November 19, 2014
The panel topic and panelists
The International Avenue Business Revitalization Zone held its Annual General Meeting last night at Artbox on 17th. Local BRZ business members were in attendance at the event, including members of the BRZ’s Board of Directors, one of which is our own Fredric Litwiniuk. The meeting featured delicious multicultural cuisine from local restaurants Krazy Jerk, Fusion 303, Tim’s Café, Gunther’s Bakery, and Joey’s Urban.
Following the meeting, there was a panel discussion with local business leaders entitled The Secret of My Success, moderated by Gita Boyd of immigration consulting firm Gita Boyd & Associates. The panellists were Dave Eide of Mr. Fireplace, Ron Ala from Pacific Hut restaurant, local landowner and businessman B. Mann, and Litwiniuk & Company’s Managing Partner, L.D. Todd Litwiniuk.
Todd accepting thank you gift from Gita Boyd, moderator
Todd spoke fondly to the crowd about the history of our family and firm on International Avenue:
“My dad set up shop in an office building just up the street from where we are now, and we’ve been part of this community since 1976. In summers, when my brother Fred and I were kids, we used to swim at the Forest Lawn pool, and grab a Slurpee at the 7-11.”
“We grew up in this community, and the firm grew too. My dad always made a point of getting to know his neighbours and frequenting the shops and restaurants up and down the street, and we do the same. That community connection is part of what has made us so successful over the past 39 years – we can’t imagine being anywhere else”
The Litwiniuk family’s involvement in the area is multi-generational, as is the case with many local businesses. “I sit on the board with Mike Shymka of the Town and County Motor Inn,” says Fredric.
Todd with BRZ Executive Director Alison Karim-McSwiney
“Mike’s dad Ernie is a lawyer, and when my dad Larry was starting out, he actually worked for Ernie. Now Mike and I work together in a different way on the BRZ. It’s nice to know that there are other people and businesses that have longevity and continue to support Forest Lawn.”
As the street redevelops, it is important to maintain the vibrant multicultural character of the neighbourhood, and keep it a fun, diverse, and affordable place to work, live and play. Litwiniuk & Company is proud of our connection to Forest Lawn and International Avenue, and we’re committed to working with the BRZ, the City of Calgary, and our community partners to make this great area even greater.
Litwiniuk & Company’s commitment to community is sustained through investments in people, in relationships, and the promise to make a difference in people’s lives.
