Biz X magazine February 2023

Mental Health Connections (MHC) provides services to persons 16 years or older who are experiencing mental health issues. Below are examples of classes offered to MHC clients. If you wish to register for our services, please call the office for further information.

IN-PERSON PROGRAMS

• Healthy Body: Fitness, Aqua Fitness, Nutrition, Yoga, Zumba and Aikido

• Healthy Mind: Coping with Depression, Anger, Anxiety and Stress; Self Esteem, Mindfulness, Codependency, Relationships, Communications, Acts of Kindness, Recovery Strategies and Self Care

• Creative Classes: Art, Writing, Sewing, Knitting, Crocheting, Ceramics, Games, Activities and Karaoke

• Life Skills: Budgeting and Basic Skills Building

• Vocational Training: Food Service, Customer Service, or Janitorial Services (Paid Positions for Clients)

• Family Initiatives: Family/Caregiver Support (Individual and Group)

• Leamington Group: Tuesday and Thursday Afternoons

VIRTUAL PROGRAMS

• Healthy Body: Zumba, Yoga, Toning and Ballroom Dance

• Healthy Mind: Self Esteem, Anxiety, Recovery Strategies and Understanding Grief

• Creative Classes: Painting and Book Club

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2023

Volume 26 • Issue 2

4 Funny Stuff

5 From The Publisher: Here We Grow Again!

An updated Biz X website & print distribution expanded to London.

6 Guest Column: The Canadian Digital Adoption Program

The federal government financially supports business investment in technology. Do you qualify?

7 Front Lines

11 Event Profile: Voca’s Muse, A Local Dance Show

12 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: The Keys To Success For WEST (Women’s Enterprise Skills Training Of Windsor Inc.)

13 Motivational Quotes With Danny

14 Newsflash

15 Tasty Morsels: Pauly’s Protein Balls

16 Food For Thought: Pita Mania, Tecumseh, ON

If you are obsessed with eating delicious pitas, then you are going to love this article on Pita Mania! Open for 23 years, Mladen Remetic and his team have made quite a name for themselves with their original Chicken Supreme. But they have plenty more choices wrapped up in pita heaven, such as Greek Salad, Caesar Salad, Veggie Supreme, Chick Pea Veggie, Meat Lover’s and the Gyro Mania (photographed with a Greek Salad)! Of course gyro meat is included, but feta, lettuce, tomato, onion, Tzatziki and their special sauce are too. Hungry for more details on this Lesperance Road biz? Then turn to page 16 now! (Photo courtesy of Pita Mania)

SPECIAL SECTION HONOURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES FROM PAGE 18 TO PAGE 36 . . .

18 Cover Story: The 28 Day Buy Black Challenge (see below)

25 Tech Bytes: Announcing The New Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network

26 From The Bookshelf: Looking Into The Mirror By Garnet Thompson

27 XX Files: Bethany Russell, The Wedding Belles & Brava Academy Of Music And The Performing Arts

28 The Way It Was: Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare . . .

The Foundation Of Faith And Resolve Built A Community

30 Ask The Experts: RaheemCo. Construction Services

32 The Parenting Biz: Teach Your Children Well

We profile several Black organizations offering educational opportunities and events for all families and children — no matter what their race may be — to learn about the importance of Black History. We interview local individuals serving the community who aim to empower Black youth to become the future leaders of tomorrow. One in particular is Family Fuse, represented by Christie Nelson, Program Manager (see photo above) that supports Black parents, guardians and caregivers in navigating the education system for their school-aged children. They offer free workshops and coaching. Want to know more? Then check out this feature story! (Photo courtesy of Olivia Filipov)

REGULAR MAGAZINE COLUMNS CONTINUE . . .

37 Kids In The Community: The Meaning Of Home Contest And Its Connection To Habitat For Humanity

38 Hot Shots: The 2022 WECAR Appreciation Luncheon

Every year at their annual luncheon, the Windsor-Essex County Association Of REALTORS (WECAR) awards a Certificate of Scholarship to a student in honour of an outstanding performance. Yu Zhuang is their 2022 recipient and his father, Johnny Zhuang (in photo above), accepted the award on his behalf. Johnny is a REALTOR with RE/MAX Care Realty (Team Goran). The luncheon also recognized members of the real estate profession for specific numbers of years of service. Find out which agents from local agencies are celebrating big milestones in our photo page spread.

(Photo by Rod Denis)

42 Biz Of The Month: The New Owners Of Dutch Boys Chocolate

ON THE COVER — Celebrating Black Owned Businesses — Page 18

Black Business Can Inc. is recognizing Black History Month with its third annual Buy Black Challenge over 28 days in February. The group challenges Windsor and Essex County residents to buy products and services from a Black owned business each day of the month. When you do, hashtag your experience with them on social media (#blackbusinesscan) and share your posts too. Let’s all support Black owned businesses by ordering food from their establishments, using their services for entertainment needs and karate instruction, purchasing their items at retail shops, and learning about Black history by visiting area museums. Make a difference . . . one person, one purchase, one share at a time!

COVER LOCATION AND BUSINESS OWNER PICTURED: Razia Mwondha is the owner and designer of 7ByRaz African Fashion & Accessories, Tecumseh Mall, 7654 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor. She is part of the group, Black Business Can and participates in the Buy Black Challenge. Her products are made in Canada, as well as in her native land of Kenya. She uses authentic African printed, sourced fabric and the accessories she sells are hand made. As you can see by all the colourful items on the front cover, inside her store you can find Kitenge shirts and jackets, dresses, designer purses, running shoes, brass jewellery, scrunchies, Kenyan bead necklaces, blankets, baskets, and brown skin dolls to match a child’s dark complexion.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com)

FUNNY STUFF

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Will You Paw-lease Be My Valentine?

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Sometimes you just have to look at life from a different perspective. Upside down seems to work for Koda!

“Striving to provide our readers with a quality magazine that contains accurate information about the businesses and people that shape our border cities; and that challenges us to appreciate, explore and contribute to our communities.”

Quinn O’Rourke is looking quite . . . fetching.

With Kalani, it’s not just puppy love, it’s the real deal.

Ozzie

PRESIDENT Deborah Jones

VICE-PRESIDENT

Colin Jones

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES

Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher

Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Jack Rosenberg

WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Lori Baldassi

Steven Bezaire

Julianna Bonnett

David Clark

Andrea Grimes

Colin Grimmond

Danny Gautama

Dave Halliday

Joe McParland

Jim Murphy

Victoria Rose

Doug Sartori

Rebecca Wright

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodney L. Denis Photography

Sanja Tabor

PRODUCTION DESIGN

Rae Marie

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Biz X MAGAZINE, OWNED BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. IS PUBLISHED EACH MONTH WITH THE EXCEPTION OF DOUBLE ISSUES IN THE SUMMER AND NOV/DEC. THE MAGAZINE IS ONLY SOLD ON NEWSSTANDS IN ONTARIO FOR $3.50 PER COPY PLUS HST AND PERSONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS MAY BE ORDERED FOR $45 PLUS HST FOR 10 ISSUES IN CANADA. THE ACCEPTANCE OF ADVERTISEMENTS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF THE PRODUCTS OR SERVICES ADVERTISED. THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED IN EDITORIALS AND CONTRIBUTIONS BY COLUMNISTS AND ADVERTISERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN ANY EDITORIAL COLUMNS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE PUBLISHER. INFORMATION IS TIMELY AS OF OUR PRINT DEADLINE. Biz X MAGAZINE IS A REGISTERED NAME OF 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION. CONTENTS COPYRIGHT ©2023 BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD.

A Revamped Website & London Here We Come

By Deborah Jones

2023 is already in full swing and here we are already with our second issue of the year.

February generally is a slower time for us as it is for many companies, but with ongoing effects of the pandemic and the high cost of various products/services (food and fuel being the top two), it seems as though there are more challenges than ever for business owners, regardless of the industry.

For us, the cost to print each issue has skyrocketed in the last year and a half. It’s a combination of different factors, but we are determined to survive.

We have chosen to keep our advertising rates the same as when we first started back in February 1998. Even though we really should increase our prices as we offer more bang for your advertising buck, added to our distribution outlets, and have a digital edition

Keeping our rates low is our way of supporting our advertisers. And clients are supporting us in return so we can get the magazine out on our regular schedule.

Consistency counts for businesses in their marketing campaigns and we won’t let you down.

In fact we are continually growing in many areas. Case in point is our website.

During the holidays, Jack Rosenberg in our Business Development department worked on a complete overhaul of BizXmagazine.com.

Our new and improved website is now more mobile friendly allowing less scrolling and easier access to our content.

New and useful articles of interest to all in the region are added daily. There is also an extensive event calendar, as well as blogs

In addition, we have expanded our distribution coverage of the print issue. This is great news for those in the hospitality and tourism industry as travellers staying in certain Ontario hotels can pick up a copy of Biz X, read our stories and see any advertisements that might entice them to get in the car and drive to Windsor Essex!

You can now find our issues in the following spots . . .

- London: American Plaza Hotel; Country Inn & Suites; Days Inn; Delta London Armories; Econolodge; Holiday Inn Express; Knights Inn; London Travel Inn; Motel 6; Motor Court Motel; Lighthouse Inn; Parkway Motel; Quality Suites; Staybridge Suites; Super 7 Motel and the Tourist Information Centre.

- Woodstock: Best Western Plus Woodstock Inn & Suites; Days Inn; Econolodge; Quality Inn; Tulip Motel and Westmount Hotel

- Aylmer Tourist Information Centre; Belmont Husky/Esso Travel Centre; Shell Travel Centre in Drumbo and the Comfort Inn Suites in Ingersoll

Plus, there is more good news on the horizon! Next issue I will reveal an exciting

Federal Funds For Business Tech

By Doug Sartori

Canada’s federal government is distributing $4 billion to businesses to help support the adoption of digital technologies.

Delivered through two different streams, the Canadian Digital Adoption Program is aimed at helping small and medium-sized businesses leverage technology to improve sales, drive operational efficiency or to better manage their business. This program is available until March 31, 2025

The Grow Your Business Online grant (See: ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canadadigital-adoption-program/en/grow-yourbusiness-online) offers up to $2,400 to help small businesses expand or establish their e-commerce presence.

The application process is streamlined and recognizes the time constraints experienced by small business owners. Almost any business can qualify for these grants.

The Boost Your Business Technology

Grant (See: ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canadadigital-adoption-program/en/boost-yourbusiness-technology-grant) is a bit more selective, with a $500,000 revenue requirement, but offers up to $15,000 to build a digital needs assessment with an expert consultant, with interest-free loans up to $100,000 available from the Business Development Corporation for implementation of consultant recommendations.

Once an application is approved, the business selects an approved consultant and, when the work is done, receives reimbursement for 90% of the cost of the needs assessment.

For businesses in Windsor Essex, there are several local options to access or execute on this funding, through various companies who can help deliver grant-funded needs assessments. Approved applicants can choose any qualified Digital Advisor to deliver their needs assessment.

According to Sabrina DeMarco — the Executive Director of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre, a division of Invest WindsorEssex — their Digital Service Squad has helped 17 businesses in the region access over $40,000 in funding through Grow Your Business Online. You can learn more about the supports they offer on their website: webusinesscentre.com/en/how-we-can-help/ digital-main-street.aspx.

A well-executed adoption of digital technology can be transformative.

Digitally mature businesses are more competitive and that’s invaluable in a tough economic environment.

Doug Sartori is Owner and Principal Consultant at Parallel 42 Systems, a qualified Digital Advisor able to deliver grant-funded needs’ assessments. A software developer and database expert, Doug’s work is focused on helping organizations find success with software. Find out more about his company on: p42systems.com.

New Report Outlines Ways For Employers To Embrace Remote Work In Windsor Essex

At the end of January, Workforce WindsorEssex released a report — Remote Work in Our Community — to recognize the benefits and dispel myths concerning remote work.

The report encourages local employers to continue to embrace innovative remote work strategies to benefit both them and workers, long-term.

It also warns employers that the wrong company policy for their industry could lead to retention and recruitment challenges.

Based on findings from a recent community survey conducted by Workforce WindsorEssex, approximately 75% of responding local workers felt positive changes since working remotely and 84% noted they would like to continue working remotely. Approximately 73% of respondents said that remote work options would entice them to apply to job postings.

“As we see a growing interest from employees and jobseekers for remote work and work from home employment, employers need to understand how their workforce can

grow from these opportunities,” indicates Tashlyn Teskey, Manager of Research Projects, Workforce WindsorEssex. “Improving onboarding and orientation for remote employees will ensure that employers can benefit from this opportunity to address recruitment and retention challenges.”

The new report addresses the negative misconceptions that are associated with remote work, such as a reduction in productivity, collaborative work, and workplace culture.

This misconception is causing many employers to be unsure of the benefits of remote work and not prepared to offer it long-term.

However, several studies have found that employees feel more productive when working from home, which they attribute to a lack of office distractions, zero commute time, and a greater work and life balance.

The benefits to employers include: an increase in worker satisfaction (which would lead to an increase in retention), the opportunity to outsource skilled labour

that may be lacking in Windsor Essex, and the ability to hire more workers without increasing office space and overhead costs during business growth.

To embrace remote work, recommendations for employers include: scheduling check-ins to monitor productivity and ensure clear communication, providing employees with the necessary technology in order to be productive from home, and using video conferencing applications and online resources to improve collaborative work and maintain a strong workplace culture.

According to Statistics Canada, 40% of Canadian jobs can be done from home, and almost six in 10 workers with a bachelor’s degree (59%) can work from home.

The number of jobs that could plausibly be worked from home differ, depending on the industry. Telework capacity is less than 15% in agriculture and less than 20% in manufacturing, but it ranges from 84% to 85% in finance and insurance, educational services, and professional, scientific, and technical services.

To download and view the report go to: WorkforceWindsorEssex.com/remotework-in-our-community. To learn more about Workforce WindsorEssex and view their tools and resources, visit the website: WorkforceWindsorEssex.com.

FedDev Ontario Invests More Than $5.3 Million For Two Manufacturers

TheWindsor region is home to a thriving manufacturing sector supporting many industries such as automotive, food/beverage and aerospace. The Government of Canada continues to support manufacturers to help them bring new products to market, create jobs and grow southern Ontario’s economy.

Proof of this occurred in mid-January when the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDevOntario.gc.ca), and Irek Kusmierczyk, Member of Parliament for Windsor – Tecumseh, announced an investment of more than $5.3 million for two Windsor region manufacturers — Cedar Valley Selections Inc. and Uni-Fab

This funding will help create 55 jobs and improve their manufacturing capabilities.

Established in 2017, Cedar Valley Selections Inc. is a family-owned food manufacturer of bottled salad dressings and pita chips, which are available at many leading retailers across Canada, including Longo’s and Sobeys. The business is located in Oldcastle and on the web at: CedarValleySelections.ca.

This $375,000 investment, through the Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF), will help Cedar Valley buy new equipment to improve its production capacity and meet the demand for its ready-to-make foods.

The project will also help the company to move into the U.S. market, as well as boost local supply chain spending and create five new jobs in the Windsor region.

“The funding received from FedDev Ontario could not have come at a better time in our journey as we grow Cedar Valley,” says Ameen Fadel, Founder and President.

Fadel continues: “With increasing distribution and demand, we’ve had to invest in new automated systems to help improve our production capacity, employee safety and product quality. The funding provided by FedDev Ontario is necessary to meet our growth trajectory for 2023 and beyond, allowing us to scale with new technologies and welcome additional team members.”

Founded in 1991, Uni-Fab (Refer to: Uni-Fab.on.ca) located in Leamington and one of the largest metal fabricators in southern Ontario with 178 full-time employees — manufactures custom aluminum, steel and stainless steel products for the automotive, aerospace and machine tool sectors.

“With the support of FedDev Ontario, we have been able to expedite the growth of Uni-Fab, even in a time of uncertainty,” states Abe Fehr, President.

This $5-million investment, through JGF, will help Uni-Fab grow their facility and buy new equipment to commercialize their innovative automated pallet changer technology.

These improvements will allow them to save time and money. The jobs this new technology will create will ensure that Uni-Fab is able to meet demand for their products and contribute to a growing economy.

“This investment in Cedar Valley and UniFab is supporting our local manufacturers as they grow and commercialize unique first-to-market manufacturing technology, while creating 55 jobs here in Windsor Essex,” comments MP Irek Kusmierczyk. “By investing in these businesses, our government is taking the necessary steps to help our communities and our businesses contribute to a more resilient future.”

Pictured at the January press conference, the owners of Cedar Valley Selections Inc. Surria Fadel (Co-Owner, standing third from left); Ameen Fadel, Founder and President (kneeling on the left); and Ramsey Fadel, Vice President, pose with staff members and Irek Kusmierczyk, MP Windsor–Tecumseh (middle).

EVENT PROFILE Voca’s Muse: February 10 & 17; March 3, 10, 11, 2023 At The Chrysler Theatre, Downtown Windsor

Voca’sMuse is an original dance production written, directed, choreographed, and performed entirely by local talent, all sourced from within Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent counties.

The production is choreographed by Justine Thompson-Fisher (also an executive producer), with MIA Grybas as set coordinator and executive producer, and written, directed, and executive produced by Justin Teeuwen

It is a partnership of Song & Dance Productions Inc. and Meta Excellence Inc. and is focused on a vision of employing artists throughout Windsor Essex.

The show takes place February 10 and 17 and continues on March 3 and 10 at 8 p.m. and March 11 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., at the Chrysler Theatre inside the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts in downtown Windsor.

Teeuwen, originally from Chatham and living in Windsor for the past 20 years, states: “This work is the culmination of over a decade of inspiration from artists throughout Windsor Essex, where we have a wonderfully high density of artists considering the size of our community. These artists are able and willing to showcase their talent and only need a platform. This production was created to showcase the incredible talent of Windsor Essex, while also demonstrating the power of art to change our lives.”

The story follows a main character that falls in love with the arts and has to tangle with trying to do what she loves, while also fighting through the uncertainties of her self-esteem and self-confidence, as well as struggling with societal demands.

It’s all about an artist who must choose between her passion and her muse; a riveting

plot about how art affects our daily lives, helps us grow, and lights the way to our passions, regardless of what life throws our way.

Voca’s Muse focuses on the challenges artists face on the path to pursuing their dreams, having to choose between their artistic visions and everyday life pressures.

The producers expect that audiences will connect with this story of an artist having to make a choice. Whether as an artist, entrepreneur, scientist, or family member, people are tasked by the demands of life to choose between those demands and their passion to pursue their dreams.

By the end of the show, audiences will know and remember what it takes to continue this pursuit, while stepping around the pitfalls that interfere with their heart’s desire.

The production is a fusion of dance styles

including jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical, tap, and acrobatics!

The show includes music from over 35 artists, such as David Bowie, Drake, Hans Zimmer and Lady Gaga, all blended into a seamless narrative for the audience to find themselves in.

It has a robust cast of 24 performers and a crew of 11, and showcases our community, both locally and nationally, and demonstrates how art is a continual source of economic growth.

To purchase tickets online go to: bit.ly/VocasMuseBoxOffice or call the Chrysler Theatre Box Office. To keep up to date with the production, check their social media page at: Facebook.com/VocasMuse.

We at Biz X magazine encourage everyone to support this entirely local production and any others you have the opportunity to see!

Shown are the cast members of Voca’s Muse, a dance show being performed at The Chrysler Theatre, on select dates in February and March 2023. Photo courtesy of Justin Teeuwen.

Go WEST With Women’s Enterprise Skills Training Of Windsor Inc.

By Joe McParland

In1993, the Pet Shop Boys had the number one “dance song” on the U.S. Billboard charts, GO WEST.

It is an uplifting anthem-like song capturing the famous 19th Century phrase, “Go WEST, young man, go WEST!”

I think of this each time I travel past the Herb Gray Centre For Nonprofit Excellence at 647 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor and see the large sign at the top of the building for the Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (known as WEST). This makes me smile and sing out: yes, indeed, Go WEST !

WEST exists to supply training for women to improve their employability in the workforce and/or further their education.

Since 1987, WEST has provided 50,000 women in Windsor Essex with support and programs to aid them in securing employment, enhancing their skills, along with providing newcomer and immigrant women with services designed to help them adapt and integrate into Canadian culture and their new community.

This not-for-profit organization has grown from its beginnings in 1987 to a current staff of 60, mostly under the leadership of Rose Anguiano Hurst, WEST Executive Director for the past 27 years.

And she is doing an amazing job!

Hurst and her team are definitely doing something right as federal and provincial funding and grants keep coming their way.

On March 18, 2021, Irek Kusmierczyk, Member of Parliament for WindsorTecumseh, announced that WEST was receiving $1,648,837 in federal funding for their Young Women in LEAD (Leadership, Education and Development) program to provide 120 young women with hands-on skills training and on-the-job experience.

Kusmierczyk stated: “Women’s Enterprise Skills Training (WEST) of Windsor Inc. is a fantastic example of a community organization creating long-lasting change in the lives of Canadian women.”

Next, an early Christmas present for WEST arrived on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 when community members, participants, staff, and board members of Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. gathered to celebrate the $150,000 Resilient

Communities Fund grant they received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).

“Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor has been providing essential training services to those women in our community who need it most, for many years now,” says Lisa Gretzky, MPP Windsor West “The organization was clearly deserving of this Resilient Communities Fund grant from OTF, and I congratulate everyone involved.”

Hurst adds: “This grant came at the right time to complement our return to in-person services. The Resiliency Fund grant offered the funding for the solutions we identified; we needed to offer an improved environment with innovative training solutions in a safe environment, so we can continue our work helping some of the most vulnerable in the community support their employment and training needs.”

Powered by the OTF grant, the funding was used to support the organization to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

This was achieved through supporting staffing costs, renovations, and equipment purchases for safe in-person delivery of a

digital skills training program. New equipment included upgraded computers, desks, and chairs, along with other technological enhancements, including a Smartboard.

According to Hurst, the OTF grant has also aided with other strategic enhancements, including updating a communications strategy to improve the organization’s work and outcomes.

This plan will serve as a blueprint for the organization to proactively promote its programs reaching target audiences, and further the organization’s impact throughout the community.

One of the exciting WEST initiatives is Women In Skilled Trades. WEST has forged solid partnerships with stakeholders like St. Clair College and labour unions like Unifor Local 444. Over 280 women have already been trained with job ready skills to enter the skilled trades’ workforce.

On International Women’s Day — March 8, 2023 — WEST presents their 17th Journey Toward Success Awards and International Women’s Day Gala, with this year’s theme, Embrace Equity.

St.

The event at

Clair

Pictured during a tour of the St. Clair College Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Women at St. Clair College from left are: Tina Fotopoulos, Pre-Apprenticeship Manager, St. Clair College; Nadine Manroe-Wakerell, Chair, WEST Board of Directors; Paul Renaud, Unifor 444 Skilled Trades Chairperson; Hon. Charmaine A. Williams, Ontario Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity; Lido Zuccato, St. Clair College, Dean, Schools of Engineering, Apprenticeship & Skilled Trades and Rose Anguiano Hurst, WEST Executive Director.. Photo courtesy of Tobi Olawale.

College Centre For the Arts includes a terrific meal, music by Six Degrees, a silent auction and raffle. Tickets are $90 and can be ordered online at: WestOfWindsor.com/iwd.

This special gala is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate not only International Women’s Day, but the many successes of WEST in recent years.

In addition to the awards segment, WEST is thrilled to have as their guest speaker, Carolyn Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Windsor Detroit Borderlink Limited –Windsor Detroit Tunnel

I was able to catch up with this very busy woman and asked her for a preview of her remarks. Here’s what she shared . . .

“I am honoured that the Board of Directors of WEST has chosen me to deliver the keynote address at their 2023 International Women’s Day Gala. This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity.”

Brown continues: “Equity is a journey, not a destination. As a woman of colour, whose family immigrated to Canada in the 1970s, my hope is that in sharing the road to my accomplishments and the challenges and opportunities that have placed an imprint on my career, that in my remarks the audience will hear something familiar, something inspirational and something that gives them ‘food for thought’.”

Biz X magazine is proud to sponsor WEST’s initiatives and their contributions to our community and congratulates them for their recent grants and federal funding. We hope to see many of you at the gala on March 8 as we collectively sing out, “GO WEST, GO …!”

Motivational Quotes

Make

Danny Gautama is an inspirational writer who writes for mental health organizations, hospitals, and is a blogger on: BizXmagazine.com. He helps many on social media and is a two time recipient of the LoveMakers Foundation Awards. Connect with him by emailing: dannygautamawellness@gmail.com.

LOVE emits empathy, compassion and gentleness from one heart to another.

It brings people closer.

It keeps them happier and healthier.

LOVE every part of your existence.

The Keynote Speaker for the 2023 WEST gala is Carolyn Brown, Chief Executive Officer – Windsor Detroit Borderlink Limited; Windsor Detroit Tunnel Photo courtesy of Mychailo Photography (Mike Kovaliv).

THE RUNDOWN

In early January, the federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Karina Gould, together with the Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada, and United Way Centraide Canada, announced that the application process for the Community Services Recovery Fund (CSRF) is now open. Community foundations, including the WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF.ca), are managing the application process alongside the Canadian Red Cross and local United Ways to reach a broad and diverse range of community service organizations, such as charities, non-profits and Indigenous governing bodies. The CSRF is a historic one-time investment of $400 million that will help community service organizations to adapt, to modernize and to be better equipped to improve the efficacy, accessibility and sustainability of the community services that they provide, so they can continue to support communities across Canada through the pandemic recovery and beyond. “The Community Services Recovery Fund will support charities, nonprofits and Indigenous governing bodies in Windsor and Essex County,” notes Lisa Kolody, Executive Director, WindsorEssex Community Foundation. “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, these organizations have stood up for and supported our community. We will be forever grateful for their efforts. Now, through this Fund, the WindsorEssex Community Foundation will support projects at charities, non-profits and Indigenous governing bodies that invest in their internal systems and processes, making them more resilient for the future.” Applications for funding can be submitted until February 21, 2023. Organizations are encouraged to complete the interactive quiz to determine where and how to apply. Additional information and resources, including an applicant guide, can be found on: CommunityServicesRecoveryFund.ca.

The ATHENA Scholarship Fund (Windsor) is proud to announce that applications are now being received for its 2023 ATHENA Scholarship Program. Application forms are also available at: WindsorChamber.org/athena or on: AthenaScholarshipWindsor.com. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

(1) Be between the ages of 18 and 30 years as of January 1, 2023; (2) Be currently enrolled

full-time (attending primarily during the day) in a college or university and (3) Have spent a significant and substantial period of time (at least 16 months as of April 28, 2023) in Windsor/Essex County. Students of any gender must demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement and be engaged in leadership activities. Most importantly, they must have increased the leadership opportunities for women by mentoring, role-modelling and leading activities to help women reach their full potential. Four scholarships of $5,000 each will be awarded as follows: one to a St. Clair College student; one to a University of Windsor student; one to a student who is attending any college or university provided he/she has spent a significant period of time in Windsor/Essex County (see above); and one to a University of Windsor Faculty of Law Student. The submission deadline is Friday, April 28, 2023, 4 p.m. The 2023 ATHENA Scholarship Luncheon will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts.

The Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS aka WECAR (WindsorRealEstate.com) has a new Board of Directors for the year 2023! In the accompanying photo below (courtesy of Mychailo Photography) from left (Back Row) are Directors: Damon Winney, Broker of Record, Jump Realty Inc.; Alyssa Ismail, Salesperson, Century 21 Erie Shores Realty Inc.; Brian A. Price, Salesperson, Real Broker Ontario Ltd. and Julianna Biondo, REALTOR, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd. (Front Row): Elica Berry, Salesperson, Jump Realty Inc. (Past President); Maggie Chen, Broker of Record, LC Platinum Realty Inc. (President-Elect); Mark Lalovich, Broker, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. (President); and Krista Gionet, CAE, CRAE, WECAR (Executive Officer).

Brentunes Publishing has recently released the first of three booklets on The Chantones, a Windsor, Ontario based group that had success as a quartet and trio from 1954 to 1976. They were well known as backup vocalists to singer Jack Scott on 18 of his charted singles between 1958 and 1961. The booklet has been developed in consultation with The Chantones’ members Jim Nantais and Jack Grenier. Part 1 covers the period of the band’s early years from 1954 until the release of their hit record, Ann Marie at the end of 1957. The 44 page booklet is available in paperback format from Amazon worldwide. Future booklets will be Part 2: The History of The Chantones — Jack Scott and more success — 1958-61. The final booklet will be Part 3 The History of The Chantones — The folk trio years 1962-76. For more information on these books or others by Paul Langan, you can reach the author through his website: PaulLangan.com.

On January 16, 2023 the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDevOntario.gc.ca), along with Irek Kusmierczyk, Member of Parliament for Windsor – Tecumseh, announced $5 million for CapsCanada Corporation (CapsCanada), through the Community Economic Development and Diversification stream, to automate production and meet the growing demand for its made-inCanada products. Located in Lakeshore, Ontario, CapsCanada produces high-quality capsules used for dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals. This investment will support CapsCanada in growing its facility by 14,100 square feet and will also allow the company to purchase the equipment needed to produce a wider variety of capsule sizes. Supporting CapsCanada as it rises to meet growing demand for its Canadian made capsules, is why investments like this are so important. Our government states that it will continue investing in the potential of strong businesses so they can contribute to

our growing economy. As a major employer in the region, with nearly 170 staff, the company will create an additional 50 highly skilled jobs in the manufacturing sector through this project. “This funding support from FedDev Ontario will help CapsCanada Corporation continue to grow our capacity and increase our product offering in our efforts to bolster our market share and service the growing demand in both Canada and the U.S. for HPMC capsules,” states Tom Breshamer, General Manager, CapsCanada Corporation. Founded in 2001 with a global clientele, CapsCanada is the only manufacturer in Canada — and one of only three manufacturers in North America — with the capabilities to produce twopieced, hard-shell capsules. Its popular HPMC capsules are a vegetarian alternative to gelatin capsules, and also certified by The Vegan Society, which are widely used in the nutrition and pharmaceutical industries. Learn more at: CapsCanada.com.

Earlier this year, the Town of Amherstburg received a non-repayable

TASTY MORSELS

Pauly’s Protein Balls

By David Clark

Was your New Year’s Resolution to change your diet and start eating food that is good for you? Perhaps Pauly’s Protein Balls can help!

A one man operation since 2020, Owner and Operator Paul Konopaski has been creating healthy low calorie bite-sized protein balls for those with special diets out of his home based kitchen (following healthy and safety standards) where he works his magic.

As a fitness enthusiast and a healthy snacker — after trying all the protein bars and other similar items — he thought he could make a better, health-oriented ball with a taste that will knock your socks off!

“Most of the sugary stuff out there is like cardboard,” Konopaski believes. “Not an enjoyable experience at all. The offerings are unimpressive and lacked the essential properties I required, so I made a plan.”

In a real life underdog story, he had gone down the wrong road and was in trouble on more than one occasion. If it weren’t for the love of his mom and dad, he would have stayed homeless.

Konopaski’s parents never gave up on him and continually encouraged him, which became a catalyst for good things to come, including educational courses and the industry he was interested in.

contribution of $100,000 from Ontario’s Southwest Regional Tourism Organization (RTO1) to create directional wayfinding signs that will drive visitation into Amherstburg from major corridors and rural areas. In addition, Indigenous storyboards will be installed shortly and will provide unique cultural information. This is part of the Government of Canada’s Tourism Relief Fund, delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). RTO1 received nearly $11 million from FedDev Ontario to help local tourism organizations and businesses safely welcome back visitors, recover from the impacts of the pandemic and prepare for future growth. “We are grateful for this investment provided by FedDev Ontario and Ontario’s Southwest Regional Tourism Organization,” expresses Mayor Michael Prue, for the Town of Amherstburg. “Tourism is important to the health of our economy, and this investment shows needed support for

rural small businesses. With these funds, our town now has essential wayfinding to assist visitors with fresh, updated signs, in line with the Town’s branding. We are also proud of this opportunity to highlight important indigenous oral stories throughout our community.” The Town’s Tourism Department worked closely with a member and knowledge keeper of the local Indigenous community, resulting in the new storyboards that will promote history and information about the significance of the location where a visitor may be standing. QR codes will be accessible by smartphone for audio messages regarding each storyboard. The new signs and storyboards are bright, bold, informative and consistent and will identify Amherstburg as a thoughtful community with deep cultural, ecological and Indigenous roots. As one of southwestern Ontario’s oldest towns, Amherstburg offers unique attractions and programs that draw on its authentic history as a War of 1812 community. To see more details refer to: VisitAmherstburg.ca.

Through the InstaCert program, Konopaski completed courses for a Food Handler Certificate and has the necessary permit to operate from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.

A light bulb went off when he realized he could mix tasty, honest-to-goodness natural balls with ingredients made to nourish the body at an affordable price, specifically for the fitness group and everyday snackers.

After all the preparation, he now has numerous customers and has sold thousands of protein balls in the area.

As Konopaski points out: “My product is made with whole, simple ingredients that your body can metabolize into essential ingredients to keep it strong and healthy, almost like the taste of a Timbit with loads of energy, but less sugar. Pauly’s Protein Balls are perfect after a hard workout, or just a pick-me-up when you need a shot of energy in between meals.”

With three flavours, including chocolate chip, vanilla coconut and oatmeal raisin, they are made with hearty ingredients and around 100 calories, low saturated fat and sugar too, all in one convenient bite-size.

It is a 30 gram rolled up ball.

The ingredients for one of them, the Chocolate Chip Protein Ball, is chocolate chips (of course LOL!), chocolate flavouring, flaxseed, 10% whey protein isolate, leucine, fibre, amino acid and Scottish steel oats.

The nutritional base is only 4.7 grams of fat, 8% saturated and a low 3% in sugar. Calories are at 127.1 on this one.

Always giving back, he does work through his church and the business by offering food to those who need it and he donates clothing as well.

His business offers online ordering on the website: Paulys.ca and free delivery for the Windsor/Essex County area from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., seven days a week.

“With great selections at Pauly’s, if you want to feel good, look great and eat tasty treats, I have you covered,” states Konopaski.

With all the natural sweetness of coconut sprinkled on the outside, get ready for all the healthy ingredients in the middle . . . in these bite-sized vanilla coconut protein balls that also taste great! Photo courtesy of Paul Konopaski.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Pita Mania Restaurant 1050 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh, ON

By David Clark Photos courtesy of Mladen Remetic

chopped vegetables and chicken. Our sauces, soup — in particular our homemade Chicken Lemon Rice Soup — and even the Baklava, is created here from scratch. And our pita bread can only be found in a few places and is imported from the U.S. via our supplier.”

With only the finest of products used in preparation for your masterpiece, Pita Mania sources the ingredients for your wrap locally, across Windsor and Essex County, as much as possible.

“The chicken we serve is high quality fresh chicken and never frozen,” Remetic points out. “Each day we take a breast of chicken, remove all the skin and fat, leaving 100% whole white meat, we then cube, skewer, and marinate it for eight to 12 hours. Each chicken skewer we make is grilled fresh, on the spot, when it is ordered — it is never pre-cooked.”

F or 23 years, the Pita Mania Restaurant has been serving up the ultimate pita wrap, plus a whole lot more.

Pita Mania relocated from Lauzon Road in Windsor to Lesperance Road in Tecumseh’s Shaban Dental Plaza 11 years ago. Minor renovations have been completed, including

an updated interior with new equipment also moved on in.

According to Owner/Operator, Mladen Remetic: “Loaded with lots of healthy ingredients, we are unique as far as other restaurants are concerned. All of the food is prepared fresh daily, including hand-

However, it is the original Chicken Supreme, by far the bestseller at the shop, which is their claim to fame.

A true signature dish, it is wrapped in a grilled pita bread with hand-chopped lettuce, tomatoes and onions. It is served with their delicious homemade special sauce (Creamy Garlic).

The colourful Greek Salad at Pita Mania comes fully loaded with all the veggies you need for a serious health kick.

Pita Mania Owner/Operator, Mladen Remetic and his staff are ready to welcome you to their newly renovated storefront. New equipment has also been brought in to handle all your custom orders.

Not far behind, the Gyro Mania steps in as a personal take on the traditional Gyro, but with a few tweaks.

In addition to the Tzatziki sauce, their special sauce is also added — doubling up the fun. Feta can also be added on here or to any item you desire!

Another favourite add-on item are the spicy chick peas, but there are plenty of more choices as well.

Sauces for most of the dishes include a yellow sauce (Sweet Honey Mustard), spicy, golden, Tzatziki and of course, the house special sauce.

Popular sides are the crispy potato wedge fries and the Greek Salad.

From Pita Mania’s Greek family to yours, the popular Greek Salad is loaded with fresh romaine, local tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions and green peppers topped off with feta and kalamata olives and finished with the house oil and vinegar dressing.

Additional items on the menu include Chicken Fingers for the kids and a special dessert, the sweet and rich Baklava.

“Excellent customer service is also a hallmark at Pita Mania,” Remetic expresses. “We are extremely proud of the amazing staff, some of which have been here since the start. It has been a wonderful journey. The courteous staff take care of the needs of

our customers to ensure 100% satisfaction.”

The restaurant has a comfortable 24 seats available for those dining-in. In addition, take-out and delivery are options.

(Note: there is no charge on delivery for your order of eight or more.) For your convenience, online ordering is available on the website (see next column).

As for catering, offsite mainly, Pita Mania can accommodate eight to 500 at large company settings. You can select items from the menu and small changes can be made for your event if you require it.

“We take pride in every pita wrap that goes out and pay attention to details such as quality and consistency,” explains Remetic. “The community is very important to us as they’re responsible, along with our staff, for helping us set our roots in this community. We hope to still be around for another 23 years!”

For hours of operation and their menu, or to place an online order, visit: PitaMania.ca.

Get updates such as specials and new items on their social media page at: Facebook.com/PitaManiaRestaurant.

Up front and personal, the heralded original Chicken Supreme with wedge fries and yellow sauce (a Sweet Honey Mustard) is a dream made best at Pita Mania.

We All Play A Part In Building Up Black Owned Businesses

Eventhough the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) petitions began in 1978, the Canadian House of Commons took until 1995 to finally recognize February as Black History Month.

The observance is used to honour the legacy of Black Canadians and recognize their ongoing contributions to our communities today. (Note: to learn about the current theme for this year and to watch videos about Black history see: Canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/ campaigns/black-history-month.html).

Black owned businesses bring immense value to Windsor Essex, but may be difficult to find.

In 2020, after meeting weekly with “powerhouse Black female activists,” Maxine Ebegbuzie — who had just pivoted from her beauty business and put all of her resources into her marketing agency, Max Mobile Solutions — used her skills and network to launch Black Business Can Inc. (BBC), an online directory to promote and advance Black businesses found on: BlackBusinessOntario.ca.

“With the events of 2020, the harsh reality of racial inequality and anti-Black racism became apparent, globally,” remarks Ebegbuzie, BBC’s President and Founder. “We decided to take action and collect all Black entrepreneurs in the area and start building our economics.”

She adds: “I knew so much more needed to be done to assist in the closing of the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem gap.”

Now, after two successful years, in February 2023, Ebegbuzie is again encouraging the community to join the 28 day Buy Black Challenge by seeking out and supporting Black owned businesses (and building a habit that is continued year-round).

“It’s a way to show appreciation for the historical and ongoing contributions of African, Black, and Caribbean people in our region,” she believes.

Ebegbuzie continues by stating: “Making mindful purchases throughout the year to

support diverse businesses, helps strengthen our communities and supports economic progress for all. When a group of people is not able to reach their potential, the community suffers unquantifiable opportunity costs and the nation truly misses out. When all people are unhindered in taking up economic space, and equity is a mission all decision-makers uphold, success is all of ours.”

The best way to support a business? Make a purchase. And try to involve your family and friends to make it an experience!

When you cannot support a business with your dollars, you can still help with

exposure by using social media to like, share, and comment on posts from BBC and participating businesses.

The challenge is just a small part of what BBC is planning.

“Creating a supportive network, providing resources, assisting in getting businesses greater exposure, training, and partnerships that would aid in the removal of barriers to progress and expanded opportunities, are some of the items on BBC’s 2023 agenda,” Ebegbuzie explains.

To learn more about Black Business Can Inc, find new businesses, or to get your

Maxine Ebegbuzie is the President and Founder of Black Business Can Inc. She is also the owner of the marketing agency, Max Mobile Solutions. Sporting a special Buy Black Challenge t-shirt she is pictured inside the Mix Factory One Studios in Southfield, MI. Ebegbuzie works a lot in the entertainment industry to provide marketing solutions for those in the area recording at this studio. Photo courtesy of Desmond Travis.

business, service or organization listed, visit: BlackBusinessOntario.ca.

So are you ready to support local Black owned businesses that are associated with Black Business Can?

Here are some ideas where to start for February’s Buy Black Challenge . . .

Max Mobile Solutions Windsor/Detroit

In today’s market, if you want to maximize your online presence, you need a solid plan.

A website is a good place to start, but to increase your traffic and expand your social media audience you must look for a business that can provide a comprehensive outline of targets and how to reach them.

“Knowing how to put together a full-funnel marketing proposal and plan for success is what sets us apart,” says Maxine Ebegbuzie, CEO of Max Mobile Solutions (MMS), a fullservice, data-driven Internet marketing agency that works with clients across North America.

A graduate of the University of Windsor’s Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Education programs, Ebegbuzie focused on entrepreneurship and honed her marketing skills over the last 20 years, most recently while she built up her beauty business in the city.

With the forced closures of the pandemic, she decided to look at her strengths — and with a strong business background and experience with clients — she made the pivot to focus more on the tech, marketing, and public relations company she established in 2014.

Now her venture works with 20 employees and contractors to help take businesses to the next level. And while a lot of agencies might stick to social media, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), web design, and Pay-Per-Click advertising (PPC), MMS offers additional services like streaming TV, geofencing advertising (direct-to-mobile ads based on activities and location), programmatic advertising, and tech/software integration.

The agency works in many industries including education, cannabis, automotive, finance, entertainment, and cyber security and supports other marketing agencies as well.

In 2022, Ebegbuzie was recognized as the Tech Woman of the Year from WEtech Alliance’s Tech Awards, for her work in the industry, her contributions to the community, and her commitment to vital projects like training businesses to make their web platforms more inclusive.

Her passion and commitment go into every project that the company takes on.

Initially, Ebegbuzie meets with potential clients to go through a needs analysis and discovery, and then discuss their budget and goals. From there, her certified experts utilize state-of-the-art marketing software to assess the business and competitors to build optimal marketing campaign strategies.

Clients who sign on then benefit from an interactive live dashboard that tracks progress, as well as access to an agile project manager who constantly tracks success and makes improvements on-the-fly (instead of waiting to check in monthly). The specialists (and their knowledge) are the reason that MMS can brag about having 98% of their clients rank for several keywords on the first page of search engines within the first year.

To learn more about the full list of services offered by the tech marketing and public relations company, refer to: Max-MobileSolutions.ca.

7ByRaz African Fashion & Accessories Inc.

materials like Kenyan textiles and beads.

Growing up, Mwondha was a reluctant helper with her grandmother’s sewing projects. She had to cut out patterns, take measurements, and help sew pillowcases and hem curtains. She quickly realized sewing was a talent that she was thankful for.

7654

Tecumseh Road East, Tecumseh Mall, Windsor

A recent addition to Tecumseh Mall is the vibrant store that belongs to Razia Mwondha, Owner of 7ByRaz African Fashion & Accessories Inc.

The store specializes in a range of African-inspired items, including clothing and accessories handcrafted in Kenya, as well as items that seamstress and jewellery maker Mwondha creates from

Mwondha moved to Canada in 2001 and earned a degree in education, but could not find a job. Eventually she found work in factories and nursing homes, but sewing was still part of her dream.

7ByRaz originally operated online from 2019 to 2020, but with the pandemic, Mwondha saw a steep decline in online sales. Still, she hoped to open a storefront to reach a wider audience and the pandemic had a flipside: rents and vacancies were lower.

After an initial run at her first location at the beginning of 2022, Mwondha was hit

7ByRaz African Fashion & Accessories in Tecumseh Mall features items made in Canada and Kenya, the native land of its owner, Razia Mwondha. At her shop, there is something for all, no matter what the temperature is outside in our region or anywhere in the world! Proof of this can be seen with the cotton beach wear the mannequin displays that is ideal for those heading south on vacation this winter. Photo by Rod Denis.

hard by a break-in. She decided to move to the mall in November; the rent was almost double, but she wanted a fresh start that felt safer and had more foot traffic. She’s been pleased with the move so far.

“They see something they like and they come in,” Mwondha comments.

She is happy to have such a variety of goods created by skilled artists in a fair trade environment. Products include hyacinth and sisal baskets, mirrors, jewellery, purses, dog collars, hair accessories, drums, blankets, fabric, and a full line of clothing.

One of her most popular items is the Kitenge bomber jacket, a common style, but using vibrant prints with a velvet lining for life in Canada.

Mwondha also carries brown skin dolls with hair that can be brushed and braided.

“Growing up in Kenya we didn’t have dolls that looked like me,” she points out. “It’s important for me to have dolls that look like most kids.”

As a new business owner, Mwondha says one of the barriers she faced was securing financing. She visited several banks that wanted her to already have money to get a loan.

Her advice for new business owners is to be prepared to not have much in the beginning, but stay positive.

“Don’t give up — smile,” encourages Mwondha. “If you believe in what you are doing, you can do it.”

When visiting her store she suggests customers try things on without hesitating about the colours and prints.

“Wear whatever you want to wear,” she says. “We like when people embrace our culture respectfully.”

To shop the latest creations online, link to their social media pages and find out what the future holds for the store (like Kenyan snacks!), check: 7ByRaz.com.

Black Magic Culinary Creations Home Based In Windsor

Philippe Octavien was born in the Bahamas to Haitian parents and eventually moved to Florida. His aunt taught him to cook and he was surrounded by culinary influences, so he began to explore what could be done with food.

In 2006, he moved to Canada and enrolled at St. Clair College in the Culinary Arts program. He worked in area restaurants and moved to New Brunswick where he spent two years refining his skills and learning more about event planning and catering.

Octavien returned to Windsor and was working at a local restaurant, however, the hospitality industry has long hours and he wanted to spend more time with his wife and new son. So, he took a job as a chef at

a long-term care home, but always felt that something was missing.

In 2014, his wife suggested he go into business for himself, putting his creativity and island influences into dishes for new audiences; Black Magic Culinary Creations was launched.

The catering business is a one-man operation with Octavien as Chef and Owner.

He does cooking classes, weddings, popup events, and private catering parties with three to seven course meals. His menus are customized, based on what kind of experience the client has in mind.

Octavien — who prefers that you just call him Phil — enjoys pushing boundaries, looking for new ways to express himself through food, and working on collaborations like holding pop-ups at Walkerville Brewery, or providing his jerk chicken as a main ingredient for a special pierogi from Little Foot Foods.

“I enjoy cooking and it’s fun no matter how hard I’m working,” Octavien mentions.

With rising food prices, Octavien indicates one of his current challenges is being questioned about his rates. However, he knows what he offers is unique and he stands behind his work.

His advice to other business owners stems from that experience: “Be yourself and most importantly, be true to yourself and know your worth.”

“Taste The Magic” is the catch phrase Chef Philippe Octavien uses to describe his home based Black Magic Culinary Creations catering company. He combines fresh and local ingredients with ingenuity; creativity, passion, skill, and most importantly, love. Octavien proudly shows our photographer (and our readers too!) a Warm Winter Vegetable Salad made with a Cauliflower Medley, Rainbow Carrots, Golden Beets, Sweet Potato Coulis, Radishes and Maple White Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Photo by Rod Denis.

To see menu ideas, get free recipes, and learn about the Black Magic Supper Club (a pop-up mystery dining experience), go to: BlackMagicCulinaryCreations.ca.

Mr. Kersey’s Karate School Ltd.

3079 Forest Glade Drive, Windsor

In 1973, Lamon Kersey began teaching karate classes at local community centres in his spare time. He was employed at an automotive manufacturer, but the layoffs started increasing, so in 1982, when Kersey realized there was enough interest in his classes, he started his own dojo.

“I really worked hard at it,” says Kersey, Owner of Mr. Kersey’s Karate School and the recipient of the 2019 Biz X Award for Kickin’ Karate Kid School.

He operates the business with his wife and Program Director, Anne Marie. Two fulltime and six part-time instructors round out the staff, who work tirelessly to motivate the community, especially children.

Kersey’s love of the sport and inspiring youth is evident in the school’s focus on discipline, inclusion, and mental health. He says that is what sets the school apart. Students can even earn badges for achievements in discipline, teamwork, and family life.

“There’s more to it than kicking and punching,” Kersey notes. “We really push

life skills like respect and focus. Parents notice the difference.”

Enrollment was affected by the pandemic due to frequent shutdowns, and students were just tired from being online all day so they didn’t want to do an online karate class.

Kersey is thankful that he was able to use technology to connect with others in his field across North America and share ideas to inspire members. The new platform also allowed him to answer a call from a local nursing home to offer a six-week karate course for seniors. It’s something he wants

to keep pursuing as he works to rebuild his membership.

Working on new business ideas and continuous learning is vital to the success of Kersey’s business.

“Keep studying and go out of your way to learn more about your industry,” he advises. “I travelled a lot and studied a lot and I’m still learning.”

To read more about the school and programs offered for adults and children (three years and up), log on to: MrKerseyKarate.com.

Lamon Kersey, Owner of Mr. Kersey’s Karate School is photographed in action instructing his students (from left): Jaycee Harrison, Sophie Paiva and Ava Hart, on a basic front karate kick. Photo by Rod Denis.

Owens began his career as a DJ 48 years ago at the age of 15, and when his wife joined him in 2002, they formed their own company offering DJ services, lighting, interactive dances, singing, and celebrity impersonations.

Along with weddings, banquets, galas, and graduations, Owens also can be hired for private parties and is the house DJ for Johnny Shotz in Tecumseh. His career has allowed him to work across North America and meet celebrities like Howie Mandel and Sinbad.

The pandemic was difficult for the whole event industry and Owens had to close down his limousine service, but luckily things seem to be bouncing back and he’s busy booking DJ gigs again. And just like he keeps the party energized, Owens wants to encourage others as they pursue their own business ideas.

“Never give up, on your dreams,” Kim states. “Keep going. As you’re working hard, be patient . . . your reward will come.”

Owens Entertainment & Company

Event Based In Windsor Essex

Event planners know that music matters for a great party.

Finding a DJ who plays good tunes and has great energy is important — and that’s what you get when you hire Kim and Sandra

Owens

, Owners of Owens Entertainment &

Company.

Music and entertainment have always been a part of Kim Owens’ life. His father was one of the members of The Contours, a popular sixties group that had a big hit with “Do you love me”.

To make your next party memorable and to find further details about the services the business offers, visit the website: OwensAndCompany.ca.

Support The Buy Black Challenge Every Chance You Can

Along with the companies highlighted above, there are about 150 more businesses

Thank You Thank You Thank You Volunteers

Kim Owens of Owens Entertainment & Company stands with newlyweds Michael and Leanne (last names withheld) at an area facility. The couple were thrilled with the DJ services he provided. From weddings to banquets, galas, graduations and more, Kim and his wife Sandra, play “music to move you” (and your guests)! Photo courtesy of Owens Entertainment & Company.

listed on the Black Business Can (BBC) website — BlackBusinessOntario.ca — including Windsor restaurants like Jubba (serving Somalian cuisine at 2000 Wyandotte Street West), Zule Eats (2760 Howard Avenue), Roti Bowl & Soul (359 Ouellette Avenue) and World Marathon Ethiopian Restaurant (60 University Avenue West).

There are also plenty of servicedbased Black businesses, such as CQ’s Olde Riverside Barber Shop (5774 Wyandotte Street East), Entice Salon (311 Wyandotte Street East), Totally Baked (TotallyBakedGoods.ca, a 2022 Biz X Award Winner) and NorthStar Cheer, a Windsor based cheerleading company for youth and adults.

You can buy Black each day in February during the Buy Black Challenge, take a photo of your purchases, and post them on social media using the hashtag #BlackBusinessCan.

You can also read daily business highlights on: Facebook.com/blackbusinesscan and: Instagram.com/blackbusinesscan.

On other days in the year, interact with related posts and share as many businesses as you can with coworkers, friends, and family.

Black History Month is not just about what has happened in the past, and recognizing current contributions of Black individuals, it’s also about being thoughtful about what

Another local company involved with Black Business Can that you may choose to support this February, and throughout the year, is the World Marathon Ethiopian Restaurant, 60 University Avenue West in downtown Windsor. Owner Abdo Alwan offers a combination of pungent and warm spices from all over Ethiopia to create dishes of distinctive flavours. Here he holds up a Vegetarian Combo with Shiro Wat (ground pea cooked with onion, tomatoes); Aziffa (cooked green lentil mixed with onions, green chilies) and At-Kelt Wat (carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic cooked in turmeric and Marathon spices). It is served with Injera,

we can do to build a better future to create equity for all Canadians.

“Make this something you care about as well,” expresses Maxine Ebegbuzie, BBC’s President and Founder.

Ebegbuzie adds: “It’s important that we raise these issues and rally the community together. It demonstrates that we are all fighting as a community, fighting for equity. This is a fight for all of us.”

the traditional bread of Ethiopia. Photo by Rod Denis.

The Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network

Inthe last month of 2022 the public launch of the Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network (SWOBEN) took place in Hamilton on December 5 and in Windsor on December 6, with over 200 attendees present.

This new initiative brings together a consortium of partners, led by Empowerment Squared, to offer a dynamic resource for Black business owners, entrepreneurs, and non-profit leaders in Southwestern Ontario.

SWOBEN has partnered with WEtech Alliance to provide services in the Windsor Essex region and is funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

The Purpose Of SWOBEN

This initiative seeks to address the following identified needs . . .

Scarcity of data about Black entrepreneurs, nuances about the Black community, challenges faced, and their significant contributions to the Canadian economy

Skills for marketing, communications, advertising, and promotion

Personal development and mentorship opportunities

Difficulties in securing and qualifying for capital

Who Can Participate?

Requirements for acceptance into the SWOBEN initiative are as follows . . .

The individual must identify as a Black person (Black Canadian, African, Caribbean descent, etc.) living within southwestern Ontario

Alignment with the stated goal and objectives of SWOBEN in assisting Black professionals and entrepreneurs

Within the SWOBEN, there is a Black Business Development Program, which offers entrepreneurs a hybrid, wraparound four month (16 weeks) experience, which includes business skills training, personalized assessments of existing businesses, and concepts, matching with professional services, mentorship, and opportunities for businesses to be profiled.

Idea-stage founders would have access to tailored business courses that will help improve their mindset about entrepreneurship.

By Colin Grimmond

Growth businesses would be given access to resources that will help them tackle business challenges and assigned to mentors and business advisors for acceleration.

Entrepreneurs must apply and be accepted into the program.

Four Cohorts Available

The Black Business Development Program will be offered two times in 2023 and two times in 2024 . . .

Cohort 1: February 18, 2023 to May 2023

Cohort 2: August to November 2023

Cohort 3: February to May 2024

Cohort 4: August to November 2024

The program includes seminars and workshops in a number of topics including Investing, Franchising, Financial Literacy, Business Branding, Pitching, Team Building, etc. Also, opportunities will be provided for expert business advisors to answer questions related to business needs for SWOBEN entrepreneurs.

What’s Next?

Other additional events and supports include . . .

Various and ongoing networking events (Orientation Day, DEMO Day, Pitch Day, Graduation Day)

Job Fair Event: Professionals Meet & Greet with employers

Mentorship Program: Matching mentors with seasoned entrepreneurs from similar industry sectors and backgrounds

Digital Hub: Promotional and marketing platform to showcase the success of SWOBEN entrepreneurs

For more information, visit either of the following websites: SWOBEN.ca or WEtech-Alliance.com/swoben. Tech Bytes is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com). The columnist for this edition, Colin Grimmond, is the Coordinator, Professional Skills and Entrepreneurship for Empowerment Squared. He is responsible for the program coordination in the Windsor and Essex County region of the Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network. In his role, he oversees the development and delivery of various programs and services to Black entrepreneurs, including workshops, events and opportunities.

Looking Into The Mirror . . . A Unique Opportunity To Reflect On Our Lives, Decisions And Feelings

Have you ever thought back to a time in your life and wondered why you did something? Or perhaps, why you didn’t do something?

If your reflection could speak, what would it say? We can’t go back in time, but we can peer through the looking glass and learn from our experiences

Windsor based author Garnet Thompson designed Looking into the Mirror: Messages from the Authentic Self to the Inauthentic Self, to equip and liberate readers for the pursuit of authentic lives.

Some people tend to exist behind masks, hiding their true selves in favour of playing a role that pleases others or gets them accepted.

Looking into the Mirror is a book of messages from the hidden authentic self to the inauthentic self presented to the world. The design of the messages and stories, interspersed with space to reflect, brings the authentic self to the surface and nurtures a stronger mindset for success in relationships, goals, and choices.

With messages such as “You be you and that will serve everyone best,” Thompson shows that being “saintly” isn’t necessary, only being true to oneself will bring freedom.

Following each message is the space to reflect on it with any thoughts that come to mind.

Looking into the Mirror is Thompson’s collection of life lessons and personal stories to free people from the urge to appear a certain way to others and to give them access to the true selves they try to hide.

Thompson’s unorthodox upbringing as an immigrant from Jamaica, raised primarily by his grandmother, gave him a unique set of life lessons and experiences.

Garnet Thompson is a local author living in Belle River for the past eight years. His third book, Looking into the Mirror is on track for release mid-February. Photo courtesy of the author.

He began the search for his father when he was 23 and found him four years later.

The experience of meeting him for the first time at age 27 had a profound effect on Thompson’s perspective.

Now a father himself, he strives to give his children the tools to be confident in themselves.

“Confidence in yourself comes from being you!” expresses Thompson.

His children are a large inspiration for all his books, including Looking into the Mirror, 20/20 Vision Dreams, and a children’s book, Why the Bricklayer Smiles

Looking into the Mirror is available locally at Storytellers Bookstore (1473 Ottawa Street in Windsor where it will be launched at an event on February 19, 2023); on the author’s website and also through Amazon and other leading online book retailers.

If you would like to connect with the author, please visit: GarnetThompson.com.

By Rebecca Wright

Bethany Russell . . . Hits The Right Note In The Music Biz

Bethany Russell her two businesses are a natural fit as both support her passions — music and the performing arts.

Russell, who plays and teaches piano, Brava Academy of Music and the Performing Arts in 2018 (refer online to: BravaAcademyOfMusic.ca).

She started The Wedding Belles (BravaAcademyOfMusic.ca/the-weddingbelles) in January 2022 with business partner Kelsey McCann — the violinist in their piano/violin duo.

Located at 2591 Howard Avenue in Windsor, Brava Academy offers private and group lessons in music, art, acting and dance.

“We have a wonderful team of highly qualified music, art, dance and drama instructors who lead classes on a weekly basis for our growing student base,” Russell indicates.

She decided to start Brava Academy after being a private piano teacher from her home for many years and eventually realizing she needed a larger studio space to accommodate her students.

“One of the things I love the most about Brava Academy is how different it is from

come to us to learn a new skill and begin adding music to their life in a way that suits

As for her more recent start-up, The Wedding Belles entails Russell and McCann performing at various venues in Windsor Essex and surrounding areas for wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours and select events.

“The Wedding Belles came about when Kelsey and I began receiving a few requests to play weddings together,” Russell explains.

According to Russell, the business is completely unique as it is the only piano and violin duo actively booking weddings in

“For couples looking for string and piano music for their wedding, we are an incredible option to bring that musical elegance to their special day,” she expresses.

When taking on new bookings, Russell points out she and her partner first meet with the couple for a consultation to learn more about them. During this meeting they ask key questions to help curate a musical plan for the couple’s ceremony and cocktail hour.

“We love working with couples who know and value the impact that intentional music can have on their big day,” Russell exclaims.

She is proud to be a part of Black Business Can, which she describes as “an organization that elevates Black voices and businesses in our community” that shines a light on stellar Black owned businesses in the area. (See the cover story of this issue)

“Brava Academy is thrilled to be featured in this directory, alongside many other wonderful local businesses and organizations,” she comments.

Being a young woman in business has been an empowering experience for Russell.

“I opened Brava Academy at the age of 22, and for many years I kept my age as private as possible for fear that people would not take me seriously,” she admits. “It has been one of the most beautiful experiences for me to embody my belief in what women are capable of out loud, regardless of our age.”

Russell invites any woman interested in stepping into entrepreneurship to consider the positive effect they could have in other people’s lives as a result of following their passion and dreams.

“That in and of itself is a wonderful reason to start today!” she expresses.

Local pianist Bethany Russell loves to teach and perform both instrumental factors behind her two businesses. Photo courtesy of Haley Mai Photography.

Faith And Mission Defined A Depth Of Purpose

By Andrea Grimes

Reflecting upon our community’s diverse history, there are chapters dedicated to the struggles of many African American refugees throughout the southern United States, who turned their backs on oppression (the only life they ever knew).

Giving up on that premise just wasn’t an option!

Driven by the strength of faith, many families followed the North Star along the Underground Railway to their freedom destination in Windsor, Ontario. As settlers, many families contributed to the growth of our community, while many other refugees were captured and returned to plantation owners, leaving those children arriving in Windsor orphaned.

Moved by devotion for pastoral care, Reverend Dean Wagner, (Windsor’s first pastor of St. Alphonsus Roman Catholic Parish) launched a fundraising “letter” campaign appealing for donations to build an orphanage and school within his parish.

Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital (HDGH) archives confirm: “One of these letters was delivered to Mother Justine Bonneau, Superior of the Religious Hospitallers of St. Joseph (RHSJ) in Montreal. Mother Bonneau responded to the letter with a donation of $2.50 and an offer to help if consideration would be given to building a hospital. Wagner wasted no time responding to this request and on 14 September, 1888, Mother Josephine Paquet and Sisters Josephine Lamoureux, Philomena Carriere, Josephine Boucher and Victoire Caron arrived in Windsor.”

Wagner’s appeal for funding was met with resounding success!

Hospital archives indicate: “Construction of Hôtel-Dieu began 10 October 1888. The cornerstone of the hospital was laid and blessed 29 November 1888. Hôtel-Dieu officially opened its doors on 13 February 1890.”

Hospital archives further note “Reverend Wagner’s orphanage and day school opened in the spring of 1890 and was built next to the hospital. Unfortunately, the mission did not last due in large part to irregular attendance. On 3 March 1893, the day school was closed and the orphanage was slowly phased out, closing in March 1909.”

“My great uncles, James W. Lockman

and Jerome Lockman were students of a Catholic Mission school founded by Reverend Wagner and the Sisters of the Hospitallers of Saint Joseph in 1888,” says Barbara Porter, Vice President of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum (277 King Street; AmherstburgFreedom.org) and retired Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital nurse. “They were African Canadian Veterans who served with the No. 2 Construction Battalion in WWI. Returning to Windsor, Uncle Jerome entered the construction trade as a plasterer and Uncle James was employed with the City of Windsor in the Public Works Department.”

Wagner’s lifelong commitment advocating for the furtherance of society is a milestone chapter of Windsor’s history.

“HDGH is honoured to have Father Wagner as part of our organization’s history and we celebrated his memory on September 19, 2013 at the former and original site of Hôtel-Dieu Hospital on Ouellette Avenue, with the installation and dedication of a beautiful bench in his name,” says Bill Marra, President and CEO of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. “We remember and celebrate our long history, which began with Reverend Dean Wagner, through our interactive Heritage Wall, which is proudly on display for all to see, and especially in the values we hold and ways we change the lives of our patients and clients each day.”

Preserving Windsor’s history is central to sustaining the foundation of our diverse heritage. As such, memorial benches (whether placed in a public space or in gardens) serve to connect the past to the present with a measure of distinctiveness.

“Ornamental benches not only hold memories of a passing of time, they can build the presence of a signature garden instilling ‘a little of ourselves’ by design . . . all year round,” says Randy Ruggaber, Owner of Daniher Topsoil (5355 Manning Road, Maidstone; DaniherTopsoil.com).

As part of their services the company operates a retail garden centre featuring ornamental benches, statues, memorial markers and patio/pond/garden accessories.

He adds: “With over 48 years in business, our company takes great pride in being committed to providing unsurpassed customer service by being flexible to our customer needs.”

To quote the author Robert Brault: “If you’ve never experienced the joy of accomplishing more than you can imagine, plant a garden.”

As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Governor General’s Medal, for her volunteer service to Veterans and a number of non-profit organizations supporting Windsor’s military families’ network.

In this original photo, Father Wagner is shown with students of the Catholic Mission School, circa 1888. Photo courtesy of the Diocese of London Archives.

Hiring A Professional Contractor Is A Great First Step

By Dave Halliday Photos courtesy of RaheemCo.

Whohasn’t sat in their home looking around and thinking about all the changes they would like to make?

You can knock out a wall, build an addition, add windows for natural light . . . the ideas are always flowing, but they don’t always get going — do they?

Typically, the thing holding your internal and exterior architectural visions back is that you are not qualified, equipped, or experienced in the techniques required to get the job done. Even the most skilled and equipped of the Do It Yourself individuals out there find themselves limited by time, resources, and energy.

Any of the factors noted could be holding you back from creating the living space that you dream of. We are here to assure you that there is a solution. Hiring a qualified professional local contractor can be the first step to achieving your vision.

We at Biz X were fortunate enough to sit down with one such contractor to sort through the options and services they provide. RaheemCo. (RaheemCo.ca) located at 2500 Central Avenue in Windsor was launched nine months ago and they have been working hard to service the needs of their local clientele ever since. Already the company has developed an association with local businesses such as Ambassador Property Contractors and Property Hunters

Raheem Younes the Founder, Owner, and President of RaheemCo. — was gracious enough to share some of the insight he has garnered during his five years in the field. He was the ideal choice for our column in this February edition, which honours Black History Month and entrepreneurs, as he is a proud Black owned business operator.

Asking our first question, we were surprised by the diverse list provided. What services do you offer? “It is extensive,” replies an enthusiastic Younes taking a deep breath. “Lot clearing, demolition, excavation, tree removal, renovation, drywall, mudding, taping, sanding, painting, flooring, framing, insulation, landscaping, lawn care, snow removal, cleaning, organizing, concrete, interlocking brick, foundations, property management, home development, interior and exterior design, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.”

Is everything you’ve noted in-house, or do you have sub-contractors you use as well? “Everything is in-house except for the utilities,” indicates Younes adding, “I would like to eventually hire my own plumbers, electricians, and HVAC team.”

We see that you provide services for both residential and industrial clientele. Why is RaheemCo. a good fit for residential clients? “We like to provide a very reasonable rate for residential customers, and we offer a wide variety of discounts for returning customers,” he notes. “We understand not everything is achievable from a budgetary perspective and if something may be a bit out of budget, we can suggest other options that may be relatable.”

Do you provide any advice or input during the planning stages of a proposed project? “Absolutely, if anything is necessary to be completed along the way for better improvements it is recommended and suggested,” states Younes. “Planning a project will consist of a thorough breakdown of steps involved, identifying problems we may run into or things that may need to be upgraded along the way to meet code.”

What are the benefits of utilizing a fully accredited contractor as opposed to the “Handyman”? “Professional quality of work will be a given,” informs Younes adding, “Unlike most handymen, we are fully insured with liability insurance, and WSIB.”

We understand you now also have cleaning services. “Yes, we offer both cleaning and organizing services and building renovation clean-up services,” he indicates. “Whether you need your

Raheem Younes, Owner of RaheemCo. is pictured on a job site, clearing trees off a residential lot. His company can help with tree removal, trimming, and even planting trees and shrubs for your yard.

bathroom tidied or a bathroom renovation cleaned, swept, mopped, and dusted, we now provide all of those services.” What would you say are the essential components to successfully satisfying your clients? “Knowing that they have hired a responsible, reliable company puts a customer at ease knowing that the job is getting done in a timely fashion, at a reasonable price, and without the thought of something going wrong,” points out Younes. “A customer being confident in the company they choose to do the work only makes everyone’s life easier.”

Do you offer any follow up services upon completion of a project? “Yes,” replies Younes, concluding “Aside from customer satisfaction, a returning customer is what we do truly desire. Someone coming back with another project because they were happy and satisfied with previous work is one of the best compliments, next to the customer saying ‘good job’ and ‘thank you’!”

So, we have decided that the message here is you can basically achieve whatever you really desire when it comes to your living space.

The suggestion is that you don’t have to become a master builder, nor do you have to sacrifice your time and enjoyment of life to realize this achievement.

Yes, there are those times when you complete one of your home projects on your own and enjoy that feeling of accomplishment, but there is also value and peace of mind involved in hiring a qualified, fully equipped, professional contractor for your next big project.

What a great idea! This is probably the perfect way to enjoy your home rather than just always working on it. Think about it.

Before: (Left) As you can see these steps are falling apart at this Windsor home. The surface wood is rotting from weathering and use. After: (Right) New wood has been applied by RaheemCo. with the same step dimensions, preventing readjustment to a new step! Disaster averted, LOL!

Celebrate The Past And Empower The Present For A Better Future For All

Every February, people across the country celebrate the achievements of Black Canadians whose perseverance, courage and persistence help shape the world we live in today.

The 2023 theme for Black History Month in Canada is Ours to Tell. This means sharing the many stories of success, sacrifice and triumph of Black individuals over the years who have left their mark on history.

“I actually don’t like the term ‘Black History’ because what we call ‘Black History’ is a very important part of history in general, and therefore shouldn’t be segregated or separated from what is generally referred

to as history,” comments Leslie McCurdy, Chair of the Black Council of WindsorEssex (see: BlackCouncilWindsorEssex.ca). “All history should be more inclusive to include the Native people who inhabited this land originally, the African people who developed it, plus all the other people from around the world that helped build this society. Truth about history can help us move forward with a clear vision, which means we need to recognize the traumas and ills of society to move on from it. If we only tell stories from a white-maleheteronormative perspective, we will never learn from history and it’s doomed to repeat itself.”

There are many Black heroes from the past whose determination, courage, and success stories need to be shared with young learners. However, history wasn’t all pretty! The more children of all races learn about what really happened in history, the more they will understand the past injustices and be more likely to change the future.

To help celebrate Black History Month, we feature several organizations in Windsor and Essex County that support the Black community and celebrate their culture.

We also let you know about local events to attend with your family in February so everyone can learn about the contributions Black Canadians have made to our society.

Participants of the Black Kids In Action Performing Art Group are shown in the accompanying photo taken in July 2021 during the Ride For Life, a partnership with Bike WindsorEssex. The group (parents and guardians included) starts at a point and rides to another point, enjoys an ice cream treat and then a sit down happens so historical stories of the past can be shared. Photo courtesy of Daniels Photography.

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

~ Harriet Tubman

Get Empowered By The Black Youth Empowerment Program

Located at 3905 Seminole Street in Windsor, the Black Youth Empowerment Program (BYEP) is a non-profit organization funded by the Ontario Trillium Federation’s Youth Opportunities Fund

It offers youth in Windsor/Essex County, aged 12 to 19, an opportunity to participate in leadership workshops on racism, oppression, bullying and entrepreneurship.

They also host an end of year summit for all youth that have participated in the program, and for new youth as well.

“We empower Black and racialized youth by creating awareness and education on racism and oppression, re-directing focus on positivity and productivity, investing in the youth and the community to strengthen, connect, and unite the Black and racialized youth,” states Tayshaun Dao and Lladaneyah Gayle, who became Co-Founders of BYEP in 2018. “Through experiential learning, skill-building and leadership development opportunities, the youth will be able to create their own project and work with local organizations to address racism in their communities. They will learn to facilitate these activities for use in local schools as well.”

BYEP has recently been awarded additional funding by Employment and Social Development Canada to renovate their space to meet the needs of their youth via virtual workshops and new activities.

“Black History Month is important to celebrate because it is when we commemorate the past and reflect on the difficulties and challenges Black people have faced throughout history,” Dao and Gayle express. “We can celebrate all the accomplishments, discoveries, and innovations of people of African and Caribbean descent, as well as highlight the fact that without the successes by Black politicians, civil rights activists, inventors and many others, we wouldn’t be where we are today. It also gives youth and adults

the opportunity to learn more about Black history and to gain knowledge on diversity and inclusion.”

The program is free, so if you’re interested, you can find more on their social media page: Facebook.com/byepwindsor.

In the near future the website: BYEPWindsor.com is slated to be up and running. Be sure to check it out as well!

Build Family Connections With Family Fuse

Launched in 2019, Family Fuse offers free workshops and coaching to Black parents, guardians and caregivers interested in strengthening the bond between themselves and their children, participating in their children’s education, increasing their confidence in navigating the school system, increasing knowledge, gaining tools to provide better support for their children, accessing information independently, and advocacy.

“Family Fuse supports Black parents, guardians and caregivers who want to help their school-aged children to excel in all areas of education and in life in general,” says Christie Nelson, Program Manager of Family Fuse. “We work together with parents to raise equity and provide valuable insight into how their children can be encouraged by parent involvement, starting in elementary school, through college and university, or as entrepreneurs.”

Located at 3735 King Street inside the Sandwich Teen Action Group, Family Fuse and their team of three employees and two volunteers, partner with many local organizations in the region, including Providence CSC, Windsor Family Homes & Community Partnership, WindsorEssex Children’s Aid Society, Family Services Windsor-Essex, Sandwich Teen Action Group, Rapha Youth Outreach Services, Contact North and University of Windsor Career Development and

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum and Nazrey African Methodist Episcopal Church, is a curated archive that preserves and shares Amherstburg’s stories of the Underground Railroad and the compassion and solidarity it took to make this network possible. Amherstburg meant freedom as the Canadian destination for many Blacks escaping enslavement in the U.S. On the museum site is a log cabin (pictured) once lived in by George Taylor (and his family), a former enslaved man from Kentucky. It represents a typical home from the early 1800s. Photo by Rod Denis.

Experiential Learning alongside The Athletics and Recreation Department.

According to Nelson: “It is important to celebrate Black History Month to recognize diversity, to commemorate the past, to reflect, and to learn about the difficulties faced by Black people. It helps people realize there is more to Black history than slavery, which is essential to illustrating that Black history is balanced. That is why it is necessary to recognize the success stories and the positive contributions to the world that Black people have made — from kings and queens to pharmacists, inventors, doctors, nurses, scientists, astronauts, entrepreneurs and more.”

In her professional opinion she feels that education is not only the key to the success for the Black community, but for everyone.

“The more we understand one another, the more we should respect one another,” she states. “This is key to creating inclusive communities that we all want to love, work, play and raise our children in.”

To see upcoming dates of workshops and events, visit: FamilyFuse.ca.

It’s Show Time With Black Kids In Action Performing Art Group

Started in February 2019, Black Kids In Action (BKIA) Performing Art Group, is a not-for-profit organization consisting of seven people.

The people behind BKIA are dedicated and committed to enhancing the well-being of Black youth in Windsor and Essex County through the three Ds of art: Dance, Drama and Dialogue. This allows them to bring their rich cultural heritage into practice.

Located at 1168 Drouillard Road, Unit 1 in Windsor, BKIA is hopes to inspire Black children aged six to 18 by educating them to be creative. This helps develop their talents and skills through mentorship and learning opportunities that are rooted in Black history, which in turn both helps promote diversity and brings out their greatest potential.

“As a Black organization, we focus our attention on our rich cultural heritage,

THE PARENTING BIZ

At the riverfront, the Family Fuse team from left are: Makeda Cole, Danielle Parent, Yohance Henry, Sabrina Wright, Christie Nelson, Clarese Carter, Salem Berhane, Josh Canty, Carmen Carter, and Latosha Cole. The photo was used for their 2021 Unity In Community campaign aimed at creating a greater sense of unity through allies and community partners to build relationships, empower, educate and support those interested in breaking down barriers to success, which are experienced by some members of the Black community. Photo courtesy of Olivia

whereby we commemorate the past to understand, reflect and learn about the difficulties faced by Black people, which gives us the opportunity to celebrate all the achievements, discoveries and inventions accomplished by Black people,” says Oluwatosin Akinbinu, BKIA Executive Director. She adds, “February is a month to highlight those success stores that have made an impact and shaped the world. It’s also important to celebrate Black History Month because of how it promotes and celebrates diversity, which brings awareness to the idea that we are all diverse and we all contribute to something bigger than us.”

In honour of this special month, BKIA is working on a production titled, How Did We Get Here?

“We pick up our stories from our journey, our experiences and our struggles,” Akinbinu

explains. “We relate them to the histories of the past and try to correlate them with what is happening in the present. It’s a stage production that tells how the youth struggle to understand; despite the many achievements of Black people their voices are still not heard. They are real life stories.”

Akinbinu goes on to tell Biz X they want everyone to come and see the production because many youth do not have a voice outside of it.

“The youth never get a chance to speak,” she believes. “They are never seen or heard and their voices are stolen because they are tagged as trouble. We want to encourage the community to come and hear from them as they express what life has been like for them.”

The production of How Did We Get Here will be performed at the Capitol Theatre on February 24 at 7 p.m. For $35 tickets you can email: bkiayouths2019@gmail.com or send a message through their website: BKIA.ca. Tickets are $40 at the door.

A Blast From The Past At The Amherstburg Freedom Museum

Founded by Betty Simpson and Melvin “Mac” Simpson in 1975 to promote the rich heritage of African Canadians, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum (previously known as the North American Black Historical Museum until 2015) is a community-based, non-profit museum located at 277 King Street in Amherstburg.

It tells the story of African-Canadians’ history and contributions by presenting artifacts that educate and inspire.

“The location of the museum is key,” notes Mary-Katherine Whelan, Curator and Administrator of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum (AFM). “Amherstburg meant freedom, as the Canadian destination for many freedom seekers escaping slavery in the United States.”

Also included in the museum complex are the Nazrey African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church — a national historic site and stop on the Underground Railroad, and the Taylor Log Cabin — home of George Taylor, a formerly enslaved man and his family.

The AFM offers tours through their historic buildings, as well as programs to learn about this rich and diverse history.

In addition to sharing Amherstburg’s stories of the Underground Railroad, and the compassion and solidarity it took to make this network possible, the museum collects, protects, interprets, researches, educates about and exhibits a collection of artifacts of historical and cultural value.

These are on display in their permanent gallery in order to illustrate the journey

Filipov.

Oluwatosin Akinbinu, Executive Director of Black Kids In Action Performing Art Group is committed to simultaneously developing young talent and promoting diversity in Windsor and Essex County. Photo courtesy of Daniels Photography.

Freedom Seekers made from enslavement to freedom in Canada, as well as the legacy of those descendants who built their lives in the region.

“It’s important to recognize Canada’s rich Black history, not just during February, but all year round,” says Whelan. “Last year, the national Black History Month theme was ‘February and Forever: Celebrating Black History Today and Every Day’. We echo that theme and encourage everyone to celebrate this significant history all year round because Black history does not just happen during the month of February; it is every day and in all aspects of Canada’s history.”

AFM is excited to partner with the River

THE PARENTING BIZ

Cole is a Canadian journalist, activist, broadcaster and author of the #1 nationally best-selling book, The Skin We’re In: A Year of Black Resistance and Power. Registration is free via: Eventbrite.ca/e/desmond-colea-celebration-of-black-history-monthtickets-514145913267.

On February 5 at 1 p.m. they have free Story Time at the River Bookshop with Cari-Lynn Ristic, the museum’s Board Director.

Bookshop in 2023 to offer a special weeks worth of programming from February 3 to 9 as a celebration of Black History Month, Looking Forward from the Past.

Highlights include Celebrating Black Voices: The Chevalier de St. Georges concert featuring the Windsor Symphony Orchestra on February 3 at 7 p.m. at the Nazrey A.M.E. Church. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased on: AmherstburgFreedom.org or in person at the museum.

To register for the following free events, see: RiverBookshop.com/pages/events.

On February 4 at 1 p.m. they host featured author Desmond Cole at the Nazrey A.M.E. Church.

Also on February 5 at 2 p.m. Wayne Embry presents Race, Power and Politics in the NBA at the Nazrey A.M.E. Church. Embry is a NBA champion Hall of Fame, two-time Executive of the Year and the first AfricanAmerican GM in NBA history. There is no charge to attend and a special Q&A about his career is on the agenda. Embry will be joined by Richard Peddie, Owner of River Bookshop and former President and CEO of Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment.

On February 8 at 6:30 p.m., Willow Key (a University of Windsor Master’s student) presents Windsor’s Black Mecca: Recovering the Stories of the McDougall Street Corridor. This also takes place at the River Bookshop and is a free event.

Wrapping up the week on February 9 at 6:30 p.m., the museum’s Curator MaryKatherine Whelan and Assistant Curator,

Local youth members of Black Kids in Action Performing Art Group wave flags in the air at the Windsor Police Diversity BBQ in August 2019. Photo courtesy of Hunter Blu.

Dr. Lorene Bridgen-Lennie, discuss the history of the Nazrey A.M.E. Church, Taylor Log Cabin, and Museum building, and their significance to Underground Railroad History and Black settlement in Canada. The free presentation, It Started With A Dream: History of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, is also held at the River Bookshop.

As well every Saturday and Sunday in February, a free art exhibit from noon to 5 p.m. takes place at the Hole In The Wall inside the River Bookshop. Entitled Rarely Seen: Art from the Amherstburg Freedom

THE PARENTING BIZ

Mary-Katherine Whelan is the Curator/Administrator of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 277 King Street. The museum celebrates the area’s Black history with special events, exhibits and artifacts, which tell the story of African Canadians, their journey to freedom and their contributions to society. Photo by Rod Denis.

Museum Collection, the artwork features a mix of styles, techniques, and subject matter related to the Black experience.

All the events listed above can be found on: AmherstburgFreedom.org/event.

In addition, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum has several offerings during the month of February including a temporary exhibit in their permanent gallery — Going Beyond Religion: The Activism and Community Service of Black Churches in Amherstburg and Colchester, 1826-1955.

You can also join them virtually on

February 16 at 2 p.m. for their Black History Series presentation, featuring Dr. Nadia Prendergast, Seyedeh-Samin Barakati, Fabliha Awal, Caitlin Cosgrove and Adedayo Adegbola, who discuss nursing and anti-Black racism in healthcare. (ow.ly/8VFi50M5JQH)

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum is open Tuesday to Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for students/seniors and $30 for families (please inquire about group rates).

For more information on the museum refer to: AmherstburgFreedom.org.

Honouring Black History Every Day Of The Year

Whether you’re looking for fun and educational activities to do with the kids or an event to attend during Black History Month, or you’re looking to get more involved in the community, we hope this article has pointed you in the right direction.

Whatever you choose to do, make sure you do it in a respectful and open minded manner.

And remember to keep teaching your kids about Black history all year long . . . not just in February! It will help them value and respect Black history and people, finally bringing us all together as one.

KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY National Student Writing Contest Raises Funds For Habitat For Humanity Windsor-Essex

Since2007, students in Grades 4, 5 and 6 have shared what home means to them in the Meaning Of Home Contest, which is now accepting entries for the 2023 installment. Students across the country are invited (at no charge) to submit a poem or essay explaining what home means to them, by mail or online at: MeaningOfHome.ca, until February 24, 2023

Every student entering the contest helps Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex build safe and affordable homes, because every entry earns a $10 donation towards their local Habitat for Humanity.

Three grand prize winners will each receive a $30,000 grant to help a local Habitat for Humanity build a place to call home, for a family in need of affordable housing.

In addition, nine runners-up will receive a $10,000 grant for their local Habitat for Humanity.

Winners will be announced by June.

Housing continues to be an important concern for all Canadians, including children, who understand how housing can provide their family with a safe place — a place to study, pursue their dreams and build a better life.

Families in the Windsor Essex region have never had more difficulty accessing safe, affordable housing.

“Entering the Meaning of Home Contest is a very real way for youth to feel empowered, and students are truly helping to move the needle on the local housing crisis,” says Fiona Coughlin, CEO of

Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex. “This year every entry will be supporting the construction of homes in both Ford City and Sandwich Towne, providing essential construction materials to build homes with five local families.”

Coughlin notes that past participation from Windsor Essex students in this contest has provided more than $30,000 in support of local construction of homes, with families in core-housing need.

Founded by Sagen (Sagen.ca), the Meaning of Home contest has raised over $2 million to help local Habitats across Canada build decent and affordable housing.

Last year, over 13,000 entries were received — the largest number of submissions Habitat Canada has ever received for this contest — and over $311,000 was raised.

Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex is a non-profit community service organization working towards a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. Their mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing and promoting home ownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty.

For more information visit the website: HabitatWindsor.org.

© Can Stock Photo/petro

The 2022 Appreciation Luncheon For Windsor-Essex

County Association Of REALTORS

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT

December 14, 2022 at Beach Grove Golf & Country Club, 14134 Riverside Drive East, Tecumseh. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left unless indicated.

The Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS (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. Their mission is provide Member support to enhance professional growth. The vision is that WECAR REALTORS are the first choice for real estate services. Find more details on: WindsorRealEstate.com.

1. This special luncheon, hosted by the Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS, brings together local real estate agents with the new Board of Directors and also honours certain members for their dedication to the industry. To kick-start our photo coverage, the newly elected President of WECAR Mark Lalovich of RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd., receives the traditional gavel from past President Elica Berry, a Salesperson at Jump Realty Inc.

HOT SHOTS

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

2. 25 year recipients: Jo-Anne Kettlewell, Deerbrook Realty, Inc.; Damien Chappus, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate and John Lopez, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate.

3. 25 year recipients: Mary Anne Aitken, Remo Valente Real Estate Limited; Julia McClelland, Bob Pedler Real Estate Limited; Daniel Hofgartner, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd. and Kathy Montcalm, Jump Realty Inc.

4. 30 year recipients: Cathy Cookson, Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited and Stephany Mercer, WECAR Society Member.

5. 30 year recipients: Randy Standel, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Limited; Margaret Waryszak, Deerbrook Realty, Inc. and K. R. (Bob) Kella, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Limited.

6. 35 year recipients: Tim Mercer, Century 21 Erie Shores Realty, Inc.; Dave Aitken, Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited and Patrick Horwood, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate.

7. 35 year recipients: Mark Tesolin, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.; Todd Burns, Century 21 Teams & Associates Ltd. and Kay (Khalida) Tayyab, LC Platinum Realty Inc.

Turn the page to see

more Hot Shots from the WECAR Appreciation Luncheon

WECAR

Appreciation luncheon photos continue from page 39

8. 35 year recipients: Pete Spiliadis, Manor Windsor Realty Ltd.; Robert Hunt, Pinnacle Plus Realty Ltd. and Roland Pillon, Century 21 Request Realty, Inc.

9. 50 year recipients: Fred Shaw, Royal LePage Binder Real Estate and Jeanette Tourond, Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd.

10. Ida Sproule of Remo Valente Real Estate Limited, earned the Distinguished REALTOR Award for her continuous support of W.E. Care for Kids and her participation on numerous WECAR committees, over her 49 year career as a Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS member.

Dutch Boys Chocolate . . . New Owners Promise To Honour Traditions Of Award-Winning Chocolate Shop

By Victoria Rose

Windmill prints on the wall and sculpted chocolate displays, help visitors to Dutch Boys Chocolate Inc. make the connection that the creations in the cabinets are more than just food, they are handcrafted pieces of art.

The small shop is the ideal setting for the Dutch Boys welcoming experience . . . the ability to ask questions, get to know the chocolatiers, and try a sample of high quality Belgian chocolate.

“When new customers try the chocolate . . . the look on their face and that sensation . . . it makes it worth it!” expresses Sam Leonard, who — along with his wife, Maggie — recently purchased the chocolate shop from its original owners.

“Those reactions really reinforce the fact that we made the right decision,” Maggie adds.

Dutch Boys opened in 2017, when carver and sales professional Cor Boon collaborated with professional sculptor and fabrication specialist Henry Noestheden to create 3D art using high quality chocolate.

In its first full year of operation, Dutch Boys won a Jimmy Award, handed out annually by travel blogger Jim Byers, as the best chocolate maker in Canada.

In 2022 the partners decided to sell the shop and a Biz X article about the complete turn-key operation being for sale caught Maggie’s attention.

So she asked her husband: “What would you say to being a chocolatier?”

Sam laughed, but it was a serious question that Maggie reinforced by taking him to see the store the next day. After Boon greeted the couple, Maggie launched into her questions and had a tour of the store; he invited them to return when Noestheden would be available to meet them as well.

“We had a down-to-earth conversation, and you could feel it was honest,” says Sam.

The discussions became more frequent and detailed (including trial chocolate days) and three months after seeing the Biz X article, the process began for the Leonards to purchase the business.

Boon and Noestheden stayed on to train the new owners in every aspect of the business and to support them during the Christmas rush. Even now, they still pop in to say hello, connect with customers, and assist the Leonards with anything they need.

“They are such wonderful teachers,” comments Maggie. “They are very generous people. We don’t feel like we’ve bought a business, it’s more like we’ve gained an extended family.”

It was only recently the Leonards learned the store had received four other offers; however, Boon and Noestheden were holding out for the perfect fit.

They felt the couple would be able to make the business work based on their desire to maintain the store’s high standards, combined with their backgrounds.

Sam had worked in the restaurant industry and was a sous chef for some time, but when he wanted to make more money, he made a move and spent the next 27 years as a machinist in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Maggie, while based in Cambridge, spent 30 years in automotive financing, eventually working as a financial advisor.

“It’s very unique,” Maggie states. “The four of us feel it was meant to be.”

The Leonards (who now reside in Amherstburg) love to cook and had always talked about owning their own food-related business in the future.

The couple does not plan on making

any changes to the store. Even with rising food costs, they decided not to increase prices, noting that as new owners and new entrepreneurs, maintaining goodwill is very important.

“Why would you mess with something that works?” says Maggie.

Visitors to Dutch Boys Chocolate Inc. at 6 Main Street West, Kingsville, can stop in for samples, ask questions, and get expert help in picking out a treat.

The store has a variety of items including chocolate bars, dipped ginger, 18 flavours of truffles, and salted caramel bars (a best seller!).

Their large chocolate medallions and 3D figures are created using hand-carved moulds from the original owners and the solid chocolate — like the Pelee Island Lighthouse — are wonderful gifts. They even make sugar-free chocolate for diabetics (made with Maltitol).

Dutch Boys can also create custom wedding favours and ship any product across Canada and the U.S. in cooler months.

For more sweet ideas and to find out what’s available for Valentine’s Day and Easter, check out: DutchBoysChocolate.com.

Dutch Boys Chocolate in Kingsville is now owned by Maggie and Sam Leonard (second from left). With the help of the previous owners Cor Boon and Henry Noestheden, the passing of the torch (in this case, hand-carved chocolate moulds!) should be complete by the end of spring. Photo by Rod Denis.