Biz X magazine October 2019 by Biz X magazine

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION TRAINING TOMORROW’S LEADERS The Parenting Biz investigates the many local organizations — such as the Build a Dream “Career Discovery Expo” — offering support for young business minds, helping to ensure the future is in good hands. — Page 42 OCTOBER OCTOBER2019 2019

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PLUS Finding Some Positives In Downtown Windsor; Colautti Brothers Celebrates 100th Anniversary; The Popularity Of Vape Shops and more . . .

Taking Care Of Small Business!

Sabrina DeMarco of the Small Business Centre and her team are ready to sit down with Windsor Essex entrepreneurs and offer advice from concept to start-up to the early growth stages of a business. And to support current small businesses in the region, the centre prepares to host its fifth annual “W.E. Shop Local Show.” — Page 18 B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

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

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table of contents OCTOBER 2019 volume 22 • issue 9

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Funny Stuff From The Publisher: The New “Women Entrepreneurship Strategy” Editorial Viewpoint: There’s Life In Downtown Windsor After All As promised, Columnist Alan Halberstadt ferrets out some positives in the second of his twopart series entitled the “Trials And Tribulations of Downtown Windsor.” The accompanying photo (courtesy of Alexandria MacLellan) appeared on the cover collage of Biz X’s September issue, which drew a lot of attention to the popular bar, Tequila Bob’s and new restaurant (The Chelsea opening this month). Some jumped to the wrong conclusions on the state of the two businesses. As you can see written on the window are the words: “Making Your Downtown Great Again — One Business At A Time.” This phrase, used by the owners of these two businesses, proves, they, and many others, are alive and well. 8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Biz X Was There The 24th annual “Roth Mosey & Partners LLP Charity Golf Tournament,” benefitting Family Respite Services, took place at Pointe West Golf Club in mid September. As you can see by this shot, the family that putts together stays together as the Fischer clan will attest! From left (in photo by Rod Denis) are: Ian Brown, Joanne Brown, Brenda Fischer, Blake Fischer and Alexandria Fischer (Community Relations Coordinator for Family Respite Services.) 14 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 24 Hot Shots: The Summer “Black Tie Tail Gate” Fundraiser 26 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: The Facts And Nothing But The Facts On The Downtown Mission Of Windsor 28 Portfolio Corner: A Piece Of The Pie This Fall 30 Tech Bytes: Five Hot Trends To Build A Better Business

32 Food For Thought: Antonino’s Original Pizza, Windsor Situated next door to its original location in a new building, as of March 2019, Antonino’s Original Pizza is a multi-award winning three store local franchise (and growing), with roots going back to 1959. With open arms, General Manager Tony Mannina (shown in photo by David Clark) welcomes hungry guests to the 4350 Howard Avenue restaurant. 35 XX Files: Katie Gajdacs, The Hag Shop And Aussie Graphics Printing Group Inc. 36 Milestones: Get Floored! It’s Colautti Brothers 100th Anniversary 40 Ask The Experts: Better Blinds And Drapery, 2785 Howard Avenue, Windsor 42 The Parenting Biz: Preparing Kids For The World Of Business As the saying goes, “Your network is your net worth.” Our region has a strong network of support for students interested in entrepreneurship. Across Windsor Essex, there are many businesses and organizations committed to creating an environment that will foster and facilitate young entrepreneurs. A good example is illustrated by the individuals working for Build A Dream who coordinate “Career Discovery Expos” in different locations, throughout the year. On the front cover (inset photo courtesy of Sanja Tabor) a teacher from Conestoga College shows a student how to use a wiring diagram. Special days coming up such as “Manufacturing Day” and “Take Our Kids to Work Day” are also setting children on the right path to becoming the successful CEOs of tomorrow. 50 Health Matters: Be The Parent Your Child Needs You To Be 52 Event Profile: “Ontario Dress Purple Day” October 24, 2019 53 Charity Profile: The Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre 54 Halloween Safety: It’s Trick Or Treat Time! 56 Take The Lead: Matthew Nahdee, Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre 58 Making A Sound Living: Marty Bak, SLR Studios (Sound Labs Recording) 60 From The Bookshelf: A Horrendous Crime And Compassionate Caregiving 61 The Way It Was: The Windsor Goodfellows Club 62 Biz Of The Month: EncoreFX Expands Into Windsor

ON THE COVER —“Taking Care Of Small Business!” — 18

Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Centre, is photographed in the boardroom of their new downtown location at 119 Chatham Street West, Unit #100. The centre offers business planning and financial help for entrepreneurs and business owners. We interview DeMarco about the centre, but also on PAGE 5 she fills our readers in on the first ever “Women Entrepreneurship Strategy” to help more of our women-owned and women-led businesses grow, innovate and export to new markets. But that’s not all! Our cover story also gives you the details on the fifth annual “W.E. (Windsor Essex) Shop Local Show” and we highlight one of the region’s fastest-growing small business sectors — vape shops. With almost a dozen businesses selling e-juices, vaporizers and e-cigarettes across Windsor and Essex County, to vape or not to vape is the question. These local business owners believe they have the healthy answer to quitting smoking! Photo by Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com) B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

*Inset photo description can be found above under The Parenting Biz

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from the publisher

New Initiative Supports Women Pursuing Entrepreneurship In Emerging Technologies By Deborah Jones With perfect timing for this edition’s content on “Small Business Month,” my column is the perfect spot to inform our readers about a new government investment seeking to double the number of womenowned businesses by 2025. Since I’m a female business owner, and the only woman to date to be chosen “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the Windsor Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, I’m thrilled to share this wonderful news. In late August 2019, the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario announced it would be providing up to $692,000 over the next four years to provide coordinated support to women entrepreneurs to start and grow a business with a focus on emerging technologies. The first ever “Women Entrepreneurship Strategy” (WES), is led locally by the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Centre and, “will help more of our women-owned and womenled businesses grow, innovate and export to new markets,” states Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director, Small Business Centre (SBC).

“The program will provide mentorship, skills training, and programming to help women scale their businesses through access to financing, talent, networks and expertise.” To help achieve a more inclusive economy, this funding also supports more young women to pursue education or career paths that lead them to choose starting or growing a technology company. The funding is made possible with the support of the following entrepreneurial ecosystem partner agencies: the University of Windsor’s EPICentre, WEtech Alliance, Windsor Essex Capital Angel Network, WorkForce Windsor Essex and Build a Dream. Working as an integrated and coordinated ecosystem, the local organizations will help foster women to start and grow tech businesses across all stages of business development. Moreover, WES aims to ensure outreach and participation of a new generation of women entrepreneurial leaders. Considering that the Windsor Essex region is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Canada this only makes sense!

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With the support of the Government of Canada (IC.gc.ca/eic/site/107.nsf/eng/home) these partner agencies are committed to this project over the next four years and are focused on . . . • Increasing the number of young women pursuing education and entrepreneurship opportunities in emerging tech • Establishing mentorship activities that support the matchmaking of aspiring women entrepreneurs with successful leaders in the emerging tech space • Delivering boot camps and mentoring targeted at educating women entrepreneurs on accessing capital • Hosting supplier diversity workshops to encourage existing companies to develop and adopt diversity plans • Identifying and recruiting organizations to participate in workplace diversity programs To learn more, stop by the SBC main office: 119 Chatham Street West, Unit #100 in Windsor or their satellite office: 39 Maidstone Avenue East, Essex. Information is also available online at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com. In conclusion, DeMarco sums up this new strategy with hope: “We are excited to be making these resources available to support women entrepreneurs pursuing technology businesses. If you are a woman with an entrepreneurial spirit, there’s never been a better time to start a business in Windsor-Essex!” I agree!

editorial viewpoint

The Trials And Tribulations Of Downtown Windsor (Part 2) By Alan Halberstadt *If you have a comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com

n September’s column in this space — “The Trials And Tribulations Of Downtown Windsor”(Part 1) — I identified the mounting challenges facing the city’s long-suffering gateway, notably the virtual disappearance of retail stores, and the emergence of the heart-rending opioid drug crisis, interlaced with the rise of homelessness and panhandling. Last month’s article struck a chord, while angering some merchants and revamped Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) board members who have skin in the game. “Thanks for bringing attention to this,” comments Nichole Demers, Owner of Grill Twenty at 20 University Avenue East. “It (downtown) is not so far gone that it can’t be saved, but we can’t keep ignoring it like those in power want to do. I still love downtown. I still believe, but let’s move on this now.” While another social media post claimed downtown looks like a zombie apocalypse, Windsor’s core remains a long way from “Skid Row” in Los Angeles or East Hastings in Vancouver. I’m not one to sugarcoat things, but as promised, the focus of Part 2 reveals some positives. An obvious one is the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market, which operates Saturdays from May 25 to October 26, on Pelissier Street at Maiden Lane. The market is co-sponsored by the DWBIA and the Downtown Windsor Community Collaborative (DWCC), and has enjoyed a boffo business this summer. DWCC Collaborative Coordinator Sarah Cipkar reports that 50-odd vendors attract 2,500 to 3,000 customers each week. They come from far and wide looking for healthy, locally grown produce, crafts and a down-home community atmosphere. DWBIA Chair Brian Yeomans notes that another indicator of downtown’s drawing power was the 7,000 Toronto Raptors super fans who showed up at Charles Clark Square (nicknamed “Jurassic Park”) in June to view National Basketball Association games. Yeomans uses that example to demonstrate the fickle nature of public opinion.

“A week later, when Starbucks announced it was leaving its Ouellette location, downtown (reputedly) is falling apart,” he muses. By the way, “Jurassic Park” organizer and long-time downtown bar owner Renaldo Agostino says an exciting new events’ space is planned at Imperial Music Hall, 285 Ouellette Avenue. My September column noted the high turnover of restaurants and bars, but left out thriving, long-time hospitality businesses like: The Manchester Pub, The Loose Goose Restopub & Lounge, La Guardia, The Riverside Keg, Panache, Mazaar, The Bull & Barrel Urban Saloon, Four Points By Sheraton/ Fionn MacCool’s and The Bistro At The River, to name a few.

A lot of active merchants are doing very well. Up to date vacancy rates were unavailable from the city at this writing, but the DWBIA office reports that there were 615 ground floor members at last count, with 44 vacancies. A lot of active merchants are doing very well. One of those is late-night dance and nightclub Tequila Bob’s at 576 Ouellette Avenue. A throwback to the kiddy bar days, it attracts on average over 3,000 people a week to its second floor party room, according to Co-owners Kash Hasan and Patrick Kim. A year and a half ago they purchased the building, which had been partially vacant for over 10 years. They invested heavily in renovations on the empty second floor and almost overnight transformed it into the largest bar in the city with 800-plus capacity. They also own the award winning Ariius Nightclub & Ultralounge inside Caesars Windsor (599 capacity). Now The Chelsea Restaurant on the ground floor of Tequila Bob’s is due to open this month. An upscale chic New York style pub, The Chelsea has a capacity of 450 and features original New York pizza cooked in a coal fired oven. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

A banner, posted onsite on the entire building before the restaurant opened, read: “Making Your Downtown Great Again — One Business At A Time.” This phrase is still used by the owners on their social media promotions. (NOTE: A colourful exterior shot of both businesses was featured on the cover of our September issue). “The only coal-fired oven in Ontario puts downtown Windsor on the stage,” boasts Hasan. “Critical to our success is being unique and different. This is what helped boost the renaissance of downtown Detroit.” Other relative newcomers to today’s downtown scene are Demers’ Grill Twenty; On A Roll Sushi & Sliders, 63 Pitt Street East, owned by the Stratis family and Mexican restaurant Quesada Burritos & Tacos at 337 Ouellette Avenue. Along with Yeomans, Demers formally owned the Kilt & Fiddle Irish Pub, but it closed down, along with other Chatham Street establishments: Koko Pellies, Pitt For Pasta, The Pour House Pub, and Lefty’s, at the hands of an (allegedly) unscrupulous landlord with reports of illegal evictions, changing the locks and/or major rent increases. She worked for out-of-town establishments for four years before saving enough coin to set up her restaurant in the old United Grill, 20 University Avenue East, a year ago. She is excited about the dawn of the new DWBIA board, in particular its strategy of pulling back from sponsoring costly one-off events such as the “Fiesta Latina” and concentrate on an enhanced retail recruitment drive. She and Yeomans believe filling up the vacancies with businesses and residents will generate foot traffic, make the homeless panhandlers less visible and generate pride among the occupants to shovel snow and clean up the alleys. The DWBIA has been offering commercial rent subsidies to new businesses for several years with mixed success. Of 20 businesses from eligible sectors, 13 stayed in business downtown or elsewhere, for several years. Sunrise Bakery, a neighbour of Grill Twenty on University Avenue East, was a notable exception. Owner Ali Bazzi, citing lack of foot traffic, relocated to Walker Road in The City Market in 2017. The new board is currently working on a new business recruitment program to be rolled out by the end of the year. In 2017, the City of Windsor started picking up the tab for the DWBIA’s façade improvement plan, splitting the cost with merchants to spruce up their storefronts, with the city’s share capped at $30,000. So far seven have been approved.

City Council, recently agreed to set aside funding to encourage development of vacant lots, with a special eye on small scale residential growth downtown. Three incentivized multi residential developments are targeted for downtown, including a 24-unit luxury condominium under construction across from the Windsor Public Library (Central Branch) which has been sold to the The Downtown Mission of Windsor. The rebirth of Chatham Street West can be viewed as a positive for downtown. Spurred on by a suite of generous tax deferrals and incentive grants, a local investment group has converted the long vacant Fish Market into a mixed use structure that houses Detroit’s Quicken Loans finance company. Several other vacant buildings have been purchased on Chatham, and across the street from Quicken Loans, the Windsor-Essex Economic Development Corporation and Small Business Centre now inhabits the revamped City Beer Market and Chatham Street Grill buildings. The University of Windsor and St. Clair College have done their bit, transforming old buildings like the Windsor Armouries into beautiful downtown campuses. Mega developer Shmuel Farhi has tapped into

“Downtown has such potential,” says Lucky Stratis, pictured with daughter Gabriella. Photo courtesy of On A Roll Sushi & Sliders.

City Hall’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) grants and tax abatements to begin the transformation of two tired Riverside Drive hotels into a high-end replacement complex including a restaurant and outdoor patio. On a smaller, but very successful scale, the Stratis family — father Lucky,

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son George and daughter Gabriella have found a niche on Pitt Street East, along with Panache and La Guardia. Lucky, who has toiled at 14 restaurants, including downtown’s ill-fated Johnny Canucks, in his colourful career, decided to jump out of retirement to open On A Roll Sushi & Sliders with his kids two years ago. The business is jam packed nightly and is a Biz X Award winner for “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot For 2017”. “Downtown has such potential,” he emotes, while telling me that he is planning a “Feast Of Friends Festival” next June 6 in the downtown bus station parking lot to raise money for charity, selling CDs of rock and roll songs by local musicians. The underlying message to downtown businesses is to stop competing with each other and work together. Lucky says police activity downtown is much better. All of the merchants I talked to agreed that petty crime is down significantly since Windsor Police Service assigned 12 additional officers downtown last year. And finally, the city’s first legal pot shop is due to open at vacant 545 Ouellette Avenue in November. Yeomans greeted this news as a definite positive for downtown. I will reserve judgement.

FRONTLINES

Cardinal Place Celebrates Fifth Year In Windsor’s West End With An Expansion “Here we grow again” says Mike Cardinal, a second career Registered Psychotherapist, and founder of Cardinal Place — Smart Retirement Living, 3140 Peter Street in Windsor (website: CardinalPlace.ca). Appropriately, on “National Seniors Day” October 1, Cardinal Place has had its Ontario Retirement Home Licence for exactly five years. Formerly the Holy Names Residence, the building has gradually transitioned from student living to seniors’ retirement living. Until now, only the first three floors have been available for the seniors. But, with additional fire safety equipment, the fourth floor will now be allowed to accommodate an ever-growing list of seniors. Fire safety is a top priority at Cardinal Place (CP) with concrete construction, sprinklers everywhere, fireproof doors, monitored alarm system, strobe light alarms, and a regularly trained and tested staff. “Our safety system is equal to a public hospital,” Cardinal claims and projects, “Based on our waiting list, we expect to see the new rooms swiftly fill up.” Cardinal credits his success to the hardworking team at CP for creating a safe, warm, and caring environment. Over 30 full and part time jobs have been created in Sandwich to look after these senior “members”. The team provides food, housecleaning, building upkeep, personal and nursing care, and a range of social and physical activities. The CP difference is their broad “all inclusive” and low rates, compared to other companies in the same industry. The nursing staff even look after medicine

In front of the Cardinal Place bus, Mike Cardinal, Owner/Operator of Cardinal Place is pictured with his mother, Mary Cardinal (also a resident at Cardinal Place) and his dog, Jake, the retirement home’s favourite pet. Photo courtesy of Cardinal Place.

distribution at no extra charge. The only upcharges are extra care time if not provided by OHIP through the Local Health Integration Network (LHIN). A relaxed and engaged life is the standard at Cardinal Place. Daily activities include stretching, balance and range of motion exercise classes, group games, card playing, puzzling, arts and crafts, movie nights and regular live entertainment. “Have you noticed us getting around the city and county in our CP Bus?” Cardinal asks. The business uses a retired 30 foot transit bus for regular outings to places like Devonshire Mall, IDA “Seniors Day”, Dairy Freez, Colasanti’s, Point Pelee, and the City of Windsor Christmas

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“Bright Lights” viewings, and other county tours. “I think it would be fun to add a sign to the back reading ‘Seniors Don’t Stop . . . we keep rolling,’” jokes Cardinal. And when you don’t feel like engaging in activities, everyone gets a private room at Cardinal Place. “There is no such thing as privacy in a semi-private (room),” quips Cardinal. Cozy rooms include local and North American phone calls, WIFI, and TV signal at no extra charge. With the expansion to the fourth floor, Cardinal Place’s capacity will increase to around 72 seniors, making it large enough for quality service, yet small enough for personal care. Congratulations Cardinal Place on five years of local, quality service for our elderly!

FRONTLINES

A New Efficient Operation Means Bright Future For 123 Year Old Charity

As one society volunteer, who wishes to remain anonymous, says “while working with the society I met both Canadians and immigrants who we have helped get back on their feet. These stores are the lifeblood and face of the society and are one of the ways we are able to fund our acts of charity.” The society plans a grand opening October 19 and donations will cease to be accepted at Chilver Road on October 15. “We have already moved some clothing and furniture from our off-site warehouse into the new building and we expect the transition to be seamless,” adds Winger.

Mock-up courtesy of David Jacob Duke Creative Design Studio. After spending decades serving Windsorarea clients from its resale store on Chilver Road, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) Windsor-Essex Central Council is relocating to a larger space at 1245 Lauzon Road on the city’s far east side. “This will give our organization a higher profile location, which doesn’t compromise our goal of putting stores in areas of easy access to those we serve,” explains SSVP General Manager Rosanne Winger. The organization, which was established locally in 1896, is also moving its warehouse and administrative offices into the same east-end location. “It will create a more efficient operation so that we will have more funds to support our many programs in Windsor and Essex County,” states Winger. “There’s only myself, a Warehouse Manager and an Administrative Assistant, so we’re stretched

pretty thin and this will make us more efficient if we are in the same location.” The new site encompasses about 8,000 square feet compared to 4,500 at Chilver. Winger also points out: “In addition to the fact we have outgrown our old building, consolidating our locations will be more cost-efficient since we won’t be paying utilities at two sites.” The new building was largely funded by the sale of the Chilver building, but Winger mentions that donations are still being sought and a donor wall has been established at the new building. In addition to providing affordable clothing and household items to those in need, St. Vincent de Paul also offers emotional and material support to the most vulnerable in our society. It also operates a voucher system for those in need of free non-food items.

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SSVP General Manager Rosanne Winger is ready and waiting to open the doors to the new 1245 Lauzon Road location. Photo courtesy of Fran Gouin.

In addition to operating its resale shop, the society also coordinates home, hospital and nursing home visits, works to eradicate poverty, delivers food, operates a food bank and provides free beds on a voucher system four times a year. There are also stores in Amherstburg, Essex and Harrow. For more information, view: SsvpWindsorEssex.com.

FRONTLINES

Windsor Basketeers

Have A Gift For Helping Women In Shelters Transition To New Beginnings The Windsor chapter of the 20 year old Basketeers organization was recently created to provide gift baskets for residents of Hiatus House (HiatusHouse.com). With a goal of providing 42 baskets brimming with thoughtful and essential items, Windsor Basketeers is partnering with Hiatus House to help women transition from the emergency women’s shelter to their new beginnings. “I was introduced to Basketeers through a colleague who worked in Toronto,” says Mary-Ann Stark, co-lead for the local chapter. “I loved the idea that I could do something special for women who need support, and now I get to make a difference in my own community.” The Windsor Basketeers group is part of a national volunteer organization in Toronto that has been supporting women in shelters for 20 years. Volunteers with Basketeers fill baskets with personal and household

items women need when moving to a new home. Most of these women fled abusive relationships, which often means leaving their belongings behind. The baskets not only provide necessities, but they can also provide comfort and encouragement during a time of great need. To date, the national organization has supported 54 women’s shelters and is still growing. Stark, and partner Bonnie Pacuta, have found a powerful and satisfying way to serve their community with this local chapter that will donate baskets to Hiatus House. The beautiful and carefully curated baskets — often decorated with breathtaking bows, nurturing notes and lots of love — are given to women when they are ready to leave the shelter. And donations are needed to help met the goal of 42 baskets! “We are currently reaching out to anyone who is looking for a meaningful and creative

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Bonnie Pacuta (left, also with the Rotary Club of Windsor Walkervillle) and Mary-Ann Stark are co-leading the newly launched chapter of the Windsor Basketeers. Photo courtesy of Windsor Basketeers.

way to help others,” says Stark. “Preparing a basket can be a wonderful family or group experience and, even better, your efforts will provide support for someone who really needs it.” This year’s drop-off date is Saturday, November 23, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at The Safety Village (7911 Forest Glade Drive, Windsor) providing easy access and plenty of parking for those who are donating baskets for the cause. Their website (Basketeers.org) is chock full of information about what kinds of items basket recipients need, and the local organization’s Facebook page offers tips including where to shop and how to “wrap” the baskets. You can also contact them by email: windsor@basketeers.org.

HEARD ON THE STREET Erie Street East, home to many of Windsor’s finest Italian restaurants, is diversifying and adding more options for diners looking for something different. The latest is Mi Amor Creperie at 770 Erie Street East, a location that was previously home to Sorrento, Centro and Vesta cafes. Owner Dave Foley says his aim is for the new venture to be a “little avant garde or bohemian, kind of artsy and catering to the after-dinner crowd looking for dessert or a glass of wine before heading home.” He plans on offering crepes, both savoury and sweet, along with fondue selections and sweet desserts. Foley says local artists will be invited to display their works on the cafe’s walls and they will have an evening set aside during which they can sell their artwork. Foley adds he had a soft opening over the Labour Day weekend during the annual “Via Italia” cycling races and that the café was fully open by mid-September. He plans to be open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. “We’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback from the neighbours and I’m looking forward to it,” says Foley, who has years of experience in the hospitality and entertainment sector. Other new restaurants expected to open along the street include a Greek eatery in a space formerly occupied by Nico’s and owners of El Mayor, which closed on Wyandotte Street East after a fire in January, and are said to be re-opening in the space previously occupied by La Zingara. Owners of two local coffee bars are opening a third location at Devonshire Mall. Kyle and Rachel Bondy opened Anchor Coffee House at 2187 Huron Church Road in January 2014 and followed that with the Anchor Bakery and Espresso Bar in Olde Walkerville, at 543 Lincoln Road in June 2017. Now, they’re taking the plunge by opening at Devonshire in mid-October. “We had a small location at the

Downtown Windsor Farmer’s Market six years ago and when we started selling out every week, we decided to open on Huron Church,” explains Kyle. The business is a 2016 Biz X Award winner for “Fantastic Family Business” and as you can see by reading about their expansions, the Judges definitely made a good decision. Kyle adds that a mall location wasn’t on their radar screen until mall management came calling. “They’re trying to add as many local entrepreneurs as they can and came after us pretty hard for about six months,” says Kyle. “It was this change and the fact they like to handpick their local businesses that convinced us it would be a great fit.” Since committing to a major $70 million renovation and retrofit, mall business has exploded, according to Kyle. The mall location, adjacent to Lululemon, Purdy’s and Roots, will open at 9 a.m., to give mall employees a place to grab a coffee and some breakfast. It will remain open until 9 p.m. The menu, which features frittatas and bagels for breakfast and salads and paninis for lunch, will remain much the same, says Kyle. The Bondys also operate a catering business out of their Huron Church location, focusing largely on corporate meetings and business clients. Capitalizing on the success of their first two ventures, Owners of The Loose Goose Restopub & Lounge in downtown Windsor and the G.O.A.T. in LaSalle, are both launching new restaurants. The G.O.A.T., (decor features memorabilia from the Greatest Athletes Of All Time) owned by WKND Hospitality Group, had a soft opening of their new establishment on August 24 in the Lakeshore MedArts property at 1303 Essex County Road 22, Suite 190, in Belle River. Meanwhile, Loose Goose Owners Angus MacKinnon and Dan Spada plan to open

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their second restaurant in the Lakeshore Oasis Centre at 486 Advance Boulevard near the intersection of County Road 22 and Patillo Road, in December. Owners of John Max Sports & Wings, a popular sports bar with two locations in Windsor, have taken over operation of the Sandbar Waterfront Grill at 930 Old Tecumseh Road in Belle River. The Troup Group of Companies still owns the restaurant and it’s expected that its name will not be changed. “It’s a lease situation and they will run it on our behalf,” says Troup Group President Robert Troup, who still owns the Puce River Harbour Marina where the Sandbar is located. The Sandbar and the marina are multiple Biz X Award winners in 2002, 2006, 2011 and most recently 2018. The John Max restaurants are located at 3208 Dougall Avenue and 2601 Lauzon Parkway. John Max owners John McKibbon and John O’Kane couldn’t be reached for comment before press time. Less than two years after opening their first Oven 360 pizza restaurant at 1349 Grand Marais Road West in Windsor, business partners Remo Tortola and Lucio Franceschelli are preparing to open numbers five and six in Leamington (24 Seacliff Drive East) and Chatham (346 St. Clair Street). “Our growth has been great and it’s all due to our customers and staff,” says Tortola, who has been making pizzas since 2002. “I just wanted to do something different, which I couldn’t do where I was before,” he notes. Oven 360 has an open concept kitchen, allowing customers to select their own toppings and build their own pizzas which then go into a 360 degree Celsius oven. A turntable in the oven rotates once and after less than three minutes, the pizza is ready. “You can be in and out in less than five minutes so long as there is no lineup,” adds Tortola. The chain’s other restaurants are located at 3873 Walker Road, 1226 County Road 22 in Emeryville and 6505 Malden Road in LaSalle. They also offer paninis, salads, pastas and gelato. “It’s exciting and very busy, but we love it,” says Franceschelli. “You don’t mind being busy when you love what you’re doing and you’re working for yourself.”

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was there! The 11th annual “Shar’s Ride for MS” was held on September 15, 2019 — and over the years, Ride Organizer Shar Good (right) and her team have raised $98,000! All funds raised stay local to the MS Society of Canada (Windsor-Essex Chapter) and help those who have MS in our own community with mobility equipment, incontinence supplies and more. Good is shown giving Margie Ouellette a great big welcome hug for taking over as the 2020 Ride Organizer. Good, who was diagnosed with MS in 1987, sadly must step down for health reasons, but will still work behind the scenes.

From left: Rodney Roehler and Heather Court Roehler with the Emergency Motorcycle Care Unit were present to care for any riders who may have been in trouble. The couple pose for this group shot with: Shar Good, Ride Organizer and ninth graders Ashley Barby and Jaspar Wilkinson who are earning their 40 hours of Community Service for their High School Diploma. Continuing from the left — members of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club Association: Noel Meloche, Beth Langis, Roger Langis, Gail Nantais, Michael Nantais, Jackie Lively, Kelly Flaming and Christine Flaming — were once again the Parade Marshalls.

“Shar’s Ride for MS” photos by Rod Denis. Motorcyclists and passengers participating in the ride began the day with a breakfast at The Moose Lodge #1499 located at 777 Tecumseh Road West, Windsor, then travelled 150 km throughout the region to various poker stops and ended back at The Moose for a family-style dinner. From left: Lila Ezwawi, Adam Ezwawi, Dan Batson, Administrator; Becca Burkoski, Noor Katoola and Youen Koola, donated their time to volunteer to help prepare and serve the food to all the hungry riders.

The 11th annual “Shar’s Ride for MS” would not have been possible without the dedicated work of the volunteers, from left (back row): Connie Richardson, Jacqueline Hopkins, Becky Davidson, Yolanda Murphy, Fran Sales, Bob Durocher, Shelley and Gerry Pinsonneault, Heather Lindsey, Debbie Arnold, Bianca and Kyle Heuchan. (Front row kneeling): Margie Ouellette, Scott White, Barb Deguire, Tina Durocher and Shar Good. B IZI Z X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

The 24th annual “Roth Mosey & Partners LLP Charity Golf Tournament,” benefitting Family Respite Services, was held in September at Pointe West Golf Club, 200 Golfwood Drive in Amherstburg, on a lucky Friday the 13th. From left: Mike Steffler, Sales Consultant at The Benefits Company, HUB International; Marc DiBiase, Business Manager and Controller at Hrycay Consulting Engineers Inc.; Jennifer Di Caro, Accounting and Assurance Partner at Roth Mosey & Partners, and Tim Jones, President at Rock Harbour Wealth Management Inc., show off their favourite drivers for our photographer before the tournament starts. Fore!

Roth Mosey has been able to raise over $230,000 for various charities within Windsor Essex over the past 24 years, thanks in large part to the support of the clients and business contacts who participate in the tournament. Always a big community supporter, the Motor City Community Credit Union were in attendance and represented by the Commercial Lending Team, from left: Steve Schincariol, Lorie Parent, Shawn Knowles and Fabio Cesca.

“Roth Mosey Golf Tournament” photos by Rod Denis. While we don’t condone smoking, a cigar and a golf club seem to go hand-inhand for some golfers. From left: Marc Mundy, BMO Financial Group; Peter McMahon and David Kent, BMO Estate Insurance Advisory Services Inc. and Mike Stojcevski, BMO Financial Group. Catharine Shanahan, Executive Director for Family Respite Services makes the rounds, greeting the 121 golfers to thank them for participating. Here she poses (from left) with Adam Kane, Dan Kane Chevrolet Cadillac Ltd.; Anthony Mascaro, Managing Partner Roth Mosey & Partners; Luigi Dipierdomenico and Jamie Mingay, Jamieson-Hilts Insurance Brokers, just before they tee off.

Windsor resident, Captain Brad Krewench, CD Commanding Officer of the 2918 Essex and Kent Scottish Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps and founder and CEO of AdoptA-Vet Canada, was recently presented with the Veterans Affairs Commendation in recognition of his support of our Veterans by Cheryl Hardcastle, MP Windsor-Tecumseh. The presentation ceremony took place September 11, 2019 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 594 in Windsor at 5030 Howard Avenue. Photo courtesy of Brad Krewench, CD.

On September 8, 2019 Performance Wellness Centre held its grand opening at 2451 Dougall Avenue, Unit D, on the property of Windsor’s Dorwin Plaza. Owners Frank and Louanne Nacci (centre) and their children, Samantha (left), Serena and Gavin, are pictured during a special ribbon cutting ceremony. The brand new 23,000 square foot building features: flexible memberships, affordable personal training packages, all day classes, child watch, a private women’s only area, massage room, sauna, tanning bed, lounge area, shake bar, coffee shop, 2,500 square foot boot camp challenge class area, and even more to come. For more information please visit: PerformanceWellnessCentre.com. Photo by Della Jones-Goulet.

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN WFCU Investment Services is now Avanti Wealth. For more than 25 years, Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) has been providing its members with the best investment, estate, insurance, and retirement planning services through WFCU Investment Services. WFCU President and CEO Eddie Francis explains, “Under the new name Avanti Wealth, we will expand on our efforts to continually improve upon the quality products and services we offer. We have renewed our focus on investment and wealth services and are expanding the way these services are delivered to our members and the community.” The new Avanti Wealth building, 7041 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor, provides ample parking, is easily accessible, and is centrally located to service all residents of Windsor and Essex County. Under the new Avanti Wealth brand, Wealth Consultants Sandy Kosak and Michael Middleton, along with Wealth Coordinators Angela Garant and Emily Tontodonati, will continue to provide market leading investment offerings, retirement, estate and investment planning, and an array of insurance services. “We’re excited to bring more to our clients and the community,” comment Kosak and Middleton. “With the introduction of our new brand, a new location, improved technology and additional resources aimed at improving our clients’ overall experience, we are setting ourselves apart from the competition by offering a truly unique experience people won’t find at traditional wealth management firms. We like to say that financially we bring people peace of mind.” For more information visit: AvantiWealth.ca.

ON THE MOVE As of September 3, 2019 Chris Ensing is the new host of “CBC Windsor News at 6,” its evening television news, broadcasting live from 6 to 6:30 p.m. weeknights. Born and raised in London, Ontario, Ensing first started with CBC in 2011. Throughout his extensive career, he has covered local and national stories in Toronto, Gander and Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador, London, Ontario and most recently, Windsor. “As a video-journalist at CBC Windsor, Chris has focused on

Chris Ensing, the new host of “CBC Windsor News at 6.” Photo courtesy of CBC.

telling stories that are unique to the people and communities within Windsor/Essex County, while also seeking out the voices of those who make up the multicultural and Indigenous fabric of the region,” states Marissa Nelson, CBC Senior Managing Director, Ontario Region. “He is a seasoned multi-platform journalist and a market leader in his innovative approach to storytelling, from his video skills to CBC streaming platforms and social media. Chris will continue to lead our coverage on providing context to the breaking news, and bring our

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viewers stories that they will only hear on CBC.” “CBC Windsor News at 6” can be viewed on Channel 9 (CBET); Channel 10 (Cogeco); Channel 587 (Bell TV), Channel 644 (Shaw), and live streamed at CBC.ca/ windsor or on CBC.ca/gem. Connect and engage with Chris Ensing by following him on Twitter (@ChrisEnsingCBC); Facebook (Chris Ensing) and Instagram (chrisensingcbc).

HALL OF FAME In mid September the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce announced its 25 annual “Business Excellence Awards (BEA)” finalists as follows. “Customer First” — Chartwell Leamington, Leamington Collision, Thrift on Mill and Wharram’s Jewellery. “Excellence in Food Services” — Carmen’s Catering, Leamington Portuguese Club and Taylor Fish Company. “Grow South Essex” — Del Fresco Produce, Nature Fresh and Red Sun Farms. “Industrial/Manufacturing Excellence” — A.M.A. Horticulture, Global Packing Packaging Solutions and Highbury Canco. “Innovation” — Climate Control Systems, Southwestern Ontario Gleaners and Seacliff Energy Corp. “Invest in a World Class Workforce” — Hicks, MacPherson, Iatonna & Driedger LLP, Erie Shores Healthcare and Sunset Produce. “Positive Professionals” — Donny Pacheco, Matt Snoie and Roberta Weston. “Small Business Excellence” (under nine employees) — Big Help Business Solutions, Edge Point

Communications and Speedprint Ltd. “Small Business Excellence” (with 10 to 50 employees) — Cindy’s Home & Garden, Gabriele’s Home & Flooring and Parker DKI. “Warm Welcome” — Best Western Plus, Century 21 Erie Shores Realty Inc. and Lakeside Bakery Deli Café. “Welcoming Accessibility Award” — The Bridge Resource Youth Centre, Lakeside Produce and South Essex Community Council. “Young Entrepreneur” — Amy Saba, The Branding Loft; Faith Monaco, Impact Health & Fitness Centre and Ed Krahn, Counter Effects. “Youth Excellence” — TBA. The overall winners are revealed October 9, 2019 during a dinner and ceremony held at the Leamington Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot Street West. Tickets (plus tax) are available for $75 or tables of 8 for $560. Get more details online at the website: LeamingtonChamber.com. The Giovanni Caboto Club of Windsor and the Italian Women’s Club are proud to announce their selection for the 2019 “Italian of the Year,” — Stefano (Steve) Riolo. Born in Piombino, Province of Livorno, Italy in 1948, Riolo immigrated to Canada when he was 18. Like many Italian immigrants before and since, he brought with him a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed. He used this desire to build a business from

on Friday October 25, 2019 at the Caboto Club. Tickets are $95 and proceeds support The Windsor Feminist Theatre and The Windsor Residence for Young Men. For further information check: CabotoClub.com or email Roberto Tonial at: rtonial@cabotoclub.com.

Steve Riolo, 2019 “Italian of the Year.” Photo courtesy of Brad MacLaren.

a small local drywall supply company into one of the area’s premier building centres, BMR — Windsor Building Centre (11365 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor; WindsorBuildingCentre.com). Always a civic minded person, he was instrumental in acquiring the Windsor Spitfires franchise where he worked tirelessly, to not only make sure the franchise stayed in Windsor, but also to build it into the lucrative and exciting entertainment business it is today. A leader in the Italian community as well as in the business community of Windsor and Essex County, Riolo has also been part of many local fundraising efforts for charities such as the Children’s Miracle Network, The Diabetes Association as well as working for the local Friuli and Eritrea Earthquake relief efforts. A gala honouring Riolo takes place

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NEW IN BIZ With a grand opening September 20, 2019, REC Health & Fitness is a new gym that offers group classes as well as private and semi-private sessions with personal trainers.“We were both raised in the Essex area and have been involved with many health/fitness events in and around our community,” state owners Ryan Phaneuf and Cheri Mulcaster. “We feel that staying in our hometown is the best way to serve our loved ones and supporters. Since Essex is the centre of many surrounding towns, we envision members travelling to our community and staying for all that our town has to offer.” The facility — located at 31 Arthur Avenue in Essex Centre — features unique indoor cycling classes with Pilates equipment. They also offer wellness workshops, corporate packages, and fundraising events for local community groups.

DATES TO REMEMBER October/November2019

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Oct. 6 to 12: The campaign for “Fire Prevention Week” is “Not every hero wears a cape,” so plan and practice your escape! Refer to: FirePreventionWeek.org for more details or contact your local fire department. Oct. 11: “The Bootleggers Bash: Celebrating 100 Years” at the Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside Drive East, Windsor starts at 8 p.m. The ticket price of $30 (in advance on: Eventbrite.ca or $35 at the door) includes a sampling of drinks and partial proceeds benefit Family Respite Services Windsor-Essex. Questions? Call 977-2065. Oct. 14: Happy Thanksgiving! Oct. 16: “Boss’s Day” is a time to celebrate all the great bosses in our region. If your boss is a leader who inspires you to go the extra mile show your appreciation with a card, a bouquet of flowers, small gift or a lunch out. (it helps support local businesses too!) Oct. 17: The Rotary Club of LaSalle Centennial and the Interact Club of LaSalle present the second annual “Trivia Challenge” from 6 to 9:30 p.m. with a chicken and pasta buffet to support local and international Rotary projects at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 594, located at 5030 Howard Avenue in Windsor. Tickets are $35 each for a table of eight (one team). Email: lasallecentennial@ gmail.com for details or phone 969-7965. Oct. 17 to 22: The 18th annual “BookFest” hosted by Literary Arts Windsor aims to introduce Canadian authors, poets and illustrators to area residents. The festival includes readings, panels, children’s workshops and school visits. Honouring our official languages and the francophone heritage of Windsor Essex, the festival also includes a francophone component. Did you know that some of Canada’s most acclaimed authors have been at “BookFest” such as the late Alistair MacLeod, Joyce Carol Oates, Lawrence Hill, Tony Grey, Alexander MacLeod, Casey Plett and Leamington’s own Nino Ricci? This year, Canada Reads 2019 author and a 2018 finalist for the Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize, Lindsay Wong is attending “BookFest”. Her debut memoir, “The Woo Woo: How I Survived Ice Hockey, Drug Raids, Demons and My Crazy Chinese Family” is getting significant attention across Canada and internationally as well. Tickets are available on: Eventbrite.ca; at the Biblioasis Bookstore, 1520 Wyandotte East, Windsor or at the door. Check: BookFestWindsor.com for the listing of authors, locations, pricing and the schedule for 2019. Oct. 18: The Windsor Life Centre’s (WLC) 10th annual gala — “A Spanish Fair” — takes place at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road., R.R. #1 from 6:30 until 11:30 p.m. Dinner, dancing, silent auction, a live Flamenco performance,

and Spanish guitarist are among the festivities. Tickets are $125 and 100% of all proceeds raised go towards the WLC’s six to 12 month residential women’s recovery program. For further details, email: events@windsorlifecentre.com; check out: WindsorLifeCentre.com or call 972-5986. Oct. 21 to Oct. 26: During “Tech Week YQG” WEtech Alliance partners with tech leaders, academic institutions, and the community to build a unique experience for tech entrepreneurs, tech talent, tech lovers, researchers and investors. The ultimate goal is to promote, accelerate and celebrate our local tech community as well as educate attendees on what the future holds in order to stay globally competitive. New themes have been added to the 2019 schedule including: Tech Vote and Tech Enabled. For more information view: TechWeekYQG.com. Oct. 24: The “W.E. (Windsor Essex) Shop Local Show” at the Fogolar Furlan Club, 1800 N. Service Road in Windsor takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Discover locally-made, independent products and services including food and beverages from local restaurants, caterers, cafés and bakeries. Find out more at: WEShopLocalShow.com; calling 253-6900; or reading pages 18 & 19 of this edition. Oct. 25: The Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland presents “Wines of the World” an international and regional wine, spirits and culinary event beginning at 6 p.m. inside St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. For your $75 all inclusive (wine and food) ticket or a table of 10 for $700, call 981-1713. Oct. 25: The 2019 “Italian of the Year Gala” at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor starts at 6 p.m. to honour Stefano (Steve) Riolo (learn more about him in the Newsflash column of this issue). Proceeds to support The Windsor Feminist Theatre and The Windsor Residence for Young Men. Admission is $95 per person. For more information, email: rtonial@cabotoclub.com; go to: CabotoClub.com or dial 252-8383. Oct. 26: “My Neurodivergent Child” presented by Corrine Bridger takes place at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Do you have a child with Autism, ADHD, OCD, Mental Health Disorders such as anxiety or a learning disability? Then you have a “neurodivergent” child. Plan to attend this seminar style event bringing together families of neurodivergent children, health and wellness partners, community organizations and service providers. Come and meet other families, hear from leaders in our community about the power of connection, health and wellness, self care, social media and how incredible the neurodivergent brain is. Bridging the gap to build more resilient B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

kids, stronger families and more connected communities! Admission is $20 with lunch included. For more info refer to: Eventbrite.ca; email: myndchild@gmail.com or phone 965-6361. Oct. 26: The WFCU Credit Union “Trick or Trot” at the WFCU Centre, 8787 McHugh Street in Windsor happens from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. This is a Halloween themed 5K Run, 5K Walk and Kids Dash. With a costume contest, food, music and more both before and after the race. Pre-registration is required at: RaceRoster.com. Admission is $20 for the Kids Dash and $45 for the 5K Run/Walk. For more info call 974-3100 or email: communityinvestment@wfcu.ca. On October 26 & 27 see the “Hocus Pocus Halloween” performers at Heimat Hall. Clockwise from centre are: Count Creeps (Paul Reaume); Lyall Cousins; Paul Cousins; Brad Toulouse; Steven Scott; Ayden Reaume; Box Girl (Mandie Fox) and Cleetus the Clown (Craig Desmarais). Photo courtesy of Paul Reaume.

Oct. 26 & 27: A night of magical family fun awaits with “Hocus Pocus Halloween” at Heimat Hall, 1367 Drouillard in Windsor with Saturday show time 7: 30 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. Presented by Paul Reaume, this spectacle of sorcerers is now celebrating its fourth year of production. This year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever! Special guests performing include: Lyall Cousins, Paul Cousins, Brad Toulouse, Steven Scott and Ayden Reaume. Of course the show’s regular band of misfits return as Count Creeps, Cleetus the Clown, and Box Girl to present their special blend of magic, fun, and laughter. Tickets for adults are $20 and for kids 12 and under, tickets are $15. Senior/group rates, and family packs are also available. A portion of the profits will be donated to W.E. Care For Kids. For more information please email: paulreaume@hotmail.com; visit: Facebook.com/paulreaume or call 903-6922. Oct. 27: The fourth annual “Halloween Spooktacular” presented by the Transition to Betterness (T2B) Youth Ambassadors and the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society takes place at Malden Park Visitors Centre, 4200 Malden Road in Windsor starting at 10:30 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. Bring the entire family, including your pups and start the day with a doggie walk at 11:30 a.m. Doggie walk is a minimum $25 pledge per dog. But, the fun doesn’t stop there! Stay from noon until 4 p.m. for a day jam-packed with fun activities and live performances from local youth. Don’t forget to stop by for a family photo

op, decorate a pumpkin, get your face painted, enter the costume contest, play a few yard games, or enjoy tasty food from the grill. This year, The Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund is sponsoring and manning the BBQ. Characters from “Star Wars” and “Toy Story” (Jessie and Woody), are also going to be on site. Proceeds from this event support the T2B Youth Ambassadors commitment to local paediatric programs. For further details email: info@t2b.ca; see: T2B.ca or phone 944-5143. Oct. 27: The fifth annual “Honour of Duty Veterans Brunch,” presented by the Jr. Moose to support our Veterans for their duty and service to Canada, takes place at the Windsor Moose Lodge #1499, 777 Tecumseh Road West. FREE for all military service Veterans and children are invited to bring their families and friends to experience the tradition of remembrance. Doors open at 11 a.m. with the meal served at noon. All tickets must be picked up by Oct. 21 at the Windsor Moose Lodge #1499 Monday to Sunday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. For ticket information check their Facebook page or call the Windsor Moose Lodge 1499 at 253-1834. Oct. 27: “A Very Spooky” fundraiser presented by Revolution Youth Theatre takes place at Rockstar Music Hall, 2418 Central Avenue, Windsor from 3 to 5 p.m. All ages welcome! Enjoy some Halloween themed performances while supporting youth theatre. Email: revolutionyouththeatre@hotmail.com for info or log on to: RevolutionYouthTheatre.org. Tickets are $10 each or family packs for 2 adults and 2 children (under 16) are $30 purchased at the door or reserve advanced tickets by calling 226-345-9891. Oct. 31: Happy Halloween! Nov. 1: “Eat, drink, and be SCAR-Y!” presented by Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) Windsor-Essex County is a pasta fundraising dinner at the Maj. F.A. Tilston Armoury & Police Training Centre, 4007 Sandwich Street West in Windsor from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. (dinner 6 p.m.) On the agenda is a Halloween costume party and a DJ spinning Halloween themed songs and all your favourite hits! Tickets are $30 per person ($40 at the door) and available at SCAR adoption events or at Pet Valu locations: McDougall Street, Roundhouse Centre, Essex, and Huron Church Road. For further details check: SCARescue.org; email: info@scarescue.org or call 256-6565. Nov. 6: Windsor’s premiere food and art event, the 6th annual “Artilicious,” takes place at Caesars Windsor, Augustus Ballroom,

377 Riverside Drive East from 5 to 8 p.m. to benefit The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter with emcees Dan Macdonald and Kara Ro. Sample unique and delicious cuisine from participating local eateries and finish off your meal with a little something sweet and a McCafé coffee! “Artilicious” also offers guests the opportunity to shop local artisan vendors showcasing their unique, quality, handmade works of art, just in time for the holiday season. Tickets are $25 (food included) if purchased by Nov. 2 or $30 at the door. Children 10 and under are not charged to enter. Advanced tickets can be purchased online at: Kidney.ca/ WindsorEssex or by stopping by Nancy Johns Gallery & Framing (cash only) at 4755 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor. Funds raised at this event support kidney-related research and programs and services for people living with kidney disease. For more info email: erika.muscat@kidney.ca or dial 977-9211. Nov. 8: “Jael’s Hope For Healing All You Can Eat Fundraising Dinner” at the Fogolar Furlan Club, 1800 North Service Road, in Windsor begins at 6 p.m. with dinner served at 7 p.m. followed by a concert. Admission is just $25 and you can help a Windsor native, who is an award winning songwriter, indie label founder, book author and speaker who has had an unusual and precarious stroke in the cerebellum. He needs experimental treatment that is not available in Canada to move him away from a dangerous precipice of further and possibly fatal events. The wonderful news is that through the four treatments he is seeking, there is also the high probability of a complete restoration of his ability. We urge the community to get behind this dinner and to fight not to lose this resource. Jael is also the father of 12 wonderful children in a non-blended family, many still at home. More volunteers are needed at many levels still so contact Pero Kovacevic to see how you can help by emailing: perokovacevic@gmail.com or calling 791-7910. Nov. 9: Stigma Enigma presents Jordin Tootoo, the first Inuk player in history to be drafted by the NHL and bestselling author of “All The Way: My Life On Ice” as the guest speaker for its “Mingle For Maryvale” at Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. and features live music, a delicious dinner and prizes in support of Maryvale Adolescent and Family Services. Tickets are $150. For more information log on to: StigmaEnigma.ca or call

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Maryvale, 258-0484 or Dr. Patrick Smith, 819-1119. Nov. 10: The 25th annual “Jingle Bell, Run, Walk & Wheel” held at Ken Knapp Ford in Essex starts at 10 a.m. with proceeds to support people with intellectual disabilities for Community Living Essex County. To register and for more details, go to their website: CommunityLivingEssex.org or phone 776-6483 ext. 246. Nov. 13: Windsor Firefighters “Chilifest” 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor with all proceeds to the Windsor Professional Firefighters Benefit Fund. Sparky’s Toy Drive donation box on site. Purchase your $8 ticket in advance at any Motor City Community Credit Union location or the Windsor Fire Headquarters, 815 Goyeau Street. Tickets are $10 at the door. Read more about this event by visiting: WindsorFirefighters.org/chilifest or calling Jeremy, 819-3806. Nov. 14: The Salvation Army presents the “Hope in the City Luncheon” at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue beginning at 11:45 a.m. and ending at 1:30 p.m. with Keynote Speaker, Rosita Hall. To purchase your $30 ticket, email: shannon_wise@can.salvationarmy.org; log on to: HopeInTheCityWindsor.ca or dial 719-0432. Nov. 15: The 22nd annual “Biz X Awards Gala” (by invite only) at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. If you are a 2019 Biz X Award nominee, save the date as invites to the 24 final winners go out in the mail early November. Go to: BizXmagazine.com to learn more about the awards, rules and to read the big November/December edition! Nov. 22: The 22nd annual “Cops Care for Kids Fashion Show & Silent Auction” presented by the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation takes place 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 join the Ontario Provincial Police and LaSalle Police Service for another exceptional show and event. The evening of fashion and fanfare includes many local community and civic leaders and feature models from all police services, elected officials, children, and youth wearing collections from Essex County’s finest retailers including many from Devonshire Mall. The event also features a welcome reception, entertainment, a delicious meal prepared by the Ciociaro Club, silent auction items and raffles for terrific prizes. Admission is $75 or a table of 10 for $675. Questions? Email: info@wecaf.on.ca; refer to: WECAF.on.ca or phone 252-1171 ext 3360.

Cover Story And Photos (unless marked) By Dave Hall

Raise Your Hands Up In The Air For Small Business

Photo courtesy of RawPixel.com.

Plus The Big Smoke On Area Vape Shops

mall business is the economic engine that drives local economies across Canada — and the Windsor Essex region is no exception. Small businesses can be found here in a host of different sectors, from manufacturing to hospitality and from the service sector to agriculture and technology. Whether they have a physical location or operate solely online, it is important consumers support local companies and business owners every time they need a product or service. Traditionally, in October, we celebrate “Small Business Month” to show our appreciation to the small business leaders who have run

companies for many years, as well as new start-ups popping up in the local business world. Local entrepreneurs, who started their businesses with little more than a dream, are also recognized during this month with a special week-long celebration. This is an initiative of the Business Development Bank of Canada, during which the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre, a division of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation, stages its 5th annual “W.E. (Windsor Essex) Shop Local Show”. “This show has become incredibly B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

important for our local businesses because it gives them a chance for exposure to a wider audience,” explains Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director of the Small Business Centre. “Nearly all of them have their own brick-and-mortar locations, but bringing them all together under one roof will provide them with a chance to display their products to hundreds of people at once.” This year’s “W.E. Shop Local Show” is expected to include more than 50 local vendors and takes place October 24 between 5 and 9 p.m. at the Fogolar Furlan Club, 1800 North Service Road in Windsor.

Among the vendors at this year’s show are: Little Food Foods, Dressed By An Olive, Red Lantern Coffee Company, Pelee Island Winery, Nidaas Fine Foods, Ruscom Maple Products, Papa D’s Hot Sawce, Whiskeyjack Boutique, Culture Shock Jewelry, Tagged It Paper Co., HotHive Branding and Design Studio, Witch and Whimsy, Little Sheep Yarn Boutique, Corporal 4 Life Apparel, SweetLegs, Dave’s Woodworking, Stepping Out Fashion Boutique, Peekabloom Baby Accessories, Southwest Shores, The Dandelion Shop, Emerson Supply Co. and Smelly Wellness Aromatherapy. (Note: for a complete list of vendors and more information on the show, refer to: WeShopLocalShow.com). According to Statistics Canada, there are 20,000 businesses in Windsor and Essex County and 85 percent are classified as small or micro businesses with fewer than 10 employees, but they remain a huge part of the economy across the area. “There’s a place for all sizes of businesses from small two-person shops to big box stores,” says DeMarco. “But, it’s the small businesses that shape the fabric of our community and they are the ones that help grow our economy.” She mentions, “As an example, we have a fantastic food and restaurant sector in

Windsor with a vast variety of ethnicallydiverse restaurant options and we can attribute all of that to small entrepreneurs who took a chance by opening their own business.” All of these local companies, and many others, started as a dream, but turning that dream into reality can be a challenge. One of the major impediments to small business growth and success is access to start-up and ongoing capital. This is where the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) enters the picture as a flexible, non-demand lender that provides peace of mind to small entrepreneurs. “We are able to provide working capital on a more flexible and favourable basis than the chartered banks,” explains Celso Oliveira, Manager of the Business Centre at BDC (2485 Ouellette Avenue, Suite 200, Windsor). “We are also able to provide relief on principal payments, because we recognize that early start-ups often have cash-flow problems.” “In 2008, chartered banks started calling in loans simply because they were nervous about where the economy was headed, which caused a great many problems for small businesses,” says Oliveira. “But, we are a non-demand committed lender and we stick with our clients through good times and bad, which creates peace of mind and confidence.”

The BDC (celebrating 75 years) also provides financial planning advice and takes a cradle-to-grave approach when it comes to supporting small businesses and their owners. This year’s “BDC Small Business Week” runs from October 20 to 26 and celebrates a nation of entrepreneurs and the changing face of Canadian entrepreneurship. View: BDC.ca/sbw to see a list of events. DeMarco mentions that her organization and the BDC are working closely together on some common files to help local entrepreneurs launch their businesses with as much help, support and advice as they can provide. The assistance generally comes in the form of helping write business plans, marketing and accounting advice and helping with access to start-up capital. “We’ve seen them change over time,” says Oliveira of small businesses. “We’ve seen them succeed. Join us as we celebrate Canadian entrepreneurs and explore the key factors driving their growth.” Locally, small business owners come in all shapes and sizes from many different demographic groups and industries. One of the fastest-growing small sectors, given a boost by changing federal legislation regarding the legal use of cannabis and its accessories, are vape shops, which

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B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

sell e-juices, e-cigarettes, vaporizers and other accessories related to the use of cannabis products. Despite health issues raised mostly in the United States, where Michigan has already banned flavoured e-juices, local vape shops seem to be thriving. Selling e-juices, which can help people quit smoking, to anyone under the age of 19 is illegal in the same way that selling tobacco and alcohol to those under 19 is illegal. But, where this vaping regulation sometimes comes unstuck is the fact that some of these products are available at convenience stores and gas stations. Specialty vape shops have to be licenced by the provincial government and one of the criteria is that 85 percent of sales have to come from juices, e-cigarettes, vaporizers and related accessories. Anyone under the age of 19 is forbidden from entering a specialty vape shop. There are as many as two dozen stores in the Windsor and Essex County region offering such products and what follows is a small cross-section.

Nekkid Monk Vape Shop

There are five stores operating under the Nekkid Monk umbrella, including a corporate store in London and franchises in Windsor, St. Thomas and two more in London. Business owner Bill Thibodeau says he launched his first store five years ago on a shoestring budget and believes he was fortunate to get in on the ground floor. “We created a small brand and when the industry expanded, we were ready to be pulled along with it,” he comments. “We sell one product and it’s designed to help people quit smoking. We sell an affordable e-liquid and we have never strayed into other products.” Thibodeau says his company manufactures its own brand of e-liquids and he believes that allows him to sell at a lower price than many competitors. Local franchise owner David Adamgbo, who opened up shop in the summer at 6640 Tecumseh Road East, sells vaporizers for juices and cannabis — but no product — just accessories. “We’re getting customers at all ages from age 19 on up,” he adds. “All people trying to quit smoking.” Despite health concerns voiced recently by Health Canada about the effects of vaping, Thibodeau believes his products are safer than tobacco. “It’s not better than not vaping, but it’s 95 to 97 percent safer than smoking so there is a net health improvement,” he claims. Thibodeau says Health Canada’s studies measure the effects of vaping on people who don’t smoke rather than the positive effects of

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David Adamgbo is the local owner of a Nekkid Monk Vape Shop franchise, which opened just three months ago. Adamgbo was a cook at a local restaurant when he decided he wanted more control over his future by opening his own business.

people quitting smoking and choosing vaping products instead. “The industry is an easy target right now, but 90 percent of our customers are coming to us from smoking and reporting successes in quitting smoking,” he adds. The local Nekkid Monk store is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. See: NekkidMonk.com to learn more about their history and shop online!

Vape On

Jeff Seremack, who opened Vape On four years ago, says business has been growing and that people seeking to quit smoking come from all demographics and walks of life. “I smoked for almost 30 years and I quit smoking as soon as I started vaping,” says Seremack. The amount of cigarettes people smoked before considering vaping, is taken into account when Seremack recommends juices with different nicotine levels. “I need people to be honest about how much they smoke, otherwise the nicotine levels in the juices they choose won’t be as effective,” says Seremack who co-owns the shop with Marcel Lynch. With three employees including Brigham Shearon and Mark Murphy, Vape On also sells vaporizers and pipes, but no actual cannabis products. “I find more older people are coming into the store to check out what we have now that what we offer has gone more mainstream,” explains Seremack. The store offers upwards of 120 different flavours with the fruit varieties being among the most popular. On the health front, Seremack believes his products are 100 percent safe unless people start adding other ingredients. “It has nothing to do with our juices,” he stresses. The store is located at 6048 Tecumseh

the chemicals in tobacco and the tar that are unhealthy and lighting them all on fire doesn’t help from a health standpoint.” Taylor acknowledges there may be issues with people using black-market products but vapers who buy from legitimate sources have little to fear.

Employee Brigham Shearon, left and Co-owner Jeff Seremack sell 120 different flavours of juices at Vape On in Windsor. Seremack opened the store four years ago and sells exclusively Canadian products.

Road East in Windsor and is open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. More details can be found at: StayCalmVapeOn.ca.

E-Liberation

Loire Taylor started vaping as a way to quit smoking and about four years ago, she decided to start imparting her knowledge about the healthy effects of vaping by selling e-juices from her home. “I saw a gap in the market here in Kingsville

and quickly decided to get into it on a full time basis,” says Taylor, who now operates the E-Liberation store at 47 King Street East. “My goal is to help people understand the products, provide them with information and educational items about vaping and help them pursue a healthier lifestyle by not smoking.” Taylor also wants to debunk what she calls the “demonization of vaping.” “Studies in the United Kingdom have shown that vaping is 95 percent or higher better than smoking,” she explains. “It’s

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Loire Taylor recently celebrated her third anniversary at E-Liberation, her store on Kingsville’s main street. She started by working out of her home before she decided business was good enough to warrant a bricks-andmortar location. Photo courtesy of Loire Taylor.

Taylor mentions she and fellow vape shop owners had to obtain licences as specialty vape shop businesses, but convenience stores and gas stations, which sell similar products, didn’t have to jump through any bureaucratic hoops. “As for the future, I’d like to see these products taken out of the hands of convenience store and gas station owners,” she says. “We had to register and we should be able to sell these products exclusively.”

Taylor’s store sells hundreds of varieties of flavoured juices, e-cigarettes, vaporizers and other accessories. It’s open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 7 p.m. and Monday and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. (Closed Wednesday and Sunday). E-Liberation can be found on Facebook, but currently has no website.

Corevapes

Randy Couture was in Arizona a few years ago when he spotted a woman using what turned out to be an e-cigarette. Intrigued, he asked her about the health benefits and was quickly convinced it was something he was interested in trying. “I lived in Amherstburg at the time and I dropped into Vaporama and got started,” he recalls. “I had smoked for 33 years and I quit the same day I started vaping.” It worked so well for him, Couture says, that he decided to open his own store, Corevapes, a little over a year ago at 12042 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh, to help other people quit smoking by switching to vaping.

Randy Couture, Owner of Corevapes in Tecumseh, smoked for 33 years before deciding to stop. He credits vaping, using flavoured juices and e-cigarettes, with changing his lifestyle.

“It’s not for everyone, but it is 95 percent less harmful that conventional cigarettes and it allows you to rid yourself of your nicotine addiction,” he claims. “But, rule number one is if you don’t smoke, don’t vape.” Couture admits that it’s not magic and that vapers have to make a commitment to

quitting smoking and that while it might not work the first time, it will eventually, if you persevere. Couture’s liquids range from zero percent nicotine all the way to 50 milligrams. It’s the amount of smoking an individual does that determines what level of nicotine would work best from them. Corevapes is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Couture currently does not have a website for the business, but his store and more information can be found on: Facebook.com/CorevapesCanada.

Big Dog Vapory

For owner Kirt Klym, it took him five days from when he started vaping to go from two packs of cigarettes a day to not smoking tobacco at all. “I wish I had started earlier, but once I realized how effective it was, I wanted to help other people quit smoking,” says Klym. “Quitting smoking is very difficult, but if you are determined then this works very well.” Klym says he spent some years as a truck driver and it was “the hand-to-mouth action I found hard to drop, but now when I do it, it’s a lot healthier. I feel better and while I’m biased, I do think it can help people.” His products are 95 percent Canadian and some are white label products, which allows Klym to place his own Big Dog brand on them. He also sells e-cigarettes and vaporizers as well as more than a 100 flavours of juices. Klym, who also operates Kent County Canine, a dog-boarding and grooming business, has a company website at: BigDogVapory.com, but requires proof of age before he ships anything. “I do a large amount of due diligence before I ship,” he asserts. Big Dog Vapory, located at 8 Talbot Street North in Essex, is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.,

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Kirt Klym, owner of Big Dog Vapory in Essex, poses in his store on pedestrian-friendly Talbot Street North. Klym opened his store almost three years ago after he decided to help people stop smoking by vaping instead.

Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

Vaporama

Paul Dinunzio opened Vaporama, which is now located at 243 Simcoe Street in Amherstburg, nine years ago after he was laid off from a local distillery. “I’d been a smoker for 31 years and after vaping for six months, I had absolutely no desire to go back to cigarettes,” he says. “I started out by ordering juice online from some Chinese distributors and then decided there was a hole in the local market and with bills to pay, I decided to open my own business.” His store and an adjoining stock room are filled with shelves and display cabinets of juices — more than 6,200 flavours — as well as e-cigarettes, vaporizers, rolling papers and other accessories. Dinunzio brought his son Ryan into the business two years ago and the pair claims business has never been better. “We have a great staff and I think our customers like having a familiar face serve them every time they come into the store,” Ryan states. Ryan says that with major tobacco companies such as Imperial Tobacco and Rothmans Benson and Hedges now offering either e-cigarettes or recommending other smoke-free products that the voices opposing vaping will eventually die down.

Peach, Cucumber Mint, Kiwi Pear, Sour Grape and Passion Fruit. And with thousands of flavours available on the market, there’s clearly something for every taste. NOTE: For more information on the risks of vaping refer to the website: Canada.ca/en/ health-canada/services/smoking-tobacco/ vaping/risks.html.

Start And Grow Your Successful Small Biz

Paul Dinunzio, left, and son Ryan Dinunzio, boast of having 6,200 individual flavours at Vaporama in Amherstburg. Paul opened the store nine years ago and brought son Ryan on-board two years ago.

“There is a great deal of money at stake for both big tobacco and governments if vaping grows even bigger,” says Ryan. “I believe it’s a healthier choice because ingesting anything combustible into your lungs can’t be healthy.” Vaporama is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 pm. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, on: VaporamaVapes.com, you can purchase items 24 hours a day!

Product Information On E-juices

E-juices come in a variety of flavours with prices ranging from $15 to $18 for 60 millilitre bottles. There are also e-cigarettes and vaporizers available at most vape shops, ranging from $50 to more than $150 depending upon the accessories, which accompany the e-cigarettes and vaporizers. Among the more popular flavours at many of the shops are Vanilla Bean, Apple Cooler,

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If you are looking to open your own small business enterprise in the near future, whether it be a vape shop like those profiled here, or a restaurant, bakery, beauty salon or online clothing shop or whatever else you can imagine, the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre (SBC) is here to help! Open since 1992, their team of advisors have assisted entrepreneurs and business owners with business plan support, research assistance, mentoring, access to professionals and more . . . it is a one stop source for guidance from concept to startup to the early growth stage of a business. Visit Sabrina DeMarco, SBC Executive Director and her staff at their new downtown Windsor location at 119 Chatham Street West, Unit #100, or you can also go to their satellite office: 39 Maidstone Avenue East in Essex. Information is also available online at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com.

The 4th Annual “Black Tie Tail Gate” Fundraiser August 16, 2019 at Beach Grove Golf & Country Club, 14134 Riverside Drive East, Windsor

Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left. 1. The cowboys and cowgirls of the Windsor Essex (W.E.) Care for Kids Foundation and the Windsor Spitfires Foundation once again joined forces for this country chic fundraiser headlined by Nashville country music star Jake Maurer. This year, the “Black Tie Tail Gate” committee members — Ashley Weeres (Operations Manager, W.E. Care For Kids); Mike Brain (President, W.E. Care for Kids) and his wife Shannon; Bob (Windsor Spitfires) and Jenn Boughner and Brian and Lisa Schwab (The Lisa & Brian Schwab Foundation and Cypher Systems Group, “Big Guns” event sponsor) — raised approximately $100,000 at this western summer shindig. Hee haw . . . that’s a whole lot of bucks for the community!

2 2. Over 300 attended the fundraiser including this cool group chillin’ by the pool: Victor and Jeanne Eid, Michelle Rauti, Darcie Valente (Director, W.E. Care for Kids), Peter Valente, Dr. David and Henrietta Adekoya, Sheri Radovich and Melissa Bello. 3. Stephanie and Barry Zekelman, pictured with their guests Joe and Alessia Leoni, have been extremely busy this year personally attending community events and financially contributing to many worthy causes through their foundation. The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Foundation was a “Bonanza” sponsor for the 2019 “Black Tie Tail Gate.”

B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there”

4. Another “Bonanza” sponsor, Omega Tool Corporation, in attendance was represented by Dave Cecchin, President of Omega Tool and his wife Camille, along with their guests Monica and Paul Pecoraro. Paul is Operations Manager at Guspro with three divisions under its umbrella — Blademaster, Sunnen Products Distribution, and Guspro Heat Cleaning Ovens.

The Windsor Essex (W.E.) Care for Kids Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of children in the region through fundraising initiatives. Since 1997 it has raised more than $8.2 million in support of equipment for paediatric programs and services. Learn more at: WeCareForKids.org.

5. Under the big top was an impressive presence from Amico Properties — Infrastructure and Design Build, which was well represented by: Brian Iacobelli, Alberto and Victoria Vozza, Elena and Spyro Georgakopoulos, Vince Bonadonna, Chantelle Amicone, Tony Youssef, Ginger Ciacelli, Derrick Amicone and Justin Amicone.

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The Windsor Spitfires Foundation operates under the motto “Enhancing Lives, Improving Our Community.” It has raised and donated $498,760 back to local charitable groups and community service agencies around Windsor and Essex County since its inception in 2006. Find further details online: WindsorSpitfiresFoundation.ca.

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Program (gender separated dorm rooms with 103 beds, transitional accommodations, and separate accommodations for youth under 18 years of age), Phoenix Recovery program, Food Bank, Fitness Centre, and medical and dental care facilities. Story And Photo By Joe McParland • The DM is a registered Canadian charity under the direction of a current 13 member governance board of directors. n the past year or so, two galactic These facts are presented here in short Its legal name is the United Church sized battles have surfaced in form so you can make your own decisions. Downtown Mission Windsor Inc. downtown Windsor pitting the NIMBYs • The DM originally opened its doors in • Ron Dunn is the DM Executive Director, (Not In My Back Yard) against the YIMBYs Central United Church at 628 Ouellette holding the post since 2015, having first (Yes In My Back Yard). Avenue in 1972, serving coffee and served as Director of Communications and On the one hand, in one battle, a group doughnuts to about 28 people a day. Today, Community Relations from 2011. of Windsor YIMBYs are insisting that they serve over 900 meals a day in total • 23% of the guests at the DM have lived Windsor’s new acute care hospital be built (breakfast, lunch and dinner), seven days in Windsor less than a year. in the city core — and not at the selected a week. • DM currently employs 65 full-time and part-time staff in the downtown County Road 42 location; and on the other hand, in the second battle, the core with a volunteer base of NIMBYs are apoplectic over The almost 800. Downtown Mission of Windsor’s • Nearly every major city in (DowntownMission.com) purchase Canada locates their homeless of the Windsor Public Library mission/sanctuaries on accessible on Ouellette Avenue as their new main thoroughfares in the home. It’s this latter battle this downtown core. article addresses. But first, a few • Having outgrown their current personal disclosures. facilities, the board directed a First, I have been a lifelong search for larger accommodations. supporter of The Downtown They looked at the vacant office Mission of Windsor (DM). Second, tower at 880 Ouellette Avenue, I am one of many residents whose immediately east of WPL, but eyes rolled back with incredulity found it lacking in load capacity and skepticism when I heard that and structural worthiness. the Windsor Public Library Central Ron Dunn, Executive Director of The Downtown Mission of Windsor, stands on • The DM looked at the closed-up Branch (WPL) had been sold to the rooftop of their 875 Ouellette Avenue building and looks across the street at Bowlero building and property on the DM for their new eventual the Windsor Public Library, soon to be their new home. Tecumseh Road West in Windsor, home. And my third disclosure is I am the • In 1986 the DM moved to the Volcano which would have met most of their needs, Windsor resident whose beloved greyhound, Restaurant at 157 Wyandotte Street West, but the owner wouldn’t sell. Vici, was attacked and killed April 26, 2019 where it remained for 16 years, until moving • The DM explored seven or eight in June 2001 three buildings south into on Ouellette Avenue by the dangerous dog downtown area properties, but none were owned by a homeless man and occasional Temple Baptist Church at 664 Victoria for sale or cost effective. Included in Avenue. their search was the vacant Green Shield DM guest. • In May 2016 the DM purchased the building at McDougall Street and Giles Given these disclosures, I am not four-storey office building at 875 Ouellette Blvd., old hotel properties, as well as vacant “weighing in” one way or another on the Avenue, directly across from the WPL. land in the downtown core. DM move, but simply presenting you facts It currently houses their Wellness Centre • The DM board determined that WPL I learned from my interview with Ron consisting of the Sanctuary (shelter) property represented the DM’s best Dunn, Executive Director of the DM.

Your Mission — To Decide

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opportunity, dollar for dollar, for a solidly constructed city core facility. • After the City of Windsor decided they were looking for a new location for the main branch of the WPL, the DM approached the city to purchase the building and the parking lot east of the building (107 spots). They were two separate, yet related offers, since the parking lot is under City of Windsor control, but the WPL is under the WPL Board control. • An agreement of $3.6 million was reached, including $400,000 for the municipal parking lot. WPL also purchased the shuttered restaurant on Dufferin Avenue, just north of the WPL. It has been transformed into a virtual 11,000 sq. ft walkin freezer to accommodate the weekly haul of fresh produce from the county. • When completed, the new facility will grow to approximately 102,000 sq. ft from its 40,000 sq. ft at the church location, and 58,000 sq. ft at 875 Ouellette. Everything will be under one roof — Administrative offices, food pantry, clothing store, Wellness, Enterprise and Distress Centre programs will occupy the main floor; the Sanctuary Program will locate on the second floor with room for 125 beds for the guests. Also, there will be 34 small “apartments” (300 sq. ft) to assist those transitioning from homelessness to self-sufficiency, on the second floor on both the south and north sides, • The current north and south driveways, beside the building, will be closed. Entrance to the building will be from a privacy fence enclosed walkway from Dufferin Avenue along the south side. The existing north driveway will also be enclosed behind privacy fencing and will be the guest’s courtyard. • The type of fencing fronting Ouellette Avenue will be a decision arrived at by the DM and the City of Windsor. Concepts being considered are landscape berms with a concrete “living wall” with greenery and foliage to afford the guests their privacy from Ouellette Avenue pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and to mitigate the concerns of area residents. So, my friends, I leave it up to you to decide how you feel about the DM and their planned relocation to the WPL property. The homeless situation is not going away until a concerted effort is made by all three levels of government to enact serious measures to address and alleviate the poverty, addiction and mental health afflicting our cities. Until they do, we will have the homeless populating our downtown city and residential streets — and they WILL grow in number — especially if they have no place of refuge. So, what say you? B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

portfolio corner

Baked Into The Pie By Steven Mayo

Did you hear? There’s supposed to be a recession. The stock market, and media, was certainly front loading this possibility in late August into September, with its recent drop. Even though we have low interest rates, low unemployment numbers and healthy U.S. and Canadian consumers, the news is all about recession, American President Donald Trump’s tweets and China. Unfortunately, the markets, as usual, want to connect the dots — if the economy is slowing down, we therefore, are going to have a recession. This has happened before in 2011 and 2015, but in both cases a recession did not occur and the stock market was quick to adjust back up. To reinforce the recession risk, economic pundits continue to rely on the inverted yield curve, which essentially states that if the two year bond yield is higher than the 10 year yield, this foretells an upcoming recession.

That may have been reliable 10, 15, or 30 years ago, but in today’s world of very low interest rates, and now negative interest rates in some countries, this yard stick, to me, holds less weight. Here’s what the analyst at Credit Suisse has to say about recession risk: “Historically, yield curve provides mixed signals. The yield curve has inverted prior to each U.S. recession over the past 50 years. Unfortunately, the lead time between inversion and the onset of the subsequent economic contraction (14 to 34 months) has been quite inconsistent, making this a less useful signal. Importantly, equities rose 1516% on average in the 18 months following inversions, with a range of -11% to +30%.” Remember, it was only eight months ago the market was worried about rising interest rates. Now they’re lower. Out of this discussion, we are back to questioning, has the market over-reacted, over-analyzed, or are there other factors

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involved with the recent market decline? The answer is, probably all three. Once again, we see that markets decline quicker than they go up. In the meantime, many U.S. and Canadian companies increased their dividends. This confidence by management teams is clearly reflecting a different view about the future. As we enter the fall period, this bull market has seen heightened volatility and seems to be unloved. This gives me confidence that many companies still have room to rally back up. Concerns about the world will always be with us and because of this, I believe there is one thing truly “baked into the pie” — that being permanently low interest rates. It’s time to be a true investor. We wrap up with this appropriate quote by Martha Stewart: “So the pie isn’t perfect? Cut it into wedges. Stay in control, and never panic.” Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Director, and Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

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TECH BY TES

Building A Better Business By Adam Castle

hat does a typical “tech” business look like in the year 2019? What immediately comes to mind might be Amazon or Google. Nation sized behemoths that seem to grow by the minute. In Canada, small business continues to be king (and queen!) making up over 98% of all enterprises, which equates to over 1.1 million small and medium-sized enterprises. If you’re one of them, you may not consider yourself a “tech” company, but I believe that every business is now in some way just that. The reason is simple. How we connect to our customers has evolved and leveraging technology has become the most efficient way to make those connections. You don’t need to build a new business to keep up with the times; you need to develop a smarter one. Below is a list of the five hottest trends making up the new normal for business around the globe. Building your better business starts here.

more intelligent, and the smartest small businesses are cashing in by creating custom skills and actions for smart home systems to carry out. For the DIY lover, Google and Amazon both have easy stepby-step instruction manuals. For those a little more tech-unsavvy, a quick web search pulls up dozens of companies with the know-how to build these custom skills for you.

1. AI chatbots — Customers expect a lot from you, including 24/7 answers to their most burning questions. As hard as we try, staying awake at all hours isn’t practical. While chatbot technology isn’t new, it’s now easier than ever to employ on websites and popular messaging services. Check out: Snatchbot.me for convenient, no-code solutions to creating a chatbot of your very own.

4. eCommerce — Brick-and-mortar retail may be experiencing some challenges, but click-and-mortar retail that offers customers the best of off and online shopping is booming. Physical retail space is morphing into experience and education centres, designed to connect with well-researched consumers looking for more than just an opportunity to shop. Luckily, Canadian giant Shopify is an exceptional partner with solutions powering business around the globe. Their easy to adopt Point-Of-Sale system works both in-store and online and is sure to please even the savviest of customers.

2. The Internet of Things ( IoT) — “Hey Google, I need you to reorder my favourite…” Smart homes continue to get

3. Cloud Solutions — To many “The Cloud” is still very much an enigma. Cloud solutions, from storage to software, serve very different functions with one common goal. They are all designed to give you complete access to your digital tools and data anywhere, anytime. Microsoft, Google, and Dropbox all offer a helpful variety of products. There are also more robust enterprise solutions that allow you to set up private cloud servers for increased security. I suggest looking at the Western Digital lineup at: MyCloud.com.

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5. Cyber Security — Underneath all of this fantastic technology should be a rocksolid foundation of security. As business evolves to collect and create more data than ever before (seriously, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data a day!) keeping all that data safe should be one of your top priorities. I hate to break it to you, but your antivirus software isn’t enough. Cyber security isn’t any one thing, but a series of systems all working together. For this, seek the advice of local experts and attend informative workshops. When it comes to cyber security, failing to plan is most certainly planning to fail. Getting “techie” doesn’t need to be scary or daunting as there are many local resources to help you with the process. Coming up on October 22, 2019 during #TechWeekYQG, the annual “Tech Show” is an excellent opportunity to explore new tech to fuel your growth. As well, the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre is currently taking applications for the Digital Main Street program, designed to help business take on their very own digital transformation. Use tech as your foundation, and there’s no limit to how high you can grow! Learn more about “Tech WeekYQG” at: WEtechAlliance.com/techweekyqg and the Digital Main Street program at: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com/dms. Tech Bytes is powered by WEtech Alliance (Wetech-Alliance.com). This month’s columnist Adam Castle has spent the last seven years working in various capacities throughout the Windsor Essex Economic Development Ecosystem, specializing in business development and growth across multiple sectors with companies of all sizes. Adam is a highly-driven Business Advisor and has assisted hundreds of ventures in the region, including growing his own company to 65 employees, and launching one of Southern Ontario’s first Social Media platforms.

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOR THOUGHT

Antonino’s Original Pizza 4350 Howard Avenue, Windsor By David Clark

estled at the edge of the city on Howard Avenue, a familiar name, Antonino’s Original Pizza, is now situated next door to its original location in a new building, opened on March 12, 2019. A multi-award winning three store chain (and growing), with roots going back to 1959, Antonino “Tony” Ciaravino introduced the first pizzeria to South Windsor, offering a thin, crispy crust with a flavourful sauce. A lot of special ingredients went into the old recipe and were ready to be passed down. In 1999, after a 20 year absence from the Windsor pizza scene, Antonino’s son Joe Ciaravino and his mother Vita (Milana), decided to open a new South Windsor location. Joe named it in honour of his father — one of Windsor’s pizza pioneers. Joe started learning the pizza business at a young age. Just how early? His mother would tell him she placed his playpen next to the pizza table! “I guess you could say I started learning the business before I could walk,” recalls Ciaravino with a chuckle. Many years later — and gathering plenty of awards along the way — the South Windsor pizzeria, as well as the LaSalle (6535 Malden Road) and Tecumseh (1695 Manning Road) franchises, have become wildly popular. Antonino’s has won the National “Top Choice” Award for “Top Pizzeria” in Windsor for 2017, 2018 and 2019. Also, the company earned the 2012 “Perfect Pick-up Palace for Foodies” Biz X Award. Previously in 2011 Antonino’s celebrated a win with the

Joe Ciaravino, Owner/Franchisor presents Antonino’s newest gourmet pizza, the Thick Crust Square Napolitana with sliced Roma tomatoes, Mozzarella, Parmesan and Romano cheeses and fresh Basil. Photo by David Clark.

Doesn’t the staff and Joe look great in their best duds at Antonino’s on Howard? Photo courtesy of Symchyshyn Photographic.

Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce “Business Excellence Award” for “Small Company of the Year.” And in 2019, they were recently honoured with “The Best of #YQG” Award for “Best Pizzeria” in Windsor. With that old-world look, the new pizzeria on Howard is adorned with Detroit reclaimed brick, inside and out. The interior is rustic in appearance and the trademark green, white, and red awning, in the colours of the Italian flag, is a welcoming feature outside. The building was designed by architect Settimo Vilardi of Archon Architects and built by the Rosati Group. In the kitchen, six pizza ovens (they added two more!) dominate the area, allowing pizzas to go out of there at a record pace. With the extra hardware in the kitchen, wait times have been drastically reduced. New at Antonino’s South Windsor — seating! “We have 20 seats inside and 20 on the patio,” Joe proudly states. “We’ve gone from a 780 square foot store to almost 2,000 square feet!” So let’s get to the menu now . . . “We focus on what we do best… and that is pizza,” Joe emphasizes. “We have a generous supply of toppings to choose from, as well as salads and desserts.” Top sellers at Antonino’s include the Original Super with cheese, sausage, bacon, mushroom and green pepper, a Windsor favourite. The traditional Pepperoni and the Deluxe with cheese, sausage, mushroom B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

and green pepper are both crowd pleasers. The Sicilian and the new Thick Crust Square Napolitana pizza (see photo on this page) are foodie favourites. Similar to a Panzerotti, Antonino’s offers a baked Calzone loaded with toppings. Appetizers like the Bread Sticks and the Braided Garlic Bread keep the customers coming back. The South Windsor location is currently testing some new offerings with gelato, beer and wine, and even espresso to go with their authentic Sicilian Cannoli. “If these items do well at our new South Windsor location, we’ll see about introducing them in Tecumseh and LaSalle,” Joe comments. Antonino’s prides itself on putting quality first. “That’s why we don’t offer traditional delivery,” indicates Joe, who goes on to explain delivery bags trap steam that makes pizza soggy. “We do offer delivery, not using delivery bags, for advance party orders of $75 or more.” When asked how large an order Antonino’s can accommodate, Joe responds, “Try us! We once fed the entire staff at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital out of our old South Windsor location and more recently, our South Windsor and LaSalle locations supplied ‘Bluesfest’ VIPs with 140 king size pizzas on opening weekend.” Whether you’re feeding hundreds or just crave a slice of great pizza, view more information at: OriginalPizza.ca.

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PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN By Chelsea Humphreys

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

KATIE GAJDACS W

A “Hag” Always In Good Spirits

ith the new age movement on the rise, Katie Gajdacs provides a space for shopping and education for the Windsor Essex community. Gajdacs, an Odyssean Wiccan Priestess, owns The Hag Shop (1185 Tecumseh Road East, which opened in December 2017) and Aussie Graphics Printing Group Inc. (opened in Toronto in 2007, but relocated to Windsor in January 2016) located at 1187 Tecumseh Road East. According to the company’s website, the word “hag” means a woman considered to be knowledgeable in matters such as herbal healing, magic charms, or other traditional lore. “We provide an accepting environment for residents of Windsor and the area who practice, dabble, or are exploring alternate faiths,” Gajdacs explains. “The store provides tools, gifts, and personal adornment to enhance and practice earth-based faiths.” The business has a large client base who are interested in new paths, skills, or knowledge in things such as crystal magic, colour theory, candle magic or runes, just to name a few. The most popular items sold are gift items like jewellery and crystals. And Gajdacs points out that their free monthly classes, held at the shop, are very popular. “We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the Craft,” she expresses. “Our classes and rituals are free to the public and are designed to teach those who have interest. We proudly uphold the Wiccan Rede and live by its rules. We are here to help and motivate our Pagan Brothers and Sisters in this beautiful town.” When Gajdacs was a child her godmother introduced her to the psychic world and though she always had vivid dreams about those who had passed over, it was the personal trauma she suffered that pushed her into this field. She has studied many different spiritual practices and religions since 1986, such as card reading, mediumship and Jewish mysticism. “I continued learning anywhere I could,” says Gajdacs, “taking classes in Lilydale (a small town in the state of New York) under the well-known spiritualist Elaine Thomas. I continued expanding my knowledge in trans-mediumship at the Springdale Spiritual Temple with Rev. Doreen Bald for an additional two years. Once my skills were honed, I travelled and participated in many psychic fairs across Ontario and it was during one of these fairs that I met an Odyssean Wiccan. My interest piqued and I eventually joined the Wiccan Church of Canada in 2006.” In 2015, she and her husband relocated to Windsor from Toronto to be closer to their daughter and grandchild. Professionally, she had worked as a printer, but had always dreamed of being able to work in a field

Katie Gajdacs runs The Hag Shack, which sells a wide variety of charms, pendants, crystals, crystal balls, spell candles and deity statues. Photo by Rod Denis.

deeply seated in her heart. When they found the double store front it gave her an opportunity to continue in the business that was stable while moving toward the dream she feels is her calling. “What sets The Hag Shack apart from others with similar businesses is my 33 years of training and education within various related fields,” she says. “I have a deep understanding and experience in mediumship, spiritualism, mysticism, and paganism so have a lot to teach and share.” While it’s tough being a woman in business, Gajdacs feels lucky the Wiccan community is fairly feminist, so she hasn’t faced some of the same blockades she has with her print shop. As well she mentions she is “very fortunate in having an extremely supportive husband who picks up the slack at home. This allows me to focus on The Hag Shack, its products, and most importantly my customers.” The advice Gajdacs gives other women is for them to trust themselves. She stresses the answer could be “yes” or “maybe,” but if you never ask, then the answer is always “no”. She also suggests female entrepreneurs reach out to other women in business, start their business small and only grow when they feel comfortable. For more information about Gajdacs, classes and the shop’s products, go online to: HagShack.com.

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XX FILES

Colautti Brothers Centennial Celebration MILESTONES Proudly Serving Windsor Essex Since 1919

1919-2019 By Dave Hall

It was 100 years ago when five Italian immigrants, who had left the old country in search of a better life for their families, found their way to Windsor and teamed up to buy a small storefront on Langlois Avenue and established Colautti Brothers Ltd., a small firm specializing in ornamental castings and mosaic tiles.

Antonio Colautti, John Colautti, Baldo Camilotto, John Costaperaria (Costa) and Angelo Collussi toiled night and day, gradually adding terrazzo installations, basement excavation and virtually anything else they could find in the way of construction projects in a booming border city such as Windsor. And growth was always part of the plan. Within 25 years, Colautti Brothers was one of the largest construction firms in Ontario with 500 workers, according to Tom Marshall, one of five current partners alongside President Peter Indelicato, David Nicodemo, Mario Vadori and Tony Balestrini. “It’s really a remarkable story,” says

Marshall, Chief Estimator and a 40 year veteran of the company now located at 2779 Howard Avenue. “They were all trained artisans and brought those old country skills with them to a new country with little more than a suitcase.” Over time, the company would build sewer projects for the City of Windsor, highway construction for the Province of Ontario, including a stretch of Highway 401, and tunnels for mining companies, Marshall notes. Marshall explains that by 1943, the company had outgrown its tiny space on Langlois and moved to 2490 McDougall Road in East Sandwich Township. They added hardwood flooring and

Back in 1924 Colautti Brothers founder Baldo Camilotto stands beside one of the first Colautti vehicles, a model T pickup truck.

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carpeting to an already expanding product line for customers throughout the region. By the 1970s, the company was ready for more changes, which led to Colautti Brothers becoming specialists in tile and flooring products and installation. In 1973, Camilottto’s son-in-law Bruno Nicodemo acquired the tile and flooring component of the business when the construction division was sold to Beaver Contractors, Marshall indicates. He kept the name Colautti Brothers and launched what has since become one of the largest tile and flooring companies in Southwestern Ontario. David Nicodemo, whose father Bruno passed away in 2001, is still active in the business. “There has always been a family component to the business,” comments Marshall. “And their craftsmanship has been passed along to many different generations in our company. It’s that history of workmanship which sets us apart from many of our competitors.” However, as much as the company has changed over the many decades since it was established, so have the products and services now being offered from a large showroom and working area on a 1.5 acre lot in central Windsor. “We’re always reinventing ourselves and adapting to the times as well as the requirements of our customers,” explains Indelicato, who has been with Colautti for 23 years. “I’d like to think I know a lot about the business, but I don’t know everything and we are constantly learning about products and processes in order to offer first-rate services to our clients.” And as is the case with many specialty products, what’s old is new again according to Marshall. “Many people are looking for that retro look these days and they’re looking for authentic mosaic tiling, which are truly pieces of art when done correctly,” states Marshall. “It can take hundreds of

–– • • 100 Year Colautti Brothers Anniversary Celebration • • –– hours to build something with the level of craftsmanship and artistry, which I believe sets us apart.” The company has many second and third generation workers, which is a testament to their loyalty. At one point, the company also had showrooms and workshops in Riverside, Sarnia, and Leamington, as well as on McDougall, but now it’s all consolidated under one roof.

Colautti Brothers founder Baldo Camilotto (left) is photographed during the 1920s chatting with a Ford Exec about terrazzo flooring in one of the labs at the Ford office in Windsor.

“We wanted to create a one-stop shop for our customers and we believe it’s more efficient for everyone to work out of one location,” Marshall says. The building on Howard is another one of Bruno Nicodemo’s legacies. “He built the place in 1980 just as Windsor was heading into a recession and at one point, we had just three employees because business was so tight,” Marshall adds. “Floor coverings are not necessities and if it’s a choice between paying the mortgage and buying food versus flooring, you know where the money will be spent.”

It’s Friday night in 1929 and the end of the shift. The boss, Baldo Camilotto, treats the men to a cold beer up on the roof of the Honourable W.C. Kennedy Collegiate as a reward for a good week’s work. Colautti installers completed all the terrazzo flooring and ceramic tile work when the school was built that year.

Marshall continues by stating, “There were days when nobody came in the store at all. But you keep working at it, you show up every day with your game face on and do the very best job you can for your customers.” B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

–– • • 100 Year Colautti Brothers Anniversary Celebration • • –– As a result, the company survived those difficult days and came out the other side stronger and more efficient. Regarding promotions, Indelicato believes that social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook and the company’s own website (Colautti.com) are components of the company’s marketing initiatives, but the best advertising is simply word-of-mouth. “It’s our biggest advertising tool,” says Indelicato. “We’re selling products to children and friends of long-time customers and that can only happen with positive reviews from existing customers.” Beyond a variety of products such as carpeting, hardwood, carpet tiles and linoleum, as well as granite, ceramic, quartz, quartzite, slate, marble and porcelain tiles in a variety of styles, designs and colours, Marshall expresses the company prides itself on its after-sales services. “All of our products have warranties, but we also have the discretion to make repairs outside of the warranty period, which our customers appreciate,” he points out. “Sometimes, you have to let the pennies go to bring in the dollars later.” On the industrial and commercial side of the business, Colautti has completed projects for local school boards, St. Clair College and the University of Windsor

Now fast forward to 2019 with employees/partners of Colautti Brothers from left: (Back Row) Tony Balestrini, Mike Sourenian, Tom Marshall and David Nicodemo. (Front Row) Lori Clarkson, Tamara Woods, Charlene Stoffle, Bianca Vermette and Peter Indelicato posing inside the Colautti Brothers store on Howard Avenue in Windsor. The business is celebrating its 100th birthday this year. Photo by Dave Hall.

and has developed strong partnerships with general contractors across the city. Residential clients used to make up 60 percent of the company’s business with industrial and commercial taking the rest, but it’s flipped now and commercial/ industrial leads the way with 60 percent. “It’s amazing to think it all started with a few guys coming over from Italy to follow their dreams and find a better life for their

CONGRATULATIONS

COLAUTTI BROTHERS MARBLE, TILE & CARPET FOR 100 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

Wishing you continued success!

R O T H M O S E Y. C O M

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children,” says Indelicato. “It’s a Windsor-built Canadian success story and it’s remarkable we have all kept it going for so long.” To pay tribute to their successful 100 year history the company hosts a gala at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts on October 26, 2019 for vendors, clients, customers and family/friends. Be sure to grab a copy of Biz X in January 2020 to see celebration photos from this event!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

A Little Window Dressing Goes A Long Way By Dave Halliday

nother long work day is over and there is nothing you enjoy more than relaxing in your sun room. Even when it is a bit cool outside, as it often gets at this time of the year, you can always count on your sanctuary to provide a warm, peaceful atmosphere. You admit that at times it can be a touch warmer than you desire and being in plain view of all the neighbours isn’t always the most desirable situation, but you’ve never been able to find just the right window coverings. To be honest the window coverings in most of the house have been there for years, so perhaps it’s time to update them. Fortunately for you, we at Biz X were able to explore some of the options associated with window coverings with the husband and wife team of Mark Dudfield and Kate Messent, Owners of Better Blinds and Drapery located at 2785 Howard Avenue in Windsor (on the web: BetterBlinds.ca). The company has provided window

coverings to the residents of Windsor Essex for the past 25 years. Mark and Kate have been at the helm since 2014. What does your company offer? “Custom North American made blinds, drapery, shutters as well as service and complementary design appointments,” states Messent with Dudfield adding, “We have a large modern showroom, motorization experts, and provide installation.” How can Better Blinds and Drapery assist the consumer in choosing the best window coverings for their needs? “We are a full-service custom window company and we take care of every detail from concept to install, including continued care in any required service for our clients,” indicates Dudfield. “Our blinds are North American made and our extensive collection of drapery fabric is sourced from Canadian mills, which is sewn locally in Windsor.” Beyond appearance, are there secondary benefits to installing new

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blinds and drapery in one’s home? “Energy savings are a key benefit,” Messent points out. “Coverings help keep rooms cool in summer and warm in winter.” So, besides the functionality of a window covering, can blinds and drapery assist in the appearance of a home? “Absolutely,” replies Messent. “Clients use window treatments to express their individual good taste, and match their existing décor. They provide a warm, finished look to a space and there are so many choices available.” Do you assist the client in choosing the blinds and drapery that are best for them? “We provide as much or as little assistance as our client requires. The majority of clients will take advantage of the fact that we have a large, modern showroom and will come to see the products at full scale,” comments Dudfield. “They can operate them (especially important with the many motorization options), and see exactly what their choices will look like.”

What are the benefits of getting one’s blinds and drapery from a specialized supplier such as yours when compared to the big box stores? “Unlike the big box stores, our products provide the quality expected of custom North American made goods,” Dudfield expresses. “We are solely focused on window coverings, so we are experts in this, not generalists as you find in a large chain store.” He concludes by emphasizing, “This is what we do — only blinds and drapery, so we do it well.” Are there any new concepts or technologies we might be seeing in the future as it relates to window coverings? “We are very choosy with our suppliers and we choose them based on quality and innovation, therefore, we’re able to bring the newest concepts and innovation to our clients,” says Messent. Dudfield continues by stating, “Motorization is a large expanding market. Our focus has been on making this new technology more accessible and our suppliers have responded by offering more and more options at all price ranges.” So once again you’ve returned home from another rough work day, but since it’s Friday the peace of your sunroom and the weekend waits! You pass through the living room, opening your automated blinds as you go.

Cellular blinds can create beauty and elegance in a room while remaining a highly beneficial, functional feature. Photo courtesy of Comfortex Window Fashions.

A quick pause in the kitchen allows you to grab a cool beverage while closing the kitchen blinds . . . I mean who really wants to stare at the neighbours the entire time you wash dishes? You can only politely smile so many times! You settle in your favourite chair, in your favourite room, as the last rays of sunlight for the day wash across the room. The new

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window coverings perfectly complement the décor and enhance the overall feeling of the sunroom. It’s moments like this that make all of the hard work worthwhile and allow you to recharge before Monday comes. Perhaps you’ll enjoy coffee in the morning, as the first light of sunrise passes through your blinds to provide the perfect start to new day!

THE PARENTING BIZ Feature Story By Rebecca Wright, Julianna Bonnett And Jim Murphy

From Child’s Play To Real Life CEOs, Area Organizations Hold The Key To Success Participating in Junior Achievement programs can transform a child and give them the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed in school, business and life. Pictured are Owen Horton and Blake Pickard who chose lemonade as their product for a recent JA “Business Blast” summer camp. Photo courtesy of JA SWO.

ince October celebrates “Small Business Month” and pays tribute to entrepreneurs starting up their own companies, it’s also a perfect time to highlight local businesses and organizations who are preparing children and youth to become successful business owners and employees. From starting up the traditional lemonade stand (the perfect small business metaphor)

to make extra cash for toys, hobbies, or even raise funds for a charity — like the W.E. Care for Kids Lemonade Brigade (WeCareForKids.org) — small things add up to make a huge impact when it comes to today’s children and youth. Running a lemonade stand represents hard work ethics, customer relations, independence and fosters a sense of pride. B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

These are just some of the important qualities of a business professional that can set your child on a path to potentially becoming a CEO! At the end of the day, it’s all about guiding our youth in the right direction, while they’re still young. To assist with this preparation, there are several businesses, organizations available,

THE PARENTING BIZ and events scheduled in October and November, to help your kids get a leg up in the business world. While you’ll find several organizations and businesses listed here that are training today’s youth to enter the work force, there are countless other local businesses teaching children and youth the ABCs of business. For example, Code Ninjas (1950 Lauzon Road, Unit 130, Windsor; website: CodeNinjas.com/locations/windsor-on-ca), and tutoring companies such as Oxford Learning in LaSalle and Tecumseh (OxfordLearning.com) and The Literacy Loft (2052 Ottawa Street, Windsor; TheLiteracyLoft.com) — all help kids get those grades needed to become a successful business mogul in the future! Read on for more details on some local supports that are sure to help facilitate the business-related aspirations and ambitions of today’s youth. Junior Achievement South Western Ontario Located at 60 William Street South in Chatham, the not-for-profit Junior Achievement South Western Ontario (JA SWO) has been educating students, ages eight to 18, about financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship, for the past 50 years. “As the largest youth business education organization in Canada, we work in partnership with educators, volunteers and businesses relying on thousands of dedicated corporate and individual volunteers to help us achieve our mission,” says Jenne Wason, Regional Director of the ChathamKent, Sarnia-Lambton, Windsor-Essex branch. “We are extremely fortunate to have the support of many of Canada’s leading corporations and local organizations, as these corporations not only provide financial support, but also provide us with volunteers through their in-house Junior Achievement volunteer programs.” Studies have shown that today’s most in-demand jobs didn’t exist 10 years ago. JA prepares students to succeed in tomorrow’s careers, solve tomorrow’s challenges and launch businesses that create tomorrow’s jobs. JA SWO, in partnership with Junior Achievement London and District, have combined their operations, strengthened their team of 11, and set a goal to reach 15,000 elementary and high school students in the next school year. “Junior Achievement will build on our established partnerships to grow our programs to reach more students,” states Wason. “We are excited about the opportunities to strengthen our team and expand delivery of Junior Achievement

Hannah Beintema is photographed making her product for the Junior Achievement “Company Program”. Over a four-month period, students in grades nine to 12, are taught how to organize and operate a real business. Photo courtesy of JA SWO.

programs to youth in our south western communities.” JA SWO (JASWO.org) also offers an after-school “Company Program” where secondary school students create their own businesses from start to finish. Volunteers from the local business community work with students to launch and run a small enterprise, which helps give them real-world skills and the experience they need to achieve their dreams of becoming entrepreneurs. “We are looking for students for our ‘Company Program’ this year, which starts in October,” Wason notes. “And we are always looking for new volunteers to help us bring our programs to students in the community.” “Manufacturing Day” October 4, 2019 This year, “Manufacturing Day” (MFGDay.com) in Windsor Essex takes place on Friday, October 4, 2019. The event is put on annually by the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC). This year, they are proudly partnering with Workforce WindsorEssex, the local school boards, municipalities and regional employers, to coordinate activities. Over the years, interest by schools and students has been growing, with almost 700 students participating in 2018, touring manufacturing facilities across Windsor Essex. Organizers are confident this trend will continue into 2019. “‘Manufacturing Day’ is an outstanding initiative and an opportunity for our region’s manufacturers to demonstrate directly with the students that manufacturing is a career full of innovative and technological opportunities,” asserts Lee McGrath, B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

THE PARENTING BIZ Director of Business Retention and Expansion of WE EDC. “The event reinforces the message about the importance of this sector to our local economy and helps to change the perception of students and their parents or guardians about having a career in manufacturing.” Local manufacturing employers have been very responsive to this event and are pleased to once again open their doors to high school/elementary students and educators. Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd. (CavalierTool.com) has participated in “Manufacturing Day” for several years. “We are aware of the growing shortage of skilled trades, and need to be proactive, not only as a company, but as an industry, to bring awareness to the career paths available in this field,” states Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing President Brian Bendig. Located in Windsor at 3450 Wheelton Drive, Bendig says he is looking forward to the tours and demonstrations they’ll be providing students this year. “I hope they are amazed at the amount of technology behind the scenes of producing a mould, the process it takes to make one, and how nice, organized and clean a manufacturing shop can be,” says Bendig. McGrath adds “Manufacturing Day” is an outstanding initiative and an opportunity for

Brian Bendig describes how at Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd., students get a true glimpse into the skilled trades’ field during “Manufacturing Day.” Students are shown various areas and tasks, learn about different job positions and are taken through nine stops on their tour at Cavalier. Photo courtesy of Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing.

our region’s manufacturers to demonstrate directly with students that manufacturing is a career full of innovative and technological opportunities. Bendig agrees wholeheartedly. “It connects industry directly with education, and influences both the students and educators to push towards a future in skilled trades,” he believes.

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Build A Dream October 11 “Dreamer Day Breakfast” & “Career Discovery Expo” November 7, 2019 Through strong partnerships with industry, education and community leaders since 2014, Build a Dream’s staff of five dedicated workers help create career opportunities for young women in grades nine to 12, using awareness campaigns, hands-on learning camps, workshops, a “Career Discovery Expo” and by profiling professional female “Dream Makers” in order to empower young women to make informed career choices. “We spotlight exciting career opportunities for young women in five professional pillars, including skilled trades, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), emergency response, entrepreneurship and advancing women in society,” mentions Nour Hachem-Fawaz, Founder and President of the non-profit organization located at 1501 Howard Avenue in Windsor. “Due to the commonalities with barriers to entry for many careers, Build a Dream focuses on multiple vocations and creates programs that are engaging and responsive by utilizing data tracking and feedback.” In order to prepare young women to become successful entrepreneurs, Build a Dream focuses on giving them the

THE PARENTING BIZ

Founder and President of Build a Dream, Nour Hachem-Fawaz (left) leads a meeting with Build a Dream Directors, Ann Hetherington and Victoria Rose (right). Photo courtesy of Heike Delmore, Delmore Creative Photography.

confidence and support to believe in their ideas and follow their dreams. “Along with encouragement, we need to expose them to different experiences,” Hachem-Fawaz tells Biz X. “We try to empower them to build new skills, and encourage diversity and inclusion in society beyond the workforce.” On October 11 Build a Dream’s second

annual “Dreamer Day Breakfast” takes place at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West in Windsor, from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. The event occurs on “International Day of the Girl” and honours the contributions of community members who promote workforce diversity and inclusion. There is also an awards presentation from

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nominations coming from the community and a panel of female professionals sharing insight on topics like business development and workforce inclusivity, moderated by Helga Reidel, President and CEO of ENWIN Utilities. Admission is $35 per ticket or a table of 10 seats can be purchased for $350. “Build a Dream has helped thousands of students (and their parents) expand their career choices by exploring pathways underrepresented by women,” says HachemFawaz. “Our annual ‘Career Discovery Expo’ spotlights these careers and equips young women with the power of choice by providing information, resources, networks and role models.” For 2019, the sixth annual “Career Discovery Expo” in Windsor happens on November 7 at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road, in Windsor from 5 to 9 p.m. Seating is limited, so parents and high school women need to reserve a spot online as soon as possible. Throughout the year, Build a Dream (WeBuildADream.com) offers a selfesteem workshop designed with the help of STEM educator Chuck Stoffle and made possible through funding from Workforce WindsorEssex as well as hands-on learning camps held during March and summer break.

THE PARENTING BIZ 23 kids ages nine to 12, the program has grown to see more than 350 graduates pass through their two locations (586 and 691 Ouellette Avenue in downtown Windsor). Many of their graduates go on to be hired in the film and media industry.

“The camp is ‘phase one’ of a bigger picture for many of our campers who are now enrolling in local post-secondary media arts programs at the college and university,” Gellman notes. “During post-secondary school, we hire students to teach and we have

Brandy Coulsey, Marketing and Vendor Relations Manager of Next Dimension Inc. helps a student use virtual reality at the Build a Dream “Career Discovery Expo” at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor, November 2018. Photo by Jacqueline Khalil, JP Photography.

Film Camp For Kids & Youth The Film Camp for Kids & Youth offers children ages eight to 18 years old, weeklong filmmaking programs with classes in photography, visual arts, acting for film, set design, stop motion, animation and more. “Filmmaking and media arts include almost all creative arts, so we offer a wide variety of classes,” says Amanda Gellman, President and Founder of the camp. “Our overall organizational goal is to grow Windsor talent in media arts and to keep talent local.” Beginning in 2013 as a pilot project with

Is your child or teen interested in digital media? Film Camp for Kids & Youth offers filmmaking classes and so much more! The program encourages teamwork and self-expression that not only opens doors to potential careers in media arts, but teaches a myriad of valuable life skills to assist participants in countless ways throughout their lives. Photo courtesy of Film Camp for Kids & Youth.

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THE PARENTING BIZ posted more than 70 jobs in the past seven years and hired 40 different post-secondary students before we help them start local film and media arts businesses, post-graduation.” At Film Camp for Kids & Youth, it’s about more than just filmmaking, asserts Gellman. “Our camps place children and teens in a high demand, deadline-driven, fun-filled environment,” she explains. “The program encourages teamwork and self-expression that not only opens doors to potential careers in media arts, but teaches a myriad of valuable life skills that will help participants in countless ways throughout their lives.” Classes are available during the summer, winter and March break along with weekend class during the fall and spring. Learn more on their website: FilmCampForKids.com. The EPICentre At The University Of Windsor From extra-curricular activities to workshop series, students from all disciplines have the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship and innovation at the University of Windsor’s Entrepreneurship Practice and Innovation Centre (EPICentre).

EPICentre Director Wen Teoh believes they are a key player in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region, as their services and programs help promote entrepreneurship both within the university and the region, to students and recent grads. Photo courtesy of Anthony Sheardown.

Located at 2455 Wyandotte Street West, the EPICentre (EPICentreUWindsor.ca) is a place that focuses on helping students develop an interest in starting their own business. Established in 2014, EPICentre’s focus is on the growth of entrepreneurship and allowing students to partake in activities and programs that can help youth build those skill sets. Director Wen Teoh says the EPICentre is a great place to check out if you’re thinking of starting a small business after completing your education at the University of Windsor. “We are a key player in the Windsor Essex entrepreneurial ecosystem,” says Teoh. “We help promote entrepreneurship within the university, as well as in the region and provide entrepreneurial skill training to students and recent graduates.” Teoh adds that the EPICentre has a few B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

THE PARENTING BIZ key events happening this fall that students should get involved in. “We are going to host the 4th annual “RBC EPIC Business Model Canvas Competition” on November 8 and 9,” she notes. Funded by the RBC Foundation, this competition is open to all students from any post-secondary institution in Canada. (EPICbmc.ca has further details) According to Teoh, the competition’s first prize is $10,000 in cash and second place wins $2,500. There are also a couple of other prizes sponsored by KPMG and Postmedia. In 2020, the EPICentre will be launching two new programs. The first one will support female led start-ups in emerging technology or related sector. The second one relates to FedDev Ontario recently awarding $5 million to an initiative led by the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation to grow the auto mobility innovation cluster in Windsor Essex. “Take Our Kids To Work Day” November 6, 2019 The Learning Partnership, a Canadian charity, holds their annual “Take Our Kids to Work Day” (TOKTWD) on November 6, 2019, allowing students to experience the working world first-hand. Launched in 1994, TOKTWD gives

students in grade nine the opportunity to spend the day in the world of work with a parent, relative, friend, or volunteer host. With 200,000 students visiting workplaces across the country every year, TOKTWD is one of the most recognized career education events in Canada. (Refer to: TheLearningPartnership.ca). “Having young people exposed to the various careers and jobs available in our community is a great way to aid them in pursuit of their educational goals,” says Joseph Sirianni, Vice President, Human Resources, Safety and Facilities Management at St. Clair College (StClairCollege.ca). “It also gives them a better appreciation and understanding of the type of work that their parents do.” Along with St. Clair College and many other organizations throughout Windsor Essex, ENWIN Utilities (ENWIN.com) has participated for over 15 years. “This day gives ENWIN the opportunity to help young people understand the potential for career pathways in water and electricity,” says Barbara Peirce Marshall, Manager of Corporate Communications. “We feel the site tours and hands-on experience we provide offer students a wealth of information, which can help shape their educational and career decisions.” Sessions are conducted at their Rhodes

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Drive Operations Centre and the A.H. Weeks Water Treatment Plant, 3665 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor. Canadian Cadet Organization Do you know anyone between the ages of 12 and 18 who wants more adventure and action than is offered by “Minecraft” or “Call of Duty”? Then they need to read this section! The non-profit, Canadian Cadet Organization (CCO) is supported by the Department of National Defence, the Air Cadet League, and a sponsoring committee of local volunteers. Every Tuesday from September to June, 364 Air Cadet Squadron presents “Air Cadet League” — one of the oldest youth programs in the country dating back to the mid-1800s — at 2600 Airport Road, from 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. for kids ages 12 to 18. “CCO is a dynamic, interactive program offered to young men and women,” says Captain Craig Mackenzie-Haines, Commanding Officer of 364 Lancaster Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. “It gives youth the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, which instills in young Canadians the attributes of citizenship, leadership, physical fitness and teamwork.” Through fundraising and support from

THE PARENTING BIZ partner organizations, CCO (Cadets.ca) provides opportunities to participate in training programs, both locally as well as at summer training centres and international exchanges. The best part is fees are minimal and no youth will be turned away! “The CCO prides itself on being a welcoming, inclusive environment,” says Mackenzie-Haines. “We provide our youth with unique opportunities they may not be afforded otherwise.” United Way Of Windsor-Essex For more than 70 years, United Way/ Centraide Windsor-Essex County has provided children and young people in the community with the opportunity and support to succeed from “Cradle to Career” (C2C, a new strategic direction for 2021). Located at 300 Giles Boulevard East, this non-profit organization recently launched “WE-STEAM” with a goal for students to show improved confidence in STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) at school. Students “learn by doing” including hands on experiments, robotics and encoding, digital art and green screen augmented reality projects, creating circuits, and doing engineering and construction challenges while working in teams. The plan was to engage 250 children (ages five to 12) over

United Way/Centraide of Windsor-Essex, Vice President of Finance and Operations, Andrew Bothamley, indicates their goal is for children and youth in Windsor to grow up to be successful and happy. Photo courtesy of United Way Windsor-Essex.

two years, but they reached 246 kids in the first year of the program (further details at: WeAreUnited.com/WESteam). United Way also unlocked youth potential as the first cohort of 50 “On Track to Success” participants graduated this year. This is a student achievement program which offers supports that wrap around a family and help economically disadvantaged youth graduate high school and go on to post-secondary or trade education. In total, the program supported 125 students this year (grades nine to 12) in Leamington and West Windsor. Andrew Bothamley, Vice President of Finance and Operations, explains that the organization’s focus for more than seven decades has been to help end childhood poverty and to help children exceed their wildest dreams. “We hope to engage with the community

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about the local issues going on,” asserts Bothamley. “We want child and youth in Windsor to grow up to be successful and happy. Within the United Way that is one of our many things that we focus on.” United Way (WeAreUnited.com) just recently launched a new campaign called #UNIGNORABLE. The campaign strongly focuses on what’s happening in local communities and having people come together to help solve local issues that shouldn’t be ignored, but rather addressed. According to Bothamley, Windsor is one of the worst places in Canada for childhood poverty and with the new campaign they want to educate people about it. “We have a 10 year plan and we’re hoping in the next 10 years we will see the scale of childhood poverty in Windsor go down rapidly,” he states. Youth Opportunities Today For A Better Workforce Tomorrow So consider what your kids — whether they’re small children or older teens — could be a part of today that could help them be more successful in the future. There are so many opportunities across Windsor Essex that support our youth and prepare them for the workforce. It’s an investment of time and effort that is sure to be beneficial in many ways for everyone.

THE PARENTING BIZ HEALTH MATTERS

Be A Healthy Role Model Supplied By The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit

As a parent, your children learn from you every day. They hear and see everything you do, even if it’s not meant for them. The things you say and do will teach them what is important, how to act, and what is “normal”. This includes healthy choices and actions. You can be a great role model by doing healthy things and teaching your children about healthy behaviours. Things like being active, eating healthy foods, doing activities you enjoy, and listening to your children, can be very helpful. Being “present” means a lot to children. If you are always distracted — looking at your phone or watching television — your children may start to feel less important. Are you talking the talk, or also walking the walk? If you tell your children to be more active, spend less time on screens, or get more sleep — are you doing these things yourself? It can be confusing for children to hear one thing, but then see something different. For example, if you make a rule that children cannot use technology after 7 p.m., you should put your screens away at the same time.

IMPORTANT CONVERSATIONS When talking to your children, here are some healthy things to focus on: learning a new skill, getting good grades, making new friends,reaching a goal, and trying something new. TAKE ACTION Be a healthy role model for your children, with these five tips. 1. Be active as a family. Spend quality time together doing things you all enjoy which are active. 2. Put the screens away. Limit everyone’s screen time, and do things as a family instead. 3. Make meal times, family time. Not only should you eat as a family, but include children in meal planning and food prep. They will learn food skills, spend time with you, and will be more likely to try new foods. 4. Be a good listener. Children need a trusted adult to talk to about any problems they face. Let your children know you support them, no matter what — it is great for their mental health. 5. Support their choices. If your children want to play a sport, an instrument, or take an art class, do what you can to support it. Encourage them to try new things and find what they love.

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Kids learn how to live a healthy life from their parents. So turn off the television, put down those cell phones and spend some quality time outdoors this fall together as a family. And don’t forget Fido! Photo courtesy of Pexels.com/DerickSantos.

Last, but not least — do not stress about being a perfect role model! No one is perfect. There should always be a healthy balance in life. Teaching your children about balance is just as important as teaching them about health. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, in partnership with other agencies and health care providers, seeks to enable all Windsor and Essex County residents to be as healthy as possible. The unit is located at 1005 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor and online at: WECHU.org.

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THE PARENTING BIZ EVENT PROFILE

“Ontario Dress Purple Day” Thursday, October 24, 2019

By Tina Gatt, WECAS Manager Of Community Outreach

Every October, Children’s Aid Societies across the province raise awareness about the important role that adults and communities play in supporting vulnerable children, youth, and families. Led by the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies, October 24 is a day of action called “Ontario Dress Purple Day” 2019. On this day, societies like the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS), rally with local partner agencies, elementary and secondary schools, EarlyON Child And Family Centres, child care centres, and businesses to speak up for every child’s and youth’s right to safety and wellbeing, in all spaces. The important message the Society is conveying during the October outreach campaign is — “It takes a community to care for a kid”. Regardless of who you are or what position you hold, we all have a responsibility to ensure our most vulnerable are protected from harm, and can grow to reach their full potential. The Society has long recognized the need for a primary prevention strategy that includes public awareness and education to prevent child abuse and neglect before it even happens.

When maltreatment has occurred, or there is a risk something could happen, they tell children and youth to reach out to a trusted adult to get the help they need as early as possible. These caregivers and adults need to listen and respond in a supportive and appropriate manner. The professional community also has a duty to report suspected child maltreatment under the Child, Youth & Family Services Act (2017). Derrick Drouillard is the Society’s Executive Director. “I want the community to know that the majority of children and youth we serve remain in their homes or with kin, not in foster care,” he states. “In many of these families, their involvement with us is not related to the harsh abuse many associate with child welfare. These families struggle with poverty, social isolation, mental health, addictions, and other challenges.” He continues by explaining, “This makes the parenting role an even more difficult one. The complexities of these situations require a community response. We cannot do this work alone. Families need all systems working together to support keeping children and youth safe.”

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On “Ontario Dress Purple Day” please commit to holding conversations, activities, events, take to social media, and of course, to wear purple! Help WECAS raise awareness about the issues facing families today that create the need for child welfare services and embrace our collective responsibility to support the safety and well-being of children and youth within their families and communities. To get involved with “Ontario Dress Purple Day” 2019 refer to: WECAS.on.ca to learn more about the campaign and to sign up. Also follow the campaign on Facebook and Twitter @WindsorEssexCAS and use the hashtags #IBREAKthesilence #DPD2019 and #WEgoespurple.

THE PARENTING BIZ CHARITY PROFILE

Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre Committed to raising public awareness regarding the existence of child/youth abuse in the community Story And Photo By Jim Murphy

n Canada, October marks “Child Abuse Prevention” month designed to raise awareness about how to identify and help prevent child abuse. In Windsor and Essex County alone, over 70 cases of child abuse were investigated last year. Since August 2018, the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre (WECYAC), has provided a community-based response, advocacy and healing for child/youth victims of abuse in a safe, childcentred, responsive environment. Michelle Oake, Executive Director of WECYAC, recognizes the anxiety and fear that children and youth may be feeling when entering their facility, located at 2000 Talbot Road West, Suite #3304, on the main campus of St. Clair College. “However, the centre provides a comfortable, child/youth-friendly and neutral physical space,” states Oake. “Here, children and youth feel welcomed and at ease.” In order to help keep kids comfortable, Oake believes they should only tell their story of abuse — once. For this reason, the WECYAC allows children/youth to disclose their abuse to a trained collaborative team of professionals. “Prior to WECYAC, children/youth subject to abuse were interviewed in several locations around the community, by multiple different professionals,” Oake says. “WECYAC minimizes the number of times children/youth must tell their story, reducing the trauma of disclosure.” Oake also tells Biz X that in order to provide their service to children, the WECYAC is a partnership reaching well beyond the centre’s four staff members. “WECYAC is a partnership among key organizations, community leaders, champions and government who share a passion for supporting children/youth and families who have been affected by abuse,” Oake indicates. “We work with these key partners on training and workshops within the Windsor Essex community to raise awareness regarding the existence of child/youth abuse.” The WECYAC is also committed to raising public awareness regarding the existence of child/youth abuse in the community through social media and fundraisers. “WECYAC is very active on social media and is constantly sending out to the public, statistics regarding child abuse/reporting prevalence, abuse prevention strategies, how to properly report abuse, signs that may indicate abuse, etcetera,” Oake mentions. “As well, the WECYAC has hosted a number of fundraisers with the purpose of not only

Michelle Oake, Executive Director of the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre, is photographed in her office located at 2000 Talbot Road West, Suite #3304 in Windsor.

raising funds to help sustain the centre’s operations, but also to raise awareness regarding the existence of child abuse.” Aside from fundraisers, the WECYAC is partially funded by the Department of Justice (Government of Canada) and charitable donations from the community. “Partial government funding must be applied for on an annual basis,” Oake states. “Moving forward, financial support from the individuals, corporations, foundations and other forms of government are required in order to sustain operations.” Local sponsors include: St. Clair College; LaSalle Police Youth Foundation; Parks & Rec Gastropub & Sports Bar; Sunshine Drugs Family of Pharmacies; AlphaKOR Group; Rotary Club of Windsor; Victim Services of Windsor & Essex County; WFCU Credit Union; Lucy’s; Ontario Provincial Police Association; Labourers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA! 625); Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens; cOPPs for Charity (OPP); Lakeside Bakery, Deli and Café; Titan Motors; Women Who Care; Angels in the Night Homeless Shelter Project; Do Good Divas; Cora Breakfast and Lunch; Opportunity Hub (OHUB) and Dillon Consulting. For more information about the organization, its Board of Directors and Advisors, the investigation process, upcoming events and more, visit their website at: WECYAC.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ Hallowe’en can be a fun and exciting time for kids. These safety tips for parents, children and homeowners will help keep everyone safe and happy this Hallowe’en. For Parents . . . Do not use masks. Masks make it hard for children to see what’s around them, including cars. Try a hypoallergenic (less likely to cause an allergic reaction), non-toxic makeup kit instead. Make or buy costumes in light-coloured material. Place strips of reflective tape on the back and front of costumes, so that drivers can better see your child. Costumes should fit properly to prevent trips and falls. Avoid items such as oversized shoes, high heels, long dresses and long capes. Dress your child for the weather. Add layers if needed. Put your child’s name, address and phone number on his/her costume. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult for trick or treating. By the age of 10, some children are ready to go trick-ortreating with a group of friends. Keep in mind that gum and hard candy can pose a choking risk for young children. Remove make-up before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

If Your Child Is Going Without An Adult . . . Make sure your child is in a group of at least three people. Give them a flashlight. A cell phone is also a good idea if you have one. Discuss in advance the route they should follow. Ask them to call you if they plan to go on a street that isn’t on the route. Set a curfew (and make sure they have a watch with them). Tell your children not to eat anything until they get home. For Children And Youth . . . Carry a white bag or pillowcase for your candy, and add some reflective tape. Dress for the weather. Cold weather or water absorbent materials in the rain can be very uncomfortable. Bring a cell phone, in case you need to make an emergency phone call. Always travel in groups. Be sure there are at least three of you at all times. Let your parents know where you’re going to be at all times. Don’t visit houses that are not well lit. Never go inside a stranger’s house. Use the sidewalk whenever possible. If there’s no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic. Don’t criss-cross back and forth across the street. Work your way up one side of the street, and then start on the other. If you have any allergies, be sure to tell

the person who is giving out the treats. Don’t eat any of your treats before you get home. Once home, ask your parents to look through your treats with you to make sure everything is okay. For Homeowners . . . Turn on outdoor lights, and replace burnt-out bulbs. Remove items from your yard or porch that might trip a child. Sweep wet leaves from your steps and driveway. Use an alternative to candles in your pumpkins, such as a flashlight or a battery-operated candle. Remember that some children have food allergies. Consider giving treats other than candy, such as stickers, erasers or a yo-yo. Happy Hallowe’en, everyone!

This article was supplied by the Canadian Paediatric Society. For a wealth of information on child and youth health and well-being, visit: CaringForKids.cps.ca.

This page is sponsored by these community-minded businesses and organizations wishing your family a safe and happy Hallowe’en!

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TAKE THE LEAD

Leading A Community Of Entrepreneurs By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

hen I first met Matthew Nahdee, Executive Director of the CanAm Indian Friendship Centre, I was instantly impressed by his passion and varied experience. I arrived hoping to get him involved in projects I was working on, and left wanting to get involved in his projects at the centre. His enthusiasm is infectious and I was struck by his vision, powerful advocacy and desire to inspire entrepreneurial skills in his community. Nahdee grew up in poverty between rural Chatham-Kent and London, observing that a lot of people had a lot more. This led him down an academic/athletic path that brought him to six different institutions and three different law schools. He found that his passion wasn’t in academia; it was in people that liked academia. As Nahdee explains, “Humans connect in different ways. For me, the most productive, safe and efficient ways, with like-minded articulate individuals, tend to be at institutions. I had a private career in law for a short time, but value systems aren’t the number one goal of law so I prefer social development and non-profit.” His mentors are his parents, family and Juan Carlos Reyes, a displaced Honduran. “Reyes is an indigenous, professional that has worked with our first nation communities in Canada,” Nahdee comments. “He helped me use my emotions and passions in productive ways and taught me a lot.” When I asked him who he admires, he named Mary Duckworth, Faith Hale and his mom. “They are three hard working indigenous women who support me and only care about our future generations,” he states.

The Friendship Centre movement is based around indigenous people helping all people. “Everything we do today impacts the next seven generations so we offer inclusion, acceptance, friendship, future planning and any type of positive social group for anyone in Windsor Essex,” says Nahdee. He talks about how important it is to serve future generations and their socio-economic progress.

Matthew Nahdee is pictured in the fall of 2018 in Aotearoa (the Māori name for New Zealand) where he was conducting a workshop. Photo courtesy of Jon Araujo.

Nahdee shares one of the projects they are developing — a language web-based application with augmented reality, so everyone can identify indigenous plants, species, animals and territories within our region. He proudly describes that “The centre is the first grass roots, indigenous organization to have legal standing as it relates to land use planning, enabling them to be actively involved in major development projects around the city.”

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He continues by stating, “Our youth and child development programming is over capacity with over 200 youth at their last Pow Wow. When asked about his goals Nahdee mentions, “Life is easy; as an Anishinabe man I have to protect my family, community, and the eco-aspect of this globe, so I maximize the impact of those three tenants every day.” One of the items on his agenda for the centre involves moving into more regional services for the 50,000 indigenous between Sarnia, London and Windsor. “Less than 10% own homes, as our people can’t get mortgages and must use cash — we need to build safe housing for our community,” he reports. The centre has a grant program for building capacity, developing entrepreneur skills and business acuity. And this program gives a positive school experience that many haven’t had in the past, with the reserve system. “For some, it is the first time they have experienced academic accreditation, as they were scarred from what has happened in the past,” Nahdee clarifies. “I see positive sustained growth for Can-Am in all three aspects of capital, human, financial and physical. If you want to help our people, go meet our people, sit by our fires, come to our centres, learn with us, share with us, we will all be better off.” I will wrap up now with a perfect quote from Nahdee who believes, “There is no such thing as win or lose — it’s only win or learn.” Learn more about the centre online at: CAIFC.ca or stop by their location at 1-1699 Northway Avenue in Windsor. Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is an award winning leadership consultant and former Director of Leadership Windsor/Essex, Principal, Chief Communications Officer and business owner with over 30 years of experience in education, administration, mentoring, consulting and community leadership. If you know a leader in the community to profile here in this column, email: Sherrilynn@BizXmagazine.com.

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MAKING A SOUND LIVING

A Handmade Sign At A Metallica Concert Moves Windsor Musician Into The Choice Of A Lifetime By Lori Baldassi

ome people coast through life, putting dreams and passion aside to pursue the common goal of a good education leading to a great job, leaving behind a hidden passion or talent. Martin “Marty” Bak is one of the brave who abandoned the conventional road to pursue the rough, unknown path less travelled called “the music industry.” Make no mistake, Bak, a 2018 Biz X Award winner for best recording studio, is a multitalented man with a musical plan. I interviewed him in late summer and now . . . drum roll please . . . here is the transcript of what we discussed, reflecting on how he became involved in the music biz to owning SLR Studios (Sound Labs Recording; SLR-Studios.com) and what he has planned for the future.

BIZ X: What was your path from musician to sound engineer to global product distribution? Marty Bak (MB): My parents immigrated to Canada from Poland when I was two years old. My dad was a wedding band musician and my brother played drums in a band. Before my dad bought us a drum kit, I remember playing with wooden spoons on pillows. Later we found my dad’s guitar and began practicing for hours daily and became a band. A few years and many bands later, we went into a recording studio, Spectre Sound Studios (SpectreMedia.ca) owned by Glenn Fricker. I was hooked and Glenn gave me a copy of his recording applications for my computer. Whenever I watched recording footage of band documentaries, I tried to absorb their information and techniques. I purchased gear and started to record my band, improving my

“sound” over time. Eventually, bands wanted to book with me. It initially was not to start a business, but to make my band sound great. One of the first bands I recorded was Ashes of Soma — almost immediately after the band hit radio they took off. At this time, I was taking Tool & Die Automotive Product Design at St. Clair College, but my affinity towards music excited me more. My defining moment for my career happened three months into the course. My friends took me to a Metallica show and I made a sign reading: “Lars, let me play your drum kit” and I got to play “Seek & Destroy” with Metallica in front of 25,000 people watching. It was incredible. I soon dropped out of school to become a record producer. BIZ X: How did you get back into equipment production? MB: After many years of working in the studio, I noticed a few tools missing. I researched heavily online with no success in finding what I needed. One of my clients was in the mould trade, so I approached him, and a year later, we released the world’s first dual-microphone clip called “The X Clip,” which is now available worldwide. We (SLR Studios) paired up with a prestigious microphone company called Royer Labs in Burbank, California. We designed a microphone mount that paired their most popular microphone combination — a Royer 121 with a Share SM57. It will be available across the world from various companies such as Long & McQuade musical instruments, Guitar Centre, Vintage King, Sweetwater, Musician’s Friend, and many more. This is the equivalent, in the music industry, to someone coming up with a product and having

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Pictured at the 2018 Biz X Awards Gala SLR Studios, Owner/Producer Martin Bak earned the “Recording Studio That Sounds Like A Winner.” He is photographed after accepting his award with his wife Gosia. Photo by Rod Denis.

it available in every Walmart. It’s funny how I started in the mould industry, gravitated to the music industry, and now have come full circle to work in both worlds. BIZ X: Do you have any advice for young artists, sound engineers or entrepreneurs? MB: The key to being successful is persistence. The constant pursuit of achieving your desired ultimate goal, or many little ones that eventually will lead to massive success. You don’t have to be the most talented person in the world to be successful, nor have the best product/idea in the world. You just need drive and ambition.

BIZ X: What made you decide to stay in Windsor and produce instead of relocating to a music hub like Los Angeles or Nashville? MB: I almost made the move at one point, but higher overhead, re-location/start-up costs, leaving behind a business with steady clientele and my family and friends changed my plans. The great advantage of living in Windsor is that it doesn’t limit anyone from accomplishing their dreams when the United States is 10 minutes away, and Toronto is only 3 1/2 hours away. Another great part about our city is that one of Canada’s biggest Youtubers, Glenn Fricker lives right here.

BIZ X: What are some of the famous musicians and bands you have worked with? MB: Major label artists span from Warner, RL Recordings, Universal, Virgin, and Sony including: The Tea Party, Billy Raffoul, Peter Raffoul, Sick Puppies, Richy Nix, Electra Mustaine (Dave Mustaine’s daughter and Dave is the original lead guitarist with Metallica), Classified, Kai (Methods of Mayhem), Wiz Kalifa, Rae Sremmurd and No Resolve. Locally I work on The S’Aints annual Christmas CD and most recently I worked with Christian Vegh who just signed with RL Recordings – Universal Music Group. I mixed a song Christian recorded with the famed Bissonette brothers, Gregg (drummer for Ringo Star And His All Starr Band) and Matt (bass player for Elton John).

BIZ X: What has contributed to your success with SLR Studios? MB: Many hours of working late, missing birthday parties, dinners, and girlfriends to serve the artist as best as possible to give them the highest chance of “making it” in the music industry. We’re priced very reasonably considering it’s a world-class recording facility. You go to any major studio in LA or Nashville and see their gear. We have the same or at least the same caliber of gear at a fraction of the cost available for artists right here in Windsor.

BIZ X: Tell me about work on The S’Aints CD and why you think it is so important to give back? MB: The S’Aints fundraiser has become a much bigger success than we ever expected. The project was planned to run for two to three years, and here we are about to embark on our 10th annual release. It’s an amazing project to be involved with, especially considering how many people it helps in our city. This city has given all of us in the band the ability to have music as our career, so to be able to use our

With a clear goal, incredible drive and persistence, you can achieve anything you want, but you can’t give up.

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talents collectively to make such a huge impact in our town is a great feeling. We hope that it inspires others to do the same. BIZ X: Where do you see yourself in five years? MB: I see many artists from all over the world travelling to Windsor to record at SLR Studios. It’s already happening right now, but it’ll be at an even greater level. We’ll have more products available in our SLR Products branch and eventually we’ll have to move into a larger facility to take on a larger workload. We’re currently running two studios in our facility and booked up one year ahead, so hiring more engineers/producers to help our turnaround time improve would be beneficial for our overall growth and future clientele. I’d love to achieve a few Top 10 Billboard charting songs. That would be a personal dream come true for me. From backstage to the airwaves Lori Baldassi has been in and around the music industry for over 21 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.

from the bookshelf

Memories Of An Horrendous Crime Haunt A Survivor And How To Become A Compassionate Caregiver By Marlene Markham-Gay

uthor Barbara Allemeersch (Duriancik) was born in Rodney, Ontario and now resides in Windsor. As a Developmental Service Worker, she worked as a Medical Assistant for over 30 years. She assisted psychiatrists and psychologists, helping them to make the lives of the mentally underdeveloped much easier. After retiring, she felt compelled to write a story about an injustice that occurred to one young girl. It gave her great satisfaction to complete “Miranda’s Appeasement: If your heart is not content there is no peace.” Reading this book is like taking a walk on the dark side. It is the fictional depiction of a true story, which is extremely captivating. “Miranda’s Appeasement” is the story of an attractive young woman, 18 years old, who is driving in her car to meet her boyfriend when she is abducted, raped, beaten and left to die by four men. She survives her injuries and the whole terrible ordeal physically. The four men are never caught. Miranda becomes a police officer and is promoted to the criminal investigations division. She is given a case she is determined to solve involving a child who was beaten beyond recognition, raped and left to die. Something in her mind snaps as this case haunts her, and her own trauma from years ago resurfaces. Miranda develops multiple personalities and becomes the villain. “Miranda’s Appeasement” is available at Indigo (Devonshire Mall) and St. Clair Beach. It can be ordered at Coles inside Tecumseh Mall and Walmart online. Next we have “Communication is Care: 9 Empowering Strategies To Guide Patient Healing” by Jennifer George, a local Author and a Physiotherapist. George was primary caregiver to her beloved father for 10 years. She has spent the last 11 years of her career

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studying and reflecting on the importance of communication in our health and educational systems. She is a mentor to healthcare providers by helping them to discover their purpose: achieving fulfillment, and positively communicating with patients and caregivers to create empowering experiences. In her book George writes, “This is a practical and intuitive guide for current and future healthcare providers who want to communicate with dignity, empathy, and compassion.” There are nine guidelines George has outlined by chapters in her book. They include: “Guide from a Place of Integrity”; Focus on Solutions, Not Barriers” and “Practice with Compassion and Empathy.” The reader can discover how to develop stronger communication skills and learn how to listen better. George believes, “Human to human listening is not a one-size fits all. It requires patient-centred providers to be present and to completely listen to what matters most to their patients in that moment. It requires conscious focus on the verbal and non-verbal messages being expressed, without interruption.” Whether it is a loved one you are caring for, or you are a professional working in a fast-paced healthcare centre, George’s guidelines inspire you to become a better caregiver by demonstrating how to acquire and develop skills and techniques that are helpful to the patient. “Communication is Care” is available at Indigo (Devonshire Mall) and St. Clair Beach. It is also available in the gift shop at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. You can connect and collaborate with the author on revolutionizing healthcare delivery at: JenniferGeorge.co. 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 grandchildren to read as well.

THE WAY IT WAS

Santa’s Letter To Windsor’s “Good People” By Andrea Grimes

indsor has long been recognized for its unparalleled generosity — a distinguished tradition honoured by generations of families. Since 1910, The Good Fellow Club (visit: WindsorGoodfellows.org/history), has delivered Christmas cheer to families one basket at a time, especially during the empty war years of sacrifice and especially when our battle-hardened Veterans returned home. On December 15, 1910 an announcement appeared in The Evening Record, “the Good Fellow Club to be formed in this city.” It was followed by Santa’s letter inviting Windsor citizens to write him letters c/o The Evening Record. Santa asked Windsor’s good people to reply to his letter forwarding their names addresses and indicating the number of children they would sponsor. Santa would endorse and mail letters back to everyone with names and addresses of families throughout Windsor who were desperately in need of a Merry Christmas. Shortly after publishing Santa’s invitation, The Evening Record received this reply: “The citizens of our city to organize and hold open for membership a Good Fellow Club, signed, A. Citizen, Willing to be a Good Fellow.” According to an article published in the December 12, 1960 edition of The Windsor Star, “The Good Fellow Club was once housed in the Crawford House — Windsor’s most popular hotel at the north-east corner of Sandwich and Ferry.” An article in The Windsor Star December 12, 1962 noted the Club’s other locations included the Red Cross building at the Windsor Ferry Dock, the Blue Water Hotel at 128 Windsor Avenue and the Mercer Street School.

From left: Ray J. Desmarais, (City Commissioner of Works), John Martin, (the Headquarters staff) and Eric S. Wiley, (Chief of Windsor’s Engineering Department) enjoy fellowship over coffee, following the end of their shift, hawking The Windsor Star/Goodfellows edition newspaper December 22, 1956. Photo courtesy of The Windsor Goodfellows.

On December 15, 1962 the Windsor Goodfellows moved into a long vacated building at 401 Park Street West. The 1930 edition of the Vernon’s Directory listed this building as Quality Dry Cleaners. A page from the Club’s 1936 archives reads, “When your earthly course is run and your earthly work is done and you are standing up at the golden gates asking to be admitted, if St. Peter frowns at you and says: ‘What have you done to entitle you to enter here?’ Simply smile at him and say: ‘St. Peter, I was a Windsor Goodfellow and I did my bit.’ And I don’t think you will need any other passport, for I believe the good old Saint will open wide those gates and say to you, ‘Pass right in for I need Goodfellows like you in Heaven.’” Gilbert Barichello, Windsor Goodfellows Club President and Public Relations Coordinator says, “Building on the fundamental principles fostering dignity, driving social change and encouraging community capacity, our Club has grown along with our community’s diverse

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populations by developing services to meet the ever-changing needs of our community.” Food insecurity is not only about hunger — it’s about a lack of access to good nutrition. The Goodfellows realized the need to review the nutritional value of their food baskets and consulted with Bridget Fauteax, Registered Dietician. Fauteax’s research noted that nutritional values can be improved upon by making changes to current food choices. Other factors taken into consideration were the weight of the boxes, overall nutritional values of the pantry items and religious values of diverse groups in receipt of the Goodfellows food baskets. Food accessibility can bridge cultures, create conversations and build communities by promoting social inclusion and driving civic engagement. Given the direct link between poverty and food insecurity, encouraging community-based investments (through knowledge-sharing and impactful approaches) is essential to scale down the social stigma associated with poverty. According to Barichello, “In 2018, we distributed 3,000 Christmas food baskets. Our success in securing donations is realized by leveraging partnerships with corporate donors and civic organizations. We also depend on the public’s generous support of our Windsor Star/ Goodfellows annual paper drive. This year, this takes place November 28 to 30, 2019.” As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the “Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal” and the “Governor General’s Medal” recognizing her volunteer service to Veterans and military families of our Canadian Armed Forces, as well as with military family service-support organizations to include North Wall Riders Association, Windsor Veterans Memorial Service Committee, Military Institute of Windsor, the Royal Canadian Naval Association, the Korean War Veterans Association and the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association. Writing for Biz X magazine since 2012, Andrea has brought our community closer to recognizing our Veterans for their military service and the sacrifice made to preserve our Canadian values of democracy.

OF THE MONTH

EncoreFX: Happily Obsessed With Corporate Foreign Exchange By Dave Hall

ive years after being incorporated, EncoreFX continues to grow at unprecedented rates in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the financial economy. Specializing in business-to-business foreign exchange and risk management in markets across the globe, EncoreFX (launched in 2015) has more than 170 employees and 3,000 clients in offices scattered across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand. “There has been remarkable growth yearover-year and this year we are 50 percent ahead of last year,” says President Paul Lennox, who is based in Victoria, B.C., where the company headquarters are found. Lennox established the company with Chief Executive Officer Peter Gustavson and Chief Financial Officer Briony Bayer. In fact, business has grown so quickly that Lennox reports the company is considering taking on outside investors. “It’s such a cash-intensive business because we are handling billions of dollars in transactions every year and in order to meet our clients’ needs, we need a massive inventory of cash in multiple currencies,” explains Lennox. “We’ve resisted taking on investment in the past but we believe the time is now right.” The company, a successor to Custom House Currency Exchange, was formed just weeks after a five-year non-compete clause expired. The clause was initiated after Gustavson sold Custom House to Western Union for $370 million USD in 2009. “We had no intention of getting back into the foreign exchange business, but it’s what we know, it’s what we are passionate about and we believe our way of doing business is exactly what our clients need and deserve,” adds Lennox. And the company’s Windsor office is a key part of the company’s growth strategy, asserts Lennox. “Windsor is definitely a hot spot and we are committed to building our team as we get more established in the region,” he says. “There are

huge opportunities in Windsor because of its proximity to the U.S. border and the number of companies catering to international clients.” Linda DeLuca, who previously ran Custom House’s Windsor office, was hired in July 2018 as the company’s Windsor-based Business Development Executive. She works from a remote office as part of a team of FX experts serving the Southwestern Ontario region, with the regional office located in Mississauga. “We were very keen to get Linda on-board because we had worked so well together in the past, which is another reason we are growing and having great success,” comments Lennox. Lennox adds they contacted many former clients and employees and were assured that if they launched a new company, they would have no trouble bringing many of those people back into the fold. “We recognized an opportunity to do things right and implement high ethical standards, some of which were in short supply across the industry,” says Lennox. “Foreign exchange is a major factor on the bottom line for Canadian companies, a huge percentage of which are in the import-export business.” In Windsor, EncoreFX is taking advantage of the region’s highly-concentrated key industries across many sectors and the absence of a local foreign exchange and risk management provider with the global reach and expertise of EncoreFX. As DeLuca explains, EncoreFX has a team of highly-qualified foreign exchange dealers with international experience working in different industries and jurisdictions across the globe. “We know there are solutions and alternatives to those high costs and it’s that value-added service we offer to our clients across all business sectors that they appreciate,” Lennox remarks. Many of the current employees had worked together in the past and now, after a fiveyear forced interlude, are back working together again. In addition to managing remarkable growth,

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Encore FX’s Domenic Pepe, Corporate FX Dealer (Toronto office) and Linda DeLuca, Business Development Executive (Windsor) are unparalleled experts in corporate foreign exchange payment and hedging solutions. Photo by Rod Denis.

the company recently launched Express. DeLuca indicates they “partner with the Motor City Community Credit Union and together leverage EncoreFX’s industry expertise as global payment and foreign exchange specialists. Their business members benefit by gaining access to our new Fintech platform, Express, allowing them to make international payments online in over 150 currencies.” “It’s a self-serve portal to some extent,” Lennox describes. “We have made a large investment in technology over the past year to better serve our clients and Express is on the leading edge of that technology.” EncoreFX recently hired George Zhu as Chief Information Officer to guide the company through changes and expansion in technology. The company’s Canadian offices are located in Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Saskatoon, Toronto, Vancouver, Kitchener, Mississauga, Winnipeg, and Windsor. EncoreFX recently opened U.S. offices in Chicago, Tampa, Minneapolis, Omaha, and Boston. In the U.S., foreign exchange businesses have to be licenced independently in every state. It’s a process that can take up to two years, and EncoreFX is currently licensed in 38 states with more to follow. “It’s been a lot of hard work to get to this point, but it’s been fun because we are working with like-minded people with a great sense of collaboration,” Lennox sums up. For more information, visit their website: EncoreFX.com.

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