Business - Summer 2015

USINES TODAY MAGAZINE

DOWN IS

ON IT’S WAY UP NIAGARA MAYORS WEIGH IN ON DOWNTOWN REVITALIZION PROJECTS.

FORGED fromSTEELE Propelled by over 100 years of expertise, C.M. Steele is a force to be reckoned with.

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MEET THE CONTRIBUTORS

LYNN OGRYZLO Lynn is a food, wine and travel writer, author of three international award-winning cookbooks and regular contributor to REV Publications. Lynn specializes in culinary tourism covering regional cuisine destinations, slow food, culinary holidays, wine, spirits and “la dolca vita”. She can be reached for questions or comments at lynnogryzlo.com.

JILL THAM

FLAVIO GABRIELLE IAMMARINO TIEMAN

Convinced she would have made a better teen in the 80s instead of the 90s, Jill’s passion for writing came after seeing the movie Stand

by Me. When Jill is not moonlighting as a freelance writer, she is an Elementary teacher juggling her three children. Along with being a regular contributor to Today Magazine, Jill’s articles have been featured in Canadian Running, Pedal, Allergic Living and @OECTA. jilltham.wordpress.com @JillBT

Renowned for his amazing ability to affect profound change in people within an impressively short period of time, Flavio works with professional athletes, corporate clients and individuals. He has trained and instructed in the martial arts for over 30 years. He has established an excellent reputation as an effective and skilled therapist working largely on referrals from physicians, psychologists and lawyers.

PH.D., SW.,C.CHT

Gabrielle is a writer with REV Publishing and holds a passion for covering travel and event pieces.

She is always up for an adventure and loves meeting new people but also maintains close relationships with her Keurig and bicycle. Her favorite time of year is scarf season and she has easily watched the movie Armageddon 200 times. You should follow her @gabrielletieman

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 5

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Planning Planninga agetaway getawaywith withthe thekids? kids?Buff Buffalo aloNiagara Niagaraisisfull fullof offamily-friendly family-friendly activities, activities, whether whetheryou’re you’rewatching watchingriver riverotters ottersromp rompinintheir theirway waycool coolpool pool at at the the Buff Buffalo alo Zoo, Zoo, journeying journeyingthrough throughthe theworld worldofofnatural naturaland andphysical physicalsciences sciencesat atthe the Buff Buffalo alo Museum Museum ofofScience Scienceororboarding boardingaaWorld WorldWar WarIIIIera eramissile missilecruiser, cruiser,destroyer destroyer and and submarine submarine at at the Buff aloand andErie ErieCounty CountyNaval Navaland andMilitary MilitaryPark.

Park.Spark Sparkyour yourkids’ kids’ imaginations imaginations at at the Buff alo Explore&&More MoreChildren’s Children’sMuseum.

Museum.Or Ortake takethem themto tothe theHerschell HerschellCarrousel Carrousel Factory Factory Explore Museumwhere wherethey theycan canride ridean anold-fashioned old-fashionedcarrousel carrouselin inthe theworld’s world’s only only museum museum Museum kind.With WithNiagara NiagaraFalls Fallsjust justaahalf-hour half-houraway, away,we wehave have everything everything you you ofofitsitskind. needfor foran anunforgettable unforgettablefamily familyvacation! vacation! need

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“Brought kidshere hereand andthey theyloved lovedit!it!Wasn’t Wasn’tsure surewhat whatititwas wasgoing goingto tobe belike likebut butIIwas waspleasantly pleasantlysurprised. surprised.

“Brought mymy 22 kids The exhibits they have for kids are amazing.

We spent over 4 hours there and my kids were disappointed when we had had to to leave.” leave.”

The exhibits they have for kids are amazing. We spent over 4 hours there and my kids were disappointed when we Reviewed by Jen R, a TripAdvisor traveler » Georgetown, Canada » March 13, 2014 Reviewed by Jen R, a TripAdvisor traveler » Georgetown, Canada » March 13, 2014

ONTENT

PUBLISHER Rev Publishing Inc. PRESIDENT & CEO Daniel A. Pasco ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Alexandra Mills MULTI-MEDIA ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Patricia Bolus Dan Carbonara DIGITAL SALES MANAGER David Mace DIGITAL ACCOUNT CONSULTANTS Geoff Coop Rowen Larner James Love Lucas McKenzie EDITOR Megan Pasche PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Lanzillotta GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tabitha MacDonald Rachel Bertrand IT/WEB DEVELOPER Justin Soungie CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Flavio Iammarino, Lynn Ogryzlo, Jill Tham, Gabrielle Tieman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS A.J. Harlond, David Haskell TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 905.356.7283 or 1.877.888.2825 WEBSITE todaymagazine.ca

facebook.com/RevPublishingInc @revpublishing www.revpublishing.com

Business by Today Magazine is published by Rev Publishing Inc. All opinions expressed in Business Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of Rev Publishing, it’s employees or owners. Reasonable care is taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, as of the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken by Business Magazine for any errors, omissions or comments made by writers or interviewees that are contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this magazine is not the responsibility of Business Magazine.

All unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs submitted are assumed to be intended for publication or republication in whole or in part. The right to alter, edit or refuse photos and/or manuscripts intended for publication is assumed. All unsolicited material submitted to Business Magazine are submitted at the author’s risk. Manuscripts and or photographs intended to be returned must be accompanied by sufficient postage. Business Magazine does not assume any responsibility for any claims of our advertisers and reserves the right to refuse any advertising.

Cover Story 44

THE CORNERSTONE FOR INSURANCE IN NIAGARA C.M. Steele, in business since 1898.

Tool Kit 13 15 17

START OR GROW YOUR BUSINESS Access free secondary market research.

FRAUD PROTECTION PROGRAMS Quick tips to help you out.

ACCESSIBILITY IN THE WORKPLACE It’s now an Ontario Law.

Innovation 24 35

RACE AGAINST THE CLOCK These entrepreneurs know that time is money.

NIAGARA’S DOWNTOWNS Q&A’s with the Mayors of Niagara Falls, Thorold, & St. Catharines.

Lifestyle & Culture 48 51 54

TRUST YOUR INSTINCT Flavio examines the familiar “gut feeling” we all get.

TAKE YOUR SHOT Epic Golf Concepts comes to Niagara.

FRESH. FUN. FIESTA Cabo Cantina, Niagara’s newest Mexican restaurant.

Social Page 63

TODAY’S PEOPLE Snapped at events around the Region.

Destination Profile 65

EXPLORE WESTERN NEW YORK Need a little excitement this summer? From the Seneca casino properties to the Allegany Mountains, there is certainly an adventure waiting for you.

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TOOLKIT

ACCESS FREE SECONDARY MARKET RESEARCH TO START OR GROW YOUR BUSINESS

(NC) Achieving your goal of starting or growing a business begins with informing yourself – and that includes conducting market research to give you a better understanding of the current business environment. Here’s an easy two-point guideline to set you on the path to success: DETERMINE WHAT KIND OF RESEARCH YOU NEED Primary market research gathers new information, often through surveys, focus groups or questionnaires.

This can sometimes be expensive and time consuming for new or growing businesses.

Instead, entrepreneurs can begin with secondary market research, drawing on information that has already been prepared by government agencies, chambers of commerce, trade associations and other organizations. By doing secondary market research first, you will be able to identify any gaps that require primary market research.

BEGIN WITH WHAT IS ALREADY AVAILABLE You can find secondary market research at your local library, on business association websites, and in magazines and newspapers, or by contacting Canada Business Ontario (CBO).

You can take advantage of free business resources through CBO, like their Secondary Market Research Service. Research requests can be submitted online or by phone. Additional services offered free-ofcharge to help you with business planning or with an array of business topics are available toll-free at 1-888-576-4444 / TTY1-800-457-8466 or online at canadabusiness.gc.ca.

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TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 13

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QUICK TIPS TO SET UP

A FRAUD PROTECTION PROGRAM (NC) SMALL AND MID-SIZED BUSINESSES (SMES) ARE NOT IMMUNE WHEN IT COMES TO FRAUD. IN FACT, DUE TO THEIR SIZE OR TO THEIR LIMITED RESOURCES, THESE COMPANIES ARE OFTEN THE TARGET OF COSTLY SCAMS FROM BOTH OUTSIDE AND INSIDE SOURCES.

fraud might occur. Spot checks are a useful deterrent, because employees know there's a chance that fraudulent activity will be discovered.

• Check over bank statements yourself. Watch for: missing cheques or cheques issued out of sequence; unknown recipients; cheques that appear to have been altered or not signed by authorized signatories; and any other unusual detail.

• Develop a fraud policy and distribute it to all employees. This way, you make it clear that not only do you take such activities seriously, but that they have consequences. This in itself can be a deterrent.

• Take the necessary measures when you discover fraud. Having a fraud policy is useless if you don't apply it.

Additional resources to prevent fraud at work and fraud aimed at small businesses can be found online at businesscentre.yp.ca/ learning-centre. www.newscanada.com

“According to Industry Canada, SMEs represent two-thirds of all the jobs generated in the private sector, so they need to be healthy in order to contribute to the vitality of our country's economy,” says François Ramsay, the senior vice-president of corporate affairs for Yellow Pages. “That's why it's important to equip them against the various types of fraud they are regularly exposed to – and the best way for a company with limited resources to combat fraud is to set up simple prevention systems that will save considerable amounts of money and provide invaluable peace of mind.”

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP SMALL BUSINESSES SET UP A FRAUD PREVENTION PROGRAM: • Identify your company's weaknesses so that you can create and implement internal preventive mechanisms. Examples include reassessing if only one person is responsible for finances, or curbing free access to your inventory.

• Deal only with suppliers that are included on a list approved by management and whose invoices are regularly checked.

• Be aware of fraudulent solicitations of invoices or agreements, a particular kind of scam that masquerades as a legitimate company, like Yellow Pages. In response, Yellow Pages has put together a guide to help identify such fraud.

• Get to know your employees. Check their references and their professional and academic history for instances of fraudulent or illegal activities. If you want to fill a stock management position, you might think about running a credit check with the applicant's permission.

• Install security cameras to monitor activities at checkouts and in areas where products are stored. People are less likely to commit fraud if they know they are being watched.

• Conduct spot checks of specific functions in your company where TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 15

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ACCESS IBILITY IN YOUR PLACE O F BUSIN ESS IS AN ONTA RIO LAW (NC) Did you know that if you own a business in Ontario with at least one employee, you need to meet certain requirements under Ontario’s accessibility standards?

Creating an accessibility policy for employees and customers, and training your employees to serve customers with disabilities, are examples of customer service standards you are required to meet. Although requirements depend on the size of your business, providing information for handling workplace emergencies to employees with disabilities will apply regardless of the business size.

If your private or not-for profit business employs 20 or more people, you will also need to file a 2014 Compliance Report with the Ontario government, which can be found through www.mcss.gov.on.ca.

Compliance deadlines are being phased in over several years. To stay informed of the changes you can visit www.Ontario.ca/AccessON. You can also access an easy step-by-step guide to filing your report, and other free online guides, tools and templates to learn about the requirements.

Be sure to take advantage of free information and resources to help you with accessibility and other business topics by contacting Canada Business Ontario (CBO) at 1-888-576-4444 / TTY1-800457-8466 or anadabusiness.gc.ca.

CBO is a service provided through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. Further information on related programs and services is available online at FedDevOntario. gc.ca, by phone toll free at 1-866-593-5505, and by email, info@FedDevOntario.gc.ca. www.newscanada.com TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 17

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There comes a time when individuals and business owners are approached to discuss their life insurance requirements. Depending upon the circumstances, the amount, type and ownership of the life insurance policy must be determined. We strongly encourage that your financial advisor work closely with your tax advisor to determine your needs and outline the advantages and disadvantages of the policies the ownership of the policies and the tax consequences. Below are some bullet points that should be considered in arriving at your decision concerning life insurance policy.

“SHOULD THE OWNER OF LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES BE THE COMPANY OR THE INDIVIDUAL? It depends on a number of factors: One should explore the pros and cons of each ownership structure, to see which best meets the need of the individual.

Some general considerations need to be reviewed: Purpose of life insurance? Who will need the death benefit or cash surrender value? In the future, will the policy be transferred? Who has the cash flow to pay the policy premium, the individual or the company?

There is no wrong answer to the question of ownership. Reviewing the individual needs on the advantage and disadvantages of the corporate and the personal ownership will help to arrive at the best possible solution.

PERSONAL OWNERSHIP Pros: • Policy may provide creditor protection • The cash surrender value will not affect the enhanced capital gains exemption.

Cons: • Will require more after tax dollar to pay the premium, if personal tax rate is greater than corporate tax rate.

CORPORATE OWNERSHIP Pros: • Some of the premium may be deductible as a business expense.

• If corporate tax rate is less than personal tax rate then fewer after tax dollars to pay premium.

• If multiple policies are required, it is easier to administrate.

• Life insurance proceeds are added to the capital dividend account, which will enable a tax free dividend to be paid out to the shareholders.

• Provide funds to the corporation to continue operations until successor is found or business is sold.

• Provide funds to the corporation to purchase shares of the deceased shareholder.

Cons: • Not protected from corporate creditors.

• Future transfers of the policies may trigger a taxable gain or benefit.

• The cash surrender value may impact the access to the enhanced capital gains exemption.

Life insurance may not solve all your issues, but it may be an important part of your estate planning.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 23

ON INNOVATION THE INSIDE

RACE AGAINST THE CLOCK

THESE NIAGARA ENTREPRENEURS KNOW THAT TIME IS MONEY

BY JILL THAM

O

ne of the most gratifying aspects of being a writer for Rev Publishing is the opportunity to showcase Niagara’s finest. I have had the sheer pleasure of interviewing musicians, food bloggers, diner owners and Olympians. The perseverance of the exceptional individuals in our community never ceases to amaze me. For this series (On the Inside‌), I was swept away by the passion, business minds and good old-fashioned values of the entrepreneurs we will be featuring.

To work diligently and build a successful and original business is commendable; not to mention the stories of adversity. From the high school drop out to the entrepreneurs currently sleeping in their closet while their business undergoes renovations, these owners truly know what it means to get their hands dirty, chose quality over profit, and work exceedingly hard for every dollar they earn. What else can I say? Read on and experience another one of my proud Niagara stories. Each upcoming issue of Business will feature new innovative entrepreneurs, and I start the series here, with Sarah Fenn Thomas owner of Escape Room in Niagara Falls and Adam Murphy of Five Star Racing Products. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 25

SARAH FENN THOMAS OF

ROOM ESCAPE

You see it all the time, a group of friends or a family sitting together perhaps sharing a nice meal and a few laughs, but what are they doing? They are sitting there engrossed in their cell phones, texting or surfing the web. When was the last time you saw a family or a group of friends put down their devices and share in some quality fun? “Playing games together brings people together,� states Sarah Fenn Thomas, Owner of Escape Room Niagara. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 27

ESC Can you get out in 60 minutes? This is the burning question that is asked of participants when they arrive at Escape Room Niagara, an interactive game where participants follow a series of clues that will ultimately lead to a key hidden somewhere in the room that will open the door to the outside world.

This new wave of entertainment has existed in Europe and Asia for many years, yet it had not made its way to North America until recently. Fenn Thomas spent 14 years in Europe and Asia working as a producer and content writer in the gaming industry before returning to Niagara Falls to raise her son.

Getting her business off the ground was a challenge in the beginning for Fenn Thomas. “It was a hard sell. I had been in Hong Kong and wasn’t able to access funds, so I started the business with a lot of my husband’s savings,” says Fenn Thomas.

The next step for Fenn Thomas was to apply for financial support.

She received a small loan from a company to help with marketing and supplies. “They said I should meet Doug Fraser, community advocate and entrepreneur. I think they sent Doug to find out exactly what I was doing,” laughs Fenn Thomas.

Fraser was immediately impressed with Fenn Thomas’ creative approach to business and they became business partners. “I call her silver tongue Sarah, she is quick as a gazelle and doing very well. It usually takes 10 years for a business to break even, I think she will do it sooner,” states Fraser.

Escape Room Niagara opened its doors in June of 2014 with its first theme “The Attic,” which is ideal for a group of three to eight participants. Since then, their bookings calendar has been sold out, which has led to an expansion of the business to occupy a second location on Queen Street in downtown Niagara Falls.

This larger venue is equipped to host larger groups and corporate events with its two rooms, “The Castle” and “The Bunker.” “We have hit a perfect balance. Originally we could guarantee ‘The Attic’ was sold out every night and now it is split evenly three ways. They all cater to a different group,” says Fenn Thomas.

Some escape rooms across the province have a darker feel to them and although Fenn Thomas is not overly conservative in her selection of themes, she is conscious of her market and

CAPE THE TEAMBUILDING OPPORTUNITIES THAT ESCAPE ROOM NIAGARA OFFERS IS MENTALLY CHALLENGING AND VERY ACCESSIBLE; IT’S LIKE BEING IN A BOARD GAME.” -Amy Duffy

the reputation she would like to hold in the community. “With customers ranging from eight to eighty years of age, we make sure our games are stylish and fun, and playable by all people,” says Fenn Thomas.

A large portion of Fenn Thomas’ clientele is corporate team building. To better serve her customers, Fenn Thomas formed a partnership with Event Coordinator Amy Duffy from Amy Duffy Meetings and Events Inc. “I work a lot with the hotels and plan

corporate team building events when businesses are in town for a conference,” states Duffy. “The teambuilding opportunities that Escape Room Niagara offers is mentally challenging and very accessible; it’s like being in a board game,” adds Duffy.

When Fenn Thomas was working in the gaming world she didn’t always get to select her team. “We have eight local geniuses on our team now and everyone gets to put their spin on it. It becomes a collaborative process,” she explains. “We all get to play games for a living.”

Fenn Thomas finds a great deal of joy enabling people to experience something new. “It almost sounds cheesy, but we have the ability to bring people together and watch them have a fantastic time. It is gratifying,” states Fenn Thomas. “We are really conscious of the fact that we are getting a group of people together. We want to thank people for coming in and we don’t want to rush people in and out. We are not a turnstile,” states Fenn Thomas.

With the quick rise of the popularity of the activity in Canada, Fenn Thomas is realistic about the sustainability of the program.

“It has not peaked, we haven’t seen the turnover yet. Everyone in the escape room industry in Canada is less than one year in business. When we started planning there was only two rooms, now there are 39 escape rooms,” explains Fenn Thomas. “It is becoming its own genre.”

What will keep the program running is a creative edge which Fenn Thomas and her crew seem to have an abundance of. With movable walls and hidden trap doors throughout their games, it is easy to see why they are rated the number one attraction in Niagara according to Trip Advisor. “My clients are looking forward to what Fenn Thomas, Fraser and their team comes up with next,” states Duffy.

Choose your team wisely, put down your devices and take the challenge. You may not find the hidden key in 60 minutes, but you will find something that seems to be lost nowadays – good old fashioned fun.

To book a game visit www.escape and be sure to them on Facebook.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 29

PHOTO BY JDLOV.COM

ADAM MURPHY FIVE STAR RACING PRODUCTS The allure of stock car racing is something that intrigues both the spectator and the participant, yet very few people can relate to the adrenaline rush of putting together the perfect lap around a race track. “Racing is full of hazardous situations and you have to make rational decisions in a matter of seconds or split seconds. Basically, you are always on the ragged edge while driving at top speeds of 200 kilometres per hour,” states Adam Murphy, Owner and President of Five Star Racing Products in Niagara Falls, ON. Murphy, a graduate of Architectural Technology who spent his youth at the race track in Thorold, began racing mod-lite cars in 2005 after his window tinting company, Solaris Tint, began generating enough profit for him to pick up the sport. “My first year I bought a second hand trailer and a used race car,” recalls Murphy who immediately experienced success in the sport.

The following year, Murphy competed in various racing events throughout North America. He drove to Tennessee to purchase his first chassis, the internal frame on which the body of the car is mounted, and recalls thinking it was quite the hike to get what he needed. “At the time, no one in Canada was building frames. The racing market in North America was healthy, so why not

start building my own sprint and mod-lite chassis?” says Murphy.

In 2007, Murphy built his first chassis, a prototype, and started purchasing components for his frame from various suppliers in North America. “The border was always an issue when ordering parts from the United States. When the parts arrived, they look like they were just thrown in the box,” recalls Murphy. The answer to Murphy’s problem was simple - he began manufacturing his own parts and selling them along with his frames. Murphy’s parts are no more expensive than other manufacturers, but he sets himself apart from the competition because of the service that comes along with parts: he makes quality and presentation a priority. “I want the customer to know they are getting their money’s worth,” states Murphy.

Five Star Racing Products takes the time to bag, label and anodize their parts, the process where the raw aluminum is treated to prevent corrosion and enables dyeing, which is always the colour “Five Star black.” This is an added expense that Murphy doesn’t eliminate compared to some companies who send out raw materials. “Anything that is welded steel or chromoly is made in house at the shop in Niagara Falls, ON. >> TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 31

“

I LIKED THE LOOK OF ADAM’S PRODUCTS, BUT WHAT IMPRESSED ME THE MOST IS THAT HE ACTED LIKE A PIT CREW CHIEF TO EVERYONE” JASON CORLESS Machined air craft aluminum parts are outsourced,” he explains. “Everything is made as if I was putting it on my own car.”

Murphy’s first client, a 20 year veteran of the sport, raced to a second place season finish in Murphy’s frame, a mere four points behind the first place racer. With another successful year behind him and a solid reputation in the racing community, Murphy began to focus more on the geometrics of the cars he was building. “I had a few ideas of my own on how to modify the front end geometry of the frame. When you start altering those variables it changes how the car reacts on certain tracks,” he states.

What makes Murphy’s cars highly innovative are his geometrically altered front ends and the adjustability that is built within the chassis; resulting in a more consistent ride. “Most frames are 100 percent welded and have fixed shock locations. I can modify the frame with bolted in components and clamps making my pick up points adjustable.

No other manufacturer has done that,” explains Murphy.

“I liked the look of Adam’s products, but what impressed me the most is that he acted like a pit crew chief to everyone,” states Jason Corless, mod-lite race car driver. “Adam helped me with driving hints, parts and set up. He taught me the functions of the car and how to adjust it,

but what impressed me the most was that he helped me before I was running his product,” states Corless. “The sale is always second with him.”

Murphy worked diligently to custom build a race car for Corless that was designed to win. From moving the location of the car’s radiator to increase air flow to adjusting the location of Corless’ seat to provide him with more leg room and head clearance, no detail was overlooked. “You are always looking for the competitive edge,” states Murphy.

“With his assistance and products, I was winning races,” states Corless. “He asked for my input when he was trying to put it together. He is very receptive.” Corless reflects on his relationship with Five Star Racing Products, “Without Adam’s help I couldn’t have done it. He likes to go fast and he likes to help others go fast. He has never steered me wrong.”

There is a lot more to racing that just pressing the pedal to the floor and making turns: driving a race car takes technique, physical fitness and an ability to follow your instincts. “What you see outside is different from what you see or feel inside. It is nice to get both perspectives,” states Murphy. His experience on the track gives him the firsthand knowledge that he puts it into practise when building a race car.

Murphy ensures that his products always live up to the “Five Star” rating and his efforts in the racing community have not gone unnoticed. In 2012, he took home the award for Mechanic of the Year.

Five Star Racing Products is the only supplier of sprint car chassis in Canada and since 2007 his company has built more than 45 frames, with his biggest customer located in Australia. Murphy’s future goal is to see one of his frames running with a World of Outlaw Team.

For Murphy racing and building cars is more than a dedication, it's a way of life.

"It takes a lot of time, determination and sacrifice to succeed and do well. I have won races, but I always get more fulfilment from putting other people in my frames and watching them succeed. When I start out with a piece of raw material, bend it, weld it and then watch someone competing in my chassis, it gives me a sense of gratification and accomplishment. I get goose bumps every time,” explains Murphy. After three years off the track, this summer Murphy will get behind the wheel once again.

To follow #28 and his racing season visit fivestarracingproducts.ca or follow him on Twitter @5StarRacing.

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REVITALIZING NIAGARA’S DOWNTOWNS

BY JILL THAM

Downtown communities are the key ingredient of any great city.

Yet, over the years there has been a decline in foot traffic as customers were lured away, first by shopping malls located on the out skirts of town and now by big box stores.

For many individuals a stroll down the main street of the heart of their community brings back fond memories of shopping, entertainment and dining. If you grew up in Niagara Falls you clearly remember shopping at Rosbergs Department Store. St. Catharines fondly recalls Diana Sweets and Thorold reminisces about the Bright Spot Restaurant.

Downtown communities are in need of revitalization now more than ever. After all, a dynamic downtown is a crucial part of a growing city.

Three Mayors were questioned regarding their plan to rejuvenate their downtown cores. Three different communities with three unique approaches. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 35

BANK ON IT HAPPENING! IT’S GOING TO BE EXCITING. I CAN ALREADY SEE WHAT IT IS GOING TO BE LIKE; IF YOU COULD GET INTO MY HEAD YOU WOULD BE EXCITED TOO.”

WHAT ARE NIAGARA FALL’S PLANS TO REVITALIZE THE DOWNTOWN CORE?

MAYOR JIM DIODATI CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS

“Aggressively, we brought in an outside consultant. We put forward a strategic plan to focus on post-secondary registration and entrepreneurship. We are going to create a hybrid. Instead of graduating and looking for a job, we want them to get their graduation in one hand and their business in the other. A century ago you didn’t wait for the job to come to you, you created your own. This educational institution will be the core.

Rather than coming to the core they will be living and working in it. Not just visiting it.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK HAS BEEN AN ISSUE FOR BUSINESSES IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA? “Currently there is no anchor, no major draw to the downtown.

What’s old is new again. People have become anti-franchise in some ways. They want the one offs and they don’t want to shop at a store that is exactly like everything else. They are not shopping for needs they are shopping for wants - they want the experience. We will put in the major bones that will appeal to the masses. I am confident we are on the right track and will be very successful.”

WHAT TYPES OF BUSINESSES WILL THRIVE IN THE DOWNTOWN? “Everything - A place to get your hair cut, grocery stores, restaurants and lots of unique retail stores. We have the rail, the bus, city hall, and lots of professionals. The Go Train is another piece that will impact on the plan. We are laser focused and we have done our homework. We went looking for clues and we spent years researching and investigating. We went to Pittsburgh to see how they reinvested and how they went from rough belt to renaissance. Downtown Niagara Falls will become hip like Queen Street West in Toronto.”

FINAL COMMENTS FROM MAYOR DIODATI “You want to bet on something, bet on the downtown core.

It will be a good bet. We don’t want people that are going to watch the game, we want people that are going to play the game and help bring vision and investment. What we are asking for is all hands on deck and everyone will benefit from the high tide that will raise all boats. We believe it will happen swiftly and quickly and downtown will be a cool place to be.”

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WHAT ARE THOROLD’S PLANS FOR REVITALIZING THE DOWNTOWN AREA? “The new streetscape Master Plan, which will come to council for approval in the next few months, will see the City make improvements to sidewalks, lighting, parking and other amenities to assist in our downtown’s continuing evolution and growth. The city will also see a major medical clinic open in the near future offering services Thorold residents haven’t had access to locally for some time. Plans for the future include building on the current successes, offering innovative and realistic services and amenities for visitors and residents.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK HAS POSED AN ISSUE FOR BUSINESSES IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA? “Resolving parking concerns – including availability and accessibility for downtown residents and our thriving businesses is a priority for this council. As of this moment, council will be asked to approve the membership for an adhoc Parking Advisory Committee comprised of volunteer stakeholders who will be tasked with developing options that council can consider this year. We anticipate a resolution soon.

No matter what, I want to see the Thorold tradition of free parking continue in the future.”

ARE THERE ANY TYPES OF PUBLIC POLICY THAT AFFECT IMPROVEMENTS TO THE DOWNTOWN? “Planning and heritage are major factors in Thorold’s downtown; but we’re also thinking forward. The BIA (Business Improvement Area) will be offering charging stations for electric vehicles, for example. And the BIA undertook a partnership with Thorold Secondary School, where tech students designed and fabricated unique bike-lock stations for Front Street and downtown. There’s so much opportunity for partnerships like this.”

FINAL COMMENTS FROM MAYOR LUCIANI “Thorold is one of the only municipalities in Niagara with large parcels of residents and industrial land outside the Greenbelt that are still available for development. When, not if, but when daily GO service comes to Niagara, those who have had the foresight to invest now will likely find they are in the right place at the right time.”

MAYOR TED LUCIANI CITY OF THOROLD

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“THE IMPACT WILL BE A RIPPLE EFFECT THAT WILL LAST FOR A GENERATION.”

WHAT FACTORS HAVE PROMPTED THE REVITALIZATION PLAN FOR ST. CATHARINES?

MAYOR WALTER SENDZIK CITY OF ST. CATHARINES

“The previous council initiated the creative cluster plan that identified if investments were made into the arts, it could become a catalyst for future economic growth and bring traffic to downtown St. Catharines. Within that came, through a fortune of good events and good planning, the opportunity to build a new arena, performing arts centre and relocate the Marilyn Walker School to the downtown. If you look at any successful downtown revitalization plan in North America it includes these public buildings that attract arts and sports.

And with the expansion of products from the Performing Arts Centre and Meridian Centre there are year round reasons to come to our downtown.”

HOW MANY JOBS WILL BE CREATED WITH THESE TWO VENUES? “Brock University and the City of St. Catharines are partnering, so with the move of the Marilyn Walker School from Brock University’s campus some jobs are spoken for. The core is not the new jobs created, but the attraction to people downtown.

For example, The Tragically Hip concert sold out at 6000. The impact will be in the tens of millions of dollars.”

HOW DOES PARKING AFFECT THE DOWNTOWN? “A brand new parking garage has been constructed across from the Performing Arts Centre as well as another new parking lot by the Meridian Centre. We have available parking spaces on the street. We are encouraging people to take a taxi downtown or use public transit and not have to worry about driving home. I have to give credit to the St. Catharines Public Transit. If you get on the bus two hours before the game you get on and off for free.”

FINAL COMMENTS FROM MAYOR SENDZIK “City staff have done a very good job in creating the conditions for what is going to be one of the best downtowns in Ontario because of the livability of the space. We have a safe downtown and it’s getting its groove back. It’s not just a St. Catharines downtown, it’s a Niagara downtown. The investments that have been made are a benefit to all of Niagara. Whether you live in Port Colborne, Niagara-on-the-Lake or Welland, what we have done has added to that compliment. Strong downtowns will make Niagara a strong community.”

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Built to Last

The list of masters behind Buffalo’s most beautiful buildings and neighborhoods reads like a “Who’s Who” of some of history’s greatest architects: Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Stanford White, Eliel & Eero Saarinen, Henry Hobson Richardson, Frederick Law Olmsted. Buffalo’s extraordinary collection of architecture and urban design is a proud reminder of the city’s heyday and a catalyst for its renaissance. Explore Buffalo’s vast outdoor museum of American treasures on one of our many five-star house and walking tours.

Buffalo has one of the most extraordinary concert halls in the United States. A gift to the city from a deeply generous music-loving family whose name graces the building, Kleinhans Music Hall combines elegant simplicity with vibrant acoustics. Once new seating is installed to celebrate the hall’s 75th Anniversary in October 2015, it will comfortably seat 2,400 people while making each person feel the concert is being played for them alone.

JOANN FALLETTA, MUSIC DIRECTOR, BUFFALO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

DARWIN MARTIN HOUSE

CINDY KINCAIDE

Buffalo seems to be built of the Wright stuff.

Spread throughout the city are a collection of homes and buildings – some that were only dreams of architect Frank Lloyd Wright – that in some way rivals the cluster in the Chicago area.

PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW

I guarantee that this will be the strangest, most unusual tour bus you will ever have the pleasure of riding. Built from a vintage school bus and retrofitted to be sans-roof, the Open-Air Autobus sports leopard-print seats and has some of the most enthusiastic architectural tour guides this side of the Erie Canal.

DESIGN SPONGE

A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W

BUFFALO CITY HALL TOURS

“Wonderful tour” BUFFALO AERIAL PICTURES

This beautiful art deco building is a treasure. Our guide was full of information and anecdotes.

View from the observation deck is amazing!”

Reviewed by SkanLaker, a TripAdvisor traveler Skaneateles, NY » September 22, 2014

A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S GRAYCLIFF ESTATE

“What genius” “If you are going to visit the Darwin Martin House, be sure to take some time to drive to Graycliff. We purchased in-depth tours for both properties before we traveled to Buffalo and I would recommend doing this.”

Reviewed by don9290, a TripAdvisor traveler » Minneapolis, MN » October 1, 2013 NANCY VARGO

In 1898, as boats came in and out of Port Colborne through the third Welland Canal, Omer L. Steele saw an opportunity to make a living. “My great great uncle Omer began selling insurance on the boilers of the boats that shuttled the lake boats and canallers,” states Bill Steele, Owner and President of C.M. Steele Insurance Brokers.

Over 100 years later and C.M. Steele insurance is still a driving force for reliable insurance in the Niagara Region.

Over the years, C.M. Steele became a full service insurance company. Charles, Bill’s Father, took over the business in 1940. “My father was in university when he got the call asking, ‘Does Chuck want it?’ He quit school and came home to get his insurance licence,” explains Bill. In 1945 Chuck enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force and served as a fighter pilot for six years. Hanging proudly on the wall in the conference room of C.M. Steele is a plaque granting Mervin Steele, Chuck’s father, permission to keep the business going in his absence. “My grandfather signed on behalf of my dad until he returned from the war,” explains Bill.

Business continued to flourish for the Steele family in their office along the fourth and current canal. “My dad took a partner in 1976. I have been with the business since 1982. My dad retired

ten years later, so I was able to work with him. I am the sole owner now,” explains Bill. Bill’s son, Mackenzie Steele, has been working alongside his father for the past year learning the ropes, thus guaranteeing that the business will remain a family run business.

“My niece, Vanessa Coers, started with us as a high school student and is still with us today,” states Bill. “With our family being in Port Colborne since shortly after the revolution, having our family continue with the business is special.”

From cottages to wineries and farms, C.M. Steele has a diverse portfolio of clients with personal and commercial needs. “We can write anything anywhere in Ontario and we sell all types of insurance. We are a full operating insurance company that can take on larger risks,” states Bill. “We could insure a cottage or boat or airplane if we had to.” C.M. Steele also has access to American sales. “If you own property, liability, sell or ship to the U.S.A., or have a subsidiary in the U.S.A. we can insure that,” adds Bill.

Superior customer service and competitive pricing have remained the key objectives of C.M. Steele’s business model for many decades. “Our office staff is our biggest asset. How we deal with our clients and the companies themselves are our top priority,”

BY JILL THAM

MY GREAT, GREAT UNCLE OMER BEGAN SELLING INSURANCE ON THE BOILERS OF THE BOATS THAT SHUTTLED THE LAKE BOATS AND CANALLERS, –BILL STEELE OWNER AND PRESIDENT OF C.M. STEELE INSURANCE BROKERS.

WRITTEN BY JILL THAM PHOTO BY DAVID HASKELL states Bill. “Our staff work with the client to give them a package that meets their needs. We don’t try to over sell or under sell,” adds Bill. “We give a good product at a good price.”

Todd Shoalts, President of Lester Shoalts Limited Property Management and Construction, has remained a client with C.M. Steele for over 40 years. “From our perspective, it is important to deal with a local family run company who looks after you and your company. Customer service is better because of it,” states Shoalts.

“Bill is always looking out for the best interest of my company. He is a trustworthy insurance broker.”

For over 100 years the Steele family has been very active in the community. “My grandfather started the Port Colborne Lions Club and my father was a Shriner. My oldest son coaches minor hockey and we try to do as much charity work as possible,” says Bill. The company is a supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Niagara, specifically in sponsor of the Ontario General Hockey Tournament. “People like to see the businesses they deal with do good things in the community and for 100 years we have been doing that. We are out there,” adds Bill.

This year C.M. Steele was prestigiously voted one of Canada’s

top ten insurance brokers by Insurance Business Canada Magazine with top rankings in the categories of New Brokers and New Clients per Broker. Insurance Business Canada Magazine is very specific in their selection criteria. Their scoring system is designed to ensure that the top performing brokers were acknowledged based on a high quality of service and not mass production of sales.

“To be quite honest, I wouldn’t change the freedom I have being a business owner. When I was eighteen years old, I turned down a full time job at General Motors and at one point I had an RCMP application completed. I picked insurance because I want to be my own boss, have a staff, and continue my family’s business. I am glad I made the choice I did. It’s been a great choice,” states Bill.

C.M Steele’s ability to remain versatile while also being dependable, has garnered them a reputation in the community as a pillar in the insurance business. “We are not the largest insurance company by any means. Our success really stems from our exceptional staff and loyal clients,” states Bill. It is easy to see why C.M. Steele has remained the foundation for insurance brokerage in the community for over 100 years and will continue to do so for many more. TM TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 45

COVER STORY

FORGED from STEELE

NANCY J. PARISI

Buffalo’s Road to the White House Step up to the bar at Founding Father’s Pub and order a cold one. As you admire

the presidential memorabilia that lines every square inch of the walls, consider this: before Grover Cleveland landed two non-consecutive terms as president, he served as mayor of Buffalo. Millard Fillmore, the 13th POTUS, built a humble country home in nearby East Aurora on his road to the White House. From the the end of William McKinley’s presidency to the beginning of Theodore Roosevelt’s, Buffalo’s ties to presidential history run surprisingly deep. Drink it in.

A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W

THEODORE ROOSEVELT INAUGURAL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

“Wonderful bit of history” “A must see if you’re a history buff. This home where Teddy was inaugurated was spectacular to see. Lots of interactives and the tour guide was fantastic. He gave the tour as if we were present at the time of McKinley’s passing. It was so informative and it did actually feel as if you were in the moment! I found it lovely and authentic.”

Reviewed by 59galtraveler, a TripAdvisor traveler » Palmyra, WI » September 23, 2014

KC KRATT

A real bar in a real town.

A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W

MILLARD FILLMORE HOUSE

“A place not to be missed!”

Reviewed by liffick, a TripAdvisor traveler Davenport, IA » July 26, 2014

FOUNDING FATHERS PUB FIVE STARS ON YELP

Incredibly decorated with presidents’ portraits, flags, and mirrors.

The place felt like a history book. A real bar in a real town.

Highly recommended.

Mike T., Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA

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ED HEALY

“My wife and I live in Iowa, and we love to travel to historic places, particularly presidential residences.

Knowing that we were going to be in Niagara Falls, we decided to arrange a tour of the Millard Fillmore House.

East Aurora is a town that embraces its history, and we found that most refreshing.

We found the town to be beautiful and welcoming.

If you really love American history, don’t pass this one by!”

FOLLOW YOUR

INSTI Taste, see, hear, smell and touch are our five physical senses. But we also have one more sense that is rarely talked about or truly understood. It is the most powerful of all the senses and it is referred to as our sixth sense. When used in business it is the sense that differentiates the leaders from the followers. It is the sense that evokes creativity, problem solving and innovation; and it is the sense that will always guide us to make the right decision to reach our goals.

Our five senses are part of the physical world but our sixth sense is something that is part of our spiritual being. We all have a sixth sense, whether we choose to listen to it or tap into it is another story. We often hear successful people refer to the sixth sense as a gut feeling, an intuitive feeling, or an instinct. Whatever you choose to call it doesn’t matter; it is that feeling or sensation you get when you just know something—without really knowing how you know it. It comes from one source, and that is our higher self. The higher self does not make mistakes, but it also does not interfere with the conscious mind or our free will. It can assist us with many things, but we must ask it to assist us, because our conscious mind has the power to accept or reject the higher self.

The sixth sense is there to assist us in our journey, and if we pay attention to it, we will learn things in life the easy way. We have all been in situations where someone wanted us to do something that didn’t feel right, and an inner sensation or voice inside shouted out, “no, don’t do it!” We have all at least once in our lifetime, if not many times, ignored that inner voice. We went ahead and did what it was telling us not to do and then we regretted it. That sensation

LIFESTYLE & CULTURE

NCT

By Flavio Iammarino, Ph.D, C.Cht

or gut feeling came from our higher self and it knows what is best for us as individuals.

How many times have you ignored your gut feeling and later paid the price? You must understand that the higher self is able to see the future and the result of our decisions or actions. If the outcome it sees is good it will give you a good feeling in your gut but if the outcome it sees is bad it will give you a bad feeling to warn you about your action and the result of it. This is pretty powerful stuff!

I have experienced many different lessons in my life—some I have learned the easy way and some the hard way. There were many times I would say, “God stop teaching me the hard way,” until one day I had a golfer in my office and out of the blue he said, “Flavio, I’m tired of learning things the hard way.” I quickly responded: “Start listening to your gut feeling, intuition or instinct and then you will learn the easy way.” And from that statement my own light bulb went on. What came to my conscious mind was to follow what I was teaching others.

Imagine for a moment that everyone has access to the perfect radar or GPS that is able to guide us through life and it never makes mistakes. It is always accurate, and if you listen to it, and follow its direction, everything you do will always be 100% right. Would you use it? Most of you would probably say, “yes, of course!” The thing is, we all do have this internal GPS but we often choose to ignore it.

The ones that truly listen to it will benefit in their life. Others who choose to ignore it may have been taught some limiting beliefs to feel bad about certain things, so they ignore what their

gut feeling tells them to do in certain situations. These people will have a difficult time listening to their gut feeling because they will always be doing things to please others rather than following their own inner voice. When you ignore your gut feeling and let your limited and false beliefs get in your way you limit your own growth. Remember, your gut feeling knows what is best for you, and if you follow it you will lead the life that you were meant to live.

Following your instinct will make your life easier and more peaceful. For your own well being, pay attention to that instinct or gut feeling and only listen to it no matter what—even if someone else is trying to change your mind. A person that truly respects you will support and understand your decisions in life. The ones that have no respect for you and are selfish will try to convince you through guilt and other negative emotions to do things that you do not want to do. It is never right to violate your beliefs for the sake of someone else.

The actions or decisions we make in our career, and in all aspects of our life, should not be determined by our values and beliefs but by our instinct. Our values and beliefs are taught and may not support us, but our instinct is our inner voice that always knows what is best for us. Successful people have mastered the ability to trust and follow their instinct because they know that it will always lead them down the right path.

For more information on this topic, or for career counseling or mental coaching, please visit our web-site at askflavio.ca or call our office at 905-684 -1717.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 49

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WITH EPIC GOLF CONCEPTS

The crowning

achievement for any golfer is that elusive, once in a lifetime (probably, let’s be realistic), holein-one. And, of all the glorious sports moments that deserve to be caught on video, a hole-in-one is pretty high up on the list. So imagine you were lucky enough to have been blessed by the gods of the green (or incredibly skilled); aside from bragging rights (assuming there are witnesses that is) that epic shot can also garner you the chance to win anywhere from $1000 to $1 million dollars. Sound implausible? Get your driver out, because Epic Golf Concepts is ready to give you a chance to make that dream a reality.

As Epic Golf Concepts puts it, they are “an innovative, automatically-run hole-in-one competition format that adds an exciting dimension to today’s golf experience without compromising the tradition of the game.”

You’ll find the Epic Golf team set up at courses around Niagara, and the idea is simple: a suitable hole has been predetermined, with one camera set up at the beginning of the hole, and one camera at the pin. As golfers approach, they are handed a card with a code on it. Their shot is recorded, and when they email Epic Golf with their code, they receive a clip of their shot. And if that shot just so happens to be a hole-in-one, well, the golfer wins the prize and gets evidence of their golf glory that will last a lifetime. Once you have the video it’s yours to do with it what you will. Share the incredible footage on various social media channels or play it in a loop in the background for your less fortunate golfing buddies (Go ahead, you’ve earned it.)

The man behind Epic Golf Concepts, Frank Maddalena, said

the idea came to him about eight years ago after a conversation with a friend, who was telling him of a golf course in Tennessee, where you put a token in a machine at a specific hole, and it would record your shot. You could then win a prize, and pick up your video at the clubhouse. While that particular system is no longer in use, Maddalena decided to build on that idea, but make it more high tech. He sees this idea as a win for everyone involved: himself, the golfer and the golf courses.

The passion behind this idea grew from a lifelong love of the game, which Maddalena explains, saying, “I love golf. Golf is a great game. I’ll be able to play it at 80 years old; as long as I can swing the club, I can play. It’s an individual challenge. That’s what I like about golf. Running this business is about doing something that I enjoy. On the golf course, everyone is in a good mood.”

Since competition is high, many golf courses are looking for ways to entice people to play with them, says Maddalena, and since it’s at no cost to the golfer, why wouldn’t they choose a course that also gives them the opportunity to win money for what they were going to do anyway? Everything is included in the green fee. So if the weather is good, look for Epic Golf Concepts at golf courses throughout the Region and take your shot - cause they’re taking yours!

You can find a schedule of where Epic Golf Concepts will be on their website at epicgolfconcepts.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/ pages/Epic-Golf-Concepts. Informations is updated regularly as new events are added.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 51

MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY for CLUB ITALIA

BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN

Celebrating a milestone anniversary for the Italian community, Niagara’s finest multi-cultural events location Club Italia has entered 2015 with big events and expansions on the horizon for the historic club.

Dedicated to uniting, promoting and assisting the public through a common bond of friendship and respect, Club Italia has successfully fostered a tight-knit community for over 35 years; providing both large recreational facilities and programs meant to encourage both economic and social growth within the Niagara Region.

"We have to help the community in any way that we can," said Joe Maggiolo, president of Club Italia and member since 1995.

"Our club has always been a big supporter of the community alongside our commitment to maintaining the Italian heritage.”

Formed in 1977, Club Italia originated as the result of copious support from the Italian community and the merge of two prominent clubs in Niagara Falls: the Juventus Sportive Association, a local sports club, and the Marconi Lodge, the original Order Sons of Italy charter in the region. Following years of development, the club was granted the Order Sons of Italy in 1984, joining 14 other charters within Canada and becoming part of North America’s oldest and largest order.

What began as a small pavilion on a 16 acre parcel of land on the outskirts of Niagara Falls has since grown into an 800 member, multi-million dollar complex consisting of large banquet halls, meeting rooms, a lounge and multiple sport terrains including an indoor five lane bocce field, tennis courts and manicured outdoor soccer fields.

"It's our pride and joy," said Maggiolo. "We have some dedicated Italians here. The main key behind our roots is soccer and Italian culture."

With Niagara’s saturation of event halls and wedding venues, many sites have struggled to stay at the top over the years. But Club Italia continues to maintain their primary spot by offering unique packages, creative freedom, accessibility and vast space for every style and size of event.

"When we first opened we were by far the biggest hall around," said Maggiolo. "But today, there are so many hotels and wineries that offer halls – with our large hotel industry everyone has banquet halls and now it is saturated so that people have a bigger choice.

But we attract a lot because of our size and our ample free parking."

Ample size is an understatement; ideal for corporate events, charity fundraisers and weddings, the versatile Grand Ballroom holds up to 600 people for a seated dinner or 1200 people for a theatre style event. Maggiolo said they can accommodate any style of occasion and allow organizers creative freedom where the sky is the limit.

“There isn't anything we can't do," said Maggiolo. "Your imagination can run free here and we will never turn away any event. We have the space to support creative themed corporate events and weddings.

"One of our big supporters had a rock and roll theme. They gutted all the chairs and had stations – old rock and roll booths, an antique car and people on rollerblades. We have had weddings where they will bring in a carriage they could barely get through the doors and massive ice sculptures. We don't hold back."

Club Italia as well offers their smaller Marconi Room – ideal for intimate events – and outdoor facilities underneath their gazebo

which have become a popular venue for ethnic events and Hindu weddings; allowing groups to bring in their own chefs and teams - a rarity not usually permitted by large venues.

The club’s sports facilities are also open to the public and available for corporate events. Currently Club Italia hosts multiple Bocce and soccer leagues for all ages.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Order Sons of Italy of Canada. In conjunction with the other Canadian charters, Club Italia hosted the auspicious nationwide event with a gala May 29-31. The weekend saw plenty of action throughout the region, with conferences and networking opportunities for community members to connect and celebrate.

Formed in New York City in 1905 by Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro and a network of Italian immigrants, the order was created with the aim of building a support system for Italian immigrants looking to build a new life in North America. The group did not see it fit to continue treating themselves as sub-nationalities of the Italian Peninsula and decided to dedicate themselves to assisting other Italian immigrants with becoming American citizens in order to help build a richer and more cultured country. The group would provide health and death benefits, educational opportunities and assimilation assistance.

Since inauguration, the order has established free schools to teach immigrants English, provided orphanages, homes for the elderly, supported war efforts and raised over $163 million dollars for education programs, disaster relief, cultural advancement and medical research.

"When the Italians came here in the early 1900s, they had a

hard life and they were trying to help each other," said Maggiolo.

"So they formed this unique group of individuals who would help members of the Italian community. They helped everything from information, getting your papers done, and that’s how this order started – it’s fairly unique."

Club Italia has upheld the values of the historic order with great pride, dedicating their time to philanthropic endeavors –supporting both local youth soccer team development and medical innovation.

"We really try to keep it local," said Maggiolo. "We really focus on our Niagara Falls area - especially the big charitable organizations, we like to support.

"Our number one supporter is the hospital. We have always been looking out for them,” said Maggiolo. We have given out roughly $500,000 dollars to expand the hospitals and increase their technology."

Maggiolo said the club is currently working on another pledge to help raise money for new CT Scan technology. They are also looking to develop their back 15 acres into a seniors facility in the near future – expanding on the veteran and elderly community fostered within their members lounge.

“It is a wonderful community place for the elderly,” said Maggiolo. We have a lot of widowers where after their husbands or wives passed, they would come here and congregate and it’s a release valve for them to really keep it going because some of them really get down in the dumps. But they have a perfect opportunity to come here.”

For more information on hosting an event at Club Italia or becoming a member, please visit clubitalia.ca.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 53

CABO C A N T I N A

FRESH. FUN. FIESTA.

BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN PHOTOS A.J. HARLOND A new retreat for pure food indulgence has moved into the entertainment district of Niagara Falls. Cabo Cantina is serving up traditional Mexican cuisine and Latina infused entertainment at its finest. But Cabo Cantina is anything but your conventional Mexican restaurant – introducing a city dominated by chain restaurants to an entertaining dining experience executed with creativity, life and finesse.

Filling a niche in Niagara’s culinary and entertainment scene, the 300-occupant restaurant boasts a trendy contemporary atmosphere, unique live entertainment, outdoor patio and twists on classic Mexican dishes; all marrying in a welcoming atmosphere that has the ability to appeal to every individual and taste bud.

“We all thought there was something missing in Niagara,” said world-renowned Chef Olivier JansenReynaud, the head chef and a co-owner of Cabo Cantina. “[Our family] all agreed there was a niche to be filled. There was a void for a good, Mexican, family oriented restaurant with great live entertainment.” >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 55

“

WHERE A LOT OF OTHERS WILL CUT CORNERS AND NOT USE AUTHENTIC INGREDIENTS, WITH US, EVERYTHING IS AUTHENTIC.” Chef Jansen-Reynaud

Taking cues from energetic Las Vegas lounges and restaurants, the family team has fashioned a well-rounded live experience for patrons to simultaneously enjoy authentic Latin infused music, modern Mexican cuisine and even an educational lesson on tequila if they so choose.

“We want to sell people an experience,” said Chef Jansen-Reynaud.

“It is not just a meal. We want people to come back time after time after time.”

The result is the collaborative effort of four creative minds that have taken Niagara’s entertainment and culinary scene by storm in recent years. Cabo Cantina’s owners Chef Jansen-Reynaud and Veronica Rudan alongside their family and business partners Jonny Boz, Nightclub Operator at Club Seven Nightclub and Ghost Bar in Niagara Falls and Milica Rudan, have each added their rich culinary and business backgrounds towards creating Cabo Cantina’s unique presence and design.

Inspired by Mexico’s celebrated holiday Day of the Dead, the Rudan sisters along with Julie from the Ker Design Group vowed to stay away from the stereotypical Mexican symbolism more traditionally found in Canadian Mexican restaurants and collaborated to create a design esthetic that reflects today’s more modern take on Mexican culture. From sugar skull wallpaper to the hand-picked custom furniture and fixtures they had delivered straight from stores in Mexico, their design esthetic flows effortlessly, enhancing and complimenting the food and overall vibe.

Just like the interior design, the menus are fresh and uncomplicated.

A combination of Mexican classics and updated mainstream dishes, customers are given the opportunity to enjoy their favourite classics like hand-blended guacamole made tableside and AAA ground beef tacos alongside soon to be favourites like sea scallops, lime-Caesar dressing and diverse larger plates. Like all of Chef Jansen-Reynaud’s dishes, everything will be big on flavour but with a twist.

“Guacamole is guacamole but with Olivier’s you will be able to add mango and pork rinds and habanero peppers and bacon,” said Milica.

“His forte has always been taste. All his food just really tastes good.”

Chef Jansen-Reynaud stresses the menu will not feature the usual deep-fried heavy dishes, but focus in on authentic and basic flavours from Mexico and the South West; utilizing the finest traditional spices, sauces and salsas made in house.

“We are going to use traditional spices, original Mexican oregano, chilies from Mexico, that will add a depth of flavour to dishes,” said Chef Jansen-Reynaud. “Where a lot of others will cut corners and not use authentic ingredients, with us, everything is authentic.”

Though Chef Jansen-Reynaud’s culinary background and past experiences have stemmed in French and Mediterranean cuisine – he is both the Chef and owner of the famous Clafouti Patisserie et Café in Toronto (the birth place of the Crookie) and the new Marilyn’s Bistro and Lounge in Niagara Falls – it is Mexican cuisine that stays close to his heart in his personal kitchen at home. It was only suitable that he introduced his own flair for the cuisine to Niagara.

“I am always cooking Mexican at home,” said Chef JansenReynaud. “We have travelled a lot throughout the South West, Arizona, Sedona, Mexico City. Veronica’s first husband is from Mexico and we went to visit her son’s grandmother and she took us to all of these funky markets where you are having pork for breakfast and tortillas and true Mexican so the inspiration started like that.”

“You could stay in your comfort zone and say ‘Oh I am always going to do French and stick with the Bistro and that is easy’ but when you do something different, you are pushing yourself to grow and get better as a person,” said Chef Jansen-Reynaud.

Continuing to separate Cabo Cantina away from the crowd will be the music and entertainment promised to serenade patrons throughout their meal; hosting Mariachi bands and a live DJ on weekends to spin Latin influenced table music and local favourites.

“We wanted people to have a live experience, to have someone actually mixing the music like you would see at a high-end lounge,” said Boz. “A couple can have an appetizer and a cocktail, dance at the table a little bit and enjoy some live music in the background,” said Veronica.

“We wanted it to have something for everyone.”

Prices are incredibly reasonable for a fashionable new place, with side dishes and appetizers averaging between $5-$15 dollars, tacos $12-$18 dollars for three and main dishes all under $30 dollars. A late night menu and kids menu will also be offered at different points throughout the evening.

The food is not the only thing on the menu that will have you returning to Cabo Cantina time and again. Their extensive bar menu boasts innovative cocktails crafted by an in-house mixologist, Mexican classics like margaritas and a separate tequila tasting bar guided by the only Tequila Masters in Ontario and one of two in all of Canada.

“The drink menu reflects a bit of the food,” said Chef JansenReynaud. “It is eclectic, you have your traditional margaritas and cocktails, but it has been pushed by having between 50-60 tequilas and each drink is based on that tequila.”

The tequila tasting bar will also be available for reservation by private parties who wish to have a guided tasting tour and education on tequila.

Though theme nights are not yet set and will evolve organically with time, Boz guarantees that whatever the theme nights evolve into, they will keep one common trend: it will be lively.

“We want to give people a value for their dollar and a restaurant with entertainment,” said Boz. Though success may sit at the forefront, the owners all agree that their overall goal is to make both tourists and locals alike feel welcome, catering to both their individual needs when in Niagara Falls.

“We want the tourists to feel like locals and the locals to come and not feel like tourists,” said Veronica. “At the end of the day, we want everyone to enjoy some incredible food, dance and have a great evening – and hopefully want to come back again and again.”

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“YOUR ADVOCATES FOR FITNESS, TRAINING AND WELL BEING” Sheri Cirillo has been in the fitness world for over a decade now, and this passion for fitness has recently led to the opening of Your Fit NRG, a unique and progressive gym located in the Four Points Sheraton in Niagara Falls. And while Sheri has owned and operated a custom private studio in the past, with Your Fit NRG, Sheri notes, “I was ready to spread my wings and grow with a team of fitness, health and wellness professionals…in [the] expanded studios, there are 25 employees to share their expertise and passion for healthy living with the community.”

Sheri (and her staff ) are huge proponents of healthy living… and it is not just about exercise; it’s about a whole lifestyle. Your Fit NRG has several partners in the nutrition community to help make the gym a well-rounded service. One of these partnerships is Fit to Eat, run by nutritionist Laura Discepola. Together, they developed nutrition packaging, which includes both nutrition consulting and healthy meal catering. Another such partnership is with C.C. Swirls, which is also located in the Four Points, and who Your Fit NRG has partnered with to provide protein shakes and fresh juices.

Sheri states, “nutrition is the secret to a healthy life. What we eat or don’t eat and when we eat or don’t, directly affects our quality of life, no matter how much you exercise or don’t exercise.” She continues on to say, “it really is a lifestyle and one that I practice so it comes very natural for me to share with those who are looking to hear and learn. It is my pleasure to educate and help people plan and live their healthy life!”

Another highly unique thing about Your Fit NRG, is that they are the only gym in the entire Region that offers a Real Ryder Indoor

Cycle Studio. Sheri says, “I was introduced to the Real Ryder bikes about four years ago at the Canfit Pro Conference, and I knew that when I expanded my studios, these were the bikes I needed to get.”

Real Ryder International explains, “the Real Ryder Indoor Cycling bike is like no other indoor bike on the planet. Our unique, patented, articulating frame technology lets the rider (any rider from novice to pro) fully engage their body and mind in a one-of-a-kind tactile, dynamic and functional riding experience.” Essentially, these bikes function as indoor bikes that ride like outdoor bikes, so they are perfect for more inclement weather or during the winter months when you can’t get out on the road. This is something all together different than a stationary bike: the Real Ryder bikes turn, tilt and lean, which mimic riding on the road. Your Fit NRG is home to 20 of these bikes, which are used for group classes.

Classes are offered not only for the Real Ryder bikes, but also in the areas of yoga, tabata, boot camp and mommy and me.

One of the many great things about Your Fit NRG, is that if you don’t want to commit to being a member, you can purchase group fitness passes, personal training and nutrition and wellness packages at your leisure. There is also a drop in rate if you don’t feel like buying a package is for you, and it’s a great way to try out the classes before making a full commitment. Unlike many other gyms, at Your Fit NRG, there is no long-term commitment, and no cancellation fees.

Additionally, Your Fit NRG, offers personal training, an athlete training program for both teams and individual athletes and corporate wellness programs, perfect for “companies that want to encourage their employees to make their health a priority.” Companies get a 13% discount. Your Fit NRG also offers corporate fitness, nutrition and wellness seminars, noting that, “the health of your employees directly affects the culture, productivity and bottom line of a company. Investing in the education of optimal health for your employees is a priority to ensure a healthy thriving business.”

Your Fit NRG is open seven days a week, from 6am to 11pm, and offer dozens of classes every week. Free parking is available on site, and flexible payment options are available. More information is available at yourfitnrg.ca

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 61

A Taste of Italy in Every Bite

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

Located in Hilton Hotel & Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview, directly across from Fallsview Casino Resort.

6361 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3V9 pranzoniagara.com | 905-353-7174 | facebook.com/pranzoniagara Complimentary parking for dining guests.

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NIAGARA BREWING COMPANY GRAND OPENING 1. Dino Dicienzo Jr., Dino Dicienzo Sr., Wayne Thomson, Wayne Gates, Chris Mason. DEB SLADE’S GRAND FAREWELL AT BROCK CENTRE FOR THE ARTS 2. Debbie Slade & Luke McMaster. BELLABALAS.COM FASHION SHOW 3. Model Kait Horne 4. Betty Lou Souterand & Kim Rossi 5. Sylvia Grottola & Alexandra Mills 7. Daria Zmiyiwsky, Carrie Zeffiro & Brenda Horth Grant.

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American Treasures

Buffalo was a great 19th century boomtown – one of the largest and most prosperous American cities by the turn of the century, the “Gateway to the West” and a center of industrial innovation. The legacy of our Gilded Age glory days can be found throughout the region, making Buffalo and environs a magnet for lovers of American heritage. Much of that history has been preserved and restored, from a jazz club that hosted the likes of Duke Ellington to a museum dedicated to the legendary Pierce Arrow automobile to the handcrafted elegance of the Roycroft Inn and Campus.

Even the NBC office of the late Meet the Press moderator and Buffalo native Tim Russert is on display at the Buffalo History Museum.

Visitors to this designated Historical Landmark can enjoy performances by local, regional and national jazz, blues, swing and other acts, open jam sessions, and ladies-only bands Sunday afternoons, held upstairs in the original (Colored Musicians) club. The lower level has been transformed into a fabulous new museum that opened in 2013, featuring a wonderful introductory overview film, artifacts, audiovisual stations, musical instruments, music memorabilia, historic photographs and more.

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DESTINATION PROFILE

THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF THINGS TO DO, EXPERIENCE AND SEE DURING YOUR VISIT TO WESTERN NEW YORK; WHATEVER KIND OF ACTIVITY YOU SEEK, INDOOR OR OUTDOOR, ACTION PACKED OR CALM AND RELAXED, THERE IS CERTAINLY SOMETHING FOR YOU. FROM THE EXCITEMENT OF THE SENECA CASINO PROPERTIES TO EXPLORING THE SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS OF ELLICOTTVILLE TO THE ADVENTURES AWAITING YOU IN THE ALLEGANY MOUNTAINS, WESTERN NEW YORK REALLY DOES HAVE IT ALL.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 65

FABULOUS FIVE UNDER ONE ROOF From quick food, take-away to luxurious fine dining experiences, the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino has it all.

BY LYNN OGRYZLO | PHOTOS BY A.J. HARLOND

$ - GREAT VALUE | $$ - UPSCALE CASUAL | $$$ - LUXURIOUS FINE DINING

THE WESTERN DOOR STEAKHOUSE Reputed to be the best steakhouse in Western New York. The Western Door offers a full range of dishes to satisfy the most earnest carnivore. Expect the beefiest flavour to come from the Bone-In Rib Eye or Bone-In Fillet Mignon, the most luxurious meatiness from the Cast-Iron Porterhouse or the Foie Gras & Truffle Burger and the most tender mouthful from the Kobe Filet Mignon or the Rack of Local Lamb. Add seafood to your steak for a dinner of Surf & Turf. Impressive wine cellar is heavily stocked in full-bodied reds for a perfect steak dining experience. Must-try non-steak dishes include Mushroom Flatbread, Lobster Mac & Cheese and the chef ’s special, Pork & Polenta.

PRICE: $$$ HOURS: Open 7 days a week at 5 p.m.

RESERVATIONS: Recommended, 1-877-873-6322 >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 67

THE THREE SISTERS The twenty-four hour taste sensation, The Three Sisters from Seneca legend were the three main life-sustaining crops of corn, beans and squash. Today, the menu has grown well beyond those three ingredients and offers a wide range of delicious dishes. Start the morning right with sizzling Steak & Eggs, bulging HouseMade Omelets or luxurious Nutella Stuffed French Toast. Lunch options are a dizzying array of dishes; Baltimore Crab Cakes, Buffalo Chicken Wings and Montreal-Style Poutine. From the sandwich board, try the local Beef on Weck, the juicy Reuben or the popular Turkey Club. Salads are large and creative, burgers are a whopping half-pound of certified Angus beef and desserts are seductively irresistible. The cafe spills into the open-air lobby for opulent dining or take a seat inside the cozy cafe.

PRICE: $ HOURS: Open Monday through Friday at 11 a.m., Saturday and Sunday at 9 a.m.

RESERVATIONS: Not necessary

KOI ASIAN CUISINE Open for dinner only, Koi is the perfect spot to savour the exotic, elegant flavours of Asian fare. Start in Thailand with a steamy bowl of Thai Tom Yum Soup, experience Japan with Teriyaki Chicken, walk through the flavours of China with Black Pepper Tenderloin Beef or let a dish of Crab Rangoon take you to Hong Kong. It’s Asian Fusion at its best! Clean modern décor and sultry lighting with a centre open kitchen for full view of the chopping, rolling, steaming and searing. Enjoy the culinary theatre or linger by the fireplace.

PRICE: $$ HOURS: Open Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Thursday.

RESERVATIONS: Recommended, 1-877-873-6322

THUNDER FALLS BUFFET This large Marche-style buffet restaurant is already a food destination for its eclectic mix of dishes and specials. Every Thursday and

Friday evening is all you can eat Snow Crab Legs ($29/person, with Player’s Club Card) and Saturday and Sunday evenings is Prime Rib and Shrimp ($24/person, with Player’s Club Card). Clean atmosphere, colourful décor and an open concept means full view of the circular buffet and comfortable dining. Start at the salad bar, the carving station or the pasta station. Wood fired pizza oven means fresh, delicious pizzas to order. There is an Italian section offering beans and greens, lasagna and ravioli, an Asian section with hot pork, beef and chicken to go over fried rice or Asian noodles.

There’s also a Buffalo cuisine section offering up typical dishes from the region like Buffalo Wings, Beef on Weck and Slovaki.

PRICE: $ HOURS: Open Monday through Friday at 11 a.m., Saturday and Sunday at 9 a.m.

RESERVATIONS: Not necessary

BLUES BURGER BAR Building your own burger may appear a bit daunting, but you can do it! Start with a half-pound of premium ground beef, select a bun, your favourite cheese, toppings that inspire you and pull the flavours together with a sauce of your choice. No one can top the Blues burgers except you! You can even choose from beef, chicken or a black bean veggie patty. Eat in or take out, you can call your order in and it’s ready when you arrive.

Also on the menu is an irresistible Chicago Dog, juicy “Lucky Pulled Pork Sandwich” and delicious Italian Sub Combo. Must try the ice cream based milk shakes for a thick, retro flavour of lusciousness. Fries are hand-cut, extra crispy and can be enjoyed neat or topped with chili, cheese, BBQ Pulled Pork or loaded with bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, scallions and jalapeños. Atmosphere is totally relaxed with paper plates, cups, plastic cutlery and plenty of paper napkins to wipe the juices from your chin. Don’t miss the specials during Happy Hour, Mondays through Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

PRICE: $ HOURS: Open seven days a week at 11 a.m.

RESERVATIONS: Not necessary. EWNY

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ELLICOTTVILLE BREWING COMPANY QUALITY, CREATIVITY AND CAMARADERIE

BY JILL THAM

Situated in the heart of Ellicottville where the ski slopes are minutes away and the beer is anything but ordinary, lies the Ellicottville Brewing Company (EBC). With a location in Ellicottville and Fredonia, the EBC has been brewing exceptional craft beer for the past 20 years.

Not many individuals can say they are living their dream, but when you hear Peter Kreinheder, Operator and General Manager of the EBC, talk about his beer and the brewing process, you know he thoroughly enjoys his career. “Craft beer has a story, I could spend hours talking about beer,” states Kreinheder.

Kreinheder works hard to strike a balance between quality and productivity, ultimately keeping brewing a work of art. “We brew only what we will sell,” states Kreinheder. He acknowledges that the focal point of brewing is the choice of hops, the flavour and stabilizing agent in beer. “We are different from other breweries because in mid-September we go out west into the fields and personally select the hops from a variety of growers. We get to know the growers. You can introduce hops in so many different ways,” states Kreinheder.

“It’s a brewer’s thing.” One sip of an EBC beer and it is easy to see why he makes the trip personally to select the hops. Recently,

Kreinheder placed his hops order for the 2016-2017 season.

The Ellicottville Brewing Company has two breweries on its’ premise. The older brewery consists of a 10 barrel brew house pumping out three cases per minute, seven days a week. The new side, with 6 barrels, has been in operation since the summer of 2013 and is where the creativity flows.

Just like a chef in a restaurant, the EBC uses a base style and adds new raw materials to the mix, resulting in a variety of extraordinarily tasting beers. From the Pale Ale that will go down like a traditional brew to the subtle hops of Winter Witte, the EBC is not afraid to take risks. Beer connoisseurs will enjoy trying new ventures such as Chocolate Cherry Bomb and Stainless Steel Obsession.

On the “new side” is where Head Brewer, Dan Minner, shows his talent. “At a normal brew house people don’t get to experiment and try new things. Today we are making Chai Cream Ale,” he states. “We have a variety of different styles that big breweries aren’t doing,” he adds. Although Minner insists he doesn’t have a favourite beer, he acknowledges that the Blueberry Wheat is always a crowd pleaser and the much anticipated batch of Eagle Trail Pale Ale and Caramel Apple. >>

With the craft beer market in a constant upswing, EBC produced 7000 barrels of craft beer in 2014. This wasn’t always the case for the EBC. In the early stages, the brewery was only busy four months of the year during the ski season, which posed a definite sustainability issue for the Brewery. “We used to cater a murder mystery dinner that was held on a train just to keep up cash flow. Now we are busy 12 months of the year,” states Kreinheder.

A recent overtaking and renovation of the coffee shop next door has enabled the EBC to create additional seating for 70 guests. “Most days, the restaurant is filled with large parties of friends and families. Our magic number is 14, we always see seven kids and seven adults sitting together,” states Kreinheder. With 90 employees and a larger space on the second floor, the EBC is a perfect fit for any gathering from rehearsal dinners to corporate or family events. Kreinheder is currently building a beer garden to create a waiting area for guests and an outdoor tented space for bands to perform under in the summer months.

With seven different beers on the market and 20 on tap, EBC is the place to go for a pint and a distinctive dining experience. With a classically vibrant menu complete with the Kobe Truffle Burger and the homemade EBC Barbeque Pulled Pork Pierogies, one can’t go wrong with a trip to the EBC. “Our menu has been a culmination of years of eccentric efforts. Some successful, some not. I often like to keep with an ‘alpine’ theme, then we tried a Swiss Rosti and it was a hit. For a twist last summer we made a big change and created menu items from traditional Mexican ingredients. It was our best menu ever,” says Kreinheder.

“Our antique bar came from a hotel in downtown Buffalo. In the new side we have Douglas Fir beams and barn wood that came from three reclaimed barns.” Complete with woodpecker holes in the barn board and cascading photos of gears from the brewery, the décor in the EBC is full of character.

With his commitment to quality, creativity and camaraderie, Kreinheder is determined to take craft beer industry to the next level. The EBC recently ventured out and formed a partnership with Hamburg Brewery. “Highway 219 connects the two breweries together and we decided to brew a 219 series,” states Kreinheder. “We distribute throughout New York State, Eastern Pennsylvania and some in New Jersey, but our core is Western New York.”

“Most days I meet someone new: someone who has never been to Ellicottville and stops by the brewery and simply wants to enjoy a local beer. My job is real simple, to entertain people, provide great food and exceptional service. In addition, we provide a distinctive embrace and unique space in a great location,” says Kreinheder. If you are not a skier, then there is a good chance that EBC will make you want to learn, so you have the perfect excuse to keep coming back to Ellicottville. Besides, how else will you get to taste the perfection EBC comes up with next? Stay tuned at ellicottvillebrewing.com. EWNY

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COOL ACTS HOT NIGHTS Feel the energy all summer with a lineup that features the biggest names and the best entertainment.

OUTDOOR SHOW

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June 19 at 7 PM June 20 at 8 PM

THE LAST SUMMER ON EARTH TOUR WITH BARENAKED LADIES, VIOLENT FEMMES AND COLIN HAY

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June 26 at 8 PM

June 21 at 5:30 PM

PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO July 3 at 7 PM

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July 11 at 8 PM

July 4 & 5 at 8 PM

Seneca Niagara Events Center

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BRIAN MCKNIGHT July 18 at 8 PM

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August 1 at 8 PM

1-800-745-3000 JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS

MONTGOMERY GENTRY August 28 at 7 PM

August 14 at 8 PM

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GET OUTSIDE +GET ACTIVE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES NEAR SENECA ALLEGANY RESORT & CASINO

Cattaraugus County is comprised of Olean, Salamanca, Ellicottville, Gowanda, Ashford and numerous other small towns. There are tons of different outdoor activities to partake in, and the best part is, there is something to do year round. Given it’s location in the Allegany Mountains, the activities are as varied as downhill skiing, golf and hiking. It’s a place that is not only picturesque, but a veritable outdoor playground.

DOWNHILL SKIING There are a couple options for great downhill skiing and they are only about a ten minute drive from the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino.

Holiday Valley is a large ski resort located in Ellicottville, and has 58 day slopes and 37 night trails. Both day and night skiing are available. There are slopes for all levels of skiers, as well as instructional classes for all ages. Rates vary on weekdays and weekends, and passes can be purchased for different time increments (4 hrs., 8 hrs., night, weekend) There are 13 chair lifts, and several lodges with food and drink options. Ski rentals are available right at Holiday Valley if you don’t have your own equipment. More information at holidayvalley.com Holimont is also located in Ellicottville and is North America’s largest private resort offering 52 runs and 8 lifts. During the week, non members are allowed, rentals are available on location. More information at holimont.com

TUBING Just down the street from the Holiday Valley ski area is the Holiday Valley Tubing Company. The tubing area has 12 different lanes and a tow rope to get you up the hill. During open hours at Holiday Valley, there is a free shuttle service that runs to and from the tubing area. Winter time hours are Thursday and Friday from

4:30 to 9pm, Saturdays 11am to 9pm and Sundays from 11am to 6pm. Make sure to dress warm and dress in appropriate snow clothing (no cotton). Prices vary depending on how long you want to slide for. More info at holidayvalley.com/explore-our-mountain/ other-winter-activities-tubing

ZIP-LINING/TREE TOP TREKKING SKY HIGH ADVENTURE PARK This aerial park sees you climbing through trees, up on platforms, and zipping from tree to tree. This all happens while you are harnessed in, so you get all the exhilaration and none of the danger.

There are 13 different courses available, and they all range from very easy to very difficult. There is also a “climbing forest” and a mountain coaster that winds down through the mountains. Riders are able to control their own speed as well, so the ride can either be thrilling or a scenic glide. More information at holidayvalley.com/ explore-our-mountain/sky-high-adventure-park

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING/SNOWSHOEING/HIKING If you are not up for the fast speeds of downhill skiing, why not try cross-country? It’s definitely a great workout and when you are in Western New York, it will be scenic as well. The Allegany State Park is full of different trails that can be used for cross country skiing, snowshoeing or when the weather gets warmer, hiking. The park has 18 trails which span over 20 miles, most of which are used year round. Stop by the visitor centre and grab a map so you can see an outline of all the trails and how to access them. A good reference is also enchantedmountains.com. Holiday Valley also offers cross country course area. To get to the hills on top, you need to buy a 2 ride cross country ticket.

GOLFING There are numerous golf courses in the area: Double Black Diamond Course is a picturesque 18 hole, par 70 course located at the foot of the mountains.

St. Bonaventure Golf Club is located in Allegany, New York. 9 holes par 36.

Elkdale Country Club is a challenging 18-hole course located halfway between Salamanca and Ellicottville. It is a semi private course, you just need to make a tee time reservation.

Concord Crest Golf Course is located close to Seneca Allegany casino, just off Genesee Rd. There is wetlands, creeks, ponds and trees. It is a 18 hole course with a par 71.

Bird Run Country Club is located in Allegany and is a great 9 hole course if you are looking for a quick and fun round of golf.

RAFTING If you are up for a bit more adventure, why not go for a wild ride down the Cattaraugus Creek? Trips take about three hours and run from March 21 to May 17 on Saturdays and Sunday. Weekday trips are available, but only upon special request. Costs are either $50 or $40 a person, depending on the part of the river you raft on.

All costs include a pizza party at the end of the trip and as a bonus, if the price is paid two weeks in advance of the trip, wet-suit rental fees are waived. The rapids can be strong in this area, especially in early Spring. There are two different sections of river this company rafts on, and the one chosen for each trip is determined by water flow in the river. You’ll be rafting through the Zoan Valley State Forest Preserve, a very remote and beautiful area of western New York. Depending on which section of the river you are rafting, you’ll either encounter class II/II + rapids or III & IV rapids.

More information is available at adventure-calls.com

CYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING There are tons of great trails to explore in the region, everything from paved paths to old railway lines to rough terrain for the mountain bikers.

The Allegany River Trail runs along the river and covers 5.6 miles through Olean out to St. Bonaventure University.

Allegany State Park has several miles of both paved and unpaved trails. The Pat McGee Trail is an old converted railroad line. It winds 12.14 miles and is quite scenic.

State Bicycle Route 17 is part of a path that covers almost the entire state. The portion in this area runs parallel to Interstate 86.

For the adventurous mountain bikers, Holiday Valley offers a 4.5 mile race loop at the top of one of mountains. There is no cell service available, so you’ll need to use a map to find your way up and around once you get here.

Maps available for download at enchantedmountains.com. EWNY TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 75

MINTS & SOCKS MUST HAVES FOR A GREAT WEEKEND

BY LYNN OGRYZLO

The rooms at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino are spacious and modern with the silkiest bed sheets, most luxurious bathrooms and magical views. My room faced north. I could see the snow covered buildings and ancient churches of Niagara Falls, New York and the Niagara Falls, Ontario skyline. The thundering Falls with a soaring cloud of billowing mist rose into the sky and drifted westward. The sight outside is sheer magic and drama, and so is it inside.

This is about a girl’s weekend away: no children, no husbands, no dishes and no cares in the world except each other and the amount of fun we can have. My friends and I try to do this every year, we’re not always successful but this year we hit it big.

The Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino is centrally located on the U.S.A., Canada border meaning it’s a short 90-minute drive from Toronto or Rochester and an ideal location for a girls weekend away. Giddy like schoolgirls, we pile into one car and head out. The Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino has just undergone a $26 million gaming floor renovation complete with a culinary face-lift and an enhanced Spa. This is going to be a great weekend!

Everyone in our small party of four are coming for different reasons. The resort fits with Debi’s wanting to be pampered sensibilities. It’s a self-contained entertainment complex that satisfies Julie’s wild side.

The gaming floor has limitless options giving Jeannie her lust for a thrill and the nine on-site restaurants feed my demand for eclectic dining. In addition to all of this, if we ever wanted to leave the casino, it would be for the unlimited shopping options that are within a few minutes drive. I’m thinking a weekend may not be enough.

Friday night we start the weekend with a show in The Bear’s Den. It’s an intimate theatre and we get up-close and personal with Canadian rockers, Honeymoon Suite. After the show, the night is still young and we’re pumped. We crossed the lights and action of the gaming floor towards the giant 42-foot television screen that towers over Stir. Stir is an impressive ultra-lounge and our idea of big-city fun. The giant circular bar glows purple and blue, a live band rocks on 20-feet above us and we can let loose on the dance floor. We slink into the gold covered curved benches and bury our lips into a few foggy blue martinis.

There’s nothing more self-indulgent than four ladies living a fantasy existence in exciting surroundings, even if it is only for a few days.

The resort easily transports us into a make-believe world complete with the safety of knowing that after a few drinks, we can simply walk upstairs to our room.

Late the next morning we all order breakfast in bed. Eggs, maple smoked bacon and thick slices of buttery toast with orange juice and coffee. We nibble, giggle and take turns in and out of the shower. I search my bag feverishly looking for the matching sock to the one in my hand; it’s nowhere to be found. I find myself deep in domestic thought about dirty laundry, aggravating mismatched socks and resentment over lack of time to pack when, the girls pull me back.

What’s wrong with one sock on, one sock off?

What’s left of the morning is reserved for a little retail therapy in the shops that flank the north and south side of the massive gaming

floor. Besides a new pair of navy socks with glittery icons of Paris, France we stock up on Watson’s sponge chocolate, some lavender seasalt body bath crystals and a manicure set complete with nail buffer; Julie splurges in a Swarovski crystal bracelet. We all get an ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery, it’s the perfect portal to friendly bliss.

In-between the shops we’re hard at work reading menus and checking our appetites. We settle on the lighter fare of Koi Noodle Bar. I dig into my Cantonese Crispy Noodle Bowl, Julie is expertly managing her sushi with chopsticks, Jeannie is savoring her Sea Scallops with Black Bean Sauce and Debi is diving into her Cashew Thai Chicken. We giggle and make serious decisions on how much we’re going to invest into an afternoon of good fortune on the gaming floor.

We decide on slot machines, Debi wants to play Keno. We walk the floor trying to invent reasons to play the Ghost Busters game or The Walking Dead slot machine.

We are certainly not what you’d call hard core players and have long given up any pretense of knowing what we’re doing. We sip on complementary drinks and the fun snowballs. Some of us play, others watch and cheer and the afternoon turns into early evening. In the end, there are winners and there are losers. Julie runs out to get an old-fashion vanilla milkshake from Blues Burger Bar. Debi gets a loaded ice cream from Cold Slab Creamery, Jeannie comes back with chocolate and I find white peppermint bark. These are the icons of celebration.

Exhausted we regroup back at the room; like great weekends that preceded this one, we’re ahead enough on our winnings to afford four glorious spa treatments. We book the last treatments of the day and head down to the swanky spa facilities. I sink into a massage table, Julie dunks into the hot tub, Debi gets in a few laps in the pool and Jeannie relishes in the yoga studio stretching her body into total relaxation.

That evening we dress up and head for the Western Door steakhouse. We don’t know Bartender Frank Ryan but he becomes our best friend, mixing, stirring, shaking and muddling lavish drinks to begin our evening. I order the lamb and it is like butter, the steaks are juicy and flavorful and the lobster sweet and bright.

It’s late at night and while we’re still at dinner working our way through a Chocolate Molton Cake and some of Frank’s strawberry infused vodka, sleep starts to creep up on us. Eventually we make our way back to our rooms and surprisingly, there are little mints on our pillows. It’s never too late for chocolate so we unwrap and indulge.

The little mints have soft, brilliant blue inside, enrobed in milk chocolate. They’re spearmint not peppermint, they’re deliriously good and it brings on our second wind. We’re up for another hour of giggling and story telling before we all fall into a deep sleep.

It’s now the morning we leave, but not before lounging, taking our last bubble baths and polish our nails. We lunch at the Three Sisters Café and say good-bye to another great weekend at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. As each of us walks through the doors into the real world we switch back into our wives and mothers’ roles chatting about groceries and errands before heading home. We’re ourselves once again but for a few exciting days, we were away in an exotic place where we could be pampered and indulged. EWNY

I’M THINKING A WEEKEND MAY NOT BE

ENOUGH.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 77

“Dancing Polar Bear” by Noo Atsiaq, 22” tall x 12” x 8”

Native Canadian Art Gallery 129 Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0 Canada Phone: 905-468-8787 Toll Free: 1-855-668-8787

Native Arts Niagara 3845 Main Street Jordan, ON, L0R 1S0 Canada Phone: (905) 562-8888 Toll Free: 1-800-646-2848

www.canadiannativeartgallery.com canadiannativearts@outlook.com

www.nativeartsniagara.com scottdaly@nativeartsniagara.com

facebook.com/nativecanadianartgallery facebook.com/nativecanadianartgallery

DON’T SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS THAN

SPECTACULAR Just minutes away from Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino is Seneca Hickory Stick Golf, WNY’s premier course – a course so beautifully designed, it doesn’t stand “on par” with the region’s best courses… it soars like an “eagle” above them. So much so, the course was recently recognized by Golfweek magazine as one of the Best Casino Courses, and Golf magazine ranked Hickory Stick as #12 public course in the entire New York state area.

Located in scenic Lewiston, N.Y., Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course offers 18 holes of championship-level golf on a challenging PGA-style terrain designed by world-renowned course architect Robert Trent Jones II, who has designed more than 270 golf courses in 40 different countries. For avid golfers this is sure to be on everyone’s “must-play” list.

Named to reflect the presence of rare and protected shellbark Hickory trees on site, Seneca Hickory Stick features a picturesque layout highlighted by tranquil lakes and ponds, native plants and grasses that are surrounded by large mature trees. The course fits in and feeds off of its natural surroundings to create an experience that those who play the course will appreciate and enjoy. It will take golfers on a unique

journey throughout their round.

Several years in the making, the 257-acre, 7,026-yard course provides a test of skill and finesse for every shot. The largest hole is a massive 620-yard, par-5 at the 11th hole, and the shortest hole – a 159-yard, par-3 at the 18th hole – presents a challenging water hazard. Additionally, Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course features a unique double green at the ninth and 18th holes. It’s a fitting way to cap off the perfect round of golf.

No membership is required, and golfers are encouraged to purchase the Seneca Hickory Stick Loyalty card that provides benefits like discounted green fees, advance tee-time booking options and a special birthday bonus.

In addition, members of Seneca Resorts & Casinos Players Club can use their points earned through their casino play to pay for green fees, retail merchandise or food & beverage at Hickory Grill, located in the Clubhouse.

Call 1-877-8-SENECA and ask about Golf & Stay packages in conjunction with Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. Visit SenecaHickoryStick.com for more details. EWNY

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 79

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE PEOPLE’S PAST AT THE SENECAIROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM

THE SENECA NATION OF INDIANS The Seneca Nation of Indians is the largest of six Native American nations, which comprise the Haudenosaunee or Iroquois Confederacy, also commonly referred to as simply the Six Nations. The confederacy is a democratic government that predates the United States Constitution. As the Seneca Nation is the Westernmost of the Six Nations, they are known as “The Keeper of the Western Door”. This door to the symbolic longhouse is shared with the other five nations which include Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, Mohawk, and Tuscarora, which are collectively called “Hodinöhsö:ni’” or “People of the longhouse”.

They are known as the People of the Great Hill or “Onöndowa’ga’:”, but referred to as Seneca with many spelling variations by the non-natives. The Onöndowa’ga:’ is comprised of eight different clans, with an animal side, or a bird side. “Lineage, or the blood line, is matrilineal (through the mother). So mothers, sisters, and daughters in the Onöndowa’ga:’ world define the family,” explains Sue Grey, External Relations Manager, SenecaIroquois National Museum. Members of the animal clans, which include the bear, turtle, wolf and beaver, marry those from a bird clan, including heron, hawk, snipe, and deer, to prevent marrying a family member.

Seneca keeps their rich history and proud traditions alive by promoting their culture through awareness, education, and festivities to encourage both natives and non-natives to learn about their interesting past. Unlike some other Native American cultures, Seneca has not assimilated entirely into mainstream, North American culture, and has even kept alive their own language that is separate from English. Today the Seneca Nation of Indians is comprised of a population of over 8000 enrolled members. They are the fifth largest employer in Western New York, creating thousands of jobs and playing an integral role in the region and New York State’s economy.

THE SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM Visitors are invited to join the Seneca people as they are guided through a history of their past, and are presented with an informative overview of their culture and traditions. The collection of permanent and temporary exhibits provide guests with an introduction to the ideas and values that reflect those of the Onöndowa’ga:’ and Hodinöhsö:ni’ people.

The permanent exhibits deliver an exceptional analysis of the most important part of the Seneca’s roots and the history of the Six Nations. The “This Is Where We Walked Exhibit” guides visitors through a journey of the hardships endured by the Seneca Nation of Indians, and the challenges they faced with losing their homes, land, sense of community, and lifestyles. Attendees are welcome to check out two models of real Iroquois dwellings including a log cabin and a longhouse room, where they can learn

“THE ONÖNDOWA’GA:’ ARE WHO THEY ARE BECAUSE OF OUR RESILIENCY, OUR LANGUAGE, HISTORY AND CULTURE. ONCE ONE OF THESE DISAPPEARS, WE WILL DISAPPEAR AS A UNIQUE PEOPLE.” - SUE GREY, EXTERNAL RELATIONS MANAGER, SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM about daily life as a member of the Seneca Nation. Additionally, the “Ga’säde:ngö (clans) - “Why Animals and Birds” exhibit explains why these clans are an essential and lasting component of Hodinöhsö:ni’ culture.

Non-permanent exhibits are also vital to the changing curriculum of the museum’s programming, as there are always new and exciting presentations that cater to visitors of all ages with different interests. One of their most recent temporary exhibits during the later months of 2014, the “We Play Lacrosse Exhibit” attracted local lacrosse teams to the museum to learn about the history of their favourite sport and a background about the culture it came from. The Seneca museum also frequently hosts educational and leisure events open to the public. These include language classes, farmer’s markets, and spiritual wellness sessions to unite both native and non-natives by experiencing the traditional ways of life of the original settlers. A majority of the Seneca population continues to reside today in the Allegany Territory (Salamanca, NY) and the Cattaraugus Territory (Irving, NY).

VISIT THE SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM Be sure to discover all that is offered at the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum during your next trip to Salamanca and the beautiful surrounding towns in the Allegany Territory. The area is rich in divine natural beauty and offers many activities in which to enjoy the spectacular scenery. The spirit of the SenecaIroquois Nations is kept alive at the museums’ superior exhibitions. Authentic Native American made souvenirs are available for purchase at the museum’s gift shop.

Seneca-Iroquois National Museum is located at 814 Broad Street, Salamanca, NY 14779. For a current listing of hours or more information, visit senecamuseum.org. EWNY

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 81

STATE PARK Imagine it; you step from the stuffy confines of your car surrounded by a world of rich evergreen and deep brown tones. You roll up your collar and zipper your jacket a little higher as the cool damp air of spring hits you with a sudden shock to the senses, but it’s a pleasant shock as it brings an instant memory of the deep rich scent of the wild and free air that you have been longing for. A wave of exhilaration washes over you as you realize, you’re here.

You’re in a place where you have been longing to be for many weeks now, outside of the confines of winter and once again free to roam. You’re in Allegany State Park, the heart of the Enchanted Mountains. You’ve parked at a trailhead, one of many in Allegany State Park’s 100 square mile wilderness; but this one you have never explored, so as with any adventure the excitement builds with every stride you take down this unknown path. You stride away from your daily routine, and the distance between you and the intimately known grind is ever increasing. With a growing lightness in your step, you are lured ever forward into the natural world while absorbing the majestic sights, the earthy smells, and the whispering sounds of the forest and streams that surround you.

The glistening gray wetness of moss laden rocks catches your eye as you pass through a soft meadow of green ferns that are beginning to unfurl for the ever increasing sunlight of growing days. Ahead a steep hollow, crowned with the solemn majesty of giant hemlocks that tower over a babbling run of clear cold mountain water with wide pools brimming with native brook trout. The melodious sing-song of nature’s avian choir swells in crescendo each day as the migration floats in on southern winds like an aerial flood overtaking the rich forest. Then in the near distance, a flash of black, so stark it seems as if darkness itself has come to life; and there you freeze still as stone, without breathing and with your heart racing you realize you are witnessing the first appearance of a wild black bear that has slumbered through the passing of winter’s cold.

By: Jg Bailey

THE SPLENDOR OF SPRING AWAITS YOU AT ALLEGANY It is in places like this we all seek to roam. We roam in the wild to lose ourselves, in a bid to rediscover ourselves amongst nature’s divinity. In our own unhurried time, each of us finds what we are searching for within ourselves. You may find it hiking miles of rugged trail abounding with wildlife, to witness incredible vistas unseen by scores of men, while you push yourself physically to unwind mentally. Or, perhaps you’ll find it roll casting a dry-fly upstream of a densely covered pool, the tiny fly and gossamer tippet gently kissing the water’s surface with a subtle dimple, and the fly drifts down on delicately rolling currents, bending around a sleek bolder into the slack water behind where a miniature monster lurks in the deep. In the end though, it doesn’t matter how you find it, it only matters that you take the time to look and renew. So, if this magical place sounds appealing, its splendor awaits you now – right now. You only have to take the first step to get there.

Whether you plan a short day trip to the Enchanted Mountains to witness the wonders of Allegany State Park, or you plan an extended stay for several days to immerse yourself in nature, you have a wide variety of options to take advantage of in your recreational pursuit. Don’t put off the opportunity to commune with the outdoors in solitude, or have a meaningful outing with family and close friends. If you enjoy hiking, fishing, cycling, mountain biking, jogging, canoeing, kayaking, birdwatching, learning, or dozens of other activities; there is something here of value for you, your family, and your friends. The park offers camping in cabins and full service cottages in early spring as well as campsites starting in May, or you can take advantage of upscale lodging accommodations with lively entertainment immediately adjacent to the park, and in the local area.

For more information including maps, events, and lodging details please visit nysparks.com, EnchantedMountains.com, and senecaalleganycasino.com. EWNY

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