Biz X magazine July August 2017

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION

More X-periences! “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” And “LiUNA 625 Walkerville Buskerfest” Nominate The Top Businesses & People In The 20th Annual Biz X Awards Ontario’s Fair Hydro Plan Under The Microscope

July/August 2017

$3.50

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Target Building Materials; DJ Wilderness Ranch;

Absolutely Fetching Dog Training; DDM Photo Booth; Kingsville's Chop Shop and all our regular features!

This August X-perience . . .

— e v o L y p p Pu est ” F t e P o o “ Woofa~R Singing Out Loud — ival” “Kingsville Folk Music Fest

Garrett Wang, Star Trek: Voyager

Star Power — “Windsor ComiCon” Billy Dee Williams, Star Wars

Cowboy Junkies B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

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

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

table of contents July/August 2017 volume 20 • issue 7

WWW.BIZXMAGAZINE.COM

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4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Nominations Needed In The 20th Annual Biz X Awards Categories 7 Editorial Viewpoint Columnist Alan Halberstadt assesses the attributes of the privatization of Hydro One and its new rainmaker Mayo Schmidt (left in top photo by Rod Denis with Halberstadt) in the wake of his visit to Windsor, coincidental with the passage of Ontario’s super-charged Fair Hydro Act by Kathleen Wynne’s Liberal government.

8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Biz X Was There 14 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 25 XX Files: Absolutely Fetching Dog Training’s Owner Tracy Calsavara 26 New In Biz: DJ Wilderness Ranch 27 Ask The Experts: My Pet’s Butler 28 Portfolio Corner 29 Generation YKNOT: Building Your Dreams 32 Food For Thought: The Chop Shop Butcher & Smokehouse This new “Texas style BBQ to go” destination in Kingsville has premade meals prepared daily for takeout, hot and ready! Take for example these mouth-watering Applewood Smoked Pork Back Ribs (shown in middle photo courtesy of El Enns Photography). And yes, they do mac n’ cheese too!

34 Hot Shots: 2nd Annual “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” At this Kidney Foundation of Canada Windsor & District Chapter fundraiser, Actress Michelle Mainwaring not only helped emcee the event, but had the crowd in stitches swooning over all the fellas — especially Rhys Trenhaile (photo below by Rod Denis). The TV star from Windsor, along with other local male celebs/business professionals came together for a fun ladies’ night out to help support a great cause.

36 On The Entertainment Scene: DDM Photo Booth Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” &“LiUNA 625 Walkerville Buskerfest” 37 38 Making A Sound Living: The One And Only Herbie Herbert 40 Stories To Make You Smile: Dear Pen Pal 45 Corporate Spotlight: The Importance Of Vision 46 From The Bookshelf 49 The Way It Was 50 Biz Of The Month: Target Building Materials 50th Anniversary

ON THE COVER — “This August X-perience . . .” — 18, 30 & 42

18 – PUPPY LOVE: There’s a special bond people share with their furry family members and it’s something to be celebrated at the “5th Annual Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” August 12 & 13 in Amherstburg. (ON COVER): Churchill and Kensington, Bernese Mountain Dog puppies owned by Suzanne Marsh, Castle Lane sponsor of the Children’s Zone at the “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest.” Photo courtesy of Suzanne Marsh.

30 – SINGING OUT LOUD: Thirty performers on five stages will have you crooning away at the “4th Annual Kingsville Folk Music Festival,” August 11 to 13.

(ON COVER): Cowboy Junkies, the headliners for the Saturday night of the festival are a Canadian alternative country/blues/folk rock band made up of Margo, Michael and Peter Timmins with Alan Anton. Photo courtesy of the artist.

42 – STAR POWER: You’ll see plenty of big celebs and super heroes in costumes at “Windsor ComiCon” August 12 & 13. (ON COVER): Garrett Wang, (Ensign Harry Kim on Star Trek: Voyager), brought to you by Biz X magazine and Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian in Star Wars). Photos courtesy of “Windsor ComiCon.”

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

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from the publisher

Get Your Nominations In The 20th Annual Biz X Awards

By Deborah Jones

NOMINATE YOUR FAVOURITE

BUSINESSES AND

PEOPLE

UNTIL NOON

SEPT. 12, 2017 @ BIZXMAGAZINE.COM

VOTING TAKES PLACE 9 a.m. SEPT. 13 TO 5 p.m. SEPT. 27, 2017 2017 — a big year for anniversaries. Pointing out the obvious, it is the 150th anniversary of Ontario and Canada and locally, Windsor’s 125th birthday, the 50th anniversary of St. Clair College and many area businesses we’ve profiled on our pages celebrate huge milestones this year too. And if you’ve been paying attention, you know it’s also the 20th year of publishing for Biz X magazine — which means, 20 years of Biz X Awards!

Now, our biggest awards year yet is here . . . it all begins with the release of the Biz X Award categories in our summer edition (the magazine you are reading now!).

Last year we revamped parts of our process to take advantage of new technology on our website, which added plenty of social media interaction. In fact, it was so successful, that we are keeping the same format for 2017.

Here again is a quick rundown on how the awards process works. Once the categories are released, nominations are accepted on our website, BizXmagazine.com.

Our readers nominate the businesses and people in Windsor Essex they believe are the best in each category and deserve to be recognized. If you own a business, ask customers to nominate you ASAP! Nominations are accepted from mid-July until September 12th at noon. Whenever possible please include some supporting evidence for your nominee, on our online form. *If you choose the wrong category, we reserve the right to move to the appropriate category so your nomination counts.

Nominees are made public on the Biz X website when voting begins at 9 a.m. on September 13 and continues through to September 27 at 5 p.m.

During the voting period you can go online to BizXmagazine.com and cast your vote for your choice to win the 2017 Biz X Award in its respective category. You can also vote using your smart phone or tablet via our mobile friendly voting site.

Keep in mind the nomination and voting process is not a popularity contest — it only takes ONE nomination to be included in the voting poll. It is always best though to get a few people to nominate you or your business to ensure you are nominated and can participate.

Once you nominate an individual or a business you will receive a confirmation email showing it was properly submitted. If you do not receive this email (check your spam folder too), please check all sections were filled out, you have done the captcha form and re-submit.

If you or your business is fortunate to be nominated, you will be contacted to supply further details on your qualifications, history, and to

confirm information supplied by nominators. Once the polls open in September, don’t be shy to toot your own horn. Do whatever you can to get your customers to vote for you on the Biz X website — use social media and your own website to get those votes coming in!

Remember that vote tallies are only a portion of the overall selection process. All nomination forms received, along with company background information supplied, and voting poll results are then reviewed by the Biz X panel of Judges after the polls close.

The next step involves the Judges meeting in the fall to determine the final winners. The Judges will not know the final winner as voting during this meeting is done by secret ballot. The final results are posted in the November/December edition of Biz X magazine, released mid-November.

In the past 20 years, Biz X has awarded over 655 recipients in all kinds of industries, so don’t be discouraged if a certain category is not here as it may have been previously awarded (check our website to see a past winners’ list). Now that we’ve entered our 20th year, certain categories from years back will be reused to allow for new businesses in those industries to participate.

For 2017, you’ll see our six staple categories awarded each year: “Outstanding New Business,” “Powerhouse Professional,” “Artist of the Year,” “Best Little Retail Shop,” “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot” and “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year.”

Below are the four major sections containing the 24 various categories. While the majority of nominations and votes come from Essex County residents, US citizens and those living outside Essex County can vote in any category, since they could be patrons of the business.

Please follow the rules below to ensure that your nomination counts . . .

1. Only nominate ONE company/person per award category. Businesses/people are only permitted to win one award each year. All nominees must be over 19 years of age.

2. Be certain the company or individual you are nominating fits with the category’s criteria.

3. The business/person you nominate must be located (or reside) in Windsor or Essex County and NOT be part of a national franchise/chain (except for categories in the PEOPLE section) or nonprofit organization. The PEOPLE section is being judged on the individual and not the company itself and those working for chains/franchises and nonprofits are eligible to win only in this section and category #22 for events.

4. Every business in Essex County (with the B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

exceptions above) has the opportunity to win a Biz X Award. *Please note: NO MEDIA can participate.

The Biz X Awards are open to ALL businesses in the region (except for those noted above). You do not have to be an advertiser with the magazine to be nominated or to win. Judges do not know who is an advertiser (past or present) to ensure there are no biases or conflicts of interest.

Good luck to all area businesses and if you are lucky enough to win . . . you and your guests receive a complimentary invitation to the 20th annual “Biz X Awards Gala” (held November 17 at St. Clair College Centre For The Arts with decor by Designs by Diane and Joe McParland as MC); a plaque from The Trophy Boys in Windsor; a write-up in our Nov/Dec awards issue and are declared #1 in your category.

Be sure to check your email account in August or early September to see if we contact you about an award nomination! Visit: BizXmagazine.com for the very latest information and watch for the September issue to learn how to vote in the 20th annual Biz X Awards!

And now we present the . . .

2017 BIZ X AWARD CATEGORIES

*Brackets following award category outline the type of business we are looking for, but also mention those that can’t be included. Please see all rules noted in the second column before nominating.

BUSINESS & SERVICE

(*no chains/non profits allowed) 1. “Outstanding New Business of 2017” (businesses that opened from September 1, 2016 to September 1, 2017) *No restaurants/food trucks or bars as they can participate in the Hospitality & Entertainment categories.

2. “Remarkable Realtors Holding The Key To Success” (it’s a hot market out there so if you need to sell/ buy a home or even a commercial property, which real estate firms are there for you? Consider: experience of team, marketing possibilities, supports the community etc.) *Must be the entire agency nominated, not a specific agent.

3. “Elite Local Employment Agency” (who to call when you require one perfect employee or 100! Criteria: specific industry expertise, access to qualified candidates, in-depth screening processes, good follow-up after hire) 4. “The Drywall Biz Who’s Name Is Written All Over It” (drywall companies offering quality work completed by skilled employees for either residential, commercial or institutional projects)

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NOMINATIONS OPEN UNTIL NOON ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2017 @ BIZXMAGAZINE.COM 5. “It’s Always A Good Hair Day At This Salon” (for all your hair care needs from colour to cut — basically everything to let your hair down) *Must have a team of stylists as this focuses on a group and not just one Stylist.

6. “Terrific Trucking Co. Which Goes The Distance” (when you need large products shipped far away, here is who to contact! Consider experience, reputation, on time delivery of goods, reasonable rates) 7. “Fastest & Most Reliable Courier” (offering the best service for those small packages or letters and is quick to handle last minute pickups) *Note large trucking firms who also are couriers can only be in #6 as #7 is reserved for small businesses.

PEOPLE

8. “2017 Powerhouse Professional” (a local business owner or top manager who has what it takes to keep the company/organization they own or work for profitable in today’s tough times) 9. “Artist Of The Year” (singer, painter, musician, sculptors, bands, actors only) *No authors, photographers or corporate entertainment businesses.

10. “Dazzling Dentist” (a caring dentist who keeps those pearly whites healthy and is trustworthy with good hours for all schedules and emergencies) 11. “Marvellous Manicurist” (he/she is sociable, practices good hygiene and has perfected the latest nail design trends)

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12. “Tip Top Server” (an attentive waiter/ waitress or bartender who is always pleasant, knows the menu items well and offers service with a smile to earn the big tip) 13. “Most Loved Boss” (if your boss is a true leader who empowers you and other employees to do their best and genuinely cares for you, let us know; nominees from any sized business or industry)

RETAIL

(*no chains/non profits allowed) 14. “The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2017” (open to all retailers with good prices, fantastic customer service and selection) *They must have a storefront, no on-line businesses please.

15. “A Massage Made In Heaven” (the spa/clinic for the ultimate relaxing massage or to ease neck/ back pain; look for experience, training (RMT), effective communication skills) 16. “Smokin’ Hot Vape Shop” (as an alternative to cigarette smoking where to buy e-cigs and vaporizers; consider selection of vape juices, supplies in stock, and that employees are knowledgeable about the products) 17. “Finest Place for Business Attire” (where men can buy top quality suits, dress pants or shirts to make a memorable fashion statement at important business meetings or galas) 18. “Coolest Kids Clothes” (a children’s shop with a large selection, numerous sizes, fair prices, friendly staff) 19. “The Dealership Which Puts The Pedal

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

To The Metal” (the best place to go to purchase a new or used car)

HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT

(*no chains/non profits allowed; except #22) 20. “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2017!” (can be a new or an existing restaurant that offers exceptional cuisine, fair prices and has a unique, trendy atmosphere) *No food trucks or diners please as they are reserved for #21.

21. “Good Ole Home Cooking”(cafe, restaurant, diner or food truck etc. that serves up a meal just like mom!) *For this category and #20, you can only include your choice in one category, not both.

22. “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year” (annual runs, golf tournaments, motorcycle rides etc., which take place for a limited time; if they fundraise for a charity, brownie points are given!) *Non profits and charities can participate as a special exception, however festivals and trade shows cannot.

23. “The Great Escape Room” (whether for a team building exercise or an outing with friends, this escape room company unlocks the door to adventure.)

24. “The Tourist Centre Of Attraction” (businesses to visit, which tourists and residents can enjoy like a winery, attending a themed tour, trampoline park, campground, golf course etc) *OLG establishments, municipality owned and events cannot participate, privately owned companies only please.

editorial viewpoint

Hydro One’s $4.5 Million Man Stickhandles House Of Cards

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

M

ayo Schmidt assumed the mantle of an oracle when he came to Windsor at the end of May to sell the move by the desperate Kathleen Wynne government to privatize Hydro One, the oft-maligned colossus that distributes electricity to 1.3 million customers across Ontario.

Wikipedia defines an oracle as a person who provides wise and insightful counsel or prophetic recognition of the future, inspired by the gods.

Only time will tell if the Kansas-born graduate of prestigious business school Washburn University, possesses the supernatural powers to pull off what he describes as the “intense transformation” of Hydro One and restore its tattered image.

The previous regime issued faulty billings to more than 100,000 customers.

“We have embarked on a new era,” Schmidt, the President and CEO of Hydro One, told a luncheon meeting of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Each and every day, we are determined to prove that we are putting customers first, taking another step toward becoming the leading utility in North America . . . we are focused on moving this company from good to great.”

Lofty words from the 58 year old who took over the company just 19 months ago, sporting an impressive resume, including credit for turning the former Saskatchewan Wheat Pool (later called Viterra Inc.) into a global agribusiness powerhouse during his 12 year tenure as CEO of the grain handler.

While there (2000-2012), the former NCAA running back lived up to his reputation as a hard ass, cutting thousands of jobs, fending off creditors, diminishing debt, scooping up smaller firms and diversifying assets.

Premier Wynne, whose popularity ratings are lower than “The Grinch,” brought Schmidt in to stickhandle the final batch of the public offering of Hydro One. Windsor’s Sandra Pupatello was shuffled aside as Chair of the Hydro One board when the company was privatized.

The day after Schmidt spoke in Windsor, the Fair Hydro Act was rammed through the legislature when the reigning Liberals cut off debate. The Act is purported to lower electricity bills by 25 percent on average for all residential customers and as many as half a million small businesses and farms.

“On behalf of our customers, we advocated to government for rate relief and a Fair Hydro Plan,” Schmidt told his Windsor audience.

Mayo Schmidt; “from good to great.” Photo by Rod Denis.

Hydro One says its 1.3 million local distribution customers will see $600 a year in savings under the plan, effective July 1.

“Since being privatized, we have cut costs by tens of millions of dollars,” Schmidt continued.

“And that is just the beginning. We are reducing our information technology costs. We are rethinking how we negotiate and set contracts with third-party suppliers. We are improving our paperless billing solution, making it easier to use so more customers will make the move to electronic billing. We are examining everything we do with an eye to improving financial efficiency.”

Contrary to a belief that privatization will drive hydro prices higher, Schmidt suggested it would make Hydro One more accountable to the customers who are now the shareholders, in particular the province, which owns 49 percent.

“We need to be as efficient and cost-effective as possible at all times. Our regulators and shareholders expect it. And our customers demand it.”

He reminded the local media in a postspeech scrum that the province has harvested $9 billion from the 51 percent sell off to bankroll greatly needed non-hydro infrastructure upgrades.

The opposition parties at Queen’s Park aren’t buying what Wynne and Schmidt are selling.

They both opposed the Fair Hydro Act. Percy Hatfield, NDP MPP for Windsor -Tecumseh, has dubbed Schmidt “the $4.5 million man,” reflective of his much criticized Hydro One salary. He points out the 25 percent hydro bill reduction that kicks in this summer is in fact 17 percent, since the government previously rebated the eight percent HST from hydro bills.

The 17 percent drop is dwarfed by the amount the Liberals have raised hydro prices, doubling them over the last decade, only to magically reduce them with an election looming.

“It’s like taking out a mortgage on your B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

home that you are never going to pay off,” says Hatfield, drawing attention to calculations by the Ontario Financial Accountability Office.

The independent watchdog estimates the Fair Hydro Plan, consisting of the HST rebate, electricity cost refinancing, and changes to electricity relief programs for low-income consumers, will cost the province $45 billion over 29 years while providing overall savings to eligible ratepayers of $24 billion. This back-end loading of debt results in a net cost to Ontarians of $21 billion.

Electricity bills are projected to decrease by 25 percent in 2017, followed by four years of growth at the rate of inflation. Starting in 2021, when Wynne is almost certain to be long gone, bills are projected to increase by an average of 6.8% annually until the end of 2027.

Two weeks after Schmidt’s visit, the Ontario Energy Board held a community meeting in Leamington to receive feedback on a Hydro One application to hike distribution rates by 20 percent over five years, starting in 2018.

NDP leader Andrea Horwath called on Wynne, in a futile open letter, to freeze delivery rates and stop allowing privatized Hydro One to “sneak in” further price hikes.

Hydro One is the Local Distribution Company (LDC) for 1.3 million of 4.9 million provincial hydro customers, including Leamington, while acting as the transmitter of power on its wires to LDCs like Windsor’s EnWin Utilities and Essex County’s E.L.K. Energy.

Coincidently, these two are also applying for rate increases. EnWin CEO Helga Reidel has said her company will determine the size of its rate increase application this fall. EnWin accounts for 20 percent of your overall monthly hydro bill.

At the end of the media scrum I asked Schmidt to comment on his salary controversy.

He answered without missing a beat: “The compensation is based on comparators of other public companies with the same scale and complexity. Eighty percent of the salaries are based on performance. The board sets high objectives. If the leadership team meets those they earn the compensation. If not they can go to zero.”

Critics like Hatfield counter the comparator argument by noting the salaries of the CEOs of public hydro companies. Éric Martel, the CE0 of Hydro Quebec, which has 4.2 million customers, earned $630,000 including incentives, in 2016. The man Schmidt succeeded, Carmine Marcello, received $1.2 million in 2014.

I found Schmidt to be unfailingly cordial and convincing, but his rat-a-tat recital of facts, figures and buzzwords left me with an uneasy image of Kevin Spacey, the conniving U.S. congressman in television’s House of Cards.

Playing Frank Underwood, Spacey periodically turns to the camera and shares his private thoughts, often ridiculing the buffoonery of lesser mortals.

Comparing Schmidt to Spacey’s character is a stretch. But, we can only hope that Premier Wynne’s Fair Hydro Plan doesn’t one day collapse like a House of Cards.

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FRONTLINES Seeing Yellow? Penske Truck Leasing Opens In Windsor Representing Penske companies from Southwestern Ontario, at the June celebration, were employees from Windsor, London, Chatham, Cambridge, Hamilton, Burlington and the GTA. Penske photos by Rod Denis.

Penske Truck Leasing is building on its presence in Canada with the opening of a new location in Windsor, in early June 2017.

“Growth in the Ontario market as a whole is on the agenda and Windsor was the obvious next step based on the market and the transportation hub it’s becoming,” states Keyr O’Hara, Penske Truck Leasing District Manager. (PenskeTruckRental.com) “It’s also a move to support our existing customer base in the region.”

The company may be known for its big yellow trucks, but it’s much more than that. Their customized transportation and supply chain solutions help move lives and businesses forward.

From left: O’Boyle; McLaughlin; O’Hara and Brian Killingsworth, Assistant District Manager, were excited and proud of their new location, which, according to O’Boyle, “provides customers easy access to the E.C. Row Expressway, Huron Church Road and is less than five minutes to the Ambassador Bridge.”

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Offering full-service truck leasing, consumer and commercial truck rental and contract truck fleet maintenance services, the new operation is located at 4505 Fourth Street. This site contains three service bays and one wash bay in a 10,400 square-foot building on 7.5 acres.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens says he is “pleased to welcome Penske Truck Leasing to the City of Windsor. This confirms once again that our strategic location is one of our greatest strengths. The Penske brand is respected all over the world and I want to thank them for their confidence in the Windsor market.”

Stephen MacKenzie, CEO of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation adds, “The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC) is pleased to welcome Penske Truck Leasing to the Windsor Essex region.

Penske’s new strategic location will serve our region well and strengthen the growing transportation and logistics sector in Windsor Essex. It was our pleasure to work with Penske and provide them with regional information and connect them with our transportation and logistics community. We are happy to have Penske call Windsor Essex home and will continue to support them in any way that we can.”

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At the ribbon cutting on June 9 from left are: Dan O’Boyle, Senior V.P. for Penske’s north central region; Tom Bain, Lakeshore Mayor and Essex County Warden; Drew Dilkens, Mayor of Windsor; Richard McLaughlin, Area Vice President for Penske Truck Leasing and Keyr O’Hara, Penske District Manager.

Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P., (GoPenske.com), headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania, is a partnership of Penske Corporation, Penske Automotive Group, GE Capital Holdings and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. A leading global transportation services provider, Penske operates more than 250,000 vehicles and serves customers from more than 1,000 locations in North America, South America, Europe, Australia and Asia. Product lines include full-service truck leasing, contract maintenance, commercial and consumer truck rentals, used truck sales, transportation and warehousing management and supply chain management solutions.

FRONTLINES

Let’s Build A Fort In Amherstburg!

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new family fun and entertainment centre has opened at the site of the former Verdi Club on Texas Road in Amherstburg, with plans to open more stages of the development by next spring.

A $3 million project of the Hearn Group and the Jones Group Inc., The Fort, at 689 Texas Road, will eventually feature a six lane bowling alley, a go-kart track, laser tag and gaming arcade and a campground, in addition to a restaurant and beach volleyball courts, which are already open.

Brad Hearn informs Biz X that he and Terry Jones have been talking about taking on a project such as this for a couple of years.

They have been looking for a site large enough to accommodate everything.

Doug Clarke, General Manager of The Fort family fun centre, poses in the restaurant at the newly-refurbished former Verdi Club on Texas Road in Amherstburg.

Photo by Dave Hall.

“When the Verdi Club became available, it was a no-brainer,” says Hearn. “Once we’re fully operational, you won’t find another place like it in Essex County with this much entertainment and food all under one roof.”

“We’re still knocking down walls and building walls in the interior so it should be nine or 10 months before it’s finished,” says Hearn. “Sometimes renovations are more costly but it’s often better than building new because here the infrastructure is already in place.”

General Manager Doug Clarke indicates the project will provide family entertainment for families across the region similar to those provided on Boblo Island in past years.

“We’ve heard from a lot of people in the Amherstburg area, many of whom had their first jobs on Boblo, and they love the concept and the fact it’s going to provide entertainment for the entire family,” believes Clarke, who spent 37 years working at Rose Bowl Lanes in Windsor before taking on his new role.

The restaurant, which opened four months

An official rendering of The Fort Family Fun Centre.

Sketch courtesy of Rosati Group.

ago as The Barracks, is already packed on weekends, and the outdoor beach volleyball courts are busy with league play Tuesday through Thursday with access to an outdoor pavilion for food and beverages.

“The leagues have become so popular that we’re thinking of adding short-season play in the fall to accommodate more teams,” Clarke remarks. “It’s become very popular very quickly and we’re very pleased with the support from the community.”

The outdoor area also features live music on Wednesday evenings.

The design-build contractor for the project is the Rosati Group with workers currently in the process of transforming the club’s former meeting spaces and banquet rooms into a six lane bowling alley, laser tag area and gaming arcade.

“The Fort is an exciting project for Amherstburg and Windsor and Essex County and will provide a new destination for family entertainment in the area,” states Denis Gauthier, Vice President of Project Development for Rosati. “Once it’s 100 percent completed with the new campground, it’s also sure to become a destination for vacationers as well.”

He adds, “It should be a boost for the local economy.”

The restaurant has been fully renovated with the addition of barnwood walls and large-screen televisions in the bar area.

Currently, the restaurant opens daily at 11 a.m. and closes “when there’s nobody here,” says Clarke.

So far, The Fort has about 25 employees and Clarke expects that number to increase to as many as 75 once all phases of the project are completed.

Clarke says the bowling lanes will be up and running next followed by laser tag and arcade gaming and then the go-kart track and 200-site campground. The campground will be available to both long-term and transient campers with recreational vehicles and tents on approximately eight acres.

For more information on this exciting new project visit: TheFortFunCentre.com.

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RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2017 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 17_90621_MSN_002

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FRONTLINES Keep On Trucking, Expressway Hino Windsor!

Hino Motors Canada, Ltd. (HMC) announced in mid-May that Expressway Hino, 3817 Essex County Road 46 in Maidstone, ON has been awarded the 2016 “Hino Parts & Service Dealer of the Year.”

The company received the highest ranking in HMC’s annual Parts & Service Dealer Evaluation. This award is a comprehensive measure of the dealer’s total business including Service Support, Parts Performance, and Overall Facility.

“Expressway Hino Windsor has been a Hino Dealership since 2012,” says Jeff Djevdet, District Service Manager, and Customer Support for HMC. “While not one of the largest dealerships with Hino Motors Canada Ltd., this award recognizes them as one of the best! The team at Expressway Hino Windsor has shown significant dedication

“We’re #1! We’re #1! Proud Expressway Hino Windsor employees were ecstatic to learn they earned the 2016 “Hino Parts & Service Dealer of the Year.” Photo courtesy of Expressway Hino Windsor.

and commitment by offering superior levels of customer support, and this is what sets them apart.”

Expressway Hino Windsor has been in business for over 35 years and serves as the original location for Expressway Trucks.

They have since expanded with locations in Ayr (Waterloo) and London. The business specializes in the service and repair of all makes of medium, heavy-duty trucks, highway tractors, and trailers. Check them out online at: ExpresswayTrucks.com.

New Spa Stimulates All The Senses, Promotes Rest & Relaxation Nestled in the heart of Riverside you’ll find a sanctuary for your senses and a haven for holistic health and happiness.

Anthi Karagianis-Carvallo is the Owner of Anthi’s Beauty & Wellbeing Spa, a unique spa boutique that is sure to have you floating off to paradise. As an aesthetician, body worker, certified massage therapist, spa practitioner, make-up artist and more, Karagianis-Carvallo promises to make you feel beautiful both inside and out.

“My clients’ well-being and beauty care is my top priority and I’m always creating treatments that are customized to their individual needs,” she explains.

“I like to create multi-layered experiences and awareness in a space that inspires both of us.”

Located at 5640 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor, Anthi’s Beauty & Wellbeing Spa opened in the Riverside community May 2017.

Previously Karagianis-Carvallo operated Anthi’s Esthetic & Wellness Day Spa in Tecumseh from 1998 until 2013.

Her new business came to life with the hard work put forth by her husband, Luis, along with a lot of support from family.

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Anthi Karagianis-Carvallo performs an aromatherapy massage treatment for a client in a serene suite in her new Riverside spa. Photo by Rebecca Wright.

Karagianis-Carvallo loves helping people feel and look better. She likes inviting her clients — whom she calls guests — into her serene space to indulge and spoil, and she also educates and encourages them to take on these practices on their own.

“I provide the community with support, health well-being, joy and beauty consciousness, and I encourage the ability we all have to nurture ourselves so we could relax more and also give this to our families and loved ones,” she states.

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While the spa is the soul of her business, Karagianis-Carvallo also sells a wide array of organic clothing and textiles such as silk, cotton and bamboo. She also sells products for face and body, along with makeup, jewellery and all types of accessories. And keeping in line with her holistic approach, her products are handmade and natural.

She notes that her business’s signature treatments are most popular, such as their rejuvenating and lifting facials, and their body treatments, like their aroma stone massage and rose petal exfoliation.

One treatment is called “The Goddess,” and Karagianis-Carvallo assures Biz X that her guests are truly are pampered like one!

Spa packages also draw you in by their name, and create a visual that is sure to evoke bliss, such as the “Amazonian Dreams Relaxation” and “Living Joy Ultimate Relaxation.”

“For me, my business is a way of being,” expresses Karagianis-Carvallo. “In our services, I look after the whole person with customized treatments that are intended for beauty, well-being, relaxation, rejuvenation and creativity.”

Ris Massetti says he’s either looking to sell outright or take on a partner after almost 30 years of selling burgers and beers on Via Italia.“It’s been listed off and on for three years,” says Massetti. “There have been a couple of tire-kickers, but nobody has come along with a serious offer. I’d be willing to have someone join me in the business or if someone wants all of it, that would be fine as well.” He notes, “I still enjoy coming here and I still enjoy the people, so I’m not going to lock the doors or anything like that.” Massetti says he’s had a good run and survived a couple of recessions, but adds “it’s tougher and tougher, but it’s still a great business to be in because you meet so many great people.”

BRINGING YOU UP TO SPEED ON THE LATEST BUZZ AROUND TOWN! You may have noticed a gourmet burger and hot dog restaurant has opened downtown Windsor in mid-June, featuring products from area butchers and local craft beers.

Larry Vallieres, a partner in the Burger Farm along with Bread Meats Bread owner Dave Prantera, says, “we’re trying to source as much as we can locally and support local producers.” The restaurant at 21 Chatham Street East features Frank Brewery’s amber ale, BREW’s lager and Craftheads IPA. Vallieres mentions he and Prantera plan to switch out beer choices on a regular basis to provide customers with a variety of options.

The restaurant’s hot dogs are supplied by Brenner Packers. Other menu items include fresh-made fries, a house salad, a kale salad and flavoured custard shakes supplied by a company in Strathroy. Burger Farm opens at 11:30 a.m. Monday to Saturday and closes at 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.“We’re still refining the hours to try and find a work-life balance for all of us,” says Vallieres.

Kurley’s A.C., one of Windsor’s iconic sports bars, remains for sale and long-time owner

Facing a bill in excess of $13,000 from the City of Windsor for a freedom of information request relating to council’s decision to eliminate commercial space on the ground floor of the Pelissier Street parking garage, the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) launched a GoFundMe campaign in early June. Through the first 10 days of the campaign, almost $4,000 has been raised.“It’s a joke that we have to go through this,” says DWBIA Chairman Larry Horwitz.

“We’re a committee of the city and they are still throwing up roadblocks. It makes you wonder what they are worried we might find after all this.” The request for corporate records, including emails, text message exchanges, notes and records between members of council and city administration, was made to better understand the rationale and reasoning behind Council’s decision to eliminate the commercial space and replace it with parking. This decision contradicted an earlier council decision, made in early 2016, to retain existing commercial spaces. Upon receiving the request, the city clerk’s office determined it would cost $13,672.20 in staff time and resources to fulfill the request.“It’s a confusing issue especially the way council handled it, but people have also become excited about it — which is good,” adds Horwitz.

Fuelled by an almost four-fold increase in

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government and institutional construction spending, the value of building permits issued by the City of Windsor through the end of May, is 50 percent higher than at the same time one year ago. Through the first five months of 2017, a total of $153,575,118 in permits had been issued compared to $102,225,220 a year ago. Institutional and government permits accounted for much of that increase, jumping from almost $16 million to more than $58 million. Residential permits increased from $69 million to $72.8 million and commercial increased from $12 million to $18.3 million while industrial dropped slightly from $4.9 million to $3.9 million.

Heard on the Street previously reported that the City of Windsor had appealed an Ontario Pay Equity Hearings Tribunal decision ordering back pay for lifeguards at the family aquatics centre and Adventure Bay. It turns out the city appealed a ruling two years ago in favour of one part-time facility attendant at the WFCU Centre, who filed the original order on her own over four years ago. It took until April of this year for the Tribunal to confirm the order and force the city to pay back $4,000 to the worker.

Under the Pay Equity Act, the decision will have a ripple benefit for scores of other similarly classified part-time employees, including some 50 to 60 lifeguards. The union agreed under duress to a two year wage rollback to avert the city’s threat to contract the aquatics centre jobs to the YMCA. Now the city is reportedly seeking a judicial review of the pay equity decisions. Mark Vander Voort, President of CUPE Local 543, has estimated the city could be on the hook for more than $200,000 in total back pay for the two years that various workers had their hourly pay rolled back by $1 to $2.

One local media source estimates the final result could involve a payback of $1.2 million for 300 workers. In the end this could become a messy election issue if the pay equity ruling is upheld by a superior court judge. Vander Voort says he wouldn’t be surprised if a six member block of the current Windsor City Council is re-elected in October, 2018 to see the parttime rec jobs contracted out along with up to 90 janitorial jobs.

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Bringing you all the action in the region since 1998.

To view more events visit: BizXmagazine.com

was there!

Photos by Chelsea Girard The Scottish Rite Learning Centre held its 10th annual graduation ceremony on June 13 at the Masonic Temple, 986 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor. The centre helps children in Windsor and Essex County overcome the learning obstacles associated with Dyslexia. To date, 53 children have benefited from attending the centre, plus the seven additional children photographed here in the 2017 graduating class with their tutors.

Since 2007 — using the “Orton-Gillingham Approach” — a team of volunteer tutors at the centre have provided one-on-one instruction aimed at assisting children in developing strategies to learn to read.

Two recent grads were: (left) Ethan Vaillancourt with tutor Rebbeka Rady and tutor Stephanie Charboneau with D.J. Forget. To get in touch with the centre email: scottishritewindsor@bell.net.

On June 17, 2017 the 4th Annual “We Will Rock Blue!” concert rocked downtown Windsor’s Chrysler Theatre with North America’s premier ABBA tribute show, ALWAYS ABBA. Before they hit the stage, band members held a meet and greet and Dylan Jones of the Biz X family was able to meet Ed Mortenson (Benny), Karen Coughlin-Melo (Anni-Frid), Kevin Beeby (Bjorn) and Michelle Truman (Agnetha). During their performance the band dedicated the song, “Does Your Mother Know” to young Dylan. Photo by Jack Rosenberg.

Enjoying the high life of the VIP Lounge (which included free massages from Above & Beyond Massage Therapy Clinic) were, from left: Gerald & Adelina Trottier, Chris & Kim Spirou, and Carlo & Nancy Abati.

ALWAYS ABBA members from left: Joel Lightman (drummer), Truman, Beeby and Coughlin-Melo (Mortenson missing) had concert goers singing along to ABBA favourites like “Mama Mia,” “S.O.S,” “The Winner Takes It All” and more, and ended on a high note with “Dancing Queen.” To Scott Rawlings of Magic Enterprises Productions and to ALWAYS ABBA, presenting event sponsor Biz X magazine wishes to “Thank You For The Music”! We can’t wait until year five!

ALWAYS ABBA photos by Paul Drouillard, unless marked.

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The concert supported Roots 2 Wings, which provides daily programs for youth and young adults living with a disability. In the lobby of the Chrysler Theatre, helping out at their booth, were from left: Shirley Harshaw, Office Administrator at Autism Ontario; Ashley DeWolfe, Freddy (last name withheld), Jody Lowrie, Owner of Roots 2 Wings and Natalia (last name withheld).

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To see even more photos from local events visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there!”

Hosted by The Windsor Jeep Club the “4th Annual Jeep Jam Poker Run” on June 11, 2017 saw 147 jeeps wind their way throughout the region to raise money for a local charity organization. Event Co-Organizer Laura Kay (left) and her daughter Rebecca Lefebvre give the thumbs up sign to start the convoy from On The Beach, 354 Croft Drive in Tecumseh.

The invaluable “Jeep Jam Poker Run” volunteers from left were: Corinne McDonald, Brooke Gyetvai, Kathy Worotny (Brain Injury Survivor), Marylene Lepine, Meghan Ellwood, Haley Brennan, Andrew Bastable, Matthew Meloche, Becky Renaud (Brain Injury Survivor), Wayne Rosze (Brain Injury Survivor), and sitting in front: Jocelyn Leigh and Gail Rosze.

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get involved and help support the Hungry, Homeless and Hurting in our community!

Jeep Jam photos

by Rod Denis

The Downtown Mission | 519-973-5573

The goal was to raise $10,000 for local brain injury support programs offered through Assisted Living of Southwestern Ontario (A.L.S.O.) but, the final total was an amazing $14,783! The Windsor Jeep Club (WJC) committee members, responsible for the event’s success, were from left: Gord Causton, VP; Debbie Kay, President; Laura Kay, A.L.S.O. Projects and Change Manager; Kim Trudell and Frank Micallef.

There were over 350 participants at the Jeep Jam, including the presenting sponsor, Motor City Chrysler (MCC) represented by staff and their family members from left: Justin Laframboise, MCC Sales Associate; Adrian Lavictoire, MCC Service Manager; Amber Lavictoire and Mitch Girard, MCC Sales Associate with (Back Row): Emma Lavictoire and Rosalind Piliotis.

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN Control system integration specialist Onyx Engineering Ltd. has been appointed as a Rockwell Automation Recognized System Integrator, offering superior application expertise for customers wanting a single resource for their Rockwell Automation based equipment. Rockwell Automation has an extensive range of industrial automation products and a worldwide reputation for high quality. The system integrator partnership with Rockwell Automation is designed to make automation and technology expertise available to all end users and machine builders, no matter what experience they have. Onyx Engineering Ltd., based in Windsor (2960 Jefferson Blvd; OnyxEngineering.com), is an award winning supplier of automation solutions with over 25 years of experience in the industry. The Onyx Engineering team is led by President Dave Nixon and Vice President Dino Oliva who, themselves, offer many years of experience in solving automation problems. As company founders and professional engineers, they are always looking to improve competency and what the company offers its customers. Services include machine upgrades, automotive systems, turnkey machine builds, packaging system upgrades, servo and robotic solutions, water treatment, kitchen and process control, stamping room expertise, together with vision systems, plus all the necessary manufacturing support and engineering. Onyx is joining a select group as one of only six recognized system integrators in Ontario. “We have always had a strong competency with Rockwell Automation technology,” says Project Manager Don Beadow. “This relationship makes us even better as a company.” Assembly and testing is carried out at Windsor with additional support from a field office in London.“We are particularly excited about the relationship

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with Rockwell,” adds Onyx Technical Sales Representative Jim Ische. “Our customers will be able to tap into the vast resources of this world leader in industrial automation.”

Jesse Garant Metrology Center (USA and Canada) has expanded its operations to accommodate the growing demand for high volume parts inspection for pre-production and production validation. With investments in new equipment and improved infrastructure, including state of the art industrial computed tomography systems for inspecting large parts, their enhanced capabilities solidify their position as leaders within the nondestructive testing and metrology parts inspection services industry. As part of a five year, $15 million roll-out investment in technology, Jesse Garant Metrology Center’s latest expansion includes a more diverse range of advanced imaging systems. The expansion includes a wider range of Industrial CT systems for improved inspection capabilities of industrial parts, digital x-ray systems for high volume part sorting, and new 3D scanning equipment for improved data capture of external features. “Our services are not only to provide our customers with the essential data they need to make qualified decisions, but to help meet the growing demand for larger scale part inspection projects, and continue to be a supporting role in the advancement of industry,” says Jesse Garant, President.

With three locations within Michigan and Ontario, the company’s centrally located labs primarily serve as an essential hub for the automotive and aerospace industries. Through this investment, the company will continue to be the largest Industrial CT scanning service provider in North America with the greatest diversity of inspection systems available today.

“This expansion means we’re able to easily

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adapt to industry and meet the challenges of parts inspection,” adds Garant. With clients ranging from local businesses to multinational corporations, the company has undergone steady expansion to meet demands from manufacturers around the globe. Last year, Jesse Garant Metrology Center was recognized as the 64th fastest growing business in Canada and second in Windsor Essex by PROFIT 500 and was also a finalist for “Ontario Exporter of the Year.” For more information, visit: JGarantMC.com.

In mid-June Elite Piano Studios expanded to a new 2,500 sq. foot state-of-the-art music building at 3315 Banwell Road in Windsor featuring world-class student instruments, accomplished and veteran music teachers and acoustically engineered recital space.

Playing it up for the camera are the “key” members of Elite Piano Studios. From left: Lucas Heney (Owner), Anita Sehra, Bethany Russell, Nadia Santoro, Brendan Friel, Justin Dow, Valene Daniel and Lisa Heney (Owner). Missing: Aidan Bujold. Photo courtesy of Matthew Chowtee.

During a time when many were leaving the region for other opportunities Lisa and her husband Luke Heney found an abundance of opportunity right here in Windsor Essex. “We made the move to Windsor from Kingston, Ontario and started teaching piano out of our

living room,” Lisa explains. “The community support was immense, and soon we purchased and renovated our first two room studio.” Lisa has been a piano instructor since 2004 and is also the co-founder of GoiPiano.com. She continues by saying, “Our new space is a music enthusiasts’ dream. It allows us to offer everything that we have wanted to give our students and community, from purposefully-built Grand Piano rooms to expanding our services to include guitar, voice, songwriting lessons, summer camps, and workshops.” Stay in “tune” with this company at: ElitePianoStudios.com.

NEW IN BIZ After 25 years as a teacher, Mary Beth Laing retired two years ago, but recently decided to shift gears to operate her new business, A Touch of Swede, working from her home, 8385 Riverside Drive East in Windsor (by appointment only: atouchofswede@gmail.com).

Laing invites potential customers to try her unique and attractive Authentic Swedish Dish Cloths in over 60 designs and colours. Designed in Sweden and printed in the U.K., these cloths are streak-free on surfaces like granite, stainless steel, glass, mirrors and more. “These cloths have been a staple in Scandinavian kitchens since 1949 but are hard to find in Canada,” she claims. Until now! Since the grand opening in May 2017 sales have since been brisk. “People love the performance, the beauty, and the Eco-friendliness of these cloths,” believes Laing.

She has continued to expand the Touch of Swede Team by adding Independent Sales Reps in Windsor, Essex/County, Chatham, London, Cambridge and Durham Region. Teaming with local schools for fundraising endeavours is her personal focus when it comes to her Swedish inspired product. “It’s a great year long fundraising opportunity to provide families and communities with a novel, eco-friendly and easily handled product.” Laing welcomes schools, sports teams, dance companies and other organizations to contact her via Facebook for more information about how the Swedish Dish Cloths can go to work for local associations.

“It’s a win-win,” says the former educator, who loves to talk about her product and share its beauty with others. But, that’s not all! Laing plans to launch sales of authentic Swedish inspired tea towels in September 2017.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO . . .

The Windsor Express Employment Professionals office (2885 Lauzon Parkway, Suite 118) recently celebrated 20 years in business. Owner Colleen Gaudette tells Biz X that the Express office opened May 5, 1997 and has since provided businesses and job seekers with employment solutions in a variety of fields, including industrial, clerical, skilled trades and professional. “The people and businesses of Windsor and Essex County have made these last 20 years great ones,” says Gaudette. “We have enjoyed helping area businesses to find the top talent they needed to take their businesses to the next level and job seekers to find their next career opportunity. We look forward to many more successful years.” Express is on a mission to put a million people to work annually. In 2016, the company generated $3.05 billion in sales and employed a record 510,000 people.

Find out more by logging onto: ExpressPros.ca.

HALL OF FAME Windsor Essex is winning big and being recognized for advancement in mental health education and awareness through the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) 2017 campaign, the “Sole Focus Project” (SoleFocusProject.ca). Douglas Marketing Group (DMG; ExperienceDMG.com), a Windsor-Detroit based advertising agency, is proud to accept their second international award for the recently launched campaign, which received a Platinum “Hermes Creative Award” prior to being honoured with a Gold Aster for “Total Advertising Campaign in Healthcare Education.” DMG worked closely with CMHA Windsor-Essex (WindsorEssex.CMHA.ca) to develop the campaign, whose mission is to build awareness for mental health while bringing

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education and programs forward to support people who are affected by mental illness across the region. The campaign also raises funds to ensure programs and educational outreach is a continuum for the community. Kim Willis, Director, Communications & Mental Health Promotion at CMHA-WECB adds, “The project and communications partnerships have been well received at and we are well on our way to raise the targeted $500,000.” The Sole Focus Project was launched in two parts — through a teaser (identities were hidden by green “soles” until the official campaign launch) and reveal campaign (with recognizable faces in the region) — and engaged participation from local leaders across business, media, community, sports and more. The strategy behind it was to profile the people of Windsor Essex as strong ambassadors for the cause.

In early June, the Ontario Historical Society presented Museum Windsor with the 2016 “Russell K. Cooper” Award in recognition of the Museum Expansion Project.

This award is presented to a living history museum, or a museum that delivers heritagebased programming, showing excellence in programming, ingenious problem solving, or site development. Museum Windsor’s almost $6 million expansion project showed innovation and creative problem solving utilizing budgetfriendly, historically appropriate measures to utilize two closely-located sites (François Baby House, 254 Pitt Street West and the Chimczuk Museum, 401 Riverside Drive West) and to meet the needs of its expanding collection and diverse local community. Highlights of the successful expansion project include: a now combined museum and art gallery space; a new bilingual, permanent community history exhibition; a First Nations/Original Peoples gallery with views of the Detroit River; a large Detroit River themed concourse, which features images and artifacts selected through collaboration with public input; two large temporary galleries and a large programming room; a hands-on interactive space for children; and additional collections storage. Congrats to all museum staff!

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JULY/MID SEPT2017 D AT E S T O R E M E M B E R

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

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

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

WINDSOR ESSEX *unless noted the area code to dial is 519 July 16/19/23/26/30: Summer tours at Willistead Manor (1899 Niagara) take place Sundays 6 to 8 p.m. and Wednesdays 7 to 9 p.m. $5.75 (Adults); $4.75 (Students and Seniors); $2.25 (Children 12 and under).

Make a tour of one of the City of Windsor’s most elegant mansions a part of your summer plans, and see the manor in its natural beauty. For more information, visit: Willistead.ca or phone 253-2365.

July 21: The Rotary Club of Windsor, 1918 and the Rotary Club of Essex host a “Fish Fry and BBQ” benefit for Clean Water in Ghana from 4 to 8 p.m. at Lakewood Park, 13451 Riverside Drive East at Manning Road in Tecumseh. Rain or shine. For your $25 ticket contact Karen Howard, 817-6363 or Kim Spirou, 551-3747.

July 22: “Fiesta Latina” is a free LatinAmerican music, dance and cultural celebration on Maiden Lane West, downtown Windsor from 2 to 9 p.m. featuring unforgettable music and dance experiences, culture kiosks, children’s activities and more. See: FiestaLatina.ca to get the info you need to know to be there!

July 25: Create your own animalthemed masterpiece at the “Paw-Casso Paint Night” for Second Chance Animal Rescue at The Thompson House, 5370 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $40 per person (maximum of 32 spaces are available). For more info email: scarescue.julie@outlook.com, check out the website: SCARescue.org or call 990-1760.

July 29: The Town of Essex displays its Canadian pride for its one day celebration, “Get Your Red and White ON” for Colchester’s 225th anniversary as part of the rich cultural legacy of Ontario’s and Canada’s 150 years. The event takes place at Colchester Park on the Saturday of “Explore the Shore” (July 29&30) and begins at 11 a.m. with children’s activities, a beach volleyball tournament, musical entertainment and a historical commemoration that ends with a spectacular display of fireworks over the lake. To find out the latest information contact: Doug Sweet, Director, Community Services, by emailing: dsweet@essex.ca or calling 776-7336 ext. 1130.

July 30: The third annual “Spotted in Windsor Water Balloon Toss Fundraiser” at Lanspeary Park, 1250 Langlois Avenue in Windsor from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. This year

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all proceeds go to The Ronald McDonald House. In addition to the 40,000 water balloons being thrown, the family friendly event features barbecued hamburgers, hotdogs, ice cream etc. plus games including obstacle courses, bubble soccer, a slip and slide, famous character appearances and more. For more info email:Joe@spottedin.ca or visit: SpottedIn.ca/winwbf.

Aug. 5 & 6: The “Canuck It Up! Festival Canadiana” along the Amherstburg waterfront and downtown core plus Fort Malden. Find details with event times and an activity schedule at their website: Amhersburg.ca/CanuckItUp. Aug. 6: The Riverside Royal Canadian Legion Branch 255 “Family BBQ Fundraiser,” 5645 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor from 4 to 7 p.m. Enjoy live music and BBQ ribs or chicken served with a salad bar for only $15 pp or $7 for children 10 years and under (purchase tickets at the branch).

Proceeds go to purchase much needed Branch big ticket equipment items. For info email: d.a.thomps@hotmail.com; refer to: RCLbranch255.com; or call 945-2012.

Aug. 8: The summer “Biz MiXer” cruise aboard the Macassa Bay. Boarding starts 5:30 p.m. for a three hour tour, but you MUST purchase your ticket in advance at: BizXmagazine.com. Call 977-2199 with any questions.

Aug. 9 to 13: “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest,” various locations. (WEpridefest.com). Flip to page 37 for more information.

Aug. 11 to 13: The “Windsor International Psychic Expo” at the Caboto Club is the city’s largest psychic expo with private readings, books, crystals, lectures and more.

Admission is $10 and good all weekend.

Hours: Friday noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information and a coupon go to: PsychicExpos.com.

Aug. 11 to 13: The 4th annual “Kingsville Folk Music Festival” at Lakeside Park, (KingsvilleFolkFest.org). See event profile on page 30 for all details.

Aug. 11 to 13: The “LiUNA 625 Walkerville Buskerfest” in Olde Walkerville, (WalkervilleBuskers.com). View page 37 of this issue to read bios on performers.

Aug. 12: The Connections Early Years Family Centre “Sixth Annual Charity Golf Tournament” at Sutton Creek Golf Course, 2135 County Rd. 12 in Essex from 1:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. Enjoy 18 holes of golf with a cart, B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

locker room service and access to the driving range as well as a barbecue lunch with a beer ticket and a steak dinner. Admission is $125 pp; dinner only, $45. For more info email:info@smflc.ca; see: ConnectWithUs.ca or call 252-9696.

Aug. 12&13: The “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” (WoofaRoo.com) at the Libro Credit Union Centre in Amherstburg. Turn to page 18 of this issue to learn more.

Aug. 12&13: “Windsor ComiCon” takes place inside The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor (WindsorComiCon.com). Go to page 42 of this edition for further details.

Aug. 14: Honour those we have lost to cancer at the “Drive Out Cancer Classic” at Sutton Creek Golf Club, 2135 County Rd 12, Essex from 10:30 a.m. (registration), tee off: 11:30 a.m. All proceeds go to the Patient Assistance Fund at the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation and Little Hands, Kids for a Cause. $120 pp. For more info email: driveoutcancer@outlook.com; refer to: DriveOutCancer.com for costs (prices for dinner, games or donations also available) or call 796-1067.

Aug. 18: The “Ouellette Car Cruise” presented by the Downtown Windsor BIA starts off from the Riverfront Festival Plaza on Riverside Drive East. Cruisers begin gathering at the plaza at 1 p.m. and the cavalcade of roaring engines and shining chrome begins at 6 p.m. towards Ouellette Avenue to Tecumseh Road East to Pillette Road and back to Riverside Drive to end at the plaza (music and fun until 11 p.m.). The cruise builds on the nostalgia of Windsor’s storied automotive history. Participation is free and all vintage, classic, custom, collector and special interest cars, street rods and muscle cars are welcome. To learn more, visit: CruisinOuellette.ca; email: debi@downtownwindsor.ca, or call 252-5723.

Aug. 18 & 19: “Chaps & Spurs Country Fest” at Lanspeary Park, 1250 Langlois Avenue in Windsor from 4 p.m. until 1 a.m.

Two days of great food, activities, vendors and country music including tributes to Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and Shania Twain, plus national recording acts Steve Oriet, Eric Ethridge, Leah Daniels, James Barker Band, and more! Ride Fu Manchu, the area’s angriest mechanical bull; participate in the Cornhole Tournament or take to the secondary stage in the beer gardens for the Lip Sync Contest.

Tickets start at $20 at: ChapsAndSpurs.com.

Fairgrounds admission is FREE without

main stage ticket. 19+ to attend. For more information, email: joegaron@hotmail.com or call 980-8405.

Aug. 18 to 20: The second annual “Sip & Savour Experience” presented by The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington at the new municipal waterfront properties, 5 Foster Avenue in Leamington.

This event is designed to bring chefs, farmers, vineyards, brew masters and local food producers together to create a uniquely local culinary experience. Highlights include: local food and drink vendors; appearance and presentation by a renowned celebrity chef, Chef Lynn Crawford; a ticketed “Fish Fry”* (Friday) and *VIP Signature Experience” (Saturday); a culinary-themed “Kid’s Day”; music and more! Admission is $4 (*additional cost) for those 12 and up; proceeds donated to Leamington District Agricultural Society Food Bank. Hours are Friday 5 p.m. to midnight; Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info email:carmina.halstead@yahoo.ca; check: SipAndSavour.onthe42.com or call 226-567-4262.

Aug. 20: The 50th anniversary celebrations continue with the St. Clair Alumni & Friends 10th annual “Family Fun Day” at St. Clair College South Windsor Campus, 2000 Talbot Road West, Windsor from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Free admission and free parking! Events include: inflatables, free swimming, a BBQ, petting zoo, pony & wagon rides, a chance to meet some of the 2017 Memorial Cup Champion Windsor Spitfires and more. Just email: munderwood01@stclaircollege.ca; visit: StClairAlumni.com; or phone 972-2747 with any questions.

Aug. 20: The “Madonna Di Canneto Festival” in Oldcastle, 10 a.m. mass; 11 a.m.

BBQ/picnic; 1 p.m. traditional foods and the festivities continue with entertainment until 11 p.m. See their website: CiociaroClub.com for more details.

Aug. 21: The Pure Day Spa 10 year anniversary party at 1614 Lesperance Road in Tecumseh from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. with a

fashion show, DJ and more. Teaming up with T2B in support of the Pediatric oncology education program, all proceeds from the evening’s raffle and silent auction will be donated. Free to attend. For more info email: puredayspa@cogeco.net; check the website: PureDaySpa.ca or call 735-0101.

Aug. 24 to 27: The 42nd annual “Tecumseh Corn Festival” at Lacasse Park in the Town of Tecumseh has something for the entire family, including delicious corn-on-the-cob, exciting carnival rides, vendor village, “Miss Tecumseh” pageant, parade and amazing entertainment all weekend long. For more information log on to: TecumsehCornFestival.ca.

Aug. 26: The 9th annual “March For Jesus Celebration Event 2017,” a free community event where everyone is welcome. Gathering at 3 p.m. at Morris Sutton Funeral Home, 68 Giles Blvd East, Windsor. The Celebration March begins at 4 p.m. The route is Ouellette Avenue and Goyeau ending at Charles Clark Square. Prayer and music to follow.

Bring your flags, banners and floats. Caps and T-shirts available for purchase at the gathering point and BBQ sale at Charles Clark Square. The latest updates for “March for Jesus Celebration Event” on Facebook or call 977-6569.

Aug. 26 & 27: Love art? Join over 160 topnotch artists and artisans in Amherstburg at “Art by the River,” Essex County’s original arts and crafts festival since 1967. Browse before you buy from 10-5 at Fort Malden National Historic Site, 100 Laird Avenue in Amherstburg. Admission is $5; children 12 and under are free! Questions? View: GibsonArtGallery.com or call 736-2826.

Aug. 31 to Sept. 3: The Colchester South and Harrow Agricultural Society presents its “163rd Harrow Fair” with its displays of culinary arts, needle arts, grains/seeds, roots/ vegetables, flowers, photography, contests, parade, plenty of livestock animals and more! Refer to: HarrowFair.com for pricing, directions and the complete event schedule.

Sept. 9: The Olde Riverside Business

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Association presents the “7th Annual Wheels on Wyandotte Car & Motorcycle Show” from 1 to 4 p.m. from 5300 to 5900 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor. Car registration starts at 10 a.m. This classic car show is one of the best and features family friendly activities, as well as a Silent Auction featuring a Windsor Spitfire Box for one game, bikes and sidewalk sales. $10 registration fee for all vehicles with all proceeds going to Windsor Police Service Camp Brombal for Kids. For more information go to: OldeRiversideBIA.com or call 962-6550.

Sept. 10: The Essex County Ontario Provincial Police host the 4th annual “Torch Ride for Special Olympics Ontario” starting at 9 a.m. at the Atlas Tube Centre (ATC), 447 Renaud Line in Lakeshore. This annual motorcycle ride brings together riders from all over Southern Ontario in support of Special Olympics Ontario. Riders begin their journey at the ATC and then travel along the waterfront throughout the county before returning to the ATC for entertainment and a pasta luncheon. Riders have a chance to interact with local Special Olympians while participating in a poker run. Admission is $30 for riders/$20 for passengers. For more info email: jim.chauvin@opp.ca; check: TorchRideOntario.com or call 551-1205.

Sept. 16: The Inaugural “Biz X Beach Bash Volleyball Tournament,” organized by Border City Sports and Events at On The Beach 354 Croft Drive, Tecumseh. Mixed sixes takes to the courts for a day of volleyball, prizes, socializing and fun with proceeds to benefit The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Check-in: 10 a.m.; games begin at 11 a.m. and go into the evening. Food (added cost), music by the Mix 96.7 and lots of fun is guaranteed! Entry fee: Early Bird before Sept. 4, $150 per team; after Labour Day price is $180 per team. Final date to register is Sept. 12. For information or to register a team, send an email to: bordercitysportsandevents@gmail.com; go to: BorderCitySportsAndEvents.com or give John a call at 817-6242.

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FEATURE STORY By Rebecca Wright

A

nimal lovers and their furry companions are gearing up for the 5th annual “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest,” which continues to get bigger and better each year.

Director and Founder Lorene Clayton says the event is the region’s only pet and family festival, and so it’s a great way to celebrate the special bonds and relationships so many share with their beloved pets.

“We’ve been coined the festival of smiles because everyone has a great time,” declares Clayton. She adds that vacations and work schedules are often adjusted to attend what she describes as a “ funtastic festival for pets and their people.”

Clayton describes the mood at “Woofa~Roo” (WoofaRoo.com) as friendly, funny and focused on bringing people together with common interests — their love of animals.

“People don’t have to be a pet owner to enjoy our festival — and many people choose to leave their pets at home,” notes Clayton. “There is so much to see and do — both indoors and out — that many attend both days.”

Held Saturday and Sunday, August 12 and 13 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Libro Credit Union Centre, 3295 Meloche Road in Amherstburg, this year’s “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” is expected to draw up to 12,000 people and 4,000 dogs.

“All friendly dogs are welcome to bring their responsible owner,” comments Clayton, suggesting people read their pet policy online prior to bringing your pet.

The dynamic two day event features a charitable twist, benefitting nine different charities and rescues.

“We enhance their profile with the public, help their fundraising efforts, increase their volunteer base, foster homes and secure homes for animals needing to be re-homed,” says Clayton. “Many of our rescues and charities consider ‘Woofa~Roo’ as their largest fundraising event of the year and count on the exposure they receive at our festival to recruit volunteers and foster homes.”

The event’s Adoption Circle is front and centre at “Woofa~Roo” and is always a highlight of the event, according to Clayton.

“Every single dog at our festival last year was adopted and our rescues had more applications than dogs,” states Clayton.

“Adoptions were being conducted well into the new year as a result of our efforts at ‘Woofa~Roo Pet Fest.’”

Several vendors contribute directly to the event’s Silent Auction and various events, such as the “Dock Diving,” “Disc Dog” and more, donate their proceeds to the rescues and charities involved in the event.

“One particular event, which we are

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THE 5TH ANNUAL

“Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” For Those Who Must Love Dogs!

Odin is going, are you and your dog? Don’t miss this year’s biggest and best “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest,” held August 12 and 13 in Amherstburg. Friendly, leashed and vaccinated pets are welcome to attend.

very excited about, is our ‘Castle Lane,’ sponsored and created by Suzanne Marsh,” notes Clayton. “This is a children’s zone that encourage our young or young at heart to relax in a fantastical corner of our festival, and 100 percent of the proceeds from ‘Castle Lane’ are generously donated to Motor City Greyhound Rescue.”

Proceeds from the “Woofa~Roo Gauntlet” event — which tests your dog’s skills and training through an obstacle course — benefit Danes in Distress.

The Windsor Police Service Canine Unit was so popular last year, Clayton says this year they’re enhancing the event field for B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

Two-legged and four-legged officers getting ready to demonstrate their policing skills to a standing room only crowd at a past event. Photo courtesy of Born to Run Photography.

The festival’s events are fan favourites and attract attendees and participants from near and far each year. (Left): A dog releases the ball from the spring board box before running back to the start line to complete his leg of the relay race in “Flyball.” (Middle): A dog is released to chase a mechanical lure along the field during the “Lure Coursing” event.

(Right): A dog sets up to catch a disc thrown from the other side of the field during the “Disc Dog” event. Photos courtesy of Born to Run Photography.

their highly anticipated repeat presentation this year.

“We are also expanding our events on this field to include a new game of distraction called the ‘Woofa~Challenge’ and bringing back our popular ‘Wacky Weiner Dog Races,’” adds Clayton.

Biz X magazine is once again sponsoring the fast and furious “Flyball” event, which Clayton says is a must-see, featuring dogs flying down a lane of hurdles to a springloaded box to retrieve a ball.

“Flyball is exciting to watch and Biz X magazine provides ear protection for our guests to watch in comfort,” Clayton notes.

The “crazy fun event” continues to grow in popularity and draws flyball teams from as far as South Dakota and Ottawa.

“We have onsite camping largely due to this event,” states Clayton. “People travel great distances to compete at this sport. Many spend their entire summer crisscrossing the country to play this sport.

Most have multiple dogs in ‘Flyball,’ and they particularly like “Woofa~Roo” because they can also compete in ‘Disc Dog’ and ‘Dock Diving!’”

Another popular event is the “Dog Agility” set up which is a demonstration of skill as the Border City Barkers put their dogs through a great show for the public.

“With three shows daily that will be held indoors in a climate controlled environment,

this event is weather proof,” adds Clayton.

The “Lure Coursing” is also a festival favourite, according to Clayton. Held throughout the weekend during various times, this event is open to all dogs that love to run and chase things.

“The lure (a plastic bag) follows a pre-set course,” describes Clayton. “It’s fun to watch and fun to try!”

A well trained dog climbs the bridge during the Border City Barker’s “Dog Agility” performance. Photo courtesy of Born to Run Photography.

This year’s “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” sponsors are: The Windsor Star, Biz X magazine, Clayton Studio, AM800 CKLW, Suzanne Marsh, Canadian Tire, Home Hardware, Crumps’ Naturals, Steimar Bakery, Donna Jean Mayne Sculptures and Howard Johnson.

Joe Crump, President of The Crump Group, says this is their first time as a

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sponsor of the event, but the business has participated in the event in the past. “‘Woofa-Roo’ does a fantastic job of drawing in attendees from near and far, which provides Crumps’ Naturals the perfect opportunity to build brand awareness and showcase new products,” states Crump, whose business specializes in all natural pet treats (Crumps.ca).

Clayton notes that the annual fun familyfriendly festival wouldn’t be possible without their “best and most dedicated” volunteers, many of whom return every year to help out.

“Some love the social aspect of our festival, some need the volunteer hours for their community service requirements, but all are there because they love animals,” remarks Clayton. “They are an integral part of our festival and we depend on them to keep the wheels turning at our event.”

And because “Woofa~Roo” does not serve alcohol on site, their volunteer base is open to a much wider group of people.

“We have volunteers ranging in age from 13 to 91, and 10 percent of our volunteers have special needs and bring with them a happy eager attitude,” boasts Clayton.

The festival continues to grow each year, and this year there will be about 70 exhibitors. There are so many unique businesses that participate, says Clayton, like Etch Your Service, which creates custom pet monuments and more.

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There are also several non-pet related businesses that are involved in the event this year, such as Sentry Windows & Doors, Arbonne, Younique Products, Canadian Blood Services, the Windsor Essex County Health Unit and more.

“Many of our non-pet related businesses add a twist to the weekend by presenting a pet related angle to their booth,” adds Clayton. “For instance, Sentry Windows & Doors will feature their very popular dog doors and pet proof screens.

The Windsor Essex County Health Unit will also be doing a presentation at our ‘Pet-Ucation Centre’ on rabies.”

Admission is $5 per person and children under five are free to attend.

Now, let’s read on to learn about some of the exhibitors and vendors at this year’s fun and exciting “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest!”

Give A Dog A (Raw) Bone Natural nutrition is a cornerstone to many people’s diets, and they want the same for their pets.

The Hungry Pooch Owners, Alina and Attila Sherman, believe raw food is what’s best for your furry family member.

“We are all about species-appropriate raw food diets for cats and dogs,” states Alina. “We are experts in nutrition and, specifically, raw feeding.”

Their business offers free nutritional consults to provide guidance on what works for each specific pet. The Hungry Pooch (1243 Grand Marais Road West, Windsor; TheHungryPooch.com) is Windsor’s first and only dedicated raw pet food shop, claims Alina.

“We specialize in affordable raw pet food, treats, supplements and accessories for pets in Windsor and Essex County,” she states.

“From DIY to thaw-and-serve, we’ve got all your raw feeding needs under one roof, and offer free delivery for all our areas, from LaSalle to Wheatley.”

This is the first time The Hungry Pooch has a booth at “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest.” They’ll

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One of The Hungry Pooch’s owners, Alina Sherman, is photographed with her dog, JellyBean. She says her business is very community-oriented and loves being involved with “Woofa~Roo.” Photo courtesy of Blush Photography.

Amherstburg) has been in the community since 2007 and provides dog washing, drying, clipping, scissoring, nail cutting, and ear cleaning with top quality tools and equipment.

“Plus we handle many breeds of dogs with different grooming styles,” states Sarah.

This is their third time participating in “Woofa~Roo” and this year they plan to host a social meet and greet at their booth to “get to know your groomer.”

“We’ll be there to answer any questions about your pet’s grooming needs and the services we provide,” explains Sarah.

“We’re there to be social and have fun, and with many years of experience between us, we’re happy to answer questions about proper pet grooming.”

be giving away free samples of Big Country Raw pet food and more.

Alina says since this is the region’s only dedicated pet event, they wouldn’t miss getting involved.

“Woofa~Roo is vital in our community,” she believes. “There are not a lot of summer festivals where pets can attend, and we all know how much we love our pets, so we truly believe this event is a must in our area for fun and hearing about what’s new in our community.”

Pampering Your Pup Sisters Sarah and Marie Taylor specialize in styling and grooming your pet so that they’re looking their best!

As Owners of Four Paws Spa Limited Pet Grooming, the pair offers quality hygienic care, cleaning and styling of dogs.

“We keep pets looking good and smelling nice,” asserts Sarah.

“And our #1 job is to provide safe handling and a gentle environment for your pet,” adds Marie.

Four Paws Spa Ltd. (147 Gore Street,

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Sarah Taylor, one of the owners of Four Paws Spa Limited Pet Grooming, is pictured with a pampered pup. Her business handles many breeds of dogs with different grooming styles. Photo courtesy of Four Paws Spa Limited Pet Grooming.

Both Sarah and Marie agree “Woofa~Roo” is a “spectacular event” that gives back in a great way, and offers great exposure for local businesses. “‘Woofa~Roo’ offers the opportunity for community fellowship, as well as supporting charities,” say the sisters. “It’s a win-win!”

Learn more about their services on

Facebook under “Four Paws Spa Limited Pet Grooming.”

A One Stop Shop For Animals Jamie Kerester, Owner of Paws for Love Inc., stresses that what makes her business truly unique is how it offers so much under one roof — a doggie daycare, boarding, grooming and a training facility.

“Where else can your dog play with their doggie friends all day, spend the night in one of our spacious kennels and get a full groom all before being picked up the next day?” asks Kerester.

they have to offer. They’ll have a few items to sell, such as collars, leashes and toys, but it will mainly be an information booth.

“We want to let people know about doggie daycare and some options for boarding for their pet that is a little more interactive than the traditional boarding kennel,” she explains.

Kerester has also started another business, the DJ Wilderness Ranch, which she says has been a work in progress for a couple of years. It features off-road Segway style adventures and a horse park with obstacles and trails. (Read more about DJ Wilderness Ranch in this issue of Biz X on page 26).

Kerester feels “Woofa~Roo” is a great event for pet parents to check out in the community because having such a wide variety of pet care businesses in one place makes it much easier for pet owners to find exactly what they need for their pet.

“Any time that owners spend time with their pets builds the bond between them and makes for a much happier animal and a less stressed human,” she adds.

De-Stressing Treatments For One Lucky Dog Imagine professional pampering for your pet right in the comfort of your home. That’s what Pawz Therapy Owner Marti Vardai specializes in with her business!

As a mobile Certified Canine Massage Therapist, Vardai performs hands-on deep tissue techniques for your dog.

There are a number of benefits to massage therapy for your dog, including: increased circulation, reduced muscle spasms, tension relief, enhanced muscle tone, promotion of healing and increased range of motion.

“My goal is to provide fuzzy kids with optimal health, to all life stages and sizes,” states Vardai, who is a Registered Veterinary Technician, as well as an Animal Reiki Practitioner.

Along with the massage therapy, the company offers custom handmade collars, bowties and ties. (Find out more about their

As you can see in this photo, Paws for Love Inc. Owner Jamie Kerester truly loves all four legged creatures.

Her business provides an engaging and interactive atmosphere for your dog to enjoy, both physically and mentally. Photo courtesy of Paws for Love.

Paws for Love Inc. (PawsForLove.ca) operates out of an 8,000 square-foot facility at 333 Holden Avenue in Windsor and has been open since 2005.

The business had a booth at the very first “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” and Kerester says they’re returning this year to once again let people know about their business and what

Pawz Therapy Owner Marti Vardai gets up-close and cozy with one of her dogs, Tika. The canine massages she specializes in have countless benefits. They relax, calm, relieve stress and soreness, and more.

Photo courtesy of Pawz Therapy.

services and products by logging on to their website: PawzTherapy.com.)

Vardai is excited to be a part of “Woofa~Roo” this year as she loves how it brings families together and she enjoys the great public participation aspect.

“More events need to be focused on family and activities for children, in the community,” states Vardai. “‘Woofa~Roo’ gives the time for families to enjoy each other with good company and fun.”

Accessorize And Stylize Your Pet If you want to accessorize and dress your dog to the nines with quality handmade statement pieces, Jillian Olender, Owner of Jillian’s Haberdashery (Jolender.ca), has just what you need!

“My business is making things I enjoy,” states Olender, who started her company

FOUR PAWS SPA LTD. Professional Pet Grooming

A small town shop with big city style!

Pet Grooming Nail Trimming Ear Cleaning BIG DOG Services

147 Gore Street, Amherstburg 519-736-0111 Find us on Facebook - FourPawsSpaLimited

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in February 2017. “It started out with sewing dresses for my newest niece, then moved into items for my cats and dog, and it continues to morph and grow into other sewn items and new crafts and paintings.”

She specializes in dog collar accessories, and she also makes catnip toys and plush pillow toys for your pet.

Time To Walk The Dog (and more) Sometimes it’s hard finding someone you can trust to care for your pet when you can’t, but Amanda Garant, Owner of Amanda’s Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Services, has the professionalism, experience and expertise to put your mind at rest and assure you that your pet is in good hands.

As a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), she’s been running her mobile business for more than 10 years and has hundreds of clients in the community.

She travels directly to her clients’ homes and offers her services in Windsor, Tecumseh and LaSalle.

Check out this pup’s patriotism! Jillian’s Haberdashery Owner Jillian Olender receives some smooches from her dog, Kaiya, who is wearing a special Canada Day bow tie she made. Photo courtesy of Jillian’s Haberdashery.

At her booth at the “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest,” she’ll be selling pet-related items, including catnip toys, dog bow ties, hand-painted pet silhouettes, bandanas and more.

She says her love of pets is the basis for her business, and she jumped at the opportunity to share these things with other people who feel the same about their pets through “Woofa~Roo.” “People should come to “Woofa~Roo” because all pets are awesome and make life better,” asserts Olender. “And people should bring their pets to check me out there because everything I have is handmade of the highest quality and super cute.”

“Woofa~Roo” is a great event to have in the community because so many other events aren’t pet friendly, she adds.

“To celebrate specifically pets is a great, important thing,” she declares.

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Amanda Garant, Owner of Amanda’s Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Services, provides professional and personalized care for your canine family member.

Photo courtesy of Amanda’s Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Services.

Amanda’s Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Services (AmandasPetSitting.vpweb.ca) offers dog walking, pet sitting — including feeding, playtime and bathroom pickup —

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medicine administration, basic training, attention and affection and a referral program for existing clients. And because Garant is an RVT, she’s trained to be able to work with special-needs pets as well.

Garant says her business offers an alternative form of pet care instead of a kennel or doggy daycare.

“Festival goers should swing by my booth to learn how I can help them get away on that vacation they’ve been yearning for, but just can’t figure out what to do with their furry family members while they are gone,” Garant suggests. “Or to learn how they can get their lunch break back without having to run home to let the dog out!”

Garant has been a part of “Woofa~Roo” since its first year and she’ll be holding a free raffle at her booth this year.

She says because she has more than 350 clients, she works constantly and doesn’t often get a chance to participate in community events as much as she’d like to.

“Woofa~Roo” has been building quite the following and its reach is extending further each year, so it’s so nice to be a part of it, she adds.

“I get to talk to and see fellow colleagues in the pet industry, see my own clients who come out to support me and meet hundreds of other pet lovers all taking part in this social and charitable festival,” states Garant.

“It’s very rewarding!”

The Dog Days Of Summer Are Upon Us Whether you read this article before the “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest,” receive a copy when you drive up to park at the event, or read it months from the date of the magazine release, we hope you have learned about ways to love and care for your pet.

There are so many pet-related businesses in this region dedicated to providing products and services that will assist you in being the best pet owner you can be. They’re animal lovers just like you and their businesses aim to please your pets’ every need!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN

By Rebecca Wright

TRACY CALSAVARA

A Professional Dog Trainer With Pawsitive Techniques

W

hen it comes to training your dog, a local business owner believes that while the dogs are doing most of the learning, it’s important the owners are educated on professional practices as well.

“I focus on educating people regarding the importance of socialization and positive training techniques so that they can form a loving bond with their dogs,” asserts Absolutely Fetching Dog Training Owner Tracy Calsavara. “Our primary focus is to guide you to teach your dog using effective, positive, stress free training techniques.”

Located on Front Road North in Amherstburg, Calsavara’s home-based business has been operating in the community since 2015.

Her business provides Essex County dog owners with the opportunity to learn the skills needed to raise well-balanced and safe companion dogs.

Calsavara says the dogs and clients she works with are her inspiration: “Each dog I have had the opportunity to work with has taught me something, and my clients continue to amaze me with their unconditional love and devotion for their pet.”

Calsavara found herself in the animal care industry after volunteering with the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society.

She mentions that her understanding of animals and her insights into their behaviour were quickly noted and she was asked to manage the behaviour department.

“This type of practical education gave me exposure to a variety of dogs and behaviour problems,” explains Calsavara.

Tracy Calsavara has a keen ability to think outside the box, when it comes to dog training, and through her business has helped many local dogs and their owners form stronger and healthier bonds. Photo courtesy of Angie Chauvin Photography.

Although shelter animals remain close to her heart, she recognized the need for positive reinforcement trainers in our community.

“After graduating from the Karen Pryor Academy of Animal Training and Behaviour as a Certified Training Partner, I started to develop a business plan focusing on teaching people to use positive training methods to modify behaviours and teach their pets,” Calsavara states.

Through her business, she hopes to get out to the public that physical and psychological intimidation is not required to train your dogs.

“Using positive and stress free training techniques help you establish a working

relationship with your dog and form a strong bond,” she remarks.

The most popular service Absolutely Fetching provides clients is their house call service, according to Calsavara.

“Families with hectic schedules find our house calls a convenient way to train in the comfort of their own home,” Calsavara notes. “When visiting a client’s home, we are able to see their dog interact with the family in the home environment.”

Group classes are also very popular, which is a great way to teach a dog to interact with other dogs in a controlled setting, she adds.

While at times it can be quite exhausting trying to balance home, family and business, Calsavara is fortunate to have a very supportive family and her dream has always been to have her own training facility at home, primarily to help balance her life.

“I am excited to say my new training space will be opening in the fall of 2017,” she proudly states. “This will be a customized training building on 13 acres of land that will provide clients a safe environment to attend group or socialization classes.”

Absolutely Fetching is committed to making dog training fun and not tedious.

“Our goal is to make a connection with our clients and provide them support while learning skills needed to train their companion dogs,” she says.

Look for the Absolutely Fetching booth at the “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” on August 13 & 14 in Amherstburg.

As well, you can check out their website: AbsolutelyFetching.ca for further details on their training methodology and services.

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NEW IN BIZ

Come Along For The Ride At DJ Wilderness Ranch Story And Photos By Dave Hall

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n Essex County couple are transforming a 25 acre property near Kingsville into a quiet peaceful haven for horseback enthusiasts and segway riders.

Jamie Kerester and her partner Dave Sprague have opened DJ Wilderness Ranch on Road 3 West, just off the Arner Townline, where three acres of segway trails and 25 acres of obstacle courses await outdoor enthusiasts willing to try something new and different less than an hour from Windsor.

Sprague has owned the property, which encompasses a total of 50 acres, for about nine years and just recently he and Kerester decided to convert it into an outdoor wilderness area.

“There was a dirt bike track here for a while and we’ve had horses on the property as well and we decided it was time to try something new,” says Kerester. “And we thought it was perfect for horseback riding and segway riding.”

Devon Sprague, left, and his father Dave use a pair of segways at DJ Wilderness Ranch.

There are manicured gravel trails and obstacles courses along with a bunkhouse for overnight stays, as well as a westernthemed area complete with mock-ups of a

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general store, saloon, a Wells Fargo office and a sheriff’s jail.

“It’s a great place for people to trailer their horses in and spend an entire morning or afternoon on the trails,” Sprague suggests.

“I don’t think there’s anything like it anywhere near here. We want people to enjoy themselves in a beautiful outdoor setting.”

Horse owners are encouraged to put their horses in trailers and enjoy the peaceful, tranquil setting amid trees and trails. There are also goats on the property for kids to pet and feed for a unique family day out.

“Horse riders can use the trails and hills,” says Kerester. “We are also building some obstacles such as water crossings, teetertotters, bridges, tire obstacles, steps and hills.”

She adds, “People can spend the afternoon doing the obstacles throughout the park, as well as going for walks though the 25 acres of bush trails.”

Kerester, who is also a nurse at the Met campus of Windsor Regional Hospital and operates Paws for Love Inc. (333 Holden Avenue, Windsor; see more information on page 21 of this issue), believes her new business provides a peaceful respite from the pressures of city living.

“It’s quiet and peaceful out here,” Kerester comments. “We’re surrounded by trees and it seems as if we are miles from the city and yet we’re still very close.”

Kerester is encouraging groups to visit for parties, corporate and team-building events, as well as singles and couples who just want to bring their horses or rent segways and try something out of the ordinary.

“We’re still working on fine-tuning some of the courses and obstacles, but we opened with a small group of horse riders in

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Jamie Kerester and her seven year old American Cream Draft Horse, Diesel, at DJ Wilderness Ranch in Kingsville where horseback riders and segway riders can roam more than 25 acres of trails.

mid-June and we’re expecting more to join us,” states Kerester.

Sprague and his son Devon are also building a small store, which will sell a variety of products such as drinks and refreshments, as well as horse-themed key hooks, name plates and other items.

“We are trying to make it as familyfriendly as possible,” Kerester indicates.

The ranch is open by appointment only, at the moment, with plans to expand the hours once demand increases.

Groups on horseback pay $35 per person for three to four hours while singles pay $60 per person. Segways can be rented for $29 per half-hour or $49 for an hour.

For more information, visit their website: DjWildernessRanch.com.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

Avoid Developing Pet Peeves

By Dave Halliday

Y

ou remember the fateful day your family instantly grew, quite well. As you made your way up the walk of the old farm house an older gentleman called to you from the barn.

“You must be the fellow regarding the pups?” he inquired and directed you towards him.

As he opened the barn door out came two of the fattest little balls of energy you had ever seen. The mother Lab was right behind them and your kids made a beeline for the pups.

“These are the last two,” says the old farmer adding that two couples had just been there.

It turns out they were both males, brothers of course. “Well guys, which one will we take home?” you asked your children . . . Thirty minutes later you were driving home with two kids and two black Labrador pups in your car!

The brothers were named Rudy and Duke by the kids who promised to take care of them faithfully. Now, your days revolve around feeding, walking, and checking in on the dogs, on your lunch break, instead of eating.

One of the best things about Labs is their intelligence; however, it is also one of their worst traits as they are capable of becoming bored. When the pups are left alone there is no telling what they might do! House plants, drywall, carpeting, furniture — nothing escapes their wrath! You need help.

Fortunately, we at Biz X were able to discuss the possibilities of retaining a professional when it comes to caring for and dealing with our pets.

Shawn Marc Amerlinck, Owner of My Pet’s Butler, was kind enough to sit and describe the services available from his in-home professional pet care/dog walking, pet sitting company, which has been caring for the pets of Essex County for the past six years.

It is important to note that Amerlinck is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). As well, My Pet’s Butler is the 2012 Biz X Award

recipient for “A Pet Owner’s Best Friend!”

You can learn more about his company on the web at: MyPetsButler.ca or come out and see him at the 2017 “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” August 12 & 13 in Amherstburg. (See feature story on page 18 in this issue, for details).

But, for now, let’s start with the basic details about their services with the answers to the following questions.

What services does My Pet’s Butler provide? “Administration of medications, nail trimming, brushing, dog/cat minor grooming, dog walking, litter box cleaning, pet playtime, exercise, and companionship are all within our scope,” replies Amerlinck. “We will poop scoop your yard, provide daily feeding and water, flea treatments, and even carry out a brief inspection of your home if you are away.”

When one thinks of caring for pets the first thing that comes to mind is dogs. Do you care for other pets too? “My Pet’s Butler and staff are trained and equipped with the knowledge to care for dogs, cats, and rabbits,” states Amerlinck. “We have also provided care for horses, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, hedgehogs and the occasional bird.”

Are there also daily services available for those that are gone for the majority of the day due to work? “Yes, I have a category called a Mid-Day Potty Break,” Amerlinck explains.“This service is a quick session that usually involves dogs.” He elaborates by saying, “A good 15 to 20 minute session allows the dog to run, stretch and play in their own backyard.

This is a great service for pet owners that have a consistent nine to five job and it gives the dog the time they require until the owner arrives home.”

What would you say are the benefits to bringing the care to your pet in the home?

“The pets have less anxiety, resulting in no nail

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Shawn Marc Amerlinck, Owner of My Pet’s Butler, in-home professional pet care, poses with Nitro, a Golden Retriever and Bob, a Bassett Hound.

Photo courtesy of Sivyer Photography.

scratching, pulling fur out, barking or destroying the home,” Amerlinck says. “They eat regularly and on time — assisting with regular bowel movements. Cats get to enjoy being in their own environment and dogs in general enjoy companionship and are creatures of habit. It is not uncommon for us to arrive at a client’s home and find the dog waiting for us.”

Besides the obvious benefits for the pets what are some of the benefits to the pet owner? “Pet owners have less guilt and anxiety about leaving their pet confined to a cage or compartment at a local animal hospital or boarding facility,” offers Amerlinck. He then concludes, “We help achieve peace of mind for pet owners as they know their pets that have medical conditions are being cared for and medicated on time and their home is being supervised and respected while they are away.”

As the Lab brothers grew older, their behaviour has improved and you are certain the daily mid-day attention has helped them get over the anxiety they were feeling. It’s a good thing because you were running out of furniture legs and everyone was short on socks and underwear as well!

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portfolio corner

A Summer Reset

By Steven Mayo

In recent months, managing portfolios has become more challenging with a recent trend of a fewer number of stocks rising while other stocks/sectors such as financials and energy have been in decline.

As a result, for some investors, their portfolios may have declined since February/ March highs, even though U.S. indices have hit new highs. Of course, this is the reality of investing and diversification.

Portfolios designed to have dividend paying stocks can underperform a market that is leaning to only one or two sectors, and often not dividend paying.

Proper portfolio management requires diversification. It’s not flashy; it considers such things as risk tolerance, suitability (the guidelines that apply to each account), the need for income, and the protection of capital.

I know there will be a new set of news and predictions every day. I know each market cycle is different and each sector in the market indices can have their own cycle.

I realize a rising stock is not automatically suitable for a portfolio, nor is a declining stock unsuitable for a portfolio . . . we may buy more!

I realize yesterday’s indicator may not be as helpful in the future and the markets are more complicated than any one factor. I know that company earnings matter.

Through years of experience (and humble pie) I realize the market place will do its best to make the majority of predictions wrong, corrections will not occur when wanted, and they will likely come out of left field when you least expect it. There is truly plenty of information to analyze and filter.

Managing people, their money and emotions can be equally challenging in up or down markets, so it is best to stick to the rules of portfolio management and have some cash available for the inevitable opportunities that will arise. This is what I control.

This summer investors should look under the market’s hood and assess what may

be right to buy. As I write, the sectors that have had small corrections are financials, energy, and healthcare . . . only three of the 11 sectors to consider.

It’s okay to be more conservative now and be more aggressive after a pullback.

Some may consider this a boring strategy, but successful investing is a marathon, not a sprint.

So, relax, exhale, and enjoy a cold beverage!

Quote: “Baseball is a lot like life. It’s a day-to-day existence, full of ups and downs.

You make the most of your opportunities in baseball as you do in life.” ~ Ernie Harwell Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

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Rent today.

Call 519-250-7448 or visit pensketruckrental.com.

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GENERATION YKNOT

Building Dreams And Making An Impact

By Nour Hachem-Fawaz

Over the past 10 years, I have pursued a career leading multiple employment training programs in Windsor Essex. I have worked with industry leaders to recruit the right candidate, and assisted job seekers in landing their dream careers.

What support and advice can I pass on to my fellow millennials and anyone looking for a career? What is the secret ingredient to landing your dream career? It’s simple — hard work!

1. Keep an open mind. It is great to have goals, a plan in place, and a lot of ambition.

However, it is what you are willing to do to get there that will ultimately lead you in the right direction. We all have to start somewhere — in many cases, it is at the bottom — and that is ok. What may seem like a step back could lead you to the opportunity you have been seeking.

2. Market Yourself. The ability to market yourself on paper, online and in person will increase your likelihood of

landing an interview. Learn the role you are seeking, the lingo used in the industry, and research potential markets to target your resume accordingly. Continuously update your resume and fill in the gaps by getting involved, networking and investing in professional development. Make sure to Google yourself — “would you hire you?”

3. Get Involved. There are plenty of organizations seeking your help and, in addition to the intrinsic rewards volunteering provides, there are plenty of advantages to support your career hunt.

You will develop new skills, expand your network, gain experience and boost your “soft skills” (communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem solving and critical thinking. These are the skills most sought after by industry.

4. Build your network. You know the saying “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know and who knows you.” Know your network; this includes family, friends,

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

co-workers, peers, teachers, etc. Tap into their network during your career hunt and book coffee chats. There are plenty of amazing leaders attending networking events hosted in our city every month.

Are you attending these functions? If you are shy, ask someone to join you or reach out to the organizers for some assistance.

Go prepared, meet new people and make sure to follow-up.

5. Invest in YOU. There is always room for growth and improvement. Reflect on your strengths and commit to improving your weaknesses. Attend local workshops hosted by experts and find a mentor who will provide you with advice and guide you in the right direction. Learn from others and be adaptable to change.

In closing, keep this in mind. Windsor allows you to be a big fish in a small pond.

My final piece of advice: Dream it. Believe it. Do it.

Nour Hachem-Fawaz is an Employer Relations, Co-op Coordinator at the University of Windsor. She is passionate about shifting perceptions, inspiring action and is the Producer of the #Becauseits2016 video (re-tweeted by the Prime Minister). She is the “Build A Dream” Chair, an initiative aimed at encouraging young women to pursue careers in Skilled Trades, STEM and law enforcement. You can reach her by email: nourh@uwindsor.ca. Nour is also a member of YKNOT Windsor Essex (Facebook.com/yknotwe).

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EVENT PROFILE

“Kingsville Folk Music Festival” August 11 to 13, 2017

By Dave Hall

Jimmy Rankin hits the stage Saturday night on August 12. Photo courtesy of the artist.

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rganizers of this year’s “Kingsville Folk Music Festival,” have always had a tough act to follow and the 2017 event in Lakeside Park, August 11 to 13, is no exception.

“After our first festival, I thought we’d have a hard time topping that line-up in our second year and I’ve thought that every year since,” says John Law, Co-Producer of the festival with his wife Michele. “After seeing this year’s completed line-up, I’m already worried about next year.”

Headliners over the three days include the Cowboy Junkies (see photo on the front cover), Sylvia Tyson and Jimmy Rankin backed by such high-profile eclectic acts as Harry Manx, Steve Poltz, Trad Attack, Christine Lavin, Harrow Fair, So Long Seven, Pat Temple, Ariana Gillis and Kevin Breit, Turbo Street Funk and many others.

The festival’s local showcase features Francine Leclair, Max Marshall, The Fontaines, Martha Renaud and Denis Bastarache.

The festival is a production of the Sun Parlour Folk Music Society with part of the net proceeds designated for the Music and Youth (MAY) Fund, which provides financial assistance to area youth, allowing them to access to the arts through workshops, lessons, mentoring sessions and an annual scholarship.

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“John and I have been holding concerts to raise funds for youth for years and once we realized how many area youth needed assistance in accessing the arts, we decided to launch a festival to provide even more funding,” Michele remarks. “With our lengthy background in performing at festivals around the world, we felt we were in a great position to know what musicians and fans need from a festival.”

This year’s festival also features a food village, an artisan marketplace, and a family area for children including face painting, Todd Crowley’s musical petting zoo, Jangles the Clown, a pancake breakfast

Michele, left, and John Law, producers of the “Kingsville Folk Music Festival,” at this year’s line-up announcement in mid-June at Pelee Island Winery.

Photo by Dave Hall.

Sylvia Tyson performs at the festival Friday, August 11.

Photo courtesy of the artist/Silvia Pecota.

on the event’s final day, entertainment by Splash’N Boots and music workshops.

“In some ways we’ve been surprised by how successful it’s become in just four years,” states Michele. “On the other hand, we’ve had great support from the community and we knew if we brought in worldclass entertainment, it had a great chance to be successful.”

John notes that in the first couple of

years, “we pulled a lot of favours with musicians we’d met and played with, but now I think the festival itself is the main draw. It’s a gorgeous venue and the musicians seem to love the intimacy of it all.”

It has become a favourite on the Southwestern Ontario festival circuit for lovers of all kinds of music from folk to blues, bluegrass to country and Celtic to roots and indie.

The festival runs from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday August 11, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday August 12, and from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sunday August 13.

Tickets are available at Box Office Video, Merli’s and Anna’s Flowers in Kingsville; Fletcher’s Cleaners in Leamington; Symphony Stables and Guardian Pharmacy in Wheatley and Baha Café and Tony’s One Stop in Chatham.

They are also available on the festival’s website, which features the entertainment line-up and the full weekend schedule: KingsvilleFolkFest.org.

Festival sponsors include Biz X magazine, Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Canadian Heritage, Town of Kingsville, Municipality of Leamington, Best Western Plus, Ontario Arts Council, The Honey Foundation/

Children can catch Splash’N Boots, a Canadian musical duo consisting of Nick Adams and Taes Leavitt on Sunday August 13. Photo courtesy of Treehouse TV.

Windsor Charitable Foundation, Pelee Island Winery, Southpoint Publishing, Bell Media, Unifor Local 444, Circle of 7, South Essex Community Council, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, Unconquered Sun, Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, and Tim Hortons.

NO EXCUSES, JUST HARD WORK.

Amherstburg and Kingsville (519) 564-9046 thegaragegym.net thegaragegym.net@gmail.com

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOR THOUGHT

The Chop Shop Butcher & Smokehouse, 34 Heritage Road, Kingsville

By David Clark

M

aking waves in beautiful downtown Kingsville since October of 2014, a local favourite full service butcher shop and smokehouse has recently been recreated. Today, it is also a thriving “Texas style BBQ to go” destination where premade meals are prepared daily for takeout, hot and ready!

At The Chop Shop Butcher & Smokehouse, Owner/Operator, Tyler Truax required new personnel to be introduced into the business to create really good quality takeout, uncooked entrees and show customers how to properly prepare the meals.

Enter the former part owner of Smokin Aces BBQ and also formerly of BlackJack Gastrovan, John Neill, the new resident Chef at the shop.

He has joined forces with Truax in growing the business. Neill, when with BlackJack won a Biz X Award in 2015 for “The Food Truck Everyone’s Talking About.”

“Meet” Tyler Truax (left) and John Neill, the meat and potato people of the biz.

“The culinary expertise John has brought from the truck and from Smokin Aces, combined with my (meat) smoking knowledge, have blended together wonderfully in all of our recipes,” explains Truax. “We play off each other and strive to continuously create new awesome products for our customers.”

Truax likes to describe this new endeavour as “Good food fast, but not fast food.” “We make

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This NY Strip with grilled pepper and a double stuffed baked potato is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds! How about a little Chop Shop sauce to go with it?

real food for families, homemade, hot and ready to go.”

Some of the fresh and ready Texas BBQ selections, for pickup, include smoked ribs, chicken, brisket and pulled pork. Sides include mac n’ cheese, baked beans, slaw and a host of traditional southern sides.

In store, you may also run into some really awesome burgers — stuffed or not, they sizzle!

Nearby, waiting for your arrival, are chicken pot pies and fresh made meatloaf.

If you require some of the best takeout ever, look into the 90 Day, Dry-Aged, Bone-In, NY Strip with the double stuffed baked potato and grilled pepper. Some of the most popular smoked and ready meals are the Applewood Smoked Pork Back Ribs and the Smoked Chicken with slaw.

Regarding butchered and smoked meats, “This is a full butcher shop and smokehouse at its core,” says Truax. “The Chop Shop offers cuts of beef, pork, lamb, chicken and produces 42 flavours of homemade sausage, cut fresh daily.”

A house specialty, The Chop Shop creates hundreds of pounds of the fresh sausage weekly.

Of course, the smoked and Texas BBQ meats, including the very popular ribs and brisket, keep you coming back. The sides are plentiful.

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Some of the goodies at the counter include stuffed mushrooms, stuffed peppers, stuffed pork tenderloin and cabbage rolls. A side of loaded perogies is also waiting for you. There is also a large selection of gourmet grocery available, including The Chop Shop sauces.

Concerning healthy options, all of the meat is blended with fresh ingredients and many items are fat free, sugar free, and all of the sausage is gluten free.

Whenever possible, The Chop Shop uses locally sourced food products.

They also offer some of the finest cuts of meat available and the best advice on cooking it.

A summer favourite, the Smoked Chicken with coleslaw and blue cheese is light and tangy.

Photos courtesy of El Enns of El Enns Photography.

“We not only go out of our way to be one on one with each and every customer but give them exactly the cuts of meat they want,” states Truax.

“If you want something special, we get it done, it’s just that simple!”

On the road, The Chop Shop will be at the Pelee Island Winery in Kingsville for the annual “Swine and Wine Festival” on August 20. They will compete against other Eat Drink Dine Kingsville members to see who can create the best pork-based dish. Tickets are on sale at: EatDrinkDineKingsville.ca. And next year they will join a local charity for the “Smokemasters BBQ Competition” in Kingsville. More to come!

So if you love all things BBQ keep up to date with The Chop Shop on social media, such as Facebook under “The Chop Shop Fresh Market.”

More information can also be sourced from their website at: ChopShopMkt.ca.

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The Kidney Foundation of Canada Windsor & District Chapter’s 2nd Annual “Celebrity Men Fashion Event”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT S Friday, May 26 at the Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside Drive East, Windsor.

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

1. It was raining men at the “Celebrity Men Fashion Event!” Entering its second year, this event certainly made its mark on the women in the audience, but it was not your typical fashion show.

Models walked down the runway passing out roses, giving hugs and high fives along with toothbrushes from Dr. David C. Mady, Dentist (pictured in tux provided by Collins Formal Wear). Most importantly, over $22,500 was raised for The Kidney Foundation!

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2. Over 180 were in attendance to see the guys strut their stuff including Dr. Wayne Callaghan,

SHOTS

To see even more photos from this event visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X Was There”

a Nephrologist at Windsor Regional Hospital.

Out of the hospital environment this doc proved he has a GQ look in his sleek black suit, also provided by Collins Formal Wear.

3. On the catwalk we find Prodigy MMA Fighter, TJ Laramie who looked cute as a button in an outfit from Stars Men’s Shops. He was the youngest celebrity on the roster.

4. Shawn Talbot (middle), Marketing Director for “Windsor Comedy Festival,” turned model for the night, brought along a few of his friends for moral support — Michael and Penny Primeau, Jeanine Draper, Gerry and Adelina Trottier.

5. Celebrity model Vern Myslichuk, Owner of BetterMade Cabinets is shown before the show with Michelle Dinardo, Eric Myslichuk and Jodi Bennett. The group stands next to the image of the Low-Martin Mansion, now owned by Vern who offers tours of the home to help local charities and also allows events to be held in this spectacular historical Walkerville venue.

6. An appearance by Rhys Trenhaile, a Windsorite who has made it big with a recurring role on ABC’s Designated Survivor TV show, was a highlight of the evening as guests had the opportunity to bid on sitting with him to watch the fashion show.

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Sheryl Best and Belinda Robertson were the two lucky winning ladies who spent the entire evening sitting in luxury and facing centre stage with Trenhaile.

7. Water’s Edge Event Centre Owners Larry Horwitz and his wife Dana were on hand making sure all ran smoothly at the event. The fashion show was preceded by hors d’oeuvres by Koolini Italian Eatery, a cocktail reception and plenty of photo ops for guests were taken in the Biz X Photo Booth — courtesy of DDM. 8. Rakesh Naidu, the Chief Operating Officer for the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation, drummed up a wild session as part of the entertainment for his modelling stint. He is also in fine form thanks to Collins Formal Wear.

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ON THE DDM Photo Booth. . .

ENTERTAINMENT Picture Perfect For All Memories SCENE

By Dave Hall Changing social trends over the past three decades have led a veteran Windsor videographer into a successful new business venture.

Dennis Marentette, who has been shooting videos of weddings and special events for more than 34 years, now operates DDM Photo Booth, a business which he opened five years ago.

“Video shoots were dropping off for a number of reasons,” Marentette indicates.

“Destination weddings are getting bigger, weddings are getting more casual, people’s tastes are changing and more people want instant gratification. They don’t want to wait to see their photos or their videos and photo booths allow them to see their photos immediately after they are taken.”

Marentette also comments that colleagues in Michigan’s video business sector encouraged him to add photo booths to his series of business options.

“It’s been growing for a few years and it seemed to be the right time to switch,” says Marentette, who still shoots videos.

“It seems to have been the right decision

because business has been going very well.”

In a photo booth experience, clients and guests at an event select from a variety of props and pose for pictures taken in the photo booth. Finished products are available immediately for posting on Facebook or Twitter and others are available for uploading following the event.

Marentette also posts highlight reels of every event on: DDMphotobooth.com.

Soon he is also launching a selfie booth which allows individuals to take their own photos with a variety of props.

His photo booth is an open-air booth, rather than enclosed, which allows people to see what’s happening and that generates even more activity during the event.

“I’ve had people tell me they’ve never had so much fun posing for photos,” Marentette comments.

He adds, “I’ve also enjoyed the challenge of doing something different. It has also allowed us to create a much stronger online presence, which is a basic necessity for any business these days.”

DDM brings the party to your event — hats to clown around with, signs, masks, and more, are there to make your photos extra fun. Photo by Rod Denis.

Marentette’s daughter, Chantale Marentette, helps her father stay current when it comes to photo booth business trends and his web developer, San Francisco-based Tyler Lesperance, works on the technical side of the business.

To see Marentette at work, check out a highlight video (BizXmagazine.com/ kidney-foundation-fashion-event) of guests at The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter’s “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” who enjoyed posing for some photos in the Biz X Photo Booth — courtesy of DDM. The DDM Photo Booth is available for weddings, parties, corporate events, galas, sidewalk sales and anniversaries.

DA PA RTS TR CH A ICI A S MPION OOLE Y

Find an Attended Donation Centre near you.

Visit www.goodwillekl.com

I♥ CANADA

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

The Buskers Are Back And Celebrating Pride In August

By Joe McParland

I

t’s been a busy year so far for us at Biz X magazine, celebrating our 20th year of publishing, while also covering the many events marking the 125th birthday of our City and the 150th birthday of our Country.

The weekend of August 11, 12 & 13 is turning out to be just as jam-packed. No less than five major events are set to take place in Windsor and Essex County that weekend — all Biz X sponsored events: “Windsor ComiCon,” “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest,” “Kingsville Folk Music Festival,” “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest,” and the “LiUNA 625 Walkerville Buskerfest.”

The latter two events are the subject of this article (for the other events listed see various pages in this issue and for even more things to do check pages 16 & 17).

Also during the Walkerville event you can see the Canadian Silver Starlets, an all female aerial acrobatics show full of glam, glitz and glitter. Photo courtesy of David DiUbaldo.

The “LiUNA 625 Walkerville Buskerfest” presented by the Willistead Restaurant enters its second year, after a highly successful debut in 2016. Performers from Australia, the UK and across Canada, converge on Wyandotte Street East in Windsor to delight and amaze audiences.

The 2017 edition of the Buskerfest features interactive fun provided by the new Windsor Circus School, a huge chalk mural and the Jr. F.I.R.E. Challenge obstacle course.

Lots of patios providing goodies and music stages ensure the excitement never ends. Visit the Busker Hall of Fame and enjoy late night shows at the Walkerville Brewery.

“We’ve got our work cut out for us to top last year!” exclaims Mark Lefebvre, festival Executive Director. And Walkerville is a picture perfect setting.”

Kyle Sipkens, the festival’s new Artistic Director, agrees: “Walkerville is already a thriving entertainment destination with incredible patios, unique businesses, and a keen focus on supporting local.”

You may recognize Mark and Kyle’s names — or at least their faces. They’re usually 9’ tall and appear as the Stilt Guys at many festivals and events throughout Windsor Essex, Ontario and they travel the world.

As professional Buskers themselves, they’re thrilled to be the producers of Windsor’s own Buskerfest. They’re also connected to the Windsor Circus School in the old YMCA location on Victoria Avenue. Aspiring buskers now have a great facility to develop their talents and, during the weekend, young audience members are able to kick-start their Busker career at workshops conducted by the new school.

Getting back to the festival details, Wyandotte Street East will close between Devonshire Road and Lincoln Road for this year’s nine world class performers. There is no admission charge for the street acts, but the performers rely on the generosity of spectators when they pass the hat.

For full biographies of the performers, event locations, times and other associated information check out: WalkervilleBuskers.com.

Moving onto the second profiled event, since 1992 when the LGBTTQ community hosted their first Pride festival in Windsor, this Ontario non-profit organization has grown into one of the most influential festivals in this region.

As found on their Facebook page, “The Windsor-Essex Pride Fest aims to promote equality and diversity through all of its campaigns including its annual Pride festival.

The weekend Pride festival uses theatre, music, art and entertainment to raise awareness of LGBTTQ issues.”

According to David Lenz, “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” President, “Our past 25 years has seen a strengthening of both our community and the region overall. Today, we are poised to act as a catalyst for further change for an even better future by building social connections though our year-round initiatives.”

This growth is evidenced by their yearly publication “Come Out & Play Guide,” the official LGBTTQ directory; “Diversity Means” Program (as expressed through art, photography and poetry); comedy shows; the summertime “Spritz Boat Cruise,” wine tours and other events throughout the year.

After the “Pride Festival” outgrew the comfy confines of Charles Clark Square in 2006, it moved to the Riverfront Festival Plaza in 2007 and has remained there since.

Now, the “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” is nearly B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

At the “LiUNA 625 Walkerville Buskerfest” watch for Rueben DotDotDot, an Australian Busker who defies gravity with acrobatic stunts and balances like spinning one-handed 20 feet up in the air. Photo courtesy of Frank Kruller.

a week long celebration, kick-started this year on Wednesday August 9 at 11 a.m. with the raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall by the Mayor. A yearly favourite of this week is free bowling for everyone on Thursday night — gay and straight (families, allies etc) — at Rose Bowl Lanes; Friday night features the “Glitter Ball” at The Rondo at 63 Pitt Street East. And this year some of the LGBTTQ community are introducing lawn bowling for the first time as an event, at Jackson Park.

Each year thousands attend the “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” activities to show their support of the LGBTTQ community. Photo courtesy of “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest.”

Things shift into high gear on Saturday August 12 when the community hosts their annual dance and entertainment show featuring both local and out of town talent, and world class DJs. Dozens of vendors set up to sell their wares and, of course, plenty of food and drinks are available.

On Sunday August 13, the traditional parade begins at 11 a.m. at Elliott and Ouellette and proceeds north on Ouellette Avenue to the Riverfront Festival Plaza where ceremonies will ensue, followed by an afternoon of revelry, great grub and beverages.

Details of these and other “Pride Fest” events can be found at: WEpridefest.com.

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D

Herbie Herbert: “The Band Whisperer”

By Lori Baldassi

o you enjoy watching those big video screens and those amazing light shows when you see, hmm . . . say, Lady Gaga and Madonna? Were you impressed with the production of those huge shows like The Who and Michael Jackson? Then thank Herbie Herbert and his crew at Nocturne Productions (sold in 2011 to a Canadian company who do all the Cirque Du Soleil shows) who created the screens for the touring companies to support the shows and, oh yeah, one time manager of Santana, Journey and a number of other acts.

Just read this excerpt from Steve Perry’s 2017 April speech at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction (YouTube.com/watch?v=ar9t6uEbr7U) . . .

“Somehow one of my demo tapes fell into the hands of Herbie Herbert and the next thing I knew, because of Herbie, I was writing music with Neal Schon. The very first song we wrote was ‘Patiently’. I must absolutely tell you that I must thank Herbie Herbert for believing in me.”

You might say Herbie Herbert is the “band whisperer” but I call him the “BRAND whisperer.”

Before Journey played a note, Herbie Herbert had a vision, a concept, a plan and a goal. The road ahead had been carefully constructed to not only hit the pinnacle of the charts, but to have sustainability to last through the changes of the music industry.

Herbie is my kind of interview, the unvarnished truth. An F bomb here and there (appropriately so), some laughing, but always on point and — unlike many who have written about him before me — no bitterness of the past, the present or the future. He walked away when he saw the landscape of the industry change with hip hop R&B that left rock not in the fast lane, but the last lane.

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Herbie Herbert

Photo courtesy of the artist.

MAKING A SOUND LIVING

Here is the first part of my Q&A interview with Herbie Herbert (HH).

Biz X: What was your primary goal as Manager?

HH: I had to be a true fan. I considered my artists’ music my music too. I just wanted to manage with the same adeptness that Neal Schon (Journey) played his guitar. With the same level of expertise that made it look easy, even though it is hugely difficult. There are three important things you have to do as management. First, manifest and create opportunities. Secondly, you must generate a yield from these opportunities and make money, Third, do a better job at one and two.

Biz X: What is the reality of being a Manager?

HH: I would prefer being just a fan, it’s easy,

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it’s fun! Being an unrelenting critic is NOT fun and to do it with anybody and have them not take it personally is hard. The truth is you really love these people. I really loved my clients deeply and only wanted the best for them and wanted to do it in the most honest way. Having acknowledgement and gratitude are wonderful, but don’t count on it when you’re a Manager — this is not the business for that. It is, and always has been, something that has to be completely selffulfilling in and of itself. This is what you want to do, whether its ever recognized and accepted, appreciated or whatever. You just have to keep your eye on the prize and be so unrelentingly positive in that way. You have to have such laser focus on the prize.

Or if you pause to reflect, it is perfectly fine to have a negative opinion professionally

even though you push forward in the most positive way you can. It’s a rough road to hoe. I never ever came in and said “hey, I have The Beatles here.” I created the opportunity to get them heard.

Biz X: Getting a record moving in radio used to work how?

HH: The art form of conducting the symphony that it takes to get a record to #1.You have to have everything happen in that precise and concise time period and outcompete all the other records in the marketplace. All of those things have to occur and you’ve got to do it better than anyone else to go #1 in that particular market. Then you go coast to coast and border to border. You wind up #1 on Billboard. It’s the hardest thing on earth to do and the height of entrepreneurialism that was the ultimate challenge, and it took me forever to learn how to do it.

Biz X: What were the first signs the format for rock was over?

HH: Radio has gone through such changes.

At one point I knew every call letter of every radio station in North America, every Program Director (PD), every Music Director. Then this lady PD in San Francisco came in and changed everything.

She started to play more and more urban.

Urban started to ferment and took off like a monster robot. It moved rock out and made a tsunami of money mostly happening in ‘91. I saw the handwriting on the wall — this format is OVER. The only real #1 record, in terms of over the counter sales and airplay at that time, was Mr. Big, “To Be With You” — my last #1. The landscape changing was going in the urban direction. It was at Van Halen’s managers wake, that I made the announcement that I’m out of the business and retiring. It’s a different game, and it was getting really, really hard. You only book acts when they’re huge. I could see that going to happen less and less, and predicted the end of Premier Agency who had every act on earth. It’s over and it was.

Biz X: Tell me about the beginning of your Managing career?

HH: I had a profound philosophy about that the whole time. I came and started a total fan in the trenches in the mosh pit so to speak, way before there were mosh pits. I never spent 10 minutes backstage at the Journey shows. I was always out front in the audience. Completely engrossed in that experience and trying to understand — what that’s about? My feeling was that

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

anybody in the business their opinion was absolutely secondary, especially, media, radio whatever. The opinions that matter are the people and they are voting with their wallets. The fact of the matter is they (media, record labels, radio) are much more likely to be out of touch and the audiences spending their money are never wrong. The first time that I’m uncomfortable — and I don’t get it and I feel a little out of step of the audience — those are the beginning signs of me entering stage 4.

Look to Biz X in the September issue for Part 2 of this interview. Find out Herbie Herbert’s “4 stages of Herbie Herbert’s fine, fine, super fine career advice on Record Business Dementia” (his words); his advice for up and coming artists, branding, touring life, management deals; his thoughts on Journey on the road in the day and more.

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

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STORIES TO MAKE YOU SMILE

“Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This” . . .

By Louise Gagne

A

s Blair Gagne worked alone in her office on Victoria Day 2017 with an empty parking lot in view, she was having a bad day. With urgent work deadlines, allergies, and her wedding days away, she was overwhelmed.

So the last thing she wanted to do that evening was to go out. Her fiancé Rick Vaz and his daughter Sabrina Vaz convinced her that she had to go with them to somewhere important.

Keeping the suspense, they went near Gagne’s old neighbourhood. They stopped at a house where a young woman was waiting with a bouquet of flowers.

She looked familiar, but they had never met. Yet, they knew each other to the core.

And that’s when the tears started flowing.

Her name was Maria Giron, 32, and she had come a long, long way —distance wise and from the past, to surprise Gagne to be there for her wedding day.

Gagne, 31, “virtually” met Giron some 20 years ago in a Backstreet Boys Yahoo! chat room back when the Internet was in its infancy. Giron is from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The “pen pals” shared common interests of music, similar ages, and girl talk. It went from chatting, to letters, to cards, to phone calls. In the beginning, Giron even made Gagne an audio cassette of herself singing the Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams Are Made of This” so she could hear her voice.

When the four of them came over to Gagne’s childhood home, Giron met Gagne’s parents and had a tour of Blair’s bedroom. Then Gagne pulled out a storage box that was overflowing with a collection of internationally stamped letters, cards and pictures that were kept like a treasure.

The big day is finally here! From left: Bridesmaids Jennifer Aquino, Samantha Vaz, Morgan Dollar, Blair Gagne (bride), Sabrina Vaz, Krysta Golanch and Maria Giron with flower girl Sierra Pinto Williamson. Photo courtesy of SignatureDesignPhotography.com

Little pieces of art work. A pair of socks as a gift. Tokens of friendship.

As the family talked, it seemed like a no brainer to have Giron stand up in the wedding party as a bridesmaid. As fate would have it, there was an extra usher from a missing bridesmaid who had dropped out of the wedding party earlier.

“At that time, I was okay with an uneven number in my bridal party,” Gagne said.

“I only wanted to fill the spot with someone special — not just anybody.”

The next day Jenn Aquino, the maid of honour, made some phone calls to bridal salons in search of a matching dress for Giron. Finally, a bridal salon did have one matching sample dress in the exact style and

2017 Biz X Awards Nominations now open!

NOMINATIONS OPEN UNTIL NOON SEPT. 12, 2017 AT

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

colour on the rack. And as kismet would have it, when Giron went to try the dress on, it was a perfect fit!

Giron said: “I always thought I would meet Blair on her wedding day. I don’t know why, I just did.”

For Gagne, meeting Giron was always on her bucket list. The closest she came was when she went to the Azores in 2014 and Giron was in France, but the logistics never worked out.

“She is such a positive person,” Gagne comments about Giron.

Giron jokes about how she would talk about “her friend Blair” to others, yet she had never met her.

“Likes” started to explode on Gagne’s

Facebook page about the two finally meeting by those people who remembered her talking about Giron all those years.

There was never a shortage of conversation during the time the two women spent together. Whether sharing a meal or laughing over a Bubble Tea, the two recalled memories of past events and people that were all too familiar to them. Like giddy school girls, the women sang together as Rick strummed along with his guitar at his home.

Two days after meeting, Gagne and Giron, along with the bridesmaids, were all getting manicures and pedicures for the wedding.

Three days later, the rehearsal and dinner together; and five days later, the big day; May 27, 2017.

Giron remarked that she never imagined she would be in the wedding party, but just be a guest on the sidelines. From start to finish, though, the day was spent by each other’s side starting with getting ready at the Best Western Plus, then a limo ride to Banwell Church for the ceremony, a photo shoot at the Peace Fountain, and then to the Ciociaro Club to celebrate.

Giron’s speech at the wedding, in her native accent, said it all . . .

“Hello. My name is Maria and if you’ve noticed I have a little accent it’s because

Meeting for the first time were pen pals Blair Gagne (left) and Maria Giron. Photo courtesy of Sabrina Vaz.

I’m not from around here. I’m here tonight because of the Backstreet Boys. Pre-teenage fanaticism got me here. The love of writing.

The feeling of being heard and listened. Of exchange. Of friendship.

My story with Blair began over 20 years ago. Letters started travelling from one end of the continent to the other, from Canada

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

to Argentina and all over again. Snail-mail.

Cassette tapes. Long distance phone calls.

Scheduled chats on ICQ and MSN. We went through high school together. We got our university degrees and first jobs. We fell in love again. And again, out of love.

We shared vacations, birthdays and dreams all through words, countless e-mails written over the years. Always apologizing to each other when we took too long to write back. But, in the end we always did.

Another e-mail, addressed to Blair’s new family, Rick and Sabrina Vaz is what finally allowed me to be here tonight.

Blair, I love you with all my heart, I am so happy we finally met. I would like to finish with an email from Blair in 2014: ‘Rick and I have been having a blast enjoying each other’s company and getting to know each other more and more. He treats me like a princess.

I asked the universe for a mature man, with life experience to come into my life, and there he came’. ” As the women parted after several embraces, Gagne said: “I don’t feel sad. My heart is full. I will just say: So long till we meet again. See ya!” as she waved to Giron as she walked up the steps.

Giron agreed. If their friendship has lasted 20 years, there was no need to worry about the future of it.

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FEATURE STORY

Heroes Unite!

Building A Pop Culture Experience Local Businesses Support “Windsor ComiCon”

S

ince its inception in 2015, “Windsor ComiCon” has grown by leaps and bounds to provide the finest pop-culture experience for fans of all ages and beyond throughout Windsor and Essex County.

With the third instalment just around the corner, a new leadership has taken over with a goal of continuing to grow the convention for years to come.

Colin Douglas — a long time collector of comic books and action figures — is known in the fan community as the promoter behind “TFcon” (TFcon.ca), the world’s largest fan-run Transformers convention held annually for the last 16 years in Mississauga, Ontario. He acquired the rights and ownership of “Windsor ComiCon” through Past President Steve Menzie.

Douglas’ passion for all things geek also resulted in the creation of “Ontario Collectors Con” (OntarioCollectorsCon.com) and the “’80’s Toy Expo” he produces every year, which also gives fans a place to find rare and imported toys, comics and collectibles. This provides a unique blend of experience and know-how to take the reins of “Windsor ComiCon.” “I am thrilled to continue to get to know the communities in the area and am extremely excited to be able to provide what will be a fantastic event for the fans in Windsor and Essex County,” says Douglas.

In between the transition of leadership, local Windsorite Jeremy Renaud has stayed on as the show’s Marketing, Sponsorship and Public Relations Coordinator.

“It’s been a wonderful transition and we have a great team,” Renaud states. “Colin has also given me the opportunity to try new things and engage local businesses in the community.”

Together, the team, along with a dedicated crew of 10 key volunteers, has engaged over 20 new corporate sponsors and community partners as well as a new beneficiary in the area, utilizing a mix of strategies and tactics more common to the realm of sport.

“We are thrilled to engage the local business community who are helping us reach our target audience,” declares Douglas.

At the helm of local businesses in support of “Windsor ComiCon” is its newly

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Windsor’s Rachel Petersen aka RayGrey Cosplay as Venom Mary Jane with her husband Dan Petersen as Venom SpiderMan. RayGrey serves as head Cosplayer and Coordinator for the Cosplay Competition at “Windsor ComiCon” this August. Photo courtesy of Dream Land Photography

found presenting sponsor, Cartoon Kingdom.

Locally owned, Cartoon Kingdom (CartoonKingdom.ca; 2001 Provincial Road. behind Silver City) is a 19 year old boutique store featuring a wide range of licenced collectibles, which span across all genres, including, but not limited to, superhero, pop culture, film and television-related fandom.

“Windsor ComiCon is a show on a scale unlike any other in the Windsor Essex area,” remarks Co-Owner Nat St. Pierre. “We liked the idea of having a partnership in ensuring this is a great event that stays successful for years to come. The ComiCon demographic directly matches who our products are geared towards and being involved helps us show people what Cartoon Kingdom is all about.”

Cartoon Kingdom plans to feature a variety of toys, collectibles, novelties and home items B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

at “Windsor ComiCon” this summer. There is literally something for everyone.

“We believe in the team involved in organizing ‘Windsor ComiCon,’ so much so, that we did not hesitate in pledging our support as the presenting sponsor,” states Co-Owner Arlen Mifflin. “Colin and his team are putting on a show that is truly built around the fan experience and we couldn’t be more excited to be involved.”

Moving forward into the Con’s first-ever experiential program that will yield a festival like atmosphere around non-traditional show hours, the team has collaborated with The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) (DowntownWindsor.ca; 419 Pelissier Street, Windsor).

The DWBIA advocates for continuous improvement, promotes sustainable growth, cultivates and protects the uniqueness and

creative spirit within our city centre. As a proponent for downtown revitalization, the DWBIA strives to create and nurture a downtown that defines the character of the Windsor region and actively works to invest in amenities that people want, need and use.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Con and we’re lining up a suite of opportunities that supports local business and engages families,” indicates DWBIA Executive Director Debi Croucher.

“The Con will spur numerous opportunities for secondary and tertiary business.”

The DWBIA serves its membership by ensuring the long-term vitality of Downtown Windsor, through advocacy, economic development, business recruitment and retention, innovative marketing, and beautification and safety initiatives. It believes “Windsor ComiCon” brings an influx of people into the city centre and encourages the support of downtown merchants through this innovative, fun and exciting event.

Stay tuned for more exciting news as the DWBIA activates on-site programming with downtown local businesses through the “Night of Heroes” and “ComiCon After Dark Party” events, to name just a few.

Also located in the downtown core, Rogues Gallery Comics (RGcomics.com; 327 Chatham Street West, Windsor), which is owned and operated by local Windsorite Shawn Cousineau continues to be a strong pillar in the “Windsor ComiCon” community by providing support and promotion since its inception in 2015.

In 2017, however, Rogues showcases a strong presence in both its promotional area on the exhibitor floor along with integration of its staff in a variety of panels.

Furthermore, utilizing the show as an opportunity to increase its profile, while building a new and strong client list, comic fans of all ages were thrilled to learn of Rogues’ presentation of Deadpool Co-creator Fabian Nicieza.

“At Rogues, we are absolutely thrilled to be a part of this event,” says Cousineau. “It gives us an unique opportunity to showcase our wide variety of comics, toys and games and our store is literally footsteps away from Caesars Windsor as well.”

Just outside the downtown core, heading east and offering friendly helpful service and a welcoming atmosphere, is Rex & Co. Jewelry and Pawn (302 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor).

Rex & Co. Jewelry and Pawn is owned and operated by Holly Qin and Quy Tran. It is a vibrant collective shop where people can find almost anything they imagine; from jewellery, toys, electronics, both new and retro games, to the most unique items.

“We are excited to be a part of the event,” Tran comments. “It gives us an opportunity to expose our brand and store offerings to a whole new community of people who are looking for great products at an exceptional price.”

Rex & Co. Jewelry and Pawn has provided

support in both presentation of WWE Hall of Fame wrestling superstar Jake “The Snake” Roberts, as well as the provision of unique items to support a variety of contests.

“Rex & Co. is very proud to be a part of Windsor and anytime we can be a part of something that brings people into our beautiful city, I jump at the chance to show people how great Windsor is and how we are willing to be part of this community,” adds Tran. “Come to ComiCon where fantasy becomes reality.”

As lifelong comic book fans, MoonJump Video Productions (MoonJump.ca; 624 Chilver Road, Windsor) in the heart of Walkerville, is managed by Owner and Production Director Jendo Shabo and partner Stiven Agoubi. The company joined “Windsor ComiCon” to help make it the best event possible by offering exceptional video services.

“We’re thrilled that ‘Windsor ComiCon’” is back,” Shabo states. “Every year seems to be bigger and better than the last, and we couldn’t be happier to be part of the team. Our goal is to build new relationships with fellow corporate partners while getting to know the local comicloving community.”

MoonJump is a full service video production company whose sole purpose is to provide premium video services at affordable rates. They make it easy to show off your brand or business with unique, stylish videos, custom made to suit your brand image.

MoonJump has already produced pre-show movie trailers and promotional videos for “Windsor ComiCon,” which appear at Imagine Cinemas and The Colosseum inside Caesars Windsor (pre-concert) on top of social media and has developed commercials to air later in July on CTV Windsor during prime time hours.

Heading further east, The Game MD (TheGameMD.com; 2-5452 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor) is one of Windsor’s best local sources for video games (both new and old) as well as the latest pop culture collectibles.

At the helm of this gaming paradise, Owner Roy Mclean took the opportunity to be a part of the fun Windsor pop culture community get together.

“It gives us the opportunity to both share and showcase a taste of the products and services we offer and we are hoping to expand on our ever growing customer base to those who might not be aware of us yet,” Mclean explains. “‘Windsor ComiCon’ is a great way for our local business to engage on a 1-1 basis with pop culture fans of all ages, in a fun interactive way. It also gives us a chance to see some of our regular customers in Cosplay — can’t wait!”

As the newest partner, Sutherland (SutherlandGlobal.com) has joined “Windsor ComiCon” in the hopes of connecting with some great potential employees.

As a process transformation company, Sutherland rethinks and rebuilds processes for B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 7

Celeb photos courtesy of “Windsor ComiCon.” Billy Dee Williams, Star Wars, Batman, Lego Batman

Johnny Yong Bosch, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers

Garrett Wang, Star Trek: Voyager

Jake “The Snake” Roberts, WWE Legend

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the digital age by combining the speed and insight of design thinking with the scale and accuracy of data analytics. They’ve been helping customers, across industries from financial services to health care, achieve greater agility through transformed and automated customer experiences, for over 30 years.

Headquartered in Rochester, N.Y., Sutherland employs thousands of professionals spanning 19 countries around the world.

As a leading employer in Windsor, Sutherland is always looking for fun, diverse, talented, members of the community to join the family. “Windsor ComiCon” is the perfect opportunity for our recruiting team to meet potential employees and to share their career opportunities with the community.

In addition to the above, several other local businesses and related entities have come to the table, including, but not limited to, Avenue Pawnbrokers Ltd., Bell Media (AM800 CKLW and CTV Windsor), Caesars Windsor, David Jacob Duke Creative Studio, Festival Tent, Game Cycle 2, Imagine Cinemas, Paper Heroes, The CG Realm, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island and WindsoriteDOTca. Last, but certainly not least, Biz X magazine supports “Windsor ComiCon” yet again by promoting the event through its extensive reach in the border city region with its print and digital issues, plus posts on their website: BizXmagazine.com.

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ABOUT “WINDSOR COMICON”

As an all-ages accessible event, there is tons of fun for everyone!

Celebrity Guests: Billy Dee Williams, (see front cover photo) Star Wars, Batman and Lego Batman; Jake “The Snake” Roberts, WWE Hall of Fame Wrestling Superstar; Johnny Yong Bosch, Power Rangers; Garrett Wang, (see front cover photo) Star Trek Voyager; Angus MacInnes, Star Wars; Kenny Hotz and Spencer Rice, Kenny vs. Spenny and more to be announced!

Artists and Writers: Fabian Nicieza, Deadpool, New Mutants, Alpha Flight, Classic X-Men and X-Force; Arvell Jones, Marvel Premiere and All Star Squadron; Tony Gray, The Incredible Conduit; Johnny D, Vampirella, Wonder Woman and The Sovereigns.

Featuring: 501st Legion, Star Wars Costume Group; RayGrey Cosplay; “Night of Heroes”; and “ComiCon After Dark Party.”

Plus: Comics, Artist Alley, T-Shirts & Collectibles, Autographs and Photographs, Cosplay and Costume Contest, Table Top and Retro Gaming, Question and Answer (Q & A) Panels and Programming, Kids Zone: With Superheroes, Art and Crafts and Face Painting.

Location And Tickets: “Windsor ComiCon” takes place inside The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor on Saturday, August 12 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Sunday, August 13 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Adult passes start at $20. Children under six years old receive free admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Purchase tickets at: WindsorComicon.com.

Official Beneficiary: A portion of proceeds go to the Kiwanis Club of Windsor (Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp). The Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp is excited to be the Official Beneficiary of the “Windsor ComiCon” presented by Cartoon Kingdom. For 65 years, the organization has and continues to strive to provide all children, especially those in need, with the best week of their summer. The addition of Super Hero and ComiCon related activities for 2017 make the overall experience even better. “We can’t thank ‘Windsor ComiCon’ and Cartoon Kingdom enough for their support!” stresses Club President Dan Inverarity.

Register your child for camp: KiwanisSunshinePointCamp.com.

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CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT

Vision Drives Entrepreneurship

By Arthur Barbut

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ne of the definitions of vision, as described by the MerriamWebster dictionary, is “the act or power of imagination.”

The greatest entrepreneurial success stories are founded in the vision of their founders and cofounders. Walt Disney told his crew to “build the castle first,” because he understood that vision would drive his team to successfully complete the project.

Recently, the Accelerator hosted its 9th bi-annual “Windsor Women Accelerate” (WWA) event and the Keynote Speaker was Chantal Vallee, Head Coach of the University of Windsor Lancers women’s basketball team.

In the past seven seasons, Chantal has received 19 “Coach of the Year” Awards, produced four Canadian National Team members, and one Olympian, won six provincial and five national titles, and maintained a winning percentage of 94%. This is an incredible track record and it all started with a vision.

To quote Vallee: “Vision is the most important thing to be successful.”

At the event Vallee had an opportunity to share her winning mentality with an audience of female entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs from our region. The goal of the event is to provide women entrepreneurs and aspiring women entrepreneurs with the motivation, inspiration and network to help them create their ideal future.

Vision is the energy which drives entrepreneurs and shapes the culture of the organization. Having the right

vision for regional entrepreneurship and it is best described by their maxim — “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

Over the past six years this vision has created an incredible culture of success with Accelerator members winning “New Business of the Year” Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce “Business of Excellence” Awards for the past two consecutive years.

Pictured at the summer WWA networking event are: Deanna Fougere (WWA committee member), Arthur Barbut and Keynote Speaker Chantal Vallee (right).

Photo courtesy of Siddique Sheikh.

vision creates a powerful culture that ultimately translates into a competitive advantage and ensures long-term success.

Some great examples of visionaries are Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey and Elon Musk.

One of my favourite quotes from Oprah is, “Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe.”

The only limitations are the ones that we set up for ourselves. Hosting events such as the “Windsor Women Accelerate” networking series and bringing inspirational speakers such as Chantal Vallee is changing the way we perceive what is possible.

This is especially important for female entrepreneurs who have not traditionally been encouraged to take the leap and embrace entrepreneurship as a career.

The Accelerator has created a

WWA Event Emcee Bianca Rivera (right) of Rivera Building Maintenance (Accelerator tenant) with Chantal Vallee. Photo by Arthur Barbut.

It has not been an easy journey, but we must always keep in mind that creating anything that has value and stands the test of time is by its nature challenging.

As Tony Hsieh correctly pointed out: “Chase the vision, not the money. The money will end up following you.”

For more information regarding the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator, 720 Ouellette Avenue and how you can become a positive contributor to the region’s entrepreneurs, please contact Managing Director, Arthur Barbut by emailing: Arthur@downtownaccelerator.com.

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from the bookshelf

A Paranormal Adventure For Teens And A Take Me To The Beach Novel

By Marlene Markham-Gay

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rab some sunscreen and get ready for some great reading in the sun! Local author Sharon Ledwith has written the first book for young adults — “Lost & Found” — in her new series “Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls.”

When not writing, Ledwith loves to spend time with her hubby, one spoiled yellow Labrador and a moody calico cat.

This love of pets is found in the content of “Lost & Found,” which is perfect for our “ Wo o f a ~R o o ” edition!

Whiskey, an old calico cat at the Fairy Falls animal shelter, must find a new human pack leader to save the shelter. With the help of Nobel, the leader of the shelter dogs, they use an old skill of telepathy to communicate with humans.

When Megan comes to live with her aunt and is given community service hours for stealing, she must fulfil them at the animal shelter.

It’s not long before the shelter animal residents realize she can understand what they are saying.

Megan helps them save the shelter that is having big money problems. They set out on an adventure with the help of friends, Reid and Natalie, to save the shelter and all the animals. Danger, suspense and intrigue await them as they find out there are people who want to destroy the shelter.

“Lost & Found” follows Ledwith’s “The Last Timekeepers,” a time travel series for young adults and can be purchased online at: Mirror-World-Publishing.myshopify.com and in Windsor by visiting: PB Books, 3947 Tecumseh Road East; Storytellers Bookstore, 1473 Ottawa Street and Juniper Books, 1990 Ottawa Street.

Next up is Windsor author, Jenn Sadai,

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known for her self-help memoirs, “Cottage Cheese Thighs,” “Dirty Secrets of The World’s Worst Employee” and “Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman” has released her first fiction novel, “Her Own Hero.”

Sadai hopes that it will be the first in a collection of empowering stories of survival.

As an advocate for rights for women, Sadai uses her talents and life experiences to inspire anyone struggling with similar challenges.

The main character of “Her Own Hero” is Samantha Tilson, a Vegas showgirl who is trying to keep her life together and usually depends on her feminine assets and sex appeal to survive.

A Spanish man who has swept her off her feet seems to be the answer to her dreams!

However, her aspirations soon dwindle when she realizes her involvement is more than a love affair with a handsome man — she is now in trouble with the law!

Murder, corruption and run for your life action keeps you turning the pages.

Samantha’s determination and street smarts give her the edge she needs to survive.

Sadai writes, “I used to wish for Prince Charming to rush in and save me. My life is now better than I ever imagined, and it wasn’t a man that created this beautiful new world; I did.”

You can purchase “Her Own Hero” to slip into your suitcase or beach bag this summer, at Storytellers Books, 1473 Ottawa Street or online: JennSadai.com Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at the Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books. Marlene is an avid reader and encourages her eight grandchildren to read.

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THE WAY IT WAS

Three French Brothers Rally To The Colours

By Andrea Grimes

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t 101 years of age, Eugene yours. Louise must have grown Robinet had to be the plenty since I last saw her. oldest WWII Essex Scottish I still can’t imagine her going veteran in Windsor and Essex to school. I was just thinking County. Robinet passed away how changed everything is in Windsor on September 9, going to be when we get back 2016. home.

Isobelle married, The Robinet brothers, Gabrial going to school, Henri Eugene, Albert and Remi, working, about five or six did their bit for King and nephews and nieces whom Country. Eugene and Albert I haven’t even seen yet. One, enlisted with the Essex maybe two, brothers-in-law Scottish as cooks. whom I’ve never seen. Why, Both were slated to ship out by the time I get home, Henri for France in August 1942, might even be in uniform. I’m however; at the last minute, sorry to say that your pencils they were pulled from going sent in February must have out with the troops as they gone down. You sent it the were needed to man the same time as mother sent our messes. The rest is history. cigarettes. And none of us got According to Lucille Canzi WWII Veterans, brothers (from left): Eugene, Remi and Albert Robinet. Photo courtesy of Lucille either cigarettes or pencils in (Eugene Robinet’s niece), Canzi from the Windsor Daily Star, c 1943.

March. Well I have to work “The third brother Remi was make Canada Bread jealous. I’d send you on my note book to get it up to too young to enlist. He was very creative the recipe only I don’t think you could get date so I’ll have to close now and say thanks with his birth certificate and made his way the ingredients and 100 men to eat it after for the parcel anyway. to the Kent Regiment. Like many young it was baked. You can’t get margarine or Your loving brother, Remi. xxxxxxx. soldiers away from home for the first time in N.A.A.F.I. baking powder. They are going to P.S. Don’t forget how to make those pies. their lives, Remi wrote about many everyday pick 23 men out of the 80 of us to send on a I’ll be wanting some when I get home.” things to help ease the pain of separation scheme. I sure hope I’m not picked. It might Canzi adds, “At the age of 23, Remi and loneliness.” mean leaving the Essex Scots and I couldn’t enlisted with the Essex Scottish Regiment In his letter dated October 1, 1943 do that after Bert gave up his stripes so that (R.C.I.C.). It was in France that he took a Remi wrote . . . he could stay with us. I suppose that by now direct hit to the head and fell at the age of “Hi Sis, you know that Bert has reverted. He was the 24 on July 29, 1944. He is buried in How’s everything with you? I am getting last N.C.O. to get his hooks and when the new Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery along fine. You were asking if I did anything war establishment came in calling for three, in Calvados, France.” about getting a job where we got only the instead of four N.C.Os, he had to give them In August 2017, the Essex and Kent Scottish seat of my pants dirty. Well, Bert finally got up or go to the baking unit. While I’m on this (EKSCOT.org) will return to Dieppe, France me a course. I’m on it now, and I’m doing course, I’m going to try to learn to make a to honour the Regiment’s fallen of August 19, ok. I made a sponge cake today that would lemon meringue pie like you do. I really miss 1942. Their names will liveth for evermore.

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OF THE MONTH

Story And Photo By Dave Hall

Target Building Materials . . .

50 Years Of Hitting The Bull’s-Eye

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ifty years after opening a It was largely through this small store at the Roundhouse product diversity and the Centre property on Howard company’s history that it was Avenue, Target Building able to fight off a legal challenge Materials is still supplying from the Target Corporation specialty construction products when the U.S.-based company to builders and consumers across was preparing for its ill-fated Essex County. decision to enter the Canadian Founded by Moe Drouillard retail sector. and now run by his son Greg “We received a letter from Drouillard, Target moved to its Target’s lawyers telling us they current location at 3245 County wanted us to change our name,” Road 42, across from Windsor says Greg. “We refused and hired Airport, in 1970, at the urging a Toronto-based copyright lawyer of Louie Scodeller of Scofan at considerable expense.”

Construction.

Greg continues, “We won the “He took me out to the site, fight and reached a co-existence told me I should move and if Target Building Materials President Greg Drouillard, left, and company founder and Chief agreement, which essentially I did, he’d build his first all-steel Executive Officer Moe Drouillard, stand in their showroom at 3245 County Road 42, which states we won’t sell dresses houses over 3,500 products to help facilitate the needs of contractors and consumers in building and we could move right Essex County. and shirts and they won’t sell in,” recalls Moe, now 86, of those concrete and insulation. But, it early days. “It was the right move because we I can empathize with everyone who works was expensive.” had room to expand and now we have 30,000 here and what they do.”

And in perhaps the ultimate irony, sq. ft. and 8,000 sq. ft. of outdoor storage.”

There are now 10 employees working Drouillard’s showroom is now full of product Drouillard says he had spent most of his in the company’s warehouse and in the shelving purchased from the U.S. department early working life toiling for someone else expansive showroom. Drouillard says he’s store when it closed its Devonshire Mall and finally realized, at age 37, he wanted to even considering hiring a fulltime employee location, along with others across Canada, work for himself. to handle the company’s expansion into less than two years after opening.

“I was nervous, of course, but after a social media on such sites as Facebook, “We have been fortunate to be supported month all the nerves went away and we’ve LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. by the entire Windsor Essex region and by had a great run,” says Drouillard.

Greg says the construction industry is not our hard-working employees,” notes Greg, While Moe was building the business, recession-proof and after some struggles whose sister Donna recently retired after Greg had shelved his dream of becoming through the 1980s, the business is on a solid working for 40 years in the family business. an airline pilot and took a series of footing and the future looks bright.

“We believe that by providing staff with administrative jobs with Air Canada.

Target supplies a wide range of materials the opportunity to grow and learn, we all “It was 1974 and I was shortlisted for a to construction companies, sub-contractors benefit.” promotion to Montreal when dad asked and the so-called weekend warriors who In honour of their 50th anniversary the me again to join him in the business,” Greg handle their own repairs and renovation company plans a series of customer and recounts. “I’m not bilingual and thought it projects. Products include acoustic and contractor ‘thank-you’ events, during the might serve me best to stay in Windsor.” ceiling tiles, concrete, masonry, insulation, year, in association with special promotions Greg continues: “I said I’d take the job concrete sealers and high-performance and product knowledge opportunities on one condition — that I work in every rubber caulking. presented by vendors with whom the position for at least five years before I took “When we opened the showroom in the company has long-term relationships. on a more senior role. And I’m happy and 1990s, that brought in the consumer and For more information, visit their website: proud to have done that because I believe that side of the business took off,” says Greg.

TargetSupply.com.

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