Top Choice Magazine - Vol. 04 No. 03 - Fall 2010

Winter 2010 • Vol. 04 • No. 01

Top Choice New Business of 2009

Stratusphere

PLUS: Are you blind?

Vaughan Fundraiser Breakfast Television & More Photo: Sam Santos / JC Pimentel Photography $4.99CAN • www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Trish Stratus is “stratusfied” that her Yoga Studio in Vaughan is named the top choice page 14

Thank you!

The Team aT Woodbine is proud To be voTed The GTa’s 2009 Top ChoiCe enTerTainmenT Complex.

Thank you To our valued CusTomers, and To our sTaff for Their dediCaTion To serviCe exCellenCe. The staff at Woodbine is extremely professional and highly accommodating. Woodbine is an entertainment facility that offers a variety of gaming, food and beverage opportunities. There is easy access to Woodbine from the 400 series highways and minutes from Pearson International Airport with free parking and admission.

From casual food to upscale dining for singles and groups, it is the perfect spot for a friends’ night out or business function, an afternoon of exciting horseracing or a corporate retreat. With well appointed rooms, internet access and audiovisual options, small or large meetings, banquets and retreats can be planned indoors or out throughout the year.

Woodbine event tent

Woodbine is part of Canada’s illustrious horseracing tradition. It is the only racetrack in North America to offer live racing, both standardbred and thoroughbred, in a single day. Woodbine is home to the $1 million Queen’s Plate which has been run without interruption since 1860 and is the highlight of the summer racing season. In addition to live racing, Woodbine also offers simulcast wagering on products from all around the world – from the United States to Hong Kong to Australia.

Woodbine is home to OLG Slots at Woodbine Racetrack which offers an exciting gaming experience with more than 2,000 slot machines, ranging from 1 cent to $5.00 including Blazing 7s, Wheel of Fortune, and Red Hot Jackpots. For added gaming excitement, check out our popular tribute bands at Hoofbeats Stage every Friday and Saturday night. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Woodbine offers a complete experience for seasoned visitors and those new to horseracing and gaming. Both the Woodbine and OLG teams are ready to welcome you, your friends and clients for a unique entertainment experience every day of the week.

Chinese Day aT WooDbine r aCeTraCk

Woodbine is honoured to be the GTA 2009

Top ChoiCe enTerTainmenT Complex

Woodbine RacetRack

OLG.ca

w w w.wo o d b i n e

e n t er ta i n m en t.c o m

Precious Flowers N’ Things

Event Photo: SAM SANTOS / JC Pimentel Photography

Multicultural top choice awards 2009

Flowers Decorations Chair Covers Gift Baskets

823 LansDowne ave | 416 537 3444 | ToronTo 10120 YonGe sT | 905 884 6333 | riChmonD hiLL

Stratusfaction

Guaranteed

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trish Stratus: from the top in the ring, to top in business.

Stratusphere Yoga Studio has been voted top new Business of 2009 in the Gta. page 14

Is your child eating healthy?

Yummy Catering can help

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Learn English in Canada at ILAC

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WhY So MAnY CovErS? These covers are from businesses that have chosen to use Top Choice Magazine as Sound Production and Lighting

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Top ChoiCe WINTER 2010

a promotion platform. Follow

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Erin Mills Limousine Service

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each cover to read more about these dynamic businesses.

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Features:

unch!

haP Pose wit

’ work it!

tta it! You go as winning the better. portant ost as im morable the pose, ard is alm your aw yful; the more me th wi g Posin s, pla venturou Crazy, ad

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Top Choice Magazine Top Choice Magazine is dedicate 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 “iNNER piece” ”

ing hander” The “Wild Th The “One- es tilia

By Danny

Fernand

The magazine is published 4 times a year and is

By Trish Stratus

a reliable guide to the top products and services

By Rep

in your community!

The Tao of the Top Choice Award

a Mia!” The “Mam rting

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a Impo

By Auror

Like The “Party ” A Rocksttearl Photography

Breakfast Television u” hapea Le “Cina Pugliese

By D

30

By JC Pimen

With more than 50,000 copies are distributed throughout Top Business 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

Grand Opening of St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic

Are You Blind?

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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 magazine@TopChoiceAwards.com Media kits are available in print and digital format.

Copyright notice The content and photographs in this magazine

Event: The 4th Annual Multicultural Top Choice Awards

Vaughan Funraiser: Royal Winter Ball

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are protected by copyright. Reproduction in any form, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Contact us Top Choice Magazine 75 Four Winds Drive, Suite 103 M3J 1K7 Toronto, Ontario Canada magazine@topchoiceawards.com

Jaymor Group Cruise www.EnterVote.com

Walmart accepts Top Choice Award

Toll-free: 1-866-771-9743 Tel. 416 662 2123 Fax. 647-351-6091

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Message from

the

Sam Santos / JC Pimentel Photography

David Silvestre Publisher

Editor

Managing Editor Monica Couto Art Director Michael Fillier Accountant Executive Sal Verri Sales Manager Nicole Bifolchi Graphic Designers Michael Fillier Julius Manalo Jason DeLuca Mike Perdue Photography Sam Santos George Pimentel Writers Monica Couto David Silvestre Morris Luchesse Contributing Writers Dyvine Silvestre Amber Currier

Photo taken during our recent presentation to Trish Stratus for Stratusphere Yoga I hope that you had an amazing holiday and I hope 2010 brings you health and fortune.

You may have noticed that I used hope twice in the same sentence and that’s because hope is the message for this issue of Top Choice Magazine.

Hoping is what keeps us alive, it brings us energy and happiness, because no matter who we are or what we do, we can all share hope.

We hope for better weather and good health, we hope to live longer, we hope for the plane to land safely, we hope for our children’s future, for peace on earth, for a better economy, for justice, for our hearts to keep beating, all we do is hope...

Of course, hope is not a replacement for action. For example, you can hope for a better job, but you won’t find it unless you look for it. We all hope for peace on earth, but what are we doing to make it happen?

Everything we hope for is possible, but the path to making it happen starts in each one of us. Believe it or not, our attitudes are like diseases, they are easily spread to everyone around us. So I ask you “What attitude are you sharing with others?”I found this quote in an ancient history book, it tells us what faith is:

“Be sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see” We can’t see air, we can’t see sound, we can’t see the feelings between a loved one, but we believe and we trust that it is there. I hope you understand this message and never give up, because hoping is the only thing that is sure!

All the best in 2010!

Your friend, David Silvestre

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Welcome to

The Tao of the

Top Choice Award Congratulations, you have won the Top Choice Award! You have attended the gala or had a presentation in your office. You have been featured in the magazine, seen on the TV, posted on the internet, released to the newspapers, heard on the radio and been recognized by your peers. Now you can sit back, relax, and wait for next year’s results...WRONG! It’s not enough to just win the award and go back to your regular business routine, you need to use the Top Choice Award for the reason it was created: to increase your business!

Your website It’s your 24 hour business information centre, do your website visitors know you have won the Top Choice Award?

Your vehicles You already know that vehicles are a great way to increase the visibility of your company around the city, but do your vehicles have the Top Choice Award logo on them?

Your storefront or office It is your job to let your clients know that you are the best! Make sure they know that they are making the right choice by choosing your products or services. Are your stickers on the door or window? Are your pop-up displays in the reception area, waiting area or point of sale areas? Is your trophy (or trophies for all the multi-award winners) on display where everyone can notice?

Your advertisements Have a commercial on TV? A commercial on Radio? An ad in the newspaper? If you have any of these, then you have a platform to use the Top Choice Award and a way to make your ad stand out from your competitors.

www.EnterVote.com

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Pose with a Punch!

Posing with your award is almost as important as winning it! You gotta’ work it!

Crazy, adventurous, playful; the more memorable the pose, the better.

The “One-hander”

By Danny Fernandes

The “Wild Thing”

By Reptilia

The “iNNER pi

By Trish Stra

tus

ece”

The “Mama Mia!”

By Aurora Importing

Le “Chapelieaseu”

The “Party Like A Rockstar”

By Dina Pug

By JC Pimentel Photograp

hy

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

e r a s d a e h o w T “ e h T The “In your face!”

By Jorge Gabriel better than one”

The “Pinky”

By Herman José

By João Baião

!” t h ig f a t u o h it w t The “No w rning Sho

By The Z103.5 Mo

Photos: Sam Santos / JC Pimentel Photography

The “Shooter”

By City TV & Kevin Frankish www.EnterVote.com

The “Anti-gravity”

By Axé Capoeira

The “Brazilian”

By Samba Brasil Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Photo: steveapostle.com

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Stratusfaction

GUArANTEEd Trish Stratus: from the top in the ring, to top in business. Stratusphere Yoga Studio has been voted Top New Business of 2009 in the GTA.

Trish Stratus, owner of Stratusphere, has spent the past decade of her life promoting health and wellness as a role model in the fitness industry. Once on top in the ring as a sports entertainer for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), we now see her on top in the business world as a Top Choice Award recipient.

“I feel stronger than I ever have before, not only physically, but stronger in both body and mind. I sense the balance between my mind, body and soul,” said Trish Stratus during the presentation of the award. When asked why yoga?

This is what Trish had to say, “Yoga was what allowed me to sustain a sense of balance throughout my career, helping me achieve my goals and something I could always turn to throughout my career. Opening a studio was a way to introduce yoga to as many people as possible.”

Utilizing the wisdom Trish acquired through her years working as a sports entertainer in the WWE, a company renowned for their marketing innovation and success, Stratus transferred that experience into owning and operating her own business.

Monica Couto, Top Choice Awards President shared her thoughts on the presentation “I was filled with a calming sensation as soon as I entered the studio, there is an aura of peace that seems to radiate everywhere. As soon as you look into Trish’s eyes you see such focus in them, you can understand how she got to where she is now.”

Business owners in the GTA cast their vote during a survey conducted by Top Choice Awards in search of the GTA’s Top New Business of the Year.

Top Choice Awards would like to congratulate Trish Stratus and the team at Stratusphere Yoga Studio for working together and allowing that hard work and determination to shine through as they receive the Top Choice Award for Top New Business of 2009.

Photo: Sam Santos www.EnterVote.com

About Stratusphere Yoga Studio Television personality and fitness celebrity Trish Stratus is the proprietor of Stratusphere Yoga Studio, a 5,200 sq. ft. multi-disciplinary yoga centre in Vaughan, Ontario, offering classes in a variety of yoga disciplines. For more information please visit www.stratusphereyoga.com.

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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* *This applies to 1st year only, limited space available, 1st come 1st serve, limited to one class, $25 registration fee and costume deposit must be paid for each boy, call for details.

Recipient Since

20 06

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The chef’s at Yummy Catering prepare made-from-scratch meals for Schools and Childcare Centres in the GTA

Is Your Child Eating Healthy?

If the thought of preparing healthy meals for your own children on a daily basis seems overwhelming, imagine doing it for thousands of children on a daily basis. To Yummy Catering it has been a delight providing nutritional home-style meals to thousands of children in Schools and Childcare Centres in the GTA and surrounding area.

By Monica Couto

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Lino Cardoso founder and CEO of Yummy Catering Services Inc. who is without a doubt, a very impressive Young Entrepreneur!

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

What is the start-up story behind your business venture?

In the beginning everybody told me that I was absolutely out of my mind developing Yummy Catering Services Inc. in late 2003, with no previous food background and people gave me no chance for success. With

my strong belief in the benefits of healthy eating for children and a great deal of hard work within a year Yummy Catering Services Inc. established itself as an industry leader and was the fastest growing catering company in our industry providing nutritional meals to children in Schools and Childcare Centres in the GTA.

What defines Yummy’s success?

Yummy’s success can be attributed to our focus on healthy nutritious home-style meals that children enjoy, using a unique combination of top quality ingredients, traditional cooking styles and state-of-the-art facilities which is considered a role model for all others in our industry. With our ongoing quality improvement, we constantly strive for and establish industry standards. The quality of services we deliver is second to none in the industry.

Our clients are assured of our commitment to help them achieve their goals through our efficient, cost-effective, personalized and comprehensive catering programs.

Yummy Catering Services Inc. adheres to the belief that there are three groups that define its success, its customers, the high nutritional quality of food provided and the management team which supports and leads its or-

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

FEATURE ganizational personnel. Yummy’s success can also be attributed to our focus on continuous quality improvement. An evolving process, we continue to strive for and establish industry standards and benchmarks in professionalism.

Why is it important for children to eat well-balanced meals in Schools and Childcare Centers?

It is evident that nutritious meals and snacks make a big lasting difference in a child’s life. A high-quality, balanced meal helps kids achieve optimal health and gives them enough energy to stay active and alert throughout the day.

One of Yummy`s most important aspects of healthy eating is enjoying a variety of fresh, free from preservatives, made-from-scratch foods each day with the use of 100% natural ingredients and trans fat free products. We hope that these children will build the habits of healthy eating that will last a lifetime.

What is Yummy’s innovative approach?

We hold the belief that an organization’s innovative edge is guided by its ability to forecast the future needs of current and potential clients. Clients often will not exactly know or be able to anticipate the services or support that they will want or require in the future. Good communication with our clients is key in obtaining significant input on evolving needs and market trends. In addition, the linkage between this information and development of new programs or services and/or redesign of current ones must be clear.

How does your company distinguish itself as a community-minded organization?

Yummy Catering Services Inc. is a strong community-minded organization. While working with Second Harvest we have supported and continue to support our Community by becoming a regular donor of high quality prepared food, produce and meat.

The people we have assisted range

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Top: Yummy Catering’s fleet delivers nutritious lunches and snacks to children in childcare centres and schools all over the GTA and surrounding area.

Left: Lino Cardoso (holding award) and his management staff receive the 2009 Top Choice Award for Best Catering Company from mothers and their children fleeing violence to runaway teenagers, refugees, immigrant families and others who, for one reason or another, have fallen on hard times.

We also have taken an aggressive approach to establishing environmentally conscious practices. Our sustainability goals are to produce zero waste, to be supplied by 100% renewable energy, to provide products that protect the environment and conserve resources. Yummy Catering Services Inc. waste is now separated and recycled from all areas including: paper, cardboard, plastic, organics, oil, trash, skids and other waste. By separating these recyclable items, we can divert more than 75% of our waste before it reaches community landfills.

After many months of surveying it was very clear that client satisfaction was very high. How can you explain that?

Client’s confidence comes from supplying consistent quality services and providing satisfaction “guarantees”. Client confidence means retention, repeat business and a good image.

Yummy Catering Services Inc. believes client satisfaction is our top priority and through our ongoing dedication we will gain recognition among our clients as a sound investment for the future.

By focusing on our clients’ needs for today and tomorrow, Yummy Catering Services is able to provide long-term alternative solutions.

We hold the belief that a focus on quality and excellence is essential to our continued success.

Ensuring full alignment on the importance of client satisfaction is central to our work. We are guided by a coordinated and total commitment to deliver promised and/or contract services to our clients. The process ensures that information on client requirements is reviewed and disseminated throughout the organization helping everyone, including those who have a direct client contact, stay focused on clients satisfaction.

Building a successful relationship with clients requires total support from Yummy’s leadership, and the shared belief by all staff that ultimate success is achieved when Yummy Catering Services satisfies client needs better than anyone else in the industry.

We believe that the defining force in any organization is the impression its leaders leave with the customers and the employees.

Our ideals of Honesty and Integrity are the basis for all of our decisions. In adhering to these ideals we can create an atmosphere where employee loyalty and customer appreciation is established and emphasis is placed on the importance of each member in the organization.

Yummy’s Service Quality Evaluation System is reflective of our ongoing commitment to, and pursuit of, excellence in provision of high quality catering service of distinctive value. •

To learn how you can give your child nutritional home-style meals in childcare centres and schools, call 416-532-5250 or visit www.YummyCatering.ca

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3-time recipient of the top choice AwArd for top AquArium Store Service of the GtA

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BIG AL’S AQUARIUM SUPERCENTRE •

Big Al’s sells approximately 15,000,000 fish per year and growing!

• Big Al’s serves over 20,000 customers per week.

• 16 locations across Canada

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

• Big Al’s has more sharks on display than any other Aquarium Store, aside from Sea-Aquariums.

•

Presently Big Al’s has over 400,000 VIP Customers and growing.

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

AquArium SupercentreS For over 30 years, Big Al’s Aquarium Supercentres have been the pioneers of bringing the mysterious depths of the ocean into the homes of Canadians. They have worked diligently to remain the “The Pond and Aquarium Hobby Specialists”, providing their valued clients with the largest selection of aquariums, aquarium furniture, and aquarium supplies available on the market. Each Big Al’s Supercentre is designed and operated with one main objective in mind: to provide professional service and the

highest quality products to customers of all experience levels (ranging from the firsttime hobbyist to the ultimate aquatic specialist). Our unique livestock showrooms, branded “ENTER THE DEEP”, offer the most comprehensive selection of fish and aquatic plants species in any retail environment (an impressive 25,000 to 50,000 gallons of water displays). Additionally, the Big Al’s Shark Feeding Frenzy, which takes place every Tuesday at 7 P.M. shark! continues to be a crowdpleasing weekly attraction.

www.BigAlscanada.com

www.EnterVote.com

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Still 1... #

but not without a figh 22

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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BT

CityTv’s Breakfast Television (BT), Toronto's #1 Morning Show is still on TOP! Written by David Silvestre Photos by Sam Santos

ht! www.EnterVote.com

The results of our survey said that Breakfast Television was voted Top Television Morning Show by the ethnic communities in the GTA. We always had an idea of what the team of Breakfast Television was like, but we always wondered: How are they really like behind the cameras?

Well today, we got the opportunity to find out, and we’re sharing it with you!

It was a very early start to the day, we wanted to make sure we’d have enough time to get ready as well as beat that lovely morning traffic straight into the heart of Downtown Toronto into Dundas Square.

We were greeted by the producer, Kevin Forget, who was extremely gracious towards us. He led us to the studio where we were able to sit down and watch the live show being aired. We were so surprised by the organization of the show, during every commercial break, the team would start whizzing by, changing the set for the next segment. When it was a commercial break, we would look around to see if anyone looked tired or upset, but no! Everyone was smiling and looked happy to be there.

When the show was done, Kevin Frankish, cohost of BT, led us upstairs to where we were going to be presenting the award and showed us around.

Monica was offered an amazing espresso which she enjoyed every drop of. After a little tour, we gathered together again to present the award. We were so surprised how real everyone was. Whether they were on-air or off, their personalities were always so genuine. During the presentation, we found that they were extremely easy to work with and cooperative.

Welcoming, caring, encouraging, positive, happy... just some of the words we find describe the hosts of Breakfast Television, the Top Morning Television Show in the GTA! They couldn’t express how thankful they were for everyone who voted for them. They also wanted to acknowledge that the show would not be possible without the collective efforts of everyone involved in the show. “This award belongs to the entire team” they said. From our perspective and experience everything is a reflection of how the show is organized, and in this regard we have to thank Kevin Forget the producer of BT, he was helpful and professional on all levels, a perfect example of what this show is made of! • Top Choice WINTER 2010

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TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS FROM 5:30PM-600:PM THE PROGRAM WITH “CHA-BAM!” • STARRING BRADLEE “S”, DYVINE “S” & YOU!

ONLY AT: .COM

Here are just a few facts that can help you know the hosts of BT a little better and understand why they host the Top Morning Show in the GTA!

Dina Pugliese

Kevin Frankish When Kevin hosted a high school talk show at a community cable station in North Bay, he knew his future would be in television. Three years later at age 17, Kevin worked for CKNY Television as a reporter, camera operator, news editor and even anchor! Before joining Citytv in 1991, Kevin spent nine years at The New VR in Barrie. Kevin now dedicates his time to co-hosting Breakfast Television every weekday morning. With his trademark suspenders and quick wit, Kevin has gained a loyal early morning following.

Drawing viewers in with her big smile and charismatic screen presence, Dina Pugliese is a force of nature on the small screen. As Co-Host of Breakfast Television, Toronto’s Number One Morning Show, Dina is known for her superb dance moves, impromptu celebrity impressions, infectious laugh and keeping Co-Host Kevin Frankish on his toes! Born in Toronto and raised in Woodbridge, Dina is a self-confessed pop-culture junkie. Her hard-working and professional attitude have led her to host many TV shows.

Dina began her career as Associate Producer of Global Television’s “The Bynon Show” and Entertainment Reporter, Writer and Producer for Toronto 1’s Morning Show “Toronto Today”. She then moved to entertainment, hosting “The A-List” (2004) and Star!’s “Star! Daily”, (2005 - 2007) before joining “BT” in October 2006.

Dina also donates her time to numerous charities, giving back to the community that has supported her career for so many years.

Education: •

Double Major, Sociology and Mass Communications, York University

•

Broadcast Journalism Degree, Humber College

Awards/Honours/Interesting Facts: •

2006 Gemini Nomination for Best Host in a Lifestyle/ Practical Information or Performing Arts Program or Series for “MuchMusic VJ Search - The Series”.

•

International ‘shoe-ru’ Ron White designed a boot inspired by Dina that the Duchess of York (yes, Fergie) loved and added to her royal shoe collection - it’s appropriately called ‘The Dina.’

•

Dina was recently named one of ‘Top 10 Hottest Women on Television’ by HELLO! Magazine Canada.

Education •

Radio and Television Broadcasting Diploma Canadore College

Little Known Fact: •

Eye Magazine voted Kevin “Best Flirt on a Local Television Broadcast,” in 1995

Source: www.breakfasttelevision.ca www.EnterVote.com

Source: www.breakfasttelevision.ca Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Community

Cosmetics for the Communities of St. Clair

St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic is celebrating its grand opening, but its medical director is no stranger to Corso Italia

Press Release November 25th, 2009 - Toronto, Ontario - A small crowd gathers outside the doors of Toronto’s newest cosmetic clinic, they are now moments away from the highly anticipated grand opening of St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic. When the doors open guests are greeted by Dr. Nino Kuzmar and his staff, the ambiance is set for networking with ethnic music, wine, cheese and a variety of multicultural hors d’oeuvres.

T here was a great turn out of guests, but more importantly there was a great diversit y of cultures, which is just what the Doctor ordered. “I have been a practitioner on St. Clair for nearly 20 years and my patients are truly multicultural” says Dr. Kuzmar “When I set out to open a cosmetic and laser clinic I decided to remain on St. Clair in the heart of these communities.”

It seems like Dr. Kuzmar made the right choice as people throughout the local community and from the PORTUGUESE , HISPANIC, ITALIAN communities attended showing their support to these new services available so close to their home.

At the end of the day it is the services offered at St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic that makes them truly s t a nd out . T he clinic utilizes awa rd -w i n n i ng , gold standard products and technologies, specializing in non-surgical facial rejuvenation and laser hair removal for all skin types (an important factor when taking on ethnic clientele). To demonstrate how non-invasive the treatments are, Dr. Kuzmar and his staff performed procedures live for their guests, providing information and answering questions along the way.

“I have been a practitioner on St. Clair for nearly 20 years and my patients are truly multicultural” Dr. Nino Kuzmar

To celebrate their grand opening St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic are offering a free microdermabrasion treatment to all new clients.

Call (416) 652-1288 to book your free consultation with digital skin imaging or visit the clinic online at www.StClairCosmeticAndLaser.com

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Non-surgical facial rejuvenation and laser hair removal

Special offer for first time clients laser hair removal

Upper Lip

$20 per session

Underarm

$50 per session facial rejuvenation

Microdermabrasion

$50 per session

Call today for your complimentary consultation with digital skin imaging

416-652-1288 1223 St. Clair Ave. West, Suite 205 www.StClairCosmeticAndLaser.com

Since 1929

HigH Performance Vision™ The Bochner Eye Institute is internationally-recognized as the experts in Laser Eye Surgery. Celebrating its 80th anniversary, Bochner is the longest established laser eye treatment center in North America.

“We have thousands of satisfied patients from all over the world— 40 countries and counting — to have laser eye surgery,” says Dr. Raymond Stein. “However, the most significant acknowledgement of our expertise comes from the fact that well over 300 eye doctors have chosen our Institute to have their eyes treated.” The father and son teams of Harold and Raymond Stein, and Albert and Jordan Cheskes trained at the world renowned Mayo Clinic. They also hold professorships at the University of Toronto and have collaborated on an impressive 35 texts — the most academic books attributed to a private institution in North America.

“Our reputation as a center of excellence is attributable to the quality of our surgeons,” notes Dr. Harold Stein. “Patients considering a laser procedure can be rest assured that our surgeons are amongst the most skilled and experienced in the world,” explains Dr. Stein, “what really sets us apart is our expertise partnered with the most advanced laser technology available.” Technologies like the new Intralase® equipment. The Intralase® laser is the safest, most effective all laser LASIK technique.

This technology provides improved safety, better vision, higher degrees of predictability and precision.

Now with, new diagnostic equipment, the Bochner Eye Institute is now better able to detect and correct diseases and disorders of the eye at the earliest stages. “Innovation, safety, experience, dependability, and the longevity that comes with years of experience and thousands of happy patients are what keep the Bochner Eye Institute at the forefront of laser technology in Canada,” concludes Dr. Albert Cheskes.

Official Laser and Eye Centre for the Toronto Blue Jays

416.960.2020 • 1.800.665.1987

www.Bochner.com 28

Top ChoiCe WINTER 2010

A testament to its innovative approach and legacy of success, The Bochner Eye Institute is proud to be chosen as the official laser and eye centre for the Toronto Blue Jays.

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

SERVICES kERAToconus Keratoconus is a corneal disease that occurs when the normally round dome-shaped cornea (the clear outer area of the eye) progressively thins causing a conelike bulge to develop. New treatment modalities are offerred including corneal collagen crosslinking with Riboflavin and intracorneal rings.

InTRAocuLAR TEchnIquEs Intraocular techniques, as the name implies, are done within the eye. Three intraocular techniques are available at the Bochner Eye Institute: Phakic Intraocular Lenses - often referred to as an Implantable Contact Lens (ICL), Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and Cataract Surgery

LAsIk LASIK, or Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a type of laser eye surgery for correcting myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

In order for light to focus more clearly on the retina, the outer window of the eye and the cornea must be of the proper curvature.

PRk During photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), the surface cells of the cornea, called the corneal epithelium, are removed instead of creating a LASIK flap. The excimer laser is applied to reshape the cornea and correct vision. Visual outcomes are equally as impressive as with LASIK, however, the healing time tends to be longer.

Official Sponsor of the Toronto maple Leafs & Toronto raptors

LEft tO Right:

DR. hARoLD A. sTEIn

MD, FRCSC, DABO, MeDiCAl DiReCtOR

DR. ALBERT chEskEs

MD, FRCSC, DABO, MeDiCAl DiReCtOR

DR. RAymonD m. sTEIn

MD, FRCSC, DABO, MeDiCAl DiReCtOR

3-time recipient Top Laser Vision correction in the gtA

www.EnterVote.com

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Are you Blind?

I hope you are, really, I do, because I am and only now I see that!

By David Silvestre

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

FEATURE

G

rowing up, I lived in a has made many public appearsmall village in Portugal, ances on TV, radio, newspapers my house: right on top of and magazines, and if you have the church. That’s right, I was an ever seen him you probably never altar boy, and every day I would guessed he was blind.

Finally I was able to ask him a help with mass. I remember how good it felt to be considered useful question I have always wondered: and belong to a group. At an early “How do you manage your life age, I learnt that no matter what in the dark?” His response was, happens, families would come “David, after I lost my vision at together to support each other. I the age of 24, I went through a learnt how loud families cry when deep depression and had decided a loved one passed away, just like I to give up on life. I told my wife learnt how happy they were when to leave me and find a man who a family member was baptized or could give her and our daughter a married. There were nights where happy future, her reply was ‘I will The Man with The Vision I couldn’t sleep because of a fuonly leave a man who quits, not a neral and other nights because of blind one. You were a smart man JP Pampena a party. before you were blind and Coming from a simple you are the same smart man family, I never had what most now!’. That was the moment kids had, yet I was always that defined my new look at “If I had known that becoming life and the start of my suchappy. I remember when a banana or yogurt was concess.” He goes on to tell me blind would have changed something that I will stay with sidered a treat for special me forever “If I had known days, but regular things for my life in such a positive my friends. I remember smellthat becoming blind would ing delicious foods and never have changed my life in such way…I would have wanted to tasting them, and playing with a positive way…I would have become blind years earlier.” a “soccer ball” made of old asked to become blind years earlier.” socks. I remember receiving Since interviewing JP used clothes from my friend JP Pampena I also watched the movie Goncarlo who, by the way, is now a priest. I even remember Lotocki of Robert Design Group. “The Blind Side” starring Sandra that while my friends used to en- When meeting JP for the first time Bullok, a movie based on the true joy new games and toys, I would I had no idea that he was blind story of a boy from a ghetto in the always have to make up my own. and I bet that it would be nearly USA who, against all odds, grows Even today, people ask me impossible for anyone to tell. JP up to be a great football player why I’m always happy and up was dressed to impress with his in the NFL. “Big Mike”, as they until a couple months ago I never Italian suit, classy sunglasses, tilt- call him in the movie, grew up in really had an answer. But the man ed fedora and came equipped with an environment that takes lives; I am about to introduce to you an attitude to match his looks. his mother was a drug addict, changed all that.

I had the pleasure to sit with his brothers become gang memI would like to introduce you JP during the event and it was bers and drug dealers, and in his to JP Pampena from JP Public Re- my pleasure to speak with him neighbourhood it is easier to catch lations Inc., a successful business- throughout the night. I have to a bullet than a cold! Yet Mike surman whose firm has represented admit that I had a tough time ex- vives all this, by closing his eyes a variety of the celebrities we all pressing myself, but JP spoke with and ignoring his surroundings. know and love, including Al Pac- me as if he had known me for So I learn from this just as I ino, Ben Johnson, Steven Seagal, years, his openness and compas- learnt from JP, sometimes it is Dennis Edwards & The Tempta- sion really put me at ease. Within better to be blind, because the tions and many, many others. JP minutes of speaking and listening things we see and experience, our has used his experience to shape to JP I knew that he was a man increased expectations, can all acthe public image of his clients, an with a lot of good to share with tually be the cause of our shortimage that JP will never get to see others so I arranged to have him comings. When my friends had interviewed at his office…I needed better clothing, food and games himself, because JP is blind.

JP lost his vision at the age of to know more about JP, but I nev- I closed my eyes for the moment 24 due to an allergic reaction to er imagined that I would end up and when I opened them I realized penicillin. learning more about myself. how much I really had.

I met JP back in November JP Pampena is a husband, a faSo now I am able to explain when I was invited to a char- ther, a successful business owner; why I am always happy…because ity event for the Vaughan Food he also plays piano, sends emails I grew up blind. Remember God Bank, the Royal Winter Ball (read and everything else you would not is with you, he is your light when all about it on page 44) by Robert expect from a blind person. He you are blind.

www.EnterVote.com

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Make it extra Special, with erinMillS liMouSine Erinmills Limousine is a growing luxury transportation company that has been serving the Greater Toronto Area for the last 9 years. Our highly trained chauffeurs and meticulously maintained vehicles ensure a memorable experience for all your special occasions.

At Erinmills Limousine, our success is measured by your success. We understand the importance of each and every trip you entrust us with and so we work hard every day to delight you with our executive transportation services. Make it extra special, with Erinmills Limousine.

open 24 hourS to Serve You Better!

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www.TopChoiceAwards.com

905-822-9996 • www.erinmillslimo.com

INSIDE THE PARTY BUS

Peter Maslanka, owner of Erin Mills Limousine, kicks back with the company’s 3rd Top Choice Award.

“At Erin Mills we are the real deal, from the elegance of a Rolls Royce to the possibilities of a Party Bus, we’ve got you covered!” www.EnterVote.com

Top Choice WINTER 2010

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The search for the lost treasures of the multicultural communities in Toronto has begun...

Proudly Presents

Vote for your favourite businesses and professionals

@ www.EnterVote.com

The winners will be awarded on November 6th, 2010 @ Luxy Entertainment Complex A Top Choice Media Group Production in Association with Luxy and Ramiro Productions

Event

Multicultural

Top Choice Awards

A

lthough we praise multiculturalism in Canada it is sometimes hard to surrender ourselves to the full enjoyment of the cultures that surround us, but on Friday, November 6th, 2009 all that changed! Ethnic businesses and professionals from across the cultural spectrum of the Greater Toronto Area gathered to celebrate excellence in business at the 4th Annual Multicultural Top Choice Awards.

On the world stage, multiculturalism is often doubted and renowned all in the same breath.

It brings hope of cultural integration and the optimism for cultural tolerance, but it is also faced with social and political bias and the issue of potentially diluting the heritages of the integrated cultures. Sometimes the idea as a whole seems unnecessary and nigh impossible. But there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel and countless individuals and

organizations who hold multiculturalism close to heart and fight for its continued adoption and acceptance.

One of those organizations is Top Choice Awards and some of those individuals are David Silvestre, the company’s CEO and Monica Couto, President.

“I have always taken great pride in my culture and valued the importance of sh a r i ng it with others, at the same time I always appreciated other cult u re s e qu a l ly and enjoyed learning from them.

So when we started our award surveys back in 2004, it was natural for me to favour my own community, the Portuguese community, as the basis for the study.”

Photography by: Sam Santos / JC Pimentel Photography Stage production by: Sound Production and Lighting

says Mr. Silvestre. “Things were going great but I always had this multicultural idea sitting in the back of my mind, just waiting to get out – I thought that we should bring the survey to other communities and instead of separating them, mix them together.”- David Silvestre. ‘‘Our Goal is to create understanding and resonate national harmony by promoting the positive aspects and impacts of multiculturalism in Canada as well as promote Canada as a key destination to create and sustain businesses across all sectors of industry, despite race, colour, religion and cultural background.”Monica Couto, President of Top Choice Awards.

Upon entering the “universal” themed ballroom, guests marvelled over the ice sculpture centre pieces that adorned each table

This “hopeless” idea is now a reality as Top Choice Awards recently finished the annual awards gala, for the 4th consecutive year, named appropriately: The Multicultural Top Choice Awards. This annual awards gala celebrates the achievement of Top Businesses and Professionals in the Greater Toronto Area – with international ventures in the near future – from across the cultural fabric. Upon entering the “universal” themed ballroom, guests marvelled over the ice sculpture centre pieces that adorned each table. As they made their way to their seats the were greeted with energetic beams of light that danced around the room, made all the more vibrant by the haze that enveloped the stage. One-by-one nearly 60 awards were presented, each recipient was different than the last, but they all shared a moment of recognition in a room full of winners.

3-page photo gallery starts on next page www.EnterVote.com

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2

1 Dr. Draw (Eugene Draw) performing 1

2 Dick Howard (TSN) - Lifetime Achievement Award 3 AxĂŠ Capoeira

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5

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4 Breakfast Television (CityTV) - Top TV Morning Show 5 St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic - Event Sponsor 6 Sean Kearley (Canadian Linen & Uniform Service) 4

8 Toronto Sun - Top Newspaper (GTA) 9 Whatever Magazine 10 Danny Fernandes -

7 John Worden (Hakim Optical)

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Top Male Music Artist 11 ILAC - Event Sponsor

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14 15

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12 JC Pimentel Photography - Top Photography Studio 13 Samba Brasil Entertainment 14 The view of Toronto from the venue, the entire event was projected outside 15 The Z103.5 Morning Show - Top Radio Morning Show 16 Corpo e Alma (OMN) 17 Carlo Coppola - Top Italian Singer

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18 Izadora Izzi enjoys an appetizer with the live statue 19 TLN (Top Hispanic TV Programming) interview David Silvestre, CEO of Top Choice Awards and Monica Couto, President of Top Choice Awards 20 Henrik Cipriano - Top Portuguese Male Music Artist 21 Daniel Alvarez 22 Monica having a laugh with Chris Bowman and Andrew Tulk 18

(The Law Office of Andrew B. Tulk, Q.C.) 23 Rugcutterz Danz Artz - Top Dance Academy (GTA)

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More Photos on page 41 www.EnterVote.com

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JP Pampena, “Man with the Vision”

Shares His Dream for a New Toronto If I’m elected Mayor of Toronto in 2010, I promise to always act in the best interests of the city and its citizens and to run my administration in an open and transparent way and to use common sense and logic in all my decisions.

I will strive to accomplish my goals to the best of my abilities during my tenure as Mayor of this great city of ours. And as Mayor, I plan to assemble a team of the most creative and innovative minds in the city to help me achieve these goals.

To learn more about my initiatives visit To learn more about my initiatives visit www.JPForMayor.com

www.JPForMayor.ca or call 416-638-4995 ext 311

Event

For w inner bios, photos and info v isit

w w w.TopChoice Awards.com/w inners www.EnterVote.com

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There’s no time like show time!

Sound Production and Lighting (SPL) is a professional audio, lighting, staging and multi-media company equipped for any live events such as concerts, churches, outdoor festivals, conventions, corporate seminars and theatre productions.

Luciano Nobili

For over 35 years Luciano worked as a professional musician across Canada. The experience Luciano has gained as a live and recording studio musician and producer is noticeable on site by the way he can trouble shoot any issue and keep his cool. He knows the stage struggle that musicians always fear... a bad mix.

David Nobili

David was born into the industry, has grown up with all the changes in the business and is no stranger to pressure.

David is a lighting designer who has worked on some elaborate and high profile shows across North America.

Luciano

David

Got questions? Need Ideas? Drop us a line.

(416) 402-1205

shows@soundproductionlighting.com 42

Top Choice WINTER 2010

Shows & Clients Top Choice Award • Caledon Breast Cancer Foundation • Luxy Night Club • Hyundia Canada • Insight for Living • Pakistan Canada Trade Show • Royal Le Page • Our Lady Peace • Hedley • Theory • 50 Cent • Marcello Neves • Carribana • Tastes of Danforth • Punjab Concerts Prod.

Learn more about SPL at: www.SoundProductionLighting.com Top Choice WINTER 2010

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The man of the hour The inspirational story of Peter Wixson (centre), Director of the Vaughan Food Bank, was the reason why so many people opened their heart to give support

The Royal Winter Ball 2009 A night of royalty, a night for charity Monica Couto

N

ovember 28th, 2009 - It was a cold night in Vaughan when warmhearted people from across the city gathered for The Royal Winter Ball. The event was hosted at the illustrious Venetian Banquet and Hospitality Centre and upon entering the venue guests were swept away to the Renaissance era, embraced by characters, music and decor of that time. However this “royal treatment� was not enough for anyone to forget the real purpose of the event, which was to raise funds for the Vaughan Food Bank.

You might think that an event such as this would be slow-paced, but it was actually the complete opposite. Due in part to the great work of the emcee for the eve-

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www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Event ning Melissa DiMarco. First up for entertainment were Tenor Andrea Garofolo and Soprano Adele Kozak who performed “A Tribute To Luciano Pavarotti & Maria Callas.” Their performance set the stage for Peter Wixson, Director of the Vaughan Food Bank, who gave a tearful speech and represented the charity with humility and shared his gratitude for everyone in attendance. The magical event closed with a fashion show, dance performances and the raffle prize draw.

The Royal Winter Ball was an event that truly lived up to its promise of a royal night and judging by the look on everyone’s faces, it is an event that will be even more successful next year and be an even bigger contributor to such a great cause. •

Portuguese and Italian style bread

Baked fresh daily

Eats - Deli Trays, Hot Table, Pizza

Sweets - Cakes, Pastries, Home-made Ice Cream & Cafe

905-303-7900 • www.PombalenseBakery.com

www.EnterVote.com

Jane St

20 Cranston Park Ave. in Maple

ham

ning

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Dr

20

ie Dr

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r Mac

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d

nR

hto

ug

Na

Mc

Keele St

Cranston Park Ave

Visit us today! Open 7 days a week • 6am-8pm

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Awarded the 2009 Top Choice Award, The Mississauga Grand Banquet & Convention Centre is a family owned and operated business with over 50 years of experience in banqueting. We are also Mississauga’s most central location for corporate and wedding events. Here at the Grand, it is our goal to cater to

Mavis Rd

work with you to make your even memorable in ever y way, because at the Grand it is important to us that you leave as a friend.

407

410 401

Dixie Rd

Derry Rd

Hurontario St

your ever y need. We have a committed team ready to

Britannia Rd

The Mississauga Grand Banqut & Convention Centre is

Brunel Rd

equipped to accommodate your most intimate occassion to the grandest of functions of up to 650 guests. The 20,000 sq.ft. of total space is ideal for large weddings, dinner & dancing and can be divided into 3 rooms for intimate gatherings. Our parking lot holds up to 650 vehicles and we are conveniently located within walking distance of 3 major hotels.

35 Brunel Road Mississauga, ON L4Z 3E8 Tel: 905-501-0043 Fax: 905-501-0310

w w w.MississaugaGrand.com

Eglinton Ave

403

Burnhamthorpe Rd

TOP CHOICE Reasons to Study English in Canada When you want to study abroad, you want to get your education in an ideal country. Like no other country, Canada is the best place to study for the following TOP reasons: Canada: Best Place in the World

Quality Education at Affordable Prices

Canada’s cities consistently rank TOP for best quality of life in the world. There are safe neighbourhoods, excellent transportation and a worldclass higher education system.

Canada’s cities offer professional sports, recreational pursuits and cultural activities.

Canada’s university system ranks among the best in the world, while at the same time, offers international students affordable tuition fees and living costs. The cost of tuition at a Canadian university ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 which is far lower than comparative tuition in the US or UK. Canada offers

Why Study in Canada?

Just Ask a Student

It was really amazing! My biggest concern was the free time ... what would I do after school? Fortunately there was always something to do. You can go shopping, walking around Toronto, participate in any festival, watch a movie, see the High Park or The Beaches and relax. Visit museums or art galleries or just be with your friends walking and talking.

All these activities allow me to learn a new culture. That is why I chose Canada, to learn something new about this nice country, about the culture and meet people from all over the world. Canada met my needs and expectations and that is why I was happy there.”

Tomas from Czech Republic

“Why Study English in Canada??

I am from Europe so I had many opportunities where to go. I was in England and it was really bad for me because a lot of people from Europe were there and from my country. Therefore, I decided to go to study in Canada because it is one of the safest countries in the world.

I was really surprised when I arrived in Canada and entered into the new world. Everybody is friendly. Let me give you an example, I was with my friends in the subway trying to find the way to go downtown and one woman asked us if we needed help.

Tomas

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“I came to Toronto because it has a lot of people from different countries and I wanted to meet other cultures.

People here are more friendly than in other places, so don’t worry you will always have someone to help you here. Toronto is very safe, so you can walk in the streets at night and nothing happens.

So if you want to have fun, cultural

world-class universities, such as McGill, University of Toronto and University of British Columbia which are renowned world wide and consistently highly ranked against well-know Ivy League schools in the US or Oxford and Cambridge in the UK. In addition, all Canadian universities offer excellent education which is different in other countries, like the US, UK or Australia.

and interesting attractions, and shopping you need to come to Toronto. I love this city.”

Luce from Mexico

Luce

“Canada is one of the best countries in the world. It is very young and multicultural. Canada makes me feel comfortable and very safe as people are very friendly and helpful.

Here there are four strong seasons, summer which is beautiful, green and warm; fall is fantastic with leaves changing to wonderful different colors; winter brings a lot of winter sports, like skiing and skating, also hockey is very interesting to watch; and spring brings many flowers. So, Canada welcomes everyone from www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Not only the universities, but Canada’s college system, high school programs, and English language schools all offer superior education at comparatively affordable prices.

Safe Cities

Multicultural and Welcoming

Work Opportunities

Canada has a policy of encouraging multicultural diversity. Students who come to Canada are surprised to experience friendly citizens and safe streets. Students, like immigrants, feel welcomed and at home very quickly in Canada.

We are waiting for you!

Canada’s cities are very safe.

In addition to walking on our streets, Canada offers a very safe public transportation system.

International students who study at ILAC are well-prepared to enter a Canadian university or college.

After graduation, they have the opportunity to work legally in Canada. Also, international students can work on campus while studying at university or college.

Jonathan Kolber Executive Director jonathan@ilac.com Iara Rudy Communications Manager iara@ilac.com ILAC Toronto

920 Yonge St., 4th Floor Toronto, ON M4W 3C7 Canada Phone: +1.416.961.5151

ILAC Vancouver

688 West Hastings, 3rd Floor Vancouver, BC V6B 1P1 Canada Phone: +1.604.484.6660

E Y E W E E K LY

Reader’s Choice2005

Winner!

2009/08/07 LTM Star

English Language School North America

2009/08/07 Top Choice Top Language School of the Year

every nation, it doesn’t matter your color, religion, which country you are from or your sexual orientation.”

Henrique from Brazil

2005 Eye Weekly

Best Language School in Toronto

visitors and residents can enjoy their lives in a safe environment. Canada has good energy! People are happy and very friendly. It is a country that makes you want to stay longer. It is impossible not to go back to Canada.

Alex from Brazil

Hassan

many others. I love Canada a lot and I am planning to stay for quite a while.”

Hassan from Saudi Arabia

“I’ve chosen Canada to Study English because it is a multicultural country.

I can find Korean food at any corner so when I want to have the food that I had at home it is very easy! Canada

Henrique

“The place I have decided to stay in Canada is Toronto. There are many reasons why I came to Toronto. There is a lot of excitement in downtown Toronto, all the tourist attractions, multiculturalism and friendly people.

There are a lot of buildings and lots of cool things to do such as going to Canada’s Wonderland, observing the ancient art at the ROM, and of course rising up to the top of the CN Tower. There are also other places in Ontario that are near Toronto such as Montreal, Ottawa, Niagara Falls and www.EnterVote.com

“When I arrived in Canada I couldn’t believe my eyes! Canada is a beautiful country and the government really cares about the infrastructure so it keeps the country in good condition so

Yae-jin

Alex

also gives me the opportunity to know other cultures. This country is opened to receive all people from anywhere in the world, so everybody feels that they belong to Canada.”

Yae-jin from South Korea Top Choice WINTER 2010

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Customized Financial Solutions

P

roud to accept a Top Choice Award for being the best financial security advisor within Toronto’s Portuguese community for the third year in a row Pedro Maia, founder of Maia & Associates Inc has expanded his business and the services that he brings to his clients.

Maia is all about customer service. He believes each client is unique and each situation is different. He believes that each client deserves a

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financial plan customized to meet his individual needs and requirements. He believes that “Knowledge is Power” and knowledgeable clients make better decisions. Joining him to make this happen is Sean Beneteau, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional with many years spent in management positions in the financial and insurance industry. Margot Bourque an Elder Planning Counselor and debt management expert

with nine years experience in the insurance industry and with over twenty-five years experience in the financial services industry. Together with Barry Stewart, an associated financial security advisor and member of the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table, associated advisors Seanna Magee and Carlos Almeida and marketing associates Jennifer Fernandes and Emily Cassidy they bring a wealth of knowledge and

experience to Maia’s clients. In March of 2009 the team moved to their new premises at 255 Duncan Mill Road, Suite 512, North York Ontario.

Maia invites anyone interested in improving their financial situation or someone who just wants a no obligation, second opinion to give him or his associates a call at 416-916-7400.

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

RRSP Life Insurance Disability & Critical Illness Insurance Registered Education Funds Estate Planning Investment Planning

Meet the President & Founder “The biggest misconception people have about insurance is that it’s expensive. It’s not.

It’s expensive not to have it if something happens.”

Pedro M. Maia Born in Lisbon, Maia realized that many Portuguese people place undue trust in their Financial Security Advisors. Maia makes it his mission to educate customers on the products and services they have bought or are buying. He gives customers options and spends hours educating them. He compares himself to Mike Holmes, a contractor on television’s Holmes on Homes, who tries to fix the damage already inflicted on people’s homes. Similarly, Maia looks out for people and guides them to fix

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potential problems and achieve their dreams.

His firm provides full financial services including insurance, financial and estate planning and conservation, mortgages and loans. Well connected both inside and outside the Portuguese community, Maia helps his clients find many other services too.

In regards to insurance, he says, “The biggest misconception people have about insurance is that it’s expensive. It’s not. It’s expensive not to have it if something happens.”

Three-time recipient for Financial Advisor of the year

T. 416.916.7400 F. 416.916.7676 Direct. 416.419.5954

We’ve Moved!

255 Duncan Mills Rd, Suite 512 North York, Ontario M3B 3H9

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Toronto from Afar The view of the city from Lake Ontario is must-see material

Jaymor Group Boat Cruise Have trouble getting people to attend your event? Host a boat cruise and you will be fighting them off with a stick!

David Silvestre

W

hen you get a lot of invitations to attend parties like we do a Top Choice, you have to pick and choose which ones to go to, not because you like one person or company over the other, but often simply because it fits in with your schedule. If you are a business owner you know exactly what I am talking about and if you happen to have a large family or many friends, then you too probably have this “problem”. I have to let you in on a little secret we learned from Jaymor Group, if you want all your guests to show up at your event, host it on a boat!

Nothing gets rid of the “been there done that” attitude like a cruise around Lake Ontario on a warm Summer evening and that’s exactly what happened back in August of 2009. Jaymor Group, known for their 20 years of successful Real Estate investments and developments, have worked with many high-profile business people throughout the years, many of whom they consider family. So to celebrate another successful year they wanted to host an event that would blow guests out of the water (or in this case on to the water) and decided to host their event on an amazing yacht and cruise around the lake.

As the cruise begins what would you expect 300 business-minded people to be talking about? Well since “recession” is a buzzword nowadays, the economy quickly became a hot topic.

As the night passed by it was a magical experience. I can tell you that there is nothing more relaxing than a warm breeze in your face, a jazzy tune in your ear and the smooth taste of fine wine on your lips. As the sun sets on the horizon and the lights of the city begin to open their eyes, it seems like the talks of the economy have had a “recession” of their own.

continued on 54

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Event

Residential Projects: THE BLADE CONDOMINIUM PROJECT 45 Railroad Street, Brampton, ON 25 storey high rise residential / commercial retail development 346 residential dwelling units 286,900 square feet of residential and 18,000 square feet of commercial retail area Sirlin Giller & Malek (SG&M) Architects is an intermediate-sized firm with a dedicated, technically skilled staff who have extensive expertise in commercial, industrial, retail, and high-rise, high-density residential developments in the GTA. Sirlin Giller & Malek Architects has well over 35 years of experience and is committed to contributing their design and construction knowledge to any project ensuring that quality control and client service are never compromised.

creativity

|

aesthetics

|

function

|

2009 Top Choice Award Winner

diversity

416.781.6125 • www.sgm-arch.com

200-272 Lawrence Avenue West Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5M 4M1

www.EnterVote.com

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continued from 54 I could have stayed on deck the whole night, but the smell of dinner inside the ship was too good to resist. Dinner and dessert would be more than enough to finish off this awakening of my senses, but Jaymor Group still had a few aces up their sleeve. After a message of appreciation to the guests in attendance, Fab Lucchese, CEO of Jaymore Group tells the audience “It is time to really get this party started, please welcome Samba Brasil!” TIP: If you want to get your guests out of their seats, bring along Samba Dancers, it works every time!

So as the boat makes its way back to shore the event comes to an end, but judging by the spirit of everyone who attended, it won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

Many thanks to Jaymor Group for hosting such a great event and next time you have a cruise, I just want to say that I can make room in my schedule. •

416-535-0416

Give yourself some room!!!

• Need storaGe? • safe & secure • $2 .30/ foot 2 • uNits from as low as $80

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Top Choice WINTER 2010

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Asks:

What price do you put on safety?

The safety of your business and assets

The safety of your home and family Since 1990 United Alarm has been servicing over 28,567 homes and businesses in Calgary marketplace. United Alarm System Inc is ranked number 1 in Volume for Alarm and CCTV installations. United also is the largest privately owned alarm company in Alberta. United Alarm is among 3 other companies in Calgary to have met the standards to be approved by the Underwriters Laboratories (ULC) for both Burglary, Fire and monitoring services. United Alarm is known as an accredited member of the BBB. In short, we can provide the best Equipment at the best price and have the track record to back it!

United installments meet all of Canada standards. ULC is an independent, not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization. We’ve tested products for public safety for more than 80 years and are accredited by the Standards Council of Canada, under the National Standards System.

The United Alarm service area includes The Greater Toronto Area, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Kelowna, Vancouver and the Kelowna Valley. We currently have an office in Las Vegas and are expanding to Phoenix and the San Diego in 2009.

Consumers’ Choice Award and Top Choice Award recipient for #1 Alarm Services of 2009

(403) 261-8838 WWW.UNITEDALARm.CA

House Alarms

Commercial Systems

Closed Circuit TV

Top Aquarium Superstore INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BIG AL’S AQUARIUM SUPERCENTRES - Big Al’s sells approximately 15,000,000 fish per year and growing!

- Big Al’s serves over 20,000 customers per week.

- Big Al’s has more sharks on display than any other Aquarium Store, aside from Sea-Aquariums.

- Presently Big Al’s has over 400,000 VIP Customers and growing.

BIG AL’S EDMONTON OWNERS BRIAN & NANCY NELSON

Big Al’s Aquarium Supercentres 7 8 0 - 4 3 5 - 3 4 7 4 • www.BigAlsCanada.com 3511 - 99 Street Edmonton, AB 56

Top Choice WINTER 2010

www.TopChoiceAwards.com

For the second time, Big Al's Edmonton has won the Top Choice Award "Mark of Excellence" and for a fourth time, the Consumer's Choice Award for Business Excellence in their category. "These awards are a tribute to the effort, knowledge, and customer service the employees at Big Al's bring to their work everyday", says manager Damon Jones.

Big Al’s Edmonton owners

Nancy and Brian Nelson have opened their

second

13,000 square foot

state-of-the-art location at

2020- 32 Ave NE inCalgary, just off the Deerfoot Trail

near the Airport.

Big Al’s Aquarium Supercentres opened in Edmonton in September 2002, and has attracted thousands of loyal customers since then, "Our base is over 15,000 customers. It's pretty impressive, how many people we have coming in and how many return customers we have", says Jones. "I give credit to my awesome staff" says co-owner Nancy Nelson "We have a number of people who have been with us since the start, and they are really the backbone of the business."

It is one of the largest aquatic retail superstores in Canada, second to their new Calgary location, covering 8,000 square feet with massive display areas that showcases the store's impressive selection of aquariums. There are over 500 different fish species in stock, including more exotic species, like a wide variety of piranhas, stingrays, freshwater and saltwater species.

They also carry seahorses, a large range of corals, moray eels, some sharks to sell, and a full range of related products at guaranteed lowest prices.

"We are experts in all things fishy and scaly,” With some exciting news this year is the addition of a full range of reptiles and reptile products. Big Al's Edmonton has it all, from basic starter reptiles up to the exotics like dart frogs and some exotic snakes.

Tuesday night at 7pm is the Shark Feeding Frenzy that includes three leopard sharks, a bamboo shark, and a banded shark. “It’s a great show. There are nights that we get 100 people here."

"Many customers start out with a small fishbowl as something for their kids, but they soon expand their aquarium setup," Jones notes, "In many homes, customers install fish tanks up to 300 gallons. Their aquarium becomes the showpiece by creating an aquascape that becomes part of the décor."

Big Al’s Edmonton owners Nancy and Brian Nelson have opened their second 13,000 square foot state-ofthe-art location at 2020- 32 Ave NE in Calgary, just off the Deerfoot Trail near the Airport.

In Edmonton, visit Big Al’s Aquarium at 3511- 99 Street, or call them at (780) 435-FISH to find out how you can succumb to the lure of keeping your own aquarium.

www.EnterVote.com

PROUD RECIPIENT OF THE TOP CHOICE AWARD FOR TOP AQUARIUM SUPERSTORE • EDMONTON 2009

EDMONTON’S TOP CHOICE

Top Choice WINTER 2010

57

Award

Sharing Statistics of Success Over 1,000 associates gather at the Wal-Mart head office in Mississauga, Ontario for Wal-Mart’s monthly meeting

Wal-Mart on Top!

Walmart voted Top Department Store by the Ethnic Communities of the GTA! Press Release January 5th, 2009 - Toronto Walmart has been known for their competitive prices, with their “Save money. Live better” slogan, so there’s really no doubt to why Walmart was voted Top Department Store by the ethnic communities of the GTA. Throughout the past few years, Walmart Canada has been increasing its initiatives to encourage diversity amongst its employees. By hiring individuals who reflect the local community, result in a team that is equipped to engage a nd ser ve lo ca l customers.

Since the opening of its very first store back in 1962, Walmart has been providing discount prices on a variety of services from supercenters to restaurants to its customers, with products ranging from electronics to baby products and everything in between.

Top Choice Awards is an important institution for the local and international business scene.

Through research and democratic polling in top cities around the

58

Top Choice WINTER 2010

globe with the singular purpose of identifying and promoting businesses and professionals who have risen above their competition and earned the people’s vote.

Walmart Canada is certainly a prime example of a top Business and it goes to show by winning the Top Choice Award for Top Department Store.

Top Choice Awards welcomes Walmart Canada to the Top!

About Wal-Mart

Facing the crowd David Silvestre and Monica Couto present the award to a fired up crowd of over 1,000 Wal-Mart associates

Thanking the communities Wal-Mart accepts the award on behalf of retailers accross Canada

Walmart serves customers and members more than 200 million times per week at more than 8,159 retail units under 55 different banners in 15 countries. With fiscal year 2009 sales of $401 billion, Walmart employs more than 2.1 million associates worldwide.

A leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity, Walmart ranked first among retailers in Fortune Magazine’s 2009 Most Admired Companies survey.

Another one For the Trophy Case!

(left to right) Monica Couto, Derek Rau - Vice President GMM Hardlines for Wal-Mart, Jim Pilkington and David Silvestre

www.TopChoiceAwards.com