1988-present:  Avia has worked with her husband, Bill (third generation Holland Marsh Farmer), to grow their edible horticulture business in the Holland Marsh.   Avia  is also finishing up her second term on the Catholic Women’s League executive.   Avia is currently on her second term as a Director on the Board for the Holland Marsh Growers’ Association (www.hollandmarshgold.com)  and has done extensive work promoting the Holland Marsh to consumers through various forms of media.  It is through this affiliation that she decided to run for Councillor for Ward 6. 

1982-1993:  Avia was employed as a Legal Secretary for a prestigious law firm in Aurora, Ontario until  her and husband, Bill, started a family at which time she became a stay-at-home Mom,  and assumed more responsibilities with respect to running the family farm. 

1981-1982: Avia attended Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology (King Campus) for a one-year  course and obtained her  Legal Secretary Certificate. 

Avia, Bill and their two teenage children continue to be involved in a variety of charitable organizations, and farm organizations.   They reside in the Holland Marsh (Ward 6)  in the house that was originally built by Bill’s parents in 1951.