Biz X magazine Nov/Dec 2023

CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF LOCAL PUBLISHING

Year 26: Picture Perfect, 26th ANNUAL AWARDS TRIBUTE PLUS Milestone Achievements: 50 Years For Valente Real Estate And 100 Years For Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP Coxon’s Sales + Rentals (CSR) Limited; Tony Blaks Union Bakery; Chatham’s Centro Wood Fire Kitchen; Tecumseh Heritage Centre; The Little Red Door Gift Shop In Essex & LaSalle’s Banner Boys NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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Holiday Activities In The Region For Families

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

To celebrate our picture anniversary, the perfect reference is the world’s most famous painting. Every picture has a story to tell, and the mysterious smile on our Mona Lisa model is very intriguing. Does she or doesn’t she know who the 2023 Biz X Award recipients are? If you want to be in on the secret and learn the identity of the 213 nominees and 24 winners, then this is the edition you have been waiting for! PAGE 18 BIZ X MAGA Z I N E • N O V E M B E R / D E CE M B E R 2 0 2 3

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FOR BUSINESSES & PEOPLE IN WINDSOR, ESSEX COUNTY, PELEE ISLAND & CHATHAM KENT

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Read Now! MEDIA PARTNERs:

ANNUAL BIZ X AWARDS EDITION

Graphic by Rod Denis

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 Volume 26 • Issue 10

YEAR 26

PICTURE PERFECT 4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Christmas Is Coming, Time To Shop Local 6 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe Coming Together For A Centennial Celebration For the past 100 years the firm of Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP have “courted” the businesses and residents of our region, with the best professional legal services from their offices in downtown Windsor. Find out about their recent open house at their new location on Windsor Avenue and read a brief history lesson on how it all came to be.

Photo by Joe McParland.

9 Front Lines 12 Newsflash 14 Belle Vivante: Chatham’s Centro Wood Fire Kitchen Our writer Tracey Harding seems to have found her knight in shining armour . . . so okay, it’s a nutcracker instead! LOL! Our Belle Vivantes shopped at The Glasshouse Nursery & Garden Centre in Chatham, after dinner and drinks at nearby Centro Wood Fire Kitchen. Cheers to the holiday season and the magic of a perfectly crafted cocktail (or two) that the Belle Vivantes discover and report their findings back to you!

Photo by Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh.

16 Food For Thought: Tony Blaks Union Bakery 21 Motivational Quotes With Danny 52 Arms In The Neighbourhood: Banner Boys And A Sign 4 Success 54 Ask The Experts: Coxon’s Sales + Rentals (CSR) Limited 56 Hot Shots: The Northern National Collectors’ Convention 58 Tech Bytes: Online Shopping Advice For Consumers And Business Owners Alike 59 XX Files: Tanya Adamovic, The Little Red Door Gift Shop 60 The Parenting Biz: Christmas Lights & Hot Cocoa Nights It’s time to get your family in the holiday spirit and experience the magic of Christmas in Windsor Essex. The River Lights Winter Festival (pictured) in Amherstburg, taking place nightly from November 18 to January 8, is just one great example of a light display you won’t want to miss (and they have hot chocolate too!).

From parades, breakfasts with Santa, markets and more, area towns and the city of Windsor are ready to make your holiday merry and bright!

Photo courtesy of The Town of Amherstburg.

67 Festive Fun In Chatham Kent 68 The Way It Was: The Tecumseh Heritage Centre, Generations Of Families Preserve The French-Canadian Narrative . . . The Old Way 69 Biz Of The Month: Valente Real Estate’s Golden Anniversary

ON THE COVER — A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words — 18

For the 26th annual Biz X Awards edition, we celebrate our picture anniversary with a Picture Perfect theme. The gemstone associated with this anniversary is jade (hence the colouring of our model’s outfit) and the modern gift is artwork. In our opinion, the best image to make the point about this theme was our own version of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, as shown on the cover. Painted in Florence, Italy, sometime between 1503 and 1519 da Vinci’s artwork is the most famous painting in the world, but not just because of its artistic appeal.

Its fame is the result of many chance circumstances, including the theft of the painting in 1911 from the Louvre in Paris and the ensuing media frenzy that brought it worldwide attention. The identity of the portrait’s sitter is also very intriguing, as is her smile. Although many scholars believe that the painting depicts Lisa Gherardini, the wife of a Florentine merchant, the sitter has never been conclusively identified. The mystery of the Mona Lisa’s real identity may never be known for certain, but in our case, we are ready to reveal the 2023 Biz X Award winners!

COVER MODEL: Coincidentally, our model is local artist Sara Guzzetti. Her passion for art started at a very young age back in her hometown of Calabria, Italy. Currently a High School Visual Arts teacher, Guzzetti also works at St. Clair College as a Fashion Illustration Instructor and trains runway models for its Fashion Design program. She has viewed the original painting of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre in Paris and it instantly became one of her favourite works of art. If you are interested in seeing some of her own original works on her social media page — “The place where Fine Art meets Fashion Design and Makeup Artistry” — check: Instagram.com/guzzetticreations.

PHOTOGRAPHER/ARTWORK: Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com) BIZ X MAGA Z I N E • N O V E M B E R / D E CE M B E R 2 0 2 3

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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!

Olive sits in disbelief. Her Christmas wish has come true as the Lions have won a few games this season!

Luna is trying hard to stay awake. She wants to surprise Santa Paws.

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

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Give The Gift Of Local This Holiday Season

By Deborah Jones I know I write this all the time, but seriously, where does the time go? It seems to just fly by faster now. Another year is right around the corner.

Everyone seems to be working harder to pay their bills, which seem to get higher and higher in price. The good thing is we are all still here and ready to do business. And that’s always something to celebrate!

That’s why at the end of each year, we publish our annual Biz X Awards edition.

We aim to recognize the leading businesses, organizations, professionals and events locally in the region that are doing a great job. And we know our nominee list for 2023 will impress you once again, as usual.

We hope you can support our nominees, along with our advertisers, as it is important to support local so that we have a strong community, work force, and lots of unique choices for goods and services.

The November/December issue that you are reading right now — not only pays tribute to our picture anniversary (year 26) and award nominees as I just mentioned — but it is also our holiday book.

In The Parenting Biz section you will learn about all kinds of upcoming events your family may wish to attend. As well, I want to fill you in on a great guide to local holiday shopping in-person and online options.

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) has launched their fifth annual Holiday Gift Guide on: YQGHolidays.ca.

It features 32 pages packed with 300+ artisans, makers, retail locations and small businesses, including 45% that are brand new, to be featured in the yearly publication.

This year’s guide is delivered by Canada Post to 75,000 Windsor Essex homes.

Print editions can also be picked up at locally-sourced retail stores, the TWEPI

office, or information kiosks, or a digital edition of the Holiday Gift Guide is available on the website noted above.

In addition to the shopping ideas, TWEPI also features its own Holiday Events Guide and a large list of festive entertainment to add to your calendar this season. Readers can also flip through locally sourced recipes, tips for New Year’s Eve fun, a Barrels Bottles & Brews Trail craft brews, and spirits guide, local wine pairing ideas and more.

So shop, eat and enjoy local this holiday season — whether it be a purchase of an actual product for a gift, a takeout order from a restaurant, attending an event, or perhaps taking an art class or music lesson for a unique experience.

Happy spending and Happy New Year to all our readers, advertisers, suppliers, friends and families. May 2024 be your best year yet!

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Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP Celebrates 100 Years In Downtown Windsor Photos By Tina Huynh

By Joe McParland

T

he full-service law firm, Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP recently hosted an open house to celebrate their 100 year anniversary as a law firm in downtown Windsor.

The reception also provided the opportunity to introduce their new location at 525 Windsor Avenue, Suite 200 — finally — as an earlier introduction was delayed by the restrictions of COVID-19.

The firm moved from their previous 16-year downtown location at Westcourt Place (251 Goyeau Street), after a fire took place in the basement garage of the highrise building on November 12, 2019.

The renovation work for their new home at the Windsor Avenue building commenced in the fall of 2020 and was completed with the firm’s occupancy in April 2021.

The entire second floor of the building — approximately 10,000 square feet — was completely remodelled and an elevator was installed. General contractors, Rosati Construction retained and managed all sub-trades and worked closely with the building’s owner. The approximate construction cost was $1 million!

Finally, in fall 2023, it was time to celebrate the hard work of local suppliers and the firm’s success, with an open house celebration on October 5.

The well-attended event included the firm’s clients, members of the Essex Law Association, court administration partners, Superior Court Justices, local politicians, former colleagues, and family and friends.

The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association presented the firm with a Certificate of Recognition in honour of its leadership and commitment to excellence, business growth, and success in the city centre.

City of Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens was also in attendance and thanked the firm for their 100 years of outstanding presence in the community, particularly in the downtown.

Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP is one of the three oldest law firms in Windsor.

The oldest firm is Bartlet & Richardes LLP, which was established in 1887, five

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Taken on October 5 at the Open House event for the new location, current partners hold up framed portraits of the firm’s founding partners. From left: Jeffrey W. Nanson; Thomas Robert Porter (Max N. Mousseau portrait); Jennifer Simpson Rooke (Armando F. DeLuca portrait); Ilias Kiritsis (Leon Z. McPherson portrait); Richard Lee Pollock, and Zuzana Szasz (Walter H. Prince portrait).

years before the town of Windsor gained status as a city in 1892. They were an original tenant of the iconic Canada Building at Park Street and Ouellette Avenue, since 1930.

As a result of redevelopment plans for the building, they relocated in December 2020 and took possession of their new office at 2565 Ouellette Avenue, Suite 100.

The second oldest law firm in Windsor is the McTague Law Firm LLP, founded downtown in 1920. In 1981, the firm’s partners purchased land at 455 Pelissier Street and constructed their current law office.

McTague Law Firm LLP edges out

To our friends at Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince:

CONGRATULATIONS on your incredible anniversary!

An exterior shot of the firm’s building at 525 Windsor Avenue. The approximate construction cost was $1 million for all renovations! Along with the fresh, functional new working space inside Suite 200, the project included a convenient elevator from the parking garage to the second-floor law firm offices.

Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP by three years in reaching the centennial mark in 2020.

Like most law firms, Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP is the result of various mergers throughout their evolution and growth.

It all started in 1923 when the McPherson, Prince & Geddes Law Firm was founded

by Norman J. McLarty, Q.C. and Gordon L. Fraser, Q.C.

According to their website history, shown on: MousseauLaw.com, in 1934 McLarty moved to Ottawa as the Secretary of State in the Cabinet of Mackenzie King.

Leon Z. McPherson joined the firm in 1945 and, upon the death of McLarty, the firm name became Fraser & McPherson.

In 1955, Walter H. Prince joined the firm as an associate, followed by Hugh B. Geddes in 1958.

On April 1, 1965, a new partnership

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RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

Congratulations Mousseau Deluca Mcpherson Prince on 100 years!

The Sechopoulos Group of RBC Dominion Securities is pleased to recognize a major milestone of one of our key partners: 100 years of excellence and service to the community. Congratulations!

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2023 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 23_90621_MT6_012

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was formed under the name, McPherson, Prince & Geddes.

The Mousseau, DeLuca, Dinham, Porter & Pollock Law Firm was originally founded in 1961 by Max N. Mousseau, Q.C. In 1966, Edward J. Dube and Armando F. DeLuca partnered with Mousseau, and the firm became known as Mousseau, Dube, DeLuca.

The two individual firms headed by Mousseau and McPherson, merged on January 1, 2001, as Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP. The current partners of the firm are Thomas R. Porter, Richard L. Pollock, Ilias Kiritsis, Jeffrey W. Nanson, Jennifer S. Rooke and Zuzana Szasz.

In 2023 the firm expanded with the addition of senior solicitors John P. Corrent and John Macri, who join a corporate, wills and real estate team headed by partners Porter and Kiritsis.

Pollock and Nanson lead a civil litigation department, which includes associate lawyers Joseph DeLuca, Jonathan Wiesenthal, Mitchell Witteveen and Bahaar Chaudhry.

The family law department is comprised of partners Jennifer Rooke, Sue (Zuzana) Szasz and junior associate, Amanda Tubbs.

In total there are 13 lawyers and 16 support staff, including licensed

paralegals. They specialize in a wide range of legal practice areas, including but not limited to, corporate, wills, estate planning, real estate law, taxation, commercial and general litigation, land development, municipal law, and family law.

Their institutional clients include the Director of Public Prosecutions (Canada), the Town of Amherstburg, and the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society.

“Our firm’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a respected pillar of the legal community is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our lawyers and staff over the years,” says Porter, Senior Partner.

As Mousseau DeLuca McPherson

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Mousseau DeLuca McPherson Prince LLP is comprised of 13 lawyers and 16 support staff, including licensed paralegals. Shown from left are: (Back Row) Jonathan Wiesenthal, Joseph R. DeLuca, Jeffrey W. Nanson, Richard Lee Pollock and Ilias Kiritsis.

(Middle Row) Mitchell Witteveen, Thomas Robert Porter, John Macri, John P. Corrent, Bahaar Chaudhry and Bianca Demian (articling).

(Seated): Amanda Tubbs, Jennifer Simpson Rooke and Zuzana Szasz.

Prince LLP embarks on its second century, it remains dedicated to upholding the values and principles that have been the foundation of its success.

“As we celebrate our centennial year, we take pride in the significant milestones we’ve achieved and look forward to continuing to serve our clients with the same passion and commitment that have defined our firm for the past century,” comments Porter.

Along with their dedicated suppliers and clients, Biz X magazine congratulates the firm for their 100 years of dedicated, committed and professional service to our region.

We all thank them for their important presence in Windsor’s downtown centre.

FRONTLINES Anthony (Tony Sr.) Pupatello is the 2023 recipient of the prestigious Italian of the Year Award and will be honoured at an event held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor.

The event is hosted and organized under the Giovanni Caboto Club in collaboration with other affiliated Italian community organizations and cultural societies, including the Ciociaro Club, Fogolar Club, Roma Club and the Italian Consulate.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Giovanni Caboto Scholarship Fund that pledges funds to the students attending post-secondary schools in Ontario.

The Italian of the Year Awards are over 40 years old and are awarded annually, through a carefully vetted selection committee and processes, to a person within the Windsor Essex community who best exemplifies his or her Italian heritage and cultural identity.

Highly respected members of the local community support this nomination through Letters of Support submissions and are backed, to a greater extent, by the Italian community at large.

The winner demonstrates lifelong

efforts and service to support the entire local community in areas of professional service, humanitarian volunteership, and reaching career-related milestones in his/her professional life.

The 2023 recipient, 69 year old Pupatello, has always been proud of his Italian heritage and over the years has promoted its culture and his deep roots.

Born in Windsor in 1954 — the son of Giuseppina and Salvatore (Sam) Pupatello — Tony married his high school sweetheart Catherine and together they created a beautiful family: Tony Jr. and his wife Christine, daughter Tanya and husband Steve and grandchildren Brielle and Luc. While working alongside his father Sam and Uncle Vinicio (Vince) Sr. and his partner Fabio (Vince’s son), Pupatello & Sons Ltd. construction company has flourished over the years as a family owned and operated business.

Tony Sr. has been involved in the Windsor industrial, commercial and institutional construction sector as a highly respected general contractor, for 50 years.

His company — now in its third generation — is set to celebrate its 65th year

in business in 2025 — and has recently been awarded a tender bid on the high profile Assumption Church restoration project.

(Refer to: PupatelloConstruction.com) Tony Sr. is also a long time member and served in various prominent positions for the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association (CIPBA), the Windsor Construction Association (WCA) and remains an active member of the Caboto Club.

He currently sits on the board of Ambassador Huron Villa, a non-profit housing corporation.

If you would like to attend the Italian of the Year banquet in January, find more information on: CabotoClub.com under the upcoming events section.

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FRONTLINES

New CROSSROADS Historical Guide Connects Users To Past And Present

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island recently launched the CROSSROADS Historical Guide, a digital pass connecting users with 50+ present day historical points of interest in Windsor, Essex County and Pelee Island.

“To understand our region’s diverse and unique culture of today, we need to connect with the past to learn more about what and who shaped it,” states Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI).

“The CROSSROADS Historical Guide highlights attractions that will help tell the story of the events which sparked change and progress, and the legacy left by pioneers, trailblazing innovators, collaborators, and heroic leaders, who, to this day, have inspired us and all of our communities.”

On: VisitWindsorEssex.com/crossroads, users can register for the free pass, a hand-held guide easily accessible through a smartphone to guide them to the 50+ highlighted destinations with historical importance to the region.

Whether it’s by car, bike, or foot, CROSSROADS can provide insights into the

hallowed grounds of Windsor Essex, while connecting users with current tours, activities, programming, events, and additional attractions and entertainment options adjacent to the attractions.

Selected locations in the pass also feature unique facts, photos, and augmented video elements showcasing the past and present of each location.

Categories of attractions in the guide are all encompassing, and help tell the rich history that we have played in Canadian history, including . . .

Agriculture and French history, including the Benoit House and Sandwich Windmill Automotive, including the Canadian Aviation Museum and Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village Black history, including the Amherstburg Freedom Museum and John Freeman Walls Historical Site Indigenous, including Chimczuk Museum and Point Pelee National Park Prohibition, including the Canadian Club Brand Centre and Cooper Court Motel

The War of 1812, including Fort Malden National Historic Site and Maidstone Bicentennial Museum Users will also have the opportunity to check in as they explore each attraction to earn points towards future contests, giveaway swag and more. No downloading is required to participate.

Featured locations were selected with the assistance from local experts and from members of TWEPI’s Regional Tourism Committee representing all local municipalities, highlighting locations that have historically significance and vanished settlements.

Additional locations will be featured on the pass as the program continues to expand.

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With the CROSSROADS Historical Guide you can discover a historic treasure — the Fort Malden National Historic Site in Amherstburg — grab a selfie and witness musket demonstrations. (Please note the site has seasonal opening and closing dates). Photo courtesy of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH ON THE MOVE Established in 2021, Windsor’s AfrikEmpire Inc. is a product of a globally spread team, black-owned company, and Canadianbased Africans. The retail business is focused on promoting African culture through authentic fashion, arts and crafts, jewellery and accessories, and other products that trace their origin back to Africa. Previously located at Devonshire Mall, owners Ayobami and Oluwakemi Ojo recognized the need to expand to serve their customers better and relocated the store in November 2023 to Tecumseh Mall, 7654 Tecumseh Road East. Stop by to see them soon or embrace the rich African experience they offer at the click of a button by shopping online on: AfrikEmpire.ca.

Connecting Windsor-Essex (CW-E) appointed Joanne Soave as its Chief Executive Officer, effective September 25, 2023.

Soave comes to CW-E from WaveDirect Telecommunications Ltd., where she served as Chief Operating Officer.

Previously, she worked at Kelcom Wireless as Director of Sales and Marketing for six years, and in business development as a Corporate Account Manager for 11 years.

“In my private sector Joanne Soave, new CEO roles, I have worked of Connecting Windsorclosely with CW-E for Essex. Photo courtesy of some 15 years,” Soave Joanne Soave. notes. “This is a very natural fit for me.” Her volunteer involvement has included chairing fund development on the Board of Directors of Big Brothers Big Sister of Windsor Essex, and as a founding member of the Women of Windsor Mentorship Collaborative. Soave states: “I’m very excited to be here with Connecting Windsor-Essex. Along with driving top-notch connectivity to the region, we will help to build a training and up-skilling regime in highdemand fields like information technology and cybersecurity, to support Windsor Essex’s economic diversification for the global market, along with so many other opportunities for organizational transformation and growth.”

CW-E is a non-profit organization representing a consortium of more than 40 member companies, associations, councils, and other organizations in Windsor Essex. What began as an information technology project, focused primarily on building an extensive high-speed fibre optic network that would bring world-

The City of Windsor recently honoured four recipients to recognize excellence in long-time heritage stewardship and/or recent well-done conservation work, through the presentation of its annual Built Heritage Awards and heritage designation plaques to new designated heritage properties. The following projects were recognized for their history, conservation and stewardship for 2023: (1) 787 Ouellette Avenue, Tessonics Inc. building (former Windsor Utilities Commission): Roman and Elena Maev (Tessonics Inc.); Passa Architects (Joseph Passa) and Alliance Contractors (Chris Weller). (2) 1958-1998 Wyandotte Street East, Strathcona building: Rosati Group (Tony Rosati, Nick Rosati, and Vince Rosati Jr.). (3) 1167 Mercer Street, James L. Dunn The Tessonics Inc. building, Public School (former a 2023 Built Heritage International Playing Awards winner. Photo Card Co.): Greater courtesy of Passa Architects.

Essex County District School Board; J.P. Thomson Architects Ltd. (Colin McDonald, Adam Wakulchik and Mark Beaulieu); Haddad Morgan Associates (Will Tape) and the Fortis Group (Joe Maertens). (4) 455 Giles Boulevard East, Windsor Grove Cemetery markers: Ontario Ancestors, Essex Branch Cemetery Team (Pat Clancy, David Hutchinson and Rosemary Lunau) and Windsor Grove Cemetery (Tony Andary). Watch the video compilation of this year’s recipients on: YouTube.com/watch?v=dN6CR9MMqIY. Congrats to Souq Lebanese Grill, 1-2651 Howard Avenue, Windsor on being selected as Tripadvisor 2023 Travelers’ Choice Award winner! The award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great traveller reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. “We are incredibly honoured to receive this award, placing us in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide,” expresses Ghasan Bassiso, Souq Owner and Operator.

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class connectivity to several of the region’s leading institutions, has expanded to provide services for businesses and, especially in under-serviced rural areas, residents who want access to high-speed internet. For more information visit: CW-E.ca.

HALL OF FAME

“As a locally owned and family-run establishment, this recognition holds special meaning for us. It reaffirms our commitment to providing the Windsor community with the best and freshest Lebanese cuisine at affordable prices. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our guests for their continuous support and positive feedback.” Founded in 2018, Souq offers dishes such as fattoush, tabouli, hummus, shawarmas, juicy kabobs, rice bowls and shareable platters. Discover the full menu and order online on: SouqYQG.ca.

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (VisitWindsorEssex.ca) Chief Executive Officer Gordon Orr has earned the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) 2023 Tourism Industry Award of Excellence’s Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is presented to an individual that has made significant contributions to the development and promotion of the tourism industry, and established a visible, long-term record of accomplishment that merits special attention.

According to Christopher Bloore, President and CEO of TIAO: “In Gordon Orr, we have a recipient who is the living embodiment of someone who has made a profound contribution to the Ontario tourism industry over a prolonged period.”

Orr has been in the Gord Orr, TIAO 2023 tourism and hospitality Tourism Industry Award industry for over 30 of Excellence’s Lifetime years, including roles Achievement Award recipient is pictured during such as the Director of the 2023 Ontario Tourism Convention Marketing Summit in Toronto on (1996), then Managing October 24. Photo courtesy Director (2003) of the of Tourism Windsor Essex Convention & Visitors Pelee Island.

Bureau of Windsor, Essex County & Pelee Island, which solidified him in the lead position of Chief Executive Officer (2011) for Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island.

Orr himself says; “I want to thank TIAO for bestowing upon me this honour. I am grateful for the spotlight this recognition shines on my team, our organization and the region I love.

I appreciate this award beyond measure, and I am forever indebted to all those who have a hand in any level of success I may have achieved along the way.” As a good friend to Biz X and its staff, we want to congratulate you also on your many achievements Gord, and wish you continued success in the future!

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BELLE VIVANTE Libations and culinary experiences to curate your beautiful life.

(especially the linoleum that looks like tile).

Centro opened four years ago, just before the pandemic and has managed to survive and thrive.

They have an extensive wine list, craft beer selection, trendy cocktails, great music and friendly staff (like our server Shane). We can see why the four owners (who wish to remain anonymous) only need to open Thursday to Sunday. (Reservations can be made either by phone or online at: CentroChatham.com).

Getting back to our visit, a favourite feature of ours is a picture of a rooster that someone has extended onto the brick, which you can see in the Cocktails picture, along with the drinks we sampled. (From the left). . .

After enjoying a few holiday drinks and a delicious meal at Centro Wood Kitchen, our Belle Vivantes Sherrilynn Colley Vegh (left) and Tracey Harding head to The Glass House Nursery & Garden Centre for a little (or in their case, a lot!) of Christmas shopping.

Centro Wood Fire Kitchen . . .

Love At First Bite Story And Photos (unless marked) By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh & Tracey Harding

D

id you ever go to a restaurant and order the same thing EVERY SINGLE TIME? You know what we are talking about — it’s the penne at Spago or the fish and chips at O’Maggio’s Kildare House.

The first time you order these items you hit it out of the park and then never seem to try something else.

You just know that it’s love at first bite and you have already found the best item on the menu for your palate.

Well, Centro Wood Fire Kitchen, located at 71 St. Clair Street in Chatham, has a Honey Butter Chicken Sandwich with parmesan garlic fries that is pure perfection.

How can you miss with buttermilk fried chicken, granny smith apples, local honey butter, arugula, smoked gouda and garlic aioli? We haven’t had fries this good outside of France as they are equally addictive, crisp

thin Pommes Frites with parmesan and garlic aioli dipping sauce.

Yes, we have cheated on our favourite chicken sandwich! However this was only to steal a bite from our friend’s plate to sample the pizza (The Bee Sting 2.0 and Twisted Pineapple), Wood Fired Brussels Sprouts, Bang Bang Cauliflower and whatever else we could politely scavenge without altering our standing order.

When you first walk into Centro you feel “The Vibe” and know you’re coming back to show off your find to friends.

You don’t know whether to look at the décor or the food on everyone’s plates as both are calling out for your attention.

Also noteworthy is the table set with mismatched glasses and place-settings elegantly shabby chic, a to-die-for standing brass lamp and bathrooms worthy of photos

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Signature Cocktails taken against the Rooster backdrop inside Centro from left: Red Autumn Sangria, Cloud Lily Sour and Black Cranberry Mule.

Red Autumn Sangria: This spicy sangria starts with Malbec that creates the deep rich foundation and balanced with the sweetness of apricot brandy and almond liqueur. Sparkling soda and apple cider add the finishing touch. The garnishes of cranberries and orange add to it to create a holiday worthy aroma. It is like drinking a cold, refreshing mulled wine.

Cloud Lily Sour: This beauty starts with Empress Gin, blended empress tea, butterfly pea blossom and carefully selected botanicals to create this elegant gin. Black raspberry liqueur and orange liqueur are added in perfect balance. Every component

Centro’s cozy chic vibe will keep you coming back for more! Photo courtesy of Centro Wood Fire Kitchen.

is a balance of sweet and tart. Lemon juice and simple syrup continue to add to the complexity. Cloud Lily is finished with whipped egg whites as a traditional sour is made. This drink could give the Cosmo a run for its money.

Black Cranberry Mule: Another drink for the holiday list begins with vodka mixed with cranberry juice and black raspberry liqueur. It is balanced with lime juice and

ginger beer with garnishes of lime, cranberry and rosemary. Picture yourself curled up by the fire on a snowy night sipping this jewel.

After our incredible dinner we decided to walk it off at The Glasshouse Nursery & Garden Centre (it’s 50,000 sq. ft.) for a few Christmas gifts and ornaments, at 56 Creek Road (GlasshouseNursery.ca).

Inside you will see spectacular holiday displays, clothing, gifts, foodie items and unique indoor/outdoor living décor. We tried to keep to the ratio of two to one (two gifts for others and one gift for us) although one of us might have interpreted that backwards as the shopping is that good!

Then we headed to the Gentry Manor (9 Park Street; GentryManor.com) which was featured in our column in September 2023.

It’s a good thing we only sampled three delicious cocktails at Centro beforehand or we may have spent even more!

That’s okay though as Gentry Manor has a sign that reads: “For $4.95 we will give you a receipt that matches what you told your husband you paid for it.” LOL! Chatham definitely has lots to offer from amazing drinks and fine/casual dining to speciality shops with unique gift ideas.

If you are planning to visit soon keep in mind Centro is always packed, so we recommend reservations.

The “Worth the Drive” Honey Butter Chicken Sandwich with parmesan garlic aioli fries.

This will help so you don’t forget and show up on a Tuesday like we did. As you just might be standing at the door in anguish crying: “But I drove all the way from Windsor just for your Honey Butter Chicken!”

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh has travelled to over 50 countries exploring what the world has to offer in food, wine, music, art, and fashion.

She is a community leader, journalist, business owner, music manager, former educator, Chief Communications Officer, and Athena Award recipient. Tracey Harding has deep roots in southwestern Ontario, but has wined, dined and lived in many countries. She has worked in fashion, real estate/décor, hospitality and food service/tour industries and is an awardwinning amateur cook and a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 1 Sommelier.

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© Can Stock Photo/Kurhan

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

THIS ISSUE FEATURES…

Tony Blaks Union Bakery 4081 Tecumseh Road East 1030 Walker Road, Windsor

CELEBRATING

50 YEARS

By David Clark

A

lthough it has changed hands over the years since April 11, 1973, one of the most recognizable food purveyors in Windsor/Essex County is Tony Blaks Union Bakery, formerly Union Bakery.

This is the 50th anniversary year for this eastern European-inspired traditional bakery, which includes four owners — Mike Smilkovich, the original owner, then his daughter Boga Petko ran it, and later she sold it to Slobodan Todorovic, around 2010.

The fourth owner is present Owner and Operator, Tony Blak who took over the reins as the new principal of the business on February 1, 2018, alongside his children, Owner and Operators Peter Blak III and daughter Stefani Blak-McMahon, to make it truly a family affair.

Peter is the Assistant Manager who takes care of daily overall production and takes Tony’s place when absent. Stefani is the Burek Supervisor taking care of burek production, as well as special occasion baking.

Coming from years of baking in his background, many family members

before him also operated a bakery or were employed in the industry.

In particular, Tony has found inspiration from his family in the early days, including his grandfather Peter Blak I who opened Blak & Sons Bakery in Windsor back in 1918. Prior to this he was the main baker at the finest Hotel in Warsaw, Poland — The Bristol. At a later date, his father Peter Blak II became involved in the business and worked at Blak & Sons as well.

“At the Langlois Avenue location that my grandfather built, as a child I would sit for hours and look in the window appreciating the smell of fresh bread coming through and watching the bakers at work,” recalls Tony. “My father, who worked there, had a kind heart and never refused to give a loaf of bread to people who were hungry.

My family hired people regardless of their race, colour or creed. Yes, we run a business, but we always put people before profit, he would say.”

Today, the original Tony Blaks Tecumseh Road location comes with the newest incarnation, the satellite operation at The City Market.

Looking back pre-Tony Blaks Union Bakery, the family business was Blak & Sons Bakery (circa 1918) where Peter Blak ran a hugely popular baking business with son Peter Blak II, from their Langlois Avenue location.

Photo courtesy of Henry Blak.

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With Owner Tony Blak now at the helm, their day begins at 2 a.m. mixing doughs from scratch using a different sour dough starter for all their breads and buns. They use hard wheat flour from the Canadian Prairies in most breads, and local whole wheat flour, made from wheat grown in Essex and Kent counties, which is milled in Tecumseh by Chana Food Products. Photo courtesy of Shawn Harris.

Both are full service bakeries, featuring all of the essential baked goods you require, while featuring the basics and the more extravagant. Some of the tasty offerings include the main four categories: bread, rolls and buns, pastries and burek.

“Our most popular bread is the Vienna, where creating it is called the Vienna process, making for a larger loaf and a thinner crust and soft interior,” indicates Tony. “Additionally, there are many assorted rye breads, including the plain, caraway, dark, marble and Russian style. Whole wheat is also a staple food. As bread is the staff of life, our main focus will always be offering oven-fresh artisan bread at the best price possible.”

Another specialty of the house are the strudels. A couple of favourites include the Poppy Seed (see accompanying photo) and Cherry varieties. The Poppy Seed is made from rich egg dough, stretched very thin. For the Cherry, they use laminated dough, rolled out very thin — this pastry is vegan.

Some of the pastries offered are perfect for those with a sweet tooth, including Vanilla Custard Squares and a variety of cannoli (cream, lemon, custard and ricotta).

Other occasional special baked treats are Danish pastries, chocolate cinnamon baked donuts, and honey cakes.

As the holiday season approaches, there are additional offerings, including a Polish bread called Paska Easter and Christmas.

Also, English fruit cake, Dresden Stollen, and the New Orleans king cake (see accompanying photo).

Before lent, they make Polish baked paczki and during lent, they offer the popular hot cross buns.

HOME OF THE ANGRY HAWAIIAN™ Baking is synonymous with the holiday season and Tony Blaks Union Bakery brings out all the treats, including the colourful and tasty New Orleans King Cake.

Photo courtesy of Tony Blak.

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How about soft pretzels from scratch or a dozen rolls or buns all year round for those family dinners? It’s all good!

With just a click to get you going, it all starts at the website: BlaksUnion.com where you can shop online by placing your order at least two days in advance.

Additionally, you can shop at either of the two locations and curbside too. Delivery in town is free for orders over $50, or in the county at a $50 per hour charge. Also, you can have your order shipped across the U.S. and Canada, but rates may vary.

The Poppy Seed Strudel is equipped with wheat, sugar, salt, canola oil, eggs, yeast, malt and a plethora of poppy seeds to liven it up. Photo courtesy of Zaklina Soldat.

“We are very proud to be the latest owner of this 50 year old run of Union Bakery, which has enjoyed a stellar reputation of offering freshly baked goods made in the Fontainebleau neighbourhood of Windsor,” Tony expresses. “Our friendly staff is here to cater to your every need, ensuring you leave with the most delicious oven-fresh treats.”

To view their hours of operation and scrumptious photos of their products, check: Facebook.com/TonyBlaksBread.

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BIZ X MAGA Z I N E • N O V E M B E R / D E CE M B E R 2 0 2 3

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Award Write-ups By Rebecca Wright & Jim Murphy

26TH ANNUAL BIZ X AWARDS TRIBUTE

YEAR

26 PICTURE PERFECT

T

Artist Debbie Kay created this jade version of The Starry Night for our Picture Perfect awards theme. Can you see the golden Biz X Award in the skyline? We chose to highlight Kay’s artwork as, back in the summer, she and fellow artist, Maryam Safarazadeh, organized The Van Gogh Remix Exhibition after Windsor’s Van Gogh immersive exhibit was abruptly cancelled. Partnering with Shō Art, Spirit & Performance Centre (where Kay is an associate) they presented a never-before-seen collection of local art that paid homage to the great Vincent van Gogh. Twenty of their artist friends were challenged to take one of his famous paintings and remix it into their own style. Kay is also a past Biz X Award winner in 2018 for Artist of the Year. Her acrylic paintings have been shown in many art galleries throughout southwestern Ontario. Her influences include Frida Kahlo, Mark Rothko, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and 80s’ music. Kay is a proud member of the Arts Council of Windsor, as well as the Ontario Arts Council.

Learn more about her and stay updated on the rumour about a 2024 remix on: Facebook.com/debbiekayart.

quote Henry David Thoreau: “The world is but canvas to our imaginations.” Thoreau believed there are unlimited and endless possibilities and opportunities for mankind to pursue.

One of these is starting a business.

At Biz X our job is to promote as many companies and organizations as we can in the magazine and on our website.

We have been organizing our awards program since 1998, and with the help of our readers, staff, freelance workers, IT support team, Judges and sponsors, the process is down to a fine art.

Traditionally, a 26th year celebration is known as the picture anniversary, with the modern gift being artwork. When you relate all this to the magazine, taking the best photos for our editorial content and being creative is what we are all about!

Put it all together and the theme Picture Perfect seemed to be a good fit for the 2023 Biz X Awards Edition.

Throughout this entire awards story you will see references to pictures and artwork plus the 26th anniversary gemstone (jade) which represents longevity, loyalty, security, and love.

What better way to describe the 2023 nominees as chosen by the readers of Biz X! Though our theme changes each year, our mission remains the same . . . to honour the outstanding entrepreneurs and leaders in Windsor, Essex County and Pelee Island.

Which local businesses, organizations, professionals and events will be chosen to receive the “pillars of success” — Biz X Award — for 2023?

In our 26th annual Awards Tribute, 213 nominees competed in 24 categories. This year, the online voting poll ran from September 18 until September 22 with over 37,000 votes coming in (surpassing the 2022 total).

Our award history goes back to 1998, and with the publishing of this issue, over 800 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, event and individual listed throughout this entire cover story.

However, like all award programs, there can be only one winner of each category in the end.

Along with bragging rights to tell others that they are #1 in their fields, winners receive a plaque from The Trophy Boys (see accompanying graphic) to display in their workplace, plus promotion in the November/

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December print and digital editions of Biz X. In addition to the support of The Trophy Boys for many years, we also would like to thank five businesses and organizations who sponsor our awards: Motor City Community Credit Union; Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre; St. Clair College Alumni Association; BetterDealClub.com; and Williams Food Equipment. Throughout the awards story, a special graphic before each section showcases each sponsor logo and website. Of course, it relates to our theme, particularly the lyrics to the Outkast song: “Shake it like a Polaroid picture, hey ya!”

Let’s now fill you in on how a business, organization, individual or event became a nominee or the overall winner of their category, by recapping the official 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 on: BizXmagazine.com. Businesses, organizations, events 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 it’s a small company or organization.

After the nomination period ended, nominees were made public on the Biz X website, when a voting poll in each category commenced in mid-September, for one week.

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. Getting the highest 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/organizations 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.

Only one nomination per business, organization, or individual is permitted.

Multiple nominations in different categories are not permitted. We reserve the right to choose the best category for each nominee when a nomination comes in.

National chains/franchises and nonprofit organizations are not eligible in most categories. Our mandate is to reward startup 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. An exception for category #24 in the HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT categories is also allowed, as many national organizations have local chapters hosting events.

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 to be the winner. Judges also research each nominee at their own discretion. The Judges meet after the online voting poll closes and all nominee information is received, they 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 many nominees in the category. In this case, 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 award 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), nominees 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 Edition is released to the public in mid-November.

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THE 2023 BIZ X AWARD JUDGES BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MCCCU.com

YEAR 26: PICTURE PERFECT As shown in the photo on the next page, the Biz X Award Judges are . . .

Mark Lefebvre, a six-time Biz X Award Judge, having participated from 2013 to 2016 and then re-joining the panel in 2022.

The Co-Founder of Stilt Guys — which won the 2012 Biz X Award for There’s No Business Like This Show Business — has been performing professionally for 35 years as an actor, singer, dancer, therapeutic clown doctor and mall Santa. Lefebvre is a champion of local arts and culture and recent credits include: playing villains in the feature film Vampire Zombies . . . from Space! and Bloodsucking Lawyers graphic novel; returning to the Shadowbox Theatre stage for Glengarry Glen Ross; joining the long-running The Rum Runners Tour; and haunting immersive dinners at Scarehouse Windsor. “Our region is blessed with a rich assortment of talent,” he states.

“This strength — plus our proximity and ties to Detroit’s resurgence — opens up many opportunities.”

Another six-time Judge, Chad Goulet, is a Project Manager at Paul Davis. For over a decade he owned his own cleaning and restoration business and decided it was time to share his knowledge and experience on a bigger scale, a few years ago. Goulet is certified for water, fire and smoke restoration by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification).

His hands-on construction involvement is a tremendous asset in assessing residential emergency mitigation and he has a vast knowledge of performing various types of structural repairs. Goulet has worked sideby-side with the community to help them deal with their losses during disasters and received the 2019 Paul Davis Rookie of the Year award for rookie restoration

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estimators and restoration supervisors who produce the most sales in the calendar year. For him it is hard to “have just one favourite award category,” but those on the top of his list include the Powerhouse Professional, Outstanding New Business and any categories related to the home and construction industry. “The Biz X Awards are important because they recognize the hard work and dedication of our local businesses, which are the backbone of our community,” comments Goulet.

First-time Judge Christian Pinard, is the current Owner of The Manchester Pub, The Boozy Barbell and All In Lawn Care. He is an entrepreneur at heart and has owned a number of businesses since starting his first business at the young age of 19 — Cornerstone Property Management.

“I think the Biz X Awards are very important in the community because it showcases small business owners who are vital to our economy,” he says. Pinard appreciated the opportunity to be a Biz X Award Judge because he loves meeting new people and broadening his horizons. “My fellow Judges are so incredibly knowledgeable in their respective fields,” he points out.” Whereas he naturally enjoys the categories that relate to hospitality and entertainment — after all that’s the industry he is in — his favourite awards to discuss were those honouring local business professionals specifically.

“I always love seeing other champions of the community doing their best to give back and change lives for the better,” Pinard mentions.

Biz X Award Judges from the left are: (Top row) Mark Lefebvre, Chad Goulet and Christian Pinard. (Middle row) Nicole Rourke and Jason Kerluck. (Bottom row) John-Marc Vachon, Kim Willis and Justin Barker. We refer to them as The Bench Bunch since Judges sit on a bench in a courtroom where they preside over a case and make their decision. For the purposes of this story, the courtroom is the Harbour House Waterfront Eatery, 9550 Riverside Drive East in Windsor! And the judgements made there on who the 24 Biz X Award winners would be were decided after the judging panel reviewed the admissible evidence — the nomination forms, information submitted online by nominees and the public voting poll results, along with their own research as well. On Judgment Night at the Harbour House, the menu began with appetizers of crab cakes, coconut shrimp, oysters, honey orange ginger beef skewers, and mini tarts with vegetables. Next followed a Harvest salad and a choice of butternut squash soup or lobster bisque. For the main entrée, each Judge could choose from: pecan goat cheese stuffed chicken breast, topped with a lemon zest cranberry sauce; pumpkin seed crusted salmon with roasted butternut squash; slow braised beef ragu rigatoni with shaved parmesan cheese, or lobster mac&cheese.

A sweet treat at the end (to keep our Judges energized!) was either chocolate lava cake or apple blossom. In between all these amazing dishes, the Judges debated the nominees in each category and then voted by secret ballot for his/her choice to determine the overall winners. Photos by Tina Huynh with Rod Denis assembling the shots into the final collage.

Nicole Rourke is a first-time Biz X Award Judge and is a Business Professor at St. Clair College. She has taught Marketing and Business ICT degree courses for almost 20 years and is thrilled to be part of the judging team. Rourke loves to get local businesses involved with her students and feels businesses should be celebrated for their community collaborations. She earned her MBA from Wayne State University and graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Windsor.

Rourke has co-authored two relationship selling textbooks and has coached many students in various provincial and national business competitions, bringing accolades to many students over the years. She was also awarded the Provincial Award of Excellence by the Ontario Colleges Marketing Competition panel in 2019. Rourke is excited to shine the spotlight on the many exceptional nominees in the Windsor Essex business district — along with those in the non-profit organizations as well — and celebrate their successes through the Biz X Awards.

Nine-time Judge Jason Kerluck is the Area Manager/Leadership Coach for Soul Foods Group in Windsor Essex and manages the nine KFC and Taco Bell locations owned by them. He also writes extensively about business and leadership in his spare time. “Being a Biz X Award Judge again this year gives me another chance to recognize people who have taken their passion and turned it into a living for themselves, as well as careers for others,” Kerluck expresses.

“Seeing the Biz X Award plaques displayed in these businesses reminds me how much being recognized matters, even if just in a little way.” Year after year, the Powerhouse Professional remains his favourite category.

“Making your dreams come true is one thing,” he says. “Leveraging the success of those dreams to make the dreams of others come true is what makes someone

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a Powerhouse Professional.” Kerluck feels the Biz X Awards are special because they honour small business owners and provide an opportunity for the community to thank them for their excellent customer service.

“It’s not about who has the biggest store, or the most social media fans,” he asserts.

“These awards are an equal opportunity environment to succeed, and even the newest branch on the tree can make the cut!”

Another first-time Judge on this year’s panel, John-Marc Vachon, is an awardwinning marketing and communications professional with over 15 years of experience. He is the Director of Marketing & Communications for WEtech Alliance, a non-profit organization that helps innovation and tech-enabled entrepreneurs

and businesses in Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent start, grow and scale.

“I jumped at the opportunity to be a Judge for this year’s Biz X Awards, which does an amazing job of highlighting the stories and successes of the incredible businesses, organizations and leaders in our community,” Vachon states. “And I loved finding out more about all of this year’s nominees.”

Kim Willis was previously a Judge in 2021 and rejoined the panel for 2023. She is the Director of Communications and Mental Health Promotion for the Canadian Mental Health Association WindsorEssex County branch and has more than 20 years of fundraising and communications experience, primarily in the education and healthcare sectors. Working with her team, Willis helped launch the Sole Focus Project campaign in 2017 to be proactive in making Windsor Essex a mentally healthier community. She has her Master of Arts degree in Journalism from Western University and also has her Certified Fund Raising Executive designation. Willis is also a freelance writer and has a podcast called KC Keeping It Real. As an avid fan of all things local, she enjoys learning about the wonderful events happening in the region. “The Biz X Awards always

have interesting categories that you don’t see anywhere else,” Willis indicates.

“I love learning about all of the businesses, organizations and individuals doing cool, innovative things in Windsor and Essex County.”

able to talk about an exceptional business to family and friends without hesitance is extremely important, he adds. “This year, businesses and organizations have stabilized and grown within our community, showing this strength through perseverance and stamina,” Barker comments.

“All the 2023 nominees are worthy of being recognized as business excellence leaders and professionals, having survived the last few years.”

Justin Barker returns for his 17th year as a Biz X Award Judge. As the Manager of the Comfort Inn South Windsor, he is keenly aware of what it takes to succeed in today’s business climate as his hotel has been presented Gold Awards for Guest Satisfaction by Choice Hotels Canada four consecutive times. Barker is a member of the Board of Directors for the Windsor/Essex Ontario Restaurant Hotel Motel Association and the newly formed Tourism Advisory Committee with Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island.

He is also a part-time instructor at St. Clair College within the Hospitality program.

Earning his Bachelor’s degree from Toronto Metropolitan University, Barker is also certified as a Revenue Management Executive. He believes that as an ambassador (with his job) to guests arriving from out of town, it is important for him to be aware of the small businesses that make our communities special. To experience new restaurants, shops, and services or to be

The Big Picture Deborah Jones, Publisher of Biz X magazine and her entire team wish to thank the Judges, award sponsors, suppliers, and most importantly, our valued advertisers and readers, for their support the past 26 years.

All of us at Biz X are very impressed with the 213 nominees listed throughout our 26th annual Awards’ edition for this year.

They are all doing an amazing job in their industries and we are proud of each and every nominee.

To read the list of nominees and see who the 24 winners are, simply turn the page.

The complete story (as the words in the title to this section hint) and all the facts are now revealed, as we present the official 2023 Biz X Award recipients.

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Motivational Quotes

“A winner is someone who is not focusing on someone else’s life.

They are instead listening to the power of their mindset that pushes them forward, helps them stay diligent, and creates the ultimate success they long for.”

Danny Gautama is an inspirational writer who writes for mental health organizations, hospitals, and is a blogger on: BizXmagazine.com. He helps many on social media and is a two time recipient of the LoveMakers Foundation Awards. Connect with him by emailing: dannygautamawellness@gmail.com.

1. O utstanding New Business Of 2023 (Businesses that opened from September 1, 2022 to September 1, 2023) *No restaurants, food trucks or bars were included as they could participate in the Hospitality & Entertainment Categories.

The nominees are . . .

BBQ DR (March 2023), Belle River, Facebook.com/THEBBQDOCTOR Cakeface Mobile Artistry (April 2023), Amherstburg, CakefaceMobileArtistry.com Everybuddies Place Game Café (May 2023), 216 Sandwich St., Amherstburg Litrosi Day Spa Inc. (November 2022), 515 Riverside Drive West, Unit 3, Windsor Picsume (June 2023), Amherstburg, Picsume.ca Steve Green Foods (March 2023), 1512 Wyandotte St. East, Rear Building, Windsor

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YEAR 26: PICTURE PERFECT

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Everybuddies Place Game Café Established in May 2023, Everybuddies Place Game Café provides an interactive and entertaining community hot spot. The business offers a 200-plus game library, a video game room stocked with six different consoles, an arcade and a full range of homemade baked goods, frozen treats, and beverages, as well as board games and puzzles for sale. They offer beautiful spaces and unique experiences through combining their passions of board games, special snacks and social gatherings.

“Our goal at Everybuddies Place is to create a fun environment that fosters authentic interaction between people of all ages in a safe and inclusive atmosphere right in the heart of historic Amherstburg,” states Owner Tammy Brochert, who also owns Little Buddies Preschool Centre in the town with two locations, open since 2011. Her new biz — Everybuddies Place Game Café — puts on events for every type of gamer, such as tournaments, trivia nights, open table nights, a chess league, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) leagues and movie nights (to view upcoming events go to: EverybuddiesPlace.com). They serve coffee, tea and specialty drinks like bubble tea, milkshakes and slushies, plus ice cream nachos, frozen treats and a range of snacks that fit every diet, including keto, diabetic and gluten free. For the gaming portion of the operation, you can reserve a table or book their private boardroom. As a family-run business — Brochert’s daughter Kate and son-in-law Anthony Foster also

work there and assist with events — they aim to treat all their customers as family.

“We strive to make a genuine connection with each and every person who walks through our doors,” Brochert asserts. “After making it through a pandemic, connection is now more important than ever!” Their target audience is “EVERYBUDDY” and their goal is to provide an out of this world experience for young kids — all the way up to seniors. “From family game nights, adult role playing games, murder mystery nights and our chess and scrabble club, we grow with the community to fit their needs for our small town,” the owner describes. “We want your visit to Everybuddies to feel like you have just been invited to game night at your best friend’s house — without the clean-up!” Nominator Alyssa C. writes that all the employees are kind, dedicated and hard-working. Her comments include: “This game cafe is fun and entertaining, and adds a positive spark to my small town. They provide amazing service and games that bring people together, and provide a safe space to go for a good price!” Everybuddies Place Game Café is committed to community outreach and donates to several local organizations, such as The Miracle League of Amherstburg, the Moose Hide Campaign, and Hope Walks.

They also are excited to join up with the House of Shalom to plan a fundraising Game Night for the youth in the area, and cannot wait to connect more with other local organizations to build their community. Brochert says they look forward to expanding in the future and adding different aspects to the business, such as pinball and VR, which have been widely requested. “We would love to have a larger space, but overall we want Essex County residents to have a safe place to come and feel like they can be themselves — no matter what they are into — and find others who might be interested in the same things,” she indicates.

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2. True Masterpiece Art Teachers (Where adults and children can go for art lessons such as painting and/or making crafts.)

The nominees are . . .

Art Galia, 199 Lesperance Rd., Unit A, Tecumseh Brava Academy Music and the Performing Arts, 2591 Howard Ave., Windsor The Art Lab, 894 Ottawa St., Windsor Twisted Bristles Now, Windsor, TwistedBristlesNow.wixsite.com/ twistedbristlesnow And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

The Art Lab The Art Lab is an art studio and event space that focuses more on the process of creating art than on the end result. “The Art Lab’s process-based art focus, incorporation of the play-to-learn strategy, emphasis on creativity and play, holistic learning experience, inclusive environment, stress reduction benefits, unique event space, and inspired leadership, all contribute to its uniqueness and set it apart from other contenders in the art studio and event space industry,” explains Owner/Director Samantha Walker. The business is open to customers aged one through 99 and prices vary depending on the duration of the session, with single sessions costing $25 and week-long camp sessions priced at $400. Their lessons, activities, and workshops all include art supplies. Walker possesses many qualities that make her a

Samantha Walker, Owner/Director of The Art Lab in Windsor has mastered the art of teaching to help her students excel, learn and enhance their artistic abilities.

Photo courtesy of Samantha Walker.

good teacher, including passion, adaptability, patience, effective communication, creativity, empathy, work ethic, problem-solving skills, open-mindedness and leadership skills.

“These qualities are essential in fostering an environment where students can excel, learn and enhance their artistic abilities while embracing the philosophy of process-based art and the play-to-learn strategy,” Walker states. “In essence, my teaching skills revolve around creating a nurturing, exploratory, and growth-oriented environment where my students can thrive in the artistic process and develop both their skills and confidence.”

Regularly scheduled programs are available from Thursday to Sunday and day camps are available during both March Break and the summer. “Every week of camp is centred around a theme and we have corresponding projects for each one,” she indicates. The Art Lab opened in July 2018 and has three employees working from the Ottawa Street location (find them online at: TheArtLabWindsor.com). In order to make learning fun and engaging for her students, Walker utilizes various creative strategies and approaches. Some of her techniques include themed sessions, interactive demonstrations, art games and challenges, incorporating storytelling and narratives into lessons, introducing surprise elements into the classes, carefully curated atmospheres that include appropriate music and ambiance that match the artistic theme, emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom, collaborative projects, featuring guest artists and workshops, show and tell, celebration of progress, and more. “By consistently incorporating these strategies, I ensure that my classes are informative, enjoyable, and memorable,” expresses Walker. “A fun and engaging learning environment enhances creativity, making the artistic journey a delightful experience for all my students.”

As a self-taught artist with an interest in all forms of art, Walker thoroughly enjoys being able to motivate and inspire children through art. “One memorable instance comes to mind when I worked with a young boy named Ethan (last name withheld) who initially seemed hesitant and needed clarification about his artistic abilities,” she describes.

Ethan would often compare his work to that of his peers, feeling discouraged by what he perceived as his shortcomings. Walker decided to tap into his interests and passions to encourage his imagination to shine through his artwork. “As the project neared completion, Ethan’s once-shy demeanour had transformed,” she exclaims. “Ethan’s journey from uncertainty to empowerment showcased the power of tailored motivation and personalized projects.” Judge Lefebvre comments: “I find they are into letting your

creativity flourish and giving you the tools to try different things and different mediums.”

Judge Willis agrees and says The Art Lab, “Has it all . . . it’s an awesome space with lots of art activities and supplies and a hit with all ages!” The Art Lab belongs to the Uptown Ottawa Street BIA and the Arts Council Windsor & Region. They support the Fight Like Mason Foundation, Fantastic Fathers, John McGivney Children’s Centre, Family Respite Services and many others. Walker has several key initiatives planned for the future, including: expanding class offerings, hosting artistic retreats, facilitating collaborative projects, developing an online learning platform, creating art therapy programs, establishing an artist residency program, expanding gallery space, partnering with schools, creating public art installations, promoting international art exchanges, establishing scholarship opportunities, incorporating art and sustainability initiatives, and more.

“These plans reflect our commitment to nurturing creativity, community and personal growth through art,” Walker states. “With these initiatives, I am confident The Art Lab will continue to evolve, inspire and positively impact the artistic landscape of our community and beyond.”

3. Piping Hot Plumbing Specialists (The plumbing team who are the greatest thing since indoor plumbing!)

The nominees are . . .

Bubby’s Plumbing, 1074 Crawford Ave., Windsor Elite Plumbing, 348 West Puce Rd., Belle River Fowler Plumbing, 12133 Riverside Drive East, Tecumseh Ole Walkerville Plumbing, 2666 Turner Rd., Windsor Plumbing Now, 4255 Seventh Concession, Windsor RFG Plumbing, 13007 Hyland Side Rd., Essex Warkentin Plumbing, Heating And Air Conditioning, 54 Mill St. East, Kingsville And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

RFG Plumbing RFG Plumbing is a family owned and operated business run by Frank Giles (Master Plumber), and his two sons, Ryan and Brandon Giles (both plumbing journeymen). Between their plumbing and electrical (RFG Electrical that opened BIZ X MAGA Z I N E • N O V E M B E R / D E CE M B E R 2 0 2 3

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in 2019) divisions, they employ 15 people.

Their team has been able to complete more than 15,000 jobs in the seven years they’ve been in business — since October 2016.

“We are happy that we have been able to provide services, develop friendships and long-lasting relationships within our community,” state the owners. The company offers 24-hour service, seven days a week, eel and camera services, drainage and waterline repairs and replacements. They are also back water valve and sump pump specialists, along with being backflow certified. “Our specialties include clearing clogged drains, leak detection and finding innovative, efficient and cost-friendly solutions to resolve any plumbing issue,” the owners point out. They offer 24/7 emergency services and after-hours calls can be made to their main phone line. “It is always answered by someone from RFG Plumbing, never a call centre,” they stress. Customers can also connect with the company on their social media page: Facebook.com/RFGPlumbing.

Free estimates are provided and charges are by the hour for service repairs. “We also do estimates for bigger jobs that require us

to order material and take an extended amount of time to do a repair,” the owners explain.

They offer a one-year warranty on their workmanship, and any of the materials or equipment they provide has a manufacturer’s warranty. “We believe we have staying power because of our drive, determination and vision we have for the plumbing and electrical trades,” the owners comment, adding their whole team has a never-giveup attitude. “We always find solutions to the problems we face. Our customer is our number one priority and we treat them like family.” They recall the best example of exceptional customer service was an 11-hour eel/auger job they resolved. “We received a referral from another plumbing company and found out that three other companies came and gave up,” they describe. “We worked diligently as a team to clear the massive sand clog that was blocking the main sanitary sewer.” Nominators and Judges all reiterate that RFG Plumbing is reliable, dependable and available at all hours of the day and night. The RFG in their business name was originally for Ralph Franklin Giles, which is Frank’s dad’s name, the owners explain.

“And Frank has the same name, Ryan is also an RFG and Ryan’s son is also an RFG,” they add. Judge Kerluck comments: “Not only do they have a very tongue-in-cheek business name and slogan, but they do great work and are really getting noticed.” Judge Barker states their team consistently comes up with unique solutions to difficult projects. “I’ve seen Ryan in different places and he was covered head to toe in muck,” he comments.

“I’ve seen these guys in action with their apprentices and they are not afraid to do whatever it takes to get the job done right.”

That’s why now they are triple Biz X Award winners, earning a hat trick in 2023, combined with their two past wins for Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year (2019) and Charged Up Electrical Expert (2020). The family also do a lot of charity work for the New Song Church and Street Help by hosting a huge party on the second weekend in August.

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RFG Plumbing is a business born out of generations of plumbers in the family, and run by a father and his two sons. From left: Ryan Giles, Co-Founder; Frank Giles, President and Co-Founder, and Brandon Giles, Co-Founder. Photo by Rod Denis.

“Our future plans are to expand into a full mechanical business offering plumbing, electrical and HVAC for all our customers,” the owners note. “It is our goal to be a one-call shop!”

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

4. Ride In Style Limo Co. (Who to rent a limo from for a wedding, elegant evening out, event/sports game, etc.)

The nominees are . . .

Andiamo Limousines and Party Buses, Ruthven, AndiamoLimos.ca Butterfield Limousine Service, Windsor, ButterfieldLimo.com Elegance Limousine Service, Windsor, m.Facebook.com/people/ elegancelimo/100063715848744 Royal Limousines Of Windsor, RoyalLimousinesOfWindsor.com And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Butterfield Limousine Service Butterfield Limousine Service is a local professional ground transportation company serving Windsor, Essex County, Tilbury, Chatham, Detroit and surrounding areas.

“Our prompt, courteous chauffeurs are waiting to serve your every need,” expresses the owner of the company, Bernard Lyons.

Whether it is for a night out, a stop at a local winery or a wedding, their drivers can make any occasion an enjoyable one! Butterfield Limousine Service opened in January 1989 and is located at 9630 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. They have three vehicles in their fleet — a 12-passenger Mercedes Sprinter, 22-passenger party bus, and a 24-passenger party bus. They offer services for weddings, proms, concerts, sporting events, airport transportation, wine tours and more.

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Thinking of painting the town red, or are you getting hitched? One of three vehicles in the Butterfield Limousine Service fleet you may want to rent is the 24 passenger party bus, shown here at Willistead Manor. Photo courtesy of Butterfield Limousine Service.

Prices vary depending on the type of run, length and number of hours. “We offer discounted rates during slower months,” notes Lyons. The business has nine professional drivers. “They must all have a minimum of three years bus driving experience in order to be hired,” he states, adding that the drivers dress up formally for weddings and dress a bit more casually for non-wedding occasions. Butterfield Limousine has full coverage, plus U.S. coverage, on their limos and their drivers are also registered through DriverCheck, a drug and alcohol testing company. During COVID, Lyons recounts how they worked with many couples who had to change or cancel their wedding date

because of lockdowns. Butterfield Limousine was able to successfully postpone and/or change their date to a new date, and if they were already booked, they refunded the customer’s deposit. “Customers were very appreciative of this,” says Lyons. Nominator Lorraine M. gave a glowing review of the business and on her nomination form typed: “They have quality vehicles, fair prices, are really easy to work with, can roll with changes in schedule and our guests love them!” Lyons notes they try to give back and volunteer their limo services to Make-A-Wish Southwestern Ontario, an organization creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. “Butterfield Limousine

is a well-known and trusted company with drivers who go above and beyond to make sure everyone gets to and from their event safely,” states Lyons. For a list of services and rates refer to: ButterfieldLimo.com.

5. D istinguished Biz Champ Of The Year (A company in operation for over one year that has done something exceptional to take care of business.) *No restaurants/bars or retail shops could participate as they have their own categories.

The nominees are . . .

Absolute Comfort Services, 4080 North Service Rd., Unit 2, Windsor Head Of The Class Education Centre, 1247 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor Leslie’s Support Solutions Inc., 2557 Dougall Ave., Unit 6, Windsor Melo LLP, 225 Erie St. South, Unit 2, Leamington (Head Office); 2679 Howard Ave., Suite 200, Windsor and four other locations in Ontario O’Kane Financial Group, 3215 Jefferson Blvd., Unit 303, Windsor

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Distinguished Biz Champ of The Year

Osmosis Glow, 315 Pelissier St., Unit 8, Windsor Scarehouse Windsor, 1441 McDougall St., Windsor Sonata Piano Studio, 13311 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh SRT Accounting Inc., Tecumseh, SRTAccounting.com Vision In Numbers Inc., Windsor 1010 University Ave. West, Suite 107 Windsor Express, 405 Victoria Ave., Windsor And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Windsor Express The Windsor Express is a professional basketball team that has had proven success both on and off the court — they are twotime National Basketball League (NBL) of Canada Champions (2013/14 and 2014/15) and 2023 Championship Finalists and they also support the community with substantial, meaningful and effective programs and activities, according to Owner Dartis Willis.

“We have worked hard to build a basketball team that is not only a major power in the sports entertainment industry of Windsor, but one that is community first, inclusive and reaches across the borders to our neighbours,” Willis notes. Established in August 2012, the Windsor Express has 40 employees during their season and is a past 2013 Biz X Award winner for The Sports Team To Watch. Willis believes that affordable entertainment is a key driver for fans, so they work hard to keep their tickets at a reasonable rate, with singlegame tickets starting at $19 and group tickets starting at $14. This year the team made a change in their organizational structure by moving from the NBL to the Basketball Super League (BSL). “Being a part of the BSL ensures a higher level of competition and greater access to sports and entertainment opportunities,” explains Willis. Giving back and engaging with the community is paramount to the team and they host a free Family Day game. Last season they gave out free tickets to the community, twice —

Windsor Express Owner Dartis Willis (right) and MDMotivator Zachery Dereniowski share a laugh on the court at the Family Day game on February 20, 2023. Photo courtesy of Mac Turner.

made possible by partnerships with local businesses. “Our Windsor business partners include Transition to Betterness, Joe Fallea from RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd., Mucci Farms, Dairy Farmers of Ontario, WFCU Credit Union and Ives Insurance Brokers,” states Willis. “Also, very near and dear to the Windsor Express is our Adopta-School program to provide free tickets to games for students, in partnership with local businesses,” Willis points out. “This past season we adopted our highest number of schools, allowing even more students to experience the excitement of our games.”

In addition, they organize an Express to the Trades event in partnership with St. Clair College and the local school boards. The expo provides an opportunity for students to learn about the skilled trades industry from local and provincial organizations. Their second annual expo drew a turnout of 1,248 students and their parents. Five years ago they created a non-profit arm to the business called the Windsor Express Community

Sports Association. This allows them to reach the underserved Windsor Essex citizens through community programming, such as hosting basketball camps across the region. “We have provided over $15,000 in cash donations during the 2023 season to local charities and non-profit organizations,” Willis adds. “During our tenure, we have always given back to charities with cash and in-kind donations each year.” Willis says it is important to the team to include and offer local talent the opportunity to build their entertainment piece during games. “We bring in local artists to perform during pre-game activities and at half-time,” he comments.

“Local dancers from Cardinal Carter comprise our dance team, performing at all home games.” They also partner with nonprofits and charities to host 50/50 fundraisers at all home games, and beneficiaries have been the Emerald Isle Dance Society and Riverside Minor Baseball Association.

The team also provides internships for postsecondary students at St. Clair College

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and the University of Windsor each season, and they’ve also participated as a co-op work placement for high school students.

Nominator John E. writes: “The Windsor Express have been a staple in the community in supporting local community organizations, schools, and charities, including the Sandwich Teen Action Group.” Judge Vachon is very impressed with the team’s hard work, perseverance and dedication to the community: “They overcame the pandemic restrictions — which completely shut them down — and many other hardships over their 10+ years of existence and they are still here.” The upcoming BSL 2023/24 regular season schedule includes 14 home dates and 12 road games. The Express will tip-off their inaugural BSL season at home on January 12, 2024, as they host the Montreal Tundra at the WFCU Centre. For the full schedule check: WindsorExpress.ca.

Due to a conflict, Judge Lefebvre did not vote in this category.

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

CanAm Currency Exchange CanAm Currency Exchange strives to become the most prevalent and preferred currency exchange service and bullion dealer in Canada, according to Owner Michael Piccioni. “We are proud to offer the best rates, guaranteed, and we take a customer-first

approach in everything we do,” he proudly states. Located on Dougall Avenue, the Windsor business opened in February 2017 and currently has 12 employees. Piccioni says they help clients transfer their funds in a quick, easy and stress-free manner with no service fees. He asserts that their rates are up to 3% better than local banks. The firm has more than 50 different currencies they can sell to clients. “We offer free electronic funds transferring, which allows our clients to buy or sell USD currency through their bank accounts,” Piccioni adds. “We are also an authorized dealer with the Royal Canadian Mint and sell precious metals.”

They set their rates off the current market rate. “Rates fluctuate throughout the day, and we closely monitor and adjust our rates to ensure we are continuously offering the best rates in Canada,” he explains, pointing out they don’t have any transaction or service fees. The business is able to complete transactions on the spot for walk-in clients.

And for clients using their electronic funds transferring service, oftentimes they will see the funds in their account the same day, but next-day service is guaranteed. They currently provide Foreign Exchange (FX) services to all of Canada and have also recently entered the U.S. market. “This is a great currency exchange . . . from silver and gold to crypto, they have you covered with the best rates, service and atmosphere,” comments Judge Pinard. CanAm Currency Exchange has an added incentive for their loyal clients with referral discounts, and the firm pride themselves on exceptional customer service and helping people save money when exchanging funds. “We offer a state-of-the-art exchange platform that’s available to our clients 24/7,” adds Piccioni.

“Our clients are also able to call us and book their trades over the phone.” The business is open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Customers can also reach out by email at: support@ canamcurrency.com and send a message online via: CanAmCurrencyExchange.com.

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6. W orld Class Currency Exchange Firm (When you need to exchange Canadian currency for currency of another country, and vice versa, the FX firm to use.)

The nominees are . . .

CanAm Currency Exchange, 3234 Dougall Ave., Windsor Windsor Station Currency Exchange, 298 Walker Rd., Windsor

“Even the big banks in the area send people here because they only carry so much foreign currency,” indicates Judge Barker. “So what better recommendation could there be?”

The business supports several charitable organizations, including the Rotary Club of Essex, LaSalle Sabres hockey team as well as various soccer, baseball and softball clubs and has also donated defibrillators to various schools in the area. “We are hoping to expand and open locations in Tecumseh and Leamington in the near future,” Piccioni states. “We are also opening an online FX store and recently went live with an online precious metals store.”

Judge Rourke had a bias in this category and did not vote or participate in any conversation regarding this category.

7. The Life & Soul Of The Party Rentals (Where to rent items such as inflatable bouncy castles, outdoor games, movie screens, carnival food machines, and more.) *Tent rentals were not a factor.

The nominees are . . .

All Time Party Rentals, Tecumseh, AllTimePartyRentals.com Curbside Cards, Tecumseh, Facebook.com/CurbsideCards.ca Festival Tent & Party Rentals, Maidstone, FestivalTent.com Games On The Move, Belle River, GamesOnTheMoveWindsor.com Golf Indigo, Windsor, GolfIndigo.com Marvelous Movie Nights, Windsor, MarvelousMovieNights.com Redline Inflatables, Windsor, RedlineInflatables.com And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Festival Tent & Party Rentals Festival Tent & Party Rentals is the largest,

most reputable event company in the Windsor Essex region, claims Owner Lea-Ann Suzor.

She says they’ve been providing outstanding customer service and keeping dependable delivery schedules to their clients since opening in 1987. “We offer a complete event solution for celebrations large and small,” Suzor notes. “Working with established local partners and a premium reference network, we can eliminate the pain points of party planning.” With 35 employees, a computerized reservation system and a money back satisfaction guarantee, they ensure peace of mind. Suzor is a Certified Event Rental Professional, as designated by the Canadian Rental Association and the American Rental Association. Festival Tent & Party Rentals, located at 4595 County Road 46, RR#3 in Maidstone, offers event rental equipment for any occasion you can imagine.

Nominators all state they have everything you need for any type of party or wedding, from tables, chairs, table cloths, champagne flutes, dance floor, sound system, games, popcorn machines and more . . . And if they don’t have it, they will find a place that does and get it to you! Festival Tent & Party Rentals has two distinct divisions: The Party Division — providing tents and event equipment — and the Portable Toilet Division — servicing the residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors. And, since all gatherings require tableware, they offer china, glassware, flatware, serving pieces and charger plates.

They also carry coffee urns, chafing dishes, BBQs, champagne fountains, and draft beer dispensers. Suzor says the fun never ends with their volleyball nets, putting greens, big Jenga games, three-in-one poker mats and the new giant PLINKO. For children’s parties they have all the favourites, like candy floss and nacho cheese machines, snow cone makers and popcorn poppers. For other special events, they also have red carpets and stanchions with ropes, pink lawn flamingos, microphones with speakers, and 18-foot-high wind dancers available in several colours and seasonal characters. The Portable Toilet Division offers basic porta-john units, units with sinks, and units with flush toilets and sinks. They also offer wheelchair accessible units and provide service to weekend events and monthly contracts for long-term rentals.

Monthly contracts include weekly cleaning, and they can also provide pumping and maintenance of client-owned temporary sites.

Tent rentals were not part of the criteria for this category and that’s because they already won the Biz X Award for the Tent Rental Company Which Covers All The Bases, back in 2015! No matter what you need, Festival Tent gets the party started and keeps it going all night long! To see all the event supplies available, visit: FestivalTent.com.

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8. 2 023 Powerhouse Professional

PEOPLE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

(A local business owner or top manager who has what it takes to keep the company or organization they own/work for, profitable in today’s tough times.)

The nominees are . . .

Amy Ley, Music For Young Children and 4th Wall Music, 1191 Kildare Rd., Windsor Ashley Harmon, Hogarth Hermiston Severs LLP, 230 McCurdy Drive, Amherstburg and 114 Giles Blvd. West, Windsor Brett Humber, Sound Foundry Studios, 1065 Birch Ave., Kingsville Candice Twees, Inspired Sounds Music Therapy, 1168 Drouillard Rd., Windsor Colin Grimmond, Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network, SWOBEN.ca, Windsor Corey Douglas Robertson, Security One, 200 Sherk St., Leamington, and a volunteer for Julien’s House, The Bank Theatre, ALSO, Erie Shores Health Foundation . . . and more Danielle Wellings-Carriere, OneSource Moving Solutions, 6 County Rd. 42, Maidstone and franchise locations throughout Ontario Devon Ryan, Drive Pre-owned Sales, 224 South St., Belle River Dr. Maxwell Abraham, Abraham Orthodontics, 185 Erie St. South, Unit 1, Leamington and 729 St. Clair St., Unit 1, Chatham Erika Pozzuoli, Pure Mentality, 871 Ottawa St., Unit 160, Windsor Felipe Da Silva and Catarina Da Silva, Felipe’s Blazin BBQ, LaSalle linktr.ee/FelipesBlazinBbq, Frank Fazio, SafeGuard, 1520 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh Gisele Levasseur, RBC Mortgage Specialist, Tecumseh Mortgage.rbc.com/Gisele.Levasseur Jeanine Simard, Bark & Fitz Essex and Greenhawk Equestrian Sport Essex, 7300 Howard Ave., Oldcastle

Jennifer Charron, Logic Executive Search & Workplace Solutions, 310 Croft Drive, Unit 200, Tecumseh Jordyn Severin, Marie Rose Music Studio, 1740 Sprucewood Ave., Unit 1, LaSalle Marcel Parent, Pinnacle Plus Realty Ltd. and Advanced Care & Training, MarcelParent.com, Windsor Marla Coffin, Marda Management, Huron Shores Property Management, Vision In Numbers, 1000 University Ave. West, Windsor Max Plantus, Wash-Pro Pressure Washing, Facebook.com/WashProWindsor Mena Vincelli, Style Me Mena, Windsor Instagram.com/Style_Me_Mena Mike Cardinal, Cardinal Place, 3140 Peter St., Windsor Serge Ecoiffier, Lakeshore Hidden Oasis and Rhonec Décor, 362 Jordan Lane, Tecumseh Simon Debane, Global Pet Foods, 35 Amy Croft Drive, Tecumseh Taryn Riley-Webb, Giant Tiger, 1475 Huron Church Rd., Windsor Taylor Meyers, All On Board Charcuterie and Louis Slab Sauce, 1445 Ottawa St., Windsor Tina Brigley, Tina Brigley Coaching, TinaBrigley.com, Belle River Victoria Rubio, VR Success Services, 3690 Walker Rd., Unit 1, Windsor

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StClairAlumni.com

YEAR 26: PICTURE PERFECT

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Mike Cardinal, Cardinal Place Mike Cardinal changed careers from a Catholic priest to a psychotherapist in 1999, and as his “therapy” he bought and fixed up houses to subsidize his counselling income. The Cardinal Place adventure began when Sister Sue Mallette asked him about possibly purchasing the Holy Names Residence, which was a convent on Peter Street. “After several months of research and spreadsheets, I finally settled on a business plan and purchased the former convent with a silent partner, in July 2006,” Cardinal recounts.

“Four of the Sisters have since retired at Cardinal Place.” In late 2013 a new direction was inspired by their credit union local manager.

“He suggested changing the business to a licensed retirement home,” Cardinal mentions.

“I researched the requirements. They were many, but each was achievable, step by step.”

In order to focus on the retirement home, he then sold all his other rental properties and also bought out his silent partner. “Now I am the sole owner of Cardinal Place Inc.,” states Cardinal.

He explains that he subsidized his income for the transition with his psychotherapy practice and as a licensed wedding officiant, along with Joe McParland. At Cardinal Place, their target market is moderate income retirees and their decision makers. “All of the corporately owned retirement homes charge much higher rates and add on charges for many services — we do not,” Cardinal asserts. “Customer respect starts with our rates being posted at the door and online — no confusing price games.” When needed, they provide extra care services at a bundled rate, so that a senior is not faced with having to move again when health declines. “In the business this is known as ‘independent’ and ‘assisted’ living,” he notes. “We do both depending on the person’s needs.” As a matter of course, all retirement homes include meals, cleaning, utilities, and basic care in the base rate. However, at Cardinal Place, the base rate also includes phone and North American long-distance calls, television signal, WIFI, laundry, activities, raised garden beds, bus trips, and some furnishings. “All of our rooms are private with full ensuite bathrooms,”

Cardinal adds. “That alone goes a long way to lend a sense of dignity and respect for an elder.” For him, having founded Cardinal Place (which opened October 2014) and keeping it going, is his greatest business accomplishment.

“Navigating the various regulatory agencies has been a challenge, but I would not want to operate with any compromise,” Cardinal stresses. “I can honestly claim, for example, that by exceeding requirements, we have improved the building to be the most fire-safe retirement home in the province.” He shares that, very soon into their existence, the inspector from the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority noted they far exceeded the usual expectations for a new retirement home. “We were far ahead on our compliances and procedures,” he proudly declares. “With those minimums well in place, and better, we focused on quality of care from the start.” The devoted business owner that he is, Cardinal was in the building for long hours and pitching in wherever he could. His team witnessed his devout work ethic and followed the example of going above and beyond in their duties. “I have been fortunate over time to find a very skilled, caring and dedicated team,” Cardinal comments, adding that he employs about 30 people on a steady basis.

Multiple nominators wrote that Cardinal treats all residents with dignity and respect, and like family members, rates are affordable and he

For Mike Cardinal, opening Cardinal Place and keeping it going, is his greatest business accomplishment (and the community feels the same as well!). Photo courtesy of Mychailo Photography.

has monthly meetings to inform residents of current events. Several nominators also praised how he maintained the proper restrictions during the pandemic and kept everyone safe and COVID free for 26 months, with only one brief, manageable outbreak. Cardinal has been keen to support the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, jazz performances at Mackenzie Hall and the Windsor-Essex Pride Fest. “I also regularly volunteer the Cardinal Place Bus (a former transit bus) for Run for Rocky fundraising, the Unifor Labour Day Parade and other civil and sports events,” Cardinal points out. But that’s not all! He is the Past-Chair of the Windsor-Essex

Community Benefits Coalition; he has been the Chair of the Our West End Round Table, a neighbourhood revitalization initiative formerly funded by United Way, and he’s been appointed to the City of Windsor Town and Gown Committee for a couple of terms. Cardinal has also had an active role in advocating for a Residential Rental Licence with the purpose of ensuring students and all tenants have a safe, inspected place to live, especially with regard to fire safety and basic Ontario Building Code standards. He is also an Executive Member and past President of the Windsor West New Democratic Party Riding Association and he founded and organized Rally For Our Riverfront at the beginning of the pandemic, to raise awareness and challenge the City of Windsor’s decision to locate the historic streetcar in an above-grade museum along the riverfront. Cardinal is also the past President of Dignity Detroit (a LGBT Catholic faith community serving Detroit and Windsor) and he continues to facilitate a monthly dinner club for LGBT2S+, something he’s done for more than 23 years. He is also a foster parent for two youth with Five Fourteen, an agency specializing in providing safe homes for queer and questioning youth. And now you see why he was selected as our 2023 Powerhouse Professional!

To learn more about his retirement residence visit: CardinalPlace.ca.

Congratulations Biz X award winners Whether you are looking to grow, expand internationally, transform with technology, or exit your business, our KPMG Private Enterprise advisors can help.

Contact us!

3200 Deziel Dr., Suite 618 Windsor, ON T: 519-251-3500 Making businesses even better. © 2023 KPMG LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee.

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9. Artist Of The Year (For example a singer, painter, musician, sculptor, band, or actor.) *No authors or photographers could participate as these categories were previously awarded in recent years.

The nominees are . . .

Alma Hadzalic (Painter), Instagram.com/AlmaHadz_ Angie Gidillini (Digital Illustrations and Acrylic Art), Facebook.com/art.by.Angie.Gidillini Anh Nguyen (Dance Artist, Performer, Teacher, Choreographer & Composer), HNMDance.ca Anita Pistor (Oil Painting Artist), AnitaPistorArt.com Asaph Maurer (Painter), Facebook.com/AsaphMaurerArt Autumn Kings (Band), AutumnKings.com Brendan Scott Friel (Musician and Singer/Songwriter), BrendanScottFriel.com Carson Janik (Musician, Singer, Songwriter), Instagram.com/CarsonJanik Derkz (Muralist), M.Facebook.com/DerkzArt Fresh Breath (Band), FreshBreathBand.com Lisette & Tyler Sasso (Live Music Acoustic Duo), LisetteAndTyler.com Lorraine Steele (Visual Artist), Facebook.com/Lorraine.Steele.77 Madison PJ Young (Painter, Tattoo Apprentice), ArtByMadiYoung.com Michael Difazio (Furniture Maker), MichaelDifazio.ca Mike Hargreaves (Singer, Songwriter and Recording/Performing Artist), MikeHargreaves.com Paula McNorton (Sculptor and Creator), Facebook.com/profile.php? id=100044722821665 Sarah Booth (Actor), Linktr.ee/SarahFilmBooth

Local actor Sarah Booth is a regular on the series Three Pines (Amazon Prime), based on an inspector investigating murders in a rural Quebec town. Professional studio shot courtesy of Lauren Vandenbrook/LV Imagery.

Booth is a regular on the series Three Pines and she appeared as a guest star on Law & Order: SVU, Star Trek: Discovery and Heartland. She was the recipient of ACTRA’s (the Canadian acting union) inaugural Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award. Recently Booth was awarded Female Performance of the Year in Canada for the single-take feature, Last Call (more on this later!). Additional film and television work include recurring roles on Y: The Last Man, Murdoch Mysteries, Helix, The Moodys and 21 Thunder, as well as lead roles in Trapped.

Booth has also appeared on FROM, Transplant, Pretty Hard Cases, American Horror Story, The Bold Type, and best-selling game Far Cry 5. And she “used to save the day in Universal Studios’ Waterworld live stunt show!”

Currently, she has three upcoming roles in film and television shot this year, including Our Christmas Mural, a movie premiering on the Hallmark Channel on November 26. Booth started her acting career in high school stage productions before attending Dawson College in Montreal for their Theatrical Arts program.

“After I graduated in 2008, I was fortunate to become a regular cast member on a CBC soap opera called 30 Vies (30 Lives),” she recalls.

“From there I began to balance my work in the traditional TV and film system, as well as creating my own short films and feature films to have an entrepreneurial path for my acting.” She was then able to secure agents in Montreal, Toronto, and eventually Los Angeles (where she lived from 2015 to 2020) to pursue auditioning opportunities. Her local productions credits include, The Scarehouse (Universal Studios/Mimetic Entertainment),

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Sarah Booth As a classically trained actor born in Montreal, Sarah Booth recently moved back to Windsor full time, in 2020. She primarily acts in films and television for studios such as CBC, Amazon Prime, NBC, ABC Netflix, Fox and more. “I also work in independent productions filmed here in Windsor that have been released by the likes of Universal Studios and HBO Europe,” lists Booth. She has played a wide variety of characters: “from a quirky detective to a murderer, and everything in between.”

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a feature film shot inside Windsor’s own Scarehouse Windsor attraction, and Last Call (Mimetic), another feature film shot entirely in downtown Windsor. She worked on these projects with her husband, Gavin Booth. “I also appear in The Boo Crew, a locally shot documentary, where I am teaching improv to young actors,” Booth adds. And she is involved with the Windsor Film Centre where she has taught a class on acting, helping to develop local actors’ skills and understanding of the professional industry. Her Windsor based projects have screened at the Chrysler Theatre, WIFF and Lakeshore Cinemas and she and her husband have been guest celebrities at the local Rose City Comic Con. “I believe I will continue to be successful as a Canadian actor because I won’t quit,” she asserts. “I continue to audition weekly for new projects, and lately I’ve been fortunate enough to work as a series regular on multiple TV shows, roles in TV movies and guest starring on other series.” She plans to continue to develop and produce films of her own as well. “I’m collaborative and always looking for new acting experiences, big or small,” Booth notes. “I have a realistic approach and a healthy work ethic to see this continue for me.” Judge Lefebvre says what really stands out about Booth is that she is choosing still to live in Windsor, even though she’s shooting in Montreal and all over North America. “She is bringing major recognition to the talent here in our region, as just in the last year she has become a very accomplished artist,” he states. In the future, she’s looking forward to having a lead role in a long-running TV series. “I also plan to continue bringing film productions to Windsor, some of which I will act in,” adds Booth. “The growth of the Windsor film community has come a long way since I began producing here in 2013 and I am very much looking forward to continuing to help that growth.” To see specific examples, a collection of her work can be found on: Linktr.ee/SarahFilmBooth.

Due to a conflict, Judge Vachon did not vote or take part in any discussion in this category.

Booth on the set of Three Pines in her role as rookie detective Yvette Nichol.

Photo courtesy of Laurent Guerin.

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10. Exceptional Social Enterprise (A team of workers at a non-profit organization or registered charity making a big difference in our community.)

The nominees are . . .

Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission, AburgMission.ca BANA (Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association), Bana.ca Bike Windsor Essex - Windsor Bike Kitchen, BikeWindsorEssex.com Community Support Centre Of Essex County, CommunitySupportCentre.ca House Youth Centre, TheHouseYouthCentre.com Julien’s House, JuliensHouse.ca Lola’s Roundtable, LolasRoundTable.com Matthew House Refugee Welcome Centre, MatthewHouseWindsor.org Noah’s Mental Health Foundation and Fight For Life, NoahsHouse.ca Oneday Dreams, OneDayDreams.ca Optimist Club Of St. Clair Beach, OptimistSCB.org Riverfront Theatre Company, RiverFrontTheatreCompany.com Street Help, Street-Help.com The May Court Club, Windsor WindsorMayCourt.com Ursa Major, UMlsc.org Windsor Dance eXperience Inc., WindsorDanceExperience.ca Windsor Lawn Bowling Club, WLBC.ca Windsor Symphony Orchestra, WindsorSymphony.com Windsor Women Supporting Women, Facebook.com/WindsorWomenSupportingWomen Windsor-Essex Supporting Ukrainian Newcomers (WESUN), WESUN.ca And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

The May Court Club Established in 1934 as a women’s service club, The May Court Club is one of Windsor’s oldest volunteer organizations whose main purpose is to better the lives of people in the community. “We are a completely volunteerrun charity with 120 members,” describes Club President, Sharon Pyke. “We provide funding to local organizations that work with children and we raise funds throughout the year through a very profitable thrift shoppe and various fundraisers (such as garden tours, annual Christmas tea, special luncheons).”

The May Court Club owns their own building and they don’t have any paid staff. In 2023 they gave away $50,000 to 19 local children’s organizations. “During an age before

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The volunteers at The May Court Club are all about making life better for people in the community, especially children.

(Left) Martha Robinson (also Publicity Director) serves customer Delores Atkinson inside their thrift shoppe.

(Right) Two of the Friday volunteers, Kathy Hanson and Katie Masonovich. Photos courtesy of The May Court Club.

any public welfare system, May Court set up a thrift shop, a day nursery, a prenatal clinic and a food program for undernourished children in our community,” nominator Linda M. writes about the club’s history. She adds, “It initiated the first school breakfast programs here before the Province came on board.”

The Club has continued to financially support various causes that work with children and youth in the community, such as the WindsorEssex Therapeutic Riding Association, Downtown Mission, Windsor Youth Centre, Family Respite Services, John McGivney Children’s Centre, Windsor Residence for Young Men and more. “Our thrift shoppe provides very reasonably priced clothing and housewares to help families who need assistance,” explains Pyke. “We are always happy to help anyone in need. Street Help, Street Angels and Divine Mercy are often helped with donations of clothing from The May Court Shoppe.” Pyke expresses that all club volunteers have a very big heart and if there’s a child in need, they will do all they can to help. “As we’ve been doing for almost 90 years” she declares. But, they also lend a hand to people of all ages who need help.

Pyke recalls that recently a man came in to the shoppe with no shoes. “We happily found him shoes and clothes and he left feeling so grateful and looking great,” she reports.

“The next day we had a woman come in who

was getting her own apartment with help from Glengarry Community Lighthouse. We put together a box of items she needed to set up her kitchen. Her smile and thanks are why we keep doing what we do.” The club has partnered with New Beginnings and Hiatus House to give their clients gift certificates for their shoppe, as well. “It is so heartwarming to have these clients come to us, and we can help,” she states. They’ve also partnered with The Welcome Centre to assist in setting up their play room in their new home, and they give donations of fabric to the Cancer Clinic where their volunteers make lap throws or bandanas for the patients. Pyke believes The May Court Club is unique because it is completely volunteer run, and their members truly feel a sense of purpose with the work they do. And as people get older, this feeling of connecting with others is so very important.

Nominator Gina M. has been a volunteer for the past year and can’t believe what she sees on a daily basis. “Not only are the women who volunteer there (the average age is 70) given a purpose in life and a reason to give back to their community and a good, warm feeling of accomplishment, but the people who shop at The May Court Club Shoppe are welcomed with respect, dignity and sheer joy,” she writes. “The store itself is kept very tidy and clean, so everyone who walks through the door knows they’re important enough that

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these volunteers want them to experience their time at May Court in a pleasant environment.

Whether they are a new immigrant family, a low-income family, a university student, a single mother, a homeless man, an environmentalist, or a thrifter, they know they will receive a smile, kind encouragement and a wave goodbye.” For a list of upcoming events log on to: WindsorMayCourt.com.

11. Dynamic Duo (A couple who own a business and live together personally.)

The nominees are . . .

Dave & Rachel Aziz, Acorn And Oak Coffee Company, 23 Victoria Ave., Essex Derek & Nicole Anderson, Ignite Health, 1825 Manning Rd., Tecumseh Jeff & Christie Denomme, Halo Heats, HaloHeats.com, Windsor John & Julie Fase, Comfort Mobility Inc., 2707 Temple Drive, Windsor Nicholas & Rhoda Udumukwu, Two Men And A Truck, 2825 Lauzon Parkway, Unit 202, Windsor Philip & Natalie Pare, Authentic Coatings, Facebook.com/AuthenticCoatings, LaSalle, Todd Miner & Karen Crone, Porchlight Home Services, PorchLightHomeServices.ca, Windsor Wilmer Hernandez Palacio & Caterine Arboleda Munoz, Montaneros Coffee Corp, 1341 Grand Marais Rd. West, Windsor And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Jeff & Christie Denomme, Halo Heats In September 2021 Jeff (40) and Christie (34) Denomme, started their gourmet hot sauce business, Halo Heats. “We produce exceptional products free of fillers and added sugar,” the husband and wife team describe. “We are extremely proud of this as the use of vinegar,

water and refined sugars are very common in hot sauce products, industry-wide.” They add that it is extremely uncommon to find hot sauces that are made without any vinegar and they achieve this by fermenting all of their sauces, a process they say is time-intensive and takes a lot of care. “These features continue to separate us from our competition, especially when our products are compared alongside other hot sauces at festivals and expos,” the couple comments. This dynamic duo has been together since 2016 and married since 2017. They started Halo Heats during the pandemic and the couple points out: “Like many others, our lives had changed drastically and we decided to pursue something in food production, as that was one of the industries that was pandemic proof.” They became involved in hot sauce specifically because Jeff had owned a small hot sauce company years ago — and they were able to apply his previous knowledge along with many of the lessons he had learned to develop a more intentional brand and product line. Their flavours include Spicy Red Pepper, Spicy Mango Pineapple and Spicy Pickle. “We release limited edition flavours from time to time, our most popular of which being our award-winning Spicy Olive,” they state, adding they also sell a bit of merch such as sweatshirts, t-shirts and hats. In addition to Halo Heats, they are also

the founders and producers of Windsor’s first ever hot sauce event, Heatseeker Hot Sauce Festival, which was held in May 2023. “For this first-time event, without any sponsors or outside support, we were able to attract more than 20 vendors and close to 1,000 attendees,” the couple proudly reports. “We received

incredible feedback from the hot sauce makers who participated, and they are all eager for us to host the event again in spring 2024.” The business received a very high number of votes in the voting poll for this category — many agreeing with the Judging panel on why they should receive the Biz X Award. By trade, Jeff is a graphic designer, specializing in brand identity. He works with small businesses to develop or elevate their branding and also offers printing services. He is also a talented artist, specializing in digital illustration, paintings and murals — several of which can be seen around Windsor Essex. Christie is a graduate of St. Clair College in the Public Relations program and has experience working in marketing and event planning.

The pair recalls one instance where they were able to execute superior customer service.

They had received a direct message, through social media, from one of their followers, reporting they were shopping at Fred’s Farm Fresh International Market and wanting to purchase some Halo Heats products, but they were out of stock. “Within an hour, we were able to fully restock our retailer and also personally deliver an order to this person at his home,” they indicate. “He was beyond thrilled with our quick response online, as well as how quickly we were able to get him his order.” Their sauces have received several

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Christie and Jeff Denomme of Halo Heats, certainly are steaming things up in the hot sauce biz! Photo courtesy of Syx Langemann.

awards, including in 2021, the Spicy Pickle, earning the Audience Choice Award at the Heatwave Expo in London, ON and in 2023, their Spicy Olive won most unique flavour at the Chatham Kent Hot Sauce Expo. Last year they were the recipients of the Small Biz eXcellence award from Biz X magazine, Libro Credit Union and the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre. The pair give back in the community by continuously donating their products for fundraisers and events across the region. “In the future, we plan to expand into other markets (currently, we are in retailers across Ontario), including nationwide,” they mention. “We also hope to one day open our own production facility, as we are currently sharing commercial kitchen space.” To see a list of their retail locations, or shop online, check: HaloHeats.com.

Jon Sparling is definitely the paralegal in the frame.

Photo courtesy of Khoa Nguye.

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Jon Sparling, Sparling Paralegal Jon Sparling opened Sparling Paralegal in June 2011, offering legal services, mostly in the areas of Small Claims Court (unpaid invoices, debt collection, faulty workmanship, etc.) and Landlord/Tenant Board matters (evictions, rent increases, late rent and more). He believes his greatest advantage as a Paralegal is his experience and the ability it gives him to relate to clients. “My father was a landlord, and I can’t remember a time when buying, renovating, selling or renting a house wasn’t a major focus of family life and business,” he comments. “Being a landlord now myself, I feel I’m well equipped to appreciate, not only the business, but personal strains the clients are experiencing.” As a fourth generation landlord and son of a home builder, Sparling paid his way through school, working in construction.

“I have practical work experience in all, or nearly every aspect of residential renovation, new home building, leases (creating and

terminating), quoting for construction projects, and managing a work crew,” he describes.

“Many of the cases I deal with in my small claims practice are related to construction work. So pairing my legal and practical experience provides me with insight that only some expect in my profession.” Sparling also offers a comprehensive blog that addresses common issues and questions relating to landlord/tenant and small claims matters.

“It’s my view that everyone is better off when they are well informed about their rights and responsibilities,” he asserts. His company employs one other paralegal (Evan Will, with the firm since 2018) and together, they tend to 110 to 150 open files at any given time. They are members of the Law Society of Ontario and the Ontario Paralegal Association and Sparling sits as the Secretary to the Board of Directors of Iona College at the University of Windsor, which is a not-for-profit and an academic institution. “We assist as best we can with legal and practical issues,” he notes.

“We also provide free seminars and talks to community groups related to Landlord Tenant Board rules.” They can also handle traffic tickets. Sparling earned his Honours Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Windsor and earned a Diploma in Paralegal Studies at St. Clair College. The costs for their services are highly variable, he says, but they have hourly rates, as well as flat fees.

“The average small claims action will cost approximately $3,000 if one full day of trial is required, and the average Landlord Tenant matter is approximately $750 to $1,100 plus filing fees, process servers, etc.,” he explains.

Sparling describes his personality as direct and honest. He is the first point of contact for all inquiries that come through his practice, which he says allows him to provide clients and potential clients with insightful advice about the strengths and weaknesses of their cases. “Court isn’t just expensive, it is timeconsuming and — for most — emotionally draining,” he comments. “Clients need and deserve upfront information to decide whether moving forward with a case is financially, practically, or emotionally in their best interest.” Sparling indicates his business model goes a long way to avoid high-pressure sales.

“I recognize that no one calls my office when

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12. The #1 Paralegal Who’s In It To Win It (Your money matters, so when you need to collect from an unpaid client, this is the trusted paralegal to hire.)

The nominees are . . .

Brenell Dean, Dean’s Paralegal Services & Lawyers, 7033 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor John Kulikowski, Resolute Legal Services, ParalegalWindsor.ca, Windsor Jon Sparling, Sparling Paralegal, 1368 Ouellette Ave., Suite 402, Windsor Kristen Jarvis, Legacy Legal Services LLP, 2557 Dougall Ave., Unit 1, Windsor

they are having a good day, so the last thing anyone needs is to encourage emotion to make a big decision for them,” he states. “We like to call it a client-directed process.” Sparling mentions they are always truthful and up-front with their clients and in every first-time call, he makes it clear that his purpose is not to judge them or be rude, but to convey what they need to know as efficiently and directly as possible so they can make their own decisions. “We are adamant that our clients understand as early as possible what we can and cannot do for them, their chances of success and how much it is likely to cost,” he emphasizes. “Most of the reviews on our Google business profile tend to describe us as ‘straightforward.’ Every time I make one of those people feel better, I’m living up to what I want my customer service to be.” For further details on his business visit the website: WindsorParalegal.com.

Judge Pinard abstained from voting in this category.

13. F avourite Bartender Who Calls All The Right Shots (An energetic, hard-working individual, who is attentive to customers, is a master of mixology and has a great attitude.)

The nominees are . . .

Chucky Mady, Tequila Bob’s, 576 Ouellette Ave., Upper, Windsor and ARIIUS Night Club (Caesars Windsor) Greg Gnyp, The Manchester Pub, 546 Ouellette Ave., Windsor Lynsay Williamson, The Hideout Bar & Grill, 989 Front Rd., LaSalle Mark Dutka, Maiden Lane Wine & Spirits, 494 Pelissier St., Windsor Mark Hawken, Walkerville Eatery, 911 Walker Rd., Windsor Megan Weigl, Chuck’s Roadhouse Essex, 346 Talbot St. North, Essex Rita Musa, Good Time Charly Bar & Grill, 4715 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Mark Hawken, Walkerville Eatery Known as the “singing bartender,” Mark Hawken entertains customers with his vocal talents while serving up fun to drink beverages. As Owner of Walkerville Eatery, he describes the atmosphere inside his business on Saturday afternoons and evenings as “electric”. “We provide a laid back interactive atmosphere where guests can request songs from their table with the Jukebooks.ca app and it appears on an iPad to me at the bar, and I perform their song while I make their drinks,” explains Hawken, adding he covers all

kinds of music from Frank Sinatra to Led Zeppelin. “Whatever the guests want, they get.” Hawken opened Walkerville Eatery in May 2016, but he has been in the hospitality industry for more than 35 years — in the early years as a bartender for establishments such as the Victoria Tavern. He likes taking bartending to a different, entertaining and interactive level. “Audience participation is the key to a wonderful engaging vibe,” he expresses. “High volume, multitasking bartending with a twist!” Hawken says that his superior customer service is achieved by providing quality, quick service behind the bar. “Being able to sing a song to my guests, while serving them a special drink is everything to me,” he states. And he always makes sure he can uplift his customers and give them an opportunity to have a good time in any way that makes them happy. “Guest satisfaction in whatever way necessary is my goal,” comments Hawken. He points out his Caesars are his signature drinks.

“A menu with Caesars ranging from $10 to $100 that guests drive from all over Essex County to enjoy, is what I’m known for,”

Mark Hawken, Owner of Walkerville Eatery and also their singing bartender, shows off his most popular seller, The Ridiculous & Obnoxious Caesar for two.

Photo courtesy of Mark Hawken.

he says. Being able to be creative and offer a unique customer experience while bartending, is something Hawken thoroughly takes pleasure in, and the response from the community has been overwhelming in the past several years. “Bartending is the best and most enjoyable way to interact with people and that is what I love about it,” he tells Biz X. “I will continue bartending, and entertaining while I am doing so, for as long as it is enjoyable and the guests like it!”

Go to: WalkervilleEatery.com to view the drink menu and food items available, such as wood fired pizzas, sliders and more. And to see an example of Hawken serenading customers while making his most popular seller — The Ridiculous & Obnoxious Caesar for two — go to the following link: YouTube.com/watch?v=l4qvA4TfyXw. Judge Pinard did not vote or take part in any discussion in this category due to a conflict of interest.

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14. The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2023

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(Open to all retailers with good prices, fantastic customer service and selection.) *No online only retailers were allowed to participate.

The nominees are . . .

Country Bliss (Gift Shop), 233 Dalhousie St., Amherstburg Dressed By An Olive, 13029 Tecumseh Rd. East, Unit 1, Tecumseh Little Foot Foods, 2010 Fasan Drive, Oldcastle Musicland, 59 Richmond St., Amherstburg Re-lighting, 10 Renaud Drive, Amherstburg Smudge, 553 Lincoln Rd., Windsor Tagged It Paper Co., 76 Talbot St. North, Essex Terra Green Gardens, 264 Dalhousie St., Amherstburg The Cheese Bar, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 29-30B, Tecumseh The Good Life, 1141 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh The Little Petal Truck Shop, 1670 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor Three + Me (Gift Shop), 573A Notre Dame St., Belle River Union Vision Center, 595 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor White Woods Home, 63 Richmond St., Amherstburg

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YEAR 26: PICTURE PERFECT but it has also become a creative outlet and extension of ourselves. To see the shop is to fall in love with the quaint and ever-changing inventory and attention to detail.” The dream began shortly after a European vacation when their parents witnessed goods for sale in small trucks at many fresh produce and flower markets. Upon their return home, the family came across a K-truck being sold on the side of the road and their dad fixed it up just like the ones in the Italian markets. And thus, The Little Petal Truck was born in June 2022.

“After completing our first market season with our truck in the fall of 2022, we knew that we

wanted to find a way to continue to bring our love of fresh flowers to the community, so we can still work when the weather does not allow for the truck to be out,” the owners explain.

“This is how we came to open The Little Petal Truck Shop in December 2022.” What began as a passion project for the Young family has blossomed into a destination to select and arrange your own fresh cut flowers. Their 800 square foot Walkerville storefront boasts a unique flower bar, where all flower varieties are priced out by stem. Customers come in to create their own arrangements — completely unique to themselves — with as little or as much assistance from staff as they’d like. “While fresh cut flowers are our primary focus, The Little Petal Truck Shop has become a creative outlet for us, and our inventory is constantly changing to include new creative ventures of our own, as well as others,” the owners tell Biz X. “In addition to fresh cut flowers and premade floral arrangements, we offer an assortment of potted plants, dried flower arrangements

The Little Petal Truck Shop Co-owner and Florist Becky Young, teaches a workshop at their location on how to put together an amazing centrepiece. Photo courtesy of The Little Petal Truck Shop.

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

The Little Petal Truck Shop “The Little Petal Truck Shop is a labour of love that we pour our heart and souls into each and every day,” say sisters Becky Young, Maggie Young and their sister in-law Kylie Young, Owners of The Little Petal Truck Shop. “Not only does it bring us such joy to share our love and passion for all things flowers with others,

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the 26th annual Biz X Awards.

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Isn’t Kylie Young, Co-owner of The Little Petal Truck Shop, pretty as a picture? She is shown inside the garage at the shop where the walk-in cooler is set up with all kinds of colourful flowers. Photo courtesy of The Little Petal Truck Shop.

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and wreaths, and a propagation centre. We also collaborate with, and support other local businesses, by carrying and selling their products in our store.” These include fertilizer (Garant Greens), soap (twig + bloom SOAP CO.), candles (Mill Creek Candle Company), as well as cards, teas, chocolates, and a collection of other home-good items.

“They specialize in stunning bouquets and mason jar arrangements,” writes nominator Christina M. “Custom orders, deliveries and your special events are just the beginning of what they can do.” Different workshops that teach participants to create their own floral arrangements, assemble holiday centrepieces and planters, are also offered.

In addition, a second K-truck will soon be on the road so they can be at two places on the same day, whether they are markets, fairs or private events. For further details about this flourishing new business visit: TheLittlePetalTruck.com.

15. Distinctive Door Dealer (It’s an open and shut category, a business selling residential and commercial doors and possibly garage doors too!)

The nominees are . . .

Bayview Glass & Mirror, 1455 Matthew Brady Blvd., Windsor Expert Windows Doors Roofing & Siding, 2775 Kew Drive, Unit 20, Windsor Guaranteed Windows, 2885 Lauzon Parkway, Unit 102, Windsor Martindale Window & Door, 2895 Kew Drive, Windsor Meloche Windows & Doors, 6144 Morton Industrial Parkway, LaSalle Rocksolid Windows & Doors Ltd., 4215 Seventh Concession, Unit 1, Windsor And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Martindale Window & Door Opened back in 1943, Martindale Window & Door prides themselves on making doors that will last, in a variety of different materials.

“We have been locally owned and operated for 80 years,” notes Owner Pat Martindale.

“Our showroom and manufacturing area can showcase all the different doors that we have available.” These include front doors, terrace, patio and bi-fold doors (essentially every kind of door except overhead garage doors). Materials include wood, steel and fibreglass with prices from $600 to $35,000 plus. There are also many glass choices, ranging from different low-e coated glass, to decorative and obscure. All doors are custom

made to order, but they do have standard size offerings. Their 24 employees work in their approximately 6,000 square foot showroom, while subcontractors are hired for the installation. Most of their customers are local builders, and many new homes showcase their products. The company’s attention to detail and putting the customer first is one of their greatest strengths. “We deal with a lot of

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Pictured is a sample of a custom wood door with an arched top, by Martindale Window & Door. Arched doors are expensive, but are being designed for a lot of new homes now. Photo courtesy of Martindale Window & Door.

new construction sales, where the product is installed by the framers/carpenters who are building the house,” says Scott Martindale (Pat’s son), President of Martindale Window & Door. “They often don’t do a great job installing these items, so we often go back and fix these issues so the customer doesn’t have any issues with their windows or doors.”

They are a member of the Chatham-Kent Home Builders’ Association and they also support many local hockey, baseball and dance teams. In the future, they hope to develop new products that will work better with climate changes. According to nominator Charlie H.: “This third-generation, familyowned local business is a highly respected window and door manufacturer of top quality and innovative products. Their products are a popular choice for windows and doors by some of the area’s finest and biggest home builders and their service to the home building industries is second to none!” To read about door choices for your home or office refer to: MartindaleWindow.com.

Judges Barker and Goulet had conflicts of interest in this category and did not participate in any conversation or the final vote.

Savvy Boutique, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 13A, Tecumseh Towne Shoppe, 56 Richmond St., Amherstburg

The nominees are . . .

Anne’s On The Avenue, 1695 Manning Rd., Unit 180, Tecumseh Audrey’s Closet & Company, 1585 Wyandotte St. East, Unit 2, Windsor Closet Cravings, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 10A, Tecumseh Rain Fitness Boutique, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 9A, Tecumseh

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Anne’s On The Avenue Since 1989, Anne’s On The Avenue has been a renowned destination for women seeking contemporary, classic, or cutting-edge fashion in Windsor and Essex County. Though the business has moved locations over the years, their mission and customer-centric approach remain the same. The owner recognizes that a woman’s wardrobe is more than just clothing; it’s a means of expressing individual style and confidence. The boutique’s mission is to assist clients in selecting pieces that not only align with the latest fashion trends, but also complement their unique needs and enhance their natural beauty. Originally located in downtown Windsor — with a second Tecumseh location opening up in 1994, then consolidating to one store in 2001 in Tecumseh, and a move in 2014 — the current 2,400 square foot boutique on Manning Road near E.C. Row in the East Pointe Trails Plaza, features a diverse designer selection, including Frank Lyman, ByLyse, Bali Corp., Rapz, De Vai, Pure Essence, Pretty Women Designs, Luc Fontaine, Marble from Scotland, Lotus Eaters from Greece, Made in Italy, FDJ French Dressing Jeans, Charlie B, Orly International, Suzie Blue, Ken Bell Designs and lots more. This diverse line-up ensures there is something for every taste, from classic to cutting-edge fashion. The staff of seven offer an extensive collection that allows clients to personalize their outfits and express their unique style. Clothing items in stock include jeans, capris, dress pants, cargo pants, evening pants, tops, tunics, leggings, suits, sundresses, day dresses, evening wear, mother of the bride outfits, coats, jackets, and shawls. Accessories include purses, earrings, necklaces, hair accessories, bracelets, scarves, and evening bags. The boutique is committed to offering inclusive sizing ranging from size

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16. Fabulous Fashion Finds (From office attire to a night out on the town, the boutique to visit for a large variety of casual clothing.) *This category was for businesses selling women’s fashions only.

two to 22, XS to XXXL, which ensures they cater to a broad spectrum of clients, including working women, busy moms, and career women of all body types and sizes. “Our resilience and adaptability in transitioning to online platforms and our commitment to engaging with customers through live fashion shows, have been key factors in our ability to not only survive, but thrive, during challenging times,” expresses Anne Waters, President/CEO of Anne’s On The Avenue. “Our innovative approach serves as an excellent example of how businesses can adapt to changing circumstances and continue to connect with their audience, while still providing unique quality fashions in an everchanging retail environment.” They provide a wide range of services to enhance the shopping experience, such as online fashion shows/ presentations (via Facebook and Instagram live), live communication during and after events (questions, feedback, and engagement with the store team), personal shopping, trunk shows, sip & shop events, friends and family nights, networking opportunities, fundraisers, discounts, virtual shopping, and free gift wrapping! Nominators and Judges agree this business has the best selection around and it’s obvious how proud the employees are about their amazing leader, Anne. “I have been a part of the Anne’s on the Avenue fashion family for over 30 years and in that time, I have watched this incredible woman, Anne Waters, develop a store that has withstood the test of time — surviving any and all business issues that could have been thrown at it, from recessions, a pandemic, weather related floods, and building related issues with fires,” says staff member Tylene Stephen. “From building successful brick-and-mortar stores and now moving with the times to build a successful online site, nothing stops Anne from having the best fashion finds around.” Anne’s on the Avenue has received several notable awards and recognitions over the years, including two Biz X Awards — Accessory Shop That’s Forever In Fashion (2008) and Trendiest Fashion Boutique (2016). Waters and her team

17. Promo Product Pros (The promotional product company that can put your logo on absolutely anything and/or offers a large selection of corporate gift ideas.)

The nominees are . . .

Hogan’s Printing, 1194 Hanna St. East, Windsor M&M Designs, 3395 Howard Ave., Unit 11, Windsor Silver Stitch, 1304 Lauzon Rd., Windsor Tribal Printing, 1662 Ottawa St., Windsor

In Honour of the Ones We Love. Waters has big plans for the future of her business, including the recent revamp of their website: AnnesOnTheAvenue.com which now adds to the user-friendly online experience; updating their brick-and-mortar appearance, and staff training in technology.

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

M&M Designs A one-stop-shop for all your promotional, branding and printing needs, M&M Designs opened its doors in the summer of 2008. “Our motto is ‘if you can think it, we can ink it’ and our clients appreciate our dedication to service,” mention Mike Ngo and Minh Tran, Owners of M&M Designs. “We take care of everything from the minute you place an order until it is delivered. We value the relationships we’ve built over the years, which is reflected in repeated business

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Anne Waters, President/CEO of Anne’s On The Avenue strikes a pose inside her boutique that is a destination for fashionconscious women to express their style, confidence and individuality. Photo courtesy of Anne’s On The Avenue.

are proud supporters of many local charities and non-profit community organizations like: The Downtown Mission, Street Help, Transition to Betterness, Do Good Divas, WEST, Brain Injury Association, Hiatus House, Windsor Essex Community Foundation, Alzheimer Society and

from our diverse set of clients.” M&M Designs can put your logo on virtually any product including pens, stuffed animals, signs, banners, apparel, accessories and business stationery. They offer screen printing, embroidery, vinyl decoration, laser transfers and more. “The strangest product we’ve done were spy glasses for an insurance company,” the couple points out, adding that popular promo items include writing instruments, bags, drinkware and apparel.”

When they started as a family run business of two, they handled everything in house.

Today, promo items are completed by their suppliers with signs done in-house, as well as some apparel and accessories. The process takes roughly three weeks, so customers are urged to order in advance, no matter what the order size may be. Although they have a showroom and store, their orders are done almost completely by email, from start to finish. Clients only come in when they need to see samples or would like to discuss a project in detail. They can also deliver or ship samples directly to clients and do phone consultations as well. “We feel our business is unique and has the staying power to last through the years because of our dedication to our clients and the way we strive to offer service that is second to none,” state the couple. “We are also on top of trends in our industry and continue to learn daily from our clients and suppliers.” The business offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, free delivery to anywhere in Canada and the USA, no set-up fees, and free samples upon request.

In the future, M&M Designs plans to create a website that is completely capable of taking orders online and to expand their business into different sectors of Essex County.

“When it comes to promotional materials, Minh and Mike from M&M Designs set the benchmark for excellence,” writes nominator Luciana S. “From start to finish, they are true professionals — efficient, providing excellent customer service, while truly understanding the importance of helping

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their customers build brand strength and visibility. Whether it’s a one-off item or an entire campaign, they will always work tirelessly to bring a vision to reality.” Check their website: Gifts-Promotions.com to view all the different types of promotional items for your logo in time for the holidays now!

Judge Vachon had a bias and was not involved in any discussion or vote in this category.

18. J ewellery Store That Sets A Shining Example (The jewel in the crown of all local gem shops.)

The nominees are . . .

Abraham’s Jewellery, 7385 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor Antoyan Jewellers, 13300 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh Joseph Anthony, 100 Eugenie St. West, Windsor Shanfields-Meyers Jewellery & China Shop, 188 Ouellette Ave., Windsor TIME Jewelers, 2430 Dougall Ave. (inside Real Canadian Superstore), Windsor Wharram’s Jewellery, 21 Talbot St. West, Leamington Zareh’s Jewellery, 2814 Howard Ave., Unit 3, Windsor And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Wharram’s Jewellery The late J. Russel Wharram opened Wharram’s Jewellery in 1955, offering watches and jewellery items as well as custom design services. “We are a pillar in the Leamington community and have served it with integrity and passion for almost seven decades,” says Wayne Wharram, Owner of Wharram’s Jewellery and Russel’s son.

“We are now in our third generation (under my daughter Jessica Wharram) and plan

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Wharram’s Jewellery in Leamington is truly a beautiful historical landmark and a great photo-op!

on continuing to expand our exclusive lines while creating one-of-a-kind pieces for people in our community. We feverishly support other businesses in this town, and truly believe that this support for local is of the utmost importance.” Inside the 3,600 square foot space, customers can find fine karat gold jewellery, sterling silver jewellery, stainless steel jewellery, watches, home décor, jewellery boxes and storage, and permanent jewellery, as well as jewellery repair and custom design (allowing memories and family heirlooms to be re-designed and enjoyed by multiple generations). They also provide many ways to shop, including in-person, online, over the phone, and during the pandemic — curbside pickup and delivery. Their highly trained staff of 10 are always eager to assist their customers. “In the first initial weeks that a new staff member joins our team, they work hand-in-hand with both our managers who specialize in different aspects of the business,” Jessica explains.

“This method of training ensures that each staff member receives the highest degree of training right from the experts themselves; it also guarantees they receive the same knowledge and experience as all the previous staff members did. Our staff are also given

(TOP) Now in its third generation of a family business, Jessica Wharram is a proficient designer with an eye for beauty that she inherited from both her parents.

Jessica’s one-of-a-kind pieces are a huge part of what the store has to offer. (BOTTOM) Items from the bridalinspired jewellery collection of Tulle & Lace, one of four lines exclusive to Wharram’s Jewellery. Photos courtesy of Wharram’s Jewellery.

the opportunity to further their education by completing highly recognized degrees in the jewellery industry, such as Graduate

Jewellery, and Graduate Gemologist, which most of our staff have completed.” Multiple nominators all agree, “The Wharram’s staff are kind, patient and knowledgeable . . . the service is always outstanding, the prices are fair and all products are high quality jewellery items.” Whether it’s understanding the importance of a client’s budget and trying their hardest to find options that work for them, working one-on-one with customers to create a unique designed piece that would last for generations, or making sure that every momentous occasion is celebrated — their exceptional customer service is the reason why they are still here to this day and will be, well into the future. It also earned them a Biz X Award in 2007 for The Jewellery Boutique That Says Yes and now, 16 years later, they have been crowned the winner again for this industry. “We have been through a lot of change in the last few years, and one of the things we have very much enjoyed, since the pandemic, has been manufacturing our own product within Canada,” Jessica comments.

“Our in-house designer is releasing new product and new lines semi-annually and we are very excited to continue this, moving forward. We have also introduced permanent jewellery this year.” For more information and to shop online visit their website: WharramsJewellery.com.

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19. Pet Supply Paradise (Everything under one woof! Pet food, toys, accessories and more.)

The nominees are . . .

For Your Fur Kids, 9889 Tecumseh Rd. East and 650 Division Rd., Unit 106A, Windsor Pawsitively A Dog Thing, 2940 Curry Ave., Windsor Sam’s Pampered Pets, 616 Notre Dame St., Belle River The Hungry Pooch, 2451A Dougall Ave., Windsor and 486 Advance Blvd., #110, Tecumseh And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

For Your Fur Kids Operating as of 2008, For Your Fur Kids was Windsor’s first local pet speciality retailer selling raw diets, premium dry foods, supplements and gourmet dog cookies. “We started with a modest 1,300 square foot store with grooming services on Walker Road, and built up to a 3,000 square foot store (Division Road in the Union Square Plaza) with grooming services, a self-serve dog wash, and a second location in summer 2017

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on the east end of town (2,000 sq. feet in the Tecumseh Road East Gladeview Plaza),” recounts Victor Pundzius, Owner of For Your Fur Kids along with his wife Kathy. “We are well known for our exceptional customer service, which is why we have customers that have been shopping with us since our humble beginnings.

My wife and I are friendly, honest, hardworking people and our staff of seven maintains the same work ethic so that our customers feel right at home while shopping with us.” For Your Fur Kids carries frozen raw diets, gently cooked diets, dehydrated diets, freeze dried diets, supplements for any ailment, CBD for nervous pets/pain relief, tons of treat options (including fancy gourmet cookies for special occasions), grooming supplies (including shampoos and grooming tools), a variety of toys, a large selection of accessories — including collars, harnesses and leashes, My Family Pet ID Tag engraving, pet themed gift items, greeting cards and memorial items, plus so much more!

“We are very particular on the foods we carry so we do research on the companies to ensure they are honest and ethical,” says Pundzius.

“We prefer brands that make their foods in-house and are not outsourced for manufacture to third parties, so they can ensure their ingredients are from quality sources. We stay away from corporate brands that put their resources into marketing instead of quality

ingredients; we also like to offer toys that are made in the USA, such as Kong and West Paw, rather than those made in China, wherever possible.” Other pet food brands include Fromm, Farmina N&D, SquarePet, Horizon Complete, Zignature, Orijen and Acana. All their pet foods are 100% guaranteed — they can be returned for any reason, even if the bag is opened! “They truly love pets and recognize how much pets are part of the family,” expresses Judge Rourke. “They are local (whereas many others in the pet food business are big chains) and love to have pets and owners visit their store!”

Customers are treated like family and staff even greet them by name when they enter the store and carry out heavy pet food bags when needed.

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The owners of For Your Fur Kids, Victor and Kathy Pundzius, are photographed inside the Division Road location with their own fur kids — Gemma and Jaxon, Smooth Fox Terriers and Thor, a Bouvier des Flandres. Photo courtesy of For Your Fur Kids.

Everyone goes above and beyond to help the customers’ fur kids with any challenges they may be facing, like allergies, fussy eaters and even ailments, such as pancreatitis. Judge Willis adds: “The staff is very helpful in making recommendations for food, especially for animals with digestive issues. And they have a variety of top-quality products, as well as grooming services. Everything a pet owner needs is all under one roof!” The company also participates each year in the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest to introduce their business to pet lovers in the region. For the future, plans include possibly starting a delivery service. Further details on their products and online shopping can be found at: ForYourFurKids.com.

20. Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2023 (A new or an existing restaurant or takeout establishment with exceptional cuisine, fair prices and has a unique atmosphere.)

The nominees are . . .

Cranky Burger, 6082 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor Cucina 360, 58 Chatham St. West, Windsor Daawat Indian Cuisine, 2440 University Ave. West, Windsor Eastern Flavours, 4072 Walker Rd., Unit 5, Windsor Erie St Gastropub, 839 Erie St. East, Windsor Georgie’s Local Eatery, 307 Queen St., Harrow Kava Cafe & Bakery, 5841 Malden Rd., Unit 164, LaSalle Michigan Diner (Lauzon location), 7435 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor Oxley Estate Winery, 533 County Road 50 East, Harrow Pepper Cat, 239 Dalhousie St., Amherstburg Pomegranate Chinese Cuisine, 7816 Wyandotte St. East, Windsor Riccardo’s Italian Restaurant, 238 Dalhousie St., Amherstburg Smash Tomato, 1291 Wyandotte St. East, Unit 1, Windsor Souq Lebanese Grill, 2651 Howard Ave., Unit 1, Windsor Stathis Grill, 1657 College Ave., Windsor Tabouli By Eddy, 1614 Lesperance Rd., Unit F5, Tecumseh

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YEAR 26: PICTURE PERFECT The Panetteria Ltd., 248 Ramsay St., Amherstburg Whamburg, 401 California Ave., Windsor Zuleeats, 2760 Howard Ave., Windsor And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Cucina 360 Stepping into Cucina 360 is like walking through the streets of Italy! “Our Cucina 360 offers you a taste of authentic Italian cuisine,” describes Remo Tortola, Owner of Cucina 360. “It’s something that you would normally only experience in Italy!”

Opened in December of 2022, Cucina 360 was created as a separate entity out of a relationship with Oven 360 (nine locations in the region), a premium pizza franchise. The 4,000 square foot space at Cucina 360 seats 150 inside and 25 outside and can host all kinds of parties such as birthdays, engagements, bridal showers and anniversaries. The décor is a blend of modern and traditional Italian elements and

makes you feel right at home. Tortola and his staff of 25 credit their success to the fact that they are never afraid to try something new, even if it’s out of their comfort zone.

Head Chef Volodymyr Pyeshkov has been in the restaurant business since 2008 and has experience working in Italy as a Chef, Baker, and Pizza Maker. They specialize in traditional pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas (there’s that Oven 360 connection again!). Menu items include a diverse selection of pizzas, Fried Calamari, tortellini soup, Filet Mignon, Lamb Shank Con Polenta, Pollo Cacciatora (Roman style chicken with peppers), oven baked salmon, Branzino (Mediterranean sea bass), Veal Saltimbocca, gnocchi with meat sauce, spaghetti with clams and more! “The fact that Cucina 360 was born out of a pickup pizza place idea and transformed into an amazing trendy restaurant, has had an immediate impact on the neighbourhood,” comments Judge Pinard. “This eatery attracts people to the city centre that don’t normally go downtown and is definitely heating up the dining scene!” Nominators agree, all expressing how fantastic the atmosphere is and that the food is out of this world.

Cucina 360 also offers an extensive wine list, creative cocktail choices (Apple Cider Margaritas and Chai Espresso Martinis, for example) and homemade desserts. To view a menu, hours of operation and book a table, log onto: Cucina360.ca. For delivery to your home or workplace, look for them on the UberEats app.

Judge Vachon had a conflict of interest in this category and was exempt from voting.

21. Always Ready To Roll Sushi Spot (Simply the best sushi rolls around!)

The menu at Cucina 360 features a wide selection of authentic Italian dishes, such as these two culinary works of art: the Lamb Shank Con Polenta (left) and gnocchi with meat sauce (right). Rice balls are also pictured. Photos courtesy of Cucina 360.

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The nominees are . . .

Genki Sushi Noodle, 13504 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh Hikari Restaurant, 345 Victoria Ave., Windsor Kōna Sushi, 2090 Brant St., Windsor; 1224 Essex County Rd. 22, Lakeshore; 5965 Malden Rd., LaSalle, and 11977 Tecumseh Rd. East, Tecumseh Oishii Sushi, 7485 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor On A Roll Sushi & Sliders, 63 Pitt St. East, Windsor Salt Sushi, 25 Amy Croft Drive, Unit 31A, Tecumseh The Dragonfly Sushi Bar And Asian Street Food, 1567 Ottawa St., Windsor

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And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

On A Roll Sushi & Sliders Looking for a top-notch sushi spot for date night or an evening out with friends in downtown Windsor? Look no further than On A Roll Sushi & Sliders! Opened in April 2017, hands down they have the most experienced sushi chefs in the city, including George Stratis (17 years experience and also Owner of the company), Mike Zhao (16 years experience), Richie Ho (22 years experience), and Stevie Rhee (30 years experience). The business is also a past Biz X Award winner for Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2017. “Instead of following trends, we set them, by offering our gourmet sliders to complement our sushi — so there is something for everyone,” indicates Stratis, who started the restaurant with his father, the late (one and only) Lucky Stratis. “The extensive menu of cocktails is enjoyed while listening to the best live music in the city. This offers an atmosphere that can’t be matched.”

Their staff of 11 are highly professional and committed to attention to detail, which they credit as their key to success. They all want their customers to enjoy the unique environment while they work hard to provide superior service. “Amazing fresh sushi, tasty rolls and distinctive cocktails, served in a trendy atmosphere,” writes nominator Laurie R. “On A Roll Sushi & Sliders has excellent pricing and also are great contributors to our community.” Their sushi consists of traditional sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls. “Keeping tradition in mind, our specialty rolls are a tasty display of our craftsmanship to our trade,” Stratis notes.

“They are made properly by chefs that have been traditionally trained by master sushi chefs. Our level of skill and quality speaks for itself.” Your rock n’ roll feast is kickstarted with Crispy Cajun Calamari, Shrimp Tempura, Egg Rolls, and Seaweed Salad, just to name a few of the appetizers. Speciality rolls include Tiny Dancer (shrimp, crab and avocado, topped with salmon and baked); Baba O’Riley (smoked salmon, asparagus,

The nominees are . . .

Blackjack Gastrovan, Kingsville, BlackJackGastrovan.com

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Butchers On The Block, Windsor, ButchersOnTheBlock.com Frate Street Food, Windsor, Frate-Food.square.site Nats Wraps & Apps, Amherstburg, NatsWrapsAndApps.ca Rico Taco, Windsor, Instagram.com/RicoTacoWindsor The Frying Saucer, Windsor, M.facebook.com/people/The-FryingSaucer/100074012763185 The Waffel Truck, Oldcastle, TheWaffelTruck.com

Let the good times roll with a sushi platter from On A Roll Sushi & Sliders. From top to bottom: Barracuda (tuna, salmon); Baba O’Riley (smoked salmon); assorted sashimi and nigiri; Pink Cadillac (tuna and red pepper); Kashmir (tuna, red snapper) and Rocket Man (crab, tuna, salmon, red snapper). Photo courtesy of George Stratis.

cream cheese); Voodoo Child (tempura soft shell crab, cucumber); Crazy Train (shrimp tempura, eel, cucumber, avocado), and more! If you are not into sushi, they have an assortment of sliders, including the Magic Bus (lamb); Slow Ride (beef and mushrooms); Night Moves (panko crusted fried chicken); Fiddlers Green (grilled avocado and onions) and many others.

To find out their hours of operation and to see a full menu, visit: OnaRollSushi.ca. And if you don’t feel like going out, place your delivery order via: SkipTheDishes.

22. T he Food Truck That Drives Everyone Wild (Whether it’s on the move or stationary at one location, the food truck serving up amazing menu items.)

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Butchers On The Block Butchers On The Block serves an assortment of sandwiches, pulled pork, fried chicken, BBQ beef, poutine, garlic parm fries, fish tacos and their crowd favourite: deep-fried mac and cheese. “Here at Butchers On The Block we are a husband and wife team who have been operating our food truck and catering business for seven years now,” say Brian and Andrea John, Owners of Butchers On The Block. “Before we started the food truck, we each worked in kitchens for over 10 years. After meeting in Vancouver, it was shortly thereafter that we made the decision to move back to Ontario to try and start up our own business.” The couple always strive for freshness and quality, and people can see that for themselves, when they don’t just drop frozen items into the fryer for service. “Good food takes time and our customers have come to realize and enjoy the service we provide,” Brian and Andrea stress. “We also support local businesses by using bread from Blak’s Bakery, meats from Schwab’s & Primo’s, and produce from D. Pearl & Sons Produce.”

Nominators indicate that Butchers On The Block has absolutely incredible food every time — in fact, they write that the poutine is the best in town. It’s always delicious and consistent with great customer service. With the current bylaws Windsor has, it is hard to take a truck around to multiple locations.

However, they have built up a great

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Brian and Andrea John (shown on left) put the flavours in motion with their food truck, Butchers On The Block. The pair serves up some mouth watering items you’ll definitely want to take a picture of for your social media pages! (Top right) The Pork Sandwich consists of slow-smoked pulled pork, fried mac n’ cheese, coleslaw and homemade BBQ sauce.

(Bottom right) The Chicken Sandwich with fried chicken, ranch, greens, coleslaw and pickles. Photos courtesy of Brian John.

relationship with Schwab’s & Primo’s, where they park on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On Fridays they are parked in the west-end area by Williams Food Equipment, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Weekends are primarily booked with weddings, showers, and other private events. “At the start of the week we prepare food to stock the shelves at Schwab’s and Primo’s, Fred’s Farm Fresh, as well as Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery,” the pair note. “Being a food truck in Canada means that our business only operates seasonally, from roughly mid-April until about mid-November. After the truck gets parked, we switch our attention to catering drop-offs for the holidays.” If you want to “meat and get searious” with the owners, check the menu, and be updated on where this mobile food truck will stop next, go to: ButchersOnTheBlock.com.

permitted to be nominated as these categories were previously awarded. Airbnb (private residences) could not participate either.

The nominees are . . .

Lungovita Beach Retreat, 225 County Road 50 East, Harrow The Cedar House, 1033 Cedar Drive, Kingsville The Lake House Ontario, 23 Levergood Lane, Harrow The Little White Church, 7860 Essex County Road 20, Amherstburg The Lodge At Lakeshore, 1258 Essex County Road 22, Lakeshore

(A lake/beach house, cottage/cabin, lodge or houseboat for the perfect getaway.) *No hotels, motels, inns, or B&Bs were

And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

The Little White Church It’s been said that you always knew you were getting close to your county destination when you saw the little white church at the end of Howard Avenue. Since April of 2022, The Little White Church in Amherstburg has been converted into a boutique hotel experience. “When the building went up for sale, we didn’t want it to be torn down or just go to anybody,” mention Drew Coulson and Greg Grondin, Owners of The Little White Church. “We came up with the idea of a much-needed accommodation in the area and

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23. Charming Cottage Comfort

decided to create a beautiful boutique hotel from the building, which dates to 1892.”

Being a heritage building, they needed to keep the white siding, black roof, and window style. “The pandemic put a stop to the project, but the challenges gave us some time to put a little extra care into each suite,” Coulson and Grondin state. “So many people who were once part of the congregation can now walk through our doors and remember their past visits to this building.” As Judge Rourke points out, as well: “If you are from this area, this business is iconic and full of history.”

The Little White Church offers guests the option of choosing from one of eight unique, themed guest suites — The Detroit Suite: a loft style suite fitted with luxurious essentials to make your stay simply unforgettable, complete with a portrait of musician Bob Seger; The Paris Suite: perfect for romance, luxury, and relaxation; The Speakeasy Suite: the creativity and warm décor of this suite replicates aspects of historical speakeasies, making for a relaxing evening; The Vinyl Suite: an unmatched space accented with music memorabilia with a wall designed from only vinyl record covers; The True North Suite: equipped with a fireplace, large screen television; The Barge Suite: this one-of-akind suite is the perfect spot to end your day; The Wanderer Suite: after a day of wandering the beautiful surrounding communities, this upscale suite is an ideal retreat for an evening of peaceful bliss; and The Game On Suite: football fans will be in admiration viewing the blueprint wall of Soldier Field¸ a stadium in Chicago built in 1924. Guests arriving at The Little White Church have a private entrance to their suite. Each spacious suite is outfitted with high end luxury beds, linens, toiletries, a mini fridge, microwave, and Keurig beverage machine. Coffee and tea are supplied; however, guests are invited to bring their own favourites. A welcome book, with an abundance of information is supplied to each guest, featuring and promoting the greatness within Windsor and Essex County.

Out back is a shared area with picnic tables,

24. T he Most Wonderful Event Of The Year (Annual runs, golf tournaments, motorcycle rides, charity fundraisers, festivals, trade shows etc.) * Non-profits and charities could participate as an exception.

one of the many wineries in the surrounding area; in fact, our location is known as ‘the gateway to wine region.’” Judge Goulet adds: “The accommodations are remarkable, comfortable and each room is tastefully decorated in a cool theme. While the inside is impressive, the surrounding area outside has lots of perks as well, since it is close to GL Heritage Brewing Co., Dancing Swallows Vineyard, Wolfhead Distillery and Ure’s Country Kitchen, Ice Cream Parlour and Mini Golf.” To read more about their amenities and book your stay, head to: TheLittleWhiteChurch.com.

The nominees are . . .

A Blaze Of Story By Teajai Travis, Sacred Story Studio, Facebook.com/WordzandDrumz ?mibextid=zbwkwl Amherstburg Open Air Weekends, Town Of Amherstburg, VisitAmherstburg.ca/ events/amherstburg-open-air-weekends Brewing For Comedy Festival, Craft Heads Brewing Company, BrewingForComedy.ca ESHF Run And Roll, Erie Shores Health Foundation, RunAndRoll.RaceRoster.com International Women’s Day Gala, Women’s Enterprise Skills Training (WEST), WestOfWindsor.com/IWD LaSalle Strawberry Festival, Town Of LaSalle, LaSalle.ca/StrawberryFestival Ouellette Car Cruise, Downtown Windsor BIA, DowntownWindsor.ca/Cruise

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Put life in focus and get a little R&R at The Little White Church in Amherstburg. (Left) The building, beautifully lit during the evening hours. (Right) The Detroit Suite features a loft and depicts a large portrait of Detroit born singer/songwriter, Bob Seger. Photos courtesy of The Little White Church.

including shade umbrellas, to help you sit and unwind. For those needing to stay connected, they offer free high-speed WIFI. Whenever possible, they offer early checkin or late check-out, upon request. “Several guests have come back and stayed with us on more than one occasion and numerous guests have booked the entire building for family functions, work retreats, weddings and more,” the owners indicate. “We even had a bride marry her best friend on the front steps of the church, as the building was a childhood memory of hers. Others venture to The Little White Church after visiting

Run For Rocky Legacy Project, Windsor Pride Community, The Campana family, Facebook.com/RunForRocky Santa’s Village & Market, Town Of Essex (privately organized), Facebook.com/SantasVillageEssex W.E. Shop Local Show, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre, WEBusinessCentre.com/en/news-andevents/shop-local-show.aspx And the Biz X Award goes to . . .

Amherstburg Open Air Weekends Open Air Weekends in downtown Amherstburg was developed in 2020 by the Town of Amherstburg’s Tourism Department to support, recover and reconnect the community of Amherstburg during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, Open Air Weekends have become a staple, summer long, economic generator that is thriving and becoming more and more popular in the region each year. It operates from the first weekend of June to Labour Day weekend in September. Every Friday, starting at 3 p.m., downtown Amherstburg streets are closed to allow pedestrian traffic only, so local businesses such as restaurants (including a Take-Out Court in the King’s Navy Yard Park) and retail shops, can open into the streets and adjacent parks. “This event offers flexibility as you can go there most weekends on a nice summer day — and it’s family friendly too,” remarks Judge Willis. The main objectives of Amherstburg Open Air Weekends are: (1) Increase tourism and visitation during the summer months, while encouraging visitors to shop, dine and support the local economy.

(2) Engage the community while showcasing Amherstburg’s greatest assets like businesses, parks, murals, and waterfront. (3) Promote physical and social activities by getting people out to bike, shop, dine and participate in outdoor games and crafts. “Ten years ago, I wouldn’t think to go to Amherstburg, but now I do,” expresses Judge Rourke. “I think these summer weekend events definitely get Windsorites jumping in the car and

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The picturesque town of Amherstburg is the place to be during the Open Air Weekends, with plenty of outdoor dining options to discover at establishments, such as Artisan Grill, Lot 10 Brewing Company, and Downtown Espresso. Photos courtesy of Anne Ussoletti/ Town of Amherstburg.

heading out to this historic town for a fun day/evening out.” The Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture report (dated November 28, 2022 and using the TREIM model) estimates that 2022’s Amherstburg Open Air Weekends showed an impact of $34,023,631 in visitor spending, with more than 120,000 visitors over the summer period. “Guests at the inn, where I work, are staying overnight throughout June to September, so they can head out to the ’burg, and attend this event,” comments Judge Barker. Open Air Weekend activities include, dining and shopping on the streets; free yoga; live music; free games including life-sized chess and checkers, ping pong,

There are also outdoor games for the children like street chess and as well mom and dad can browse products for sale by local businesses. Get the picture?

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corn hole, basketball, Jenga, and more; free kids activities every weekend include, arts & crafts, remote control cars, hula-hoops, jump rope and chalk games, plus bagpipe parades.

Business activities throughout the summer include, Play Amherstburg (children’s activities), Storytime Sunday readings at River Book Shop, fashion shows by A La Mode, and Fort Malden gun demos.

And you can even be a shutter bug and use their free digital photo frames by scanning one of the QR codes on the windows of downtown businesses! “Open Air Weekends aim to increase community engagement, boost economic development for local businesses, create employment opportunities for summer students, and highlight the Town of Amherstburg and its beautiful historic downtown,” explains Anne Ussoletti, Manager of Tourism & Culture for the town.

“In the future we plan to continue to develop more vendor markets to enhance the visitor experience, increase the volume of children’s programming and outdoor activities, increase engagement, and develop more programming ideas with local businesses — like we did with the fashion shows and music-focused nights.”

Open Air Weekends received a Festivals & Events Ontario Top 100 Award, Southwest Ontario Tourism Region in 2023. For more information check: VisitAmherstburg.ca/ events/Amherstburg-open-air-weekends.

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Check out our web series, in partnership with Windsor Aerial Drone Photography on: BizXmagazine.com

ARMS IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

The Signage Visionary . . .

Glenn Girard

By Arms Bumanlag

I

n the world of signage and branding, where visual communication is paramount, the name Glenn Girard stands out as a visionary leader who has successfully led not one, but two innovative companies: Banner Boys and A Sign 4 Success.

With a commitment to meeting customer needs, a passion for sustainability, and an unyielding focus on excellence, both businesses have thrived in an ever-evolving market.

Banner Boys emerged as a solution to an ongoing challenge when Girard realized many customers for A Sign 4 Success were unaware of the diverse signage solutions the company offered.

“In some cases clients ordered services from elsewhere simply because they were unaware that A Sign 4 Success could provide them,” he indicates. “Banner Boys was conceived as a means to consolidate these

offerings making it easier for customers to comprehend the full spectrum of our services.”

Working out of a home office in LaSalle, Banner Boys is a one-stop-shop for a wide range of signage needs.

They offer commercial banners, suitable for everything from street banners to personalized banners for private events, golf tournaments, fundraisers, non-profit organizations, and more.

In addition, they provide banner stands, branding for tents and tablecloths, golf tee flags, promotional flags, photo frames, and media walls.

“We pride ourselves on providing a personal touch that sets us apart in an increasingly digital world,” expresses Girard. “The ability to directly engage with customers, offer custom sizes, and provide proofs before printing has been a game-changer.”

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From conception to implementation, Glenn and Karen Girard of Banner Boys and A Sign 4 Success do it all!

Glenn is photographed installing a window graphic for Iron Will (personal trainer) in downtown Windsor.

Photo courtesy of Glenn Girard.

This personalized approach has enhanced their competitive edge and Banner Boys has already made a significant impact in the industry by working with esteemed institutions like the University of Windsor, the Miracle League, and Movati Athletic, even in the early stages of its journey.

These projects have exemplified the company’s commitment to excellence.

Whereas Girard takes the lead in sales, design, print, and installations, his wife and business partner, Karen, contributes to design, print, and preparation. The family’s three sons have also been instrumental in printing, installation, and delivery over the years.

Through A Sign 4 Success and Banner Boys, Glenn and his dedicated team’s commitment to innovation, customer-centric approaches and environmental responsibility, is a sure sign they will continue to lead the way in the local world of signage and branding for many years to come.

Learn more about each company on: Facebook.com/ASign4Success and their website: BannerBoys.ca.

Arms Bumanlag is a seasoned media professional for over 25 years and has previously worked at CKLW, CTV and CBC. He has now transitioned into the world of real estate as a partner with Ron Deneau at Bob Pedler Real Estate Limited Brokerage.

(RonDeneau.ca).

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

Time To Pack Your Troubles Away With Coxon’s Sales + Rentals

By Dave Halliday

T

he thought of your new house is exciting as finally you will have enough room for your family and all of your stuff . . . wait, you really have a lot of stuff!

The sale closes in two weeks so what are you going to do with all this stuff? You are panicking now! You need a truck.

You need to move everything in one day. Suddenly the thought of moving is overwhelming.

Fortunately for you there are ways to make your move more manageable, avoiding the one-day rush.

We at Biz X were able to sit and discuss your plight with the good folks over at Coxon’s Sales + Rentals (CSR) Limited, located at 4891 Manning Road in Maidstone and online at: CSRcoxons.com.

CSR has been assisting local residents for the past 30 years and Jake Morris, Business Manager, was able to share with us his 11 years of experience at the company.

Can you touch on the services you provide? “CSR is your onestop shop for shipping containers and mobile offices,” says Morris adding: “We sell, rent, and service our equipment for our valued customers across southwestern Ontario, as we are the anything and everything, shipping container people.”

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What can you tell our readers about your moving containers?

“Tilt-Free Container Moves are easy for our customers,” informs Morris reminding us: “CSR was founded by the former parent company Coxon’s Towing Service Ltd. over 60 years ago, and we’re great in trucking. Our fleet maintains industry-leading equipment, and our skilled operators are the best at taking care of your possessions during the process.”

Do you assist the client in identifying what size and type of container they might need? “We love educating our customers on the many sizes of shipping containers and the multitude of unique formats they come in,” declares Morris. “We provide custom modifications, like installing additional doors and windows, and carry various parts and accessories for containers. Many of our customers already own containers, and we aim to serve with solutions, whenever needed, to provide fast and efficient moving services.”

We understand you offer services to both the commercial and residential sectors. What are the commercial aspects?

“We provide both short-term and long-term rentals at competitive pricing that reflects fair market value,” he indicates. “CSR provides readily available quality containers, from construction site office trailers to secure storage solutions.”

Do you provide off-site storage services as well?

“Yes we are pleased to offer outdoor off-site storage at our Manning Road location,” Morris points out.

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The convenience of loading and unloading at your pace can be achieved via a clean, secure, weatherproof, portable storage container. Photo courtesy of Coxon’s Sales + Rentals.

What is your service range when it comes to moves?

“Locations such as Windsor, Chatham, London, Sarnia, and the GTA are home to us,” he states. “We primarily service southwestern Ontario; however, we can facilitate further moves when required.”

When one orders one of your on-site containers to accommodate a move, what condition does the container arrive in?

“Our moving container inventory consists of new units, which always come with heavy duty locks,” mentions Morris. “Containers need to be secure, and, most often, people don’t want an eyesore showing up at their location.”

We understand you also have older containers. Please elaborate.

“Yes we do,” he answers. “Our inventory of older containers is ideal for contractor usage, and we offer discounted rates to be more costefficient when it is appropriate for the customer.”

What would you say are the benefits to moving via storage container as opposed to the traditional rental trucks?

“With our service you can forget truck rentals and ramps while stepping right into your new shipping container, making lifting a little easier,” expresses Morris. He also comments: “The real estate process can often feel heavy on the homeowners. When you finally find and buy the home, there comes the dreaded move. But what if the moving part could be made much easier for you? It can be, and we can tell you how.”

We believe you offer sales, rentals, and accessories?

“Absolutely, if the rental option is not for you, we sell containers and also offer a variety of parts, accessories, and modifications,” he suggests. Morris continues by listing some of the more popular items, such as: “Roll-up doors, swing doors, windows, locks, overhead shelter covers, shelving brackets and additional vents.”

Do you provide direction to the client on how they should load their rental container? “Our team of storage experts is always available to consult with the customer on the safest and most efficient way to load the container,” says Morris. “Shipping containers provide ample storage space with a minimum width of 8’ and height of 8.5’ and the lengths most used are 20’ and 40’. We often make site visits to suggest loading/unloading techniques.”

It was truly a stress-free process moving the items into the clean and secure storage container that was parked right in your driveway.

You were able to take your time both loading and unloading and the move was accomplished by just you and your wife, with even the kids chipping in. However, the best part was that you didn’t have to bother your friends and family for assistance (saving you about $400 in beer and pizza!).

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The Northern National Collectors’ Convention & Cartoon Kingdom Fan Experience

HOT SHOTS

September 29 to October 1, 2023 at Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor Captions by Jason Kerluck. Photos by Tina Huynh. All people in photos are listed from the left.

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1. Monsters were on the loose at the venue, but we managed to snap a picture of the giant prehistoric dinosaur-like Godzilla with Front of House Coordinator, Bird Canada, Dale Cormier; Executive Assistant to the President, Jenny McAdams; Convention President, Jeremy Renaud; and Programs & Operations Manager, Sandra Poirier. Their hard work made for an event that was enjoyed by thousands that day!

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2. Forty plus celebrity guests were in attendance, including the creator of comic legends — such as Conan the Barbarian. as well as co-creating The Wolverine, Ghost Rider, Luke Cage, and dozens of other familiar heroes . . . Roy “The Boy” Thomas. He is a HUGE fan of Canadian TV and has worked very closely with Stan Lee and Arvell Jones. Still actively drawing after all these years, Thomas celebrated the 50th anniversary of The Wolverine character during the convention.

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3. Sitting right next to Roy Thomas was the equally iconic Arvell Jones, Marvel and DC Comics creator. Jones wanted to be a film director as a young boy, but his dad saw the cost of an 8mm camera and bought him pencils and paper instead. This act of frugality was the beginning of an incredible career. Jones worked closely with Thomas and is a hero in his own right. Even though he hurt himself doing some home renovations just a couple days prior to the event, he still showed up and gave his fans 100%. Now that’s a class act!

4. The team from Fight Like Mason, a registered charity organization, continues to honour little Mason and his incredible fight against cancer, as well as his love of superheroes. Andrew Leaman, Nicole Christensen, and Josephine Dufour were there to spread the word about the foundation and tell all how they will continue its work until the villain is defeated for good! Learn more about their programs and events at: FightLikeMason.org.

5. Known for roles in Starship Troopers and the Hallowe’en favourite, Sleepy Hollow, movie legend Casper Van Dien signed autographs and chatted with his fans. When he spoke to Biz X, he was passionate about the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) strike that was going on at the time. It was clear that regardless of how glamorous acting can seem, it’s still a livelihood for many people less famous, and fair treatment regarding residuals for streaming services and AI are deep concerns for him and his peers.

6. Over 63 exhibitors were in the Augustus Ballroom selling all kinds of merchandise, including Ian Davies from The CG Realm, which also was a convention gold sponsor. At their booth you could find a LOT of Gundam models, gaming cards, and vintage video games for sale. If you missed attending the Northern National, head to 1214 Ottawa Street in Windsor to visit them, or go online to: TheCGrealm.com.

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TECH BY TES

How To Make The Most Of Online Shopping

By Serena Ellwood As the stars align and the holiday season glimmers with promise, those who seek the treasures of online shopping may find themselves lost in a sea of options.

As someone who loves shopping online, the holiday season is one of my favourite times of the year to indulge in some retail therapy.

But, with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

For this article I’ve put together some tips and advice for both consumers and retailers to make the most of online shopping this holiday season.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the importance of supporting local.

Let’s not forget the magic woven by our small businesses who have adapted to online shopping and delivery options. In supporting them, we not only strengthen our community, but also discover local gems and unique custom gifts.

While it’s easy to get sucked into the deals

offered by bigger retailers, it’s important to remember that local businesses need our support now more than ever. This holiday season (and any day of the year you shop for gifts or necessities), consider shopping at local online shops.

Now let’s talk about tech.

If you’re a consumer, make sure you have a device that can handle online shopping. A laptop or desktop with a big screen is ideal for getting the whole experience. A smartphone or tablet can also work just fine, however, it may slightly restrict how you see the online shop.

Retailers, make sure your website is mobilefriendly and optimized for different devices because most consumers shop on the go.

It’s also important to make sure your website loads quickly, as slow load times can lead to frustrated shoppers who may abandon their carts.

When it comes to ease of checkout, consumers want a seamless experience.

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Retailers need to ensure their website has clear navigation, quality product photos and a straightforward checkout process. In addition they should consider offering multiple payment options — such as credit cards, PayPal, or Apple Pay — to make it easier for customers to complete their purchase. Convenience is key!

And now, for some bonus tips . . .

Create online accounts for easy checkout, reward programs, or to get VIP perks.

Snag exclusive online deals and discounts.

Sift through customer reviews to make informed purchases.

Don’t hesitate to contact customer service for questions about your order.

Let the magic of online shopping ignite, as we venture forth into a season of wonder and delight.

May the treasures we discover bring joy to all.

By supporting local businesses and following these tips, we can make the most out of this year’s holiday season.

So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favourite holiday playlist, and start browsing those online stores!

Tech Bytes is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com). The columnist for this edition, Serena Ellwood is the CEO and Founder of 519Culture, a gifting service, located in Windsor Essex, providing you with the options to choose from exceptional gifts, custom gift programs and branding opportunities. Shop online anytime, anywhere on: 519culture.ca.

• • • •

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL WOMEN AT WORK

By Rebecca Wright

Tanya Adamovic . . .

C

A Real Gem In The Jewellery Biz

hristmas is the perfect time to gift a beautiful piece of jewellery and The Little Red Door Gift Shop has a wide selection of top brands to choose from to help you make that happen.

“My shop offers fine fashion jewellery made with Swarovski crystals, cubic zirconia and gemstones,” describes Tanya Adamovic, Owner of The Little Red Door Gift Shop. “From earrings to necklaces, bracelets, rings and more, we have something special for everybody.”

Originally a vendor style operation (various displays were set up at hospitals and area events), Adamovic acquired The Little Red Door Gift Shop in 2017.

Her vision was to grow the business to a brick-and-mortar store so customers could come and shop in a more traditional fashion.

Now located at 800 North Talbot Road in Essex, the shop also specializes in bridal jewellery, bridal parties, mother of the bride/ groom jewellery, and more.

“And we have price points to meet every individual budget,” she adds.

By far the most popular line is the Bella Earrings collection. These gorgeous drop earrings are made with Swarovski crystals, come in several different colour combinations and are hypoallergenic for sensitive ears.

Adamovic believes her business offers the ultimate small-town shop and support local feeling, which truly makes her store quite unique.

“People feel like they’ve found a little hidden gem,” she points out.

Her goal is to offer the ultimate customer experience and a place for her customers to

Tanya Adamovic pours her heart into her business, The Little Red Door Gift Shop, carefully selecting high quality pieces she thinks people will love. Customers let her know they are happy with what the store stocks, so she’s obviously doing a fantastic job! Photo courtesy of Tanya Adamovic.

purchase a gift or something for themselves that feels personal and special.

“Gifting nowadays can be difficult — but I really work hard to help people find something they are excited to give,” Adamovic explains.

“I want customers to feel good about their purchases when they leave my shop.”

As a sole proprietor, she goes the extra mile to develop a rapport with her customers.

“They get to know me on a personal level, making our interactions much more than just a business transaction,” Adamovic states. “If they visit in person, call or send a message, it’s always me on the other end and I think customers find great comfort in that.”

The Little Red Door is a great place to cross off gifts on your list this holiday season, with jewellery pieces for children, teens, adults and beyond. And if you’re looking for a more personalized gift, why not consider

purchasing a piece with a birthstone or an initial?

“Each piece is beautifully packaged in our signature red boxes and ready to be gifted,” she suggests, adding they also offer gift certificates.

There is also an online store (see: LittleRedDoorGiftShop.com) so customers can shop at anytime from anywhere.

Although Adamovic is a proud business owner, her family comes first, above everything else.

“As a wife and mother of three, life is very busy,” she expresses. “However, The Little Red Door is my baby and I’m always thinking of new ways to offer more and grow this business.”

Balancing the two worlds means asking for help when needed, she believes.

“I have a very supportive husband and family circle to make sure our kids’ needs are met when I can’t be there in person,” Adamovic states. “This allows me to do what I love and be the face of The Little Red Door for my customers.”

Her advice for other entrepreneurs is to stay consistent.

“That doesn’t mean starting or growing a business must be eight hours of solid productivity every day — it could mean two to three hours of focused work each day without distractions,” she comments.

“Trying to multi-task or take on too much can sometimes have the opposite outcome. There is so much growth in the small steps we take, but we often underestimate that. Remaining consistent and disciplined will get you where you want to go.”

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Light Your Life

WITH YOUR FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY

Walk in a winter wonderland filled with dazzling displays at the River Lights Winter Festival in Amherstburg, each night from November 18 to January 8. Start at the King’s Navy Yard Park (right) and work your way around to the Gingerbread Warming House in Toddy Jones Park for some hot chocolate. Photos courtesy of The Town of Amherstburg.

T

’is the season to gather the family, hop in your “sleigh” and jingle all the way to amazing light displays, firework celebrations, parades, vendor markets, Santa meet and greets . . . and more!

In our annual holiday event guide we profile what area towns in Essex County and the city of Windsor have planned for you, from midNovember 2023 to early January 2024.

Read up on a selection of events in this feature here, but you may also visit our website calendar on: BizXmagazine.com

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and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island’s site: VisitWindsorEssex.com for more information on other upcoming events scheduled to take place in the region.

-•- AMHERSTBURG -•River Lights Winter Festival

Every night, from November 18, 2023 to January 8, 2024 hundreds of customized LED light displays light up Amherstburg’s

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two main parks, King’s Navy Yard Park and Toddy Jones Park.

Experience some of the largest holiday displays in the area, such as a 22 foot tall ship, shooting stars and archways — an ideal photo op for night time holiday pictures.

Additional displays showcase the warmhearted feel of the season with carollers, angels, soldiers and more.

Returning to the festival in 2023 is the Gingerbread Warming House, in Toddy Jones Park. Weekend nights from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. until December 23, observe the gingerbread

THE PARENTING BIZ house contest submissions, take part in free crafts, and warm up inside with a cup of hot chocolate.

Families and all ages are welcome and all displays are free to attend.

The event has been running for 17 years and according to Sarah Van Grinsven, Tourism Coordinator at the Town of Amherstburg: “The original goal of River Lights was to bring the community out during the dark, winter months, to not only increase economic development, but to also help people share in the joy of the season.

We continue to bring it back annually to give visitors an opportunity to experience holiday cheer in Amherstburg’s wonderful downtown and parks.”

For more information refer to the website: VisitAmherstburg.ca/riverlights.

Santa Claus Parade

On November 25 at 6 p.m., the parade starts in downtown Amherstburg at Sandwich Street, ending at Toddy Jones Park.

This family event has been running for 16 years and includes entertainment, floats, and the stars of the show — Santa and Mrs. Claus.

“We provide families with an opportunity to share in the joy of the season, and experience the magic of Santa,” states

Maggie Durocher, Executive Director of Windsor Parade Corporation.

For further details go to the website: WindsorParade.org (and learn about their new event, Christmas at Heritage Village, November 17 to December 23, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village in Kingsville).

The Town of Kingsville invites everyone to join them for six weeks of Christmas magic for the whole family, from November 18, 2023 until January 3, 2024.

The Fantasy of Lights Santa Claus Parade on November 18 at 5 p.m., kicks off the beginning of the events at Lakeside Park.

“The Fantasy of Lights has brought magic to the community for over 20 years,” explains Karen Loney, Manager of Recreation and Special Events. “This multiweek event showcases all kinds of incredible talent; music, arts, artisan wares, and the hardworking dedication of our volunteers, committee, and staff.”

Each weekend, after the opening ceremonies on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. from November 24 to December 23, 2023, the Kingsville Express train offers rides around the Lakeside Park for a unique way to see the beautiful light displays. There’s also hot cocoa to sip as well!

There are also four separate events at the Lakeside Pavilion. First, the Christmas Artisan Market features handmade gifts, food, and more on Saturday, December 2 from 2 to 8 p.m. and Sunday, December 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Second, don’t leave your furry family members out of the fun! At the Paws & Claus Marketplace held on Tuesday, December 5 from 6 to 8 p.m., get a picture of your pet with Santa Claus and browse the wares of pet-focused vendors on site.

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-•- ESSEX -•The 10th Annual Essex BIA Santa Claus Parade

On December 9 at 6:30 p.m., the parade starts at Talbot Street North and Fairview Avenue East, goes up Talbot, ending at Victoria Avenue.

Check: WindsorParade.org for additional information.

-•- KINGSVILLE -•Fantasy Of Lights

THE PARENTING BIZ The theme of the 2023 Kingsville Fantasy of Lights is Christmas Magic. Families are invited to come and join town residents each weekend from November 24 to December 23, and enjoy a train ride on the Kingsville Express through the park filled with light displays. Photo courtesy of the Town of Kingsville.

The Town of LaSalle hosts the annual Holiday Lights Heritage Nights event at

the LaSalle Civic Centre, 5950 Malden Road, from November 24, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

This beautiful outdoor light display transforms the area into a magical outdoor walk-through holiday wonderland, including numerous ornamental and holiday lighting displays and a 40 foot-tall walkthrough tree. The lights shine daily from 5 until 10 p.m.

Special weekend activities also take place between November 24 and December 17 from 5 to 8 p.m., including: Family Fridays (visits with Santa, entertainment, and food vendors at the LaSalle Civic Centre); Sounds of the Seasons Saturdays (live carolling performances at the centre), and Holiday Night Market Sundays (a variety of vendor displays at the new Event Centre, 970 Front Road). Log on to: LaSalle.ca/ holidaylights for full details!

The town also hosts Breakfast With Santa and The Mayor, on Saturday December 2, anytime between 9 and 11:30 a.m., at the Event Centre, 970 Front Road. The last breakfast is served at 11 a.m.

During his time away from the North Pole, Santa joins LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche, children, and families, for a pancake breakfast.

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Next, on Friday evenings in December, starting on December 8, the Holiday Concert Series, hosted by the Kingsville Music Society, takes place from 6 to 8 p.m.

And finally, come and see Santa Claus and make crafts with him and the Kingsville Optimist Club on Saturday, December 9.

The end of the Fantasy of Lights is marked with a bang by a New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show at 7 p.m., on December 31 at Kingsville Arena. Ring in the New Year with a public free skate (4:30 to 6:30 p.m.), crafts, hot chocolate and fireworks — it’s great entertainment for the whole family!

“We hope you join us at the Fantasy of Lights and enjoy the magic of the season while enjoying all Kingsville has to offer,” Loney expresses.

Full details on all Kingsville events can be found on: FantasyOfLights.ca.

-•- LASALLE -•Holiday Lights, Heritage Nights

Your kids can have the opportunity to visit Santa and share their holiday wish list! Event activities include face painting, airbrush tattoos, a magician, and photos with Santa and other characters. Dance and sing along with DJ Jon as well!

Sparky and the LaSalle Firefighters are also collecting donations of new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages. Donations of gift cards or cash are also accepted, and all donations are greatly appreciated.

Tickets are $8 per person for the breakfast and must be purchased at: LaSalle.ca/santa.

You must pre-register to guarantee your spot. Please note that only individuals with paid admission can enter the event, and children two and under are free to enter and do not require pre-registration.

But that’s not all . . . there is also plenty of fun for the entire family on the schedule too!

The LaSalle New Year’s Eve Drive-In Fireworks show at the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex, 2121 Laurier Parkway, begins at 7:30 p.m. on December 31. Find a parking spot on site and snuggle up with the fam jam for an exciting fireworks display.

Refer to: LaSalle.ca/NYE if you require further information.

-•- LEAMINGTON -•Ugly Christmas Sweater Parade

The town’s annual Christmas parade takes place at 6 p.m. on November 25 at the corner of Georgia Avenue and Erie Street, continues north through town and ends at the fairgrounds.

When Santa reaches the judging stage across from town hall, he then waves his wand to turn on the town’s lights and kicks off a short fireworks display.

THE PARENTING BIZ “The Leamington Christmas Parade is a MUST SEE,” comments Wendy Parsons, General Manager, Leamington District Chamber of Commerce. “Come see the many participants who put so much effort into their entries and all the smiling faces (and ugly Christmas sweaters!) as we welcome the Christmas season to our town.”

Learn more by going to their website: LeamingtonChamber.com/event-calendar.

-•- WINDSOR -•-

2023 Schedule of Events

www.fantasyoflights.ca Events at Kingsville’s Lakeside Park Parade & Opening Ceremonies,November 18, 5:00 pm Kingsville Express Train Rides & Hot Chocolate Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm Family Concerts by Kingsville Music Society, Fridays Christmas Artisan Market, December 2 & 3 Paws & Claus, December 5 Crafts with Santa by Kingsville Optimist Club, December 9 New Year’s Eve Skating & Fireworks, Kingsville Arena

Willistead Manor Holiday Tours & Breakfast With Santa

The City of Windsor invites you to get into the holiday spirit and treat yourself to something unforgettable at Willistead Manor, 1899 Niagara Street.

“The Willistead Manor Holiday Tours are a beloved tradition for many families across Windsor and Essex County,” states Christopher Lawrence Menard, Supervisor, Community Programming — Cultural Affairs. “We look forward to this opportunity to showcase Willistead in a special way each year. In the grand tradition of Edward and Mary Walker’s ‘At Home’ parties, the present-day At the Manor series of poetry readings, live arts performances, themed dinners, tours and more, fills Willistead with folks celebrating and making memories together. Willistead Manor has always been, and will always be, a community gathering place — a backdrop for so many significant life moments.

We’re excited to welcome everyone back this December.”

Experience breathtaking beauty as you tour one of Windsor’s most elegant mansions, all decked out in its holiday finest. From the Great Hall on the main floor, to the private dressing chamber on the second, each room boasts a unique colour theme and aesthetic, courtesy of the Friends of Willistead and their dedicated team of volunteers.

Holiday tour dates and times are as follows: Sundays — December 3, 10 & 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays — December 6, 13, 20 & 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. Please note: The Silver Bells group (bell ringers) perform Sunday, December 17.

Tour reservations are not required and tickets can be purchased at the Coach House upon arrival. To guarantee a complete tour, final tours begin at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays and at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Tour ticket prices are: $6.25 adults; $5.25 students and seniors; and $2.75 for children 12 and under.

As part of the holiday tours, guests also have access to the permanent Coach

Willistead Manor

2023 Holiday Tours

willistead.ca

1899 NIAGARA STREET, WINDSOR, ON.

1899 NIAGARA STREET, WINDSOR, ON. ALSO AVAILABLE FOR 2023 TOUR OUR ELEGANT MANSION THE CITY OF WINDSOR TOUR OUR ELEGANT MANSION ALL DECKED OUT IN ITS HOLIDAY FINEST AND THYME TO-GO PRESENT

ALL DECKED OUT IN ITS HOLIDAY FINEST

SUNDAYS

BREAKFAST BUFFET

SUNDAYS & 17, 2023 DEC 3, 10 & 17, DEC 2023 3,+ 10 SANTA VISIT + PHOTOS 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Includes a delicious meal and a 1:00 p.m. to Self-Guided 4:00 p.m.

Silver Bells bell-ringers perform Sun, Dec 17 Tour of Willistead Manor Silver Bells bell-ringers perform Sun, Dec 17

WEDNESDAYS

SUNDAYS

WEDNESDAYS DEC 6, 13,3,20 & 17, 27,2023 2023 DEC 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2023 DEC 10 & 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 to 11:45 a.m.

6:00 p.m.

8:00a.m. p.m.

ToTOUR guarantee a complete tour, final tours RATES ADMISSION begin at 3:30 p.m. on| ADULTS Sundays & 7:30| GENERAL p.m. on ADMISSION Wednesdays $6.25 $40.00 | STUDENTSare & SENIORS $20.00 |Details CHILDREN & UNDER *Tour $5.25 Reservations NOT required. at 12 Willistead.ca* $2.75 | CHILDREN 12 & UNDER

MUST PURCHASE TIX IN ADVANCE

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

CASH | DEBIT | VISA OR MASTERCARD ACCEPTED To guarantee a complete tour, final tours begin at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays & 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays

Call THYME TO-GO at 519-254-3434 or visit thymetogo.ca.

Ticket price includes a Breakfast & Santa visit.

Photos cost $10 extra (cash only) from Mychailo Photography.

SUNDAYS DEC 3,LIMITED 10 & SPOTS 17, 2023 OPEN; BOOK SOON

RESERVATIONS ARE NOT REQUIRED

10:00 a.m. Limited Seating. Book at www.ThymeToGo.ca

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THE PARENTING BIZ

(Left) Tour one of Windsor’s most elegant mansions, all decked out in its holiday finest this December. Pictured is the dining room holiday décor last year at Willistead Manor.

Photo courtesy of Norman Rheaume, Windsor Camera Club. (Right) Jolly Old Saint Nicholas is captured visiting Willistead Manor in 2022. Photo courtesy of Mychailo Photography.

House Historical Exhibition that opened in 2022, to share and celebrate the history of Edward and Mary Walker, Hiram Walker, the Walker businesses and community impacts, the formation of Walkerville, the construction and uses of Willistead Manor, and much more.

Further questions? Check: Willistead.ca or call 311.

In addition, as part of the At the Manor event series, Willistead Manor teams up again this year with Thyme To-Go, the Friends of Willistead, and Mychailo Photography to present three Breakfast with Santa events throughout the season.

Guests are treated to a breakfast buffet, a visit with Santa in the Great Hall, selfguided mini-tours of the first floor only,

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and a photo op (provided by Mychailo Photography, at an additional charge). Those interested are encouraged to book soon.

Breakfast with Santa is offered on three Sundays — December 3, 10, & 17, from 10 to 11:45 a.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance on: ThymeToGo.ca ($40 adult general admission and $20 for children 12 and under).

November 18 - January 8

King’s Navy Yard Park & Toddy Jones Park · Amherstburg, ON

Create your family traditions and memories in Amherstburg this season!

Every night, hundreds of light displays light up two parks and historic downtown Amherstburg.

Back by popular demand! Visit the Gingerbread Warming House every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. until December 23.

Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, participate in activities and view the magnificent custom designed Gingerbread Houses.

Visiting River Lights has become a tradition for many families, make it one of yours!

visitamherstburg.ca/riverlights

Sponsored by:

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THE PARENTING BIZ 55th Annual Windsor Santa Claus Parade

The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) is thrilled to announce the return of the cherished Santa Claus Parade, organized by the Windsor Parade Corporation, to its original downtown route on December 2 at 6 p.m.

This year marks the 55th anniversary of the Windsor Santa Claus Parade, a magical event that has been a staple in the community, creating joyous memories for families and friends.

The parade — which has been held on Wyandotte Street for the last few years — will now twinkle and shine through a nostalgic route that starts at Ouellette Avenue and Wyandotte Street East and goes north on Ouellette to Riverside Drive West, ending at Caron Avenue.

“The parade’s return to the downtown this year is a heart-warming homecoming, reigniting the festive spirit in the heart of Windsor,” says DWBIA Executive Director Debi Croucher. “The downtown area has such vibrant energy and historical charm and it provides a perfect backdrop for this beloved tradition.”

For more event details go to the website: WindsorParade.org.

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The return of the beloved Santa Claus Parade downtown (December 2) will bring joy and warmth to the streets of the city’s core once again, thanks to the Windsor Parade Corporation. The non-profit organization also runs parades in Amherstburg (November 25) and Essex (December 9). Photo of TC’z Dance Studio at the 2022 Windsor Parade, courtesy of the Windsor Parade Corporation.

Your “Presents” Is Requested

Since the holidays are all about families, be sure to spend some quality time with yours this November and December.

Enjoy the magic of the bright holiday

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lights and get out and about to a wide range of Christmas activities in Windsor Essex.

Make some beautiful memories together that you’ll never forget.

Happy holidays, everyone!

THE PARENTING BIZ

Holiday Cheer In Chatham Kent

in Chatham, with sparkling lights in the greenhouse, outdoor vendors, Red Barn Brewing Co. on hand, and a visit from Santa can be expected. (For more details check their social media page: Facebook.com/rossnurserymen) November 25, Dresden Christmas Night Market. The town of Dresden comes alive from 3 to 8 p.m. with lights, music, shopping, entertainment, and more!

This year, enjoy not only the tasty food and drink from the various vendors, but the pop-up bar right in the heart of it all.

(Facebook.com/NMdresden) November 24 to January 5: Tilbury Lions

Christmas Light Festival. Come experience the excitement and wonder of holiday lights at this free outdoor event in Tilbury Memorial Park, 24 Stewart Street, from 5:30 to 11 p.m. nightly. (M.Facebook.com/ tilburylionschristmaslightfestival) And if you are interested in going on your own Christmas tree trail, here are the best spots in Chatham Kent to put on your list . . .

Sloan’s Christmas Village in Bothwell, (14933 Longwoods Road), east of Parks Blueberries. From November 17 to December 22 there are two full villages to enjoy, with a variety of fun activities and attractions for the whole family, such as campfires, pony rides, train rides, tree maze, obstacle course, ornament making and more! And of course you can cut down your own tree! For admission rates, times, costs and other details visit: SloansVillage.ca.

Watson Christmas Trees, 7102 Grande River Line, Pain Court. Located just five kilometres west of Chatham, this tree farm is in a peaceful setting along the Thames River. All tree prices include shake and bail, saws, and trolleys. Operating hours are daily, November 18 to December 24 from dawn until dusk: (WatsonChristmastrees.wixsite.com/website) Keep up to date with other holiday events in this area on: Facebook.com/VisitChathamKent; Chatham-Kent.ca and: Dresden.ca/events.

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At Sloan’s Christmas Village in Bothwell, each weekend until December 22, your family can enjoy a horse and wagon ride at Village 1 and tour the 125 acre Christmas tree fields.

Photo courtesy of Sloan’s Christmas Village.

Well, you have just read in our feature story for families, about all the great holiday light displays, parades and activities taking place in Windsor Essex until early January.

Now it is time to fill you in on what’s happening in the Chatham Kent region.

From cutting down your own Christmas tree, attending a holiday market or festival, there is lots of fun for all in the works.

And there are always lots of amazing restaurants to visit and shops to explore too!

Specific events include . . .

November 24: Poinsettia Fest at Ross’ Nurserymen, 335 Indian Creek Road East

Walking Through The Doors Of Our Past

By Andrea Grimes

D

es générations Canadiennes Françoises ont bâties leurs vies . . . L’ancienne manière. (Generations of French-Canadians built their lives . . . the old way).

As the result of the constant ebb and flow of Europe’s political climate, many French nationalists were pressed to build a new life on the western continent. Landing in “New France,” several followed routes along the St. Lawrence River in search of frontier resources bordered by the Great Lakes.

One of the earliest settlements was Ryegate, a community developed along the shores of Lake St. Clair. It was here where many pioneers built their cabins and raised their families, planted their crops, plied their trades, practised their faith, and lived their lives . . . the old way!

Town of Tecumseh archives (refer to: Tecumseh.ca/en/things-to-do/history-oftecumseh.aspx#Tecumseh) confirm that in 1912, Ryegate was renamed Tecumseh in honour of the Shawnee warrior, Chief Tecumseh.

“There are three major factors that are recognized for contributing to the town’s development,” notes Marilyn Prior, President of the Tecumseh Area Historical Society. “The construction of Tecumseh Road in 1838, the establishment of Great Western Railway’s Niagara to Windsor line in 1854 (with the railway station erected in Tecumseh in 1856) and the building of the original chapel of Ste. Anne’s Church in 1859.”

As for the history of Tecumseh’s rail service, an article published in the Windsor

Star on June 23, 1993 confirms that CN Rail “mothballed the station in 1967.”

Recognizing the commercial value of this location, Brentwood Nurseries Garden Centre leased the property from the Town of Tecumseh operating a landscaping business from a modular building they erected. When the lease expired, the building was left in the hands of the community.

“With the intention of re-purposing this building as a heritage destination, the Tecumseh Area Historical Society submitted a proposal which successfully resulted in the establishment of the Tecumseh Heritage Centre in 1997,” recounts Prior. “When you tour our heritage centre at 12340 Tecumseh Road East, you will see a collection of pictures, artifacts, and information depicting the everyday lives of generations of French-Canadian families, town life and its development.”

The most recognized presence of Tecumseh’s pioneer settlement is the Charles Lesperance log cabin.

Built in 1799, the cabin was donated to the Tecumseh Heritage Centre in 2010.

It has been meticulously restored and its history well documented by the Tecumseh Area Historical Society.

As a family-centred destination, the Tecumseh Heritage Centre offers opportunities to engage, interpret and experience French-Canadian life, all year round.

More so, a visit to the Lesperance log cabin offers a “step back in time” revealing traditions of a French-Canadian homestead

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Shown is a greeting card created by the late Tecumseh artist Vicky Giroux depicting the Charles Lesperance log cabin.

Graphic courtesy of the Tecumseh Area Historical Society.

Christmas. (For more information on their hours, visit their social media page: Facebook.com/TecumsehHeritageCentre).

There are many life stories that are played out by descendants of Tecumseh’s first settlers. As such, preserving the mainstay of our French-Canadian heritage not only defines Canada’s capacity to broker a sense of “place-identity,” but it also encourages intergenerational conversations that bring the past into the present in recognition of how so many French-Canadian families built their lives . . . the old way!

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

This is Andrea’s final column as she is officially retiring after 10 years of writing for the magazine.

We’ll miss working with her and we appreciate all her hard work and dedication to ensuring that our readers remember all those who have served so that we could live in peace.

Happy retirement, Andrea!

Special Milestone Recognition

Valente Real Estate . . .

50 Years Of One Great Sale After Another OF THE MONTH

O

n September 22, 2023, Valente Real Estate in Windsor held their 50th anniversary celebration. But before we get to the present day, let’s dive into the history of how this milestone came to be.

Remo G. Valente, the founder of the company, was born in a bomb shelter in Sora, Frosinone, Italy during World War II, on March 28, 1944, the youngest child of Pietro and Emilia Valente.

Times were tough for the Valente family, as three months after Remo was born his father suddenly passed away and the family had to pull together to make ends meet.

In 1955, Valente departed from Naples aboard the Saturnia ocean liner. He left with his mother and his sister Lina, but they had to leave his older brother Mario behind as they did not have enough money for him to come with them, at that time.

They arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where they boarded a train to Toronto.

When they arrived in Toronto they were greeted by Valente’s uncle who drove them all to Windsor — their final destination.

Valente’s first job as an adult was as a tool maker for International Tools and Binder Tools, but he decided this wasn’t the career for him. So, in 1970, he obtained his real estate licence and put his whole heart into the job that he was born to do.

He first worked for Mann and Martell (United Trust) and then became one of

Remo G. Valente is pictured back in the early days of his real estate career. Photo courtesy of his family.

At the Valente Real Estate anniversary celebration, the company was thrilled and honoured to celebrate 50 years with many of their “Valente family” members, past and present. The night was filled with genuine love, not only for the industry and for what they do, but for the people they collectively share their success with. From left: Ida Sproule, Office Manager; Fernanda Valente (Remo’s wife and mother of Peter, Gabriel and Amy-Lynn), Amy-Lynn Valente-Sarkis, REALTOR; Peter Valente, Broker of Record and Gabe Valente (Broker). Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

the “Pedler People” at Bob Pedler Real Estate and was an instant success, earning the “Lion of the Month” (Top Producer), month after month and always yearning for more.

By 1972, Valente was the ultimate Top Producer for Pedler, selling an astonishing $1,139,693, which was far above any other sales person in the company.

In 1973, Valente decided to take the ultimate chance and open up his own company, Remo Valente Real Estate Limited.

He rented an office at the corner of Howard Avenue and Tecumseh Road East in Windsor, and his rent was $235/month at the time. Eventually, he recruited six people to join him in his new office, but before long they outgrew the building as approximately 20 people joined the Valente Team. They then moved their offices to the Angileri Brothers building.

In 1979, Valente purchased a donut shop at the corner of Dougall and West Grand and that became Valente Real Estate’s new home, 2985 Dougall Avenue.

The company eventually grew so large

in size that they had to add two extensions to the existing building, which is still the current home of the company.

In 1990, the company was so successful it became a corporation: hence the name today, Remo Valente Real Estate (1990) Limited.

Valente Real Estate is also one of Windsor and Essex County’s largest residential developers.

Remo Valente and his associates have been responsible for the development of over 200 condominium units and over 1,500 building lots, throughout the Windsor and Essex County area.

The following is a partial list of Remo Valente’s and Valente Real Estate’s projects . . .

South Place condominiums, Navy Yard condominiums, Wildwood Park condominiums, St. Genevieve Place lofts, Huron Estates subdivision, Spring Garden town homes, Kenilworth Gardens, Southwood Trails, Victorian Crossing and Hillside town homes, Pierella Park Estates, Treeline Court of Forest Glade, The Enclave of Tuscany Oaks,

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Banwell Shores, Townsview Estates, The Preserve of LaSalle (future), Hunt Club Creek of Amherstburg (future), Big Creek of Amherstburg, Victorian Gardens of LaSalle . . . and many more!

In 2001, Valente decided to let the second generation take over the company, handing the reins to Pietro Valente, Gabriel (Gabe) Valente and Amy-Lynn Valente-Sarkis.

Pietro (Peter) became the Broker of Record/President of the company and has continued to grow the success of Valente Real Estate. Under his direction the company has grown by 33% and became Windsor’s first one-stop real estate source, with the addition of the company-owned The Mortgage Centre franchise.

Currently, the company has four full-time employees, two part-time employees and 70 real estate professionals (composed of brokers and sales representatives).

“We would be remiss to not also mention that the dedication and enthusiasm of our sales team and office staff, led by our extraordinary Office Manager Ida Sproule, also sets us apart and is what makes us ‘The Best in the Business’,” according to Peter. “They are all our extended family, and our connectiveness, camaraderie and friendships are what make our office feel like a second home for all.”

When asked about the secret of the company’s success, Peter comments: “The secret isn’t a huge secret at all — it is our father, our mentor and the founder of Valente Real Estate — Remo Valente. His passion for the industry and the knowledge and experience that he instilled upon his three children over the last 50 years, is the true secret.”

Amy-Lynn and Gabe (also a Broker) are now real estate agents and hope to attain

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The Valente team works around the clock offering exceptional customer service to all Windsor Essex residents and business owners. Their company signs, featuring their red, yellow and black V logo, can be seen all across the area on numerous resale properties, as well as in new home sub-divisions and condominiums. Here, two members of the sales team Matt Sarkis (Amy-Lynn’s husband) and Darcie Valente (Peter’s wife; shown on the right) pose for a photo-op with Bobbi Valente (Gabe’s wife). Photo by Julianna Bonnett.

even a fraction of the success of their father (who sadly passed away in June 2022).

So what lies ahead?

“Our plan for the future is to continue the legacy created by our father, but with a mind to the future of real estate using the latest technology, marketing platforms, and sales approaches to service our clients over the next 50 years,” Peter expresses.

For more information about the brokerage visit: ValenteRealEstate.com.

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