Biz X magazine January 2018

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION

January 2018

$3.50

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20th Biz X Awards Gala Photos!

See award winners like Trojan Interior Contracting (2002) Limited . . .

And who was on the guest list such as Marlene Corey and Andrea Morosin of YourTV

“What’s Cooking?”

It’s a new year and with it comes change and new beginnings. This especially rings true in the local dining scene. Old favourites are transforming into even more exciting eateries and many experienced restaurateurs across the region are tempting foodies with fresh cuisine styles from New Orleans to Mexico. — PAGE 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

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FOR BUSINESSES AND PEOPLE IN WINDSOR, ESSEX COUNT Y AND METRO DETROIT

BRIAN BENDIG

PRESIDENT, CAVALIER TOOL

AWARDED MOST LOVED LEADER I N

W I N D S O R - E S S E X

Cavalier Tool is comprised of a team of leaders in the Mold Making industry. We pride ourselves on a great company culture, atmosphere and our family-oriented company.

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BI Z X MAGAZI NE • JANUARY 2018

table of contents January 2018 volume 21 • issue 1

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28 40

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: WindsorEats Racks Up The Tourism Awards 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Benefits Of Short Course FINA Event Come Up Short Boasts that the City of Windsor realized a surplus in hosting the 2016 FINA swimming championships do not hold water, concludes columnist Alan Halberstadt. He also notes the stark contrast of poor attendance at the WFCU Centre for an event that professes to have been viewed by 463 million people world-wide.

8 Front Lines 11 Corporate Spotlight: The Fourth Annual “Entrepreneurial Summit” 12 Milestones: Salon Zayaa Celebrates 10 Terrific Years 13 Heard On The Street 14 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 17 Event Profile: “AfroFest” February 2018 22 Food For Thought: K.O.M.A. Restaurant, Windsor 23 Hot Shots: Windsor Roseland Rotary’s 22nd Annual “Wines Of The World” 24 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Mega Hospital News Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care (shown in top photo by Joe McParland) visited Windsor Regional Hospital’s (WRH) Ouellette Campus in early December to announce that the new Windsor-Essex Regional Hospital redevelopment project is moving forward. The new hospital will serve over 400,000 people and will provide advanced acute care services designed to meet changing health care needs of the region’s residents. Joe sat down with David Musyj, CEO of WRH, to chat about the importance of this decision.

26 Take The Lead: The “Global Leadership Summit 2017” 27 XX Files: JoAnne Muegge, The On-Purpose Lady 28 Biz X Was There Bill Bevan (left), Former Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS) and Jack Jorgensen, President & CEO of Advance Business Systems (middle photo by Rod Denis) were both thrilled with the amount of cash raised for the WECAS Youth Advisory Committee from proceeds of the 26th annual “American Thanksgiving Football Classic.” How much was the grand total and who else was in attendance? (Here’s a big hint, Biz X was there, but so were many other biz pros!)

30 Hot Shots: “Cheers To 20 Years” For W.E. Care For Kids 32 Portfolio Corner 34 Making A Sound Living: The Future Looks Bright For Paulina Bertoia Vrozos, Athena Bass & Athenaromas 36 Hot Shots: Stigma Enigma’s “Mingle For Mental Health” 37 The Way It Was 38 Ask The Experts: Wincrete Concrete Specialist, Amherstburg 39 From The Bookshelf 40 Awards Spotlight: The 20th Annual “Biz X Awards Gala” The Biz X crew has a little fun before the awards ceremony begins (see photo at left by Rod Denis) with Della Jones-Goulet, Emcee Joe McParland and Publisher Deborah Jones taking a quick shot in the photo area. The gala theme honoured the classic film, The Wizard of Oz. Look closely to see Toto here but you might recognize a few more characters (cut outs and people!) in our annual awards coverage as well.

46 Biz Of The Month: The 30th Anniversary Of Deerbrook Realty Inc., Brokerage

ON THE COVER — “What’s Cooking?” — 18 From fine-dining to casual fare, there’s something for everyone across Windsor Essex region’s vibrant dining scene. Find out what can be served on your plate and which new restaurants will dish it out in 2018!

Main photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/peshkov TOP: Photo Wrap Up Of The 20th Annual “Biz X Awards Gala” — 40 Robert Troup (left), President and Shawn Belanger, Vice President from Trojan Interior Contracting (2002) Limited received the award for “The Drywall Biz Who’s Name Is Written All Over It” at the November 2017 gala. From YourTV: Producer/Director Marlene Corey and “Plugged In” Host Andrea Morosin were on site taping the acceptance speeches by 24 winners and special highlights of the gala to air in January. Photos by Rod Denis.

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

from the publisher

Promoting The Food & Beverage Biz

By Deborah Jones A new year has begun once again and business owners are filled with hope that 2018 will be their most profitable year yet.

As you saw with the publishing of our 20th annual Biz X awards edition in mid-November 2017, myself and everyone on my team, believe Windsor Essex is the #1 spot to operate a business.

We recognized 24 excited local companies/ organizations and individuals who received their awards in a formal gala at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. In the pages of this issue you can see photos from the event and on Your TV, Cable 11/HD 700, highlights from the evening, broadcast from January 15 to February 1.

This area has a lot to brag about! Not only are we pleased with the fact we had 220 nominees in our awards program (including lots of fantastic restaurants) but we also have many local companies bringing recognition to our area.

Since we have a dining feature this time around, let’s learn about a local company racking up a few awards in the hospitality industry.

In early November 2017 at the “Ontario Tourism

Summit” in Niagara Falls, Adriano Ciotoli, Co-Owner of WindsorEats was selected as the “Tourism Champion of the Year” by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario. The award recognizes an organization or business that has developed an admirable reputation as a great place to work and as an upstanding example of Ontario’s tourism industry.

Ciotoli launched WindsorEats in 2004, along with his sister and business partner, Pina. They have become a leader in promoting the Windsor Essex region as a culinary tourism destination.

As the business grew quickly, WindsorEats began offering “Wine Trail Rides,” “Bikes & Beers,” and the “Drinks of Walkerville,” a walking tour through Old Walkerville to learn about its architecture. The tour was designated as an “Ontario Signature Experience” in 2015.

As well, in late November, WindsorEats was awarded the “Small or Medium Sized Business of the Year” Award at the Tourism Industry Association of Canada Tourism Conference in Gatineau, Quebec.

The award is presented to a tourism business in Canada, with fewer than 20 employees, that exemplifies industry best practices in all aspects of its operations and is an example of all around business excellence in the tourism industry.

“We are so honoured to be recognized on a national scale,” says Pina. “The business and organizations we work alongside and partner with are an important part of what we do and help us in achieving our goals and providing quality experiences. Adriano and I work hard at showing others what is unique about Windsor and Essex County, elevating its position in the tourism sector and providing quality experiences for visitors.

When someone takes notice of the work you’re doing it’s a great feeling.”

Not only is WindsorEats.com blazing their own trail in promoting their region and the province of Ontario, but, the very core of the business is also dedicated to partnering with and promoting other culinary and tourism businesses, giving small operators a larger platform to get their message out.

And that is where Biz X fits in. It is also our mission to promote tourism businesses, but also all the best area businesses and organizations in every industry! And so we begin our 21st year of publishing . . . I hope you enjoy this edition and learn even more great news on award winners throughout our magazine — not just in our January 2018 issue but every issue after!

SAVE THE DATE!

HATS ON FOR HEALTHCARE WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 Hats On For Healthcare is a simple but fun and fashionable way to raise money.

Making a donation gives you the privilege to wear your favorite hat on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 for Hats On For Healthcare Day! Thousands of dollars are raised by organizations, companies, schools, and municipalities participating and encouraging their staff to participate and raise awareness and funds for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Email us to register at hats-on@wrh.on.ca, call 519-973-4433 or make your donation online at

www.hatsonforhealthcare.com B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

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editorial viewpoint

Final FINA Report Fuzzy On Cost Benefit Analysis

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

R

ecorded in 1944 by Johnny Mercer with the Pied Pipers: “Accentuate the positive, Eliminate the negative, Latch onto the affirmative, Don’t mess with Mister In Between,” are appropriate lyrics to start this column.

The final report on the economic benefits of the December, 2016 FINA Short Course World Swimming Championships was originally targeted to get to Windsor City Council in April of last year.

Spring gave way to summer, at which point a new target date was set for September. Finally, the report limped before Council in early November 2017.

But interestingly, the findings were given to a docile mainstream media over a week before Council brave hearts had an opportunity to find any fault with it.

This is a time-worn political gambit of getting ahead of the story, accentuating as much positive spin as possible by over-responding to critics with way too much information.

And for the most part it worked.

The media aped Mayor Drew Dilkens, heralding the event a financial success. By the time the conversation reached Council, FINA was old news although some would say it was fake news.

The main purpose of the report was to present a 34-page economic impact assessment from the Canadian Sports Tourism Alliance (CSTA), delivered to Council on November 6, 2017 by Tony Fisher, the company’s Executive Director of Research and Analytics.

An 11 page preamble to the assessment, produced by a supposedly neutral city administration, was peppered with superlative editorial viewpoints that made it obvious why it took almost a year to polish the apple. It allowed the Mayor and his Council chattels to crow that this reaffirmed the decision to go forward with the FINA event at considerable cost and risk to city taxpayers.

Using fuzzy figures, Dilkens declared the event showed a city surplus of $116,000 for the six day event, December 6 to 11, 2016, on an expenditure of $11.3 million.

Others didn’t quite see it that way, given the fact that the vast majority of $11.3 million

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revenues originated from taxpayers — $2.5 million from the province, $3.5 million from the feds and $3 million from the city.

“It’s interesting to read that unused government funding is labelled as ‘a surplus,’” muses Dr. Marike Taks, a Professor at the School of Human Kinetics at the University of Ottawa who has studied economic impact measurements of events such as FINA. Part of that included a budgeted contingency of $192,000 that was not spent, which is more than the surplus lauded about.

Taks, a former Professor of Sports Management at the University of Windsor, led surveys during the long-forgotten “International Children’s Games” hosted by Windsor Essex in August, 2013.

I emailed her the FINA report and asked her to critique the conclusions. Here is part of her response.

“As usual, the economic impact figures are based on a Standard Economic Impact Analysis, which is always positive, because it does not take into account the costs of hosting, as does a Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) approach. A CBA considers government spending as a cost, (i.e. opportunity cost).”

The CBA approach also considers longterm operating and capital costs, which the Sports Alliance model does not. The $6.4 million east end community swimming pool that was built as a practice pool for the FINA swimmers, suffers a budgeted operating deficit of $627,000 a year.

Host cities for such events never want to admit they are just recycling taxpayer dollars for the benefit of the few. FINA produced a harvest for the local hotel industry and a few select caterers, suppliers and retailers.

No mention was made of previous revelations that Event Director Peter Knowles hauled in a salary of $285,000, $2,600 for rent and $42,000 for travel. VIP and deluxe suites at Caesars Windsor fetched up to $1,500 a night as the host municipality paid for all the food, lodging and beverages of the 864 swimmers and 591 FINA officials.

Flights to and from 153 countries, and local transportation, were covered also.

The number claiming $32 million of economic spinoff activity in Windsor and $42 million Ontario-wide is subject B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

to interpretation depending on the mathematical methodology used, which according to the Steam Pro model used

by Fisher considered direct, indirect and induced impacts Proponents of the results of the study were meant to be dazzled by the chestnut that 462,610,035 people (global audience) viewed the non-Olympic event. That suspect number came from another source and Fisher distanced himself from it when asked at Council how they could be so precise in breaking it down to that last 35 people.

Like other numbers in the report, it was subject to a boiler plate formula.

“The event has certainly generated great branding and marketing opportunities for the high-performance swimming community world-wide,” writes Dr. Taks. “Whether it reached the non-swimming community remains questionable.”

The paid attendance at the WFCU Centre’s main bowl, fitted with a temporary pool, was reported at 15,000 for the week, which seems anemic for an event that professes to have such a huge economic impact and 6% of the world’s population watching.

The house was papered up to 23,222 with free tickets dished out to 4,000 school children, some 800 volunteers and various other privileged people. Original projections envisioned an overall attendance of 35,000.

Fisher has conducted hundreds of these studies for an employer that prides itself in building business cases to gain support for governments wishing to host such events. He conceded to Council that he is very biased.

When asked challenging questions by Councillors Irek Kusmierczyk, Rino Bortolin and Chris Holt about Return On Investment (ROI) audits, he conceded he doesn’t do those.

Kusmierczyk heaped praise on the hundreds of prideful citizens and city staff who executed the actual event, but then quoted independent experts in sports tourism who claim the economic benefits of such events are exaggerated, grossly so according to one.

Fisher’s group was paid $5,000 for its summation. When Councillor Fred Francis made a motion to accept the report, Kusmierczyk requested a friendly amendment to include an independent Cost Benefit Analysis, at a cost he estimated at $25,000, in the budget of any future grand event that Dilkens and his sports tourism officer have in store.

Francis didn’t accept the deeper accountability dive amendment, and there it died.

Note: Councillors Bill Marra and Alan Halberstadt, then a Councillor, opposed the original motion to host the FINA event.

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

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FRONTLINES

New Look For Valente Real Estate Office

F

orty-five years after the company opened its doors in a high-traffic South Windsor location, the offices of Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited have undergone a transformation, but the owners have stayed true to its roots.

Established in 1973 by Remo Valente, the company is now in the hands of his children — President Peter Valente and Brokers Amy Valente Sarkis and Gabe Valente.

“It was a Country Style donut shop when dad bought it because he saw great potential in this area,” Peter recalls of the company’s offices at 2985 Dougall Avenue. “We’ve added to the building twice over the years, but this is the first full-scale renovation and transformation. It was simply time for a complete retrofit.”

An open house in late October 2017 gave Realtors, Lawyers, business people, builders and members of the community a chance to tour the new building, which includes renovated offices, a reception room and increased second-floor space for the company’s home development division.

All three children fell into the business at different times in their lives — Peter started working for his father 24 years ago after reading Donald Trump’s “The Art of the Deal” while taking time off from university to recover from a herniated disc. Amy joined up after completing a sociology degree at the University of Windsor, but had early thoughts of becoming a teacher. Gabe signed on 17 years ago after studying architecture at Detroit’s Lawrence Tech before opting for the family business.

“Working with family creates such a nice dynamic,” believes Amy. “We try to pass along that family atmosphere to our staff as well and it has worked very well over the years.”

Gabe explains that working with family

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Valente Real Estate President Peter Valente (left), his brother Gabe Valente and his sister Amy Valente Sarkis, inside the company’s newly-renovated offices, 2985 Dougall Avenue. Photo by Dave Hall.

has provided him with a great deal of guidance over the years and he has benefited from all that experience.

“It also helps that we have such a great location in a high traffic area,” says Gabe.

“We have people walking in from the neighbourhood to sell their houses.”

The company now has 70 real estate brokers, five mortgage brokers and 10 support staff. Valente also operates The Mortgage Centre, a sister company at the same South Windsor location.

Peter notes that the company’s new home division has been growing over the past 10 years and they recently completed Rivertown Terrace, a 50-unit condominium development at 8475 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor.

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

“Affordable housing and an influx of active retirees from out-of-town has enabled us to increase that side of the business in recent years,” Peter remarks. “People moving to this area are able to sell their more expensive homes in say Toronto or Calgary, buy a comparable home here for a third the price and put the rest away to fund their retirement.”

Peter adds, “We have access to bigcity amenities across the Detroit River complemented by Windsor’s small-city appeal along with excellent recreational options and a great climate.”

With an improving local economy on the horizon, Valente Real Estate expects to grow along with the community. Learn more about this agency at: ValenteRealEstate.com.

FRONTLINES

M

arriott International’s TownePlace Suites by Marriott Windsor, 250 Dougall Avenue, officially opened for business in November 2017. Operating as a Marriott franchise, it is owned and managed by Sunray Group of Hotels, based in Toronto (SunrayGroup.ca).

“We are excited to introduce the TownePlace Suites brand to the Windsor area,” says Diane Mayer, Vice President and Global Brand Manager, TownePlace Suites. “At TownePlace Suites, we get it.

We want to go above and beyond to do everything we can to make our guests feel comfortable. We encourage our guests to be real, and help them to do so by providing a seamless residential atmosphere with a friendly staff who genuinely care about our guests. That is what our brand is all about, and this property is a great example of that.”

The new hotel allows guests to keep their routine and settle into the surrounding neighbourhood. All service team members are thoroughly trained about the local area and their TowneMap also helps guests instantly acclimate themselves to Windsor by featuring great places to eat, play and live (explore).

Ideal for travellers who need accommodations for longer stays, this new property offers studio and one-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, as well as separate living/working and sleeping areas.

Guests can work and relax on their own terms in modern suites that feature full kitchens with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, adjustable work spaces with built-in shelves and lighting, a flat screen television, as well as luxurious new bedding. Most rooms also feature the Home Office Suite, designed to provide guests with plenty of storage and flexible space to spread out and make it their own.

The TownePlace Suites Windsor allows

128-Suite Hotel Ready To Welcome Guests In Downtown Windsor

The lobby of the new TownePlace Suites Marriott Windsor features plenty of seating, a dual height communal table to stay connected and a unique “Windsor wall” made of ceiling to floor colourful chains. Photo courtesy of Elaine Kilburn Photography.

guests to maintain a healthy lifestyle with an array of food options. While on the property guests can create their own complimentary hot breakfast every morning in the lobby area, and can fire up their stay by grilling dinner on outdoor Weber grills.

The 24-hour In a Pinch market and On Us coffee service offer guests the chance to get their snacks and caffeine “on” whenever they feel the need. The full kitchen and refrigerator allow guests to cook their own food, or save their leftovers after eating at a local hotspot.

In addition, TownePlace Suites helps its guests stay organized on the road with the

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

help of The Container Store. Travellers can unpack their suitcase in a custom elfa closet. From drawers to shelves to smart hanging space, guests can find everything they need to feel right at home.

Other hotel amenities include a meeting room, an exercise room open 24 hours per day, laundry facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and on-site business services, including copying, faxing and printing. And the TownePlace Suites Windsor is pet-friendly (fees may apply)!

Find out more information on their website: Marriott.com/yqgts.

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FRONTLINES Carlos Puckerin and Chris Brookbanks have put their life experiences to good use by opening their own fitness centre on Windsor’s far east side.

Puckerin and Brookbanks — who have each lost more than 100 pounds themselves — launched FL3X Fitness at 10700 Tecumseh Road East, which was previously occupied by Train Station Fitness.

“Both Chris and I understand how difficult it can be to make that kind of weight-loss and fitness commitment, so we’re trying to do our best to make it easier for our members,” claims Puckerin. “We also provide nutritional and diet information so our members can also make a commitment to eating healthy meals.”

Puckerin and Brookbanks staged an open house in early November 2017 with Percy Hatfield (MPP Windsor-Tecumseh) and Windsor City Councillor Bill Marra in attendance.

Both Hatfield and Marra congratulated the two entrepreneurs for keeping a fitness club operating on the site and for providing jobs, fitness opportunities and nutritional advice to Windsor-area residents.

“Carlo and I both worked for another gym and when this building became available, it provided us with the perfect opportunity to try out some of our own ideas,” says

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FL3X Fitness Aims To “Pump You Up!”

Fitness trainers at FL3X Fitness include: Kristin Broadwell, left; Lauren Fisico; Co-Owner Chris Brookbanks; Theophilus Toney (sitting) and Co-Owner Carlos Puckerin. Photo by Dave Hall.

Brookbanks. “We want to create a strong membership experience for all our members, no matter what their fitness level and goals are when they first walk through the doors.”

The club features a cardio area upfront, facing Tecumseh Road and a large weight room in the rear of the building. Puckerin and Brookbanks also have a staff of personal

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

trainers, which they plan to increase as membership numbers increase.

The two partners already have plans to open another FL3X Fitness at 6020 Malden Road in LaSalle, adjacent to a Shoppers Drug Mart.

The Windsor gym is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more info, visit: FL3Xlife.com.

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT

High School Students Receive Introduction To Start-Up Life

By Arthur Barbut

T

he fourth annual “Entrepreneurial Summit” took place in mid-November 2017 at the Fogolar Furlan in Windsor.

The Summit brought together high school students and teachers with entrepreneurs and organizations fostering entrepreneurship in Windsor Essex. The goal of the event was to educate students on the topic of entrepreneurship and introduce them to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The event hosted 200 high school students who participated in workshops facilitated by successful young local entrepreneurs.

The Summit featured two keynote presentations, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The morning speakers were Michael Hoppe and Janeil Alais from 3DFX and the afternoon keynote address was given by Nichole Howson from AIM Social Media Marketing.

The speakers shared with the audience their entrepreneurial journey and how they overcame the struggles that every entrepreneur is guaranteed to face. The presentations were informative and interactive, with a Q & A at the end to give an opportunity for the students to interact with the speaker.

The entrepreneurs also engaged the students to spark questions and discussion about entrepreneurship.

It’s a new year and a new chapter has begun in the evolution of the Accelerator. Their new home at 1501 Howard Avenue will provide an opportunity for innovators, such as Hoppe and Alais, with an incredible space to work on their inventions.

Photo by Arthur Barbut.

The Holobox projects holographic images for people to see and play with. The team at 3DFX is exploring A.I. Characters like Theodore the bear (shown) to see how people can interact with A.I and if they will become friends.

In the second workshop, the students were challenged with a problem for which they had to create an innovative solution and present it. The problem in this case had to do with stress and the groups were challenged to create a product that would help alleviate stress. The ideas put forward were incredible, ranging from various apps to a backpack that was ergonomically designed and will vibrate to provide a stress relieving massage.

Siddique Sheikh, Program Director at the Accelerator and the driving force behind the Accenchin program, provides his personal take on the event.

“Over the last four years of the summit, I’ve personally seen the effect of the event by witnessing the growth of the students who have attended since the first year,” remarks Sheikh. “Their knowledge and passion for entrepreneurship is great to see.”

Positive feedback was also received from the teachers in attendance, just read these two comments below . . .

• “The students thoroughly enjoyed it and it was a fantastic way to engage them

into the opportunities in entrepreneurship . . . an entrepreneur at their table enabled a more intimate discussion as well as the activity and pitch. Again, fantastic! Thank you!” — Shelley Ryan, École Secondaire Catholique E.J. Lajeunesse • “Thank you . . . for hosting such a valuable, and informative, event to help shape young minds.” — Rhonda Bentley, Assumption College Catholic High School For the students, one of the highlights was the opportunity to see new technology unveiled.

3DFX’s Hoppe and Alais revealed their hologram device, which allows people to enjoy 3D without the help of 3D glasses or special hardware. Their creation has a number of exciting applications, including video games.

The pair are looking to evolve the video game world from just watching to experiencing it. The team is looking to work with entrepreneurs from Windsor and Detroit to create new games and applications around their hologram technology.

The future is ours for the taking. Seize the opportunity!

For more information regarding the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator, 1501 Howard Avenue and how you can become a positive contributor to the region’s entrepreneurs, please contact Managing Director, Arthur Barbut by emailing: Arthur@downtownaccelerator.com.

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Windsor Salon Celebrates MILESTONES A Decade of Pampering, Now Aims To Give Back

By Rebecca Wright When it comes to beauty treatments, a local salon has you covered from head to toe!

Salon Zayaa (on Facebook see “Salon Zayaa”) offers a wide range of services, from hair colouring, cut and style, to manicures, pedicures, lash and hair extensions and more.

“We’re trying to make this like a one-stop pampering day for our clients to come and enjoy themselves,” says Owner Rosanna Rocca.

The salon, located at 2760 Howard Avenue in Windsor, is celebrating 10 years in business by continuing to do what they’ve always done — providing exceptional service using top-quality products and always making sure their clients are satisfied.

Rocca took over the business as owner in April 2017. Prior to that, Salon Zayaa was owned

by Tina Scalia, who started the business with Antonella Chisesi-Gereige a decade ago.

“Rosanna’s doing a great job at keeping what we started,” comments Scalia, who still rents a chair and works at the salon. “It’s great staying with her as a family and just working together.”

That’s what Scalia believes sets them apart from others — their family-oriented style of operating — which “makes it nice and cozy,” she adds.

The team is made up of seven stylists, each with a different skillset that enhances the business and helps make it successful, states Scalia.

“We have educators on our team from different backgrounds, and we each have unique and different skills,” notes Scalia. “We have somebody that does lashes, we have an esthetician, we have a colour expert that teaches in the industry all over, from the United States to Europe.”

Salon Zayaa remains competitive through keeping up with the current trends and always evolving to stay relevant, adds Rocca.

“We’re going to be adding a makeup artist to do makeup applications, to our staff very soon, and we’ll also be selling makeup — like how we already sell our beauty products — so this will expand our business even more,” describes Rocca.

Scalia mentions they’ve accommodated a ton of wedding parties in their decade of operation and built a very loyal customer base over the years.

“We’ve had people as clients and now we’re looking after their children, and they’re

The staff at Salon Zayaa — from left, Antonella Chisesi-Gereige, Rosanna Rocca and Tina Scalia — is comprised of just a handful of stylists with different skill sets, which they feel makes for a more intimate and personal experience. Photo by Rebecca Wright

bringing in their co-workers,” states Scalia. “So people bring their families in and their work families in.”

The number one service amongst their clients is hair colouring, but Scalia reports their lash treatments are also becoming more popular.

Rocca says she definitely sees a bright future ahead and hopes to celebrate at least another 10 years in business.

On a final note, Rocca puts a call out to charities and organizations needing to possibly collaborate with the salon: “We’re looking to do more charity projects and focus on giving back in the community,” states Rocca. “So if there are any charities looking for help, get in touch with us so we can help out.”

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

BRINGING YOU UP TO SPEED ON THE LATEST BUZZ AROUND TOWN!

HEARD ON THE STREET

Walkerville entrepreneur Mary Lambros is planning an April opening for her latest venture — the Garage Door Theatre on the site of the former Monarch Mattress building at 1519 Wyandotte Street East.

When complete, the fully-renovated building will include an artists’ café, reception area, retail spaces, artist workshops and a small theatre. “The theatre area will be small enough for young playwrights to stage their work without having to use the larger Walkerville Theatre across the street,” says Lambros who also owns the larger venue. Lambros is planning a repair and rebuild on the Monarch site, a part of which was damaged in a fire last May. “It’s been a long process working with the city, but we’re close to being on track again,” adds Lambros. The two theatres will be hosts of Windsor’s annual “Fringe Festival” July 19 to 29. New Art Deco-inspired signage has been installed at the Walkerville Theatre including digital sign boards advertising upcoming events. Lambros recently closed Lorelei’s, a successful fine dining establishment, which has been replaced with NOLA’s, a Louisiana-style restaurant (read more on this new eatery in our feature story in this issue on page 18).

Elsewhere in Walkerville, new owners are continuing to step in when businesses close.

The Thirsty Butler pub is taking over the former Pleasance Trophies building at 1565 Wyandotte Street East, Hodge-Podge Attic, a vintage clothing store, has moved into an empty space at 1580 Wyandotte Street East, next to Klueless Cupcakes, and Origins Global Village has already moved into the former City Cyclery building at 553 Lincoln Road.

As many as 450 delegates at this year’s “Ontario Tourism Summit” at Caesars Windsor are expected to pump as much as $750,000 into the local economy during the two day event. It’s the premier provincial industry-wide business conference for Ontario’s tourism industry designed to share the latest trends, new ideas and best practices, as well as providing networking opportunities.

Gordon Orr, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, says, “it gives the local tourism sector an opportunity to showcase what it has to offer to a receptive audience, which will take that message back to communities across Ontario.”

Local suppliers and partners will also have an opportunity to showcase their unique attractions to delegates from across Ontario during a opening-night reception and a marketplace area, which will run for the two full days. The summit will run October 23 to 24.

Long an under-serviced neighbourhood, Ford City can now boast its first financial institution with the November 2017 opening of Ford City Financial in a small storefront at 1089 Drouillard Road in Windsor. The business, launched by Jose Gonzalez, is the first recipient of the Neighbourhood Small Business Grant Program, which is a partnership between the United Way of Windsor-Essex County and the Small Business Centre, a department of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation. “I am really excited,” says Gonzalez. “My family and I have put down

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roots in Ford City and we are involved in the neighbourhood. I will be putting the grant towards storefront improvements and some marketing initiatives.” Gonzalez will also be offering financial management training, free income tax preparation for low-income taxpayers, and discounted bookkeeping services for the newlyincorporated Ford City Residents in Action organization. More than 30 aspiring entrepreneurs went through the grant application process and there are plans to offer another opportunity this year.

Look for a couple of national food chains to open restaurants in the downtown core in the New Year, largely designed to cater to students whose downtown numbers are quickly growing. And three different developers are considering creating upper floor residential units to provide more rental options in the core. Larry Horwitz, Chairman of the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association, informs Biz X that increasing options for students and other downtown workers will make the city core even more attractive to outside investment. The DWBIA is also developing Clean and Safe alley programs by adding lighting and cleaning up on a more regular basis. “If we take care of the small things, such as making alleys clean and safe, a lot of the larger problems don’t happen,” believes Horwitz. There is also an ongoing holiday beautification program with monetary prizes for best decorations. “There is a lot going on and much of it will come to fruition in the early months of 2018,” says Horwitz, a tireless promoter of downtown improvements and investment.

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN Big things are happening at 430 Ouellette Avenue! The Holiday Inn Hotel Downtown Windsor de-branded on January 5. The hotel name changes to a Sunbridge Hotel & Conference Centre.

This name will carry the hotel through extensive renovations to become an exclusive Four Points by Sheraton in the latter part of 2018. “We are so very excited to welcome the Sheraton brand to the City of Windsor and to the downtown core,” says Luisa Moro, Director of Sales.

As part of Mastronardi Produce’s recent partnership with the nonprofit organization, Gesstwood Camp and Education Centre, the Mastronardi Produce brand, SUNSET, hosts an online contest to send area kids to camp (“Camp-ari”) for free. “We’re really excited to be able to give back to the Windsor Essex community through this amazing partnership with Gesstwood Camp & Education Centre,” comments Paul Mastronardi, President and CEO, Mastronardi Produce. “Not only are we renovating five cabins, we’ve developed this exciting and fun contest to send 30 kids to camp for free. I encourage all 10 to 15 year-olds living in the Windsor Essex community to tell us why you deserve to go to SUNSET Camp-ari!”

The contest begins January 15 and is open to those aged 10 to 15 who reside in the Windsor Essex community. Contestants will be asked to answer three questions related to why they should win a free week at camp. While at “SUNSET Campari,” contest winners will learn about greenhouse growing and healthy eating, and partake in a field trip to Mastronardi Produce. As well, celebrity Chef Roger Mooking will accompany the kids for one evening at Gesstwood where he will cook dinner and participate in various fun activities. To enter, visit the website: SunsetGrown.com/campsunset.

NEW IN BIZ After 35 years in the marketing and branding field, Ed Roach and his wife Rose Marie have turned a new page in their life’s story. Together they opened Sissy & Roché Fine Arts November 2017 in the creative town of Kingsville, their new home. It may come as a surprise to

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Ed Roach and his wife Rose Marie, Owners of Sissy & Roché Fine Arts. Photo courtesy of Ed Roach.

the business community, who knows Ed from his branding activity, that he is a passionate watercolour painter. Sissy & Roché gives Ed a dynamic platform to showcase his talent to a wider audience.

Combined with his wife Rose Marie’s passion for food and entertaining, both hope to share their knowledge and help grow the fine arts community in Kingsville from their location at 9-313 Main Street East. Sissy & Roché is not just exhibition space, but also a gift shop, a space for cooking and art classes for all ages and levels plus an off-site meeting room called “Passion View,” which gives businesses and groups a professional meeting area in a gallery setting. “We’ve even had guests inquire about renting the entire gallery for cocktail parties,” state the couple, adding their “programming will feature other local artists as well as artists from out of town, such as Marcia Hoeck from San Diego, opening in April of 2018. We are lining up book signings and feature art events like Sissy & Roché painting parties, guest chefs and a speakers series.”

View more about their upcoming events at: SissyandRoche.com.

After three years of serving the community, Jacques Berge, Coach, Connector, Creator of the Windsor Power Group, now facilitates the Windsor Results Centre as of December 2017. Located at 2597 Howard Avenue at Eugenie (park behind Kelcom) the centre provides a space where passionate people, committed to their success and an amazing life, can surround themselves in a positive environment. Here they can design a Personal System to create more love, health, energy and abundance!

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One-on-one coaching, small business consulting and workshop seminars on life and business are offered. Berge is most fired up about the Master Mind Teams, which are a group of highly motivated people who are committed to growing personally and professionally. These groups meet regularly and are focused on leveraging the power of many minds coming together for a single purpose — to foster personal and professional growth and development, drive results, and realize the attainment of your goals through accountability. For more information go to: DiscoveryOurPower.ca. In addition, the 2,700 square foot building is also available to rent for presentations on an hourly basis via Property Mom Real Estate Inc., which is now also located there.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO . . .

Art Expressions (1519 Drouillard Road, Windsor) is celebrating its 20th year in business in November 2018, but the festivities take place all year long. Owners Terry and Laurie Argent tell Biz X the store opened in 1998 and has since shared their love for art and provided expert advice in a field that enables customers to make decorating decisions easier. Monthly specials, in store savings and a one day grand event will continue until November 2018. In the store you can browse through a variety of paintings, metal wall decor, glass art, pottery, sculptures, vases and select furnishings. “We at Art Expressions have always sought to find the latest and greatest in art and home decor,” Laurie notes. “The positive feedback from the community encourages us to remain unique and a one-of-a-kind art and home decor store.” Art Expressions is on a mission to remain Windsor and Essex County’s number #1 “Preferred Place to Find Artwork” after earning the Biz X Award back in 2001. View a few of their products for sale by logging on to: ArtExpressDecor.ca.

On November 18, 2017, with hundreds in attendance, the Serbian Centre catering and events facility celebrated its 50th anniversary with the theme “Honouring our past, grateful for our present, building for our future.” The Serbian Heritage Museum, created a display which detailed

major milestones in the Serbian Centre’s history. The program honoured members of the Centre who have made significant contributions, as well as acknowledging members of 50 years, and the history of the Centre was retold by the youth of the community. The Serbian Centre’s roots at 5770 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor began with a land donation in 1963.

Nikola Budimir purchased the land, and together with Stevan Budimir and Milan Dobrich, presented the deed to George Vuicic, the congregation President of Gracanica Church. The original hall officially opened on January 22, 1967.

Moving forward, the membership is looking to purchase land to the west of the centre for another expansion with an as yet undetermined function. Find out more about this facility by referring to: SerbianCentre.com.

Happy 10th birthday to Refine Fitness Studio! Refine Fitness opened its doors in September 2007 just months before the stock market crash of 2008. At the time, Walkerville was a mere shadow of its present state, with a plethora of vacancies throughout the area. Owner Mike Bates had a vision from day one of opening his business. His unique focus on adults and busy professionals came about from his many years of experience in the big box gym world, where he noticed this portion of the market was being underserviced.

The Walkerville area was identified as an ideal location to open his Personal Training Studio due to the reputation, and historical significance that surrounded the area.

Refine Fitness has played a pioneering and influential role in contributing to the renaissance of Walkerville businesses.

Since 2007 Refine has grown to three locations in the Windsor Essex area, with Personal Training services now available in Walkerville, LaSalle and Tecumseh.

Refine Fitness caters to adults and busy professionals who can participate in private personal training, small group

personal training classes, and general memberships. Visit: RefineFitness.ca to see a list of services, locations, a class calendar, and success stories.

Located at 2557 Dougall Avenue in Windsor, PROSTAFF Employment Solutions, recently celebrated 20 years of service in November 2017. Colleen Hurst first opened PROSTAFF in 1997 after working for another staffing agency.

She knew she had a passion for the industry and wanted to build a business where her strong and solid business values could lead to success. The team at PROSTAFF see themselves as valued business partners with their clients.

They are leaders in the staffing industry because they work hard every day to make sure people come first — both employers and candidates. Each staffing request is handled with honesty, enthusiasm and dedication. The PROSTAFF team focuses on a results-centred approach where each member of the team “owns their desk” and is empowered to use creativity to build a workforce that is custom fit for each workplace. As PROSTAFF celebrates their 20 th anniversary, they are proud of the service they provide and the long term relationships they build. It is through their experience, commitment to excellence and ethical and professional standards that they’ve been able to successfully negotiate the highs and lows of the past 20 years. For more information about PROSTAFF, visit: PROSTAFFworks.ca.

HALL OF FAME Congratulations to Greg Drouillard, President of Target Building Materials Ltd., who earned the LBMAO Lifetime Industry Achievement Award at the annual Lumber and Building Materials Association of Ontario (LBMAO) gala in November 2017. The LBMAO “Lifetime Industry Achievement Award” is given to an individual who makes a significant

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Pictured at the 100th anniversary gala dinner of the LBMAO, held in the Queen’s Landing Hotel, Niagaraon-the-Lake on November 16, 2017 from left: David Campbell, LBMAO President; Greg Drouillard, Owner of Target Building Materials Ltd. and Bob Holmes, General Manager, TORBSA Group Ltd. Photo courtesy of LBMAO.

contribution to the LBM/Hardware and Home Improvement Industry, has contributed or is still contributing to his or her community through one or more civic organizations and is an active member of the LBMAO. (More details on this association here: LBMAO.on.ca). Target also celebrated 50 years of operation in 2017 and has a showroom situated at 3245 County Road 42 (opposite the Airport Terminal) and can be found online at: TargetSupply.com.

ON THE MOVE

The Town of Essex (Essex.ca), in early November 2017, appointed Alex Denonville to the position of Manager of Communications. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer. Denonville is responsible for public engagement and communications efforts for the town, working with all departments to ensure citizens are made aware of the many projects and programs happening. He brings a wealth of experience to help continue the work of former Manager of Communications, and current Deputy Clerk, Laurie Brett. Most recently, Denonville held the position of Events Planner with the Essex Region Conservation Authority.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY2018 D AT E S T O R E M E M B E R

Biz X has the list of business events (and some fun stuff) that you shouldn’t miss! Please be sure to confirm all events before attending.

Having an event? Submit your listing to us at: Bizxmagazine.com and InPlaymagazine.com

VISIT: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND INPLAYMAGAZINE.COM AND CLICK ON THE “EVENTS” TAB TO SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE BORDER CITIES!

WINDSOR ESSEX *unless noted the area code to dial is 519 Jan.12, 13 & 14: The “Windsor Psychic Expo” at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue is the city’s largest international psychic expo with private readings, books, crystals, lectures and more. Admission is $10 and good all weekend (includes all psychic demonstrations but private readings cost extra). Hours: Friday noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. To find out more details and to get a discount coupon go to: PsychicExpos.com Jan.13 & 14: “The 18th Annual Wedding Odyssey” at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The “Wedding Odyssey” is a two day event that has been designed to showcase an array of products and services from prominent wedding professionals in Windsor and Essex County. Admission $10. For more info email: weddingodyssey@yahoo.com; visit: WeddingOdyssey.ca or call 978-9477.

Jan. 20 & 21: The 31st annual “Wedding Extravaganza ’18: The Big One” at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This show is Southern Ontario’s largest wedding show with two full floors of wedding excitement, free gifts and over $25,000 in prizes. Admission is $12 and with over 200 wedding professionals and an interactive wedding gallery plus three fashion shows daily, this is is an event you won’t want to miss! For further details email: nancyc@weddingshow.com; visit the website: WeddingShows.com or call 978-0676.

Jan. 21: “Vertical Climb” presented by EUROPRO and the Windsor Regional Hospital takes place in the One Riverside Drive West building in Windsor. From

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8 a.m. to 4 p.m. attendees climb (run/walk) 13 floors to raise money for local neuroscience programs at Windsor Regional Hospital.

Admission is $25. For more information email: ron.foster@wrh.on.ca; visit the website: WRH.on.ca or call 973-4433.

Jan. 26: “Battle of the Brains Dinner & Trivia Challenge VII” presented by the Alzheimer Society of Windsor-Essex County at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road from 7 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. This has become one of Southwestern Ontario’s “must attend” charity events, with over 900 people there last January. It’s the largest trivia fundraiser event in Essex County and a 2017 Biz X Award winner! You don’t have to be any sort of Jeopardy god to come out and have a great meal and a wonderful time, and if you can’t put together a full team of eight, let the organizers know, as they will find a team for you to join. Admission is $45 or $320/table of 8 and includes a buffet dinner.

To register, email organizer Jack Ramieri (ramieri@millercanfield.com); check out: Facebook.com/events/130222630943546 or call the Alzheimer Society, 974-2220.

Jan. 27: “LOL-A-Thon” presented by the Alzheimer Society of Windsor-Essex County at Devonshire Mall, 3100 Howard Avenue in Windsor from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. In this fundraiser participants are encouraged to collect pledges in this silly event that keeps you smiling and giggling through a series of laughter activities guided by Laughter Leader, Chris Lyons. Admission is $25. Questions? email:pwinch@aswecare.com; visit website: AlzheimerWindsor.com or call 974-2220.

Feb. 9: “8th Annual Trivia Night” presented

by Connections Early Years Family Centres from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 143 situated at1570 Marentette

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Avenue in Windsor. Enjoy a chicken and pasta dinner, bake sale, 50/50 draws and more.

Admission is $20 and includes dinner. Please register at: https://TinyUrl.com/connectionstrivia-night-2018. For more details email: info@connectwithus.ca; visit the website: ConnectWithUs.ca or call 252-9696.

Feb. 9 & 10: “Community at War: The 13th Annual Windsor Military Studies Conference” at the Maj. F.A. Tilston VC Armoury, 4007 Sandwich Street, Windsor. This signature symposium is presented in collaboration with the University of Windsor, the Essex and Kent Scottish, and other Canadian Armed Forces units in Windsor. Accomplished military historians will fire the imagination with stirring dialogue and audience engagement.

Admission for the two day conference is $25 (adult). All students and members of the military (showing proper I.D.) are admitted FREE. Conference registration includes lunch on Saturday. Onsite registration on Friday is 5:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. with the keynote address beginning then. Saturday registration is 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. with the opening remarks at 9 a.m. For further information visit: WWW1.uwindsor.ca/history or call 253-3000 ext. 2318.

Feb. 17: The 35th anniversary gala for the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA) “Putting on the Ritz” at Caesars Windsor, Augustus Ballroom, 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor starting at 6 p.m. Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, you get to walk into this one! This Roaring 1920’s Speakeasy themed gala is acknowledging three and a half decades of service provision to Windsor and Essex County. Admission is $95/person or $875 for a table of 10. To learn more or to buy tickets, email: info@bana.ca; visit: Bana.ca/speakeasy or call 969-2112.

13th Annual “AfroFest” EVENT PROFILE Promotes Solidarity And Unity February 5 to 9, 2018 By Rebecca Wright During a five day celebration in February, the University of Windsor campus transforms with African diasporic culture as a commemoration to the rich history of Africa and the contributions of its people throughout the world.

“AfroFest 2018” takes place in the University of Windsor’s CAW Student Centre from February 5 to 9.

“This event works to highlight the triumphs and tribulation of the past and the present,” describes Event Coordinator Paula AjalaAlexis. “‘AfroFest’ is an event that celebrates the food, dance, diversity, clothing, talents, and unique qualities the black community has to offer.”

Ajala-Alexis adds that the event works to bring tough issues to light by hosting a plethora of discussion panels and information sessions.

“AfroFest” (Facebook.com/AfroFestUOW) takes place in February each year because it is “Black History Month” in Canada and recognized as “African Heritage Month” by the City of Windsor and surrounding communities.

The event is open to the public and AjalaAlexis believes everyone should attend the festival because it is a great way to experience black culture, which she says is foreign to many.

“‘AfroFest’ also fosters an environment of open questioning, so for anyone who has had questions about the black community or a certain aspect of it, this is the place to do it,” she notes. “We would love to have people outside of the university come be a part of this event.”

This is the 13th annual “AfroFest” hosted at the University of Windsor. While the majority of events are free, Ajala-Alexis points out there are a few with affordable fees.

Hundreds typically attend throughout the week, and the event continues to grow and evolve each year, always with a focus on unity and giving back to the community.

For this year’s “AfroFest,” Ajala-Alexis and her team have made it very diverse.

“By working with several of the other services on campus, we’ve been able to add a LGBT+ event, an art hub, and much more,” she advises. She adds that a highlight each year is the dance lesson

by Detroit’s Hiyada Diaspora and drumming lessons by Toronto’s Alpha Drumming.

Over the years, reception from the community has been very positive, according to Ajala-Alexis. She comments that since the event is very open, the general public tends to enjoy it and joins in frequently.

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“I’ve heard a lot of praise for last year’s “AfroFest,” and that’s a reminder that this year should be as good or better,” she expresses.

It’s fitting the event is held on the University of Windsor campus, Ajala-Alexis remarks, because it’s an opportunity to share knowledge and information about black culture and history.

“As we are an institution of learning, we acknowledge that we must provide cultural and educational programming that will not only entertain, but also enlighten the campus community and promote cross cultural exchange,” explains Ajala-Alexis. “This year, our main goal is to expand “AfroFest” and to reach a larger audience than ever before.

We are seeking performers, guest speakers, sponsorship, networking opportunities and/or donations.”

“AfroFest” also aims to bring “blackness” to the mainstream.

“Since a lot of the awesome things black people do are not commonly seen by the general public, this event works to do so,” she states.

“We’re working to bring black solidarity and a better sense of community to the University of Windsor campus. This event is about black people and black culture, for everyone.”

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COVER STORY By Dave Hall

As One Door Closes, Another Opens . . .

Opportunity Knocks For Area Restaurants T

he Windsor area’s restaurant scene is everchanging with openings, closings and renovations happening on a monthly basis.

There’s more to expect in 2018 with some exciting announcements and openings across the city, encompassing cuisine from around the world.

While Lorelei’s Bistro has closed its doors after a successful run in Olde Walkerville in Windsor, there are new restaurants either already open or on the horizon across the Windsor and Essex County region including: Road Chef, Mare Nostrum Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar, El Guaco Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar, in a former Armando’s on Tecumseh Road East, NOLA’s in Walkerville, and The Grand Cantina in Ford City, as well as a re-imagined Toscana Restaurant and Wine Bar in South Windsor.

In addition, Van Niforos, Owner of The Penalty Box, a long-time fixture on Windsor’s casual dining scene, is seeking investors so he can expand and open a second location.

As well, Bill Kobrosli, Owner of The Factory House, is fresh off a major renovation project and menu update that has already paid dividends.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Reaume, Owner of Toscana, updates everyone on: Facebook. com/toscana.windsor that his 10 year old restaurant closes for renovations in early January. When it re-opens, Reaume plans to serve breakfast and dinner in a re-imagined space, which will include a small café at the front of the restaurant.

Plus, there is something brewing for beer aficionados as the long-awaited Sandwich Brewing Company in Old Sandwich Town has opened its doors to rave reviews.

NOLA’S: A Taste Of New Orleans

Chris Mickle of Protenders and the Dominion House recently launched NOLA’s, a new Creole/Cajun-style restaurant in the former Lorelei’s Bistro space at 1526 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor.

NOLA’s, a contraction of New Orleans, LA., serves a combination of Creole, deemed Acadian-style cuisine by purists, and Cajun, which is considered a twist on classic French cooking, according to Mickle, its owner.

“I love New Orleans’ food culture and

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At Nola’s, Server Deborah Dunne, Owner Chris Mickle (middle) and Executive Chef Robert Nesbit, welcome guests to experience Cajun/Creole flavours and the southern hospitably of a New Orleans style restaurant. There’s nothing like fried chicken on jalapeno and smoked cheddar corn bread waffles with a maple shallot aioli and a nice cool “Hurricane” drink! You can eat in the renovated dining room or enjoy drinks in the bar area, which are also pictured.

Photos by Rod Denis.

I thought Windsor was ready for some Louisiana-style fine dining,” says Mickle.

“We also have a lack of fine seafood offerings across the city and I think we will be able to deliver something truly unique.”

Rob Nisbet, a graduate of the Stratford Chefs School, has joined Mickle from Beach Grove Golf and Country Club.

Mickle and Nisbet spent a week in New Orleans just prior to opening NOLA’s, meeting with chefs and restaurant owners to refine their own new restaurant.

Among the menu selections are: classic jambalaya and gumbo, fried chicken over sweet potato waffles, blackened catfish, oysters and shrimp and crab ravioli.

Mickle plans to offer jazz on weekends B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

along with duelling pianos. More information on NOLA’s can be found at: Facebook.com/Nolaswindsor.

Lorelei’s Bistro

Mary Lambros has closed the doors at Lorelei’s Bistro, a popular Walkerville eatery which opened in 2013.

Lambros says she wasn’t actively looking to sell her restaurant but when buyers came along and made a solid offer, she decided to take it and focus on other projects.

“The best time to sell any business is when it’s successful,” believes Lambros. “We had a great run at Lorelei’s, but it was time to move on and try something different.”

She adds that NOLA’s, the new restaurant

in her old space, “is a great concept and I’m very excited about what they are doing.”

Lambros is currently in the middle of renovating and repurposing the former Monarch Mattress building directly across Wyandotte Street East from Lorelei’s.

It’s going to become a small community theatre space with an artists’ café, retail spaces and artist workshops. (Get more details on page 13 of this issue).

Mare Nostrum

The Owners of Mare Nostrum Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar, which opened in 2015 at 401 Sunset Avenue in Windsor, now have a second location at 16 Main Street West in Kingsville.

The Penalty Box

With a kitchen bursting at the seams, despite being expanded four times in 20odd years, The Penalty Box has become so popular that Owner Van Niforos is turning away business.

“It’s overwhelming,” Niforos admits.

“With the exception of some long-time clients, we are turning away catering opportunities because the kitchen is so busy with eat-in and take-out business.”

Niforos, opened his first restaurant on Dufferin Street in 1992. And since opening his current location at 2151 Walker Road in Windsor (PenaltyBoxRestaurant.com), the business has grown every year.

“We’re in a position now where I need some investors to come in and take over the existing location so I can focus on opening a second larger place to accommodate the business we are currently turning away,” comments Niforos.

Featuring its famous Chicken Delight and other casual dining staples, the restaurant remains a popular spot, but has outgrown its surroundings and according to its owner, parking remains an issue.

“We are going to keep the same concept and perhaps add a couple of menu items, but it would be ridiculous to make wholesale changes to something which still works and remains very popular,” he states. “But, it’s frustrating to see how much business we turn away.”

Niforos mentions he has a couple of potential new locations in mind and would like to move ahead with plans later this month.

Co-owners Ahmad Sanji, left, and Adam El-Dika are shown behind the bar of Mare Nostrum Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar, on the campus of the University of Windsor across from the Anthony Toldo Health and Education Centre. Photo by Dave Hall.

Mare Nostrum in Latin means “our sea.”

“We’ve been open near the University of Windsor for almost two and a half years,” notes Co-Owner Adam El-Dika.

“We’re affiliated with the university grad student society and lease the space from the university, but we operate autonomously.

Given our success, we believe the time is right to take on another location.”

The Windsor restaurant is across from the Anthony Toldo Health Education and Learning Centre and it has become a popular spot for students, faculty and the general public. (For more information refer to: UWmarenostrum.com).

As befitting a location close to a university with a diverse student body, the menu reflects that diversity. El-Dika, who co-owns the restaurant with Ahmad Sanji, says the Kingsville menu will be slightly condensed in the beginning and expand as warranted.

The restaurant’s eclectic menu features such items as hummus, falafel, cheese rolls, poutine, grape leaves, spinach pies, spicy chicken, curry cream chicken, wraps, sandwich, burgers and pasta selections.

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The Kingsville restaurant is in a space formerly occupied by Tony’s Panini’s and then Koi Sushi, which recently moved one door down from Mare Nostrum.

Road Chef

Six years after launching a food truck, Nick Finlay has opened his first bricks-andmortar location in a former pizza takeout building at 2390 Tecumseh Road West in Windsor.

His Road Chef menu leans towards upscale food truck items such as: vegan chili, roasted cauliflower, pulled pork poutine, chicken parmesan paninis, penne, arancini, turmeric and peppercorn chicken, along with a variety of daily specials.

Finlay says his food truck business is growing throughout the spring and summer months and he needed a larger kitchen to accommodate the increase in corporate and special events. In addition to the catering side, he offers take-out for all to enjoy.

Owner Nick Finlay playfully points at a menu board inside his Road Chef take-out and catering restaurant on Tecumseh Road West. It’s his first bricks-and-mortar restaurant after six years of operating a food truck.

Photo by Dave Hall.

“Operating a food truck only is difficult in this area because we don’t have the density of population for one thing,” remarks Finlay.

“Plus we are not allowed to operate in any of the Business Improvement Areas because they are very protective of their members and their bricks-and-mortar restaurants.”

He continues by saying: “So we’re somewhat limited in where we can set up,

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which means we have to rely on corporate events and private parties. We can customize a menu for all of these events, but we also have to take all our equipment with us.”

Finlay says the response to the new restaurant has been very positive since opening in late October 2017.

“I’m happy we’ve been able to bring food-truck-inspired food to the west end,” Finlay expresses.

For more information visit: RoadChef.ca.

The Sandwich Brewing Co., 3232 Sandwich Street, Windsor, is now open with a retail store and tap room. You can stay to try some suds along with a fresh locally baked pretzel or take home a growler or two. For Owners Scott Black (also the Brewer), Nicole Sekela and her brother Jason Sekela (all shown) it has been “an interesting and long journey, but well worth it!” Photo by Rod Denis.

Sandwich Brewing Co.

A three-year renovation project in a historic 120 year old building finally came to fruition, in late November, with the opening of Sandwich Brewing Co., a new craft brewery, 3232 Sandwich Street, Windsor next door to Rock Bottom Bar & Grill in Olde Sandwich Town.

“It was a real challenge and I can’t believe it’s finally here,” says Nicole Sekela who owns the new microbrewery (with Scott Black), as well as Rock Bottom with brother Jason and sister Carrie. “But, I think the anticipation has helped because we’ve been swamped with business since we opened the doors.”

Food offerings are limited to four cheeseand-meat platters, since the bar’s extensive gleaming stainless steel brewing equipment has left no room for a full kitchen.

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But, it’s the beer selections that will keep aficionados coming week after week.

They include a Breakfast stout, a Blood Orange American Wheat beer, a porter, an IPA and a British-style red beer.

Go to: SandwichBrewing.com or Facebook.com/sandwichbrewing for further details on this new brewery.

Windsor now has as many as 10 craft breweries, offering anything

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from full meals to small plate specials and charcuterie boards.

The Grand Cantina

A new offering in the Ford City neighbourhood is the brainchild of Tom Scully and John Alvarez, Co-Owners of F&B Walkerville, a successful fine-dining establishment just minutes away from their new venture.

“John and I see Ford City as having amazing potential and we believe many other entrepreneurs are looking to do something in the neighbourhood,” Scully comments.

“It’s just a stone’s throw from Walkerville, which is one of the hottest neighbourhoods in the city.”

Scully explains the restaurant is expected to open in January once minor cosmetic renovations and menu development is completed. The building, at 1000 Drouillard Road in Windsor, has been vacant for about nine years, but was previously home to Ledbetter’s, a bar and grill.

“The menu will not be completely Mexican although we do expect to serve tacos and home-made tortillas among many other items,” Scully reveals. “It will be essentially international street food with a variety of tequila and beer selections.”

Visit the website: TheGrandCantina.com.

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The Factory House

Just a few years after transforming the Maple Leaf Restaurant into The Leaf, Owner Bill Kobrosli has changed gears again with a complete retrofit of the restaurant at 5240 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor.

Now called The Factory House, the new design is industrial in style as befitting Windsor’s image as an industrial centre, says Kobrosli.

“You have to make changes because your customers’ expectations change and you have to anticipate what they want,” Kobrosli indicates. “You have to stay a step ahead if you want to remain popular and successful.”

Kobrosli informs Biz X that his new menu features many of the favourite dishes customers have come to expect, but the remaining 60 percent has been changed and updated.

In addition to the standard burgers, wings, wrap and pasta, the new menu also features tandoori flat bread, Thai crunch salad, quesadillas, stir frys, curry beef stew, and butter chicken. Check out the menu online at: FactoryHouse.ca to get your tastebuds going!

“It’s been very well received so far and we’re looking forward to building on that early success,” states Kobrosli. “We’ve had no complaints about the changes and that’s always a good sign.”

Change is Good

For foodies across the city and county, there’s no end to the choices and selections when it comes to wining and dining.

In fact, the only constant about the region’s restaurant scene is that it’s ever-changing. And that’s always a positive thing as variety is the spice of life!

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOR THOUGHT

K.O.M.A. Restaurant, 3090 Dougall Avenue, Suite 403, Windsor

By David Clark

W

hen you seek intimate and casual dining on that special night, consider K.O.M.A. Restaurant for an experience that is custom made for your discerning palette.

A creation of Michael Anthony Barlozzari, Owner/Operator and Chef, it is inspired by many previous dining experiences with family and friends.

“I want guests of K.O.M.A. to feel like they are at my home as friends enjoying good food and great company, because that is exactly how we see it,” Barlozzari states.

K.O.M.A. Restaurant stands for the Kitchen Of Michael Anthony and opened July 2015.

“I wanted to pay homage to my grandfather who’s namesake I bear,” he notes.

The atmosphere is comfortable at K.O.M.A. and the smaller size of the dining area gives the Chef the opportunity to look over what goes into the dining room and focus on his guests.

The connection between the Chef, his/her food and the guests, is more intimate with a cozy 44 seats. Barlozzari encourages future guests to make reservations due to the modest seating capacity.

Get your greens in an exotic, new way with the Tempura Asparagus Salad.

When it’s time to dine, you will be excited to see how complex and inviting the menu selections are. Additionally, other dishes can be customized to your own specifications.

K.O.M.A. also has Chef’s and pasta tasting menus available to assist you in planning that perfect night.

The pasta tasting dinner is $30 for three

Comfortable and stylish, this is where it all happens at K.O.M.A. Photos courtesy of Trevor Booth

courses and the Chef’s tasting dinner (small plates) starts at $45. Some guests bring in their own wine to complement the moment as well.

A beef lover’s dream, the Braised Beef Brisket with a bourbon beef stock reduction side and homemade ravioli finished with truffle and porcini mushrooms, is literally a mouthful.

A fine way to get your protein is to look into the panko encrusted Stuffed Chicken breast with goat and ricotta cheeses, pan roasted bacon, sun-dried tomato and caramelized onions in a champagne cream sauce, smothered in smoked gouda mash. A combination to die for!

When you are searching for a perfect starter, the sardella marinated Sashimi Tuna with fresh cucumber slaw and lemon simple syrup will give you that tangy exotic flavour you desire.

It’s always a good day for healthy choices and K.O.M.A. has plenty of them. The Arugula is a favourite pick with pork belly, tempura salad with a cognac carrot tarragon dressing.

A step above your average salad, the loaded Spinach Salad comes with all your greens and is mixed with a host of natural ingredients. The Tempura Asparagus Salad is another highly mentionable choice when you’re searching for seriously good and healthy food.

Whether you are creating a perfect dinner or having a family affair, the extensive wine

list at K.O.M.A. is full of recognized and new selections for you to enjoy.

Regarding special events catering for weddings, birthdays and related gatherings, K.O.M.A. has served over 245 people, at a time, off-site. They have supplied a full kitchen and a food truck on the premises to fully serve their clients.

“We’ve done everything from sliders, sushi to a whole roasted porchetta,” mentions Barlozzari.

Jump into the Sashimi Tuna and you’ll be in seafood heaven.

K.O.M.A. also does outbound cooking classes in their guests’ homes with customized food creations for the clients to learn about.

One of his secret ingredients to success is that Barlozzari believes a smaller restaurant allows him to pay particular attention to the details of running such a demanding operation.

“The customers are paying good money to eat here so I need to spend a lot of time overseeing the place and inspecting the food before it leaves the kitchen,” he informs Biz X. “I have learned over the years that the customer is paramount,” explains Barlozzari.

“They are the life of the restaurant and the purpose of cooking. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with the guests.”

For more information about K.O.M.A. and to keep up-to-date regarding hours/menu items, as well as to check out the latest events, visit their website at: KomaRestaurant.com.

Need more customers?

Advertise in Biz X Magazine and watch your tables fill up!

Call 519-977-2199 or email deborah@bizxmagazine.com to book your spot in our next issue!

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Windsor Roseland Rotary’s 22nd Annual “Wines Of The World”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT October 20, 2017 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Windsor’s annual premiere wine and culinary event was one not to be missed if you enjoy fine wine, beer and spirits plus lots of great food.

The fundraiser supported important local and international projects for Windsor Roseland Rotary (RoselandRotary.com). Their committee was represented in our photo by: Eileen Boyle, Anita Ouellette, Aruna Koushik, Joyce Jones (Event Chair), Paula Talbot, Marie Merschback, Joy Bertram, Julie Dragich and Cathy Frank.

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2. Merritt Makaric, Server from The River’s Edge Tap & Table in the Riverside area, dished out Brussel sprouts and tasty Mediterranean chicken made with fresh linguini, mushrooms, onions, black olives, red wine, bacon, spinach and feta, in a blush sauce that was a real crowd pleaser.

3. Owner of The Cheese Bar, Sarah Barrette gladly smiled as she said “cheese” for our photographer. Shown on her cheese trays were: Extra old cheddar from Cows Creamery, PEI; Oxford Harvest Garlic and Chive by Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, Woodstock, ON; and Maple Sweet Cheddar by Great Lakes Goat Dairy, Wyoming, ON. Barrette takes great pride in introducing 100% Canadian made Artisanal cheeses to the community.

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4. John Doyle, Certified Sommelier and Area Manager for Colio Estate Wines shows off their latest vintage, “Lily” sparkling wine Vin Mousseux Rose, as well as “Hat Trick,” a limited edition red wine that pays tribute to the game of hockey and those who love it. The NHL Alumni Association has partnered with Colio Estate Wines in a power play that combines experienced wine making, VQA grapes, and the Canadian spirit.

5. Head Baker, Brittany Keys uses only the sweetest local ingredients in her French pastries, while creating tasty treats for the local bakery, Klueless Cupcakes, where they make “Fresh cupcakes come to life!”

6. District Manager of Sales for Corby Spirit and Wine Ltd. Dino Ceccucci served up a taste of J.P. Wiser’s Lot No. 40 Rye Whiskey for the eager whiskey enthusiast, while Barb

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Cancian, Senior Cost Analyst offered tastings of Cabot Trail Maple Cream Liquor and Jacob’s Creek Classic Shiraz Cabernet.

Simone Ferris, Bulk Spirit Coordinator for

Corby, poured Pike Creek 10 Year Rum Barrel Finished Rye Whiskey and Godderham & Worts Canadian Whiskey to the many taste testers in line.

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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Get Ready For The Transformation Of Windsor Essex Healthcare Story And Photos By Joe McParland

C

hristmas Day 2017 arrived 24 days early for the Windsor and Essex region.

For it was on the first of December that Ontario Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Eric Hoskins, visited the Ouellette Campus of Windsor Regional Hospital (WRH) to announce the official go-ahead of the region’s new acute care hospital on County Road 42, the signature facility of a totally revamped health care system for this region.

In the opinion of many, this was one of the most positively consequential announcements this region has received in some time.

Among his many remarks, Hoskins cited Windsor Essex’s community engagement as one of the strongest aspects in pushing their bid ahead over other communities in the province.

“The community process that has been undertaken throughout this, over the years, with regards to the new hospital has been exemplary,” says Hoskins. “I do not know if I have seen a stronger community process in the province, quite frankly. You have done an exemplary job with regards to the community engagement process.”

Laying to rest the lingering concerns of some over the final site selection, Hoskins comments, “you know, typically, the Ministry looks to the LHIN (Local Health Integration Network) and the local hospital

to make decisions with regard to siting of new hospitals. There is an expectation, however, that there is a strong community process that underpins that recommendation.

I am confident that process was undertaken here in Windsor; but the Ministry and the government are not in the business of site selection. We really look to local leadership and local experts to make what they believe is the best decision and to do that through community consultation.”

And, so we begin 2018 with great optimism and enthusiasm that our local health care system has officially moved forward to Stage Two in the process of ushering in medical facilities and programs that we have been sadly lacking.

I had the opportunity to sit down with David Musyj, CEO of WRH, and discuss the impact of this decision for Windsor Essex and look back at the very beginning of what brought us to the announcement by Hoskins. Here are a few highlights of our discussion.

Biz X: David, I don’t want to rehash the process of actual site location, but focus on how the decision was made to go from two general hospital systems — WRH (Met and Ouellette Campuses) to one acute care or “mega hospital.”

Musyj: Joe, what many people don’t realize is that though we have two hospital facilities, we actually have one general

Crossing out the word “proposed” on the billboard located at the County Road 42 site of the future Windsor Essex Regional Acute Care Hospital from left are: Tom Bain, Lakeshore Mayor and Warden of Essex County; David Musyj, President & CEO of WRH; Janice Kaffer, President & CEO HDG Healthcare and David Cooke, former NDP Minister and MPP.

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hospital system operating at two different locations, each one providing services and medical care that the other doesn’t. Last year alone there were between 600 to 1,000 in-patient transfers between the two facilities.

Patients at the Met campus for example, who needed to cath had to be transported to the Ouellette campus and then returned to Met. Joe: How will one acute hospital remedy this situation?

Musyj: With one acute care hospital, all services will be under one roof and accessible to the region we serve.

Biz X: When did the concept of the one acute care hospital facility begin for Windsor Essex?

Musyj: In approximately 2008, the then WRH (Met Hospital) and the HDG Hospital (Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare on Ouellette) were required to submit to the Ministry of Health 10, 20, and 30 year plans on the viability of their facilities. Now remember, HDG has been in existence for more than 125 years, and Metropolitan Hospital since 1928. Through the years both hospital systems have undergone major reconstruction and expansion numerous times. The problem with both sites, aside from them having aged infrastructure, is that they are both landlocked, which limits future expansion. For example, HDG is located on just eight acres of property.

Biz X: What was submitted in the plans to the Ministry of Health?

Musyj: After extensive examination of facilities in consultation with building experts and authorities, it was deemed that $2.2 billion would be required to upgrade the two facilities. And with that, residents would be getting a deficient product, one that at best might provide adequate care in the short-term, with no possibility of improving in the years to come. WRH Met Hospital considered building a new facility on their current property where parking is located in the front, and tearing down the existing facility and replacing it with a parking structure. HDG really had no available land on which to expand. At HDG, there are actually floors that do not line up with one another; and elevators that go to certain floors, but not others. It has reached the end of its road in terms of updates.

Biz X: Were there any other factors working against maintaining two hospital locations?

Musyj: One of the most significant drivers for one acute care hospital was the establishment of the satellite Schulich School of Medicine at the University of Windsor. Both hospital campuses needed to find teaching space for the students; this is a requirement for communities obtaining a medical school. There was little or no classroom space for the medical students.

View a report and video coverage on Joe’s blog at: BizXmagazine.com Biz X: So how did the concept of the one acute care hospital enter the discussion?

Musyj: In 2012, Ontario Deputy Premier, Dwight Duncan, aware of the reports tendered to the MOH and the shortcomings of both hospital locations, recommended that a nonpartisan task force be established to investigate whether one acute care hospital would meet the needs of the Windsor Essex region. The task force consisted of David Cooke (NDP), Tom Porter (Conservative) and Teresa Piruzza (Liberal). They conducted exhaustive community consultation across Essex County examining the positives and negatives of moving to one acute care centre site. They conducted town halls, met with Mayors, city councils and variety of community interest groups, conducted radio call-in shows and a number of other information gathering sessions. That started in the spring of 2012 and the report was tendered in November 2012. The report concluded that there was overwhelming support for Windsor Essex to move to one acute care facility.

Biz X: What direction did the province give you with respect to the coverage area that a regional acute hospital, if built, would cover?

Musyj: When we received the letter from Deb Matthews, then Minister of Health, approving us to move forward in applying for funding for a mega hospital, she made it very clear that part of Stage One required that we not only do all the work that was outlined, but that we needed to site the hospital. In doing so we needed to take into account the regional aspect of this facility. We are not only serving Windsor Essex, but we serve the whole Erie St. Clair LHIN (Local Health Integration Network).

We will have to provide service to cardiac patients, cancer patients, NICU patients, and other tertiary services for the entire Erie St. Clair LHIN. So, we not only have to take care of residents from Windsor and Essex, but the entire LHIN — from Sarnia, from Chatham — all the way from London down.

To illustrate this point, on December 3, 2017 two days after the Hoskins’ announcement, the following was tweeted on Twitter by Lori Marshall, President and CEO of ChathamKent Health Alliance: @LoriBMarshall “A strong regional system needs all levels of care – thank you @DrEricHoskins for investing in @WRHospital to support residents of Chatham-Kent who access those services.” This area of responsibility benefits Windsor and Essex because we wouldn’t be able to support or sustain a cardiac — angioplasty program, neurosurgery program, NICU, cancer, etc. Windsor Essex benefits by serving the entire LHIN. With

Things are looking up for David Musyj and all of the Windsor Essex region.

just volumes from Windsor and Essex, physicians would not have the critical mass to support a practice, and they wouldn’t be able to develop the expertise they have.

Biz X: Are you saying that with the new acute care hospital, we will not only retain current programs and services, but possibly expand into new areas where patients currently travel to Detroit or London to receive them?

Musyj: I always prefer to “under-promise” and over-deliver. Two game changers have occurred in the past 10 years that have allowed us to recruit specialists far better than 20 years ago — the start of the Schulich School of Medicine in Windsor, and the planning of a new state-of-the-art acute care hospital. In the past when we recruited we were lucky to get one application. Now we are actually choosing from a list of recruits and conducting interviews because specialists are excited to participate in medical education and in the planning of a brand-new state-of-the-art acute care hospital.

Biz X: Hoskins seemed to surprise us in his announcement with news that he would like to have your group examine further the feasibility of maintaining perhaps part of the Ouellette Campus for some emergency/ ambulatory surgical procedures. What is your response to this?

Musyj: In our Stage One submission we proposed to construct a state-of-theart Urgent Care Centre on the old Grace Hospital site which would function like an emergency room for the many non-lifethreatening cases that tend to clog up the ERs. Minister Hoskins announced, and further explained in a later media scrum, the following: “Part of the discussions that are taking place on going forward, we’ve made the commitment to fund the health services required including the new hospital. But, specifically today, I said, and deliberately, B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

that we are now, continuing and deepening the discussion with regards to maintaining health services in the downtown core. So, what that looks like, I don’t know . . . the leadership that had been involved at every level on the conversation thus far, needs to continue that conversation and discussion when it comes to services for the downtown core. So, I’m not going to predict, or preempt, or suggest what that might look like because it’s obvious these are recommendations and proposals, so they’re best suited by those who are closest and have the expertise to determine what they might be.”

Biz X: So the Urgent Care Centre proposed for the Grace Hospital site is not necessarily a done deal . . . would you consider this statement correct?

Musyj: Throughout the process we have looked at the possibilities of the reuse of existing facilities. The Ouellette campus will still have a presence with Outpatient Mental Health Services and Chronic Disease Management. The province would like us to examine the feasibility of maintaining some emergency/ambulatory outpatient services.

As you know, funding has been budgeted for the construction of a new Urgent Care Centre on the old Grace Hospital site.

This is in addition to the construction and redevelopment of the current HDG Tayfour Campus with a new 60-bed acute mental health wing, the addition of dialysis services and the expansion of diagnostic imaging.

So, as we move forward, we will continue to examine Urgent Care delivery.

It should be noted, however, that the recently completed Humber River Hospital in Etobicoke went from three facilities to one acute care hospital, and during their process local authorities were asked to examine maintaining limited emergency/ambulatory outpatient care in one of the existing facilities. After exhaustive research, it was determined that could not occur, and everything was eventually located in the one new acute care hospital.

Biz X: Thank you and congratulations David, and to David Cooke, Janice Kaffer, President and CEO of HDG, and to all the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly to bring this to fruition.

Musyj: The Minister himself stated he knew and heard about the many volunteer hours that went into this process and submission. He stated his government was impressed regarding what they have heard throughout the years about our Windsor Essex hospitals project and how our community rallied around it. I cannot be prouder to have been born, raised and live in this region. It shows all of us anything is possible . . . nothing is impossible.

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TAKE THE LEAD

Leading World Speakers

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

I

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2018 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 17_90621_MSN_002

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_had the opportunity to attend the “Global Leadership Summit 2017” (a mix of live speakers and a video stream) in October last year. World-class speakers took the stage motivating the audience to change the world or at least change their world.

The speaker who attracted me to attend was Sheryl Sandberg, CEO of Facebook and former VP of Google. Her first book, “Lean In,” inspired a movement that led to over 30,000 women’s support circles.

Their goal is to support increased women’s representation. Women hold only 5% of Fortune 500 jobs, represent less than 25% of political office and live in a world where women run only 11 countries.

Sandberg’s interview, which was telecasted to all Global Summit sites, discussed her new book “Option B.” Sandberg wrote about the impact of her husband’s sudden death, her struggle to survive and how she learned to better support those grieving.

She talked about how to build them back up and the need to just show up and do something specific. Conference attendee Vanessa Joubert (Education Chair for Leadership Advancement for Women and Sport) felt this message of support was extremely valuable.

Youngest attendee 13 year old Dylan Kemp who studies martial arts, was “impressed by the advice of Juliet Funt, CEO of WhiteSpace.”

Juliet believes we have to “decrapify our workplace,” unburden ourselves of busywork and prioritize. This allows more time for thinking, creativity, strategy and execution.

One of the most interesting speakers was Fredrik Haren, a business creativity expert who has presented in more than 60 countries.

He emphasizes creativity in solving problems and his “Idea Book” is filled with quotes/exercises to get you inspired to fill the blank pages with ideas. His example of original thinking was a urinal with a sink above to increase hand washing.

A piece of advice from Bill Hybels was “Replace the How with Wow.” When someone comes up with an idea instead of letting your mind go to the “How” — details of cost, roadblocks and why not — let your mind say “Wow” and be open to the possibilities.

Stories and videos of “humanitarian leadership” such as fighting child/human B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh (right) with attendees Wally Silver (representing the Canada 150 theme at the event) and Cathy Innocente at the “Global Leadership Summit 2017” telecast at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Lakeshore.

trafficking, ending corruption in Brazil and police brutality in Africa were inspiring.

One profiled a solar pump business in Oklahoma that created a $20 hand pump inspired by a Leonardo da Vinci sketch and English patent. It has brought water to millions of people in 32 countries around the world.

John Pitzaferro (CEO of TransNational Bankcard) developed a bank card that gives all of the fees to non-profits.

One woman started making sandals in another country, hiring locals and using the profits to support them and pay for education scholarships.

Psychology Professor Angela Duckworth impressed me most.

Her book, “Grit — The Power of Passion and Perseverance,” reveals the characteristics of success in elite athletes, performers, and entrepreneurs. This “grit” that combines talent, passion and drive is what determines our success in life.

The final message by Hybels was “the most important thing you may do in your life may be to raise someone.” I would add, “raise someone or raise someone up” and that takes a lot of grit.

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is the new Director of Leadership and Training for United Way’s Leadership Windsor/Essex program(LeadershipWindsor-Essex.org).

She is a recently retired Principal and Chief Communications Officer for the Catholic School Board with over 30 years of experience as an educator, administrator, and community leader.

She is also an entrepreneur, owning a number of successful businesses over the years, allowing her to sharpen her business management skills in areas such as marketing, sales and social media.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESSWOMEN

By Rebecca Wright

JoAnne Muegge

Coaching People On Purpose To Be The Best

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he’s currently a life coach, facilitator, speaker and author, however, JoAnne Muegge’s professional past is just as diverse and dynamic — from being a teacher, business owner, consultant, Realtor and more.

Since she’s ventured on so many different career paths, she feels she is now able to be the guiding flame in the lives of others today.

That’s the notion that sparked Muegge to launch her company, The On-Purpose Lady (TheOnPurposeLady.ca) in February 2017.

The home-based business focuses on assisting individuals with life purpose coaching, making life transitions, sales and productivity coaching, and the skillful use of time.

“If you are looking for crystal clear focus in your life and want to become more organized and productive, more fulfilled, more peaceful, and have deeper meaning in your life, I can help you,” asserts Muegge.

She recalls working in the area of sales for more than 30 years — 28 of those years as a licensed Realtor, which she says was a very demanding occupation. After 13 years, though, Muegge admits she almost walked away from her successful career due to the stress of trying to juggle work and family.

That’s when, in 2001, she discovered the On-Purpose Programme and attended the course in Florida with the founder.

“That was the beginning of a new way of managing my entire life,” states Muegge. She says the results included how her professional and personal life became congruent, her production soared to new heights and her stress level went down considerably.

“I promised myself that when I retired from my real estate work, I was going to bring

JoAnne Muegge loves being an entrepreneur and being able to help others better themselves and their business practices.

Photo courtesy of Frank Michael’s Photography.

this to other busy people who want some help getting clear about how they want to structure their lives and what kind of legacy they wish to create,” recounts Muegge. “So I started this business out of gratitude for what I gained from this material and out of my love for people.”

In 2013, Muegge trained with Dr. Catherine Comuzzi, Master Coach and Psychotherapist with the Certified Coaching Federation, and it was then that she received her designation.

She is currently a certified facilitator and coach for the On-Purpose Personal Leadership Programme, which guides people through the challenges of daily living with a process to clearly define one’s personal purpose, vision, mission and values in an organized structure.

“This process helps one live a life of focus, personal power and improved productivity,” explains Muegge. The programme is presented as a weekend women’s retreat experience; as an eight-week group study at your place of business; in another setting for a mixed audience of women and men; or in private one-on-one guided study done in person, by phone or online.

“As an added bonus, you will become less

stressed, less scattered, less chaotic and less fatigued,” she mentions. “This course is a perfect way to launch a new year and really make some permanent changes towards a higher quality of life.”

Muegge’s personal expertise and coaching doesn’t follow a “cookie cutter” approach, rather she customizes each training and coaching to fit the individual, bringing purpose, vision, mission, values, skills and strengths into alignment — again with an emphasis on leading oneself to one’s highest potential.

She has a special desire to help busy business women with families who strive to juggle the daily demands to find clarity of purpose, strategic time management skills, specific priorities, focused productivity and peace of mind.

Her areas of expertise include: discovering your personal life purpose, recognizing your gifts, establishing priorities, increasing your productivity and career transitions.

“I think what sets my business apart is my life experience that I bring to my work,” Muegge believes. “It is a unique combination of skills and I have a sincere desire to help others.”

Muegge describes that her current business is her “encore career” and encompassing all the life skills and experience gained in her previous work. She strives to inspire others and remind them that life is short, so make the best of it.

“We only have one go-around at life,” she emphasizes. “This is not a dress rehearsal!

Make sure you’re putting your energies in the right areas of your life and that you become someone that you really like.”

XX FILES

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Bringing you all the action in the region since 1998.

To view more events visit: BizXmagazine.com

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

was there!

Let’s be frank. Beer and football go hand-in-hand and these two lovely ladies, Jada and Sadie (last names withheld) from Frank Brewing Co., had no problem passing out samples of this old fashioned beer brewed with four natural ingredients, water, hops, grain and yeast.

Jack Jorgensen (right), President & CEO of Advance Business Systems is beaming with pride after raising $11,000 for the Youth Advisory Committee of the Windsor Essex Children’s Aid Society from proceeds of the 26th annual “American Thanksgiving Football Classic.” The event was held on American Thanksgiving, November 23, 2017, at the Windsor Yacht Club, with the who’s who of Windsor on the invitation list including Goran Todorovic, Broker of Team Goran, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd., Brokerage (event sponsor).

Tracey Laforet and Bienka DiGiovanni, Owner and Technician of Uncover U Lasers in Tecumseh, were one of the official event sponsors of the 26th annual “American Thanksgiving Football Classic.” Read more about Advance Business Systems by visiting their website: AdvanceBusiness.net.

The area’s passion for football is the catalyst that has turned the Advance Business Systems event into one of the largest customer appreciation network parties in southwestern Ontario. Enjoying the networking, food, football and fun from left were: Chuck Thompson, Windsor Life magazine; Kyle Fanson, Patio Palace; Victoria Thompson, VIP Chauffeured Services Ltd. and Paul Fanson, Patio Palace.

The Salvation Army Ontario Great Lakes Division held its third annual “Hope in the City Luncheon,” in partnership with the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918), at the Caboto Club in mid November 2017. The special guest speaker was former Detroit Lions Quarterback Eric Hipple (middle).

Since his teenage son Jeff’s suicide in 2000, Hipple has devoted his life to building awareness and breaking down the stigma surrounding depressive illnesses. He is shown with two special Biz X magazine guests; Keith Henry, (left) Honorary Lt. Colonel 31 Service Battalion (Windsor) and President of Windsor Mold, Inc. and Andrew Stewart, Lt. Colonel (Retired) Royal Scots Dragoons Guards, affiliated with the Windsor Regiment (RCAC). Stewart served in the British Army for 38 years.

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All photos by Rod Denis The Mainstream Marketing team, made up of Mackenzie Kelly, Marketing Assistant (left); Matt Dunlop, Director of Marketing and Mary Moore, Operations Manager, were sponsors of “Hope in the City Luncheon,” as well as the designers of the promotional materials that the Salvation Army uses for this campaign.

(With ads in Biz X magazine of course!)

The 2017 kettle campaign kick-off was held during the luncheon with representatives from left: Shannon Wise, Public Relations & Development Representative, Ontario Great Lakes Division; Windsor board members Bill Marra and Colleen Mitchell; Gerald Pocock, Windsor Advisory Board Chair; Leslie Weingust, Kettle Coordinator; Major Paul Rideout, Director of Community & Family Services and Major Everett Barrow, Divisional Commander.

Find out more on this charity by visiting: SalvationArmyWindsor.ca

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On November 16, 2017 the 20th anniversary celebration for the “Cops Care for Kids Gala, Fashion Show & Silent Auction” was held at the Ciociaro Club of Windsor, 3745 North Talbot Road with proceeds to benefit programs supported through the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation. Forty plus volunteers worked tirelessly to organize the event and were extremely busy during the evening, but we managed to round up these committee members, from left: Nicole Burton, Shelley Gignac, Shawn King, Michelle and Sandi Rocheleau, Lori Jeffery and Tina Gatt (Manager, Community Outreach Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society).

Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society is dedicated to the well-being and safety of every child by advocating for, and partnering with, children, families and communities. Pictured with John Beer, Chief Financial Officer (left), were Kim Brisebois, Senior Service Director; Terry Johnson, Interim Executive Director and Lyle Ward, Senior Service Director.

In a show of solidarity, police were in out in full force from the Windsor, Essex and Kent County areas in support of the “Cops Care for Kids Gala.” From left: Sergeant Mike Gruszka, Chatham-Kent O.P.P.; Chief Al Frederick, Windsor Police Services; Superintendent Brendan Dodd, Operational Support, Windsor Police Services; Deputy Chief Vince Power, Operations, Windsor Police Services; Deputy Chief Chuck Scanlan, LaSalle Police Services; Deputy Chief Rick Derus, Support, Windsor Police Services; Detective Sergeant Duncan Davies, LaSalle Police Services; and Inspector Glenn Miller, Essex County OPP. They lined up between two new police vehicles. The Dodge Charger (right), Windsor Police Service’s one-of-kind 150th anniversary cruiser, earned the 2018 award for “Canada’s Best Dressed Police Vehicle.” The award is given out annually by Blue Line, a national magazine for Canada’s law enforcement agencies.

Laura and Mark Jacques also were in attendance to represent The Benefits Company, a ruby sponsor of the gala.

Guests at the gala included from left: Ashley Bondy, Patrick Mallay, TD Canada Trust, Bob Fenton, Brinley Gatt, Alyssa Gatt (child), Tina Gatt (CAS); Scott Allen, Chief Operating Officer of Integrity Tool & Mold (another ruby sponsor of the gala) and Diane Fenton.

The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) held its sixth annual “Winterfest Holiday Parade” in late November 2017. Before the parade began, the 2017 Grand Marshall Ernie Whitt attended a meet and greet at the Coffee Exchange, 266 Ouellette Avenue. Whitt is a Toronto Blue Jays legend and the current Manager of the Canadian National Baseball team. In the accompanying photo he is greeted by Jeremy Renaud (left), DWBIA Celebrity Guest Coordinator.

All photos by Rod Denis B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

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“Cheers To 20 Years” Presented By W.E. Care For Kids

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT November 3, 2017 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor.

Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1 1. Two of the founders of W.E. Care for Kids (Windsor Essex Care For Kids Foundation, WeCareForKids.org), Bill Micelli and Alan Defoe were congratulated by Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens (middle) for their work in raising funds for paediatric healthcare programs in Windsor and Essex County. In 2017 W.E. Care for Kids raised a grand total of $430,000. The other founding member was Dr. Joe Galiwango (deceased).

2. The 20th Anniversary Gala Planning Committee was made up of plenty of girl power with: Leah Hanson, Melissa McMahon, Ashley Weeres, Ida Sproule, Darcie Valente, Shanna Komsa, Shawna Lesperance and Camille Cecchin.

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3. Darcie and Peter Valente are long time supporters of W.E. Care for Kids and were an “Appreciation” sponsor. Darcie was a member of the gala committee and sits on the W.E. Care for Kids Board of Directors.

4. Ken Quinn (President of Quinn Roofing Solutions) and his wife Sue were “Dedication” and Live Auction sponsors at this year’s event which drew 350 attendees.

5. Each year the W.E. Care Board members honour those who have gone above and beyond with their assistance. This year the Spidalieri family received the “Founders Award” for making a significant contribution and playing a key role in the success of the organization. (Standing): Jake Menard, Marla Spidalieri (W.E. Care for Kids Director), John Spidalieri and Mitchell Welacky. (Seated): Brynn Higginbottom, Adrianna Spidalieri, Tianna Spidalieri and Myriah Spidalieri.

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3 6. Camille and Dave Cecchin, President of Omega Tool also have been supporters of W.E. Care for Kids events and campaigns for many years. They were “Appreciation” sponsors for the 20th Gala and are shown pictured with their guests: Stacy and David Baker, Shannon and

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Mike Brain (W.E. Care for Kids Director), Camille (W.E. Care for Kids Director) and Dave Cecchin, and Kelly and Frank Murgic.

7. In the entranceway to the gala, Antony Taouil, Kristen Taouil, Judy and Kevin O’Neil, Sandra and Steve O’Neil, and Kerri O’Neil and Mike Silveira posed in front of the 20th anniversary special wall. A “Founders Award” also went to Kevin O’Neil who served on the W.E. Care for Kids Board of Directors for over 10 years. His hands-on approach by way of the “Oldtimers’ Hockey Challenge,” over a 14 year period, brought in more than $200,000 in donations.

8. Another big supporter, Jody Braithwaite and Fo Abiad, CEO and President of Windsor Textiles Ltd./WINTEX Safety, enjoyed their evening at the gala with our photographer grabbing a shot of the group at their table — Nicole Hebert, Jerry Kavanaugh, Lisa and Jeff Fraba, Jody Braithwaite, Fo Abiad, and Jeff and Amy Pinch.

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9. The Rauti family also contribute to W.E. Care for Kids through donations and sponsorships. Joseph, Dave, Mary, Joe, and John and Michelle Rauti of Joe Rauti Custom Homes in LaSalle were “Dedication” sponsors at this year’s gala.

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portfolio corner

Dear Mom & Dad: Part III

By Steven Mayo Today’s message to parents: Transfer knowledge before wealth.

In my previous “Dear Mom & Dad” articles (published last year and found on: BizXmagazine.com in “Back Issues”) I was encouraging parents to teach teens/young adults about budgeting, banking, cheque writing, legal issues when they turn 18 years of age, and so on. Quite frankly, money and stress go hand in hand, but I recommend parents pass on knowledge before wealth so that your children are allowed time to develop an understanding of their future financial responsibilities, so they are not intimidated about the decisions that will face them.

In a recent report by Price Waterhouse Coopers entitled “Millennials Don’t Seek Financial Help,” millennials are described as a “high impact generation with the ability to influence the national and global economy in new and significant ways. ” However, the report also touches on the challenges millennials face

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when it comes to financial literacy.

The top eight challenges include: limited financial knowledge, unhappiness with their current financial situation, worry about student loans, debt that intersect economically and educationally, being financially fragile, being heavy users of Alternative Financial Services (for example: payday loans, cash advances, etc.), sacrificing retirement accounts, and not seeking professional help.

Financial stress is actually ranked the highest stress for many Canadians. So, parents must also have their financial house in order, and hopefully be better able to pass on good habits to the next generation.

Stress reduction often begins with a financial plan and the plan often starts with “spend less and save more.” This can be a big hurdle for many families, for which I have great empathy, but this basic discipline has to be recurring.

Millennials in this report listed a number

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

of fears. As such, when they do seek an Advisor, it is the Advisor’s responsibility to discuss financial topics in a manner that addresses their fears.

When surveyed, the top three characteristics millennials look for in an Advisor include . . .

1. Ability to provide personalized advice 2. Knowledge and experience 3. High level of service and ongoing communication Hopefully, a team approach with parents and advisors can be of benefit. It rests upon the parents to encourage discussion and questions. We all need to keep our financial knowledge on track and we need to equip the next generation by building their confidence and preparedness.

The benefit down the road is that our kids can assist us in our old age! That should be sufficient incentive for those in their ’40s, ’50s, and ’60s.

Let’s end as always with a quote: “The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.” ~ Bertrand Russell Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based

Bienvenue

‫أﻫﻼ ﺑﻚ‬

Bienvenida

歡迎光臨 Welcome

Welcome to Windsor

Come and visit us at any of our locations

We assist newcomers to Canada

City of Windsor 660 Ouellette Ave. Windsor, Ontario N9A 1C1 Tel: 519-258-4076 Fax: 519-258-9953

NCCE Inc. Midtown Branch 1214 Ottawa St., Suite 300 Windsor, Ontario N8X 2E6 Tel: 519-419-5461 Fax: 519-968-2405

NCCE Inc. Youth Resource Centre 654 Ouellette Ave. Windsor, Ontario N9A 1C1 Tel: 519-258-4076 Fax: 519-258-9953

NCCE Inc. Newcomer Reception Centre 443C Ouellette Ave. Windsor, Ontario N9A 4J2 Tel: 519-985-6333 Fax: 519-985-6393

NCCE Inc. Main Site

• Language & Labour Market Training • Settlement & Orientation Services • Childrens’ Program and Services • Employment Services • Youth Resources Centres

www.ncceinc.org

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

NCCE Inc. Windsor-West Branch 3235 Sandwich St. Windsor, Ontario N9C 1A9 Tel: 519-254-2001 Fax: 519-254-7882

Immigration, Réfugiés et Citoyenneté Canada B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

Municipality of Leamington NCCE Inc. Leamington Branch 24 Oak St., East, Unit 7 Leamington, Ontario N8H 2C2 Tel: 519-326-6224 Fax: 519-326-9739

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MAKING A SOUND LIVING

A

The Sweet Smell Of Success For Athena Bass And Paulina Bertoia Vrozos

By Lori Baldassi

n Interior Designer from Toronto and an ex-wife of rock from Los Angles, walk into a bar and walk out business partners.

Reads like a set up for a joke, doesn’t it? It’s no joke; that’s pretty close to how Paulina Bertoia Vrozos (PBV), an Interior Decorator from Toronto and Athena Bass (AB), former “Ex Wives of Rock” cast member and drummer for the all-femaleband “Femme Fatale” met. And I had the opportunity to recently conduct a phone interview with these two hard working ladies and below is the transcript.

Biz X: How did you meet?

AB: I met Paulina through a mutual Canadian friend who was helping me sell my candles in Los Angeles and they knew Paulina was looking for candles for her business in Toronto.

Biz X: Paulina, did you feel right away that you clicked business wise with Athena?

PBV: I was doing some interior design and was really sick of the smell of most candles that were being used when decorating homes.

I had been given one of Athena’s candles as a gift and thought it was beautiful. I went to Los Angeles to meet her and we just clicked right away. I found we had so many things in common friends, music, clothes, a love of animals and then we started to talk about candles. We both agreed that a scent creates a memory or transforms you in time. We decided there and then to create a whole new line. We just kept talking and talking. That’s how Athenaromas came to be.

Biz X: What kind of balance does your business partnership have?

AB: For me, a scent can change my whole mood. I love them and live by them. As far as business, I was too busy with other things and I was doing it all alone. The time and energy I was putting into it became a

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fulltime job. I was stuck where I was and ready to stop.

PBV: It was a one-man show and sometimes you can’t wear every hat. The best thing about Athena is she’s open and non-judgmental. We wanted each scent to reflect light and positivity. We have a lot of options right now.

Biz X: How long have you been putting this together, from the time you met to the time you decided to launch a product together?

PBV: It’s taken a year of back and forth.

We have totally upped the whole line with researching essential oils and fragrances, their effects and purposes as well as wicks and vessels. We are in production with a totally new concept that we can’t talk about right now, but we are very excited about.

AB: We came across a number of things about candles for instance and we didn’t want to put candles out there just because it smells good. Smelling good doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Today people are super health conscious and the list is endless of what’s healthy and what’s not, like lead free, not tested on animals, those sort of things.

Biz X: What else did you discover?

PBV: When I was doing interior decorating for clients I would notice everyone would burn candles in their homes. I get migraines really easy, especially when I’m around cheap scents. I talked to my clients who said they were getting headaches all the time and the pets weren’t well either.

I found they had a different scent in each room — one’s watermelon, another apple, yet another coconut — I thought, no wonder everyone is sick.

Biz X: How did you come up with the name?

AB: Paulina came up with the name.

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Athena Bass is a multi talented musician artist and entrepreneur whose spirit of enthusiasm is contagious.

Photo courtesy of Marlo Photography.

PBV: Athena is obviously Athena’s name. I’m also half Greek so Athens, there was that. Aromas clearly the scent, but I’m half Italian, therefore Roma, so that’s the name Athenaromas.

Biz X: What makes your candles different from any other candles?

PBV: It’s not like anything anyone has ever had before and that’s a tough thing to say. I can say that our product is the highest quality wax, has organic oils, and is environmentally friendly. We didn’t think it would take this long, but we are both perfectionists and we wanted the very best and won’t launch until we are both satisfied.

There will be no shortcuts.

AB: I have people constantly asking me, “Come on, where are these candles?”

Nothing is coming out until we both feel it’s perfect.

Biz X: Where is your product being made?

Paulina Bertoia Vrozos is a successful interior decorator with an eye for balance, beauty and business with a splash of rock n’ roll. Photo courtesy of Blaz Vrozos.

PBV: We would like to have it made in Canada, but we are exploring all our options right now.

Biz X: You live in different countries and are both involved in other projects. How do you come together for this business?

PBV: It’s tough because we are not even in the same time zone. We are on the phone emailing and face timing constantly. It’s all being done in Canada. Even when I’m in the lab I face time her.

AB: It’s not unusual for Paulina to face time me at two in the morning, my time, like a mad scientist with her lab coat on asking me about a product.

Biz X: Do you see any pitfalls as two women in business today?

PBV: I think it’s our time. It’s really empowering that you look around and women are running the world. When women put their heart and soul into something they usually end up loving what they’re doing.

I think that’s how we are programmed.

Even if you get flack from someone as a woman, your passion says you’re not going to stop me.

AB: I see no pitfalls whatsoever. If you love it, it’s not hard and you look forward to working on it. We are having a really good time doing this.

Biz X: What advice would you give people

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

thinking of starting a business?

PBV: If you’re doing it for the money, don’t do it. You have to love what you’re doing. If you’re doing something for the wrong reason, you’re not going to be successful. You have to have an element of love, interest and passion in what you’re approaching. There are ideas all the time. If your heart isn’t in it, you’re going to give up when it gets tough.

AB: Testing of the product to influential clientele has been more than positive. We are so excited about what we are doing.

We are already talking about what we can do in the next five years. It’s like there’s no end to ideas. We get so ahead of ourselves at concepts and the limitlessness of it.

The official launch takes place in Los Angeles and Toronto, with plans to launch in Europe. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook, or for updates check their website:Athenaromas.com.

From backstage to the airwaves or leading the organizing committee Lori Baldassi has been in and around the music industry for over 20 years. Lori has sat on a number of boards of directors and focused on charity/non-profit committees for concerts/festivals bringing in name acts. She has also spoken in front of the CRTC. If you have any questions for her please email: editorial@bizxmagazine.com.

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HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT Stigma Enigma’s “Mingle For Mental Health”

November 11, 2017 at The Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. This year’s event featured “An Evening With Silken Laumann” Canadian Champion Rower.

Laumann discussed her personal challenges with mental health issues and how, after a devastating rowing accident, her right leg was shattered and deemed by doctors as useless. Laumann logged in hours of painful rehabilitation and five operations to make the greatest comeback in Canadian sports history and won the bronze medal in the 1992 Olympics. Local family physician, Dr. Patrick X. Smith, Director of Stigma Enigma, stood proudly with Laumann, working together as champion mental health advocates!

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2. The committee of Stigma Enigma presents the “Sophie Smith Scholarship Award” annually to a full time undergraduate student in year four of the Doctor of Medicine programs who plan to complete their residency in psychiatry and are enrolled at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry — University Of Windsor campus. In the photo shown were: Sophie’s father, Mark Smith and Dr. Patrick Smith who presented the award to this year’s recipient Shiloh Ricciotti, alongside the 2016 award winner Sabrina Botsford, and Gordon Orr, President and Chair, Maryvale Board of Directors.

3. Now in their fourth year, the committee members of Stigma Enigma have worked hard at chipping away the stigma that tags along with mental health issues. All proceeds from the event are donated to Maryvale Adolescent and Family Services, to help hire a psychologist to work with local teens. Committee members present for this photo include: Chuck Smith, Paul Carter, Darlene Kennedy, Mary Bondy, Sante Salvador, Amanda Hermiz, Dr. Patrick Smith, Cristina Melnik, Christine Prymack, Randy Semeniuk, Jenna Smith, Jane Meriano, Shannon Fuhr, Jennifer Grbevski, Dennis Byrne, Julie Davis, Peter Cusumano and Connie Martin. Find out more about this group at: StigmaEnigma.ca.

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3 4. Gus Revenberg Chevrolet Buick GMC were major supporters of the evening. Employees (and family) from the dealership — Amanda, Marie and Till Letteri, Jana and Andrej Kljajic and Daniela and Rob Schuck — enjoyed the wonderful meal, live music, key note address

by Laumann and bidding in the silent auction prizes.

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5. Among the 500 guests in attendance at the 2017 “Mingle For Mental Health” also included sponsors such as: the owners of Infinity RX Group — Mark Vickers, Vince Gauthier and Stan Francic.

See more event pics at: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there!”

THE WAY IT WAS

Through The Ranks, Military Gender Integration

By Andrea Grimes

W

ith the Canadian government’s establishment of the Canadian Women’s Army Corps in 1941, more than 45,000 volunteers were recruited for full-time military service in the women’s divisions of the Army, Air Force and Navy.

In providing non-combative support to our armed forces, Canadian women were instrumental in bringing about the Allied victory. Why did so many women enlist?

Understandably, patriotism was one reason!

Major Catherine Wollocombe CD, Officer Commanding Windsor Support Company of 31 Service Battalion, followed in the footsteps of her grandfather, Lt. Gordon Macpherson who served with the 5th Northumberland Fusiliers in Passchendaele and the Battle of the Somme. Wollocombe wore her grandfather’s sword at the 31 Service Battalion’s “Freedom of the City” ceremony in June 2017.

“In May 1981, at the age of 17, I enlisted with the 21 Windsor Service Battalion as an Administrative Clerk,” she informs us.

During Wollocombe’s 37-year military career, she served over 15 years at the Strategic level developing and implementing policy in Ottawa, which changed the definition of the Primary Reserves. From 1989 to 2009, Wollocombe served with 31 Canadian Brigade Group Headquarters in London, Ontario and never looked back.

In 2010, Wollocombe took the position of Second in Command of Windsor Support Company and in 2012 took command of Windsor Support Company of 31 Service Battalion.

“In January 2018, I will serve as part of a United Nations mission as Deputy Task Force Commander during a six-month tour in South Sudan,” she notes.

Major Wollocombe’s uniform up close. Photo courtesy of Ed Goodfellow.

When nearing her 18th birthday, Olga Schutz had a powerful drive to serve Canada.

“I needed grounding in so many aspects of my life,” Schutz states. “In 1961, I enlisted with the RCAF and while stationed at St. Hubert, Quebec served as a Clerk Admin 1st Class to the Air Vice-Marshall of Air Defence Command until 1964.”

During this deployment, Schutz received her Leading Airwoman accreditation.

In 1964, a four year RCAF NATO posting to Baden Baden and Zweibrucken, Germany came up. As Schutz had twice refused an offer of marriage (to the man she eventually married), she made the decision to return to civilian life furthering her career in business administration.

Schutz concludes, “Military service gave me the confidence, pride, strength, and determination to be the best — following in the footsteps of all who served Canada and fought so bravely to give us our freedom to live in a democratic nation.”

In the ’50s, Bonnie Drago worked as a Bell Canada Information Operator when she heard

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about girls in the Canadian Navy. Drago says, “That set me on a path to one of the best experiences of my life.”

In 1958, at 20 years of age, Drago enlisted with the Royal Canadian Naval Reserves as a Medical Assistant serving on the HMCS Cornwallis. It was such a positive experience that Drago signed on for active service to train and work as a Medical Assistant in Halifax, Shelburne N.S. and Victoria B.C. until her discharge in 1963.

Drago recalls, “My medical training was a welcome surprise as I had never thought of pursuing a nursing career. The biggest difference between those days and now is that women in our Canadian Armed Forces are deployed to tours of duty aboard our Canadian ships.”

Métis citizen, Shelly Claus enlisted with the SIGNALS (the telecommunications services to the Army responsible for the operations and maintenance of all communications systems) in 1985 at the age of 23, serving as a Teletype Operator at CFB Ottawa, Calgary, and Petawawa. “From 1991-92, I served a six-month UN tour in the Golan Heights (Middle East),” Claus outlines.

For her duty and service, Claus was presented with the United Nations Disengagement Observation Forces and Canadian Peacekeepers Service medals prior to being honourably discharged in 1995.

Claus adds, “Our CAF has changed for the better over the years. Now women can join any trade, go on any tours and reach their goals without discrimination.”

Through discipline aligned with values, ambition, and accomplishments, Wollocombe, Schutz, Drago and Claus speak to the legacy of service — a tribute to Canadian women who rallied to the colours!

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ask the experts

Developing A Few Concrete Ideas To Improve Your Home

By Dave Halliday

W

hen you bought your home you saw the big picture. You saw the positives and the possibilities.

The longer you have lived here though you seem to notice more and more flaws that were previously undetected. There is nothing majorly wrong with the house, but it’s just more everyday items that catch your eye now.

One of the areas this is particularly relevant to is the existing exterior concrete around your home. The concrete foundation of the house is fine so there are no worries with respect to the integrity of the structure, but the sidewalk around the side of the home is uneven in places. The driveway has uncontrolled cracking and is also uneven in many areas. Lastly, the patio in the back yard seems to be disintegrating and weathering at an ever advancing rate.

All of these items, previously unnoticed, are now becoming significant issues as you go about your daily functions around the house.

The blade of your snow shovel is chipped and damaged from the uneven pavement, you’ve caught your toe on the edge of the cracking, and who knows what could happen if anyone ever trips on the uneven driveway surface. It’s time to renew your concrete!

We at Biz X contacted the knowledgeable folks over at Wincrete Concrete Specialist (7011 North Townline Road, Amherstburg; Facebook.com/Wincrete.ca) to gather some information and tips for your potential work. Wincrete has been taking care of the concrete needs of the residents of Essex County for the past three years, and Wincrete Owners Denis Skenderovic (Director) and Victor Dimitriu (Founder), were more than happy to share their combined 25 years of experience with us.

What types of services does Wincrete provide? “Wincrete is a full service concrete contractor providing (but not limited to) the following services; concrete driveways, sidewalks, patios, porches, drainage, excavating, grading, foundation work, full scale custom design and install, repairs including remove and replace of existing concrete structures,” Skenderovic lists. “We also re-surface, concrete counter tops (pre-cast), concrete fireplaces, fire pits, concrete benches and architectural designed concrete features.”

What should a consumer be provided with from a prospective concrete

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The Wincrete team hard at work — from left: Mike Ditty, Vic Dimitriu and Denis Skenderovic — finish a driveway, in a traditional rosette pattern, by hand. Photo courtesy of Wincrete.

contractor prior to beginning the work?

“Consumers are not typically contractors and a simple price point should never be presented without a direct outline of expenses and phases of the project they are looking to have completed,” states Dimitriu.

“The home owner should be provided with a general education on what it is they are spending their money on and what will yield the best result both financially and esthetically.”

What type of issues can the consumer potentially avoid by hiring a professional contractor such as Wincrete? “As a homeowner the decision to hire a contractor to perform concrete work is crucial,” replies Skenderovic. “In a world full of deal makers and fly-by-night contractors, this decision is very important and the risks are obvious; poor installation and poor results.”

Should a reputable contractor assist the client in obtaining building permits and planning of their concrete work? “Yes!” Skenderovic declares. “At Wincrete we are always in contact with the townships to meet different requirements that are necessary for the work we perform. We pull permits and follow up with inspectors to ensure the home owner is getting the job done properly to the expectation of their municipality, providing peace of mind to all parties involved.”

How important is the preparation of the material beneath the proposed concrete slab? “The need for a proper sub-base for concrete placement is of utmost importance,” stresses Dimitriu. “In southern Ontario we face climates which are extremely harsh on concrete slabs. Aggressive and frequent freeze thaw cycles add complications to any project.”

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How important is the finishing process?

“The concrete ordered from your local ready mix provider is engineered for your specific needs on the project you are completing,” Skenderovic answers. “Multiple things come into play, such as humidity, application, wet or dry base, wind, temperature, sun exposure, water added on site, and vertical application.” He continues by adding, “Finishing concrete too early, or running behind on the finishing process — and the use of tools made of different materials, such as steel, magnesium and wood, plays a large factor in certain finishes. Knowing when, why and how is why you call the specialists.”

What would you say are the most common mistakes made when placing concrete? “We believe the most common mistake made when placing concrete is much more than just one thing,” Skenderovic points out. “Every situation is different and every minute of sunshine or gust of wind can change the game. The concrete dictates how it needs to be placed and a humble contractor will overcome adversity to ensure it is placed correctly.”

The change in the exterior of your home, now that you have the new driveway, walkways, and patio, is obvious! It is amazing to you that you walked past the broken cracked pavement that was previously there without realizing how much better it would be when renewed.

The contractor took the time to properly prepare the new granular base with a wellgraded, fully compacted material that should save your snow shovel (and toes!) from the effects of winter freeze/thaw cycles in our area.

from the bookshelf

Mystery Novels To Curl Up With By The Fire

By Marlene Markham-Gay

M

arisa De Franceschi is a local author who has written an intriguing new mystery novel, “Waiting for Chrysanthemums” published by Longbridge Books. She previously has written prose poetry “Random Thoughts”, a short story collection “Family Matters” and a novel titled “Surface Tension.”

De Franceschi has twice been the recipient of the “Okanagan Short Story” Award.

Readers from this area will be able to identify with watching the magnificent fireworks display each summer on the Detroit River and will recognize several buildings and geographical locations in this novel. The timeline is the 1980s, a man is murdered at the Freedom Festival pyrotechnical display, while everyone’s eyes are focused on the sky. The body is discovered to the horror of the upscale guest on the terrace of a fashionable hotel. Champagne glasses are forgotten as the guests move past the murder scene and are filled with fear.

The suspense builds chapter after chapter as Lily’s husband becomes a suspect, she continues to unravel the clues and the possible suspects, who are responsible for the crime.

A sub plot is interjected into the story when Lily’s beloved grandmother becomes a victim of a serial rapist.

De Franceschi has worked her expertise with plot and characters to produce an intriguing story that will keep you in suspense. Long winter nights, and a glowing fire are the perfect backdrop for reading “Waiting for Chrysanthemums.”

You may purchase this novel in Windsor at: Juniper Books, 1990 Ottawa Street; Coles Bookstore, Tecumseh Mall and Chapters, Devonshire Mall.

Next up, John Schlarbaum’s latest murder mystery “Abandoned: A Jennifer Malone Mystery,” will keep you reading late into the night.

A local novelist, Schlarbaum has co-owned a bookstore, written for television and penned novels as well as working as a private investigator. Newspaper reporter Jennifer Malone is a favourite character of fans of his mystery novels.

“Don’t let me die” are the last words of an elderly patient at the local hospital as she is wheeled into surgery. These last words are repeated through out the novel to uncover a killer in this mystery.

Malone is very intrigued by the story that Luke, the patient transfer attendant, tells her of Helga Klemens and her strange last words on the way to the operating room.

A John Doe in the morgue, a suspicious coroner, and family secrets all lead to a web of lies and murder.

Malone solves the mystery as to why Mrs. Klemens was dead one hour after she entered the operating room, but not without twists and turns along the way that are very entertaining. Treat yourself to a good murder mystery this winter as you enjoy the longer evenings and snow days.

“Abandoned” can be purchased in Windsor at Biblioasis, 1520 Wyandotte Street East; Story Tellers, 1473 Ottawa Street; PB Books 3947 Tecumseh Road East and Juniper Bookstore, 1990 Ottawa Street.

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

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Awards Spotlight 1

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“THE 20TH ANNUAL BIZ X AWARDS GALA” AT ST. CLAIR COLLEGE CENTRE FOR THE ARTS, 201 RIVERSIDE DRIVE WEST, WINDSOR NOVEMBER 17, 2017.

THEME: “Emerald City: There’s No Place Like Home!”

All people listed from the left. Photos by Rod Denis and Lori Deschaine.

1. Diane Spencler-Glover of Designs by Diane and her husband Jay Glover brought our “Emerald City” to life with rich linens, centrepieces, hanging chandeliers, green drapery, a castle scene for the stage and a “haunted forest” photo backdrop. We had it all including plenty of Wizard of Oz props like a “Wicked Witch of the West” which talked, a “Glinda the Good Witch” dress exhibit, cut outs of characters and even Toto in a basket!

2. Collins Formal and Mens Wear had the Biz X Award Judges, family, emcee and celebrity presenters looking very debonair in their tuxes with brilliant emerald vests and ties. Our only female Judge LouAnne Hunt is pictured with Jason Kerluck, Justin Barker, Charlie Hotham, Bill Marra and Joe Montaleone.

3. Entertainers Pat Pagano and Nino Palazzolo impressed the guests with their spin on songs with the word “home” in the lyrics to start off the evening’s festivities.

4. Preparing to follow the yellow brick road to enter the gala, were reps with the Motor City Community Credit Union, Sponsor of the “Opening Reception”: Jennifer Jubenville, Becky Langlois and Sonia Lenhardt.

5. From the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre, Sponsor of the Business & Service section are: David and Kathy Bellamy with Lina and Tom Williams.

6. “Outstanding New Business Of 2016”:

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A Hidden Gem Bed and Breakfast Owners Susan and Troy Brian.

7. “Remarkable Realtors Holding The Key To Success”: Property Mom Real Estate Inc. Renee Haney (Realtor) and Kim Zdunich (Owner/Broker of Record) on stage with Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones.

8. “Elite Local Employment Agency”: The Job Shoppe Inc. represented by Renee McAdam, Karly Clark, Ashley Sarros, Aman Khera and Mikeal Piccinin.

9. “Terrific Trucking Co. Which Goes The Distance”: Wolverine Freight System Co-Owner Christopher John with Publisher Jones.

10. Our “Merry Old Land of Oz Supplier” was St. Clair College Centre for the Arts where our gala has been held for the past eight years. The culinary team of Mark MacDonald, Kitchen Supervisor; Carmen Incitti, Executive Chef and Banquet Chefs David Dimoglou and Sanjit Sinha truly outdid themselves with appetizers like Chicken Chorizo with Persillade on Baked Cornbread and Smoked Halibut Cakes with Salsa Verde. The four course gourmet dinner included: an apple salad; Roasted Corn “Broom” Chowder with Aunt Em’s Garlic Bread croute; Roasted Supreme of Chicken Infused with Aged Asiago and Spinach, Layered Dauphinoise Potato and Garlic Roasted Rainbow Root Vegetables with a dessert of White Chocolate Mousse Glace

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WATCH GALA HIGHLIGHTS ON YOURTV!

Cable 11/HD 700 on the Plugged In show . . . JANUARY 2018 January 15, 22 and 29 at 5:30 p.m., January 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 and February 1 at 5 p.m. and 6:30 pm with Coffee Anglais and Fresh Berries complete with a “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” design and Biz X logo!

11. “2017 Powerhouse Professional”: Yvonne Pilon, WEtech Alliance. (Definitely the winner for best dressed as well!)

12. “Artist Of The Year”: Chris Gurniak with Publisher Jones.

13. “Dazzling Dentist”: Dr. Jennifer Valente, Dental Health Centre.

14. “Marvellous Manicurist”: Anna GrandiPase, Beautiful Images Aesthetics & Day Spa. 15. “Tip Top Server”: Sevasti Cipparrone, Uptown Restaurant. (By the way her

acceptance speech had the crowd in stitches!)

16. “The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2017”: Wigs to Wellness & The Mastectomy Boutique Owner Jackie Apostol-Pizzuti with Publisher Jones.

17. “Finest Place For Business Attire”: The Suit Shop Co. Ltd. Owner Lazaros Dimitriou. (Of course, he was decked out in a very classy suit!)

18. “A Massage Made In Heaven”: Coral Medical Health Spa employees Rachel Wright, Caryn Szpuniarski and Gina Bennardo.

19. “Smokin’ Hot Vape Shop”: VapeVine

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22 20 with Joel Lines, Lyle Papps, Ryan Jacques, Jen and Don Carom, Dylan Margerison, Tyler Natywary and Parker Kinsey.

20. “Coolest Kids Clothes”: Little Gems Children’s Consignment Boutique employees Sherry Fallone, Lisa Baillargeon and Nicole Williams with Publisher Jones.

21. “The Dealership Which Puts The Pedal To The Metal”: Reaume Chevrolet Buick GMC Co-Owner Steve Reaume with Della Jones-Goulet, Biz X, Assistant to the Publisher.

22. “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2017!”: On a Roll Sushi & Sliders Co-Owners George Stratis and Ben Simpson with Publisher Jones.

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23 21 23. “Good Ole Home Cooking”: Etta’s Greeklish Eatery with Server Kim Lewis and owners John and Debbie Filippakis.

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CELEBRITY PRESENTERS • Jim Crichton and Bob Bellacicco, CTV Windsor • Kara Ro and Greg Gynp, Bell Media • Jay Marchillo, Mix 96.7 Blackburn Radio

BIZ X WISHES TO THANK. . .

OUR SUPPLIERS (not shown in photos): Bigtime Presentations; Film Camp for Kids & Youth, supported by MANAN Media; Spencler Creative Group; Pelee Island Winery; Limos By Mr. J’s; Salon Zayaa, plus the local businesses who donated raffle prizes!

24. “The Most Wonderful Event Of The

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Year”: “Battle of the Brains Dinner & Trivia Challenge” for the Alzheimer Society of Windsor-Essex County. Accepting were: Melodie Street, Finance Assistant, Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County; Anna Vozza, Ciociaro Club, Board Member; Peggy Winch, Manager of Fund Development & Community Engagement, Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County and Frank Maceroni, “Battle of the Brains Dinner & Trivia Challenge” Committee Member.

25. Biz X family member Chad Goulet poses with Exodus Escape Room’s Lisa Raffoul, Facilitator; Sue Hancock, Manager and Rachel Trout, Supervisor, recipient of “The Great Escape Room.”

26. “The Tourist Centre Of Attraction”: Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens with Patti Woelk, Thomas Dyck, Terry Colasanti (Co-Owner), Ashley Colasanti and Renee Tetreault-Ford.

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BIZ X WISHES TO THANK. . .

OUR AWARD SPONSORS - Motor City Community Credit Union - The Small Business Centre (WE EDC) - St. Clair College Alumni Association - Tecumseh Mall - Leon’s Windsor

27. “It’s Always A Good Hair Day At This Salon”: Salon Cure Jessica French, Chantal Selley, Owner Christine Withington, Dianne Ducharme, Saydee Chausse and Sue Johnson.

28. “Most Loved Leader”: Brian Bendig, President, Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd. 29. Once again The Trophy Boys created the award plaques the 24 winners received.

This time around they were on a green background and the overall design was very eye-catching. Be sure to look for their plaques hanging in area businesses.

Shown are Owners Al and his brother Pete Crankshaw.

30. Biz X registration table helpers Kath Coulter-Sturkenboom and Jennifer MacPherson, along with Jim Crichton of CTV Windsor (who kick-started our awards ceremony) smile for our hard working photographer (Rod Denis) near the end of another successful evening, which raised

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29 over $7,000 in cash and gift cards for Sparky’s Toy Drive.

Who will be lucky enough to receive a Biz X Award in 2018? — time will tell as we celebrate year 21! Start your search now for the #1 businesses and people in Windsor Essex region and let us know in July when nominations open up. Get the latest details on our awards program at: BizXmagazine.com.

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Fortis Group would like to congratulate valued client Brian Bendig, President & Owner of Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd., for being awarded “Most Loved Leader” by BizX Magazine.

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OF THE MONTH

Story And Photo By Dave Hall

Deerbrook Realty: The People In Your Neighbourhood For 30 Years & Counting

D

eerbrook Realty Inc., Brokerage has been a family affair for more than 30 years during which time it has become the largest independent real estate brokerage in Southwestern Ontario.

Founded by Sam Zlotnik in 1987, the company is now run by his two daughters — Co-Owner and Broker-of-Record Kelly Schroth and Co-Owner and Broker Jennifer Pavao, both of whom have worked for the company in varying capacities since their teenage years.

“We are both proud of the fact it has been a family company since the day it opened,” Schroth expresses. “Jen and I started on the ground floor filing or answering the phone and have done just about everything over the years.”

Schroth and Pavao took over the company in 2008 when their father was casting about for a buyer so he could retire.

“Berkshire Hathaway showed considerable interest, but when my two daughters said they wanted to take over and keep the business locally owned, I aborted the potential sale and turned the business over to family,” says Zlotnik. “I think they faced some challenges as two young women in what was mostly a male-dominated field, but they have never looked back and have done a great job.”

Pavao remarks the transition to ownership was very smooth because “it’s a family business and we care for it in a different way than another owner might have done.

We knew the business and we wanted to keep it independent and local.”

Zlotnik opened the doors with a business partner in 1987, but it soon became his sole proprietorship guiding the company through numerous expansions and relocations until it settled at 59 Eugenie Street East almost 20 years ago.

“We outgrew our first three locations

Co-Owner and Broker-of-Record Kelly Schroth, left, founder Sam Zlotnik and Co-Owner and Broker Jennifer Pavao at Deerbrook Realty’s Eugenie Street East offices in Windsor.

within about three years and went from 10 salespeople at our first office, at 595 Tecumseh Road East, to more than 70 when we moved in here in 1999,” Zlotnik points out. “We bought this building, kept only the roof and walls and renovated the rest.”

The company’s name was suggested

by Zlotnik’s first business partner and for more than 20 years, the company’s slogans — “The Deer Are Everywhere” and “Growing By Leaps And Bounds” — played off the name.

But now, with Schroth and Pavao at the helm, the company focuses on its local roots proclaiming that “local matters” and “we know your neighbourhood.”

“We’re proud of the fact that the money we make, the money our clients make and the money our agents make, stays here in the community and gets spent locally,” mentions Pavao, who handles the company’s finances.

In much the same way as in many other fields, technology has changed the way homes are bought and sold, according to both Schroth and Pavao.

Schroth notes they previously used “large thick multiple listing books to show potential buyers, but now most of it is online, which makes it easier for customers to get a feel for what they want.”

But, despite this technology and access to information, there are drawbacks.

“Customers come armed with so much information that they are more sophisticated in many ways,” admits Schroth. “But, there is still no replacement for an experienced Broker to lead you through the process and make sure that you’re getting the home you want.”

For more information on Deerbrook and to view the company’s listings, visit: DeerbrookRealty.com.

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We offer great exposure for your business on a consistent schedule.

Take a look – superior local editorial and creative content.

Visit: BizXmagazine.com or contact us at: info@BizXmagazine.com 46

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Photos by Rod Denis, RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com

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