Biz X magazine May june 2020

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION Time For Canadians To Embrace Farm Work Expert Accounting Advice On Questions To Ask About The Longer-Term Strategy Of Your Business THE PARENTING BIZ No School, No Problem!

Mental, Physical, Dental Tips & More!

Follow The Leader: One-On-One With MP Irek Kusmierczyk

Plus Editorial On: DeMarco’s Fine Foods; Made To Shade Window Coverings Ltd.; The Bloomin’ Gardener; Swinging Soaps; Quilts Of Valour — Canada Society May/June 2020

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Welcome Back!

Companies across the region were hard-hit when the COVID-19 outbreak forced many to shut their doors. A few months later, the economy is slowly re-opening with restrictions in place. Despite the devastating effect on businesses, hardy and inventive entrepreneurs, such as Reid Williams of Williams Food Equipment, still found a way to sell their products. And there are other shining examples of business survivors along with those risking it all to start a new biz during this pandemic. — PAGE 18

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table of contents MAY/JUNE 2020 volume 23 • issue 5

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: In Honour Of Our Seniors 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Migrant Workers To The Rescue For decades now, people in Windsor and Essex County have wondered why, during tough economic times, Canadians on social assistance can apparently refuse to work in our greenhouses and vegetable and fruit fields without losing their benefits. Joseph Sbrocchi (pictured), General Manager of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, explores the reasons why thousands of migrant workers flock to our region every spring, with Columnist Alan Halberstadt.

8 Front Lines 13 Heard On The Street 14 Newsflash Libro Credit Union (photo courtesy of Libro) announced in late May that it is the first Canadian financial institution to offer a new digital payments service.

Libro customers now have the opportunity to schedule an Interac e-Transfer, the electronic money transfers sent through Interac. Our good news column fills you in on all the details and also mentions new appointments, anniversaries and more.

16 Food For Thought: DeMarco’s Fine Foods, Yorktown Plaza 24 Portfolio Corner: Economies Bouncing Back From A Crisis 25 Accounting Counts: Facing The Post COVID-19 World 26 Ask The Experts: Made To Shade Window Coverings Ltd.

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29 XX Files: Jenny White, Swinging Soaps Don’t you just want to sink your teeth into this cake?

But wait . . . it’s not what you think . . . pictured is a cake made of SOAP! Making all the items she sells in-house, Jenny White operates under the motto: “We make gentle bath and body products fun.” She does this with slices of soap cakes and donut bath bombs (in every colour under the rainbow!) to bubble bath luxury soaks, artisan soap bars, body sugar scrubs and more.

After reading this article you will quickly understand why White’s whimsical shop on Provincial Road is her dream come true.

30 The Parenting Biz: The School Of Life Since schools are closed due to the pandemic, children are receiving an informal education (unless enrolled in private school) and learning from their experiences, both good and bad. Does this mean your child is always on their phone or tablet? Wearable technology, virtual reality, and smartphones, are just some of the devices that have helped to “digitize” our lives more than ever before. And with no real daily routine, more and more kids are becoming digitally dependent or addicted to these devices. We have advice from a counsellor with The Centre for Problem Gambling and Digital Dependency in Windsor. In addition our parenting feature also explores health matters and offers a few suggestions of ways to keep your child active (and off the phone!).

34 Let’s Talk About: The Advantages Of A Digital Local Currency 36 Take The Lead: Irek Kusmierczyk, M.P., Windsor-Tecumseh 37 The Way It Was: Giving Back To Veterans, One Stitch At A Time 38 Biz Of The Month: The Bloomin’ Gardener, Oldcastle

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ON THE COVER — “Welcome Back!“ — 18

While thousands of employees and business owners were forced to stay home when the COVID-19 crisis affected businesses across the region, many are now being called back to work. Reid Williams, Co-owner (third generation) of Williams Food Equipment celebrates the fact that his showroom is open for business again. It may be months before society returns to a new normal, but we found plenty of bright spots, like Williams Food Equipment, on the horizon.

COVER CREDITS: LOCATION: Inside the showroom of Williams Food Equipment, 2150 Ambassador Drive in Windsor. This 100% Canadian owned family-run business has been supplying high quality cookware and kitchenware since 1968. PRODUCTS: (Left) a WOLF Gourmet Stand Mixer with a Le Creuset Provence French Oven and Staub Tomato Cocotte in front.

In back is a Garland Range with Winco Commercial Pots on the burners, Rational Combi Oven with a Le Creuset Sage French Oven inside. (Tabletop on right) Wusthof Classic Ikon Knife Set with a Le Creuset Blueberry French Oven and Staub Tomato Cocotte in front. On the Zwilling J.A. Henckels Cutting Board is a Mercer Meat Cleaver and two Wusthof Classic Chef Knives.

SIGN: Created by FASTSIGNS of Windsor, celebrating its 20th anniversary and now operating from a new location, 5165 Halford Drive. See: FASTSIGNS.com/658 to learn about all their products and services so you can get back to business . . . fast!

Photo by Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com) B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y / J U N E 2 0 2 0

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from the publisher

Let’s All Give Seniors A Big Hand

By Deborah Jones

First, I want to begin with a quick explanation of how Biz X magazine is adapting to these challenging times.

Whereas the COVID-19 shutdown of businesses affected the timing of our April, May and June publications — usually out the first week of each month — we are slowly catching up to our regular schedule, thanks to our hard working team along with the support of our advertisers.

Months before the pandemic hit I decided to write my column about June being declared “Seniors Month”. And even though the month is almost over, I want to proceed as planned.

I have limited space — not enough of course to really emphasize why seniors need to be celebrated — however, I will make the best use of this page that I can to prove my point.

Raymond Cho, Government of Ontario Minister for Seniors and Accessibility stated

on June 1: “As we take this opportunity to mark Seniors’ Month, we recognize that these are very challenging times for seniors as they continue to self-isolate due to the risk of COVID-19. Now, more than ever, it is important that we come together to support our seniors and recognize and honour the knowledge, experience and the contributions that seniors have made to build the province that we enjoy today — and that they continue to make every day in communities across Ontario.”

This year’s theme, “Stay Safe, Stay in Touch” focuses on keeping our older adults safe, connected and engaged at home.

If you have a friend or neighbour who is an older adult or know a person with a disability, reach out to them to ensure they have what they need during this difficult period (maybe you can help pick up their medicine, groceries or other essential items).

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For example, take Mark Jones (no relation) a big community supporter who is always there to lend a helping hand. The local operator and Regional Manager at New World Park Solutions formed a group back in March to help seniors, high risk, healthcare/front line workers and anyone affected by the coronavirus. Now, over 150 volunteers assist Jones wherever and whenever help is needed!

(On Facebook search “Windsor Essex Seniors/ High Risk needing necessities” to get involved) To learn more on how the government is helping seniors stay safe and make our province more accessible for everyone, refer to: Ontario.ca/page/ministry-seniors-accessibility.

In closing, keep in mind it should not take a special month (or a pandemic) to celebrate how important seniors are in our lives. We need to show them how much we care, every day of the year no matter what is happening in the world.

Reach out to someone you love today. . .

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editorial viewpoint

Is Farm Labour Exempt From Ontario Works Rules?

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

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nvariably during times of economic strife and widespread unemployment in our region, the call goes out to send the unemployed to work in the greenhouses and vegetable and fruit fields around Kingsville and Leamington.

There were various media accounts this spring about migrant workers from Mexico and Jamaica having difficulty crossing the U.S. border due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Thankfully, after the government intervened, they were allowed to enter the country, and after 14 day quarantines, they were able to harvest the crops of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers etc. and avert financial disaster for farm and greenhouse owners.

There are an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 migrant workers in Essex County, according to Joseph Sbrocchi, General Manager of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers.

The media attention on the crisis prompted some commentators to question why unemployed Ontarians and Canadians apparently won’t do this kind of work.

Ontario Works regulations say jobless people must actively seek work in order to continue to receive social assistance benefits.

Is there an unwritten rule exempting farm work from that requirement? Our guardians of the public purse didn’t want to touch that hot potato with a 10-foot pole.

I left a message for Jelena Payne, City of Windsor’s Commissioner of Community Development and Health Services, requesting a phone interview.

Payne’s Assistant called me back and said I needed to pose any questions to the communications branch of Ontario’s Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.

A polite young man named Daniel Schultz from that department asked me to send him the questions. After an email exchange that I felt didn’t answer my core question, I decided to get blunt.

“Is there ever the occasion when a social assistance recipient is cut off benefits because he or she is able-bodied and refuses to seek a job, or take a job, in a

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greenhouse or in a vegetable or fruit field in Ontario?”

Here is Schultz’s roundabout reply . . .

“For the purposes of eligibility for Ontario Works, adults receiving social assistance are required to participate in employment assistance activities to help them find, prepare for and keep a job. These activities are determined on an individual basis between a client and their caseworker and may include job search, employment placement and job retention services, and access to basic education. Additionally, recipients are required to make reasonable efforts to accept and maintain full-time, part-time, or casual employment if they are physically capable, for the purposes of eligibility.”

Next I called Sbrocchi, who is based in Leamington.

“Historically, Ontarians have not wanted to do seasonal work,” he understated.

When I asked him if farm workers are exempt from Ontario Works eligibility rules, he quipped: “You’ll have to ask the government that.”

When I told him I already did so, he replied: “The response of Canadians to come forward looking for agricultural jobs is disappointing. Hopefully people will come around, but I wouldn’t hold my breath.”

There are starkly different points of view

Ah, the bounty of the county! Pictured are SUNSET Angel Sweet grape tomatoes from Mastronardi Produce Ltd. of Kingsville, the largest vegetable greenhouse operator in North America. Photo courtesy of Mastronardi Produce Ltd.

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While jobless Canadians spurn farm work, foreign workers like this Jamaican man toiling in an Essex County greenhouse, treasure our jobs like manna from heaven. Photo courtesy of a local greenhouse grower.

on this issue. The old school chalks it up to a culture that is too soft, catering to a lazy younger generation with an aversion to hard labour, or labour of any kind.

In researching this topic, I heard tales about Canadians showing up to work in a field in the morning and leaving at noon, not even bothering to come back to pick up their pay.

Unreliable conduct like that can be disastrous for farmers working on a limited timeline to successfully harvest their crops.

In this pandemic era, why would an unemployed person take a job on a farm when he/she can sit at home and collect $2,000 a month (this was allowed during a certain time frame) from the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).

On the other hand, in normal times, a single person on social assistance in Ontario is paid only $656 a month.

A couple with two children gets $1,173.

The intent of Ontario Works is to help residents find employment, develop job skills and get financial help with necessities while they look for work.

A temporary worker in Ontario receives a minimum wage of $14 an hour, with free lodging and one trip into town a week.

Sbrocchi says migrants, many of whom have been coming to Essex County for decades, push hard to work 55 hours a week or more in our greenhouses or fields.

He tells the story of a conversation he had with one Mexican worker recently, who has been coming back for nine years to help feed his family back home and send his son to law school.

“He boasted that he makes more money working here for eight months of the year than his son earns as a lawyer for a full year in Mexico City,” Sbrocchi informs me.

The minimum wage in Mexico, which had a 20 percent boost in 2020, is $11.95 CAN a day — not an hour.

“I’d love to see more Canadians pursue job opportunities in agriculture,” says Justin Falconer, CEO of Workforce WindsorEssex, a workforce and community development board whose mission is to lead regional employment and community planning for the development of a strong and sustainable workforce.

The non-profit agency, with core funding from the provincial government, has a job match board that fluctuates hourly.

On May 27, 2020, of 956 jobs available for unskilled workers, 112, or 11.7 percent, were for greenhouse workers.

Farm operators are obliged by federal law to advertise job openings for domestic job seekers in newspapers, or they can’t employ foreign workers. Sadly, there are precious few local applicants.

Falconer and Sbrocchi, as part of their mandate to attract domestic workers, are trying to upgrade the image of farm workers.

“There’s a stigma attached to the word

migrants,” states Sbrocchi, who has taken to calling them “guest workers”.

There is a skill set required to do farm work, he adds, drawing a comparison to a busy coffee shop worker who has learned how to efficiently pour a cup of coffee.

“The picking and packing jobs are entry level jobs and provide a tremendous opportunity to learn the industry on the ground floor and have an opportunity for advancement into jobs such as forklift driver, inspecting, purchasing, marketing and supervisor,” says Falconer. “Training is also available from the employer.”

The working conditions in greenhouses can actually be quite pleasant, with bright sunlight and controlled temperatures.

The image of the agriculture industry suffered a blow this spring with a COVID-19 outbreak and the deaths of young migrant workers employed in the county. As tragic as this is, it is not surprising given the communal setting of the temporary worker bunkhouses.

Farm operators are required to provide infected employees with places to isolate in off-site housing such as hotels, and keep track of information made available to the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.

Sbrocchi insists the bunkhouses of the biggest operators are state of the art

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Justin Falconer, CEO of Workforce WindsorEssex: upgrading the image of “guest workers”.

Photo courtesy of Mychailo Kovaliv.

facilities and subject to the oversight of six different federal departments.

“The industry is evolving and changing” says Falconer, who expresses hope that the future will see more Canadians in these jobs.

Everything is possible in this new pandemic age, including even that.

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FRONTLINES

EPICentre Launches Program To Help Those Affected By COVID-19 T he University of Windsor EPICentre in collaboration with WEtech Alliance and the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre, officially launched the EPIC “Nimble Program” in late May. Funded by FedDev Ontario under the “Community Economic Development and Diversification” stream program and also funded by the Lucas Imagine Fund, the EPIC Nimble Program is open to any existing for-profit business in the Windsor Essex Region currently facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program supports businesses looking to adopt technology to either create new revenue streams or to pivot to a new business model in order to achieve sustainability and stay competitive in the fast-changing marketplace.

“We were overwhelmed with the response to this program,” states Wen Teoh, EPICentre Director. “We received over 50 applications from local, small businesses looking to pivot their business model in these uncertain times. We had the incredibly difficult task of narrowing it down to seven applicants who will move on to complete this program.”

The EPIC Nimble Program invited founders of small businesses, in

Sue Brunet, Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist and owner of Ergonow Inc., is photographed in her new showroom, which opened in mid-June at 3033 Marentette Avenue in Windsor. The company has been operating for the past six years and is one of seven businesses benefiting from the EPICentre program.

Photo courtesy of Ergonow Inc.

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operation for a minimum of two years, to propose an innovative idea to help their businesses achieve sustainability or to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace by adopting new technology.

In turn, successful applicants receive program benefits valued at over $6,000 and guidance from community partners.

“RISE Windsor-Essex is excited to provide support to the EPIC Nimble program as it directly relates to our mission of helping to increase the number of female-led businesses in our region,” says Nicole Anderson, Program Director for the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy at the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre “With barriers created due to COVID-19, this program is perfect to ensure that local entrepreneurs pivot using technology to remain sustainable during and after the pandemic. We are excited to work directly with the program’s female entrepreneurs and provide them access to our regional resources through our network.”

In addition to access to programs and services through community partners, successful participants of the EPIC Nimble Program will receive up to $4,000 in grant funding that must be used towards the proposed project including tech development, marketing, and legal costs.

“WEtech Alliance is looking forward to working alongside these local businesses to support them along their digital transformation journey,” comments Yvonne Pilon, President, and CEO of WEtech Alliance. “As we enter the COVID-19 recovery phase, digital transformation will be key to helping businesses survive and emerge in a better, stronger position.”

Paul Brereton, EPICentre Program Lead, heading up the Nimble Program adds, “The response to this program has been absolutely phenomenal. We received applications from 18 different industries, geographically covering every corner of Windsor Essex. The project proposals totaled over $166,000, showing a very real need for these innovative pivots. We have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in how businesses in our community not only survive, but strive.”

Seven applicants from the Windsor Essex region have been selected to join the program and have until November 30, 2020 to complete their proposed project.

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Another Nimble Program participant, Riverside Pie Café, is a made from scratch micro-bakery focusing on both sweet/savoury pies and pastries, including tarts, cookies, scones and squares. They also offer a light takeout lunch menu and for the summer months, they craft paleta style ice pops (made from fresh fruit and organic cane sugar such as the raspberry hibiscus pictured), cookie ice cream sandwiches and scoop Kawartha Dairy ice cream. The Café is set to re-open early July. Photo courtesy of Olivia Ryan.

The first EPIC Nimble Cohort includes . . .

• GreenerBins Composting Co., Dane Fader, GreenerBinsCompost.com • The Grove Hotel, Jennifer Flynn, 12 Main Street East, Kingsville, MyGroveHotel.com • Efficient Operations Inc., Chris Courey, 12237 Riverside Drive East, Windsor, DansNauticalShop.com • Riverside Pie Café, Olivia Ryan, 5560 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor, RiversidePieCafe.com • Ergonow Inc., Sue Brunet, 3033 Marentette Avenue, Windsor, Ergonow.com • Yoga with Lora, Lora Colautti, 4165 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor, YogaWithLora.ca • Windsor Creative, Devon Pastorius, Aomktg.com For more information on the EPIC Nimble program, please go online to the page: EpicentreUwindsor.ca/epicnimble-program.

FRONTLINES

Detroit Mobility Lab & WE EDC Team Up To Support Mobility Companies Expanding To Windsor Essex And Detroit It is hoped the Windsor-Detroit region will soon become a two-nation destination for existing and fledgling mobility companies as the result of a partnership between economic development departments of the two crossborder cities.

The partnership, announced in midMay, is expected to encourage tax benefits, bi-national grants and tap into the talent pool of technology graduates from universities on both sides of the border.

The Detroit Mobility Lab, one of the key players, is a partnership bringing together mobility entrepreneurs, academic leaders, service providers, industry suppliers and auto industry executives.

“It’s a very big deal and something we are excited about joining,” says Matthew Johnson, Director of Investment Attraction with the Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC). “It’s the first ever bi-national mobility partnership and its goal is to build a pipeline flowing in

both directions that will allow companies on both sides of the border to tap into our joint economic ecosystem.”

With a target of working with more than 50 companies, the partnership’s mandate is to assist mobility-focused start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises within the Windsor Essex/Detroit region.

Through a unique working relationship on both sides of the border, members of the partnership receive resources, support and information on how to scale and grow within Canada and the U.S. Chris Thomas, Co-founder and President of the Detroit Mobility Lab, believes the region has the potential to become the most valuable centre for mobility in North America.

“This announcement with the WE EDC brings yet another key partner into the fold, which will allow us to provide an unparalleled mobility ecosystem to any legacy automotive company or mobility start-up in the world,” adds Thomas.

Johnson also mentions that while Detroit is a global player in mobility systems, Windsor brings a progressive immigration system, a strong automotive tech sector and hundreds of tech graduates from the University of Windsor and St. Clair College to the table.

“While it wasn’t successful, the joint bid between Windsor and Detroit to host Amazon’s second headquarters opened a lot of eyes on both sides of the border to the potential this region has in becoming a global mobility player,” says Johnson.

On this side of the border, there are also tax credits available to companies through the federal government’s Scientific Research and Experimental Development program.

Johnson explains that once those tax credits and other available grants are in hand, companies can leverage those advantages with venture capital opportunities on both sides of the border.

For info, visit: ChooseWindsorEssex.com or DetroitMobilityLab.com.

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FRONTLINES Windsor Tech Company Brings Digital Signage Inside YQG Hair Salons And Day Spas

Joel Paterson, Co-founder of Rivereto is pictured by a TV screen he transformed into a sample digital signage ad with the Biz X magazine logo. Photo courtesy of Rivereto.

Amid challenging times, a Windsor based technology company is helping hair salons, barber shops and day spas improve the client experience.

Co-founded by Windsor native, and local marketing company owner Joel Paterson (Primary Target Media, 2002), Rivereto transforms existing TV screens into eyecatching, always up-to-date digital signage.

Compatible with virtually any TV screen, Rivereto (pronounced “River-eto”) helps these businesses further engage clients during their visit, through the use of hair and skin tips, retail promotions, new product announcements and more. The screen(s) can also serve as an information delivery tool, to help inform clients of ongoing COVID-19 measures/protocols happening inside their establishment.

“I truly believe that resilience is born in times of uncertainty,” Paterson stresses.

“One of those times is now (with the shutdown of salons due to the coronavirus crisis), and many companies, including salons/spas are starting to embrace a slightly-pivoted approach to running their businesses. Technology is playing a key role in this shift, and it’s exciting to see.”

As a confessed ‘numbers nerd’, Paterson uses statistics/consumer behaviour to further his point, stating “Research shows that digital signage inside hair salons/day spas captures significantly more views than traditional signage and counter-top displays, resulting in nearly 33% more retail sales.”

He also claims, “One in five in people

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make an unplanned purchase after seeing a product featured on digital signage, and studies have shown it also positively impacts wait-time dissatisfaction.”

In addition to having no monthly fees, Rivereto has waived the one-time set up fee ($498+hst) for hair salons, barber shops and day spas, to help make digital signage an integral part of boosting the client experience, moving forward.

“Rivereto has been the perfect solution for us,” expresses Sandra Crevier, owner at The Barber’s Chair in Devonshire Mall.

“We wanted to find a better way to keep customers in the loop about latest promotions and new products we’re carrying, but we dismissed digital signage in the past, because it seemed like kind of a hassle. Thankfully, Rivereto designs and updates the TV every month, so it’s always fresh!”

As mentioned by Crevier, the software allows the Rivereto team to update the screen remotely to change the content when needed.

The company also has introduced an advertising partnership model giving local companies the ability to advertise on TV screens inside these participating salons/spas throughout the region.

Mutually beneficial, one company is able to deploy digital signage in their business without a large out-of-pocket expense, while the hand-picked advertiser is able to reach their desired demographic with targeted advertising.

For more information regarding these new services please see: GetRivereto.ca.

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HEARD ON THE STREET Perciballi Pools & Spas, one of the region’s oldest pool companies, is adding a pizza component to its Tecumseh location at 11634 Tecumseh Road East, according to Manager Diana Luciani. It’s expected that the pizzeria will be open by the beginning of July once all the equipment and required permits are in place. Luciani says that “We haven’t settled on a date yet, but it shouldn’t be too long before we’re up and running.”

Luciani informs Biz X that the company closed a pizza restaurant on Patillo Road over a month ago and decided to move everything under one roof. “We’ve split the store in half so it should make it more convenient for everyone to operate out of one place,” adds Luciani. Meanwhile, the pool business is booming, largely because many area residents have cancelled plans for vacations, given the current COVID-19 crisis, and are instead concentrating on their homes and gardens. “We’ve been busy with estimates and taking orders and now that we’ve been given the green light to start construction, we expected to be crazy busy for the next couple of months if not longer,” Luciani comments. For more information, visit: PerciballiPools.com.

MATHCA, a virtual reality gaming centre serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, is preparing to open at 12058 Tecumseh Road East in the town of Tecumseh. Owner Ahmed Merie, who has a PhD in mathematics, reveals the centre was slated to open before the COVID-19 crisis changed his plans.

“We expect to be open for takeout only first, and then once restrictions are lifted we will open up for gaming sessions,” says Merie.

Most of the games will be educational in nature and based on mathematics, but with

a lot of fun components included, explains Merie. Catering for birthday parties and other occasions will be added as well and there will be a separate area for children under the age of five where parents can watch while older children use the gaming equipment. Eventually, breakfast items offered will include crepes, omelettes, waffles and flapjacks. The lunch and dinner menu will feature pitas, salads and burgers along with lamb and chicken plates and a variety of sides. The building was previously home to Railside Jack’s, The Broken Egg and for many years, Gilligan’s. For more information, visit: MATHCA.ca.

In preparation for a full re-opening of downtown Windsor businesses, the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) started offering free resource and safety supply packages to its members beginning June 1. The package includes disposable masks, hand sanitizer, window clings, floor decals and a set of six public service announcement posters. “We’re delighted to see businesses reopening in the core,” says DWBIA Chair Brian Yeomans. “But we know returning to work can be a difficult thing to navigate.” Yeoman adds that “We want our membership to know we’re putting them first and we support their safety and that of their patrons and customers.”

Members who wish to receive a kit can view contact information for the BIA at: DowntownWindsor.ca/contact.

Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies has become the latest company to fall victim to the Conservative provincial government’s

decision to cancel the much-vaunted FeedIn Tariff program. The company, located at 11600 County Road 42, was launched in 2010 initially to manufacture solar panels and it later switched to installation services. It was purchased in 2015 by Bluewater Power, a public utility company based in Sarnia.

Unconquered Sun Owner and Founder Sean Moore couldn’t be reached for comment before press time. The building is listed for sale by CBRE agents Brook Handysides and Brad Collins for $2.05 million. Only a handful of employees remain and operations are expected to shut down completely within a month or so. Last July, CS Wind, a manufacturer of wind turbine towers, closed its doors citing a drop in business, again because of the cancellation of the FeedIn Tariff program instituted by the previous Liberal government, to great fanfare.

The value of building permits issued by the City of Windsor through the first quarter of 2020 have held their own compared to one year ago, despite the pandemic crisis, which shut down many construction projects across the province. So far this year, $117,308,933 in permits have been issued compared to $119,974,856 a year ago. Residential permits lead the way at $64.2 million compared to $47 million and government and institutional permits are up to $28.5 million from $23.1 million. Industrial permit values have dropped to $16 million from $19.8 million and commercial permits have fallen to $8.5 million from $29.3 million. The major projects to come online this year include construction of a new student residence at St. Clair College for $18 million; an addition at Academie Ste. Cecile at 925 Cousineau Road for $2.626 million; an addition to the Ska:Na Family Learning Centre at 1699 Northway Avenue for $1.4 million; construction of an above-grade portion of a medical centre at 2950 Metcalfe Street for $1.08 million; interior renovations at the Best Western Plus at 255 Riverside Drive West for $1 million; interior fittings for Quicken Loans’ offices at 156 Chatham Street West for $700,000 and construction of a softball complex and parking lot at St. Clair College for $699,000.

Please support our advertisers!

They make our magazine possible each and every issue.

We thank all of them for making the wise choice to invest their ad dollars locally with us.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN

Libro Credit Union (Libro.ca) announced at the end of May 2020 that it is the first Canadian financial institution to offer a new digital payments service. Libro “Owners” — which is what the southwestern Ontario credit union calls customers, because they own a piece of the company — are the first banking customers to have the opportunity to schedule an Interac e-Transfer, the electronic money transfers sent through Interac. That’s across the entire banking industry — all banks, credit unions and fintechs. The announcement, part of a pilot project in partnership with Central 1 Credit Union, comes as COVID-19 is driving dramatic changes in Canadians’ spending habits. Since digital services are becoming increasingly important, Libro has continued enhancing its already-strong online service offering. This advance adds to the seamless and rich payment experience by making it possible for Libro Owners to set up one-time transfers at a future date.

ON THE MOVE Introducing Sarah Grandy, The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association's new Marketing Communications Specialist.

The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association (CTMA) has introduced a new team member, Sarah Grandy as its Marketing Communications Specialist. Based in Cambridge, Ontario, Grandy now works under the direction of Executive Director Robert Cattle and Office Manager Julie McFarlane. With a background in journalism

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and public relations, Grandy will develop and execute all marketing and communication activities to enhance the association’s brand and help foster membership growth. And although Darlene Carr has taken a step back from her position as CTMA Finance and Marketing Coordinator, she has started a bookkeeping service and continues to handle their accounting functions on a contract basis.

For further information about the association regarding membership, training/education and more, log on to: CTMA.com.

HALL OF FAME Port Windsor is the first Port in Canada to be named a “Marine Trusted Partner” by the Chamber of Marine Commerce for best practices put in place to protect ship crews, customers, service providers and the public from risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

From the beginning of the outbreak, Port Windsor has taken several measures to ensure its staff has up-to-date information and knowledge about the COVID-19 virus.

Work arrangements were modified to allow staff to work from home where possible, or be provided with enhanced protocols and PPE to protect them and other workers while performing their duties. The Port provided all operators with the most current information to protect portside staff, and how to engage safely with visiting ships. As well, foreign ships coming into port are tracked continuously for the health conditions of their crew. Port Windsor President and CEO, Steve Salmons expresses: “We are proud of our many operators who have made the health and safety of all workers in Port Windsor a priority. They have all taken steps to ensure that Port Windsor remains a destination of

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choice. This is more than about keeping the flow of essential goods and materials flowing, it’s about keeping our community safe.” Read more details on: PortWindsor.com.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO . . .

AlphaKOR — an IT service, digital marketing, custom software and cyber security prevention company located at 7800 Twin Oaks Drive in Windsor — offers full IT support, servers/networking support and software and hardware sales.

During these challenging times, the company is helping many organizations keep their businesses running and safe.

Their design team offers custom software development, website design and online marketing and the security team specializes in hardened firewalls, intrusion detection systems, intrusion monitoring, IT policy set up, activity monitoring and more. The “AlphaKORians” consist of a group of four partners: President Frank Abbruzzese; Ali Jaber, Lead Analyst; Mazen Jaber, Director of Operations and Shawn O’Rourke, Director of Technical Services.

Together they have provided technology solutions for their clients and organizations of all sizes located all over the world for 25 years (actual anniversary date was February 25, 2020). For more information see their website: AlphaKor.com.

Congratulations to Parks Canada, Fort Malden National Historic Site 100 Laird Avenue South in Amherstburg (refer to: PC.GC.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/malden) on recognizing the 200th anniversary of the soldiers’ Brick Barracks in June 2020. The Brick Barracks were constructed in 1819-20 to house militia stationed at Fort Malden.

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

DeMarco’s Fine Foods 1349 Grand Marais Road West, Windsor

By David Clark

L

ike days gone by, you could find independent grocers around the community with lots of interesting food and choices to look into. A mirror image of that time, DeMarco’s Fine Foods (DemarcosFineFoods.com) opened in April of 2018 with that small town grocer feel captured here in Windsor today.

According to Raimondo (Ray) DeMarco, Co-Owner/Operator of the Yorktown Plaza location, “DeMarco’s is a small family owned business whose main vision is to provide the freshest quality food possible. We wish to create a spot for all of Windsor’s food entrepreneurs to come together in a yearround market. We are not here to compete with the big box stores; we are unique in the local marketplace.”

Ray (who has 13 years of experience) handles the ordering and receiving of deliveries and prepping produce for the coolers. His wife and Co-Owner/Operator, Felicia DeMarco, looks after curbside operations, stocks the shelves, takes orders, meets with sales representatives and pitches in wherever possible on a host of other duties.

“With curbside, text pre-pay by phone, or pay upon arrival — and of course, walk in traffic is welcome, DeMarco’s can get it to you!” explains Ray. He claims, “We remain competitive by being open and offering everyday products alongside specialty items that are not found anywhere else in Windsor.”

At DeMarco’s you will find fruit, vegetables, bakery items, dairy, specialty items and other grocery selections. Hard to find grocery items from around the world

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Ray and Felicia DeMarco, Owners of DeMarco’s Fine Foods love every opportunity to interact with their customers by offering great products and unique food items. The couple aims to provide the best, most delicious and freshest produce in the Windsor community with satisfaction guaranteed. Photo by Rod Denis.

and locally-sourced produce line the shelves, side-by-side.

First up, the fresh fruit top sellers include strawberries, bananas and apples.

In particular, the Honey Crisp apples are locally sourced and the sweetest and crunchiest apple out there.

The best-selling vegetables include local carrots, local peppers and lettuce.

Carrots are the most versatile vegetable on the market.

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Some really special baked goods at DeMarco’s include the homemade Angel Wings and homemade garlic parmesan pita chips. As well, coffee cakes, pies and multigrain bread are available.

Called Crostoli, the Angel Wings are the top dog in the bakery, offering a staple that every Italian child grew up with.

Two thumbs up dairy items include, Kawartha Dairy . . . boasting a fresher and richer taste over its competitors.

And the second thumbs up is for a line of cheese favourites made by Black River Cheese.

Aside from produce and other grocery items, like berries, melons, stone fruit, yogurt, cakes and an assortment of desserts, Demarco’s creates many products in-store and offers specialty items too.

“Alongside our prepped meals, we have hummus, salsa and cookies,” notes Ray. “Additionally, we carry groceries from local vendors, such as perogies, vegan cheeses, Keto desserts, imported olives, Bubi’s Garlic Sauce and more.”

Also available are the big three, Keto, vegan and gluten free products. Many healthy choices, all in one place.

The Keto products are plentiful and popular, including desserts and bread made by local entrepreneurs.

Also, look at other Keto choices including noodles, BBQ sauce, chips and crackers.

Ray says that with their present location in South Windsor, the customers have been good to them. It is also popular with clients from across the Windsor area.

“With that, we want to expand our business model — we believe it can be replicated with success in another similar neighbourhood in Windsor,” Ray states. “At the current location, we will continue to market winning products, but also expand on that too by introducing and creating new grocery items depending on the customer’s needs at South Windsor.”

Recently, the entire world has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak with certain businesses/organizations suddenly shutdown for many weeks. Operating as an essential business, Ray points out “During the COVID-19 pandemic the community support has been overwhelmingly supportive.

Curbside service has worked and we have offered delivery through The Magical Mushroom Hub (TheMushHub.com).

We are trusted regarding our groceries and the well-being of what’s in the store. We have been open throughout the quarantine and the staff is wearing masks and gloves. We exercise social distancing and all equipment and surfaces are sanitized frequently.”

Getting back to the basic mission of this needed food retailer in the community, Ray effectively sums it all up in the following sentences: “We are creating a new dynamic to shopping by connecting local food entrepreneurs to new customers under one roof. We are essentially a year-round hub. With the ability to purchase all your groceries in 1,600 square feet in under five minutes (generally unheard of in the grocery industry), we have a competitive and convenient edge!”

For further information regarding hours and menu items visit their social media page: Facebook.com/DeMarcosFineFoods.

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COVER STORY By Dave Hall

Survival Of The Fittest . . .

Area Business Owners & New Entrepreneurs Adapt To The COVID-19 Pandemic

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worldwide health crisis has decimated economies across the world, shutting down businesses and forcing people to stay in their homes for extended periods of time.

Yet even with no end in sight before society returns to a new normal, there are success stories in Windsor and Essex County where battle-hardened entrepreneurs have risen up despite the heavy odds and made their businesses successful or even opened up new companies.

But, it hasn’t been easy.

According to a survey conducted by Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (VisitWindsorEssex.com), more than 53 percent of respondents in the hospitality and tourism sector reported they had to close their businesses entirely and more than 63 percent had to lay off staff.

And of those who reported layoffs, more than 70 percent said they had to lay off more than half their staff.

Quite clearly the pandemic has had a huge effect on business volumes with more than 53 percent of respondents saying that business had dropped by as much as 75 percent.

Ryan Donally, Manager of Investment and Corporate Marketing with the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (ChooseWindsorEssex.com), says different sectors were affected in different ways by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Businesses that were not able or not set up to sell digitally using curbside pickup have been hit much more seriously than those who could,” says Donally. “Devonshire Mall, for instance, generates upwards of 20,000 people on a busy day and it was completely shut down.”

Donally mentions that until the border between Canada and the USA opens again for anything other than essential travel, the hard times will continue, because many people cross over using the bridge or tunnel, in both directions, for shopping trips or restaurant visits.

“In addition, consumer confidence is an issue and how businesses handle their eventual re-opening will play a huge role,” Donally comments.

For many, the most challenging aspects of re-opening their businesses will be handling physical distancing, regaining consumer confidence and establishing and maintaining cleanliness protocols.

And in order to help businesses across Canada survive and pay their employees

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Curbside pickup is now accepted as a “new normal” way for customers to purchase items from a business, especially in retail and the restaurant industry. Pictured is India 47 Co-owner Nick Aujla greeting a customer with daughter Devina handing out another takeout order at their Tecumseh location. Photo by Rod Denis.

throughout this crisis, the Federal Government launched the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy on April 11.

The program, extended to August 29, 2020, provides 75 percent of remuneration paid by employers whose businesses showed a 15 percent drop in revenue in March and a 30 percent drop in April and May. By mid-May the government had processed and approved 215,661 claims and paid out $5.7 billion to help businesses across Canada survive.

According to Statistics Canada, in Ontario alone, almost 380,000 workers were laid off in April, an increase of 2,496 percent from April 2019.

Many were eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, which pays $500 a week for up to 16 weeks. By May 25, more than 8.33 million applications had been processed and $42.59 million had been paid out to qualified Canadians.

Despite all the heartbreak and decimation faced by businesses across most sectors, there were some bright moments created by people willing to put their livelihoods on the line in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic.

What follows is by no means an exhaustive list, but it shows some great examples of local entrepreneurs and their willpower.

India 47 Restaurant + Bar

It was hardly a recipe for success when Nick Aujla and four partners, with absolutely B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y / J U N E 2 0 2 0

no experience in the hospitality industry, decided to launch a new restaurant just as the COVID-19 crisis sent the economy into a downward spiral.

But launch they did, and despite offering just takeout services, India 47 has been an unqualified success.

“We opened on April 8 and we sold out within 90 minutes,” explains Aujla, a second-generation Ford Motor Company assembly line worker, who now runs the five-litre engine line at Essex Engine Plant.

“It has been amazing,” he expresses. “We have done very little advertising because we haven’t really had the money, so it’s all been word-of-mouth and it’s been great.”

Aujla and his partners signed an agreement to take over the former Webb’s Steak, Seafood, Burgers and Bar location at 1640 Lesperance Road in January and received the keys when everything shut down.

“There was no precedent for all of this and even though we didn’t qualify for any government funds because we were a new business, we decided to go ahead anyway,” says Aujla.

They had already hired a Chef from a successful Indian restaurant in Toronto and another with restaurant experience in India and they now lead a six person kitchen staff, which is busy every night and also during lunch hours.

“We started out with five nights a week and then expanded to seven nights and it’s been unbelievable,” Aujla states.

On Mother’s Day, for instance, they had to defer 30 meals to the following day because of unexpected demand.

Offering traditional Indian food, the restaurant is currently serving about 40 percent of its planned menu because many items are best served directly from the kitchen to the dining room.

The menu includes a variety of Naan breads, Samosas, Onion Bhaji, Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb or Chicken Vindaloo, Lamb, Chicken or Vegetable Biryani, Butter Chicken and Tandoori Chicken.

Along with his partners, Aujla has redecorated the dining area with murals depicting key dates in Indian history, beginning with the country’s partition from British India into the separate dominion states of India and Pakistan, which occurred in 1947.

As a result of the shutdown, the owners had six weeks during which time they were able to dedicate their efforts into launching the business.

“Looking back, it was crazy, but maybe the world needs more crazy right now,” says Aujla laughing.

Now, without knowing when they'll finally be able to open their dining room (until the Ontario government gives the go ahead), the partners are still making plans to comply with

Who says that takeout can only be burgers and fries? At India 47, Co-owner Nick Aujla (centre) and his two Chefs, Ramandeep Singh (left) and Aaron Babbar, beg to differ by offering diners choices, such as: Amitsari Machhi Fish, next to a bottle of Grey Goose Vodka and from clockwise: Saag Paneer, Aloo Gobhi, Tandoori Naan, Tandoori Chicken, Delhi Butter Chicken and Daal Makhni, plus all your favourite spirits. Photo by Rod Denis.

whatever rules health authorities put in place.

“We’re going to make sure the tables are sufficiently spaced apart and we will be placing hand sanitizers on every table,” Aujla notes. “We also plan to expand our

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patio services so we can accommodate more diners without the dining room becoming crowded.”

For more information on their takeout menu, visit their site: India47.ca.

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Even though you should follow advice and “don’t try this at home,” Reid Williams, Co-owner of Williams Food Equipment, knows that owning a business is a juggling act these days, but he and his team have the experience to pull it off. Reid is using his own brand of Williams’ cutlery, which is well balanced, clean and SHARP! The knives have been sterilized in an Edlund UV Sterilizer Cabinet. Photo by Rod Denis.

in what they are looking for,” he explains.

Williams concludes his section with: “We’ve all seen the good, the bad and the ugly during this crisis and we plan to come down fully on the side of the good and make people as comfortable as possible to be in our store and that includes staff and customers.”

And keeping on the good side, in May, the business proudly donated $10,000 to the Unemployed Help Centre of Windsor Inc., food bank.

To learn further details on this company check out: WilliamsFoodEquipment.com.

Disinfect Express

Williams Food Equipment

With a large portion of their clientele coming from the hospitality industry, the pandemic, which shutdown restaurants and bars across the region, hit Williams Food Equipment, 2150 Ambassador Drive in Windsor, particularly hard.

“We had to make some hard choices and lay off staff,” admits Co-owner Reid Williams of his family owned and operated business. “But, in the preparation for re-opening we have started to call people back.”

Operating for over 50 years selling high quality cookware and kitchenware, this “Candy Store for Cooks” already had an online presence for a number of years that continued throughout the shutdown. The store remained open for curbside pickup and local delivery during this time.

Williams indicates their showroom could

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have opened in mid-May, but he wanted to make sure all the plans were in place to make sure his staff and customers have a safe shopping experience. The showroom was re-opened June 1 with parking lot pickups and online ordering still offered.

He adds that adjustments have been made at all cashier stations to ensure safety, all staff will wear masks and sanitizers, and gloves and masks are available to customers as they enter the store.

“Masks will be optional, but if people see our staff wearing them, it may make it more comfortable for them to do so as well,” believes Williams.

Since most of their customers are looking for specific items or specific categories of goods, one-way shopping lanes probably won’t be necessary.

“Unlike shoppers in a grocery store, our shoppers are a bit more targeted B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y / J U N E 2 0 2 0

Four long time friends have built a new business during this pandemic with the recent launch of Disinfect Express, a completely local company.

Dan Spada, Marco Tontodonati, Michael Quaggiotto and Marco Scipione opened up in mid-May and the company has picked up a number of clients who need disinfection services at their residences or small businesses across the region.

The disinfectant presents itself as a fog when it is sprayed and gets into every nook and cranny, which many cleaning services may miss or forget.

“It’s all completely non-toxic and eliminates 99.999% of virus and airborne pathogens,” explains Spada. “COVID-19 changed the world as we know it and we all collectively decided to start something, which not only protects our family, but also people right across the area.”

“When we come out the other side of all this, we will probably continue to need these kinds of services,” he believes.

Spada and his partners are also employed in a variety of industries and all were affected in different ways during the shutdown which, for now, is slowly being lifted.

“We wanted to do something completely locally-owned,” Spada adds. “We’re not a franchise and all the revenue we generate stays in the community and is being pumped back into the business.”

For the moment, the five partners are the company’s sole employees, but Spada expects that to change as business picks up.

Get the full scoop on this new company online at: DisinfectExpress.ca.

Gauthier Roofing and Siding

Ron Gauthier, President of the 52 year old roofing company, was ahead of the game when pandemic restrictions were put in place by the provincial government in mid-March.

“In the interest of customer and employee safety, I decided to operate our office remotely and suspend all installations,

Disinfect Express, a local cleaning company, grew out of the COVID-19 crisis and provides non-toxic cleaning services to businesses and residential properties. Here, a worker provides disinfectant services at Halliwell Seguin Law Office, 1222 Lesperance Road in Tecumseh.

Photo courtesy of Disinfect Express.

including site visits for estimates, about two weeks before it was mandated by the government,” says Gauthier.

With much of the technology already in place before the pandemic, he added a few more options for customers so they could make selections and allow his staff to sell and line up work in time for when the restrictions were lifted on May 19.

“Our website was used in much the same way as always which, for product selection, is basically a starting point since final selections shouldn’t be made from online

images,” explains Gauthier. “From there, we either mailed samples or arranged for customers to pick them up curbside from our distributors.”

Gauthier had to lay off his installation crew during the shutdown, but has since called them all back to work.

Business has been much better than anticipated throughout the crisis because, according to Gauthier, a lot of consumers are choosing to invest in their homes not only for protection, but for the aesthetic value.

“We’ve seen a lot in our 50-plus years and although I can’t say we planned for a pandemic, we’ve always re-invested into the business and planned for the unexpected,” he adds. “We’re positioned very well to be adaptive and flexible and have always stayed on top of technology.”

Gauthier was pleasantly surprised by how quickly consumers embraced the technology and while many didn’t know what a Zoom meeting was a few months ago, they now look like experts.

“Technology was already moving forward, but this definitely gave it a boost,” says Gauthier whose company is located at 266 County Road 42 in Windsor.

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

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Ron Gauthier, President of Gauthier Roofing and Siding, is pictured in this collage, below his father Bernie, who founded the company in 1968. The company recently re-opened with installation services now resuming after being largely shutdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients were still able to view products on the company’s website with safe, remote estimates offered.

Photo courtesy of Gauthier Roofing and Siding.

The Suit Shop Co. Ltd.

When the COVID-19 health crisis began it forced Lazaros Dimitriou to close the doors of The Suit Shop Co. Ltd. for two months.

So he quickly decided to pivot and put his skills and those of his seamstresses and tailors to good use.

He launched a campaign asking for donations of dress shirts with a goal of making 500 completely washable and re-usable cloth masks.

“We wanted to do whatever we could

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Since opening his store three and a half years ago, Dimitriou indicates that business is beginning to pick up again, but wedding packages, which provided a large part of his previous business, likely won’t increase until the fall or later.

Log on to their site: TheSuitShopCo.com to find more out about how to order a face mask and to view their custom packages and collections.

My Pet’s Butler

Lazaros Dimitriou, owner of The Suit Shop Co. Ltd. in Via Italia was busy making cloth masks when his location was forced to close in mid-March for two months.

Dimitriou and his tailors/seamstresses made 500 masks, which they donated to Windsor Regional Hospital’s Met Campus. They are still making these masks and selling them at the store that was able to re-open in mid-May. Photos courtesy of The Suit Shop Co. Ltd.

to help people facing this awful situation,” Dimitriou emphasizes.

He recently dropped off the 500 masks at Windsor Regional Hospital’s cancer centre to be used by day patients. However, he decided to keep making masks and is now selling them from his store at 593 Erie Street in Windsor, which re-opened after the Victoria Day holiday.

“We’re now making them with a wet-dry style inner face, which makes them ideal for people who have to use them for an entire shift,” he explains.

Using fabric from his own personal in-store stock, the masks are sold for $8 (two for $15); $12 (two for $20) and $16 (two for $30) depending upon the style. There are a variety of colours and patterns available.

Unfortunately, Dimitriou wasn’t able to conduct any business during the closure because his suits are custom-made and require customer fittings. But, he figured out that when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade!

With hundreds of people across the region staying home because their businesses have shut down or their children’s schools have closed, one would expect the need for pet sitting and dog walking services would have plummeted.

That was not the case for Shawn Amerlinck, who has been operating My Pet’s Butler since December 2011. In fact quite the opposite has proven to be true.

“I’m busier than I expected, which is the complete opposite from what I anticipated,” Amerlinck comments.

“Many vet clinics were closed (except for emergencies) along with groomers and pet stores so the nail clipping services I provide are in great demand. And many people whose dogs I have walked in the past have stuck by me throughout all this and they still want to use my services.”

When called upon for a nail clipping, Amerlinck informs Biz X he practices social distancing by taking the pet into a separate room of a client’s house or into the backyard where there is room to stay apart.

If he’s asked to walk a client’s dog, he picks up the dog at the home’s gate or fence and then returns the pet to the same place before notifying the owner he has returned.

Amerlinck is working seven days a week, but still had to lay off three of his four employees because there’s not enough work for his entire staff despite the ongoing support from clients.

“I’m very grateful to my clients and I am anticipating an increase in client calls when

Have questions about CEWS? We know that the complexities of the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy and Temporary Wage Subsidy can create a high level of stress. Our tax team is here to help.

Contact us T: 519-251-3500 © 2020KPMG LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved. 23857

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B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y / J U N E 2 0 2 0

In this selfie shot in his car, Shawn Amerlinck, owner of My Pet’s Butler, is shown with Angel, one of the dogs he takes care of for a regular client. Since COVID-19 temporarily closed many businesses, in mid-March, Amerlinck is pleasantly surprised that many of his clients stuck by him. He’s also been filling appointments for pet manicures and has remained busier than he expected.

Photos courtesy of My Pet’s Butler.

all of this is eventually over,” he believes.

“It’s been a hard hit financially, but at least I’m in a sector that hasn’t completely shut down and I am still able to work.”

And for people not able to get out on their own, Amerlinck also picks up and delivers pet food and prescriptions to some clients.

“It’s been overwhelming at times, but at the same time somewhat beneficial because I think I will gain more clients because they’ve seen first-hand the services I can provide,” he adds.

Amerlinck is also grateful for the federal government’s Canada Emergency Business Account program, which loaned him $40,000. If repaid by December 31, 2022, this will result in loan forgiveness of 25 percent ($10,000).

“They came through for me and it’s been a big help,” he expresses.

Refer to: MyPetsButler.ca to find out how you can keep a tight leash on your pet while you are away!

Go Fog It

Born out of the health crisis itself, Go Fog It already has two locations — the original one in London launched by Melissa

McInerney and Diana House — and a second one in Windsor run by Beau Dubois and Scott Woodall.

McInerney and House launched their business after winning $20,000 in a “Recovery & Rebuilding the Region Design Challenge” funded by Libro Credit Union and its partners.

When Dubois and Woodall became aware of the business, they reached out and settled on a licensing agreement to open up shop in Windsor Essex.

“We saw an opportunity and went for it,” Dubois points out. “And we are already busy after launching in early May.” The business provides natural disinfectant fogging services to businesses, residences, stores and any other facility where disinfecting is now part of the normal way of doing business.

“As businesses slowly begin to re-open, we can help keep customers and staff safe by creating a completely germ-free environment,” Dubois claims. “We know that people in general and seniors in particular with auto-immune deficiencies, need to feel safe if they are to return to society.”

Dubois describes that it takes roughly 35 to 45 minutes to completely fog a 3,500 square foot home and about one hour for a 5,000 square foot business.

Beau Dubois, Co-owner of Go Fog It, a cleaning service launched in mid-May as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, sprays non-toxic disinfectant during a service call at Super Bowl Lanes on Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. Photo courtesy of Go Fog It.

“Depending upon the amount of outside traffic a business attracts, we recommend doing it weekly or perhaps monthly,” Dubois says. “Every place we go to is different and it really depends upon the type of business as far as the price is concerned.”

According to Dubois the disinfectant used is totally natural and totally safe and removes germs from all different kinds of surfaces.

Lori Atkinson, Libro’s Regional Manager, says the credit union was introduced to

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the London based Go Fog It through the May 2020 competition to help the region recover from the pandemic crisis.

The “Recovery & Rebuilding the Region Design Challenge” was funded by Libro Credit Union and sponsored by London’s TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario and the Pillar Nonprofit Network and co-presented by WEtech Alliance (Windsor) and Communitech (Kitchener-Waterloo).

“We received 120 applications from a wide range of perspectives and at different stages of development,” explains Atkinson. “Go Fog It was recognized for their innovation in finding solutions to COVID-19 challenges.”

Most of the applications dealt with some aspect of the pandemic, including hygiene, e-learning, mental health and personal protective equipment.

View further information on this new Windsor Essex business by checking out: GoFogIt.com.

We Will Survive And Be Stronger Than Ever

It will take quite some time for society and the business community to return to some semblance of normal when the pandemic settles down, but with adventurous entrepreneurs, loyal customers and safety precautions on our side, it could be quite the success story.

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portfolio corner

No Health, No Wealth

By Steven Mayo

These are unprecedented times.

As I write in late May, it’s my hope that

by July we have a clear path forward out of this coronavirus crisis.

Clarity is certain to come from our governments, scientists, and healthcare professionals. Until then we have to keep our heads down, do our part to keep our community safe and go forward slowly.

For now what’s important is to say “Thank You” to all our front line health professionals for their heroic care. Can you imagine the stress in their environment?

Thank you also to those working in retirement and nursing homes for their tireless care for the elderly. And to our manufacturing sector for being flexible, skilled, creative, and willing to produce personal protective equipment, sanitizers, and more.

Thank you to those working at the

grocery stores, LCBO, the farming and greenhouse community, and truckers who are essential for us maintaining our daily lives.

The physical distancing should work and one day soon our lives will get back to a “new” normal. Economies have always bounced back from crisis events.

Here’s a recent list . . .

• 2000 Tech Bubble bursts • 2001 9/11 Terrorist attacks • 2003 SARS and the War in Iraq • 2008 Financial Crisis/Great Recession • 2011 European debt crisis • 2012 MERS • 2018 Trade Wars

I am mindful that this pandemic has been a generational event and has affected all sectors of the economy. Hopefully we have seen the necessary adjustments to re-start the economy and re-employ people. It takes time. Please hang in there.

As a result of this crisis there will be an increased awareness to secure our own supply chains, of the importance of our health care workers and scientific breakthroughs, and how the use of technology can be expanded to educate and communicate.

I also hope that born from this pandemic is a new great generation of scientists and medical professionals. That would be a positive, lasting outcome from such a monumental event.

Let’s consider the following Winston Churchill quotes . . .

1) “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision.”

2) “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Director, and 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.

Give a Gift of shelter,

food & hope

TODAY!

www.downtownmission.com / Phone: 519-973-5573 Charity # : 119260420RR0001

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ACCOUNTING COUNTS

Questions To Ask In Times Of Change

By Alison Piccolo, CPA, CA

W

ith the rapid emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses are finding themselves in survival mode, while others may have started to look towards recovery and the new reality, rethinking what their operational models look like.

The tendency for owner managed and family businesses to pull together in times of crisis, puts them at an advantage — but as the world adjusts to its new normal, here are five questions entrepreneurs and business owners may want to consider when examining the longer-term strategy for their business.

1. What will my market look like, in a post COVID-19 world, and what has changed permanently?

The market and landscape your business operates in may be unrecognizable. Your competitors may be struggling or have ceased to operate, or moved into new product lines.

Consumer behaviour has likely also changed. As a result, you may need to invest in new products, marketing, or even consider acquisitions of complementary businesses to bolster your offering.

On the other side of the same coin, consider your own business in its entirety.

Are there parts of what you do or offer to customers that are starting to look less essential? And if so, how quickly can they be adapted to be more profitable?

It’s important to also look at, not just what your business does, but how it is run.

Succession planning is a top-of-agenda priority for family businesses and aging business owners at any time, but especially so in times of crisis and uncertainty.

The impact of COVID-19 has caused many business owners to think harder about succession plans and in particular, the different roles the next generation could play to help shape the business for the future.

This period of change may be the ideal opportunity to bring in new and fresh perspectives on every area of your business.

2. What will my balance sheet and funding structure look like and how might that need reworking?

The myriad of government programs for businesses represents the biggest support to owners and entrepreneurs, and will no doubt have been crucial for the survival of many.

It’s important to think of the longer-term impacts of these measures, in particular, what changes will you need to make to loan repayment schedules, payroll, supplier contracts and more, to make sure your cash flow is still adequate in the coming months? Deferrals are not permanent and, if not properly planned for, can cause further headaches down the line.

Another consideration is your relationship with funders, investors, or other stakeholders.

Our alliances are only as strong as how they fare in times of crisis, and it may be time to reconsider some of your working relationships to ensure you have the support you can rely on in the future.

Similarly, the current situation has made many families consider how robust their family governance is to manage risks and make investment decisions about the family’s wealth. Perhaps now is the time to either create or update a family constitution or structure a family council to better protect the family wealth and (re)design those contingency mechanisms that will help both in the present and in the future.

3. What risks have become apparent in this crisis, and how can I address them?

One thing is for sure, the last few weeks have tested businesses to their limits, exposing their strengths and weaknesses like nothing ever has before.

It’s particularly important for business owners to consider the bigger picture of how weaknesses can be addressed.

For example, is your company too reliant on particular individuals? Are you over-exposed to particular geographies, or vulnerable to weak spots in your supply chain?

Don’t forget to think about your internal organization at all levels — speak to your B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • M A Y / J U N E 2 0 2 0

staff to find out about the headaches this has caused them and start thinking about long-term solutions from all perspectives.

While overcoming the current pandemic might be the obvious victory, futureproofing your business is the bigger prize.

4. What have I learned about the culture of my business — the good, the bad, and the ugly?

Many family businesses are underpinned by a shared purpose which in turn drives the values of their company.

In times of crisis and change, this is often tested.

Did your organization align behind a shared purpose and how did it guide key decisions across the organization?

Families should reflect on whether their goals and vision need rethinking, or whether they are still aligned and brought to life at every level of the business.

A significant challenge facing owner managed and family businesses is keeping remote workforces engaged and motivated.

Existing employee engagement initiatives and programs might have been based entirely on in-person interaction, and now, pending our new reality, may require a complete makeover.

And while many of the operational decisions being made at senior or boardlevel might be business-critical, it is vital to make sure employees are kept informed on a day-to-day basis and that core activity such as health and safety initiatives and training programs are made relevant and sustained as much as possible.

After all, it’s the employees that make the business and their wellbeing is important.

5. What does the action plan for my business, in this new reality, consist of?

Last, is to invest the time to turn all of these considerations and conversations into concrete steps for action, working with your business leaders or family members towards the new normal.

It doesn’t have to be a solo endeavour.

With the right guidance and support, it’s possible to come out of the other side stronger and better prepared — to face the post COVID-19 world.

Alison Piccolo is a Chartered Professional Accountant and works for KPMG in Windsor (KPMG.ca). Alison has 15 years of experience in public accounting and currently leads the local Owner Managed Enterprise practice.

She works directly as a trusted business advisor to privately held companies, assisting with audit, accounting and tax matters.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

Made To Shade Has Your Windows Covered

By Dave Halliday

Y

ou sit relaxing in your den. It’s so quiet and peaceful. You have noticed that at about the same time each day the natural sunlight filters into the room at just the right intensity to provide a warm relaxed glow.

Luckily for you it seems to coincide with your afternoon break from the grind of working from home in this COVID-19 world we are currently living in.

The period of ideal natural light however, intensifies as the sun streams more directly through the window. The change ironically acts as a natural timer letting you know your break is over.

Although you don’t intend to stay on break all day you find yourself wishing you could somehow extend the period in which the warm glow of the natural light fills the room perfectly.

The desire to control the natural sunlight in your home is easy to identify, but the manner in which it can be achieved may not be as evident.

Biz X magazine was able to discuss some of the options with Michael Campoli who is founder, owner, sales representative, window covering consultant, and window covering installer at Made to Shade Window Coverings Ltd. (MadeToShade.ca).

Made to Shade Window Coverings has been serving the needs of local residents for the last 15 years (celebrating their official anniversary in May) and Michael has over 30 years of personal experience that he was kind enough to share with us.

Starting with the question of our current times. How has the recent COVID-19 crisis changed your day to day operations? “The COVID-19 crisis

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Professionally installed blinds, such as the Vision Eclisse Shades pictured, can complement the décor of any room.

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Campoli.

has changed our day to day operations since we weren’t able to provide our free-shop at home consultation to our clients,” notes Campoli continuing, “This inability made it difficult for our clients to choose window coverings that would complement not only their windows, but their home décor.”

So how has your company overcome these obstacles? “Now, with Ontario implementing different phases to reopen businesses (in mid-May) we are taking all the necessary precautions to keep ourselves and our clients safe so that we can continue to provide home consultations,” states

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Campoli. “We initially overcame this challenge by conducting virtual meetings to help clients view different window covering samples.”

How does Made to Shade assist the client in sorting through their options?

“At Made to Shade we bring a multitude of samples into the client’s home as this is the most beneficial way of sorting through window covering options as the fabric and colours can be viewed in the unique lighting of the client’s home,” he indicates. “We also help clients sort through window covering options by assessing how much sunlight

each window may receive throughout the day and by matching fabric colours to the customer’s existing decor.”

Describe the benefits to having professionally installed custom window coverings added to your home? “The benefits of having professionally installed window coverings is that they are custom made to fit each customer’s window,” Campoli replies. “The professional installation also ensures the window coverings are properly installed, leaving the customer with a worry free experience.”

What are the benefits of Dual Shades?

“Eclisse Dual Shades ​ feature alternating bands of sheer and solid fabric that create varying dimensions of light,” he describes.

“The solid bands can be shifted to overlap for optimal privacy or the solid bands can be aligned for a natural diffusion of light and illumination. The combination of sheer and solid fabric allows the shade to seamlessly transition from open to closed, providing a modern solution for light control and privacy.”

What are Roller Shades? “Roller Shades are specially crafted from a large selection of fabrics, with clean lines, straightforward operation, a large selection of fabrics, and achieve their popularity for their premium style and versatility,” informs Campoli.

“Multiple light control options are made

possible as the fabrics range from lightfiltering, room darkening, and complete blackout. This exceptionally versatile design easily adapts to any style of home, from traditional to modern, and to any business or commercial space.”

Are there any new technologies or developments in window coverings? “The latest development in window coverings is that they can be motorized, either by rechargeable battery or hardwired,” he comments. “Motorized window coverings can be operated by remote control, as well as through mobile applications. Motorization is an innovative tool due to the increasing demand for home automation and child safety.”

The light in your den is now perfect throughout the day and it has at least allowed you the versatility to take your breaks whenever you wish.

Being forced to work from home has come with challenges, but like everyone else facing the similar situation, you have learned to make the best of it.

You have also discovered a rather timely secondary benefit to the new window coverings – a feeling of privacy. Like many of us, you have determined pants are essentially optional when working from home!

Stay safe, everyone!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN Story And Photo By Julianna Bonnett

JENNY WHITE

She’s The Bomb (of baths, that is!)

A

t Swinging Soaps, local entrepreneur, Jenny White, works day and night perfecting her own little twist on gentle bath and body products made fun for all.

What started out as a small business idea after realizing her daughter Alyssa had eczema, White ventured out and started making soaps to test for people with sensitive skin types. And as a result, back in December of 2016, she opened her own shop at 2001 Provincial Road in Windsor.

Born in Hull, Quebec, and raised in Ottawa, White always had a dream of being an artist, but she knew making luxury soaps was also a passion of hers, at a young age.

“I remember spending $14 on a rose soap from Crabtree & Evelyn when I was young,” shares White. “It was the most expensive bar of soap I ever bought and I loved it right down to the last sliver of remaining soap.”

In her late twenties, White moved to the UK. “I just loved the candle and soap shops when I lived in the UK,” White states. “I was fascinated by the whole process and it became a huge love of mine.”

While she resided there for seven years, a new company was just starting to grow in the region, which inspired her to build something of her own.

“I ended up opening my own small candle business while I was in the UK,” White recounts. “Then we had kids, so I shelved my dreams for a spell, and never had the chance to go to Plymouth University like I dreamed of.”

After many ups and downs, White relocated to Windsor with her family and restarted on her journey of creating something special.

“I picked up my dream again and opened a factory this time supplying beauty products to individual companies and distributors across North America,” White states. “We closed it to expand to retail and my dream of one day opening a wonderful quirky soap shop became a reality.”

Her company, Swinging Soaps, offers a huge variety of bath bombs in so many shapes, over 53 soaps, Body Butter Creams, Bath Truffles, Sugar Scrubs, Milkshake, Donut and Gelato bath bombs, and soap cakes by the cake/slice. They also have a multiple amount of speciality creations to choose from.

You can’t help but smile when you walk through the doors to Swinging Soaps. Owner Jenny White says the reason for the bright pink look of her shop is to spread happiness and to make people feel like they are in a candy shop.

“We do so much here — bath soaps, bath bombs, gelato bath bombs — you name it we probably have it,” White expresses. “Even during this pandemic, we have been able to adjust to it very well by offering curbside pickup and delivery. But, I won’t lie — it has been hard on us, like many other businesses are experiencing.”

White says the coronavirus shutdown of businesses (mid-March to mid-May) came at an already challenging time for them. She is hoping when the COVID-19 restrictions are over, people in Windsor will want to learn about her company, what they do and take a trip out to see what they offer.

“Every business is special as it is someone’s dream,” White says.

“I have a very clear vision of how I see Swinging Soaps in my head and what it will look like when it’s finished. Despite this pandemic, it will become what I want it to be.”

White expresses that if she had any advice to other women in business in Windsor, it’s this: “Do not give up on the dream, even if you must close and come at it again from a different angle. Closing the location is just that, it does not mean an end of the dream.”

For more information about products available for curbside pickup or delivery, log on to: SwingingSoaps.com.

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THE PARENTING BIZ HEALTH MATTERS

Cooped Up And Nowhere To Go? Curb COVID-19 Cabin Fever With These Tips Supplied By The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit

W

ith changing work arrangements, schedules, and school closures, many families are struggling with being confined to the home without the regular assistance of family, friends and others that they may have come to rely upon.

Although this time can be difficult, there are many things families can do to ease feelings of “cabin fever” while still practicing physical distancing.

These tips for staying mentally and physically healthy at home can help to keep the kids busy, and make the most of your newfound time together.

The good weather is here so get your child outside exercising and in the fresh air as much as possible.

Have a ball — soccer, basketball, football, baseball — whatever your fancy just get out there and play with your kids and have a little fun!

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No Matter What Age You Are, Stay Active & Keep Moving

There are many ways to be physically

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active. Some examples of activities you can do to keep your mind and body active while at home include . . .

• Take an online exercise class or follow an exercise video • Jump rope • Walk or run up and down the stairs in your home or building • Clean your home or wash your car • Garden or do yard work • Practice yoga • Be creative and find new ways to play with your children using equipment like soccer balls, basketballs, or footballs • Play with your pets (play fetch or chase them around the yard) • Bring some chalk outside and play hopscotch or other fun jumping/skipping games with children on your driveway, or sidewalk • If you’re not self-isolating, it is okay to go outside for a walk, run, or bike ride.

Just remember to keep a minimum of two metres between yourself and others, and definitely avoid being active in large groups.

THE PARENTING BIZ

Spend Time With Food

Healthy eating is essential to keeping you feeling your best.

Family meals are still just as important now as they were before COVID-19 and it is up to parents to teach their kids food skills, like meal preparation and cooking.

Consider using this time to spend time in the kitchen with your family, planning and preparing healthy meals.

It’s not only a great way to curb cabin fever, but more importantly, it teaches children essential life skills.

Similar to the kitchen, a garden can serve as a second classroom for children and adults alike.

There are many benefits and skills learned from growing your own food, including increasing exposure to vegetables and fruit, encouraging physical activity, and teaching science, math, social sciences, patience and responsibility.

No backyard? No problem!

Plants can be grown indoors by a window, or outside in containers or in raised beds.

Cross It Off Your List

Have you been meaning to organize the basement or the kids’ toys, read a book, start a new hobby, or get back to an old one?

Now’s the time to consider doing just that!

Although times are uncertain, it seems we’ve been given an opportunity to slow down a bit; spend more quality time alone or with those we love, and cross things off the to-do list.

Sometimes just keeping busy can help us get through feelings of isolation.

If you live alone, be sure to connect with others using technology, such as calling or video conferencing.

Mental Health Check-in

The constant news about COVID-19 can

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be a source of anxiety and stress for many people, so be sure to look after your mental well-being.

Taking time throughout the day to practice self-care by getting adequate sleep, staying active, finding ways to have fun, keeping a routine, and staying in touch with your family and friends, can help you get through feeling cooped up, anxious or stressed.

It is also essential to talk to others, even children, to make sure they are ok with what’s happening currently.

Children, in particular, have had a lot of change lately with not being able to go to school or see their friends, and may be struggling more than you realize.

Remember if anyone in your family needs help, many organizations in Windsor Essex are still offering services via telephone or video conferencing.

For more information on mental health supports refer to their webpage: WECHU.org/cv/mental-health.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, in partnership with other agencies and health care providers, seeks to enable all Windsor and Essex County residents to be as healthy as possible. The unit is located at 1005 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor. For more tips and information on how to stay healthy while at home, visit their website: WECHU.org.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Healthy Smiles, Healthy Start . . .

Caring For Your Child’s Smile

By Jen Mayhew

A

s a mom, I want to protect my kids from everything. I know that’s not possible . . . but I can try, LOL! There are things that I can protect them from — such as tooth decay. Oral disease is more than 90% preventable and yet the oral health component of the Canadian Chronic Health Measures Survey in 2010 found “periodontal (gum) diseases and dental caries (tooth decay) are the most prevalent chronic diseases, affecting children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. In fact, dental caries affect 60% to 90% of schoolchildren and the vast majority of adults . . .”

Decay rates in children are much too high and are getting higher.

And baby teeth matter! They allow a child to eat. They hold space and act as a guide for erupting adult teeth.

Baby teeth contribute to developing speech patterns and are the foundation of the face and the airways. They are also necessary for healthy self-esteem.

Children who have decay are often

uncomfortable or in pain. This discomfort has been found to hinder a child’s development socially and otherwise.

Dental pain can contribute to “choosey” or picky eating due to discomfort and difficulty chewing.

Cavities are a contributing factor to poor overall health. This includes susceptibility to illness like viruses and bacteria.

Decay can interfere with digestion and can also be a sign of bacterial imbalances due to other systemic illnesses.

As well, oral disease can also indicate breathing and airway disorders. We need to approach oral health from a proactive whole body focus.

Decay does not only affect the teeth, it affects the child.

When dental professionals work together with you as the caregiver they can prevent oral disease and establish healthy habits for a lifetime.

Here are a few simple daily tips to give your children a healthy start.

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Children need a healthy nutrient-dense diet Choose healthy whole foods that are nutrient dense. Our bodies need vitamins and minerals that are necessary to develop to our potential and protect us from disease. Limit processed and refined foods.

The frequency of food intake is a big factor in preventing oral disease and, let’s face it, little ones snack all day.

Choosing detergent snacks between meals that are firm and fibrous are best. These foods like celery, carrots and apples are cleaning our teeth as we eat them and helping our body produce saliva.

Tooth-safe snacks are foods like whole veggies, nuts, seeds, whole grains (visible seediness), and whole fruits. Cheese and unsweetened yogurt are also safe. Try to limit or avoid added sugars in all forms. If you're giving a “treat” pair it with a meal for safety.

Hydrate — choose water When breast milk or formula is no longer the main source of nutrition, water should be the only “on demand” beverage for kids.

Milk (if given) should be offered with meals or after meals. Not in a sippy cup if possible. I recommend avoiding juice or other sweetened beverages altogether.

Drinking water all day and rinsing often is the best option for teeth and your health.

THE PARENTING BIZ (with your mouth), or kissing on the mouth.

Especially if you or your spouse have experienced many cavities.

That’s it junior, show those pearly whites for the camera! Good oral hygiene begins at a young age and a 12 month healthy smile visit is essential to introduce your child to the dental environment.

Drinking enough water also ensures a healthy amount of saliva is available, which is essential for healthy teeth and digestion.

Never put a child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup containing anything other than water.

Remember cavities are contagious Babies aren’t born with the bacteria that cause tooth decay. This bacteria is passed to your child from parents and siblings.

Avoid sharing utensils, cleaning a pacifier

Control bacteria with healthy well timed oral hygiene habits Establish oral hygiene habits like tooth brushing and flossing right away. Brushing your little ones’ teeth should start as soon as they erupt, with a soft compact toothbrush.

Think of tooth brushing as wiping clean the surface of the teeth. I recommend brushing twice daily — in the morning upon waking and again before bed. Mom and dad need to assist or provide this care as children under eight years do not have the dexterity or the attention span to be effective.

Bedtime brushing is crucial in prevention of tooth decay. Don’t forget to floss. As soon as there are two teeth touching that space needs to be cleaned. This can be made easier by using a flossing aid.

Find a dental home for your little one by their first birthday Just like a well baby exam at your doctor’s office, a 12 month healthy smile visit will guide you through any difficulties you may be having and mediate any potential risk factors that your child may have.

The 12 month visit is essential in

introducing your child to the dental environment, providing you with the tools and resources you need to care for them and makes early intervention possible.

Early detection leaves space for reversal of cavities and/or treatment when it is small.

This visit can also identify developmental issues like tongue ties and lip ties, speech concerns, or airway obstruction and make appropriate referrals at a crucial time.

Waiting until a child is older leaves the door open for irreversible damage that needs painful traumatic treatment.

Prevention is pain free, affordable and the healthiest option.

Embrace Dental Hygiene, 174 Sandwich Street South in Amherstburg, is one of Windsor Essex’s only independent dental hygiene practices. Its owner Registered Dental Hygienist Jen Mayhew (also a mom!) has been in the dental field for almost 20 years. Her integrative approach to dental care combines diet, habit, lifestyle modifications with science based treatment. Offering oral health assessments, cavity prevention, pH, management, dental cleaning and more. Embrace Dental Hygiene also houses a fully stocked Oral Health Boutique with all natural oral care products and tools.

Learn more at: EmbraceDentalHygiene.com.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Tools To Help Cope With Youth Digital Dependency In Our Increasing Online World

By Janay Warren

O

ne of the many impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the increase in technology use as a means of connection and entertainment.

While there are fantastic games, learning tools, video chat apps and more that has made physical distancing more bearable, a question one may ask is — how much is too much?

The struggle for perhaps the majority of parents or caregivers starts when they ask their youth to take a break from their electronics. This request is often met with arguments and resistance.

Why does this happen and how can we help these youngsters who are struggling to take a break?

There are some practical tips that can assist someone who may be experiencing digital dependency.

One of the first steps is to assess the extent of use. A way of doing this is to record or log the amount of time spent with digital sources. This can often highlight the extent of overuse or assess the “balance” or technology time.

An important balance applicable to everyone is the time spent online versus offline. If you see the scale is tipped in favour of being more online than not, this could be a signal that change is necessary.

Sit down with your youth and create a plan or a schedule. When you create the schedule, it is vital that there is youth involvement, otherwise there may not be engagement or openness.

Another technique is to make plans to do something fun together and to ensure you involve other members of the household.

Being out of school, separated from friends, and then asking to also separate from online peers is not easy for youth.

Making plans that include elements of social connectedness may make the process of “disconnecting” easier.

In the end, it is important to establish limits and guidelines. Being firm and adhering to these limits and guidelines is the most important thing that can be said when it comes to curtailing technology use.

We recognize this is no easy feat, especially when COVID-19 has left you at home with your youth all day, looking to fill their time and avoid hearing the words, “I’m bored”.

Yes, it is a challenging time. There may be difficult days full of outbursts and screaming, and at times it will just feel easier to give in than to follow

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through. However, the more you stay firm, the quicker the outbursts will fade.

Concerns about addiction, dependence or overuse of tech is something HôtelDieu Grace Healthcare’s (HDGH) Centre for Problem Gambling and Digital Dependency (CPGDD) hears quite often.

Regarding technology, there is no official diagnostic tool that will definitively say whether someone has a digital dependency.

Instead, the counselling staff at the CPGDD uses an individualized and holistic approach that analyzes how someone may be negatively affected by technology.

When working with younger children, family or caregiver involvement is imperative to creating and maintaining change.

Recognizing the importance of caregiver engagement, the CPGDD collaborated with colleagues at HDGH’s Regional Children’s Centre to create the “Heads Up” program.

Heads Up is a five week workshop that assists parents and caregivers when working through challenges around digital dependency. The staff will help facilitate plans such as establishing and setting technology limits, along with helping to address any potential negative behaviours that may surface as a result.

After taking these concepts into consideration, you may be able to justify whether or not your feelings about your child’s digital dependency are valid. And if so, you can use these tips to help ease any “tech-stress” within your home.

If you find that you or your loved one is struggling, CPGDD has counsellors available to help you through this process.

Services are available for individuals, parents or caregivers 16 years and older.

Learn more at: HDGH.org.

Janay Warren, M.S.W.,R.S.W., CPGC,C.C.A.C., is a counsellor at the Centre For Problem Gambling and Digital Dependency (CPGDD).

She first started with this program in 2005 as a part-time support worker in the three week Residential Treatment Centre and began her career thinking she would be working exclusively with substance use. Yet when the opportunity to work at CPGDD presented itself, she took the leap and hasn’t looked back. Working at CPGDD has allowed her to meet some truly wonderful individuals who happened into rough times. It has also allowed her to grow as a professional after starting as a support worker, then returning to school and now working as a counsellor for the past two years. It’s truly been a rewarding experience for Janay to work with local individuals and families.

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LET 'S TALK ABOUT . . .

If A Local Digital Currency Is Right For Windsor

By Harry Lauder

M

oney flows to the centre. It is an economic reality that throughout history has always been true. The wealth of nations and empires is inevitably drawn from the outer provinces to the centre of power.

It is said to be the price we pay for the benefits of living in a great society, but there are times when the payments exacted outweigh the benefits.

Whatever happens, after COVID-19 finally releases its grip on our community, it won’t be business as usual. Social distancing protocols and lockdowns have done their work. Measures intended to protect us have come with a cost. Hard times have arrived, but the wealth of our community continues to be drained away.

Is there a way to stop that? Can we keep the wealth produced by our community here where it is needed?

We are living in interesting times, and novel solutions may be required to set us back on a path to prosperity. Has the time arrived for a complementary currency to be considered?

A complementary currency is a medium of exchange intended as an alternative to the national currency. It is not a new idea.

Complementary currencies have existed in communities across Europe and the United States for decades. And in 2018 the City of Calgary introduced Canada’s first local digital currency, Calgary Dollars (CalgaryDollars.ca).

Calgary Dollars Manager Sierra Love indicates, “Calgary Dollars is both a program and a currency. There are currently $67,268 Calgary Dollars in circulation and 1,425 digital users. As we build collaborations with communities, organizations, and the City, participation increases. Having a strong link with the local government is important. For example, our businesses can pay 50% of their base business licences in Calgary Dollars.”

A 2019 survey of Calgary Dollars users found the following: 86% have been

encouraged to buy more locally; 70% somewhat agreed, agreed, or strongly agreed that they are more involved in their community; 60% somewhat agreed, agreed, or strongly agreed that they have established relationships of trust due to Calgary Dollars.

Love points out, “Our program is multifaceted, our goals being community building, community economic development, local resilience, and sustainability.”

Participating merchants set the amount of Calgary Dollars they will accept as payment for their goods or services. This amount can be as low as 10% or as high as 100%.

Calgary resident Gordon Johansen is the owner of The Sentry Box, which sells board games, collectibles, and fantasy items. He is an enthusiastic participant.

When asked if the merchants in Windsor would benefit from something like Calgary Dollars, Johansen had this to say: “Since I have nothing I can say that is negative about it, I would guess that most other merchants would benefit if they set it up right. The trick is that you have to set your allowable percentage paid in local currency to a level that you are comfortable with. We allow 50%, for example, which is 10% more than my cost. It is good advertising for the business.”

So, would “Windsor Dollars” free our community from the malaise that we are currently enduring? Proponents of such parallel currencies would say yes and cite several advantages to their use.

These include . . .

1. Stop the flood of money, leaving the community into absentee bank accounts.

2. Ensure that money circulates to local enterprises and people.

3. Promote resilience in the community, protecting it from global instability.

4. Reduce the energy footprint of the community by supporting local goods and production.

That all sounds great, but would Windsor Dollars provide any of those benefits in practice?

Pat O’Halloran, owner of Allegra Marketing Print Mail Windsor West (1800 Huron Church Road, Unit 100 in Windsor; AllegraWindsorEssex.com) has heard those claims before. They don’t ring true to him.

Allegra has been in business since 1987.

Pat joined the company in 1994 as a Centre Manager before switching his energies and expertise to direct sales.

Marketing graphic provided by Calgary Dollars.

In 2018 Patrick and his wife Teresa took a giant leap and purchased the fullservice marketing, print service, and sign company.

When asked to share his thoughts on digital currency, O’Halloran comments: “To give some background, we had used something similar when we had a location in Troy, Michigan. It was called trade dollars. The issue with trade dollars was not all businesses participated. You wound up going back and using the services of the business that had your trade dollars. The accounting was also very challenging.”

He continues with, “There are other issues, but too many to mention here.

Additionally, for my business, at least a large percentage of my business is government work (college, university, hospital, elementary and secondary schools, federal government) and I would not be able to use any of the Windsor Dollars.”

A complementary currency is not something he considers worth pursuing unless it could meet precise criteria.

First, it would need to be fully convertible into Canadian dollars at any financial institution.

Second, it would need to be accepted at all establishments for any purchase.

These qualities are not a feature of any non-national currency in existence at this time.

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Brian Yeomans, Chair of the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (website: DowntownWindsor.ca), also has several concerns about the idea.

When asked to contribute his thoughts on the notion, he offered this: “The concept of Windsor (or any city, for that matter) Dollars, is intriguing. My challenges with it would be the substantial capital in its creation, the expectation of all Windsor businesses to participate, and the tracking of it. There are other factors to consider as well such as, what if the company is not Windsor-based, but just had a satellite location here? Would they exclude themselves? Where would tourists or visitors buy these dollars?

I believe the best plan of action would be to promote local, advertise amongst our local communities, and use the money that would have gone to creating a difficult currency for promotion and marketing of the riches that Windsor has to offer.”

So, does that put an end to the discussion? Perhaps not.

Critics of complementary currencies point to the implementation of such schemes, not their intentions. How they are created, used, and administered are all legitimate concerns that directly affect the success or failure of such an enterprise.

However, a complementary currency is not much different from the customer reward programs that corporate stores use to attract consumer spending.

The success of those programs would suggest there is some hope for a local currency.

Versatility and ease of use would be needed to attract local shoppers. If Windsor Dollars were widely accepted and as easy to use as a points card, they might have a chance.

Participation by the City of Windsor would also make a difference. Could Windsor Dollars be used to purchase Transit Windsor bus tokens? Could they be used to pay municipal taxes? (City council would probably require major time to debate this issue thoroughly so best not to get too excited about this one!)

There are plenty of questions and very few answers at this point. The only thing certain is that significant changes are on the horizon, and we have a choice.

We can choose to manage those changes, or we can do what we have always done and allow those changes to manage us.

Time is short — let’s talk about it.

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TAKE THE LEAD

MP Irek Kusmierczyk — Leading A Political Path

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

W

hen I met Irek Kusmierczyk he was organizing the First Robotics competitions to encourage youth into STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

He impressed me with his intelligence, integrity, follow-through, ability to build partnerships, self-less service and incredible passion for politics.

After working on the Herb Gray Parkway (species-at-risk remediation) and joining WEtech Alliance, he served as a City of Windsor Councillor (Ward 7) for over six years.

Kusmierczyk, our Member of Parliament for Windsor-Tecumseh was recently appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to serve as Parliamentary Secretary for the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, which is at the centre of the government response and support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His education began with a combined Bachelor of Journalism/History at Carleton University in Ottawa.

“I wanted to be the next great foreign correspondent like Anna Maria Tremonti,” he recalls. “One summer working at a newspaper in Poland, I walked 700 km in 18 days on a pilgrimage through the region,” adding “Villagers took us in or let us sleep in their barn.”

Next he completed an MSc degree at the London School of Economics (UK) followed by an MA degree at the Jagiellonian University (Poland) on a Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship. Kusmierczyk worked for a year at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Warsaw during the political reunification of Europe.

Finally, he earned his PhD in Political Science from Vanderbilt University (United States) in 2010. His dissertation focused

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In October 2019 Irek Kusmierczyk was elected to parliament in Ottawa and currently sits on two committees — Government Operations and Estimates as well as the Special Committee on the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo courtesy of the Office of Irek Kusmierczyk, M.P., Windsor-Tecumseh.

on cross-border cooperation between governments around the Great Lakes basin.

When I asked where his passion to serve came from, his answer reflected the values influenced by Rotary.

“I’ve been lucky to be part of great teams that work hard and are driven by service above self,” he expresses. “Whether building a community garden, helping a company grow or drafting good policy. Nothing beats the feeling of being part of a good team.”

Kusmierczyk first became interested in politics when his family emigrated from Poland to Canada in 1983 as political refugees.

His father was active in the Solidarity Trade Union fighting for the rights of others.

After his father was imprisoned, he reveals, “Like bread and butter, politics was never far from the kitchen table,” adding, “My parents had the courage to leave everything to come to

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Canada to give us a good education and life.”

He is proud of their commitment to community service.

“My family always felt this powerful need to give back to Canada for opening the door and providing us safe harbour,” he states.

Representing Canadians is a fitting way to honour his parents.

His leadership advice?

“It’s a cliché, but you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take,” he replies.

Kusmierczyk believes part of success is accepting setbacks as essential to growth.

He encourages people to “Jump in — you’ll learn how to swim very quickly, and it’s incredibly gratifying once you see that your work is helping residents and improving quality of life in your community.”

Communication, listening and being open and transparent with residents is essential, according to Kusmierczyk.

As for balancing his work and home life with his wife Shauna, a hospital Nurse Practitioner, who also works part-time in long-term care and flies to Pelee Island to run clinics, he had this to say: “We’ve learned to appreciate the little things like cooking together or sitting outside with a coffee. Keeping busy helps our time apart and our Constituency Office team is passionate about helping our community.

I am always talking to residents, listening to concerns, whether in Ottawa or at home.”

The future is bright for Kusmierczyk, although he says he doesn’t focus too far ahead and tries to make the most of each day.

He wraps up our interview with an old adage: “Man makes plans and God smiles.”

Keep up with Irek and his team via: Facebook.com/TeamIrek.

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is an award winning leadership consultant and former Director of Leadership Windsor/Essex, Principal, Chief Communications Officer and business owner with over 30 years of experience in education, administration, mentoring, consulting and community leadership. If you know a leader in the community to profile here in this column, please send an email to: Sherrilynn@BizXmagazine.com.

THE WAY IT WAS

Patterns Of Honour . . .

Unfolding Hearts To Hands Story And Photo By Andrea Grimes

M

ilitary culture produces men and women of our Canadian Armed Forces who put the needs of others before their own.

Although war produces lasting scars, it’s not the worst part of military service. The transition from war to home, has been known to turn many lives inside out.

For many returning home from their tours of duty, their lives begin to unravel even before they walk through the front door.

They carry with them guilt, anger, fear, and isolation; grief, moral injury, and feelings that they don’t know who they are anymore; that they will never be able to “measure up”.

While adjusting to civilian life, some may experience feelings of being “outside of themselves”. They try to “talk about it,” but does that result in being bitter or getting better?

The medical field tells us that recovery is possible in terms of returning to a semblance of normalcy in life, however, the experiences of combat, and the trauma it causes, has been known to present challenges for our Veterans as they prepare to reintegrate into the life of their communities.

Understandably, talking about what they are bringing back home with them just doesn’t happen often enough.

The late WWII Veteran Stanley Scislowski, (see page: WindsorPublicLibrary.com/?page id=40221) often shared his experiences of what he went though … over there.

“While recovering in hospital in England, a physiatrist told me to keep my mind occupied — to write about what I had experienced and what I was struggling with — to give myself

the time to heal,” said Scislowski during one of his Legion presentations.

Scislowski took the doctor’s suggestions to heart and at the age of 73 he published his first book, “Not All of Us Were Brave”.

He indicated: “It was just the therapy I needed. If it wasn’t for that doctor’s advice, I wouldn’t have survived everything that life threw at me all these years. My advice to our men and women of our Canadian Armed Forces, who are bringing home things they don’t understand, is to open up and talk about what is going on inside of them. To keep it all bottled up will drive them to the darkest corners and they will be unable to get back up and on with their lives.”

Communities all across Canada respect courage and bravery spent in the name of freedom. As such, society moves forward to “take up the cause” with the ethical and moral responsibility needed to support those returning from military service who may be struggling to reintegrate into the life of their communities.

This social contract is a gift that a grateful nation gives in exchange for a commitment and dedication to serving Canada.

Throughout southwestern Ontario, there are countless numbers of dedicated volunteers who are committed to “giving back” to our Veterans. One such organization is Quilts Of Valour — Canada Society, (QOVC; visit: QuiltsOfValour.ca).

Janet Bergeron, QOVC Regional Representative says, “In 2019, we presented 91 ‘quilts of hugs’ to Veterans throughout Windsor and Essex County. Each quilt is made ‘just for them’ with love, respect and gratitude

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Shown is a Quilt Of Valour presentation to Korean War Veteran, Chuck Milks on December 14, 2016 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 255 with Pauline Gaudette QOVC (left) dedicated quilter and Janet Bergeron, QOVC Regional Representative.

for what they gave to Canada. We attach our label on each quilt, which features the hand-written date of the quilt presentation and the Veteran’s name.”

Windsor resident, Dona Parent served in Germany with the 1st Canadian Guards and in Cyprus as a NATO Peacekeeper.

Parent says, “I was very humbled when Janet Bergeron came to the house to present me with my Quilt Of Valour in 2018. To this day, my heartfelt thanks go to our Quilt Of Valour volunteers.”

Bergeron adds, “Our quilts represent our Veterans’ commitment to duty. Their courage and valour comes through every stitch . . . patterns of honour: unfolding hearts to hands.”

As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the “Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal” and the “Governor General’s Medal” recognizing her volunteer service to Veterans and military families of our Canadian Armed Forces, as well as with military family service-support organizations to include, North Wall Riders Association, Windsor Veterans Memorial Service Committee, Military Institute of Windsor, the Royal Canadian Naval Association, the Korean War Veterans Association and the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association.

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OF THE MONTH

Planting The Seeds Of Success With The Bloomin’ Gardener

By Dave Hall

I

n the more than 20 years that Mike and Kelly Colasanti have operated The Bloomin’ Gardener, it’s safe to say they’ve never experienced an off-season such as the one that just ended.

“The times have changed, that’s for sure,” says Mike, just a few weeks after re-opening for the current season in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Along with hundreds of other small businesses across Essex County, the Colasanti’s have had to make major changes in their retail operations to keep their customers and staff safe.

“In addition to making these changes, we had to make sure we could hold on to our products, which were slowly maturing, as we waited for government approval to open our doors again,” explains Mike. He adds, “We don’t grow everything we sell, but our growth schedules and product arrivals are timed for a certain opening period so that everything is in perfect shape by the time we open for the season.”

Kelly Colasanti, Mike’s wife and business partner, admits it’s been a challenging off-season, but says, “We are happy to re-open. It’s what we do and it’s what we are very passionate about.”

With thousands of flowers, plants, shrubs and bushes in stock, the Colasanti’s would normally open for spring sales in mid-April.

However, this year, based on provincial government restrictions for most businesses, they were permitted to re-open in mid-May with a whole new set of rules for their customers, according to COVID-19 guidelines.

They include the mandatory wearing of face masks and customers must also remain six feet apart to abide by physical distancing rules.

The nursery’s washrooms are off-limits, children and pets are not allowed, only two members per family are allowed to shop and there are rules regarding the number of customers allowed at any one time.

Instead of asking customers to stand in line before being admitted, the Colasanti’s decided to ask their customers to wait comfortably in their vehicles before entering the greenhouse and sales area.

And in recognition of the work and sacrifices made by seniors and first responders during this pandemic, those two groups are able to shop from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

All of the changes and special hours are dependent upon further developments in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

“We have two doctors in our family so we fully understand the importance of getting this right,” says Mike. “We think we’ve come up with a good system, which allows for efficient customer flow while at the same time keeping everyone safe.”

Since opening their doors in 1997, the Colasanti’s have supervised

Take your business online!

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Kelly and Mike Colasanti, owners of The Bloomin’ Gardener, pose in their greenhouse surrounded by scores of plants, flowers and hanging baskets they sell each year.

Photo by Rod Denis.

slow, steady growth and now the business at 6673 8th Concession in Oldcastle encompasses 45,000 square feet of greenhouse space and a further 30,000 square feet of space for outdoor production.

“We could have grown larger much faster, but sometimes bigger creates more headaches,” comments Mike whose parents own and operate Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens in Ruthven. “At our current size, we are able to maintain a high level of quality control, while at the same time, offering our customers a vast variety of products.”

Kelly points out that they grow just about all their plants and flowers on-site, as well as designing and producing as many as 20,000 hanging baskets every year.

“We bring in trees, shrubs and perennials from the Toronto area and some tropical plants and flowers from Florida,” she also mentions. “We also have a big line of pottery, cement urns and other landscaping features, which we bring in as well.”

Colasanti believes the current health crisis may help businesses, such as his, as people decide to nest, stay close to home and work on their own properties and gardens instead of taking vacations.

“I’m anticipating a greater emphasis on landscaping, plants and flowers as people slowly emerge from this pandemic, but aren’t confident enough just yet in travelling,” he remarks. “If they are going to be spending more time close to home with family and friends, I believe they are going to put more energy into their homes and gardens.”

Repeat customers are the lifeblood of any successful business and the Colasanti’s are grateful to their loyal customers who started to come back as soon as the doors opened.

“We have a great following because we offer more than just plants,” Kelly states. “It’s a great place to just wander around, look for something new and listen to the music.”

For further information, visit: TheBloominGardener.com.

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