Biz X magazine Nov Dec 2020 by Biz X magazine

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“We Are All Survivors” The 23rd Annual Biz X Awards Tribute November/December 2020

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It’s A Jungle Out There In The Wild, Only The Strong Survive. We Honour The 2020 Biz X Award Winners & Nominees Who Have What It Takes To Tackle All The Challenges The Business World Must Fight This Year! – Pg 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

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

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ANNUAL AWARDS EDITION

table of contents

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 volume 23 • issue 9

Year 23 Theme

"We Are All Survivors" WWW.BIZXMAGAZINE.COM 4° Funny Stuff 5° From The Publisher: Help Sparky With A Toy Donation 6° Editorial Viewpoint: COVID-19 Exposes Long-Term Care Neglect Henry Johnson (pictured), an 84 year old Windsorite, Secretary of the regional chapter of CARP, has emerged as a difference maker in a movement to radically reform the Long Term Care (LTC) system in Ontario. Johnson tells columnist Alan Halberstadt that warehousing our seniors in private LTC homes needs to end. 8° Front Lines 11° Heard On The Street 12° Hot Shots: “Easter Seals Ontario (Windsor-Essex) Telethon” Even a pandemic did not stop the Easter Seals from broadcasting their annual telethon to help children with physical disabilities! Many local companies, organizations and individuals donated to the cause, including Jeremy Renaud (in photo by Rod Denis). He personally donated $2,250 and is also the Development Officer for the local chapter. So how did Renaud and his team pull it off? Turn to our event photo page to get the details. 14°Newsflash 16° Food For Thought: The Best Pizzas All In One Club 54 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: John Fairley, An Essex County Champion YourTVWindsor is celebrating 20 seasons of “Face to Face” with TV host John Fairley (shown in photo at top right courtesy of YourTV). Since 2000 Fairley has conducted over 800 interviews and community conversations, which inform, enlighten and entertain. From business leaders and politicians to the movers and shakers of our region, he knows how to ask the tough questions we all want answered.

And now Biz X’s Joe McParland turns the tables on Fairley to ask about his most memorable TV moments and volunteer work he has done over the years. 56° XX Files: Linda Innes Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of Her Dougall Avenue Shop, Linda’s Fashions & Accessories 57° Portfolio Corner: Bye, Bye 2020 58° Ask The Experts: Make The Most Of Your Closet Space With California Closets Windsor 60° Tech Bytes: The “Digital Main Street” Program 62° ’Tis The Season: The TWEPI Holiday Gift Guide And Supporting Local 64° The Parenting Biz: Christmas Is Claus For A Family Celebration The holidays are usually a time to come together and celebrate, but what happens during a pandemic? It’s still the most wonderful time of the year, so why not try some new holiday traditions that put the focus on your immediate family? For example, our first tradition is purchasing an “Elf on the Shelf” whereas another is all about baking Christmas cookies together . . . and there are more ideas to read to keep the season festive! (Photo courtesy of The Lumistella Company). 70 From The Bookshelf: Jacquelin Ihuwan’s “When I Look In The Mirror” 71 Health Matters: “You Better Watch Out”, Flu Season Is Here 72° The Way It Was: Windsor Goodfellows & The Salvation Army 74° Biz Of The Month: Garlatti Landscape, LaSalle

ON THE COVER —“It’s A Jungle Out There “ — The 23rd Annual Biz X Awards — PAGE 18 206 nominees, 24 winners, the 23rd annual Awards Tribute and a battle to stay healthy against a world-wide pandemic — physically and economically. “We Are All Survivors” of 2020! On the TV show “Survivor” an “Immunity Idol” is awarded to the winning tribe after an “Immunity Challenge” has taken place. Locally, the “survival instinct” of our nominees kicked in to give them strength to compete for a Biz X Award (shown on the cover). But, who will be the “Sole Survivor” in each category, as decided by our Judging “Tribal Council”? COVER MODELS: Joe Paonessa is a Fire Prevention Officer for Windsor Fire & Rescue Services. He started competing in 2017, most recently in the “Toronto Pro Qualifier” on November 21, 2020. He is the owner of JPFitness online coaching, where clients looking for lifestyle improvements can receive online nutrition and exercise guidance. (Instagram.com/jpfitness19). Krystal Francoeur is a Support Worker at Community Living Essex County by day, bodybuilder by night. In 2014, Krystal decided to take control of her life and get active as a competitive bodybuilder. Her first competition was in 2015 and now, in 2020, she is preparing for a pro qualifier in hopes of obtaining her IFBB pro status. (Follow her journey on: Instagram.com/fit.chick.0_o) LOCATION: Our jungle environment, with leafy tropical plants, tiki torches and firewood was created by Diane Spencler, Owner of Designs by Diane and set up at her venue, 5885 Huron Church Line, LaSalle. (DesignsByDiane.org and WindsorMicroWeddings.com.) PHOTOGRAPHER: Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com)

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FUNNY STUFF! BROUGHT TO YOU BY

“Get Ready To Unleash The Holiday Cheer!”

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

Paris has been “good for goodness sake” since her last birthday.

WWW.BIZXMAGAZINE.COM “Striving to provide our readers with a quality magazine that contains accurate information about the businesses and people that shape our border cities; and that challenges us to appreciate, explore and contribute to our communities.” SINCE 1998, Biz X IS DELIVERED FREE OF CHARGE TO EVERY REGISTERED BUSINESS IN WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY (10,000) AS DETERMINED BY CANADA POST. (NUMBER 03524213)

AS WELL, 3,000 COPIES ARE USED FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS, CLIENTS, NEWSSTANDS AND DISPLAY RACKS IN WINDSOR ESSEX, CHATHAM, TILBURY & SARNIA. ADDITIONAL COPIES (3,000) OF CERTAIN ISSUES ARE DISTRIBUTED AT NO CHARGE TO 450 LOCATIONS IN METRO DETROIT & REGION OR DISTRIBUTED AT WINDSOR ESSEX TRADE SHOWS/EVENTS (NUMBER MAY INCREASE AT TIMES). FOR A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION ON OUR CIRCULATION VISIT: WWW.BIZXMAGAZINE.COM.

Floki is excited as “Santa Paws is comin’ to town”.

PRESIDENT

Deborah Jones VICE-PRESIDENT

Colin Jones

Don’t forget, Rocky . . . “He sees you when you’re drinking!”

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES

Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator Shelley Oswald, Account Executive BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Shop local supporter Odin is “making a list, he’s checking it twice.”

Jack Rosenberg

WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Lori Baldassi Julianna Bonnett Noah Campbell David Clark Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh Andrea Grimes Alan Halberstadt Dave Hall Dave Halliday Steven Mayo Joe McParland Jim Murphy Matthew St. Amand Rebecca Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodney L. Denis Photography Maria Belenkova-Buford Josie Elysia PRODUCTION DESIGN

Rae Marie

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from the publisher

Sparky Needs Your Toy Donations More Than Ever This Year By Deborah Jones This has been a challenging year for business owners, and of course in our personal lives too. Social distancing, mask wearing and sanitizer everywhere have become the norm. The holidays are going to be a different experience to say the least. Yet nothing stops Christmas from coming! That is why I want to highlight here a cause near and dear to my heart, Sparky’s Toy Drive. Each year when we release our awards tribute to the public, we also host an awards gala. Like many events in 2020, gathering restrictions mean we cannot celebrate how we normally would. Since 2010, Sparky’s Toy Drive has been our charity recipient with gala guests donating toys, gift cards and cash, in lieu of purchasing a ticket. We raise thousands of dollars in cash and toys through the support of those in

attendance and also businesses providing items for our raffles. “The Biz X Awards Gala has been a long time supporter of Sparky’s Toy Drive,” says Sean Costello, Sparky’s Toy Drive Coordinator, which is sponsored by the Windsor Professional Firefighters’ Benefit Fund. “It is one of our largest and favourite fundraisers of the year. It is community gatherings like this that will be sorely missed by Sparky’s Toy Drive in our efforts to give back to those in need this holiday season!” ° Sparky’s Toy Drive has been helping financially burdened families for over 40°years and is made up entirely of volunteers. Last year alone they helped°approximately 1,200°families and 3,000 children (ages one to 13) in Windsor Essex. “Due to COVID-19 issues this year we are facing some adversity, but realize that

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the need is°great°and we will persevere,” Costello stresses. “We know our fundraising efforts are going to take a major hit, but also we understand the Windsor Essex area is one of the most giving communities in the province.” Donations are accepted right up until December 23 with toys and gifts in the $25 range. Gifts for nine to 13 year olds are needed the most. If you are an individual, family, or business who is fortunate enough to be in a position to donate to the toy drive, we urge you to do so. There are toy drop off locations (visit their website for an updated list) at most Windsor Fire Halls, as well as at Canadian Tire and Toys “R” Us. Monetary donations are also accepted through: SparkysToyDriveWindsor.com. Let’s salvage what we can of 2020 by wrapping it up on a positive note with every child in our region having a special gift under the Christmas tree!

editorial viewpoint

Ontario’s Shame: Private Sector Long-Term Care By Alan Halberstadt *If you have a comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com

“Care Not Profits.” That is the slogan embraced by a coalition of passionate lobbyists calling for profound changes to Ontario’s Long-Term Care system in the wake of startling revelations of neglect this summer. As the headline above suggests, the protesters are calling for the end of privatization of Long-Term Care Homes in the province. Easier said than done. Private Long-Term Care has been entrenched as a staple in Ontario since Mike Harris was Premier (1995 to 2002). Dismantling the model would drive the province much deeper into crippling debt. I’m all for free enterprise, but not when it imperils the lives of our most vulnerable citizens. This is not an industry private corporations should control. Critics of the current government of Premier Doug Ford point to reports that 57 percent of Ontario Long-Term Care Homes are run by private operators, more than any other province. One of the prime advocates of the privatization campaign is CARP, formerly known as the Canadian Association for Retired Persons. A difference maker in this fight is 84 year old Henry Johnson, Secretary of CARP’s WindsorEssex Chapter 7 (Carp.ca/chapter/windsor-essex). He was Chief Organizer of a “CARP Advocacy Walk”, where walkers advocated for a voice for seniors in Long-Term Care, October 18 in Windsor. Windsor Essex emerged as a hot spot in the province-wide crisis exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. There are 19 Long-Term Care (LTC) Homes and 23 Retirement Homes in WindsorEssex. As of late October, since the start of the pandemic there have been 76 deaths due to COVID-19, in the region. Fifty-three of those resided in LTC Homes and Retirement Homes (according to the WindsorEssex County Health Unit). Prior to the awareness walk, Johnson, supported by CUPE, Unifor and Service Employee International (SEIU) unions, penned a letter to Premier Ford demanding “Care Not Profits.” The letter claims that amidst all the pain, suffering and COVID-19 deaths of seniors in Ontario, three of the largest companies in the sector paid out $58 million in dividends to shareholders. “The profit should be turned back to the LongTerm Care Homes for the welfare of residents,” Johnson told me in an interview.

CARP claims the money should have gone to care for vulnerable residents and hiring front line workers at a living wage. Profit facilities have 17% fewer staff than non-profit homes and are slower to upgrade air conditioning and other infectious disease control measures, CARP claims. It caught Premier Ford’s attention when his mother-in-law tested positive for COVID-19 in a Toronto LTC Home. He has appointed a commission, which is investigating the findings of the Canadian Armed Forces in September. The Forces visited seven LTC Homes in the province and found cockroaches, bug infestations, rotting food, soiled linens and other disturbing conditions. The Premier described the conditions as “horrendous, despicable and intolerable,” and promised to spare no expense to fix the crisis. The commission is due to table its final report by next April. It recently released an interim report that recommends four hours of direct care a day, per resident. The trouble with that is a shortage of 6,000 Personal Service Workers (PSWs) in the province. Burned out PSWs have been leaving the profession in droves. I interviewed Mike Cardinal, high profile owner of the independent west end Retirement Home, Cardinal Place (3140 Peter Street, Windsor and online at: CardinalPlace.ca), to get his take on the travesty. Retirement Homes are self-funded residences that provide rental accommodation with care and services for seniors who can live independently with minimal to moderate support. They receive no government funding. LTC Homes are for adults who need access to on-site 24-hour nursing care and frequent assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, eating and general hygiene. Cardinal says many homes have cut back on their cleaning, which exposes residents to life threatening Clostridium difficile infections. LTC Homes, according to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, receive $180.80 per day (base Level of Care) per qualified resident in subsidies from the government, and that money can be gobbled up by the profit takers. “The amount of fat at the top of some of those large corporations is just disgusting,” says Cardinal. He finds it “horrifying” that PSWs at some understaffed LTC Homes are allowed B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

Mike Cardinal and his mother Mary out for ice cream at Dairy Freez in North Ridge. Mary has lived in her son’s Retirement Home for five years, a sign that Cardinal Place is a quality home. Photo courtesy of Mike Cardinal.

only five or 10 minutes to wash, dress and feed dementia patients, in the morning. He uses the analogy of an assembly line with row upon row of four seniors in a room allowing COVID-19 to spread more easily. While he finds such practices deplorable, Cardinal does not agree that all privately-owned LTC Homes should be banned. “Why wipe out those companies that are doing a good job?” he asks. Inspectors can quickly unearth who the bad actor operators are by simply talking to PSWs who have moved from home to home. There are pitfalls, however. Johnson’s group has advocated for a national standard of care, an idea Prime Minister Justin Trudeau latched onto recently. Trudeau offered money, but the provinces, including Ontario, rejected the idea, saying setting health care standards is a provincial responsibility. Prior to the pandemic, the province scaled back on random inspections of LTC Homes, but the heat has been turned up on that issue, given what the military discovered. I say random, drop-in inspections are the way to go if resident care in LTC Homes is to be maintained at acceptable levels. Some unionized PSWs are not badly paid. I’m told that staff in certain Windsor LTC Homes receive $24 an hour, but Johnson says many of the part-time workers are single women with children and have left the industry because they can’t make a go of it. The Ford government, on October 1, started upping the pay of PSWs by $3 per hour, but so far that is a temporary measure to attract workers. Recently, adds Johnson, local operators won’t hire workers who also work for some other home. That too has driven caregivers from the profession. “Stop Warehousing Seniors,” was plastered all over CARP’s calling card, urging supporters to attend its October walk. The pamphlet calls for a new model of care for our precious seniors, a family-centred care, small home like environments, higher staff to resident ratios, fulltime, well-paid staff that are trained in empathy. “We treat our children very, very well,” concludes Johnson, a former teacher. “We need to bring our care of seniors up to the same standard.” Amen to that!

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FRONTLINES

BK Cornerstone Helps Make Dreams Come True With $350k Donation

On September 30, 2020 at the site of BK Cornerstone Design/Build Ltd., 13405 Desro Drive in Tecumseh, the $350,000 cheque was officially presented to the charity. In attendance from left were: MCCCU reps Becky Langlois, Manager, Marketing & Community Relations, Robert Griffith, Chief Executive Officer and Steve Schincariol, Vice President, Commercial Operations; from BK Cornerstone Gina Read and Chris MacLeod along with owners Susan, Ben and Brent Klundert; Anita Imperioli, Founder and Teresa Silvestri, Director, In Honour of the Ones We Love; and also from MCCCU: Sonia Lenhardt, Branch Manager, Don Fraser, Chair, Board of Directors and Shawn Knowles, Commercial Account Manager. Photo by Rod Denis.

Under the leadership of Ben and Brent Klundert, owners of BK Cornerstone Design/Build Ltd., their subcontractors and suppliers who donated time and products to “The Dream Project,” proceeds of the sale of the home dedicated to In Honour of the Ones We Love (In Honour) has resulted in a whopping $350,000 donation. “In Honour is blessed to have been chosen as the charity to receive this amazing donation,”°expresses founder Anita Imperioli. “In these very challenging times with COVID-19, we depend more than ever on donations from our sponsors, friends and family to continue our many programs.”

The amount was shared among HôtelDieu Grace Healthcare ($190,000), Community Support Centre of Essex County ($80,000) and In Honour. “With the overwhelming participation from many of our industry partners this dream could become a reality,” states Brent Klundert representing BK Cornerstone. “These funds, through the hard work and careful planning of In Honour will be used throughout our community to help mitigate the overwhelming rise of mental health issues. We hope that this donation will also raise awareness to the impact of mental illness in our area and help bring momentum

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to the battle against it. We personally would like to thank everyone that contributed to this wonderful project as we couldn’t have done it without you.” The Motor City Community Credit Union (MCCCU) was also one of the companies partnering with BK Cornerstone, and In Honour is their signature charity. For the past 23 years, In Honour has been raising funds and awareness for patients with cancer, as well as other life-threatening illnesses and disabilities, and supporting mental health and wellness efforts. Learn more about the charity on: InHonour.ca and about their donor at: BKcornerstone.com.

FRONTLINES Ottawa Street Welcomes A Small Hub Of Latin American Culture Café Amor & Art opened its doors on July 24, 2020 at 1557 Ottawa Street in Windsor. Café owners Amor Hernandez and Mauricio Ontaneda took the plunge to open the business during the pandemic. Amor is from Mexico, her husband Mauricio is from Ecuador. They came to Canada 18 years ago and settled in Toronto, then moved to Windsor three years ago. “Since I was a teenager, I wanted to open a coffee shop,” says Amor. “I kept this idea in my head for many years as I was working full time in the accounting field. I needed a change and it was time to move on.” Growing up in a small village in Mexico, Amor is deeply connected to her culture. “When I left my parents’ home, I was young,” she recalls. “The smell of coffee reminded me of home. My mom used to make coffee every day. I have vivid memories of waking up at five in the morning to the smell of coffee and the sound of pots. I missed it so much that I started thinking that it would be very nice to have a coffee shop where I can make coffee just like my mom’s.” The dream soon became reality as the couple began to look for the perfect location. “We really loved Ottawa Street,” she states. “We saw that it was an inclusive, diverse neighbourhood and we thought we would be a nice addition to the street.” But, coffee is not Amor’s only passion. She can’t imagine her café without music. “The music reminds me of my father and I have the best memories of my childhood

when I lived with my parents,” says Amor. “I remember how he’d listen to these songs; I know all the lyrics. They are nice and mellow, it’s Bolero music.” The walls of Café Amor & Art are filled with reproductions of famous Mexican artists, like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. There is also a special wall dedicated to the local artistic talent. The cultural experience would not be complete without Amor’s unique take on sandwiches.

“You can find how to make chicken tinga or adobo pork, but you wouldn’t be able to make it like I do,” teases Amor. From beautifully decorated cups and plates, to a framed old newspaper article gifted by a customer, every detail is carefully chosen. Amor’s eyes sparkle as she shares her message: “This café is my heart. It carries the essence of who I am, my family, my hometown, my culture. All of that is with me every day through the food, art, music and coffee. I want my customers to feel the way I feel when I am here, surrounded by everything I love. So, please, come visit us!” Learn more at: CafeAmor.ca.

Amor Hernandez, husband Mauricio Ontaneda (right) and their son Patrick Hernandez, welcome customers to their newly opened coffee shop, Café Amor & Art, 1557 Ottawa Street in Windsor. Photo by Maria Belenkova-Buford.

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CORPORATE PROFILE

A collaboration between four Ontario angel networks will create more funding opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking start-up investment or early-stage capitalization, according to Board Chairman Carmen Gicante of the Windsor Essex Capital Angel Network (WECAN Investors; weangelnetwork.com). The recently-announced initiative will see the Southwestern Ontario Angel Network, which includes WECAN and London, join funding forces with similar organizations in KitchenerWaterloo and Oakville-Burlington, bringing together angel investors with more resources and experience in helping entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality. Dubbed Equation Angels (equationangels.com), the partnership is expected to create more avenues for investment. “The current COVID-19 situation has created delays in business-case development,” explains Gicante. “Funding for new start-ups has essentially dried up and we are hopeful this new initiative will be of benefit to entrepreneurs seeking investment . . . With Equation Angels there are as many as 200 potential investors in the funding pipeline.” Loosening the purse strings Jim Marsh, Dean of the Zekelman School of Business and Information Technology at St. Clair College and a WECAN board member,

says that finding investors has been a challenge for many start-ups but the new initiative should help loosen the purse strings. “In addition to making more investment funding available, it will also help expose Windsor-area start-ups to a great range of investment opportunities across Southwestern Ontario,” he states. Marsh adds that often new companies are seeking additional funding to help them with marketing efforts, so they have a better chance of penetrating a very competitive marketplace. Mentorship, networking and advice are also a large part of the ecosystem, says Marsh. “It’s not just about providing the funding, it’s also about providing help as a sounding board,” he explains. “Game-changer” for local entrepreneurs Deborah Livneh, WECAN Interim Executive Director and Entrepreneur-in-Residence with WEtech Alliance, believes the new collaboration can be a game-changer for area entrepreneurs looking to kick-start their dreams. “It’s a very important piece of the entrepreneurial ecosystem,” she says. “It will provide local entrepreneurs exposure to investors across most of Ontario along with high-quality funding opportunities.” Livneh states it’s not unusual to have as many as 70 investors on a remote meeting call. “Our members are a diverse group of accredited

investors, who themselves have varied knowledge in a wide range of sectors,” says Livneh. “As successful business people, our angels bring smart money to the table, offer their expertise to portfolio companies, and share in the due diligence process.” “These are serious investors and it’s taken this process to a completely new level” According to Livneh, “It’s a competitive process and the ones we see are the best of the best. You only have a few minutes to make your pitch and then the investors take time to look at the deal in detail and do their due diligence. These are serious investors and it’s taken this process to a completely new level.” Marsh says that in-person meetings were expected to resume soon and that entrepreneurs interested in accessing the potential funding pipeline can find application forms and information on the WECAN Investors website. Typically, WECAN Investors meet monthly to listen to proposals from entrepreneurs seeking investment, with decisions relating to such funding being made after a deep-dive vetting and due diligence process. Interested in investing? Please contact Deborah Livneh, Eng. MBA by calling C: 519-562-1820 or by emailing: Executive.Director@WeAngelNetwork.com.

WECAN Investors welcomes new interested investors

www.weangelnetwork.com • 519-562-1820 10

The Windsor Essex Capital Angel Network (WECAN Investors) is a members-only angel group comprised of accredited investors seeking investment opportunities in promising, early-stage businesses. WECAN Investors network exposes its members to vetted innovative companies and helps facilitate the investment process. We welcome new accredited investors in Windsor-Essex and ChathamKent to join the local WECAN Investors angel investment.

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In the midst of a health crisis and pandemic, which sadly has seen businesses close across the region, downtown Windsor appears to be holding its own and bouncing back. At least a dozen new businesses have opened or are in the process of opening. Debi Croucher, Executive Director of the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association, says “It’s exciting in challenging times to see so many people seizing on opportunities to open new businesses in our city core.” According to Croucher, Ray Chu and his wife Kim are re-opening Ray & Kim’s Super Convenience at 352 Ouellette Avenue, which has been closed since June 2017 because of a fire that damaged two adjoining properties. Elsewhere, the Cookie Bar, a gourmet cookie store, has opened at 471 Pelissier Street close to Syd’s Subs on Pelissier. The Chatham Street Diner has opened in the former Snackbar-B-Q space at 39 Chatham Street East and Dhesi Swaad, an Indian restaurant, has opened at 21 Chatham Street East. Elsewhere, Roti Bowl and Soul is open at 359 Ouellette Avenue and World Space, a business incubator, has opened in the former World Cottage store at 553 Ouellette Avenue. It also houses a law office for Nadia Bhatti, daughter of World Cottage’s former owner, on the second floor. There’s also a late-night sandwich shop slated to open in the former Weeks Jewellers store at 41 Park Street West. And there are also two cannabis shops — J. Supply Co., 545 Ouellette Avenue and Green Town, 24 Chatham Street West. Other businesses, which have opened in recent weeks, include Green Bus Café, 1057 Ouellette Avenue and Turbo Espresso Bar, 285 Ouellette Avenue.

Two years after opening a storefront café at 1284 Ottawa Street, The Windsor Tea Emporium is expanding again and opening a bakery next to its current café, just across the street. Now located at 1295 Ottawa Street with its new bakery next door at 1281, the local business is brewing up even more success. “We’ll be providing a full range of baked goods including pies, wedding cakes, birthday cakes and cupcakes,” indicates owner Mary Christine Smith. The new bakery name — The Windsor Cake Emporium — totally complements the current tea and café business. Smith says she simply ran out of room in her original space and jumped at the chance to move across the street in July of this year. When an adjacent storefront recently became available, she decided to take that one on as well. The store needs some infrastructure upgrades and Smith expects the bakery to be open in November. Starting out as a small at-home business, but as clientele grew, so did the need for a brick-and-mortar location. “It’s a great neighbourhood with a lot of walk-up traffic and we have really grown since opening,” adds Smith. Windsor Tea Emporium is the 2019 Biz X Award winner for “Everyone’s Cup Of Tea”. For more information, visit: WindsorTeaEmporium.com. Little Foot Foods, a small Windsor company established in September 2013, is taking on the giants by having their gourmet pierogis sold at Sobeys grocery stores in Lakeshore, Amherstburg, London and Chatham. While acknowledging that it’s hard to find shelf space in large national chain stores, Rob Myers, who co-owns Little Foot Foods with his wife Rachael

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(2019 Biz X Award winner for “Marvelous Millennial Manager”), says it was largely good fortune that gave them this new opportunity. “A customer who is friends with the grocery manager at Sobeys in London, convinced him to try our products,” explains Rob. “After a few test runs, we were in and it’s been a great experience to deal with large chain stores as well as our regular roster of local businesses.” The Myers launched the business out of a small commercial kitchen in the Riverside Baseball Centre, and once they realized business was going to continue to grow, in 2017 they moved to their current location at 1404 Tecumseh Road East. They bought a pierogi machine, which folds and pinches the product prior to boiling and packaging, from a church that no longer needed it. “It saves a lot of time, but everything else is still done the old-fashioned way with largely locally sourced products,” Myers points out. Little Foot Foods brings in ingredients from The Cheese Bar, The Magical Mushroom Hub and Robbie’s Gourmet Sausage Co., among other producers. In addition to 35 varieties of pierogis, Little Foot sells cabbage rolls, stuffed peppers, jalapeno poppers, cheddar and chive biscuits, soup, meatloaf, meatballs and chocolate chip cookies. Their items are sold in about 25 different locations, including DeMarco’s Fine Foods, 1349 Grand Marais Road West. For a list of locations see: LittleFootFoods.ca. A little more than three years after resurrecting the Hi Ho Diner restaurant business, owner Peter Dedvukaj is opening a third restaurant at 2240 Huron Church Road in Windsor. Dedvukaj opened the first two at 2885 Howard Avenue, adjacent to the Ivy Rose Motel, which he also owns, and at 3691 Walker Road, which previously was home to Champions Roadhouse. The Hi Ho restaurants were launched in 1937 by the Fortin family, and after going dormant for a few years, they were re-opened in June 2017. For further details, refer to the website: HiHoDiner.com.

Pre-recording Sessions For The “38th Annual Easter Seals Ontario (Windsor-Essex) Telethon” September 26, 2020 at St. Clair College, Main Campus, 2000 Talbot Road, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

The pandemic may have postponed the original telethon date in late March, but that did not stop the regional Easter Seals’ team, — in collaboration with its partners and sponsors — from coming up with a creative way to support kids with physical disabilities for the “Fall is Easter Seals Season” campaign. Segments were recorded in late September inside the Student Life Centre at St. Clair College, while ensuring safe physical distancing. Sponsors and supporters were recognized in two broadcasts (Oct. 31 and November 7) on CTV Windsor. Donations were also accepted by phone and online when the segments aired. Find out more information on how you can help at: EasterSeals.org. 1. The two regional ambassadors for 2020 are Brigid Kidd and Alex Bondy. Proceeds from this year’s campaign and Telethon go towards funding of essential mobility and accessibility equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers, ramps and lifts, for kids with physical disabilities. 2. Mike Kelly, Deerbrook Realty INC. Brokerage Sales Representative and Accredited Senior Agent is a Director of

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Partnerships at Easter Seals and a volunteer. He has been recognized for his commitment to helping children with physical disabilities on the national level through Easter Seals. Alex Toldo, Technical Sales Manager for Nova Tool and Mold Inc., presented a cheque for $25,000 on behalf of The Toldo Foundation, the presenting sponsor of the telethon.

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3. Susanne Bergeron, John Sutton, Club President and Corey Rainhard donated $1,250 on behalf of The Rotary Club of Amherstburg. 4. On hand to donate $10,000 from St. Clair College to the cause was John Fairley, V.P. College Communications & Community Relations.

5. Ram Sridhar entered his fifth year as the Telethon Committee Chair and has volunteered with the local Easter Seals chapter since 2008. He is also an Economist at Injury Law Group.

Darryl Fanick, Leslie Boutet and Joe Brannagan, OECTA Secondary President, Windsor Essex Unit with a cheque for $2,500,°with additional anticipated pledges exceeding $5,000 to come.

6. Telethon Host, Mark McKenzie from 89X accepted a $5,000 donation from Biz X magazine represented by Columnist Joe McParland.

8. Members of The Legion Ontario Command, Riverside Branch 255, Windsor: Jim Dunn, Zone A-1 Commander; Bernie Kelly; Bruce Tribute, Sgt. at Arms; Susan McAree, Zone A-1 Secretary and Frank Maheux, Colour Guard were pleased to contribute $2,500°with additional pledges to come exceeding $5,000.

7. Photographed from the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association (OECTA) were: Dean Hughes, Adriana Palamides,

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9. Working in collaboration with David Jacob Duke Creative Design Studio, CircleBox Video was on-site — capturing footage to air for the broadcast — and represented by: Michael Poirier, Video Production Technologist St. Clair College; Jolie Inthavong, Media Artist and Eric Tulp, Technical Director. Thanks to all who donated to the “Easter Seals Ontario (Windsor-Essex) Telethon” to help raise $105,290 when the segments ran throughout the showing of two Harry Potter movies on CTV Windsor.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN ° Brookstone Windows & Doors, 3423 Walker Road — which began in Windsor before expanding throughout Ontario — has been recognized by Growth 500 as the 20th fastest growing company in Canada in 2020. Founded in 2014 by Ken Sherman, this replacement window and door retailer has grown from operating out of Sherman’s house in 2014 to four full-service branches, with operations in eight markets in southern Ontario. He started the business by knocking on doors in the mornings to book appointments and then meeting with those people in the afternoon and evenings. A commitment to good oldfashioned, honest customer communication supported with an integrated technology solutions platform, gives their team members the information they need to make decisions to help customers at all times. As well, it provides the management team real-time insights into every aspect of the business, allowing for quick pivots when needed (COVID-19) and understanding and anticipating trends for longer-term planning. The key to successful growth, according to Sherman, boils down to three critical factors: “First, treat our customers better than I would expect to be treated. Second, hire only smart people — smart makes growth faster and easier. Third, leverage technology wherever possible.” So what’s next for Brookstone? “We continue to be on a very aggressive growth trajectory,” he explains. “Though the COVID-19 pandemic slowed us down a bit, we will be operational in all markets across Ontario by 2024, while expanding into other product lines, including roofing and siding.” To get in touch with Sherman and his team log on to: Brookstone.ca.

NEW IN BIZ ° Logic Executive Search and Workplace Solutions in Windsor strives to be a valued, strategic business partner providing the highest level of executive recruitment expertise and customized workplace strategies. President, Jennifer Charron launched the business on September 21, 2020, which also focuses on Outplacement Services and Dual Career Program. Logic’s community focused approach and national reach has proven successful in identifying and attracting professional and executive talent in communities across Ontario,

with a focus in the Not-for-Profit, Finance, Healthcare and Manufacturing sectors.°For more information, view their website: LogicExecutiveSearch.com.

ON THE MOVE

Kristin Kennedy is the new Chief Executive Officer for Erie Shores HealthCare in Leamington, ON. Photo courtesy of ESHC.

° The Board of Directors for Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC; website: ErieShoresHealthcare.ca) in Leamington, has appointed Kristin Kennedy as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The ESHC Board of Directors, in partnership with Waterhouse Executive Search, completed an extensive and indepth exploration process with numerous skilled and experienced candidates. Kennedy has worked in the healthcare sector for 25 years and holds the designation Certified Health Executive (CHE) and has a Master of Health Management degree from McMaster University. She is enrolled in an LLM Health Law degree program at Osgoode Hall Law School, York University. McMaster University awarded Kennedy the “Professional Achievement” award in 2019, recognizing that her career endeavours and achievements have made a significant contribution to healthcare management. This year Kennedy was one of seven Registered Nurses selected from over 70 applicants in Ontario to join the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee for the College of Nurses of Ontario. Kennedy worked as the VP Patient Services and Chief Nursing Executive at ESHC and is an Assistant Professor at McMaster University. “It is an honour to be selected as the next CEO of Erie Shores HealthCare,” states Kennedy. “Living in one of the communities that Erie Shores HealthCare serves, I firmly believe in its value and a strong footprint in Windsor and B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

Essex County. I look forward to advancing our accomplishments as a hospital and further our collaborations with our many partners. I am most excited to start this next chapter in my career alongside the many dedicated and passionate staff and physicians I have worked with over the last three years.” Kennedy takes over from Dr. Ross Moncur, who has served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since May 2020. Dr. Moncur remains with the Hospital in his role as Chief of Staff.

HALL OF FAME ° For the second year in a row, the Comfort Inn South Windsor located at 2955 Dougall Avenue has been recognized with a prestigious Gold Award from Choice Hotels Canada. The Gold Award designation goes only to the top 10 percent of hotels in the Choice Hotels Canada portfolio, representing a tremendous accomplishment. “Now more than ever, we are thrilled to recognize the leaders in our industry,” says Brian Leon, President of Choice Hotels Canada. “Their hard work and effort raise the bar when it comes to hospitality excellence and we are proud to have them in our system.” As one of the top properties operating under the Comfort Inn brand, the hotel’s staff has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to superior service. Award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports. William Zhao, President and Owner of WBSZ Holdings o/a Comfort Inn South Windsor proudly states: “It is an honour to work with a team of professionals who consistently exceed expectations of our guests and our franchisor. Thank you to my GM, Justin Barker, and to our great team for their dedication to excellence.” Michael Durante, Franchise Performance Consultant at Choice Hotels Canada adds, “Congratulations to William, Justin, and the team at Comfort Inn South Windsor. Winning a Gold Award is an achievement in itself, but winning it two years in a row shows consistency, commitment, and dedication to providing exemplary service to our guests.” The Comfort Inn South Windsor hotel participates in the award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty rewards program, rated a top loyalty rewards

program by both°USA Today’s°10 “Best Readers’ Choice” Awards and by U.S. News & World Report for three consecutive years. Membership is free and offers fast rewards, instant perks, and exclusive member rates when booking directly at:°ChoiceHotels.com. For more information or to make a reservation at this award-winning inn, check out: ChoiceHotels.com/cn318. ° The Leamington District Chamber of Commerce presented its 26th Annual “Business Excellence Awards,” sponsored by Libro Credit Union, on September 30, 2020 at the Roma Club soccer field in an outdoor, drive-in style ceremony. The 2020 winners are as follows: “Young Entrepreneur/Professional” — Faith Monaco, Impact Health and Fitness Centre; “Youth Excellence” — Hannah ° Iacobelli; “Small Business Excellence” (under nine employees) — Green Heart Catering; “Small Business Excellence” (with 10 to 50 employees) — Chartwell Leamington Retirement Residence; “Excellence in Food Services” — Crave Family Grill and Pub; “Customer First” — Canadian Tire Leamington; “Industrial/Manufacturing” — Global Pack Packaging Solutions; Innovation” — Seacliff Energy; “Welcoming Accessibility” — Leamington Half Century Centre; “Warm Welcome” — Sweet Retreat; “Positive Professionals” — Corey Douglas Robertson; “Grow South Essex” — Aphria Diamond; “Libro Sponsor’s Choice” — Cured Craft Brewing Co. and the “Alf Bennie” Award — Paul Mastronardi. Find out more about the chamber, their events and see a business directory on: LeamingtonChamber.com.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO . . . ° Timeless Treasures and its owner Laurean Stobbs celebrate a huge milestone on November 22, 2000. Since opening the doors, two decades ago, she has received numerous awards, including two Biz X Awards (2004 “Rare Finds Retreat” and 2014 “Local Treasure Trove”). Over the years, she has experienced some ups and downs and is now navigating through COVID-19 challenges, like so many others, with all necessary safety protocols in place. Stobbs would like to thank all her loyal customers and consignors for 20 years of support. To keep up with the latest details about this consignment showroom of furniture and home décor check her social media pages on Facebook and Instagram @timelesstreasureswindsor or stop by their location at 1747 Wyandotte Street East in Olde Walkerville.

MEAL COMBINATIONS (minimum 10 people per order)

Celebrate the Holidays at home or work with individually prepared holiday meals delivered safely, hot and fresh.

Fresh Rolls and Butter FESTIVE SALAD Romaine Hearts, Mandarin Oranges, Dried Cranberries & Roasted Almonds served with a Riesling Vinaigrette OR HOLIDAY SALAD Green Apple and Roasted Beets with Baby Greens served with a Cranberry Vinaigrette And your choice of Sliced Glazed Ham with Spiced Apple Chutney, Penne with Blush Sauce, Scalloped or Whipped Potatoes, Buttered Vegetable Medley $18.95 person Sliced Slow Roasted Turkey Breast with Pan Gravy, Bread Stuffing, Scalloped or Whipped Potatoes, Buttered String Beans $16.95 person

Holiday Treats Holiday Specialty Cookies (minimum 2 dozen)

$1.50 ea

Gingerbread Cheesecake

$2.95 ea

10” Fruit Pies with a choice of Apple, Strawberry Rhubarb or Blueberry $14.95 ea

201 Riverside Dr. W., Windsor

519.252.8311 ext. 4651 stclaircentre.stclaircollege.ca

Cranberry Glazed Roasted Chicken, Scalloped or Whipped Potatoes, Penne with Tomato Basil Sauce, Maple Glazed Carrot Coins $17.95 person Slow Roasted Beef with Mushroom Jus, Scalloped or Whipped Potatoes, Penne with Tomato Basil Sauce, Buttered Baby Carrots $20.95 person

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The Windsor Pizza Club By Dave Hall

rea residents have long believed that Windsor’s pizza is the best in Canada and now there’s a club to help them celebrate the region’s finest pies. The Windsor Pizza Club, aided by a $41,000 grant from the federal government, was launched by Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) in mid-October to help local businesses regain their footing after a long and difficult period caused by COVID-19. “Ottawa may be the seat of government, but Windsor is the pizza capital of Canada,” says Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kuzmierczyk. Funded in part by the Canadian Heritage Fund, the club is a free membership-based program developed to share the history of Windsor-style pizza and its importance in the Windsor culinary scene. “The opportunity to celebrate our pizza and to brag about it to locals and visitors alike, excites us because we know that our worldfamous and unique style of pizza is worthy of the accolades,” remarks Gordon Orr, TWEPI Chief Executive Officer. The club was developed to share the history of Windsor pizza and its importance in the local culinary scene. Antonino’s Original Pizza has strong roots in the pizza industry with its special recipe for a thin and crisp crust passed down from the father of the current owner. Photo courtesy of Mediaduo.

Putting on a show with a little friendly pizza tossing “competition,” from left are: Irek Kuzmierczyk, Windsor-Tecumseh MP; Joe Ciaravino, President, Antonino’s Original Pizza Inc. and Gordon Orr, TWEPI Chief Executive Officer. The October media event was held outdoors at Antonino’s Original Pizza, 4350 Howard Avenue, Windsor. Photo courtesy of Catherine Racicot/Antonino’s.

From pineapple slices to shredded pepperoni and from olives to different kinds of cheese, Windsor pizzas have gained an international reputation over the decades and this club will attempt to make them even more popular. The eight local pizza restaurants involved in the program include: Antonino’s Original Pizza, 4350 Howard Avenue (OriginalPizza.ca); Arcata Pizza, 3021 Dougall Avenue (ArcataPizzeria.com); Armando’s Pizza, 326 Cabana Road East (ArmandosPizza.com); Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue (CabotoClub.com); Capri Pizzeria, 3020 Dougall Avenue (CapriPizza.ca); Franco’s Restaurant, 1449 Tecumseh Road East (FrancosPizzaWindsor.com); Oven 360, 1349 Grand Marais Road West (Oven360.com) and Sam’s Pizzeria & Cantina, 2215 Wyandotte

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Street West (SamsPizzeriaAndCantina.ca). Joe Ciaravino, Owner of Antonino’s Original Pizza, believes the club is the right idea at the right time for many of the establishments on the list. “It’s a wonderful idea to promote something that Windsor has become famous for over the years,” states Ciaravino, who hosted the kickoff event on the front lawn of his Howard Avenue restaurant. “They did a wonderful job on the logo for the club and I’m excited about it because anything that drives business to your door is very encouraging for all of us.” Antonino’s dates back to 1959 when Joe’s father established the restaurant. It took a hiatus when his father died when Joe was 15 and was revived in 1999, and has now been running successfully for more than 20 years.

“We’ve always been 95 percent takeout, so when restaurants were forced to close, we were lucky in that we had a lot of systems in place,” explains Joe. “We don’t take cash or debit so we can reduce the touch points. We take credit card payments in advance and we have runners who bring your pizza out to your vehicle.” Kevork Kalaydjian, Co-owner of Capri Pizzeria, with business partner Jim Koumoutsidis, also believes the club is a great idea and will bring even more attention to Windsor’s roster of great pizza establishments. “Anytime there are marketing surveys conducted locally, none of the large chain pizza restaurants finish near the top in the rankings,” claims Kalaydjian. “It’s always the local Windsor pizzerias who get all the attention and the praise.” According to Kalaydjian, the TWEPI initiative will do nothing but give more attention to pizza restaurants, once people start picking up their free membership cards and start making the rounds. “I handed out dozens of cards in the first few days, which is a great sign that this club is going to work and be very helpful for all of us,” he indicates. Membership cards can be picked up at any participating pizzerias and once a club member gets a card stamped at all

Eight local pizza shops, including Capri Pizzeria are helping to celebrate the world famous Windsor-style pizza to locals and visitors alike. Like what you see? Capri Pizzeria offers take-out, delivery and catering! Photo courtesy of Capri Pizzeria.

eight restaurants, it can be redeemed at WindsorPizzaClub.ca for a free homedelivered t-shirt (within Windsor Essex boundaries or a $10 delivery fee for nonresidents applies). For Remo Tortola, Owner of Oven 360 on Grand Marais Road West, it’s a great opportunity to work with other pizzerias across the city, many of which have struggled during the COVID-19 crisis, “It’s been difficult, but I think this idea will help bring out customers again,” says Tortola who was a pizza chef at the Caboto Club for many years before starting his own business. “There are lots of great pizzerias in this town and anything that brings us all more business is a great idea.” He adds, “I don’t view our competitors as my enemies because we are all in this business together. It’s a very positive

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idea and I’m very happy to be part of it.” Orr mentions that the club is a natural follow-up to TWEPI’s popular “Barrels Bottles and Brews Trail”, “EPIC Tasting Pass” (wine country tours) and the “Coffee Culture” program. “When the federal government announced it was seeking more ideas for Cultural Heritage funding, we brainstormed at TWEPI and came up with the idea of the pizza club because Windsor pizza’s quality is known far and wide,” says Orr. Food and drink are among the top trip motivators in the Windsor Essex region and visitors love to live like a local, and the pizza club will help showcase one of the most famous foods in the area. Two years ago, TWEPI was awarded the Culinary Leadership award from the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario and the Culinary Tourism Alliance, for leadership in culinary tourism, in part for the creation of programs such as The Windsor Pizza Club. There are eight pizzerias in the first phase of this program and TWEPI will likely add more once they move into a second phase. And when social distancing measures are more relaxed, Windsor-style pizza experiences and tours will be created at local pizza restaurants to help celebrate the area’s culinary story. In the meantime, welcome to the club!

COVER STORY

The 23rd Annual Biz X Awards Tribute

“We Are All Survivors” Award Write-ups By Rebecca Wright & Jim Murphy

“I’ll go tally the votes” is a famous phrase said by “Survivor” TV host Jeff Probst. Locally, for the 2020 Biz X Awards, model Jay Glover counts the ballots to determine which nominee has the most votes in each category. This business or individual is then crowned the “Sole Survivor” (overall winner) at the final “Tribal Council.” On the TV show the prize is $1 million (or higher). For 24 of the 206 Biz X nominees, their trophy is the golden “pillars of success” Award (also an “Immunity Idol”). Photo by Rod Denis.

ach year our award story begins by referencing how owning a business is never an easy job. Considering what we have all gone through in 2020 — and still are experiencing — this is an understatement! Business owners must possess plenty of stamina in these times of uncertainty. The battle to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save our economy, has puts us all in a “fight to survive.” The business world is often referenced as a “corporate jungle” — dangerous, challenging, unpredictable and at times, operating with no rules. Throw in a global pandemic and “only the strong survive”! “Survival of the fittest” as Darwin theorized. All things considered, “We Are All Survivors” was chosen as the official theme for the 2020 Biz X Awards. It is appropriate in many ways. No matter what the industry — finance, legal, construction, retail, digital, hospitality, real estate and more — entrepreneurs develop their own “survival kits” and have the guts to do whatever it takes to keep the cash flowing, the bills paid, the employees motivated and the customers happy. To quote some of the lyrics in “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child . . . “I’m gonna work

harder, I’m not gonna give up, Keep on survivin’, I’m gonna make it”. This perfectly describes the resilience of local business owners, top managers and self-employed individuals in Windsor, Essex County and Pelee Island. And “WE WILL SURVIVE” the biggest challenge yet — the coronavirus. We all have that “survival instinct” just like the castaways in the CBS TV show, “Survivor.” The 20 year old show is as popular as ever with its 40th season finale — “Winners At War” — featuring 20 previous winners and airing in mid-May. Elements of the successful series: the “Immunity Idol” (a Biz X Award maybe?); “Tribal Council” (our Judges); “tribes” (the award category); game challenges; the concept of castaways being voted off the island (their tiki torch then extinguished) and the “Sole Survivor” (final winner), somewhat relate to our awards’ process. Throughout the Biz X Awards edition, you’ll see elements of this “survivor” and jungle theme. Editorial graphics feature tiki masks, torches and trees with references to TV shows/music and earthy colours (like brown and green) in the photo captions, whenever possible. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

The mission of our annual awards edition is to honour the best in the biz that Windsor, Essex and Pelee Island has to offer. This starts with the business owners and people who must “survive the test of time” and have been able to adapt to COVID-19 challenges by offering new products or services, or even changed the way they do business. For example; working remotely, moving sales online, adding curbside pickup and delivery services etc. 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. In short, they have the necessary “survival skills” needed to be successful in the current business climate. The Awards recognize and honour the business professionals in the region who are constantly working hard to be #1 in their industries. Which businesses, organizations and people will receive the golden Biz X Award — the “pillars of success” — this year? In 2020, our 23rd annual awards tribute, 206 nominees competed in 24 categories. This year, the online voting poll ran from September 16 until September 25 with over 30,000 votes coming in. Our award history goes back to 1998, and to date, over 724 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 receive a plaque from The Trophy Boys (as shown here), to display in their place of business; promotion in our awards issue (print and digital) and an invite to our gala held in 2021 (due to gathering restrictions the 2020 gala had to be moved). As well, they’re given the opportunity to record a thank you message, which will be shown on YourTV (Channel HD 700) in January 2021, on the “Plugged In” show. Four main Award sponsors include: Motor City Community Credit Union; WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Centre; St. Clair College Alumni Association and Tecumseh Mall. Let’s fill you in on how a business or individual became a nominee or the overall winner of their category, by recapping the “laws of the jungle” (rules) for the Biz X Awards.

Each year a list of award categories is 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 late July until early September, using an online form with a section for supporting evidence included. Only a single nomination is required to qualify for 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 from mid-September until the end of the month. People could only vote once per category, per IP address, (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, with no one knowing 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 County, or Pelee Island, which includes LaSalle, Lakeshore, Tecumseh, Amherstburg, Kingsville, Leamington and Essex Centre. For categories in the PEOPLE section, nominees must be 19 years of age or over and reside in Windsor, Essex County or Pelee Island. 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 nonprofits 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 categories 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 can be included. No media outlets can participate in any of the categories. Nominees are given an opportunity to submit information online, answering specific questions set out by Biz X magazine, upon notification that they were nominated. Information from the nomination forms and online submissions, along with the voting poll results, is then reviewed by each Judge on his or her own time. All nominees are required to submit information online 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 should they be determined the winner. Judges also research each nominee at their own discretion. The Judges meet after the online voting poll closes, discuss their findings with each other 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 ensure impartiality to all advertisers, suppliers, and friends. As well, Judges cannot participate on “Judgment Night” conversations or the 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. There is an exception to this rule if a Judge has hired or worked with all nominees in the category. We consider him/her an expert in this industry with valuable input to offer and they are permitted to vote. As well, in large categories, such as #8 “Powerhouse Professional” — where certain Judges know multiple nominees and all Judges would have had to declare a bias as each knows at least one nominee — they are allowed to participate or there would be no voting Judges! 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 to 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 and 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 (without the knowledge of the advertiser). The entire process is kept top secret with only a select few knowing the final outcome during the printing process of the magazine and no-one seeing the winner badge in their ad until the annual Biz X Awards Tribute is released to the public in mid November. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

THE JUDGING “TRIBAL COUNCIL”

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MCCCU.com As shown in the photo on page 20, Biz X Award Judges from left are . . . Six-time Judge Jason Kerluck is the Area Manager/Leadership Coach for Soul Foods Group in Windsor Essex and also writes extensively about business and leadership in his spare time. “I am thrilled to be asked to be a Judge again for 2020,” he exclaims. “With the year being as it is, this is a great way to showcase the businesses that have weathered the storm and made a difference!” Throughout his years as a Judge, he’s maintained a favourite category each time. “I’m still a fan of ‘Powerhouse Professional,’” he states. “These people put it all on the line to create opportunity for others with only their skill and will to count on!” He feels that the Biz X Awards are very important because they honour the many individuals who give it their all to keep their dream alive of running their own business. “It’s such a risk with both reward and failure equally possible,” Kerluck says. “This year . . . even more so!” Justin Fox works in the Registrars’ Office at St. Clair College and serves as Chair for the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity Windsor Essex. Fox has been a member of the Judging team for four years, which is very exhilarating for him as he gets to once again be the voice for the younger generation of business professionals in the YQG community. If he had to pick his favourite category this year it too would be “Powerhouse Professional”. “What impressed me the most — besides it being the largest category for nominations this year — was how many young guns were nominated,” he points out. “It’s always nice seeing the young professionals in our community getting recognized for their hard work and passion.” Third-time Judge Chad Goulet is a Project Manager at Paul Davis. For over a decade he owned his own cleaning/restoration business and decided it was time to share his knowledge and experience on a bigger scale.

Goulet is IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified for water, fire and smoke restoration. His hands-on construction involvement is a tremendous asset in assessing residential emergency remediation. He has worked side by side with the community to help them deal with their losses during disasters and has outstanding customer service recognition. Judge Goulet received the 2019 Paul Davis “Rookie of the Year” Award for Rookie Restoration Estimators and Restoration Supervisors who produce the most sales in the calendar year. He believes that out of the past 23 years of celebrating the Biz X Awards locally, this year the awards are more significant. “With all the challenges 2020 has thrown at business owners, this is probably the most important time to recognize all the business owners that have suffered and soldiered on through the pandemic shutdowns,” he expresses. Justin Barker is the General Manager of the Comfort Inn South Windsor and is back for his 14th year as a Biz X Awards Judge. As the Manager of the two-time Gold Award Comfort Inn South Windsor, he is keenly aware of what it takes to succeed in today’s business climate. Barker is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Windsor/ Essex Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association. Barker mentions that any of the categories pertaining to the food industry or exceptional shopping experiences interest him the most. “Many guests who stay at the hotel are looking for unique locations for meals and shopping,” he states. “Biz X is the premiere magazine in Windsor Essex where you can gain valuable knowledge on local business and companies, each issue, but even more so in the annual Awards Tribute.” Judge Barker believes the Biz X Awards highlight the leading local companies, organizations and entrepreneurs, which creates awareness among the general public in the communities in which they operate. She’s back! After a three-year hiatus Sabrina DeMarco returns to the Judging team for a third year. As Executive Director for the Small Business Centre at the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation, Judge DeMarco and her team work directly with new and existing small business owners and entrepreneurs to support the growth of this important economic driver in the Windsor Essex region. “I’m excited to once again be a part of this important issue, which not only celebrates the hard work and dedication put forth by the business community as a whole, but also recognizes and celebrates the important contribution that local and independently owned business operators make to our neighbourhoods and quality of life,” DeMarco states. She also

At the final “Tribal Council” the Judges (our “jury”) vote for who they think deserves to win, from left: Jason Kerluck, Justin Fox, Chad Goulet, Justin Barker, Sabrina DeMarco and Jeremy Renaud. After reviewing the nomination forms, information submitted online by nominees, plus conducting their own research, the Judges met at the isolated location (food, fire and shelter on hand, LOL!) known as Average Joes, 1286 Lauzon Road, Windsor (see: AverageJoesWindsor.com). This “Judgment Night” took place in October in a private room where discussions occurred on who should be the “Sole Survivor” in each category (“tribe”) and the secret voting ballots were collected. Individual Judge photos digitally merged to one group shot by Rod Denis.

believes the Biz X Awards are important because it brings the community together to celebrate the business leaders who make our region a unique place to live, work and play. Jeremy Renaud is a new Judge on the panel, but no stranger to the awards process having earned the 2018 “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year” Biz X Award for “Windsor ComiCon”. He has an affinity for all categories as he enjoys seeing community professionals — and their businesses — succeed by going above and beyond in their professions to benefit others, while strengthening the community as a whole. Renaud is currently a professor in Sport and Recreation Management at St. Clair College, as well as the newly appointed eSports Coordinator for Lancer Gaming at The University of Windsor. He also works for Easter Seals Ontario (Windsor-Essex chapter) as the Regional Development Officer while volunteering in the community through The Miracle League of Riverside Baseball at Farrow Riverside Miracle Park and The Rotary Club of Windsor-St. Clair. He is also the GM of Canada’s “Sport Card & Memorabilia Expo.” He looks forward to celebrating the local business professionals who have worked so hard to get through this pandemic, via this year’s Biz X Awards.

Décor “Queen Of The Jungle”

Step aside, “Sheena” there’s a new queen in this jungle! One who definitely brings our theme to life for the Biz X Awards year after year.

Special thanks go out to Diane Spencler, Owner of Designs by Diane, who created our jungle background and supplied props for the photos on pages 18 and 20, and our front cover. The cover and kickoff photos were taken on location at her venue, 5885 Huron Church Line in LaSalle, as was the background for the Judges “Tribal Council” shot. The Judges were individually photographed and digitally manipulated together, in order to maintain social distancing regulations, by Biz X photographer Rod Denis. If you have an upcoming event, celebration, or need décor rental, you can contact Spencler via: DesignsByDiane.org or at: WindsorMicroWeddings.com.

“The Tribe Has Spoken”

Deborah Jones, Publisher of Biz X magazine and her entire “tribe” wish to thank the Judges, sponsors, suppliers, and most importantly, our valued advertisers and readers for their support during the production of this edition in these challenging times. Everyone at Biz X is equally as proud of the 206 nominees we “welcome to the jungle” and have listed in our 23rd annual Awards edition. They’re not only “surviving and thriving,” but deserve major credit as only the very best were nominated. As the words at the top of this section suggest, it’s now time to “reveal the votes.” So prepare to read the successful “survival stories” of the businesses/organizations and people in Windsor, Essex and Pelee Island who have been selected as the 24 winners to earn a Biz X Award for 2020 . . .

Award Category banners:© Can Stock Photo/Pazhyna Sponsor Graphics: © Can Stock Photo/lenm Photo frames:© Can Stock Photo/dinictis Past Winner Ad background page:© Can Stock Photo/putut

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1.°“Outstanding New Business Of 2020”

BUSINESS & SERVICE

(Businesses that opened from September 1, 2019 to September 1, 2020) *No restaurants, food trucks, or bars are included as they can be in the Hospitality & Entertainment Categories. The nominees are . . . ° Best Known Method Delivery Service, (January 2020), Leamington Facebook.com/bestknownmethod, ° Emerson Supply Co. (February 2020), 41 Talbot St. North, Essex ° Excelsior Auto Detailing, (April 2020), LaSalle, ExcelsiorDetailing.ca ° Featherstone Music & Performing Arts Company (September 2019), 628 Monmouth Rd., Studio #6, Windsor ° Fetch Moto (January 2020), 2455 Wyandotte St. West, Windsor ° Magnolia Ranch (November 2019), 178 County Rd. 50 East, Harrow ° River Bookshop (August 2020), 67 Richmond St., Amherstburg ° The Parlour Ice Cream Co. (June 2020), 5881 Malden Rd. North, Unit D3, LaSalle

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WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . River Bookshop This year’s global pandemic has many turning to more traditional forms of relaxation and entertainment, such as escaping the stress and pressure of real life and losing yourself in a good book. Located in a newly renovated 1885 building in the heart of Amherstburg, River Bookshop opened in August 2020 and is the perfect place to find that literary escape. Owners Richard

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and Colleen Peddie focused on bringing the building’s exterior back to its late Victorian glory along with a beautiful, colourful mural on the west side of the building, by Harrow Artist David Creed. “The River Bookshop not only boasts approximately 6,000 books on diverse subjects like climate change and social justice, we also plan to have numerous speaker/author events in our upstairs event space and in the shop,” explain Richard and Colleen. “We hope to inspire, engage, educate and entertain our community with our progressive events and titles.” Their goal, through their bookshop, is to build not only a business, but a community “where people feel as comfortable sitting and chatting as they do purchasing one of our popular novels.” Inside the “Victorian new and now” décor is°a whimsical mural in their children’s section and comfortable seating around a cozy fireplace. Upstairs there is an event space called “The Hole in the Wall”. As Richard points out, “Our bookshop conducts a number of series on topics like the climate crisis, mental health, urban planning and more. We hope that by hosting presentations on these subjects, we will shine a light on the issues in our community.” The event space hosts regular speaker/author events on subjects such as: Amherstburg history, racism, sports,

birding, healthy eating and everything in between, as well as significant readings and author signings. The charming bookshop is geared towards people of all ages and features an extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction titles. The children’s section has pillows to sit on and colourful, fun books to read and purchase. “Our six employees are knowledgeable in all areas of literature and can recommend a good book for anyone, from your child to your grandmother,” mentions Richard. And their website (RiverBookshop.com) will soon offer a look at every title they hold and those next to be stocked on the shelves, as well as a newsletter on everything happening with the business and any upcoming events. “This new little up and coming bookshop in downtown Amherstburg is well on its way to becoming a community hub,” writes nominator Meghan E. “It is beautiful, has friendly and knowledgeable staff, and is a wonderful place to spend some time, whether you are local resident of the town or just visiting.” Judge Kerluck echoes nominator Meghan’s praises. “I checked out River Bookshop and it just gave a vibe of wanting to get in there, curl up and read a great book,” comments Judge Kerluck. “It’s pretty cool. They just love and embrace everything they’re all about.”

2.°“Charged Up ° Electrical Expert” (The electrical firm to hire for big or small commercial, industrial or residential jobs.) The nominees are . . . ° Hicks Electric Ltd., 4411 County Rd. 18, Amherstburg ° ProTrades Mechanical, 2714 Meighen Rd., Windsor ° RFG Electrical, 13007 Hyland Side Rd., Essex ° Syles Mechanical Services Ltd., 3255 Odessa Drive, Windsor ° WHC Construction, 2676 Jefferson Blvd., Unit 100, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . RFG Electrical After having a successful two and a half years with RFG Electrical’s sister company, RFG Plumbing — Owners Frank Giles and his sons, Ryan and Brandon along with Bill Gawley — decided to launch RFG Electrical in January 2019. “Within our first year and a half we’ve enrolled one

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of our general labourers in the electrical apprentice program at St. Clair College, we’ve purchased a work vehicle, built a solid client base of commercial and residential customers and won two awards,” state the owners. They believe the one thing that sets them apart from other electrical companies is the program they use for scheduling, “House Call Pro”, which allows customers to get an estimate via email, read it at their leisure and approve it in their own time, online. “The day of the job, when the team member assigned to the job hits the ‘On My Way’ button, it notifies the customer that we’re on our way and shows them a picture of the team member that will be doing the job, which allows for safety of the customer to recognize who will be on their property,” they describe. RFG Electrical strives for excellence in their day-to-day operations from the top all the way to the bottom (see: RFGElectrical.com for a list of all services). “From the initial visit to meet the customer, to the actual job, we always treat our customers like gold,” the owners assert. They also treat their employees very well, too. Throughout the year they have minigetaways for training and upgrading their education on certain software, or tools that they use, as well as attending trade shows to learn about products and innovative ways to

better serve their team and customers. RFG Electrical currently has one electrician and one apprentice, but will be expanding in the near future. They prioritize emergency jobs and ensure jobs will be done quickly and efficiently in the shortest amount of time possible, so customers can feel safe in their homes — a convenience that is more important than ever due to so many people being homebound in this pandemic. RFG Electrical has done service work for a number of property management companies and restoration companies, doing jobs such as rewiring basements, fixing outlets and light switches, installing security cameras, and more. Judge Barker comments that RFG Electrical has “Excellent customer service, they’re willing to get the job done, they are fast and efficient and also have experts on call if they are unavailable. And they’re always willing to quote for a job and explain the process, so that you know the costs and there are no surprises.” RFG Plumbing and RFG Electrical were the 2019 Biz X Award winners for “Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year” and one of the owners, Ryan Giles, is also a “2020 Powerhouse Professional” nominee. Judge Kerluck did not vote in this category due to a conflict.

3.°“X Marks The Spot ° With This Leading ° Notary Public” (Criteria may include: qualifications, experience, fees, specialties, quick delivery of services.) The nominees are . . . ° Law Office Of Kim T. Deane, 12072 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh ° R. Craig Stevenson Law Office, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Tecumseh ° Robert Jutras Legal & Mediation Services, 251 Goyeau St., Suite 510, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Law Office Of Kim T. Deane The Law Office of Kim T. Deane (KimDeaneLawOffice.ca) has always placed a priority on the individual needs of each client, whether it relates to complex legal matters relating to family, real estate and estate law or simple notarizations. Notarial services include, notarizing documents such as affidavits, travel consent letters, insurance loss declarations and releases. “Notarial

Kim T. Deane, M.A. LL.B. can notarize documents and provide notarial certificates, which serve to authenticate original documents through her office in Tecumseh. Photo courtesy of St. Louis Studio.

certificates are also provided,” Deane mentions. “Notarial certificates would be provided for government-issued identification including birth certificates, driver’s licences, passports, and marriage certificates.” Being available to her clients is critical. “I provide prompt, efficient service, oftentimes within minutes of a client calling the office to confirm my availability for a notary,” she asserts. “No appointment is necessary, although it is recommended a client call the office to confirm my availability as I may

Congratulations to the 2020 Biz X Award winners and nominees! HERE TO HELP

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be in court.” Deane has represented clients in various aspects of family law, including divorce (whether contested or uncontested), custody and access disputes, child support, spousal support, and property division. “My practice also provides knowledgeable legal advice and representation in various residential real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, mortgages, refinancing, and drafting and reviewing agreements of purchases and sale,” she says. Deane has been practicing law since 1997 and has served the legal needs of the Town of Tecumseh and the surrounding communities in Essex County. She graduated from the University of Windsor with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Criminology and obtained her Bachelor of Laws and Master of Arts in Sociology thereafter.°She was called to the bar in 1997. Shortly after graduation, Deane served on the Township of Sandwich South Committee of Adjustments. She initially practiced law with the Levesque Law Office in Tecumseh for 12 years, until she opened her own practice in 2009. “I am happy to say that my turn-around is immediate,” Deane declares. “More often than not, I am more than pleased to provide notarial services to all walk-ins with little to no wait.°In fact, I have often been complimented on the expediency of my service and I aim to please!” Her fee is $50 per notary, although she charges a significantly reduced fee for clients who require more than one notary at each visit. “There have been more than a few instances where I have provided notarial services for clients who have attended at my office with less than two hours to serve and file documents with the court,” says Deane. “I can recall two occasions in which a client arrived with three copies of a 200 page affidavit, with 40 exhibits attached to the affidavit, all of which had to be commissioned as well.°It was a race against time. The process took nearly an hour, and the client left with a smile.” Deane is currently a member of the Essex Law Association, Law Society of Ontario, and the Fogolar Furlan Club of Windsor,

of which her father was a founding member. Judge Goulet did not vote in this category or take part in any discussions due to a bias.

4.°“Online Digital ° °Masters” (Who to hire to get you set up on the World Wide Web to sell your products or services.) The nominees are . . . ° AIM Social Media Marketing, AIMsmMarketing.com, Essex ° CB Marketing Inc., CBmarketing.solutions, Windsor ° Generator Design Of Canada Inc., GeneratorDesign.com, Windsor ° JEM Software, Jem-Software.com, Windsor ° Sebastian Agosta, SebastianAgosta.com, Windsor ° Taylor Lanoie, TaylorLanoie.com, Amherstburg ° Web Geeks, WebGeeks.com, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Web Geeks With so many working from home during the pandemic, local businesses offering assistance for becoming more virtual, are in high demand. While digital technology and online marketing seems complicated and stressful for a business owner, Web Geeks (WebGeeks.com) aims to take the mystery out of it and eliminate the stress, according to Owner Lorne Shantz. “We put our understanding and expertise to work for you,” he states. Web Geeks started more than 30 years ago when they provided a local bicycle shop with a computerized Point-Of-Sale system. Since that time, they have worked with hundreds of organizations across Canada, the USA and the Caribbean, in virtually every business sector, to implement

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“Curbside” is a service offered by Web Geeks, designed for restaurants or shops to start selling their products online with a pick-up option at their location. This enables business owners to quickly adapt to COVID-19 guidelines, increase sales and keep their customers and staff safe. Photo courtesy of Web Geeks.

technology and communication solutions. “We are a full service digital marketing firm and our focus is strategy, website design and digital marketing,” explains Shantz. Web Geeks helps local businesses adapt and innovate in difficult times. “Back in March, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, we started to offer two services — Virtual Office and Curbside,” he explains. “Virtual Office is software from Microsoft 365, the Microsoft Teams. We always used it internally for meetings and project management, so why not help our local businesses to adapt quickly and effectively to having their staff working from home?” Web Geeks offers setup, training and support for any business. Shantz indicates there are many benefits of Virtual Office, including: improved workflow, increased productivity, reduced workflow inefficiencies, collaboration, organization, and a customized option to do tasks such as creating custom tabs for outside apps for greater efficiency. “Curbside is what we call our specialized restaurants and local grocery e-commerce websites,” Shantz says. “Designed to be quick and easy, any restaurant or store could start selling their products online with a curbside pick-up. This way these kinds of businesses could quickly adapt to the new COVID-19 rules and not lose business over the lockdown.”

Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge is one such restaurant that hired Web Geeks to help sustain sales through the pandemic through curbside website service. “During the months that restaurants were not allowed to have people indoors or outdoors, we developed the Mezzo.Curbside.Services website to accommodate the needs of the restaurant,” points out Shantz. “In only two weeks the website was live and also provided support for the ordering system. It was a big team effort from our staff and from the customer to accomplish it.” Besides these two specific services, they also provide online consulting meetings for any business that needs to re-adapt and innovate.°For Judge Kerluck, Web Geeks ticked all the boxes for his important decision on the final winner. “They do it all. And in my opinion, they have the best-looking web page of all nominees . . . which is kind of the point!” Judge Fox agrees stating, “Their own°website is clean, professional looking and user friendly, which only means their clients also receive a superior design. This full service digital marketing firm has plenty of experience to offer, since it has been open for 30 years with 10 employees that not only helped them flourish during the pandemic, but their clients as well.”° Judges DeMarco and Renaud abstained from voting due to conflicts.

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.) *Retail shops and restaurants are not included as they have their own categories. The nominees are . . . ° Alpha Gymnastics Academy, 1565 Lauzon Rd., Unit 5, Windsor ° Ambassador Building Maintenance Limited, 628 Monmouth Rd., Windsor ° Border City Living, Windsor BorderCityLiving.com ° Evermore Princess Parties, Windsor Facebook.com/evermoreparties, ° Fast Lane Auto Repair, 61 Main St. West, Kingsville ° Float Lakeshore and Float LaSalle, 1303 County Rd. 22, Unit 175, Lakeshore, and 1765 Sprucewood Ave, LaSalle ° Ground Culture, Maidstone GroundCulture.ca ° Katie’s Top To Bottom Cleaning Services, Windsor, Facebook.com/katies toptobottomcleaningservices

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° Laval Tool, 4965 Concession Rd. 8, Tecumseh ° Macro Foods Inc., 1389 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor ° Massage Therapy Treatment Centre, 3200 Deziel Drive, Suite 212, Windsor ° Occasions Of Elegance, 1826 Ellrose Ave., Windsor ° Parkway Massage Therapy, 2825 Lauzon Parkway, Unit 207, Windsor ° The Hood Guys Industrial Maintenance, Belle River, Facebook.com/thehoodguys ° Watermark Design & Build, 3900 Walker Rd., Windsor ° WaveDirect, Leamington WaveDirect.net

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Macro Foods Inc. As a prepared meal service business, featuring fresh, healthy, chef-curated meals for pick-up, delivery, and shipping all across Ontario, Macro Foods Inc. (MacroFoods.ca) is just the type of convenient and unique business many are turning to in order to make life a bit easier during this pandemic. Macro Foods Inc. Owners Sara Ducharme and Omar Abou-Said own the commissary kitchen/outlets in the immediate area and the Waterloo location, whereas Chris James owns Macro Foods Group (Chatham,

Macro Foods Chef Rob Bertozzi prepares everything in house with the freshest possible ingredients in meals such as: Shepherd’s Pie, Chicken Shish Tawook, Vegetarian Manicotti, Keto Peppercorn Steak, Turkey Meatballs, Cajun Shrimp, Lemon Dill Salmon and more. Photo courtesy of DarkRoast.

London and Mississauga) with Matthew Athans (London). No matter where the location is, each owner notes every meal is prepared in-house with the freshest possible ingredients. Customers are also given the option of customizing their meals to ensure they are getting exactly what they would like. “Our target market is very broad, as we apply to many categories such as fitness, health enthusiasts, insurance and hospital contracts, elderly, busy working individuals and those looking to eat healthier in general,” say the owners. During the stay-at-home restrictions for COVID-19, many have said they put on extra weight. That’s why Macro Foods can come to the rescue! “Whether your goals are to slim down, bulk up, or just maintain, their meals are packed with all the necessary macro and micro-nutrients to help you out,” Judge Fox states. “They always love to change up the menu too with new combinations and flavours, including weekly feature dishes.” In fact Macro Foods was the 2018 Biz X Award winner for “Already Ready Meals Fit For A King.” Starting up in November 2015, Macro Foods now has 30 to 40 employees and has

expanded from a delivery-only service to Ontario-wide shipping and a new company to offer seven retail locations (Windsor, LaSalle, Tecumseh, Chatham, London; and coming early next year, Mississauga and Waterloo). The owners follow the business notion that the customer is always right. “We replace any meal a customer is unsatisfied with,” they declare, adding they recently had a customer who said they couldn’t finish a meal because it was too spicy, so they completely replaced it with a new meal. “And we also re-ship delayed packages at our cost, even if our couriers fail to deliver packages on time.” They all feel very blessed that their stores have always been take-out locations without seating, so they were able to remain open throughout the pandemic shutdowns. And since their meals are single-serve they were able to push to take over a lot of catering business and even secured contracts with the new COVID-19 field hospital at the St. Clair College SportsPlex to provide meals for their staff. Even though the pandemic persists, Macro Foods continues to try and find ways to give back to the community. The owners

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state: “We donated 400 meals to both Met Campus and Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, we donate weekly to the Ronald McDonald House, we donated another 200 meals to Assisted Living, 100 meals to Richmond Terrace in Amherstburg, many other small donations to local long-term care homes; meals to LaSalle firefighters, Windsor Police, Windsor firefighters, Essex-Windsor EMS, Fantastic Fathers, the TD Bank on Dougall Avenue, and Street Help. We always try to get involved in charity events such as ‘A Girls Night Out In Handbag Heaven’ (Do Good Divas), Charity Chix fundraisers, In Honour Of The Ones We Love and many more.” Their business plan includes getting licenced to be able to ship their product Canada-wide. They are also in the middle of moving to an 8,000 square-foot production facility where they would like to build their own community garden, as well as implement training programs for the unemployed.

6.° “The Smart Money ° Is On These ° Accountants” (An accounting firm that helps a business grow in the pandemic, handles the books/tax returns and gives good financial advice) The nominees are . . . ° Capital Assist Valuation Inc., 2558 Dougall Ave., Suite 100, Windsor ° CVG Tax Solutions, 1500 Ouellette Ave., Suite 202, Windsor ° Fredrick & Associates Accounting And Tax Professionals, 911 Bridge Ave., Windsor ° MJB Bookkeeping, 5630 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor ° Oldridge Accounting Professional Corporation, 1130 Gabrieau St., LaSalle ° Querin Tax Services, 237 Lauzon Rd., Windsor

° SRT Accounting Inc., Accountants20.com, Windsor ° Walter V. Francic Professional Corporation, 7150 Hawthorne Drive, Unit 105, Windsor

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Capital Assist Valuation Inc. For an accounting firm that will help you grow during the pandemic, handles your books and tax returns and gives good advice in all stages of your business, Capital Assist Valuation Inc., owned by Federica Nazzani is a vital asset for many local companies. The independent business advisory practice assists clients in business valuation, litigation support, merger, acquisition and transaction advice, complex financial analysis and forecasting, business restructuring, due diligence, as well as financial forensic and strategic planning. “It is uniquely positioned as the only boutique advisory firm with this specialization and expertise, in WindsorEssex,” asserts Nazzani. In early 2019, Capital Assist Valuation further expanded its service, offering to meet the demands of its clients, which included accounting, assurance and taxation services under the corporate structure, Capital Assist Professional Corporation. The organization is comprised of experts in their field, including designated

Sabrina Nazzani (left), Partner and Federica Nazzani, Managing Partner, along with their entire team at Capital Assist Valuation Inc., are committed to delivering timely and valuable solutions that make a difference. Photo courtesy of Capital Assist Valuation.

and seasoned chartered professional accountants, chartered business valuators, certified in financial forensics and chartered financial analyst, which is unparalleled in the community, describes Nazzani. “The breadth and depth of our team enables us to meet new challenges facing companies that other accounting firms cannot provide as they lack the core skills and experience, such as family succession, business exit planning, liquidity and financing concerns, family law and damages suffered as part of a litigation to name a few,” she states. “Our expertise leads to our clients’ success, particularly in times of uncertainty and growth.” Her company has grown from one employee in 2015, to seven dynamic professionals, who each possess

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a different but complementary skill set and experience to best service their clients’ unique needs (read profiles about their team members on: CapitalAssist.ca). “As a firm, we have always embraced innovation, with a cloud-based back office environment, online financial tools and virtual data rooms, ahead of our competition,” Nazzani points out. In the time of COVID-19, many companies have had to put their°transactions, such as merger, acquisition and divestiture plans on hold as a result of the°economic uncertainty, business viability concerns and a tightening of liquidity°needs, Nazzani comments. “Additionally, with the closure of the federal and provincial courts, all°litigation has been stalled and as a result, our work in loss

quantification,° valuation for shareholder disputes, family law matters and our financial forensic°assignments, have also been put on hold as clients and their counsel assess°their legal strategies,” she notes. According to Nazzani, the pandemic has°accelerated the needs for Capital Assist Valuation’s services, as clients require assistance to navigate°the subsidy programs available from the government, renegotiate banking facilities, prepare cash flow° forecasts and restructure priorities. “Through these unsettling times, we have continued to deploy staff to serve our clients’ needs, helping to improve and plan for the future, all the while°deferring invoicing and extending longer payment terms,” she comments. As an example of exceptional customer/client service, Nazzani notes that Capital Assist assisted a client through a difficult, complex and emotional shareholder litigation. “With our support, the company has been able to look at new expansion and acquisition opportunities to recover their losses,” she adds. “We have successfully transitioned the company from a litigation client to an advisory and accounting client as we work closely with them on their recovery.” Capital Assist is a proud supporter of many local and regional charities, including as a puck and board sponsor of the “Play for the Cure” tournament in support of cancer

research,°as well as organizing a local holiday drive for unprivileged school children. Over the years, Nazzani has also given significant time and resources to various°volunteer boards and charities in the community. “Federica has the ability to drive the valuation process, market the company to a network of buyers, understand the detailed accounting and financial information of the company, provide financing recommendations, and provide valuable commentary on the legal agreements,” comments Manoj Patil, former Director, Secretary and Treasurer at PROSTAFF Employment Solutions Inc. “I’ve worked with a number of professionals in the past who excel in one or two of the areas above, but few are able to bring value from the beginning to end of a process like Federica is able to.”

7.°“Company ° That Moves ° ° Mountains 4 U” (Whether it is down the street or across the country, the moving company to trust with reasonable rates, insurance, positive reviews etc. to make the move as smooth as possible.)

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The nominees are . . . ° 2 Guys 1 Truck, Windsor Facebook.com/2guys1truck2015 ° Aleks Moving Inc., Windsor AleksMoving.ca ° Glen’s Moving Ltd., 4080 North Service Rd. East, Windsor ° The Storage Box, 4205 County Rd. 42, RR1, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Glen’s Moving Ltd. Although the world seems to be at a standstill in some ways, due to the pandemic, the healthcare profession and all its moving parts are busier than ever. Glen’s Moving Ltd. (GlensMoving.ca) is an essential service during this uncertain time, assisting in its own way in the fight against COVID-19. “We moved machines and beds for our hospitals while we were wearing PPE and properly sanitized,” explains Owner Glen Cook. And across Windsor Essex, the real estate industry has continued to boom, meaning people are still on the move. “We have been around for 44 years and have the experience and knowledge our customers need for a stress-free move, whether it be a partial move, local or long distance,” Cook describes. Glen’s Moving Ltd. offers moving solutions for home and business

owners locally and throughout Ontario. “So, whether you’re moving the family across the province or your business across the city, our team will help you complete the transfer smoothly,” he asserts. “After all, we’ve been making smooth moves since 1976!” They take pride in the fact that they are a Windsorbased moving company — so much so that founder Cook was appointed to The Order of Ontario and awarded “The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal” in 2013 for his contributions to the local and national community, which he says was a huge honour. Cook is a member of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Association of Movers (Certified Mover). His business offers complete movein service, packing services and more. “We move pianos, specialties, safes . . . there’s nothing we really cannot do,” promises Cook, adding that piano moves are flat-rated and discounted if the piano is included within the move. And last year he hired a crane to move a buffet! The fee structure is an hourly rate for household moving within Windsor. Tecumseh and LaSalle are also on an hourly rate, which includes the fuel. Amherstburg and Leamington have a fuel charge. Glen’s Moving Ltd. is bonded and offers liability insurance, comprehensive replacement value protection and property damage. Customer service is always top of mind and

When it comes time to wave goodbye to the past, Glen Cook, Owner of Glen’s Moving Ltd. is there to ensure it’s a smooth move on the road to your new home. Photo by Rod Denis.

Cook recalls a recent example of this when they were hired to help move a Windsor firefighter of 34 years. “We were nearly done filling the truck when he received a call that he couldn’t move into his new home due to some unforeseen problem,” explains Cook. “Instead of emptying the truck and leaving his belongs on the side of the road, I kept the truck full and kept it for him until the problem was solved. I could have used my truck to move others, but decided to put this client first instead.” They also sell packing materials, and once a customer books with them, Cook says he takes a lot of time to help them as he

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is a certified moving consultant. “I was on the board for the Ontario Movers Association for many years, which is°a division of the Ontario Trucking Association,” he notes. They do short-notice moves “all the time,” according to Cook, and always do their best to accommodate every customer. “We would never want anyone to be left out in the street,” Cook comments. Judge Goulet believes “In town, out of town, uptown or downtown, Glen’s Moving will take you and your possessions safely anywhere you want to be. They are reliable and run a professional, classy service with all the right moves!”

8. °“ 2020 Powerhouse °Professional” (A local business owner or top manager who has what it takes to keep the company or organization they own or work for profitable in today’s tough times.) The nominees are . . . ° Arms Bumanlag, Erie Shores Healthcare, 194 Talbot St. West, Leamington ° Ben Snow, Men In Kilts, Facebook.com/meninkiltswindsor, Windsor ° Bethany Russell, Brava Academy Of Music And The Performing Arts, 2591 Howard Ave. North, Unit 1, Windsor ° Breannah Deschaine, Evermore Princess Parties, Facebook.com/evermoreparties, Windsor ° Bridget Fauteux, Fit Nutrition Canada, FitNutritionCanada.com, Windsor ° Cheryl Sprague, Delta Chi Early Childhood Centres, 1385 Ouellette Ave., Windsor ° Dr. Nadia Al-Aasm, Cabana Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, 300 Cabana Rd. East, Suite #3, Windsor ° Eryn Azzopardi, Beekeeper Food Wraps, BeekeeperFoodWraps.com, Windsor ° Faith Monaco, Impact Health And Fitness Centre, 88 Talbot St. East, Leamington ° Gary Gainham, Clera Windows & Doors, 981 County Rd. 50, Harrow ° Hassan Farhat, AlphaKOR Group Inc., 7800 Twin Oaks Drive West, Windsor ° Janice Kaffer, Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, 1453 Prince Rd., Windsor ° Jessica Ryan, Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop, 1471 Ottawa St., Windsor ° Joseph Jones, Mathnasium Of Tecumseh, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit #20A, Tecumseh

PEOPLE

brought to you by

StClairAlumni.com ° Katherine Possamai, Parkway Massage Therapy, 2825 Lauzon Parkway, Unit 207, Windsor ° Kelly Neuber and David Robinson, Globally Local Tecumseh, 13458 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh ° Landan Dallyn, Caulk And Seal, 2858 Front Rd., LaSalle ° Lindsay Lovecky, Libro Credit Union, 1501 Howard Ave., Unit 106, Windsor, and charities like Do Good Divas Community Group Inc. ° Loreta Gojci, Michigan Diner, 7435 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Marcel Parent, Pinnacle Plus Realty, 5444 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Mary Christine Smith, Windsor Tea Emporium, 1295 Ottawa St., Windsor ° Michael DeLuca, DeLuca Films, Deluca.film, Windsor ° Michael Maio, Michael Anthony’s Hair & Tanning Salon, 139 Tecumseh Rd. West, Windsor ° Michael O’Kane, O’Kane Financial Group, 3215 Jefferson Blvd., Suite 301, Windsor

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° Michelle Jones-Rousseau, Estate Sellers, Facebook.com/estatesellers.ca, LaSalle ° Nour Hachem-Fawaz, Build A Dream To Empower Women, 6465 Hawthorne Drive, Windsor ° Radu Bogdanel, Fulger Transport Inc., 4016 County Rd. 23, Essex ° Robin Sheikh, Paglione Estate Winery, 724 County Rd. 50 East, Harrow ° Ryan Giles, RFG Plumbing and RFG Electrical, 13007 Hyland Side Rd., Essex ° Sharon Mack, Sharon Mack Realty, 2985 Dougall Ave., Windsor ° Shaun Ouellette, Sage Therapeutic Consulting, 1983 Westminster Blvd., Windsor ° Shawna Godin, Talbot Massage Therapy, 113 Talbot St. South, Unit 1, Essex ° Tony And Dani Smith, The Garage Gym Strength And Conditioning, 227 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg ° Vicki Bartel, Vicki Bartel Photography, VickiBartel.com, Harrow ° Vince Moceri, Windsor Disposal Services (GFL), 2700 Deziel Drive, Windsor ° Yassir Kako, CK Mechanical, 3846 Peter St., Windsor

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Lindsay Lovecky As an employee of Libro Credit Union (Libro.ca) working as a Relationship Manager/Coach since 2014, Lindsay Lovecky applies aspects of her job in all that she does. “Libro strives to inspire meaningful change in communities,” explains Lovecky. “We have a purpose far beyond profit. Being purpose-driven is not a program we run — it is an attitude we take in everything we do.” She mentions that Libro helps people achieve their goals, supporting businesses to create a thriving local economy and contributing to strong and prosperous communities. “This is why Libro exists,” she asserts. “We are a financial institution that uses all our resources to grow prosperity.”

They focus on issues related to employment, financial resilience, local food accessibility and housing. “We’ve been forming key partnerships that are helping to create jobs, support self-employment and entrepreneurship, and build money smarts,” Lovecky proudly describes. “We call it the Libro Cluster and it is doing great things.” And Lovecky’s enthusiasm for change and improving the lives of others is always at play in her personal life through her various charity work. She is currently the Vice-President of the Do Good Divas, an organization she began volunteering with more than a decade ago, in 2009 (DoGoodDivas.com). “The Do Good Divas Community Group Inc. is a provincially regulated charity organization of caring individuals dedicated to supporting local health care projects through a unique annual fundraiser known as ‘A Girls Night Out In Handbag Heaven’. This year, due to the current circumstances, we adjusted the event to be held online, called ‘Handbags at Home,’” explains Lovecky. The Do Good Divas have donated more than $620,000 to fund projects and programs for the improvement of health-related services in the community, since their first fundraiser in 2007. Lovecky is also the current Treasurer of Habitat for Humanity

At just 34 years old, Lindsay Lovecky is a force to be reckoned with. She’s employed by Libro Credit Union and a volunteer for Do Good Divas Community Group Inc. and Habitat for Humanity, plus she’s a member of the United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County Emerging Philanthropists group — need we say more! Photo courtesy of Eryn Shea Photography.

Windsor-Essex (visit: HabitatWindsor.org), which is founded on the belief that decent, affordable housing is a basic human right. “Our mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building

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affordable housing and promoting home ownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty,” she expresses. “Our values incorporate housing for all, human dignity, partnership, faith in action and diversity and inclusiveness.” Since a young child she began volunteering for Habitat and became a board member in 2018. As a member of United Way/Centraide WindsorEssex County Emerging Philanthropists (WeAreUnited.com) group, since it began in 2015, Lovecky is proud to be a part of this unique opportunity for individuals in their 20s and 30s to create positive change in their community. “This diverse group of emerging leaders seeks to fully understand the issues that confront people in our region, to actively connect with the community, to learn about leadership and professional development, and to influence change through meaningful volunteering and giving opportunities,” she declares. Judge Barker says Lovecky’s bio is impressive and what struck him was how much she is doing for the community and going above and beyond to do “more than just her job description.” Judge DeMarco agrees, stating: “She gives back to the community in so many ways, and when she speaks, people listen. She definitely knows her stuff.”

9.° “Artist Of The Year” (Singer, painter, musician, sculptor, band, actor for example) *No authors or photographers could participate. The nominees are . . . ° Autumn Kings, Band, (Jake Diab, Tibor Bognar, Joseph Coccimiglio, Troy Dawdy), AutumnKings.com, Windsor ° Crissi Cochrane, Singer and Songwriter, CrissiCochrane.com, Windsor ° Isabel Grondin, Izzy Gee Anime Art, Digital Artist and Animator, Instagram.com/izzys.anime.art, Windsor ° Mark C. Williams, Artist and Sculptor, Facebook.com/mark-williams-sculpturegallery-104086458102749, Tecumseh ° Matthew Luppino, Luppo Studios Productions Inc., Filmmaker and Rapper, LuppoStudios.weebly.com, Essex ° Nick Hedden, Singer, NickHeddenMusic.com, Windsor ° Paula McNorton, Paula’s Life Casting Studio, Life Caster and Lamp Worker, Facebook.com/paulas-life-castingstudio-225121507879686, Tecumseh ° Tara Watts, Songwriter, Singer, Guitarist, and Musician, Facebook.com/tara.watts.100, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Autumn Kings With millions of online streams and views worldwide, Autumn Kings (see: AutumnKings.com) always keep one thing top of mind through their music: “Put Windsor on the map.” Jake Diab, founder of the band and guitarist and vocalist, along with band mates Tibor Bognar, Joseph Coccimiglio and Troy Dawdy, believe that the band, The Tea Party, paved the way for them. But their own goal is to take that success to a new level when it comes to showing the world what the YQG community is and stands for, “Because they gave us everything,” they express. All born and raised in Windsor, the band mates are proud to say that every song they’ve ever written, recorded, and released, has been done in Windsor. “Our music transcends the artificial genre boundaries — we fuse rock, pop, hip/hop, and EDM together to produce a fresh sound,” they describe. “Music on the radio these days is catchy, but so boringly soft. We take the best of catchy songs and give it a much-needed edge.” And while most artists say “Yeah, it’d be nice” when it comes to playing in big venues and arenas,

Meet the Autumn Kings from left: Troy Dawdy (Drums), Tibor Bognar (Bass), Joseph Coccimiglio (Lead Vocals) and Jake Diab (Vocals/Guitar). Photo courtesy of Jesse Hebert.

the band feels their Windsor fans have evoked so much confidence in them to believe, “We will play arenas!” The road to stardom has already begun as their songs are played in regular rotation on local stations such as 89X, 96.7, and 93.9 The River. “No label, no agent, no manager, no scandal, just community,” they firmly declare. The band has won the “89X Battle of the Bands” competition beating out 80 bands from Ontario and Michigan to take the crown. Since the band originated in 2015, they have participated in numerous local events to support many charitable causes, including: Transition To Betterness (T2B), Windsor Soup, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, HerCampus (University of Windsor), Music For Life, the Windsor Regional Hospital Pediatric Oncology Fund, Music Express and “Art in the Park”. During the pandemic, many have turned to music as a way of coping and for simple enjoyment. The Autumn Kings have been there to answer this call in several unique ways. “We did popup shows during the main shutdowns this year to spread joy during the most stressful period of our lifetime,” describes Diab. “We also visited a super-fan named Jessica in Windsor, as well as an 89-year-old fan named Maggie, on Mother’s Day.” Judge Goulet loves their genre of music and appreciates how they really care about giving back to the community. “Autumn Kings’ pop-up sets around the region really brought spirits up during the peak time of the pandemic,” comments Judge Goulet. “As well, they’ve proven they are rising stars, internationally, with their song°‘Devil in Disguise,’ played B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

regularly by the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena during the games as one of the goal songs!” The band mates state their secret to success is unconditional community support, playing music 12 to 14 hours a day, and loving every minute of it, along with a couple of other key things that are rare in their industry. “We don’t do drugs and hardly drink — we run it like a sports team — which is essentially unheard of in the music business,” the band declares. And their vow for the future: “We have tens of thousands of fans worldwide already, and we’ve barely scratched the surface.”

Autumn Kings band members Joseph Coccimiglio (left) and Jake Diab are pictured during a spring pop-up performance in Windsor for super-fan, Jessica Moser (check out the intrigued neighbour in the background!). To spread positivity doing what they do best, the band has been surprising special fans at area locations by playing a few songs, live streaming it to world and taking a few pictures while keeping physical distancing measures intact — all for the sole objective of sharing much needed entertainment relief during these times of distress and uncertainty. Photo courtesy of the Autumn Kings.

10. °“ Mortgage Rep Looking Out For ° Your Best Interest” An individual, employed by a bank, credit union, or private mortgage agency, who works hard to get you the best rate, terms and conditions, possible.) The nominees are . . . ° Ashley Meloche, Motor City Community Credit Union, 6701 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Darrin Roseborsky, OMAC Mortgages, 420 Kildare Rd., Unit 102, Windsor ° George Napier, Libro Credit Union, 463 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg ° Joe Bondy, RBC Royal Bank Of Canada, 3854 Dougall Ave., Windsor ° Kevin Murray, Mortgage Architects, 5444 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Rasha Ingratta, Mortgage Intelligence, 3385 Dougall Ave., Unit 200, Windsor ° Susan Willcock, RBC Royal Bank Of Canada, 2669 Howard Ave., Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . Rasha Ingratta, Mortgage Intelligence

Rasha Ingratta, an independent Mortgage Agent with Mortgage Intelligence, came up against a huge challenge when the pandemic hit. Recovering from surgery at the same time, she adopted an “I will survive” attitude, to not only look after herself, but also her customers. As a result, every single family or individual was advised properly and were happy at the end of the day. Photo courtesy°of Rasha Ingratta.

For more than 20 years, Rasha Ingratta has been a Mortgage Broker, specializing in Windsor Essex and surrounding areas. As an independent Mortgage Agent at Mortgage Intelligence (ShopMortgages.ca), Ingratta says they pride themselves on

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a high level of mortgage knowledge, professionalism and experience, which translates into providing customers with mortgages that are competitively priced and have features that best meet their unique needs. “We try to develop a longterm relationship with each client, whatever path our clients choose,” states Ingratta. They have customized a system that allows them to digitally stay in touch with clients, lenders, referral and business partners, “Which gives us the confidence to stay on top of all that is needed to service a mortgage from origination to paying out the mortgage,” notes Ingratta. For most Canadians, buying a home and acquiring a mortgage for purchase or refinance is the single largest financial transaction they will ever be faced with, so Ingratta knows it is important that they prepare them before they start the search and guide them along throughout the process. “It is our job to provide strategies to optimize their hardearned money throughout their lives as mortgage holders,” she comments. Back in March when COVID-19 restrictions began in Windsor Essex, layoffs occurred, followed by the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) coming out. Ingratta mentions that at this point, they immediately needed to learn the guidelines, rules and benefits

Congratulations to all Biz X Award recipients and nominees!

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

of all lenders, how they dealt with CERB, layoffs and deferring mortgage payments. “Every lender had their own landscape and design on how they were going to defer payments and such,” she explains. “Every client had a story or situation. We needed to learn quickly how to deal with it, and I am very happy with the outcome.” There were many tears, and Ingratta says it made her heart hurt hearing the challenges so many were facing, but she made sure that every single family or individual was advised properly and taken care of accordingly, and that they were happy at the end of the day. “We did everything digitally, over the phone and Zoom, and if we needed to meet with clients physically, we followed all precautions,” she says. “We were able to get through it and we are still working through it. We survived and Windsor is a strong community.” As an independent Mortgage Agent with Mortgage Intelligence (a national mortgage brokerage), she works with more than 50 lenders and approvals are usually given within four hours. After being a solo act for the first 15 years, she has successfully built her team, “Rasha Ingratta & Mortgage Associates,” to now include seven (four agents including herself, an assistant, bookkeeper and social media/marketing person). They specialize in purchases, first-time home buyers, government grants and incentives, refinances, renewals and transfers from lender to lender, and difficult and unique situations. Ingratta’s favourite is building wealth through real estate. “When clients call into the office and they are real estate investors, the call gets forwarded to me,” she states, and believes that while many clients are willing to just sign the paperwork without reading anything, her team takes the time to listen and advise accordingly. “We never assume what the client wants,” she stresses. “We want to always make sure that what we are providing matches what the client needs, even if it means we don’t get the business.” Client Nick F. explains that he was having a hard time finding a mortgage since his “credit was in the gutter” and he racked up a lot of debt. “I couldn’t find a mortgage with any of the big banks,” Nick recalls, adding that he even contemplated declaring bankruptcy. “Someone told me to talk to Rasha first, that she’s great at dealing with tricky mortgages. She was able to find me a mortgage that wasn’t at an unbelievable interest rate with a B lender. Together we made a plan for getting out of debt and building my credit, and one year later my credit score is doing great and I just signed my second mortgage with Rasha at an amazing rate. She made this process simple and stress free. I couldn’t have done it without her!”

11.°“The Most Honest Auto Salesperson” (A new/used car salesperson you can trust who offers a fair price for your vehicle and won’t sell you a “lemon”!) The nominees are . . . ° Barb Grondin, Joe Meloche Ford Sales, 55 Sandwich St. North, Amherstburg ° Daniel Pistagnesi, Volkswagen Of Windsor, 9700 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Mark Renaud, Performance Ford, 1150 Provincial Rd. East, Windsor ° Mickey Cleroux, AutoMAXX, 4200 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Daniel Pistagnesi, Volkswagen Of Windsor For Daniel Pistagnesi, honesty is the best policy when it comes to selling cars. “I treat customers like family members because I want to earn their business and referrals for years to come,” emphasizes Pistagnesi, who has worked at Volkswagen of Windsor (VWOfWindsor.com) for the past three years. “My customers°are provided with a°first-class purchasing°experience that leaves them happy and smiling.” He ensures all lines of communication are open, from°the moment he meets customers until well after they have made their purchase. “I accomplish this through phone calls, emails and birthday wishes,” he notes. People are definitely more money conscious during this pandemic, but Pistagnesi says there’s always a deal to be made. “At Volkswagen of Windsor, we have excellent loyalty incentives, zero percent interest rates on lots of vehicles, dealer cash, hero’s discount, graduate programs and

more,” he explains. According to Pistagnesi, Volkswagen has an excellent certified pre-owned department with low rates, as well as in-house financing with attractive interest rates. He points out that Volkswagen also offers payment deferrals to help alleviate any apprehensiveness during the pandemic. “It’s inspiring to see a company looking out for its customers,” he comments. “They are truly valued.”°Pistagnesi loves what he does and since he has a good time doing it, he feels his customers pick up on that vibe. “I’m an honest person by nature and in the car sales business, if a client doesn’t trust you, then they will not want to do business with you or refer anyone to you,” he says. “People deserve to have a fun experience and trust the salesperson when purchasing a vehicle.” Pistagnesi goes the extra mile by shopping his customers’ trade-in across all of Ontario to guarantee the highest trade value and provide all customers with a Carfax and available service records, owners’ manual, brochures and any additional info he can provide. He indicates he likes to become his customers’ “car guy” and always keeps the communication open with them. “I’m there when my customers have questions, I see them when they are in for service and when they refer their friends and family, I’m the guy they see,” he states proudly. For nominator Stacy D., Pistagnesi made her feel very comfortable throughout her car-buying experience. “I immediately felt certain I was doing the right thing with purchasing my first vehicle and the car of my dreams, with him,” she expresses. “He is not pushy and takes the time to explain everything you need to know on the car and financing.”

12. “° The Caring ° Pharmacist °Constantly °Prescribed” (Dealing with viruses is now a constant concern for us all. Factors include; a Pharmacist who is interested in your health, makes recommendations and offers other services such as immunizations, delivery service etc.)

Daniel Pistagnesi, Sales Consultant, Volkswagen of Windsor, gets great satisfaction in watching those enter the dealership showroom and fall in love with the build and safety of their cars. The vehicles are also two thumbs up for him in appearance and with their fun names. Photo courtesy of Volkswagen of Windsor.°

The nominees are . . . ° Aaron Nixon, Main Street Pharmacy And Wellness Centre, 19 Main St. West, Kingsville ° Alex Zakaria, Rob’s Whole Health Pharmacy, 1765 Sprucewood Ave., Unit 250, LaSalle ° Brianne Livingston, Banwell Pharmacy Compounding And Medical Centre, 11400 Tecumseh Rd. East, Unit 3, Windsor ° Edward Zawol, Grand Marais Pharmacy, 2930 Dominion Blvd., Windsor B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

° Rob Modestino, Rob’s Whole Health Pharmacy, 1765 Sprucewood Ave., Unit 250, LaSalle ° Sean Taylor, Parent Avenue Pharmacy, 860 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Brianne Livingston, Banwell Pharmacy Compounding And Medical Centre COVID-19 has not been easy for anyone, and Brianne Livingston says it has forced her and other pharmacists to help in ways she thought they never would. “We faced many challenges as our patients were unable to see their family doctors, travel, work, pick up food, medications and other necessities,” comments Livingston. “I can remember a young mother with a son diagnosed with autism who ran out of feverreducing medication options as he refused to take anything available over the counter and was very sensitive to certain additives and dyes. As clinics were closed and she was fearful to bring him into the ER due to the pandemic, we offered to compound an over-the-counter suppository that was additive and dye free.” Livingston says this process can take some time, but she and the staff at Banwell Pharmacy Compounding and Medical Centre, which opened in March 2018, stayed late so they could finish and

COVID-19 has been a huge ordeal for everyone, and Brianne Livingston of the Banwell Pharmacy Compounding and Medical Centre believes we’ve all grown through this exceptional transition. As a Pharmacist she faced many setbacks as their patients were unable to see their family doctors, travel, work, pick up food, medications and other necessities, but Livingston rose to the challenge to make sure everyone received all the prescriptions they required. Photo courtesy of Banwell Pharmacy.

deliver the product to the family. “Not that this is anything extra at all, because I believe each patient we come in contact with should

get our full attention,” notes Livingston. “If we can help to solve a medication related problem and improve our patients’ quality of life in whatever big or small way, it is our duty and honour as a Pharmacist.” Livingston says Banwell Compounding Pharmacy is unique in that they are able to provide compounding services (more at: BanwellPharmacy.com). “Compounding our medications in-house allows us to tailor medications to our patients’ individual and specific needs,” she explains. “Sometimes this means making a pet-friendly version of a medication to help heal our special animal friends. Other times it means making life-saving medications into dosage forms specific to a patient’s needs, allowing them the opportunity to take medications that would be otherwise impossible.” She not only believes in treating or solving medication related issues, she believes in a total health experience centred on a preventative approach. In their facility, they offer many other services that they can combine with a traditional pharmacy experience to help heal and prevent health related issues for patients. “I am constantly striving for excellence and keeping abreast of new information helping me to gain valuable knowledge allowing me to help every patient I can,” Livingston asserts. Her employer is “your friendly neighbourhood pharmacy” offering all the

Congratulations

to the nominees and winners of the RD

BIZ X 23 ANNUAL AWARDS! In the face of adversity, you have more than triumphed!

Chris

LEWIS MP

519-776-4700 CHRIS.LEWIS@PARL.GC.CA CHRISLEWISMP.CA

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

typical pharmacy services, including: medication reviews, free delivery, reduced co-pays for seniors, access to many natural products, immunizations, patient counselling, quick and easy prescription transfers and refills, and methadone services. They are trained in immunization, methadone, compounding, smoking cessation and Livingston also has a certificate in prescribing — “a new and exciting change that is coming to legislation,” she comments. She and the staff try hard to support the community and contribute to many charity events, and recently had to postpone their own mental health and wellness event due to COVID-19, which they hope to reschedule as soon as possible. Livingston completed her undergraduate degree at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and, in 2019, also earned a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree there. She has worked as a staff Pharmacist at Banwell Pharmacy since July 2019. She is also a District Manager for a group of°independent pharmacies (Banwell Pharmacy; Twin Oaks Pharmacy, 8100 Twin Oaks Drive and Windsor Avenue Pharmacy, 1329 Windsor Avenue). Extra courses she has in her portfolio include: smoking cessation, Ontario Pharmacists Association (OPA) prescribing certificate, Serono fertility course, First Aid/CPR Level C, injection certified, Hormone Replacement Therapy course Professional Compounding Centers of America, Ontario (OPA) cardiovascular GS course, and cannabis training (OPA). She’s also training in the Board Certified Geriatric Pharmacist preparation course, as well as training to get a methadone certificate. Judge Goulet says Livingston is very knowledgeable and experienced in her field and always takes the time to explain in full detail everything about your medication. “She offers help to everyone she can who walks through their doors,” he notes. “Brianne takes pride in her job and it really shows, as every person coming out of the pharmacy has a smile on his or her face.”

° Carrie Ouellette, Carrie J. Photographer, Windsor, CarrieJ.ca ° Danielle and Brad Tremblay, Danielle Tremblay Photography, LaSalle DanielleTremblayPhotography.com ° Janet and Alan Arsenault, Chalet Studio Photography & Gardens, Amherstburg, ChaletStudio.ca ° Jen Gurniak, Jen Gurniak Photography, Windsor, JenGurniakPhotography.com ° Jessica Ruxton, Jessica Ruxton Photography, Windsor, Instagram.com/jessicaruxtonphotography ° Kate Mercer, Kate Mercer Photography, Windsor, KMercerPhotography.com ° Lauren Hedges, Lauren Hedges Photography, Windsor, LaurenHedges.com ° Nicole Vallance, Nicole Vallance Photography, LaSalle, NicoleVallancePhotography.com ° Stephanie McIntosh, YW Photos by Stephanie, Windsor, YWphotos.com ° Trevor Booth, Trevor Booth Photography, Windsor, TrevorBoothPhotography.ca

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Trevor Booth, Trevor Booth Photography Shooting with a traditionalist style and an artistic flare, Trevor Booth (TrevorBoothPhotography.ca) says his images are timeless. “What I took 14 years ago might look like it was taken last year and vice versa,” says Booth, who has been a photographer for more than 20 years. Booth’s experience is vast, having shot more than 300 weddings. With a passion for photography since high school, he

13.°“The #1 Wedding ° ° Photographer ° ° Always In Focus” (Style, personality, value for money and experience were considered.) The nominees are . . . ° Anthony Sheardown, Anthony Sheardown Photography, Windsor, AnthonySheardownPhotography.com

Photographer Trevor Booth loves being a part of a bride and groom’s happiest day of their lives, whether he is hired to take photos in a local church, event facility, or winery, or even on a dream beach at a tropical destination.

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attended Fanshawe College for three years to pursue a career behind the lens. “College taught me the technical side, but it was my seven years working abroad with Princess Cruises that taught me photography is more than just a camera,” Booth recalls. He believes his time working as a cruise ship photographer helped to develop his skills in managing and understanding people in environments like weddings or parties. It showed him how to anticipate what is coming up and to always be ready for the next thing happening. Growing roots in southern Ontario, Booth jumped head first into his own studio in early 2004 and he hasn’t looked back since, with clients such as the University of Windsor, Giant Tiger, BASF, Canadian Club, Timberland Homes, Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd., and many more. Booth believes his rates are standard — starting in the $3,000 range for an entire wedding day. Some packages include engagement shoots, canvases and albums. He says every client receives 500 fully edited images, typically within three weeks. “What may set me apart is the very next day my clients receive a teaser album on their phone of the best 50 images that I think tell the best story of their day,” he states and stresses he absolutely loves his job. “How could I not! Especially being a part of one of my bride and groom’s happiest days of their lives. That alone makes what

Pictured is one of Trevor Booth’s favourite photos of his work — two newlyweds at the Barcelo Maya Grand Resort in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico. Photos courtesy of Trevor Booth (including photo on page 37).

I do even more enjoyable!” And he’s willing to shoot anywhere, whether in a favourite local church or on a dream beach in Mexico. “When I photograph a couple’s wedding, I’m the easiest going, relaxed photographer there is,” Booth feels. “First and foremost, I want the bride and groom, to be relaxed and having fun. The more they are, the better the photos.” For nominator Brent G., “Trevor’s attention to detail, creative posing and unique locations makes his images stand out from the competition.” Since love makes the world go round, couples are still getting hitched and need to capture those special moments, no matter what is going on in life. Through the pandemic, Booth informs us that people

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are still getting photos taken, just differently. “Weddings are smaller and I had the majority postpone until next year,” he reports, but COVID-19 didn’t really change how he shoots photos. “I can keep far enough away and still make the images work for my clients.” As well since most of the shoots are outside, it’s easy to maintain proper social distancing and not have to wear masks. Whereas he normally stays away from traditional posing, he will always have formal shots like ones with the wedding couple’s parents. “What I do takes a lot more talent, a little more skill, a little more eye to get the shot without disrupting the spontaneity and candidness of my clients,” he explains. And that sums up the whole picture!

14.°“The Best Little ° ° Retail Shop ° Of 2020”

RETAIL

(Open to all retailers with good prices, fantastic customer service and selection.) *No online only businesses could participate nor could any nominee in categories #15 to #19. The nominees are . . . ° Beatnik Art Supplies, 224 Erie St. West, Windsor ° Bvogue Boutique, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Windsor ° Cheung’s Trading Company Ltd, Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine, 2030 Wyandotte St. West, Windsor ° Craft Supply Canada, 3750 Walker Rd., Unit 2B, Windsor ° DeMarco’s Fine Foods, 1349 Grand Marais Rd. West, Unit 108, Windsor ° Girard & Co. Flowers & Gifts, 1371 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor ° Kings Bake Shop, 13 Main St. East, Kingsville ° La Belle Fromage, 519 Notre Dame St., Belle River ° Maison Mary Anne, 13139 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh ° Priscilla’s Presents, 1195 Iler Rd., Harrow ° Swinging Soaps, 2001 Provincial Rd., Unit C, Windsor ° Tantalize Tanning Lounge, 2635 Howard Ave., Windsor ° The Cheese Bar, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Rear Unit 29 & 30, Tecumseh ° The Depot, 44 Sinasac St. West, Harrow ° Uptown Meats & Deli, 175 King St. West, Unit 1, Harrow ° Urban Art Market, 548 Chilver Rd., Windsor ° Whiskeyjack Boutique, 55 Maiden Lane West, Windsor

brought to you by

TecumsehMall.com And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . The Cheese Bar The Cheese Bar’s sole purpose is to retail local artisan cheese to those who are health conscious, have dietary issues, need to entertain guests or just consider themselves foodies. Since May 2015, Sarah Barrette, Owner of The Cheese Bar, has shared her passion — a cheesy one at that — with her customers. “We created a desire and love of supporting local within our community,” she comments. “A true passion of mine is sharing information with the consumer about the cheese maker, their farm and their philosophy. We eventually get to know each one of our customers. We suggest new products based on their likes and dislikes so we can offer a welcomed experience in a friendly and personalized shopping space.” Nominator Laurie R. writes: “The owner is a very smart entrepreneur, setting her business plan in motion from pop-up appearances at farmers’ markets, to her parents’ garage, to shared space, and now her own large storefront. She is well-researched in all things cheese and collaborates with other vendors to help promote local. She is professional, courteous and helpful in satisfying all my cheesy cravings!”

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Let’s give a round of applause to The Cheese Bar Owner Sarah Barrette, who not only stocks all things cheesy in her shop, but also is a big supporter of local and sells items from over 30 different small businesses. Photo courtesy of Marina Valente/The Cheese Bar.

The Cheese Bar renovated their shop in August 2019 in order to open a multi-functional space, which really sets them apart from the competition. “The renovated space serves as a retail and café area by day, a tasting and workshop space in the evening and a private event space after-hours and on weekends,” Barrette points out. “With this multifaceted space we are able to collaborate with many small businesses, offer unique events to the community and provide a very tasteful and comfortable environment for small, intimate gatherings.” During the pandemic shutdown, Barrette was able to turn her entire business into an online shop so customers had access to her inventory from the comfort of their own home. Curbside pickup, delivery, weekly pop-ups and a monthly cheese membership club, have all been added too. Prices range from $2.50 (a demi baguette) to $250 (a custom, hand sewn, natural, reversible linen apron) and products sold include cured meats, fresh breads, accompaniments and more (to see all of her available items: TheCheeseBar.ca). Since reopening the

storefront, The Cheese Bar’s nine dedicated employees stepped up to the challenges of the pandemic, serving their loyal customers just as they did pre-COVID, but with masks on and plenty of hand sanitizer! They also ship across Ontario and Quebec with nationwide shipping available. There are plans to expand the brand in the future to a few different areas, all with slightly different focuses. “The Cheese Bar operates like a tight knit community as they welcome other businesses in to sell their products, as well as their own,” says Judge Fox. “The owner is so friendly and they have such a large assortment of cheese from all over the world. It’s just amazing.”

15.°“Premiere ° PPE Place” (The business you turn to for cleaning and disinfectant products or Personal Protection Equipment like masks and gloves.) The nominees are . . . ° Division One Distributing, Facebook.com/division-onedistributing-101725364911768

° Game Gear Attire, A Division Of Dimensional Embroidery, 6909 Concession Rd. 6 North, Amherstburg ° Maxim Medical Supplies, 250 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Smartex Products Canada Limited, 1290 Crawford Ave., Windsor ° Universal Health Products, A Division Of Wintex Safety, 635 Tecumseh Rd. West, Windsor

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Smartex Products Canada Limited Since 1989, Smartex Canada, with its eight to 10 employees, prides itself on an extensive knowledge of custom decorations on various apparel, goods and promotional items. “This knowledge helps us determine what methods of apparel and promotional decorating is appropriate for any given situation, as well as provide expert feedback to ensure lasting quality and durability on all items processed within our facility,” says Wallace Lee, Owner of Smartex Canada, along with other Lee family members, Shane, Eva and Dennis. “Here at Smartex Canada, we place a very high value on the quality of our products and services and their perfect alignment with what the customer expects.” In March 2020, they repurposed some of their facility to help provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — the new buzz word of 2020 — to all those who need it

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during the pandemic. And that’s not just for the healthcare profession and fire/police services, but area businesses, organizations, homes for the elderly and the general public (kids included) as well! “Extensive research, supplier sourcing and product registration work has been done to ensure that all our products meet the appropriate requirements of Health Canada and ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in our work is not compromised,” Wallace states. “Not only did we want to ensure that there was a reliable source for medical grade PPE available for the community, we also wanted to ensure that businesses could have an option to continue their branding in creative, but safe, ways that follow the guidelines of Health Canada.” The PPE they supply includes earloop disposable and KN95 face masks; reusable goggles; face shields; isolation gowns; reusable neck gaiters; and disinfectant medical packs, which consist of face masks, gloves, hand sanitizer wipes, all in one small packaged unit. (View a list of products at: SmartexCanada.net). “The future trajectory of Smartex Canada will be to continuously provide PPE supplies and materials to those who may need them during the COVID-19 pandemic, while we still can.” Wallace says. “This will eventually taper off once the pandemic has gradually decreased to a more manageable and predictable state, along with our focus shifting back 100 percent toward our main business.”

16. °“ Wonderful ° Window Display” (A business selling quality, affordable windows that completes the job on time.) The nominees are . . . ° Expert Windows And Doors, 2775 Kew Drive, Unit 20, Windsor ° Guaranteed Windows & Doors, 2825 Lauzon Parkway, Windsor ° Kehl Windows And Doors, 370 King St. West, Harrow ° Martindale Windows & Doors Inc., 2895 Kew Drive, Windsor ° Rocksolid Windows & Doors Ltd, 4215 Concession Rd. 7, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Kehl Windows And Doors For over 20 years, Kehl Windows and Doors has been manufacturing their own brand of windows, doors and insulated glass, such as sliders, single and double hung, casements, swing doors, and custom insulated glass. Their complete custom factory is a one-stopshop that both manufactures and installs

their products. “Our new interactive site (KehlWindowAndDoor.com) lets us stay in touch with our customers through the whole sales process, once an order is placed,” indicates Richard Kehl, Owner of Kehl Windows and Doors. “We are currently working on software with AlphaKOR to produce a complete interactive experience for our customers, for Zoom type calls and also a virtual walk through our plant to see the type of window (or door) you are looking for. And we have launched new products that most consumers have never seen before, such as our fire hatch window, the Eternity fully customizable door, the Celestial multi-panel sliding door and our corner drive zero gravity window.” According to Kehl, “Currently we are the only manufacturer in this area to use a non-metal high-energy spacer in our insulated glass unit. Our new products, such as the fire hatch window, which allows easy escape from basements, is unique to our company and designed by us.” Fifteen people are currently employed at the business, including their own installers who work fast, but efficiently! An average full house of windows could take up to four days to install, yet Kehl and his dedicated team recently completed an apartment building in Leamington, of 135 windows that were manufactured in 10 days and installed in 12 days, with all COVID-19 standard protocols met! “As a strong competitor in the window regional

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Kehl Windows and Doors manufactures their own brand of windows and sells directly to the homeowner. Photo courtesy of Richard Kehl.

market, Kehl Windows and Doors manufactures and provides a quality product at competitive pricing,” believes Judge Renaud. “With their factory they service the needs of residential and commercial consumers in the community.” The company offers a lifetime warranty on all vinyl hardware and insulated glass, which is fully transferable. They belong to many associations, such as the Better Business Bureau; Canadian Federation of Independent Business; NAMI, the National Fenestration Rating Council licensed Inspection Agency; Insulating Glass Manufacturers Association of Canada, and Fenestration Canada, not to mention they are an accredited Energy Star Canada manufacturer with agreements concurrent. Judge Goulet had a bias in this category and did not participate in any conversation about it or vote on it.

17. °“ Pedal Power ° Palace” (Where to buy the first bike for your child or if you plan to take up cycling for fun or racing, somewhere that has a large inventory or even sells Ebikes!) The nominees are . . . ° Ambassador Bicycles, 1932 Ambassador Drive, Windsor ° Bicycle World, 1267 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor ° Infinity Cycle, 360 Eugenie St. East, Unit 204, Windsor ° Windsor Electric Bicycles/Scooter Pro, 5950 North Service Rd. East, Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Ambassador Bicycles With a massive 3,000 square foot showroom, Ambassador Bicycles (Abikes.com) is Windsor and Essex County’s largest independent bicycle store. Located in west Windsor — ideally situated for access to Malden Park, the Herb Grey parkway trails and the LaSalle trail network — their store

carries bikes and accessories from some of the most reputable brands in the world including Trek, Giant, Liv and Electra. “We are the only store in the area to offer a proper online shopping experience and have the city’s most efficient and best value-for-money workshop, with three full-time mechanics to complement our knowledgeable, friendly sales staff,” claims Robert Parent, Owner of Ambassador Bicycles. “You don’t just buy a bike from us, you make an investment in your health and lifestyle and we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness goals.” Prices range from a children’s bike starting at $150 to a Trek Project One that can cost over $15,000. While the shop was established in 2002, Parent has been involved in the Windsor/Essex County cycling community since the early 1980s and was instrumental in establishing some of the first bike trails and races in the area. His staff of three to six biking enthusiasts have all been racing bikes since their training wheels came off! “The staff at Ambassador Bikes are very friendly, informative and attentive to detail for what a new or seasoned bike rider needs,” expresses Judge Barker. “They are taking all the precautions during the pandemic too, which is important in keeping their employees and customers safe.” Each customer is greeted at the door and then shown the bike they have come to see. The goal is to still provide exceptional

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The showroom of Ambassador Bicycles features all styles and types of bikes from road, mountain, city, and hybrid, to dual sport, cruiser, kids, gravel, and Cyclo-cross, as well as more pedalassist models than any other store in the area.° Photo courtesy of Bob Hodge.

customer service while adhering to guidelines on space, distance and contact. “Traditionally, we are very much a ‘hands on’ store, we take the time to find out what you’re looking for, what your expectations are and where you want to be with your cycling and fitness in the future, which has always involved showing customers bikes and accessories and then letting them try different types of bikes before they buy,” Parent explains. “When that option

was no longer available, we had to move to a virtual support option that involved lots of long phone calls, email and messenger discussions. COVID-19 has bought unique challenges to us, but it’s also made us evolve as a business. We’re seeing significant benefits to having a blended in-person and online shopping experience. As we start to progress towards regular retail practices we can look back and say, ‘That was one hell of a ride’!”

18.°“Forever In Blue ° Jeans Heaven” (The place that makes a fashion statement with stylish and comfy jeans for women, men or both.) The nominees are . . . ° 67 Richmond Men’s Fashion Clothing, 178 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg and 1614 Lesperance Rd., Unit 6A, Tecumseh ° At Ease Men’s Apparel, 354 Manning Rd., Tecumseh ° Milana’s Menswear, 46 Erie St. South, Leamington ° Savvy Boutique, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Tecumseh

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Milana’s Menswear At Milana’s Menswear, they know clothes make the man. Their three levels of floor space have everything a modern man wants and needs — all under one roof — including suits, blazers, dress pants, dress shirts, ties, sport shirts, jeans, belts and shoes. Their denim brands include: 34 Heritage, DL1961, Buffalo, Mavi, Silver, 7 Downie St., Slone, Levi’s, Lois, Guess, Bugatchi, Venti, Point Zero, Au Nour and many more! Their denim prices range from $119 to $179. Operating since September 1993, their staff of three knowledgeable employees pride themselves a superior customer experience. “Our customer service is the best in Essex County because we make sure everyone is greeted from the minute they walk into the store and helped by experienced people,” believes Nat Milana, Owner of Milana’s Menswear. “No customer leaves our store without a thank you for coming in and we have built a strong relationship with all of our customers and hope to build many more.” To deal with the challenges the pandemic presented, free in-town delivery and twice a week delivery to Windsor was introduced as a new service. “We have followed all the government recommendations since the beginning of COVID-19, making sure our staff and customers are safe while working and shopping in our store,” Milana

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Neil Diamond may sing “We’d do okay, forever in blue jeans,” but make sure they come from Milana’s Menswear in Leamington! (Shown are 34 Heritage jeans). Photo courtesy of Nat Milana.

states. “We opened up a website as well, (MilanasMenswear.com) to ensure we can serve those who don’t feel safe coming to the store.” “Milana’s Menswear is a little gem of a store in the heart of Leamington, defining fashion and style with great comfort,” says Judge Barker. “Inside you can find everything from suits and European fashions to designer jeans for the comfortable relaxed days of a man’s life. The owner also is a neat guy and since the words ‘By The Jean Academy’ can be found in the company logo, this reinforces the reason why this shop is the ideal fit for this category!”

19. “Coolest ° Kids Clothes” (From infants to teens and all ages in between, a children’s shop with a large selection, fair prices and friendly staff. ) The nominees are . . . ° Cradle & All Consignment And Retail, 1395 Tecumseh Rd. East, Unit B, Windsor ° Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop, 1471 Ottawa St., Windsor ° The Kids Shoppe, 2950 Dougall Ave., Unit 2, Windsor ° Young Fabulous Children’s Boutique, 1700 Sprucewood Ave., Unit 200, LaSalle And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop Since November 2017, Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop has been a one-stop-shop for families on a budget. Prices start at just 99 cents and items are priced between 30 and 60 percent off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price for clothes (for newborns and up to 16 years of age), shoes, toys, accessories, gear, safety and feeding items. “We take items consigned

The racks at Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop, owned by Jessica Ryan, are full of many brands of clothing, styles and great prices for newborns and those up to 16 years of age. Photo courtesy of Jessica’s son.

from individuals — some items have been worn and loved, while others come in new with tags,” notes Jessica Ryan, Owner of Siblings Children’s Consignment Shop and mother of four. “We also offer vendor accessories from small businesses in Windsor Essex. We do our best to represent a little of every corner of family life!” Ryan went the extra mile during the pandemic to find out exactly what her customers needed, whether it’s by appointment or video call shopping, using their social media page

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(Facebook.com/siblingsconsignment) to post items for sale or even offering delivery when needed. Future shopping options in the works include extended hours, pop-up vendor displays and seasonal sales. “We used the ‘pause’ of COVID-19 to find a bigger space and set up a whole new location (still remaining on Ottawa Street though) in order to provide a better shopping experience to match our recent growth!” Ryan explains. “We checked with many other businesses to see how we could support them and we’re thrilled to see the same attitude from so many businesses. We’re all in this together!” As a consignment shop for children, families are everything to Ryan’s staff of four. “The staff there are so friendly and they have quality used items, brand names included,” says Judge Goulet. “Most clothing items look brand new with some still having the original price tags! As a bonus, they also sell maternity clothes, which are hard to find locally.” Also a “2020 Powerhouse Professional” nominee, Ryan has been working hard to take-in a rush of new consignors and customers, even during a pandemic. “We have the privilege to know many of our customers and consignors on a first name basis and we never miss out on an opportunity to get to know our community better,” Ryan states. “We do our best to meet every customer’s specific needs. My youngest, River, has even been known to deliver orders in the basket of her bicycle, with mom’s help, of course.” Now that’s service!

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20. “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2020!”

HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT

(Can be a new or an existing restaurant/food truck that offers exceptional cuisine, fair prices and has a unique, trendy atmosphere — patio dining/take-out only acceptable.) The nominees are . . . ° Carrots N’ Dates, 1125 Lesperance Rd., Unit 1, Tecumseh ° China Kitchen Eatery, 511 Cabana Rd. East, Unit B, Windsor ° Dhesi Swaad, 21 Chatham St. East, Windsor ° Doggystyle Hotdogs And Poutine, 1494 Pillette Rd., Windsor ° Eastern Flavours, 4072 Walker Rd., Windsor ° Eastwood’s Grill & Lounge, 63 Riverside Drive East, Windsor ° Healthy Mama, 152 Lesperance Rd., Unit 2, Tecumseh ° Hurricane’s Pub And Grill, 3217 Sandwich St. West, Windsor ° KOMA (Kitchen Of Michael Anthony), 3090 Dougall Ave., Suite 403, Windsor

brought to you by

MCCCU.com ° Michigan Diner, 7435 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° nooch: a vegan eatery, 350 Cabana Rd. East, Windsor ° Nutrition 519, 2345 Pillette Rd., Windsor ° Ortona 1864 Café & Panino Shop, 1864 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor ° Pomegranate Chinese Cuisine, 7816 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor

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° Rico Taco Mexican Street Eats, Instagram.com/ricotacowindsor, Windsor ° Riviera Maya Bar And Grill, 4 Wellington St., Leamington ° Sandwich Brewing Company, 3232 Sandwich St., Windsor ° Tabouli By Eddy’s Lebanese Cuisine, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Unit F5, Tecumseh ° The Plant Base, 126 Richmond St., Amherstburg ° the.dotte, 5720 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor ° TOAST Restaurant, 653 Erie St. East, Windsor ° Windsor Tea Emporium, 1295 Ottawa St., Windsor

And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . the.dotte New to the dining scene this year, this trendy Riverside restaurant features a fun and relaxed environment where customers can enjoy a variety of creative and flavourful street food, as well as delicious cocktails and a diverse selection of local beer. “We believe the element of surprise and change is part of life, so it’s a part of the.dotte,” express owners Yervant and Hagop Lakhoian. “That’s why our menu changes frequently, with new items and sometimes an entire new list appearing.”

Local graffiti and fine-art artist David Derkatz (better known as Derkz) was the perfect choice to create this mural for the.dotte, which represents Windsor as the “City of Roses.” All photos courtesy of the.dotte.

(Facebook.com/thedottefoodanddrink is the best way to keep up to date on the latest offerings!). The brothers, who also own and operate Frenchy’s Poutinery downtown, believe in making street food with diverse flavours. “Our prices are fair and we offer guests the ability to try multiple menu items as part of our street food experience,” they state. “Our guests typically order three or four dishes each and tacos (chicken caesar, shrimp, steak) are a favourite!” According to the brothers, the recipe to their success

is hard work and a smile. “We are not only the owners, but the bartenders, kitchen staff, servers and dishwashers,” the Lakhoians comment. “We are a family business, which makes us the face of our restaurant, therefore we work hard to make our guests feel like family. We want them to enjoy themselves and know they are appreciated.” The staff of 10 aim to please and ensure their customers enjoy their visit — whether that means moving a table indoors halfway through a meal because of bees, or whipping up a quesadilla for a little one. They make sure their guests know they will pull out all the stops to provide the best possible dining

Experience a street, eclectic vibe inside the.dotte.

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At the.dotte, meals and apps are served in containers, keeping with the street food theme. In this photo, clockwise from top left: chicken tacos, steak tacos, a Smash Burger, papaya salad, green beans and poutine.

experience. Yet, the road to their opening has already been filled with a few potholes! When the.dotte was preparing to open, the pandemic hit, so adjustments had to be made. “We started out by doing a variety of takeout pop-ups, including Frenchy’s, Toasty’s, El Dotte and Burger Bros.,” they explain. “We built a patio for our official opening as the.dotte in early July, after stage two was announced.” As a result, 40 diners can be accommodated on the patio with 34 inside, as well as takeout. It all worked out in the end as all nominators agree: “the.dotte offers an exceptional dining experience

with affordable prices, a selection of dishes with something for every palate and great service.” With its impressive selection of street food and fancy cocktails, this new hot spot is a perfect outing for a Saturday night date in Riverside! Judge Renaud did not vote in this category due to a bias.

If you could pick one type of food to “survive” on for the rest of your life, what would it be? Many may say “gyros”! Whereas all award nominees offer delicious Greek grub, it was the Tecumseh and Jefferson Sofos location that won over Judges with items like their homemade beef gyros, loaded with meat. Photos courtesy of Thanos Zikantas.

21.°“ The Greek God ° ° Of Grub” (Diner, grill or restaurant to pick up a mouth watering gyro or enjoy your favourite Greek dish.) *Nominees in this category could not participate in category #20. The nominees are . . . ° Greek Boy Restaurant, 6152 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Gyros & More, 301 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Nick The Greek, 3839 Dougall Ave. and 8474 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor ° Sofos, 6082 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° Stathis Grill, 1657 College Ave., Windsor ° Thanasi’s Olympus Greek Restaurant, 1204 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor ° The Hungry Wolf Restaurant, 3422 Walker Rd., Windsor and The Hungry Wolf Express, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 11, Tecumseh And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Sofos Thanos Zikantas purchased Sofos with his sister 22 years ago, making the siblings the third family to own the restaurant in its 60year history. Like the families that came before them, their mission has always been to deliver exceptional and consistent quality food to everyone who walks through the door

(or orders items for delivery). “As tempting as it could be to offer processed gyro meat at a fraction of the cost, we never compromise our homemade gyro recipe, which has positioned us as the busiest Greek restaurant in the city, selling a whopping 35,000 lbs per year — and growing!” Zikantas claims. “Our homemade Greek dressing, which also dates back 60 years, allowed us to expand this sauce into thousands of national retail stores throughout Canada and the U.S.” Other popular choices on the menu include the Greek chicken pita, Greek salad and sweet Honey Ballz for dessert. Their staff of 15 is ready and waiting to serve customers with huge portions, fair prices and homemade recipes, with a smile. “Having learned many lessons in the restaurant industry, in terms of leveraging technology to grow our business, we developed our own Point Of Sale (POS) software called Jubzi,” states Zikantas (view: Sofos.Jubzi.com). “Similar to the technology that one would see in a McDonalds, we designed a POS to accommodate quick service, kitchen communications, kiosk and online ordering.” The implementation of this technology significantly reduced their food delivery time from 10 minutes to five, which can really help businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Zikantas, who wishes to help make life a bit easier and more efficient for other local restaurant owners, points out this technological solution can be also used by

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The beef/lamb gyros represent nearly half of Sofos sales.

other establishments, at a cost. Sofos has a 60-seat capacity for dining inside, with takeout and home delivery also offered. “The majority of the staff have impeccable memories and often times when a customer walks in, their order is already prepared by the time they make their way to the cash,” he says. “Our family environment draws like-minded people who feel appreciated and reciprocate this with our staff.” Their reviews on Google are like a report card that they monitor to ensure they are not stuck in a bubble and their customers are happy with their service and experience. “I’ve been to all of the places in this category,” remarks Judge Kerluck. “What really stands out about Sofos is their portion sizes, their sauces and a great presentation that will keep me, and of course, their regular customers, coming back for more time after time.” Judge DeMarco and Judge Renaud did not vote in this category due to a conflict.

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22. °“ Sparkling Winery” (Good wine is a must, but added perks like a restaurant on site, event facility and tasting tours can be considered.) The nominees are . . . ° Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards, 1425 Iler Rd., Harrow ° Dancing Swallows Vineyard Ltd., 8704 Howard Ave., Amherstburg ° North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, 130 Essex County Rd. 50 East, Colchester ° Oxley Estate Winery, 533 County Rd. 50 East, R.R.#1, Harrow ° Paglione Estate Winery, 724 County Rd. 50 East, Harrow ° Pelee Island Winery, 455 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville and 20 East West Road, Pelee Island And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards Since 2011, Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards has been providing wines to the LCBO and over 50 bars and restaurants in Windsor and Essex County, along with several restaurants in the greater Toronto area. The winery name was chosen from one of the many birds of prey that frequent the five acres of green space surrounding the vineyards, and the company logo symbolizes their commitment to the environment. Their 29 different wines include Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and icewine. They range in price from $14 to $20 for most wines, with their reserves selling in the $35 range. “Our sparkling wine, made from estate grown Chardonnay, recently won a silver medal at the ‘Finger Lakes International Wine Competition’, against European and California wines,” mentions

Whereas water is essential to live, there are many who believe they would not “survive” without a glass of wine at the end of a long, hard day! Situated on 70 acres of land in the Lake Erie North Shore viticulture region, Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards features world-class wines, expertly crafted cuisine at The Vines Restaurant, an event hall and a naturalist’s haven. Photos courtesy of the winery.

Thomas O’Brien, Owner of Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards. “While my experience is only in drinking wine (LOL!), we have always hired professional winemakers — our winemaker right now is from New Zealand and our assistant winemaker is from Portugal.” O’Brien’s passion for wine came from touring wine countries in Ontario, British Columbia, California, France and Italy. “Winemaking is like making magic from juice,” O’Brien says. “Our manta here is: ‘Family, friends, food and fun’ — we just love how people enjoy it.” They have a full tasting room and wine terrace outside along with a restaurant — The Vines — which offers both local produce and higher end chef creations, which change with the season. The restaurant has a seating capacity of 44 with outdoor patio seating available, in good weather, for another 40. They also have an event hall holding up to 150, which was used 45 times last year for weddings, showers, corporate events and customer/staff appreciation parties. During the COVID-19 shutdown, an online ordering service for wine was launched and now they offer free delivery in Windsor Essex on wine orders over $80 (order at: CoopersHawkVineyards.com). “We are very community minded and during the pandemic

Congrats! 23rd Annual Biz X Award Winners & Nominees FROM YOUR PARTNERS IN TOURISM

VISITWINDSORESSEX.COM

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we ran a buy-one-donate-one campaign,” notes O’Brien. “We gave over 1,500 bottles of wine to area hospitals worth over $35,000.”

2019 CHV Amber (Skin Fermented White) is now on the shelves! This liquid gold is well balanced, showing crisp acidity, and citrus notes.

For Judge Renaud, “Soaring above other brand competitors, Cooper’s Hawk offers a diverse array of products ranging from its Cabernet Franc to its Riesling and flavourful fruit wines. The business continues to set a gold standard in terms of quality, pricing, service and giving back to the community.” This is the second Biz X Award for Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards, after winning previously in 2011 for “Outstanding New Business.”

23.°“Extraordinary ° Event Caterer” (The company to count on to ensure your private office or home party features fabulous food and a top-notch presentation.) The nominees are . . . ° Carmen’s Catering, 75 Oak St. West, Leamington ° Coffee & Cream, CoffeeAndCream.ca, Windsor ° Exquisite Events Catering Windsor, ExquisiteEventsWindsor.com ° Just Jeff’s Gourmet Express Inc., 4315 Seminole St., Windsor And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Just Jeff’s Gourmet Express Inc. Just Jeff’s Gourmet Express specializes in home comfort foods, such as roasts, meat pies, casseroles, soups and sauces. Everything is homemade and fresh. “We specialize in comfort food, not any specific ethnic type or style of cuisine,” says Owner Jeff White, a past Biz X Award recipient in 2003 for “Outstanding New Business”. White has maintained a passion

Inside the Seminole Street location of Just Jeff’s Gourmet Express Inc., from left: Carol Belleperche, Owner Jeff White, Taylor Iftiniuk, Sarah Seeger, Brad Millben and Steve Boow, hold up a party platter of Nothings & Salsa chips. This popular item features their famous addictive chips in a secret seasoning with tomato salsa on the side. Photo courtesy of Cody Leveque/Just Jeff’s.

for food and cooking for most of his life. “I fell in love with cooking at the age of 16 when I worked the grill at Harvey’s on Dougall, back then,” he recalls. “I took my first kitchen job at the Devonshire Motel on Howard, then I went to Stratford

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Chef’s School at the age of 18. I’ve been cooking for 36 plus years now and still love it to this day.” Menu suggestions for groups of six or more include: a holiday turkey buffet, southern sliders or build your own fajitas. Individual boxed

chicken parmesan, beef and sausage jambalaya and chicken fajita wraps are also great choices, as are party platters of quesadillas, cheesy buffalo chicken dip and cinnamon crisps. And White “takes all measures to accommodate any dietary needs, allergies or special requests.” An extensive list of all catering menu items, with prices per person, are posted on: JustJeffs.com. “Not only has Just Jeff’s stood the test of time as a business, but it has evolved to offer quality and reliable catering for all occasions from weddings to corporate events to every day meal plans,” believes Judge DeMarco. “Just Jeff’s and its 10 employees offer a variety of healthy convenient options and gives back to the community through charitable food donations.” Like many businesses, Just Jeff’s experienced some unplanned changes during the pandemic. As White explains, “Since 75 percent of our business was catering, we took a large hit. We decided to focus on individual meals and delivery of them, utilizing our catering trucks to bring meals to our customers. We do a lot of combo dinners and small drop-off catering now. We have been blessed during this time because our grab-and-go meals and drop-off catering has grown four times larger than it was.”

24. °“Favourite Home ° Away From Home” (A quaint, affordable place to stay overnight such as a B&B or cottage.) *No hotels/motels. The nominees are . . . ° A Hidden Gem Bed And Breakfast, 406 Moy Ave., Windsor ° Bondy House Bed & Breakfast, 199 Dalhousie St., Amherstburg ° Magnolia Ranch, 178 County Rd. 50 East, Harrow ° Mettawas End, Bed and Breakfast, 64 Park St., Kingsville ° Red Mill Retreat, 35 Mill St. East, Kingsville And the°Biz X°Award goes to . . . Magnolia Ranch Located in the heart of wine country on Lake Erie, Magnolia Ranch is a gorgeous, four bedroom, newly renovated Bed and Breakfast situated on a 10-acre property with stunning views. There are so many ways for guests to enjoy their stay, with cycling, birding, fishing, golfing and

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wine touring, just a stone’s throw away! Cooking classes led by top chefs, catered functions, outdoor events and weddings are also offered. “The ‘enchanted forest’ runs along the west side of the property and it is absolutely breath-taking, especially during the fall,” state Linda Jeffery and Gloria Cavenago, Owners of Magnolia Ranch. “Inside, we beautifully integrate modern furnishings that complement the antiques

Old world charm meets modern amenities at the Magnolia Ranch. A good night’s sleep and a home-cooked breakfast prepares all guests for the adventures to come.

remaining from the previous owner, and we added décor to honour the home’s era with a little flare. It was really important for us to keep all of the gorgeous cherry, pine, maple and walnut woods throughout the home.” Included among the many amenities in the rooms are: a mini-fridge (stocked with water); a smart TV; lush robes; towels; luxury mattresses, bedding and pillows, and matches to light candles or to light the fire pit outside. Music also plays and candles are lit upon arrival. Guests can choose the breakfast of their choice in the Breakfast Room and have access to a toaster, coffee maker and tea kettle. In addition, the entire home is scented with a diffuser and fresh flowers are everywhere! Depending on the room booked, prices range from $185 to $300 per night (get more details on: MagnoliaRanch.ca). “Come winter, when we have a full house, we would love for our guests to come in from their wine tour and be treated to a warm crock-pot meal and fresh bread,” say Jeffery and Cavenago. “All of our guests receive concierge service to ensure their stay is perfect. Before arrival, we reach out to guests to inquire about where they plan to visit and make reservations on their behalf.” Guests are also invited to use one of three two-wheeler bikes, a tandem bike or a three-wheeler, to explore wine

Magnolia Ranch is a newly renovated°Bed and Breakfast situated in the heart of wine country and across the street from Lake Erie. The magnificent 10-acre property offers endless possibilities of° ways for its guests to enjoy a luxurious stay. Photos courtesy of Taylor Lanoie.

country (weather permitting of course). Ready to lend a helping hand are Innkeeper Anne-Marie Cappelli, who lives on site in a separate suite from the home, and social media strategist Taylor Lanoie. And local businesses like caterers, florists, wedding planners, yoga teachers and photographers are always on the owners’ list of contacts to help make events and weekend getaways extra special. After opening in 2019, COVID-19 hit, forcing them to implement some new measures. “Along with all the mandated adaptations to our business, we made adjustments to go above and beyond

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for our guests,” report Jeffery and Cavenago. “We constructed a cement pad to allow our guests to have outdoor micro-wedding ceremonies.” And big plans are in the works for a new event space and micro brewery! “The Magnolia Ranch looks like something you would see on the Hallmark Channel,” expresses Judge Baker. “It definitely is an experience to stay there, complete with cooking classes, plenty of romance and a whole lot more.” Even more reasons to prove why the ranch was a double nominee, as it also earned a nomination for “Outstanding New Business of 2020”!

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

A Little “Face Time” With YourTV Host John Fairley By Joe McParland

n the year 2000, many of us lived through the historic ending of the second millennium and the ushering in of the third. It was also when John Fairley began his 20-year run with the “Face to Face” program on TV Cogeco — now operating as YourTV — and is still running strong with it today. Fairley is one of three sons, along with Grant and Brian born to Lois and Harry Fairley. It was his mother, Lois, who set him on his pathway to community engagement and volunteerism. A nurse for more than 38 years at Windsor’s Grace Hospital, she was looked upon by her fellow nurses as “the heart and soul of nursing in Windsor”. With Fairley following his mother’s lead, the apple has not fallen far from the tree. Countless charities and non-profit organizations have benefitted through the years from Fairley’s big-hearted volunteer spirit. This was one of the many reasons why he earned the 2016 Biz X Award for “Charity Begins With This Mover & Shaker.” No charity has been blessed more with its ongoing development and growth than the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County Inc. (TheHospice.ca). A yearly fundraiser takes place each fall, bearing the name the “Hospice Face to Face” campaign. Essentially Fairley’s idea, he believes: “It is perhaps the simplest, yet most successful, yearly local fundraising campaign in this area.” The 2020 campaign raised an amazing $95,726! And over the last 18 years of the campaign over $1.2 million has been raised! Marlene Corey, a Producer with YourTV (Cable 11/HD Cable 700), has worked with Fairley very closely on all his shows and charity endeavours. She describes his charitable nature and fundraising genius this way: “John’s humorous, good-natured manner of asking for donations makes it difficult for someone not to support the ‘Hospice Face to Face’ campaign. He is the master of promotion. During the Hospice campaign he promotes local businesses that°support the campaign. Everyone is included in the celebration and our Hospice wins!”° Fairley first pitched the concept of

the “Face to Face” show to Cogeco’s local management and provided the creative framework. Corey, along with Cogeco staff — Programming and Community Relations Manager, the late Robert Scussolin; former Producer Paul Tann produced the original show intro; the professionals at Media Street Productions (MediaStreet.ca) and the very talented,°Mike Poirier — have also assisted°in producing elements for the show over the years.° Hundreds of guests from every walk of life have sat across from Fairley at his desk in the YourTV studio to share their stories. He has a unique questioning style that elicits responses from guests they do not often give elsewhere. As Corey explains, “John has fun as the volunteer host and community Producer for ‘Face to Face’.°He does not take himself too seriously and tries to open the conversation to more than just politics. John adds an amusing slant to politics and asks the relevant°questions viewers want answers to.” After being a guest on “Face to Face”, former Windsor City Councillor Ron Jones was the first to identify something in Fairley’s interviewing style which he shared with other councillors being interviewed by Fairley. He noted that Fairley was unintentionally doing something that was akin to a baseball pitcher tipping off what pitch he was throwing next. According to Fairley, “I was unaware that when I was about to ‘go for the kill’ with a killer interview question, my left eyebrow would suddenly and noticeably rise up.” Once his brow shot up, you knew something good was coming. Over the last two decades Fairley has produced and hosted “Face to Face” as a volunteer, while working at the same time as a marketing giant in the local bingo industry (2001-2007) before joining the administrative ranks of St. Clair College (2007 to present) as Vice-President College Communications and Community Relations (StClairCollege.ca). Fairley explains, “The demands of producing and hosting a television show B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

YourTV “Face to Face” Host and 2016 Biz X Award winner for “Charity Begins With This Mover & Shaker,” John Fairley poses with Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones during the 19th annual “Biz X Awards Gala” at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. Jones has also been a guest on Fairley’s “Face to Face” show in 2012. Photo by Lori Deschaine.

while meeting obligations of my ‘real’ employment make for a very hectic life, but I am so grateful for the support and encouragement, for my work on ‘Face to Face,’ I have received from former President Dr. John Strasser and current college President, Patti France.” Fairley and I recently reminisced about some of the more memorable guests over 20 years, but I will wrap this up by highlighting three. The first is former Windsor City Councillor, Fulvio Valentinis, the longest serving Councillor and a true statesman and gentleman. Valentinis was not only Fairley’s first guest on “Face to Face” 20 years ago, but he also became the season opening guest each year until he relinquished his council seat in 2014. Since then, to the present, each new season opens with the Mayor of Windsor as Fairley’s guest.

Father Paul Charbonneau, founder, and former Executive Director of Brentwood Recovery Home appeared on a 2004 show. Photo courtesy of YourTV.

The second memorable guest is the late Father Paul Charbonneau, the founder and Executive Director for 45 years at Brentwood Recovery Home. Fairley conducted an important and poignant interview in 2004 with “Fr. Paul”

in terms of addiction and recovery. That episode has since been replayed every year by YourTV during the Christmas holiday season — a time when this important message is needed by so many. The third and final guest is none other than Ernie Lamont, better known as the “Bacon Man”. (I am open to be fact checked on this, but I believe that he holds the record for the highest number of elections a candidate has been part of here in Windsor!). Fairley’s interview was a departure from the norm for him. It was not an in-studio interview, but, rather, a ride along with Lamont in his famous heavily advertisement-laden “Bacon Man” van, a real-life mobile billboard. Accompanied by a Cogeco camera crew, Fairley was chauffeured by Lamont through downtown Windsor where they discussed all his most recent ideas for the downtown core. The tour ended up at the Elias Deli for a bite to eat. Fairley recalls, “I had arranged ahead of time for the iconic owner, Elias ‘Louie’ Sleiman, to bring out for Ernie the tallest pile of bacon for a bacon sandwich that could possibly be constructed.” That image, and his interview with Ernie, is one I will never forget. Not only was it fun and novel, but it truly captured

John Fairley with Windsor City Councillor Fulvio Valentinis in 2014. Photo courtesy of YourTV.

the hearts of two Windsor celebrities and boosters — Fairley and Lamont. For a complete list of all Fairley’s guests over the past 20 years, visit: Face-To-FaceTV.com/guests.htm. It is an impressive list of people. And the website, maintained by his brother, Grant, is a trove of information related to “Face to Face”. You can also check the upcoming schedule at: YourTV.tv/windsor-leamington/shows.

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Congratulations on 20 great years, John and the dedicated crew of “Face to Face”. We now look forward to many more years of the same!

*** Biz X magazine wishes to dedicate this article to the memory of YourTV’s Program Manager, Robert Scussolin, who passed away August 20, 2020 after a 38 year career. May he rest in peace.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN Story And Photo By Julianna Bonnett

Linda Innes

“She’s Got The Look” As the Owner of Linda’s Fashions & Accessories, Linda Innes wants every woman to “love their look”. Celebrating 20 years of business this past September, Innes has ensured that all her customers — past, present and future — always leave her store feeling wonderful.

ocal entrepreneur Linda Innes has made it her mission to make sure you “love your look” when you leave her boutique. Celebrating 20 years, Linda’s Fashions & Accessories has provided women with comfortable, affordable and fashionable clothing, while ensuring all customers leave the store looking and feeling fantastic. Being in customer service since she was a teenager, Innes is definitely a people person. “I opened in September of 2000 and expanded the store three years later into double the space,” Innes recounts, adding, “I’ve enjoyed every moment of it.” At 17 years of age she started selling Tupperware and did so for 24 years. In 1997, she left the Tupperware business and decided to sell clothes out of her home. “I had a home-based business called Your Home Boutique and I basically designed a program like how I was selling Tupperware,” Innes explains. “My dear, special friend Dawna hosted a party and invited a whole bunch of people and I brought clothes from a company that I used to sell — and it just went from there.” With her basement all set up, women started coming to her house with Innes doing one-on-one appointments and fashion shows, and then making the decision to open a shop, which is how Linda’s Fashions came to be. Located at 2492 Dougall Avenue in Windsor, 2020 is a special year for Innes. “We just had our 20th anniversary on September 14/15 and it’s not

that I didn’t believe that I would still be around after 20 years, it’s that I can’t believe 20 years have passed,” Innes comments. Like many businesses, Linda’s Fashions was closed for almost three months, but now it is back, better than ever, with new store renovations completed during the pandemic shutdown. “I wanted to reopen and be ready for our 20th anniversary,” Innes says. “I wanted customers, once they came back to shop again, to be excited about the store. I have so many wonderful loyal customers and after being closed it just gave me a new outlook on everything.” Back in April, one of her clients of over 10 years, reached out to Innes about making masks and she decided to order a few hundred just to have them available. “I put an email out to my customers and in the first 10 minutes I had 137 emails for orders,” Innes reports. “As soon as I had my first shipment — which was about 550 masks — we started calling people, we had their mask orders filled and we were at the store for certain hours during the day just for curbside pickups and it just kept going.” From April to mid-October, Linda’s Fashions sold over 5,000 masks. “Who would have thought we would be in the darn mask business?” she asks with a smile. “It brings customers into the store and again during that time I didn’t know what I was going to do with myself, so that kept me busy and pumped.” When Innes reopened Linda’s Fashions in June, it was with a positive attitude. “I can’t say business has been that bad, it’s been really good,” Innes comments. “I think women especially have realized how important it is to shop local and support small business because they want us open.” With over four employees; an inventory featuring a multiple amount of Canadian designers including French Dressing Jeans, IC Collection and Frank Lyman; handbags; jewellery; masks and offering a memorable shopping experience, Linda’s Fashions & Accessories is the perfect place to feel good, welcomed and to find the ideal fit. “We care about our customers, we just go that extra mile,” Innes proudly states and adds, “We have a birthday club, we have a loyalty club, we just try to do things that make people feel extra special.” For more information on this business visit their website: LindasFashionsAndAccessories.com.

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portfolio corner

Our 2020 Reset By Steven Mayo

This year has been dominated by COVID-19 and we have all had to adjust to new realities, whether at work, or within our families, or “bubbles”.° The most significant societal impact° of 2020 may be the increased divide between the “haves” and the “have nots”. The lasting impact on low income families, single parent families,°and the increase in mental illness will be with us for a long time.° As a result, the°need to°assist our local charities is more important than ever. Clearly, the investment world is miles apart from today’s everyday realities. While we have great empathy, we must focus on what we are able to control.° It’s the ability to filter the news and prioritize information that helps us move forward. We are getting better at digesting the daily news from our

government officials, whether we like it or not.° In the investment world there is a similar requirement to filter news. The°stock market deals with many topics including the U.S. election, progress on the vaccine front, interest rates, technology stocks, China-U.S. relations, consumer behaviour, valuations, earnings, and dividend policies. All are interesting, but only some are relevant to the average investor and like always, the only thing the everyday investor can control is what they do. Allow me to reference an old financial picture by°Behavior Gap°to illustrate my point that we re-created here. (See illustration above) 2020 has°seen a reset of personal priorities and°COVID-19 has narrowed°our choices. For example,°travel plans were replaced with

backyard barbecues and more bike rides. As we enter 2021 we hope to broaden our°activities, but today’s simple life can certainly result in a strengthened financial future. For many families, this may be the most important outcome of 2020. Warren Buffet has wise words on these matters . . . On spending: “If you buy things you don’t need, soon you will have to sell things you need.” On savings: “Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after savings.” 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.

RISE Windsor-Essex provides access to resources available to women entrepreneurs and women in STEM.

Follow RISE on social media or sign-up for their newsletter to stay up-to-date.

RISEWINDSORESSEX.COM Contact: Nicole Anderson nanderson@windsoressexsmallbusiness.com

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ask the experts

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Storage Made Beautiful For Every Room In The House By Dave Halliday

ou are in a deep sleep. The covers are pulled up. Your pillow is positioned perfectly . . . peace at last! Then you hear it, the unmistakable sound of the garbage truck making its way down your street. The rumble of the engine, the squeak of the brakes. That’s when you realize you forgot to put the garbage out last night! It’s maybe 5:30 a.m. and you fly out of bed and into action. You fumble your way through your cluttered closet trying to find your robe, anything that you can throw on to make the dash to the curb. You race to the back of the house and into the mudroom. Horrified you see your reflection in the window and realize the robe you have on is your wife’s! You frantically excavate your way through the pile of loose shoes at the door and eventually exit the house wearing one Croc and one golf shoe. You can hear the chatter of the sanitation retrieval specialist now. You run, robe blowing in the wind, garbage cans in tow, but you have failed. They pull around the corner and are gone from sight. Perhaps a bit of organization of your interior spaces would have made the difference! You pull your pink robe closed, to fight the cold, and make your

way back up the driveway to retrieve the Croc you threw during the mad rush. It’s clear you need to organize your space better! As always, Biz X is here to help and we discuss the possibilities with the experts at California Closets Windsor, who now operate out of a new showroom at 1160 Walker Road, since mid-October. (Online at: CaliforniaClosets.ca). Michelle “Mickey” Markham-Janzen, Owner of California Closets Windsor, has been helping local residents create beautiful, well organized storage and closet spaces for the past 20 years. As we have indicated you assist people in organizing and maximizing their living space. What types of areas are we discussing typically? “Obviously, we are involved in custom closet solutions,” comments Janzen (bedrooms, home offices, commercial spaces etc.). “We also assist with mudrooms (see accompanying photo), pantries, media centres, wine bars, and even garages.” What is the premise behind helping people in de-cluttering and organizing their current space? “We essentially customize and fit the space in question to meet the client’s needs and wants,” she indicates. “We work with the customer, always keeping in mind

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No matter what season of the year it may be, a mudroom — such as the example here inside a home in Harrow designed by California Closets Windsor — needs to provide a sense of organization and accessibility for a plethora of gear and outerwear. Welldesigned hanging space, shelving and sitting areas create organization and efficiency — with a whole lot of style. Photo by Rod Denis.

it is their space and they need to have a voice in the process so the solutions we propose are functional for them.” What considerations are there prior to embarking on your proposed closet re-organization? “We measure the space and then discuss possible solutions and styles of closet with the client,” Janzen explains. “We help assess what to keep and what needs to go! Small details, such as how a person hangs or folds their items

now and how that could change to accommodate a better solution, are considered and discussed.” Do you install the systems? “Our product is only installed by our technicians,” states Janzen. “We have our own trained installation teams. Each team has a master installer with an apprentice.” What are the benefits to planning and installing your closet organization with a professional? “The benefit is of great value and peace of mind,” she expresses. “It’s done the right way the first time.” Besides the obvious benefits of being organized what other positive effects can installing an organizational system have upon your home? “We often hear customers say we changed their lives,” informs Janzen, adding, “A closet or any storage system that provides positive effects in the life of the individual using the space can provide some calm in the storm of life.” Is there a customer support system in place to assist in the event of questions or concerns? “There are toll free numbers to call,” she replies, “But, really we want the customer to call us direct as we are here to support and assist them in any way.” You have to admit, you are saving a ton of time now as you go about your daily activities in your home. The organizational redesigns of your storage in your home have resulted in less wasted time searching for items, which is definitely an upgrade from the previous standard of cluttered and disorganized! You are even getting compliments about your mudroom and entryways, as people visit. And your immediate neighbours seem to be especially appreciative of the positive changes. Turns out your wife’s robe is a bit short and small on you and may not have covered as much as you thought it did!

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TECH BY TES

Light t he Way

Helping those deal with the loss of loved ones during a particularly difficult time over the holiday season.

A donation will “Light the Way” for both our Bereavement Program and Client Assistance Fund. Donate: windsoressex.cmha.ca/lighttheway2020/ Or email us at kwillis@cmha-wecb.on.ca These programs rely on donations - which in turn provide you with a charitable tax receipt prior to year end on Dec. 31, 2020. Santa Sponsor

Jingle Bell Sponsors

Windsor Avenue

Pharmacy

Building The Digital Marketplace Of The Future By Noah Campbell As COVID-19 continues to challenge main street economic viability, businesses must quickly change to transition to online business models. Windsor Essex businesses have recognized these challenges, adopted changes in business models and used support from government and industry to evolve. In needing to adhere to public health guidelines, alternative shopping methods are on the rise. However, the urgency of having an online presence can be daunting for owners. Many are unsure of where to start. With so many options, an owner may think he or she must be an e-commerce expert to succeed. Ten years ago, this may have been the case, but now . . . not at all. The “Digital Main Street” (DMS) program available through the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre (SBC) in partnership with the Ontario Business Improvement Association can provide your business with free digital transformation consulting. via SBC’s Digital Service Squad. These highly trained teams come on-site and provide one-on-one assistance, digital assessments and offer services and recommendations, including activating free and easy-to-use tools. This team can also help you access the “ShopHERE” powered by Google program and help you apply for a Digital Transformation Grant. The business support doesn’t end there. In partnership with the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, Communitech and WEtech Alliance also offer the “Digital Main Street Future Proof” program. This program includes three streams: Transformation Teams, Digital Main Street Labs, and Community Collaboration Projects. Transformation Teams is a program that provides in-depth business transformation support to small businesses — at no charge to the company — an extension of the work of the Digital Service Squad. (Note that businesses can return to the Digital Service Squad following the program duration). The goal of Transformation Teams is to help businesses create and execute a deep digital transformation plan, helping them to not only survive, but thrive. In true Windsor Essex fashion, partners have also crafted an additional solution, with thanks to local web development firm, Splice Digital whose ShopMyTown.ca platform creates a haven for small business owners hoping to take the leg work out of selling online. With the appropriate information prepared, owners can start selling online within a day. “This project started as a personal desire of our own team to shop local,” says Brian Hendel, President of Splice Digital. “With COVID-19, this desire to have an online local marketplace became a necessity.” Hendel led his internal team to build this platform that now hosts over 40 local businesses. Despite the idea being realized during the COVID-19 pandemic, the platform will continue for the long-haul. As the holidays approach, it is crucial that the community comes together safely to shop locally. Imagine a holiday season filled with local stores and products that create resilient and vibrant main streets here in Windsor Essex. This will be the first step towards the digital marketplace of the future. To learn more on how your business can take advantage of the DMS “Future Proof” program, visit: WEtech-Alliance.com/dms. “Tech Bytes” is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com). Noah Campbell is the Tech Community Program Manager for WEtech Alliance and the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation. He works to support entrepreneurs and champion innovation.

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‘TIS THE SEASON

There’s No Time Like The “Present”, The TWEPI Holiday Gift Guide Is Here

With the holiday season fast Looking for something unique to give approaching, Tourism Windsor Essex this year? Why not get creative and gift Pelee Island (TWEPI) wants you to one of the unique buyable experiences support local with their annual Holiday featured. With everything from cooking Gift Guide, available at: YQGholidays.ca. classes to learning Stand Up Paddle Home to numerous talented local Boarding, give the gift of adventure and artisans and makers, the W.E. Made It learning something new. program partners, who are featured in The guide is also perfect for the wine, the guide, can help you find that perfect beer and spirit lover on your list. Check something for everyone on your list. out the EPIC Wineries and “Barrels Be it a significant other, your workplace The Gibson Gallery in Amherstburg, profiled in the Holiday Gift Guide, is Bottles & Brews” buyers guide. Secret Santa, the little ones, or the furry a one-stop shop featuring 20+ artisans with unique hand-made gift ideas. It features great ideas of locally made Photo courtesy of TWEPI. friends in your life, there is no shortage of products to gift, or serve, during your locally-made goods for purchase. know all the amazing entrepreneurs who call Christmas feast. And best of all — most of Wondering where to shop? Windsor Essex “home”. the local breweries and wineries are offering Look no further than their District Guides, And loving local does not have to stop with direct-to-your-door delivery, for free! featuring the varied shopping areas across the gift purchases! The Ontario Greenhouse The Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island region, which are ready to welcome you for the and Vegetable Growers are excited to Holiday Gift Guide is your one-stop reference day as you explore, shop and even grab a bite to feature Windsor Essex grown fruits and point when it comes to the holiday season. eat while you prepare for the holidays. vegetables in a selection of recipes designed Supporting local has never been more Make sure to check out the profiles on small to make your holidays delicious. However important (or easier) than this year. You are businesses included in conjunction with the you are celebrating this year, try something sure to find exactly what you are looking WindsorEssex Small Business Centre, and new for your family or friends and feature for — and likely more — when you visit: start crafting your shopping list as you get to the bounty of Essex County in your dishes. YQGholidays.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Twelve Holiday Traditions During A Pandemic Christmas

By Dave Hall

hristmas is normally a time for families to come together, enjoy a festive meal and good company, while making memories that will last a lifetime. But, there has been nothing normal about the past nine months and this Christmas season will likely see people gathering in smaller numbers and be less likely to travel to spend the holidays with distant relatives, as a result of ongoing COVID-19 restrictions. With many people facing an uncertain financial future because of employment issues, some of those same people will be scaling back on celebrations and finding simpler, less expensive ways to spend the season with family across Windsor and Essex County. So, in recognition of simpler joys, while making your own fun and enjoying quality time together with family and friends, Biz X magazine has put together a few suggestions for new holiday traditions to help keep the merry in Christmas. Tr adition #1 Start With An Elf On The Shelf A 15 year old tradition, Elf on the Shelf has become a popular way for parents and children to prepare for Christmas by doing good deeds while being “watched” by the Elf who flies away to the North Pole each night to report on activities to Santa and then returns to ‘hide’ in a different place. Written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, and illustrated by Coe Steinwart, the book tells a Christmas story written in rhyme and explains how Santa can tell who has been naughty or nice. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, these magical elves visit families then disappear on Christmas Eve until the next holiday season. The Elf comes in a special box and includes a hard cover picture book. It’s suggested that families don’t touch the elf for fear it will lose its magical powers, but they can speak to it and tell it all their holiday wishes, which are then reported back to Santa in time for Christmas.

Tr adition #2 Buy A Christmas Ornament For Your Family And All The Special People In Your Life When you’re searching for that special ornament to hang on your tree or to recognize someone who has helped you and your family during the pandemic, head to Girard & Co. Flowers & Gifts at

Close to 15 million of Santa’s Scout Elves have been adopted since°“The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition”°first made its way into our homes and hearts. Now, 15 years later, the pop culture phenomenon continues to bring joy to families during the holiday season. Photo courtesy of The Lumistella Company.

1371 Grand Marais Road West in the Yorktown Plaza (online at: GirardFlowers.com). Owner Alba Giglio has a large collection of themed Christmas ornaments to meet every occasion; and families are invited to shop together to choose the perfect one! “Ornaments are very popular, and they can recognize grandparents, grandchildren, weddings, newly-married couples, first child, special neighbours and just about anyone who has made a difference in your

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas inside Girard & Co. Flowers & Gifts. Located at 1371 Grand Marais Road West in the Yorktown Plaza, the shop has a large supply of decorations and gifts including speciality holiday-themed ornaments. Photo courtesy of Girard & Co. Flowers & Gifts. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

life during these difficult times,” says Giglio. “They’re mementos and more than just ornaments. They give people an opportunity to say something they might otherwise have difficultly saying.” They also give people a chance to thank neighbours from far away who may have helped your loved one get through the pandemic by providing meals or rides, sweeping a sidewalk, picking up necessities or shovelling snow. “It’s a great way to send a message of appreciation,” Giglio adds. Tr adition #3 Offer A Helping Hand To Those In Need If you are looking to help other families and people in need over the holidays, you might want to consider the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation’s (WECAF) “Holiday Program”. Mike Clark, Manager of Public Relations & Fund Development, emphasizes that the need is greater this year and the challenges also increased in attracting donations. “We provide help to more than 700 families and our holiday campaign is very important,” Clark comments. “In the past, hundreds of Windsor area residents, businesses, churches, schools and organizations participated in our adopt-afamily program, but with so many people working from home or not working at

THE PARENTING BIZ all, organizing those group activities has become a challenge.” With many people likely feeling uncomfortable doing their shopping themselves, more will fall on the shoulders of WECAF staff and volunteers to help make sure each family’s wishes are fulfilled. “We’re always open to accepting gift cards for groceries and clothing,” says Clark. “We’re also seeing some funds normally spent on holiday parties and office gatherings allocated to us as well, and we would welcome more groups to consider us this holiday period.” To donate to the “Holiday Program” or if you are interested in adopting a family, visit: WECAF.on.ca. Meanwhile at The Downtown Mission of Windsor, there are ample opportunities to lend a helping hand, says Rukshini Ponniah-Goulin, Director of Development. “We need volunteers to work in the kitchen, in the food bank, in the clothing bank, to help pick up fresh produce in the county and deliver it to more than 60 schools and organizations across the county,” explains Ponniah-Goulin. “We also need people to staff our distress line to help people going through emotional and isolation issues given the current circumstances.” In a normal year, more than 1,100 volunteers would be used to allow the mission’s work to run smoothly, but throughout the COVID-19 crisis, that number has been chopped to 300. “There are fewer opportunities, but we can still use the help,” Ponniah-Goulin mentions. “We require everyone to wear a mask and stay socially distanced because we want to make sure everyone stays healthy and safe.” Anyone interested in volunteering can email: racquele@downtownmission.com. For any other details about their services, “chari-tees” and history, see: DowntownMission.com.

might need to get started this holiday season. Planning a family baking day can be fun for everyone at a time when large gatherings are going to be limited by ongoing restrictions.

Tr adition #4 Celebr ate At Home Virtually With The Entire Family Cooking and baking at home exploded, during COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions and Reid Williams, Co-owner of Williams Food Equipment, expects it to be even busier over the holiday period. “It had the effect of revitalizing home cooking because people were seeking a hobby and baking was impacted the most,” indicates Williams. “There’s been an overall increase in appreciation for home cooking and baking.” At Williams Food Equipment there is a large selection of cookie cutters, spoons, pans, mixers and everything a home baker

Tr adition #5 Design Your Own Christmas Cards It’s time to turn off all devices, except for your holiday music play list, and get crafty! Katrina Rutter, Owner of Beatnik Art Supplies, has all the supplies needed to help families design their own homemade Christmas cards. “We have blank cards, paper, watercolours, brushes, pencils and everything else you can think of to make the family project run smoothly,” lists Rutter. It can also be fun to hand deliver cards locally, while taking in all the sights and sounds of Christmas decorations across the city.

Happiness is homemade baked goods — Christmas cookies and gingerbread houses that is! Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo /FomaA.

If everyone in your family is not able to get together, consider an online gingerbread house party to include other family members in different towns, provinces or countries. Be sure to make your dough, bake all the pieces and assemble your gingerbread house ahead of time. Then set a date to connect to your family via Zoom or Skype so everyone can decorate their gingerbread house with candy and icing, while chatting about past holidays together. And, if gingerbread is not your fancy, have everyone bake their favourite Christmas cookies instead — online all at the same time! No matter what you choose to bake or create, Williams recommends picking up what you need as soon as possible. “We noticed that suppliers were running out of products during the early stages of the pandemic and we anticipate the same may happen as Christmas approaches,” says Williams. “We’re trying to anticipate and plan further ahead, but the smart shoppers will get what they need early.” His store is located at 2150 Ambassador Drive in Windsor. For more information, go to: WilliamsFoodEquipment.com.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

If a picture paints a thousand words . . . a beautiful holiday card is priceless! Katrina Rutter, Owner of Beatnik Art Supplies is photographed in her Erie Street West studio painting the snowflakes for her original watercolour cards (finished pieces also shown below). Photos courtesy of Beatnik Art Supplies.

Last year, Beatnik offered classes to help people learn how to make their own cards, unfortunately they are unable to offer them this year because of COVID-19 concerns. “It’s disappointing, because they were really fun classes, but by next year, hopefully, we’ll be able to invite people in again to take classes,” she says. Rutter also sells polymer clay so that families can design and make their own Christmas ornaments. “We have everything from fine art supplies, for the accomplished artist, to paint-by-number sets for beginners and children looking to create their own artwork and memories,” states Rutter. Beatnik is located at 224 Erie Street West in Windsor and on Facebook search under “Beatnik Art Supplies” to learn how to make your own watercolour cards.

Tr adition #6 Cut Down Your Own Tree With hundreds of trees spread out over 20 acres of farmland to choose from, visitors to Bastien Tree Farm are sure to find exactly what they need to make their Christmas celebration perfect. “We believe more people are catching on to the idea of real trees, rather than artificial, because it’s so much better for the environment,” comments owner Ovide Bastien, who has operated the tree farm for 18 years. “We’ve been selling trees for the past 10 years or so because it takes that long for a tree to mature.” Bastien, who supplies a bow saw to his customers so they can cut down their own tree, points out that the farm has a large selection of fir, spruce and pine trees. There are more than 15,000 trees on the property at different stages of maturity, but many are not ready for cutting for five years or more. “We recommend a 6-1/2 foot tree because that’s plenty tall enough for most homes when you add the star at the top and the tree stand,” suggests Bastien. “They might look small in the great outdoors and that’s where people often make a mistake.” In the past, visits to the farm were a family event, but COVID-19 restrictions have forced Bastien to cancel the hayrides and cartoon cut-out photo opportunities this year. However, there will still be campfires and a concession stand, where social distancing will be maintained. “It’s all new (procedures) for everybody, but we’ll do our best to make sure everyone is safe and comfortable and having fun,” says Bastien. “Cutting down your own Christmas tree is always a great family event and the kids love it.” The tree farm, opening to the public this year on November 28, is at 13106 Concession Road 13 in McGregor. For hours and contact information refer to: BastienTreeFarm.ca.

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Tr adition #7 Support Local, Shop Small Christmas is almost here and now is the time to make your gift list and start shopping. Supporting local can be done at area retailers in person or with curbside pickup, and you can also shop local online at: ShopMyTown.ca, featuring a selection of small businesses on one website. Gather the family around the computer, get everyone a cup of hot chocolate and choose the gifts you like together with just one click of the mouse! This new local website lets you choose gifts for family, friends and co-workers, without leaving the comfort of your home. Among the products available from local merchants are: soap, books, tanning services, jewellery, shoes, t-shirts, popcorn, mushrooms, baking kits, artisan cheeses, artwork, art supplies for adults and children, oriental rugs, sunglasses, and pet gifts and accessories. Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island also has several options for shopping locally at brick and mortar stores in their annual Holiday Gift Guide, available online at: YQGholidays.ca. (See page 58 of this issue for more details!) Tr adition #8 Think Pr actical . . . Useful Gifts For All! Need the perfect gift that will be used and not put away to gather dust? Then consider purchasing a grocery box from Harvest Fresh Catering (HarvestFresh.ca) or a subscription-based service for a baking kit from Ani & Fabi. These useful gift ideas let the receivers choose what they like and assist families with meals and desserts all year long. Ani & Fabi is a local company that provides baking kits, recipes and dry ingredients to families seeking to try something different.

THE PARENTING BIZ And whereas this is an ideal option for those on your gift list, it’s something to consider for your own family for the rest of the entire year, as well. “We have a full range of Christmas products to help families bake their own gingerbread cookies, chocolate cranberry cookies and many others,” says Dominik Skrzypek, co-owner of Ani and Fabi along with Hanlu Li. The pair is also a Biz X Award recipient for “Outstanding New Business of 2018.” Once families choose their recipes, they will receive everything they need in a prepackaged kit — all they need to add are eggs and butter. “It’s a fun family activity especially around the holidays,” Skrzypek explains. “I’d suggest families jump on it pretty quickly so they can have a full range of recipes to choose from in preparation for the holidays.” For a gift idea or your own baking kit subscription, visit: AniAndFabi.com. Tr adition #9 Eat, Drink & Be Merry With family gatherings over the holidays restricted to smaller numbers than in the past, many people are expected to order or pickup smaller, more manageable meals,

from such places as The Pasta House. The business prepares healthy pasta options for customers to cook at home for their families. “We always offer party-size lasagna trays at both Thanksgiving and Christmas,” explains Pina Simone who has operated the business with husband Carm for the past 32 years. The Simones also offer lobster ravioli and lobster cannelloni for customers who prefer a seafood feast on Christmas Eve. Other items include gnocchi, different flavours of ravioli and manicotti trays. With restaurants trying to keep staff busy during the pandemic, many ordered ravioli and lasagna sheets and had staff make their own instead of ordering the finished product from The Pasta House. “It’s been very difficult because 50 percent of our business comes from restaurants, but at least we have the retail side, which has continued to go quite well,” she says. In addition to pasta selections, the couple also sells different olive oils and balsamic vinegars, so customers can make their own gift baskets for family and friends. “It’s all either local or imported from Italy and gift basket sales are always strong because they’re a unique gift,” adds Simone. Find The Pasta House at 465 Erie Street East in Windsor and at: ThePastaHouse.ca.

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At Ted Farron’s Gourmet Butcher Shop, Michelle Farron expects the Christmas season to follow the same pattern as Thanksgiving when people ordered fewer large turkeys and opted instead for smaller boneless turkey breasts or prime rib.

Let there be meat! At Ted Farron’s Gourmet Butcher Shop customers are ordering smaller turkeys, boneless turkey breasts or even prime rib because many families are hosting smaller holiday celebrations this year due to social gathering restrictions. Photo courtesy of Michelle Farron.

“With smaller gatherings, people don’t need as much food for their Christmas dinners,” Farron states. “Even those who ordered a turkey went with a 12 to 14 lb bird, which yields about four pounds of meat.” Farron adds that some of their Thanksgiving customers made extra

THE PARENTING BIZ food and dropped it off with family members who could not attend a large dinner. “There’s certainly a different set of traditions (due to COVID-19 restrictions) being developed, but the key is to be with as many family members as allowed,” she believes. Farron’s is located at 3838 McGregor Boulevard in south Windsor. Find out their current sales and available products under “Ted Farron’s Gourmet Butcher Shop” on Facebook. At Kings Bake Shop, owner Chelsea Zammit offers small, medium and large platters of Christmas cookies, including macaroons, sugar cookies, cupcakes and cookie sandwiches, all designed with a holiday theme. “We were so busy at Christmas last year that I forget how little sleep I had for about two weeks,” jokes Zammit. “I’m expecting to be just as busy this year.” Zammit acknowledges that there are limits to how many people can gather at Christmas, but they can offer platters to suit every family and every occasion, whether it is a family meal or a small office get-together. The bakery is located at 13 Main Street East in Kingsville. For more information, view: KingsBakeShop.com. Tr adition #10 Spend A Cozy Christmas Eve Around The Fire Need a unique holiday-themed decoration to kick start the holidays for a special family celebration? Look no further than The Treasure Nook in Belle River. Owner Sandy Pepper has everything you need to create a festive atmosphere for some good old-fashioned fun with the kids. Then all you have to do is enjoy a movie, sing a few Christmas carols, play board games, or read a holiday book, while you spend the night around the fireplace. “We have Christmas gnomes which

are a lot of fun,” says Pepper. “We also have a selection of Santas, Christmas globes, lanterns and tree ornaments to suit every taste.” Pepper and her staff spent two full days in mid-October unpacking dozens of boxes, but she cautions shoppers to shop early or run the risk of being disappointed. The store, at 588 Notre Dame Street, now encompasses 1,100 square feet, which is a vast increase from less than 500 square feet when the store opened five and a half years ago. Check the store’s Facebook page for their holiday updates and special activities. Tr adition #11 – Tripping The Light Fantastic Santa Claus parades are also an exciting and fun part of the holiday season and this year’s Leamington parade comes with a twist. In order to practice self distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, the parade this year is staged in Point Pelee National Park. (Please note there is no cost to enter). The floats will remain stationary and spectators can drive by in their vehicles, enjoying the lit-up entries, as well as the beauty of Canada’s most southern national park. “Every year, the community comes out in full force on the night of the parade and the tradition will continue, of course, with a few COVID tweaks,” says Chad Robinson, Leamington District Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade Chair. The parade, featuring floats, mascots, clowns, elves and Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, takes place November 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Get the latest information at: LeamingtonChamber.com). Spectators are invited to bring a donation for local food banks or a toy for the Toys for Tots drive. Children can also bring a letter for Santa and deposit it in a special mailbox. In Amherstburg, the annual “River Lights Winter Festival” (see: VisitAmherstburg.ca) in Toddy Jones Park and King’s Navy Yard

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Park, runs from November 14, 2020 to January 4, 2021. While some of the programming has been cancelled because of COVID-19 concerns, the lights will still shine brightly throughout the downtown at businesses and along the river. “‘River Lights’ has become a tradition for so many families in our region,” says Mayor Aldo DiCarlo. “We are grateful for the support of our community and our sponsors such as Enbridge and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island for continuing to believe in Amherstburg.” In addition, driving around to see holiday lighting and decorations on area homes and business should be on your agenda! Tr adition #12 Record Your Holiday Memories So They Last Forever No matter how you choose to celebrate this year, keep a camera close by for all the photo-ops. Another great idea is to use your phone to record a quick video of each family member answering a specific question. Sample questions could be: “What is your favourite holiday memory this year and from the past?” “What was the best gift you ever received?” Or “Name (and sing if they dare!) the Christmas song that really gets you in the festive spirit?” Recording new videos year after year, changing the questions and reviewing past videos each Christmas, as the kids grow older, is an everlasting memory that even a global pandemic can never take away from you. Believe in the magic of Christmas everyone . . . happy holidays!

May Your Home Be Filled With Joy And Love This Holiday Season

With measures still in place to stop the spread of the coronavirus and many staying home to stay safe, being with the family is now more important than ever.° This has been a year like no other and the holidays are a chance to relax, spend quality time with the family and celebrate!°Here are a few ideas to keep the kids busy, safe, and in the holiday spirit. Take A Holiday Light Tour Pile the kids in the car and drive around neighbourhoods to find the “Clark Griswold” of the area. Be sure to play your favourite holiday music and bring some hot chocolate. Maybe even pick up supper from a local restaurant!° Wreath Making Take the kids for a nature walk and gather evergreen branches, sticks, and pine cones. You can get foam or wire rings, or even cardboard to attach your greens. Finish with a handmade bow. Christmas Caroling You may not be able to visit your friends in their homes, but nothing is stopping you from standing outside their door and singing carols! Be sure to stay a safe distance away. If you do travel to visit relatives, or celebrate at a local eatery, please don’t drive under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

Season’s greetings and best wishes to all for the new year from the following community-minded businesses and organizations sponsoring this page . . .

https://performanceﬁre.ca :: (519) 997-3233

office: 519.979.9949 | website: TeamGoran.com

519-966-6200 www.habibhomes.com

https://839media.ca Phone: (519) 990-2700

www.wepridefest.com 226-348-3378

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THE PARENTING BIZ FROM THE BOOKSHELF “When I Look In The Mirror”

Local children’s author, Jacquelin Ihuwan, believes “All children deserve the opportunity to feel comfortable within their own skin. With the topic of race and ethnicity being more prevalent now than ever, it is important for these conversations to start at a young age, so that children may grow to appreciate one another for their similarities, as well as their differences.” She continues by stating, “As a parent, I want my children to understand who they are and where they come from. Children

are very observant and do not shy away from asking questions, regardless of how inappropriate they may be. They want to learn, and they want to understand the world around them. For this reason, I wanted to write a story that could be used as a tool by parents to introduce the topic of ethnicity and skin colour to their children.” Just released in September, Ihuwan’s book — “When I Look in the Mirror” — is a story about a little girl who is biracial and is questioned by other children as to why she does not look like her mother at all. This causes her to look at her own reflection and question the person she sees. It is a book that not only appeals to young children with its colourful pictures and catchy wording. but can also be used by adults to introduce deeper issues and important life lessons. According to Ihuwan, “I want parents to feel comfortable talking to their children about skin colour. Those conversations, especially at a young age, are an important

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Jacquelin Ihuwan is a secondary school teacher, currently living in Windsor, with her husband and two beautiful children. When she is not chasing her kids around, you may find her out running, working on various art projects, or spending time with family and friends. Photo courtesy of the author.

step in helping to teach children how to be sensitive to other’s feelings and to respect differences, which are two incredibly important values in the diverse world we live in.” Find “When I Look in the Mirror” on various online outlets, including Amazon and the publisher’s website:AustinMacauley. com/us/book/when-i-look-mirror. Connect with the author via her social media page on: Instagram.com/jsihuwan.

THE PARENTING BIZ HEALTH MATTERS

Get Your Flu Shot! It’s More Important Than Ever Supplied By The WECHU

nce again, flu season is upon us and getting the flu vaccine this year is extremely important due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Keeping people healthy and out of hospital are two reasons why medical experts recommend everyone aged six months and older should get a flu vaccine. Yearly, the flu results in 12,200 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths in Canada. Last year’s flu season saw 180 laboratoryconfirmed cases of influenza in Windsor and Essex County. Flu viruses are known to mutate, so a new customized flu vaccine is made each year.

What’s the difference between the flu and COVID-19?

The flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but are caused by different viruses. The flu is caused by influenza viruses and COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. They are both spread by breathing in air droplets of an infected person when they sneeze, cough, or talk, and can both be spread before symptoms occur. Based on what we know so far, symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 can be similar: fever, cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, headaches, and muscle pain/body aches. Since signs and symptoms are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference based on symptoms alone, and testing may be required to confirm. If you have any of the above symptoms, do not attend work or school, contact your healthcare provider and seek testing at a local COVID-19 assessment centre. If you are experiencing serious symptoms like difficulty breathing, or a very high fever, you should seek medical attention right away.

Who is most at risk?

Complications from catching the flu can include serious conditions like pneumonia, heart attack, and in some cases, death. The flu is a contagious virus that anyone can get. However, some individuals are more vulnerable to experiencing complications than others. These individuals include . . . • Babies under six months of age, because they are too young to get the flu shot and their immune systems are still developing. • Children under five years of age, because their immune systems are still developing. • People 65 and older, because their immune systems can be weaker and they’re more likely to have other health conditions.

Medical experts recommend that everyone aged six months and older should get a flu vaccine. Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/famveldman.

• Individuals that are pregnant, because their immune system, heart, and lungs are affected by the growing baby. • People with health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.

How can you protect yourself from the flu and prevent the spread of both flu and COVID-19 viruses? Getting the flu shot every year is an effective defence in fighting the flu. It’s recommended for people six months of age and older. The flu shot is proven to reduce the number of doctors’ visits, hospitalizations, and deaths related to the flu. Other measures to take include . . . • Wash your hands often with soap and water (if that’s not available, use hand sanitizer). • Cough/sneeze into a tissue or your elbow. • Stay home when you’re sick. • Clean and disinfect surfaces and shared items frequently. • Wear a mask and practice physical distancing when in public spaces.

Where can you get the flu vaccination?

Individuals and families can get the flu shot at no cost from their doctor or nurse practitioner, most walk-in clinics, and participating pharmacies. (*Note pharmacies can only give the flu shot to persons five years and older). In an effort to increase access to high dose flu vaccine recommended for those 65 years and older, seniors can now get a high dose flu shot at their healthcare provider and also at participating pharmacies. For more flu information and participating pharmacies, visit: WECHU.org/flu. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), in partnership with other°agencies°and health care providers, seeks to enable all Windsor and°Essex County residents to be as healthy as possible. The unit is located at 1005 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

THE WAY IT WAS

Trending Up . . . Ever Present Through The Tides Of Change By Andrea Grimes

Pictured are Lynne Dandy (about 18 months old) and her father Eric Dandy, receiving a Goodfellows Christmas newspaper from Detective Alton Parker (Windsor Police Department), December 18, 1954. Photo courtesy of Windsor Goodfellows.

he Great War changed everything and suddenly Canada seemed full of fear and unrest. WWI drove some families apart . . . yet, brought some together as they experienced those demanding times of sacrifice with optimism and courage. Our eager lads from the farms, and brothers, fathers and sons from the factories and offices throughout Windsor and Essex County, responded quickly to enlist because it was the right thing to do! Since its early days, Windsor has been recognized for setting the standard, implementing the advancement of social benevolence, especially during the early years of WWI when some wives and

mothers who once enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle were forced (for the first time in their lives) to rely on the generosity of our community. Knowing their children had breakfast before going to school and wore shoes without cardboard, far outweighed the humiliating stigma of social relief. Windsor’s founding fathers “made it their business” to do something to improve the lives of many people struggling to get through life, especially when the stains and strains of the Great War saw some of our Veterans returning home not knowing who they were. Again they rolled into action when WWII left children without their fathers and when

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that “F4”in strength tornado left some families homeless. When the 99-day strike meant the rent didn’t get paid, and again when the recession hit, there went the second income. When the unparalleled destruction of 9/11 closed our borders and most recently, when “planking the coronavirus curve” meant adhering to imposed social-distancing, they stepped into the breach, and now we know it! As the steadfast humanitarian fabric of our community, they make things happen by adapting to transformative social change. They are recognized for the exceptional contributions they’ve made (and continue to make) for individuals experiencing crisis as a result of unforeseen changing tides of life. Just for the record, they have been doing what they do best for the past 110 years and now we see it! “Windsor Goodfellows has been a constant and visible presence in our community for the past 110 years,” says Art Reid, President of Windsor Goodfellows. “Generations of some families were impacted by two world wars, the Great Depression, polio, tornados, floods, automotive strikes, the recession, and 9/11. During these challenging times of this pandemic, we are committed to remain on the frontlines helping individuals in need — be it the long term, or just to get through to the end of the month. The generosity of our community and unwavering support from our corporate sponsors provides the Windsor Goodfellows with the resources to continue to do what we do best . . . all year round.” And now we hear it. Windsor Goodfellows’ archives confirm that “In 1914, the Windsor Goodfellows Club published its first special newspaper edition; and 10 former Evening Record newspaper delivery boys, now Old Newsboys, hawked their papers on street corners, resulting in collecting just over $400 to fund their Christmas dinner campaign.” Angus Munro’s 1959 quote sums up the

Windsor Goodfellows’ hallmark philosophy of service: “The best of life and worth of it is not how much can I get for me, but what I have done to be neighbourly.” Local companies and organizations are supporting the 2020 newspaper drive with onsite distribution and money boxes outside storefronts and offices from November 26 to 28. At various locations, Windsor Goodfellows volunteers can accept hands free cash or cheque donations. For site locations or to e-transfer your donation, visit: WindsorGoodfellows.org. And now we have it!

“Christmas Kettle Campaign” This year, “home for the holidays” takes on a different meaning throughout our community. There are many individuals in our neighbourhoods who are struggling day in and day out just to meet life’s necessities. For many, for the first time in their lives, they have had to become reliant on the provision of social care through The Salvation Army. This year, The Salvation Army’s (SalvationArmyWindsor.ca) “Christmas Kettle Campaign” offers the option of making a donation with a debit or credit card simply by using the TipTap Touchless Terminal at various locations throughout Windsor. Just place the card in front of the designated amount to donate (there are three amount options) and the donation is sent. The Salvation Army Unit: Windsor Centre of Hope “Christmas Kettle Campaign” runs from November 19 to December 24, 2020 at 16 Kettle locations. This year’s fundraising goal is $350,000. Your financial support of The Salvation Army’s “Christmas Kettle Campaign” (which delivers a variety of services and programs throughout the greater Windsor area) not only speaks for itself, it speaks to bringing Christmas home for the holidays . . . in your name! 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 the 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. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

Let There Be Light With Garlatti Landscape OF THE MONTH

By Matthew St. Amand

Using cutting edge software and energy efficiency lighting, Sal Costante and his company, Garlatti Landscape aim to brighten Essex County businesses and homes, just like the Amherstburg house pictured. Their service provides a worry free way to deal with the hectic holiday season and keep their customers out of the cold. Photo courtesy of Sal Costante.

s the autumn days get darker in anticipation of winter, there is light at the end of the tunnel — energy efficient LED lights, that is. Garlatti Landscape is a full-service landscape and property management company that has been looking after homes and properties in Essex County since 1990. In addition, for nearly a decade they have been the Christmas Décor franchisee for Windsor Essex. What does this mean for their customers? “We have access to unique Christmas decorations that you can’t get anywhere else,” claims Sal Costante, Owner of Garlatti Landscape. “If a customer wants a large synthetic tree. like we see in Jackson Park, a six-foot-tall nutcracker, or oversized gift boxes like the ones at Somerset Mall (Michigan), we can get that for you.” It’s a far cry from the early days in April 1990 when Garlatti Landscape was a one-

man operation. With a single truck and a lone lawn mower, Dan Garlatti tended properties in the south Walkerville area. Every burgeoning business comes to a point where it either makes that leap to hiring extra workers or collapses beneath demand it cannot meet. Garlatti Landscape made that leap, expanding its crew and its customer base throughout Essex County. Costante joined the company in 2009 as a subcontractor and became a partner a few years later before buying the company entirely from Dan Garlatti. As the events of 2020 have affected virtually everyone, Garlatti Landscape has noticed an increase in calls about its Christmas lighting service. Costante reports that “This year, in particular, with everyone staying home. we’re seeing a spike in interest. People are spending money to dress up their homes for the holiday.”

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The “lighting season” begins in November. Several Garlatti customers celebrate Diwali, the Hindu “festival of lights”, which usually lasts five days and is celebrated during the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika (between late October and November), according to Encyclopaedia Britannica. “The people who want the lights for Diwali will then leave them up through the Christmas season,” he mentions. Garlatti Landscape has a remarkably high rate of customer satisfaction and retention for its Christmas lights side of the business. “We have homes all over the county, including Leamington and Tilbury,” Costante states. Customers enjoy the service because it is complete — Garlatti Landscape staff works with homeowners on the lighting design, and then installs high-quality lights and decorations not available in stores. When the season is over (just after the New Year), the Garlatti crew takes down the lights and decorations, cleans them and stores them for the next season. “Every design is custom,” Costante points out. “Before I even talk to the homeowner, just seeing the property, I start getting ideas. In the end, it all comes down to the homeowner, what they want. We tend to be conservative.” This helps avoid the Clark Griswold syndrome, as found in the infamous lighting of the Griswold home in Chevy Chase movie, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”. “We keep it simple,” Costante notes. “There’s a minimum cost to do the service. Many times, customers aren’t sure what they want, so we give them options.” This is done by using cutting-edge design software. “We take a photograph of the house,” Costante explains, “scale it into the software and provide the homeowner a virtual design, which is a photo-realistic rendering of what the lighting will look like on their home.” Garlatti Landscape is located at 8455 Broderick Road in LaSalle. For more information about their Christmas lighting options, or other services, visit their website: GarlattiLandscape.com.

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RENOVATIONS ARE COMPLETE! WE ARE NOW OPEN! Thank you to our valued customers for your patience during the renovation and your support this past year

CARRY OUT • DINE IN • CATERING

Kabobgy LaSalle 5848 Malden Rd. 519-969-3000 76 www.kabobgy.ca B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • N O V / D E C 2 0 2 0

Biz X magazine Nov Dec 2020

Articles inside

4. Innovation and entrepreneurship

3. The future of employment

Conclusion

1. Fiscal policy

About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce

2. Regulation

Summary of Recommendations