Biz X magazine February 2019

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION Getting Reacquainted With The Newly Appointed Consul General Of Canada In Detroit — Joe Comartin (RIGHT) THE PARENTING BIZ: Beating The Winter Blues & Special March Break Camp Directory February 2019

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Mega-hospital Site Critics Offer Evidence Of Biased Process Home Builders’ Association Awards; Windsor Chamber BEA Finalists; Honouring Area REALTORS and much more!

“Come Along For The Ride”

Sit back, relax, and read your favourite magazine as concepts like the Nissan IMs whisk you away in style. Driverless cars may be the future, but at this year’s “North American International Auto Show” there definitely was a “blast from the past.” — Page 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

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FOR BUSINESSES & PEOPLE IN WINDSOR, ESSEX COUNTY & METRO DETROIT SINCE 1998

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table of contents February 2019 volume 22 • issue 2

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4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Windsor Essex Organizations At The Detroit Auto Show 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Were Mega-Hospital Site Selection Figures “Doctored?”

Mega-hospital urban sprawl champions continue to make light of a persistent campaign not to close Windsor core hospitals (see top photo of front lawn protest sign). The champs also dismiss critics who say the process to select the county road location for the proposed regional mega-hospital was unfair and lacked integrity, but a March hearing could knock them off their high horse, writes columnist Alan Halberstadt.

8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Meet The 20th Consul General Of Canada In Detroit “Say it IS so Joe” as our own Joe McParland interviews the newly appointed Consul General of Canada in Detroit, Joe Comartin, who is pictured (inset front cover photo provided courtesy of the Consulate General of Canada in Detroit) in his 11th floor office at the Ren Cen. The view from his window appropriately includes downtown Windsor and our local casino, proving Comartin is a sure bet to do great things for our region!

14 Newsflash There has been plenty going on in the Windsor business world since our last issue was published, including the annual Advocis Windsor luncheon. Among the 70 guests in attendance were members from the Clark Financial Group (in middle photo by Rod Denis) represented by Chris Clark, Shelly Webster, Sue Reaume and Rick Clark. What else happened at the luncheon? What other local business changes have recently occurred?

Our Newsflash column has the answers you are looking for!

16 Dates To Remember 24 Tech Bytes: NEW! Welcome To Mobility City!

25 Take The Lead: Director, Producer And Writer, Ziad Hamzeh 26 Portfolio Corner 27 XX Files: Katherine Possami, Parkway Massage Therapy 28 Hot Shots: Windsor-Essex County Association Of REALTORS 2018 “Appreciation Luncheon” 31 Ask The Experts: Harris Heating & Air Conditioning Services Inc. 32 Awards Spotlight: The Windsor Essex Home Builders’ Association Inc.’s “Golden Hammer” Award Recipients 35 Food For Thought: The Hoagie Market, Walker Road, Windsor 36 THE PARENTING BIZ: Winter Activities & March Break Camp Directory March Break is almost upon us — so what are some bright ideas for kids (photo at left: © Can Stock Photo/ Yarruta) to do this winter when school is out? Whether it be a weeknight, weekend or an entire week, parents are always looking for fun and educational things to do with their children. Across the Windsor Essex region, there are many different businesses offering alternatives, including indoor archery, axe-throwing, outdoor nature walks and educational activities, arcade games, glo-golf, and indoor rock climbing. And when March 11 to 15 hits, area businesses and organizations aim to keep your child busy during the break with lots of cool things to do.

48 Awards Spotlight: Presenting The Finalists For The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce 29th Annual “Business Excellence Awards” 52 From The Bookshelf: Fave Car Stories & An Heroic Nurse 53 The Way It Was: It’s Teatime!

54 Biz Of The Month: School House Academy Daycare Services & Early Learning Centre, Windsor

ON THE COVER — “Come Along For The Ride!” — 18

Our cover model relaxes with Biz X magazine’s 2018 auto show edition, as she speeds along in the autonomous Nissan IMs Concept.

The vehicle, unveiled at the 2019 “North American International Auto Show,” in Detroit, is a completely new type of car — an “elevated sports sedan” that takes advantage of the packaging, platform and powertrain technology developed through Nissan Intelligent Mobility.

With a fetching design and the ability to drive itself, the future of automobiles is going to be quite interesting. Find out what we discovered at the show in our annual review. Note: For information on inset photo of the Consul General of Canada in Detroit Joe Comartin, see page 12 above.

COVER CREDITS: Beckey Holmes-Tofflemire wears a Frank Lyman design gold and black textured Moto Jacket with gold zipper detail, a black top with built in gold necklace and black Jersey pull on pants provided by Anne’s On The Avenue, 1695 Manning Road, Tecumseh. Photo by Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com).

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from the publisher

The Windsor Essex Region . . .

“Where Canada Begins”

By Deborah Jones I cannot think of a better way to kick start our annual auto show review coverage than with a quick article explaining how area organizations collaborated on a common goal to build awareness of Windsor Essex as a premier location for mobility innovation. They also showcased the cluster of automation and technological advancements available to the automotive sector in the region.

Several key organizations from Windsor Essex recently partnered to form a significant presence during press and industry days at the “North American International Auto Show” (NAIAS) from January 14 to January 17, 2019.

The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC), the University of Windsor, St. Clair College and WEtech Alliance were on hand with their teams to host the “Windsor Essex — Where Canada Begins” booth at the “AutoMobili-D” Exhibit.

“The four organizations are all working together to better support the Windsor Essex region,” states Susan Anzolin, Executive Director for the Institute for Border Logistics and Security

(a WE EDC department). She adds, “Together we can really achieve a lot more.”

Over four days, partners networked extensively with C-level executives of major mobility OEMs and bolstered the region’s reputation amongst growing mobility tech companies.

The strategic design elements of the “Where Canada Begins” exhibit promoted the region’s assets and highlighted our strategic locale situated within North America’s automation and innovation corridors. Using curated graphics and videos, the region’s great quality of life, access to global talent, and a strong and stable economic base, were shared with NAIAS attendees.

The Windsor Mayor, Drew Dilkens and Essex County Warden and Mayor of Tecumseh, Gary McNamara, were also in attendance (along with the group in the accompanying photo).

This provided them with the opportunity to see and meet with stakeholders and the 60 start-ups from around the world featured at “AutoMobili-D,” which highlighted innovative technologies, from artificial intelligence and machine learning to autonomous

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Photographed at the Windsor Essex booth at the “AutoMobili-D” Exhibit, from left (seated): Yvonne Pilon, President & CEO of WEtech Alliance; K.W. Michael Siu, Vice President, Research at the University of Windsor; Wendy Stark, WE EDC Manager, Business Retention and Expansion. (Standing): Ed Dawson, WE EDC Mobility Analyst; Heather Pratt, Executive Director, Research and Development at the University of Windsor, Office of Research and Innovation Services; Tina Suntres, Innovation Administration Coordinator, Office of Research and Innovation Services at the University of Windsor and Susan Anzolin, Executive Director, Institute for Border Logistics and Security. Photo by Rod Denis.

and connected platforms, as well as infrastructure communications and security applications.

“NAIAS attracts the highest concentration of global industry leaders to Detroit and is the perfect backdrop to showcase the creativity and innovation happening in the Windsor-Detroit region,” says Dilkens. “The strength of our shared history in automotive positions us well for the future and we are excited share our story with global leaders at the 2019 NAIAS.” Great work everyone, let’s hope this effort pays off in the long run!

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editorial viewpoint

Engineer Spencer Convinced Hospital Figures Altered

By Alan Halberstadt *If you have a comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com

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fter three years of punting the can down the road over the baffling selection of the urban sprawl location for the proposed $2 billion acute care mega-hospital for Windsor Essex, nagging doubts persist.

They come in the form of a letter written by consulting engineer Rick Spencer, dated January 25, 2016, to GEM Properties Inc. GEM, an amalgam of five low profile property owners headed by George Papp of Papp Plastics, commissioned R.C. Spencer Associates Inc. to review an analysis of the facts and figures he previously submitted to the Site Selection Committee of Windsor Regional Hospital on behalf of the two short-listed proponents.

The purpose of re-deploying Spencer was to support an injunction, filed by GEM December 22, 2015, to halt a $6 million sale of a farmer’s field site on County Road 42, and a $10 million lawsuit against Windsor Regional, disputing the fairness and integrity of the verdict by the 11 person site selection committee.

The injunction was subsequently dropped and the lawsuit settled after the hospital chilled its foes by bringing in big legal guns from Toronto to escalate litigation costs well above the means and will of the GEM partners.

“Recommendations and costs The earnest group were misrepresented,” says also didn’t want to Rick Spencer. Photo courtesy jeopardize the chances of R.C. Spencer Associates Inc. of Windsor Essex getting the hospital, as suggested by Windsor Regional CEO David Musyj.

Spencer’s letter vigorously disputed comments from hospital officials presented as facts, in a January 8, 2016 Windsor Star article, to justify the choice of the O’Keefe property, the bean field on County Road 42, over the fully-serviced GEM property at the east Windsor confluence of Tecumseh Road and Lauzon Parkway.

He concluded the numbers were skewed, underscoring suspicions that somebody from above tampered with the figures of a complex 32 criteria scoring system.

GEM was ranked the best site out of 22 applicants in the first phase of the competition.

When price of the land was factored in, accounting for 30 percent of the final score, the O’Keefe

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property jumped ahead because its land was $1.6 million cheaper.

“That’s peanuts,” Spencer told me, referring to the $1.6 million when compared to the huge cost advantages of the GEM site identified in his original April 16, 2015 reports on behalf of GEM and O’Keefe.

“We were advised at the Phase 2 Site Selection Committee meeting that Stantec Consulting would review all reports to ensure consistency with the cost estimates submitted and would liaise directly with our firm to obtain agreement on same,” Spencer wrote in his four page letter to the GEM officials.

Spencer claims that consultation never happened, despite altered calculations and excluded known taxpayer costs from the final Phase 2 site evaluation that crowned the O’Keefe property the winners.

Spencer told me he was originally advised by Stantec that they were in agreement with his cost analysis, which determined there was only a minor external cost ($20,000 for a lift pump station) assessed to the in-fill GEM site, since sanitary sewers, water mains, hydro and gas servicing and ample back-up feeds have long been in place.

Yet, the Windsor Star article, gleaned from a news conference attended by Musyj on January 7, 2016, stated that the infrastructure costs directly tied to the hospital site at County Road 42 would be less than the cost for the GEM site.

“That’s nonsense,” Spencer told me. “The O’Keefe site external costs included the extension of almost two kilometres of a 300 mm diameter water main and an ‘external’ outfall sewer to the Little River watercourse,” he wrote in his letter.

He continues, “The external cost was $580,000 more for the O’Keefe site (than the GEM site) and it did not include any allowance for hydro distribution upgrades or plant extension if required.”

Transportation is the second major discrepancy in the comparative analysis. “There is no comparison between the two sites from the transportation perspective,” says Spencer flatly.

Firstly County Road 42 is a two lane arterial road that requires an estimated $25.7 million to upgrade to four lanes. By comparison, access to the GEM site is via Tecumseh Road which was recently upgraded to six lanes.

“It appears they have changed the criteria provided in the RFP (Request For Proposals),” says Spencer.

The County Road 42 site was assigned a price B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

of $100,000 per acre of land by the hospital consultants, plus extra costs estimated at $1.4 million, while the GEM site was asking $136,000 an acre plus $925,400 in extra costs.

“The extra costs (assigned to GEM) are significantly more than our external services costing and should have been reviewed with our firm,” Spencer wrote in his letter.

I asked Spencer if he felt the final report was doctored, pardon the pun.

“Certainly the results of the recommendations and costs were misrepresented,” he comments.

The hospital selection committee threw a couple of cost-crippling red herrings into the Phase 2 mix by including $26.9 million in upgrades to Tecumseh Road East to Banwell Road, and previously ignored Jefferson Boulevard, in the GEM calculations.

“What does Jefferson have to do with anything?” asks a clearly rankled Spencer of the new requirement to upgrade Jefferson from two lanes to four. “Jefferson does not have arterial road status and is quite limited in length, i.e. E.C. Row Expressway to Tecumseh Road East, and does not have a full interchange at the Expressway.”

There is also no need to improve Tecumseh to Banwell, he adds, since any county traffic travelling westward to the GEM site can easily access it from E.C. Row and Lauzon Parkway.

Spencer says the Phase 2 costs of $26.9 million wrongly assigned to the GEM site for non-required access roads, plus the infrastructure needs not assigned to O’Keefe, easily offsets the $1.6 million O’Keefe advantage in the cost of the land.

All of this information and misinformation could be on the table when the province’s Local Planning Appeal Tribunal stages a case management conference in Windsor on March 30.

The Tribunal is investigating whether the city violated good provincial and municipal planning and anti-urban sprawl principles by rezoning the Country Road 42 site from agriculture to residential and institutional.

Eric Gillespie, Lawyer for Citizens for an Accountable Mega-hospital Planning Process (CAMPP), which opposes the bean field site, should have fertile ground if Spencer is asked to testify.

Notified of Spencer’s assertions in this column, Windsor Regional forwarded this statement: “The GEM lawsuit was unsuccessful in obtaining an injunction and also was withdrawn as a result of lacking any merit. This was stated from the start by Windsor Regional Hospital and confirmed by the end result. It (the Spencer letter) has been referred to on many occasions by the small group that opposes the project. It is old news that is of little value.”

I understand fireworks could erupt due to evidence permitted at the Tribunal hearings, although the bean field champions, perhaps unwisely, do not seem to be concerned.

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FRONTLINES

MP Visit Highlights Support For Visible Minority Newcomer Women In Windsor The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that newcomers have the support and services they need to make the most of their talents and experience, in order to fully integrate and contribute to the Canadian economy and to their communities.

Newcomer women who are members of a visible minority group may face multiple barriers to success, including gender and race-based discrimination, precarious or low income employment, lack of affordable childcare and weak social supports.

Recognizing these challenges, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is providing additional funding of up to $5 million to 10 service provider organizations across Canada, over the next three years, to increase employment supports and services for newcomer women.

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) provides counselling, mentoring, networking and work placements for newcomer women. This local organization also provides information and assists newcomer women in finding employment

tailored to their skills and education. It has strong, well-established partnerships with several local employers and invites them to deliver presentations at sessions with clients.

At the end of last year, WEST welcomed Kate Young, Member of Parliament for London West, to Windsor, on behalf of the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, to announce WEST will receive an increase in funding of $310,000 to support the organization in serving more visible minority newcomer women in the area.

Rose Anguiano Hurst, WEST Executive Director states, “Connecting women to the workforce is a WEST priority. Each year, our organization assists more than 3,000 women find employment and understands the value in creating opportunities that enable women, experiencing barriers and/or challenges, to explore their potential. This program will positively impact our participants, as well as the Windsor and Essex County business community, by affording our organization the opportunity to expand our services to visible

Posing at the funding announcement on December 18, 2018, from left are: Rose Anguiano Hurst, WEST Executive Director; Kate Young, MP London West and Gemma Grey Hall, WEST Board President.

Photo courtesy of WEST.

minority newcomer women. The program will include delivery of a eight week, in-class training program, followed by a five-week hands-on work placement to aid participants enhance their employable skills and integrate into Canadian workplace culture.”

Learn more about these services by logging on to: WestOfWindsor.com.

Vendors Needed For Celebration Of Creativity And Hands-On Learning The “Windsor-Essex Mini Maker Faire” returns to Windsor on Sunday, March 24, 2019 and organizers are looking for vendors for the event.

A maker faire is a family-friendly event that celebrates technology, education, science, arts, crafts, engineering, food, sustainability, and making things of all kinds.

Vendors who spotlight invention, creativity, curiosity and/or hands-on learning, can apply for the event and help inspire the community. There is no cost to be a vendor (no sales are allowed), but interactivity is the goal.

“We gather fascinating people who love sharing what they can do,” says organizer Sydney Thompson, Program Lead at the University of Windsor’s EPICentre. “Last year we had naturalists and inventors and crafters all in one place, showing visitors

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Led by the Villanova WiredCats FIRST Robotics team, children build and test toothbrush robots at the 2018 “WindsorEssex Mini Maker Faire.” Photo courtesy of Michael LePine & Leo Cardelli.

how things worked and inviting them to try it out. It’s not just for the kids though, everyone gets to participate.”

Citizens with hobbies, experiments, or projects they want to share should apply

by February 25, 2019, on the website: WindsorEssex.MakerFaire.com.

Selected applicants can showcase their B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

experience to the public on March 24, 2019 at the University of Windsor’s School of Creative Arts (Armouries Building, 37 University Avenue East) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Admission to the public is free. Guests are asked to register online via the event website, which links to EventBrite.

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HEARD ON THE STREET The former home of the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator at 720 Ouellette Avenue has been sold, but there’s no public word yet on the future of the building. Brook Handysides of CBRE Ltd. explains that a Toronto investor has purchased the building along with the former home of Woody’s Outhouse and a number of adjacent parking lots and is now actively seeking tenants for all the properties. “We’ve been out to the market since mid-December with an active leasing campaign and we’ve had some significant interest so far,” notes Handysides. After a number of years of government and institutional investment in the city core, including projects led by the University of Windsor and St. Clair College, Handysides informs us there is now growing interest from the private sector.

“There’s no question the city’s streetscaping project along the Ouellette corridor south of Wyandotte Street has made the area more attractive to investors and tenants,” he adds. There has also been some investment interest in the former HMCS Hunter building at 960 Ouellette, which CBRE has listed for sale at $1.25 million. As for the Accelerator, it is now located at 1501 Howard Avenue after starting up almost eight years ago at the corner of Ouellette Avenue and Tuscarora Street.

A busy intersection on the border between Tecumseh and Lakeshore is about to get even busier with the addition of a Food Basics grocery store. The store — expected to be

open by early summer — will be located at the corner of Manning Road and Amy Croft Drive, just yards away from a popular Sobeys store. Jonathan Lot, Vice-President of Operations for Petretta Construction, which is developing the property, says the five-acre site will also include a 7,000 sq. ft. development adjacent to the grocery store as well as a separate pad at the front of the development. “The front pad can accommodate one tenant or be sub-divided for as many as four,” says Lot. There will be one entrance from the plaza at Amy Croft and Manning and another further north off Manning. “It’s a perfect location for any commercial or retail business that requires a drive-through, such as a restaurant or a financial institution,” adds Lot.

After years of rumours, speculation and aborted plans, the city’s far-eastern suburbs will finally be getting a long-awaited hotel.

Petretta Construction has acquired a twoacre parcel of land in separate transactions involving Valente Home Development and R.O.C.K. Developments, with plans to build and operate a Holiday Inn Express on property currently occupied by Tecumseh Golf. Construction of the hotel, which has long been thought of as a welcome complement to other developments in the area, such as the WFCU Centre, Atlas Tube Centre and growing local businesses, is expected to begin by June. “We believe it’s a home run,” says Jonathan Lot, Vice President of Operations for Petretta. “We

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Tecumseh will have a new Food Basics grocery store expected to be open by early summer located at the corner of Manning Road and Amy Croft Drive. Pictured is a storefront photo of an existing Food Basics location in east Windsor. Photo by Della Jones-Goulet.

had looked at other parcels along Banwell Road where it might have been cheaper to acquire and build, but we felt the Manning Road corridor better suited our needs and those of Holiday Inn.” Acquisition of the property, which will be accessed off Amy Croft Drive, was expected to close January 30.

Blake Lucas, Owner of Tecumseh Golf, informs Biz X the new development will force his business to move. “We’ve identified a potential new site that would allow us to continue with both the driving range and our retail shop,” Lucas says, mentioning, “(but) we’re waiting on some zoning issues to be resolved.” In a worst case scenario, Lucas said he would continue operating the retail store as a separate entity, on a short-term basis, if the driving range component falls through, until he finds a location for both.

“We’ve been rumoured to be out of here since 2008 so I guess this time was coming,” he adds. Lucas declined to divulge details of the new location, but said it is close to where Tecumseh Golf now operates at 1654 Manning Road. There is no timetable for the relocation.

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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Joe Comartin: More Than The Average Joe

By Joe McParland

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uring a recent gathering of friends, I asked the following question, “Can you name three of the last five Consul Generals from the Detroit office?” The responses were surprising.

One questioned what a Consulate is, while another asked if there really is one in Detroit and, if so, where it is located. Out of the six or seven respondents, only one could name Roy Norton as one of the past five Consul Generals.

Norton was recognized because of his untiring efforts in helping to secure the Gordie Howe International Bridge for this region. During his tenure as Consul General of Canada for the Detroit office, he forged many strong relationships with Michigan’s former Governor, Rick Snyder, and numerous U.S. federal and state legislators and local municipal politicians.

In October 2018, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Chrystia Freeland, appointed former New Democrat MP Joe Comartin as the new Consul General for Detroit to succeed Consul General Douglas George.

I had the opportunity of sitting down with Comartin in January to discuss his new appointment. But first, a little background on the Consulate General of Canada in Detroit (CGCD). (Refer also to: International.gc.ca/ world-monde/country-pays/united_statesetats_unis/detroit.aspx?lang=eng).

The CGCD first opened on April 1, 1948, shortly after the end of WWII, in Suite 1035 of the Penobscot Building. This was followed by a short move in 1969 to Suite 1920 in the West Tower of the First Federal Building.

And finally, in 1987, the CGCD moved to its current location in Tower 600 of the Renaissance Center. From the 11th floor

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(Suite 1100) it has a spectacular panoramic view of both Detroit and Windsor.

Consulates are “small embassies” generally providing the following services: emergency services to Canadians travelling and living abroad, promotion of trade and investment, and advocacy on behalf of Canada’s interests.

Canada operates an Embassy in Washington D.C., as well as 15 Consulate offices — and two satellite offices — in major U.S. cities. Each office is responsible for a specific geographical territory. The Detroit office services Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

The CGCD represents Canada in one of the most active regions in the United States.

Across all four states, more than 870,000 U.S. jobs are directly supported by Canadian trade and investment. Nearly 950 Canadianowned companies are investing in the region’s local communities.

Between Detroit and Windsor, nearly 7,000 commercial vehicles cross the border daily with an average of $290 million US in surface trade, each day, making this location the busiest commercial gateway between the United States and Canada.

Comartin points out that over the years, the services offered by the Detroit office have been reduced through budget cuts and staff reductions. Currently, services provided are; trade, media relations and consular service.

In the past, the office provided visa and immigration services, citizenship and regular passport service for Canadians in the U.S. For Canadians travelling in the U.S., emergency passport service is still offered as well as assistance for Canadians in trouble with U.S. law authorities.

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Consul General Joe Comartin stands along the Windsor riverfront with his Consulate office inside the Ren Cen in the background. Photo by Joe McParland.

As the 20th Consul General in Detroit, Comartin has established a couple of firsts. He is the first Detroit Consul General who is the result of a political appointment, rather than serving as a diplomatic appointment (career diplomats). He is also the first Detroit Consul General to reside in his home in Canada.

Previous diplomatic appointees to the position maintained their residence in the Detroit area.

“Shortly after the 2015 Trudeau government formed there was a conscious decision by the government to make ‘political’ appointments — that is, people who are not career diplomats — to a number of Consulates in the U.S.” says Comartin. “The reasoning was they wanted appointments of people with relatively high profiles, and secondly, profiles with significant experience in the economic sector that dominated that territory.”

Comartin’s background and career made him the perfect candidate.

He was born December 26, 1947 in Stoney Point, Ontario. He graduated from the University of Windsor in 1968 with a BA in Political Science and completed Law School in 1971. He married Maureen in 1969 and they have three children. This July, the couple celebrates their 50th wedding anniversary.

After a successful career as a civil litigator and labour lawyer for CAW/Unifor, he entered the political arena. He was elected as an MP in 2000, and re-elected in 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2011, retiring before the 2015 election.

During his time as an NDP MP, Comartin was voted three times “Most Knowledgeable Parliamentarian” by his colleagues and appointed Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons in his final years.

As he retired from politics, Comartin was offered a teaching position at the University of Windsor to teach Political Science, Ethics and Reform in Canadian Parliament. He started his third career in January 2016.

Comartin told me he was “thrilled to be teaching because of the intellectual stimulation presented by the students.”

It wasn’t too long after that the Canadian Government came knocking on his door, looking for a new Consul General in Detroit — and Comartin’s fourth career began!

In describing his new position, Comartin explains “65% to 75% of our workload is around the trading relationship between Canada and the U.S. This is particularly true in recent years because of the renegotiation of NAFTA, the imposition of tariffs by the U.S. and the countervailing by Canada.”

He continues, “We have a separate division, several staff who work exclusively on the federal relationships on the U.S. side — Senators and Members of Congress — but, we also have extensive relations that we cultivate with State Representatives, and even to a lesser degree, with some on the municipal level.”

According to Comartin, his Consulate territory of four states is perhaps the busiest and most intense in terms of trade with Canada.

All four states are home to the major auto assemblers — Toyota, Volkswagen, Subaru

Comartin in front of the Arms of Canada in the Detroit office of the Canadian Consulate. Photo courtesy of the Consulate General of Canada in Detroit.

and the Detroit Big 3. (Tying this interview in quite nicely with our February auto issue!).

Comartin says that 20% of his work involves administration and staff management, leaving 80% of his time dedicated to travelling and meeting with U.S. corporate executives and political representatives to advance Canada’s policy positions regarding trade.

When it come to areas such as human rights issues in the U.S., Comartin comments “we can inform what Canada’s position is on things like immigration, but not argue what the U.S. policy on immigration should be — pro or con. We share info with the U.S. in terms of what we do in Canada for immigration, but in no way advocate what the U.S. should do.”

This is hardest part of the learning curve Comartin faces. Throughout his life as a lawyer and politician, he has advocated for the rights of others. But now, though his instinct is to advocate, his new job requires the need for diplomacy.

No clearer example of this just played out with the General Motors’ announcement of plant closures in the U.S. and Canada (Oshawa).

On January 11, 2019, there was a massive protest by the unions, civic leaders and allies in Windsor’s Dieppe Gardens, over the Oshawa plant closure decision. This was less than two miles from the boardroom in the Renaissance

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Center where investors were gathered for meetings. In a touch of irony, GM Headquarters shares the same building as the CGCD! While Comartin’s instinct would be to strongly advocate for Oshawa and oppose the decision to close the plant, his role as Consul General requires him to exercise diplomacy.

In that exercise of diplomacy Comartin says, “I can only urge GM to commit to the future manufacturing of electric vehicles in the existing facilities that are closing. That represents Canada’s policy position on the matter.”

One of the things Comartin would like to see the CGCD tackle in the near future is a more coordinated tourism initiative between the two nations.

He mentions the office at one time was staffed by two dedicated persons for Tourism, until staff and budget cutbacks in 2012/2013. He would like funding approved for a full time Tourism staff member to work on making Michigan and southwestern Ontario a “collective destination point.” He cites Essex County’s burgeoning wine industry as one good example and great fit for sharing in Michigan’s successful “Pure Michigan” promotion.

He also sees the renaissance and rebirth of downtown Detroit working in tandem with Windsor’s ongoing efforts to redefine itself.

As this article is being written in midJanuary, the CGCD finds itself immersed in its busiest two months of the year, preparing for, and participating in, the 2019 “North American International Auto Show” at Cobo Center.

You can count on seeing our new Consul General Comartin out and about at the many meetings, receptions and corporate gatherings that will provide him the opportunity of proudly promoting Canada and its policies and interests. Keep up with where you can find Comartin on social media pages such as: Facebook.com/CanadainDetroit.

As you can tell after reading this article, Comartin is “not just your average Joe!” Congratulations on your appointment Consul General Comartin — we know you will do a great job for us!

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NEWSFLASH Canada’s automotive sector is strong and uniquely positioned to design and build the cars of today and tomorrow, and its highly skilled workforce is the driving force behind it. In mid-January, the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario, announced a combined FedDev Ontario contribution of more than $5 million to APAG Elektronik Corp. and Service Mold + Aerospace Inc. to develop and adopt innovative technologies, scale up and create good middle-class jobs APAG Elektronik Corp. (check out: APAG-Elektronik.com), which manufactures electronic control parts and LED lighting for automobiles, is receiving more than $4 million to help establish a new Windsor facility that will serve as its North American headquarters, bringing 138 new skilled jobs to the region. FedDev Ontario funding will allow the company to install state-of-the-art equipment and complete renovations to its new 32,000 square foot facility. Service Mold + Aerospace Inc. (Service-Mold.com), an integrated tool and mould manufacturer for the automotive and aerospace industries, is receiving $1.06 million to install new state-of-the-art equipment and create up to 21 jobs at its recently built 34,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Windsor. With new equipment and technology, the company can produce components as large as 54 feet by 12 feet, which makes the new

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Advocis Windsor photos by Rod Denis.

THE RUNDOWN

facility one of the largest machining centres in southern Ontario. FedDev Ontario is now accepting new projects, using a single application form, through three simplified funding streams that have been designed to meet the needs of innovators and job creators. For more information, visit: FedDevOntario.gc.ca.

Looking to branch out in a new direction Rejean Gascon — part owner of Eastwood’s Grill & Lounge (with business partner Duane Chouinard) which opened March 2018 at 63 Riverside Drive East in Windsor — has now taken over The Broken Egg and Tap at 12058 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh, as of the beginning of the year. “I’ve always worked on the dinner and late night side of the business and just decided I wanted to learn something new,” explains Gascon who operates the restaurant with his wife Lisa. “We will be open for breakfast and lunch at first, but I plan to offer a dinner menu in a few months.” The restaurant currently serves up standard breakfast items such as eggs and omelettes, as well

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as salads, wraps and burgers at lunchtime.

He plans to add patio services by late spring or early summer. Keep up to date with this Tecumseh eatery daily under “The Broken Egg” Facebook page.

Advocis Windsor held a Christmas luncheon on December 7, 2018 at Ambassador Golf Club, 1025 Sprucewood Avenue in Windsor (see two photos above). Along with plenty of great food, membership milestones were recognized such as Michellyne Mancini, (centre in the accompanying left photo), who received a certificate for her contribution as President of Advocis Windsor Board Term of 2017 – 2018. Presenters were (starting from the left): Aaron Keogh, David Nader, Tony Nader, Elias Doskoris, Helen Bennett, Carl Edwards and Gabriel MacCausland-Sirois. As well, during the luncheon, Advocis summarized all the community organizations they have helped throughout the year. These organizations include: Cystic Fibrosis Canada EssexKent Chapter, Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers and a special can drive

NEW IN BIZ After operating a successful Lebanese restaurant in Thunder Bay for 10 years, the Hatoum family has relocated to Windsor and opened Kabab Village in the former Three Amigos restaurant at 6124 Tecumseh Road East, at Jefferson Boulevard. “My parents decided to relocate to Windsor for family reasons and I followed,” explains Co-Owner Haidar Hatoum. “We’ve always operated as a family business, so it made sense to move here together.”

Hatoum is joined in the business by his parents Mahmoud and Taghrid Hatoum and aunt, Randa Hatoum. Featuring Lebanese, Mediterranean and Halal cuisine you can try popular dishes such as hummus, shawarmas, fattouch, falafel and baba ghanouj, as well as a variety of specialty dishes such as chicken doner and chicken shawarma fries. “We make it all fresh,” says Hatoum. ”There is nothing frozen. It’s all prepared the way we eat it at home.” To view their complete menu check: KababVillage.com.

A new development in Essex Centre — SouthPoint Equipment, a significant addition to the Highway 3 commercial and industrial corridor — was announced in midJanuary. The 10,000 square foot commercial space will serve the entire county and sell the full line of Kubota products serving the turf, farm, residential, commercial turf and snow, and construction sectors. The facility will initially employ eight full-time employees and eventually expand to 12, along with part-time and seasonal staff. The business has set up an interim location at 370 Allen Avenue in Essex Centre (SouthPointeq.ca/en) with the future home being at 330 South Talbot Road North. “The Highway 3 corridor is prime real estate for commercial and industrial growth, and businesses like SouthPoint are the types of anchors we are looking to attract,” says Essex Mayor Larry Snively. “These anchor businesses will bring people into our community and help to show that Essex is a great place to invest.” David Ross, SouthPoint Equipment Owner adds, “Essex is centrally located and positioned well to serve the entire county. The location, which was zoned and partially serviced, will help us balance the need to service the city of Windsor with the rural communities of Essex County. It will also give the thriving

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agricultural sector easy access to the equipment and services we will offer.”

WECAR photo courtesy of Trevor Booth.

for Windsor Goodfellows. In our second photo you can see: Tyler Lamphier and Amanda Allen (far left) of Crime Stoppers who were presented with a cheque for $12,100 from Advocis reps Christy Bacik, Helen Bennett, Tim Jones and David Nader in honour of Stacy-Ann Sappleton, a Tecumseh woman whose unsolved murder, in 2004 in New York City, is still under investigation. Advocis is the oldest and largest voluntary professional membership association of financial advisors and planners in Canada with more than 12,000 members in 40 chapters across the country, including Windsor Essex. Learn more on their website at: Advocis.ca.

What do you do for fun in Windsor Essex? Where are your favourite places to eat, drink and dine? Where do you shop in Windsor, Essex County & Pelee Island?

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island wants to know for their annual “Best Of” places to see and things to do. Nominations in eight major categories were accepted in January and voting begins February 4 to 24, 2019 at: BestOfWindsorEssex.ca. On March 28 a list of all winners will be posted on their site. Good luck to all nominees!

ON THE MOVE The Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS (WECAR), representing over 945 active members, is pleased to announce its new Board of Directors for 2019. In photo above, standing, from left are: Director Damon Winney, Broker of Record, Jump Realty Inc.; Executive Officer Krista Gionet (Del Gatto), CAE, CRAE, WindsorEssex County Association of REALTORS; Director Elica Berry, Salesperson, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; Past President Daniel Hofgartner, Broker, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd.; Director Darin Schiller, Salesperson, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty; Seated, from left: Director Maggie Chen, Broker of Record, LC Platinum Realty Inc.; President Tina Roy, Broker, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. and President-Elect Lorraine Clark, Salesperson, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty. WECAR, the second oldest Real Estate Board in Canada, has always been a leader in the industry and prides itself on its excellent record and service to its membership. Find out more details on this local association on their website: WindsorRealEstate.com.

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DATES TO REMEMBER February/Early March 2019

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TO VIEW EVEN MORE EVENTS VISIT: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND INPLAYMAGAZINE.COM AND CLICK ON THE “EVENTS” TAB!

*UNLESS NOTED 519 IS THE AREA CODE TO USE

Please be sure to confirm all events before attending.

Feb. 9: “Higgi’s Harmony in Action Birthday Bash” at Average Joes Banquet Hall, 1286 Lauzon Road, Windsor. Doors open at 5 p.m. with a pasta dinner served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. with Higgi & Dave, The Van Lares, MC Celis, Drop Dead Famous and The Rock Farm Band. Silent auction, 50/50 draw and raffles. Tickets $20 at the door. All proceeds go to Harmony in Action. 948-1921 Feb. 14: Happy “Valentine’s Day!” Take your sweetheart (kids included if you like) out for a nice meal and support a local restaurant. Don’t forget the chocolates, flowers, wine or even a little bling!

Are you ready to plunge into icy water just like a polar bear? Try it Feb. 15 for Special Olympics Ontario!

Feb. 15: Local law enforcement present the 5th annual “Polar Plunge” at St. Clair College SportsPlex, 2000 Talbot Road West in Windsor from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The “Polar Plunge” is a unique opportunity

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for individuals, organizations, and businesses to support Special Olympics Ontario athletes by jumping into icy water! Participants help Special Olympics Ontario continue to provide lifetime achievement for athletes and for the families raising a child with an intellectual disability. Your financial support will be seen on the softball fields to swimming pools and every sport in between. The cost to participate is $50. For more information email: polarplunge@police.windsor.on.ca; refer to: PolarPlunge.ca or call 255-6700.

Feb. 18: Happy “Family Day!” Feb. 21: The Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation invites you to a really cool new event, “Network & Glamp,” a fundraiser for their “Fresh Air” summer camp program. Enjoy an afternoon social from noon until 2 p.m. with gourmet delights and a glamorous indoor camping experience at Fourteen Restaurant & Sky Lounge, 100 Ouellette Avenue in downtown Windsor. Questions? Check: WECAF.on.ca. Cost to attend is $75 per person and tickets are available by calling 252-1171, ext. 3360.

Feb. 23: The “Coldest Night of the Year Walk-a-Thon” hosted by The Downtown Mission begins at 664 Victoria Avenue in Windsor at 5 p.m. This two, five or 10 km walk-a-thon is an opportunity to raise much needed financial support to continue to continue providing basic necessities, supports and hope for our hungry, homeless and hurting neighbours. This is a familyfriendly event and any walker under the

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age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

A hot light dinner is served to all walkers and volunteers at the end of the walk. Cost to participate for adults 18 and up is $25 (until Feb. 17 and afterwards $40) or you can fundraise a minimum of $150. Youth 11 to 17 can fundraise a minimum of $75 or pay the registration fee. Find more info on the website: DowntownMission.com /event/coldest-night-year-2; send an email: afshin@downtownmission.com or call 973-5573, ext. 340.

Feb. 23 & 24: The “Essex Train Show” presented by Heritage Essex takes place at the Essex Public School, 72 Brien Avenue East from 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. As the largest train show in southwestern Ontario you can find something for everyone including interactive train displays for children to actually partake in the experience. Admission: $5 adults; $4 teens/ seniors; $3 children and those under three years of age are not charged to attend. For more info email: heritageessex@bellnet.ca; view the website: EssexRailwayStation.com or call776-9800.

Feb. 28: Prepare yourselves for an evening that will uplift your spirits and inspire you to make a change in our ever-evolving world!

The Faculty of Science at the University of Windsor welcomes Dr. Roberta Bondar, a world-renowned astronaut, physician, neurologist, photographer, and all-around superwoman for its “Speaker Series” from 4 to 5 p.m. at the University of Windsor Alumni Auditorium, 401 Sunset Avenue.

Dr. Bondar’s portfolio is one many can only

College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor. The night features a gourmet dinner, awards ceremony and keynote address. Tickets are $85, doors open at 5:30 p.m. with the evening’s agenda beginning at 6:30 p.m. For tickets go to: WestOfWindsor.com/iwd; email: iwd@westofwindsor.com or call 256-6621. © Can Stock Photo/MillefloreImages

dream to accomplish! Being the first Canadian woman to go to space, and conducting 40 investigations in 13 countries with the space shuttle discovery, are only a few of the many accolades she has accomplished.

She is a true inspiration to not only young women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, but to people in all disciplines. Everyone can take something from her wisdom to improve their lives and those around them.

Students and children can attend the event for free, while adult tickets are sold for $10 each. This is an event for people of all ages and from all disciplines. For more info email: scisoc@uwindsor.ca; log on to: EventBrite.ca or call 226-347-8486.

March 1, 2 & 3: The Windsor Essex Home Builders’ Association Inc. presents the “2019 Lifestyles & Home Show of Windsor Essex” at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road, Oldcastle. Tickets are $7 for adults with children (under 16) no charge to attend. Hours are Friday: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have any questions find the answers you need online at: HomeShowWindsor.com or simply call 948-3247.

“Hats on for Healthcare Day” is set for March 5. Grab your furry hat, give your co-workers a few laughs at the office and help a charity at the same time!

March 5: “Hats on for Healthcare Day” — all businesses, organizations, schools and individuals are invited to participate in this 10th annual fundraiser in support of the Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation.

Wear your favourite hat and make a donation in support of acquiring Diagnostic Imaging Equipment for Windsor Regional Hospital. For further information see: HatsOnForHealthcare.com or give them a call at 973-4433 or 985-2656.

March 8: Plan to support the Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) “International Women’s Day Gala 2019” featuring the “Journey Towards Success Awards” at St. Clair

T IC KE T S

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$ Proudly Presents

March 8: The Ciociaro Club observes “International Women’s Day” during this 15th annual celebration in honour of all the amazing women in Windsor and Essex County. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. and features a wonderful meal, a fashion show and a chance to shop at some fabulous beauty and accessory vendors.

Tickets are $55. All proceeds benefit the Windsor Regional Hospital Breast Health Centre. For tickets call Ilde Mariani, 991-2743.

E A C H

Journey Towards Success Awards

When

Friday, March 8th, 2019 Doors Open at 5:30 pm Program Starts at 6:30 pm

Where

St. Clair College Centre for the Arts 201 Riverside Drive West Windsor, ON

For More Information – or – Order Tickets Online

DONATION CENTRES 1643 McDougall Avenue, Windsor 11145 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor 298 Lauzon Road, Windsor 3799 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor

216 Talbot Street South, Essex 2170 Front Road, LaSalle 43 Main Street West, Kingsville

www.westofwindsor.com/iwd

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

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ANNUAL AUTO SHOW REVIEW

COVER STORY

Fasten Your Seatbelts . . .

And Hang On For The Ride With Biz X’s Annual Auto Show Review

By Jason Kerluck (pictured) Photos by Rod Denis

Seatbelt sign: © Can Stock Photo/alexmillos

2020 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor . . .

Be sure to buckle up as you don’t want this SUV showing up in your rear-view mirror!

W

hat’s old is new(er) again as the automobile prepared to take another giant leap forward at this year’s “North American International Auto Show” (NAIAS).

“Don’t call it a comeback” a rather “Cool” rapper once said.

Those thoughts couldn’t help but come to mind when we viewed all the models that announced their comeback at this year’s Detroit show in mid-January.

This was the last winter for the show as next year’s NAIAS takes place in June.

But, for now, the familiar chill that was in the air wasn’t felt inside, with many hit new concepts and announcements. Plenty of names from the past were resurrected but, the future was very much present as well.

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While autonomous, or self-driving, cars are appearing on dealer lots — with Tesla’s Autopilot, Nissan’s Pro Pilot Assist, and Cadillac’s Super Cruise already available to buy — this feature appears to be poised to jump further into the mainstream.

There were a number of models, such as Nissan’s IMs (featured on the front cover of this issue) that don’t need a driver at all.

Just like some science fiction movies, such as “Total Recall,” there are signs that in the future we will no longer be owning traditional cars. Instead, we will hail selfdriving vehicles that will whisk us away to our destinations.

Of course there will be many who would still rather drive themselves. Autonomous vehicles will be hugely popular in large cities, B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

where car ownership can be pricey. Hopefully we will have a choice . . . but I’m still waiting for “Blade Runner’s” flying taxis!

Overall, it was a quieter show this year, with many brands not on the show floor this time around. Mercedes, BMW, Audi, as well as nearly every other European automaker sat this show out, with only Volkswagen making an appearance.

It may be a sign of the times, as many simply need only look online for info about their prospective dream car.

But, for those in attendance, there’s simply nothing better than seeing a car in person and sitting in the driver’s seat.

Now, buckle up and hang on tight as we speed on through the highlights of this year’s show!

The 2019 “North American Car, Utility & Truck Of The Year” Award Winners

Well let’s get the awards out of the way first. To the surprise of many, Hyundai scored wins in two of the three categories!

That’s right, the former builder of the much maligned Pony has become the one to beat.

Vehicle of the Year” is another entry from Hyundai, the smart and stylish Kona. Like ice cream, it comes in many flavours and is pretty cool to boot. And this is far from the only award the Kona has won, having racked up a few more for the trophy cabinet. Available as both gasoline-powered and pure EV (Electric Vehicle) the Kona removes any argument some may have about owning an SUV. Years ago, it was the Japanese makes that shone brightly. Is this the time for the Koreans to take that crown?

With the Chinese brands like GAC at the show, what’s clear is that we are in store for a very competitive market. But, right now in 2019, Hyundai seems to be making all the right moves.

This particular comeback was huge news, as Toyota’s former flagship has been away for over 20 years. Oddly, the brand has had some models similar to the Supra over at Lexus, but it’s been a heck of a long time since Toyota has had anything sporty.

Known now for reliable and fuel efficient cars, they used to have the MR2, Celica, and even the entry level Paseo in the ‘90s.

Then the 2000s came and Toyota walked away from them all. This new incarnation has the tight, muscular look of the fourth generation model, while appearing modern and sculpted.

The “North American Car of the Year,” the 2019 Genesis G70.

The first winner is part of Hyundai’s strategy to create a premium brand a-la Honda’s Acura or Toyota’s Lexus. Their Genesis brand came as a spinoff of the Genesis model that Hyundai sold previously.

It was felt that some buyers would be reluctant to drive a Hyundai regardless of the price, so the Genesis nameplate was born. And from that . . . uh . . . Genesis . . . comes this year’s “North American Car of the Year” winner, the Genesis G70!

It’s a handsome looking car that checks every box for luxury buyers. Some features are hard to find in cars that cost four times as much. With horsepower approaching 370, and with the agility to match, this car is a compelling option for someone looking to be coddled, as well as having a little fun.

If this car was the only winner for Hyundai, that would be impressive on its own. But wait, there’s more . . .

Earning the “North American Utility

It’s baaaaack . . . the 2019 Chevrolet Blazer.

The 2019 RAM 1500: “North American Truck of the Year.”

What isn’t a surprise is the winner of the “North American Truck of the Year” though! Try as the import brands might, America knows how to do trucks right.

This year, RAM gets the nod for its 1500 truck. The RAM 1500 has always kind of done its own thing, such as having coil shocks versus leaf springs, and was one of the first trucks to make a bold styling statement back in the mid ’90s.

RAM has been careful to keep the truck on the leading edge, while staying clever and practical. It coddles you with luxury, while being able to tough it out at the construction site. This blend of style and substance has been a part of the winning formula that makes RAM such a potent competitor.

2020 Toyota Supra — Toyota’s Flagship Supercar Storms Back From A 20 year Hiatus

2019 Chevrolet Blazer — The ‘90s Favourite Small SUV Returns In Bold Style

I always had a soft spot for the Chevrolet Blazer. It is sporty, practical, and sharp looking. It was a popular choice for those looking for a truck-like vehicle without the massive footprint.

Based on the S-10 small pickup, sadly it was never really updated, and died with some very old bones alongside the S-10.

This new Blazer is clearly not based on that old S-10 platform, instead its bones are from the GMC Acadia.

Having said that, GM made a similar move to Ford’s, cutting most of its cars from the line-up. So it makes this one of a number of crossovers to be sold by the bowtie bunch.

It will be interesting to see how the blazer will stand apart from the Equinox, the Traverse, and the rest of GM’s small to medium crossovers.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator gives rise to the feeling of flight and a sensation that both soothes and excites.

The 2019 Hyundai Kona: “North American Utility Vehicle of the Year.”

The 2020 Toyota Supra makes a comeback.

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2020 Lincoln Aviator — The Navigator’s Little Brother Takes Flight Again After Being Gone For Over 10 Years Back in the early 2000s, Lincoln

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ANNUAL AUTO SHOW REVIEW dressed up the Explorer and tried to sell it as the Aviator. It sold modestly, always in the shadow of its bigger brother, the Navigator.

Now don’t get me wrong, I liked the Aviator a lot. The Navigator was always a bit too much for me. Like showing up to a dinner party in a suede purple suit with a feather-capped fedora and lots of gold chains. It made a statement on the roads, that’s for sure! It hollered “Look at ME!” To me, the Aviator was more like showing up in a fitted sports jacket and some sharp shoes.

Having also recently won the Detroit News “Readers’ Choice” Award, this new Aviator fills a similar role in the Lincoln line up. Still based on the Explorer (the next-gen one that is), it’s far less obviously so than the previous generation.

Also interesting to note is that it would be more accurate to say new to North America, as this Ranger has been sold for the past several years overseas. Thoroughly modern inside and out, it’s still as capable as it is handsome.

Similar to the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, it’s not as small as the former Ranger, being about fourth-fifths the size of the big trucks. Like the F-150, the Ranger will come in many variations and options are plentiful.

You won’t be able to option the engine though. At least to start, you get a choice of an EcoBoost 2.3L four cylinder mated to an 8 speed automatic and that’s it.

It’s likely that more engine choices will come later, but it doesn’t seem to affect its generous towing capacity of 7,500 pounds!

It’s doubtful that it’ll have the same raw spirit and the target audience of the two hatches may not find a midsize crossover to scratch that “Boy Racer” itch.

Regardless, it was inevitable. We may never again see traditional cars from Ford, as they stick with high profit Crossovers and trucks and explore autonomous vehicles.

We are definitely on the “edge” of a change in the industry.

2020 Ford Explorer Interceptor — What’s Next For Police Services After The Taurus Gets The Axe

Another footnote to the Ford announcement that it was ceasing production of most its cars was the question of “What would it supply to police fleets that used the Taurus Interceptor?” The answer is here with the next-gen Explorer Police Interceptor (see photo on page 18) . . . and it’s a hybrid!

Ford is also moving to a rear wheel drive powertrain, as well as offering all-wheel drive. Make sure those seat belts are buckled, because you don’t want this SUV showing up in your rear-view mirror!

2019 Volkswagen Passat — Is This Germany’s Take On The Honda Accord?

The 2019 Ford Ranger Lariat Supercab is another comeback.

2019 Ford Ranger — The Smaller Ford Pickup Makes Its Return To Showrooms

With Ford’s bombshell announcement that it’s killing off all of its cars except for the Mustang (plus the new Ford Focus Active set to debut next year) and trucks, Crossovers, SUV vehicles, many wondered what would fill the void left behind.

The new EcoSport is likely an example of the type of vehicle that we will see more from the Blue Oval. But, it’s the return of the Ranger nameplate that has some Ford fans jumping for joy.

Mind you, this new Ranger is nothing like the simple and reliable old model.

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The 2020 Ford Edge ST is a game changer.

2019 Ford Edge ST — Ford’s Performance Trim Level Finds A Home After Its Cars Are Cut

As mentioned previously, when Ford announced the automaker was no longer making certain cars, people wept over the loss of the brilliant and potent Focus ST and Fiesta ST. Was this the end of the ST moniker, or would another platform carry it forward?

We found our answer in the form of the 2019 Edge ST. It has the same sharp and racy upgraded looks as the Focus and Fiesta; but does it have the rip-snorting power, or the razor sharp handling of those two cars?

It’ll certainly be different, simply given the difference in what these vehicles are.

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The 2019 Volkswagen Passat is a reborn classic.

The Volkswagen Passat has always been a great car that never hit it off with consumers the way the Golf and Jetta did. It has lived its life well behind the competition, with Honda and Toyota owning the midsize car market.

Volkswagen has made some very good claims in the past to become the world’s second largest automaker. This goal was set back by the now infamous “DieselGate” fiasco. But, slowly and surely, they are making up lost ground.

This new Passat has quite a different look to previous Volkswagen models, looking more like an American market Honda Accord than something from Germany. Will it be enough to get them back in the game?

Perhaps, especially given that the Big 3 have all but abandoned the market, leaving it to the Asian automakers.

2020 Jeep Gladiator — A Refreshed Model Gets The Pickup Treatment Once upon a time, Jeep sold a pickup truck based on its long running Wrangler. It has been many moons since those days, but with the launch of the all new Wrangler last year, many were pleasantly surprised to see the Gladiator get the green light.

It’s no full-size pickup though, being more similar in spirit to the Hummer HUT of the previous decade.

The new Jeep is really quite good, and not the cold, noisy monster it once was, so it’ll be interesting to see what this will be like on the road. It certainly should appeal to active millennials looking to keep the Jeep look, but needing the room a bed offers.

GMC upped the trick tailgate game with their origami-style, folding tailgate step in their Sierra line of trucks. This makes Ford’s tailgate step look positively primitive in comparison. It can even be equipped with speakers to jam some tunes on the job site or at a tailgate party. While not enough to grab “North American Truck of the Year,” it’s still an impressive display of innovation and creativity from GM.

2019 GMC Sierra — To Some It’s A Tailgate, To Others It’s A Work Of Art Presenting the 2020 Kia Telluride, their first full size SUV.

2020 Kia Telluride — Proof That Big SUVs Are Not Just An American Thing

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator truck returns with a vengence.

The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali gets the tailgate party started.

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Another shot just flew across North America’s full-size SUV bow, with the Koreans taking aim. Thankfully it wasn’t from the north, but rather from Hyundai subsidiary Kia. The Telluride is a large and capable

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ANNUAL AUTO SHOW REVIEW SUV that is quite a long way from the car-based offerings so far. This SUV has Yukon/Suburban size with better handling and economy. But, it’s also purported to be capable off the beaten path, as their on-site test track dared attendees to try it out. Its handsome looks and family size should make it an appealing alternative to the large SUV shopper.

Nissan IMs Concept (also see front cover of this issue).

2020 Nissan IMs Concept — Is This The Future Of The Automobile?

Featured on our front cover; who doesn’t love a slightly over-the-top concept? But, Nissan has been quietly and subtly echoing Tesla for a while now.

With a EV in the line-up for quite some time, and ProPilot Assist offering hands-free driving, the IMs takes their challenge to Tesla out in the open.

Gorgeous, sleek, and brimming with modern tech this concept shows us the future of the car. Of course it features rear opening “suicide doors” that is a cliché for concepts, but the interior is what everyone is talking about. With no transmission tunnel, roomy cabin and retractable steering wheel, this is a car you can drive or be driven in.

Isn’t the future going to be exciting!

Taking A Drive With DENSO

Finally, we had a chance to sit down with the second largest auto company on the planet. Any idea who that could be? I bet you won’t guess it — unless you guessed DENSO — then you’d be right!

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Bill Foy, Senior VP of Engineering for DENSO International America, Inc. poses for a shot at their booth during press day, January 14, 2019, in Detroit.

Now, you may have never heard of DENSO, but you’ve likely come in contact with something they had a hand in developing.

Initially they were the parts manufacturing division of Toyota. Spun off as its own entity quite some time ago, they are no longer exclusively Toyota suppliers.

Senior Vice President of Engineering for DENSO International America, Inc., Bill Foy, was kind enough to sit down and chat with us at the DENSO exhibition during press days.

According to Foy, DENSO builds design and build components that are found throughout a vehicle. With many automakers outsourcing design and development of components, DENSO has the ability to fulfil the automakers needs while preserving each manufacturer’s identity.

They focus on four core facets of the automotive parts industry.

First up are the hardware/software components, which range from engine parts to electronic control units and the software on them. Next is thermal, which covers engine cooling, as well as cabin climate

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controls. However, it also covers battery thermal controls, which are required for electric vehicles (EVs), as the batteries in EVs need to be kept at a specific temperature.

The third facet, propulsion, deals with powertrain and drivetrain components.

Lastly is the category most of us see and interact with — mobility and electronics.

This includes display, as well as all the little motors that move your seats and mirrors.

When asked if DENSO would ever consider making cars of its own, given that it builds so many parts, Foy replies “Absolutely we will stay a supplier. What’s going to change is who our customers are, and how we relate to those customers.”

He continues by stating, “When you move into shared mobility, fleet owners become very important since we don’t work with fleet owners right now.”

What Foy is referring to is the idea that car ownership will become a thing of the past, and people will own or rent a pod-like car body, and summon a chassis to pick you up and drive you autonomously to your destination.

DENSO is working is this area, with a focus on autonomous driving and electrification, as well as connectivity. While you won’t be able to drive a DENSO, you’ll likely be driving (or not driving) a vehicle with DENSO DNA in it.

The Point Of No Return

And that really may be the big take away from this year’s show.

While this was the year of the comeback, oddly enough, it’s also the year the car as we know it may begin to disappear. What we will be getting around in 10 years from now may be just as much different as cars from the ‘80s were to cars that came before them.

Yet, I’m sure some folks won’t give up the steering wheel until it’s pried from their (as Charlton Heston put it) “cold, dead hands!”

We are past the point of no return and drive off to where travel is safer, cleaner, and far better for the planet . . . if not, maybe a bit less fun. Only time can tell.

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TECH BY TES

EDITOR’S NOTE: *Tech Bytes is a new Biz X column, featuring experts from WEtech Alliance and the community talking about the latest tech news, apps, gadgets, tech entrepreneurs, regional innovation trends, and more in each issue.

A Journey: From Motor City To Mobility City

By Ed Dawson The Windsor Essex region is the “Automotive Capital of Canada.” This storied history has allowed our region to produce some amazing products that we see driving all around us.

With the largest cluster of tool, die, and mould makers in North America, we have talent and expertise that can build anything for both the auto sector and beyond!

We can proudly say we are a region of “Makers” and “Innovators” who know how to get things done.

As technology progresses and consumer preferences evolve, so does the very nature of all the products we enjoy, including automobiles. There is a shift taking place linked to the future of mobility.

Connected and Autonomous Vehicle (CAV) technologies is one of the mobility technologies that has received much attention because of its potential to revolutionize the automotive industry and society.

Consequently, there is a logical need to

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prepare for the evolution of transportation in our region and beyond. Just take a look across the Detroit River.

We, too, have started our journey towards being a mobility-focused region. We were selected as a Regional Technology Development Site (RTDS) through the Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network (AVIN) to help spur the advancement of CAV technologies in Ontario.

Our efforts will focus on establishing a Virtual Reality Lab that will be located within the facilities of the Institute for Border Logistics and Security to help test and develop CAV technologies. We will use the Lab to partner with the University of Windsor, St. Clair College and other innovators, within our region and elsewhere, to help bring mobility innovations to market.

As a region, we are working to build an ecosystem that supports this fast-evolving mobility space.

On November 2, 2018, the WindsorEssex

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Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC) and WEtech Alliance hosted the region’s first-ever “Tech Mobility Day.” And in January, WE EDC, WEtech Alliance partnered with the University of Windsor and St. Clair College to exhibit at “Automobili-D” as part of the 2019 “North American International Auto Show” (more information on page 5). It was a great venue to promote our regional strengths and assets and demonstrate to companies working in the mobility space that the Windsor Essex region is a smart choice.

The future of mobility in Windsor Essex is bright. Let’s take this journey together!

Ed Dawson is the first-ever Mobility Analyst for the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation. Prior to starting this role in August of 2018, he was a Business Attraction Specialist with WE EDC working on a number of high profile attraction files and promoting our region as a great location to invest and live. He will continue doing this in this new role with a focus on companies in the Mobility space. Dawson received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Windsor and, fitting for the role, he is a vehicle enthusiast.

TAKE THE LEAD

Leading In The Theatre And Movie Industry

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

I

was honoured to attend a private party at Director, Producer and Writer, Ziad Hamzeh’s home in Boston last year.

My son, Christian Vegh was asked to work with him on the music and scoring of one of his films, when he graduates from Berklee College of Music in May, an incredible honour for a young musician/songwriter.

Hamzeh has earned over 40 awards and honours for his work in the film industry and is a true leader in his field. I thought I would take this opportunity to interview him and get some advice for our local emerging film artists.

How did Hamzeh move from an actual Roman Palace in Syria to Los Angeles, CA and then relocate to Boston, Massachusetts?

Hamzeh immigrated to the United States and completed a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts Directing and Acting in Boston, then a Master of Arts in Writing and Criticism and finally a Master of Fine Arts in Directing, both from California State University.

He started out as an actor and went on to create two theatre companies in Los Angeles, The Open Fist Theatre Company and The Egyptian Arena. He has directed and or produced over 60 stage productions; is a member of the Producers Guild of America and currently teaches directing at Emerson College and Lesley University.

You may be familiar with some of Hamzeh’s work, as an acting coach for “True Lies” and as an actor and producer in “Always Brando” (premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival and “Best Picture Award” Alexandria Film Festival). He was producer of “The Flower of Aleppo” 2017 in Tunisia, which was nominated for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award.

He was Director and Producer of “Irrefutable Proof,” which swept the awards, winning the “Golden Palm Award,” “Best Actress” and “Best Cinematography” at the Beverly Hills Film Festival. This film is about an Astrophysicist who had a severe car crash on her way to deliver a lecture to disprove the existence of God. His most recent work, just released in 2018, is as Director of “Sushi Tushi” (a football comedy) and as Executive Producer for “Dreams I Never Had” starring Malcolm McDowell.

When I asked Hamzeh what was next, he told me about three projects he’s working on.

He explains, “It’s important to have multiple projects in case something comes up with location, funding, actors, delays, or you are waiting for the green light on movies. Multiple projects keep you moving forward.”

Currently, he is working on films in Tunisia, Syria and New York.

When I enquired if he had any mentors in the industry and why he still teaches, Hamzeh replies, “Although I never really had the privilege of having a mentor in my career, I have been able to mentor hundreds, if not thousands, of students and up and coming professionals, through teaching.”

He continues by stating, “Teaching feeds me, I become a part of their success. I feel like I have children all over the world doing projects and I feel like a proud parent.”

Hamzeh notes that one of his students just received an “Academy Award” and he felt like he has contributed to their success and celebrated all their achievements.

When you ask Hamzeh what has contributed to his success in winning over 40 awards, he humbly replies, “We don’t work to get awards, we work to touch the spirit of human beings, to share stories and to contribute to a better world.”

He does say that his success can be attributed to preparation and the treatment of people involved in his work.

As the saying goes the “devil is in the details” and Hamzeh feels that those who skip or rush through the pre-production stage are doomed to fail. He spends six to eight weeks for production and at least four to six months for pre-production, which involves breaking down the script, filming locations and preparing the crew. By going over every detail in preparation he ensures the success of the film.

Hamzeh believes, “It’s important to treat every single member of my team with the utmost respect and love, especially someone new to the industry. There should be no yelling on the set. By empowering and nurturing others, you will ensure that people want to work with you.”

He shares some insight on how the film industry has changed and evolved since he has been working in it.

“The biggest change is that with the use B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Ziad Hamzeh with Biz X’s Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh at his home in 2018.

of technology, you no longer have to live in California to work in this industry,” he comments. “I can send samples for revisions, and use Skype for meetings, video auditions or location previews. Now, I only have to travel for actual directing, awards ceremonies and film festivals.”

Hamzeh adds, “This is so much better for your family life. I don’t miss the crazy pace of being in LA, only the people. I am fortunate because of my work to have friends all over the world.”

He informs us that all films are about relationships and there are only three basic elements of all movies – love, hate, and revenge.

“Filmmaking is story-telling to its core,” Hamzeh reveals. “I use real life experiences and events to try and penetrate the human spirit. The audiences watch the characters and lose themselves in the process, making me the invisible conductor holding the emotional strings of the story.”

Hamzeh is considered a “filmmaker activist as reflected in his powerful documentaries.” He chooses stories with subject matter that he finds deeply moving.

An example of this is the documentary, “The Letter: An American Town And The Somali Invasion,” which is not only relevant and courageous, but also gives a voice to issues that impact our world.

Hamzeh’s philosophy transcends to all arts as he divulges, “A work of art is the result of someone physically making passion visible. It is a physical manifestation of the artist’s inner creative being shared with the world.”

Find out even more about Ziad Hamzeh on the website: HmFilms.net.

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is the Director of Leadership Windsor/Essex at United Way. She is a former Principal, Chief Communications Officer and business owner with over 30 years of experience in education, administration, mentoring, consulting and community leadership.

If you know a leader in the community for this column, email: Sherrilynn@BizXmagazine.com.

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portfolio corner

I Remember 1987

By Steven Mayo

Late last year, with headlines such as “The worst December in 10 years,” it’s not surprising that investors were getting spooked and running for cover.

I can say with great conviction that the quick market drop was from a variety of factors, but not likely a reflection of the health of the economy. This is why it feels like October 1987 to me, when there was also a quick market correction.

I remember it well. I was in Toronto, it was my third year in the business, and the world stock markets went into a very short-lived 20%+ correction. Even then it seemed too much and it ended up that all the economic data that came out over the next six months was not as bad, definitely not recessionary, and the markets were back on track.

The most important lesson I learned was the stock market and the economy are often two different animals, and on two different time frames. The stock market looks forward, trying to factor in daily news, corporate fundamentals,

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and growth expectations, whereas economic data is only a reflection of what has happened in the past. The nasty correction this past December occurred when economic indicators such as employment were strong, not flashing red, so something else was clearly going on.

Unfortunately, what happened had much to do with computer generated algorithmic selling for 12 straight days (selling created more electronic selling as support prices were breached). An entire article could be written about computer generated trading, which pushes markets higher and lower than they might otherwise be. There were also some year-end portfolio adjustments.

Today’s reality, unlike 1987, is that hitting a sell button is much easier, and very short-term in nature, with no regard for the underlying strength of a particular company or sector.

Add to this that large institutions, hedge funds, ETFs, or mutual funds with large positions, may require liquidity at the same time, only magnifying the selling pressure into the market. The politics of the day: trade,

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tariffs, Trump, China etc. will one day be less annoying. However, it’s during these extreme times of pessimism that you get your best buys.

When I reflect on 1987, interest rates were much higher than today. Money will flow back to solid dividend paying companies in our relatively low interest rate environment. Accept that volatility is the new normal, but be ready to pounce when good companies are “On Sale.”

In many previous articles I’ve stressed the importance of cash, and consider it an “Asset Class.” As it turns out, it was the best performing asset class in 2018. This only happens about every 10 years. As I write in early January, going into 2019 I believe we have an investment environment where true investors can flourish.

Let’s wrap up with a few 1987 facts. . .

• #1 song: “Faith” by George Michael • Ronald Reagan was the U.S. President • Brian Mulroney was our Prime Minister • TIME magazine “Man of the Year”: Mikhail Gorbachev • Sporting Champions – Super Bowl: NY Giants; Stanley Cup: Edmonton Oilers; World Series: Minnesota Twins.

Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Director, and Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

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PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN Story And Photo By Rebecca Wright

KATHERINE POSSAMAI

Has The Massage Therapy World At Her Feet (and her hands too)

W

hile most massages tend to be given by therapists who use their hands to provide relief and relaxation, a local business owner is leading a team who specialize in using their feet.

Katherine Possamai graduated with many other Registered Massage Therapists so she knew she had to learn something different to stand out. This led her to Ashiatsu, a type of deep tissue massage that her business, Parkway Massage Therapy, specializes in.

“Ashiatsu is a barefoot massage technique in which the therapist uses gravitational forces and distributes their body weight, using their feet to apply deep, gentle and painless compression and long gliding strokes over the client’s body,” describes Possamai.

The therapist positions him/herself by holding onto bars attached to the ceiling while he/she uses his/her feet to massage the client.

Three years ago, Possamai took over Parkway Massage Therapy, located at Suite 207, 2825 Lauzon Parkway in Windsor and online at: MassageIsMedicine.ca. Nine Registered Massage Therapists work out of the clinic daily with deep tissue work their most popular treatment.

“The pressure from the massage delivered by feet is deeper, yet less painful than a therapist using a thumb or an elbow,” she points out. “And with slow movement, Ashiatsu treatment provides you deep relaxation.”

Ashiatsu is also excellent for relieving chronic back pain, loosening adhered tissues and tight muscles, and stimulating the body’s own self-healing capabilities.

Possamai is Owner and Operator of Parkway Massage Therapy, as well as a Registered Massage Therapist and Ashiatsu Overhead Bar Therapist.

She says customizing treatments is a feature of her business.

“Mixing the perfect blend of therapeutic massages is not only an art, but comes with experience, dedication and commitment,” she explains. “Our team of Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are hand-picked professionals and skilled in a broad variety of techniques.”

Possamai informs Biz X that at Parkway Massage, they don’t have one specific “typical client,” so to speak, because they range in sizes, ages and ethnic backgrounds — each one having different issues.

While Katherine Possamai and her team may specialize in Ashiatsu, a barefoot massage technique, they also offer traditional massages like Swedish, Hot Stone, Deep Tissue and more.

“The one thing they may all have in common is they are looking for alternative ways for optimal health and not relying on pain medications,” asserts Possamai.

Along with Ashiatsu, their facial massages are also very popular, which she believes are “the ultimate in relaxation and restoring your skin to a glowing healthier you.”

She continues by stating, “Our product is an all-organic and natural product line that will cleanse, tone, and exfoliate the skin, while also protecting, nourishing, replenishing and balancing, defying aging, and stimulating regeneration. This treatment blends the beauty of nature, the power of science and technology and the expertise of highly trained and skilled hands.”

This is Possamai’s second career. She explains that in 2009 — like so many others — she found herself jobless, so she wanted a brand new start.

“I wanted to pick something that I could use to help others and yet had the freedom of being my own boss,” Possamai recalls.

“Massage just seemed natural and I fell in love with it the first day of school.”

There are tremendous benefits that can be achieved through regular massage therapy treatments from a RMT, she notes.

According to Possamai, massage B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

therapy can be an important part of your health maintenance plan by: reducing or eliminating pain, improving joint mobility improving circulation, improving lymphatic drainage and reducing muscular tension.

As a business owner, she stresses that it’s important to balance your personal life with your business life.

She admits that at times she allows them to spill into each other in her life, and thus, she feels like she has two families.

“My husband is always supportive in what I do, he keeps me grounded and helps me remember I need time for myself,” she says adding, “Those I work with make work fun, and having a great Office Manager in Catherine Visser, always keeps me focused on just my clients during the busier days.”

Possamai wants everyone who walks through their doors to have a sense of home and safety, and that no matter which Therapist they see, they experience a higher standard of treatment and muscle recovery.

“Step away from your ordinary pain management and try something different,” she suggests hoping that people try all the alternatives to pain and stress management, such as Reiki, meditation, massage, cupping, Ashiatsu, reflexology, chiropractic, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and more. “Let Parkway Massage Therapy be a part of your journey to a better feeling you.”

XX FILES

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The 2018 “Appreciation Luncheon” For The WindsorEssex County Association Of REALTORS (WECAR)

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT December 20, 2018 at Beach Grove Golf & Country Club, 14134 Riverside Drive East, Tecumseh. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. WECAR closed out the year in style with a special luncheon to honour their 100 year anniversary, along with an opportunity to appreciate Windsor Essex real estate professionals in the community who are long term WECAR Members. Other various awards and fundraising initiatives were also on the agenda, including this cheque presentation for $31,000 to the Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation by Daniel Hofgartner, Broker, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd., WECAR Past President; Krista Gionet (Del Gatto), CAE, CRAE, Executive Officer WECAR and Tina Roy, (far right) WECAR President and Broker, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. accepted by Ron Foster, Executive Director, Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation.

2. The Retiring Directors of 2016 to 2018 were Kimberly Gazo, Deerbrook Realty Inc. and Jeewen Gill, National Realty Exchange Corp.

The following photos feature WECAR members who were formally recognized at the luncheon with either a plaque or a framed Certificate of Membership for their years of service to the real estate profession.

3. 25 YEARS: Bob Merrifield, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; Joe Saman, Century 21 Request Realty Inc.; Lynn Mckenzie, Key Solutions Realty Ltd.; Ed Regehr, Realty House Sun Parlour Inc.; Peter Valente, Remo

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2 Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited and Carl Gibb, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. 4. 30 YEARS: Joe Gibson, Sun County Realty Inc.; Brian Armstrong, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate; John Sapardanis, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; Tim

T SHOTS

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McDonald, Bob Pedler Real Estate Limited and Bill Pignanelli, Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited.

5. 30 YEARS: Mar Chapman, Deerbrook Realty Inc.; Lorraine Clark, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty and WECAR PresidentElect; Nancy Flagler-Wilburn, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; Joanne Pinch, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate and Nancy Vitella, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. 6. 30 YEARS: Mary Hrovat, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. 7. 35 YEARS: Robert Mathers, Distinctive Homes & Real Estate Ltd.; John Kowalski, Ren Cen Real Estate Limited pose with Mario Demarco, Deerbrook Realty Inc. (a 35 year recipient from 2017 who was unable to previously attend the luncheon).

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HOT SHOTS (continue from previous page)

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10 8. 40 YEARS: Jerome St. Louis, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate; James Lengyel, Deerbrook Realty Inc.; Arvind Sharda, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; Conrad Babkirk, Realty House Sun Parlour Inc.; Patricia Agnew, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd.; Glen Muir, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; David Pedler, Bob Pedler Real Estate Limited; Mike Tomek, Michael Tomek Realty Limited and Jim Whitfield, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd. 9. 45 YEARS: Jeff Taylor, Century 21 Request Realty Inc.; Don Routliffe, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd.; Ida Sproule, Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited; Ed Gorski, E. S. Gorski Realty Ltd. and Pat Cervini, Pat Cervini Real Estate Ltd.

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10. 50 YEARS: Tom Arbour, Tom Arbour Brokerage and Lawrence Cote, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. Congratulations to all REALTORS from Biz X magazine!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

Funny How A Failed Furnace Let’s You Feel The Heat

By Dave Halliday

O

kay, quick! How old is the heating and cooling system in your home? Do you remember the last time that it was serviced?

Can you tell me the name brand of the unit?

I’m guessing there is more than one of you reading this that couldn’t effectively answer the questions that were just posed.

Recently, you found yourself trudging down the stairs into your basement to figure out why the heat wasn’t working. You checked all of the usual things such as flipping the on/off switch several times and staring knowingly at the thermostat as it displayed the correct number . . . however, still no heat.

It was pretty cold outside at -10C and the wife was only too happy to sound off that the interior temperature was plummeting as well.

She had been telling you the unit was acting up, but you had put off looking at it and now it is definitely beyond your technical abilities — another point that she was only too happy to highlight for you!

You need help and you need it quick! The furnace may be out of order, but you are definitely feeling the heat from the wife to get it fixed properly and without delay. Luckily for you, we at Biz X were able to discuss the situation with the knowledgeable folks over at Harris Heating & Air Conditioning Services Inc. (HarrisHeating.net).

Located at 6555 Malden Road Unit #9 in LaSalle, the company has been installing and servicing heating and cooling systems for the residents of Windsor and Essex County, for the past 10 years. Company President Craig Harris was kind enough to share his 23 years of experience with us.

Let’s start with the question that would have benefited you the most. How often should one have their heating and cooling

You won’t feel like you’re being left out in the cold if your furnace goes kaput this winter with Harris Heating & Air Conditioning Services Inc. When it comes to furnace installations and furnace repairs, the Harris service technicians are knowledgeable and highly trained experts with vast HVAC and furnace experience. © Can Stock Photo/monkeybusiness

system inspected by a professional?

“Residential furnaces and air conditioners should be checked every year,” suggests Harris, noting, “We offer a Protection Plan that includes two scheduled visits, one in the spring and another in the fall. To maintain warranty requirements many manufacturers insist that annual maintenance must be done.”

What are the benefits of discovering and repairing a problem in a scheduled maintenance call, rather than waiting for there to be an issue? “Your furnace and air conditioner’s internal components work as a system,” indicates Harris. “When one part of the system is not working correctly, other components, eventually, are also affected.

These issues are usually discovered during routine maintenance, consequently preventing home owners from incurring costly repairs.”

What are some of the things a consumer can watch for that may be an indication of an issue? “If the system is not keeping up to the temperature set on the thermostat that’s when you should call for service,” he advises

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and points out that “If your furnace has a metal chimney it is extremely low efficiency.

Today’s furnaces are much more efficient than a furnace manufactured 10 years ago.”

Will a new professionally installed high efficiency furnace save the home owner money? If so, how? “Today’s furnaces come equipped with ECM (Electronically Commutated Motors) which can save a home owner as much as $300 annually on electrical savings alone,” Harris replies. “Efficiency ratings have also improved on the gas side.”

Are there secondary options that can be incorporated into a retrofit situation to make the furnace even more efficient?

“Today our furnaces have smart thermostats, which can be controlled from your smart phone/smart home gadgets,” Harris informs us. “These thermostats not only improve efficiency, they will also send you an alert if there is a problem.”

What are the potential pitfalls and disadvantages of running an older heating or cooling system? “Reliability and costly repairs . . . a furnace and air conditioning system older than 15 years should definitely be considered for replacement,” stresses Harris, cautioning, “It’s not only because of expensive repairs, it can be a safety issue. You run the risk of potential carbon monoxide poisoning if the heat exchanger fails.”

Well, your new furnace is operating perfectly and you have sworn to the wife you will ensure all required maintenance is carried out as specified in the owner’s manual.

The installer offered to send you reminders, but you have a feeling the wife will be on top of you in that regard.

You know it’s funny how much she cooled down as the heat in the house was rising!

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AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

The Windsor Essex Home Builders’ Association Inc.’s “Golden Hammer” Awards Photos by Rod Denis

After being on hiatus for the past few years, the Windsor Essex Home Builders’ Association Inc. (WEHBA) brought back its “Golden Hammer” Awards and held a gala at Caesars Windsor on the last day of November 2018.

These awards are given to outstanding builders and suppliers in the Windsor and Essex County area who practice innovative design, superior quality and environmentally responsible products.

The association’s motto is “Good People Doing Good Things In Our Industry & Our Community.”

Learn more about the WEHBA and how you can become a member by logging on to the website: WindsorEssexHomeBuilders.ca.

1 1. Posing for a quick shot we caught the “Golden Hammer” Awards committee, Presidents and VIPs, past and present — Joe Rauti, President of J. Rauti Custom Homes Ltd.; Albert Schepers, President of GS Engineering Consultants; Ezio Tartaro, Gintar Homes; Norbert Bolger, President of Nor-Built; Mike Dinchik, Past Executive Officer of WEHBA; Kierstyn Pare, WEHBA Executive Officer; Gina Mancini, Union Gas; Ben Klundert, President of BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd.; Brent Klundert, WEHBA Vice President and Vice President of BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd and Ryan Lane, WEHBA President and President of Cutting Edge Insulation — who were all pleased with the success of the evening.

3. Ads featuring the legs of lovely ladies earned Owen Flooring the “Best Marketing Ad Campaign” Award.

On hand to receive their award that evening were: Darren Johnston, Project Manager; Gord Campbell, Project Manager; Tobie Tielemans, Communications Coordinator; Charlotte Wilcox, Interior Designer; Stephanie Owen and Kevin Owen, Team Leader.

2 2. The “Sub-Contractor Of The Year” Award went to Cutting Edge Insulation accepted by: Kenny White, Vice President of the Foam Division; Ryan Lane, President; Chris Holland, Vice President of the Batt Division and Candise Vanderklis, Secretary/Treasurer.

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4 4. Drew Coulson, President of Coulson Design Build Inc. was a double winner with the “Most Outstanding Home Renovation Award Over $120,000” and the “Most Outstanding Custom Built Home Up To 1,800 sq. ft.”

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5. William Holsappel, Plant Manager of Windmill Cabinet Shop, took home the “Most Outstanding New Or Renovated Bath” Award.

6. Frank Cremasco, Owner of Frank Cremasco Fine Cabinetry was the recipient of the “Most Outstanding New Or Renovated Kitchen Up To $30,000” Award.

7. Three’s company for the team at Timberland Homes, who now can display three more awards at the office! The company was represented by Teresa Neusch of RE/MAX Preferred Realty Inc. Brokerage, who accepted Timberland’s awards for: the “Most Outstanding MultiUnit Home Above 1,500 sq. ft.”; the “Most Outstanding Custom Built Home Between 1,800 and 3,200 sq. ft.” and the “Most Outstanding Custom Built Home Above 3,200 sq. ft.”

8. The “Supplier Of The Year” Award went to Kevin Kimball, Vice President and Judy Kimball, President of Kimball Building Supplies Centre.

7

See more “Golden Hammer” Award recipients on the next page . . .

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

8

33

Awards Spotlight (continues from previous page)

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11 11. Helen Dupuis (representing her husband, Wayne Dupuis, Owner of Wayne’s Custom Woodcraft) and Domenic De Vito, Kitchen Designer, attended the event to accept their award for the “Most Outstanding New or Renovated Kitchen Above $30,000.”

34

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOR THOUGHT U

nder the umbrella of The City Market on Walker Road in Windsor, a deli-style sandwich shop opened in December of 2018.

The Hoagie Market is the place you want to go for huge, stacked meat and cheese sandwiches, burgers, Poutine and of course, fresh cut fries. Lunch and breakfast fare are also available.

Here you can find more than enough comfort food to go around with hefty portions across the menu.

According to Rick Wilkinson, Owner and Operator, “My background includes 11 years of experience in culinary and catering activities. I’m also a Red Seal Culinary Chef.”

The Hoagie Market is a counter service in the heart of The City Market with seating for 24. Carry-out is the main focus here and you can order online, directly on the website: HoagieMarket.com. Delivery is provided by Skip the Dishes, a city-wide service.

The Philly Beef and Swiss offers authentic ingredients including the beef, Swiss, peppers and onions, surrounded by The Market’s finest hoagie.

Photo by David Clark.

Another quick and easy way to enjoy one of these tasty sandwiches is to try “The Hoagie Express” for easy and fast pickup.

You can access this via their website above. However, not all menu items are available on The Express, the selections are

The Hoagie Market, 1030 Walker Road, Windsor, ON

By David Clark specifically cold sandwiches and related items.

The Chicken Club and the Ham & Swiss Hoagies are top selections with the Express.

“With two hours notice, we will prepare your order and keep it cool and fresh for your arrival,” explains Wilkinson.

The most popular menu items at The Market include the Cuban (slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss, dill pickles, and Dijon); the Philly Beef and Swiss (beef, peppers, onions, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, and pickles) and the Chicken Club (chicken, bacon, Swiss, lettuce, onion, tomatoes, and pickles). Are you hungry yet?

Wilkinson adds, “Our loaded Poutine is a favourite, about a pound of fries with cheese curds and gravy goes into it.”

Another great suggestion is the BLT on brioche consisting of four bacon strips, lettuce and tomato.

“We offer healthy food choices including salad and fresh fruit to go along with your sandwich,” says Wilkinson.

The bread at The Hoagie Market is fresh and locally sourced. For other delicious choices, look into the daily specials.

When it’s time to check out what’s available for breakfast, how about trying your favourite breakfast ingredients: two eggs, bacon and cheddar surrounded by a really fresh hoagie?

It certainly is a great way to kick start your morning off on the right foot.

Keep in mind The Hoagie Market is more than just sandwiches as burgers, Poutine, fresh cut fries, soups and salads are also served here.

And yes, they also cater!

“Sandwich platters can be done for 40 to 50 people and orders should be placed a few days to a week in advance,” notes Wilkinson. “I can create other menus to suit our guests’ needs for their special events. We do more than just the standard chicken, penne, potatoes and salad!”

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Rick Wilkinson holds up the monster Poutine which is loaded with a pound of fries, including the cheese curds and gravy. Photo courtesy of Stacy Cipparone.

For the future, Wilkinson would like to see The Hoagie Market franchise grow to include other locations. Down the road, changes may be made including menu adjustments, particularly looking into variations on the burgers. You can guarantee that any new menu items added later will go through rigorous taste testing in order to get into the lineup as standards are high at The Hoagie Market.

For more about this new spot to grab a bite, including looking at the menu items, check out their website: HoagieMarket.com. For the hours of operation and the latest news see: Facebook.com/HoagieMarket.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Be On The

March To Fun Filled Activities This Winter Feature Story And Photos By Dave Hall (with one exception)

I

n addition to providing a much-need hiatus from school for their children, March Break can also be a stressful time for parents seeking to find activities to keep their little ones and not-so little ones busy, outside their structured school environment.

While some families are able to head south and soak up the sun for a week, many others are often looking for activities and events closer to home.

To meet those needs, Biz X magazine has put together a list of activities which, while far from complete, provide some answers to the thorny questions facing many families in the middle of winter.

The following businesses profiled in this feature story can help you beat the winter blues in February and March and also offer some suggestions for things to do during March Break, on your own time.

They include pottery making, rock climbing, hiking through one of the region’s many protected natural areas, taking aim with a bow and arrow, tossing axes at a wooden target and playing arcade games, as well as glo-golf and laser tag.

Many businesses and organizations have special programming events planned for March Break and at the end of this feature you can review our MARCH BREAK CAMP DIRECTORY to see specific events for the week of March 11 to 15, 2019.

These special activities can range from additional programming or simply extended hours to accommodate families seeking to keep their children busy, active and entertained close to home. Just turn to page 44 of this issue to see the directory, but first check out the information compiled in this

36

A young girl enjoys painting her own personalized pottery piece at Crock A Doodle where families of all ages can join together to paint and play at their drop-in studio. Photo courtesy of Crock A Doodle.

feature for businesses to visit any time of the year!

Create Unique Hand-Painted Pottery Pieces

For parents seeking an artistic outlet for their children, Crock A Doodle in the Real Canadian Superstore at 4371 Walker Road in Windsor, might be just the answer.

The business, which has been open for just over a year, provides opportunities for people of all ages — not just kids, but also the young at heart — to create ready-topaint pottery pieces with their own unique designs.

“It’s fun art, not fine art,” stresses Manager Lisa Bowen. “But many of the pieces created by children, their parents and grandparents will be part of their lives forever.”

In addition to daily walk-in business, the store offers birthday parties, themed parties every month and a number of special events featuring characters such as Elsa and Olaf from the movie “Frozen;” Bomber, the Windsor Spitfires’ mascot, and many others.

“Our themed events and parties almost always sell out so you need a reservation for those, but we attract a lot of walk-in traffic as well,” explains Bowen.

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Bowen indicates there are drop-off events planned every day during March Break.

“This allows parents to drop off their children and pick them up later in the day,” Bowen notes. “The event includes a lesson, a snack, pizza and a pottery piece they can paint and fire.”

Typically, finished pieces can be picked up a few days later.

“We try to have one themed event every month and they are very popular,” Bowen states. “Children and their parents and grandparents paint the pieces together, so it’s a real family project, which everyone loves.”

Birthday parties typically last about two hours and include a pizza party following the pottery-painting process in Crock A Doodle’s private party room.

Bowen adds there are also ladies’ painting nights, corporate events, seniors’ activities and baby footprint parties.

The products used to make the customized pieces are all non-toxic. The paints are water-based and easily cleaned off hands and clothes and all the pottery pieces are food-safe, so can be used in the same way as regular dishes, cups and mugs.

For more information on upcoming events, rates and how to book a party, refer to: CrockaDoodle.com/Windsor.

THE PARENTING BIZ

A display of finished pottery adorns the wall at Crock A Doodle, a business which allows patrons to customize their own plates, mugs, tiles, dishes and figures, located inside the Real Canadian Superstore on Walker Road.

Cupid Loves Shooting Arrows & Kids Do Too

Owner Sam Toukan bills Archery Mayhem as “the only place in Windsor where you can shoot at someone

and it’s perfectly acceptable.”

Located at Central Park Athletics, 3400 Grand Marais Road West, the business has been open since May 2018 and caters to recreational archery enthusiasts from age 10 and up.

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

“It’s fun, active and competitive,” emphasizes Toukan. “The arrows are fully padded and while you can feel a hit for game purposes, it leaves no marks or bruises and doesn’t hurt.”

Toukan reveals he used to play paintball, but found the pellets left him bruised and sore at times and believes his indoor archery business is much more participant-friendly.

Toukan, who participates in archery combat events across Canada, developed the games and the equipment while studying for his master’s degree in engineering.

“I didn’t feel the equipment I was using was safe enough for use by younger players, so I came up with an entirely new design and everyone seems to love it,” Toukan states.

It was part of a project to design a product or business and then take it to market, remarks Toukan who now works for a major equipment manufacturer as an engineer.

Since Archery Mayhem shares space at Central Park with other sports, events and play times have to be booked in advance, online at: ArcheryMayhem.com (you may also call for a booking).

“We offer special event days, birthday parties, corporate events and individual play or in groups,” adds Toukan.

Fees are $25 per person for 90 minutes,

37

THE PARENTING BIZ Get In The Zone

If parents are seeking activities that combine the physical with competitive play using arcade games, then Zap Zone Fun Centre on Windsor’s far east side at 1665 Lauzon Road might meet those needs.

Zap Zone includes many different arcade games as well as laser tag, bumper cars and glo-golf, lists Manager Crystal Mansour.

“We’ve been open for 10 years now and it’s a very popular place for birthday parties and family get-togethers,” Mansour expresses. “It gives kids a choice between the popular arcade games as well as more physical activities, which sends them home tired but happy.”

On a recent weekend, the centre was filling up with children attending a birthday party in one of the private rooms just off the main gaming floor, as well as families stopping by for a mid-afternoon break.

“It’s a lot more active than many other places and that’s great for young boys,” says Cynthia Relf, a Teacher who was visiting Zap Zone recently for a birthday party for her son Kayaan. “It’s all about keeping them busy and physically active.”

Relf continues by stating, “There are enough games for them to play and there’s a great variety. I’d much rather bring them to a place such as this than having them

A group of young archers try out the equipment during a recent birthday party at Archery Mayhem inside Central Park Athletics in Windsor.

which includes 15 minutes of instruction, with the remainder devoted to games, including “Zombie,” with players who get hit dropping out of the game or “Healer” when a player getting hit gets revived and rejoins the game.

Toukan says that about 50 percent of his

customer base is made up of repeat players, which is a good sign for any business.

“As of mid January we’re already taking bookings for March Break and since we compete for space here at Central Park, it’s always a good idea to book early,” he reiterates.

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

a

THE PARENTING BIZ

Cynthia Relf, left, Gwenyth Kruba, Colin Kruba and Cynthia’s son Kayaan Beg, play one of the many arcade games at the Zap Zone amusement centre.

play at home with their tablets and I-Pads.”

Mansour says there are no current plans for any special programming over March Break, but suggests parents visit: ZapZone.ca for more information on hours and rates.

A second Zap Zone location on the city’s west side recently closed, but will reopen in a new location in the future.

Throw An Axe Or Two

After his father Andre visited a Bad Axe Throwing business in Winnipeg, Jarrett Jokiel was quickly sold on the idea and now Windsor has its own throwing centre where axes are thrown for fun and not in anger.

“It’s a great social night out for all different kinds of people,” says Jokiel, co-owner with

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

his parents of the business in Dorwin Plaza at 2451 Dougall Avenue. “We have kids as young as seven, teens and adults both male and female.”

The axes vary in size and weight and are thrown from a two-handed over-thehead stance at a wooden target board in an enclosed space.

Jokiel says the business caters to bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday and anniversary gatherings and corporate events on a prior-booking basis.

It’s a growing sport, according to Jokiel who says the “World Axe Throwing Championship” were recently televised on ESPN. There are 24 Bad Axe centres across Canada. Windsor’s location (open since November 2018) is the only one not owned

by Mario Zelaya, who started the franchise.

The centre also caters to those interested in individual league play with a seven-week season followed by a one-week playoff.

Participants are first given a lesson in the correct way to throw an axe and after that, it’s safety-first followed by fun and enjoyment.

Jokiel says he’s in the process of applying for a liquor license.

“We’ve already had people asking if we have one,” he explains. “We just want

39

THE PARENTING BIZ during March Break, but no details were available at press time.

For now, the centre is open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday for walk-ins who just want to give it a try and by advance booking on weekends.

“It’s hard to accommodate walk-ins on Friday and Saturday because of the number of advance reservations,” Jokiel admits.

If you have any questions, refer to their website: BadAxeThrowing.com.

Get Back To Nature

Co-owner Jarrett Jokiel lines up to toss an axe at a target inside Bad Axe Throwing located at Windsor’s Dorwin Plaza on Dougall Avenue.

people to come out, have a social drink and throw axes,” adding, “As much as we want people to have fun, we also want them to be safe.”

Jokiel plans to have expanded hours

40

If you’re looking to combine fun, exercise and education, there’s no better place than Ojibway Nature Centre where you’ll find 160 acres of old growth forest and an education centre filled with examples of local wildlife and ecology.

“On a typical walk through the park, visitors can expect to see deer, owls, raccoons, squirrels and many varieties of birds, including gold finches, nuthatches, mourning doves, juncos, woodpeckers and even hawks,” indicates Tracy Cameron, Wildlife and Services Coordinator at the park.

The park, operated by the City of Windsor Department of Parks and Recreation, includes a Pin Oak forest, a savanna and tallgrass prairie habitats, which provide a

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

rich diversity of plant and animal life just minutes from the centre of the city.

There are trails to follow through the park and wheelchair accessible paved trails providing weather conditions permit their use.

The Nature Centre provides an opportunity to learn more about local wildlife and ecology, including displays of snakes, turtles, fish, a red fox and many birds.

Throughout the complex there are also puzzles and games for children as well as touch tables, picnic areas and bird viewing sheds.

Cameron adds that more details on the March Break special programs can be found by visiting: Ojibway.ca.

The park and centre are part of the Ojibway Prairie Complex, which also includes Black Oak Heritage Park, Spring Garden Natural Area and Tallgrass Prairie Heritage Park, which encompass a total of 865 acres.

“It’s always nice to see so many children and pre-schoolers take advantage of what the park has to offer,” Cameron comments.

“March Break is always a popular time for families to learn about nature while at the same time getting some exercise outdoors.”

The park and centre are located at 5200 Matchette Road in Windsor, just south of E.C. Row Expressway.

THE PARENTING BIZ

An interior shot of the Ojibway Nature Centre shows some of the many displays which help visitors, young and old, understand and appreciate local wildlife and ecology. Inset photo courtesy of Kathy Jones.

There is no admission charge to enter any of the parks or the nature centre.

The park is open from dawn to dusk and the centre is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For further details, check out their website: Ojibway.ca.

Hit The Rocks!

A growing Windsor business, which has been open for less than three years, provides not only physical activities, but also problem-solving challenges for everyone from children to seniors.

Ottawa native Marco Fiori opened

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41

THE PARENTING BIZ walks of life who all love the challenge of climbing.”

Fiori tells Biz X his youngest climber is seven and his oldest is 75.

“We have yoga students, teachers and autoworkers all on the wall side-by-side and there aren’t many businesses who can claim that to be true,” believes Fiori.

The biggest challenge for Fiori, prior to opening, was to find a vacant building tall enough to accommodate 20 foot high climbing walls.

There are seven within the building, ranging from a pitch of seven degrees all the way to 75 degrees, which basically means climbers are hanging upside down while they traverse the many foot and finger holds.

“We don’t use ropes or harnesses,” Fiori remarks. “It’s all free climbing, but the pads on the floor are more than safe enough to accommodate a fall or a voluntary drop.”

“The problem-solving aspect and finding the best way to attack the wall can be translated to everyday life, which is one of the reasons I love climbing so much,” explains Fiori. “I’m very passionate about this sport and I think it’s only going to grow and grow.”

Fiori plans on extended hours during

42

March Break to accommodate parents and children looking for a challenging activity.

Everyone who uses the gym must first sign a waiver and all those under 18 must have their parents sign before they can climb.

“Every new climber must go through an orientation session and then they are free to explore the gym on their own or with some help,” says Fiori. “We might offer some lessons in the future, but for now, it’s all open or individual climbing.”

For hours and rates, please go to the website: WindsorRockGym.com.

Family Time Is Of The Essence

March Break is fast approaching and gives families an opportunity to spend quality time together at many businesses throughout Windsor and Essex County, which offer special programming or extended hours.

In the meantime, you can still get in plenty of family fun and activities, both inside and out on the weekends and also celebrate together “Family Day” in Ontario on February 18.

Be sure to take advantage of every chance you can to be with your kids as much as possible this winter!

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Devan Primeau — who has been climbing at Windsor Rock Gym for almost two years as a customer and now helps set the walls to provide different challenges — works his way up the wall at the facility situated on Walker Road.

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

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THE PARENTING BIZ

MARCH BREAK CAMP DIRECTORY It’s All Child’s Play! Discover Several New Awesome Activities

© Can Stock Photo/Vittore

March 11 to 15, 2019

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

THE PARENTING BIZ

It starts with Scouts.

First time discoveries and cool adventures begin with Scouts.

Kids can have a “field day” with plenty of freedom and opportunity to chose activities they love to do this March Break in the Windsor Essex region. From stopping by the library, to a scavenger hunt at the museum, to camps for dancing and horseback riding, children can experience it all.

While many travel down south during the March Break, plenty of other families relax at home and get out and about to area businesses and organizations for a little fun.

March Break is a time of rest from the day-to-day routine of children spending their weekdays learning in the classroom and parents rushing from work to pick them up from school to spend a few hours with them in the evening.

For one week in March (and of course the summer too!) there is time for family, day trips, activities, play, good times and more . . . and that break is right around the corner!

Whereas we hope parents were able to learn about a few new businesses

to take the kids to this winter in our feature story (starting on page 36), this directory now focuses on specific March Break events, programs and camps for you to consider for your children.

Of course this is not a complete list of all there is to do, but it is a good sample of things to do during the break.

Be sure to use the phone numbers and check the websites of each business or organization listed here to get the particulars on how your children can attend a specific camp or activity. As well, you may also look for advertisements in “THE PARENTING BIZ” section of this issue of Biz X for even more suggestions on how to keep the kids busy this special holiday week.

Interested in learning more

Call 1-888-855-3336

or email: sransome@scouts.ca Visit Scouts.ca

Highlighted March Break Camps, Events & Activities In Windsor Essex *unless noted the area code to use is 519

Essex County Library

Looking for something to do this March Break? Stop by your local Essex County Library branch for great programs and activities to enjoy, whether it’s snowing, raining or the sun is shining. Visit: EssexCountyLibrary.ca for more details.

of-a-kind dance camp Windsor has ever seen, during the March Break from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.! Drop off begins at 8:45 a.m. and pickup at 3 p.m. There is an additional charge of $5/hour for early drop off or late pickup. For further information go to: IndustryDanceCo.ca or call 551-2355.

Industry Dance Co.

Montessori Academy of Windsor

Designed to provide your child with the real deal, big city dance experience, Industry Dance Co., 1250 Tecumseh Road East offers the most exclusive, one-

Come visit this safe, nurturing, inspiring environment, located at 1775 Sprucewood Avenue in LaSalle for fun activities each day during the March Break, B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

45

THE PARENTING BIZ person. For further information check out their website: MuseumWindsor.ca.

The Fort Fun Centre

Head over to 689 Texas Rd in Amherstburg for bowling, arcade games, a round of laser tag and delicious food to devour at the on-site restaurant and pizzeria, with daily specials for all to enjoy. Separate fees for each apply. Opening daily at 11 a.m. Visit: TheFortFunCentre.com for full details or phone 736-4382.

The School House Academy Daycare Services

Children enjoy the fur wall at the Chimczuk Museum. Photo courtesy of Museum Windsor.

sure to make your child giggle! Early drop off and late pick-up available. To learn more see: MontessoriAcademy.ca or call 967-9977.

Museum Windsor

Visit the downtown Chimczuk Museum,

46

401 Riverside Drive West in Windsor and explore two new exhibits: “Questers Collect” and “Egypt: The Gift of the Nile” from the Royal Ontario Museum.

Play in their interactive hands-on History Room and try the museum scavenger hunt. General Admission is $5.25 per

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Their March Break camp at 3450 Ypres Avenue in Windsor is an opportunity to participate in a variety of exciting activities for children ages 4 to 12. Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., snacks and lunch are included.

Infant, toddler and preschool are open as well. Register today, limited spaces available.

More info at: TheSchoolHouseAcademy.com or call 974-6222.

Windsor – Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA)

WETRA’s (3323 North Malden Road, Essex) March Break horse camp is perfect for kids (ages 5-9 and 10-14) of all abilities!

Drop off at 8:45 a.m. and pick-up at 3 p.m.

THE PARENTING BIZ

FREE programs for families with children 0-6 years of age.

EarlyON Child & Family Centre Talk 2 Me Kids will love horsin’ around at the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association March Break horse camp, for kids of all abilities! Photo courtesy of Becky Mills.

Bring a lunch, snacks provided throughout the day. Dress warmly, wear boots.

Refer to: WETRA.ca/integrated-marchbreak-summer-camps or phone 726-7682 to learn more.

YMCA at Central Park Athletics

The March Break camp is five days of fun-filled activities designed with an emphasis on outdoor and active programming each day. Swimming, sports, games, art and lots of laughs make the Y the best place for campers to spend their week! Register today! Stop by 3402 Grand Marais Road East in Windsor; go to: YWindsor.ca or YMCAwo.ca; or phone 419-1267 if you have any questions.

Looking For More Ways To Keep Busy During March Break?

“A woodworking class, bowling, going skating, or taking a nature hike, are fun ways to get out of the house,” suggests Lisa Raffoul, Owner of Lisa Raffoul & Associates. “Preparing food and gathering up used items for donation, or volunteering as a family for a worthy cause, all provide a chance to spend meaningful time together while contributing to your community.”

Raffoul is a certified coach and facilitator who works with businesses, organizations and families assisting them to become more compassionate and flexible, discover their strengths, and realize opportunities for growth and development. Find more details on her services at: LisaRaffoul.ca.

Infant Hearing Program Blind-Low Vision Program Be Back Soon Program and much more.

795 Giles Blvd E at Marentette 519.252.9696

Check our monthly calendar of events at connectwithus.ca

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AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

Announcing The 29th Annual “Business Excellence Awards” Finalists Photos courtesy of John Liviero of Sooter’s Photography

The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce and Presenting Sponsor Windsor Star, recently announced the finalists of nine award categories and two award winners for the 29th annual “Business Excellence Awards” (BEA) during a reception at The City Grill Event Centre, 375 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor.

The overall winners are revealed the night of the awards ceremony and dinner, Wednesday April 24 at Caesars Windsor.

Tickets are available on the website: WindsorEssexChamber.org.

However, during the January 9, 2019 press conference and reception sponsored by Media Street Productions, two award winners were announced.

Congratulations to the following recipients . . .

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“Believe Windsor Essex Award” — Alan Quesnel of The Alan Quesnel Family Foundation.

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The “ATHENA Award” — Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh, Director of Leadership Windsor/Essex at the United Way, and also a Biz X magazine columnist.

Quesnel and Colley-Vegh will also be formally recognized at the April ceremony.

Biz X magazine is proud of both of these winners for their accomplishments and contributions to the community and also wishes all finalists the best of luck in their quest to earn a BEA!

PRESENTING THE 2019 BEA FINALISTS (pictured from the left) . . .

“Entrepreneur of the Year” Finalists — Katelynn Garvin, Owner, The Schoolhouse Early Learning Centre/The School House Academy Daycare Services; Peter Valente, President, Valente Development Corporation and (missing from photo) Radu Bogdanel, President, Fulger Transport Inc.

“Mid-Size Company of the Year” Finalists — Monarch Basics (Todd Palcit); Deerbrook Realty Inc. Brokerage (Jennifer Pavao and Kelly Schroth) and (missing from photo) Fahrhall Home Comfort Specialists (Scott Stevens).

“Large Company of the Year” Finalists — Reliance Home Comfort (Rishi Mahajan and Linda Tizzolitto); Vista Print (Christian Valliant and Jim Comiskey) and (missing from photo) Contract Glaziers Corporation (Faith LaFramboise).

“New Business of the Year” Finalists — Xperience Home Health Care (Rob Meyerink and Cindy Wickens); The Hungry Pooch (Attila and Alina Sherman) and RFG Plumbing (Frank, Brandon and Ryan Giles).

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29th annual “Business Excellence Awards” Finalist photos continue. . .

“Pillars of our Community” Finalists — The Multicultural Council of Windsor Essex County (Kathleen Thomas); In Honour of the Ones We Love (Teresa Silvestri and Anita Imperioli) and John McGivney Children’s Centre (Liz Haugh and Elaine Whitmore).

“Small Company of the Year” Finalists — Head of the Class (Julie Fader); Macro Foods (Sara Ducharme and Dan Lomedico) and Windsor Circus School (Tia Nicoletti and Joe Jelasic).

“Professional of the Year” Finalists — Leigh Vachon, Executive Director, Victoria Manor Supportive Housing; Dr. Kelly Upcott-Siebert, Naturopathic Doctor, Lifetime Wellness Center and Origins Naturopathic Retreat and Allison Hawkins, Partner/Owner, Hawkins & Company Accounting Professional Corporation.

“Young Professional of the Year” Finalists — Celso Oliveira, Manager, Business Centre, Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC); Dr. Maxwell Abraham, Orthodontist, Owner, Abraham Orthodontics and (missing from photo) Dr. Matthew Thibert, Pharmacist/Owner, Shoppers Drug Mart, Devonshire Mall and Shoppers Simply Pharmacy, Walker Road.

“Tourism & Hospitality” Finalists — Jack’s Group (Troy Loop); The Grove Hotel & Brew House (Jennifer Flynn) and Urban Surf Company (Danielle Chevalier and Chris Mingay).

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We’re proud to be serving the Windsor Essex community and honored to be a finalist in the Business Excellence Awards.

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2019-01-28 11:10 AM

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from the bookshelf

A Nurse’s Heroism And Favourite Car Stories

By Marlene Markham-Gay

V

incent Courtenay is a local author and the brother of the late Professor Irene Doris Clark-Kennedy Courtenay, the heroine of his book titled “The Good Nurse.”

Vincent’s mission was to tell the story of this very courageous young woman and chart her life from the tender age of 18 at the beginning of her career, through World War II, and later to a life with a spinal cord injury.

It is a story of inspiration, dedication and bravery and keeps the reader fascinated with learning all about this incredible, strong-willed woman.

When Germany began bombing England, Irene was treating bombing victims in a lovely resort city on the coast, performing advanced treatments and witnessing firsthand the suffering of innocent victims.

Upon graduating from nursing, she joined the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps. She was a founding member of the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Windsor.

Follow Irene to Italy on the troop ship S.S. Santa Elena and the perilous escape at sea after the convoy is struck by German glide bombs. The horrors of war which come next are spell binding.

The author chronicles Irene’s last days after her injury. Ironically, this brave woman who dedicated her life to helping others receives inadequate health care in the late months of her life.

The metal ammunition case that Irene Courtenay used as a suitcase in Italy, together with several of her Army uniforms, today reside in the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.

“The Good Nurse” is available for purchase at Biblioasis, 1520 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor.

Next up we have Leamington author, Bill Sherk.

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His book “Old Car Detective Favourite Stories, 1925 to 1965” presents 80 of his favourite stories from 1925 to 1965.

According to Sherk, “Behind every old car there’s a story waiting to be told.”

He is the feature writer for “Old Autos” and writes the syndicated “Old Car Detective” for 30 Canadian newspapers.

Sherk enjoys tracking down old car stories from all across the country writing “Every car is unique and unlike any other car in the world, as every car goes to a different owner.”

The reader can enjoy true stories that have been sent in to Sherk about the cars they owned.

Many of these cars are still in the same family; many have been restored and still exist today.

Stories from each province in Canada are included in this amusing and fascinating publication. A large amount of the content was told by people who have traced the cars they own to the original owners.

One theme seems to come out in each story and that is the joy the car has brought to its owner.

People never forget their first car and they love to tell stories of all the cars they have owned.

Imagine wearing a snorkel mask while driving because your 1947 Hudson burned so much oil, or borrowing your son’s hotrod, a 1953 Monarch with Hollywood mufflers only to be pulled over by the police for drag racing!

“Old Car Detective Favourite Stories, 1925 to 1965” is available at the Essex Railway Station, 87 Station Street in Essex, Ontario and available online at: Amazon.ca.

Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at the Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books.

THE WAY IT WAS

Making A Future Of The Past

By Andrea Grimes

I

t could be said, that nearly everything can be cured by a cup of tea.

Teatime emerged as a distinct afternoon ritual as early as the 1840s.

As a generational tradition “steeped” with a rich and flavoursome history, taking afternoon tea is a universally time-honoured custom that is a civilized way to entertain.

A teacup is the perfect tool through which to promote a formidable social force for change becoming the very mark of respectability — the symbol of hospitality.

Throughout the 18th century, afternoon teas were elaborate affairs both in form and fashion. Skills in serving and taking tea showed that one knew how to behave in polite society, whilst the quality of your tea paraphernalia demonstrated your wealth.

In many cultures, tea is much more than a drink. It is a distinct ritual with social significance. Regarded as indispensable for welcoming guests, tea is served in a very refined way to demonstrate genteelness.

After World War I, it became popular to collect teacups. Manufacturers such as Royal Doulton, Limoges, Royal Worcester, Crown Staffordshire, Royal Albert, Spode, Minton or Wedgewood capitalized on the trend and began to create elegant teacup and saucer sets destined for parlours across Canada.

Understandably, for those who share a passion chasing down the past, the best teacup collections contain sentimental pieces that were inherited or acquired as special gifts.

Terri Birkner, Owner of The Vintage Witch Shoppe, 620 Glengarry Avenue in Windsor (Facebook.com / VintageWitchShop) recalls, “I have many fond memories of the first teaset given to me by a godmother. As a young girl, I spent many hours hosting tea parties in the company of my porcelain dolls and teddy bears.”

Setting the tea table was recognized as a specifically female place and space within the home and while tea consumption expanded to all classes, it maintained its association with fine living and good manners giving rise to age-old etiquette rules, which are still adhered to today.

Birkner adds, “Family heirlooms are significant part of life. With the history and tradition of Victorian-era teacups being valued by this generation, one can only be inspired to start their own tradition by collecting teacups.”

Vintage teacups play a significant role in the history of the Belle Vue in Amherstburg, Ontario. Learn more at: BelleVueConservancy.com.

According to Windsor resident, Joe Gatfield, his uncle, the Reverend Ted Gatfield, lived in Amherstburg until his passing in 2014.

Joe remarks, “Uncle Ted often spoke of going to the Belle Vue as a child. We did some digging into our family history and discovered that Uncle Ted’s older brother, William H. Gatfield married Janette Norvelle, and her sister, Isabella, married John Mullen. Isabella Mullen, (widow of John Mullen) gave my parents a collection of teacups as a gift to commemorate

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Isabella Mullen’s teacups as a Gatfield wedding day gift of May 15, 1943. Photo courtesy of Joe Gatfield.

their wedding on May 15, 1943.”

Following Isabella’s death on May 23, 1944, the Mullen children sold Belle Vue to the Department of Veterans Affairs on June 12, 1946.

It served as a respite care residence for WWI Veterans until its closure in 1954.

Linda Jackson (Corporate Outreach for Belle Vue Conservancy) says, “Vintage teacups preserve a legacy of family traditions shared from one generation to another.

Most certainly, these teacups have a place in our Canadian history — turning yet another page in the chapter of Belle Vue — a 200 year old National Historic Site.”

Gatfield adds, “Our family has agreed to gift the teacups to the Belle Vue Conservancy once the restoration is completed. The teacups will find their way to the dining room where quite possibly they were prepared to be given as the wedding gift to my parents some 76 years ago.”

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OF THE MONTH Story and Photo

By Dave Hall

The School House Academy Daycare Services & Early Learning Centre . . . A Class Act To Follow

A

little over three years after opening its doors with just six children, Windsor’s The School House Academy Daycare Services now has more than 130 enrolled in its programs with plans to expand.

Located in the former CAW (now Unifor) Daycare Centre at 3450 Ypres Avenue, the centre caters to children from infants to 12 years of age.

It’s the second centre for the business, which is owned and operated by the Garvin family — parents Maureen and Jeff, along with their daughter Katelynn.

Katelynn, then just 23, started The School House Early Learning Centre in 2013 at 1235 Grand Marais Road West and after it became so successful, the family started planning for a second location.

“It would have been far too expensive to retrofit an existing building because of all the government regulations and guidelines, but when we found a place which had already been a daycare centre, it made sense to lease here instead of renovating,” explains Maureen.

Among their accomplishments, so far, is the fact that The School House Academy Daycare Services was a 2018 Biz X Award nominee for “Dependable Day Care” and Katelynn is a WindsorEssex Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award finalist in 2019 for “Entrepreneur of the Year.”

Katelynn is a graduate of St. Clair College’s early childhood education program and informs us that she knew what she wanted to do from day one.

“I was always entrepreneurial, even in high school, so starting my own business was always going to be important and combining it with child care is the perfect situation,” says Katelynn. “It’s been tunnel vision since then and I knew this was what I was destined to do.”

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Maureen Garvin, left, grandson Dylan McDonald, Katelynn Garvin and Kennedy Pallazoro, pose in one of The School House Academy Daycare’s common areas where children can gather to play outside of their regular rooms.

Katelynn started Katie G’s Custom Tees back in high school and while she admits “it wasn’t a great success, it did help develop my entrepreneurial spirit.”

Maureen’s interest in daycare comes from having five children and six grandsons.

“I love it, especially when I walk into one of the toddler rooms and they all shout ‘granny’s here, granny’s here,’ says Maureen. “You can’t have a bad day here because the love is unconditional.”

With 20,000 square feet, spread out over the sprawling fully-secure building, the centre includes two infant rooms, four toddler spaces, three pre-school areas, a large school-age room with a kitchen and homework loft, a fully-equipped kitchen, gymnasium, staff lounge, sleeping room, dining room, an indoor play area and five outside play areas.

There’s also a breakfast program as well as lunch and snacks throughout the day.

Plus, there are a number of common areas where children can gather for activities outside of their regular rooms.

On one wall at the centre, a sign states

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“Play is the highest form of research,” which could be the daycare centre’s motto, according to Maureen.

“We offer a wide variety of programs including math, science, development of fine motor skills, literacy, arts, French, crafts, dance, music and physical activity,” lists Katelynn.

There are half-day, full-day and extended-day programs, as well as additional activities during March Break and throughout the summer.

Between the two centres, there are 35 employees with all members of the teaching staff owning ECE degrees. All have police and health clearances and are trained in first aid and CPR. The centres are licenced for 228 children and there are vacancies in all age groups at both locations. They are open year-round from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

There’s also a summer program with themed weeks or days, including space week, pajama and Hawaiian days. And Windsor musician Brendan Scott Friel offers regular music programs for the children.

The centre meets all Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines with one staff member for every three infants, one for five toddlers, one for eight pre-schoolers and one for 15 school-age children.

Rates vary according to the age of the child and subsidies are available for qualified applicants through the City of Windsor.

It’s a fully licenced daycare centre open to everyone across the city of Windsor, regardless of whether or not they are members of a union. Busing is also available at both centres from selected area grade schools.

To learn more, visit both of their websites: TheSchoolhouseAcademy.com and TheSchoolhouseELC.ca.

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