DECEMBER 2017
HOME & L I F E &S LIFESTYLE T Y L E M MAGAZINE AGAZINE HOME
KingLiving.ca
Free Home Evaluation Get your complete and accurate home value report now at
homesforsaleinking.ca
December 2017
PUBLISHED BY
Rainmaker Realty Inc. King Living Home & Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and delivered to over 7500 homes and businesses in King Township by Canada Post. Agreement #41362062.
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to publish this magazine as accurately as possible; however errors and omissions can occur. King Living Home & Lifestyle Magazine’s employees, agents, representatives and vendors are not liable for any damages relating to errors or omissions in the editorials or advertising which may appear herein except where a specific charge has been made.
4
Expert tips to acheive an on-trend bathroom
10 Make reading a family affair RECIPE
12 Milk-braised pork shoulder
2
KING LIVING
SIMPLE SNACKS THAT SATISFY EVERY CRAVING Craving something sweet and salty? These tasty popcorn squares are the perfect treat and great for snacking on during movies or serving at your next get-together. Indulge your sweet tooth using Orville Redenbacher Buttery microwaveable popcorn as a base, now made without any artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Popcorn Squares Ingredients • No-stick cooking spray • 1 bag (82 g) Orville Redenbacher gourmet buttery microwaveable popcorn • 1/4 cup (60 mL) butter or margarine
• 1 pkg (10 oz) large marshmallows • 1/2 cup (125 mL) creamy peanut butter • 1/2 cup (125 mL) dry roasted peanuts, chopped • 1 cup (250 mL) milk chocolate chips
over popcorn; mix well with greased wooden spoon. Directions • Spray 13x9” (3L) glass baking dish and • Place popcorn mixture in greased glass dish and press evenly using back of spoon. wooden spoon with cooking spray; set aside. Sprinkle chocolate morsels evenly over • Prepare popcorn according to package popcorn mixture. Microwave on high 1 directions. Remove all un-popped kernels. minute or until chocolate begins to melt. Place popped corn in large bowl. Refrigerate 1 hour or until chocolate is set. • Melt butter in medium saucepan over • Cut into 18 squares with serrated knife. Store medium heat. Add marshmallows. Heat in tightly sealed container up to three days. 5 minutes or until marshmallows melt, stirring frequently. Add peanut butter and www.newscanada.ca peanuts; stir until well combined. Pour
KING LIVING
3
Expert-approved tips to achieve an on-trend bathroom
KIMBERLY SELDON I’m so lucky to have found my calling as an interior design professional. Since 1991, I’ve completed more than 100 renovations. Some are large design/build projects that take more than a year to complete, while others are simple room makeovers. I love them all! Based on my experience, one thing that needs to be talked about more often — and early in the design process — is electrical safety. An electrical misstep, in planning or executing, can turn your dream reno into a nightmare. That’s why I’m so excited to partner with the Electrical Safety Authority for the Power Your Reno program. We’ve worked hard to provide you, the design enthusiast, with the information you need to create the room of your dreams — one that's well lit and powered to perform. Happy renovating!
4
KING LIVING
The arrival of the new year brings new trends for the home. Renovating your bathroom is a smart place to start because an update will enhance the value of your home and add relaxation to your lifestyle. For a beautiful bathroom, design expert Kimberley Seldon recommends a mix of fashionable pieces paired with classic finishes for a timeless look. She also knows from partnering with the Electrical Safety Authority how important it is to hire the right professionals, including a licensed electrical contractor. When designing this small space, add interest to the floors by using a statement tile with graphic patterns. Another popular option is oversized tiles for a sleek look. In-floor heating will keep the room toasty and having it installed to Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards is a must. The associated wall thermostat must be at least one metre away from a bathtub or shower stall, or be GFCI-protected if it's within one metre. It can never be less than 50 centimetres away. Keep the bathroom streamlined using cabinetry to store everything from electrical
toothbrushes to styling tools and their cords behind closed doors. Remember, outlets placed within cabinetry require an interlocking switch that shuts off power to the outlet when the door is closed to prevent overheating or fire. For a modern shower stall, consider framing with metal and adding tempered glass to mimic the look of industrial steel windows. Keep the interior bright by adding specialized light fixtures — just make sure they're marked suitable for the location. Choosing the wrong kind of lighting or not having it installed correctly can pose a safety risk. Use a neutral or monochromatic colour scheme and enhance it with large-scale artwork or sculptural scones that frame the mirror. When having the lighting installed, ensure it is placed at least 30 centimetres away from any cupboards, shelving or anything flammable. Your licensed electrical contractor will know these facts, so you can rest assured your home is safe. Find more design and electrical tips online at poweryourreno.ca. www.newscanada.ca
DRIVE WITH
CONFIDENCE THIS WINTER
Confidence in your skills and vehicle is important when it comes to winter driving. However, even the most experienced drivers can be thrown off by icy, snowy roads. Stay safe while driving with these tips: Be prepared Before it starts to snow, make sure you have your winter tires on. Keep an extra bottle of de-icing windshield washer fluid and a winter survival kit that includes extra clothing and boots, a first aid kit, small shovel, scraper, snowbrush and flashlight in your trunk. When heading out on longer drives, check the forecast and make sure you have at least half a tank of fuel so you don't get stranded in a snowstorm. Stay focused A recent Belairdirect survey found that although 95 per cent of Canadians think they are good drivers, yet a surprising 93 per cent have admitted to engaging in at least one distracting habit behind the wheel. Never underestimate the hazards of the road. Always look further down the road ahead of your car and slow down if snow, rain or bright lights block your vision. Distracted driving is always dangerous, but even more so in icy and slippery conditions. Go slow Keep to the speed limit and give yourself plenty of time to switch lanes when heading for an exit on the highway. Accelerate and brake slowly, and don't make any abrupt moves that will confuse other drivers or cause you to skid. Know how to stop If you do start to skid, know how to safely stop your car, which starts with knowing what kind of brakes you have. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), hold the pedal down as far as possible until you are fully stopped — do not pump the brakes. If you don't have anti-lock brakes, gradually apply pressure to the pedal, without slamming on it, and release. Repeat to reduce your speed. Once in a skid, it's important to take your foot off the gas, look and steer smoothly in the direction you want to go, and turn on your four-way flashers. Get the right insurance coverage Accidents can happen to even the most conscientious drivers. For peace of mind, make sure you have the best insurance coverage. Companies like Belairdirect can help you determine exactly what you need and provide a quote in minutes. Find more information online at belairdirect.com. www.newscanada.ca
KING LIVING
5
Is it time for a new furnace? Sooner or later, every furnace Furnace replacement is often the dies. Ideally, you don't want to only option if the heat exchanger wait for the unfixable breakdown is at the end of its useful life. to happen in the dead of winter before shopping for a replacement. Efficiency Begin your research before you've A new high-efficiency furnace can got an emergency and you'll have more than pay for itself over time. time to choose a furnace and Moving from a furnace with an service company wisely. Here are overall efficiency of 75 per cent some factors to consider. to a new furnace that delivers 95 per cent efficiency saves you more Age than $20 per month for every If your furnace is over 15 years $100 a month you spend on fuel. old, it's unwise to trust it for more than a few years longer; repair Fuel type costs are also more expensive for If you've got natural gas available older models. If your 10-year-old where you live but your furnace furnace needs repairs that cost uses something else, then half of the installed price of a consider this when you switch new furnace, then replacement to a new furnace. Natural gas is can make more sense. But if your currently much less expensive 20-year-old furnace needs work, than any other home heating fuel, even a small repair bill can mean and this is unlikely to change in it's time to replace the old clunker. the future. Heat exchanger This is the heart of the furnace and it's impractical to repair it.
Renovation plans If you're thinking of finishing your basement in the near
future, this is another good reason to consider replacing an older furnace. It's a lot easier to get the old furnace out and a new one in before your basement is finished, with less risk to newly finished floors and walls. New furnaces can also be substantially smaller than old ones. Finishing your basement after furnace replacement lets you make full use of any extra space freed up. The heat exchanger is heart of the furnace and it's impractical to repair it. Furnace replacement is often the only option if the heat exchanger is at the end of its useful life.
Make sure that the heating contractor you hire is properly licensed and provides a complete written contract for the work to be done. The Canadian Home Builder's Association offers free, unbiased information on how to hire a contractor the smart and safe way. Find more information at www.getitinwriting.ca. www.newscanada.ca
6
KING LIVING
GET WINTERREADY IN 4 STEPS Canadian winters can be harsh, but that doesn't mean you can't set up your mind and body for a cozy and enjoyable season. Here's how: 1. Your skin needs extra hydration and care during the colder months, so also invest in moisturizers and deep conditioners for your hair. Since the sun doesn't stop shining in the winter, you'll also need UV protection. Travel-size moisturizers that you can keep in your bag or car will ensure you can stay protected from winter's severe elements all day long.
2. Re-vamp your winter wardrobe. The best way to do this is with new accessories like scarves, gloves and toques. Don't forget to consider colours and textures when pairing your accessories. Make sure your winter boots have the latest slip-resistant technology. Try the Wind River Bivy winter boots with Green Diamond from Mark's. 3. Winterize your vehicle. Your winter tires can go on as soon as the temperature drops to 7⁰C. Pack an emergency kit in your car in case you get stranded in the colder weather and be sure to include a first aid kit,
bottled water, granola bars, boots, gloves and an extra winter jacket. 4. If you have a furry friend, don't forget to clean their fur more frequently. Exposure to temperatures below zero can cause frostbite on the feet, nose and ears. Ice can also form in toe pads, so make sure to thoroughly check their paws. www.newscanada.ca
Happy holidays from the King Township Women of Influence Giving Circle
Because giving back matters
The King Township Women of Influence Giving Circle is a dynamic group of like-minded women who believe giving back matters. During this festive season, consider joining the Giving Circle. Benefits include empowered philanthropy, networking and a charitable tax receipt. Most important, your generosity will make a difference for Seneca’s King Campus students.
Learn More
Joy.Gooding@senecacollege.ca 416.491.5050 ext. 77945
senecacollege.ca/king
KING LIVING
7
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen
$1 ,9
88 ,0 00
17 CREEKVIEW AVE., RICHMOND HILL
Custom built home with exquisite high-end finishes throughout! Chef's kitchen with s/s appliances, massive breakfast area, island, servery and pantry with walkthrough to dining room. Hardwood floors throughout main & 2nd floors, 10ft ceilings on main, 9ft ceilings on 2nd floor & basement, and all bedrooms have their own ensuites! The quality of upgrades and craftsmanship in this home must be seen to be fully appreciated!
$1
,5
88
,0
00
137 DENNISON ST., KING CITY
Completely renovated and fully landscaped on 100 X 217 ft lot in the heart of King City. Ready to move in. Close to schools, trails, shopping, GO transit.
*The top one percent of the Royal LePage residential sales force for 2016
TheRainMakerTeam.com
$2 ,9
$1 ,2 45
,0 00
50 ,8 88
we make “sold” happen
168 Oxford St., Richmond Hill
81 Humber Cres., King City This lovely King City bungalow sits on a prime ravine lot & featuring a huge deck with private & peaceful ravine views, 2 basement walkouts, renovated kitchen with travertine floors, fantastic family friendly neighbourhood. Close to schools, unique shops, public transit, parks & more! Live-in or build your dream home.
Beautiful custom built home with exceptional attention to detail. Featuring Cortina custom kitchen, vanities, family room and mud room built-ins with quartz counter tops throughout. High-end appliances, faucets and fixtures. Soaring 10-foot ceilings on the main level. Fully finished walk up basement with 9-foot ceilings. The quality of upgrades and craftsmanship in this home must be seen to be fully appreciated! Home is 90% complete.
$1
,0
95
,0
00
26 LEADEN HALL DR., QUEENSVILLE
Approx. 2960 s/f Brand New in Minto's Queen's Landing community. Over 100K in builder upgrades included. All finishes have been professionally curated by Interior Designer. Premium pie shaped lot backing onto farm.
Joseph Cartaginese Broker
Paula Perri Broker
Stephen Ferritto Sales Representative
Domenic Spina Sales Representative
Jamie Goldenberg Sales Representative
Chris Campoli Sales Representative
Christine Field Sales Representative
Palma Dametto Sales Representative
Make reading a family affair One of the best ways to encourage kids to read is by making it a family activity. Here are five tips from the Canadian Children's Book Centre on how to make reading a pleasant pastime for everyone.
4. Bring books to life. Children love pictures, and reading can be a great way to introduce kids to art. Read a picture book and then have kids design their own cover for the book or encourage children to make their own drawings or paintings for their favourite stories.
1. Read with your children at bedtime. Making reading a part of the regular 5. Introduce books to children in bedtime routine provides a great oppor- unique ways. There are so many ways tunity for parents and children to talk. to introduce children to new stories Sharing a story can lead to discussions and authors. In addition to reading about your child's day, their feelings new books, watch or listen to authors and emotions, current events and more. read their own books online or through audio books from the local library. Also, 2. Make regular visits to the library a grade one students can get a free copy of part of your routine. Get library cards Andrea Lynn Beck's picture book, Good for every member of the family and Morning, Canada as part of the TD let kids take the lead in checking out Grade One Book Giveaway, Canada's books. Pick some books together, but largest free book distribution program also let kids choose a book or two on for school-aged children. their own. www.newscanada.ca
Creating a quiet reading space inside the home where a child can enjoy long periods of uninterrupted reading is a great way to raise a book lover.
3. Create a quiet space for reading at home. Creating a quiet reading space inside the home where a child can enjoy long periods of uninterrupted reading is a great way to raise a book lover. Make sure to make it a big enough space for mom or dad to join.
S H O W O F F Y O U R TA L E N T
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS OF KING TOWNSHIP
and get the chance to be featured in upcoming issues of King Living Home & Lifestyle Magazine and other King Living publications. CONTEST RULES: Photo entries accepted by email only to info@kingliving.ca. Please include your name, photo title, and the location the photo was taken. Use the Subject line: King Living Photo Contest. Photos must be taken within King Township. Please send High Resolution Photos. WINNERS: Winners will be featured in our King Living Home & Lifestyle Magazine and other King Living publications. Winning photos will be featured on our social pages as well as our website.
FLU SHOT HELPS US STAY HEALTHY AND ACTIVE As the weather gets colder, people make certain changes — dressing warmer, drinking hot beverages and staying healthy by getting the flu shot.
as heart or lung disease, which increases the risk for complications. Getting the flu shot is your best defence against the flu and the serious complications that can come with it. -- flu viruses can live on surfaces for up to eight hours. Getting the flu shot boosts your defense In addition to getting the flu shot, there against the illness. Before each flu season, are things you can do every day to protect “Protecting yourself from the flu by getting a vaccine is developed to protect against yourself: vaccinated also protects the people around the most common, expected flu viruses. you,” explains Dr. Eric Hoskins, Ontario's That's why it's important to get vaccinated • Clean your hands often with soap and water, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. every year. or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. “Fortunately, getting the flu shot in Ontario • Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your is not only free but also convenient. Your Unfortunately, older adults have a harder sleeve -- not your hand. health care provider, local public health time fighting off the flu. This is especially • Clean and disinfect surfaces often, such unit or participating pharmacy can help.” true if they have chronic health issues, such as countertops, telephones and keyboards www.newscanada.ca
KING LIVING
11
MilkBraised Pork Shoulder Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour, 10 minutes Serves: 8
Ingredients • 15 pearl onions, root ends trimmed • 1 (2.2 lb/1 kg) boneless pork shoulder roast, trimmed and tied at 1-inch intervals • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper • 2 tbsp pure first-pressed canola oil • 2 cloves garlic, peeled • 2 bay leaves • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 1 small onion, thinly sliced • 1/2 cup dry vermouth • 2 cups homogenized milk • 1 tbsp PC Dijon prepared mustard • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Directions
The perfect tender roast of the season Looking for a tender and juicy roast recipe to serve? Look no further than this milkbraised pork shoulder recipe. It includes dry vermouth which is also referred to as “white” or “French” vermouth. If you can't find it, opt for a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
1. Pulse dates, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla and salt in food processor until smooth, stopping to scrape down bowl if necessary. 2. Add trail mix and seeds blend; pulse until coarsely chopped. Add cereal, apricots and chocolate chips; pulse until combined. 3. Transfer to large bowl; mix with moistened hands if necessary to combine. Roll by heaping one tablespoon into balls, then roll in coconut to coat. Arrange in single layer on large plate or baking sheet. Refrigerate until firm, about 15 minutes. CHEF'S TIP Toast coconut in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often until golden; about, 5 to 7 minutes. Find more recipes online at ontariobeans.on.ca www.newscanada.ca
12
KING LIVING
Good news about food banks in Canada Our nation has a big challenge ahead to solve the issue of household food insecurity. But recent studies have shown signs of improvement and some good news on the food bank front. Mimi Lowi-Young, executive director of Food Banks Canada, shares a few positive stories on our nation's journey to relieve hunger.
Many food banks are adding new tools to their repertoire as they find different ways to address hunger in the community. This includes increasing capacity to distribute a wider variety of food including fresh foods, and weaving basic cooking skills into their offerings. “It's validation for the tireless efforts of food banks across the country,” says We're engaged Lowi-Young. “Not only are our In a recent survey, 87 per cent food banks putting nutritious of respondents said that they meals on our clients' tables, believe hunger is not only a they're positioning them for problem in developing coun- future success by teaching basic tries but also here in Canada. cooking skills in their community “I think on the whole, we're kitchens, working cooperatively better engaged on issues around with community service organihunger,” asserts Lowi-Young. zations or providing nutritional Our understanding may stem education programs for kids.” from the fact that Canadians are closer to the issue than ever We know there's more to be before, with almost half admit- done ting they know someone who Even more reassuring is the has visited a food bank — an fact that 80 per cent of people increase from 40 per cent in 2012. said that everyone plays a role in helping those in need. “With strong partners like Real CanaFood banks are adapting The old image of food banks lined dian Superstore and Indepenwith canned goods is outdated. dent grocery stores collecting
...Canadians are closer to the issue than ever before, with almost half admitting they know someone who has visited a food bank — an increase from 40 per cent in 2012.
donations and helping food banks to accept fresh food donations, we've been able to create a lot of visibility for the problem and how people can get involved.”
While there's certainly some positive news, Lowi-Young is under no illusions about household food security. “We've seen upswings like this before but we're by no means in the clear. My only hope is that this is the start of something bigger and that more of us will pay attention and act, whether that's making donations at the local grocer, volunteering at the local food bank or community kitchen or providing feedback on Canada's upcoming National Food Policy.” www.newscanada.ca
KING LIVING
13
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen 281 SPRUCE HILL, KING CITY
LD SO
SO
LD
Prestigious private, wrought iron gated, green and gorgeous 5 acre lot offers tranquility with nearby groomed hiking trails perfect for a country equestrian. Backyard oasis, more than welcoming with cascading pool and fully integrated cabana. Breathtaking marble and 5" Brazilian cherry wood floors accented by granite counter tops. Heated garage and workshop. Stunning home that you can call yours!
STEPHEN FERRITTO S A L E S R E P R E S E N TAT I V E
416-371-8596
Ferritto sells King!
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen TheRainMakerTeam Difference The Other Guys! Most Realtors operate as a “one person does all” show.
FACT: An agent who is a great marketer,
HOW DOES TheRainMakerTeam’s SYSTEM WORK?
does not necessarily mean that they are a great negotiator or administrator, etc. One size definitely doesn't fit all.
Our team is modeled on the most successful major corporations. They have departments that specialize in a particular element or task and so do we.
You get where we’re going with this… A jack of all trades and a master of none, won’t work for you in today’s world of competitive real estate.
What you get from us is an entire team of experts handling your transaction, instead of a single agent.
TheRainMakerTeam is a full service real estate team. Helping you is what we do! All calls and internet inquiries answered by a team member 24/7
Décor & Staging: Specialists will work together with you to enhance your home’s features and benefits to prospective buyers enhancing the probability to maximize your return.
Our dedicated administration specialists handle all the documentation, so that your personal realtor can devote their full attention to the sale of your home.
Data & Technology Department: Our data specialists utilize our customized computer software to examine market conditions, trends and comparable sales together with our expert home evaluators to arrive at the ideal list price of your home. In today’s real estate world it requires a scientific approach... No guesswork with us.
Negotiation Department: Our negotiators are seasoned professionals who are always up to the challenge to get you the most money for your home.
It is our belief that only full time Realtors who are fully engaged in real estate can best serve your best interest… no part timers here!
Administration Department
Specialized Website for King Township
Full Time Realtors
Client Care Department Our full time client care specialists are always available to liaise with our clients. While your personal realtor may be helping another client, you are never forgotten or left alone.
Legal Department: Associated Real Estate specialist lawyers who are well versed in all aspects of your transaction and the hidden pitfalls to ensure a smooth process.
Finance Department & Mortgage Department: Specialists who assist prospective buyers of your home to obtain mortgages at competitive rates so that they can purchase your
Other Departments: Property search Renovation Home Care and Cleaning
#1 BROKERAGE IN CANADA
*
15
KING LIVING
*For Royal LePage Based on Real Estate Sales of Independently Owned Franchises in 2016
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen
FROM YOUR
COMMUNIT Y REALTORS
We are very thankful to our Clients for a successful 2017. We wish you a Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
Joseph Cartaginese Broker
Paula Perri Broker
Stephen Ferritto Sales Representative
Domenic Spina Sales Representative
Jamie Goldenberg Sales Representative
Chris Campoli Sales Representative
Christine Field Sales Representative
Palma Dametto Sales Representative