Christmas off to a great start as C.J. Group holds another Open House extraordinaire

Christmas celebrations to close out 2015 came early to many members of the printing community in Ontario and across North America recently. Arguably the largest and most-attended (and best stocked!) pre-holiday celebration and party in our industry – the C.J. Group of Companies’ 27th Annual Open House and Social – was held on Friday, December 4 at C.J. Graphics’ Etobicoke, Ontario production facility.
The popular annual event is not just a meeting place for the who’s who in the printing industry, but raises funds for the C.J. Skateboard Park & School and its special needs programs, the Daily Bread Food Bank and other important charities.
As always, Jay Mandarino, President and CEO of the C.J. Group of Companies, doubled as host and auctioneer, with all funds going to charity.

A live auction of high‐end prizes and a silent auction raised over $19,000, with proceeds going to the special‐needs programs offered by the C.J. Skateboard Park & School.
Some 1,545 people, including the trade media and competitors, as well as families who use the C.J. Skateboard Park & School, attended. As one of Canada’s leading commercial printers, C.J. Graphics has won more awards than any other printer in Canada.
The non-profit C.J. Skateboard Park & School offers year-round supervised skateboarding, scooter riding and inline skating, as well as lessons, camps and classes to all children in the community. The Park & School also underscores the contributions made by C.J. Graphics and the C.J. Group of Companies, as well as other members of our industry whose philanthropic and altruistic efforts go unheralded far too often, in my humble opinion.

I attended this event and my all-time favourite was once again the hot dogs and juicy hamburgers from Woody’s Burgers. Returning favourites included an oyster bar, beer, wine and soft-drink bars, and stations for sushi, desserts, pulled pork, pizza, sandwiches, fresh cheeses and more.
Volunteers from the Daily Bread Food Bank were on hand for a food and fundraising drive. Guests donated 1,500 lbs. of food, and C.J. matched cash donations dollar‐for‐dollar for a total of $2,000.

Lively music was provided by a DJ with a special guest appearance by none other than former Toronto Argonaut running back Michael “Pinball” Clemons.
In the 138-year history of the Argonauts, you’d be hard-pressed to find a Toronto football star who’s brought more pride to this city and is more respected that the diminutive Clemons. His message to those at the party, especially the young people who attended, was equally inspirational: “Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.”
He was referring to the fact that, because of his small stature, many told him early on in his career that he would never become a professional football player. As it turned out, he became not just an exceptional player, but a true CFL star – both on and off the field.

Once again, I found the entire evening to be a wonderful chance to meet old colleagues, make new friends, give to worthwhile charities, and enjoy great food and drink.
I’d like to personally thank Jay Mandarino, his wife Lorena, and his friendly, hard-working staff for once again putting on such a fabulous event (and for adding about two pounds to my already overweight frame). Thanks also to the many volunteers who gave their time and energy to such altruistic causes. I can’t wait for next year!