Biz X magazine January 2023

The Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS (WECAR) has a new President, Mark Lalovich, (pictured) a dedicated Broker with RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. Life After Fifty also has a new Executive Director, Children First is looking for a Volunteer Member of the Board of Directors, Serratore Bistro-Café opened in downtown Windsor, and Welcome Home Kitchen & Bath and Property Hunters Inc. moved to new locations. And oh yeah, Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation Inc. received a donation from Thai Palace! Get the full details on all these tidbits! (Photo courtesy of WECAR)

16 Food For Thought: Harbour House Waterfront Eatery

Always save room for dessert is a motto many live by. When you dine at the Harbour House Waterfront Eatery on Riverside Drive in Windsor, even though you may be full from your choice of soups, hand-helds, pasta, land and sea choices on the menu, we’re sure you will manage to enjoy a sweet treat afterwards, like the carrot cheesecake shown.

(Photo courtesy of the Harbour House Waterfront Eatery)

Of The Month: Minuteman Press MP Windsor West Brian Masse recently presented Lakshmi Bhamidipati, the local franchise owner of the Windsor Minuteman Press, with a Certificate of Appreciation for providing printing services to the community since 1979 and the opening of their new location. Bhamidipati has owned the business since 2017 and in late 2022 moved it to 1276 Ottawa Street. Read all about how she came to live in Canada and run this successful Windsor business. (Photo by Rod Denis)

BIZ—

Left of Craig is a metal, man-made model that shows the size of this young herbivorous sauropod of the late Jurassic period.

AWARDS SPOTLIGHT — Page 36 November 19, 2022 was a big day, for not only Biz X magazine, but also for 2020 and 2021 past award winners and 2022 recipients, as the 25th annual awards gala took place at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. Among the 24 current winners was Funky Chow Kitchen (F&B Hospitality Group), which earned the Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2022 Award. Pictured is Co-Owner

Woods

receiving her award from Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones. Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

EVENTS — Page 42 Celebrations, galas, fundraisers, and all kinds of corporate functions are back in full swing after a two year hiatus due to pandemic restrictions. The 2022 installment of the Advance Business Systems 30th Annual American Thanksgiving Football Classic saw over 500 guests in attendance raising over $22,500 for charity. Enjoying the networking opportunity at the event from left were: Len Meloche, Cintas; Sonja Popovski, St. Clair College; Catherine Murphy, Hold Please Communications and Mar Chapman, who recently retired as a real estate agent with Deerbrook Realty Inc. Photo by Rod Denis. BUSINESS NEWS — Page 44 City of Windsor Mayor Drew

THE PARENTING

Page 18 Cutting costs in the family budget is the focus this issue and what could be more cost effective than FREE! Craig Capacchione, Museum Coordinator, Exhibitions at Museum Windsor, hosts a free Dino Day on January 14 for the travelling display — Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas — on loan from the American Museum of Natural History. Taking place at the Chimczuk Museum, 401 Riverside Drive West in Windsor, the exhibition explores the evolution of current theories about dinosaurs using fossil finds, computer simulations and provocative models. The computer image in the background illustrates the complex and dynamic structure of an Apatosaurus Dinosaur neck.

Photo by Rod Denis.

Rosemary

(left)

You Can’t Touch This: Chair, Rope, Ball, Nor Blanket

Send your funny animal photo with your pet’s name to: deborah@bizxmagazine.com and it may be included here in an upcoming issue. Make sure it gives our readers a laugh!

“Hmm, you’ve been gone all day and now it’s your chair?” Moose questions.

Nanuck is nice and cozy so don’t even think of stealing that blanket!

Charlie wonders why you keep throwing this down the hall? It’s a perfectly good ball!

For Bella, tug of war is serious business.

Yeah Baby, #250!!!

By Deborah Jones

Happy new year everyone! I hope you had a wonderful holiday and were able to spend it with family and friends. I trust you were able to recharge your mental batteries and now are ready to make 2023 your best year yet.

I know I am, as is my dedicated team!

We start this year off with another celebration.

In our November/December 2022 we marked 25 years of Biz X Awards and I thanked my family and freelance team extensively.

For many years, our awards edition has marked a special number of issues, such as in 2017 when the 20th awards tribute was our 200th issue. We were cruising along this same time frame until the pandemic shutdown life as we knew it in March 2020.

As a result our April issue had to be combined with May, but it wasn’t all bad! We only missed this one magazine since we began. Every issue has kept to schedule.

So the issue you are now reading, I am proud to say is our 250th!

It’s been a wild ride since our first issue in February 1998 (see first cover above), but oh, have we grown! We expanded our distribution area, changed our look, created a complex website and added a digital edition.

We are thankful to our readers, clients, suppliers, families and friends who always support everything we do.

Whereas this business is in some ways feels like “my baby” — as each edition involves a ton of labour (LOL!) — there are certain covers that have a special meaning for me.

Our annual award cover photos by Rod Denis are always my top choices, along with the issue my sister Della and my nephew Dylan (two for him!) appeared on.

I leave you now with a small selection of my favourite covers. Who will be chosen for future covers? Don’t miss an issue and find out!

State Of The City . . . A Look Back At 2022

In this space the Rose City Politics panel will analyze, breakdown, and critique a local political issue that affects each and every Windsor resident.

For January 2022, three of the panelists take a look backwards, rather than forward, to provide a retrospective on 2022 before moving ahead to what 2023 will bring.

2022 brought peaks with significant announcements and investments.

For example, the mega hospital construction timeline moving forward, the Windsor Assembly Plant’s retooling and the NextStar Energy EV battery plant announcement, Transit Windsor’s revitalization (sans garage), Ojibway National Urban Park progress, and Adie Knox Community Centre’s redevelopment.

However, there were valleys, like the Ambassador Bridge blockade, two divisive and lowest and second-lowest voter turnout elections respectively, an eyebrow raising tax bill insert, and the former CAO Jason Reynar’s ousting.

There were also noteworthy debates like City Councillors receiving a pay increase and most COVID measures ending (although we are seeing some return . . .).

There was also cultural milestones like the Windsor International Film Festival

breaking its attendance record, Art Windsor Essex’s renaming, and the return of Transit Windsor’s tunnel bus.

With a new term and three new Councillors, 2023 will bring some learning of the ropes before the political jockeying begins.

It will be interesting to see how the council’s composition affects votes and outcomes.

Elected officials should focus attentively on economic diversification because the abovementioned investments add more of the same eggs to our primarily automotive basket, which is dangerous in a down cycle; as well as address public health issues while also continuing to invest in public and sustainable transportation, plus VISION ZERO to allow all residents who pay taxes to use the roads safely, unlike the current conditions.

A new year brings new challenges and the question is how will this city council address them?

Jon Liedtke

Jon Liedtke is a fill-in On-Air Host for AM800 CKLW, Co-Host and Producer of Rose City Politics, a member of the Canadian Association of Journalists and SAG-AFTRA, and plays trumpet in Windsor’s The Nefidovs.

Doug Sartori

Few years have had as much positive economic news for Windsor packed into them as we’ve seen in 2022.

Stellantis announced a return to three shifts at its Windsor Assembly Plant. After 94 years of operation this plant is still an important driver of our local economy, and business owners across the region breathed a collective sigh of relief at the announcement.

Beyond keeping what we have, three levels of government made significant contributions to

attract the NextStar Energy EV battery plant to Windsor, which represents a huge private-sector investment in our city.

On the purely public side, major public works projects will likely be a driver of jobs and economic activity for some time to come, as the conclusion of the Gordie Howe Bridge project in 2024 will be offset by the newly-advanced date of 2026 for the start of construction on the mega hospital.

So far, so good.

Politicians ran — and won — on this record in the local 2022 provincial and municipal elections, and fair enough. In a time of growing economic uncertainty it is good news indeed that Windsor has a solid foundation to build on.

I have some concerns in the midst of all this good news.

First, I’m worried that a sclerotic city administration and politically compromised development corporation will make it harder for us to take advantage of the opportunities presented.

The city procured a reasonably useful, if flawed, roadmap to economic development in the Windsor Works report. Unfortunately, political jockeying and stress caused by implementation of some of the measures recommended in the report seem to have brought about an apparently

improperly-executed firing of Windsor CAO Jason Reynar in the spring.

Resistance to change at the highest levels of City administration and governance will make turning Windsor Works into meaningful impact harder than it should be.

There is no question that Invest WindsorEssex deserves their fair share of credit for their role in landing the NextStar Energy EV battery plant in Windsor, but the organization also spent significant resources in 2022 on political PR campaigns and seems to be more interested in coming up with new slogans for the automotive industry than in exploring opportunities to diversify our economy.

That last bit has me the most concerned.

The automotive industry is a driver of Windsor’s economy. The new investments gave it a boost and it is likely to be a key part of our economic mix for many years to come.

It is hard to see how new automotive investments, however thrilling, are helping to make Windsor’s economy more resilient to the inevitable downturns inherent to a cyclical industry like automotive.

Doug Sartori is a political observer and organizer. When he’s not recording podcasts or getting people out to vote he runs Parallel 42 Systems, a technology consultancy in downtown Windsor.

I hope you all had a fantastic holiday season and are looking forward to a wonderful new year, because after the last few pandemic years, we could all use an easy one.

2022 was busy for the City of Windsor First we had a municipal election ushering in three new Councillors after two left — one to pursue other opportunities, another to take a run for Mayor, and the third defeated in his re-election attempt.

The new council makeup seems a bit more conservative after losing Councillors Rino Bortolin and Chris Holt, and how this plays out we will just have to see.

On the economic development front we’ve had a very exciting announcement with the NextStar Energy EV battery plant. With upwards of 3,000 dedicated jobs as well as smaller feeder plants and related construction jobs, the area should benefit economically for years — which is a good thing since our unemployment rate is above average.

Hopefully we can use this as a starting point for much needed economic redevelopment and diversification. Our biggest mistake would be to treat this as a George Bush “Mission

Accomplished” blunder and not build off the opportunity we’ve been presented with.

If the powers that be only see Windsor and Essex County in a narrow “automotive town” focus, I’m afraid we’ll be trapped in the same economic cycle that exists when focusing solely on one industry.

We also had a provincial announcement that the timeline for the new hospital has been moved up, which is desperately needed.

Our health services infrastructure have been ignored and neglected for far too long.

In a perfect world this would be accelerated even more, but we’ll have to take what we can get.

Housing development projects continue to be announced and have been a huge driver of regional employment for years.

With all these new jobs, I suspect the building boom will continue for the next few years. Locally we have a shortage of housing, so every unit is a plus.

Having said all that, the most important thing is that spring is only about 11 weeks away — I should probably do a sit-up or something to prepare.

Jr.

Don Merrifield Jr. is a REALTOR serving Windsor and Essex County for over 22 years, a Co-Host on Rose City Politics for over 11 years, father and grandfather, and a former professional musician and Ward 3 City Council Candidate.

If you have a comment on this topic, please post it under the Rose City Politics column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com.

Don Merrifield

The Rose City Politics panel includes Doug Sartori, Pat Papadeas, Don Merrifield Jr., and Jon Liedtke and broadcasts Wednesday nights at: RoseCityPolitics.ca. It is available on all your favourite podcasting and social media apps and appears in print in Biz X magazine.

Big Businesses Start Small . . . Third Winner Announced

The next installment of a special contest with Libro Credit Union (Libro.ca), the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC; WeBusinessCentre.com) and Biz X magazine, rewarding new start-ups in the region, has now resulted in the third winner since June 2022.

So how does the process work?

The SBEC staff selected three finalists from 200 clients that had utilized their consulting services from September to November. Libro then picked their top choice to receive a cash prize of $500 plus coaching sessions.

And now the third winner is, drum roll please . . . Ursa Major Learning Services and Center.

Ursa Major Learning Services and Center (1860 Division Road North, in the Kingsville Community Centre; UMLSC.org) provides educational support to individuals with disabilities that promotes independence, empowers the people to create their own sense of personal responsibility, and creates community and social connections.

With a solid background in education, respite care and support work, the three partners — Michael Tome, Mitchell Young and Vanessa Young-Tome — realized there was a need in the community to support adults who were living with disabilities, and launched their business in 2022.

Their day program works with individuals on communication, personal safety, independent living, personal care, daily living skills, work skill set and daily interactions.

According to Shannon Dyck, Small Business Specialist/Coach at Libro Credit Union: “This is a company with strong growth potential and is aligned with Libro Pillars as they are increasing employment opportunities for those with disabilities and giving back to the community with various volunteer opportunities. We are excited to award Ursa Major Learning Services and Center with the Small Biz eXcellence award and look forward to fostering a relationship and supporting their own financial resilience and growth.”

The partners at Ursa Major Learning

Services and Center are very grateful to SBEC, Libro and Biz X that they were selected from an incredible group of many worthy candidates.

“Starting a not-for-profit has been a rewarding, but challenging experience for us, and we could not have made it to this point without amazing community organizations like these,” states Tome. “The coaching sessions with Libro will help us grow our organization and provide more direct support to more people living with disabilities in Essex County. The prize money will go directly into membership programming and activities. Receiving this award means the world to us and the people we support!”

Photographed at the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC) downtown Windsor, for the cheque presentation, from left are: Sabrina DeMarco, SBEC Executive Director, Mitchell Young, Vanessa YoungTome and Michael Tome, Owners of Ursa Major Learning Services; and Michelle Chen, Small Business Specialist/ Coach Libro Credit Union. Photo by Rod Denis.

New Fund Brings LaSalle Community Projects To Life

A fund for residents and businesses in LaSalle, ON has been created to invest in their community and aims to make it the best place to live, work, play and visit, now and in the future.

The LaSalle Community Fund Association (formed in April 2021) held a press conference late last year to celebrate the launch of the LaSalle Community Fund (LCF). Held in affiliation with the WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF; WECF.ca), the fund was created to support projects in LaSalle through community and corporate donations.

“Our aim is to raise funds for LaSalle, by LaSalle, and in LaSalle,” indicates LCF Association President Vince Marcotte. “We are starting small, but we are definitely here for the long haul. Donations can be made for endowment purposes and last forever and we want to make those donations available to all our residents.”

Steve Reaume, LaSalle Community Fund Association Vice President and a retired business owner from the town adds: “It’s

all about LaSalle. We are interested in the betterment of the community.”

LCF’s commitment to community-based projects was a good match for WECF’s history of managing legacy donations and providing grants to local programs.

“They are citizens who want to make their community better,” states Lisa Kolody, Executive Director, WindsorEssex Community Foundation. “That aligns with what we do and we are happy to support them.”

The first project to receive funding will be the entrance garden at the LaSalle Event Centre at 970 Front Road. The beautification will include native plants, shrubs, and trees to welcome visitors.

In 2023, WECF will celebrate 40 years of “Inspiring Philanthropy” and is committing $15,000 per municipality to support Waterfront Legacy Projects. In LaSalle, that means $15,000 to start the garden project, with LCF raising funds to match the donation; the official fundraising campaign begins in early 2023.

Along with the financial boost to their first project, as a new organization, the

WECF affiliation carries many benefits for LCF, including mentorship and support for administration like issuing donation receipts.

Residents of LaSalle (and citizens from other communities), can take the survey, found on the group’s website, to suggest what new projects or suggested improvements will make the town even more appealing.

LCF’s working board then reviews the ideas to determine what will have a lasting impact in the area, whether related to sports, nature, education, entertainment, or anything else citizens can think of.

To complete the LCF survey, donate to the fund, or to learn more about the organization’s goals, visit: LaSalleCommunityFund.ca.

Lisa Kolody, Executive Director, WindsorEssex Community Foundation and Vince Marcotte, President, LaSalle Community Fund Association, announced the official launch of the fund at a press conference held at LA Town Grill, 5-5975 Malden Road on November 28, 2022. Photo courtesy of WECF.

Let’s Get Salty! Unique Halotherapy Experience Opens In Downtown Windsor

Located at #3-515 Riverside Drive West, along the riverfront, since November 2022, LitRosi Day Spa Inc. specializes in body contouring/wrinkle reduction, laser hair removal, photofacial, skin rejuvenation, nail services, eyelash extensions, brow redefinition, waxing services, massage therapy and halotherapy (salt cave).

The new business is situated is located in the previous home of La Fleur Spa.

“I got into the business due to my passion for wellness and balance,” says AK (Ayekay) Jasper, Owner of LitRosi Day Spa Inc. and certified Esthetician and Massage Therapist. “So I decided to bring all of my training and experience under one roof to deliver a true spa experience to Windsorites.”

LitRosi Day Spa Inc. has already become known around town for adding a salt cave, a dimly lit salt-filled room where you sit back and relax with soft music playing in the background.

“The salt cave houses the halogenerator, which circulates the salt particles in the room helping clear your respiratory tract as you inhale and breathe in the salt particles,” explains Jasper. “My experience with the salt cave has been very calming for my nervous system and enhances sleep for me.”

The cave can also help addresses lung infections, throat infections or pharyngitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), smoking-related breathing problems, respiratory allergies, asthma, bronchitis, cough and cold, pneumonia, sinusitis, rhinitis, tonsillitis, and cystic fibrosis, among other things.

Allowing salt-saturated air flow over your body is said to naturally boost your skin’s hydration, reduce stress and enhance meditation. It is known to be mucoactive (clearing up mucus from your airways), antibacterial (helping prevent infections),

immunity-boosting, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic.

“Our salt cave halotherapy in Windsor is a place where patrons spend about 45 minutes to an hour relaxing in a zero-gravity chair, breathing in air that’s been filled with micronized salt particles, basically mimicking the atmosphere and conditions

of authentic European salt mines,” Jasper tells Biz X

Halotherapy costs $45 for 45 minutes, $60 for 60 minutes and $125 for three 45-minute sessions per week.

For more information on the salt cave or the other services they offer visit: LitRosiDaySpa.ca.

The salt cave at LitRosi Day Spa Inc. delivers a dry salt therapy experience, where the air inside the room exposes you to microscopic salt particles.

Photo courtesy of AK Jasper.

Bill 124: Superior Court of Justice Calls Out The Province For Crying Wolf

Op-Ed By Steven Bezaire

“If governments are permitted to infringe on Charter rights in times of relative growth and prosperity, in the absence of any present or imminent fiscal urgency without explaining the need to breach Charter rights or the need to purse inconsistent policies, it would be far too easy for governments to infringe on Charter rights merely by asserting the need for fiscal prudence. While it might be appropriate to infringe on a Charter right when faced with a serious fiscal challenge, it is not appropriate to do so as part of the dayto-day management of government affairs.”

~ Justice Markus Koehnen, Superior Court Justice, November 29, 2022.

“Where free unions and collective bargaining are forbidden, freedom is lost.”

~ Former United States President Ronald Regan

On November 29, 2022, the Superior Court of Justice struck down as unconstitutional the provincial Conservative government’s Bill 124.

Passed in June 2019, this piece of wage restraint legislation’s most objectionable provision limited wage increases for approximately 780,000 workers in the public sector to 1% per year for a three-year moderation period. It came into force for all bargaining units on the expiry of any collective agreement that was in force as of June 5, 2019. As a result, at the time of the Court’s hearing, the Act had already affected some bargaining units, but not yet others whose previous collective agreements had not yet expired.

The 1% cap on compensation was broadly designed and mercilessly unforgiving: “anything paid or provided, directly or indirectly, to or for the benefit of an employee, and includes salary, benefits, perquisites and all forms of non-discretionary and discretionary payments.”

This meant that any increase to employee benefit plans or pension plans would count against the 1% limit: meal allowances, parking, expense allowances for personal protective equipment, vacation time or bereavement leave were all quantified as part of the 1% cap.

As the Court pointed out: “awarding employees one day of bereavement leave that they did not already have comes to 0.385 of

their annual salary. Awarding three days of bereavement leave would exceed the 1% salary cap.”

Of the arguments made by the unions (the Application was brought by the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association, but joined by another nine provincial and federal unions as interveners), the Court rejected the claim that the law infringed their freedom of speech (contained in s.2(c) of the Charter) and equality rights (contained in s.15), but agreed that the Act infringed their collective bargaining rights and right to strike — both of which have been held to be protected within the ambit of the Charter’s s.2(d) right to freedom of association in previous, binding decisions. Those decisions held that s.2(d) is infringed if a government measure “substantially interferes” with collective bargaining, although, as with all infringements, the government could potentially prevail if it could establish, according to the analysis required under s.1, that the infringement was “subject to such reasonable limits prescribed by law as can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.”

After reviewing relevant authorities and the evidence submitted by the applicants, the Court had no trouble determining that the Act profoundly interfered with these rights, and breached the Charter, and then moved to a consideration of the s.1 balancing considerations. The government’s justification arguments — all of which read like contrived and vague notions, such as “to manage the Province’s finances in a responsible manner and to protect the sustainability of public services” — were carefully evaluated and rejected as unspecific hyperbole.

Against those poorly articulated reasons, the unions were able to establish that, at the same time as the Act was imposed, the government was pursuing a course of large tax cuts: it announced proposed cuts of $4.3 billion in 2019, $4.1 billion in 2020, $5.7 billion in 2021, $7 billion in 2023 and $3.8 billion in 2023 and they established that there were a further $9.9 billion of unannounced cuts embedded in government projections. Additionally, the unions pointed out, the government then eliminated $1 billion per year in revenue from vehicle licence plate stickers, and refunded drivers any money

If you have a comment on this column and want Steven to see it, visit the Biz Blog section on: BizXmagazine.com where you can have YOUR SAY on the topic too!

they had paid for those same stickers in the previous two years. Yet, in the face of all of those cuts, the government’s own budget expert estimated the cost savings achieved by the 1% pay cap at only $400 million per year.

The Court was ever mindful of the deference to be accorded to the Legislature and the concern that it could be seen as intruding upon its legislative function. But, after comparing this legislation with historically acceptable wage restraint legislation, it determined that the government’s own budget expert agreed, under oath, that Ontario was not facing a “severe financial crisis” of the type which justified similar measures elsewhere in Canada’s judicial history. After concluding that some economic conditions have been, and could be, sufficiently serious as to justify overriding a Charter right, Justice Koehnen determined that the government had failed to establish that June 2019 was such a time in Ontario, declaring that: “Ontario has not, however, explained why it was necessary to infringe on constitutional rights to impose wage constraint at the same time as it was providing tax cuts or licence plate sticker refunds that were more than 10 times larger than the savings obtained from wage constraints.”

Ultimately, the Superior Court denounced the government’s legislation, and characterized the Act’s passage as an attempt to avoid labour conflict: “Ontario was imposing a statutory limit of 1% on wage increases because it feared that taking that position at the bargaining table would lead employees to exercise their constitutionally protected right to strike. That does not amount to a reasonable limit on the right to collective bargaining that can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.”

The ultimate remedy and what happens next has been reserved for a future hearing.

Steven Bezaire is a local lawyer, humourist, former infant, an accomplished napper, and loves all puppy dogs and babies in the world.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and may or may not represent the views or opinions of those associated with Biz X magazine.

THE RUNDOWN

The owners of Thai Palace, Renu and Charles Anderson and their young daughter Raechel, met with Laura Starling, President and CEO of Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation Inc. in October 2022 to donate $2,000 from a portion of their earnings throughout the month of September. The Andersons have been donating to local organizations to commemorate their restaurant’s anniversary each September and this was their 15th year in doing so (see accompanying photo). Thai Palace is located at 1140 Lauzon Road in Windsor and online at: Thai-Palace.ca. The mission of Noah’s House is to empower and inspire individuals (aged 11 to 25) to break free from the chains of mental illness. The youth centre is located at 2341 Pillette Road in Windsor. For further details refer to: NoahsHouse.ca.

Thomas Wilson is the new Executive Director of Life After Fifty (LAF) as of November 28, 2022. He comes to LAF with over 19 years of life enrichment experience serving seniors in various positions at Extendicare Tecumseh long term care facility. Wilson is passionate about engaging older adults and making community connections. His goal is to continue to enrich the lives of older adults and keep them fit, well and social. LAF’s East Side Centre can be found at 8787 McHugh Street with the West Side Centre situated at 635 McEwan Avenue. For more information go to: LifeAfterFifty.ca.

Children First (105-2565 Ouellette Avenue) in Essex County is looking for a dedicated and passionate individual to

provide leadership abilities as a Volunteer Member of the Board of Directors. This is a great opportunity to work with experienced professionals and share your skills and knowledge with an organization making a difference in the community. Directors guide the organization strategically and provide formal oversight on behalf of the stakeholders. They are accountable for the monitoring and oversight of the organization’s performance goals, ensuring financial accountability and providing feedback and guidance to the Executive Director. This position comes with a time commitment of about three hours/month in the evening for Board Meetings, as well as occasional time devoted to emails and minor follow-up activities

outside meeting times. Children First is an accredited children’s mental health and early intervention agency providing services for families with children up to six years of age who are at risk for or experiencing mental health challenges or developmental concerns. They use a family-centred approach based on the principles of respecting every family’s beliefs, values and culture. (To learn more about their programs, log on to: Children-First.ca). “We endeavour to recruit employees and volunteers who reflect the diversity of the community we serve,” states Lori Kempe, Executive Director. “We strongly encourage qualified applicants from diverse groups to apply. Children First is an equal opportunity employer. We accommodate people with disabilities during our recruitment and hiring processes and with our employees.” Expressions of interest in the form of a letter (with “Board Director” in the subject line) can be directed to Kempe in an email to: lkempe@children-first.ca.

The Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS (WECAR) — representing over 1,450 Members — is now guided by its 2023 Board of Directors and new President, Mark Lalovich, who is a dedicated Broker with RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. (Please see his photo on the Contents page of this issue). As a graduate of the University of Windsor in 1980 with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree, Lalovich joined the real estate industry in 1985, and obtained his Broker’s licence in 1990. Previously a long time co-owner of four Tim Hortons restaurants, locally, he has

Raechel, Charles and Renu Anderson of Thai Palace at the cheque presentation with Laura Starling (middle), President and CEO of Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation Inc. Photo courtesy of Noah’s House.

been a licenced REALTOR with WECAR for over 37 years. He has earned numerous sales awards throughout his career — his team consistently ranks within the Top 50 RE/MAX Commercial Sales both Canadawide and internationally. Lalovich is excited to bring his unique style of leadership and discipline into guiding his peers and fellow directors through the challenges that lie ahead from legislation issues to market transitions, and more. As the second oldest real estate association in Canada, WECAR was founded in 1918. WECAR (WindsorRealEstate.com) thrives to deliver excellent services to its members, including, not only its core service, the MLS System, but also provides continuous cutting edge technologies to provide member support to enhance professional growth with a vision of its members being the first choice for real estate services.

NEW IN BIZ

Serratore Bistro-Café celebrated its grand opening at 98 University Avenue West in downtown Windsor on November 10, 2022. Owner Jason Serratore and his staff of five were joined for the event by Drew Dilkens, City of Windsor Mayor and Renaldo Agostino, Ward 3 City Councillor,

among others. Serratore Bistro-Café offers a rich, authentic Italian bistro experience serving hot and iced drinks, salads, paninis, charcuterie boards, delicious pastries and baked goods. “I’m a Chef by trade,” states Serratore. “But now I’m part of a group to resurrect downtown and give Windsorites a reason to rediscover downtown Windsor.” For more information on the menu view: SerratoreBistroCafe.ca.

ON THE MOVE

Formerly located at 1641 Provincial Road, Welcome Home Kitchen & Bath moved into a 5,000 square foot showroom located at 2560 Central Avenue in Windsor, in the fall of 2022. Welcome Home was founded 11 years ago by Wayne LaBranche and Brian Guiney and specializes in kitchen, bath, full house renovations and cabinet refacing. The spacious new showroom features various lines of custom and semicustom cabinetry, cabinet refacing options, accessories, countertops, and a growing repertoire of tile and flooring options. It is Windsor’s newest plumbing showroom, offering a vast array of quality plumbing fixtures for any type of renovation project. From the interactive displays and a staff with several years of professional experience, they

can manage your project from start to finish. Welcome Home Kitchen & Bath prides itself on quality products, sound design advice and expert installation. Retail customers, as well as contractors and designers, are also welcome to shop their one-stop showroom. Further questions? Find the answers on: WelcomeHomeKitchenAndBath.com.

Property Hunters Inc. is celebrating 15 years in the property management business with their new office space found at 3685 County Road 42 in Windsor. Their services are geared towards commercial, residential and multifamily investors and owners world-wide. The business aims to help owners and investors build generational wealth while optimizing their portfolio and taking care of residents. Previously located at 4686 Tecumseh Road East, the move was made to expand the company as well as to put the company in a well centralized location for the surrounding areas in Windsor Essex, Chatham and Tilbury. “I’m very excited for what the future holds for Property Hunters Inc.,” says Christine Hossack, CEO. “Our team is focused on turning houses into homes and helping to contribute to Windsor and Essex County being a wonderful place to live.” If you are interested in learning more about their services check the website: PropertyHunters.com.

Harbour House

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Waterfront

Eatery

9550 Riverside Drive East, Windsor

By David Clark Photos courtesy of the Harbour House

Anchored right next door to the Lakeview Park Marina — on the site of the former Lilly Kazzilly’s restaurant — a new Riverside eatery proudly opened its doors in March of 2021, in its place.

The Harbour House Waterfront Eatery has a great location, a world class menu and the kind of service fit for a king and queen.

At the helm of it all are Owner/Operators Kash Hasan, Patrick Kim, Dan Janik, Scott Morency and Zach Parent Hasan additionally runs an empire of restaurants across the country, making him fully qualified to steer the Harbour House (HH) to success. His restaurant/food experience includes ARIIUS @ Caesars Casino, Tequila Bobs, The Chelsea Restaurants and now, the newly minted Harbour House.

According to Moe Ansari, Director of Operations at Harbour House: “HH is a Hampton-inspired eatery where many renovations were done to the property, including a big new fireplace for those winter months and a rebuilt patio area, where it is always great to watch the boats and tide come in during warmer days. For those chilly days and nights, the patio is retrofitted with a heated patio enclosure where you can still get those views including Peche Island, regardless of

the season. Couches are strategically placed in this area for your comfort.”

This waterfront eatery provides indoor treasures too, with a long hall and a chandelier on the ceiling. You also have the grand banquet area and the bar strategically placed in the centre that gives you an entire view of the restaurant.

Regarding docking your boat at Lakeview, five boat docks are reserved and designated for 40 and 50 foot boats for Harbour House customers. Lakeview Park Marina recently completed a multi-million-dollar upgrade.

During the summer, you can dock your boat, grab a seat on the patio, raise a cold one, listen to the music and look over a menu with all your favourites on it. It’s the only way to go for those seafaring travellers!

The Seafood Platter for two includes grilled shrimp skewers, perch, two lobster tails and rice.

Additionally, expect more surprises in the summer of 2023, on the patio.

Diving into the menu, one interesting appetizer is a seafood choice that is swimming to your table. The Coconut Shrimp is breaded and deep-fried until golden brown and served with a Thai chili sauce.

Another dish, the Crab Cakes are delicately fried with onion, egg, crab and lobster, served with a lime aioli.

The granddaddy of them all on the Dinner Menu is an amazing entrée, — the 14 oz New York Strip Loin — topped with a creamy mushroom sauce, accompanied by house vegetables and mashed potatoes. A lobster tail, 1/2 lb of snow crab and shrimp skewers can be added on for an additional cost.

Also from the land section, there is a braised short rib with a red-wine demi sauce, chicken pot pie, honey orange duck breast and Chateaubriand.

With lots of seafood choices at HH, you may choose the Seafood Linguini and many other pasta/seafood selections. This delectable dish has Linguini noodles tossed in spicy marinara with shrimp, mussels and scallops.

The Daily Specials, Crab Cakes and the Wings are a best seller from the late-night menu with your choice of sauce.

And let’s not forget about their classic Sunday brunch!

“Sunday brunch day is fantastic at Harbour House where on average we get 200 heads popping by,” Ansari states. “You are treated with a variety of dishes including salmon, chicken, ham, bacon, fruits, desserts and more. Recently Open Table awarded us

© Can Stock Photo/Kurhan

Presenting the Seafood Plate for one with Broiled Canadian lobster tail, a 1/2 lb of snow crab, shrimp skewers, rice and house vegetables.

as a Best Brunch restaurant in Canada (OpenTable.ca/lists/best-brunch-ca-2022). It’s a family friendly mood and great eats for all.”

Locally sourced products are used as much as possible at HH, including the wine selection. Cab Merlot, a deep red wine from Harrow’s Colio Estate Wines, is an instant favourite. For the white wines, the Santa Margarita (Pinot Grigio) pairs well with the food items on the dinner menu.

Giving you those smooth winter vibes, one of the tastiest cocktails they serve is the Old Fashioned, an amazing drink with your choice of 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey.

Of course, there are plenty of beers, ciders, seltzers and speciality drinks to choose from, as well.

Out on the heated and sealed patio, diners can enjoy a 14 oz New York strip loin steak topped with a creamy mushroom sauce, accompanied by house vegetables and mashed potatoes. Add on a 1/2 lb of delicious snow crab if you choose, as well . . . and lots of melted butter!

“Throughout the year we change the menu according to the season, so for sure we are all optimistic about changing it as per the demand, but we always keep our best sellers,” explains Ansari.

Don’t have time to dine-in? No worries, delivery is available on all platforms and they specialize in takeout orders.

They can also cater events like corporate, weddings and birthdays at the restaurant or off site.

“Our full-service team can handle any event at your residence or a private event in our party rooms,” he adds.

Holiday catering is a speciality and some of the menu choices for private events include Ahi Tuna, Chicken Scallopini and Blackened Salmon. They may also appear on the regular menu as well, from time to time.

“Our customer service is over the top and we take great pride in it,” Ansari expresses. “No matter what, we take the utmost care of our customers. The food is always consistent and we have specials every day. There’s always something happening at Harbour House in terms of events, music (themed nights inside as well) and weekly food specials.”

Reservations are not required, but recommended for parties of 10 or more.

To view the hours of operation and their fabulous menu, check their website: HarbourHouseWindsor.com. And to see a few photos guaranteed to make your mouth water, refer to their social media page: Facebook.com/harbourhousewindsor.

Battling Rising Costs Extending Your Budget In 2023

FEATURE STORY By Victoria Rose

It’s 2023 and there have been talks of an upcoming recession, cost of living is going up and consumer spending behaviour is shifting.

For some, it’s time to cut costs in order to pay the bills.

The family budget has been dramatically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Supply chain disruptions, rising oil prices, and increased demand continue to affect our day-to-day spending, so Biz X is starting the new year with some advice on how to manage your expenses from food, entertainment, clothing and more.

FOOD & GROCERIES EAT WELL

& SAVE MONEY

Food prices show no signs of going back to pre-pandemic levels so how can you cut costs on your grocery bill? Try to review flyers and plan your meals ahead of time based on those sales, and make a list (and stick to it!) to avoid impulse buying.

Look online for ideas about cooking freezer meals for one to two weeks in advance, or even a month. For families on the go, purchasing prepared meals can save time and money as well.

Zuleeats (Windsor)

Chef Zule Ankamah, Owner of Zuleeats, suggests buying or utilizing ingredients that you can use for multiple recipes.

“Plan your meal with what’s already in your pantry and fridge,” she suggests. “Use the same ingredients for two or more completely different dishes so nothing gets wasted.”

For busy families, picking up prepared meals not only saves time, but Ankamah believes selecting a variety of pies (or keeping them in the freezer) that she sells, can also satisfy different palettes at the table.

Swing by Zuleeats at 2760 Howard Avenue (Unit 7) to take home delicious meat pies, sausage rolls, Ghanaian dishes, snacks, and sweet treats.

Go to: Zuleeats.ca to find more information about their fresh and frozen offerings, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Auntie Aldoo’s Kitchen (Cottam)

“Buying a prepared meal gives you a chance to slow down and spend more time at home with your family,” says Alexandrea Anber-Lumadue, Owner of Auntie Aldoo’s Kitchen.

Along with saving you time in the kitchen and resisting impulse takeout dinners, Anber-Lumadue points out that shopping at a small business like hers means no long lineups that eat up your valuable time.

As well, her products use local seasonal ingredients so you can support area growers and try new things without driving too far.

“You’re putting money right back into the community,” she expresses.

When it comes to groceries, Anber-

As we welcome in 2023, a new year means a fresh start, however, families may have to pinch their wallets as the cost of living skyrockets and a recession looms large. Saving every little bit helps and The Parenting Biz feature story hopes to give you some cost cutting tips!

Owner/Chef Zule Ankamah of Zuleeats shows off some of the savoury pies available at her store on Howard Avenue in Windsor. The delicious graband-go foods not only save you time during the week, they can also help save money, reducing the need for ordering a delivery meal on impulse. At Zuleeats, customers can choose from fresh or frozen pies, sweet treats, and Ghanaian dishes. There are also vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. Photo by Sanja Tabor.

© Can Stock Photo/tomwang

Lumadue recommends buying seasonally, buying in bulk when possible, and preparing and freezing food in large quantities.

Savoury pot pies, homemade soups and poptarts are always on the menu at Auntie Aldoo’s Kitchen, 123 County Road 34 in Cottam and their products are sold at select local businesses in the region.

Visit: AuntieAldoosKitchen.com to shop ahead, order specialty pies and desserts, and check out seasonal items.

The Farm House Market (Amherstburg)

“Everyone suffers from running out of time, with busy lives and kids activities . . . it’s no surprise that dinner is the last thing on people’s minds,” comments Elisa Quaggiotto, Owner of The Farm House Market. “By stocking up on local, pre-made meals that are nutritious and delicious, families can save money, time, and energy on figuring out dinner every single night.”

You can find a large variety of prepared meals and locally-sourced goods at The Farm House Market, 7601 Middle Side Road in Amherstburg.

The choices include local seafood from The Fish Guys, Oven 360 pizzas, Quinlan Farms meats, Picard’s nuts, and Chalice Spice

To find out what is coming out of the

kitchen alongside lasagna, Italian wedding soup, cabbage rolls, quiche, and other ready-to-go meals, check on their website: TheFarmHouseMarket.ca.

Schwab’s & Primo’s (Windsor)

“The best way to save money is to purchase in bulk,” indicates Brad March, Owner of Schwab’s & Primo’s.

The full service butcher shop and deli sells a large variety of foods including meats and sausages that can be bundled into a freezer order to save money.

March suggests that if your local butcher does not have a freezer package available, talk to them to get some ideas on bundling.

“Come up with the various cuts you use the most and speak with the butcher at your favourite meat shop to see how you can save money,” March states.

He continues by giving more details on his business: “We specialize in fresh beef, pork, chicken and lamb. We are also well known for our authentic Italian sausage and we also carry a wide variety of sausages, and a few grocery items including desserts, cheese bread and salads.”

Schwab’s & Primo’s is located at 1587 Tecumseh Road East.

Freezer orders and weekly specials are listed on their site and all you have to do to see them is click on: SchwabsMeats.com.

CLOTHING PRE-LOVED IS RE-LOVED

If you have a child who is growing faster than you can do their laundry, or a teen who wants to keep up with the latest fashion trends, you may be making frequent trips to the mall −− and that adds up.

Consider thrifted fashion: it’s ecoconscious, budget-friendly, and a big trend last year that certainly will continue in 2023. (In addition to the two shops listed here in this section please also see the home décor section for information on Thrift On Mill, which also carries clothing and footwear).

Plato’s Closet (Windsor)

Newly opened in Windsor in December 2022, Plato’s Closet carries gently used clothing and accessories that are in fashion and up to 70% off retail prices.

“Check in frequently as our inventory is made up of lots of unique items, so it changes daily,” says Scott Doerr, Owner of the Windsor location with his wife Lisa, who also owns a London location of Plato’s Closet and Once Upon A Child. “Watch our social media posts for information about events, sales and in store promotions.”

Plato’s Closet also buys used clothing so you can get cash for things you no longer need or your teens have outgrown. Doerr adds that when you bring clothing in to sell, if you plan on shopping in store the same day, you can save the HST.

“If the offer is $20 for us to buy the clothing that you are selling to us, let us know that you have been shopping and you won’t pay tax on the first $20 of your bill,” he notes as an example. “You would pay tax only on the difference.”

Check out the large selection of clothing (women’s size 00 to 30 and men’s size 26 to 44) Plato’s Closet offers, at

Add prepared meals like this homemade Italian wedding soup (left) and lasagna (right) to your freezer for dinners that are ready to go on the days when you don’t have enough time to cook. The Farm House Market offers a convenient location to shop for fresh produce, dairy, baked goods and specialty items. Photos courtesy of The Farm House Market.

7555 Tecumseh Road East. For hours, directions, and the latest updates, refer to: PlatosCloset.com/locations/windsor-on.

Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop (Windsor)

To save money on new and used clothing, baby gear and toys, parents should consider Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop.

Owner Jessica Ryan says that families can even make a few dollars on items that children have outgrown or did not use.

“You are saving money by buying second hand, but you can also make money by just going through your closet,” Ryan comments.

Sellers get 40% of what an item sells for and since the shop only accepts current items that are high quality, the turnover is high. Part of those sales is thanks to Ryan realizing how consumers wanted to shop. She tried launching a website during the pandemic, but it was time consuming to update and social media was generating a ton of traffic.

Ryan has kept that Facebook option and busy parents are taking advantage of the ability to shop from home or the office during breaks; she sends an invoice for payment and the item is then held for pick up.

“I was a mom working 9 to 5 and I just couldn’t get to the shops,” says Ryan, noting that adjusting to what customers want now accounts for 75% of her sales. “Parents like the convenience of online.”

Her extra tip for buyers is to remember that when they need a present or shower gift, they can make their budget go further at Siblings

THE PARENTING BIZ

as there are many new items in stock as well.

Browse a large selection of new and used items at Siblings, at 1471 Ottawa Street, or to see the latest items go to: Facebook.com/ siblingsconsignment.

The kids always need fun activities to do after school and on the weekends that are close by. Plus staycations are still popular as people explore their own regions to save money on gas and costly hotels. So search for local businesses and organizations that can help you entertain the fam jam!

Museum Windsor has also partnered with the Windsor Public Library to offer a free family day pass to the Chimczuk Museum, which can be found at participating library branches.

For future upcoming free admission dates and events go to their website: MuseumWindsor.ca.

Windsor Public Library

Magazine subscriptions or buying the latest best sellers can get expensive and where do you put them after you read them? Consider visiting your local library where popular magazines and books are on the shelves to be taken out and returned.

ENTERTAINMENT

THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE

Museum Windsor

“Museum Windsor offers several opportunities throughout the year to access museums free of charge,” indicates Craig Capacchione, Museum Coordinator, Exhibitions, at Museum Windsor.

The François Baby House, located at 254 Pitt Street West, offers free admission all year long and the Chimczuk Museum, located at 401 Riverside Drive West, offers 12 free admission days a year.

“Our next free day at the Chimczuk Museum is Saturday, January 14, when we are hosting a Family Dino Day to celebrate our temporary exhibition Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas,” Capacchione points out.

You can also utilize a phone app like Hoopla that connects to your library card so you can read magazines and other media digitally. And you can stream movies, music, and TV shows!

A great feature available to Windsor Public Library cardholders is access to e-resources like LinkedIn Learning, where your library card gets you free access to courses instead of paying a monthly fee.

Local libraries also offer free events for families year-round, so check the events calendar of your nearest library for some winter fun under the branch locations on: WindsorPublicLibrary.com.

Essex County Library

“We’re all looking for ways to save money, especially after the holidays!” comments Manuela Denes, Manager, Community Services at Essex County Library.

Across the county, there are 11 branches to serve the region.

Craig Capacchione, Museum Coordinator, Exhibitions at Museum Windsor stands in a part of the travelling display on loan from the American Museum of Natural History. This family friendly exhibition, held at the Chimczuk Museum, 401 Riverside Drive West in Windsor, explores the evolution of current theories about dinosaurs using fossil finds, computer simulations and provocative models. Photo by Rod Denis.

Plato’s Closet buys and sells gently used clothing and accessories allowing families to make money from things they no longer need and to save money buying the latest trends. Lisa Doerr (left in the racks) and her husband, Scott, recently opened the 500th Plato’s Closet store in North America at 7555 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. Lisa is surrounded by staff members Gabrielle (seated), Robert, Cheyenne and Hope (in the rack on right). Photo by Sanja Tabor.

“With an Essex County Library card you have free access to not only books but, magazines, movies, and TV series,” says Denes. “Come and check out a board game to play with friends and family.

BIZ

We also have story kits, filled with picture books and activities to keep your little ones occupied on a cold winter’s day.”

Beyond media, cardholders can find things like Ontario Provincial Park passes that allow free access to provincial parks. There’s always more than just books at the library!

To find your nearest branch, sign up for one of the library’s many programs (for adults or children), and browse the catalogue, visit their website at: EssexCountyLibrary.ca/ client/en_US/home.

George & Alice’s Place Inc.

Antiques & Collectables (Windsor)

If you want to find something unique for your home, you need to visit George & Alice’s Place for antiques and collectables that cover a wide range of styles and eras.

“Buying second hand will save your pocket book in these trying times,” states Judy Trealout who owns George & Alice’s Place with her husband, Larry. “Second hand/antique furniture is made from real wood, is good quality, and lasts 20 to 30 years longer. You will pay less than new furniture prices and it can be refinished to your style.”

The store buys and sells items, offers consignment, does restorations, and can search for special items as needed.

HOME DÉCOR

SECOND HAND AND THRIFT TREASURES

Start the new year off by getting rid of anything you have not used in a long time. You can sell the items online, donate them, or take them to a reseller.

If you are getting ready to decorate, use free online tools to put your ideas together and then spend some time looking for new-to-you accessories.

“If we don’t have it, we strive to find it for the customers,” Trealout mentions.

Stop in at George and Alice’s large store at 1477 Wyandotte Street East to look through the broad assortment of everchanging inventory, including glassware, records, clocks, radios, décor (like old bottles and signs), and furniture.

They also carry toys, cameras, tools and sports’ collectables.

You can learn more about the business and see a few photos of inside the store on: GeorgeAndAlicesPlace.com.

A child looks through books at Riverside Public Library in Windsor. Get access to the Internet, audio books, movies, games, magazines, special events, and more at your local library branch. Photo by Victoria Rose.

THE PARENTING BIZ

MCC Thrift On Mill (Leamington)

“Perhaps the only thing good about this recession is that more and more people are realizing the benefits of shopping thrift!”

expresses Cindy Epp, General Manager of MCC Thrift on Mill, a non-profit thrift shop that supports local and global relief projects through the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).

Epps adds: “Once home, that thrifted lululemon hoodie or New York Times bestseller novel, looks no different than if you paid five times the price of typical retail.”

The 12,875 sq. ft thrift shop — housed at 58 Mill Street West — offers a wide selection of items for your home including artwork, décor items, furniture, bedding, dishes, cookware and tools. They also stock books, craft and art supplies, toys, sports equipment, footwear and clothing. There’s even a colourof-the-week sale where selected in-store items are 75% off.

In Epp’s opinion: “Thrift is for everyone and can save you a lot of money that can help you pay for other things that cannot be discounted, like mortgages or a utilities bill.”

To learn more about how your shopping can be eco-friendly and make a bigger impact, view their website: MCCThriftOntario.com/leamington.

to their energy use and will enable easy, quick and secure access to their consumption data through smartphone or computer apps, so they can find customized tips to reduce energy use or switch electricity price plans to save money.”

Studies have found that access to energy data, which Green Button along with smart home devices enables, can help consumers achieve energy savings of up to 18 percent.

Ontario becomes the first province in Canada to mandate the standard.

Helga Reidel, President and CEO of ENWIN Utilities adds: “We are introducing a solution that can help over 90,000 customers better track their energy usage, and help them save on utility costs.”

Customers can access this functionality through their account via: My.Enwin.com.

ENERGY BILLS RIGHT ON THE GREEN BUTTON

Saving money on energy bills takes a bit of research and planning, but can save homeowners lots of money over time.

Check your water bill and determine how you can reduce water usage, run the dishwasher or laundry only during select times, use LED light bulbs, buy energyefficient appliances, replace furnace filters regularly, unplug unused items, and look for possible sources of heat loss in the home (like around windows and doors).

ENWIN Utilities (Windsor)

In December 2022, ENWIN Utilities officially launched Green Button, a standard format for billing and consumption data that allows customers to track their energy use through third-party applications.

According to Todd Smith, Minister of Energy for the Government of Ontario: “Families and businesses want to be in the driver’s seat when it comes to their energy bills. Green Button is part of our commitment to give consumers more choice when it comes

LOOK FOR SALES AND DISCOUNTS

GET YOUR COUP-ON

If you have a student or a senior (or even a CAA member) in the family, look for discounts everywhere you shop. Many stores have special days for seniors or offer additional savings when you show a student card, military ID, or membership card.

Don’t forget about those coupons either!

Check the front of the grocery store or shelves for coupons, load up your phone apps with offers, or — if you can wait on a specific purchase — ask the store about upcoming sales and incentives.

And if you are on social media, use Facebook or Instagram to follow Windsor or Ontario couponing accounts to learn about sales near you.

Remember to support local as much as you can as your favourite retailers in Windsor and Essex County feature clearance sales throughout the year. One current example is that you can save up to 40% on fall/winter fashions at Three Lambs Registry & Baby Boutique, 13444 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh, but there are lots more sales to find as well!

SAVINGS FILL UP THE PIGGY BANK

Start with your budget. Are you able to put anything into savings or investments?

Set some time aside to review credit card and bank statements and take a look at your spending habits.

Take time to discuss finances with your children and encourage healthy spending habits.

Financial literacy can start at a young age; start small . . . set up a savings account and as your child receives money, discuss their options for saving and spending.

For your child’s future, talk to your bank, credit union contact or a financial planner, about a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), a special account that helps pay for post-secondary education.

The minimum investment is often quite low and allows families to access other incentives to maximize the fund.

Family Services Windsor-Essex

“My advice would be to set a budget and learn to live off cash and track spending,” says Jody Bridgewater, Voluntary Trusteeship Program Worker at Family Services Windsor Essex, a non-profit, charitable counselling and advocacy centre that offers mental wellness counselling and individual support services including income tax completion.

“Be realistic when setting the budget and each month look at your receipts and bank statements to see where you could have saved more,” Bridgewater suggests.

Questions about the programs offered by Family Services?

Visit the office at 1770 Langlois Avenue in Windsor or check out: FSWE.ca.

John McGivney Children’s Centre proudly serves children and youth throughout Windsor-Essex from birth to 19 years of age, and up to 21 if attending high school.

Occupational Therapy

Seating & Mobility

Social Work & Service Navigation

Specialty Medical Clinics

You do not need a diagnosis, or a physician referral to access our services. Services provided in all languages.

Services are available virtually, in your home, in school, and in our Centre.

2023 FAMILY BUDGET

CUT BACK ON EXPENSES

A new year is a good time to get a fresh start, check your finances, and get creative.

Consider the advice of the business owners and organizational contacts interviewed here to see if there are ways to save money and cut down on your expenses in 2023.

3945 Matchette Road Windsor, ON Regular Operating Hours: Monday — Friday 8:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. 519.252.7281 info@jmccentre.ca

Funded by the Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services

HELPING CHILDREN AND YOUTH REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL SINCE 1978

FUN & GAMES

Heartwarming Gatherings That Won’t Break The Bank

(NC) During the cold winter months, many of us look for ways to keep connected with family and friends.

Here are some ideas for heartwarming gettogethers and tips for how to keep gatherings healthy, including helping to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, like COVID-19, colds and flu.

Throw A Skating Party

Outdoor activities remain a safer way to get together as a group over the winter months.

Visit a local skating rink or create one in your own backyard. Whether you opt for a game of pick-up hockey, practice your figure skating spins, or simply glide your way across the ice, it’s a fun way to spend time together.

Make sure to take regular hot chocolate breaks for maximum enjoyment.

Seek Out Tobogganing Thrills

After a winter snowfall, get a group together, grab your sleds and meet at the best local hill for another great outdoor activity.

Remember to use common-sense safety, such as wearing a helmet, sliding far enough

apart to avoid collisions and looking out for obstacles in your path.

As always, be sure to stay at home and away from others if you’ve got cold or flu-like symptoms. This will help prevent others from getting sick.

Have A Game Night

If you’re not keen on outdoor activities, consider having a few friends or family members over for a game night.

Ask everyone to bring their favourite activity and rotate through them.

Games can be a wonderful way to keep conversations going and learn new things about each other — like who’s most competitive.

If competition isn’t for you, try out cooperative games where players work together to beat the board.

This idea is best for smaller groups of four to eight people. It’s also a good idea to have fewer people as this helps minimize spread and exposure to respiratory viruses.

Open a window or exterior door whenever possible — even if it’s cold outside.

A few minutes of fresh outdoor air can still help improve ventilation and reduce the levels of infectious particles in the air. This is especially important when you’re with people from outside your immediate household.

Still too cold out? That’s okay. You can also run your kitchen or bathroom exhaust fan to help freshen the air.

Host A Movie Watching Evening

If games aren’t really your thing, maybe get your group together for a cozy movie night.

Consider a theme like Spooky Friday for scary movies or, put everyone’s recommendations in a bowl and pull one at random each time. But, as always, pay attention to how you feel before any event and stay home if you have any symptoms, such as runny nose, cough, or fatigue.

If you’re serving popcorn or other snacks, consider giving each guest their own bowl or bag so everyone can have their own stash.

If you’re planning on getting together with a larger crowd, remember that face masks are still a good way to help protect yourself and others in indoor places.

Whichever way you end up spending time with friends and family, staying up to date on your COVID-19 and flu vaccinations is always a good idea to help avoid hospitalization or the serious illnesses associated with these viruses.

Find more info on: Canada.ca/coronavirus.

NEW IN BIZ

Private Practice Counselling Clinic Comes Into Bloom For Children’s Mental Health Services

By Victoria Rose

One of the biggest takeaways during COVID-related lockdowns was how much the pandemic impacted mental health and how hard it was to access timely support.

Along with the general frustration of balancing a new work-home-school reality, many parents also learned their children were not immune to the mental health crisis and support for youth was even more difficult to access.

“According to Children’s Mental Health Ontario (CMHO.org), one in five kids and teens experience a mental health difficulty and the data has shown an increase in these concerns during the pandemic,” notes Stacey Coene, an experienced therapist who recently opened Bloom Child and Youth Counselling to focus exclusively on children’s mental health.

Coene, 41, has a Master of Social Work degree and has been providing counselling therapy to children (and their parents) for 18 years.

During the pandemic, she was working as a mental health lead at a school board and saw the growing need for youth counselling. She explained her vision to colleagues and they were eager for her to create the new practice, and join as affiliates.

“Due to many funding and resource constraints, myself and many other clinicians in the publicly funded system have found ourselves stuck, having to use a reactive, or ‘Band-aid’ approach, in our interventions, rather than proactively helping kids and teens establish good mental health before they go into crisis,” says Coene.

Despite research indicating early intervention is key to preventing major

mental illness in adulthood, Coene points out that waiting lists for mental health services for children in Ontario have more than doubled in the last five years.

“Only those kids who are at risk are being seen in a timely manner, leaving many others waiting for help until they go into crisis,” she states. “I am excited to help fill that gap and create a new place for families in our community to access good quality mental health care without having to drive into Windsor for services.”

The private practice provides psychotherapy for children aged six to 11, and teens 12 to 21, as well as parent consultations.

The focus is on addressing common mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, academic stress, ADHD, friendship troubles, and more.

There’s even Juno, a therapy dog, who

sometimes joins as a comforting ally while exploring emotions.

Sessions are available days, evenings, and weekends and can be virtual or in-person. All services are paid for by the client, and some families utilize extended health benefits to cover the cost.

“More and more, mental health is becoming a parent’s biggest concern,” Coene indicates. “Children are very resilient and parents are doing the best they can. We are just here to give them tools and help them find solutions that work best for their families.”

She wants to continue the conversations about mental health and its long-term impacts, particularly on children. She feels it is also vital for parents to help children normalize therapy as self-care.

“Mental health IS health!” Coene stresses. “Going to therapy should be as normal as going to the dentist. Our vision is a community where all children and youth have the skills to understand and navigate emotions in order to live their best life without stigma.”

Demand for the services her business offers has been high, and in January and the coming months, five affiliate therapists will join the clinic to provide additional psychotherapy for clients. Other plans include adding group therapy and contracting psychologists to provide psychological assessments.

Bloom Child and Youth Counselling is located at 486 Advance Blvd., Unit 120, in the Lakeshore Oasis Town Centre.

To learn more about their services or to book an appointment, visit the website: BloomChildAndYouth.com.

Therapist Stacey Coene recently launched Bloom Child and Youth Counselling after witnessing the growing need for youth counselling. Her Lakeshorebased private practice allows families to access quality mental health services without having to drive into Windsor. Photo by Sanja Tabor.

HEALTH MATTERS Staying Warm And Healthy In The Cold

Supplied By The WECHU

Winter is an exciting time for kids as they can enjoy outdoor activities like sledding, skiing, snowboarding, skating and playing in the snow. However, it’s important to stay warm and protect yourself and loved ones from cold related health risks.

Here are a few winter safety tips . . .

Dress warmly for outdoor activities.

Children should be dressed in layers with a wind-resistant outer layer, a hat, mittens, and scarf. Make sure to cover as much exposed skin as possible. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends that parents put an added layer of clothing on a child to stay warm.

Dress children in warm, waterproof boots that are roomy enough to wiggle their toes.

Remove outer layers of clothing or open the coat if they are sweating, to stay dry.

Check often to see if your child is warm and dry.

Younger children should take regular breaks and come inside for a hot drink.

Remind them to keep moving, especially their hands and feet to maintain body heat.

Keep time outside short in extreme weather.

Do not send children outside to play in extreme snowstorms or extreme wind chill.

Remember to watch for signs of cold-related injuries, such as windburn, frostnip, and frostbite. Fortunately, most coldrelated injuries can be prevented if you are aware of the risks, signs, and symptoms.

Windburn occurs when cold wind removes the top layer of oil from the skin. The skin is red, sore, very dry and itchy. Do not scratch or rub the affected areas and apply a protective skin care product to relieve symptoms.

Frostnip and frostbite occur when skin and other tissues freeze, and as a result, blood and oxygen can no longer circulate. This mainly affects fingers and toes. Skin may appear waxy, grey, and hard to the touch.

If you think your child has frostbite, move to a warm room, reheat their body with blankets and thaw injured skin in water above body temperature.

Severe frostbite can cause permanent damage to body tissue if it’s not treated immediately.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency and occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. There are three stages of hypothermia from mild (shivering, goosebumps) to more severe symptoms (difficulty speaking, thinking and walking).

Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone may have hypothermia. Until help arrives, move them to a warm place, gently remove any wet clothing and wrap them in blankets or dry clothing.

The Health Unit issues cold warnings to inform residents of extreme cold events with the Stay Warm Windsor-Essex program.

To find more information about protecting yourself and your family during extreme cold, please visit: WECHU.org/stay-warm. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), in partnership with other agencies and health care providers, seeks to enable all Windsor and Essex County residents to be as healthy as possible. The Health Unit is located at 1005 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor and online at: WECHU.org.

Making angels in the snow is just one of many fun winter activities children can enjoy. Always make sure your child is bundled up for the cold weather before they head outdoors to play.

© Can Stock

Photo/Choreograph

FROM THE BOOKSHELF

War Is Hell, Even If You’re A Robot . . .

Michael Drakich’s Requiem For A Genocide

On a cold, wintry day, an old football injury flared, as it often does for local writer Michael Drakich.

His left knee was bugging him.

It was this issue that became the inspiration for the novel, Requiem For A Genocide.

“As we grow old, the question of our mortality becomes more prominent in our minds,” says Drakich. “Most of us accept the inevitable future. Some fight it. Some fear it. As humans, we understand that issue.”

He continues by asking: “But what about a sentient robot? How does an impending demise affect them?

Unlike us, they can be repaired. The question becomes not one of eventuality, but maintenance.”

Enter JAK037, simply known to his friends as

Jak, a sentient robot built for one purpose.

Jak is a warbot on an alien world subject to the commands of the Dalreans, as robotic laws demand.

Built for the sole purpose of killing the enemies of Dalrea, he has survived longer than any other and is the last of his generation still in operation. The oldest of his kind, things begin with his opening statement to the novel: “My left knee is bugging me.”

When word comes of a treaty with their nemesis, Carthia, Jak holds out the hope that his final days will be ones without war. It is with disappointment he learns the treaty is so a new front can be opened against a race of settlers from another world. Humans.

In the coming conflict, can Jak and his comrades of aged warbots survive against an enemy with superior technology?

With the aid of a human child, a sevenyear-old girl named Hannah, Jak hopes to end the war and save his people from what he believes is a looming disaster. It’s a race where not only humans but Carthians,

Western History Comes To Life . . . Barclay Of The Mounted By Stephen Gaspar

The year 2023 marks the 150th anniversary of the formation of a Canadian icon, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, which was originally named the North-West Mounted Police.

To help commemorate the auspicious occasion, a book by Windsor author Stephen Gaspar — Barclay of the Mounted — is now available. Previously he has written three Sherlock Holmes books, with some of his detectives including a Templar Knight, a Benedictine monk, and a Roman tribune. However, his latest book is the memoir of a young man who, looking for adventure and glory, joins the newly formed North-West Mounted Police in 1874.

When asked how Barclay of the Mounted developed, Gaspar indicates: “I wanted a Canadian detective, so it seemed natural to make him a Mountie. Barclay actually debuted in The Canadian Adventures of

Sherlock Holmes (2012) and he also made an appearance in my other two Sherlock Holmes’ books.”

Though he is a peacekeeper in late 19-century Western Canada, Barclay seldom uses his gun, but rather in the typical Canadian fashion, he uses wit and reason.

As he states in an early adventure: “I had faced death twice in as many days, and neither time did I feel the need to draw my long-barrelled Deane and Adams revolver.”

Barclay’s story covers 25 years in the Force, and most of the adventures take place in Western Canada.

Dalreans, robotic laws, and his own failing body all conspire to stop him.

This novel has garnered international attention by winning and placing in a number of independent publishing awards, such as in the category of science fiction in the Readers Views Reviewers Choice Awards, it won the Gold Medal, and in the Global Ebook Awards it earned the Silver Medal.

It can be found anywhere books are sold online, such as Amazon, goodreads and Indigo and locally at Storytellers Bookstore, 1473 Ottawa Street, Windsor.

Read more about the author and his previous books on: MichaelDrakich.com.

Stephen Gaspar is a writer of historical detective fiction and has lived in Windsor all his life. Photo courtesy of the author.

The Western Territories of Canada are vast and in his varied duties, Barclay encounters whiskey traders, native tribes, desperadoes, thieves, and murderers.

In service of his country, Barclay meets historical figures from Canada’s past, such as Poundmaker, Sitting Bull, Prime Minister John A. Macdonald, and George Dixon, the boxer.

There are true figures from the Force, as well, like Sam Steele, James Walsh, and James Macleod.

Barclay’s adventures are filled with humour and danger and are reminiscent of the pulp stories of the 1930s.

All of Gaspar’s books can be found on Amazon. Find more information at: StephenGaspar.webstarts.com.

Award-winning local author Michael Drakich presents his eighth science fiction fantasy novel. Photo courtesy of the author.

PROFILING LOCAL WOMEN AT WORK

Courtney Woodward

. . . Perfectly Polished

local business, made up of a team of beauty artists specializing in mobile wedding makeup and hairstyling services, travels across the region to beautify brides and their wedding parties on-location.

Polish Me Pretty opened in 2016 and there are several benefits that set the team apart from others in the industry, according to Owner and Lead Makeup Artist Courtney Woodward

“We do not charge extra for travel within Windsor and Essex County, for additional artists, for strip lashes or the bride’s hair accessories,” notes Woodward, adding she and her team are able to accommodate bridal parties of up to 12 people in a short time frame.

Another major plus in hiring the Polish Me Pretty team for your special occasion is that they provide airbrush foundation for all their makeup services.

“All our makeup artists are trained professionals who use TEMPTU Airbrush Makeup, the only high definition airbrush makeup for professional photography,” describes Woodward. “Airbrush also offers a flawless full-coverage finish with 12-hour sweat and water-resistant wear. Our makeup applications do not require touch-ups throughout the day and are transfer resistant.”

Studio appointments can also be booked at a private home studio in LaSalle.

Woodward mentions they keep very up-to-date with their online presence and use of technology. As a result, appointments can be made with ease and convenience using the Fresha app.

“You can download the app and book us within our studio hours,” she states.

Polish Me Pretty came to life due to Woodward’s interest in the makeup artistry, which led her to pursue her dream and refine her skills through assisting other artists.

“Wedding makeup services were my passion and so I decided to focus on that industry,” she explains. “Over the past few

years I have developed connections with other wedding service providers, which has assisted me in growing my business.”

Her target market is clients who are getting married, attending a special event or even having a photo shoot done, who want to look their best for the camera.

“Many of our clients prefer our services because we focus on enhancing their natural beauty,” she comments. “And our pricing is all inclusive, which makes it easy for clients to book exactly what they need without any hidden costs.”

This relates to another advantage Woodward feels her business has over any competitors — clients can book with just one business and get both their hair and makeup done at the same appointment.

On the personal side, this female entrepreneur who is also a mother, feels that one of the perks about owning a business is being in control of your own schedule.

“Since this business is seasonal and mostly on weekends, it allows me to spend time with my children outside of operating hours,” she comments.

As for her advice for other entrepreneurs, Woodward stresses the importance of investing in education for not only yourself, but the company as well.

“Doing so will allow you to grow your business and ensure that you are able to meet the changing needs of your clients,” she advises.

Learn more about all their services and view a portfolio on the website: PolishMePrettyMua.com.

Story And Photo By Rebecca Wright

At Polish Me Pretty Courtney Woodward leads a team of mobile hair and makeup artists. Photographed at her in-home studio in LaSalle showcasing her makeup products and airbrush kit, she’s “pretty as a picture” for this shot!

Pre-Valentine’s DAY Dancing With Easter Seals “Stars”

By Joe McParland

As Easter Seals Ontario (which began here in Windsor in 1922; refer to the website: EasterSeals.org) concludes its yearlong diamond anniversary, it now looks forward to its next 100 years in building on its vision “to enable all children, youth and young adults with physical disabilities to reach their full potential, make the absolute most of their abilities and live their lives to the fullest.”

The Windsor-Essex chapter of Easter Seals under the direction of Starr Meloche, Community Engagement Officer, is excited to present Dancing With Windsor Easter Seals Stars, on February 10, 2023, at the rustic Water’s Edge Event Centre (2879 Riverside Drive East, Windsor; WatersEdgeEventCentre.ca).

As Meloche points out: “This event has successfully taken place across 16 regions in Ontario for many years and we are so excited to bring Dancing With Easter Seals Stars to Windsor for the first time to conclude our centennial celebrations!”

As to the historic venue — the Water’s Edge Event Centre, it was built in 1907 as a Roman Catholic Church. Through the years it was known as Our Lady of the Lake, Our Lady of the Rosary and Holy Rosary

In 2008 it was decommissioned as a church by the Diocese of London and later bought for $1 by local businessperson, Larry Horwitz, who created a centre where patrons step out of the ordinary into a unique historic space.

From elegant weddings to corporate gatherings, social events to non-profit galas,

it is one of Windsor’s premier event centres.

With the Easter Seals event, the evening will have a 1920s feel to it — the days of Prohibition with its illegal alcohol smuggling, flappers and speak-easies and, of course, the raucous and glamorous “Roaring Twenties.”

Meloche encourages guests “to dress in the attire of 1920s’ fashion if they wish — although this is optional.”

Tickets are $125 each or $1,000 for a corporate table of eight.

They can be purchased on the website: EasterSealsDancing.org/windsor.

Other Ontario Easter Seals chapters also presenting Dancing With Easter Seals Stars, this February, are: Aurora/Newmarket, Barrie, Brampton, Guelph, Hamilton, Niagara, Sudbury, and Waterloo.

They all advertise their ticket prices between $150 to $165 per person.

Meloche says Windsor ticket prices are the lowest in the province “in an effort to make this inaugural Dancing With Windsor Easter Seals Stars a huge success, and to help reward the local community for their ongoing, generous support of Easter Seals each year.”

The Easter Seals dancing event has taken place in other regions for many years and now comes to Windsor for the first time in 2023. Shown is a snapshot of the 2018 Dancing With Barrie Easter Seals Stars. Photo courtesy of Easter Seals Ontario.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. when guests can enjoy a cocktail hour and then are treated to a delicious dinner, wine and an entertaining competitive dance program.

It will be a memorable evening of nostalgia, glamour and entertainment for all in attendance.

Easter Seals Windsor is showing off our incredible local talent by pairing eight professional dancers with eight local “celebrities” — business and community people from YQG as Easter Seals “Stars”.

Three Celebrity Judges decide who the winning duo of the evening will be, along with the People’s Choice vote.

(Note: those not attending can vote for their favourite pair and celebrity dancer with a donation on their website).

There is also a live and silent auction, with the dance floor open to the guests to show off their “moves” after the competition!

At press time, organizers were still contacting Judges, Dance Pros and Stars; however, those confirmed (though subject to change) are Judges: Blake Angier of the Dance Barre (DanceBarre.ca) and Saad Jasim, Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) (Rotary1918.com).

Dance Pros: Shubhu Maru, SV School Of Dance (SVSchoolOfDance.com); Denise Nunes Aversa, Art of Dance (ArtOfDance.ca);

Ansh Kohli (individual professional); Alex Embodiment, Vertika Pole Fitness Studio (VertikaPoleFitness.com) and Anh Nguyen, HNM Dance (Facebook.com/hnmdancecompany).

Stars include: Adam Castle, WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com); Jenn Silvester, Your YQG Realtor, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty (Facebook.com/yqgrealtorjenn); Jordynne Ropat, Plant Joy (PlantJoy.ca); Tina Huynh, Tina Huynh Real Estate (LCplatinumrealty.com/sales-team/agent-24/ tina-huynh) and Sanjay Maru, CTV News Windsor (CTVWindsor.ca).

Finally, representing Biz X magazine for their annual support of Easter Seals in Windsor, I am excited to co-emcee this event with the exceptionally talented and humorous Kameron Seguin, the 2015 Windsor Easter Seals Ambassador

So, here’s the deal (as U.S. President Joe Biden often says) . . . since this inaugural event of Dancing With Windsor Easter Seals Stars takes place four days before Valentine’s Day, what better way to surprise your significant other, friend(s) or employees than with an early gift of dinner, dance, drinks, auctions?

It’s all for a great cause and I hope to see you there!

Motivational Quotes

One of the most beautiful things to do every morning is to join your palms together facing you.

I want you to connect your heart lines.

If you notice, you will see a curve that looks like a smiley face.

You know what that means?

It means smile and stop worrying.

You are going to get through all of life’s challenges . . .

Just like I did.

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

Strategies To Maximize Government Funding And Incentives

By Rajev Pathmanathan And Adrian Visekruna

Whether you are a part of a small, medium or large business, government funding and incentives can be a critical support vehicle for the growth and expansion of your business.

The Canadian funding landscape is vast and complex. However, there are a few key strategies you can utilize when accessing funding programs, to help ensure you maximize the benefits available.

1. Proactively plan your investments and identify your project

activities and expenditures

Government funding and incentives programs in Canada can be retroactive as well as forward-looking.

Retroactive incentive programs require you to identify and claim costs that have already been incurred, so keeping records of your expenses and activities is critical to ensure nothing is left off the table.

Forward-looking funding programs require you to carefully plan out your project, establish budgets and develop timelines well in advance of project initiation.

As most forward-looking funding programs require approval prior to incurring any costs, it is important to gain a strong understanding of upcoming project activities and match them to the relevant funding programs as soon as possible.

2. Review and understand program objectives, eligibility criteria and eligible costs

A strong funding application will clearly demonstrate alignment of your project with the objective of the specific program.

As such, it is imperative to gain a comprehensive understanding of the program and its goals and reflect this in your project narrative.

Recognizing eligible expenditures and any defined limits is also important to ensure you include all potential claimable costs.

Keep in mind that most programs will not grant you additional funding for

unanticipated costs once the application is approved; therefore, developing an accurate budget will be key to accessing the funding you need.

Proactively gathering quotes or using estimates from similar projects undertaken in the past can be helpful tools to accurately predict project costs.

3. Stack programs to maximize government support

A single project may qualify for support through multiple government incentive and funding programs.

As each program has its own set of focus areas and eligible activities, you may be able to “stack” programs to assist with your business growth and expansion.

Viewing your business growth activities through multiple lenses will allow you to identify multiple government funding and incentive programs.

However, it is crucial to carefully review the stacking limitations associated with each program to ensure that it is allowable to do so.

These simple tips can help you pursue programs that match your business needs and maximize the government funding support you can receive.

Government funding spans a diverse landscape and can be offered through multiple channels.

Planning and connecting with the right resources can ensure you take full advantage of the opportunities that are available to you, leaving no dollar behind.

Rajev Pathmanathan is a Senior Manager at KPMG heading the Government Assistance Practice (GAP), which helps clients navigate the funding landscape and secure support for their business growth initiatives. Adrian Visekruna is a Research and Technology Senior Manager at KPMG with over 15 years of experience in tax incentives and government funding programs. For their contact information visit: Home.KPMG/ca/ en/home/about/offices/windsor-1.html.

It’s Easy To Slip Into Comfort And Style With Beddazzle Bedroom & Bathroom Studio

By Dave Halliday

Weall have those friends or relatives whose homes are just a step above everyone else.

This is not to say that their home is better constructed, designed, or larger . . . they just have that little something extra.

So, what is it that makes their living space stand out over yours?

They have a bed, nightstand, and dresser in the bedroom as do you. However, your room looks like the best option in a lowend boarding house! On the other hand, their room oozes elegance, style, and careful attention to detail.

Unfortunately, we are all not blessed with the ability to envision, design, and achieve the type of décor that can impress others and make our living space unique and memorable.

We at Biz X sought out an expert to assist our readers in achieving this objective and found Chris John, Jr. Owner and President of Beddazzle Bedroom & Bathroom Studio (2390 Central Avenue, Windsor; Beddazzle.com) who can share some insight on the matter.

Beddazzle Bedroom & Bathroom Studio has proudly served Windsor and Essex County for 40 years, as the purveyor of the finest items in bedding with Janis O’Neil Scherer at the helm. In the autumn of 2020 she relocated to her home studio, and passed the baton to John before beginning her much deserved retirement. He purchased the business in the summer of 2022 and the new location officially opened in October 2022. Can you give our readers and idea of what you sell? “We offer a wide selection of luxurious bedding and the finest linens,

primarily,” indicates John. “Many of the fabrics are woven in Portugal and Italy, then expertly designed, and sewn in Canada. Our services include fully bespoke bedding options, as well as in-stock, ready to take home and enjoy today selections.” Are there other items? “We feature fabulous throw blankets, a variety of cushions and toss pillows, while also featuring exquisite home décor collections, and affordable gift items,” he states. “We offer a variety of fabulous bath and body soaps and lotions, room fragrance mists, and linen/pillow sprays. Several of our bath and body products are made right here in Canada with others heralding from France.”

Are your professionals able to assist a client in achieving their desired design? “Absolutely, we pride ourselves on the ability to coordinate the look our clients are seeking to complete their beautiful homes,” John replies. “The right bedding can not only bring the entire room together, but it will help to promote the restful sleep we all require.” How important are the small touches and accents in achieving a successful feel and look to a space? “They are the finishing touch that will elevate your space,” he responds. “Small touches and accents can change the whole vibe and ambiance of how your home comes together. Even something

On October 14, 2022 the new owner of Beddazzle Bedroom & Bathroom Studio, Chris John, Jr., with his wife Andrea, celebrated their grand opening at 2390 Central Avenue, Windsor. Established in 1985, the business aims to dazzle their customers with products offering both style and quality for the bedroom and bathroom. Photo by Rod Denis.

as seemingly simple as a room spray or candle can offer a new element to heighten your comfort and overall enjoyment of your home lifestyle.”

How does the quality of the items that you offer compare to the more mainstream offerings? “We work to ensure our product lines are superior to mainstream offerings and seek out the highest quality Canadian made selections,” he says and notes: “Many of our bedding options are made of very high-quality materials such as silk, 100% linen, long-staple Egyptian cotton, bamboo, and feather and down only from manufacturers that are part of the Down Association of Canada and boast the DOWNMARK (registered trademark) tag ensuring the highest quality.”

Do you have any local affiliations? “Yes, we proudly feature Windsor Prints (WindsorPrints.com) canvases along with locally made 100% beeswax Hivemind Candles (HivemindCandles.com), both owned by my brother Steven John,” he points out. “Our showroom and design studio display shelves were expertly crafted by Closet Concepts (owned by brothers Mark and Robert Favaro). These three businesses, along with our web designer, Steve Nicodemo of LiquidWild Inc. (LiquidWildInc.com) are located in the same building as us on Central Avenue. In addition, we also boast a gorgeous bed made for Beddazzle by Michael Difazio Reclaim Artistry (MichaelDifazio.ca).”

Are there advantages to having the client come to your showroom in their search for relaxation? “Absolutely, such as having them visit us in our showroom and physically test out our pillows to be sure it cradles them and supports their body to suit their needs,” mentions John. “Our ability to customize bedding is a major factor in this and we can work with their materials and photos to help them achieve just the right look and feel.”

What would you say are the keys to maintaining a satisfied customer? “Listening, first and foremost is so important — truly hearing what they are looking to achieve and understanding their needs,” he expresses. “Since, at the end of it all, their improved quality of sleep is the truest testament of their satisfaction.”

The rooms within your home no longer resemble the hostels you stayed at while backpacking Europe after college.

Your friends and relatives have commented on the elegance of your décor and even you are aware of the change in the feel of your living spaces.

As you age and mature, your appreciation for the finer things in life can develop as well and satisfaction achieved can be priceless.

Awards Spotlight Awards Spotlight

Theme: Always Look For The Silver Lining In Every Cloud

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

1. Diane Spencler-Glover of Designs by Diane outdid herself in making our silver jubilee theme a reality! From the table linens, hanging panels and the stage to centrepieces and everything in between, the guests were definitely floating on cloud nine, surrounded by total elegance. Videos of clouds in the sky on the screens along with music referencing silver and/or clouds in the lyrics completed the theme. Thank you, Diane!

2. Collins Clothiers was once again the exclusive supplier of tuxedos for Biz X staff, family, Judges, celebrity presenters and their guests. Pictured are: Dan Macdonald, Rod Denis, Mark Lefebvre, Christopher Martel, Jack Eisenberg, Gary Archibald, Chad Goulet, Dylan Jones, Jack Rosenberg, Brett Smallhorn, Dave Halliday, Daniel Rafi, Jeremy Renaud, Justin Barker, Joe McParland (emcee), Jim Murphy and Jason Kerluck.

3. At the start of the official ceremony, Marnie Pouget, Chief of Staff for MP Essex Chris Lewis, presented a special certificate to recognize 25 years of Biz X Awards to Publisher Deborah Jones. Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

4. While the awards ceremony honoured 2022 winners — along with 2021 and 2020 as well — it also was a celebration of 25 years of Biz X Awards. Deborah’s family (Jack Rosenberg, Chad Goulet, Dylan Jones, Colin Jones, Della Jones-Goulet and Kathy Jones) surprised her on stage with flowers and a special speech given by her mum which had all in attendance cheering, “hip, hip, hooray!” Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

5. The Motor City Community Credit Union has sponsored our Opening Reception for over 10 years. However, for the past 80 years, their staff — which includes Matt Senechal, Kailee Noah, Sonia Lenhardt and Anna Morle — have offered quality products and financial services to the local community.

6. As sponsors of the BUSINESS & SERVICE section, the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre is represented by Jay Verspeelt and Renée Morel. Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

7. Reid Williams (Co-Owner and Retail Purchaser) and his wife, Sarah (Retail Sales Manager) of Williams Food Equipment were the sponsors of the HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT section.

8. Our PEOPLE category sponsor, St. Clair Alumni Association, is represented by Ryan Peebles, Lina Brunone, Fernando Brunone and John Fairley Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

9. The staff of Bigtime Presentations: Damon Boyko, Mike Healey, Casey Irvine and Owner Jason Kennedy were the proud supplier of technical services, DJ services and lighting for the awards ceremony.

10. Over $5,000 for Sparky’s Toy Drive was raised through raffle ticket sales, coat check costs and from guests who were asked to donate to the cause on arrival by bringing a toy, gift card or putting a cash donation in the boot. Firefighters helping with collecting toys included: Mike Bryer (District Chief), Cody Long, Chris Tremblay, Sparky, Bob Bailey, Sean Costello (Captain) and Josh Easby.

For a complete list of the 244 nominees and details on the 24 winners in the November/ December 2022 issue, visit: BiZXmagazine.com and view the BACK ISSUES section. You can also see additional photos and videos from the 2022 gala and get more information on our upcoming 2023 awards program.

11. From the hors d’oeuvres to the cloudthemed signature mousse glace, the sky was the limit for the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts culinary team and everyone was beyond impressed! Executive Chef Carmine Incitti holds up the main entrée for dinner, Chicken Breast Wellington (pan seared chicken breast with spinach, wrapped in a puff pastry and baked golden brown, accompanied by mini herbed potatoes, ratatouille and herb velouté).

12. The beautiful Belano sisters, Angelica (Owner of AMVB Makeup Artistry) and Mara, (Owner of KindRides.ca, sponsor of the photo booth).

13. Security services were provided by Vipin Malik and Tony Rush of Johnston Security Solutions.

14. Professional musicians Joshua Yeryk and Kristina Foto of Windsor Weddings entertained gala guests during the Opening Reception. Here they have a little fun in the photo area before going on stage. Photo courtesy of Sergio Mazzotta.

15. Gala guests included sponsors, VIPs, suppliers, other local businesses and organizations celebrating 25 years, and past winners from 2021 and 2020. Since the gala was not able to take place those two years due to pandemic restrictions, we wanted these winners to have their time in the spotlight as well. Shown is the 2021 Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year, Advanced Foot Care Nurse And Wellness Centre Inc., Owner Janis Boudreau and her husband Steve.

16. Among the VIPS in attendance were Rakesh Naidu, President/CEO of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce and his wife, Dr. Padma Naidu.

17. The Physiotherapist With All The Right Moves (2021) is Troy Sajatovich, Riverside Physiotherapy Clinic. He is pictured with his wife Katie and Biz X family members, Kathy, Dylan and Colin Jones.

18. The lady in red at the gala is none other than Sabrina Nazzani, Partner of Capital Assist Valuation Inc., the 2020 Award winner for The Smart Money Is On These Accountants. Catherine Raso, Executive Assistant also attended on the company’s behalf for Managing Partner Federica Nazzani.

And now here come the current award winner shots (photos 19 to 29) . . .

19. Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones presents the 2022 Award for The Therapist Who Really Listens, to Shaun Ouellette, Owner of Sage Therapeutic Consulting. Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

A SHOUT OUT OF APPRECIATION TO OUR SUPPLIERS (not represented in photos) . . . The Trophy Boys; Pelee Island Winery; Andiamo Limousine & Party Buses, Festival Tent & Party Rentals and the Windsor Centre for Film, Digital Media & The Creative Arts in partnership with MANAN Media . . . plus all the local businesses who donated raffle prizes!

BIZ X WISHES TO GIVE

20. The Outstanding New Business Of 2022 recipient is Lymphology Skincare, owned by Maddalena (Maddie) Simone.

21. The 2022 Exceptional Social Enterprise winner is Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation Inc., represented by President and CEO Laura Starling and Public Relations and Sponsorship Manager, Ty Lawrence.

22. Trimble Farms Cattle Company, owned and operated by Adam and Sydney Trimble, earned the A+ Butcher Who “MEATS” Your Expectations, 2022 Biz X Award.

23. The Ohler family proudly accepted the Happiness Brews With This Coffee Roaster, 2022 Biz X Award, in honour of their father Jack who began Colonial Coffee Co. in 1976. Photographed is Jack’s daughter, Laurie Ohler, Vice President of the company.

24. On stage Christina Jung — daughter of Ure’s Country Kitchen & Mini Golf owners, Randy and Laurie Ure — accepts the 2022 Fantastic Family Fun & Games Award from Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones. Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

25. The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2022 Award went to the Wellness Market in Tecumseh, owned by Kaila Seguin.

26. The dedicated, friendly people employed by a business are the reasons why customers come back time after time. This is certainly the case for the Cannabis Dispensary Held In High Esteem recipient, On The Cannabis Side. Pictured are: Richard Dunn, Kevin Hilton, Dylan Jackson, Geri Hilton, Taylor Loewen, Co-Owners Wendy Kelly and Gerard Bernauer, Tina Martire, Catrina Budinski and Adam Damphouse.

27. The 2022 Biz X Award for Spectacular Specs Store recipient is Soulliere Optical, represented by Owner Jeff Soulliere.

28. Norm Ackland Jr, Owner of Norm Ackland Jr Cabinet Refinishing & Painting, is the 2022 winner in the category of Paint Pros That Brush To Perfection. Norm shared the award with his wife Kelly McRobb-Ackland, who was very fashionable in her Biz X coloured blue jacket!

29. Luc Leblanc and Micheal Horvath of Tecumseh Travel earned the 2022 Biz X Award for Travel Agency That’s Definitely Going Places.

“If clouds are blocking the sun, there will always be a silver lining that reminds me to keep on trying.” ~ Matthew Quick, author of The Silver Linings Playbook.

THANK YOU TO OUR AWARDS GALA SPONSORS . . .

Motor City Community Credit Union; Invest WindsorEssex’s Small Business Centre & Entrepreneurship Centre; St. Clair College Alumni Association; iNeedWebDesign.ca and Williams Food Equipment

Advance Business Systems 30th Annual American Thanksgiving Football Classic

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1. From phone systems and communications, servers, software, computers and supplies, to cabling and wiring, security and surveillance cameras, Advance Business Systems has over 35 years of local market experience. They are a large supplier of numerous national brands and an exclusive distributor for Toshiba products, so it was appropriate that Yuki Kamata and Rick Baird of Toshiba Tec Canada were special guests of Jack Jorgensen, President and CEO of Advance Business Systems.

2. The networking/customer appreciation event hosted over 500 guests including Beth and Davis Severs, Acklam Drafting Services, who pose with Sheila and Frank Tessier, Onfreight Logistics.

3. Even though the Detroit Lions lost the big game, Taras and Jennifer Natyshak from The Lodge At Lakeshore wore their jerseys with pride.

4. From HUB International Ontario, Ltd.

5. The team of Made to Shade Window Coverings, Owner Michael Campoli and Sales Manager Steven Caruso, appreciated the opportunity to catch up with past acquaintances and meet new business contacts throughout the afternoon.

6. A tasty buffet of Lions football food fit for a king (nachos, hotdogs, hamburgers and

November 24, 2022 at the Windsor Yacht Club, 9000 Riverside Drive East, Windsor.

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

Danielle Russell and Kristy Barreto were in attendance.

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chicken fingers) was on the menu. It was kind of like an indoor tailgate party, much to the delight of Bill Davies, Dura HVAC Systems and William Passa and David Rompf from Passa Architects.

7. One of these jerseys is not like the others as the Sesame Street song goes LOL! Can you spot the difference in this foursome of Alex Loyola of Abron Equipment; Chris Marentette; “Buffalo Bills” Bill Wellings from Floor Coverings International and Dave Gabrielle of Beachgrove Golf & Country Club?

8. To put on an event like this it always requires a lot of work from many people including sponsors, Advance Business staff, suppliers and the yacht club which was appreciated by all guests including Paul Veldhuis and Adam Veldhuis from Brenner Packers; Robert Trdina, Tim Hortons franchise owner and Dr. Adam Roath of Erie Shores HealthCare.

9. All in all, the event was a tremendous success and the biggest ever raising $22,500 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation Southwestern Ontario. Pictured at a cheque presentation on December 2, 2022 from Advance Business Systems are: Mike Burnett, Lisa McDonald, Jim Scott (President

of Ground Effects Ltd. representing the charity), Jack Jorgensen, Glynnis Wolch and Jason Loewenberg. Photo courtesy of Advance Business Systems.

To see even more photos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com

Grand Opening Reception For The DoubleTree

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1. FHC Hotels & Resorts hosted the celebration for its newest property, the DoubleTree by Hilton Windsor Hotel & Suites, which included property tours and an introduction to team members. PCR Constructors Inc. of Windsor was the general contractor for the project and managed and oversaw the entire $25 million renovation and restoration work for the hotel and new restaurant, the River Room. The site previously was home to the Radisson, which closed many years ago. In the accompanying photo PCR President, Mario Collavino and Principal, Paolo Collavino share the spotlight with hotel owner Shmuel Farhi. FHC also owns the Best Western Plus Waterfront and Holiday Inn Express Waterfront in Windsor.

2. Pauline Slattery, Registered Interior Designer and Nadia Kuhni, Principal Registered Interior Designer, Design Matrix, Inc., of London were the main interior designers of the new 161 room Hilton. The property is managed by Ironwood Hospitality of Burlington.

3. Welcoming their new neighbours were Rosita Blackman Smith, Kandice Beale and Ted Beale from St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, which is located right next door.

4. Jeff Cury, Senior Director Development Hilton Canada and Jason Serratore, Owner of Serratore Bistro-Café (also located in downtown Windsor) share a glass of wine and toast to the future success of the new DoubleTree by Hilton Windsor Hotel & Suites.

5. Dartis Willis, Sr., Owner of the Windsor Express Basketball team and Henok Mulugeta, Coordinator, Sales & Partnerships, toured the property in hope that basketball fans and players from visiting teams may stay in the new hotel once their new season begins January 27, 2023.

By Hilton Windsor Hotel & Suites

November 29, 2022, 333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

Fair Winds & Following Seas, RCNVR Honours 100 Years

By Andrea Grimes

It wasn’t long after the world was recovering from the “war that would be over by Christmas,” that Walter Hose (who began his career as an officer with Britain’s Royal Navy in 1898) transferred to the Canadian Naval Service in 1921.

He took command of the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) first ship, the cruiser HMCS RAINBOW. In 1922, Hose was made Director of the Canadian Naval Service.

In 1923, the Conservative government of Richard Bedford Bennett decided the size of the country’s naval service, as well deciding that its funding would be cut.

As a result of this decision, Rear Admiral Hose created the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR) January 31, 1923, opening 15 reserve divisions in the largest cities throughout the Dominion.

According to an article published in the Windsor Daily Star February 16, 1940, To Recruit Here for Navy, Lieutenant Jordan H. Marshall, Commanding Officer of Windsor’s navy divisional headquarters, announced “Divisional headquarters will be located in the old Toledo Scales building at 2462 Howard Avenue. The building is large enough to meet any demands that may be made on it as the war proceeds.”

The headlines of a Windsor Daily Star article of December 31, 1940 read: “Windsor Makes Large Contribution in Manpower to Canadian Navy. Approximately 200 Essex County youths enlisted through the Windsor division of the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve.”

The article further notes: “To enlist in the

naval reserves, recruits must signify their willingness to go into active service when called. They are called to active service as soon as a draft leaves. Until placed on active service, recruits drill at the station two nights a week. As soon as they are called, they go on full time with pay.”

The central purpose of Canada’s military presence during WW II was to supply trained reservists as required, for service.

Reservists were allowed to continue their civil occupations by day, training at divisional headquarters in the evenings.

“The Naval Reserve contributes to an individual’s fundamental careerbuilding capacities by offering leadership opportunities and team building challenges,” states Richard Hillier, Commanding Officer HMCS HUNTER, Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Armed Forces. “Everything we do in the Navy involves harnessing the collective capabilities of individuals and focusing their efforts toward a common objective. That’s universal to the success of any organization.”

Hose (who is considered the “father” of the RCN) battled relentlessly to retain a small but very professional regular Navy and a vibrant RCNVR.

If it wasn’t for his efforts, Canada’s Navy wouldn’t have had the ability to expand its presence. He retired in 1934 and died June 22, 1965 in Windsor, Ontario at 89 years of age.

Each year, on June 22, the Royal Canadian Navy Association (Admiral Hose Branch) pays tribute to Hose with a memorial service at his gravesite at Heavenly Rest Cemetery

In 2023, Canada will commemorate the Naval Reserve’s centennial by honouring the tradition of maritime service of reservists to Canada.

HMCS HUNTER (Windsor’s naval reserve unit) will mark this prestigious chapter of Canada’s naval history by hosting various community-focused events, which can be found on their social media page: Facebook.com/HMCSNCSMHunter.

“Oceans are the superhighways of global commerce that contribute to Canada’s maritime identity,” comments Peter Berry, Windsor Port Authority Director of Port Operations, Harbour Master. “The Windsor Port Authority (PortWindsor.com) serves as the advocate and catalyst for our marine transportation resources as an engine for economic and social prosperity, and environmental protection and security that provides awareness, opportunity, and removes barriers to success.”

From sea to sea, Canada’s maritime history identifies the strength and diversity of our national heritage by drawing on the past to preserve the future . . . a mari usque ad mare!

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

Pictured are members of the HMCS HUNTER recruitment division headquarters formerly located at 2462 Howard Avenue in Windsor. Photo courtesy of Royal Canadian Navy Association (Admiral Hose Branch), Windsor, Ontario c 1941.

OF THE MONTH

Minuteman Press Windsor . . .

Pressing Forward To Be Your Local Marketing Partner

By Victoria Rose

Some people who enter their 60s begin to think about retiring.

For an energetic entrepreneur like Lakshmi Bhamidipati, retirement hadn’t crossed her mind. In fact, while she was already running a successful business, she decided to take a risk and buy a new company, Minuteman Press.

“I work 12-hour days, but I have lots of energy,” she states. “I also really enjoy the creative field; that goes back to my childhood.”

Born in a small town in southern India, Bhamidipati was always doing artistic things and eventually pursued an Applied Arts course in Advertising and Marketing from Ahmedabad and then finished a Post Graduate certificate in Public Relations. She worked as a designer for two years, then spent 17 years at an ad agency working on campaigns for television ads, jingles and photo shoots. She was doing very well as an Art Director with the agency, but decided it was time to travel.

For Bhamidipati: “Life isn’t about living in one place. At the age of 45, I decided to see the world. Just going on a vacation and seeing places was not the goal, so I decided to emigrate.”

She listed Canada as her first choice for a big move, but the process was a lengthy one (nearly seven years!). Instead, Bhamidipati formed a plan — apply to live in New Zealand and apply to move to Canada from there.

In New Zealand, she landed a job at a printing company and realized that while the job was different from her previous role, she was still utilizing the same skills.

She wanted to learn all about the entire process and spent four years mastering what went into carton/box production.

In 2006, she came to Canada and started working for a company selling promotional products. Again she applied her skills for a similar industry, but this time focused on screen printing and embroidery.

It was a great opportunity to learn, however she knew it was time to start her own business.

A friend made some connections and Bhamidipati launched SAI Graphics in 2014, a creative agency with a focus on design and promotional t-shirts. One of her biggest contracts was creating special medical forms for clinics in the United States.

In 2013, the owner of Minuteman Press hired Bhamidipati on a three-month service contract, to help with their payroll software. She soon began helping in all areas of the

company due to her printing and design experience and wanted to learn even more about this niche business.

That contract turned into a full-time role and when the owner, Nilesh Patel, decided to sell the business, Bhamidipati was given the chance to invest in her second venture. She met with the Senior Vice President of Minuteman Press International to discuss the opportunity and was pleased that they acknowledged her background and skills.

She had also heard about their reputation for supporting their branches so, in 2017, she became the new owner.

Bhamidipati dove right in, but mentions the first two years were very difficult. A lot of walk-in customers and long-standing clients discounted her knowledge of the business and related processes.

She faced some challenges and felt that was reflected in the work she was producing: “You have to have a lot of patience. Customer service is a priority, but I was struggling because this business was new for me.”

So she decided to take a new approach that demonstrated her knowledge and commitment to quality. Along with a focus on production, she leaned on her skilled staff for assistance. The shift of processes and a positive mindset saved her business.

“A top priority is to have the right staff and then treat them well,” Bhamidipati advises. “They will help you eliminate your struggles.”

She offers incentives to staff, appreciates their expertise and pays attention to their personal details, like meeting their families.

In addition to Bhamidipati, there are seven full-time and part-time employees, including graphic designers, administrative staff, a driver

Lakshmi Bhamidipati, the local franchise owner of the Windsor Minuteman Press location would like “more people to know everything that we can do!” Assisting her in reaching this goal, from left in the front row, are: Van Nguyen, Press Operator; Lien Nguyen, Senior Finisher & Binder and Bhamidipati. Back row: Jon Kohut, Print Finisher & Binder; Bill Deans, Delivery Driver; Mandy Dessureault, Print Finisher Helper; Vijay Sharma, Digital Printer & Designer and Eliamo Safar, Designer & Apparel Printer. Photo by Rod Denis.

and a production crew that finishes, binds and packs orders. Some of the employees were even there when Bob Munden established his Minuteman Press store in 1979!

Munden sold the business 10 years ago, but retained ownership of the building. When Bhamidipati took over he let her know that when he retired he would sell the building.

In preparation, she began looking for new locations and in October 2022, Minuteman Press moved to 1276 Ottawa Street.

The large warehouse accommodates popular items like flyers, business cards, and brochures, but also allows for bigger displays of t-shirts and hats, hoodies, and jackets that can be customized in-house. They can also create large format laminated posters and office displays, up to 36 inches wide.

A new business trend keeping her very busy, is converting engineering drawings to digital files, allowing customers, such as construction companies to reduce their storage needs.

“We have a large format scanner that can do up to 42 inches,” says Bhamidipati. “Not many people have the equipment so it has been a popular service.”

She is happy to be busy again after the COVID-19 pandemic meant three months with no business and a 70% decline in sales.

The move has also affected sales, so she’s working on getting the word out about the new location and the benefits that customers get from it.

“I want more people to come to see our new bigger and better place and try us out to know our quality and how fast we deliver!” Bhamidipati expresses.

For more details on her company visit: Minuteman.com/ca/locations/on/windsor.