Spring 2014 - Top Choice Magazine

Minding Everyone’s Business™

Spring 2014 | Vol. 08 | No. 01 www.TopChoiceMagazine.com | $4.99 CAN

Jimmy

Kimmel TOP LATE NIGHT TV SHOW OF 2014 Funny Man Jimmy Kimmel Laughs His Way to the Top – Page 36 Photo by Matthias Clamer

YOU PUT THE HOURS IN, WE’LL HELP YOU TAKE THEM OUT

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FEATURES

Top Late Night TV Show of 2014!

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Funny Man Jimmy Kimmel Laughs His Way to the Top

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40

50

CHRISTOPHER PFAFF

TOP CHOICE AWARDS GALA

CELEBRITY QUOTES

THE MAN BEHIND PFAFF LEASING

2013 IS THE BEST YEAR YET FOR TOP CHOICE!

ON WINNING TOP CHOICE AWARDS

10 LIVING

BUSINESS

36 ENTERTAINMENT

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58 FINANCE & LEGAL

24 AUTOMOTIVE

62 EDUCATION

28 FOOD & DRINK

66 PROFILES

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

MARKETING

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIVING

Top Choice Magazine

10 If You Don't Like Where You Are Change It

Top Choice Magazine is dedicated to showcasing excellence. It features businesses, business professionals, entertainers, and media that are recognized with awards. Top Choice Magazine is produced by Top Choice Media Group Inc. The magazine is published 4 times a year and is a reliable guide to the top products and services in your community!

12 Fitness & Motivation 14 What's Your Passion?

16 Excelling in Excellence 64 Sorry, Son... There's No App for That

BUSINESS 18 Overbuilding Your Business Website 20 A Speech of a Lifetime 22 Businesses Are Becoming 'Top Choice Certified'

AUTOMOTIVE 24 Best Used Car Dealership of Toronto 2013 26 Christopher Pfaff

FOOD & DRINK 28 Cook Fast & Eat Slow!

30 Il Postino Ristorante 32 Dinner Time is Family Time 34 Grand Opening of Tokaji Wine Boutique 44 A Few Wonderful Mexican Recipes 46 Portugal's Finest 48 Get Hooked on Sushi

ENTERTAINMENT 36 Top Late Night TV Show of 2014!

40 Top Choice Awards Gala 50 Celebrities on Winning Top Choice Awards

More than 50,000 copies are distributed throughout Top businesses and professionals in Canada, the magazine works like a promotional tool to the participants.

Readership is estimated at more than 300,000 per issue.

Advertising Inquirers Only award-winning, reputable or recognized businesses, entertainers, media providers, and business professionals are promoted in Top Choice Magazine.

If you would like to advertise, call us at (416) 662-2123 or send an email to info@TopChoiceMagazine.com.

Media kits are available in print and digital format.

Copyright notice The content and photographs in this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction in any form, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Contact us Top Choice Magazine 160 Applewood Cres., Unit 24 Vaughan, ON L4K 4H2 Canada

info@TopChoiceMagazine.com Tel. 905 761 1980 www.topchoicemagazine.com

56 The Power of the Image

FOLLOW US

FINANCE & LEGAL 58 Bergel, Magence LLP 60 Starting New

EDUCATION 62 An Academy Offering More Than Education

PROFILES 66 Stacy Da Silvia

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MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

David Silvestre Publisher

Managing Editor Monica Couto Art Director Tessa Rola Accountant Executive ITA Accounting Editor Marco Luccisano Sabrina Cugliari Sales Manager Fay Xuan Art Designer Tessa Rola Graphic Designer Michael Fillier Photographers Sam Santos George Pimentel Maggie Habieda Writers Francesca Filippelli Sabrina Cugliari Monica Couto David Silvestre Marco Luccisano Dyvine Silvestre Business Review Specialists Sandy Caetano Francesca Filippelli Britney Rodriguez

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Hello everyone, Finally, the good weather has arrived and, after a long cold winter, nothing feels better than enjoying a good read on a patio with a refreshing beverage in hand.

IN THIS IS S UE , W E

will be providing you with pages full of motivation and inspiration that will encourage you to keep on pressing on, and maintain that entrepeneur smile that can sometimes be the hardest thing to do.

Just read IBX’s business story and I bet a few smiles will come to your face, or take a look through the pages and find where you will have an unforgettable dinner with that special someone; whatever you may be looking for, we bet that we have a Top Choice for you.

After presenting awards t o n a m e s l i ke , O p r a h Winfrey, Ivanka Trump, Dana White, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, we gained a unique insight to their secrets and we learned they are exactly like every other Top Choice Award winner.

They share the same flame; the same passion.

In Canada, the Top Choice Award is the business award with the most followers on Twitter, most likes on Facebook, and most viewers on youtube, thats why our slogan says The Award that’s SocialTM we ask, we listen, we reply!

To p C h o i c e Aw a r d recipients become part of that social wave and clearly enjoy the benefits of an accolade that makes them

instant local celebrities in their field of work.

What makes a garden stand out is having multiple flowers and what makes a business stand out is having multiple awards; But different flowers bring different odors; different awards different results!

I would like to take this opportunity to clarify the fact that this magazine does not present awards. In fact, it is a product of an independent survey produced

by Top Choice Awards, an International Marketing Research Company, that provides social market insights and customer satisfaction analysis and solutions; Top Choice Awards does not operate like any of the following: • Readers Choice Awards; (where winners are decided by newspapers or magazine readers) • Chambers of Commerce Choice Awards (winners are decided by their own panel of judges) • Other business excellence awards (that employ surveying companies to secretly come up with surveys results);

To p C h o i c e Aw a r d winners are voted transparently by the customers or people that some how heard about or have been involved with a business or professional that produces excellent services or products in their city. You will find Top Choice Awards’ surveys in your mailbox, e-mail, on social media, via phone and in person at community events. Top Choice Awards engages with the public and business owners by offering them prizes while gaining internal information about the products and services in their area.

The Top Choice Magazine is a simple vehicle to promote award winning business, and that is what makes this magazine special. Only reputable businesses are printed and promoted here.

Top Regards,

David Silvestre, Publisher

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

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LIVING

If You Don't Like Where You Are Change It "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein Sabrina Cugliari HUMANS ARE INTERESTING CREATURES. We’re all so unique and different, however, there are many patterns. One common pattern is that we tend to resist change. I recently came across an article that discussed the issue of letting go and why it is so difficult for us to do so. When it comes to certain situations, you may give yourself an endless list of reasons why you don’t want to accept change. Perhaps you’re comfortable or you fear the unknown. Perhaps you’re content in the situation, even though you may feel deep down that you could be happier in a different one. Whatever the logic behind it may be, our collective fear of change only serves one purpose: to limit us.

In the article mentioned above, one particular line stood out to me. It asked, “we throw out milk past it’s expiration date, so why do we remain in unhealthy situations?” How many times have you let yourself remain rooted in the same patterns even though you knew they were not beneficial? It has become the norm to just accept certain things because it’s easier than taking a risk. That’s exactly what change is. It’s a risk. You alter certain aspects of your life and hope that they will pay off. We take the risk and hope for

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a reward. If you do take these chances and make the change, you’ll tend to notice that the reward is much greater than we could have imagined.

At any moment in your life, you can change everything about it. No situation is hopeless, no scenario permanent. If life is not turning out how you imagined it would, make a change. Our irrational fear of change has dominated society for too long, making us far too compliant. Last week, we focused on passion and finding something to live for. This week, we focus on changing our thinking in regards to change. There’s a tongue twister.

When you’re feeling afraid of making a change, ask yourself how we can expect to make our lives better if we are not willing to make the changes necessary.

Like the quote above, we cannot expect to do the same thing over and over and get different results.

Start this week off by embracing change. Teach yourself that change is a positive and not meant to be feared. If you are not happy with any aspect of your life, the only thing to do is embrace change. While it may be difficult, rest assured that it is necessary. Take the risk!

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LIVING SECTION

Fitness & Motivation "The individual who says it is not possible should move out of the way of those doing it." - Tricia Cunningham Sabrina Cugliari A LOT OF THE TIMES, WE NEED TO REMIND

ourselves what we’re capable of. The possibilities are endless. Often times, we blame our failures and setbacks on things that really have no influence on our success. We blame bad luck or timing and reassure ourselves that there was nothing more that could be done. We become complacent in believing that “it is what it is”. However, any successful person knows this logic is wrong. More often than not, our attitude and our drive is directly related to our success and achievements.

It has been said over and over that ‘what we think, we become’. You may notice this in your daily life. Perhaps you’ve had a particularly hectic morning and arrive at work in a bad mood. It may seem like instead of getting better, your day progressively gets worse. But it’s our attitude that causes this, not some unknowable, unalterable circumstance. For this reason, the above quote is one you should make a point of remembering. Anything is possible and those who believe that it’s not are only selling themselves short.

It’s a few months into 2014 and I want to take this opportunity to check in and see how everyone is doing with their New Year’s Resolutions. Have you managed

to stay on track and succeed? Or have the resolutions already been forgotten as you focus on other aspects of your life. I bring this up because I imagine there is one resolution that is quite popular and may have been forgotten; living a healthy lifestyle.

Many people make a conscious effort to try and take care of their health, mentally and physically. However, the reality is that it can be difficult. Sometimes it can feel that there are not enough hours in a day and it can be exhausting and also tiring to dedicate yourself to a new routine regardless of how good the benefits are. We want you to use this quote above to remind yourself that anything is possible in all aspects of life. Whether you’re trying to get a new promotion at work or you’re trying ignore dessert because you’re sticking to a diet.

Our health is one of our greatest gifts in life and it is up to us to maintain it. While it may be a struggle to stick to your goals and plans, remember that all the motivation you need resides within yourself.

Start your days off by reminding yourself that you are capable of so much and the only thing in your way is your attitude. Starting each day with a positive mentality and a determined mindset will help you achieve excellence!

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LIVING

What's Your Passion?

"If you haven’t found something worth dying for, then you haven’t found something worth living for." - Unknown Sabrina Cugliari WHAT’S YOUR PASSION? WHAT MOTIVATES

you to get up in the morning and start the day with an eager and hungry desire? Far too many of us merely traverse through life without really taking advantage of all it has to offer. How many times have you heard someone say carpe diem.

Seize the day! Everyday presents a new opportunity to be a better person, to be successful and most of all to be happy.

You may have seen the above quote in dozens of different ways, but what does it really mean?

To simplify it, we’d like to pose this question: are you living life to the fullest? While it may seem like we’re quizzing you, this is not a test. If you were unable to think of an answer for the questions above, perhaps you haven’t found your true passion. Of course everyone has things that they enjoy, but what would you be willing to do anything for? Perhaps it’s your family or your career.

The bottom line is that a life worth living will be filled with passion.

So how do we become more passionate about our lives? How do we find something worth dying for, that will make life worth living?

Determination and desire are two defining factors when it comes to living life to the fullest.

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Waking up each day and telling yourself that regardless of what life throws at you, you will take it in stride and overcome it. When we live life to the fullest, we embrace each moment and know that each day is truly a gift.

If you take a moment to think of your heroes, the people that you respect the most, you will realize that these people are important to you because of their values and characteristics. Last month, the world lost a great leader and advocate in the passing of Nelson Mandela. A man who truly embodies the quote above. Although trials and tribulations were thrown his way, he embraced his passions and lived life fully. We are not meant to be idle, merely going through the motions of each day. Find something that ignites a spark inside of you. Do what you’ve always wanted to do. As the first month of a brand new year winds to a close, make a promise to yourself to find something worth dying for - so you can start living.

Start this week off by reminding yourself that life is not meant to be half-lived. We should not be spectators in the world, but rather active participants. If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten. Accept and relish each moment! Carpe Diem!

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LIVING

Excelling in Excellence Are You The Best You Can Be? Sabrina Cugliari ARISTOTLE, ONE OF THE MOST RENOWNED AND

studied Greek philosophers, once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” We often see people around us achieving great things and attaining success, yet we often attribute it to other factors. Perhaps we believe the person to simply be lucky, being in the right place at the right time.

Perhaps we believe it is their destiny, and not our own, to live out their dreams. However, this type of negative thinking only serves to further us from our goals.

This type of negative thinking also does not give credit where credit is due. Many people realize quite quickly that life is not always easy, fair or pleasant. Sometimes it requires hard work, sleepless nights, dedication and determination. Those people who we believe to be “lucky” or “destined” did one thing and one thing only to achieve excellence; they worked for it.

From a young age we are encouraged to excel. We strive to get good grades. This in turn will help us further our post-secondary education, allowing us to have

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more options. Post-secondary education is essentially meant to help us in our career choice. A degree or certificate is meant to hasten the process of landing our dream jobs. Once our dream jobs are secured, the work only continues as we must strive to remain excellent in the workplace. The quality of our work and the effort we put in must be consistent. Excellence never stops. This is the attitude that successful people have adopted. They know that once you reach your goal, it does not mean that you must stop working.

Perhaps you have noticed that those who are considered successful are not complacent beings who spend their weekends at home in sweatpants. They are the movers, the go-getters, the thinkers. This is what Aristotle meant in his quote. Excellence is not something that we are born with, rather something we must work to achieve. And while the work may at times feel impossible and the urge to give up may often be present, the end result is well worth the effort!

Unfortunately, it’s human nature to look for the easy way out. Our current society has become flooded with quick fixes. Technology allows us to do almost anything at the touch of the button while social media allows ideas to be shared faster than ever. The current state of our culture has begun to cripple our habit of excellence.

Just as many of us are quick to take the easy way out, we are quick to point the finger at other people for our shortcomings. You may make yourself feel better after an unsuccessful job interview by reassuring yourself that the interviewer was simply not a nice person.

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You may tell yourself that there was nothing you could have done differently and that you gave it your best shot. It would be upsetting to think that perhaps you weren’t as qualified as other applicants or that you may not have been the right fit for the company. When you reassure yourself that you’ve given something your best shot, it becomes easier to deal with failure.

But are you really giving it your best shot? Before heading to bed for the night, think of your day. Think of what you accomplished and what you still have left to do and ask yourself, were you the best you could be? While many of us may not want to admit it, the answer is often a no. There is always room for improvement; always an opportunity to succeed. It is imperative not to let the patterns of our laidback society have too much of an effect on us. There is no room to become lazy.

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One area where excellence matters most to us is in our professional lives. We spend our whole lives chasing our dreams, trying to land the career that will enable us to sustain the kind of lifestyle we want. At Top Choice, we recognize success and the hard work and achievements of individuals and businesses. But the success that we recognize is not an unattainable one. It is not a success reserved for the lucky ones. There is no magic behind it; no secret that you haven’t been let in on. It can be achieved by anyone if they are willing to work for it. Being recognized as a “Top Choice” means that an individual/business has persevered and refused to give up. They have taken their career and made it their passion. They have taken excellence and made it a habit. So tonight before heading to bed, ask yourself again, are you being the best you can be? Have you made excellence a habit in your life?

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BUSINESS

Overbuilding Your Business Website Less features. More effectiveness. Simpify your website to help turn more visitors into customers.

Michael Fillier I UNDERSTAND THE URGE. THE URGE TO TRY AND

create the world’s most exciting website. It will have photos, videos, a blog, social media integration, a newsletter and so on and so forth. There was a time when having all the bells and whistles was not only desirable, but expected. That time is over.

The way we access the web has changed drastically. We now access websites through many different devices and with that new territory comes new expectations. We expect websites to load quickly, to work properly on the device we are using and to make it easy for us to find what we’re looking for.

There are 3 important factors to a successful website: • Speed • Functionality • Usability Many business owners just don’t have enough of an understanding about the way people use the internet in general, so they treat their website like any other business purchase and try to get “more bang for their buck”. So questions like, “Would you like a blog?” become an immediate “yes” without considering the effort required to maintain it. The thought process must go something like this. “People read blogs.

Blogs are enjoyable. We definitely need a blog!” Now, I am sure there are businesses out there whose blogs are contributing to their success. But, for most small

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businesses the blog is just a lonely place, filled with aging posts that actually make their business look stale.

This is just one of many examples of features that are added to sites needlessly. Features that could be excluded and help people focus on the information about your business.

One common way to overbuild a typical small business website is to implement a Content Management System, CMS for short. A CMS is designed to make it easy to edit the content on your site. But, most clients I have seen implement a system like this spend more time dealing with the systems limitations than they spend editing content. Here’s the kicker, in many cases the site’s content is never edited! Not once, not even a bit. This is just plain wasteful.

At Top Choice Media, we went back to the drawing board. We re-evaluated what really matters. Today we only deliver exactly what the client’s website needs

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to succeed and nothing more. Sites are designed, built and deployed in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost. By keeping things simple, we can ensure that the 3 keys to their website’s success are the priority.

Simple and boring do not go hand-in-hand. In fact, when you forego a systematic approach to building a site you have more freedom in regards to the look and feel. The results are unique and personal.

When it comes to your website a little planning and clear goals will go a long way. It might sound complicated, but you would be surprised how even simple goals can help lead to big success. Really give thought to the features of your site, if you are considering a blog, who will actually post the content, how often and what will they post? If the web developer is implementing a CMS, will you or your staff require training?

Be realistic about the time investment, if you don’t feel you can commit 100%, then drop it.

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Every now and again take a look at your current site and see what is working. Website analytics tools, like Google Analytics, can really help you discover the pages that your potential customers go to first and on what page they actually leave your site. This information can help you know what people are interested in.

Today’s web is more different than ever. If your site is more than a couple years old, it might be a good time to consider a fresh start. If you have a website in the works, make sure you demand speed, mobile functionality and usability.

The bottom line is, the average small business website doesn’t get thousands of hits a day. Which makes simplicity an important part to ensuring that every one of these precious visitors is left with a good impression of the business and have all the information they need to take the next step.

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BUSINESS MOTIVATION

A Speech of a Lifetime You Only Know How Strong You Are When Being Strong is Your Only Option Ivi Xhelili & Bersi Xhelili IS EVERYONE HAVING A GOOD TIME? GREAT! THAT’S

our main goal this evening. Before I go any further, I just want to acknowledge and thank, each and everyone of you, for joining us in this Gala Celebration tonight. We are honoured, to be in this position, to be able to celebrate you. Thanks to our great staff for their talent and hard work. A big thank you to all our clients. We wouldn’t be here tonight without your trust.

We are proud that IBX has become the largest Environmental Restoration Company in the GTA and now - because of Hurricane Sandy - we have another branch in New York City. So please join me in a big round of applause to all of our mutual success.

When I look back over the past 15 years I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming. We’ve

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come a long way since arriving in Canada from Albania in 1999. Did we do it absolutely alone? Absolutely not.

Imagine two teenagers - starting out in a new country without being able to speak a word of English, very little money, and nowhere to live. Kids with nothing but the will to put a roof over their heads, food in their bellies and the vision to lead a rewarding life. Those two teenagers were Ivi and me. Really, when I think back, I realize we really were just kids. But we knew, one thing for sure, we needed to get on our feet and move forward with our new lives. But what do you do when you have no place to live and no money to get a place and feed yourselves?

So we ended up staying in Covenant House for three months, for those of you that don’t know, Covenant House Toronto is Canada’s largest homeless youth

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We needed to get on our feet and move forward with our new lives. But what do you do when you have no place to live and no money to get a place and feed yourselves? agency. Their mission is to give a hand up to kids help them get on their feet and on with their lives. Anyway, I finally got a job as a dishwasher. Ivi’s job was much more glamourous, he was a busboy. We had some pretty rough patches you can be sure. Like answering an ad in the paper that said we could make up to $4000 a month... investment required.

We answered the ad, met the guy who told us all about his business and what we needed to do to work for him. So we took a loan for $12,000 to buy his carpet cleaning machine. Now we were ready to go! We were all set for the work to pour in, the problem was we never heard from the company again. To make matters worse we discovered that the machine was only worth $1,700. To add insult to injury now we had a debt to pay off.

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We decided to put our overpriced machine to work.

So we started our own carpet cleaning Company. We grew from one crew, Ivi and me; and grew the business to 10 crews. Then we started getting called for water damage, which quickly grew to be our primary service.

The rest as they say is history.

So why am I telling you all this? Because Ivi and me believe in giving back to the people, to the organizations and country that welcomed us. So this event my friends is for you! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your trust, your business and friendship.

Now I’d like to invite you to help us thank Convenient House for all they did for us and all they do for others.

We are committed to raising so much needed funds to help Covenant House Toronto, help the homeless teenagers wandering our GTA streets today.

Spring 2014

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BUSINESS

Businesses are becoming 'Top Choice Certified' Through an Undercover Shopper Program Sabrina Cugliari AS A CUSTOMER OR GENERAL CONSUMER, WE ALL have, at some point, had a bad experience with a certain product or service. That’s why business awards like the Top Choice Award were created to identify and promote business and professionals that raise the bar of excellence and use their passion as daily fuel to beat their competition.

But after a decade of surveying the general public and business owners, the CEO and president of Top Choice Awards realized that the popular vote can bring a business to the Top showcasing trust and loyalty, but is not enough to ensure a business will maintain this status; we also realized that more importantly than beating their competition, an award winning business must focus on beating it self.

“Our experience has taught us that in order to remain on top, a business owner must understand their business from the inside out and not ignore important facts such as the fact that it costs 5 to 7 times more to gain a new client than to maintain a regular one; or ignore what his/hers employees are feeling at work” says David Silvestre Top Choice Awards CEO. “We’ve created a research marketing tool that enables business owners to view their own business from a customers perspective and from the “staff perspective”. This program is known internally as, “The Top Choice Undercover Shopper Program” and has been marketed as “ Top Choice Certified”.

Whether you run a successful business, or you are experiencing lower profits than usual, the Undercover Shopper Program is for you” says Monica Couto President of Top Choice Awards As everyone one knows the “mystery shopper idea” has been used and, too frequently, abused by many companies around the world, so what makes the Top Choice Undercover Shopper Program so different?

Timing. Timing is what makes our program so unique.

We were able to utilise today’s technology at everyone's favor and gain insight and results faster than ever that will help the business owner maintain or redirect its business and business staff to improve their ability to serve their clients.

What is the difference between a business that won Top Choice Award and a business that becomes Top Choice

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Certified ? The results. The final results are the ultimate difference between the both titles.

A Top Choice Award winner is crowned by its customers, who were encouraged to voice their choices and opinions in a survey. The results of said survey are used to guide consumers in making Top Choices in order to save them time and money.

Here we are able to see the relationship between a business and a customer.

A Top Choice Certified business involves an internal survey completed in person by one of our Top Choice business review specialists, as a first hand customer looking for areas that may require attention to actually maintain or improve a business. The results of that survey are used to guiding the business staff to make better choices when dealing with clients and the overall business ethics that they represent. Here we are able to see the relationship between a business owner and his/her second family; the employees.

After meeting and interviewing the people responsible for the Top Choice Awards, it’s definitely impressive, to say the least, that they could create another useful tool that would be even more beneficial to clients. When you come across a company that already provides a public service that helps consumers make great choices and motivates business owners, it seems hard to go above and beyond that. I would imagine that this is another marketing tool we often see used just so the company could generate extra revenue in their field. But above and beyond is almost too modest a term and I was wrong - something that they loved to prove!

Just like Canada’s Best Managed Companies Award, or Canada’s Top 100 Employers Award - both very well respected programs aiming to recognise companies that offer exceptional workplaces for their employees and companies that know how to retain top talent and clients within their company - the Top Choice Certified Program intends to head in that same direction.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Not many people enjoy being wrong, however, this experience made me happy I was. With the many benefits and rewards waiting to be reaped, the Top Choice Certified program is sure to be beneficial to any business regardless of specific fields.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Make your business 'Top Choice Certified' through an 'Undercover Shopper Program'

The 'Undercover Shopper Program' is made up of an educated 'Top Choice Business Review Specialist' anonymously visiting your business as a customer and gathering information from his/her experience.

The survey results that are gathered through this program are then used to gain a further understanding on how you can improve your customers' experience. If your business exceeds the requirements and receives good feedback from our 'Undercover Shopper' that's when your business becomes 'Top Choice Certified'.

Businesses, participate today and receive a FREE online review.

905-761-1980 www.topchoicemagazine.com/get-reviewed

AUTOMOTIVE

Best Used Car Dealership of Toronto 2013 Best of Both Worlds: High Quality Vehicles & Excellent Customer Service Sabrina Cugliari PURCHASING A CAR IS THE SECOND BIGGEST

investment a person makes in their life aside from purchasing real estate. It’s a memorable event! And for this reason, you need to find an automotive retailer or dealership that you can place your trust in. This is where AUTORAMA comes in. Nasser Rad, President of AUTORAMA has made customer satisfaction his number one priority. As recipient’s of the Top Choice Award for Best Used Car Dealership of Toronto in 2013, it’s clear to see that he has been successful in achieving his goal!

The secret behind this success can be attributed to the three focal points at the core of AUTORAMA; quality of their vehicles, finance services and customer service. Special focus on these aspects enables the business to run like a well-oiled machine, leaving customer’s satisfied which is the ultimate goal. Proudly serving the community for over 14 years, AUTORAMA offers high quality pre-owned vehicles and wide range of financing solutions to meet their customers' criteria. The customers are their priority, the cars are their passion and matching customers with the perfect vehicle is their mission. In a constantly changing market, AUTORAMA remains on top with courteous and professional staff members and a transparent, full disclosure approach that keeps customers returning.

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CarProof History Reports are available for each vehicle and claims are fully disclosed. By being transparent they are able to build credibility and provide their consumers' with peace of mind.

They showcase their hand-picked inventory in a 40,000 sf indoor showroom and their vehicle truly speak for themselves. They extremely organized and the atmosphere is as enjoyable as their customer service. When it comes to used car, AUTORAMA is one of top brands in GTA. AUTORAMA, establishes a longterm relationship with their customers by offering unforgettable retail experience that results in making customers for life. Loyalty and word-of-mouth recommendations are responsible for the company’s stellar reputation which has only grown stronger, demonstrating the confidence and trust customer’s place in the business.

AUTORAMA offers custom in-house financing services based on each individual needs. They do this by spending time understanding their customer's situation and tailoring a financial solution to suit their unique requirements. They offer services to both prime and non prime customers and work with most of major lenders and financial institutions. Their dedicated finance team makes the buying process simple and convenient by providing flexible payments, great rates & rapid application processing.

If customer has bad credit, has experienced a bankruptcy, is new to the country or has no credit, their finance specialists arrange the financing for the vehicle of their interest while helping them re-establish their credit. They make the car Loan dream a reality. Nasser Rad states,"2014 started on a positive note. We see a lot of opportunities ahead of us so we keep our eyes on the stars and our feet on the ground".

416.739.7262

•

1205 Finch Ave. W

•

www.autorama.ca

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Keeping the super in supercar

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AUTOMOTIVE

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 Christopher Pfaff, President and CEO of Pfaff Automotive

Christopher Pfaff The Man behind Pfaff Leasing Sabrina Cugliari IN THE 1950S, CHRISTOPHER PFAFF’S FATHER

emigrated from Germany and began working at a Volkswagen dealership. In 1964, he opened his own dealership in the hopes of having more control over the customer’s service experience. In 2014, Christopher Pfaff is the President and CEO of Pfaff Automotive Partners continuing his father’s legacy and sharing his passion for all things automotive with the world. In the 50 years since the first dealership opened it’s doors, Pfaff Automotive has grown to represent 6 automotive brands selling a variety of new cars throughout the GTA, London and Vancouver. With 10 locations to accommodate customers, Pfaff is a force to be reckoned with in the automotive industry.

Being awarded Canada’s Best Managed award for the past three consecutive years, it’s no secret that Pfaff Automotive has experienced overwhelming success. Christopher’s vision and passion helps make this massive success possible. Having made his first sale at the young age of eight, Christopher knew where his passion would lie. Selling a Volkswagen Beetle to his school teacher marked the beginning of an upward adventure. With a new Audi location open in Newmarket, Christopher and the employees at Pfaff Automotive plan to spread their vision even further.

Jon Fraser, General Manager of H.J. Pfaff Motors Inc also remains an important part of the business.

Christopher explains that in an industry that’s evolving and getting more sophisticated there is a definite reliance on the GMs to maintain customer relations and employee relations. The ever changing brand standards and processes that are put in place make it imperative to remain on the ball in such a competitive market. Taking his place in the Pfaff family as a Sales Manager six years ago, Jon gained the titled of GM 3 years ago and continues to work to keep excellence synonymous with the Pfaff name.

The new Audi dealership focuses on the single brand, which Christopher explains, enables

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employees to be more in tune with the product they’re selling. It can become difficult to represent a variety of brands when there is so much product and technological information. The advantage of these multiple locations across the GTA and Ontario is that it not only allows customers to have access to a vast inventory, but it allows the Pfaff brand to constantly improve by sharing ideas and marketing strategies. It offers a dose of healthy competition among the Pfaff group that ultimately results in increased customer expectation.

Customer satisfaction is key and knowing how to reach your customer is half the battle. At Pfaff Automotive, they understand that client’s can get busy.

By remaining conscious of the market and continuing to grow with it, Pfaff has put an emphasis on digital marketing, in efforts to make customer experience even better. With a Facebook and Twitter page and a Pfaff app that enables clients to schedule maintenance, view inventory and browse promotions, the business has become even more accessible to customers. Jon estimates that as much as 80-85% of clients book automotive service and maintenance online.

A willingness to grow with the market and a conscious effort to leave customers satisfied has helped Christopher and Pfaff Automotive remain on top! By attracting the right employees and keeping them in the group, the business continues to thrive. Various locations are able to offer timely service and a greater capacity to help customers get the best experience they can. No strangers to excellence, Pfaff Automotive is the answer to your top automotive needs.

PFAFF AUTOMOTIVE PARTNERS

OVER 11 LOCATIONS IN THE GTA • WWW.PFAFFAUTO.COM

Spring 2014

2

FOOD & DRINK

Cook Fast & Eat Slow!

Cherish your time and your meal Monica Couto Directions

THE MOMENT YOU WAKE UP YOU BEGIN

to think of what you should eat, and how quickly you can put something together.

Many of us rush through the day, there doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day…and when we finally have time to grab a bite to eat, we gobble it down. So I tend to cherish it, as my peers and I eat our meals away, I begin to notice that I’m always the last to finish eating.

These are 5 of my personal reasons why you should slow down: • Better digestion • Less stress • Feeling good • Actually tasting the food Time is indeed precious, so I have a wonderful recipe for you to cook quickly, leaving you enough time to enjoy your meal nice and slow.

Ingredients to a great

1.

family dinner Salmon A'la Monica 2.

2 colves of garlic, minced – 6 tablespoons of olive oil – 1 teaspoon of sea salt – 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper – 1 tablespoon of lemon juice – 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped – 2 (6oz) salmon fillets

3.

4.

In a medium glass bowl, prepare marinade by mixing garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice and parsley. Place salmon fillets in a medium glass baking dish, and cover with the marinade.

Marinate in the refrigerator about 1 hour, turning occasionally (Optional).

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Place fillets in aluminum foil, cover with marinade, and seal. Place sealed salmon in the glass dish, and bake 20 to 25 minutes, until easily flaked with a fork, your preference!

You may accompany this dish with Baked Potatoes, and a Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Eating is the most enjoyable part of my day and now it can be yours too! Bon Appétit! :)

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Spring 2014

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FOOD & DRINK

Il Postino Ristorante Non c'è passione più bella dell'amore per la buona cucina Sabrina Cugliari WHAT MAKES A RESTAURANT GREAT IN

your eyes? Is it the pricing? The quality of food? The location? Perhaps a truly great restaurant incorporates all of the above and does it well. That much can be said about Il Postino Ristorante. Located on Main Street in Unionville, Ontario, Il Postino is the perfect combination of everything you look for in your favourite eatery. Whether you’re looking to have an intimate dinner or for a place to host a function for up to 40 people, Il Postino can accommodate your needs.

Specializing in seasonal cooking with large Italian influence, the food isn’t the only thing that will be grabbing your

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attention. Located in a spacious, historic home, the restaurant’s atmosphere promises to be just as enjoyable as the delicacies it serves. Operating with its current owners and team for just a few years, Il Postino has already solidified itself as a restaurant to watch. The kitchen and front end are overseen and managed by two brothers, keeping family values close at hand. Able to host any kind of event, Il Postino prides itself on being unique, making for a memorable dining experience.

Each menu item is unique to the restaurant and ingredients are all sourced with one goal in mind - to attain the best quality.

It’s not enough for a restaurant to have only one or two strong points - it’s clear that the whole recipe must come together if you want to achieve success. Perhaps one of the most exciting characteristic of the restaurant is it’s pride and focus on creative presentation. It is a truly delightful experience when a dish not only looks exquisite, but tastes exquisite as well. Thanks to this passion, unique creativity and never ending effort that is put into each dish, it’s simple to see just how and why Il Postino has garnered a successful reputation - a reputation that it will likely maintain for years to come!

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Lunch Monday - Friday 12pm - 2:30pm

Dinner Monday - Saturday 5:00 - 9:30pm

186 Main St. Unionville, ON L3R 2G9

905.940.1555 info@ilpostinoristorante.com www.ilpostinoristorante.com

The Delicious Portugese Experience $20 Family Special Whole Chicken 1 Medium Rice 1 Medium Potatoes Famous Piri Piri Sauce

Mississauga 90 Dundas St. E 905.270.5060

Maple 9781 Jane St. 905.832.8030

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Dinner Time is Family Time Monica Couto MODERN LIFE HAS BECOME VERY

demanding upon the new generation and its slowly working its way to the Top. We are currently involved in so many projects we feel are important that we are forgetting the biggest project in our lives: Our Family.

I am outraged by families who eat their dinner with their plate in hand watching TV. Dinner with the family is so important. Its on that exact moment, when we sit down for dinner, that we take time to listen to each other. Its on that moment that I open my eyes to things that are happening in the lives of my children and my loved ones. Its at that very moment that I discover news.That's when I open my heart to know them better.

There are so many problems in families that could be avoided or resolved if the members of these families could just listen. Families where children are constantly growing, a united dinner becomes increasingly difficult, but creating good habits from when they are small is key. Bring your kids together, get them a bit more involved in the kitchen, perhaps they may start off by simply washing the

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vegetables or chopping them up. This creates a sense of unity and accomplishment. Give it a try, and see their reaction.

Directions

1.

Ingredients to a great

family dinner Chicken Breast Wrapped in Bacon 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts – 100g firm goat's cheese, such as Crottin de Chavignol – 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, plus 2-3 sprigs – 4 rashers of streaky bacon, thinly sliced – 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced – 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

2.

3.

Heat oven to 375°F. Split the chicken breasts almost in half from one long side and open them out like a book.

Hit them out a little with a rolling pin to flatten them. Season on all sides.

Put half the goat's cheese on each piece of chicken and sprinkle with the thyme leaves. Fold the chicken over to enclose the cheese, and then wrap each chicken breast with one or two slices of the streaky bacon.

Lightly oil a shallow gratin dish, then arrange overlapping rows of zucchhini and tomatoes over the base. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper and thyme sprigs. Sit the chicken on top.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until the bacon is crisp and golden and the zucchini’s are tender. Serve straight from the dish with new potatoes or good bread.

Serving Suggestion: Dish up with steamed Asparagus and brown rice.

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FOOD & DRINK

Left to Right: Zsigmond Balla - Tokaji USA President, Sandor Balla - Tokaji Canada President, Michael Di Biase - Regional Councillor Dr. Stefania Szabo - Consul General Hungary, Zoltan Szabo - Sommelier - Toronto, Attila Balla - Vinum Tokaji International President

Grand Opening of Tokaji Wine Boutique A first of it’s kind in North America Sabrina Cugliari A LOT OF ASPECTS IN OUR DAILY LIVES

become part of a routine, so it’s natural that we look for that certain something to break out of the monotony. Tokaji Wine Boutique will help you do exactly that! A first of it’s kind in North America, Tokaji Wine Boutique has taken the finest wines of Hungary, coupled them with exquisite cuisine and has successfully created a unique, exciting concept that is sure to break the routine. Conveniently located at Weston Road and Hwy 7, in the heart of Vaughan, Tokaji Wine Boutique provides a much needed change from the typical restaurant and bar scene.

We at Top Choice had the privilege of attending and participating in the Grand Opening of Tokaji in December. Greeted by friendly smiles and European warmth, we were immediately welcomed. While the aroma of fine wines filled the air, local business owners and patrons came together for

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what promised - and succeeded - in being an excellent night to network, mingle and experience the best of what Hungary has to offer.

When the concept was first brought to our attention, we were unsure exactly what all the fuss was about. Many restaurants boast about having the best, authentic meals and atmosphere. We quickly realized that the hype surrounding Tokaji was well deserved.

Hungarian food and wine has been influential for centuries. Hungary is a region which has been catering to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family from early on. At Tokaji, the richness of the region is brought right to your table. Hungarian delicacies coupled with the most complimentary wine for each specific dish provide a truly fine dining experience while incorporating authentic Hungarian culture and practices

- a point on which Tokaji Wine Boutique truly prides themselves on. The first wine boutique and eatery of it’s kind in North America, Tokaji allows you to enjoy a sitdown gourmet dinner with great wine. As if that wasn’t appealing enough, patrons are also able to purchase their favourite bottles of wine and enjoy it in the comfort of their home.

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, which included Mrs. Stefánia Szabó, Consul General of the Consulate of Hungary in Toronto, Dr. Ödön Király, Trade Commissioner of Hungary in Toronto, Gino Rosati, Deputy Mayor, Michael DeBiase, Regional Councillor and Tokaji owner, Sándor Balla, it was time to start enjoying the fine dining and learn why certain wines were to be enjoyed with certain dishes. Both a knowledgeable and delectable experience. Treated like royalty from the moment we entered Tokaji Wine Boutique’s Doors, the friendly atmosphere only further strengthened the enjoyable dining experience.

Full of great moments, great food, great wine and great people, the Grand Opening was an evening to remember. We can’t wait to come back and keep exploring the Tokaji Wine Boutique!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr.Sándor Balla for his invitation and wish him and his team Top success!

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TOKAJI WINE BOUTIQUE IS HOME TO THE FINEST WINES IN THE WORLD. WE BRING THE RICHNESS OF THE REGION RIGHT TO YOUR TABLE.

EAT. DRINK. LIVE.

7887 WESTON RD. VAUGHAN, ON L4L 1A6 • 905.851.7877 • WWW.TOKAJI.CA

ENTERTAINMENT

Photo by Matthias Clamer

Top Late Night TV Show of 2014!

Funny Man Jimmy Kimmel Laughs His Way to the Top Sabrina Cugliari

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www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

AFTER A LONG DAY AT WORK, ONE OF

the few things we find recluse in is the idea of coming home, flopping on the couch and turning on the television. With hundreds of programs suitable to anyone, television is a special treat that lets us escape from our often hectic daily lives, if only for a few hours. Whether we’re lost in a movie or frantically awaiting the conclusion of our favourite TV show, we become attached to characters and personalities. And while this may seem like an ad for televisions, rest assured, it’s not. No one needs to be reminded just how great it is to have a variety of shows, movies, sports games and news reports available at our fingertips. What this is meant to do is to remind you just how many options are available to everyone and the competition TV programs and personalities face when they’re in the running to be the best of the best.

In the land of late night television, there are many competing to be the best. Names like Johnny Carson and Jay Leno are among

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the kings of their craft. Their programs provide entertainment and comedy, letting us see a more intimate side of actors through one on one interviews. They often allow us to enjoy concerts in the privacy of our own living room, often featuring popular live bands nightly. With so many people vying for the top spot, it’s obviously no easy feat. Different time slots, different networks and different hosts all contribute to who the people believe to be the best in the biz. There was no doubt about who Canadians thought was the best; Jimmy Kimmel is the recipient of 2014’s “Top Late Night TV Show in Canada” award!

Perhaps one of the funniest and clearly most loved late night hosts on television, Jimmy Kimmel found his way into our hearts through his program, Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Making it’s debut in 2003, the show entered its twelfth season this year. With his hilarious segments, often unbelievable pranks and hoaxes and his informative, yet comedic interviews with guests, he quickly

showed the world that he was a definite competitor in the late night game alongside other hosts such as Conan O’Brien, David Letterman and the other big names.

Recently, Jimmy Kimmel was involved in a “Twitter feud” with rapper Kanye West that sent social media into a frenzy. The feud resulted in West’s much anticipated and highly publicized appearance on the show; an interview that continues to be discussed and parodied in the entertainment culture. Another running segment unique to Kimmel’s show is Celebrities Read Mean Tweets wherein Kimmel has celebrity guests read tweets that are often rude or offensive about themselves. The result is a gut-busting compilation of oneliners and the celebrity’s reaction. It’s in these moments of hilarity that we are able to see why Jimmy Kimmel has become so wildly successful. Both his program and his personality have made him a prominent figure in today’s culture and society, garnering attention from critics and fans alike.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Kimmel has accomplished much more than many people will in a lifetime being a prominent figure in stand-up comedy, film, television and radio.

In early March, Jimmy Kimmel played host to Canada’s very own Rob Ford, Mayor of Toronto. After flying him out to Los Angeles and personally picking up Mayor Ford at the airport, Kimmel interviewed the mayor who has seemed to have achieved celebrity status both in Canada and around the world. While opinions on the interview (and the mayor) vary, there is one thing that can be safely said and it’s that aside from the jokes and the laughs, Ford’s appearance on Kimmel’s show pushed both Toronto and Canadians further into the global spectrum. Kimmel showed all of us some Canadian love, drawing attention to Toronto and the great things the city, and country has to offer! And when it was our turn to show some love, Canadians didn’t let Kimmel down.

Thousands of voters headed to topchoiceawards.com and took time out of their busy schedule to complete our survey. The results were overwhelming. Jimmy Kimmel Live! was voted as the Top Late Night TV Show of 2014 and the reasoning behind the people’s choice is clear! At 46

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 Jimmy Kimmel shows his love for Canadians once again by wiping Rob Ford's nerves away

years old, Kimmel has accomplished much more than many people will in a lifetime being a prominent figure in stand-up comedy, film, television and radio. His show has been nominated for a variety of awards over the years including People’s Choice Award for Favorite Late Night TV Host and Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Talk Show. His guests include a wide range of A-List celebrities that result in stellar interviews thanks to Kimmel’s easygoing nature and charm. His frequent habit of poking fun at guests is not frowned upon, but rather encouraged as he reminds people that it’s okay to laugh at yourself every once in awhile.

An undeniable presence both on television and in social media via Twitter and Facebook, Jimmy Kimmel has proven himself as a top contender in the realm of late night hosts. His successful television show is only the tip of the iceberg! With many more guests to interview, hoaxes to play and laughs to give, it doesn’t seem like Kimmel will be disappearing anytime soon.

And we’re okay with that!

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You' l l just love it!

For 8 years, Vinsanto has built a reputation in Vaughan for delicious meals, guaranteed satisfaction and most importantly, fantasric ser vice.

From Hello to Goodbye, we will leave a great taste in your mouth.

Top Italian Restaurant

Vaughan 2013 Visanto Ristorante • 28 Roytec Road • 905.264.3991 • visanto.ca

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ENTERTAINMENT

Top Choice Awards Gala Top Choice is proud to call 2013 the best year yet!

Sabrina Cugliari AT TOP CHOICE, WE’RE ALL ABOUT

promoting the best of the best. We recognize excellence, drive, passion, ambition and success. We asked you to vote for the businesses around both the GTA and across Canada that epitomize these characteristics - and you delivered! The winners came together at our 8th Annual Top Choice

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Awards for a night of congratulations and shared success! The result was an evening filled with enjoyment, laughter, and inspiration - a result that was only made possible thanks to you all!

On Friday November 15, 2013, we honored over 30 award winners at the gala and Top Choice is proud to call 2013 the best year yet!

As recipients arrived at the Fermenting Cellar, located in Toronto’s historic Distillery District, the air was immediately charged with excitement. The cool ambiance coupled with business owners from all over Canada set the tone for a fantastic event - and we were not disappointed.

Whether guests were enjoying a glass of

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On Friday November 15, 2013, we honored over 30 award winners at the gala and Top Choice is proud to call 2013 the best yet!

 Fermenting Cellar: The beautiful venue located in Toronto's historic Distilery District  Champagne Fairies: greeted and poured guests glasses of sparkling as they entered the venue

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champagne poured by our very own acrobatic “Champagne Fairies” or sampling sushi as an hors d’oeuvre off a woman’s body, from the moment guests entered the venue, the fun began. Dr. Marc DuPéré from Visage Clinic was the recipient of the 2013 Top Plastic Surgery Clinic in Toronto and shared his thoughts with us at Top Choice as a first year attendee. The event did not disappoint and our sushi display on a nearly nude model - proved to be a hit once again! “She is lovely - she told me she was cold,” Dr. DuPéré jokes, “but I thought it was a great idea.”

Mike Strobel, award-winning journalist from the Toronto Sun and recipient of the 2013 Top Newspaper Journalist/Columnist in Toronto attended the Top Choice Awards this year for the second time.

Similarly to many other guests, Mike was struck by the venue’s atmosphere. “I think it’s one of the nicest - there’s a number of these things around - but this is one of the nicest I’ve been to. I think it’s the setting.

It’s a lot funkier than previous venues. It’s a lot more interesting - warmer.” As guests munched on tasty treats and mingled with

one another, the warmth only continued to grow throughout the night.

Accompanying a delectable dinner, the awards presentation began. With presenters including Scott Fox from Z1035, Jonathan Kobler from ILAC and Top Choice’s very own David Silvestre and Monica Couto, the ceremony was filled with laughter and excitement.

Entertainment was provided by an array of talented individuals including young singer Alessia, who wowed the crowd with her powerful vocals. Guests were also treated to the sights and sounds of a traditional Chinese Lion Dance, the talented Dr. Draw, violinist, and the exotic Samba Brazilian dancers. Stage band Shugga kept the crowd tapping their feet, providing the amazing soundtrack for the evening.

And as the Top Choice recipients took to the stage to accept their awards, one particular sentiment appeared repeatedly.

Passion and ambition result in success.

In a room full of people who have been recognized for being the best among competition, these two characteristics were found in abundance.

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ENTERTAINMENT

"I think the best part about the Top Choice Awards is that it brings business owners that have been sucessful together in one room – and these people deserve to be honored."

Recipient of the 2013 Award for Top Radio Personality - Male in Toronto and attending for his 6th year, Scott Fox truly expressed the core goal of the Top Choice Awards. “I think the best part about the Top Choice Awards is that it brings business owners that have been successful and taken a risk to create that business and employ people all together in one room and these people deserve to be honored. They’ve obviously excelled in their fields and it’s nice to see everyone being honored in that way.” His statement could not be truer. The recipients of the 2013 Awards do deserve to be honored and Top Choice is happy to do just that! Aside from honouring, we hope to motivate. We hope to inspire winners to continue to strive and achieve

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 Left to Right: Marlon John Francesca Filippelli Monica Couto Stacy Da Silva and David Silvestre

excellence, while encouraging nominees to continue to pursue goals and dreams.

At Top Choice we recognize that achieving success doesn’t always come easy. There may be struggle, disappointment and sacrifice. However, we also recognize one important thing - achieving success is worth the trials and tribulations!

We want to thank each and every one of you, from the bottom of our hearts, for making 2013 another overwhelmingly successful year.

It would not have been possible without all of you. We urge everyone to continue turning their dreams into a reality, their failures into lessons and their ambitions into achievements. Thank you for making the 2013 Top Choice Awards an unforgettable evening. See you all next year!

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

1

2

5

3

4

7

6

1. Tropicana Queens brought the Brazilian heat to the dance floor 2. Statue Alive's display of the Top Choice Award brand 3. CP24 - Co-host, Steve Anthony - winner of the 2013 Top Television Personality 4. Alive sushi platter catered by Ginza Sushi 5. Z103.5 Co-host Scott Fox bringing his personality through the award once again 6. Lion Dance offering guests with a traditional Asian performance straight to their tables 7. Electrifying performance by Dr. Draw

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Spring 2014

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FOOD & DRINK

A Few Wonderful Mexican Recipes How to Bring a True Mexican Experience to the Table Barbara Zuniga MEXICAN CUISINE HAS MANY FANS THE

world over and this distinct style of cooking continues to win hearts with its incredible flavors. Mexican cooking most appeals to those who love spicy, hot or tangy flavor.

Here we take a sneak peak into some brilliant recipes of Mexican favorites.

A Mexican spread isn’t complete without a Margarita. The lime Margarita in specific, is the best method to kick start a Mexican dining. The drink is a blend of premium tequila with lime and Triple sec.

Blend these ingredients together and you’ll have a perfect cocktail that’ll appeal to all.

You could add to the drinker's appeal by garnishing it with fresh lemon wedges.

Mexican food also consists of spicy and saucy appetizers and preparing them isn’t as complicated as it might seem. Put together a few tortillas and meat and add fried bean and cheese to it. Top it off with spicy salsa sauce and your authentic Mexican starter is geared up to be offered. You can additionally experiment with the ingredients according to your tastes and preferences.

The Mango salsa is another great Mexican food import that you definitely must try. Here’s a recipe of the same with a twist. Use tomato and cilantro as base along with pieces of mango and add a mix of chilies, onions, seasoning and tomato to it. The tropical flavor of the ingredients

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along with spicy seasoning makes this a yummy dish.

Another brilliant cool Mexican recipe is the Guacamole. This 1 may not be a complete dish in itself however it serves as the ideal topping to many dishes. It is used as a dip and serves as the flawless chip topper. Guacamole makes use of avocado and is a chunky blend. In addition to avocado, it also makes use of lime juice and cilantro that provide it the great flavor.

Roasted salsa is one of the oldest yet the hottest Mexican recipes. No Mexican fiesta may be complete without this typical dish.

Roasted tomatoes and onions clubbed with oodles of chillies are the secret ingredients of this age old recipe. The smoky flavor of this recipe makes it the superb add-on to any Mexican dish. Should you wish to augment the spicy quotient, you can think about adding a bit of jalapeno to this recipe.

The Tequila twist is still an additional Mexican staple that’s gained global recognition. This heady cocktail is a lighter and breezier version of the intense usual tequila. This mixture is made of a combination of orange and strawberry juices with premium tequila and has a fruity but strong flavor. Garnish it with ripe strawberry as a finishing touch.

Dish up these quick recipes and you are certain to serve a Mexican pleasure to your friends and family.

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“THE MOST JAW DROPPING BEAUTIFUL MEXICAN RESTAURANT EVER TO OPEN IN THE CITY” – GLOBE AND MAIL

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FOOD & DRINK

Portugal's Finest A Guide to some of Portugal’s most Delicious Foods Gareth Hoyle ONE OF THE BEST THINGS ABOUT TAKING

holidays to Portugal is the opportunity to sample some of the delicious local cuisine of this diverse country. Portuguese food has its own rich palette of flavours that are definitely worth a try during your holidays to Portugal.

The traditional cuisine of Portugal is full of rich and full-flavoured dishes that have their origins in Mediterranean-style cooking. The twist is that Portuguese chefs use a generous amount of spices, such as the small and hot chilli peppers known as "piri piri" and other spices like cinnamon, vanilla, and saffron.

Tasty and Simple Fresh Fish Because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the traditional cuisine of Portugal is very much focused on fish and seafood. Most of the fish dishes in Portugal evolved as simple and hearty working fisherman's fare, and so they are very unpretentious and filling. Fish is served in many different ways, including grilled, boiled, fried, stewed and even roasted.

Bacalhau, or cod, is the type of fish most consumed in Portugal. Dried and salted cod is popular and originated back in the days before refrigeration. Other Portuguese seafood favourites include sardines, octopus, squid, cuttlefish, crabs, lobster and prawns.

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Luxurious Meat and Poultry Dishes During the middle ages in Portugal, only the upper class could afford to eat meat and poultry, so dishes including these meats were considered prestigious and luxurious.

Nowadays, however, tasty meat dishes are available from any restaurant menu and visitors can enjoy dishes such as Cozido a Portuguesa which is a stew made from beef, pork, and smoked sausages with seasonal vegetables such as cabbage, carrots and potatoes and Alcatra (Rump Steak) which is beef marinated in red wine and garlic and then roasted.

Other Treats • Cheese – Portuguese cheeses are often made from goat's or sheep's milk and are very strongly flavoured and fragrant.

• Vegetables – Popular vegetables in Portuguese cooking include tomatoes, onions and cabbage, and vegetable soups are common.

• Wine – Portugal is also well known for its wine production and it is the birthplace of the rich and sweet dessert wine known as "Port".

During your holidays to Portugal, keep your mind open and always be ready to try a local dish, and you might discover something truly wonderful that will make you want to come back for more!

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FOOD & DRINK

Get Hooked on Sushi How to Make Delicious Sushi Eric Westman LIKE SASHIMI, SUSHI IS ALSO A POPULAR

Japanese delicacy which attracts everyone with its delicious taste. Sushi bars are famous for delicious sushi varieties which are prepared using expert sushi chefs. Due to its delicacy, people have started to make sushi in their home to surprise everyone with their magical cooking formula. Sushi is made of many ingredients like sushi fish, Japanese rice wine, dark green dried kelp, dashi konbu, sushi vinegar and more but sushi rice is the common ingredient in all the sushi varieties.

If you are planning to prepare sushi, you need to account many factors that play an important role in determining the delicious taste of your sushi recipe. An added of advantage of learning to prepare sushi is that after knowing how to prepare a sushi variety, you can prepare a wide range of sushi varieties by just using different types of fillings and toppings. However, you need to more cautious while choosing sushi fish since ordinary fish may be make your sushi dish delicious. Some popular types of sushi-grade fishes are tuna sushi, sea urchin, squid, yellowtail sushi, red snapper, bluefin tuna, salmon sushi and roe.

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If you are planning to use raw fish, make sure its fresh since raw fish might contain parasites and bacteria.

Now, it's time to know the secret formula behind the delicious sushi dish.

Spring 2014

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First clean the sushi rice properly and allow it to soak in cold water for half an hour.

Before cooking the rice, add some Japanese rice wine, a piece of dashi konbu and dark green dried kelp.

After adding the ingredients, start to boil the rice for 15 minutes with the lid on the pot. After it's boiled, let the rice sit for 15 minutes.

Another important part to pay more attention is the preparation of vinegar, which you can start while soaking the rice. In some places around Asia, you can find rice vinegar readily available for use.

Now, you need to mix the vinegar and rice by stirring it properly. When you start stirring, you must also use some fan to cool the rice. After some time, rice will stop steaming. At that stage, you must stop turning and cover the fish using moist towel until it is served.

This is a simple sushi dish in which you can add more flavors by making use of sushi fishes. Using the same principle, you can prepare delicious sushi varieties by varying the fillings and toppings.

Sushi not only tastes delicious, it has high nutritional value and offers a wide range of health benefits like improving the cardiovascular system, promoting cell metabolism and more.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Celebrities on Winning Top Choice Awards

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“Wow, thank you Canada! It’s an honor to be recognized by the Top Choice Awards, as the Top Humanitarian of the year. I love your country, although I nearly froze my buns off in Hamilton and Edmonton.”

– Oprah Winfrey

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“I want to thank you for voting on me as Toronto’s Top Business woman of the year, and being an honoree tonight is an incredible recognition. I love Toronto and especially now that we have one of our Tower hotels I can stay in, I love it even more. Thank you again.”

– Ivanka Trump

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“My Father in Law Sargent Shriver, once said “tear down that mirror that makes you always look at yourself and you will see the millions of people that need your help”. That had such an impact in my life, so thank you, and I am honoured to have received the 2008 Canada’s Top Choice Humanitarian Award.”

– Arnold Schwarzenegger

“Visiting Toronto and receiving an award, I won’t forget it. Thank you to everyone that listens to our music, Love and Peace!”

– Will.i.am www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

“Receiving the Top Choice Award for Humanitarian of year is very flattering, but going to places like Sri Lanka or Malaysia and seeing little children begging for a meal really brings you the sense of how lucky we really are in Canada. I bring them hope and thank you for recognising what I do.”

– Gord Martineau “Winning the Top Choice Award is an honour, and this award belongs to the entire team, I am just a representative. Thank you so much Canada.”

– Luiz Felipe Scolari 

 “This award belongs to all of those behind the cameras at CP24, I want to thank all the folks in the control room that “yell at me”; a big “thank you” to the “Attending the Top Choice producers for putting Awards Gala is so much this show together. fun; On behalf of our team Thank you to all the pubthank you everyone for lic that voted me their taking your time to tune favorite TV personality.” in and stay with us.”

– Steve Anthony – Kevin Frankish

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“Award shows blow, this one blows just a little less ”, the best Gala we have ever been to, well organized, great food, great drinks, and I have no idea who voted for us but we thank you because we are having a great time.”

– Dean Blundell 

Spring 2014

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ENTERTAINMENT

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“It’s hard to run a business and to keep up with the competition, but congratulations to everyone that won the Top Choice Award because you love what you do. To those who love listening to me on the radio every morning thank you, because I love what I do.”

– Scott Fox

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“Receiving the Top Choice Award on behalf of the Top Tv Morning show is an honor and a huge responsibility to maintain our viewers happy and informed, thank you to everyone that voted us 3 years in a row.”

– Jennifer Valentyne  “Wow! Business Man of the year?

Really? It’s an honor to accept this award... it's real and it's legitimate...

Thank you so much” – Dana White

“Winning the Top Choice Award for Top Radio Personality is an honour that represents all the efforts from one team and not just me. Thank you for voting me and congratulations to the other nominees.”

– John Derringer

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www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

 “Winning the Top Choice Lifetime Achievement Award, is looking back and knowing that something was done right; it also enlightens my hope in knowing that through this recognition others will be motivated and keep on doing what they love.”

– Dick Howard “Thank you to all the voters, wow “Top TV Female personality” it is such a treat and a gift to work with this amazing team every morning, and being with the viewers in their living room. This Award inspires us to keep doing what we love. Thank you.”

– Dina Pugliese 54

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“This award is bringing me closer to my goal, which is getting the whole world to do yoga; I would put the award as a belt but I already won the belt like 7 times so I will hold this one on top with great pride to inspire other women to follow their dreams.”

– Trish Stratus

“Being Voted Top Radio personality of the year is a great responsibility, and the Top Choice Award Gala showcases how serious this award really is, because it really turned the spotlight on me, thank you for your love.”

– Ashley Greco

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Power of the Image It only takes ONE shot to make that FIRST impression

"If you want to be a superstar call Fotografia Boutique. I did. Judge the results yourself." Robert Szelazek, CEO, Broadcasting & Media Production, Radio 7.

Maggie Habieda

FOTOGRAFIA BOUTIQUE HAS EXPANDED

and we now have two distinct divisions: “Premium Studio Portraits” and “Premium Wedding Photography”. Maggie Habieda has founded and owns Fotografia Boutique and is literally a “master” where it comes to her vision, artistry, postproduction and photography talents with the camera. At this year’s WPPI Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, Maggie was personally honoured by being awarded her “MASTERS IN PHOTOGRAPHY”! This is recognized globally and only 57 photographers in the world have this title!

Let a MASTER update your corporate image or assist in creating the image that will get you noticed. Images of businesses are everywhere we look, if you are not better than the rest, you will be passed over. Whether you want to freshen up your visual corporate image, or try for the first time defining who you are as a business or company, you will be positioning yourself ahead of the competition. This could be you as the business leader or what has become very popular: group images. So many companies are turning to profiling how powerful their company or group is by “presenting” their team to the world. Celebrate the strength of your team with a group image today.

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"Maggie's a leader and proves that there are no boundaries to one’s success if focused with discipline and determination." Abbas Manesh, Album Epoca in Canada.

"Maggie is a photographer par excellence. Her passion, creative vision and commitment towards her work is unmatchable. It is infectious. Each picture has a story to tell and I'm glad to be a part of her story telling experience."

Shweta Subram, multi-lingual Indo-Canadian singer, songwriter and performer.

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"Maggie is a woman of exceptional courage with a sensitive soul, who has imagination without limits. Maggie has great passion and dedication, revealing human nature in the most beautiful way." Ivan Komarenko, Polish/Russian pop star, national sensation.

"Fotografia Boutique is a place were dreams come true, a place were you find the best within yourself, a place were no matter what you think about yourself, you will feel like the most beautiful person. Maggie’s photography is pure Love and Art! Thank you Maggie Habieda, the angel of Fotografia!" Hector Hernandez, one of the fastest rising stars in Latin music. Soulful, classic and theatrical.

"Maggie’s passion, talent and creativity is clearly apparent in her work. Each finished picture tells a story. She has a unique ability to capture the moment while making the model/subject look and feel their best naturally!"

Grenville Pinto, Canadian violinist, recording artist and entertainer.

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Vasu Chanchiani, Chanchiani Foundation of Canada.

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Spring 2014

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FINANCE & LEGAL

Bergel, Magence LLP Fighting for accident victims has been a family affair for over 40 years.

WHEN IT’S TIME TO SELECT A PERSONAL INJURY

lawyer for your own accident case you would probably feel comfortable knowing that Bergel, Magence LLP is the firm many insurance adjusters and other lawyers choose to represent their own family and friends.

But it’s no accident that this is the choice. As their ad says “For over 40 years Bergel, Magence LLP has been exceeding clients’ expectations”.

What makes this firm so unique? Hy Bergel and Bergel, Magence LLP have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars by litigating or settling insurance claims.

Along the way, a stellar record of success in court has

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set legal precedents and has resulted in a strong rapport with insurance companies and their defense lawyers.

They have come to trust the firm’s judgement when it comes to the figures being demanded in their claims.

This means the firm no longer has to prove themselves but can come to agreement on all but the most contentious issues, saving their clients from a great chunk of the anguish that accompanies the journey through a protracted adversarial process.

If you or your loved ones have been in any situations involving the following types of injuries, you will want to contact Bergel, Magence LLP 24/7 at 416 665-2000.

1. Brain Injuries or other Catastrophic Events 2. Slip and Falls 3. Motorized Vehicles Accidents 4. Long Term Disability Claims 5. Any injury caused by the negligence or distracted behaviour of others Over the last 40 years, Bergel, Magence LLP has helped tens of thousands of accident victims with injuries ranging from minor soft tissue injuries to serious catastrophic traumatic brain injuries and paraplegia.

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Jeremy Magence, managing partner of Bergel, Magence discusses how they have been so successful at helping clients over the years. “We work with doctors and treatment providers who are renowned experts in their fields and who provide the best possible care. We have the knowledge, resources and expertise to help navigate any claim throughout the litigation process and skills to effectively advocate on their behalf that has allowed us to have successfully represented numerous clients in obtaining multi-million dollar settlements.”

Another unique aspect of the firm is that the practice is focused exclusively on representing individuals who have been injured in accidents. As Andrew Bergel notes “This means that all of our energy is concentrated on helping accident victims.”

And there’s one more reason to bring your case to the firm. Bergel, Magence LLP is a “family business”.

Hy’s sons, Andrew and Ilan joined the firm over 15 years ago and his son-in-law Jeremy Magence, joined the firm over 20 years ago. In addition, his wife Helen and daughter Shawna Magence, oversee the administration of the firm. When the topic of Bergel, Magence being a family firm is raised, Ilan Bergel, another partner add, “Having the nucleus of the firm being

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family has helped us shape who we are as a law firm.

Everyone who works at Bergel, Magence is an extension of our family. There is nothing we wouldn’t do for one another. This translates to how we interact with our clients. When we tell our clients, "We treat you like family” we mean it. Everyone goes that extra mile to help our clients. We understand that after an accident people are confused, in pain and frustrated. Our job is to deal with all of the administrative hassle, allowing them to focus on healing.”

Spring 2014

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FINANCE & LEGAL

Starting New "Recognize yourself in he and she who are not like you and me." - Carlos Fuentes Sabrina Cugliari CAN YOU RECALL YOUR FIRST DAY AT

school or your first day at a new job? More likely than not, you were wracked with nerves, wondering how the day would go.

There is a certain fear associated with the “new”. It seems that, as humans, we are apprehensive when it comes to involving ourselves in something for the first time.

As the school days continued to pass or as you settled into a routine at the new job, you probably began to grow more comfortable, finding your place in the structure of things. Those nerves and worries were no longer present. You were no longer “new”, you belonged.

Perhaps this is the reason we become so apprehensive before being thrown into a new situation - when you’re the new kid on the block, you lack a sense of belonging. You are the odd one out. Will people respect you? Will you thrive in the environment? Should you have chosen a different path? These may very well

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be some questions that plague you when you begin a new endeavour. Now imagine these worries on a greater scale. Imagine, for whatever reason, you were leaving your home country and moving to a new one.

How apprehensive would you be then?

Canada prides itself on diversity and celebrates it’s multiculturalism. This pride can be seen nationwide and here in Toronto, it is particularly strong. It echoes on the streets of Chinatown and blossoms during Caribana. Immigrants are a part of our history and our future, yet, the difficulties that are faced when permanently relocating are overlooked.

Starting your whole life over in a new environment is hardly an easy task. It requires bravery and determination; desire and strength. These are all skills that may be familiar to you since they are the same skills required to thrive in any area of business. Immigration is part of what makes Canada the wonderful country that it is

and it can also serve as a reminder that without risk there is no reward.

Start this week off by refusing to be apprehensive about the “unknown”. Begin to look at new situations and environments as adventures rather than challenges. Do not let the unfamiliarity of a situation or environment ever deter you from getting where you need to be.

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EDUCATION

An Academy Offering More Than Education Cathedral Christian Academy wins Top Choice Award for the Top Private School in Toronto Sabrina Cugliari CATHEDRAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY OR

CCA as they are well known by have no doubt carved themselves into a niche market representing something that is close and dear to all our hearts, education. As parents it's not enough to enrol our children into 'a school' now a days because we, by in large, always want something better for them. Something we never had. Something that sets my child apart allowing them to stand out. Something that gives them a leg up and advantage in the competitive small world we now live in. Something called 'private school'.

Something perhaps just like CCA. Seeking a fresh perspective of private education I visited Cathedral Christian Academy located at 1111 Arrow Road in Toronto. During a public school presentation among 1000 people in attendance I was pleasantly surprised and encouraged and at times overwhelmed and wow'ed.

Not only is CCA a private school, but also a Christian private school. The students performed dramatic arts, song, dance and singing with a compelling story line. The main characters were so endearing. A little

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girl, Annalisa, and a big sister are in search of the 'Joy of Christmas', the theme of the evening. They find it during the dramatic conclusion of the one hour and fifteen minute performance. All the cast of 85 participants were students and faculty giving all they had to impress, and that they did!

They were like a well prepared orchestra, groups of students of all ages flowing with perfect synchronization with all the other dramatization, lights, sounds, music and outstanding performances. I wondered who is responsible for the performances and this schools success in light of so many private schools struggling. People would reply, the Director, Pastor Tim. I had to meet him.

Cathedral Christian Academy started some 25 years ago under Pastor Paul & Kathy Melnichuk. Changes in the academic system posed some challenging hurtles for CCA and that is where the Director came in. When I spoke with Tim, he was very kind, modest and professional with a contagious energy always extending accolades to his team that work with him. He is the type of personality you enjoy being

around always leaving with more then you came with. In discussion he simply said, "we changed everything, from school and classroom design, paint colours, operations, logistics, uniforms, to daily activities, curriculum and lunch menus. Everything was changed and improved. You must move with the times keeping the integrity of who you are." The achievement was very apparent.

The school facility is professionally appointed with a full cafeteria, gymnasium and aesthetic remodelling that would impress the harshest critic. A school that anyone would be proud of. I finally had to ask what does all this cost per student? They almost had to pick me up off the floor when I was told $385.00 per month. Well worth double that price! The Director explained "...it is important to reach out and help people if you are in the position to do so. It's not alway easy but God makes a way."

My evening concluded with a sense of gratitude and delight for the opportunity to be a part of 'something' incredibly spectacle and refreshing. Something that makes you feel good. That something that makes a difference. With certified professional teachers, an amazing complex, outstanding direction wrapped in a Christian environment we tip our hat to the Top Choice Award winner for the most outstanding private school that is truly something. Great job CCA! 1111 Arrow Road Toronto ON 416.747.2843 www.ccaschool.ca

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LIVING

Sorry, Son... There's No App for That "Everybody gets so much information all day long that they lose their common sense." - Gertrude Stein Sabrina Cugliari HOW ATTACHED ARE YOU TO TECHNOLOGY?

Are you perhaps reading this on your smartphone at this moment? When’s the last time you used a map? How often do you send a quick text rather than make a phone call? In a society where technology rules with an iron fist, some may go as far as suggesting that the attachment is more of an addiction - and they wouldn’t be wrong.

The extreme weather we’ve been experiencing in the last few weeks has brought with it many challenges. As a result of the ice storm that hit the GTA and surrounding areas, hundreds of thousands of people were left without power. While there are thousands of people in the world who are without power daily, the loss of something we take for granted as a society was shocking. While the city came together during this crisis, there was no denying the desperation that plagued citizens without power. And maybe that’s the problem.

It seems that as a generation, we have become too reliant on electronics and the technology which they offer. Without heat or power, the majority of the GTA was forced to “unplug” and the technological absence was strongly felt.

The question is, what does this mean for us?

By being dependent on technology have we lost something? Some would argue yes. Perhaps we

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have lost the appreciation of any given moment, too wrapped up in capturing the perfect photo instead of enjoying the present. Perhaps we have become complacent in life, knowing that there is always an easy way to do things with the aid of our electronics. The photo above is a superb illustration of our dependency. While technological advances have expanded our global networks and simplified many aspects of our lives, they have also been detrimental in the sense that we have become a lazy generation. Technology has made it possible to believe that things will be done for us - without any work or effort.

The power outages experienced during the ice storm forced society to “unplug” for a short period of time, however, perhaps we should be unplugging more often. The much needed breaks from our technological dependence can serve to remind us that there is more to life than “apps”. While we stare down at tiny screens, it’s important to remember that the world continues to blossom all around us.

Start this week off by reminding yourself that while technology is often necessary and beneficial, we should not become reliant on it.There’s a world outside our window, just waiting to be explored! And that, is worth much more than reading about it on Google!

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Stacy Da Silva Short sub-header goes here, please let me know what you would like. 3 lines max would work best.

SINCE I WAS A LITTLE GIRL, MODELING HAS BEEN SOMETHING

I greatly admired. I remember watching Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows, and being so intrigued. I also loved shows such as America's Next Top Model and other shows of the likes. It was always of interest to me. The only problem was that I was short! Being five feet, three inches just wasn't going to cut it! So my fantasy of being a model, "will have to remain in my dreams"... Or so I thought.

Besides modeling, I also loved anything and everything related to health. Another one of my dreams was to become a doctor.

Unlike modeling, there were no limits to attaining this dream.

Hence, I set out to make it a reality!

Today, I am in the process of attaining both of those dreams! One in which I thought was nearly impossible and the other -although very challenging-was something I was guaranteed to achieve.

I am a Kinesiology and Health Science major, in my third year at York University. I graduated from high school with the third highest average in my class and currently maintain a high average in university. This summer I intend to write my MCAT, and finally apply for Medical School this winter. Since I was a little girl I had my mind set on becoming a doctor and with a lot of sacrifice and hard word, I am doing my best to be successful.

I chose Kinesiology and Health Sciences as my major because it'd a combination of two subjects that I like: Health and Fitness.

Growing up, I was always very athletic, participating in activities such as swimming, gymnastics, and figure skating. Therefore, I knew that I would love learning about the science behind fitness and learning of ways to promote health through exercise and diet. Not only does this major teach exercise science, but it also includes the general sciences (biology, chemistry, anatomy, biochemistry etc.).

Not only am I a full-time student, I also work as a personal trainer part-time. I enjoy being able to apply what I learn in textbooks to the real world and contributing to the community through the sharing of my knowledge. It's actually another method of learning, through experience and a reinforcement of things learnt in class.

Bring able to work as a personal trainer has been a blessing to my life! Not only does it give me the opportunity to do what I love teaching others how to live a healthy lifestyle-but it also gave me the opportunity to make my other dream come true: becoming a model.

Who would have thought that the dream I had given up on would soon become a reality. Surely I am not a runway model, and probably never will be, but modeling isn't limited to the runway.

Fitness modeling incorporates all my passions for fitness, health, and modeling. What more could I ask for?

Apart from being a student, trainer, and model, I help manage my mother's janitorial and maintenance company. Braserv Janitorial Inc., (formerly known as Metro Cleaning Group). For over 20 years Braserv has been in the business of reducing cleaning costs for commercial, office, retail, condominium, and institutional properties. It is a family run business that prides itself of honesty, loyalty, and quality work. I contribute to the business by

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ď ˇ Stacy Da Silva is a F2BF member and in personal training with Belinda Kiriakou an IFBB PorFitness Model and Gym owner; she also experienced photo-shoots with renound fitness model photographers like Dave Laus and bikini sponsorships with companies like Red Ash Apparel; Her second place in her height category ranked her in the "Top 100 Hot and Fit Women in Canada", get more details in the Inside Fitness Magazine issued in January of 2014.

marketing and advertising, as well as making contract proposals and setting up meetings.

Being proactive and hardworking is something that I value greatly. Some people wonder how I have the time to fulfill all these duties. The truth is that I don't have the time, I make the time. I am a determined person. I believe that good things and success only come to those who go out there and work hard for it. At such a young age, there is so much to do and conquer. I don't like to waste my time. I want to make the most of my youth and build a brilliant future for myself. Furthermore, I want others to be motivated by my life story. I believe that anything is possible when we set our minds to it. Nothing is impossible, after all, the word itself says, "I'm possible"!

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