Mint Winnipeg - May 2021

Judy Lindsay Team Realty A story of legacy and evolution Spring in your step Workplace Wellness The Mint Experience Winnipeg VOL 1 ISS 2 MAY 2021

What is

The Mint Experience is a local magazine that strives to entertain, inform and connect with the Winnipeg community. We truly aim at being an outlet who really cares and nurtures the people who we are fortunate enough to work with and share their stories with our readers.

The Mint Experience

We want to create an experience that can be shared and felt through the pages of our magazine no matter where you are. Our goal at The Mint Experience is to inspire our readers with fresh, smart content. For the foodie, we vow to share great local spots and refreshing beverages.

We strive to look and feel our best with fabulous accessories, all things home and well, life. Diverse in culture and local talent, we highlight extraordinary people, innovative entrepreneurs and the latest musthave finds. Our readers savour and then save each issue to have on hand at the lake or when making reservations at the best restaurants. Our articles are crafted with authenticity for people living right here in Winnipeg.

Join us as we shine a positive light and learn about everything that Winnipeg has to offer.

Visit our website to keep updated on insights, expertise and events from our local influencers and business community.

www.mintmarketingexperience.ca

Subscribe to the Mint Experience Receive this local premiere print right to your mailbox! Visit our website for more details.

The Mint Experience Winnipeg MB Brandon MB

CREATING YOUR SPACE. One detail at a time.

Amber Bauman Professional Interior Designer/Owner Dip.I.D., IDC, NCIDQ

www.greypearldesign.ca amber@greypearldesign.ca 204-509-4020

FIRST WORD From Editor in Chief

JAMIE WILLEY

Volume 1 Issue 2, May 2021 Publisher Mint Marketing Experience Inc.

Editor Jamie Willey

Graphic Designer Ghislaine Moffitt

Writers Geoff Kirbyson Lisa Tachan Darrin Bauming

Growing Strong s we step into spring, we are eager for new growth.

Each season brings us to new points in our lives that serve purpose and meaning and now that temperatures are getting warmer, let’s go out and share our growing season.

A

Our cover feature shares a story of legacy and evolution. We learn about the Judy Lindsay Team of where they began and where they are now. Their team cultivates relationships with their clients from tried-and-true techniques to an evolution of growth that shows why they continue to be industry leaders.

We encourage you to add some local flavour to your meals. We love the creativity that encouraged The Shrugging Doctor to bring us their passion for winemaking. To add to our unique tasing flavours this issue, the heart of the home is the kitchen, and the Cabinet Company shares their favorite trends and looks with us.

Mental health is just as important to our lives as physical health.

We were happy to connect with amazing businesses who show us ways to integrate self care into our personal and professional lives. With new growth, comes new looks. Our fashion feature shows some new fashion faves for the spring – from business wear to casual looks.

As we dive into a fresh new season, think of this as your chance to take it all in, see the new growth and explore more of what will make your community flourish and your soul happy.

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Contributing Writers Shelby Wood Kim Raaikamakers Michael van Lierop Patent 5 Distillery

Photographers Studio 78 Daniel Crump Photography

Cover Photo Daniel Crump Photography

PRINT ADVERTISING & DIGITAL MARKETING INQUIRIES FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES Jamie Willey jamie@mintmarketingexperience.ca 204-721-1296

mintmarketingexperience.ca The Mint Experience is published by Mint Marketing Experience Inc. The Mint Experience Winnipeg is published 5 times per calendar year. Articles and art may not be reprinted without written permission from the Publisher. Mint Marketing Experience Inc assumes no responsibility to return any unsolicited editorial or graphic material. Mint Marketing Experience Inc. considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible, although reporting inaccuracies can occur; consequently readers using this information should do so at their own risk.

Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 29 10th Street Unit J Brandon, MB R7A 4E4

CONTENTS 8 20 38 42

IN THIS ISSUE 8

Fashion

18

Wellness

26

Eats & Drinks

42

House & Home

48

Local Culture

FEATURES 8

Spring in Your Step

20

Workplace Wellness

38

Cover Story: Judy Lindsay Team Realty

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CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

JAMIE WILLEY Born and raised in Manitoba, Jamie comes from a long line of entrepreneurs.

Owner of Studio 78 Lofts, and Editor in Chief of The Mint Experience, Jamie has a soft spot for the fearless business community. Combining her creative photography talents with her business roots, she is proudly bringing stories and inspiration with Westman’s best magazine. Jamie has a love for cooking, and of course delicious wines. She is very proud of her two boys, Braden and Nate, who never cease to amaze her with their wit, humour and compassion.

DARRIN BAUMING A lover of the outdoors with an affinity to learn about the flora and fauna around him, Darrin is always looking to broaden his appreciation for the natural world.

Cherishing the aesthetic factors in his environment, joy in Darrin’s life emanates from a healthy garden and smart, warm home design, while recognizing life’s true beauty grows out of quality time spent with family and friends. Darrin is a local and national broadcaster, reporter, and writer covering professional sports for the past decade in his hometown of Winnipeg.

GEOFF KIRBYSON Geoff Kirbyson is a veteran journalist who spent nearly 20 years as a business and sports reporter at the Winnipeg Free Press. He has also written for a wide range of other publications, including Canadian Business magazine, Western Investor, Investment Executive and The Hockey News. He has published two books, “The Hot Line – How the Legendary Trio of Hull, Hedberg & Nilsson Transformed Hockey and Led the Winnipeg Jets to Greatness” and “Broken Ribs & Popcorn – How the Winnipeg Jets Became the Best Team of the NHL’s Most Offensive Era to Not Win the Stanley Cup.”

LISA CRESS Lisa Cress is an advertising specialist, writer and wannabe fantasy author living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She started her freelance career under the name Slay it in Writing in 2019 and has had the opportunity to write and create for a variety of publications and companies. Her expertise is in connecting businesses to their audiences with copy and creative that engages, entertains and inspires. Get in touch with her at slayitwithlisa@gmail.com.

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SHELBY WOOD Shelby absolutely has a deep appreciation for food, and is working on putting together a cookbook, which is a real passion project for her. Since her Dad passed pretty horrifically 3 years ago she found herself searching for understanding and mainly ways to work through trauma and grief. For Shelby, food it is not only nourishment, but a real form of love, bringing people together in a special way. Especially right now with what is going on in our world, it can connect us from right inside our homes. The kitchen is the heart, it’s where the tunes get turned up! “Probably embarrassingly, if you could be a fly on the wall, as I sing into my kitchen utensil, and sassily dance like I’m Beyonce, but hey, that’s the joy!” says Shelby

MICHAEL VAN LIEROP Michael van Lierop is President & Founder of New Outlook Wealth, a Manitobabased wealth & advisory firm that brings financial planning and low investment management fees to all Canadians, regardless of their wallet size. Visit their website at www.newoutlook.ca to learn more and to find an advisor!

KIM RAAIJMAKERS Kim Raaijmakers is a mom of two, a business professional of 20+ years and personal development junkie turned transformation coach. Kim is helping women leaders create their best lives, by creating clarity of their vision, developing undeniable belief and discovering strategies that make success inevitable. What began as a personal journey, she has turned into a mission to help women experience the same freedom. Reach out through email: info@kimraaijmakers.com or follow on facebook for tons of tips @facebook.com/kimraaijmakerscoaching.

ANNA DUMAS Anna is an avid food lover. She has worked in the restaurant industry since she was 18, and specializes in mixology and bartending, and is the Taproom Manager at Black Wheat Brewing. Anne is well known for her unique love of Tequila, Orange, and Cinnamon. She has a passion for wine, and took her WSET level 2 Wine and Spirits course at Banville & Jones. Her two children take up any additional time she has, unless it’s selflessly trying wines and making pairing notes for Mint.

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FASHION

Spring in your step FASHION BY STYLE BAR PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

Well ladies it has been quite the year for fashion that’s for sure… masks and matching sweat suits really did take over.

But... coming into spring... fashion is making a major comeback! We want to make sure that you are prepared to be back on your style A-game. We are stocked up & have all the latest spring “runway” trends on deck!

Tina Tank $49.00 Baltimore Jean $84.00 What can we say... after months of being trapped inside wearing nothing but our comfy sweats and old T’s, it’s no surprise that we want to dress up in some cute frills! Pair a pretty floral tank, with a pair of Straight Leg Jeans and an instantly chic look!

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Aliza Tank Dress $62.00 Boho vibes are all the rage.

From tiered midi dresses to cute brimmed hats; we are seeing some major prairie aesthetics. Easy throw on dresses like this one are comfy, and functional! They can easily be dressed up or down, add your favorite hat, or a jean jacket to finish this outfit off.

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Dolce Blouse $59.00 Baltimore Jean $84.00 With working via zoom these days, having a great blouse is a must. Satin is making a comeback and we are here for it! Throw on a pair of jeans and booties with any of the satin blouse options and you will surely turn some heads.

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Aura Tiered Midi Dress $98.00 Flowers, which are said to signify new beginnings, are more than fitting for 2021 spring! Many designers went for the “all over” floral look this year which screams ultra flirtatious! Wear to a backyard BBQ, or a socially distanced wedding, its always great to have a fun option in your closet!

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Love is in the hair

BY KATIE MINSHULL

There are good hair days and then there are days where your hair has never looked better and you hope to run into everyone you know on your daily travels. We all want that look every day and here are a key hair rules to stick to for happy, healthy hair.

Always use professional products from your hairstylist! Not only are you supporting their small business, but you are also protecting your expensive hair colour.

Drugstore products are full of fillers, sulfites, and yucky ingredients that are only going to make your colour fade faster and create a layer of buildup on your hair.

ALWAYS shampoo twice! This is one

I am always shocked that people don’t know about. Ideally, you should only wash your hair every 3-4 days, and when you wash less frequently, you need to do a deeper shampoo.

When you shampoo the first time, lather won’t form the first time as you are removing all of the product buildup on your hair ie. hairspray, dry shampoo, oils. The second shampoo lathers and ensures that there is nothing left over and that is when you are cleansing your strands.

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Katie’s must have hair products for your most gorgeous strands ever!

c. Voir Luxury Hair Oil — This

product smells heavenly and is Canadian-made!

Perfect for smoothing before you blowdry or adding a bit of shine to 3-day-old hair.

a. Olaplex no. 3 — This product is

designed to repair your hair from the inside out. Have damaged hair from too much bleach? This is going to save it! This at home treatment restores your hair’s healthy appearance and texture by repairing damage and protecting hair structure.

Katie specializes in balayage and foilayage – handpainting hair. Her creative skills, stunning hair shades will leave you with dimensional, lived-in hair coloring. Balayage is an art, and Katie is your go to artist.

b. Detangler — Not

only is this a great product to use when your hair is wet before you brush it, but it is amazing in our cold Winnipeg winters in your hair when its dry to tame down static. A perfect balance for moisture and protein to protect your hair.

KATIE MINSHULL

Styled by Katie katieminshull1@gmail.com www.styledbykatie.ca

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Great make up starts with great skin

BY BOBBI TANGUAY, PRIMPED & POLISHED

Natural, “no makeup/makeup” is about fine layers, blended well, and using more sheer textures to define features. To achieve this look, it’s so very important to start with a good base. Skin care is a part of the make up process and adding this to your routine will give you the best results.

Skin prep is so important to achieve a flawless makeup look. Before applying your makeup, you always want to cleanse your skin, add your serums, (my favorite is vitamin C it helps brighten your skin) next, apply your sunscreen or spf. As we are coming into the warmer, summer months, don’t skimp on the sunblock or SPF before applying your makeup – your skin will thank you!

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Whether you are in your 20s or in your 60s, a nice, soft wash of mineral foundation will instantly even out your skin tone and give a healthy boost.

Mineral foundation/powders are my favorite product in the summer. Mineral foundations are made from natural materials and are great options for every skin type - it won’t clog your pores and look overdone or too heavy.

As much as we love experimenting with makeup, using shimmers or metallic finishes on mature skin tends to enhance imperfections rather than compliment the face. Opt for a matte foundation and bronzer for the best outcome.

“Although your makeup has SPF, you still want to apply sunscreen under your foundation.”

Monochromatic makeup is making it’s way this spring and into the summer! By using the hues from the same family in the color wheel, this looks creates soft color all over the face. A pro tip is using a bronzer to contour your face and also use it in the crease of your eyes!

This will add definition to the eyes and give a bronzed look. You can also use blush on your eyes for a pop of color and a monochromatic look. Try this beauty look as it’s flattering on everyone and easily adaptable using any hue.

Are you looking to freshen up your make up routine (or finally begin!?!). My private make up lessons are the perfect solution for you. From skin prep to foundation application to the final touches, your personalized lesson will help you discover the best products for you and polish up your make up skills. Bring your brushes and your computer for your virtual lesson.

BOBBI TANGUAY

Primped & Polished 204-807-0068 primpedndpolished@gmail.com

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WORK ESSENTIALS Polished, versatile styles to upgrade your work at home or office looks.

What is women’s business attire?

Women’s business attire includes dressy shirts, dress pants, pencil skirts, blazers, and women’s suits so you can dress for success in the office.

Our upmarket and stylish designs are from Joseph Ribkoff and are formed around the ‘Essential’s line” that come in various colours with sizes from 2-22.

Muse Bridal Studio 29 10th Street, Brandon MB 204-727-5248 hello@musebridal.ca www.musebridal.ca

WELLNESS

Become the Master Storyteller of Your Life

BY KIM RAAIJMAKERS

Once upon a time there was a ……

Your mind is already filling in a whole scenario of characters, the quest and likely speeding right onto the ending.

Your life is the same as a fairy tale, you get to choose how it goes and how it ends. The only difference between a fairy tale and your life, is your willingness to believe in what is possible.

Why is the story you believe in important?

Because we all tell stories! All day, every day!

As humans we process and remember information best when we tell it in a story.

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What about the stories that you are telling yourself in your own mind? These stories you have created over time so that you could process and remember information. These stories you created and told yourself countless times over the years, have formed your values, beliefs, mindset, actions and ultimately the outcomes of your life.

What if these stories, while useful when you created them, now no longer serve you?

So often I have found myself saying ‘I can’t do......’ and when I look back it is a story I created around why the first time I tried it didn’t work – a fairy tale. So in order for me to feel better about failing, I just comforted myself with I can’t. This kept me safe for every time in the future that a similar situation would come up.

A masterful storyteller can adapt, change and re-write the stories they tell their audiences to suit the needs of that audience.

path. You can scale mountains, fly across oceans and leap between tall buildings in a single bound. Create the story that encompasses the very best of what you want to realize.

Make this story has real as possible. What does it look like, in complete 3D, technicolor? What does is smell like? What does it feel like? Create an experience that includes all your senses.

Believe that this fairy tale can and will become reality.

Except now I want to change and try something new.

That’s scary and my brain goes into it’s protection mode and begins to tell me the same fairy tale. We all have one that begins to play as soon as we want to try something new.

What if instead of listening to this one, we are able to change and adapt?

A masterful storyteller can adapt, change and re-write the stories they tell their audiences to suit the needs of that audience.

So can you.

A change is only scary if you perceive it that way and focus on the worst that could happen. To make effective change, create an empowering story, one where you are the hero conquering all the villians and obstacles in your

If you can hold it in your mind, you can hold it in your hands.

Now you have primed your brained to actively go out and achieve the reality that you have created in your brain. Will you achieve exactly what you wanted in your new story? You could, and even if you didn’t you would still have achieved so much more than you had otherwise. AND you will feel so much more empowered and motivated in this empowering fairy tale.

So will you begin crafting a new story that serves you, empowers you for the most important audience in your life? Yourself?

You have it all inside of you to become the Master Storyteller of your life, if you’re willing to make that choice and do the work to change!

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WORKPLACE WELLNESS Culture & Care

BY STEFANIE BARANOWSKI

We all know hustle. From a recent graduate entering the workplace, the mom who is trying to balance work and home life to the stresses of remote working. Corporate wellness goes beyond stocking the break room with yogurt and granola. Whether you are introducing a wellness program, or looking for ways to improve your current initiatives, you are on your way to creating a healthier workplace environment – where healthier

fit the narrative of the workspace. The first step is defining what wellness means to you in your workplace and in your community of co-workers.

employees are happier, and happier employees are more productive, which leads to corporate financial health and growth.

decline as you struggle to meet deadlines and the demands of your job. Sometimes when we are stressed it can become so easy to get wrapped up into that circle of gossip or to lash out in frustration or stress as a co-worker.

WHY IS CORPORATE WELLNESS IMPORTANT? It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the workday and to let your mental and physical health

WHAT IS CORPORATE WELLNESS? The workplace is a space we invest a great amount of our time during our waking hours and our co-workers become our own separate community outside of our personal life.

Corporate wellness is just that; wellness in the workplace.

Wellness can be introduced and incorporated into the workplace in a multitude of ways and can be tailored to 20

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Imagine a workspace that felt purposeful, positive, energizing, and rewarding both at the start of your day, throughout your day and at the end of the day. You know you are in a good work environment when your work environment leaves you feeling energized, positive and purposeful as you walk out the doors at the end of the day. A place where you feel mentally, emotionally, and

spiritually healthy, a place where you feel accepted and part of a community.

There is a great deal of research studies that have expressed an increase in job satisfaction and mental well-being when a wellness program is introduced and carried out within the workspace. That a wellness program not just be carried out but that it comes part of the workplace culture. What is buzz word wellness all about? Wellness is the act of regularly practicing or partaking in activities that contribute to positive healthy outcomes in one’s life. These outcomes can be emotional, environmental, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual. Research has shown that companies that regularly engage in Wellness opportunities have seen benefits for their employees, as well as their organizations. Some of the benefits include, but are not limited to: • Improved productivity and performance • Reduced Elevated Health Risks • Reduced Health Care Costs • Reduced Absenteeism among Employees • Improve Employee Recruitment and Retention • Improve and Sustain Morale

WHAT ARE SOME TYPES OF WELLNESS STRATEGIES I CAN START INCORPORATING TO BRING WELLNESS INTO MY WORKPLACE? 1. Showing appreciation amongst your staff/co-workers to develop an energetically positive space 2. Introducing physical fitness to get the endorphins going and keep the body and the mind in good shape 3. Having a quiet space in the office area/meditation area where people can have a space of peace to help manage stress

4. Incorporating team building strategies and workshops to create a more cohesive work environment.

5. Give your co-workers/staff a challenge and encourage towards autonomy over a specific staff to boost confidence and purpose in the workplace.

Diamond Lotus stefanie@diamondlotus.ca diamondlotus.ca

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Sleeping Beauty

A natural way to get a better sleep

BY THE MINT EXPERIENCE

How many of us have gone from working from an office to working from an office on our living room, bedroom, or even your bed? The line of separation between home and work has been all but erased and there seems to be little escape.

Once our salvation and escape, our cozy nook for bedtime reading, cuddling and down time has now been invaded by the #workfrombed and has become our new home office.

Sleep specialists have been telling us for years, the bedroom should be for the three S’s – sleep, sex or for when you are sick. The more you start to use your bedroom for other uses, your brain starts to condition itself and your bedroom is no longer a space to wind down from your day. You’re literally training your brain to be alert.

There are a number of ways scents and essential oils can be used to help us get on the path to a more relaxing sleep pattern. Add a few drops to your bath, light an aromatic candle or mist your pillows with your favorite scent.

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How to make your own pillow mist Add half a cup of water, half a teaspoon witch hazel and 5-7 drops of your favorite essential oil to a spray bottle.

Shake. Gently spray the mist over your pillows before going to bed.

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Jasmine

Soothing scents for a fabulous sleep

Jasmine scents are thought to lead to a more productive sleep, helps you wake up more refreshed and tends to make you feel more alert in the afternoon hours the next day. It eases sleep with its pleasing scent, and seems to reduce movement sleeping and waking up with less anxiety.

Lavender Well known for soothing qualities and most commonly used for relaxation and sleep.

Diffuse lavender an hour or so before turning in to your bedroom for the night. Apply a light rub directly to your feet, temples or wrists - a little goes a long way.

Ylang Ylang It is believed that Ylang Ylang helps release negative emotions, helping you fall asleep faster while reducing stress and anxiety. On top of that, it has a gorgeous scent, a light floral aroma that doubles as a natural air freshener.

Cedarwood If you struggle with insomnia, you may want to try this earthy and smoky scent. Cedarwood boasts natural sedative properties, as it’s believed to be emotionally grounding.

Cedarwood mixes well with lavender for a unique relaxing blend.

Bergamot Extracted from the rinds of the citrus fruit, and is used to flavour Earl Grey Tea. Bergamot tends to elevate moods and alleviate stress.

Unlike other citrus scents, bergamot is calming and possesses sedative qualities.

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Lavender has been suggested as an excellent natural remedy to treat insomnia and improve the sleep quality.

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EATS & DRINKS

deer + almond

The deer + almond experience Great food, fun times and building a strong community in the Exchange District.

Whether popping up at Rainbow Trout festival in July, or on the frozen river in February, we are committed to keeping food fun, fantastic and gourmet.

Mandel Hitzer, chef and owner Daniel King, general manager Emily Butcher, chef de cuisine

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deer + almond 85 Princess St. 204-504-8562 www.deerandlalmond.com

Business Profile | Shrugging Doctor Beverage Co.

Innovation in agriculture paired with a passion for winemaking

BY GEOFF KIRBYSON

Willows Christopher and Zach Isaacs were barely of legal drinking age when they decided to enter the liquor business.

wine, cider, sangria, mead, spirits and other alcoholic beverages and they’re proud to use Manitoba-grown grapes in their recipes.

And they’re proving that experience isn’t necessarily as crucial as you might think in the often-cutthroat sector.

“We have weaponized our naivety and inexperience in the wine industry to create the most unique and innovative business in the category,” Christopher says.

The pair founded Shrugging Doctor Beverage Co. in 2017 when they were 18 years old and today they make a wide variety of products, including

Shrugging Doctor, which produces their liquor out of the same facility where their operate a retail space in St. James, has 15 products on its shelf and it has

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differentiated itself from its competitors by making house calls. Shrugging Doctor will even ship across the country via its website, shrugdoc.com.

Their Wine Bar/Tasting Room is ready to re-open as soon as Covid restrictions allow - offering wine tasting flights, cocktails, charcuterie and more!

They believe that the liquor industry is trailing, well, everything else, in this era of instant gratification. Sure, some liquor and private wine stores offer limited delivery but Christopher and Isaacs believe customers should be able to get what they want almost immediately by pressing a few buttons on their phones.

Since starting out four years ago, the good doctor has steadily expanded his capacity and is now producing about 3,000 cases annually, up from just 500 in its first year. (A case is 12 bottles.)

More than half of the products, including sangria, raspberry wine and apple cider, are available at Liquor Marts across the province.

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WILLOWS CHRISTOPHER AND ZACH ISAACS

UPPSALA SWEET MEAD Smooth & sweet, Uppsala is made from 100% Manitoba wine. Mead is a honey wine – honey and water fermented by yeast. It’s in a distinct category of it’s own, somewhere between beer and wine.

“We focus on unique and great tasting flavours. We have a lot of small batch seasonal products and usually have a new product every month or two,” Isaacs says.

Christopher and Isaacs maintain a vineyard in southern Manitoba where they grow wine grapes.

SANGRIA Bursting with fruit flavour, mixed and infused with real fruit juice with their already tasty cranberry wine. Light and super refreshing

The brand is based on travelling doctors from years gone by who would travel from town to town and sell their miracle remedies and other concoctions to the locals.

Shrugging Doctor Beverage Co. 448b Brooklyn St. Winnipeg @ShrugDoc shrugdoc.com

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3 ways to

celebrate spring

BY ANNA DUMAS

We’ve been cooped up all winter, binging Netflix like there is no tomorrow. Except there is a tomorrow, and it’s looking like a sunny forecast with patios on the horizon.

Let’s take the party outdoors with our 3 spring favorites!

Santa Margherita While getting our backyards ready to hang out in this summer, a dry white wine with crisp green apple flavor is the perfect way to compliment a cold pesto salad, lemon greek rotisserie chicken or cream sauce pasta. This pinot grigio is a medium to full bodied wine, bone dry and a bouquet of intense aromas and complimentary flavors such as apple and citrus.

A typical pinot grigio tends to be light and crisp however the Santa Margherita impresses with flavours immediately hitting the senses while still maintaining the classic pinot grigio grape flavors. A must have for summer barbeques, an aperitif, or a traditional souffle.

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Nau Mai Sauvignon Blanc Blush

AvantGarde Reisling

Rosé wines are typically made from red grapes obtaining their color from a quick contact with the grape skins. This completely unique rosé is a sauvignon blanc grape made with a splash of merlot grape. With mineral notes off the first taste evolving into acidic and sweet tastes this wine will not disappoint. With flavors from raspberry to herbaceous notes it would be a delicious way to compliment some appetizers with friends such as bruschetta, souvlaki or a ham and brie croissant.

The perfect way to “Rosé all day”!

With notes of tree fruit and a hint of vanilla, this reisling will impress. The slight sweetness and medium bodied crisp flavor would pair well with any afternoon lunch featuring a pear and Brie salad. The complimentary flavors of tree fruit and smooth creaminess would bring out any vinaigrette as well as enhance a afternoon on the patio.

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The apple of your eye

BY SHELBY WOOD PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

I

’ve thought a lot as we dig our feet deeper into Spring and how Summer will soon be on the horizon… in that things may feel stagnant in what our world still is going through, but focusing on how with the seasons, the weather changes, our moods shift and how our taste buds do the same.

I want to enjoy my food in a way that is refreshing and with added fun or SASS as I like to say. Making a meal feel like a party in your name.

We all deserve to feel elevated and like there is a playfulness in what we make at times.

While the sun shines in and we feel more vibrant, as we sit down for a meal with the windows open and a breeze flowing, or out on our decks, we get to feel excited for all the bonuses that this time of the year brings to our lives.

Let’s treat it like our own vacation... sip that drink a little slower, savour that bite a bit more and choose to soak up everything that comes to life in these beautiful months. xox Shelby

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Crispy Panko Pork Chops with Apple Arugula Salad Ingredients:

Home made dressing to drizzle:

2-3 cups Panko crumbs

1 tbsp Honey

2 Eggs

2 tbsp Mayo

2 – 3 Pork loin chops

Spice mix:

1 tbsp Paprika 1 tbsp Onion powder 1 tbsp Garlic powder 2 tsp each Salt & Pepper

Salad:

Arugula ½ Granny Smith Apple Handful of Walnuts 2 slices of Havarti cheese, chopped into squares ½ Avocado- chopped into chunks

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp Olive oil Salt & Pepper 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

For the Salad 1.

2.

3.

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Cut off any fat and put a piece of cling wrap over top. If you don’t have a mallet, use a rolling pin. Pound out your pork chops. Flip to other side, and repeat until thin and it should double in size.

Mix together spice mix on a plate and then pat spice onto your pork on both sides.

Coat both sides of spice covered pork with whisked egg.

Coat both sides of pork with your panko crumbs.

Shallow fry in canola oil on medium heat flipping every couple minutes until golden brown, approximately 15-20 minutes.

Cover plate with Arugula Chop apple into little chunks as well as your cheese, walnuts and avocado, and sprinkle over Arugula.

Place cooked pork chop on edge of salad & drizzle with dressing.

Whiskey Lemonade 3 oz whiskey 1 can frozen lemonade 1 Lemon 1 can Perrier Fresh mint Crushed Ice

1.

In a pitcher, pour your frozen lemonade, do not add water.

2.

Add one can Perrier.

3.

Squeeze half of a fresh lemon

4.

Add whiskey and mix.

5.

Add ice and mint.

6.

Garnish with a slice of lemon and enjoy.

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HOME IS WHERE THE GIN IS

BY PATENT 5 DISTILLERY

For those who enjoy a well-made cocktail, it can be tough to recreate the drinks we are used to sipping in local restaurants at home.

Whether it’s a refreshing gin & tonic or a bold gin fizz, we miss our favourite drinks – and you!

Luckily, Patent 5 Distillery is offering at-home cocktail kits with all of the ingredients you need to make a mean drink in your own kitchen.

Patent 5 London Dry gin & tonic kit provides the staples needed to make a top notch classic to enjoy on a warm summers day. Great gin, great tonic — just add plenty of ice and an orange slice. Better yet, they offer a selection of cocktail kits complete with recipe cards and all you’ll need to create bar quality drinks at home.

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“We have an open door policy. Show up with Gin and we’ll let you in” Want to try your hand at something a little more elaborate? A Gin Martini is a great place to start. To make one you’ll need: 2oz Patent 5 London Dry Gin 0.5oz Spanish dry vermouth Combine both ingredients in a cocktail tin or mixing glass and stir for at least 30 seconds — until icy cold! Strain into a stemmed cocktail glass and garnish with an orange zest.

You can find this recipe along with many others on their website at www.patent5.ca/recipes

Patent 5 Distillery 204-808-8614 www.patent5.ca

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COVER FEATURE

An introduction to Judy Lindsay Team Realty The story of legacy and evolution behind one of Winnipeg’s most successful real estate teams.

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY DANIEL CRUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

If you’ve grown up in Winnipeg, there’s a good chance you’ve passed by a Judy Lindsay Team Realty sale sign swinging from a neighbor’s front yard.

Judy Lindsay Team Realty isn’t your traditional real estate team. The Judy Lindsay name has been a staple in the Winnipeg real estate market for several decades. Their collaborative and specialized approach to the business has resulted in an average of 300 homes sold each year, establishing them as one of the top real estate teams in Winnipeg and all of Canada.

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The woman behind the name started a career in real estate in the mid 1980’s. Judy Lindsay recognized the power of specialized expertise and teamwork. She started Judy Lindsay Team Realty and pioneered the team system in 1995.

Lindsay had a successful career in real estate for 19 years.

Before her passing in 2001, she was recognized as one of the top agents in North America. Her legacy and approach to the business continues with her son, Allan Asplin, President, Judy Lindsay Team Realty.

“One of my mom’s final wishes was for us to continue with the business she built.”

- Allan Asplin

their stuff when it comes to build codes, construction, staging and negotiating a sale.

Judy Lindsay found that cultivating a team of experts who focus solely on different areas of the business was a better way to serve home buyers and sellers.

“There are a lot of things that need to happen when you’re buying or selling a home. It’s impossible for one person to do all of those things really well,” Asplin says. “That’s what makes our team different. Each of us is focused to our area of expertise. We make sure every task is carried out properly and effectively.”

ALLAN ASPLIN

“One of my mom’s final wishes was for us to continue with the business she built,” says Asplin. “She has been gone for 20 years now – but it’s still nice when people who bought or sold their home with her want to work with us because of our name.”

The average realtor works alone to secure a sale. Today’s agents are expected to have expert-level knowledge in all facets of the business. A realtor should be privy to the latest marketing trends, advertising tactics and online tools. Among many other things, realtors need to know

When you buy or sell with Judy Lindsay Team Realty, you get the support of listing agents, buying agents, transaction coordinators, marketing specialists and investment specialist.

“Our marketing specialists know how to effectively use social media, ad campaigns and Google AdWords. Our negotiators have the experience in navigating multiple offer situations because that’s what they do all the time.

Our agents are area specific, so if you’re looking for a particular type of home in St. James close to certain amenities, we have perfect person for the job,” explains Asplin. “Our goal is to cover every aspect of the home buying and selling process with the knowledge and expertise it takes to get our clients the best results.”

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Real estate today is certainly a lot more complex and involved than it was just a decade ago. Asplin’s team has grown to reflect the skills necessary to succeed in the market. This includes having in-house graphic designers, videographers and photographers on hand.

“Since the pandemic hit, we’ve really had to lean into being virtual and online,” says Asplin. “People want to see quality photos, videos and virtual tours before making the decision to book a showing. Thankfully, we have people on our team who are dedicated to building and developing our online presence.”

The specialized team system has also led to the development of some truly innovative selling programs.

“A common home seller dilemma is whether you should wait for your home to sell before making bids on a new one,” explains Asplin. “With our Guaranteed Sold program, we offer to buy the client’s house at an agreed upon price if it doesn’t sell within a certain time period.”

Programs like Guaranteed Sold were created to help take the stress and pressure off the seller to make the sale.

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This way, Asplin says, the client can focus their efforts on shopping around for a new home and not have to include the sale of their current home as a condition to buy.

Guaranteed Sold is one of several initiatives exclusively offered by the Judy Lindsay Team. It’s worth noting that these programs haven’t gone unnoticed by other industry professionals.

“About five years ago, we partnered with Shark Tank investor and real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran,” Asplin says. “It’s been really great to learn from her over the years. She’s become an invaluable advisor to our team.”

Despite how Judy Lindsay Team Realty operates like an efficient, fine-tuned machine, Asplin hasn’t lost touch with the very human roots of the business.

“Choosing a real estate professional should be a decision based on results, reputation and the comfort of a strong relationship built on trust,” Asplin says. “It’s never been about the sale for me. Personally, it’s been more important to maintain my mom’s name and her legacy by supporting our community and doing right by our clients.”

Realty, you can expect them to go above and beyond to help you sell your home.

“One of our core values as an organization is being like a good friend to our clients,” Asplin explains. “Sometimes people just don’t have the time or money to paint their walls or repair their floors, so we will offer to step in and help, as a friend would. We look for opportunities to help our client get the job done and get the most out of the sale.”

Judy Lindsay Team Realty’s specialized system has led to innovative seller programs, proven results and many happy buyers and sellers. Under Asplin’s careful leadership, there’s no doubt we will continue to see Judy Lindsay’s sale signs swaying on front lawns for years to come.

Judy Lindsay Team Realty 1919 Portage Ave, Winnipeg 204-925-2900 www.judylindsay.com

Like the friend who drops everything to help you in a time of crisis, when you work with Judy Lindsay Team The Mint Experience Winnipeg

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HOUSE & HOME

THE BIDDING WAR TREND IN REAL ESTATE What’s causing them? Are they here to stay? Allan Asplin, President, Judy Lindsay Team Realty explains what’s behind the latest real estate trend. asking and sellers would counter, asking a little more, but throwing in the basement pool table.

Deal!

Today, these charming scuffles are a thing of the past. If you’ve been watching the housing market in Manitoba, you’re witnessing a different road to homeownership – and it’s a road that ends in a blind bid blood bath.

While it’s certainly not the case every time (and happens less than you imagine!), we’re seeing a trend where homes that receive multiple offers sell for significantly above their asking prices. In real estate circles, the trend is known as a “bidding war”.

ALLAN ASPLIN

The road to homeownership is paved with endless viewings, open houses, possibility and disappointment.

Not long ago, securing your dream home ended in a playful tussle with countering offers testing the limits of sellers and buyers. Buyers would offer a little under 42

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“The supply and demand for real estate is certainly a factor in what’s happening right now,” says Allan Asplin, President, Judy Lindsay Team Realty. “In actuality, the same number of houses coming to market - but with low interest rates and investors looking for rental properties, there are more buyers than there are houses for sale.”

Asplin believes that there is also a psychological element at play.

“People do irrational things when they’re stressed and needless to say, it’s been a stressful past year,” Asplin says. “Buyers who have been looking for a while become afraid they’re never going to get a house, which results in dramatic bids for a place they don’t want to lose. This causes an artificial inflation in pricing. We know the price isn’t reasonable, but it’s driven by emotions.”

When today’s buyers put an offer in on a home, it’s not uncommon to be in a situation where their bid is competing against other offers.

“The code realtors follow is in place to make it fair for everyone,” Asplin says. “The agent representing the seller cannot disclose any details of any offer to another party. All they can disclose is that there are multiple offers and may advise their client to put in a competitive bid. Just how competitive that bid is, is up to the prospective buyer.”

Understandably, buyers who are frustrated, stressed and tired of walking away with a losing bid may make an emotional offer in an effort to end their search and secure a home.

Is there any end to this in sight? Unfortunately, Asplin believes homebuyers will continue to make dramatic bids into the foreseeable future.

“This trend is here to stay as long as interest rates remain low, people have their jobs and there’s a belief that the market is limited,” Asplin says. “If you’re a buyer, be patient. Yes, it’s a crazy market - but work with your realtor and know your numbers. Home ownership is a long-term investment. At the end of the day, you should feel good about what you paid for you home.”

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On the

SURFACE

BY THE CABINET CO & DARRIN BAUMING

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On the surface, counter top and backsplash choices seem simple. Find a colour and style you like, order, install, and you’re set.

Look closer, and there’s more than meets the eye if you desire upgraded surfaces in your home. Whether a new kitchen countertop, shower or bathroom surface, or maybe the addition of a feature wall in a living space, there are numerous considerations in ensuring you find something ideal for your lifestyle.

Popular surfaces include natural materials like granite and more recently wood, while human-made materials like quartz, laminate and Corian offer a variety of colour and finish options in a wide array of price points.

QUARTZ Quartz has emerged as a very popular choice, but horizontal kitchen and bathroom surfaces are not the only places quartz is leaving an impression. New trends have seen thin slices of quartz — unlike the thick pieces used for counters — being used in place of tile. With clean, warm textures and shades, quartz can add glamorous appeal to a fireplace, shower surround, or backsplash.

Why not create feature wall? Bring quartz into a new living space to add some shine.

While lack of heat resistance remains the primary consideration in quartz, its low overall maintenance makes it an attractive choice.

CORIAN

GRANITE

Corian offers near-endless possibilities. A brand name product, Corian is manufactured by blending acrylic polymers with stone-derived materials, presenting countless colour and pattern options that can emulate almost any natural stone or even wood.

There is little surprise why granite has remained an industry standard for many years. While in the upper tiers of pricing, granite is still a leading choice because of is its near-unmatched quality and the lasting value it provides.

While strong, easy-care, and stain-resistant, Corian can be damaged. But reassurance can be taken in that it has a repairable finish. What truly stands out is its ability to provide that seamless look with a joint-free installation.

Far from plain in look and feel, granite is just plain gorgeous.

Imagine a waterfall countertop fluidly cascading from the backsplash to the countertop and then horizontally down the sides of your bottom cabinetry. While expensive, Corian offers application flexibility no other material can provide.

Atop the checklist; great durability and heat resistance, excellent colour and visual texture options, in addition to the added re-sale value granite provides if you ever decide to sell your home.

While price is often the overwhelming reason people look beyond granite, maintenance is another consideration to keep in mind. Some granite needs to be resealed from time to time as it is porous, leading to the chance of staining and acid etching.

LAMINATE Laminate countertops have been around, it seems, forever.

But they now offer the look of more expensive and higherend options. Be careful though, as heat can severely damage laminate surfaces. With plenty of options at the fraction of the cost of others, laminate may be the right choice for you.

WOOD Wood countertops? Oh, yes. The butcher block wood is now technologically advanced to be fully food-safe, waterproof, and impact resistant with a specialized sealing process. Matte finish results, in maple, cherry, walnut, and more.

Handcrafted by Canadian artisans, Caribou block wood surfaces provide applications from countertops and tables, to shelving, mantels, or any other application imaginable. cariboublock.com Whether you seek lasting quality, great value, or a look like no other, you can find the surface for your home to fit any lifestyle.

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HYDRANGEAS

The Beauty of the Ball

BY THE MINT EXPERIENCE

An old fashioned charm that’s hard to resist. We love hydrangeas for their immense, colorful flower heads and their low maintenance care so that we can take the time to appreciate their beauty.

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These elegant shrubs are easy to cultivate, will tolerate almost any soil – making them a prairie favorite – and produce fabulous blooms. Hydrangeas are ideal for gardeners of all skill levels and can accommodate many backyard styles – from containers to large groups to border plantings.

When to plant hydrangeas Hydrangeas make for exceptionally beautiful container plants. To plant your hydrangeas, it is best to plant them in the spring after the last frost or in the fall before the first frost. Be sure to plant them before the summer heat arrives.

Where to plant hydrangeas These girls know the effects of the sun and prefer to be planted in partially sunny areas. Ideally, full sun in the morning and partially shaded later in the day to be protected from the hot midday sun. While some varieties are more tolerant of the heat from the full sun, too much heat can lead to wilting.

Your hydrangeas know the benefits of H2O, so plant them in well draining soils that receive plenty of water.

IN THE FLOWER WORLD, THEY ALSO SYMBOLIZE GRATITUDE FOR BEING UNDERSTOOD.

How to plant hydrangeas When planting a number of hydrangeas, plant them 3 to 10 feet apart, depending on the type and the space available. Dig a hole as deep as the root, and about 3 times as wide. Set the plant in the middle and fill it halfway with soil, and then water. Once the water is absorbed, fill the rest of the hole with soil. Water once more.

Caring for your hydrangea These beauties love love love water, so be sure they are getting plenty. In their growing season, water at a rate of 1 inch per week. It is best to give them a deep watering 2-3 times per week as it will encourage root growth. It’s best to water them early in the day to prepare them for the afternoon heat.

No need for additional fertilizer if your soil is already rich. Too much fertilizer will bring out more leaves at the expense of the blooms. Specific varieties do require difference applications of fertilizer at different intervals throughout the year.

The word hydrangea comes from the Greek “hydor” meaning water. You will be sure to notice how your beauty loves and soaks in the water! In the flower world, they also symbolize gratitude for being understood. The sheer size of the blooms are sure to leave its admirers in awe for their sweet scent and vibrant colors.

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LOCAL CULTURE Business Profile | We Got This Canada

Make an impact … every bit counts!

Building a caring and inclusive society where everybody is well nourished, supported and nurtured.

WE GOT THIS CANADA’S MISSION IS TO PROVIDE NUTRITION, ASSISTANCE AND ENGAGEMENT TO LOW INCOME FAMILIES, INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES, SPECIAL NEEDS AND SENIORS. On Saturday, April 24, Andrew Smith, MLA Lagimodiere, joined the volunteers at We Got This Canada as they packed emergency hampers. He will volunteered his 48

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time and shared words of encouragement for these inspiring individuals who make it a priority to help fellow Winnipeggers in need.

Each of these emergency hampers contains essentials like milk, eggs, bread, fresh produce, pasta, cereal and canned food and more, all donated by the generous people of Winnipeg and local businesses coming forward to support the community. Join the team of volunteers for some exclusive content and insight into the process.

They have served over 20,000 Winnipeggers and amassed a strong team of over 70 volunteers in less than a year.

MORE ON WE GOT THIS CANADA We Got This Canada, a local organization that started as a Facebook group during the first lockdown of COVID has now become one of Canada’s fastest-growing non-profits.

They have served over 20,000 Winnipeggers and amassed a strong team of over 70 volunteers in less than a year.

A few weeks back, the Legislative Assembly honoured Rashmi Saxena and Ankur Aneja (Co-Founders) for their contribution to the community.

From Tuesday night Pizza meals to boxed suppers, the team at We Got This Canada tries to find innovative ways to make giving back to the community more fun and exciting.

We Got This Canada 204-480-8590 contactus@wegotthiscanada.org www.wegotthiscanada.org

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Times have changed. Is your business a cyber target?

BY DANNY TAYLER, IT ADVISORS

In this digital age, things change fast. Especially since the onset of Covid-19, cyber attacks have increased dramatically. The big question is, what would YOUR business do in a cyber incident?

There are many things to consider. You can no longer be reactive to situations like this, similarly you can’t go buy fire insurance after your business has a fire. You need to have a business continuity plan, to make sure you have everything in order. Cyber insurance is also a must!

Well, why is this a problem now, when you have run your business the same way for years without an issue?

Cyber crime is worth trillions of dollars every year. You’re not protecting yourself against some lone bad actor in their mom’s basement. You are now on the defense against organized crime, paying elite hackers six figures or more to break into businesses just like yours. In fact, most compromises are not discovered for more than 90 days. Can you imagine what a hacker can steal from your computers in three months? They will get your

passwords. They will steal your contacts. They will see how much you’re worth and calculate how much of a ransom you are likely to pay. They will then disable your backups, steal your data, and execute a crypto ransom plan to paralyze your business.

Did you know that the Canadian Government has made it mandatory to report any cyber breach that exposes PII (Personally Identifiable Information)? That includes information such as Names, Birthdays, SIN, Email Addresses, and Phone Numbers!

So how much can a breach actually cost? The average breach now costs more than a million dollars. How? 1. The Ransom 2. The Government Fines 3. The Breach Mitigation 4. The Lost Revenue while down

DANNY TAYLER, IT ADVISORS

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5. The Lost Customer Revenue going forward.

You may say, “I’m not worried, that’s what insurance is for”. In cases like the RM of Gladstone cyber attack, at the time of their media release they had gone 10 months without insurance paying out the half a million dollars that was stolen from them. Insurance requirements are swiftly changing. Most will now deny your claim for gross negligence unless you are following best practices.

Cyber attacks are happening in Westman. Some are reported, and others are not. Canadian privacy laws do require you report any suspected breach of Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Remediation costs are high and will affect both your reputation and your profitability.

What are best practices? In short, you need to use an MSP (Managed Service Provider). They also need to be capable of cyber security for your business. What are some of the specific requirements your business needs to implement?

• Firewalls

• Multi Factor Authentication • Identify locations with PII • Encryption for endpoints • Offsite Backups • Have a business continuity plan • Cyber Training for your employees • Dark Web Monitoring Contact us to book time for your free strategy call.

IT Advisors / Brandon Computers Danny Tayler 204-717-4365 www.ITAdvisors.ca

• Antivirus

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6 Reasons

why you need a digital marketing strategy in 2021

Entrepreneurs are continually changing and creating ways to make it possible to grow and find new opportunities. Paired with traditional marketing strategies, effective digital techniques complement other methods of marketing.

The internet allows us to reach a whole new market.

Digital marketing has become the norm for a successful business, make sure you are maximizing your digital efforts.

Digital marketing brings opportunities and growth, leading to increased and consistent exposure, more sales and a positive shift to your goal to increase your profits.

Digital marketing comes in various forms: PPC OR PAY-PER-CLICK: It’s a marketing strategy that will draw paid traffic to your business website. The advertiser will pay the publisher every time their ad has been clicked.

SOCIAL MEDIA: It involves platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and more. Promote your brand with valuable content and communicate with your customers.

SEO: This is a marketing strategy that requires businesses to focus on increasing their websites ranking to increase their traffic. The higher your website ranks on Google’s SERP, the more chances it is to grow your brand.

CONTENT MARKETING: It’s a strategy that allows businesses to bring their customers valuable content, focusing on value to attract customers.

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VIDEO MARKETING: A popular and effective marketing content that will bring more customers to your business. Use it to promote your brand, product, show behind the scenes of your business, share stories and testimonials.

EMAIL MARKETING: It’s one of the oldest forms of digital marketing that has one of the highest ROI, by sending out personalized emails to a target audience.

Why Digital Marketing is Important for your Business 1 | YOUR CUSTOMERS ARE ONLINE

The online market is the best way to expose your business.

When people hear about your business, they want to learn more about it and will check your presence online to know if you do exist.

If people can’t find anything about you online, chances are you’ll lose them as a customer.

2 | COST-EFFECTIVE AND FASTER

Digital marketing is affordable, and your business can start the process immediately. If you have limited time and resources, spending money to advertise traditionally is not enough.

3 | INCREASED ROI

Many businesses claim that doing advertisements online, whether it is paid or free, has an increased return on investment. It’s possible to have a higher conversion rate

or return on investment because most of your customers can be seen online.

Get to know your target audience and lay out a strategy that will turn your leads into customers.

4 | YOU CAN REACH OUT TO YOUR CUSTOMERS

When you can build a good relationship with your audience, it can boost your business. Build relationships with customers by reaching out to answer their questions, solve issues and turn them into repeat customers.

5 | CATERS TO MOBILE PHONE USERS

There are billions of people using their mobile phones to do research or scroll through social media. When using digital marketing, you can reach out to these people. You can promote your business in ways that mobile phone users are the target.

6 | ESTABLISH YOUR BRANDS REPUTATION

Digital marketing will give your business a chance to establish a rapport, allowing you to show your customers what your business is made of and how you can help them with their needs.

Digital marketing is crucial in the survival of today’s businesses. Mint Marketing Experience can help. Working together, we will show you that your company has a lot of potential to expand because of it.

DIGITAL MARKETING IS CRUCIAL IN THE SURVIVAL OF TODAY’S BUSINESSES.

Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 204-721-1296 jamie@mintmarketingexperienceca

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Community Profile | Town of Neepawa

Town of Neepawa

Where Stories Take a Beautiful Turn

BY GEOFF KIRBYSON

If you’re getting tired of your more than year-long staycation, Neepawa might be just the boost you need to get over the pandemic blues.

Even better — be prepared to sweat.

Located about a two-hour drive northwest of Winnipeg, the town of nearly 5,000 people has a number of natural attractions that can get your COVID-19 body back in fighting shape. All of them are on the province’s list of acceptable activities while also allowing for social distancing.

The Back Forty Trail Park offers a 5.1-km cycling course with various levels of difficulty, including a pump track and a skills loop. Technical features of the park, which is natural grade plus man-made hills, include work and wood drops, table top jumps, wall rides, log rides and plenty of berms. It’s open year-round and can accommodate cyclists, walkers and runners and is ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing in the winter.

There’s also the Great Trail, 10 km of winding terrain that will surely satisfy the outdoor enthusiast in your group. If you aren’t exactly sure where it is, don’t worry, there are plenty of way-finding signs around town to point you in the right direction.

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If you like your pace a little slower, the Neepawa Golf & Country Club offers 18 challenging holes along the winding Whitemud River. If you need to get some of the rust off your swing, they’ve got a 20-tee driving range, too.

Estate Brewery, the only brewery in Canada that grows its own ingredients.

Plan your visit at www.neepawatourism.ca

Keep your head up, though. The Neepawa course is known for the wildlife that meander across the fairway with little notice.

No matter what you choose to do, there is perhaps no better way to finish off than with a visit to the Farmery

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Business Profile | Lakehouse

A Contact-Free Experience

Lakehouse Properties Uses Lockdown to Upgrade Operations

BY GEOFF KIRBYSON

The COVID-19 pandemic has turned our lives upside down but Karly McRae took her new-found free time and overhauled her business to compete both today and when life returns to normal.

The managing partner of the Lakehouse Properties in Wasagaming in Riding Mountain National Park — include the 15-room Lakehouse hotel and the Arrowhead property, which has 33 rooms, ranging from studios to three-bedroom loft suites — examined her operations and identified a number of ways in which technology could improve things, particularly contactless procedures.

“We quickly built an online ordering system for our restaurant, expanded our takeout menu and began delivering grocery packages and take-home meals.

We worked hard to expand our online offering to help diversify our revenue streams. We have built a contactless check-in system as well as a text-based concierge service for hotel guests, so our hotel experience is completely contact-free,” she says.

The government-imposed lockdowns in the first COVID-19 wave meant Parks Canada facilities were closed from March 17 to June 1 last year, resulting in the closure of all visitor services and vehicle traffic to Riding Mountain.

“The townsite was literally barricaded, resulting in zero percent occupancy at Lakehouse during the closure and the inability to even offer take-out. During those months, not only did we face a zero-revenue situation, but we were also refunding deposits from cancellations on hotel room bookings throughout the closure period and beyond,” she says.

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We are excited to announce some exciting changes at Lakehouse and for summer 2021. Last spring, during the height of the first lockdown, we decided to make a bold but necessary choice to move the Ice Cream Shop out of the Lakehouse building to allow more space for socially distanced tables in our restaurant, space for our hotel guests to check in, and for our customers to feel safe.

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back packs, jackets, wool blankets, hats, toques, soy candles and more!

McRae believes there are opportunities to be found in every challenge, whether it’s personally or professionally. “Don’t get me wrong, I have had moments of hopelessness and feelings of immense frustration, but I try to focus my energy on what I have the power to change and how we can adapt creatively and make things work,” she says.

We doubled down and invested in fully renovating one of the storefronts in the Danceland building to become a shiny, bright new Ice Cream Shop. Fast forward to today, and we are excited to announce that we have sold the Ice Cream Shop portion of Lakehouse to our new friends from @Velvetdip in Brandon!! Anyone from the Westman area knows that Velvet Dip is a pillar of the community and the name is synonymous with all things Ice Cream.

We knew we didn’t want just anyone taking over this space, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome Velvet Dip Lakeside to @clearlakecountry.

Over the next couple of weeks you will see some small renovations happening to the former Ice Cream Shop space at Lakehouse to make way for an updated cafe and retail offer featuring our very own line of ‘Lakehouse Adventure Goods’. Stay tuned, new stock will be coming in each week and we cant wait for you to see our new line!

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Clear Lake has traditionally been a three-season destination, but McRae has worked hard over the years to transform Arrowhead and the Wasagaming townsite into year-round attractions. “I love winter and think that there is so much potential for the development of unique tourism products centred around winter,” she says, noting that includes a pair of outdoor skating rinks at Arrowhead.

McRae chairs the Clear Lake Country Destination Marketing Organization and she believes businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the health and culture of their communities, improve destinations and to help them grow and reach their full potential.

“Clear Lake Country is focused on driving visitation to Riding Mountain National Park in all four seasons and within the last six years visitation has nearly doubled. We have invested heavily in destination marketing and have partnered with Travel Manitoba to raise the profile of our destination,” she says.

“It has been a year of constant retraining and learning.” - Karly McRae “I still have lots of ideas and plans. I have learned so much over the last seven years and I think it is so important to approach business with a desire to be constantly learning, constantly reinventing yourself in some way and constantly growing. If I ever stop approaching things that way I think that will be my indication that it is time to move on.”

The most difficult thing for McRae over the past 15 months has been guiding her staff through the never-ending stream of unknowns and constantly-changing regulations.

“Training them to essentially be enforcement officers for the health regulations of the given day and supporting them through the sometimes not-so-kind feedback and opinions from the public on things completely out of their control has been tough,” she says. “It has been a year of constant retraining and learning. People deal with and react to the need to change in very different ways and for some people that aspect of the pandemic has been extremely challenging. Of course, the stresses involved with shut-downs, laying off staff who are like family and the struggle to gear up and reopen quickly have been very real and difficult, too.”

McRae never set out to become an entrepreneur and own her own company.

She went to university but a political science degree wasn’t going to be much use in business. Growing up on a farm on the eastern boundary of Riding Mountain, however, she developed a strong work ethic.

“I learned to fix things and problem solve, to be resilient and was taught that if you need something, you build it, find it, fix it, work for it -- earn it,” she says.

“The national park was literally my backyard and as a result I feel extremely connected to it. I grew up tromping around in the bush with my dad, hiking the backcountry or riding around on a tractor. We grew literally everything we ate. My grandmother had a huge greenhouse

and gardens. Summers were spent weeding, picking vegetables, shelling peas, husking corn and canning or freezing everything we could. I think that is really what drives my entrepreneurial spirit.”

Lakehouse 204-848-7366 www.staylakehouse.ca

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TRAVELING without a (financial) plan?

BY MICHAEL VAN LIEROP, NEW OUTLOOK WEALTH

When travel becomes possible again, the pent-up demand will see a rebound in ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations to Mexico and the Caribbean, and European sight-seeing tours. The “things to have” will be replaced, once again and perhaps with greater fervour than ever before, with the “things to do”. There is already prepandemic evidence of a consumer shift away from major expenditures on things towards experiences. Expect air travel to spike, live concert tickets to be more valuable than ever, and businesses looking to capitalize on this rise in tourism benefiting from the surge in demand.

As most of the world enters a second year of restricted travel due to the pandemic, travel for many will remain either a hyper-local phenomena or a distant dream in 2021. As household budgets get re-allocated, normally reserved for snowbird escapes to sunshine destinations in the winter, money is flowing instead into “things” such as hot tubs, luxury BBQs, and back yard landscaping projects. Indeed, with lumber shortages spiking the price of wood products from the lowly 2-by-4 to sheets of plywood tripling in cost, even the seemingly innocuous deck and fence projects of the passed have become major financial decisions, not to mention the home renovation adventures many a household has embarked on in the past year.

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What does this mean for you? It means the temptation to overspend, or over-borrow, to have these experiences and make up for more than a year of home-bound virtual escapes (courtesy of a fluid mix of Netflix and Amazon binge-worthy series, Spotify music, and good old-fashioned books) is significant and impossible to ignore. It all boils down to spending choices and how those choices are funded.

What we’re talking about, really, is what’s known as “discretionary spending” – how you use the surplus you have at the end of the month, after you pay your bills, pay the rent or mortgage, put food on the table, and gas in the car. Ideally, it’s also surplus you have left after you hit your savings targets and/or debt reduction goals.

If you’re thinking, “wait, I don’t have anything left” then you may benefit from a budget review with a financial planner. Even households with large incomes can easily find themselves over-extended and a re-prioritization from an objective 3rd party (ie: an Advisor) can help.

IF THE TRAVEL ITCH IS BECOMING UNBEARABLE, ONE THING THAT CAN HELP IS TO PLAN.

Entrepreneur.com offered in a recent article the “7 Reasons Why Spending Money on Experiences Makes Us Happier Than Buying Stuff.” One of the seven reasons mentioned is “experience defines your purpose and passions”, comparing owning your favourite artist’s entire album collection to seeing the artist in concert, live. It’s an easy comparison but makes the point. If the travel itch is becoming unbearable, one thing that can help is to plan. Many travel experiences are offering modest deposits and guaranteeing refunds in the event of Covid-related cancellations, which makes planning possible. Regardless of what you choose, how you manage this spending is critical.

Arguably, it’s never been more tempting to blow an enormous amount of money on travel once restrictions alleviate. The risk to your financial plan, if you have one, looms large. So rather than pretend it’s not a thing that’s been dominating your daydreaming as of late, embrace it! This means make sure your financial planner is aware and is helping you set aside a travel fund that is adequate to satiate your experiential needs. In other words, if spending more on that next trip south is what’s going to help your mind and soul heal from a year of hell, then go for it. Your portfolio and retirement can – with proper advice and adherence to a financial plan – survive just fine.

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Making your Staycation the

best vacation o N ase suiqtcuired re

When 5:00 Friday hits the clock, close that laptop, stash away those homeschool books, and take the make your Stay at home weekend – the Ultimate Staycation. Instead of investing in hotels or AirBNB, splurge on a few items that will make your weekend feel like a vacation – even if you aren’t venturing past your backyard.

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Backyard Spa Day Set up a relaxation area in your backyard with some beach chairs, a homemade foot scrub and fruit infused water. A must try is Grapefruit & Rosemary infused water. Stay delightfully hydrated and treat yourself to the leftover grapefruit.

Kick your water up a notch and pull out the matching robes for a glorious, relaxing day at Spa Chez-Vous.

Exfoliating Foot Scrub • 1 cup apple cider vinegar • ½ cup Epsom Salts or sugar • Splash of Jojoba oil Mix together with very warm water. Soak feet for 10-15 minutes. Scrub feet with pumice stone or foot file. Rinse with clean water, towel dry and moisturize. Add flowers for an extra spa like feel.

Exploring the city on your bike!

Pedaling around your neighborhood is a great way to see the sights at a slower pace and a different angle. Take in the fresh air and explore the local farmer’s markets or discover new paths. Boost your mood and enjoy this quality time with your loved ones.

Ice Cream Scavenger hunt While exploring on your bike, how many Ice Cream gems can you spot? We spy some unique locations who explore the limits to tease not only your tastebuds but your eyes too with Instagram worthy creations. Look for thai-styled rolled ice cream, homemeade waffle cones, and flavour combinations for everyday of the year!

Deluxe Cookout Support local and order your cook out meal – leaving you more time for your spa day and ice cream adventures with the added luxury of a catered meal.

Make the most of your time off and unplug with all of amenities from home. The best part of ‘coming home’ Sunday is NO unpacking.

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Forget camping, it’s time for Glamping!

Local Entrepreneurs Target Campers Who Want The Comforts Of Home

BY GEOFF KIRBYSON

I

f you’re not the camping type, you’d be hardpressed to find anything glamorous about heading into the great outdoors and praying that mosquitoes won’t find the gaping hole you ripped in your tent while putting it up.

Or using your last three matches to start a fire after your mini-barbecue suddenly ran out of propane a minute after you put your burgers on.

Cassandra Jamieson would like to change all that.

She and her husband, Turner, run McPhail Travel in Brandon but when the bottom fell out of the travel business after the global pandemic first hit, they needed a way to keep the doors open.

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Glamping — that’s glamorous camping — a way for people to enjoy nature without giving up the comforts of home.

They decided to get into the glamping business.

The what?

It’s a thing. Glamping — that’s glamorous camping — a way for people to enjoy nature without giving up the comforts of home.

You can do some of the things you love about camping, such as telling stories around the fire, watching for shooting stars and unplugging from the daily grind. But instead of a fitful night on bumpy ground in a sleeping bag with a broken zipper, you can drift off to sleep in a king-size bed nestled in sheets with a 1,000-thread count.

The Jamiesons started Moonlit Canopy, set to open this summer. It will have three geodesic domes at the

Cassandra Jamieson and family

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Pleasant Valley Golf Course, located about a two-hour drive southwest of Winnipeg. Set in the picturesque Pembina Valley at the south end of Pelican Lake, the domes will be tucked into the tree-lined fairways with unobstructed views of the greens and a winding creek.

The clubhouse is just a short walk away and features a restaurant with beverages of all kinds and hot meals.

Anticipating what the year ahead would look like for her business, Cassandra wondered “How am I going to keep the lights on and at least some of my staff working? My first thought was a staycation. My staff and I spent most of last fall putting together boxes with Manitoba-made products and a travel guide with links to websites and videos on various locations around the world. We wanted to simulate what you might be doing while on vacation.

Some of our featured destinations included Iceland, Switzerland, Paris and Mexico.”

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Pelican Lake is a year-round playground. In the summer, the lake is ideal for sailing, boating and birdwatching. In the winter, ice fishing, snow shoeing and snowmobiling are common activities taking place on the lake.

She thought as soon as the economy reopened that the travel business would pick up but she worried about the people who were nervous about leaving the country or sitting on a full plane beside a complete stranger.

“We’re seeing that consumers are looking for a level of quality, uniqueness, sustainability and architecture.

Experiential travelers are increasingly searching for experiences that reconnect them with the great outdoors in comfort and style. Our goal for Moonlit Canopy is to create a space where you can escape, recharge, reconnect and then go home and take on the world.”

The word “glamping” first appeared in the United Kingdom in 2005 and if there was any question about

Jamieson is confident glamping will appeal to couples and families alike. While most people like to camp — or glamp — in the summer, she is expecting to be busy in the winter, too.

its staying power, that was erased when it was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016. Glamping — the activity, not the word — subsequently caught on in North America and has been growing across the U.S. and Canada for the past five years.

Moonlit’s glamping domes boast king- and queen-sized beds in the mezzanine, a modern kitchenette, a full bathroom and a panoramic bay window. The luxurious accommodations include a pellet stove, lamps, rugs and elegant décor. They’ve been built on wooden platforms and feature private hot tubs.

Jamieson is confident glamping will appeal to couples and families alike. While most people like to camp — or glamp — in the summer, she is expecting to be busy in the winter, too.

“With snowshoe and snowmobiling trails nearby, and a cozy pellet stove keeping the dome warm, it will be the perfect place for a romantic getaway.” Imagine sitting in your hot tub with your toque on as the snow is gently falling, or on a clear night watching the northern lights dance across the sky,” she says.

McPhail Travel – Moonlit Canopy 435 Rosser Ave, Suite K Brandon MB 204-727-2305 cassandra@mcphailtravel.net

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Our team members have established regular programs to provide emergency meals and hampers, assistance, and engagement to people, with the help of local businesses and generous donors.

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