Beacher Mark Bishop and his business partner Matt Hornburg were recently honoured at a gala event with an Outstanding Acheivement award from Playback Magazine, the bible for the media industry in Canada.
“For us it’s a huge honour, because it’s coming from our own industry and our peers,” said Bishop.
Bishop’s and Hornburg’s company, marblemedia, creates and distributes television and multimedia content in more than 100 countries. Up to now, much of that content would likely be recognized by young TV viewers and their parents, such as the show Splatalot, aired on YTV in Canada, as well as versions in 12 languages in 120 countries.
One of the hallmarks of marblemedia was an early adoption of digital technology – everything from predictions of viewers watching programs on their phones to adding interactive games as part of the full viewing experience. Bishop said the pair were often laughed at when they spoke about the topic in the company’s early days.
“Twelve years ago when we talked about digital, many people thought we were crazy,” he said.
Now it’s such an integrated part of the content production process that it’s not even considered a separate product, just another part of the overall production.
Bishop said marblemedia is currently working on expanding into young adult and adult prime time scripted programming, both in the drama and comedy genres. However, the upcoming launch of a new family game show, a staple marblemedia type of show, is what he’s currently excited about. Japanizi Going Going Gong! is set to debut on YTV in November, and it’s already been sold in 110 countries.
Expansion into new content is the current goal of the company, with the further integration of digital media with traditional television viewing.
Though it’s only been 12 years since the company started, 50 employees and offices in Toronto, L.A. and London are a long way from the early days of marblemedia.
“Matt and I and our first employee sat at the dining room table in my apartment in the Annex. I had very patient roommates,” said Bishop with a laugh.
Don Holmes recently celebrated the opening of his PRO Martial Arts – Toronto Beaches studio, in the Victoria Crossing plaza at the northeast corner of Gerrard Street East and Victoria Park Avenue.
Holmes was a corporate executive, but he said “I just didn’t want to do it anymore.”
After searching for options, he decided to open the self-defence school, in order to help children stay healthy, stay safe and build character.
“There’s very few businesses out there that can change people’s lives,” he said.
Though the studio is a karate school, character development is a large part of the curriculum, teaching kids discipline, manners, how to develop good habits and focus energy. A special program, called the ARMOUR program, focuses on anti-bullying and anti-predator education for children, though classes are available for adults of every age as well.
“It’s really about educating and empowering kids,” said Holmes.
For more on PRO Martial Arts, visit the website, or call 416-694-8000.
The Beacher Café has brought in a new chef to liven up its nighttime menu.
William DeSousa trained at the City and Guilds of London Institute in England. A 20-plus year career and extensive world travels bring some welcome variety to his dishes. He has worked mostly in hotels, as well as Sassafraz in Yorkville.
A Beach resident, his food philosophy is to buy local, cook seasonal and keep the menu simple, letting food speak for itself. Daily dinner specials on a prix fixe menu from Wednesday to Sunday are complimented by a low $10 corkage fee for bring-your-own wine.
Owners Peter and Kumiko Martineau are looking forward to offering downtown plates at Beach prices. For more information, visit thebeachercafe.com.
PHOTO: Andrew Hudson
The Leslieville Medical Centre and Physical Therapy One opened recently at the Loblaws at Eastern Avenue and Leslie Street.
Offering a walk-in clinic, as well as physiotherapy, chiropractor, massage therapy, exercise therapy and more, the clinic offers a new location for health services in the East End.
Leslieville Medical Centre is owned and operated by Dr. Humaira Cassam. There is a pharmacy on-site as well.
Currently the clinic is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday to Friday, though extended hours are planned. for the future.
For more info, call 416-465-6606 or email lmclakeshore@gmail.com.
Did you enjoy this article? Become a Beach Metro Community News Supporter today! For 50 years, we have worked hard to be the eyes and ears in your community, inform you of upcoming events, and let you know what and who is making a difference. We cover the big stories as well as the little things that often matter the most. CLICK HERE to support your Beach Metro Community News!
