special success stories

ARCHITECTS UNVEIL DYNAMIC DESIGNS FOR VIBRANT NEW CANARY DISTRICT
Ground is broken for first condominium building
Cutting-edge vision for future live-work-play neighbourhood is unveiled

A team of renowned architects, city officials and developers, today broke ground on the exciting Canary District, an area in the city’s West Don Lands which will transform from a home for athletes participating in the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games, into Toronto’s most ambitious city-building project in generations.

Award-winning, Toronto-based architects Peter Clewes of architectsAlliance and Bruce Kuwabara of KPMB Architects—representing a high-profile Integrated Design Team—along with Waterfront Toronto vice-president of development, Meg Davis, outlined the stunning architectural vision for the dynamic Canary District and surrounding neighbourhood. The sustainable, mixed use neighbourhood will feature 8 buildings including market condominiums, affordable housing, George Brown College student residence, YMCA, and world-class lifestyle amenities and top-tier retail—a winning combination that’s sure to make it Toronto’s most desirable live-work-play destination for decades to come.

“Unlike many athletes’ village projects which are purpose-built to house competitors during major athletic events and then converted to other uses following the games, this project is advancing the building of a community that was already planned and under development,” Davis said of the ambitious project.

Hosted by Soulpepper Theatre Company artistic director Albert Schultz, the event also included an overview of plans for Block 11—Canary District Condominiums, the first building slated for construction—by Dundee Kilmer, and a ground-breaking ceremony for the building. Sales will commence in June 2012.

Of course, this isn’t the area’s first shift in appearance. Originally a Carolinian forest, the West Don Lands has experienced numerous reinventions as parkland in the nineteenth century, a residential community at the turn of the century and an industrial rail land for most of the 20th century.

As Kuwabara and Clewes pointed out, this latest transformation is poised to reshape the West Don Lands once again, leaving behind a sustainable live-work-play neighbourhood that will forever change Toronto’s waterfront.

To ensure aesthetic diversity across the Canary District, teams from four architecture firms—architectsAlliance, KPMB, Daoust Lestage Inc., and MacLellan Jaunkalns Miller Architects—were commissioned to design unique, contemporary buildings reflective of their trademark architectural styles. The Integrated Design Team was tasked to work within Waterfront Toronto’s precinct and block plan built over years of intensive consultation between key stakeholders such as the City of Toronto, local community groups, Infrastructure Ontario, and TO2015 while still injecting their own unique creative flourishes to build a truly livable and sustainable neighbourhood.

“Our challenge was to transform the prescribed blocks into highly livable, contemporary modern architecture while restoring the West Don Lands to the city and contributing to the Waterfront Toronto revitalization vision,” said Kuwabara.

Clewes added that the neighbourhood was designed from the outset as a community for the 21st century, one that achieved a perfect balance between the city and nature. “This is a unique site at the mouth of a historic river, where people can live, work and play in urbane, modern buildings, in the midst of an urban landscape of animated streetscapes, public spaces, pathways, courtyards and plazas,” he said.

Some of the key elements incorporated into the design of the District include an extensive pedestrian network to allow for a highly walkable neighbourhood, open and transparent streetscapes, as well as large-scale building windows and balconies to offer a connection between residents living above and the bustle of streets below—a direct nod to the late Toronto urban planning visionary Jane Jacobs’ ‘eyes on the street’ thesis. Amenities at the base of residential buildings will include retail stores, cafes and restaurants, as well as accessible community and recreational services.

To connect the Canary District with the neighbouring Distillery District, materials such as masonry are being used at street-level, while a contemporary and modern design aesthetic has prevailed to exemplify the area’s status as Toronto’s most cutting-edge new community. The community’s overall design maximizes green spaces throughout and meets LEED® Gold criteria, while honouring requirements of Toronto’s Mandatory Green Building standard.

For more information about the Canary District, please visit www.canarydistrict.com
CONTACT:
David Eisenstadt / Beth Merrick / Rhoda Eisenstadt
The Communications Group Inc.
416-696-9900 ext. 36 / 41 / 33
deisenstadt@tcgpr.com / bmerrick@tcgpr.com/ reisenstadt@tcgpr.com

About Dundee Kilmer Developments L.P.
Dundee Kilmer Developments Limited is a partnership between Dundee Realty Corporation and Kilmer Van Nostrand for the purpose of developing the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games Athletes’ Village project in the West Don Lands. Dundee Realty Corporation is a privately-held Toronto-based real estate investment, development and asset management company with approximately $7 billion in assets under management. Dundee Realty brings extensive mixed-use development and financing experience to the Project. In particular, Dundee Realty offers relevant and unique investment and development experience in the immediate vicinity of the Project site that will bring enhanced value to the Project Team.

Kilmer Van Nostrand Co. Limited is the private investment holding company of Canadian business leader and philanthropist, Larry Tanenbaum. Kilmer actively builds and manages investments in real estate and infrastructure, sports, entertainment and media, and private equity. The firm is a well-qualified partner for the Project given its over 40 years of experience in the construction and development industry in Canada, and its track record in partnering with the public sector throughout Canada in the delivery and management of infrastructure assets.

A fusion of diverse talents and strengths, Dundee Kilmer is the ideal team with the knowhow and experience to bring the vision of Canary District to life.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, CANADA was honoured by the CANADIAN FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION by winning the 2012 CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP AWARD

April 2, 2012
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK – CANADA was honoured, April 2, 2012, by the CANADIAN FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION at their Gala Dinner by winning the 2012 CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP AWARD for their innovative MIKEY NETWORK / MIKEY-ON-BOARD campaign. The Award is presented to a franchise system that has demonstrated impactful, genuine and ongoing concern and support for a community or social service group(s). Joining President/CEO John Prittie (holding the Award) are the winning Team (l-r) Two Men And A Truck – Canada CFO, Brad Foster; COO, Dan Hopkins; Mikey Network Executive Director, Morty Henkle; John Prittie; Two Men And A Truck GTA North President, Eva Szypulska; Two Men And a Truck – Canada VP Operations, Chuck Resnick; Mikey Network’s, Irit Salem; TCGPR Partner, David Eisenstadt; and RealDigital’s Ian Gordon.

L-EAT EXPRESS AND ITS DELIVERY TRIKE - A NEW SPIN ON DOWNTOWN TORONTO DINING
Restaurateur Tony Loschiavo’s newest establishment offers fresh food fast, for dine-in or take-out

TORONTO, February 28, 2012
L-EAT Express (www.leatexpress.com), the newest offering by successful caterer, restaurateur, chef and sommelier Tony Loschiavo, takes aim at discerning downtown Toronto office, condo and apartment dwellers with house-made, hand-made Italian fare.

From its 410 Adelaide St. W. location, just west of Spadina in Toronto, L-EAT Express offers fast delivery service by “Toronto’s first and only delivery tricycle; a custom-fitted three-wheeler with an insulated box that keeps food hot or cold while avoiding all the traffic snarls and parking nightmares traditional delivery methods entail,” Loschiavo said.

Loschiavo’s L-EAT Catering and two Paese restaurants have established him as a visionary and a traditionalist, a combination poised to make L-EAT Express his next big success.

With the best ingredients (some grown at Loschiavo’s North York urban garden that serves all his outlets), heritage Italian flavours and a location within minutes of the most crowded parts of the city, L-EAT Express offers speedy food delivery as well as an inviting eat-in environment among Douglas fir-topped tables and a Milan-style stand-up bar, leather-clad chairs and historic Toronto photographs. “Home-made sauces, stews, giardiniera and more line the shelves, offering easy dinner possibilities too,” added Loschiavo.

Said L-EAT’s Director of Operations, Richard Arnold, “Everything at L-EAT Express is hand-made in-house. We roast turkeys, jar tomato sauce and preserves, slow-cook stews, make paté, bake decadent dessert squares, have specially-pressed olive oil bottled in Italy and, even scour the forest in early spring, picking ramps for pickling on-site. The mayo is made in-house and provides a base for the aioli. Focaccia is made fresh daily, and all our breads come from a starter nearly a decade old.”

“Then there’s the coffee,” Loschiavo adds, “Our coffee is not an after-thought. Pizza, a glass of wine and good coffee. There’s perfection in this, done the right way. As any self-respecting coffee-loving Italian would agree.”

L-EAT Express serves only 100 per cent organic, resiprocate coffee, ground on-site daily and serves Ruffino for our espresso. “Coffee is 99 per cent water, so it has to be great, too. The water we use is filtered for hardness, but leaves desirable minerals that complement flavour. And if even a good wine or fine beer isn’t enough to perk up the afternoon, a caffé corretto should do it. Corretto corrects an espresso with a shot of liquor, often grappa, Sambuca or brandy,” Loschiavo said.

ABOUT L-EAT GROUP

L-EAT is owned by Tony Loschiavo. The company’s portfolio includes its two flagship PAESE Ristorantes (3827 Bathurst St. and 333 King St. W.), L-EAT Catering and L-EAT Express.

Paese (pa’eze) means town or village; this symbolizes the Bathurst and Wilson Sts. neighbourhood which was opened in Toronto in 1983. The Company has stayed true to a handcrafted and house-made approach to a menu that is Italian inspired, but with a distinctive and original made-in-Canada twist.

L-EAT Catering opened in 1983, is a full service, off-site caterer, dedicated to creating restaurant-quality meals served with style and panache. L-EAT emphasizes one-on-one planning and each client has a single contact person who tracks every detail to make certain each event is a creative expression of your celebrations.

THREE WHEELS, NO WAITING
L-EAT EXPRESS Offers First Tricycle Food Delivery In Toronto

L-Eat Express delivers an array of its tasty take-out menu aboard a three-wheeler powered in the most environmentally-responsible way — by two strong legs. This tricycle features a 2ft. by 30in. by 4ft. box on the back.

Loschiavo, a devoted cyclist, sourced this tricycle through Queen West’s legendary Duke’s Cycle, and then fitted it with a custom box into which L-Eat staffers can roll custom-designed, self-contained, insulated coolers that keep food hot or cold while avoiding all the traffic snarls and parking nightmares Torontonians dread when travelling in the downtown core.

It’s a delivery decision that makes Loschiavo think about his baby blue roots. In the early ‘80s, he opened L-EAT, a business that brought lunch to hard-working hairdressers, often too busy to even sit down, let alone go out for lunch. He turned natural ingredients into savory sandwiches and homemade goodies baked at his Mom’s home, and then delivered them by a tuxedo-clad emissary in a baby blue VW Beetle. “We used to get three parking tickets a day,” Loschiavo said.

Fast forward to today, Loschiavo adds, “our trike really makes sense in the downtown core.”

L-EAT EXPRESS is located at 410 Adelaide St. W. Tel. 416-601-9226
Visit http://leatexpress.com/

OCTOBER, 2011
In the middle of the recession, the Israeli developer Gil Blutrich snapped up $120 million worth of hotels, resorts and waterfront in Toronto and southern Ontario. How he built his empire of vacation destinations for the yachting class. Read the whole article

BuzzBuzzHome Corp.

July 20, 2011

When it comes to the public relations side of housing and condo development in the GTA, there are very few people as knowledgeable as Rhoda Eisenstadt. Rhoda is a managing partner at The Communications Group, one of Canada's largest independent public relations firms. She's been in the business since 1976, amassing a wealth of unique experience providing real estate clients with strategic planning and consumer relations services.

Let the buzzing begin!

BuzzBuzzHome: How did you come to work in PR?

Rhoda Eisenstadt: I was actually a grade two teacher in the public school system and I was on maternity leave, so I had a year off. After about three or four months, I had cabin fever and my partner had just started The Communications Group at that time and they needed someone to come in and do things that nobody else wanted to do.

I came in and started to work two days and then three days and then very quickly it became a full time job. So I didn't go back to teaching, this was more fun.

BBH: What's your favourite part of your job?

RE: The variety that this job affords me. I start thinking about what we do in our office everyday and the different things that we do in a day or a week is just mind blowing.

For example, where else would you get to put out a news release and work with the world news media for the sale of the $28 million penthouse at the Four Seasons. We also do so many events. We worked on a celebration of the new ownership of the King Edward Hotel. We threw a huge 60s/70s themed party where we had a Beatles cover band and John and Yoko in bed with peace signs and Marilyn Monroe in the lounge singing.

At NY Towers, when the first four buildings were completed, they had designed the towers so the tops would light up at night — they're quite stunning. We had a lighting up celebration for that particular thing and the TV stations had sent their helicopters over. There are so many different types of events. We do about 200 every year. Other times we work with various development companies when they first buy a piece of land to reach out to the stakeholders to let them know about the company's plans for that piece of
land.

BBH: We were going to ask you about what a typical work day is like... But it sounds like there's no such thing as a typical work day for you.

RE: That's very true. That's what makes it so wonderful and what keeps everyone on their toes. You need to be very organized to be in this business and as long as you're organized it can all happen. You can really enjoy everything that you're doing.

BBH: How has the industry changed in the years you've been a part of it?

RE: There a number of ways that it's changed. The first way is the consumer is so much knowledgeable now. A number of years ago, Hugh Heron of Heathwood Homes, used to say "you know people spend more time shopping for a pair of shoes than they do buying a house and that needs to stop."

Fortunately, this has changed. Everyone really does their homework now and there are some many ways for them to become well educated. Using the print media and knocking on doors, I guess, those are the traditional ways of doing that. But also, turning on their computer or iPads and exploring the different social media platforms. They can view and builder's website. There are all kinds of purchaser chat rooms. They can review purchasers' experiences with builders on various sites. They can read the blogs.

We're tapping into BuzzBuzz to get our clients' messages across to the consumer. We're tapping into existing blogs, we're writing blogs for our clients or helping with websites for our clients and Twitter and Facebook messaging. It's just terrific.

Another big change is that the purchaser is not necessarily an end user anymore as Toronto has become like other major cities in the world. Like New York and London, it's considered a very good place to invest. The Canadian economy is so solid and the housing industry is giving very good returns. Over a long period of time there's been a steady increase. Toronto is now a very competitive market so people are getting tremendous value for their money.

Also the number of developers in Toronto who are dedicated to building condominium or lowrise homes that really enhance the skyline — both in the city and the 'burbs. There are so many in the city now.

BBH: What's your favourite summer neighbourhood in Toronto?

RE: That's a hard one. I think my favourite area is the Yorkville/Annex area. It's not too far from my house. It's great to walk down there. It's very green, you've got Bloor Street and the shops but if you go to Philosopher's Walk all the way down — it's really beautiful and it's really something to have that in the middle of the city. Koerner Hall is also gorgeous there. The architecture is gorgeous, the way they put the old and the new together. That for me is the most charming neighbourhood in the city.

BBH: What do you know now that you would have liked to have known when you started working at TCG?

RE: I would have loved to have known from the beginning that you need to keep a pair of construction boots and a pair of socks in the back of your car at all times for construction site
visits.

Thanks to Rhoda for taking the time to BuzzTalk with us!

With toonies ready to be tossed into a concrete bucket high atop the Four Seasons Private Residences Toronto, the May 31/11 topping-off ceremony also celebrated the sale of Canada's most exclusive condominium residence, purchased by an international buyer for $28 million, making it the most expensive condominium sold in Canadian history.

Circling the bucket and joining Alan Menkes, President, High–Rise Residential Division , Menkes Developments Ltd. (fifth from left) and Isadore Sharp, Founder and Chairman of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts (fourth from left) from left to right rear are Mel Pearl, President, Lifetime Developments; Steven Menkes, President, Low-Rise Residential, Menkes Developments Ltd.; George Frankfort, Partner, Lifetime Developments; Isadore Sharp; Alan Menkes; Murray Menkes, Chairman of the Board; Mimi Ng, Vice-President, Marketing; Peter Menkes, President, Commercial/Industrial, Menkes Developments Ltd.; Allan Scoler, Vice President, Design and Construction, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts; Joe Francavilla, Vice President, Construction, Menkes Developments Ltd.

The penthouse occupies the top floor of the 55-storey West Residence building, and encompasses 9,038 sq. ft. of living space. The suite, with panoramic views of Toronto's towering skyline, features 12 ft. ceilings, a breathtaking floor-to-ceiling glass galleria and four expansive corner terraces. Included in the price is a staff residence, located in the adjacent, 26-storey East Residence building. The staff residence provides the owners with the convenience of separate, private quarters for household staff located on-site.

“As one of the largest developments of its kind in North America, our exciting new hotel and private residence in Toronto represents a wonderful affirmation of the strength of the Four Seasons brand in Canada and around the world,” said Isadore Sharp, Founder and Chairman of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “

"This new home will allow us to offer the exquisite service, style and comforts that have become our hallmark, while remaining the world leader in luxury hospitality."”

Located at the northeast corner of Bay Street and Yorkville Avenue, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Toronto is a landmark mixed-use development featuring a world class hotel and 210 private residences in two sleek 55- and 26-storey towers.

The iconic development is 85 per cent sold, with a varied selection of suites in each tower available for purchase.
“"The discerning international buyer of the penthouse suite was attracted to all that this landmark project has to offer,” said Alan Menkes, President of the High-Rise Residential Division of Menkes Developments, the managing partner of the project."

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Toronto boasts the city's finest location, with stunning architecture, impeccably designed living spaces and globally renowned service standards.”

Designed by architectsAlliance, the 55-storey West Residence tower is comprised of a 253-room Four Seasons Hotel on the first 20 floors, and 100 Private Residences above. The 26-storey East Residence tower has 110 Private Residences and is connected to its sister building by an elevated pedestrian bridge. Both towers share a courtyard designed by internationally-renowned Claude Cormier Landscape Architects.

The Private Residences' suite designs and finishes have been created by Brian Gluckstein Design Planning. Featuring generous room configurations and timeless appointments, Private Residences range in size from 1,000 to 9,000 sq. ft. and start at $1.9 million.

Yabu Pushelberg has designed the Hotel and Private Residence lobbies, the spa, ballroom/conference facilities and hotel rooms. Residence owners will have access to the services and amenities of the Four Seasons Hotel, including a 28,000 sq. ft. spa, health club, pool, 24-hour concierge, in-residence dining and housekeeping. The spa will feature a sky-lit lap pool, whirlpool, private treatment rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness club.

Construction on Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Toronto is well underway with first occupancies and the hotel opening scheduled for summer 2012.

The developer is Bay-Yorkville Developments Ltd., a joint venture between Menkes Developments Ltd., Lifetime Developments and Alcion Ventures. Menkes Construction Ltd. is building both the hotel and residences.

For more information about Four Seasons Private Residences Toronto, please visit www.yorkvilleresidences.com.
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Four Seasons Private Residences Toronto are not owned, developed or sold by Four Seasons Hotels Limited or its affiliates (Four Seasons). Bay-Yorkville Developments Limited uses the Four Seasons trademarks and trade names under a license from Four Seasons Hotels Limited. The marks "FOUR SEASONS”, "FOUR SEASONS HOTELS AND RESORTS," any combination thereof and the Tree Design are registered trademarks of Four Seasons Hotels Limited in Canada and U.S.A. and of Four Seasons Hotels (Barbados) Ltd. elsewhere.

We are privileged to represent many blue chip clients,
as their PR Consultants in Canada.

In that context, I wanted to let you know about one of them….MCMILLAN, LLP, who on Tuesday, Nov. 9/10, announced they were creating a new firm, by combining with Lang, Michener LLP.

Below my signature, you’ll note our News Release (Nov. 9/10) approach …. and just 3, of many examples of “COVERAGE GENERATED” in print, online, broadcast and social media…

Here’s the Nov.10/10…. GLOBE & MAIL REPORT ON BUSINESS, FINANCIAL POST and the TORONTO STAR; McMillan’s CEO Andrew Kent was also on BNN TV on Nov 9/10.

Always available for our Team to be of help to you. We are just a phone call or email away.

NEWS RELEASE:

MCMILLAN AND LANG MICHENER COMBINE TO CREATE A NEW CANADIAN BUSINESS LAW FIRM WITH NATIONAL REACH

TORONTO, November 9, 2010---McMillan LLP and Lang Michener LLP today announced that they have reached an agreement to combine, effective January 1, 2011, to form a new leading Canadian law firm specializing in the needs of business with top legal talent and client-focused service.

McMillan and Lang Michener have chosen to continue under the single name: McMillan. The new firm will rank among the leading Canadian law firms based on size and reach, offering clients a more robust national presence and stronger international ties.

“This is a great opportunity for McMillan, Lang Michener and for our combined current and future clients,” said Andrew Kent, CEO. “The combined firm, the new McMillan, stands as a truly modern, ambitious law firm with enhanced scope, a deeper bench and a broad range of expertise.”

“For our clients this means expanded service and greater opportunity. For our partners, lawyers and staff it means the chance to participate in and contribute to a growth-oriented enterprise as we build together for the future,” said Robert Cranston, Managing Partner, Lang Michener, Eastern Division.

“This represents an ideal partnership – one that honours and extends the ethic of excellence and expertise upon which Lang Michener and its predecessor firms were founded,” said François Tougas, Chair, Lang Michener, Western Division.

The combined firm will have close to 400 lawyers, with offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal, and Hong Kong and have complementary product offerings creating numerous opportunities for cross-collaboration and expansion.

The new firm will provide a broader mix of services and specialties to clients from more offices across Canada and in the critical growth markets of Asia and Latin America. The firm is poised to bolster its presence across a number of key industry sectors including: mining, forest products, oil and gas, financial services, transportation, technology and communications, manufacturing, automotive and more.

“This is just the beginning,” added Kent. “Our combined law firm will be defined by a focus on geographic expansion, continued growth in product offerings and professional excellence. In the weeks, months and years to come our ambition is clear: To stand as the best and first choice in Canada for business clients seeking first class legal advice, support and service.”

For further information or to request an interview, please contact:

David Eisenstadt
Partner
The Communications Group Inc.
(416) 696-9900 extension 36
1-800-267-4476 extension 36
Email: deisenstadt@tcgpr.com

About McMillan LLP
McMillan is a leading Canadian business law firm distinguished by broad experience and recognized expertise in major business sectors and acknowledged leadership in competition/antitrust, corporate restructuring and insolvency and financial services. Founded in 1903 by Newton W. Rowell and together with the leadership of Gordon McMillan and Bill Binch, the firm has been committed to client service and professional excellence for over 100 years. In 2005, McMillan Binch inToronto combined with Mendelsohn in Montréal to offer national legal services and, in 2009, McMillan and Calgary’s Thackray Burgess combined to create McMillan LLP. Today, McMillan provides definitive legal advice to businesses, financial institutions, governments and private individuals in Canada, the United States and internationally. For more information, please visit our website at www.mcmillan.ca.

About Lang Michener LLP
Lang Michener is a leader in Canada's legal profession and has been for more than 80 years. Our international firm, with offices in Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver and Hong Kong, has over 200 professionals who provide effective, innovative solutions to Canadian and international clients. Lang Michener was founded in 1927 when Roland Michener and Daniel Lang began their partnership in Toronto. The Right Honourable Roland Michener was Speaker of the House of Commons and Governor-General of Canada. In 1989, Lang Michener merged with Vancouver law firm Lawrence & Shaw to become the national law firm we are today. We have played a major role in shaping Canada’s economic and political institutions, and understand the competitive global needs of our country’s leading companies and industries. For more information, please visit our website at www.langmichener.ca.

Meet Bay Street’s newest national law firm

JEFF GRAY — LAW REPORTER
From Wednesday's Globe and Mail
Published Tuesday, Nov. 09, 2010 6:14PM EST
Last updated Tuesday, Nov. 09, 2010 6:15PM EST

It was codenamed Project Grayson – a boring label meant to throw the curious off the scent – and began about a year ago with a meeting between managing partners from two law firms at a downtown Toronto Starbucks. Now, the project is a reality.

The name of Lang Michener LLP will die as the firm merges with McMillan LLP in a move that creates a newBay Street player with 400 lawyers, offices across the country – and big ambitions.

“He had a coffee, I had a hot chocolate,” said Robert Cranston, Lang Michener’s eastern managing partner, who suggested the meeting in a call to McMillan chief executive officer Andrew Kent. “That’s how it all started. Nothing glamorous.”

It was the first date, both firms say, of a marriage officially unveiled Tuesday that aims to create a serious new competitor among the country’s top-tier law firms.

The two mid-sized firms have Toronto offices a few floors apart in Brookfield Place. With 200 lawyers each across the country, the merger creates a new national organization that rivals Ogilvy Renault LLP in size. (By comparison, heavyweight Blake Cassels & Graydon LLP has 550 lawyers.)

While head count by no means equals influence on Bay Street, the new McMillan LLP hopes to put its new size to good use, ramping up efforts on behalf of Canadian companies investing abroad and seeking opportunities to compete for global clients.

The move, which takes effect Jan. 1, may spell the end of Lang Michener’s name – which honours co-founders former governor-general Roland Michener and senator Daniel Lang – but Mr. Cranston said it does not come from a place of weakness. Lang Michener’s leadership had long been talking about a merger to take the firm to the next level, said Mr. Cranston, who becomes the new firm’s Toronto managing partner.

McMillan was an obvious strategic fit. Lang Michener has offices in Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Hong Kong, while McMillan has shingles hanging in Toronto, Calgary and Montreal. The merger allows the two firms to scale up dramatically in Toronto, as well combine their resources to ensure a presence across the country.

Key to the deal for McMillan is clearly Lang Michener’s large Vancouver arm. It was created in 1989, when Lang Michener swallowed the Vancouver firm Lawrence & Shaw, but it remained a separate operation within the firm. In the 1990s, it shrank with the commodity markets on which its business depends, but has since boomed, doubling in size to 85 lawyers.

François Tougas, chairman of Lang Michener’s western division, said the firm’s Canadian mining clients are increasingly pursuing investments and financing overseas, while foreign investors shopping the globe for mining deals are also shopping for legal advice.

Getting bigger, and doing it quickly, was the only way to compete with established British and U.S. firms in this sector around the world, he said. “If you want to play on that field, you need a certain scope and scale.”

McMillan has been on a merger-fed growth spurt in recent years, transforming itself into a firm with more of a national reach by swallowing Mendelsohn in Montreal in 2005 and much of Calgary’s Thackray Burgess last year.

Mr. Kent, who becomes the new McMillan LLP’s CEO when the merger takes effect, said the firm’s latest move reflects the need to get bigger in order to deal with the increasingly complexity of the legal world.

“The demands in the marketplace on law firms keep going up,” he said, pointing out that law firms in cities across North American have become bigger and more complex organizations in the past two decades.

Such a major merger is not without pitfalls. For example, sometimes clients must be jettisoned when two law firms merge, as it often turns out they are either fierce competitors or even at each other’s throats in a legal battle. In this case, Mr. Kent said, the two firms are virtually conflict- free because many of their strong practice areas do not overlap.

There is also the issue of dissenting partners. Big mergers sometimes result in splinter groups. But in this case, of the 170 partners from both firms who voted on the deal, only three objected and have decided to leave, according to the firm’s managing partners. (Neither Mr. Kent nor Mr. Cranston would reveal who they were.)

At least one rival says the move makes sense. Hugh MacKinnon, managing partner of Bennett Jones LLP, said firms that want to be truly national need to take advantage of economies of scale.

“If a firm is willing to deal with the increased business and other conflict issues inherent in having multiple domestic offices, it makes sense to be as broad as possible and enjoy the benefits that come with economies of scale and regional diversification,” Mr. MacKinnon said. “In this case, I think it’s a good move by both firms.”

Building a bigger McMillan

Peter J. Thompson/National Post
From left, Bob Cranston of Lang Michener, Andrew Kent of McMillan, and Francois Tougas of Lang Michener. McMillan is merging with Lang Michener on Jan. 1.

It began with a chat over coffee and hot chocolate. Robert Cranston, managing partner of the eastern division of Lang Michener LLP met Andrew Kent, chief executive of McMillan LLP, at a downtown Toronto Starbucks earlier this year.

The two lawyers got together to launch discussions leading to the merger of their firms. Those talks have resulted in Tuesday's announcement that McMillan and Lang Michener are merging to create a new national business law firm with about 400 lawyers and offices in five Canadian cities and Hong Kong.

The merger takes effect on Jan. 1, with the new firm using the single name McMillan.

The talks were initiated by Lang Michener, which had been looking for a way to deepen its bench strength. Clients were urging the firm, which has offices in Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Hong Kong, to expand so it could offer a greater range of services, Mr. Cranston said.

It didn't take long for Lang Michener to flag McMillan as an obvious partner. Toronto-based McMillan had already demonstrated its desire to grow by recently merging with firms in Montreal and Calgary.

"We had looked at McMillan before that meeting and we saw from a high level that this was a very good fit," Mr. Cranston recalls. "Our clients were telling us that we could grow our work if we were in Calgary and Montreal."

Mr. Kent also saw the potential mesh. Despite the firm's previous mergers, McMillan wasn't interested in growing just for the sake of growing. Any deal would have to improve service for clients, Mr. Kent insisted.

"This transaction is true to that," Mr. Kent said. "We really do see it as 2 + 2 = 5."

Mr. Kent will serve as chief executive of the new firm. Although Lang Michener governs itself using the traditional partnership structure, the new McMillan will continue under the "quasi-corporate" management structure the old McMillan adopted in 1998.

Managers from both firms insist they mesh not just in terms of geography, but also of culture and practice area. Lang Michener serves a lot of natural resource clients in Vancouver -- particularly miners, which account for almost half of that office's revenue.

Lang Michener's Toronto office will beef up the new firm's strength in business law, insurance matters and public markets work, while its Ottawa office offers opportunity for growth in government-related projects. For its part, McMillan contributes oil and gas experience from Calgary, while the firm's Toronto office offers experience in financial institutions matters, automotive work, 3-P infrastructure projects and competition files.

The fit continues with clients. Francois Tougas, chairman of Lang Michener's western division, said both firms were surprised at how few conflicts arise from the merger. Whenever firms consider merging, they need to sort out whether they are currently representing adverse parties in transactions or disputes.

The new McMillan expects to use its national platform to attract more Canadian M&A business, Mr. Kent said. "If you look at the two firms, neither of us has been a big M&A firm. ... That would be a specific thing we'd like to have."

Mr. Tougas added that the larger firm will build on Lang Michener's experience with its Hong Kong office to develop some international business. For example, the Vancouver office is already doing a significant amount of work helping South American mining clients access North American capital markets, he said.

Lang Michener has used its Hong Kong base to develop business in Beijing and South China. Mr. Tougas said the firm is now targeting India. "Ten years from now we'll be talking about how big India is going to be for us. Bricks and mortar will probably be a question five years from now."

McMillan's roots go back to 1903. It was founded by Newton Rowell, and grew under the leadership of Gordon McMillan and Bill Binch. Lang Michener was founded in 1927 when Roland Michener and Daniel Lang began their partnership in Toronto.

Legal eagles McMillan, Lang Michener merge under the McMillan moniker

Published On Tue Nov 09 2010

Business Reporter

Two of Canada’s most historic law firms have joined forces to create a business law-focused powerhouse with an eye to expanding into Asia and Latin America.

McMillan LLP and Lang Michener LLP announced yesterday they will combine into a single entity under the name McMillan, effective Jan. 1.

The combined firm will have close to 400 lawyers in offices across Canada and in Hong Kong with “complementary product offerings creating numerous opportunities for cross-collaboration and expansion” in several industry sectors, the firms said in a release.

The new McMillan will be the 12th largest law firm in the country, ahead of Bennett Jones LLP and just behind Ogilvy Renault LLP, according to this year’s rankings in Canadian Lawyer magazine. McMillan is currently tied with Goodmans LLP for 20th place, while Lang Michener is ranked 22nd.

The merger is a sign of difficult economic times, said Chi Carmody, a law professor at the University of Western Ontario.

“They’re doing business in an incredibly competitive market, so Canadian law firms are having to look at streamlining their operations,” he said.

Both firms have offices in Toronto and Lang Michener is also located in Ottawa, Vancouver and Hong Kong, while McMillan has offices in Montreal and Calgary.

“The new firm will rank among the leading Canadian law firms based on size and reach, offering clients a more robust national presence and stronger international ties,” the companies said in a news release.

It is set to bolster its presence across a number of industry sectors including mining, forest products, oil and gas, financial services, transportation, technology and communications, manufacturing, automotive and more, the release added.

“The combined firm, the new McMillan, stands as a truly modern, ambitious law firm with enhanced scope, a deeper bench and a broad range of expertise,” said McMillan CEO Andrew Kent, who will run the new company.

It will provide a broader mix of services and specialties to clients from more offices across Canada and in the growth markets of Asia and Latin America, he said.

McMillan LLP, founded in 1903, has expertise in competition, antitrust, corporate restructuring and insolvency law and financial services in Canada, the United States and abroad.

Lang Michener was founded in 1927 when Roland Michener, who later became governor general, and Daniel Lang began their partnership in Toronto.

Ralph Rabinowicz, C.A.
Managing Partner
Kestenberg • Rabinowicz • Partners LLP
Markham, ON

The message is your business

David Eisenstadt, Founding Partner, The Communications Group Inc., Financial Post Published:
Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Interviews with print, online, radio and TV reporters can be an uncomfortable experience for business leaders -- they interrupt hectic schedules and can result in coverage of events you may prefer were left in the background.

Nevertheless, if you're a business leader you owe it to your shareholders, your staff, and your customers to enhance your organization's visibility in the marketplace.

Remember, however, that you are merely the subject of the interview. If you know what you are doing, you needn't become a media hit-and-run victim.

Here are some recommendations to help you survive those tough interviews, whether live at a news conference, on the street in a scrum or by phone: - Prepare for all major print, broadcast and online interviews. Don't assume your closeness to the situation means you've got all the answers. For example, it could matter very little to you to know how long your organization has been in its present location -- but it will seem obvious to a reader, listener or viewer that you should know. - Vocalize your responses in advance. Knowing a subject thoroughly and crafting a written response in the clearest, simplest terms are helpful. But you won't really know how clearly you can explain something vocally until you do just that. Start with a sympathetic listener on your home turf. - Supply background material beforehand. It helps an interviewer to have explanatory information on details he or she may not have known enough about to ask. Your function should be to comment on issues and situations, not to conduct a seminar on what those issues are for the interviewer. - Maintain some control from the beginning. In a face-to-face interview, begin if there's time by asking the interviewer about his or her background. It will make the following conversation sound less like the interrogation of a hostile witness. You can't do this effectively in a phone interview. - If the interviewer is a novice, it helps to reinforce your credentials as the expert in this matter. Don't treat the novice reporter with disdain because it will come back to haunt you. If the interviewer is highly knowledgeable, you've been forewarned. - Don't be misled by the apparent simplicity of questions. If you are worth being interviewed, there is news value in quoting you directly. - Don't answer hypothetical questions. You might turn them around by explaining what your organization's policy has been in the past, but there's nothing to be gained by locking yourself into a position based on a hypothetical situation. - Don't presume to redirect the story line. You may well prefer news coverage of something unrelated to what the editor or reporter wants to write or broadcast about. The interviewer may listen politely, but if what you say is considered a non-story, you've wasted time -- yours and the interviewer's. - Never buffalo a reporter, even a novice. You'll only get away with it as long as the interview itself lasts. Eventually, your comments will cross the desk of a much more worldly editor or producer, who will recognize bafflegab for what it is. Story killed!
A final thought: If you expect to be the subject of media attention on a regular basis, consider media training. Its personal development at its best and if you learn how to deal with the news media, you can deal with anyone.

--- - David Eisenstadt, Fellow PRSA, Fellow CPRS, is Founding Partner with The Communications Group Inc., a Toronto-based public relations consulting firm serving corporate clients across Canada. www.tcgpr.com

http://www.nationalpost.com/related/topics/story.html?id=1745208

TCG Managing Partner Rhoda Eisenstadt accepted the BILD award for Best Public Relations Campaign (Low Rise) for its work on behalf of The Mikey Network, Heathwood Homes and the Heron Group of Companies. Shown (r-l) are Heathwood Homes’ COO Housing, Bob Finnigan and Eva Szypulska

The Building Industry and Land Development Association of Toronto (BILD) has awarded the 2009 Best PR Campaign (Low-Rise) to The Communications Group Inc. for its work representing The Mikey Network, Heathwood Homes and The Heron Group of Companies.

With more than 1,400 member companies, BILD is the voice of the land development, home building and professional renovation industries in the Greater GTA. BILD is affiliated with the Ontario and Canadian Home Builders' Associations.

Heathwood Homes, one of The Heron Group of Companies, is a Greater Toronto Area homebuilder with a reputation for offering more-than-expected detailing and quality craftsmanship at a range of prices. The company was formed in 1991 as a joint venture partnership between Heron and Daniels Capital Corporation. For nearly 30 years, Heron Homes has excelled at meeting and exceeding homeowner expectations in fine communities across Southern Ontario.

The Mikey Network was named for Mike Salem – a partner in Heathwood Homes and The Heron Group of Companies. In the summer of 2002, Mike was golfing in the Muskokas. He hit his first shot, drove up to his second and then his heart skipped a beat. Miles away from help, Mike passed away doing what he loved best, playing golf. In 2003, The Mikey Network was established by Heathwood and Heron in memory of its friend and partner. No one knows whether a defibrillator could have helped to save Mike’s life, but in his name, The Mikey Network places Mikeys in as many public places as possible, so that other cardiac arrest victims may have a second chance. To date, over 600 Mikeys have been funded and placed throughout the GTA…..GO Transit, Variety Village, Toronto Fire Service, Toronto District School Board, Tim Horton Childrens Foundation (Camps), to mention a few.

THE CANADIAN TENORS PERFORMED - THE RESIDENCES AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, TORONTO - March 4, 2009

The Canadian Tenors dazzled a crowd of nearly 300 at a special presentation at Roy Thompson Hall hosted by the developers of The Residences At The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. Guests were treated to an intimate concert performance as the project, well under construction, was showcased and clearly visible across the street. In addition, Bentley, another of the worlds most trusted luxury brands, displayed for the first time in Canada two new automobiles. Shown at the piano is Michael Beckley, Senior Vice President of Development for Marriott International Inc. owner of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and (l-r) Remigio Pereira and Clifton Murray, The Canadian Tenors; Tina Amato, Vice President, Baker Real Estate Incorporated; Victor Micallef, The Canadian Tenors; Stuart Cochrane, Regional General Manager, Bentley Motors; Fraser Walters, The Canadian Tenors; Steve Gutfreund, Senior Vice President, Graywood Developments Ltd. and Tim Terceira, General Manager of the soon-to-be opened Ritz-Carlton, Toronto.

120 Trucks to Participate in a Continuous Concrete Pour at
Four Seasons Private Residences

CLICK to see the movie on the Concrete Pour: (Please wait for loading the complete clip)

WHAT:
• Over a 12-14 hour period, 120 cement trucks will convene at six different pouring locations at the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Bay/Yorkville site in Toronto.

• 150 construction workers, 120 cement trucks per hour will unload concrete in a continuous pour.

• To allow for the simultaneous concrete pour, traffic will be stopped on Yorkville Ave., between Yonge St. & Bay St. Bay St. will be closed south from Scollard St. to Bloor St.

WHERE:
The 6th level of the Yorkville-Cumberland Parking Lot (between Yorkville and Cumberland) is the “Command Centre” and offers the best view of the overall pouring process.
Access to the parking lot is at the Cumberland Entrance.

CONTACT:
Wendy Petcoff/Beth Merrick/David Eisenstadt
The Communications Group Inc.
(416) 696-9900 ext. 29/40/36
wpetcoff@tcgpr.com/bmerrick@tcgpr.com/deisenstadt@tcgpr.com
Wendy Petcoff’s cell (on-site): (647) 339-5049

IPREX RECRUITS TORONTO’S THE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP INC. AND BOOSTS NEW REAL ESTATE PRACTICE

ATLANTA, GA – 8 October, 2008

The Communications Group Inc (TCG) based in Toronto, Canada, is the latest firm elected to IPREX, the worldwide corporation of independent PR firms.

TCG (www.tcgpr.com) has built a first-class national reputation in the real estate sector, currently representing clients such as: Residences at the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Toronto, Daniels Corporation and Aspen Ridge Homes.

In addition, the firm has a well-regarded high-tech practice, working with such companies as McAfee, Inc. and OKI Printing Solutions. TCG also represents professional services firms such as WeirFoulds LLP and has worked with food service/hospitality companies such as Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

TCG complements the corporate, financial and government relations work of IPREX partner firm Wertheim & Company, also in Toronto, and adds new skills to the organization’s wider Canadian operation (Hedlin Lauder Communications, in Calgary, AB and Peak Communicators, in Vancouver, BC).

IPREX President North America, Gwinavere Johnston (JohnstonWells PR, Denver) said, “Several of us have first-hand experience of TCG’s professionalism, and are looking forward to expanding our working relationship with them. Under TCG’s Managing Partner, Rhoda Eisenstadt, their team brings new perspectives to our Canadian network and will play an important role in the IPREX Real Estate Communications Counsel we have just launched.”

TCG Founding Partner David Eisenstadt brings considerable international experience to IPREX, having served as International Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Public Relations Society of America Counselors Academy and as Chairman of Pinnacle Worldwide.

About IPREX
IPREX (www.iprex.com) is one of the world’s major corporations of independent public relations firms. Founded in 1983 its 63 partners have 84 offices in 28 countries throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific, with annual revenues of $112m. Its 1,000 professionals provide a comprehensive range of services for some of the world’s most successful companies

IPREX media enquiries
David Watson: davidw@campaignteam.biz +44 1273 845462

IPREX
Bobbie Goodwin: experts@iprex.com +1 770 763 5846

PIZZA NOVA MAKES RECORD DONATION TO VARIETY VILLAGE 86,000 PIZZAS SOLD IN 10 HOURS

TORONTO – May, 07

It’s official! Pizza Nova's 8th annual That's Amore Pizza For Kids fundraising event in support of Variety Village - The Children's Charity raised a record-breaking total $85,962 – that’s just under 86,000 pizzas sold in only 10 hours!
Pizza Nova's Executive Vice President Domenic Primucci (sixth from left) along with Pizza Nova employees, presented a cheque to Variety's President/CEO Lynne Wallace at the annual cheque presentation celebrated with Variety Ambassadors (second row l-r) Matthew Hoffman, Cynthia Berringer (front row l-r), Joshua Bell, Joshua MacDonald, Emily Bell and Justyn Bell. Over the past eight years this Pizza Nova initiative has raised over $500,000 for Variety.

About Pizza Nova
Founded in 1963, Toronto-based Pizza Nova is a family-operated business with over 100 locations in Southern Ontario. Specializing in fresh toppings, Pizza Nova serves over 4 million pizzas annually, and offers a wide range of menu items including salads, lasagna, panzerotti, toasted sandwiches, chicken wings and jumbo spicy green olives. Pizza Nova locations offer delivery, pickup and some sit-down service. Visit HYPERLINK "http://www.pizzanova.com/" www.pizzanova.com.

YOUNG TRANS-CANADA BIKE RIDER RAISES MONEY FOR MIKEY NETWORK DEFIBRILLATORS

TORONTO, May 31, 2006

Mark Longo, a university architecture student, is partway through a trans-Canada solo bike trip that will see him arrive in Kenora, Ontario, by Thursday, June 1/06. Mark is currently traveling east along Highway #1. He left Winnipeg this afternoon and will be stopping in Reynolds, Manitoba, tonight.

See bike trip progress on http://www.transcanada06.mlongo.com.

Mark is riding to raise money for The Mikey Network, a charity that places Public Access Defibrillators (PADs) in public high-risk areas across the Greater Toronto Area with the hope of providing cardiac arrest victims a second chance at life.

Starting in Victoria, B.C. on May 1, Mark has been battling high winds and less than ideal weather since he crossed the Rockies on May 13th. It will take him approximately eight weeks to complete the journey, which is expected to end July 9 in St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador.

Through his efforts, Mark expects to raise $175,000 -- enough to buy 50 defibrillators for The Mikey Network. The charity is named after Michael Hart Salem, a former executive with Heathwood Homes and the former business partner of Mark's father Silvio Longo.

Mark is currently a fourth year student at the University of Waterloo, in Waterloo, Ontario.

Individual donations to help support Mark's TransCanada ride and The Mikey Network can be made at http://www.mikeynetwork.com.

For more information on the TransCanada06 ride and to follow Mark's daily updates as he makes his way across The Prairies and into Ontario, visit the Transcanada06 Web site.

PIZZA NOVA INTRODUCES FRESH BRUSCHETTA TO THE MIX! (Breath mints not included)

TORONTO – April 19/06

Pizza Nova is expanding its menu again by adding a healthy new side item – fresh bruschetta mix! For only $2.99, patrons at any one of Pizza Nova’s 100 locations, can order an 8-oz. container, the perfect addition to complement a salad, top your garlic bread, or to be used as a dip.
Pizza Nova’s bruschetta mix consists of freshly diced tomatoes, prepared with a homemade special blend of herbs, roasted garlic, diced Spanish onions and extra virgin olive oil.

“Our menu items are a direct response to our customers tastes and preferences,” said Pizza Nova’s Vice President of Marketing Domenic Primucci. “Since our bruschetta pizza is the fastest growing specialty pizza, we decided to offer our customers a side version of this popular menu item.”

About Pizza Nova
Founded in 1963, Toronto-based Pizza Nova is a family-operated business with 100 locations in Southern Ontario. Specializing in fresh toppings, Pizza Nova serves over 3 million pizzas annually, and offers a wide range of menu items including salads, lasagna, panzerotti, sandwiches, chicken wings, jumbo spicy green olives and fresh bruschetta mix. Pizza Nova locations offer delivery, pickup and some sit-down service. Visit www.pizzanova.com.

The Daniels Corporation will offer the units below the average market-selling price under its 'Triple 5' Downpayment Assistance Program. The project will receive $1.61 million from the federal and provincial governments under the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program (AHP).

Raking the poured concrete and flanking Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Hon. John Gerretsen (third from left) and Dino Chiesa, Chairman of the Board, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (second from right) are executives from The Daniels Corporation (l-r) Tom Dutton, Senior Vice President; John Daniels, Founder and Chair; Mitchell Cohen, President and Martin Blake, Vice President, Project Implementation.

Former U.S. president Bill Clinton wows crowd at Toronto fundraiser
(Ont-Clinton-Speech)
Source: Toronto Sun

MaRCH 6, 2006

TORONTO (CP) _ More than 1,750 of Ontario's movers and shakers stood and applauded Bill Clinton as he took the podium.
With his signature smile and a wave, the 42nd U.S. president spoke Sunday at the Toronto Centre for the Arts.

He spoke at a fundraiser for the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Centre, an organization that strives to end anti-Semitism. Attorney General Michael Bryant, Toronto Mayor David Miller, federal NDP Leader Jack Layton and Ontario Opposition Leader John Tory were among those at the sold-out event.

The event raised nearly $1.3 million.

Clinton drew applause when he said peace in the Middle East exists as a real possibility.

"We don't need to throw up our hands in despair,'' he said.

"We can't stop believing that in the end we can build a garden in the desert because I believe we can.''

In his 45-minute speech, Clinton focused on trouble in the Middle East, specifically the Hamas leadership in the Palestinian territories.

"They won because people think they are harder working, more efficient,'' he said, noting a majority of Palestinians say they desire peace with Israel.

"It doesn't mean we can just ignore a core commitment to terrorism and the destruction of Israel,'' Clinton said.

"Democracy is more than winning an election.''

Built in the late 1870’s, these buildings are in desperate need of major improvements, both inside and out. The planned improvements include a new roof, new windows, up-to-date electrical systems, exterior brick restoration and upgraded retail space that will provide our customers with the finest of gourmet foods. Our goal is to restore and expand these buildings to the same high-quality and standard of the Summerhill LCBO at the North Toronto Station.

THE HARVEST WAGON, ALL THE BEST FINE FOODS, OLLIFFE’S and PISCES GOURMET SEAFOOD will continue to operate while the work proceeds. Construction has already begun on the new MBCo ROSEDALE CAFÉ and is scheduled to open in July, 2006. MBCo provides a “European” culinary experience, centred around quality and great taste. In March, All The Best Party Store will move to the rear of the Cheese Shop and construction will begin as the former Party Store will become the new location of Olliffe’s Butcher Shop. Olliffe’s new store is scheduled to open in June, 2006, but they will operate in their current location for the time being. Early next year, Pisces Gourmet Seafood will move to a new store fronting on Price Street, next to MBCo Rosedale Café. The Harvest Wagon and All the Best Fine Foods will then expand their retail space significantly in their current locations.

The Shops of Scrivener Square will be restored and expanded by Woodcliffe Corporation, under the supervision of The City of Toronto Heritage Preservation Services. The improved and expanded retail stores are being designed by the internationally-recognized design firm, Gervais Harding & Associates of Montréal. We apologize for any inconvenience you may experience during construction, but rest assured that every effort is being made to ensure disruptions are minimized. The work is being phased to keep all the shops operating continuously during construction.

Over the next month, you will notice a new signage program that will direct you to your favourite Shop and we will continue to update you on our progress. We look forward to completing our work as soon as possible to better serve our loyal customers and friends in the future, as we have in the past.

TETRA PAK LAUNCHES CREATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGE IN SCHOOL ROOMS ACROSS CANADA
Program Combines Education, Art to Raise Awareness of Recycling, Waste Reduction

MONTRÉAL, PQ – January 16, 2006

Tetra Pak Canada today launched the First Annual “Get Your Creative Juices Going” National Classroom Art Challenge.
Said Tetra Pak president Evelyn Watson, “We initiated this program for students across Canada to conceive innovative and creative classroom art projects using a minimum of 500 empty Tetra Pak cartons and other recyclable materials. An educational curriculum was developed specifically for the challenge and focuses on the subject of waste management and recycling.”

The Art Challenge begins today and runs through April 15/06. Winners will be announced May 10/06.

“We are committed to environmental responsibility and the goal of this program is twofold: to challenge students’ creativity and to raise awareness of environmental issues in waste reduction and diversion,” added Ms Watson. “Using art and creativity as a tool, we hope to educate Canada’s youth on the importance of preserving the environment”.

A distinguished Judging Committee from the arts community will select winning submissions from five regions across the country.
The Committee includes:
• Lance Carlson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alberta College of Art and Design
• Dr Janos Fedak, Head, Department of Fine Arts, University of Prince Edward Island
• Kenneth Lum, Professor, Fine Arts Department, University of British Columbia
• Frederic Metz, Director, Graphic Design Program, University of Québec
• Lenore Richards, Dean, Faculty of Design, Ontario College of Art and Design

Criteria for judging submissions are based on creativity, ingenuity, teamwork and cooperation and innovative uses of a variety of recyclable materials.
One prize will be awarded in each of the five regions with each prize consisting of four computers, books, and software with a retail value of $12,000. Each of the winning classes in the five regions will receive a prize for each student in that class consisting of backpacks, software and cordless phone valued at $180 per prize.

The program is open to all schools in Canada. Schools and classes can enter as often as they like. For further details, or to enter the challenge, visit www.tetrapakcreativechallenge.com.

ABOUT TETRA PAK
Tetra Pak is a leading producer of processing and packaging systems for liquid foods. With 85 employees, Tetra Pak Canada is based in Richmond Hill, Ontario with a satellite office in Montréal, PQ. Tetra Pak Canada is part of the Tetra Pak Group which has approximately 21,000 employees working in 58 markets worldwide. In the past year, Tetra Pak sold 120 billion packages, transporting over 60 billion litres of liquid food to consumers.

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION - RHODA EISENSTADT

COMMUNICATION SUCCESS
SPECIAL ISSUE 2005

How does a teaching career morph into managing partner of one of Canada’s largest independently owned public relations consulting firms? For Rhoda Eisenstadt of The Communications Group, Inc. (TCG), the metamorphosis began when she was on maternity leave with her first child. “My husband, David, had started a communications firm and someone was needed to do research for the company’s consultants. I stepped in, learned a lot about the business and stayed.”

Rhoda’s experience as a teacher proved invaluable in her transition to public relations. “I have keen organization skills, know how to multi-task and think creatively. In communications, as in teaching, we reach out to people to get points across.”

Toronto-based TCG serves Canadian and multi-national clients from numerous business sectors through its relationship with PR firms around the world. Rhoda focuses primarily on real estate. “We work with developers/builders, their advertising agencies, and marketing and sales people to create PR strategies that support marketing objectives.”

This involves project and corporate positioning. “We help clients sell out their communities as quickly as possible. Our job starts before a community is opened, to well after owners move in. We handle publicity, events, newsletter creation, registrant/purchaser letters, homeowner manuals, how-to-guides for buying a home – all non-advertising communications.”

To heighten public awareness of the corporate entity, Rhoda says, “We work with clients on branding initiatives that clearly communicate their competitive advantage. This might involve presenting them as industry experts through speaking opportunities and bylined columns (TCG writers ghostwrite speeches and articles), or setting up company-wide affinity programs that encourage repeat business. Media training is another service we provide to help clients communicate effectively. We also generate public awareness about corporate citizenship through publicity and sponsorship programs.”

Rhoda says the past year has been particularly exciting. “There are close to 300 high-rise projects on the go in Toronto, so competition is fierce. We are fortunate to work with the best low-rise and high-rise developers and builders in the GTA, who recognize they must position themselves in a distinctive way.”

TCG prides itself on non-conventional approaches. “For the recent opening of 100 Yorkville, we hired paparazzi and people to escort VIPs along a red carpet to attract attention. Prior to the opening of London on the Esplanade, we held a pub night for people who live and work in the area to heighten awareness and help build the prospective purchaser list.”

The Communications Group, Inc., 65 Overlea Blvd., Fourth Floor, Toronto, ON M4H 1P1, Tel: (416) 696-9900, Fax: (416) 696-9897.
At prestigious Kilgour Estate, TCG arranged for a glasswork exhibit fro, the Sandra Ainsley Gallery. “This event helped create excitement about the project’s second phase and attracted patrons of the arts.” Another attention-getting strategy involved a beach volleyball tournament with Canadian-ranked players at Waterview to showcase the condominium’s recreational lifestyle.

An example of TCG’s “guerrilla-type” tactics involves dressing young people in T-shirts emblazoned with a project’s logo and sending them out in a cool convertible through Toronto’s club area and financial district. “They talk to people who fit the hip, first-time purchaser profile and hand out promotional CDs.”

Rhoda is quick to point out that TCG’s success is the result of teamwork. “We’re like-minded individuals who think and work outside the box. We do what needs to be done to best serve our clients’ objectives.”

POTENTIAL BUYERS HIT THE RED CARPET
Creativity goes into marketing
Some stunts raise eyebrows

Dec. 10, 2005. 01:00 AM

SHELLY SANDERS GREER
SPECIAL TO THE STAR

Although the red carpet is generally reserved for stars and VIPs, condo purchasers and prospective buyers at 100 Yorkville got the royal treatment last July — paparazzi and all.

It's a new twist on publicity and it's working, explains Rhoda Eisenstadt, partner with her husband, David, in The Communications Group Inc., which orchestrated the red carpet event for 100 Yorkville on Bellair, being developed by Invar Building Corp.

Between 200 and 300 people attend events like these, increasing awareness and generating sales, she explains.
"The GTA is a very competitive marketplace. I'm told there are well over 200 highrise projects going on in the GTA right now.

"Consumers are also well informed. They've done their homework. They're savvy, which is great to see. For these two reasons we have to be creative in how we get attention.

"We've done 24 unusual, creative publicity events in September and October alone — a huge increase over previous years."
Eisenstadt explains that the 100 Yorkville event was carefully designed to reflect the market for this particular project— affluent empty nesters.

"The sales office is elegant and in an historic building" (the old Mount Sinai Hospital site), she says. "We put the red carpet from the sales office to the sidewalk and hired paparazzi. We had models escort people up the carpet and the paparazzi took their photos. People loved it. There was a buzz the whole evening."

Another summer event Eisenstadt's company co-ordinated, this time for Monarch Construction's Waterview Condominiums, included a volleyball tournament, which resulted in television coverage. Two beach volleyball tournaments were held featuring nationally ranked Canadian players, male and female.

"Waterview is all about living by the water and having an active, recreational lifestyle," Eisenstadt explains. "So we put a couple of teams together and while they played, people walked or cycled by. And this tournament became a background to the weather on two TV stations, which used the footage as lead-ins to the weather."

When The Residences at Ritz Carlton were launched in September, Eisenstadt's team wanted an experience that would mirror the Ritz identity as offering the best services, as well as the building's evolving contemporary feel.

"We built a mock-up of an elevator that people walked through into the living/dining room of the model suite, which is eclectic and sophisticated. Then we hired a harpist who didn't play traditional music — she played rock and jazz. So this VIP event was really elegant with a contemporary twist."

To get the attention of the young, urban market for Zip, a project by Monarch Construction in the hip King West area, The Communications Group went for signage and a cool car.

They hired two models and a driver, rented a Beetle convertible and put Zip signage all over the car. During the day, the car was driven around the financial district, where models handed out Zip T-shirts and CDs with the radio commercial for the condo and other information.

"The icon for this project is a spinning top so the models handed out spinning tops as well," Eisenstadt says.

At night, the "Zipsters" drove around the clubs in the Entertainment District, she says.

Giveaways are another tried-and-true publicity tradition. But Eisenstadt's company went a step further with Plazacorp's Wellington on the Park.
Visitors to the condo sales office were entered into a draw to win a Smart Car. To attract attention and a photo opportunity, a tiny, muscular female trainer was hired to push the car into the sales office.

One well-attended event was held at a local pub two months before the opening last March of London on the Esplanade, a project by Cityzen Development Group. Eisenstadt says that when you think "London," you think "pub," which is why a pub table is one of the amenities.
"We sent out invites to people who live and work in the area to heighten the awareness and to help build the prospective purchaser list," she says of the pub night.

"We had contests, everyone got a complimentary draft and the developer was there to answer questions. It was very successful with 300 people.
"These things do generate interest. There have been sales tracked back to these events and that's why we keep having them."
Rhoda and David Eisenstadt have been handling real estate clients for almost 30 years.

"We're really fortunate that the developers in the GTA are really open to new ideas," she says. "Our clients are really understanding of the marketplace and the need to differentiate themselves."

But unusual ideas go only so far. For two years, Eisenstadt has been trying to convince a developer to take a different approach in promoting the master ensuite.

"I say that before I retire from this business, I want to hire a mermaid or merman so that when people walk into the master ensuite, the mermaid or man is in the tub. It would be an incredible sight!"

RARITAN enhances performance of its award-winning dominion series to simplify remote server management
New Universal KVM Client Supports Windows, Linux, Sun/Solaris and Mac Environments; Enhanced Virtual KVM Desktop Delivers ‘Being-There’ Performance

MONTRÉAL – September 27, 2005

Raritan – a leading provider of solutions for managing IT infrastructure – today introduced the Universal KVM Client™ and Virtual KVM Desktop™ for its Dominion® KX remote management switches that deliver a remote management experience that is virtually indistinguishable from an “at-the-rack” session.

Based on a number of Raritan technology innovations -- including full-screen video, Transparent Keyboard Handling and fast video switching -- the Virtual KVM Desktop provides an easy-to-use interface that delivers high performance no matter if the server is local or remote. With the Dominion KX’s Transparent Keyboard Handling, for example, almost all user keystrokes are sent to the target server and not processed by the desktop client -- obviating the need for most keyboard macros and enabling the user to interact seamlessly with the target server.
Also, routine and repetitive system administrative tasks – such as uploading software patches, troubleshooting applications, adding authorized users and checking disk usage – can be performed the same way, no matter where the server is located. The Virtual KVM Desktop enables administrators to use the same administrative routines and keystrokes used to manage servers at the rack for managing servers that are remote; this eliminates the need to learn new procedures or add time-consuming steps.

Additional management flexibility is delivered by the Dominion’s new Universal KVM Client, which supports Windows®, Linux®, Sun®/SolarisTM and Mac® environments, as well as most major browsers, including Firefox, Internet Explorer, MozillaTM and Netscape®. With the Dominion KX, IT administrators are able to use their preferred combination of operating system and browser to troubleshoot, reconfigure, reboot and power cycle target servers.

For remote collaboration, the Dominion KX features a PC Share Mode that allows up to eight remote users to view the same server simultaneously, while one user has non-blocked access through the Dominion KX’s local console port.
“The enhancements that we are introducing today for the Dominion KX are designed to give systems administrators, who spend hours at a time managing servers, easy-to-use and intuitive management tools,” said Jerry Diakow, Raritan’s Canadian Country Manager. “The Dominion KX delivers a user experience that makes it almost impossible to differentiate whether you are in front of a server or sitting hundreds of miles away from the server rack.”

“We are driven to provide companies with the best tools to manage their IT infrastructure, so that they can maximize operations uptime and drive down systems management costs,” added Diakow. “The Dominion KX’s new Universal KVM Client and Virtual KVM Desktop provide IT administrators with more options and features to securely and cost-effectively access and manage their IT infrastructure equipment without having to leave their desks.”

The new Dominion KX with Release 1.3 is available worldwide through Raritan’s extensive distribution channel. Existing Dominion KX customers can upgrade free of charge to Release 1.3 by downloading the new firmware from Raritan’s Web site – http://www.raritan.com/support/sup_upgrades.aspx
Award-Winning Dominion Series

Dominion products continue to score awards and industry recognition. Recent awards include the highest score in a comparative KVM-over-IP review in InfoWorld, Best KVM-over-IP switch from Network Computing (Germany), and “Test Center Recommended” rating for both the Dominion KX and Dominion SX from CRN. Other publications that have bestowed awards upon the KX include ZDNet’s Technology & Business magazine in Australia, Information Week in China, UK’s PC Pro magazine and the U.S. based Service Provider Weekly, which gave the KX its Editor’s Choice award.
For enterprise-wide access and control, hundreds of Dominion KX switches, Paragon® analog KVM switches and Dominion SX serial console servers can be aggregated onto a single command-and-control network with Raritan’s CommandCenter® Secure Gateway appliance. CommandCenter Secure Gateway is the only solution that integrates both digital and analog KVM switches and serial-over-IP console servers into a single network with a single sign-on to a single IP address. CommandCenter Secure Gateway provides users and administrators the ability to define criteria to be used in sorting, viewing, accessing and managing devices, so remote maintenance and repair can be performed even quicker and more efficiently.

About Raritan (Raritan.com)
Raritan Computer, Inc.’s Canadian headquarters are located at 4 Robert Speck Pkwy, Suite 1500, Mississauga, ON, L4Z 1S1. Raritan Computer Inc., based in Somerset, N.J., USA, is a leading provider of products for managing IT equipment and the mission-critical applications and services that run on it. Raritan’s highly reliable and responsive IT management solutions – based on KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switches, serial console servers, management software and remote connectivity products – enable companies to proactively monitor and manage system health and vulnerability, as well as troubleshoot, access and repair faults from anywhere, at anytime. This simplifies and accelerates data center work processes – improving service uptime and staff productivity. Raritan’s solutions are used to manage more than 50,000 data centers and other IT sites around the world. Raritan’s Peppercon OEM division develops, manufactures and markets advanced, hardware-based, remote-management components based on digital KVM-over-IP and IPMI technology. Founded in 1985, Raritan is celebrating 20 years of technical innovation. Raritan has 35 offices worldwide, and its products are distributed in 76 countries. For more information, please visit Raritan.com.

CTV Covers Ritz Carlton Hotel and Condo Residences News Conference in Toronto

TORONTO – September 26, 2005

TORONTO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND TORONTO FILM STUDIOS SIGN LEASE FOR $100 MILLION FILM PRODUCTION FACILITY

2006 construction start for Canada’s largest film production complex, including the largest sound stage in North America
FILMPORT will be the new business community in Toronto’s Port Lands

TORONTO – September 15, 2005

The City of Toronto Economic Development Corporation (TEDCO) together with Toronto Film Studios Inc. (TFS) and its parent The Rose Corporation, today signed a land lease and other agreements to develop Canada’s largest film and media production complex in the city’s Port Lands.
The land lease was signed at a news conference by Jeffrey Steiner, president and CEO of TEDCO and Ken Ferguson, president of TFS. The lease agreement must still be ratified by Toronto City Council.

The comprehensive lease sets out the criteria for the construction and long-term operation of the important first phase of the film/media complex, which had been the object of an open, world-wide proposal call by TEDCO. The agreement obligates TFS to start building the first phase of the $100 million production complex as soon as possible, and no later than August 31, 2006.

“This is good news both for Toronto’s film industry and for our Port Lands,” said Mayor David Miller. “This studio will provide the kind of creative, knowledge-based jobs we need to spur the rejuvenation of our waterfront.”

The 99-year lease agreement is for an initial 30 acre site (12 hectares) between Don Roadway and Bouchette Streets, south of Commissioners Street and north of the shipping channel. The transaction also includes option rights on 15 acres (six hectares) of land north of Commissioners Street.

“We believe Toronto’s film industry will grow tremendously because of Toronto Film Studios’ investment in this landmark project,” said Jeffrey Steiner, TEDCO president and CEO. “This studio complex will provide Toronto with key infrastructure for many years into the future, and will help Toronto expand its role as a major, global-production centre. TEDCO is pleased to make the land available to do just that,” Steiner said.

Toronto Film Studios president Ken Ferguson announced that the new film and media business district will be named FILMPORT. “We believe FILMPORT captures the essence of the Port Lands legacy and location. The name also clearly defines the area’s new role as the film and media capital of Canada,” he said.

While under development, FILMPORT will create 2,000 person-years of employment in the construction, manufacturing and service sectors. When completed, the complex is expected to annually induce direct and indirect economic impacts of over $600 million in Ontario, and support up to 2,000 person-years of employment. The studio complex will also generate $4.3 million of additional property taxes for the city.

This initial phase will comprise 232,500 sq. ft. of production facilities including six state-of-the-art sound stages totalling 123,000 sq. ft. and over 100,000 sq. ft. of production offices and support facilities.

Phase 1 also includes the ‘mega-stage’ that will be North America’s largest, purpose-built sound stage. At 45,000 sq. ft., this state-of-the-art stage will have 65 ft. of clear height and a floor space 180 ft. wide by 250 ft. long (over an acre in area) – entirely without columns. It will be large enough to house a full-sized replica of the Parthenon.

“This stage will attract blockbuster feature films costing $100 million or more, like X-Men 2 and 3 and Superman 3. With its distinctive, vaulting roofline, it will be a signature landmark in the Port Lands. FILMPORT will instantly gain worldwide recognition that will make Toronto competitive with the biggest film centres anywhere,” Ferguson added.

TFS is striving to have construction completed next winter. Thereafter, the complex will expand to 550,000 sq. ft. of production space including more than a dozen sound stages. Development outside the studio gates, will include up to one million sq. ft. of offices, restaurants, conference facilities and possibly a hotel, as well as additional industrial and commercial space for related industries. The combined development cost of the studio complex and surrounding commercial space is $275 million.

Financing is being put in place now that a lease agreement is signed. Toronto Film Studios’ parent company, The Rose Corporation, and its equity partners will provide $25 million in equity. HSBC Bank Canada (Canada’s largest international bank) has offered construction financing. Permanent financing is being arranged by The Rose Corporation.
Toronto Film Studios Inc. is already Canada's largest film studio operator, currently managing 360,000 sq. ft. of facilities in the Port Lands area. TFS has hosted many of the city’s largest film productions including David Cronenberg’s A History of Violence and Ron Howard’s Cinderella Man.

The Rose Corporation is a privately-held, Toronto-based merchant bank with a 25 year record of success. It takes pride in providing debt and equity financing for imaginative projects like FILMPORT.

TEDCO is designated as the city-wide redevelopment arm for Toronto. It is an Ontario business corporation with the City of Toronto as its sole shareholder. It was incorporated in 1986 to pursue industrial development and to attract and retain jobs in the city. It is a self-financing, arms-length corporation supported by an 11 person board of directors appointed by City Council.

TEDCO owns over 450 acres (162 hectares) of land in the Port Lands and elsewhere in the city and leases properties to approximately 70 businesses.

PAISLEY-MANOR INSURANCE BROKERS celebrates its 50th anniversary!

TORONTO, ON – September 8, 2005

Paisley-Manor Insurance Brokers, Inc. (PMI), is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Based in Toronto, PMI offers a range of services including business (property/building), institutional, personal, home and auto insurance, life and group benefits programs, hard-to-place risks, specialized lines and fleets.

CEO Ira Kuchinsky said, “Our success as one of Canada's fastest growing, independently-owned insurance brokerages comes from a half-century of accumulated knowledge designing and developing comprehensive insurance programs and services for entrepreneurial businesses.”
Founded by Irving Allan Paisley in 1955 from a shared office in North York, Ontario, the company has grown to an international service provider employing over 50 people.

PMI’s principals are involved in the daily management of all insurance affairs, and are supported by a staff of insurance professionals with a wide range of insurance industry experience.

President Michael Paisley said, “We expect to continue doing what has made us successful and look forward to the next 50 years of serving our growing clientele.”

PMI has a Realty Insurance Exposures division, to work with the ownership, construction and development segments of that industry. The company also has national and international expertise and cross-border facilities to service private and public sector clients.

McAFEE releases Internet security suite 2006 for consumers
New Comprehensive Package Provides Protection and Prevention Against Viruses, Spyware, Phishing Scams, Identity Thieves and Hackers

MARKHAM, ON - September 8, 2005

McAfee, Inc. (NYSE: MFE) today announced that the McAfee Internet Security Suite 2006 is now available for download at www.mcafee.com for $69.99. The McAfee Internet Security Suite 2006 is an easy to use, comprehensive security solution that safeguards against identity theft and "phishing" scams, and helps to protect consumers' Internet experiences. The virus protection that
forms the core of the McAfee Internet Security Suite, McAfee VirusScan, has been awarded PC Magazine's "Editors' Choice" award.
The McAfee Internet Security Suite 2006 helps prevent viruses, spyware, hackers, and "phishing" scams that may result in identity theft, damage -- including permanent loss -- of irreplaceable documents and files, such as digital photos and personal financial data. The software program also prohibits unauthorized access to and from the Internet, blocks unwanted or persistent pop-up ads or annoying potentially unwanted programs which may lead to poor PC performance, manages cookies, and filters unwanted and offensive
Internet and e-mail content.

The McAfee Internet Security Suite 2006 includes the following market-leading security features:
• Automatic virus and spyware detection: This feature identifies, blocks, and removes identified viruses and potentially unwanted programs, such as spyware, Trojans, dialers or other programs that jeopardize privacy, identity, and reduce PC performance. Unlike competitive products that allow spyware to run and then notify the user, McAfee blocks a known instance of spyware from running so no damage can be done.

• "Phishing" protection: McAfee's AntiPhishing browser plug-in identifies and blocks known and potential "phishing" Websites and scams. While some products focus on blocking "phishing" e-mails only, the McAfee Internet Security Suite notifies consumers when they are the most vulnerable -- at the point they are about to visit a known or suspected phishing Web site. The suite stops pop-ups from adware or other software that could redirect a user to a fraudulent site and alerts users when transmitting personal identification information. The suite also helps prevent "phishing" attacks before they reach a user's e-mail inbox by using a set of spam filters developed to specifically target "phishing" e-mail content.

• Automated, daily signature updates: This new feature updates McAfee
software on a daily basis to keep PCs protected from recently discovered virus and spyware threats. Daily updates automatically download and install in the background, requiring no user interaction, and therefore providing a better user experience.

"The McAfee Internet Security Suite offers everything today's home and small business user needs for securing and protecting the crucial information that resides on their computers by providing multiple layers of prevention, protection, and detection for both inbound and outbound Internet threats," said Marc Solomon, senior product manager of McAfee's Consumer Strategy and Marketing Group. "It's easy to use, and the automated, daily software updates, which run seamlessly in the background, provide superior protection for every aspect of an individual's connected lifestyle."

McAfee Internet Security Suite 2006 will be available in a boxed edition from all major retailers in October at a retail price of $69.99. For additional savings, three-user license packs will have a suggested price of $129.99. With McAfee, consumers can choose from a number of subscription periods and regardless of the one they have selected, all subscribers receive all product updates and feature upgrades during the active subscription or trial period. Unlimited free support is available 24/7 from www.McAfeehelp.com through popular Internet chat programs.

ABOUT MCAFEE, INC.
McAfee Inc., headquartered in Santa Clara, California and the global leader in Intrusion Prevention and Security Risk Management, delivers proactive and proven solutions and services that secure systems and networks around the world. With its unmatched security expertise and commitment to innovation, McAfee empowers home users, businesses, the public sector, and service providers with the ability to block attacks, prevent disruptions, and continuously track and improve their security. www.mcafee.com

In Canada, McAfee, Inc. is headquartered at 675 Cochrane Drive, 6th Floor East Tower, Markham, Ontario L3R 0B8. Tel. 905-530-2363, with regional representation in Montréal, PQ; Ottawa, ON; Halifax, NS; Calgary, AB; Edmonton, AB and Vancouver, BC. McAfee’s Consumer Product division Research and Development facility is in Waterloo, ON.

NOTE: McAfee and SecurityAlliance are registered trademarks or trademarks of McAfee, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the US and/or other countries. The color red in connection with security is distinctive of McAfee brand products. All other registered and unregistered trademarks in this document are the sole property of their respective owners. (c) 2005 McAfee, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

HERE’S THE BEEF:
NEW YORK FRIES LAUNCHES SOUTH ST. BURGER Co. IN TORONTO

TORONTO – August 31/05

New York Fries is expanding again with today’s opening of the first South St. Burger Co. in Toronto.

Specializing in fresh, 100% pure beef burgers; this quick service restaurant will serve premium food in a contemporary, New York style loft-like environment.

South St. Burger Co.’s menu features fresh, never frozen, 1/3 lb, 100% pure beef burgers, grilled chicken breasts and veggie burgers. Sides include hand-cut New York Fries french fries and poutine, hand-made onion rings and real, hand-scooped ice cream milkshakes. The onion rings, like the fries, are also hand-cut and cooked in non-hydrogenated, Trans Fat Free Sunflower oil.

A variety of condiments will allow customers to personalize their orders at no extra charge. A selection of cheeses will also be on the menu.
“South St. Burger Co. operates with the same principles that have made New York Fries a success,” said Jay Gould, President of New York Fries and South St. Burger Co. “Like our fries, South St.’s burgers, onion rings and milkshakes will all be made from fresh, quality ingredients and prepared right in front of you. Every menu item is designed to be a ‘best in category’ product.”

Located at the south-west quadrant of Steeles and Dufferin (2215 Steeles Avenue West), the 2,000 sq. ft. restaurant seats 40 people. The restaurant will open with 25 employees, and will operate as a corporate store. “Although the GTA will be our initial focus, it is our goal to grow South St. Burger Co. into a franchised chain across the country,” said Gould. “Within the first five years, I'd like to think we'd reach 25 units, possibly more.”
South St. Burger Co. is open 11:00 am - 10:00 pm, seven days a week, with free on-site parking.

A division of New York Fries, South St. Burger Co. was designed by JUMP Branding and design. Ad agency is Zig; Public Relations is handled by The Communications Group Inc., all of Toronto.

Visit www.southstburgerco.com.

PIZZA NOVA’S ‘kids pizza making workshop’, free at the EX!

Daily Workshops Happen at Kids’ World… Any Way You Slice It

TORONTO, ON - August 15, 2005

At the CNE, aspiring pizza makers 10 years and under, will again have the opportunity to learn how to make pizza from Pizza Nova pizzaiolos (pizza makers).

From August 19, to September 5, 2005, Pizza Nova offers Pizza Making Workshops six times daily at Kids’ World, located just east of the Dufferin Gates.
Now in its fifth year, these free Workshops are interactive and educational, teaching children about nutrition while demonstrating how to make a perfect pizza.

After the introductory lesson and question period, kids receive their own individual dough ball and learn how to stretch and toss the dough to make the perfect pizza. Since the pizza-making workshop began in 2001, over 5,000 kids have stretched over 10,000 pounds of dough.
At the end of each 25-minute workshop, newly-certified pizza makers will receive a freshly-made, hot pizza slice and a Pizza Nova loot bag.
Pizza Making Workshops run daily at: 11:45 am, 1:15 pm, 2:45 pm, 4:15 pm, 5:45 pm and 7:15 pm.

This year, Pizza Nova also sponsors Kids’ Loonie Mondays. On August 22 and 29, visitors age 13 and under (accompanied by an adult) will be admitted to the CNE for $1.

About Pizza Nova
Founded in 1963, Toronto-based Pizza Nova is a family-operated business with 100 locations in Southern Ontario. Specializing in fresh toppings, Pizza Nova serves over 3 million pizzas annually, and offers a wide range of menu items including salads, lasagna, panzerotti, sandwiches, chicken wings, spicy green olives, tiramisu. Pizza Nova locations offer delivery, pickup and some sit-down service. Visit www.pizzanova.com.

CANADA HAS A NEW CHIP ON THE BLOCK!
NEW YORK FRIES LAUNCHES CRISP CUT POTATO CHIPS

TORONTO, July 26/05

Potato Chip lovers have a new reason to celebrate in Canada!

Jay Gould, Owner and President
NEW YORK FRIES, Toronto, Canada

New York Fries, Canada’s leading French Fry chain, headquartered in Toronto, is introducing Crisp Cut Potato Chips. In true New York Fries form, these kettle-cooked chips are made from real, fresh premium potatoes and cooked in Non-Hydrogenated, Trans Fat Free and Cholesterol Free Sunflower oil.

New York Fries Potato chips will retail for $3.25 for a 150 gram bag, and are available at participating New York Fries stores across Canada.
Seasoned with New York Fries’ own signature California Sweet BBQ spice, the chips are made from potatoes grown in nutrient rich soil in British Columbia’s fertile Fraser Valley.

For over 20 years, New York Fries has mastered the recipe for Canada’s favourite fry.

“The launch of our Potato Chips is a natural extension of our business,” says President Jay Gould. “In keeping with New York Fries’ premium quality, it was important for us to ensure that our chips, like our fries, were prepared using the best potatoes, and cooked in sunflower oil. It is our plan to expand our flavour offerings and our distribution through grocery and confectionary stores in the months ahead. If you like our fries, you’ll love our chips!”

To sample a 150 gram bag of New York Fries Potato Chips, contact Alyssa Berenstein, alyssab@newyorkfries.com or (416) 963-5005.

ABOUT NEW YORK FRIES
Founded in 1984 by foodservice industry innovator Jay Gould, New York Fries is a 183 retail store chain specializing in premium quality, fresh-cut fries, across Canada, Korea, Australia and the United Arab Emirates. New York Fries stores are in major shopping centres, movie theatres and theme parks. In March 2004, New York Fries became the first Canadian quick service company to switch their oil to a non-hydrogenated, non-GMO, Trans fat free sunflower oil and have since removed the trans fats from their cheese sauce and gravy.

New York Fries “Crisp Cut” Potato Chips
Fast Facts

• What are New York Fries Crisp Cut Potato Chips?	In true New York Fries form, these crisp-cut, Kettle-cooked chips are made from real, fresh premium potatoes and cooked in Non-Hydrogenated, Trans Fat Free and Cholesterol Free Sunflower oil.
• Where are the potatoes from?	The potatoes grow in nutrient rich soil from glacial Ice Age in the fertile Fraser Valley, British Columbia
• How are the chips seasoned?	With New York Fries’ own signature California Sweet BBQ spice
• Where are the chips made?	The chips are made by an independent potato chip manufacturer located in rural B.C.
• Where are the chips sold?	The chips will be launched exclusively at New York Fries locations from B.C. through Québec.
• What is the size of the bag?	The chips are packaged in 150 gram bags
• Price:	$3.25
• How many potatoes are used to make one bag of chips?	It takes 600 grams of raw potatoes, the equivalent of approximately five large, juicy potatoes.
• Number of potatoes sliced per hour	20,000 lbs
• Number of bags packaged daily:	10,000
• Approximate Number of chips per bag	55 chips
• Chip Bag Designers	Zig (Toronto, Canada)

IT’S ALL ABOUT OLIVES AT PIZZA NOVA!
Olives a first for a pizza chain in Canada

TORONTO – July 21/05

Pizza Nova has added a healthy new item to its menu – Spicy Jumbo Green Olives! For only $2.99, patrons can order a 225g container (approximately 24 olives), the perfect snack to complement a pizza.

“We decided to add spicy green olives because it is a natural complement to our menu offerings,” said Pizza Nova’s Vice President of Marketing Domenic Primucci. “Pizza Nova is the first pizza chain in Canada to do this”.
Overloaded on Olives? Here are some facts:
• Over 1 billion olive trees grow on 6 of 7 continents in 20 countries around the world.
• Spain is the world's largest exporter of table olives. The majority of its exports are the Spanish-style pimento-stuffed green olives.
• Archeological evidence suggests that olives were being grown in Crete as long ago as 2,500 B.C. From Crete and Syria olives spread to Greece, Rome and other parts of the Mediterranean area.
• The olive tree is one of the longest living trees on earth – the average lifespan is 500 years.
• The annual olive harvest is nearly 10 million tons. Over 1 million tons are processed as table olives, and the balance is pressed for olive oil.
• There are 500 million olive trees in Europe, and 50 million in California. California produces less than 5% of the world crop.
• A ton of olives produces 50 gallons of olive oil.
• The first vegetation brought back by a dove to Noah after the flood was an olive tree branch.- 2 -
• Green olives are picked while unripe, which makes them denser and more bitter than brown or black olives, which stay on the tree until fully ripened.

• At only 2.5 grams of fat per serving (4 Large olives), olives are a great low fat alternative to traditional snacks.
• Olives are a cholesterol-free food.
• Greeks consume more olive oil per person than any other nation
• American Airlines saved $40,000 in 1987 by eliminating one olive from each salad served in first-class.
• Olive oil is an antidote for ammonia poisoning.
• Two well know women named Olive – Popeye’s Girlfriend, and The Osmond Family’s Mother.

About Pizza Nova
Founded in 1963, Toronto-based Pizza Nova is a family-operated business with 100 locations in Southern Ontario. Specializing in fresh toppings, Pizza Nova serves over 3 million pizzas annually, and offers a wide range of menu items including salads, lasagna, panzerotti, sandwiches, chicken wings and tiramisu. Pizza Nova locations offer delivery, pickup and some sit-down service. Visit www.pizzanova.com.

ISRAEL IN THE WORLD: Changing Lives Through Innovation
A New Book By Helen Davis and Douglas Davis

TORONTO, April 14, 2005

Israel In The World, a new book by acclaimed journalists and writers Helen Davis and Douglas Davis looks at the people behind the success. Without any natural resources, Israel’s assets are its people, their creativity, their intellectual energy and their collective determination to use the nation’s ‘brain-based’ industries to succeed in spite of persistent existential challenges. This book allows the world to witness their previously felt but unseen success.

The beautifully presented book looks at the Israel that exists behind tragedies and dramas that form daily headlines. It takes technological, economic and cultural leaders, consolidating its global reputation for innovation and excellence. It details a wide range of Israel’s developments in science, technology, medicine, education, agriculture, and the arts, which are not only changing peoples’ lives around the world, but are making the world a safer place to live.

Here are a few of Israel’s successes:
• A miniature disposable video camera that is setting new standards in non-invasive forms of diagnosis. The M2A Capsule Endoscope can transmit some 50,000 real time images to a belt worn by the patient. Eight hours later the doctor is able to upload a high-quality 20-minute version of the video to make a diagnosis. This took the Silver Award at the Wall Street Journal 2004 Technology Innovation Awards.

• The Centrino processor chip, the Microsoft NT programme, the ICQ chat facility, the Pentium processor chip, CAT scanners and MRI machines

• A voice-sensitive technology that can help to reveal if someone is telling the truth over the telephone which is already saving companies around the world hundreds of millions of pounds

• A Nobel Prize in Science in 2004 for groundbreaking research into cancer and other degenerative brain diseases

• Teams of experts in emergency rescue and disaster medicine on-site in Zaire in 1994, Kosovo in 1999, Ethiopia in 2000 and played a major role in the immediate
aftermath of devastating floods in Central America in 1998, earthquakes in Turkey, El Salvador and India, and the Tsunami in 2004

• The Tel Aviv based irrigation company that is helping to grow bananas along the Ivory Coast, melons in Mexico, vegetables in India, grapes in Germany and roses in South Africa.

Despite the relative isolation of the country and its small size (one-third of the size of Nova Scotia), Israel has never ceased in its quest for excellence and today Israeli innovation and invention is to be found in every city in the world. Israel In The World is a true testament to Israel’s success story.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Helen Davis was born in New Zealand. She has since lived and worked throughout the world for major news organizations. This included 10 years in Israel, where she edited Israel Scene, a monthly features magazine. She has contributed to the Sunday Times, Economist, Sunday Telegraph, and other leading journals throughout Europe.

Douglas Davis was born in South Africa, where he started his career in journalism. Since being exiled under the former apartheid regime, he has lived and worked in daily journalism in Britain and the world. He is the co-author of Shcharansky: The Journey Home and A New Anti-Semitism?

THE RITZ-CARLTON, TORONTO WILL BE A NEW 53-STOREY LANDMARK ON DOWNTOWN SKYLINE WITH 135 LUXURY RESIDENCES $300 Million Project Will Generate Jobs

TORONTO – April 12, 2005

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, MD. and Graywood Developments Ltd. of Toronto today announced they will build a 53-storey luxury hotel and condominium residence in downtown Toronto. The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto and The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto will be a $300 million development located on the south side of Wellington Street, between Simcoe and John Streets.
The 700,000 sq. ft. facility features a five-star hotel with 267 rooms and 135 condominium residences in a stately, elegant point tower destined to become a city landmark.

“This is the first Ritz-Carlton combined hotel and condominium residence in Canada and will be the only Toronto hotel to offer The Ritz-Carlton level of luxury and service,” said Michael Beckley, vice-president of development for Marriott International Inc., the parent company of The Ritz-Carlton.
The project will generate approximately 1,500 construction jobs and more than 500 permanent, full-time jobs. Zoning for the development is in place. Construction is scheduled to start in 2006 and be completed in 2009. A presentation centre for the condominium residences will open this September.
Toronto Mayor David Miller said, “The arrival of Toronto’s first five-star hotel is another sign of our city’s renaissance. Not only will this hotel create hundreds of jobs, it will also help attract visitors from around the world to Toronto.”

“There is simply no building of this caliber in the city. The building will change the face of Toronto by its internationally inspired design,” said Garnet Watchorn, President of Graywood Developments Ltd.

The project’s architecture is a collaboration between New York-based, Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) Associates Architects and Planners and Toronto-based, Page + Steele Architects and Planners. The building’s interior spaces will be designed by HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates Design Consultants’ Atlanta office and Babey Moulton Jue and Booth of San Francisco.

Combining classic and contemporary architectural elements throughout, the building has three main components. The tower will rise out of a five-level podium. Storeys six to 20 will contain luxuriously appointed rooms and facilities for hotel guests. Condominium residences will be located on storeys 22 to 52, with a private lobby and amenity centre for residents on the 21st and 22nd storeys.
At storey 26, the tower’s south wall begins to slope outward, forming an arresting architectural feature designed to visually compliment the sweeping curves of Roy Thomson Hall across the street.

The five-storey podium at the tower’s base features a largely glass exterior designed to create a sense of interaction between the street and the lobby. The podium will also hold two large ballrooms, fine-dining restaurants, conference and meeting facilities to attract high-end conference and meeting business. The grand ballroom will host leading social events and functions.
In addition, the top level of the podium will house a world class 23,000 sq. ft. spa, which will be Toronto’s largest and most luxurious.
Most condominium residences will be one, two and three bedroom suites ranging from 2,000 to over 3,000 sq. ft. There are also a few smaller one bedroom pied-a-terres in the 1,300 to 1,700 sq. ft. range.

Suites will be priced from the $700,000s to over $8 million, the exception being the top penthouse. Located on the 52nd floor, it will be a palatial 10,920 sq. ft., for approximately $11 million.

“The opportunity for condominium owners to live above and share facilities and services with a five-star Ritz-Carlton hotel is unprecedented in Toronto,” said Pat Baker, CEO, Baker Real Estate Corp.

The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto and The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto marks another step in the ongoing evolution of The Ritz-Carlton brand. Since 200l, The Ritz-Carlton has successfully opened 23 hotel and resort properties. The expansion program is part of the Company’s philosophy of gradually evolving to accommodate the changing needs of a clientele seeking more contemporary design standards and a less formal, more relaxed atmosphere of elegance.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., (USA) currently operates 58 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. It is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, call toll free, 1-800-241-3333, contact a travel professional, or consult the web site at www.ritzcarlton.com.

Graywood Developments Ltd. was recently selected by the Royal Ontario Museum for the planned redevelopment of the McLaughlin Planetarium site. Graywood has completed major residential, commercial, office and hotel projects in both Canada and the United States. In the Greater Toronto Area, the Company’s condominium developments include Number One York Quay, Landmark of Thornhill and 370 King West.

RHYTHMS OF COLLABORATION NAMES THE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP INC.
TO BANG THE DRUM

TORONTO, March 22, 2005

Los Angeles-based RHYTHMS OF COLLABORATION "Corporate Drum Circles" has named The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) of Toronto as its North American PR Consultants.

Founded in 1995 by globally-renowned composer, hand drummer/percussionist Adam Rudolph, Rhythms of Collaboration is an experiential on-site learning program that uses drums and drumming as a catalyst and metaphor for teambuilding.

“We have worked with many client organizations around the world. Feedback tells us that our program has helped create a greater sense of community within their organizations, improves listening and communication skills and encourages creativity and innovation. In addition, people have lots of fun with our approach. Everyone loves to play the drums once they get the chance,” said Rudolph.

Groups vary from 10 to 500 with presentations customized to fit an organization's requirements. The program outline begins with a short and entertaining drumming performance, followed by Rudolph reviewing the process in the context of any issues that the client needs to address. Then the drums come out, and everyone gets to experience the power and joy of playing music together under the guidance of Adam Rudolph and his assistants.

"We link with learning officers in HR, as well as sales and marketing departments who run team building programs where our approach dovetails perfectly. After 10 years of successful drum circle presentations, we have decided to grow our business exponentially," Rudolph added. “By retaining TCG, we hope to take significant steps towards connecting with new North American-based clients.”

Some of Rhythms of Collaboration’s clients include Texas Instruments, Cognos, Standford University School of Business, Qualcomm, Federated Department Stores.
George Consolver, Director of Texas Instruments Strategy Process said, “Rhythms of Collaboration created a unique leadership learning opportunity for experiencing the benefits of timing, listening, and trust. It's a great team activity -- fun, fast-paced, and very entertaining. Adam and his fellow percussionists are excellent teachers and performers.”

For more information or to book RHYTHMS OF COLLABORATION contact:
Adam Rudolph, arudolph@earthlink.net www.rhythmsofcollaboration.com
Tel: 310-397-1316

NIAGARA REGION NATIVE/RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE WINE MANAGER NAMED BEST ONTARIO SOMMELIER

TORONTO – November 18, 2004

An experienced, seven-year Ruth’s Chris Steak House sommelier and Niagara Region native, April Kilpatrick, has won the Best Ontario Sommelier award from the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers (CAPS).

A certified member of the International Sommelier Guild, April Kilpatrick joined Ruth’s Chris -Toronto in 1998 as sommelier/wine manager. In addition to being awarded this prestigious title, she will have the opportunity to compete with other professional sommeliers in the International Competition in 2005.

Competitors included over 50 certified Ontario Sommeliers and members of the Toronto CAPS Chapter. This organization is a chapter of the Paris-based Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), and is devoted to developing the sommelier profession in Ontario.
To determine Final Competition qualifiers, semi-finals were held in August. Competing Sommeliers were evaluated based on their performance on a written questionnaire; the blind tasting of two wines for sight, smell, taste, aftertaste, grape varietal, vintage, area of provenance plus a food and wine pairing. Four candidates with the highest score were selected to compete as finalists for the Best Ontario Sommelier Competition.
Five judges decided on the winner after the four sommeliers faced a demanding series of tests including a formal wine and food pairing presentation and a service sequence. They were also judged on their ability to blind test five premiere wines.

The Best Ontario Sommelier Competition is open to all CAPS active in good standing. Entrants had to currently work in a restaurant where they earned at least 50 per cent of their revenue. Members also had to have a minimum two to three years experience working as a sommelier or graduate certified sommelier.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the only restaurant in the Greater Toronto Area to employ two certified female sommeliers - April Kilpatrick and Jennifer Huether. In Canada, Ruth’s Chris Steak House lists approximately 250 wines. The Toronto restaurant received the 2004 DiRoNA Award of Excellence from Distinguished Restaurants of North America and has received The Wine Spectator Award of Excellence each year since 1997.

ABOUT RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
Headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, Ruth’s Chris Steak House was founded by Ruth Fertel in 1965. The largest upscale steak house in the world, Ruth’s Chris specialises in aged, corn-fed USDA Prime beef, broiled at high temperatures to sear in the natural juices, and served sizzling on a heated plate to keep each steak hot and juicy to the last bite. Ruth’s Chris Steak House can be found throughout North America, the Caribbean and the Far East. Visit www.ruthschris.ca.

As part of their mission to make music and related information accessible 24/7, the CMC’s website www.musiccentre.ca features a searchable database of the library and allows scores, parts and audio files to be transmitted electronically.New Music in New Places is supported by The SOCAN Foundation and the Government of Canada through the Canada Music Fund. All events are sponsored by Canada NewsWire Ltd., Bowdens Media Monitoring Limited and The Communications Group Inc.

CANADIAN MUSIC CENTRE LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE “NEW MUSIC IN NEW PLACES” CONCERT FESTIVAL

TORONTO, September 14, 2004
The Canadian Music Centre (CMC) today announced a series of national performance events, called New Music in New Places, designed to bring Canadian contemporary music out of the concert halls and into the lives of Canadians.

Beginning September 24 until March 2005, Canadians can experience 35 or more concert performances throughout Canada. Local composers and musicians will perform music amidst the community, wherever this may be, including locations in a New Brunswick Penitentiary, a northern Ontario mining town, in an office tower in downtown Montreal and in a hot air balloon over Winnipeg. “Most Canadians don’t realize that there are more than 600 professional Canadian composers creating original music that is performed and recorded worldwide,” said Elisabeth Bihl, the Centre’s Executive Director. “With five Music Centres across Canada, we house the country’s largest collection of Canadian contemporary music works, with over 16,000 original Canadian scores.”

Long a unique resource for conductors, choreographers, performers, broadcasters and students, the CMC’s mission is to promote the music of its associate composers. But contemporary music has traditionally been the domain of a relatively select audience, and the CMC’s New Music in New Places festival aims to change that. Performances highlight contemporary composers from regions across the country bringing to beaches, malls, brewpubs, wineries, museums and airports, the sounds and music that are an integral part of the Canadian character. Ms. Bihl described this national initiative from the CMC’s headquarters in the historic Chalmers House, a Toronto heritage building that warehouses CD’s, prints, binds and digitizes original scores, and maintains a library with an extensive collection of published and unpublished scores and archival and commercial recordings.

DAVID EISENSTADT APPOINTED CANADIAN COMMUNICATIONS COUNSEL, TO FRIENDS OFSIMON WIESENTHAL CENTER

TORONTO – July 8, 2004

The Board of Directors of Canada’s Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, has announced the appointment of David Eisenstadt as Communications Counsel, effective immediately.

A Partner at Toronto-based public relations firm, The Communications Group Inc., Eisenstadt will work with Friends' Canadian Director, Avi Benlolo and Director of National Affairs, Leo Adler. His firm, now in its 31st year, continues to provide pro bono service to the organization.

Eisenstadt is a graduate of Carleton University’s School of Journalism and the University of Alberta at Calgary.

Commenting on the appointment, Rabbi Abraham Cooper, Associate Dean, Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles said, “In nearly 30 years of activism, I have never met a public relations professional who so wonderfully combines brilliance, unstinting personal integrity and powerful results. Canadian Friends, the Wiesenthal Center and the Jewish community are lucky to have David on our side.”

Added Avi Benlolo, “David Eisenstadt has a wealth of communications experience, and is pivotal in disseminating and informing the media about issues of concern to the Center and the public.”

"David Eisenstadt’s contribution to Friends, over the last few years, has been stellar. His dedication and devotion to the community, his award-winning recognition by his peers and his unerring advice has made his appointment a 'natural'. We look forward to a long and beneficial association," said Leo Adler.

Eisenstadt is a Fellow of the Public Relations Society of America and the Canadian Public Relations Society. He is the 2004 recipient of the CPRS Philip A. Novikoff Memorial Award for “furthering the standing of the PR profession in Canada over time, through professional and public relations practice, service to CPRS and the community at large."

ABOUT THE SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTERFOR HOLOCAUST STUDIES
Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies is a Canadian human rights organization dedicated to fostering tolerance and understanding through community involvement, educational outreach and social action. With over 40,000 members of all faiths, it confronts important contemporary issues including racism, antisemitism, terrorism and genocide. Friends is affiliated with the world-wide, Los Angeles-based Simon Wiesenthal Center, an accredited Non-Government Organization with status at international agencies, including the United Nations, UNESCO, OSCE and the Council of Europe, with offices in New York, Miami, Paris, Jerusalem, Buenos Aries and Toronto. Simon Wiesenthal himself still works out of his Vienna office.

LEWIS PR’S FIRST GATEWAY ALLIANCE ESTABLISHED WITH CANADA’S THE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP INC.
Results-Driven Agencies Provide Seamless Service Model For North American Clients

Boston and Toronto – June 16, 2004

Global public relations agency, LEWIS, and leading Canadian IT PR agency, The Communications Group Inc. (TCG), have formed a reciprocal client servicing pact covering the North American market. Termed the Gateway Alliance, the two high-tech public relations firms have created a seamless service standard for clients. The main goal of the Gateway Alliance is to provide rapid and assured PR access into Canada for LEWIS clients and into the US for clients of The Communications Group. The agreement outlines expected service standards for mutual clients, transparent billing and eliminates the competitive elements common in internationally coordinated PR campaigns.

“The Gateway Alliance agrees to manage each other’s clients with PR needs in each respective market with the same professional manner they have come to expect from LEWIS offices in other parts of the world, or from TCG,” said David Eisenstadt, Founding Partner of The Communications Group.

“LEWIS already has an extensive reach across the US, Europe and Asia, but wanted to take its servicing to the next level in Canada,” said Steve Capoccia, general manager and head of East Coast operations for LEWIS in Boston.

“The Communications Group provides in-depth Canadian market knowledge and has an excellent reputation with the news media – which was key to our selecting them as a partner,” said Capoccia.

About LEWIS
LEWIS is the fastest growing agency in the US. It has wholly-owned offices in Boston, Eindhoven, London, Madrid, Milan, Munich, Paris, San Diego, San Francisco, Singapore, Stockholm, and Sydney offering local market knowledge and contacts for clients across the United States, Europe and AsiaPac. The agency is independently owned by the executive management team round the world and employs 130 staff. For further information visit www.lewispr.com

About THE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP INC.
The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) is a Toronto-based, independentlyowned public relations consulting firm successfully serving multi-national
and Canadian clients across Canada since 1973. Visit www.tcgpr.com

DAVID EISENSTADT NAMED CPRS NOVIKOFF AWARD RECIPIENT FOR 2004
QUEBEC CITY, PQ, June 15, 2004

At the recent Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) Annual Conference here, David Eisenstadt, APR, Fellow PRSA, CPRS of The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) received this year’s Philip A. Novikoff Memorial Award.

“The Novikoff Award is presented to an accredited member of the Society who has furthered the standing of the public relations profession in Canada over time, through professional and public relations practice, service to CPRS and the community at large,” said Karen Dalton, APR, Executive Director, CPRS.

Eisenstadt founded The Communications Group Inc. in 1973, with corporate communications experience from IBM Canada Ltd. and public relations consulting management responsibilities with Goodis, Goldberg & Soren Advertising.

Based in Toronto, TCG continues to be one of Canada's leading independently-owned public relations consulting firms serving Canadian and multinational clients.

Established in 1989 in memory of public relations professional Philip A. Novikoff, the Award has been given to 10 recipients to date. Other recipients include Louis J. Cahill, APR, Fellow CPRS (Toronto); Dean Miller, APR (Vancouver); David W. Annesley, APR (Calgary); Steven Parker, APR, Fellow CPRS (Halifax); Ruth F. Hammond, APR, Fellow CPRS (Toronto); Luc Beauregard, APR, Fellow CPRS (Montréal); Jim Osborne, APR (Calgary); Jean Freeman, APR, Honourary Fellow CPRS (Regina); Barbara Sheffield, APR, Fellow CPRS (Toronto).

YAK COMMUNCATIONS ROLLS THROUGH ATLANTIC CANADA

As public relations counsel to YAK Communications, Inc., of Toronto, Canada, a decision was made to launch its long distance dial-around phone service in Atlantic Canada during Q4, 2003. Because the service launch was real news, positioning the announcement before any paid advertising was an absolutely essential tactic.

The offering for consumers and business (land line) phone users in each of the four Atlantic provinces was that they'd be able to make long distance calls anywhere in North America, 7-24, for only five cents a minute, with no strings attached and without signing contracts, switching their phone carrier, paying a surcharge, etc. The charge per call would appear on their local carrier's bill on an itemized basis under the heading "Other Carriers".

This service was available in all other Canadian provinces prior to this launch.

As a Toronto-based company, it was important to position the launch very carefully, since YAK views itself as a"friendly competitor" to the Telco companies with which it partners to provide this service In this case, YAK's new offering would be provided to customers of Aliant Telecom in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland. At the same time, we were mindful that there is sometimes resentment of anything imposed on these provinces which comes from Toronto, acknowledged as the business capital of the country (and in fact, other parts of Canada as well), particularly when the Company was not opening an office or hiring anyone locally.

The reality was that when the PR campaign was launched, YAK beat (and still beats) any competitor on price; still, the issue was to get local elephone company users to consider switching to YAK by using an easy-to-remember phone prefix code....10-10-YAK (925) followed by 1, then the area code and number.

The YAK PR initiative happened over the course of one week; October 27 (Halifax, NS); 28 (Saint John, NB); 29 (Charlottetown, PEI); 30 (St. John's Nf), 2003.

We prepared "locally targetted " Media Kits and releases; identified specific print and broadcast journalists for YAK President/ & CEO Charles Zwebner. to meet. We managed a "local" whirlwind tour with Mr. Zwebner as spokesperson in each of the four cities and as a result, "next day" major front page Business Section coverage appeared in each of the Halifax Chronicle-Herald and Halifax Mail-Star; Halifax Daily News; Saint John Telegraph -Journal and New Brunswick Telegraph -Journal; Charlottetown Guardian and St. John's Telegram, plus extensive cross-province radio and TV coverage followed.

Over the next two weeks, a direct mail flyer was produced with the 10-10-YAK(925) number attached as a"sticky" pull-away reminder for consumers to affix to their phones.

Business escalated from a standing start.

This publicly traded Canadian company (Nasdaq: YAKC) recently announced its Second Quarter results as of December 31, 2003 with sales of $20,240,000, an increase of 118 per cent over sales of $9,297,00 for the comparable period ending December 31, 2002. Earnings per diluted share were $.12 (post 2:1 stock split effect 01/29/04) representing an increase of 100 per cent over the comparable 12 month period ending December 31, 2002. For the quarter ending December 31, 2003, YAK processed on its own network 235 million minutes of traffic with 20 million calls serving over 800,00 monthly customers.

TCG Helps The Daniels Corporation Light-Up The Night Sky

Working with The Daniels Corporation, one of Canada’s most prominent residential builders/developers, The Communications Group Inc. planned a spectacular Lighting Ceremony, New York-style Reception and Media Relations Program to officially open NY Towers, Toronto’s luxury condominium community at Bayview Avenue and Highway 401.

The four condo towers are the first stage of a planned community that will grow across 10 acres, ultimately creating a neighbourhood for over 4,000 people.

TCG managed all aspects of the Pre-Launch and Launch Event activities on November 25/02, including theme creation and menu selection, speech writing, preparation of the Media Kit contents and extensive journalist outreach.

Street vendors offering pretzels, hot dogs, warm chestnuts and a jazz combo were some of the highlights of this Gotham City-inspired, early evening bash, which included the choreographed illumination of the condo Towers’ art-deco rooflines and a spectacular fireworks extravaganza triggered by Mayor Mel Lastman and other dignitaries.

The Opening of NY Towers was covered by a compliment of broadcast and print News Media......Global Television, CITY TV and CFTO TV, The Globe and Mail, National Post, Toronto Star and Toronto Sun and various real estate trades, including Condo Guide and Condo Life magazines.

Speaking Opp Gains Wide & Positive Exposure For WorldCom (now MCI) Canada

A component of TCG’s 2002 Communications Plan for client WorldCom Canada was to source and secure high-profile Speaking Opportunities for select senior WorldCom executives.

For the right opportunity, WorldCom's Dr. Vint Cerf, Senior Vice President, Internet Architecture, agreed to participate and visit Toronto. Globally-known as the Father of the Internet, he and Robert E. Kahn designed the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) - the method by which data moves around the Net - the main architecture of the Internet itself.

TCG recommended Dr. Cerf speak at the Empire Club of Canada luncheon, November 14, 2002, one of Canada’s most respected and well-known venues.

TCG confirmed Dr. Cerf’s appearance and helped craft a compelling theme and presentation abstract. TCG also worked with WorldCom Canada’s Marketing team to develop a customer invitation.

Because of Dr. Cerf’s tight timeline, TCG managed a highly-targeted Media Relations program that would maximize exposure. Three 30-minute interviews (and photo sessions) were scheduled for senior technology/business reporters from three of Canada’s most prestigious newspapers. Other technology and business journalists were invited to attend the luncheon and scrum.

Coverage for WorldCom in Canada, despite difficult global business issues, resulted in very positive, prominent articles in the @ Biz section of The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail ROB and The Financial Post section of The National Post. Additional news items appeared in a variety of influential tech trade and on-line magazines.

CREWS Uses TCG To Help Solve Construction Employment Crisis

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has enjoyed record levels of construction-industry growth, yet the industry faces a critical shortage of construction workers.

Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC), Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), the Greater Toronto Home Builders' Association (GTHBA) in 2001 agreed to address worker shortages in the Ontario construction industry. As a result, a pilot project called CREWS was established to facilitate the entry of up to 500 temporary construction workers over two years.

Recognizing that domestic recruitment efforts failed to meet industry needs, the CREWS Project allowed temporary entry of qualified foreign construction workers (who met trade experience requirements) for two years to address the shortage of bricklayers, framers, form workers, cement finishers and labourers.

CREWS management understood that the key to the program’s success was to generate awareness and understanding with its target audiences and turned to The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) for help during 2002.

TCG developed an aggressive News Media Relations program, supported by a Stakeholder Awareness campaign. TCG worked with CREWS executives to prepare supporting materials and create newsworthy messaging.

Relevant broadcast and print reporters were contacted and extensive coverage was garnered in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Toronto Sun, and building and developer trades among others. TCG also engaged various editors and journalists at Ontario’s ethnic publications and managed a number of interviews for CREWS executives.

Awareness among key influencers- construction industry managers, builders, government and Ontario’s ethnic communities- grew considerably during TCG’s engagement, which helped CREWS reach its key benchmarks well ahead of schedule.

TCG Rolls Out Ontario Naturalists’ Message For A Smart Future

With 25 years of representing the communications needs of Ontario’s building and development industry, it was no surprise that the Federation of Ontario Naturalists (FON) turned to The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) and its real estate PR experience to help deliver their strategic messages for "Smart Growth".

The not-for-profit organization was also looking for a plan that would increase awareness of A Smart Future for Ontario, the first-ever book on curbing urban sprawl and protecting nature, written by the FON.

During Q1 and Q2, 2003, TCG recommended a focussed News Media Tour to leverage already-scheduled local FON workshops (London, Kitchener/Waterloo, Toronto, Guelph/Cambridge) to provide a regional foundation, poignancy and timeliness to the Program. The Tour was to generate connectivity and relationships with local journalists and to create awareness of the Organization and its core messages to the public and governments.

After working with the FON to identify its key messages and researching local ‘hot button’ issues, TCG scheduled and managed a succession of news media interviews in each market for FON Executive Director Jim Faught. Subsequent press, radio and TV coverage was qualitative and substantial and reaffirmed the FON as an important environmental voice in Ontario.

TCG Publicizes A Greenwin Community’s Revitalization

Once dubbed “Canada’s worst community” by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, the San Romanoway community at Toronto’s Jane/Finch intersection has a history of high youth unemployment and youth-related crime; until the buildings’ ownership and management committed to serious community renewal.

Led by Greenwin Property Management, ResREIT and the Glen Corporation together with various corporate entities including Home Depot and all levels of government, the San Romanoway Revitalization Association formed to provide social and cultural enrichment programs and site improvements for the community’s 4,400 residents.

As a model of community support and corporate involvement, Greenwin's PR Consultants, The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) promoted the Association throughout 2002. An ongoing program aimed at GTA journalists plus community and ethnic media was managed and executed by TCG during the first half of 2003.

The Communications Group secured and audited interviews with key spokespeople on site, wrote pitch materials and submitted by-lined articles to various publications.

After successfully building awareness and understanding of the Association’s mandate, Greenwin assigned TCG to manage Media Relations activities for its Playground Build Day; May 30/03.

At the event, San Romanoway Revitalization Association hosted over 150 residents, corporate volunteers and public officials who gathered to donate their time, resources and materials to cooperatively build a children’s playground, valued at $75,000.

Working with the Playground Build Committee and Greenwin’s Marketing team, TCG prepared a Public Relations Strategy. The Firm helped craft invitations to key public officials, prepared a Media Kit, wrote the project News Release and collateral materials and managed a News Conference attended by the majority of GTA-based print and broadcast reporters.

Condo Brands a Community, with TCG’s Help

During 2002 and in the Spring of 2003, Toronto condominium developers were on a branding mission; each seeking to create brand awareness, brand identity and, most important, brand equity.

While many were striving to mark their buildings, Montréal-based developer Canderel Stoneridge retained The Communications Group Inc. (TCG) to brand a community.

Working with their Marketing team, TCG leveraged Canderel Stoneridge’s two newest developments on King Street West-- the historic Massey Harris Lofts and the very contemporary DNA: Downtown’s Next Address-- to create an image for an entire neighborhood.

With an extensive positioning campaign, TCG helped create ‘King West- cool’. An ongoing program of aggressive outreach targeted at broadcast and print reporters lead to a wealth of coverage. From the real estate pages to design sections; from lifestyle programming to business news, a variety of pitches and creative angles allowed both projects to become a lynchpin for the King West story.

The TCG-managed campaign educated influential journalists about the resurgence of the King West area, its demographics, attributes and style. TCG then married those attributes to the area’s newest, high-profile condo development.

Real Estate Television on CFTO, Global TV and CITY’s Hot Properties were among the broadcasters telling and re-telling the King West story. Articles in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Toronto Sun, National Post, Town Crier Newspapers and various real estate trades featured DNA and the Massey Harris Lofts in the King West Village context. Typical headlines......“King West is the hottest urban location in the city” and “Downtown’s hip new address”.

These PR efforts helped Canderel Stoneridge reach record sales levels and position the Company to launch Phase II of DNA, one full year ahead of schedule.