Biz X magazine June 2022

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION

WHAT’S NEW? New Small Biz eXcellence Contest From Libro & SBEC

WindsorEats Reveals Four Trends Expected To Impact Tourism.

How Can Local Businesses Prepare For The New Normal?

Le Centre Communautaire Francophone Windsor-Essex-Kent Finds A New Home In Downtown Windsor

JUNE 2022

$3.50

A New Hot Spot: The Bourbon Tap & Grill Tecumseh Inc. PLUS Buckingham Realty’s Daniel Hofgartner; The Spider Guys; The Mosquito Guard And Windsor Yacht Club Celebrates 85 Years

READY TO ROCK

After two years of pandemic restrictions, all kinds of in-person events are back on track, such as the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest, The Mama & Family Expo and Kingsville Highland Games. You and your family can see everything from multiple dogs-a-leaping in a lure course, over 75 exhibitors celebrating today’s families and dozens of pipers piping. Let’s do this! The summer of events starts now. — Pages 18 & 30 BIZ X M AG A Z I N E • J U N E 2 0 2 2

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

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TABLE OF CONTENTS JUNE 2022 Volume 25 • Issue 6

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4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: The June 27th Miracle Food Bank Drive, From Porch To Pantry To Family 6 Rose City Politics: Getting Priorities In Order The provincial election is over and it’s time for the government to start solving the problems. The Rose City Politics panelists analyze which priorities the next government needs to focus on, post-election.

8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Small Biz eXcellence: A Special Contest For New Start-Ups 14 Newsflash 16 Food For Thought: You Had Me At Bourbon Talk about curb appeal! The Bourbon Tap & Grill Tecumseh Inc., in the town of Tecumseh, is now officially open. It’s situated in a brand spanking new plaza located on the same site that the Torino Plaza and Banquet Hall was on for many years. While its exterior look is definitely impressive, customers will also be more than pleased when they enter the Ultra Pub. The interior is classy, comfortable and oh, so cool! Photo courtesy of George Marar.

26 Tech Bytes: Expected Windsor Essex Tourism Trends For 2022 29 Portfolio Corner: Patient And Opportunistic 30 The Parenting Biz: The Mama & Family Expo Is For Dads Too

The Mama & Family Expo has been two years in the making and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever. You’ll find a large variety of fun activities and local vendors, for not only women and children, but men as well. The all new Dad Den features experts like the Fantastic Fathers Community Group,

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plus products and services for the modern dad. There is something for everyone in the family at the expo this June! Photo courtesy of In Depth Productions.

35 Fun & Games: The Official Grand Opening Of The Farrow Riverside Miracle Park 36 From The Bookshelf: The Power Of Thought Children’s Book Series By Lynn McLaughlin And Amber Raymond 37 Health Matters: Student Catch-Up Immunization Clinics 38 Ask The Experts: Is There Something Bugging You? Two Local Companies Have The Solution!

40 Milestones: Daniel Hofgartner, Buckingham Realty 41 XX Files: Artist Kiki Symoné, artdealerchick 42 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Art Is An Adventure That Never Ends

This issue Columnist Joe McParland visits with Matthew Giffin, a gallery artist, illustrator, explorer of the new digital realm, and true entrepreneur.

Originally from Windsor, Giffin’s fascinating artistic journey has taken him from New York to Toronto to Beijing and he’s met some pretty interesting people along the way.

44 Guest Column: Camels, Falafels And Three Ladies In A Jeep 45 The Way It Was: For The Cause And Our Nation 46 Biz Of The Month: Open The Door To The Windsor Yacht Club

Only two years after the amalgamated City of Windsor was formed, the Windsor Yacht Club was born. On May 11, 1937 the Club was incorporated and is now celebrating its 85th anniversary. In a special salute to local organizations, we reflect on the not-for-profit club’s past, present, and focus on its smooth sailing voyage to success. Photo by Victoria Rose.

ON THE COVER — READY TO ROCK — PAGES 18 & 30 After two years of pandemic restrictions, the majority of major fun and family-friendly events are returning to Windsor and towns across Essex County this month and next. Now that festivals and indoor trade shows have a green light to proceed, there’s something to do almost every weekend to suit every age group, from kids to seniors. And so just like AC/DC’s 1975 signature tune with the pipes, It’s A Long Way To The Top, we wanna rock ‘n’ roll to as many events as possible!

PHOTO CREDITS MODELS: If you are lucky you might see Henry who is half Border Collie and half Australian Shepherd at the 2022 Woofa~Roo Pet Fest in Amherstburg June 25 & 26. Henry received his obedience training from Debbie Loewen, Owner of Four Wheels Four Paws Mobile Pet Sitting Services, (FourWheelsFourPaws.com) in LaSalle. Our family of five — Dr. Dean Tapak (Owner of Performance Health, 2528 Dougall Avenue, Windsor), his wife Sara and their three children, from left: Elora, Kalan and Lochlan — look forward to attending The Mama & Family Expo, June 24 & 25 at Tecumseh Arena. The upcoming 2022 Kingsville Highland Games, on June 25, is a perfect event for Frank Edgley! Now a retired school teacher, he was a top notch highland bagpipe player with 24 years of playing. His passion today is his business, Edgley Concertinas, operating from the Sho Art, Spirit & Performance building, 628 Monmouth Road, Windsor (Facebook.com/edgleyconcertinas). He is considered to be a world class craftsman and for the past 14 years has made over 400 of these handmade instruments.

BACKGROUND: © Can Stock Photo/WDGPhoto MODEL PHOTOS AND ARTWORK: Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com)

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FUNNY STUFF BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Home Is Where The Maple Leaf Is

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

Stanley is up and ready for a Timmie’s run.

Want anything?

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

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PRESIDENT

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Gengar has been “oot and aboot.” Can he please come inside now?

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WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Grab a seat and have a few pops with Cooper on the chesterfield.

Lori Baldassi Steven Bezaire Julianna Bonnett Adriano Ciotoli David Clark Natasha E. Feghali Andrea Grimes Dave Hall Karen Hall Dave Halliday Steven Mayo Joe McParland Jim Murphy Victoria Rose Rose City Politics Panelists Rebecca Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodney L. Denis Photography Josie (Elysia) Murphy Kim Jussila PRODUCTION DESIGN

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Keep The Miracle Alive

By Deborah Jones

Two years ago, June 27th took on a new meaning for residents in Windsor Essex.

It was a day of community, kindness and support during the world’s largest food drive.

It was a miracle in fact — and it happened here twice!

In 2020 and 2021, millions of pounds of food were donated to those in need during the June 27th Miracle. (Learn more on the website: June27Miracle.ca).

Even though the world seems to be headed into a new normal now, it doesn’t mean food insecurity has gone away. Food bank usage is at an all-time high, while food bank donations are at all-time lows.

It’s time for the community to come together once again to stock the shelves of area charities and food banks!

Although porch pick-ups and donation centres are not taking place as in previous years, the Miracle can continue, with your help.

The June 27th Organizing Committee — Tracey Bailey, Bill Johnson, Jennifer Stokes, Kelsey Coon, Kendal Malewicz, Morgan Ryan, Noah Campbell, Spencer Briguglio, Sue Desjarlais, Talya Natyshak, Tera Gillen Petrozzi, and Matt Hernandez — encourages businesses, coworkers, families and friends to drop off a donation to a food bank or charity of your choice on June 27th, with the Miracle in mind.

For a list of the most needed food bank items please visit online: CommunitySupportCentre.ca/food-pantry. Your contribution, large or small, can make a huge impact on those who need it most.

Check: WEFBA.ca — the website of the Windsor Essex Food Bank Association — to find a food bank in your area where you can take your donations.

So let’s keep the spirit alive of past Miracle Days . . . accept the challenge to shop and drop!

I know I will!

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Here’s What The Next Government Needs To Focus On

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

The June 2 provincial election is now over and done. And so for this edition of Biz X, the Rose City Politics panel discusses, in their opinion, the most important areas the next Ontario government must concentrate on.

There are numerous issues the next government should focus on — from healthcare to long-term care, education to transit, and Ontario Disability Support Program to affordable housing — but the most important issue is combating both societal and political extremism.

This year saw an economic blockade of the Ambassador Bridge literally and physically divide our community in two, cost the tax payers $5 million directly, and removed over a billion dollars worth of productivity from the automotive sector.

At the same time we were then — and are still now, dealing with COVID-19 — and there are forces, some political and some community, seeking to eliminate all public health measures and ensure they are never re-implemented. This is dangerous.

The next government needs to get a hold of this societal and political extremism and work towards eliminating the root causes.

Two new provincial political parties are advocating against all COVID public health measures. The Ontario Party, who hired former Donald Trump advisor and dirty-

Don Merrifield Jr. In Windsor the obvious one is the ongoing hospital project. Stepping outside the debate about location, this is probably one of the area’s biggest issues — both on a healthcare front and for economic development.

Windsor Essex has been left with

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trickster Roger Stone as a strategist, and the New Blue Party of Ontario.

It was opposing necessary COVID public health measures that led to the Ambassador Bridge Blockade.

In Windsor, a local anti-vaxxer and antiCOVID public health measures leader has announced her intentions of running for City of Windsor Council in Ward 4.

While the odds of these voices winning a meaningful amount of seats at their respective tables are low, it doesn’t mean they can be disregarded. These are members of our society, and while they are seeking extreme outcomes, they should not be ignored.

Legislation alone cannot ensure there won’t be another blockade or pandemic, but working to ensure the conditions aren’t ripe to exacerbate the situation should be a top priority of the government.

An election brings with it an opportunity to start anew and address issues head on, and while there are numerous issues deserving of full attention, the most important issue is combating societal and political extremism

to ensure blockades don’t become standard political activism.

Jon Liedtke is a Host for AM800 CKLW, Co-host and Producer of Rose City Politics, a business consultant, serves on Artcite’s Executive Board, and is a band member of Windsor’s The Nefidovs.

neglected healthcare infrastructure for decades. It is actually insulting how this area has been neglected by governments of all parties.

Although it appears the project is moving forward, the recent timelines for actual construction and completion leave a lot to be desired.

Many people have relocated to the area and will continue to with the recent economic development announcements, and an important factor for people relocating is ensuring adequate healthcare services.

I am hoping the timeline is a bit of politics that will miraculously get accelerated by the hard work of (insert politician’s name) and they can take credit for it. I don’t care. I just want it built as soon as possible.

Continued focus on economic development opportunities that involve other levels of government are a nice change again after years of getting the odd scrap thrown our way. Maybe Ontario will stop ending at London and our economy can have some long-term stability!

Housing is an issue I am all too familiar with, given my job as a Real Estate Agent.

It is great for homeowners in this area to finally see property values increase as has been the case in most other cities in Ontario for years, but affordability for first time homebuyers has become a huge problem.

Investments in affordable housing are required as the reality in the private market will not focus on that end of the market.

The deficit and long-term government debt are going to become a larger issue with rising interest rates. Any party promising to spend their way to power may sound nice, but they are just going to throw fuel on an already large fire.

Investments, aka “increased spending,” are only viable if there are available ways to fund them. Nothing is ever free.

Don Merrifield Jr. is a REALTOR serving Windsor Essex County for over 21 years, a Co-Host on Rose City Politics for over 10 years, a father and grandfather, a former professional musician, and a former Ward 3 City Council candidate.

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Jon Liedtke

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

The single most important provincial issue for Windsor is education.

The pandemic has brought healthcare issues front and centre, and the rising cost of housing is on everyone’s mind.

But Windsor’s comparatively low level of educational attainment represents a drag on our economy and the limiting factor to increased prosperity for the city and the surrounding region.

Last month on our podcast, Workforce WindsorEssex CEO Justin Falconer told us: “We’re dealing with a workforce that’s not as well-educated, historically, as the rest of Ontario is.”

He went on to say that the picture is getting brighter and pointed to Canada’s G7-leading numbers in post-secondary attendance.

The most recent numbers available from Statistics Canada for the Windsor Census Metropolitan Area, which includes some county municipalities as well, do seem to show a closing gap. 32.6% of our population aged 25 to 34 has a high school diploma or less, compared to 30.7% across Canada.

That’s an improvement over the 3.8% gap for the population aged 25 to 64.

It’s important to recognize progress, but we should be aiming to exceed the national average, not just fall short by a smaller amount.

Educational attainment is linked with income and Windsor has seen a decline in median household income since the 1990s, when we were above the national average on that measure.

The most important thing the next provincial government can do is invest in public and post-secondary education, particularly in removing barriers to post-secondary education for people experiencing poverty.

Windsor has the highest rate of child poverty in Ontario, and we will need help from the provincial government if we want our young people to fully realize their potential.

We’ve had a series of good news stories about economic development recently.

If we’re going to make the most of them,

Doug Sartori we need an educated workforce. That’s the priority.

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

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

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FRONTLINES

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indsor-Tecumseh businessman of 37 years, Gerard Bernauer and his partner Wendy Kelley, have officially opened On The Cannabis Side, situated at 13300 Tecumseh Road East, Unit 155, Green Valley Plaza in Tecumseh.

Though the business had a soft opening in December 2021, a grand opening celebration took place May 14 complete with entertainment, food, raffles, visits from Town of Tecumseh Councillors, and plenty of friends and family enjoying the festivities.

The modern and bright store offers what Bernauer describes as a community hub for anyone over the legal age of 19.

“We opened the cannabis shop for three reasons — our personal journey and experience with the positive effect of cannabis, to contribute in reducing the stigma that is associated with it, and supporting all adults’ right to choose,” explains Bernauer. “Seven years ago, I suffered a serious car accident when I was delivering flyers on behalf of a mayoral candidate for Essex County. I was travelling along the country roads in Essex County on my ATV dropping his flyers into mailboxes.

I was hit by a vehicle that was travelling at excessive speeds and sustained a head injury.

It was serious and I was left for dead.”

Over months and years, Bernauer suffered significantly and was prescribed multiple prescription drugs for pain and his brain injury.

Eventually, he wanted an alternative therapy to assist him in his recovery and received a medical licence for cannabis as it was illegal at that time.

After opening their first location in Tecumseh, they decided it was time to expand and a second location soon followed at 4756 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor.

Recently opened in early May, it operates out of a shared space with On The Dark Side Tanning Salon, also owned by Bernauer.

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On The Cannabis Side

Opens Two New Locations

Pictured during the official ribbon cutting of On The Cannabis Side (OTCS) on May 14 at the Green Valley Plaza location, from left are: Karen Kirincic, OTCS Staff; Brian Houston, Tecumseh Councillor; Joe Bachetti, Tecumseh Councillor; Wendy Kelley and Gerard Bernauer, Owners; Ricardo Tonial, Tecumseh Councillor; and Taylor Loewen, OTCS Staff. Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

“Both Wendy and I started out both canna-curious and canna-confused after we received prescriptions for medical cannabis, but we wanted to learn more,” says Bernauer. “Even though our stores are recreational, we carry all of the cannabis that is prescribed medically as well, and we believe in educating people about it, so you can make the choice that is right for you.”

With the two locations, the couple hope to

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spread more awareness and crush the stigma that surrounds cannabis.

“The cannabis we sell is regulated and tested by Health Canada, so no surprises there,” explains Bernauer. “I encourage everyone to go into the stores and our very experienced staff can take you through the store and educate you on everything.”

For more information about these two new businesses, check out the website: OnTheCannabisSide.ca.

FRONTLINES

Bienvenue A Notre Carrefour Communautaire Francophone I t’s been a long and winding road, but Le Centre Communautaire Francophone Windsor-Essex-Kent (CCFWEK) appears to have found a permanent home at 720 Ouellette Avenue in downtown Windsor.

The non-profit organization held its opening weekend in mid-May and also welcomed nine other Francophone organizations and school boards, which are sharing the space previously home to the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator.

“We started out at Place Concorde in 1990 and it was our home for many years,” explains CCFWEK Executive Director Didier Marotte. “But when the region went into an economic slump in 2008/2009, we were adversely affected as well and the building ended

up being taken over by Collège Boréal.”

The organization stayed on as a tenant until 2016 when the College expanded and needed the space occupied by CCFWEK. “For three years, we rented space on Walker Road while we regrouped and tried to decide on our next move with the idea of it being permanent and stable,” explains Marotte.

With the aid of astute financial planning and some government grants, CCFWEK has now relocated to a more accessible centre and built a sustainable financial model supported by nine tenants.

“It’s been extremely exciting and interesting and gives us a chance to re-launch with our original mission to help Francophones in this area overcome some

Pictured at the front of the main entrance during the May 12th open house, from left are: Paul Levac, Executive-Director Entité de planification des services de santé en Français Erie-St. Clair; Yasmine Joheir, Community Liaison Officer, Conseil scolaire Viamonde; Hussein Kawas, Community Liaison Agent, Conseil scolaire catholique Providence; Rina Michaud, CAO, Centre Communautaire Francophone Windsor-Essex- Kent (CCFWEK); Didier Marotte, CCFWEK Executive Director; Lise Lamarche, CCFWEK Réception Manager; Stephane Lucky, CCFWEK Community Relations Manager; Gisèle Dionne, Executive Director, Association des communautés francophones de l’Ontario (Windsor, Essex, Chatham, Kent) and Nono Basubi, CCFWEK Communication Agent.

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Inside the Centre Communautaire Francophone Windsor-Essex-Kent, situated at 720 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor, you will find team members (from left): Rita Farah, Jacques Lehani, Saida Hamani, Christian Nkurunziza, Alexandrine Loiseau and Executive Director, Didier Marotte who are part of the Settlement Worker In Schools program (SWIS) able to support newcomer students attending Frenchlanguage schools in the region of Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent. Photos by Rod Denis.

of the challenges they face,” Marotte adds.

The organization offers a number of programs to Francophones including the Settlement Workers In Schools program, socio-cultural activities and career and life guidance for teenagers.

Its Connexions program helps Francophones with the services necessary for their integration into the local community.

“Working side-by-side with other tenants in the building allows us to share resources and work together in providing services,” Marotte indicates.

A number of programs were put on hold over the past two years because most of the organization’s people were working from home.

“Now that we have returned to work physically, we can re-introduce those programs and we are all very excited to continue the work,” says Marotte.

For more information on Le Carrefour (The Hub), and all organizations housed on this site, visit: CCFWEK.org.

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HEARD ON THE STREET Kate Robinson, owner of The Twisted Apron Restaurant • Taphouse in Walkerville is anxiously awaiting a move — virtually across Wyandotte Street — to the historic Strathcona Building currently undergoing a magnificent renovation by the Rosati Group. “I had hoped to be in by patio season because we are going to have a spectacular patio,” says Robinson.

“I cannot wait to see our new space and it will be a great move when it happens.” The building was designed by famed architect Albert Kahn and the new version will include dining areas, a bar, and a large full commercial kitchen, along with a patio and exterior pick up window. The Twisted Apron is currently located at 1833 Wyandotte Street East and online at: TheTwistedApron.com.

Three years after buying The Cook’s Shop, Spencer Dawson has long-range plans to resurrect The Pasta Shop on the upper floor of the building at 683 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor. “It’s going to take some time because in a building that was built in 1908, there are some issues we have to deal with before we can go ahead,” says Dawson. “You think there are five issues and suddenly there’s 15.” In the meantime, Dawson is slowly getting The Cook’s Shop back off the ground, following two years of pandemic restrictions. Dawson has launched a Tuesday through Sunday lunch menu from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a dinner seating, beginning at 5 p.m. He adds that Lino Catroppa, who launched the restaurants in 1980, offered a lunch menu in the 1980s before deciding to concentrate on evening service. Dawson plans to utilize the upper space for larger events, while allowing the lower space to remain an intimate

dining location. “If you have large parties downstairs, it can take away some of the ambiance and intimacy that the restaurant has become known for over the years,” he says. Their culinary team prepares everything in-house and uses exclusively local suppliers. In addition to their regular menu, lunch choices include a variety of salads and paninis. For more information visit: CooksShopWindsor.com.

Redevelopment of Huron Church Road is continuing with plans for an Arby’s restaurant and an Esso gas station moving ahead on the west side of the road, directly across from Fred’s Farm Fresh International Market. Other new businesses along the heavily-travelled route include a new A&W restaurant on the site of a former Rexall Drug Store, a Starbucks on the corner of University Plaza at Tecumseh Road West, with a Church’s Chicken and Fat Bastard Burrito along the same stretch of roadway. There’s also a Giant Tiger under construction on the site of the former Huron Lodge, with more retail planned for a section of the property where Studio 4 previously stood.

A new Laundry Depot laundromat, planned for the intersection of Tecumseh Road West and Campbell Avenue — which we reported on in our March 2022 column — is on indefinite hold. Owner Tony Abraham, who also owns a Laundry Depot in Leamington, as well as PA General Contracting, says a delay in permits from the City of Windsor has brought construction and interior renovations to the former convenience store building, to a halt. “I’ve been a contractor for 30 years and I’ve never seen anything

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like it,” says Abraham. “It’s probably related to all the new home construction, but that doesn’t help get a small business off the ground.” Abraham added that washers and dryers are also on back order and that it likely will be two more months before his business is up and running. Most recently, the building was home to a used car dealership.

Keep up to date with the latest info on the Leamington location’s Facebook page under: The Laundry Depot.

Construction has begun on a new Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen restaurant at 5178 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor, on a site previously occupied by Country Time Café. The lot has been vacant and used for the sale of Christmas trees and spring flowers since an explosion levelled the building on Christmas Day 2005. The chain (Popeyes.com) was launched in New Orleans 50 years ago and now has more than 2,000 restaurants across North America, including 200 in Canada. There are already two in Windsor — on Huron Church Road and Howard Avenue.

Urban Barn, a furniture retailer, is close to opening its first Windsor outlet on Walker Road, in a space previously occupied by an IKEA Pick-up and Order-point location.

Covering 10,000 square feet, the store will feature furniture, artwork, lighting and wall décor, for a clientele looking for something contemporary or rustic. The chain was launched in Vancouver in 1990 and now has more than 50 locations across the country (refer to: UrbanBarn.com).

IKEA, meanwhile, has returned to the region and recently opened a small store at Devonshire Mall.

Mind Games, a Canadian games and toy store, is opening a new store, sometime in June, at Devonshire Mall on Howard Avenue in Windsor. The chain — which has 22 locations across Canada including 16 in Ontario — sells board games, card games, jigsaw puzzles, trading card games and family games. Find further details about their products on: MindGames.ca.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Big Businesses Start Small!

Local Organizations Team Up With New Contest P remiering here in the June edition of Biz X magazine — with a second installment to come in October — we introduce to you a special contest with Libro Credit Union (Libro.ca) and the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC; WeBusinessCentre.com) to reward new start-ups in the region.

“Libro’s partnerships with organizations within the business ecosystem in our region are integral to growing prosperity for Windsor Essex,” states Shannon Dyck, Small Business Specialist Coach for Libro Credit Union. “Partnering with SBEC and Biz X on this initiative is an opportunity to further provide wrap around supports for the successful business.”

So what is the process to determine the overall winner?

The SBEC staff selected three finalists from 178 businesses who utilized their consulting services from January to April.

Libro then chose their top choice to receive a cash prize of $500 and coaching sessions.

“Finding the right business advisors can make all the difference for a new small business in those first new years,” indicates Dyck. “Libro is happy to provide additional coaching to help build financial resilience, to coach on cash flow management, banking tools and business solutions that can help a new business make smart business decisions.”

SBEC was the perfect organization to

involve in this initiative since they have provided thousands of entrepreneurs with the training and support necessary to start and grow successful businesses in Windsor and Essex County since 1992.

Their services include: Small business advice and consultation; business plan support; access to professionals; research assistance; business development workshops; access to micro-financing; mentoring and networking opportunities; and guidance on government requirements and programs And now we present the first winner, drum roll please . . . Montañeros Coffee Corp!

“We are so happy to have won this award and to have been selected as the best among a group of successful companies,” says Wilmer

INTEREST WOULD MEAN MORE THAN A LOAN RATE. Your business is your baby. You created and nurtured it, risking everything to make it a win. So yes - loan rates are important.

A financial partner who shows genuine interest in your success is also important. Libro business Coaches believe in your company. Through good times and challenges. Making money better for businesses blends compassionate, expert financial coaching and fair rates.

Contact a Libro business Coach today. libro.ca/business 1-800-361-8222

Libro is excited to partner with Biz X Magazine and the Small Business Entrepreneurship Centre on the Small Biz eXcellence contest.

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Photographed at the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC) downtown Windsor for the cheque presentation from left are: Natasha Marar, SBEC Manager, Marketing & Entrepreneurship Programs; Shannon Dyck, Small Business Specialist Coach for Libro Credit Union; Wilmer Hernandez and Caterine Arboleda Munoz, Founders and CEOs of Montañeros Coffee Corp. with Aparna Krishnamoorthy, SBEC Business Advisor. Photo by Rod Denis.

Hernandez, Co-founder of Montañeros with his wife Caterine Arboleda Munoz. “This means we have been doing a great job. As entrepreneurs, it is gratifying to know that all our effort, passion and perseverance to make a difference is seen by organizations as important as this one. We will invest this award in ourselves as founders of this specialty company, in which we have put all

our effort that unites the best of two countries, in a cup of our Colombian specialty coffee.”

The couple grew up on farms in Colombia, where they learned the coffee business inside and out from the generations of Montañeros that came before them. From sourcing to crafting, it’s this expertise and tradition that makes their coffee unmistakeably different.

The business recently relocated from

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Brampton, Ontario to Windsor, so their products are available in the GTA region, but also locally in places such as: Fred’s Farm Fresh International Market, Wolf & Rebel, Windsor Tea Emporium, Dressed

by An Olive, and the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market, Customers can also order online from: MontanerosCoffee.com.

“When reviewing the three finalists, the Libro team looked at how each business aligned with our Four Pillars (Employment, Financial Resilience, Local Food Accessibility, and Housing), the impact on our community, scaleability, and who we felt would benefit from coaching and the $500 award,” says Dyck.

“The Libro team chose Montañeros to receive the Small Biz Excellence Award. We feel they have the most potential, both for growth and employment opportunities, and we appreciate their focus on sustainability on a global scale, and diversity and inclusion. And finally, Montañeros demonstrated their eagerness to learn in our Libro sponsored Foodpreneur Advantage Scale-Up program through Invest WindsorEssex Small Business and Entrepreneurship Centre, providing them with additional business coaching and resources to launch and take their business to the next level.”

Congratulations to Montañeros for receiving this Small Biz eXcellence recognition!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN There’s a new way to support rural entrepreneurs, thanks to the launch of a partnership between WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com) and Libro Credit Union (Libro.ca). Innovation Outposts are being set up across Essex County and ChathamKent, using business and community spaces to connect the people behind local start-ups and businesses. The program hosts regular events and supports business development through education and better links to other support groups and programs. “We realize that our region’s entrepreneurs, particularly those in more rural areas, have access to fewer resources than their peers in urban areas and face greater challenges in starting and scaling their companies,” says Adam Frye, Director of Operations and Partnerships at WEtech Alliance. The Innovation Outposts program builds upon the success of a six year partnership between WEtech Alliance and Libro Credit Union. “We want to empower entrepreneurs and their communities by connecting them to each other and to the regional resource network and bridging the rural innovation divide,” states Lori Atkinson, Libro’s Regional Manager in Windsor Essex. “We believe rural entrepreneurship is a key element to rural revitalization and regional economic impact and prosperity.” Additional outposts are coming soon, including a Lakeshore Outpost in June and a Kingsville Outpost in July. Learn more on: WEtech-alliance.com/outposts.

The WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF), along with local community leaders and partners, have launched Windsor Essex’s 2022 Vital Signs Survey in early May. The survey is used as a component of the Vital Signs Report, released every October, which highlights local, provincial, and national data as it pertains to various areas of the community, including housing, food security, health, wellness & activity, learning, and the environment. Through the Vital Signs Survey, residents can provide their input and identify priorities, as well as letting the WECF and our community know what makes Windsor Essex a great place to live, work, play and grow.

The WECF refers to the Vital Signs report to ensure that funded projects and programs align with what the community has identified as their priorities. The survey thoroughly examines a variety of topics in order to gather comprehensive data from our community — respondents should expect to spend 10 to 15 minutes completing the survey. Those who

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complete the survey by August 12, 2022, in full, have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win $100. The survey is available on: WECF.ca.

Paper copies are also available by contacting the WECF office.

Williams Food Equipment, represented by Reid Williams and his wife Sarah, recently donated a fully stocked kitchen for the new Solcz Family Foundation Respite Home. Photo courtesy of Family Respite Services.

A huge thank you goes out to Williams Food Equipment for their recent donation of a fully stocked kitchen for the Family Respite Services Windsor-Essex (FRS), Solcz Family Foundation Respite Home, 4400 Howard Avenue in Windsor. With zero government funding, FRS has relied on the community to invest in families caring for children with disabilities to build a new accessible respite home. The respite home offers critical after school crisis programs, weekend programs for families who require long-term respite support and a very specialized summer day camp. These programs ensure that children have the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe environment and with trained Direct Support Provider Staff. Over 30 staff work in this home. Reid Williams, Co-Owner of Williams Food Equipment states: “The new respite home fulfills a huge need, supporting children with exceptionalities and their families in our community. We are excited to be a part of the final stage of the new home coming together.

We hope the new kitchenware items equip staff with everything they need to prepare meals and also provide the opportunity for children who are able to participate in the kitchen to learn important life and transitional skills.”

Visit: WilliamsFoodEquipment.com to learn more about this local family business and: FamilyRespite.org to find out on how you can help make a difference!

For the fifth consecutive year, Electrozad has been recognized for overall business performance and sustained growth with the prestigious Canada’s Best Managed Companies designation. The company first

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won the Best Managed award in 2018 and became a Gold Standard winner last year.

“We are honoured to have achieved Gold Standard status again this year, a program that recognizes our commitment to company culture and delivering results for our customers,” says James Taylor, President of Electrozad. “Thanks to our dedicated team, we have always been known for our exemplary service, and we continue to strive to be the top performing solutions partner within our industry.” Electrozad is a leading provider of electrical and automation products, services, and expertise, to their customers in the Automotive, Contractor, Food & Beverage, Institutional, Machine Tool, OEM, and Petrochemical industries. The company was incorporated in 1955 and has established locations in Chatham, London, Sarnia, and Windsor. Further details on: Electrozad.com.

AV Gauge & Fixture Inc. (AV Gauge), who was a winner of Canada’s Best Managed Companies program in 2016, has re-qualified in 2022 to maintain its status as a Best Managed Gold Standard company.

“Our success is attributable to our excellent team of employees,” states Tim Campeau, President, AV Gauge. “They showed great flexibility and commitment to meeting our customers’ needs during the pandemic. From process improvements to innovative solutions, all were critical in helping us to adapt to the changes in our global landscape. Today we are stronger and continue to grow with new ideas and an improved strategic focus.” The 2022 Best Managed program award winners are amongst the best-in-class of Canadian-owned and managed companies with revenues over $50 million, demonstrating leadership in the areas of strategy, capabilities and innovation, culture and commitment, and financials, to achieve sustainable growth. AV Gauge is situated at 4000 Delduca Drive in Oldcastle, with a website at: AVgauge.com.

Farrow is incredibly proud to announce they have been awarded Canada’s Best Managed Companies designation for the 13th consecutive year. Along with this notable recognition, Farrow has also achieved, for the seventh time, Platinum Club status, a membership that is exclusive to Canada’s leading organizations.

“This acknowledgement exemplifies the phenomenal work of our dedicated employees over the past year, which allowed us to drive innovative solutions in a very broken supply chain world,” comments Grant Robinson,

Farrow CEO. “Going forward, we will continue to adapt to an ever-changing global landscape with the promise of peace of mind delivered, working together as One Farrow.” For more information on this company see: Farrow.com.

Gear House Windsor and Canadian Arts Productions, in partnership with the Windsor Endowment for the Arts, have created a new filmmaking award — the Rose City Film Award — which features cash and a variety of in-kind prizes, to help beginning filmmakers.

The competition is open to students 18 years of age or older who are attending school in Windsor Essex, Chatham Kent, Sarnia Lambton and London Middlesex, in 2022. The deadline for entries is Sunday, August 28, 2022 and applicants must submit a logline and a short film of a maximum one minute in length, along with proof of student status. Judging will focus on the storytelling qualities of the film. Details for the competition and how to enter can be found at: WEA-Arts.com/rose-city-film-competition.

NEW IN BIZ Pure Mentality Wellness Boutique, 871 Ottawa Street, Unit 100, in Windsor, officially opened its doors in mid-May. It is founded by Erika Pozzuoli, RSW, MSW, who, after working for 10 years in the nonprofit sector, opted to open her own practice,

specializing in self-care and holistic mental health. “It is my dream to open a safe space that provides affordable and accessible mental health services,” expresses Pozzuoli. “This space will open a conversation to end the stigma around mental health and embrace the ideal, specifically for children and youth, that ‘Therapy is cool’. As for the boutique, I have always wanted to provide a space for small businesses to share their products promoting mental wellness and self care.” Pure Mentality is building a community to raise awareness and encourage conversations around mental health by providing a platform that supports mental wellness, mental health and self-care. The growing team of mental health professionals provides affordable counselling to children, youth and adults through a trauma-informed lens, as well as tutoring services, behaviour management and group therapy. Additionally, they sell products sourced from small businesses, specifically curated to encourage holistic mental wellness needs for all areas of life, including mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. Visit: MyPureMentality.ca to find out how they can help soothe your soul today!

HALL OF FAME Congratulations to our very own Dr. Saad Jasim, Ph.D., P. Eng. of Windsor,

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who received the 2022 Engineering Medal — Entrepreneurship Award from the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers. This award is given to an engineer who pioneered an engineering application. (For the Dr. Saad Jasim specific award criteria see: OPEawards.ca/the-engineering-medal).

In 2001, Dr. Jasim introduced and implemented the application of ozone for the primary disinfection of drinking water, the first of its scale and application in Ontario.

He was also the Founding CEO for the Walkerton Clean Water Centre after the tragedy that caused the death of seven people and the illness of more than 2,000 residents in the Town of Walkerton. He also served as Director, Great Lakes Regional Office of the International Joint Commission, dealing with water quality challenges in the Great Lakes and was the first Canadian to lead the International Ozone Association (President, 2020-2022). Dr. Jasim’s latest achievement was solving the problem of arsenic and manganese in drinking water for the City of White Rock in BC. He receives his medal on November 18, 2022 at a Black Tie event in Vaughan.

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© Can Stock Photo/Kurhan

FOOD FOR THOUGHT THIS ISSUE FEATURES…

The Bourbon Tap & Grill Tecumseh Inc. 12049 Tecumseh Rd E., Unit 2, Tecumseh

By David Clark

Photos courtesy of George Marar

W

ith proof of concept secured from a successful Ottawa Street location, the new satellite operation of The Bourbon Tap & Grill is now up and running in the heart of Tecumseh.

This new hot spot, known as The Bourbon Tap & Grill Tecumseh Inc., opened on March 31, 2022 and features the same great food as the Ottawa Street business and a built-in Ultra Pub with plenty of beer, wine and spirits available.

The forerunner to all of this — the 1199 Ottawa Street establishment — opened October 1, 2014, where the Bourbon journey began, offering wood-fired oven pizzas, chicken wings, a variety of drinks, entertainment and everything you could ever want in a classic pub.

Eight years later, an east end location enters the local hospitality scene.

“Opening up in Tecumseh was long awaited with the pandemic and everything happening in the world, but we are so happy with the positive feedback that we have been receiving from everyone and the surrounding businesses,” says George Marar, Co-Owner/Operator of both outlets.

“To be carrying on the legacy of a successful

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The sky’s the limit with the one-of-a-kind grand ceiling and wall to wall sports television that literally raises the bar over an amazing selection of cocktails.

business in this location for over 40 years is an honour” (a reference to being located on the same site as the Torino Plaza and Banquet Hall).

In partnership with Marar is Joe Sperduti, Co-Owner, who has also been in the hospitality industry for 20 plus years.

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The granddaddy of them all — the Bourbon Burger — buns hold a lot of favourites packed inside, including the beef itself, bacon, cheddar, crispy onions and the famous Bourbon Sauce.

Like its Ottawa Street counterpart, The Bourbon Tap & Grill Tecumseh reveals a very rustic look. No detail was spared and the owners’ passion to create a classy and comfortable environment shines throughout the whole new building.

According to Marar, “The Tecumseh bar has the second largest indoor TV in Southwestern Ontario, and a lounge area with couch seating is available and cocktail bar. A billiards room and a dance floor for your night out are also very inviting.

You will come across a grand stage for entertainment, and a patio is in the works also, for Tecumseh.”

Some of the fabulous eats to start with are the appetizers including in-house Mozza Sticks made with Galati Cheese; Nachos and Calamari.

Regarding the wood-burning oven pizzas, a favourite choice includes a Bruschetta Pizza brushed with garlic butter, toasted then topped with a fresh mix, feta cheese and a balsamic drizzle. Another is the exotic Taco Pizza, loaded with a Béchamel base, taco beef, mixed cheeses, sautéed onion and topped with lettuce and a sour cream glaze.

The beautifully breaded Calamari is good for the dip or loaded enough for your entire meal!

One of the stacked burgers at the pub is The Bourbon Burger that oozes spiciness including a home-made patty brushed with the Bourbon BBQ Sauce, cheese, bacon and topped with lettuce, pickles, onions and tomato. A vegetarian popular choice is the Portobello Mushroom Burger with roasted red peppers and feta cheese on a toasted bun.

A flavourful wrap at the restaurant is the Pulled Pork Wrap with the pork prepared in-house and added to banana peppers, slaw, Bourbon Sauce, mixed cheeses, wrapped in a flour tortilla. And that’s not all!

“Our traditional wings are served naked or with a dusted breading, with your choice

of ranch or blue cheese dip,” says Marar.

“We have a nice variety of created sauce flavours, dry rubs and combinations.”

For a healthy order, choose a Steak Salad or Spinach Salad.

Another prized entrée to look forward to is the Grilled Glazed Salmon having been a huge success as of late. It is finished with a maple walnut glaze, a side of rice and fresh broccoli.

For a couple of specials, two to look into are Arancini Balls (rice balls mixed with meat sauce), and the Osso Bucco where the lamb shank is seared to perfection.

Of particular importance to many are the wines, craft beer and cocktails.

“An Ultra Pub, Tecumseh carries over 22 draughts, an extensive selection of Bourbons, whiskeys and scotches, crafted cocktails or a nice glass of wine . . . we have it all,” explains Marar.

Top choices include the Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, the classic Walkerville Brewery Honest Lager, the Frank Brewing Co. Bombshell blonde ale and a cocktail worth dreaming about, the Old Fashioned.

As for the menu it is updated every season, with new items added, new features and delicious new recipes for those dining in and a third-party delivery service added soon.

The restaurant has the capacity for 353

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The Grilled Glazed Salmon is a sensational seafood dinner with its maple walnut glaze, a side of rice and a healthy portion of broccoli.

people and they can host mid-size parties of up to 130. They are also planning to launch a catering menu for special events off-site in the near future.

“At The Bourbon Tap & Grill Tecumseh you can watch sports, have a nice dinner, a quick lunch, or enjoy a wood-fired pizza,” Marar expresses. “Enjoy live entertainment, billiards, dance the night away, have your wine in the speakeasy lounge or throw a party — there is always lots to explore and experience!”

Since the Tecumseh website and Facebook page are still being set up, to view the hours of operation and the menu, please refer to the Ottawa Street website: BourbonWindsor.com and social media page: Facebook.com/BourbonTapandGrill.

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Life’s A Party . . .

Enjoy It One Event At A Time COVER STORY By Dave Hall

A

fter two years of seeing festivals and events totally shut down or severely curtailed by pandemic restrictions, we are now seeing a return of many of the special activities attended by residents and visitors across the region and beyond.

From the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest in Amherstburg to the Kingsville Highland Games, and from the Ford Fireworks along the Detroit River, to the LaSalle Strawberry Festival, there’s something on the horizon for almost every taste and age group.

Gordon Orr, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, says the approaching summer months will be a welcome sign of normality for the hospitality and tourism sector, which has been heavily battered by COVID restrictions since early 2020.

“It’s a strong sign that the local tourism and hospitality sector is re-opening and ready to welcome residents and visitors to a whole host of events,” says Orr. “Many of these events are trip-motivators and provide activities for family and friends in town to visit with local residents.”

Orr also acknowledged that sponsors, vendors and volunteers play key roles in making sure these events are successful.

“These events also provide great exposure for businesses and introduce them to future customers they might not otherwise see,” adds Orr. “Festivals and events are what bring people together and this region has always been known for being a social community, and welcoming to all demographics.”

Dave MacNeil, Chief Executive Officer of Festivals and Events Ontario, believes the return to full-scale events will still take some time as people gradually begin to feel comfortable with going out and about.

“We hear that volunteers are hard to come by in some communities, but I imagine that will change slowly,” says McNeil. “These events are important throughout Ontario and they help build community by bringing together people with similar interests, whether it’s wine, music, beer, food or culture.”

For information about activities across Ontario see: FestivalsAndEventsOntario.ca.

For specific events locally you can go to:

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Come on, give your dog a bone and take them to the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest, a funtastic festival for “pets and their people”! Three year old Toby, a Bernese Mountain dog is the event’s official ambassador and is owned by Lindsay (Turner) Malfara. Photo courtesy of Chalet Studio Photography & Gardens.

VisitWindsorEssex.com, but also continue to read this article, LOL! Since June is traditionally Tourism Month, Biz X magazine has put together a list of the many events planned for this region throughout June until mid-July. (Publisher’s Note: The Parenting Biz section of this edition, starting on Page 30, has the details on The Mama & Family Expo, June 24 & 25. As well, the July/August issue will cover events from mid-July to the end of September).

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At the time of writing, event organizers were still in the preparation phases of most profiled events here, so only the information known when this article was assembled could be included.

If you are interested in attending any of these events be sure to check the websites listed since details can change right up until the last minute.

Let’s start with two big events Biz X sponsors and then follow up with other events taking place, in date order.

The Woofa~Roo Pet Fest June 25 & 26

This family and pet-friendly event returns to the Libro Sports Complex, 3295 Meloche Road in Amherstburg, for an indoor and outdoor show from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. each day.

“I think everyone is ready to have a summer of normality,” says Woofa~Roo Pet Fest event organizer Lorene Clayton. “Our last event was in 2019 and it’s well past time to get back to having a normal life again.”

Clayton reports there are more sponsors and vendors than in the past and her seventh event promises to provide two days of fun activities for people and pets of all ages.

Two years ago, more than 9,500 people and 3,500 dogs attended the two day event and Clayton believes it could be even bigger this year.

“We have great support from all of our sponsors and vendors and it’s become a huge event on their summer calendar,” she adds.

It has also become a large fundraiser for pet rescue groups such as SNAP For Cats, CK Animal Rescue, St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program, CAT Assistance Team and Second Chance Animal Rescue.

“It’s difficult to tell how many dogs are adopted as a result of the show because applications are only accepted at the time

A new feature of the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest is the Dog Lovers Lure Course. Your dog will have a ball and get some great exercise too! Photo courtesy of DogLoversDays.

of the festival,” explains Clayton. “It can take a few months before any adoptions are accepted, but we do believe a great many people become interested in rescued dogs as a result of the show.”

Among the activities planned are dock diving and dog agility events, lure coursing (sponsored by Biz X), displays of parrots and reptiles, a Windsor Police Service K9 show (on the second day only), dog races, charity contests and displays by specialty vendors.

There’s also a Pet-Ucation inter-active session, sponsored by LaSalle’s Oxford Learning Centre, which gives pet owners an opportunity to ask questions of pet experts and animal behaviour specialists.

Jeanine Simard, Owner of Bark & Fitz,

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is also excited that the festival is returning following a two year absence.

“We had a great response two years ago and it really helped launch our business, so we’re looking forward to seeing some of the same people again, along with new customers,” says Simard.

Her store sells food and treats for cats and dogs, as well as a full line of pet-friendly healthcare items including supplements and probiotics.

“We’ll be there both days and we’ll have a good variety of our entire line of products,” adds Simard.

Anne Rota, Manager of Tourism and Culture for the Town of Amherstburg, believes the event has already become a signature attraction for the town.

“We are thrilled the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest is back this year,” says Rota. “It’s a great family event and kudos to the organizers of all special events. It takes a lot of effort on their part, but it pays off (for other businesses near the event site) when attendees find all the amazing amenities Amherstburg has to offer when they visit us.”

Victor Pundzius and his wife Kathy, who own For Your Fur Kids, have been long-time supporters, as the pet fest is an opportunity for them to meet with customers and explain their philosophy on what they sell.

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Dynamic Dock Diving returns to the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest. Photo by Rod Denis.

“We always try to suggest that people do their homework and buy their pet food from reputable companies,” says Victor who has been involved with the festival since its inception. “We try to deal with companies that make the food themselves rather than simply packaging someone else’s products.”

Referring to having a booth there, he adds: “The festival is also a great opportunity to get our brand out there and provide people with some samples of what we sell.”

The couple also provide merchandise for auctions and they help out with the festival’s charitable causes.

Kristi Rivas and Keith Waters, business partners of Amherstburg’s Wigle Home Hardware, are once again providing financial support as a silver sponsor.

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“It’s a great event and we’re happy to be involved,” says Rivas. “It’s given our business some added exposure and we love the fact it’s such a family-friendly festival.

It brings a lot of people to town because there are a lot of dog owners and dog lovers out there.”

Of course, the whole event is a community effort with many businesses and organizations sponsoring certain sections and vendors taking part.

The following is a list (known at the time of writing) of sponsors and vendors. Please note certain sponsors may also have a booth on site, whereas others may have donated items or services and not be in attendance.

Platinum sponsors of the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest are: Biz X magazine, Oxford Learning Centre in LaSalle, AM800 CKLW and The Windsor Star. Silver sponsors are: Chalet Studio Photography, Wigle Home Hardware, Blackburn Radio, and Canadian Tire in Amherstburg.

Windsor Police Service K9 Unit, Lee E. L. Watson and Border City Barkers are event sponsors. Bronze sponsors are: Donna Jean Mayne Fine Sculptures, Stiemar Bakery and In Loving Memory of Tank.

Community sponsors who donated goods and services to enhance the festival and items for the silent auction include:

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Ruff Trade Ties, Amanda’s Pet Sitting Service, Aerus, Bark & Fitz, Horizon Pet Nutrition, Color Street, The Hungry Pooch, Skate Amherstburg, Emma’s Dog Treats, K&B Bracelets, Country Rose, Pawsitively a Dog Thing and Tupperware.

Other community sponsors include: For Your Fur Kids, TheraPaw Baths, Farmina Pet Foods, Katch My Drift, Jack & Oak Pet Accessories, Stellar Boutique, Hazel In Pink, Dogora Active Wear, Everyday Pretties, RE/Max, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, K9 PlayGRRRound, Lifetimes On Riverside Retirement Residence, Popper’s Kettle Corn, Ren’s Pets, Jump Realty and Reg’s Barkery.

The vendor list (with some community sponsors above) includes: Molly Maid, SweetLegs Windsor With Lynn, Cheesecake Babes, Katie Favell Pet Portraits, Hoof & Hound Photography, Stonepath, Doggie Delights, Weiser Essentials, Wiggle Wear, LG Custom Creations, Leaf Filter Gutter Protection, Down The Lane Designs, Nucelli’s Frozen Yogurt, Bubble Tea, Crossroads Canine Academy & Daycamp, Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation and Tailwagger’s Inn. Others vendors are: Allstate Insurance, Lucky Pups Bakery, Crime Stoppers and Mia’s Paws.

The entry fees are $10 for adults, $5 for

those between the ages of six and 16 and there is no charge for those under the age of five. Certain activities like the lure course, contests and challenges have a separate fee.

For more information visit: Woofaroo.com.

Kingsville Highland Games, June 25

This year’s edition of the Highland Games takes place in Lakeside Park, 315 Queen Street in Kingsville. Gates open at 8:30 a.m.

After a more than a 30 year hiatus, the games were resurrected in 2019 before taking another two year break because of pandemicrelated restrictions.

The Town of Kingsville is the proud sponsor of the games, which have been organized, and will be run by, a Committee of Council. The Committee, comprised of volunteers and a staff person, is chaired by Doug Plumb.

Plumb was instrumental in bringing the Highland Games back to Kingsville.

He developed a plan and budget, secured cooperation from the necessary participants and has been tireless in his efforts to produce a memorable event for all to enjoy.

“It’s a great event and it feels good to bring it back,” says Plumb. “It’s a family-friendly event for the most part with competitions, Scottish entertainment and sports during the day, before it switches over to an

This collage of photos, taken during the 2019 Kingsville Highland Games, shows from left: An athlete in the caber-toss event; a weight-over-bar competitor and a sheep-herding demonstration. Photos courtesy of the Town of Kingsville.

entertainment event in the evening hours.”

The event features a pipe band competition, a fun Highland dance competition, Scottish heavyweight events, a 5K Kilt Run/Walk, a tug-of-war competition, a Mayoral Haggis Hurl, a clan village, sheepherding demonstrations, a beer garden featuring local beers, (Banded Goose Brewery, Grove House Brewery and Kingsville Brewery), and Pelee Island Winery, food and merchandise vendors and activities for lads and lassies. As well, a Ceilidh (a traditional Scottish or Irish social gathering) features The Mudmen, Todd Porter and Steel City Rovers from 5:30 p.m. until 1 a.m.

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John Fairley, Vice-President of College Communications and Community Relations at St. Clair College, which is one of the sponsors, says the event enables the college to gain some exposure in the county.

“We’re involved with a lot of events in Windsor and Chatham and this is a great opportunity to expand our reach, especially in an area where a lot of employers take on our students for placements and fulltime hiring,” comments Fairley, who is also an emcee for the event with Jim Crichton and Joe McParland. “It’s also an opportunity for our alumni group to become involved in a county and community event.”

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St. Clair is sponsoring a number of the heavyweight events like the caber-toss, heavy hammer, heavyweight for distance, Braemar stone, lightweight for distance, light hammer, weight-over-bar, open stone and tossing a sheaf. They also sponsor the tug of war competition.

Carl Hulme, Co-owner with wife Rita of Blimeys British Store & Gift Shop in Essex, says co-sponsoring the festival is a natural fit for their business and its clientele.

“We’ve been involved in the past because it’s very appropriate,” says Hulme. “We’re sponsoring the sheep herding event this year, which is always a lot of fun for the dogs and the spectators.”

In addition to St. Clair College and Blimeys, this year’s sponsors include: Biz X magazine, Better Blinds, Windsor Family Credit Union, Zehrs, The Scottish Club of Windsor, Vision Realty, Sun Parlour Curling Club, Power Play Sports, Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County, St. Clair College Alumni Association, Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, Sunset/Mastronardi Produce, Tilbury Auto Mall and Anna’s Garden, Home & Wellness.

Other sponsors are: Kingsville Home Hardware Building Centre, Ernie’s TV, Film Camp for Kids & Youth, McDonald’s, Criminal Defence Lawyer Ken Marley, Wendy Musselman Realtor, Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, Windsor Regional Hospital and Men in Kilts Window Cleaning.

“There are also 40-plus vendors and we’ve done everything we can to ensure there is no competition between them,” explains Plumb. “The vast majority have a Celtic theme and I think everyone will be happy about what the games have to offer.”

A complete vendor list was still being finalized at press time.

Attendees are urged to bring their own lawn chairs. A parking shuttle runs until 5 p.m. from various parking locations across Kingsville.

Children under the age of 14 are admitted free. Tickets are $20 for adults and available on: Kingsville.ca/highlandgames.

Amherstburg Open Air Weekends Now Through October 2

Beginning on Fridays at 3 p.m. and continuing throughout the weekend until Sunday evening, streets in downtown Amherstburg are closed to vehicles, allowing pedestrians to stroll through the historic downtown to visit stores and restaurants.

These special Open Air Weekends are brought to you by Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island and the Government of

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however, wristbands and tickets for the rides can be purchased in advance on: WorldsFinestShows.com.

Please note this event is presented independently and is not connected to the Windsor Parade Corporation or the SummerFest brand.

The Taste Of Tecumseh Festival June 17 & 18 Owner Taelor Brouyette of Pink Pisces, a vintage furniture and local artisan shop at 64 Murray Street, downtown Amherstburg, is one of many businesses participating in the town’s Open Air Weekends with sidewalk retail sales. Outdoor patios for dining, street games and concerts are also on the agenda.

Photo courtesy of the Town of Amherstburg.

Canada. Learn more about the schedule on: VisitAmherstburg.ca.

LaSalle Strawberry Festival June 9 - 12

Running for over 30 plus years, for 2022 the LaSalle Strawberry Festival is held at the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex, 2121 Laurier Parkway in LaSalle, beginning with opening ceremonies at 6:15 p.m. on June 9.

The festival runs from 6 to 10 p.m. on opening night, from 3 to 11 p.m. on Friday, from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

What is there to see and do there?

Fireworks, a Mascot Dance Off Party, Flying Fools High Dive Show, entertainment by Kobbler Jay, rides, shopping at vendors and of course, the main highlight — eating delicious strawberries from Raymont’s Berries! And don’t forget the parade Saturday at 10 a.m. along Front Road from Old Front Road to Sacred Heart Drive!

There is also a full entertainment schedule with: Tayler Lynn, Leave Those Kids Alone, Madeline Doornaert and the Dane Roberts Band, Elton Sean (Elton John Tribute), Josh Johnson and many other talented performers hitting the stage.

Admission is $5 (or free if under the age of five or over the age of 65) with weekend passes, $12. Free parking is available in five municipal lots on a first-come, first-served basis.

For further details about tickets, ride coupons and an entertainment schedule, check: LaSalle.ca/strawberryfestival.

The Carnival At The Riverfront June 16 - July 3

The World’s Finest Shows midway is back with traditional carnival rides and games along the Riverfront Festival Plaza from June 16 to July 3.

There is no admission fee to the midway, BIZ X M AG A Z I N E • J U N E 2 0 2 2

Organized by the Optimist Club of St. Clair Beach, the Taste Of Tecumseh is back for its sixth season after a two year absence because of pandemic restrictions.

The two day event runs from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. each day at Lakewood Park, 13451 Riverside Drive East in Tecumseh. Weekend entertainment is provided by Bigg Wiggle.

Wine is available from Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, North 42 Degrees Estate Winery and Wineology among others. Beer is sold on site from Frank’s Brewing Co., Craft Heads Brewing Company and Walkerville Brewery, as well as spirits from Hiram Walker.

Food vendors offer slices of pizza, sushi, burgers, ice cream, a variety of delectable desserts and more. At the time of writing, participating businesses were still being determined, but the list does include: Nonna’s Pizza A Pezzi, Sushi Bar Lakeshore, Thirsty Butler, Slinky’s Ice Cream & Yogurt, The Cheese Bar, Gilligan’s Juice Bar and lots more of your favourite local restaurants!

Tickets are available in advance for $15 at: Eventbrite.ca/d/canada--windsor/taste-oftecumseh and for $18 on the day of the event.

There is limited onsite parking for $20 and shuttles run from Tecumseh Arena to the park.

For more information and an updated list of vendors, go to: TasteOfTecumseh.ca.

Carrousel Of Nations June 17 - 19 And June 24 - 26

After online events as Carrousel@Home in 2020 and 2021, this popular multicultural event returns to its traditional village format this year to continue a 46 year tradition.

“This year’s theme is ‘Discover Carrousel’,” says Event Co-Chair and the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County (MCC) President Allison Johnson. “It’s an invitation to join millions of visitors who have enjoyed world-class performance groups, cultural displays, traditional music and the best part — iconic festival food.”

The event is presented by the MCC and individual ethnic communities, with support from the Government of Canada, the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, Windsor Family Credit Union,

LiUNA! 625, the Municipality of Leamington, and Sirved.

“Carrousel of Nations has long been a mainstay of the region’s summer festival season, celebrating the diversity and cultural identities of the ethnic groups of Windsor Essex,” says Fred Francis, MCC Executive

Director. “We are excited for the festival to return to the in-person format so that our community can immerse themselves in the culture and traditions that make our community unique.”

Find a list of villages and hours of operation on: CarrouselOfNations.com.

Saint Jean-Baptiste Festival, June 24

For two weekends in June, Carrousel of the Nations — the only ethnic and multicultural festival in the region — exposes visitors to a variety of cultures and traditions at over 15 villages scattered across the local area.

Accompanying photo is of a performer with the Nupur Jhankar classical Indian dance group at a previous Carrousel Village. Photo courtesy of the MCC.

The region’s Francophone community celebrates Saint Jean-Baptiste Day (June 24) at the Ciociaro Club Outdoor Pavilion, 3745 North Talbot Road in Oldcastle, beginning at 5 p.m.

A lobster and steak dinner is served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets ($30 New York Steak BBQ dinner; $45 Lobster dinner; vegetarian options also offered) are available by calling Le Centre Communautaire Francophone WindsorEssex-Kent (CCFWEK).

Other than the paid portion for the dinner, the event is free for all to attend.

Between 7 and 9 p.m. there is a French musical concert performed by Mélanie Côté and Donavon LeNabat, followed by a performance from Bigg Wiggle, from 9 p.m. to midnight.

For more information check out: CCFWEK.org/en/events/stjbaptist.

Amusez-vous bien!

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This year, the Francophone community celebrates Saint Jean-Baptiste Day at the Ciociaro Club Outdoor Pavilion on June 24. There is no charge for the musical entertainment portion, but there is a cost for the dinner beforehand. Shown is the 2022 entertainment headliner Bigg Wiggle, who performed at the 2019 event.

Photo courtesy of CCFWEK.

Riverfront Fireworks Party, June 27; Windsor’s Canada Day Parade, July 1

Headlining the summer in the city is the return of the Windsor Riverfront Fireworks party, presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation (WPP)! Held at The Bistro at the River, 75 Riverside Drive West on June 27 (rain date June 28), the party gets underway at 6 p.m.

Coupled with the best view of the event, there is an amazing dinner buffet planned along with appetizers, a wine tasting and entertainment in addition to a preshow podcast (The Arms Bumanlag Project)

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and live on-air broadcasts (with Dan MacDonald/AM800 CKLW) during the evening. Tickets are $160.15 and can be purchased through Eventbrite through: WindsorParade.org.

The Canada Day Parade on July 1 at 11 a.m., also presented by the WPP, includes new Family Fun Zones along the route, which runs west on Wyandotte Street from Devonshire Road to Aylmer Avenue.

Special Canada Day cupcakes are available along the route at participating retailers. It’s sponsored in part by the Wyandotte Town Centre and the Government of Canada.

To see the full parade route and an entry application go to their website: WindsorParade.org/canada-day.

Canada Day In Amherstburg, July 1

Amherstburg’s Canada Day activities, sponsored by the Windsor Family Credit Union and funded by the Government of Canada, begin at 8 a.m. with the opening

On July 1 at 11 a.m., the mighty machines and Amherstburg fire trucks take to the streets as part of the town’s Canada Day activities. Photo courtesy of the Town of Amherstburg.

of the splash pad in Toddy Jones Park.

Additional activities include the arrival of Mighty Machines with Amherstburg Fire Department fire trucks at 11 a.m., a selection of food trucks that begin serving at 11 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at noon.

In the afternoon, there are magician and Super Hero shows and development of a

Community Mural at noon; a performance by the River Towne Dance Academy and a chance to meet with the Amherstburg Admirals hockey team, both at 12:30 p.m.

Evening entertainment features musician Adam Butcher on stage at Fort Malden National Historic Site followed by the Buck Twenty band and then fireworks at dusk.

For further details, refer to the website: VisitAmherstburg.ca.

Tecumseh Centennial, July 2 - 4

This three day event is spread out throughout the Town of Tecumseh and neighbouring communities to showcase the past, present and future, while focusing on 100 years of history.

It all begins July 2 at sunrise with a First Nations Sunrise Ceremony at Lakewood Park’s North Beach and continues all day long with events, including a Memorial Walk, opening ceremonies and open house at town

Join The Town Of Tecumseh In Celebrating Its Centennial Anniversary, July 2, 3 & 4, 2022 Activities take place across three historic communities that make up the town today. The community is invited to attend all celebrations and can learn more on: Tecumseh.ca/tecumseh100 The following local businesses and organizations extend their congratulations to the town and look forward to serving the needs of its residents for many more years to come.

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hall, an agricultural exhibit at Fire Hall #2 at 5520 Walker Road, a historical sports exhibit at Lacasse Park, a birthday party at Lakewood Park, a First Nations evening ceremony and finally, fireworks.

On July 3, the day kicks off with the unveiling of a mural celebrating the Canadian Armed Forces, the poppy and the first Mayor, Dr. Paul Poisson; a pancake breakfast at Legion Branch 261; a Tecumseh Area Historical Society open house and historical exhibit; a firefighter combat challenge; St. Clair Beach Historical Society exhibit; a bike rally/glow ride; a Truth and Reconciliation conversation, and an outdoor movie night featuring the film Indian Horse at Optimist Park.

On the final day, July 4, there is a free swim at Tecumseh’s Leisure Pool, Lacasse Park in the morning, followed by an open house at St. Anne’s Church. Afterwards enjoy a musical celebration and First Nations Honour Guard at L’Essor High School to wrap up the weekend.

For a complete list of event times, locations and local businesses and organizations sponsoring this special celebration, view: Tecumseh.ca/tecumseh100.

Essex Fun Fest, July 7 - 10

This year, the Essex Fun Fest is scheduled

to take place at the Essex Centre Sports Complex (60 Fairview Avenue East in Essex), after a two year absence. It is presented

by Essex Countryside Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep; Ken Knapp Ford and Jeff Smith’s County Chevrolet.

“The committee is excited that we are able to stage this event again this summer,” says Joe Garon, Chairperson of the Fun Fest committee. “The town and area look forward to this event every summer and it’s great that we can finally host it again.”

It’s been running since 1988 and has evolved into one of the largest family-friendly festivals in Windsor and Essex County with entertainment and activities for all ages — featuring everything from the Craz-E-Crew Stunt Team, fireworks, a Kids Zone, Youth Talent Showcase, amusement rides and more.

For park admission fees, hours and a complete list of activities and entertainment, check: EssexFunFest.com.

Belle River-On -The-Lake Sunsplash Festival, July 14 - 17

It’s the 25th anniversary of this familyfriendly event held in Lakeview Park right on the lake.

The fun includes a midway with rides and amusements for children beginning on Thursday, a Classic Car Cruise on Friday

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and a performance by Leave Those Kids Alone in the Lakeview Park amphitheatre on Friday night. There are also food, beverage and merchandise booths set up throughout the park.

For a full line-up of activities and times, visit: BelleRiverBia.com/sunsplash-festival.

A group of friends enjoy a meal outside during Open Air Weekends in Amherstburg last year. Photo courtesy of The Town of Amherstburg.

Live In The Moment

Whether it’s listening to local musicians, participating in contests (perhaps a tug of war for yourself and the family dog in a lure course), feasting on specialty foods or the thrills of an amusement ride, there’s a festival for you and your family happening right now!

So put the last two years in the past where they belong . . . there’s no time like the present to take in as many events as you can!

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tech bytes

Four Trends That Could Have A Massive Impact On Tourism Businesses In Windsor Essex

By Adriano Ciotoli, WindsorEats

T

o say COVID has had a monstrous impact on small businesses in tourism would be a massive understatement.

To put it bluntly, 2020 and 2021 were a nightmare and we are fully expecting and preparing for the 2022 tourism season to be somewhat similar. But it’s not all doom and gloom! There are still beacons of opportunity shining through the cracks waiting for someone to identify and latch on to.

So what trends are we expecting to impact Windsor Essex tourism in 2022?

1. Experiential tourism is far from new and has been happening for many years now, but it’s still growing.

Did you know that 73% of our vivid memories (Ideas.Ted.com January 14, 2020) come from first-time experiences or unique events? This is an important cue for companies looking to make themselves memorable to customers who have been experience-deprived during the pandemic.

For WindsorEats, we believe it’s about engaging, educating, inspiring and evoking emotions. It’s about taking our guests beyond the traditional tourist activities and immersing guests within the stories themselves, creating and building emotional connections between you, your story, your product and your guests.

2. Destination DNA is vital.

According to Destination Think: “Simply stated, a destination’s DNA is the definition of its intrinsic character, the meaning that people ascribe to it, or more often, a mixture of both elements . . . the DNA definition of your place is the essential

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authenticity test for all your marketing.”

We think it’s absolutely great to be niche.

In fact it’s encouraged, because when you try to be everything to everyone, you become nothing to no one.

The belief that WindsorEats, and many tourism experts around the globe follow, is that identifying and embracing your unique selling proposition is key to paving the roadway to success. Focus on what truly separates you from the crowd and absolutely own it.

Through our research, WindsorEats has identified a unique tourism identifier that can set Windsor apart, making us a top of mind destination . . . whisky.

Whisky tourism is booming and as a result, since 2015, WindsorEats’ goal has been to create a foundation of whisky experiences complementing our region’s unique DNA and history through developing experiential tourism, marketing and branding Windsor as Whiskytown Canada.

3. Revenge travel could potentially be a major issue for Windsor Essex.

What is revenge travel? It’s the act of making up for lost time, as well as lost opportunities. With so many birthdays, weddings, honeymoons, and vacations having been missed out on during the pandemic, many people are looking to make up for all the things we missed and the lost time and they’re expected to strike back with a vengeance to check off their bucket lists.

A recent survey by The Vacationer found that more than a quarter of people plan to

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travel more than they used to post‑COVID, and another report from TripAdvisor.com, revealed that more than a third of travellers say travelling to a destination they have not previously visited is more important now than ever before.

People exploring, in this instance, might not be a good thing for Windsor Essex. We could see a struggle in attracting Ontarians from north of Chatham. There’s also a belief American visitors from Michigan and Ohio will be very slow returning, which could result in a reduced number of visitors to our region. Throw in that Windsorites will likely be escaping to other destinations to achieve their own revenge travel and it doesn’t paint the prettiest of pictures for local tourism businesses.

4. Great Lakes cruising is about to boom.

WindsorEats has been dealing with cruise ship dockings in Windsor and Detroit for over 10 years now and we see this as a missed opportunity, as well as a potential one, to redeem ourselves.

The big players in the industry are bullish on Great Lakes cruising. 2022 should see the start of a massive boom in Great Lakes cruising with six brands scheduled to set sail this spring and summer, with many others in the process of completing or starting new ship builds just for cruising.

Estimates put passenger capacity up approximately 40%, for 2022.

It’s extremely vital to know that these cruise ships are not a one-size fits all solution, as they each want to be able to offer something

truly unique and exclusive for their customers. It is integral to be in tune with what their needs are.

As an example, we have the great award winning EPIC wine region here, but when the ships are already docking in Niagara and visiting wineries there, offering a repeat experience isn’t going to do well for you in attracting dockings and excursions. The focus has got to be about what the customer wants and not what meets your wants.

Within these trends, Windsor Essex has an opportunity to reinvent itself and its image, post pandemic. We need to build a structure that positively showcases our tourism champions, not just to visitors, but also to other tourism partners, while providing them with a path to achieve the same success and exposure through training and development. It’s about raising, not just our ceiling, but more importantly, also our floor.

Tech Bytes is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com).

The columnist for this edition, Adriano Ciotoli is the founder and co-owner of WindsorEats (along with his sister Pina) and a past Tourism Champion of the Year for Ontario. He is a food and drink tourism expert with a proven track record of helping organizations and businesses generate new and increased revenue through enhanced experiences and marketing. On top of talking the talk and helping others, Adriano also walks the walk, creating many unforgettable, immersive experiences through WindsorEats, that his guests rave about, including the Wine Trail Ride cycling tours, named best culinary tourism experience in Ontario, and the Drinks of Walkerville, named an Ontario Signature Experience. WindsorEats is a past winner of the Culinary Tourism Leadership Award by the Ontario Culinary Tourism Alliance, Innovator of the Year by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, and more recently, the Best Small-Medium Sized Tourism Business in Canada by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. Learn more on: WindsorEats.com.

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BIZ X M AG A Z I N E • J U N E 2 0 2 2

Navigating Through 2022 PART II

By Steven Mayo Do you have to sell? his wife asked.

“NO”. Do you leverage or buy on margin?

“NO”. Are you invested in good companies?

“YES”. Then go back to sleep!

In my May article I wrote that the first six months of 2022 were likely to be volatile and the markets were dealing with a lot of negative headlines: Russia-Ukraine, interest rates hikes, rising inflation, the sixth-wave, China lockdowns, higher oil and commodity prices etc.

At the end of the article the main message was to not be scared out of the market, but to look at the sectors that provided buying opportunities, such as financials, transportation, healthcare, industrials and manufacturing.

As I write this article (mid-May), these are the current headlines (please keep in mind that “talking heads” have to be dramatic and provide shock and awe). . .

-Nasdaq on track for worst month since October 2008. This only matters if you only own technology stocks.

-Worst bond market in 40 years. Of course . . . bond prices go down when interest rates increase (from historically low levels).

-S&P 500 on track for worst month since 2020. Makes sense since a pandemic was declared in March 2020.

We must always keep perspective. Stock indices are always fluctuating because of the way they are constructed. It is rather a stock’s price that is most important in determining if it is a timely buying opportunity.

In reality, and especially in times like this (rising interest rate environment), I primarily concentrate on businesses that have a strong cash flow story.

The stock market is a collection of good businesses, mediocre businesses, and speculative/unproven businesses.

If an investor chooses the third and/ or fourth group, then they should expect casino-like returns.

Investing within the first two groups, over time, will see reduced volatility, dividend growth, and risk appropriate returns.

In the short-run the market can be volatile, but in the long-run it is a wealth creator. One of my colleagues expressed it best: “Buy best of breed, buy good . . . getting better.”

There was actually positive news in April that was almost forgotten by the end of the month. Earnings reported were good, and many companies announced dividend increases and stock buy-backs. This is what investors should focus on.

As we now approach the second half of 2022, an investor has time to be patient and opportunistic. Remember, stocks bottom out on bad news, not good news.

In closing, consider this quote from Grit Capital: “Remember, owning stocks is risky in the short run. But not owning stocks is risky in the long run.”

Steven Mayo is a Senior 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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THE PARENTING BIZ

The Mama & Family Expo Returns For A Sixth Year More space, more activities and an extra day of shopping this June!

By Jim Murphy Photos courtesy of In Depth Productions, unless marked

W

e all know it takes a village to raise a family, but occasionally it feels like we’re doing it alone. Have no fear, help is here!

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, The Mama & Family Expo — presented by Three Lambs Registry & Baby Boutique — is bringing the village back to parenting in Windsor and Essex County.

This year’s one-of-a-kind family trade show takes place at the Tecumseh Arena, 12021 McNorton Street, for two days — Friday, June 24 from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, June 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Attendees come to find and shop for the finest pregnancy and parenting essentials, while being treated to samples, pampering, swag and workshops.

Friday is geared toward parents.

While kids are welcome, this night features pampering, giveaways, speakers, entertainment and craft stations — all for adults. Moms and dads are encouraged to come out and bring their friends for a fun evening.

Saturday is family day and features programming, contests and activities for the entire family!

Teanna McKay, Producer of The Mama & Family Expo, is proud of the relationship they have built with the community over the years.

“The Mama & Family Expo has a proven track record and we continue to strive to make our Expo and parenting event stand out as a leader in our community for a place to find top products, businesses and service providers for parents and their families,” she expresses. “We seek new and innovative partners who will improve our event and further our mission of providing a social experience through offering shopping, pampering, services, sampling and other activities.”

According to McKay, exhibitors are carefully vetted through an application process, which allows them to curate the very best possible businesses that will help build their vision.

“For 2022 we are excited to move to Tecumseh Arena,” says McKay. “This larger space is all on one level making it easier for strollers and small children, plus it provides larger aisles for shopping and more space to have lots of new activities!”

The increase in show space also allows

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Carolyn Humphrey and Paige Elizabeth attend a past Mama & Family Expo, wearing their babies and ready to shop!

for more exhibitors, including the best products in baby and maternity, sleep wellness specialists, health and wellness professionals, pampering services such as infant massage and beauty products, handmade items including one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories, and décor, child care, education and community programs.

In addition, there are plenty of cool companies in the Exhibitor Village with interesting products and services.

Embrace Dental Hygiene is conducting free dental checks for children. The Beadiva is doing on-site DIY workshops of their Mommy and Me bracelets. Music For Young Children is offering music classes (obviously LOL!) and performances during the event and The Art Lab has a slime bar for the kids.

The 2022 Expo also features new activities and areas including . . .

The Main Stage featuring celebrity influencers, health and wellness seminars, musical entertainment, interactive how-toBIZ X M AG A Z I N E • J U N E 2 0 2 2

demos, all sponsored by The School House Academy Daycare Services.

A new Health, Wellness & Pampering Pavilion where attendees can find exhibitors who want the best for you inside and out, sponsored by Shred Shop Wellness Complex + Elevate Health Boutique Inc., has also been added.

Since the Expo is all about family members having a fun and comfortable time while they visit from booth to booth, The Comfort Cabana features an infant feeding lounge and private change tables. This is thanks to two sponsors, Knowledge First Financial and Rana Eye Care.

The Enchanted Castle is sponsored by The Kids Shoppe, The Balloon Artist and Biz X magazine. It is a magical kingdom complete with a fairy tale décor where kids — big or small — can meet their favourite storybook characters. Guests enter the balloon castle to find the classic storybook princesses and princes from Evermore Princess Parties, who provide story time,

THE PARENTING BIZ

Teanna McKay, Producer of The Mama & Family Expo poses with her young twins in 2021. Photo courtesy of Sarah Ann Photography.

colouring pages, crafts, sing-a-longs and photo-ops.

“The Dad Den” was created for the men in a child’s life and is an area housing activities and seminars just for them. This special section has a lounge and is packed with experts (like the Fantastic Fathers Community Group), products and services for the modern dad.

As well, a number of local makers are on site, with one-of-a-kind products,

handmade with love, sponsored by the Urban Art Market.

Over $1,000 in Mama Expo Dollars from the Motor City Community Credit Union are being given away to be spent at the event! Plus, free swag bags go to the first 100 people in attendance on both Friday and Saturday.

One day passes are $5 in advance and $10 at the door. Weekend passes valid for both Friday and Saturday are $8 in advance and $15 at the door on Friday. Children under 12 can attend at no charge on both days.

Tickets are available online and in local stores such as: Three Lambs Registry & Baby Boutique (see address in their section to follow); The Kids Shoppe (see address in their section to follow); the Urban Art Market (548 Chilver Road, Windsor) and Baby Envy Boutique (1645 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor).

The Expo also supports a charitable cause. A portion of the ticket sales are going directly to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwestern Ontario. The Red Shoe Society of Windsor-Essex has a booth and Kids Craft Table on site, with volunteers collecting donations as well.

As for health and safety policies, McKay and her team are dedicated to creating a safe environment for attendees and exhibitors.

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As we live and adapt to a post-COVID-19 world, masks and face coverings are recommended for everyone aged two and older.

“We are increasing our cleaning schedule and will be disinfecting high-touch and hightraffic areas multiple times a day,” indicates McKay. “We have a one-way directional flow, sanitizer stations throughout the event and large aisles to allow for physical distancing.”

You can keep up to date with the latest information about the event on the website: TheMamaExpo.ca.

But first, until the Expo opens its doors to the public, let’s fill you in a bit more about these partners, sponsors and supporters.

The companies are also some of the vendors you and your family can meet when visiting The Mama & Family Expo this June.

Presenting Partner: Three Lambs Registry & Baby Boutique

Located at 13444 Tecumseh Road East in the St. Clair Beach Plaza (Manning Road and Tecumseh Road East), Three Lambs

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THE PARENTING BIZ Jodoin adds: “It’s also an opportunity to introduce people to our wonderful curation of fabulous products and friendly service.”

Want to know more? Visit the website: ThreeLambs.ca and their booth at the Expo!

Sponsor: The Kids Shoppe

The booth for presenting partner, Three Lambs Registry & Baby Boutique is pictured at a previous Expo. Visit their booth this year to chat with staff about all the must-have mommy and baby essentials.

Registry & Baby Boutique specializes in all things baby, including — but not limited to — nursery furnishings and décor, baby shower registries, strollers, car seats, clothing, toys, gifts and more.

“We strive to offer the best products at the best prices, and try our best to curate products for everyone’s style, budget and needs,” says Jeanine Jodoin, Owner of Three Lambs Registry & Baby Boutique who began the

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business in 2015. “We offer concierge style shopping experiences for those in a hurry, and free registry consultations and registry creation services. We are also the area’s largest nursery furniture showroom!”

Jodoin tells Biz X she has participated in the Expo in the past and is excited to be this year’s presenting partner.

“The Mama & Family Expo is a great way to engage with the community,” she believes.

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Searching for Windsor’s premier children’s and maternity resale shop? Look no further than a locally owned and operated business, The Kids Shoppe found at 2950 Dougall Avenue in Windsor.

Established in 2015, The Kids Shoppe buys and sells new and gently-used children’s clothing, toys, books, baby gear and maternity clothing.

“We offer sellers the opportunity to recycle nearly-new items and get paid on the spot,” says Klara Pardal, Owner of The Kids Shoppe. “Savvy shoppers can browse an immense range of items, from clothing to toys to strollers to home décor, all up to 70 percent off regular retail!”

Her business is always in attendance

THE PARENTING BIZ curriculum,” states Maureen Garvin, Owner of The School House Academy. “A School-Age Campus, as well as Registered Early Childhood Educators throughout the centre, teach an advanced curriculum to prepare the children for elementary school.”

Come out and visit their booth at the Expo to learn more about all they have to offer and a chance to win raffle prizes.

You can also check them out online at: TheSchoolHouseAcademy.com.

at The Mama & Family Expo in order to stay abreast of the latest happenings and innovations in the baby and motherhood industry. Find out further details about this company on: TheKidsShoppe.ca.

Sponsor: The School House Academy Daycare Services

Sponsor: Rana Eye Care The School House Academy Daycare Services attends The Mama & Family Expo every year to provide families with information on registering their children (up to age 12) in their quality facilities.

Along with providing exceptional quality child care in Windsor for infant, toddler, preschool and school age children, The School House Academy has two state-of-the-art facilities located at 3450 Ypres Avenue (opened in 2016) and 1235 Grand Marais Road West in Windsor (The School House Early Learning Centre, open since 2013).

“Our main 20,000 square foot facility (Ypres Avenue) includes a safari area, marketplace, cafeteria, library, science lab,

Join the Evermore Princess Parties in The Enchanted Castle sponsored by The Kids Shoppe, The Balloon Artist and Biz X magazine. Children can enjoy activities, sing-a-longs, crafts and photos with their favourite story book characters.

garden centre, tech areas, engineering area, six large outdoor playgrounds, two indoor playgrounds, plus a beautiful large classroom implementing Montessori and Emilio Reggio philosophy within our

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Since 2017, Rana Eye Care, 1303 County Road 22, Unit 170 in Belle River, has been involved in The Mama & Family Expo.

“I love seeing kids and doing their eye exams” says Dr. Kreeshna Rana, Owner of Rana Eye Care. “I actually find them fun and I take satisfaction in discovering issues early on to improve eyesight in the future.”

She adds: “Plus, The Mama & Family Expo is a great way to meet new moms and soon to be moms.”

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THE PARENTING BIZ Opened in 2015, Rana Eye Care’s eight employees specialize in full comprehensive eye exams, infant/children exams, contact lenses fit and train, Lasik referrals, and full dispensary for eyeglasses for all budgets.

For more information, visit their booth at The Mama & Family Expo or view their website: RanaEyeCare.com.

Long-time Supporter: CST Savings Inc.

Sponsor: Shred Shop Wellness Complex Jillian and Edison Smith, along with Chris Fuerth, smile for the camera after cheering on a friend entered in a contest at the 2019 Mama & Family Expo.

With two locations — 815 Erie Street East in Windsor and 6020 Malden Road in LaSalle — the Shred Shop Wellness Complex is a female-owned and operated group training facility and wellness complex.

They offer group fitness classes, yoga, oneon-one personal training, injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, pre and post-natal training, nutritional health (overseen by an on-staff Registered Holistic Practitioner specializing in fat loss solutions, disordered eating, anti-aging and menopause) and Reiki energy healing.

“Our facility is equipped with a built-in clinic offering massage therapy, chiropractic service, natural cosmetic services, warm yoga and nutritionist and Reiki Master,” describes Sawyer Telegdy, President and Owner of the Shred Shop Wellness Complex. “Our fitness circuits include both resistance-based movements and cardio intervals. We create the optimal metabolic demand for overall conditioning, meaning we melt stubborn body fat while building lean muscle tissue at the same time.”

Telegdy tells Biz X it is their staff of seven personal/group trainers, one yoga specialist and one nutritionist, plus their one-on-one training experience that really

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sets them apart from others in their industry.

“Our coaches are certified in injury prevention, injury rehabilitation and pre and post-natal training,” she notes. “Our goal is to fuel healthy pregnancies, attaining everyday nutritional health goals, address disordered eating and manage aging and menopause.”

The Shred Shop Wellness Complex has been involved in The Mama & Family Expo since the business opened in 2018.

“Due to our staff being pre/post natal certified, it’s crucial that new moms and pregnant moms know the importance of remaining active during and after their pregnancy,” says Telegdy. “The Mama & Family Expo is a great place to bring awareness to new moms about how our facility is built to keep them safe while training, guide them nutritionally for an optimal birthing/breast feeding experience and support them mentally during the stressful times of new motherhood.”

Look for Telegdy at the Expo (sharing a space with Elevate Health Boutique) who is speaking there about the importance of pre, during and post-natal care, overcoming “mom guilt” and time and expectation management.

After or before the Expo, for more information on Telegdy’s business see the website: ShredShop.ca.

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For over 60 years, CST Savings has offered a reliable way to save for a child’s post-secondary education with a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), specializing in helping parents and grandparents register a child for an RESP. “We can also help you collect free government grants,” states Laurie Grant, Sales Representative at CST Savings.

“These grants include the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) which is $7,200, and the Canada Learning Bond (CLB) which is $2,000 for post-secondary education.”

Grant has been involved with the Expo for six years in order to help more families secure a future for their children.

She points out. “I will be at the Expo this year giving away children’s books.”

For more information on the company refer to: CSTResp.com/2931.

The Expo Is Back & Better Than Ever

The Mama & Family Expo for 2022 is going to be one amazing event, filled with lots of shopping, socializing, learning opportunities and chances for mamas and papas to be pampered too!

With over 75 businesses and organizations in attendance — including the ones profiled above and others such as: Rock-A-Bye Baby Boutique, Little Kickers WindsorEssex County, Terra Green Gardens, Kristy’s Custom Cakes, Little Foot Foods, Wee Watch Licensed Home Child Care, Peekabloom Baby Accessories, LD Media and more — a larger venue and so many giveaways and activities, your family can’t afford to miss it this June!

THE PARENTING BIZ FUN & GAMES

It’s A Home Run For Farrow Riverside Miracle Park

By Karen Hall

Photos by Rod Denis

M

ay 14 turned out to be a beautiful sunny day in Olde Riverside, and after the official grand opening of the Farrow Riverside Miracle Park, members of the inaugural Miracle League were more than ready to play their first game on the new ball field. But not before observing one of their teammate’s time-honoured warm-up traditions.

As 400 spectators stood watching, the song YMCA filled the Farrow Riverside Miracle Park. Players began to sing, dance and clap — their signal that it was time to get out there and have a blast.

There was no question they did, as kids and their baseball buddies began to travel the bases while their fans looked on.

Some players used wheelchairs or walkers to reach their destination, and no two people were happier to see City of Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens throw out the first pitch than Rick Farrow and

Many of the major donors to the Farrow Riverside Miracle Park were on hand to celebrate the grand opening, and to watch kids take their turn at bat at the inaugural Miracle League game in Riverside. Among them, from left: Don Warner of Shriners Windsor, which funded the workout stations; Adam and Dane Quinn, whose family provided the Quinn Pavilion; Alex Toldo of the Toldo Foundation, which funded the Toldo Wellness Track; Rick and Donna Farrow, whose $500,000 contribution launched the project, and Harry Bell, of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities.

More than 400 people came out to cheer on the players.

Several generations of the Solcz Family joined spectators and other donors at the grand opening of the Farrow Riverside Miracle Park. Mike Solcz Sr. (third from left) was an early and generous supporter of the project, and the Miracle Field is named for the Solcz Family Foundation. The state-of-the-art rubberized field is designed to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, allowing kids and young adults to join in and play ball, regardless of their abilities.

Bill Kell, who co-chaired the committee that turned a dream for a state-of-the-art, all-inclusive park into a Riverside reality.

The Miracle Diamond is the last of a phased concept that took five years to build. Weather and pandemic restrictions and setbacks caused a two year delay, but the park now includes a 13,000-squarefoot accessible playground, a wellness track, workout stations and, with the City of Windsor, a renovated pool, change rooms and washrooms.

“Farrow Riverside Miracle Park represents the best of what a community can achieve when we all work together in partnership to improve neighbourhoods and raise the quality of life for all residents,” says City of Windsor Councillor Jo-Anne Gignac, who dedicated $100,000 in ward funds to the project.

The goal has always been to make sure that any child or young adult who wants to play baseball can do so, regardless of their ability or where they live in Windsor and Essex County. Players must register to play in the league, but the park itself is open to all.

For those who wonder, the day wasn’t as much about keeping score as scoring new friends. Organizers did however, provide some numbers, and they go like this: Number of hotdogs barbecued: 450.

Bottles of water served: 500. Cookies gobbled up: also 500. Number of smiling faces: Every single one!

Farrow Riverside Miracle Park is located at 6755 Wyandotte Street East and online at: FarrowRiversideMiraclePark.com.

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THE PARENTING BIZ FROM THE BOOKSHELF

New Children’s Book Series Addresses Growing Childhood Anxiety

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hile we teach children strategies to positively manage their emotions, we can also have fun by beaming off with them to a planet made of crystals!

Former Superintendent of Education Lynn McLaughlin and her niece Amber Raymond, a practicing social worker and owner of MESSS Makers, have launched a children’s book series called The Power of Thought.

They are passionate about this proactive work based on professional, personal experiences and the growing number of children, teenagers, and adults struggling with anxiety.

The duo created an imaginary planet called Tezra where childlike beings hover and are not identifiable by gender. The characters glow in the colour of how they are feeling, because they haven’t learned to control or recognize them in others yet.

In their first book — I Have Choices — Zirco (the main character) feels worried and scared, but learns a four-step strategy to find happiness and build confidence.

Nine additional books will be published in the coming months.

The co-authors are thrilled to introduce an extremely talented illustrator, Allysa Batin, a graduate of Kennedy Collegiate and currently attending the University of Windsor in the Concurrent Bachelor of Education and Visual Arts Program.

McLaughlin shares: “Allysa’s creativity has taken these books to a level Amber and I could never have imagined.”

Available in French and English, the series is designed to give children (age four to 10 years old) the tools they need to

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Authors Amber Raymond (left) and her aunt, Lynn McLaughlin aim to help teach kids fun ways to handle their emotions. Photo courtesy of Michelle Cassidy.

overcome worry and anxiety, in a practical, enjoyable way.

“They will not only understand their emotions, but learn how to express themselves properly and use problemsolving strategies for everyday problems,” Raymond explains.

Each book includes an evidence-based strategy children can use and adults can learn to model, an excellent resource for parents, guardians, and educators.

Additional activities are available to reinforce the concept in every book.

When our children have emotional literacy, they are self-aware and can recognize their own emotions by the signs they know. They also develop selfcompassion, giving themselves the same kindness they show to good friends.

When children can put themselves in someone else’s shoes and understand what they are going through, they are able to be empathetic and connect with people

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Alien Amber (left) and Alien Lynn as Tezranians.

on a deeper level, becoming more helpful, involved, and invested in others.

I Have Choices/J’ai des choix books are available at local stores, which include: Storytellers Bookstore, 1473 Ottawa Street and Biblioasis, 1520 Wyandotte Avenue East, both in Windsor, and The River Bookshop, 67 Richmond Street in Amherstburg.

Further information about the book series is available online at: LynnMcLaughlin.com /the-power-of-thought-series.

THE PARENTING BIZ HEALTH MATTERS

Have A Child In Grade 7 To 12?

Get Them Immunized Supplied By The WECHU

Is your child born between 2004 and 2009 and attends school in Windsor-Essex County?

If you answered “yes”, then it’s time to check your child’s immunization record to ensure they are up to date on their vaccine series for Hepatitis B, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Meningococcal disease.

As per The Immunization of School Pupils Act (Ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i01), the Meningococcal vaccine is a required vaccine to attend school in Ontario. If you are not sure whether your child is up to date, you can call the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) at 519-258-2146 extension 1222.

Where can your child go to receive their missed vaccines?

The WECHU is hosting student catchup immunization clinics across each municipality throughout the summer months. Available locations, dates, and times are available on the booking website:

WECHU.org/getimmunized. Appointments can also be made by calling 519-258-2146 extension 4500.

Has your child already received these vaccines through your healthcare provider?

Students usually receive these vaccines at school-based clinics from the health unit.

During the pandemic, healthcare providers were able to order these vaccines for their eligible patients. If your child received these vaccines from their health care provider, remember to report it to the WECHU through their secure online portal at: Immune.WECHU.org.

Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) are responsible for updating the WECHU each time their child receives immunizations from their healthcare provider. The healthcare provider is not required to send this information to the health unit.

What if your child is not up to date before the 2022-23 school year?

Ensuring that students have an opportunity

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to complete their vaccine series prior to the 202223 school year, is a priority for the WECHU. If your child is not up to date or does not have a valid exemption on file with the WECHU ahead of the school year, your child could receive a future suspension notice.

In order to avoid this, book an appointment today!

Questions? Then call the WECHU at the number listed in the first column or send an e-mail to: csh@wechu.org.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), in partnership with other agencies and health care providers, seeks to enable all Windsor and Essex County residents to be as healthy as possible. The Health Unit is located at 1005 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor and online at: WECHU.org.

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ask the experts

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

The Latest Buzz About Mosquitoes And Spiders

By Dave Halliday

Photos By Rod Denis

W

hen warmer weather arrives, it seems that our world becomes more active.

The neighbours emerge from their homes and there is generally a distinct buzz in the air! Unfortunately, the increased activity can be the variety that encases your home and surroundings in webbing and the buzz can be attributed to an emerging mosquito population.

What can you do though?

Spiders, ticks, mosquitoes, and every other variety of crawling or flying tiny bugs, are just an uncontrollable aspect of living on this planet . . . or is it?

Obviously, these aggravating, and at times threatening pests, also play a role in our ecosystem, but what if you could provide a barrier against them to make your living areas more enjoyable?

We at Biz X were very fortunate to discuss the merits of pest control with not one, but two, of the local leaders in pest control, operating their businesses for over three years.

Cody Howard, Owner and Structural Exterminator of The Spider Guys (1501 Howard Avenue, Unit 106R; TheSpiderGuys.com) and Colin Kwiatkowski, Co-Owner of The Mosquito Guard (923 Front Road North, Amherstburg; MosquitoGuard.ca) were kind enough to share their combined expertise on this pesky matter at hand.

The team at The Spider Guys, from left, are: Yvonne Khadra, Office Assistant; Dominika Szewczyk, Helper; Colin McMahon, Owner/Landscape Specialist; David “Spiderman” Zelko, Exterminator; Walter Senko, Owner/Mosquito and Biting Fly Specialist; and Cody Howard, Owner and Structural Exterminator. The company offers year-round protection and affordable subscription plans for customers.

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Let’s now creep into this topic and hopefully unravel any web of uncertainties that our more uneasy readers might possess.

First up . . . The Spider Guys!

Give us an idea of what The Spider Guys does. “We are a general pest control company that offers a wide range of services, from spider control to wildlife,” Howard indicates. “We focus on a customer service centred approach to business that provides an unbeatable customer experience.”

Would your service include inspection of a potential issue? “Yes, we offer inspection services from a background in entomology,” informs Howard adding, “Integrated pest management programs are catered carefully and with consideration to insect habits. We endeavour to leave each client feeling educated and confident they made the right pest control choice.”

What are the risks associated with spider infestations? “We generally consider this field to be cosmetic,” he replies. “The most common risks are associated with phobias and reactive accidents after walking into webs — or fear. However, in some rare cases treatment is necessary for safety. For example, when dealing with venomous regional spiders such as the brown recluse.”

Does your service eliminate all spiders? “Our service endeavours to deal with spiders on a localized level,” Howard states. “Where treatments are applied, clients will see a near 99% removal of spider activity for several months. Respecting the environment, this does not mean a total removal of spiders from the property as a whole. However, greater mitigation can be achieved with our Complete Plan when a full-range removal of insects on the property is requested.”

Is the product you apply safe? “The products used by us, and by most in this industry, are a class of chemicals known as Pyrethroids (Permethrin) which is considered to be fairly safe, since mammals are less sensitive to the effects and recover quickly from exposure,” he answers.

How and where is the product typically applied? “Depending on the service requested by the client, the application is done a few different ways,” says Howard. “For home treatments, we apply perimeter treatments areas all over the areas of the home known to harbour insect activity. This treatment is typically very direct. For the yard, we use a fogging applicator on trees, shrubs, grass and other common hiding spots for mosquitoes.

Interior applications vary based on the layout of the home.”

What would you say are the benefits to using this service? “Pest management programs for spiders can be very beneficial for the general enjoyment of your home,” Howard says. “They prevent spiders from

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forming webs on your property, reduce instances of pest entry into the home and can help prevent harmful or painful bites. Most clients use our service for peace of mind as they have fears or concerns about excessive insect activity in or around their homes.”

How long will the effects of this service last? “A single application on the home will last around 80 to 90 days, in the yard it is close to 21 days,” notes Howard. “We provide seasonal plans, which offer pre-scheduled application times from spring to fall.”

Whether it’s swatting them away or dealing with the itchy aggravating bites, there may not be a better bearer of the term “pest” than the mosquito! So, let’s now discuss the options for controlling these blood thirsty little fiends with The Mosquito Guard.

Tell us about The Mosquito Guard. “We are licensed insect control experts servicing Windsor and Essex County,” states Kwiatkowski. “The most popular services we offer are ant, tick, mosquito, spider, and wasp control.”

Does your service kill mosquitoes? “Yes, our service will provide immediate knockdown and create a barrier around the area sprayed, thereby protecting you from the blood-sucker mosquitoes,” informs Kwiatkowski. He notes, “The product we apply is safe for small children, pets and all plants.”

Are there risks associated with bites from parasites such as mosquitoes and ticks? “Yes, Lyme disease, the West Nile virus and the Zika virus, are some serious risks associated with bites from mosquitoes and ticks,” cautions Kwiatkowski. “Thankfully, qualified licensed insect control experts such as ourselves are here to help you!”

How and where is the product typically applied? “Our product is typically applied by our licensed and trained technicians using a backpack sprayer targeting trees, shrubs, bushes and heavily wooded areas,” he advises. “These areas are of importance because the mosquitoes feed off the nectar they offer. We also inspect your property for breeding grounds such as gutters and standing

The Mosquito Guard(s) — Jack Hubbell, Dave Desormeaux, Colin Kwiatkowski and Kyle Kwiatkowski, all partners and exterminators — “stand on guard for thee” this summer so you can enjoy every minute outside!

water, and after our inspection we will apply larvicide if necessary.”

How long will the effects of the application last and how effective is it? “Our spray provides up to 21 days residual effect to keep any new mosquitoes away,” Kwiatkowski states, and concludes with: “We can never guarantee 100% protection or elimination of mosquitoes, but can ensure you that our product does make a huge difference. We have many customers who are extremely satisfied with the results they have experienced after our spray.”

So after speaking with our pair of knowledgeable experts it seems reasonable to assume that you can render your home free of any creepy critters and aggravating pests. Well, that is if you don’t include your teenagers creeping in late after curfew or your spouse’s aggravating snoring!

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© Can Stock Photo/Ganko

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Biz X magazine is now in its 25th year of publishing and since our success is due to the support of area businesses and organizations — and of course our readers, advertisers and suppliers — we want to celebrate with others also achieving this amazing milestone. This column features a local business, biz pro or organization, recognizing 25 years of operation in 2022. The April issue kicked off the festivities with The Bloomin’ Gardener, followed by International Art Designs in May and now the June installment features Daniel Hofgartner of Buckingham Realty. The grand finale wraps up in the 25th annual November/December Biz X Awards edition.

Daniel Hofgartner Of Buckingham Realty . . .

Helping People Buy & Sell Properties Since 1997

By Dave Hall

W

ith 25 years experience in the local real estate sector, Daniel Hofgartner, a Broker with Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd. Brokerage, says he’s never seen a market such as the one this area has been experiencing for the past year or so.

“There’s been nothing like it in my memory and none of my more experienced colleagues have ever seen a market like this either,” comments Hofgartner, who joined Buckingham in 1997.

A rebounding local economy, buoyed by recent major electric vehicle investments by Stellantis and LG Energy Solution, a dwindling supply of listings, investors seeking to cash in their rental properties now that the market is red-hot, combined with high demand, have all led sale prices to reach their highest-ever average level.

“We all expect a correction within the next six to 12 months, but whether prices will return to previous levels is another question altogether,” states Hofgartner.

He believes that if mortgage rates rise to between five and six percent, that will cause a slowdown in high-priced sales allowing the market an opportunity to stabilize.

Visions of multi-million dollar sales across the industry are also convincing more people to consider real estate as a lucrative career.

Hofgartner, who was President of the Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS in 2018, reports there are now more than 1,300 REALTORS active in the local market compared to fewer than 1,000 five years ago.

“It seems everyone wants to be in real estate these days,” Hofgartner mentions. “And the competition for listings is fierce.

In past years, you would have as many as 2,000 homes listed each month, but now it’s more like 500 or 600 and a lot of real estate agents are chasing the same listings.”

He broke into the business after studying interior design at Toronto’s Humber College. Much of the curriculum focused on architectural aspects of design and Hofgartner came away with an in-depth knowledge of the housing industry, which convinced him that a real estate career was in his future.

“For anyone getting into the business, you have to start with family, friends and referrals to acquire listings,” suggests Hofgartner. “It’s a long-term game and you can’t expect to be successful overnight.”

While repeat business can be a key to success in any career, people generally don’t need a real estate agent more than once a decade.

Selling a home is often dictated by life-changing events and

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Daniel Hofgartner, pictured recently at a client’s home for sale on Riverside Drive, has an eye for detail to help you find your next dream home or stage your home and sell it for the highest sale price! Photo by Rod Denis.

family circumstances and finding an agent they can trust is important to every buyer and seller.

“Networking is a huge part of developing a client list,” explains Hofgartner. “And it’s crucial that you provide clients with good advice, since it’s the most expensive and important investment they will make in their lives.”

At the same time as housing prices have skyrocketed, so have rental prices, thus making it more difficult for young families and couples to save money for a down payment.

“You can’t find starter homes under $100,000 anymore,” says Hofgartner. “Those homes are now between $300,000 and $400,000 in many neighbourhoods.”

Buckingham Realty, which has more than 50 agents, was established in 1968 by Paul Paine (who passed away earlier this year) and Stan Dunn.

Paine’s son Cameron is now Buckingham’s Broker/Owner, brother Jason Paine is Broker of Record, while Dunn remains active in the business.

The company has four locations — 4573 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor, 12214 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh, 473 Sandwich Street South in Amherstburg, and 45 Queen Street North in Tilbury.

For more information on Hofgartner’s listings, visit his personal website: DHof.ca. Further details on the company can be found on: BuckinghamRealty.ca.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL WOMEN AT WORK

By Rebecca Wright

Kiki Symoné

Promoting Black Empowerment Through Art

L

ocal millennial artist Kiki Symoné has been creating art since she was five years old.

“I used to draw on curtains and furniture in my childhood home, which was not praised — my parents encouraged me to draw on drawing paper,” Symoné recalls of her earliest years of artistic expression.

“Every other weekend, my stepmom and I would take a trip to the dollar store to buy more supplies and/or we went to Michaels on craft days, typically on a Sunday. I also doodled in all my notebooks in class, even throughout my undergrad studies and in teacher’s college.”

Symoné fell in love with digital art three years ago and now has her own business called artdealerchick. She started the business in 2019 after gifting several selfportraits to family members.

“I’d say my art is faceless and minimalistic,” is how she describes her pieces. “I depict the everyday life of African-Canadians and African Americans.”

Symoné defines her art as: “Black people doing every day normal things,” and “being Black in its most uninhibited form.”

It’s her way to counter any stereotypes.

Her artwork has opened doors to many impressive opportunities, both in the community and abroad, with recent commissions in France, The Netherlands, Spain, Australia, as well as Canada and the United States for museums in Brooklyn, New York.

For the 2022 Juno Awards, Symoné participated in an online auction with the

Kiki Symoné holds up a piece of her artwork that was part of a series during her exhibition at Artcite Inc. Photo courtesy of Teajai Travis.

MusiCounts organization to help raise funds for music education.

She just finished a large commissioned piece for Canada’s National Ballet School to be showcased in their Shoe Room, where they sell and fit ballet slippers for the dancers.

Symoné also signed a consignment deal with Canada’s National Ballet School and has consignment deals with Black Owned Toronto and Whiskeyjack Boutique in Windsor as well.

But that’s not all!

“I just finished a project I did with the Downtown Windsor Business Association, along with other local and

talented artists,” she adds. “I’m a Lampshade Artist with a piece in the Art Alley (see: DowntownWindsor.ca/art-alley) and I think it’s a public art space the city needs.”

Symoné also illustrated The Skin You’re In, a collaborative children’s book written

by CTV Meteorologist Gary Archibald. in August 2021.

Also, last summer, she had an art exhibition at Artcite Inc. titled Emancipate the Landscape. It showcased a series of art pieces titled “young kamala harris watches fannie lou hamer” (shown in photo) and “an unknown black girl watches kamala harris.”

These were her first ever gallery pieces sold.

Throughout her career she’s had many supporters, from teachers to mentors to her family — specifically her papa Rickie, who she says noticed her gift before anyone else — and her boyfriend, Dylan Timuik, who runs a lot of her business errands.

The world around her serves as her inspiration for her artwork, along with her family, friends and her personal experiences as an African-Canadian with Caribbean heritage, a woman of colour.

However, she doesn’t really think that her work has one fixed meaning.

“I believe my work is multi-faceted, and like me, it’s constantly evolving,” she states. “I don’t think it’s up to me to tell the world what my art means. I think when a person views my art, they’ll have their own interpretation of it.”

If you are interested in learning more about this talented digital artist, her artwork can be purchased or commissioned on: ArtDealerChick.ca or through Etsy.

XX FILES

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Traditional Art Gets Contemporary

By Joe McParland

N

ot every artist is a starving artist. Far from it.

In fact, many artists find ways to combine their creative powers with entrepreneurial skill sets and opportunities to make their artwork profitable. Case in point: meet Matthew Giffin, an entrepreneur, visual artist, musician, and multimedia storyteller.

He was born with the “platinum mobility card” that locals in this area know as dual U.S.-Canadian citizenship.

Having spent his early years equally on both sides of the border, Giffin recalls: “I grew up embodying the contrasts that exist between inner city Detroit and Belle River, Ontario — two entirely different worlds within a 20 mile radius. These contrasts were foundational and continue to inform my work to this day.”

He attended the prestigious College for Creative Studies in Detroit. His professional art career began when he was 23 and had moved to New York City, where he created a series of abstract drawings that formed his first solo exhibition one year later at Shiffman Galleries on West 71st. Street in Manhattan.

Into the early 1990s he was a regular exhibitor in SoHo and the East Village while also presenting at Helio Gallery in New York. Years later he would also show at 360 Gallery in Toronto, as well as at Toronto’s Helio Gallery, where he is currently represented. His most recent solo exhibit was in October 2019.

Giffin, who returned to live in southwestern

In the only shot Matthew Giffin has with Sir Paul he is pictured (second from right) with the production team that worked on The Space Within Us project in 2006, from left: Joe DeAngelus, Zoran Jevremov, Paul McCartney, Claudia Mendoza DeAngelus, Matthew Giffin, Mitch Jacobson. Photo courtesy of MHP.

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Ontario just prior to the pandemic, says: “Art has always been central to my life; even as a very small child, the juxtapositions of certain shapes and colours seemed to hint at something powerful and mysterious. My life and work have been about discovering and exploring that power and mystery and staying true to that initial fascination has led to some amazing situations and opportunities.”

His career continued to evolve in the 1990s and resulting from his early successes he widened his opportunities through commissioning his art. “Illustration Commissioning” art is the process of hiring an artist to create an artwork, based on the client’s request, preference, and needs. Some of his notable clients included Oxford University Press, Los Angeles Times, Random House, The Globe and Mail and later, in 1994 he began work as a designer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).

Up to this point in his life as an artist, Giffin produced most of his art “at will,” when he was moved or inspired. Transitioning to this next step of “Illustration Commissioning” was not without its challenges, difficulties and eventual benefits as he describes: “Illustration forces you to work within the precepts that are present in an article or a book. At first it was a difficult to work within these limitations, but soon I discovered how certain limitations can bring about a different kind of freedom. As an artist it presented an opportunity to come up with visual ideas that otherwise would not have occurred to me.”

He then discovered the new possibilities of creative expression with the computer in the digital world.

“It’s hard to believe that not so longago digital art did not exist,” he comments.

“In 1992 I bought an Apple Quadra 650 and began experimenting with Illustrator and Photoshop. This was a game changer, opening up yet another universe of new possibilities to explore.”

By the time of the new millennium, Giffin had evolved from gallery artist to illustrator, and explorer of the new digital realm.

Then, his life journey would take another interesting twist. Due to the 2005 CBC labour dispute/lockout, he created his own personal website to market himself, which in turn led BIZ X M AG A Z I N E • J U N E 2 0 2 2

Matthew Giffin holds up a sample of his StoryArt Box of Imagination in front of one of his recent drawings.

The 2020 artwork entitled Trepidation is an acrylic, coloured pencil, wax crayon, on paper. Photo courtesy of Matthew Giffin.

him to being commissioned to serve as art director/designer for several productions back in New York City. One even included working with Sir Paul McCartney for his Space Within Us project (The-PaulMcCartneyP roje ct.com /albu m /u lt i mat e -a rch ive collection-the-space-within-us) in 2006!

“In my view, Sir Paul is a creative force of historical significance and anything that represents him should not suggest anything less than ‘Art’,” states Giffin. “This was the basis on which I was commissioned for this project. It was an amazing experience.”

In 2007 Giffin, and his life partner Cheryl Thornton (storyteller, educator, and former off-Broadway performer), founded a Toronto-based company Storyvalues, Inc. (Storyvalues.ca).

Since then, over one million users in Canada, Australia and China have benefitted from their curriculum-supportive live and online programs, suitable for schools, daycares, home schools and families.

From 2016 to 2018 he lived in Beijing to form the joint venture KapowKidz.

Finally, (for now) Thornton and Giffin have joined forces with Windsor’s Samantha Walker and The Art Lab (TheArtLabWindsor.com). Together they produce The StoryArt Box of Imagination (StoryArtBox.com/about), a monthly subscription-based service that features a classic world folktale, expertly presented on video by storyteller Thornton (Giffin providing guitar and vocals).

Stories are interactive, engaging and provide the context for creative art activities that a child (aged three to nine) will anticipate receiving. Every month subscribers are sent art supplies and directions for projects that relate to the featured story. These projects are designed to strengthen a child’s creativity and the resulting art can be used as props to retell the stories, building literacy skills in the process.

To follow Giffin’s ever-evolving artistic journey and view his artwork, check out his personal website: MatthewGiffin.com.

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GUEST COLUMN

The Movement Of Saudi Arabia–A New Global Era

By Natasha E. Feghali

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his is a short story about three women on a road trip to Saudi Arabia to check out what all the hype is around this newly “open” country and what it has to offer investors and professionals.

Next is something I never thought I would say in my lifetime! However, at 38 years old, myself and two other women (all Western), drove through Saudi Arabia to get a better grip on the real estate market and any business opportunities that are creeping in.

Locals are friendly and want change. They ask many questions and one that stood out during each question period was: “Are you here for business?”

Our initial intention was to travel as professionals and see what opportunities arise when you have boots on the ground; however, this was quite the opposite of what we discovered. Saudi Arabia is an exceptionally large mystery to most people in most countries.

Technically “closed” for many years, and under the former King, the country was not exposed to new and innovative methods and ideas that the global economy is using to accelerate in every area from education to healthcare to green energy.

Under the leadership of MBS (Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud) the country has become a haven for investors and entrepreneurs alike.

Anywhere I went I could see people sitting in coffee shops, talking business and investing.

Saudi Arabia is the third largest country in Asia and has a very progressive and willing population of people who have adapted to the changes now and will also adapt to those on the horizon. With the Ministry of Investment incubating foreign investors and entrepreneurs, there is much to brag about when it comes to Saudi Arabia.

As I write this column, I am staying in Kuwait (but return home to Windsor in June and I work out of three provinces in Canada) — many young entrepreneurs across the MENA region (Middle East, North Africa) are taking their businesses and business ideas to “Saudi” as it is commonly known.

While there I met young Canadians with medical APPS who were getting to pitch their idea to an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) on the ground.

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Three’s company! From left: Natasha Feghali from Windsor poses with Lisa Edwards from New York, USA, and Susan Fraine of Manchester, U.K., in Taif, Saudi Arabia.

Along with the other two women I am travelling with, we are all real estate investors. Combined, we have properties across Canada, the UK and Turkey.

For us it is a game of Monopoly and which country is offering the best returns. Saudi is quickly becoming that beacon of hope with the developments across the coastline, as well as the NEOM City of the Future (a fully automated mega city).

After three days between Jeddah, Taif and Al Bahah, and a meeting with investment firms from Jordan and talking to delegates from NGOs — I realized that Saudi is a growing incubator for the global market.

There was not a second that I did not feel the progress of Saudi.

With 10 million visitors in 2019 and a double projection for 2022 in both personal and professional travel, Saudi is preparing to be a giant in the future of entrepreneurship, nomad travel, and real estate across the Asian continent.

Natasha E. Feghali (NatashaeFeghali.com) is an award winning Canadian for her philanthropy in community and dedication to education and the community. She is a Stanford University Fellow of the Draper Hills School for Democracy and Democratic Rule. Natasha is a recipient of the 40 Under 40 United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County Leadership Award in 2018; the Sovereign Canadian Medal in 2015 and the Odyssey Award from the University of Windsor in 2018.

Those Who Fell Belong To The Ages

By Andrea Grimes

The Masonic War Memorial in Malden Park is solid black and lies flat on the ground with trees casting shadows on the names of the fallen (symbolic of the darkness of war).

Photo by Andrea Grimes.

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aving the privilege to serve defending our Canadian values of democracy, held sway for many of our patriotic lads who gave up a piece of individuality to become a part of something larger than themselves.

Jessop, Pike, and Smith; Parliament, Daniels and Brocklebank; Sanders, Miller and Fleming; Shepley, Thornton and Hayhurst; are some of the 26 area Freemasons whose names are inscribed on the Masonic War Memorial located in Windsor’s Malden Park, 4200 Malden Road.

The granite monument and memorial walkway was designed by Windsor Freemason historian Deacon Gene Lotz and cut by Excelsior Monuments (ExcelsiorMonuments.com). Lotz has made it his life ambition to honour the memory of many who never gave “doing the right thing” a second thought.

“In commemorating the millennium, the Windsor and Erie Districts of the Masonic

Fraternity in Essex County united in the building of the Masonic War Memorial at a cost of $85,000,” Lotz explains. “This tribute serves to remember local Freemason Veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice defending Canada.”

The Masonic War Memorial was unveiled November 4, 2000. According to an article published in The Windsor Star on November 6, 2000: “The ceremony was attended by about 350 Freemasons, one of which was 82 year old Freemason Maurice Snook.”

The late Snook served with the Essex Scottish, was captured during Operation Jubilee (August 19, 1942) and held as a prisoner of war.

For the last two decades, Lotz has been “leaning into it” for his latest book entitled “The Anguish of War.” It shines a light on the lives of many who “filled the ranks” — many that lived in our neighbourhoods and attended our

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local schools; that held public office, were employed in offices, shops, and factories; and worked the family farms throughout Essex County. Each page captures the stains and strains of war fought in battle, in hospitals and at home.

“My book is meant to put a face to the lives of area Veterans who were killed in action or who died as a result of injuries sustained in battle,” says Lotz. “I am doing this because I feel that I am bringing these young guys back home.”

In as much as many who went “over there” and experienced the anguish of war, families on the home front were also hard pressed to find the strength to cope with the bitter realities of war.

One poignant mention in Lotz’s book captures the strength of the human spirit.

Bernadette Rivait was a Windsor mother whose five sons enlisted with the Essex Scottish. Two fell at Dieppe on August 19, 1942 and one fell in Holland on November 23, 1944. Two remaining sons also served in WWII. Veterans Affairs Canada presented Rivait with three Memorial Crosses honouring her three sons for their sacrifice.

On November 11, 1964, Rivait presented a wreath at Ottawa’s National War Memorial, where she not only bore the anguish of losing her lads, but also all who never came home.

In moving through each generation, Remembrance instills a valued legacy, honouring service, courage and loyalty.

In becoming acquainted with so many of our Veterans who “rallied to the colours” and in memory of their strength of valour and depth of sacrifice, all have earned the glory of their distinguished places belong to the ages. They will not be faded!

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

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OF THE MONTH

Windsor Yacht Club Celebrates 85 Years Of Races And Social Events Story And Photos By Victoria Rose

SPECIAL SALUTE TO LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

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unshine and sailboats were the perfect backdrop to the Windsor Yacht Club’s 85th anniversary celebrations on Sunday, May 15, 2022. Nearly 100 members and staff gathered for a party to honour the club and celebrate growth.

“In today’s economic climate you often hear of those that have not been successful — celebrating is always a positive indicator,” says Windsor Yacht Club’s (WYC) Commodore, Joe Gatfield. “Our membership continues to grow, we are stable, and we are what we refer to as ‘WYC family’ . . . and families celebrate!”

While celebrating with members and looking forward to future growth, the club is also extremely proud of its history and the part it played in making a significant impact on Canadian boaters.

Shortly after the club was established in 1937, it launched the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons (CPS-ECP). The squadron expanded to a national organization that offers courses for recreational boaters, helping them prepare for both everyday and emergency scenarios (CPS-ECP.ca) “CPS-ECP has affected hundreds of thousands of Canadians and made our waters safer as a result,” says Gatfield. “CPSECP has been influential with involvement in government agencies and … (similar) organizations that have, and continue to,

Windsor Yacht Club Commodore, Joe Gatfield (left), and Past Commodore, Chris Colthurst, stand at the harbour at Windsor Yacht Club, during the 85th anniversary party in mid-May.

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A tradition of culinary excellence at the WYC continues with Executive Chef Stan Spanos and his dining staff. Casual and fine dining experiences from the galley and bar-side are offered for members and guests for special functions.

promote safe and responsible boating in Canada and internationally.”

The club expanded in 1945, adding kitchen and dining facilities to accommodate larger social events and special occasions like weddings. In 1999 the clubhouse was reconstructed as it stands today.

Further improvements were made over time, the most recent in 2016 being a significant upgrade to the harbour, which allows for a total berthing capacity of 158 vessels up to 60 feet in length.

The WYC is a not-for-profit managed by a Board of Directors elected annually by the membership. The Commodore is the Chair of the Board of Directors and is charged with the general supervision of the business and the affairs of the club.

To run the facility, there are approximately 30 employees divided into four areas: Senior Management (Director of Operations, Food & Beverage Manager, Chef, and Facilities Manager); Front of House (bar staff and servers); Back of House (galley staff); and Harbour Staff.

Membership of the private club is by application and, after review, the application is approved by the Board.

There is an initiation fee, monthly dues, monthly capital dues, and an annual minimum to spend on food and beverage. Membership levels vary based on age and, in some cases, the distance one lives from the Club.

Members enjoy access to the pool, showers, harbour bathrooms, barbeques, restaurant

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privileges, social nights (often with live music), weekly races, and access to affiliated clubs in the region and afar.

There is one detail that many people do not know about the club though and it needs mentioning . . . you don’t need a boat to join!

“We often use the statement, ‘No boat, no problem’,” Gatfield indicates. “In fact, most members do not have a boat. It is a community of families who enjoy fellowship and camaraderie in an enjoyable setting.”

The club still partners with CPS-ECP and is also a member of Detroit Regional Yacht-racing Association, Inter-Lake Yachting Association, the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association and Ontario Sailing.

The WYC credits the members and “solid staff” with its success and future plans include continuing to enhance the facility and programs for members.

Even non-members can benefit from some of the WYC’s contributions to the region.

For example, the spectacular venue with its amazing sunsets is available for special events that can accommodate up to 180 people. As well, everyone is welcome to watch the end of the Wednesday night sailboat races from Sandpoint Beach or Lakeview Park Marina (boats return between 8 and 9 p.m.).

The club is located at 9000 Riverside Drive East in Windsor. See further information about amenities and membership online at: WindsorYachtClub.com.

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