Top Choice Magazine - Fall 2011

Fall 2011 • Vol. 05 • No. 03

Minding Everyone’s Business™

Vaughan’s

Super Mayor

Maurizio Bevilacqua An inside look at Bevilacqua’s role in transforming Vaughan into a world class city PAGE 10

PLUS:

ILAC Wins Again!

Top Choice TIFF 2011 Awards 2011 Coverage

Cold Call Survival

5-Time Top Choice

Over 350 winners!

Guide to success

Photo: Top Choice Magazine $4.99CAN • www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

The best of the Fest

The digital camera revolution has created a new breed of photographer. From children to grandparents, everyone has a camera yet few of the images ever escape from the confines of the computer screen. How about a 6-foot canvas extolling the virtues of your beauty? Such a piece is non-existent in these digital times, yet this is what Maggie Habieda Nowakowski produces every day.

Timeless art is much more meaningful than a landscape or a vase of flowers, it becomes a treasured family heirloom. Maggie will make you look and feel like royalty, her quest is to absolutely satisfy her clients and treat them like celebrities. She will forever change your mind about how you can look in a photograph.

www.fotografiaboutique.ca

T: 905 338 3686

1525 Cornwall Road, Unit 1 Oakville, On

Table of Contents

iLAc takes “Boutique” Approach

FeAtureS

Section

toc_title

FeaTure

6

ILAC Takes “Boutique” Approach Canada’s most recognized language school continues to push boundaries by reinventing the “liguistic tourism” experience with new boutique schools Founded, inspired and managed by three talented individuals, ILAC The Top university pathway is surpassing all expectations any language program award, 5 time school could have. In just 14 years, ILAC has achieved international pre-eminence winner given by Top Choice and is now Canada’s top English school. awards (TCa), mark of With relaxed boutique-style campuses excellence, The Japan Best coupled with rigorous academic standards, the International Language Academy of school award as number 1 Canada (ILAC) is changing the way English in Canada, given by ryugaku as a Second Language is approached, and setting a new standard in the burgeoning Journal, The Toronto Best industry known affectionately as “linguisschool award, 2011 and tic tourism”.

The first and only language institution on top of that iLaC was Section toc_title in the world to win the coveted Lifetime included in the platinum Super Star Award, in recognition for having won the LTM Star English Language Club Finalist in the Canada’s School (North America) for five consecutive years, but ILAC has won more and 50 Best managed Companies more recognitions and prestigious awards program by deloitte, CiBC, through the years. national post and Queen One of the largest language schools in school of Business. the world, ILAC has been the recipient of numerous industry honours.

Vaughan’s Super Mayor

Feature

6

Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

But, a high standard of education is not the only thing that ILAC delivers to its students. ILAC’s eight ultra-modern campuses dot the bustling downtowns of Canada’s two most important English-speaking cities, Toronto and Vancouver.

Employing more than 370 teachers and administrative staff, and indirectly providing income to more than 1,500 Canadian families through its revolutionary “homestay” programme (which offers students the chance to live with Canadian families during their stay), ILAC is a wholly Canadian-owned company whose success rests heavily on the strong connections it has made with educational agencies around the globe.

The school caters to the full spectrum of an increasingly insatiable hunger for English competence, from general conversational skill, through the growing roster of internationally accepted English achievement tests, to the training of new English teachers. Its specialised courses include Business English, Academic English and

Fall 2011

The Mayor Inside the main hallway of Vaughan City Hall

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua is Transforming Vaughan into a World Class City indulge Hair Studios

PlaceS

Vaughan’s Super Mayor leads his municipality to success by example, not by sitting behind a desk By Sandy Caetano Marketing PlaCe

10

unlike moSt politiCal FigureS, Vaughan’s mayor is actively involved in his city’s happenings. He’s a go-getter, an individual who strives for the best and someone who makes things happen. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua is the heart of Vaughan.

Since he was sworn in as mayor on December 6th, 2010, Bevilacqua has done all he can to be a part of the community.

In one day he may attend an official opening of a new business, the inauguration of a new park, speak to students at a local school, visit a seniors’ centre, conduct an interview to promote his city with the media - he does it because he believes in what he does.

“You can’t just lead a city from behind your desk. You need to be present and

Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

care about our business community and we have a solid track record of supporting them, including low taxes. We know that their hard work helps drive our local economy, as well as create quality employment and job opportunities.”

The mayor also recognizes the efforts of businesses like Top Choice Magazine, who are all about promoting and shining a spotlight on local businesses.

“Top Choice is a great avenue to promote all that is positive about the City of Vaughan. I think it’s important to help local businesses get the word out,” says Bevilacqua. “They rely on the local economy in order to grow – they rely on us, the consumer, to tell people about where we eat, where we shop, or where we get our car repaired.”

“In today’s Vaughan, knowledge is key and this publication offers a lot of wisdom in that regard,” he continues. “Top Choice understands that it plays an important role in our city - generating awareness and promoting the very best of what Vaughan has to offer.”

So what’s the secret to being mayor of a city like Vaughan? For Mayor Bevilacqua, public service is not a job, it’s a vocation.

“I am anchored to the sound values of dignity, integrity and respect for our citizens. There really is no secret - this is what I love to do, it is what I was born to do,” he says. “I think one of most exciting aspects of politics today is the evolution of cities – they are becoming the magnets for investment, creating jobs, providing the quality of life and standard of living for the peopleBusiness – it’s been a greatness very fascinating experience.”

Fall 2011

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Pamper Yourself, Indulge Your Hair Written by sandy Caetano Photos by Maggie Habieda nowakowski

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2

So what does it take to survive in the hair industry?

“Patience, drive, dedication and passion - it’s a lot of work and it’s scary, but I’m ready to take it all on,” she says. “If you’re going to be successful, you also have to treat your staff with respect…you want to know when you’re not there, that you have a team who will back you up, a team that shares the same passions you do.”

Tamburello-Capone prides herself on her relationship building with each of her unique clients. Customer service is critical in any business, but especially in hair salons. It’s about making your clients feel at home the minute they walk in the door.

But that’s not all that’s offered at Indulge.

Indulge works exclusively with L’Oreal Professional, an excellent source with a reliable line of products you can trust both at the salon and at home. This skillful hair team provides their clients with the tools and knowledge they need to properly maintain healthy, beautiful hair.

Though they keep up-to-date with the latest cutting-edge hair styles, they use them as a base to create their own unique fashion trends.

“I want people to come in here and walk out happy, and of course I want them to spread the word - Indulge is about spoiling yourself, it’s about pampering, it’s about class and elegance.”

Indulge HaIr StudIoS Inc.

9461 Jane St., Unit 104 Vaughan, On

Sara Tamburello-Capone, Lead Stylist and Owner of Indulge Hair Studios Inc.

Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Vaughan’s Super Mayor: Maurizio Bevilacqua

24

Pamper Yourself at Indulge Hair Studios

Indulge Hair Studio, your hair is their masterpiece

styling Hair Wasn’t WHat Sara Tamburello-Capone had in mind for her career. She wanted to get into law enforcement.

Two totally different careers - a police officer versus a hairstylist - the latter of the two is the path she grew into loving.

Tamburello-Capone started working at a hair salon when she was 16. It was only supposed to be a part-time job to help her pay her way through school.

When she graduated from highschool, she took a year off and continued working at the salon. It was then that she realized hairstyling was her real passion. It gave her an outlet to let her creativity flow.

“I really wanted to be a cop, not a hairdresser,” says Tamburello-Capone. “After I was done school, things just started getting busy for me, and I began getting a lot of clients, especially bridal parties.”

“So I thought this could be a good career, I was really starting to like what I was doing,” she continues. “It allowed me to be creative with up-do’s and especially colouring, mixing shades - it’s artwork.”

Hairstyling became more than just washing, cutting and blowdrying - she was given a blank canvas and the right tools, and by the time she was complete, each new client became a new conquered masterpiece.

Tamburello-Capone studied at Marca College - Toronto Hair Design and Esthetics School and has been a licensed hair stylist ever since. She’s worked in several salons and built her clientele, but it wasn’t enough - she had to have her own place.

Now she’s celebrating the grand opening of Indulge Hair Studio Inc., a boutique located in Vaughan that will give your precious locks the proper care they deserve!

At Indulge, they strongly believe that your hair is an extension of your personality.

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7

Vaughan’s new state-of-the-art City Hall, which opened in September 2011 is an important part of Vaughan’s ever-evolving community. functions he attends, the more he is left in awe of the citizens of Vaughan. “in today’S Vaughan, “I want them to know that because of knowledge iS them I am hopeful and confident about the future of the city,” says Bevilacqua. “As well, key and thiS I want them to know that I respect them a puBliCation oFFerS great deal and that by working together we can achieve success.” a lot oF wiSdom The City of Vaughan is a growing community; one of the fastest growing cities in in that regard,” Canada right now. Bevilacqua has a plan he ContinueS. “top set in motion to support, and adapt to, this growth; one that will put a focus on ChoiCe underStandS pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods, an urban approach to new developments, and that it playS an a focus on job creation. important role in This plan includes a new downtown, the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, where the our city - generating Spadina subway extension will bring the subway to Vaughan. It includes plans for awareneSS and complete communities focused around herpromoting the itage villages and other local centres, linked by public transit; and it includes proviVery BeSt oF sions for protecting existing residential and what Vaughan employment areas. A plan for the Vaughan hospital was also recently approved by the haS to oFFer.” provincial government this summer.

With the continued growth of the community, comes the addition of involved in the evolution of the City by pay- new businesses. Mayor Bevilacqua says ing tribute to the citizens of this great city this is because Vaughan has location, a who are opening new businesses, advanc- highly-educated and diverse population, ing special causes, giving of themselves in accessibility to Canada’s largest airport, Section toc_title many different ways to bring about posi- major highways, and great public trantive change,” Bevilacqua tells Top Choice sit, the new subway coming, an approved hospital plan, and they have a solid and Magazine.

Mayor Bevilacqua is fully engaged in well-managed city government.

“In essence, we have it all in Vaughan the transformation of Vaughan - a suburban municipality he wants to change into and we work hard to support our growa world class city. The more events and ing business community,” he says. “We

Born to Win. Canada’s Most Recognized Language School ILAC

905.553.6555 www.indulgehairstudios.com sara@indulgehairstudios.com

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www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Features 6 » ILAC Takes “Boutique” Approach 10 » Vaughan’s Super Mayor 12 » Top Choice Award 2011 Winners Events 16 » Spring 2011 Magazine Launch 18 » Indulge Hair Studios Grand Opening 20 » Toronto International Film Festival 2011 Sales 22 » Cold Call Survival Guide Places 24 » Indulge Hair Studios Tips & Advice 26 » The New Era of Minimally Invasive Facial Enhancement 28 » Maintaining a Pain-free Life 30 » Alternative Health, Alternative Results 34 » What is the Right Business Vehicle for Me? 36 » Putting Your Net Worth on the Fast Track 38 » The Duties of a Mortgage Broker 40 » Supreme Collision Centre boosts customer confidence.

42 » Selecting Your Wedding’s Dinner Style 44 » Happy Travel Tips: Safety and Security 46 » Renovation and Remodeling Projects by Absolute Interior 48 » Why Should You Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned?

50 » Money-saving Energy Tips 52 » Have a Drain Blockage in Your Home?

54 » Hiring A Roofing Contractor: 4 Secrets You Should Know 56 » The Man Behind Robert Design Group

Top Choice Magazine 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!

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 Toll-free: 1-866-771-9743 Tel. 416 662 2123 www.topchoicemagazine.com

Follow Us

Food 58 » Recipe: Golden Portuguese-Style Cod Fish Business Reviews 62 » Business Reviews Business 66 » Overcoming Business Doubts www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

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Fall 2011

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Message From The Editor

David Silvestre Publisher

Managing Editor Monica Couto Art Director Michael Fillier Accountant Executive Sal Verri Sales Manager Fay Xuan Graphic Designers Michael Fillier Photographers Sam Santos George Pimentel Maggie Habieda Nowakowski Writers Sandy Caetano Francesca Filippelli Monica Couto David Silvestre Marco Luccisano Business Review Specialists Sandy Caetano Francesca Filippelli Editor Marco Luccisano

Presenting the award for Top Radio Program (Morning Show) of 2011 to The Dean Blundell Show of 102.1 The Edge

It’s that time of the year again when we look back and examine our past actions, re-focus our current goals, and improve our future path to the best of our ability.

Most business owners will portray their business product and/ or service as the leading brand in whatever category they fall under. For the past six years, we have asked the public what they think about the many types of services and products in their city.

The results speak louder than any self-affirmations!

In this issue you will find the “cream of the crop” from six different cities spanning the GTA, including Toronto, Vaughan, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, and Richmond Hill. Every page is full of passion and important information that can help you save time and money!

These are reputable businesses that, for many years, have shown improvement and have strived to maintain their leadership status... their motivation and determination continuously inspire others.

In keeping pace with the elite, we, at Top Choice Media, are continually improving and expanding our corporate vision. As a result, we are proud to announce that Los Angeles and New York City have been selected to be surveyed by Top Choice Media in the coming months.

The question is “what are you doing to improve your personal life or business?”. Maybe it’s time to offer resolution by reflecting upon the fact that no matter who, or where, we are there is always room for improvement and ways of helping others by doing so.

When people ask me what was the one thing that most impacted my life this past year (2011), I reply by saying: one of my clients, and also a good friend of mine, offered his time to explain to me that his life experience is the most important thing in life.

He said, out loud, “INFORMATION”.

From that day on I changed the way I look at life and have made wiser decisions. Health, fortune, peace and love won’t encompass your life and stay with you if you don’t have the right information!

My suggestion is to surround yourself with the successful and the wise so you may receive their information and become like them; counsel the complainers and the confused in the hopes that you may become their wise guide to follow you along a brighter, prosperous path.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your time and I trust this magazine has the right information to lead you to self improvement.

Top regards, David Silvestre, Publisher of Top Choice Magazine

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Fall 2011

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Welcome to your new Office Serving the TORONTO area, PARAMOUNT FINE CARS, with 2 locations in the GTA, is your premier retailer of Preowned vehicles. Our dedicated sales staff and top-trained technicians are here to make your auto shopping experience fun, easy and financially advantageous. You can visit us online at www.ParamountFineCars.ca and utilize our various online resources to allow our excellent network of people to put you in your ideal car, truck or SUV today!

Paramount FINE Cars

4467 Chesswood Dr, Toronto,ON m3j 2C2 • 1 (888) 872-9491 1023 Finch Ave, Toronto, ON M3J 3L4 • (416) 663-5151 www.ParamountFineCars.ca

Feature

6

Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

ILAC Takes “Boutique” Approach Canada’s most recognized language school continues to push boundaries by reinventing the “liguistic tourism” experience with new boutique schools Founded, inspired and managed by three talented individuals, ILAC is surpassing all expectations any language school could have. In just 14 years, ILAC has achieved international pre-eminence and is now Canada’s top English school.

With relaxed boutique-style campuses coupled with rigorous academic standards, the International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC) is changing the way English as a Second Language is approached, and setting a new standard in the burgeoning industry known affectionately as “linguistic tourism”.

The first and only language institution in the world to win the coveted Lifetime Super Star Award, in recognition for having won the LTM Star English Language School (North America) for five consecutive years, but ILAC has won more and more recognitions and prestigious awards through the years.

One of the largest language schools in the world, ILAC has been the recipient of numerous industry honours.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

The Top University Pathway Program Award, 5 time winner given by Top Choice Awards (TCA), Mark of Excellence, The Japan Best School Award as Number 1 in Canada, given by Ryugaku Journal, The Toronto Best School Award, 2011 and on top of that ILAC was included in the Platinum Club Finalist in the Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies Program by Deloitte, CIBC, National Post and Queen School of Business.

But, a high standard of education is not the only thing that ILAC delivers to its students. ILAC’s eight ultra-modern campuses dot the bustling downtowns of Canada’s two most important English-speaking cities, Toronto and Vancouver.

Employing more than 370 teachers and administrative staff, and indirectly providing income to more than 1,500 Canadian families through its revolutionary “homestay” programme (which offers students the chance to live with Canadian families during their stay), ILAC is a wholly Canadian-owned company whose success rests heavily on the strong connections it has made with educational agencies around the globe.

The school caters to the full spectrum of an increasingly insatiable hunger for English competence, from general conversational skill, through the growing roster of internationally accepted English achievement tests, to the training of new English teachers. Its specialised courses include Business English, Academic English and

Fall 2011

7

university preparation courses. ILAC also boasts a full internship department and a university pathways programme to help guide students on their way into Canada’s higher education system.

ILAC currently receives students from more than 70 countries, making learning English at ILAC a true international experience. Since its inception in 1997, ILAC has helped more than 50,000 students from all over the world achieve their language goals, make friendships and improve the quality of their lives through the acquisition of the world’s most international language.

“We believe education should be open and that is why our state of the art facilities offer a boutique style with an open environment ideal for learning and socializing.” said Jonathan Kolber, one of the school’s directors. He continued: “ILAC

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Five-time recipient for Top University Pathway Program

is investing in top quality education for our students. We truly believe that our students deserve the best learning environment and that is why we have decided to renovate our campuses in Toronto and Vancouver.

Learning should be open and relaxed.

Our campuses are designed in a modern, boutique style that provides an openconcept atmosphere to learn and enjoy the experience of a lifetime.”

ILAC meets the rigorous standards of Languages Canada, Canada’s main language organization representing its two official languages: English and French.

Languages Canada is recognized by the Canadian government and internationally.

And with strategic partners ILAC programs and services are offered in more than 1,200 agencies around the world, creating one of the largest, if not the largest, networks in the industry.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

The school has been busily investing in its infrastructure, creating a modern boutique-style environment both stimulating and relaxing, and perfectly suited to the language learning process. But the school offers much more than classroom instruction. Its activities department work around the clock to offer students in both cities a wide range of organized outings aimed at giving them a real taste of what Canada is all about.

Expected to be completed sometime next year, the school has recently embarked upon a substantial renovation plan. Says Mr. Kolber, “We’ve opened new campuses in Toronto and Vancouver and are currently renovating our locations to give them a new modern, boutique-style atmosphere. Our facilities already provide an open environment, ideal for learning and socializing, and the new renovations will only enhance that.”

Toronto Campus

920 Yonge Street, 4th floor Toronto, ON, Canada, M4W-3C7 Tel: +1 (416) 961.5151 Fax: +1 (416) 961.5988 or + 1 (416) 961.9267

Vancouver Campus

688 West Hastings Street 3rd floor, Vancouver, BC Canada, V6B-1P1 Tel: +1 (604) 484.6660 Fax: +1 (604) 484.6637

Skype Toll Free: 1-877-452-2452 www.ilac.com • info@ilac.com

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Feature

The Mayor Inside the main hallway of Vaughan City Hall

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua is Transforming Vaughan into a World Class City Vaughan’s Super Mayor leads his municipality to success by example, not by sitting behind a desk

By Sandy Caetano

10

Fall 2011

Unlike most political figures, Vaughan’s mayor is actively involved in his city’s happenings. He’s a go-getter, an individual who strives for the best and someone who makes things happen. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua is the heart of Vaughan.

Since he was sworn in as mayor on December 6th, 2010, Bevilacqua has done all he can to be a part of the community.

In one day he may attend an official opening of a new business, the inauguration of a new park, speak to students at a local school, visit a seniors’ centre, conduct an interview to promote his city with the media - he does it because he believes in what he does.

“You can’t just lead a city from behind your desk. You need to be present and

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Vaughan’s new state-of-the-art City Hall, which opened in September 2011 is an important part of Vaughan’s ever-evolving community.

“In today’s Vaughan, knowledge is key and this publication offers a lot of wisdom in that regard,” he continues. “Top Choice understands that it plays an important role in our city - generating awareness and promoting the very best of what Vaughan has to offer.” involved in the evolution of the City by paying tribute to the citizens of this great city who are opening new businesses, advancing special causes, giving of themselves in many different ways to bring about positive change,” Bevilacqua tells Top Choice Magazine.

Mayor Bevilacqua is fully engaged in the transformation of Vaughan - a suburban municipality he wants to change into a world class city. The more events and

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

functions he attends, the more he is left in awe of the citizens of Vaughan.

“I want them to know that because of them I am hopeful and confident about the future of the city,” says Bevilacqua. “As well, I want them to know that I respect them a great deal and that by working together we can achieve success.”

The City of Vaughan is a growing community; one of the fastest growing cities in Canada right now. Bevilacqua has a plan set in motion to support, and adapt to, this growth; one that will put a focus on pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods, an urban approach to new developments, and a focus on job creation.

This plan includes a new downtown, the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, where the Spadina subway extension will bring the subway to Vaughan. It includes plans for complete communities focused around heritage villages and other local centres, linked by public transit; and it includes provisions for protecting existing residential and employment areas. A plan for the Vaughan hospital was also recently approved by the provincial government this summer.

With the continued growth of the community, comes the addition of new businesses. Mayor Bevilacqua says this is because Vaughan has location, a highly-educated and diverse population, accessibility to Canada’s largest airport, major highways, and great public transit, the new subway coming, an approved hospital plan, and they have a solid and well-managed city government.

“In essence, we have it all in Vaughan and we work hard to support our growing business community,” he says. “We

care about our business community and we have a solid track record of supporting them, including low taxes. We know that their hard work helps drive our local economy, as well as create quality employment and job opportunities.”

The mayor also recognizes the efforts of businesses like Top Choice Magazine, who are all about promoting and shining a spotlight on local businesses.

“Top Choice is a great avenue to promote all that is positive about the City of Vaughan. I think it’s important to help local businesses get the word out,” says Bevilacqua. “They rely on the local economy in order to grow – they rely on us, the consumer, to tell people about where we eat, where we shop, or where we get our car repaired.”

“In today’s Vaughan, knowledge is key and this publication offers a lot of wisdom in that regard,” he continues. “Top Choice understands that it plays an important role in our city - generating awareness and promoting the very best of what Vaughan has to offer.”

So what’s the secret to being mayor of a city like Vaughan? For Mayor Bevilacqua, public service is not a job, it’s a vocation.

“I am anchored to the sound values of dignity, integrity and respect for our citizens. There really is no secret - this is what I love to do, it is what I was born to do,” he says. “I think one of most exciting aspects of politics today is the evolution of cities – they are becoming the magnets for investment, creating jobs, providing the quality of life and standard of living for the people – it’s been a very fascinating experience.”

Fall 2011

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Survey Results

Top Choice Award 2011 Winners After three months of surveying with 6,000 people in 6 cities in the GTA, Top Choice Awards is honoured to announce the 2011 Top Choice Award Winners.

You can cast your vote at www.TopChoiceAwards.com

Media Newspaper (Daily)

Toronto Sun

Newspaper (Free Daily)

Metro

Radio Personality

John Derringer

Radio Program (Morning Show)

The Dean Blundell Show (102.1 The Edge)

Radio Program (News) Television Personality

680 News Steve Anthony

Television Program (Morning Show)

Breakfast Television

Television Program (News)

CP24 News

Greater Toronto Area (winners in 3 or more cities)

Casino

Fallsview

Coffee Shop

Tim Horton’s

Computer Retailer

Canada Computers

Concert Venue

Molson Amphitheatre

Courier/Delivery Services

Fed Ex

Culinary School

George Brown

Department Store

Sears

Design & Build Company

Robert Design Group Ltd.

Electronics Superstore

Best Buy

Fast Food Restaurants

Oriental King Asian Cuisine

Fitness Club

Extreme Fitness

Footwear Retailer

Aldo Shell Canada Limited

Air Line

Porter

Gas Station

Aquarium Store

Big Al’s Aquarium Service

Golf Course/Club

Flemingdon Park Golf Club

Athletic Clothing Retailer

Lululemon Athletica

Hairdressing School

Marca College

Athletic Footwear Retailer

Foot locker

Hat Retailer

Big It Up

Auto Repairs & Services

Supreme Collision Centre

Hotel

Fairmont Royal York

Bathroom Remodelling Service

Absolute Interior

Insurance Brokerage

Insurance Portfolio Inc

Cora’s

IT School

triOs College

Bridal Shop

Vera Wang

Jewellery Retailer

Spence Diamonds

Building Material Retailer

Lowe’s Home Improvement

Kids’ Catering Company

Yummy Catering

Warehouse

Kitchen Remodelling Services

Perola Kitchens

Burger Shop

Hero Burger

Language School

ILAC

Business School

Canadian Business College

Luggage Retailer

Heys

Butcher Shop

Talho e Salsicharia Rui Gomes

Mobile (Cellphone) Service Provider

Telus

Breakfast Restaurant

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Music School

Yamaha Music School

Storage Company

Peel Mini Storage

Optician

Hakim Optical

Tanning Salon

Arizona Tan

Pain Medication

Tylenol Muscle and Body

Thai Restuarant

Tamarine Vietnamese

Painting Supplies Retailer

Steeles Paint

Pet Shop

PJ’s Pets

Pet Supplies

Pet Valu

Real Estate Brokerage

Century 21 Parkland Ltd Brokerage

Roadside Assistance Provider

CAA

Sporting Equipment Retailer

Nike Canada

Taxi Company

Beck Taxi

Tea Shop

Teaopia

Telephone Service Provider

Rogers

TV Service Provider

Rogers

Weight Loss Clinic

Dr. Bernstein Diet & Health Clinics

Brampton Acupunturist

Wellness Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation

Auto Body Repair Services

Bodyworks Auto Collision

Baby Furniture Retailer

Weecycled

Banquet Hall Barber Shop

Pearson Convention Centre Rino’s Mens Hairstyling

Bridal Shop

Dress People Ltd

Certified General Accountant (CGA)

Saini Ved

Chinese Restaurant

Golden Lake Chinese Food

Civil Law Services

Fader Furlan Moss LLP

Community Newspaper

Brampton Guardian

Cosmetic Clinic

Laser Cosmetics Clinic

Criminal Law Services

Rutman & Rutman Professional Corporation

Dance School

The Studio School Of Dance

Electrical Contractor

Manny’s Electrical Ltd

Family Law Services

Kania Buttigieg Professional Corporation

Financial Advisor Hair Salon

Kris Sammy Cut Above Salon & Aesthetics

Insurance Agent

Phil Arnold

Italian Restaurant

Vesuvio Ristorante

Japanese (Sushi) Restaurant

Toshi Japanese Restaurant

Korean Restaurant

Koryo

Landscaping Services

Lawn Buster Land Services Inc

Mexican Restaurant

Taco Time Cantina

Mortgage Specialist

Canadian Mortgage Services

Music Store

Buster’s Musical Instruments

Nail Salon

Renaissance European Day Spa

Nanny Services

Majestic Caregiver Services

New Car Dealership

Brampton Chrysler Dodge Jeep

Painting Services

Deluxe Professional Painting Services

Physiotherapy Clinic

Activa Clinics Brampton

Pizzeria

Tony & Jim’s Place

Real Estate Sales Representative

Jennifer Jones

Spa

Nadia’s Day Spa

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

& Thai Restaurant Tire Services

Bramcity Transmission & Automotive

Travel Agency

Bramalea Travel Center

Yoga Studio

5 Elements Yoga & Pilates

Markham Acupunturist

Wellness Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation

Auto Body Repair Services

Bodyworks Auto Collision

Baby Furniture Retailer

Weecycled

Banquet Hall

Pearson Convention Centre

Barber Shop

Rino’s Mens Hairstyling

Bridal Shop

Dress People Ltd

Certified General Accountant (CGA)

Saini Ved

Chinese Restaurant

Golden Lake Chinese Food

Civil Law Services

Fader Furlan Moss LLP

Community Newspaper

Brampton Guardian

Cosmetic Clinic

Laser Cosmetics Clinic

Criminal Law Services

Rutman & Rutman

Dance School

The Studio School Of Dance

Professional Corporation

Electrical Contractor

Manny’s Electrical Ltd

Family Law Services

Kania Buttigieg Professional Corporation

Financial Advisor

Kris Sammy

Hair Salon

Cut Above Salon & Aesthetics

Insurance Agent

Phil Arnold

Italian Restaurant

Vesuvio Ristorante

Japanese (Sushi) Restaurant

Toshi Japanese Restaurant

Korean Restaurant

Koryo

Landscaping Services

Lawn Buster Land Services Inc

Mexican Restaurant

Taco Time Cantina

Mortgage Specialist

Canadian Mortgage Services

Music Store

Buster’s Musical Instruments

Nail Salon

Renaissance European Day Spa

Nanny Services

Majestic Caregiver Services

New Car Dealership

Brampton Chrysler Dodge Jeep

Painting Services

Deluxe Professional Painting Services

Physiotherapy Clinic

Activa Clinics Brampton

Pizzeria

Tony & Jim’s Place

Real Estate Sales Representative

Jennifer Jones

Spa

Nadia’s Day Spa

Storage Company

Peel Mini Storage

Tanning Salon

Arizona Tan

Thai Restuarant

Tamarine Vietnamese & Thai Restaurant

Tire Services

Bramcity Transmission & Automotive

Travel Agency

Bramalea Travel Center

Fall 2011

13

Top Choice Award 2011 Winners 5 Elements Yoga & Pilates

Yoga Studio

Mississauga Acupuncturist

Acupuncture Shiatsu Clinic

Air Conditioning &

Ultra Comfort

Heating Company Banquet Hall

Roma’s Hospitality Centre

Certified Chartered

MacGillivray Partners LLP

Accountant (CCA) Hearts Child Care Centres

Child Care Services Children and Infant Clothing Retailer

Star Kids

Chinese Restaurant

Goldenview Chinese Restaurant

Chiropractor

Lambert Chiropractic Health Centre

Civil Law Services

Reddington & White

Criminal Law Services

Law Offices of Gordon Bobesich

Dance School

Studio PAVAS Performing

Barber Shop

Corrado’s Hair Design & Barber Shop

Bridal Shop

Shivone Atelier

Certified Chartered

Mosoff & Liu Professional

Accountant (CCA)

Accountants

Certified General Accountant (CGA)

Garry Milley, CGA

Child Care Services

Early Years Daycare Center

Children’s Clothing Retailer

Gap Kids

Chinese Restaurant

Chpstix and Rice

Chiropractor

Leslie Chiropractic Clinic

Cosmetic Clinic

Dr Robertus Laser And Cosmetic Clinic

Criminal Law Services

Martin M Herman

Dance School

Dansecore

Electrical Contractor

Ashfield Electrical Services Inc

Family Law Services

Krol & Krol

Financial Advisor

Page and Associates Ltd

Hair Salon

Colors Hair & Skin Studio

Immigration Law Services

M Shahid & Associates

Insurance Agent

Richard Girardin

Divorce & Family Law

Italian Restaurant

Saporito

Raymond James Ltd -

Japanese (Sushi) Restaurant

Tomo Japanese Restaurant

Mississauga Branch

Landscaping Services

Greenlane Landscaping Inc

Gelateria

Amici Cafe Gelateria

Men’s Clothing Retailer

Elk’s Men’s Wear Stores

Hair Salon

Jacob Anthony Salon

Mortgage Specialist

Canada Wide Financial

Immigration Law Services

Adekusibe Fola Law PC

Music Store

Cosmo Music

Insurance Agent

Martin & Wright Insurance Brokers

New Car Dealership

Richmond Hill Honda

& Visual Arts School Duct Cleaning Services Electrical Contractor Family Law Services Financial Advisor

Superior Air Duct Cleaning Electrical Safety Authority Annette Wilson D M -

Italian Restaurant

Il Porcellino Italian Restaurant

Newspaper

Richmond Hill Liberal

Japanese (Sushi) Restaurant

Kanda Japanese Restaurant

Plumbing & Drain Services

Nor-Line Plumbing &

Landscaping Services

Turf Lawn Care & Maintenance Inc

Laser Hair Removal Services

Skinn Laser Clinic

Real Estate Sales Representative

Connex Realty Inc

Men’s Clothing Retailer

The Dapper Man

Sandwich Shop

RH Europa Deli Plus

Mexican Restaurant

Quesada Mexican Grill

Spa

Advance Medspa

New Car Dealership

401 Dixie Volkswagen

Storage Company

A A A York Moving & Storage

The Mississauga News

Tanning Salon

Tijuana Tan

Painting Services

Port Credit Painting & Decorating

Tire Services

Oak Ridges Tire And Auto Centre

Physiotherapy Clinic

TAC Physiotherapy Clinic Inc

Travel Agency

Agincourt Travel Service

Pizzeria

Luca Pizza

Used Car Dealership

Avante Mazda

Plumbing & Drain Services

Drain Rescue Plumbers

Portuguese Restaurant

Mario’s BBQ

Toronto (incl. Etobicoke, North York and Scarborough)

Real Estate Sales Representative

Tina A. McQuaid

Sandwich Shop Spa

Newspaper

Mechanical Limited

Acupuncturist

Asian Acupuncture & Shiatsu Clinic

Air Conditioning &

Cedarwood Heating &

Alliston Meat & Delicatessen

Heating Company

Air Conditioning Ltd

Joanne Lipp European Skin

Alternative Health Care

Ervanaria Victoria

Automotive Repairs and Services

Bento’s Auto Service Centre

Baby Furniture Retailer

Baby Land

Baby Furniture Retailer

Moms To Be And More

Banquet Hall

Thorncliffe Banquet Hall

Bar

Spacco

Barber Shop

Barber Shop

Bridal Shop

Belo Fashions Boutique

Café

Faema

Care Electrolysis & Laser Tanning Salon

Bodyrayz

Tire Services

Dixie-Bloor Service

Travel Agency

Able Travel American Express

Used Car Dealership

Erin Mills Mazda

Yoga Studio

Parivartan Mississauga Hot Yoga Studio

Richmond Hill Auto Body Repair Services

Carstar

Certified Chartered Accountant (CCA)

Jacques Liwanpo CA

Bar

The Crown And Phoenix

Chinese Restaurant

New Ho King

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Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Chiropractor

Healing Hands

Chocolatiers

Stubbe Chocolates

Civil Law Services

Lerners LLP

Cosmetic Clinic

St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic

Dance School

Annex Dance Academy Inc

Duct Cleaning Services

Prestige Duct Cleaning

Electrical Contractor

Gemini Electical Group

Exterior Moulding Company

Canamould Extrusions Inc.

Financial Advisor

Aurion Capital Management Inc

Fish Markets

Osler Fish Terminal

Fitness Studio

Real Fitness for Women

Food Distributor

Ferma Foods

Car Dealerships

Maple Toyota

Gelateria

Sicilian Sidewalk Café

Certified General Accountant (CGA)

Wallach Professional Corporation

Hair Replacement Clinic

Hair Doctor Inc

Child Care Services

The Kid’s Summit

Hair Salon

Life Hair Studio

Chiropractor

Vellore Chiropractic &

Immigration Law Services

Niren & Associates

Importing Company

Aurora Importing &

Civil Law Services

Mathew H Hilbing

Distributing Limited

Civil Law Services

Mathew H Hilbing

Injury Law Firm

Bergel & Magence LLP

Dance School

Rugcutterz Danz Artz

Insurance Agent

Safeway Insurance & Financial

Duct Cleaning Services

Professional Choice

Italian Restaurant

Vecchio Frak

Yoga Studio

Breathe Yoga Studio

Vaughan Acupuncturist

Maple Health Care & Rehab

Air Conditioning &

York County Heating &

Heating Company

Air Conditioning

Auto Body Repair Services

Carstar IAC Collision

Banquet Hall

Terrace Banquet Centre

Bar

Wegz

Barber Shop

Tom’s Barber Shop

Bridal Shop

Woodbridge Bridal Shoe Shop & Accessories

Wellness Centre

Cleaning Services Inc

Japanese (Sushi) Restaurant

Ki

Electrical Contractor

Gemini Group

Kitchen Cabinet Maker

Belmonte Kitchens

Financial Advisor

David Fluss, Fluss Partners LLP

Korean Restaurant

Nak Won

Gelateria

La Paloma Gelateria & Café

Landscaping Services

Lima’s Gardens & Construction, Inc.

Immigration Law Services

Costi Immigration Services

Life Insurance Services

Ferreira Insurance &

Injury Law Firm

Edson Legal

Investment Concepts

Insurance Agent

Iantorno Serafino-State Farm Insurance Agent

Message Therapist

Emkiro Health Services

Mexican Restaurant

Burrito Boyz

Italian Restaurant

Vinsanto Ristorante

Mortgage Specialist

Mark Neves

Japanese (Sushi) Restaurant

Spoon and Fork

Music Centre

Snider School Of Music

Landscaping Services

Greenspruce Lawn Care

Nail Salon

Petals

Nanny Services

Nannies on Call

Laser Hair Removal Services

Neutra Skin Care & Laser Clinic

Pizza e Pazzi

Men’s Clothing Retailer

Per Lui

New Car Dealership

Parkway Honda

Mexican Restaurant

Mucho Burrito

Night Club

Ultra Supper Club

Mortgage Specialist

Assured Mortgage Services

Court-Hampton Painting Inc.

Mortgage Specialist

Eddie Quindamo

Physiotherapy Clinic

Bloor West/High Park Physiotherapy

Music Centre

Michael Chau’s Piano Emporium

Pizzeria

Pizzeria Libretto

Music Store

Caringi Accordion House Ltd

Portuguese Bakery

Caldense Bakery & Pastry

Nail Salon

Nice One Nails

Churrasqueira Martins

New Business

Ciao Roma

Printing Services

Mach 2 Press

New Car Dealership

Martin Grove Volkswagen

Real Estate Sales Representative

DTZ Barnicke

Newspaper

Snap

Nella Cucina Cooking School

Night Club

Ivy Social Club

Roofing Company

Skyway Roofing LTD

Physiotherapy Clinic

Maple Glen Physiotherapy

Sandwiches

California Sandwiches

New Business

Painting Services

Portuguese Restaurant

Recreational Cooking Classes

Spa

Hammam Spa

Storage Company

Consolidated Moving & Storage Ltd

Tanning Salon Thai Restuarant

Tans Unlimited O Mi Japanese & Thai Restaurant

Travel Agency

Happy Travellers

Used Car Dealership

International Automotive Group

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

& Snow Removal Ltd

& Sports Injuries Clinic Pizzeria

Antonino’s Pizzeria & Panini

Plumbing & Drain Services

A Alert Drain Ltd

Real Estate Sales Representative

Dreamworld Realty Inc

Sandwich Shop

Vincentina Meats

Storage Company

Nortown Moving & Self Storage

Tanning Salon

Monaco Sun Tanning

Travel Agency

Cianfarani Travel Inc

Fall 2011

15

Event

Summer 2011 Magazine Launch Rolling out the red carpet for an evening of Hollywood glam Written by Sandy Caetano

Photos by Maggie Habieda Nowakowski

Ivy Social Club was the hotspot that hosted Top Choice Magazine’s launch and networking party for the release of their Summer 2011 Issue, which featured UFC President Dana White on its cover.

With another issue published and in the hands of its readers, it was time to unwind and schmooze with advertisers, award winners and everyone who had a hand in this latest issue of the magazine.

Ivy Social Club, Vaughan’s newest and sophisticated night club, rolled out the red carpet for Top Choice Magazine launch party guests. Everyone who came to Ivy was given the star-studded treatment by posing in front of the Top Choice Magazine backdrop on their way into the club, while photographers feverishly snapped their photos.

“With the right size and mind set Ivy was the Top Choice to host the 2011 Summer launch of Top Choice Magazine.

It was Friday night and Top Choice Award winners and advertisers got together to network on the private second floor of the most popular social club in Vaughn,” says David Silvestre, CEO of Top Choice Media Group.

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Fall 2011

Indulge Hair Studio had a booth set up where gorgeous models were being indulged as photographers kept the moment alive by capturing every moment.

Rui Gomes was also on hand and brought his best roasted piglet to the party, serving it all night long. Ciao Roma and The Big Cannoli provided samples of some of their authentic pizza and delicious treats as well. While Ivy did what it does best - they

It was a serious recipe for success…we love to connect people! provided a stunning atmosphere where people could have an enjoyable time and get lost in the sounds of the club’s excellent music.

“The open bar and appetizers were waiting to receive guests and break the ice for a networking event that until today is still bringing in results,” he says. “It was a serious recipe for success. Top Choice staff were everywhere making sure the

interaction happened, helping to create new relationships by introducing business owners to one another — we love to connect people!”

It was an evening of Hollywood glam, as everyone gathered to celebrate the latest issue of Top Choice Magazine, a magazine that has grown into a reputable source of information.

Top Choice Magazine began as a side project for Top Choice Media Group, something that was solely created to showcase Top Choice Award winners. But today, it’s been transformed into something more.

“There was never an intention to create an identity with this magazine, but as per today and by public demand, Top Choice Magazine has become one of our most important tools of representation and showcasing our work,” continues Silvestre. “According to our business forecast, it seems that Top Choice Magazine will soon grow Internationally and potentially into a franchise. So we are looking forward to make the right decisions and keep the magazine stable and slowly growing to be ready for the big ‘jump’.”

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

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Event

Clients, family and friends were on hand to celebrate

The grand opening was commemorated with an official red ribbon cutting

Indulge Intrigues Local Vaughan Business Scene Indulge Hair Studio’s Grand Opening is only the beginning to their new found success

By Sandy Caetano Indulge Hair Studio Inc., Vaughan’s newest hair boutique, celebrated the beginning of their success by opening its doors to its community for an afternoon of wine and cheese on Sunday, August 21st, 2011.

“The turn out for the grand opening went very well. I felt very happy and excited that I was finally able to let everyone know I opened my own salon, it felt very good,” says Sara Tamburello-Capone, Lead Stylist and Owner of Indulge Hair Studios Inc. “It means so much to me that I can show people who and what I am made of, and of course the work that I do extremely well and take pride in.”

The grand opening of Indulge wascommemorated with an off icial red ribbon cutting and presevntation by City of Vaughan Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca, who was in attendance on behalf of Maurizio Bevilacqua, the Mayor of Vaughan.

“It was very important to me to have my business recognized by the mayor’s office because I feel that I have a lot to offer this city through my business,” she says. “The City of Vaughan has grown so much since I moved here from Toronto in the early 90s and it’s great to be a part of this amazing

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Fall 2011

city that keeps growing and bringing a bright future to it’s residents.”

It doesn’t matter if you’re a new business, a small business or a franchise - making your presence known in your community can impact the success of your business. You can’t expect to just open your doors and see people flooding in. It’s about promoting your business in the right way, to the right people.

“From inviting local politicians, family and friends, the Grand Opening is the first impression to an everlasting perception of any business - creating local curiosity and remaining forever in people’s minds, so best to do it right,” says David Silvestre, CEO of Top Choice Media Group.

And with today’s social media tools, even those who weren’t able to make it out to the event are able to relive it by seeing the photos online and reading comments from those who actually attended.

“Overall Indulge has what is takes, strong will and family values that reflect in the face of the business, and as expected, they have impacted the local business scene and intrigued many who are willing to try the newest way of indulging themselves in Vaughan,” adds Silvestre.

Owners Joe and Sara Capone (left), congratulated by Vaughan City Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca Since the Grand Opening of Indulge, business has been steadily growing, bringing in new faces who have also helped spread the word about this new Vaughan salon. At Indulge, they strongly believe that your hair is an extension of your personality and are raising the bar when it comes to quality hair care.

“My goal now for Indulge is to be successful, and that means to keep my clients coming back for fabulous services provided by experienced and knowledgeable staff. I see my business expanding in the future, and perhaps one day I’ll even launch my own product line,” says Tamburello-Capone.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

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Entertainment

George Clooney

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

Nicolas Cage

TIFF 2011 The 36th Annual Toronto International Film Festival means big business for the city.

By Sandy Caetano After an exciting 11-days of star sightings, reviewing films and filing to deadlines - the hustle and bustle of the 36th Toronto International Film Festival has come to an end.

Covering TIFF this year has been a whirlwind for many of us who took part in the festival, whether we attended for the love of film or to cover the festival as members of the media. There were films to watch every day, gala presentations to attend, press conferences to cover, interviews with the stars and the numerous TIFF parties that went on until the wee hours of the night.

Unforgettable moments will definitely include the rush of getting a spot on the red carpet, waiting with camera in hand all to grab that perfect shot of the many celebrities who came through Toronto for the film festival.

Toronto was booming with music, festivities and celebrations - all for the love of cinema.

This year, TIFF brought 268 features and 68 shorts to the big screen, an eclectic mix of well-versed, well-created and wellexecuted cinema.

Cameron Bailey, Co-Director of the Festival says TIFF is all about transforming the way people view the world of cinema.

“So we had the big ones that people were expecting to be good like Moneyball,

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Fall 2011

The Descendants, Drive, Ides of March and The Artist, but we also had all kinds that were just discovered by our audience,” says Bailey. “What I like, is that we have a big enough range that there’s always going to be something for every movie goer.”

Some of this year’s highlights include one of my personal favourites Moneyball, a baseball film starring Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill, about the challenges of a team trying to make it with not a lot of money to help

we have enough range that there’s something for everyone them obtain the key players they need to be successful. George Clooney’s the Ides of March, which stars Canadian actor Ryan Gosling, was another fan fav this year and one many critics also gave a thumbs up.

This film toys with the possibilities of what may really be happening behind the closed doors in politics.

Joel Schumacher’s Trespass is a gripping film about a home invasion that unravels revealing a complicated thriller, starring Nicolas Cage and Nicole Kidman.

Madonna’s W.E. was another film this year

Ralph Fiennes and Gerrard Butler that audiences will either love or hate.

Fascinated with the story of King Edward VIII and his romance with the Duchess of Windsor, Wallis Simpson, the Material Girl wanted to tell this story in her own version by giving it a modern-day feel.

Other big name films to catch once they are released on the big screen nationwide are Ralph Fiennes’ thrilling Coriolanus, 50/50 starring Seth Rogen, and Drive starring Gosling (The Ides of March), already playing in theaters.

Luc Besson’s The Lady is also a highly recommended film. It’s an inspiring story about a real woman, Aung San Suu Kyi (or Daw Suu), who’s love and passion for her country has helped determine that anyone, man or woman, with faith, strength and willpower can eventually change the way the world works.

Also worthy of taking a look at include: Hysteria with actress Maggie Gyllenhaal, Steve McQueen’s Shame, Axel Petersen’s for Avalon (Sweden) who received the International Critics Prize, Discovery Programme, and of course Nadine Labaki’s Where Do We Go Now? which picked up the Cadillac People’s Choice Award.

And that’s a wrap - that is, until next year’s festival gets underway.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

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Sales

Cold Call Survival Guide Cold calling can be frustrating and downright painful. But with a few tips, and the right attitude, you can turn the tide and survive to call again another day.

By Francesca Filippelli

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Fall 2011

I can very much assume that not many of us out there enjoy or, better yet, look forward to, cold calling.

Unfortunately, cold calling has now become a large part of a business’ success and recognition. In fact, if you are looking to run a business it is highly recommended that you educate yourself with this particular skill if you want to succeed.

I would agree that just picking up the phone and dialing the number of a complete stranger can be somewhat intimidating. This attempt at sales and marketing is, and will always be, very difficult to not only accomplish, but to accomplish it correctly. Although you’re trapped in a nervous and uncomfortable energy zone throughout the duration of

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

a huge percentage of the call is completely psychological; work around your potential client with a sharp and focused mindset

the call, remember that the single act of picking up the phone takes initial courage; picking up the phone and turning that experience into an actual sale takes confidence and, most of all, faith in yourself.

Take a deep breath and always remember to prepare yourself. Begin by reciting the questions you want answered by your potential client. Continue to repeat these questions until you have come to an understanding of what it is you are looking for and until you feel comfortable enough to recant your script as a naturally flowing conversation.

In most cases, your first contact during the phone call will be the secretary or receptionist. I have had my share of “unhappy” and “misunderstood” people

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

answer my phone call. But, believe it or not, you can make the best out of those particular individuals. Expect a rejection from them but don’t accept it. Spread your good energy and make a friend out of a stranger. Make it easier on yourself and virtually surround him/her with nothing but good intentions. Once you are on his/her good side you will be connected to the right person you want to speak with.

Whether or not that potential client is receiving your phone call with a positive or negative perspective, you are still facing a chance of experiencing constant rejection with every approach you may have for them and their company. From personal experience, if you can’t handle rejection, well you should not get into this aspect of business sales.

On a good note, one thing you can always be prepared for from a prospect is “what can this purchase do for me?”. Once that happens your half way in the door... they are interested! Now it is up to you to give them the reason to finalize the purchase. Here are some ways that could help you achieve your much-wanted results.

Everyone who is part of a sales-dependent system must understand that results will come from the implementation of three specific fundamentals that support the whole idea of cold calling.

Firstly, practice your processing skills.

While every company operates differently, a successful sales company researches their client before initiating contact. This particular skill involves various steps as outlined by your company. This general skill includes the ability that you have within yourself to isolate the most ideal candidate(s), from dozens or hundreds of possibilities, that will qualify under your company’s validation process. During your search, your aim is to highlight those that are in need of, and deserve, your product and/or service.

Secondly, a huge percentage of the call is completely psychological; work around your potential client with a sharp

and focused mindset. In fact, always remember that you are not only selling your product and/or service through the phone but you must also sell yourself. The moment the ringing stops and a voice reaches you from the other end you are now an extension of that person’s office. Do not hide behind the phone; instead, make your self “visible” in a positive way. Train your mind to believe that the person you are now speaking with can physically see you. As such, while facing your potential client, smile, be courteous, and extremely organized.

Once your potential client is at ease and, more importantly, is willing to remain on the phone with you, initiate your follow-up business skill that reinforces your “mental prowess”. Be certain that no one can sell your product and/or service the way you can. Be unique. This crucial ability involves you, the telemarketer, understanding and believing in your own commodity and what it means to you to receive recognition from your potential client on the phone. Stand out from your competition. Be sure to be as specific as possible; be knowledgeable

Stand out from your competition.

Be sure to be as specific as possible; be knowledgeable about what you and your company can offer them. about what you and your company can offer them.

Follow these simple but effective tips to gain a clear and concise vantage point in an otherwise cluttered and confusing world of cold calling. Accomplish the calls positively; the last thing you want to do is create a negative impact on your company. These guidelines will help you avoid costly mistakes that may taint your corporate image in the long run. Keeping this article as a guide for your sales calls may help you avoid saying something you don’t want to say that may cost you the sale. No matter how good of a telemarketer you are always remember to keep smiling; positive attitude is mission critical to your company’s success.

Fall 2011

23

Marketing Place

Pamper Yourself, Indulge Your Hair Indulge Hair Studio, your hair is their masterpiece Written by Sandy Caetano Photos by Maggie Habieda Nowakowski Styling hair wasn’t what Sara Tamburello-Capone had in mind for her career. She wanted to get into law enforcement.

Two totally different careers - a police officer versus a hairstylist - the latter of the two is the path she grew into loving.

Tamburello-Capone started working at a hair salon when she was 16. It was only supposed to be a part-time job to help her pay her way through school.

When she graduated from highschool, she took a year off and continued working at the salon. It was then that she realized hairstyling was her real passion. It gave her an outlet to let her creativity flow.

“I really wanted to be a cop, not a hairdresser,” says Tamburello-Capone. “After I was done school, things just started getting busy for me, and I began getting a lot of clients, especially bridal parties.”

“So I thought this could be a good career, I was really starting to like what I was doing,” she continues. “It allowed me to be creative with up-do’s and especially colouring, mixing shades - it’s artwork.”

Hairstyling became more than just washing, cutting and blowdrying - she was given a blank canvas and the right tools, and by the time she was complete, each new client became a new conquered masterpiece.

Tamburello-Capone studied at Marca College - Toronto Hair Design and Esthetics School and has been a licensed hair stylist ever since. She’s worked in several salons and built her clientele, but it wasn’t enough - she had to have her own place.

Now she’s celebrating the grand opening of Indulge Hair Studio Inc., a boutique located in Vaughan that will give your precious locks the proper care they deserve!

At Indulge, they strongly believe that your hair is an extension of your personality.

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Fall 2011

Sara Tamburello-Capone, Lead Stylist and Owner of Indulge Hair Studios Inc.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Business Greatness

So what does it take to survive in the hair industry?

“Patience, drive, dedication and passion - it’s a lot of work and it’s scary, but I’m ready to take it all on,” she says. “If you’re going to be successful, you also have to treat your staff with respect…you want to know when you’re not there, that you have a team who will back you up, a team that shares the same passions you do.”

Tamburello-Capone prides herself on her relationship building with each of her unique clients. Customer service is critical in any business, but especially in hair salons. It’s about making your clients feel at home the minute they walk in the door.

But that’s not all that’s offered at Indulge.

Indulge works exclusively with L’Oreal Professional, an excellent source with a reliable line of products you can trust both at the salon and at home. This skillful hair team provides their clients with the tools and knowledge they need to properly maintain healthy, beautiful hair.

Though they keep up-to-date with the latest cutting-edge hair styles, they use them as a base to create their own unique fashion trends.

“I want people to come in here and walk out happy, and of course I want them to spread the word - Indulge is about spoiling yourself, it’s about pampering, it’s about class and elegance.”

Indulge Hair Studios Inc.

9461 Jane St., Unit 104 Vaughan, On

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

905.553.6555 www.indulgehairstudios.com sara@indulgehairstudios.com

Fall 2011

25

TIPS

The New Era of Minimally Invasive Facial Enhancement Has Begun Surgical vs non-surgical, ablative vs non-ablative… confused yet? Now how about invasive vs minimally-invasive?

Relax, it’s all good news for the cosmetic consumer.

By Dr. Nino Kuzmar, Founding Medical Director of the St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic

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Fall 2011

The dynamic field of Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine coupled with a seemingly endless demand for cosmetic services is fuelling an arms race type of technological escalation resulting in the development and commercialization of some incredible new products in the area of facial enhancement.

ePrime Non-Surgical Facelift The phrase “non-surgical facelift” has been bandied around so much by so many ineffective technologies over the years that the term itself has almost lost its relevance.

Almost…

Enter the revolutionary new “minimally invasive” ePrime system from the recently merged powerhouse of Syneron-Candela.

This device is absolutely ground-breaking. It is in essence a highly sophisticated system for the consistent and unimpeded delivery of RF energy to the deep dermal tissue where it is most needed in order to dramatically improve skin laxity.

Wow…and how do you say it can do that?

Well, the skin is injected with a matrix of tiny needles directly into the deep dermis bypassing the more superficial epidermis and upper dermal layers. These needles have real time temperature and impedance monitors that ensure the consistent delivery of the collagen and elastin stimulating energy with each and every application.

The results achieved with this device are so impressive that they are not compared with other laser or energy based

technologies but rather with the gold standard itself, surgical facelift.

Yes, you read right! Results are comparable to a surgical facelift.

Dr. Alexiades, cosmetic dermatologist and Yale associate professor, recently published a peer reviewed clinical comparison of ePrime results and surgical lower facelift procedure examining the prejowl, jawline and upper neck regions. It was determined that on average, ePrime delivered 37% of the improvement achieved with a surgical facelift procedure. That result does not in and of itself replace surgery as the best treatment option for this indication, but it does highlight how far along the spectrum of non-surgical options this technology has come.

This treatment is very much for the man or woman who is starting to see early signs of sagging tissue in the pre-jowl and jawline region and are not considering surgery as an option that’s right for them.

After researching the clinical studies, meeting the development team, and personally being trained on this technology by Dr. James Newman , Facial Plastic Surgeon and Stanford Associate Professor, I was so impressed that I had to move forward and offer this remarkable treatment to my own patients immediately.

For my practice, the new era of minimally invasive facial enhancement has begun…

Dr. Nino Kuzmar is a University of Toronto Medical graduate and founding medical director of the St. Clair Cosmetic & Laser Clinic. He is a cosmetic physician with a special interest in non-surgical facial rejuvenation.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Customized Skin Treatments

By Dr. Nino Kuzmar, Cosmetic Physician and Noah Kiani, Skin Therapist

Cosmetic Injectables ePrime™ Non-Surgical Face-Lift FIRST IN CANADA CO2RE™ Laser Skin Resurfacing Affirm™ Multiplex Laser Skin Rejuvenation For more information or to book your complimentary cosmetic consultation call or visit www.StClairCosmetic.com

Top Cosmetic Clinic of 2011 in Toronto

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

TIPS

Maintaining a Pain-free Life

Learn about TAC Physiotherapy’s unique approach to pain relief and how they have helped countless individuals maintain their quality of life Serving it’s patients for over 18 years, TAC Physiotherapy Inc. is a trusted, proven leader in the field of rehabilitation in GTA. Since 1993 TAC Physiotherapy has been providing effective and personalized physiotherapy, massage, and acupuncture treatment to its patients. The staff at TAC consists of a team of dedicated, fully licensed health care professionals who strive to provide superior patient care, in the clinic’s positive and warm environment. An individualized treatment approach is vital to our patients’ success in reaching their recovery and fitness goals.

TAC’s small scale, family friendly environment allows for a more intimate and comforting setting in order to make treatments as pleasant as possible. Through detailed and thorough assessments, TAC Physiotherapy provides customised and tailored treatments, exercises and therapeutic modalities that best fit their lifestyle and rehabilitation needs.

TAC Physiotherapy caters to variety of patients and their specific injuries. At TAC patients vary from infants to geriatric persons and athletes to individuals struggling with obesity. Patients suffer from a wide

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variety of injuries including but not limited to sport injuries, traumatic injuries such as motor vehicle accidents and work related injuries, repetitive strain/sprain injuries, pre and post-operative impairments, and pre and post -natal recovery.

Recently TAC Physiotherapy has introduced exercise and education sessions that cater to groups of people with precise

Education and prevention are keys to maintaining the treatment results needs and injury specific requirements.

Group exercise and fitness classes include pre and post-natal, osteoporosis and fall prevention. Exercises are organized for groups of up to five people, allowing for a personal approach along with fun social interaction between the patients and the therapist. With today’s emerging elderly population, TAC recognizes the need for

attentive care to improve and maintain the general wellness of the elderly. At TAC the aim is to optimize a patients’ health, not only after a traumatic event or degenerative changes, but to prevent, slow down and best prepare patients for such unfortunate events. A key part of treatment includes and effort to educate patients’ about their conditions, preventive measures and independent maintenance of their overall health. Advocating physical fitness and wellbeing is encouraged for self maintenance outside the clinical setting.

With the latest in treatment equipment, TAC utilizes a computerised gait scan analysis for more detailed assessment of walking patterns and general posture. This analysis also allows for accurate and effective fabrication and dispensing of orthotics for many foot and lower body pain and injuries. Furthermore, we are able to provide our patients with highly customised exercises that are delivered conveniently by email, allowing us to constantly interact with the patients even after discharge.

Well-being and pain free patients are our primary goal and the measurement of our success.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Prevent, treat, manage.

beat

pain

Top Physiotherapy Clinic of 2011 in Mississauga

905-272-8372 Rockwood Mall 4141 Dixie Road, Unit 26 Mississauga, Ontario L4W 1V5

www.tacphysio.com

Physiotherapy helps restore, maintain and improve movement and physical function of the human body. As primary health care professionals, physiotherapists combine in-depth knowledge of how the body works with specialized hands-on clinical skills to assess, diagnose and treat symptoms of illness, injury or disability. With your independence in mind, a physiotherapist’s goal is to restore, maintain and maximize your strength, function, movement and overall well-being.

TAC Physiotherapy maintain your quality of life

Tips Article source: EZine Articles | http://ezinearticles.com/?Choose-Alternative-Health&id=1482184

Alternative Health, Alternative Results Alternative health practices are gaining popularity simply because they work. Conventional health care treats diseases that have already struck, alternative health care seeks to create and maintain the best health while stopping disease and physical ailments before they begin. Old fashioned methods of keeping healthy are worth another look. That is why alternative health regimens are becoming popular again. The most coveted benefit of alternative health methods is the holistic approach taken by practitioners. The idea that the mind body and spirit work together to maintain wellness.

Health As large as the health care industry is, alternative health methods are the fastest growing piece of the health care pie.

This may be because alternative health offers additional benefits like increased self-awareness, inner peace, a connected feeling with ones body, leading to increased mental and physical health. If you feel smothered by the lack of choice of your conventional health care practice, look at comparable alternative health measures that can elevate your general wellbeing and feed the mind and soul.

Body Do you know what your body needs?

People seek out alternative health care practitioners because they tend to treat the whole body including the mind and spirit.

Chiropractic care is a type of alternative health care or alternative medicine that specifically focuses on the body’s skeletal structure. This structure is not just bones but nerves and muscles and their associated functionality.

The primary concept of Chiropractic is that the misalignment of the spine (subluxations) is the cause of many disorders or illnesses in our body. Chiropractic treatment primarily involves the use of hands

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to manipulate and adjust the structure of our body and it does not make use of any surgery or operation in treating spinal and muscular related ailments. More importantly, patients who take the natural approach believe that they are more in control of their health and body.

Holistic When you consider that scientific evidence has indicated that more than 90% of cancers are environmentally induced, and that about 80% of health problems are either created or negatively affected by stress, it starts to make sense to look at health in a holistic way. Alternative health practitioners tend to emphasize a holistic approach to patient care.

Among the subject matter in these holistic medicine programs are in-depth studies in anatomy and physiology, pathology and disease, detoxification methods, energy healing, herbal medicine (both Eastern and Western modalities), homeopathy, orthomolecular nutrition/holistic nutrition, flower essences and remedies, holistic counselling, iridology, and other

natural medicine. There are many natural medicine schools that give basic workshops and seminars in holistic practices for the public at large. Sometimes, you can find a beginner’s look into self-massage, homemade herbal remedies, natural vitamins and supplements, reflexology and more.

Alternative health practice looks at how the Mind-Body-Spirit relates to its external surroundings. Alternative health may include taking vitamin supplements, doing yoga and eating organic vegetables, but more importantly it is about creating health while obstructing disease before it begins.

The increased popularity of alternative health is a bonus to chiropractic medicine as an inclusive part of regular health maintenance. The differences from technology to alternative medicine is a strength in our world. We are responsible for our health and it is good to remember that there is always a choice in medical care. Alternative health continues to grow as we seek holistic solutions to our health complaints so we may hold on to a better quality of life for more years than previously thought possible.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

cleanse yourself, naturally We are all born from nature, yet few have discovered the true healing power that nature has to offer. Manuel Antonio Medeiros has dedicated his life to finding natural treatments for many of today’s most common ailments.

Before you go to the drug store, go to Victoria.

go back to nature.

Top Alternative Health Service of 2011 in Toronto

Natural Medicine Consulting = Vitamins and Natural Supplements = Homeopathic/Naturopathic Products = Massage Therapy = Physiotherapy = Acupuncture = Nutritional Consulting = Psychotherapy = Natural Foods and Beverages

Toronto 416.603.7978 920 Dundas St. W

Hamilton 905.523.7305 10 Barton St. E Montreal 514.287.8967 4175 Rue St. Dominique www.ErvanariaVictoria.com

ERVANARIA

VICTORIA

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

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.

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

4-time recipient Top Laser Vision Correction in the GTA

TIPS

What is the Right Business Vehicle for Me?* When starting your own business you must carefully consider your business vehicle

By David Costa, Lawyer and Founder of Costa Law Firm pc Congratulations on deciding to start your own business! You will need to choose your method of carrying on a business. Here we address three potential business vehicles to consider depending on your needs: (i) Sole Proprietorship, (ii) Partnership, and (iii) Incorporation.

SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP The Sole Proprietorship is perhaps the easiest method of carrying on a business.

It comes into existence whenever an individual sets up a commercial operation. The sole proprietor owns the assets of the business and is the ultimate decision maker.

There is no formal registration requirement for a sole proprietorship. However, you may have to register a business name.

Although relatively easy to set up, this method does not have the benefit of separate legal status and limited liability, as may be found in a corporation.

PARTNERSHIP When two or more persons carry on business together with a view to profit, the

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relationship is called a Partnership, and its co-owners are called Partners. Similar to a Sole Proprietorship, a partnership is relatively easy to create and does not have separate legal status apart from its partners. In addition, partners are agents of each other and can enter into agreements on behalf of the partnership, thus binding all co-owners. Although not required, it is recommended that partners enter into a partnership agreement in order to clearly set out the parameters of their relationship; otherwise, the partnership relationship is governed by the default rules of the Partnership Act. When drafting a partnership agreement, it is crucial to address issues in the partnership relationship such as: admission of new partners, dissolution, how decisions will be made, retirement of a partner, etc.

CORPORATION Unlike Sole Proprietorship and Partnership, a Corporation is a legal entity separate in law from its owners. It can therefore own property, carry on business, possess rights, and incur liabilities.

One of the main advantages to carrying on a business through this legal form is the limited liability and perpetual existence of the corporate form. To create a corporation, one or more individuals who are 18 years of age or older, not mentally incapable, and not bankrupt sign and file Articles of Incorporation (which is like a birth certificate for a corporation). Articles of Incorporation typically include information such as: company name, address of a registered office, the number of directors; the number and characteristics of shares authorized to be issued, and any restrictions that are imposed on the transfer of shares.

There are three major sets of players in a corporation: the directors, the officers, and the shareholders. Directors oversee the corporation and make major decisions.

Officers carry out the day to day operations and implement the policy decisions put in place by the directors. While shareholders “own” the corporation through their ownership of its shares, they do not own the property belonging to the corporation, or assume its rights and liabilities due to the corporation’s separate legal existence.

Shareholders are entitled to vote, elect directors, receive the remaining property of the corporation upon dissolution, and typically share in the profits through dividends declared by the directors. *Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is NOT legal advice but fundamental information to be further inquired upon professionally. You should always consult with a qualified lawyer to obtain proper advice.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Civil Litigation Criminal Law Family Law Immigration Law

We’re There For You.

Business Law Real Estate Law Wills & Estates

“I needed a lawyer there for me. I felt like I had nowhere to turn. I couldn’t go back and I couldn’t move forward. Then I was told about Costa Law Firm pc. Their lawyers guided me through the legal process and led me to a new and secure life. I don’t know where I’d be without them.”

Costa Law Firm pc. There for you.

Costa Law Firm pc was forged on the principle of promoting integrity and dedication to client service. Our satisfaction comes from your success. We invite you to talk with us.

6-TIME RECIPIENT F O R T O P L AW F I R M IN TORONTO

Professional Corporation

24 Hr. Emergency Pager: (416) 535-6329 1015 Bloor St W, Toronto, Ont. www.costalawfirm.ca

TIPS

Putting Your Net Worth on the Fast Track Borrowing to invest is a simple, yet effective wealth creation strategy that involves using other people’s money to make a significant investment rather than using your own equity or money, similar to leveraging for things like mortgages, credit cards, etc.

By Victor Ferreira, Owner of Ferriera Insurance & Investment Concepts Inc. What the Industry considers bad and good debt…

It’s bad debt if you borrow money with usually high interest credit cards, to purchase items that quickly depreciate in value.

It’s good debt if you borrow to invest - you can benefit from a larger lump sum today and your interest cost is tax deductible! It usually applies to anything that is tax deductible and provides value as the asset appreciates.

Benefits of borrowing (Leveraging)…

Most people are unable to fund home purchases or take out an RRSP loan with a significant single lump sum. When managed properly, leveraging has the potential to accelerate the growth of your savings, achieve long term financial goals more quickly, and build a larger and more diversified retirement portfolio, etc.

If done incorrectly, it can have negative effects and present undue risks. It’s important to leverage responsibly with an amount that results in payments you can afford comfortably; this strategy may very well help you reach your financial goals.

Victor Ferreira President of Ferreira Insurance & Investment Concepts Inc., senior financial advisor and Life and Qualifying member of the prestigious “Million Dollar Round Table” (Ranked top 1% of advisors worldwide) has been helping people make clear financial choices for almost two decades. Wellrecognized and respected by his community and the Financial Services Industry – the top choice of many across Southern Ontario!

To learn more visit www.LifeHealthAndWealth.ca or call 416-709-2716

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www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Insuring & investing in your tomorrow, today!

Insure

Invest

Trust

Life Insurance Mortgage Insurance Disability Insurance Critical Illness Long Term Care Personal Health Insurance Travel Insurance Employee Benefits

RRSPs / RIFs / LIFs / TFSAs / RESPs (Reg. Educat. Plans) Leverage (Loans) Savings Plans Segregated Funds Financial Planning Estate Planning Retirement Planning

Multiple Top Choice Award recipient, including Top Insurance Broker of 2011

Victor Ferreira, EPC, RFC Insurance Broker Investment Broker Financial Advisor

People don’t plan to fail... they fail to plan!

Ferreira Insurance & Investment Concepts Inc.

Serving Southern Ontario since 1994

www.LifeHealthAndWealth.ca (416) 709-2716

TIPS

The Duties of a Mortgage Broker Looking for an unbiased view in regards to your mortgage choice?

Then let a Mortgage Broker do the work of securing a mortgage for you.

By Eddie Quindamo, Mortgage Broker, License #10584 How to select the right Mortgage Broker for you? There is a lot to consider when financing your home and selecting the right Mortgage Broker is essential in maximizing the right mortgage for you.

Free Service As a Mortgage Professional I am paid a finder’s fee by the lender, which is similar to commission in traditional sales.

Access to prime interest rates As a Mortgage Professional I have access to discounted interest rates that the banks cannot compete with as well as insight to wide range mortgage products.

Shopping the Market As a Mortgage Broker I am working for you, not the bank. For that reason, I can shop the market which includes credit unions and trust companies to saving you time and money.

interest rates and mortgage products (not all lenders have the same mortgage products).

Fast and Easy Application Process Experience is essential here. As a committed Mortgage Broker I am able to assess, process and deliver your application to lenders within 24 hours.

Step-by-step Guidance As your Mortgage Broker I am able to walk you through each stage of the mortgage process, regardless if you are a first time home buyer or a seasoned real estate

connoisseur, by understanding every step you will feel more confident in the decisions you are making that can otherwise seem overwhelming.

A Lasting Relationship Because I truly appreciate your business and your referrals, I work hard to ensure that you are satisfied with my service and my commitment always goes the extra mile for you. Annual Mortgage Check-Ups, Variable Rate Updates and the planning of your Mortgage Burning Party are all thoughtful ways that separate me from other Mortgage Brokers.

Eddie Quindamo Mortgage Broker, License #10584 For over 20 years, Eddie Quindamo has helped thousands of clients obtain their dream home and other financing goals.

Eddie’s proven record of success can best be captured by his solid reputation and the strong relationships he has developed within his community as well as with his 50+ lenders.

Comparison As a Mortgage Professional I am able to provide you side-by-side comparison of both

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To speak with Eddie about the possibilities of your Mortgage, call (905) 652-3000 ext. 200 or email him at eddie@quindamo.com

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

WITH THE RIGHT MORTGAGE YOUR HOUSE WILL FEEL LIKE HOME A note from Eddie Quindamo

As your biggest investment, your home can have a tremendous impact on your future.

That's why choosing the right mortgage is so important. As an independent Mortgage Broker at The Mortgage Centre, I analyze your needs, capabilities and goals, then I help you find the mortgage that offers the best combination of rate, features and flexibility. The result? You get a mortgage that saves you money today and helps you build financial security tomorrow.

Eddie Quindamo

The Mortgage Centre – I Direct Mortgages Inc. License # 10584 Phone

905-652-3000 ext. 200

E-mail

eddie@quindamo.com

Website

www.quindamo.com

Address

6-21 Roysun Road Woodbridge, ON Canada L4L 8R3

Each Mortgage Centre office is independently owned and operated.

Lic#10584

We work for you, not the lenders.

tips

Driven to Raising the Bar

Supreme Collision Centre boosts business by boosting customer confidence.

As the owner of Supreme Collision Centre, a collection of collision repair shops north of Toronto, Marty Reddick typically meets people in less than ideal situations. “No one visits a collision repair centre under happy circumstances,” s a y s R e d d i c k . “ T h e y ’r e stressed and upset that they now have to take time out of a busy day to deal with an unexpected problem. That’s why we’ve made it our goal to make the repair process as quick, as friendly and as painless as possible.”

Walk into any Supreme Collision Centre and you instantly recognize that this is no ordinary collision repair shop. Each location features

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the latest technology and equipment. But probably the biggest surprise is how pristine and organized they are.

“We’ve set up our shops to help our customers feel at ease throughout the repair

– and that starts with a clean, lean work environment. It makes our customers feel a lot more confident that we’ll take good care of them.”

The first Supreme Collision Centre opened in

“We’ve set up our shops to help our customers feel at ease throughout the repair process” process,” explains Reddick.

“We know that the automotive repair business can be intimidating so at Supreme, we’ve worked hard to make the whole process transparent

1963, and now includes locations throughout Thornhill, Aurora and Bolton. The company was named ‘Business of the Year 2006’ by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce and

has been named the Greater Toronto Area’s Top Choice in the Auto Repairs & Services category for the last three consecutive years. Supreme Collision is also the first collision network in Canada to become a national platinum sponsor of WICC, the Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade. “ We ’ v e s e e n a l o t o f increased competition over the years, particularly as large, national chains have entered our market,” says Reddick. “But we’ve been able to not just compete, but grow, because we know that this business isn’t just about repairing vehicles, it’s about supporting our community locally.”

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Year after year, we meet great people by accident.

Since 1963, Supreme Collision Centre has set new standards in quality collision repair for neighbours who have hit a bump in the road.

For the third straight year, our community has thanked us with a Top Choice Award Mark of Excellence and we’re proud to be recognized for our team’s drive to exceed expectations. Because we believe that while dealing with a collision may not be fun, it doesn’t have to be hard.

Visit www.supremecollision.ca to learn more.

Thornhill-North 53 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill ON Tel: 905 764-9216

Thornhill-South 8 Clark Avenue East, Thornhill ON Tel: 905 889-7281

Aurora 15306 Yonge Street, Aurora ON Tel: 905 773-5345

Bolton 520 Piercey Road, Bolton ON Tel: 905 951-9232

TIPS

Selecting Your Wedding’s Dinner Style The perfect wedding requires a lot of planning, but have you considered what type of meal, how it will be served, and the presentation?

By Joseph Vescio, Owner of Roma Hospitality Group You’re getting married, planning the dress, the ceremony and party. But have you considered what type of meal, how it will be served, and the presentation? The wedding meal is an integral and central part of your wedding; often taking centre stage. When selecting the dining scenario, stick to the type that bests suits you and your guest personalities. Here are some tips to best select your wedding dinner style.

Seated Dinner

Buffet

Cocktail Reception

Why choose it:

Why choose it

• If you and your guests enjoy catching up over seated meals

• To offer variety or appeal to more than one culture through multiple main dishes

• For a Ballroom – they are well suited for seated dinners

What you should know • Keep in mind guest preferences or dietary restrictions • Plated vs. French Service; find out what your venue offers, or is willing to let you choose.

• Don’t assume plated dinners are more expensive, a buffet can be more expensive due to variety and return trips.

• If you and your guests are more interested in dancing, chatting and celebrating • If the venue is not suited to a seated dinner or if you want a casual vibe

Why choose it • For a cool party atmosphere • If you love the trend of minis – they go well with cocktails and are great for a party vibe • If you’re having a small number of people for a shorter period of time

What you should know

What you should know

• C o n s i d e r y o u r g u e s t p r e fe rences when it comes to meals and celebrating

• Consider the number of people and the buffet set up. Avoid lines by calling tables. Your guests can continue to enjoy themselves while minimizing wait times for all.

• Don’t assume a cocktail reception will be inexpensive, if the event is long or falls over the dinner hour it may be pricey

• Include your theme and décor on the buffet tables • Follow your wishes rather than perceived cost savings as buffets can be more expensive than seated dinners.

Bottom Line: Whether you choose a seated, buffet or cocktail reception, remember to always consider the style and preferences of you and your guests. Keep the lines of communication open with your venue to make sure the event is celebrated according to your vision. And when it comes to budget don’t make any assumptions, price out the details with the Event Specialist at your Venue.

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www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Tips Article source: RoomSaver.com | http://www.roomsaver.com/resources/travel-safe/

Happy Travel Tips: Safety and Security Travelling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but heading to the airport unprepared could turn your great escape into a painful nightmare.

Follow these tips to help ensure your vacation is one to remember.

1.

Use your business address (or business card) in your luggage tags to avoid revealing your home address and phone number.

2.

Tape a card with your name and address inside every piece of luggage in case the bag is lost and the outside tags get lost as well.

3.

44

Make two photocopies of every important document you’ll be carrying — tickets, driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, passport, vaccination certificates, and so on.

Carry one copy with you (not with the originals) and give one copy to a friend at home. These copies may be lifesavers if you lose the originals.

Fall 2011

4.

Carry a list of toll-free phone numbers for all of your credit and bank cards in case you have to cancel them (if they’re lost or stolen) or if you need to find an ATM to use them at.

5.

Remove old airline destination tags; they’re the main reason bags get lost.

6.

As soon as you get to your hotel room, look for a map of fire escape routes. Be sure to check that the routes are marked correctly and are accessible.

7.

During hot weather, never leave an animal or a child in a parked car — even with the windows open.

8.

If you can find someone to reliably pick up your mail and newspapers while you are traveling, there is less chance that strangers will know no one is home. Another option is to have delivery temporarily stopped; the Post Office can hold mail, and the price of undelivered newspapers is often credited toward future deliveries.

9.

When driving in unfamiliar locales, always park in well-lit areas.

10. Never open your hotel door to a stranger without first calling the front desk to see if hotel management has sent someone to your room.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

go where your

happy

takes you

1245 Dupont St, Toronto.

416. 531.5000

TIPS

Expertise. Skill. Experience.

Craftsmanship. Dedication.

Would you expect anything less for your renovation or remodeling project?

Absolute Interior’s home contractor division has the management expertise and skill set to provide you with a seamless home renovation that will finish both on time and on budget! One of the greatest assets is the level of craftsmanship, experience, and dedication that their employees bring to each and every project.

Through their experience, they have learned that integrity, attention to all details and honesty each step of the way, makes the best working environment for everyone.

Absolute Interior likes to get to know their customers on a first name basis. They pay close attention to their customers, listening to their wishes and needs, delivering

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exactly what each customer envisioned in their remodeling project.

They execute all phases of home improvement. No project is too big or small and they offer free in-home.

Absolute Interior specializes in: • • • • • • •

Total Home and Condo Renovations Commercial Remodeling Kitchen Remodeling Bathroom Renovations Basement Finishing Entertainment Rooms Steam Rooms

• • • • • • •

Tile & Marble Flooring Hardwood Floors Installation & Refinishing Recessed Lighting & Specialty Lighting Professional Painting Water Damage Restorations Smoke and Fire Damage Restorations Indoor Air Quality Assessments

Located at 889 O’Connor Dr. in Toronto, Absolute Interior is not only the right choice, they are the Top Choice for your next renovation or remodeling project. Give them a call at 416 804 1215 or email them at info@ absooluteinterior.ca

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Home Improvement in Style

For the past 10 years Absolute Interior has been providing our clients with award winning renovation and restoration services. As a full service company, our knowledgeable staff puts their skills to work for you ensuring our work meets your expectations.

416 804 1215

|

1 888 455 1476

|

www.absoluteinterior.ca

889 O’Connor Dr. Toronto, On. M4B- 2S7 info@absoluteinterior.ca

Top Bathroom Remodelling Services

of 2011 in the GTA

TIPS

Why Should You Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned?

How professional cleaning can improve breathing conditions and reduce the risk of developing breathing disorders.

By Ted Helps, President of Prestige Duct Cleaning The EPA claims, “Your indoor air quality is found to be 70 % more polluted than the outdoor air.” The Department of Consumer Affairs also states, “Children and the elderly are more likely to be affected by polluted air.” By having your entire air handling system professionally cleaned, you are helping to reduce the risk of developing breathing disorders and reducing dust and pollutants in your home. The Asthma Society of Canada claims that, “Many cases of asthma and breathing disorders are triggered by allergens and pollens, dust mites, moulds and certain air pollutants, all of which can be found being circulated within your home.” Having your air ducts cleaned helps reduce the symptoms of allergies and asthma, as well as reduces the risk of costly repairs to your HVAC system. It will help it run more efficiently and effectively, saving you money year round.

The decision of who you choose to use to have your air ducts professionally cleaned is just as important as the decision to have them cleaned. Just as there are many levels of service and quality in

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Your indoor air quality is found to be 70 % more polluted than the outdoor air. any industry, the same holds true in the air duct cleaning industry as well. Pricing for this service and standards can vary widely.

Make sure the company you choose is reputable, has been in business for some time and offers a guarantee. Remember, the company you choose will need to enter each room in your home and will need to spend a reasonable amount of time to do a thorough cleaning depending on the size of your home.

At Prestige Cleaning, we use only HomeSafe ™ cleaning products, top of the line truck mounted units and equipment and provide industry leading training. We are extremely proud of our entire staff for continuously delivering consistent, high quality service and great value to all of

our clients since 1988. Our technicians are clean cut, uniformed, trained and certified by the Mechanical Systems Hygiene Institute and take a lot of care and concern in your home. Our technicians walk through the cleaning process with you and inspect your air handling system before and after cleaning to show you the benefits and the difference the cleaning has made. All of our staff go through a rigorous screening process before hiring including security checks for our clients’ safety and are full time, permanent, career oriented employees. From the first time you make contact with our company to our post service follow up, we are constantly striving to improve your service experience. All of our work is 100% guaranteed which is stated directly on your invoice.

We would like to thank and congratulate the GTA for choosing one of Ontario’s largest and most respected professional duct cleaning as well as carpet cleaning service providers to residential and commercial clients to receive the Top Choice Award for our 2nd consecutive year.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

DUST

BLOCKAGE

MOLD

DUCT CLEANING FURNACE CLEANING HVAC SYSTEMS

PROFESSIONAL TECHNICIANS BRUSHLESS ROTO-WHIP™ HIGHEST INDUSTRY STANDARDS

“GONE”

Clean air. Proper air flow. Enjoy the cleanest air possible with the highest standard cleaning in the industry.

Since 1996, Prestige Duct Cleaning has strived to provide Southern Ontario customers with the best quality heating system cleaning at reasonable prices. We use an exclusive Roto-Whip™ cleaning system to deliver the direct surface contact cleaning benefits of old-style brush cleaning combined with

www.PrestigeCleaning.ca | 1-888-925-3265

the safety of modern pneumatic cleaning systems.

Top Duct Cleaning Services of 2011 in the GTA - 2 consecutive years

People’s choice Award winner 11 consecutive years

Reader’s choice Award Winner 12 consecutive years

TIPS

Money-saving Energy Tips

Valuable tips from the Energy Advisors at Gemini Electrical Group At the beginning of 2011, the Government of Ontario announced that Hydro prices would increase by 7.5 per cent per year for the next five years. As a home or business owner, this increase will definitely impact your budget. Now, more than ever, people are focusing on saving money and energy. As a consumer, there are many things you can put in place to immediately gain savings. Here are some suggestions: Lighting Reduce your lighting costs and energy loads by up to 80%!

Lighting drives 25% of the average home energy budget and 30% to 40% of the average business energy overhead. The electricity used over the lifetime of a single incandescent bulb costs, on average, 10 times the original purchase price of the bulb itself. LED bulbs have a life span of

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five years, meaning less maintenance and installation fees while offering an environmentally conscious alternative. LED bulbs are a perfect retrofit for existing light fixtures and a great choice for indoor pot lights, soffit lighting, and landscape lighting applications.

One SMall CHange can help you REDUCE YOUR LIGHTING COSTS AND ENERGY LOADS

BY UP TO 80%!

If you are thinking of enhancing the beauty and value of your home with soffit lighting and indoor pot lights, consider LED bulbs as an option. As a listed “Energy Advisor”, talk to us about a lighting audit in your home or business and start SAVING.

Home Automation Remotely control all of your homes electrical devices In the haste of the morning rush it’s not uncommon to second guess whether the coffee machine or one of the lights was turned off. Not only can leaving appliances or lights on be hazardous, it’s not energy efficient. One of the most efficient ways to reduce your energy consumption is with a complete home automation solution which will allow you to manage any electrical device in your home from a remote location with your PC, Smart Phone or tablet. Just think of the convenience of getting home and having your oven pre-heated, or your cottage lights and heat turned on before you arrive.

If you are building a new home, renovating or just want to have full control of your homes electrical devices, let us help you turn your home into a “Smart Home”.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS INC.

Top Electrical Services of 2011 in Vaughan

Tips

Have a Drain Blockage in Your Home?

Here’s what every homeowner should do.

Assess the situation.

Is it something you need to fix immediately or it can wait for few days? Will the small leakage affect other water supply systems or does it need to be fixed alone? Trying to fix a major and interrelated plumbing or drain problem would not be a good idea. People sometimes try to fix the leakage all by themselves or call a good neighbour to save the money they would need to pay the professional service provider. It is important to have the situation and urgency assesed by a professional.

Trying to fix a major blockage or pipe all by yourself can cost you even more in the long run. If the problem is deep, it would require specialized equipments, high-tech machinery, skills and expertise to solve. Trying to solve such a major issue would only make it more complex. A professional drain cleaning contractor can unblock clogged drains without damaging the pipes and flooring of the home, your “good neighbour” can actually make the problem worse and make it cost more to repair. The costs are often affordable and the repair work is done properly and guaranteed.

What’s the reason behind the blockage or damage?

Do you have any clue what could be the possible reason for the blockage or damage? Did it happen only because the whole system has been running for a very

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long time and needs replacement or for casual issues or an unexpected issue like tree roots? Usually when the plumbing system, water supply and pipes work flawlessly people don’t give it a thought. But when pipes block up and overflow, they make quick decisions to fix it. To prevent such a catastrophe, monitor your water supply stem and pipes and when the blockage or leakage happens. try to find out the reason behind it to take the right steps.

Selecting the professional service provider: Selecting the most appropriate professional for your cleaning and blockage problem needs some serious thought. A random selection can be a frustrating experience and more costly eventually. Go for the right one who can ensure that the quality job was done to make sure your building infrastructure was not affected. Emphasize the task at hand while selecting the service provider: is it because of a makeover of a kitchen, bathroom or even a renewal of a plumbing system or renovating an old house you have bought.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

MONEY. TIME. EFFORT. JUST A FEW THINGS WE DON’T WANT YOU TO FLUSH DOWN THE DRAIN

All Plumbing Repairs Plumbing Installations Drain Cleaning Video Inspection Power Washing Sump Pumps Sewage Pumps Water Filtration Water Softening Waterproofing Boiler Heating Repair Top Plumbing Services of 2011 in Toronto, 5 years running

Austin and Greg Tsakopoulos, owners of Priority Plumbing

416-762-8662 PRIORITYPLUMBING.CA Same Day Service | 7 Days a Week Service | Upfront and Fair Pricing | Highly Skilled Technicians | Lifetime Warranty

TIPS

#1: Roofing Contractors Must be Insured Any roof ing contractor you hire, whether for new roofing, roofing repairs or roofing restoration, must carry insurance.

First and foremost is liability insurance, which protects your property in the event it is damaged by the contractor or his employees. Any roofing contractor you’re considering must also carry worker’s compensation insurance. This insurance will protect you should one of the roofing contractors, or one of their workers, gets injured on your property; if they don’t have it you may be liable. Make sure you ask any roofing contractors for proof of insurance before signing a contract or allowing work to begin. A good roofing contractor will expect to show proof of insurance to potential clients.

#2: Roofing Contractors Must be Licenced In order to protect yourself any roofing contractor you hire should be licensed.

Anyone can come in and claim to be an expert but, without a licence, you could potentially expose yourself to financial harm. If an injury or property damage

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occurs during work with an unlicenced roofing contractor the Contractors Board cannot assist you with resolution to a complaint against that contractor. Hiring a licenced roofing contractor also ensures a degree of quality in that it gives you the assurance that the contractor has met the qualifications required by your province.

Every consumer should do their research before hiring Provinces usually have high standards for professional roofing contractors, which contractors must meet before being licensed.

#3: Roofing Contractors Should Guarantee Their Work Most roof materials have a guarantee, but your roofing contractor should too.

The work done by a roofing contractor, including roofing repairs and roof restoration, should be guaranteed for at least a year. Make sure the guarantee is in writing and that it includes a guarantee against leaks, defective materials, and defective

workmanship. It should also detail what will be done to rectify any situation where the guarantee is not met.

#4: Roofing Contractors Should Sign a Contract for Their Work You should ask for a signed contract from even the most reliable roofing companies in Toronto. In the contract they should specify everything from cost and payment to schedule and completion date.

Make sure the project cost, including a reasonable deposit request, is in writing.

And payment schedule and/or due date or timeline should also be in writing. An important item to include in the contract is roof materials and what brand specifically you have agreed upon that will be used.

The contract from your roofing contractor should also include details such as cleanup during and after the project and what happens if anything unexpected occurs during the course of the project or how any change requests are handled.

Roof construction is an important part of the integrity and energy efficiency of a home. So when it comes time to repair or replace a roof it is best to select a roofing company who practices the right roofing techniques.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Article source: Article Base | http://www.articlesbase.com/construction-articles/roofing-companies-4-roofing-projects-to-leave-to-the-pros-3326450.html

Hiring A Roofing Contractor: 4 Secrets You Should Know

QUALITY AND SERVICE ABOVE ALL Safety. Security. Warmth.

IT ALL STARTS WITH A ROOF OVER YOUR HEAD. As a family owned and operated company, we know what’s important to you, because it is exactly what is important to us. For over 10 years, Skyway Roofing has been helping families protect their most valuable assets, their families. With the industry’s best materials and the highest standards of work and employee safety – we get it done right, every time.

Top Roofing Company of 2011 in Toronto

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INSTITUTIONAL, INDUSTRIAL

(416) 259-9600 | www.SkywayRoofing.ca | 300 New Toronto St., Unit 35

Profile

The Man Behind Robert Design Group Robert A. Lotocki gives us the inside story of his company, Robert Design Group.

Robert A. Lotocki, the owner and creator of Robert Design Group Ltd., has been involved in the design and build business for over 20 years. During this time, his priorities among his clientele have been to provide exceptional quality in high end residential and commercial projects. The public has recognized the work his company puts out by voting Robert Design Group Ltd as the Top Choice for Top Design and Build Company of 2009, 2010 and 2011.

Robert Design Group Ltd. not only offers project management, but also interior design services as well. The company also includes services such as construction, renovations and additions, custom furniture designing and building, upholstery, antiques restoration. In addition Robert Design Group Ltd. offers the services of an artist carver, whose unique creations add a unique affect to the projects.

Robert Design Group Ltd. employs workers with a background in “old world craftsmanship” and they also surround

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themselves with carefully selected trades, some of the best available in Ontario.

“Projects range anywhere from house design and realization, kitchen and bathroom plans to wine cellars, libraries, home theatres and offices, just to mentioned

“Clients have full control in the whole process.” a few. A 15,000 sq ft showroom on-location allows our clients to see their projects being created, as well as many other samples of work by our team. In our opinion, this process attributes to the majority of our success. Clients have full control in the whole process.” Says Lotocki.

He continues “Our creativity, focus on customer satisfaction and the highest standard of service on each level, have all contributed to the success of our business”.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Designed for

Functionality Top Design and Build Company of 2011 in the Greater Toronto Area

Robert A. Lotocki, owner and creative inspiration behind Robert Design Group Ltd. has been in design business for over 20 years. During this time, his reputation among builders and designers alike has been to provide exceptional quality in high end residential and commercial projects.

Project Management

Custom Furniture

Upholstery

Restoration & Refinishing

Interior Design

Hand Carvings

Antiques

Renovations & Additions

Transforming Commercial and Residential spaces into masterpieces

905-624-7345 • www.robertdesigngroup.com 1102 Aerowood Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L4w 1Y5

ROBERT Design Group Ltd.

Food

Make-ityourself!

Golden Portuguese-Style Cod Fish Travel to the most Western point of Europe with this authentic Portuguese dish that will make you fall in love with Portugal’s most traditional fish, Cod. Ingredients 500 g. Dried and Salted Cod Fish 4 table spoons of olive oil 500 g. potatoes 350 g. onions 5 eggs 2 garlic gloves 1 table spoon of shredded parsley Black olives 1 Tomato Salt and pepper

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Preparation 1.

Soak the cod overnight in plenty of cold water with the skin up.

2.

On the next day, after removing the bones and skin from the cod, squash the pieces with the help of a cloth (wrap the pieces in a cloth and squash until the cod is in shreds).

3.

Peel the potatoes and cut them into very thin strips, wash in water several times, drain and dry.

4.

Peel and finely chop the garlic.

5.

Peel the onions and slice very thinly.

6.

Beat eggs and add salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking 1.

In a frying pan heat the olive oil and add the chopped garlic. When the garlic begins turning brown, add the potatoes and fry until they begin softening. Stip the potatoes frequently to avoid them sticking together. The potatoes must look more boiled than fried. Remove the potatoes and reserve.

2.

In the same olive oil add the onions and fry until transparent. Add the shredded bacalhau and stir with the onions. Let cook for five minutes. Add the fried potatoes, stir, and add the beaten eggs. Stir continuously at medium heat until the eggs are soft.

3.

Serve hot, garnished with shredded parsley, sliced tomato and black olives.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Authentic Portuguese meets fine dining Churrasqueira Martins Grill House completely redefines the Portuguese restaurant experience by combining traditional Portuguese cuisine with the flare and finesse of fine dining. Martin’s is the new Portuguese.

(416) 657-4343 605 Rogers Rd. Unit #1 Toronto, On ChurrasqueiraMartins.com

Top Portuguese Restaurant of 2011 in Toronto

Technology

Our future and success is dependent on what we do today with what we’re given

Modern Technology: Are You Ready For It? Does your success count on technology or is it sufficient enough to use technology as a support mechanism?

By Marco Luccisano, Founder of 1 Stop PC Solutions In today’s ever-evolving world we find technology, in its varied and wondrous form, in any direction we look. In the late 60s, a small group of scientists communicated with each other across two buildings within the same campus (spanning the hemispheres wasn’t even a thought yet!) by way of an electronic terminal at either end. This “blip”, if you will, gave rise to one of man’s greatest inventions… the internet (originally known as Arpanet).

Their faint glimmer of hope paved the way to re-focus our future to depths and realms we could never have imagined if it were not for their success. Almost 50 years later, we are still at the forefront of this discovery… are you ready for what lies ahead?

Personal computers and handheld devices quickly come to mind, conjuring up images of instant messaging, unlimited high speed downloads, endless hours of global conversation…all at your fingertips.

I won’t bore you with the obvious…with what you can clearly see all around you. I will mention, however, that a number of years ago one of the tech fads that came to light, no pun intended, were night vision goggles. Expensive and awkward, they

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created quite a buzz among the tech savvy and the novice geeks alike. But when you examine the timeline of this “latest technology” you will notice that the American military de-militarized these devices for civilian use. Furthermore, they had been using night vision goggles for the past 25 years prior to making them available for public sale. What does this mean? To say the very least, modern technology, in the public eye, is at least a quarter century behind military de-classification. Close your eyes and just imagine all that could possibly exist already…or does exist and we just don’t know about it yet.

I used to spend countless hours ripping computers apart only to rebuild them, making them faster, bigger, and quieter.

The adrenalin rush was indescribable. I felt like I had accomplished a great feat and was rewarded with something new. I can’t even imagine how it would feel to develop a microchip to be implanted in one’s brain, connecting neural networks and ocular pathways of the blind, giving sight where none previously existed. Robotic limbs that interconnect with our nervous system and controlled by our brain, articulating in any

direction, moving better and faster than any human arm or leg, are already in the lab. Impossible? Google it.

Of course, it can be said that there’s nothing wonderful about technology. It can be boring at times, disappointing, uneventful, even threatening. Some naysayers would even argue that technology isn’t needed…it will one day take employment opportunities away from the working man. I, on the other hand, and in my own humble opinion, believe that technology should be embraced and harnessed to carve a steady and clear path for our fellow man.

High-tech innovation gives way to further advancements in technology in countless fields…bio-medical, agricultural, manufacturing, to name a few. We wouldn’t be where we are today if it weren’t for the scientific creations and discoveries of our past. Our future and success is dependent on what we do today with what we’re given.

In the grand scheme of things, we might just be spinning our wheels and end up going nowhere fast. But, at a much smaller and more personal level, two colleagues changed the world…because they wanted to. What do you want to do today?

This article is dedicated to the memory of a great pioneer and visionary of our time who helped forge, redefine and impact modern technology. Steve Jobs, Founder of Apple, will be missed but never forgotten.

Editor’s Note Marco Luccisano joins Top Choice Media as a contributing editor with his debut article, “Modern Technology: Are You Ready For It?” Delving into the world of technology, he offers his insight and experience for all our Top Choice Readers.

As co-owner and founder of 1 Stop PC Solutions, Marco brings many years of computer-related experience to the Top Choice team. As such, he and his team have been chosen as I.T. Specialist to Top Choice Media Group.

Get in touch with Marco by calling (416) 662-4324 or visiting www.1stoponline.ca

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

Interior Plaster Mouldings

T P CHOICE MAGAZINE

REVIEWED

If you know of a business who is your “Top Choice” call us at (416) 662-2123 or email us at info@topchoicemagazine.com to give us the details and we’ll make sure to pay them a visit.

Wincon Security and Investigation Services

Your safety matters to Wincon Security who’s team of specialists is trained to handle all aspects of security.

Whether it’s maintaining the control of large crowds, handling loss prevention for businesses in the retail sector, or monitoring your home security - Wincon is prepared to do whatever they can to keep their customers out of harm’s way. So if you’re looking into taking preventative steps and measures to ensure proper security for your home or business, Wincon is the way to go - they do what they do best, keeping you safe.

The Centre for Dreams

It all began with a dream 20 years ago, when Elaine Vollett, the mother of an intellectually challenged adult, wanted to help her son and others like him lead a normal life. Vollett created The Centre for Dreams, a day program dedicated to providing a curriculum designed specifically for adults living with a developmental challenge. Here, these special individuals are provided with educational programs and social skills training which will help ensure they become productive, independent, dignified and respected members of their community.

The Painters Group

In today’s society, many of us are constantly on the go. Between work and our growing families, we don’t have much time to stop and take a breather, nevermind trying to find time to give our living space a much needed facelift. Whether you’re redecorating or moving into a new house, The Painters Group (TPG) provides a number of services for residential customers to make their lives simpler. They provide both interior and exterior painting, faux finishes, taping and plastering, stucco, dryway repairs, deck and wood staining, colour matching to original and 24 hour emergency services. TPG provides value and top quality in all the work that they do.

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100 Ironside Crescent Unit 1 Markham, On M1X 1M9 905-415-1112 wincon-security.com

58 Main St. N., Unit 19B Markham, Ont. 905-209-9092 www.dreamsinc.ca

2719 Bur oak Ave., Unit 2 Markham, Ont., L6B 1K7 905-294-7777 www.thepaintersgroup.ca

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

PROTECT YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSETS

Your family and your home.

Special Offer for new customers!

3 month free monitoring | No contract | Free home security audit

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OUR JOB’S NOT COMPLETE UNTIL YOU’RE SATISFIED. In our line of work, we know how

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®

T

RE P CH VI OICE M E W AG A EDZINE

Foresite Furnished Suites

Foresite Furnished Suites isn’t just a room with a bed where you can stay for a night or two while away on business or vacation. With 63 units, mostly furnished and a few unfurnished, this place is somewhere cozy you can go for an extended stay. Open seven days a week, the average stay is about 3 months, with a 30 day minimum. Each room has it’s own kitchen, and washer and dryer, and there is also a meeting room available upon request. Here, you can feel at home - think of Foresite Furnished Suites, as your home away from home.

Markham Endoscopy Diagnostics Inc.

No one likes getting sick. In fact, many of us don’t even like going to the doctor. You don’t have to be sick to get a regular check-up. It’s about preventative measures. Markham Endoscopy is a leading-edge 8,000 sq. ft. medical facility that provides its patients with a wide range of endoscopic interventions all covered

by OHIP - and are one of the first few clinics to offer these services outside of public hospitals. They have 12 doctors, 20 full-time and part-time nurses, and see about 200 patients a week. At Markham Endoscopy, they try to match or exceed the service you would get in a hospital. Though instead of resting in a bed, you have a big comfy Lazyboy recliner at your disposal.

YOUR ONLY

65 Times Ave. Markham, Ont. 905-709-7557 www.foresitesuites.com

100 Renfrew Drive., Unit 130 Markham, Ont. 905-948-9119 www.markham-endoscopy.com

ON THE INFORMATION HIGHWAY

PC SOLUTIONS

computer and network services Server, desktop and laptop services for corporate and personal users including:

software installation/upgrade hardware installation/upgrade virus, spyware, trojan removal wired/wireless network setup data recovery password recovery private tutoring

IT specialist of Top Choice Media Group (416) 662-4324 www.1stoponline.ca info@1stoponline.ca 64

Fall 2011

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

A Green Healthy Lawn, The Easy Way.

Organic Lawn Care Dedicated to providing you with beautiful lawn using all environmentally friendly products.

Tree Planting/Pruning Expert tree trimming and pruning is available. Tree spraying using environmental products. We can supply and install any size of tree.

Sprinkler Systems Watering solutions for your lawn, flower beds, trees etc. Installation, repair and maintenance.

Landscape Design Green Spruce offers landscape design and construction services. All work is performed by our experienced horticulturist staff. Green Spruce utilizes the latest landscaping machinery to design your grounds according to your specifications Natural Stonescaping Industry-leading machinery allows us to perform the most detailed and challenging projects out of stone. We custom design to meet your special needs, residential or commercial.

greenspruce LANDSCAPING & SNOW REMOVAL LTD.

TOP LANDSCAPING SERVICES OF 2011 IN VAUGHAN

1 1 2 B A S A LT I C R D . U N I T 8 , C O N C O R D , O N L 4 K 1 G 6

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W W W. G R E E N S P R U C E . C O M

Business

Overcoming Business Doubts

“There is nothing more dreadful than the habit of doubt. Doubt separates people. It is a poison that disintegrates friendships and breaks up pleasant relations. It is a thorn that irritates and hurts; it is a sword that kills.” - Buddha

By Sandy Caetano When I initially read this quote, it made me think about doubt and the damage it can cause. We’ve all been doubtful at one time or another. It’s perfectly natural to be cautious. However, in business, doubt can be debillitating.

Doubt is a feeling of uncertainty - it’s a status of belief and disbelief. When we doubt ourselves, we are usually unsure of something. Doubt raises many questions and from one question comes another.

Being inquisitive is a good thing. Asking questions produces answers.

In the business world, there is no room for doubt. It’s the cause of delay and confusion, which can result in mistakes or failures. When you doubt yourself in business, you become unsure of your business - unsure of your product or service. That in itself will drive away clients, customers and potential business relationships. It can drive a wedge between co-workers, business partners and even between the business and its clients.

We all have to take a chance in life, that’s the way life works. It’s about taking

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an opportunity and going with it. It’s about confidence. Believe in yourself, believe in what it is your are trying to sell and you’re bound to succeed.

No business is going to profit and become successful overnight. It takes a lot of hard work, determination, perseverance and the will to keep going no matter how many times you are knocked down or how

In the business world, doubt can be your worst enemy. many doors are slammed in your face. If you believe in yourself and your business, there’s no telling what you can do.

In the business world, doubt can be your worst enemy. This feeling of hesitation to believe you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, can and will hold you back. Taking your time to make a decision is wise, though.

Doubt is not always a bad thing, it can actually be good. How you ask?

Well, for starters, you shouldn’t believe everything people tell you. You do have to protect yourself and your business in order to grow and become successful. So when you are doubtful or weary of something, try to find out what really is. Don’t just assume it’s right or wrong, do the legwork and research to come to a reasonable decision.

In order to overcome negative thinking, you must conquer your doubt or it will eat you alive. Your drive to make your business prosper must be strong enough to withstand anything. Keep in mind, that no one can make you stop doubting, you’re the only one who can will it away.

Instead of not trusting anyone or anything, deicide to trust. You can decide to doubt, but find the right information to help you get past your doubt. Don’t doubt yourself. Stand your ground. Believe in yourself. Be positive. And most of all - be confident.

www.TopChoiceMagazine.com

COMING SOON TO MISSISSAUGA CITY CENTRE Coming soon to Mississauga’s downtown core, in the Square One area: the Mirage Condominiums, from the Conservatory Group. Located at 335 Rathburn Road, the Mirage will be the second in a series of three condominium buildings which began with the spectacular Universal Condos. The building will likely be completed in the next several months, with units for sale / presale sometime early next year.

Call now for price incentive!

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IT’S WHERE YOUYOU IT’S WHERE WANTWANT TO BE! TO BE! Imagine a location that’sImagine close atolocation it all …TTC yourto doorstep, Transit, that’s at close it all …TTCGO at your doorstep, GO Transit, to Highways 401 and 427 are nearby.

Cloud in 9 isa ideally located in a access to Highways 401access and 427 are all nearby.

Cloud 9 isallideally located well-established residential with beautifully its mature trees and beautifully well-established residential neighbourhood with itsneighbourhood mature trees and maintained family awayParks, you’ll Schools, find Shops, Parks, Schools, maintained family homes.

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Canada’s Fashion authority

TORONTO TOWER Named after the city’s towering landmark, the mix of sweet and green flavours with a hint of lime makes it an excellent unisex drink.

Ingredients: 1 3/4 oz (50 ml) Grey Goose Vodka 1 oz (25 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice 3/4 oz (20 ml) sugar cane syrup 3 dashes celery bitters Top sparkling water

Directions: Build cocktail in a highball glass and stir. Garnish with lemongrass and a sprig of fresh mint.

Please drink responsibly. www.greygoosevodka.com