Profiles Of Success 2014

B RANTFORD & BRANT COUNTY

2 01 4 P RO F I L E S O F

SUCCESS

RBC MoRtgage SpeCialiSt Sylvia JoneS

95 Lynden Rd BRantfoRd ontaRio n3R 7J9 519.758.5144 sylvia.jones@rbc.com www.mortgage.rbc.com/sylvia.jones

BC Mortgage Specialist Sylvia Jones understands that buying a home comes with equal amounts of excitement and angst. that’s why she takes it upon herself to guide every client through the process in an open and honest way, helping to alleviate anxiety by ensuring all questions and concerns are answered. “i take the clients step-by-step through all of their concerns, whether it’s their first or tenth time buying a home,” she said. “it’s important that i make them feel a level of comfort that they didn’t have when they came in. My ultimate goal is to make sure that they walk away feeling confident and secure in their choices.” the long-term financial commitment of buying a property can be daunting for clients and Jones’ believes in making the process as easy as possible. With 25 years experience in the business, she has come across many situations and found solutions to problems that benefit her clients.

Questions such as - How much can i afford? at what stage should i arrange financing? What exactly should i look for in a mortgage? - are readily discussed and answered.

“People don’t have thousands of dollars to buy a house and financing options are very different these days than in years past,” she said. “it’s a much more buyerfriendly environment.”

Jones knows that every client is as unique as their dream home, so she takes a case-by-case approach to address each client’s circumstances, rather than taking a cookie-cutter approach that may work for one person, but not another. “for me it’s not just about selling a mortgage, it’s about helping the client

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create a home and live within their chosen lifestyle,” she said. “i do whatever i can to help guide my clients in the proper direction.” in doing so Jones builds relationships with her clients that are based on trust. Supported by the resources and expertise of RBC Royal Bank, Jones can provide clients with expert advice and services for all of their home financing needs, including lending options and flexible products. during a pre-qualification process, rates, terms and amortization details are discussed so Jones can determine the client’s short-term goals as well as longterm goals. “i take a three-step approach,” she said. “a needs and goals analysis is followed by a financial assessment and then finally, the product match.” for more information about how Jones can help you buy the home of your dreams, call her at 519-758-5144 or visit www.mortgage.rbc.com/sylvia.jones.

THE MANY FACES of BRANT BUSINESS P

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > JIM TELFER - RE/MAX TWIN CITY REALTY, PARIS

JIM TELFER – RE/MAX TWIN CITY REALTY, PARIS 1 GRAND RIVER STREET PARIS ONTARIO N3R 2L9 519.758.4490 www.jimtelfer.ca homes@jimtelfer.ca

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hen it comes to Brant County it’s safe to say Jim Telfer knows the lay of the land.

As a longtime cash crop farmer and nine-year real estate agent, Telfer can easily help people looking to make a move find just what they are looking for.

It’s one of the reasons Telfer is known as “one of Brant County’s largest producers”. For Telfer, each client is a friend that he wants to make happy through his real estate expertise.

“This is something that I really enjoy because I am able to meet a lot of different people, but they all have something in common. They want to find that perfect place to call home,” he said from his Re/Max Twin City Realty office in Paris.

“I always tell my clients that I want it to be a good experience for them. When you work in a small town the chances of running into a client are pretty good.

I want them to feel good about their purchase and to feel like they can stop in, have a coffee and chat even after the sale is final.”

Telfer understands the value of family and of having a home where family can grow and create valuable lifetime memories. A father of three – Richard, 18, Jaime, 15, and Olivia, 13 – with wife April, Telfer knows how important it is to also live life to the fullest.

For that reason he balks at selling homes to his clients if it will stretch their budgets too thin.

“While people are in their home I want them to be comfortable and to have enough money to go out for dinner or a movie,” Telfer said. “You have to be able to enjoy life and be able to afford to go away once in a while, yet still have a

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home that you love. I don’t want to see my clients overextending themselves.”

Telfer shares the same principals of family and work ethic in his part-time cash crop farming business that he is carrying forward with his son Richard. The Telfer family name has been attached to agriculture, most predominantly in dairy farming, for over 60 years.

He and Richard also work together to clear snow with their snow removal company with commercial contracts throughout the Paris area during the winter months.

Even though Ontarians recently came out of one of the worst winters in history, housing sales continued to be strong for Telfer.

“People are still buying houses, especially in Paris and Brant County where it is considered prime real estate.”

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > ANDY LAIR - YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE BROKER

ANDY LAIR YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE BROKER 515 PARK ROAD NORTH BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 7K8 519.750.4636 www.remaxtwincity.ca bdl1_@hotmail.com

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

ndy Lair is a proud Canadian.

It’s a statement he makes truthfully, and it’s the reason he proudly served his country in the Canadian Military for 23 years.

Before becoming a RE/MAX Twin City Realty sales representative and now Broker, Andy participated in peacekeeping missions in combat zones like Sarajevo, Bosnia, Croatia, Yugoslavia and Cyprus.

He also worked with NATO in Germany for five years.

Now, by serving his hometown of Paris, Brantford and the surrounding area as their local Real Estate Broker, Andy’s continued sense of patriotic duty helps him to look after his clients’ Real Estate needs.

Andy uses much of the skills and negotiating techniques he learned in the military to ensure his clients get the best buying or selling price and that the home they buy is the home of their dreams.

“The military trained me well,” he said.

“In the military you have to be very disciplined. I learned to listen, to defend and to attack. In Real Estate you listen to a client’s needs, then you make a plan and execute it. It is a plan that is customized to what will fit their family’s needs.”

Andy’s no-nonsense strategy has served him well in his Real Estate career.

This year he surpassed his goal of reaching $100 million in sales in just over 10 years.

Whether Andy is looking at a home with eyes of a buyer or seller, his goal is always to get the best price and best home for his clients.

“Before people know it we get what we want,” he said. “I have many high speed courses in the military such as low level conflict resolution and mediation

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training, and if you can get yourself out of conflicts, you can certainly deal with other agents, sellers and buyers.”

Andy shares is patriotic pride with fellow Paris residents, clients and friends every Canada Day when he hosts a huge birthday celebration for his country in the backyard of his Paris home.

“Being a patriotic soldier I love Canada so every year I invite all of the locals to come out and celebrate Canada Day with a live band in my backyard,” Andy said.

“I’m a proud Canadian who just wants to give back and celebrate Canada.”

Clients also give back by referring Andy to family and friends.

“I believe strongly that if you take care of your clients, they will take care of you,” he said. “I’m willing to work with clients on things like commission and I think they appreciate that.”

Andy trained several up-and-coming Real Estate agents and helped former clients enter into the business. He was also a Hall of Fame Award Winner and multi-Platinum Award Winner in 2009, P 2011 and 2012.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT 300 KING GEORGE ROAD BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 5L8 519.752.1627 www.menchies.ca facebook.com/MenchiesBrantford

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ince opening its doors at the Brantford Commons (by Walmart) in November 2012, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt has put the fun in going out for a frozen treat.

In fact, because Menchie’s allows customers to create their own flavourful combinations, every visit is a unique and entertaining experience.

At Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt people can mix and match any combination of frozen yogurt flavours and toppings at a self-serve yogurt station, choosing from seasonal selections that blend options like hot chocolate and marshmallow to create wonderful taste sensations.

The self-serve model eliminates long line-ups as people move along to fill their selected cups or fresh waffle bowls with their flavours and toppings of choice.

Menchie’s Brantford has 14 yogurt flavours in store at any one time and nearly 100 rotating flavours, which include a range of regular, non-fat, low-carb, no added sugar, gluten-free and dairy-free yogurts. Yogurt selections have about one-half to one-third less calories compared to ice cream.

Selections can be topped with a choice of over 50 rotating toppings that include fresh fruit, candy, hot sauces and much more.

If customers can’t make up their minds, Menchie’s friendly mixologists are there to help by suggesting flavour combinations and toppings to suit peoples’ tastes.

Free samples of new flavours are also available so people can be sure the flavour they choose is one they will like.

When customers are done mixing their own delicious creation, the mix is measured by mixologists and priced according to weight.

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From there, people can sit in air-conditioned comfort in the bright and colourful yogurt parlour, or enjoy the summer breezes on the outdoor patio.

The Menchie’s experience is so much fun that many parents will choose the location for their child’s birthday party.

Menchie’s party packages include a cup of yogurt and a drink for each child, a tour of Menchie’s kitchen, a yogurt making experience with a mixologist, gift bags for each child, a visit with Menchie and games.

Charitable organizations can also host in-store fundraisers with 20 per cent of proceeds going towards their organization. They simply select a day for the fundraiser and spread the word to get community support.

Visit Menchie’s online at menchies.com/ fundraising, fill out a form and detail your fundraising objectives. Menchie’s will provide the necessary tools to promote the event.

So visit Menchie’s and prepare for an enjoyable experience. It’s as simple and fun as...

1. Mix 2. Weigh 3. Pay 4. Yumm!

2013

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Best New Business 2013

Other Reader’s Choice Awards.

Platinum - Best Ice Cream Platinum - Best Desserts Platinum - Best Frozen Food Honourable Mention - Best New Restaurant 2012

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > BRANTFORD KIA

BRANTFORD KIA 214 LYNDEN ROAD BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 8A3 519.304.6542

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

t may be one of the younger brands on the market, but Kia has grown up to be a strong contender against some of the most notable names in the automobile industry.

“The value is probably the number one thing,” Dealer Principal Pat Hart of Branford Kia said. “On multiple occasions we won for best value on the market.”

The awards by Kelley Blue Book - an automotive valuation company in California - were based on a scale measuring selling price, financing, warranty, repair costs, insurance costs and depreciation.

In 2012 Kia hit another high note when it was ranked in the top seventh position of best vehicles in Canada, forging ahead of both Mazda and Nissan.

“That changes everything,” Hart said.

“Some brands that have been around a lot longer than us, we’ve surpassed them.

In the past six years we have doubled our volume in Canada.”

Although the company had a shaky start trying to prove itself in the Canadian market, things abruptly turned around when German automobile designer Peter Schreyer was hired.

“He had been with Audi Volkswagen for 25 Years and Kia went out and said ‘we want you,’” Hart said. “He became the head of design and when he did that he changed the look of the whole company.

“We used to be just functional, good quality, but really bland. Now it’s functional, good quality and cool looking.

Cool product sells.”

But no matter how good the product, it won’t sell on its own. That’s why Brantford Kia takes an honest, up-front approach to selling cars, so customers have a good experience from start to finish.

“As far as I know we are the only deal-

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ership where our salespeople are not on commission,” Hart said. “They’re on salary and their bonus is based on how well the customer rates the experience with them. They don’t worry about their pocket, they worry about what the experience is like for the customer.”

Since making that shift, Brantford Kia satisfaction scores have gone up significantly.

“Our volume has gone up,” Hart said.

“We try to tell customers up front, we’re not on commission and we’ll give you a great price.”

Customer satisfaction in the product is also evident this year as people return to trade in their used Kias for newer models.

“We started with not so many cars on the road in 2010 so one of the great parts of our success this year is that we’ve got people coming in and buying their second and third one,” Hart said. “We definitely made a big jump this year.”

Brantford Kia also prides itself with reaching out to the community and in partnership with New City Church, the company helps outfit children from economically challenged families with new school supplies and outfits each year. P

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > NUTRITION HOUSE

Nicole, Heather, Michelle, Alma (4 of 5 Nutrition House Brantford team members)

NUTRITION HOUSE LYNDEN PARK MALL 84 LYNDEN ROAD BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 6B8 519.757.0628 www.nutritionhouse.com facebook: nutritionhouselynden

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hen a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis sidelined Nicole Kernohan 11 years ago, she decided to fight back.

Rather than embark on a lifetime of medications to combat symptoms of MS, Kernohan educated herself about natural health remedies and lifestyle changes that would help her manage her condition.

Today Kernohan, 33, is a picture of health and she is using her knowledge to help others discover their road to wellness at Nutrition House in Lynden Park Mall.

Kernohan, a certified Nutrition Wellness Specialist and Personal Trainer, is joined by a team of educated, knowledgeable staff that are also committed to helping others improve their health. “The most important thing for us is to provide excellent service to our customers,” Kernohan said. “Our goal is to find the right solutions for each individual rather than just assuming everything works the same for everyone.” Kernohan and her team will try to get to know the customer, dig deeper, and find out what they really need to ensure the products recommended are truly going to enhance the customers’ quality of life.

“We also understand that natural supplements are part of a bigger picture for ultimate health which includes stress management, sleep, exercise, nutrition, etc,” Kernohan said.“From a nutrition perspective, we hand out a food list to customers which provides support for weight management, diabetes, inflammatory conditions such as arthritis as well as general health.” And since educating others is important to them, they offer free heath information sessions through-

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out the year in their on-site natural health clinic.

Kernohan purchased Nutrition House 11 months ago, saying it was an “amazing fit”. The store has been at Lynden Park Mall for 15 years.

“Nutrition House is a Canadian familyfocused natural health company with a goal to lead and foster the well-being of others,” Kernohan said. “Our products include natural vitamins, supplements and health foods for adults and children as well as body care. Included is a wide selection of natural supplements to support specific conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, weight loss, digestive care, sports nutrition, stress care, and more.”

Products are hand-selected by the team and approved through Nutrition House head office so staff know and trust the products they sell. “We work with our suppliers for regular training because it’s important to us to know what is in a product and what works,” Kernohan said.

Giving back to the community in Brantford through fundraising initiatives like their Toonie Tuesdays, silent auctions and special events are also important to Kernohan and the Nutrition House team.

Short video of Kernohan describing what she’s done to manager MS naturally: http://bit.ly/1oL7W4k.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > HOOTON POOLS & SPAS

HOOTON POOLS AND SPAS 320 NORTH PARK STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 4L3 519.751.0800 www.hooton.ca

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

regg and Wendy Hooton have a simple philosophy when it comes to operating Hooton Pools and Spas: Treat people with courtesy and respect, provide customers with a good product and ensure they receive quality service long after the sale has been made.

It’s a philosophy adopted by Gregg at a young age after growing up in a family with roots firmly planted in the local business community since 1947.

Today, Gregg, Wendy and their sons Taylor and Dawson continue to operate Hooton Pools and Spas with the same traditional family values that earned the Hooton name a stellar reputation in the community.

“The Hooton family has been doing business in the Brantford community for over 65 years, so it is a name that people can trust,” Gregg said. “We have a commitment to the community that can’t be replicated by big box stores. This is where we live, shop and play and we support our local businesses just like we would like to be supported.”

Hooton Pools and Spas is a complete pool store that sells quality products like Coast Spas, aluminum above-ground pools and fiberglass in-ground pools.

“We only sell products that we trust and believe in,” Gregg said. “It’s a reflection of who we are. We always offer outstanding service by backing our product and backing our service.”

Hooton Pools and Spas also installs and services pools, offers products to keep water perfectly balanced, does repairs and sells a wide range of pool toys, filters, pumps, covers, vacuums and more.

“We work hard to make it easy for our customers so they can really focus on

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enjoying their pools and spas,” Wendy said. “We never oversell products. We only guide people to the products they need to keep their pool or spa in the best condition.”

In addition to the Hooton family, all of Hooton Pools and Spas employees can quickly respond to customer concerns, questions and requests.

“We want to educate our customer so they can fully enjoy their pools and spas throughout the season,” Wendy said.

“Our store is a one-stop shop for all of our clients needs and they will always benefit from sound advice and quality service.”

The full, in-house service department allows service and warranty issues to be dealt with efficiently and in a timely manner. Hooton Pools and Spas also has its own installation crew so customers have peace-of-mind knowing they are dealing directly with the business they purchased their product from.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > STUDIO 5. 6. 7. 8 INC.

STUDIO 5.6.7.8 INC. 241 DUNSDON STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO 519.752.6678 www.studio5678.com dance@studio5678.com

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aroline McLaughlin loves to see shy young children blossom through dance instruction.

“During our year-end recitals a lot of parents will say to me ‘I never thought she would have done this,’” McLaughlin said. “Dance really builds self confidence and self esteem. I would highly recommend it for a shy child because they learn to feel that sense of teamwork.”

The owner of Studio 5.6.7.8 Inc. has seen the transformation in thousands of children since first opening her Dunsdon Street dance studio 22 years ago.

Through the instruction of McLaughlin and her team of 12 dance professionals, the many strides made in the development of young boys and girls into confident, team-oriented dancers has helped the studio grow threefold.

“I started with one unit at the front of the building that had one dance room, one change room and a huge lobby,” McLaughlin recalled. “We made the one dance room into two and then built into the lobby 15 years ago.”

As interest in Studio 5.6.7.8 Inc. continued to grow, so too did the studio.

Five years ago McLaughlin expanded yet again into a unit at the side of the building and last summer, another expansion took place beside that unit.

There are now a total of four dance rooms where classes run every evening and on weekends.

“I wanted to meet the growing needs of the community,” she said. “When I added the fourth studio parents wanted a dance class too, so I started offering Adult Ballet, Bollywood and Tap classes and now we also have Barre Fitness for adults.”

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When she opened her dance studio, McLaughlin strived to keep the focus on the enjoyment of dance and the resulting fitness aspect. About 85 per cent of students dance recreationally and 15 per cent are involved in competitive dance.

“There is a stigma that dance costs a lot of money or that a child has to be competitive, but it’s not like that here,” McLaughlin said.

A wide range of dance programs, from tap, jazz, ballet, hip-hop and acrobatics, to musical theatre, lyrical jazz and contemporary dance are offered.

Recreational programs alleviate the pressure of driving to dance competitions, purchasing numerous costumes and incurring additional fees involved with competitive dance.

It also allows the studio to keep class sizes small, with about 12 students per class.

“It allows for more one-on-one instruction,” McLaughlin said. “Our under age five classes have a teacher plus an assistant.”

Class and costume prices are very affordable, enabling more children to enjoy dance.

“The big thing for me is that every student here is referred to by name,” McLaughlin said. “I always wanted to provide dance education in a fun and family-friendly atmosphere.

“I never say to my husband ‘I’m going to work,’ I say ‘I’m off to the studio.’ It never feels like work because I love what P I do.”

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > EVERYTHING AUTOMOTIVE

“Owner, Harvey Travis; Business Manager, Bo Hluchaniuk: State-Of-The-Art Equipment Being Used at Everything Automotive’s 8,000 Square Foot Facility”

EVERYTHING AUTOMOTIVE 35 Henry Street, Unit 6 BrAntFOrD OntAriO n3r 1Z9 519.751.3500 www.everythingautomotive.ca

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

rust! it’s one word. One very important word when it comes to your vehicle. When local motorists come in to everything Automotive at 35 Henry Street in Brantford and talk to the staff, they understand the trust relationship that owner Harvey travis and the team at “eA” works so hard to maintain.

Celebrating their 15th year in business, they have come a long way from their earlier days at their first location on West Street. Having started with aftermarket accessories, everything Automotive has grown in to a full service facility that can handle all needs from classic to modern, domestic to import, and even heavy duty commercial vehicles.

“We respect that the customer has the choice when it comes to where to get work done on their vehicle,” travis says. “that’s why we respect each and every customer and make sure that their trust in our work and our people will grow with each visit.”

Bo Hluchaniuk is the Business Manager at everything Automotive. When talking about the trust relationship between eA and its customers, Bo says “it’s important to be able to build a relationship with each and every customer. that way we get to know each individual’s expectations and vehicle history.” He sums it up best when he says “Safety is nothing to mess around with. it’s why we make service and repair recommendations.

What i would do for my family, i would do for you.”

Like the name says, everything Automotive can do it all – repair, renew, refinish and restyle. When it comes to your second biggest investment, your vehicle, trust means you know that maintenance is a # 1 priority. the knowledgeable staff

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at eA can advise you on the prevention necessary to save you money and prevent even costlier breakdowns. you have to invest in proper equipment in order to have reliable repairs and trustworthy service. that’s why everything Automotive has invested into new, cutting edge equipment to keep you safe behind the wheel while doing so effectively and efficiently. From state-of-theart wireless 4 wheel alignment machines to fluid flush machines for all your vehicle’s critical fluid systems, eA can help you be confident in your vehicle’s safety and performance. “yes, we work on daily driver cars but we also love cars,” says Harvey travis. “that’s why our annual Canada Day Car Show has become a Brant tradition. We spend thousands of hours planning this fun, community and charitable event. it’s a way of us showing the community how much we love the industry while giving something back to the community.”

Ask tina Hluchaniuk about the event and she smiles. “yes it’s a lot of work but it’s even more fun. When it all comes together, knowing that a worthwhile charity benefits, makes everyone at eA very proud.” trust! in the automotive service industry it means knowing the work will be done right. it means that the quality of the parts and people will be of the highest caliber. even more than that, trUSt means the business and the people you work with will be here today, tomorrow, and for many years to come.

Working with and helping those who work and live here … giving back to the community of Brant. that’s why Brant motorists spell trust… eA! P

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > BRANT STEREO

BRANT STEREO 19 • EST • 73

44 MARKET STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3T 2Z5 519.752.1783 www.brantstereo.com

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et ready to Be Moved by Sony 4K. Described by Sony as being “Like nothing you’ve ever experienced,” 4K is the latest video technology that makes watching a movie or a sporting event feel like you are part of the action.

Also described as ultra HD, Sony 4K offers four times the pixel resolution as many top grade panels. The result is a crystal clear picture with vivid colours and fluid movement.

“A top grade panel currently has 2.2 million pixel resolution where (4K) has 8.3 million pixels,” John O’Neill, owner of Brant Stereo, said. “The key ingredient on this technology is the ability of Sony to support a 4K panel with the best video processor on the market. You have to step up your game on video processing to get this type of image.

“Most companies have just entered the 4K business, but Sony introduced their first version of 4K for public use and public viewing more than two-and-a-half years ago. Sony is now on their fourth generation 4K product, where some companies are just on their first try.”

O’Neill pulled no punches in stating Sony has, “absolutely the best video processor and the best picture.”

His Market Street showroom was awash with sound as O’Neill cranked up the volume of a 79-inch Sony 4K. “Listening to the Sony 4K you can tell you don’t need an extra audio system and it makes for a nice clean install because the Sony 4K will run a wireless sub-woofer, which can be hidden,” O’Neill said.

Sony 4K televisions come in five sizes, 55-inch, 65-inch, 70-inch and 79-inch

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and 85-inch. All sizes are available with built-in speakers, but people can opt to purchase 55, 65 and 70-inch sets without the deluxe speakers if they already have a surround sound system, with substantial savings.

Sony’s advanced circuit enables people to play conventional DVDs or conventional signals and still benefit from 4K technology.

“Sony 4K sets will up-convert any regular signal to 4K,” O’Neill said. “It has a positive impact on the picture no matter what signal you play on the Sony 4K TV. You can hook up your same old HD box from Rogers, Shaw or Bell and get a better picture immediately.”

About 30 percent of the total number of Sony’s 2014 models offer 4K technology.

“When you start seeing that type of commitment to this 4K technology there’s not much question that it’s going to stay,” O’Neill said. “In two to three years you won’t be able to buy anything but 4K.” The 79-inch Sony 4K screen can be viewed at Brant Stereo. Brant Stereo also carries all the top quality products.

Names like Bluesound, Geneva, Tivoli Audio, NAD and Paradigm are exclusively available at Brant Stereo.

“These are all products widely recognized as being at the top of the food chain in the electronics business,” O’Neill said. “And after 41 years in business the easiest part of my job is beating up on all my competitor’s prices.”

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > MILLARDS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

MILLARDS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS 96 NELSON STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO 519.759.3511 www.millards.com

Millards

Chartered Accountants www.millards.com

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

ike most young Brantford residents fresh out of university, Julie Baetz was determined to find her place in the world by moving away.

After articling at Millards Chartered Accountants in Brantford, she left the city for a position in Hamilton.

“I went to Hamilton to work for a big firm,” Baetz said. “I left because I thought a bigger firm would have bigger opportunities, but it wasn’t so.”

Today Baetz is an Associate at Millards, specializing in audits for not-for-profit organizations. She also works with small to large businesses with their accounting needs as well as personal income taxes.

Baetz will be promoted to Partner on August 1, 2014.

She is proud to be walking in the footsteps of the people that are part of Millards long-standing history in the community.

Established in 1920, Millards has grown and diversified to provide a full range of financial services for a broad range of clients, from individuals to large corporate firms. It is the largest accounting firm in Brantford currently with 4 Associates, 15 Partners and a total of 85 employees.

The commitment to the community Millards conveys is what sets the accounting firm apart.

“Millards is a very people-oriented business, that’s how most of the company has grown, through relationships,” Baetz said. “Millards as a whole always donates and gives back to the community.”

The scope of community involvement exhibited by Millards is as broad as the services offered. From community event sponsorships and series sponsorship at Brantford’s Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, to donating dinner

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rolls and drinks for Boys and Girls Club events, Millards prides itself with lending a helping hand.

“When I started here it was instilled in me pretty quickly that you need to get involved in the community, whether it’s sitting on boards or getting involved in charities just through volunteering,” Associate Steve McGaghran said.

“Because we are all Brant residents, we have a personal interest in this community doing well.”

McGaghran also works with some notfor-profit organizations in addition to specializing in trades, construction and manufacturing industries. He has been with Millards for 10 years.

The relationship-building philosophy of Millards is emphasized in the workplace as well.

“The firm is also generous towards its staff with functions that they put on and benefits that they give us,” Baetz said.

Millards’ senior Partners share their experience to help guide younger employees.

“The other good thing I would say about working here is mentorship,” McGaghran said. “Senior Partners try to train younger staff so they learn what knowledge they have or what good habits they developed over the years.”

The attention to service Millard employees give, have second and third generation clients returning.

“Anyone can key in the tax return but it’s the little extras that we can give,” P Baetz said.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > DAVID A.B. BAILEY INTERIORS

DAVID A.B. BAILEY INTERIORS 13 MAIN, STREET, SOUTH P.O. BOX 1010 ST. GEORGE ONTARIO N0E 1N0 519.448.3370 dabbjet@on.aibn.com www.davidabbailey.com

DAVID A. B. BAILEY INTERIORS

Working with the wrong decorator can be very costly, working with the right decorator... PRICELESS!

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avid Bailey has done whatever he can to make the world a more beautiful place to live, whether it be with fabric or his volunteer

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time.

The successful proprietor of David A.B. Bailey Interiors Inc. in St. George has made a good living completing interior decorating projects of all budgets, sizes and styles for 25 years.

And he continues to pay that good fortune forward as board chair of Brantwood Community Services, Board of Directors for the Sanderson Centre Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, Brant Community Foundation, supporter of the Grand River Grannies, Brantford Animal Aid, vice-chair of Brant Police Services Board and many other roles.

Bailey spent 39 years associated with the Brantford Rotary Club, from the exchange student program to the Paul Harris Fellowship, and only left recently because his plate had become too full.

Perhaps the most salient example of his professional and philanthropic work coming together was designing the interiors of four Rotary Dream Homes, a draw which raises money for local youth organizations such as Lansdowne Children’s Centre.

Even his home and place of work, Sunnyside, was purchased to help preserve a piece of St. George history. Bailey has decorated the stately house to honour its 19th century roots.

“I came from a modest beginning,” said Bailey, who grew up in the St. GeorgeGlen Morris area. “It’s easy to have all this because I don’t care. I would be just as happy living with much less.”

Bailey cares a great deal about the work he does for all his clients, no matter

what the budget might be.

“I’ve worked on everything from multimillion dollar homes to hanging wallpaper at a seniors residence,” said Bailey, who specializes in renovations, new home planning, kitchens, bathrooms and virtually every other facet of making your home a space you’ll love to live in.

“A common misconception is that you need to have a lot of money to use me as your interior decorator, but no budget is too small for me.

“I’m a good investment because I don’t spend money foolishly. I’m famous for spending a client’s money like it was my own. I’m cheap and I’m no label watcher.”

Bailey doesn’t care about following trends - although he keeps up to date on them - he cares about making his clients happy.

And don’t let the look of the Victorian mansion fool you. Bailey embraces work in all styles.

“I’m excited to see people going back to using metals as modern finishes,” he said. “I love marble, simple finishes with a classic look. They might be old, but they are looked at as current and fresh.”

When a job is done, Bailey gives more of himself back to the community than he keeps, especially to help kids growing up with challenges.

“I love working with kids,” he said.

“They smile at everything we do for them and expect nothing back.”

David Bailey takes on interior design work for all styles and budgets.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > SWEET BAKERY

SWEET BAKERY 403 FAIRVIEW DR UNIT #9 BRANTFORD ONTARIO 519.753.2211 staceyfarrant@live.ca facebook/SweetBakeryBrant

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

ife is Sweet for Stacey Farrant.

After working in marketing and advertising for the past several years, Farrant has come full circle with the opening of Sweet Bakery, returning to a passion that drove her even as a young child.

Her love for baking spurred her to start a home-based business when she was in her teen years.

“I started it when I was 19 and was enrolled to go to George Brown College to take their baking techniques program, but my circumstances changed and I didn’t end up going,” Farrant said.

She continued baking for family and friends while she was at home raising her children, in addition to offering home childcare and home staging services.

“The last six years I’ve been out of the home working so I didn’t focus on (baking) as much because my availability wasn’t there,” Farrant said.

Her passion for baking was reignited last summer when she auditioned for a part on Master Chef Canada.

“That’s when it really triggered,” Farrant said. “Even though I had been doing Domestic Diva segments on Inside Brant for Rogers TV, the Master Chef audition kind of helped ignite that passion again.

I just knew that was really the direction I wanted my life to take.”

With three children in university Farrant wasn’t so sure opening a business was financially feasible. After much research and the constant urging of friends and family, she decided to take the leap.

“I started doing my homework and started to put things together and realized the dream was much more attainable than I thought.”

In May Sweet Bakery opened its doors

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to much fanfare, drawing many of Farrant’s former customers and many more new customers anxious to taste her mouthwatering desserts and confections.

A quaint, French bakery style serves as a charming backdrop for the cakes, cookies, squares, cupcakes, loaves, coffeecakes and other delights sold there.

“I want to offer people an experience from the second they come in the door,” Farrant said. “I want them to feel like they are somewhere special, from the décor and the presentation of baked goods, right down to the packaging.

“I wanted people to have that feeling like they are on an excursion and they found somewhere special to come into.”

People can custom order desserts and confections for special occasions and events, including weddings, birthdays and corporate gatherings. Treats can be customized with logos, sentiments and favourite images or characters.

“If someone is having a special celebration we can customize their desserts to their needs,” Farrant said. “We can do things that are more simple and rustic right down to catering something more formal like a wedding.”

All baked goods and desserts are made fresh from scratch daily with only premium quality ingredients, yet are affordable so everyone can satisfy their P sweet tooth.

PAGE 13 ❰

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > CHERYL AVARELL - ROYAL LEPAGE ACTION REALTY

CHERYL AVARELL ROYAL LEPAGE ACTION REALTY 766 COLBORNE STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3S 3S1 519.753.7311 www.royallepage.ca CherylAvarell@royallepage.ca

Action Realty

❱ PAGE 14

here is more to buying or selling a home than the real estate transaction, says Cheryl Avarell of Royal LePage Action Realty.

“I think the first step is building relationships with the buyers and sellers because we both have to feel comfortable with each other to achieve the desired result,” Avarell said. “Along the way that leads to many friendships.”

Avarell has been forming friendships with people in the community since becoming a real estate agent 31 years ago.

Now, she continues to serve second and third generation families.

“The greatest compliment after that long period of time in real estate is that (former client’s) children and grandchildren are now calling me,” Avarell said. “I’ve been dealing with families for generations and you feel very connected to them. You really do care because you know the whole family.”

Through referrals, Avarell also gets to know her client’s extended family and friends.

By building relationships with her clients, Avarell gains insight into their needs and wants when it comes to their ‘dream’ home. She is able to pinpoint houses on the market that fulfill their wishes.

“I am so thankful and grateful for the people that have entrusted me to fulfill their dreams,” Avarell said. “I share their excitement.”

At times, the sale of a home isn’t a happy event, due to a break-up or death.

Avarell takes extra care to ensure it is done in a thoughtful, compassionate and professional manner.

“You deal with a lot of different emotions,” she said. “But again, it is just

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about caring and trying to make it happen the way they need it to happen.”

Avarell knows that even though they are buying or selling a home, a client’s busy everyday life carries on. That’s because she too is part of a busy, active family, with her husband Paul and son Braun running the family’s Fescue’s Edge Golf Course.

Avarell’s ability to identify with her clients comes from her decades-long knowledge of the real estate industry.

Avarell has seen a lot of changes and always endeavours to stay on top of the latest trends.

“I feel, working with someone with experience of the overall industry is so important when someone chooses to take that step with an agent,” she said.

Royal LePage awarded Avarell the lifetime Award of Excellence, in addition to honouring her for being in the top 5 per cent of Royal LePage agents in all of Canada. She has sold over $10 million in real estate since January this year.

“Anyone looking to buy or sell, I would P welcome the call,” Avarell said.

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > AVENUE LIGHTING AND DESIGN

AVENUE LIGHTING AND DESIGN 405 ST. PAUL AVENUE BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 4N7 519.756.9511 www.avenuelighting.ca avenuelighting@yahoo.ca

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

ith a wide selection of lighting for every nook and cranny of the home, Avenue Lighting and Design prides itself with being a one-stop source for everyone’s lighting needs.

“We’re the only lighting store in Brantford and we try to have such a wide selection so we can cater to everybody’s budget as well as everybody’s style,” Sherree Canning, who opened the store in 2009 with her husband Matt Ladd, said.

Exterior lamps, landscape lighting, under-cabinet lighting, flush mounts, wall sconces, sports-themed lighting and glittering chandeliers are among the many styles to be found. The store recently brought in table and floor lamps for the patio.

“People’s deck and patios are becoming extensions of their homes,” Sherree said. “So its nice to be able to put a lamp on a side table outside.”

Sherree and Matt travel to a lighting show in Dallas every year to keep abreast of the latest trends and keep their selection updated.

“We spend many hours sourcing things that we don’t have,” Sherree said. “It’s nice that we can physically see a light before we purchase it. It makes a big difference from ordering out of a catalogue.

“I also think one of the reasons our selection is so good is because we are opposites. I look at the pretty and Matt looks at the technical.”

Prices at Avenue Lighting and Design are just as varied as the selection.

“We aren’t just high-end, we do have competitive brands and prices so that we can accommodate every budget,” Sherree said. “If people come in to see us with

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a budget, we like to work within their budget, instead of just doing it half-way.”

Matt, Sherree and their staff are trained in lighting to help clients with their individual needs. The store can also assist people with entire makeovers of a room or several rooms.

“We can help people with so many different areas now,” Sherree said. “We can light their homes, we can do wallpaper, we can do blinds, drapes, furniture and cabinet hardware, so we can start and almost complete a project all from here.

“Three of us here have experience in interior decorating so we can be really hands-on on a job or we can hold the client’s hand, whatever they need.”

Home consultations enable Avenue Lighting staff to help clients pull a project together. If the project is extensive, staff can pull from a list of local contracP tors or give referrals.

PAGE 15 ❰

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > RBC MORTGAGE SPECIALIST - SYLVIA JONES

RBC MORTGAGE SPECIALIST SYLVIA JONES 95 LYNDEN RD BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 7J9 519.758.5144 sylvia.jones@rbc.com www.mortgage.rbc.com/sylvia.jones

❱ PAGE 16

BC Mortgage Specialist Sylvia Jones understands that buying a home comes with equal amounts of excitement and angst.

That’s why she takes it upon herself to guide every client through the process in an open and honest way, helping to alleviate anxiety by ensuring all questions and concerns are answered.

“I take the clients step-by-step through all of their concerns, whether it’s their first or tenth time buying a home,” she said. “It’s important that I make them feel a level of comfort that they didn’t have when they came in. My ultimate goal is to make sure that they walk away feeling confident and secure in their choices.”

The long-term financial commitment of buying a property can be daunting for clients and Jones’ believes in making the process as easy as possible. With 25 years experience in the business, she has come across many situations and found solutions to problems that benefit her clients.

Questions such as - How much can I afford? At what stage should I arrange financing? What exactly should I look for in a mortgage? - are readily discussed and answered.

“People don’t have thousands of dollars to buy a house and financing options are very different these days than in years past,” she said. “It’s a much more buyerfriendly environment.”

Jones knows that every client is as unique as their dream home, so she takes a case-by-case approach to address each client’s circumstances, rather than taking a cookie-cutter approach that may work for one person, but not another.

“For me it’s not just about selling a mortgage, it’s about helping the client

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create a home and live within their chosen lifestyle,” she said. “I do whatever I can to help guide my clients in the proper direction.”

In doing so Jones builds relationships with her clients that are based on trust. Supported by the resources and expertise of RBC Royal Bank, Jones can provide clients with expert advice and services for all of their home financing needs, including lending options and flexible products.

During a pre-qualification process, rates, terms and amortization details are discussed so Jones can determine the client’s short-term goals as well as longterm goals.

“I take a three-step approach,” she said.

“A needs and goals analysis is followed by a financial assessment and then finally, the product match.”

For more information about how Jones can help you buy the home of your dreams, call her at 519-758-5144 or visit www.mortgage.rbc.com/sylvia.jones. P

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > JEFF MOISAN - ASSOCIATE REALTY BRANTFORD INC.

Jeff Moisan associate Realty bRantfoRd inc., bRokeRage

C: 519.774.4501 B: 519.752.4116 F: 519.752.4117 jeff@jeffmoisan.com www.jeffmoisan.com

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

eff Moisan has practiced consultative selling for the better part of a decade now and understands that success in sales is a direct result of creating success for his customers and clients. Jeff believes that providing the highest level of customer service means clients’ priorities always come first, and it is of the utmost importance to keep them informed at all times. He also believes that truly understanding clients’ needs and wants will ultimately lead to success and satisfaction in buying or selling their dream home.

Jeff earned his Honours Bachelor of Business Administration degree at Wilfrid Laurier University. Immediately upon graduation, he entered the corporate world and developed his consultative selling and negotiating skills with large Fortune 500 Companies such as Pitney Bowes and Xerox Canada.

Since becoming a Real Estate Sales Representative in Brantford, he and his family have truly embraced the community. Jeff and Laura are very proud to call Brantford home, and to raise their two young sons in this wonderful community.

“Whether it’s the parks, trails, vast array of businesses and services, clubs, and sports teams, there is so much to enjoy in this great city. I absolutely love meeting new clients who are considering the move to Brantford, because there is so much for them to discover and enjoy when they decide to make the move.”

If you like to visit open houses around the city, you will surely meet Jeff along the way. He hosts open houses every weekend, and quite often hosts more than one.

“Open houses are a great way for me to enhance the market exposure of my

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listed homes and obtain feedback for my clients. More and more people are finding listings online or in the newspaper, and are waiting for the weekend to view these homes during an open house. It is important for me to host open houses on a regular basis for each of my listed homes, so we don’t miss out on any potential buyers.”

Jeff emphasizes the importance of creating as much marketing exposure as he can for his listed homes. For every home he lists for sale, he creates a professional video tour of the property.

“Most potential buyers take a look at photos online prior to viewing properties.

By offering a narrated video tour of the home, I can explain the great features and unique characteristics that potential buyers would not see in the photos. It educates them about the property, and further entices them to schedule an appointment to personally view the home”.

Jeff is extremely passionate and dedicated to his real estate profession and brings a great deal of experience with him. He embraces the opportunity to go above and beyond for his clients and provides a personal touch that is dedicated to you and your priorities.

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PAGE 17 ❰

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > GLOBAL PET FOODS

GLOBAL PET FOODS 39 KING GEORGE RD BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 5K2 519.759.8531 globalbrantford@rogers.com www.globalpetfoods.com

❱ PAGE 18

andy Golden never expected her part-time job at Ryan’s Pet Food would become a full-time career.

But Golden ended up finding her passion and 30 years later she continues to work at and manage the store, which in 2000 became Global Pet Foods.

“I definitely know that my passion is people and pets, which are important family members,” Golden said. “Whatever it is about the pet business gets in your skin. It’s the person that I’ve become.”

Global carries a variety of pet foods - specializing in natural and holistic pet food, treats and supplements – as well as a range of pet health and beauty supplies, toys, carriers, crates, pet beds, clothing, leashes, collars and training tools.

“You will find the essential pet products that all pet parents need in caring for their companion pets, whether they are cats, dogs, birds, fish or small animals such as hamsters and ferrets,” Golden said.

“Our philosophy is that caring for pets must include these four elements: Mind, Body, Soul and Spirit. By offering a unique and wide selection of wholesome pet food accessories and supplies, that encompasses these four elements.”

Global Pet Foods prides itself with customer service and product knowledge so every family is armed with the information they need to make the best possible decisions for their pet’s nutrition and wellbeing.

It is the largest Canadian-owned specialty pet retailer with over 160 stores across Canada.

“The majority of our stores are franchised and independently owned and

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operated by people who are doting pet parents, agility enthusiasts, animal advocates and trainers who have a wealth of knowledge about pet nutrition and pet care,” Golden said.

Golden credits her caring and knowledgeable staff with the store’s ongoing success. Many employees have been with the store for at least seven years. It has operated out of the 39 King George Rd. plaza for 35 years.

“My staff say it’s like Hotel California, you can come but you can never leave,” Golden laughed. “Ryan’s Global has been a landmark because we were one of the first pet food stores in Brantford.”

Along with the joy of pet ownership comes a time of sorrow and when a pet dies Golden and her staff grieve with the pet’s family.

“You also feel their pain but when they come back in with a new puppy it’s like a rebirth,” Golden said. “We treat everyone who comes in here like family, their pets are our pets.”

Two years ago a growing customer base necessitated a move to a larger, neighbouring unit with 5,400 sq. ft. of retail space, including an on-site petgrooming salon.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > BYO BREWERIES

BYO Breweries 125A STANLEY STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 2R7 519.753.2962 www.byobreweries.com

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

on Wolan can’t even estimate how many celebrations his business has been represented at.

From weddings and birthdays, anniversaries and community events, BYO Breweries has helped people party in style for the past 25 years, offering some of the finest brew your own wine kits on the market today.

There are many community events that Wolan himself is spotted at throughout the year, such as the Brantford – Brant Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, Brantford’s Canada Day celebrations, Brantford International Villages and may more.

When he isn’t helping people create their favourite brews at BYO’s location on the corner of Grey and Stanley Streets, Wolan is helping the community with various projects as a member of the Dunsdon Legion and Masonic Lodge.

“Working with the Royal Canadian Legion and the Ontario Masons has given me opportunities to become a better person,” Wolan said. “Raising money for causes such as the Canadian Diabetes Association, Help a Child Smile, Big Hair for Little Kids, Can Jam for Cancer, to name a few, is very rewarding spiritually.”

Reaching out to the community is a way for Wolan to give thanks for the support Brantford has shown to him and co-owner Al Robdrup since BYO Breweries first opened its doors.

Shortly after, Wolan helped to pave the way for brew-your-own establishments to operate in the province by helping to found the Brew-on-Premise Association of Ontario, which he ran for 12 years. It was renamed the Ontario Fermenters Guild and has since been transformed into the Canadian Craft Winemaker’s As-

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sociation.

Although small independent businesses such as BYO have taken heavy hits over the years, Wolan and Robdrup persevered and developed a large base of loyal clientele and an ever-growing new customer base.

“Being located in the same place and having the same owners for over 24 years is a testament for our facility,” Wolan said. “We pride ourselves on the attention to small details and truly enjoy conversing with all of our customers who, over the years, have become good friends in many cases.”

Up to 4,000 wines are brewed on-site each year, with many more wine kits going out the door for home brewing.

Customers who want to create their favourite wine at the premises need only spend five minutes mixing up the batch.

Four to eight weeks later they return to pour it into bottles.

Wine kits yield about 30 bottles per batch and sell from $100 to $180. All products are 100 per cent guaranteed.

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PAGE 19 ❰

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > DOWNTOWN BRANTFORD BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT AREA

DOWNTOWN BRANTFORD BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT AREA 120 DALHOUSIE STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3T 2J3 519.753.6644 www.downtownbrantford.ca info@downtownbrantford.ca

❱ PAGE 20

he Downtown Brantford Business Improvement Area’s new executive director has witnessed the resurgence of the downtown core.

“I still get goose bumps every time there’s a huge event in Harmony Square because I grew up down here and I remember how dead it was at times,” Annette Wawzonek said.

Today, the downtown core bustles with activity from morning to night, attracting all walks of life to an eclectic mix of businesses, restaurants, entertainment venues and historic attractions.

It is a place for people to meet, to do business, to try a unique food or beverage and to enjoy fun times with family and friends.

“Downtowns have always been called the living rooms of the city, it’s the place where people always come to meet,” Wawzonek said. “We don’t have a lot of those bigger chains. We have the ma and pa kind of thing, the unusual. I don’t think you can get bubble tea anywhere else in the city other than downtown.”

Keeping interest in the downtown alive by marketing and promoting the area and improving the beautification and maintenance of municipally owned land and buildings, is a mandate of the BIA. With an area that stretches from Earl Haig Family Fun Centre, to the Brantford Train Station, to Brant Ave. (but not including Brant Ave.) and a couple of blocks leading up to Alfred St., the BIA represents over 200 businesses and services.

“We try to do our best to promote that overall area as a tourist destination, as a business destination and as a place to own and operate a business,” BIA chairman David Prang said. “One of the

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things that is consistent with business improvement areas is that it is a very dynamic place to do business.”

The BIA advocates for members, serving as a voice on the municipal level and helping to draw attention to issues that affect their day-to-day operations.

“We are a voice at the table in terms of political decisions that may affect their businesses, such as road closures,” Prang said. “It’s also the service of being an additional target marketing voice that is looking out for them as individual business owners.”

BIA membership also gives downtown businesses larger regional marketing initiatives, additional social media channels that support their business, downtown benches, signage, banners and the ability to cross-market and cross-promote with other BIA members.

The BIA’s elected board and executive are voting or advisory members on 12 different sub-committees, including heritage, tourism and economic development, to help the downtown remain viable.

“Downtown is not a static where things aren’t going to change,” Prang said. “It’s a place where things are always changing and it is always going to be an opportunity for businesses, customers and P visitors.”

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > TOPPER’S PIZZA

TOPPER’S PIZZA 39 KING GEORGE RD BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 5K2 519.759.7171 order online www.toppers.ca/brantford

Amazingly Delicious

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

hen you have a hankering for pizza, think fresh.

From the gooey handgrated 100 per cent Canadian cheese, real bacon and traditional slowsimmered Italian tomato sauce to locally sourced vegetables and freshly baked Authentic ItalianBread Crust dough, you can’t get any fresher than Topper’s Pizza.

“It is a superior product,” franchise owner Julia Hunter, who co-owns the business with her husband Dennis, said.

“We had been looking at different franchises for a few years and felt we really wanted to be part of the Topper’s family.”

Topper’s commitment to using only the freshest of ingredients was one of the reasons Julia and Dennis were impressed with the company. The 110-year-old Italian bread crust recipe handed down through the generations by Topper’s founding Toppazzini family was another.

“Mr. Toppazzini first opened a bakery in 1904 and today his two grandsons are still involved in the business,” Julia said.

“The dough is prepared fresh daily and when you eat it, you taste the difference.

“When you want to become a franchise owner it isn’t necessarily, okay here’s a store. They say ‘let’s interview you to see if you are a part of this family.’ It isn’t just a big business that you get swallowed up in. It is still family owned and operated.”

The family-friendly vibe of Topper’s Pizza carries forward at Brantford Topper’s, where staff have become like second family since Julia and Dennis took over the franchise in March.

“Our staff is second to none,” Julia said.

“They really care about the product that they put out. They say, ‘this is somebody’s meal.’”

Drivers are equally committed to their

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job, delivering piping hot pizza to the door in a timely and friendly manner.

“They are our ambassadors at the door,” Dennis said.

The working environment at Topper’s Pizza is fun and friendly, yet professional.

“When it gets crazy on a Friday or Saturday night it helps that (staff) all like each other,” Dennis joked. “We have a wall of heroes at the front of the store where we have pictures of our staff doing things in support of the community, like Men in Heels.”

Topper’s is a strong supporter of Nova Vita and reaches out to other organizations like John Noble Home.

“It’s such a tight-knit community and we really enjoy getting to know people. It is nice to get involved,” Julia said.

Topper’s Pizza offers 24 specialty, four traditional, and build-your-own pizzas with a variety of sauces, cheese, vegetables and meat toppings. Chicken wings, TopperSticks, dips, salads and Topper’s fabulous dessert pizzas are popular sides.

Toppers also provides pizza lunches to 13 local public schools.

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PAGE 21 ❰

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > BROOKS SIGNS

BROOKS SIGNS 500 BRANT COUNTY ROAD 18 BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3T 5M1 519.753.6106 www.brooks-signs.com tony@brooks-signs.com

❱ PAGE 22

erched on the corner of Brant County Rd. 18 and Colborne Street, East, in Cainsville, Brooks Signs has a prominent position in the County of Brant.

For the past 29 years it has been helping other local businesses gain prominence too, with eye-catching signs that not only make a statement, but a long lasting impression on all passersby.

“Businesses want to say ‘we’re here, we’re professional’ and the sign will help drive you into their shop,” Brooks Signs president Tony Henrique said. “You need a marker that really states who you are, that sets you apart from everyone else and gets traffic in the door.”

Henrique was recently named Brantford – Brant Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year.

He purchased Brooks Signs with his wife Angela 17 years ago and started working at the company 26 years ago, when there were only four employees in a 4,000 sq. ft. facility. Sales at the time drew about $300,000 annually.

Today, 19 employees work in an expanded 15,000 sq. ft. facility that brings in about $3,000,000 in sales each year.

Henrique credits that success to quality in design, manufacturing, installation and service exhibited by all members of his staff.

“We work all across the province and we can ship out of province, into the US and internationally,” Henrique said. “We get calls from all over because we were referred by different clients. We have a high hit rate on our web site and we get a lot of phone calls and I attribute that to quality of our product and that comes from quality of staff.”

Brooks Signs has earned nearly one

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dozen awards from Canadian, United States and international sign competitions for its innovative designs. They have helped the company gain a stellar reputation in the industry and it is a reputation that Henrique and his employees endeavour to maintain on a daily basis.

“It doesn’t matter how good you think you are, that can disappear quickly if you don’t stand behind what you do,” Henrique said. “If something is wrong, we stand up and we take care of it in a hurry.”

Keeping up with the latest technology is important for the company, which has seen a significant increase in the turnaround of orders over the years.

“If you call in and have a service or a sales enquiry the first thing we do is go on Google street view if we don’t already have you on file,” Henrique said.

“I already see your location, I have a real good insight so I can talk through that.

Now, within hours rather than days, you have a proposal back to you.”

Henrique gives back to his community through involvement with Brantford Rotary, the county economic development board, and Brantford’s airport board. P

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > BRANT HEARING AID / BRANTFORD AUDIOLOGY CLINIC

BRANT HEARING AID/ BRANTFORD AUDIOLOGY CLINIC 274 KING GEORGE ROAD BRANTFORD ONTARIO 519-759-8250 www.branthearingaidclinic.ca

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

earing loss is the most common physical challenge for people, affecting about 10 per cent of the population, said registered audiologist Gregory Houle of Brant Hearing Aid/Brantford Audiology Clinic.

“About 90 per cent of the time, other than hearing loss, there is no underlying medical cause,” Greg said. “But 10 per cent of the time there is, so anytime a person notices a hearing loss, they should come in and be tested.”

A hearing assessment can determine if a person is experiencing hearing loss, if it is due to a medical issue, or if it is something that can be corrected through hearing aids or assistive hearing devices.

“The most common causes of hearing loss are noise exposure and aging,” Greg said. “Then there’s a certain percentage of people whose hearing loss is hereditary, who were born with a hearing loss.

There are some diseases like measles, mumps and meningitis that can also cause hearing loss.”

Through testing Houle, the owner and Director of Brant Hearing Aid/Brantford Audiology Clinic, can determine what the underlying cause of the hearing loss is.

“Tests tell us the parts of the ear that are affected and then further investigation can be done to diagnose the actual cause.”

Ear infections are a common cause of hearing loss in children but can be treated so that hearing goes back to normal.

“We determine the levels a person can hear certain sounds at and the tests we do tell us what part of the ear is affected, whether it’s a problem with the nerves of hearing, damage to the inner ear, or whether it’s a problem with the middle ear, which is just behind the ear drum

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where fluid and infection occurs,” Greg said.

Initial hearing tests generally take between 30 minutes to 45 minutes, depending on the number of procedures required. People experiencing memory issues or cognitive challenges usually take much longer to assess.

“Hearing loss can actually have cognitive effects,” Houle said. “It can actually enhance issues like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease as well. In some cases what might appear to be a cognitive issue can actually be a hearing issue.”

People should consider getting tested if they notice problems like difficulties hearing a certain noise, difficulties hearing soft voices, have a sudden or rapid change in hearing, or have a family history of hearing loss in early to midadulthood.

Greg has practiced as an audiologist since 1982, graduating from the University of Western Ontario with a Master of Clinical Science degree in Audiology. He also earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Waterloo.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > BRANT MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY

BRANT MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY 20 HOLIDAY DRIVE BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 7J4 519.752.0088 www.brantmutual.com solutions@brantmutual.com

❱ PAGE 24

hen Brant Mutual Insurance Company was initially founded by a group of Paris farmers in 1861 it was meant to be a source of support and comfort when the going got tough.

“We started with a group of farmers who were looking to protect each other,” CEO Jason Cybulski said. “They all pooled in and if someone had a loss, they would all share the loss together. It was very community oriented.”

Today, Brant Mutual Insurance continues to be at the ready to fulfill clients’ insurance needs, offer advice and give them support, just like when it was founded. It also continues a longstanding commitment of community outreach, Cybulski said.

“We have been reaching out to do community work in partnership with the Brant United Way,” he added. “We sponsored the United Way Day of Caring and had a breakfast at our offices for all of the volunteers. Then we went to Brantwood Community Services and did some painting for them.”

The focus on community dates back to Brant Mutual’s 153-year roots. By lending a helping hand whenever possible, Brant Mutual Insurance pays it forward, showing appreciation for the support the community has shown it.

“We’re trying to do little things that maybe mean a lot to non-profit and charitable organizations,” Cybulski said.

“We have a community room on site that we offer to non-profit organizations free of charge. We’re trying to get more involved in that way while at the same time trying to be more progressive here.”

The community aspect of Brant Mutual Insurance extends through to its policy-

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holders, all of whom are part owners of the company with equal voting rights.

“We are 100 per cent Canadian owned,” Cybulski said. “We are not a stock company so we don’t report to shareholders.”

Six directors are elected to the board of Brant Mutual Insurance and they bring new insight and ideas as to how the company operates. Qualifying policyholders are able to run for positions as director.

Over the years Brant Mutual Insurance has morphed into a multi-purpose insurance company, providing coverage for property, farm, commercial, auto and liability policies.

“Things keep changing in our industry and we are constantly re-evaluating to serve our customers’ needs,” Cybulski said. “We are constantly evolving with the times and now with technology like windmills and solar panels, we are constantly adapting to changes. We are trying to educate our agents, our brokers and the public.”

Brant Mutual Insurance Company donated a new Zamboni to the Brant Sports Complex, support the Brantford Red Sox, the Canadian Cancer Society and the MS Society.

“The community supports us so it’s important to us to support the community,” Cybulski said. “Knowing you have your P roots here, you want to stay.”

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > CLAWSIE KITCHENS

CLAWSIE KITCHENS 34 DALKEITH DRIVE, UNIT 1-2 BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3P 1N6 519.756.8720 www.clawsiekitchens.com info@clawsiekitchens.com

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

lawsie Kitchens is experiencing a rebirth of sorts after surviving an uncertain market and the sudden passing of former owner Michael Clawsie.

“Since Mike’s passing in 2012 we have persevered through some uncertain times,” current owner John Clawsie, Michael’s brother, said. “But we had our busiest January and February in 24 years this year.”

With a new logo and a new website, Clawsie Kitchens is branding itself as a progressive company while still maintaining roots solidly planted in its family history. Incorporated in 1991 by John’s parents Jack and Josephine Clawsie, Clawsie Kitchens has helped many homeowners design their dream rooms.

It has also gained a solid reputation for quality in product and service with new home builds, apartment and condominium developments.

“We do largely new home designs with about 90 per cent of builders in the area working with us,” John said. “With us having such a large share of the market it shows that the longevity of our company has earned us trust. We’ve been dealing with many of the same customers for 20 years.”

Retail customers also return to Clawsie Kitchens because they know that the business will be there if a problem occurs in the future. Clawsie recently did repair work on a kitchen installed 18 years ago.

“People have peace-of-mind knowing that we are still going to be around,” John said. “We are one of the few constants in the industry and are the area’s oldest and largest kitchen design company.”

Two designers and four installers are

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currently on staff and Clawsie anticipates that more hires will be made in the upcoming months. A dedicated customer service representative is also on staff so designers can focus strictly on designing.

“We have younger staff now that stay up with the current trends so we can help people design some of the most leading edge kitchens on the market today,” John said.

Clawsie Kitchens’ expertise extends far beyond the kitchen. Designers can customize garage cabinets, laundry rooms, bathrooms, ensuites, mudrooms and dens.

“We can do anything from a couple hundred dollar plus cabinets in a garage to $100,000 plus in a kitchen design,” John said.

Clawsie Kitchens has received many awards from industry peers, including being recognized by an American supplier as being the biggest and best customer in all of Canada. It also has longstanding relationships with many Canadian suppliers of Canadian-made products.

“We’ve built a lot of relationships over the past 20 years,” John said. “Because of that we also get the benefit of finding out from our suppliers what is happening in other markets and what we should try here.”

Clawsie Kitchens prides itself with offering some of the greenest products on the market in addition to providing high tech services like 3D computer designs.

Lifetime warranties on hinges and drawer slides and lifetime limited warranties on P select cabinet lines are also offered.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > QUALITY INN & SUITES BRANTFORD

Quality inn & SuiteS Brantford 664 Colborne Street brAntForD ontArIo n3S 3P8 519.758.9999 www.choicehotels.ca

❱ PAGE 26

hen a major overhaul of brantford’s Quality Inn & Suites is complete, guests will find it more like home.

It won’t be “just another place where they rest their head,” says ravi Aurora.

Aurora, along with his father Vince and brothers Shawn and nick officially took ownership of the hotel on June 1st of this year, but already big changes are in the works. the pet friendly Colborne Street landmark will continue to be a one-stop shop for weddings and special occasions, regular poker tournaments and karaoke, but business guests will find a host of new state of the art features. the hotel’s business centre will offer Skype video calling, a state-of-the-art projector and the ability to host technically integrated tutorials. there will also be a new “marketplace breakfast centre and special meeting pods,” says Aurora. Guests can also continue to enjoy a swim in the indoor heated pool or a workout in the exercise room. the upgrade and expansion will include a revamp of the front lobby, each and every room, and the corridors. the banquet facility will also be enlarged and work is planned for the outside of the building as well.

With brantford boasting “tournament Capital” status, sporting events such as hockey tournaments and swim meets bring in a majority of guests to the Quality Inn & Suites. Along with ideal accessibility to such events, guests can take advantage of sports and hospitality rates. “there’s always something going on in brantford,” says Aurora.

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even a good number of those attending the recent Friday the 13th biker bash in nearby Port Dover found their way to brantford’s Quality Inn and Suites. He says they also cater to prom-goers and an Arcade geared for teens will also be added to the hotel during renovations.

Aurora says work on the approximately $2 million project is expected to start this September and be complete by March of 2015. A section at a time will be completed and the hotel will remain open during the work.

Upgrades to Addison’s restaurant will follow once work on the hotel is complete. the restaurant renovation is expected to take two to three months. the revamping will draw more volume and as a result there will be more exciting employment opportunities.

“It will be something brantford’s never seen before,” says Aurora.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > ADDISON’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

Addison`s RestAuRAnt And Lounge 664 Colborne Street eaSt brantForD ontarIo n3r 2r7 519.758.9999 www.facebook.com/pages/ addisons-restaurant-and-lounge

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

atrons at addison`s restaurant and lounge kept telling new owner ravi aurora to “try the steak sandwich!

“I only tried it after five or six people raved about it and it`s fantastic,” says aurora. ravi aurora, along with his father Vince and brothers Shawn and nick, officially took ownership of addison’s in the Quality Inn & Suites on Colborne Street east on June 1st. both the hotel and the restaurant are in for a major renovation and expansion starting this fall. addison’s, already a popular haunt for food lovers, is also home to Monday and Wednesday night poker nights hosted

by Jungle Poker. that will continue along with the Karaoke sessions on Friday nights. Pool leagues are also hosted at addison’s. the restaurant is scheduled for renovation following a major facelift set to start on the hotel this September. addison’s will also now be open seven days a week and will feature Sunday brunch.

“We’ll also be trying out some new items - more interesting bar food,” says aurora. new drinks, different types of poutine, and “fusion” foods, will be added to the menu. Fusion foods involve mixing two or more ideas into one recipe. the “family” menu will also be a highlight.

Meantime, if you love chicken wings, $6.99 per pound Wing night will continue. the meaty wings come in a huge variety of flavours including the usual mild, medium and hot as well as garlic, medium buffalo, hot buffalo, lemon pepper, sweet chili thai, Cajun, bbQ and plain.

Domestic pints of beer are also on sale

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Wednesdays and thursdays. Friday night fish and chips also “continue to be a big draw,” says aurora. addison’s is also a convenient source for catering, including the events on location at the Quality Inn and Suites. the hotel’s banquet hall can accommodate 300 guests. renovations to the restaurant are expected to take two to three months following the major hotel renovation and expansion. Patrons will see a “huge change” at addison’s restaurant and lounge, says aurora.

He says addison’s will be “fresh and new.

“It will be an experience you won’t get to try at any other restaurant.”

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > LUCENTE LEGAL

LUCENTE LEGAL APPEALS, MEDIATION 45 DALKEITH DR. UNIT#4 BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3P 1M1 226.387.3248 www.lucentelegal.ca clucente@lucentelegal.ca

❱ PAGE 28

Two years after hanging out her own shingle as Lucente Legal, Carmen Lucente’s paralegal and mediation service is already looking to expand.

“The practice has been doing very well,” Lucente said. “Starting off was a bit slow but in no time, thanks to referrals from the community and from clients’ friends and family, the Brantford practice has grown.”

After more than 25 years of working as a bilingual paralegal and a paralegal manager for the Ontario Ministry of Labour and Ministry of the Attorney General, Lucente left the commute to Toronto behind to start a practice in Brantford.

It was a move that has proven to fill a void in the area and, judging by the overwhelming response, Lucente’s extensive knowledge of the industry is proving to be getting great results for her clients.

“In my view, a good measure of success is knowing your clients are referring their friends to you. I am inspired to hear repeatedly that my help has relieved them of the stress created from dealing with the complicated legal system,” she said.

“When you have been working for workers as long as I have, you know their interests; it’s not just getting the compensation they are entitled to, it’s getting this compensation quickly and being available and responsive to them.

I believe this principle has been largely responsible for my success.”

The number of cases coming into Lucente Legal has led Lucente to go back to her roots and focus on what she feels is her true calling.

“At first, I was accepting clients in all legal matters, but my practice has naturally evolved into primarily employment and

labour issues, including WSIB, Canada Pension, Employment Standards and Human Rights,” Lucente said.

She hasn’t removed herself entirely from all Small Claims Court claims, but rather limits that area of her practice to document preparation and coaching so clients can pursue or defend their claim in a more affordable manner.

Lucente is also certified with the Alternate Dispute Resolution Institute of Ontario. As a certified mediator, she is called upon to mediate disputes such as harassment or bullying in the workplace before these issues escalate.

“The upcoming Lucente Legal expansion will allow me the time to return to more involvement in this area,” she said.

Clients can look forward to learning more about the Lucente Legal expansion in the coming months.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > JOEY’S RESTAURANTS

JOEY’S RESTAURANT 15 - 410 FAIRVIEW DRIVE BRANTFORD ONTARIO 519.750.0333

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

oyal customers at Joey’s Restaurant in Brantford have become so much like family that they call in if they aren’t going to make their weekly visit.

“It’s the first place I ever worked where the customers call in sick,” owner Suzie Harrott joked.

Suzie, who celebrated her second year of ownership at Joey’s on July 7, said the family-style atmosphere at the restaurant makes coming to work feel more like coming home.

It appears many customers feel the same way.

“We know what day someone is coming in and we worry when they don’t show up,” Suzie said. “Even customers notice when another customer doesn’t come in. With one customer, when he was in hospital for seven weeks, his wife would come in and get him takeout to bring to the hospital.”

Suzie and her employees know many of their regular customers by name and always offer a warm welcome to new faces.

The warm and inviting atmosphere at the 410 Fairview Dr. location is one of many reasons Joey’s Restaurant is so popular.

The varied menu that runs the gamut from fish and ribs to pasta and steak is another.

Whether people are seafood lovers or landlubbers, Joey’s Restaurant can easily appease all taste preferences and includes lighter choices for health conscious consumers.

“Everything we make here is high quality and fresh,” Suzie said. “We prepare everything the way you want it.”

Tasty fish selections that range from haddock, cod, halibut, Lake Erie perch and salmon are prepared to order, either

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blackened, Cajun, poached, deep-fried, pan-seared, charbroiled or sautéed.

People on a gluten-free diet can also ask to have their fish prepared with rice flour.

Slow-cooked St. Louis style ribs, chicken tenders and prime rib eye steak are paired with choices of two sides such as fries, coleslaw, spring mix salad, Caesar salad, rice pilaf, garlic red skin mashed potatoes or fresh seasonal vegetables.

Joey’s combo – two pieces of Joey’s famous fish and Pacific breaded shrimp with a choice of two sides – is one of the most popular meals on the menu, alongside Joey’s delicious fish tacos.

Children are equally thrilled with Joey’s kids menu that offers a choice of five entrees like mini cheeseburgers, corn dogs and fish, a choice of sides ranging from fries and carrots with dip, to salad and fruit cups, a choice of desserts that includes ice cream sundaes and chocolate chip cookies and a choice of drinks.

School groups and retirement homes are invited to call in advance to place large orders for lunch that can be picked up or delivered.

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PAGE 29 ❰

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > WATCHA WANNA WEAR

WHATCHA WANNA WEAR 174 BRANT AVENUE BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3T 3H9 519.758.8205 www.customlogoproducts.com info@customlogoproducts.com

❱ PAGE 30

well-designed logo that sets a business apart through brand recognition is a company’s biggest asset. So it makes sense to have that logo proudly displayed as often as possible.

Founded in 1990 by George Markovich, Brantford’s Whatcha Wanna Wear Custom Logo Products takes logos well beyond traditional letterheads and business cards. People can wear a logo on their head, strap it to their wrist, write with it, keep dry with it and even listen with it.

That’s because Whatcha Wanna Wear offers tens of thousands of options when it comes to keeping businesses in the public eye in unique and trendy ways.

From high quality, designer style fashions that run the gamut from jackets, hoodies, ball caps, toques and golf shirts to awards, corporate gifts, USB sticks, headphones, speakers, drink ware, pens, watches and bags, Whatcha Wanna Wear can easily access promotional products that are a perfect fit for each and every customer.

“You name it, if it can be imprinted on, we can do it,” Markovich’s daughter Jill Snyder, who is co-owner in charge of daily operations, said. “We will work closely with our clients to come up with innovative ideas and solutions to make their projects and events as successful and profitable as possible.”

The client base at Whatcha Wanna Wear is equally diverse, ranging from corporate clients and associations, to large industry, healthcare, local schools and sports organizations, including the Brantford 99ers.

Complete customer satisfaction is a must for staff, who help clients with

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events like trade shows, golf tournaments, anniversaries, reunions, product launches, safety award recognitions and camps. Clients can choose from the many products on display in the sample showroom and office at 174 Brant Ave. When a client’s order is complete, there won’t be any last minute surprises, they will receive exactly what they paid for, and pay exactly what they expected.

That commitment to customer care is one of the reasons Whatcha Wanna Wear grew and diversified over the years while embracing the many changes in technology and product to keep the business abreast of growing trends.

Many clients have been with the business for several years and Markovich credits that to the attention to detail he and his staff strive for.

“People are satisfied with what they are getting in terms of both product and service so that’s why they keep coming back,” Snyder said. “We also get a lot of referrals because we make sure our customers are satisfied and, most importantly, get what they want and for the best price.”

And with 24 years experience in the business, Whatcha Wanna Wear, is able to secure preferred pricing from suppliers so that savings can be passed down to customers.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS > NANCY TOMKINS AND ASSOCIATES IMPLANT & DENTURE CLINIC

NANCY TOMKINS AND ASSOCIATES IMPLANT & DENTURE CLINIC

47 CHARING CROSS STREET BRANTFORD ONTARIO N3R 2H4 519.754.4746 www.denturesbynancy.com

2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

or licensed denturist Nancy Tomkins, no price can be placed on the value of a smile because a smile says so much.

When Tomkins sees a patient smile it says: I have my self-confidence back, I have restored my dignity and sense of self-esteem.

Most importantly it says: I am happy!

“Dentures fill a space and give you a smile but there is so much more involved, such as a link to nutrition and digestion,” Tomkins said. “Oral health links to the body’s physiological systems, to a persons’ general health and wellbeing.”

For the past 26 years local residents have entrusted their smiles to the warm and caring attitudes of Tomkins and her team at Nancy Tomkins and Associates Implant & Denture Clinic.

Through referrals and word-of-mouth Tomkins’ clinic has grown to service a wide variety of patients from throughout Southwestern Ontario, many of whom refer their friends and family.

Much of her success is due to the relationships built with patients over the years. With Tomkins, a relationship doesn’t end after dentures and implants have been placed.

“It’s all about the after-care,” Tomkins said. “It has been, in my experience, that unless people have moved away or passed on, rare is it that a relationship doesn’t continue for many years or decades. There needs to be re-care of the denture because things change over time in everyone’s mouths.

“I’ve gotten to know about my patients’ children, their grandchildren and their great-grandchildren. We talk about our dogs, golf, curling and good novels we have read.”

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Such relationships have enriched Tomkins’ life.

“I have been blessed with some amazingly interesting people. They have shared their life travels with me, their wisdom and I feel very privileged to have them entrust me with their care,” she said.

Relationships are also formed with other dental and health care providers so Tomkins’ patients are provided with a whole body approach to health care.

Patients range in age from 11-years-old to 102. No matter what the age, they choose to improve their oral health so they can enjoy life to the fullest.

And enjoying life is a mantra of sorts at Nancy Tomkins and Associates.

“Humour is certainly something that the whole office team exhibits,” Tomkins said with a grin. “I have an amazingly dedicated team that is very positive and upbeat and that puts people at ease.

They say they feel valued by the warm welcome and relaxed because we love to laugh and sing.”

In 2011 denturist Cliff Muzylowsky joined Tomkins’ team and his kind and compassionate manner is a perfect fit for the clinic. He and his wife Linda have embraced Brantford as their home, which is where Tomkins was born and raised.

“Brantford and the local area, to me, is such a generous community, it is a compassionate community,” Tomkins said. “With my experience with Brant United Way and other boards, when I see what the community achieves by working together, I am in awe.”

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Celebrates Success Celebrates Success Celebrates Celebrates Success Success Jim Kew Jim Kew Boston Design Mfg. Ltd. Jim Kew 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Jim Kew Boston Design Mfg. Ltd. Jim Kew 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO Boston Design Mfg.BRANTFORD/BRANT Ltd. Jim Kew Boston Design Mfg. Ltd. 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Boston Design Mfg. Ltd. Jim Kew 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Boston Design Mfg. Ltd.

Boston DesignTO Mfg.BRANTFORD/BRANT Ltd. 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT 25 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

Colleen Miller Edward Derus E.D. Towing & Recovery Colleen Miller Edward Derus Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc. E.D. Towing & Recovery Colleen Edward Derus 20 YEARS Miller CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Colleen Miller Edward Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc. E.D. Towing &Derus Recovery Colleen Miller Edward 20 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc. E.D. Towing &Derus Recovery Colleen Miller Edward Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc. E.D. Towing &Derus Recovery 20 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc. E.D. Towing &Derus Recovery Colleen Miller Edward 20 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web Design RPM Control Company Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web Design RPM Control Company Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard 15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web Design RPM Control Company 15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web Design RPM Control Company Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web RPM Control Company 15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TODesign BRANTFORD/BRANT Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web RPM Control Company 15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TODesign BRANTFORD/BRANT Brett Ramey Dave Shields Brent Howard

Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc.

Colleen E. Miller Enterprises Inc. E.D. Towing & Recovery 20 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TODesign BRANTFORD/BRANT Brett’s Hair Design Dave Shields Web RPM Control Company

20 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT 20 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

Meredith Ireland Essential Under Things Meredith Ireland Essential Under Things Meredith Ireland Meredith Ireland Essential Under Things Meredith Ireland Essential Under Things Meredith Ireland Essential Under Things Essential Under Things Meredith Ireland Essential Under Things

Nancy Panasiuk Nancy Panasiuk Forks of the Grand Personal Chef Nancy Panasiuk Nancy Panasiuk Forks of the Grand Personal Chef Nancy Panasiuk Forks of the Grand Personal Chef Nancy Panasiuk Forks of the Grand Personal Chef Forks of the Grand Personal Chef Nancy Panasiuk Forks of the Grand Personal Chef

Forks of the Grand Personal Chef

15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT 15 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

Randy Doucette Shawn P. Stemmler Stemmler Small Business Solutions Ltd. Randy Doucette Shawn P. Stemmler Randy Doucette Custom Knives Stemmler Small Business Solutions Ltd. RandyCONTRIBUTING Doucette Shawn P. Stemmler 10YEARS TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Randy Doucette Shawn Stemmler Randy Doucette Custom Knives Stemmler SmallP. Business Solutions Ltd. Randy Doucette Shawn Stemmler 10YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Randy Doucette Custom Knives Stemmler SmallP. Business Solutions Ltd. Randy Doucette Shawn Stemmler Randy Doucette Custom Knives Stemmler SmallP. Business Solutions Ltd. 10YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Randy Doucette Custom Knives Stemmler Small Business Solutions Ltd. RandyCONTRIBUTING Doucette Shawn P. Stemmler 10YEARS TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Randy Doucette Custom Knives

Randy Doucette Custom Knives Stemmler Small Business Solutions Ltd. 10YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT 10YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT 10YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

Chris Tolhurst Chris Tolhurst Tolhurst Power Tool Repair Chris Tolhurst ChrisPower Tolhurst Tolhurst Tool Repair ChrisPower Tolhurst Tolhurst Tool Repair ChrisPower Tolhurst Tolhurst Tool Repair Tolhurst Power Tool Repair Chris Tolhurst Tolhurst Power Tool Repair

Tolhurst Power Tool Repair

Debbie Bowen Deb’s Threads & Designs Debbie Bowen Deb’s Threads & Designs Debbie Bowen Debbie Deb’s ThreadsBowen & Designs Debbie Deb’s ThreadsBowen & Designs Debbie Deb’s ThreadsBowen & Designs Deb’s Threads & Designs Debbie Bowen Deb’s Threads & Designs

Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn Crystal’s Hair Care Jayde Mechanical Inc. Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn Crystal’s Hair Care Jayde Mechanical Inc. Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn Crystal’s Hair Care Jayde Mechanical Inc. Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Crystal’s Hair Care Jayde Mechanical Inc. Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn Crystal’s Hair Care Jayde Mechanical Inc. 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Crystal’s Hair Care Jayde Mechanical Inc. Crystal Miller Trevor J. Finn 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT

Business Loans Business Services 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Business Loans Business Services 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Loans Business Services •Business Reasonable rates •Business Business Consulting 5 YEARS CONTRIBUTING TO BRANTFORD/BRANT Business Loans Services •Business Reasonable rates • Business Consulting Loans Business Services •Business Flexible terms • Business Seminars Loans Business Services •• Reasonable rates •• Business Consulting Flexible terms Seminars Reasonable rates Business Consulting Business Loans Business Services space available •• Loans for students & existing businesses • Equipment/meeting Reasonable rates Business Seminars Consulting Flexible terms • Business Crystal’s Hair Care

•• Reasonable rates & existing businesses Loans forterms students •• Flexible Reasonable rates & existing businesses Flexible terms Loans for students •• Flexible terms Loans for students & existing businesses • Flexible terms • Loans Loans for for students students & & existing existing businesses businesses • Loans for students & existing businesses

Jayde Mechanical Inc.

•• Business Consulting Equipment/meeting space available Seminars •• Business Business Consulting Seminars Equipment/meeting available •• Business Seminars space Equipment/meeting available • Business Seminars space Equipment/meeting space • Equipment/meeting space available available • Equipment/meeting space available

www.enterprisebrant.com www.enterprisebrant.com www.enterprisebrant.com Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636 www.enterprisebrant.com www.enterprisebrant.com Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636 www.enterprisebrant.com Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636 www.enterprisebrant.com Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636 Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636 Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636 Enterprise Brant, 330 West St. Unit 10, Brantford ON N3R 7V5 • 519-752-4636