Local businessman Joe Clare was the owner of the building at 9206-95 Avenue when he heard that the founders of the Massage Therapy Supply Outlet were considering retirement. He stepped up and took on the company in January of 2012.
"I've always been interested in massage therapy, and when I was younger I considered becoming a massage therapist," Joe said. Though his life took him on another road, now as owner and CEO of MTSO he's come full circle and has met up with that earlier dream!
Ethics and Whole Sources
Joe's personal initiatives for the store all circle around the ideas of local, sustainable, natural, organic, whole products that are ethically sourced and produced. Wherever possible he encourages recycling, upcycling and repurposing. He supports community initiatives, including family businesses and women's initiatives, whether local or international.
Art and Community
Active for many years in both art and community, MTSO owner, Joe Clare had commissioned art for the exterior of the building well before he acquired the store. The landmark mural Free Rain, by artist James K-M, graces one wall. See Strathearn Mural site for more info. Revisioning and Auricle by sculptor Debora Alanna are featured on the other wall and grounds. For years Joe has planted a garden at the side and back of the building.
Joe set up a picnic 
table by the garden for local neighbours to stop by and chat. And located just outside the store is a Little Free Library, with books free for the taking. Joe has also built a Francophone Little Free Library that is located just a block down, across the street, featuring books in French. Each year on Remembrance Day, the community places poppies on the Remembrance Tree by the picnic table.