Biz X magazine May 2017 - Vol 20 Issue 5 by Biz X magazine

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Is Windsor Abusing Multi-Res Building Owners? H yatt Lassaline LLP; Economy Exchange; Thai Time; The Chasing Hazel Foundation & All Things Junk TWEPI’s “Best Of Windsor Essex” Award Winners Hot Shots: Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd. Expansion; “Bridal Ball 2017” & “The Great Soup Kitchen” Upcoming Events In June: “Jeep Jam Poker Run”; “We Will Rock Blue” And The “3 On 3 Basketball Tournament: Mad Hoops In The Lot”

“It’s A Celebration!”

This year St. Clair College commemorates their 50th anniversary, but President Patti France (pictured in middle) says this milestone celebration extends beyond its campuses and students and will be celebrated by the community as a whole. — Page 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

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

T! U O D L SO

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table of contents May 2017 volume 20 • issue 5

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4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: The Proof Is In The Promotions 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Multi-Res Mess

Columnist Alan Halberstadt, in speaking to owners of multi-residential buildings like Peter Valente (in top photo courtesy of Valente Development Corp.) concludes that Windsor City Council is trying to disguise a blatant tax grab by doing away with condo conversions.

8 Front Lines 13 Heard On The Street 14 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 26 Hot Shots: An “Unveiling Ceremony” For New Expansion At Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd. 28 Portfolio Corner 29 Corporate Spotlight: The Accelerator Team’s Trip To A Seattle Conference 30 Biz X Was There

The Black Law Students’ Association of Canada (BLSAC) held their “26th Annual National Conference” in Windsor earlier this year. A formal gala was one of the items on the itinerary with 171 guests and 85 registered students attending from as far as British Columbia in the west to Nova Scotia in the east. The conference brought together students, academics, and legal professionals to discuss issues of law and their impacts on underrepresented groups in the legal profession. One of the local “legal eagles” in attendance at the gala was (middle photo by Rod Denis) Claudine Wilson, LL.M, Owner of Wilson Law Office and In-House Legal Counsel for Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society.

31 Keys To Success: The New Online Tool “WEsearch” 32 Event Profile: “3 On 3 Basketball Tournament: Mad Hoops In The Lot” 33 On The Entertainment Scene: Take A Cruise On The Macassa Bay 34 Milestones: Economy Exchange Hits The Big 5-0 35 Event Profile: The “4th Annual Jeep Jam Poker Run” 36 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: The Chasing Hazel Foundation & Down Syndrome Families 38 Hot Shots: “The 5th Annual Bridal Ball 2017” 40 XX Files: Harpist Anita Leschied 41 Awards Spotlight: TWEPI’s “Best Of Windsor Essex” Awards

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) has revealed the winners in the second edition of their tourism awards. Willistead Manor, a 36-room mansion nestled within a 15-acre park with plenty of ideal spots for great camera shots, earned the “Best Photo Op” Award. Accepting their award is Cathy Masterson, Manager of Cultural Affairs for the City of Windsor from Gordon Orr, TWEPI CEO (left in photo below by Rod Denis) and TWEPI Board Member and Mayor of Pelee Island Rick Masse. Check out the complete list of the 43 recipients.

44 Gen YKNOT: How Playing Hockey Relates To A Business Career 45 Ask The Experts: All Things Junk! 46 Food For Thought: Thai Palace’s Second Location, Thai Time 47 Hot Shots: “The 31st Annual Great Soup Kitchen” For The Heart And Stroke Foundation 48 From The Bookshelf 49 The Way It Was 50 Biz Of The Month: Hyatt Lassaline LLP, Windsor & Essex

ON THE COVER — “It’s A Celebration!”—18

St. Clair College has become a pillar of our community and it serves as a beacon of brightness and innovation. Thousands and thousands have graduated from St. Clair over the past five decades, and we profile a handful of the many astute, trailblazing grads who have become industry leaders across Windsor Essex. This year’s 50th anniversary in May definitely marks a community-wide celebration. LOCATION: The St. Clair College “pond,” as it is called, has been an architectural feature of the South Campus, 2000 Talbot Road West, Windsor for 50 years. It offers a place to relax during warm days and skating in the winter for the students and the public. What better venue to showcase representatives of the student body from Student Representative Council (SRC); Student Athletic Association (SAA) and St. Clair Thames Student Inc. (TSI)! THE PEOPLE: (Front Row) from left: Matt Patterson, TSI; Logan Poels, SRC; Patti France, President of St. Clair College; Tristan Bouchat, SAA; Samuel McGuire, TSI and Jared Fleming, TSI. (Back Row) from left: Jessica Jamieson, SAA; Emily Staley, SRC; Holly Nicholson, SRC; Jeff Rousseau, SRC and Danny Gatto, SAA. PHOTOGRAPHER: Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com) B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

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from the publisher

If You Promote It, They Will Come By Deborah Jones

oving along now with our 20 years of publishing celebrations, I would like to mention how Biz X magazine promotes tourism in the area to help businesses and charities earn more dollars. As a preview to our relationship to tourism, please read the letter (on right) I received from Gordon Orr, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (VisitWindsorEssex.com). And be sure to check out the “Awards Spotlight” column in this issue (Page 42) to see the winners of their “Best of Windsor Essex” campaign, a comprehensive list of the “Best Of” things to see and do in the region. Of course our own Biz X Awards also inform local residents on the top businesses in the region and in our hospitality section we have nominees for the finest dining establishments, casual places to grab a bite, places to stay and events to attend as well. Not only do we try to make sure residents in Windsor and Essex County know about all the great things going on here, but we also promote all we can across the border with our distribution of certain issues in Michigan. We aim to get the American tourists and day trippers to visit our local establishments and festivals etc. That’s why in every issue you will find articles on what is happening each month. And one of the biggest concerts we sponsor is coming up soon, so I’m throwing in a plug for it now. On June 17 at 8 p.m. Biz X presents the “4th Annual We Will Rock Blue” to benefit Roots 2 Wings. This time it’s a tribute to ABBA with the group, ALWAYS ABBA. ALWAYS ABBA has been thrilling crowds across North America, performing hits such

as Mama Mia, S.O.S, Waterloo, Take A Chance On Me, Knowing Me Knowing You, Money, Money, Money, and Dancing Queen. Here’s your chance to sing and dance to the inspirational music of ABBA and help raise awareness and funds for charity. Roots 2 Wings provides youth and young adults living with a disability the opportunities

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to grow and develop skills to enhance their independence, social skills, and quality of life. Tickets are just $22 balcony and $32 main floor. Get details at: WeWillRockBlue.com. I hope to sell out this concert and I look forward to many more years on promoting everything Windsor Essex has to offer!

editorial viewpoint

City’s Multi-Res Tax Grab Picks On The Little Guys By Alan Halberstadt If you would like to comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com.

indsor City Council is moving forward with a proposal to deny future applications from owners of multi-residential buildings to convert their apartment buildings to condominiums, a status that has freed landlords and their tenants from a crippling tax rate 2 1/2 times higher than the singlefamily residential rate. The city’s official plan, adopted in 2007, dictates that conversions should be allowed only when the local vacancy rate is above three percent. The latest calculation pegs it at 2.9 percent. The move will allegedly assist renters struggling to find scarce accommodations. “The only loser in all of this is the City of Windsor because we lose a lot of taxes,” Ward 5 Councillor Ed Sleiman told the media after a city subcommittee he sits on voted to recommend the condo conversion ban to full Council. Who are these tax bandits trying to kid? Council nose-stretchers should know that no renters have been forced to purchase their units, and none have been displaced by 50-to60 condo conversions, which began in earnest in 2006. Tenants living in 3,300 converted units will remain protected indefinitely. The wealthiest apartment building owners began the conversion epidemic in 2006 with the simple motive of escaping the multi-res tax the city refused to modify. “If it was a fair tax from the beginning they wouldn’t have this problem,” says Janette Calandra, head of the Windsor Property Management Association, and owner of three of the 400-odd buildings left in the city’s multi-residential class. The feisty Calandra has been lobbying the city for more than a decade to bring down the multi-res rate. It started in 2004, when taxes on apartment buildings almost doubled with the latest re-assessment Calandra. Photo from the Municipal Janette courtesy of Remo Valente Property Assessment Real Estate (1990) Limited. Corporation (MPAC), coupled with the city’s torturous tax rate. When Calandra multiplied MPAC’s assessed value by the city’s tax rate, she learned that

the levy on a 13-unit, three-storey walk-up she owns, would leap-frog from $11,000 to $21,000 per year, phased in over four years. In the throes of a 35% vacancy rate that spurred a host of bankruptcies in the sector, she helped form a group of similarly jolted landlords to ask the city for fair taxation. In 2006, after little change, group member Boardwalk Real Estate Investment, an Alberta-based conglomerate, began to apply for condo conversions, including high rises like the 184-unit Lauzon Towers. Boardwalk processed 21 local conversions before selling its Windsor assets to Guelphbased Skyline Group Apartment Real Estate Trust for $136 million in 2015. Other out-of-town Goliaths, like Timbercreek Asset Management, have recently jumped on the conversion gravy train. The city discouraged conversions by charging artificially high permit fees of $6,765, plus building department charges of $300 to inspect buildings (bird dogging code violations), for up to four hours. The city tacked on $75 per hour after that. Add on a base legal fee charge of $1,500, plus $50 per unit. The fire and police departments came to the party, demanding high-priced lighting, electrical and security upgrades, landscaping and parking garage improvements. Deep pocket players like Boardwalk and Timbercreek hired lawyers to power through the city’s demands, spending tens of thousands of dollars before condo status was granted. In the end, with taxes reduced to the residential rate, it was well worth it. Peter Valente, Owner of Windsor based Valente Development Corporation, converted a 53-unit building at 3150 Donnelly Street in 2011. One-time conversion costs were in the vicinity of $60,000, but the annual tax savings, under the residential rate, allowed him to make the money back in a year and a half. He added $950,000 more value to the property, which will be a huge benefit should he one day wish to sell. “Multi-residential tax rates are very skewed in Windsor,” says Valente, who describes the recent move to ban conversions as “another one of the city’s cockamamie schemes,” a tax grab designed by short-sighted Councillors “to get back into office.” In fact, Valente states, the move will actually B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

backfire: “Whatever extra the landlords have to pay (in taxes) is passed on to tenants in higher rents. They will be pulling money from the poorest people in the city.” Also contrary to Sleiman’s dodge that the only loser is the city’s treasury, the ban will crucify local independent landlords of older, two and three-storey walk-ups who could not afford the high costs of conversion. In retrospect, owners of these kinds of buildings, minus balconies, elevators and parking, “should have begged, borrowed and stole” to secure conversions, says Valente. “Now the city is closing the window.” Valente opened a new 50-suite condo building last year in Riverside. Before he built, he titled the building as condos, which keeps the taxes assessed at the residential rate even if he chose to rent out all the units. In this loophole-riddled climate, the much older apartment buildings are stuck competing for tenants with those who have converted, or built new. “We are getting royally screwed,” Calandra smoulders, noting the city’s multi-residential rate has been among the highest in the province, at 2.54 times the residential rate. Elsewhere, forward thinking municipalities have significantly lowered their multi-res rates, with at least one in the GTA down to one-to-one with residential. Council, badgered by Calandra’s group, lowered Windsor’s rate marginally, over eight years, to 2.38, but then gradually topped it up, over the next five years, to compensate for plummeting property assessments. Council rejected the landlords’ suggestion a few years ago to exempt walk-ups from the multi-res class, continuing to saddle buildings with as few as seven units with the premium rate. To squeeze the vice even tighter, the ever fluctuating MPAC market value assessment has skyrocketed again, like it did 13 years ago. At the 2.54 ratio on Calandra’s 13-unit building, constructed in 1923, taxes would rise, over the four-year phase in period, from $13,000 a year to $21,000 a year. Marginal relief surfaced when Council set the 2017 ratios for Windsor’s 10 tax classes on April 24. Facing restrictions imposed by the province to offset the huge MPAC increases, the city’s multi-res rate was lowered from 2.54 to 2.35. This is no thanks to the city, but no doubt it will be spun that way. Council gets away with this larceny because the multi-residential tax class represents only 4.57% of the total revenue pie the city collects from all sectors. Very few people are aware or care that the city has been fumbling the ball on the multi-res file for years. Council will soon consider an administrative report outlining the implications of ending condo conversions.

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FRONTLINES A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. Earns Best Managed Designation In early March an official announcement was made that A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. was honoured with the prestigious “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” designation. Established in 1993, the 2017 Best Managed program recognizes the best-inclass of Canadian-owned and managed companies with revenues over $15 million, demonstrating strategy, capability and commitment to achieve sustainable growth. (Full details at: CanadianBusiness.com/listsand-rankings/best-managed-companies/avgauge-fixture.) Applicants are evaluated by an independent judging panel made up of judges from Deloitte, CIBC, Canadian Business, Smith School of Business and MacKay CEO Forums. Best Managed companies share commonalities that include an emphasis on culture and people, innovation, sustained performance and strong financial results. “CIBC is thrilled to congratulate A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. on being named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, recognizing its excellence in leadership, business performance and innovation,” says Jon Hountalas, Executive Vice President, Business and Corporate Banking, CIBC.

An aerial shot of employees at A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. at their headquarters in Oldcastle. Photo courtesy of Glenn Gervais.

“As a sponsor of Canada’s Best Managed Companies program for over 20 years, CIBC is proud to celebrate private companies like A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. as leaders in their industry.” A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. Director of Corporate Operations, Lorne Strong believes this win “validates our strategic plan and differentiates us from our competitors in two major ways: we are relentlessly customerfocused, and we are staunchly employeecentric. We believe that when we put our greatest efforts into being our customers’ top partner, while serving our employees’ best

interests, we achieve our finest successes.” Strong continues: “This achievement is a reflection of over 30 years of efforts from all our dedicated and talented team members and it is an honour to be recognized with so many prominent Canadian companies.” A V Gauge & Fixture Inc. was established in 1985 and is a leading supplier of gauges and fixtures in North America, employing over 260 employees in eight facilities across Canada, the United States and Mexico, including their head office at 4000 Delduca, Oldcastle, Ontario. View their website: AVgauge.com to learn more.

Cuddle Up To Local Clothing Program A Windsor woman has turned her personal experience of being a single mom with six children, into a program which collects and distributes free clothing to children across Windsor and Essex County. Eight years ago, Amy Johnson fled what she calls “a horrifying marriage” with six children in tow and went into hiding in the Cambridge area. “It was a terrible time, but people would give me clothes for the kids because they knew we needed them,” Johnson recounts. “I later became involved with the clothing program at the Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank.” Eventually, Johnson moved to Windsor in 2012 to attend law school and decided she would pass along the clothes she no longer needed. However, she wasn’t able to find an organization in Windsor which would distribute them for free. So, Johnson established Cuddles Clothing for Kids in the basement of what was then St. Mark’s Anglican Church, 1636 Tecumseh Road West. The church

was sold in 2014 to Adullam Redeemed Christian Church of God and fortunately, Johnson’s program was invited to stay. The congregation of St. Mark’s moved to St. David’s and St. Mark’s Anglican Church at 3401 Byng Road, but lack of space initially placed the program in jeopardy. “We had looked unsuccessfully for somewhere we could set up for free and when the new church owners let us stay, it was the perfect solution,” says Johnson. Now the program has a half-dozen volunteers and is open Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, to accept both new donations of clean clothing, and to distribute clothing to families in need. “We find that the need isn’t permanent for a lot of families, but rather it’s situational when people are perhaps between jobs or between relationships and need help,” notes Johnson, who graduated from law school in 2015 and was called to the bar a year ago. “There are people who often have to make the choice between food and clothing for their kids and that’s a horrible position to B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

Amy Johnson, founder of the Cuddles Clothing for Kids program, is pictured with some of the donated clothes distributed to children of needy families across Windsor and Essex County. Photo by Dave Hall.

be in,” adds Johnson who remembers those days herself. Johnson now works with lawyer Jason Howie at his Walkerville practice specializing, not surprisingly, in family law. But, Cuddles Clothing will always have a piece of her heart and Johnson is constantly looking for additional donations and volunteers to help sustain the program. For further details, check out “Cuddles Clothing for Kids” on Facebook or send Johnson an email at: cuddlesclothingforkids@yahoo.ca.

FRONTLINES Tunnel Dedication Ceremony Set To Remember Sr. Cst. John Atkinson As part of Windsor Police Service’s 150th anniversary celebrations May 1 to 5, 2017, the Windsor Polices Services Board, in cooperation with the City of Windsor and the Town of LaSalle, are dedicating The Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway Tunnel located near the entrance to St. Clair College South Campus as the Sr. Cst. John Atkinson Memorial Tunnel. The dedication is Friday, May 5 at 11 a.m. in the St. Clair College Student Life Centre, 2000 Talbot Road West, inside the college. Senior Constable John Atkinson was tragically murdered while on duty May 5, 2006. Atkinson, 37, was the first and only officer to be murdered on duty in the history of the Windsor Police Service. Each year, the Windsor Police Service marks the anniversary with a ceremony at their headquarters. This year, the Ministry of Transportation joins them in honouring their fallen member. The preamble to The Highway Memorials for Fallen Police Officers Act 2002, S.O. 2002, c. 26 reads as follows: We must never forget the contribution of those men and women to whom we owe so much. As a gesture of our respect,

we seek to honour them by permitting the Legislature to name highway bridges and other structures in their memory. “On May 5, 2006, the City of Windsor lost a true hero,” says Mayor Drew Dilkens. “John Atkinson was a respected Windsor Police Constable, a devoted husband and loving father and son, who lost his life protecting his community. The Sr. Cst. John Atkinson Memorial Tunnel will be a tangible and lasting reminder to honour John’s memory.” This recognition is the latest in many Windsor area dedications to Atkinson over the years. “We continue to be overwhelmed by the ongoing support by this community for our family,” says Shelley Atkinson, wife of the fallen constable. His children, Mitchell and Nicole, see these dedications “as such a mazing reminders of our dad and a great way to keep his memory alive.” Later this summer, on Wednesday, August 23, 2017, the “7th Annual John Atkinson Memorial Fund Golf Tournament” takes place with an 11 a.m. shotgun start at Ambassador

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Standing above the Sr. Cst. John Atkinson Memorial Tunnel, in front of St. Clair College, is the Atkinson family: Nicole (daughter); Shelley (wife) holding picture of John and Mitchell (son). Photo by Joe McParland.

Golf Club, 1025 Sprucewood Drive, Windsor. The family of John Atkinson have created a scholarship endowment to help keep John’s memory alive. This endowment provides annual scholarships to local students pursuing education in law enforcement. The 2016 tournament raised over $14,000. To register for the tournament or to assist through sponsorship and/or donation of prizes, please visit: JohnAtkinsonFund.ca.

FRONTLINES

Crime Stoppers Needs Business Donations Local businesses are being sought to participate in a new Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers program designed to rid area streets of fentanyl, an opioid which claimed 43 lives across Windsor and Essex County in 2015. According to a report by the WindsorEssex County Health Unit, 24 of those overdose deaths occurred in Essex County and 19 in Windsor. “We are looking for tips leading to the arrests of individuals responsible for trafficking fentanyl,” says Const. Amanda Allen, an Ontario Provincial Police Crime Stoppers Coordinator. “The reward is a guaranteed $1,000 once a successful investigation is completed.” As well, businesses can donate $200 a year for five years or make a lump sum $1,000 payment. They will receive a plaque in return for their participation in the program. Tyler Lamphier, Program Manager for Crime Stoppers, explains another goal of the program is to build a long-term dialogue and relationship with local businesses since Crime Stoppers funding is entirely based on donations and fundraising initiatives.

“We don’t want this to be a one-time effort because we want to increase our presence in the community so that businesses and individuals think of us when donating money and time,” Lamphier comments. Fentanyl is an opioid originally designed to be prescribed by a physician for pain relief, but has since become one of the most popular and addictive drugs on city streets, says Const. Kristina Gilboe, a Windsor Police Service Crime Stoppers Coordinator. “It was originally prescribed as a patch, but now it can be found in tablet or powder form and users have no idea what strength they are taking nor what it has been mixed with,” reports Gilboe. “It’s this uncertainty about the dosage which leads to overdoses.” Allen adds that while nobody wants to become addicted to opioids such as fentanyl, they are pain-blockers and it’s easy to get hooked, which is why Crime Stoppers is urging people to help get it off the street. Crime Stoppers, a registered non-profit charity, distributed $21,000 in reward money last year as a result of tips from the public. Crime Stoppers averages between 120 and 150 tips per month about a vast

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Const. Amanda Allen of the Ontario Provincial Police, left, Crime Stoppers Program Manager Tyler Lamphier, and Const. Kristina Gilboe of Windsor Police Services, pose with a plaque local businesses will receive for participating in a program to help identify traffickers of fentanyl, a highly-addictive opioid. Photo by Dave Hall.

array of crimes including theft, vandalism, homicides, robberies, weapons, drugs, assault, sexual assault, human trafficking, domestic violence and many others. Lamphier advises that anyone with information about individuals trafficking fentanyl can contact Crime Stoppers at 519-258-TIPS. For more information visit: CatchCrooks.com..

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visited the island a number of years ago and then went back when he was offered a job. “I met Ricki and fell in love with both her and the island,” he recounts. “It’s been absolutely awesome, but it’s time for a change.” The business also offers catering, fine dining, bed and breakfast options and is open all year except for a three month break in the winter. It’s listed with RE/MAX for $395,000 (See their website: PennerProperties.com).

BRINGING YOU UP TO SPEED ON THE LATEST BUZZ AROUND TOWN! After spending more than a dozen years on Pelee Island running Conorlee’s, a successful delicatessen and bakery, Matt Costello and Ricki Oltean are ready to make a move back to the mainland. They’ve put their business, with attached three bedroom home, on the market and hope to sell during the approaching summer season. “It’s partly because of the children and their schooling options and partly because we just want to try something new,” says Costello. “We’re preparing to open for our 13th season and we will keep operating until we can find a buyer.” Listing agent Cathie Penner of RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd., Brokerage adds “it’s a fabulous business at the north end of the island and it’s easily a turnkey operation for the right buyer. It’s perfect for active retirees looking for a new business venture in a beautiful setting.” Costello

Rebuffed when he tried to lease space in the ground level of the city-owned Pelissier Street parking garage, Luis Mendez has shifted gears and still plans to open a second location of his True Fitness Windsor business in the city core. The city plans to turn the ground floor back into parking which left Mendez scrambling to find an alternate home. “It took a while to find the right space in the right place,” admits Mendez. “But, we did and I am very enthusiastic about our future downtown.” He says he expects to open True Fitness in the former Miller Canfield law offices at 443 Ouellette Avenue by July 1. Mendez offers personal training services as well as full exercise and training options in an upscale setting. He opened his first True Fitness location at 4897 Tecumseh Road East three years ago and believes downtown workers and residents are ready for a full-service fitness centre. “There’s nothing else like it downtown,” claims Mendez. “The Y closed and moved out to Central Avenue so there are no real options downtown.” Mendez has 15 personal trainers on his roster and more than 200 clients. “We think there is a market for our services with the number of professionals and other people who work downtown,” he states. For more information, visit their website: TrueFitnessWindsor.com.

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Windsor’s latest Metro grocery store is no more than a month away from its official opening in the former Target store at Devonshire Mall. It’s expected that the massive retail space will generate more than 100 jobs bringing the company’s total workforce in Windsor to over 600 people. Redevelopment plans at the mall, expected to cost more than $70 million, also include a new and expanded food court with new dining options, an expanded seating area as well as added retail choices. “This is an exciting time for the centre,” says General Manager Chris Savard, while adding, their “program reaffirms Devonshire Mall’s commitment to remaining the premier shopping destination in the Windsor area.” Construction is already underway and is expected to be completed in phases by the end of 2018. The mall will remain open during the redevelopment.

Earth Eatery, a restaurant specializing in healthy dining options, opened in April at 337 Ouellette Avenue, under Owner Ashik Murad. “Serving health-conscious food is a no-brainer in my opinion,” says Murad. “We believe there is a lot of demand for healthy food choices and that’s what we offer.” The menu includes such items as chia and hemp pancakes, organic spinach and cheese omelettes, cold-pressed juices, veggie sandwiches, grilled salmon sandwiches, hummus, soup, salads and desserts. Murad also operates another Earth Eatery (EarthEatery.ca) at 7610 Tecumseh Road East, which opened three months ago. “We didn’t really do a lot of promotion — and business has been great already,” says Murad. “We’re having a blast and we already have a lot of loyal customers. We believe we will find the same following downtown.”

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN The United Way/Centraide WindsorEssex County and the Small Business Centre (SBC) a department of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation, announced a new regional grant program in April 2017 — the “Neighbourhood Small Business Grant.” The purpose of these grants is to encourage new and existing businesses to locate in Priority Neighbourhoods across Windsor and Essex County. It is a part of a broad-based community and economic revitalization and provides training opportunities to applicants by the SBC. Through this partnership, four grants of $5,000 will be awarded throughout 2017 with applications now open up to July 1, 2017. The Neighbourhood Small Business Grant will support businesses looking to open in West Windsor, Downtown Windsor, the Glengarry-Marentette area, the Ford City neighbourhood and targeted areas in the County — Uptown Leamington, Essex Centre, and Harrow. To access the eligibility criteria, link to the application and to see more detailed information you can visit the SBC website at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness. com/neighbourhoodgrant. In April the Motor City Community Credit Union announced the introduction of FLEX chequing accounts, which offers added benefits for all current members and anyone looking for better banking solutions. “FreeFlex,” their new no fee account, requires no minimum balance to enjoy the benefits of FREE chequing, whether online or in-branch. “Flex+” offers premium features you need that won’t break the bank. “Flex62+” is exclusive to members who are 62 years of age or older and offers premium features, for FREE. Additionally, their new “YouthSave” account offers an unheard of 2% interest rate on the first $10,000 for anyone younger than 18.

This account encourages youth to save for their future. Motor City Community Credit Union is also launching two new exciting features to complement the new accounts. “Open Anywhere” allows anyone to open an account and become a member from anywhere. “ClickSWITCH” enables new and existing members to leave the big bank behind by switching automatic payments and direct deposits with the click of a mouse. To find a branch near you check out: MCCCU.com.

NEW IN BIZ The doors to Milestone Photography Studio, officially open mid-May. The brand new 5,000 square foot facility, located at 3449 Walker Road in Windsor, is a presentation platform and gallery for both fashion, photography, and art. Featuring multiple areas for rehearsal, meeting, and expression, Milestone was built to be a home for our community as a whole, to learn, grow, and develop a lifelong appreciation and love for the visual arts. The centre offers quality programming for everything from photography to painting to yoga for all ages and skill levels. “We even have interest from a local CPR expert to teach here,” says Co-owner and Creator Brent Groh. Supporting the programming will be open studio time, as well as workshops in a variety of media and specialties. Photographer and Co-Owner Terri McPherson adds, “Our mission is to provide instruction and encourage artistic expression in a variety of media through classes, open studios, and workshops in a supportive and collaborative environment.” Throughout the year, Milestone will organize numerous free community exhibits and a fine art gallery for local artisans

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to sell their work. Jason Telasco is a framing expert who has set-up an exclusive area within the studio to teach framing and matting. “We are offering a space where members of the community can explore their creativity in an inclusive environment,” Telasco explains. The owners invite local photographers and artists to drop by and see the new studio. It’s official! Windsor’s first circus school opened its doors on May 1, 2017, downtown at 511 Pelissier Street. This independently operated aerial arts, acrobatics and circus program offers students of all ages the opportunity to experience the thrill of circus through professional, instructordirected classes. The Windsor Circus School features an array of classes, private parties, workshops, open gyms, and seminars. It is their mission to create a safe, welcoming, and fun environment for all who pass through their doors. The staff and instructors strive to promote physical literacy and healthy habits in every activity. Weekly adult and youth classes are held over an eight week period in a myriad of circus arts including: Aerial Silks, Aerial Hoop (Lyra), Inversions, Juggling, and more. In addition to its regular classes, Windsor Circus School will engage, inspire and empower area youth and adults by offering open gyms, morning preschool playtime, and youth centred courses. Further information and class registration is available at: WindsorCircusSchool.com. Alysia Brown is a Cosmetic Tattoo Artist and YUMI Lash Enhancement Specialist and Owner of Pretty in Ink Cosmetic Tattoo Studio, which opened January 2017. The studio offers Microblading, (aka brow tattoo). A disposable hand held tool and semipermanent plant based pigment is used to delicately hand draw small tattoo strokes in

the skin to mimic natural hairs. The results can be very natural or defined leaving the customer with gorgeous brows that enhance their individual face shape lasting one to three years. The studio also offers YUMI Lash Enhancement, an advanced technique revolutionizing the beauty world. The procedure takes your natural lashes, tints and turns them upwards giving them ultimate LVL (Lift, Volume, Length). The final results — dark, thick, long lashes that look like you’ve applied a coat of mascara, enhancing your own natural beauty and lasting eight to 12 weeks. No fills or false lashes required! Celebrity approved! Bookings can be done by emailing: pretty_in_ink_tattoo@outlook.com OR through their online booking app: M.Vagaro.com/prettyinink.

HALL OF FAME Six Windsor & Essex County based Realtors were recently recognized in Real Estate Professional (REP) magazine’s 2017 “Top 200 Agents” list. They were: Goran Todorovic, Brad Bondy, Tim Campbell and Brady Thrasher of RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd., Tasha Slater of Century 21 Erie Shores Realty and Paul Germanese of Royal LePage Binder Real Estate. The third annual feature shines the spotlight on leading Realtors who are elevating the entire industry by going above and beyond for their respective clients. This year’s list was compiled through a combination of Multiple Listing Service data and online survey results to determine the top agents in the industry. To allow for discrepancies in home prices in different markets, REP focused on the number of transactions per agent rather than overall sales volume. The outcome — a definitive list of the “best of the best” Realtors in the Canadian market who are continuously providing valuable insights and strategies for properties. “2016 was a defining year for the Canadian Realtor,” says Clay Jarvis, REP journalist. “But, not all agents are created equal and in this feature, we present those

who are excelling in the industry with great efforts and valuable insights. These agents have gone above and beyond for their clients and should be commended.” For the full report see issue 3.01 of Real Estate Professional or log on to: The list is also available at: RepMag.ca/e-magazines/

the “Outstanding Corporate Contribution” Award. In 2016, the Holiday Beach Demonstration Wetland was constructed, thanks to a $33,000 contribution from Enbridge. This one-acre wetland project will serve as a model of Best Management Practices for landowners, demonstrating a reduction in the amount of sediment and nutrients in our waterways. As well as providing funding, Enbridge employees planted the native riparian species at this wetland.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO . . .

Susan Stockwell Andrews, President, Essex Region Conservation Foundation presents the “Outstanding Corporate Contribution” Award to Enbridge Inc.’s Ian MacRobbie and Suzanne Shea. Photo courtesy of ERCF.

A year of outstanding successes in enriching the Place for Life was celebrated at the Essex Region Conservation Foundation (ERCF)’s Annual General Meeting March 29, 2017. “We demonstrated our strengthened relationship as we launched our new Place for Life visual identity,” states Richard Wyma, the Foundation’s Executive Director. “As well, we completed fundraising for the Cypher Systems Group Greenway, and broke ground in September.” The opening of this long-awaited community trail is expected to take place soon. 2017 also marks the 40th anniversary for the Foundation and a number of exciting initiatives will be celebrated throughout the year. (See: EssexRegionConservation.ca to get more details). In addition, at the AGM the “Conservation Foundation Awards” were also presented with J. Claire Wales receiving the “Clifford Hatch Conservation Foundation” Award for his contributions to trail development in the Place for Life. Enbridge Inc. was also recognized with

Happy 10th anniversary Netmon Inc and to its CEO Eric Lamoureux! The Windsor based tech company provides IT Solutions, Monitoring Solutions and Managed Services for businesses across Windsor & Essex County and Southwestern Ontario. Check out their new headquarters at 55 Edinborough Street, Suite 200 in Windsor or visit: NetmonServices.com.

ON THE MOVE City of Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens and Chief Administrative Officer Onorio Colucci, are pleased to announce the City’s newest Corporate Leadership Team member. Executive Director of Recreation and Culture Jan Wilson has taken on the added responsibilities of the Parks Department and Facilities Division. She has been in a leadership position in Windsor for over 25 years, with over a decade at the Executive Director level where she has played an important role in numerous projects and committees, including the Parks Master Plan, Municipal Cultural Master Plan, Museum Feasibility Development Study, Community Strategic Plan, Malden Park Development Master Plan, Mic Mac Park Development Master Plan and more. The additional roles were assumed on April 10, 2017 with the following few weeks devoted to the transition of departments among the other corporate leadership team areas.

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

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WINDSOR ESSEX *unless noted the area code to dial is 519 May 7: The “4th Annual Baba’s High Tea” hosted by the Windsor Tea Emporium takes place at Central Park Athletics, 3400 Grand Marais Road East in Windsor from noon until 3:30 p.m. Admission $40 and you can buy tickets online at: WindsorCancerFoundation.org. Event features an exciting retro-style live paddle auction accompanied by the finest selection of loose leaf teas, scones, soup, traditional tea sandwiches and pastries. Guests are welcome to wear their favourite hat or fascinator to complete the theme. Benefitting “This One’s For The Girls,” a local fundraising campaign in support of cancer awareness, research and treatment for women living in Windsor Essex. To learn more email:foundation@wrh.on.ca OR call 254-5577. May 11: “Regional After Business Tradeshow 2017” presented by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce at the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association Hangar, 2600 Airport Road in Windsor from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Admission $15 to $25. To find out more email: bmalmberg@windsorchamber.org OR dial 966-3696. May 13: “Science Rendezvous” at the University of Windsor from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission and parking. This annual event features exciting science demonstration, hand-on activities, experiments as well as celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday. For more info email: srwindsor2017@gmail.com; view: ScienceRendezvous.ca OR call 226-260-7354. May 18: The “Battle of the Hors D’oeuvres” for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex Foundation at Caesars Windsor, Augustus Ballroom, 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. featuring 20 of Windsor’s finest food and beverage establishments. Be a food critic for the night and vote for your favourite to win! Tickets $85 at: BigBrothersBigSistersWE.ca. For more info email: hayley.morgan@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca OR call 945-6232. May 19&20: The City of Windsor commemorates its milestone 125th birthday with a celebration to remember. Friday night, experience the University of Windsor Athletics Club’s “Night Flight Pole Vault,” the “Mission Mile Walk/Run,” extended patios, stage entertainment and outdoor big screen broadcasts of the “Mastercard Memorial Cup” games. Saturday morning, celebrate “Windsor125” with the annual “Mayor’s Walk” (10 a.m.; Ambassador Park to Dieppe Gardens), the raising of the Great Canadian Flag (10:45 a.m.; Ouellette Avenue at Riverside Drive), and a festival of art,

entertainment, activities, exhibits, food and fun (noon to 4 p.m.); “The Vision Corridor” outside Adventure Bay and the Chimczuk Museum/Art Gallery of Windsor. Saturday night, the party is back on with extended patios, stage entertainment and “Mastercard Memorial Cup” broadcasts downtown. For details visit: Celebrating2017.ca and click on “The Big Stuff.” May 19, 20&21: The May “Homecoming Weekend” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of St. Clair College. For full details visit: StClairCollege.ca/scc50/events and also see the cover story starting on page 18 of this issue. May 26: The “2nd Annual Celebrity Men Fashion Show” at Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside Drive East in Windsor from 6:30 until 10 p.m. This is the ultimate ladies night out but men are welcome too! The evening starts off with hors d’oeuvres catered by Koolini Italian Eatery, a silent auction, mingling, photo opportunities and more in The White Room. The fashion show portion of the evening consists of 10 well-known local men who will infuse their personalities as they strut down the runway. Admission $60-$75. For more info email: emuscat@kidney.on.ca; call 977-9211; OR refer to: Kidney.ca/celebritymen. May 27: The “Heart Breaker Challenge” at Malden Park, 4200 Malden Road in Windsor from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. challenges participants to walk, jog or run roughly a 5 to 7 km course with a number of obstacles. Their main goal is to raise funds for the Cardiac Wellness & Pulmonary Rehab Centre at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. Admission $25 with online registration at: HeartBreakerChallenge.org OR $30 on day of event. Call for details 257-5111 May 27: “Glow Ride 2017” presented by the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation at the Riverside Sportsmen Club, 10835 Riverside Drive East in Windsor from 6 to 10:30 p.m. Take a 7.5 km night time bike ride on the beautiful Ganatchio Trail and surrounding Riverside neighbourhood that is sure to put a smile on your face and a good feeling in your soul. This year’s proceeds to benefit “This One’s For The Girls,” a local fundraising campaign in support of cancer awareness, research & treatment for women living in Windsor Essex. Admission $45. For more info email:foundation@wrh.on.ca; log on to: GlowRide.ca OR call 254-5577. May 27 & 28: “Air Show” at the Windsor International Airport. Details at: AirShowYQG.com May 28: “The Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History” in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Canada Essex-Kent Chapter at the Vollmer Centre, 2121 Laurier Pkwy, LaSalle. Pledges required. Check in: 10 a.m.; walk begins 11 a.m.

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and runs until 1 p.m. Register online beforehand at: CysticFibrosis.ca/walk. Questions? Email: dramsten@cysticfibrosis.ca OR phone 252-2850. June 1: The “Windsor Women in Business Expo” presented by Natalie Hartleib at the Windsor Yacht Club, 9000 Riverside Drive East, 6 to 9 p.m. Mix and mingle while learning about some of the great businesses here in Windsor. Free to attend, cash bar available, hors d’oeuvres served. For further details email:windsorwomeninbusiness@gmail.com; go to: Facebook.com/events/1196662907122842 OR call 996-9255. June 3: Pat Pagano presents the “15th Annual HandiCapable Fishing Derby” with special guest, Italo Labignan host of Canadian SportFishing TV Show; entertainment by Music Express, Windsor Flyboard and Elsa & Anna from Frozen. Location: Assumption Park (the foot of Ambassador Bridge), starting at 9 a.m. Any Special Needs Kids to participate at no cost, to register visit: ICHA.ca OR call 977-1209. June 5: The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce’s “81st Annual Golf Tournament” at Pointe West Golf Club in Amherstburg from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Golf registration includes: club drop-off, registration gift, deli lunch, golf with power cart, dinner, prizes for the top three teams and most honest team, raffle/silent auction during dinner. Cost to attend $250. For more info call 966-3696 OR email: bmalmberg@windsorchamber.org. June 6: CAMSC “Cross Border B2B Forum” presented by the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council takes place at Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor with Opening & Mingle 2 p.m.; Marketplace Appointments 2:30 p.m. and Networking Reception 4:30 p.m. Join FCA, GM, Toyota and automotive Tier 1 companies and connect one-to-one with a wide range of manufacturing, transportation and indirect certified suppliers serving the automotive sector in both Canada and the USA. Admission $275. For more info email:dshih@camsc.ca, refer to: CAMSC.ca OR call 416-941-0004. June 8 to 11: The “30th Annual LaSalle Strawberry Festival” at Gil Maure Park, Front Road at Laurier Drive, features Canadian band “The Philosopher Kings” on June 10. The “LaSalle Strawberry Festival” is proud to be named one of Ontario’s “Top 100 Festivals” by Festivals and Events Ontario. The festival features a carnival, fireworks, a parade, a talent show, live entertainment and of course fresh local strawberries! Download their FREE app or visit: LaSalle.ca to get the latest info. June 10&11: “3 On 3 Basketball Tournament:

Mad Hoops In The Lot” see page 32 of this issue for all details on registering. June 11: The “4th Annual Jeep Jam Poker Run,” See page 35 of this magazine to learn more.

METRO DETROIT & REGION May 4 to 14: Sterling Heights Regional Chamber’s “Sterling Center Carnival” at the Sterling Center Shopping Plaza on Schoenherr just south of Hall Road. Get further details at: SHRCCI.com. May 11: Sterling Heights Regional Chamber’s “Young Professionals Networking and Professional Development” event, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. takes place at the Vintage House, 31816 Utica Road, Fraser. Your $13 ticket includes lite bites, drink ticket, DJ, photo booth, open cornhole and more. Check SHRCCI.com for more information. May 12: Sterling Heights Regional Chamber’s “Breakfast and Business” 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Sterling Lanes, 33200 Schoenherr, Sterling Heights. Free for pre-registered Chamber members or $5 at the door. $20 for “not yet” members. Further details found here: SHRCCI.com. May 17: Sterling Heights Regional Chamber’s “Michigan Week Luncheon” featuring the Sterling Edge Awards, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wyndham Garden, 34911 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights. $30 for Chamber members or $35 for “not yet” members. More information on their website: SHRCCI.com.

Celebrating “National Nursing Week” May 8 to 14, 2017 Newcomer Nurses Bring Global Experience To Healthcare In Windsor CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs; Care4nurses.org) is a bridgetraining program funded by the Government of Ontario and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to support immigrant nurses to registration and employment. IENs make up 12 to 25 percent of the nursing workforce in Ontario, bringing cultural diversity and skills to patient care in the province. Randa Al Hassani gained her RN designation and now works as a charge nurse at Randa Al Hassani Extendicare Southwood Lakes (1255 North Talbot Road) and Chateau Park Nursing Home (2990B Riverside Drive West) long-term care facilities in Windsor. Randa (RH) shared her journey with Biz X in honour of “National Nursing Week” which recognizes the dedication of RNs, RPNs and NPs (see Ontario Nurses’ Organization; ONA.org), by answering a few questions. Biz X: Why did you choose to immigrate to Ontario? RH: My family and I chose to immigrate to Canada as it is the best country in the world with outstanding education and healthcare systems. Ontario offers exceptional access to healthcare, so being a nurse here is a great honour to me.

My employers and co-workers give me great support and being part of a team that improves the quality of life for our seniors every day, I consider that an amazing role. Biz X: How does nursing here compare to your experience in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates? RH: My scientific and clinical nursing education and experience overseas were comparable to Ontario’s highly developed quality and standards. My background played a significant role in obtaining my credentials here. Biz X: How did CARE Centre help you? RH: CARE Centre supported me by setting up an action plan to successfully complete all the necessary steps to qualify as a registered nurse in Ontario. The College of Nurses requires IENs to pass written, clinical and jurisprudence exams, and to prove language proficiency. My case manager Anna Wilson also helped me gain employment in Windsor by critiquing my résumé, teaching me interview skills and providing a Canadian reference. Biz X: Do you have any advice for newcomer nurses? RH: If there is a bump in your journey, get over it quickly as there is no failure, only success delayed. Set up goals, build your confidence, keep your knowledge up-to-date and seek advice from professionals and experts to aid your transition into the Ontario workforce. Then the sky’s the limit!

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Celebrating the profession. It takes dedication to be a nurse. An extensive education. Long hours gaining experience and skills. And a lifetime of compassion. It’s not only a profession, it’s a calling.

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The sign to St. Clair College at the Mercer Street temporary campus in 1967. Photos throughout story courtesy of St. Clair College Archives & St. Clair Alumni Association, unless marked.

Saints’ Athletics have always been a huge part of college life and cheerleaders were big supporters of all teams.

50 Anniversary! TO

St. Clair College’s

By Rebecca Wright

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t. Clair College President Patti France asserts that when St. Clair College — as one of the pioneers of the province-wide college system — assumed the task of vocational training from the Western Ontario Institute of Technology in 1967, she’s not sure if anyone could have foreseen the scope or importance of the college’s operation today. “From a few hundred students in a handful of academic programs, overseen by a couple of dozen faculty members, in temporary lodgings, we’ve grown into an institution with over 9,400 full-time students studying in 100 plus disciplines, taught by hundreds of faculty members, at four state-of-the-art campuses in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent,” states France. This year marks St. Clair College’s 50th anniversary. In these past five decades, St. Clair has continued to

concentrate on fulfilling the skill-sets needed and demanded by local businesses, industries and agencies. “St. Clair College’s history, therefore, has very much reflected that of the communities it serves — its business trends, its entrepreneurship, its civic projects, its socio-economic changes and, especially, the aspirations of its young people,” France remarks. Everything traditionally said about a college education is true, believes France. At St. Clair College (StClairCollege.ca), there is theory delivered in textbooks and lectures, but instruction is heavily and distinctively weighted towards practical, hands-on, real world learning — “now coupled, as much as possible, in as many programs as possible, with work-placements built into the curriculum,” France adds. “Providing knowledge — yes, of course that is one of our goals,” states France. “But, our overriding aim has always been, and will always be, to instil our graduates with employable workplace skills.” And that message about the unique and intrinsic worth of a college education is getting across to young people, judging by the steadily increasing enrolment at St. Clair and throughout the province-wide system, France notes. This is especially true of their offerings in technology and the skilled trades. Over the past five decades, St. Clair College has continued to grow and evolve, and architecturally, the college has changed dramatically in just the last two decades. These updates include: residences in Windsor and the Thames Campus in Chatham, new athletic facilities at both those sites, the Ford Centre for Excellence in Manufacturing, the Toldo Centre for Applied Health Sciences, the Mary Uniac Health Centre at Thames, the Centre for the Arts and MediaPlex downtown, several new and enhanced Student Centres, the Construction Innovation and Production Centre, and more. “And, within all of those, we’ve housed new equipment, and launched dozens of new academic programs,” adds France. But, the most obvious — and significant — change, in St. Clair College’s function is a very fundamental one, France indicates. While the Ontario college system was, initially, founded to

A student in the new Robotics Technician program in the Ford Centre for Excellence in Manufacturing.

provide local training for the local job market, a lot has changed in 50 years, she says. “Technological advances, electronic entrepreneurship and the increasing mobility of people mean that we’re in a global economy and a global job market,” France comments. “Education has gone global too. We’ve had a record number of international students enrolled at St. Clair during the past two years, and expect that trend to continue for the foreseeable future. Our function, now — because students demand it — is to train anyone from everywhere for jobs anywhere.” But, it’s all about working with and serving the community, and St. Clair has students of all age ranges in their Continuing Education Department (ConEd), which accommodates over 10,000 students in part-time, night-time and weekend courses, every year. France describes that this course calendar covers everything from skills upgrading to learning foreign languages, from motorcycle riding to recreation, from hobbies to highly technical instruction, from swimming lessons to information technology. “The age-range is from pre-schoolers dogpaddling in the pool, to their grandparents learning how to set up home WiFi networks,” says France. “ConEd is our best example of St. Clair’s philosophy of ‘life-long learning’ — and, again, a great example of our responsiveness to the community’s interests.”

Congrats From The Community

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens says St. Clair College is a cornerstone in our community. “I wish St. Clair College a very happy anniversary as they celebrate 50 years of academic excellence, true innovation, and community impact,” declares Dilkens. “With state-of-the-art facilities and diverse program offerings, the college has been able to turn out experts in every field, helping Windsor to boast one of the most highly skilled and talented workforces in the world.” Dilkens says for these past 50 years, St. Clair College has prepared workers to do what matters to them, to do it well, and to do it in a way that impacts the world around them. “Here’s to a future filled with possibilities,” exclaims Dilkens. Essex County Warden and Lakeshore Mayor Tom Bain says St. Clair College has allowed residents to reach their full potential with regards to obtaining employment. “It has provided them with opportunities to raise their skills levels making them more employable,” states Bain. “St. Clair has delivered special courses to meet the needs of local employers in areas where there is a skilled labour shortage.” And Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association Chairman Larry Horwitz raves about St. Clair’s forwardB IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

A Nursing student in the old 1990’s lab (top) and a current shot of a student receiving instruction from Faculty in the Nursing program.

thinking leadership and how it turned downtown into a “smart city.” “They were definitely right in making the major moves at the beginning when no one was there,” says Horwitz, referring to St. Clair’s MediaPlex and Centre for the Arts downtown campuses. “They understood that for a city to be great, you need to move the academic institutions into the downtown core and they turned this city into an attractive pedestrianoriented place . . . When a downtown is strong and when a downtown is dynamic and successful, the whole city is.”

Celebrate Good Times!

France says during her almost two years in the Presidency, she has often remarked upon the fact that St. Clair — and all of their colleague schools throughout the province — were once commonly referred to as “community colleges.” “That term went out of vogue several years ago, and that is really a shame, in my mind,” states France. “Next to the word ‘family,’ I don’t know if there is a nicer, warmer word than ‘community’ — I suppose because I view the community as just a big family.” That being the case, France says that aside from St. Clair’s primary function of supplying highly trained individuals to the local workforce, St. Clair — its students and staff — have always been active supporters, volunteers and fundraisers for civic projects and local charities. “And the community, in turn, has always been supportive of St. Clair College; participating in our events, welcoming our students for workplacements, donating cash to our scholarship fund, and contributing equipment to our workshops and labs,” reports France. “So, none of our 50th anniversary celebrations have been strictly in-house affairs,” adds France. “From the earliest planning stages of our

events, we wanted the welcome mat to be rolled out to the public at-large: to tour our facilities, to re-unite as alumni, to dine with us, and to otherwise accept our gratitude for your 50 years of supporting St. Clair.” The St. Clair College Alumni Association has been an integral part of the college’s history throughout its 50 years and this year is no exception, according to Alumni Association President Tom Malanfant. “The Alumni Association is participating in numerous events throughout the year, ranging from handing out 100 — $15 gift cards to students at Griff’s Cavern at the Windsor Campus in January to celebrate the launch of the 50th year celebrations, to sponsoring the ice rental at Lanspeary Park for Knobby’s Kids so all children from our community can experience the joy of playing hockey,” states Malanfant. “It is so important to continue to connect with the over 95,000 alumni from St. Clair College,” he continues. “These connections provide an opportunity for alumni to hear about the recent advancements taking place at their college.” Celebrating 50 years as a college is truly a community milestone, Malanfant asserts, and the alumni community is encouraged to get involved, stay connected, and attend this year’s celebrations. “We have so much to be proud of at St Clair,” stresses Malanfant. “And you don’t want to miss the opportunity to be part of it!” Although there are numerous activities planned this year, St. Clair College is hosting two “Homecoming Weekends” — one in May for the Windsor Campus, and one in September for the Thames Campus. The May “Homecoming Weekend” begins on Friday, May 19 with an Open House at the Main Campus from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. You can listen to the sounds of the Windsor Symphony Youth Orchestra, enjoy some refreshments and tour the campus. Then, on Saturday, May 20, St. Clair College’s “Annual Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament” is at Roseland Golf Course. “Saturday evening features a casual, fun-filled celebration at our beautiful St. Clair Centre for the Arts beginning at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail

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reception followed by a sumptuous four-course meal and entertainment in the Alumni-Skyline Room,” informs Malanfant. “Fireworks will fill the riverfront at 10:15 p.m. followed by more great entertainment and a Saturday Night Fever Disco to cap off the evening.” Sunday, May 21 is the 50th Anniversary Brunch at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, featuring St. Clair’s famous breakfast buffet, states Malanfant. For full details on this special weekend and ticket prices visit: StClairCollege.ca/scc50/events. In the fall, there will be a “Homecoming Weekend” for the Thames Campus that begins Friday, September 29 with an Open House and reception at the Thames Campus. On Saturday, September 30 there will be an OCAA Baseball Game at Fergie Jenkins Park with alumni-sponsored hot dogs and pop followed by a “50th Anniversary Celebration Evening” at the Thames Campus for all to enjoy. On Sunday, October 1, there will be a “Thames Family Fun Day” filled with outdoor activities for families of all ages to come and participate in numerous activities the Chatham Campus. “50 years is a great milestone, and we have so much to celebrate, so please come and see your College, your fellow alumni, and ‘Be A Part of It’ as St Clair College honours its 50 years,” says Malanfant. In addition to all the great activities planned throughout the year, St. Clair College has also

planned “50 Acts From The Heart” in which the college, or one of the Associations such as the Alumni Association, Student Athletic Association, or Student Representative Council, will do a “good deed” each week throughout the year to help celebrate the 50th Anniversary, adds Malanfant. “So be on the lookout, as you never know when we will show up to shower you with an ‘Act From The Heart,’” says Malanfant.

Building A Better Community, One Grad At A Time

France says St. Clair College’s annual “Alumni of Distinction” banquet always leaves her feeling very proud — “and not just because of the professional achievements of the graduates, but because a significant facet of the honour involves the contributions they’ve made to their communities as citizens.” Here are just a handful of those successful alumni . . .

Dino Chiodo, President of Unifor Local 444, Chairperson of the Unifor Ontario Regional Council, Chairperson of the Chrysler Master Bargaining Committee

As a grad of the Law & Security program at St. Clair in 1990, Dino Chiodo says his St. Clair education delivered a deep-rooted social component that a lot of other facilities just cannot provide. “It’s not simply education by

theory or reading a book for comprehension,” says Chiodo. “At St. Clair, it’s interactive, helping prepare you to work through life challenges and scenarios that could happen, providing individuals the skills necessary for everyday life. St. Clair allowed people like myself to gain the confidence needed to speak, understand, investigate and have the confidence to express myself on issues important to me and my fellow students.” As the elected Vice President of the St. Clair College Student Representative Council in 1989, Chiodo comments that he was further provided a good working knowledge and understanding of committees, which are an integral part of his role today. “The education and experiences one receives at St. Clair is second to none,” asserts Chiodo. “It’s the college that people can rely on to give them the knowledge to succeed and apply themselves to really do anything they set their mind to.” Chiodo was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” in 2014.

Roseann Danese, Metro/Business Editor, The Windsor Star

After graduating from the Journalism program at St. Clair in 1983, Roseann Danese knew she had the skills required to pursue

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her dream. “The threeyear program focused on print journalism, and offered many handson classes such as copy editing, reporting and photography,” explains Danese. Students were required to write stories for the program’s publication, The Journal, and they tried to mirror what the Windsor Star did with its coverage of City Hall, the courts and police, she adds. “In other words, we operated in the same way a real newspaper operated, which served me well when I landed an internship at the Windsor Star,” Danese recalls and she is grateful for the opportunity to have several well-established journalists as instructors during her time at St. Clair. “I was fortunate to learn from some of the most talented people in the industry,” says Danese, who was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” in 2008.

John Omstead, Founder & Owner of John O Foods

John Omstead graduated from St. Clair’s four year co-op Industrial Engineering Technology program in 1981, and comments he cannot say enough good things about his experience at the college. “Our I.E. program was an

excellent one and many of the core elements of industrial engineering (effectively Business Engineering) I still use to this day, especially in the fundamentals of organizing business operations on our spreadsheets,” says Omstead. He is now President and CEO of a fish processing business in Wheatley called John O Foods. Prior to this, he owned Tecumseh Green Giant vegetable processing plant. “I think it’s great St. Clair is celebrating their 50th, other than it makes me realize I’m progressing in time as well,” jokes Omstead. “Seems like it was just yesterday I was carpooling with a class-mate or more, driving to or from St. Clair listening to Pink Floyd or Bob Seger.” Omstead was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” in 2015.

Lynn Martin, Radio Broadcaster and Talk Show Host, AM800 CKLW, Bell Media

In 1977, Lynn Martin graduated from St. Clair’s three year Advertising-MarketingBroadcast Journalism program. She says she loved the personal connections between students. “The broadcast journalism course was my favourite and gave me hands-on experience in both radio and TV,” recounts Martin, adding that the beauty of St. Clair

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College is practical work experience. Right after graduation, she worked in marketingsales, then a short stint in graphic arts, and within three months, started in radio as a producer on a talk show. “My education at St. Clair College gave me, not only the experience, but confidence to go further in reaching my goals than I thought possible,” says Martin, who was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” in 2004.

John Wladarski, Vice President of Shared Services & Chief Operating Officer, Enwin Utilities

John Wladarski summarizes his own experience at St. Clair College quite succinctly in just one word — “Outstanding!” He graduated from the Civil Engineering Technology program in 1978 and was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” in 2012. “The curriculum and faculty provided a critical foundation for my career achievements,”

Wladarski says of his St. Clair education. He says it’s hard to believe the college is celebrating 50 years. “When I graduated, the College was only about 10 years old,” he states. “That being said, it has survived and prospered because of the many successes of past graduates, and the vital role it plays in the community.”

Rocco Tullio, President, Rock Developments

Entrepreneur Rocco Tullio graduated from Retail Management program at St. Clair College in 1988. He says the business background that St. Clair provided was great, and something that served as a springboard to his success. “I had a lot of great teachers who were very supportive and they teach you a lot of life skills along with the education, and I was able to parlay that into the successful business that I have today,” remarks Tullio who was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” in 2009. “So, St. Clair has definitely been instrumental in my growth as a business owner for sure.” Tullio says it’s been great to see St. Clair continue to evolve and remain cutting edge over the past five decades. “St. Clair has made huge strides from when

I was there to where it is now,” he believes. “Over the years, it’s developed a great reputation for developing young men and women into great citizens with successful careers. Anytime you can have a school that helps with the growth of the local communities, says a lot about the college itself.”

Andrew Faas, Founder, The Faas Foundation; Former Management Partner & Executive Vice-President of Corporate Development, Shoppers Drug Mart

St. Clair provided the foundation for Andrew Faas to attain success — and he says he was guided and inspired both in and out of the classroom. “My experiences at St. Clair as President of the Student Government gave me unique perspectives on the college system and the role it plays in Canada’s economic and social fabric,” says Faas, who graduated from the Business Marketing program at St. Clair in 1972. In 1992, he was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” and was the first “Premier’s Award” recipient for a Business graduate in the same year. “My St. Clair education prepared me extremely well for leading a successful career and life,”

says Faas. “The ability to practically apply my learning gave me an edge that University grads have struggled with.”

David Sellick, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer, Sellick Equipment

In 1969, David Sellick graduated from the three-year Business Administration and Marketing program. This year, he’s being honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” for his achievements in the world of business. Like other alumni profiled here, he also appreciated that many of his instructors at St. Clair had actual business experience. “St. Clair taught me business fundamentals, which gave me the ability to build the business and to achieve higher education,” says Sellick. He adds that he is honoured to be part of St. Clair’s 50th anniversary: “St. Clair has provided education to many in the community in a wide range of vocations.”

Cole Cacciavillani, President, CF Group of Companies; Co-Founder, Aphria

Although he says he didn’t realize it until later in life, Cole Cacciavillani says his St. Clair education shaped his life. “St. Clair taught

Congratulations on 50 years! WFCU Credit Union is proud to be the official financial institution of St. Clair College and applaud them for the commitment and support they have provided to their students, graduates and our community for the past 50 years. At WFCU Credit Union, we take pride in our commitment towards the betterment of Windsor-Essex and recognize the outstanding achievements of St. Clair College, who have played a significant role in making Windsor-Essex the best place to learn, live and work.

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me discipline, structure, and more importantly, being at St. Clair shaped my social map of life, interacting with real life business situations,” says Cacciavillani, who graduated from the Industrial Engineering program in 1978. “It also had a huge influence on the social nurturing of the corporate and business worlds.” In 2014, he was honoured as an “Alumni of Distinction” recipient. He says St. Clair is one of the community’s pillars and is a community staple. “With long reaching roots into the county, it is imperative that St. Clair be recognized for its accomplishments over the past 50 years and the contributions it has made to the community,” says Cacciavillani. “I can’t image our community without St. Clair College.”

Meighen Nehme, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Job Shoppe; Founder and Chair, “Windsor Corporate Challenge”

Meighen Nehme says St. Clair College had a positive impact in all aspects of her life — professional, personal and community. “Not only did I gain handson experience and skills directly related to my field of study during my education at St. Clair College, but I also learned about the importance of having a strong network and community involvement,” states Nehme, who graduated from the Business, Marketing — Human Resources program in 1999 and was honoured as “Alumni of Distinction” in 2013. By forging close relationships with her teachers, working professionals, alumni and fellow classmates, Nehme built up a network of individuals who supported her throughout her educational and entrepreneurial venture in the creation of The Job Shoppe. “St. Clair College also provided me with opportunities to give back to my community and support local organizations though fundraising and volunteer activates during my tenure,” states Nehme. “This passion as stayed with me over the years and helped inspire the creation of the ‘Windsor Corporate Challenge’.” St. Clair College is a wonderful environment that fosters the desire to learn and promotes personal growth, she adds. “Having a faculty comprised of working professionals provided me, and my classmates, with invaluable real-world knowledge and training,” notes Nehme. “And the class sizes allowed us to make lasting relationships, which allowed our teachers to know about us and our career goals. They were always available to provide feedback and guidance and it was this

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that inspired me to keep pushing myself beyond my comfort zone to achieve my goals.” Nehme says she is thankful for her education at St. Clair College and is very proud to be an alumni.

50 Years of Successes & Triumphs

France states she is astounded by the achievements of St. Clair’s staff and students, a dozen times a day, but some highlights of proud moments over the past 50 years include . . . • Ontario Colleges are measured provincially by Key Performance Indicators and, in 2017, for the fourth year in a row, St. Clair College exceeded the provincial average and topped the provincial colleges in southern Ontario for student satisfaction. It also ranked in the top 5 colleges in the province for Student Satisfaction for the first time in 2017. • St. Clair College has also been the host-site for the regional “Polar Plunge” for Special Olympics for the past three years, during which they’ve raised over $100,000, making this one of the largest fundraisers of its sort in all of Ontario. • St. Clair College has won five national athletic championships in their history (men’s hockey, men’s baseball, women’s softball, women’s golf, and individual men’s cross-country running). • In the 1970s, St Clair developed a number of alternative-fuel and solar-powered cars that excelled in North American engineering contests. • Several years ago, St. Clair College decided to make a parcel of land available at the far south end of their South Campus in Windsor to accommodate the Schlegel Villages seniors facility.

Then, Chez Talbot Restaurant (top) and now . . . Eatery 101.

Uniting The Past To The Present And Future

France says the most exciting development on the short-term horizon is the capacity for the college system — St. Clair included — to begin offering Bachelor-level applied degrees, recognizing the unique ability of colleges to provide both theoretical and practical education in highly specialized fields. “Just a few weeks ago, the provincial Ministry

Responding to the needs of students for a more casual seating, furnished area on campus and a professional entertainment venue, St. Clair’s Student Representative Council (SRC) developed architectural plans and a financial package to convert a former exterior courtyard into 12,864 square feet of interior space configured in two floors. As a result, on March 31, 2017 the facility was unveiled to the public at the South Campus, 2000 Talbot Street Road West, Windsor. Cutting the ribbon for the official grand opening of the Dr. John A. Strasser Student Life Centre from left were: Gayle Strasser, Patti France, President of St. Clair College; Dr. John Strasser, Retired President of St. Clair College; Dan Wilson, Chair of the St. Clair Board of Governors and Holly Nicholson, SRC rep. Photo by Rod Denis.

of Advanced Education and Skills Development gave its preliminary approval to launch our first applied degree program in Social Justice and Legal Studies,” states France. “Still in front of the ministry is a proposed degree program that combines all aspects of business — Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, and Marketing — with Information Technology.” St. Clair will continue to build partnerships

with universities to strengthen what they have to offer, like a recent entrepreneurial agreement they formalized with the University of Windsor. In April, the University of Windsor’s Entrepreneurship, Practice and Innovation Centre (EPICentre; EPICentreUWindsor.ca) extends its entrepreneurial outreach to St. Clair. This has allowed for the merging of the college’s Genesis Entrepreneurship Innovation Centre’s team with EPICentre, creating EPIC Genesis. “Entrepreneurship often involves the collaboration of specialists, and that is certainly reflected in this development,” says France about the collaboration. “The opportunity for our students to work with the students and staff of the university — and their students and staff to work with the college’s — means that entrepreneurs will have access to the cutting-edge expertise of both institutions. When both schools share the ultimate goal of providing tools for student success — why duplicate efforts in this field? The university was well positioned to be the lead agency in this particular partnership, and we’ll continue to explore other opportunities to jointly assist the students of both institutions.” Beyond that, St. Clair will continue to deliver, expand and enhance program offerings in such high-demand fields as health sciences and the skilled trades, assures France. “Fifty years ago, who could have then foreseen the past five decades’ advances in computerization, communication, medicine, physics and other

The new $3.5 million facility was built by Oscar Construction Company Limited and designed by Windsor’s Architecttura Inc. Architects. Representing Architecttura at the official opening ceremonies from left were: Principals Carmen Brunone and Dan Amicone, shown with Michael Di Meo, Sales Representative with Royal LePage Binder Real Estate. Photo by Rod Denis.

facets of science and technology?” asks France. “Likewise, it’s difficult to predict the technology that will exist in the latter half of this century. I can, however, assert that education will always retain the human relationship between student and teacher — probably still delivered, chiefly, in an institutional setting.” As for what St. Clair will be like during its 100th anniversary, France says, “Who can even hazard a guess at that? But, I can say this with complete certainty: Whatever the next 10, 20, 50 or 100 years brings in terms of new technology, new areas of knowledge, and new career opportunities, St. Clair will be here, prepared and eager to serve everyone who seeks an excellent education.”

CONGRATULATIONS! The University of Windsor extends its best wishes to St. Clair College, its partner in education, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

PROMISE @ uwindsor.ca

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An “Unveiling Ceremony” For The New Expansion At Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd.

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT S March 29, 2017 at Cavalier’s Headquarters, 3450 Wheelton Drive, Windsor Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

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

Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing is a producer of medium to large plastic injection moulds. Since 1975 Cavalier has provided tooling for primarily the non-automotive markets — sports recreation, heavy truck, agricultural and commercial. While maintaining a presence in the automotive arena, its focus is still primarily non-automotive product offerings. With several minor expansions over its history, the newly built addition will result in a considerable improvement to the process. Learn more at: CavalierTool.com. 1. Cavalier Tool employees, customers and officials, celebrated as the ribbon was cut to the newly expanded and advanced assembly area now officially open at their facility. The $6 million building boasts $3 million in equipment, including $1 million worth of cranes, which framed our photo of: Tim Galbraith, Sales Manager; Al Fuerth, Tool Making Leader; Mayor Drew Dilkens, City of Windsor; Brian Bendig, President & Owner; Rob Wilson, CNC Leader; Brenda Quint, General Manager; Mike McNaughton, Machining Supervisor; Chris Vander Park, Purchasing Manager, and Larry Caron, Plant Manager. 2. Recognizing the need to promote skilled trades and technical education, Cavalier Tool recently began an in-house training program for recent

grads and junior designers to address the skilled shortage gap. During the ceremony, Cavalier Tool also announced financial support for secondary, college and university programs to help train the next generation of team members and show their commitment, not just to the future of Cavalier, but to the future of the City of Windsor and its backbone, the manufacturing sector. Cavalier Tool representatives are pictured with those from St. Clair College who accepted a $5,000 cheque for equipment and tooling in the Mechanical Engineering and CAD/CAM Programs: Rob Wilson, CNC Leader; Waseem Habash, VP Academic Operations St. Clair College; Brian Bendig, President & Owner; Robert Chittim, Chair of the School of Skilled Trades and Mike McNaughton, Machining Supervisor. 3. A cheque for $5,000 was also presented to the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Engineering department. Photographed were: Al Fuerth, Tool Making Leader; Dr. Patricia Weir, Dean of Graduate Studies at the University of Windsor; Brian Bendig, President & Owner; and Larry Caron, Plant Manager. 4. As well, $5,000 was given to the United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex County On Track to Success program (designed to increase the number of students who attend to post-secondary education.) In the cheque presentation photo BBIZIZ XX MMAAGGAAZZININEE •• MMAAYY 22001177

5 are: Brenda Quint, General Manager; Lorraine Goddard, CEO United Way; Danielle Moldovan, Relationship Manager for United Way; Alicea Fleming, On Track to Success Program Manager West Windsor; Brian Bendig, President & Owner; and Chris Vander Park, Purchasing Manager. 5. Invited VIP guests to the ribbon cutting included Yvonne Pilon, President and CEO of WEtech Alliance, one of the 18 Regional Innovation Centres in the province of Ontario focused on driving the growth and success of WindsorEssex and Chatham-Kent’s technology centric companies and entrepreneurs. Pilon posed for the Biz X photographer with Rose Anguiano Hurst, Executive Director of Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST).

SHOTS

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portfolio corner

Saving Your Way To Success By Steven Mayo The habits that contribute to a successful business person are similar to attaining financial success. Business success may be attained over time, usually 20 plus years, and well earned through persistence, failure, good habits, risk management, people skills and plenty of dedication to a plan. Success in business often spills over to financial success. Over time wealth can increase but it’s the day to day, month to month habits that set each individual on the correct course, whether in business or not. The good news is you do not need a lot of money to achieve financial success! I encourage readers to look into Ben Carlson’s “20 Rules of Personal Finance” and his other commentaries. Carlson is U.S .based and writes a blog on: AWealthOfCommonSense.com. This is a good starting point for most people and a good piece to pass on to many of the 20 and 30 year olds who are looking for sound financial guidance. Some of the rules are as follows . . .

• Salary is not the same as savings. Your net worth is more important than how much money you make. It’s amazing how many people don’t realize this simple truth. Having a high salary does not automatically make you rich; having a low salary does not automatically make you poor. All that matters is how much you save out of your salary. • Saving is more important than investing. Pay yourself first is such simple advice, but so few people do this. The best investment decision you can make is setting a high savings rate because it gives you a huge margin of safety in life. • Live below your means, not within your means. The only way to get ahead financially is to stay behind your own earning power. • Choose your friends and neighbourhood wisely. Robert Cialdini has written extensively on the concept of social proof and how we mirror the actions of others to gain acceptance. Trying to keep up with spendthrift friends or neighbours is a never-ending game with no true winners.

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• Material purchases won’t make you happier in the long-run. There is something of a short-term dopamine hit we get through retail therapy, but it always wears off. Buying stuff won’t make you happier or wealthier. • Taxes matter. Taxes can be maddeningly complicated, but can help you save money over time if you know where to look. Take advantage of as many tax breaks as you can and always understand your personal tax situation. No doubt about it, following these rules requires discipline. The result is well-earned, eventual independence and personal satisfaction. That’s the right goal. The following, I believe, are clues that one is straying off course . . . - You still think Starbucks is a culturally important place. - You eat out three times a week. - Your savings rate is lower than your phone bill. Keeping things simple works — Repeat, repeat, repeat. My closing quote for this edition: “If you can’t explain it to a six year old you don’t understand it yourself.” ~ Albert Einstein Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT

Accelerator Team Represents Windsor At The Largest Gathering Of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Leaders On The Planet By Arthur Barbut

he International Business Innovation Association (InBIA; InBIA.org) is a global non-profit that represents 2,200 entrepreneurial organizations. With networks extending over 62 countries, InBIA provides education and enables collaboration, mentorship, peer-based learning, and the sharing of innovative ideas. In late March the “31st International Conference on Business Incubation” in Seattle, WA provided an opportunity for entrepreneurial leaders from around the globe to connect and discover industry best practices. I, along with Siddique Sheikh, was fortunate to attend the event to represent the Windsor Essex region and the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator. The conference featured four incredible keynote presentations and provided over 40 sessions of interactive workshops and panels. The keynotes featured at the conference included . . . • John Harthorne, Founder & CEO, MassChallenge — the largest start-up friendly accelerator on the planet. • Steven Koltai, Managing Director, Koltai & Company — a 30 year entrepreneurial veteran, he has served as a Senior Advisor to the U.S. State Department and created the Global Entrepreneurship Program under President Obama. • Victor Hwang (pictured on this page), VP of Entrepreneurship, The Kauffman Foundation — a well-established author, entrepreneur and powerhouse ecosystem builder, Hwang has launched many Silicon Valley venture-backed start-ups and was the founder of the “Global Innovation Summit.” • Steve Kessel, SVP, Amazon — Kessel serves as Senior Vice President at Amazon and currently leads the Amazon Book and Amazon Go stores. This was our second conference, having attended the “30th International Conference on Business Incubation” hosted last year in Orlando, but this was our first as an official member of InBIA. It was an incredible experience, with

Siddique Sheikh and Arthur Barbut, from the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator, were among the 550 attendees from 40 countries at the “31st International Conference on Business Incubation.” The two are pictured at the left (9 o’clock position) in the table up front.

global collaboration dominating the discussion. This provided an excellent opportunity to showcase our region and highlight the excellent partnerships the Accelerator has developed with business incubators/accelerators and angel groups in the U.S.

Keynote speaker Victor Hwang, VP of Entrepreneurship from the Kauffman Foundation. Photos courtesy of Meredith Hall, Social Media Marketing Manager, InBIA.

The next phase in the development for the Accelerator includes the A2X Project, which represents a unique cross border entrepreneurial collaboration between Canada and the United States. Through the A2X Project, we will become a launching pad for Canadian high-growth technology and innovation start-ups into the U.S. market.

At the same time, we will develop the landing pad for U.S. start-ups that wish to enter the Canadian market and establish an international presence. The reception we received for the A2X Project was incredible and we have already received numerous invitations to connect with a number of incubators in the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the Accelerator is in the process of completing the Soft Landings Designation (refer to page on the website: InBIA.org/global-programs/soft-landings), which is targeted to entrepreneurship centres that are able to service the needs of foreign companies wanting to enter our market. As a Soft Landing Designate, the Accelerator will be able to attract new clients from across the globe and make Windsor an international destination. The “31st International Conference on Business Incubation” was a huge success for the Accelerator. We had the opportunity to connect with, and share ideas with, the foremost experts in the field and we are being recognized as an incredible success story. Our goal is to make this region a hotbed entrepreneurial activity and a magnet for world-class entrepreneurial talent.

For more information regarding the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator, 720 Ouellette Avenue and how you can become a positive contributor to the region’s entrepreneurs, please contact Managing Director, Arthur Barbut by emailing: Arthur@downtownaccelerator.com. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

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www.WelcomeCentreShelter.com BLSAC photos by Rod Denis

The Black Law Students’ Association of Canada (BLSAC) held their “26th Annual National Conference” in Windsor from February 9 to 11, 2017, during “Black History Month.” As part of the festivities, a formal gala was held at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts with Keynote Speaker Anthony Morgan from Falconers LLP in Toronto. He is shown with the National Conference Chair Nashara Peart, a second year law student in the Dual JD program offered by the University of Windsor in Windsor, and University of Detroit Mercy in Detroit.

Representing Windsor Essex at the gala were local politicians and lawyers, with their legal staff, from various firms, including from left: Phil West, Sherrelle Gillen, Legal Assistant M. Gordnerlaw Professional Corporation; Tammy and John Elliott, Windsor City Councillor, Ward 2.

The “Lifetime Achievement Award Winner” honoured on this special evening was Judge Juanita Westmoreland-Traoré (left) from Montreal, Quebec. She was the first black Dean of a law school in Canada when she was Dean of Windsor Law in the ‘90s. She is pictured with BLSAC President Stéphanie Déborah Jules, a fourth year student in the combined Common Law and Civil Law program at McGill University’s Faculty of Law. She holds a BA in the Honours Criminology program from the University of Ottawa, where she distinguished herself by graduating Magna Cum Laude.

Kidney Photos by Rod Denis

BLSAC is a national, not-for-profit, student-run organization with chapters in law schools across Canada (Learn more at: BLSACanada.com). The University of Windsor Faculty Of Law staff and students attending from left were: David Tanovich, Professor; Timothy Brooks, Ruebe James, Lois Boateng, Dalisha Dyal, Chandra Ewing, Kathy Conteh, Vivian Ntiri, Amitha Carnadin, Sean Reginio and Sujith Xavier, Assistant Professor. From the Windsor & District Chapter Advisory Committee for the fashion show event, President Michael Mastronardi is surrounded by his dedicated team of hard working women — Elizabeth Nagy; Terri McPherson; Natalie Saby, Fund Development Assistant; Tina Gobbo, and Erika Muscat, Fund Development Officer. Purchase your tickets online now at: Kidney.ca/CelebrityMen.

The “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” for The Kidney Foundation of Canada takes place May 26, 2017 at the Water’s Edge Event Centre. The model line-up was revealed at a Media Launch on April 13. The sharp dressed group of male models, with the two event emcees, from left, were: Matt Dunlop, Mainstream Marketing; TJ Laramie, MMA Fighter; Shawn Talbot, Event Marketer; Dr. Wayne Callaghan, Nephrologist; Dr. Amit Bagga, Chief of Nephrology; MC Colin Botten 100.7 Cool FM; Dr. David C. Mady, Dentist; MC Michelle Mainwaring, Freelance Actress; Rakesh Naidu, Chief Operating Officer, Windsor-Essex Economic Development Corporation; Vern Myslichuk, Entrepreneur, BetterMade Cabinets; Dr. Vince Ruisi, Physician; and Dr. Phil Tremblay, Resident Physician.

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On March 31, 2017 Windsor’s BMO (Bank of Montreal) branch at 200 Ouellette Avenue treated their patrons to cake, refreshments and special treats to celebrate its 149 year old anniversary — at the same location for all those years. From left were: Jim Inglis, Tammy Faddoul (Branch Manager), Tina Truant, Denise Drouillard, Jessy Jeffrey, Alec Lauziere, Stephanie Cecile and Michael Virk. BMO nationally is celebrating its 200th birthday this year as Canada’s oldest banking institution — 50 years longer than Canada has been a country. Photo by Joe McParland.

KEYS TO SUCCESS

New Online Tool To Help Local Businesses And Job Seekers

Workforce WindsorEssex, the region’s Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC), has launched a new online tool called “WEsearch” that makes the process of researching business funding opportunities, as well as employment services and or upgrading programs, easier than ever. WEsearch simplifies the task of researching programs and services, so that businesses and job-seekers can focus on what matters most — growing their business or finding their next job. By answering a few questions about the kind of help a user is looking for, WEsearch presents information about organizations, programs and/or services that match their needs, utilizing a free, easy to use, way finding tool. One of the best aspects of WEsearch is that it can be embedded into other websites while providing some customization. Partners currently hosting WEsearch on their websites include, Unemployed Help Centre, the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, the Windsor-Essex Small Business Centre, and the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. The City of Windsor and the University of Windsor

created links from their websites to WEsearch. “During the development process, members of our Central Planning Table and working groups made it clear that they didn’t want another website,” comments Doug Sartori, Board Chair, and Central Planning Table and Working Group member, Workforce WindsorEssex. “We didn’t want to ask community partners to drive web traffic to an external website while they were trying to drive traffic to their own site. Instead, we chose to bring WEsearch to places where job-seekers and businesses would naturally look for help, allowing it to be displayed there without cost while offering some customization.” Michelle Suchiu, Acting Executive Director, Workforce WindsorEssex adds, “We have a lot of dedicated organizations and professionals in Windsor-Essex who want to help businesses grow and job-seekers find new employment. WEsearch is a community-led solution that will make finding available programs and services easier for job-seekers and businesses.” Workforce WindsorEssex thanks the volunteer members of the Central Planning Table and its three working groups — Service

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Provision, Employer Engagement, and Intergovernmental —for their contributions in shaping the project and its content (LEPC.WorkforceWindsorEssex.com/centralplanning-table/). This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario as part of the Local Employment Planning Council pilot. The LEPC pilot aims to increase the access to accurate, up to date, local labour market information and help pioneer new and innovative approaches to local employment planning. The WEsearch tool is one of 13 strategic projects that Workforce WindsorEssex will complete in phase one of the LEPC pilot project (by May 31, 2017). • WEsearch helps users find business funding sources, job-seeker supports, labour marketing information, skills and education upgrading opportunities, as well as apprenticeship supports. • Access the English WEsearch tool online at: WorkforceWindsorEssex.com/tool. • Access the French WEsearch tool here: fr.workforcewindsoressex.com/outil.

EVENT PROFILE

“3 On 3 Basketball Tournament: Mad Hoops In The Lot” June 10 & 11, 2017 By Dave Hall

rganizers of a three-on-three basketball tournament are expecting as many as 350 competitors to hit the courts in the Sears parking lot at Devonshire Mall the weekend of June 10 to 11. The event, organized by Border City Sports & Events, will benefit the Windsor & District Chapter of The Kidney Foundation of Canada and Youth Embracing Today’s Youth (Y.E.T.Y). John Dunstan of Border City indicates that the tournament features a variety of divisions encompassing a wide range of ages and ability levels from under-nine mixed teams, all the way to competitive adult teams. “We’re hoping we can attract as many as 120 teams over the two days and make it a fun weekend for everyone,” says Dunstan, a partner in Border City with Reggie Salazar. Divisions include: Youth 7 to 9 years, 10 to 13 years and 14 to 17 years; Men over 18; Women over 18 and a competitive division designed for former college and university athletes. Youth teams can be same sex or co-ed. Dunstan, who is originally from Montreal, has always been involved in sports activities as well as scouts, cadets, and day/ summer camps and wants to give children in the Windsor area access to the same kind of programs. “Through Border City Sports and Events, we’re planning to create year-round programs in sports and arts to help empower kids to do something positive and achieve their goals,” Dunstan comments. “I grew up in that type of environment and I want to use that background to give something back to area kids through our programs.” Dunstan, who works for a security company and also as a personal trainer adds, “This basketball event will be our coming out party.” It’s a similar story at Y.E.T.Y where Pastor Paul Riley of Harrison Memorial Church oversees a program, which provides summertime drop-in activities at Windsor Water World on Wyandotte Street East. Although the pool is closed, Y.E.T.Y. volunteers run programs in basketball and other physical activities, as well as culinary classes. “We are 100 percent behind this basketball event and we feel very honoured to have been chosen as one of the beneficiaries of the funds,” states Riley. “We will be providing volunteers to help run the event and we

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feel it’s going to be a great success.” Last summer, Y.E.T.Y attracted an average of 40 kids a day to the eight-week program as well as 25 children, three times a week for culinary classes.

“The kids not only learned how to cook, but they were able to take food home to their families, which we were very happy about,” says Riley. Riley mentions this summer’s Y.E.T.Y programs start July 1 and once again run for eight weeks. If sufficient funds can be raised, Riley hopes to extend the program beyond eight weeks. Find out more by going to: YETYcenter.com. Erika Muscat, Fund Development Officer for The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter (Kidney.ca/ WindsorEssex) says her organization is helping promote the basketball tournament but otherwise their involvement is very low-key. “Border City has been wonderful and very supportive of our organization and we are very pleased to play a small role in what we hope will be a very successful event,” Muscat remarks. The tournament, meanwhile, runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day in the parking lot adjacent to Sears. Registration fees are $125 per team and the deadline to participate is June 4. Event organizers also wish to acknowledge presenting sponsors — Biz X magazine and In Play Magazine, FOURTEEN Restaurant and Sky Lounge, AM800 CKLW (radio sponsor), Meg Eve Lyn (graphic design) and their official sports drink, Electrolife — for making the tournament possible. For more information or to register a team, visit: BorderCitySportsAndEvents.com.

ON THE ENTERTAINMENT SCENE

Anchor’s Away . . . It’s Time To Jump Aboard A Windsor River Cruise

ne of Windsor’s leading attractions in the downtown core is approaching its eighth successful season and expects to top the 100,000 passenger count by the end of 2017. We’re referring to Windsor River Cruises and John Sheridan, their CEO, who is amazed at the annual sales increases of over 30% each year since 2014. However, he remarks: “The fact that so many city and county residents do not even know of our existence continues to baffle me!” So, let’s change that as we give you the rundown now on all Windsor River Cruises can do for you work wise and personally. The company offers a wide variety of river cruises, which in part, would include fully commentated sightseeing cruises, gourmet dinner/dance cruises, breakfast, brunch, party beats with live entertainment, trips to Amherstburg, weddings, special events, just to list a few. According to Sheridan, the increase in bus tours from all over the map is gratifying. Just see this case in point below! White Star Tours from Reading, Pennsylvania is a leading tour operator in the U.S.A. Des Yianoulis is their outstanding Manager and reports that their first cruise on the Windsor boat in 2015 was a big success, as their clients enjoyed the sights and the commentary about, in part, Al Capone’s deep connection to Windsor, Harry Houdini’s final stunt off the Belle Island Bridge, resulting in his demise two weeks later, the Charlie Brooks assassination, and more. Yianoulis followed with three cruises in 2016 and is thrilled with its popularity by booking 18 cruises this year. The busloads of people she brings to our area are all very interested when the cruise sails past a certain area and the story about the curse of Peche Island pops up. Peche Island (often mispronounced “Peach Island”) is an 86 acre island just off the mainland of Windsor. The island is owned by the City Of Windsor who acquired the island from the Province on January 1, 1999, for roughly $1 million. It is uninhabited with the only access being by personal boat. The island was once inhabited by Hiram Walker, who had a 54 room mansion on the island, and later added a golf course, stables, ice house, a carriage house, and

Whether for a private company charter, a sightseeing outing, a date night out, a wedding or another special event, make sure you get out on the water on the Macassa Bay for a memorable experience soon. Photo courtesy of Windsor River Cruises.

a power plant. Canals were dug to bring in supplies and ensure the flow of fresh water. Two large yachts were purchased, the “Pastime” and the “Lurline” for travel from Walker’s office to the island. According to descendants of the French Canadian family LaForet, which once settled the island for almost 100 years, there is a good reason why plans for everything from a swanky residential development to an amusement park never materialized. The island has been cursed! Although the LaForet family had never acquired legal title to the island, they firmly believed they were the rightful owners having traded some livestock to the Indians in exchange for the island back around 1800. Much to Rosalie Laforet’s chagrin, it was not to be. Hiram Walker’s sons acquired legal title to the property as a summer home for their father (Hiram Walker). Walker’s men stormed into the Laforet cabin one night, threw $300 on the table, and ordered the family off the island by the spring 1883. After being forced off the island, Rosalie LaForet went down on her knees and cursed the island with these words: “No one will ever do anything with this island.” Not long after, many of the Walker family fell ill and passed away. The mansion burned to the ground, and the land deteriorated going back to its natural state, with the only visible construction of things past being the ruins of the Walker Estate. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

There are no plans for any future development, so it would appear that the curse has proven to be effective. Moving along to other great reviews, Richard Baron, founder of Baron Insignias in Windsor — the largest Canadian manufacturer of championship rings for professional teams — is an avid fan of the live entertainment “Party Beat” cruises. Since the inception, along with his staff and friends, he has enjoyed shows such as the Elvis Presley Tribute, Johnny Cash, Crystal Gage Country and Western Show, Pink Floyd Tribute, Randy and Sylvie Acoustic Duo, and the Moxie Boys. Belfor Property Restoration, the worldwide leader in disaster recovery and property restoration, is another valued repeat charter customer, returning this season for their fourth charter. Bill Kelly, Belfor Senior Account Manager “praises the professionalism of the Windsor River Cruises management and staff, who have always offered our guests outstanding hospitality, great entertainment, and an excellent buffet.” As well, Biz X magazine will also host its annual “Biz MiXer” cruise on August 8, 2017. (See more details in June at: BizXmagazine.com — all biz pros can attend). So, if you would like to have a staff outing or a personal sightseeing cruise, check out their website: WindsorRiverCruises.com and enjoy an adventure on the local high seas this summer!

Economy Exchange . . . MILESTONES 50 Years Of Pawntastic Deals! Story And Photo By Dave Hall

Mark Bradac, Owner of the Economy Exchange, poses with some of his merchandise in his shop at 857 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor.

F Congratulations to St Clair College on turning 50!

LOCALLY OWNED!

Rachel Charron Commercial Art, 1985

or most of the past 50 years, Mark Bradac has worked at the Economy Exchange, a pawnshop and family business started by his father Milan in 1967 in front of the old Windsor Arena on Wyandotte Street East. “My dad was a Doctor when he came here, but he didn’t have a good command of the English language so he became a Radiologist instead. But, over the years, he accumulated so much stuff that he decided to open a store so he could sell it,” recalls Bradac, who was nine years old at the time. “I could barely see over the counter, but I remember these 90-year-old guys sitting on milk crates and selling stuff,” he laughs. “My dad was old school and believed in child labour so I worked there throughout school with John, my older brother.” He goes on to say with a smile, “I remember one of the first sales I made was a pair of skates to an old Italian guy. He was back within an hour, yelling that he wanted his money back. They were both left feet and from then on, I checked.” Now, the store is located at 857 Wyandotte Street East and it’s full of coins, jewellery, musical instruments, tools, antiques, collectibles, gold, silver and diamonds, all sold by people in need of cash. “It’s a recession-proof business — in bad times, people sell and in good times, they buy,” says Bradac. And it’s shed much of the stigma of past days when many people thought pawnshops were a haven for stolen goods. “We’re heavily scrutinized now because we have to record ID and videotape every transaction, so a pawnshop is the last place to try and unload something shady,” says Bradac. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

“We’re legit and we always have been, which is why I’m likely the poorest pawnbroker in Canada.” Bradac took time off from the business between 1975 and 1981 when he was a guitarist with Teaze, a well-known Canadian band which toured with Aerosmith, Blue Oyster Cult and Meat Loaf, among others. In its heyday, the band achieved four gold records and earned a Juno nomination. He came back off the road in the early ’80s and took over the store fulltime in 1988. Bradac earned some national notoriety between 2011 and 2014 when he was part of Pawnathon Canada, a TV show on the History Channel, which is still in reruns. Unfortunately, it isn’t likely coming back with fresh shows, according to Bradac. There are stories aplenty, of course. “One year, we came into possession of a Tibetan urn, which had once been given to the Canadian Ambassador to Tibet,” says Bradac. “Legend has it that Tibetan urns contain either prayers, stones or the ashes of the Dalai Lama. When we got it, it was empty, but the guy who sold it to us claimed he smoked some stuff that was wrapped in a shroud at the bottom so who knows?” Bradac’s son-in-law Charles Kotsis is largely running the shop today, but he is very thankful to the local community for their past and future business. “It’s been a great run and I’m forever grateful to Windsor and our customers who have supported us over the years,” he expresses. Keep up to date with the latest items on their shelves by liking their Facebook page under “Economy Exchange Pawn Shop.”

EVENT PROFILE

It’s A Jeep Thing! The “4th Annual Jeep Jam Poker Run” June 11, 2017

ocal Jeep enthusiasts are following in their two-wheeled friends footsteps and organizing Windsor’s “4th Annual Jeep Jam Poker Run.” Motorcycle enthusiasts paved the way in raising funds for much needed causes in Windsor by hosting poker runs. Jeeps have been popular for a long time, but this event is only four years young and its popularity keeps growing. The Windsor Jeep Club is looking forward to seeing returning friends, as well as some new faces too! The “Jeep Jam Poker Run” is set to hit the road on Sunday, June 11, 2017. Participants will gather at On the Beach, 354 Croft Drive in Tecumseh, before setting off on a scenic ride throughout Essex County. The run ends back at On the Beach, where participants and their guests are able to enjoy the facilities, which include volleyball, miniature golf, and even a bonfire, as well as great food and beverages.

Brain injury survivors Ernie, Beverley and Wayne (last names withheld) volunteer at the 2016 event.

The funds raised will stay locally in our community and are directed to Assisted Living Southwestern Ontario (A.L.S.O) Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) programs and services. Each year over 160,000 Canadians sustain a brain injury, and these incidences are rising according to the Brain Injury Association of Canada. The Windsor Jeep Club hopes to bring awareness to the cause and remind drivers to be cautious when driving. About 50% of all acquired brain

Sarah Jinkerson in her black Jeep started the convoy at the Jeep Jam last year. Photos courtesy of Shot in the Dark Studio (Shot-In-The-Dark.ca) and Laura Kay.

injuries in Canada come from falls and motor vehicle accidents. “Most brain injury survivors are not able to fundraise or bring awareness to the public due to the type of injury they sustain, and their families are often too busy taking care of their loved ones to organize events,” states Laura Kay, ALSO Projects and Change Manager. “This is why the Windsor Jeep Club organizes the event and hopes to raise much needed funds and to also bring awareness to our community on what ALSO is doing locally for brain injury survivors. ” One of the many programs that ALSO runs in our area is the Chrysalis Day Club, a member-driven Day Club, which centres on meaningful work and the development of meaningful relationships for survivors. Every person has something to contribute and this type of peer mentoring is pivotal to how the club functions. Each person is recognized for their own skills and abilities. To learn more about the Chrysalis Day Club and other ALSO programs log on to: AlsoGroup.org. The “Jeep Jam Poker Run” is sponsored by Motor City Chrysler, Velocity Injury Law, Biz X magazine, CKLW AM800, In Play Magazine and supported by many local businesses. Interested Jeep owners can find more details online at: WindsorJeepClub.com. Early Entry into the Poker Run is $25 per driver and $5 per passenger; however, registration fees are waived with $100 or more in pledges. To join the run and obtain pledge sheets for this event, send an email to: laurakay@alsogroup.org. See you there! B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Getting Down With Down Syndrome

Joe McParland “rocks his socks” for “World Down Syndrome Day” (March 21) with Hazel.

By Joe McParland

or more than three decades, Joey Moss, 53 years old, has been the locker room attendant for the Edmonton Oilers. He is also a close pal of Wayne Gretzky and one of Edmonton’s best known celebrities. Andrew Banar is a 25 year old entrepreneur from Kingsville, Ontario and Owner of the business he started, Group Hug Apparel, which sells tees, hoodies and other cool items (GroupHugApparel.com). He is the recipient of more awards than this space allows me to list. Through his efforts, Banar has raised more than $65,000 for various local charities. Moss and Banar were both born with Down syndrome (DS). They’re two of the most famous Canadian faces of this genetic disorder, among the 45,000 Canadians living with it. According to: KidsHealth.org, DS “is a condition in which a person is born with an extra chromosome . . . chromosomes contain hundreds, or even thousands, of genes . . . with Down syndrome, the extra chromosome causes delays in the way a child develops, mentally and physically.” John Langdon Down is the British Doctor who, in 1866, described this developmental condition as Mongolism. It was in 1959 that the discovery of the extra chromosome was made by French Pediatrician/Geneticist, Professor Jerome Lejeune. Since the 1970s, it has been referred to as Down syndrome. On January 27, 2012, Stephanie and Matt Seguin welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Hazel Loretta into this world. On their website: ChasingHazel.com, Stephanie courageously

without challenges, she is a perfectly healthy girl. And what a blessing both girls will be for each other throughout their lives. Stephanie knows this all too well as she acknowledges, “how important she (Nola) will be for Hazel in the future . . . something my mama heart can’t even begin to comprehend. If I focus on it I get all goose-bumpy and heart-fluttery. It’s TOO much. Entirely, TOO much!” On March 20, 2017 Stephanie and Matt Seguin launched The Chasing Hazel Foundation (ChasingHazelFoundation.org) at Central Park Athletics to support families that have children with Down syndrome. Andrew Banar may have been challenged with many health issues, but he has always been happy and has lived life to its fullest. Photo courtesy of Karen Pickle, Andrew’s mother.

describes the complications she experienced during her pregnancy. Hazel was born with DS and a few other health issues requiring surgery after her arrival. Stephanie recalls the moment she first held Hazel: “Moments later the nurse handed me this little bundle of fiery hot temper, all wrapped up in a pink blanket, with a hat pulled down just so it framed the tiny features on her precious little face. I looked at Matt — we shared a small little smile that spoke words that I will never be able to write — he looked at her and said to me, in the absolute most truthful and genuine way . . . ‘She’s perfect’.” On November 9, 2013, Stephanie and Matt were blessed again with their second beautiful daughter, Nola. Although her arrival wasn’t

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Matt, Hazel, Nola and Stephanie Seguin are pictured on a family outing. Photo courtesy of the Seguins.

Inspired by their own daughter Hazel, they created a foundation which focuses on children and their families through multiple facets such as providing support by offering playgroups specifically developed for children aged 0 to 12, as well as helping with financial assistance (for medically fragile situations). The Seguins hope the foundation will not only help families in the Down syndrome community, “but will also strengthen the Windsor community as whole by bringing together its citizens to promote inclusion.” I want to introduce you next to two other local persons with Down syndrome and their families . . .

Eleanor Devine sits with her youngest daughter, Kathy. Photo by Joe McParland.

Kathy Devine is 52 years old. She is the youngest of seven children born to Alec and Eleanor. Shortly after her father’s passing 17½ years ago, Kathy began living on her own in an apartment on Riverside Drive, not far from her mother’s home. Her amazing mother, Eleanor, is 98 years young and proudly says, “the reason for my longevity, is Kathy. She has been my life purpose and keeps me much younger than my years indicate.” Assisted by her mother and siblings, Kathy grocery shops, cooks her own meals, does her laundry and attends Sunday mass where she is an altar server. She takes public transit and worked for 10 years at the old Windsor Jail, cleaning administrative offices. She has also worked for two local florists, Burger King and St. Vincent de Paul Society. A veteran of the Special Olympics with plenty of awards to display, she swims twice a week, participates in Zumba classes and continues to improve her computer skills — which she developed at St. Clair College. Kathy is an amazingly gifted young lady who melts the hearts of everyone she meets. Finally, 34 year old Josh Guryn and his mother, Christine Knuckle and stepfather Phil Knuckle, reside in the city’s east end. Josh’s Down syndrome is complicated by the Autism he also has. His older brother, Jeff and sister Nancy Guryn dote over him, and have assured their

Christine Knuckle with her son, Josh Guryn and the family dog. Photo by Joe McParland.

mother that when she’s no longer able to care for Josh, he has a home with them. Like Eleanor Devine, Christine says “Josh is the love of my life; he gives so much love and meaning to me every single moment.” Josh is provided 50 hours of assistance weekly by two case workers. He exercises at the gym, bowls, and assists his mom with the laundry and groceries. He loves his movies, but not nearly as much as he loves his dogs, Cody and Sasha.

BEST GIFT EVER.

5158 Tecumseh Rd. E. 519-974-7777 www.massagewindsor.com

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“The 5th Annual Bridal Ball 2017”

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT S April 1, 2017 at the Ambassador Golf Course, 1025 Sprucewood Avenue, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Over 100 guests were decked out in bridal and evening gowns, dresses and suits (of course!) for the men. The “Bridal Ball” is a social night of silent/live auction, dinner and dancing with all proceeds being donated to a local charity, this year’s being the WindsorEssex County ALS Society. Committee members included: Susan Hanson, Director of Administration for T.J. Enterprises (Tim Hortons); Sarah Taylor (founder of the event) from It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique and Diane Farquhar, Service Manager of Ambassador Golf Club. Find out more about future events on their website: BridalBallWindsor.com. 2. From Ambassador Golf Club, Executive Chef Daniele Palanca, Daniel Upham III, Nicholas Tosti, Jorge Madrid, Sous Chef David Aziz, Samr Shamoon and Sous Chef Alex Merryfield, started off the evening with these colourful offerings of antipasto platters.

3. One of the main sponsors was the group from Dakkota Integrated Systems, LLC., 490 Richard Ruston Drive, Tecumseh. In the traditional reception line photo — representing the Dakkota family, were: Shawn & Kristen Byrne, Nancy K, Linda Fick, Tracie Berekoff, Darrell Foschia, Maryann & Ken McRae, Susan & Carlo DeDomenicis, Diane Schertzer & Rick Schertzer. 4. The theme of the ball, “A Night in Paris,” was brought to life by Diane SpenclerGlover of Designs by Diane and included Eiffel Tower replications, flowers and vintage props. Diane works too hard all of the time so it was nice to see her take a night off to enjoy a little Paris night life with her husband, Jay Glover. 5. Une envie doit être prise au sérieux (a desire to be taken seriously) is certainly

5 BBIZIZ XX MMAAGGAAZZININEE •• MMAAYY 22001177

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

SHOTS

6 something Saskia Scott, Owner of Sweet Revenge Bake Shop, considers very important when it comes to the sweet treats she creates. Scott is photographed with her friend Celesta Gaba, Human Resources Coordinator for Windsor Family Credit Union. 6. Janet and Alan Arseneault were the featured wedding photographers for

the ball. The couple own Chalet Studio Photography, which is celebrating its 30th year of making memories to last a lifetime. Congrats from all of us at Biz X! 7. No wedding or bridal celebration can be complete without great music, which was provided by Corbett Productions. Disc Jockeys Josh Lesperance, Production

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Manager and newcomer Adrian Wells knew the right tunes to play to get those guests out of their seats and on the dance floor. 8. Just as you find many street artists in Montmartre, in keeping with the Parisian theme of the “Bridal Ball”, local artist George Rizok donated his services so guests could receive caricature drawings as a keepsake.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN By Rebecca Wright

ANITA LESCHIED

Hitting The Right Notes For Healing Harp Therapy

ollow your heart — such simple yet sound advice from local entrepreneur Anita Leschied. And her heart led her straight to the harp! Leschied has been a professional harpist in the community since 1976 when she joined the Windsor Symphony Orchestra and went into business under her own name. Since then, she’s become a harp therapy practitioner, harp teacher and vibroacoustic harp therapy practitioner. She now teaches harp to adult and youth students at her studio in Woodslee under the handle, Harp On (HarpOn.net), as well as once a week at Julia’s Art Studio in Walkerville in Windsor. Since moving to Woodslee in 2001, she has performed at many community events, Remembrance Day services, weddings (using a pedal harp) and more. She has also offered bedside vigils at Hospices (using a Celtic or lever harp) and hospitals, and she is known at long-term care facilities (using a lap harp) as simply “the harp lady.” When Leschied’s husband’s parents utilized Hospice services in the 1990s, she took her harp to their bedsides and shared their favourite music on harp at their memorial services. “I also had the chance to play for my own father at our family farmhouse in Midland, Michigan, a week before he died,” explains Leschied. “He sat up and watched me play for two hours.” It was after these experiences with family that Leschied realized something — while she had studied harp as an instrument, she knew she needed to study harp as a healing instrument and start utilizing it for that purpose. “After playing for my father and my husband’s parents, I knew there was something special about the instrument I had chosen and I followed other harpists to train in the International Harp Therapy Program out of the San Diego area,” recalls Leschied. “The founder, Tina Tourin, confirmed many of the things which I was already doing, but also

Harpist Anita Leschied is photographed performing at a wedding at Willistead Manor. Photo courtesy of Emma Davidson / KaritasPhotography.com.

guided me in how to play without music, to improvise, to alter the music to the patients’ mood, breathing rhythm, their resonant tone, to bring harmony to the room and being aware of the key or tone of machines or sounds within the room.” She expresses that her healing harp techniques are about being aware of her own thoughts so as not to judge, but be ready to meet whatever greets her within that session. Leschied also claims that no other local harpist has certification as a Harp Therapy Practitioner, so she brings a unique use of the harp to the community. “I offer my harp services for weddings, celebrations of life and memorial services,” says Leschied. “One of the most emotional was for the victims of the 401 crash at Manning Road on a very foggy morning.” She would love to leave a legacy of harp for all life occasions, to this community, and part of that means teaching others

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or inspiring others to take up their harps and play for their own joy and for those of others. “Each opportunity to play for another or for a group is a unique experience and anything may happen — joy may break forth, dancing may begin, singing may join the harp, and transition to life beyond has happened as I played,” Leschied describes. She is also part of a flute/harp duo called Jubal’s Daughters with musical partner, Averil Spence-Clarke. The two have performed together since 1988 when Leschied stepped down from the WSO and they have recorded two CDs together. “It is a joy to share our music together as we have given several concerts and she was featured when my harp ensemble, ‘From the Harps’ performed at the Capitol Theatre and at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, raising money for Hiatus House, Save the Children and other local charities,” notes Leschied. Coordinating children, grandchildren, chickens and 12 horses, along with her workload, has sometimes been a tough juggling act, but it’s all been worth it, she says. “It is always a balance to fit in tuning harps, stringing them, practicing, ordering music for students, booking weddings and juggling schedules so that I can play a vigil by the bedside at the last minute request,” Leschied comments. “I am not the best at time management, but practicing lots as a young person and being fairly skilled at sight-reading music and learning new music has helped me stay able to perform at my highest level.” As for her advice to other local entrepreneurs, she believes they should have the courage to use and utilize their talents, because if you don’t, the world is a poorer place. “So many of our dreams go with us into the hereafter, but I have never stopped playing and told my husband I don’t believe I will ever retire,” says Leschied. “As long as I can play, I will keep offering that gift and hopefully teaching that to others.”

XX FILES

AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

The Second Edition Of The “Best Of Windsor Essex” Awards

Photos by Rod Denis

ourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) announced the winners of the second edition of the “Best Of Windsor Essex” at a special Awards Ceremony on March 29, 2017 at the Chimczuk Museum. Drawing on the success of last year’s inaugural campaign, this year’s “Best Of Windsor Essex” contest drew an even more enthusiastic response from local residents and visitors eager to share their “Best Of” things to see and do in the region, in a campaign that ran January and February 2017.

Art Gallery of Windsor

F&B Walkerville

Sandbar Waterfront Grill

Art Gallery or Art Space

Craft Cocktail

Perch

Windsor Sculpture Park

Wolfhead Distillery

Armando’s Restaurant

Community Art Piece

Windsor-Essex Distillery Experience

Pizza Pie

Walkerville BIA

Pelee Island Winery

The Carvery

Cultural or Historical District

Winery Experience

Sandwich Shop

Canadian Club Brand Heritage Centre

Freeds of Windsor

Sweet Revenge Bake Shop

Clothing Store

Sweet Treat

Colosseum at Caesars Windsor

Kingsville Golf & Country Club

Entertainment Venue - Over 1,000 seats

Golf Course

Museum or Heritage Space

Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens Family Friendly Attraction

Caesars Windsor

Capitol Theatre

Urban Surf Co.

Live Music Space - Under 1,000 seats

On The Water Activity

Urban Art Market

Ojibway Nature Centre

YQG Made Store

Park or Garden

Devonshire Mall

Point Pelee National Park

Mall

Picnic Spot

Local Attraction - Gaming

Fort Malden National Historic Site Local Attraction - Historical

WFCU Centre Local Attraction - Sports

Art in the Park Local Festival - Arts & Music

Harrow Fair Local Festival - Family & Fairs

Carrousel of the Nations Local Festival - Food & Drink

Walkerville Brewery Brewery Experience

Anchor Coffee House Coffee House

Jack’s Gastropub Local Watering Hole

Twisted Apron

Ganatchio Trail

Breakfast

Two Wheeled Adventure

Mamo Burger Bar

Point Pelee National Park

Burger Joint

Walking, Hiking or Running Trail

Jack’s Gastropub

Iron Kettle Bed & Breakfast

Chef Inspired Dining

Bed & Breakfast

Rock Bottom Bar & Grill

Caesars Windsor

Chicken Wings

Hotel

Mazaar Lebanese Cuisine

Sturgeon Woods Campground & Marina

Global Eats

Cottage/Campground

Spago Ristorante E Pizzeria Pasta House

Willistead Manor Photo Op

Viewpointe Estate Winery Patio View

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

In Phase I, over 785 unique Windsor Essex locations were nominated for the 43 Awards. Those nominations were then pared down into the top five in each category. Phase II then began with over 7,000 people voting again, on the top five in each category, for their favourite spots in Windsor Essex — where they like to eat, shop, dine and play. “This year’s campaign drew an even higher engagement rate than last year from both businesses and their fans alike,” says Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island. “Locals are justifiably proud of our area and we anticipate that this list will inspire locals and visitors alike to explore our region’s iconic experiences, hidden gems and everything in between.” In addition to commemorative plaques, a letter of congratulations and bragging rights, winners will also be mentioned in TWEPI’s 2017/18 Official Visitor Guide and TWEPI’s micro-site: BestOfWindsorEssex.ca. This specifically designed site features a mini-profile and photo of each winner and a mention of the top five finalists per category. A complete list of all winners and a group shot can be seen in this section. Biz X extends its congratulations to all winners and finalists! As well, a few of the winners are pictured individually on the next two pages along with the TWEPI representatives involved in the plaque presentations.

“Best of Windsor Essex" Awards Spotlight continues . . .

Gordon Orr, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (left) and TWEPI Board of Directors/City of Windsor Councillor Rino Bortolin, Ward 3 present Catharine M. Mastin, Director of the Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW) with the “Best Art Gallery or Art Space” Award. Located on Windsor’s beautiful riverfront downtown, the AGW is the largest public art gallery in the Windsor-Detroit corridor and is nationally recognized for its diverse collection and changing exhibition program, featuring contemporary and historical art from Canada and around the world.

Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens is definitely fun for the whole family. Open 363 days a year, it’s 3.5 acres of family fun in Kingsville with exotic and tropical plants, inflatables, kiddie rides, a zoo and petting farm, arcade room, mini golf and more! Ashley Colasanti (Promotions) and her father (Manager) Terry Colasanti (second from right) accept the honour of “Best Family Friendly Attraction” from Orr and Bain.

Orr and Tom Bain (right), TWEPI Board of Directors, Essex County Warden and Lakeshore Mayor, present Kathleen Thomas, Executive Director of the Multicultural Council of Windsor with the “Best Local Festival — Food and Drink” Award to “Carrousel of The Nations.” This year’s event takes place June 16 to 25 at various locations around the city when ethno-cultural groups open their cultural centres in celebration of their origins. Delight in the tastes, sounds and traditions of an array of cultures only during “Carrousel of The Nations.”

Every Labour Day weekend we celebrate our agricultural roots in Essex County at the “Harrow Fair” with its displays of culinary arts, needle arts, grains/seeds, roots/vegetables, flowers, photography, contests, parade, plenty of livestock animals and more! The Colchester South and Harrow Agricultural Society organizes the fair, with their 163rd event scheduled for August 31 to September 3, 2017. Accompanying photo shows Penny Anger (Secretary, left) and Brenda Anger (President) accepting their plaque for the “Best Local Festival Family & Fairs” Award from Orr and Bain.

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The Sandbar Waterfront Grill and its accompanying Puce River Marina are enjoyed by boaters and guests alike. It is now celebrating its 25 year anniversary, in 2017. Orr and Adriano Ciotoli (right), TWEPI Board of Directors and Owner of Windsor Eats, present Wendy Macintyre, Director of Operations for the Troup Group Inc. (Owner of the Sandbar) with the “Best Perch” Award.

Jack’s Gastropub is a family owned/operated business since 1989, on 31 Division Street South in Kingsville. Orr and Nelson Santos (right), TWEPI Chair of Board of Directors and Mayor of Kingsville, bestow the “Best Local Watering Hole” Award to Troy Loop, Co-Owner in the JACKS Group which owns the pub and several other businesses. Jack’s Gastropub also earned the “Best Chef Inspired Dining” Award. The Urban Art Market, 548 Chilver Road, Windsor is made up of 31 local artists and artisans from the Windsor area. Artists work in the store to keep operations open so the public can shop for a variety of unique products. Orr and Danielle Stuebing (far right), TWEPI Board of Directors/Director of Community Outreach Services Essex Region Conservation Authority give the award for “Best YQG Made Store” to Urban Art Market Owner Anissa Noakes (second from right) and Kathryn Pasquach, one of the artists in the store and Owner of Culture Shock Jewellery.

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

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GENERATION YKNOT

Success(ION) In The YQG, There Will Be Blood! By Jason Towsley A young man approaches a hockey player walking down Yonge Street and asks — “Excuse me sir, how do I get to Maple Leaf Gardens?” The player looks down at the young man and responds: “Blood, sweat, tears and practice.” I graduated from university eight years ago after playing hockey for four years in Pittsburgh for the Robert Morris Colonials on an NCAA scholarship. After clocking tens of thousands of miles up and down the ice, it was time not only to change direction in my career, but change the venue as well. The question I faced was: do I move to YQG or the GTA? Graduating into a full-blown recession didn’t help my prospects. However, a pull-out couch and free room and board at my sister’s 600 square foot apartment, was enough incentive to choose Toronto. The big city helped me get the experience and exposure I needed. I quickly connected with a company which provided national recognition in sales and — most importantly —

the opportunity to work with dynamic CEOs, surgeons, doctors, lawyers and other executives and professionals. The people I worked with had one thing in common: they all sacrificed their blood, sweat and tears towards their goals. In addition to working with great people, I was responsible for looking after five initiatives and companies, which provided me a feeling of ownership over some amazing projects. Hockey taught me how to change direction quickly and hence I was ready to move back to Windsor with my experience in tow when I was offered to opportunity to start taking over my father’s construction company, Towsley Construction Co. Inc., in January 2016. I came back to a city of Windsor that had changed from the one I left in 2004. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but there was a different vibe. Things were moving in the right direction. Towsley Construction has been building in Windsor Essex for close to 35 years now, helping with the residential, commercial and industrial construction needs of various clients — as well as

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complete design-to-build. What once was my best attribute about my work ethic — having a tenacity about something as if it was my own — has now become my everyday reality and my calling card. I see a lot of commonalities between my time as a hockey player, as a millennial starting out early in his career in Toronto and now my time taking over a major construction company in Windsor, which has helped me offer the following advice . . . • No one said it was going to be easy. Turn your complaints into actions or motivations. • Plans will never be perfect. Be willing to be agile and adapt to new surroundings. • Listen to those with more experience. Build your own board of advisors. • Document processes to measure and better understand your goals. If you measure it, you treasure it. • Have a succession plan. A plan helps build the bench strength of a business to ensure the longterm health, growth and stability. • Always skate hard no matter what you do. Never lose sight of what you’re working towards. • And finally — practice. Jason Towsley is a 30 year old entrepreneur, born and raised in Windsor, ON. He graduated from Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, PA, USA while on a NCAA Div. I hockey scholarship. He is currently Vice President at Towsley Construction, a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters and he sits on two Academic Advisory boards for St. Clair College. He is also a member for YKNOT Windsor-Essex. (Facebook.com/yknotwe).

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

It’s Time To Let A Pro Handle Your Junk By Dave Halliday

t’s that time of year when you transition from one season to the next. You need your summer stuff out for easy access, so you head to the garage. As you wade your way through all of the old Christmas decorations that you meant to get rid of and the stack of new decorations that you haven’t put away yet, you stumble over the broken garden tools from last season! The broken rake pops up and hits you in the knee as you stagger backwards over the leftover drywall from your basement renovation. You land on your butt and look up to notice the multitude of items stuffed into the rafters of the garage. The overhead supports look as though they are about to give way — and when did you purchase a set of duck decoys? You don’t even hunt! It’s time to get rid of all of this junk! It sounds easy, but the truth is, getting rid of all of these unwanted items can be an immense chore. It’s bad enough that you have to deal with the family’s sentimental attachments to inanimate objects, but the logistics of sorting, removing, and disposing of it all can be over whelming. Fortunately for our readers, we discuss the options available when it comes to All Things Junk! (5299 Hwy #3, Tecumseh) Bob Lynch is a partner in All Things Junk with Darren Dixon and Mark Mailloux and was kind enough to share some of his thoughts and experience on the matter. (Check their site: AllThingsJunk.ca to see a list of all they remove). What types of services do you offer at All Things Junk? “All Things Junk is a residential and commercial non-hazardous waste, junk removal company,” indicates Lynch. “We provide full service junk removal and, whatever the situation, we at All Things Junk can get the debris removed in a dependable, professional and timely manner.”

When you say “full service” junk removal what do you mean? “We provide removal and cleanup service for all sorts of situations, estate cleanouts, basement, garages, attics, yards, home buying and selling, hoarding cleanouts, and disaster restorations removal,” he explains. “We also do demolitions such as basements, baths, kitchen, and interior walls.” Do you provide services for exterior demolitions and disposal? “Yes, such as decks, hot tub removal, fence, shed and garage demos and as always the disposal of the debris is included,” Lynch lists. Do you provide options for the individual who wishes to do their own heavy work? “We offer trailer bin rental for up to three days for the do-it-yourself customer,” notes Lynch. “We will deliver the trailer, which is a rear barn door style trailer for easy loading, and return in three days or when the trailer is full, remove it and dispose of the debris at an approved waste manage facility.” Are any of the materials recovered recycled or reused? “We strive to recycle, reuse, repurpose or donate as much debris as we possibly can,” he comments. “Some items which are disposed of by our customers can definitely be recycled or

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donated. It serves a couple of functions — it helps to keep our cost for disposal down, keeps items out of the landfill and can benefit local charities and families.” What services and information should one expect from their disposal professional before, during, and after their project? “Proper liability and commercial insurance is essential and customers should expect an up-front cost estimate with an explanation of how the removal will be completed,” responds Lynch. “Customers should also expect that their service provider during the removal will treat their home or business with respect, ensuring no damage to any items or property. Once the removal has been completed, the customer should expect to be asked if they are happy with the service and if there is anything else which needs to be done.” Are there any types of materials that cannot be disposed of within one of your bins? “There are restrictions with regards to hazardous waste, such household chemicals, cans of paint, motor oil propane tanks, etc.,” he replies. “Customers are advised to properly dispose of items of this sort at the City of Windsor or County of Essex Transfer stations, which accept those particular items free of charge.” During the three days you had the bin you were able to de-clutter all of the real problem areas of the house. The basement storage was a challenge, but you got it cleared up. The attic space had you finding and disposing of the last owner’s junk! The shed can now store all of your garden tools, but the garage is probably the most improved area of all. Yesterday, for the first time in a very long time, you were actually able to put your car in the garage!

THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

Thai Time

FOR THOUGHT

3395 Howard Avenue, Units 5 & 6, Windsor Story and Photo By David Clark

t all started in 2007 when a unique purveyor of fine Thai food graced the Windsor area, offering authentic fare at reasonable prices. Known as Thai Palace, the restaurant has gained attention over the years in the local dining scene, earning a Biz X Award as the 2008 “Thai Cuisine Experts.” Now, the latest incarnation of Thai fare to hit the area is Thai Time — authentic Thai cuisine — located near Devonshire Mall in the Kenilworth Plaza. The new restaurant is a by-product of the Thai Palace recipe for success with the same great food and atmosphere, just in an additional location. With three at the helm, the owners of Thai Palace opened Thai Time in February of 2017. Partners in marriage and business, Owner/ Operators, Charles and Renu (a.k.a. Ray) Anderson invited a new partner into the mix, Supornpat Kittichit (a.k.a. Mink) who is now the Co-owner and Manager of Thai Time. On the road to better things, according to Renu, “The Biz X Award we received will likely help other small businesses forge ahead like we did by opening the door to new business.” With many options to investigate, Thai Time does spicy from one to 10, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. You have a variety of healthy choices to explore ranging from salads, rolls, seafood and stir-fries. Look for the fresh spring rolls with rice, paper-wrapped with vegetable. With these exotic tastes coming from the kitchen, healthy never tasted so good! Some of the notable menu items to try, include a house noodle dish known as Pad Thai. It is stir-fried rice, noodle, egg and bean sprouts with homemade tamarind sauce. “The Pad Thai is Thailand’s most popular dish,” mentions Kittichit. The dish comes garnished with shredded carrot, green onion, crushed peanut and lime.

Charles Anderson and his wife Renu (seated at left) are pictured with Supornpat Kittichit (Mink) inside Thai Time. Renu tempts us with a dish of Pad Thai and Mink holds a plate of fresh Spring Rolls.

Check out the Tuesday Pad Thai special with chicken or tofu at $10.95! When it’s time to mix it up a little, it’s fun to create your own dishes. As Kittichit explains, “Our customers can select their favourite protein including tofu, chicken, beef, shrimp and mixed seafood.” The Red Curry and Pineapple Fried Rice dishes are two of the most popular main meal selections to go with your protein. Along with the great food, Renu created Ray’s Original recipe sauces to complement your favourite meals at home and also extended the supply to restaurants. Available at both locations, some of the exotic sauces include Peanut, Pad Thai, Red Curry and Sweet & Sour. Thai Time can also cater special events serving 40, but with outbound catering there is no limit to how many they can serve. They offer a variety of Thai dishes, served with rice or noodles, appetizers and of course

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the staple dish, Pad Thai. Custom menus are also available. Thai Time is happy to deliver a healthy offering of Thai food with a wide variety of options and preferences to work with. “With our sister restaurant, Thai Palace, we gained knowledge and experience on how to properly run a small family restaurant successfully,” says Kittichit. “We now know how to achieve a high standard regarding our food and service.” Renu and Charles would like to extend a thank you to all the loyal Thai Palace customers for 10 great years and offer an invitation to past and future diners to come and visit them at the Thai Time location. You can find this new restaurant on the World Wide Web at: ThaiTime.ca — check out their hours and menus. Plus, on social media, including Facebook and Instagram, you can explore all their latest news.

“The 31st Annual Great Soup Kitchen” For The Heart And Stroke Foundation

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT March 30, 2017 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

To see even more photos from this event visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there!” 1. Over $11,000 was raised and 625 people came out to enjoy soups from 40 area restaurants at this annual fundraiser. The people who made this all possible were Brenda Clayton, (who started this charity event over 30 years ago) and the current committee members Goran Todorovic, RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. and Holly Kirk McLean, Area Manager, Heart and Stroke Foundation. The dollars raised here are very important as nine out of 10 Canadians have been affected by heart disease or stroke. All of the money raised here goes to the Heart and Stroke Foundation to help fund lifesaving research and create more survivors. 2. The always dapper Jim Crichton, CTV Senior News Anchor, ladled out a puree potato leek soup on behalf of Vito’s Pizzeria and O’Maggio’s Kildare House.

3. Soup’s on as Sara Palmer, Owner of Beacon Ale House in Amherstburg dished out her traditional tomato soup. 4. No soup for you! Nah, just joking! Celebrity server Tracey Ramsey, MP Essex, served up a navy bean and ham soup from The Twisted Apron to all who asked. 5. Helping with the ticket sales were: Krista Del Gatto, Executive Officer, Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS (WECAR); Kim Gazo, WECAR President and Sales Representative with Deerbrook Realty Inc.; Jeewen Gill, WECAR Director, Broker of Record for National Realty Exchange Corp. and President Windsor/ Tecumseh Federal Liberal Riding; and Laura McAllister, long time volunteer Heart and Stroke Foundation. WECAR was a corporate sponsor of the event.

6. Finally, we raise a cup to a “souper” sponsor, Team Goran from RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd.: Tara Rabie, Tracy Johnson, Enza Stabile, Jennifer Bartnik, Goran Todorovic, Justin Murer and Tanya Adamovic.

6 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

from the bookshelf

Empowering Women With Cancer And Honouring Where We Live By Marlene Markham-Gay

BUSINESS IS TOUGH

Working with a PRINTER shouldn’t be. Annex Printing specializes in magazines, catalogues, newsletters and reports. Our one-stop print shop offers a complete menu of printing and fulfillment services.

Let us help you make BUSINESS easier. Frances Edmonds or Laurie Bouck Sales/Customer Service

salesprint@annexweb.com

acqueline Apostol-Pizzuti is a local author who has written a very beneficial and inspirational book meant for women who are undergoing cancer treatments. “Healing Pretty Witty & Wise”: Empowering You Throughout Cancer Treatment, is a jewel of a publication if you are making this journey or it’s an appropriate gift for a relative or friend that has cancer. Apostol-Pizzuti has helped over 1,000 women heal from cancer with dignity. She is a licensed hair stylist with over 25 years of experience and is the Owner of Wigs To Wellness (WigsToWellness.com) plus The Mastectomy Boutique and also a licenced wig specialist and certified mastectomy fitter. Chapters in Apostol-Pizzuti’s book include: preparing for hair loss; fashions; how healing kits can make recovery comfortable; what you need to know about lymphedema and more. There are stories from cancer survivors who share their experiences in hope they can help someone else. Hints on makeup and wigs and artistic tattoo is discussed as well as mastectomy wear. “Healing Pretty Witty & Wise” is like having a friend to turn to for advice, motivation and courage. Every page offers the reader relief from anxiety and stress and helpful suggestions with over 300 tips and resources for coping with side effects. The book is available at Wigs To Wellness and The Mastectomy Boutique, 3378 Maisonneuve Avenue, Windsor. You may also order it online here: HealingPrettyBook.com. Next up we have a work of fiction based on historical facts by local author Jane Buttery. Buttery is well known for her children’s books, presentations on writing memoirs and has written several biographies for people. She enjoys visiting schools to talk about creative writing and her own local books. Her keen interest in her community has led her to write books B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

about the area. A retired teacher, Buttery believes children can relate to places they know such as Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary and historical Amherstburg. Most people do not know that Chief Tecumseh had a sister, Tecumapese (Star Watcher) who was considered very wise. She may also have known a young captive, Catherine Malott who lived with the Shawnee for four years before being rescued in 1780. Written for adults, Buttery’s “Two At The Crossroads” uses well known facts to develop a fascinating story around these two women. Catherine married Simon Girty an interpreter at Fort Malden who became a famous frontiersman, serving both the British and the Americans, at different times. The story is written when American settlers were on the move and during the war of 1812-1814. This novel is a story of love, courage and hardship, describing life of that era. Buttery uses the term “Crossroads” in the book title as it refers to American and Canadian history. Two women, two different lives, one the sister of a Shawnee war chief and one an early settler from Kentucky become confidents and friends. Buttery spent two years researching before writing this story and Marilyn Mclean designed the cover and the full colour illustration at the front of the book. “Two At The Crossroads” is available at Hometown Pharmacy, 32 Queen Street, Harrow and online at: Amazon.ca for kindle and in soft cover. Read more about this author by logging on to her website: JaneButtery.com. Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at the Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books. Marlene is an avid reader and encourages her eight grandchildren to read. So many books and too little time prevent her from reading the same book twice.

THE WAY IT WAS

All Present And Correct By Andrea Grimes

n recognition of how aviation greatly served the war effort, Canada’s reorganization of its air command took flight with the inception of the Royal Canadian Air Force on April 1, 1924. By 1936, the RCAF was recognized the world over as Canada’s military air force, thereby turning another page in the chapter of Canada’s distinguished military history. Windsor played a pivotal role in the war effort with the establishment of the No.7 Elementary Flight Training School. Pilots trained here from 1939 until October 24, 1944. To honour our 1,400 Veterans, who had the privilege to serve with the RAF/RCAF during WWII, the Essex Memorial Spitfire Committee erected a monument in honour of Veterans of our Air Force — pilots, gunners, ground crews, photographers, nurses and support/ clerical staff who stood to defend those principles of democracy, freedom and liberation . . . all present and correct. Suzanne Allison, former Chair of the Essex Memorial Spitfire Committee, informs us that for information on how to purchase a Memorial Stone for a WindsorEssex County WWII RAF/RCAF Veteran, visit the “Essex Memorial Spitfire” page on Facebook. According to Jack Monaghan, President of Hallmark Memorial Co. (HallmarkMemorialCo.ca), “We welcome individuals to purchase name space plaques in honour of families that served with the RAF/RCAF during WWII. We are proud to carry on this tradition of remembrance

WWII RCAF Pilot, Syd Hutnick riding a captured V1 Buzz Bomb in Biggin Hill, England. On left is Windsor’s WWII RCAF Pilot, Jerry Billings. Photo c 1944-45, courtesy of Peg Johnson, Hutnick’s daughter.

to ensure that this generation, and those to follow, will never forget the legacy of duty, service and sacrifice.” Peg Johnson (nee Hutnick) fondly recalls those exciting years of family life . . . in the hangar. “My maternal grandparents owned a home across from the airport where the runway is now. That’s how mum and dad met. The airport was an intricate part of our lives. My father was Sydney Hutnick, born March 19, 1914 in Windsor. In 1928 he began cleaning aircraft and, in lieu of wages, he took flying lessons. By 1935 dad had his private and commercial pilot licenses and Air Engineers certificates. He had graduated from Technical College and took aircraft design courses. In 1937, dad enlisted with The Essex Regiment (Tank), but had to resign to accept the position of Chief Engineer for The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Dad tried to enlist

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in the RCAF, but was turned down for the same reason. Dad became Chief Air Engineer in the No.7 EFTS in Windsor.” Hutnick was finally accepted into the RCAF in 1943, serving overseas as a Lancaster pilot attached to 105 Pathfinder Squadron and 419 Moose Squadron. It was while Hutnick was in England that he renewed his friendship with Jerry Billings. Johnson adds: “Returning from the war, dad and Billings continued their friendship at the hangar in Windsor. Dad landed a job in 1947 as Air Engineer and then as a pilot of MkV Norseman CF-OBH with the Ontario Provincial Air Service in Sault Ste. Marie. During this time, dad invented an all-snow-condition ski and the aerial estimator used to judge the size of forest fires from the air.” Hutnick died in an airplane crash on August 30, 1950. Johnson adds, “(But,) as fate would have it, dad was recalled into the RCAF on September 2, 1950. He was specifically chosen for service in the Korean War (Intelligence Department) because he spoke and wrote perfect Russian. I am still trying to get dad’s 1939-45 medal, which was promised to him at the time.” “Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, And danced the skies on laughtersilvered wings ….” ~ “High Flight” A poem dedicated to aviation, written by 19 year old RCAF Pilot, John Gillespie Magee, Jr. in 1941.

OF THE MONTH By Dave Hall

Hyatt Lassaline LLP . . . Key Figures For 20 Years & Counting

hen Don Lassaline invited longsectors as manufacturing, not-for-profits, time colleague Harold Hyatt to recreation, hospitality, construction, join him in setting up a new accounting industry, agriculture, agri-business and practice in Windsor, he had little idea how professional services. large Hyatt Lassaline LLP would become It has a growing cross-border practice, over the next two decades. which provides advice on U.S. real estate From its small beginnings with three transactions, U.S. estate planning and employees and two partners in 1997, income tax preparation. They also advise the firm, which is about to celebrate its snowbirds on the tax implications of living 20th anniversary this fall, now has 22 part-time in the U.S. and advise Canadian employees plus five co-op students. (Refer and U.S. companies about doing business to: HyattLassaline.com for more details) on either side of the border. “Harold and I had worked together for As Lassaline points out “Tax rules change 18 years at another firm and when that with every budget and our employees have firm started to break apart and people were to stay on top of those changes so we can going their separate ways, I approached react immediately to the needs of our Harold and asked if he was interested in clients.” a new partnership,” recalls Lassaline, the Both Ostrow and Kelly remark that new firm’s Managing Partner. “I knew From Hyatt Lassaline LLP (starting at the left): Sandy Anderson, Tax research tools, such as the Internet, have I didn’t want to be a one-man show and Partner; Jeff Ostrow, Assurance Partner; Sherry Kelly, Principal and Don made answers to tax questions more readily Lassaline, Managing Partner are a dedicated team of professionals in the that I wanted a partnership.” available, but that also makes the level of world of Chartered Accountants. Photo by Rod Denis. Sherry Kelly, the firm’s Principal, came questions from clients more sophisticated. on board when the firm opened and Assurance just for growth’s sake,” states Ostrow. “If we do “They can find the basic information,” says Partner Jeff Ostrow soon returned to the a good job for our clients, growth will follow Ostrow. “So they either want that information firm where he had been a co-op student from because they will refer more work to us.” or their interpretation of it validated. Basic 1990 to 1994. The firm has always had a philosophy of information is everywhere, but you need to Ostrow describes that he “left on good terms, taking on both high school and university know whether or not it fits your specific issue.” because I had an opportunity to join a national co-op students to get them “used to working in In addition to recognizing and anticipating firm, but I always kept an open mind about an office environment where soft skills are as the needs of their clients, Hyatt Lassaline has a returning if the opportunity presented itself.” important as academic skills,” explains Kelly. philosophy of treating its employee as internal Sandy Anderson, who joined Hyatt Lassaline says the philosophy has paid clients. Lassaline in 2012, is the firm’s third partner and dividends and “it’s been very rewarding to see Kelly adds, “We offer incentives for employees specializes in tax issues. these young students and employees take on who go the extra mile for our clients and that’s Hyatt Lassaline was one of the first tenants at more responsibility and grow within the firm. been very successful.” 2510 Ouellette Avenue (Suite 203) and took up Growth will make you better as a person and it The firm is also proud of its mentoring just a small space on the building’s second floor. will make us better as a firm. programs. Every Hyatt Lassaline’s employee “I remember standing outside the building in “We’ve been able to attract very talented who studied for and sought their Chartered the early days wondering whether people would people largely because we offer a vast array of Professional Accountants designation, has been come,” says Kelly. services, so that many of our employees are able successful. But, with Hyatt, who passed away about 15 to specialize in their favourite area of tax and It all adds up to a bright future for many years years ago, and Lassaline both bringing a solid accounting practices,” Lassaline notes. to come. The entire team at Biz X magazine reputation and clients with them from their old Hyatt Lassaline, which also has an (also celebrating 20 years of publishing in firm, Kelly needn’t have worried. office in Essex at 14 Victoria Avenue, 2017) congratulates all partners, Chartered “We’ve always been interested in growth for provides tax and accounting services to Accountants and the office personnel at Hyatt both our clients and our employees, but not individuals and companies involved in such Lassaline on their 20 years in business!

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y 2 0 1 7

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E â&#x20AC;¢ M A Y 2 0 1 7