Q_01_web-singlepage_Jun15

QMAGAZINE
Toronto West

Tonight’s Dinner:
Spaghetti alla
Carbonara with
pancetta and
freshly grated
Parmigiano
Reggiano
Shop the Saks Food Hall by Pusateri’s for all the freshest,
finest ingredients and the city’s best prepared foods.
Now open at CF Sherway Gardens.
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CF Sherway Gardens 25 The West Mall | pusateris.com

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Elegant designs, unique pieces,
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CONTENTS
Editor's Letter
CF Sherway Gardens
Saks Fifth Avenue IS IN TOWN
Real Estate
Automotive
Beauty, Health & Wellness
Family Fun & Activities
5

Letter from the editor
Toronto’s West end is blooming
For some of us Etobicoke is home, for others it’s where they
work, dine, play, go for jogs, bike rides and strolls along the
water front; or just sit with a loved one and watch the sunset
over Lake Ontario. For some it’s a gateway to the hustle and
bustle of downtown Toronto and for many a goldmine, a
place where they forge their legacy and make their mark in
the city’s landscape.
Watching a neighbourhood’s transformation is incredibly
exciting. If you know Etobicoke then you are seeing it turn
slowly but surely into a powerhouse, a potential driving
force in the GTA economy. Toronto’s west end skyline and
streetscapes are being reshaped with towering lakefront
condo developments, rows of beautiful townhouses where
older bungalows used to sit and new boutique businesses
popping up everywhere.
Q magazine aims to be your portal to this development
and an introduction to the movers and shakers that are not
only part of the change but also leading the way. For those
wondering, Q stands for the Queensway, the major street that
is the western extension of Queen Street West. Q Magazine is
coming to you as the reflection and expression of Etobicoke’s
greater area revitalization. Each issue will introduce you to
the businesses, people, places and events that are helping
make this already great neighbourhood even more dynamic,
livable and lovable.
Since real estate is the most visual transformation of a
neighbourhood, we have decided to focus on the local
real estate scene for this premier issue. Take a moment
and discover some of the West End’s most passionate and
committed real estate agents and brokers as they share their
market insights and the secrets to their inspiring success.
A car for some is an extension of themselves, a first
introduction of who they are. Etobicoke is home to The
Humberview Group, the leading automotive family business
that is matching the wheels with the personality. In this issue
we introduce you to some of the driven people who are part
of this constantly adapting and innovative organisation.
In each edition we will feature an event that has a significant
impact on the local economy. Stealing the headlines this
season was one of the biggest retail renovations jobs in
North America, which took place right here in Etobicoke: the
multimillion dollar renovation of CF Sherway Gardens and
its much anticipated opening of Saks Fifth Avenue.
If you’re reading this, you have a vested interest in the
West end, so please reach out and share your comments,
suggestions and feedback.
Maya S. Merchant
Publisher
maya@stand-deal.com
On the cover:
The Humber Bay Bridge
Every edition our cover will be a tribute to a popular landmark
from the West End. For our launch issue, it had to be the iconic
Humber Bay Bridge. The 100-metre span traverses the Humber
River with its elegant white arches. It was built in 1994 but the
landmark retains a modern, clean look. It is also a powerful
symbol of connection in several senses: between the former Old
Toronto and Etobicoke municipalities, it runs along an ancient
aboriginal trading route, and its design considers a balanced
relationship with the environment by avoiding having any
disrupting elements in the river. A landmark such as this and the
excellent Waterfront Trail also represent an important meeting
point for people of the communities that make up Toronto West.
QMAGAZINE
Toronto West
i l l u s t r a t i o n : Ian Woo
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FOLLOW ME AT:

TORONTO WEST
p h o t o e s s a y : Ian Woo
The municipality of Etobicoke no
longer exists, but most people who are
from or live in the Toronto West region
still refer to it with the old name.
Boutique style shopping, quaint dining
spots, local services, an abundance of
green space, parkland and a waterfront
trail, in addition to convenient access
to TTC and Go Transit stations make
Etobicoke and its surrounding a great
downtown lifestyle alternative.
Home to some of the most beautiful
neighbourhoods such as Islington
village, Toronto's Village of Murals, and
the European-style Bloor West Village,
the area’s charm is unparalleled.
For a well-planned community
designed for families, look no further
than Kingsway Park. The streets are
pedestrian friendly, and the schools,
shopping, churches, and recreation are
all within walking distance.
The combination of old and new is
part of the charm. The proximity to the
frenetic pace of the business center and
the calmer, relaxed community feel
of the various neighbourhoods makes
Toronto West a great place for young
professionals, families, retirees and
students alike.
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10

CF
SHERWAY
GARDENS
By Aviva Vetter
Photos: Wilson Hyung Studio
& CF Sherway Gardens
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Managing one of the biggest renovations and investments in
Canadian retail history is something to be proud of.
As part of the executive management team of one of the two malls
that brought Saks Fifth Avenue to Canada, Andy Traynor, General Manager,
has witnessed CF Sherway Gardens rise to new heights, a far cry from its
ground breaking in 1971.
With more space and modern design comes an abundance of high-end
stores that customers have been craving, making it the ultimate one-stopshop
for fashionable shopping and recreation. The new vision for the mall
includes a smoother shopping experience from the moment you arrive to
the minute you leave the grounds—after a long day’s shop, of course.
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Andy Traynor
General Manager:
CF Sherway Gardens
When did expansion plans for CF Sherway Gardens begin?
You could easily say that the shopping centre has been in some
form of expansion since we opened up 45 years ago, in the
sense that we are constantly looking to meet our customers’
needs and wants while adapting with the times. The big name
stores of that time were Simpson’s and Eaton’s and the property
was shaped as a figure ‘S’ for Sherway. The popularity of the
mall, compelled us to continue growth, and so the mall then
became a figure ‘8’.
The vision for what you see here today began about five
years ago. In short, running out of retail space prompted this
expansion. The demand is high. We needed to find a way to get
all interested parties on board to join in on our growing success.
We began with a compelling vision, presented it to the board
and the next thing we knew, the construction hats were on, and
the demolition trucks were on site.
This new modern layout, with a price tag of $550 million
is incidentally one of the largest investments that Cadillac
Fairview has ever made in an existing property.
What is the sense of community at CF Sherway Gardens
and how does it impact the surrounding neighborhood?
We are very proud of our roots in the city’s west end. CF Sherway
Gardens is owned by the Ontario Teacher’s Pension Plan, which
just goes to show how much they believe in the vision and
sense of community this property brings to the neighborhood.
CF Sherway Gardens is a central place, which serves so many
purposes for so many people. It’s a complete shopping and
dining experience that the property is shaping for Toronto’s
West end in a very dynamic and positive way.
Has CF Sherway Gardens’ success grown since the expansion?
CF Sherway Gardens has always been a great, fully leased
successful mall, but with the expansion our success rate has
grown to a historical high. People from the surrounding areas
come to shop at the property because of our on-trend retail
partners. The mall is in one of the best locations and it draws
tourists and locals alike.
What firm is behind the new design?
Gervais Harding and Dialogue were the architects we worked
with. The vision stems from our internal committee, going
back to at least 2008, when it was just the beginnings of an idea.
We envisioned incorporating many artistic elements and we
wanted to make the most out of the space.
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In terms of the expansion, what’s new in retail?
We worked 50 new stores into the plan. Many of them are
new to market stores, meaning that they are first to Ontario,
and even new to Canada. For example, we‘ve just launched
Saks Fifth Avenue, which happens to be one of the only two
storefronts in Canada – the other at CF Toronto Eaton Centre.
The Saks Food Hall featuring Pusateri’s Fine Foods is another
great addition to the property. We feel proud that we've been
able to accomplish major milestones in just the last few years.
To the retailer roster we’ve added Ted Baker London, DeBeers,
Nespresso, Samsung, Uno De 50, Free People with Spring
opening of Indigo and a 3-level Sport Chek. Nordstrom is set to
open in early 2017, and more. We didn’t have the opportunity
to open any of these stores before the renovations, so this is
an exciting time in CF Sherway Gardens’ history. For example,
Harry Rosen re-located to a flagship store within the expansion
and doubled their square footage.
The mall is generally one level, except for a few of the stores,
like H&M, which are two-level once you enter. The team has
really found innovative ways to maximize the space. One of the
great features of a one-level mall is that it’s easier to navigate.
In fact, we have a running joke among colleagues – stick to the
right and you won’t get lost. In all seriousness though, it’s like
walking downtown, and the lack of escalators makes it easier
on those with children as well as people with limited mobility.
We work closely with the stores to ensure we’re all on the same
page when it comes to the premium look and feel we endeavor
to portray to our customers.
Aside from the retail influx, what are some of the new
elements of the expansion?
This latest expansion has allowed us to improve on the parking,
the dining experience as well as the technology side of
things. Our objective was to make your trip to CF Sherway
Gardens an enjoyable and smooth experience.
The parking conditions needed an overhaul.
Parking facilities now have a better layout, with
the addition of three level parking decks in very
close proximity to the mall rather than the
traditional one level outdoor parking which
forced you to walk a fair distance before
reaching one of the entrances.
One of the main challenges with
parking that we set out to solve was
finding a way to save time—to
do that we looked to increase
efficiency. After all, parking can
lend a lot to how enjoyable your
shopping experience turns
out. We introduced parking
navigation. A simple tool
using red and green
sensors, so that when you
get to the property, you
can drive straight to
the spot with a green
light, thereby saving
shoppers the hassle
of driving up and
down the rows. On the technology side of things, we’ll be
launching a smartphone app that will let you know where
the best available parking stalls are located making it easy to
plan your shopping trip accordingly before you even leave
the comforts of your home. Another program that we recently
launched is a concierge tool called CF SHOP! Text, a text-based
concierge service which gives consumers access to advanced
guest services at their fingertips. Shoppers can ask anything
from whether there is a specific store at the property to the
location of anything within the facility. In addition to improved
WiFi accessibility, we’ve also incorporated new digital
directories, outlining the exact path you need to take to
get to a desired location.
Continuing to evolve the definition of a
shopping centre, we are upping the game
by providing best-in-class options
from food to fashion. Our food
court, which was actually one
of the first food courts to be
built into a mall in all of
North America back in
1971, was moved to
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a new section within the 210,000
square foot expansion. We kept the
name, Gourmet Fare, and doubled the seating
capacity, added a modern layout to make it more
pleasing to the eye and built it in a way that allowed for
natural light to flow through. In addition, fifteen beautiful
Halo Chandeliers, commissioned from Roll & Hill, a high-end
lighting design house based in Brooklyn, New York, are hung
throughout the Gourmet Fare.
To maintain the level of luxury found throughout the property,
we added Bar Freddo to the Gourmet Fare, an exciting new
concept incorporating a wine bar, artisanal Italian cuisine and
gelato. We made the space more inviting for guests adding
a variety of seating options so that shoppers are able to take
the time they need to reenergize before continuing on their
experience within the property.
Along with the new look and feel of the food court came
a few new restaurants to add to the mix. CF Sherway
Gardens has welcomed premium dining options including
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, JOEY Sherway, Beaumont
Kitchen, a stylish dining lounge by Oliver & Bonacini
featuring California-inspired cuisine within the Saks Fifth
Avenue store, and the soon-to-open Cactus Club Café,
which hails from the West Coast.
Our goal with any new component we introduce is to make the
experience seamless for our shoppers. The bottom line is that
we want to heighten the journey for our customers at everyone
moment by continuing to innovate the shopping experience.
Are the renovations almost finished? When do you
foresee an end date?
This phase in the redevelopment is almost complete though
we will keep looking for opportunities to improve the property,
staying in line with the demand from our customers. We always
strive to bring in the best of what our customers are seeking.
How would you position CF Sherway Gardens?
CF Sherway Gardens is a niche shopping centre in terms
of price. We are positioned as a moderate-to-high priced
mall. You’ll find stores like H&M all the way to Saks Fifth
Avenue though we are moving towards attracting higher end,
luxury retailers. This is how we are branded in retail. We are
categorized as a super-regional mall, meaning that we draw
from an extended trade area beyond the local and we are
extremely accessible shopping district due to our location along
major highways.
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“CF Sherway Gardens has
welcomed premium dining options
including The Keg Steakhouse + Bar,
JOEY Sherway, Beaumont Kitchen, a stylish
dining lounge by Oliver & Bonacini featuring
California-inspired cuisine within the Saks Fifth
Avenue store, and the soon-to-open Cactus Club
Café, which hails from the West Coast.”
What is the meaning behind the sculptures placed
throughout CF Sherway?
Introducing the element of art to any space can be very inviting.
Art in general can bring comfort, peace and a great deal of
meaning to any facility. The horse sculptures located in the court
in front of Saks Fifth Avenue were created by local Canadian
artist, John McEwen, and are entitled ‘The Miracle’. The horses
are constructed out of stars that are individually melded together
and represent the relationship between a parent and child.
Furthermore, the installation nicely complements the tie between
high fashion and fine art.
The sculptures have proven to be a beautiful attraction that’s
created an inviting area for shoppers.
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Where do you see the mall in 5-10 years?
Our ultimate vision is to reach the list of top five
shopping centers in North America. We feel confident that
by continuing to enhance the shopping experience on the
trajectory we are on now, we will get there.
How’s this experience been for you?
It’s been a wonderful experience all around. At the end of the
day all the improvements to the property are for our customers
and seeing their reactions and hearing their positive feedback
to the expansion is the best testament to what we are doing at
CF Sherway Gardens.
CF Sherway Gardens, 25 The West Mall, Toronto
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SAKS
IS IN
TOWN
One of the world’s leading luxury retailers,
Saks Fifth Avenue, was ushered into Canada after
extensive preparation, design and development.
With two locations—Downtown at CF Toronto
Eaton Centre and further West in Etobicoke at
CF Sherway Gardens—Saks is set to introduce a
new level of shopping to Toronto.
By: Aviva Vetter
Photos: Courtesy Saks Fifth Avenue
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Marc Metrick, President of Saks Fifth Avenue expressed
"We are so excited to bring the best of Saks to Toronto.
After more than two years of planning, our entry into
Canada is truly a milestone for our company. We cannot
wait to bring the Saks experience of an elegant edit
of the best designer names, coupled with distinctive,
personalized service to Toronto."
Now in full swing, with first-rate expertise and exemplary
client services, Saks has already drawn crowds from near
and far with luxurious lines such as Dior, Valentino, Louis
Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Chloé, Céline, Prada, Alexander
McQueen, Stella McCartney, Givenchy and Alaïa.
Saks Fifth Avenue was the result of Horace Saks and
Bernard Gimbel’s vision to create a unique store that
exuded fashion, sophistication and refined living. The
two left their mark on society when they launched the
first dream store in 1924 in the heart of New York City.
Their collaboration was the beginning of what the world
would one day know as the shopping destination for taste
and elegance. As part of the Hudson’s Bay Company brand
portfolio with roots firmly planted in the United States
and locations around the world, Saks has since grown into
one of the world’s preeminent luxury brand retailers.
Setting the fashion pace of the public sphere by providing
nothing less than the best in men’s and women’s
international designer collections, expertly edited
assortment of handbags, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, gifts
and services, Saks is the go-to place for the latest in style
straight from the runway.
Aside from the extraordinary top-tier brands such as
women’s advanced and emerging designer ready-towear—like
Etro and Proenza Schouler, men’s sportswear,
tailored clothing and men’s advanced contemporary – like
Rag & Bone and Vince, Saks has been working on giving
special attention to the impact of customer service on
your overall shopping experience.
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The high-end retailer also brings a unique approach to
premiere service called Saks at Your Service—geared
towards fulfilling your distinctive needs. If you can’t make
it to the store, this bespoke shopping service recreates the
Saks atmosphere in the comfort of your home, office or
hotel. The anytime, anywhere amenity allows you to shop
without the need to cross the store’s threshold.
The Fifth Avenue Club feature was also unveiled as
a private shopping service for both men and women
featuring trained specialists for personalized styling.
Club Associates have an intimate knowledge of the store
and can easily assemble personalized selections for you,
to your heart’s content—all in a private dressing room.
Clients are encouraged to get a makeover or an express
facial with an expert, as well as fragrance consultation.
Every beauty counter is staffed with artists to get you
ready for your night on the town with red carpet treatment
or provide you with the makeup class you desire.
The shoe salon pays homage to the decor of the original
shoe department in New York’s flagship store and boasts
more than 600 different pairs of women’s shoes, from
designers such as Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik and
Chloe. The decor includes custom hand-knotted Tibeten
wool and silk inset area rugs by Toby Revis Studio along
with handcrafted wall coverings by Maya Romanoff and
Phillip Jeffries.
The men’s department is inspired by their new awardwinning
men’s concept – The Saks Fifth Avenue Man,
including modern haberdashery modeled after the Library
of Congress. Distinctive finishes include a masculine
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layering of warm oak accents and hammered brass
accents. While custom full-length displays divide the
space without obstructing the area.
The experience doesn’t stop at fashion and service. The
18,500 square foot culinary experience that Saks boasts is
nothing short of exquisite. What better way to complete
your shopping experience than to stop by the first-of-itskind
Saks Food Hall by Pusateri’s, or their new restaurant
concept called Beaumont Kitchen.
The Saks Food Hall by Pusateri’s offers a unique blend
of premium food shopping and food experiences
waiting to be explored. Enjoy the Champagne Bar with
plates to share, the finest, freshest sushi or shop an
unparalleled assortment to take home: the city’s best
fresh produce, artisanal pastries and breads, gourmet
prepared foods, premium cuts from the butcher
and fishmongers, charcuterie and cheese and an
unmatched selection of fine foods and pantry items.
While Beaumont Kitchen, spearheaded by distinguished
Chef Michael Hay, comprises an all-day dining lounge
serving West Coast specialties.
With a clear tribute to Canada’s culture and nature,
the overall museum-like quality of the store possesses
strong design aesthetics influenced by concepts of
the Canadian wilderness and elements of our varying
climate. The extremely sleek sophisticated environment
features expertly detailed ceilings throughout along
with organic domes and recessed cove lighting to create
an inviting place to relax while perusing the plethora of
goods at your fingertips.
www.saksfifthavenue.com
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Kim Edmonds
Founder:
Art Connect
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p h o t o s : Wilson Huynh Studio
With over ten years experience working in the interior
design industry, eight of which were spent at Katherine
Newman Design - one of the most influential and
accomplished interior design firms in the country - Kim
decided to follow her passion and branch out on her own to
launch Art Connect.
Art Connect is a full service art advisory firm which
functions in helping source and purchase art from around
the world for their clients.
How did Art Connect come to life?
I wanted to embark on a project that would incorporate
my skill set and extensive background in design. Working
in interior design I found the best experience for me was
moving through the phases of construction, furnishings
and lighting, then incorporating art as the finishing touch.
I wanted to take the part I loved the most and immerse
myself in it, by starting a firm with the exclusive service of
helping my clients find art for their space, be it residential or
corporate.
Can you walk us through your process?
In theory, I could begin at any time during the design
process – whether it’s in the middle of renovations, right
after a move, or when someone feels they need to make a
change or add to their existing collection. However, it’s most
common that I come in closer to the end stage of a redesign.
The initial consultation could take place anywhere, but the
most ideal is the space where the art will live. This gives me
a chance to see the space and gain an understanding of the
client’s aesthetics. We discuss how many spaces they are
looking to purchase art for, their style, likes and dislikes,
any particular genre of art they are interested in and budget.
Then I would begin sourcing the pieces. I typically start
by emailing images to my client to see what peaks their
interest, they may come to a gallery with me, or I would take
the art on approval so my client can see it in their space.
Once the art has been approved, I then address framing,
if required, and present framing options and oversee this
process straight through to installation, on site, with my
installation team.
Is art more about the investment or the aesthetics?
It’s a little bit of both, but essentially, collecting art is more
about buying something that you love. Whether it will
increase in value shouldn’t be the priority. Choosing a piece
that speaks to you and elicits a feeling every time you look at
it is of more value.
What would be a good financial starting point to source
art for a three-bedroom house?
There is such a broad spectrum of art available depending
on your budget. You can start small and buy from emerging
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artists and find amazing pieces ranging from $500 - $1000.
On the other side of the spectrum, the sky’s the limit.
Pieces can easily climb up to tens of thousands of dollars
and beyond. In some cases, galleries may offer a payment
plan allowing clients to pay in installments rather than all
at once, which some clients may find appealing. Another
approach I’ve seen work well for my clients is working
through their home over time, beginning with one room and
moving to the next when the time is right.
What does the financial investment look like?
Generally, a retainer fee is the first step, followed by billing
on an hourly rate. Galleries or artists typically provide a
commission to an advisor, which I then pass along to my
client, thereby stressing the benefit of working with an
advisor. Depending on the value of the art this can result in
savings of hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
What is the creative process of choosing art?
Taking the direction I have been given by my client and
finding something that excites them. It can be challenging
sometimes to find just the right piece; I may go out on a
limb and show my client something unexpected and often
the results are positive and I end up broadening my client’s
interests. As an art advisor it’s not only my job to source
art but to educate my clients as well. Art should spark
conversation and create a reaction. Sometimes the best art is
that which forces you to think about something in a different
way. I’m also careful not to match the art to the space. It
should stand out, and in some cases, create tension. It’s
more the scale and placement of the art which should relate
to the space.
How would you describe your clientele?
I would describe my clients as people who have an
appreciation for aesthetics and want to incorporate art into
their environment, but may not know where to start or
simply do not have the time to find pieces on their own. A
large segment of my client base are business professionals
balancing work and home life leaving little time to address
their empty walls.
What is an average timeline from start to finish?
It really ranges based on the scale of the project and my
client’s availability. Some clients want to work quickly while
others like to take a more casual approach and buy pieces
over the course of many months. I carry a mental catalogue
of art with me, and most of the time, I can pick out the one
that would be best suited to the space.
What kind of art do you work with?
I work with any medium, photography, painting, sculpture,
watercolour, drawing, collage, digital media and more. My
goal is to find the best piece for the space, while keeping
my client’s desires top of mind. For example, I’m working
on a project right now, where everything on the main floor
is sculptural. The last piece I just installed were these wood
sculptures, by Williamson Chong, and they are made up of
carved circles that replicate tree rings. They are really unique
and add warmth to the space.
Painting: Brian Wyers
Where do you go for inspiration?
I can find inspiration almost everywhere. Especially when
there are art fairs in town, they are full of interesting artists.
From there, we exchange contact information and they
keep me up to date on their current and upcoming works.
Essentially though, I do a lot of walking around, visiting
galleries, building relationships and seeing what’s out there.
Can you describe Toronto’s art scene?
Toronto’s art scene is vibrant, full of action and very exciting,
on many different levels. There is a lot of local talent,
however it’s also particularly interesting to bear witness to
artists from other countries, who’ve started working here
and getting representation in local galleries. Overall, there’s
a deep international component in Canada. It’s important
to consider incorporating both Canadian and international
artists into a given project to give it a dynamic feel. It’s nice
to have a piece by an artist who’s on the rise, who no one is
familiar with yet.
What’s your style?
I like everything from abstract to contemporary. One of my
favourite painters right now is Erin Loree, a local Toronto
artist who makes large scale colourful abstract paintings.
They are stunning. I’m also quite fond of photography,
Melvin Sokolsky is a great fashion photographer and
Thaddeus Holownia recently did an architectural series in
Paris which I love.
What is the piece we see behind you in the photo?
This piece is by a local artist—Brian Wyers. The colour and
movement of this piece caught my eye and I fell in love with
it. I had contemplated purchasing it for myself but I didn’t
have the appropriate wall space. This painting demands a big
wall and should be a center piece. I then began working with
a new client and after seeing her dining room, I knew this
piece would be perfect and my client agreed!
art connect · kim@artconnect.ca · 416.662.7338 · www.artconnect.ca
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24

REAL
ESTATE
Whether you are looking to buy or sell—or
want to convince your friends to become your
neighbours—we know Toronto West is a hot
market for buyers and investors alike. Due
to its proximity to the core and diversity of
neighbourhoods, it is ideal for work-life balance.
Here we present some of the leading real
estate agents and brokers that work and
live in the area, who will move mountains to
ensure a great experience and negotiate the
deal while keeping in mind your emotional
and financial considerations.
25

Jacqueline Nimer
Sales representative:
Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd. Brokerage
From owning one of the largest and longest standing
casting agencies in Canada to the exciting realm of real
estate, Jacqueline jumps into every venture with both feet.
Servicing thousands of people along the way has armed
her with the skills to tackle any project.
A deep understanding of real estate has made her one
of the most sought after real estate agents in Toronto’s
West-end market, earning her the 2015 Director’s Circle
Award from her brokerage, Harvey Kalles Real Estate.
With tenacity and a delicate touch, Jacqueline delivers
superior service and goes beyond the call of duty for
every client. Motivated by a challenge, she is fiercely
loyal and is known for helping her clients achieve their
real estate dreams.
What are some of the real estate challenges you’ve
encountered?
Over the last twenty-five years I’ve dealt with my fair share
of professional and personal challenges and navigated
through some tough situations. There are always ups and
downs in real estate—but I am motivated by the prospect
of solving a problem or overcoming a challenge. Some
things that can plague the successful sale of a property
include little or no staging and a poor understanding of
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p h o t o : Wilson Huynh Studio
its value and surrounding neighbourhood. Beyond being
results driven, I work hard to increase the level of real
estate awareness with my clients.
What is your favourite thing about working in real estate?
I’ve discovered that I truly love helping my clients through
what can be a very stressful time. The bottom line is that
I feel individuals are not always properly taken care of
or listened to, so I make a point of doing that with every
client. Simple things like sitting down and getting to know
each other is something that can be taken for granted. We
have so much going on in our lives, but this is something
I prioritize with my clients. It goes a long way to making
sure we’re on the same page and can achieve great results.
How would you describe your negotiation style?
Three words—honest, straightforward and fair. Negotiation
is a normal part of a real estate transaction and respect for
all parties is key. This is an emotional and stressful time
and it’s up to the agents to find a working style that is best
and fosters good relationships.
Do you specialize in a certain type of listing?
I have a variety of clients and listings—young couples
and executives looking for their first home to the empty
26

nester wanting to downsize. Over the years, I’ve worked
with many wonderful people and helped them through
their various life stages. I genuinely like and care about
my clients, and I love to help them—sometimes that can
mean finding a good dentist, swimming coach, piano
teacher or childcare. I like making that kind of connection
with people and cherish those relationships.
How would you describe the real estate market in the
west-end of Toronto?
Despite the naysayers, the market is not only doing well,
sales are increasing. The GTA in general hasn’t slowed
down, and even though we can’t predict the market, I
suspect it will remain this way for a while. Our brokerage
alone had another record breaking year in 2015 with over
$2.48 billion in sales.1
What is your take on 'The Property Sells Itself' myth?
I don’t believe that a property sells itself. In fact, a lot
of work goes into selling a home—even if it’s located
in the hottest neighbourhood in the city. Presentation,
price and knowing who your buyer is are imperative to a
fast and successful sale. Important factors like creating
a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, as well as staging a
home to match the lifestyle of buyers, are just a couple of
things that take some effort but are critical when selling
a home successfully.
What’s your best advice to first time home buyers?
Educate yourself and take your time—this will be one of
the biggest decisions of your life. Make sure you’re ready
before embarking on this task. When that time comes,
find a Realtor that works for you and listens. In turn, take
the time to listen to your Realtor’s advice. Once you’ve
built a strong foundation, be ready to move fast. The
market has a tendency to change quickly.
How is Harvey Kalles different from other leading real
estate brokerage firms?
Harvey Kalles is a boutique firm and epitomizes what I
enjoy most – helping people get to where they want to be.
The level of service Harvey Kalles provides to every client is
exceptional and I’m proud to be a part of that team.
As a mother of three, do you have any advice for women
seeking a work-life balance or wanting to get back into
the workforce?
My situation may be a little unique; there was never
a moment where I fully left the workforce, but I have
changed in the industry I work in to accommodate raising
my family. Organizational and multi-tasking skills, as well
as having a strong foundation of support, always help in
making transitions as smooth as possible. Looking at life
from this perspective also happens to be how I approach
real estate.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
My career in real estate introduces me to new people and
new friendships, and I help those people achieve what
matters most to them. I’ve found my place in life and
I’m lucky to be doing what I love. I look forward to doing
more of it.
How do you marry the needs of a seller versus a buyer?
I think the best way to consistently deliver a great client
experience is by putting a priority on building and
maintaining strong, long-lasting relationships. I have very
happy clients and a great network that help me connect
buyers and sellers when the time is right. But beyond
those fantastic people, I have the Harvey Kalles team
behind me, as well as a curated list of designers, stagers,
painters, inspectors, photographers, videographers,
legal, financial and building professionals who I trust to
do right by my clients whenever I engage or refer them.
It’s this team that helps me provide my clients with a
concierge level of real estate service.
How does working with a buyer differ from someone
looking to sell their home?
It may sound obvious, but I believe my number one
job is to make sure my client is completely satisfied
whether they are buying or selling, so I’m invested
in the relationship beyond just the transaction. But
buyers do have special needs, particularly in a market
like what we have now. I enjoy the process of learning
about the lifestyle of my client, their aspirations and
plans for the future. Buying a home is one of the biggest
purchases most people will make in their lifetime, so
really understanding the financial picture is something
we spend time talking about. Investing in my clients in
this way means we are a strong team with the same vision
and goal, and we’re ready to act with confidence when the
right property comes along.
“Having bought and sold homes with
Jacqueline, she has redefined our real
estate expectations. She is proactive
and so is her team.
Looking back on our experience with her, it was
like we were in the very connected and capable
hands of a real estate concierge.”
J. Cosgrove & C. Uyeyama – The Kingway, Toronto
1 Source: Lonewolf
Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd. Brokerage · 416.417.8836
jnimer@harveykalles.com · www.jacquelinenimer.com
27

Paul Nusca
Sales Representative:
Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p o r t r a i t : Kateryna Photography
The thrill of every sale courses like blood through his
veins and Paul, born and raised in Toronto’s West End,
puts all he’s got into every client he encounters. After
getting a taste of real estate from the family business,
he decided to stay in for the long haul and make it his
career. Nearly fifteen years later, he’s built a results-driven
enterprise and his eyes come alive with the mention of
real estate—his appetite is insatiable.
Why real estate?
Something just clicked, though it was always part of me,
even during my previous work in the world of finance. Being
surrounded by real estate growing up gave me a thirst for the
business. I learned the ins and outs of real estate by osmosis.
Fourteen years later, I still get a buzz at the prospect of
meeting someone new and taking on a listing.
What is real estate to you?
Real estate is people, architecture and mentoring those
around me. I love coming to work everyday, which I don’t
see as work, and I enjoy the flexibility that comes with
this domain. The unpredictability of each day keeps me
on my toes.
What types of listings do you specialize in?
Every listing, whether it’s a sale, purchase or a lease has
equal standing in my books. Actually, one of the things
I enjoy most about real estate is the exhilaration of
possibilities that every potential listing brings.
Do you have any advice for someone buying or
selling a home?
Over the years, I’ve come to realize that each circumstance
has to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. There are so
many factors that go into buying or selling a home with no
clear-cut formula. One of the difficulties of assessing the
selling potential of a home is the uncontrollable nature
of various elements—state of the market and location, for
example. So I like to take the time to speak with each client
and find out what’s working and what’s not and focus on the
controllable variables for a positive outcome.
What sets you apart from other brokers?
I stick by honesty and straightforwardness and say what’s on
my mind, most, if not all of the time. Being candid, without
sugar coating a situation is probably one of my strongest
suits—along with knowing my domain inside and out. I’ve
come to build a credible and loyal reputation on my family
name and I don’t take any listing for granted. I’ve been
characterized as tough but fair, with good instincts and
28

“Our office, located in the heart of the Kingsway, was the first
Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. satellite office in Canada.
Over the next five years, I’d like to continue on this path
towards my ultimate goal, to be the top team in West Toronto.”
strong perception into every situation. Bottom line is that I
treat every listing like it’s the only one I have and I’m overtly
accessible any time of the day for my clients.
How would you describe your personal brand?
If I were to pick words to describe my personal brand, I’d
stay away from gimmicky tag lines and underline sincerity,
trustworthiness, professionalism, style, and simplicity.
What selling methods do you stand by?
It’s not about specific selling methods for me, although I do
have my set of trusted guidelines that I’ve built throughout
my career. I do approach every listing with fresh perspective
and forward thinking because each listing is by nature
different and will sell for different reasons. This can be a very
serious process for buyers, so preparing myself, while having
fun when the mood permits, is a strategy I stand by. After all,
knowledge is power.
Tell us about your team, where you see yourself
in five years?
My team consists of twelve diverse agents, and two
support staff. Everyone on the team is local, which
provides special insight into the area. Our office, located
in the heart of the Kingsway, was the first corporate
satellite office in Canada. Over the next five years, I’d like
to continue on this path towards my ultimate goal, to be
the top team in West Toronto.
Tell us about giving back to the community; do you have
any causes that are close to your heart?
Giving back is not only integrated into our business, but
plays a role in the way we approach our mission as well. We
are heavily involved with the local schools and contribute
our time and efforts to various fundraising events like play
dates and pumpkin drives. We also donate a percentage of
proceeds to the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, which aims
to help women and children escape violence and rebuild
their lives.
How do you relax after a long busy day?
Real estate is my life, so for me, it never shuts down
completely. But I love spending time with my amazing
wife and three kids; I do enjoy golfing in the summers and
socializing with friends. Even then, I find work itself relaxing
and I love to interact with people.
What is your favourite area in Toronto’s West End?
Along Bloor and Kingsway West. It’s a vibrant area, with
great restaurants and shopping. There’s always something
going on. I also love the Junction and Roncesvalles.
What is your philosophy?
Anyone can get started in real estate, but staying in for the
long run takes work, energy and effort. I always keep in mind
that everyday is a new day, and a chance to face everything
with a sense of urgency. This philosophy has helped me
succeed and overcome many challenges.
Royal Lepage Real Estate Services Ltd. · 416.618.8326 · paul@paulnusca.com · www.paulnusca.com
29

Lizanne Dobson
Representative:
Keller Williams
Neighbourhood Realty
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p o r t r a i t : Kateryna Photography
Life is a journey and sometimes the best things come when
you least expect them. This was the case for Lizanne, when
one of life’s “transitions” led her to a career in real estate. She
found that every moment, experience and encounter, up to
that point, prepared her to rise to the many challenges that
this industry presented.
Lizanne planted her feet firmly into the world of real estate
in 2001 and just 3 years ago she made the move to Keller
Williams Neighbourhood Realty. An innate fascination with
architecture & design, a love for getting to know others,
along with success in renovating and selling her own houses
has helped Lizanne create a flourishing career. Her strong
negotiating skills and natural sense of organization have
paved the way for juggling numerous listings at once, while
never loosing sight of the individual needs of each client.
Lizanne brings her personalized signature service, market
knowledge and years of experience to the serious business of
buying and selling a home in Toronto.
What does it take to be a successful real estate agent?
Above all, good listening skills are key to being a great
realtor. My goal is not only to fulfill my clients’ objectives,
but to exceed their expectations, so that they enthusiastically
refer me to their friends and family. I can’t do that unless
I have a profound understanding of what they really want
out of their move. Another quality that leads to success is
flexibility and open mindedness. Real estate is a fast paced
industry—every transaction is different and things don’t
usually go exactly according to plan, so being able to assess
a situation, and adjust accordingly is critical to success.
Then of course, you need strong market knowledge, great
negotiating & marketing skills as well as an ability to really
connect with people.
How would you describe your clientele?
Every client and transaction is different, but the majority of
my clients are professionals buying houses. I work mostly in
the west end, downtown and occasionally in North Toronto.
My clients are either buying their first home, trading up for
more space or downsizing. As a result of my older clientele
looking to crystalize some equity and have more freedom, I
have recently been selling more condos. Another large part
of my business is relocating corporate executives to Toronto,
and working with bankers engaged as estate trustees to sell
the real estate component of their client’s estates.
30

What sets you apart from other agents?
My network and my passion for helping my clients get the
best deal with the least amount of stress! Stress reduction
is primarily a result of good communication and taking
care of the little details that make a transaction and a move
as smooth as possible. For example, where possible, I like
to get neighbours to sign a welcome card for my buyers to
introduce them to their neighbourhood and make them feel
at home.
I feel that one of my strongest differentiating factors is my
network of international agents. As I mentioned I do a lot of
relocation business, and during the 2008 US market crash, I
helped many clients invest in the United States. One of the
reasons I joined Keller Williams was to continue to build my
network of agents.
At KW I earned my Global Property Specialist designation,
and I am also really excited by Keller Williams global
expansion and the opportunity I get to meet realtors from
all over the world. Real estate is a local business but I find a
global perspective very helpful! I am able to work with my
clients in Toronto as well as help them if they want to buy
a second home in the sun or relocate to the US, abroad, or
elsewhere in Canada.
What do you think is the biggest barrier to success in
today’s real estate industry? How have you overcome it?
One of the hurdles realtors face today is overcoming the
myth that the market is so strong that the “property will sell
itself”. In reality, a great deal of work goes into ensuring that
the client receives maximum exposure for their property, so
that they get the best possible price with the least amount of
stress. I have a consistent track record of ensuring that for
my clients. It is so much more than just adding a sign to the
lawn and placing the property on the Multiple Listing Service
(MLS). A flurry of activity goes on behind the scenes. I create
a unique marketing campaign for each listing that includes
networking, internet & print exposure, social media and
preparing the house to be competitive.
How would you describe the current market?
In one word—unique! We have had such a long run in our
real estate market that, short of a 6 month dip in 2008, our
prices have continued to climb for my whole career. Most
real estate cycles are about 5-7 years, but we are far past
that and 2015 has been the best year since 2007. Given the
continued demand for real estate in Toronto I don’t see a
large correction unless the interest rates increase rapidly or
there is an unforeseen world event that affects consumer
confidence. Although, given the prices, I have to wonder
about affordability. When I talk to realtors in US they find
our prices unbelievable. Toronto has been the city with most
cranes in America and all the condo units continue to be
absorbed each year, and I don’t foresee a decline in demand
for 2016.
“A flurry of activity goes on
behind the scenes. I create a
unique marketing campaign
for each listing that includes
networking, internet & print
exposure, social media and
preparing the house to be
competitive.”
You made a move and joined Keller Williams
Neighbourhood Realty, how is it different from other
leading real estate brokerage firms?
How do I count the ways? Since I joined Keller Williams, it
has become the largest brokerage in North America by agent
count and was named by Training Magazine, the #1 training
organization across all industries. I made my decision to
move to KW for several reasons, primarily because of their
business models and training programs.
I am always looking to grow my business and improve my
service standards and through KW University & their focused
conferences, I have learned more in the last 3 years than I
learned in the preceding 10! I wanted to specialize further
in international real estate and marketing high end luxury
properties to compliment my existing business and through
the Global Property Specialist designation and the Luxury
designation I’ve been able to put best practices in place that
benefit my clients enormously.
Most importantly though, I love the culture, all the agents
are cooperative and it is an open, supportive learning
environment and that makes it a fun place to work…. And
given that real estate can be a 24/7 career … fun is important!
Keller Williams Neighbourhood Realty · 2968 Dundas St W.
416.236.1392 · ld@lizannedobson.com · www.lizannedobson.com
31

Connie Farmer & Linda Tickins
Sutton Old Mill Realty, Inc.
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p h o t o : Wilson Huynh Studio
Linda has over 30 years of success selling Toronto’s West end
and has built herself into one of the most prominent agents
in the area. Prior to her life as a real estate broker, she worked
as a flight attendant for Wardair Canada. Even today Wardair
remains a textbook example of superior customer service,
just as Linda remains committed to providing superior
customer service to her clients and her community.
Four years ago, her daughter Connie joined the ranks of the
real estate business. They complement one another and
really enjoy working together. Their business is built on a
solid reputation; Connie has learned that knowledge and
service are the keys to Linda’s success.
Linda, you are a leading marketer for home ownership
in the West end of Toronto, what makes this
neighborhood stand out?
I have spent the last 35 years promoting home ownership in
this city, and I have truly loved every minute of it. Toronto’s
West end has so many things going for it—it’s a short drive or
subway ride to downtown, home to fantastic schools & some
of the city’s best golf, close to the airports & major highways,
and there is a great sense of community
This is a community where traditions provide comfort to
homeowners and businesses alike—many who, like me, have
stayed for years. Speaking of which, I have recently opened
a new office at Bloor & Grenview above Starbucks, which we
are very excited about!
How would you describe your clientele?
We are lucky to have a wide variety of clientele. I’ve grown
into more luxury real estate as I’ve become an established
name in the area, but especially since Connie has gotten into
the business with me, we work with a lot of young families,
first-time buyers, investors, etc.
The wonderful thing about this career is that buying or
selling a home is an emotional process, and we get to share
in the excitement as well as offer support during harder
moves. Downsizers are a large part of the market today, with
baby boomers selling their family homes. This can be a
highly emotional time, and requires a great deal of care.
I love my clients. I have the best clients, many of whom have
become great friends.
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“Toronto’s West end has so many things going for it—it’s a
short drive or subway ride to downtown, home to fantastic
schools & some of the city’s best golf, close to the airports &
major highways, and there is a great sense of community.”
Connie, what role is the young generation playing in
today’s real estate market?
We all know how competitive the Toronto market is, so
young buyers are having to be a bit more creative. They are
priced out of many areas so they buy in “up and coming”
neighbourhoods. Over time, as trendy restaurants and shops
pop up and the area becomes very popular, other young
buyers are now priced out and are forced to gentrify a new
part of the city. It’s fun to follow Toronto neighbourhoods.
Young buyers are also key to the successful condo market.
The number of young professionals and young families
living in condos is significantly increasing. We’re used
to living in smaller spaces, and happy to sacrifice size for
location and lifestyle.
Linda, what is your working relationship like with your
daughter?
I think one of the most important points is that I can be
myself with her, which lends to the ease of getting things
done. This is a fast moving business. Connie is very positive
and genuine, so it’s easy to transition her into working with
my clients. They enjoy her company and they trust that she
will do her best for them. She has many calming qualities,
organizational skills and marketing skills—it was a perfect
fit. She always seems to have the right words, and has a great
real estate sense, so she is good at sales in a natural way.
Connie, what prompted you to follow in your mother’s
footsteps?
It was an obvious choice. The timing was perfect, as my mom
had taken her business to a new level while I was away at
university. Real estate suits my personality- I’m ambitious
and you get out of it what you put in. Linda has spent the last
35 years building up a fantastic reputation and loyal client
base. She is a true professional and I’m very fortunate to get
to learn under her.
I admire that she has everyone’s best interests at heart. She
has great problem solving skills, and uses those to get the
best results for her clients. Work is almost always on her
mind; she loves thinking of how to get a deal put together.
It’s great that we can bounce ideas off of each other.
Connie, what do you bring to the real estate table?
A strong work ethic and competitive spirit. I grew up an
elite athlete, ski racing on the Ontario team and then
earning a division 1 golf scholarship. My scholarship gave
me the opportunity to earn a degree in journalism and
communications while traveling the U.S. playing golf. I have
always been very disciplined, and want to be the best at what
I do. The same goes for real estate, I believe in providing the
best service possible.
Linda, Connie, what is your take on the current market?
Toronto is one of the fastest growing cities in the world, and
is gaining more and more international presence.
The market is always good, the popular neighbourhoods are
very competitive. Because of this, it isn’t as seasonal as it was
in the past. Buyers are always on the lookout for the right
property. It is definitely a seller’s market, but it’s an exciting
time for buyers. Toronto is a great city to invest in.
Linda, Connie, how important is online marketing in
today’s real estate business? What other steps do you
recommend for selling a home?
Staging and photography are key. With so many buyers
starting their search from the comfort of their couch, your
property has to look amazing online in order to stand out. I
have worked hard to put together a really top quality team of
experts to prepare a property for sale; they are very talented.
This is clear when you see my property photos.
I also spend a lot of time writing catchy property
descriptions. I feel it’s an important part of my job to
really hook the curiosity & interest of potential buyers.
Once all of this is ready to go, Connie helps with property
websites, social media target marketing, search engine
optimization, etc.
Linda, what role do you play in giving back to the
community?
I’m sure everyone gives back where they can. I’m so grateful
for the success I’ve had, and giving back to the community is
one way to show my appreciation. There are so many people
in need, but to name a few causes close to my heart: Sick
Kids Hospital, homeless organizations, health research and
local charities. I do have to say kids are a real soft spot for
me. I’m in a position to help others, and really try to make
a difference where I can. Just being kind to people is an
everyday way of making the community a better place.
Connie, where do you see yourself in five years?
The experience I’ve had over the last four years has given
me a lot of confidence. We have come across pretty much
any scenario you can imagine, so again I’m very lucky to
be able to learn this quickly. I imagine that after another 5
years working with Linda, I will feel like that much more of a
professional.
In this business, things change so fast, you always have to
be able to adapt and more importantly foresee the changes.
One thing I’ve learned from seeing my mom in the business
all these years is that good service will always be the most
important to people.
Sutton Old Mill Realty, Inc. · 416.574.8822
tickins@gmail.com · www.lindatickins.com
33

Robert Citrullo
Sales Representative
RE/MAX Professionals Inc.
i n t e r v i e w : Kara Kuryllowicz
p h o t o : Wilson Huynh Studio
A serial entrepreneur and natural extrovert, Rob has
grown up in the real estate business. At 12 and into
his teens, he worked for his grandfather’s real estate
operation, tackling demolition and acquiring everything
from carpentry to painting and tiling skills. As a
university student and sales rep with London Property
Corp., he leveraged his innate social skills and ultimately
social media, specifically Facebook, to get signed leases
on the 220 units four to six months before the next term
started. He then tapped into his love of electronic dance
music to create yet another business opportunity booking
concerts, festivals and events in secondary markets while
working fulltime for Toronto’s biggest entertainment
conglomerate Ink Entertainment.
Yet as he looked to a future that would one day include
a family, where he works more regular hours, Rob
decided it was time to focus on his one true love, real
estate. A competitive hockey, football volleyball, and
baseball player through high school, Rob sees the value
in outdoing himself and everyone around him. In his
first year with RE/MAX, Canada’s biggest broker with the
greatest reach, he earned the Rookie of the Year Award as
well as a place in the company’s 100% Club.
Can you tell me about your grandfather and how he
inspired you?
When people told my grandfather, who came to Canada
from Italy as a five-year-old orphan, that he was crazy to
buy a plot of land for development in Etobicoke, he did it
anyway. His faith in his own intuition led to his position
as the owner and head of Gilindo Marcocchio ltd. He’s
living proof that when you’re completely and utterly
obsessed with something, you can master it. Creativity
and hard work, will make it possible to build something
from nothing. Until he died at 101 years of age, his mind
was always going because he lived to come up with new
ideas. “Let’s renovate this, Let’s build that”. That inspires
and drives me.
What have you learned from your early real estate and
entertainment industry experiences?
Pitching rental units to university and college students
and introducing new artists to secondary markets
was a real passion and I quickly saw that face-to-face
connections, particularly with key influencers, can create
hype, produce buzz and drive interest. Even with today’s
technology, it’s my real-life interactions that support my
success on the various social media platforms.
34

Our family has its roots in real estate development with
a preponderance of chartered accountants, so I know
how to negotiate a deal that makes solid financial sense.
Speaking of negotiation, I was constantly working
through scenarios that gave the artists and their agencies,
for example, William Morris Entertainment, one of the
biggest names in Hollywood, what they needed while
ensuring I’d achieve my margins.
Why is it so important to get out in your community?
For most people, especially with real-estate prices in
Toronto today, their home is their primary investment.
I need to provide the facts on why a particular
neighbourhood is a good investment, but I also need to
convey the heart and soul of a community based on my
personal experience.
“I need to provide the facts on why a particular neighbourhood
is a good investment, but I also need to convey the heart and
soul of a community based on my personal experience.”
I also learned that I can trust my gut when it comes to
recognizing talent that will resonate with audiences.
Bidding wars are as common in the entertainment
industry as they are in Toronto’s real estate market. When
I’d come across a hot artist, there was always someone
that wanted to work with them just as much as I did.
It confirmed that if you want the deal to go through,
everyone has to get something out of it. My ability to
watch people and figure out how much they really wanted
something really served me well.
Isn’t a bidding war all about winning regardless
of the industry?
Absolutely not. In entertainment, I may get the deal but
if I overpaid or miscalculated interest in that artist, I may
break even or lose money. When bidding on a house or
condo, I need to know how much my client really wants
that home. I focus on the non-verbal cues, because what
people actually say isn’t necessarily what they truly feel.
Over the years, I’ve honed my ability to read people. If they
adore that specific house, it’s worth it to them to pay more
by however much provided they can afford it.
Can you share a once-in-a-lifetime moment from your
time working with breaking artists such as Hardwell
and Avicii as well as the now mainstream, Torontobased
R&B artist The Weeknd?
Absolutely, but let’s make it two moments! Back in
October 2011, I’d booked The Weeknd (aka Abel Tesfaye)
into the Guelph Concert Theatre and pre-show he was
at my condo warming up with Turkey Bourbon because
Aretha Franklin had shared that tip with him. The New
York Times covered that show and the reviews were
overwhelmingly positive.
I’m a real foodie—I adore food! So I regularly post to
Instagram and Twitter about great meals and restaurants.
People are always asking me for recommendations and
much like football, which is one of my biggest passions;
food gives us one more topic to chat about.
Why is a realtor’s network so important?
Our network starts with our families and friends and
extends beyond that to the people we meet through
everything from sports to school and work.
The larger our immediate network, the greater our power
to connect because every person knows hundreds of
people and those numbers increase exponentially when
you tap into social media.
When you have access to my network, whether you’re
buying or selling a home, you can access my resources
whether you need an accountant, a lawyer or a great
restaurant where you’ll celebrate the closing.
Does networking come naturally to you?
Absolutely—it’s in my DNA! It’s as natural to me as
breathing. Wherever, I am—I strike up conversations
because I’m genuinely interested in who people are, what
they’re doing and why.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Right now, I love working on my own but I’d be crazy
not to take advantage of growing up with family and
friends who’ve been building Toronto going back four
generations. I want to leverage the knowledge and
perspective I picked up around the dining room table and
on cottage weekends to grow my business and develop my
own team with the guidance and help of my broker Leah
Ambler.
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS INC, Brokerage · 647-282-1894 · remaxrobc@gmail.com · www.revealedrealestate.com
35

Phil Beecher
Beecher & Associates Real Estate
Right At Home Realty Inc., Brokerage
i n t e r v i e w : David Menzies
p h o t o : Wilson Huynh Studio
Phil was making a good living in the mergers and
acquisitions business but his heart just wasn’t in it. The
former competitive swimmer and water polo player found
the profession mundane, and it seemed like a cruel fate
that he was now confined to a cubicle on a daily basis.
Itching for a career change where he could make the most
of his passion for people and building relationships, he
jumped on the Toronto real estate market wagon.
Phil went on to successfully form an experienced team
of agents working under the Beecher & Associates Real
Estate banner.
They say information is power. So how do you keep
up to date regarding the ever-evolving Toronto real
estate market?
Every morning and every night, I check the market. I also
network with people who are in my circle of influence—
people who know things that aren’t necessarily public
knowledge. I also take continuing education courses. I try to
keep my finger on the pulse. The thing is, I love doing this—I
don’t even feel like I’m working. Even when I’m on vacation
I’m still involved.
Can you tell us about your team?
We have more than 45 years’ combined experience in the
Toronto real estate market. They are people I trust and people
I’ve known for a very long time. We have the same mindset,
which is that as an agent, your only employer is your client.
An agent doesn’t answer to anyone but the client... and, of
course, the regulating body!
Can you tell us about your client base? Some are
famous, correct?
Well, I won’t name drop because it’s confidential. But
over the years there have been rock stars, movie stars,
professional athletes—Blue Jays, NHL players, and so
on. And my referrals come by word of mouth. As an
agent, you put in all the time and energy in the first five
years then it gets better thanks to those valuable word of
mouth endorsements.
There’s certainly no shortage of real estate agents in
Toronto. What attributes do you bring to the table that
would make a buyer or a seller choose you?
I come from a very disciplined background. I’ve always
looked at the bigger picture to realize my goals. My parents
taught me to have a good work ethic and always put people
first. People come to you because of the way you make them
feel. If the client feels you are working for them, you have
36

“The naysayers keep saying there’s going to be a “correction”
but I haven’t seen that happen in all the years I’ve been in the
business. Even in the dead of winter we still have bidding wars.”
knowledge and you truly care about them, then you are a
success. And it doesn’t matter who the client is to me—I
treat everyone the same. It does not make a difference if it’s
someone rich and famous or a family struggling to make
ends meet—I treat them all the same.
What is your favourite area in Toronto’s west end and why?
I really like the Humber River valley. There’s green space for
walking dogs and my house is right on the Humber ravine.
I look back there and I feel like I’m in a cottage. And you
don’t get any of the toxins or pollution—the green belt kind
of buffers it. I like Bloor West and Roncesvalles too, and the
Kingsway area is great—you have the subway line right there,
which is pretty convenient.
Toronto real estate continues to boom. But some fear there
is a “Manhattan-ization” of the real estate market occurring,
in which property is becoming unaffordable for averageincome
homebuyers. Are there still opportunities for middle
class homebuyers?
There are still opportunities, although unfortunately it’s
getting tighter and tighter. There’s less land and more people,
just like New York. One of the things keeping it affordable is
low interest rates. It’s hard even for a double-income family
in Toronto to live a really comfortable lifestyle because
prices are so high. But that’s just the way the market is, and I
don’t think it will go down.
On the flipside, because the market shows no signs of
going down, one would imagine purchasing Toronto real
estate is pretty much a rock solid investment regardless
of entry cost. What are your thoughts?
I definitely think it’s a rock solid investment. As the saying
goes, “They’re not making any more land” and people are
being born every day. And having a place to live is a necessity
of life. In fact, I’d say real estate in Toronto is pretty much
bulletproof at this point.
Some people have the mindset that Toronto real estate
is so hot these days that a house can “sell itself”,
meaning an agent isn’t really needed. How would you
respond to that?
Well, you can pull out your own tooth, too—so who needs
a dentist? And you can do your own accounting, but maybe
you won’t be able to do it correctly... which you might find
out the hard way when you get audited. I would suggest that
someone should hire an agent that specializes in a certain
area—someone who knows every neighbourhood, every
street. I would say that’s important. If you sell your house
yourself, maybe you’ll get $2 million. But if an agent knows
of a purchaser from overseas that you don’t know about,
maybe your house could’ve fetched $2.5 million. Yes, you’ll
pay a commission but you’re going to be getting a lot more
in terms of the selling price. Over the years, I have literally
amassed hundreds of people from all over the world asking
for a certain product. Sometimes there’s no inventory. But
when a suitable house does come along, I have a file of
potential buyers.
Do you have a motto to live by?
Yes: “Do the right thing.” Maybe that means putting in more
work to close a deal or maybe a certain deal is going to be
more tiring to pull off. But when I do put in that extra effort
for my clients, I can sleep better at night. I mean, I’d rather
not be in real estate if I couldn’t do it properly.
What motivates you?
I like seeing people understand the whole real estate market
after I’ve talked them through it. What’s gratifying is when I
hear people say to me, “I was nervous before getting into the
market, but now I get it—let’s get another house.” Real estate
can be like an addiction—once you understand how it works,
you want more and more. And I love to see a couple finally
settle into their house. Once the sale closes, I like to drop off
a gift and see how they are doing.
If you were to do some crystal ball gazing, what lays
ahead for the future of Toronto real estate?
I think we are fairly safe here in terms of houses going up
in value. There are so many factors that affect real estate,
but I don’t think interest rates are going up anytime soon
and even if they do go up it will be very little and very
gradual. A lot of people need to work and live in Toronto,
so there’s a demand, which makes Toronto real estate a safe
investment. The naysayers keep saying there’s going to be a
“correction” but I haven’t seen that happen in all the years
I’ve been in the business. Even in the dead of winter we still
have bidding wars.
Speaking of bidding wars, what’s your mindset when a
bidding war breaks out?
Every situation and every property and every buyer is
different. There are always different dynamics. Once you
feel out your playing ground, you speak with your buyer and
consult with them. And sometimes it is better to walk away
rather than overpay. There will always be another property!
Beecher & Associates Real Estate · Right At Home Realty Inc., Brokerage
416.400.9117 · phil@beecherrealestate.ca · www.beecherrealestate.ca
37

Antonio Piazza & Voula Gekas
Sales Representatives:
Open Concept Team, Century 21 Atria Inc. Brokerage
i n t e r v i e w : Kara Kuryllowicz
p o r t r a i t : Wilson Huynh Studio
Antonio and Voula understand the residential and
commercial real estate markets, but as importantly, they
understand people. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or
selling the family home to upsize or downsize and return
to the downtown core, it’s an incredibly exciting time. At
this stage of their lives, these business partners have gone
through most of the same journeys as their clients. They
know what it’s like to start out as a single first time home
buyer to a young couple looking to the future, to growing a
family and face the life, career and real estate changes that
come with new relationships.
This duo firmly believes that two heads will always be
better than one because each individual contributes a
unique set of skills and experiences to the partnership and
its clients. As importantly, there is always an extra set of
eyes available with a fresh perspective. As a male/female
real estate duo that shares core values, Voula and Antonio
recognize that clients are happy to have the opportunity
to work with whichever partner they feel suits them best
because it benefits everyone involved.
Antonio and Voula are all about educating, preparing and
informing clients and have the research to back up their facts,
but they also know how to deal with the intangibles. People
tend to fall for a home, or not, the first time they see it. The
Open Concept team will help you get beyond the emotion
to the practical considerations that ultimately determine
whether that home will be yours. Together, they bring their
respective experience and perspective to bear the benefit to
every client and each transaction.
In a hyper competitive market, how do you
win new customers?
Voula: We get back to basics! We ask a lot of questions to
help us identify our clients’ real wants and needs. We listen
and really hear what they’re telling us and take detailed
notes, which clients appreciate. They let us know that our
commitment to listening and focusing on what they need
coupled with what we can deliver while being realistic and
honest versus what we think they need is one of the main
reasons they want to work with us.
Antonio: We ask what’s driving the sale or purchase and
set realistic expectations which are vital in a market with
little supply and high demand. Whether you’re buying or
selling, we have to be honest about what your budget will
38

get you and the true market versus your perceived value
of any improvements you’ve made to your home. Also, we
identify ourselves as strong marketers and understand the
importance of utilizing tools to help build exposure through
progressive marketing initiatives. As a basis, we produce
professional videos and photography for each home, market
through social media, offering up a unique ability to stage
and provide improvement ideas that will maximize the
dollars received from your home. Focusing on the details
that appeal to all senses, understanding that marketing starts
from the initial visit up to final closing.
What are your key differentiators?
Voula: Real Estate can be a highly stressful and emotional
process; however, it can be just as exciting and fun as well.
We pride ourselves in making the real estate process a good
experience for our clients, and we do this by making sure
that we have done our research, are prepared and have a
sound strategy. Being in the customer service industry
from a young age, and working in the financial services
for a number of years, I understand how important it is
to make sure clients are kept up to date, responded to in a
timely manner and make sure their best interests are kept
in mind during the entire process and negotiations. I have
also sold condos on a development site, so I have a good
understanding of resale and pre-construction real estate.
Antonio: I’ve been in sales for as far as I can remember,
I also built my own home which allows me to look at the
construction and weigh in on the building inspectors’
findings. My sales executive career in marketing and
advertising helps me leverage our online presence and social
media to ensure Voula and I tap into our respective networks
and beyond. The more eyes we get on each listing the better
for everyone.
What are the biggest challenges in today’s real
estate market?
Voula: There are so many agents vying for customers that
we’re competing with discount brokers. Consumers need
to know that as a result of that lower commission rate, the
broker is likely focused on the quickest possible sale, which
benefits the broker far more than the seller. You will get what
you pay for.
Antonio: Given the competitive landscape surrounding
the number of agents in the GTA, we are finding that there
is more of an emphasis on a “quick deal” vs the “right deal.”
We’ve been told that agents aren’t always completing their
due diligence and it’s exposed the clients. We believe in
earning our client’s trust and working to ensure the overall
experience is positive, talking with other professionals that
we work with in order to protect our clients.
Voula: There’s an abundance of information out there, which
has empowered Buyers and Sellers in helping to identify
their needs and wants, which is great, however, given the
current Real Estate Environment, the difference between
winning and losing is being prepared.
Antonio: Being prepared means you have the financing
in place and your legal team standing by. It may also
require dropping and waiving certain conditions such
as a home inspection or flexibility around closing dates.
These are things we would discuss long before getting into
negotiations in order to ensure a better chance of winning
and also to give our clients the confidence they need to take
the next steps.
Do you work mainly in Etobicoke?
Antonio: That is certainly our focus but we’ve found
that clients based in Etobicoke may have an interest in
towns such as Milton, where I grew up, and in Oakville,
Mississauga, East York, and Durham. The bulk of our
transactions are residential, however our residential
clients also want investment and commercial properties
and may be interested in developing a piece of land
outside the city. We’re here to help and we both recognize
the value of deep research.
Voula: That is one of our key advantages—we never make
assumptions and we do what it takes to stay current. Towns,
regions and markets are constantly evolving as are the rules
and regulations and we often find we’re more up to date on
what’s happening than the local administrators and realtors.
What’s your perspective on foreign investment in
Toronto real estate?
Antonio: It brings cash into Canada, drives economic growth
and it’s a vote of confidence in our city and our country.
Voula: Canada is seen as a safe haven for professionals,
who initially rent, but often with a view to eventually
immigrating and living in Toronto themselves.
As experienced real estate professionals—what’s next for
Toronto and specifically Etobicoke?
Voula: Given the current economy and interest rates, prices
will continue to climb in Toronto and demand will further
increase as downsizers and millennials move into the
city to take advantage of the arts and culture as well as the
proximity to jobs since not everyone is willing to sit on the
highway and battle commuter congestion.
Antonio: In South Etobicoke, Long Branch and Mimico are
the real jewels with a terrific mix of old and newer homes,
all of which are currently a little undervalued compared
to other areas. There are town homes and condos under
construction as well as some truly creative development;
for example, a decommissioned school is being converted
into a beautiful modern home. I have friends in the
hospitality and entertainment business and they’re really
focused on the untapped opportunities for new bars and
restaurants in this pocket. In Mimico and Long Branch,
you can raise a family in a home you own and walk a few
blocks to a great local restaurant.
Open Concept Team, Century 21 Atria Inc. Brokerage · www.openconceptteam.com
antonio.piazza@century21.ca · 647.465.2340 | Voula.gekas@century21.ca · 416.837.3004
39

ought to you by The Humberview Group
Writers:
Aviva Vetter
Kara Kuryllowicz
Aamer Merchant
Emily Atkins
Photos:
Courtesy Humberview Group
Wilson Hyunh Studio
40

With a car dealership on every corner, Etobicoke is more than
well-served when it comes to the auto industry. When we first set out
to develop this section, our vision was to feature the top five leading
dealerships, their latest models and the people behind them.
That all changed ten minutes into our first meeting with the
Humberview Group—they were the perfect match. This Etobicoke-based
organization has its roots here, is highly involved in the community
and they literally have it all: domestic or import, car or truck, buy or
lease, state-of-the-art showrooms, parts & service centres and a rich
variety of brands.
In the following pages we’ll introduce you to some of the driven people who
are part of this constantly adapting organisation, who are always keeping
their eyes on the road ahead while remembering the values of the past:
John Esplen, President of Humberview Group; Jim Leckie, General
Manager of Humberview VW; Andrew Lennox, General Manager of
Humberview Chevrolet Buick GMC & Motorsports Brands.
41

“Take care of your
customers and your
customers will take
care of you.”
Stewart Esplen
42

The average citizen’s relationship with a car dealership
is one of a simple transaction. The Humberview Group
ensures that it is one of a long-term relationship, with
their broad range of services, events, and giving
back to the community.
With a warm, people-first approach to meeting
their customer’s needs, they have thrived and
now count over a thousand employees at 27
franchised locations.
This means the Humberview Group has
truly been part of the life of countless
Torontonians, especially as the
company’s history spans back 45 years.
43

John Esplen
President
The Humberview Group
How did the Humberview Group begin?
My father, Stewart, grew up in Etobicoke, he was a car guy
and his dream was to build something that served the
community. With his outlook on life and business aligned,
his key values included building relationships through a
great team of people. These values continue to be part of the
fundamentals of the Humberview Group today.
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
Ever since he was young, John knew that he wanted to run
a car dealership. Straight out of school, he began work at
his father’s company Humberview Chevrolet Oldsmobile
dealership. Just eight years later with a variety of positions
under his belt, John took over the daily operations as General
Manager. Over the years, he also gained other operational
elements, all while forming partnerships and growing the
business through the acquisition of other dealerships.
Humberview as we know it today, was beginning to take
shape. At this point, the dealership had already come to
enjoy many an accolade, along with the title of being one of
Canada’s most successful dealerships and most recently, the
Canadian AutoWorld Dealership Employer of Choice Award
for 2015. With continued growth and expansion to this day,
a robust approach to customer service underscores the
strength of their business.
Echoing his family values, John has dedicated his career,
alongside his brother Scott’s, to bringing the Humberview
Group to the next level by building loyalty among team
members and customers alike. Immersed in the company
throughout his life, John experienced every facet of the car
dealership business while striving to build a relationship
with each team member and customer he encountered. With
every step forward, the Humberview Group sets its roots
deeper into the community, through charitable endeavors,
trustworthy customer service and a solid team.
He began his enterprise with the launch of his first
dealership in 1962. An entrepreneur at heart, he envisioned
taking advantage of every opportunity to build a business
to the best of his abilities. From a young age he made his
way through every facet of the car industry making a mental
note of what worked versus what didn’t, determined to get
to the moment where he would put his ideas to the test. All
these years later, the business has flourished into twenty
franchises, with finance affiliations along with leasing and
truck operations.
Was getting involved in the family business a natural fit?
In short, yes. From a young age I was involved in the
company my father founded. Along with my interest in
cars, I was equally fascinated with the business model he
devised – the people engaging people factor spoke to me.
My immersion began early on with learning the ropes while
moving through the various departments to become familiar
with all the divisions of the business. In this industry, like
many others, everything is interconnected and one doesn’t
function properly without the other. This is where having a
great team along with clear internal communication towards
a common goal, can make all the difference in the world.
What is most valuable quality you learned from your dad?
I acquired two very important traits from my father – how
to treat people along with his moral compass. Succeeding in
business goes hand in hand with how you treat others, while
a strong moral compass will help you make the decisions
that will best get you where you want to be.
44

What is Humberview’s mission?
We pride ourselves on solid customer service. In fact, our
philosophy is simple, “Take care of your customers and
your customers will take care of you.” Coined by my father,
these unassuming words have formed the basis of how the
Humberview Group functions. Every day we try hard to serve
our customers better, by listening and providing the best
service possible. In fact, our mission statement highlights
this very element, “Serving customers better each and
every day”. The strongest part of this equation is creating a
collaborative team with positive energy, who also share the
same passion.
How is Etobicoke different from other parts of Toronto?
What stands out about Etobicoke is its sense of community.
It’s a close-knit part of the city where Humberview planted
its roots and grew from there.
Tell me about your philanthropic endeavors
Giving back to the surrounding community is a big part
of our focus. At every corner, we seek to contribute to the
surrounding neighborhood in whichever way we can.
Some of the initiatives we are the most proud of include
raising funds for the United Way, Mothers Against Drunk
Drivers, the Dorothy Ley Hospice Bed Race and The Sears
Great Canadian Run. Another personal passion of mine is
our cycling event to benefit the Etobicoke General Hospital.
My commitment to this organization extends to my active
seat on the board of directors of the William Osler Health
Foundation, which represents three local hospitals in west
Toronto, including the Etobicoke General Hospital. We’ve
also sponsored local hockey, baseball, and tee-ball teams
through our Good Sports Initiative.
Where do you see the Humberview Group in five or
ten years?
Simple, continuing down the same successful path of
growing our current operations to their fullest potential,
while always on the lookout for new opportunities. In
addition, we’ll endeavour to perfect Humberview as the very
best place for people to work, while ultimately providing
award winning customer service on every visit as well as
interaction.
What motivates you in life?
I would have to say, serving people is what makes me tick. I
put a great deal of effort into making sure every person who
crosses our threshold has a good experience, which I believe
starts with a well-oiled team.
Do you have a message for the next generation?
No matter what you decide to do, be the best at it, and always
strive to have fun in life.
45

Jim Leckie
General Manager
Humberview Volkswagen
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p o r t r a i t : Wilson Huynh Studio
An innate love for cars and speed led Jim Leckie to
where he is today, at the top of his game as the General
Manager of Humberview’s Volkswagen dealership.
From a young age the desire to work abroad was always
appealing to him. Prior to Humberview, his career in
the car industry brought him to all four corners of the
globe. He began in Europe, with Audi, jumped on an
opportunity in China, for Porsche, and then made his
way to Canada.
Today, at Humberview, he is in a great position to
lead a well-rounded team and bring his international
expertise to the forefront of Canada’s car industry.
Leading a team of passionate car lovers, who, as a
company, share the values of respect, integrity, honesty,
transparency and teamwork, are just a few of the things,
which bring him to work everyday.
What services do you offer at Humberview VW?
We specialize in bringing new and pre-owned
Volkswagens to the Toronto market, as well we deliver
exceptional service and specialize in the service and parts
business, maintaining our loyal customers’ Volkswagens.
We have over one hundred high performance models, and
we pride ourselves on making sure that our customers
enjoy the best service possible from beginning to end. We
value each relationship, strive to build loyalty and find a
long-term partnership with each customer which follows
our company moto of ‘Serving Our Customers Better Each
And Every Day’.
What drives you?
I love what I do and I love people—that’s my natural drive.
Getting up every morning to accomplish what I’ve set out to
do gives me great personal satisfaction. I enjoy drawing on
the abundance of international experience I’ve accumulated
with the goal of bringing people to success. I also believe
passing on knowledge is an important element of one’s
career. Personally, I like to be in the lead and striving to get
our company there is also what keeps me going.
What makes a car dealership successful?
Humberview invests in its people through various
development and social programs. Recognition is also high
on the success list. When people work together, dedicated to
reaching the same goals, the end result of people enjoying
what they do is high-performance, productivity and success.
Do you have a specific clientele?
It really is case by case. Most people have an emotional
connection to the car they decide to purchase. So clientele
46

2017 Golf Alltrack, available in the second half of 2016
criteria is dependent on the brand of car. An individual will
also buy into the history of the car company, thereby feeling
a closer association to the product. Aside from the common
reasons for buying a car—needing to get from one place to
another, gas consumption, price—people tend to buy our
cars because they are proud of the heritage of the company.
What sets you apart from other dealerships?
Our company values are central to our day-to-day operations.
Every decision we make speaks to the principles of founder
Stewart Esplen’s vision of Humberview. John, Stewart’s
son, who leads the Humberview Group routinely engages
every member of the team. The company itself has a good
reputation. We are not only known for our high service
standards, but also for looking after our employees through
astute benefit plans and development programs. The bottom
line is that we work together with the goal of providing the
best service to each customer. Our managers have an open
door policy, to incite openness and good communication.
Another component that sets us apart is our involvement
with charities. We’ve participated and raised funds for many
issues including healthcare. Through sponsorships we’ve
given back to the community, along with hosting bike rides,
children’s racing programs, a ski championship as well as a
black tie and blue jeans event, to name a few.
Is there a set of criteria people should look for when
buying a new car?
Buying a car is usually very personal and varies from case to
case, so there isn’t a general set of norms. Instead we train
our team to sell a car to fit our client’s needs and lifestyle.
What do you think is the biggest barrier to success in
today’s car market? How have you overcome it?
Competition is by far the biggest challenge. It’s
unfortunate, but everyone is trying to undercut the next
person and it always comes down the price point. Due to
the German engineering of Volkswagens, the price point
is a little higher. We’ve been able to stay very relevant
by investing in our team. It’s very important to build
relationships to get ahead of the game. Building loyalty
and finding common ground with your clients will go
a long way to creating a rapport—it’s always been the
Humberview way.
“I’ve always had a love for racing cars, in fact, I participated
in the World Rally Championship before becoming an
apprentice, later moving up to master technician.”
47

Andrew Lennox
General Manager
Humberview Chevrolet Buick GMC & Motorsports Brands
i n t e r v i e w : Kara Kuryllowicz p o r t r a i t : Wilson Huynh Studio
Andrew Lennox knows that today’s consumers are more
sophisticated than ever before because he’s seen their
demands evolve over three decades in the industry.
As General Manager of four Humberview businesses, he’s
tasked with ensuring 220 team members, including the
Sales and Service Managers, truly understand Humberview’s
commitment to serving customers better each and every day.
This philosophy starts right from day one with new team
members as they join the HG team and are coached by John
Esplen, our CEO on the company mission and vision.
“John takes the time monthly to share our values and our
WAY at HG—and this provides an excellent example for
our team members to follow.”
To that end, they’re giving their staff more space and leadingedge
technology with the planned expansion of the 1650
The Queensway location with a massive renovation that
will include an additional 8 cars in the showroom, a large
café and lounge with all the requirements one needs to stay
connected, and a state of the art drive through and carwash
that will be free to Humberview Chevrolet Buick GMC guests
at all times the dealership is open.
Andrew has had his hand in designing four other dealerships
in the past, but the new Humberview is one he is most
excited about.
What are you most excited about at Humberview
Chevrolet Buick GMC right now?
Opening the new facility in the spring of 2017 and seeing
exactly how car buyers and, as importantly, our team
members, get what they really need and want from the new
and renovated spaces.
How will this project improve the customer experience?
The new dealership is designed to add value to the customer
experience at every step with a focus on improving
turnaround time for our customers with an express service.
We’re really taking it to the next level with new hoists and
shop equipment that make our terrific technicians even
more efficient and productive to put customers back in the
driver’s seat more quickly.
The new dealership is set to open in spring 2017
48

Humberview Chevrolet Buick GMC team
How has the company’s customer-centric approach
defined Humberview Chevrolet Buick GMC’s success?
This business has been built on the Esplen family’s deep
understanding of consumers and of course, a passion for
automotive sales and service. Today, that commitment
to service and value must also include a real focus on the
ever-evolving industry-specific technology.
About 35 per cent of our customers are repeat and referral
which certainly indicates we consistently satisfy the people
who buy and service their vehicles at our dealership. They
obviously love what we do for them or they wouldn’t keep
coming back for more and sending their families and friends
our way.
Which has more of an impact on Humberview’s success
–people or technology?
Technology plays a really significant role, but ultimately,
the technology doesn’t work without the team we have
and the relationships they build and their commitment
to excellence. Bricks and mortar don’t bring our guests
back—it’s all about the process of making our guests feel the
difference—and see the difference in the way we service and
sell them vehicles.
Senior Sales Representatives Steve Turner and Joe Molino
have been with us for 40 years and together they and
Humberview become part of the family story when you’ve
put the grandparents, parents and children in vehicles
generation to generation. That is the success of the business
and the team we have in place at Humberview.
GM Technical Service Manager, Karim Shivji, who has been
with us for 31 years, has become one of the most senior,
respected GM technicians in Canada and is regularly called
on by GM as one of the company’s top, go-to, experts.
Why should consumers buy a vehicle from
Humberview Group?
Our most innovative, consumer-friendly policies are the
result of our ability to listen to our customers and put
ourselves in their position.
Here are just two policies that set us apart:
30-day Exchange:
If you don’t love the vehicle you drive
off our lot, for whatever reason, bring it
back to us within 30 days or 2,500 km and
we’ll exchange it—no questions asked.
Test Drive from Home/Work/
Wherever:
If you want to drive the vehicle around
the block at 1650 The Queensway, that’s
perfectly fine with us but we know that
you need to get a feel for this vehicle
when you drive the way you do every day.
49

“We are taking the customer experience to the next level
in so many ways with this new store. Free car washes,
vacuuming, washer fluid top-ups and no charge alignment
and tire wear diagnostics come with every visit. And we
can service any make or model with the new facility.”
Why should consumers have their cars serviced at
Humberview?
We fix it right the first time, every time!
Humberview’s 40-member service team is led by John
Cordeiro and Jerry Meneray, our service managers. 19 of our
34 staff are GM Certified Grand Master technicians and every
year, Humberview spends hundreds of thousands of dollars
on training and continuing education for our service and
sales teams.
We are also one of the largest GM Parts Departments in
Canada. That means we have the right parts, on the shelf
TODAY- and we can get our customers back on the road
faster. If you use your car or truck for business- you can’t
afford downtime. This parts team have decades of experience
behind the counter, and we will have your parts in stock.
What matters most to automotive consumers today?
People want different things. What matters to one person
isn’t as important to someone else and the OEMS are
constantly evolving to stay in line with consumers’ musthaves
and nice-to-haves.
When a consumer walks into our Chevrolet dealership—
one of the largest in Canada—and is looking at
performance cars such as the Corvette, the performance
and technology are the must-haves. However for most
consumers, active and passive safety systems—for
example the Chevy Cruze with its 10 airbags—as well as
fuel economy, are the real hot buttons.
Some people will get excited about the Corvette and Camaro
but others will get a kick out of the Yukon Denali because it
can handle the kids, the dogs and all the gear.
What’s your favourite car?
The Corvette Z06 is just as thrilling as a Ferrari or Porsche
and about half the price, but I would likely lose my license
so I drive a Yukon Denali! It fits my family lifestyle the best –
and it is incredible on the road in any condition.
50

The 2016
VW
Tiguan
By Aamer Merchant
For those who don’t know, the name ‘Tiguan’ comes
from combining tiger and iguana into one. An
appropriate name for a strong energetic midsize
SUV that is made to adapt to any road and weather
conditions. With plenty of options and a peppy 2.0
litre 200 horsepower engine to happily get you from
A to B—and maybe convince you to go further to an
unplanned C.
I met with Tim San Andres from Humberview
Volkswagen at 1650 The Queensway, to get an intro to
the Tiguan and then test drive. Tim, who is obviously a
Tiguan fan, gave us a run down of the features and the
difference between the 4 models which are: Trendline,
Special Edition, Comfortline and Highline.
I jumped into the cockpit of a Tiguan Comfortline.
Heated leatherette seats, some nice tunes on a Fender
premium audio system and a full tank of gas. Let the
ride begin! I threw it in drive, hit the gas and without
any hesitation this machine was going. A highly
responsive steering wheel made the SUV feel more like
a sporty car. It was sharp around the corners and a tight
turning radius made U turns a breeze. I tried out the
Tiptronic feature of this transmission and decided to
stay there. There was no lag between the shifts and no
jerking when shifting between acceleration.
The SUV was fun to drive and I can easily see an owner
winning a few speeding tickets till they get used to the
smooth yet extremely responsive acceleration the 200 hp
engine delivers. The cluster panel was clear and easily
understood with all controls comfortably in the drivers
reach. No blind spots in this vehicle and something
about the finesse of a German interior that makes your
ride comfortable and rich at the same time.
The Trendline is the base model. It is a two wheel drive
and the only model that is available with a manual
transmission which starts at $24,990.00 and the
automatic starts at $26,390.00. All the other models are
automatic and have 4motion, which is 4-wheel drive.
It comes with numerous standard features including
Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, front fog lights
and rear-view camera.
Humberview VW’s most popular model is the Special
Edition. It starts from $29,998.00 and it has most of the
features of the Convenience package standard on it. The
biggest difference is the 4Motion, 17” wheels, dual zone
climatronic air-conditioning system and push button
start. With this one, you can add on a panoramic power
sunroof for $1,400.00 and a navigation package for
$995.00 that consists of a larger touch screen, navigation
system and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Once you go up to the Comfortline, the panoramic
sunroof, SiriusXM radio and other features are
standard on this SUV and additional features such as
leatherette interior, and 18” wheels are also included.
This truck starts at $33,998.00. You can get an
additional Technology package for $1,295.00 and that
will give you the 6.33” touch screen with navigation
system and a 9 speaker Fender premium audio system
that includes a subwoofer.
The Comfortline is the first line that you can add the
Bi-Xenon headlights.
Finally there is the Highline, which has the Comfortline
features plus it’s own add-ons such as 12-way power
driver seat, 18” alloy tires and Discover Media package,
starting at $38,490.
The Tiguan has a 5 star crash safety ratings all the
way around, anti-lock brakes and 4Motion that helps
prevent skids. VW also uses hot form steel which is a
thicker gauge steel than your average car and they use
laser seam welding vs. spot welding. Tim compared it
to a zipper vs. buttons. Also the ‘B’ pillars: which is the
middle pillar that comes into play for a side impact, they
52

are the 2 to 3 three times thicker than the competition.
VW further placed the seats 4 to 5 inches away from the
‘B’ pillar thus increasing distance between you and the
impact. The Tiguan also has the standard crumple zones
and reinforced beams in the front, rear and sides.
There are six airbags. In the front there are the driver
and passenger airbags and then side impact airbags that
run along the side of the entire vehicle.
In the event of a front-end impact, the engine block will
automatically dismount thus preventing it from being
pushed back into the cockpit.
When it comes to competition, Tim believes it would
be the Toyota Rav4, Mazda Cx5 and Subaru Outback.
However you are getting much more with the Tiguan
base model than what you would get with the others.
And he considers the Tiguan to be in a class itself because
you’re getting the German engineering and experience
for the low equivalent price of a RAV4 or a CX5.
When asked about the X3 and how he would compare it
to that, Tim notes that the X3 would be at a significantly
higher price tag. VW is considered an entry level German
luxury. So you are getting a lot of the feel, materials,
build quality and the safety of German vehicles for a
significantly lower price tag. Another factor is that VW
does own Audi and subsequently a lot of the technology
and quality trickles down to all VW’s.
I have to agree with Tim. Anyone who has driven a
German car would agree that the extra attention to detail
makes a big difference in the drive experience.
The Tiguan would be a perfect daily driver
for anyone who wants the extra height,
ground clearance and storage with all the
fun features of a VW and without the bulk
and gas consumption of a full size SUV.
This is a fun, sporty feeling compact SUV
that delivers on demand.
2016 Special Edition Tiguan
2.0 TSI Automatic Tiptronic 4Motion AWD
starting
from $29,998
17” Fortaleza alloy wheels with all-season tires
Auto-dimming interior rearview mirror
Automatic headlights with coming and leaving home function
Black roof rails
Climatronic® dual-zone electronic climate control
Heatable front seats and washer nozzles
KESSY – keyless access with push-start button
Leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and shift knob
Privacy glass
Rain-sensing wipers
USB audio input
Humberview Volkswagen · 1650 The Queensway, Toronto · (416) 259-7656
53

the
2016 Corvette Stingray LT1
By Emily Atkins
The Chevrolet Corvette is one of the most iconic, instantly recognizable cars of the past seven
decades. From its birth in the 1950s, through seven unique generations, the “Vette” has always
been a coveted ride for sports car lovers. The new 2016s are no different.
Tyler Champagne is a Product Specialist at Humberview
Chevrolet who knows the features and numbers of these cars
in his sleep. And if he also dreams of driving one, who could
blame him—he’d be in good company along with all the
other enthusiasts who’d love to get behind the wheel of the
new Stingray or its big brother the Corvette Z06.
Because to drive one is to love it. Both the Stingray and the
Z06—the Stingray’s 650-horsepower big brother—are truly
cars for driving enthusiasts. Being at the wheel of a sleek,
sexy Z06 on the track is electrifying. The throttle response
and handling mesh seamlessly, and the car just wants to
carve up the corners, faster and faster. But equally important,
the Vette is a sweet, well-behaved ride on the street.
“When I start talking to customers,” Tyler says, “I like to find
out how the Corvette has been involved in their life.”
He asks because there is a huge fan base for the Corvette, and
some have been in love with—and have owned—the cars for
years. “About 75 percent of people absolutely love the new
styling,” Tyler says. But some of the repeat buyers might need
more convincing about some of the design changes—like the
new tail-lights.
But they still love the cars, he adds.
And it’s hard not to when such a gorgeous machine like the
base model 1LT can be had for a really reasonable $66,395
(including freight). It could be you driving a brand new 2016
off the lot.
The Corvette Stingray Coupe offers a 455-horsepower, 6.2-
litre V8 that can be mated to either a 7-speed manual or
8-speed automatic transmission.
54

SPECS
Almost all the Corvettes
sold at Humberview are preordered,
without a test drive.
“People know what they
want, and they know they
want a Corvette.”
Tyler says he gets lots of questions about the two available
transmissions. “It’s more gears than we’re used to seeing,”
he notes. “But it’s one of the easiest manual transmissions to
drive. It’s phenomenally smooth, with great clutch feel.”
The automatic with paddle shifters is equally impressive,
delivering beautiful, lightning quick, rev-matched shifts
with a flick of the finger. In other words, they both make the
driver feel in control of the horsepower.
New for 2016, the Stingray has gained some beautiful
interior and exterior details like a sporty flat-bottom steering
wheel, optional two-tone GT seats, a carbon-fibre hood
option and several eye-catching new colour combinations
and design packages.
There are also stunning new wheels to choose from in silver,
black, machined and chrome. Helping to protect them from
nasty curb rash is a front parking view camera available on
the 2LT and 3LT trims levels.
The interior is earning a lot of praise, Tyler says.
“The one thing that I hear constantly is ‘Wow look at this
interior, it’s phenomenal!’ There are tons of different colour
options and even different types of leather as you go up
through the ranks from 1 to 2 to 3LT.”
What buyers are enjoying is a combination of new
materials—the cockpit is fully wrapped with soft-touch
materials—the smaller, flat-bottomed wheel which makes
for precise steering inputs, and improved tech interface,
including a separate climate-control for the passenger.
Upscale touches include choices of contrasting stitching,
2016 Corvette Stingray LT1
$66,395 (MSRP, incl. freight)
• Rear-wheel drive 2-door coupe, seats 2
• 6.2-litre V8 engine making 455 hp /
460 lb.-ft. of torque
• 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
transmission
• 18-inch front wheels, 19-inch rear
• EPA estimated fuel economy (MPG):
17 city/ 29 hwy (Manual);
16 city / 29 hwy (Automatic);
premium recommended
• 8-inch colour display with
Chevrolet My Link
• Keyless entry
• 8-way power bucket seats
• WiFi hotspot and Sirius radio ready
and materials that include carbon fiber, aluminum, Napa
leather and micro-suede.
If you want to step up a notch, check out the Z51
performance lineup. The 1LT Z51 starts at $72,145, the 2LT
Z51 begins at $76,620, and the 3LT opens for $82,930 (freight
included). These cars add a spoiler; bigger, forged-aluminum
wheels (19 inches on the front and 20 inches on the rear
versus the 18-/19-inch setup for the base Coupe); cooled
performance brakes with larger, slotted rotors, and black
painted calipers; enhanced suspension with 45-mm Bilstein
dampers; an upgraded exhaust that adds five horsepower;
and, dry sump lubrication.
With the manual 7-speed transmission, the Z51-equipped
car is capable of a 3.8-second zero to 60 mph, and a 12-
second quarter mile. Impressive numbers indeed, and the
automatic shaves a second off that zero to 60 run.
All this adds up to a supremely track-capable car, that’s still
a delight to drive in town. In fact, the Corvette’s adjustable
driving modes—Tour, Sport and Track (standard on all
models)—make it a remarkably adaptable ride.
And it’s a popular one, too. According to Tyler, almost all the
Corvettes sold at Humberview are pre-ordered, without a
test drive. “People know what they want,” he says. “And they
know they want a Corvette.”
Humberview Chevrolet · 3200 Bloor Street West, Toronto · (416) 236-1011
55

HUMBERVIEW MOTORSPORTS
If you are finally ready to purchase your luxury dream car—without breaking the
bank—Humberview Motorsports is the place to go. At this premium exotic and
sports used car dealership you will find the highest quality pre-owned luxury
automobiles from the world's top automakers. The selection of the finest in the
world of cars: Audi, Lexus, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin, Bentley,
Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Porsche, Rolls Royce, and more.
56

Competitive and tailored financing
Performance car auto service & repair
Upgrades, custom parts and installation
Race-day preparation and maintenance
225B Dundas St. East, Mississauga · 1 (888) 327-2498 · www.humberviewmotorsports.com
57

Service Specials
These offers expire Dec 31, 2016
10 % off
FrontBrake
Pads&Discs
(price is model dependent)
sTARTING from:
Chevrolet
Buick
GMC
$349+TAX
sTARTING from:
VW
$459+TAX
10 % off
Rear
Brake
Pads&Discs
sTARTING from:
$
329 +tax
10 % off Tire
Rotation
10% off wheel
Alignment
10 % off WinterTires
&TireStorage
1650 The Queensway
416-259-3030
3200 Bloor St West
416-236-1011
1650 The Queensway
416-259-7656
*Must present this coupon to redeem discounts. Only valid at these locations.

60

elness
eaut
ealt
p h o t o : Ian Woo 61

Nicole Keane
Owner:
Indulge Beauty Bar
i n t e r v i e w : Kara Kuryllowicz
p o r t r a i t : Wilson Huynh Studio
As a business owner who lives and works in Etobicoke,
Nicole is firmly entrenched in her dynamic, vibrant
neighborhood, where the annual Mystic Pointe Community
Party and Etobicoke’s Ladies Night Out give her yet
another opportunity to share her passion for beauty. As an
esthetician with over 11 years of experience, Nicole’s love
for all things beautiful is what makes Indulge Beauty Bar a
destination worth checking out. You can expect a full range
of services performed by the Industry's top professionals at
Indulge Beauty Bar.
As you celebrate Indulge’s first anniversary can you tell
us what inspired your new venture?
This neighbourhood has been my home for almost five years
and I’m committed to helping everyone feel comfortable and
confident in their own skin. I saw the need for an affordable,
yet top-notch experience and set out to create Indulge Beauty
Bar. The founding idea was to launch a one-stop destination
that can fulfill all of your beauty needs, all in an opulent
setting without the hefty price tag.
In our modern, fast-paced world, we need access to a full
range of services all under one roof. Having all of your
esthetics and hair services coordinated for you at one
location is infinitely more relaxing than trying to organize
them at a number of different locations, then rushing from
one spot to another.
What is unique about Indulge Beauty Bar?
It is the combination of many elements, including our
convenient location, the beautiful well-designed modern
space, the fair prices, the friendly experienced staff, the
range of high-quality products and of course, our ability to
exceed our client’s expectations. Having an element of fun
is also really important, after all our clients come in to relax
and get pampered!
We are open late until 8:00 p.m. during the week and to
6:00 p.m. on weekends to accommodate our clients’ busy
lifestyles. We have a big-screen TV that features favourite
shows and movies. You can also enjoy a cappuccino or
espresso while listening to some uplifting modern music.
Our clients love that we offer monthly promotions, the
convenience of booking online and the new Indulge Rewards
program which allows you to earn your way to free services.
We welcome private group parties and events, so whether
it’s a bridal party, shower, birthday or bachelorette – we host
them all at Indulge Beauty Bar.
What services and products can clients expect to find?
A full range of services including manicures, pedicures,
skincare and facials, waxing, threading, tinting, makeup,
blowouts, hair extensions, haircuts and hair colour. As for
62

products, we exclusively use professional brands that we
know deliver the best results, from the cuticle oil to the
wax and everything in between. We never cut any corners.
We don’t offer or recommend any product that we haven’t
personally tested and proven over time.
During your manicure and pedicure, you can relax and enjoy
the hand and foot massages as we use lotion that is parabenfree
and petroleum-free. In addition, we use nail polish that
is 7 Free, which means it does not contain: toluene, camphor,
formaldehyde, phthalates (DBP), formaldehyde resin, xylene
and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK).
This spring and summer, we are also introducing some
new and exciting products, including fun flip-flops, trendy
fashion accessories, and expanding our own makeup line
which is manufactured here in Canada.
What about the health and safety standards
you maintain?
Health and safety are of paramount importance and we take
it very seriously. We meet and exceed the City of Toronto
Public Health standards. We follow strict sanitation and
sterilization protocols, use medical-grade disinfectant and
sterilize all tools and stations between each and every client.
If a tool cannot be sterilized, we simply replace it with a
brand new one. We use jet-less pedicure stations and we
never double dip our wax sticks.
Can you tell me about your team?
We make a point of hiring experienced estheticians and hair
stylist who truly see this as a long-term career and recognize
that their initial and ongoing training ensures our client’s
benefit from our knowledge, technical skill and experience.
Indulge’s beauty team are professionals who have invested in
the formal education and practical training that is required
to earn certificates from recognized programs at schools
such as Humber and George Brown. While these programs
are excellent, I encourage and provide off-site seminars and
training sessions year-round as well as in-house training
which enables the staff to learn from each other and share
tips and tricks. Our industry, its products, processes and
techniques are continually evolving and I encourage my staff
to continually seek out new learning experiences.
That excitement is contagious and it’s good for everyone at
Indulge.
The convenience of one-stop services, attention to detail,
high standards, progressive experienced staff and the
enjoyable overall atmosphere allow our clients to indulge in
the best beauty experience available.
Book your next service and mention the
promo code: QMAG2016 to receive 15% off*
*Certain terms and conditions apply.
Offer valid until September 30th 2016.
Indulge Beauty Bar · 274 Manitoba st, etobicoke
416.463.8543 · www.indulgebeautybar.com
63

Dr. Sky Naslenas
B.Sc, DDS, M.Sc, FRCD(C)
Staff Orthodontist, Hospital
for Sick Children
Associate in Dentistry,
University of Toronto
Owner:
Royal York Orthodontics
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p o r t r a i t : Wilson Huynh Studio
Dr. Naslenas, a mirror image of Nicole Kidman, is energy,
charm, and professionalism personified. Perhaps for all
those reasons combined, the local cohort of Canadian
bred models and actors have sought out Dr. Sky as the
Orthodontist of their choice.
Dr. Sky sets high expectations for herself and gets results.
A clear vision of what she wanted out of life propelled her
to complete dentistry school and open her own practice,
all the while having a vibrant and fulfilling family life.
She envisioned a clinic where patients feel like they are
part of the journey.
The age of Google has equipped us all with plethora
of information, hence patients are well-informed and
opinionated. Dr. Sky has introduced a fresh ‘co-discovery’
approach into her practice. She endeavours to listen and
work together with patients, reconciling their wants and
needs. The culmination of these treatment plans produces
everlasting results of beautiful smiles, ensuring that the
most comfortable and well suited treatment modality is
used to get the patients there.
Why dentistry, especially the branch of orthodontics?
I love the aspect of design; I am a very visual person. It was
important for me to have an artistic element in my chosen
career path. It was difficult to reconcile my interest in arts with
my love for health sciences. I started out pursuing medicine,
aiming to become a plastic surgeon. My desire for more control
over my life in terms of a work life balance persuaded me to
decline admission into medical school. Instead, I decided to
pursue a career in Orthodontics and never looked back! I get to
design beautiful smiles in the context of well balanced faces,
in an environment of my choice. I derive enormous joy and
satisfaction from achieving a final result that is aesthetically
pleasing and functional at the same time.
What prompted you to open your own clinic?
I had a very real image in my mind of how I wanted to practice
Orthodontics, which didn’t mesh well with other practices I
was invited to join. I wanted to wake up in the morning and be
excited to go to work and make a difference. Part of that vision
included my own practice design, and being able to hire the
right team to work along side of me.
Any challenges being a female orthodontist today?
Well, I was six months pregnant in a male dominated field when
I opened my clinic in 2005. It’s always been a challenge and in
some respects it continues to be, well after establishing myself.
To tell you the truth, I am always up for a challenge! By now,
patients know who we are and what we stand for. They find us
on their own from far and wide based on our reputation.
64

“Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions based on values
rather than personal gain. As doctors, the greatest ethical test
that we’re ever going to face is the treatment of those who are at
the mercy of our judgment.”
What types of services do you offer at your clinic?
My main focus is aesthetic options for straightening teeth,
such as Invisalign and braces on the inside of the teeth
(hidden braces). I have also carved out a specific niche for
treatment of migraine headaches and myofacial pain with
Botox injections. Using Botox for this type of procedure has
been my contribution to the Practice of Dentistry in Ontario.
I was the first dentist in Ontario to establish a relationship
with Allergan (the company that makes Botox). I now
offer official training courses to other dental and medical
practitioners in this area of my expertise.
How fast is the technology changing in your field and
how do you stay up to date?
Every three to five years a major development surfaces and
it essentially becomes a game changer in the field. These
new techniques are not always taught in school, so I read the
latest dentistry publications and attend conferences to stay
abreast of these developments. My Associate Staff position
at the Hospital for Sick Children demands that what I teach
the next generation of residents in training, be the latest
advances in the field.
What are some of the things one must consider before
beginning on an orthodontic procedure?
It’s important to be clear on the time commitment involved
and to be patient! The results take time, and with our fast
paced world, we all have a tendency to be lured towards
immediate gratification. Everyday tasks like brushing your
teeth, may take a little longer and slurred speech may also
be a concern initially. I like to get everything out in the
open right from the beginning, so as not to mislead anyone.
Working through the process by explaining the best and
worst case scenarios prepares everyone involved.
Is everyone a good candidate?
Yes, definitely. Your smile can never be too perfect!
Patient experience
This first example of patient experience
speaks to the “human factor” that is as
important as being a superb orthodontist.
I will quote an excerpt from one of my
Sick Kids patient’s “thank you” cards. It is
touching to me that a human factor was
noticed, not just my professional acuity.
As a doctor I always aim for results that are
nothing short of excellent, and that reward
me on a professional level. However, the
journey of how I got there is very important
to the patient.
“Firstly, a great person along with a
great orthodontist. I have been her
patient for over ten years and not
once have I had a complaint about any
aspect of my care. Very friendly and absolutely
aware of her patient and the treatment she is
providing to them. The results I got from her
treatment are absolutely phenomenal...she has
done a great job on my teeth and continues to do
so. Without a doubt, best orthodontist in Toronto.
She has changed many lives and fixed problems
that seemed to be unfixable. Dr. Sky is a great
orthodontist, a lovely lady, full of positive energy.”
65

BEFORE
AFTER 24MO. INVISALIGN
Patient experience:
This second example is the use of cutting
edge technology (Invisalign) to treat a patient
comprehensively. This case demonstrated the
importance of not only aligning the teeth, but
imparting better facial balance overall.
Notice the overall appearance in the patient’s
profile, the difference in the position of the
upper lip and the tip of the nose. Advancing the
upper jaw in a non-growing individual would
require jaw surgery, however proper diagnosis
and execution may harness the patient’s natural
growth potential to yield improvement in the
overall facial appearance in a conservative and
non-invasive manner.
Can you describe the perfect customer experience?
From the moment a patient walks through the door for their
first visit, I want them to feel welcome and to know that I
strive for accessibility and flexibility while attaining the best
possible results. I want my patients to know that they will be
fully supported through this process. Many of my patients
find us through word of mouth, so my team and I work very
hard to live up to the high standard that we set for our clinic.
I make it a practice to ensure that my patients have all the
information they need. Above all, I want every patient to
leave happy and, if, for some reason that’s not the case, I will
do my utmost to find a solution.
What influences your judgement?
Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions based on
values rather than personal gain. As doctors, the greatest
ethical test that we’re ever going to face is the treatment of
those who are at the mercy of our judgment.
They say a beautiful smile makes all the difference, how
true is this statement?
A smile has the ability to influence life in a positive way, it
can speak to one’s self-confidence, and straighter teeth can
create an illusion of whiter teeth. I like to say, a smile is a
curve that puts everything straight.
properly before I call upon our team of Plastic surgeons to
reconstruct the jaws. The treatment of Cleft Lip and Palate
and other facial deformities is paramount to a patient’s
overall well-being, including confidence, adequate nutrition,
emotional stability and intellectual growth. Joining the
world renowned team at Sick Kids has been an honour and
a privilege. It has brought my career full circle since my
original desire was to work in facial reconstruction. I have
personal and professional satisfaction from every angle. I
consider myself immensely fortunate to have been granted
these opportunities.
What motivates you?
The feeling of knowing that I am in a position made a
positive contribution to someone’s life is enough to make
me jump out of bed every morning. It’s truly gratifying to see
my patients’ faces light up with beautiful smiles.
I feel very grateful to have the love and support of my
husband Tony, who, despite having an uber successful career
as a surgeon, finds the time to be with the family, to be a
role model to our children, and to encourage me in all of my
endeavours.
Tell us about your involvement with the Hospital for
Sick Children
I was invited to join a multidisciplinary team, whose
focus is treating craniofacial cases, such as Cleft Lip and
Palate deformation, Pierre Robin, Crouzon’s and others.
My role is to ensure that the patient’s occlusion if set up
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royal york orthodontics · 3029 Bloor St W, Etobicoke
416.207.0885 · skynaslenas@royalyorkprtho.com · www.royalyorkortho.com

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Family Fun
& Activities
p h o t o : Ian Woo
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Martha Moen
Founder:
Paint & Pixels
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter
p h o t o s : Wilson Huynh Studio
With a passion for the arts, Martha set out to be a trailblazer
in the art meets digital tech world. Her imagination led her
to envision a space where people of all ages—especially
children—feel free to express themselves through
traditional art, such as painting or sculpture, integrated with
technology.
What led you to open Paint & Pixels?
My children have always been drawn to painting and
exploring through art. The expression on my daughter’s
face when she is creating is just pure joy! I wanted to
increase that emotion in her and allow her to explore
further. My immediate thought was to enroll her in art
classes, but I couldn’t find anything suitable that also
integrated other digital mediums. I wanted to find a class
that would encourage experimentation with art, having
fun with it and using one’s creative resources to transform
images using technology.
What is Paint & Pixels?
It’s an art studio that combines the digital arts—iPads, art
applications and a ‘green screen’—into the creative process
of the traditional arts such as painting and sculpture. Our
workshops, camps and classes integrate the two elements.
What are some of Paint & Pixels programs and classes?
We have a wide variety of classes, programs and events to
suit any taste—from charity night and craft night to themed
birthday parties and School Break camps. We believe that
it’s important to give back to the community, so we created
Charity Night—painting with a purpose. The activity is
a night of fun with a percentage of proceeds going to a
local cause. We feature a different charity every month.
Craft Night is a family and friends event, which includes a
painting lesson and a drink.
One of my most popular events is hosting themed birthday
parties. We also organize custom events for any occasion;
for example, team events or bachelorette parties. The ‘green
screen’ is a great visual arts tool which allows children to see
themselves in a setting of their choosing—their favourite
movie, pop star video or even investigating another planet.
It really encourages imagination and creative growth. One
of the best parts of every activity and event is that you get to
leave with your creation ready to hang at home.
Tell me about your team
Every single person we have on board brings a different
dimension to the table. We have the very talented Kelly and
Lisa, a sister duo whose Grandfather painted with the Group
of Seven. Brandon is another talented artist and Paint Night
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“We want to help kids and adults enjoy all the amazing art
activities that are way too messy to do at home, and laugh
lots and have fun—there are no mistakes in art!”
leader with professional training from the Ontario College
of Art and Design. Caitlin and Silvia are core members of
the team. Caitlin is in her element when exploring colour in
abstract painting, and Silvia is an Early Childhood Educator
who loves giving kids one-on-one support to explore new
digital media. Last but not least, we have Erica, who loves to
give back and finds meaning in every piece of art, and Alana
who has a background in music and portrays a genuine
fusion of technology and art with every piece she creates.
How does art benefit children?
I believe that art not only allows a child to realize their
creative impulses, but also encourages the imaginative
process. I’ve witnessed this first hand through the
experiences of my own children, as well as every child
that walks through the Paint & Pixels door. This is one of
the only avenues where a child is really free to explore
with no boundaries. You can feel their passion when they
are creating something. They are not only proud of their
accomplishment but they put all their care and attention
into perfecting their masterpiece.
patience, creates challenges, and builds capability as well
as confidence.
Aside from the conventional tools and techniques one learns
in art class, new ways of designing have made themselves
available through the advent of technology—such as stop
motion polymer clay movie design all completed on the
iPad. One of my favourite things is watching a child focus
and concentrate on their piece of art so intently, and then
see their delighted expression as they reveal their creation to
their parents at the end. It’s pure magic!
What is the main focus of Paint & Pixels?
We have an innovative space that combines established
art techniques with emerging tools and apps. We want to
help kids and adults enjoy all the amazing art activities that
are way too messy to do at home, and laugh lots and have
fun—there are no mistakes in art!
Is there an educational component?
Art in the traditional sense of the word—paint to canvas—
has always shied away from technology integration. But
today, with the major technological advancements we’ve
come to use everyday, it’s almost a natural transition to
see what can be created using the two mediums. Whether
we’re ready or not, the world has already moved into the
technological era, so now is the perfect time to discover
how technology can enhance teaching art. Art teaches
Paint & Pixels · 699 The Queensway, Etobicoke · 6 47.351.1550
info@paintandpixels.net · www.paintandpixels.net
71

Leon Brown
President:
Royal York Football Club
i n t e r v i e w : Aviva Vetter p o r t r a i t : Ian Woo p h o t o s : Wilson Huynh Studio
From Bristol Rovers to the Winnipeg Fury, Leon Brown
lives and breathes soccer or as he commonly refers to as
football. Years after he kicked his first ball, Leon brought the
business and passion of football to the heart of Etobicoke by
launching the Royal York Football Club. The Club’s mission
is to inspire and teach football to players of all ages and skill
level with the goal of increasing their technical ability.
What made you decide to launch a soccer club?
As an ex-footballer, I thought of opening a soccer club as a
natural extension of myself. I remember the joy of kicking
the ball for the first time as a child. I was always the one who
rounded up all my friends and neighborhood kids to play.
As I retired from my professional career, those memories
were still so vivid. I needed to find my way back to football,
in any capacity. So in 2009, I came full circle and launched
Royal York Football Club and I’ve been living my passion ever
since. The best feeling is that coming to the office doesn’t
feel like work.
What programs does the club offer?
We offer a wide variety of training programs – youth
house league, recreation and competitive soccer as well as
recreation and competitive soccer for adults—something
to suit every need. Our kids training programs are set in
groups for both boys and girls. The classes range from Tiny
Tots, ages 3-4—we get our young players moving, active and
engaged with physical literacy as the primary focus. Mini
Masters and Junior Champions classes are aimed at ages 5
through 9. At this stage we encourage players to have fun
and be creative with the ball. Players aged 9 and up learn
how to train. For players who want to be in a competitive
environment, we offer multiple days specialized technical
training programs, with the goal of teaching players to
increase their technical ability with the ball at higher
speeds and greater repetition. We also have player-centric
classes, which cater to a girl’s development and technical
building. Our football school and house league are the
first entry point into the competitive world of soccer, for
boys and girls ages 5-8. Last, but definitely not least, is our
youth goalkeeping technical training, which focuses on
goalkeeper skills and conditioning.
Who is the team behind the Club?
Attitude, skill and positive support are paramount to the
game, for players, coaches and everyone in the player’s daily
life. That’s why my team consists partly of international
coaches, since they have an innate sense of the sport along
with the attitude needed to bring out the best in each player.
The bottom line is that my team, backroom staff and coaches
must be better than myself and by teaching them to push
their boundaries, I am ensuring the best possible outcome
72

“Soccer can play a key role in a child’s physical and social
development. A player develops agility, speed, endurance as well
as a strong knowledge of teamwork. Playing in a team can help
develop a child’s ability to cooperate and interact with others.”
for all involved. I strive to foster a collaborative, team workcentered
environment for each coach and backroom staff
so the feeling of camaraderie trickles down to the players,
creating a positive football environment for everyone.
How does soccer benefit children?
Soccer can play a key role in a child’s physical and social
development. A player develops agility, speed, endurance as
well as a strong knowledge of teamwork. Playing in a team
can help develop a child’s ability to cooperate and interact
with others. Experiencing winning and losing as well as the
highs of achieving a certain technique are also beneficial. An
important developmental factor is not giving up when things
fall short. To excel, communication is key and everyone
must work together. Lastly, soccer is beneficial as it ensures
each player’s confidence on and off the field, keeps them
physically active and encourages strong civility within their
family, friends and community.
How important is technique to the game?
Technique is everything in football. Even at an individual’s
active start age, teaching minimal technique with regard to
basic movement is paramount. As a player delves deeper into
the sport, technique along with an intimate understanding
of the game becomes increasingly imperative. It’s no
longer enough to be fast, big or strong. There comes a
time in a player’s lifespan when they have to continuously
demonstrate technique and composure with the ball.
If interested, how does one get to the professional level
of football?
Making it to the professional level is extremely difficult—
about one percent of players will actually go all the way.
Enrollment at Royal York comprises mainly of recreational
soccer. The majority of players join Royal York Football Club
to experience good technical football training in a football
environment, develop technical skills, have fun and play the
game to the best of their ability. The other percentage enrolls
with the hope of taking their game to the collegiate level or
to experience football overseas. This is where the business
of football begins. To really have the best chance of getting
to the top, children would normally begin training between
the ages of 5-11. Aside from the player having soccer as his or
her primary focus and often only vision in life, technique,
fitness, strength and a strong attitude is everything when it
comes to competing at the very top.
Our role here at Royal York Football Club is to be the
cornerstone of a child’s training and development with the
aim of achieving their playing goal. If a player flies through
the various development stages while demonstrating
professional level qualities, we would do our utmost to get
73

the player noticed outside of Canada using our network. A
good rule of thumb is to start a player’s technical journey
while they are young. Though there are a lot of high
achieving players who’ve had a late start. My belief is to
never underestimate someone’s capability.
How popular is football in Canada?
The game of football is becoming more and more popular
these days. Historically, football in Canada has been seen
more as a leisure activity pastime than a proper training
and technical structured sport. In recent years, Canadian
professional soccer teams such as Toronto FC, Montreal
Impact and Vancouver Whitecaps have really peaked the
public’s interest in the beautiful game here in Canada.
This in turn has helped with the popularity and education
of the sport. Because of the rise in popularity and global
education of the game, children are beginning to play soccer
at home from a young age in a more structured technical
environment. Canada is not yet a football powerhouse,
but it’s a brilliant time to play or be involved in the game.
Coaching and education around technical football training
has gotten much better on all levels, this can only mean great
things for football across Canada. I am positive, passionate
and very optimistic for the future of football in this country.
Tell me about your role in giving back to the community
Being involved in the community is one of the most
important elements of the Club. We give back to
the community by offering free technical programs
throughout the year. We also host an annual free
football day for parents and players of the club. Buffet,
beverages and a free tournament are served up. One of our
initiatives involves working with the deaf as well as atrisk
communities to provide them with technical football
training on a regular basis.
What is your philosophy?
My philosophy comes from a holistic approach, focusing on
training along with development. Development goes hand in
hand with training and is key to grasping the game. We use
a player-centric approach, where we hone in on individual
skill, providing him or her with a tailored pathway, placing
each player into the position where they have the best
chance of growing. This way the cards are always stacked in
their favor!
Royal York Football Club · 701 The Queensway, Etobicoke · 6 47.7 17.28 4 6
info@royalyorkfc.com · www.royalyorkfc.com
74

Technical Training Programs
Royal York Football Club provides various technical football
training programs to primarily the youth market, 2 -15 years
of age. Below are a list of the programs on offer at the club:
Dad and Me (ages 2-3)
Summer Camps (ages 3-12)
Tiny Tots (ages 3-4)
Mini Fun (ages 4-5)
Mini Masters (ages 5-6)
4 on 4 house League (ages 5-12)
Football School (ages 5-10)
Junior Champions (ages 7-8)
Development Technical (ages 8-11)
Goalkeeping Tech Training (ages 8-15)
Presidents Tech Training (ages 9-14)
Junior Stars Tech Training (ages 9-10)
Royal York Juniors (ages 11-12)
Recreation House League (ages 13-15)
Private 1 on 1 Tech Training (ages 8-50)
Private Group Tech Training (ages 8-50)
Go online to view all our programs and register:
www.royalyorkfc.com

Q MAGAZINE
CELEBRATING WEST TORONTO
PUBLISHER
Stand & Deal Inc.
PRESIDENT
Maya S. Merchant
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Aviva Vetter
ART DIRECTOR
Ian Woo
PHOTOGRAPHY
Kateryna Akhmadeeva,
Wilson Huynh, Ian Woo
WRITERS
Emily Atkins, Aamer Merchant,
Kara Kuryllowicz, David Menzies,
Aviva Vetter
CONTACT US
info@stand-deal.com
647.890.2490
Q Magazine is published twice
a year by Stand & Deal Inc.
and distributed for free with
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p h o t o : Ian Woo
All content is subject to copyright by Q Magazine or content
providers. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited
except with written permission from Stand & Deal Inc. The
publisher is not liable for any claims or statements made by
the advertisers.
76

New Orthodontic Studio in Roncesvalles
opening July/August 2016
New patients welcome! Call us at 416 207 0885
Dr. Sky Naslenas
Dr. Naslenas is a leading authority
in the field of orthodontics. Earning
her Masters of Science degree and
Orthodontic certification from
University of Toronto, Dr. Sky is a
trusted expert in her field.
Dr. Naslenas also holds an associate
staff position at the Hospital for
Sick Children, where combined
orthodontic-surgical approach
is utilized to treat children with
craniofacial anomalies such as cleft
lip and palate, and other physiologic/
developmental challenges.
“It’s a privilege and an honour
to be able to positively
impact people’s self-esteem
and confidence.”
“Our goal at Royal York
Orthodontics is to provide
orthodontic care at an elite
standard of excellence. We want
to deliver that care in a manner
that exceeds your expectations."
Early Interceptive
treatment prevents tooth
removal and gently
guides jaw growth into
improved facial balance.
Clear aligners are virtually
invisible. Cutting-edge
approach to treatment. No
braces, just straight teeth.
Through the use of
gentle micropulses,
bone remodeling is
accelerated, allowing
teeth to move up to
50% faster.
Botox is a treatment option
for adults with chronic
migraines and helps to
alleviate muscle tension
and TMJ symptoms.
Dr. Naslenas was voted
into the list of Top 10
Female Orthodontists in
the World by her patient
feedback and reviews.
Royal York Orthodontics · 3029 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario · 416 207 0885
www.royalyorkortho.com

Proud member of The Humberview Group
GRAND REOPENING OF
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JUNE
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1650 The Queensway | Toronto, ON | M8Z 1X1 | (416) 259-7656
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