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Contents
Cover Story Travel & Resorts 14
Yukon—Larger Than Life by Terry Tremaine
Features Boreal Gourmet 22
Yukon Blueberry Chutney by Michele Genest
Travel & Resorts 26
The Great Bear Rainforest by Terry Tremaine
Culinary Delights 30
Classic Decadence by Anna Olson
Luxury Libations 34 Grenache/Garnacha by Rhys Pender, MW
Style 40
Fall 2012 Fashion by Connie Ekelund
Health & Wellbeing 46
Boost Brain Power with Four Super-Nutrients by Lorna R. Vanderhaeghe, M.S.
Innovations 52 Sight and Sound by Steve Dotto
Luxury Rides 56 New and Upcoming Luxury SUVs by Tony Whitney
Wealth 60
Which Way is Your Nest Egg Swimming? by Adrian Mastracci
Culture 66
The Secret to Powerful Productivity by Dr. Lesley Horton, MD
Profiles: 38
CedarCreek Estate Winery
44 Ella’s 50
Copeman Healthcare Centres
64
Gainsborough Galleries
On the cover: Kathleen Lake, Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon, Canada Photographer: Connie Ekelund
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Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 7
Volume 10 | Fall 2012 www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
Contributing Editors Steve Dotto is host and executive producer of the nationally-televised computer show Dotto Tech, a “how-to” technology show teaching Canadians how to get more out of their computers and digital devices. Steve also pioneered Canada’s first multicast show by hosting Dotto on Data, another computer-based production which is seen on the national level. His column each issue will look at the most compelling technology nuggets he finds in his high tech journeys. Steve@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Yukon author and cook Michele Genest has lived in Whitehorse since 1994. She has written about food and culture for the past 25 years, and was formerly dining editor of enRoute Magazine. She writes a regular cooking column for Yukon, North of Ordinary Magazine, and other credits include The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, The Montreal Gazette, enRoute, Flare and Geist. Her cookbook, The Boreal Gourmet, is a national bestseller and won a Canadian Culinary Books award in 2011. She will tour Scandinavia in the fall of 2012 on a research trip for her next book on northern cuisine, to be released by Harbour Publishing in spring 2014. Michele@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Dr. Lesley Horton, B.Sc., MD, CCFP, CCPC, is a holistic medical physician and executive life coach who helps people to achieve what they want in life with radiant health and vitality. Her special interest and expertise in medicine is in anti-aging and bio-identical hormones to create optimum well-being. DrLesley@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Adrian Mastracci is Portfolio Manager and Registered Financial Planner (R.F.P.) at KCM Wealth Management Inc. KCM is an independent, “fee-only” portfolio management and financial advisory firm founded in 2000. Their specialty is designing and managing longterm investment portfolios. With extensive expertise, Adrian coordinates clients’ portfolios with their retirement aspirations, risk tolerances, estate matters, tax implications and business planning needs. Adrian@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Celebrity chef Anna Olson is host of Bake with Anna Olson on Food Network in Canada, as well as two previous successful series, Sugar and Fresh with Anna Olson, which have aired in 40 countries worldwide. She has authored seven bestselling cookbooks, including her most recent, Back to Baking. Two of these books were written with her husband Michael, a well-noted chef and culinary instructor, and together they have recently launched the Olson Recipe Generator app for iPad, iPhone and Android with critical acclaim. Anna@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Rhys Pender, MW, is a wine educator, consultant, judge and freelance writer through his company Wine Plus+ and his website www.rhyspender.com. In 2010, Rhys became Canada’s youngest Master of Wine (MW). In 2008 Rhys was named as one of the “Top 40 Foodies Under 40” in Western Canada by Western Living magazine. He writes for a number of publications, judges internationally and is increasingly becoming recognised as one of Canada’s leading experts in the wine business. His career plan is to wait for Robert Parker to retire so he can finally claim back his initials RP for wine reviews. Rhys@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Lorna Vanderhaeghe, M.S., is Canada’s leading women’s health expert and has been researching nutritional medicine for over 25 years. With degrees in nutrition and biochemistry, she is the author of ten books, including her two newest, A Smart Woman’s Guide to Weight Loss and A Smart Woman’s Guide to Heart Health, and is the founder of the SMART line of products for women’s health. For more information, visit www.hormonehelp.com and sign up for her free monthly health letter. Lorna@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com Tony Whitney is a journalist and broadcaster specializing in the automobile sector. His work has appeared in major newspapers across Canada and in business, lifestyle, automotive and specialist magazines and websites in North America and abroad. Based in Steveston, B.C., he has appeared on the network TV show Driver’s Seat for more than 20 years. Past president of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada, he is a juror for North American Car and Truck of the Year and a long-time adjudicator for the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame. Tony@GoodLifeConnoisseur.com 8 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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2012- 2013 SEASON Ballet BC
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Presented with the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival
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From the Publisher
Our travels for this issue were a little unusual in that we didn’t leave Canada. Rather than flying for hours to get to the other side of the planet to experience something entirely different, it was a relatively short distance to both our destinations. And they were both entirely different. The Yukon was the last jurisdiction to visit for me to be able to say I’ve been to each part of Canada. It’s a remarkable country we have, each area distinct, with its own idiosyncrasies. The Yukon is a place which I feel requires a return visit, principally because I am most curious to experience a day with very few hours of sunlight. Here in Vancouver we complain during the winter months that the sun comes up late and sets early and it rains all day. But having just a few hours of sunlight each day, I suspect, would take much time to get used to. For our next issue we’re back to flying great distances for an unusual experience. This time it’s off to Botswana for a safari organized by our favourite tour company, Abercrombie and Kent. Little doubt the trip will provide lots of opportunity for great photos and a good story. And then from there we are going to go on to the Seychelles, which I would suggest is as far away from Vancouver as you can get before you start coming back again. I know I’m repeating myself, but, again, I have little doubt there will be lots of opportunity for great photos and a good story. So, as usual, I would suggest filling out the reservation form opposite to ensure having a look at what we bring back. Comments, good and bad, are always welcome.
Terry Tremaine Publisher Terry@FusionPublishingInc.com Visit our Facebook page for exclusive opportunities for our readers.
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Photographer: Connie Ekelund - Chilkoot Trail, Yukon Canada
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Travel & Resorts
Yukon Larger than Life By Terry Tremaine Photos by Connie Ekelund
I
t’s only a two hour flight from Vancouver to Whitehorse, but it certainly feels like the journey has been much farther, as the change in environment is so dramatic. The flight with Air North, Yukon’s airline, sets the tone. Not only were the attendants, from the check-in counter to onboard staff, courteous, but they also actually appeared happy to be of service. Plus, they even provided a free meal. They made flying fun again and established the hospitality we came to enjoy throughout our visit. The total population for the territory is 33,000, with 28,000 living in Whitehorse. So there is definitely a small-town feel, with the likelihood that everyone knows everyone. Those we met, whether they were born there or had moved there, were inordinately fond and proud of their home. The downtown area is obviously not large, but with the largest employer being the government, incomes are generally good and support a vibrant retail sector. 14 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Our first adventure which opened our eyes to the natural wonders of the territory was a visit to the Sky High Wilderness Ranch. Just a short ride from the city, but that ride makes one aware of how untouched the natural environment is. From that point on we could only marvel at how everywhere we went the scenery was just spectacular. We had the opportunity to go horseback riding in the Ibex Valley with owner Gary Burdess. The ride only increased our awareness of how untouched by man the land remained. The ride took us up hills where bald eagles soared and allowed us to look down on bright blue lakes surrounded by green forests. Those seeking to step away from the hustle of our connected society can do so here with an opportunity to have multiday adventures on horseback in summer or with dog sleds in winter. Be prepared to live without electricity, let alone cell phones.
“The ride only increased our awareness of how untouched by man the land remained. The ride took us up hills where bald eagles soared and allowed us to look down on bright blue lakes surrounded by green forests.” Many people come just to learn how to handle a dog sled. The ranch has 150 dogs. After a few days of practice, it’s off into the wilderness with your dog team to spend days truly experiencing “the great outdoors.”
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Travel & Resorts
Back in Whitehorse, our host for dinner in her home was Michele Genest, author of The Boreal Gourmet. This was definitely a dinner with a difference. For in the kitchen with Michele was Chef Massimo Capra, host of the TV program, Gourmet Escapes. So, of course, we were also surrounded by his film crew, since this dinner was to be an episode for the show. On the menu was moose prepared using local fauna. Among the guests was Cathie Archibould, the very experienced hunter who had made the kill and brought the meat Michele and Massimo prepared. The Yukon was proving to be quite the eclectic experience. Whitehorse also boasts its own craft brewery, not surprisingly named Yukon Brewery. They brew eight different beers ranging from a light lager up to an impressive espresso stout. Even for non-beer drinkers a tour is well worthwhile, if only for the enthusiasm of the brewery staff— who were proud to boast not only about their beer, but also to point out the casks holding their first effort at distilled spirits which will be made available this coming November. We were fortunate to spend a night at Northern Lights Resort and Spa, a new B&B. Renate and Wolfgang Bublitz had been travelling from their native Germany to visit the Yukon for years until finally, in 2009, they decided to leave friends and family behind and move permanently to the Yukon. They purchased 160 acres and built the first cabin, which they lived in as they built the main house, which also holds their spa with both steam and infra-red saunas. Their plans called for just one more cabin near to the outdoor hot-tub; likely a wonderful warm spot from which to view the Northern Lights. The cabins are very comfortable. Renate is both chef and masseuse. The hospitality is warm and the natural beauty of the surroundings is, of course, captivating. 16 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Our next adventure was to board the White Pass and Yukon Route railroad. Boarding in Carcross, we travelled to Bennett Lake at the end of the Chilkoot Trail. The narrow gauge railroad was built in 1898 as a result of the Klondike gold rush. It is recognized as a historic civil engineering landmark due to the extraordinary effort required to build it. Not only was the terrain remarkably challenging, but the climate was even more demanding. Passengers travel in the original parlour cars on track that snakes up some 3,000 feet in just twenty miles. There are two tunnels and an endless number of cliff-hanging hair-pin turns. Again, scenery is breathtaking with views of rivers, lakes and forests, while throughout the journey a guide provides commentary on the scenery and tales from the gold rush era. At Bennett Lake there is an opportunity to get out and get a bit of a history lesson on what people went through in their quest to reach the gold fields of the Klondike. Inn on the Lake, situated on the shores of March Lake quite near to Whitehorse, is the top rated resort in the Yukon. With just fifteen rooms, the property offers intimate amenities and easy access to a host of outdoor activities both summer and winter. Sitting on the shoreline makes for great viewing of the Northern Lights. Guests dine together at one large table, enjoying fine food accompanied with good wine and easy camaraderie. A masseuse paid a visit to our spacious and well-appointed room to provide each of us with a relaxing treatment. This set the tone for simply sitting on the wide balcony facing the lake to take in the full panorama of the landscape facing us. A glass of good wine readily added to the majesty of our surroundings. Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 17
in
connoisseur’s choice
Travel & Resorts Kluane National Park is home to Canada’s highest mountain peak, Mount Logan, and the world’s largest non-polar ice fields, resulting in the park being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the extreme southwest corner of the Yukon, the park covers some 22,000 square kilometres. We were lucky enough to be able to view the park from the vantage point of a helicopter. Our pilot was particularly skilled, being able to guide us close to various mountain ranges before suddenly popping over cliffs, providing views of ice fields and rivers far below. We even managed to spot a couple of Dall sheep hugging the mountain side as we flew by. The park is home to a large variety of wildlife including grizzly bears and caribou. Near to the park is the Dalton Trail Lodge, Yukon’s only roadaccessible fishing lodge. The property is supervised by owners whose hands-on experience with both the fishing and the property provide guests with a quality experience. The chef has a commendable reputation and we quite enjoyed our meals. Plus, the camaraderie of the other guests and staff in the bar come evening was a high point of our visit. The property, sitting on the shoreline of Dezadeash Lake, has a number of cabins offering comfortable accommodation. But what most visitors come for is the fishing. It’s a fisherman’s paradise, with easy access to a wide variety of fish habitats for salmon, lake trout, arctic grayling, pike, rainbows, landlocked salmon, Dolly Varden and whitefish, during their respective seasons.
18 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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In Whitehorse we stayed in both the High Country Inn and the SKKY Hotel. The High Country Inn is ten minutes walking distance from the heart of the city. It recently went through a major renovation and boasts Jacuzzi tubs in the rooms. The property has two restaurants and advertises itself as being the premier hotel in the Yukon with its convention facility. Nearby is the SS Klondike Sternwheeler riverboat, situated on the Yukon River, which flows through the community. This national historic site offers an opportunity to gain an understanding of the flow of goods up to the miners and the enormous amount of ore being sent down. The McBride Museum right in the heart of the downtown core provides furthers insight, even being home to both Sam McGee’s cabin and a North West Mounted Police cabin among the exhibits. The SKKY Hotel sits opposite the airport. We enjoyed their Presidential suite, a large two-room unit with a fireplace connecting the bedroom to the bathroom. Their Volare restaurant has recently undergone a significant renovation and offers a fine menu. Our favourite restaurant in the downtown area was Antoinette’s, named after dynamic owner Antoinette Hanneke. She brings a Caribbean flare to her menu and has won rave reviews not just for the food but also the comfortable cozy atmosphere her diners have come to enjoy.
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Yukon. A feast for your eyes and soul. Getaway packages from Vancouver, Calgary, or Edmonton. Airfare and accommodation for two nights. $579 all-in. Experience Authentic Yukon hospitality on board Air North, Yukon’s Airline. From little touches like complimentary in-flight snacks to a generous baggage allowance, Air North helps you experience Yukon before your feet touch the ground.
Morels Restaurant
Inn on the Lake
Morels’ thoughtful menu has been designed to flatter regional and local northwest cuisine, intertwined with Yukon flavours. The cozy and elegant atmosphere will make for a memorable dining experience, as will the exclusive wine list that boasts vintages that aren’t available anywhere else in the Yukon.
Featured on Martha Stewart Living and listed by National Geographic in 2009 as one of the Top 150 places to stay, this lodge is located next to the stunning Marsh Lake – 35 minutes from Whitehorse. The area features numerous winter activities including opportunities for viewing northern lights –in some cases visible even from your suite in this 4½ star (Canada Select) inn.
morelsrestaurant.ca | (867) 667.4471 ext. 162
exceptionalplaces.com | (867) 660.5253
at the High Country Inn
Luxury and comfort in an amazing setting
flyairnorth.com/specials | 1.800.661.0407
in
connoisseur’s choice
Travel & Resorts Our trip to the Yukon was special. Everywhere you turn the scenery is simply outstanding. In some ways it reminds me of growing up in the Maritimes, as the trees are not nearly as tall as I’ve gotten used to here in British Columbia. But the huge difference is that the forests and mountains seem to go on forever. The people were a pretty laid back crowd, with everyone seemingly having a story to tell. We met no one anxious to leave. Many told tales of coming for a short visit and then never leaving. It’s a unique community, made more so, I suspect, as a result of the climate. I’m most curious to experience days of limited sunlight. Again, when leaving on Air North, Yukon’s airline continued the hospitality we had enjoyed throughout our visit with a complimentary coffee trolley in the waiting lounge at the boarding gate for its passengers—making our interest in leaving even more difficult. n
Connoisseurs Choice in Yukon Tourism Yukon 867.667.5949 www.travelyukon.com Air North—Yukon’s Airline 1.800.661.0407 www.flyairnorth.com Sky High Wilderness Ranch 867.667.4321 www.skyhighwilderness.com White Pass & Yukon Route Rail 1.800.343.7373 www.wpyr.com Kluane National Park & Reserve www.tinyurl.com/kluanepark Yukon Brewery 867.668.4183 www.yukonbeer.com Antoinette’s Restaurant 867.668.3505 High Country Inn 867.667.4471 www.yukonhotels.com Northern Lights Resort & Spa 867.393.3780 www.northernlightsyukon.com Inn on the Lake 867.660.5253 www.innonthelake.ca Dalton Trail Lodge 867.634.2099 www.daltontrail.com SKKY Hotel & Volare Restaurant 867.456.2400 www.skkyhotel.com
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in
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Boreal Gourmet
Yukon Blueberry Chutney
I
By Michele Genest, The Boreal Gourmet
love to bring out the hunter, the fisher and the forager in any eater and introduce them to the both indigenous and exotic ingredients of the boreal forest and local market. Since moving to Canada’s northern territory, I have discovered how to enhance a store-bought diet with the natural foods First Nations people have survived on for thousands of years. Let me transport you through northern meadows, forests, rivers, lakes, oceans, gardens and even pantries. Throughout this edible journey, you will discover the jams, sauces and tarts to be made with the various berries of the north; the transformative power that birch syrup, spruce tip, fireweed honey and rose petal have on a recipe; the intriguing flavours of caribou, moose and elk; fresh new recipes for pike, salmon, trout and arctic char; and the surprisingly sundry uses of sourdough. n 22 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Mountain Squealer Blueberry Chutney Makes about six 1-cup (250 mL) jars ¼ cup (60 mL) olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped 1 tbsp (15 mL) toasted cumin seed 1 tsp (5 mL) salt 8 cups (1.9 L) wild blueberries 3 cups (700 mL) sugar Zest and juice of 2 limes
The Boreal Gourmet ($26.95) is available at bookstores across Canada, or online at www.harbourpublishing.com www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Sauté the onion in the olive oil until translucent, add the garlic, jalapenos, cumin and salt, and sauté a few minutes more. Add the blueberries, sugar and lime zest and juice, stir well to combine, bring to a boil, turn heat down and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, until the mixture passes the saucer test: pour a drop of the mixture into a saucer and let it sit for two or three minutes. Then tilt the saucer to see if the drop runs. If not, it’s ready. Pour into sterilized jars and seal with a two-piece metal lid. Immerse in a boiling water bath for five minutes. Remove from the water and let cool to room temperature. Store in a cool dark place. Serve with game sausage and sourdough toast for a simple and delicious fall brunch. Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 23
Indulge In
neW HorIZonS
Get swept away by the spell of yukon From private helicopter tours above Canada’s tallest peaks, to personalized excursions alongside glacier-fed lakes, the adventure of a lifetime is closer than you think. In this wide-open territory, luxurious log cabins with down duvets and unparalleled gourmet meals prepared with the finest local fare await you at the end of the day. Follow your heart and reconnect in the Yukon for a Larger Than Life adventure just waiting to be shared.
Travelyukon.com
WWW.PRETTYESTATESRESORT.CA 1.877.796.1001
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Travel & Resorts
The Great Bear Rainforest By Terry Tremaine Photos by Connie Ekelund
T
he Great Bear Rainforest, the largest temperate rain forest left on the planet, lies on the north coast of British Columbia. This extraordinary wilderness area, in a country with many outstanding natural wonders, is viewed by many as the most prized. It is home to a huge variety of plant and wild life, including the elusive Kermode bear from which the forest gets its name. Plus, two quite different neighbours found opposite each other in the heart of the forest off the Douglas Channel south of Kitimat—both of whom first gained acceptance from the Gitga First Nation, found in nearby Hartley Bay, prior to establishing their presence. Janie Wray and Hermann Meuter came to the southern tip of Gil Island in 2001 to study whales. Their first year was spent in a tent. Still sitting nearby the Cetacelab they built is a bathtub sitting on rows of bricks high enough to allow a fire to be built underneath to heat the water. For ten years they have been documenting the resident returning whales and recording their songs. One of the endearing things they have learned is that the whales all sing the same song and when one of them makes a creative change they all pick up on it, happy to add it to their tune. The lab has gained sufficient recognition to now host interns, generally students looking for an authentic research experience. Plus, for the first time, Janie and Hermann have now put their research forward for peer review, thereby adding to the world’s knowledge of these remarkable mammals. 26 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Their neighbour for the months of May through October is King Pacific Lodge, moored in Barnard Harbour. This seventeen-suite floating luxury resort is towed from Prince Rupert each spring to enable guests to experience the wonders of untouched nature while still enjoying quality cuisine and comfortable accommodation.
“This seventeen-suite floating luxury resort is towed from Prince Rupert each spring to enable guests to experience the wonders of untouched nature while still enjoying quality cuisine and comfortable accommodation.” There are only two ways to reach the lodge, floatplane or boat. Ideally, guests are flown to Bella Bella, from where they can catch a float plane to the lodge. However, when weather conditions aren’t favourable for the floatplane, which was our situation, we were flown to Terrace. There we boarded a bus for Kitimat. From Kitimat it’s a few hours in a small boat down Douglas Channel to reach the lodge sitting by the shore, surrounded by nothing but wilderness. The tedium of the journey quickly fades upon being met with a glass of champagne on arrival. Plus the offer of a session with an excellent masseuse in the onboard spa could not be passed up. Each suite is surprisingly well equipped, even to the extent of having both a separate shower and a Jacuzzi tub. Guests dine together, seated at a few long tables, providing opportunity to share tales of the one that got away, as the principal activity is fishing. The staff is most attentive, with the galley crew doing an exceptional job in very cramped quarters. The pastry chef actually works in a very small room at the very bottom of the vessel, with only a picture of a window to brighten her day. Surprisingly, fish is not a major component on the menu as food supplies are flown in fresh from Vancouver. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
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etacea Lab is a land based whale research station located along the isolated north coast of BC within the Great Bear Rainforest. Janie Wray and Hermann Meuter, the co-founders of the facility, have been recording the acoustic traditions, foraging behavior and social connections of whales in this pristine region for the last decade. With the use of a network of underwater hydrophones and marine surveys, their research demonstrates that this habitat is vital for orca, humpback and fin whales and should be designated as critical habitat to ensure that all three populations continue to thrive.
Sponsor a Whale Volunteer Internships Research Donations
Learn more at www.ForWhales.org
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Travel & Resorts
Unlike most fishing lodges, this is definitely a couple’s destination. Our first day out fishing, our guide, born in Hartley Bay with twenty years’ experience fishing in the area, was unable to find us so much as a nibble. No matter, the scenery was spectacular and we did see whales and lots of bird life, including, of course, bald eagles. The second day out we made up for the first by each catching our limit, coming back with two chinook and six coho after throwing back a few pinks. A fellow guest lead by our guide from the first day came back with a thirty-seven pounder, allowing the guide to walk tall again. We also had the opportunity to do a little hiking beside a waterfall near the lodge and understood those doing so late in the season often see Kermode bears. But we were most taken with the view from the resident helicopter during a fly-over of the area. There was no sign of mankind aside from the whale watching station mentioned earlier and a Canadian Coast Guard vessel anchored in one bay nearby. The coast line and forests seemed to go on forever. The vision of those who created this eco-friendly, luxury resort was truly outstanding. The guests who shared this uniquely Canadian experience came from all across North America, drawn to a destination they understood would provide an opportunity to view untouched wilderness. None left disappointed. n Connoisseur’s Choice King Pacific Lodge 888.592.5464 www.kingpacificlodge.com Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 29
Photography by Ryan Szulc
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connoisseur’s choice
Culinary Delights
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By Anna Olson
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he sophistication of Europe’s finest cities is reflected in the architecture of their buildings and monuments, the art in their galleries, and the fashion on their streets. But the hearts of these cities are found in the restaurants, cafés, markets and pastry shops. Cuisine is an integral part of a city’s identity and Vienna, Austria, is no exception. Vienna is a cultural powerhouse for central Europe and is known for its art and music. It also takes its cuisine seriously. Schnitzel, sausage, knodel and strudel abound, but any visitor to Vienna has not fully partaken of the culinary culture until they have visited a kaffehaus, a traditional coffee house, to partake of the afternoon tradition of cake and coffee. Well-regarded philosophers, poets and politicians of days past have been known to haunt these establishments to debate, discuss and argue over a coffee and a slice of simple torte, and one can only wonder if they paid attention to the remarkable delicacies on their plate. One of these classic marvels of the Viennese pastry world was Sacher Torte.
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The Sacher Torte is named after the source of its creation over 175 years ago, the Sacher Hotel, a distinguished landmark in Vienna. The cake itself, like Vienna, is refined and elegant. A rich chocolate cake is filled and covered with apricot jam, then glazed with a shiny chocolate ganache. A torte such as this is perfect with a strong cup of coffee and only a thin slice is needed to fully satisfy. While you can order a Sacher Torte to be shipped from the hotel of its namesake, the recipe is also a point of satisfaction and accomplishment for professional pastry chefs and passionate home bakers alike. Here is a narrative of tips and guiding points to take you through the three major phases in making the torte: the cake, the ganache and the assembly.
“A rich chocolate cake is filled and covered with apricot jam, then glazed with a shiny chocolate ganache.” The Cake Be sure to budget enough time for the cake. This style of cake actually benefits from being made a day ahead of when you need to serve it—it slices more easily and with fewer crumbs once it has had a day to sit. The quality of the chocolate you use for the cake and the ganache counts immensely. Your chocolate desserts are only as good as the chocolate you use. Buy a good-quality couverture chocolate (intended for baking) that has at least 70 percent cocoa solids. To achieve a cake that has a nice, even texture, is tender, and doesn’t crack or crumble, it is important to beat well after each addition. Be sure that your eggs are at room temperature before adding the yolks to the chocolate mixture (cold eggs risks seizing the chocolate), but, as well, room temperature egg whites whip to a greater volume. When folding the whipped egg whites into the batter, it is actually better to fold in the whites quickly and more vigorously than to be too cautious and gentle. Time is the enemy of whipped egg whites, and the longer and slower you fold, the greater the opportunity for the eggs to deflate. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
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connoisseur’s choice
Culinary Delights
The Ganache This ganache, made using butter, is the style that is used to cover cakes, compared to a ganache made with whipping cream that is used as a sauce or for truffles. The butter allows it to set well and slice easily, and that little addition of corn syrup adds just the right amount of shine. It is important that the ganache is just the right consistency when you want to pour it to cover the cake, and the key to success is all in the temperature. If it is too warm, it will run off the cake and leave too thin a coating, and if too cold, it won’t flow and coat evenly. When you are near ready to assemble the cake, check the consistency by lifting your spatula up and letting the ganache flow back into the bowl. If it flows too quickly, just let it sit a little longer, and if it “mounds” or doesn’t flow back into a level layer in the bowl, simply warm it up a little until fluid. The Assembly Having the right tools is key to making your cake easy to assemble and look professional. Place the cake on a cake board (found at cake or craft supply stores) that is just the diameter of the cake itself, no bigger. A cake wheel or lazy Susan allows you to slice the cake in half so that it is level, and allows you to coat the cake with the apricot jam easily, by spinning the wheel. Use an offset spatula (also called a palette knife) to spread the apricot jam evenly. 32 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
When it is time to glaze the torte, place the cake onto a cooling rack set over a parchment paper-lined baking tray, to catch any drips. Pour the fluid ganache onto the centre of the torte and use your spatula to gently coax the ganache to the edges and just let it flow over the sides to cover completely. Once covered, use your spatula to carefully lift the cake from the cooling rack onto your cake stand and chill well before decorating.
“The classic décor for a Sacher is actually quite simple.” The classic décor for a Sacher is actually quite simple. It is traditional to write the word “Sacher” in cursive using the fluid ganache, but you can express your creative side here without compromising the virtue of the torte. Use any remaining fluid ganache in a piping bag to draw any design or pattern you wish. At holiday time, you can also place a ribbon around the outside of the cake and add a few silver dragées on top. Preparing a classic dessert such as this offers such a sense of accomplishment, since the satisfaction comes from not just appreciating the end result, but embracing the journey of baking to get there. Bake and enjoy! n www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
Viennese Sacher Torte For Cake: 4 oz (120 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup (125 mL) unsalted butter at room temperature 1/4 cup + 2 tsp (50 mL + 10 mL) icing sugar 6 large eggs, separated and at room temperature 1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour, sifted 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (125 mL + 30 mL) sugar 1 cup (250 mL) apricot jam For Chocolate Glaze: 12 ounces (360 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped 3/4 cup (180 mL) unsalted butter, cut into pieces 1 Tbsp (15 mL) corn syrup
Method Photography by Michael Olson
1. For cake, preheat oven to 350°F (180 °C) and grease and sugar a 9-inch (25 cm) springform pan. 2. Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of barely simmering water, stirring constantly. Remove this from the heat. With electric beaters or in a stand mixer fitted with whip attachment, whip the melted chocolate with butter and icing sugar and whip until smooth. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gently fold in sifted flour by hand. 3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until foamy, and then add sugar. Continue whipping whites until they hold a medium peak (until the whites curl a little when beaters are lifted). Fold in a third of the whites into the chocolate mixture, and then fold in remaining two thirds. Scrape into prepared pan, level with a knife or spatula. 4. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until a tester inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool completely. 5. Heat the apricot jam in a small pot on medium heat or in a microwave and purée to make it smooth, then chill. Slice cake in half horizontally and spread a thin layer of jam over bottom half. Top with other cake layer and spread apricot jam over top and sides to coat evenly. Chill cake while preparing chocolate glaze. 6. For the glaze, stir chocolate, butter and corn syrup in a bowl over a pot of gently simmering water until melted. Allow glaze to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally (it will thicken just slightly). 7. Place cake on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour glaze over cake in one stream at the centre of the cake. With an offset spatula, gently coax fluid glaze to the edges of the cake and let it drip over sides. Use spatula to spread glaze over any gaps and chill until set. 8. Once chilled, gently move cake to a serving platter and garnish as desired. The traditional garnish is to write “Sacher” on the cake with remaining glaze, but any piping with remaining chocolate ganache would suit. Sacher Torte will keep, refrigerated, for up to three days.
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Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 33
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connoisseur’s choice
Luxury Libations
Château de Beaucastel
Grenache/Garnacha
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By Rhys Pender, MW
renache, or Garnacha, has long been one of the world’s most widely planted grape varieties, even though its name seldom appears on wine labels. It could be considered the workhorse of the Mediterranean, where it often forms the basis for the soft, heart-warming red wines that have cozily partnered so many chilly fall and winter evenings. Despite the proliferation of Grenache around the world, it has a reputation for quality, a standing that is only improving as producers realize its potential as both a standalone variety or to add softness and richness to blends. When it expresses its bright red berry fruit and savoury spice or the scent of garrigue as a dry rosé, the versatility and sheer deliciousness of Grenache becomes clear. On an international scale, the grape is most commonly referred to by the French term Grenache, even though the Spanish Garnacha is likely the more accurate nomenclature. It even gets a little more complicated than that, as the quality grape we know is really Garnacha Tinta (Grenache Noir), not the similar sounding but quite different Garnacha Tintorera, which is actually the French variety Alicante Bouschet. With grapes travelling from Spain to France and France to Spain, it is probably not surprising that there are conflicting theories of evolution. It would be too simple for everyone to agree on its background, so, like many grapes, there are a number of claims to its origin. 34 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
Most credit the grape’s origin to Spain, where it thrived in the Mediterranean climate of the Spanish Aragón kingdom up north and throughout France’s Roussillon, which was at the time part of Spain. The Italians also stake a claim to the grape’s origin. Grenache, as we will refer to it, is the same grape variety as Sardinia’s Cannonau, which the Sardinians claim to be indigenous. Whatever the true origin, it is a grape that has been treasured throughout the Mediterranean region for its ability to produce lots of wine, be drought hardy and heat resistant, and contribute its red fruit and spice to the region’s excellent rosé and red blends. The flavours and characteristics of Grenache are a little surprising considering where it is grown. Typically we associate warm climates with dark red grapes with thick skins, lots of black fruit flavours and aromas, plenty of tannin and lots of alcohol. Grenache ticks only one of these boxes—alcohol. The wine is often a surprisingly pale colour because of its thin skins, something that also results in low tannins. The resultant wines are soft, with an appealing cuddly texture. Many of the wines are therefore rich in body, pale to medium in colour, high in alcohol, low-ish in acidity, and soft in tannins. While most of the wines fit this image, there are occasional exceptions where low yields combined with old vines and specific, poor soil terroirs (such as granite, schist and stones), make wines that are more structured, deeper, and darker, and that age much longer than usual. www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
Along with its softness and richness come some very pretty fruit and floral flavours. Rather than dark fruits, Grenache is typically about sweet, ripe raspberry and strawberry flavours and aromas, along with some more complex and savoury clove, white pepper and, often, dried herbal notes. Grenache seems to have an uncanny ability to express the terroir in which it is grown, and in the Mediterranean it is often the complex mixed, dried herb notes, known as garrigue in France or monte bejo in Spain, that it encompasses so well. Although the full-bodied wines are the most important style, it is not just big reds to which Grenache lends its charm. Many of the delicious dry rosé wines of southern France and Mediterranean Spain are also based on Grenache. Being naturally light in colour and tannin, it is very well suited to rosé. Typical Grenache rosé is medium in body, dry with medium acidity and flavours of strawberry, raspberry and garrigue notes. Well-chilled on a hot summer’s day while sitting on the patio or in a café in France or Spain, there is nothing better. In Spain, the grape also can now appear in sparkling wine as it is now allowed as one of the blending varieties in rosé Cava. Even less known as a style, but absolutely delicious, is the vin doux naturel of southern France. These are wines made from exceptionally ripe Muscat or Grenache grapes that are lightly fortified during fermentation with grape spirit to make an intriguing, generally sweet, fortified wine. The Grenache-based vin doux appellations in southern France are Banyuls and Maury. The spirit, which is often around 95 per cent alcohol, can account for up to 10 per cent of the volume of the wine, the goal being to increase the alcohol level to a point at which yeast can’t survive and a stable but sweet wine results. These red fortified wines are probably the world’s greatest match for any dessert made with dark chocolate. Grenache may feel a little hard done by. Even though it is so widely planted throughout the world, its name rarely gets the limelight on the label. The reason is because it is such a great blending variety. The most famous wines come from the Rhône Valley region of France. Here, and in neighbouring Languedoc-Roussillon, Grenache is blended with the other traditional grape varieties of the region, such as Carignan and Cinsaut, along with the slightly newer but very well established Syrah and Mourvèdre. It is Grenache that adds the weight, texture, red fruit flavour and soft approachability, while varieties like Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan add colour, tannin, acidity and dark fruit flavours. Producers can stamp their own style by altering the blends, making wines that are either more structured to age or soft and approachable when young. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 35
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connoisseur’s choice
Luxury Libations In Spain, Garnacha is increasingly appearing on labels as a single varietal, particularly in some of the newly rediscovered regions such as Calatayud and Cariñena (both a region and a grape). More traditionally, it is blended with Tempranillo in various regions across the country and Cariñena (Carignan in France) in the recently-famous Priorat region. Tempranillo, which quite recently surpassed Garnacha as the most planted variety, makes a leaner structured wine, and the extra body and soft tannins of Garnacha help to make it ready to drink at a younger age, something deemed particularly useful for inexpensive wines in the Rioja region. In the last few years, Spanish Garnacha has been transformed from a variety that earned little respect, and mostly filled the stats of removed grape varieties, to something that is very much an integral part of Spain’s wine future.
“While the wines are nearly always a blend, it is often Grenache that dominates, giving the wines richness and texture.” The southern Rhône Valley in France is the most famous Grenache region in the world. While the wines are nearly always a blend, it is often Grenache that dominates, giving the wines richness and texture. The majority of the wines are made under the broad appellation of Côtes du Rhône, followed by the more expensive and more focused Côtes du Rhône-Villages. Côtes du Rhône accounts for a huge volume of the large Rhône region’s wine production and the wines are often well-priced, easily drinkable and very enjoyable. For something with a bit more stuffing, there are a number of crus within the Rhône region. The most celebrated cru of the Rhône is, without a doubt, the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is known both for creating the framework that went on to form the basis of the French appellation system, as well as producing some of France’s finest rich red wines. It is testament to the ripeness of Grenache in the region that Châteauneuf-du-Pape has the highest minimum alcohol requirement of any appellation in France. Other Grenache based crus in the southern Rhône are making wines that can, on occasion, rival the more celebrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape. These include Gigondas, Vacqueyras, the newly-promoted Rasteau, Lirac and the famous rosé Tavel. Other villages under the Côtes du RhôneVillages appellation that also make excellent Grenache-dominant wine include Séguret and Cairanne. Look out for these names. In the Languedoc and Roussillon regions, which stretch from the Rhône to the Spanish border, Grenache is the second most planted grape variety and contributes its generous flavours and texture to appellations such as Corbières, Fitou, Faugères, Minervois, Saint-Chinian and the broader Languedoc appellation. These wines will all contain varying amounts of Grenache in the blend. Grenache is also a key ingredient in the huge quantities of delicious, crisp, dry, red fruit, dried herb, and savoury-flavoured rosé wines of Provence. 36 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Grenache is not just limited to France and Spain. In Italy, the Sardinians typically make a very full, rich and potently alcoholic wine under the local varietal name of Cannonau. Grenache was also part of the once-huge plantings in Algeria and North Africa that supplied rich red wine to France. Lebanon and Israel also have plantings of Grenache, ensuring the variety has representation on practically every coast of the Mediterranean. Grenache makes up part of the blend of the well-known Lebanese red wine Château Musar. Grenache also has an important presence in the New World, particularly Australia, where it was the most planted red grape until the mid-1960s. Once a grape considered more suitable for bulk production in the high-yielding inland irrigated areas, it is now being planted in top quality regions such as Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, where it appears either as a standalone wine or in the popular GSM (GrenacheSyrah-Mourvèdre) blends. There are also plantings in the United States and South Africa. Most consumers have probably enjoyed the qualities of the Grenache grape at some time while appreciating a glass of delicious wine, even if they didn’t know which variety they were drinking. Now that the grape has wider recognition, it is getting even greater attention and being planted in better terroir in both the New World and the Old. From rosé to rich soft reds, the sweet vin doux naturels and even the odd bubbly, Grenache is a versatile and important grape for the world of wine and one that we will only see more great things from in the future. n Connoisseur’s Choice in Grenache Food Pairings Wine
The wine-making team at Château de Beaucastel
Pairs With
Castillo de Monséran Garnacha, Cariñena, Spain
Barbecued venison sausages with red onion jam
d’Arenberg The Custodian Grenache, McLaren Vale, Australia
Spit-roasted leg of lamb
Guigal, Côtes du Rhône, Rhône, France
Pan-seared duck breast with red wine, thyme and cherry reduction
Pertaringa Two Gentlemen’s Grenache, McLaren Vale, Australia
Braised venison with mixed berries
Château de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France
Red-wine-braised rabbit
Château Musar, Lebanon
Game meat stewed with dried herbs, red wine and mushrooms
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 37
CedarCreek Estate Winery
Our Wine is Our Word P
urchased in 1986 by Senator Ross Fitzpatrick, CedarCreek was one of the first eight wineries of B.C. For 25 years now, they have pursued perfection and produced some of the valley’s best wines, resulting in CedarCreek being twice recognized as “Canada’s Winery of the Year.” “Our pioneering was tempered by patience and perseverance, which became our mantra,” says President Gordon Fitzpatrick, “and these ideals matured into CedarCreek’s philosophy, ‘respect the land, honour tradition, pursue perfection.’ Twenty-five years of dedication and a few sleepless nights later, here we are, celebrating our Silver Anniversary.” As CedarCreek celebrates this milestone, Gordon looks back at a few defining moments that shaped their present and are a big part of the winery’s success story:
The Pinot Noir “Why make it easy on ourselves? In 1991 and 1995, we planted the notoriously difficult Pinot Noir at the Home Block. Those vines are now entering their late teens and early twenties, and have been the source of sleepless nights and more than a few grey hairs, but we wouldn’t change a thing.
The Pull-Out of 1990 “There aren’t a lot of us still making wine who were there, but this was a moment that defined not just us, but our industry. In our case, we removed 12 acres of hybrid Chasselas, DeChaunac and Okanagan Riesling; these were wines that were not winning any awards (bless our friends and family for their early support). The Pull-Out put us on the path to great wine.
The 1992 Merlot “Coming out of the pull-out, there wasn’t a lot of faith that we could make great red wine in the Okanagan—even non-hybrid whites were a gamble. Our 1992 Merlot was awarded the first, and only, Platinum medal at the Okanagan Wine Festival. It surprised everyone and set the stage for the reds we make today. In its honour, we still call our best wines Platinum.
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“Our 1992 Merlot was awarded the first, and only, Platinum medal at the Okanagan Wine Festival.”
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The Barrel Program “Early on in our commitment to making premium wines, we recognized the importance of great oak to great red wine. Great oak comes at great expense and aging our reds the way we like to only adds to the cost. But we made the commitment and today we have the largest barrel program of any estate winery in the Okanagan, comprised predominantly of barrels from top-end coopers in France. The Big Winery Rebuild “We redesigned, rebuilt and re-equipped. Our new winery is a gravityfeed system designed to minimize stress on the juice as it flows. It’s a particularly important feature for our Pinot Noir—the signature grape at the Home Block. Part of our vision for the Okanagan as not just a wine-producing but also wine-touring region was, to provide a place visitors could eat, drink and enjoy the view. We’re biased, but we think The Terrace restaurant might just offer the best of all three. The Winery of the Year 2002 & 2005 “Pardon the pun, but all our hard work bore fruit. We set ourselves on the path to being a producer of premium wine in 1998, and we felt this recognition by the Canadian Wine Awards was nice validation of the direction in which we were headed. The Sunset Concert Series “We think music pairs just as well with wine as food does, so, in 2004, we launched a concert series at the winery. Now in its ninth season, the Sunset Concert Series continues to play an important role in developing the Okanagan as a serious wine-touring region. The Goal “We’ve been asking, “Where do we go from here?” We’ve been lucky to be part of the enormous growth of winemaking in the Okanagan. Twenty-five years ago, we took some risks and committed ourselves to producing wines of a quality that were inconceivable in 1987. Today we’re going to do it again. We want to be one of the toptier family estate wineries in the world. Today it’s not about the Okanagan or Canada any more. It’s about where do we rank in the world. We’ll never be big, but we want to be great. Join us and let’s see what the next quarter century brings as we prove why we say, ‘Our wine is our word!’”
CedarCreek Estate Winery 5445 Lakeshore Road Kelowna, BC, Canada, V1W 4S5 250.764.8866 info@cedarcreek.bc.ca www.cedarcreek.bc.ca www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
CedarCreek Estate Winery is open year round, offering winery tours three times daily from May 1 to October 31. The Vineyard Terrace Restaurant is open mid-June to mid-September and serves lunch and weekend brunch. Throughout the year, CedarCreek is host to a number of special events (including the Telus Sunset Concert Series), where proceeds are donated to local charitable organizations. This has earned CedarCreek the title of one of the top three businesses in Kelowna for their civic and community work, recognized by the City of Kelowna awards in 2012. The next time you are in the Okanagan, we suggest you drop by CedarCreek Estate Winery at 5445 Lakeshore Road. It’s just a short scenic drive from downtown Kelowna. n Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 39
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Style
Fall Fashion 2012 By Connie Ekelund Holt Renfrew This fall Holt Renfrew is celebrating its 175th anniversary. This fashion force has grown into Canada’s leading luxury retailer from its once humble beginnings as a small hat shop located in Quebec City. Congratulations! We have chosen to show you select autumn offerings that are suitable for the grand celebrations! www.holtrenfrew.com
• Vince leather shirt-tail dress, $995
LADIES • Vince hooded shearling coat, $2,195 • Joie Vineesha dress, $550
• Helmut Lang fur and leather jacket, $1,995 • Vince stretch leather jean, $1,275 40 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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MEN • Dsquared2 pea coat, $1,325
• Etro cable cardigan, $1,195
• Brunello Cucinello 12-ply cable cardigan, $2,250
• Etro field jacket. $1,695
• Naked & Famous WeirdGuy jean, $169
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Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 41
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connoisseur’s choice
Style FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES • Gucci Ribot medium shoulder bag, $1,990
• Valentino straw Panther Aphrodite, $2,995
• Jimmy Choo Belgio pump, $850
• Chloé large party satchel, $2,395
JEWELLERY Tiffany is also celebrating their 175th anniversary and has created the Enchant Collection, available at Holts. • Tiffany Enchant scroll pendant, earrings and bangle in platinum and rose gold with diamonds, $24,000-$33,000
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BEAUTY & COSMETICS
Estée Lauder
Blackberry & Bay by Jo Malone
• Patent-pending IntuiTone™ Invisible Fluid Makeup in shades for every ethnicity. Appears fresh, flawless and radiantly perfected in every light. $42.50
• A burst of deep, tart blackberry juice and sparkling grapefruit, blending with the freshness of justgathered bay. Softened with delicate flowers, resting on a brambly base of vetiver and cedarwood. The Blackberry & Bay Collection, $70-$125. The Moisturizing Soft Cream by La Mer • The Moisturizing Soft Crème contains the Miracle Broth™, with its legendary powers of transformation, and gives skin the deep moisture it needs to renew itself. Clinical testing showed a 71 per cent improvement in clarity immediately after using the Moisturizing Soft Cream. 1oz/30ml, $170
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• Illuminating Perfecting Primer and Mattifying Perfecting Primer, $40 n
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 43
Ella’s
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Karyn Chopik
ewellery artist Karyn Chopik finds herself an extremely busy woman these days, designing four extensive collections per year. Included in her artistic journey, Karyn also designs a private label for major accounts, and if all of this was not enough, she creates a limited edition, as well as a one-of-a-kind series twice yearly. To keep with the authenticity of her designs, Karyn travels extensively, seeking out unusual stones and antique jewellery parts to satisfy her collectors’ desires. In doing so, Chopik has developed a large group of discriminating international collectors who love her bold, organic, mixed metals signature style. Karyn has carved out a solid reputation, making her work easily recognized worldwide. Stories of women identifying each other’s jewellery at Heathrow airport or at a resort in the Bahamas are not an unusual occurrence. Many have tried to copy her look, but there is only one Karyn Chopik, and few can do it with her integrity or ability to change with each season.
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Designing jewellery since 1985, Chopik’s goal is to produce beautiful pieces that last and have value over time. “My wish is that my jewellery ends up on the Antiques Road Show someday and not a landfill,” says Chopik. “The only way I can achieve this is to use only the best natural materials and ensure the workmanship is impeccable.” Karyn is mentored by her wholesale clients, some of whom she has become good friends with over the years, such as Ella Little. Ella is an icon in the fashion industry, and is celebrating 35 years in business. Located in the Brookswood area of Langley, Ella’s has a reputation for having the highest standards in quality garments and customer service. Always searching for the most up-to-date fashions, Ella has a sapient eye and it is nothing short of phenomenal when she and Karyn collaborate. With trend setting lines such as Annette Gortz, Luisa Cerano, Marc Cain, Stuart Weitzman and St. John, the need for artistic jewellery is imperative. www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
“Karyn is truly a gifted artist, whose talent and energy is given to us through jewellery,” says Ella. “What could be better than wearing art?” Karyn always welcomes Ella’s feedback and will produce special pieces exclusively for her boutique. Karyn has been a featured artist at many of the “Wine & Wear it” events that take place in Ella’s; this is a wonderful opportunity for customers to engage in a conversation with the artist and have her create the perfect design for them and their lifestyle. Demanding only the best for her clientele, Karyn Chopik is the obvious choice for Ella’s.
“Karyn is truly a gifted artist, who’s talent and energy is given to us through jewellery” Like her beads, Chopik is multi-faceted—just when you think you have her figured out, she reveals another incredible side. The Fall 2012 collection Temptations is a radical departure from the healing vibration of the spring line. Temptations is just that, bold and sultry, oozing with sex appeal. It has a powerful energy that draws you in and takes hold. There is a confidence to the line, it is both pleasing to the eye and satisfying to the touch. Woven throughout the fall collection is a replica of an antique Tibetan key that Karyn purchased in her travels. It is used to open temple doors. Chopik’s artist statement reads, “Let this key open the door to your heart’s desire and discover the secrets patiently waiting inside.” It is through this journey into self-discovery that Chopik continues to evolve. She is currently working on a mixed art line for the home and a jewellery line for men never seen before. Chopik’s studio is located on the Langley Bypass in Surrey. She employs eight artisans to keep up with the high demand for her wearable art. She currently sells to over 90 gallery and high-end fashion boutiques across North America. Ella’s in Langley is proud to have purchased Karyn’s jewellery since 1990. They carry a large selection of her work, and they welcome you to stop in and have a look. n Ella’s 4070 - 200 St., Langley, BC V3A 1K7 604.530.8515 www.ellasoflangley.ca www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 45
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connoisseur’s choice
Health & Wellbeing
Boost Brain Power with Four Super-Nutrients By Lorna R. Vanderhaeghe, M.S.
46 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
T
he human brain is the most complex organ in the body. It produces our every thought, action, memory, feeling and experience. Weighing in at 1.4 kilograms, it contains over 100 billion neurons. Until recently, it was thought that if those nerve cells were damaged, they could not be repaired, but we now know the brain has a remarkable capacity to regenerate with these super brain nutrients. Acetyl-L-carnitine: Memory Booster Acetyl-L-carnitine has extensive research showing it can protect brain cells, restore flagging energy, stimulate brain cells, prompting them to grow new connections to other neurons, and much more. But where acetyl-L-carnitine is most important is in combating brain aging and the prevention of dementia. Studies of Alzheimer’s sufferers have reported improvements in memory compared to patients receiving placebos. One study showed that when acetyl-L-carnitine was added to the typical drugs for Alzheimer’s (acetylcholin-esterase inhibitors), the improvement in a variety of functional and behavioural parameters was over 50 per cent when compared to the drugs alone. Stanford University researchers stated that acetyl-L-carnitine slows the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Double-blind, placebo controlled studies (the gold standard) using acetyl-L-carnitine in 500 mg to 2,000 mg doses for three months’ duration provided a significant improvement in symptoms, and the longer the nutrient was taken, the better the improvements. Other studies showed acetyl-L-carnitine improved hearing, increased energy, improved age-related macular degeneration of the eyes, improved heart function and reduced fatigue. Recovery after Stroke The benefits of acetyl-L-carnitine’s ability to regenerate lost brain function extend far beyond Alzheimer’s disease. It is an important nutrient in the treatment of stroke victims, improving memory, task performance and cognition during recovery, especially when combined with blueberry extract. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Acetyl-l-carnitine: A Smart Nutrient We know Acetyl-l-carnitine works to improve age-related memory decline, Alzheimer’s, and recovery from stroke, but what about boosting brain power in anyone? Acetyl-l-carnitine is used for energy utilization within cells. A dose of 500 mg with breakfast in the morning can “jump start” the brain, improving mental clarity, spatial learning, and energy. Acetyl-l-carnitine should be part of everyone’s brain boosting, dementia-Alzheimer’s prevention program. Acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha lipoic acid in combination are known as the dynamic duo in antiaging compounds today.
“Alpha lipoic acid has also been studied for post-stroke treatment due to its protective effect on brain and nervous tissue.” Anti-aging: Super Alpha lipoic Acid Found in every cell in the body, alpha lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight off infection and disease, protect organs from damage and prevent premature aging. Alpha lipoic acid also helps turn glucose into energy in the cells, making it an important treatment for diabetes and pre-diabetes. It is also the only recognized natural treatment to relieve painful diabetic neuropathy. Alpha lipoic acid has also been studied for post-stroke treatment due to its protective effect on brain and nervous tissue. Diabetes type 3 is a newly discovered form of brain diabetes causing increased brain aging. The combination of acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha lipoic acid are super-stars at improving overall brain function, thereby reducing memory decline. Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 47
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connoisseur’s choice
Health & Wellbeing Memory Enhancement with Blueberry Extract Blueberries became news when old rats who were fed blueberries became young again. Now scientists have found that human research shows that blueberry extract improves memory in humans. Research showed that the group taking blueberry had a significant improvement on learning and memory tests. Twelve weeks of daily blueberry consumption improved the scores of two different cognitive tests involving memory in older adults. The study’s authors suggested blueberries could slow or postpone the onset of aging-related memory problems. In another study involving 48 obese participants with pre-diabetes, the consumption of blueberries for eight weeks lowered blood pressure and reduced bad LDL cholesterol. Curcumin: Brain Protector Curcumin, the yellow pigment in the curry spice turmeric, was originally researched for Alzheimer’s disease because studies found there is a much lower incidence and prevalence of Alzheimer’s in India than in North America. Researchers investigated the association between the curry consumption and cognitive level in 1,010 Asians between 60 and 93 years of age. They found that those who ate curry foods performed better on a standard test (MMSE) of cognitive function than those who never or rarely ate curry.
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The process by which Alzheimer’s disease degrades the nerve cells in the brain is through inflammation in glial cells in the brain; the formation of beta-amyloid plaques; metal toxicity; and oxidative damage. Several studies have found that curcumin is a powerful antiinflammatory in the brain, that it can break down plaques, improve memory and memory decline, and it is a powerful antioxidant. The research will continue, but it is compelling enough at this point to add curcumin to your brain protecting program.
“Fifteen per cent of Canadians at age 60 suffer dementia and by the age of 80, fifty per cent will be affected.” This is the first time in history that we have had more people over the age of 50 than under, and we need to start early to improve brain function. We are living longer but dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are common. Fifteen per cent of Canadians at age 60 suffer dementia and by the age of 80, fifty per cent will be affected. Start taking brain nutrients today. n
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Copeman Healthcare
Wealthy-Now Healthy and Wise By Michael Morgan
I
magine this. Mark and Melissa had the world by the tail. They owned the boat they always dreamed of, his prized vintage cars were parked in the triple garage of their home and business was good. The children had graduated from college and the two of them were stealing every moment they could to play golf together at a private club.
“We’ve worked hard to build a beautiful life and we’re determined to remember every moment of it.” They had everything they had worked and hoped for, but they had forgotten one very important thing. They had not thought of a plan to ensure that their good health and good memories would not disappear as they aged. 50 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
In the early 80s, Mark became a partner in an IT company that developed software for the financial services industry. From the beginning, he worked long and stressful hours, travelled weekly, frequently dined out with clients and paid no attention to exercise. His lifestyle for over twenty-five years had put him on a fast track for health problems. And like a lot of mid-life men, he wasn’t seeing a doctor regularly for check-ups. Signs appeared but were ignored. This changed when Melissa noticed that Mark was increasingly forgetful and sometimes “drifted away” while they were doing things together. Mark confessed he was looking over his shoulder more often and worried about keeping up with the young guns coming up right behind him. He admitted to his wife he felt he was slipping mentally and wasn’t quite as sharp as a few years before. Melissa had been the primary caregiver for her father through his battle with Alzheimer’s disease, so she decided to step into action. www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
Mark’s previous family doctor had retired, so Melissa pushed him to go to the local clinic to look for some answers. The doctor there examined him, ordered some blood tests and offered a short lecture about his cigars, drinking and diet after Mark revealed he had been feeling some pain in his arm and pressure in his chest from time to time. He prescribed some medication for his blood pressure, which was showing high. These symptoms of heart disease came as a complete shock to Melissa. She was angry at Mark for not saying something earlier and the news hit her hard. He was the love of her life and she was worried. Now entering their sixties, and well into planning new and exciting retirement adventures together, she saw dreams falling from their grasp. When she asked Mark what the doctor had said about his mental functioning, he told her that the doctor didn’t have much to offer, except that a certain amount of decline should be expected with age. Melissa called her sister, a Vancouver nurse, for advice. “We’ve worked hard to build a beautiful life and we’re determined to remember every moment of it.”
Melissa’s sister was blunt. “You need to get Mark a thorough assessment and some expert doctor care right now, not only for his heart, but for his brain,” she advised. “There’s a lot of scientific evidence today linking the two.” They had the means, so Melissa thought the best place to go might be the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix. But, through friends, she learned that the Copeman Healthcare Centres in Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver were at the forefront of both cardiac assessment and neuroscience research. After talking to staff at the nearest Centre, she learned that heart health and brain health were very much connected, and that both could be improved with a little work. Melissa was surprised to find out about the brain’s remarkable ability to “rewire itself ” and recover lost functioning, even after major damage from cardiovascular disease, stroke, injury or the natural aging process. Soon after their inquiries, Mark enrolled as a member of Copeman Healthcare in a specialized program designed for people whose combination of poor lifestyle choices, stress and long working hours have put them in the high risk category for strokes, heart attacks and declining mental functioning. The initial assessment from Mark’s medical team at Copeman immediately identified a serious heart problem and the team moved swiftly into the integrated management of his health care. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
It progressed quickly from a detailed risk assessment, to a stress electrocardiogram, to a CT angiogram and an appointment with a cardiologist. Incredibly, about six weeks later he had triple by-pass surgery. Mark is quick to give the Centre credit. “They probably saved my life,” he says. Today, Mark is back at his desk as CEO after a successful cardiac rehabilitation program. “I was spending more money and time on my cars than on my health care,” he says with a hint of regret. “I now know that I need to pay a lot more attention to my lifestyle, but I’ve also learned just how valuable it can be to have a team of medical professionals that are looking out for you. I wouldn’t have guessed that the teamwork approach that worked so well in my own company could be applied to my healthcare delivery.” Now Mark has his heart and brain health in the hands of medical experts at Copeman Healthcare. He has doctors, dieticians, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, psychologists, coaches and neuropsychologists working together to protect his health. Now that his heart is back in proper working order, he’s been spending some time in his day to build himself a better brain with the help of his neuropsychologist. And Melissa is back to making retirement plans for them. Stories like Mark and Melissa’s are becoming more common. In many cases, health prevention has taken a back seat to urgent medical care. However, because baby boomers are resourceful and educated, they have created a demand for premium health services, like those offered at Copeman, that go well beyond publically insured medicine to help people avoid health problems altogether. The price tag for a service like that offered at the Copeman Centre? At about $350 per month ($4,200 in the first year), it may seem like a lot to some, but more people are seeing the value when they look around at their other expenses and the choices they are making. For many, this annual cost is considerably less than their life insurance. Centres like Copeman seem to be offering something a little more practical—life “ensurance.” Just ask Mark and Melissa. n Copeman Healthcare Toll free: 1.888.922.2792 www.copemanhealthcare.com Edmonton: Suite 700, 10216 124 St. 780.455.2273 (CARE) Calgary: Suite 400, 628 12th Ave. SW 403.270.2273 (CARE) Vancouver: Suite 400, 1128 Hornby St. 604.707.2273 (CARE) West Vancouver Suite 200, 545 Clyde Avenue 604.669.2273 (CARE) Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 51
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connoisseur’s choice
Innovations
Sight and Sound By Steve Dotto Getting the whole picture A favourite saying of photography experts is, ”The best camera is the one you have with you,” which translates into the iPhone for many of us at least. The iPhone has a surprisingly good camera, which can be made better and more flexible through a simple lens attachment. Ollo is Spanish for “i.” The Ollo clip is a lens attachment that snaps onto the iPhone 4 and 4s. The product is actually one of the early “crowdfunding” success stories on kickstarter.com. The Ollo clip lens will convert your iPhone lens into a three-in-one macro, wide angle and fisheye lens. The macro lens applies roughly a 10X multiplier and allows you to focus the iPhone within 12 to 15 mm of the subject. The wide angle is perfect for those arm’s length photos— you know, the ones where your buddies crowd in around you and you hold the camera out at arm’s length—now you can fit four or five close friends in instead of just a few big heads! The Fisheye lens captures approximately a 180-degree field-of-view and produces some striking images. $70 www.olloclip.com Turning the tables, or audiophiles be crazy! When it comes to ways to spend disposable income, audiophiles have more options than almost any other group (unless you collect jet aircraft). When only the best sound will do, audiophiles turn to vinyl. When only the best turntable will do, they turn to Clear Audio. This $137,000 vinyl spinner isn’t for the faint of heart. Its tonal accuracy comes from the massive 700 lb. weight. Heavy in turntable land means less vibration and less vibration means more of the music coming through to the listener. Sure you can get a turntable with oh, a 300 lb. platter, but that is just plain sissy stuff. Note: Price does not include the structural reinforcement required to your home. www.clearaudio.de Flashback to a better time There is a thriving JukeBox refurbishment industry in most every city in the land, but if you want the feel and look of the good old days, but want to use your modern media as well, the Wurltzer Classic 2000 Jukebox is a modern take on one of the most popular jukebox designs of all time. First released in 1956, this chrome beauty hearkens back to diner days of old. The Classic 2000 now plays CDs instead of vinyl 45s and stores up to 100. Cover art cards are on a motorized flip system—very retro! No word if it has a built-in Fonz punch and play, however it would be an outstanding addition to any party room or man cave. www.gibson.com/products/wurlitzer 52 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Covering every angle Let’s see, you have most everyone you know with an iPhone, you have a wireless network, the phones can all shoot HD video...what could we do with that? How about build a switchable video network? Yep, to heck with fancy pants mobile video units, you can make your own, using nothing but Wi-fi and a few iPhones. CollabraCam provides a quick, easy and fun way to shoot and simultaneously edit live video from multiple cameras on-the-fly using iPhones, iPod Touches and iPad 2. CollabraCam links iOS devices running the app over local Wi-Fi to create a video switcher and communication control room with a simple, yet powerful, live video editing workflow. You and your crew will produce exciting, dynamic videos with minimal post-production. As the director, you can view, record and edit from up to four live-streaming iOS cameras in real-time, while also having the ability to silently cue the camera operators to perform pan, track, dolly or tilt camera moves, or request a high or low angle. The applications are endless, from community theatre to skateboard parks to little league. $5.99 www.collabracam.com
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Recording sound the way it was meant to be heard We have great cameras for taking great pictures and video, but what about audio? To be fair, the best video camera only does an okay job on field recording audio. The good folks at Samson think there is a better way, and have made it surprisingly affordable to record quality sound in the field with the Samson Zoom H4N digital audio recorder. The H4n’s onboard X/Y stereo condenser mics are arranged with the right and left mics on the same axis. This design ensures that the mics are always equidistant from the sound source for perfect localization with no phase shifting. So it is ideal for everything from concerts to interviews. The H4N also has XLR jacks so you can plug in external mics. All the audio is saved on SD cards for easy storage. A USB interface easily connects the H4n to a Mac or PC for editing, and it even works as an audio interface. A hefty package for a fraction of the price of other professionalgrade digital audio recorders. $300 www.samsontech.com Totally Tubular Man Just cause it’s new doesn’t mean it’s better. Tubes have been with us for almost 100 years. In the late 60’s most audio manufacturers jumped onto the transistor revolution. Why? Well, not for the reasons you might think. Transistor amps were cheaper to manufacture and delivered higher output levels, but to audiophiles the sound was a bit dry compared to the warm sound of tubes. With lots of baby boomers getting back into vinyl, tube amps are making a big comeback. Companies like McIntosh are remaking vintage tube designs. This mean you can now buy that tube amp you only dreamed about when you were younger. Sound wise you’ll be going back to pure analogue with tubes doing their magic to the audio signal. Dropping a really good tube amp into a killer HiFi (yeah, I said HiFi) system can take great sound to AMAZING sound. For example, The Classic McIntoch MC-275 offers more power, greater dynamic thrust, a more vivid and resolved presentation, greater finesse, and quieter operation. Great things came out of the 60s and don’t you forget it!. www.mcintoshlabs.com
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Innovations
There are tubes, and then there are iPod TUBES While we’re in the vintage mindset, but living in today’s world, a tubebased iPod solution makes a lot of sense for many folks. Why a tube dock? Well, if you want the warmest sounding MP3s, then tubes can really help take the endue off of digital music files. Even better sound if you use Apple lossless files, which don’t have any compression loss whatsoever. There are quite a few different solutions out there. Here are a few that are sure to get the conversation going at your next get-together. The iTube 452 is a fully integrated push-pull amplifier featuring no less than nine valves and four line input stages to offer 45W per channel of supreme audio performance. All aspects of sound reproduction are handled with incredible accuracy, with a full natural sound stage which is precise and yet fills the listening room with breadth and depth. $3500 www.fat-man.co.uk
Bang bang! It’s a digital world and wireless is the best part of that digital word. The newest iPads, and iPhones and iPod Touches have a great built-in streaming technology called Airplay. This simple solution allows you to stream from your Apple device to Airplay devices. Bang and Olufsen has jumped on board with a simple solution to allow you to listen to your tunes in any room. The Playmaker wireless audio bridge is a great way to easily listen to your favourite tunes wirelessly. The means that from the comfort of your clutch, you can pick your favourite playlist and send it wirelessly to this solution. Simple to use. Good sound, absolutely. It is, after all, from one of the legendary audio companies, Bang and Olufsen. Bang on, get it? Bang on! www.bang-olufsen.com/playmaker
Heady stuff Sometimes you are in a place you wish you could take a picture or a video, but your hands are occupied, like on a hang glider, or climbing a rock face, or plummeting down a steep trail on your bike. Enter the GoPro Hero 2 adventure camera. Strap this puppy to your helmet or arm or the front of your bike, and you are recording all the thrills and, hopefully, none of the spills! GoPro cameras are used by more professional athletes, sports filmmakers and core enthusiasts than any other camera in the world. The HD HERO2: Outdoor Edition is the most advanced GoPro camera yet. Wearable and gear mountable, waterproof to 197 feet, capable of capturing professional full 170-degree wide-angle 1080p video and 11 megapixel photos at a rate of 10 photos per second, the HD HERO2 is the world’s most versatile camera. Whether your goal is to capture a great day out with friends or you’re gunning for the cover of a magazine, the HD HERO2: Outdoor Edition can help you nail it and look like a HERO. $300 www.gopro.com 54 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
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Head of the class They say “you get what you pay for” in life. Headphones—or CANs, as audiophiles call them—are no different. Spending $100 for a good set of headphones will get you decent sound. Spending 10 times that amount will take you to another world. Headphones are the answer to invigorating late-night listening without disturbing your spouse or kids. At $1,000 a pair you would expect to be wowed by the sound. Well, that is exactly what happens when you fire up a set of Grado GS1000i’s. These statement headphones are a result of years of Grado experience and know-how. Grado, world famous for its reference phono cartridges, really gets it when it comes to making headphones. The bonus, real wood caps to add that feel of quality which is sadly lacking in many of today’s products. $1,000 www.gradolabs.com
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Gold Speakers Audiophiles be crazy, part deux...You like great sound. You love the colour of Gold... Well then, you just have to check out these speakers. The Heart Audio Gold Speakers. Cheap? Ya, I don’t think so. At 4.7 million ($4,700,000) a pair, you won’t see too many of these around. Ultimate bragging rights and impressive sound. The three-way system uses two main drivers. The bass and treble are handled by a single uniphase driver, the mids are handled by a separate driver. The gold case actually looks amazing, but also plays a role in keeping vibration down to a minimum. The speakers are also available in bronze and sterling silver, if you are a cheapskate, but we say go for the gold! The best part of owning a pair…if things get tough, you can always use your speakers as currency. Price…don’t ask, don’t tell. www.hartaudio.com n
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 55
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connoisseur’s choice
Luxury Rides
Acura MDX
New and Upcoming Luxury SUVs By Tony Whitney
A
lthough the market for all kinds of SUVs and crossovers remains strong in Canada and much of the action is around the lower-priced models, luxury models continue to prosper. These practical, durable vehicles fulfill all kinds of roles, from hauling the kids to a soccer game to pulling a boat or RV. In the world of automobiles, they’re the “jacks of all trades” and it seems that even among the wealthier, there’s a lot of appeal for a vehicle that can tackle a multitude of transportation tasks. The luxury SUV/crossover market is packed with outstanding products and even the very expensive ones represent great value for money. There are some new SUVs and crossovers coming for 2013 and we’ll take a look at those, but the market is well-served by products you can buy right now and you can depend that even if your brand-new 2013 model doesn’t look that different, its manufacturer will have made all kinds of improvements and upgrades “under the skin.” Top of Acura’s comprehensive line of SUVs is the MDX Elite, which boasts just about every feature a cutting-edge SUV should have. It’s a three-row vehicle, so there’s room for seven, although the rearmost seat is, understandably, fairly limited. Even so, smaller kids will love to sit back there and watch movies on the drop-down screen. The suspension is adjustable for different terrains and the RDX comes with Acura’s outstanding Super-Handling (SH) all-wheel drive and a 300-horsepower V-6. As far as luxury features go, the RDX lacks nothing and it will cost you around $63,000. 56 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
Audi Q7
Audi’s SUV flagship is the big 7-seater Q7, which is much-praised for its incorporation of this manufacturer’s “core values”—comfort, luxury, superb quality and one of the industry’s best all-wheel drive systems. This is one of the few SUVs that you can buy with either a supercharged V-6 gasoline engine or a turbo-diesel, also a V-6. The diesel records surprising fuel economy despite the bulk of the Q7 and it also has impressive torque for climbing mountain passes—even with something in tow. An 8-speed automatic transmission helps a lot with fuel economy. Prices range from $58,000 to $72,900. www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
BMW X5
Cadillac Escalade
Infiniti JX
All-new next generation Range Rover for 2013
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Audi’s rivals down in Munich offer a competitor in the form of the BMW X5, which has been widely praised for its all-around competence and true off-road capability. This very luxurious Bimmer is very popular in Canada and comes in several versions to suit specific needs. With this rig, BMW has concentrated on making five passengers as comfortable as they could possibly be in an SUV, so don’t ask about three-row options. Like Audi, BMW offers a diesel—plus inline 6-cylinder and V-8 options and a super-powerful twin-turbo V-8. Apart from the luxury element, many buyers opt for BMWs because of their engineering excellence, and they won’t be disappointed with the X5, whichever powerplant they choose. Prices range from $61,800 to $74,300. Among domestic luxury SUVs, Cadillac’s spacious Escalade is a popular choice, possibly because it’s one of a handful of vehicles in this class that offer conventional and hybrid powerplants. Both engine options are V-8s following Cadillac tradition and either way, buyers get an extremely handsome vehicle with excellent build quality and durability. This is one of the more rugged SUVs around because it’s truck-based and thus beefier than most rivals. You really can take an Escalade to any off-road environment where four-wheeled vehicles can be driven, though most owners play it cautiously, lest they damage the Cadillac’s jewel-like finish. Escalades cost from around $85,000 to just over $112,345, with the hybrid being the most expensive. For 2013, Infiniti is bringing us its new JX, a luxury crossover that’s being produced at a U.S. plant. A 7-passenger vehicle, the JX uses a 265-horsepower V-6 to combine refinement with reasonably thrifty fuel consumption. Apart from its luxury appointments (and few do better interiors than Infiniti), the JX will feature the world’s first backup collision intervention system. The system first warns of an impending collision and if the driver doesn’t react in time, it applies the brakes automatically. Naturally, there is a wide range of other safety features in this JX, following many rivals in this respect. Infinity believes that the luxury crossover segment is the fastest growing of all upscale configurations and the JX is the automaker’s latest response to this trend. Starting price in Canada is around $45,000. Infinity’s top product is the big truck-based QX, which uses V-8 power and costs $81,250 in fully-optioned form. The stately Range Rover remains the jewel in this British maker’s crown and for 2013, there’s an all-new fourth-generation model that’s lighter (39 per cent lighter!), stronger and more refined. Range Rover comes in several versions (RR and Sport), including HSE, Supercharged and Autobiography, with the last version being the most expensive at $100,650 (2012 model). All use silky V-8 power units and offer a ride like a Rolls, and most of the quietness, too, at highway speeds. The current lineup includes an Autobiography Ultimate Edition variant with a handcrafted interior in which the rear passengers get iPad docks. Open the rear hatch and you’ll find that the cargo area is lined with teak. No Range Rover has ever packed in this much luxury and technology before, but it will cost you $188,000. Even with luxuries like teak and iPad docks, you can take one of these amazing vehicles anywhere a wheeled off-roader can go—and sometimes, to a few trails which seem impassable even to a tracked vehicle. The new generation model should arrive at the end of December but 2013 pricing is yet to be announced. Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 57
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connoisseur’s choice
Luxury Rides
Lexus LX 570
Lexus has one of the broadest luxury SUV/crossover product lines in the business and topping them all is the elegant LX 570. For 2013, this truck is getting what the industry calls a “mid-cycle refresh,” so it has several engineering and cosmetic upgrades compared to its predecessor. The big 8-passenger LX has more standout features than we can list here—it is quite possibly the safest large SUV of them all. Lexus went for elegance and grandeur when it designed this product and it has great “road presence.” Seating positions are higher than usual, so occupants can enjoy a commanding view of surrounding scenery. There’s more than enough power from its lusty 5.7-litre V-8, though many buyers might like to see hybrid and diesel alternatives. Prices run from $87,000 to just over $94,000. North America’s other entry in the luxury SUV field is the stately Lincoln Navigator. It’s a large, rugged, truck-based product that, even so, has all the refinement and sophistication a buyer in that class could want. Its origins mean that no owner need worry about off-road forays and that also means exceptionally long life and, after all, this is a product most owners tend to hang on to for a very long time. There’s lots of power from a 5.4-litre V-8 and the interior is the best yet from Lincoln— beautifully finished, opulent and in excellent taste. There are certainly some outstanding SUVs with offshore nameplates, but this Lincoln can match or best any of them. Prices are in the mid-seventies. 58 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
Lincoln Navigator
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Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
“Opt for the remarkable Cayenne Turbo and you get an SUV that’ll perform like a sports car (Porsche has proved this at the legendary Nurburgring track) and behave in a perfectly well-mannered way when it’s expected to on city boulevards.” Porsche Cayenne S
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For 2013 we’re getting an all-new Mercedes-Benz GL class—the top model in the Stuttgart automaker’s extensive lineup of SUVs. The long-lived G-Class soldiers on for another year of rather antiquated (if expensive) glory, but it’s the GL that packs in the most technology and luxury. This time around, buyers of this outstanding and opulent SUV have a choice of three models—a GL 350 BlueTec 4MATIC with V-6 diesel, a gasoline-engined GL 500 V-8 4MATIC with BlueEFFICIENCY technology and an awesome GL 63 AMG with a potent twin-turbo V-8 and mega horsepower. These Mercs come with everything that could possibly be expected of an upscale SUV and although they’ll spend more time parked at the golf club or polo grounds or cruising upscale shopping streets, they can be taken to incredibly rugged territory, too. No price for this one yet, but the old series started at around $78,000. Since Porsche is hardly among the larger automakers, it’s surprising to discover that it has a very wide range of choices for buyers of its highly-regarded Cayenne SUV. The vehicle comes in basic S, Hybrid and superfast Turbo variants, so customers can take a number of paths when they buy this impressive product with one of the most storied performance nameplates in the business. While the basic Cayenne S has just about every luxury appointment anyone could want, the Hybrid versions add excellent fuel economy, plus some extra torque where it’s probably not expected. Opt for the remarkable Cayenne Turbo and you get an SUV that’ll perform like a sports car (Porsche has proved this at the legendary Nurburgring track) and behave in a perfectly well-mannered way when it’s expected to on city boulevards. Both S and Hybrid variants use V-6 power while the Turbo uses a mighty V-8, which develops no less than 500-horsepower, making it among the most muscular of SUVs—only the Mercedes-Benz ML AMG comes close. There’s something very special about any Porsche vehicle and perhaps the Cayenne expresses this culture of performance and luxury best of all. All the vehicles in this feature are top-of-the-line models, but there are some highly desirable SUVs and crossovers—slightly smaller and less powerful—a little further down the product lines that we’ll take a look at in a future issue. n Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 59
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connoisseur’s choice
Wealth
Which Way is Your Nest Egg Swimming? By Adrian Mastracci, KCM Wealth Management Inc. “In this business, if you’re good, you’re right six times out of ten.” —Peter Lynch, former fund manager at Fidelity Investments
I
nvesting to beat the markets has huge appeal. On the other hand, investing for the long run is by nature dull and boring. The excitement of hitting the investment home run always wins hands down. The pizzazz of “slow and steady gets you there” does not even register. The same story has been playing for decades; however, let’s be honest. How many investors and professionals do you know whose crystal ball consistently beats the markets? Hardly anyone…maybe none? Standard and Poors has released its funds scorecard for the yearend 2011. They found that 26.7 per cent of active large cap mutual funds outperformed the TSX Composite in 2011. That figure drops to 8.5 per cent for the last three years and to 2.7 per cent for the last five years. Nevertheless, investors keep polishing the crystal ball, hoping to beat the slimming odds. Perhaps there is a way to accomplish both missions more safely. Start by dividing your nest egg into two distinct camps: 60 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
• Invest most of it; say 80 to 90 per cent, in the boring, “serious” money bucket. Use professional management. • Earmark the rest into the more exciting, “aggressive” bucket. You manage this part. Revisit the wisdom of your decision every year. You can redirect more of the nest egg to the serious bucket anytime. This is a workable compromise that diversifies your money managers. It’s intended to preserve your retirement nest egg while delivering some immediate excitement. Much of your nest egg remains intact if your home run dreams strike out. As a bonus, you get to tell some fascinating stories about your attempts at outperforming the markets. I find that it takes roughly three years before the remaining aggressive buckets are folded back into the serious money. Still, pay attention to Mr. Lynch’s insight. Investors are trying hard to make sense of which way the markets are swimming. They are not alone in this dilemma. Investment gurus appear equally divided into three camps. Many are adamant that the markets will fall over the cliff. Others are convinced that this is the positioning before the next bull market. The rest paint the sideways dance. www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
No camp seems to enjoy a clear lead. Economic data can be selected to support each camp, thus adding to the predicament facing today’s investors and professionals alike. There is one much bigger question, however: Which way is your portfolio swimming? After all, that is what really counts. Markets are beyond your control, but your portfolio is not. Adopting a defensive strategy makes good sense. A prudent mix of assets is essential for your nest egg to keep swimming during stormy times. That is your job one.
“Markets are beyond your control,
Tough questions These are five tough questions I receive from investors. The first one is, how flexible does an investor have to be to stay with these pesky markets? Investing in today’s volatile markets, full of frequent stock rallies and retreats, means that your time horizon is at least five years— but preferably seven to ten years. Making stock market bets now implies that each investor has longrun expectations, invests within a comfortable investment profile, tolerates the portfolio risks and is well diversified. Investors have to accept that there will be more rough periods. Market turmoil and lowreturn environments are far from over. Embracing total flexibility is a taller order that ever before.
but your portfolio is not.” There are, however, some extremely frustrating stock market events. I call them “one day giveth, another taketh away.” Sometimes both on the same day. There are very few straight lines. The leash can be yanked firmly or released quickly any day. Trying to forecast market direction is a mugs game. If anyone needs more proof for this thesis, just examine results of the past 12 months. Be ready for quick market movements—particularly if you have cash on the sidelines. Sentiment can turn on a dime. The giving and taking continues. Surviving mayhem Repeat after me: “I am not in control of my portfolio—the stock markets are.” Don’t give up and throw in your towel. Your key task is to change who is in control. It’s the wise solution for all of your investing. Market haircuts of the last year are graphic reminders of the curve balls of investing. Everyone is wondering what to do with the nest egg amid the mayhem. Zeroing in on simple practices reduces the hazards of pot holes along your investing roadway. What matters most is how your portfolio fares, not the market outcomes. So, manage your interaction with the markets. Remember that markets are beyond management. Resist your urges to panic or overreact to sharp market moves—up or down. Buy quality investments that have specific purposes in your game plan. Add new money to your portfolio steadily over time, in good, bad and sideways markets. Tweak your portfolio periodically vis-à-vis your goals, not market results. These timeless tactics have delivered in the past. They transfer investing control from the markets back to you. Do yourself a huge favour and learn from your investing past. Continuing to react to every market hiccup does not work. Rather, it’s high time for a change. Take control of your portfolio and survive the mayhem. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Secondly, what kind of risks are the markets offering up today? Risk management continues a top priority. Investors are concerned and confused. Stock market risks are ever-present today. Headlines constantly focus on the Euro zone crisis, U.S. fiscal cliff and China’s economic slowdown. Investors have some positive economic data. However, they also have to deal with plenty of feeble data at home and abroad. In addition, investors tend to discount the good news and magnify the bad news. Thirdly, what is successful investing? Success is about making selections today that you want to own five or more years from now. It’s about being right more often than wrong. Every portfolio has its leaders and laggards. Making portfolio selections is not about always being right. Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 61
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Wealth
Part of acquiring the long-term skills of investing is about coming to grips with the prospects of being wrong. This experience touches us all, including the professionals. Fourthly, how important is it to follow a capital loss strategy? Investing is a game of probability. Everyone will be wrong some of the time. A loss strategy is the best medicine when the chosen picks go south. If the fundamentals change, take the loss and pursue other investments with upside potential. It is typically less painful to bail out early, rather than insist to being right and then bailing later with bigger losses. Invest like a professional. That first loss is your best loss. Lastly, what is a fearful investor to do now? My experience shows that too many investors are swamped in information overload. Getting rid of the excess makes it easier not to react to every market sneeze. It also helps you make fewer hasty decisions. If stocks or bonds are too risky, trim them gradually. If stocks or bonds seem to fit, buy them gradually.
“Getting rid of the excess makes it easier not to react to every market sneeze. It also helps you make fewer hasty decisions.” Sabbatical dreams Danny Kaye, the actor, once said that life is a great big canvas and you should throw all the paint on it you can. So, instead of trying to wrestle the volatile markets, I plan to take you on a whirlwind sabbatical journey. We are often reminded that we could pursue more personal enjoyment. Well, here is to rectifying that—your coveted sabbatical. How many dream of arranging a sabbatical (not just a vacation) and leaving the office behind for a long time—say, three months to one year, maybe more. I can attest from experience, having had a 17-month break, that sabbaticals are magnificent. I threw some paint on my canvas of life. It’s one of the best personal investments I’ve made. Sabbaticals are well known among educational institutions. Teaching faculty often arrange one to pursue research and personal interests. Sabbaticals have plenty of appeal. Imagine an extra-long time to pursue whatever you fancy, without your ties to the office. My 17 months away from the office were a series of very refreshing experiences. I had long lunches, pursued avenues of interest and travel, and had no pressing daily agenda or need to rush anywhere. A sabbatical offers immense personal satisfaction. It can be a time to reflect, explore, slow the pace, relax and change. Perhaps all of these at once. Think of it as your dress rehearsal to a healthy and happy retirement. www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Shaping your plan to turn the sabbatical dream into reality requires some attention. Say your desire is a one-year sabbatical, starting in four years. Consider these funding options: • Arrange with your business or employer a reduced remuneration to 80% for the next four years. Then be paid 80% remuneration in the fifth year during your sabbatical. • Another approach is for you to set aside 20% of net remuneration for each of the next four years. Then use this cash to fund your sabbatical. • If you can only obtain non-paid sabbaticals, arrange your savings accordingly. Then dip into them to finance your time out of the office. Something splendid happens when we don’t have ties to the office for long stints. We can experience and enjoy the fabulous escapade to rejuvenate the mind. The sabbatical likely involves family, say spouse and children. Arranging your sabbatical means considering a few matters, such as what is it that you and the family want to accomplish? What are your estimated costs for all who join you and stay behind? What do you have to massage to afford it? What employment arrangements must you and the family make? What changes does your portfolio need to make it happen? What happens after your sabbatical? In the end, we feel revitalized and invigorated. Often, with a fresh and clear outlook. A successful sabbatical brings about both immediate and longer term dividends. A little attention to the finances turns your sabbatical dream into reality. One which is truly satisfying and memorable. Let’s splash some paint on your canvas of life. n
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 63
Gainsborough Galleries
The Enchanting Countryside
Fishing Boats at Anchor
Tinyan I
64 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
Fresh Winter Breeze
Pond in the Park
n 1957, the city of Guangzhou in southern China held an exhibition of nineteenth century arts, which included a display of exquisite sketch work by the famous German artist, Adolph Menzel. His ability to distinctly capture light and shadow, and to transform themes of ordinary, everyday life into such extraordinary pictures of art inspired young artist, Tinyan Chan. Deeply moved by his first encounter with western art, Tinyan found himself filled with inspiration and imagination. Now, after a half-century as a painter, Tinyan says, “I have an infinite number of subjects and ideas in my mind waiting for me to transform them onto canvas or paper. It gives me endless inspiration and energy to work on my new creations. I enjoy putting out the best effort I can as an artist. My passion gives me much energy to work tirelessly on my creations.� Tinyan loves life and treasures what life has to offer. He appreciates what fate has given him, and is thankful to all his peers who have always bestowed much encouragement. He works quietly and diligently, remembering what his early school days have taught him: the importance of giving your energy to the work you love. Every day that goes by, without fail, Tinyan works on his art. Since the early 1970s, Tinyan has held more than one hundred oneman shows in many of the major cities of North America. He made his entrance into mainstream Canadian art society in the late 1970s by becoming a member of the Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA). In 1983, he was the first Chinese artist to be elected by the FCA as a Senior Member of the association, thus being granted the title of SFCA. Tinyan won the gold medal at the FCA annual exhibition in 1994 and a bronze medal followed in 2004. The extent of his achievements was acknowledged in 2011, when he was selected by the FCA to be the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the world of art and support of the FCA. www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
Birch and Maple in Winter
Nature’s Paradise
Symphony in Autumn Woods
Tinyan’s lifelong dream became a reality in the spring of 2012 when the Art Museum of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts in the province of Guangdong, China, featured a one-man exhibition of Tinyan’s greatest works. The exhibit, titled Tinyan Chan—55 Years Retrospective Exhibition, included 106 of Tinyan’s most celebrated creations from his private collection. Aside from his popular acrylic and oil paintings of cityscapes, landscapes, garden scenes, harbour scenes and still life, the exhibit debuted Tinyan’s unique Chinese paintings. The exhibition was a huge success and attended by government officials, art teachers, students and the general public. He has been regarded as a source of national pride to have created an internationally recognized following and was featured on several Chinese national TV broadcasts and magazines. Fifty years ago, Tinyan was an art student from a humble beginning. During his lengthy venture in the world of art, he has been steadfast with commitment and has insisted on perfection. He has won the applause of the art society. Much admired by art collectors and regarded as a master painter of the highest calibre, Tinyan feels greatly rewarded for his many years of perseverance. He looks forward to many more bright and colourful years to come. Tinyan will be in attendance at his annual one-man exhibition and sale of new artwork at Gainsborough Galleries on Saturday, October 13th, 2012. n
Victoria Harbor Waterfront
Gainsborough Galleries 441-5th Ave SW Calgary, AB Canada T2P 2V1 403.262.3715 | 1.866.425.5373 art@gainsboroughgalleries.com www.gainsboroughgalleries.com www.facebook.com/GoodLifeConnoisseur
Fall 2012 | Good Life Connoisseur 65
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Culture
The Secret to Powerful Productivity By Dr. Lesley Horton, MD
O
ne of the business entrepreneurs I do life coaching with has a challenge that may resonate with many of you. He’s too successful. For confidentiality purposes, we’ll call him Dave. Dave came to me a few months ago, seeking coaching on how to be at the top of his game again. Quite simply, Dave has a lot of skills and talents, and has been well rewarded for his efforts. Dave loves living on the edge of life and challenging himself. But the years of running on adrenaline are catching up with him. It used to be that he got more productive the busier he got. But lately he’s been noticing his mojo isn’t there the same way it used to be—he’s often tired, sleep isn’t as refreshing as it used to be and there are days where he has moments of overwhelm. A vacation helped, but only temporarily, and then it all came back. If this sounds familiar, you might be happy that a few months later, Dave is in a much better place. First we sat down together and did a few key core coaching exercises to get clear on his values and take a snapshot of how balanced (or unbalanced, in this case) his life was and identify his top goals. Further coaching exercises helped chunk down these goals into smaller concrete tasks with specific timelines. We enlisted a number of organizational tools to keep him on task in a fun way. We also created a Life Mission Statement which helped give a meta-view reminder of what was truly important in his life. One of those key goals was to have better health. I connected Dave with a top notch medical colleague in the area of preventative and integrative medicine to help identify if he had any hormone imbalances or issues of adrenal fatigue, given that he had pushed himself so hard for so long. He changed his diet, committed to an exercise plan and began natural supplements that greatly improved his vitality and energy levels. We also looked at his lifestyle habits. Dave was experiencing what a lot of us already know. He could keep on going, taking on more and more stuff, until at a certain point, circuits would start to overload, and he’d start to lose productivity. If he kept pushing, he’d begin to crash and burn. There’s a reason for that. Harvard Business Review published an article in the 1970s by Dr. Herbert Benson, who is a leading world-wide expert on mind-body health. He described the relationship between stress and productivity by using the Yerkes-Dodson Law, which hasn’t changed with time. 66 Good Life Connoisseur | Fall 2012
On graph paper, it looks like an upside down U. As stress increases (the x axis, or left-right line), so does productivity (the Y axis, or top-bottom line). The more stressed you get, the better your output, until you get to the top of the curve where the upside down U is poised to start down again. From there it’s a rapid downhill slide to poor productivity. In other words, where mild to moderate stress helps us power through our to-do list, more serious stress results in brain circuit overload, resulting
in falling productivity. Most busy, highly productive people operate in the high stress range, somewhere on the descending limb of the stress/productivity curve. Their output is still high, but internally the wiring is starting to short circuit from excess stress on the body and brain. If they consciously relaxed, it would create a shift to the left on the YerkesDodson curve, closer to the top of the inverted U. Their productivity would be greater while the toll on their body would be lessened. Research suggests stress is a causative factor in 90 per cent of all illnesses, so it’s good medicine also.
“Bottom line, the only workable strategy for maintaining optimal productivity over the long haul is to learn how to relax.” Bottom line, the only workable strategy for maintaining optimal productivity over the long haul is to learn how to relax. There are hundreds of ways to do that. Two books I recommend are The Little Book of Stress Relief by David Posen, MD, and Inner Peace for Busy People by Joan Borysenko, PhD. Also, just as an elite athlete has a coach to help them achieve their best, a life coach can help you transform your life for the better. This week, consider putting aside thirty minutes each day to relax in whatever way you enjoy. You will find that instead of constricting the amount of time available for you to get things done, your day will have greater ease and efficiency. The to-do list will get done, and your body will thank you, too. n www.GoodLifeConnoisseur.com
“Owl Alert!” painting by Hans Kappel.
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