Biz X magazine January 2019 by Biz X magazine

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January 2019

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Essex Terminal Railway: The Little Engine That Could We Go One-On-One With The King Of Geekdom, Actor Tony Todd From Star Trek, Candyman & More THE PARENTING BIZ: Inspiring New Year’s Resolutions Do You Like To Look At Pictures? Then Check Out Our Jam-Packed Event Coverage Inside This Issue!

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“The Winds Of Change”

2019 has only just begun and there are already plenty of changes across the board. Kieran McKenzie now represents Ward 9 as one of four new Councillors on Windsor City Council. There are also new Mayors in the county; new board members and Presidents at area organizations and a few local biz pros making some big changes too. Find out all that has been happening in our cover story. — Page 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

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

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E â&#x20AC;¢ J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

table of contents January 2019 volume 22 • issue 1

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12 30 48

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Tips To Increase Work Productivity 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Peeling Back The Layers Of ETR Onion It’s a reflection of its low profile in the community that The Essex Terminal Railway Company converted a huge brownfield in the middle of the city to a parking lot for up to 5,300 mostly Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles with hardly anyone noticing, writes columnist Alan Halberstadt. 7 Front Lines 9 The Way It Was: The History Behind The Brock And Tecumseh Statute 11 Heard On The Street 12 Hot Shots: Stigma Enigma’s “Mingle For Maryvale Adolescent Mental Health Centre” The Stigma Enigma committee presents the “Sophie Smith Scholarship” annually, to full time medical students. One of the 2018 recipients is Jennifer Grbevski (top photo by Rod Denis), a first year psychiatry resident at Western University, Windsor campus. She received her scholarship award during the group’s fundraising event in November, featuring Ginger Zee, Chief Meteorologist for ABC News and Author. 14 Ask The Experts: The Heat Is On At Patio Palace Fireplace & Barbecue Shoppe, Windsor 15 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 17 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: FL3X Fitness Flexes Muscles With Expansion Plans 23 Hot Shots: The Salvation Army’s “Hope In The City Luncheon” 24 Portfolio Corner 25 XX Files: Kristina Foto, Windsor Weddings 26 Hot Shots: Advance Business Systems “American Thanksgiving Football Classic” 28 Hot Shots: “Cops Care For Kids Fashion Show & Silent Auction” 30 THE PARENTING BIZ: Get 2019 Off To A Great Start Across Windsor Essex, there are countless ways for you and your family to commit to new and exciting resolutions. Being more active is just one of many New Year Resolutions your whole family can make this year, just like these kids playing floor hockey at the Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex are doing. (Middle photo courtesy of the City of Windsor.) Check out a bit of advice from business owners across the region on how to make 2019 the best year yet for you and your children! 38 Kids In The Community: Windsor Teen Helps Windsor’s Homeless With Life Packs 39 Food For Thought: Oven 360 Pizza, Panini & Gelato 40 Hot Shots: The Rotary Club Of Windsor-Roseland’s “Wines Of The World” 42 Hot Shots: “Artilicious” To Benefit The Kidney Foundation Of Canada 45 Up Close & Personal: Actor Tony Todd And “Windsor ComiCon” Memories 48 Awards Spotlight: The 21st Annual “Biz X Awards Gala” Nick Trudeau (left in photo by Rod Denis) and Tony Rush of Dinunzio Protection Services were on hand at the magazine’s big shindig to make sure everything went off without a hitch! The gala took place at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts in mid-November of last year with award recipients receiving their official plaques from The Trophy Boys in a ceremony with gala sponsors and VIP guests in the audience. Flip to our gala photo pages to see if you recognize anyone you know in business! 54 Biz Of The Month: Breadth Consulting Inc.

ON THE COVER — “The Winds Of Change!” — 18

The political landscape across Windsor and Essex County has changed for 2019 with new Councillors and Mayors elected in many municipalities. Political veteran Kieran McKenzie (pictured on front) now represents Ward 9 as one of four new councillors on Windsor City Council. There are also four new Mayors taking office across the county. On the business front, there have been changes at the Windsor Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce and also at the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association. Plus there are a few changes in the local business world as well. Change seems to be the only constant as the New Year begins. So what’s in store for the year ahead? Photo by Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com) B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

FUNNY STUFF! BROUGHT TO YOU BY

“Welcoming In 2019 With Our Furry Friends”

Have a laugh or two with our funny pet pictures. Send your photos to deborah@bizxmagazine.com and it may be included here in an upcoming issue. Make sure it gives our readers a chuckle! Apple asks, “Should old acquaintance be forgot, and old lang syne?” YES!

SINCE 1998, Biz X IS DELIVERED FREE OF CHARGE TO EVERY REGISTERED BUSINESS IN WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY (10,000) AS DETERMINED BY CANADA POST. (NUMBER 03524213)

Hang on to your party hat, Gizzie is ready to celebrate.

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All kidding aside, Loki bleats a big cheer for the new year. Nova, shines with a little ferret sparkle for 2019.

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

Photos courtesy of Lauren Edwards of 519 East Pet Valu locations; Hoof Apparel; Moggy’s Mission and Charlotte’s Freedom Farm.

PRESIDENT Deborah Jones VICE-PRESIDENT Colin Jones OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator Shelley Oswald, Account Executive BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jack Rosenberg WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS Lori Baldassi David Clark Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh Chelsea Girard Andrea Grimes Alan Halberstadt Dave Hall Dave Halliday Jason Kerluck Marlene Markham-Gay Steven Mayo Joe McParland Victoria Rose Rebecca Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS Rodney L. Denis Photography Kim Jussila PRODUCTION DESIGN Rae Marie MAILING & DELIVERY ADDRESS FOR Biz X ONLY P.O. Box 27035, 7720 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor, Ontario, N8T 3N5 e-mail: info@bizxmagazine.com

CALL 519-977-2199 NOW TO BOOK YOUR AD! VISIT BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND ENTER YOUR EMAIL UNDER “SUBSCRIBE” IN THE TOP BAR TO RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION OF EACH ISSUE DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Biz X MAGAZINE IS OWNED BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. AND IS PUBLISHED EACH MONTH WITH THE EXCEPTION OF DOUBLE ISSUES IN THE SUMMER AND NOV/DEC. THE MAGAZINE IS ONLY SOLD ON NEWSSTANDS IN ONTARIO FOR $3.50 PER COPY PLUS HST AND PERSONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS MAY BE ORDERED FOR $45 PLUS HST FOR 10 ISSUES IN CANADA. THE ACCEPTANCE OF ADVERTISEMENTS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF THE PRODUCTS OR SERVICES ADVERTISED. THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED IN EDITORIALS AND CONTRIBUTIONS BY COLUMNISTS AND ADVERTISERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN ANY EDITORIAL COLUMNS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE PUBLISHER. INFORMATION IS TIMELY AS OF OUR PRINT DEADLINE. Biz X MAGAZINE IS A REGISTERED NAME OF 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION. CONTENTS COPYRIGHT ©2019 BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD.

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from the publisher

Tips To Increase Work Productivity All Year Long By Deborah Jones Well here it is, another new year has begun. Our first issue of our 22nd year of publishing is out and everyone at the magazine looks forward to another great year in business for not only us, but all our advertisers, readers and contacts too. Since this is the January edition and we have some New Year Resolutions for families in our “Parenting Biz” section and a cover story about different changes in the local business and political world, I thought it best now to offer some tips on how to help maximize productivity at work. One website I reference frequently is News Canada. I recently read the following tips on: NewsCanada.com and wanted to share them with our readers now. The basis of their article is that it is challenging to stay energetic at work and help is needed to combat the mid-afternoon slump by integrating a few simple, healthy habits to boost your productivity. Check out the following tips and see if any can be helpful for your situation. 1. Catch some zzzz’s. Those who consistently

get less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep a night may start to experience mild sleep deprivation. Start shifting your schedule to go to bed 30, 20 or even 15 minutes earlier. Making this little change will help with productivity and your overall performance. 2. Stay hydrated. Drinking a sufficient amount of water can alleviate the mid-afternoon slump because your heart is able to pump blood more efficiently when you are properly hydrated. Here’s a quick tip — keep a bottle on your desk to remind you to drink more water. You can even put lines on the bottle to indicate where the water level should be by a certain time to ensure that you are staying hydrated throughout the day. 3. Keep your eating habits in check. Small changes to your diet can benefit your overall productivity and energy levels. Consuming small meals at regular intervals throughout the day and getting enough fibre from veggies and whole grains can help keep your energy more consistent. Try keeping some quick and healthy snacks at your desk

like nuts, dried fruits and microwavable popcorn. (Publisher’s Note: And now a word from a News Canada sponsor that must be mentioned) Orville Redenbacher’s new simply salted microwave popcorn is vegan certified and made with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. This whole-grain snack will satisfy your afternoon munchies without leaving you feeling sluggish. (Visit: Orville.ca.) 4. Take exercise breaks. With busy work schedules, it becomes harder to include physical activity into our daily routines. If your office isn’t fortunate enough to have an attached gym, you can still make time for mini workout breaks during the day. Try to schedule walking meetings, take a couple of minutes to stretch or opt to take the stairs rather than the elevator. Remember that little changes go a long way. Personally, I keep going no matter what and can work 18 hours a day as I just love my job and I am always up to the challenge. However, I realize that might not be the case for others, especially if they are not the business owner. I survive on little sleep, but I do know I need to get to bed earlier. I drink lots of water and popcorn is my favourite snack! Exercise I need to work on for sure as I am glued to my computer most of the day and night. So, even if a Publisher like me can gain some insight into looking after myself better, using the above advice, I hope you can too. Here’s to 2019 being the best year of your life!

SAVE THE DATE!

HATS ON FOR HEALTHCARE WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2019 Hats On For Healthcare is a simple but fun and fashionable way to raise money. The 10th Annual “Hats On For Healthcare” is a fundraising initiative supporting Windsor Regional Hospital.

Participating individuals and organizations, together with their employees, members and clients are invited to put on their unique and creative head attire, make a donation and take part in many entertaining activities to help raise funds for the Diagnostic Imaging equipment at Windsor Regional Hospital. Participating in the 2019 “Hats On For Healthcare” is a great way to show the community that you and your employees support healthcare in Windsor-Essex.

Email us to register at hats-on@wrh.on.ca, call 519-973-4433 or 519-985-2656 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 9

editorial viewpoint

Did Anybody Notice? ETR Strikes New Deal With FCA By Alan Halberstadt *If you have a comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com

he Essex Terminal Railway Company (ETR) reminds me of the old fable, The Little Engine That Could. The fictional engine lugging a trainload of toys up a steep hill, huffing and puffing, and repeating the refrain — “I think I can, I think I can,” demonstrates the value of optimism and hard work. ETR, my modern day equivalent of The Little Engine That Could, was actually founded in 1902, long before the storybook by Author Watty Piper was published in 1930. Rail line construction happened between 1902 and 1918, and ETR has been chugging along ever since as a switching or short-line railway that assists industry and major rail companies in coupling and uncoupling cargo cars efficiently. And in case you haven’t noticed, ETR has spread its wings. Last year, in January of 2018, it purchased the barren brownfield property once occupied by the General Motors Transmission plant on the doorstep of ETR’s headquarters and main terminal at 1601 Lincoln Road in Windsor. Without fanfare, it recently purchased two other small parcels and transformed the 46 acre brownfield into a huge parking lot, dubbed MotiPark Automotive Storage. Most of the cars are Pacificas and Grand Caravans from the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) assembly plant, less than a kilometre away. How it happened is a reflection of the hard work and acumen of ETR President and CEO Terry Berthiaume and his management and ownership team. “A couple of years ago, we were contacted by an offshore car manufacturer looking for a distribution centre on this side of the world,” explains Berthiaume. The company was aware of ETR’s reputation for good service, right in the middle of North America, through mutual dealings in marine transportation. The prospective partners entered into two years of negotiations, which ended when circumstances caused the offshore company to pull back. “A lot of money, time and effort went into it,” says Berthiaume. “We realized it was a good idea.” It turned out to be more than that. “It was a eureka moment,” chimes in ETR Vice-President Tony De Thomasis. ETR approached close neighbour Fiat Chrysler with the proposition of storing its products on the

former GM property. FCA ultimately decided to move its distribution centre, adjacent to Home Depot on Provincial Road, to the infinitely more convenient locale. ETR has spent in excess of $10 million to first rent, then purchase the property from investor group Orchard Heights Canada Company and get it ready to accommodate up to 5,300 bins, or vehicle parking spaces.

ETR President Terry Berthiaume is quite proud of non-subsidized accomplishments. Photo courtesy of The Essex Terminal Railway Company.

A new car repair facility, on Seneca Street between Kildare and Walker Roads, cost $1 million. Other improvements included landscaping, lighting, security cameras, fencing and drainage. FCA saves copious fuel costs with the lot so much closer. So it’s environmentally friendly. And the short trip from the assembly plant lessens the chances of the new vehicles picking up nicks or malfunctions, says De Thomasis. “It’s a win-win — good for us and good for FCA,” says Berthiaume. As well it is also good for nearby residents, since there is no real traffic congestion. Cars, transport trucks and rail cars stacked with vehicles enter and exit on remote Munsee Street off Walker Road. ETR punches well above its weight. Its mainline stretches only 35 km and roughly parallels the Detroit River, from the east side of Windsor, through LaSalle and terminating in Amherstburg. The total track, including sidings and spurs, is 70 km. The volume of cargo it moves in a year — 12,000 loaded rail cars — is spectacular for this unique short-line company with such a low public profile. While there is still romance in passenger train travel, there is little overtly sexy about a railway with a “Go Slow” safety policy that limits train speed to 15 km per hour. Its value, however, to local customers engaged in the lumber, steel, agriculture, scrap metal, alcohol, and liquid petroleum gas industry sectors, is profound. ETR offers in-plant B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

switching services to customers with trucks and rail cars clogging production processes. It reduces shipping costs, improves safety and increases efficiency and plant capacity. ETR operates with only four regularly rebuilt locomotives, worth approximately $500,000 each. But, don’t be fooled. ETR and sister company Morterm Limited provide far reaching rail access from CN, CP and CSX railways to ships traversing the Great Lakes to load and unload cargo, connecting these customers to any point in the rail networks of North America. Local industries served by ETR are: ADM Agri Ind. Border Reload Inc., Canadian Salt, Dainty Foods, Diageo Canada Inc., Hiram Walker (Penrod Ricard), K Scrap Resources, Petro Gas, and Plains Midstream Canada. “There are a lot of spinoffs to big companies,” Berthiaume indicates. “A lot of industries depend on rail. ADM, Hiram Walker, Dainty Foods . . . they can’t operate without rail.” “We’re not the kind of business that needs to be in the public eye,” adds Berthiaume when asked why ETR generally operates under the radar screen. “We advertise in trade magazines, to targeted audiences.” (Note: In these publications, ETR stresses its cost effectiveness to attract new business on the rail line.) In 1983, ETR merged with Morterm Limited, a full service marine terminal, under the corporate banner Essex Morterm Holding Company. That year there was a change in ownership with a private local investment group purchasing the company from Canadian Salt. Morterm, located on Maplewood Drive in west Windsor, is a story in itself. It was built in 1917 by U.S. Steel. A large portion of the docking facility was expanded using debris from the 1967 Detroit riots no less. Today it is a thoroughly modern marine facility. It recently purchased $500,000 in state of the art lift truck equipment to accommodate the transport of cumbersome cargo, such as wind turbine components, across the country. ETR is forever on the prowl for new business. One opportunity would be to attract a big manufacturer to redevelop 140 acres of land idled for five years with the closure of the Honeywell chemical plant in Amherstburg. ETR has a track there waiting to be reused. Berthiaume is prideful of the fact that his company has never been subsidized by government. In fact, ETR and its sister companies pay an estimated $850,000 a year in municipal taxes while employing a dozen core staff and 60 employees during peak operations. He allows that ETR might pursue tax deferment under the city’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) as it explores other opportunities for converting brownfields. With governments liberally tossing money around to private companies with little proof of sustainable payback, I can’t think of a more deserving recipient.

FRONTLINES Robotics Competition Helps Develop Skills Students Need For Future Employment St. Clair College welcomed 41 robotics teams on December 8 and 9, 2018, as the host of the annual “FIRST LEGO League” competition (FirstLegoLeague.org). School teams and community groups (comprised of students in grades four to eight) have three months to use LEGO Mindstorms to build and program an autonomous robot to complete tasks based on an annual theme. For 2018, the “Into Orbit” theme meant points were awarded based on the number of successful space missions the robot completed in two-and-a-half minutes. While many arrive with robots that are consistently successful on their practice surface, competition can mean frustration as robots slide, take unexpected paths, or get stuck on different obstacles. “Things go wrong,” says Al Douglas, Coordinator and Professor for Electromechanical Engineering Technician — Robotics at St. Clair College. “It’s a real tragedy out there and they need to come back here and figure out what went wrong and fix it . . . and then you need to go compete again.” Douglas, a Judge at the tournament and a

mentor for the Glenwood Public School and Vincent Massey Secondary School robotics teams, feels that it is good experience for youth to face new challenges and experience the highs and lows of the competition. The challenges include creating a solution to a current scientific problem and making a presentation to judges, as well as answer in-depth questions about their strategies, design process, and teamwork. “All of these activities develop a lot of the key skills that we want to see,” says Douglas. “They’re solving problems, they’re working in groups. It’s basically all the things that industry and employers want to see people able to do.” Industry needs these skills and that is why companies often back local teams, or — in the case of CenterLine (Windsor) Limited — sponsor the event itself. Why help fund competitions like this? Allan Parks, Director of Engineering and IT at CenterLine replies, “Investment in our future. Investment in the community’s future. CenterLine has always been a very big supporter of their local community and

they believe in inspiring and investing in our kids tomorrow . . . whether they end up at CenterLine or not.” Also a team mentor at Stella Maris Catholic School, Parks volunteers his time because “it’s fun . . . and “because some day they will be the next generation taking care of the world and making it a better place for all of us.” Seven teams from the weekend advance to the “Ontario West Provincial Championships” hosted by the University of Waterloo on February 9. For more details on which teams are in the area check out the website: WindsorEssexFirst.org.

to Sup rt

Pro

THE ESSEX MORTERM GROUP OF COMPANIES

In mission M01 Space Travel, the robot needs to send payload rockets rolling down a ramp. The first cart is preset, but the robot needs to load the next item (like this LEGO man in a Mindstorms kit) from base. Photo by Victoria Rose.

VA L U E D C O M M U N I T Y PA R T N E R S I N LOGISTICS AND VEHICLE STORAGE

“

The FIRST program challenges kids, teaches them real world skills and ignites the passion that we all look for on our teams in industry. We have supported FIRST teams for over 10 years and have hired some great FIRST alumni.

“

Michael J. Beneteau CEO

www.cntrline.com Corporate Office: 415 Morton Dr., Windsor, ON Tel: 519-734-8464 | Email: info@cntrline.com

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

FRONTLINES

Oldcastle Custom Car Shop Hooks Up With Shelby American Xcentrick Autosports Inc. signed an agreement with Shelby American Inc., in mid-December 2018, to become the third licensed Shelby modification shop in Canada, and the only one east of Saskatchewan. “We are thrilled to continue to expand the Shelby brand internationally with the addition of Xcentrick Autosports in Ontario, Canada,” says Gary Patterson, President of Shelby American (on the web see: Shelby.com). “Shelby enthusiasts in eastern Canada will now have access to highquality Shelby upgrades through Xcentrick, a shop with an international reputation for excellence. We’re certain Xcentrick will maintain the legacy, pride, and performance Shelby American is known for.”

Shelby decided to add a third shop in Canada to better serve the east side of the country, including major metropolitan areas like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. With this agreement, Xcentrick is licensed to modify several Ford vehicles including the Mustang GT, Shelby GT 500, Super Duty F250, and the F350 Turbo Diesel with Shelby’s high-end aftermarket components. Once completed, all Shelby vehicles will be included in the exclusive official Shelby worldwide registry. Jessie Darmon, President of Xcentrick Autosports adds, “This agreement changes the face of our company and we are ready to make Shelby American proud of the amazing vehicles that we will be producing

for the Canadian market. Windsor is the perfect place for a modification shop of this magnitude with such a rich history in the automotive industry.” Xcentrick Autosports — a family business situated at 5550 Oldcastle Road South in Oldcastle — builds, customizes, restores and paints vehicles of any type including cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, motorcycles etc. It also does in-house custom upholstery, specialty paint and pin-striping as well as production painting, automotive performance parts and merchandise sales, vehicle consignment sales and professional automotive detailing. Check them out online at: XKautosports.com.

TV Host Sherry Holmes Inspires Young Women With Career Ideas At the end of last year, Sherry Holmes presented the keynote speech at Build a Dream events held in Windsor at the Ciociaro Club and in London. The non-profit organization encourages young women to pursue careers in the skilled trades, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics); emergency response and entrepreneurship. Holmes is the daughter of professional contractor and TV host Mike Holmes and co-hosts Holmes: Next Generation on the DIY Network. (Get their complete bios on: MakeItRight.ca/sherry and MakeItRight.ca/mike-holmes-story). Despite growing up on job sites and doing construction projects with her father, Holmes originally worked with editors behind the scenes on her father’s show while she pursued a variety of postsecondary programs. She eventually discovered that watching the crew have a good time and complete construction challenges was more fun than sitting at a desk and described this evolution of her career to young women at “Build a Dream Windsor.” Holmes mentions that she felt it was important to share her work experiences — “I think young women who are searching for their career option need to hear about valid career opportunities out there.” She continues by stating, “With the trades, I honestly believe that most of our youth aren’t fully aware of the job opportunities out there that are available for them. It’s our responsibility to present that to them . . . educate students on everything they could be capable of doing and likely excel at later in life. I want more women in the trades. I also want them to be prepared for everything a career in the trades has to offer. The best way to do that is to pass on anything that I know, or explain what I went through.” Along with featuring a high-profile professional female, Build a Dream’s annual event includes a panel of local female mentors who share their work experiences, a career expo where students speak

Contractor and TV Host Sherry Holmes poses with Abbie White from the Sabre Bytes Robotics Team 772 (Sandwich Secondary School) at the “Build a Dream Windsor” career expo on November 8, 2018. Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Khalil, JP Photography.

with employers about potential career paths, and hands-on activities like science experiments, welding, and EMS simulations. “You can do or be or build anything,” comments Panel Moderator Justine Janssen, SVP Strategy Technician at Ceridian (Ceridian.com/ca). “It’s a really great time to be exploring a career.” Build a Dream will be in Kitchener in spring 2019 and returns to Windsor and London in fall 2019. Keep up to date with these events by referring to: WeBuildADream.com.

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THE WAY IT WAS

Along The River’s Edge By Andrea Grimes

hen Michigan was ceded, by Britain, to the United States in August 1796, many Loyalists settled along the south shores of the Detroit River in a village called Sandwich. Settlers were drawn to this frontier due to an abundance of wildlife, a mild climate and excellent soil for farming. They cleared the land, built their homes, and raised their families. They not only influenced local culture, they also drove the course of our Canadian history. Here is where Jesuit Missionaries, European homesteaders and French pioneers, fur-traders, freed Black American slaves, our Native peoples and the Essex Militia walked; along the river’s edge. It didn’t take long for this new frontier settlement to become a vibrant “hub” in the Western District of Upper Canada. Sandwich soon flourished with a school house, churches, a town hall, law firms and a physician’s practice; dry goods stores, hotels, taverns, a winery, stagecoach service, a blacksmith, lumber mill and the newspaper office — all contributing to the town’s vibrant service industry. The Detroit River border region stood

out with a strong defence capability against the threat of American invasion. When the United States Congress declared war against Great Britain, Sandwich was the first place to feel the effects of war, when General William Hull took possession of Sandwich on July 12, 1812. The rumblings of conflict echoed throughout the village, raising a call to arms. The Essex Militia, fighting along the ranks with British soldiers, had a faithful ally in Shawnee Chief Tecumseh. In the campaigns that ensued, they covered themselves with glory — committed to protecting their homes, their freedom and their Canadian way of life! Hull issued a proclamation informing the Canadians that he would overpower all opposition. General Sir Isaac Brock (the British commander in Upper Canada) issued a counter proclamation reminding the inhabitants of Sandwich of the prosperity of the colony and assuring them that Britain would defend Canada to the utmost! According to the War of 1812 website (WarOf1812.ca/tecumseh.htm); “On August 13, 1812 Brock reached Fort Malden with reinforcements and immediately formulated a bold plan for an attack on Detroit. Chief

“The Meeting of Brock and Tecumseh, 1812” was painted by Canadian artist C.W. Jefferys (1915). Illustration courtesy of Library and Archives Canada.

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The Brock and Tecumseh monument, Windsor, Ontario 2018. Photo courtesy of sculptor Mark Williams.

Tecumseh was delighted, since the Indians, (about 600 in number), had been fretting at British caution. On August 16, 1812, Brock advanced on the fort, having threatened Hull that ‘the numerous body of Indians who have attached themselves to my troops, will be beyond control the moment the contest commences.’ The American commander surrendered without a fight. Legend has it that Tecumseh rode beside Brock when he entered Detroit and that Brock gave him his sash as a mark of respect.” The benchmark of our Canadian history is a tapestry rich in traditions, folklore and customs. In honour of Brock’s and Tecumseh’s military tide-turning strategies of the War of 1812, Sandwich resident, historian and former Principal of General Brock School, the late Jim Muir, spearheaded a project to bring those heritage footprints (contributing to the cultural and historic fabric of Sandwich Town) forward for the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. Local sculptor, Mark Williams was commissioned to create the commemorative Brock and Tecumseh bronze statues. “I’m thrilled to be instrumental in creating historical memories for teaching and learning purposes so we will know and understand our history and roots,” says Williams. “Each monument allowed me the challenge to create to the best of my ability bringing history to life by the flow and movement of each piece.” Our community celebrated the unveiling of Williams’ Brock and Tecumseh statute at the Sandwich round-about September 7, 2018. That day, the poignant message spoke of 207 years of our Canadian history recognizing who we are and the lives we lead … along the river’s edge.

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HEARD ON THE STREET After almost four decades serving the automotive needs of Windsorites, Rose City Ford has been sold, although the husband-wife team of John and Sophia Chisholm will remain in their current roles at the east-end dealership. The new owner is AutoCanada Inc., an Edmonton-based company that owns multiple automobile dealerships across Canada. Rose City was established in 1981 when John’s father Bill bought the former Dingwall Ford and changed its name to reflect Windsor’s flower city image. The Chisholm family still owns the building and the land located close to the intersection of Tecumseh Road East and Jefferson Avenue. Busker’s Submarine, a long-time westend staple serving ice cream, subs and gyros, may have changed hands, but the new owners are planning little in the way of changes. Brothers Mark and Matt Vukanovich and father Bill bought the business in October 2018 after spending the previous month training under previous Owner Mike Koutsonicolas. “Mike built a very successful business and there seems to be no reason to make any major changes,” says Mark, adding, “We might make a few additions to the menu, but that’s going to be a ways down the road.” Mark has a background in food services, Matt runs a business selling vintage t-shirts and Bill has worked in the automotive industry for many years. Koutsonicolas, who opened Busker’s on March 1, 1985 comments it was simply time to step away after so many years. “It’s a bit like the movie Groundhog Day in that the same customers kept coming back year after year and we have been blessed with so many loyal customers,” he states. Koutsonicolas, whose wife Jennifer also worked in the business, says the sale came about after a casual conversation with Bill Vukanovich who lives next door to Koutsonicolas’ sister. “I mentioned I was getting ready to retire and before we knew it, the business was sold,” remarks Koutsonicolas. Busker’s is a 2007 Biz X Award winner for “Super Duper Sub Shop” and is located at 1805 Tecumseh Road West.

Soulliere Financial, 11505 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor has joined forces with Continuum Financial Centres. Photo by Jack Rosenberg.

Soulliere Financial, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in August 2018, joined forces at the end of 2018 with Continuum Financial Centres, a Canada-wide financial services provider. Pat Soulliere, Elise Keller and their fast-growing team of advisors will continue to offer their services to clients seeking financial advice and guidance. Continuum is a division of Financial Horizons Group, which offers insurance, investments, group benefits and succession planning to clients in dozens of communities across Canada. The company’s headquarters are in Kitchener. Tim Klue has decided to continue selling whimsical and colourful cupcakes from his brightly-decorated store in Walkerville, despite losing Sonia, his wife and business partner to cancer in early October of 2018. Tim and Sonia started Klueless Cupcakes in July 2013 after Sonia was laid off from her government job in Chatham. “We live in the neighbourhood and we were out for dinner one night and ran into the landlord for the building where we’re located,” explains Tim. The Klues had been baking cupcakes mostly as a hobby in their home, but quickly decided to take the plunge as business owners. “To build a successful business and then to have Sonia get sick has been absolutely tragic,” Tim expresses. For a few weeks after Sonia’s passing, Tim was unsure about the future of the business, but after B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

turning 50 on Halloween, he decided to keep it open in his wife’s memory. Tim mentions Sonia, who was 48, did all the baking and decorating and “I did the dishes.” Klue has hired a new baker, a graduate of Humber College, and plans to keep moving forward one day at a time. “It’s been a good run, but I’m not anywhere near the point when I can retire,” he adds. Klueless Cupcakes is located at 1598 Wyandotte Street East. WindsorEats, an Internet-based booster of local restaurants and beverage producers, is the latest company to cash in on the legalization of cannabis. At the centre of the initiative is a hands-on, pipe-making experience led by Riccardo Santia, a world-renowned corn-cob pipe modifier. “He’s a Windsor guy, which makes it all the more special,” explains Adriano Ciotoli, Co-Owner of WindsorEats.com. “It will give people a hands-on look at the way these special pipes are made whether you happen to use them for cannabis or tobacco,” adds Ciotoli. Participants will work with power tools and a “secret sauce,” which will stain the pipe and make it look like a 100-yearold collectible. The first offering takes place January 12, 2019. The experience is currently scheduled to run monthly, making use of the workshop at Michael Difazio Reclaim Artistry. Looking ahead, WindsorEats also plans street food festivals May 17 and July 12 and a wine festival on June 28 and 29, all at Lanspeary Park, pending approval for special event permits. For more information on all of this year’s coming events, visit: WindsorEats.com. Jon Liedtke, Owner of Higher Limits, is hoping that closing the doors of his three year old medical cannabis lounge on Ouellette Avenue in Windsor is not permanent. But, for now, it’s run afoul of an announcement by the Doug Ford Conservative government that vaping and smoking medical cannabis is equated with smoking tobacco products and would be covered by Ontario’s Smoke Free Ontario Act legislation. But, Liedtke says, “It’s been made aware to us by a senior member of the government that licensing medical cannabis and cigar lounges is coming.” He hopes it happens in the first or second quarter of this year, but acknowledges that government often moves very slowly. Liedtke adds that equating medical cannabis with tobacco is an infringement of the rights of people to smoke or vape cannabis for approved medical reasons. He indicates that in the meantime, he can’t keep his doors open without any revenue coming in. Higher Limits ceased operations at the end of 2018.

Stigma Enigma’s “Mingle For Maryvale Adolescent Mental Health Centre”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT November 3, 2018 at St. Clair College Centre For The Arts, 201 Riverside Dr. West, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

3 1. The goal of this event is to raise overall awareness for adolescent mental health, as well as much needed funds for Maryvale Adolescent Mental Health Centre, a mental health treatment centre for youth that has long suffered from underfunding. A whopping $104,508 was raised along with lots of publicity for the cause from this successful fundraiser! The evening was organized by Stigma Enigma committee members who posed with Guest Speaker Ginger Zee — Nicole and Jennifer Grbevski, Dennis Byrne, Jenna Smith, Randy Semeniuk, Chuck Smith, (Zee), Dr. Patrick Smith, Christine Prymack, Darlene Kennedy, Julie Davis, Connie Martin, Shannon Fuhr-Smith, Mary Bondy, Karen Fosten, Amanda Hermiz, Chuck Reynolds and Pete Cusumano. Find out more about this group at: StigmaEnigma.ca and more on the charity recipient at: Maryvale.ca. 2. Each year the event highlights a highprofile guest speaker to raise awareness about mental health issues and remove the stigma surrounding it, while encouraging those in distress to reach out for help. For 2018 the Guest Speaker was Ginger Zee, Chief Meteorologist for ABC News and Author of “Natural Disaster: I Cover Them, I Am One” who is pictured with the Founder and Chair of Stigma Enigma and local family physician, Dr. Patrick X. Smith.

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4 In her presentation she shared her personal battle with mental health and focused on the importance of raising awareness on a local level. 3. The event featured live music, delicious food and prizes and enjoying the benefits of their sponsorship was the Toldo Group represented by: Kyle Brown, Dalia Mazhar, Wayne and Andrea Bate, Sarah Eissa, Christopher Toldo, Yara Mazhar, Jake Corrent and Eli Esco. 4. Gus Revenberg Chevrolet Buick GMC were once again proud sponsors of this annual event and representing the dealership were: Rob and Daniela Schuck; Amanda, Till and Marie Letteri and Melissa and Jennifer Taylor. 5. Always an organization quick to jump on board to support community causes, the Motor City Community Credit Union (MCCCU) was on hand with guests: MCCCU members Tom and Euleen McCann; their daughter Becky Langlois, Marketing and Community Relations Manager; and Debbie and Rob Griffith, Chief Operating Officer. 6. Over 550 people were in attendance, including the event co-sponsor Infinity Rx Group’s Mark Vickers, Stan Francic and Justin Garant. BBIZIZ XX MMAAGGAAZZININEE •• JJAANNUUAARRYY 22001199

6 To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there!”

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ask the experts

Turn Up The Heat With A New Fireplace By Dave Halliday

e’ve all heard it. That distinctive “click” followed by the sound of ignition as your home’s furnace fires up. It isn’t exactly an enjoyable sound . . . in fact some may hear it and immediately envision the money they are burning to keep their home comfortable. One could suggest that your furnace provides heat, but not warmth, to your home. What could possibly provide heat and warmth? A gas fireplace just might be the answer! Imagine the family gathered in the living room sharing snacks and watching a movie together as the warm glow of a fireplace creates a cozy space for all to enjoy. Further imagine your comfort in not hearing the furnace crank up every 10 minutes. We at Biz X were fortunate to sit and discuss the options available regarding gas fireplaces and accessories with Paul Fanson, Owner of Patio Palace Fireplace & Barbecue Shoppe (PatioPalace.com) located at 2859-61 Howard Avenue, in Windsor. Patio Palace is a specialty retailer providing barbecues, patio furniture, and gas/electric fireplaces. They have been serving the needs of Essex County residents for the past 36 years and Fanson has 37 years of personal experience to draw upon. What should a company such as yours be offering their clientele? “Educated sales people helping the customer make informed decisions on their purchases are of the essence,” declares Fanson. He adds, “We take the time to fully explain the product and features so customers are educated.” What type of assistance should I expect from my chosen provider and installer?

Bring home the warmth with a Valor Radiant Heat Fireplace. Photo courtesy of Patio Palace.

“A gas fireplace purchase is not a small decision,” Fanson replies. “The process we take you through involves functionality, design, efficiencies, size of room, and installation. On the patio furniture side we have an in-house designer who will meet with you at your home and help design your dream backyard.” What are the functional benefits to installing a gas fireplace at one’s home? “Heat! heat! heat!” exclaims Fanson. “A lot of customers come in and say they don’t need the heat, but once it is installed they all love the heat it produces. This allows you to zone heat the rooms you are in to a more comfortable level and turn down the furnace, saving you money.” Can the addition of a gas fireplace or exterior gas fire pit add value to a home? “Yes, people who are purchasing homes now expect a fireplace in it,” he indicates. “Outdoor fire pits are the largest growth area in the outdoor furniture business. It adds ambiance and heat to any outdoor area.” What are the considerations when choosing a natural gas BBQ? “When you buy a grill you should do your research and

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try to buy something of quality,” Fanson answers. “Most people want stainless steel, but there are many different grades. Try to make sure the burners and flavour waves (plates above the burner) are made of 304 grade stainless, if you want them to last. The easiest way to do this is to use a magnet as it won’t stick to 304 grade stainless steel.” Why is it important to engage the services of a professional who has specialized experience with the installation of fireplaces and BBQs? “We have gas-licenced installers that fully understand the installation for each home,” says Fanson, concluding, “No two installs are the same, so it is important to have experience in the fireplace industry, not just a gas licence.” Your home has never felt as cozy and warm as it does now that you have your new fireplace. The ambiance that it adds to your family room is undeniable and the even your Lab seems to be happier with the addition. He takes up his spot in front of the fire every night and drifts away to sleep as the kids use him as an overstuffed pillow! A rather unexpected bonus is the heat in your relationship has cranked up a bit as well! Turns out that a faux bear-skin rug in front of a warm fireplace with a bottle of wine, can really brings out the romantic side in both you and the wife, once the kids are in bed. It definitely has you thinking you should have installed it years ago! To quote the late Jim Morrison, “Come on baby light my fire!”

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NEWSFLASH NEW IN BIZ In early February 2019 Planet Fitness is set to open their first club in Windsor, at 4330 Walker Road. “We look forward to providing Windsor residents with a highquality fitness experience that’s comfortable and non-intimidating for first-time gym members,” says Planet Fitness franchisee Chris Klebba. “The warm welcome we’ve received in our other locations across Canada makes us excited to address a similar unmet need for the community of Windsor.” The new location is 22,000 square feet and offers brand new cardio machines, new fully-equipped locker rooms with day lockers and showers, many full-sized flat screen televisions, a 30 minute express circuit, tanning beds and more. The club will be open and staffed 24 hours, seven days a week. Planet Fitness prides itself on offering extremely affordable memberships and a unique “Judgement Free Zone,” where members experience a hassle-free, nonintimidating environment. Each club also features the brand’s iconic “Lunk Alarm” — a purple and yellow siren on the wall used to gently remind people that grunting, dropping weights or judging others is not permitted. Memberships are now being offered at their presale office located in front of the club that is currently under construction. Windsor residents can sign-up for memberships for just $1 down and then as little as $10 a month. For more information or to join online, please visit PlanetFitness.ca. SRT Accounting Inc. is a growing Windsor business services and accounting firm born from the idea that “not all small business owners have to be business people.” Evolving from a tech start-up corporation, SRT Accounting launched its marketing effort in October 2018. The firm works in concert with their network of professional accountants on many projects. The Founder of SRT Accounting, Ted Williamson, has always been an entrepreneur. He has owned several small businesses and has also been involved in the start-up industry. He believes that you truly cannot understand the pains of an entrepreneur unless you have experienced their world — the successes and the failures; the stress over employees’ wellbeing

and cash flow headaches. As a young entrepreneur, Williamson was not educated in business. Instead, his background was in the military and contracting, but he came to understand the value of education as a backup to experience and excelled in post secondary school with the highest awards. SRT Accounting utilizes his wealth of experience, along with a professional team of educated individuals, to be the business people behind the small business owner. The team at SRT Accounting live by the motto — “we’ve been there” — because they really have. That is why SRT Accounting offers a variety of services beyond accounting, such as: strategy development, marketing, bookkeeping and payroll. These competencies are essential to any driven, social, and skilled individual working to start or grow a business. SRT Accounting will be the partner that ensures small business owners reach their goals while reducing their stress. To see the full list of their services refer to: SRTaccounting.com. Howard Hyman, a Red Seal certified Chef, comes from a rich heritage of global culinary arts. As the Owner and Creator of Exquisite Events Windsor, Chef Hyman and his Exquisite team take great pride in offering the quintessential culinary experience for their clients. The company offers first class culinary service for weddings, high tea engagements, fundraisers, corporate events, private soirees and elevated family gatherings. Chef Hyman’s experience includes 35 years of culinary success from the opening of Red Lobster restaurants across Canada, as well as overseeing restaurants at Caesars Windsor and contributing to its expansion through 20 years of service. Throughout these and many other experiences, executives approached him to cater to their sophisticated tastes, in the privacy of their homes. The genesis of Exquisite Events Windsor had arrived and its inception became official as of June 2018. Chef Hyman prepares a collage of global cuisine at each guest venue that is tantalizing. By redefining tradition and culture, his “Exquisite Bites” are popular, B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

current, and an adventure in the culinary experience. Indulge yourself! Visit: their website: ExquisiteEventsWindsor.com.

HALL OF FAME Thompson Emergency Freight Systems, 278 Patillo Road in Tecumseh, was recently honoured with a “SmartWay Excellence Award” from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a true industry leader in freight supply chain environmental performance and energy efficiency. Thompson President Mike Ouellette comments: “Thompson is very proud to make a difference environmentally and receiving this ‘SmartWay Excellence Award’ is a great recognition of our continuing efforts.” Specifically, Thompson recognized their cross-border Expedited shipments were better served by a noncommercial Van Fleet (carrying threeskids), as these vehicles offer significant fuel savings compared to commercial trucks, thus reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, Thompson’s “Book A Load . . . Plant A Tree” initiative, has resulted in tens of thousands of native trees planted by Forests Ontario. Thompson Emergency Freight Systems was one of 40 carriers to receive this distinction (winning the Expedited Carrier division), representing the best environmental performers of SmartWay’s 3,700 Partners. The award recipients were honoured at the 2018 “American Trucking Association’s Annual Management Conference & Exhibition” in Austin, Texas in late October. For 33 years Thompson has been a Canadian leader in the cross-border Expedite market, which is vital to maintain supply lines between U.S. and Canadian manufacturers. Expedite shipments are generally time sensitive and require cargo transportation via ground (Three-Skid Vans, Straight Trucks & Tractor Trailers) and/or air (Charter & Cargo). Find further details on Thompson Emergency Freight Systems at: Thompson-Emergency.com and learn more about their award on the following website: EPA.gov/smartway/ smartway-excellence-awardees.

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DATES TO REMEMBER JANUARY 2019

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Jan. 9: A charity pasta event takes place at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Join the Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County for the famous Caboto meat/ vegetarian sauces; salad/buns/butter; and coffee/tea. Cost to attend is adults $10; seniors $9; children aged five to 12 are $7 and under five are free to attend. Take out is available for $11. For more information send an email to: pwinch@aswecare.com; visit the website: AlzheimerWindsor.com or call 974-2220.

Another new year has begun so what do the tarot cards reveal for your future in 2019 and beyond? Find out at the “Windsor Psychic Expo” at the Caboto Club in January. Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/Bialasiewicz.

Jan. 11, 12, 13: 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 print a discount coupon go to: PsychicExpos.com. Jan. 18: Calling all trivia buffs! Be sure to attend the “Battle of the Brains Dinner & Trivia Challenge VIII” presented by the Alzheimer Society of Windsor-Essex County at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road starting at 6:15 p.m. This has become one of Southwestern Ontario’s “must attend” charity events, with over 1,000 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 champ to come out and have a great meal and a wonderful time. Everyone is welcome! Tickets are $360 table/team of eight and include a buffet dinner. To purchase your tickets email Jack Ramieri at: ramieri@millercanfield.com or call the Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County, 974-2220 ext. 255. Jan. 18 to 27: “Heathers: The Musical” presented by Cardinal Music Productions takes place at The Green Room Theatre at E.J. Lajeunesse, 600 E.C. Row Avenue in Windsor from 8 to 10:30 p.m. on selected performance dates. “Heathers: The Musical,” brought to you by the award-winning creative team of Kevin Murphy, Laurence O’Keefe and Andy Fickman, is the darkly delicious story of Veronica Sawyer, a brainy, beautiful teenage misfit who hustles her way into the most powerful and ruthless clique at Westerberg High — the Heathers. “Heathers: The Musical” is a hilarious, heartfelt, and homicidal new show based on the greatest teen comedy of all time. With its moving love

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story, laugh-out-loud comedy, and unflinching look at the joys and anguish of high school. Are you in, or are you out? Admission is $25 general admission. For more information, performance dates and exact show times, check out: CardinalMusicProductions.com; phone 944-5800; or send an email to: cardinalmusic@hotmail.com.

If love is in the air and marriage is the next step, don’t miss the “Wedding Extravaganza ’19: The Big One” featuring lots of local businesses ready to assist you in all your wedding planning! Photo credit: Pixabay.

Jan. 19 & 20: If you are getting married or know someone who is, get to the 32nd annual “Wedding Extravaganza ’19: The Big One” at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. This event 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. Plan your wedding with over 200 wedding professionals, an Interactive Wedding Gallery on site and three fashion shows daily. This is the “must attend” wedding show of the year! For further details email: nancyc@weddingshow.com; refer to: WeddingShows.com or call 978-0676.

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

A Happy Healthy New Year With FL3X Fitness Story And Photo By Joe McParland

Pictured inside his gym in east Windsor, Carlos Puckerin feels his calling on earth is to ensure his clients achieve their fitness and healthy lifestyle goals and can live the best life possible.

lright, the parties are over, the holidays have ended, a new year is here and it’s time for all of us to face reality — we need to get back in shape. From the Public Health Agency of Canada Data Blog (https://infobase.phac-aspc.gc.ca/ datalab/adult-obesity-blog-en.html), we find this warning: “Obesity is at epidemic levels around the world in both children and adults. Although adult obesity in Canada has been relatively steady since 2004, the percentage of adults who are obese today is twice as high as it was in 1978-1979, from 13.8% to 28.2%. This is concerning since obesity is a known risk factor for chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension.” Now for the good news. For Windsorites, there is no lack of health and gym facilities available for those who need to shed a few pounds or want to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. A Google search of Windsor area health facilities and gyms turns up close to 100 listings of businesses, including weight/ training/cardio, Yoga, martial arts, rock climbing, boxing, aerobics/Zumba/Pilates, etc. One of the latest facilities to come on board and make a huge splash, is FL3X Fitness at 10700 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. Housed in a former Mazda dealership building, it was originally Train Station Fitness Centre, until FL3X Fitness Owner, Carlos Puckerin, happened to be in the right place at the right time and purchased Train Station Fitness Centre and changed it over to his brand. Detroit-born and Windsor raised, Puckerin enjoys dual Canadian and U.S. citizenship.

He attended both St. Joseph’s and Assumption high schools, where he participated in football, basketball and baseball. In the latter, he was known as “Little Cecil” — a tribute to Detroit Tigers favourite, Cecil Fielder. After graduation, he enrolled in the Business Administration program at St. Clair College. During his first year he opened his first business, a clothing store on Howard Avenue. It met with such great success that he was “unofficially” counselled by one of his collegiate profs to consider foregoing year two of the program, and, in turn, invest his educational funds back into his business. He took that advice and the business continued to grow as he transitioned its operations to include online sales. It was during these years that Puckerin began to admit how physically out of shape he was as he tipped the scales between 310 to 325 pounds. Elders in his family had begun to experience some health problems because of poor diet and nutrition and lack of exercise. Puckerin himself had not worried about health issues until his beloved grandmother experienced some of her own. “My concern had not been with my health,” he recalls. “I was more concerned on if there was gravy with those potatoes.” His grandmother’s health issues made him realize the food he was eating now could have negative repercussions for his future. Determined to get back into shape, Puckerin became, in his words, “gym-obsessed.” One of his first trainers showed him the importance of having a personal trainer for direction, motivation and accountability. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Through his hard work and dedication, Puckerin was able to lose over 100 pounds and transform his body into an impressive chiselled piece of work. Years later, Puckerin was attending a health and fitness expo in Windsor and met Chris Brookbanks, FL3X Fitness General Manager. Puckerin describes Brookbanks as “the younger brother I never had, but always wanted.” Both had come through the experience of losing 100 pounds in less than a year through becoming gym-obsessed. They soon joined forces at The Challenge Centre on McDougall Avenue and Puckerin also offered his services for a year with World Gym where he went from Trainer to Marketing Manager, covering Southwestern Ontario. From there, he celebrated the grand opening of FL3X Fitness in October 2017 and brought Brookbanks with him. The club offers a number of membership and program options and features top of the line Hammer Strength equipment, steam rooms, childcare, an outdoor facility and many luxury pieces of equipment such as the Jacobs Ladder, Woodway Treadmills, and a reACT machine. And they are open 24/7 with plenty of parking on site. Currently, they have a membership of 1,200 and 300 individuals working with one of their 15 to 20 personal trainers. They also sell their own FL3X brand of nutritional supplements and sports fashion attire. Puckerin believes that what sets FL3X Fitness apart from other gyms “is less a concern with memberships, and more a personal concern with their members.” They are invested in their members’ total physical development. He continues by stating, “We provide nutritional and diet information, so our members can make a commitment to eating healthy meals. We’ve created a strong membership experience for all of our members, no matter what their fitness level and goals are, when they first walk through the doors.” Building on the success of their first year — and responding to numerous inquiries from persons in the city core and the south and west ends of the city — FL3X Fitness is excited to announce the opening of their second location at 2459 Dougall Avenue in the Dorwin Plaza, adjacent to Springz Trampoline and Amusement Park. This will be a significantly larger facility that will feature a dedicated women’s only section. They are planning a May 2019 opening, with their pre-sale office opening in January. For more information visit their website (FL3Xlife.com) or drop into FL3X Fitness at 10700 Tecumseh Road East and say hello to Carlos, Chris and all the fine fitness folks working there.

COVER STORY By Dave Hall

“A Change Would Do You Good,” Windsor Essex! A

s a new year begins, there’s renewed optimism across the Windsor Essex region with new Mayors and Councillors bringing fresh ideas to the table, while business owners are confidently expanding and seeking new customers. The title of this cover story quotes a song recorded and written by Sheryl Crowe (along with co-writers), and for many, change means hope for improvements and a better tomorrow. Change is nothing to be scared of either, in fact, for Windsor Essex, it seems to point towards exciting times for the coming year. Commercial growth across the region is a strong indication that business owners believe consumer confidence will be a major economic factor throughout 2019. Beyond municipal politics and business expansion, there’s a new President and Chief Executive Officer at the head of the WindsorEssex Regional Chamber of Commerce with Rakesh Naidu taking over from interim President and CEO Janice Forsyth. There are changes on the downtown business scene as well, with a new slate of officers sitting on the board of the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association, where a new Chairman will take over from long time downtown booster Larry Horwitz. The new board will meet January 24 at which time a new Chairman is set to be selected by a board, which consists of seven new members. There are also changes at a number of small, but well-established, businesses with Property Mom joining forces with eXp Realty, a cloudbased real estate company; Marica Soleski taking over from veteran Colleen Hurst as head of PROSTAFF Employment Solutions and Eddy Hammoud opening a second

Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro on Lesperance Road in Tecumseh. For retail, things are looking up over at Tecumseh Mall with some new big retail shops, as well Devonshire Mall has already undergone extensive renovations and updates last year with a new food court and Mandarin Restaurant on site. On the political front across the county, there’s a new Mayor in Leamington where Hilda MacDonald unseated incumbent John Paterson. Retirements created openings for new Mayors in the nearby towns and municipalities where in Essex Larry Snively replaces Ron McDermott; in LaSalle Marc Bondy replaces Ken Antaya and on Pelee Island where Raymond Durocher takes over from Rick Masse. It’s a time for change and renewal as a new year begins and what follows is just a small compilation of what Biz X magazine readers can expect to experience over the next 12 months and beyond.

Rookies Looking To Make A Mark

The landscape of Windsor City Council changed dramatically in November 2018 when four new councillors were elected — Fabio Costante (Ward 2); Gary Kaschak (Ward 8); Kieran McKenzie (Ward 9) and Jim Morrison (Ward 10). All four face a steep learning curve when it comes to building a partnership with fellow members of council and working with administration to see their individual priorities come to fruition. For McKenzie (see photo on front cover), it’s mostly about infrastructure in his ward where pedestrian crosswalks, a nature-focused B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

The region is definitely changing gears in business and politics this year. Photo credit: © CanStockPhoto.com/iqoncept

community centre and a library adjacent to Devonwood Conservation Area are high on his constituents’ list of priorities. “A crosswalk on Calderwood Avenue near Woodward Boulevard has been recommended by administration and it will be dealt with during the budget process,” explains McKenzie. “The other at Caron Avenue and Cabana Road has not been recommended, but I believe it’s just as important.” Devonwood, indicates McKenzie, is a gem in the middle of the city, off Division Road and while it’s on protected land, he believes there is ample adjacent land to accommodate a community centre and library, both a first for Ward 9. For Costante, the major issues on the west side range from property standards, rodent control and infrastructure to funding a community centre and ensuring that community benefits flow in a timely fashion from the international consortium building the Gordie Howe International Bridge. “And as far as the Ambassador Bridge project is concerned, we need to ensure that all conditions are met before construction even begins,” states Costante. “I refer to these projects as 100 year bridges and we have one chance to get it right.” Costante adds, “They will have a major impact on the west side, in particular Sandwich, and the residents need to be protected from negative impacts wherever possible.” Meanwhile, Ward 8’s Kaschak — who had run for council twice before — is banking on being able to deliver a community centre for his constituents, as well as dealing with homelessness, addiction and crime, which all go beyond the borders of his ward.

Morrison, who also ran for council four years ago, believes it’s time to focus on infrastructure across the city, even at the cost of big-ticket items such as a new central library. In his ward, traffic congestion at Dominion Boulevard and Northwood Street is a major issue given the close proximity of schools and a mosque, which create problems on a daily basis, not only for commuters, but also residents. Work is expected to begin later this year. All in all, it’s expected to be a busy year for these four rookie councillors as they try to fulfill campaign promises with the hard realities of city-wide spending and balancing the budget. For more information on how to get in touch with all Windsor City Council members or to learn about City Hall matters, visit the website: CityWindsor.ca.

The Future’s Bright For Tecumseh Mall

This year will ring in even more changes at Tecumseh Mall where Europro (Tecumseh Mall) LP, the mall’s new owners as of November 2018, promise a complete exterior retrofit will be completed in 2019. Europro, a Canadian commercial property management company, already owns three other commercial properties in Windsor. New exterior tenants already include: Marshalls, Home Sense, Giant Tiger, PetSmart and Sky Zone trampoline park and the mall’s management team is hard at work to fill interior vacancies. Debra McVeety has returned as General Manager and been joined by Retail Manager Katarina Taylor. “We will have a number of announcements to make in the coming months as we finalize agreements with a new roster of tenants for our inside spaces,” McVeety informs us. “It’s an exciting time at Tecumseh Mall and we are confident our customers will be happy with the changes and additions we have made.” The mall was built in 1973, redeveloped in 1985 and a $16 million expansion was completed in 2001. It is situated at the intersection of Tecumseh Road East and Lauzon Road. The current renovation is expected to cost

Downtown Windsor appears to have fallen on troubled times, but new BIA board members are armed with plenty of energy and determination in order to get the streets bustling again with customers and new businesses. Photo by Jack Rosenberg.

$16 million and will bring the total number of tenants, when all vacancies are filled, to 54. To see a current store directory or find information on events please refer to: TecumsehMall.com.

People For Job, Jobs For People

Matching people with jobs and jobs with people remain the goals for PROSTAFF Employment Solutions, heading into the year. The agency — located at 2557 Dougall Avenue in Windsor (PROSTAFFworks.ca) — is now run by Marica Soleski who bought the business from founder Colleen Hurst in August of last year. “I don’t plan on changing anything,” explains Soleski. “It’s a great company with great staff. I also have Colleen helping out as a mentor and couldn’t think of a better person to help me out than Colleen.” Soleski says the biggest challenges facing employment agencies is matching skill sets and finding general labourers who are in short supply throughout the Windsor area. “When the minimum wage increased, it

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seemed to spur more people into looking for work,” Soleski notes of last year’s bump to $14 an hour. A second increase to $15, which was scheduled to kick in January 1, has been cancelled by the new Conservative government. Soleski points out that two indicators of a growing economy are low unemployment rates and increasing numbers of people seeking work. “We’re constantly seeking people to fill jobs and we are also seeking new clients who need employees,” remarks Soleski. “It’s challenging, but it’s a great job and I look forward to getting up every morning and coming to work.”

A New Real Estate Experience

Team Property Mom is now part of eXp Realty, a fast-growing cloud-based realty company where agents train, work and collaborate in a virtual world without ever having to go into an office. Kim Zdunich, formerly Broker of Record for Property Mom Real Estate Brokerage, folded that company into eXp Realty last August and renamed it Team Property Mom.

listing because we all share in each other’s success,” Zdunich indicates. For more information, check these websites: PropertyMom.com or eXpRealty.com.

Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber Of Commerce Leadership Changes

It was time for a change for Kim Zdunich who is now with Team Property Mom under eXp Realty, the so-called Amazon of real estate. This is a cloudbased real estate brokerage providing 24/7 access to collaborative tools, training and socialization for real estate brokers and agents through its virtual campus environment. Photo courtesy of Emma Davidson of Karitas Photography.

“It was getting to be too much work to run a stand-alone company, so we joined up with eXp, which operates in 50 states and three provinces so we can offer our service to a large number of buyers and sellers,” Zdunich expresses. Zdunich explains that with eXp, all training is done in a virtual world where agents can collaborate in a virtual campus environment without actually meeting in person. Property Mom employs eight full-time agents and one full-time administrator and is actively recruiting more agents for eXp. Looking ahead into 2019, Zdunich expects prices in the local market to continue growing, but at a slower rate than in previous years since interest rates are expected to rise, which often causes a reduction in home sales. Zdunich discloses that listings are down from previous years, which often leaves potential sellers reluctant to list for fear of having nowhere to go. And growing support for an open-bidding process rather than the current blind-bid system is also expected to have an impact on sales prices, she believes. “In a blind-bid process, you would often get one offer that was way over the odds compared to the rest because nobody knew who was bidding how much,” states Zdunich. “In an open-bid system, everyone knows what’s on the table, which will likely lead to the seller getting less for the home.” As for eXp, the company’s offices are owned by agents who also participate in a revenuesharing system, which rewards everyone when sales are made so there is less competition among agents. “We don’t have to compete for the same

Moving over from his role with the Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation, Rakesh Naidu is looking forward to a new challenge as head of the WindsorEssex Regional Chamber of Commerce (WindsorChamber.org). Naidu takes over from Janice Forsyth, interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, who replaced Matt Marchand on a temporary basis when he relinquished his position to run for Mayor of Windsor. But, despite the shift in focus, Naidu believes he’s ideally positioned to lead his members who represent small, medium and large businesses in many retail, industrial and commercial sectors across the county. “Many of the issues are similar, including business retention and expansion,” says Naidu. “I am fully conversant with those issues as well as the issue of diversification, which is critical to our region’s ongoing success.” Naidu points out that diversification doesn’t just mean finding new customers in different sectors in order to become less dependent upon the automotive industry, but it also means looking for new customers in non-traditional markets such as eastern Europe, Asia and Africa. “There are opportunities in aerospace, medical supply and agribusiness sectors, all of which could benefit from our local expertise in technology and automation, so the opportunities are endless,” he mentions.

Rakesh Naidu has been appointed as the WindsorEssex Regional Chamber of Commerce’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective December 12, 2018. Photo courtesy of John Livierio of Sooters Photography.

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And while Naidu and many of his members believe in a minimum wage, they also believe small business owners need time to find efficiencies within their operations, before a new increase is mandated. A scheduled bump from $14 an hour to $15, set to kick in at the beginning of January, was recently cancelled by the Conservative government. “We believe in a living wage philosophy, but we also believe small businesses should be given time to absorb any increases and find ways to afford them and remain profitable so they can still employ the same number of people,” Naidu stresses. All in all it’s expected to be a busy year across Windsor and Essex County for business matters.

Downtown Windsor Still Looking Forward Despite Past Problems

The winds of change blew through downtown like a tornado with seven new members elected to the eight person Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association board, following a recent three day election process involving its members. The new board currently consists of the following individuals: Geoff Zanetti (Villains Beastro); Bryan Datoc (Craft Heads Brewery); Brian Yeomans (Best Western Plus and Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront); David Prantera (Breads Meats Bread); Stephanie Clark (Toasty’s Grilled Cheese and Salad Bar); Liam O’Donnell (Dr. Disc) and Pat Papadeas (St. Clair College). Mary Anne Ducharme (Pearce Ducharme Family Law), the lone incumbent to be re-elected, subsequently stepped down. Whether or not a replacement is named or elected will be decided by the board in January. “We haven’t had a chance yet to sit down as a group and determine a road map moving forward, but I think we all want to see an increase in retail and commercial development throughout the downtown,” says Yeomans. “I think we’d all like to see vacant storefronts filled with independent small businesses to create a better balance between retail and hospitality.” He continues by stating, “There’s nothing wrong with the hospitality business — I work in it myself — but, a city full of bars does not a city make.” To note, Yeomans lives and works downtown. Windsor’s city centre faces many of the same issues plaguing downtowns across North America — addiction, crime and homelessness. In November, the DWBIA decided to hire Peter Bellmio, a Consultant with extensive city-planning experience, to conduct a review of policies affecting Windsor’s downtown and to suggest ways make positive changes. He is expected to report on his recommendations in February 2019.

But, despite the problems, there’s still much to celebrate about the city core. Redevelopment of the former Fish Market/ Loop building at Chatham Street and Ferry Street will soon turn it into a home for Quicken Loans, which will bring many more high-tech workers into the city core. Other spaces undergoing extensive renovations include the former Beer Market and Chatham Street Grill on Chatham Street West. “Those are exciting developments and I think we would all like to see those sort of improvements continue,” says Yeomans.

Brian Yeomans, new DWBIA board member and Business Development Manager for Best Western Plus Waterfront and Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront hotels. Photo courtesy of Brian Yeomans.

As well, it’s expected that the ground floor of 1 Riverside Drive West will be ready for an influx of St. Clair College students later this year. And while redeveloping the Paul Martin building at 185 Ouellette Avenue into a law school for the University of Windsor appears dead in the water, there are hopefully still opportunities to fill that building once again. For more information, take a look at: DowntownWindsor.ca.

WE EDC Focuses On Technology

Diversification has been talked about in Windsor for decades and achieving that goal has never been more important than it is today following General Motors’ announcement that it was closing its Oshawa assembly plant by the end of this year. Mayor Drew Dilkens made diversification the major theme of his inaugural address to City Council and other stakeholders, in early December of 2018. “We agree completely with the Mayor’s sentiments and it’s a validation of our ongoing strategy,” says Stephen MacKenzie, President and Chief Executive officer of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation. “It is where we are focusing the bulk of our business and industry recruitment efforts.” B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

During a recent trade mission to India, WE EDC representatives reached agreements with a number of India-based information technology companies to visit Windsor to see if there’s any possibility of establishing a foothold in the border city. “A critical component of any diversification strategy is workforce development and skills development,” explains MacKenzie. “Ongoing co-operation between Workforce WindsorEssex, St. Clair College and the University of Windsor is all part of the economic eco-system we are putting into place.” As became obvious with GM’s announcement that it was turning away from passenger vehicles and moving towards autonomous and electricpowered vehicles, the auto industry is evolving. “It’s clear that we need to drive the move towards these new technologies so that we don’t become a victim of them,” adds MacKenzie. “If you don’t diversify you are beholden to the whims of the business cycle. It’s not just about attracting new industries, it’s also about helping existing industries diversify their geographical reach as well as their client and customer base.” MacKenzie stresses that encouraging entrepreneurship through the creation of technology-based start-ups is also a critical component of economic development. “I’m very encouraged when looking at this region’s future,” he remarks. “Ongoing efforts

Stephen MacKenzie, CEO of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation. Photo courtesy of WE EDC.

to work with our post-secondary institutions will help them attract new students and create good jobs in this region, in a vast range of new industries.” Stay up to date with WE EDC online at: ChooseWindsorEssex.com.

A New Taste Experience For Tecumseh

Eddy Hammoud is building on the success of Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro, situated at 420 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor (which

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he opened in 2014) by launching a second location at 1614 Lesperance Road in Tecumseh in December 2018. (Note: an online presence can be found by checking out: EddysBistro.ca). “We’re trying our best and holding our own in Windsor, but an opportunity came up to expand into Tecumseh,” explains Hammoud. “It’s a growing area and we’re looking forward to bringing our fresh, made-in-house menu to a new set of customers.” Hammoud, who trained as a Dental Hygienist and planned on studying to be a Dentist, has found a different career path instead. “Over the years, I’ve worked in eight different restaurants and it’s my passion now,” he expresses. “I love going to work every day and not many people can say that.” Eddy’s specializes in Lebanese food including hummus, grape leaves, spinach pie, falafel and skewers as well as soups and salads.

“Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes”

As this article concludes, you have learnt that change seems to be the one constant across Windsor and Essex County as 2019 gets underway. But, from politicians and business owners to reps of area organizations, there also appears to be a sense of optimism and the feeling that consumer confidence is on an upswing and the region is poised for success. Time will tell . . . cross your fingers!

The Salvation Army “Hope In The City Luncheon”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HO November 19, 2018 at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there”!

1. In partnership with the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918), the “Hope In The City Luncheon” featured Keynote Speaker Detroit Tigers legend Willie Horton (sixth from left) and the kickoff for their 2018 Christmas Kettle campaign. Pictured here are a few VIPs, Salvation Army staff and 2018-2019 Windsor Advisory Board members — Major Dana Reid; Major Robert Reid, Area Commander; Major Paul Rideout, Executive DirectorWindsor Community Service; Julian (Jules) Hawkins, Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) President; Shannon Wise, Public Relations & Development Representative; Willie Horton; Gerald Pocock, Advisory Board Chair; Bill Marra, Advisory Board Member; Major Pat Phinney, Divisional Secretary for Public Relations & Development and Jim Crichton, Advisory Board Member. Learn more about this event at: HopeInTheCityWindsor.ca and find further details on the organization by logging on to: SalvationArmyWindsor.ca. 2. Guests from all walks of life and professions filled the hall to support The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Campaign and hear Horton’s inspiring presentation, plus have a chance to purchase an autographed photo and meet Horton in person. Taking a moment to honour our troops before the official program began, we snapped a photo of: Jules Hawkins, Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) President; Neil McTavish, Rotary Member; Major Catherine Wollocombe, Windsor Support Company, 31st Service Battalion and Dave Woodall, 2018-2019 Windsor Advisory Board member. 3. Behind every great ballplayer is a strong partner and fan base. And retired pro baseball legend Willie Horton and 1968 Detroit Tigers World Series Champion had plenty of cheering fans present! He delivered an inspiring message that was universal in nature: “Have

faith in humanity and make it a point to look out for one another.” His words gave everyone in attendance a promise for “Hope in the City” in the coming years. Photographed at the

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luncheon were: an unknown fan; Jim Crichton, Event Emcee and Senior News Anchor CTV News; Lillian Horton (Willie’s wife) and past Rotary President (1918), Peter Hrastovec.

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portfolio corner

Repeat After Me By Steven Mayo

Repeat after me: there are sectors and stocks to look at other than high tech and FAANG (Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google). As I write in late November, the emotions in the market are high because so many tech stocks have dropped more than 20%. However, defensive sectors went up at the same time, these being communications, utilities, REITs, and consumer staples. Unfortunately, very little attention is directed to these sectors. Sexy stocks get all the headlines while stable stocks, not enough! In general, many good companies have been caught up in the increased selling pressure; I call this “collateral damage.” This is the exact time I want to put cash to work. Markets always go down faster than they climb. Growth rates may have come down a notch, but they have not disappeared. Growth is still impressive in tech stocks, and in the economy.

The market has had its own “Black Friday” sale . . . 30% off many good names. Time to go shopping. The worries of the market are legitimate (and they will always be there) . . . rising interest rates, trade wars, moderating growth rates, etc., which is quite opposite to the optimism this past summer. Keep in mind, it’s in times of too much optimism when risk is actually at its highest. Now, we have too much pessimism, and therefore the risk in the market is actually lower. We are back in an environment where stock selection will be rewarded. The word “recession” has also been discussed much more in the media recently, only adding more worries for investors. So, is a recession on the horizon? With the assistance of research from RBC Global Asset Management, the answer is, currently “No.” The indicators, including housing, inventories, U.S. consumer spending, business investment,

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employment, sentiment, and monetary policy to name a few, are not flashing red. There are two things worth highlighting as we go into the New Year. First, today’s market skepticism provides a healthy environment for stock selection. Second, Centrals banks in the U.S. and Canada are not likely to push their economies into recession. Interest rate increases may be slower in 2019 than currently expected. In my opinion, this stock market correction is healthy and has created more room for an extended market up-trend into/in 2019. Repeat after me — choose wisely. Stock selection matters. As usual we wrap up now with a quote: “I will tell you how to become rich. Close the doors. Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.” ~Warren Buffett 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 on information in this article.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN By Rebecca Wright

KRISTINA FOTO

Taking Care Of Business With Windsor Weddings

he owners of a local wedding business wear many hats and have several titles, from officiant to pianist, decorator, DJ, announcer, event planner, marketing manager and more — and often all in one day! Kristina Foto is Co-Owner of Windsor Weddings, along with Joshua Yeryk. Foto says the two take on many varied tasks together — and Yeryk is their “top-notch vocalist.” Foto explains that she and Yeryk met by chance in 2015 when she was searching for the perfect male vocalist to perform at her own wedding. “When we met, we had an instant connection as musicians and friends and before we knew it we were being asked to perform together at other people’s wedding ceremonies,” she recalls.

Earlier this year, Foto received her ordination and is thrilled to have already married many couples. Over the course of the next couple of years, the two worked tirelessly to expand their services beyond just ceremony music. They are proud to now offer a variety of wedding services, including DJ services, decor, lighting and more. Earlier this year, Foto received her ordination and is thrilled to have already married many couples.

Like two peas in a pod, Kristina Foto and Joshua Yeryk, Owners of Windsor Weddings, promote their company together wherever they can, including the 21st annual “Biz X Awards Gala.” Photo by Rod Denis.

“I absolutely love every aspect of the wedding business, but the music aspect will always be closest to my heart,” admits Foto. Windsor Weddings also offers photo booth rentals, via Wünder Booth, with several unique variations of what has become a trending wedding favourite. One of the types of photo booths Foto rents out through her business has an automatic beauty filter feature that enhances skin tones to elevate photo

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quality, which Foto says allows you to focus on “all the important stuff — fun and shenanigans!” Most recently, Windsor Weddings has joined forces with Platinum Room Banquet Hall and Rockstar Music Hall to bring Windsor residents an all-in-one wedding experience, Foto notes. “Couples are able to have the ‘Rockstar Wedding Experience,’ which includes a room for the bridal party to get ready in; an elegant banquet venue; a live band afterparty as well as all of Windsor Weddings’ in-house wedding services for the ultimate in convenience,” states Foto, adding it’s like “a one stop wedding shop!” The office for Windsor Weddings (see her website: WindsorWeddings.ca) can be found at 2418 Central Avenue on the third floor, in the same building housing Rockstar Music Hall. Appointments are very flexible and available seven days a week. Over the years, Foto points out that she and Yeryk have accomplished more than she could have ever dreamed possible, including recording at Abbey Road Studios in England, shooting a music video from a helicopter in Las Vegas and performing at some of the most exclusive venues in Essex County. “To find ourselves at a level of success that also enables us to donate our services to charity fundraisers throughout the year is truly a blessing,” declares Foto. “I am quite proud of how far we’ve come and of the other businesses we now represent through our company Windsor Weddings.”

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Advance Business Systems 27th Annual “American Thanksgiving Football Classic”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT November 22, 2018 at the Windsor Yacht Club, 9000 Riverside Drive East, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. While the Detroit Lions might not have won their U.S. Thanksgiving Day game against the Chicago Bears, the President & CEO of Advance Business Systems, Jack Jorgensen, still had plenty of reasons to smile after raising $13,000 for The Farrow Riverside Miracle Park, represented by Rick Farrow of The Farrow Group. Located at 3290 Jefferson Blvd. in Windsor, Advance Business Systems is Southwestern Ontario’s largest supplier of document management equipment and supplies. It is a distributor for Toshiba and Ricoh document management systems, Ricoh and Lexmark Printers, Wide Formats, Neopost Mailing Systems, Lenovo Computer Systems, plus many more mission-critical office equipment pieces. Find out more at: AdvanceBusiness.net. 2. BJ Turnbull, Executive Chef and Laura Wevers, Food and Beverage Manager of the, once again, host facility for this indoor tailgate party, Windsor Yacht Club, providing football food items like nachos & cheese, chili, hot dogs, chicken fingers and more.

1 To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there!”

3. When completed, The Farrow Riverside Miracle Park will make it possible for children with disabilities to fulfill their dream of playing baseball and participating in Riverside Minor Baseball programs. The committee members on hand, collecting proceeds from raffle tickets sales were: Rick Farrow, Bill Kell, Carrie Lee Denonville, Tom LaPorte, Martin Denonville and Mike Tower. (photo #4 on next page) 4. Over 500 were in attendance, including many event sponsors such as Mike Bezzoubkin and Scott Elliot, Dealer Partners with Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC (2016) Limited.

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4 5. Enjoying an afternoon of watching football were Nick Groen and President Rob Gyori of Impact Staffing Inc., a co-sponsor of the 27th annual “American Thanksgiving Football Classic.” 6. Traditionally, Advance Business System has held this prestigious event as a Customer Appreciation gathering for their clientele, but it has now grown to become Southwestern Ontario’s premiere networking event. Meeting some new contacts and re-connecting with past business executives during the day were: Libro Credit Union’s Lori Atkinson, Regional Manager Essex-Kent and Carolyn Vsetula, Regional Agriculture and Commercial Manager; Veronica Barris, Director of Media & Marketing Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards

and Chase Stoyshin, a Consultant with IG Wealth Management.

are the current owners with Shannon being the fifth generation.

7. Another event co-sponsor was Moir Crane Service Ltd. This family owned business has been around since 1890, serving the Windsor and Essex County region. Shannon Moir-Riendeau and her father Randy Moir

8. Ken Troup, Co-Owner of the Troup Group of Companies poses for a quick photo op with event co-sponsor, Foundation Building Materials (FBM) reps Garrett Mousseau and Michael Marotte.

2019 Home & Lifestyles Show of Windsor Essex Featuring the finest builders, renovators, suppliers & lifestyle personnel in the region! Friday March 1st: 4pm to 8pm Saturday March 2nd: 10am to 5pm Sunday March 3rd: 10am to 4pm

Ciociaro Club of Windsor

Tickets $7

No cost for children

Windsor-Essex Home Builders’ Association www.homeshowwindsor.com 519.948.3247 | windsoressexhba@gmail.com

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The 21st Annual “Cops Care For Kids Fashion Show & Silent Auction”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT November 2, 2018 at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road, Oldcastle. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Once again, the Windsor Police Service joined the Ontario Provincial Police, as well as Amherstburg, and LaSalle Police Services, for a truly exceptional fundraiser! Proceeds from the event benefited programs supported by the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation. Almost $40,000 was raised — exceeding their goal of $25,000! Three local Police Departments were represented at the event including: from the LaSalle Police Service Harbinder Gill, Community & Corporate Affairs Officer, Nawzad Sinjari, Patrol Sergeant and Duncan Davies, Staff Sergeant; Brad Hill, Deputy Chief of Windsor Police; Pamela Mizuno, Deputy Chief of Operations Windsor Police Services; Al Frederick, Chief of Windsor Police Services; Derrick Drouillard, Executive Director, Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS); Terry Johnson, C.O.O. of WECAS and Glenn Miller, Ontario Provincial Police Inspector. For further details on the foundation refer to: WECAF.on.ca. 2. The evening of fashion included many local community and civic leaders and featured models from all police services as well as children wearing collections from Devonshire Mall and Essex County’s finest retailers like

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1 Anne’s on the Avenue, BB Branded, B Vogue Boutique and Our Place Ladies Fashions. Scoring a front row seat to see the models on the runway were: Dawn Charlebois, Pat Ryan, Kim Cedar and Kim Dugal of Windsor Taxi Community Charities, a diamond event sponsor. 3. The event also included a Welcome Reception with tastings from Walkerville

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Brewery, The Cheese Bar and Sprucewood Shores and a delicious meal prepared by the Ciociaro Club, a silent auction and plenty of police vehicles to take pictures in! Returning again as a ruby sponsor was Scott Allen, CEO of Integrity Tool & Mold Inc. who was joined by Tina Gatt, Community Outreach Manager for Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society; Mike Clark, WECAS Manager, Public Relations & Fund Development and Shelley Donovan.

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4. Matt St. Louis of RBC Wealth Management was a ruby sponsor who could not attend the event, but was well represented by his wife Alison who made the night a family affair. In this group photo we have (Back Row): Stefanie Willoughby, Ava Willoughby, Amy McGowean, Alison St. Louis, and Susan Maxwell. (Front Row): Addison Willoughby, Kate Guevremont, Jane St. Louis and Camryn Maxwell. 5. Daisy Lavoie and her daughter Bella represented Tepperman’s Furniture, a sapphire event sponsor and supplier of the raffle grand prize — a 55” 4K UHD HDR Android Smart LED TV. 6. Another sapphire sponsor was Windsor Family Credit Union with Jil Scott, Manager of Sales and Service along with Julie Curtis, Community Support Centre of Essex County, in attendance. 7. Entertainment was also provided by Coffee House Combo with dance performances by Border City Dance Company. Over 350 guests turned up to take in all the action, including Shelley Kelly, Intake Supervisor Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society and her husband Matt Kelly, Owner of The Victoria Tavern.

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THE PARENTING BIZ Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/weedezign.

FEATURE STORY by Rebecca Wright

Ring In The New Year With A Commitment To Keeping The Family Happy And Healthy J

anuary is a time for reflection. It’s a time to thoughtfully consider your life in terms of what you want out of it and what’s truly important to you. And so, as is typical for this time of year, people are starting new resolutions, revisiting past commitments, keeping traditions alive or starting new ones. It’s about bettering yourself for your family, and finding new ways to spend time with the ones you love, to grow both as individuals and together. At the heart of many of these resolutions is family. Love and happiness is attained through caring for oneself as well as for others — both those related by blood and those friends who are so close they feel like family. Read on to discover some ways you can become a better version of yourself through successfully committing to a variety of resolutions and traditions.

At Superbowl Lanes (website: SuperbowlLanes.com), you’ll also find a tasty, full menu with items sure to please even the pickiest of palettes. They also do kids parties, corporate parties and lots of fundraisers as well. “We are the only locally owned 10-pin bowling alley in Windsor,” asserts Clarkson, adding, “We buy 95 percent of our products locally, we try to support local as much as we can.” The business is a 2016 Biz X Award winner for “The Lanes That Bowl You Over.” Be sure to schedule in their Rock ‘n’ Bowl every Friday and Saturday night at 9:30 p.m. to get your family moving and grooving while you bowl!

New Year’s Resolution . . . Have Weekly Family Outings

Across Windsor Essex, there is surely no shortage of family-friendly things to do. And where the region is located in Ontario is perfect — just a quick day trip to many unique adventures to explore. Planning a fun activity each week (and not just Saturday morning hockey practices), can give you quality family time together.

Superbowl Lanes

This family outing is sure to be right up your alley — bowling alley that is! Check out Superbowl Lanes at 10000 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor for some friendly competition and relaxing good old fashioned entertainment. “I think it’s a great idea to spend more time with your family in the New Year, and as much as you can,” states Cory Clarkson, who owns and operates Super Bowl Lanes with Mike Doidge.

Elgin County Railway Museum Will it be a strike or gutter ball for this little one? Superbowl Lanes is the perfect place for a family outing this winter. Photo courtesy of Della Jones-Goulet.

The pair went from owning multiple bars — that didn’t have a family atmosphere — to owning this family business, and they say it worked out great. “We get to be with our families more now and the kids love it,” says Clarkson. “Mike and I are lucky to own a bowling alley where it’s fun for all ages and it’s a great family activity.” B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Just a two hour drive away, the Elgin County Railway Museum offers something for train fans of all ages, and is a great daytrip for families in Windsor Essex. “Located in a century-old, locomotive repair shop, visitors can take a step back in time and tour railway artifact displays, historical photographs, our impressive collection of railway rolling stock equipment and the very popular History in Motion Model Railway,” lists Dawn Miskelly, Executive Director. “Guests are also welcome to climb aboard and explore

THE PARENTING BIZ our Baggage Car Exhibit, the interior of a real caboose and cab of the enormous CN 5700 Steam Engine!” There are train play tables for the little ones and the museum also offers special familycentred programs and events including “Touch a Truck, Touch a Train!” in the spring, and “A Day Out With Thomas the Tank Engine” in July. The Elgin County Railway Museum (ECRM5700.org) is located in St. Thomas, Ontario. The drive from the Windsor region can either be made via Highway 401 or the slightly longer, more scenic route along Highway #3, according to Miskelly. “We see a lot of families visiting the Railway Museum — not just parents and their children, but often multi-generational families with grandparents joining in or bringing the grandkids as a special trip,” comments Miskelly, adding that they have guided tours and the average family visit is about an hour. The museum has seasonal hours, so it’s recommended visitors call or check their website to confirm it’s open before starting their journey. “If you visit in the fall or winter, the locomotive repair shop section of our building is not heated — so make sure to dress warmly,” she advises. With all of the technology surrounding kids

(LEFT) Dawn Miskelly poses for a photo in front of some historic locomotives on display at the Elgin County Railway Museum. (RIGHT) A couple of young train fans have some fun at the Elgin County Railway Museum. Photos courtesy of the Elgin County Railway Museum.

and families in today’s society, taking day trips to places like museums gives families the opportunity to unplug, turn off the screens and spend time making memories together, Miskelly asserts.

New Year’s Resolution . . . Exercise & Eat Healthier

When it comes to feeling good inside and out, we all know that eating right and exercising is important, and there are many local options that can provide some extra help in achieving these goals and sticking to these very important resolutions.

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Savoured RD Wellness & Breathe Pilates And Fitness Studio

Food is always around us and it can be a challenge to make nourishing choices. As Lauren Fleming notes, we truly are what we eat, so it is important to eat foods from a variety of food groups for us to feel our best and stay healthy, long term. Fleming is a Community Dietitian and a Dietitian-Nutritionist at Savoured RD Wellness (SavouredRD.com), which is a consulting services business, and a Yoga and Pilates Instructor at Breathe Pilates and Fitness Studio (BreathePilatesandFitness.com).

THE PARENTING BIZ mind that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean avoiding fun foods that you enjoy. “I think the most important thing is for people of all ages to learn to build a healthy relationship with food, where food remains a positive part of your life rather than a source of stress, guilt or discomfort,” she states.

City Of Windsor Recreation & Culture

Lauren Fleming offers great advice and guidance through Savoured RD Wellness, noting: “You are what you eat.” Photo courtesy of Christina Bender.

“As a nutrition professional and mindbody fitness instructor, my focus is supporting clients in making sustainable changes that fit within their lifestyle,” states Fleming. “My background in yoga allows me to integrate mindful practices into my counselling for a holistic approach — going beyond just what you eat to discussing what influences your eating habits and improving relationships with foods.” Working with a nutrition professional can help to clarify your goals, give you additional tools to help you achieve them, and a check in to support you along the way, Fleming points out. “It can be really helpful for families to work with a dietitian in order to help them to build positive eating habits early on,” she suggests. “This often means that parents end up making some positive changes to act as role models for their kids.” Fleming also wants everyone to keep in

The City of Windsor’s Recreation & Culture department provides many opportunities for children, youth and adults to participate in a wide variety of leisure programs that promote good overall health. “There is extensive literature and studies that document the benefits of recreation and sport for children and youth,” notes Jennifer Valdez, Acting Manager for Community Programming, Recreation and Culture for the City of Windsor. “Benefits that are attributed to participating are increased selfesteem, enhanced physical development and improved health and lifestyle choices.” Through the City of Windsor, the possibilities are endless when it comes to ways to exercise both your body and mind. So consider cutting back on TV and screen time to take part in a wide range of city-run activities. There’s something for everyone at every age. When it comes to dancing, they have classes like ballet, belly dancing, hip hop, line dancing, salsa and more. Their fitness classes range from yoga, to boot camp, cycling, hiking, kickboxing, Pilates and more. The City of Windsor also offers many organized sports opportunities, such as pickleball, volleyball, tennis and drop-in basketball. Valdez mentions some of their most popular programs include: gymnastics, soccer and swimming lessons. They also feature art activities that are diverse and interesting, including pottery workshops and glass fusion workshops, crochet and more.

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The City of Windsor offers many ways for kids to be active and also have a good time, such as taking part in “cheernastics” programs, as shown here at the Forest Glade Community Centre. Photo courtesy of the City of Windsor.

In addition, there are parent and child cooking classes, and unique classes you wouldn’t even think of! Some examples are cartooning, where you learn how to develop your doodling skills, or a class called Movie Makers, where kids are taught how to plan and shoot a short movie. “We provide affordable recreation and our hope is that children and youth will try new things and develop a healthy and active lifestyle at an early age,” Valdez comments. Their programs are offered at various venues across the city, including: Adie Knox Herman Recreation & Customer Care Complex, Adventure Bay Family Water Park, Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex, Charles Clark Square, various arenas and community centres, Ojibway Nature Centre, Mackenzie Hall and more. Valdez indicates that the City of Windsor has a new and improved online registration system that can be accessed at: ActiveWindsor.ca.

New Year’s Resolution: . . . Take Better Care Of Our Bodies

Physical health is oftentimes top-of-mind for people at this time of year, and small changes, such as medical check-ups, can have a huge impact in the long run.

THE PARENTING BIZ

Pediatric Dentist Dr. Alex Meriano, Owner of Dr. Alexandria Meriano Dentistry Professional Corporation, examines a young patient. Photo courtesy of Robyn Semande.

Dr. Alexandria Meriano Dentistry Professional Corporation

A local Dentist suggests that New Year’s Resolutions are a great opportunity to take stock of your oral health habits. “Remember that your oral health is an important part of your overall health,” states pediatric Dentist Dr. Alexandria Meriano, Owner of Dr. Alexandria Meriano Dentistry Professional Corporation (website: DrMeriano.com), located at 1720 Howard Avenue, Suite 358, in Windsor. She suggests that dental-related New Year’s Resolutions could include scheduling that check-up you may be putting off with your dentist. “They can see things that you cannot,” notes Meriano. “The saying, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ is very true in regard to dental oral health.” Committing to brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is also very important.

“Watch your technique,” she stresses. “Your dentist would be happy to advise what works best for you.” Quitting smoking, tobacco use or recreational drugs is also important she adds, as they have many detrimental effects on oral and overall health. “Cut back on sugary liquids and snacks,” she continues, adding, “Drink more water. It rinses away food particles, dilutes acid in your mouth and hydrates your oral tissues.” Reducing stress is another one of her recommendations as she indicates it can lead to grinding your teeth and dry mouth, which may mean broken teeth and increased rates of decay. Wearing a sports mouth guard when engaging in sports is also recommended to help protect your teeth and prevent concussions. “Optimize your smile and take pride in it,” states Meriano. “Get those cavities filled or consider braces to straighten out crooked teeth or jaw discrepancies.” Kids are motivated by fun and positive encouragement and Meriano suggests making healthy resolutions something the family can do together. “Consider turning it into a competition or keep track in a way that it is easy for kids to follow,” she recommends. She points out that parents need to particularly pay attention to their own dental health as well, as they tend to be better at taking care of their kids than themselves. “Bringing your kids to the dentist should remind parents that they need to spend some time on their own oral and overall health,” concludes Meriano.

Bellemore Optometry & Eyes On Tecumseh

School aged children use their vision for 80 percent of learning, which should make eye exams a huge priority for children, and yet so many children go without them, according to local Optometrist Dr. Janice Bellemore. “One in four children has a reading

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Optometrist Dr. Janice Bellemore, Owner of Bellemore Optometry Eyewear & Eyecare and Eyes on Tecumseh resolves in 2019 to continue to educate the local community on the importance of vision and eye health for children. Photo by Rod Denis.

problem that could be helped with vision correction,” asserts Bellemore, Owner of Bellemore Optometry Eyewear & Eyecare, located at 1720 Howard Avenue, Suite 168, in the Windsor Health Centre. Bellemore has been the sole owner for more than 25 years. Two years ago, Bellemore opened another location called Eyes on Tecumseh, located at 13039 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh. Both locations have a store within it called Sunglass Cove, which she also owns. (More details on all their services here: BellemoreOptometry.com). Bellemore was the founder of “Kids Health Day” and she has volunteered with several schoolboards to provide free vision screenings to elementary school aged children. She is also the current President of the Windsor and Essex County Optometric Society. “Adults and children should have an

THE PARENTING BIZ eye examination every year to rule out ocular diseases that can cause vision loss,” recommends Bellemore. “Conditions such as macular degeneration and glaucoma seldom have symptoms until it is too late and vision loss cannot be fully recovered.” Bellemore stresses that it is especially important children have their first eye exam at six months old, and then again at age two — provided there are no diagnosed concerns at the six month exam. “Babies cannot tell you they have a vision problem,” states Bellemore. “And when they are old enough to talk, they may not tell you because they have no idea they have a problem.” Bellemore recommends people, young and old, wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection. In the year ahead, Bellemore will remain committed to advocating for eye health in children and youth. “I am resolved in 2019 to continue to educate the community of Windsor and Essex County on the importance of vision and eye health for school-aged children and promote the importance of annual eye examinations for children,” asserts Bellemore. “Eye exams are free for children and yet many are suffering with poor vision.”

New Year’s Resolution . . . Improve Relationships

Building and maintaining healthy relationships is the foundation of happiness and fulfillment. It’s about how we relate to others in the world — whether we know them on a personal level or not. How we treat others will affect how we feel about ourselves, and the notion of “paying it forward” can play a big part.

Cornerstone Family Care

According to a local Clinical Psychologist, setting realistic and positive personal goals can be an important part of maintaining good mental health. “Actively engaging in the pursuit of goals distracts us away from unhealthy habits or urges, decreases stress, and distracts us from focusing on things that are negative,” notes Dr. Heather Hallam-Helbich, who owns Cornerstone Family Care with her husband Carl Helbich. Accomplishing a goal builds mastery and a sense of personal pride, it establishes positive habits for continued good health, and it provides evidence that even little changes can help us feel good about ourselves, adds Hallam-Helbich. The resolution of “paying it forward”

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Dr. Heather Hallam-Helbich, Co-Owner of Cornerstone Family Care, believes doing things for others and being selfless can be a mood-booster, which can improve your relationships with others. Photo courtesy of Rodney Denis.

takes the concept of setting personal goals to another level. “When we selflessly give of ourselves to help others, it can make us feel good for various reasons, including the following: we feel appreciated, we are responsible for helping someone else have a more positive

THE PARENTING BIZ day, we potentially played a part in making the community a better place and setting a positive example to inspire others to do nice things for others,” states Hallam-Helbich. Paying it forward in even small ways can have a significant impact on people, decreasing their stress, improving their relationships, increasing their self-confidence, boosting their mood and decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression. “Giving of one’s self, without expecting anything in return, can take many shapes and forms, with various levels of commitment,” Hallam-Helbich comments and adds, there is no one “right” way to do it in order to feel the positive outcomes. Hallam-Helbich refers to a few examples such as: volunteer work, paying for the coffee of the person behind you in the drive-thru, holding the door for someone, collecting litter when you go for a walk, spending quality one-on-one time with your children, giving blood, donating time, money or needed items to a good cause, saying thank you, or giving a compliment. She continues by stating family members can improve relationships at home by doing something as simple as recognizing when a chore needs to be done — such as laundry,

cleaning or doing the dishes — and doing it without being asked. Developed to be a place where members of the community can gain fast access to mental health services and support, Cornerstone Family Care, 350 Devonshire Road in Windsor (and on the web at: CornerstoneCare.ca), provides therapeutic and counselling services to individuals of all ages and their family members. “All too easily we can slip into being a passive observer in our lives, focusing on the negative aspects of the news, comparing ourselves to others who appear to have a better life, avoiding challenges and complaining about how others behave,” Hallam-Helbich remarks. “Living like this can cause great disappointment, negatively affect relationships, make people anxious and/or depressed and decrease their sense of mastery.” Becoming a more proactive member of the community and making a resolution to pay it forward can break this cycle, she asserts. “When people realize that they can effect positive change by taking control of their own behaviour, they become less wrapped up in what isn’t working well in their lives and they are on their way to changing negative habits,” she explains.

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Establishing a more internal locus of control gives people confidence that they are not only capable of making their own decisions, but they can have a positive impact in the world. “When people experience making a positive impact on others, they can appreciate their value as a member of the community, they have improved positive experiences in their own lives, and their mood can be significantly boosted,” says Hallam-Helbich.

New Year’s Resolution: . . . Plan A Big Trip

They say you can learn a lot about yourself through learning about others. What better way to do so than exploring the world and discovering other cultures and ways of life? Travelling is good for the soul, and it’s something many of us should do more often.

LaSalle Travel Services, Inc.

A local travel agent says she has personally realized that “accumulating stuff” just isn’t really that important — one of the many reasons to spend those funds elsewhere, like on travelling, seeing the world and having meaningful and memorable experiences. “I see that in many people as well,”

THE PARENTING BIZ

LaSalle Travel Services Inc. Co-Owner Betty Hutson says she’s noticed a trend towards families — young and old — making it a point to travel more. Photo courtesy of Andrea Sears.

Betty Hutson, Co-Owner of LaSalle Travel Services, Inc. says. “And it doesn’t necessarily have to be elaborate, but just something that will make you happy and create memories.” Hutson owns LaSalle Travel Services, Inc. (LaSalleTravel.ca) with Jacqueline Mizon. Located at 5841 Malden Road, Suite 118 in LaSalle, the two have been running the business together since 1997. Travelling more and making a resolution to commit to have more family getaways is becoming more and more prevalent, according to Hutson.

“We have had a huge surge of parents travelling with their children in the last 15 to 20 years,” Hutson indicates. “I think family travel has become an important aspect in family life because everyone is so busy and it is a time when everyone is together without any major distractions and they can just focus on being together and doing things they enjoy and creating memories that last forever.” Hutson also thinks parents want to expose their children to different cultures and customs to get children out of their comfort zone. They consider travel educational and a good investment for their future, she adds. More and more grandparents are also taking their children and grandchildren away and paying for the whole kit and kaboodle, Hutson comments. Instead of leaving an inheritance, they want to see their family enjoy a vacation experience and bond with them. “They have raised their children and they have the time and money to do something special,” states Hutson adding even younger people are deciding to go away while they are young so they are able to do the more adventurous things they desire. Hutson notes their agency has been in business almost 22 years now and all of

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the agents who work there have plenty of travel experience. “We have expertise in almost every area of the world, from Alaska, to Asia, to the South Pacific, to Europe and Africa,” Hutson declares. “If we haven’t been there, we know the contacts to reach out to in order to get expert opinions and information.” Hutson believes travelling is a great learning experience and opportunity to discover different lifestyles and cultures — something that helps you grow and develop both as an individual and as a family. She wraps up the importance of our fifth and final resolution here: “There are lots of places to spend disposable income, but I know personally that travel gives me — and a lot of people we come into contact with — great joy and satisfaction.”

2019

Family Goal . . . Stick To Those Resolutions!

There are countless resolutions people make at the start of a new year and we have explored just a few of our favourites in this article. All five resolutions mentioned have been kept simple so your chances of keeping each may improve. We hope you can use our suggestions or even make your own great resolutions for your family. Happy New Year, everyone!

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THE PARENTING BIZ KIDS Cam Cadarette: Helping Windsor’s IN THE Homeless With Life Packs COMMUNITY By Dave Hall

am Cadarette is a young man on a mission to help the homeless in our community, while at the same time bringing attention to people who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). At 14, Cadarette is already an award winner for his philanthropic efforts as the originator of Project Teal, which helps highlight the issues facing people suffering from PTSD, including first responders and armed service veterans. Cadarette, who works with a service dog to help with his own PTSD issues, started the campaign after he was denied entry to area grade schools because officials wouldn’t allow him to bring his dog Vincent. “They didn’t recognize the need I had, but I’ve been going to the Canadian Christian Academy for the past two and a half years

and it has worked out very well,” explains Cadarette. “I decided to launch my campaign to bring awareness of the PTSD issue to the public and that’s pretty much how all this started.” He continues by stating “my initial goal was to help myself with these issues in the way of therapy, but the more I got into it, the more I wanted to help others.” After launching Project Teal two and a half years ago, Cadarette decided to add a fundraising component to buy supplies for the homeless and hand them out in Life Packs to people living on Windsor’s streets. Since then, he has filled and distributed more than 200 Life Packs, which include essential items such as hats, scarves and toiletries to homeless people. He has also donated 35 packs to homeless people in Chatham. For the most part, the money to fill these

Cam Cadarette, far right, and his service dog Vincent, are surrounded by supporters and classmates from Canadian Christian Academy who helped assemble the Life Packs for distribution to Windsor’s homeless. Photos courtesty of Nicole McMillan.

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Cam Cadarette and his service dog Vincent hand out Life Packs, filled with essential items such as scarves, hats and toiletries, to people living on Windsor’s streets.

packs has come from Cadarette and his mother Nicole McMillan. He has also received some donations from a private auto group called Unfinished Business, from family members and Not Just A Dad (N.J.A.D.; on: Facebook.com/notjustadad), a dad’s group, which donated 150 scarves and hats. For his efforts, Cadarette recently received an award at a Youth Excellence gala in recognition of all his hard work in promoting PTSD awareness and fundraising for the homeless. “He’s an inspiration to all of us for the way he has taken on this campaign to help people,” his mother says. “I am so proud of what he’s doing for people less fortunate, in our community.” McMillan also mentions that during her son’s speech following his award presentation, he stated “you never know how much a pair of socks means to someone until you see the tears in their eyes when you give them some.” Cadarette indicates his campaign will continue with more Life Packs handed out on a quarterly basis. “The need is endless,” he points out. “I intend to continue raising awareness and raising funds for as long as I can help people who are less fortunate.” For more information on Project Teal, please see the not-for-profit organization’s social media page at: Facebook.com/ ProjectTealPTSD and their new website: Project-Teal.weebly.com.

THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

Oven 360 Pizza, Panini & Gelato,

FOR THOUGHT

1349 Grand Marais Road West, Windsor, ON By David Clark

ruly a hands-on operation, the people at Oven 360 Pizza, Panini & Gelato specialize in true artisan-crafted pizza, making all of it by hand and the old fashioned way, since February 2018. Customers have the option of choosing from any of the 50 toppings to savour, from exotic to traditional Italian ingredients. You will enjoy this authentic Neapolitan style “craft” pizza, which originates from Naples, Italy. It is a thin crust, starting with a special tomato sauce base and mozzarella. You do the rest or choose from any of the house pizza selections. According to part Owner/Chef, Remo Tortola, with 15 years at The Caboto Club making pizza: “We will stretch and prepare the dough right in front of the customer, then dress the pizza and cook it right in front of them. These include ‘design your own pizza’ or house select toppings.” The other resident Owner/Chef at the helm is Lucio Franceschelli, who was with Cara Pasta for 10 years, sees this endeavour as Windsor’s newest pizza concept. “If you dream it, we make it!” he exclaims. Matthew Duronio and Huy Nguyen are also Owners of Oven 360 and look after the business and administration side of the venture. Getting back to the pizza, everyone likes to build their own, but the pizza created at Oven 360 is put together with ingredients that both Chefs Tortola and Franceschelli have created or imported and were tested by experts. One of the big reasons for trying the pizza at Oven 360 is the unique oven that was fabricated and shipped from Italy. “We can cook a pizza for you in three minutes or under,” boasts Tortola. “Our oven is responsible for making a special tasting pizza experience, unique to your waiting palette.” Some of the house selections at 360 include: the Francesco with sweet potato, goat cheese, garlic, and parsley with no sauce. A mostly veggie favourite is the 4 Stagioni (4 seasons), stacked with mushrooms, artichokes, olives and ham. And of course, the spicy and zesty Oven 360 choice will get your attention with rapini, sausage and hot peppers with no sauce. “Oven 360 does carry gluten-free pizza crusts, vegan cheese and all vegetables are locally sourced,” says Franceschelli.

Artisan craft pizza, authentic panini and colourful salads are the staples of the Oven 360 menu. Photo courtesy of the staff at Oven 360.

The menu may have only a few selections, but all are authentic Italian items and made to perfection. There are also several kinds of paninis made with fresh ingredients, including the Italian and Prosciutto varieties. And when you want to eat healthily and light you can investigate the small to large deluxe salads served in a bread bowl. A real treat to top it all off is the homemade Gelato. Fifty flavours are made here, with at least 12 flavours to choose from every day.

Owners and Chefs, Remo Tortola (left) and Lucio Franceschelli share over 20 years of experience as masters of the oven. Photo courtesy of the staff at Oven 360.

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Some of the uniquely delicious choices are: the Black Vanilla, Sicilian Cannoli and Crème Brulee Cheesecake. Many customers also enjoy the Nutella, Pistachio and Cappuccino selections. Tortola adds, “Oven 360 does have a thriving take-out business, which is great for hosting large parties. Also, our customers can order using our online ordering system, available on the website: Oven360.com. They can choose the time to pick up, and click through the items available.” Regarding future expansion, having already achieved success with their concept, Oven 360 is expanding to three new locations. A Walker Road site recently opened at the end of 2018 in the Walkerside Plaza, with LaSalle and Emeryville to follow in early 2019. As well they are currently searching East Windsor for another suitable place to set up shop. With the original Grand Marais West location that has been open from the beginning, they were a Biz X Award nominee for “The Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot for 2018!” “We are extremely proud to deliver a truly authentic menu along with a unique dining experience in Windsor and the surrounding area,” Franceschelli explains. From the pizza to begin with, our customers can experience what it means to be ‘Puro Italiano.’ We have also worked very hard to create a friendly, family atmosphere that is fun and exciting for everyone to enjoy.” For more about Oven 360 regarding hours/menu items and the latest happenings, check out: Facebook.com/OVEN360.

The Rotary Club Of Windsor-Roseland’s 23rd Annual “Wines Of The World”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT October 19, 2018 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. This yearly wine and culinary extravaganza is never one to miss if you love to sip on fine wine, beer and spirits plus feast on unique appetizers and sweets. A fundraiser supporting important local and international projects for the Rotary Club of WindsorRoseland (see: RoselandRotary.com to learn about the club), The 2018 “Wines Of The World” event raised $24,000, thanks to generous sponsors and patrons. Pictured are Event Planning Committee members: Anne Chetty, Chair; Aruna Koushik, Mara Riccardi and Briar Jansons.

cheeses on a regular basis and proudly carry over 10 producers from Ontario, Quebec and PEI.

2. Always big Rotary supporters, we find the staff of River’s Edge Tap & Table: Anita McRae, Chef Robert Slaunwhite, Lisa Labute and John Janisse. This restaurant in the Riverside area also offers special events catering on site, so check them out for the next big party you plan for 2019.

5. Poof! Wizards of Walkerville Owner, Gabrielle (Gabby) Bleyendaal, magically made caramel pretzel tarts and fall cupcakes appear for our photographer! Wizards is a Ottawa Street bistro and bar with 400 board games on the shelves and a full service menu.

3. Jen Leavoy, Sarah Barrette, Owner and Natalie Pisciotto, operate The Cheese Bar, which specializes in 100% Canadian made Artisanal Cheese and local charcuterie. They have a selection of more than 60

6. Pelee Island Winery’s Myles Ferber, Tour Guide and Michael Tome, Retail Sales, broke out a bottle of bubbly with LOLA, a Rose Sparkling wine crafted with Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes.

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4. Over 325 guests had the opportunity to chat with local business owners on site, including Melissa Muscedere, Assistant Winemaker and Winemaker in Training. They also were able to partake in plenty of wine samplings, including the 2016 Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc, in Muscedere’s hands, from her family business, Muscedere Vineyards.

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1 7. Michelle Turnbull, General Manager at CREW Winery (Colchester Ridge Estate Winery) poured a glass of 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon to guests coming by her station at the event. 8. Photographed are two students from the culinary program at St. Clair College, Sheekeena Lavilette and Arvinder Kaur, who served patron Kelly McLeod a plate of crispy sweet and sour wontons from the Chinese food establishment, the Red Sail Restaurant on Walker Road.

T SHOTS

9. Chapter Two Brewing Company is one of Windsor’s newest small batch craft brewing companies situated between Walkerville and Ford City. Server Liz Robertson informed

attendees they can enjoy stadium hot dogs or munchiesm, with a pint, at their Edna Street building during operating hours, or take a couple of jugs home to use later.

Your Wedding AT PELEE ISLAND WINERY

519.733.6551

events@peleeisland.com www.peleeisland.com

8 To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there”!

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“Artilicious” To Benefit The Kidney Foundation Of Canada

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HO November 21, 2018 at Caesars Windsor, Augustus Ballroom,

377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Erika Muscat, Fund Development Officer of the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter and Emcee Dan MacDonald, On Air Personality for 93.9 The River, were ready to meet and greet 500 attendees at the fifth annual “Artilicious,” a yearly event where FOOD meets ART meets FUN! Plenty of tasty dishes were on the menu from 33 eateries, but guests were also given the opportunity to shop 16 local artisan vendors who showcased their unique art and literature for sale. And most importantly, the fundraising aspect of this evening was a big success with over $20,000 raised! 2. The Biz X Award winner for “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot for 2017,” On A Roll Sushi & Sliders, presented their unique twist on egg rolls and delicious bites of sushi, as displayed by Owners Lucky and George Stratis. Experience for yourself the best sushi around at their downtown Windsor location! 3. Bacchus Ristorante on Erie Street East served “Vern’s Pierogies” and meatballs,

with Owner Vern Myslichuk overseeing helpers Toni Spadafora, Chef Jason Eifert and Jodi Bennett. 4. Owners of The Meal Prep Company, Rashad and Katie Yalda, offer healthy and convenient pre-cooked meals, with in-store pickup and online ordering/delivery available at their place of business. Their caprese stuffed balsamic chicken skewers with sweet potato and roasted red pepper soup were a big hit with guests at “Artilicious.” 5. Scott Walker and Owners Liana and Ron Giles — a husband and wife team — of The Harvest Table at the Market Square on Ottawa Street, served up mini gyros and hearty mulligatawny soup. 6. As an Author, Windsorite Jenn Sadai uses her own life experiences to inspire those struggling through similar challenges. Her mission is to support and empower women and with five books now published, she is well on her way to achieving her goal.

Curious about this and other events for the local Kidney chapter? Log on to: Kidney.ca/WindsorEssex for the latest details on all their 2019 events!

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OT SHOTS

7. Vito’s Pizzeria Chef Tristan Johnston and Host/Server Conner Thomson, prepared arancini and nona polpette for all guests, including local Artist Debbie Powell. Both items were simply magnifico! 8. Head Chef Josh Bourque and Heather Thibert from the Walkerville Eatery, had everyone lining up for their “Pulled Pork Sundae” in a waffle cone with

baked beans, pulled pork, creamy coleslaw and sweet BBQ sauce inside.

9. Souq (the Arabic word for market) opened in October 2018 to rave reviews on its Middle Eastern and North African dishes. At the event, Owner Ghassan Bassiso and Salam Muddathir, took diners, including patron Anne Kennedy, on a culinary adventure of kufta bi tahini and vegetarian mousaka.

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“Already Ready Meals Fit for a King”

Turning busy bodies into better bodies. Fresh healthy meals to go.

Take the prep out of your meal prep. Lots of Gluten free, Dairy free, Vegetarian, and Vegan options. In store pick up and delivery available. 226-221-9797

BBIZIZ XX MMAAGGAAZZININEE •• JJAANNUUAARRYY 22001199

3850 Dougall Ave. Windsor, ON

thempco.ca

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(Hot Shots continue from previous page. . . ) 10. Server Kira Warren and Domino’s Franchise Owner Richard Falkner had dozens of varieties of pizza for hungry guests at their station. (photo on previous page)

11. Owner/Chef Michael Barlozzari, of KOMA Restaurant, wants his customers to feel like they are at his house as friends, enjoying good food and great company. With amazing food and a charming personality, he definitely has this covered! The KOMA Chef is photographed showing off his creation of beef tenderloin with smoked gouda, vin cotto, caramelized onion and white truffle oil in a tart. 12. For those with a sweet tooth, the Owner of Luxurious Morsels Laura Malott, offered decadent truffles and cookies that just melted in your mouth and had you craving for more. 13. Windsor Artist and Fashion Illustrator Christy Litster has completed a variety of murals throughout the region and been awarded several grants, over the last two years. In 2018 she began her intensive study of Sacred Geometry with the mission of healing her body from cancer through spiritual practice. She now dives into Visionary Art. 14. A perfect way to wrap up this photo spread ends with not a morsel of food left in the place as Rachael Myers of Little Foot Foods proved. “Artilicious” guests gobbled up their pierogies and biscuits in a record 15 minutes. We think it’s pretty safe to say everyone left with a full belly and a happy heart!

To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there”!

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BBIZIZ XX MMAAGGAAZZININEE •• JJAANNUUAARRYY 22001199

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Biz X Talks TV And Movies With Tony Todd By Jason Kerluck

t the end of this past September, the region was treated to a visit by many celebrities from the horror and Sci-Fi genre. It was all thanks to recent Biz X Award winner “Windsor ComiCon” (WindsorComiCon.com), an event that brought the stars and their fans together again for the fourth year in a row. As detailed in our article, immediately following the event on our website: BizXmagazine.com, there was something for everyone who appreciates the world of super heroes, horror flicks, and comic books. However, it’s those visiting celebrities who take the experience to the next level for many fans, raising the level of excitement. To meet an actor face to face, when you have only watched him or her on the big screen is a treat indeed. For many, it was former wrestler-turned-movie-star Tyler Mane (Michael Myers in the Halloween movies and Sabretooth in X-Men) they wanted to meet. To their delight, while imposing in size, he was a gentle giant and fans left grinning ear to ear. But for some, even Mane wasn’t geeky enough. That’s because while he has had his giant hands in many different franchises, he simply can’t beat the current King of Geekdom . . . the incomparable Tony Todd! Biz X magazine seized an exciting opportunity, during the two day event, to sit down and interview this accomplished actor. And we were promptly taken to school when it comes to the world of movies! Among his many acting credits, Todd has played Candyman, Kurn in Star Trek: The Next Generation (1990-1991) and was the voice of the Fallen (2009) in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. Get comfy and read on as we get to know the man behind the roles. Biz X: Welcome to Windsor! Tony Todd (TT): Thank you. First time in Windsor. I’ve heard about it all my life. Right over the bridge . . . I’ve been to Detroit plenty of times. Aren’t you guys’ kissing cousins? Biz X: Oh yeah. Always been that way. TT: Lots of marriages in between the countries. Biz X: For sure, and for us going to a Red Wings game is no harder than going downtown Windsor. It’s faster for us to get to Detroit, than to see a Blue Jays game. TT: That’s crazy! Biz X: It’s an absolute thrill to meet you… TT: Thank you. Biz X: Ever since I was young… TT: We are all younger once! (laughing) Biz X: …one of my favourite episodes of (Star Trek) The Next Generation was when you were Kurn. And I loved that play up that we didn’t know who you were . . . . you were some jerk that was giving Worf a hard time… TT: Why was I a jerk? (laughing) Biz X: Because you were being mean to everybody! (laughing) TT: (Recounting the scene) I come on board to figure things out and talk to my brother. They feed me (bleeping) food that was barely edible. I farted for four days . . . . I farted like an American! Not that Star Fleet was all American, it was many

Tony Todd has played some evil characters in his career, but he is the nicest downto-earth guy you will ever meet, as our writer Jason Kerluck (also pictured) lets our readers know in this exclusive interview. Photo By Rod Denis.

nationalities all represented. It was the future! We are all unified! Biz X: Everyone was holding hands and loving each other. TT: Thank you. Biz X: We saw that back then, that sense of mischief, that smirk, that look like you’re loving putting people in those positions. We saw that unsettling look also in Candyman as well. Where did that look come from? TT: Well, I was an only kid, and every Christmas I’d buy myself a new Monopoly set and I’d play it myself . . . I didn’t need other people. And the people I did invite over were stupid, I mean they were my dear friends, but they couldn’t play the game. They didn’t know when to buy Park Place or anything like that. Biz X: They weren’t in on it . . . TT: They would buy the easy (stuff), like Oriental Avenue and all that to be a slum lord all of their lives. I had other ambitions. I just wanted to be King of the Villains! (Writer’s Note: While I thought Tony had gone on a bit of a tangent, I realized his Monopoly analogy showed his view of the world growing up versus those around him. He wasn’t happy doing what everyone else was doing, he was hungry and wanted more. This wasn’t going to be the last bit of cleverness he had in store for me.) Biz X: You can see that, you see a character that has control over the situation. Now, you’re like geek royalty to so many. You’ve done Transformers, you’ve done The Flash, you’ve done Star Trek, and you’ve done horror stuff. You’ve done so many different things. You’ve done voice acting as well as acting on screen, and you come through so well when you’re voice acting. With all of that, which do you prefer? TT: Well I come from the theatre, that’s my first love. I have my Masters in Theatre. I went to Trinity Repertory Company in Rhode Island . . . I won two Tony Awards. I’ve been on Broadway twice, as well as regional theatre. Biz X: So is this a third thing you’re into? TT: That’s my number one love! I was offered three plays

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recently, one was Richard the Third as Buckingham . . . couldn’t do it. I had an offer to do a play in my hometown of Hartford, Connecticut in the play Sunset Baby, but SOON I’m going to have to go back to the stage. Every time I go onto the stage it feeds me in a way I cannot describe to you. Biz X: I have friends that act on stage, and that sense of being in the moment, that linear story, start to finish, the whole story. TT: It’s working with an ensemble people you’ve spent the last two or three weeks with working to that night . . . it’s like a salad coming to full life! Then after that I’ll get a call to do a TV show or a movie. I’ve been in some good ones . . . Biz X: You’ve been in some amazing ones! TT: But, those that you get are paper thin after you read Richard the Third. Biz X: How do you top that? TT: We had just seen a movie with Richard Dreyfuss and Marsha Mason, The Goodbye Girl, where he plays a Shakespearean actor that moves in. Have you ever seen that movie? Biz X: No I haven’t. TT: OK, well you’ve got to see it. It’s really funny, one of Richard’s early roles — he was already there. He was just having fun, the actor moves in and crashes (not wanting to ruin it for me) . . . da da da . . . you’ll see it! I’m not saying it’s my favourite move EVER. I don’t want people to get it wrong. Double Indemnity would be closer to that . . . Sunset Boulevard. Biz X: So this is a list of movies we need to watch! TT: You’ve never seen Double Indemnity? Biz X: No I haven’t. TT: You should be STRUCK from the Earth! (laughing) Biz X: I’m mortified I haven’t watched it.

TT: I’m sorry! Billy Wilder, you know Billy Wilder, the Director? Some Like it Hot? It was one of his best movies. Frederick MacMurray, talk about nerdom . . . was a template for Superman when Shuster and Siegel wrote it…. very obscure fact! But, in Double Indemnity, him and Barbara Stanwyck are just a force of nature! It’s film noir where a good man all of a sudden meets a wicked woman and all of a sudden are plotting to rob a bank, and then they are doing (stuff) that will get him life or death! Biz X: The fall from grace. The fall from being a straight-laced person to . . . TT: Yeah! They get greedy, he sees that woman and he just goes ca-ca! (laughing) Biz X: So what do you see going on next for you? Anything exciting that you’re doing next? TT: Well Hell Fest, which no one in Canada seems to KNOW ABOUT, which I don’t understand why. (Note: this slasher/horror movie was released September 2018, the same weekend as ComiCon) Biz X: I think I saw one ad for it. TT: Unbelievable. I don’t control those departments. I’m learning more and more that in order to have true success, you have to be on top of every single aspect of it. But, Gale Ann Hurd is the Executive Producer, she’s from the Walking Dead. Gregory Plotkin (Director), he did the editing on Get Out…. Biz X: Oh, I loved that movie! TT: There you go, so we have pedigree. This film, mark my words, will become a staple . . . as good as Final Destination. It’s going to be a fun ride. I don’t need to shamelessly promote it. I’m not a Producer. I don’t get any chuckles. I just love the people. Gale Ann Hurd, this woman is a formidable force in film. From Aliens to Terminator, c’mon! Married to two directors, James Cameron and Brian De Palma….so the stories and secrets that she knows — incredible.

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(Note: the handler gives us the heads up that we have a couple of minutes left). TT: We have to be one our best behaviour for two minutes! Biz X: Otherwise they’ll start playing music and walk us off! TT: (singing) Do do do do doooo! Biz X: So of the roles that you’ve done…you already indicated you love the stage . . . but, of the roles you’ve done on TV, what was your favourite? TT: Star Trek. Deep Space Nine. The Visitor. That’s the closest to theatre that I’ve ever been able to do on TV. Biz X: Star Trek likes to do that. They will put actors in different roles. Look at James Cromwell, he’s been on the show three times as three different characters. You just told me you’ve done two completely different people . . . TT: Actually it’s been three altogether. Biz X: So what was it like to wear the Turtlehead? (The fun name for the prosthetic that actors wear when portraying a Klingon on Star Trek) TT: Turtlehead! I don’t know! What do you think it would feel like to have to have something hanging off your head? Biz X: I think it’d be awful, like something stuck to your head all day. TT: Nah, it’s more like your brain is totally exposed. Biz X: So, you also played Jake’s character as an older person? TT: Yeah, on the list of Fandoms, our episode was #4 of all time . . . of all Star Trek episodes. It’s a matter of opinion, but we don’t fall out of the top 10. So for that alone, and for Mr. (Gene) Roddenberry’s impact on the world . . . I’m absolutely honoured. Biz X: I agree, and I think that Star Trek

has moved too far away from what Gene Roddenberry believed. TT: Are you talking about the new series?

think that good film and good product will always come back around, like a classic rock and roll album.

Biz X: Yeah, that and Star Trek in general. TT: Yeah, you have people that have gone too much to commercialization. But, I

Biz X: People get tired of junk food. TT: Thank you! Eat better! As you can tell, Tony Todd is a man who

PHOTO MEMORIES FROM THE 2018 “WINDSOR COMICON” All people are listed from left.

loves what he does. He loves film, he hungers for the stage, and he is omnipresent on TV. A fan of Tony doesn’t have to look very far to catch his talents. It’s rare to meet someone that’s both a professional and so much fun to talk to. Thank you “Windsor Comicon” for making this interview possible!

On September 29 and 30, 2018 the annual gathering of all things geeky took place at Caesars Windsor in and around the Colosseum. The event was jam-packed with pop culture goodness, as virtually every comic book and game shop in town was present, as well as many VIP celebs and representatives of local charitable organizations. Check out these snapshots from Biz X photographer Rod Denis and then make sure to schedule September 21 & 22, 2019 in your calendar and plan to attend this year’s “Windsor ComiCon”!

5 1. The world’s strongest man to attend “Windsor ComiCon” was Mark Henry, an American Olympic weightlifter, powerlifter, strongman, wrestler and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Class of 2018 Hall of Famer. Biz X was happy to sponsor Henry’s appearance at the 2018 show, but even more excited was Cyrus Chase (left, AKA Sapphire Soldier) who was thrilled to meet this larger than life guest. 2. Chris Chappus, Shawn Cousineau, and Robin

6 Cross, from Windsor’s Rogues Gallery Comics, were so busy, they lost track of who was who! 3. Presenting sponsor Cartoon Kingdom was in the house as well, with a huge booth filled with lots of fantastic merchandise. Working hard were: Stephanie McGinty, Brittany Watts, Nathaniel St. Pierre and Sarah St. Pierre. 4. Tony Todd has played some evil characters in his career, but have any been as evil as Doctor Stevil (AKA Steve Zmijak).

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5. The CG Realm team was also getting their game on at the show, with Ian Garegty-Davies, Joel Holosko, and Dean Godbout manning the booth. 6. Paper Heroes, 2015 Biz X award winner for “The Model For Success Hobby Shop” was once again in attendance with Owner Scott St. Amour and Phil Sawyer keeping the masses’ need for comics and collectible figures satisfied.

Awards Spotlight

“THE 21ST ANNUAL BIZ X AWARDS GALA” AT ST. CLAIR COLLEGE CENTRE FOR THE ARTS, 201 RIVERSIDE DRIVE WEST, WINDSOR NOVEMBER 16, 2018. THEME: “Blackjack 21: A Run Of Good Luck” All people in photos listed from the left. Photos by Rod Denis unless marked.

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2 1. We definitely “got lucky” when we found Diane Spencler-Glover of Designs by Diane who, year after year, brings our theme to life. Rich red/ black table linens, jumbo sized playing cards on stage and in centrepieces, hanging chandeliers, red drapery and more all reinforced “Blackjack 21.” 2. Our “diamond” girls at the registration table were: Jennifer MacPherson, Della Jones-Goulet and Kath Coulter-Sturkenboom. 3. The proud supplier of technical, DJ services and lighting for the gala, was Bigtime Presentations: Damon Boyko, Randy Estabrooks, Mike Healey and Jason Kennedy. Thanks guys for making sure all ran smoothly! 4. As always, the St. Clair College culinary team — Chef Sanjiot Sinha, Chef Carmine Incitti, Chef Mark MacDonald, Chef Shelby Krisko and Chef David Dimoglou — was our “upcard”! 5. Opening Reception sponsor, Motor City Community Credit Union was in attendance and represented by Don and Becky Langlois, Daniel Iannetta and guest, Collin Lesperance. 6. The Small Business Centre, sponsor of the Business & Service section, showed plenty of girl power with: Natasha Marar, Gina Meret-Dybenko, Shannon Dyck and Holly Connelly. 7.“Outstanding New Business Of 2018”: Ani & Fabi, CEOs and Founders Dominik Skrzypek and Hanlu Li. 8.“Dance Studio That’s One Step Ahead”: Dance Barre, Owners/Artistic Directors Blake and Lindsay Angier. 9.“Dependable Day Care”: The Toy Box Early Childhood Education Centre Inc., Executive Director/Owner Anna Raymond. 10. “Recording Studio That Sounds Like A Winner”: SLR Studios, Owner/Producer Martin Bak. 11.“Tried & Tested Expert Emissions Facility”: Doctor J Auto Clinic Jose Cornejo, Customer Service Director with Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones. Photo by Kim Jussila. 12. “Super Roofer”: Diamond Home Improvement, shown are Owners Rod Gillen and his mother Janice Gillen. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9

13 11

13. “Money Masters”: Arquette Insurance & Wealth Management. Owner Adam Arquette (middle) with his family and friends by his side: Bianca Carducci, Patricia Arquette, Tommy Dragowski and Ramaz Ghandour. (PHOTOS CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE) 14. “2018 Powerhouse Professional”:

Lauren Edwards, Owner of 519 East Windsor Pet Valu locations; Moggy’s Mission; Hoof Apparel and Charlotte’s Freedom Farm. 15. “Artist Of The Year”: Debbie Kay, a Mixed Media Artist. 16. “All-Star Coach”: Lisa English, Little Kickers Windsor-Essex County with Publisher Jones. Photo by Kim Jussila. 17. “The Clothing Designer Who

WATCH GALA HIGHLIGHTS ON YOURTV!

Cable 11/HD 700 on the “Plugged In” show in JANUARY 2019 Jan. 14, 21 at 5:30 p.m.; Jan. 15 & 22 at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Jan. 17 & 24 at 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.; Jan. 20 & 27 at 6:30 p.m.

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Always Makes A Fashion Statement”: Charlene Buffitt, Owner of CharElle Designs. 18. Andrea Morosin, Host of Plugged IN on YOURTV, posed with Biz X Emcee Joe McParland, after his interview. 19. This year we added a state-of-theart photo booth made possible by a

THANK YOU TO OUR AWARDS GALA SPONSORS . . .

• Motor City Community Credit Union • The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Centre • St. Clair College Alumni Association • Tecumseh Mall • Community Gaming & Entertainment Group (Breakaway and Paradise Gaming Centres)

(CAPTIONS FOR PHOTOS #14 -19 ARE ON PREVIOUS PAGE)

17 22. “Finest Flower Shop To Pick”:

“magic” mirror equipped with touch-enabled technology and user-friendly animations. Organized through Windsor Weddings, Maria “Mara” Belano and Afreen Hameed from Wünder Booth were on site, ensuring everyone had a chance to experience the photo fun!

20. Representing the Trophy Boys, creators

of the award plaques, were Stacey Hallewick and her guest, Alisha Toole. 21. “The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2018”: Blimeys British Store & Gift Shop, Owners Carl and Rita Hulme.

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Oak Farms Flower Outlet Inc., Owner Gerry Hansen with Publisher Jones. Photo by Kim Jussila. 23. “Dog Trainer Who’s Here To Stay. Stay.”: Jamie Kerester, Paws On The Ranch/ Paws For Love Inc. with Publisher Jones. Photo by Kim Jussila. 24. The entire event is also a fundraiser for Sparky’s Toy Drive with raffle tickets sold for prizes and guests asked to donate to the cause upon arrival. We collected $1,932 in cash, $2,370 in gift cards and well over $1,000 in toys and games! Firefighters helping out at the gala included: Jack Bailey, Chris Tremblay, Sonja Tremblay, Joe Cassar, Rob Kouzoukas, Bob Bailey, Sean Costello and Sparky.

24 25. Collins Clothiers outfitted our men in

shiny red vests, bowties and spiffy black tuxes to fit the colour theme. Shown in this fun shot

25 were: Biz X team members, family, Judges and celebrity presenters: Greg Gynp; Raj Luckhai, Chad Goulet, Justin Fox, LouAnne

Hunt, Jay Marchillo, Joe McParland, Steve Meehan, Rod Denis, Jack Rosenberg, Justin Barker and Jason Kerluck.

Your well-being is our business! PROUD RECIPIENT OF THE AWARD FOR: Home Healthcare Showroom That Sets The Wheels In Motion

Home Healthcare Showroom that sets the WHEELS in motion

Windsor

Tecumseh

(519) 977-7200

(519) 739-0554

250 Tecumseh Rd. E. 13039 Tecumseh Rd. E. STORE HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00-6:00 • Sat: 9:00-3:00 • Sun: Closed

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28 26. “Steady Streaming Service”: SkyVu Solutions, Co-Owner Rachel Jaffri. 27. “Home Healthcare Showroom That Sets The Wheels In Motion”: Maxim Medical Supplies, Owners Samer Hamoda, Operations Manager and Tarek Kaskas, Sales Manager. 28. “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2018!”: Factory House, General Manager Sarah McKeegan and Co-Owner Mona Elkadri. 29. “Show Stopper Theatre Co.”: Windsor Light Music Theatre, representing the group is Jim Walls, Director on the board. 30. “Best Seats For Outdoor Eats”: Sandbar Waterfront Grill, General Manager David

Congratulations to two of our members on winning 2018 Biz X Awards: SkyVu Solutions “Steady Streaming Service” Mamo Burger Bar “Burgers to flip over” View their directory listings at tecumsehbia.com 52

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29 Vanderhoeven with Publisher Jones. Photo by Kim Jussila. 31. “Landscape Supply Outlet Which Leaves No Stone Unturned”: Patrick Daniher Top Soil Ltd.: Owners Randy and Marie Ruggaber are photographed with Lil Daniher and Sophie MacIsaac. 32. “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year”: “Windsor ComiCon” staff members: Dana Stanciu, Jeremy Renaud, Sandra Poirier and Sylvia Ward. 33. “Already Ready Meals Fit For A King”: Macro Foods Inc., Owners Chris James, Sara Ducharme and Dan Lomedico. 34. Pat Pagano and Nino Palazzolo, otherwise known as Pat & Nino, kicked

33 TO OUR SUPPLIERS

Biz X wishes to give a shout out of appreciation to you for making our gala spectacular! (suppliers not shown in photos) . . . Film Camp for Kids & Youth, supported by MANAN Media; Spencler Creative Group; Festival Tent; Pelee Island Winery; Limos By Mr. J’s, Meraki Hair Boutique plus the local businesses who donated raffle prizes!

off the festivities with entertainment the moment the doors opened. 35. “Burgers To Flip Over”: Mamo Burger Bar, Owners Ryan and Tina Odette. Missing from photos: “The Chiropractor Who Has Your Back” recipient, Dr. Jonathan Bekic, Owner of the Lifetime Wellness Center.

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Who will be “lucky” enough to receive a Biz X Award in 2019 when we celebrate year 22! Start your search now for the #1 businesses and people in Windsor Essex region and tell us in July when nominations begin. Get the latest details on our awards program at: BizXmagazine.com.

OF THE MONTH By Dave Hall

The Length & Breadth In Wealth And Estate Solutions With Breadth Consulting Inc.

local wealth-management firm is starting off the New Year with expansion plans and a move to a new and larger office to better serve its growing roster of clients seeking financial advice. Since opening its doors in LaSalle in 2010, Breadth Consulting Inc. has attracted more than 2,000 clients and plans to relocate to an expanded office at 1608 Sylvestre Drive in Tecumseh by early February. “We’ve found that slow and steady growth allows us to offer more options to our clients while at the same time maintaining our high level of client services,” says company President Paul Dufour. “Our clients need to be certain that we are watching out for their financial health and by offering a range of services, we can continue to do that.” Dufour adds that as a new year begins, it’s the perfect time for his agency’s clients and others to assess their various financial accounts to determine if there’s extra money available to deposit into tax-free savings accounts. Or perhaps re-deposit funds, which had been taken out during the previous year. “It’s also an excellent time to shift money into various markets, if they have extra funds available,” Dufour points out. “Taking stock of your financial situation at the beginning of a calendar year is always a good idea.” Breadth’s goals are to enhance and protect clients’ wealth by helping them manage the complexities of their financial affairs and maximizing opportunities for themselves, their families, their businesses and their community, using a comprehensive teambased approach. Breadth specializes in investments, life insurance, disability insurance, critical illness insurance, group benefits and group pensions. With 11 employees — including a roster of five experienced financial planners — Dufour informs Biz X that his firm can offer specialized advice in a variety of wealthplanning sectors.

The team at Breadth Consulting Inc. offers wealth and estate solutions with sophisticated strategies consistent with the unique needs of their 2,000 plus client base. From left are: Ryan Wakeman, CFP, Associate; Paul Dufour, President; Daniel Cabanayan, FSA, Associate and Gerald Finnerty, FSA, Associate. Photo courtesy of Mike Kovaliv.

“We operate on a specialist model, which includes advice and planning in such areas as family investments, group benefits, estate planning and business succession,” states Dufour. Dufour considers Breadth to be a legacy firm in that his advisors are all experienced, but younger than the industry average, and therefore able to service clients through their retirement years. “We’ve achieved a surprising level of success, despite only being in business for nine years,” says Dufour. “We’re also able to provide our clients with outside advice on many specialized subjects, including accounting and legal advice.” As he explains, “We don’t claim to know everything, but we do have access to many experts who can provide advice to our many clients.” When Dufour opened his boutique firm nine years ago, at 2055 Sandwich West Parkway, Unit 300, he started by tearing down everything except the unit’s four walls and built everything back up from scratch. Within 18 months, Breadth had outgrown its original space and expanded into the unit next door. Now, they are preparing for

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a move into a new 5,000 square foot office in Tecumseh. Once the move is complete, the firm will add a group benefits department and also establish a club for high networth individuals in order to provide them with more specialized advice and financial counselling. In addition to wealth-management, Dufour is also proud of his company’s philanthropic philosophy, which has seen it raise funds for such organizations as: Transition to Betterness, W.E. Care For Kids, “Hats On For Healthcare,” Stigma Enigma, Canadian Mental Health Association, Second Chance Ministry, “Grow On Windsor,” LaSalle Minor Hockey Association, Windsor Minor Hockey Association, LaSalle Firefighters Association, Ontario Provincial Police Special Olympics, Windsor Central Little League, and LaSalle Turtle Club. The company also delivers Christmas meals to families in need. Dufour says his commitment to charities and fundraising activities grew out of his own youthful experiences. “Growing up I was helped by some of the agencies, which we now help,” recalls Dufour. “I was able to play baseball and hockey through the help of many people and I want to try and make sure that other people have the same advantages I had growing up.” He continues by stating, “We also strongly believe the best way to market our firm is by supporting the many community partners through philanthropic endeavours. We have not only donated more than $150,000 to various charities and organizations, but we also donate our time as coaches, organizers and board members.” For more information on their philosophy, principles, their team and more visit: BreadthConsulting.com.

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Photo by Mango Studios

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E â&#x20AC;¢ J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9