Local businesses in the spotlight during annual Chamber awards night

November 19, 2014 · 0 Comments

King Weekly Sentinel Editor Mark Pavilons (right) presented the People’s Choice Award to Roland Nersisyan of Holland Marsh Wineries.
By Mark Pavilons
Staying true to the “shop local” idea, King businesses are thriving.
Things are really happening in King Township and the King Chamber of Commerce recognized its business members last week. A handful of local operations were given their just desserts, to celebrate the strong support and business ties in this municipality.
The Chamber’s annual Excellence in Business Awards dinner was held at Nobleton Lakes Golf Club last Wednesday, drawing a good crowd of supportive members.
Chamber president Tom Allen and Tree Frog sponsor Sean Stephens presented the Excellence in Small Business Award, won by King Print + Design. Lucy Belperio accepted the award. The award is for a company that displays community involvement and commitment to the development of business in King.
King Print + Design started when the owner of the parent company, Tysus Media, fell in love with King. They have been providing convenient local printing and design solutions for more than five years.
King Print understands the needs of small business and proudly serves the community. They have supported many causes, such as the Chamber, King Township Food Bank, NobleKids, local churches and the Pink Tree Foundation.
Tina DiSimone, dean at Seneca College, presented the Excellence in Large Business Award to John’s No Frills in Nobleton. John Ciarallo accepted the award. The award honours a business that willingly supports the community and other local businesses.
Ciarallo has been with Loblaw companies for 34 years and his career has included various store operation management positions. His career took him across Canada to establish franchises. He launched his own No Frills franchise in Thornhill, which he operated until he created the new store in Nobleton in 2012. No Frills is also a community partner and supporter of many local events and causes.
Councillor Debbie Schaefer presented the Sustainable King Award for a company that participates in environmental leadership. This business shows a commitment to the environment and shares information to help others be become more aware of how they can make a difference and contribute in environmental leadership.
The recipient was Schomberg’s Foodland, owned by Rocco Macri.
Macri, 62, immigrated from Italy in 1959 and moved to Woodbridge in 1984. Rocco and his wife Sandra have been married for 34 years and have two daughters.
Macri has been in the grocery business for almost 40 years and in 1999 he became a Foodland franchisee. He enjoys going to work on a daily basis and serving his community any way he can. He beams with pride at his recently renovated supermarket.
Jim Kassam and James Monteath from KARS teamed up to present the Excellence in a New Business Award. This year’s recipient is Raffaele’s Cantina in Nobleton. Louie and Raffaele Maietta accepted the award.
The father and son team joined forces to bring fine Italian cuisine, a downtown culinary experience, to the country.
The former owner of the Italian bakery in Nobleton, Louie brings decades of experience in the restaurant and catering business to the table. He converted the old Tower Burger restaurant into the attractive focal point it is today, with chef Raffaele making magic in the kitchen.
Together they have created a family and community oriented environment, complete with an open concept kitchen area, outdoor patio and hands-on approach.
Allen and Mike Foley, of Foley restoration, honoured the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This award honours an individual with vision; shows growth and overcomes obstacles, while creating a special niche within their business sector.
This year’s recipient was Harry Hoare, of H.R. Horizon Realty Ltd. Unfortunately, he was not able to attend to accept his award.
Harry is a life-long King Township resident, currently living in Schomberg.
He has three children and he loves working, living and playing in King.
He has been a licenced real estate agent since 1997 and opened his Horizon in 2009. He has been a member of the Schomberg Lions Club since 2010 and enjoys helping the community when he can.
Hockey has always been a huge passion for Harry and he currently plays on the Schomberg Men’s League. He has coached minor hockey in Schomberg and Nobleton over the years.
He believes operating as a smaller brokerage has allowed him to focus on individual client needs and wants in the ever-changing residential, commercial and investment property markets.
The public has spoken and this year’s winner of the People’s Choice Award is The Holland Marsh Wineries. This award was open to the public and the business demonstrates outstanding customer service, growth and community involvement.
Mark Pavilons, editor of the King Weekly Sentinel, was on hand to present the award to owner Roland Nersisyan.
Raised in eastern European tradition, Roland was brought up believing wine is a cultural symbol to be appreciated and enjoyed.
Starting with his grandfather, the process of making and enjoying fine wine has been passed down for three generations. His son Norie shares his passion.
Holland Marsh Wineries was established in 2008 and the facility is a perfect marriage on an excellence piece of property at the outskirts of the Marsh. The facility offers much more than wine, and is a destination for visitors, many of whom enjoy guided tours.
The team at Holland Marsh Wineries is hand-picked by Roland and consists of professionals.
Mayor Steve Pellegrini praised the Chamber and the local success stories that help keep King vibrant.