Biz X magazine October 2017 by Biz X magazine

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION

Windsor Airport Cargo Hub

Slow In Developing

So You Want To Be A Rock Star?

Don’t Miss What The Legendary Mark Farner Has To Say About That!

October 2017

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Eat, Drink & Be Merry At “Wines Of The World”; The “Culinary Guild Of Windsor/ORHMA Gala Evening Of Excellence” & “Artilicious”

“Cheers To Small Businesses!”

During “Small Business Month” we give thanks to all the small businesses in our region. North 42 Degrees Estate Winery in Colchester, represented by Martin Gorski, Suzanne Dajczak and Steve Meehan, is just one of many local success stories profiled in this edition. — PAGE 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

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

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E â&#x20AC;¢ O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

table of contents October 2017 volume 20 • issue 9

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4 6 38 YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION

Windsor Airport Cargo Hub Slow In Developing

So You Want To Be A Rock Star? Don’t Miss Reading What The Legendary Mark Farner Has To Say October 2017

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Eat, Drink & Be Merry At “Wines Of The World”; The “Culinary Guild Of Windsor/ORHMA Gala Evening of Excellence” & “Artilicious”

ON THE COVER — “Cheers To Small Businesses!” — 18

More than 28,000 small businesses provide employment for as many as 100,000 people in Windsor Essex. And many of those small local businesses are flourishing like a green bay tree (or vineyard in this case!). Take, for example, North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, which has completed a major expansion to add a full-service restaurant and an expanded tasting room to their property on County Road 50 East in Colchester. From wineries like North 42 to breweries, clothing stores to gift shops and more, small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy. Let’s get to know a few of them a little better now in honour of “Small Business Month” in Canada.

“Cheers To Small Businesses!”

4 Funny Stuff For many years we have been publishing pictures of dogs, cats, birds, hamsters — any type of pet or critter that you send us. Keep ’em coming! This photo feature makes everyone smile during a stressful day. After all, who does not love a cute pet pic? Take the top photo for example from the owner of a downtown Windsor pub who knows who’s boss in his house: Rayvn! 5 From The Publisher: Windsor Essex In The Top 10 Best Locations In Canada For Investment 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Windsor Airport Cargo Hub — What’s Up With That? Many troubling questions remain unanswered on how the previously much-hyped development of Windsor International Airport as an international Cargo Hub, funded by taxpayers, is unfolding. And what role does the Institute for Border Logistics and Security (middle photo of sign by Alan Halberstadt) play in all this? 8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Biz X Was There 14 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 24 Corporate Spotlight: The Need To Tap Into Detroit’s Energy And Innovation 26 Generation YKNOT: We Have The Technology! “Tech Week YQG” 27 Portfolio Corner 29 Ask The Experts: Keeping Your Basement High And Dry With Northstar Plumbing 30 Boost Your Business 31 XX Files: Sheryl Davies, The Wedding Guide Windsor/Essex County 32 Making A Sound Living: An Interview With Mark Farner, Formerly Of Grand Funk Railroad 35 Guest Column: Inefficiencies Of The Litigation Process 36 Food For Thought: On A Roll Sushi & Sliders, Downtown Windsor 37 Event Profile: The 22nd “Wines Of The World” 38 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: A Night Of Culinary Excellence The Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) and the Canadian Culinary Federation (CCF) join up in October to organize the “Culinary Guild of Windsor/ORHMA Gala Evening of Excellence.” Need to know more? Grab your copy of Biz X and a cup of Joe, flip to this column and let Joe tell you all about it. Photo below by Joe McParland shows Frank Moceri, President of Windsor Chapter of ORHMA with Chef Adelina Sisti-DeBlasis, President of the CCF Culinary Guild of Windsor. 40 Event Profile: The 4th Annual “Artilicious ” 41 Take The Lead: Jumping Into The Political Arena NEW! 42 Guest Column: Eating Disorders Affecting Women Of All Ages 43 From The Bookshelf 45 The Way It Was 46 Biz Of The Month: Southwest Investigative Solutions

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

People: Owners Martin Gorski (left) and his wife Suzanne Dajczak and Steve Meehan, General Manager and Executive Chef for North 42 Bistro are pictured on the 42nd parallel in the vineyard of North 42 Degrees Estate Winery. Photographer: Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com). B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

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from the publisher

Yahoo! Windsor Essex Makes Top 10 List By Deborah Jones

This entire issue is dedicated to small businesses and the people who run them, just in time for “Small Business Month” in October. And I can’t think of a better way to kick start our tribute to small business than with a bit of good news! In early September, Site Selection magazine recognized Windsor Essex in the “Top 10 for Best Locations in Canada for Investment.” The region was joined by: Calgary Economic Development; City of Mississauga Economic Development; Montreal International; Invest Ottawa; Quebec International; Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority; Toronto Global; Vancouver Economic Commission and Waterloo Economic Development Corporation. The Canada’s Best Award was received by the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC) on behalf of the Windsor Essex region. “It’s an honour to receive this award on behalf of the Windsor Essex region,”

says Stephen MacKenzie, CEO of WE EDC. “To be recognized among the Best Places in Canada to invest is an outstanding achievement and speaks volumes about our region’s exceptional position for economic growth and business development. It’s also a privilege to be recognized as one of Canada’s Best Locations for Investment by a third party such as Site Selection magazine, who is known as a trusted advisor to corporations, government, investment and economic development agencies around the world.” Significant projects in the September article referenced Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd., Canadian Salt and Stratus Plastics. Site Selection magazine is an international publication that is recognized as the leading publication in corporate real estate, facility planning, location analysis and foreign direct investment. You can read the 2017 Canada’s Best Location report posted on the website here: SiteSelection.com.

In 2011, 2014 and 2015 Site Selection’s Annual Canadian Ranking recognized the Windsor Essex region with awards within the categories of Top 10 Canadian Economic Development Groups and Canada’s Best Locations for Investment. Visit: ChooseWindsorEssex.com/awards to see other notable past recognition the area has received. With so many challenges in business these days, coming from things out of our control like flooding disasters, high energy costs and sky-rocketing expenses on gas or even from your suppliers, we all must prepare to do battle to fight another day and stretch those dollars as much as possible. Whereas there are a few industries profiting from work due to the flood (the most recent setback), most of us are in the same boat of making sure all the bills are paid and holding onto all the customers we have. So when encouraging news happens, we can hopefully see the bigger picture. Being in the “Top 10 for Best Locations in Canada for Investment” points entrepreneurs (past and new) in the right direction to help the Windsor Essex business community survive well into the future. So this Thanksgiving, we need to be thankful for all that we have. And everything our region can and will be — a great place to invest, work and live.

LOVE LOCAL. SHOP LOCAL. Experience one of the region’s largest shop local events – the SmallBiz Expo. Oct 18, 2017 | 5 – 9 p.m. Giovanni Caboto Club

For details visit: windsoressexsmallbusiness.com/expo

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

editorial viewpoint

Windsor “Air Cargo City” So Far A Lot Of Hot Air By Alan Halberstadt If you would like to comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com.

esieged taxpayers should wonder what is becoming of the grandiose plan to transform Windsor into an international cargo handling centre of excellence. That was the vision, as far back as March of 2009, more than eight years ago, when the Windsor Star ran a front page photo of a beaming Mayor Eddie Francis standing alongside a newly built runway at Windsor International Airport. At 9,000 feet long and 200 feet wide, the mega tarmac can accommodate the Russian built Antonov, the world’s largest cargo plane. Leveraging senior government stimulus money, tens of millions of dollars have been spent on airport improvements such as the monster runway and taxiways. Francis convinced the majority of Windsor City Council (when I was a skeptical member) and the provincial government to fund $530,000 for two feasibility studies by Lufthansa Consulting of Frankfurt, Germany. In early 2010, the compliant consultants concluded, not surprisingly, that we should go for it. In the midst of a punishing economic downturn, the Cargo Hub was held up as the carrot to develop a new economy for Windsor that one day could be known as “Air Cargo City” as Francis coined it. The Mayor ramped up the hype by touting the establishment of a pre-clearance handling centre for perishable goods providing optimum storage areas for all needs of airlines, forwarders, importers and exporters while concentrating all inspections and border process under one roof including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the United States Department of Agriculture. At a press conference in August of 2010, Francis and then Airport President Federica Nazzani predicted Windsor could become home to a multi-modal freight logistics hub that, by 2012, could employ 350 full-time workers on site and 100 additional workers offsite. Fast forward to late 2013, when a press conference attended by gushing dignitaries — Canada’s Minister of State Gary Goodyear, University of Windsor President, Alan Wildeman and Francis — revealed the federal government and the City of Windsor were investing some $24 million to create cargo handling and research facilities at the University of Windsor and the airport.

The city parlayed $12.6 million from the Southwestern Ontario Economic Development Agency (FedDev Ontario) to construct three state-of-the-art buildings inside the northwest edge of airport lands. The university also pried an additional $7.3 million loose from FedDev to establish the Institute for Border Logistics and Security (IBLS), which included a 10,000 square foot building at 3475 Wheelton Drive, to serve as a headquarters and house researchers to work with importers and exporters on real-world project testing. In November of 2013, City Council agreed to waive property taxes for 10 years on the 35,000 square foot anchor building across the street from IBLS. That cinched the deal to build an extravagant loading and staging structure to be leased to FedEx Express for 30 years, starting at a measly $4 per square foot. FedEx, which relocated from a 32,000 square foot building less than a mile away on Rhodes Drive, was also enticed by getting use of 3.6 acres of airport land for $1 a year. The third building, next to the IBLS headquarters, is 27,000 square feet and was erected with the hope that FedEx’s world-wide profile would attract a cluster of logistics firms and create hundreds, perhaps thousands of jobs to offset those lost in the manufacturing industry. So here we are in the fall of 2017, and it’s time to take stock. A good indicator of how successful the cargo hub has been so far can be gleaned by how many photo op press conferences have been called lately about these projects. The answer is none, not since Wildeman announced the appointment of heralded logistics expert Laurie Tannous as CEO of IBLS in January of 2015. FedEx moved into its new digs some time in 2016 without fanfare. It transferred 51 jobs from the old building. Try to ask any of the principles (at this writing they hadn’t returned my phone calls) how things are going since then and you hear “nothing but crickets.” That includes Airport CEO Carolyn Brown. I know a few things. Nothing has become of the Francis dream to locate all inspection and border processes under one roof at Windsor Airport, although Bill C23, an act respecting pre-clearance of persons and goods in Canada B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

and the United States has received second reading by the House of Commons. Windsor would conceivably be a long shot candidate for one of those locations, although it’s hard to imagine isolationist Donald Trump, the U.S. President, agreeing to the consolidation of border inspections on Canadian soil. Far from the glamorous image of “flying trucks” in and out of Windsor Airport, FedEx’s air freight destined for Canada is currently flown from its North American headquarters in Memphis to Willow Run Airport in Ypsilanti, where it is loaded onto trucks and driven across the border to Windsor and other Canadian cities. The vision of Windsor Airport as a multimodal centre has been relegated to a surface transportation mode of trucks only. The view from Wheelton Drive indicates the spanking new, tax-free FedEx operation is quite busy, but the company, which is experiencing reorganization turmoil, is not commenting on a number of my questions, including the quantity of perishable goods it is handling, and the number of jobs beyond the original 51 it has created. In September of 2015, I learned in my Freedom of Information request, that there are no job guarantees in the city’s contract with FedEx and/ or penalties if job creation targets are not met. Communications Specialist James Anderson, speaking from corporation headquarters in Toronto, said that information is proprietary, although he promised that FedEx will invite me to a public event probably after the Christmas holidays. Meanwhile, I have learned that IBLS, the brainchild of Francis and Wildeman, has experienced hiccups since it was established in late 2013 as a twin to the Cross-Border Institute (CBI), a research team at the university. Directed by Bill Anderson, CBI is conducting extensive data research tracking a billion GPS truck records, radar sensors and traffic. The research is being used to train and enable small and medium-sized businesses on practical testing of new technologies to help them contain costs on predictable delivery times. IBLS was set up as a faculty of the university to accommodate real-world testing of cross-border logistics and security, supply-chain expertise and related technology development. These projects will directly create an estimated 105 jobs, according to a joint press release from the Government of Canada and FedDev Ontario, in the fall of 2013. “This initiative will also include the construction of a multi-modal cargo terminal that will support the development of a Windsor/ Detroit logistics corridor that has the potential to create thousands of jobs in the long term.” In fact, there is only one employee at IBLS. Her name is Susan Anzolin, who was named Executive Director when the Institute quietly became a department of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC) in January of 2017.

As for Tannous, she apparently never left her position at Farrow Logistics as VP of Government Relations and remains a special advisor to the Cross-Border Institute, where she recently spoke at a free trade conference. When I inquired about the sketchy departure from IBLS, Anderson did not return my calls and Tannous sent me the following email: “My apologies I am travelling and have limited access. Happy to be involved in future articles.” Anzolin is a Windsor native who worked for years for the federal government, including 10 years in Ottawa with the Privy Council. She was with FedDev Ontario in Kitchener and pushed for the approval of the Windsor logistics grant. She took the IBLS job, offered by Mayor Drew Dilkens, after she came back to Windsor last year on unpaid leave from the feds to care for her ailing mother. She is working diligently on turning what has been an expensive white elephant into a useful centre of expertise in border logistics and security for dozens of local custom brokerage and warehousing firms. IBLS became a WE EDC department 10 months after the federal government withdrew its operational funding to the university, about three years after a plan was supposed to be in place for the institute to be financially self-sufficient. Anzolin has been busy developing leasing agreements to generate revenue from potential users of the building and drawing up a budget

Susan Anzolin, the happy face of IBLS. Photo courtesy of WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation.

that would pay her salary, which is now covered by WE EDC. She is operating for the time being on a shoestring budget and laughs about decorating the building with her own plants and paintings. “It’s a great time to be head of this organization,” she says expressing confidence that she can use her experience and contacts to attract business and tenants to the IBLS, which offers a board room, fully accessible space for training workshops on border readiness, short term office space for start-up logistic companies and a truck bay available to private-sector companies to test new technologies and conduct demonstration projects. “It’s a great facility . . . everybody who comes into the building is quite impressed,” says Anzolin, noting it has the capability of hosting multiple events at the same time. WE EDC has also been helpful in identifying events and users, which bore fruit with the recent

hosting of two seminars in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of International Trade. “We have not done a great deal in the way of marketing (IBLS),” says Lana Drouillard, Director of Marketing and Communications at WEEDEC. That will change, she says, as the institute plans to promote and educate small and medium-sized businesses on the benefits of the recent federal designation of the region as a Foreign Trade Zone. Anzolin is building partnerships with numerous members of the Windsor Transportation Club. She is on the local NAFTA working group and her 2017 planner includes workshops, meetings and demonstrations on electronic logging devices under trucks, and automated vehicles. Anzolin and Drouillard note four new logistics businesses have opened their doors since January 2017 and several others are interested in establishing a presence in the region. They claim “advanced discussions” are underway to lease the vacant 27,000 square foot building next door to IBLS, to the private sector. That building has office space and four truck bays. “It’s a work in progress,” enthuses Anzolin. “We’re not bursting at the seams but the doors are open. I’m here and trying to work with others. It’s a start-up really. I’m trying to work out what the issues are.” “We’re doing the right things, it might be a little slow,” says Drouillard. But Anzolin adds, “And we’re not alone.”

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FRONTLINES Libro Credit Union Awards Over $160,000 Smackeroos In Windsor Essex! 2017 Libro Prosperity Fund Grants PROJECT NAME: Libro Social Innovators Program Sponsorship Organization: University of Windsor Amount: $89,140 PROJECT NAME: TechBoost Program Sponsorship Organization: Windsor Hackforge Amount: $30,850 PROJECT NAME: Developing Young Leaders Mentorship-Employment Project Sponsorship Organization: Access County Community Support Services Amount: $18,581 PROJECT NAME: Volunteer Homework & Mentorship Program in Leamington Sponsorship Organization: WindsorEssex Children’s Aid Foundation Amount: $9,150 PROJECT NAME: Youth Outdoor Leadership Initiatives Sponsorship Organization: Natural Pathways Learning Centre, Harrow Amount: $6,400

Libro Credit Union (Libro) recently announced the recipients of the 2017 Libro Prosperity Fund with a road show across southwestern Ontario. Libro’s annual granting program is investing $460,000 in 2017 to support programs and projects across southwestern Ontario that are helping to grow prosperity in three focus areas: regional economic development, youth leadership and money-smarts. “Libro’s focus is on growing prosperity in southwestern Ontario, and we invest 100% of our profits right back into the communities we serve,” says Stephen Bolton, Libro Credit Union Head Coach, President and CEO. “These grant recipients demonstrate there is so much more to prosperity that simply saving money. The diversity of their initiatives will open new paths to success across our region and I’m excited to watch these projects unfold.” The Libro Prosperity Fund invested in 30 organizations and community groups whose initiatives support entrepreneurship, financial knowledge and career skill development for young people — all aimed at growing prosperity across the region. “Our focus on growing prosperity means knowing the needs of each community we

PROJECT NAME: ECFA Buy Local Digital Campaign Sponsorship Organization: Essex County Federation of Agriculture Amount: $5,000 PROJECT NAME: EcoKids Sponsorship Organization: LaSalle Hangout for Youth Amount: $5,000 For more details on the recipient projects, please visit: Libro.ca/roadshow.

Essex County Federation of Agriculture: Anne Anger (Secretary/Treasurer, ECFA); Lyle Hall (President, ECFA); Dennis Hogan (Libro Director of the Board); Lynette Bain (VP Tourism Programs & Development, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island) and Wassim Sarweh (Libro Essex Branch Manager).

THANK YOU,

WINDSOR ESSEX COUNTY!

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Hackforge: Terri Grondin-Sweet (Libro Belle River Branch Manager); Gary Baker (Libro Board Chair); Lori Atkinson (Libro Regional Manager Essex-Kent); Jeff McCallum (Owner Representative), Liz Arkinstall (Libro Manager Community Relations); Doug Sartori (Libro Essex) and Katie Facecchia (Board President of Hackforge). Photos courtesy of Libro Credit Union.

serve,” Bolton states. “Each of our 31 branches has a council made up of Owner Representatives who participate in the grant evaluation process and have a voice in the award selection. We believe decisions should reflect the priorities of our Owners and the participation of our Owner Representatives provides a valued perspective.” Listed on the left are the 2017 Prosperity Fund Grant Recipients from Windsor Essex, with some shown in the accompanying photos.

University of Windsor: Douglas Kneale (Provost & VP, Academic); Wen Teoh (Venture Start Director); Nicole Anderson (Program Director, EPICentre Instructor, Odette School of Business); Dr. Francine Schlosser (Executive Director, EPICentre); Gary Baker (Libro Board Chair); Lori Atkinson (Libro Regional Manager, Essex-Kent); Adam Frye (WEtech Alliance); Jeff McCallum (Libro Owner Representative); Alan Wildeman (President & Vice Chancellor, University of Windsor; Liz Arkinstall (Libro Manager Community Relations) and Mitchell Fields (Acting Dean, Odette School of Business).

FRONTLINES Ocean Bottom Soap Company Comes Out On Top With New Location Ocean Bottom Soap Company celebrated the grand opening of their new location on September 14 at 1614 Lesperance Rd. in the Tecumseh Town Centre Plaza (corner of Lesperance Rd. and County Rd. 22). The new store boasts an inviting, more spacious atmosphere. With manufacturing on site, Owner Charmaine Gillis promises, “Each bar of soap continues to be handmade using all natural organic and exotic ingredients found around the globe for their unique properties.” In addition to their full line of soaps, the aromatherapy blending bar features

caring staff assisting customers in selecting essential oils customized for their individual needs. Ocean Bottom’s hand-crafted products include lotion bars, mud masks, lip balms, salts, and deodorants. And, with more retail space, the store now offers exfoliating scrubs, chemical free bug spray, and more. Gillis adds, “Our goal at Ocean Bottom Soap Company is to create wholesome natural products that are environmentally friendly, while promoting a wonderful skin care experience for all ages, even pets.” Customers can learn more by logging onto: OceanBottomSoap.com.

Windsor’s Got Talent Too! Young Singer Releases First EP Windsor’s Teodora Taleski has been singing for as long as she can remember and her dreams have been realized with the release in late September of her first extended play compact disc. Titled, appropriately, “In The Beginning,” the six-song disc features original songs with Taleski herself providing the musical accompaniment. “I am just so super excited with all of this,” says Taleski, a 14 year old grade 9 student at Academie Ste. Cecile. “I’ve loved music ever since I was a little girl and started singing around the house and it’s so exciting to see this all come together now.” Taleski loves listening to R&B and pop music, but focuses on pop songs in her burgeoning career “because I’m not very good at singing R&B, although I love the music.” She has her own YouTube channel (found at: YouTube.com/user/teodorataleski) which

features a selection of cover songs from Celine Dion and Taylor Swift, among others, but for her CD, she decided to write her own lyrics. “They’re not traditional love songs from a girl to a boy because I’m too young to have met the love of my life yet, but they are about love in a different way,” Taleski describes. “Love of your friends, love of a pet and love for your parents, for instance.” Her parents, Mende and Elizabeth Taleski, have been by their daughter’s side throughout the adventure. “I couldn’t have wished for more supportive parents,” says Taleski. “They’re wonderful.” Taleski has written about 30 original songs so far and selected six for her CD, which was released last month during a party at The Walkerville Theatre, and another for a single to be released near Christmas. On her CD she plays piano and adds, “we

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The team at Ocean Bottom Soap Company from left: Owners Mike and Charmaine Gillis with Brittany Gelinas, Julieta Villagomez and Charlene Nurmi. Photo courtesy of Ocean Bottom Soap Company.

Songwriter and Singer Teodora Taleksi recently released her first CD. Photo courtesy of MMG Talent Agency.

have a program which transforms piano notes into notes for a guitar and other instruments so that’s how the music is produced.” Taleski credits Kerri Parks, her vocal teacher, with taking her growing career to the next level. A couple of years ago, Taleski entered four different divisions at an acting and singing talent showcase in Boca Raton, Florida and won prizes in all of them. “I love it all” says Taleski. “In addition to singing, I love the whole production part of it as well because you can hear a song come together from almost nothing to something very special.”

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BRINGING YOU UP TO SPEED ON THE LATEST BUZZ AROUND TOWN! The hotel landscape across Windsor continues to change with more players joining the mix, particularly in the downtown core. Multi-million dollar renovations have turned the former Quality Inn Hotel, 250 Dougall Avenue, into a TownePlace Suites by Marriott property. “We are excited to introduce the TownePlace Suites brand to Windsor,” states Diane Mayer, Vice-President and Global Brand Manager. “We encourage our guests to be real (be themselves) and help them to do so by providing a seamless residential atmosphere.” The property, owned and managed by Toronto’s Sunray Group of Hotels, offers 128 studio and one-bedroom suites with fully-equipped kitchens,

as well as separate living/working and sleeping areas for guests looking for longer stays than at traditional hotels. A few blocks away, at 33 Riverside Drive East, a Travelodge Hotel has been turned into a Holiday Inn Express. Director of Sales Heather Nantau reports the $5 million rebranding was completed by the end of September. It includes complete renovations of all rooms, a new lobby, a two-level breakfast area, a refurbished pool and fitness centre and a new entranceway. There are 156 rooms complete with fridges, microwaves, Keurig coffee machines and in-room safes. There will also be four suites, each with two-rooms and fireplaces. Now that Windsor has Holiday Inn properties on Riverside Drive and Huron Church Road, the future brand of the chain’s property on Ouellette Avenue is uncertain, says Nantau. Meanwhile, at 2498 Dougall Avenue, the former Cadillac Inn will become a Super 8 Motel once renovations are completed. Owner Dave Patel says renovations were delayed because the hotel was fully booked in September by out-oftown property restoration specialists working in Windsor as a result of recent city-wide flooding. “We are completely refitting every room with new furniture, carpets, faucets, sinks, and toilets, adding a large breakfast area as well as a business centre,” mentions Patel, who also owns a hotel in Hamilton. He expects the work to be completed in five months.

In September’s Heard on the Street, it was stated that Origins, an eclectic gift store with two locations in Windsor, was closing its kiosk at Devonshire Mall and moving into an urban space

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in Walkerville. In fact, Origins has moved from its kiosk back to a store location at the mall, next to Purdie’s Chocolates. Origins is also opening a new space at 553 Lincoln Road which will become the store’s third location. “We’re moving back to a store at the mall after working out of a kiosk to accommodate mall expansion work,” says Owner Heather Malec. “Our Walkerville location is urban and edgy in design and we’re very excited about it. It’s a great neighbourhood, we love the vibe it creates and we feel it fits our customer demographic perfectly.” Origins also operates a warehousestyle store at 2580 Manning Road in Tecumseh, which is open year round.

The Town of Tecumseh is seeking a community partner to take on organizing and running its annual corn festival, according to Kerri Rice, Manager of Recreation Programs/ Events. “Council clearly values the corn festival, but it’s a huge event to plan and we are currently seeking a community partner to step in and take it on,” says Rice. She adds that finding a partner “will allow our department to focus on other programs.” Rice says if no community partner is found then council will have to make a decision as to the future of the festival, but that decision has not yet been made. The festival is included in the recreation department’s budget for 2018, which will be presented to council in the near future. There are no strict timelines in place, Rice notes. The festival recently celebrated its 42nd anniversary in August, with attendance up from previous years, and four days of perfect weather.

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was there! “Oh yes, it’s Ladies Night” . . . oh what a night!” Williams Food Equipment, 2150 Ambassador Drive in Windsor hosted this third annual evening just for the girls on September 21, 2017. But, who needs Kool & The Gang when you have Executive Chef Daniele Palanca and his team from Ambassador Golf Club! Chef Palanca (second from left), along with Sous Chefs David Aziz and Alex Merryfield and Master Chef Glenn van Blommestein, served up hors d’oeuvres such as shrimp tempura with sweet chili sauce, cucumber ceviche with scallops, shrimp and fresh dill strawberries with goat cheese, oven roasted pizza and delicious cream puffs.

Retail Manager Joel Beneteau (left) and Reid Williams, Retail & Purchasing Manager for Williams Food Equipment manned the silent auction tables where 100% of the money raised was donated to Hiatus House (as was 10% of all sales that night). $2,800 was raised.

Williams Food Equipment photos by Della Jones-Goulet.

Since it was “Ladies Night” there were plenty of men on site catering to the 200 female guests in attendance, including Wayne Bentley from Riedel, the wine glass company. Peter, left, and Ralph Vitti have high hopes for their third restaurant, Spago Trattoria, inside Caesars Windsor, to carry on the family legacy, which started in 1990. Their new location opened in September, conveniently located adjacent to the Augustus Hotel lobby, but other locations can be found at 690 Erie Street East and 3850 Dougall Avenue in Windsor.

Spago photos by Rod Denis.

Spago Chef Benjamin Atkinson (left) and Executive Chef Robert Bertozzi are Red Seal Certified Chefs who have focused on Italian fare from the Rome region using the latest in kitchen technology, while keeping the spirit of tradition alive. The menu features a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes prepared daily, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

An exclusive media tasting event was held in early September that featured the traditional ribbon cutting cere-mony with longtime staffers and casino management. In the photo from left: Mehdi Mirzakhani, Taylor Giorgi, Richard Panazzola, Mena Ghost, Owners Peter Vitti and Ralph Vitti, Anna Vitti and Glen Sawhill, Senior Vice President, Caesars Windsor.

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Who says you can’t eat sweets before the main meal? Spago’s Taylor Giorgi and Ralph Vitti brought out the desserts first for the media, which were nutella stuffed crepes and assorted breakfast crostini. To read more about Spago’s history surf over to the website: Spagos.ca.

To see even more photos from local events visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X Was There!” The 9th annual “Shar’s Ride for MS” was held on September 17 with 109 riders raising $15,000 for the MS Society of Canada (Windsor-Essex Chapter). The event would not be possible without the volunteers, from left (Front Row): Shar Good, Yolande Murphy, Connie Richardson, Fran Sales, Margaret Ouellette, Tina Durocher, Bethany Ouellette, Natasha Martin and Bianca Heuchan. (Back Row): Scott White, Tom Good, Heather Lindsey, Jessica Marie Quenneville, This year the MS Ride started and finished at a new location, (unknown “Photo Bomber”), Shelley Pinsonneault, Jim Richardson, Gerry Pinsonneault and Bob Durocher. The Moose Lodge 1499 at 777 Tecumseh Road West, Windsor. Dan Batson, Administrator and Amy Renaud, Bartender, were just a few of the staff members looking after the 109 hungry and thirsty riders who enjoyed drinks and a family style dinner (237 guests in total).

MS Ride photos by Rod Denis.

The Red Knights Motorcycle Club Association is composed of members from the fire service and their families in the Province of Ontario; who are enthusiastic about the sport of motorcycle riding. Once again the local chapter gave their time to support Shar Good’s fight against MS. They were from left: Noel Meloche, Ernest Meloche, Marcel Mailloux, Gail Nantais, Patrick Mullins, Mike Nantais, Sherri Campeau, Sarah Campeau, Roger Langis, and Larry Campeau.

Poker stops in the MS Ride also included Hungry Wolf, Garfield’s, Sandbar, Jake’s Joint and the Stoney Point Sportsmen’s Club. Back at The Moose Lodge, Shar Good and her husband Tom prepare to ride off into the sunset on their faithful old Harley — the perfect end to a beautiful day. Check out more details about next year’s ride at: Ride-For-MS.ca.

Players came from as far away as Michigan, but of course there was lots of local representation including the two corporate teams from Dakkota Integrated Systems, pictured. They were part of 11 teams who played all day in the sand in hopes of winning first place. But, better luck next time, LOL! Get the scoop on the 2018 event at: Facebook.com/bordercitysportsandevents.

The Inaugural “Biz X Beach Bash Volleyball Tournament,” organized by Border City Sports and Events (under President John Dunstan pictured with Administrator Tammy Young) took place at On The Beach, 354 Croft Drive, Tecumseh, on September 16. Part of the proceeds benefited The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN The Giovanni Caboto Club has opened up nominations for the “2017 Italian of the Year.” This honour is bestowed on a person from the Italian community of Windsor and surrounding area, who has demonstrated high achievement in his/her field of endeavour. A nomination application can be picked up at the Caboto Club office, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor. Deadline for applications is October 23, 2017 at 5 p.m. A gala to honour the chosen individual takes place March 3, 2018. Check: CabotoClub.com if you need more details. After 13 years of building their business, LucasWorks! has become another Canadian success story. As of September 2017 the Windsor based firm (2892 Kew Drive; LucasWorks.ca) is now part of the dynamic leader in the industry, Design Group Staffing Inc. (DGSI). “Bringing the strengths of both companies together to serve the Windsor Essex market will add expanded capabilities and expertise in this economy’s most important challenge, finding the right talent to build corporate cultures,” says Maureen Lucas, Owner and President of LucasWorks! “Great advancements will continue to happen for Windsor based businesses. We are thrilled to become a part of another great company that is committed to our clients, temporary employees and internal staff that will leverage some of the creative and innovative solutions we have built over the years.” In August 2017 ARIIUS Nightclub & Ultralounge (inside Caesars Windsor) received the Best Bar None (BBN) Ontario designation. It is the first business in Windsor to receive the accreditation. BBN Ontario is led by the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association. Businesses accredited

by BBN maintain the highest standards for their customers and staff, manage the sale and service of alcohol responsibly, and have good relationships with the community and hospitality industry partners. Kash Hasan, President of ARIIUS International Group & ARIIUS Nightclub, states, “It’s truly an honour that we, as a local Windsor business, met the strict and rigorous criteria that is demanded by all BBN members. We are now recognized by setting the benchmark for excellence and welcome other local restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to join this renowned accreditation program. We join an elite group that are best of breed in major cities like Toronto and Ottawa. We are next to names like The Air Canada Centre and powerhouse nightclubs like Maison of Toronto.” More information at: BBNOntario.ca and Ariius.com.

Cogeco launched, in mid-September, a new season of local television on its community channel in Windsor. Johanne Hinse, Vice President of Consumer Sales and Community Relations, states “Our local channels are an important part of what Cogeco puts back into the communities we serve. We value these connections and we are proud of our teams who care deeply about local programming.” Cogeco also unveiled the new branding for the channel. The channels which have been operating as CogecoTV are now called YourTV. Tim Caddigan, Senior Director Programming and Community Relations notes “The change

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in our brand closely reflects our mandate and our role in the communities we serve.” In Windsor, the schedule is a mix of old and new. “We will continue our mandate to provide our viewers with truly local television,” describes Manager of Programming and Community Relations, Robert Scussolin. “All your favourite shows will be back reflecting our vibrant community as well as a few new shows featuring local talent.” YourTV, exclusive to Cogeco subscribers, is available on channel 700.

NEW IN BIZ After 30 years of painting large scale murals and creating life size historical bronze monuments (Hiram Walker, Chief Tecumseh and Brock: a few of the upcoming monuments to be unveiled within six months), Mark Williams agreed to share a large portion of his working studio with his wife Laura Williams. Set to open in early November 2017, it will be a fascinating 1,500 sq. ft. shop appealing to both men and women, young and old, and all budgets. According to the couple, there will be many unique items at Imagine That! Located in Maidstone at Cosy Corners, 13072 Talbot Road (at Manning), you can browse through paintings, sculptures, gifts, home décor, slot car kits, man cave collectibles, gourmet edibles, hostess gifts and specialty soaps, oils and lotions. Special interest items for Collectors and Historians — replica ships, armaments and more. Hours of operation will be: Wednesday to Friday noon to 6 pm and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the holiday season ( November and December) they’ll be open until 7 p.m. on Thursday and Fridays.

In mid-September, Cindy’s, Kingsville’s premier gift, home, fashion and garden store, announced the grand opening of Cindy’s Olive Oil Company. Find a vast selection of olive oils, balsamic vinegar, gourmet spreads and accessories that are sure to thrill any foodie at heart. The staff also reports with great honour and excitement that the ranking of 465 of the Top 500 fastest growing companies in Canada for PROFIT 500 was achieved by Cindy’s. This is Cindy’s fifth year in a row making this amazing list of great Canadian companies. The entire team are overjoyed and humbled by this award. Learn more online at: CindysGarden.com or stop by their location, 585 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO . . . In August Allegra Marketing-Print-Mail/ Image360 celebrated their 30th anniversary of serving businesses in the local Windsor community. “We are very pleased to reach this important milestone with our business,” says George Kummer, Vice President of Centre Operations for the marketing and graphics companies. “Providing solutions, evolving technologies, and outstanding customer service have been keys to our business success. Our goal is to continue building strong relationships with our customers and consulting with them on ‘total solutions’ to their marketing and graphics communications needs. We are dedicated to our customers’ success and are driven to provide them with the best possible marketing and communications solutions possible.” Located at 1800 Huron Church Road, Allegra is a full-service marketing communications provider, offering marketing consultation, copywriting and graphic design services, advanced printing technologies including fullcolour printing, complete finishing services, mailing services, variable data capabilities, promotional products, branded apparel and print management solutions. Image360 provides professional graphic solutions to regional businesses and organizations. From

the simplest signage projects to the most complex, trained graphics, specialists work closely with clients to maximize the creativity and visual impact of environmental graphics, mobile graphics, way-finding solutions (directional signage) and promotional displays. For more information visit one of the company’s websites: AllegraWindsorEssex.ca or Image360Windsor.com.

3690 Walker Road, the specialty senior and rehabilitation company assists families in Windsor and Essex County to remain safe, happy and independent in the comfort of their own homes. “We are looking forward to being a part of this growing, tight knit community in Walkerville,” says Owner Adam Budrewicz.

ON THE MOVE

The WindsorEssex Small Business Centre (SBC; 700 California Avenue, Suite 200, Windsor and 39 Maidstone Avenue East, Unit 5, Essex) has won a Gold Excellence in “Economic Development Award” for its Small Business E-Newsletter, a project in the category of Newsletter/Newspaper of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC; iedcONLINE.org.). An awards ceremony took place on September 19 in Toronto where the honour was presented to Sabrina DeMarco, SBC Executive Director and Natasha Marar, Business Advisor. SBC publishes a monthly e-newsletter capturing the latest news, events and business spotlights; distributed to clients, stakeholders and the community. The highlight of each edition is the small business spotlight, which profiles a unique business as the cover and features the person behind the scenes; their competitive advantage and personal perspective. In addition, the SBC earned a Silver Excellence in “Economic Development Award” for its Small Business Website, a project in the category of General Purpose Website of IEDC. The website — WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com — is a hub of information for starting a business in the Windsor Essex region. It directs users through rules/regulations, financial incentives, writing a business proposal, import/export, marketing, taxation, hiring, and more. It is an important strategic marketing tool demonstrating the Centre’s mandate and services and works to educate and foster the development of entrepreneurship. Congrats to everyone at the SBC on these two fantastic achievements!

Essex Council (Essex.ca) recently appointed Donna Hunter to the position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). “Mrs. Hunter has been an important part of our senior administration since first coming to Essex in 2002 to serve as the Town’s Treasurer,” says Mayor Ron McDermott. “Over the years, we have relied on Mrs. Hunter to shepherd us through a number of challenging times — such as when we switched from municipal policing to OPP contract policing, and when we purchased ELK Energy. She is an invaluable resource to Council, staff and the community, and we are very pleased that she has accepted this appointment.” Hunter has many years of experience in municipal finance and administration, having worked for the Regional Municipality of Peel and as the Treasurer and Deputy Clerk for the Town of Geraldton. She also possesses a solid knowledge of the private sector, having worked as Manager of Regulatory Accounting for TransCanada Pipelines, General Manager and Controller for Greenveld, and Vice President of Finance and Administration for ForestCare International. As Director of Corporate Services and Treasurer for the Town of Essex since 2007, Hunter has contributed to the overall growth of the Town through her efforts in building financial sustainability and establishing by-laws, policies and practices that foster continuous improvement. As of early October the head office for Comfort Keepers In-Home Care is now located at 400 Chilver Road, Suite 210 in Olde Walkerville. After almost eight years at

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HALL OF FAME

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OCT/MID NOV2017 D AT E S T O R E M E M B E R

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

Having an event? Submit your listing to us at: Bizxmagazine.com and InPlaymagazine.com

VISIT: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND INPLAYMAGAZINE.COM AND CLICK ON THE “EVENTS” TAB TO SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE BORDER CITIES!

WINDSOR ESSEX *unless noted the area code to dial is 519 Oct.9: Happy Thanksgiving! Oct.18: “Know Your Power — Helping Business Reduce Energy Costs” presented by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor starting at 7:30 a.m. until 9 a.m. For more info on this free event, email:mburke@windsorchamber.org; go to: WindsorChamber.org or call 966-3696. Oct.18: To celebrate “Small Business Month” in Canada, be sure to visit the “Small Biz Expo” at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor from 5 to 9 p.m. Free to attend. More info at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com /expo; in cover story of this edition or call 253-6900. Oct.20: “Wines of the World” at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts with music by Pat Pagano and Nino Palazzolo. Get more details on page 37 of this edition or call 981-1713. Oct.21 & 22: The “Windsor Orchid Society Show” at St. Cyril’s Slovak Centre, 1520 Chandler Road in Windsor from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. (Saturday and until 4 p.m. Sunday). Admission is $6 but those 12 and under are free to attend. For more details go to: WindsorOrchidSociety.ca; send an email to: Debul8ter@outlook.com; or call 252-7342. Oct.23: The “Culinary Guild of Windsor/ ORHMA Gala Evening of Excellence” at Essex Golf & Country Club. See what’s cooking up for this event on pages 38 & 39! Oct.25 to 27: The Passing the Torch Committee presents an educational exhibit entitled, “Remembering the Great War” in partnership with our Boards of Education. Through school tours, students will discover more about our local military history via tours at the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association Hangar, 2600 Airport Road

(behind the Windsor Airport). As well on Oct. 28 a family open house takes place at the hangar from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will feature a free concert (for all ages) with music from the WWI era and other inspirational tunes at 1:30 p.m. For additional information send an email to: passingthetorch@hotmail.com or phone Karen at 968-3474. Oct.28: The 5th annual “Windsor Zombie Walk” invades Dieppe Gardens, 78 Riverside Drive West in Windsor from 6 to 9 p.m. Zombies and survivors are welcome to tread with participants for a ghoulish good time. Pre walk fun, games and prizes! Organizers aim to fill the Downtown Mission shelves so please bring canned goods and non-perishable items if you can attend. Cash donations are also welcome. For further information email: lorides1972@gmail.com; visit Facebook under “2017 Windsor Zombie Walk” or call 819-4156. Oct.29: The Windsor Moose Lodge 1499 presents its third annual “Honour of Duty Veterans Brunch” (free for all military service Veterans). Deadline to purchase tickets is Oct. 23. For ticket information and event time visit the “Windsor Moose Lodge 1499” page on Facebook or call 253-1834 . Oct.31: “Emerging Technologies in Automation Conference and Trade Show” presented by the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation at Caesars Windsor, Augustus Ballroom, 377 Riverside Drive East from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. $75 for attendees and $150 for exhibitors to attend. For info, email: lmcgrath@choosewindsoressex.com; log onto website: ChooseWindsorEssex.com/ emergingtechnologies or call 997-2395. Oct.31: Have a spooktacular Halloween! Nov.3: The “Windsor Fashion Festival” presented by Royal and Rose Boutique at The Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside

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Drive East in Windsor from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m. As the event name suggests this is a night of fashion showcasing fall clothing and accessories from local boutiques and designers through vendors and a fashion show. Your $20 ticket includes a welcome cocktail and proceeds to the Addolorata De Luca Leadership Scholarship. For details email: windsor womeninbusiness@gmail.com; check out: WindsorWomenInBusiness.com/ windsor-fashion-festival-2017 or call 996-9255. Nov.8: “Firefighters Chilifest” 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts with all proceeds to the Windsor Professional Firefighters Benefit Fund. Sparky’s Toy Drive donation box on site. For further details on where to get tickets visit: WindsorFirefighters.org or call John Picco, 965-1024. Nov.10: The R.C.C.G. Throne of Grace of Windsor presents the fifth annual “In His Presence” free gospel concert featuring Travis Greene at 405 Victoria Street in Windsor (doors open 6 p.m., concert 6:30 p.m.). Freewill offering collected at the venue to support future events and other charitable projects. First come, first in. For more details, view: InHisPresenceWindsor.ca or call 971-0019. Nov.10: Join Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare for their annual “Big Night Gala” at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Rd in Oldcastle starting at 6 p.m. Admission is $90 per person or $850 for tables of 10. This gala supports mental health programs at their facility and guests enjoy a night of fine dining, prizes and entertainment. For information on supporting this event, refer to: HDGH.org/bignightgala or you may contact Linda D’Aloisio by emailing: linda.daloisio@hdgh.org or calling, 257-5111 ext. 76922. Nov.10: Celebrate 70 years of the United Way during “reUnited” at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor from

4 till 10 p.m. Admission (gourmet appetizers included) is $35 or $25 for retirees and students. For more information visit: WeAreUnited.com send email: 70years@weareunited.com; or dial 258-0000 ext 1178. Nov.11: Stigma Enigma presents Silken Laumann, Champion Rower for its annual “Mingle For Mental Health” gala at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor starting at 5:30 p.m. This is an evening of live music, delicious food, and prizes in support of Maryvale’s Mental Health Hospital. Tickets are $150 per person or $1,300 per table. For information log on to: StigmaEnigma.ca or Maryvale.ca; call Maryvale, 258-0484 or Dr. Patrick Smith, 819-1119. Nov.13: The Salvation Army presents the third annual “Hope in the City Luncheon” in partnership with the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) at Giovanni Caboto Club (2175 Parent Avenue) beginning at 11:45 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. with Keynote Speaker, former Detroit Lions Quarterback, Eric Hipple. For your $20 ticket or if you have any questions, email: shannon_wise@can.salvationarmy.org; visit website: HopeInTheCityWindsor.ca or call 253-7473 ext. 215. Nov.13 to 17: “Tech Week YQG” is a week long showcase of all things techie! One of the highlights takes place Nov. 14 with the “Windsor Essex Tech Show: Artificial Intelligence (AI)” presented by Windsor-Essex

Regional Chamber of Commerce at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West in Windsor. Event runs from 7:30 a.m. until noon with IBM, Amazon, and General Motors breaking down the world of AI through their knowledge of machine learning, predictive analytics, and information visualization. Please refer to page 26 to learn more or email: mburke@windsorchamber.org, or call the Chamber at 966-3696. Nov.16: The Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation presents the 20th anniversary of “Cops Care For Kids Fashion Show & Silent Auction” at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road in Oldcastle from 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m. Once again, the Windsor Police Service joins the Ontario Provincial Police, as well as Amherstburg, and LaSalle Police Services for a truly exceptional event and show! The evening of fashion and fanfare includes many of our local community and civic leaders, feature models from all police service, children, and youth wearing collections from Essex County’s finest retailers. You might even see someone from Biz X magazine on the runway! The event also includes a delicious meal prepared by the Ciociaro Club, a silent auction and a raffle for terrific prizes. Admission is $85 per person or $765 for table of 10. For more info email: info@wecaf.on.ca; see website: WECAF.on.ca or phone 252-1171 ext. 3236. Nov.17: The 20th annual “Biz X Awards

Gala” (by invite only) at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. If you are a 2017 Biz X Award nominee, save the date as invites go out in the mail early November! Nov.17 to Nov 26: “Mamma Mia!” presented by Windsor Light Music Theatre at 8 p.m. at the Chrysler Theatre, 201 Riverside Drive West in Windsor. Admission is $36 for adults. For more info or to find out about matinee performances go online to: WindsorLight.com; call 974-6593; or email: ticketmanager@windsorlight.com. Nov.19: The “Holiday Gifts & More” show presented by Seacret Agent LouAnne Hunt at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 261 on Lesperance Road, just off Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh. This one-day special event, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., showcases local homebased businesses with craft items and holiday goodies all under one roof! Featuring all of the products you love, such as: Framed Art pieces, Tupperware, Seacret Skin Care, Scentsy, Ladies apparel and fine costume jewellery accents by Diane Gibb, Steeped Tea, J. Temple Photography, Younique Beauty Boutique and more! For a list of new companies added daily, check: Facebook.com/events/427588940970489 Bring the whole family for a day of browsing and lunch! Admission is FREE and many of the vendors have free giveaways and draws at their tables. For more info dial 735-4454 or email: holidaygifts17@gmail.com.

1643 MCDOUGALL AVE., WINDSOR. 1-888-699-1775 GOODWILLEKL.COM

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COVER STORY By Dave Hall

For Small Business!

North 42 Degrees Estate Winery Owners Martin Gorski (right) and his wife Suzanne Dajczak and Steve Meehan, General Manager and Executive Chef for North 42 Bistro, toast to the opening of their new building. Discover their passion for winemaking by tasting any of their wines pictured from left: 2016 Pinot Noir, 2016 Cabernet Franc, 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 2016 Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc, 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 2016 Riesling Reserve, 2016 Gewurztraminer, 1867-2017 EPIC Summer Chill, 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Rose, and 2013 Sauvignon Blanc. Photo by Rod Denis.

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major $1 million expansion has turned Colchester’s North 42 Degrees Estate Winery into one of the most attractive destinations in Essex County. As “Small Business Month” is celebrated across Canada during October, it’s also worth noting that North 42 Degrees Estate Winery (North42degrees.com) is one of the most successful small businesses in the region at a time when such businesses are growing and continuing to be economic drivers across the country. The 17 acre award-winning vineyard at 130 County Road 50 East in Colchester also features North 42 Bistro, which was expected to be open by the beginning of October. The new bistro aims to add to the winery experience for the many guests who pass through the vineyard’s gates every year. “It’s an ambitious project that’s been a long time in the planning and execution and we believe it will be well-received once it’s open,” says Steve Meehan, General Manager and Executive Chef at North 42 Bistro. With four second-floor patios overlooking both the vineyard and Serenity Lavender Farm, also owned by the winery, there will be seating for about 140 people. One of the second-floor patios features a double-sided fireplace for cooler days and evenings. The Executive Chef adds there are also plans for a two-acre produce garden to supply the new restaurant and meats, cheese and other products will be sourced locally, as much as possible. Meehan, who is trained in classical European cuisine as well as being a proponent of South American and Asian dishes, notes the menu will include small plates, shared dishes and full meal options. In addition to being an award-winning winery and producer of such varietals as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, North 42 is also the quintessential family-owned small business. Opened in September 2012 by Owners Martin Gorski and his wife Suzanne Dajczak, the winery has already won multiple national and international awards, including a double gold for its 2012 Pinot Noir. Gorski comments there were multiple reasons for the major renovations and expansion at the five year old winery. “Serenity, our sister company, is planning on producing and selling jams and jellies so

it needed a commercial-quality kitchen, and at the winery, we decided to offer more food options for our customers and visitors,” says Gorski. “So, for those two reasons alone, we decided to embark on this project.” Serenity produces 45 different varieties of lavender and will now share space in North 42’s retail store with the winery. “It’s all part of our mission to bring something new and fresh to our winery and provide additional reasons for people to visit a beautiful part of not only Essex County, but the entire country,” adds Gorski. Gorski states that the Municipality of Essex was very supportive of the plans and offered advice and direction about how to proceed. With the exception of cost-sharing grants from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs relating to the kitchen expansion, the project was financed by North 42 and provides additional reasons to visit the award-winning winery. “It’s very gratifying to all of us to reach a point where our business can sustain such a major investment and expansion,” says Gorski. “As far as we are concerned the timing is perfect.” Small businesses, such as North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, are the engines that drive economic activity across Canada and the Windsor Essex region is no exception. October is “Small Business Month” across the country and the Small Business Centre, a partner of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC), is marking the occasion with the third annual “Small Biz Expo” at the Caboto Club on October 18. The expo runs from 5 to 9 p.m. and full details can be found at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com/expo. “It’s designed to showcase the diversity of small businesses across Windsor and Essex County,” says Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director of the Small Business Centre. “We have fashion designers, coffee shops, restaurants, wineries, clothing boutiques, breweries, retail stores and many others, all of whom also support other small businesses across the region by buying local products.” “Most of these small businesses provide the anchors along main street in municipalities across the region,” says DeMarco of the importance of local entrepreneurs to the general regional economy. Among the businesses participating in

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this year’s expo are: Robbie’s Gourmet Sausage Co., I LUV Coffee, Little Foot Foods, Sweet Revenge Bake Shop, Licia Ruby Food Co., Urban Art Market, Windermere Art Gallery, Witch and Whimsy, Dave’s Woodworking, H’OM Wellness Centre, Optimal Chiropractic, and Biz X magazine. Last year’s event attracted more than 50 small business exhibitors and nearly 400 attendees. Admission to the event is free but attendees are asked to bring canned goods or make charitable donations. Businesses represented at the expo are just the tip of the local small business iceberg. Across Windsor and Essex County, there are 28,113 businesses with fewer than nine employees, providing jobs for more than 100,000 employees. According to the Small Business Centre (SBC; 700 California Avenue, Suite 200, Windsor & 39 Maidstone Avenue East, Unit 5, Essex), 90 percent of the businesses in the Windsor Essex Region have fewer than 10 employees. There are hundreds of successful small business stories across the WindsorEssex region and what follows are a few shining examples.

Performance Fire Protection

Months after their previous employer closed its doors, Marlene Turcotte and Lou Duguay became business partners and decided to put their collective experience to good use by starting their own company.

Lou Duguay and Marlene Turcotte, Owners of Performance Fire Protection Ltd. are shown with some of their fire suppression products in their service centre at 1151 Tecumseh Road West in Windsor. Photo by Dave Hall.

In July, Turcotte and Duguay opened Performance Fire Protection Ltd. at 1151 Tecumseh Road West in Windsor, with no financial help except for their own savings. “It was a leap of faith to be sure after collecting a regular pay cheque, but

it’s what we know how to do,” remarks Turcotte, the company’s Chief Financial Officer. “Lou is great on the technical side and I know the office procedures so we make a great team.” Performance, members of UA Local 853 of the Sprinkler Fitters of Ontario, provides inspections, sales and service for all fire suppression systems including fire extinguishers, sprinklers and fire alarms to mostly commercial and industrial clients, as well as apartment buildings. Both Turcotte and Duguay say their business model is focused on customer service, which continues well beyond after a sale is made. “Most of our inspections are annual or semi-annual, so you know you are going back to a client on a regular basis, so your customer service had better be first rate,” stresses Duguay. There are currently eight employees, including Turcotte and Duguay, most of whom are fully trained to provide repair services on a 24/7 basis. “It’s all been about hard work and dedication so far and the first four months have been very good,” says Turcotte.

“We’re both here 10 hours a day or longer, but that’s normal for anyone operating a small business.” Turcotte indicates that the company is slowly building a client list across Windsor and Essex County, but quoted on a job in Orillia recently based on word-of-mouth recommendations from an existing client. Performance Fire Protection is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments can also be booked online at: PerformanceFire.ca.

Silver Stitch Embroidery

When Karen Cichon began her business 27 years ago, she never expected to still be in operation more than two decades later. “I was just a mom working out of my home making dresses when I decided to take a leap of faith and open the business,” recalls Cichon. “I never thought about going to work just to make money. I always thought I would go to work, do something I enjoy and that I’d get paid at the end of the week.” Dress-making has been phased out over the years but Silver Stitch (SilverStitch.ca)

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Karen Cichon, Owner of Silver Stitch Embroidery at 1304 Lauzon Road in Windsor, poses with a few of her many specialty products. Photo by Dave Hall.

still offers clothing alterations, embroidery, screen printing and full colour transfers. “We’ve added services as customers have requested them over the years,” states Cichon who has seven employees. “We’ve also added equipment as needed and I’m very proud of the fact that eight years ago I was able to buy our building with no outside co-signers.” Cichon, who will celebrate her 40 th wedding anniversary with husband Mike in January, says she and her employees consider themselves a small supportive family who always cover for each other. “There are no set breaks or lunch periods,” Cichon explains. “If you want a

coffee, you simply go and get one. They are all on their honour to get the work completed, and it always is, so there are never any issues.” Cichon is proud of the fact her business subscribes to a living wage philosophy and she also offers employee benefits such as medical and dental coverage. Silver Stitch, located at 1304 Lauzon Road in Windsor, is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Great Presentations

This women’s clothing boutique and gift store was opened in 2012 by business partners Barb Sandre and Mary Lynn Berthiaume who had been friends since grade one. Berthiaume tragically passed away from an aneurysm in March of this year and Sandre has vowed to keep the business going in her best friend’s memory. “I’m on my own here right now, but I’m going to do my best to keep going,” declares Sandre, who added that Berthiaume’s death was totally unexpected. Sandre, a retired high school math

Barb Sandre, Owner of Great Presentations, is photographed in her women’s clothing and eclectic gift store in the Urban Selections Plaza on Malden Road in LaSalle. Photo by Dave Hall.

teacher, had been operating a home-based gift business until Berthiaume retired from her job and the two friends decided to open their own store. They started in a small house on Dougall Avenue in Windsor before moving to LaSalle four years ago. “It was a challenge at first, but it has been going very well,” says Sandre. “We used to be mostly a gift store but our customers kept telling us they wanted clothes and more clothes.” Sandre has always done all the clothes buying for the store and mentions “It’s the best part of my job. I just love buying.” At present, Sandre is the store’s only

employee, although a few friends and relatives help out at times. She indicates her customers range in age from mid-30s to 70. “Today, our products are about 80 percent clothes and 20 percent gifts,” says Sandre. “I will never totally eliminate the gifts because that’s how we started.” The store features unique fashions, accessories, décor and gift items as well as shower and wedding favours from such companies as Lisette, DKR and Co., Parkhurst, Saxx, Snoozies, Crabtree & Evelyn and Claire Burke. Great Presentations is located at 5975 Malden Road, LaSalle in the Urban Selections Plaza (GreatPresentations.ca). It’s open Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Just Plus Of Essex & Golden Girl Fashions

After spending most of her working life in the medical field, Mary-Anne Bjorkman felt the need for a change seven years ago and jumped into business ownership with both feet. Now, she’s the owner of both Just Plus of Essex at 43 Talbot Street North in Essex

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Mary-Ann Bjorkman, Owner of Just Plus of Essex and the adjacent Golden Girl Fashions, is pictured inside Just Plus at 43 Talbot Road North in Essex. Photo by Dave Hall.

and also Golden Girl Fashions, directly across the street at 48 Talbot Street North. “I felt there was a need in Essex for comfortable fashions for both older women and plus-sized women,” Bjorkman expresses. “Most everything you find in chain stores these days is for the younger generations, but women of all ages and sizes want to be fashionable, stylish and comfortable.” Bjorkman has taken advantage of Community Improvement Plan grants offered by the Municipality of Essex for storefront facade improvements. The plan

launched earlier this year offers grants of up to $2,000 for business owners who want to spruce up their storefronts and make them more welcoming. She adds, “The grants were very helpful because there are many owners who want to give their businesses a fresh look and this helps a great deal.” Bjorkman, who has five employees in the two stores, including herself, believes everyone still wants to travel and they all cover for each other. “I love working for myself and this gives me the freedom to do so,” she says. “Business has been very good and I’m grateful to everyone who has supported these two businesses.” Just Plus sells fashions and accessories for sizes extra-large to triple extra-large from Joseph Ribkoff, Simon Chang, Parsley and Sage and Jess and Jane among others. It’s open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bjorkman says she is still working on developing a website and that more information about the stores is available on Facebook.

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The Importance Of Credit Unions

And while small businesses are owned and operated by entrepreneurs, many of whom tapped into friends, family and their own savings to launch their businesses, there are also lending institutions willing to help out with seed money. Libro Credit Union offers coaching, advice and mentorship programs for owners of small and medium-sized enterprises, according to Essex-Kent Regional Manager Lori Atkinson. “In addition to helping entrepreneurs take their business from the idea stage to launch, we also provide advice about business plans and financial statements with the aim of developing a continuing relationship with new business owners,” says Atkinson. “We are vested in their success.” Libro (Libro.ca) has also developed a partnership with WEtech Alliance with the launch of Libro StartUP, an accelerator program that supports entrepreneurs of all ages across Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent. The program, which also includes mentoring opportunities and practical

or capital expenses and commercial mortgages for those buying property,” he adds. He mentions MCCCU has also worked with the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator in making presentations to prospective business owners including financial, regulatory and mentoring advice. “We are also in a position to offer micro loans of between $10,000 and $500,000 to help small business owners in need of funding,” Schincariol notes. Beyond lending institutions, the Small Business Centre (SBC) is also available to help entrepreneurs launch their businesses by providing advice, mentoring opportunities and start-up grants of up to $5,000 for qualified local business owners. “We work with business owners who have been in business for up to five years and have fewer than 10 employees,” informs SBC Executive Director Sabrina DeMarco. “We provide general consultation services, work with entrepreneurs to refine their ideas, help them with business plans and advice about advertising and marketing, as well as more practical issues such as taxation, structure, licensing and rules and regulations.”

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business advice through WEtech, is made possible by a $50,000 grant from the Libro Prosperity Fund. For more information on the program, visit: WEtech-Alliance.com. Libro is also working with WE EDC’s Small Business Centre to deliver financial literacy programs to new and existing small business owners. “It’s really remarkable how supportive the local entrepreneurship community is of each other’s business ventures,” Atkinson comments. “Small businesses truly are the economic drivers in every community and small business owners recognize that and simply want to be supportive of anyone wishing to start their own business.” Meanwhile, Motor City Community Credit Union (MCCCU.com), by virtue of its size and the fact it is based entirely in the Windsor area with various locations, is able to offer quick and nimble services to owners of small businesses, according to MCCCU’s Steve Schincariol. “At the delivery end, we are able to react quickly to the needs of our members,” says Schincariol. “We offer a full range of business services including commercial lines of credit, term loans for equipment

SBC also offers mentoring advice from existing entrepreneurs who have already been through the program, as well as others who volunteer their services to help fellow entrepreneurs realize their dreams. Details of the programs available to start-up business owners can be found on the Small Business Centre’s website at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com.

Small Business Makes The World Go Round

The future of any region is largely based on the success of its small business owners. They provide employment and create more jobs and investment than many larger businesses and are deserving of local support. Be sure to shop or use the services of Windsor Essex small businesses every chance you can!

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT

Attracting Talent And Investment To Windsor Via Detroit By Arthur Barbut

ast month, from September 6th Accelerator and Windsor as through the 8th of this year, the launching pad for high tech Detroit hosted “Technology in Canadian start-ups to the U.S. Motion” (TIM), the largest mobility market. exhibition in North America. In addition we can act as a The conference featured global landing pad for U.S. companies mobility leaders, and the topics wanting access international ranged from the latest advancements markets through Canada’s in autonomous and electric vehicles, favourable trade agreements to connected cars, shared economy with Europe and China. and more. The message was clear, This fits perfectly with the Detroit will become the innovation efforts made by Dan Gilbert mobility hub of the world. to attract the best tech talent During his talk, visionary Dan in order to compete with Gilbert suggested that we are merely Silicon Valley. scratching the surface of what Detroit We are already seeing a has the potential to become. great deal of interest from the He’s invested more than $2.2 billion tech communities in Toronto to purchase and renovate more than and Kitchener/Waterloo, which 95 commercial properties, accounting are attracted to the affordable for 15 million square feet in the city’s cost of living in Windsor and urban core. His companies employ the amazing big city delights over 30,000 across the U.S. with offered by Detroit — a five nearly 17,000 working in downtown minute bus ride away. This will Detroit. also ensure that the brightest One of the most interesting taketalents graduating from the a-ways from the conference was University of Windsor Gilbert’s comments when he was and St. Clair College will asked to reveal the secret to the have the opportunity to stay in great success of his ventures. Like the region, thus reversing the all great leaders he suggested it was brain drain. the company culture. I could not Windsor Essex business professionals must tap into the energy and innovation that Last, but certainly not least, agree more — as the brilliant Peter is happening across the river. Photo by Rod Denis. Windsor provides incredible Drucker famously stated: “culture opportunities to acquire eats strategy for breakfast.” We must tap into the energy and innovation property at a discount. I have had the opportunity to visit a that is happening across the river. There is The Windsor market is one of the most number of Gilbert’s business incubators a great opportunity to create synergies by underappreciated in Canada and was recently and accelerators, as well as the beautiful pursuing cross border collaboration that selected by an international publication, Site Quicken Loans building, and everyone includes automotive and manufacturing Selection magazine, as one of the “Top 10 for I interacted with from his team were innovation, food, drink and sports tourism Best Locations in Canada for Investment.” incredible. I think they enjoy their jobs so and a focus on making the region a magnet of (SiteSelection.com/press/releases/170905.htm). much because they have been provided an entrepreneurial activity. I love Gilbert’s vision for Detroit and opportunity to play a role in the renaissance Recently, Windsor Essex was named a I think the impact will be even greater of this great city. Free Trade Zone to promote the region as an by including Windsor in the equation. Going forward, Gilbert identified two key international trade hub and make it easier for Especially in terms of creating a culture that areas of focus — attracting the best talent Canadian companies to expand to the U.S. and attracts young and vibrant talent who want to the region and access to large pieces of for U.S. companies to do business in Canada. to partake in creating something incredible. real estate. This provides us with a great opportunity to There is a great opportunity here and we are This brings us to our own city — Windsor. position the Downtown Windsor Business at the very early stages yet.

For more information regarding the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator, 720 Ouellette Avenue and how you can become a positive contributor to the region’s entrepreneurs, please contact Managing Director, Arthur Barbut by emailing: Arthur@downtownaccelerator.com. 24

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Toasting Tech In YQG By Yvonne Pilon

With talk of autonomous vehicles and Amazon headquarters heating up, it’s the perfect time to celebrate “Tech Week YQG.” “Tech Week YQG” is a weeklong showcase of all things techie — November 13 to 17 — that brings together tech leaders, academic institutions, and the community to build a unique experience for entrepreneurs, tech lovers, researchers and investors. The mission of “Tech Week YQG” is to promote, accelerate and celebrate our local tech community while providing unique perspectives from world-class speakers on what the future of tech holds. “Tech Week YQG” shines a big bright spotlight on the dynamic tech community in our region today. At the same time, speakers are bringing a unique vantage point, helping us peek around the corner and prepare for the disruption that is coming so that we can remain competitive in a fast changing environment. This inaugural year focuses on three key

conversations — understanding Artificial Intelligence, cultivating Tech Talent, and building a Tech Community. The week kicks off with a panel discussion of the State of Technology in YQG, followed by a Tech Show that focuses on Artificial Intelligence — anything from smart cars to smart homes — with keynote speakers from IBM, Amazon and General Motors (see page 17 of this issue for more details). Midweek shifts focus to Tech Talent with HR best practices and tools for tech companies, a resume and interview workshop, as well as a “Digital Innovation Challenge.” The “Georgie Odette Leadership Symposium” (GOLS 2017) brings participants face-to-face with executives and founders of leading tech and innovation companies including Rory Capern, the former Managing Director of Twitter Canada. Friday concludes “Tech Week YQG”

Yvonne Pilon enjoys some time with NAO robot powered by IBM Watson at the “Ontario Centres of Excellence Discovery Conference” in Toronto, May 2017. Photo courtesy of WEtech Alliance.

with the annual “Tech Awards” combined with the closing ceremonies for the “Nerd Olympics.” For complete information, visit: TechWeekYQG.com. Yvonne Pilon is the President & CEO of WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com), one of 18 Regional Innovation Centres in the Province of Ontario funded by the Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs, and Host of “Tech In The City.” She is passionate about technology, innovation and putting Windsor Essex on the map. She is also Member of YKNOT Windsor Essex (on Facebook go to “YKNOT Windsor-Essex”).

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portfolio corner

D.C. Drama By Steven Mayo

As I write, I can only hope the drama in Washington in August will continue into the fall. Throughout my career, when markets decline due to political reasons it’s been a buying opportunity. It’s remarkable how quickly the “confidence crisis” has emerged in President Donald Trump’s agenda after such a short time in office. This is what the markets don’t like: • The repeal and replace of Obamacare has not happened, • Tax reform is likely delayed, • Regulatory reform possibly delayed, • Once again, the debt ceiling debate may become an issue, • The infrastructure agenda (pro-growth) is stalling, • North Korea and Russia distractions, • Racism; what’s to debate? And as a result, his strongest corporate supporters are leaving him and his advisory boards. Not good! To start the year, the proposed tax and

regulation policies were welcomed by the markets and the enthusiasm was clearly evident. How quickly the pendulum has swung! Key people are out and the President is scrambling to get his agenda back on track. This change in confidence has partially been reflected in the U.S. dollar index, which peaked at 102 in March and declined to the 93 area in August. The U.S. dollar index is a measure of the U.S. dollar strength versus other major currencies. While the antics in Washington have been going on, the European and Asian economies have all improved in 2017 versus last year. This is good for overall world growth and U.S. multinational companies. Ironically, global growth and a weakening U.S. currency positively contributes to improved U.S. corporate earnings. Lost in all of this political mess is the good news, the stuff that truly matters to investors. Through 2017, the corporate earnings of U.S. companies have been good, dividend growth

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and buybacks continue while interest rates remain low. As we have just entered fall, plenty of attention should be given to U.S. large cap stocks. Keep perspective, politics can be a nuisance, period! The media now has something to sink its teeth into, and usually for longer than the markets care. The stage is set. My view is that any market correction will set us up nicely for a fall and New Year’s rally. It’s hard to imagine a long correction period brought about by political issues when corporate earnings are generally good and so many dollars are on the sidelines waiting to get back into the market. Any bets against the U.S. market and economy are likely short-lived, as the progrowth U.S. cash-flow machine is not solely dependent on the President. That’s good! Let’s wrap up as always with a quote: “No man will ever carry out of the Presidency the reputation which carried him into it.” ~ Thomas Jefferson Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

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The Big Flood Of 2017 By Dave Halliday

our new home is definitely in need of some TLC, but it has the room and the potential to be extraordinary. You’ve spent the past while planning out the renovations and you have a pretty clear vision of what you are shooting for. The updates in the main living areas such as the kitchen, washrooms, living room and bedrooms are the priorities at this time as the basement is currently more of a work area. It is partially finished on the one side and you have even set up your dart board, a television, and a small bar fridge. It’s the area of the house you escape to when you have a little free time! Unfortunately, you don’t really have a lot of free time but you take what you can get. On this particular afternoon you are out of work early and the thought of a cold one in the basement with the ball game on seems pretty good. It will be a few hours before anyone else gets home so you settle back for the game in peace and quiet. Outside, it is not as peaceful! The rain pounding on the ground and the roof gets so loud you are forced to turn the volume up on the television. The intensity of the rain seems to be growing stronger and eventually the dense storm clouds block your satellite signal scrambling the game images. You peek out the basement window watching the rain come down in sheets when you hear a strange gurgling sound. Before you can start in the direction of the noise the water starts pooling at your feet. It’s coming in from the floor drain and the toilet. Within minutes the water is over two feet deep and you are standing on the basement stairs in disbelief. With the help of neighbours you were able to get most of your possessions out before they became damaged. Within a few days the neighbourhood looks like a disaster zone with damaged goods piled up. You’ve cleaned up the mess in your basement and are now focused on making sure this never happens again.

Major household items (and business too) were damaged due to the flood and garbage lined many streets in Windsor in early September. Photo by Della Jones-Goulet.

We at Biz X spoke to Richard Myers, Master Plumber at Northstar Plumbing (NorthstarPlumbing.ca) located at 6010 North Service Road East, Windsor, to determine what can be done to avoid this problem. Northstar Plumbing has been serving the residents of Windsor and Essex County for the past 30 years and Myers has 19 years of professional experience to draw upon. The torrential rain event recently experienced in our area left many residents feeling helpless against such forces. Is there just no way to avoid this potential destruction? “The weather threats related to plumbing in this area are storm water related flooding, ice, snow, and freezing water damage,” indicates Myers. “With the proper protection systems in place, most flooding is avoidable.” Is maintenance of our current waste water system essential to hopefully minimize the possibility of flooding within our homes? Myers suggests a regular maintenance and inspection program can “absolutely,” assist in preventing basement flooding and notes, “Being proactive and maintaining your existing equipment can provide great assurance. We can assure the proper equipment is in place and working as it should, during a trouble shooting plumbing inspection.” Many of the homes that recently flooded

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have never taken on water. Some blame climate change for this flooding, any thoughts? “Many cities are simply overdeveloped creating an overwhelmed sewer system” states Myers. “Climate change may or may not have anything to do with our recent flooding.” Regardless of the cause, what fundamental things can we do to avoid getting storm water in our basements? “First take advantage of the city funded flood protection programs,” lists Myers and adds, “Install a backwater valve, sump pump and overflow protection systems.” What preventative maintenance should a typical home owner carry out to do their part to ensure the reliable function of their plumbing systems? “Test all systems quarterly just as you would your furnace,” says Myers. “Make a list of all mechanical systems in your home and do them at the same time.” I am sure that with the help of dedicated professionals such as yourself local residents are going to do the best they can to protect their property from future flooding. In your opinion, are there also upgrades required within the infrastructure of our local municipalities as it relates to storm water management? “Yes, when new homes and retail space are developed they are added to the existing sewer system,” states Myers. “This can result in massive amounts of rain water overwhelming the system.” He elaborates, “Areas that were once green space and drained naturally are turning into rooftops and parking lots. Windsor is 125 years old and the infrastructure was not designed for today’s demands. They are upgrading as fast as they can, but it’s never enough.” So to all of the local residents that experienced damage and loss during the recent round of flooding, we at Biz X offer our genuine wish that this will be the last time that you experience such an event. Stay dry folks!

Finding Success On Social Media

Social media is a social platform designed to connect and inform people. It’s used to keep in touch with family and friends, share experiences and stay up-to-date on current affairs. Users don’t log on to it just because it’s a powerful medium for advertising, although it is quite effective if you take the right approach. Avoid hard sales pitches or flooding the newsfeeds with obvious promotions. Post content that offers value to your followers, without including the typical call-to-action. You can sell yourself and your business without ever mentioning your product or services, simply by sharing informative articles, tips and advice that will benefit potential customers. If you make your Facebook or Twitter account the go-to source for learning more about your industry, followers who are already counting on you for free advice will be easy to convert into loyal, paying customers.

Share & Share A “Like”

Always make sure you’re giving what you get on social media. If another business likes or shares your post, try to return the favour. You should never do it if you don’t agree with their post or brand, but if it’s something that complements your purpose, you should always react with enthusiasm. Sharing their post is the most effective, but if you’re fussy about what you share, liking it will have virtually the same impact. Every business and struggling entrepreneur is striving to gain more exposure on social media. Liking someone else’s post puts it back into the newsfeed, so it can be seen by more people. It only takes a second to do and it could directly influence future sales. If you’re willing to help others increase their social media footprint, they will be more likely to do the same for you. These short business tips are brought to you by Jenn Sadai, a Windsor author who uses her talents and experiences to empower women. She can be reached through the various social media links on her website: JennSadai.com.

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By Jenn Sadai

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESSWOMEN By Rebecca Wright

SHERYL DAVIES

Happy Is The Publisher That The Sun Shines On

eddings can be overwhelming, but a little guidance can go a long way in ensuring your special day (and a sunny one means good luck for a couple) — and the weeks and months of planning leading up to it — are as stress-free as possible! Sheryl R. Davies, Publisher and Owner of The Wedding Guide Windsor/Essex County (TheWeddingGuide.ca), aims to do just that. Since Biz X is celebrating “Small Business Month” in this October issue, it was fitting to highlight her publication and how it’s helping boost other local small businesses (just as Biz X does!) . . . and of course brides-to-be in a big way! Davies — who is also President of DMS Communications, a business solutions company in Windsor — describes The Wedding Guide as offering engaged couples expert advice and quality vendors to keep them organized. “Our job is to provide the answers to the questions that are asked every time a wedding is hosted,” explains Davies. “We provide the most up-to-date, emerging trends and ideas.” On the planning side, The Wedding Guide offer timetables, checklists, planning tools and an interactive budget calculator, coupled with editorial about each service that couples need to secure. In 1989, Davies founded The Toronto Wedding Guide, which was purchased from a U.S. franchise. “I had incredible success breaking sales records while achieving the most profitable first issue in the history of the franchise,” Davies claims. In 1992, with her husband John and son Jonathon, she relocated to Windsor “for a better quality of life, business opportunities,

Prior to publishing The Wedding Guide, Davies spent 22 years working in the china, crystal and giftware industry in Toronto, employed by prestigious companies such as Royal Doulton, Rosenthal, Royal Worcester Spode and Orrefors Crystal. Due to this industry being based on a lifestyle commodity, brides and bridal registries were always a large part of the mix. Photo courtesy of Chalet Studio Photography.

and family.” She then had the unique opportunity of restarting the same business model in her hometown and founded The Wedding Guide Windsor/Essex County. “I am committed to everything weddings, to source the best in the industry, while helping brides stay organized and on-task, while making the best choices,” stresses Davies. As wedding experts, and according to Davies, the area’s premier wedding resource and planner, her team targets a local, niche market. “We are unique in that we have two customers: the bride and the wedding vendors,” she mentions, noting that they cater equally to both with quality, excellent customer service and expertise.“At The Wedding Guide we have high standards and specific criteria that we require of our vendors before we refer them to brides and grooms.” In addition, the publication provides inspiration, ideas, money-saving offers, solid planning and emerging trends to the couples.

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“We capture the essence of what every couple wants — gorgeous images, informative advice and inspiring ideas,” she comments. “We’re fun, appealing, hip and friendly to Windsor and Essex County’s next generation of brides.” As a member of an esteemed collaboration of wedding specialists based in the United States, and the only Canadian, Davies and her team are privy to and able to bring the newest and latest in the industry to the Windsor/Essex bride. As well, Davies adds, “Trends that once took time to get here can be delivered in real time.” As an entrepreneur with a business that runs on deadlines, details and print schedules, it is not just a job — it is an exciting and allencompassing lifestyle, she believes. “Each day has goals and presents challenges that make me better at my chosen profession,” she says, adding that being a female business owner has its advantages. “Women have the ability to juggle, multi-task, mother and ROAR.” Weddings are a huge undertaking and most brides have never hosted a party for sometimes more than 125 of their closest family and friends, so it’s important to seek out professional guidance to make sure all goes well. “We provide a road map of chronological steps to make that weddings happen in the proper order, ensuring that nothing is overlooked or forgotten,” she explains. “We endeavour to keep the bride on budget while enjoying her engagement, which should be the happiest time of her life, and we seek out excellence and work with people that we’d want to do business. We always put our ‘feet’ into the bride’s shoes.”

XX FILES

MAKING A SOUND LIVING

The “Captain” Of Rock: Mark Farner By Lori Baldassi

Sixty nine year old Mark Farner is a singer, songwriter and legendary rock guitarist from Flint, Michigan. His voice is immediately recognised as the signature sound of Grand Funk Railroad. Catch up with him at: MarkFarner.com. Photo courtesy of the artist.

ark Farner, formally of Grand Funk Railroad, can tell you what it’s like to have your face on a billboard in New York’s famous Times Square. He can tell you about writing hits and selling out stadiums — tour life. Notably, he wrote the rock anthem to end all rock anthems in “We’re An American Band.” Not bad for a kid from Flint, Michigan whose mom had to sign his first record deal because he was only a breath over 20. Sounds great doesn’t it? Are you ready to form a band yet? Hold that thought. Farner can also tell you about hitting the Billboard music charts repeatedly with hits, selling out tours across the globe and only receiving a cheque of $350 a week. He can tell you all about being sued by his Manager for $57 million and losing; or finding out that he, nor any of the band members of Grand Funk at the height of fame, didn’t own the publishing rights of their mega hits. If that doesn’t scare you into business school then Mark can tell you about how the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) came after the band when all the litigation was done. Did I mention the Sheriff at Madison Square Garden attempting to confiscate the equipment hours before a benefit show? Forty eight years later Farner will also be the first to tell you that his love of creating music, performing and his faith have kept him in the game. Here is my interview with him — so pull up a chair and prepare to soak it all in. BIZ X: What was your first sign that something wasn’t right with your Manager? Mark Farner (MF): I had a conversation about my concerns regarding Terry Knight (first Manager of Grand Funk Railroad) with Don Brewer (drummer, Grand Funk). Don said, “you know he’s out of Flint, Michigan, he’s in New York City and he can make things happen for us.” This was back in ‘69, we were making

$350 a week and playing a ton of festivals. We had hits on the radio and so I didn’t question it further. Knight had connections, he had that going for us, but he was unscrupulous. BIZ X: Is the music business still the same hustle only with new equipment? MF: Yes pretty much, but there are more people with devious intentions. Record companies like to sign new artists to these 360 deals. (En.Wikipedia.org/wiki/360_deal) Those deals can tie up artists from moving forward and if their management is not solidly in the game, it can stall their career right there for years. Those kinds of people are more and more. BIZ X: “I’m Your Captain” is a banner anthem for all of Rock ’n’ Roll. Do the lyrics still resonate with you? MF: Every time I think of “I’m Your Captain” I go back to the prayer that I pray each night. That song’s lyrics came to me about 3:30 in the morning. I didn’t realize it was a song and I did pray for a song that would reach and touch the hearts of people. The following morning I was looking out at the horses on my farm and strumming on my guitar when I hit these chords

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and thought, oh wait that’s cool. Then I hit this portion of a C chord inversion I had never used. It really sounded good to me. I thought, man, I got to remember this! I started thinking about the words I had written before and thought, well maybe this is a song, and it all just fell right in. I played it for the guys the same night at rehearsal and they all said “Farner that’s a hit!” I told them I prayed for it. You see God don’t mess around. BIZ X: Did you care about trends in music then? MF: I never tried to pigeonhole my songs or my writing style for a trend. I think if we stay true to who we really are we can get much more expression out of writing and creating a song. BIZ X: Do you care about trends in music now? MF: Musical trends now? I do not. Let me put it to you this way. On the Titanic’s main deck they were having their champagne and were in tuxedos and music with strings was playing, all having a very good time. Down below deck they were having a Hoedown. That’s where the real music was. They were dancing and having a great time. The lower deck music is where I’m aiming.

BIZ X: What do you think about the music you’re hearing on the radio today? MF: It’s so controlled. When the FCC (Federal Communications Commission, which regulates broadcasting in the United States) deregulated the rules of ownership in 1995, under the Clinton administration, they allowed huge corporate conglomerates to buy out the smaller family owned stations. Prior to deregulation, ownership of radio stations were kept in the hands of families who had a moral conscious over what their children saw and heard. Because of this, the musicians of today will not have the same chance as I had. They are not going to get a fair crack at radio play. Musicians today have to find an indie label or internet stream, somehow, to be heard. We are so starving for content in radio now that it’s not worth listening to. I will not turn on the radio in my car, period. BIZ X: Audiences then and audiences now? MF: It’s a different audience and the fact that a lot of young people are coming to my shows is a testimony to me for what the content of the music was when I wrote it in ‘69-‘70. It still resonates today. I kept writing about issues, try to provoke people to think about what the hell is going on in the world. I figured it was my platform and my obligation to my fellow man that if I saw something I better put it in a song and make it the best I can. BIZ X: You weathered a tsunami of legal problems from management lawsuits and then the IRS. What did you do to get through it all? MF: One time during litigation the Lawyers and a Sheriff showed up hours before a sold out benefit show in New York City’s Madison Square Garden and attempted to confiscate our equipment. We got them to at least wait until after the show. The money raised that night opened seven Phoenix rehab houses. I’m not bragging, but I have always been compelled to give back. When I have given back I am so satisfied. I think giving back is probably akin to our true nature, it raises our frequency some. The album “Phoenix” was the first thing we released after Terry Knight’s lawsuit. After all the lawsuits, we didn’t know what we were going to do because of the all the legal ramifications

that could arise and we wanted to avoid court at all cost. The album was our statement to the world that even though we had been beat down we were still going to rise. BIZ X: What is the best lesson you’ve learned in this business? MF: My perception of the business has changed since I had my pacemaker put in. I would say don’t let yourself be indebted to anyone, not just financially, but any other way. Staying in the strength of that power of beholding, we limit ourselves. If we let love have us and have its way with us — we might change this damn world. BIZ X: Are you a content musician with all you’ve been through and all it’s brought you? MF: Yes very much. I mean if die tomorrow I have lived and continue to live a grateful life. Not for the things that I have but the experiences I have had. BIZ X: How do you feel about bands taking a political stand? Is it bad for business? MF: There is a time and place and the stage is definitely not it. People come to see a show. They are looking to get away from that. They really don’t want to hear your political views. Most people are looking to chill out and have a good time and forget anything else. BIZ X: If you had a chance for a do-over, business or music-wise, what would it be? MF: I would reconsider when drummer Don Brewer came to me and said, “I’ve never received 100% writing credit on anything, do you mind if I take it on ‘We’re an American Band’?” He wrote the lyrics, I wrote the music. No, I said, go ahead. I felt good about giving it to him, he felt like it was a feather in his cap for taking it from me. That’s ok, it just validates there are people out there like that who take advantage, but I would never do that again. Claim what is yours and never give it away no matter how good it makes your heart feel because that has come back to bite me. BIZ X: If you had a choice who would you collaborate with? MF: John Oates from Hall and Oates. I like some of his phrasing, particularly his soulful stuff. BIZ X: Who gave you the best business tip? MF: My first band “The Pack” prior to Grand

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Funk was doing a car show for General Motors at Cobo Hall and a comedian was on before us. Boy he had the crowd in his hands and looked good up there in his suit and tie. He came off the stage and came over to us and singled me out and said “you look good in those suits.” (They were Beatles’ suits). He looks down at my shoes and said “son you have to be attentive to your shoes” cause mine were real beaters. I looked at his and they were shiny patent leather. I said thank you, thank you, and thank you. From that day on you’ll always find nice kicks on me. BIZ X: What was your first guitar? MF: My first electric guitar was a Harmony guitar and amplifier, purchased from a catalogue, which I handed down to my brother Ricky who I showed how to play when he was nine. I used a Stratocaster until the rock doctor, Dr. Paul McComb in Nashville ended my use of it. After my surgery with him where they had to fuse two of my vertebra he said “No more Stratocasters or Gibson(s) or Valero” as their weight of 15 lbs. was too much. I thought, wow what am I going to do? I had used Parker Guitars years ago so I called them up and they sent a guitar and I love it. Today I use a Parker Fly. It’s incredibly light, once I got my hand adjusted to it. I felt it made me a better player. It’s a bit of a stretch for most guitar players because it’s a wider radius, but that gives me a little more room to add a vibrato, which I like for a personal touch. BIZ X: What advice would you give to up and coming artists? MF: Stay with it, no matter what obstacle comes along. No matter what friend or family member tries to dissuade you. If you really want this life/career you’re going to have to sell out to it and protect it like it’s your kid. Really nurture it; no one else is going to do that but you. Watch out for the bad guys and protect your path. From backstage to the airwaves or leading the organizing committee Lori Baldassi has been in and around the music industry for over 20 years. Lori has sat on a number of boards of directors and focused on charity/non-profit committees for concerts/ festivals bringing in name acts. She has also spoken in front of the CRTC. If you have any questions for her please email: editorial@bizxmagazine.com.

2 0 T H A N N IV E R S AR Y CE LE BR AT ION

& SILENT AUCTION

Thursday, November 16, 2017 Ciociaro Club of Windsor, 3745 N Talbot Rd Welcome Reception at 5:30 | Dinner served at 6:15 Tickets $85 each or $765 for a Table of 10 Gourmet Anniversary Dinner includes wine pairings from Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery

To be a sponsor, purchase ad space in the program, donate a silent auction item or purchase tickets please call

519-252-1171 Ext. 3236

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Proceeds to benefit programs supported through

GUEST COLUMN

An Expert’s View On The Inefficiencies Of The Litigation Process: Why The Tortoise Does Not Move Like The Hare? By Andrea Pontoni

’m sitting here in my office thinking about the number of expert reports that I’m in the process of preparing or have completed and waiting to testify. I’ve come to the conclusion that being an expert can be a challenging and rewarding profession, however, at times a frustrating one. At the start of this article, you have to understand that civil litigation is a business and like any other business, the development of relationships and generation of revenue are key to its success. These success factors may at times differ from the client’s (“you”) success factors. Don’t get me wrong, the many lawyers I have dealt with over my career are genuinely interested in the success of their clients, however, how some get there could be more effective, at least when dealing with rule 53.03 of Civil Procedure the “Expert Evidence.” What is an expert witness? “A witness in a legal proceeding or an arbitration proceeding, who by virtue of his/ her experience, training, skill and knowledge of a particular field or subject is recognized as being especially qualified to render an informed, unbiased and independent opinion on matters to that field or subject. The primary function of the expert witness is to provide legal counsel, judge and jury with additional knowledge of a technical nature which may be outside of their circle of knowledge in order to assist them in the decision making process.” So you might be asking what your point is? Too often I’m called into a file at the final hour and expected to prepare a quality expert report in a very short time period. Now, you might be saying deadlines are part of life. I would agree, however, when the litigation process started several years earlier from the time the expert was contacted, you have to ask yourself why? The typical excuse given to me during my career is that we wanted to use the external corporate accountant. The same corporate accountant who is intimately involved with both the management and the shareholders. The lawyer fully understands, when strategizing the litigation approach, that the external corporate accountant won’t be the expert at trial for the following reasons: • The external corporate accountant is

not independent in fact and appearance. The external corporate accountant typically has a long history with the company, management and shareholder group and has an economic interest in lucrative annual recurring accounting and consulting fees. An independent expert is impartial and his/ her only economic interest in the company is his/her contract with the company for the litigation matter. All fees owed to the expert are paid prior to attending trial. The independent expert does not worry about losing future fees or damaging a longstanding relationship. • The external corporate accountant, while competent in financial reporting, tax returns and tax planning, may not possess the required accreditations, training and experience to qualify as an expert in court. In particular, on business valuation, damage quantification and forensic accounting matters. • Prior to attending trial in accordance with sub rule 53.03(1) or (2) of the rules of civil procedure, the expert has to sign an acknowledgement form to the courts as follows: I acknowledge that in relation to this proceeding, it is my duty to provide: (a) opinion evidence that is fair, objective and non-partisan; (b) opinion evidence that is related only to matters that are within my area of expertise; and (c) such additional assistance as the court may reasonably require, to determine a matter in issue. I acknowledge that the duty referred to above prevails over any obligation, which I may owe to any party by whom or on whose behalf I am engaged. It doesn’t take much to surmise that the external corporate accountant, or any other professional without the required knowledge, technical training, experience and independence, would have difficulty signing. So why does all of the above matter to the client? Well, from start to finish the litigation process in itself is a lengthy process. If the appropriate expert is not engaged from the start of the litigation process, you may be arguing over issues and amounts which may differ from the ones included in the actual expert’s report, causing inefficiencies. Think about it, you spent several years B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

where both the external corporate accountant and legal counsel have argued issues and amounts, which may not be relevant. It’s been my experience that the external corporate accountant and legal counsel don’t work for free. By the time the client actually engages the expert who will be providing testimony at trial, they are ‘fee shocked’ as costs and resources incurred have been ineffective. The inability of being able to rely on the corporate external accountant or any other professional due to independence, credibility and technical competencies issues, whether in fact or appearance, has cost you, the client. With the introduction of an independent and credible expert right from the start, the expert has the opportunity to educate the client, legal counsel, opposing parties and judicial bodies, which may lead to an early resolution at mediation hearings, case conferences, pre-trial, settlement discussions and other proceedings. So, if you are in the process of a litigation matter, contemplating filing a claim, there is risk of a matter being in dispute or ending up in court consider the above. As with any purchase of goods or services “let the buyer beware.” Andrea Pontoni holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree, is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), Chartered Business Valuator (CBV) with the Canadian Institute of Chartered Business Valuators, Accredited Senior Appraiser (ASA) in business valuations with the American Society of Appraisers and Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) with CPA Canada and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Andrea has also completed the three part Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada’s in-depth tax specialty program. Andrea has over 27 years of experience with 17 of those years at two National Firms where he held senior positions including that of a partner. His practice includes providing advice on business valuation, economic loss quantifications, financial investigations, accounting, personal and corporate taxation, financial forecasts, business planning and corporate finance matters to clients varying in size and industry. He can be reached at 519-8906288 or by email at: apontonicacbv@cogeco.ca. For more information on his background visit www.pontonibusinessadvisor.com.

THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOR THOUGHT A

new downtown destination, On A Roll Sushi & Sliders (opened April 28, 2017) is making noise in the core with great rock & roll music and exotic fare, including your favourite kinds of sushi and sliders stacked high. According to Lucky Stratis, a mentor overseeing the club and restaurant, “The staff at On A Roll work as a team and naturally complement each other in the operation of this new and exciting place — truly a team effort.” Two killer lamb sliders, Magic Bus and Foxy Lady with L.A. Woman, and a beef slider, are stacked high for an amazing $10 bill for the delicious trio!

At the helm, the Co-Owner is Lucky’s son, George Stratis (Sushi Chef) who exercises his creativity in the kitchen and up front, building the very special sushi they are now known for. Co-Owner Ben Simpson is the resident Mixologist “extraordinaire” at the club. Both can be seen working on their craft at the bar, preparing sushi and mixing cocktails. The theme at the restaurant is “Let The Good Times Roll,” according to Lucky. This is ground zero for a good party and great eats if you’re in the neighbourhood. The atmosphere and decor is trendy, rustic and retro. Additionally, “At the club, the staff know most of the clients by name,” says George. However, more than just the regular clientele in the immediate area visit the restaurant. An interesting menu to please all, the Specialty Rolls (sushi) at the restaurant are named after classic rock tunes.

On A Roll Sushi & Sliders 63 Pitt Street East, Windsor Photos courtesy of Ben Simpson

By David Clark

The most popular fare includes Tiny Dancer, a shrimp and crab marriage with avocado and heavily topped with salmon and seriously baked. Another shrimp selection, Lola, starts with shrimp tempura, cucumber, a zesty dose of cream cheese and topped with sweet potato and avocado. A seafood delight, Rocket Man (Rainbow) begins with crab and topped with tuna, salmon, red snapper and avocado. Other sushi fare includes the three piece Sashimi with your choice of shrimp, tuna, salmon and more. Nigiri also has many selections including shrimp, white tuna and crab. Specialty Rolls include Barracuda (tuna, salmon, cucumber, avocado) and Crazy Train (shrimp tempura, eel, cucumber, avocado) and plenty more. And, if you are looking for a little snack, choose a small roll such as the Hotel California with shrimp tempura and salmon. A lighter appetizer offering includes the regular egg roll and one of the vegetarian choices is the veggie tempura, a medley of “good for you” ingredients. Aesthetically pleasing and loaded with shrimp, crab, avocado and salmon, the Tiny Dancer specialty roll is certain to move you at $11.

Sliders at On A Roll are over the top with lots of great ingredients and loaded high. A special at the club lets diners try three of these tasty sliders for only $10. “You can mix and match Sliders including lamb, chicken and beef

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Ready for a special night out with a date or with friends? Try the Assorted Platter with many sushi favourites all on one giant plate.

selections — the choice is yours,” Simpson mentions. On the menu, the Magic Bus and Foxy Lady Sliders are heavy on the lamb, veggies, cheese and zesty sauce while the Sweet Emotion and Night Moves deliver the chicken with a host of ingredients. Beef selections are Slow Ride and L.A. Woman. All sliders are topped with at least six ingredients. Also, another special item, the Bunless Burger Board ($10) gives you any three sliders wrapped in lettuce rather than a bun — a healthy choice! The Taster at $10 includes an egg roll, slider and a small roll as well. Regarding entertainment, some of the best local musicians around rock the house on Friday and Saturday. Also, classic rock is always in the background when the band isn’t playing, so grab a cold one and dig into your favourite sushi and sliders! “A new part of the fusion taking place at On A Roll is on its way too,” says George. “Soon we will begin catering with a specially equipped custom-made truck that will visit your special events on site.” For more information about all of these activities at On A Roll, keep up-to-date regarding hours/menu items and check out the latest happenings and entertainment schedule on: Facebook.com/OnaRollSushi.

EVENT PROFILE

Windsor - Roseland Rotary’s 22nd “Wines Of The World” Friday, October 20, 2017 By Richard Rosenthal

Windsor’s annual premiere wine and culinary event, on October 20, is not to be missed if you like wine and great food from gourmet restaurants. Once again it is held downtown Windsor at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, overlooking our beautiful waterfront, from 6 to 10 p.m. You can sample international and local wine and food from a number of eateries. And new for this year you can also try craft beer and spirits! Participating restaurants offering their delicacies (known at the time of writing) include Capri Pizzeria, Coffee & Cream, Eastern Flavours, Etta’s Greeklish Eatery, Klueless Cupcakes, Koolini’s, Piccolo’s Pizza and Pasta House, Red Sail Restaurant, River’s Edge Tap & Table, St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, and The Cheese Bar. Plus there’s always a lot of excitement taking place with a silent auction, lottery tree, wine barrel draw, surprise jewellery event, and music with Pat Pagano and Nino Palazzolo!

During last year’s event, Rotarians, shown from left: Sue Zanin, Joyce Jones, Ray Baker and Greg Riccardi, were armed with plenty of tickets to sell for the barrel of wine raffle. Photo courtesy of John Jones.

Proceeds from the event support a number of local and international projects, including Rotary’s efforts to eradicate polio, literacy programs (local and international), peace projects, scholarships, hats for newborns, immigrant support, water wells in Asia, South America and Africa, etc. Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders and problemsolvers who come together to make positive, lasting changes in communities at home and abroad. Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision.

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For more than 110 years Rotary members have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, they are always working to better our world, and they stay committed to the end. Rotary’s motto is “Service Above Self.” The guiding principles have been the foundation of their values: service, fellowship, diversity, integrity, and leadership. Rotary members believe that they have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. The 35,000+ clubs work together to: promote peace; fight disease; provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; save mothers and children; support education and grow local economies. “Wines of the World” is our community’s opportunity to join Rotary in its continuing efforts to make the world a better place for all. Tables of 10 are available for $700 or individual tickets are $75 and include the wine (craft beer and spirits) and food. Details are on: RoselandRotary.com.

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Culinary Gala Recognizes The Best Of The Best Story And Photo By Joe McParland

uring the past 30 to 40 years, the Windsor hospitality and culinary industry has been assisted by two large organizations, the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) and the Canadian Culinary Federation (CCF). Each year the local Windsor regional chapters of these organizations gather to celebrate the excellence of their employees’ work. For the first time ever, they come together on Monday, October 23, 2017 for the “Culinary Guild of Windsor/ORHMA Gala Evening of Excellence.” The event is held at the Essex Golf & Country Club. The CCF started in 1963 and incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1972 “to unite chefs and cooks across Canada in a common dedication to professional excellence.” Locally, The Culinary Guild of Windsor is headed by President, Chef Adelina Sisti-DeBlasis (the first woman President of the Guild). The CCF is open to all

Canadian Cook Apprentices, Journeyman Cooks, Professional Chef/Cooks or Culinary Professionals. They provide various programs to allow workers in the culinary industry to achieve professional certification, and provide them with industry updates, essential networking opportunities and ongoing education (See: Ccfcc.ca). ORHMA represents over 4,000 members and 11,000 establishments across Ontario in six regions: London, Waterloo, Simcoe County, Windsor, Toronto and Ottawa. According to their website: ORHMA.com, it is dedicated to fostering a positive business climate for Ontario’s hospitality industry, while providing value-added services to its members. They also provide advocacy and lobbying for their members on industry related matters to all levels of government. The current version of ORHMA was established July 1, 1999 with a series of previous mergers of similar associations dating back to 1928.

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Frank Moceri, Industry Liaison Officer at St. Clair College, is the President of the Windsor Chapter of ORHMA with responsibility for hospitality industry members in Windsor, Essex and ChathamKent Counties. This regional chapter has been around for more than 60 years. Moceri stresses the importance of this awards event since “it provides the public the opportunity to recognize the hospitality industry — the hotels, motels, restaurants and suppliers — for their professionalism and diligence.” During the “Culinary Guild of Windsor/ ORHMA Gala Evening of Excellence,” guests are presented with a five course meal with Pelee Island Winery pairing their wines with each course. Hors d’oeuvres are served by students in the Culinary Program at St. Clair College. Since this is an article about food, we simply must give you all the mouthwatering details! Apps are followed by: Brown Sugar

and Dill Crusted Salmon served with Celery Root and Yukon Gold Potato Puree and Champagne Mustard Cream; Living Greens, Roast Corn, Edamame Beans and King Crab with a Honey Lemon Vinaigrette; and Sous Vide Tenderloin of Beef, accompanied by Braised Veal Cheek, Dauphine Potatoes, Broccolini, Star Anise Flavoured Carrots and Pinot Noir Enhanced Meat Glaze. The dinner concludes with dessert featuring Apple Panna Cotta, Hass Bar, Maple Walnut Ice Cream with Salted Carmel Sauce. Have we made you hungry yet? During the cocktail hour preceding the dinner, ORHMA presents their awards to the winning businesses nominated in the following categories . . . -“Restaurant of the Year 2017”: O’Maggio’s Kildare House; The Willistead; Caboto Club; Vito’s Pizzeria; Penalty Box. -“New Restaurant of the Year 2017”: Walkerville Eatery, F&B Walkerville; Mazaj Mediterranean Grill; Carrots N’ Dates (Tecumseh location); Wineology (Tecumseh location) -“Windsor Accommodations Facility of the Year 2017”: Stonecroft Inn; Caesars Windsor; Best Western Plus (downtown Windsor) -“Essex/Kent Accommodations of the Year 2017”: Quality Inn Leamington; Days Inn Leamington; Comfort Inn Chatham

From left: Frank Moceri, President of Windsor Chapter of ORHMA; Chef Adelina Sisti-DeBlasis, President of the CCF Culinary Guild of Windsor; Dick Bederaux, Past President of Windsor Chapter of ORHMA; Chef Alex Migneault, Vice President of the CCF Culinary Guild of Windsor and Charlie Kobryn, member of the Board of Directors of Windsor Chapter of ORHMA.

- ORMHA Windsor Region “Supplier of the Year 2017” Award Winner: Colonial Coffee Co. Limited -“BBN (Best Bar None) Accredited Venue 2017” Award Winner: ARIIUS Nightclub & Ultralounge (inside Caesars Windsor) The winners in these categories are determined through on-line voting by the public. To vote for your favourite 2017 ORHMA establishment, (deadline is October 19), go to this link: SurveyMonkey.com/r/ WindsorPeoplesChoiceAwards. During the evening, two awards of distinction are presented as well. First, the “Central Region Chef of the Year

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Award 2017” goes to Chef Helmut Markert. Born in Germany, Markert is a Hall of Fame of Canadian Chefs inductee and has had extensive international culinary training and experience. He is currently Corporate Chef for Armando’s. Secondly, the “Lifetime Achievement Award 2017” will be presented to retired Chef Emilio Salamone, CCC (Certified Chef Cuisine). He is a 2016 Inductee into the CCF Honour Society which honoured his lifetime commitment and contributions. Salamone has worked in a number of establishment in the Windsor area and is best remembered for his years as the Executive Chef at TBQ’s The Other Place. He also worked alongside the internationally acclaimed and legendary Chef Hans Bueschkens, CCC, at Windsor Raceway. Chef Sisti-DeBlasis believes “there has always been a reason to come to Windsor and enjoy the fine fares of our culinary arts. We are a community so rich in diversity and deep in chef talent. We can boast a long and storied history of top tier eating establishments and Chefs.” She also sees that more and more Windsor Essex residents are dining out — eating locally — recognizing the wealth of the culinary delights in our midst. And that’s always a good thing for business! Bon Appétit everyone!

EVENT PROFILE

The 4th Annual “Artilicious” November 29, 2017 By Erika Muscat

Save the date for Wednesday, November 29, where you’ll have the chance to ignite your senses to epic proportions — the 4th Annual “Artilicious” — presented by Caesars Windsor and benefitting The Kidney Foundation of Canada, is back. From 5 to 8 p.m. on this date inside Caesars Windsor in the Augustus Ballroom, prepare to be wowed! Let’s start with taste. Over 20 local eateries generously donate their food to serve to guests. You will likely be full after sampling from just a few; however, you have the opportunity to try every single one, while quantities last.

Constable Brett Severin (left) and Staff Sergeant Mike Tedesco serve up a scrumptious salad during the 2016 “Artilicious” event at Caesars Windsor.

Next comes sight, otherwise known as the “Art” in “Artilicious.” Local, handmade, quality works of art and fine craft are available for purchase and what better a time for this, than just

before the holidays. Check off those hard to buy for and extra special people in your life by buying them something unique and thoughtful. Sound. Not sure where to start? Well AM800 CKLW’s very own Kara Ro, will be emceeing loud and clear so you know exactly what is going on at this event. Smell. Oh the smells! From offerings such as Seafood Chowder to Meat Lasagna to Butter Chicken on last year’s line-up, the variety is endless. McCafe is also providing their coffee free of charge. Touch. Need a night out? Haven’t seen a particular friend in a while? “Artilicious” is the perfect opportunity to gather and give that long-lost person a great big hug and spend an evening, all while supporting local. Fun. Okay, we know this isn’t one of the senses, but where else can you crack open a noodle and have a table of 10 explode with excitement because you are a winner? That’s right, the popular noodle raffle returns too. For only $1 each or 6 for $5, you have pretty good odds at winning a prize such as a $25 to $50 gift certificate to a restaurant and more! Now that you want to come to this event, here is how you get tickets. Visit one of the following locations in person: Nancy Johns Gallery & Framing (4755 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor) and Windermere Art Gallery

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Maggie Owen (left) and Mary Porter of Porter Choice Pics smile proudly in front of the gorgeous photographs for sale at their booth during the event last year. Photos courtesy of Eyes on Windsor.

(2120 Windermere Road, Windsor). Tickets are $25 and available until November 25 or for $30 at the door. You can also purchase tickets online and find the answer to any questions you may have on this event at: Kidney.ca/WindsorEssex. All proceeds raised from “Artilicious” are contributed to The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter, a non-profit organization committed to kidney health and improved lives for people living with kidney disease. “Artilicious” is proudly supported by AM800 CKLW, Biz X magazine, Caesars Windsor, CTV, Eyes on Windsor, Infiniti of Windsor, Riverview Steel and Windsor Police Services.

TAKE THE LEAD

Talking Politics By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

et’s start off this new column with words of advice to local women from Tracey Bailey, Councillor Ward 4, Town of Lakeshore: “Run in flip-flops, run in sneakers, run in high heels — just RUN!” What motivates someone to run for political office? Are males and females motivated by different goals? Are they looking to serve their community, to enhance their networking or business opportunities? Are they trying to supplement their income or strengthen their “portfolios” and status in the community? The goal for the women attending a University of Windsor “Women in Politics” conference in September seemed to be about “providing a female voice” and “improving our community.” Why was there such an overwhelming consensus about the need to increase the female opportunities for female perspective? In the study, “Worst Cities to Live in,” researcher Kate McInturff (Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives) found that women in Windsor have the lowest employment, the highest poverty rates, and have less university degrees than the national average. Another indicator for best/worst places to live is — “How many women hold leadership positions in business and politics?” Nationally women have only 28% representation and in Windsor it is even lower at 25%. The fact that the win rate for an incumbent is 92% (with 75% being males) makes the road to equal representation even more challenging. The panel of politicians further explored some of the barriers facing women and preventing them from running for office. Issues were discussed such as poverty levels of women, single parent responsibilities, lack of day care and pressure of balancing family with career and/or political aspirations. Joyce Zuk, former City of Windsor Councillor, challenged a common perception about politics being a lifelong career, when she asked, “Why can’t you just serve your community for one term, this may encourage women to get involved?”

Sherry Bondy, the only female Councillor in Ward 4 for the Town of Essex, believes that once you are elected “you are always in campaign mode, the minute you are elected you are thinking strategy for re-election.” She shared advice and strategies targeted to optimize votes and helped her get acclaimed her second term. Many insights from University of Windsor professors and engaging, positive contributions from attendees contributed to the exploration of candidacy. How do you know when it’s time to run? Shannon Porcellini, former Catholic School Board Trustee was empowered to run when she was encouraged by her family to “stop complaining and do something about it.” When you start to realize you are one of the smartest people in the room and you believe you can contribute and improve things, it’s time to step up and put your stiletto or your best flip-flop forward. “Female strengths” such as multitasking, diplomacy, collaboration and the ability to hold your temper, your tongue or your tweet, will serve the position well. The differences between political candidates have been a topic of discussion lately. When women are empowered with mentors, supports and the confidence to lead, they will then try to surround themselves with people even smarter who have skills sets that will balance their own. Women are collaborative, open to taking advice and listening to the expertise of others. A woman in the “driver’s seat” typically has no problem “pulling over and asking for help or directions.” Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is the new Director of Leadership and Training for United Way’s Leadership Windsor/Essex prog ra m( L e a d e r shipWin d sor - E s se x . org). She is a recently retired Principal and Chief Communications Officer for the Catholic School Board with over 30 years of experience as an educator, administrator, and community leader. She is also an entrepreneur, owning a number of successful businesses over the years, allowing her to sharpen her business management skills in areas such as marketing, sales and social media. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

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GUEST COLUMN

Preoccupation With Body Image Pressure To Be “Perfect” At Any Age By Luciana Rosu-Sieza

Eating disorders can affect people of any age, race, gender or sexual orientation. They are often diagnosed in teenagers and young adults, but many people are first diagnosed with an eating disorder in later adulthood. Women tend to be the most severely and commonly affected group in society from the media’s standard of beauty. From an early age, they are exposed to the use of super thin cultural icons representing “feminine beauty.” Constantly being compared to computermanipulated images of already thin and cosmetically ideal models, women of all ages develop and suffer from body dissatisfaction, depression, anorexia, bulimia, perfectionism, low self-esteem, and other psychological damages. (The “Rethink Beauty Campaign”). In most recent years, the popularity of Social Media has exploded and thanks to a variety of free applications, selfies can be altered and modified in a way that’s practically on par with makeup and other beauty products. “All this provides an illusion of control: if I spend more time and really work at it, I can improve at being beautiful,” says Rachel Simmons, a leadership

development specialist at Smith College and the Author of “Odd Girl Out” and “The Curse of the Good Girl.” We know these comparisons can make women unhappy with their appearance and can have an impact their self-esteem. Given that body dissatisfaction is an important predictor for eating disorders, we need to know if some types of comparisons are worse for people’s body image than others. In recent research, the impact of appearance comparisons made through social media, traditional media, and in person in women’s everyday lives, has found women rarely compare their appearance to others in magazines or on billboards, and only sometimes compare their appearance to others on TV. Social media comparisons better reflect the types of comparisons young women make every day. Eating Disorders are a chaotic cycle of eating and/or restricting/binging/purging/over-exercise that can be triggered by preoccupation with body image, cycles of dieting, mood and life events. When eating disorders or body image conflicts are mentioned, the face we imagine is one of youth. “It may be a preteen, an adolescent, or a young adult

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woman, but we rarely visualize an ageing face in that picture. Yet, more and more older women, approaching or beyond “midlife,” are admitting that they too struggle with their bodies and their eating and are seeking professional help.” (John Wiley, 2005) In adult women, an eating disorder is often triggered by a life-changing event, such as pregnancy, menopause, divorce, infidelity, work issues or retirement. When adult women develop an eating disorder, they often feel shame about developing what they may consider to be a “teenager’s problem.” They often find it more difficult to admit the need for help and to be motivated to receive treatment. They have increased anxiety about their appearance because of the natural aging process, but there are more obstacles to seeking treatment because of their responsibilities. (The WeightBearing Years: Eating Disorders & Body Image Despair In Adult Women — WaldenEatingDisorders.com). Middle-aged women are the fastest growing segment of the population being diagnosed with eating disorders (PsychCentral, “Eating Disorders Spike Among Middle-Aged and Older Women,” published January 2013). The Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA) provides Centralized Intake (for all ages), Specialized Diagnostic Assessment, Individualized Clinical Treatment and Dietetic Services for men and women. If you, or someone you know, is affected by an Eating Disorder visit: BANA.ca. Luciana Rosu-Sieza is the Executive Director at the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association in Windsor.

from the bookshelf

Great Lakes Shipwrecks And Simple Words To Live By By Marlene Markham-Gay

ris Kohl is a Windsor native with three degrees from the University of Windsor who has written or co-authored (along with his wife, Joan Forsberg, who is the Women Divers Hall of Fame Chairman) 16 books and more than 300 magazine and newsletter articles about the maritime history. His underwater video of shipwrecks has been shown on the CTV, CBS and PBS networks. Kohl has located and identified numerous Great Lakes shipwrecks. Their latest book is a Canada 150 project titled “Canada’s 150 Most Famous Great Lakes Shipwrecks.” Canada has some of the most well known shipwrecks on the planet, while The Great Lakes hold the b e s t - p r e s e r ve d shipwrecks in the world. Kohl and Forsberg have written stories on 150 shipwrecks and tell the tragic end that befell them. Some stories are filled with humour as the booze ship that became stranded on the shore of Lake Erie during prohibition. There are accounts of daring rescues, tales of survival, war of 1812 shipwrecks and the famous Lake Superior’s wreck, the Edmund Fitzgerald (you can just hear Gordon Lightfoot’s song in your head right?). Read about the ghost ships of Lake St. Clair and the ship that was built to find the Franklin Expedition. “Canada’s 150 Most Famous Great Lakes Shipwrecks” is a welcome addition to a home library. It can be purchased locally at Peele Wings, 636 Point Peele Drive, Leamington; Marsh Collection, 80 Richmond Street, Amherstburg; Peele Island Winery, 485 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville and in Windsor at the following locations: Juniper Books, 1990 Ottawa Street; Chimczuk Museum, 401 Riverside Drive, West and Benthic Scuba, 2825 Lauzon Parkway. Next up is a beautiful inspirational photography book by Ryan J. Horvath,

a local author and photographer. His new book is titled “Walking Wisdom: Simple Words to Live By” and highlights 50 of Horvath’s best landscape photos taken across North America.

Horvath wanted to create a book to help himself and others realize that life’s overwhelming moments are only temporary and that we all have ability to get what we want in life if we have the courage to take the first step. He started working on the book in 2015 in British Columbia and finished it in 2017 in Leamington. The small sized, hard cover book is perfect to place on a coffee table, to give as a gift or to inspire a young scholar. Stunning, glossy colour and black and white photos make it a beautiful reserve of landscapes. Horvath’s words of wisdom include, “Be patient; trust in your life’s journey” and “Take a moment to enjoy the simple things or life might pass you by”; “Sometimes second chances make you open up your eyes;” “For better or worse, one life to live, might as well give it all you have to give” are calming and with the beautiful pictures, provide soothing effects and inspiring libretti to sooth your soul. “Walking Wisdom: Simple Words to Live By” is available in Windsor at From the Heart Bookstore, 1356 Ottawa Street and Biblioasis, 1520 Wyandotte Street East. You may also purchase it online at: WalkingWisdom.ca. Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at the Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books. Marlene is an avid reader and encourages her eight grandchildren to read. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7

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THE WAY IT WAS

From Street Tents To Citadels By Andrea Grimes

he arrival of the Great Western Railway in 1854 brought immigrants, pioneers and farmers to the Western District, settling along the south shores of the Detroit River. Harvests were plentiful, trade was brisk, and the fair winds of enterprise brought a wealth of prosperity to many who developed capital ideas! Windsor’s first telephone was introduced in 1885 and a year later, the first electric streetcar brought passengers from Sandwich and Walkerville to downtown, Windsor. In a very short span of time, Windsor became known as a community of great measure. However, social ills eventually took a hold on Windsor. In 1885 Captain Louisa Daymond brought the word of The Salvation Army’s Ministry to Windsor. Although The Salvation Army (SalvationArmyWindsor.ca) was met with fierce resistance, Daymond set about bringing the word to crowds huddled in tents pitched along many of Windsor’s street corners. In need of a permanent site, The Salvation Army settled in Lambie Hall in 1894. They soon outgrew their small h-eadquarters and on April 11, 1903, The Salvation Army moved into their Citadel on London Street East across from the Windsor Armouries. In 1916, eight members of The Salvation Army Band “took up the cause” and joined the 99th Battalion to serve in WWI. “The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country,” says Shannon Wise, Salvation Army Public

The Salvation Army extends hospitality to our Veterans. London, England, circa 1942. Photo courtesy of The Salvation Army, Great Lakes Division.

Relations and Development Representative, Ontario Great Lakes Division. A heightened presence of the ministry work of The Salvation Army was realized by their plans to erect a hospital. Due to the entrepreneurial savvy of Frederick Martin, a former Salvation Army Officer, a sizeable parcel of land situated at London and Crawford was purchased from Henry Ellis, a prominent Windsor citizen, in 1918. The Grace Maternity Hospital opened in 1920. Years later, Ellis built an entire ward dedicated to the memory of his son, Lt. Stayner Ellis who fell in WWII. The Salvation Army earned recognition for its work overseas during the Great War. It provided motor ambulances, refreshment huts in military camps, and distributed parcels of food and clothing for combatants. One of the things that our soldiers marvelled at was the fact that The Salvation Army followed them . . . right to the front. Amidst the unbearable conditions of

war, The Salvation Army was recognized as establishing a degree of civility. As our men from the fields and factories of Windsor and Essex County were thrown into battle — working their way through the communication trenches and waiting to go over the top — they didn’t know enough to be scared of what they would be facing on the battlefields of Europe. And our boys came home. The transition from military service to civilian life caused personal hardships as many Veterans experienced great difficulty sharing their experiences of the horrific things they saw. On the home front, The Salvation Army’s most visible wartime effort was assisting our repatriated soldiers with the pairing of relief and social welfare. The Salvation Army organized its first nation-wide appeal for funds to support returning soldiers, in the hectic and often disorienting days following their discharge, by offering spiritual guidance, personal counselling and relief work to all military personnel seeking it. “When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community,” Wise comments. “On November 13, 2017 the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) will host The Salvation Army of Windsor’s third annual “Hope in the City Luncheon.” This event provides an opportunity for attendees to network with like-minded community and business leaders, to learn about the support opportunities available and how they can collaborate with The Salvation Army in bringing vital services to people in need, in Windsor and area.” (Check page 17 of this issue to learn more.)

CANINE RESCUE & TRANSPORT Robert Clark bbbcrescue@gmail.com

If you can’t adopt, foster. If you can’t foster, sponsor. If you can’t sponsor, volunteer. If you can’t volunteer, transport. If you can’t transport, donate. If you can’t donate, educate.

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OF THE MONTH By Dave Hall

Southwest Investigative Solutions Keeping A Close Watch For You

fter spending three decades as an Officer with the Ontario Provincial Police, Tim Nyhoff decided to step away 18 months ago and put that extensive investigative experience to good use by opening his own agency. Nyhoff launched Southwest Investigative Solutions in early 2016 and now has a number of former police officers, all with years of investigative experience, working for him on an on-call, as-needed contract basis. “When we’re busy, I know I have experienced people I can call on to take on assignments,” says Nyhoff, who retired from the OPP as a Staff Sergeant and Manager of Administrative Support with Ontario’s largest OPP detachment, Nyhoff was also a Major Incident Commander with the local detachment. All of Southwest’s investigators have similar levels of training and experience. “I didn’t want to waste my experience and specialized investigative training and I knew I had a few resources I could tap into so it was the perfect opportunity for me once I retired,” says Nyhoff, who also specialized in covert operations. Business has been building steadily over the past 18 months, but Nyhoff admits it was difficult at the beginning particularly amongst those in the legal profession who were generally comfortable with the agencies they had used in the past for investigative work. “It’s not easy for people to change and move away from agencies with whom they had built a relationship,” Nyhoff comments. Nyhoff believes that word of mouth and a number of successful investigations yielding positive client results, has

For Tim Nyhoff, Owner of Southwest Investigative Solutions, covert surveillance is the operative phrase. Photo by Rod Denis.

helped increase his business over the past few months. Private investigators are required to be licensed through the provincial Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and must also carry insurance, similar to malpractice insurance policies carried by many in the medical profession. Nyhoff’s agency will take on just about every service required by a client, but focuses on personal investigations, legal support and assistance for litigators seeking investigative expertise, corporate investigations, witness location and interviews, workplace violence prevention, computer research, motor vehicle accident reviews, arson

claim reviews, data theft, background investigations, fraud investigations, human resource investigations, insurance support, counter-intelligence and bugdetection sweeps of private homes and businesses, as well as other special services as required by clients. Other services he offers include: child or teenager activity investigations, caregiver background checks, bankruptcy research, estate disputes, pre-nuptial explorations and background checks, matrimonial or infidelity investigations and missing person searches. Nyhoff expresses to Biz X that people are increasingly worried about their privacy and sweeping for bugs is a large part of the business because, “these devices can be very small and hard to detect unless you have the equipment and expertise to find them.” “It’s interesting work, but it can also be routine at times,” states Nyhoff. “We spend a lot of time on surveillance to make sure that people are doing what they say they are doing and not doing things they shouldn’t be doing, especially in the area of disability claims for both employment and insurance purposes.” He continues by saying: “You’d be surprised at some of the activities people get up to when they think nobody is watching. It’s unfortunate, but some people are a little less honest and forthcoming than they should be when it comes to these issues. We’re often asked by employers or insurance companies to substantiate disability claims made by either accident victims or employees, and that can take time.” For more information, visit the website: SouthwestInvestigativeSolutions.ca.

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