Maria Montessori: An education system that passes the test of time

The Montessori method has methodically swept across the educational landscape, fostering young minds to think independently and shepherding parents to give their fawns a fair shot at a ripened yet revolutionary form of learning. With thousands of private and public schools across North America carrying on this legacy, why are Maria Montessori’s early 20th century revelations still so relevant?

The answer to this question is something John Chattin-McNichols, an associate professor of education at Seattle University, stumbled upon after he embarked on a serendipitous trip to Bergamo, Italy in 1970 — exactly 100 years after Montessori was born in a small town just a few hours away. At the time, the-then 20 year old was working as a summer helper at a Montessori school in the U.S., teaching preschoolers archery, ice-skating and other activities when he was approached to attend a training course abroad. “Because none of the Read more

Summer of Superheroes: The experts explain our fixation on fictional characters

If you make yourself more than just a man, if you devote yourself to an ideal and they can’t stop you, then you become something else entirely. A legend, Mr. Wayne. – Ra’s al Ghul, Batman Begins, 2005.

This line, so eloquently delivered by Liam Neeson in Christopher Nolan’s Batman Begins, the 2005 reboot of the Batman film franchise, is the existential nudge directing a once lost and disillusioned Bruce Wayne down the path towards dark knighthood — a storyline that wrapped up this July in the highly anticipated blockbuster The Dark Knight Rises.

It was the simple yet powerful push Wayne needed. Like a forest being born again in the aftermath of wildfire, this counsel guided his gaze to the set of ideals that could, if embraced, grow from tragedy. Principles that are put to the test when al Ghul places a blade in the young billionaire’s hand, ordering him to execute an alleged murder. Read more

Vaughan’s Best Restaurant Contest

FIRST PLACE: T2 LOUNGE This resto-lounge has given our readers the best of both worlds. With delicious dishes made by award-winning chef Domenic Chiaromonte, and an appealing bar-like atmosphere, T2 Lounge received an overwhelming response and came out on top as Vaughan’s Best Restaurant! Year-round, this front-runner caters special events. Many private areas are nestled into this spacious restaurant, such as the decadent dining room that overlooks the bar and dance floor. The heated patio features live entertainment and mingling patrons, changing the pace after diners have enjoyed an impressive Chiaromonte creation.

The Italian fusion cuisine may be one reason our readers have named T2 their favourite place to wine and dine. Owner Enzo Commisso recommends sharing an appetizer platter with friends. The innovative Italian sushi starter made with risotto, prosciutto, bocconcini, basil olio and spicy sriracha crema has people coming back for more. Unsurprising after years of experience, Chiaromonte’s dishes are complimented daily. “He has basically travelled the world and he’s won many awards,” says Commisso of his business partner. “He’s a fantastic chef. The food presentation and plating is phenomenal.”

Since its doors opened almost three years ago, T2 has been giving clients an unparalleled experience. An astonishing 650 people attended the restaurant’s grand opening, which was a big indication of the success that would follow. “It was an accomplishment,” says Commisso of the turnout. From that day forward, T2 continued to offer good food, a good time and good music.

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“A common compliment is that people think they’re downtown,” he says. Romantic interior décor, including mirrors and chandeliers, adds a luxurious element to the restaurant. T2’s atmosphere is what sets it apart from the rest. Unlike regular restaurants, it keeps its doors open and the party going until 2 a.m. The lavish lounge makes people feel right at home. “We’re not big on turning over tables — once you’re here, we don’t want you to leave,” says Commisso, who was born and raised in the restaurant industry.

Expanding their business, Commisso and Chiaromonte have opened up a sister company called C2 Catering Couture with Jeff Berg and Alison Kadlovski of Double Chocolate Fountain and Fun Foods. Now crowned Vaughan’s Best Restaurant by our readers, T2 will continue to impress Vaughan residents with impeccable food and irresistible festivities.

905-850-9990
www.t2lounge.com

SECOND PLACE: MOTORINO ENOTECA For our readers, Motorino is that home away from home. With a convenient and cosy location, this Italian restaurant has touched the hearts of Vaughan residents and become a popular dining destination. The enthusiastic staff at Motorino describes the atmosphere as relaxed and European. Sitting in a restaurant category of its own, Motorino creates classic Italian food in a young and trendy environment.

Authentic cuisine, which includes stuffed focaccia, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and handmade ricotta gnocchi have made this eatery a family favourite. “We sponsored our chef from Italy,” says Nancy Babochian, who has been around the restaurant business since she was a young girl. “It doesn’t get anymore authentic than that.” Motorino only opened its doors a year and a half ago, and since then, has seen clientele fall in love with its cuisine.

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Motorino brings classic Italian dishes to a homey environment in Vaughan. Patrons are often impressed with the wine list and the freshness of each dish. “Everybody loves the food,” says Babochian. “We’ll be changing the menu every year.” Keeping Vaughan residents interested with new dishes and satisfied with old favourites, Motorino has been awarded the position of first runner-up by City Life readers and loyal customers.

905-264-1911
www.motorinoenoteca.com

THIRD PLACE: ZIZI TRATTORIA This rustic Italian restaurant prides itself on friendly service and traditional dishes. “We’re not pretentious at all,” says Ara Iskender, co-owner of Zizi Trattoria. “I treat people the way I want to be treated when I go to a restaurant.” This business approach, along with the delicious cuisine by chef and co-owner Bill Zaya, has won over many City Life readers. Known for its gnocchi, veal marsala, homemade pasta and daily fish specials, Zizi uses quality ingredients and knows what it takes to satisfy its customers. “There’s a big Italian community [in Woodbridge], and they appreciate good food, good Italian meals.” Heartfelt tradition and authenticity is felt throughout this establishment.

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After a decade in Toronto, owners Iskender and Zaya decided to move north to a neighbourhood they knew and loved. Now in business for 17 years, Zizi has made a mark in the restaurant industry. As a family-oriented trattoria with a great reputation in Vaughan, it was voted second runner-up in this contest. Zizi has made an impression on customers, new and old. “I would say the best compliment we ever received was from an 80-year-old man,” says Iskender. “He said our tomato sauce is better than his wife’s.” Let’s hope she’s not reading this.

905-850-9875
www.zizi.ca

John Paul Adamo’s Hockley Valley Resort

My passion for food began at an early age. Whenever I was allowed in the kitchen, I would help prepare family meals. My traditional Italian family continuously instilled an old-world culinary philosophy of simple, ingredient-driven food. Fresh pasta with seasonal vegetables from the garden tossed in a Tuscan olive oil was the start of many nights shared around our kitchen table. My culinary education took me across Europe and North America, and in 2006, I came home to Hockley Valley Resort.

We have worked very hard over the past five years to turn Hockley Valley into a top Ontario culinary destination. One of the biggest changes was the installation of our on-site, four-acre organic fruit and vegetable garden.

Investing in the garden has been such a worthwhile feat on so many Read more

DreamCare Medicial

A medical revolution is stirring in Vaughan — and it’s being led by DreamCare Medical, a novel concept that’s rocketing the standards of health care to new heights.

Offering services that range from family health care and walk-in clinics, rapid access specialist appointments with medical and surgical specialists, to medical spa treatments and weight-loss assistance, DreamCare is equipped to meet — and exceed — all client expectations. Promising full client education on its services while erasing the lengthy wait times common in other Ontario facilities, the possibilities are endless at DreamCare.

With a diverse range of services headed by friendly, expert staff, clients are treated with professional care and treatments that make for a unique medical spa experience. “Our goal is to offer a full Read more

House Rules

Maximum Amortization Period Maximum amortization has been reduced from 30 years to 25 years

What does this mean? It’s the third time amortizations have been slashed in just four years. Canadians saw a decrease from 40 to 35 years in 2008. Then, in January 2011, they were reduced again, down to 30 years max. Finally, we are back at 25 years as it was in 2003.

A lower amortization period will mean a slight increase in monthly payments; however, a substantial decrease in the amount of interest paid over the life of the mortgage. Keep in mind that the increased challenge of affordability will only be felt by those who are looking for a 30-year amortization who have less than a 20 per cent down payment. Conventional mortgages will still be offered on a Read more

Improve Canada

It’s not surprising that the man who’s spearheading one of Canada’s biggest retail projects is in high demand, but the sound of Oleg Chekhter’s cell phone ringing for the eighth time in less than an hour solidifies it. Dressed in a pinstriped navy suit, the retail industrialist is relatively relaxed, despite the fact that he’s standing on over 300,000 sq. ft. of impending innovation. “We’re lucky that we got this place,” he says of the Vaughan structure, which sits at the nexus of Highway 407 and Keele Street. Chekhter and his two partners’ vision for Improve — the nation’s largest home improvement centre — will materialize in the summer of 2013.

What stemmed from Chekhter’s personal frustration in renovating his own properties evolved into plans for a full-service centre that will act as a beacon of light for fellow homeowners who lose time and money through improvement ventures. No longer will consumers have to Read more

Getting the Grade with Kumon

The home is a place where parent and child learn lessons of family, growth and education. When children are struggling at school or need to be challenged, they bring their concerns to mom and dad. Toru Kumon was a math teacher, but his station in life was being a father. It was in this role that he decided to create short daily assignments for the benefit of his son and gradually, for children around the world.

Since opening the first centre in his home in 1956, Kumon’s method struck a global cord, reaching 47 countries and over four million students. On the company’s global success, Lisa Kaul, president of Kumon Canada, says, “I think that there’s a universality to parents’ desires to have their children be successful. So I think it’s really fundamental and important to know that the program was started by a father who was interested in having his own children be successful, and that’s very much what drives the philosophy that we have towards learning.”
Read more

Condo Talk

Q: The media has been talking about the condo market bubble bursting. What are your thoughts?
A: Supply and demand is always a significant factor. Until supply and demand level off to a healthy medium, we will see an adjustment in the market. This is the best time to buy! Buyers have more selection and should be taking advantage of this. In addition, if you compare the value of the GTA market and Toronto with other world-known cities, you will find that we are still underpriced. This keeps the momentum of our market moving in a positive direction. Despite seasonal highs and lows, we still end up with positive results. Let’s not forget that condos are an amazing housing option, one that appeals to first-time buyers, downsizers, retirees, investors, families, and people of every demographic. Read more

Neece Electrolysis & Laser Studio

Everyone wants to achieve his or her best self yet, but the challenges of daily life make it hard to keep up with appearances. Covering all areas of hair removal, esthetics and beauty for over 20 years, Neece Electrolysis founder Angela Martino provides innovative solutions that deliver transformative results. As a certified laser technician and licensed electrologist, she offers leading permanent hair reduction treatments that deliver effective results for both men and women. EpilFree is one such product, using natural ingredients to effectively inhibit the growth of hair follicles. Visible results are experienced after just one session. “Laser and electrolysis excel at providing everlasting results, but if you’re planning a beach vacation, EpilFree is that alternative depilation procedure that makes it safe to be out in the sun after just 24 hours,” says Martino. A specialist in non-invasive treatments, she also takes her clients from flab to fab in just 45 Read more

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