academy dedicated to enriching the lives of students from ages 18 months all the way up to adults through dance and performance,” explains Director Corey Mariuz. They offer classes in jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, lyrical/ contemporary, musical theatre, street dance, acro, and pointe. In light of “Small Business Month,” Mariuz says his advice for other entrepreneurs is to find something From “Neverland,” presented by Windsor Dance eXperience Inc., “Tiger Lily” and her Tribe, dancers Michelle Robinet at the top and (from left) Jasmin Mourad, Emily Tambakis, Simone Orlando and Kyla Perry. Photo courtesy of John Chan.
important to always look at the big picture, says Wentzell. “Know that you are making difference every time the curtain comes down,” she says. “There are always bumps in the road, but the important thing is to learn from your mistakes so you don’t repeat them.” Dancing Star #5: PURE Academy Now in their ninth year of operation, PURE Academy (PUREAcademy.ca) has several locations throughout Windsor Essex and Chatham-Kent. “We’re a not-for-profit performing arts
you love and pursue it wholeheartedly. “If you believe in it and commit 100 percent, then you position yourself in the best ways,” says Mariuz. “As the leader of any business venture or project you pursue, staying focused, humble, respectful and positive is key.” Small businesses build a sense of community and foster a local identity, Mariuz adds. “PURE Academy specifically is an example of local talent, creativity and ambition exhibited by our directors, dance instructors and students alike,” he states. “Small companies like PURE Academy provide the opportunity for local youth and adults to experience a healthy and active sense of belonging, which ultimately, strengthens the community as a whole.”
Good Things Come In Small Businesses
PURE Academy Director Corey Mariuz strikes a dance pose with Instructor Holly Holmes. Photo courtesy of Melissa Stewart Photography.
So why not learn a move or two on the dance floor while supporting local business and organizations? Commemorate “Small Business Month” in Windsor Essex and support local entrepreneurs through checking out any of the dance companies profiled here (and others in the region) as well as a wide range of industries at the “Small Biz 2016 Expo” on October 20.
The Amazing Pace Join The Lung Association for this unique event which will pit your team against others in a race through city streets as you solve clues, overcome challenges and race to the finish!
For full details, registration and fundraising, please visit
A registration fee of $25 per participant applies. This is a donation-based event and we ask participants to raise a minimum of $100 prior to event day. Prizes for the fastest team, best team costumes, top three three fundraising individuals and more. Time deductions awarded to 4-person teams raising $1,000 or more and 2-person teams raising $500 or more!
For more details about the event or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact: Julie Bortolotti The Lung Association, Windsor-Essex/Chatham-Kent Phone: 519-256-3433 Email: jbortolotti@on.lung.ca
Special thanks to:
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