Clockwise:
BB L L a s e r R e j u v en a t i o n
I n j e c t a b l e s ( B o t o x , D y s p o r t , F il l e r s )
R F M i c r on ee dli n g f o r s k i n t ig h t e n i n g
L ux u r y F a c i a l
D r Ya z d a n i i n c on s u l t a t i o n w i t h a c l i e n t
DESERVE BEAUTIFUL, GLOWING SKIN .
B o u t i q u e S k i n P r o d u c t S h o w r o o m F R O M P E R SO NA L I Z E D F A CI A L S T O S URGI C A L P R O C E D U R E S , W E C A N
P“It’s a shame that we feel we must keep pushing back the hands of time on ourselves instead of treasuring who we are today,”
BRENDA ACKERMAN
ositive reader feedback is always a welcome thing. (But we also appreciate less positive feedback taken as constructive criticism.) This was the first line of an email I received from an enthusiastic reader: Jill, I recently had the pleasure of reading your insightful editorial on “Aging” in the May/June edition of Lifestyle. Your perspectives on aging and the strength and independence of women deeply resonated with me. Brenda Ackerman had some insightful things to say about how Lifestyle melds topics of interest to our readership and the community.
She also used it as a jumping off point to introduce me to her book Aging Sucks But You’re Gonna Love It! This local writer reflects her feelings on lessons learned during her lifetime, from young womanhood to a retired professional female. She celebrates the fun and funny aspects of getting older, as well as the difficult and unpleasant ones.
As someone who has passed the big six-oh and is privileged to write on subjects about and of interest to others who have passed that threshold, I feel like there’s a wave of growing awareness: we should stop hiding and being ashamed of lines, wrinkles, grey hair and creaking joints.
One might think that this could be attributed to the Law of Attention, wherein one becomes more aware of certain things in direct relation to their relevance to the person’s life. Example: you buy a white car and suddenly there are white cars everywhere, so you can’t find yours in a parking lot.
However, I’ve been listening to, watching and reading more from and about “older” women. For instance, Julia Louis-Dreyfus has a fairly new podcast called Wiser Than Me. The 63-year-old star interviews other celebrities who are older — therefore wiser, in her
books — like Jane Fonda, Sally Field, Gloria Steinem and Julie Andrews. Listening to the flow of information and insight is like sipping cold water on a sultry day, so very refreshing in this youth-focused culture.
Another favourite podcast comes from our own Lisa Brandt (she wrote our story on page 22) and her colleague Erin Davis; it’s called Gracefully and Frankly. This one covers topics related to mature women but also jumps into all sorts of societal and, sometimes, political subjects. Listening to it seems like overhearing a couple of friends chatting at a coffee shop.
The TV series from which this podcast draws inspiration for its name allowed us to both laugh and commiserate with a couple of women in their 80s. Watching Grace and Frankie was the first time I could remember seeing octogenarians recognized as sexy and sexual beings, fulfilling life roles other than that of grandmothers or to-be-pitied damsels in distress.
Seeing Helen Mirren, looking damn good, take her place in a band of wily good guys and show off her skills with a gatling gun as a retired CIA agent was so very enjoyable in the movie RED in 2010. She was an equal among the elite group of spies who were central characters.
We definitely have come a long way baby as human beings deserving of admiration by others but, more importantly, by ourselves.
I hope you enjoy reading one of the largest ever issues of Lifestyle and that something in it empowers you to think differently about yourself and your surroundings, as you ponder renovating your home or re-organizing your priorities.
Jill Ellis-Worthington lifestyle.editor@writedoton.com
PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Chris McDonell
EDITOR
Jill Ellis-Worthington
WRITERS
Derek Botten
Lisa Brandt
Jill Ellis-Worthington
Sue Gordon
Bryan Lavery
Lois Quail
Sue Sutherland-Wood
Janis Wallace
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Jane Antoniak 519-719-9366 je.antoniak@sympatico.ca
Annette Gent 519-200-0283
annettegent537@gmail.com
Lorraine Lukings 519-520-7676 lorrainelukings@hotmail.com
Jan McGrath 519-243-2932 jm@lambtonshores.com
ART DIRECTION, EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN
Wendy Reid
AD DESIGN
Bill McGrath
PRODUCTION
Wendy Reid
PHOTOGRAPHY
BAIN IMAGES
Richard Bain
Jesse Bellringer
WEBSITE
Redding Design Inc. reddingdesigns.com
Lifestyle is published six times a year. Copies are distributed through magazine stands and local businesses in London and surrounding area.
No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited material. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada
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‘806’ is a stunning example of a meticulously restored Old North residence. This extraordinary property offers an impressive 4,700 square feet of living space. With 5 beds and 4.5 baths, this home is perfect for a growing family, with luxury. The home boasts a wealth of elegant details, that enhances the home’s charm and energy efficiency. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, blending solid wood, marble and appliances to create a space that is both functional and beautiful. The primary and guest bedrooms are exquisite. Outside, the property continues to impress with its lush gardens, natural stone patios, walkways, and copper eavestroughs, all expertly designed to complement the home’s historic aesthetic. A unique masterpiece, ‘806’ integrates timeless design with modern comfort, making it a must-see for anyone looking for a luxurious and well-crafted home.
It’s important to have in-home consultations with clients to assess their window-covering needs, space and technology, says Janice Brock, co-owner with Wes Petch, of Custom Shades of London and Custom Covers in Exeter. “We need to determine what a client wants with respect to privacy, sun control, light absorption, energy efficiency and any other expectations,” she says. “We bring sample books, so they can choose colours based on natural light at the location and see what will complement their décor and meet their budget.”
Janice says it’s important to check measurements at each site before an order is finalized and to test the strength of homeowner’s WIFI signal to ensure it can handle the smart automation.
“We want to be certain every client is comfortable with how each window covering operates.”
Custom Covers in Exeter is in its 20th year of business and customer loyalty has only been growing, Janice says.
With Custom Shades of London’s opening in 2020 on Fanshawe Park Road, more people are now learning about the quality offered by Janice, Wes and their team. “We receive a lot of referrals because of our service and our reputation. It’s nice to know that people appreciate the extra steps we take to ensure every client is happy with the results. It’s rewarding to see clients return.”
Both locations partner with Hunter Douglas for products and training of employees. “Hunter Douglas has designated us as gallery stores, meaning you can see, touch and compare products and features first-hand,” Janice says. Customers have many fabric samples to choose from, and the retail space offers accent pieces, towels, bedding and
“We want to be certain every client is comfortable with how each window covering operates.”
rugs. “There are a lot of beautiful décor products on site,” she says.
The public can also contact either Customs Covers or Custom Shades of London for repair needs. “Installers can update any window treatment, as long as we can obtain parts.” •
TOP and ABOVE Both Custom Covers and Custom Shades partner with Hunter Douglas for products and training of employees. LEFT Janice Brock and Wes Petch, co-owners, value onsite consultation with clients.
Shades
1422 Fanshawe Park Road West 519-601-4443 customshadesoflondon.ca
Covers
415 Main Street, Exeter 519-235-2444
customcoversontario.ca
BY JANIS WALLACE
Step inside and move around in the space. Photos can show the beauty of a room, but not a sense of how it functions and feels. Seeing first hand what five builders have wrought will tell the tale. They’ll be letting you inside their renovation projects during the 34th LHBA Parade of Renovations September 29.
“We’re very excited to share 10 amazing renovation projects, including kitchens, full homes, an outdoor living area transformation and more,” says Amanda Moss, director of membership and communications, London Home Builders’ Association. “Attending the parade is a fantastic way to speak directly to some of LHBA’s RenoMark renovators, get expert advice and find inspiration and ideas for future renovations.”
She’s not alone in this opinion. “Go on the tour,” says Mark Vaandering, sales and design for CLAY Design, Construction & Cabinetry. “You can take a pretty picture and put it in a marketing piece, but to see it, touch it, feel it, understand the space — you don’t get the full impact. The little details are significant — how the threshold is finished between tile and hardwood, for example. Stand in the space. See what we do. Get a first-hand opportunity to meet the people who worked on the home.”
If you are considering a reno, list your priorities and goals. “Be open to suggestions,” says Vaandering. “Be open to different design elements. It may cost a bit more to get there, but you’ll be happy with what you get; you’ll get what you want. A lot of it is listening. Trust the process. Trust the designer — we try to do the best for clients.”
During the tour, visitors will see repeated goals: more space, more light, more storage, keeping or adding character. They will see how challenges were resolved.
Trends in kitchen design are closely followed: statement kitchens that are unique and personalized through backsplashes, creative storage, open shelving and mixed material countertops. Wood finishes, panelled appliances and refrigerators that work hard and look good are also on the list — and on the parade.
The Parade of Renovations showcases 10 projects by RenoMark renovators. RenoMark identifies builders who agree to a code of conduct and code of ethics and understand the value of customer service.
1. Improve function while retaining character. 2. Turn a small kitchen into open concept with today’s amenities. 3. Add better access from the back (used as the main entry) and to the basement, with mudroom and bathroom.
“The house is circa 1908, and I wanted to keep the original window in the kitchen,” says owner Fred Godbolt. The cabinet layout was designed around it, building a bench below the window.
Shaker-style fronts, a mitred-quartz countertop on the island and subwaytiled backsplash reflect the historic charm. A section of cabinets evokes a hutch. “The kitchen looks like it’s been here since the beginning,” says designer Monique Soetemans.
Refurbished pocket doors were reused in the basement, which was excavated to allow for a gym, full bath and large egress window. The egg and dart details of the newel post were restored and
• Large, multi-purpose islands.
• Butlers’ pantries.
• Spa-like bathrooms: stand-alone tubs, premium finishes.
• Cutting-edge technology: almost every home includes intelligent thermostats; many have automated security features and SMART appliances.
• Multi-purpose spaces: open floor plans and flexible room designs. Houses once consisted of a collection of walled-off rooms. Now, people want to be able to see and move through spaces simultaneously. When renovating, that means thinking about how it flows, and how the colours work, says Vaandering. Continuity is important: consistent flooring, complementary colours, textures and surfaces.
• Indoor/outdoor blend: biophilic means including natural elements, such as plants, light and organic materials to improve physical and mental health.
• Ceiling details: architectural elements, painted, panelled, wallpapered.
• Natural, earthy palettes: soft tones of warm greys, muted greens and earthy browns create a calming and timeless feel, as well as a versatile background for furniture, art and décor.
• Clutter-gone: small appliances hidden.
• Character: unique and personalized spaces.
much of the original trim was reused.
“The biggest thing was maintaining the character of the home,” says Soetemans.
“The renderings made it come alive,” says Godbolt. The unseen parts were also important: added insulation and new HVAC.
Large islands • Butlers’ pantries
Spa-like bathrooms
Cutting-edge technology
Multi-purpose spaces
Biophilic design
No kitchen clutter
Character emphasized
Personalized spaces — Godbolt enjoys cooking and entertaining. “It functions very well. The dining area has a bar with two fridges and a sink. I like that it’s open. It’s easy to have somebody in the kitchen with you.” The kitchen refrigerator features three drawers, including a flex drawer (option to be a fridge or freezer compartment).
Character — The addition mimics the original trim, including window casings made to look like transoms. Custom millwork on the range hood and restored fireplace create vintage appeal. Owner favourite: “I like the wall at the back. The natural light comes in.”
1. Add more light and bring in the views. The house backs on Medway Woods and at the front, a garden terrace takes the spotlight. 2. Update a mid-century house to today’s standards. 3. Maintain separation between the kitchen and living room.
“We stripped everything; reinsulated everything,” says Peder Madsen, CCR. “All new windows, doors, drywall, lighting, electrical and plumbing.”
“We create a remodel roadmap,” says Madsen. “Phase one is budget and timeline. Phase two is concept development when we explore opportunities and ideas, polish them and deliver the design. Phase three is project development, with
permits, materials, dotting the Is and crossing the Ts. It’s a good collaboration.”
According to the owner, “We could not have done this without the designer Monique (Soetemans) taking what was in my head and making it far surpass my expectations.”
Technology — The home includes security, lighting and window covering controls, as well as Wi-Fi connected appliances.
Statement kitchen — Walnut features add a luxe element on the bulkhead, range hood, fridge panels and display shelves on the island. Built-in coffee maker, combination microwave/convection oven, touch faucet and pull-out dishwasher drawers personalize the kitchen.
Flex space — The family room doubles as an office with a floating desk. The original fireplace was reclad in leather tile.
Spa bath — Heated floors (herringbone tiles) and a light below the vanity cabinets, walk-in shower, double vanity and a walk-through closet all add flair and function.
1. Update 1990s house. 2. Make space more cohesive.
“The house was 24 years old and ready for an update. The owners knew they weren’t happy, but didn’t know where to go with it,” says Mark Vaandering, CLAY dcc.
“We started with a list of like and not like,” says Vaandering. “Defined their expectations and came up with a plan.”
In the previous layout, guests entered through the garage into a small entry and laundry. He says there was a small pantry, and the kitchen was “tucked around the corner from the great room. The dining room was not connected or welcoming. We moved the kitchen closer.”
When planning the kitchen, consider how to organize drawers and heights of small appliances, so they can be accommodated in the cabinets.
The owners didn’t want a tub, so that space was taken for a separate mudroom/laundry.
“There is a real sense of flow,” he says. The meeting point of addition and old house isn’t obvious.
Storage — “People want bigger pantries and a spot to tuck things away,” says Vaandering. “There are pull-outs everywhere.”
Personalized — The kitchen features a coffee station and walk-in pantry. Divided into zones, for food preparation, cooking and hot and cold storage adds functionality. Placing the sink in the island lets the cook face guests. “Big islands really changed how people use kitchens,” says Vaandering. “They are the primary space for prep and clean-up.”
1. Improve function. 2. Add light. 3. Maintain traditional style.
“When we moved in, we could see what it could be,” says owner Kristen Brodie. “It had good structure and we wanted to bring it to life.”
“It needed to get it out of the ‘70s,” says Craig Hardy, CLAY dcc.
“The kitchen felt small and not super functional,” says Brodie. CLAY designer Leah Turner agrees: “There was a lot of wasted space.”
The formal, dark dining room was converted to an office for Erik Brodie. This allowed the entry to the kitchen to be modified. “It makes the kitchen more symmetrical,” says Turner. The showstopper is the black leathered quartz countertop.
The main ensuite was reconfigured,
eliminating a door to the patio, glass block window and two showers.
Consistency — Original hardwood was matched in the back room and tile and woods are repeated. New windows in the kitchen match originals. Trim and dentil mouldings are repeated from the original.
Statement kitchen — A wet bar, vertical racks close to the stove, an appliance garage with power outlet, rollout shelves in the pantry and a dedicated drawer for plates and containers address the kitchen’s functionality. One side of the island stores glassware, so guests can grab a drink without entering the workspace. Custom brass caps highlight the island legs.
Mixed materials — “We mixed metals with polished nickel and brass in the one bath and polished nickel and black hardware in the main ensuite,” says Turner.
Spa bath — A steam shower with hidden digital dial keeps the ensuite clean looking. “It’s functional, and it feels luxurious,” says Brodie.
1. Expand indoor space. 2. Improve function. 3. Add storage.
“We spent a lot of time thinking it through, getting the kitchen right and creating a space that gave them what they wanted,” says Mark Vaandering, CLAY dcc. “The home flexes when they entertain.”
“The living room was small,” says owner Mary Lou Stephenson. “It was great for two but when family came, it was tight,” agrees Sam Stephenson. “We had the lot size to push it back. You can’t tell where the old house ended.”
“We asked for a large island,” he says. “We wanted the kitchen to be an entertaining space. By having it in the middle, it really is the heart of the home.”
The laundry was brought upstairs in a new space off the great room, adding storage, folding area and a rack above the sink. The old deck was replaced by one to the side of the addition. From the living room, Mary Lou says it is “nice to look out to the yard.”
A cathedral ceiling allowed for larger windows. From outside, the roofline goes up from front to the back.
Creative storage — The end of the island includes storage and there are dedicated places for small appliances.
Personalized — A beverage centre beside the kitchen keeps people in the action but out of the workspace. “Everybody’s in the kitchen,” says Sam. “They sit and stand around the island.
1. Improve back entry. 2. Maintain Arts and Crafts style.
“The house was built in the 1920s,” says Craig Hardy, CLAY dcc. “The design is based on the Motawi fireplace surround tiles. We made the mantel.”
Starting with those tiles, the owners chose a variety of bird and animal themes for the kitchen tiles. “They are hand-crafted,” says designer Leah Turner. It took a lot of planning for the right placement.
Face-frame cabinet doors continue the Arts and Crafts look. She says it was a challenge to match the original chestnut trim because the wood is no longer available. “The next best was grey elm, as it has a similar grain and takes stain.” CLAY’s cabinetmakers matched the style
with grain-matched panels and some glass-fronted uppers. “The woodshop had a lot of fun going back to traditional techniques,” says Hardy. They also made matching baseboards.
Adding traditional three-over-one windows brightened the space. The back stair and glass door add more light.
Surface materials — Countertops are Dekton, a heat- and stain-resistant material.
Function — While small, the kitchen remodel changed its storage and usability, says Hardy. The pantry is outfitted with pull-out storage.
Statement range hood — “It’s becoming more and more [frequent that] the hood is either not noticeable or a statement,” says Hardy. “They wanted it to be gorgeous but not stick out.”
Wood cabinetry — Moving away from white kitchens to wood is a growing
trend. “We have it in our showroom. Clients see it, touch it and know what’s possible,” says Hardy.
1. More space — doubled the square footage. 2. Update 1980s exterior.
3. Create Arts and Crafts character.
“The clients had a great concept,” says DUO designer Shreya Sharma. “They wanted to play with shades of grey.” To give the dated exterior more presence, varying elevation levels were created for the façade. The compartmentalized interior was opened up. The principal bedroom is a masterpiece.”
Statement kitchen — A multi-purpose
island, coffee bar and wine storage create an ideal entertaining space.
“Everything is well organized,” says Keelan Malloy, DUO.
Character — Custom millwork and built-ins provide hand-crafted features. Mullioned windows add charm.
Indoor/outdoor — Large windows overlook the patio and outdoor kitchen.
“The window is level with the interior sink, and it feels like part of the outside,” says Sharma.
Ceiling details — The great room showcases the stone fireplace with a vaulted shiplap and beamed ceiling. The living room’s lower coffered ceiling, with shiplap inserts, makes it cozy.
Personalized — A large walk-in primary closet has room for an island. The bedroom has a reading nook tucked under the eaves.
Spa bath — Shiplap on the walls. Tile is laid in a chevron pattern. The
We’re very excited to share 10 amazing renovation projects, including kitchens, full homes, an outdoor living area transformation and more.”
alone tub sits against a wood feature wall. Heated towel rack and floors, as well as a self-cleaning toilet make it a true retreat.
rsclondon.com
1. Add light. 2. Improve layout. 3. Retain traditional details.
“We both work from home,” says Heather Pilkington. “This house had enough space for two offices and bedrooms for adult children when they come.”
PROCESS
“It was a full renovation of the main floor,” says Greg Hassall, Riverside Construction. “We touched every surface in the house.”
Adding three large skylights in the family room, as well as sun tunnels in
the hall and mudroom, met the biggest requirement of adding light. Widening the entry to the dining room also brought in light. Opening the stairway provides better access to the garage with a mudroom. The old garage entry is now a closet.
The impressive fireplace/television is a backdrop for art. A two-piece bathroom was reconfigured. Two small bedrooms were merged as the principal bedroom and ensuite.
Kitchen cabinets were refinished and the counters topped with quartz. The fridge was panelled, and brass handles were added.
An office off the entry is given texture with grasscloth wallpaper.
TRENDS
Large multi-purpose island — The eat-in island is topped with quartz.
Spa bath — The main ensuite features a walk-in curbless shower. Soft turquoise
GOALS
1. Add space. 2. Modernize. 3. Maintain character.
“It is a 1920s, one and three-quarter storey house,” says homeowner and Riverside builder Greg Hassall.
PROCESS
“We needed more space,” says Hassall. “We doubled the square footage. We added a two-piece powder room and mudroom. We wanted to keep the character of the older home, so we kept the trim similar.”
Glass pocket doors between the kitchen and living room maintain light. New grilles (narrow strips separating panes) on double-hung windows keep the
charm, while new electrical, air conditioning and furnace meet modern standards.
The new powder room features millwork, wallpaper and brass legs on the sink.
The oversize fireplace in the addition “required careful planning to get the details right,” says Hassall.
Upstairs, a laundry was added. An office and two children’s bedrooms were updated, while the principal suite is part of the addition. Its ensuite carries through the oak theme in the vanity. Mixed black hardware and brass faucets are on trend, while the mosaic floor harkens back to the heritage of the house. “We used different products that accentuate older homes.”
Statement kitchen — The oak range hood echoes the natural oak strip flooring. Built-ins provide storage. Cabinetry was painted green/grey and given glass-fronted uppers in the bar section to “break up all the cabinetry. The kitchen came about naturally while looking at layout options. We have an eat-in island, more storage and a quartz backsplash ledge.”
Personalized — Moody black walls set the tone in the living room and highlights the original fireplace. “It was a chance to create a quiet space.”
Ceiling details — The living room ceiling repeats oak details used elsewhere and is highlighted with wallpaper inserts. “It’s the boldest statement in the house.”
& POOLS, tlc.ca
1. Replace and expand 40-year-old deck. 2. Extend living space. 3. Low maintenance planting.
“Living space — 90 per cent of our clients are looking to extend their home,” says TLC designer John Bright. “Almost 100 per cent request low maintenance plantings.”
“Looking at an exterior reno is the same as an interior reno,” says Bright. “You have the same design process; the same process with clients; their wish lists; what they envision; what we envision. Instead of the palette depending on paint colours,
modern-looking brick with a light mortar. Big, exposed beams and posts give Bill his west coast look. Rather than a traditional gabled roof, the sloped top creates the sleeker lines Laura wanted. “It’s an upscale look,” says Bright. To bring in the home’s brick colour, Bright used black fascia on the structure.
The parade is a fantastic way to speak directly to some of LHBA’s RenoMark renovators, get expert advice and find inspiration and ideas for future renovations.”
it’s made up of stone and lumber. The accents are plants instead of pillows. This yard showcases a lot of our skills, everything we can do from design to construction.”
“Last summer, TLC did the front and side,” says owner Bill Cummings. “They built staggered retaining walls of different heights and materials. The design was excellent.”
“Bill wanted big, bulky lumber with more of a B.C. look,” says Bright. “Laura preferred a clean, more modern and sleeker look. We discussed the structure and started with that to blend the two styles.”
The structure includes a fireplace in
Technology Exterior lighting is automatic.
Indoor/outdoor — Access from two levels of the house makes outdoor living easy. “The view from the kitchen is nice to wake up to,” says Cummings.
Personalized — The use of mixed materials for the walls adds interest points. “The step system mimics those materials,” says Bright. “They slow everybody down to get into the yard, with larger landings. You can stop and enjoy the view of the water feature and plantings. Then you arrive in the lower lounge space.”
Sustainability — Wanting it to last a long time dictated material choices, says Bright. Those include the stone patio and landings, as well as compositeclad lumber.
Owner favourite — “The fireplace is my favourite. I love a wood fireplace. There is a built-in chopping block at the back.” •
JANIS WALLACE has written for newspapers, magazines, scripts and social media on topics from music to dog food, fashion to décor, agriculture to gardens. She wrote a book about a theatre, a place she loves to be — in the audience or on stage.
OPPOSITE PAGE TOP RIGHT, THIS PAGE ABOVE AND INSET TLC LANDSCAPING DESIGN & POOLS.
What: 34th LHBA 2024 Parade of Renovations
When: September 29, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Map available at lhba.on.ca
Cost: Visitor wristband to all sites available at: lhba.on.ca/en
Before September 29, $10 plus HST ($11.30).
Event day at any of the homes, cash or online $13.27 plus HST ($15). A portion of every ticket sold is donated to Threads of Life, a charity run by the Association for Workplace Tragedy Family Support (threadsoflife.ca)
Aprime piece of Port Stanley real estate, which sat idle on the water’s edge for years, is now open as a year-round destination.
Riva Italian Restaurant and Port Stanley Brewing Co. have given new life to an iconic building that hearkens back to the Lake Erie town’s heyday as an international port. “The building needed a vision,” says Domus Developments’ president Mike Mescia of the former Dominion of Canada (DOC) structure. Locals worried it would decay into an eyesore as it sat empty within view of some of Port Stanley’s best features: the mouth of Kettle Creek, the venerable King George VI Lift Bridge and all types of watercraft.
The massive rectangular edifice on the west side of Port Stanley’s harbour encompasses more than 8,500 square feet. Built in 1926, it served as the Customs Office when Port Stanley was one of the top 10 ports in the world. In 2010, the federal government returned the harbour lands and DOC building to the municipality. More recently, Central Elgin council solidified a Waterfront
BY LISA BRANDT
Master Plan to make the most of Port Stanley’s enviable spot on the lakeshore. Domus’ proposal was chosen in the Request for Proposals (RFP) process.
“The original concept was a brewery with a restaurant, and the real estate is part of it. That was what brought us in. Owning the building allows us to spend all the capital to renovate it to the level that we wanted to,” explains Mescia.
Domus partnered with Wasko Developments for renovations that were initially estimated to cost $3.4 million. While they won’t reveal a specific number, it’s safe to say the expense is north of $5 million now.
As with any renovation project, unforeseen issues cropped up, which included concrete columns installed like giant rings through the building’s entire structure. It had been fortified to withstand the worst possible weather conditions. That’s great for a Government of Canada building on the shore, but not ideal for plumbing and wiring a restaurant. “Imagine trying to run underground services when every 12 feet you’ve got 16 inches of concrete,” Mescia recalls. “You can’t bore horizontally.
The floors are all polished concrete. We had to cut these big holes out so we could get down into each cavity. You’ll see squares every so often where we had to fill them back in.”
Domus has already made significant contributions to the community. They built Port Landings, a collection of detached homes, semi-detached townhomes, condominiums and an apartment building presently under construction on Compass Trail. The Riva/Port Stanley Brewing Company project marks another major investment. There’s seating for 90 inside and another 120 on the patio, where the sun-shy can dine under the 60-foot retractable awning.
The new destination also acknowledges the village’s musical past with artifacts from the legendary Stork Club that burned down in 1979. For decades, thousands flocked to the massive beachside pavilion to jitterbug and jive during the big-band era. Renovators made a remarkable discovery inside the DOC: an instrument that may have belonged to Guy Lombardo. “We found a piano from the Stork Club inside the building,” says Mescia. “It had char marks and everything. We refurbished it a little, so it won’t fall apart and put a glass top on it. We have other pictures and memorabilia from that time, too, in an area we call the Stork Lounge.”
The addition of a fireplace makes the Stork Lounge ideal for relaxing with a pint or a glass of wine, as opposed to the dining area where food is the focus. Riva and Port Stanley Brewing each have their own patio area along the water.
Designer Kristine Desnoyers-Vann of Design Matrix Inc. brought ideas that softened the hard concrete surfaces. She says the team already knew what the huge space required. “They didn’t want it to have that long, industrial feel but
“
The building needed a vision,” says Domus Developments’ president Mike Mescia of the former Dominion of Canada (DOC) structure.
wanted to maintain the history of the building and let some original elements shine. It was important to them to honour the history of Port Stanley.”
The exceptional location is amplified with large windows and garage-style doors that open onto the harbour and a mirror behind the bar to reflect the water view. “They wanted a soft, nautical feel,” explains Desnoyers-Vann, “with a hint of Italian.”
Leo Larizza oversees Riva — roughly
translated to Italian as “shore.” He is COO of West Pier District, as the area will come to be known. He’s familiar to many as the founder of the London non-profit TLC Foundation and has been in the hospitality industry for more than four decades. He says they chose an Italian menu because no one else nearby serves exclusively Italian food. And he advises lingering a while over dinner and wine. “Don’t come here to eat, come here to dine. We aren’t a chain restaurant. Everything’s made to order. It’s fresh, and it’s as local as possible.”
Mescia and Larizza make every attempt to support other local businesses. Diners need only look across the harbour to Golem Fisheries Inc. for the source of their pickerel dinner. Port Stanley’s custom furniture builder, Drift, made each of the wooden dining tables.
Chef Terrance Tew is “one of the most creative people I’ve ever worked with,” says Larizza, who counts Gordon Ramsay among his professional connections. Tew is enthusiastic about using local ingredients. Riva also boasts Pizzaiolo — pizza expert — Guisseppe Anzoini, one of only about a dozen Canadians with this certification. “We sent him to Naples, Italy for this training,” Larizza says with pride. “He’s responsible for pizza and pasta only.” Riva also offers gluten-free pasta options.
Port Stanley Brewing Co. marks the first return of a microbrewer to the village since the last one closed in 2018. Brewmaster Ian McClure comes from the award-winning Paris (Ontario) Beer Company. He is excited about aiming to have a dozen different beers on offer at any one time. “This (job) is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity. We have 12 taps. Six will be our regulars, the ones people like that they can count on being available. The other six will be more
OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Two patios offer both casual fine dining and a place to grab a glass of suds when guests come straight from the beach. • Before pictures of the building and pier prior to renovation. • Riva and the Brewery operate year-round, so cozy indoor dining is also offered. TOP LEFT The Stork Lounge pays homage to the popular Stork Club of days gone by. ABOVE RIGHT Large garage-style doors can be closed in inclement weather. LEFT The large patio affords ample opportunity to dine al fresco.
General Contractor: Domus Developments
Partner General Contractor: Wasko Developments
Designer: Kristine Desnoyers-Vann, Design Matrix Inc.
Plumbing: Atchison Plumbing and Heating
Electrical: Angton Electric
Roofing: Jeffrey Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc.
Siding: Dyck’s Construction
Concrete: Con-Wall Concrete Inc.
Kitchen millwork: Casey’s Creative Kitchens
Kitchen equipment: Haymach Canada Inc.
Custom tables: Drift The new destination also acknowledges the village’s musical past with artifacts from the legendary Stork Club that burned down in 1979.
experimental with rotating one-off batches, using different ideas and flavours.”
McClure says the brewery’s patio will be more casual than Riva’s, where thirsty patrons coming from the beach can stay in their bathing suits to enjoy a cold one and a snack. “We’re right on the water. And to have Riva right beside us, that’s a little more elevated than some other places — I think people enjoy supporting local when they visit.”
Mescia agrees that microbreweries are tourist destinations. He says it’s about more than just the beer. “It’s also the vibe.
You can interact with people working there, and it just makes it more personal.”
A quick beer or a leisurely dinner, fresh from the beach or before a show at Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Riva and Port Stanley Brewing Co. offer additional reasons to take a drive to the Lake Erie shore. •
LISA BRANDT is a freelance writer, voice-over professional, podcaster and author of five books. You can find her at voiceoflisabrandt.com . She lives in Port Stanley with her husband and their supervisor, a senior cat named Cuddles.
Casey’s Creative Kitchens is now a one-stop shop
The recent acquisition of a St. Thomas custom kitchen and cabinet company means Casey’s Creative Kitchens no longer must outsource its cabinetry work. Casey’s owner and president Chris Willemse says the sale has just recently been announced, and the excitement is building. “The thought of us being able to manufacture our own cabinetry is just a dream come true,” says Chris. “This is what we’ve wanted to be able to do.”
GCW, established in 1999, has an 82,000-square foot manufacturing plant and 120 employees, who will continue to work for Casey’s. “This company was at the top of our list to approach about a purchase, as their facility is state of the art. They invested in technology, and we knew that their product was superior to other manufacturers we had seen,” Chris says. “We’ve always admired GCW, and we loved that they manufactured their own cabinetry. This also allows us to start to focus on the new home construction industry.”
It was a bonus that GCW is St. Thomas-based, because that is the city where it all began in 1978 for Casey’s Creative Kitchens, which now has seven showrooms. “That connection felt really, really good to us.” With Casey’s 8,000-square foot stone fabrication facility, Chris says they now have full control of the renovation process from start to finish.
In May, Casey’s Creative Kitchens also opened a new design gallery. Located in Unit 5 at 57 York Street in London, the gallery is in partnership with Scherba and Co. It allows homeowners to browse everything from custom cabinetry to lighting to exquisite stonework and furniture,
The thought of us being able to manufacture our own cabinetry is just a dream come true.” “
Chris says. “We’ve also always wanted to have a downtown presence. We love the idea of a one-stop shop where people can go in and put all their ideas together and see the options under one roof. It’s convenient.” He says customers will be inspired when they step into the gallery. “It’s a great space. We love the atmosphere and the aesthetics, with the older brick and beams and the new products. It’s really an impactful space.” •
Casey’s Creative Kitchens has acquired GCW and will retain all of its 120 employees, enabling the company to serve as a one-stop shop for homeowners renovating kitchens, as well as supplying cabinetry to builders of new homes.
Casey’s Creative Kitchens
95 South Edgeware Rd., St. Thomas, 519-631-0401 caseyskitchens.com
Living at Riverstone Retirement Residence by Sifton Properties means joining a vibrant, walkable community, with shopping and the beauty of nature all within a few steps. Located in the sustainable, solar-powered community of West 5, Riverstone offers a retirement lifestyle that’s as active and as social as its resident’s desire.
With fitness classes, trivia, movie nights, adventurous outings and live music in the bar and lounge, life at Riverstone offers something for everyone. In addition, residents have convenient access to nearby food, fashion, optometry, audiology and even pet care services within the West 5 community. Riverstone also includes a beautiful salon, offering hair care and esthetic services.
The residence at Riverstone offers independent, all-inclusive living, with extra care and support when needed. Private, personalized suites and studios include housekeeping services and the gorgeous rooftop restaurant-style dining room serves three healthy meals daily. Sheri Lynn Koenig, Riverstone’s general manager, says it’s more than just a place to live — it’s home. “It’s the safety and security of a beautiful new space you can call your own, where care and connection join together. It’s the joy of living each day to the fullest and finding the perfect spot to house your favourite treasures. Our residents and team members become family and a shared sense of home flourishes within our community.”
Residents appreciate nature at Legacy Square, a beautifully landscaped park at the heart of West 5, with walking paths and benches. There are other inviting trails nearby for those who wish to explore even further.
It’s the safety and security of a beautiful new space you can call your own, where care and connection join together.” “
Curious retirees are welcome to visit Riverstone for a special event and a private tour. It’s an opportunity to meet other residents and the caring staff and get a glimpse at the ultimate retirement lifestyle. •
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Home is where the heart is. There is no truism more fundamental to this magazine than that simple sentence. We celebrate the home and all it represents in every issue because our home is literally a cornerstone in our life and our lifestyle. Yet as we grow — as individuals, as a family, as a community — our needs change and our dreams change. And so does our home.
Seeking more beauty, functionality, efficiency, safety, joy and countless other considerations are all valid reasons to invest in change. The following pages profile professional specialists who can help ensure your home reflects your vision for how you want to live your life. It should always be good to be home.
Kevin Fellner, president of Covers Designers’ Edge, says early consultation when building or renovating a home is crucial to avoiding problems with coverings for large and high windows later. “Architects, builders and developers are favouring these openings, including two-level great rooms with massive windows. Little thought is given to how people are going to control light, sun and privacy,” he says. “It looks great but then the functionality becomes a problem.”
He says it’s necessary to plan how window coverings will operate. “We like to pre-wire for motorization during construction. The window covering industry is pushing for motorization with rechargeable batteries.” While batteries are fine for smaller, reachable openings,
“Little thought is given to how people are going to control light, sun and privacy.”
they are impractical for large windows. Kevin’s team can provide tandem or banded shades, which operate multiple shades with a single motor. He says this is the practical route.
Windows are often installed on the
second level of an open-concept design, he says. “It requires scaffolding or lifts for installation, and if you’re trying to come in at the 11th hour, it becomes impractical at that point.”
Covers Designers’ Edge has solutions for homeowners who find they need help with window coverings post construction. “We always try to find answers for customers at that point, but there may have to be compromises. It’s so critical to engage with us early.” •
When it comes to designing a kitchen renovation, it’s tempting to follow the latest trends and incorporate them into the remodel. Amber Light Custom Cabinetry and Yvonne McLeod Interior Design can help ensure kitchens are modern and fashionable while avoiding the pitfall of having your space become outdated over time.
“It’s important to remember that trends come and go. It’s wise to avoid blindly following them when planning a renovation, as you may find yourself regretting the investment you made,” Yvonne says. “Instead, focus on timeless design elements that will stand the test of time.”
Designing a kitchen is an opportunity to add value to your home and create a space that reflects your taste and life -
“Instead of conforming to the latest trends, consider incorporating elements that are meaningful to you and that you genuinely love.”
style, she says. “Instead of conforming to the latest trends, consider incorporating elements that are meaningful to you and that you genuinely love.”
As a designer, Yvonne is a proponent
of using more expensive pieces as a backdrop to showcase a client’s own personal style. “Decorative accents are the better way to lean into trends as these items are much easier to change over time,” she says. Art, area rugs and colourful accents are examples of where to spend money to incorporate modern styles. “By avoiding fads, you can create a kitchen that is timeless and classic, ensuring that it remains stylish and relevant for years to come.” •
Marrying tradition with convenience
Aheritage home renovation may sound like a daunting undertaking to homeowners. However, Adam Mackowiak, owner of Quantum Verdi, says the key to success is to work with professionals on a plan that ensures the charm of an older home remains intact no matter how extensive the makeover. “An older home holds its own slice of Canadian history. The goal is to celebrate the unique aesthetic of the dwelling and our city’s past,” says Adam.
He says his team of experts at the Quantum Verdi lifestyle store and design studio can ensure clients have all the conveniences of today’s world without losing the authenticity of their heritage home. “The house should remain timeless, yet feel modern.”
Adam says it’s important to keep as
“An older home holds its own slice of history. The goal is to celebrate the unique aesthetic of the dwelling.”
much original material as possible, as this is what makes the home unique. But the owners can i ncorporate some new elements with an interesting twist to reflect their personal style, while adding the latest amenities. “This shows both respect
to the home and allows for modern-day conveniences and comforts.”
Quantum Verdi designers will work with clients, from start to finish, on a vision for a room or the entire house that is unique and comfortable.
The retail store offers home furnishings and décor accents to complement any design and ensure every room shines with classic elegance. •
Riverside Construction owner
Greg Hassall says there are many ways to ensure a century home renovation retains its timeless character. “When people approach us, they want to keep the features of the older homes, but they want a contemporary design.” He says older houses may need some TLC, but renovation challenges are worth overcoming as these homes always stand apart. “Talented craftsman built these houses, and we have an appreciation for their work.”
Many older homes have oak plank flooring and narrow strip boards, he says. Sometimes refinishing them works well, but they can also be replaced with a raw wood product and then sanded and stained. “We can
recreate what the flooring originally looked like.”
Trim is also important, Greg says. “We have worked on many jobs in older neighbourhoods where we can fabricate the trim on site.”
Riverside can enhance the windows and door casings, recreating the craftsman’s style with the archways of original homes. Face frame cabinets and modified shaker doors can also elevate the house’s style, he says. “All these elements provide a classic and timeless feel.”
Hassall also enjoys working in what he calls bonus areas on the third floors of the houses he is working on. “We’ve had opportunities to create a bedroom in attics. Few homes these days have these cool kinds of spaces.” •
“Talented craftsman built these houses, and we have an appreciation for their work.”
Compass Point, a 52-unit condominium development, is ready for you at Domus Developments’ Port Stanley Landings. “We are happy to say the development is built out with only six units remaining [at time of writing] and the pool has just opened,” says project developer Mike Mescia.
The homes are themed with deep contrasting colours and materials, echoing the village’s lakeside character. Standard features include vaulted ceilings and gas fireplaces in the great rooms, tray ceilings in the primary bedrooms and oversized rear windows with transoms. These custom details provide an ambiance of spaciousness and graciousness.
Kitchens come with solid surface counters and custom cabinets in a
The homes are themed with deep contrasting colours and materials, echoing the village’s lakeside character.
selection of styles and finishes. Main bathrooms have soaker tubs, and primary bedroom ensuites have custom tile walk-in showers.
Interiors feature engineered hardwood flooring, carpeting in bedrooms and porcelain tile in the foyer, kitchen, dining room and bathrooms. Lower levels, including roughed-in bathrooms and full-size windows, may be finished as an upgrade.
Exteriors feature stone on the front and a three-foot stone ledge with Hardie Board horizontal siding around the side and rear. Homeowners enjoy covered front porches and rear paving-stone patios.
Landings is nestled in the northeast sector of this Lake Erie village, on East Street south of Dexter Line. •
Completing the perfect home renovation starts and ends with top-notch customer service, says the couple behind Cara Design & Build. Stefano and Jacqueline Caranci have established a reputation for working closely with clients and answering every question along the way. “With each step of a design and renovation project, we focus on building trust, always using ethical practices and ensuring the clients have access to us from start to finish,” says Jacqueline.
The husband-and-wife team has been offering full-service boutique home designs and renovations to homeowners in London and the surrounding
“With each step of a design and renovation project, we focus on building trust.”
We make custom builds and renovations simple! We focus on high-end quality finishes, superior craftsmanship and customer service to ensure every project is organized and stress free. Let us create the home of your dreams!
area since 2016. Prior to that, Stefano and Jacqueline were in business as FLIP London, renovating and reselling homes and building partnerships along the way with some of the city’s top tradespeople and suppliers. Jacqueline says having these partnerships means that clients benefit, including having some access to exclusive savings. “We have mastered the ins and outs of the design process, and we assist in sourcing all
materials and trades, and we oversee the project through to completion,” she says.
The couple’s high-quality, functional and transitional designs enable clients to enjoy their homes for years to come, says Jacqueline. Cara Design & Build has an extensive online portfolio to showcase their work to potential customers. They also offer a virtual design process for their DIY clients who want a designer’s touch for their projects. •
Being of service in St. Thomas
Since summer, St. Thomas has been buzzing with the news that Doug Tarry Ltd. (DTL) reached an agreement on a land deal with the Elgin County Railway Museum to revitalize the downtown.
Suzie Dennis, vice-president of sales, marketing and community engagement for Doug Tarry Homes, says the project was the vision of president Doug Tarry Jr. and his love for the community. “He always talks about his father who said, ‘Leave the campsite better than you found it.’ He follows that advice, and he wants to do more for St. Thomas.”
DTL purchased eight acres of previously developed land, and the site will be turned into a residential area, walkable district and gathering place, as well as support other commercial and community
The remediation of the land will take some time, Suzie says, but the project will enhance the whole city. A
opportunities. The remediation of the land will take some time, Suzie says, but the project will enhance the whole city.
“It’s going to be amazing, and we are so excited about the plans.”
More than $36,000 was donated to the railway museum to ensure a sustainable future. Lord Cultural, a company that offers cultural sector planning, will lend its expertise to the museum.
Suzie says there will be ongoing collaboration between DTL and the museum throughout the project, adding that Doug Tarry Homes, founded in 1954, continues to prove not only its excellence in homebuilding, but its strong community ties. •
Wed - Fri 11:00am - 5:00pm
Providing a seamless experience
London design and renovation company CLAY is using a new project management system and other technologies to make it easier and quicker for homeowners to see the results they’ve been dreaming about, says Bonnie Hardy, one of the company’s owners.
CLAY is a unification of Covenant Construction , McKaskell Haindl Design Build and Millennium Construction & Design. T his amalgamation gives clients access to a team of approximately 50 professionals with experience in home design, construction and cabinetry. “We have accomplished leaders sharing their talents and knowledge in all areas to make a project seamless,” says Bonnie.
She says new software tracks all phases of a project, which brings clarity to schedules for staff and clients. It also helps ensure the best allocation of resources for all jobs.
“Clients know that the designers are available all the way through the project. Also, our tradespeople, such as the lead carpenter, can spend more time onsite. This builds relationships.”
Bonnie adds that the ability to use these tools allows team members to focus on doing what they love.
“We have so much flexibility and can see a plan out 18 months in advance, not just the piece of the project at hand. It enables designers to focus on the vision they are creating with the client.” •
CLAY is a unification of Covenant Construction, McKaskell Haindl Design Build and Millennium Construction & Design
Three industry leaders, now housed together under one roof.
BY DEREK BOTTEN
To have a vehicle is to have tires. They are what is between us and the road. One-hundred square inches of rubber under constant stress will wear over time, and that means our tires eventually will need replacing. For some people, this can be a major purchase as new tires average about $800.00 per set, so we should learn a few things about tires before we need to buy more.
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Doug Box, manager at Maple City Tire, says that some of the more inexpensive offshore brands actually frighten him. He says that they may well conform to applicable standards in the place they were made but, “when we need to balance an offshore tire of a lesser brand, it [sometimes] takes so much more effort to balance the tire. When I see a tire that takes seven, eight or nine ounces [of weight to balance] … it can’t be a good tire because it isn’t built properly.”
Jordan Nash, of OK Tire London Thames, suggests that it’s like comparing a real Rolex watch to a knockoff. He says they may look the same, but they aren’t made the same. “The difference is more in the compound that makes up the tire.”
It used to be that when fall came around, we would have a pair of snow tires installed and that would be that. These days, the choices can make your head spin. In addition to “snow” tires, you will find “M+S” (mud and snow), “all-season” and “all-weather” options. The upside is
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Doug Box, manager at Maple City Tire says, that some of the more inexpensive offshore brands actually frighten him.
that you can tailor your purchase to your own specific needs.
In our climate, North American allseason tires are actually three-season tires. They are meant to be replaced with proper winter/snow tires when the snow flies and it gets cold outside.
All-weather tires basically perform the same as all-season tires on dry and wet roads, but they also work well in the cold months. “This segment of tire is a new one,” said Box. “It’s starting to become more popular. We’re seeing more people that say, ‘Oh you know what, I don’t drive that much, and if it’s snowing out, I don’t go out.’ So they can get through the winter [without snow tires], and people won’t have to store their winter tires.”
“An all-weather tire is a lot better than a summer tire in the winter,” agrees Nash, but he has reservations. “I do
recommend winter tires because they will actually stick to the ground, versus the all-season, [when] you’d just be sliding. All-weather does have a snowflake patch on it, so it can go down to negative seven degrees. Realistically. all-season is mainly for the rain and the sun.”
It appears that any choice you make will have compromises. It boils down to how the properties of each line of tires align with your usage.
TREAD PATTERN – A deeper, more aggressive tread works better in deep snow, but they are noisier on pavement and adversely affect mileage.
RUBBER COMPOUND – The type of rubber compound makes a difference in how the tires grip the road surface in hot and cold temperatures.
TIRE WEAR – A softer compound will provide better grip but will wear more quickly.
FUEL SAVINGS – A harder compound can give you better gas mileage.
PERFORMANCE – A softer compound will help your vehicle stick to the road in acceleration and cornering modes.
SAFETY – A harder compound can make tires slide , instead of grip, when stopping or in evasive maneuvers.
VALUE – Depending on the climate, if you find that the all-weather tire will get you through the winter, then there may be no need for an additional set that needs to be seasonally changed and stored.
Agreeing with the premise of compromise, Box adds, “You can’t have your cake and eat it too. You can’t have a softer compound tire that works on a cold road and get mileage out of it.”
Tire experts agree that there are perfectly good reasons for the wide variety of type and price of tires on the market.
It’s up to us to be informed about what we want from our tire choices next time we are in the market.
Depending on your preference and driving style, premium or performance tires may be worth the additional expense. “Choosing performance tires over less expensive options offers several distinct benefits, like enhanced handling, improved braking and better traction to name a few,” notes Andrew Ziegler, assistant parts manager at Lexus of London. “While performance tires come with these benefits, they may have a shorter lifespan compared to general-purpose tires due to their softer rubber compounds. However, for those who prioritize driving performance and safety, the advantages of performance tires can justify the higher cost.”
This is an indication that the tires are filled with nitrogen gas, as opposed to just compressed air. Would it surprise you to know that most commercial and military vehicles —as well as professional racing series like Indy Car, NASCAR and Formula 1 — use nitrogen?
I wondered if this was a frivolous waste of money for us regular folks or if it was worth considering. I asked Box his opinion: Is there an advantage to using nitrogen in passenger vehicles? It turns out, he’s not really a fan. He explained that when manufacturers started delivering more cars with aluminum and alloy rims, they were more prone to leaking air pressure than steel wheels. Somebody came up
with the idea that nitrogen might solve the problem. “Nitrogen is a larger molecule, so it’s less likely to leak than a regular air molecule,” explained Box. “If there’s a problem and you’re losing nitrogen, there’s a bigger issue because it’s a rim leak or a nail or something in your tire.”
Nitrogen is more stable than regular air and keeps its pressure better in hot and cold weather extremes. On the other hand, it costs money to get tires filled with nitrogen. Once again, it boils down to your choice and specific driving conditions.
Most newer vehicles now have a tire pressure monitoring system that will indicate on the dash if inflation in any tire is lower than recommended. For older vehicles, Nash suggests that the tire pressure be checked at least every time you change the oil.
He also believes that there is a market for cheaper tires. He says if he only plans to drive his older car for a couple of years in regular conditions, he’s fine buying a cheaper line of tires. But if he plans to keep his car for five years or more, then it’s worth buying a better tire.
All of the tire experts I talked to agreed that there are perfectly good reasons for the wide variety of type and price of tires on the market. It’s up to us to be informed about what we want from our tire choices next time we are in the market. •
DEREK BOTTEN is a gearhead, who is a former local radio broadcaster and motorcycle show promoter. He currently does voicework and writing from his home studio to finance his motorcycle and classic car habits.
Storing an extra set of seasonal tires not only requires a lot of space. Even if you have room in your garage or shed that might not be the best location to keep them.
To extend the lifespan of your tires, they should be stored upright rather than stacked in a climate-controlled environment, instead of freezing winter temperatures or blazing summer heat. Fortunately, many tire stores and car dealers provide proper instore or offsite storage services at a reasonable cost.
Oxford Dodge Chrysler has literally taken tire storage to a new level. Their unique facility can store up to 5,000 tires with an automated racking system that is five rows high. Streamlining the process, tires are assessed to ensure there is sufficient tread for another season. Then they are cleaned and efficiently loaded onto supportive racks that ensure there is no adverse pressure on the tires or rims.
When it’s time to swap your tires for the winter or summer season, they’re efficiently located and ready to be installed.
Check with your automotive insurance company to see if they give a discount for installing snow tires. Many do, and the savings might just pay for your tire storage.
CONSUMERS ARE GAINING MORE CHOICES as automakers expand their product lines with more hybrid, electric and conventional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Lexus UX300h
Say “so long” to range anxiety, and “hello” to the 2025 Lexus UX300h.
This self-charging hybrid electric all-wheel-drive Lexus combines the best features of an SUV and a hatchback, with more safety tech than ever. Lexus of London general manager Chris Pinelli says the appeal of self-charging capability is a game-changer.
“It’s a huge benefit for London drivers. It gives you fantastic fuel economy and all the benefits of the combination of power and efficiency — all the things that people are looking for. But you don’t have to plug it in.”
Charging is only half of the battery story. Longevity is the other half. Lexus adds to owner confidence by standing
behind its battery with warranties Chris calls “insane.”
“It comes with 10 years or 240,000 kms on the hybrid battery and then all the other hybrid electrical components are warrantied for 96 months or 160,000 kms. So that’s awesome,” he explains.
Lexus boasts only 5.6L/100 km as part of the fourth-generation self-charging hybrid electric powertrain.
The 2025 UX300h is packed with tech features for pleasure and security with Lexus Safety System +3.0. A blind spot mirror and pre-collision system with pedestrian detection are just the beginning when it comes to assisting you on the road.
With comfortable seating for five, the 2025 Lexus UX300h comes standard with 10 airbags. Entertaining passengers is as easy as wirelessly connecting your smartphone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Lexus Interface offers a suite of optional services starting with a standard eight-inch HD touchscreen display with an available upgrade to 12.3 inches.
There’s a whole lot more to the 2025 Lexus UX300h including available Premium, Luxury, F Sport Series 2 and F Sport Design packages. Learn more at LexusOfLondon.com or the showroom at 1065 Wharncliffe Road South, London. •
Acura’s first all-electric vehicle, the mid-size premium crossover ZDX, is out to prove that “raw power and peak performance can be electric.” Acura West general manager Paul Jennery says the ZDX has all the performance and luxury drivers want. “The vehicle itself is pretty striking looking, especially the Type S model, which is the high-performance version. Wickedly fast. Pretty edgy looking. Just a treat to drive, smooth and quiet. It has power, the range in kilometers and the audio system which is extraordinary.”
The Acura ZDX has a reported battery range of up to 489 emission-free kilometres and comes with three charging options. Owners can plug into an ordinary 110V wall outlet, use a 220V home charger
or get more than 120 km of range from DC fast-charging in just 10 minutes at a charging station.
The ZDX is also covered by a fouryear or 80,000 km standard warranty and an eight-year battery warranty, whichever comes first.
Parent company Honda is proving its commitment to EV technology across the spectrum, says Paul. “Dipping our toe into the waters of this new paradigm is exciting.”
The ZDX provides comfortable seating for five and plenty of standard features to make long rides more enjoyable. They include dual-zone automatic climate control and a panoramic sunroof.
For the driver, there is a heated steering wheel and a power-adjustable steering column. Plus, all the safety tech you could want and some you didn’t know you needed — from rain-sensing wipers to self-sealing tires to a rear tailgate spoiler and camera washer.
Apple Car Play and Android Auto have never sounded better than when your tunes are coming through a standard Bang & Olufsen® Premium Audio System with 18 speakers, including a subwoofer.
Whether it’s to up your game on the daily drive to work or towing up to 3,500 lbs of camping gear with the family, Acura’s ZDX is your premium choice with zero emissions. •
The 2025 Crown Signia, Toyota’s new hybrid entry into the SUV marketplace, blends the best features of Toyota’s Crown Sedan with improved functionality and a sleek design.
Kevin Laurie, North London Toyota’s general manager, explains the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia offers style, comfort and performance. “The Crown’s platform is hybrid based only, so it’s a fuel and battery assist system. This carries the hybrid Max system, so it generates more horsepower (240 HP) than your standard four-cylinder engine but gives great fuel mileage and range.”
Toyota Canada reports the Crown Signia will get 100 km per six litres. Its compact Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
battery is tucked beneath the rear seats, so it doesn’t interfere with cargo space. It’s also smaller and lighter than most other batteries. The Crown Signia seats five and features a fold-flat second row to enable a more than two-meter-long cargo area.
Every 2025 Crown Signia comes standard with leather-trimmed seating, a panoramic glass roof and an interior colour choice of black or saddle tan. In addition to the standard back-up camera, an Advanced Tech Package includes a Panoramic View Monitor that offers 360-degree surround overhead viewing.
A 12.3-inch Toyota Multimedia Touchscreen is standard, as well as Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This system
includes lane safety alert, roadside assist and other features designed to keep you and your family secure.
All this and more packed into a sleek design with five exterior colour choices: Storm Cloud or Black (standard), Bronze Age, Finish Line Red or Oxygen White (premium). Twenty-one-inch wheels and a monochromatic grille are standard.
Kevin says, the 2025 Crown Signia gives you all the “luxury features that Toyota’s perfected over the years. I think this will be a winner in its category.”
Visit North London Toyota to view the 2025 Crown Signia and book a test drive: NorthLondonToyota.com •
1515 Rob Panzer Drive, London, ON, N5X 0M7, 519-451-3880
You know the Jeep Grand Cherokee L for its rugged good looks and off-road abilities, but did you know inside that spacious SUV is an impressive level of comfort? The three-row seating has room for seven, and it’s plush. Available 16-way adjustable driver and front-passenger seats mean both the tallest and the smallest get an enjoyable ride. Heated seats are standard and available memory and massage options kick the comfort up to luxury.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a towing beast. The V6 can pull 2,812 kg and the V8, 3,265 kg. And it has the most safety features in its class, including standard features like ParkView rear
backup camera with dynamic gridlines; Parksense rear park assist with active braking; full-speed collision warning and much more. There’s available night vision. The system uses thermographic technology and infrared sensors to scan for people and animals as far as 100 metres ahead of the vehicle.
Now, about that off-roading. The available Quadra-Lift ® Air Suspension System raises and lowers the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s frame, adding ground clearance when you want it. But off-road doesn’t have to mean rough. Add the Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s long wheelbase and it’s a cushier ride, even after the pavement ends.
All this and it’s got fuel economy — an EPA estimated 9.4 lm/l which leaves other midsize SUVs in its dust.
When it comes to tech, there’s plenty to go around inside the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Uconnect 5, is the powerful, convenient, personalized infotainment system with enhanced processor speed, multiphone wireless connectivity and personalized user profiles. And that’s just the beginning. Available front-andrear passenger screens keep your ridealongs entertained.
See the Jeep Grand Cherokee L for yourself at Oxford Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, 1249 Hyde Park Road, call 855876-7605 or online at OxfordDodge.ca. •
The all-new Subaru Forester is bolder, more versatile and packed with safety features. Subaru completely redesigned the Forester from the ground up, adding more space to its two-row, five-passenger cabin. However, the company maintained the attributes that keep the Forester at the top of consumer ratings. And it’s ready for adventure.
Subaru of London Sales Manager Joe Prossler praises the all-new Forester’s good looks. “Now you can get it with 19-inch rims. The Forester has never had 19-inch wheels before. It’s sporty; it’s just a sharp looking car. I’m really impressed with what they did with it.”
This redesign combines the convenience of owning a large SUV with the ease of
driving a car. It boasts a more comfortable, quieter ride with attention to sound dampening, which results in an approximately a 39 per cent reduction in noise intensity. All-wheel drive is standard, and the all-new Forester has beefed up its award-winning Subaru EyeSight system. Pedestrian and cycling traffic are easier to locate with a new wide-angle mono camera. Another standard feature is “welcome lighting” that lights up exterior door handles in darkness. Available in Convenience, Touring, Sport, Limited and Premier trim levels, the all-new Forester is still synonymous with durability and reliability in a crossover. The new Sport trim package is spiffier
with bronze trim and those sweet wheels. The Sport version also upgrades the standard infotainment touchscreen to 11.6-inches. New available features include a power liftgate, with a hands-free kick sensor that’s redesigned for more cargo space, wireless charging pad and integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
“The Forester’s always been good, and it just got better,” says Joe. “It just went from good to great. How can you go wrong with that?”
Book a test drive by calling Subaru of London: 519-455-5985 and visit them online at subaruoflondon.com. •
The all-wheel drive 2025 Audi SQ7, celebrated by Car and Driver magazine for its “eye-opening performance and impressive blend of ride and handling,” is one to watch. With a 500-horsepower twin-turbo power plant and an eight-speed transmission, Audi engineers continue their quest for perfection.
A refined cabin still offers three rows of sport seating, covered in well-designed leather upholstery. This vehicle is at the top of its class with upgrades to the infotainment and music-streaming components, as well as an expanded selection of driver-assistance assets, including lane change, distance and intersection monitors. New upholstery choices and refreshed metal and wood trim packages are available when picking interior trim packages.
Cosmetically, there are three new paint colour options: Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue and Chili Red. Notable exterior features include a restyled grille, a new LED running light layout and an interesting new rear light signature.
Further personalize your new Audi SQ7 by selecting a suspension upgrade with your choice of additional options. The Sports package gets you stiffer suspension or the Towing package, which allows you to tow up to 7,700 pounds.
Audi stands behind their build quality with a four-year, 80,000 km
comprehensive warranty and a twelve-year corrosion warranty. For those who appreciate individuality, ask Audi of London about the very exclusive Maple Leaf Edition. This will be limited to a run of just 55 units per model and will come equipped with interior design packages in your choice of either Crimson Red or Ocean Blue. A very Canadian statement to make. •
TIME TO WARM UP TO AUTUMN
Hot, sunny beach days are waning to make way for the crisp air and warm colours of fall.
Back-to-school and back-to-work mean wardrobe upgrades. So, take a peek through the following pages to see snug sweaters, cute chapeaus and slippers for your toasty toes, along with gad-about-town pieces, ready-for-the office outfits and all manner of outerwear.
There are pieces to wear to work, enjoying a day scrambling in the leaves, a day of shopping or a night on the town.
Local and area retailers have you covered to welcome back cooler days. You’ll be ready to take on winter’s chilly temps, too.
1 Italian-made soft leather gloves, Boutique Firenze
2 Dorothee Schumacher embellished twinset, Hangar9
3 Marc Cain knitted coat, Hangar9
4 Alison Sheri large checked zip-up top, Studio Style
5 Dorothee Schumacher Moment of Joy cardigan, Hangar9
6 Haflinger coffee slipper, White Balmer Shoes
7 venti6 chunky knit cowl neck sweater, Urban Escape Inc.
8 Joseph Ribkoff wasabi notched collar coat, Magnolia Boutique
9 Harlow cardigan by Known Supply, Metanoia Boutique
10 Part Two Lilye wool blend cardigan, Resonance Fashions
11 Merino Aran lumber cardigan, MacLeod‘s Scottish Shop
12 In The Palms sweater, Comme Moi Boutique
13 Remonte TEX bootie
combination suede and leather, Ovation Shoes
14 Ragwear vegan streetwear sweatshirt, Lakewood Garden Centre
15 Remonte lambs wool, lined mid-calf boot with Texwaterproofing, White Balmer Shoes
16 Parkhurst scarlet red wool tam, MacLeod‘s Scottish Shop
17 Tweed hat, Plumage
18 Paris Gloves red finger mitt, White Balmer Shoes
19 Parkhurst Canada shorty sweater, Curiosities Gift Shop
20 Soft fleece cap, Dots and Baubles
21 Taos slipper, wool-lined footbed, orthotic-friendly, suede upper, Ovation Shoes
22 Foamtreads beige knit slipper, Ovation Shoes
Discover a world of wonder at Curiosities Gift Shop! Now under the vibrant and innovative ownership of a new young visionary, Mansi Patel, Curiosities is nestled in the heart of the Wortley Village. This welcoming gift shop has always been a treasure trove of unique finds and delightful surprises. Customers matter to Mansi and her staff. Whether you’re visiting the Village for the first time or returning to purchase another gift for yourself or a loved one, they are very grateful for your business.
BOUTIQUE FIRENZE
3-189 Adelaide St, London 519-649-4122 • boutiquefirenze.ca
COLLINS CLOTHIERS LONDON
297 Adelaide St S, London 519-680-2986 • collinsclothiers.com
COMME MOI BOUTIQUE
148 Front St N, Sarnia, 519-491-0707 • commemoiboutique.com
CURIOSITIES GIFT SHOP
174½ Wortley Road, London 519-432-0434 • curiositiesgiftshop.com
DOTS AND BAUBLES
740 Richmond St, (upstairs) London dotsandbaubles.com
HANGAR9
620 Richmond St, London 519-672-0073 • hangar9.ca
MAGNOLIA BOUTIQUE
Located in Parkway Garden Centre 1473 Gainsborough Rd, London, 226-333-2019 • parkwaygardens.ca
METANOIA BOUTIQUE
6 Main St N, Bayfield
38 Main St W, Grand Bend 519-878-3808 metanoiaboutique.ca
OVATION SHOES
1890 Hyde Park Rd, London 519-471-7556 • ovationshoes.com
OXFORD DODGE
LAKEWOOD GARDEN CENTRE
72856 Bluewater Hwy, Zurich 519-236-4479 • IN @lakewoodgarden
LESLIE'S CLOTHING
15 Main St N, Bayfield 519-565-2303 • fb.com/LesliesClothing
LIFESTYLES WOMEN'S WEAR
615 Richmond St, London 519-663-1143 • lifestylesww.ca
MACLEODS SCOTTISH SHOP
80 Ontario St, Stratford 1-888-771-0302 • scottishshop.com
1249 Hyde Park Rd, London 226-212-7228 • oxforddodge.ca
PLUMAGE STUDIO
900 King St, Western Fair Market 2nd floor, London • plumagestudio.ca
STUDIO STYLE
215 Main St, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 • studiostyle.ca
RESONANCE
23 Downie St, Stratford 519-273-6617 • resonancefashion.ca
URBAN ESCAPE INC.
132 Front St N, Sarnia 519-337-9889 • ueinc.ca
WHITE BALMER SHOES
123 Ontario St, Stratford 519-271-6661 • whitebalmershoes.com
As the cooler weather approaches, sun hats and sandals are replaced by gloves and scarves. While at Boutique Firenze these accessories are promoted year-round, storeowner Bettina Weber was preparing for autumn months ago with a trip to a country where the world’s top artisans embrace the art of accessorizing.
“We returned to Italy in March and April, to buy gloves and scarves for the fall season. We’ve brought back men’s and women’s gloves in multiple styles, as well as elegant wool, cashmere and silk scarves,” Bettina says.
She is especially excited to offer gloves from four companies based in Naples, three which make classic lambskin gloves. One offers a vegan fabric alternative. “Gloves are our shop’s most iconic product, and Naples has been the epicentre of glove-making since the 1600s. These are all handmade; we know our makers personally.”
There are 25 steps involved in taking a piece of leather and turning it into a fashionable glove, Bettina explains. “In Italy, men stretch and cut the leather, while women perform the sewing and finishing of the gloves. Years of experience are needed for these tasks; I don’t think people realize how labourintensive glove-making really is.”
While in Italy last spring, Bettina also traveled to Florence to find distinctive scarves for her customers, as well as fine toiletries, stationery and knitwear; she visited Venice to source jewellery made with Murano glass and semi-precious stones.
Boutique Firenze also offers products from Indigenous artisans. “We carry scarves, purses and jewellery designed by First Nations artists, the majority from the West Coast. It’s a bold artistic style which is instantly recognizable around the world.”
“
Gloves are our most iconic product, and Naples has been the epicentre of glove-making since the 1600s.”
The boutique sells lovely items from across the country; “I do try to have as much Canadian product as I can, in addition to the Italian imports,” Bettina adds.
“We have a wide variety of unique gift items available all year round. We have loyal customers who often come to us for birthday and anniversary gifts that can’t be found elsewhere.” •
Boutique Firenze
3-189 Adelaide Street 519-649-4122
boutiquefirenze.ca
BY JILL ELLIS-WORTHINGTON
Would you ever tape parts of your face as an anti-aging treatment? How about practicing intermittent fasting to heal your anxiety? Or treat your hair with products with the same ingredients for skincare?
Maybe yes, maybe no but with celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Gwenyth Paltrow — as well as other lesser-known influencers — demonstrating health, skin and hair care trends, many are following their advice.
Since it emerged on the social media scene in 2016, TikTok has been as popular as it has been controversial. When launched by a Chinese company called ByteDance, it had 55 million users worldwide, and by June of this year, that number had increased to 1.8 billion.
Canadians make up 3.2 million of those active monthly users, with the majority of those being female, according to Statistics Canada. Users between the ages of 40 and 65 make up 24 per cent of those millions of people.
Despite the ongoing debate about its ties to information gathering and political influence by China’s government, more people are latching on to TikTok for entertainment and information.
The term “influencer” has become a
job title and social media users look to these people with respect. They are the ones formulating the top trends of the day — day after day.
Do some of the most popular ones hold water? Are they up to the job they are professed to do, or could they be damaging?
We asked local experts to weigh in on some of TikTok’s top trends.
Amelia Holden — MSW, RSW — is a mental health therapist at Y.O.U.R. Therapy Clinic who doesn’t believe this trend is advisable. “Once we go off eating, our mood regulation goes off.”
She adds, “With intermittent fasting, you’re changing the chemical hormones directly related to anxiety and depression in the brain and changes your ability to regulate your emotions and moods.”
Holden says this could do the opposite. “If you’re starving the body of food,
you’re going to dip into survival mode and that survival mode is the key to anxiety. I don’t think it would benefit anxiety, and starving the body is creating more of a depressed state.”
Nadine Sabino, RN, who taught Nursing at Western and is a business partner at Yazdani Aesthetics, thinks that the premise of this “cycling” trend is sound but that it misses the mark.
It was originated by Dr. Whitney B owe, a dermatologist, who recommends alternating beauty products over a four-night cycle: exfoliation (first night), retinoids (second night), recovery with moisturizing and barrier repair (third and fourth nights).
“The dermatologist thought they [followers] needed to give skin a break from active ingredients like retinol or exfoliation,” Sabino says.
Sabino adds that these products increase skin turnover, getting rid of the top layer of cells that are dry and damaged to make way for new healthy skin cells on the skin’s surface.
She cautions that retinol should be introduced into a skincare routine slowly. “Use it one night and then wait a couple of days and do it again, until you work up to seven days.” And she says that leaving retinol out of your
Canadians make up 3.2 million of TikTok’s active monthly users, with the majority of those being female, according to Stats Can.
Are you going to believe celebrities rather than trained professionals?” says Dr. Rotenberg.
routine a couple of nights a week is also beneficial. “Sometimes I want to use a firming serum or a hyaluronic acid.”
Exfoliating every day is too hard on skin. “Do a light exfoliation every two or three days,” says Sabino. “It’s like mixing up your exercise routine to keep your body moving in different ways.”
So, mixing up your skincare routine is a good idea but exercise discretion as your skin’s needs dictate.
This trend involves taping one’s mouth shut to promote nose breathing. Many TikTok influencers and users swear by it. While Dr. Brian Rotenberg agrees with the premise, he’s not a fan of the method.
“We have people asking about this every day at the clinic now,” says Rotenberg “There is some inherent good because if you have an open nose airway, and you can teach yourself to breathe through your nose then that’s great.”
So, what’s the problem? “It assumes that people have a normal nasal airway,” notes Rotenberg. “What if you have polyps, a nasal tumour (which is rare), a deviated septum or chronic cellulitis?”
He also says taping the mouth can cause sleep apnea rather than cure it.
So before “jumping on the celebrity bandwagon, why don’t you get it [mouth breathing] checked out?” he asks.
“Are you going to believe celebrities rather than trained professionals?” says Dr. Rotenberg.
Also known as slugging on TikTok, this technique focuses on layering lightweight, hydrating products under Vaseline to trap moisture in the skin.
“This doesn’t make sense,” says Nadine Sabino. “It’s just a fad.”
She explains that it doesn’t make sense because putting an “occlusive barrier” on your face doesn’t allow it to breathe. “People are doing this at nighttime when our body regenerates. Why would you want to occlude that and not let anything out?”
She adds that there is a good use for Vaseline with regard to skin care: “I put Vaseline on my feet and hands before bed, not a thick layer. I have naturally dry skin, and it’s something my grandma taught me.”
“I like Vaseline for that purpose, but I would never tell someone to put Vaseline on their face. There are a lot of better ways to take care of your skin.”
Many current hairstyles are named after animals or fanciful beings. Athena Bikas says they are getting more requests for these trendy styles.
One of the most popular ones on TikTok is called the Butterfly. “This one has a retro vibe from the 90s,” says Bikas. “It combines short and long layers to give your hair dimension and body, but the blowout is the key to this style.” She says using Kerastase Chronologiste Thermique Regenerant or Kerastase L’Incroyable Blow-dry Hair Lotion for a blowout or using home rollers helps maintain the look.
The Wolf Cut is a mix of a shag and a mullet. “It has layers in front and back
and longer bangs.” Melissa, one of the stylists at Maria Bikas Salon recommends using Kevin Murphy Undressed for the layers of a shaggy Wolf Cut. “It’s all about layers and bangs,” adds Bikas.
Popular with women over the age of 50, says Bikas, is the piecey pixie, a shorter style “that is textured and piecey and cropped at the ear.”
She adds, “It’s good for women who want to be bold with their hair. It has tons of layers that create extra volume and fullness.” She recommends using Pureology Mess It Up Texture Paste. “It keeps the hair together and fans it out in pieces as you want.”
There’s a lot of scuttlebutt on TikTok about using lasers for hair loss and loss prevention. Charlene Jones, co-owner of Artistic Esthetic Spa, wants to clear up some of the misconceptions, one of those being that hair loss is only of concern to those who are middle-aged or older. “Younger people are losing their hair, even in their late teens and 20s.” She attributes this to “stress and diet and environmental causes, the chemicals we are exposed to every day.”
And it’s not only men — women are experiencing thinning and loss in greater numbers. “Hormones play a big part for women: post pregnancy, perimenopause through menopause. Hair can get really thin during these times.”
There are a few treatments available, like microneedling or infra-red. “A hair transplant is a quick fix,” says Jones. TikTok favours high-tech remedies, which Jones supports as a trend.
At her spa, Jones offers TED (transdermal delivery) which “pushes growth serum through the scalp to the base of follicles. It helps dormant and weak follicles by anchoring the hair in place quickly. So, if you’re shedding a lot of hair, TED cuts back on the amount of loss by nourishing follicles to grow hair better.”
“Hair loss might be due to dry clogged pores or having a very oily scalp.” The aim is to stop the loss and start restoring hair growth.
“ I was suffering from severe snoring and met up with Dr. Rotenberg for a solution since I did not want to live the rest of my life with a CPAP machine. He suggested removing my tonsils and uvula. The surgery was flawless and I now sleep better than I have for over 8 years. I thank Dr. Rotenberg for everything he’s done and would absolutely recommend him he’s very professional and an absolutely amazing surgeon.”
Tape might have a short-term effect but also may pull some skin off the face. “It’s a waste of time and effort. Use tape on wrapping paper, not your face.”
This is using hair products containing ingredients usually found in anti-aging skin care products: retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, etc.
According to Athena Bikas, salon ma nager at Maria Bikas Salon, this is an emerging trend in London. And that’s a good thing because these ingredients treat the scalp, which means better hair. “These products are not as well-known as they should be because having a healthy scalp means you have healthier hair.” She adds that this trend will continue. “Companies are creating more products that have this stuff in it.”
This trend involves using natural and household items on the face. For instance, applying raw honey as a mask; using raw potato slices as a treatment for dark circles; substituting Elmer’s glue for pore strips; and applying tape to various parts of the face instead of getting Botox.
Nadine Sabino attributes any positive benefits of using things like honey, potatoes or cucumbers to their natural properties. She says they may have ingredients that are hydrating to the skin but may also have ingredients that could be detrimental. “Do you know if there are preservatives in your honey? You need to know what’s in the products that you’re using on your skin. What if there’s a bad potato and you get an infection in your eyes?”
She adds, “While potatoes are high in antioxidants, there are faster, more efficient ways to brighten your eyes, like antioxidant serum.”
Some could be damaging. “What’s in glue? Do you want to put that on your face?” She cautions that in addition to perhaps pulling something out of your pores, it might also pull off some of your skin.
A nd using tape isn’t a substitute for Botox. “Botox tells the muscles not to move. If they [muscles] move, it causes wrinkles.” Tape might have a short-term effect but also may pull some skin off the face. “It’s a waste of time and effort. Use tape on wrapping paper, not your face,” she says.
S abino concludes, “Who are you going to believe to get advice on skincare? A clinic with a surgeon and a nursing team with years of experience, or a celebrity or influencer who’s making money or trying to start a fad?” •
ARTISTIC ESTHETIC SPA
191 Central Avenue
519-433-6245 artisticspa.ca
AMELIA HOLDEN
MSW, RSW
Y.O.U.R. Therapy Clinic
MARIA BIKAS SALON
1673 Richmond Street
519-850-8383 mariabikassalon.ca
DR. BRIAN ROTENBERG
230 Victoria Street
519-200-9048 sleepsurgeon.ca
YAZDANI AESTHETICS
747 Waterloo Street
519-601-4554 yazdaniaesthetics.com
JILL ELLIS-WORTHINGTON is fond of wordplay, with 35 years as a writer, editor and communications professional. She feels that a sense of humor is as important as breathing because there’s almost nothing a good laugh can’t make better.
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1 Mixed metals wall art, Marten Arts Gallery, fb.com/MartenArtsGallery
2 Timeout black and oak swivel foot lounge chair with metal legs, Cottage Culture, cottage-culture.ca
3 Amisco customizable Jill Italian porcelain round coffee table with x-shaped metal frame, London Fine Furniture, londonfinefurniture.com
4 Luca four-light black and gold-tone chandelier, City Lightz , citylightz.ca
5 Black glass and antique brass iron ZALDANA mirror, Quantum Verdi, quantumverdi.com
6 Wood and metal Mix It Up Collection coffee table, Modern Living London, modernlivinglondon.com
7 Stainless steel and copper-plated double-wall Moscow mule mug, River Bank & Co., riverbankandco.ca
8 Brass falling flower earrings crafted by Yvonne Villeneuve, Curiosities Gift Shop, curiositiesgiftshop.com
9 Nickel-free necklaces from Joanna of London, Boutique Firenze, boutiquefirenze.ca
10 Pendant with fruit jasper stone, Metamorphic Rock Shoppe & Gallery, metamorphicshop.square.site
11 Rizzo wall sculpture with rusted burnt iron, Quantum Verdi, quantumverdi.com
12 Raw brass and mother-of-pearl Italian handmade earrings, Boutique Firenze, boutiquefirenze.ca
13 Occasional chair with tubular steel frame and high-performance fabric, London Fine Furniture, londonfinefurniture.com
14 Timeout sheepskin chair with metal legs, Cottage Culture, cottage-culture.ca
15 The Kianna credenza brass (with bronze finish) door pulls, Quantum Verdi, quantumverdi.com
16 Hope bookends crafted from iron-metal with an elegant gold painted coating, Park Road Furniture, parkroadfurniture.com
17 Working silver watch-movementsteampunk cufflinks, Collins Clothiers, collinsclothiers.com
18 Brushed metal wall clock, London Fine Furniture, londonfinefurniture.com
19 Antique brass bar cart, Quantum Verdi, quantumverdi.com
20 Veneer with fully welded metal base Urbana buffet, Modern Living London, modernlivinglondon.com
21 Uriah lamp with alabaster, smoke luster glass and antique brass, Quantum Verdi, quantumverdi.com
22 Metal and wood bench, Meddle with Metal, meddlewithmetal.com
23 Le Carr Designs silver cuffs, Curiosities Gift Shop, curiositiesgiftshop.com
24 Venice six-light chandelier in Metropolis Black, City Lightz , citylightz.ca
25 Metal moose wall art, Iron Barn, ironbarn.ca
26 Large metal heron panel, jjsteelworks.com
27 Metal windmill clock, Westland Greenhouses, Grand Bend
28 Textured silver nickel cast aluminum metal accent table, Park Road Furniture, parkroadfurniture.com
29 Pewter flask with bronze Celtic bands, MacLeod’s Scottish Shop, scottishshop.com
30 Powder-coated steel with birch top counter island, London Fine Furniture, londonfinefurniture.com
BY LOIS QUAIL
The Lifestyle ladies headed to Lambton County in high spirits. We were looking for fun with a friend from Montreal, and our trip exceeded our high hopes. We continued the West Coast route (mostly Huron County), we explored in the July/August issue. We had dipped into the northern tip of Lambton County when we crossed the Ausable River in Grand Bend on that adventure and now we wanted to explore the Lake Huron shore all the way to Sarnia, the county’s largest city.
Many of us are familiar with the treasured provincial park, The Pinery, with its white sand beaches, dunes, warm waters and oak savannah. Our tight itinerary meant we had to drive right by, and although we had theatre on our agenda, we had already bypassed Huron Country Playhouse. It offers a strong summer lineup in its distinctive barn-like structure just outside Grand Bend. We would have stopped at the eclectic Pinery Market too, if it had been Sunday, but the sparkling waters of Ipperwash were calling us.
After a refreshing dip in the azure water of Lake Huron, we strolled to nearby Ipperwash Beach Club, the heart of the surrounding cottage community for over 100 years. Completely renovated in 2017 by its owners Jim and Grace Dekker, the IBC offers patrons five different areas for enjoyment: a nautical-themed pub, a full restaurant, two shady patios and an ice cream/coffee shop, which is a popular destination after watching one of Ontario’s world-famous west coast sunsets. Visitors can book lakeview suites on the second level of the Club, and they can rent boats and paddleboards to make their beach vacation extra fun. The back patio features live music Thursdays to Saturdays.
Our adventure continued at Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House, a dynamic business showing the power of a unified family vision spanning three generations. Recognizing the value of the farm’s sandy loam soil, Joe and Alma Vansteenkiste established the orchards in 1968. Since then, the orchards have grown to an area of forty acres using integrated pest management, supporting 35 varieties of eating apples and over 60 varieties of cider apples. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture extends to a further 10 acres of completely pesticide-free crops, including pumpkins, tomatoes and apples that are sold in the farm store, along with a diverse selection of farmmade preserves and thematic gifts. The family began making cider in 2004 and won the prestigious International Cidermaker of the Year award in both 2022 and 2023. We sampled a delightful array of hard and sweet ciders, each with its own unique character, learned about the cider-making process and took home
bottles of our favorites. Next time we visit, we plan to walk the Twin Pines trails and linger in the timber-frame pavilion to enjoy a wood-fired pizza. Savouring the open road of Highway 7, we flew right by the sign for Forest Glen Herb Garden. Curious, we unanimously agreed to turn around and investigate. A small path led us through hedges, opening onto a field of colourful herbs stretching into the distance. An intimate outdoor area offered potted herbs and heirloom garlic varieties for sale. Owner Cynthia Cook has been working on her herbal wonderland for 42 years and considers it a lifestyle more than a business. The shop, housed in a 150-year-old barn, proved to be an otherworldly experience. Bunches of dried herbs hung from the ceiling beams and walls; baskets and buckets of packaged herbal combinations and potpourri adorned vintage furniture; and the nostalgic beauty of dried flower arrangements brightened every corner. The spicy-sweet aroma was intoxicating.
In addition to the vast array of herbs and herbal products for sale, Cook offers classes on growing and using herbs. She also creates custom flower arrangements that retain their beauty after they dry, forming meaningful keepsakes for special occasions.
Sarnia is strategically situated where the southern shores of Lake Huron join the St. Clair River. It’s the busiest section of the St. Lawrence Seaway System. We headed for lunch at Dockside Restaurant and Bar, overlooking the busy Sarnia Marina. The breezy patio and waterside dining room are ideal and relaxing spots to view sailboats, ships and other watercraft. We dined on crab cakes with corn salsa, fish tacos and Asian noodle salad. There is something on the menu for every taste or simply kick back with a cocktail or local brew. The restaurant’s nautical-themed décor and friendly staff added to the charm, making it a perfect midday retreat.
After lunch, we explored some downtown retailers. Our first stop, Silhouettes Boutique, offers stylish fashions for women and discreet services for those affected by cancer. This chic store, a government certified accredited facility through the Ontario Ministry of Health, prides itself on delivering premier, compassionate pre- and post-mastectomy care, high quality wigs and compression sleeves. Shoppers can also find lingerie with professional bra fittings, formal wear, swim/cruise wear and accessories. By offering a wide selection of fashion items, women affected by cancer do
Sarnia, strategically situated where the southern shores of Lake Huron join the St. Clair River, is the busiest section of the St. Lawrence Seaway System.
not feel conspicuous entering the shop; instead, they feel empowered by the knowledgeable and caring staff. The motto of the boutique is: three floors of fashion for every woman, every day. Just down the road, an intoxicating scent drew us into urban escape inc , a shop known for its curated mix of tasteful home décor and women’s clothing.
A local icon since 2006, Amy Spadafora purchased the store in 2020, continuing the legacy of the original owners. Reflecting the latest urban trends, items are handpicked for their uniqueness and versatility, providing Sarnia with products usually only found in larger cities. Minimalist Scandinavian-influenced designs emanate calm and elegance, encouraging patrons to create an oasis of their homes. The experts at urban escape inc offer inhome design consultations to assist with the transformation.
Comme Moi Boutique was our next destination — “a little boutique … full of pretty little things.” In the bright, airy shop we found a variety of elegant pieces with boho- and beach-inspired vibes, perfect for casual outings and social gatherings. The boutique’s modern aesthetic and high-quality fabrics made each item a standout. Sarah Savage has only owned the shop one year but has already set a tone that meets the needs of discriminating customers looking for fresh designs and tasteful accessories.
Drawn in by their inviting storefront, River Bank & Co. astounded us with layers of cooperative industry. Sharing store costs, multiple vendors complement and assist each other in the vibrant, communal space. The concept began in 2017 when Jess Butler sought roots for her online business, Red Balloon, which sells houseware and giftware, and has grown to showcase 40 local artisans and unique retailers. The collective shows a creative use of space of the heritage building that
was originally a bank. The Vault Hair Studio, certified as a Green Circle Salon (designated as sustainable), is aptly named for its unique location within the former vault. A second vault serves as the waiting room and art gallery. The diverse mix of products and services creates a lively and joy-filled atmosphere, and we saw happy shoppers leaving with distinctive treasures that support the local economy.
In need of a pick-me-up, we headed to Blackwater Coffee Co., where the friendly, funky atmosphere made us feel instantly at home. Original red brick walls, massive evocative paintings by Elmira artist Liana Russwurm and rustic wooden tables create a sense of welcome and inclusiveness.
Since 2010, owners Alyssa and David Duguay have been serving Sarnia’s only house-roasted beans, transforming their café into a true community hub. Our coffees were exceptional, and when paired
with a delightful treat from the local Flakery Bakery, we felt truly indulged. Connect with Blackwater on Facebook to stay informed of live music Fridays and other events.
Lola’s Lounge is a sumptuous experience, not simply a restaurant. Delighting patrons since 2002, Lola’s Lounge serves up exquisitely prepared dishes in a glamorous retro atmosphere. Scarlet clouds of prismatic, geometric mobiles infuse the restaurant with a rosy glow, further enhanced by dark colours, mirrors, waterfall sparkle curtains and vintage hanging lamps. Charismatic owner Tania Auger
envelops her patrons with enthusiasm and genuine hospitality. She succeeds brilliantly in her vision to provide top-tier fine dining for the region. All the items we ordered were exceptional in quality and
taste. The drinks were equally brilliant, with delicious cocktails, mocktails and liqueurs contributing to a truly delightful experience. Our Montreal guest started with the Boston Clam Chowder, with added mussels, shrimp and scallops. He was ecstatic, declaring it the best he had tasted. Our rich and creamy Oysters Rockefeller was equally delicious, and our mains were at the same high level. The signature Rack of Lamb with Maple Glaze melted in my mouth; the tender Ahi Tuna, encrusted with crunchy black sesame, was tangy, light and flavourful; and the Arctic Char was of superlative quality, glazed in mouth-watering maple butter. We did not resist Tania’s encouragement to have the house-made authentic
Key Lime Pie for dessert, and we can hardly wait to go back.
Wonderfully satisfied and happy, we walked two short blocks to The Insignia Hotel , a stylish historic boutique establishment that combines luxury and comfort. Our suite was spacious, modern and elegant, featuring high-end amenities such as Frette robes, L’Occitane toiletries and a Nespresso coffee bar. The hotel’s amenities are top-notch, with a relaxing pool and hot tub, infrared saunas and a surprisingly well-appointed fitness room. Well rested, the next morning we enjoyed a restaurant-style made-to-order breakfast, setting us up for another fun day of exploration.
Both Lola’s Lounge and Blackwater Coffee Co. use fresh produce and arti-
sanal products from the Sarnia Farmers’ Market , one of Ontario’s oldest continuously run farmers’ markets, in operation since 1953. This vibrant market, open year-round on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, features a fantastic array of local merchants including a fishery,
butchers, beekeepers, delis, a pizza maker, flower growers, a cheese shop, unique bakeries and local farmers with organic produce. Outdoor vendors are available throughout the summer, while indoor vendors keep the market bustling in winter, ensuring there is always something to explore.
Our tour of the a fascinating journey through Sarnia’s
Visitors to Lambton County might come across Oil Town Brewing Co.’s intriguing line of hot sauces. Turns out these award-winning condiments are produced by Adam Veen, Sarnia-Lambton’s director of marketing. Cleverly packaged and named after popular motor oils, the small-batch sauces are made with local ingredients and range from wildly hot to sweet and spicy. Also available online. oiltownbrewing.com
cultural heart. The building, constructed in 1936, was home to the Capitol Movie Theatre for 52 years. After the movie theatre closed, the heritage building became derelict and was slated for demolition before it was purchased in 1995 by Theatre Sarnia , one of the oldest, continuously operating theatre groups in Canada. With fundraising creativity and a strong vision, the theatre group completely renovated and modernized the premises while maintaining its Art Deco grandeur. The 613-seat theatre hosts the five-show season of Theatre Sarnia, as well as music acts, dance performances, film screenings and visiting theatre productions. This elegant theatre is fully accessible, has two nostalgic bars for refreshments and attracts patrons from both sides of the border.
We had heard that “the world’s best fries” could be found by the Bluewater
Bridge in Point Edward, just a short hop from Sarnia, so we felt duty-bound to confirm that. Dating back to 1932, Original Alberts operated as a seasonal chip wagon under the Bluewater Bridge until 2006, amassing a devoted following. Today, the famous fry shop has a permanent location near Waterfront Park, sharing space with Suzy’s Ice Creamporium. Our verdict on the fries? As advertised!
Next, we headed to the charming town of Petrolia, known as “Canada’s Victorian Oil Town.” The town experienced North America’s first oil boom, leading to great prosperity and the highest per capita income in Canada for a time. This wealth is still visible in its impressive public buildings. When a lack of a railway hindered oil development, the industrious townspeople built their own, which paid for itself within six months.
Our first stop was at Petrolia Mercantile and Tea, a wonderland of diverse giftware, including unique puzzles, cocktail accessories, Royal Doulton figurines, a rainbow of teapots and natural skincare products. However, the tea collection is what makes the store remarkable. Carrying an astonishing 380 loose teas
onsite, both black and herbal, owner and Tea Master Karen Watson captivated us with stories regarding the production of various exotic teas. The teas are very fresh and aromatic, sourced from The Metropolitan Tea Company, a luxury tea wholesaler that adheres to strict environmental and ethical protocols. For coffee drinkers, Watson offers a wide variety of beans from Rufino Coffee, also implementing environmentally and ethically sound practices. I was excited to leave with Lapsang Souchong Butterfly #1 Tea, which is difficult to source and a delight to drink.
We lingered long at the teashop, necessitating a speedy lunch before our appointment at the Petrolia Victoria Playhouse. Next door, The Cottage Petrolia fit the bill. Service was cheerful and prompt, allowing us time to enjoy the homey atmosphere while savouring a hearty chili and fresh veggie and dip tray. Everything on the menu looked tasty and satisfying, with enough treats to satisfy a sweet tooth.
We joined crowds flocking into the Playhouse and found our seats in the state-of-the-art, 400-seat theatre. The
playhouse
Callandra
for the surrounding regions, offering six shows from May to October, along with two special Christmas performances. We were delighted to take in an exuberant musical retrospective, the perfect finale to our two-day Lambton County getaway. Cheers to the coast! •
Lois Quail and her companions were guests of The Insignia Hotel in Sarnia, which did not review or approve this story.
Old North Sconery launches in London
With a brand-new location in London and an expanded business, the owner of Old North Sconery & Market on Cheapside Street is seeing many new and repeat customers come through the doors at the new site. “I changed the business profile when I changed locations. We’re more of a market now. It’s been going well,” says Tracie Aarts.
Tracie used to sell her homemade baked goods out of the Arva Flour Mill but moved her business to London in June and renamed it. Many of the market’s offerings are from local entrepreneurs who emphasize freshness and flavour. Two London companies that use top quality ingredients to create their products include La Noisette, a London wholesale bakery with more than a decade of experience and Pizza Club, a frozen pizza business that sources as many local ingredients as possible, says Tracie. “You just can’t beat their quality and taste.”
She says customers enjoy getting their daily cup of joe on site as well. “Our espresso-based coffees are made with roasted beans from the Tillsonburg company Zafiato Coffee Roasters, and our local drip coffee is Stratford’s To Bean or Not To Bean. Both offer exceptional taste for our customers.”
Tracie says a staple of her business is still her baked goods, including nine varieties of handcrafted scones, made daily, that can be topped with her whipped butter. “Scones are the number one seller, and our cupcakes and cookies sell well, too. We also have a lot of customers who keep coming back for our butter tarts.”
“I changed the business profile when I changed locations. We’re more of a market now. It’s been going well.”
Hand-written recipes passed down through the family with some new twists is how she describes her goodies. Many of the recipes are from her maternal grandmother, affectionately called Grammy Van (her last name was VanBuskirk). She says her family recipes for date squares, brownies and vanilla cake remain unchanged and have stood the test of time.
Some of the baked goods she offers change with the seasons, she says. For autumn, Tracie is excited to introduce her pumpkin chai scones. Old North Sconery & Market is open seven days a week.•
BY BRYAN LAVERY
Last year, The New York Times published “The Story of Multicultural Canada, Told in Humble Strip Mall Eateries,” by Toronto food writer Suresh Doss. “Some of Toronto’s best dining options are mom-and-pop shops little known beyond their immigrant patrons, offering dishes that recall tastes from home or fuse new flavours,” writes Doss. This observation holds true across Canada and London, Ontario, is no different. We are seeing a growing proliferation of these types of unsung restaurants, including an enticing explosion of regional Indian and Asian establishments.
This summer, I had the pleasure to partake in some great dining experiences, deepen my perspective as a chef/ restaurateur and savour several potential Michelin-star-worthy meals accompanied by a Cantonese interpreter. In 2022, Toronto became the first Canadian city to have its own Michelin Guide, and 13 restaurants were decorated with Michelin stars. The 2023 selection includes 82 restaurants and an astounding 28 types of cuisine. The restaurant industry and our food culture are evolving rapidly. While I always look to see what is new and exciting on the gastronomic radar, a restaurant’s success goes beyond just serving delicious food. It’s also about hospitality, good service and a memorable experience. More than ever, my work as a chef and food writer motivates me to educate myself about food procurement, culinary incubation and innovation, as well as advancing “local” in our food culture — including exploring the variety of underappreciated immigrant cuisines now available to us in southwestern Ontario. I often meet with fellow chefs, restaurateurs, colleagues
and other food enthusiasts to stay abreast of the restaurant and culinary scene. Just as important, I dine out whenever the opportunity arises.
A restaurant certification program, Thai SELECT spotlights Thai dining establishments that honour the southeast Asian country’s authentic cuisine. Toronto’s Thai Trade Centre and the Royal Thai Government’s Ministry of Commerce’s Thai SELECT seals of approval intend to help people discover Thailand’s traditional flavours and encourage chefs and restaurateurs to strive for the highest quality in cuisine, ingredients and service. To maintain specific criteria, restaurants must reapply for certification every three years. Awarded restaurants focus on upholding traditional Thai cooking methods and aim to include authentic Thai ingredients throughout their menus. Locally, my dining partners and I are big fans of Meesai’s Thai Kitchen + Cocktails in Byron for its must-try pad Thai and pad Phet with red curry, coconut milk and stirfried seasonal vegetables. meesaithai.com
Feast ON is a criteria-based certification program designed to promote, market and protect the authenticity of food service operators whose specific attributes qualify their commitment to local food. The program helps locate restaurants that champion Ontario food and beverages. It uses both verification and enforcement mechanisms to maintain its integrity. Locally, restaurants like sixthirtynine in Woodstock, Eddingtons of Exeter, Elora Mill and Hotel, The Little Inn of Bayfield, Hessenland Inn and Schatz Winery in Zurich, Clock Tower Inn-Bistro-Pub in Strathroy and Langdon Hall in Cambridge are all certified by Feast On. I will add that London’s Craft Farmacy and Abruzzi
were previous adopters of this program and still maintain the highest standards. culinarytourismalliance.com/feast-on
Chef Mark Kitching has sold Waldo’s on King in Covent Garden Market after 40 years in the business through several iterations. The new owner, Bala, has hired Kitching to help with the transition. Speaking of Covent Garden Market, Jess Jazey-Spoelstra has gutted the former Oliver Twists and is opening a new restaurant called Bear and Frankie at the end of September. The River Room in Museum London will close in mid-September. Jazey-Spoelstra’s other new project is Los Olivos, a Californiastyle restaurant in Riverbend. La Casa Ristorante has changed ownership. Jewel of India, a longtime downtown mainstay operating since 1985, has also been sold.
Chef Angie Murphy of Grace Restaurant announced that Grace Bodega has closed. Due to many factors, maintaining the vision became untenable. Instead, the culture and passion that created Bodega is returning to Grace Restaurant. The curated wines will continue to be served at Grand Crew Wine Club at Grace Restaurant and for take-home by incorporating the Bodega bottle shop. There are reinvigorated plans to share in the coming months. Incidentally, Murphy and executive director Jen Wyant from Growing Chefs! Ontario recently hosted the summer launch of Londonlicious at Grace Restaurant. A record number of restaurateurs and culinary professionals attended the networking and communitybuilding event. gracelondon.ca
David Cummings, manager of community relations for the Regional HIV/AIDS Connection, told me that the annual Taste for Life fundraiser raised
just under $35,000 to go directly into programming and services.
My business partner, restaurateur Emanuela Frongia, recently introduced me to Hanyang Jokbal, a Korean restaurant specializing in rich and savoury jokbal dishes with a few flavour profiles, including honey garlic, barbecue and spicy. Jokbal is a half-Chinese/halfKorean term meaning “foot foot” — the whole lower leg of a pig — and is a traditional Korean favourite cooked with soy sauce and spices. Jokbal is usually shared by several people, so is generally served in large portions and accompanied by bean sprout broth with scallions and minced garlic. Side dishes include pickled
daikon, spicy kimchi and dipping sauces, such as ssamjang (fermented soybean paste) to enhance the dish and balance the intense flavours. Because it is oily and
has a strong flavour, Korean diners often eat the falling off-the-bone meat in a piece of lettuce with the sauces and other vegetables.
Wing Wah Asian Cuisine, located on Adelaide Street in First London Centre (plaza south of Huron), offers the city’s best and most consistent dim sum. “Wing” means prosperity in Cantonese, and “Wah” means China in Chinese. We love the delicious BBQ pork pastry, and the BBQ roasted duck is next level, although a tad greasy. The chef hails from Hong Kong, and, like most Cantonese chefs, he prefers his BBQ pork to be 50 per cent lean and 50 per cent fat. We are fans of the tender, steamed and stuffed Chinese eggplant with shrimp paste; the grilled Vietnamese-style short ribs; and the tiny, steamed spareribs with spicy black bean sauce. The restaurant also offers a Chinese set menu with many standard Chop Suey House specialties designed for takeaway and the Caucasian palate. For the best experience, go to Wing Wah from Thursday to Sunday for dim sum. wingwah.ca
Speaking of dim sum, I recently had a fantastic Sichuan-style (spicy) brunch at Jinli Hot Pot in the Wonderland Road strip mall south of Oxford. The name “Jinli” originally comes from the famous gastronomy street in Chengdu, Sichuan. Chinese hotpot, often called “huoguo” in Mandarin, is a culinary tradition that exemplifies communal dining. A roiling vessel of aromatic broth, typified by Sichuan pepper and chillies, is placed in the centre of the table. Diners select from thinly sliced medium-rare beef, various vegetables, starches and dipping sauces. Our server introduced me to duck blood soup, a traditional and fragrant delicacy: duck blood, vermicelli, duck gizzards, coriander and aromatic citruslike hot spices.
Jing Jing Nutrifood Market & Eatery, at 85 York Street, has an interesting selection of Chinese products and specializes in lion’s mane mushrooms and ginseng. The tiny Market Café serves a small selection of handcrafted dim sum, such as har gow (shrimp dumplings), fish balls, sticky rice cake and bok choy dumplings. There is a more extensive menu of appetizers, combos and mains, such as a simmering clay pot meal. Try the lion’s mane slider and the raw chocolate and avocado mousse for dessert. jingnutrifood.com
Another excellent Chinese hot spot is the indie So Inviting, across from The Market at the Western Fair on Dundas Street. Hospitable owners Yamei Min and Youjin Wang have had a huge impact on Old East Village residents and marketgoers. They offer a variety of savoury hand-made dumplings (pot stickers) that include beef, chicken, pork, and vegetable. There are several types of sauces on offer to suit your palate and a selection of not-too-sweet baking. The mooncakes with savoury bean paste
cookies are a big hit. Choose what you want; it’s self-serve and priced by weight. The minimalist bakery is take-away
only, not dine-in. The interior is tiny, and the prices are more than reasonable. fb.com/SoInvitinginOEV
Lucy’s Pizza & Cocktails is one of Richmond Row’s trendy new restaurants. This sophisticated yet unpretentious Italian-inspired hot spot features a stylish dining room with high-top seating and a white marble-clad bar. Lucy’s talented mixologists serve innovative craft cocktails. An espresso martini flight is available every Friday for the ultimate experience, with six unique martinis for just $60 available until 9 p.m. The cooks serve pasta bowls, such as perfectly salted, tomatoey, vodka rigatoni and thin-crust scorched Neapolitan-style pizzas from the open-concept kitchen. A standout is the Truffle Shuffle Pizza with truffle cream, mozzarella and arugula. We like the burrata and the lightly browned and battered bang bang shrimp, served in half a hollowed-out coconut shell. instagram.com/ everyoneloveslucys
A recent visit to David’s Bistro confirms the restaurant continues to rank in the city’s top echelons of casual fine dining, with its signature crimson walls, chalkboard prix-fixe food and excellent consignment wine offerings. David Chapman’s daughter Natalie Chapman has taken over the venerated downtown restaurant and is on hand to dispense friendly, intelligent and professional service. David’s protégé Chef Michael “Elvis” Drennan, assisted by sous chef Rick Hunt , continues to cook superbly executed classic French-inspired bistro fare, such as pan-roasted steelhead trout with mustard greens, roasted new potatoes, green beans and fennel beurre blanc. We love the Lyonnaise Salad with frisee, smoked duck lardons, mustard vinaigrette and poached egg in a potato nest and the mushroom-and-leek pot pie. davidsbistro.ca
Garlic’s of London
Garlic’s of London has been a popular dining destination for over 30 years. Garlic’s exemplifies the transcendent synergy between authentic, chef-driven culinary craftsmanship and meticulously procured ingredients, imbued with contemporary twists on time-honoured traditions. Food is made from scratch, inspired by local products and elevated by freshly harvested seasonal ingredients. We are big fans of the truffled garlic and onion bisque garnished with basil oil and the Gnocchi Cacio E Pepe, with homemade potato gnocchi, snap peas, shallots, black pepper, Pecorino-Romano and pesto cream. garlicsoflondon.com
The response has exceeded all expectations in the first few weeks since Riva opened beside the Port Stanley lift bridge, alongside the West District Pier and inside the refurbished 94-year-old former Dominion of Canada building. The premises will also be home to the Port Stanley Brewing Company. While dining at Riva, Executive Chef Terrance Tew dropped by my table and told me the restaurant had accommodated 5,000 patrons and had served over 136
kilograms of fresh Lake Erie pickerel, as of this writing. It has been so busy that the kitchen had to add a latenight shift to keep up with the prep and mise en place. Fresh-off-the-boat pickerel — paired with arugula, tomatoes, charred lemon, capers, garlic, shallots, white wine and fingerling potatoes — is classic. The restaurant focuses on Italian flavours, like wood-fired pizza and various pasta dishes. Longtime hospitality professional Leo Larizza is on hand to schmooze the guests. rivaitalian.com
Indian restaurants often present dishes as part of a uniform, nationalized cuisine but the cuisines of India are regionally specific and as diverse as its population. I recently spoke with a local business broker who told me that over 10 new Indian restaurants opened downtown last year. These restaurants find patrons by word of mouth and fill new niches for immigrant food.
Raajbhog, located in the space formerly occupied by Budapest Restaurant, is now, perhaps the best fine-dining Indian restaurant in downtown London. We love the velvety baingan bharta with smoky, roasted eggplant, the Manchurian platter, with three flavours of noodles and perfectly cooked basmati rice, as well as charred, succulent Peshawari chicken. raajbhog.ca
Udupi Krishna is a hospitable downtown gem serving northern and southern plant-based Indian cuisine with varieties of dosas, uttapams, idli, thali or bhojanam (meaning full meal) and vegetarian curries with options for Jain, vegan and gluten-free dishes. Incidentally, my Indian, Sri Lankan and Nepalese colleagues agree they serve the best sambal in the city, and menus are entirely nut-free. udupikrishna.ca
BRYAN LAVERY brings years of knowledge as an award-winning chef, culinary experience facilitator, food writer, restaurateur and hospitality consultant. Bryan welcomes your tips about the area’s cuisine scene at ethicalgourmet@yahoo.com
Running an agricultural business has been in the Crunican family blood for nearly a century and a half.
Like the roots of the apple trees on the family land, the Crunican clan has been firmly anchored on its 150-acre orchard near Elginfield for generations.
Established in 1877, Crunican Orchards combine tradition and innovation. “You have your base, but the business keeps evolving,” says Philip Crunican, who owns the orchards with his brothers Peter and Alf.
Their great-grandfather Michael ran a store in Lucan and had the Donnellys as customers. “He was the Catholic storekeeper, so he actually did business with the Donnellys,” Philip says. “When his wife wanted to move from Lucan, Michael bought the farm from his father-in-law. That’s how they started farming and it just kept expanding.”
Philip’s grandfather Alphonse planted his first apple trees on the land in 1910. It wasn’t considered a good plan by some, Philip says, as grains were considered the best choice by most. “The business was so different then. You planted trees 40 feet apart at the time, so only a few ended up on an acre. My father and uncle planted their first dwarf trees in 1967. Now there are 500 to 600 on an acre.”
Crunican Orchards still produces two of the farm’s original apple varieties — Northern Spy and Russet — and now have about 20 varieties, along with a store.
Cold storage was added around 1960. Another storage building was built on site last year. It keeps the apples fresh and crisp year-round, Philip says.
Today the store has local products such as honey, flour and artisan cheese from producers throughout southwestern
It’s the evolution of the next generation doing something different.”
Ontario. “We’ve had some good success with products that people can’t get anywhere else.”
Philip’s son and daughter Greg and Colleen have contributed to the business with their hard cider for sale onsite. “It’s the evolution of the next generation doing something different.”
The Crunicans continue to look to the future. “Some retailers have pick-your-own apples — what we call entertainment farming — that’s the way it could evolve. You’ve got to keep changing.” •
carry on the heritage of Crunican Orchards.
ABOVE The family business has long been a force in the community.
MIDDLE A previous generation of Crunican brothers harvesting apples in 1939: Paul (sitting), Patrick (standing) and Gerry (leaning).
LEFT The next generation will take the family business into the future with hard ciders.
REVIEWED BY SUE GORDON
With almost five million Instagram followers on @feelgoodfoodie, Yumna Jawad has clearly tapped into the contemporary culinary zeitgeist. Inspired by her viral posts, she has created an inspirational book for home cooks who are enthusiastic about new takes on nutritious and tasty meals for their family and friends. She combines her Middle Eastern background with what she, as a Michigander, describes as “midwestern tastes” and infuses Mediterranean-inspired feel-good ingredients into a well-organized collection of 125 quick and easy recipes.
Yumna, as she is known to her followers, generally limits each recipe to no more than eight ingredients. I had many of them on hand but also enjoyed exploring new areas (to me) of my local grocery store and a neighbourhood Indian store to purchase the rest. I can honestly say I will use these again, so there were no extravagant purchases that will age out in my cupboard. Yumna also offers suggestions for using leftovers, and I appreciate that. But I especially love that prep time for these recipes is 30 minutes or less.
Directions are easy to follow and include guidance for how to effectively prepare, use and take care of some lesser-known ingredients. For example, now I know how to make pomegranate molasses, a pretty simple process that gave an incredible flavour boost to the salad recipe to follow. Yumna’s directions for using fresh herbs were expected, but I found her suggestions for how to help them stay fresh for an extraordinarily long time revelatory. When I can’t take clippings right from my garden and need
Yumna generously posts a free recipe with tips on creative kitchen techniques and food storage information every day.
to buy herbs — like basil, cilantro, mint and parsley — I’ll be putting them into jars of water or wrap them in dampened paper towels and storing in the fridge until I need them.
I tested the following recipes by serving dinner to three friends, with the understanding that I wanted feedback for this review. We started with a glass of Mint-Basil Lemonade that I had made ahead of time. I used my juicer for the lemons, and they provided plenty of zing, while the mint and the basil added an
unusual but refreshing taste. For some, a little more honey was welcome.
The Cashew-Crusted Cod and Green Beans were cooked on separate trays but went into the oven at the same time. The crust, which I could have prepared the day before, not only added a satisfying crunch, but served as an envelope of crispiness that kept the flavour and juices inside. The cod was bought fresh and it came out flaky and flavourful. (Hopefully we will see more Newfoundland cod in stores next year, as the fishing moratorium has been lifted.)
The Grilled Halloumi Peach Salad was incredibly attractive and easy to put together. The recipe called for a large bed of greens but because I served it with the other dishes, perhaps I could have cut back on them. The halloumi gave the salad a pleasantly salty taste, and the pomegranate molasses added some sweetness. The contrast was just right, with the dressing almost more like a glaze that added colour to the whole meal. Again, the dressing can be prepared the day before.
I made the Cherry Chocolate Chia Pudding for dessert. The presentation was somewhat comical, and I would probably only serve this to family or especially good friends. But the recipe provided a generous amount, and everyone enjoyed a second helping. I used frozen cherries, but fresh ones might have competed more with the chocolate flavour, yet it was a delicious conclusion to a communal meal that wasn’t overtaxing to prepare and that everyone enjoyed.
Yumna generously posts a free recipe with tips on creative kitchen techniques and food storage information every day. I’m now a member of her large following.
See recipes on page 80 and
Makes about 6 cups
Active Time: 10 minutes • Total Time: 10 minutes
This homemade lemonade is refreshing, hydrating, and bright green, with fresh mint and basil. It’s just sweet enough, packed with vitamin C and truly special, despite its simplicity. There’s no need to strain the lemonade after blending if you have a highspeed blender — but if you don’t, just pour the drink through a fine-mesh sieve before storing for a nice, smooth texture.
6 lemons
1 ⁄ 3 cup honey
¼ cup fresh mint leaves
¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Zest 2 of the lemons into a high-speed blender. Add the juice of all 6 lemons (about 1 cup), the honey, mint, basil, and 4 cups of cold water. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and bright green, 30 to 40 seconds. Transfer to three glass pint jars and store, tightly sealed, in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, shake vigorously, and pour in a glass over ice.
Serves 6 • Active Time: 15 minutes • Total Time: 25 minutes
Halloumi is one of those magical, non-melting cheeses that tastes like a grilled cheese without the bread when it’s seared on a grill or in a hot skillet. I love eating it fresh, too, but it’s seriously next level when crisped to golden-brown perfection. Grilled halloumi is tender yet sturdy and deliciously savory, with a robust flavor that adds a fun flair to salads. And because this cheese is rather meaty, it’s great for adding to vegetarian salads to make them heartier and more filling. Alongside ripe
Put fresh herbs in jars of water or wrap in dampened paper towels to store in the fridge until needed.
peaches, walnuts, and a pomegranate molassesspiked dressing, this salad highlights just how good halloumi can be.
1 (8-ounce) block of halloumi, drained and sliced crosswise into ¼-inch planks
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
5 ounces spring mix lettuce (about 10 cups)
2 peaches, sliced
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Serves 4 • Active Time: 15 minutes • Total Time: 30 minutes
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon pomegranate molasses
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 Pat the halloumi slices very dry with a paper towel. Set aside.
2 Heat the oil in a grill pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced halloumi in a single layer. Cook, undisturbed, until the bottoms are golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Flip the halloumi and cook until the other side is also golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes longer. Transfer the halloumi to a plate; let cool for at least 10 minutes.
3 Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk the oil, vinegar, honey, pomegranate molasses, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
4 On a large serving platter, arrange the lettuce, peaches, onion, walnuts, and grilled halloumi.
Serves 4 • Active Time: 15 minutes • Total Time: 30 minutes
This is one of those meals that looks impressive because of the crunchy cashew-crumb crust on the cod, but it comes together pretty quickly on one baking sheet. The yogurt and-mustard mixture helps the spiced-crumb coating stick to the cod and lock in the fish’s delicate flavor. Sometimes I’ll substitute the crisp-tender green beans here for trimmed asparagus in the summer or thinly sliced broccoli in the winter, so feel free to do so, too.
4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
1 teaspoon salt, divided
½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
¼ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 cup cashews, finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Olive oil cooking spray
1 pound green beans, trimmed
1 Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2 Pat the cod dry with paper towels and season with ½ teaspoon of the salt and ¼ teaspoon of the pepper. Set aside.
3 In a large bowl, whisk the yogurt and mustard. Add the cod fillets, turning each one with your hands until evenly coated. Set aside.
4 In a medium bowl, combine the cashews, breadcrumbs, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder. Working with one fillet at a time, evenly coat the cod on both sides in the cashew mixture, gently pressing on the fish to help the cashew crumbs adhere. Place each crumb-coated fillet on the prepared baking sheet and generously coat with the cooking spray.
5 Scatter the green beans around the fish, spray
with the cooking spray, and season with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Roast until the cashew crumbs are golden brown and the cod flakes easily with a fork, 15 to 18 minutes.
Serves 2 • Active Time: 5 minutes • Total Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling)
This just-sweet-enough dark chocolate chia pudding is great for those days I want something sweet but nutrient dense. Chia seeds are tiny-but-mighty nutritional powerhouses packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, fiber,
and antioxidants. Even better, they’re so delicious and satisfying when soaked until thick and creamy with cherries, chocolate chips, and a pretty perfect balance of maple syrup and cocoa. This recipe is a chameleon that can qualify as a snack or as a dessert!
1 cup almond milk
1 ⁄ 3 cup chia seeds
¼ cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 ⁄ 8 teaspoon salt
½ cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen), chopped 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
1 In a medium bowl or storage container, vigorously whisk the milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and salt, incorporating any cocoa powder sticking to the sides and bottom. Stir in the cherries and chocolate chips.
2 Cover the chia pudding and refrigerate until thick and creamy, at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. Give it a good stir before serving and enjoy cold. •
Excerpted from The Feel Good Foodie Cookbook by Yumna Jawad. Copyright © 2024 Yumna Jawad. Photography by Doaa Elkady. Published by Rodale Books, an imprint of Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Reproduced by arrangement with the Publisher. All rights reserved.
BY SUE SUTHERLAND-WOOD
The humble apple takes centre stage at this time of year, and, as Canadians, we are fortunate to have so many different varieties available. Green, stripey, glossy red or burnished gold — the simple act of apple picking can be a glorious way to spend an afternoon. And a homemade pie, even if it wasn’t made in your home — fragrant with layers of spiced sugary apple sinking beneath a tender crust — is an excellent reward for all that activity.
Like its loftier cousin the vineyard, orchards are the ultimate one-stop shop for the senses. Red-winged blackbirds swoop overhead, piercing the silence with their cries, and apples that have fallen to the ground release a sweet, vinegary smell, as sleepy wasps gorge drunkenly on the cores.
In this contemplative state, my mind turns to all kinds of appley memories: that well-known neighbour on the street who offered shiny-as-glass caramel apples at Halloween; the odd device we used to clip to the table and turn a handle to peel apples in quantity, so that a bright spoonful of autumnal sweetness could be accessed during the dark days of winter; gathering those hard, tiny red globes known as crab apples, rendering our childish mouths bitter and dry, but we continued to chew through tough skins until our tummies hurt.
In Grade 3, I was fascinated by an art project which involved watching the slow decline of an apple we’d carved, destined to become an “apple-head dolly.” I’ve never forgotten this unusual craft, but the thought of ever actually playing with the resulting Georgia O’Keefe on a stick remains distinctly creepy.
My boys looked forward to the tradition of picking apples every year, and I sometimes had to discourage some fruit-related dodgeball. (“Only the ones on the ground, boys!” I hissed, hoping that other, better, parents weren’t
listening.) This always marked the beginning and end of a season; summer was over. But I loved that faintly pioneer feeling of preparation — of taking the bounty home and the residual sparkle that remains after a contented afternoon.
Shrewd marketers have long recognized the appeal of this kind of comfort and offer it up in fast, convenient formats: apple-cinnamon oatmeal, seasonal lattes, pumpkin pie. And, of course, there is a market for this. Not everyone has the time to re-create these flavours at home and yet we crave them, nonetheless. (Pumpkin-spice everything has literally become its own season!) Tiny pops of joy are important no matter how we access them, but the point is we need that joy.
But there can also be sadness when fall arrives. The last days of summer have been truly wrung out and cottages must be sealed up again, and gardens readied for the coming winter.
Despite the inevitable change of temperature, there is still plenty for the senses to experience along the way if
you pay attention. The warm smell of scorched pumpkin as you pry the craggy lid off at the end of Halloween night and blow out the candle. Let’s not forget the intense, yet eerily familiar, smell of well-intentioned pumpkin seeds that have turned to salty cinders in the oven.
I recall my own childhood trickor-treating, and the welcome relief of pulling off a plastic mask at the end of the night, clammy moisture still on my cheeks (entire costume purchased in a bag stamped “CLOWN”). I remember chubby Oktoberfest sausages charring on the grill, waiting to slide into snowy buns and stopping to marvel at jewel-toned leaves everywhere during the satisfying swish-swish of a fall walk.
Today, I recognize a primeval desire to cook in a different way, and the need to make a simple loaf of bread and golden squash-apple soup, with a fluttering of nutmeg on top, becomes a welcome change after the heat of summer. And there is an annual satisfaction that comes with unearthing a favourite sweater and socks to slip into when that certain chill arrives.
Like a child, I once collected a lopsided bouquet of the most colourful leaves, but when I arrived home, I wasn’t quite sure what to do with them. (Even for a romantic like myself, pressing them between waxed paper on a weeknight seemed a bit much.) So, I scattered them artfully down the middle of the table at dinner. My family was impressed but within hours, the display was already starting to curl and dry out. I shook the tablecloth outside and watched as the leaves danced away in the wind to join the others. •
SUE SUTHERLAND-WOOD has contributed to many publications, both in print and online, and her short fiction has won awards. Sue enjoys writing personal essays, feature articles and always strives to resonate with the reader. Read more of her work at www. speranzanow.com
SEPT. 22, 2024
OCT.
Unique,
