Biz X magazine Nov-Dec 2019

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION

Year 22

“H2O — When Your Ship Comes In” OCTOBER November/December 2019 2019

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It’s Time To Welcome On Board The 2019 Biz X Award Nominees & Winners In Our Annual Awards Issue

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The Toast Of The Town!

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

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© Can Stock Photo/Netkoff

Annual Biz X Awards Edition

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table of contents

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 volume 22 • issue 10

“H22O0 — When Your Ship Comes In”

4€ Funny Stuff 5€ From The Publisher: Awards Season Is Here 6€Editorial Viewpoint: Could Windsor’s New Auditor General Function Be Smoke And Mirrors?

€Courtesy of a motion from rookie City of Windsor Councillor Jim Morrison (top photo supplied by Jim Morrison), Windsor is back in the Auditor General (AG) game. Columnist Alan Halberstadt applauds Morrison while exposing possible pitfalls in the new model and wondering how independent and courageous the new AG will actually be.

8€ Front Lines 13€ Heard On The Street 14€Newsflash 16€ Dates To Remember 17 € Save The Date: Christmas & Valentine’s Day In Amherstburg 58€Take The Lead: Loretta Stoyka-Henderson, ATHENA Scholarship Fund Windsor 60 H € ave A Cup Of Joe With Joe: 10 Years Later With Leesa St. Pierre, Owner of LD Media 61€Accounting Counts: Potential Risks To Your Enterprise 62€Ask The Experts: A Simple Way To Clean Up At Home 63€Portfolio Corner: The Cold Hard Truth Of Four Financial Mistakes 64€ Award Spotlight: Leamington District Chamber of Commerce’s “Business Excellence Awards” € €Celebrating its 25th anniversary the chamber presented their awards in early October. Present at the ceremony at the

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Leamington Portuguese Club were Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald and Councillor Paul Tiessen (shown in middle photo by Rod Denis). See all the winners in a group shot and a few individual ones as well in our photo spread.

68€ Biz X Was There 70€ Food For Thought: Honey-Bee Ham Co. Changes It Up 71 Lifestyle Matters: MADD Canada’s “Project Red Ribbon” Campaign 72€ THE PARENTING BIZ: Smile For The Camera! € €Holiday photographs can be as much fun as you want them to be, it’s just a matter of relaxing during the short photo shoots by professional photographers. Pictured is a great example of a perfect holiday shot (taken by Clarissa Marie Photography at her studio), of the Lauzon children — four year old Easton, two year old Irelynne, and six year old Layken. With the holidays right around the corner, local photographers and businesses offer their advice to families to make sure your annual Christmas card for family, friends, colleagues and neighbours is the best one yet!

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79€ XX Files: Sarah Dorakofski & Jenne DeLuca, Solely Foot Care Inc. 80€From The Bookshelf : A Retired Police Detective Writer Plus Our Youngest Author To Date 81€ The Way It Was: The Salvation Army’s “Christmas Kettle Campaign” 82€ Biz Of The Month: Windsor Port Authority & Prosperity Place

ON THE COVER —“The Toast Of The Town!” — 18

Raise your glass to all the successful local business professionals and celebrate! Our 22nd annual Biz X Awards edition features a nautical theme: “H2O — When Your Ship Comes In.” It’s a perfect business phrase, but we put a little twist on it as it also may mean, for 24 of the 272 award nominees, that his/her ship may have come in by winning a 2019 Biz X Award!

MODELS: From left: Bryan Dennison, Scotty Thompson, Linda Garrisi-Grivas and John Philip Llames. Linda is Owner of Angel Face Makeup Artistry (see “Lin Angel” on Facebook) and a part-time model. Male models were supplied by Jank Media & Design, (JankMediaDesign.ca).

CLOTHING: Our cover men look dapper in the Biz X Award theme colour of navy in Ike Behar tuxedos with a black satin lapel supplied by Collins Formal Wear, 6000 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor. This is the tuxedo style the Biz X staff, Award Judges and celebrity presenters were outfitted in for the Awards Gala on November 15. Linda models a gorgeous indigo blue sheer Frank Lyman one shoulder illusion mermaid gown with tulip bottom.

She also wears crystal chandelier earrings by Merx. Dress and earrings were supplied by Anne’s On The Avenue, 1695 Manning Road, Tecumseh.

PROPS: The champagne crystal glasses were supplied by Designs by Diane (DesignsByDiane.org). Thank you to Owner Diane Spencler Glover for her assistance with also helping to arrange the photo location. Biz X sends a special shout out to Frank Natonski for allowing us to climb aboard his 38 foot Sea Ray motorized yacht docked at Holiday Harbour Marina in LaSalle for this cover shot.

PHOTOGRAPHER/ARTWORK: Rod Denis/RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com.

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from the publisher

“I’m The King Of The World”

By Deborah Jones

Who wouldn’t want to yell this famous phrase from the movie “Titanic” after winning a big award? Of course, earning an award is only a small reward for all the hard work an individual, company or organization has done. Obviously the biggest payback is repeat business from customers/clients or even helping the local community prosper.

However, it is still a great feeling to actually win.

This is one of the reasons why our annual awards Biz X Awards edition was created as we are proud of our region’s businesses and organizations and our nominees too.

This issue and our accompanying gala is a massive undertaking, but it’s definitely worth it.

We enjoy receiving all the emails and comments from our readers and supporters about how important the Biz X Awards are to the community. And I love to hear the winners giving their acceptance speeches on stage!

You are now reading our 220th issue, which is one of our biggest in pages, tied only with our 2009 Awards edition.

So, since we are in a celebration mood, we want to kick start our editorial with some great news in the local tourism industry — and that’s always good for business!

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) has won the “Tourism Marketing and Travel Media Award of Excellence Award” — Tourism Marketing Campaign Over $50k at the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario’s (TIAO) “Ontario Tourism Summit”, presented during the “Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence” on October 30, 2019 in Collingwood.

“We wanted to connect with visitors on an emotional and physical level. With our attractions being experience based, we wanted to ask the question ‘Where Can W.E. Take You’ (a branding campaign launched in April 2018)?” says Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex. “We developed

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The TWEPI team after the awards ceremony from left: Kris Racine, Director of Partnership Programs; Lynnette Bain, Vice President of Destination Development; Gordon Orr, CEO and Jason Toner, Director of Marketing and Communications. Photo courtesy of TWEPI.

and created a marketing campaign across all platforms including a revamped website, all focusing on high impact imagery to truly showcase the region to its full potential.”

This award clearly recognizes TWEPI’s ongoing efforts to bolster the image and economy of the region by developing, marketing, and promoting our destination in cooperation within a united tourism industry.

Fantastic! And now, I hope you enjoy reading more about all the other award winning businesses, organizations and Windsor Essex residents in our November/ December magazine.

Happy holidays and we’ll be back soon with our January 2020 edition!

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editorial viewpoint

Don’t Anticipate Miracles From City Auditor General

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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fter close to two decades of political football and dirty deeds, City of Windsor Council recently voted unanimously to hire an “independent” Auditor General.

Wonders never cease!

I can say that as a former City Councillor who was eye witness to the grisly demise of three top auditors — City Auditor Mike Dunbar, Lead Auditor Angela Berry, and Auditor General (AG) Todd Langlois, who was cut loose after a bizarre closed door Council meeting orchestrated by former Mayor Eddie Francis.

That was 2012, when Langlois sued the city for wrongful dismissal (I opposed the firing). Council has been haggling over the AG issue ever since. That is until September 23, when the current bunch decided to adopt a hybrid watchdog model, which apparently has been working for Markham, Ontario.

The operative word here is independent.

Even the brave Councillor who made the decisive motion acknowledges there’s a hitch.

“We have to clarify independent,” pronounces rookie Ward 10 Councillor Jim Morrison, the retired bank manager who made the hiring of an AG a key plank in his 2018 election campaign The model Council chose, after an exhaustive debate, is different than the one that failed in the past — which was an internal employee with an off-site office, and a small staff of city employees.

The new model sees the function of Auditor General outsourced to a public accounting firm, PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC), with a designated person from that firm appointed as Auditor General.

Conflict of interest? Just asking.

That person is Christopher O’Connor, who has managed the Windsor file from his London office. PWC has been doing internal audits for the city, directed by city administration, since 2013.

Morrison describes these high level audits as being “just too general and devoted to risk avoidance.” PWC reports quarterly to Council, and as I remember, they induce slumber.

A disingenuous Mayor Drew Dilkens waived these piles of audits in front of

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prospective voters during debate on his campaign for re-election, claiming Council didn’t need an Auditor General.

Now that it has a real one, Morrison says there will be a difference.

The Auditor General will map out his own work plan for the year and bring it to Council for approval in a public meeting. O’Connor can oversee his experienced PWC partners to carry out the plan and conceivably turn over a few rocks.

“I will be looking for a higher level of independence.” ~ Councillor Jim Morrison The AG will have the legislative powers to access all city records, and subpoena witnesses. Reportedly, the oath swearing option has never been used by the Auditor Generals at the four other cities in Ontario, excluding Toronto, who retain one. But, Morrison says simply the threat of being put under oath “can be scary to a lot of people.”

Heaven forbid, there could even be value for money audits of affiliated agencies like EnWin Utilities. This was on Langlois’ agenda before the Francis axe came down.

Council has always had the prerogative of ordering deep-dive, value for money audits on a department or agency, but has never cared to do so. It will be interesting to see if the fur flies should O’Connor call for one or more.

The annual cost of the Auditor General office and function has drawn skepticism since it has been rolled into the $300,000 the city now pays PWC annually for multiple internal audits. Dilkens used the bargain price as a lame reason to wiggle out of his long-held opposition to hiring an AG. Taxpayers are left to wonder how watered down the entire audit package will be.

Morrison retorts that it’s his intention to reduce the number of “vanilla” internal audits and ersatz quarterly reports to Council to devote more time to AG audits, hopefully with a bite to them.

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with the firm by the time the current contract expires in April.

“There’s a danger to make it the same as what we’ve got,” he warns. “I will be looking for a higher level of independence.”

Morrison believes the new contract will end up costing more than $300,000 a year, but don’t expect breathtaking delays and fiascos such as occurred when Dunbar and Berry conducted audits on the construction of the 400 City Hall Square building and the Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) Arena.

The 400 building audit took well over a year to complete when administration very belatedly turned over 11 boxes of files. The city, the audit revealed, saved money on the WFCU budget by getting graveyard shift janitors to paint the interior walls.

Before that Dunbar used colourful language to describe his audit findings on the city’s fleet division, released in 2008 after a two year probe of records. It turned out that retired and even deceased workers possessed passwords providing access to the city’s fuel pumps.

The media had a field day with “dead men pumping gas.” Administration didn’t find these bon mots funny. Speculation remains that fear of embarrassment built up the resistance to hiring another AG, for so long.

Morrison concedes that an AG will not be spending a lot of time on bureaucratic pratfalls, such as putting the wrong name on the new Sandwich Public Library at a cost of $51,000, or installing fake synthetic ice on the Charles Clark Square rink, at a cost of $55,000.

He might be more interested scrutinizing why the library cost $5.5 million, more than twice the original estimate.

AG advocates at the September 23 meeting, bemoaned the spending of $750,000 to rebuild an antique trolley, $3 million on holiday lights in Jackson Park, construction of the money sapping Adventure Bay Family Water Park and the $50,000 annual gift to the “Detroit Grand Prix”.

Morrison makes it clear that an AG will not comment on the value of bonehead political legacy projects such as those. He told me he opposes the holiday lights and Grand Prix spending.

“It should be noted that the Municipal Act does not provide the same nature of independence for a municipal Auditor General as is the case of the provincial and federal Auditors General,” the September 23 Council report declared.

Morrison is an earnest, common sense man and deserves credit for navigating political minefields to gain approval for his motion. What remains to be seen is whether the exercise will turn out to be smoke and mirrors.

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FRONTLINES In early October Signature Tributes Event Centre, a division of division of Families First (funeral homes), opened its doors in South Windsor at 3310 Dougall Avenue.

“Looking to the future we have evolved our offerings to better serve families and our brand to reflect our corporate culture and philosophy,” states Families First President, Brian Parent. “We now have a space for the community to gather for all types of events.”

The 3,500 sq. ft. facility provides a place for families and friends to join together to celebrate, grieve, heal, learn, and share in a customizable venue that adapts from an intimate setting to hosting up to 180 people.

It also gives the general public a place to heal, gather, educate, celebrate and conduct business.

The investment in the concept, building and the extended team was created in direct response to a need in our community.

“We have designed Signature Tributes to comfortably welcome people to tell their story and it is also suitable for community events, corporate parties and educational sessions,” adds Jen Wells, Vice President of Families First. “The beautiful new event centre provides a space for not only the grieving, but for celebrating any occasion.”€ Whether it is a celebration, reception, formal gathering, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, corporate event or special private event, the two halls feature state-of-the-art technology and an emphasis on hospitality.

Signature Tributes Event Centre Facility Opens In Windsor

Signature Tributes Event Centre, a division of Families First, was created to serve the Windsor Essex community by providing a place to meet, celebrate, learn and grow.

Photo courtesy of Douglas Marketing Group.

Signature Tributes also includes an onsite meeting space that is perfect for corporate training, seminars and presentations.

For further information or to set up a tour of the facility refer to the website: SignatureTributes.ca.

Good Things Come In Vans LTL Packages After more than 40 years in the courier and logistics industry, Paul van Watteghem, Owner of Vans LTL Courier and Logistics, knows a thing or two about saving clients money, while at the same time protecting his bottom line.

While many rivals in the industry charge customers by the individual package, Van Watteghem points out his company consolidates multiple deliveries and charges one fee, which saves customers — particularly those trying to grow their business — money and time.

“Sometimes, the savings can amount to 60 to 70 percent which, for a small business, is a considerable amount of money,” explains Van Watteghem, back at the helm of his company after an almost 20 year hiatus for health reasons.

“Basically, I signed cheques,” he says with a smile. “But now that I’m healthier, it’s good to be back.”

The company has eight employees and has three trucks on the road with more available through rentals should the need arise.

The vast majority of the company’s clients are businesses shipping products cross-border and Van Watteghem believes his company’s 40 years of experience allows them to conduct business and deal with customs’ issues seamlessly.

Company salesman Paul Fettes stresses

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“we know how to solve problems for our clients and once you’ve done that, they keep coming back.”

Fettes adds, “It’s often difficult to persuade clients to switch shippers if everything is running smoothly, but once they encounter a problem, we believe we can help solve it.”

According to salesperson Doralynn Wade, Vans LTL also helps prevent inconsistent, delayed and incomplete deliveries by consolidating loads, which saves on costly shipping rates and reduces brokerage costs on U.S. shipments.

Van Watteghem mentions his company also works with National Hockey League teams and players in facilitating multiple deliveries of skates, sticks and other equipment manufactured by Canadian companies and ordered by U.S. based teams and players.

“In many ways, we act as a bridge between different courier companies in moving products across the border,” Van Watteghem states. “And once again, by consolidating those shipments, we can save our clients a considerable amount of money.”

If your company sells online, they can deliver all your pre-labelled packages to the U.S. and cross the border for you!

Their shipping/receiving depot in Windsor is situated at 3049 Devon Drive, where items can be dropped off (a pickup

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Salesman Pete Fettes, left, and Vans LTL Courier and Logistics Owner Paul Van Watteghem have many years of experience in the cross-border logistics and courier business and as a result are able to save small companies money by consolidating deliveries.

Photo by Dave Hall.

service is offered too). The company also operates a warehouse in Dearborn, Michigan where shipments awaiting forwarding are stored.

Van Watteghem reveals that, as a small company, his biggest challenge is informing other small companies that there are less expensive ways to do business.

“We’re able to offer volume discounts and those savings are passed on to our customers,” he says.

Vans LTL also works with Amazon and Shopify in moving goods and products to customers on both sides of the border.

He notes that, “While most of our shipping is focused on business-to-business, the e-commerce segment is slowly growing.”

For more information on their services, refer to: VansLTL.ca.

FRONTLINES

Bungalow Group Builds On 25 Years Of Quality Home Design

A local home builder is celebrating its 25th anniversary by breaking ground on a new 22-lot subdivision in LaSalle, which is expected to be complete by the end of next year.

The Bungalow Group, launched by Nicole Ciarrocchi and brother Scott Babister, grew out of their father Rick Babister’s land development company, and since 1994 has built more than 700 homes in Tecumseh, Kingsville, Essex, Belle River, South Windsor and LaSalle.

“We’ve dug three foundations already in LaSalle and we’re excited about the project,” says Ciarrocchi. “And we’re always looking to buy more lots and continue building.”

Ciarrocchi informs Biz X that homebuyers are becoming more discerning and that many customers get their design ideas from television shows on HGTV and even from social media sites such as Pinterest.

“While styles may have changed over the years, the main focus remains on quality workmanship and value for the dollar,” Ciarrocchi comments. “We’ve built ranches, raised ranches, bungalows and two-storey models and today people want to see a model home before they commit.”

She continues by stating, “In the past, a lot of our customers would just want to see drawings, layouts and designs, but now they want to see a finished home before they commit to spending the money.”

A case in point is a recently completed home at 256 Joan Flood Drive in Essex, which is listed by Remo Valente Real Estate for $489,900. It features three-bedrooms, two bathrooms, a great room, dining room, laundry area, a covered porch and an openconcept kitchen on a 60 x 120 foot lot.

“I think a lot of people believe that homebuilders make a great deal of money, but while home prices may have gone up, our margins are much the same as before because the cost of everything else has gone up as well, including building lots, labour and raw materials,” explains Steve Leili, Bungalow’s Site Supervisor.

Leili adds that buyers are now looking for more technology in their homes such as high-speed fibre-optic lines, as well as energy efficient systems throughout the home because utility costs are not likely to go down.

Advertising and marketing plans have

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Administrative Assistant Tanis Jaques, Bungalow Group President, Nicole Ciarrocchi and site supervisor Steve Leili, are pictured outside their latest single-family home at 256 Joan Flood Drive in Essex. Photo by Dave Hall.

also changed and Ciarrocchi has just hired Tanis Jaques, an Administrative Assistant, who handles the company’s social media presence.

“A huge change in our industry involves how we market and advertise ourselves and social media has become a major factor in how we do business and get our homes in front of the public,” Ciarrocchi expresses.

She also says it’s important for homebuilders to build relationships with the municipalities where they construct homes because all have subtle process differences and it’s critical to keep those in mind so business runs smoothly.

For more information on The Bungalow Group, visit their company website at: BungalowGroup.com.

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FRONTLINES New Podcast Biz Offers An Alternative Voice For Windsor Essex

Situated within The City Market at 1030 Walker Road in Windsor, MediaWorks Studios is now operational as of early November. The new business is the idea of Ted and Gabriella Daher and has the full support of veteran broadcaster Arms Bumanlag and his wife, Kerri.

Developed over six months, the full service podcast studios offer podcasting production, online videos, consultations and workshops, as well as studio recording — all the tools needed for an organization to brand and cultivate an audience online.

No stranger to being behind the microphone and camera, co-founder and host, Arms believes it was time to fill the local need€in social broadcasting.

“Our team has created a unique online community studio hub, and we want to work with local businesses, underrepresented groups, and Windsorites with stories to tell — content on demand,” he indicates. “When you want it. How you want it. We’re able to get deeper, get emotional and promote our community like no other.”

In other good news pertaining to this new business, local podcaster, Andy Sullivan of the Border City Network of Podcasts and his popular show, “Straight Outta Windsor,” now have a permanent home at MediaWorks Studios.

According to Ted Daher, “Andy is one of the best podcasters in the region — and to have Andy’s talent and skill onboard with our team — the sky is the limit.”

Within the Border City Network itself more shows are continually being announced and developed, with many Windsorites you’ve seen and heard before, such as Yvonne Pilon from WEtech Alliance, Remy Boubol and Arms and Kerri Bumanlag.

Topics cover everything from news in the area, diversity, tech, the local food scene and more.

You can find more studio information on the website: MediaWorksStudios.com as well as on their social media page: Facebook.com/mediaworksstudiosyqg.

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HEARD ON THE STREET Petretta Construction breaks ground in November 2019 on a 510-room residence on the grounds of St. Clair College along Talbot Road on Windsor’s far west side. President Davide Petretta says his company is working with Z Modular, a U.S. based company that specializes in modular construction projects.

“Each suite will contain eight bedrooms and will be fully-constructed off-site and delivered to us complete with furnishings,” adds Petretta. “These are not the fabricated buildings of old.” Petretta explains they are built to exacting tolerances to make them easier to stack and connect. “We will have to make all the plumbing and electrical connections, but it certainly speeds up the construction process,” he says. He hopes to have the project ready for occupancy

by September 2020. In the meantime, construction has also begun on two more Petretta projects in Lakeshore — a 4,600 square foot commercial building housing a Freshii, Baskin Robbins and Taco Bell in front of the new Food Basics store, also developed by Petretta, off Manning Road, and a $20 million 105-room Holiday Inn Express and Suites just minutes away on Amy Croft Drive. “It’s all a good sign for the local economy,” Petretta states. “We have been very busy out of town in recent years and to see these projects coming on line locally is very encouraging for us and local municipalities.” Tecumseh Golf will likely remain where it is on Manning through the spring before moving to an as-yet undisclosed location in time for next summer.

& Bar. Rej Gascon, who was involved in Eastwood’s Grill & Lounge in downtown Windsor for a while, purchased The Broken Egg in January of this year. “I just decided to try and focus more on a lunch and dinner crowd while still serving breakfast,” explains Gascon, who opened the rebranded restaurant in early October. “I also wanted to try and add some more menu items and experiment a little more with the food options.”

Gascon has added brisket and slow-cooked St. Louis-style pork ribs to the menu. He’s also updated the décor, added more artwork, menu chalkboards and television sets. Gascon’s still working on a website, which will outline the menu and hours of operation, but you can learn more on: Facebook.com/RailsideJacks.

A long-time town of Tecumseh restaurant situated at 12058 Tecumseh Road East — previously a Gilligan’s location and most recently, The Broken Egg — has now been transformed to become Railside Jack’s Grill

After just two years, Jessica Ryan had to look for a larger location for her Siblings Consignment Shop at 818 Ottawa Street in Windsor. “I wanted to stay on Ottawa Street,” says Ryan who is moving just a few doors

Ryan and Tina Odette, Owners of Mamo Burger Bar, 1515 Ottawa Street in Windsor, have launched Vine + Ash, a new restaurant situated at 13430 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh on the site of their second Mamo Burger, which has closed. The new restaurant, which opened in mid-October, focuses on locally-sourced food and beverages under a farm-to-table concept. Appetizers include beef tartare, chicken liver mousse, rice cakes and a charcuterie board and small plates featuring grilled shrimp, squid ink fried calamari, chicken wings and fried Brussels sprouts. Entrees include grilled octopus, beef strip loin, pan-roasted barramundi, lamb ribs and roasted duck breast. For more information and hours of operation, visit: VineAsh.com.

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down by the beginning of 2020. “It’s a great neighbourhood and my customers love the location and they’ve been really supportive, so I didn’t want to move too far.” Ryan adds that when she opened, she never expected to be so busy so quickly. “You always hope to be successful when you open a business, but you never really expect it, so this has come as a nice surprise,” she expresses.

John and Debbie Filippakis, new owners of Karen’s 4or Kids shoe store, 1647 Ottawa Street, take over January 1, 2020 from retiring owners Arnie and Jack Blaine; but the store isn’t likely to re-open for business until March 1. Debbie explains that because the store was slated to close upon the Blaine’s retirement, no fall or winter orders were placed and she’s had to play catch-up with spring and summer orders. “We also have to renovate the store a little, but otherwise, it will be business as usual,” she adds. The store’s name will remain the same. John and Debbie have operated Etta’s Greeklish Eatery, located at 5975Wyandotte Street East for a number of years and were looking for a lighter physical load because of some health issues. “I’m excited, happy, sad and scared all at the same time,” says Debbie. “I’ve always been up for a challenge and doing something new so I’m happy for that reason, but Riverside has been such a great neighbourhood for us and it’s sad to be leaving it behind.”

Mumma’s Burritos, a small, but growing, chain of Mexican restaurants, will soon have four locations in the Windsor area.

The company, based in Brampton, recently opened a restaurant at 13300 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh and has another planned soon, according to the company’s website, for 1451 Lauzon Road, where they will be renting space from Precision Car Wash. The other Windsor locations are at 3222 Dougall Avenue and 1500 Huron Church Road. Other Mumma’s restaurants are located in Brampton, Oakville, Aurora, Mississauga and Grande Prairie, Alta. with others scheduled to open soon in Etobicoke and Aurora.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN € ENWIN recently announced that customers now have access to the all-new account management portal, myENWIN as of October 2019. This powerful and mobile-friendly tool is designed to keep customers connected at their leisure and provide the best possible user experience when managing their ENWIN account.

“Customers want access to their accounts at their convenience,” remarks Robert Spagnuolo, ENWIN Director of Customer Service. “myENWIN has been designed so that whether they use a desktop computer, tablet or their phone, they have access to their account 24 hours a day and seven days a week.” myENWIN replaces ENWINconnect and it’s now easier than ever to view consumption data, receive and pay e-bills and sign-up for account notifications and alerts. “We encourage our customers to take an active role in monitoring their energy use,” says Barbara Peirce Marshall, Manager of Corporate Communications.

“With myENWIN, customers can track their electricity usage to the hour. Monitoring their water consumption is just as easy, all in a few simple clicks.” Customers who were already enrolled in paperless billing or pre-authorized payments through ENWINconnect can see those preferences carried over to myENWIN, with e-bills delivered electronically and payments withdrawn automatically as expected. To gain access to the new online portal, myENWIN, customers are required to complete a quick online registration process.

Customers attempting to log in to ENWINconnect will be redirected to myENWIN. Visit: My.ENWIN.com or ENWIN.com to read more details.

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Frank de Jong (left), President of R&T Security Services and Chris Neumann, President and CEO of Security ONE Alarm Systems shake hands on the acquisition deal between their two companies at Security ONE’s Leamington office on September 26, 2019.

Photo courtesy of Security ONE.

€ Security ONE alarm systems, a regional electronic security and life safety company headquartered in Leamington, recently acquired customer accounts from Chatham’s R&T Security Services. “Since 1998, R&T Security Services has been providing top notch customer service to a very loyal group of clients that we are proud to welcome to the Security ONE family,” says Chris Neumann, Security ONE President and CEO. Security ONE is also bringing on the existing R&T technical team so local customers can continue to see the same friendly faces they have been accustomed to for many years. R&T Security customers now have access to the advanced automated and smart security solutions, monitored video surveillance, hosted access control and ULC fire & life safety solutions, offered by Security ONE. Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) is an independent product safety testing, certification and inspection organization.

Neumann points out, “Most notably the only ULC listed, CSAA Five Diamond Certified monitoring station in Southern Ontario, as well as the secure MySecurityONE online

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account management portal.” R&T customers also have now have access to exclusive discounts and services from KELCOM, a sister company of Security ONE, which is celebrating 50 years in business this year.

The purchased accounts are serviced out of Security ONE’s four locations in Leamington, Windsor, Chatham and London. Learn more at: SecurityOneAlarm.com.

NEW IN BIZ €A 20 year veteran of the insurance industry, Jesmond Tabone is opening his own agency, Tabone Insurance Brokers Inc. as of December 1, 2019. “I decided to go out on my own as I became tired of making others rich,” he jokes. “But, seriously, I want to be able to take care of clients either in my office or at their kitchen table by offering one-on-one service.” The independent insurance brokerage is situated at 3012 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor, near the Tim Hortons. Tabone can offer clients a list of comprehensive insurance solutions for home, auto, life, commercial, business and travel to suit their needs at a reasonable cost.

“At Tabone Insurance Brokers Inc., it is our mission to provide independent advice, trust, accountability and outstanding service to our With his new agency, Jesmond Tabone’s goal is to develop the most comprehensive, cost-effective solution for his insurance clients.

customers and clients, while operating with the highest degree of integrity and honesty to develop the most comprehensive, costeffective solution,” he states. The married father of two young children is actively involved in the community and is active with the Knights of Columbus in the area.

He also chairs an annual fundraiser for the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation. His new company is still in the hiring process and he plans on having two more brokers and an Executive Assistant in the near future.

Check out: Facebook.com/taboneinsurance for news and tips on insurable issues. Further company information can be found on: TaboneInsurance.com.

HALL OF FAME €Three cheers for Double AA Metal Roofing Inc. (2177 County Road 42, Belle River; FinalRoof.com) for earning a very prestigious Safety Award from the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) in late September 2019. The company specializes in the installation of metal roofing systems for both residential/light commercial applications and the award recognizes their tireless efforts to develop a detailed and comprehensive Health and Safety system with the goal of

keeping its workers safe from injuries on the jobsite. “Double AA Metal Roofing Inc. is very proud and honoured to receive this award,” says President and Owner Tim Eansor. “Being near the top of the health and safety class in such a high risk occupation is very rewarding.” Double AA received the bronze award from a panel of WSIB judges, which compared over 120 companies from across southwestern Ontario. Outstanding Safety performance and the development of comprehensive safety systems and documented procedures were all part of the considerations made by the judges. Eansor emphasizes that his “employees have worked very hard to make Health and Safety a part of our everyday activities — that is the key.”

ON THE MOVE €The John McGivney Children’s Centre (JMCC; on the web: JMCcentre.ca) welcomes Jessica Sartori, Ph.D., as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as of October 2019.

“Jessica’s dedication to advancing the quality of care, programs and services offered to children and youth in Windsor Essex makes her an excellent fit here at JMCC as our CEO,” says Elizabeth Haugh, Board President, JMCC. An alumnus of the University of

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

The new CEO of JMCC, Jessica Sartori, looks forward to bringing her knowledge and experience as a trained researcher in Applied Social Psychology to her new role, while also learning from and collaborating with the existing team.

Windsor Sartori has worked as the Director of Quality Assurance at the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society since 2012. She also currently serves as the Chair of the Greater Essex County District School Board where she has represented Wards 1, 2, and 9 as a Trustee since 2014. Her previous experience includes serving as the Manager of Community Impact and Learning at the United Way Windsor-Essex County and as the Principal Consultant at Organization and Leadership Development Windsor-Essex.

“I am honoured and excited to be joining JMCC as their new CEO,” says Sartori,. “As a lifelong resident of Windsor Essex, I am continuously impressed by the amazing work that the JMCC team does for children and youth with special needs and their families.

I look forward to working together with our staff, our families and our Board of Directors to continue to provide the highest quality of care and services to our community.”

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DATES TO REMEMBER

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Submit your listing on: BizXmagazine.com and InPlayMagazine.com

November/December2019 TO VIEW EVEN MORE EVENTS VISIT: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND INPLAYMAGAZINE.COM AND CLICK ON THE “EVENTS” TAB!

*UNLESS NOTED 519 IS THE AREA CODE TO USE

Please be sure to confirm all events before attending.

€Nov. 23: Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation Inc. presents “Noah’s House Strolling Pasta Dinner & Art Night” at€Fox Glen Golf Club, 7525 Howard Avenue in McGregor from 6 to 11€p.m. All proceeds benefit Noah’s House Mental Health Foundation Inc. and will be used towards the opening of the Noah’s House Mental Health & Wellness centre for youth and young adults.

Cost is $30/person which includes a pasta dinner (appetizer station, salad and bread station, four different pasta stations), entertainment and raffles.

Tickets available on: NoahsHouse.ca or by contacting Colette Squire at 567-5935. €Nov. 23 & 24: The Town of Amherstburg Department of Tourism and Culture presents the seventh annual “Holiday House Tours” from 10 a.m. until 4€p.m. on both days. Visit some of Amherstburg’s most beautiful, unique and historic properties made even more stunning by professional decorators for the holidays. There are 11 fabulous stops on this year’s tour which also includes a tea event, a brew tasting at Lot 10 Brewery, plus a holiday market. Tickets are $25 and available at: VisitAmherstburg.ca/events or by calling 730-1309. €Dec. 1: The third annual “Jingle Bell Rock n’ Bowl” is a staff charity bowling challenge presented by the Fantastic Fathers community group at€Super

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Bowl Lanes, 10000 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $250 (five players with $50 minimum entry fee each) raised through pledge sheets or personal/company donations. Prizes awarded for the winning team, highest scores and even the lowest score! Partial event proceeds donated to Adopt-A-Vet for the veteran holiday season program. Questions about participating or donating a door prize? Email: info@fantasticfathers.ca; see: Facebook.com/FantasticFathers or dial 564-1880. €Dec. 6, 7 & 8: Don’t miss this annual holiday tradition — the 10th anniversary of local production “The Nutcracker” presented by Edmunds Towers School of Dance under the artistic direction of Kristyn Wiklanski. This ballet is performed by 150 elegantly costumed dancers to the muchloved score by Tchaikovsky and takes place at the Capitol Theatre, 121 University Avenue West.

Show times are Friday 7 p.m.; Saturday 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. $25 tickets are on sale now via the Capitol Theatre Box office online: CapitolTheatreWindsor.ca/event/the-nutcracker-5.

Need more information? Call Edmunds Towers School of Dance, 974-7422. €Dec. 20: The S’Aints ALL AGES annual fundraising “Sleighing Hunger” concert gets underway at 8 p.m. on The Colosseum stage inside

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

Caesars Windsor. This holiday treat showcases The S’Aints band featuring local and worldrenowned talents: lead vocalist Jody Raffoul; Tea Party drummer, Jeff Burrows, Wes Buckley, Kelly “Mr. Chill” Hoppe, David Cyrenne, Kelly Authier, Marty Bak, Liz Robinson, and Stephanie Baker. 100% of ticket proceeds stay within the community, benefiting those in need in Windsor Essex and Chatham. Going into its sixth year, the band hopes to build on the success of previous years which have raised nearly $270,000 to feed the hungry. Tickets are $25 at the casino box office, St. Clair College campuses, Devonshire Mall Guest Services and Ticketmaster.ca. €Dec. 25 to Jan. 1: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our readers, advertisers, suppliers, family and friends. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays! €Dec. 31: The Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road in Oldcastle hosts its “New Year’s Eve Gala 2019” starting at 6 p.m. with a champagne reception/antipasto bar followed by dinner at 7 p.m. (including two bottles of imported wine per table), entertainment by an all-star band and a midnight buffet with champagne toast. Cash bar. More details at: CiociaroClub.com. Tickets are $120 pp — just email: reception@ciociaroclub.com or call 737-6153 to get yours today!

SAVE THE DATE

Feel The Magic Of Amherstburg This Winter From November To February

Amherstburg — one the prettiest and oldest towns in Southwestern Ontario — is a place you’ll want to visit this holiday season with your family, friends or even a quiet day alone.

Charming, quaint and transformed into a winter wonderland, this historic community is the perfect day or evening trip for shopping, dining and taking in the beauty of winter. And it’s located only 25 minutes from the Windsor/Detroit border!

A walkable, friendly downtown awaits

This holiday season the historic square in downtown Amherstburg is always an iconic place where friends meet for special events and plenty of selfie shots!

Photo courtesy of the Town of Amherstburg.

you, so relax in a magical setting where you can stop for lunch or dinner in one of the many eclectic restaurants and cafes.

Choose from fresh baked delicacies, world class cuisine, a new craft brewery, wines from their local, award winning wineries and one-of-kind shops.

Bundle up and visit their award winning “River Lights” festive light displays, from November 16, 2019 to January 6, 2020 where the spirit of winter will warm your heart in their downtown parks filled with twinkling lights and sparkle!

There is also a life sized Gingerbread Warming House to take off the chill of the winter season, outdoor holiday movies, a Super Santa 5K Run/Walk, Municipal Tree Lighting, free crafts for the kids, hot chocolate and more!

“We welcome everyone this holiday season to make memories and start a new family tradition in downtown Amherstburg,” entices Anne Rota, Manager of Tourism & Culture for the Town of Amherstburg. “Whether you are planning a visit as a couple, family or friends, Amherstburg will capture

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

And after the holidays have come and gone, the winter wonderland in Amherstburg continues with the town’s new street festival “TRUE” just in time for the Valentines’ Day weekend in February 2020.

your imagination and awaken your senses.”

But that’s not all! This little town always has unique and interesting events that we guarantee you are going to love!

Mark your calendar for their new street festival “TRUE” — just in time for the Valentines’ Day weekend in February 2020.

Come be yourself and share the love of Amherstburg!

For more information on the beautiful town of Amherstburg and the “TRUE” festival be sure to check out the website: VisitAmherstburg.ca or on social media: Facebook.com/VisitAmherstburg.

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COVER STORY

The 22nd Annual Biz X Awards Tribute

“H2O — When Your Ship Comes In”

“When Your Ship Comes In” there’ll be plenty of treasure chests filled with gold, silver, jewels and more. For 24 of the 272 nominees, the real treasure is a golden Biz X Award — the “pillars of success”! Main photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/shmeljov. Insertion of Biz X Award by Rod Denis.

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Award Write-ups By Rebecca Wright & Jim Murphy

wning a business these days is never an easy job. Most entrepreneurs work night and day to make a decent living, pay their employees and every so often, perhaps manage a few days vacation. Technically, we all seem to “be in the same boat” with a heavy workload . . . yet, each of us dreams of that one day when our “ship comes in” and we are successful. (For some, winning a Biz X Award just might make that happen!)

With plenty of catch phrases associated with ships and nautical elements related to owning a business — and throw in the fact that Biz X magazine is celebrating 22 years of publishing with Hallmark listing the perfect anniversary gift as “water” — the theme for our 2019 awards issue and gala was crystal clear.

“Year 22: H2O — When Your Ship Comes In” works well for not only the reasons listed, but also because our region is surrounded by water and home to Ontario’s third largest port.

Each year the Windsor Port Authority receives more than 600 ships, delivering more than 5 million tonnes of aggregate, salt, steel and grain to Windsor Essex, and ports across the Great Lakes, and into Europe. And that’s good business!

Water has also helped lots of restoration and waterproofing companies have a profitable year due to increased business from flooded properties.

As the saying goes, “Every cloud has a silver

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lining!” And our local tourism industry benefits from the lake and river nearby with water activities and overnight stays/dining etc. Plus, who doesn’t like to take a car ride on Riverside Drive along the waterfront on a gorgeous day!

Finally water, of course, means life for our bodies. Need we prove our point more!

Throughout the Biz X Awards edition you will see elements of this water and ship/boat theme.

Editorial graphics feature the “wave of success,” with references to music/movies and nautical colours (like navy, white and brown) on the story pages here and for those attending our gala, the nautical décor of the room.

The mission of our annual awards edition is to honour the best in the biz that Windsor Essex has to offer and that starts with the business owners and people who must “batten down the hatches” to overcome challenges such as severe weather (flooding); high gas/utility costs, employee turnover, increased online competition and more, to ensure their businesses reach a “safe harbour” and “stay afloat” in the future.

The loyal readers of Biz X magazine believe our nominees are the leaders in the local business community for exceptional customer service, selection, pricing and dedication to their companies/organizations.

The Awards recognize and honour the business men and women in the region who are constantly working hard to be #1 in their industries.

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

Which businesses, people and event will receive the golden Biz X Award — the “pillars of success” — this year?

In 2019, our 22nd annual awards, a whopping 272 nominees competed in 24 categories. And this year, the online voting poll conducted from September 12 until September 26 (see bullet #2 for further information) saw a record number of votes!

According to Jack Eisenberg, Database Analyst for Biz X magazine, “For the past three years, the Biz X Awards polling was completely automated. Community interest in our awards continues to grow, as evidenced by more than 50,000 votes for this year’s nominees, a 29% increase over last year’s results and a whopping 120% increase over two years ago.”

We thank you all so much for your support!

Our award history goes back to 1998, and to date, over 700 Biz X Awards have been handed out.

Like every year before, the new batch of nominees are simply the best our region has to offer and we congratulate every company, organization and individual listed throughout this entire cover story. In our view, all are exceptional business owners or top managers, but there can be only one winner of each category in the end.

These lucky recipients attend an exclusive awards gala on November 15, 2019 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts in an elegant setting with décor by Designs by Diane and an Awards Ceremony featuring expert technical services and lighting by Bigtime Presentations, entertainment with Joshua & Kristina and fun photos with Wunderbooth. For this formal event, our Biz X men, Judges and celebrity presenters are outfitted

by Collins Clothiers (check out the front cover).

Winners also receive a plaque from The Trophy Boys, to display in their place of business. As well, their acceptance speeches are shown on YourTV (Channel HD 700) in January 2020 on the “Plugged In” show. Video footage, along with live social media updates, is also recorded by the Film Camp for Kids & Youth in partnership with MANAN Media.

Five main award sponsors include: Motor City Community Credit Union; WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Centre; St. Clair College Alumni Association; Tecumseh Mall, and Community Gaming & Entertainment Group. For a complete list of our gala suppliers and sponsors, please visit: BizXmagazine.com.

So let’s “take the helm” and fill you in on how a business, event or individual became a nominee or an overall winner of their category by recapping the rules for the Biz X Awards.

Each year a list of award categories are published in the summer and September editions of Biz X magazine and online at: BizXmagazine.com.

Businesses and people can be nominated by customers, suppliers, and Biz X readers, from mid-July until early September, using an online form with a section for supporting evidence included. Only a single nomination is required to

be in the voting poll, so everyone has a fair chance, especially if a small company.

After the nomination period ended, nominees were made public on the Biz X website, when a voting poll in each category commenced for a two week period from mid-September until the end of the month. People could vote once per category per IP address only (reinforcing the fact this is not a popularity contest). Individuals could vote in all categories, if they wanted — or just one!

Everything was totally confidential and no one could see who voted for who or how many votes a particular nominee had. The number of votes did not constitute an automatic win, and the voting results may or may not have had an impact on the judging process. Vote tallies are only a part of the overall selection process.

The qualifications for nominees are simple.

Businesses must be located in Windsor Essex, which includes the City of Windsor, LaSalle, Lakeshore, Tecumseh, Amherstburg, Pelee Island, and all of Essex County. For categories in the PEOPLE section, nominees must be 19 years of age or over and reside in Windsor Essex.

Companies can be nominated for more than one category; however, businesses/people are only allowed to win one award per year.

National chains/franchises and non-profits are not eligible in most categories. Our mandate is to reward start-up businesses in our region and not national companies. However, exceptions are made in the PEOPLE section as we do believe those individuals (working for national chains or working for a charity/non-profit) living in our area deserve to be recognized. Since this entire section (categories #8 to #13) is being judged on the individual and not the company itself, they are allowed to participate. *An exception has also been made for non-profit organizations and charities to participate in category #22.

No media outlets can participate in any of the categories.

Nominees are given an opportunity to submit information on themselves and/or their company to Biz X magazine upon notification that they were nominated. The information from the nomination forms, a summary of the voting poll results and the company supplied information is then submitted to our panel of Judges for review and discussion. All nominees are required to return this information as it is a way to check the information a nominator has submitted on the website form. The information provided is also used to compile the write-up on the company or person in the annual awards edition. Judges also research each nominee at their own discretion and visit as many nominees as possible. The Judges meet after the online voting poll closes and review the results and the backup information and select the final winners during “Judgment Night” in October.

To avoid any conflict of interest, Biz X full time staff members are not permitted to participate in the judging process. This is to

Even though the Biz X Awards Judges (identified below) had compasses to point them in the right direction and a life preserver to keep them “afloat,” they were constantly in “choppy waters” due to the difficulty in choosing the final 24 winners out of so many incredible nominees. Since the voting poll began in September and the list of nominees was released to the public, the Judges were busy navigating their way through the nomination forms. They each kept a personal “ship’s log” on their own research and also from the required nominee background information. After “casting their net” far and wide to learn more about their top picks, they met up together in October during “Judgment Night” at Eastwood’s Grill & Lounge (EastwoodsGrillLounge.com), 63 Riverside Drive East, Windsor. Here on the second floor there was plenty of privacy for our Judges to debate and think about the nominees as they gazed out of the windows at the nearby Detroit River. They also enjoyed a selection of dishes such as: Beef Ribs; Nachos; Beet and Goat Cheese Salad; Spinach Dip and Chicken Wraps, which made your mouth “water”! This excellent meal helped the Judges work long into the night especially after heated conversations when a few were told to “walk the plank” during disagreements!

In the end, the choices were made and the secret voting ballots were collected. Photo by Rebecca Wright.

ensure impartiality to all advertisers, suppliers, and friends. As well, Judges cannot participate on “Judgment Night” conversations or final voting in any categories that friends, relatives, or their own business are being considered for. They also are not permitted to be involved in any part of the judging process if their own business or workplace is a supplier to a nominee or pays a nominated company for any services they or their business may need. Please note that any biases declared by Judges, are mentioned at the end of the write-up, if necessary.

Businesses do not have to be an advertiser with the magazine to be nominated or win. Every company, whether a Biz X advertiser or not, has an equal chance of winning. Once all nominations are in and the voting poll is closed (the end of September), companies may be contacted to purchase ads by Biz X Sales Associates to thank those who nominated/voted for them in the November/December awards issue. The Judges are unaware which companies advertise in this edition (or do not) when they make their final decisions and only see the completed awards issue at the same time the readers do. This ensures there are NO biases or conflicts of interest. Judges do not know who the final winners are on “Judgment Night” as they voted by secret ballot and are not told the results. All those nominees who chose to advertise in the November/December issue had nominee badges in their ads and, just before the magazine went to print, for those who won, the nominee badge was switched to a winner badge B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

(without the knowledge of the advertiser). The entire process is kept top secret with only a select few knowing the final outcome ahead of time and no one seeing the winner badge in their ad until the magazine is released to the public.

Our “Anchors” The Biz X Awards Judging Crew As shown in photo above, Judges from left are. . .

Justin Fox, Donor Relations Office at St. Clair College and a member of the Judging team for three years, once again was the voice of the young business population. He says that trying to pick just one category as a favourite is difficult. “Just when you think you have a favourite, the folks at Biz X keep us on our toes by adding unique and exciting categories each year,” he comments. Even though he had a bias he was impressed by one category in particular. “If I had to pick one, I would have to go with ‘Marvelous Millennial Manager’ as I am the young gun on the committee. It is always so nice to see the millennials being represented and the work they have done to help make YQG a better place to live, work and play.” He expresses that coming back as a Judge for another year is very exhilarating because he gets to learn about the new businesses, organizations and events that have decided to call Windsor Essex their home. “As well, it is so nice to see past recipients still succeeding in their careers and businesses that continue to grow and expand,” he adds. Fox believes that the Biz X Awards are very important to the YQG community as they provide individuals and businesses a platform

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Award category banners & Sponsor graphic:

© Can Stock Photo/Jut

to share their stories and achievements with the community. “The Biz X Awards play a role in giving individuals and businesses the confidence to continue succeeding and growing with their businesses, while also promoting the importance of community partnerships,” Fox states.

Fifth-time Judge€ Jason Kerluck is the Area Manager/Leadership Coach for Soul Foods Group.€“I have had the privilege of being a Biz X Awards Judge for several years, and I just really enjoy celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit that lives here in Windsor-Essex,” he exclaims.

Throughout his years as a Judge, he’s maintained a favourite category each time: “I’ve always been, and likely will always be, a fan of ‘Powerhouse Professional,’” he states. “These folks aren’t just business owners or managers, but community members who take what they do to the next level and make the people around them better for it!”

He feels that the Biz X Awards are very important because they honour the many individuals who put a lot on the line for a dream of running their own business. “It’s such a risk with both reward and failure equally possible,” he says. “This bravery to live their dream is a big part of what makes these entrepreneurs so special.”

Debra McVeety returned as General Manager at Tecumseh Mall with Europro in November 2018 after completing a project with the Toronto International Design Centre in 2017 and 2018.

Previously she was appointed National Director of Specialty Leasing and Partnerships for 20 VIC Management, working with shopping centres across Canada. Prior to this, McVeety held the position of Regional Director, Specialty Leasing and Partnerships working with local and nationally branded retailers for Ivanhoe Cambridge.€She has contributed to the International Council of Shopping Centres Specialty Leasing Trade Manual and has served on the faculty of The John T. Riordan School of Professional Development for 10 years. Along with her team at Tecumseh Mall, McVeety maintains strong community relationships with local non-profit organizations and personally with “100 Women Who Care.”

As a seventh year Biz X Awards Judge, she says it is her pleasure to take part in highlighting excellence throughout the region through the Biz X Awards. “Windsor and Essex County has a tenacious, entrepreneurial spirit with incredibly hard-working individuals,” she comments.

“Biz X does an outstanding job of recognizing these exceptional local business owners through their annual awards edition and gala.”

Porthole frame: © Can Stock Photo/3dfoto

Rope frame: © Can Stock Photo/Dimakp

open€Grill 55 restaurant, and before that he was a Corporate Chef with€RATIONAL Canada Inc. When the Hilton Windsor€won a€Biz X€Award in 2004 for “A Buffet Like No Other,” Meehan was a part of the winning team as a Sous Chef.

Obviously, his favourite categories when judging are those related to local dining choices, but he also enjoys “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year” category. “Participating as a Judge for the Biz X Awards allows me to be part of bringing recognition to outstanding businesses in the Windsor Essex area,” he explains. “And the Biz X Awards do a fantastic job at allowing all kinds of businesses, large or small, in many industries to be recognized for going above and beyond.”

Justin Barker€is€the General Manager of the€ Comfort€Inn South Windsor€and€ is back for his lucky 13th year as a€Biz X€Awards Judge.

He is the Secretary of the Board for the€Ontario Regional Marketing Committee€for€Choice Hotels Canada. Barker is also actively involved in scouting, as a leader with the 89th Windsor€Scout Troop Venturer Company. As a manager in the service industry, he is keenly aware of what it takes to succeed in today’s business climate. Barker says any of the categories that pertain to the food industry interest him the most. “Many guests who stay at the hotel are looking for unique locations for meals,” he states. “By participating in the discussions, reviewing the comments and reading Biz X, I know when I make a referral, that my guests will enjoy their experience.” Baker believes participation in local business awards events like the Biz X Awards profiles local companies and entrepreneurs and creates awareness of these individuals in the communities in which they operate. “By highlighting local businesses, we are contributing to the local community’s unique identity, and by being involved locally, small business owners help build a sense of community.”

Second time Judge Chad Goulet is a Project Manager at Paul Davis and has 10 years of experience working in the cleaning and restoration industry, having owned his own business previously. His favourite category is, “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year” because he likes to learn about all the organizations and individuals who volunteer their time to raise money for a great cause to benefit Windsor Essex. “It truly shows that our region has a lot of heart and soul and together we can make our community the best place to live for all residents,” he comments. He is proud to be a Judge because he believes the Biz X Awards are a great way to “acknowledge€the hard work and dedication put forth by€local entrepreneurs, Fifth-time Judge€Steve Meehan€is a Consultant top managers and business professionals€who Chef for Steve Meehan Consulting. Previously give it their all each and every day to keep their he was the Executive Chef at Beach Grove Golf companies running successfully and contributing and Country Club; Executive Chef and General to our economy.” In addition Goulet states, “These Manager at€Bistro 42, a division of€North 42 awards help the community realize and appreciate Degrees Estate Winery; Executive Chef at€ the challenges every entrepreneur struggles with St. Clair College Centre for the Arts; helped to daily and Biz X readers get to learn a bit more

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

Past Winner Background: © Can Stock Photo/ESchweitzer

about how the history of how these companies began and where they are headed into the future.”

Master Of Ceremonies For The “Biz X Awards Gala” November 15, 2019 At St. Clair College Centre For The Arts

Always making sure we have nothing but “smooth sailing” in the timing for the awards ceremony is Joe McParland, our own “Cup of Joe”. He returns for his fourth year as the Emcee of our gala.

McParland is a lifelong Windsorite who is familiar with the bountiful fresh waters that form Windsor and Essex County’s “100 Mile Peninsula”.

Comprised of nine municipalities, the 100 Mile Peninsula extends from Lighthouse Cove on Lake St. Clair,€along the shoreline to Wheatley on Lake Erie, and includes Lakeshore,€Tecumseh, Windsor, LaSalle,€Essex,€Amherstburg, Kingsville, Leamington and Pelee Island.

As a licenced Ontario marriage officiant, McParland has married couples from every one of the nine municipalities just listed. And until his retirement with YourTV (Cogeco) this year, he covered the county political scene for them.

During his earlier 26 year career with Canada Border Services Agency he became very familiar with these waterways, as they often served as a haven for both legitimate water hobbyists as well as potential booze smugglers. For the past five years he has followed that up as a mainstay in the Rum Runners Tour, playing the role of the “Fighting Parson,” the Methodist Minister who attempted to stem the tide of illegal bootlegging on the Detroit River almost 100 years ago.

In closing up his bio, “First mate” McParland wishes to remind us the City of Windsor’s€roots are reflected in its corporate Coat of Arms — with the motto, “The River and the€Land Sustain Us” — which hangs in the Council Chambers of City Hall.

“Anchors Aweigh”!

Deborah Jones, Publisher of Biz X magazine and her entire team wish to thank all “hands on deck” — the Judges, our MC, celebrity presenters, sponsors, suppliers, and most importantly, our valued advertisers and readers for their support.

The entire team at Biz X is equally as proud of our amazing 272 nominees listed in our 22nd annual Awards edition, and each deserve major credit as only the best were nominated.

As the subhead to this section now reveals it’s time to “pull up the anchor” and “sail away”. This ship (or story LOL!) is officially underway!

Get ready to “cruise” through the list of nominees as we reveal which businesses/organizations, people and events in Windsor Essex have been selected as the 24 winners to earn a Biz X Award for 2019. . . “Bon Voyage”!

1.€“Outstanding New Business Of 2019”

BUSINESS AND SERVICE (*no national chains/non-profits allowed)

brought to you by (Businesses that opened from September 1, 2018 to September 1, 2019.) *No restaurants/ food trucks or bars, as these are included in the Hospitality & Entertainment Categories.

The nominees are . . . € Border City Style (October 2018) BorderCityStyle.com, Windsor/LaSalle € Brava Academy Of Music And The Performing Arts (October 2018) 755 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor € Caché Boutique (April 2019) 5975 Malden Rd., Unit #3, LaSalle € EZY Mode Inc. (May 2019) 943 Ottawa St., Windsor € Industry Dance Co. (January 2019) 1250 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor € Lot 10 Brewing Company (June 2019) 263 Dalhousie St., Amherstburg € lynnpike Fashion House (April 2019) 578 Notre Dame St., Belle River € Print To Colour (July 2019) PrintToColour.com, Windsor € Rock-A-Bye Baby Boutique (March 2019), 48 Talbot St. North, Essex € Shred Shop (October 2018) 3230 Jefferson Blvd., Windsor € V Apothecary (July 2019) 480 Advance Blvd., Unit 205, Lakeshore And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

EZY Mode Inc. According to Owners Stephen Chowtee, Matt Deleersnyder and Dean Hayes, EZY Mode Inc. (EZYMode.ca) is a new and innovative eSports lounge, bringing popular video games to the Windsor audience using multiple top-of-the-line competitive platforms. “EZY’s core focus is to build and cater to the gaming community

WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com in Windsor,” comments Deleersnyder, adding they’re main objective is to have a place where new and old gamers alike can come to meet others with similar interests, in their local area. EZY Mode (Facebook. com/EZYMode) offers 20 competitive PC builds with eight consoles. They also have a bar that offers beer and coolers along with snacks, such as hot dogs, chips and candy, and they are always streaming the current eSports tournaments and competitions on their 106-inch projector and five large TV screens. “EZY charges customers by the hour for use of the systems, but encourages everyone to come hang out in the lounge and enjoy a cold one while they watch their favourite Twitch stream, or to catch up with a friend,” Deleersnyder mentions. “So far, this year, we are amazed to see how many neat friendships have come to be between people that would have never met if EZY didn’t exist.” Nominator Nathalie writes that EZY Mode has an incredible atmosphere and has a very unique business concept that she feels will go far. “This is the first of its kind in the area and I believe that it will fill a void in our community,” she

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Remember the classic game of “Battleship”? Games may have changed over the years with technology, but the desire to socialize and battle the enemy (or other players) is always there. A new Windsor business — EZY Mode Inc. — is the first and only eSports lounge from here to Toronto. It offers a place for gamers to meet people with similar interests such as the ones pictured playing a round of “Fortnite”.

Photo courtesy of Jose Ramirez.

maintains. “I can’t wait for more people to discover this amazing local business.” And nominator Ryan F. adds that EZY Mode is “giving a place for people of all ages to enjoy instead of having to go to the bars at night.” EZY Mode is open until midnight Sunday to Thursday, and until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. “Egaming is on the up right now and it’s huge,” states Judge Fox, adding that St. Clair College even created a new eSports Administration and Entrepreneurship Program recently — pointing out the staying power of EZY Mode well into the future. The business currently employs four people, but Deleersnyder says as the business grows they will look to open multiple locations and employ more than 20 staff in their first two years. “EZY Mode will be more than a lounge, we strive to be an expert in the eSports industry,” he asserts.

“We’re looking to get involved in large tournament planning, creating eSports’ leagues, adding an ecommerce component and providing knowledge to those looking go get involved in the new and booming industry.”

Judge Kerluck did not vote in this category.

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2€ .€“Home Sweet € New Home Builder”

(If this company builds it, they will come! Think about the style of homes they construct, price range, experience, professional association memberships.)

The nominees are . . . € BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd., 13405 Desro Drive, Tecumseh € Gray Development Group, 498 Brighton Rd., Tecumseh € Habib Homes, 5335 Outer Drive, Windsor € Noah Homes, 950 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville € S. Bertucci General Contractor Ltd., 3812 Concord Court, Windsor € Tony Rauti Luxury Homes, 6470 Matchette Rd., LaSalle And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd. Owners Ben and Brent Klundert of BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd. say their

We’re pretty sure that every sailor on “shore leave” would want to spend their time on dry land in a beautiful home like this! BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd. has a large library of home plans including the “Fairmont” model (shown) in a Craftsman Exterior. This three bedroom home features€a formal dining room/office, large eat in kitchen with walk in/ Butler’s pantry, 9 foot or 10 foot ceilings on the main floor and more. Photo courtesy of BK Cornerstone Design Build.

company’s goal is to provide clients with a building process that is both rewarding and interactive. “We ensure their new home captures their visions and expectations,” states Brent. He points out their in-house Designer, Project Manager and Site Supervisors are always available to answer questions and ensure that the homes they build meet the clients’ highest expectations.

Congratulations to

NOAH HOMES

nominated for

“2019 NEW HOME BUILDER”

Best wishes to all Biz X Award Winners & Nominees from . . .

519.948.5300 royallepagebinder.com 22

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

“We pride ourselves on employing many of our own tradespeople,” Brent notes, adding they hire in-house cabinet makers, flooring and trim carpenters and painters. They refer to themselves as the builders of “everyone’s better home,” and stress they are neither an exclusive luxury home builder nor a low-cost budget builder. “We construct better-built homes for regular middle-class families,”

claims Brent. “The BK Cornerstone name is synonymous with a well-built home as regularly referenced by resellers of our homes in their marketing.” Originally named Ben Klundert and Son Ltd., Ben rebranded in 2001 as BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd. In 2006, BK Cornerstone (BKCornerstone.com) became this area’s first “Energy Star” registered builder, according to Brent. “We provide homeowners with a better-built home that ensures economical energy savings that are immediately attainable, quantifiable and certified,” he declares. Family-tested floor plans with great curb appeal, custom cabinetry and beautiful trim are the hallmarks of a BK Cornerstone home, Brent describes.

“But, the value is in many of the things you do not see,” he says. “Our partnerships with our suppliers like Kohler, Armstrong, Dashwood, and Owens Corning and our commitment to only building Energy Star homes that use less energy, thereby protecting the environment for future generations — a BK Cornerstone home is simply a better built home.” The company has been building homes throughout Windsor Essex for the past 35 years. “Our most notable subdivisions include Forrest Hill and Coopers Mill in Belle River, Kimball Estates in Essex and Fairview Estates and Strawberry Gardens in LaSalle,” Brent lists — all of which total more than 300 completed

homes. With these projects and developments continuing to progress, and new ones underway, they’ll soon reach more than 500 homes built since 2001. The BK Cornerstone family of companies, which includes BK Cornerstone Design-Build Ltd., Designworks Cabinetry, North 42 Landscape and Design, and Distinctive Homes & Real Estate, has 41 full-time employees. The company is a member of the Windsor Essex Home Builders’ Association and is also a proud member of the Association’s Board of Directors. “As a Tarion Registered New Home Builder, we offer full Tarion warranty on all our new homes,” Brent indicates. “We also have industry leading supplier partners who supply exceptional products that carry additional warranty coverage for our homeowners.” Judge Fox says that from ranch-style to two-storey homes, BK Cornerstone has you covered in the $300k to $500k price range. “Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet in the county, the lakeside breeze, the luxury of the upper-west, or the bustling city, BK can build there,” states Fox. “Their state-of-the-art model homes feature leading-edge building designs and construction technologies to improve energy use and air quality while reducing your utility bills.”

Judge McVeety abstained from voting in this category due to a bias.

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3.€“The One Stop Print Shop To Always Copy” (From business cards to wedding invites and everything in between, this company always makes a good impression with quick service, quality work and terrific prices.)

The nominees are . . . € Avenue16, Avenue16.ca, Windsor € Bella Carta Invitations, Facebook.com/Bella-Carta -753809754753394, Kingsville € Copy Cat Printing, 4824 Malden Rd., LaSalle € Herald Press Ltd., 656 University Ave. West, Windsor € JJ Marketing Advantage, Facebook.com/JJMarketingAdvantage, Windsor € The Printin’ Place, 1501 Tecumseh Rd. West, Windsor

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And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Herald Press Ltd. This business, in existence for more than a century, is a one-stop printing company says Co-owner Dan Marcuz, with Joe Aquilina and Tom Sinasac. They specialize in business cards, continuous cheques, custom flyer booklets, bulletins, calendars, graphic design, digital and offset printing, as well as forms and management of forms. Herald Press Limited (HeraldPress.ca) also offers high-speed copying, promotional and marketing materials, business essentials and more. “We pride ourselves in guiding our customers to realize the importance of promotion for business success, and we offer an extensive line of promotional products ranging from customized pens, calendars, and pocket desk planners to large format signage,” states Marcuz. They also state that they offer friendly customer service and they provide their customers with information and suggestions to help them attain their needs, in ways they may have not thought about that are practical and economical. “Our experienced staff is knowledgeable and helpful, and has more than 165 years of print experience” Marcuz comments. Their product line boast is; “If it’s paper and ink, we can help,”

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notes Marcuz. “From tiny peel and stick labels, envelopes, letterhead, business cards, cheques, unaddressed mail drops, postcards and all in between,” he adds.

Their print options vary from in-house work to using one of their reliable trade printers to turn around jobs to meet their clients’ deadlines. Herald Press opened in 1890 and is a moderately-priced printing company, according to Marcuz, and in addition, has value-added advantages for their client base. As good examples he cites, “We do not charge for delivery to your door and we can stock inventory if a client is short of space or wants to take advantage of a volume buy to reduce the unit price.” More proof of their superior service relates to one of their clients who has a weekly cheque run, numbering in the thousands, and they deliver “just in time” to save space and costs. Herald Press is also a strong supporter of local charities such as United Way, In Honour of the Ones We Love, Hospice of Windsor and Essex County, and the Handicapable Association. Judge Barker remarks, “Don’t let the exterior of the building fool you.

Inside is an amazing print shop with great service. They have been around since 1890 and it really shows in terms of the quality of their work as well as the scope of it.”

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4.€“Above Water Co. Creating A Big Splash” (To fit our theme for this year’s awards issue we are looking for businesses selling items or providing a service used on or in the water! For example, swimsuits and boats/jet skis/kayaks or even swimming pools, pool chemicals or canoe rentals.)

The nominees are . . . € Atlantis Hot Tubs & Pools, 137 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh € Barnet Custom Fabrication Inc., 150 Murdoch St., Harrow € Dan’s Nautical Shop, 12237 Riverside Drive East, Tecumseh € Leamington Pool and Spa, 53 Oak St. West, Leamington € Windsor River Cruises, WindsorRiverCruises.com, Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Dan’s Nautical Shop A focus on excellent customer service is how Dan’s Nautical Shop Owner Chris

“Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream” . . . whether it is a sailboat, power boat or canoe, Dan’s Nautical Shop and Owner Chris Courey (pictured at the store’s front counter) carry all the boating supplies you’ll ever need. Photo courtesy of Chris Courey.

Courey has stayed “afloat” over the years.

“We’re local boaters and we cater to local boaters,” says Courey. “No matter how big or small your boat or project, we’re here to help you along the way with advice and quality products.” Dan’s Nautical Shop (DansNauticalShop.com) currently has three employees and focuses on selling marine supplies and boating accessories. “We only sell and recommend products that we would use on our own boats,” Courey stresses. “We sell marine supplies, including but not limited to, safety equipment, fibreglass repair, epoxy, engine oil, engine parts, water sports

accessories, soaps and wax, and sailing hardware.” The Owner, who grew up boating on Lake St. Clair, is confident that with their 25 + suppliers, if it goes on a boat, they can get it for you! Located near the waterfront and the local yacht club, sailing clubs and marinas, the shop is very accessible to boaters in the region. However, Courey notes the only repairs they do in-house are to inflatable boats where they can install patches and accessories.

For all other repairs, they outsource to local mechanics.€The original Owner of the shop was Dan Denomme, which is where the name of the business originated. Denomme’s wife, Claire, operated Simply Swimwear next door, which is now what Courey’s wife, Kaitlyn, runs. Courey kept the name Dan’s Nautical Shop because it had a good reputation and brand behind it.€The business originally opened in 2014 with Courey taking it over in 2017. “I think that they’re doing everything right,” comments Judge McVeety. “And they’ve got a really great online presence as well, which is so important in retail these days.” Locally, Dan’s Nautical Shop supports several charitable organizations, including Windsor Goodfellows and Hiatus House.

As for plans for the future, Courey states they intend to continue to serve the local boating community with quality products at competitive prices.

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5.€“Distinguished Biz € Champ Of The Year”

(A company in operation for over one year that has done something exceptional to take care of business.)

The nominees are . . . € A Step Above Wellness Centre, 5975 Malden Rd., LaSalle € County Towing Inc, 1329 Erie Rd. South, Harrow € DeliverBae Inc., DeliverBae.com, Windsor € Fast Lane Auto Repair, 61 Main St. West, Kingsville € Forest Glade Fireplaces, 11400 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor and 107 Erie St. North, Leamington € Fredrick & Associates Accounting and Tax Professionals, 3411 Sandwich St., Suite 206, Windsor € GreenerBins Composting Company, GreenerBinsCompost.com, Windsor € KELCOM, 363 Eugenie St. East (headquarters), Windsor

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€ Little Buddies Preschool Centre, 193 Simcoe St., Amherstburg € Macro Foods Inc., 1389 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor € Naylor’s Kitchen & Bath Centres, 3260 Jefferson Blvd., Windsor € RFG Plumbing and RFG Electrical, 130007 Hyland Side Rd., Essex € Rosati Construction Inc., 6555 Malden Rd., Windsor € Special Events & Tents, 492 Blanchard Park, Unit #1, Tecumseh € The Cheese Bar, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 29B, Lakeshore € Valente Contracting Inc., 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 34, Lakeshore € Valero Wellness, 480 Advance Blvd., Unit 200, Lakeshore € Windsor/Essex CPR & First Aid Training, 3200 Deziel Drive, Unit 415, Windsor

And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

RFG Plumbing and RFG Electrical This family business, owned by Frank (father) Giles and his sons, Ryan and Brandon, is focused on servicing residential, commercial and industrial clients and providing Windsor Essex with professional plumbing services. RFG Plumbing Inc. was opened in 2016 and services many rental property companies, such as Metcap, Marda Management and Roubin Properties, and restaurants such as various local McDonald’s locations.

“Transparency is our policy,” state the owners adding their wide variety of services makes RFG Plumbing the community’s go-to plumbers. “We do rough-ins for bathrooms and kitchens, sewer line repairs and replacements, installing faucets, toilets and other trim, unclogging sewer lines and more,” say the owners. As well, they do backwater valve and sump pump installations in Windsor through the basement subsidy program that the City of Windsor offers — a critical service with recent flooding in the area. They also do emergency service calls 24 hours a day. They strive for excellence in all they do and always have their customers in mind. “One thing that sets us apart from other plumbing companies is the program we use for scheduling, House Call Pro,” the owners describe, which entails scheduling a date and time, but also goes beyond that. “On the day of the job, the team member assigned, hits the ‘On The Way’ button, it notifies the customer we’re on our way and shows them a picture of the team members that will be doing the job, which, for safety, allows the customer to recognize who will be on their

property.” RFG Plumbing gives back in the community, including to Unit 7 Street Help every year, and they also believe in giving back to their nine employees and their families in a big way. “Once a year, we believe in closing the business for a week and paying for each team member and their children to go on a Caribbean vacation,” explain the owners. “We believe this helps in being rejuvenated and relieving stress and having people go back to work feeling refreshed.” They also do mini-getaways throughout the year for training and upgrading their education on certain software or tools that they use, as well as attend trade shows to learn about products and innovative ways to better serve their customers. RFG Plumbing (RFGPlumbing.com) is involved with the North American Plumbing Advisory Council and has reached a recent goal of theirs, to launch RFG Electrical Inc., which took place January. Judge Barker comments, “They’re very strong and they’re getting more and more equipment.” “It’s amazing how much they’ve grown in such a short amount of time,” notes Judge Fox. Judge McVeety did not vote in this category or take part in any discussions due to a bias.

6.€ “Kickin’ Karate € Kid School”

A Martial Arts school with classes for children to learn discipline and respect for others as trained by qualified, experienced instructors.)

The nominees are . . . € Copeland’s Martial Arts & Fitness Centre, 2557 Dougall Ave., Windsor € Da Silva’s Academy Of Martial Arts, 243 McAffee St., Harrow € Mady’s Isshin-ryu Chikara Dojo, 395 Tecumseh Rd. West, Windsor € Mr. Kersey’s Karate School Ltd., 3079 Forest Glade Drive, Windsor € YunHap Family Martial Arts, 1301 Front Rd., LaSalle And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Mr. Kersey’s Karate School Ltd. When Lamon Kersey describes his business — Mr. Kersey’s Karate School Ltd., which he owns with his wife, AnneMarie — he says, “I teach life skills: focus, control and respect to kids, using Martial Arts as B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

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Just as “water” is life, certain life skills are needed too. Lamon Kersey (shown leading a class of children) of Mr. Kersey’s, believes his Martial Arts studio is unique because they teach children life skills and character development in a fun way, emphasizing there is more to the Martial Arts than kicking and punching.

Photo courtesy of Lamon Kersey.

the vehicle.” Mr. Kersey’s Karate School Ltd. (MrKerseyKarate.com) opened in 1973, but Lamon started teaching full-time in 1982. The school specializes in starting instruction with kids as early as three years old. “We teach kids life skills and character development at an early age, and we teach learning is fun and there is more to the Martial Arts besides kicking and punching,” Lamon emphasizes. The types of classes they offer are: Little Dragons 3-5 years old, Juniors 6-12 years old, Teens 13-16 years old and Adults. They have group instruction and offer private lessons as well. Their staff of nine employees includes one full-time and eight part-time instructors, with three to four instructors on the floor assisting in each class. Lamon has completed the American Council on Martial Arts certification for instructors and he has been a National Association of Professional Martial Artists member since 1996. “I continue training and studying business systems of the top Martial Arts schools in the world and I travel across

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the country three to five times a year for seminars and conventions for new ideals for the classroom,” Lamon describes. He says his staff has been “homegrown,” with some who started with him when they were Little Dragons and now are university students.

They strive to provide excellent customer service, which includes sending handwritten welcome cards to all new members, even the Little Dragons — which is oftentimes their first piece of mail — and they also send handwritten birthday cards to all members.

“Each new member is also given a welcome package, which includes a success journal for the kids and a parents’ journal, which shows them how they can help the kids at home,” adds Lamon. They also offer karate birthday parties where the birthday child cuts the cake with a sword. “We have already had over 150 parties,” states Lamon. In 1992, Lamon was inducted into the International Karate Hall of Fame, the Isshinryu Hall of Fame 2013, and Windsor/Essex County Sports Hall of Fame in 2016. “I was also on

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the cover of MASuccess magazine in 2004, and I was awarded from Century Martial Arts the Mark of Excellence 2012, 2013 and 2017 in recognition of dedication to the Martial Arts,” notes Lamon, who is also a member of the Martial Arts Teachers Association and the Martial Arts Industry Association. “At Mr. Kersey’s it’s all about the kids,” stresses Judge Meehan. “That’s what he’s focused on and you can see that when you go on his website. Just look at the huge photo of the little boy on the home page!” Judge Goulet adds, “Lamon Kersey is an excellent teacher and martial artist. He has a way of capturing children’s attention to the point where the kids are tuned right in to him. He teaches children to have respect, confidence, discipline and integrity, all the while teaching excellent self-defence skills.”

7.€“The Grass Is Always € Greener With This € Lawncare Service” (For small residential jobs like cutting the grass and property maintenance such as tree trimming to commercial landscaping companies with custom designs to make your yard the envy of the street!)

The nominees are . . . € AC Landscaping & Design, 1780 Highway #3, Oldcastle € Afif’s Landscaping, Facebook.com/115283853190971, Windsor € Eco-Vision Gardens, Eco-VisionGardens.ca, Windsor € Landscapes Defined, 508 Elmstead Rd., Lakeshore € Nature’s Best Landscape And Design, 8465 Malden Rd., LaSalle € Yard-Worx Landscape & Supply, Yard-Worx.ca, Windsor

And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Yard-Worx Landscape & Supply At Yard-Worx Landscaping, Owner/Operator Shane Dupuis says they can service many types of existing landscapes or create the “one of your dreams.” Opened in 2003, Yard-Worx (Yard-Worx.ca) provides full property maintenance and landscaping service, including: landscape design and installation, property maintenance, irrigation and drainage, landscape curbing, fertilizer packages, fencing and more. They specialize in water features, either new or additions to existing ones. “We can add a beautiful bubbling rock in your yard or a waterfall off a pond,” describes Dupuis. “We also provide landscape curbing and we are a local supplier for faux rocks. Both add beautifully to an existing landscape or a new one being built.” They have package pricing on their curbing, which is per linear foot, and they offer full-season fertilizer and weed control packages. Their fertilizer package includes: spring aerating, corn gluten, three fertilizer applications, over-seeding and weed control.

Currently, they employ five full-time people.

“At Yard-Worx, most of our employees have been with us for years and some for much longer,” states Dupuis. “All of them offer unique takes on landscape ideas, which they share openly.” Dupuis has been in the field for more than 20 years and has learned many

“Land ho!” Yard-Worx Landscape & Supply has been busy making this front yard the best it can be! Last year, in a layout, the sprinklers and grade were designed. This year the full garden landscape was completed, including the dark grey curbing with a slate pattern and a bubbling rock water feature (not shown). They also chose all the plants and took care of the grass too with their fertilizing maintenance package. Photo courtesy of Shane Dupuis.

things on top of what he has trained for. YardWorx is a member of the Better Business Bureau, as well as Landscape Ontario.

Nomination forms were full of praise for how great the service is by Yard-Worx, including Steve M. who wrote, “Shane, Kyle Bigelow and the whole crew do a great job with their residential and commercial work. I’ve had them complete work for our business and my

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home and they’ve never disappointed. They have great communication with you and always make sure the customer is happy.”

Their website is also very professional, informative and creative featuring plenty of photos to prove Yard-Worx always “goes the whole nine yards!”

Due to a conflict, Judges Goulet and Barker abstained from voting in this category.

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Captain Hat bullet: © Can Stock Photo/Mehmetbuma

8.€“2019 Powerhouse € Professional”

PEOPLE

brought to you by (A local business owner or top manager who has what it takes to keep the company/ organization they own or work for profitable in today’s tough times.) *Nominees in this category could not also participate in #11.

The nominees are . . . €Andrea Descargar, Launch Events Co., 600 Ouellette Ave., Windsor €Bill Dileva, Nuvo Entertainment, NuvoEntertainment.com, Windsor €Carolyn Burton, Ten Friends Diner, 1412 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor €Carrie Deslippe, Above and Beyond Massage Therapy Clinic, 5158 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Clayton Walls, Stone House 1891 Craft Bar & Kitchen, 1115 West Shore Rd., Pelee Island €D’Anne Mullin, Great Beginnings Child Centered Co-operative Inc., GreatBeginningsDaycare.ca/team-view/ danne-mullin, Windsor €Dr. Jeffrey Smith, Affinity Dental Centres, 7755 Tecumseh Rd. East, Suite 102, Windsor €Fiona Coughlin, Habitat For Humanity Windsor-Essex, 51 Edinborough St., Windsor €Jason Toner, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, 333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor €Joe Cozzetto, Valente Contracting Inc., 100 Arlington Blvd., Tecumseh €Joseph Orsi, 2Way Automotive, 109 Queen St., Harrow €Julie Fader, Head Of The Class Education Centre and Educational Consultant, 1247 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor

StClairAlumni.com (An exception is made in categories #8 to 13 to allow those working for national franchises/ chains or non-profit organizations to participate.) €Karen Kamen, Oxford Learning, 13300 Tecumseh Rd. East, Suite 290, Tecumseh and 5844 Malden Rd., Unit 24A, LaSalle €Loire Taylor, E-Liberation, 47 Main St. East, Kingsville and Explore Pelee, ExplorePelee.com €Martin Gorski and Suzanne Dajczak, North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, 130 County Rd. 50 East, Harrow €Michael Campoli, Made To Shade, 492 Blanchard Park, Unit 3, Tecumseh €Moya McAlister, Arts Collective Theatre, 330 City Hall Square West (inside All Saints’ Anglican Church), Windsor €Nancy Campana, Nouveau Event Planning, NouveauEvent.com, LaSalle €Natasha E. Feghali, Feghali Group Inc., NatashaEFeghali.com, Windsor €Pat O’Halloran, Allegra Marketing Print Mail and Image 360, 1800 Huron Church Rd., Windsor €Peter Kanis, Baron Champion Rings, 12274 County Rd. 42, Tecumseh

NORTH AMERICA'S FASTEST GROWING COMPANY IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP RING SECTOR

PETER KANIS 1-866-944-4089 | BARONRINGS.COM 12274 COUNTY RD 42, TECUMSEH, ON

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€Reena Kainth, Rain Fitness, 25 Amy Croft Drive, #9A, Tecumseh €Reiner Neumann, KELCOM, 363 Eugenie St. East, Windsor €Rob Petroni, LiUNA625, 255 Fasan Drive, Oldcastle €Shawna Godin, Talbot Massage Therapy, 113 Talbot St. South, Unit 1, Essex €Tamara Boland, Pure Cycle & Yoga Studio, 540 Old Tecumseh Rd., Lakeshore €Terry Turner, Terry T. Turner Professional Corporation, 4320 Seminole St., Windsor €Vern Myslichuk, Verna-Q-Lar, BetterMade Cabinets, Bacchus Ristorante, and Low-MartinMansion, LowMartinMansion.com, Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Fiona Coughlin Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex As Executive Director of the Habitat ReStore/ Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, a nonprofit organization, Fiona Coughlin believes her 18 years of experience “gets buildings built and opens doors to the community.” She has actively supported and driven the opening of many service operations throughout Ontario, including helping open The Exchange in the GTA, which is a specialized group home for seniors with developmental disabilities, and locally, also helping open the Wellness Centre at The Downtown Mission of Windsor. “When I was hired at Habitat for Humanity WindsorEssex in 2017, our Board of Directors expressed deep concern that our Habitat ReStore urgently needed to be moved,” she states and mentions it was run-down in a hidden location and the workspace was not safe. “When I met the staff, I realized we had the potential to do so much more,” she says. “Together we embarked on an ambitious plan to open one of the largest ReStores in Canada — right here in Windsor.”

Judge Kerluck notes that Coughlin is quite the go-getter and accomplished this goal and more.

He explains that, “Earlier this year she and her team opened a brand new 22,000-square-

With Fiona Coughlin, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity Windsor Essex “at the helm” the organization’s goal of opening one of the largest ReStores in Canada was accomplished at the end of May 2019 when the 22,000 sq. ft.

Re-Store opened in Windsor. Photo by Dave Hall.

foot ReStore, which is the first in the world to be designed and built from the ground up with an Innovation Centre, Skills Lab and Youth Mentorship Hub at its operations core, Yet, that did not stop this ‘powerhouse’ as following this success, she flew 17 hours and joined Habitat for Humanity Kenya on a build in Nanyuki where she had the opportunity to learn from local leaders.” Coughlin reports “This experience has given me a deeper insight into the challenges of building with limited resources.” Since 1994, Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex has built 65 homes and provided a permanent solution to more than 370 individuals and families formerly in need of housing. Habitat ReStores are home and building supply stores that accept and resell quality new and used appliances, furniture and building materials to the public. “While there are many businesses in the salvage or resale market, ours has a tangible local

impact,” comments Coughlin. She stresses that eliminating poverty housing has always been their focus, and the ReStore is pivotal to achieving that goal. At Habitat, they have 18 staff and more than 500 volunteers. “We also support 200 youth trainees throughout the year as they learn hands-on skills in retail, customer service and in construction on the building site,” adds Coughlin. In 2019 she secured a significant grant and increased their capacity to salvage appliances and kitchens. In 2018, Coughlin spearheaded an effort to bring back the Windsor Furniture Bank through their ReStore. “Furniture Bank gift cards are distributed to partner organizations like the Welcome Centre, Hiatus House and Matthew House,” states Coughlin. “This service offers families in desperate need, access to furniture, free of charge.” With the ReStore raising significant funds, they now have the ability to go beyond single-home builds and restore whole communities. “My work at Habitat for Humanity is focused on neighbourhood renewal in core areas of need in Windsor,” she describes. Coughlin points out that in 2020, they also plan to launch a critical home repair program to assist seniors and veterans in retaining their homes. Always one to lend a helping hand in the local community, Coughlin sits on the City of Windsor Housing Advisory Committee and she is also the Past President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals

— Canada South Chapter. Learn more about the ReStore on: HabitatWindsor.org.

Judges McVeety, Meehan and Fox abstained from voting due to conflicts.

9. “Artist Of The Year”

(Singer, painter, musician, sculptor, band, actor only.) *No authors, photographers or corporate entertainers could participate.

The nominees are . . . €Asaph Maurer (Painter) AsaphMaurer.com, Windsor €Benjamin Doncom (Singer/Songwriter) Facebook.com/BjDoncom, Kingsville €Coffee House Combo (Jazz Band) CoffeeHouseCombo.ca, Windsor €Courtney Leigh, EVB Jewelry (Gemstone Jewellery Designer) EVBJewelry.etsy.com, Windsor €David Creed (Mural Painter) DCreed.ca, Harrow €David Derkatz, DERKZ Graffiti & Fine-Art (Multidisciplinary Artist) Facebook.com/DERKZart, Windsor

Thank you for

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YEARS! In Windsor-Essex

& Chatham-Kent

“2019 Powerhouse Professional”

Reiner Neumann

“Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year”

KELCOM

Windsor 363 Eugenie St. E 519-250-5070

FM Communications 4115 Walker Rd. 519-972-5973 Leamington 24 Oak St. E. 519-326-6789

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Tecumseh 1695 Manning Rd. 519-735-5166

Chatham 167 Keil Dr. S. 519-351-2800

YEARS

T H ANK YO U

www.kelcomwireless.ca

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€Donna Jean Mayne (Sculptor) DonnaJeanMayne.com, Windsor €Dr. Bruce Kotowich (Singer/Conductor) Windsor Facebook.com/Bruce.Kotowich €Frank DeBlock (Painter), No current website available, Lakeshore €Huttch (Band), HuttchBand.com, Windsor €Janice Kersey (Painter), JKersey.weebly.com, Windsor €Julila Mpesha, Mugelezi (Singer/Songwriter), Tecumseh Facebook.com/Mugelezi47 €Mel Lucier (Comedian), Windsor Facebook.com/MeliciousComedy €Nancy A Bauer (Visual Artist) on Facebook see: “An Artist in Search of Excellence-Nancy A Bauer” €Patrick Giles, Pattoos Ink (Tattoo Artist), 1101 Erie St. East, Windsor €Vi Tran (Painter/Sculptor) Facebook.com/PixaPaints, Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Asaph Maurer It was at the tender age of five that Asaph Maurer began drawing and realizing his artistic abilities, but because he grew up in a strict religious cult — where any art was deemed inappropriate — his pieces

were burned right in front of him. It was a tragic start to his story as an artist. At the age of 28, he escaped the cult and he and his family began a new life in Toronto.

It was a tough transition into society as Maurer adjusted to a life of freedom and he struggled with mental health and addiction issues. Three years ago, Maurer completed a rehab program in Windsor and decided to stay in the area and pursue his talent as a full-time professional painter. He describes himself as a Visual Artist with acrylics and oversized canvases as his main mediums. He specializes in portraits and has always been fascinated by human faces and animals (see his work at: AsaphMaurer.com). “I began experimenting with different mediums such as charcoal, pastels, watercolours, oil paints and even wood burning,” recalls the selftaught artist. “I also tried different surfaces including wood boards, canvas and paper.”

However, this local artist has a unique style of creating his painted pieces because he doesn’t use one main tool that most painters have as their go-to — brushes. “I create images with multiple layers of textures and paints applied with palette knives, an airbrush and piping the paint on the canvas in rapid motions,” Maurer explains. Besides creating art and making it his business, he says his main objective has always been

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Born and raised in a strict religious cult until the age of 28, Asaph Maurer certainly has “sailed against the wind.” However, these challenging experiences have impacted and benefited his art. Now, in his studio (where he is pictured here), he is free to create powerful, emotional content and present striking observations about the human condition.

Photo courtesy of Mychailo Photography.

“to get other artists in the same place, and thus revolutionize the art and creative community in our city and area.” He took this notion to the Windsor Business Accelerator, and earlier this year he began the Art Incubator there in collaboration with other creative professionals. The Art Incubator is a shared creative space where artists of all levels can work, interact and have access to the resources they need to further their careers as professional artists. Maurer

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has done a great deal to further develop the local arts scene. With a grant from the City of Windsor, he ran a mentorship program this year and plans to expand this program next year. He has used his art to contribute to many charity initiatives and events in the community, including Transition to Betterness, the Brentwood Recovery Home and more. At this year’s “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” for The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District chapter, Maurer was one of the local celebrity models in the lineup and he also donated one of his large paintings as a raffle prize. He sits on a number of creative and non-profit boards as a volunteer, he has curated and participated in several group art shows, as well as solo, and has done live art demonstrations at countless events in the community. “I have also run painting classes for beginners and plan to do more of these events as they are really trending and I want to foster any sort of love for art expression in the community,” he comments. The Windsor Essex area is truly inspiring to him and he appreciates opportunities to give back and make a difference with his work. “This community has been a great part of my healing process and has provided such great opportunities for my art,” he emphasizes. Judge McVeety has a huge appreciation for Maurer’s work

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and admires how far he’s come and the success he’s achieved given his difficult past. “Asaph’s style is so recognizable and unique,” she believes. “His story gives me goose bumps.” Nominator Laurie W. writes “Maurer is a tremendously talented painter and his live art demonstrations are a big hit at local events. He has a unique life story that I believe only serves to enhance his talent.”

Maurer’s goal is for the arts community to be a financial driver in this area. “To that end, a new level of collaboration and community is being built and I am proud to be a part of that,” he states. “Setting up an artist village, opening another art gallery and generating revenue for hundreds of artists, are some of the projects I am working towards in reaching those goals.”

Due to a conflict, Judge Meehan did not vote or take part in discussions in this category.

10. “€ The Only € € Optometrist € To See” (Your eyes are your most important physical

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asset so look for an experienced, caring doctor with plenty of availability.)

The nominees are . . . €Dr. Abby Jakob, EYES, 30 Main St. East, Kingsville €Dr. Dan Vespa, Vespa Vision Centre, 13330 Lanoue St., Tecumseh €Dr. David Chorney, Chorney Vision Centre, 1695 University Ave. West, Windsor €Dr. Kreeshna Rana, Rana Eyecare, 1303 County Rd. 22, Belle River €Dr. Krishna Khatri, LaSalle Vision, 5935 Malden Rd. Unit 1, LaSalle €Dr. Roxanne Jubenville, Dr. Roxanne Jubenville & Associates, 595 Tecumseh Rd. East, Unit 1, Windsor €Dr. Steven Acanne, Ouellette Ave Eye Care Centre, 1488 Ouellette Ave., Windsor €Dr. Tim Guthrie, Guthrie Optometry, 7786 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor €Dr. Tony Wahab, SEEN Vision Care, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh and 3100 Howard Avenue, Devonshire Mall, Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Dr. Abby Jakob, EYES At the age of 27, soon after graduating from Illinois College of Optometry, Dr. Abby Jakob purchased an historic building in

Kingsville and began her plans for owning a practice. In 2017, after many renovations completed with assistance from family and business help from her consultant, Dr. Richard Kattouf, she opened the doors of EYES (AbbyJakobEYES.com). “With the continued help from my consultant, I have been working diligently on improving my office productivity, profitability and efficiency, three things I did not learn from academia,” states Jakob. “In the future, I plan to hire associate optometrists to join my practice so that I can focus more on growing it.” At EYES you’ll find 800 frames and sunglasses from 30 different frame lines.

“Patients are pleasantly surprised to learn that we are a one-stop-shop, and they can depend on us for any adjustments, repairs or changes to their glasses,” she says. Jakob also works with other eye care professionals, including specialists who perform LASIK, cataract surgery or treatments for macular degeneration and glaucoma. She believes in preventative care and this is evident in the eye exams she performs. “Routine eye exams can prevent silent, sight-threatening conditions and maintain your vision as well as eye health — and sometimes they even save lives,” she expresses. “Throughout the eye exam, I am very deliberate in explaining why I perform each test and what it means. I

believe patient education is the most important part of the exam, because the more knowledge I can share, the better care people will take of themselves and their eyes.” Jakob is continually keeping up to date with the latest equipment and technologies to help detect eye diseases as soon as possible. According to Jakob, what sets her apart from others in the field is her Optical Coherence Tomography.

Similar to an MRI, this shows resolution and structures of the eye that are impossible to see with the naked eye or simply taking a photo. “The other valuable instrument that I use regularly on patients is a Humphrey Automated Visual Field, which helps detect retinal diseases such as glaucoma, as well as brain diseases or infarcts, like strokes and tumours,” she explains. “Being comfortable with all of these technologies and using them as an adjunct to my exam has helped me diagnose several cases of previously undetected glaucoma, macular degeneration and the most important diagnosis of my short career — a brain tumour in a seven year old girl.” Jakob always tries to go above and beyond for her patients, and this is exemplified in the ways she communicates with them. She is fluent in French, and when patients come in whose first language is French, she speaks to them in their native tongue. “They are not only impressed, but appreciative that I make

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Dr. Abby Jakob of EYES helps her patients “navigate the muddy waters” and see clearly through preventative eye care. Photo courtesy of Natalie Cobby.

the effort to speak their first language,” she comments. She says no matter who walks through her doors, she greets them with a smile. “I am always happy to see my patients, whether new or established, and I believe one of the most important things I can do as their eye doctor is make them feel welcome and comfortable.” Jakob says, growing up she was told she was always too optimistic and was walking around with rose-coloured glasses, but she feels they fit her well, and her patients agree! “Having a genuinely happy attitude makes my work seem less like work, helps strengthen my relationships with patients and staff and makes the job more rewarding,” she asserts. “My patients tell me all the time how much they appreciate

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my cheerful demeanor.” Another cheery personal touch she enjoys doing is giving every female patient a fresh-cut flower from the front desk at the end of their eye exam. “I’m still working on a token of my appreciation for the men,” she adds. The ambiance inside her business is described as boutique-style. “I want patients to feel like they are experiencing something that is high-class and luxurious,” Jakob explains.

But the flashy and stylish “Ritz Carlton treatment” she aims to provide — complete with a several sparkling chandeliers — does not take away from the friendly and welcoming atmosphere Jakob and her staff are committed to creating and maintaining.

“From the moment you walk through the door, you feel welcome, comfortable, and relaxed,” writes Nominator Cristina M. “Most importantly, she is passionate about preserving your sight while helping you look your best!” Judge Kerluck was also impressed with her charitable work as “While in optometry school Dr. Jakob organized several initiatives that helped thousands of patients abroad, including a trip to Morocco where she was involved in providing eye care to 6,000 patients in six days.” Now that’s vision Essex County and the whole world can benefit from!

Judge Barker did not vote in this category due to a conflict.

11.€“Marvelous €Millennial €Manager” (This category proves there are plenty of hard working young people, approximately 20 to 40 years of age, who manage their own businesses or organizations they work for to the max.) *Nominees in this category could not participate in #8.

The nominees are . . . €Adam Pernasilici, Laser Transport Inc., 3380 Wheelton Drive, Windsor €Ahmed Zabian, Eastern Flavours, 4072 Walker Rd. Unit 5, Windsor; Crepe de Licious, Devonshire Mall, 3100 Howard Ave., Windsor and Pro Image Sports, also in Devonshire Mall and 1555 Talbot Rd., LaSalle €Ben Graham, Ben Graham Fitness Solutions, Windsor Facebook.comBenGrahamFitnessSolutions €Bethany Russell, Brava Academy of Music & The Performing Arts, 755 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Breannah Deschaine, Evermore Princess Parties, Facebook.com/EvermoreParties, Windsor

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€Bridget Fauteux, Fit Nutrition Canada, 152 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh €Brooke Gursoy, Industry Dance Co., 1250 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Caterina Gigliotti, Bartini Mobile Martini Bar, Facebook.com/Bartini6165, Windsor €Chris Rabideau, Arts Collective Theatre, 330 City Hall Square West (inside All Saints’ Anglican Church), Windsor €Cole Fortier, Interrobang Vintage, 530 Pelissier St., Windsor €David Burman, Mister Maid, 1055 Ottawa St., Windsor €Dr. Andrew Mercer, Sabga Physiotherapy Chiropractic (CARE Institute), 2464 Howard Ave., Suite 108, Windsor €Dr. Maxwell Abraham, Abraham Orthodontics, 185 Erie St. South, Unit 1, Leamington €Em Omenugha, HIGHER SOCIIETY, HigherSociiety.com, Windsor €Faith Monaco, Impact Health and Fitness Centre, 88 Talbot St. East, Leamington €Frank Tamasovics, Certified Softwash Solutions, 9240 Disputed Rd., Windsor €Gisele Levasseur, Windsor, RBC Mobile Mortgage Specialist, Facebook.com/GiseleLevasseuRBC MobileMortgageSpecialist

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€Hussam Salman, Paramount Fine Foods, 3184 Dougall Ave., Unit A5, Windsor € Ivan Horvath, Brookdale Construction, BrookdaleConstruction.com, Windsor €Jenny Drouillard, Tutoring Solutions Academy, TutoringSolutions.ca, Essex €Joanna Conrad, Essex County Diversion, 1821 Provincial Rd., Windsor €Joseph Jones, Mathnasium Of Tecumseh, 25 Amy Croft Drive, #20 A, Tecumseh €Katherine White and Laura Zeleney, Cafe 10, 1412 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor €Lucas Cabral, Artcite Inc., 109 University Ave. West, Windsor €Lyndon Barnet, Barnet Custom Fabrication Inc., 150 Murdoch St., Harrow €Mikalya Wilds, Popeye’s Supplements, 4450 Walker Rd., Unit E2, Windsor €Mike Teves, Mike Teves Films, On Facebook see “Mike Teves Films” €Nichole Howson, AIM Social Media Marketing, AimSMmarketing.com, Essex €Rachael Myers, Little Foot Foods, 1404 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Ray DeMarco, DeMarco’s Fine Foods, 1349 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor €Ryan Peebles, St. Clair College Student Representative Council, 2000 Talbot Rd. West, Windsor

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€Sarah Roddy, GetInTheLoop, Facebook.com/GetInTheLoop WindsorEssex €Stephanie and Vanessa Clark, Toasty’s Grilled Cheese & Salad Bar, 357 Ouellette Ave., Windsor €Stephanie Pilon, Ocean Bottom Soap Company, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh €Tricia Fletcher, Little Stars Child Care, 3139 Dougall Ave., Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Rachael Myers, Little Foot Foods With a Masters Degree in Political Science and a Teaching Certificate from the University of Windsor — and no formal culinary education — Rachael Myers set out to begin a business selling one particular food item she loved dearly and grew up with as a child — pierogis. “I began Little Foot Foods, a gourmet pierogi manufacturing company, six years ago,” states the 32 year old business owner and mother of a three year old son, Ellis. “I began with my Babicha’s potato, cheddar and onion pierogi, already boiled and immediately frozen just like I enjoyed them as a kid growing up.” In 2013, she began working out of a community centre in Riverside just five hours a week and selling through direct delivery and local markets.

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Rachael Myers of Little Foot Foods will never “miss the boat” of opportunity as, after continually pounding the pavement, she has grown her business in a few short years from a small vendor space at the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market to a thriving storefront location. Photo courtesy of Little Foot Foods.

The first year she displayed her pierogis at the first ever “Walkerville Night Market” she was only able to give out samples because she didn’t yet have the capacity to produce enough to sell as well. “The response was overwhelming, and I quickly realized that I needed to hire someone to help me, in addition to my husband, who at the time had a full-time job as well as helping me

on weekends,” she mentions. She hired her first full-time employee in 2014 and she says production really picked up from there. During that time, they expanded both their production capabilities and variety of offerings, expanding on the traditional pierogi flavours and innovating the process along the way. “A year later my husband Rob quit his full-time job to join our team full-time,” she comments. In the spring of 2016 they purchased equipment to automate their process. This changed their business dramatically and meant they needed to move in to a bigger space from where they started in Riverside. “We were very fortunate to find space on Tecumseh Road East in the heart of South Walkerville, so we set up our expanding operation,” she describes. “After several months of renovations and trial and error, we felt settled in and comfortable with our new manufacturing process and our new home. The community support during this time was invaluable.” They now offer more that 40 flavours of pierogis along with their traditional cabbage rolls, stuffed peppers, cookies and cheddar biscuits. “Our store front also showcases other local vendors who want to retail their goods,” notes Myers. “Providing space and opportunity for growth has been celebrated by both the vendors and the community.

We often hear how nice it is to have a onestop shopping location.” Their business has grown mostly through word of mouth and sampling at local events. “We would not be here today without the ‘Downtown Windsor Farmer’s Market’ and the help of other vendors,” Myers stresses. Little Foot Foods (LittleFootFoods.com) currently has two full-time employees in addition to Myers and her husband. “We also welcome€co-op students and Community Living student workers throughout the year,” she adds. They will also be adding a new part-time position — going to a former employee who is able to join the team again — to help give the community what Myers says they have been asking for: “Later store hours!” She says they will now be open until 9 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays to accommodate their wonderful customers’ busy schedules. Myers says she has grown and changed so much over the past six years, right along with the business. “I have had the€opportunity to work with amazing talent€in this city and I would not be where I am today without both theirs and the community’s support,” states Myers. “We have had a number of employees come and go during this time as well and each one has taught me invaluable lessons.” Judge Meehan says Myers and her team at Little

Foot Foods run this small business like a well-oiled machine. “Plus everything is all family recipes,” he comments. “Rachael is a very down to earth person, a hard worker and truly a ‘Marvelous Millennial Manager’.”

Judge Fox did not vote or take part in discussions for this category due to a bias.

12.€“The Injury € Lawyer It Doesn’t € € Hurt To Hire” (From dog bites, slip and falls, car accidents and more, if you are in pain and cannot work, the right lawyer is important.)

The nominees are . . . €Colleen Caza, Goldstein DeBiase Serious Injury Lawyers, 475 Devonshire Rd., Suite 200, Windsor €Jennifer E. Bezaire, Greg Monforton And Partners Injury Lawyers, 1 Riverside Drive West, Suite 801, Windsor €Melanie Gardin, Velocity Injury Law, 871 Ottawa St., Unit 400, Windsor

CONGRATULATIONS

TO ALL BIZ X NOMINEES

A Division of

519-419-5660

3310 Dougall Ave., Windsor

SignatureTributes.ca

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€Suzanne Dajczak, Suzanne M. Dajczak Professional Corporation, 3694 Dougall Ave., Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Jennifer E. Bezaire, Greg Monforton And Partners Injury Lawyers Jennifer Bezaire asserts that she has a track record of almost 100 percent in terms of cases she’s won. Bezaire joined Greg Monforton and Partners as an Associate Lawyer in 2004 and became a Partner in 2013. The firm opened in 1981 and the other partners are Greg Monforton, Brad Robitaille and Dina Mejalli. “We represent people who are victims of crashes, slip/falls, product liability and medical malpractice,” lists Bezaire, who has represented thousands of clients.

When asked what makes her a good injury lawyer, Bezaire stayed true to her values, a quality Biz X Awards Judges obviously admire. She comments it is considered unethical to compare themselves to, or state that she is better than any other lawyer. “However, we can say that we love what we do, we love the clients that we are honoured to represent and we do so with great care, skill acumen, technology and professionalism,” she states. As for her trial and negotiation experience, her answer is simple and succinct: “It’s all I

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do.” Regarding the fee structure the firm operates on 100% contingency work. Biz X Awards Judge Barker states, “After reading comments, reviews and from what I have heard on the street, Jennifer and the firm she works for are very good at what they do. She always gives sound advice and tells people if they are being too trivial and to let things go. And on the other hand, I have heard she tells clients there is an actual case and she can take the case. Jennifer really does stand by the core values listed on the firm’s website (GregMonforton.com).”

Judges McVeety and Meehan have conflicts in this category and did not vote or take part in any discussions.

13.€“Fitness Instructor € Forever Rising To The Challenge”

(Whether it be a personal trainer or an instructor for yoga, spinning, Zumba, aerobics, Pilates and more, the individual who pushes you to the limits!) *No coaches for any type of sports could participate.

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The nominees are . . . €Andrew Corchis, Peak Fitness Health & Training Studio, 215 Eugenie St. West, Windsor €Ben Graham, Ben Graham Fitness Solutions, Windsor Facebook.com/BenGrahamFitnessSolutions €Carol Lee, Movati Athletic, 313 Main St. East, Kingsville Square, Kingsville €Jennifer Cassidy, Fury Training Grounds, 26 Fairview Ave. West, Essex €Kyle Essery, Healthy Solutions, Facebook.com/KjEssery, Windsor €Natalie Mayer, Little Tree Yoga Studio, 2258 Lincoln Rd., Windsor €Rob Hebert, Maxfit, 3755 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Samantha Veres, GoodLife Fitness Tecumseh Mall, 7670 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Sawyer Telegdy, Shred Shop Inc., 3230 Jefferson Blvd., Windsor €Tia Nicoletti, Windsor Circus School, 511 Pelissier St., Windsor €Tony and Dani Smith, Garage Gym Strength and Conditioning Inc., 277 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg and 17 Chestnut St., Kingsville And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Tia Nicoletti, Windsor Circus School Fitness and exercise can sometimes be a

drag, though we all know it’s necessary to live a healthy lifestyle. Thankfully, there are many new and exciting options when it comes to getting physical these days, and businesses boasting ways to make fitness fun! One such local example is the Windsor Circus School, owned by Tia Nicoletti and Joe Jelasic. The business is an independently operated aerial arts, acrobatics and circus program operating in downtown Windsor. “We also have students from Detroit frequently attend,” Nicoletti reports. Opened in 2017, the school was created to serve as the region’s hub for circus arts, movement education and physical literacy. “Windsor Circus School offers a full range of classes and training for the beginner right through to the professional level,” Nicoletti describes.

“The school offers students of all ages the opportunity to experience the art of circus through professional, instructor directed classes.” Their business is founded in health and wellness. Each semester, staff members are given a free pass for a full semester of one aerial class — which are their highest priced classes — as well as access to unlimited ground classes, open gyms and cross-training activities “to spark new interest and kindle desire to branch off and learn something new,” she explains.

Nicoletti also leads a rehabilitation program

At Windsor Circus School Tia Nicoletti aims to get her clients “shipshape” with interesting ways to stay fit! Photo courtesy of Joe Symchyshyn.

to help with previous injuries the instructors may have sustained and prevent new injuries by instruction and demonstration in proper form and application of techniques.

“Additionally, Windsor Circus School has one EMT, two nurses and two physical therapists on our staff to assist with any injuries or rehabilitation that arises,” she adds. “All instructors are CPR and AED trained and certified and we require annual renewals for the safety of our employees and students.” Nicoletti is certified in Levels 1 and 2 for gymnastics artistic foundations, theory and practical, as well as trampoline

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foundations, theory and practical. The types of training they cover include: functional, aerial lyra, aerial silks, contortion, stretch, tumbling and handstands (refer to: WindsorCircusSchool.com). “They have chosen to move. Why not make it fun?” says Nicoletti of her clients and her unique fitness facility. And this fitness instructor is literally “rising to the challenge” and can have you flying high on the trapeze! She mentions they consistently get clients who believe they are unable to attain the goal of being on an aerial apparatus. However, she points out “It’s my job to ensure everyone knows they can achieve anything they put effort into.” There are membership rates at Windsor Circus School and they offer both private and group classes.

Nominator Brianna P. comments, “Tia has gone above and beyond to find the exact vocabulary and technique to train her students in such a unique cross between art and fitness.” Judge McVeety echoes these comments. “Everything Tia does at the Windsor Circus School promotes health, and it brings such a unique scenario to the city,” says McVeety. “It appeals to anyone that doesn’t think they fit in to the fitness world. It’s a really cool new experience and I think it’s brilliant.”

Judge Goulet abstained from voting in this category due to a bias.

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Treasure Chest bullet: © Can Stock Photo/ClaireEv4

14.€“The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2019”

RETAIL

(*no national chains/non-profits allowed)

(Open to all retailers with good prices, fantastic customer service and selection) *No on-line businesses could participate nor could any nominees in categories #15 to #19.

The nominees are . . . €Anne’s On The Avenue, 1695 Manning Rd., Tecumseh €Beatnik Art Supplies Inc., 224 Erie St. West, Windsor €Caché Boutique, 5975 Malden Rd., Unit #3, LaSalle €Cartoon Kingdom, 2001 Provincial Rd., Windsor €Dressed By An Olive, 366 Manning Rd., Unit B, Tecumseh and 3865 Dougall Ave., Windsor €Essex Appliance Centre, 76 Talbot St. South, Essex €FAKEit! Spray Tan And Beauty Bar, 12365 Tecumseh Rd. East, Unit B, Tecumseh €Flowers By Design, 1936 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor €Ginger’s House Of Flowers & Gifts, 61 King St. West, Harrow €Great Presentations, 5975 Malden Rd., LaSalle €Green Envy, 1277 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor €Interrobang Vintage, 530 Pelissier St., Windsor €Little Foot Foods, 1404 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Nana’s Bakery, 2936 Dominion Blvd., Windsor €Plant Joy, 5622 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor €Sunsations Tanning and Resort Wear, 46 Talbot St. North, Essex

brought to you by

TecumsehMall.com €Tantalize Tanning Lounge, 5844 Malden Rd., LaSalle 2635 Howard Ave., Windsor €The Bloomin’ Gardener, 6673 8th Concession, Oldcastle €The Hag Shack, 1187 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Whiskeyjack Boutique, 55 Maiden Lane, Windsor €White Feather Holistic Arts, 1350 Ottawa St., Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . . dressed by an Olive You’ve heard of wine tasting, but what about olive oil tasting? Dressed by an Olive’s International Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Room operates much like a wine tasting room, but instead of tasting wines you taste various olive oils and balsamic vinegars. According to Owners Daniel and Merja S. Avena, each olive has a name, country of origin, and sensory evaluation is employed (does it appeal to all five senses) just like a wine-grape. “Our supplier goes to great lengths to ensure we

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Generally you might “test the water” in certain situations, but dressed by an Olive Owners, Daniel and Merja S. Avena, hope you will taste test the olive oil at either of their two locations!

Photo courtesy of Stephanie Bernard.

get the highest quality olive oils,” say the couple. “They do third party lab testing twice to ensure the quality of the olive oil is not compromised.” This is done once it is picked from the tree and again once it is transported to the store. Daniel and Merja’s passion for olives began in 2012 on a trip to Palm Springs, California, after which they quit their jobs in Vancouver and moved back home to open their shop in Tecumseh later that year. “Daniel and I pride ourselves on creating a fun, informative personalized shopping experience with excellent customer service, so we go above and beyond to try to change people’s oil ways,” Merja states. “It’s time for an oil change Essex County and we are here to educate, inform and have fun to discover what fresh olive oil is all about!”

Not only is fresh olive oil delicious, but the health benefits of consuming it are proven, compared to refined grocery store brands.

According to Judge McVeety, “When you go to either of these locations it is an experience as you are tasting extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegars continually in order to taste their differences.”

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Judge Meehan adds, “They are having people try healthier items as olive oil and balsamic have many benefits in a Mediterranean diet, which lowers the risks of heart attack and stroke.” The store also stocks speciality food products such as Ocean Wise seafood, condiments, ready to bake pastas, 100% grass fed beef, items from local businesses and more, with plenty of gift baskets to choose from too. For more information visit their website: DressedByAnOlive.com.

15.€“First Class Second € Hand Boutique”

(It’s the real deal here. The consignment or resale shop that surprises its shoppers with great finds in clothing, purses, toys, books etc., at fantastic prices!)

The nominees are . . . €Bump, Baby & Beyond, Maternity & Children’s Consignment Shop, 1775 Sprucewood Ave., LaSalle €Closet Cravings Upscale Consignment Boutique & Gift Shop, 11962 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh €Deja Vu New 2, 111 Sandwich St. South, Unit 104, Amherstburg €Formally Yours Upscale Consignment, 5614 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor €Gumballs & Overalls, 221 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg €Harrow Antique And Collectible Centre, 15 King St. West, Harrow €Holland Consignment Shoppe & Auction House, 1408 Ottawa St., Windsor €Little Gems Children’s Consignment Boutique, 11958 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh €Rhyan’s Mess, 5440 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor

€Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop, 818 Ottawa St., Windsor €Timeless Treasures, 1747 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Rhyan’s Mess Open since 2012, Rhyan’s Mess (on the web at: RhyansMess.com) provides high-end consignment sales for women’s clothing, shoes, purses and accessories. They carefully select items in “like-new” condition purchased in the last three years focusing on speciality products. “We consider any retail brand or high-end luxury brand that is not available to purchase in Windsor, a speciality product,” indicates Owner/ Operator Mackenzie Murphy who named the shop after her daughter’s eclectic style and crazy patterned outfits. “For example, it could be anything from Gucci, Chanel and Louis Vuitton to fast fashion brands like Zara, J. Crew and Club Monaco, all which are not available at the mall or other retail outlets locally.” Judge Goulet points out the prices are more than fair and “this shop gives the average consumer a chance to purchase designer items they might not necessarily be able to afford elsewhere.” And don’t let the name, Rhyan’s Mess, fool you . . . this is a clean and sleek environment and no chaos. Customers are treated like family, as well. “We have gained some very strong relationships with so many of them and we are eager to continue to build trust,” states Murphy. Much of the challenge of resale comes from the fact the outfits aren’t cookiecutter or predetermined. These outfits must be assembled, which Murphy’s staff of nine dedicated employees is more than happy to do. “We have a knack for identifying current trends and offer clever ways to merchandise, present, educate and inform customers,” she says. “Due to the items being sold, education of brands and their value, a lot of fashion background and research is required, which is why the staff are always training

“An ocean” of high-end, luxury brands at a reasonable price await you at Rhyan’s Mess, owned by Mackenzie Murphy (pictured at her Riverside area shop), including deals like buy one, get one 50% off on “Wardrobe Wednesday”! Photo by Della Jones-Goulet.

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on current trends as well as pricing and brand awareness in the fashion industry.”

Nominator Shelley P. writes, “They go beyond organization as each rack is colour coordinated by size and style. The shop layout is extraordinary, making it extremely easy to find the exact treasure, and the 10 others, you came in to find! I’m always impressed by the brands and designer items she has in store.” And according to Jodie K., “Rhyan’s Mess is a wonderful upscale consignment shop in a great location. There are always great deals and finds. The owner is simply amazing and is very picky about the types of things she accepts.” And just in case you need a little more proof on our winner and its popularity among shoppers, the successful store has already spun off into The Rack by Rhyan’s Mess, located right next door at 5420 Wyandotte Street East.

16.€“Simply Sew € Amazing Supply Co.”

If you love to knit, crochet or make quilts this business keeps you in stitches with

the best products around and maybe even offers lessons as well.)

The nominees are . . . €Ella Quilts, 12052 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Little Sheep Yarn Boutique, 1505 Ottawa St., Windsor €Pretty Skeins, 471 Pelissier St., Windsor €Quilting Confections, 3393 County Rd. 42, Windsor €Rose Cottage Quilt Shoppe, 580 County Rd.10 (Middle Side Rd.), Amherstburg And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Little Sheep Yarn Boutique Opened in August 2018 by Owners Susan Garrett, Kate Rosser-Davies and Andrea Adam, the Little Sheep Yarn Boutique sells a variety of high quality natural fibres in a myriad of beautiful colours from local hand dyed to larger brand names and carries an assortment of 100 percent superwash wool (great for kids) to wool/cashmere blends, alpaca, cotton and acrylics. “We offer a personalized service from helping our customer figure out what yarn they need for a project to helping with colour choices,” says Garrett. “We wind up skeins of yarn our

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The Owners of Little Sheep Yarn Boutique search from “sea to shining sea” to make sure you receive the best products at the best value at their shop.

Photo courtesy of Little Sheep Yarn Boutique.

customers purchase so they can work with the yarn as soon as they get home and we also offer the service of winding yarn not bought at our shop, for a small fee.” They also carry everything from sock or fingering weights to super chunky yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks and a variety of accessories for knitting and/or crocheting. What’s more, they offer both private and class lessons in both knitting and crocheting along with socials on Wednesday evenings and Thursday afternoons! For Garrett, customer service is a top priority. “We help customers find the yarn they are looking for even if we do not carry it in our store,” she explains.

“If we can locate it elsewhere for them or order it in, that helps them immensely.”

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If they do not have a particular yarn they will try to provide the customer with an equivalent or substitution yarn. “I find it very fascinating that what once started as a hobby has now turned into a successful business for the owners,” Judge Fox expresses.

“Little Sheep Yarn Boutique offers quality products and provides an opportunity for its customers to socialize with others who share their passion for fibre arts. They even have a 100 year old sock knitting machine that is used in the store!” For more information, visit the store or check out their website: LittleSheepYarn.com.

17. €“Perfect Present € Palace”

(No matter what the occasion is and how picky those people are on your shopping list, this gift shop/artist market stocks plenty of products guaranteed to put a smile on every face.)

The nominees are . . . €Cindy’s Home And Garden, 585 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville €D’s Fabulous Finds, 76 Main St. East, Kingsville €Priscilla’s Presents, 175 King St. West, Harrow €Urban Art Market, 548 Chilver Rd., Windsor and 19 Chestnut St., Kingsville And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Urban Art Market Want to find local crafts and original gifts that are sure to satisfy everyone on your gift list? Urban Art Market, is an upscale boutique style gift shop with locations in Windsor and Kingsville, offering numerous unique items for sale by Windsor Essex artisans like Ani & Fabi (the Biz X Award

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You may think you found “Treasure Island” when you shop at the Urban Art Market! Anissa Noakes (shown inside the Kingsville location) and her team of 55 local artists can pretty much guarantee you find the perfect present here. From jewellery, pottery, home goods and wood products to children’s clothing, toys, accessories, paintings, photography, graphic t-shirts, bath/body items, pet accessories and more. Photo by Rod Denis.

winner for “Outstanding New Business of 2018”), Tagged it Paper Co., Northshore Quilting Co. and plenty more! Open six days per week, it is Windsor’s first 100% locally-crafted gift store where items are merchandised to provide the best experience for customers. Between the two locations, the markets are manned by the 55 local artisans who create the unique items available for sale. “By employing the artists who stock the store, with many one-of-a-kind creations, customers have the opportunity to meet the makers of the many handmade goods and artists can build a rapport with lovers of their work,” says Owner Anissa Noakes, who opened the Windsor location in January 2016 with Kingsville opening up more recently in March of 2019. “The Urban Art Market is more than just a place to sell our products. It has become a place where the community comes together to support local

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artisans.” The boutique carries products such as pottery, jewellery, home goods, greeting cards, photography, knits and baby gifts, from $5 to $325. “The selection of our artist’s items are unique and one of a kind,” explains Noakes. “If there is something in particular a customer is looking for, most of our artists take customer orders to truly customize and produce made-to-order treasures.” They also offer customers the ability to find out exactly how a product is made and where the materials are from, as well as the chance to meet the artist who made the craft for you. “By opening our store, we have given the city a chance to see how a gift shop can be more than just trends,” Noakes believes. “Each artist’s skills are growing and their products evolving, so our customers get to see that each time they come in.” Keep up with the markets on: Facebook.com/UrbanArtMarket.

18.€“The Sharp Dressed € Man’s Casual Store”

(For those dress down days at the office or family outings when men need casual, fashionable items like shirts, pants and shorts sold by a staff with a passion for fashion.)

The nominees are . . . €67 Richmond Men’s Fashion Clothing, 178 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg and 1614 Lesperance Rd., Unit 6A, Tecumseh €Freeds, 1526 Ottawa St., Windsor €Milana’s Menswear, 46 Erie St. South, Leamington €Towne Shoppe, 56 Richmond St., Amherstburg And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

67 Richmond Men’s Fashion Clothing When it comes to men’s fashion, styles have remained consistent over the years. In order to stand out as a premier menswear store, retailers must instead focus on the details.

67 Richmond (67Richmond.com) with two locations – Amherstburg (open since 1986) and Tecumseh (open since 1995) – is an

Even “Aquaman” knows that at 67 Richmond clothes make the man. At the Amherstburg location he can find new casual looks for fall and winter fashions such as sweaters by Fellows United, jeans by 34 Heritage and shirts by Soul of London. Photo courtesy of Taylor Lanoie.

independent men’s apparel retailer focusing on “middle to better” men’s fashion (from casual weekend wear to custom made suits) with an emphasis on quality, form and function. Nominator Charlie H. writes 67 Richmond offers a great selection of brand

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names and high-end designers, in a large range of sizes. “Their inventory includes collections from Bugatti and designer jeans, plus there are fantastic sales at different times throughout the year with incredible savings on higher end clothing,”

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he believes. As their products range from casual wear to formal, prices vary. Their highly trained staff of five delivers their customers superior product knowledge, fit, fashion and function. “Training of staff is something that is very important to me,” says Owner Peter Leardi, who has 34 years of experience in the industry. “Because we are a small staff, all staff training is done by me personally and it is done ‘on the floor.’

I will often review with an associate how they handled a sale and offer some advice.”

Staff training is very essential because excellent customer service is a priority in retail and Leardi takes it seriously giving extra perks to his shoppers whenever possible. 67 Richmond offers after-hours appointments, office calls for clients, purchase deliveries, shirt pressing, wardrobe consultation, one-day tailoring and even provides refreshments and snacks. “I like to be in touch with my customer base,” comments Leardi. “Most of my customers have my personal cell phone number and I receive several texts a week from them for various reasons. I don’t know if other owners give out their personal cell phone number, but it has worked out tremendously well for me.” Obviously, Leardi is more than willing to go above and beyond for his customers. “One Saturday morning last fall before work I drove to a customer’s house,” he gives as an example. “It was his wedding day and he and his groomsmen had gathered there to get ready. I went there and knotted all the ties for him and the wedding party.”

How’s that for service!

19.€“Ethnic Market € Making A World € Of Difference” (Windsor Essex is made up of many different cultures — Mexican, Indian, Italian, Chinese, Polish and more. This market sells grocery items and/or ethnic products and is a little piece of home for local immigrants.) *No restaurants or farmers’ markets were included, and only those with retail storefronts could participate.

The nominees are . . . €DeMarco’s Fine Foods, 1349 Grand Marais Rd. West, Yorktown Plaza, Windsor €Mexico Lindo Latin American Food Market, 4611 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor €Modern Meat Market, 1320 Wyandotte St. West, Windsor

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€Multifood Supermarket, 799 Crawford Ave., Windsor €Romano’s Specialty Meats & Italian Deli, 241 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Romano’s Specialty Meats & Italian Deli Situated on one of the main streets of Amherstburg and preparing to celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2020, Romano’s Speciality Meats & Italian Deli offers both local and imported groceries, olive oil, cookies, Italian pastas, fresh local meat and deli items. Their famous Italian-style shishkabobs and roasted porchetta (pig) are prepared by Co-Owner and Butcher Claudio Mancini (son of the original owner) — a recipe practiced in his home town in Italy and passed down to him by his father, Pantaleone Mancini — and their homemade lasagna and sauce is made

by Co-Owner Anna Mancini (Claudio’s wife). According to Claudio, “People who enter our store consistently comment on the fantastic atmosphere, reminiscent of their wholesome and traditional country of origin. We are establishing this unique atmosphere for all to enjoy and embrace.”

Other popular services include made to order panini sandwiches, antipasto, meat and cheese platters and gourmet gift baskets (Facebook.com/Butcher.Romanos).

“We are built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and decades of family tradition and values,” Claudio and Anna stress. “We have upheld an ethical and cultural standard that can only be found in a wholesome town such as Amherstburg, although our roots and values go back to the small town of Lettomanopello, Italy.”

Since opening in 1970, their friendly and honest service is their recipe for success.

“We tell our employees that we always appreciate our customers and we get to know them as they continue their loyalty to us,” the couple explain. Their determination to make customers happy and provide quality, authentic food and goods coupled with honest and dedicated service are the fundamental pillars of their business.

Whether it is delivering a warm, delectable porchetta to a wedding reception, or simply going the extra mile to find a favourite item for customers shopping at the deli, they are thrilled to be able to be a part of these enjoyable experiences. “This is a longstanding local business in a quaint town with great fresh meats at very reasonable prices,” mentions Judge Meehan. “You want fresh made sausages, kabobs, or any Italian meats, this is the place to go! The staff is super friendly and you can experience a bit of Italian cuisine with their large product selection.”

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20.€“Restaurant € That’s Hot, Hot, € Hot For 2019”

HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT (*no chains/non-profits allowed; exception #22)

brought to you by (Can be a new or an existing restaurant/bar & grill or food truck that offers exceptional cuisine, fair prices and has a unique, trendy atmosphere.) *Those in #20 could not also be nominated in #21 and vice versa.

The nominees are . . . € 1840 Social Resto + Bar, 1840 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor € Bacchus Ristorante, 614 Erie St. East, Windsor € Bistro 42 at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, 130 County Rd. 50 East, Colchester € Ciao Pasta Bar, 839 Erie St. West, Windsor € Eastern Flavours, 4072 Walker Rd., Windsor € Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro, 420 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor € Green Bean Cafe, 2320 Wyandotte St. West, Windsor € Grove Brew House, 12 Main St. East, Kingsville € HomeSlice Pizzeria, 1117 Erie St. East, Windsor € KOMA Restaurant, 3090 Dougall Ave., Windsor € La Rucola, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh € Nola’s (A Taste Of New Orleans), 1526 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor € Nooch (A Vegan Eatery), 350 Cabana Rd. East, Windsor € On A Roll Sushi & Sliders, 63 Pitt St. East, Windsor € Souq Mediterranean Restaurant, 1-2651 Howard Ave., Windsor € Stone House 1891 Craft Bar & Kitchen, 1115 W Shore Rd, Pelee Island

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WE-bingo.com € Tabouli By Eddy’s Lebanese Cuisine, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Unit #5, Tecumseh € Taka Japanese Sushi & Thai, 5011 Legacy Park Drive, Windsor € The Grand Cantina, 1000 Drouillard Rd., Windsor € THE WRECK At Colchester Harbour, 220 Jackson St., Colchester € Thyme Kitchen, 100 Ouellette Ave., Windsor € Vito’s Pizzeria, 1731 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor € Zaytoun Mediterranean Cuisine, 5969 Malden Rd., LaSalle And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Bacchus Ristorante This is not just fine dining . . . at Bacchus Ristorante it’s fabulous dining in an old world, classy ambiance with a capacity of 50 in the dining room and 20 on the patio. Here you can experience exquisite continental Italian cuisine in a comfortable, luxurious setting created and meticulously crafted by sister company, BetterMade Cabinets. Meals range from pasta and seafood to a steakhouse menu —

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“Set sail” to comfort and relaxation as you dine on fine Italian cuisine at Bacchus Ristorante. The ambiance conveys a luxurious, old world feel featuring custom millwork and cabinetry completed by BetterMade Cabinets. As proven by this interior shot, the entire atmosphere places an emphasis on celebrating, relaxing and entertaining.

featuring a 26.5 oz Tomahawk Steak — and everything in between, including pierogies with a meatball! Diners can also choose from items like Grilled Salmon or Lamb, Roasted Sea Bass, Lobster Ravioli and the Chef’s weekly recommendations. Opened in 2017 by entrepreneur Vern Myslichuk (Owner of BetterMade Cabinets), their exceptional customer service is proven by accommodating all dietary restrictions, last minute reservations when possible, great service and providing an incredible meal. According to Jodi Bennett, Manager at Bacchus, their goal is to always go over the top on everything, from the service to the food. “The secret to our success at Bacchus is our attention to fine details,” Bennett stresses. “Our repeat customers, new customers, outstanding service and fabulous Chefs all contribute to our success.” Judge McVeety comments, “The food, service and atmosphere at Bacchus Ristorante are second to none. While Bacchus has been part of the Erie Street restaurant scene for a few years, they

21.€“Delectable Diner To Start The Day”

On the menu at Bacchus Ristorante there are plenty of “fish in the sea” such as the Seafood Caponata with Grilled Shrimp, Calamari, Mussels and Clams in a savoury Tomato Sauce.

(Whether you like your eggs over-easy or scrambled, crave an omelette or blueberry pancakes, this diner offers good value for the money, plenty of choices on their breakfast menu and friendly servers ready to wish you good morning!)

continue to evolve and reinvent themselves, adding events, happy hour specials, live music and entertainment. The owner has brought in an amazing Chef, so every meal will always be outstanding. Add the incredible staff to the great food and atmosphere and you have an unforgettable dining experience.” The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner during the week with the addition of brunch on the weekend.

The hours of operation are: Monday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m. to close; Saturday 10 a.m. until close; and Sunday 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. In addition, catering is available and the Bacchus team

The nominees are . . . € D.E.-lish Diner & Convenience, 2569 County Rd. 27, Woodslee € Deb’s Place, 1387 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor € Devolli’s, 5275 Walker Rd., Oldcastle € Grill Twenty, 20 University Ave. East, Windsor € Hi-Ho Diner, 2885 Howard Ave. and 3691 Walker Rd., Windsor € Marina’s Lil Café, 7 Main St. East, Kingsville € Matter Of Taste, 1167 Lauzon Rd., Windsor € Michigan Diner, 7435 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor € Route 42, 2825 County Rd. 42, Windsor € Skippy’s Restaurant, 954 University Ave. West, Windsor € Stacks, 1950 Lauzon Rd., Windsor € Taloola Café, 396 Devonshire Rd., Windsor € Tecumseh Diner And Subs, 11977 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh

And for the “landlubbers” there are excellent meat dishes including the 26.5 oz bone in Tomahawk Steak with Mushroom Risotto and Herb Butter sauce.

Photos courtesy of Bacchus.

And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Michigan Diner Feeling nostalgic for the good old days? Then check out the Michigan Diner! This cozy 90 seat restaurant has provided great service and great food since 2017. Judge Kerluck comments, “The ‘50’s style décor makes for a nostalgic and fun eating experience and the shredded hash browns are the best!”Popular breakfast items such as the “Michigan Diner Breakfast,” which includes two strips of

can work closely with customers to develop a menu to suit their event. (To find out more information see: LowMartinMansion.com/ home-page-bacchus).

Judge Meehan had a bias in this category and did not participate in any conversation about it or vote on it.

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The Owners of the Michigan Diner in east Windsor “run a tight ship” with quick service, friendly servers and good home style cooking. The décor of the diner features sparkly red and silver booths and artwork depicting the history of Windsor from Boblo Island, the Ambassador Bridge, Ouellette Avenue and the famous Hi-Ho restaurant. There are also several pictures on the walls of Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and The Beatles, plus a jukebox that plays music from the radio. Photos by Jack Rosenberg.

bacon, two sausage links and one piece of peameal bacon, three eggs, toast and choice of home fries or hash browns, for $9.99 (add a pancake or French toast for $1.99) are available daily. Omelettes (Western; Bacon, Swiss, Mushroom; Mexican, Greek) are another popular option and come with toast and choice of potato starting at $8.99; also popular is Steak and Eggs for $12.99. Or you can try out their Eggs Benny with choice of potato for $10.99!

Have we made you hungry yet? Other offthe-menu breakfast specials include deep fried French Toast with your choice of meat for $9.99 and the “Trash Omelette” — all meats and veggies with toast and choice of potato for $10.99. Nomination forms on the Biz X website were filled with glowing reviews on their delicious home cooked, hearty meals with generous portions and reasonable prices, served by the friendliest staff of waiters in town. The good food is matched only by their outstanding relationships with customers. “Our target is all individuals including families, couples, groups, seniors, residents of Windsor, as well as those from different cities,” say John and Loreta Gojci, Owners of

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22.€“The Most € Wonderful Event € Of The Year”

“Shiver me timbers” . . . it’s the perfect plate of great grub for the most important meal of the day!

Pictured “from the galley” of the Michigan Diner is the “Diner Breakfast” — with two eggs; a choice of bacon, sausage or ham; home fries and toast for just $7.99 (sub in peameal bacon for an extra $1).

the Michigan Diner. “We have several customers who are regulars and the staff knows their names, as well as their regular orders. This type of customer/employee relationship makes the diner feel more like a family.” For John and Loreta the key to their success is great communication and respect for everyone throughout the entire diner. Keep in mind, lunch and dinner also are served here during their hours of operation Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.

View: MichiganDinerWindsor.com to see a complete breakfast menu, information about their catering services and more.

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(Annual runs, golf tournaments, motorcycle rides etc.; if they fundraise for a charity, brownie points are given!) *Non-profits and charities could participate as a special exception, as could fairs, festivals and trade shows.

The nominees are . . . € “A Garden Tea Party”, Downtown Mission of Windsor, DowntownMission. com/event/a-garden-tea-party € “Amherstburg Uncommon Festival”, Amherstburg Tourism & Culture Office, VisitAmherstburg.ca € “Build A Dream Career Discovery Expo”, WeBuildaDream.com, Windsor € “Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure” for breast cancer research, Facebook.com/WindsorRun, Windsor € “Carrousel of the Nations”, Multicultural Council of Windsor & Essex County, CarrouselOfNations.com, Windsor € “Cops Care For Kids”, Windsor Essex Children’s Aid Foundation, WECAF.on.ca€

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€ “Family Father’s Day Event”, Fantastic Fathers Community Group, Facebook.com/FantasticFathers, Windsor € “Mingle For Maryvale”, Windsor Stigma Enigma, StigmaEnigma.ca € “Perch-a-Palooza”, Viewpointe Estate Winery, ViewpointeWinery.com, Harrow € “Reading of the Shepherd”, The Canadian Historical Aircraft Association, CH2a.ca, Windsor € Sts. Vladimir & Olga Ukrainian Catholic Church’s Annual Golf Tournament for Hospice of Windsor & Essex County Inc., StsVladimirAndOlgaChurch.com/golftournament, Windsor € “Superhero Takeover” for Epilepsy SWO and Cystic Fibrosis Canada, Essex-Kent Chapter, Facebook.com/events/514695299337654 € “W.E. Shop Local Show”, Small Business Centre, Windsor WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com/show € “Windsor Comedy Festival”, Facebook.com/WindsorComedyFestival, Windsor € “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest”, WEPrideFest.com € “Woofaroo~Pet Fest”, Woofaroo.com, Amherstburg

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And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

“Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” Every August, as the heat of summer kicks into high gear, residents in the region can count on the “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” (“WEPF”) to throw an amazing event.

The festival (taking place the Wednesday through Sunday following the Civic Holiday at various locations in the city) has grown steadily over the years and draws over 6,600 on the weekend with the parade becoming one of, if not, the largest parades in the area.

“WEPF” was founded over 27 years ago in 1992 as a registered non-profit organization.

According to David Lenz, current President of the presiding Board of Directors, the organization was created as a way to “raise awareness of discrimination, cultivate a sense of belonging and community and promote equality.” Those involved in the organization believe that discrimination can best be broken down by bringing diverse groups of people together in an atmosphere of universally enjoyed experiences. Each year, the organization attempts to do this by hosting “WEPF” where individuals come together to celebrate the unique spirit and culture of the local Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Intersex, Queer, Questioning and Two Spirited (LGBTQ2S) community. The schedule includes: a flag raising at City Hall,

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bowling, special shows (with an admission cost), drag performers, music, children’s activities, educational seminars, a main event site (Lanspeary Park on Ottawa Street) with live entertainment, food/beverage and retail/service vendors supporting the local economy and of course, the parade. And the general public is always welcome to attend any part of the festivities! The audience composition of the “Pride Fest” weekend includes literally every demographic group.

As Lenz indicates, “In fact, current estimates place nearly 50% of our audience as those who do not self-identify as members of the LGBTQ2S community. In our view, this indicates our philosophy of bringing diverse groups of people together in celebration is working.” Nominator Jennifer M. writes, “I am so proud to live in a city that has the dedication of many volunteers to make this festival bigger and better each year. The amount of time spent organizing this event and the dedication of the volunteers on site ensure everyone is welcomed and has a fabulous experience.” And there is also a charity aspect to the event including the “George Hannah Memorial Scholarship” established in 2015 in partnership with St. Clair College that provides $1,000 to any student or $500 to each of any two students, who help promote equality and diversity in

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the community. As well, they directly fund programs organized by WE Trans Support and have donated $2,000 including: the AIDS Committee of Windsor, Family Services Windsor-Essex, Windsor Youth Centre, and area school Gay-Straight Alliances.

Find out further details on the organization and the festival online at: WEpridefest.com or visit their office at 536 Pelissier Street, downtown Windsor.

Judge Barker abstained from voting in this category due to a conflict.

23.€“Everyone’s € Cup Of Tea”

(The Tea Room to enjoy that perfect cuppa tea with a friend. They must specialize in selling tea to drink on site, hot or cold, but can sell coffee too. Deciding factors can include selection of teas, baked goods, and number of tables.)

The nominees are . . . € Annabelle’s Tea Room, 76 Main St. East, Kingsville

€ Lakeside Bakery Deli Café, 286 Erie St. South, Leamington € Teacups & Crowns, 591 Erie St. East, Windsor € Windsor Tea Emporium, 1284 Ottawa St., Windsor And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Windsor Tea Emporium At the Windsor Tea Emporium, customers are greeted with a bright, clean and chic experience. Owned by CEO/Founder Mary Christine Smith, the business was started seven years ago in September 2012, but it wasn’t until May 5, 2018 that she opened a storefront.

“We shop the world to bring in only the best quality teas for our customers,” she claims.

“Your first smell and taste will tantalize your taste buds with every sip!” As a purveyor of premium loose-leaf tea, the emporium currently carries over 90 different blends.

For example, you can enjoy a cup of Caramel Delight, Baked Pear, Chocolate Bliss Chai or other seasonal offerings throughout the year.

Smith prides herself on the new developments the emporium has made for Windsor tea lovers. “Not only does the emporium carry a full line of tea accessories, just recently, we added Tea Slushies, and Nitro Tea to the menu, two new tea-based drinks,” she says. “This is the first appearance of items like these in the Windsor tea market!” Customers seem to be pleased with her selection of beverages with nominator Annette M. writing, “They have amazing quality products, great customer service, fantastic prices and a beautiful storefront.” However, contrary to the business name, tea isn’t the emporium’s only beverage.

In fact, they also sell specialty coffee drinks.

Customers are welcome to sit inside while they sample the various teas as the emporium can seat up to four people. In addition there is a little bit of shopping that can be done in the same visit as well. Last year Smith launched their bath and body collection that includes all natural, tea-infused products made locally just for the Windsor Tea Emporium.

Perusing through their wares, you’ll find quite the assortment of bath bombs, sugar scrubs, whipped body butters, solid lotion bars, lip balms and soaps. After hours, the emporium hosts a number of special events where they collaborate with local businesses.

Thus allowing visitors a social and relaxing environment (paint nights, macramé and yoga) where they can try something new, and drink some premium tea and enjoy Scones, Devonshire Cream and Tea Shortbread Cookies. Visit: WindsorTeaEmporium.com for upcoming events; view the different types of tea for sale and keep up with this local company as it brews up with success. Smith is currently looking for space to accommodate a larger seating area.

WINDSOR’S TOP CHOICE FOR MUSIC LESSONS Piano,voice, guitar and violin lessons Home of Jingles4Juniors Mom & Tot Group Music Classes

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24.€“Happy Campers’ € Heaven” (When you want to rough it, the cottage/cabin rental business or a local campground to visit.

Consider if they have electrical hookups, water, restrooms, nearby attractions for entertainment, outdoor activities on site like a swimming pool, beach, fishing etc.) *No hotels/motels/B&Bs could be included.

The nominees are . . . € Campers Cove Campground, 21097 Campers Cove Rd., Wheatley € Pleasant Valley Family Campground, 808 County Rd. 20 West, Kingsville € Sturgeon Woods Campground & Marina, 1129 Mersea Rd. C, RR#1 Point Pelee, Leamington € Wildwood Golf & RV Resort, 11112 11th Concession Rd., Essex And the€Biz X€Award goes to . . .

Pleasant Valley Family Campground Since 2008, Owners John and Leanne Henderson of Pleasant Valley Family Campground have provided hydro and water camping sites for one night, weekends,

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Spread across 17 acres of rolling hills, Pleasant Valley Family Campground is surrounded by beautiful streams for hours of exploration and relaxation. With all this peace and quiet plus a restaurant and swimming pool on site, who wouldn’t enjoy being “shipwrecked” here for a week! Photo courtesy of Pleasant Valley Family Campground.

weekly and monthly camping as well as hydro, water and sewer sites for seasonal camping on its 17 acres. “Our campground is unique with our landscape having rolling hills and is surrounded by trees and creeks,” state Manager Frank Clarke and Assistant Manager Lori Clarke. “The Green Way trail runs behind our park for easy access to neighbouring towns.” There is also a store on site, children’s park and recreation room with a pool table. Plus, the campground is close to many tourist attractions like the Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary, Point Pelee National Park, Kingsville wineries and more. And for those days when campers do not feel like cooking, their restaurant offers a full menu to choose from such as Rueben sandwiches,

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Wings, Chicken Tenders and Chicken Club sandwiches, just to name a few. And they’re also serving breakfast! As for entertainment, the campground holds special events throughout the season such as “Christmas in July,” Halloween, “Yard Sale Days,” crafts for kids, bands perform on long weekends and firework shows are held. “Set in rolling hills with a nice pool and restaurant area, the overnight rate is really reasonable and they have loads of activities,” writes nominator Rachel C. “The new washrooms and shower buildings are spotless! They even have high speed wireless internet. It’s close to home, but you feel a hundred miles away.” Rates vary, so check out their website for prices at: PleasantValleyCampground.net.

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TAKE THE LEAD

“ATHENA Award” Winners Inspire Us All To Achieve Excellence

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

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ecently I had an opportunity to interview€Loretta Stoyka-Henderson,€ a well-known lawyer and community leader.

Although she has been described as a “force to be reckoned with” in her field of law, she has a soft spot and tears up whenever she talks about the ATHENA Scholarship Fund Windsor of which she is President.

The “ATHENA Scholarship Award” lifts up and gives its recipients more confidence, as well as positive pressure to live up to the award.

According to Stoyka, “It raises the bar and there are expectations to speak, continue to develop as a leader and give back to the community. We have never had less than 40 applicants and we are blown away by what they achieve. The selection committee usually leaves feeling we need to step up our own game. The winners are so grounded, globally informed about what is going on in the world and are looking to help others while on their path to achieving their academic goals.”

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Stoyka adds, “I feel safe with these students as our future leaders, they are all involved in what is happening globally on their path to achieving their academic and community goals.”€ At this year’s 20th annual “ATHENA Scholarship Luncheon”€on November 1, 2019,€ Jessica Glazewski (St. Clair College, Child and Youth Care Program); Katherine E. Hirsch€(University of Windsor, Master of Human Kinetics Program) and Kiara Clement (St. Clair College, Protection, Security and Investigation Program); were each awarded $5,000 scholarships. (As a side note, I also had the honour of introducing Canadian€Senator Gwen Boniface€who delivered a “Look at Leadership through the Rear View Window” keynote address).

As the founder of this scholarship program (AthenaScholarshipWindsor.com) Stoyka also brought the “ATHENA Award” to Windsor, which has been a part of the€WindsorEssex Regional Chamber of Commerce

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Loretta Stoyka accepted the prestigious “ATHENA Award” at the “Business Excellence Awards” back in 2015. Photo courtesy of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“Business Excellence Awards” since 1996.

The “ATHENA Award” honours women and men who are recognized for business and professional excellence, for community service, and for mentoring and providing a role model to encourage women to achieve their leadership potential.

Previous “ATHENA Award” recipients include: Katherine Roth, Sandra Stanciu, Dianne Moore, Lee-Anne Doyle, Karen

Behune Plunkett, Denise Hrastovec, Sue Zanin, Mary M.S. Fox, Shirley Linton, Mary Jean Gallagher, Aruna Koushik, Sandra Pupatello, Lynda Monik, Melissa McCormick, Charlotte Loaring, Maureen Lucas, Chantal Vallee, Dr. Michelle Prince, Kay Douglas, Loretta Stoyka, Shelley Fellows, Patti France, Patricia Souilliere and as of 2019, yours truly, Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh.

In 2015, Stoyka received the “ATHENA Award” and the Chamber’s “Lifetime Achievement Award” in 2009 for exemplary, sustained and enduring contribution to the community and has ascended to a level of extraordinary achievement in their business or profession.€ She first heard about the “ATHENA Award” from€ Martha Mertz,€ founder of€ATHENA International,€who was excited at the opportunity to expand into Canada.

“I approached the board and there were only two women at the time so it was not easy — now they have more women than men on the board,” Stoyka reveals. “By the third meeting, I brought Mertz€to the table and it passed.”

Stoyka became involved in the ATHENA International conferences and meetings with women from all over the United States and was inspired to start the scholarship program for men and women between 18 and 30.

The intent is to shine a light on students who excel academically, exhibit extensive community involvement and serve as outstanding leaders, while also assisting other girls and women to achieve a better quality of life and reach their full potential as leaders.

With over 35 years of community service and leadership, Stoyka also founded the Women of Windsor Group (a group of 100 women who raised $700,000 in two months for the Chronic Care Hospital).

She is a specialist in the field of worker’s compensation law and co-authored the first Governance Policy for the€ Ministry of Labour. And Stoyka has chaired many boards including the Windsor Chamber and the Governance Committee of the€Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) of Ontario.

I am sure you will agree, Loretta Stoyka is definitely one Windsor woman on a mission to inspire others in the community to achieve excellence. I look forward to writing about many more inspiring leaders in 2020.

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 email: Sherrilynn@BizXmagazine.com.

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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Thumbs Up On 10 Terrific Years For LD Media

By Joe McParland Photos by Rod Denis

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ccording to the Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s (ISED) website: IC.gc.ca/eic/site/061.nsf/ eng/h_03090.html#figure1, Canada’s most recent statistics, “As of December 2017, the Canadian economy totaled 1.8 million employer businesses. Of these, 1.15 million (97.9 percent) were small businesses . . . and small businesses employed 8.3 million individuals in Canada, or 69.7 percent of the total private labour force.”

It is no secret that small business drives Canada’s economy.

Many of our millennial generation today are emerging from post secondary educational institutions and starting up their own businesses. Unlike their parents, who decades before them entered established work environments, these young people are filled with a vision, determination, self-confidence and skillsets to take risks and go out on their own.

The challenge it presents can be both frightening as well as exhilarating, but it’s one that Leesa St. Pierre, Owner of LDMedia (LDMedia.ca) jumped in with both feet to take the plunge to become an entrepreneur.

Now, in 2019, she celebrates her 10th anniversary as a small business.

This is an impressive feat, since, according to ISED Canada, only 40% of

small businesses survive the 10 year mark.

St. Pierre graduated from the University of Windsor with a degree in Computer Sciences and Multi-Media with a minor in Arts. She doesn’t dispute that she is a “geeky” kind of girl and was one of the few females in the male dominated program. She sees herself as a creative person and wanted to combine her passion for creativity with today’s emerging technology in the cyber world.

Fresh out of university, St. Pierre set up shop in her parents’ home basement in Tecumseh. When she married, she admits her parents were sad to see her leave the family nest — but were also happy to reclaim their basement!

Since getting married she now operates LDMedia out of her family home in Belle River and is also the mother to two year old Mya and five year old Joshua.

When her husband leaves the house for work each day and Joshua is off to school, little Mya says, “Momma goes downstairs to the basement.”

This is code for her that her mother is off to work!

Once again, in a basement location, St. Pierre sits at her desk — next to a very large printer — and is inspired to work up a bit of creative magic for websites, as well as graphic design and printing.

St. Pierre poses with her very first and still long term client Michele Moro (left), Owner of Vintner’s Cellar in Tecumseh (where you can make your own European wines) and her newest client Merja S. Avena (right), Owner of dressed by an Olive, for a photo op during the open house festivities.

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On September 28, 2019 LD Media Owner Leesa St. Pierre hosted an open house to celebrate her success with the community and all her clients who have helped her stay in business all these years.

Ten years ago, her primary business was web design. This was a time where designers needed to know and do extensive and painstaking “coding”.

In time, with the introduction of newer web design platforms that allowed consumers to construct their own websites, she branched out into graphics, printing, custom stationery, wedding invitations, promotional items, and gallery wrapped canvases. All her work is completed on site — none is outsourced.

St. Pierre admits self-employment in a small business in a pretty competitive field, is not a bed of roses. She often gets teased by friends who feign jealousy at her independence in terms of working from home.

Some think she’s able to sit around all day and watch television, but she’s quick to correct that false perception. The television is never on during the day. If she doesn’t work, she doesn’t meet her commitments to clients and, well, the rest is self explanatory.

Like most good and reputable small businesses, St. Pierre attributes her success to her client’s satisfaction and willingness to refer her work to others.

Vintners Cellar; dressed by an Olive and Sportsfest Windsor are just a few of the well known businesses and organizations spreading the word about her services.

It is reviews like this one on: Facebook. com/LDMedia.ca that suggest St. Pierre is sure to be around for a number of other significant anniversary milestones . . .

“Leesa is the absolute nicest person ever.

She worked so well with creating exactly what I wanted. I am so happy with the bridal invitations and wedding invitations she made for me. Thanks for being a part of something so big for my wedding.”

In this edition of Biz X where we celebrate small businesses of Windsor and Essex County and our annual “Biz X Awards Gala”, all of us extend our congratulations to St. Pierre and LDMedia on a successful 10 years and a job well done!

ACCOUNTING COUNTS

Private Company Owners . . .

Take Heed Of Business Risks

By Alison Piccolo, CPA, CA

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dentifying and mitigating risk is a natural part of running a business. And taking the right kinds of risks can reap big rewards.

At the same time, owners need to be aware of potential risks that could seriously harm their enterprise.

Here are three to watch out for. . .

asked such as: Where are those servers actually located? Are they in the United States? Does that make them subject to being subpoenaed by U.S. regulators or litigators? Do you have a business continuity place to handle a cyber-threat to your business operations?

1. Knowledge residing with just one or a few individuals in your company.

In business, knowledge is power. In many smaller companies (and even some large ones), only one or two key people hold essential knowledge about the company’s operations.

Business owners should ensure that they are prepared to lose anyone in the company and still be able to carry on without risking the continuity and profitability of the company. Unexpected holes can be created when employees retire, leave for another position or take a leave of absence for maternity or sickness.

Your organization should have methods in place to ensure that the bench strength of your key management team is sufficient to deal with unexpected departures.

One way to mitigate this risk is cross training of various positions to make sure you have more than one person with knowledge in a particular role — or maintain detailed process descriptions related to roles and responsibilities, so that transition is easier.

“Key man insurance” is one way to reduce some of the potential financial risks.

3. Not paying enough attention to reputational risk.

Part of protecting the value you’ve built in your organization is being aware of reputational risk.

In the age of social media, reputations can be made (or broken) with a few strokes on a keyboard. You need to take the time to step back from the day-to-day operations and make sure that you’ve given it some thought.

Is your company being run and managed in such a way that you’re building a good reputation? Are you consciously managing

your brand? Reputation is your standing in the community. It’s your customer service.

It’s how you take care of your employees and provide a safe work environment. It’s anything and everything.

If you are involved in social media and you’re not aware of what’s being said about your company in that sphere, you may be at great risk of having your brand damaged.

If something goes wrong, you need to have a risk management strategy in place to deal with that. It may involve hiring external people to manage a public relations crisis that a business owner 20 years ago wouldn’t have even had to consider.

When it comes to risk, be aware of your surroundings. It is good practice to set aside some time at regular intervals to assess business risks — beyond your financial and tax compliance risks. Your business doesn’t stand still — it evolves and so does the world around you!

Alison Piccolo is a Chartered Professional Accountant and works for KPMG in Windsor. Alison has 14 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.

2. Lagging behind with technology, or not ensuring your systems are properly backed up.

Especially if you’re a small to mid-sized company, it can be very difficult to keep your technology up to date. However, you may be left behind by the competition if you’re not willing to stay aware of new technological opportunities.

We find that when companies do upgrade the way they are doing things, they realize, “We’re able to do a lot more, and we’re able to do it better.”

As well, you need to ask yourself — are my systems properly backed up? And if so, is the backup on site, or should it be stored remotely in the cloud?

If you do have data stored on cloud sites, there are further questions that need to be B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 1 9

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ask the experts

Better Call Bin There Dump That Before The Wife Dumps You!

By Dave Halliday

Photo courtesy of Ronald Robinson

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lean the garage! Clean the yard! Get rid of that scrap at the side of the house! You admire your wife’s attention to cleanliness and detail, but honestly, when she gets into one of these rants, her voice resembles nails on a chalkboard!

You know that she’s right. You admit you’ve let things go for the last while and nothing would make you happier than hearing that sweet voice that you recall falling for years ago praising your efforts; so you’re a man on a mission!

As you review the sheer magnitude of the task before you, it becomes obvious that this is going to be way more than a few extra bags of garbage at the curb this week. If you want to experience the joy and approval that only your darling wife can provide . . . you’re going to have to call in the experts.

The experts in this case are the folks over at Bin There Dump That working out of 3950 Rhodes Drive in Windsor and on the web at: WindsorBinRental.com. There is also a Chatham location with a Sarnia location opening soon, as well.

Ronald Monaghan, Owner/Operator of the three Bin There Dump That locations mentioned (that are part of a national franchise), has numerous years of experience in the rental industry and entered into the waste bin industry 16 months ago.

He was kind enough to share some insights as to the services his company offers.

What is it you provide? “Bin There Dump That provides residential friendly, roll-off dumpsters for both contractors and homeowners who are doing small to major renovations, clear outs or yard work,” indicates Monaghan. He adds, “The bins have a smaller footprint than most roll-off dumpsters, taking up about the same space as a minivan.”€ Is a company such as yours geared more

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Bin There Dump That serves Windsor and the surrounding area and works with homeowners, contractors or anyone looking for a solution to get rid of unwanted garbage or junk. The bright green bins are available in different sizes and are in great condition and can be placed in your driveway. The Monaghan family (from left, Rick, Richard Sr. and Ronald) are ready to assist their customers with any of their disposal needs.

towards the industrial or residential removal of waste materials?€“We are geared primarily towards residential removal, instead of industrial and we work with many contractors who work in residential areas,” notes Monaghan. “The bins are delivered with one of our trucks affixed with a specialized piece of equipment called a hook-lift.”

What makes your delivery trucks unique?

Monaghan replies, “Our trucks are smaller than the regular tri-axel types you see with most dumpster companies. All of our equipment is designed specifically to be residential friendly.”

Can you assist the client in ensuring they are choosing the right size bin for the job?€ “Every customer will speak with one of our dumpster consultants when they phone to order a bin,” informs Monaghan. “Our consultants will make sure they understand the customer’s requirements and recommend the most appropriate bin size for the project.”

Once the needs are determined what is the next step? “Our consultant will make sure

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the customer receives the correct bin size and then explain the process to the customer,” he describes. “When the bin is delivered it will be clean and the driver will be professional and uniformed.”

How should the ground at the point of bin placement be protected?€“The customers needn’t do anything to protect the ground where the bin will be placed,” advises Monaghan.

“Every time we place a bin, our delivery experts will make sure that no bin ever touches the driveway by utilizing our driveway protection system.”

Do you provide tips and guidelines as to the loading of the bins?€“Our consultant will provide advice to the customer when they are ordering the bin and if the customer is home when the bin is delivered our delivery experts will show the customer how to use the double doors and give some tips to the homeowner for how to best load the bin,” he states. “The bins are available in various sizes, from four to 20 cubic yards in volume.”

Are there any materials that you cannot accept in the bins? “There are some materials like propane tanks, paint, oils, biohazard materials, ammunition and tires — these are the sorts of things that are not allowed to be placed in bins,” lists Monaghan. He cautions, “Refrigerators and freezers should be drained of freon and tagged by a qualified technician so it can be disposed of properly.”€ Well it took a lot of hard work and dedication to the cause, but your de-cluttering efforts have paid off. The garage is pristine and organized, the yard looks amazing, and even that nasty area behind the garage is clutter free.

Your wife is singing your praises and all is good in your world — that is as long as you can keep her away from the attic!

portfolio corner

Age Related Mistakes

By Steven Mayo

It is always important to manage money properly at all ages. Young adults — we’ll call “Group 1” — need to survive the early money management years to set themselves up for their future responsibilities.

Here is the cold hard truth of four financial mistakes from a U.S. survey of Group 1 . . .

• I did not start saving for retirement.

Average age of mistake: 34, average age of recovery: 45.

• I relied too much on my credit card.

Average age of mistake: 36, average age of recovery: 44.

• I didn’t pay my credit card balance each month. Average age of mistake: 35, average age of recovery: 40.

• I did not maintain an adequate emergency fund. Average age of mistake: 32, average age of recovery: 41 These findings are from a poll conducted

by Morning Consult on behalf of New York Life Magazine in August 2019.

As you can see, it takes years to recover from either poor spending habits, misuse of credit cards, or emergencies.

While we cannot predict emergencies, we can control savings being improved and the use of debt in a responsible way.

Too much debt early on in one’s life can greatly reduce financial success in your 30s, 40s and 50s, and impact your retirement plans.

The other group — “Group 2” — is in the driver’s seat.

They have accumulated wealth and have discretionary income, but they have other potential pitfalls to realize, avoid, or overcome. These issues are often determined by who you hang out with. Peer pressure is a powerful thing. Fear of missing out can be overwhelming.

For Advisors such as myself, this can present significant challenges to planning because people can be put off course by short-term influences. Money and the “herd mentality”

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are often at odds with what is suitable for each person or their family circumstances. Often my most important responsibility is to clearly articulate the “new risk” to a portfolio.

It’s important for investors to realize that saying “No” to new ideas is okay. There is always someone who is wealthier than you, and their goals and resources may be very different, as is their risk tolerance and time horizon. If you miss out, you may also have avoided loss and unnecessary stress.

At all stages of life there are financial challenges. Carefully navigating these challenges to avoid mistakes, and maintaining discipline is often the best way to stay on track.

Now to end my column in this double issue, the following two quotes are appropriate for the content I have just presented.

“Making mistakes simply means you are learning faster.” ~ Weston H. Agor “Mistakes are the usual bridge between inexperience and wisdom.” ~ Phyllis Theroux 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.

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AWARD SPOTLIGHT

Leamington District Chamber Of Commerce’s 25th Annual “Business Excellence Awards” Winners Photos by Rod Denis

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2 The Leamington District Chamber of Commerce presented its 25th annual “Business Excellence Awards”, sponsored

by Libro on October 9, 2019 during a dinner and ceremony held at the Leamington Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot Street West.

Find out more about the chamber, their events and view a business directory on: LeamingtonChamber.com.

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All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Congratulations to all the 2019 winners of the Leamington 25th annual “Business Excellence Awards”, photographed in this group shot. Representatives for the following awards are pictured here: “Grow South Essex” — Del Fresco Produce; “Industrial/Manufacturing Excellence” — A.M.A. Horticulture; “Innovation” — Southwestern Ontario Gleaners; “Invest in a World Class Workforce” — Hicks, MacPherson, Iatonna & Driedger LLP; “Small Business Excellence” (under nine employees) — Big Help Business Solutions; “Welcoming Accessibility Award” — Lakeside Produce; “Young Entrepreneur” — Amy Saba of The Branding Loft; “Youth Excellence” — Ruben Weber, Leamington District Secondary School; “Sponsor Choice — Greg Price of Valvoline Leamington, Kingsville, Essex

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and the “Alf Bennie” Award recipients — Kevin and Christie Reid.

2. A record sold-out crowd of 400, made up of members of the Windsor Essex business community, were in attendance, including Daniela and Lucas George (Co-Owner of Leamington Collision, Ltd.); Nancy George, Co-owner of Windsor Beauty Supply and Kevin George, Co-Owner of Leamington Collision, Ltd. Certain winners along with their award sponsors are shown in photos #3 to 7.

3. Donny Pacheco, Owner and Partner of Jose’s Bar & Grill in Leamington claimed the “Positive Professionals” Award. He is shown with Award Sponsor David Schuld, Account Manager at RBC Royal Bank, Leamington.

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3 4. The “Excellence in Food Services” Award was presented to Kevin and Carmen Dick, Owners of Carmen’s Catering.

Representing their Award Sponsor from TD Canada Trust were Bernadette Sleiman, Account Manager Small Business/Small Business Banking and Mark Bomben, Manager Cash Management.

5. The “Customer First” Award went to Wharram’s Jewellery represented by Evelin, Jessica and Wayne Wharram pictured with Award Sponsor Joe Oswald, General Manager of Leamington’s CIBC. 6. The “Small Business Excellence” (with

10 to 50 employees) recipient was Parker DKI with Dylan Parker, General Manager accepting the honour from Award Sponsor John Berg, Senior Financial Advisor at Scotiabank in Amherstburg.

which was accepted by Tyler Blatz, Alice Nohra and John Woelk. Representing their Award Sponsor was Andrew Laforet, Interpretation Coordinator with Point Pelee National Park, Parks Canada.

7. Century 21 Erie Shores Realty, Inc. earned the “Warm Welcome” Award,

Here’s wishing all of the winners many more years of success.

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Bringing you all the action in the region since 1998.

To view more events visit: BizXmagazine.com

was there!

Shannon Hazel, a Sales Representative with Buckingham Realty (Windsor) Ltd., believes that strong communities are built around strong schools. So, at the start of this current school year, she launched a “Giving Back” campaign where one school/classroom receives a $500 donation. Out of the 25 schools nominated through social media, the first recipient, Begley Public School was selected to receive $500 for its library. Hazel is shown with students during a special assembly for the cheque presentation at the school, in late September.

The “Giving Back” campaign is ongoing so look for future calls for nominations on: MyRealEstateBlog.org.

Photo courtesy of Principal Angela Miloyevich.

W.E. Care for Kids (WEcareforkids.org) presented the “Catwalk 4 Kids” fashion show in late September at the Caboto Club. With an eye for fashion, the Biz X photographer searched high and low to bring you these shots! Moments before hitting the runway young models from left: Ava Cope, Cristian Pizzuti, Olivia Cope, Elaina Pizzuti and Bella Cope had a little coaching from their moms, Nicole Cope and Toula Pizzuti.

Bruce Fortier, son of an owner of Monty Formal Wear (“Trend Setter” event sponsor) strikes a pose with Josie Carbo (second from left) and her daughter Hannah (family of another owner of the business) and Manager Kristen Soulliere (right) at the “Catwalk 4 Kids”.

“Catwalk 4 Kids” photos

by Rod Denis.

LaSalle’s Caché Boutique Owner Christine Romualdi (left) always makes a fashion statement wherever she goes!

As one of this “Haute Couture” event sponsors she is pictured enjoying the evening with her friends (from left) Melissa Maddox, Michelle Saccucci and Sara DiMaio.

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Well known in the real estate industry, we found “Style Icon” event sponsor, Ida Sproule of Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited, Brokerage (seated in middle) entertaining the guests at her table. (Standing) from left: Heather Solcz; Rachel Lefaive, Katherine Morrison and Blair Davey. (Seated): Brenda Hawtin, REALTOR Ida Sproule, Valente Realty, and Marsha Quinn. All funds raised from the “Catwalk 4 Kids” go directly to support local paediatric healthcare in Windsor and Essex County.

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After 12 years serving the LaSalle community at its first location, a grand opening for the Montessori Early Years (MEY) brand new facility at 1550 Front Road was held on September 29, 2019. Participating in the traditional ribbon cutting were Town of LaSalle Mayor Marc Bondy; Owner/Operator Maria Monaco-Flay; MEY staff members and LaSalle Councillor€Sue Desjarlais (third from the left).

The former L.C.B.O. building has been transformed into a stateof-the-art school and day care for children aged 16 months to six years. Staff of Montessori Early Years, Inc., photographed during the grand opening, from left were: Alice Murebwayire, Jenna Conciatori, Theresa Hoang, Maria Monaco Flay (Owner, Operator and Principal), Tammy Wilson, Karina Nader (Vice Principal) and Amanda Parker.

Montessori Early Years photos by Rod Denis.

Whereas Phase 1 of the new MEY opened its doors in July of 2019, given the growth of the LaSalle and Windsor Essex community, there are plans to expand to Phase 2 in the near future. Checking out the new toddler classroom,€from left were: LaSalle Councillor Anita Riccio-Spagnuolo; Owner/Operator Maria Monaco Flay; Lawyer Elizabeth Papp and Mayor of LaSalle Marc Bondy.

The grand opening was more than just another school opening for its owner as it was a family celebration too. Family members present to share in the big day, starting at the left were: Michael Flay, Salvo Monaco, John Monaco, Maria Monaco-Flay (MEY Owner and Operator), Luca Monaco, Diane Monaco, Katelin Flay and David Flay.

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

Honey-Bee Ham Co., Windsor, ON

FOR THOUGHT C

ontinuing with tradition, since 1983, the legendary Honey-Bee Ham Co. is still providing their savoury ham to happy customers in Windsor and beyond.

The unmistakable gourmet taste of the ham is still here today, with product quality not available at any other store. Honey-Bee Ham Co. is clearly the industry leader.

According to the new Windsor Owner, Jeff Rusnak, “The signature glaze sets us apart. It’s truly one of a kind!”

The previous owner and founder of Honey-Bee Ham Co., Kevin Brode retired in October of 2018 with Rusnak then taking over the reins.

An employee for almost 30 years, Rusnak is now the sole Owner/Operator of the two HoneyBee Ham Co. locations at Lauzon Parkway and Dougall Avenue in Windsor.

Now, one year later, Rusnak has implemented several changes to the business while keeping the prize-winning ham and menu intact.

A revised website (HoneyBeeHamCo.com) with learning videos is just one of the most recent changes. A new company logo has also been revealed. However, the greatest refresh included a renovation of the Lauzon store that now features a friendly, rustic appearance with seating for 20.

Another new store/restaurant is scheduled for LaSalle in the new year as well.

Regarding the ham, Rusnak points out, “The spiral-sliced, honey-glazed, dry-cured ham makes meal preparation and serving an absolute delight for you at home with the help of the instructional video. Before you get it, the final touch and part of our signature trademark is our own honey glaze, once again, we only use the finest pure ingredients and pure honey on those huge 16 lb. glazed hams, all the way down the line.”

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2885 Lauzon Parkway, 2407 Dougall Avenue (Dorwin Plaza)

By David Clark The two locations in Windsor also function as delis with a lunch menu offered. Sandwiches are at the top of the list with the classic Ham Sandwich, Turkey, Roast Beef, Egg Salad and more. You can choose the zesty Cheddar, Swiss or Edam cheeses to accompany your meat sandwiches.

It’s always service with a smile at Honey-Bee Ham Co. when Owner/Operator Jeff Rusnak and Manager Joanne Korona present a full sized ham to a customer.

The two are photographed at the recently renovated Lauzon Parkway location, which now features an inviting, refreshed and rustic appearance with seating for 20. It’s the ideal spot for a delicious lunch time meal!

The perfect suggestion is the Ham and Swiss on a Kaiser Roll with the Yellow Split Pea Soup displayed . . . and don’t forget the pickle! Photo by Rod Denis.

“To warm you a little, let us introduce you to the famous Yellow Split Pea Soup,” Rusnak suggests.

Also, a great companion for the Ham Sandwich would be the classic Navy Bean Soup.”

Your healthy choices include the large Julienne Salad, the Cold Plate Salad and the Homemade Glazed Ham and Macaroni Salad.

To get you in the front door, the Honey-Bee Ham Co. specials include a piled high sandwich, soup and a pop, for a reasonable $10. Also, the Ham Sandwich special comes with your choice

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of three sides including either, veggie sticks and dip, pepperoni, chips, pop, a jumbo dill pickle or a small Mac Salad for $12.

All food products at Honey-Bee Ham Co. are locally sourced.

As of June 2019, Honey-Bee Ham Co. introduced catering for special events or even for those looking to “ham it up” in the work day!

Large lunch orders are already being sent to clients at plants like Chrysler. The word is out!

As for delivery, “We have arrangements with Skip the Dishes and Door Dash,” explains Rusnak. “We are seeing a significant amount of traffic coming from that.”

The proud new owner attributes his key to success to his dedicated team of employees.

“My manager and long time employee Joanne Korona has been a life line to me while I learn all there is to know about owning and running Honey-Bee,” says Rusnak. “Along with Joanne, I am grateful for all my staff who dedicate many long hours throughout every holiday, working hard to give customers the best product available for special occasions or dinners.”

Concerning franchising, Rusnak has a three to five year plan to start to franchise the business.

“With over 36 years in business, a proven business model and the best hams around, we feel this would be great for others to enjoy,” believes Rusnak.

With the holidays around the corner, Rusnak recommends ordering your ham early for your private party or corporate gift/event. In addition, gift certificates are presently available at either store.

For more information about Honey-Bee Ham Co. including the latest happenings at both stores, check: Facebook.com/HoneyBeeHamCo.

LIFESTYLE MATTERS

Join MADD Canada’s “Project Red Ribbon” Campaign BROUGHT TO YOU BY And Commit To Sober Driving

By Chaouki Hamka, Community Leader MADD Windsor & Essex County

The holidays are fast approaching. It’s a time marked by bright lights, festive gifts and social calendars filled with parties. Tragically, it can also be a time of sadness and grief for far too many Canadians — those who have lost loved ones in alcohol and drug-related auto crashes.

Every year, hundreds of people are killed and tens of thousands are injured in alcohol and drug-related crashes. These crashes, deaths and injuries are entirely, 100%, preventable, and continued awareness efforts are crucial.

MADD Canada and MADD Windsor & Essex County are striving to prevent impaired driving this holiday season through the “Project Red Ribbon” awareness campaign.

From November 1, 2019 until January 6, 2020 MADD Canada Chapters and Community Leaders around the country are out in force, handing out red ribbons and car decals, encouraging Canadians to plan ahead for a safe and sober ride home.

If you’re making rounds to holiday parties

and are planning on drinking alcohol or consuming cannabis, eliminate the risk to get behind the wheel altogether and plan a sober transportation option such as: take a cab; arrange a designated driver or plan to spend the night.

If you are hosting a party, follow these simple precautions to make sure you guests don’t drive under the influence of alcohol and/or cannabis: have lots of food and nonalcohol/low alcohol beverages available; serve drinks yourself so you can monitor how much your guests are consuming; don’t serve alcohol to guests who are already intoxicated; if guests are consuming cannabis, try to be aware of their consumption/impairment levels; know how your guests are getting home and who is driving and have taxi numbers available. Always be prepared to have intoxicated guests spend the night at your house!

As always, if you see a driver you think is impaired, pull over safely, call 911 and alert the police.

Show your commitment to safe and

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519-256-2621 www.vetscab.com

sober driving! Get your red ribbon today by contacting MADD Windsor & Essex County by emailing: maddwin@yahoo.ca or visit the MADD Canada website: MADD.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words . . .

So Make Your Holiday Family Photos Spectacular!

Story And Photos (unless marked)

By Dave Hall

I

f you’re looking to make those holiday photos special with lasting memories for family and friends, it’s time to call in the professionals rather than just snapping random shots with your own camera or phone.

Why leave these treasured memories to chance when you can book time with a professional photographer, find that special outfit and get your hair and makeup professionally styled so that the photos on your custom Christmas cards or on the wall of your home are perfect?

With Halloween now just a memory, Christmas is just around the corner and bookings at area photography companies are filling up fast for those families wishing to send out custom cards to friends and family across the country.

While most photographers shy away from outdoor settings this time of year due to weather uncertainties, if mother nature cooperates, there are still opportunities for families to have photos taken at festive outdoor events.

Say cheese! Cara and Pat Dupuis pose for their Christmas family photos in Clarissa Marie Photography’s studio with children Lilly, 11, and Noah, 2. Photo courtesy of Clarissa Marie Photography.

The City of Windsor’s “Bright Lights Festival,” which features thousands of lights, refreshments and entertainment, takes place in Jackson Park from December 6 to January 7.

“It’s one of the most popular photo destinations we have,” says Jan Wilson, Executive Director of Recreation and Culture for the city. “We have four tunnels of lights, which are very popular, and there are large decorations that people can step into and those work very well in photographs.”

This year’s event will also include an expanded lineup of food vendors, local artisans and opportunities for charitable organizations to collect donations of canned goods and clothing.

“The word is getting out and we are seeing interest from out of town visitors as well,” adds Wilson. “We have new light displays this year and the plan is to add something every year.”

Out in the county, the popular “River

“Outstanding New Business of 2019”

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Lights Winter Festival” runs November 16, 2019 to January 6, 2020 in Kings Navy Yard Park and Toddy Jones Park in Amherstburg (learn more on page 17 of this issue).

“It’s become a family tradition in Amherstburg,” says Anne Rota, Manager of Culture and Recreation for the town. “It’s a family gathering spot and a perfect place for family photos. We have a lot of new colourful displays this year, which should make it even more fun and exciting for the entire holiday season.”

The Town of Kingsville also holds a light display in Lakeside Park. The “Fantasy of Lights Festival” is something the whole family can do together from November 16, 2019 to January 8, 2020.€ The Friends of Willistead and the City of Windsor will also be opening the doors for tours of Willistead Manor in Walkerville on selected dates throughout December.

Of course, you can also take your own shots at the events described, but

THE PARENTING BIZ professionals should be called upon to make sure those special photo occasions go off without a hitch.

And to help organize those appointments, Biz X magazine has put together a little primer on how to take the stress out of planning the holiday photo shoot.

Tricks Of The Photo Trade

The focus for any family wishing to have a holiday photo taken is to relax and be as stress-free as possible.

“It’s all about having family come together and letting the photographer take care of the details,” says Photographer Clarissa Mitchell of Clarissa Marie Photography (ClarissaMariePhotography.com). “It can be a stressful time of the year but try to have some fun with it and don’t worry about how the kids are acting.”

She adds, “All photographers have a bag of tricks to get kids to pay attention to what’s going on. Trust me, they will be fine.”

Mitchell likes to play with the children to help them relax and sing children’s songs until they’re all laughing.

“The shoot takes about 20 to 30 minutes and I have two set-ups so we move quickly from one to the next before the kids have a chance to become bored or restless,” she explains.

Mitchell finds that interior studio shots work best for most families because weather is never a factor and families are able to schedule the shoot with the certainty that it will take place.

“When people are trying to decide what to wear for their shoot, I always recommend they wear something that blends in with their home décor if they plan on hanging the photo on a wall in their home,” she advises.

“If they have muted colours at home, then bright yellows and reds in the photo may not work as well as neutral colours.”

For photographer Tracey Ellen Lesperance of Tracey Ellen Photography, the key for parents is to relax − and their children will follow their lead.

‘Twas the night before Christmas. . . the children (Nora and Oliver Bezaire) were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums dance in their heads! Photo courtesy of Melissa Apthorp Photography.

“It’s an excitable time of the year with Halloween just past and Christmas around the corner, so I just ask parents to put their faith in me and everything will work out just fine,” she states. “We’re only doing one or maybe two set-ups, so families can be in and out in 20 minutes so the children don’t really have time to get impatient.”

Lesperance indicates her studio is child-friendly so even if kids run around for the first few minutes, there’s not much trouble they can get into!

“I also suggest that parents dress their children in matching outfits and highlight those outfits with accessories such as bows or ties in bright festive colours,” she says.

Lesperance also focuses on indoor shoots because weather is never a factor and there’s no stress involved when families know the session can take place without any worries about rescheduling.

For those indoor sessions, Lesperance focuses on woodsy settings and also poses

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children on beds as if they are waiting for Santa to arrive.

She points out, “We use a lot of green and red traditional Christmas colours.”

Lesperance adds that she’s able to find a great many of her props at hobby and craft stores.

She also shops online where she taps into companies specializing in providing props for photographers.

“There’s a lot to choose from and it’s a matter of using your imagination and working with families to create the look they want,” she expresses.

For more information, refer to her website: TraceyEllen.com.

Melissa Apthorp of Melissa Apthorp Photography says Christmas is her busiest and most enjoyable time of the year.

“I love Christmas myself, so it’s fun to see families enjoying themselves during my photo shoots,” says Apthorp. “This is right up my alley and I love it.”

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THE PARENTING BIZ She also believes the secret to a successful family photo session is to get everyone to relax and be themselves.

“I get loud and silly myself and that seems to help with the kids,” explains Apthorp, laughing. “If they’re babies, I get down on the floor with them and if they are older, I find other ways to interact.”

Apthorp uses props such as a backdrop, which looks like a bed and she also brings out milk and cookies to help families get in the mood for their Christmas photos.

“This year, I’m encouraging families to wear matching pajamas for their shoots and that seems to be going over well,” she says.

“I’m also getting a lot of repeat clients, so we already have a rapport, which makes the entire experience go so much smoother for everyone.”

“The key is to just have fun with it,” she adds.

More information about Melissa Apthorp Photography can be found on Facebook.

Dress For Success

Iman Youssef, who owns three Amour Boutique locations across Windsor and LaSalle, suggests wearing something sparkly and shimmering to pair with burgundy, red, silver and other holiday-themed colours when dressing for a holiday photo shoot.

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Iman Youssef, Owner of three Amour Boutique stores across the Windsor area, holds up an outfit just waiting to be paired with a selection of accessories in preparation for holiday photo shoots.

“I think people should dress up for the season and wear something festive that they probably wouldn’t otherwise wear,” says Youssef whose store at 5841 Malden Road features women’s wear and accessories.

“Wearing something with sequins would

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also work very well with holiday colours.”

She emphasizes, “The whole idea is to make it special and get into the holiday spirit.”

Youssef’s other boutiques, which feature fragrances and accessories, are located at

THE PARENTING BIZ 1555 Talbot Road in Windsor Crossing Premium Outlets and at 7654 Tecumseh Road East inside Tecumseh Mall.

Clothing choices for the younger set can be expensive, especially if they are only going to be worn once over the holidays, so buying from Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop at 818 Ottawa Street in Windsor makes a great deal of sense.

“Over the past couple of years, I’ve found that parents like to dress their children in similar colours,” says Owner Jessica Ryan.

“Red and black plaids can be effective and you can find something for every age of child including sleepers, casual shirts, dress shirts and even a smart pair of jeans.”

Ryan adds that depending upon the child and how many children there are in the family, these outfits can be accessorized with bows, belts and earrings.

“I often find that the younger children follow what their older siblings are doing and that’s when you find the most accessories being worn,” she mentions. “Shoes can be an expensive item as well, so it’s often a good idea to take a look at a consignment shop such as ours to find what the kids want to wear.”

More information on Siblings can be found on Facebook.

For men, the choices are somewhat more

A collection of outfits and accessories await the discerning shopper at The Shoe Box at 1614 Lesperance Road. All the store’s collection can be mixed and matched for the perfect holiday ensemble.

limited, according to Nat Milana, Owner of Milana’s Menswear at 46 Erie Street South in Leamington (find them on Facebook too).

However, men can still add some festive colours to their suit or blazer with ties or bowties for an added pop of colour.

“Black is still the number one suit colour,” Milana notes. “But, we’re seeing

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a lot of burgundy blazers being bought this year along with charcoal and grey suits.”

He adds, “Whether or not a man wears a tie or simply an open collar depends upon the style of the photos they want to have taken. An open collar would lend itself better to casual family photos compared to a more formal suit.”

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THE PARENTING BIZ Milana says it’s often easier for a woman to accessorize and create a holiday theme with her clothing, but a man with some imagination can achieve the same result.

As far as footwear is concerned Claudine Thibodeau, Owner of The Shoe Box at 1640 Lesperance Road in Tecumseh, is firmly convinced that the right shoes can make all the difference in accessorizing any outfit.

“We work with our clients and customers to find out what type of event they are attending or what type of family photos they are taking,” explains Thibodeau. “If it’s a formal event or photo, then there’s nothing wrong with heels for a woman or a smart black shoe for a man.”

She adds, “But, if it’s a casual event or photo, then flats or boots might be the best choice. We’re getting busy already because people are thinking ahead to their holiday events and planning accordingly.”

More information on The Shoe Box can be found on Facebook.

Anne Waters, Owner of Anne’s on the Avenue at 1695 Manning Road in Tecumseh, says business is picking up as the holidays get closer with some families choosing matching outfits for their children.

“You are never really sure why people are buying certain items, but certainly at

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this time of the year, you’re beginning to see themes develop,” adds Waters. “They might want all cream or all off-white or all red — it all depends on what they are trying to portray in the photos.”

For more information, visit the website: AnnesOnTheAvenue.com.

Look Your Best

It’s time to start making appointments for those all-important hair and makeup transformations, in time for the holiday season, to make sure everyone looks like a million bucks in all photos.

“Now that more people are arranging for those legacy photos rather than just taking snapshots, they want everything and everyone to look as perfect as possible,” says Karen Demarce, Co-owner of Sage Salon + Spa with husband Leo Demarce. “Our clients want to make those photos look as amazing as possible, since they will be shared with family and friends for many years.”

Demarce, whose salon is located at 1100 Lesperance Road in Tecumseh, adds that the salon offers hair styling for men and boys as well and starting in October, appointments are already being booked.

“Everyone’s time fills up at this time of the year and it’s often hard to squeeze appointments in if you wait too long,”

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she indicates. “A lot of our clients try to coordinate those photo appointments with company Christmas parties and corporate events and those start happening in midNovember if not earlier.”

Check out Sage Salon + spa on their website: SageSalon.ca.

Samantha George, who owns Hair and Makeup by Samantha G at 16 Division Road in Kingsville, says that business was getting busier for year-round festivities in late October as people prepare for the holidays.

“There’s been a bit of a lull through October, but it’s starting to get busier because sometimes appointments are hard to get if you wait until the last minute,” she also points out.

George, who won the Biz X Award for “The Makeup Artist Who Puts Your Best Face Forward” award in 2016, adds that her customers don’t always talk about what event they’re going to be attending or why they want their makeup to look a certain way, but it’s clear they are doing something special for the holidays.

More information on George’s services can be found on Facebook.

Michelle Paterson Maisonville, who owns the Best Lil’ Hair House in Windsor at 1557 University Avenue West, says

THE PARENTING BIZ “business used to be crazy with people seeking special cuts and ‘up-dos,’ but that doesn’t happen as often anymore.”

However, she reports that “Some clients still get that special colour just before the holidays and that’s beginning to pick up as it gets closer, but people generally seem to be cutting back.”

To learn more about her salon, visit her page on Facebook.

Jennifer Hofford, who owns Permanent Makeup and Skin Care at 5920 Sovereign Drive in LaSalle, says the growth of social media has fuelled an increase in photo shoots because people want to post their photos on Facebook and Instagram, for instance, in addition to Christmas cards and gifts.

“Everybody wants a great photo and there are a number of tips for looking your best in these shots,” says Hofford.

“If people are applying their makeup themselves, I always tell them to do their eyes first and then move on to the foundation and the rest of the makeup,” she explains.

“Always use a lot of powder so you can create a matte finish because photographers do not like shiny faces. Gloss on the lips is great, but you want a flat finish on the face and neck.”

Hofford also suggests adding more powder every 15 minutes to keep the matte

Esthetician Laura Casagrande of Sage Salon + Spa stands next to a collection of nail polishes, all designed to complement holiday outfits for the perfect family photo shoot for Christmas cards and family gifts.

finish in place and to make sure you stay true to your own natural skin tones.

“You don’t want a contrast between your natural skin tones and makeup,” she notes.

More information about Hofford’s services can be found on Facebook.

Get The Light Right

So, the family Christmas photos have

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been taken by the experts, but there are still plenty of chances to take your own shots throughout the holidays.

The biggest mistake amateur photographers make when taking photos of any kind is not getting the lighting right, according to Adrian Harte, Owner of Photo Outfitters at 3331 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor (PhotoOutfitters.ca).

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THE PARENTING BIZ than they do about proper lighting.”

Focus on the lighting and your family photos will turn out just fine, adds Harte.

Harte declined to make recommendations about the kind of camera people should buy, saying there are too many variables.

“It all depends on a number of factors such as what kind of photos they want to take, how much they want to spend and how often they’ll use the camera,” states Harte.

“If you’re expecting to take professionallooking photos you’ll probably want a different camera than if you’re just taking vacation or family snapshots.”

At Photo Outfitters you can find new and used cameras, accessories, bags, tripods, film and cleaning kits while at the same time offering repair and consignment services.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas Holiday Photo

The tables are turned as the Biz X photographer snaps a shot of Adrian Harte, Owner of Photo Outfitters, inside the Tecumseh Road East store! Harte says poor lighting is the biggest mistake amateur photographers make when taking photos.

“Too many people take photos with a window behind their subject and they’re disappointed when all they see are shadows,” says Harte. “Most of the time, they want to buy a better camera, but

it’s about the lighting and not the camera.”

He explains that, “Lighting is the biggest differentiator between a successful photo and something you’re disappointed in.

People worry more about their equipment

For many, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. So enjoy the holidays and spend your time away from work with those you love.

Be sure to capture all the great memories too. With all our tips from local businesses covering your family from head to toe, we know your family photos will now be picture perfect! Happy holidays everyone!

Happy Holidays From All of Us At Wee Watch!

Individuality.

That’s What Sets Us Apart.

Play. Discover. Social Interaction. Growth.

Flexible worry-free arrangements that fit your daily work schedule. Age appropriate play-based learning programs designed to stimulate curiosity and build confidence.

Discover Wee Watch for your child - A home away from home Call us, let’s talk: 519-776-9797 or visit: weewatch.com

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Quality Licensed Home Child Care

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN

By Julianna Bonnett

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Sarah Dorakofski & Jenne DeLuca Put Their Best Foot Forward Together A

t Solely Foot Care Inc., two local nurses are making it their mission to help the community keep up with foot care in a mobile way. From foot assessment, diabetic foot care and clipping/filing, to fungal nail debridement, thick nail reduction, corn/callus management and more, their company is committed to educating their clients on the importance of good foot health, infection control and best practices.

Advance Foot Care nurses, Sarah Dorakofski and Jenne DeLuca, have worked as local nurses in the Windsor health care field for about five years. After working in community clinics, long term care facilities and hospitals, the pair decided it was best they open a business that would not only benefit each other, but also the residents in their community.

After brainstorming ideas for their business since December 2018, it only took these nurses a few months to get going on the right foot!

In August 2019, Solely Foot Care had a soft opening and has been adding to its customer base ever since.

“We just kind of looked at each other and decided a business was something we should start,” recalls Dorakofski. “Before our business, we both were nurses and working 12 hour days was hard enough.”

Offering home care facilities and collaborations with doctors and medical facilities in Windsor, Solely Foot Care is a completely mobile business visiting numerous locations including residences, retirement homes and long term care facilities.

“We run mobile clinics each week, whether that means us going to the location of the client or going to whatever location is best and

The Owners of Solely Foot Care, Sarah Dorakofski (left) and Jen Deluca, display the necessary equipment for their foot care services such as: German stainless steel clippers, callus softeners, a podiatry drill, sterile instruments packaged (in the blue pack) and more.

Photo by Rod Denis.

most accessible for them,” DeLuca explains.

“The idea of being mobile was so we could help out as many people as possible in our community without the hassle of them having to come to us.”

After learning nine clinics in the Windsor Essex community have closed down in the last four months due to sterilization issues, the two nurses want to ensure everyone that they sterilize their equipment properly.

Dorakofski stresses they have gold standards for sterilization and start by using a cleaning solution to clean away any visible debris. Then they package all their instruments in sterile pouches that contain a chemical indicator.

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“We place the packaged instruments into a steam autoclave,” she says. “The indicators found on the pouches, the chemical indicators found inside the package, as well as a print out from the autoclave itself, tell us that the internal temperature of the autoclave has reached the proper temperature to kill any and all bacteria.”

On the personal side, the busy pair is kept on their toes since they are both mothers to toddlers.

According to Dorakofski, being a mom and running your own business is never easy, but thankfully, since she partners with her close friend, it makes things a lot more manageable.

Dorakofski and DeLuca studied nursing at St. Clair College and within a few years of working in the field they soon realized there is not much freedom for family or personal time when you’re a nurse.

“I feel like, as nurses, we’re pulled in so many directions that we’re unable to give back to the community as a whole,” says Dorakofski.

“Now, with Solely Foot Care I feel like we’re able to do more for so many people in need of clean and sterilized foot care.”

And these are two women who are as good as their word about giving back. Within just a few months of the creation of Solely Foot Care they also started the “Warm Our Soles Project”.

Donations of gently used shoes, boots and brand new socks for care packages were collected from mid-September to early October, and were donated to a local business who directly helps people in need.

For more information on Solely Foot Care and their upcoming mobile clinics, check out their social media page at: Facebook.com/solelyfootcare.

XX FILES

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from the bookshelf

A Paranormal Thriller . . .

And Our Youngest Author Ever

By Marlene Markham-Gay

M

ake a special someone on your Christmas list smile this holiday season with one of these novels under the tree!

Local author Edmond Gagnon is a retired Windsor Police detective who worked the streets for over 31 years. He has travelled the world and written about his adventures in his book “A Casual Traveler.” He has also written several other books entitled “Bloody Friday”; “Rat: A Cop’s Secret Weapon”; “Finding Hope”; “Torch: Fire For Hire” and “Border City Chronicles.”

Travelling and murder mysteries are his forte, but this time Gagnon has surprised us by exploring the paranormal in his new book, “Four, A Paranormal Thriller.”

This is a novel that will have you questioning your own beliefs!

A young man named Timothy is with his father, Kevin Jordan at their cottage in Northern Michigan.

One evening, while enjoying a campfire, Timothy notices strange things happening in the starry sky. Jordan introduces three men, each from a different part of the world to his son. Before the night turns into dawn Timothy learns how unexplained events have brought them all together. Extraordinary things begin to happen on his own shoreline. He is no longer a skeptic and realizes that he must reconsider his thinking.

Timothy says “I kicked off my shoes, tore off my shirt, and charged toward the beach.

It was hard to describe, but I felt I was on a mission to discover my own destiny.

Everything I heard that night prepared me for what was out there in the lake. My stomach did back flips. I had goose bumps and tingled all over.”

Suspenseful and thought provoking, this is a story you will want to read again after the final chapter has ended and you have closed the book.

“Four” is available in Windsor at Juniper Books, 1990 Ottawa Street and PB Books, 3947 Tecumseh Road East. It is also sold online at: Amazon.ca and Chapters.

Indigo.ca/en-ca and you can learn more about the author by visiting: EdmondGagnon.com/books.

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Next up for the pre-teen on your list, we have a book by a local author from Essex, Paightyn Armstrong, who started writing a short story for a writing contest when she was in the fourth grade. It was never submitted because it wasn’t finished on time.

Writing continued over the years and when she was 12 years old, she handed her mother a 54-page manuscript of the story.

Her mother was surprised as she knew her daughter had been writing short stories and had kept a journal, but she did not realize she had written a whole book! Paightyn is now in grade eight and is the youngest author to be featured in “From the Bookshelf.”

The book appeals to nine to 12 year olds and is titled “The Magic Within.” Armstrong is hoping young readers will not only enjoy her book, but will find their magic within.

“Anyone can do anything if they believe in themselves. That is the magic!” she writes.

The main character in “The Magic Within” story is named Anna Wick.

She’s not your average 12-year-old girl as she has capabilities that seem almost magical, or maybe it was the life changing accidental fire that gave her strength and left her orphaned. She has a very big heart and a secret about her origin comes to be revealed.

Anna is whisked away to a fantastical, hidden island far away. After performing difficult tasks, broken hearted Anna faces many hardships, and learns unforgettable secrets. She faces things she never thought possible and becomes a role model.

This book is an amazing heart-warming story which will win you over with its tale of a young determined girl. “The Magic Within” is available at The Essex Railway Station, 87 Railway Street and online at: Books.FriesenPress.com/store; Amazon.ca and Indigo/chapters.ca. It is available in hard copy, soft copy and e-format.

Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at The Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books. She has encouraged all eight of her grandchildren to read.

THE WAY IT WAS

Reflections Of Christmas Treasures

By Andrea Grimes “From little towns in a far land we came, To save our honour and a world aflame.

By little towns in a far land we sleep; And trust those things we won to you to keep!” ~Rudyard Kipling, “Epitaphs of the War”

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wenty years after the Great War, nations knew that Hitler’s tyranny would bring the world to its knees.

For the first two years of WWII, most of our Canadian soldiers had seen little in the way of direct action however; the situation changed dramatically in late summer and autumn of 1944 when the Essex Scottish Regiment liberated many towns and villages in France, Belgium and the southern Netherlands. These liberations would see Canada emerge with a new-found respect on the world stage.

Looking back on Christmas 1944, many families throughout Windsor and Essex County had loved ones serving in our Canadian Armed Forces in places very few even heard about.

Many were determined to observe some of the simplicity and warmth of those endearing peacetime family traditions, even though it meant replacing grandma’s buttery shortbread cookies with rice pudding and there were fewer gifts in those stockings!

What was in those Christmas stockings — an orange, stripped ribbon candy, a hair barrette, and a bag of marbles; a wooden box of coloured pencils, a slinky, a sock puppet, Silly Putty or a harmonica?

There were conversations of this nature while buying stamps at the Sandwich Post Office, chatting over lunch at Lyttles Bakery or reading the December issue of Chatelaine magazine while waiting for a prescription to be filled at Lanspeary’s Drug Store.

Posing by a Biz X magazine sponsored kettle at Devonshire Mall in 2017, from left are: Major Paul Rideout, Executive Director, The Salvation Army Windsor Community Services Centre of Hope; WWII Royal Canadian Navy Veteran Dorothy Grondin “ringing the bells” and Gerry Pocock, PresidentElect of the Rotary Club of Windsor 1918 and Coordinator of their Salvation Army “Christmas Kettle Campaign”.

For the latest information on the 2019 “Christmas Kettle Campaign” view: Facebook.com/SalvationArmyWindsor.

Photo courtesy of Gordon Drake.

During WWII, Canadian women were recognized for the “front line” roles they played in filling the workforce void created when our lads signed up to do their bit for King and country.

Furthermore, as resourceful homemakers they made the best of rationing during the lean years. These abilities, commitments and contributions were praised as essential measures to winning the war at home — a triumph of ingenuity and perseverance!

Wars are fought twice — once in battle and once in memories. For many families in our local region, the most difficult part of a wartime Christmas would be spending the festive season apart from loved ones who were fighting “over there”, recovering from their battle wounds, were being held prisoner of war or were missing in action.

Gordon Faas, President of the Rotary Club of Windsor 1918 (refer to: Rotary1918.com)

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says, “Rotary has a 100 year history of helping vulnerable families in need throughout our community. Since 1984, the Club has supported The Salvation Army’s ‘Christmas Kettle Campaign’ where our members stand at their posts ringing the bells at Devonshire Mall each Saturday, during part of the months of November and December, collecting donations on behalf of the Salvation Army. This dedication reflects a Rotary tradition . . . Service Above Self. We have a friendly competition with our sister club, Windsor Roseland to see who can get the most volunteer hours. The winner gets the ‘Battered Bugle’ Award.”

The traditions that families throughout the city and county grew up with and the ones that we pass along to another generation come from great stories of the countless families that came before us.

Christmastime heralds a celebration of reunions, both real and imagined; of nostalgic and deeply personal stories; of greater camaraderie, a sense of belonging — shared universal feelings of community, fellowship, forgiveness and hope!

When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things, not the great occasions, give the greatest glow of happiness.

As long as we know in our hearts what Christmas ought to be — holding fast to those memories of the warmth of family and comforts of home — Christmas is.

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. Writing for Biz X magazine since 2012, Andrea has brought our community closer to recognizing our Veterans for their military service and the sacrifice made to preserve our Canadian values of democracy.

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An Important Port Of Call . . .

The Windsor Port Authority Story and Photo By Dave Hall

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eeping with the theme of the 2019 Biz X Awards edition, “H2O — When Your Ship Comes In,” we now dive into marine trade and commerce by wrapping up with a story on the third largest Canadian Great Lakes’ port in terms of shipments, the Port of Windsor.

The port is ideally placed to be at the centre of an internationally integrated transportation hub combining a rail crossing, two international bridges, a crossborder vehicle tunnel and an international airport, to deliver products and cargo across the globe.

“We have an incredible opportunity because of our location and it’s something we need to take advantage of in the near future,” says Steve Salmons, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor Port Authority (3190 Sandwich Street) which manages the Port of Windsor.

The Windsor Port Authority is a federal corporation under the Marine Act (1999) as one of just 18 national ports established to promote the growth, competitiveness and prosperity of Canada’s economy.

“Bringing all our transportation services together into a hub has been talked about for years, but has never been acted upon and now is the time,” Salmons comments.

He continues by stating, “We have a great opportunity right in front of us and if we approach it with the idea of finding a business solution, rather than a political solution, we can make it work. We have unanimity throughout the local transportation sector to make what we have here an economic lifeline, not an economic bypass.”

The port, meanwhile, is doing its part by approaching the end of another strong year

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with cargo tonnage flowing through the port expected to exceed 2018, which was the most successful in the past decade, according to Salmons.

Its economic impact is largely a wellkept secret, but Salmons points out the port is responsible for generating almost 2,300 direct and indirect jobs, $125 million in direct and indirect personal income, business revenues of over $200 million and purchasing power, locally, exceeding $40 million.

The port’s new motto — Prosperity Flows — makes a strong case for it being one of the most efficient and effective economic engines in the entire county. And it’s nothing new, says Salmons.

“Our Indigenous peoples settled here because they figured it out generations ago and it’s the oldest European settlement west of Montreal because they were not just looking for a place to live, they were looking for a place to prosper,” he explains.

Salmons adds that in addition to existing road, rail, air and water systems, the region will soon be connected to its largest trading partner by a 10-lane bridge leading to interstate and provincial highways, fanning out across the continent.

But, Salmons also believes the port is hiding in plain sight and many Windsorites aren’t aware of its international economic impact and that the port stretches from the far west side of Windsor to the city’s border with Tecumseh.

As part of his mandate after taking over from David Cree, his predecessor, Salmons is charged with raising the port’s profile, which has led to the development of a $375,000 outdoor marine museum, adjacent

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John Elliott (left), Executive Director of the Sandwich Teen Action Group and Steve Salmons, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor Port Authority, pose with an 8,000 pound anchor at the gateway to Prosperity Place in Sandwich Towne.

to the port’s offices at the intersection of Sandwich and Mill Streets in Sandwich Towne in an open space, in a park.

Prosperity Place is marked by an anchor from the James Norris, the first Great Lakes freighter built back in 1951 and the last one taken out of service and scrapped eight years ago.

Salmons says the freighter’s final trip began in Windsor with a load of salt and that “we like to feel the anchor has come home.”

When completed (estimated by Christmas), the museum will feature storyboards and murals outlining the history of the port and its many terminals, which ship products across the globe through the Great Lakes waterway system.

John Elliott, Executive Director of the Sandwich Teen Action Group, was able to leverage his organization’s non-profit status into a $100,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation grant, which covered a large portion of the museum’s cost.

“My thought was that this would be a perfect place for people in the Sandwich community to gather and learn more about their history and the history of the port itself,” says Elliott, a long time community activist and former City of Windsor Councillor. “There are a lot of good things happening in Sandwich right now and this is one of them.”

Learn more about the Windsor Port Authority on: PortWindsor.com.

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