Friday, November 14, 2014

Toronto Fitness Coach Makes Giant Leap from the Gym to the Silver Screen



By Paul Fitzgerald





Passion, determination, and drive are qualities many people desire and strive for as they are fundamental in the true definition of success.

For Francisca Dennis, a popular fitness coach, these traits come naturally and are the key reason why she is such a positive influence on others and successful in so many ways.

Simply put, she is a one-of-a-kind person – genuine, outgoing and charismatic, and her energy is downright contagious.

And when it comes to being in shape, she is a tough match to beat: from head to toe her body is in perfect form, which is complimented by her stunning smile and her elegant complexion.

I have always been internally motivated and driven. I’m in love with the process. It turns my crank to have a goal no matter what it is and step to it every day,” says Dennis during an interview at a local gym in Burlington, ON. 

The founder and owner of FD Lifestyle in Toronto, ON, has a long list of clients that she trains daily throughout the Greater Toronto Area and Toronto for that matter, and she is hailed as an icon in the fitness world.

And while the 44 year-old is a champion in her own right in the world of fitness, she is set to prove herself as an actor on the silver screen.

It’s a big leap from the gym, but she is ready for the challenge and the adventure.

Yes, she will no doubt be a star on the silver screen, but she is humble and yet poised to embark on a new and inimitable sort of excursion.

Dennis is gearing up to play a star role in the Road of the Dead, starring the notable Dan Richardson. The Nighthawk Production, directed by David Bispham and Danny Albury, will be filmed in the UK in 2015.

“I am the lead female and will play a kick-butt lieutenant opposite Dan Richardson, in this post-apocalyptic action movie,” she smiles. “I am super excited about this opportunity; I am simply elated.”

“My physicality and fitness background definitely helped me land this role. My character is a strong woman both mentally and physically. The directors saw that I could bring this to help bring my character to life and I was fortunate enough to get the job.”

Last fall the charming fitness guru also starred in X-Species, a FreeSpark Production, and she says it was an incredible experience working on the set in New Mexico.
“The scenery there was absolutely breathtaking,” she recalls.

“For one of the scenes I had to lay in on the ground for hours with my mouth agape.  Some of the crew were there just to keep the scorpions and snakes off the set, so of course this is going through my mind as I am laying there take-after-take. It was a thrilling adventure and I loved every minute of it - even with the threat of spiders crawling in my mouth during my death scene,” she laughs.

Dennis, who is a fitness coach, author, and speaker, contends that her passion for fitness and physicality is a gift that is meant to be shared.

“I’ve seen how I have been able to influence others and inspire them to start, to not give up and it means so much to me. I feel my purpose is to help people see the strength they have within. Motivating them to be their very own heroes,” she says.

While successful in on every level, she admits that her journey in life hasn’t been an easy one, but the gym and healthy living became her savior.

“I actually struggled with body image issues in my twenties,” she says. “I was so thin that I had to layer clothing on just so I wouldn’t feel like a walking skeleton.  I would hear hurtful names, comments and rumors of me having an eating disorder – which I didn’t have, but for the life of me I couldn’t put on weight no matter what I consumed.”

She adds, “I wanted to change my body composition so I started getting serious about weight training and educating myself on proper nutrition and supplementation. I began to see the results of my hard work and my stick arms were actually growing baby muscles which excited and motivated me to keep going, which is what I did and why I love ‘process’ or the ‘journey.’”

She also admits that she has had countless experiences in her life that have attributed to her inner drive.

“As a child of adoption, I think that I always had a need to prove something to the world and perhaps myself that I was good enough, that I was worthy,” she says.

As a teen mom she knew that she had to work harder than other young women her age so that certain circumstances would not dictate the future.

She grew up quickly, but she took the challenges head on and is better for it.

“I put my head down, went to school, got straight A’s, and raised my daughter while caring for my handicapped mother,” she says. “Again, I wanted to prove to myself and the world that no matter what situation you find yourself in, you control the outcome with your thoughts, your words, and your actions.”

Her father, who fought in the South Pacific during World War II, and who later went on to become a professor at the University of Windsor, along with her other adopted brothers and sisters were also true inspirations in her life.

“Our household was diverse, busy and unique on every level… There was support, love and we were taught that success comes from our own doing,” she says.

Believe it or not, Dennis is actually the mother of six children.

“My kids are older now and have been taught to be very self-sufficient, just like I was,” she says. “When they were younger I did most of my training online so that I could be home for them.  As for my own personal time to train I would go to the gym before they woke or worked out at home…Balance with kids comes down to planning for the most part. Meals, activities, friends can all be managed if planned properly.”

And if you think Dennis is busy enough training, speaking, acting, and being a loyal mother, she has somehow managed to find the time to further educate her fans and the general public on the importance of exercise and healthy living. She recently released a book, SoulPrinciples: 6 Steps to a Whole New You, and it is getting rave reviews from readers.

“I wanted to author a book so I can share some of the strategies that I had used myself for years to overcome obstacles and help simplify the ‘how,’ ‘when’ and ‘whys’ of reaching your potential and believing in your power,” she says. “I hear so many women who struggle to find peace with themselves, but they are usually the ones who are cutting themselves short and being their own worst enemy. It’s so prevalent and I wanted to address this.”

Dennis and her staunch commitment to fitness and healthy living are mirrored by prominent media outlets and she is grateful for the exposure to date. She has landed on the cover of countless fitness magazines, and she says the coverage has given her a stronger platform to reach people with her message of greater self-love and awareness.

“I really enjoy modeling and acting and being able to play in front of the camera as it all comes very natural to me. Being on set, the collaboration, being creative, meeting new people and sharing what I love is what makes it so much fun.”

While Dennis has become a woman of fame here locally and internationally, she has and always will remain committed in giving back to others what she has learned in life.

“I am so passionate about helping people to realize their true potentials,” she says. “The feedback I get continues to fuel my passion and further inspire me and for that I am so very grateful.”

And with any goal or journey, Dennis says the real trick to success and discovering your true inner self is all quit simple.

“Just hold tight to your intention, keep it first and foremost, be grateful, be humble and see the end result, not the obstacles,” she says.



Tuesday, April 15, 2014

H2 Systems Inc. Founder and Owner Highlights New Trends in Home Theatre Seating






By Paul Fitzgerald - From fabric seats to leather recliners, Clinton Howell offers tips on getting the right chairs for your home theatre or media room

Seating comfort and viewing angles are critical in a home theatre, according to Clinton Howell, founder and owner of H2 Systems Inc. in Burlington, ON.

The most theatre-like experience is where each person has their own seat, complete with table or cup holder.

“Seating choices run from recliners to theater seats and can include couches and love seats,” says Howell. “Seats can be movable or mounted and in just about any material that meets your design scheme. What is important is that they are comfortable. Most movies last over two hours, and any seating should allow comfort for long periods.”

H2 Systems Inc., located on Harvester Road, just recently unveiled its expansion and the launch of its new Experience Centre, a first of its kind in Canada. While the entire facility is wired with the latest and greatest in home theatre and home integration technologies, a large space is devoted to showcasing an array of seating options.

“Reclining seats are ideal,” suggests Howell during an interview at H2 Systems Inc. headquarters. “They allow custom seating angles and also adjust to viewing of the screen from different distances. For this reason, recliners are a popular option. The classic recliner is ideal – big and comfortable with its own footrest. Some models now have built-in drink holders.”

If you're ready to choose theatre seats, here are some features you should consider: Durable and easy to clean; Reclines with "zero wall clearance" to not interfere with seating or walls behind it; Substantial in weight or floor mountable; Comfortable for long seating sessions; Has built-in drink holder or storage

Premiere Popcorn machines are a classic that provide the look, and smell, of a movie theatre, says Howell.

“In addition to seating, other elements are important to have in a home theatre. A popcorn stand, concession stand and even theatre ‘now showing’ marquee all good to add to the entertainment experience,” he says.

When planning your home theatre layout, remember that even such theater accessories require power connections and lighting for use. It is good to think through which items you wish to have, where they will be in the room and plan for power and lighting for them early in the process.

Theatre accessories can be found in a variety of places, but there are many online sources that have a wide selection. You will be surprised how many varieties of popcorn makers and concession stands are available.

“Get creative and go with seating needs that suit your budget,” says Howell. “Most of all have fun. Having the seating you want will ensure you and your family, as well as your guests, are comfortable and entertained. Home theatres and media rooms are now more important than ever as they prove to bring families and friends closer together – it’s a unique bonding experience.”

H2, which specializes in Home Theatre and Home Integration, is the next generation in the home theatre and home integration. H2 Systems Inc. has also won five CEDIA Electronic Lifestyle Awards in its past four years of operation; two in 2010; two in 2011; one in 2012; and two in 2013. The company is now a household name in Burlington, across Halton and the Greater Toronto Area.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Sudbury IFFB Pro and Arnold Champ Named 2014 New Age Performance Sponsored Athlete




By Paul Fitzgerald, The London Free Press/The Sudbury Star

Jessica MacMillan-Falls is making a real name for herself these days.

Last month she was crowned best at the World’s Top Figure Competition at the Arnold Sports Festival, which earned her an International Federation of Bodybuilding (IFBB) Pro Athlete Card. There were over 600 top amateurs vying for this unique designation.

And today, the New Age Performance Group announced that she is a 2014 Sponsored Athlete for the company, which is an honour on many levels.

“The New Age Performance Team is thrilled to have Jessica on board,” says Rob Charlton, co-owner the popular company based out of Mississauga, ON. “Being named a Sponsored Athlete only solidifies Jessica’s leadership and commitment to the Figure industry and her staunch dedication with community outreach.”

MacMillan-Falls says she is elated to be given such a title.

“Words just can’t describe how I feel with being named as a member of the New Age Performance Team,” she says. “This is a unique and rare opportunity and marks a truly unique chapter in my career.”

The New Age Performance offers a unique and cutting-edge mouthpiece. The New Age Performance Mouthpiece is based on the principals of neuromuscular dentistry. The device is placed on your lower jaw, placing it in its optimal position.

Years of scientific research proves that when your jaw is aligned, it has positive benefits on the body.

Take the recent study by Rutgers University as an example. The esteemed institution via its sports and athletes research division have released a study on proper jawalignment and concluded it has a beneficial impact on overall athletic performance.

MacMillan-Falls is now using the device during her workouts in the gym and she is more than impressed with the results.

I feel better, more alive, stronger, and I have better balance, strength, flexibility and overall range of motion,” she says. “This device even helps alleviate pain of sorts which is an added bonus.”

MacMillan-Falls has always been into fitness and sports. While in high school she religiously played volleyball and running cross country.
However in 2002 she was involved in a car accident that injured her neck and back.
She found herself in constant pain and exhausted every avenue for options in full recovery.
It was then that a friend suggested that she look into strength training as a remedy. Intrigued with the idea, MacMillan-Falls got into the gym and she was hooked right away.
The rest is history.
By 2008 she had that true athletic moment calling to become a competitive bodybuilder. She set her sights on being a serious, natural competitor and a positive role model for women and girls of all ages.
MacMillan-Falls has been receiving all sorts of awards at many notable Figure competitions provincially and globally. She recently won the first place Figure Award from the Ontario Physique Association (OPA) and placed second overall at the 2013 IFBB North American Championships in Pittsburgh PA.
The list of notables using the New Age device is impressive. They include: Andew “Cobra” Rhodes, star on AMC’s Game of Arms; Jill Bunny who owns Team Bunny: Fit Bunnies Fitness and who was the only Canadian to place in the Top 5 for the Bikini Class F Competition at the 2014 Arnold Sports Festival; Ania Anvaryfar of A2 Fitness Inc. who just crowned the second place winner in the World’s Top Figure Competition the 2014 Arnold Sports Festival; and Peter Czerwinski, known as the popular ‘Furious Pete,’ who once battled against anorexia and was hospitalized at the Toronto Sick Kids Hospital and recovered through bodybuilding. There are also a large number of athletes in all sports biting on this new technology.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Leadership = Success

By Paul Fitzgerald - H2 Systems Inc. Of Burlington Wins a 2014 Business Excellence Award from Burlington Chamber of Commerce

H2 Systems Inc. of Burlington, ON, has just joined the elite ranks of companies which have been recognized as demonstrating the best in business leadership.
The Burlington Chamber of Commerce announced that the well-known home theatre and home integration company on Harvester Road have won a 2014 Business Excellence Award.
Clinton Howell, founder and owner of H2 Systems Inc., and his team, will be formally presented with the unique accolade at the Chamber’s Annual Gala Awards on April 10, 2014 at the Burlington Convention Centre.
Howell is elated that his company has been recognized for its excellence in leadership. After all, the long list of nominations are from his clients and which speaks volumes to the company’s innovative and forward thinking approach and its staunch commitment to its clients.
“We are tremendously proud to win the 2014 Business Excellence Award from the Chamber,” says Howell.
“Winning this award speaks volumes to the hard work and dedication our team provides and our promise of loyalty and top notch service to each and every client we work with.”
He adds with a smile, “And when you when an award like this it simply means you are doing things just right.”
Howell has built more than just a successful home theatre and home integration company here in town. Simply put, he evolved the company from a small "mom and pap" shop to a growing first class business that is a household name here Burlington and across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Howell’s expertise for homeowners is second to none on many levels. He is also a popular media figure as news outlets including The Toronto SunThe London Free PressThe Burlington PostThe Oakville NewsHOSS MagazineWOW MagazineThe Examiner and the Digital Journal, rely on his experience and insights when it comes to home theatre and integration solutions.
His company has just announced that are part of the Baeumler Approved contractor network. H2 will soon be showcased on Bryan Baeumler's House of Bryan 3.
The home electronics entrepreneur has been in business since the mid 1990’s and each year his company only continues to grow. He was the founder of Howell & Associates Inc. (H&A) in 1995, and after a decade of growing and developing the business, he sold Howell & Associates Inc. to Best Buy Canada. Best Buy worked directly with Howell to leverage his experience and knowledge to consult on the design and implementing of a home theatre installation program for Future Shop. Following this dynamic project, he negotiated the re-purchase of all of the business assets of H&A. With a fresh new vision, heightened focus and an optimized business model Howell launched a new chapter in his career, H2 Systems Inc.
Under his leadership, his roster of staff have grown through new job creation and his locale on Harvester Road in Burlington is now being expanded due to the ever-increasing volume of business from existing and new clients. The company’s facility even houses a dynamic state-of-the-art Entertainment Room like no other.
As well, under Howell’s leadership, H2 Systems Inc. has won seven CEDIA Electronic Lifestyle Awards in its past four years of operation; two in 2010 and two more in 2011, one in 2012; and two in 2013. Between H2 Systems Inc. and Howell & Associates they have 17 awards to date for home theatre and integration which is more than any other company in Canada.
Source: Examiner

Black Sabbath’s Guitarist Tony Iommi Wraps up Chemotherapy Treatments


By Paul Fitzgerald – Get ready Hamilton, ON, this Friday night at the First Ontario Credit Centre one of the world’s most popular heavy metal bands of all time will take to the stage and perform to an audience of over 15,000 people.
Yes, Black Sabbath is coming to town, and their North American tour is getting superb reviews. So, it’s going to be an electrifying night on many levels.
While the band has reunited and are now touring with their newly released Grammy-winning album, 13, keep in mind this just might be the last time you are going to ever see them together live. Let’s hope not though.
Only a week ago the band’s lead guitarist, Tony Iommi, completed his last chemotherapy treatment for lymphoma.
While the 66 year-old - one who has influenced many rock greats on the guitar – is back on the road, he is still cautious on saying he is cured for good.
“It's not too bad at the moment, dare I say,” Iommi, 66, says in his pleasant British accent in an interview with the Metroland Media and the Hamilton Spectator. “I'm bearing with it. I don't have any option so I just plod on. I finished the course of treatment last week. Now, I've just got to wait and see,”
When Iommi was diagnosed with cancer two years ago, many around him assumed right off the bat that we would pack in music, recording, and performing live, and focus mainly on getting better.
However, this rock star decided to up the ante and get back in the studio with his band mates and launch a worldwide tour like no other.
“I thought it was best for me to still focus on doing something as opposed to sitting at home moping about," he explains during his interview which has been published in local papers promoting the big show this Friday. “You can't help but worry about it. To me it meant that I was going to die. (At first), that's what I kept focusing on.”
“Then I realized I can't just sit here wondering how long I've got. It was great because the guys came to England and we worked in my studio here at home. They got my mind off it. They were keeping me occupied with jokes and things. They were caring and concerned for me. They were really supportive. I think it pulled us more together.”
Singer Ozzy Osbourne says that Iommi never let his treatments slow him down during the making of their new album and tour.
“My hat goes off to him 'cause he really is Iron Man," he says. "I mean, that chemotherapy knocks you sideways, you know. I mean, when my wife had cancer a few years back, she was having three chemo things a month and it would knock the life out of — literally every time she'd have a treatment, she'd have a seizure. It's scary stuff. But he came down, plugged in and carried on. He's my hero, I swear to God he is."
Set List for this Friday Night’s Show:
War Pigs
Into the Void
Under the Sun/Every Day Comes and Goes
Snowblind
Age of Reason
Black Sabbath
Behind the Wall of Sleep
N.I.B.
(Preceded by "Bassically" … more)
End of the Beginning
Fairies Wear Boots
Rat Salad
(with "Supernaut" instrumental and Drum Solo)
Iron Man
God Is Dead?
Dirty Women
Children of the Grave
Encore:
Paranoid