OpenRoad Driver - Summer 2011 by OpenRoad Auto Group

Summer 2011 路 www.OpenRoadDriver.com

driving | living | you

5 NEWEST CARS CHASING THE CARIBOO SWEET CAKE PURSUIT THE FULL 360 A FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH HEAVENLY SWIMSUITS LONSDALE LULLABIES GAS QUEST BEHIND THE APRON INDIAN RECIPES ROLLING FOR GOLD

WIN $3,000 OF CAR ACCESSORIES

Experience the OpenRoad DifferenceTM

OPENROAD LEXUS RICHMOND IS NOW BACK IN THE RICHMOND AUTO MALL.

A different RX experience at OpenRoad.

2011 RX 350

starting at $49,000* * includes Freight & PDI, plus levies and applicable taxes.

Special lease/finance rates and cash incentives available for a limited time only. Experience the OpenRoad Difference.

Experience the OpenRoad DifferenceTM

Why just buy a Lexus, when you can own an OpenRoad Lexus?

RICHMOND 5631 Parkwood Way 13251 Smallwood Place Richmond Auto Mall (Richmond Auto Mall) Tel: 604-273-5533 Dealer D7827 Dealer D7825 Tel 604-273-3766 www.openroadlexus.com www.openroadtoyota.com

PORT MOODY 3166 St. Johns Street (West of Coquitlam Centre) Tel 604-461-3656 Dealer D7826 www.openroadtoyota.ca

IN THI S I S S UE

FEATURES 14

Travel

Where Our Road Takes You Chasing the Cariboo – Where East Meets West

25 Business

Company Spotlight The Full 360 - 360 Fabrication

30 Design

Interiors Fine Design Selections

34 Health

Trim Lines A Fountain of Youth – 10 Relaxing Positions

40 Autos

Rev Honda Civic Test Drive | Five Newest Models

50 Fashion

Make and Model Anna Kosturova’s Heavenly Search

56 Shopping

The Street Lonsdale Lullabies

62 Food

Plates Behind The Apron

66 People 70

Staff Associate Spotlight Stirring It Up – Jugdeep Thandi’s Indian Recipes

Community

Heroes Rolling for Gold – Pursuit Cyclist Laura Brown

EXTRAS 8

OpenRoad Lexus Richmond – A Pursuit of Perfection

Sweet Pursuit of Specialty Cakes

Guest Appreciation Contest Win $3,000 of Car Accessories

REGULARS 2

Publisher’s Note

OpenRoad Locations

OpenRoad Experience Infiniti, Awards, BMW MINI Langley

The Customers Always Write

Ask the Experts Gas Quest – Top 5 Tips to Save Fuel

High Beams OpenRoad Events

14 20 40 50 62 74

Cover Photography: Alistair Eagle Subject: Laura Brown Vehicle: 2011 Lexus LFA Art Direction: Will Fong

On the Cover Laura Brown is in hot pursuit of her Olympic dream in London 2012. This elite athlete is proud to wear the maple leaf as the reigning national women’s champion in team pursuit cycling. You’ll see her out and about, training hard and racing on local streets. But don’t blink… she may zoom right by you. Laura Brown is chasing a medal at the Summer Olympics and we know she’ll do Canada proud. Go for the gold!

P UBLI SHER ’ S NOTE

Chasing the Dream hen I was a young boy growing up in Indonesia, I dreamt of faraway lands, where maple leaves covered the forest instead of teak trees. Little did I know that my family would eventually search for a new life overseas. Canada became our new home and my dream became a reality. Today, I continue to pursue new goals and follow my dreams in this great country of ours.

Summer 2011 www.OpenRoadDriver.com

OpenRoad Driver c/o OpenRoad Auto Group Ltd. 13251 Smallwood Place Richmond, BC, Canada V6V 1W8 Tel: (604) 232-5347 Fax: (604) 232-5323 E-mail: inquiries@openroaddriver.com Publisher: Christian Chia publisher@openroaddriver.com

Each day I ask the 455 associates of OpenRoad Auto Group to treat our guests to a new standard in automotive retail – a higher standard. Through hard work, dedication and kaizen, I believe we’re succeeding more often than not. And this commitment has built the foundation to seek new opportunities and growth.

Editor: Will Fong Associate Editor: Melissa Mak editor@openroaddriver.com

I am proud to unveil the new OpenRoad Lexus Richmond store, the largest Lexus store in Canada. It represents everything in our quest to deliver a higher standard of guest experience in the automotive industry. This summer we look forward to establishing the newest member of our family, BMW Langley and MINI Langley in a brand new auto mall named The Collection. These are exciting times as we also announce Infiniti as the newest brand to join OpenRoad, scheduled to open in 2012.

Contributing Writers: Will Fong, Bruce Forster, Gerry Frechette, Vreni Gurd, Ben Hudson, Lauren Kramer, Cameron Ma, Melissa Mak, Rick and Chris Millikan, Mijune Pak

How appropriate, then, to choose “Pursuit” as the theme of this issue of OpenRoad Driver magazine. Check out our cover feature on Canada’s national pursuit cycling champion, future Olympian Laura Brown, as she prepares to go for the gold in London 2012. All our writers are on a mission to inform you, entertain you, or make a difference in your life. Whether it’s the sweet pursuit of the best specialty cakes, the quest for health and a fountain of youth, Anna Kosturova’s search for inner and outer beauty through her beautiful swimwear, or a trek to the finest dude ranch in the Cariboo, we hope this issue is, indeed, worth pursuing. Our very own pursuit of perfection is documented in the fascinating story on the new OpenRoad Lexus Richmond store. And our new feature writer, food blogger extraordinaire Mijune Pak, joins us in search of the best hidden fine dining restaurant in the city. We’ll take you shopping to Lonsdale Quay, tell you the top tips to save on gas prices, and introduce you to a car customizer who doesn’t think anything of putting 9,000 watts of speakers in your car. So, join us as we chase our dreams together. As they say, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you will land among the stars.” And enjoy the journey along the way!

Christian Chia

Art Direction, Design: Haydex Li

Contributing Photographers: Laura Brown, Christian Chia, Mindy Dosanjh, Todd Duncan, Alistair Eagle, Will Fong, Gerry Frechette, Melissa Mak, Rick and Chris Millikan, Mijune Pak, Budd Stanley, Paul Thandi Change of Address Notices: Return covers of undeliverable copies to OpenRoad Driver, 13251 Smallwood Place, Richmond, BC, V6V 1W8 or send e-mail requests to inquiries@openroaddriver.com. Postmaster: Send Canadian address change forms to OpenRoad Driver, 13251 Smallwood Place, Richmond, BC, V6V 1W8 Publications Mail Agreement No. 40599157 OpenRoad Driver is published twice a year by OpenRoad Auto Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. All views expressed in articles published in this magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OpenRoad Driver. Advertising in OpenRoad Driver does not indicate an endorsement by the publisher or OpenRoad Auto Group. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisers’ claims. Printed in Canada by Teldon Print Media

President, OpenRoad Auto Group

Win $3,000 of car accessories!

See page 38 for contest details. 2 |

OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

Advertise to 140,000 readers Advertising, Sales: sales@openroaddriver.com

OP ENR OA D LO C AT IONS

OPENROAD AUDI

Vancouver

2375 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC, V5M 4W5 T 604.293.2834 F 604.298.1329 OpenRoadAudi.com

OPENROAD HONDA

OPENROAD RICHMOND AUTO BODY Richmond

2691 No.5 Road Richmond, BC, V6X 2S8 T 604.278.9158 F 604.270.9105 OpenRoadRichmondAutoBody.com

OPENROAD SCION

Burnaby

Port Moody

6984 Kingsway Burnaby, BC, V5E 1E6 T 604.525.4667 F 604.525.8692 OpenRoadHonda.ca

3166 St. Johns Street Port Moody, BC, V3H 2C7 T 604.461.3656 F 604.461.9140 OpenRoadScion.ca

OPENROAD HYUNDAI

Richmond Auto Mall

13171 Smallwood Place Richmond, BC, V6V 1W8 T 604.606.9033 F 604.606.9003 OpenRoadHyundai.com

OPENROAD LEXUS

OPENROAD SCION Richmond Auto Mall

13251 Smallwood Place Richmond, BC, V6V 1W8 T 604.273.3766 F 604.273.2892 OpenRoadScion.ca

OPENROAD TOYOTA

Port Moody

3150 St. Johns Street Port Moody, BC, V3H 2C7 T 604.461.7623 F 604.949.7623 OpenRoadLexus.ca

3166 St. Johns Street Port Moody, BC, V3H 2C7 T 604.461.3656 F 604.461.9140 OpenRoadToyota.ca

OpenRoad Lexus

Richmond Auto Mall

5631 Parkwood Way Richmond, BC, V6V 2M6 T 604.273.5533 F 604.270.9028 OpenRoadLexus.com

OPENROAD TOYOTA Richmond Auto Mall

13251 Smallwood Place Richmond, BC, V6V 1W8 T 604.273.3766 F 604.273.2892 OpenRoadToyota.com

OPENROAD MAZDA

Port Moody

3170 St. Johns Street Port Moody, BC, V3H 2C7 T 604.461.9111 F 604.461.7988 OpenRoadMazda.ca

Experience the OpenRoad DifferenceTM

www.openroadautogroup.com

OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

NE W S F R OM OU R S TORE S

To Infiniti and beyond

new Infiniti location has been awarded to OpenRoad Auto Group. This will be the fourth Infiniti location in Metro Vancouver, targeted to serve the fast-growing Surrey/Langley area.

The new store will be located in The Collection, a luxury autoplex that is currently under construction on the corner of Glover Road and Langley Bypass in Langley. Current plans call for a 1.3-acre development site that will boast a 16,000-square-foot Infiniti store containing eight service bays. In 2010 Infiniti sales grew 16.3% in Canada over the previous year, with 8,233 units sold. Infiniti is expanding, having recorded year-over-year sales increases every month in 2010. The G family led the way and achieved more than a 10% increase, while the all-new M series and QX models were strong, showing respective 154% and 64% increases over the previous year. The momentum continues to build in 2011 through the addition of the new Infiniti Performance Line and M Hybrid. Construction begins soon. OpenRoad Infiniti is scheduled to open next year in 2012.

And the Winner Is...

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Retail stores in the OpenRoad family continue to win their fair share of awards. Here is a select list of recent achievements:

OpenRoad Audi Vancouver

Record volume sales months 2011 YTD

OpenRoad Honda Burnaby

Pacific Zone Summit Award qualification – 2011 Q1 unit sales Customer Care Leadership (CCL) Platinum 2010 – Paul Brodzinski Q Award – 5 of the past 6 years

OpenRoad Hyundai Richmond

#1 Hyundai sales volume 2011 YTD BC #2 Hyundai total CSI (sales/service) 2011 YTD BC

OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody

Pursuit of Excellence 2010 – 4th award in 6 years President’s Award 2010 Service – Steve Armstrong, John Hong, Jamie Rensen, Joe Knight, Cameron Ma Executive Award 2010 Parts – Julie McBride

OpenRoad Lexus Richmond

Pursuit of Excellence – 5 of the past 7 years #1 Lexus sales volume 2011 YTD Pacific Zone President’s Award 2010 Sales – Edward Sie Executive Award 2010 Sales – Philip Ngai Executive Award 2010 Service Manager – Anke Minty

OpenRoad Scion Richmond

#1 Scion sales volume 2011 YTD Canada

OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody

Toyota Pinnacle Award 2010 #1 Toyota total CSI (sales/service) 2010 Pacific Zone #1 Toyota Business Office 2010 Pacific Zone highest score Dean McLean one of the highest-scoring 2010 individual service advisors

OpenRoad Toyota Richmond

#1 Toyota sales volume 2011 YTD Pacific Zone President’s Pride Award 2010 – Andy Lee, Kendy Wong

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Joy around the Corner

eneral manager Aly Jiwani confirms that the new BMW Langley and MINI Langley retail centre is virtually complete and ready to open. “With construction complete in mid-July, we’re aiming to open for business in August,” says Jiwani.

The brand new BMW and MINI location is the first centre scheduled to open in The Collection auto mall, a luxury autoplex serving the automotive needs of Surrey, Langley and the south Fraser area. The development is located on the corner of Langley Bypass and Glover Road. Passersby will see a complete exterior structure with the new BMW and MINI facility, including exterior cladding, glazing and paving. A special MINI LED light band at the front of the MINI showroom supplements the original plans, plus an aluminum grid ceiling in the service drive-through and an 8-foot concrete perimeter around the property. Other special features in the 58,000-square-foot retail centre include rooftop parking, a BMW M display, MINI green living walls, and LEED® target silver designation. There will be a 26vehicle showroom for BMW and a separate 7-vehicle showroom for MINI, including a second-floor showroom. On the service side, there will be enough room to service 18 vehicles. Joy is just around the corner. Look for the grand opening announcement soon by BMW Langley and MINI Langley.

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SH A RE YOU R THOU GHTS . . .

The Customers Always Write A B O V E AN D BEYOND

B EST C AR E X P ERIEN C E

I first approached Jordan about buying a car in December. His knowledge of the Sante Fe and the Tucson was impressive. After discussions with Jordan, it was decided the Tucson would suit my lifestyle better. I come from a sales background myself – I was a realtor for eight years. I have seen many salespeople over the years. Jordan is outstanding! He goes above and beyond just selling a vehicle. When my Tucson was ready for pick up, I had to return my BMW sedan to my condo in Steveston. Jordan did not hesitate to follow me home to drop off the BMW and then head back to the dealership. Jordan is courteous, knowledgeable and a true gentleman.

I would like to commend Paul Chan for providing what has been the best car purchasing experience I have ever had. His knowledge of the car and ability to answer all of my questions put me at ease. I had no doubt after striking a deal, that I had done the right thing. On delivery day, Paul ensured the car was spotless, fueled up and parked in the front showroom next to three R8s, a very nice touch. I will not hesitate to recommend Paul or OpenRoad Audi to any of my friends.

Paula W. on OpenRoad Hyundai Richmond’s product advisor, Jordan Rasmussen

Thank you for setting up the technical checkup of my car last Friday. My car was subjected to a computer test, which did not discover anything wrong. However, your technician was nice enough to check things through himself. Whatever tune-up he performed, it eliminated the vibration of the engine while at low RPM. I was impressed with the professional and friendly service, and was happy with the outcome. Just wanted to use this opportunity to pass on my positive comment and a thank you to your service department. Dora B. on OpenRoad Mazda Port Moody’s sales manager, Roger Bhajan, and the entire service team

Thank you so much for the exceptional service today. The extras were such a lovely surprise and I do thank you. You are an asset to Toyota. Lynda F. on OpenRoad Toyota Richmond’s service advisor, Jennifer Chan

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Don B. on OpenRoad Audi Vancouver’s brand specialist, Paul Chan

We’d like to let you know about the fantastic customer service we received from your service staff at OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody, especially service advisor, Danny Leung. Our RAV4 has gone to OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody for all its servicing since the day we bought it, and we’ve had nothing but positive experiences with your front-end staff. Danny has always stood out above the rest. He’s very personable, friendly, attentive, and always makes you feel as though your concerns are heard. He consistently displays excellent communication and customer service skills. We sincerely hope that Danny is recognized for his service excellence. He’s definitely a big part of the reason why our vehicle continues to be serviced exclusively by your dealership. Thanks for employing and retaining such a superstar. Ethan & Bree K. on OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody’s service advisor, Danny Leung, and the entire service team

Doug was a pure pleasure to deal with at Richmond Lexus. His knowledge of the product is outstanding and being able to read into which model suited me best was a definite help! Really love the car and thanks for your expert guidance! Joey O. on OpenRoad Lexus Richmond’s product specialist, Doug Hooper

C O MMITMENT T O D E L I V ER E X C E P TI O NA L SER V I C E I would like to show my appreciation of your staff, Brian. I received excellent customer service at OpenRoad Honda. Brian, on several occasions, had addressed my concerns professionally and rectified the issues beyond my expectations. I am very impressed with his in-depth knowledge about the service I recently received. He thoroughly explained to me the root cause of the problem and how his service team fixed the problem. I appreciated his patience and his commitment to deliver exceptional service. I will recommend others to come to OpenRoad for service. Preston W. on OpenRoad Honda Burnaby’s service manager, Brian Maguire

We like mail... Send feedback on OpenRoad Driver to: comments@openroaddriver.com

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A Pursuit of Perfection T h e n e w O p e n Ro a d L e x u s R i c h m o n d by W i ll F o n g

“It’s like a jewel box.” Sales manager Chris Mah describes the building perfectly as we circle around the glittering exterior of the brand new OpenRoad Lexus store in the Richmond Auto Mall. I am visiting the newest and now largest Lexus dealership in the country, and what I see could very well be the crown jewel of luxury automotive retailers in Canada. The high-end finishings are dazzling during my tour of

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the facility, but I soon discover that it’s the unexpected that truly elevates this store. OpenRoad Auto Group president, Christian Chia, describes his vision, “I wanted to build the flagship store for Lexus in Canada. I had three things in mind. Lexus vehicles are incredibly beautiful and well-crafted, so I wanted to reflect that in the building. I also wanted to add amenities that were new

to automotive retail in Canada, and bring in ideas from the best high-end retailers from other industries around the world. And I wanted a building that would be sustainable to align with our company’s green commitment.” He adds with a smile, “This was our take on pursuing perfection and I hope we’ve done it!” It took twenty months and 400,000 construction-hours to deliver the vision. The result is spectacular – a testament

to luxury that will surely set a higher benchmark in the automotive retail industry. The sheer size of the facility is impressive, at 69,000 square feet, and there is exceptional detail and craftsmanship at every turn inside. As we enter the building the main reception area is open and stunning, with a backdrop that is both functional and sculptural. The entrance features a floating stairwell of cherry wood fins that scissor up to a second floor. The backdrop is a soaring 24-foot tower of translucent white glass panels bordered by angular pieces of matching warm cherry. It’s easy to see why this stairwell is in contention for a 2012 award from the Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada. The building is awash in sunlight streaming in through the all-glass exterior, smartly filtered by automatic louvers to reduce glare and heat. We’re now standing in the main showroom, looking up at two clear storeys of open space and a beautiful mezzanine that overlooks the main floor. The vista is lofty and grand. Fifteen perfectly detailed new vehicles are on the showroom floor, displayed at their best on the polished Savoia Deluxe Botticino tiles in cream – the all-new CT 200h hybrid, best-selling RX 350 SUV, and the IS and ES sedan lines are all resplendent in multiple colours. The showroom features airy neutral colours, Keilhauer Branden glass tables, plus

dramatic punctuations of Lexus black seen in the modern Barcelona lounge chairs and black galaxy car pads. The overall feel of the showroom is grand, sleek, inviting and ultra-contemporary. On our way to one of the two sales manager offices, we walk by twelve separate sales offices and I can’t help but notice the glass walls that give all the offices a very transparent and open feel. Once there, the impressive 9-foot high glass doors are an architectural marvel in the main sales offices. We round the corner and stop by a beautiful 254-gallon freshwater aquarium. This is the focal point of one of the building’s three guest lounges, where I’m greeted eagerly by red parrot cichlids, sarasa comets and tin foil barbs that dart back and forth in a graceful display of colour. Leaving the Zen-like serenity, we head towards the restrooms where I’m in for a few surprises. This is where the trend towards touch-free is taken to a whole new level. Just a quick wave of the hand and the motion sensor opens the door automatically for us. No need to turn a knob or touch a door handle. Once inside, technology meets elegance. I admire the Toto hand dryers, the dispensers, faucets, flush mechanisms – all touchless – and I’m equally impressed by the gorgeous finishing details. The cream Deluxe Botticino is carried into all the washrooms as a wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling field tile. The counters are

a sophisticated Atlas Stone granite in absolute black, accentuated by highlight walls that are a gorgeous black-andiridescent glass mosaic laid in a vertical strip pattern. The tiles are called Icestix Crevice, and they virtually shimmer like the Northern Lights at night. Upstairs, rumour has it the secondfloor showroom will soon become Canada’s first hybrid-only specialty showroom. Overlooking the main floor, this additional eight-vehicle showroom is accessible by elevator or floating staircase. The main design feature is a long white accent wall of stepped blocks and rectangles for texture and drama, particularly effective in displaying a gorgeous obsidian LS 600h executive hybrid sedan, a smoky granite RX 450h hybrid crossover and a tungsten pearl HS 250h hybrid sedan. We enter the VIP guest lounge on the second floor, and here we see the pinnacle of elegance. This lounge has everything you could ever want – it’s a high-end home and office away from home. There are two complimentary massage chairs to soothe your aches and pains. Plus, two 60-inch highdefinition televisions, crisp white leather lounge furniture, a fresh-air patio with Livingspace outdoor furniture, office workstations with complimentary Wifi, and an assortment of complimentary beverages. I highly recommend the specialty mochaccino, Finca San Ramon Estate coffee or the Bigelow Lemon Lift tea. It’s pure bliss here. Photos courtesy of Ventana Construction

We make our way to the open-air rooftop where more of the unexpected awaits us. The rooftop offers a magnificent 360-degree panorama of the North Shore mountains and views all the way to Mt. Baker. At any given time, two separate car elevators deliver 113 units of new inventory to the rooftop where a product specialist can escort you to select your very own new vehicle. We decide to move our tour over to the fixed operations side to gain the full experience of OpenRoad Lexus Richmond. Here, the south driveway leads directly into the large covered service breezeway that can hold eight vehicles simultaneously. Pulling up, we’re greeted in person by a concierge who directs us to the five service desk advisors and twelve technicians inside, including master and hybrid technicians. It’s all so effortless. The service team takes care of our appointment while we watch the progress of our vehicle maintenance on the real-time status boards. A background tour of the service area is truly impressive. Most guests may

not go behind the scenes, but here we really see OpenRoad’s commitment to doing things differently. Even the garage doors are an unexpected feature. They are pneumatic and whisper-quiet when raised, disappearing into the ceiling to make sure the beautiful sight lines of the building are maintained throughout. The service area is completely finished with wall-to-wall tile and a true ceiling, unlike most service centres. This is a laboratory setting. Every technician receives a proprietary computer and a series of matching Rousseau cabinetry to store tools overnight. This keeps the area pristine. They even have their own “Zamboni” to wash the floors every night. This service area offers the most in-store service bays in Canada. All twenty bays are plumbed with inground hoists, which is a very unusual feature due to the soil and water table in Richmond. With four delivery bays, six Lexus Reflections detail bays, four staging bays and a dedicated Lexus Reflections car wash, every possible luxury has been included for guests, including a 24-vehicle service loaner fleet and valet service as scheduled.

Over at parts, we’re tempted by the Lexus Lifestyle Collection inside the jewelry cases and the F-Sport Performance Accessories display. There is an astonishing amount of parts storage behind the scenes, with 54 shelving units that hold up to 432 parts bins depending on the configuration. But storage may not be necessary, as parts orders are filled the next day or on the very same day if an order is placed before 10:30 am. We’ve now come full circle back to the main entrance. After bidding farewell to my tour leader, I decide to spend the next few hours wandering through the building again at my leisure, just so I can take everything in one more time. This building has that effect on you. Final thoughts? It’s exceedingly rare when innovation, architecture, technology and craftsmanship all come together in one building at such an exceptional level. Perfection may never really be attainable, but OpenRoad Lexus Richmond is certainly the result of perfectionists who have delivered on their quest for an extraordinary facility. Let’s just call this... automotive utopia.

M a r k Wo r b e c k e caught up with the general manager of OpenRoad Lexus Richmond, Mark Worbeck, in between his recent trips to Toronto. He is proud of the new facility and even prouder of his dealership team.

Tell me what’s different about this new store.

Space! Space to work, space to breathe, just space! After working for what seems like an eternity in a dealership we had outgrown years ago, we’re now able to function in a way we only dreamed about. We’re now able to really grow the business and work toward fulfilling our goal to provide the best customer service experience we possibly can.

And how about the customer experience that OpenRoad Lexus Richmond clients can expect? Our guests can now book service appointments based on their schedules instead of being restricted by our previous limitations of staff and space and loaner vehicles. And those who acquired their vehicles from us will now be able to enjoy

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access to the exclusive VIP Lounge which includes massage chairs, 60-inch TVs, computer work stations, complimentary beverages and a relaxing outdoor patio. To satisfy any cravings for food or premium coffee, we also have an on-site café serving nutritious snacks and meals along with unbelievable cappuccinos and lattés – to die for! In addition, shoppers will be able to view up to 23 new Lexus models in our two-level showroom, plus select their vehicle from over 110 vehicles parked on the roof.

Your staff associates have earned numerous awards. As the leader of this team, how would you describe your people? Simply, we have the best team in the business. The key word in that statement is team and that includes everyone here at OpenRoad Lexus Richmond.

Where do you see Lexus and OpenRoad Lexus going from here? What’s coming up? Recently, Lexus has encountered a few speed bumps in its path. However, they are navigating through them with confidence and will accelerate back to full speed in the months ahead. And as we fine tune our operations in this new facility, we see a very bright future in the months and years to come.

G r e e n a n d S u s t a i n a bl e OpenRoad Lexus Richmond shows its commitment to sustainability and green practices:

O p e n Ro a d L e x u s Richmond Trivia • Non-combustible building construction

• LEED silver target facility

• Over 400,000 man-hours of construction

• 50% diversion of construction waste

• September 1, 2009 to May 2, 2011 – 20-month

• lights turn off automatically after you leave any room • 50% water consumption reduction and low-flush toilets

construction • 36-foot diameter (11-metre) Lexus logo painted on the

• reuse of construction resource materials

rooftop with 10-foot (3-metre) lettering to catch the flight

• use of recycled content

path

• largest hybrid loaner vehicle fleet in Canada

• 176,575 cubic feet of poured concrete (5,000 cubic metres)

• bicycle racks

• 50,000 pounds of steel (22,700 kg)

• bioswales and French drains for storm water management

• 49,000 sq.ft. of finished tile area (4,550 sq.m.)

• CFC reduction in heating and ventilation

• 18,800 pavers

• optimal energy performance initiatives

• Over 50 sub-trade companies

• interior carbon dioxide monitoring • use of low-emission materials • thermal comfort initiatives

Louis Tang

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THE BUILDER It took twenty months of hard work and a builder who could deliver the project on time and on budget. Ventana Construction was the general contractor that worked with OpenRoad Auto Group to make OpenRoad Lexus Richmond a reality. We spoke recently to Ventana president Jim Bond and director of operations Gene Gerwing about this project and future trends in construction. Congratulations on a job well done! Commercial and industrial building permits are way up this year in the Lower Mainland. Are you feeling the growth trend, too? JB: We definitely have been very busy and we do a lot of repeat business. We’re working on 10 to 12 projects right now. This year we’ve added 6-7 projects and probably 20 percent to our office staff. We’re lucky to be in Canada, lucky to be in BC, and lucky to be on the west coast. And you’re moving into a new location... JB: Ventana built the Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers building. It’s their 165,000-square-foot, LEED®-gold world headquarters. They were looking for a tenant that would fit well and 15,000 square feet is for us. That houses 40 Ventana staff and we can go up to 50 in this location. It’s fun to be in a building we built. It has a cafeteria and a gym and glass on all four sides of our office. GG: It’s in the Glenlyon Business Park where Ventana has built about 80% of the development. OpenRoad set out to make their Richmond store the flagship in Canada, offering a new level of luxury. How did that translate over to Ventana on the construction side? GG: On the service side OpenRoad Lexus Richmond is more like a laboratory with tile floor, an actual ceiling instead of being exposed, pneumatic airpowered overhead service doors that open up and disappear into

Project Pa rt ne r s

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the ceiling. There are some things that have never been done in the Lower Mainland. A typical service area usually has oily rags. Even the oil and water dispensers disappear into the walls. It’s pretty spectacular for service bays. In Richmond, you wouldn’t think of installing in-ground hoists. JB: Richmond is wet and sandy and all fill, so there’s not a lot of underground parking or structures. GG: There are a lot of other things you wouldn’t normally see. This store has a coffee shop, massage chairs and amenities. There’s a second-floor luxury car display area, which is unusual. There are two car elevators because there are a lot of cars to get on the site including 100-120 parking on the roof. You’re parking cars on every level. It’s a three-storey structure, not just a single-storey building. I don’t think there’s another local automotive retailer with parking on the second floor next to office space, with rooftop parking, and none with a secondfloor showroom and main-floor showroom. Tell me about the construction process. JB: Construction is a huge team process. Whether it’s the architect or the mechanical engineer, the owners or dealing with neighbours. It always boils down to relationships. We pride ourselves on our relationships that lead to repeat business. People are very, very important.

Retailer Manufacturer Architect and Designer General Contractor Financier

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GG: The owner has all kinds of ideas that he wants to incorporate in the building. We have to prioritize what ideas are most important and make sure when all the drawings are done that they’re still willing to pay for the building. We work in reality, and juggling that relationship between the owner, the architect and ourselves is key. It’s not an easy thing. We have to be the reality factor in the cost. JB: We spend a lot of time on the pre-construction phase working with the designers. A lot of times the owner works with the architect and hires the construction contractor later, but we like to get involved as soon as the architect is hired so we’re involved in the whole pre-construction phase. We think we can add value – value engineering to align costs, budgeting, solutions... This facility is targeting a LEED® silver certification and over half of your current projects are pursuing LEED® certification. With the strong movement towards greener buildings, how has that affected the construction side? JB: There’s no question now that both on the real estate side and with people who are leasing space, having a LEED® building is adding value to a piece of real estate. We’re taking it seriously. We have two LEED® Accredited Professional staff, a number of LEED® Green Associates and we’re involved in a lot of LEED® projects. We’re working on expanding our LEED® qualifications.

What are some of the latest green building options you’re seeing? Where are we headed? GG: LEED® is an evolving program and the green movement is definitely growing. As energy costs increase, it makes more and more sense for people to adopt these ideas. Car dealerships appear to be contrary to the green movement with all kinds of glass and things that, in a LEED® building, you’re trying to cut or reduce. It’s very difficult to do for car dealerships. OpenRoad is probably a pioneer in saying, “We know it’s difficult but we’re going to make it work anyway.” People are sure lowering the use of water beyond the norm, like recycling rain water. Energy sources, whether it’s digging a hole in the ground or solar energy. Green roofs, people seem to want to adopt that with a roof garden. These are all on the upswing to improve the saleability of their buildings. What other prominent buildings have you built that people would recognize? JB: The Langley Events Centre, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, Rocky Mountaineer Rail Station in Vancouver, Ballard Power research facility, Future Shop on Scott Road in Surrey, Prospera Centre in Chilliwack... We’re also building the new Mountain Equipment Co-op in North Vancouver, with more to come!

OpenRoad Lexus Richmond Lexus Canada Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning Ltd. Ventana Construction Corporation Scotiabank

ventana

Ventana Construction would like to congratulate the OpenRoad Auto Group on the grand opening of its new OpenRoad Lexus Richmond dealership. Our job on a project like this is to build relationships – to bring the OpenRoad management team, Kasian Architecture and more than 50 different sub-trades together as one cohesive group with a common goal. :H¶UH SURXG RI WKH ¿QLVKHG product, but we’re even more proud of the relationships built during this project. Ventana offers a comprehensive range of commercial construction services, including pre-construction, design / build or design / assist, general contracting, construction management, public-private partnerships (P3s) and LEED® green building consulting. Contact us today to learn why we think it’s important to build relationships, as well as buildings. VentanaConstruction.com 604.291.9000

r erl ea ltai o t inosnhsihpisp st ot ob ubiul di l do no n

W here Our R oad Ta kes You

Chasing the Cariboo

Where East Meets West Wo r d s a n d p h o t o s by C h r i s & R i c k M i ll i k a n leisurely road trip begins our quest for a ranch adventure. Retracing the canyon route forged by prospectors during BC’s Cariboo Gold Rush, we stretch our legs in Alexandra Bridge Provincial Park to view its heritage bridge and visualize that historic wagon road spanning the mighty Fraser in 1861. From Clinton, we head west into the high grasslands. Off the long driveway leading into Echo Valley Ranch, an old cabin recalls the arrival of cattlemen. Nowadays, golden summer sunshine

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bathes elegant new log structures. Lush green pasturelands roll eastward toward the Marble Range of mountains; to the west, wooded hills border a grassy valley that goes on forever. Greeting us warmly at Dove Lodge, Tonja outlines ranch activities and escorts us through the corral to our room in Lookout Lodge. A spectacular mural dominates the exterior, a wonder of inlaid wood depicting stylized aboriginal birds. Inside, paintings and carvings abound. Even the picture window in our cozy room frames pastoral panoramas. “You’ve got our best country view!” she grins. “Others look onto cabins and ranch buildings…the city view!” Self-guided hikes range from easy to difficult.

With time to spare before dinner, we investigate one of this property’s six forested nature trails…and soon realize we’re not alone! Gamboling around us, boisterous blackand-white border collies affectionately herd us along. Perfect companions, these ranch dogs play delightful games, often striving to out chase each other along this 2.6-kilometre loop. As guests and ranch hands gather in Dove Lodge lounge, whimsical wild-west caricatures amuse us in the downstairs games room until the dinner bell clangs. Passing an elaborate open kitchen where Master Chef Kim prepares daily gourmet meals, we find our seats around long tables. Owners Nan and Norm welcome us to this extraordinary destination. Platters of baked salmon, ranch garden veggies and

fresh-picked raspberries are passed family-style, as Norm entertains us with ranch history, “I’m a Brit; Nan’s from Thailand. In the 1980s we found this 160-acre ranchland and built our home here, where friends and family loved to visit. Gradually, it morphed into this unique guest ranch you see today!” An English couple extols their exhilarating trail rides into the wilderness and upcoming fly fishing lessons in stocked trout ponds. A Kamloops twosome blurts, “We’re here to decompress!” Our wondrous day concludes with a romantic walk to our lodge, shepherded again by guardian collies. Awakening to pink and yellow sunrises each day, we report for morning classes at the traditional Thai house. Sitting on floor mats alongside other early risers, we practise

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an ages-old form of yoga, stretching muscles from head to toe with fifteen easy-to-learn poses that whet our appetites. During our first hearty breakfast buffet, we learn about the ranch’s exotic Asian structure. Thai architect Dr. Pinyo Suwankiri designed Baan Thai House and Pavilion featuring the Sabai Sabai suite, where Thai therapies promise improved harmony of mind, body and spirit. Imported teak furnishings and fine artwork fill its luxurious penthouse. Energized and refueled, we embark on a longer hike. Our collie sidekicks gather; five crouching attentively up ahead, two remaining as escorts. Inviting us to play fetch, they drop sticks beside us with tails wildly wagging…and eagerly retrieve them until they dart off hotly pursuing frisky squirrels. In the barn that afternoon, we don cowboy boots and hats for a horseback ride. Head wrangler Flint introduces our mounts: Ernie for Rick; Shadow for me.

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He advises us greenhorns, “If you pull yourself onto your horse using that horn, you’ll flip your saddle!” Once aboard, Flint adjusts our stirrups, positions our boots and ensures the reins properly drape in our fingers. Ernie and Shadow respond to gentle knee pressure, following head rider Julie out of the corral and along a trail into the jack pine forest. Becoming accustomed to sitting high off the ground, we rock comfortably in our saddles, inhale the fresh, pine-scented air and enjoy our new perspective. Though rookies, we feel like old hands within minutes. When our horses try sneaking mouthfuls of blueflowered alfalfa, we confidently pull up their reins and urge them forward.

Leaves rustle under the dappled canopy, birdies chirp and breezes sigh. Pausing in sunlit clearings, Julie recounts her rodeo days as a barrel rider, her trailside encounters with wildlife and ranch chores. Overlooking a dramatic bluff under the bluest of skies, Flint tells about his former life as a fellow city slicker and eventual return to the Cariboo’s laid-back lifestyle. Merging onto the graveled roadway, our equine buddies sense their jobs are almost done. Picking up the pace, they trot briskly toward the distant barn. After two hours in the saddle, we stiffly dismount a little bow-legged. But we can’t help swaggering, proud of our success in this new buckaroo adventure. Some of our cowpoke friends mosey to the Cariboo Spa complex for spa

The Drive: Expect a 5.5-hour drive past exhilarating canyon and mountain scenery into BC’s Cariboo region. Remember to fill your fuel tank in Clinton or Cache Creek. From Vancouver via the Fraser Canyon: Take Highway

treatments, rewarding themselves with western rather than eastern pampering; others work out in the fitness centre. We loosen up in the sauna, soak in the hot tub and frolic in the indoor pool. This night, an authentic Thai dinner provides platters of spiced delicacies, glass noodles, sautéed vegetables and seafood. Traditional dances typically entertain guests on such evenings, enhancing the ranch’s East Meets West theme. Hiking to uppermost meadows the next day, we view the sprawling green ranchlands dotted with Black Angus cattle. Our return takes us above the fishponds, through thick reeds and over fence rails into a pasture where several retired horses graze with donkey friends. We amble up a grassy knoll, taking a gate past coops of clucking hens and gob-gob-gobbling pet turkeys. In no time we’re back on our sundeck sipping coffee and munching cookies.

1 east through the Fraser Valley to Hope. Highway 1 continues north, alongside the Fraser canyon, via Lytton to Cache Creek. Pass through Cache Creek and follow Highway 97 to Clinton. Travel time is 4.5 hours to Clinton. From Clinton to the ranch is a 45-minute drive.

From Vancouver via Whistler: Take the Sea to Sky Highway 99 via Whistler to Pemberton and Mount Currie. Take Duffey Lake Road (Highway 99) to Lillooet. When the road is open in summer, continue on to Pavilion and take a scenic shortcut through the Pavilion Indian reserve, through the Diamond S Ranch, up and over Pavilion Mountain to Kelly Lake. At the far end of Kelly Lake, take Jesmond Road to Echo Valley Ranch & Spa. Otherwise, pass by Pavilion and continue onto Highway 97. At Highway 97 turn north to Clinton. The ranch is a 45-minute drive to Clinton.

A Western cookout completes our stay. At the barbeque pit, Chef Kim explains how he was once executive chef in five-star hotels…and the King of Norway’s kitchen. He came here for one season…and stayed.

When You Go

As the Cariboo sun slowly sinks behind the mountains, a crackling campfire keeps us toasty. Seated on rustic teak benches, everyone shares their yarns of good times, guest-ranch style. All of us clearly enjoyed a taste of cowboy life!

Echo Valley Ranch & Spa 10635 Jesmond Road Jesmond, BC V0K 1K0 For directions and full activity details: www.evranch.com or email info@evranch.com Toll free 1-800-253-8831 for reservations OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

“A blast in STaSIS’ supercharged V10 R8 rearranged my

”

sense of time and space . . . now everything moves in slow-mo.

- Peter Wu, European Car

Up to 180 more hp than factory models Full product line including brakes, suspensions and exhausts Dealership installation and service

2375 Boundary Road, Vancouver

4-year, 80,000--km warranty

Tel: 604-291-2828 www.openroadaudi.com/parts

(south of Lougheed Hwy, between Vancouver and Burnaby)

The STaSIS power lineup delivers exotic performance at a fraction of the cost. Our portfolio spans the Audi lineup—everything from a Ferrari-beating, 710-hp R8 to a 410-hp S4 luxury sedan, to a rugged Q5 that outperforms the competition. No matter what Audi you drive, there’s a STaSIS product with your name on it. Installed by your dealer. Under warranty.

What are you waiting for? Now available at OpenRoad Audi (www.openroadaudi.com) and more than 70 dealers across North America. Learn more at www.stasisengineering.com.

Vorsprung durch Technik

E X TR A S

The Sweet Pursuit

of s p e c i a l t y c a k e s by M e l i s s a M a k

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emember that same old chocolate cake you had at your nephew’s birthday party, three years in a row? How about the traditional vanilla wedding cake that seems to appear in the same shape and size at every wedding reception you attend? Now enter cakes filled with crispy chicken bits. Or cake pops so lovingly decorated you almost can’t bear to eat them. Or wedding cakes custom shaped to any and every occasion, with flavours such as Sexy Chocolate or Masala Chai Torte, and designed to perfection just for you. It only gets better from here, as we take you on a sweet pursuit for the most special of specialty cakes. Sweet!

Le t T he m E at C ake Well, that’s not what Queen Marie Antoinette actually said, but it’s certainly what Marie Antoinette Cake Boutique is saying. Owner Estelle Matheson launched Marie Antoinette last fall to bring her amazing custom cakes closer to cake lovers in Vancouver. With fourteen years of experience in pastry arts and having operated Mozart Bakery in Langley for the past eight years, Estelle created Marie Antoinette as a division of Mozart, specializing in wedding, corporate, and special event cakes, as well as custom logo cookies. Get your cake made from scratch and in any shape or size at Marie Antoinette. And I mean any shape and size, including a three-dimensional MRI machine cake, for 100 servings and complete with a patient on the table wearing a hospital gown. That was an order Marie Antoinette Cake Boutique had received last year to celebrate the arrival of a new MRI machine at a local hospital. Now that is a sweet celebration! On the menu at Marie Antoinette you’ll find approximately forty mouth-watering flavours to choose from like their most popular flavour, Sexy Chocolate, a dark Belgian chocolate torte filled with raspberry preserves, raspberry cream cheese icing and dark chocolate ganache. Or try the latest additions on the menu – the Masala Chai Torte and the Macadamia Torte. The former is a chai-spiced honey cake filled with white chocolate ganache, caramelized pears, and a buckwheat honey mascarpone mousse. The latter is a dark chocolate cake filled with chocolate mousse, Dulce de Leche caramel and toasted macadamia nut praline. If you think that sounds good, wait until you hear what your taste buds have to say! Marie Antoinette Cake Boutique / Mozart Bakery 604.308.6144 #12 - 20349 88th Avenue, Langley estelle@weddingcakesvancouver.com OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

Thinking Outside the…Cup Guys, here are some bold and savoury cupcakes that you won’t be embarrassed to eat! That’s exactly what can be said of the mancakes from ManCakes Bakery. Having just made their big debut in Vancouver recently, the all-male team at ManCakes including owner Jeremy, his business partner Geoff and head chef Tyler, is on a mission to create some of the most extraordinary cupcakes you’ll ever taste. Made with bacon, chicken, brie and whiskey, amongst other wild and mind-boggling ingredients, mancakes are created for men, by men. Try their flagship Buffalo Wing cupcake, or their Bacon Chili Chocolate cupcake. And if meat isn’t your thing, try a Rum & Coke cupcake or the Tequila Pineapple cupcake. Technically made with men in mind, there’s no doubt ladies will also enjoy these exciting cupcakes. But for those who aren’t big on having bacon or chicken in their cupcakes, try a Pink Peppercorn Grapefruit cupcake, also from ManCakes Bakery. Choose from ten different flavours or get them in ‘Day Packs’ and ‘Night Packs’ with assorted flavours. Whichever flavour you choose, you’ll be sure to find surprising and unusual ingredients in every bite. ManCakes Bakery 778.886.5323 ManCakesBakery.com Eat@ManCakesBakery.com

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I t ’ s a P i e c e of C a k e For Anna Elizabeth Cakes owner, Anna Wawzonek, it sure is a piece of cake to create one of her incredible custom cakes. The work of Anna is, however, more than just a regular piece of cake, and has been featured in various publications both nationally and internationally. Launched early this year, Anna Elizabeth Cakes specializes in custom cake designs for weddings and special occasions. With flavours ranging from chocolate cake with mocha meringue buttercream, dark chocolate ganache and chocolate espresso crunch, to vanilla bean cake with toasted coconut buttercream and fresh raspberries, the possibilities to surprise and please your taste buds are endless. To ensure that every order is designed and created to fit each person’s style and taste, Anna also encourages her clients to mix and match flavours on her existing menu, or to put in special requests for a custom-flavour creation. Ask Anna about the 6’ x 4’ scale replica of a church that she made for a client, and she will tell you that her cakes come in some unusual forms and sizes. Having completed an internship with lavish cake boutique Cake Opera Co. in Toronto, Anna possesses the skills and talent to turn just about any shape into exquisite edible art. Anna Elizabeth Cakes 778.988.4589 AnnaElizabethCakes.com annaelizabethcakes@hotmail.com

P op g o e s t h e … Cake! A project that initially started off as a present for a friend’s birthday became such a hit that Binh’s Lollicakes owner, Binh Ho, eventually decided to start up her own business. With the exploding popularity of cake pops, Binh was determined to add her creativity and love of baking into the mix to create her own version of these little delectable bites of heaven. More than just cakes on a lollipop stick, the Binh’s Lollicakes creations feature different flavours in an array of shapes, colours and designs. Try their red velvet, lemon or coconut cake flavours, just to name a few, and mix and match with frosting flavours like rich chocolate buttercream, fresh strawberry, or cream cheese. Or, if you like it cheesy, have yours made with cheesecake, also available in flavours like chocolate, Oreo crumbs, apple pie, and mango swirl. And if that amazing selection isn’t what you’re looking for, Binh’s Lollicakes also takes special requests for other flavours.

Sweet Beginnings... a n d M u c h Mo r e It was truly sweet beginnings for The Willow Tree Cakery and owner, Heather Dawson. Having been a former ceramic artist and art teacher, Heather took her creativity and artistic background and carried it over into cake art, launching The Willow Tree Cakery the same time her daughter turned one. What started off as a special cake for herself turned into a few more cakes for friends and loved ones. Then came some more…and many more, and now this self-taught cake artist is finding no shortage of custom cake orders from clients all over. From a Hawaiian-themed cake for the traveller to the dragon boat cake for the athlete, the exquisitely detailed beer stein cake for Dad or the princess-themed cupcakes for the princess in the family, The Willow Tree Cakery is where you’ll find sugary bliss for everyone. So, who says you can’t have your cake and eat it, too? In fact, we think you’ll also love it. The Willow Tree Cakery 604.272.3895 willowtreecakery.com willowtreecakery@me.com

Each lollicake is hand-decorated and individually wrapped for convenience and to maintain its freshness. Lollicakes can also be showcased in a beautiful arrangement, perfect as a gift for the sweet someone and anyone who deserves to be spoiled. Binh’s Lollicakes #2210 - 8788 McKim Way, Richmond 604.780.1935 Binhslollicakes.com LolliCakes.ltd@live.com OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

recipes Lemon Tartlets Courtesy of Marie Antoinette Cake Boutique • 3 large eggs • 3/4 cup granulated white sugar • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (2-3 lemons) (do not use bottled lemon juice) • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature • 1 tablespoon finely shredded lemon zest • 12 tart shells (3” diameter) (use your favourite pie dough recipe or purchase frozen shells)

Bake empty tart shells in oven at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden. Cool completely and set aside. Combine eggs, sugar, juice and zest in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk until combined and place over a pot of boiling water. Add butter and cook while occasionally whisking until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 15 minutes. Pour hot mixture into clean bowl and set aside to cool completely. Chill at least four hours. Spoon chilled mixture into baked tart shells. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves. Use leftover curd to spread on toast!

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Basic Cake Pops Courtesy of Binh’s Lollicakes

V a n i ll a C a k e • 2 1/2 cups cake flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 1/2 cups sugar • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (3 sticks), softened • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten • 1 teaspoon white vinegar • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1 cup whole buttermilk • vegetable oil cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray two 9-by-2-inch round cake pans with cooking spray. Set aside. In a medium bowl, sift together flour and baking soda. Set aside. In a medium bowl, combine sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, vinegar and vanilla. With an electric mixer, beat until light and fluffy, about two minutes. Gradually add flour mixture and mix on low speed just until flour has been incorporated. Slowly add buttermilk and beat to combine. Divide batter among pans; each pan will be about half full. Tap pans on counter to remove bubbles. Bake until a cake tester inserted into the middle comes out clean, about 30 minutes. Remove the pans to a rack to cool cakes completely before crumbling for cake balls. Freeze any unused cake in an airtight container or freezer bag until ready to use.

V a n i ll a Buttercream Frosting • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 3 tablespoons whole milk

Beat butter at medium until soft and resembles mayonnaise, about 2 minutes. Add powdered sugar and beat slowly to blend. Add vanilla extract and milk until well blended. Store any unused frosting in airtight container for up to five days.

C a k e P op s A s s e m bly • 1 bag candy coating (colour of your choice) • candy or sprinkle to decorate pops • shortening • large foam piece • lollipop sticks (6 inches)

Crumble cake finely. Add frosting until cake is moist and sticks together when squeezed in hands, about 3/4 of a cup. Work frosting in a little at a time and avoid using entire frosting or else cake will be too moist. Spoon out two tablespoons of cake mixture at a time and roll into balls slightly larger than a golf ball. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in refrigerator for two hours or in freezer for 20 minutes. Do not freeze hard; just firm to dip. Melt candy coating in microwave or in double boiler according to package. Coating must be in bowl deep enough to submerge a cake ball in one dip. If coating is too thick, add shortening and reheat in microwave at 30-second intervals until shortening is completely melted and mixed in. Remove cake balls from refrigerator. Dip lollipop stick in candy coating to depth of 1/2 inch to stabilize the cake ball onto the stick. Insert the dipped end into cake ball and submerge the cake ball into melted candy coating. Let excess coating drip off. Gently tap hand to assist. Use sprinkles or candy and decorate to your heart’s content!

B U S INE S S

The Full 360 by W i ll F o n g

pparently Queen Elizabeth II prefers her Bentleys with cloth seats and a royal purple veneer. No problem. Jay Leno would like jet turbines installed on his EcoJet concept supercar. Done. Tim Allen wants a 2008 Ford Mustang GT painted dark highland green à la Steve McQueen in Bullitt. Just pull the trigger. Abbotsford might be best known for its farmland and airport, but coowners Rick and Daryl Francoeur have built a growing business in the Fraser Valley to meet special requests just like these. 360 Fabrication is a custom shop and fabricator that carries an attitude that “nothing is impossible” when it comes to cars. And the company is on the move... fast. In five short years the Francoeurs have built 360 Fabrication into the second-largest custom auto shop in Canada, winning over 500 awards along the way including the coveted George Barris Award. Today they handle custom cars, hot rods, muscle cars, bikes and exotics – it’s a fantasy-come-true for boys and their toys. They

also do collision repair, glass, upholstery and audio work all under one roof. Their business has expanded recently to include 360 Collision, Carstar Abbotsford, 360 Upholstery and 360 Car Audio and Marine Services. “The crazy milliondollar stuff gets the covers and the news, but don’t forget we also do $200 jobs and work on stuff for regular people, too,” laughs Rick Francoeur. Their brand new facility is 22,000 square feet of clean and controlled activity with a Toyota 2000GT in one corner, Red Bull’s next-generation Sugga 3 nearby, regular collision jobs, plus an AC Cobra in another bay. Everyone goes about their job with an easygoing sense of purpose. It’s a folksy, family-like atmosphere among the 25 staff but there is also pride and determination that appear to be common traits at the shop. Older brother Rick is a certified auto body technician and frame specialist, while Daryl is a licensed aviation engineer, mechanic and machinist. Besides running the overall business, they’re both very hands-on with the actual vehicles. Daryl is more behind the scenes, so we caught up with Rick to ask about the recent expansion at 360 Fabrication.

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This 2008 fullcustom chopper has an S&S T124 engine that kicks 129 horses. It was built by 360’s Daryl Francoeur as a present for his brother, Rick.

360 puts a brand new F-350 in a 1957 Volvo body. Red Bull’s custom-built Sugga 3 has 9,000 watts of speakers, three 47-inch TVs and a full DJ booth. This car screams, literally.

A 1969 Chevy Camaro is completely hand built by 360 Fabrication, supercharged with a 572 Big Block and a 150 shot of nitrous, plus a custom $40,000 Italian audio system by Audison and Hertz.

Toyota 2000GT photos by Christian Chia Contributed photos by Budd Stanley and 360 Fabrication

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You’re already the biggest in Western Canada after only five years. What made you get into the business of custom cars and restorations? We’re the second largest in Canada now. We were in the collision business to start but we liked the creativity and the attitude that there’s no ceiling. We can do anything your imagination can conjure up. The only limit is a customer’s pocketbook! (laughing) As a kid we were always building things – a 40-foot fort, jumps on a lake. When Daryl was ten and I was twelve we had our own lawn maintenance company on Sproat Lake in Port Alberni earning $1,100 per month. That was good money for those days even for adults.

shop, upholstery centre, audio centre and body shop all under one roof. What’s the rationale? 360 means full-circle service. We want to make it easy to bring a vehicle to one place for everything. It keeps the costs down and it’s hard for competitors because the quality is high, the costs are down, and there’s a greater sense of pride when everything is done here centrally. Everything from one division affects everyone else.

Is there a waiting list? You guys are so busy… Not right now. We have 25 staff and everyone’s working, but we can always handle more. We’ll make the time!

360 has grown so big so fast, so what’s the secret to managing the growth?

Have some of your cars sold at the Barrett-Jackson custom car auction?

It’s a full-time job managing growth. Sometimes you look at your bank account and you spent it all on growth, but we own everything with minimal debt. We bought our own building and bought our equipment with cash. It’s been very controlled even though our growth looks fast. The reason we’ve grown so fast is we do what we say we will.

We did a Ford F-350 pickup dualdual air ride with a matching 30-foot offshore race boat in candy green. That was crazy! We totally rebuilt everything to match the truck and it sold as a unit together at Barrett-Jackson.

Obviously we’re real proud of O-zilla, the Scion xB we did for OpenRoad Scion. That kicked us off into a whole new league on the corporate vehicle side. The hottest car we just finished is a 1970 Chevelle that’s just over the top. It has a 572 inside, all hand-made interior. It’s the cover of Canadian Hot Rods magazine.

What’s it like working with your brother every day? Does the eldest get to pull rank? We grew up together and we still go for lunch together every single day. We live less than a block apart and you couldn’t ask for a better brother and business partner. Sure, we have arguments sometimes but we’re brothers first and business partners second. Yes, I’m the eldest, so sometimes I pull rank. On the technical side he pulls rank.

What do you drive? And what do you want to drive? I just got a Denali 3500 one-ton crew cab pickup truck. And I do want to drive a Ferrari. And the new Lexus LFA!

This is like choosing your favourite kid, but I’ll ask anyway. Over the years, which car are you most It’s unusual to see a custom proud of? fabrication shop, glass

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“They call me GT... Toyota 2000GT.” he 1967 movie, You Only Live Twice, starred Sean Connery as James Bond, Akiko Wakabayashi as Bond girl Aki, plus a certain special vehicle that would become known as Japan’s first supercar: the Toyota 2000GT. In 1966 producer Albert Broccoli was looking for something original and exotic as he made plans for his upcoming Bond film in Japan. Just one year prior, Toyota had created a sensation at the Tokyo Motor Show by unveiling a stunning concept for a world-class sports car from Asia. It was the perfect fit. Toyota agreed to craft a custom convertible version of the 2000GT as the new Bond car, and an instant classic was born. The production version would be a two-seat hardtop coupé to rival the best low-volume European sports cars of the day. The 2000GT featured the sleek and curvaceous design of Satoru Nozaki, an aluminum body, classic red or white exterior, genuine rosewood interior, and two sets of headlamps including a pair of pop-ups. With a 150-horsepower, 2.0-litre inline 6-cylinder engine, its racing pedigree was firmly established clocking in at speeds of 220 km/h. Limited production of the Toyota 2000GT took place between 1967 and 1970. Just 351 units were built and only 54 were shipped to North America. It is not known how many collectors have brought 2000GTs to Canada, but Christian Chia of OpenRoad Auto Group managed to bring one of the rare units to Vancouver. In 2003 Chia traveled to New England to acquire a 1967 model 2000GT from Saco Toyota, a small dealership in Maine. “We plan to keep this GT for the long haul,” says the proud owner, adding, “We purchased it for the purpose of displaying the best of Toyota’s history.” The 2000GT in Vancouver has just been completely restored to its original condition by 360 Fabrication. If you’re lucky, you may just catch a rare glimpse of it on occasion at OpenRoad Toyota in Richmond or Port Moody. You’ll be shaken and stirred.

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A definitive Toyota 2000GT resource (in French): www.2000gt.net

Toyota 2000GT Specifications • Model MF10 • Production 09/1966 to 10/1970 • Total built 351 units • Length 4,175 mm (164.4 in) • Width 1,600 mm (63 in) • Height 1,160 mm (45.6 in) • Weight 1,120 kg (2,469 lbs) • Tires Dunlop SP41, 165 HR 15 • Engine 3M liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 6-cylinder, 12-valve DOHC • Body steel backbone frame, welded semi-unit aluminum body • Displacement 1.988 litre (121.3 cu in) • Gearbox 5-speed Manual • Horsepower 150 hp / 112 KW at 6,600 rpm • Torque 175 Nm / 129 ft lbs at 5,000 rpm • Top speed 220 km/h (137 mph) • 0-100 km/h acceleration 9.0 sec • 0-60 mph acceleration 10.1 sec

What do we mean by ‘anticipate’? We knew you were going to ask that. It means putting ourselves firmly in your place and anticipating your future. It also means helping you build, preserve, and transfer your wealth by creating a customized, tax-efficient strategy that aligns your investments with your retirement, philanthropic, and estate plans. Pursuing your best financial future with Scotia Private Client Group. Vancouver Scotia Private Client Group Centre 604-718-7100 Toll Free:1-888-723-1122

scotiaprivateclientgroup.com ™ Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used by its affiliates under license.

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INTERIOR S

F i n e D esig n S e l e c t i o n s by B r u c e F o r s t e r

Ikat Oriental Rug

henever I’m starting on a new design project, and the room is calling out for something unusual on the floor, I often go to Peter Tolliday Oriental Carpets. He keeps a good stock of wonderful rugs. In particular, there are some rugs that are quite exciting that are inspired by the traditional Ikat patterns of the 17th century of the Turkmenistan region. The Ikat pattern is at once very traditional and very contemporary. With strong patterns combined with vibrant colours, it is easy to create the perfect starting point for any room. Another good thing is that these carpets are made in the classical way, with vegetable-based dyes, hand-loomed and hand-knotted wool, and are completely hand finished. This is something that will last, and definitely worth pursuing! Peter Tolliday Oriental Carpets 2312 Granville Street, Vancouver 604.733.4811 tollidayoriental.com

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Vases and vessels

ow that the sunshine is here, there is no better time to be thinking about a little refresher for your house. One of the best places to go for that extra little home pick-me-up is to Heather Ross [in house]. In particular, Heather has wonderful glass pieces that will give any room just that right colour infusion. With such great colours, you can use them alone or group them together for even more impact. I like to do groups, as it is so easy to add flowers or even another element. They are especially nice to use on any table where you’re eating, as the colours and shapes play so well off each other. The closer you get to these pieces, the easier it is to see what makes them so attractive. Heather Ross [in house] 1525 West 6th Avenue, Vancouver 604.738.4284 heatherrossinhouse.com

Hand-forged flatware

ne of the places that I like to go when pursuing the finishing touches for any design project is the Crafthouse on Granville Island. Lately, I’ve been particularly struck by the unique beauty of the hand-forged utensils by Stefanie Dueck. Dueck is one of the new, young breed of craftspeople that are exploring new directions using traditional methods of craft. Her metal pieces are very unusual, with one of my clients calling them functional sculpture. When you see them, you immediately want to pick them up and use them. They feel right in the hand, something that is not as easy to achieve as you might think. With the combination of metals and the lovely soft patination that Dueck gives to her pieces, these are things to be treasured each time they are used.

Craft Council of BC – Crafthouse 1386 Cartwright Street, Vancouver 604.687.6511 craftcouncilbc.ca stefaniedueck.com

Bruce M. Forster is the owner of Preston’s Interiors Limited, specializing in upper-end residential design. He is a member of the Interior Designers Institute of BC and the Interior Designers of Canada, NCIDQ. He has designed for international summits such as the G8, APEC and Commonwealth Heads of Government, and created numerous designer show homes, special events and exhibitions.

OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

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Tel: 604-461-9111 Dlr 30875 www.openroadmazda.ca www.openroadautogroup.com

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inter will be here sooner than you think, and we want to help you beat the rush - with special preseason oďŹ&#x20AC;ers on parts and accessories that can help you travel further, feel safer, and keep your Audi in top shape longer. At OpenRoad Audi Vancouver, we have sizzling wheel and tire packages created just for your Audi, guaranteed to take the chill out of the upcoming winter. For more on available Audi accessories, visit audi.ca/aftersales or see us at OpenRoad Audi's parts department.

Christmas Comes Early Winter Tire Package

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Plan ahead and save. Call now before October 17th for our special Christmas Comes Early Winter Tire Package, available only at OpenRoad Audi Vancouver. All packages include: 4 tires, 4 Audi factory winter rims, wheel locks, tire totes, ďŹ rst season of storage free, mounting and balancing, and taxes.* A complete selection of Conti and Michelin tires are available at OpenRoad Audi. * Except Audi A3 - tire totes and wheel locks may be purchased separately for A3 packages. Packages for other models also available. See OpenRoad Audi Vancouver for details.

2375 Boundary Road, Vancouver (south of Lougheed Hwy, between Vancouver and Burnaby)

Tel: 604-291-2828 www.openroadaudi.com/parts

Vorsprung durch Technik

TRI M LINE S

A Fountain of Youth 1 0 r e l a x i n g body po s i t i o n s by V r e n i G u r d

hether we are sixteen or sixty years old, it is important to maintain function as we age. The following body positions most kids can relax in easily, but as adults we may stop being able to do them if we allow our muscles to shorten. That lack of flexibility impairs our ability to move properly, making us more prone to injury. So if “relaxing” is not the word you would use to describe these positions, working towards being able to do them easily again may just change your life and become your fountain of youth. Here are my initial ideas on positions I think we should be able to do throughout our life. Do these in bare feet for best results, and keep any stretch mild.

S q u a t t o t h e F loo r

We should be able to easily spend time in a deep squat keeping our heels down without falling backwards, body leaning between the legs as if we were pooping in the woods. If you cannot do this, try holding onto a sturdy post and lower yourself down leaning back just enough to keep your heels on the floor. You can always sit on a low step-stool for extra support and to make the position more relaxing. Keep your knees in line with your toes, ease into a stretch and wait for it to dissipate. In addition to pushing through your feet you can use your arms to help pull you up when you are done. Please note: NEVER do a squat to the floor with added weight. Avoid if you have a disk problem in your back.

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T r i pod Spl i t S q u a t

From the squat position above, drop one knee to the floor and sit on the heel of that foot. This position is comfortable and stable as you have created a triangle on the ground with the points being one knee, the toes of the same leg and the other foot. Make sure you switch sides to work on both legs. This is the ideal position for lifting heavy objects off the floor as one can straddle the object being lifted thereby keeping it close to our body. The spine has a neutral curve, and it forces the use of the legs rather than the back to get up. But it requires good toe flexibility, which is usually the limiting factor in this position. If this is too painful, work on your toe flexibility by going onto all fours, tucking your toes under and leaning back until you can sit on your heels. Toe spreaders can also be very helpful.

Kneeling

Come down onto all fours, tops of the feet down, but turn your hands around so the fingers are pointing back at your knees, palms down. Gently lean back to get a mild stretch in the forearms. When this range of motion is lost we lose the ability to weight-bear through our hands. When you have had enough of that, take the hands off the floor and sit down fully on your ankles and heels to stretch out the tops of the feet and front of the lower legs. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sit all the way back, put your hands on the floor and lean back as much as you need to get a stretch. Once you can sit comfortably like this on the floor, you will be able to interact much more easily with babies and toddlers. Also, being able to get up and down from the floor easily will keep your legs stronger than they otherwise would be.

Cross-legged sit w i t h fo r w a r d b e n d

S e a t e d fo r w a r d fold

Sit down on the floor and bring one heel into your perineum, and the other heel just in front of that foot. Your knees should be wide and your legs should feel relaxed. If not, try sitting on a phone book or pillow so that your knees are lower than your pelvis. Now lean forward and if possible, rest your elbows and forearms on the floor in front of you, keeping your sit bones down. If not possible, rest your hands on the floor. Avoid the temptation to look up, which would shorten the back of the neck. Most likely you will feel a stretch in the hip of the forward leg, and possibly the inner thighs and low back. Switch the feet to keep the other hip limber too. Avoid bending forward if you have a disk problem.

Sit tall on your sit bones on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you. If possible, gently fold forward keeping the knees soft and collar bones wide, until you feel a mild stretch in the back of your legs. Some people are able to relax with their chest on their thighs, while many of us may not be able to fold forward at all. If you are sitting behind your sit bones, sit on a phone book or pillow to raise you enough to make it possible for you to relax on your sit bones. Sitting on a block with your back against a wall to provide some support may be a very good starting point, as one can easily relax and spend time in that position. If you have a disk problem, you need hamstring stretching, but this is not the best choice for you. See a physio, CHEK Practitioner or personal trainer who can teach you a hamstring stretch that keeps your spine in neutral.

OpenRoad Driver â&#x20AC;˘ S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

Lie on the floor on your back and lean the soles of your feet into each other, heels close to the perineum, possibly creating a stretch in your inner thighs. If the stretch is too great for the inner thighs, play with the distance your heels are from your perineum, or use pillows for support under your knees. If your head is tilted back to reach the floor, use a pillow so you can keep the plane of your face horizontal. Hopefully you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need the pillow eventually. Rest your arms out to the side like the letter T, raising them up as high as you can while keeping them on the floor. Perhaps you will be forming the letter Y with your arms and trunk. The goal is to eventually have your upper arms up against your ears like the letter I, yet relaxed on the floor and feeling no stretch in your chest or armpits.

Supine torso twist

Lie on your back with your arms out to the side, knees bent, feet on the floor. Push through the feet to lift the pelvis up, and place it on the floor slightly to the left. Drop the knees to the right towards the floor, keeping the shoulderblades down, possibly feeling a stretch in the left side and buttock. Ideally you should be able to relax with the legs on the floor in this deep twist. If you cannot, put pillows under your legs to support them so that you can relax, but still feel a stretch. Do the other side as well.

Supine C stretch

S u p i n e b u t t e r fly with T-Y-I relax

Ankle across knee torso twist

Lie on your back with your arms out to the side, right knee bent, foot on the floor, left ankle resting on the right thigh so the left knee is pointing out to the side. Slowly drop the right knee down to the right side so that the left foot ends up on the floor and you can hang onto it with your right hand. The left knee should just hang away from the body. You may feel a stretch in the front or side of the left hip. Use pillows for support if needed. Do the other side.

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Lie on your back with your legs stretched out, and your hands clasped overhead. Move your legs and arms to the same side so you are taking the shape of a banana, but do not allow your pelvis to rotate. Cross the foot of the leg that is on the outside side of the curve over the foot of the inside leg. Relax and feel a gentle stretch through the lateral line of the body. If you feel any discomfort in your pelvis, try holding in your pelvic floor as if you were stopping the flow of urine and draw in the tissue just above the pubis. Notice any differences side to side.

Sp h i n x w i t h lo w e r l e g s u p

Lie on your belly and come up onto your elbows, forearms and hands facing forward, elbows at 90 degrees, while keeping your pelvis on the floor. Keep the back of the neck long, chin drawing into the front of the neck slightly. Try to arch your upper back by keeping the collar bones wide, lifting your sternum up and through your arms and feeling a stretch in the belly. If this is comfortable for your low back, try bending your knees so the flats of your feet are facing the ceiling. This position should be quite restful, but if your low back is bothering you, only come up as high as is comfortable, and try supporting your pelvis by drawing in the tissue just above the pubis. For some, lying on the floor with the forehead on the hands may be all that can be initially tolerated. Find the position you can relax in and progress from there.

Vreni Gurd was the top graduating student in PHE from the University of Toronto in 1992, and is continually furthering her education in exercise, nutrition and health. As a C.H.E.K. 3 practitioner and holistic lifestyle consultant, Vreni’s current Vancouver practice involves helping clients feel better through posture correction, corrective exercise, metabolic typing, and nutrition and lifestyle counseling. vreni@wellness-works.ca www.wellnesstips.ca

A road well-travelled We are pleased to congratulate OpenRoad Auto Group for its continued commitment to innovation and superior client service in automotive retail. We’re proud to be a part of your team and look forward to many more successful years together.

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mccarthy.ca

A DIFFERENT SCION EXPERIENCE AT OPENROAD.

2011

starts at $22,365* *price includes Freight & PDI, plus levies and applicable taxes.

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what moves you

C a r P r of i l e s by G e r r y F r e c h e t t e

A uto Features he introduction of a new-generation Civic is a momentous occasion, both for Honda and for the many devoted fans of the model who have made the compact the top-selling car in Canada the last thirteen years. The 2012 Civic builds on the strengths of the eight previous generations of it, and adds the technology and features expected of a small car in this very competitive market environment.

We grab the opportunity to drive a Civic sedan out to the Fraser Valley one mostly sunny day, on the north side of the river via one of the oldest roads in B.C., Dewdney Trunk Road, or DTR. This route runs from the west side of Maple Ridge to the east end of Mission. It has a bit of everything, from stopand-go traffic to long straight stretches and both slow and fast curves, so it makes for a great dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive in a car like the Civic. Our Civic in Polished Metal Metallic is the middle-of-therange EX model, with a level of equipment that many people will find just right. To the power windows, power mirrors and tilt-and-telescopic steering column standard on even the

Honda Civic Photos by Gerry Frechette

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S P EC I F I CAT IO N S DX

EX-L

ENGINE 1.8-litre, 16-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder 2.4-litre, 16-valve, DOHC, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder Horsepower @ rpm

140 @ 6,500 140 @ 6,500 140 @ 6,500 140 @ 6,500 201 @ 7,000

Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm)

128 @ 4,300 128 @ 4,300 128 @ 4,300 128 @ 4,300 170 @ 4,400

Recommended fuel

Regular

Available

7.2/5.0/6.2

7.2/5.4/6.4

Regular

Premium

DRIVETRAIN 5-speed automatic transmission (AT) with Grade Logic Controland lockup torque converter 5-speed manual transmission (MT) Close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission (MT) Front-wheel drive FUEL ECONOMY Automatic transmission (City/Hwy/Combined) Manual transmission (City/Hwy/Combined)

7.2/5.4/6.4

7.2/5.0/6.2

Curb weight – MT/AT (kg)

353

344

1,190/NA 1,202/1,229 1,227/1,255 NA/1,267

Height

1,435mm (56.5in)

Length

4,504mm (177.3in)

Wheelbase

2,670mm (105.1in)

Width

344 1,323/NA

1,752mm (70in)

PRICING Base Price (MSRP)

$14,990

$17,490

$19,490

We get onto DTR and head east through the built-up area of Maple Ridge, north of Lougheed Highway. The urban traffic gives us our first impression of the Civic’s major mechanical features, as the brakes have a confident feeling of firmness as we use them between the stop lights. The automatic transmission, too, is smooth and quiet as it runs up and down the gears.

10.0/6.4/8.4

DIMENSION Cargo volume (L)

entry-level DX model, the EX adds air conditioning, power moonroof, Bluetooth wireless phone interface, 16-inch alloy wheels and four-wheel disc brakes, among many more features.

$24,390

$25,990

Under the Civic’s hood is the latest version of an engine that should be pretty familiar to owners of the past couple of generations of the car – a 1.8-litre four-cylinder with 140 horsepower, whose smoothness and refinement is not bettered by any other such engine in the compact class. Backing it up is your choice of five-speed transmissions, the manual that comes standard, or the optional automatic as on our test car. On we go, leaving the built-up area and heading out into the country. DTR is now arrow-straight for many kilometres, allowing us to realize just how quiet inside the Civic is. Aerodynamic and drivetrain sounds are well-managed, with only the hum of the tires to hear at 80 km/h. At this constant speed we are doubtlessly achieving the Civic’s best possible fuel consumption rating of 5.0L per 100 km, slightly better than the manual transmissionequipped model could have generated. It is a 12-percent improvement over the 2011 OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

car thanks to such advances as lower coefficient of drag and tires with lower rolling resistance. Soon, DTR begins climbing and turning and we are able to exercise the Civic’s excellent chassis. This is where its multi-link double-wishbone rear suspension comes to the fore; that, the linear steering and the P205/5516 tires give the sedan the handling of a sports car, and its owner another aspect to enjoy. The roads approaching and leaving the Slave Lake Dam area are among the most fun in the Fraser Valley; from hairpin turns right up to long sweepers, the Civic handles them all. It is here that we would like to have had manual control of the automatic transmission, for even more fun. The road calms down a bit heading down into Mission to meet up again with Lougheed Highway. This allows the car and driver to do the same as we get near our destination for the day, the Westminster Abbey located high on a hill overlooking the Valley. The long driveway to it is well-marked and right off DTR just past the built-up section of Mission, and the bucolic rolling meadows contrast with the tall bell tower of the Abbey. It makes for a nice sightseeing stop and photo opportunity. Having driven our Civic enthusiastically for a while, we come to realize just how comfortable it is to sit in. The driver’s seat has a manual height adjustment and, of course, reach and recline too, so most drivers who don’t have unusually long legs shouldn’t have a problem finding a comfortable position. The dashboard is an evolution of the two-tiered design in the last Civic, with the speedometer and driver information screen located right up near the base of the windshield for easier viewing. Completing the picture, the EX is upholstered in a nice two-tone trim combination that would not look out of place in a bigger or more expensive car. Next, it is over the

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bridge to Abbotsford and west on Harris Road to meet up with Highway 1, where naturally we are able to see just how well the Civic takes to highway speeds. It must be said that it is quite happy out there on the open road, with high stability and ample power for passing those ubiquitous large trucks. Once we hit Surrey, it is back to the reality of traffic and construction, and the Civic rides smoothly through some of the road joints and broken pavement that is a normal part of all that road work. And with that, our little excursion ends, a revealing look at the many facets and characteristics of the car Honda expects to continue to head up the sales charts. One aspect of the Civic we didn’t try out, thankfully, is its

safety equipment. All Civics include anti-lock brakes, side curtain air bags, and Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control. As before, the new Civic is available in both sedan and coupe models, from the basic DX up to the decidedly sporty Si model with 2.4L engine and 201 willing horsepower. Also coming soon is the latest version of the Civic Hybrid sedan, with new lithium-ion batteries for better electric performance. With all its new features and improved economy, you might think that the Civic must cost more than before. But it doesn’t; in fact, depending on the model, its price is lower by at least a thousand dollars. Now, that is real economy.

A different Civic experience at OpenRoad.

2012 Civic Sedan

starting at $16,385* includes Freight & PDI *plus levies and applicable taxes.

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A uto Features

Lexus LFA

exus is renowned for producing smooth and refined luxury cars for discerning drivers. That profile was altered slightly when the IS F was launched, being the first outright performance car to bear the Lexus name. Still, there was nothing to prepare enthusiasts for the latest model in the F line, the LFA. It is a ferocious, brazen, no-holds-barred ultimate performance car that is available only in limited numbers.

Production began in December 2010. Twenty per month will be made by hand for 25 months, for a total of 500 to be built for worldwide sale. You would be correct in assuming that you can’t walk into OpenRoad Lexus and buy one off the showroom floor. You might just see one there but it won’t be for sale, as reportedly, they are all spoken for already at a list price of some $375,000 USD. The basics are that the LFA is a two-seat, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe, but that simple description hardly does it justice. Its angular skin is carbon fibre, as is the entire body structure, with aluminum front and rear subframes holding the mechanical assemblies. Curb weight is only 1,480 kg. The LFA’s design is definitely one of “form follows function,” with aerodynamics the prime consideration. It is a brutal beauty. Under the hood is a 4.8-litre V10 engine generating 552 horsepower at 8,700 rpm, a lofty speed for such a big engine. The power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox. Top speed is 326 km/h. The LFA is intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon fibre mass-production, and related performance vehicle development. As such, future Lexus F models should benefit from the experience gained. Meanwhile, we can all dream a little.

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S P ECI F I C A T IONS

A uto Features

► Type: 2-door coupé ► Layout: Front-mid-engine, rear-mid-transaxle, rearwheel drive ► Engine: 4.8 L 1LR-GUE V10 ► Horsepower: 560 PS (412 kW; 552 hp) @ 8,700 rpm ► Torque (lb-ft): 480 N·m (354 ft·lbf) @ 6,800 rpm ► Transmission: 6-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox ► Tires: Forged 20-inch BBS wheels fitted with 265 mm (10.4 in) front and 305 mm (12.0 in) rear Bridgestone next-generation Pontenza tires (Standard) ► Curb weight: 1,480–1,580 kg (3,263–3,483 lb) ► Wheelbase: 2,605 mm (102.6 in) ► Length: 4,505 mm (177.4 in) ► Width: 1,895 mm (74.6 in) ► Height: 1,220 mm (48 in) ► Top speed: 326 km/h (203 mph) ► 0-60 mph (97 km/h): 3.6 sec. (official, w/o launch control) ► 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 3.7 sec. ► Fuel type: Premium

Inside the Dream The Lexus LFA Works is where this dream supercar is born. It is a testament to the pure pursuit of perfection, as one LFA is hand-assembled per day. Inside the Motomachi plant, LFA-manufacturing boss Shigeru Yamanaka leads a team of hand-picked experts to craft each LFA. They are the best of the best. Here’s a look inside the making of a dream. > Each LFA has 10,000 parts. > One of only a few in the world, a special Lexus loom weaves carbon thread to create ultra-light carbon-fibre components. > Raw carbon fibre is laser cut and advanced to lay-up – a technique that takes specialists six months to master. > Each carbon-fibre layer, up to thirteen in all, is hand-dried and shaped with white glove touch. >Each new layer is vacuum-sealed for bubble-free adhesion. > Other carbon-fibre components like the floor tunnel use larger resin-infused carbon sheeting spun in a 3D carbon-braiding machine. > The larger components are hardened using an autoclave to cure the resin at over 150 degrees Fahrenheit for eight hours. > Perfect holes are drilled in the LFA body shell using 32 different drill bits, some with bespoke tips and diamond coatings. > The surfaces of the body shell components are treated with water and soft abrasives to prepare them for bonding and glue. > Strength tests are conducted on each assembled carbon-fibre body using loads of 200 kilograms. > A 567-point body uniformity check is conducted using a custom coordinate-measuring machine. > Sanding is done by hand to prepare body panels for painting by robot and by hand. > Post-assembly inspection is conducted using a lighting arrangement that is custom-designed for the LFA, where a difference of even 1/100th of a millimeter in a panel gap will be adjusted to perfection. > Each LFA is test driven to measure seven key areas at speeds up to 125 mph: controllability, driving feel, sound, brake performance, power, noise and vibration, and the function of parts. Source: Inside the LFA Works, Lexus Magazine

OpenRoad Driver • W i n t er 2 0 1 1

A uto Features n today’s economic climate, with the high price of gasoline, it should come as no surprise that Lexus customers might want their own version of a hybrid economy sedan. Enter the CT 200h, the premium compact that is giving a whole new look to the luxury segment, to appeal to a younger group of urban and environmentally minded drivers.

Lexus CT 200h

The CT 200h is the fifth hybrid in the Lexus range. Its drivetrain, proven for many years in the Toyota Prius, allows the car to move entirely under electric power in many situations, generating fuel consumption figures as low as 4.5L per 100 km in the city. This makes the CT the most frugal car in the luxury class. However, this is the only area where the CT 200h scrimps. Its appointments and its style are fully in keeping with the Lexus brand. Its interior focuses on the driver, and is based on clearly divided display and operational zones. Standard equipment includes eight-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, AM/FM/CD audio system with USB input, XM Satellite radio tuner and Bluetooth connectivity, and a full suite of safety equipment including Vehicle Stability Control, anti-lock brakes, and

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Spe cs 2 0 1 1 CT 2 0 0 h Supplemental Restraint System that includes side curtains and front knee airbags. The CT 200h’s Selectable Driving Modes include a Sport mode that sharpens steering and throttle feel, which, combined with the car’s custom-tailored fully independent suspension system, gives the enthusiast an entertaining drive. The Eco mode adjusts air conditioning settings for maximum efficiency, while the EV mode will allow extended electric-only operation. Of course, a Normal mode is the default setting that delivers a good balance of economy and performance. The CT 200h is the luxury compact for those who want efficiency and ecofriendly performance, with the style and quality of a Lexus. All that, and it has the lowest price of any Lexus model, too.

► BASE PRICE (msrp): $30,950 ► Type: 4-door, 5-passenger compact hatchback ► Layout: Front engine/front-wheel drive ► Engine: 1.8-litre I4, DOHC, 16 valves ► Horsepower: 134 (total system) ► Torque (lb-ft): TBA ► Transmission: CVT ► Tires: P205/55R16 all-season ► Curb weight: 1,420 kg (3,130 lbs) ► Wheelbase: 2,600 mm (102.4 in) ► Length: 4,320 mm (170.1 in) ► Width: 1,765 mm (69.4 in) ► Height: 1,430 mm (56.3 in) ► Ground clearance: 145 mm (5.7 in) ► Cargo capacity: 914 L (32.2 cu.ft.)(maximum) ► Fuel consumption: City: 4.5 L/100 km (63 mpg Imp) / Hwy: 4.8 L/100 km (59 mpg Imp) ► Fuel type: Regular ► Warranty: 4 years/80,000 km ► Powertrain warranty: 6 years/110,000 km ► Side airbags: Standard ► Curtain airbags: Standard ► Anti-lock brakes: Standard ► Traction control: Standard ► Stability control: Standard ► Assembly location: Kokura, Japan

Hyundai Equus

yundai has been making strong moves into most of the segments of the automotive market, and that includes the prestige sedan arena. The Equus sedan is designed to compete with the very best, and to redefine the perception of Hyundai in the market.

The Equus is available in two models, Signature and Ultimate, and the primary differences are found in the rear seat appointments. The Ultimate features two rear seats (versus the Signature’s three-wide bench seat) that are heated, cooled and reclinable, with the right-side one adding Shiatsu massage and an extendable footrest. An eight-inch rear monitor and cooled storage box complete the “limousine” environment. The space available here is way too little to fully describe the Equus, but the highlights include 385-horsepower V8, air suspension with continuously variable damping, real wood and premium leather trim, Lexicon surroundsound audio with 17 speakers, Vehicle Stability Management, Lane Departure Warning, nine air bags....along with supreme comfort and a level of hushed quiet inside that will make you wonder if the car is even moving.

Spe cs 2 0 1 2 E Q UUS ► BASE PRICE (msrp): $62,999 (sIGNATURE) / $69,999 (ULTIMATE) ► Type: 4-door, 4/5-passenger full-size sedan ► Layout: Front engine/rear-wheel drive ► Engine: 4.6-litre V8, DOHC, 32 valves ► Horsepower: 378 @ 6,500 rpm (w/regular fuel) 385 @ 6,500 rpm (w/premium fuel) ► Torque (lb-ft): 324 @ 3,500 rpm (w/regular fuel) 333 @ 3,500 rpm (w/premium fuel) ► Transmission: 6-speed automatic ► Tires: P245/45R19 all-season (front) P275/40R19 allseason (rear) ► Curb weight: 2,066 kg (4,555 lbs) (5-passenger) / 2,082 kg (4,592 lbs) (4-passenger) ► Wheelbase: 3,045 mm (119.9 in) ► Length: 5,158 mm (203.1 in) ► Width: 1,889 mm (74.4 in) (w/out mirrors) ► Height: 1,490 mm (58.7 in) ► Cargo capacity: 473 litres (16.7 cu.ft.) ► Fuel consumption: City: 14.7 L/100 km (19 mpg Imp) Hwy: 9.8 L/100 km (29 mpg Imp) ► Fuel type: Premium recommended ► Warranty: 5 yrs/100,000 km ► Powertrain warranty: 5 yrs/100,000 km ► Side airbags: Standard ► Curtain airbags: Standard ► Anti-lock brakes: Standard ► Traction control: Standard ► Stability control: Standard ► Assembly location: Ulsan, South Korea

The car itself is certainly impressive, but the level of service provided to prospective buyers and actual owners is not exceeded in the business. Those interested in test driving an Equus need only contact Equus Customer Relations, and an OpenRoad Hyundai representative will bring a car to your home or office for your evaluation. Similarly, when it is time for service, your Equus will be picked up and dropped back to you. To complete the Equus experience, the owner’s manual and information package is completely electronic and interactive. That’s right; an iPad loaded with all the details is included with the car. With this level of service and such an outstanding automobile, it is almost inappropriate to mention that it just happens to be the best value, too, in the prestige sedan market.

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A uto Features

Audi A7

here does one begin to describe the Audi A7 Sportback? There is so much to this car. How about technology meets efficiency meets functionality, with a dash of emotion?

The technology aspect alone could fill a few pages of this magazine. Audi Drive Select lets the driver fine tune the steering effort, throttle response and transmission shift points. Night Vision Assistant scans the road ahead. If there is a stationary object on the road like a boulder, it is highlighted in green. If there is a person on the road and/or walking on the shoulder, that person is highlighted in red. Park Assist parallel parks the A7 with no steering input from you. The Head-up Display projects key information, including economy and speed data and navigation routing, onto the windscreen. An adaptive headlight system with LED headlights links with the navigation system to automatically switch on a cornering light before entering an intersection. And there is much more. Efficiency begins under the hood, with a 3.0-litre, 300-horsepower supercharged V6, which drives through the famous Audi quattro all-wheel drive system. That hood, along with most of the other body panels, is aluminum, contributing to the A7’s low weight and nimble handling. An auto-stop feature turns the engine off when the vehicle stops, Spe cs 2 0 1 2 a 7 and instantly restarts it when the driver’s foot releases from the brake ► BASE PRICE (MSRP): $68,600 (3.0 TFSI quattro pedal, contributing to excellent fuel Premium) / $74,300 (3.0 TFSI quattro Premium Plus) economy. ► Type : V6, spark-ignition direct injection Functionality and convenience are high, thanks to the large hatch accessing the rear cargo area, which, extended with the seats folded flat, is very capacious. With the many available options, the A7 can be tailored to anyone’s taste. They include comfort seats with heating, cooling and massaging functions, acoustic glazing, leather trim for the centre console, custom-layered oak wood trim, 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio with 1,300 watts of power, TV reception and various connectivity upgrades for the MMI system. For emotion, just look at the A7. Long, low, sleek...a four-door coupe, indeed – and Audi’s premier grand touring car. Gerry Frechette is a full-time automotive journalist based in Vancouver. His parents say that he stood in his playpen and named cars going down the street, and some 20 years ago, he took this life-long love of cars and applied it to a career writing about them. At that time, he joined the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada, where he remains a member today.

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► Layout: Front-wheel drive with multitronic; quattro all-wheel drive combined with sevenspeed S tronic ► Engine: 2.8L/204-hp 207 lb-ft/ DOHC 24-valve V-6, 3.0L/300-hp 325 lb-ft/ DOHC supercharged 24-valve V-6, 3.0L/204-hp 295-332 lb-ft/ DOHC turbo-diesel 24-valve V-6, 3.0L/245-hp 369 lb-ft/ DOHC turbo-diesel 24-valve V-6 ► Horsepower: ranging from 150 kW (204 hp) to 220 kW (300 hp) ► Torque (lb-ft): 150 kW (204 hp) and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) at 5,250 rpm ► Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual ► Tires: 255/40 R19 ► Curb weight: 1,882 kg (4,150 lb) ► Wheelbase: 2,913 mm (114.7 in) ► Length: 4,968 mm (195.6 in) ► Width: 1,910 mm (75.2 in) ► Height: 1,419 mm (55.9 in) ► Ground clearance: TBA ► Fuel consumption: TBA ► Fuel type: PREMIUM

A diďŹ&#x20AC;erent A7 experience at OpenRoad.

2012 Audi A7

starting at $70,595* * includes Freight & PDI, plus levies and applicable taxes.

Experience the OpenRoad Difference. Why just buy an Audi, when you can own an OpenRoad Audi?

2375 Boundary Road, Vancouver (south of Lougheed Hwy, between Vancouver and Burnaby)

Experience the OpenRoad DifferenceTM

Tel: 604-293-AUDI (2834) Dealer 30579 www.openroadaudi.com www.openroadautogroup.com

Vorsprung durch Technik

M A KE A ND MODEL

Anna Kosturova’s h e a v e n ly s e a r c h by W i ll F o n g Photos courtesy of Anna Kosturova

“ I j u st love creati n g bea u tif u l thi n gs a n d that ’ s all I wa n t to do . M ake s u re it ’ s bea u tif u l , ” proclaims swim and resort wear designer Anna Kosturova. If fashion really is about life, then Kosturova and her garments are about the search for beauty both inside and out. Over the years the journey to find her true self has led to a home on the west coast and the top of the swimwear fashion world. Today, through freedom and personal insight, Kosturova is creating her own definition of beauty with sexy lines of swimwear and resort wear. The bestselling Beach Goddess bikini is a hallmark of her quest to instil confidence and beauty all around her. She wants all women to discover their own inner goddesses... all through the smallest amounts of material, ironically. But it didn’t happen overnight. Anna Kosturova was born and raised in the former Czechoslovakia under Communist rule. She followed family

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expectations and society rules, earning a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, specializing in textile technology. “We all had engineering degrees in Eastern Europe back then,” she claims matter-of-factly. “We lived for our parents and people were forced to go to school as a country policy. It was good in some ways but, looking back, we lived in a fixed system. Even as a kid, I knew I needed to get out. It’s been a big journey,” she says. That journey led to Canada in 1992. “I looked at a map and found the furthest place from Czechoslovakia. And I have an affinity for water,” she adds, explaining how she chose Vancouver as her new home. “It was like finding freedom here.” Everything culminated when Kosturova blended her background in textile technology and interest in fashion with her love of the ocean. She may not have known it then, but it was inevitable that

her passions would lead her to swimwear fashion. She started her line of swimwear in 2004 and, in seven short years, has taken her sexy designs to the pinnacle of swim and resort wear. Her work has graced the pages of swimwear’s “Holy Grail,” appearing in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition six years in a row. She earned the cover in 2008 with supermodel Marisa Miller barely wearing Kosturova’s Beach Goddess bikini bottom. Turn to this year’s 2011 contents page and you’ll see Kate “the Great” Upton wearing Kosturova’s aqua Seashore Bikini and matching vest. It’s not just supermodels. A bevy of starlets and celebrities are now wearing Kosturova, too: Mariah Carey in the nowfamous Beach Goddess bikini, Hilary Swank in a silk wrap dress, Paris Hilton in a classic crochet string bikini and pin-

up mini. And, yes, that’s Jennifer Aniston sporting Kosturova’s crochet Marissa Tennis Dress on the poster of this year’s hit movie, Just Go With It, with Adam Sandler. Demand has exploded internationally. In the niche world of swimwear fashion, it’s hard to stand out when there is so little material to work with. But with Kosturova, less is more. She offers a unique resort look based on her signature crochet designs. “Crochet keeps it unique and you know immediately if it’s my stitch. Now crochet is blowing up as a big trend,” she says. Her crochet pieces are all hand-made in 100% cotton. Swimsuits have always been a cornerstone for Kosturova like the sizzling Lattice Maillot one-piece and the St. Tropez Hipsterkini. But now we’re seeing the addition of crochet cover-ups, dresses and pants. Cover-ups have expanded her line through cropped tops and tank tops. The Seashore Angel Top is particularly sexy with this year’s oversized stitch mesh, featuring tassels that go beyond the beach and an off-the-shoulder look. We’re seeing more use of adornments like seashells, beads and sequins. The crochet Yoga Pants and Drawstring Leggings are anything but ordinary, with nineteen colours to choose from and an intricate custom stitch. Look for more colours overall including a retro nod to the bold neon colours of the 1980s and gorgeous patterns ranging from marble and checkered gingham, to Navajo and the multi-coloured interlocking flowers of Milleflori. Anna Kosturova has found liberation and happiness by pursuing her passion. We talked to her recently and she made one thing very clear; she hopes you’ll discover your inner goddess, too.

A Starlet Bikini is paired with a unique Seashore Angel Top. The top is a 100% cotton crochet fishnet top with scattered sequins, dangling shells and fringe.

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Jennifer Aniston wore your Marissa Tennis dress on the poster for Just Go With It! Yes, it’s been just crazy but in a good way. The movie did well and the poster was everywhere. Jennifer plays an elegant hot girl in the story, so demand for the dress went crazy. It was hard to keep up with demand because it was very short notice and this is a hand-made piece, but we’re catching up now.

Your defining look has been crochet pieces, all hand-made. Why crochet and how did that come about? I always liked hand-made items, knits and crochet. Mind you, I suck at it! (laughing) It’s more of a fascination with how it feels on a body. When you sew with fabric and prints, you can only go so far and the fabrics are already done for you. With knits, you’re really creating and making it entirely yours. Crochet starts from 1D and it becomes 3D, creating your own stitch and “fabric” and eventually an entire piece. We also do tie-dye items and it’s all hand-created to be beautiful and attractive.

Any favourite colours that you’re using in your garments, or personally? I’m definitely not sticking to one thing. My favourites will change by the day or my mood. I love the neon colours. Fuchsia and blues are always good. But what I usually wear is grey, more out of laziness, because I’m always here at the business. My New Year’s resolution was to wear more dresses and more colours personally! (laughing)

Are you still traveling a lot? You were just coming back recently…

The sizzling neon yellow Lattice Maillot is a one-piece suit with a unique lattice design in 100% cotton crochet. This sexy and airy white summer ensemble features a lightweight Cotton Sarong, vintage Macramé Belt and 100% crochet Tights with a drawstring waist.

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The stunning Mykonos Dress is a long, lacy strapless dress in cotton crochet.

Formal or informal, this is a Silk One Shoulder Dress with dramatic draping on one side, in a tie-dyed Astral silk.

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I was born in Czechoslovakia and I hadn’t visited for ten years, so it was time. I had to go. I travel a lot for work but it was family and private time. It was anxiety because it was the first time really that I’d been separated from my thing and doing my business. But the brain never stops thinking, so thank God for Skype and e-mail!

You grew up in the former Czechoslovakia. What was it like?

Some people have a nurturing background. I kind of had that. I remember as a kid I was always doing “fashioney” stuff with ideas and my aunt would make things for me. But even as a kid I knew I had to get out. You know that feeling when you don’t belong? I always felt there’s something not right for me there. I was involved in the whole Velvet Revolution when I was a student in university. People thought we were fighting the Commies but actually, no, really I fought the mentality more than the Communists. After I got my degree, I basically took off. There was nothing there for me. I didn’t see things changing or a future there. I needed to explore more and see what’s out there. Somewhere, something...

How long have you been in Vancouver and why did you choose Canada? It was 1992. I literally looked at a map and tried to find the furthest place away from Czechoslovakia. I have an incredible affinity to water and I always wanted to be by the ocean. It led me to Vancouver and there really wasn’t any other option. I love it here. It’s exactly what I call home. Coming here the mentality is so different. It’s more spiritual, humane. When I got here someone said, “Do what you want,” and I was like, “What, really!?” The hard part

was finding out what I love. What do I like?

Well, they say, “Do what you love and the money will come.” Your company is now growing fast. It all relates to how well we’re doing. The company was built from scratch starting with just bathing suits, not even cover-ups or crochet. A big company would have started right away with leisure, resort and travel wear but we grow when we continue to do well. I want to do shoes and accessories but that depends on how organized we can make the process. Every year we add something new like the resort wear silk tie-dye pieces that are a natural complement to the crochet. It’s going toward that one-stop leisure or vacation look. One day I’d love to open a store that outfits you completely for a vacation. It would be somewhere south like Miami, Los Angeles or Mexico where it’s sunny all the time. I take small steps and I try to keep it where I can handle it myself. You can’t expect people to be your clones. I actually prefer when they’re not, based on my shortcomings! (laughing) We’re growing and it’s getting complex as it gets bigger. It’s a big business challenge. I fight for my design time because there’s so much going into

the business part, 80% to running the business. I’m really happy when I get my design time.

What’s in your own closet and which designers do you like? I really like Joe Fresh. It’s super and it’s an affordable Canadian label. When I travel I always wear my own stuff on vacation or at resorts, but when I’m at home or work, I’m not going be walking around in bikinis! (laughing) The silk dresses and crochet would be fine. It’s more being lazy. I have my six pairs of grey jeans that I rotate and shirts and rubber boots. I can’t be bothered. There’s so much going on, dressing up suddenly seems a waste of time. It’s about cutting down on stuff and allocating my energy somewhere else.

What do you do when not designing? I do my five or six days of sun in Mexico or the Caribbean. I take my watercolours and paint nature because it’s easy and relaxing. My attention span is really short and that’s exactly how my art is. It’s just something I got into to relax. I’m also definitely a magazine junkie. I buy every magazine and read it. I look at all the pictures and it’s also my inspiration with shapes. I always like to sit down with a

A Mirage Bikini is resplendent in a royal blue Aztec pattern.

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coffee and flip through Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Lucky, Scientific American. I like different points of view. A big part of this job is understanding people. Knowing their needs, it’s intriguing. I also keep up with my science training for some reason. Whatever comes up in research and technical advancements, I’m completely fascinated by biology and brain research.

Do you have a favourite food? Well, if I had a personal chef to cook for me that would help! (laughs) I don’t cook any more. Sushi, definitely, and fish is definitely my thing. I love sea urchin and if I don’t have to make it, I eat everything. When I travel I really miss the food in Vancouver. The prices and quality are the best in North America. Don’t order sushi in Miami!

Float across the pool deck in a flowing silk, tie-dyed Halter Wrap Dress. This cool fulllength sleeveless dress is perfect for hosting a summer party.

We talked about finding your true passion...

Bring the bling. A black Beach Goddess Rebel Stripe Top is adorned with rows of multi-colour sequins. To complete the swim suit, the string bikini top is paired with a 100% Lycra Side Tie Bottom.

I have interest in making myself a better human being. What are we here for and what are we doing? I’m glad I made my peace out of everything. I feel very fulfilled and I do remember what a struggle it was before when I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I don’t want this taken the wrong way, but I feel I made it for myself in terms of resolving things and finding that true passion. The business is all good but money is just a detail. The important thing is finding out what you’re truly passionate about. In the past there was a lot of questioning, but mentally I know what’s important. I wish there was some kind of manual! It’s been a true journey; I came here and I soaked it up like a sponge. I was just so impressed and it just grew from there.

What do you recommend to our readers to discover their own inner goddess? I was a waitress and I really liked that job. I worked three days and had four days off. In my free time I could do what I liked and almost be a kid again. Kids are really good at this. They reach out for something that makes them happy. They go for the fun and happy. Suddenly I had time to look at designs and formulate opinions and start to build from that. And then, “What about fashion?” I always liked creating things. It felt very natural. So, it has to be fun. Be like a kid. I’m a strong believer in easy and fun. I like simple. We may only have 80 years, so why be unhappy? Be fun and happy and make it easy on yourself. Learn how to discover, and in your free time, do what you like!

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Shop for Anna Kosturova swim and resort wear at: annakosturova.com

A different RX experience at OpenRoad.

2011 RX 350

Experience the OpenRoad Difference.

Experience the OpenRoad DifferenceTM

Premium Package 1 starting at $52,450* * includes Freight & PDI, plus levies and applicable taxes.

Why just buy a Lexus, when you can own an OpenRoad Lexus?

3150 St. Johns Street Port Moody Tel: 604-461-7623 Dealer# 30266 www. openroadlexus.ca

THE S TREE T

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Lonsdale Lullabies by L a u r e n K r a m e r

ith a marketplace and unique assortment of stores and restaurants, this charming neighbourhood in North Vancouver is a great place to explore and relax.

Photos courtesy of Vancouver’s North Shore

Climb aboard a ferry and as you start moving slowly across the water, you can’t help but feel like you’re getting away from it all – even if the ride itself is just twelve minutes long. That’s how long it takes to get from Vancouver’s Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay on the SeaBus. But with the scenic journey across Burrard Inlet comes the excitement of discovering someplace new and different. The Lonsdale neighbourhood, which encompasses the quay and a fantastic selection of boutiques, restaurants and galleries on and around Lonsdale Avenue, is a fun day trip – rain or shine. It promises great shopping, a diverse selection of dining options and a stunning view of Vancouver that will remind you why you live here – whether it’s sunny or even on the dreariest of days.

Key to the Quay If it’s been a few years since you last explored Lonsdale Quay, you’ll want to spend some time here. The Quay is North Van’s version of Granville Island, only everything is conveniently under one roof – a blessing when the weather is bad. Even better, the quay boasts a selection of retailers, dining options and entertainment that will appeal to parents and children. Lonsdale Quay is conveniently open seven days a week: Market 9 am to 7 pm Retail 10 am to 7 pm Restaurants open later

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pique your interest here. Explore the artwork at Artistic Bliss, or purchase something distinctly Canadian at Connections to Canada. There’s jewelry, teapots, a gallery frilled with crystal and Celtic art – a Mecca for window shopping, casual browsing and searching for a gift that’s just right.

B e s t P l a c e fo r Kids If you’re in Lonsdale Quay with young kids, head straight to the Kids Alley on the second floor of the building. That’s where the children’s entertainment options are situated, including a kid-size space filled with balls and a slide, where kids can release some energy. When they’re done, walk your Barbie or Spiderman enthusiast over to Sparky’z Kutz for Kidz, where a haircut in a Barbie or Spiderman car will be decidedly less traumatic for everyone. Gramma’s Treats and Sweets is just across the way, so if you want to reward good behaviour, there are plenty of temptations at hand. Need some cool threads for your cool kids? Tulips Children’s Wear is a few steps away, and the toy shop Play and Learn promises hands-on toys to keep your tots occupied while you search for the ultimate birthday present.

B e s t P l a c e fo r Mo m s Ladies can get comfortably lost in the quay, where the large selection of independent retailers means an exciting array of one-of-a-kind products. If you love your kitchen, you’ll want to spend time in Essential Kitchenware on the ground floor, a store packed to the hilt with myriad contraptions to make cooking and baking prettier, easier and more fun. Upstairs, the second level is home to five clothing boutiques selling elegant pashminas, handbags, unique apparel and fun summer hats to keep you shaded. And if your home needs a splash of new décor, there’s lots to

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Best Place to Break Bread The hardest part about dining out is finding the dish you’re in the mood for – which is what makes Lonsdale Quay’s International Food Court such a pleasure. This is an area defined by choice, which means everyone can finally eat something they really want. From crepes to pizza, curry to chicken and burgers to souvlaki, there’s no shortage of options. Grab a pita or some fish and chips and head outside for an impromptu picnic. With its grassy banks, cherry blossom trees and gorgeous view of Burrard Inlet, Waterfront Park is the perfect place for lunch and a game of frisbee. Look out for otters playing in the water, and don’t be shy to return to the food court for dessert, as this is the place for fresh beavertails.

Best Place to Plan Dinner

find yourself in a pickle, the choices just too overwhelmingly tempting. Check out Sweet Carrie’s Dessert Shop for decadent treats like the Chocolate Sinner Cake and the Hazelnut Decadence Log, or find your fix at Olde World Fudge. Either way, the hardest part will be saying no.

Loitering on L o n s d a l e Av e NUE Later, work off lunch by climbing Lonsdale Avenue and peeking inside some of its treasures. We browsed through yesterday’s memories at a few of the thrift stores, two of which sold new apparel mixed with gently worn. Located nearby, the Love Nest is an upscale intimacy shop with one of the best libraries of relationship self-help, erotic and sex books in the Lower Mainland. “Relationship counsellors send people to our store specifically for our library,” says owner Tony Ciales. His selection of adult toys could be a distraction, though. Boys will enjoy Second Wave, a surf, skate and snow shop selling boards and apparel, while the bikes at On Top Bike Shop across the road, will leave you itching to start peddling through North Van’s rainforests. The avenue has its own selection of cool eateries, whether you need a coffee refill, an organic grain bread, a chocolate truffle or a mango sushi roll with red beets and yam tempura. Before you leave, poke your head inside the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce on First Street, and whet your appetite by learning more about the city’s other points of interest. Most people know North Van only for Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge, its two biggest attractions. There are many more, from exhilarating hikes in Lynn Canyon Park, with its beautiful suspension bridge, to canoeing with local First Nations, to kayaking near Deep Cove.

If you’re looking for inspiration for the next meal, you’ll definitely find it at the quay. Check out Screaming Mimi’s and the Salmon Shop for fresh seafood, or Essy’s Gourmet European Deli for sliced meats. The Soup Meister has a tantalizing selection of ready-made soups, sauces and stocks, and COBS Bread has the perfect panini or baguette. Salad is a convenient, easy side dish at the Waterfront Salad Garden, where Know North Vancouver you can be as picky and choosy as you vancouversnorthshore.com (888) 999-6169 like. To sate the old lonsdalequay.com sweet tooth, you may lowerlonsdalebusinessassociation.com

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A SK THE E X P ERTS

Gas Quest

iven the high price of gas lately, here are the best tips to squeeze as much as you can per litre.

Top 5 t i p s t o s a v e f u e l by C a m e r o n M a

With the way that gas prices have been steadily increasing, this has been quite a popular question that we get at all our service desks! In this column, we’re going to share with you some tips on how to get the most out of your fuel, and share some interesting facts and data to show how you may be wasting fuel without even knowing it. The best part is most of these tips are free – my favourite kind. So, let’s get started:

Stay c alm while driving.

Aggressive driving and rapid acceleration from a stop are two bad habits that raise your fuel consumption, up to 33% on the highway and 5% around town. Driving smoothly and within the speed limits not only saves you money on gas, but also wear and tear on the vehicle which could lead to costlier repairs. Using your cruise control can also help, as this keeps your vehicle at a constant and steady speed.

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K e e p yo u r v e h i cl e a e r ody n a m i c .

Those automobile engineers went to school for many years, so they know a thing or two about aerodynamics! If you drive on the highway with your sunroof open, windows down or with a huge mattress/carrier box on top, this will increase your vehicle’s aerodynamic drag – leading to a 5% decrease in fuel efficiency. People also ask me if they use air conditioning at highway speeds, will it increase their fuel consumption? I tell them the benefit of the reduced drag offsets the slight fuel increase when the air conditioning compressor is in operation. Not only that, but you save your eardrums from the wind noise; although, if you have children and it’s the 90th time they’re asking, “Are we there yet?”, you might want to open those windows……

Maintain yo u r v e h i cl e .

Yes, I know this one is cliché, but it still holds true. Low tire pressure is a big one. A major tire manufacturer did a study on tire pressure and found that if your tires are 20% underinflated – approximately 5-7 psi – you are using 10% more fuel. Make sure you are up-to-date on your maintenance. Not only is a well-serviced engine running at peak efficiency, but other factors can contribute to fuel consumption. Have your brakes inspected. A sticking or seized brake caliper will not only decrease fuel efficiency, but would be dangerous should your brakes wear out prematurely or overheat and fail to stop you when you need it the most. A stuck-open thermostat will cause your vehicle’s on board computer to use a different fuel map than if it were at normal operating temperature. A clogged engine air filter will reduce the engine’s combustion efficiency. A faulty oxygen sensor may increase your fuel consumption by as much as 40%! Care for your vehicle, and it will take care of you.

U s e t h e co r r e c t w e i g h t of e n g i n e o i l . O r , g o t o a lo w e r v i s co s i t y i f yo u r m a n u f a c t u r e r a llo w s i t .

This is a new tip that has arisen the past few years, as we are seeing more and more manufacturers switching to lower viscosity oil in their engines. When I was twisting wrenches, 10W30 was the standard oil. We are now seeing factory fills of synthetic 0W20. This change is all to help with the vehicle’s rated fuel consumption. If there is less internal drag, this would in turn increase its operating efficiency. Check with your OpenRoad service department to see if your vehicle is able to use lower viscosity oil. I know of a few manufacturers who have supplied their service centres with cross reference charts on oil compatibility. If you can use thinner oil, it could save you 1-2% on fuel costs.

P l a n yo u r t r i p o r c a r pool .

If you can plan out your errands in the most efficient way, you will save on fuel costs. Try to organize your stops so you don’t backtrack. A vehicle uses less fuel if it’s constantly kept at operating temperature, rather than if it’s left to cool off and later restarted again. As for carpooling, share trips with somebody else to cut your fuel and vehicle wearand-tear costs in half, plus maybe sneak in a little nap time on the commute. If you want to be a little more “green” try biking or walking if your destination allows. Not only is it good for your health and the environment, but you can prolong that tank of fuel a little bit longer.

Measure Tires Monthly

Gas Price Links

One-third of Canada’s 21 million vehicles have at least one underinflated tire, and only 30% of drivers measure their tire pressures monthly. Why should you check your tire pressure monthly? Safety, the environment and dollars – it all adds up.

Check out the gas prices along your route before you head out, and you could save!

Did You Know?

van.bc.gastips.com bcgasprices.com

Canadian drivers will waste $722 million in unnecessary fuel bills in 2011 just because one or more of their tires are underinflated. This is enough fuel to power 275,000 vehicles for a full year and will release an additional 1.2 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Underinflation can reduce the life of your tires by 15,000 kilometres. This leads to more vehicle costs and more scrap tires for disposal. 59% of drivers make the serious mistake of relying on visual inspection to make decisions on tire pressure. In fact, a tire can be under or overinflated by 20% or more and still look normal. 26% of owners wrongly believe that the pressure stamped on the sidewall of their tires is the recommended tire inflation level. In fact, this is the maximum pressure a tire can contain under maximum load.

T h e Good N e w s Sol u t i o n Have an accurate tire pressure gauge on hand. Know your proper tire pressure from your vehicle owner’s manual. Measure your tire pressure monthly and you’ll be on your way to a healthier and safer drive.

Cameron Ma is the service director at OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody. A previous National Service Advisor Skills Champion for Lexus and Toyota Canada, and Red Seal-certified automotive service technician, he knows a thing or two about vehicle maintenance. When not taking care of guests’ needs, you can find Cameron tinkering with his old Toyota MR2 or shuttling his kids to multiple sports.

Source: Rubber Association of Canada, 2011

OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

P L ATE S

Behind The Apron

I n s e a r c h of a h i dd e n g e m Wo r d s a n d p h o t o s by M i j u n e P a k

he Apron and Executive Chef Hamid Salimian are nothing short of a culinary wonder. This is one of the finest chefs and restaurants that I have had the pleasure of trying in my life. It’s an undiscovered hidden gem in a world and league of its own. I was invited here on a Monday night and I tried over fifteen courses with a customized tasting menu. I actually enjoyed it so much that I personally made reservations three days after just to do it all over again. The only way I can repay them for giving me one of the best and most memorable dining experiences ever is to share the immense amount of love, belief and passion I have for it. The culinary genius that leads the team is none other than the humble and soft-spoken executive chef, Hamid Salimian. There’s something magical that happens when a chef is so dedicated and passionate about his craft. Being true to his roots, characteristics of his Persian heritage are found in his dishes and part of his unique style. He’s a Michelangelo of chefs with a vision that goes beyond anything I’ve ever experienced. It was food that told a story. Food that led me to cultures I love,

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Photo courtesy of The Apron

while bringing me to ones I never knew existed. Food that showed an appreciation for the past, yet exemplified an excitement for the future. It was food that was led by science, yet expressed a celebration of art. It not only stimulated my mind, but it changed my palate and captured my heart with every bite. It was an experience that left me emotionally touched and inspired. From the moment of the amuse bouche to the last bite I was left permanently enchanted. I’m not even saying that it’s the best food you may ever try, but it comes to the point of not even being about that. Instead I am invited on his journey of exploration for something new and different. A brilliant chef that can convince you to like things that you think you don’t. He made me appreciate and look at ingredients in unimaginable ways, whether it was through his intense use of molecular gastronomy, or creative flavour combinations. The approach he uses was representative of dishes prepared for world-renowned culinary competitions like Bocuse

d’Or. It is competition food. Chef Hamid’s style is almost a contradiction of all opposites. At times I felt that he knew exactly what he was doing, and at times I felt like he had no idea. He is precise in technique, yet free in thought. Traditional in concept, yet adventurous in execution. True to the dish, yet innovative in flavours. He’s a believer in science with a passion for art. He knows the palate, yet manages to challenge it. His style is almost the biggest and best contradiction, which means he delivers the best of both worlds in the perfect equation. Everything he represented illuminated with every dish I tried. I have been to The Apron on four occasions now and Chef Hamid never ceases to amaze me. His attention to detail, balance of flavours and achievement of every type of texture in each dish is something that shows the dedication of a legendary chef. I also just discovered his personal website www.chefhamid.com… it’s so being bookmarked!

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O n t h e t a bl e

Side Stripe Prawn 6/6

Dungeness crab croquette, squid mayo, soy vinaigrette $16 (tasting size shown)

A thing of beauty in flavour and presentation! It looked like Japanese art and the ingredients were also Asianinspired, so I loved the direction Chef took with this. It was so well thought out and precise in execution and every ingredient had its place adding a unique texture and flavour to the dish. At times the squid mayo could be a bit salty. But what I loved most was the different levels of saltiness he achieved without actually using that much salt. He had the salt coming through with the cod roe, sesame powder and then the squid ink, and each one brought a different texture to the plate. It was juicy bursts of salty salmon roe and house smoked caviar, and every ingredient had an intense and distinct flavour. The compressed cucumber was also concentrated and it helped to balance out the stronger flavours and act as a cleanser. I loved the Asian-inspired components and the most Asian-tasting thing was probably the sesame powder which was amazing! It tasted like the powdered form of a hot bowl of tossed sesame noodles. The flavour was intense and deliciously savoury, nutty and aromatic. I could have overdosed on that powder… Underneath the sesame powder were squiggly prawn cracker crisps which were a nice surprise for texture as well. It was almost like Asian chips seasoned with sesame powder. Addicting! The dungeness crab croquette was a crispy one-biter with a juicy burst of flaky crab meat and a hint of lime, or kalamansi (Filipino orange), that made it come alive.

Q u e e n C h a r lo t t e S a bl e f i s h 6 / 6

White navy bean cassoulet, apron chorizo, squid, red bell pepper emulsion $25 (tasting size shown)

This is one of the best West Coast versions of sablefish I’ve had to date and it almost seemed a bit Spanish. My only thing would be to ask them to ease up on the salt in the red bell pepper emulsion, but again, brilliant! Making fish skin appealing to the masses! I love fish skin and don’t require it to even be crispy to eat it, although it is much better when crispy. In this case he deconstructs the sablefish and deep fries the fish skin into a puffy chip which tastes like a juicy prawn cracker. It was nicely seasoned and naturally oily since it was skin. I think the top crust of the sablefish was executed with a blast freezer, and it made it seem like the top was lightly battered and deep fried. It’s served hot, but the texture left you with a “how did they do that?” The sablefish tasted smoky, flaky and juicy with a puffy and airy light fish-and-chip-like crust that imitated the fish skin. The crust almost popped in my mouth and out flowed the buttery juices once I hit the filet. It’s like getting double the skin and it’s incredibly satisfying. It was matched with a smoky sweet buttery red pepper foam that was still rather thin and it also had a tang from perhaps some tomato. It was a bit too salty, but the scallion puree helped tone it down a bit. The scallion puree tasted like there was some fresh parsley, mint, and green peas pureed into it because it was sweet and fresh and balanced out the smokiness of the red pepper emulsion. The navy bean cassoulet had a very Mediterranean take and it tasted Italian-meets-Spanish rather than French. It had a smoky house-made chorizo that tasted like bacon or cured pork belly, tender squid, firm beans, salty bites of olives, and it complemented the sauce and sablefish perfectly.

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The Final Bite Shat t e r e d B a k l a v a & Glo w Have n C awston Peaches 6/6

Saffron pistachio ice cream $10

This was the Middle Eastern and Indian-inspired dessert and it was so unique and well thought out. It was a deconstructed baklava with crispy phyllo sheets balanced on top of a block of pistachio and saffron kulfi, so it actually wasn’t ice cream. It suited the theme of the dessert even better. Kulfi is an Indian-style milk-based ice cream and it’s thicker and denser and almost like a frozen paste.

A must try. I highly recommend a 5- ($50), 7- ($70), or 9-course ($90) tasting menu. Only a tasting menu can show the brilliance. But if ordering à la carte I would recommend North Arm Farm Sunchoke Soup, Side Stripe Prawn, Puffed Quebec Foie Gras & Queen Charlotte Sablefish. For dessert, the Shattered Baklava & Glow Haven Cawston Peaches, 24-Hour Baked Apple Tart or The Apron Chocolate Bar.

T h e Ap r o n

3099 Corvette Way (inside The Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport) Richmond, BC (Richmond Central) Phone: (604) 303-6565 or toll free: 1-800-937-8461 Price Range: $30-50, $50+ 1: Poor 2: OK 3: Good 4: Very good 5: Excellent 6: Très Excellent!! Food: 6 Service: n/a Ambiance: 4 Overall: 6 Complimentary parking

The liquid gels were filled with rose water syrup so that it wouldn’t make the sheets soggy. So smart! It was very light, not too sweet at all and the perfect balance of pistachio, rose water, saffron and a hint of cinnamon. Those flavours are quite strong and a little goes a long way and they were incredibly well played and balanced in this dessert. It was crispy and crunchy, yet not too dry, since it had the floral bursts of rose water syrup and the aromatic and refreshing Kulfi ice cream that just made it even better. There was also a vanilla crème anglaise on the plate that added a nice creaminess. The green flakes on top were like shaved flakes of powdered pistachio with cinnamon and it added to the lightness of the whole dessert. Amazing!

Three Sixty Photography

Mijune Pak is a passionate food blogger and the creator of the award-winning food blog Follow Me Foodie www.followmefoodie. com. One of Vancouver’s top food blogs, it is a restaurant guide detailing culinary adventures locally and abroad. With an entertaining and honest approach, and a series of “Foodie in the City” webisodes, it has become a trusted online media source for food enthusiasts.

Follow Mijune on Twitter @ followmefoodie and YouTube http:// www.youtube.com/followmefoodie

OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

S taff A ssociate Spotlight

Stirring it up

with Jugdeep Thandi W O R D S by M e l i s s a M a k | P h o t o s by P a u l T h a n d i esides being a guru of finance and lease matters, Jugdeep Thandi of OpenRoad’s finance department is also spicing things up in the kitchen with homemade masalas and family recipes. When Jug’s not punching out numbers on her calculator, you might find her working her magic in the kitchen, or planning traditional Indian weddings or baby showers. A recognized leader in the office, Jug is also part of OpenRoad’s Leadership Development Program and a returning member of the OpenRoad Draggin’ Drive dragon boat team. We were in hot pursuit of cooking tips, authentic Indian recipes, and the juicy scoop on OpenRoad’s finance department when we sat down recently for a quick one-on-one with the multi-talented Jugdeep Thandi.

Photo by Mindy Dosanjh

You have a passion for food. Is your cooking from the north of India? The majority of my cooking comes from the state of Punjab in the northwest of India. This passion comes from my dad, who loved to cook and entertain. He cooked Indian meals for new immigrants in the 1960s with his father, as well as for a Sikh temple on Vancouver Island.

You’ve planned Indian weddings, hosted many wedding and baby showers. Any interesting stories you can share with us? It was a hot day in July and we baked 500 baby feet cookies for my sister-in-law’s baby shower, and decorated them with

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pink icing as party favours for the 80 guests we had attending.

Wow. That’s a lot of cookies… and a lot of feet! What was on the menu for one of your events?

It’s in the sauce, and the importance of not overcooking the prawns. And, of course, fresh coriander.

Okay, let’s go from calorie intake to calorie burn. You’re also on the company’s dragon boat team...

Indian Lasagna…with secret masala!

Everyone loves the well-known favourites like butter chicken, samosas and naan. But what lesser known dish of yours would you nominate as a possible new favourite? Curried prawns...

And what’s the key to this successful dish?

Yes, and my husband Paul is, too. It’s a great way for us to start our Sunday mornings with a good practise on False Creek with the OpenRoad Draggin’ Drive Team.

How long have you been with OpenRoad and what do you do in OpenRoad’s finance department?

Any plans to take cooking to the next level, with a professional career in catering? Maybe not a professional career. It would be fun just to do a small dinner party for 6-8 people and cook a traditional Indian meal. I think it’s nice having the guests participate in the cooking, so they could learn to make the appetizers, entrée and dessert.

Congratulations on being selected for OpenRoad’s Leadership Development Program. Tell us about the program’s goals and what you’ve been doing. Thank you so much! I’m very honoured to be named. It’s a two-year program. The goal is to give selected OpenRoad associates who have demonstrated strong leadership skills, strong work performance and potential, the opportunity to grow within our organization to become future leaders of OpenRoad Auto Group. I’ve been attending career and self-development classes provided by Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), like cross-functional onthe-job learning and extensive leadership training.

Finally, every time I walk into the accounting and finance department there seems to be no shortage of food around. What’s going on in there? It’s to lure people from all different departments to come and visit us! (laughing)

recipes

I started with OpenRoad in November 2005. I’m part of a twoperson team that oversees OpenRoad’s internal lease and finance division. A regular day for me would be dealing with finance and lease customers, administering files, approving deals for external finance and lease customers, as well as doing financial statements for two OpenRoad stores.

R ai ta ► 1 cup fat free sour cream ► 1 cup Nanak plain yogurt ► 1 teaspoon salt ► 1 teaspoon garam masala ► 1/2 teaspoon black pepper ► 1 cup buttermilk ► 2/3 cup finely chopped English cucumber ► cumin and cilantro as garnish Whisk sour cream, yogurt, salt, garam masala and black pepper in bowl until smooth and creamy. Add buttermilk and whisk until blended. Whisk in cucumber. Garnish with cumin and cilantro. Serve as a side dish with dinner.

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Red Lentil Dhaal ► 1 cup red lentils picked over, rinsed and drained ► 3 cups water ► 1 large tomato chopped ► 1/4 cup canola oil ► 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds ► 1 medium onion finely chopped ► 5 large garlic cloves thinly sliced ► 1 teaspoon garam masala ► 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric ► 2 green chili peppers finely chopped ► 1 tablespoon butter ► 3/4 teaspoon salt ► 1/4 cup minced cilantro (optional) Place lentils, tomato and water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook until lentils are tender and have lost their shape, about 40 minutes (add small amounts of water at 30 minutes as needed). Remove tomato skins and whisk dhaal to emulsify it. Keep warm over low heat. Make the tadka Indian spice preparation. Heat oil in a medium skillet over high heat. When oil begins to smoke, add cumin seeds. After seeds have stopped sputtering, add garlic and onion and sauté over medium heat until most of the onion turns dark brown, about 5-10 minutes. Stir in garam masala, turmeric and chili peppers. Pour the tadka spice mixture into the lentils. Add butter, cilantro and salt to the dhaal and simmer for another 5 minutes. Serve over basmati rice.

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B a sm at i Ric e ► 1 tablespoon butter ► 1/4 teaspoon salt ► 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds ► 1/4 cup frozen mixed vegetables – corn, carrots, peas, beans ► 2 cups cold water ► 1 cup basmati rice (washed until water is clear)

Place butter, salt, cumin seeds and frozen mixed vegetables in non-stick pot and sauté on medium heat for 2 minutes. Add rice and stir for 1 minute. Stir in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes until water has evaporated. Turn off heat. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes.

Ho t a n d Sp i cy Chicken Curry ► 2 tablespoons corn oil ► 1/4 teaspoon onion seeds ► 2 medium onions chopped ► 1/2 teaspoon garlic finely chopped ► 1/2 teaspoon ginger finely chopped ► 1 teaspoon garam masala ► 1 teaspoon chili powder ► 1 teaspoon salt ► 1 3/4 cup canned chopped tomatoes ► 2 tablespoons lemon juice ► 2 1/2 cups cubed boneless chicken breasts ► 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro ► 2 green chili peppers finely chopped (omit or vary to spice tolerance) ► 1/2 red bell pepper cut to chunks ► 1/2 green bell pepper cut to chunks In a medium sauce pan, heat oil and fry onion seeds until dark. Add chopped onions, garlic and ginger, and sauté 5 minutes until onions turn golden brown. Set heat to very low. In a separate bowl mix garam masala, chili powder, salt, tomatoes and lemon juice. Pour mixture into the saucepan and increase heat to medium. Stir fry 4 minutes. Add chicken pieces and stir fry 6-8 minutes. Add cilantro, green chili peppers, red and green peppers and lower the heat. Cover the saucepan and simmer 12 minutes until chicken is cooked. Serve over basmati rice.

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SUMMER 2011

COM MU NI T Y

Photo by Alistair Eagle Additional photos courtesy of Laura Brown

Rolling for Gold T e a m p u r s u i t cycl i s t L a u r a B r o w n by B e n H u d s o n

t takes remarkable drive and determination to secure a place on Canada’s Olympic team. Most people train their entire lives in a single discipline for the chance to don the maple leaf on the international stage. Canadian national team track cyclist, Laura Brown, had always dreamed of being an Olympian, but injury forced her to change gears (quite literally) at the tender age of 14 years old. And while her sport of choice shifted abruptly from gymnastics to cycling, her dogged tenacity and will to work hard, and win, never faltered. We caught up with Laura at home in Vancouver and asked her what it’s like to go for gold.

You were a competitive gymnast for eleven years and then you switched over to cycling. Tell me a little bit about the transition. I was fourteen years old and I got injured. Surprise, surprise. Gymnasts are pretty prone to injury. My coach, a massage therapist for the national cycling team, said I should try cycling.

Have you found parallels between cycling and gymnastics? As a gymnast you have to be very tough mentally. The ability to endure the physical hardship of cycling is largely a mental game. The mental skills I developed as a gymnast – the desire to push myself, work hard, put in the time, and seek perfection – helped me become the cyclist I am today.

Is learning to endure pain and suffering part of your training? OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

There are times when you train and you believe you are at your absolute limit. Yet somehow you break through. And then you go on to achieve more than you thought possible. You push through the pain and the experience teaches that you are capable of more.

At what point in your career did you realize that the Olympics were an achievable goal? When we won our first world cup in 2009. That was the moment it hit me. “Wow, this is real,” I thought to myself. The Olympics were less than three years away. It was then that we realized, yes, this is really happening. The Olympics are next!

Your discipline is pursuit cycling. Can you describe it a little bit? Track cycling has been around for over 100 years. It is ideally held on an indoor, 250-metre wood-banked track – a velodrome. The bikes don’t have brakes. They are fixed-gear and they are built for speed. There are two broad categories for track cycling: sprint and endurance. Team pursuit involves three riders and is a 3-kilometre race starting from a standstill. Our cruising speed is about 55 km/h and we compete against the clock. The teams with the top two times go for gold. In the finals the teams start on opposite sides of the track, but at the same time, so you’re basically chasing each other. Whichever team crosses the line first, wins.

You ride so fast and so close together. How do you communicate? We don’t actually communicate verbally unless it is an emergency. It is more about the planning and pre-race communication. We can read body language and you get to know your teammate really well.

So I understand you will be going to the next 2012 Olympics in London? Congratulations.

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(nervous laugh) Well, we have to qualify for the women’s team pursuit team and then the Canadian Cycling Association picks the riders. But there is a very good chance that I will be going.

So have you set personal goals going into the Olympics? I would love to win gold for Canada. That would be so special. A medal is definitely on my mind.

Have you had a chance to step back and appreciate what is the spectacle of the Olympics, especially after seeing it in Vancouver? It can be overwhelming to think about how many people are behind you and watching you. But it is also motivating and exciting. Thinking about the support we receive and the opportunity I have to represent Canada is very motivating.

It must take enormous dedication to reach the Olympics.

Amateur sport in Canada is a touchy career choice because there’s limited funding. Most people survive on passion, dedication and family support.

Do you have to work a traditional job to support yourself? I have in the past. But the opportunity to win a medal in the Olympics is too important to me. I’ve got the support I need to get by. I want to put all my energy into team pursuit.

If someone wanted to support you financially, how could they do that? Well, there are two ways. You can visit my website www.laurabrowncycling. com. On my blog page there is a link to make donations. Donations help me pay for food, coaching, equipment and so on. There’s also www.athletescan.com. AthletesCAN is a registered charity that helps to raise money in support of elitelevel, Canadian amateur athletes.

Thanks, Laura. It’s been great talking to you. We’ll see you in London in 2012!

It has been a goal for me for longer than I can remember. As a gymnast I wanted to be in the Olympics. As a cyclist I have (laughing) Thank you! GO CANADA GO! the chance to realize a lifelong goal. I would never have been able to get this far without the support of my family. They have been amazing. And of course, my coaches Richard Wooles and threeA day in the life of an Olympic cyclist time Olympian Tanya Dubnicoff. Gearing up for London 2012. Although the intensity of the

Being an Olympic athlete is obviously a mental and physical challenge. What about financially? Most Olympic-level athletes in Canada need to work a second job, which means you have less time to train.

training and overall routine is based on a long-term plan and a carefully considered strategy, this is a taste of Laura Brown’s typical day: At least ten hours of sleep every night A hearty breakfast of oatmeal loaded with almonds, raisins, bananas, peanut butter and more Morning training session that ranges from one to four hours A big lunch that starts with a recovery shake, a big bowl of pasta and salad Afternoon nap Afternoon recovery ride, training session, strength training or yoga depending on where she is in her training cycle Get ready to race!

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Live @ Lexus Grand Opening OpenRoad Lexus Richmond Photography by Alistair Eagle

wenty years after launching the first stand-alone Lexus dealership in the country, OpenRoad Lexus Richmond makes history again by opening the largest Lexus store in Canada. OpenRoad welcomed over 1,000 guests to its Live @ Lexus Grand Opening event, a spectacular tribute to the Japanese roots of Lexus. The opening featured a dazzling taiko and shakuhachi performance, sushi by celebrity chef Tojo, masterful ikebana floral art pieces, and an art display sponsored by Kasian Architecture Interior Design. OpenRoad presented a 2010 Lexus RX 350 SUV to the BCIT School of Transportation to mark the special occasion.

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Lexus Canada president Yoichi Tomihara, OpenRoad Auto Group president Christian Chia and OpenRoad Lexus Richmond general manager Mark Worbeck join in the sake barrel breaking ceremony.

The dynamic group Maru deliver a powerful taiko and shakuhachi performance.

Late in the evening, lucky guests hear the roar of the LFA’s V10 engine.

Sushi by celebrity chef Hidekazu Tojo from Tojo’s Restaurant

A stunning collaboration between ceramicist Hide Ebina and ikebana master Masa Takaya.

The okonomiyaki pancakes with bonito flakes are delicious.

OpenRoad Driver • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

HI GH BE A M S

Seafood is in abundance showcasing seared scallops topped with ginger and radish salad.

Audi A7 Martini Party OpenRoad Audi Vancouver

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Photography by Todd Duncan

he sleek new 2012 Audi A7 is one sexy beast of a hatchback. And that served as the perfect inspiration for a beautifully sensual evening. The surf was up for the 2012 Audi A7 Martini Party at OpenRoad Audi Vancouver. There was a myriad of custom martinis and delectable seafood delights. Sake-cured wild salmon with pickled daikon and crisp nori, anyone? But the star was undoubtedly the car. The A7 showed off plenty of power and great looks, while DJ Miss Marz energized the crowd until late into the evening.

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Guests admire the Audi A7â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3.0-litre, 300-horsepower supercharged V6 engine.

Fresh-shucked Kusshi oysters from Fanny Bay.

Sexy DJ Miss Marz brings her electronic funk to the house.

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HI GH BE A M S

Lexus CT 200h Launch OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody and Richmond Photography by Alistair Eagle

he new 2011 Lexus CT 200h is the most fuel-efficient Lexus you can buy. It’s compact and it’s luxury, so the environment was all green when OpenRoad launched the new luxury hybrid at both its Port Moody and Richmond locations. The theme was sustainability, including the special food and beverage by green and organic caterer, OnePlanet Catering. 78 |

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The smooth jazz stylings of the Swing Duo. Crystal Kwon from VanCity Buzz, Josh Chow of OpenRoad Auto Group and Mijune Pak from Follow Me Foodie enjoy the green theme.

Refreshing beverages include the organic mango rooibos iced tea with organic carbonated fruit juices.

Savour the delicious spicy tuna tartare on toasted brioche.

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Experience the OpenRoad DifferenceTM

RICHMOND 13251 Smallwood Place (Richmond Auto Mall) Tel 604-273-3766 Dealer D7825 www.openroadtoyota.com

PORT MOODY 3166 St. Johns Street (West of Coquitlam Centre) Tel 604-461-3656 Dealer D7826 www.openroadtoyota.ca

*+ )+* + *price includes Freight & PDI, plus levies and applicable taxes.

Experience the OpenRoad Difference. Why just buy a Toyota, when you can own an OpenRoad Toyota?

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1 Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is an electronic system designed to help the driver maintain vehicle control under adverse conditions. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Factors including speed, road conditions and driver steering input can all affect whether VSC will be effective in preventing a loss of control. 2 Brake Assist is designed to help the driver take full advantage of the benefits of ABS. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Braking effectiveness also depends on proper brake-system maintenance and tire and road conditions. 3 Smart Stop Technology operates only in the event of certain simultaneous brake and gas pedal applications. When engaged, the system will reduce engine power to help the brakes bring the vehicle to a stop. Factors including speed, road conditions and driver input can all impact stopping distance. Smart Stop Technology is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving and does not guarantee instant stopping.

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