BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 1 YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION FOR BUSINESSES & PEOPLE IN WINDSOR, ESSEX COUNTY & METRO DETROIT SINCE 1998 SEPTEMBER 2022 $3.50 WONDER WOMEN 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex have given back to the community for the past 10 years in a meaningful way. This amazing group of women have supported not just one local charity, but four different charities every year. How does a $100 donation turn into over $10,000 in one hour? It’s magic! Find out inside . . . PAGE Transition18To Betterness 25th Anniversary Sarah Ilijanich, Urban Field House Grant Writing Tips From Lauren Segedin PLUS The New Boozy Barbell And Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store; The Return Of St. Clair College’s Gourmet Food & Wine Gala And Children’s Fest, Presented By The Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) And Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association WomenWomenCelebratingInBusiness&TheCommunityCelebratingInBusiness&TheCommunity Debbie Loewen’s Therapy Dogs Of Southwestern Ontario Victoria Rubio, VR Success Services Children’s Author Céleste Kurcz The Parenting Biz Features Profiles On Local Women-Owned Companies 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex have given back to the community for the past 10 years in a meaningful way. This amazing group of women have supported not just one local charity, but four different charities every year. How does a $100 donation turn into over $10,000 in one hour? It’s magic! Find out inside . . . PAGE 18
the
owner
38 From The Bookshelf: French Children’s Author Céleste Kurcz Releases Her First Book 46 Biz Of The Month: Victoria Rubio, Owner/CEO, VR Success Services — Career & Business Advancement 4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Last Chance To Nominate For The 25th Annual Biz X Awards, Voting Poll Set To Launch Mid-Month 8 Rose City Politics: Do You Know Who You’re Voting For In The Upcoming City Of Windsor Municipal Election? 10 Front Lines 13 Heard On The Street 14 Newsflash The iconic “little white church” is a road marker for Windsor and Essex County residents. Keeping the history alive, a new Amherstburg business — appropriately called The Little White Church — is now a quintessential Air BnB that takes you to another place in each room you enter. Find out who is behind this boutique hotel experience and check out tidbits of other important news in the region. (Photo courtesy of Katlyn Paige Photos). 16 Food For Thought: The 28th Annual Gourmet Food & Wine Gala, September 23, At St. Clair College Centre For The Arts 31 Motivational Quotes With Danny 38 Event Profile: Children’s Fest Is Back After A Two Year Hiatus 39 Health Matters: Party On! Parenting Advice For Teenagers 40 In The Community: The CNSC (Croatian National Sports Club) Windsor Croatia 60th Anniversary Picnic And Soccer Games 42 A sk The Experts: Soak Your Troubles Away 44 Portfolio Corner: It’s Hunting Season 45 The Way It Was: Windsor’s 50 Year Aviation History Is Cleared For “Take Off” Celebrating Women In Business & The Community Celebrating Women In Business & The Community
29 Tech Bytes: Lauren Segedin, Grant Coaching Specialist
COVER LOCATION AND PHOTO DESCRIPTION: The membership of 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex is made up of women from all walks of life and every imaginable demographic. Many members have been involved since day one, back in February 2013. Photos of some of the members were taken at the Windsor Yacht Club meeting in May. Since only half of the entire group were able to attend in person, individual images are repeated here a few times. An additional shot of the group Co-founders — Maureen Lucas (left) and Liz Farano (also Vice President of Douglas Marketing Group) — was taken in the summer at the DMG office, 4960 Walker Road, Unit 2 in Windsor. All shots were digitally merged to create the mosaic you see on the front cover.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 3 TABLE OF VolumeSEPTEMBERCONTENTS202225•Issue8
18 Cover Story: 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex
For the past 10 years, the members of 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex have been changing lives in our community. Fundraising quickly and efficiently for area organizations and programs is their special super power! Who are these women and how do they make it work with their network 100% run by volunteers? 32
ON THE COVER — WONDER WOMEN — 18
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead
Six year old Kindergarten student Lilianne Moran is all smiles after giving her presentation on “What I want to be when I grow up.” Perhaps she will follow in her mother Laura Moran’s footsteps as of Crock-A-Doodle Windsor? Laura is one of six female (girl we shine spotlight on this courtesy of Jaimie O’Krafka).
26 Milestones: Transition To Betterness (T2B)
boss) entrepreneurs
In 1997, T2B was established by Tania Sorge and Doris Lapico, who were in similar personal situations and felt the need to change the experience of cancer for patients and families while in a hospital setting. Twenty five years later, with over 20 ongoing programs, their grassroots organization remains dedicated to providing comfort to patients and their families impacted by a life-altering illness. Pictured is Executive Director Amber Hunter at a Windsor Regional Hospital 2019 event in front of a board filled with donuts. (Photo courtesy of T2B photographer Zishan Ali).
30 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Four Wheels Four Paws Owner Debbie Loewen’s Volunteer Based, Therapy Dogs Of Southwestern Ontario
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32 The Parenting Biz: Meet Six Girl Bosses
14
28 X X Files: Sarah Ilijanich, Co-Owner Of Urban Field House
issue who are pursuing their own ambitions in the business world. (Photo
PHOTOGRAPHER AND CREATIVE ARTWORK: Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com).
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 20224 FUNNY STUFF BROUGHT TO YOU BY “Striving to provide our readers with a quality magazine that contains accurate information about the businesses and people that shape our border cities; and that challenges us to appreciate, explore and contribute to our communities.” PRESIDENT Deborah Jones VICE-PRESIDENT Colin Jones OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jack Rosenberg WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS Lori JuliannaStevenBaldassiBezaireBonnettDavidClarkAndreaGrimesDannyGautamaDaveHallDaveHallidayStevenMayoJoeMcParlandJimMurphyVictoriaRose Rose City Politics Panelists Lauren RebeccaSegedinWright PHOTOGRAPHERS Rodney L. Denis Photography Kim SanjaJussilaTabor PRODUCTION DESIGN Rae Marie MAILING & DELIVERY ADDRESS FOR Biz X ONLY P.O. Box 27035, 7720 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor, Ontario, N8T 3N5 e-mail: info@bizxmagazine.com Biz X MAGAZINE, OWNED BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. IS PUBLISHED EACH MONTH WITH THE EXCEPTION OF DOUBLE ISSUES IN THE SUMMER AND NOV/DEC. THE MAGAZINE IS ONLY SOLD ON NEWSSTANDS IN ONTARIO FOR $3.50 PER COPY PLUS HST AND PERSONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS MAY BE ORDERED FOR $45 PLUS HST FOR 10 ISSUES IN CANADA. THE ACCEPTANCE OF ADVERTISEMENTS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF THE PRODUCTS OR SERVICES ADVERTISED. THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED IN EDITORIALS AND CONTRIBUTIONS BY COLUMNISTS AND ADVERTISERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN ANY EDITORIAL COLUMNS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE PUBLISHER. INFORMATION IS TIMELY AS OF OUR PRINT DEADLINE. Biz X MAGAZINE IS A REGISTERED NAME OF 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION. CONTENTS COPYRIGHT ©2022 BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. CALL 519-979-3711 NOW TO BOOK YOUR AD! VISIT BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND ENTER YOUR EMAIL UNDER “SUBSCRIBE” IN THE TOP BAR TO RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION OF EACH ISSUE DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. AS WELL, 3,000 COPIES ARE USED FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS, CLIENTS, NEWSSTANDS AND DISPLAY RACKS IN WINDSOR ESSEX, CHATHAM, TILBURY & SARNIA. ADDITIONAL COPIES (3,000) OF CERTAIN ISSUES ARE DISTRIBUTED AT NO CHARGE TO VARIOUS LOCATIONS (TOURIST ATTRACTIONS, HOTELS, AIRPORTS, TRAIN STATIONS ETC.) IN METRO DETROIT & REGION OR DISTRIBUTED AT WINDSOR ESSEX TRADE SHOWS/EVENTS (NUMBER MAY INCREASE AT TIMES). FOR A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION ON OUR CIRCULATION VISIT: WWW.BIZXMAGAZINE.COM. SINCE 1998, Biz X IS DELIVERED FREE OF CHARGE TO EVERY REGISTERED BUSINESS IN WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY (10,000) AS DETERMINED BY CANADA POST. (NUMBER 03524213) Animals Make Everything Better, Even Monday Mornings Send your funny animal photo with your pet’s name to: deborah@bizxmagazine.com and it may be included here in an upcoming issue. Make sure it gives our readers a laugh! Brothers Albert Einswine (left) and Piggie Smalls, at their home the Pawnderosa, are happy as a pig(s) in mud together! Lexi is always ready to play ball. Poor Levi, his bowl of food is so close and yet so far. With those puppy dog eyes it’s easy to fall in love with Duke
Nominees are made public on the Biz X website when voting commences September 19 (noon) and continues through to September 23 (5 p.m.) Keep in mind the nomination and voting process is not a popularity contest — it only takes ONE nomination to be included in the voting poll. It is always best though to get a few people to nominate you or your business/organization to ensure your nomination was received by us.
There are eight staple categories every year — Outstanding New Business, Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year, Powerhouse Professional, Artist of the Year, Exceptional Social Enterprise, Best Little Retail Shop, Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot, and The Most Wonderful Event Of TheListedYear. below are the four major sections containing the 24 various categories. While the majority of nominations and votes come from Essex County residents, U.S. citizens and those living outside Essex County can nominate or vote in any category, since they could be clients of the business/organization or supporters of the business professional.
1. Outstanding New Business Of 2022 (Businesses that opened from Sept. 1, 2021 to Sept. 1, 2022.) *No restaurants/food trucks or bars can be included as they can participate in the Hospitality & Entertainment Categories.
5. Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year (A company in operation for over one year that has done something exceptional to take care of business.) *No restaurants/bars or retail shops as they have their own categories.
3. The nominee must be located (or reside) in Windsor, Essex County or Pelee Island and NOT be part of a national franchise/chain or nonprofit organization (except for categories in the PEOPLE section and category #24). The PEOPLE section (#8 to #13) is judged on the individual and not the company itself and those working for chains/franchises and non-profits are eligible to participate only in this section. An exception for category #24 is also allowed as many national organizations have local chapters hosting events.
The summer just flew by and the colder weather will soon be here. But for us at Biz X magazine, things are still heating up! At this time we are finalizing our award nominees and setting up the voting poll. And then we are busy assembling the 25th annual Biz X Awards edition and our awards gala, which returns now that pandemic restrictions have ended. So how does all this come to be?
Visit: BizXmagazine.com and our social media pages for the very latest information. Happy voting and good luck to all nominees!
This is the final call for nominations which close on September 9, 2022 at 5 p.m. on: BizXmagazine.com.
The next step involves the Judges meeting in the fall to determine the final winners. The Judges will not know the actual winners’ names, as voting during this meeting is done by secret ballot. The final results are posted in the November/December edition of Biz X magazine, released mid-November.
Please follow the rules* below to ensure that your nomination counts . . .
4. Every business in Essex County and Pelee Island (with the exceptions above) has the opportunity to win a Biz X Award. *However: NO MEDIA outlets or representatives can participate in any of the categories. You do not have to be an advertiser with the magazine to be nominated or to win. Judges are not told who is an advertiser (past or present) to ensure there are no biases or conflicts of interest.
MULTIPLE NOMINATIONS IN DIFFERENT CATEGORIES ARE NOT PERMITTED. We reserve the right to choose the best category for the company or individual when a nomination comes in. All nominees must be over 19 years of age.
During the voting period you can go online to: BizXmagazine.com and cast a vote for your choice to win the 2022 Biz X Award, in its respective category. You can also vote using your smart phone or tablet via our mobile friendly voting site. Remember that vote tallies are only a part of the overall selection process. All nomination forms received, along with company background information supplied and voting poll results, are then reviewed by the Biz X panel of Judges after the polls close.
By Deborah Jones
The 2022 awards categories were officially released in the July/August issue and on our website and repeated now in my September column to ensure everyone has as much time as possible to participate.
As we are now in the third decade of our annual awards, certain categories from years back are re-used to allow for new businesses in those industries to have the opportunity to be included.
2. Be certain that the company or individual you are nominating fits the category’s criteria.
4. Favourite Pump You Up Fitness Club (Focus on available services such as saunas, daycare, juice bar, massage therapy, extended hours etc.)
*Remember once a business is nominated in one category they cannot be nominated in any others.
In the past 25 years, Biz X has awarded over 775 recipients in all kinds of industries, so don’t be discouraged if a certain category is not listed as it may have been previously awarded. (Please check our website to see a list of past winners.)
VOTE NOW FOR YOUR SEPT.23,EVENTS,ORGANIZATIONS,BUSINESSES,FAVOURITEANDPEOPLESEPT.19(NOON)TO2022(5P.M.)ONBIZXMAGAZINE.COM NOMINATIONS END SEPT. 9, 2022 (5 P.M.)
Be sure to check your email account daily in September to see if we have sent you an automated email about an awards nomination.
3. Paint Pros That Brush To Perfection (Commercial painting contractors and/or house painters who are the best of the brushes and buckets!)
After you complete a nomination form, you will see on your computer screen we received it and also get a confirmation email showing it was properly submitted. If you DO NOT receive this email (check your spam folder too) that means we did NOT receive your nomination. Please check all sections were filled out, and you have answered the reCAPTCHA question, and re-submit the form. If you or your business/organization is fortunate to be nominated, you will be contacted to supply further details to us, online, about your qualifications, history, and to confirm information supplied by the nominators.
BUSINESS & SERVICE (*No chains/non-profits allowed)
2. Travel Agency That’s Definitely Going Places (Who to contact for a trip around the world, a vacation to a tropical destination and more.)
Once the polls open in September, be sure to toot your own horn. Do whatever you can to get your customers to vote for you on the Biz X website — use your own website and social media pages to tell everyone that you are nominated!
Nominations Close, Voting Begins In 25th Annual Biz X Awards
Readers can nominate the businesses, organizations, people and events in Windsor/Essex County and Pelee Island they believe are the best in each category. Whenever possible, please include some supporting evidence, for your nominee, on our online form. If you choose the wrong category, we reserve the right to move it to the appropriate category so that your nomination counts.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 5
1. Only nominate ONE company/person per award category. Businesses/organizations/people are only permitted to win one award each year.
*See rules in second column before nominating*
And now, once again, here are the . . . 2022 BIZ X AWARD CATEGORIES
thermal imaging, reputation etc.)
12. The Therapist Who Really Listens (Mental health is important at all stages of life. For those needing professional help, which counsellor is most effective?)
technology
11. All-Star #1 Kiddie Coach (A sports coach motivating the young to give it their all whether it be skating, swimming, hockey, soccer or more.)
16. Spectacular Specs Store (Whether you need eyeglasses to see up close or far away; contact lenses or some cool shades, this vision centre is the clear choice.)
8. 2022 Powerhouse Professional (A local business owner or top manager who has what it takes to keep the company/organization they own or work for, profitable in today’s tough times.)
21. Authentic Indian Food Shangri-La (Dine-in or take-out establishments specializing in tasty Indian dishes.)
23. Fantastic Family Fun & Games (Mini golf, climbing and trampoline facilities, laser tag, bowling, bubble soccer, horseback riding, go karts, arcade/simulation games etc.)
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 20226 NOMINATION DEADLINE: SEPT. 9, 2022 AT 5 P.M. VOTING BEGINS SEPT. 19 (NOON) UNTIL SEPT. 23, 2022 AT 5 P.M. ON: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM
22. Greatest Of The Great Outdoors Adventures (Fishing charter, paddle boarding, bike rental, boat cruise, winery tour . . . activities for outside only. All ages.)
18. Happiness Brews With This Coffee Roaster (Where to purchase ground coffee or whole beans to make the perfect cup of java at your workplace or home.)
6. Dream Team By Design (Commercial/residential firm.)
Architectural
architect
17. A+ Butcher Who “MEATS” Your Expectations (The Butcher’s Shop or market making the cut with a large selection of fresh meat and/or deli products and friendly counter service.)
*No online only retailers please.
*Remember once a business/organization is nominated in one category they cannot be nominated in any others.
Marvellous
19. Cannabis Dispensary Held In High Esteem (Consider the knowledge level of staff, variety of products, price, location, hours, store ambience and added perks like delivery). *Must be licenced by AGCO.
7. Meticulous & Home Co. (Consider training, use of like PEOPLE
experience, professional affiliations,
20. Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2022! (Can be a new or an existing restaurant or food truck that offers amazing cuisine, fair prices and has a unique, trendy atmosphere — take-out/delivery only is also acceptable.)
10. Exceptional Social Enterprise (A team of workers at a non-profit organization or registered charity making a big difference in our community.)
14. The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2022 (Open to all retailers with a storefront, good prices, superior customer service and selection.)
HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT (*No chains/non-profits allowed; exception only for events #24)
24. The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year (A nual runs, golf tournaments, motorcycle rides, charity fundraisers, festivals, fairs, trade shows etc. *EXCEPTION: Non-profits and charities can participate. *No parks, museums, city run organizations etc. for #22 and #23, sorry.
*NOTE: The business/organization the nominee owns or works for cannot be nominated elsewhere
*Remember once a business is nominated in one category they cannot be nominated in any others.
9. Artist Of The Year (For example a singer, painter, musician, sculptor, band, actor.)
13. Podcaster Taking It To The Next Level (Think about content; a regular podcast schedule and is he/she a knowledgeable, passionate story teller?) *No media can participate.
Inspection
15. Top Bakery On The Rise (From bread, cakes, muffins and pies to cookies, doughnuts, scones and more who has the nicest buns in town?)
RETAIL (*No chains/non-profits allowed)
*No authors or photographers please.
In total, there are 49 candidates vying for council seats, and just seven for mayoralty.Everyincumbent has declared his/her intention to run again, with the exception of Rino Bortolin in Ward 3 who declared he’sMayorout.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022
Voters need to properly assess who is seeking their vote and who they plan on providing their vote to. Those who are elected should set to implement Windsor Works as well as our master plans that continue to collect dust on municipal shelves, wasting the tax dollars of residents’ past who spent their hard earned money on policies that languish in Followingobscurity.theimproper and egregious dismissal of CAO Jason Reynar and the expected exit of acting-CAO Onorio Colucci, council must hire a new CAO and should consider Reynar when doing so, especially considering he’s expressed an interest in returning.
These are the questions voters must ask before casting a ballot that will decide the immediate to long-term future of the city in which we all live and reside. It’s your choice, and there are no wrong answers. Jon Liedtke is a fill-in on-air host for AM800 CKLW, Co-host and Producer of Rose City Politics, a member of the Canadian Association of Journalists and SAG-AFTRA, and plays trumpet in Windsor’s The Nefidovs.
WINDSOR 2022 ELECTION
W8
Many council candidates, specifically in Wards 3, 4 and 5 appear to vie for the same progressive votes, which could allow an ideologically opposed candidate to split them and win. There are also candidates who’ve made troubling statements either expressing support for the Ambassador Bridge blockade, anti-vaccination, or even tacitly endorsing transphobic hatred and harassment; none of which is good.
Drew Dilkens registered the week before the official deadline of August 19, but he’s been arguably campaigning for the past number of months, whether it be with the continued use of his podium, the funding announcement criticism on mayoral candidate Chris Holt, or the taxbill insert faux pas. Regardless of how many pronouncements he made suggesting he wasn’t campaigning and didn’t even know if he’d run, many council watchers correctly bet that he would. Holt made an impressive start with sophisticated campaign operations rolled out at the outset, as well as a signature policy plank, which pushed Dilkens to use his office to criticize prior to declaration; demonstrating a lack of integrity and ethics, if not the waste, or worse, abuse, of taxpayer dollars. If Holt remains steady, the city will have its first mayoral race in earnest in years.
For September 2022, the Rose City Politics panel asks Biz X readers if they know who they are voting for and why? With the municipal election next month (October 24, 2022), now is the time to take stock of the candidates and issues before you head to the polls.
indsor has a municipal election shaping up to be not only exciting, with numerous candidates, some with diverse ideologies and backgrounds, but also complemented by a mayoral race, which actually matters.
In this space the Rose City Politics panel will analyze, breakdown, and critique a local political issue that affects each and every Windsor resident.
The ballot question this year is status quo versus better. We know what the status quo brings — low tax-increases or “holding the line” on taxes which underfunds the budget by not at the very least keeping to inflation, a level residents expect their city to provide. We haven’t tried to do anything beyond the status quo for years, and it’s time for change. We don’t need risk, but we don’t need to only elect a council that seeks its own re-electoral prospects through policy decisions.
Windsorites, this is the election where change is possible. What do you want Windsor to look like next year, in five years, 10 years? Which candidates best align with your priorities? Do you want the status quo for, at the very least, the next four years?
Jon Liedtke
“We could have more gym space, but we thought that it would be fun to have a members’ lounge, where you relax after a workout and have a beer and play video games,” says Pinard, owner of Primary Social Club, The Dugout, The Patio Lounge, and Chatham Street Diner “It is a quirky idea and I love it.” With 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Pinard felt the project could work if the right people were involved, so he and Hyatt partnered with Keen Hernandez and Robbie Ibrahim to launch theHyatt’sidea. dream of opening the Boozy Barbell was about to become a reality.
New Gym Offers Traditional Services With A Relaxing Twist
Along with group classes and personal training, members are encouraged to enjoy a meal, try a protein shake, or enjoy a drink from the bar (always post-workout).
Photo by Sanja Tabor.
The Boozy Barbell also offers prepared meals and an in-house barbershop. Use of the lounge is available, not just post-workout, but VIP members can rent the space for their own events for free, as well as access the bartender and related services for a small fee. The partners call it a “one-stop shop”.
As with other service-based businesses, the Boozy Barbell launch was hindered initially by supply chain issues and then by forced“COVIDclosures.affected us badly,” Pinard reveals. “Initially, our opening was June 2021. Delays and shutdowns kept our doors closed until February 2022.”
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202210 FRONTLINES Personal trainer Dan Hyatt pitched the idea of a unique gym to bar owner Christian Pinard over a beer. His idea: create a space to have fun and connect after workouts.
Two personal trainers run the majority of fitness classes, tend to the daily duties of the gym, and run the bar. Ibrahim, a graduate of the University of Windsor and owner of Flash Frame Events, assists with operations and training. Hernandez and Hyatt focus mainly on personal training. Hernandez has been in the fitness industry for nearly a decade; a graduate of the University of Windsor, he has managed personal training departments for large gyms. Hyatt has managed fitness clubs and teams in his 14 years as a personal trainer and is certified in several areas, including senior wellness, fascial mobility, and pre-/post-natal fitness.
The gym is now in full swing with a growing membership and a friendly and knowledgeable workout environment.
Hernandez adds, “Not to mention that the energy we have in our club is unmatched!”
The Boozy Barbell is located at 1320 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. You can learn more about their services on: Facebook.com/TheBoozyBarbell22.
The Owners of Boozy Barbell all between the ages of 26 to 35 from left are: Dan Hyatt, Christian Pinard, Keen Hernandez, and Robbie Ibrahim (seated).
In early August 2022, 16 companies in our region received non-repayable contributions totalling $567,700, from WEtech Alliance (in partnership with Innovation Guelph), through the Government of Canada supported i.d.e.a. Fund (idea-fund.ca). The i.d.e.a. Fund was developed to help clean growth firms get the tools they need to succeed by providing financial and business advisory supports to develop or redesign green products, services, processes and technologies that reduce impacts to our environment and create made-in-Canada climate change solutions.
2022 WEtech Alliance i.d.e.a.
FUND Recipients
Companies in southern Ontario that focus on environmental impacts are vital to creating jobs and bringing new, innovative technologies to market, which continue Canada’s transition to a green economy.
THREESEVEN Consulting Services Inc., and WaveDirect Telecommunications. The Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), provided Innovation Guelph with $10 million to lead the delivery of the i.d.e.a. Fund in partnership with five Regional Innovation Centres — Haltech (Halton Region), Innovate Niagara, Innovation Factory (Hamilton), TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario (London) and WEtech Alliance (Windsor and Chatham-Kent). Fifty percent of the businesses receiving support through the fund will be owned or led by women and 30 percent owned or led by Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, Black communities, racialized communities and members of the LGBTQ2+ community. Applications for Cohort Two of the i.d.e.a. Fund open March 2023. For additional details and eligibility criteria, visit: WEtech-Alliance.com/idea.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 11 FRONTLINES
The WEtech Alliance Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent supported companies in Cohort One are: Advanced Hi-Tech Centre Ltd., Affinity Custom Designs Inc., CanGro AgriFoods Inc., Cedar Valley Selections Inc., DC Farms, Harbour Technologies, IPM Scoutek, Midstream Research Inc., ONtech Rapid Coatings Inc., Ortaliza Urban Farms, REEL Outline, Shantz Ag Products Ltd., SkiviYaan, TDL Systems,
“In recent years, we have seen our entrepreneurial community rise to every occasion they have encountered,” says Adam Castle, Director of Venture Services, WEtech Alliance. “The challenges in front of them proved insignificant compared to the innovative thinking that drove them forward through adversity. Climate change is a challenge that our entire world faces, and once again, entrepreneurs and their ability to adapt will be a major key to the perseverance of our communities, our economy, and our country. It is an honour to assist in the delivery of these funds, and in the execution of the brilliant, equitable, and environmentally sustainable projects that make up the first cohort of this transformative program.”
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202212
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202214 NEWSFLASH BROUGHT TO YOU BY
A former Musicland student and teacher, Bethany D’Alimonte, has recently been given the opportunity to take over Musicland as her own establishment and transform it into an arts hub for musicians in Amherstburg and Windsor Essex. She assumed ownership of the business — situated at 59 Richmond Street in downtown Amherstburg — as of July 12. Musicland is a recording studio, lesson centre, retail and repair shop. There is also a stage inside for live music on Fridays and Saturdays with the occasional Sunday matinee. “My dream for this place is to enhance the music scene closer to home while providing a space for others to perform,” says D’Alimonte. “I’m excited to see where this takes me, and am very grateful for the opportunity to follow in my father’s footsteps by taking over the store that he initially opened in 1986.” The original owners of the business, John D’Alimonte and Trevor Marshall, changed the local music scene by educating future musicians in the area, as well as playing in the band Revolver four to five nights a week. As the years went on, and the music scene in Windsor was slowly dying, John decided to leave the music business and branch out to a new career, leaving Marshall as the sole proprietor. Now in 2022, things have come full circle for Bethany who started piano lessons at Musicland in the early 2000s. She also began taking vocal lessons from Pete Palazzolo at the Canadian Conservatory of Music in Windsor and started writing her own music and producing with him from his studio. “He taught me everything that I needed to know to sing, and to teach the future rock stars in the area as well,” she expresses. In 2014, Bethany landed her first job at Musicland and then eventually started teaching vocals, piano and ukulele there in 2019. This same year, she started performing in bars and restaurants around Windsor Essex and has put out eight songs — four of which are on her first EP, titled More Time, which came out in 2021.
For further information on the shop go to: Musicland-dev.github.io.The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County Inc. 20th annual Face to Face campaign kicked off August 15 and runs until September 30, 2022. Canvassers are pounding the pavement and generous sponsors are on board to support the cause to make sure this year’s Face to Face campaign is another resounding success! Funds raised support the Hospice, so they can continue to provide care, programs and services at no cost to patients and their loved ones. The 2022 Face to Face campaign (supported by YourTV and Face to Face TV Host John Fairley) operates similarly to previous years (asking 10 people for $10 each) with canvassers able to collect donations both online and in person. Community members can show their support by making a pledge to a specific canvasser, or supporting the cause as a whole, either online or in person. To access the canvasser kit or for more details, log onto: TheHospice.ca.
THE RUNDOWN
The Comfort Inn South Windsor hotel participates in the award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty rewards program, rated a top rewards program by both USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards and by U.S. News & World Membership is free and offers fast rewards, instant perks, and exclusive member rates when booking directly at: ChoiceHotels.com. To make a reservation at Windsor’s award-winning hotel, located at 2955 Dougall Avenue, visit their website: ChoiceHotels.com/cn318.Congratulationstothe winners of the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC), 17th annual Business Excellence Awards, presented in late June. “We had a great turnout of 174 people and a lovely warm evening under the tent at GL Heritage Brewing Co., to recognize and celebrate excellence in the Amherstburg business community after two difficult years of COVID Public Health measures,” states Anne Creery, General Manager. ACOC President Dan Gemus emceed and Town of Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo brought greetings to the guests. The list of recipients is as follows: Business of the Year: Bright Child Montessori; Business
The Little White Church, a boutique hotel experience, officially opened in April 2022. Long time friends Drew Coulson and Greg Grondin, had a vision for the iconic Little White Church at the end of Howard Avenue in Amherstburg. Keeping the history alive, the more than 100 year old Little White Church was turned into a themed-room Air BnB. “The area was in desperate need of accommodations and since being inspired by the Retro Suites in Chatham, the church was set up beautifully for this experience,” says Coulson. “Plus Greg and I have spoken about doing a project together and this seemed to be a great fit — wine country and all.” The hotel is located at 7860 Essex County Road 20 near Dancing Swallows Vineyard, GL Heritage Brewing Co. and Ure’s Country Kitchen, Ice Cream Parlour and Mini Golf. “Both of us are business owners in the town, and we want to see the town grow into its potential,” adds Coulson. “This offers a solution to one of those missing puzzl e pieces. Personally, my design and build experience was very helpful in bringing this all together.” For more details and to see a brief description of the suites available refer to: TheLittleWhiteChurch.com.
In true fashion, guests staying in the True North suite at The Little White Church are dressed in Canadian Lumberjack attire enjoying a delicious pizza from OG Pizza in Harrow. Photo courtesy of Katlyn Paige Photos.
NEW IN BIZ HALL OF FAME
The Comfort Inn South Windsor hotel — for the fourth year in a row — has earned a prestigious Gold Guest Satisfaction Award from Choice Hotels Canada. The hotel’s General Manager, Justin Barker, was also recently awarded the 2021 APEX Marketing Star Award for his outstanding local marketing efforts. The Gold Award designation goes only to the top 10% of hotels in the Choice Hotels Canada portfolio, representing a tremendous accomplishment. As one of the top properties operating under the Comfort Inn brand, the hotel’s staff has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to superior guest service. Award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports. “It is an honour to work with a team of professionals who consistently exceed expectations of our guests and our franchisor,” says William Zhao, President and Owner of WBSZ Holdings carrying on business as Comfort Inn South Windsor. “Thank you to my GM, Justin Barker, and to our great team for their dedication to excellence.” Brian Leon, CEO, Choice Hotels Canada comments: “Congratulations to William, Justin, and the team at Comfort Inn South Windsor. Winning a Gold Award is an achievement in itself, but winning it four years in a row shows consistency, commitment, and dedication.”
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Legacy: Nuccelli’s Frozen Yogurt; New Business of the Year: The Panetteria; Employer of the Year: The Garage Gym; Professional of the Year: Dr. Beth Cozens, Fort Malden Animal Hospital; Entrepreneur of the Year: Anna Marano and Simon Briggs, The Panetteria; Non-Profit/ Charitable: Fighting Island Boxing Club; Tourism/Hospitality: GL Heritage Brewing Co.; Community Service/Involvement: Ron Giofu, River Town Times; Welcoming Accessibility: Libro Credit Union and Most Attractive Improvement: Fieldcraft Holdings Inc. View a complete member directory on: AmherstburgChamber.com.
FOOD FOODTHOUGHTFORFORTHOUGHT
According to John Fairley, St. Clair College’s VP College Communications & Community Relations, and part of the Gala Organizing Committee: “This specially prepared gourmet five course menu has each course named to highlight three front line worker services which will be honoured during the evening. Chiefs from some of those services, including Chief Bruce Krauter of Essex-Windsor EMS; Chief Stephen Laforet of Windsor Fire & Rescue Services and Chief Jason Bellaire of Windsor Police Services, join College President Patti France as co-hosts.”
Created to support great causes, the gala takes place at the Alumni Skyline Room of the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, on the riverfront in downtown Windsor. With the possibility of 500 in attendance this year, they are raising funds for the anticipated new acute care hospital for the Windsor Essex region.
Centre For The Arts
West,
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The first course on the menu includes an Antipasto of Windsor Essex Grown and Crafted Items, Pearson Farms Wagyu Carpaccio, Marinated Summer Vegetables, Fresh Galati Cheese Mozzarella, Robbie’s Chorizo Sausage, Marinated Highline Mushrooms, Eatery 101 (the college’s teaching restaurant) Baguettes and Imported Prosciutto.
A16fter a four-year hiatus, the highly touted 28th Annual Gourmet Food & Wine Gala is back in grand fashion on Friday, September 23, 2022, with a shiny new menu to make your mouth water and an entertainment extravaganza everyone will enjoy!
The 28th Annual Gourmet Food & Wine Gala
ISSUE
The Essex-Windsor EMS course is Taleggio and Romano Cheese Ravioli, Butter, Parmigiana Reggiano, Truffle Scented Porcini. Windsor Fire & Rescue Services items include, Butter Poached Lobster, Sauce Cardinal, Mizuna and Arugula and Spicy GarlicNextRouille.upfor the Windsor Police Service section of the evening, guests can enjoy Slow Roasted Wagyu Striploin, Chimichurri, Benedictine Blue Cheese Dauphine Potatoes and Baby Root Vegetables. And for all those with a sweet tooth, the final course — The Siren — includes Vanilla Bean Bavarian Cream, Strawberry Compote, Flourless Chocolate Cake and White Chocolate Crumble. As for beverages, all five courses are paired with local wines. St. Clair College 201 Riverside Drive Windsor By David Clark Photos courtesy of St. Clair College THIS FEATURES… Students enrolled in the Hospitality Hotel & Restaurant program gain valuable work experience by learning and practicing food preparation service at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, (server pictured) and Eatery 101 at the south Windsor campus. St. Clair College Culinary Management and Hospitality students, photographed in their best attire, are the real engine that drives the success at the banquets held at the centre.
Photo/KurhanStockCan©
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Tickets are $250 per person with tables of 10 available and can be purchased by calling 519-252-6579 (Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) or purchased online at: ChryslerTheatre.com.
The students are working behind the scenes and serving the guests for a memorable evening with several co-hosts, outlined above.
In addition to all the gourmet food and wine offerings, this is an evening that celebrates the students from many of the programs of the college, but especially those in Culinary Management and Hospitality.
“It is exciting to see the students in the Culinary Management program come downtown to our kitchen to work with us as a team,” explains Executive Chef Carmine Incitti of the St. Clair College Centre of the Arts. “The gala is one of the premiere events to fully engage our students who are part of the planning right from the beginning to the final execution of the evening. The experience derived by this event is a chapter in a student’s book of learning in their career in culinary arts. To see the faces of all of our students at the end of the evening embracing the applause from the guests is truly wonderful.”
France adds: “The college’s Gourmet Food & Wine Gala has always been an opportunity to celebrate all that is St. Clair College. From the time guests arrive, throughout the evening until they walk out the door, they will have experienced the real hands-on learning, which St. Clair College has been a part of since 1967. An exquisite gourmet dinner with entertainment from students, including the music theatre students, fashion design students and members of the St. Clair S’aints with Jeff Burrows, will also grace the stage on this spectacular evening.” So, be prepared to enjoy the spectacle that so many are putting together for this year, support the students and a worthy community cause as well! Doors open for a welcoming reception with wine tasting beginning at 6:15 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. The event is black-tie optional.
Since the students plan the annual food and wine gala when it comes to preparing and plating the dishes such as these scrumptious desserts the kitchen is humming with activity. After all, it’s their time to shine and impress all the guests in attendance!
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022
At a work meeting in 2006, Karen Dunigan learned of a local need: new mothers were bringing home babies and having them sleep in boxes or dresser drawers because they could not afford cribs; some of the children did not survive.
Dunigan then launched 100 Women Who Care (now part of the 100 Who Care Alliance) and started the format that is used today by nearly 900 chapters, comprised of women, men, kids, and teens.
100 Women Who Care WindsorEssex attendees vote on their preferred presentation and at the end of the night, they write a $100 cheque directly to the charity with the most votes.
Lucas then met with Liz Farano, Vice President of Douglas Marketing Group (DMG), and at a group session with 70 people willing to join, the two founded the Windsor-Essex chapter.
Dunigan thought about who could write a big cheque, but then realized that she probably knew 100 women who could each give $100. In a one-hour meeting with friends, she raised $12,800 to solve the local need.
ow can an organization with no staff, no funding, and minimal guidelines raise over $400,000 in 10 years?
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The first meeting of the 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex chapter took place in February 2013 (year one). It kick-started 10 more years (and counting) of women coming together to help raise much-needed funds for area organizations.
The chapter meets four times a year — in February, May, August and November — so the commitment is $400 annually (whether you attend or not).
A group of four friends can also connect to donate $25 each, but share their single vote. That’s it.
“It’s a grassroots organization that supports other charitable organizations,” Lucas indicates. “We handle no money and the member gets the donation receipt.”
Denis.RodbymeetingMayClubYachtWindsortheatattendanceinmembersofShotsHead
COVER STORY By Victoria Rose
In 2012, Lucas, President of LucasWorks! Recruitment & Human Resource Specialists, was in London visiting one of her office locations. Her branch manager mentioned the 100 Women organization and suggested starting a Windsor chapter.
Lucas sold her business in 2017 and is now the Entrepreneur In Residence at the University of Windsor EPICentre She donates her time along with a few other members to do the administrative work, like Chantelle Meadows, the group’s Community Liaison; Meadows’s daughter also does all of the Facebook Live charity draws.
It’s simple. Actually, that is the answer. The simplicity of 100 Women Who Care is the reason for its success.
A typical meeting starts with three presentations from local charities.
“It’s the concept of bringing women together, listening to charities, writing a cheque directly to that charity, and doing it in a one-hour time frame — that’s the only guiding principle of it,” explains Maureen Lucas, Co-founder of the local 100 Women Who Care chapter.
The local chapter is based on the original 100 Women Who Care group that was founded in Jackson, Michigan.
She asked what cribs and bedding would cost to help those in need — $10,000.
A Decade Of Grassroots Giving Seeks To Make A Bigger Impact In The Future
The group also ensures that it gives to a wide variety of charities that reach the entire community as well, including health, animals, sport, safety, addictions, and youth.
On May 12, 2022 at the Windsor Yacht Club, a cheque for $13,000 was presented by 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex to Bryan and Melba Bedard of the Katelyn Bedard Bone Marrow Association. Photo by Rod Denis.
Whereas it was great to see the impact the groups had, Lucas hopes that some leaders will step forward to bring those groups back.
Meeting space is donated by in-kind sponsors (such as the Windsor Yacht Club and the Ciociaro Club) and food is either donated or paid for by a group member. This year, St. Clair College is a diamond sponsor, adding a $1,000 donation to each of the four meetings, along with providing food and meeting space. Other Companies Who Care are: Tina Pickle and Mark A. Eugeni of Manor Realty’s The Legal Edge Team, RBC Dominion Securities, The Cabinet Studio (Canada) Inc., Logic Executive Search & Workplace Solutions, REALTOR Nick Bibic of Buckingham Realty, WFCU (Windsor Family Credit Union), Green Shield Canada and TD Bank Along with St. Clair College, these sponsors will also donate $1,000 a year to be added to member donations. Many of the group’s current members have been involved since that first group session.
“The absolute joy that every single woman has in being a part of something whereby, in contributing $100 in one hour, that becomes a $10,000 donation to a charity,” says Lucas. “You feel like you have a real impact and you know that what you are giving the money to is a very specific project or a program that’s running or an underfunded program.”
“That was hugely satisfying, to know that we supported an organization that gave athletes a chance to compete,” Lucas states. “Every single charity has something so special and that’s why they get in our hearts and that’s why we’re writing the cheques . . . because we feel so strongly about what we’re doing to help them.”
For 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex, the pandemic affected them as well.
Since winners come to the next meeting to collect their big cheque, WECHS came with some of the dogs who were saved. LaSalle/Windsor Special Olympics was another memorable recipient in 2017. One of the athletes went to the world stage to compete and came home with three medals.
Lucas comments that the model gives more of a hands-on feeling about where the money is going, especially the charities that invite the group to come out and see their donations in action.
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Helping charity is what it is all about!
So, what has kept the two founders and others committed to the cause for a decade?
Along with being the Co-founder of the group, Farano and her team at Douglas Marketing Group contribute everything web and graphic design related. “They have made us look good for 10 years, which has been a wonderful and long commitment,” says Lucas.
There is also the added reward of supporting so many worthy causes in Windsor Essex. “I love that we support them all,” she expresses. “We get to not just focus on one need in our community, but we get to share the wealth amongst all the great demand that these different charities have.”
In the meantime, she wants people to know that anyone (not just women) is welcome at their meetings and will be greeted warmly.
When asked which stories of giving really stand out, there are so many in her opinion.
As in many other cities, 100 Men Who Give A Damn and 100 Kids Who Care were created based on the success of 100 Women Who Care. Unfortunately, it was a struggle to keep those branches going and maintain the momentum during the pandemic.
One heart-warming presentation was from the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society (WECHS) who talked about the animals not adopted; the funds were used to keep the animals in the shelter.
“Women kept reaching out to say, ‘I really hope we can keep this going’, so we did.”
For the new format, charities were asked to submit video presentations; the attendees could watch the videos during a Facebook Live session, and then vote online. Now back to in-person meetings, the group is hoping to bump up the quarterly donations to $15,000.
Photo by Rod Denis.
As part of the group’s 10-year anniversary, they are including Companies Who Care to raise the giving level, but hope that beyond this year they can sustain that amount through growing their membership.
“We just knew that we didn’t want to stop what we were doing,” says Lucas.
After COVID-19, that meant keeping the virtual option available for members who did not want to come to a live meeting.
longer able to meet in person, and with the June 27th Miracle food drive being promoted, they emailed members and suggested that a donation to a food bank would be a great way to keep the mission going. Then they went virtual.
Lucas says that it is important to be adaptable and the organizers watch trends in giving to see what they should be doing to ensure a great experience for the donors.
It’s all about engagement and momentum.
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“We want to keep going and keep things fresh,” Lucas emphasizes. “We try to do fun things at the events. Our goal is to keep this group thriving so that $50,000 goes into the community that would not otherwise go into our community.” That growth goal should be attainable based on the loyalty of the group’s Over 80 women came back together for the first in-person meeting of the 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex group in two years, at the Windsor Yacht Club. Needless to say there were plenty of hugs and conversations to catch up on!
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Let’s now find out from seven women why they became members of the organization and what stands out for them.
expand and have satellite chapters throughout Essex County to maximize the positive impact on our local communities.
Marla Coffin was attracted to the idea of making a heavy contribution in a short amount of time. She joined the group four years ago and continues to participate due to the ease of donating and the high impact in the community.“Ilove hearing about organizations that I am not familiar with, that don’t necessarily get the level of exposure that well-known ones do,” says Coffin. “One of those that had not been previously familiar to me was Sleep in Heavenly Peace This organization makes and provides beds to children who are without . . . what a special thing to be able to provide a child. More children go without than the average person may think.” Coffin looks forward to growing the group and its contributions: “We are making a difference in Windsor Essex, and other women can too!”
Mila Lucio joined the group as a simple way to give back and enjoys the positive environment to this day. The very first meeting for 100 Women Who Care WindsorEssex was in February 2013 with 70 in attendance. The first charity selected to receive their donation was the Windsor Residence For Young Men. A cheque presentation for $7,600 took place at the May meeting with (from left): Maureen Lucas, Cathy Mombourquette, Greg Goulin (charity contact), Erin Mammarella and Liz Farano. Photo courtesy of Maureen Lucas.
The mother and daughter team joined because they had heard amazing stories of the organization in Michigan and then found out there was a Windsor chapter.
Tereza and Leigh Hello are celebrating six years with the 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex chapter.
current membership and the ability to tap into their networks.
The Cabinet Studio (Canada) Inc. Marla PresidentCoffin&CEO MARDA Management Inc, Huron Shores Property Management Mila ExecutiveLucioVice President, Human Resources & Social Impact Green Shield Canada
Leigh KitchenTerezaandHelloDesigners/Owners
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The Hellos hope to see the organization
“We were ecstatic and wanted to do our part to help our local organizations!” Leigh expresses. “We stay for many reasons. We love learning about different charities in the community and being able to help grow their initiatives. We also love meeting up with the rest of the ladies. Three months fly by and it’s nice to catch up with friends during the networking portion of the meeting.”
Along with giving, the Hellos also were able to highlight a charity that is close to their“Ourhearts.main charity for our family and our company is Crohn’s and Colitis Canada and more specifically our Windsor Chapter,” they indicate. “We were able to present our charity to the group and we were lucky enough to be awarded the donations ($10,700)! One of the benefits that came from that meeting, that we didn’t anticipate, were the friendships and conversations we had as a result. People still come up to us during the meetings to share with us their Crohn’s story of either themselves or their loved ones. The awareness piece is really powerful!”
At the 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex meeting on August 17 at the Ciociaro Club, the group presented a cheque for $14,100 to Gesstwood Camp & Education Centre. In the front row from left are: members Chantelle Meadows and Liz Farano; Gesstwood’s Executive Director Karen Seguin and board member Shirley Horton; and members Mary Webb and Maureen Lucas. At this meeting the group also selected Life After Fifty as the next organization to receive their donation. Photo courtesy of the local chapter.
“Given that children make up a significant portion of the clients they serve, it is wonderful that they had a focus on making life just a bit more comfortable for the children and women seeking shelter,” Lucio notes. She continues by stating: “My wish for the future is that all communities have a chapter of 100 Women, and that there are wonderful people in each community who bring these groups together.”
One of Lucio’s favourite gifts was to the Welcome Centre Shelter for Women who used their $15,000 donation to create an outdoor space at their new location on Tuscarora Street.
“I stay because of the positive energy and the empowerment I feel as a wonderful group of women come together to empower our communities,” she says. “Not only is it a place where we raise money, it’s a place of partnership, mentorship, and allyship, which makes me really proud to be part of this wonderful group.”
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Pickle is grateful the group was still able to support the community and its increased need for help during the pandemic. She hopes the organization continues to donate to those in need and continues to grow. “The more women who care, the more support we can provide,” Pickle expresses.
Parak has been a member of the group since the first meeting. “I love the concept of a one-hour meeting and choosing a charity and writing my $100 cheque,” she says. “For me it is very important that the funds go directly to the chosen charity.” Her favourite donation was to a women’s shelter that Parak was volunteering with at the“Itime.knew that would be a great help to them,” Parak acknowledges. “Donations to women and children are always my first choice.”
According to Pickle it is a truly inspiring partnership and choosing one donation story to highlight would be difficult. “Every story/request for help has touched our hearts in many ways,” she mentions. “It can be very difficult at times to choose just one of the three choices to receive the assistance that day as they are all special in their own way.”
“Being a part of 100 Women Who Care quickly became an important part of my life,” Smith points out. “I have always been proud to participate in an organization whose sole purpose is to give back to ourNow,community.”10years later, she has lost her sister and one of those friends, but continues to participate.
Rookaya Parak Principal (Retired) Greater Essex County District School Board
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202224Rookaya
Tina Pickle is another long-standing member of 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex.Shejoinedbecause she wanted to support people in need in the community and the organization’s vision was exactly that.
“It is very rewarding to me to know that our group has donated to both of the foundations that support research into the causes of their deaths,” she says. Smith also likes seeing the impact the donations make overall. “Giving my $400 donation on an annual basis is not difficult when I realize that, as a group, we are donating over $40,000 annually,” she states.
Jan Smith joined the second meeting after her sister extended the invitation and ended up inviting two friends of her own.
“I love the concept that makes this
Tina REALTORPickle Manor Windsor Realty Ltd. TheBrokerageLegalEdge Team Jan andTeacherSmith(Retired)TravelAgent Magic Carpet Travel Lucio concludes: “For Windsor Essex my wish is that we continue to support charities that need some extra help to make the difference they know they can, and that we do it by continuing to grow our membership well beyond the 100 we first imagined.”
From left: Douglas Marketing Group’s Liz Farano and Kay Douglas, with Marilyn Beckham (charity contact) and Maureen Lucas, present a cheque for $10,000 to Forgotten Harvest Canada, the charity with the most votes, by 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex members at the second meeting held by the group in May 2013. Photo courtesy of Maureen Lucas. possible and I remain committed to the idea that we can make a difference by working together.”
“It’s about the powerful joy of giving to others,” says Maureen Lucas, but adds it’s also about what she calls “the efficiency and smartness of women. We don’t have a lot of time and we don’t have a lot of energy, so we’ve made an organization where they can show up, hear about the charity, write their cheque, and go home. It’s all done in one hour and we never go over.”
Betty Ann Valente Associate Wealth Advisor (Retired) RBC Dominion Securities Sechopoulos Valente Group
“There are so many charities that I didn’t even know existed,” she mentions.Numerous local organizations have touched her heart as they share stories of helping so many people. Valente does enjoy that she gets to go to some of these charities to see what they are all about, such as learning about Sleep in Heavenly Peace at a meeting and then joining them on a build day.
Respecting that simple format means our community will benefit for another 10Theyears.latest charities to receive a donation were Gesstwood Camp & Education Centre (May 2022) and Life After Fifty (August 2022) . . . who will be next? To learn more about this incredible group, nominate a charity, or see a list of past recipients, visit their website: 100WomenWindsor.com.
Betty Ann Valente has also been with the group since it started in Windsor after joining as a way to give back to the many great organizations in the community.
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As mentioned, the total commitment from each woman is four hours and $400 a year.
So what is the best way to sum up everything you have just read about 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex?
As a recent retiree, Valente is looking forward to volunteering with one of the new organizations that she has learned about at their meetings.
The Power Of Four Hours And $400 A Year
For patients facing life-altering illnesses, simple acts of kindness can provide a bridge between the comforts of home and hospital stays. That’s the goal of Transition to Betterness (T2B), a local charity that fundraises to refurbish rooms at area hospitals and provide comfortbased programs from paediatric to palliative care. In 1997, after spending time visiting loved ones in a clinical hospital setting, Doris Lapico and Tania Sorge created T2B and held a fundraising gala. The funds were used to refurbish two oncology rooms and improve the comfort level that cancer patients (and families) experienced during their hospital stay.
“We throw a good party,” states Hunter, noting that while entertainment is the focus of things like their annual gala, there’s a misconception that it’s what the organization focuses on. “People may not recognize the many, many different layers of comfort we provide to the community. These events fund what’s really important — patient care and comfort.” For more information on events and programming, visit: T2B.ca.
Along with the volunteer base, T2B operates with a staff of six, including the Executive Director, Office Manager, Program & Volunteer Manager, Finance Officer, Marketing & Fundraising Manager, and Marketing & Creative Content Manager.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202226 Biz X magazine is now in its 25th year of publishing and since our success is due to the support of area businesses and organizations — and of course our readers, advertisers and suppliers — we are celebrating with others also achieving this amazing milestone. This column features a local business, biz pro or organization, recognizing 25 years of operation in 2022. To date we have profiled The Bloomin’ Gardener, International Art Designs, Daniel Hofgartner of Buckingham Realty, Sound Foundry Studios and now T2B. Photo/GankoStockCan©
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Providing Comfort To Patients And Families In Windsor Essex
Hunter says that she champions fundraising while overseeing the day-to-day operations, but everyone works collaboratively to get things done. She feels that team connectivity gives the organization a grassroots feel, but the staff’s skill set allows them to have a huge presence for raising their profile and funds.
For 20 years, volunteers have made fleece blankets for patients to use during their stay and bring home. T2B often receives feedback that after a family member has passed, the blanket is kept nearby as a reminder of the comfort it brought their loved one. Other programs include a Comfort Cart with snacks and beverages, monthly Holiday Meals for families in the palliative unit, Back the Pack backpacks with toys and games for patients in isolation, Paediatric Art Cart, TV Services, Parking Passes, and more.
. . .
T2B’s impact in Windsor Essex is significant with more than $15 million being raised to support the community and provide care at three area hospitals: Windsor Regional Hospital, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, and Erie Shores HealthCare
Hunter credits the charity’s fundraising success to the great relationships formed with the hospitals, a dedicated donor base, a hardworking Board of Directors (of which the founders are now members), and a volunteer base of nearly 300.
This summer they unveiled the Dr. Lisa Ventrella-Lucente Healing Garden located at Grace Healthcare
By Victoria Rose
Hôtel-Dieu
While many programs continued during the pandemic, T2B’s fundraising was hindered by restrictions on their big money-making events: in-person gatherings. T2B is happy to celebrate the return of their gala January 28, 2023 and increase funding for their campaigns.
Amber Hunter (centre) stands with their amazing army of volunteers at a past holiday party. Photos courtesy of T2B photographer Zishan Ali.
Transition To Betterness (T2B)
“We have an amazing army of volunteers that help us with all of our events and programs,” she expresses. “We are still a small organization, but our volunteers allow us to make a big impact.”
T2B programs are thoughtful and based on providing a softer side to healthcare, but Hunter adds they are also founded on a direct need and make a difference for the patients and their“Itfamilies.allowsus to bring many levels of comfort to the community,” she states. “These are not just average programs. They come from a very specific need in our community. They are askedOnefor.”especially to note is the Dr. Michelle Prince Comfort Care Tote program. Fifteen hundred totes (a bag filled with handpicked items that Dr. Prince found beneficial during her own cancer journey) are handed out each year in her memory.
“It’s a simple project, but it’s that little kindness that somebody thought of them,” saysHunterHunter.also highlights the popularity of the Comfort Blanket program.
T2B Co-Founder Tania Sorge and Doris Lapico, Co-Founder and President pose with Executive Director Amber Hunter at Gala 20 in 2017.
“Twenty-five years later, we have refurbished a full palliative care unit (The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Wing), a pediatric unit, refurbished rooms on the oncology unit, we have a home in Hospice Village, and have countless capital projects,” indicates Amber Hunter, Executive Director of T2B. “We’ve grown into those projects and added more than 20 programs based on comfort.”
“I think the thing that takes us to the next level is the service that we provide to the couple, through the moment of inception to the very day of their wedding,” declares Ilijanich, adding their “one-on-one attention to detail” makes them second to none.
“I was able to build and create an incredible business that is reaching out to so many amazing engaged couples,” Ilijanich says. “I truly do love my job and being a part of their wedding day is truly a gift.”
“We offer a concierge service to the couple, which has been a huge hit with our couples and is unique to this industry,” she notes. “We help coordinate with the desserts, the photography, and if they need anything at all — we even run to grab lunch for the wedding party. Even though the couple is hosting an event, we want them to be able to enjoy the day along with their guests.”
Read further details about all their services, menus and view a photo gallery on: UrbanFieldHouse.com. LOCAL WORK YOU BY Sarah Ilijanich
any couples dream of their wedding day, and getting every detail just right Urban Field House, fairy tales do come true after all, and a vision of a whimsical wedding could certainly become reality.
“While we are a wedding venue, we also help you plan your big day,” explains Ilijanich. “Our venue acts as a one-stop shop with an in-house photographer, a DJ, a chef, and a decorator, and they all have an office on-site.”Theirgoal is to make sure engaged couples have a “stress-free planning experience” for their wedding.
And to ensure the couple actually enjoys their special day, they offer some extra pampering on the day of the wedding.
XX FILES PROFILING
It’s clear that service is always top of mind for their entire team. Ilijanich also points out that servers will even go to the bar for guests and do a pouring service at the table if requested.
“I think good entrepreneurship is pivoting and understanding that all the things that have led up to each moment are there to teach you lessons and guide you through your life and your purpose,” Ilijanich states. “Sometimes life shows you another path and you have to be open to it so that you can create new opportunities.”Shefeelsfortunate enough to have a wonderful, supportive family to help navigate through this crazy time in their lives.
At the end of the night, after all the guests go home, the bride and groom can stay at the Urban Cottage — a great addition to the grounds, says Ilijanich. Tucked just steps away from the venue, surrounded by serene scenery, the newly renovated cottage includes a kitchen, bathroom, sitting area and masterUrbansuite.Field House opened in 2017.
WOMEN AT
BROUGHT TO
By Rebecca Wright
Originally, they bought the building to make it into a theatre hall and planned to hold weddings here and there to help subsidise the programming.Whilethere were 263 kids receiving music, voice and acting lessons in the building, along with 19 teachers, it all had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. Thus, the focus shifted to only hosting weddings.
Sarah Ilijanich and her husband operate Urban Field House, a full service venue for weddings, galas and event. Photo courtesy of Sarah Ilijanich. Dreams really can come true for couples having their wedding at the Urban Field House a hidden gem in the Lakeshore area. The rustic reception centre features in-house catering, décor, photography, DJ services and lots more. As well, marriage ceremonies can take place on the grounds and a honeymoon cottage is also available. Photo courtesy of Leah Marie Photography.
“Our staff is like a family,” she expresses.
“We all get along and want the best for the couples and their guests. As a team we are able to answer all questions along the way, guide them in the right direction and help them develop their dream wedding and to ensure that it gets implemented.”
“We wanted to create a different type of ambiance for weddings where every person who walks through the door has an experience, not just attending another wedding,” indicates Owner Sarah Ilijanich, who owns the Urban Field House with her husband Steve Located on three acres of property at 1203 Faith Drive in Emeryville, this arts and events centre boasts a “shabby chic vibe that makes for the perfect motif of a rustic destination wedding.”
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202228
The venue boasts a reception hall, full kitchen, two bars, a bridal suite and a groom’s room — all newly renovated.
Their in-house chef takes their cuisine to the next level, and Ilijanich says they’re constantly getting positive reviews on how good the food is, from, not just the couples, but guests as well.
The stunning landscape — perfect for capturing those romantic keepsake photos — includes a barn wood wall, a bridge and a cove of trees that makes for a beautiful backdrop.Theirenchanted outdoor ceremonies are amongst the trees, with handmade barn wood benches and details like string lights, drapery, vintage tables, sparkler send-offs and more.
Creating Marriages Made In (Event) Heaven
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 29
Tip #4: Read With A Pencil Closely read through the grant application to avoid missing any details. Use a pencil to underline key ideas or phrases, making sure you are both eligible for the grant and that it meets your needs.
Provide specific details, but get to the point. Adding unnecessary words is notGrantneeded.writing can be both an art and a science, and it does take some practice. Hopefully these tips will help you start the process successfully. Best of luck! Tech Bytes is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com). The columnist for this edition Lauren Segedin, Ph.D., is the co-founder of Stanedin, a social enterprise. Stanedin specializes in grant coaching, growth planning, and tech solutions for small business and charitable organizations. Learn more on the website: Stanedin.com.
From growing green economies to assisting newcomers, providing emergency shelter or free dental clinics, grant funding is available to help support almost every type of business or charitable organization. The question is, are you using it to your advantage? What Is A Grant? A grant is non-repayable money. Unlike a loan, which does need to be paid back, a grant does not. This can be an ideal solution for businesses or organizations in need of additional financing. While there is a process to obtaining a grant, these tips will help you get started.
Tip #5: Write To Your Audience Be sure to tweak the answers you prepared in advance, so it meets the grant’s requirements.
By Lauren Segedin
Tip #2: Prepare In Advance Grant timelines are short. Preparing in advance helps. Luckily, many grant applications ask for the same types of documents and ask similar questions. Spend one to two hours each week preparing these items in advance of any grant application.
search engines to help you find them. Public libraries may provide free access to these sites.
Tip #1: Identify Your Need Before you start looking for a grant, consider why you need support. Think about the challenges you’re experiencing. This will help you decide on what type of support you need and which grant to apply for.
Tip #3: Finding Grants In Canada, there are over 10,000 foundations, 680 corporate foundations, and 550 federal and provincial programs that give out grants. You can sift through websites, follow organizations on social media to know when grants are available, watch local media sources, or use paid
tech bytes Five Tips When Writing A Grant
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022Q30uoting
American author Dean Koontz:
Some of my favourite memories of them are their visits to my mother and other residents of the former Villa Maria Home for the Aged on Riverside Drive West. Greyhounds are gentle canines, and their height makes them ideal for residents in wheelchairs and beds to pet and cuddle withWiththem.these memories on my mind, I thought a perfect topic for my column would be to find a local group that is currently providing comfort and support to the elderly and unwell in our community.
Meet Debbie Loewen who has run Four Wheels Four Paws since December 2013. Her business offers a wide selection of canine-centred services including boarding, basic and advanced obedience training, in-home pet visitation, daily dog walks, feeding, administering medication, and canine playful activities.
A Paws Worth Considering By Joe McParland
The Therapy Dogs of Southwestern Ontario is a volunteer division of Four Wheels Four Paws. Of course, there are many more volunteers with their dogs, but here are just a few who attended a recent session at Amica Riverside, a premium retirement residence in Windsor. From left: Eva Smith with Doberman, Cuddles; Aggie Soulliere and her Yorkiepoo, Olivia, held by an Amica resident; Amica staff member; Paige MacAdam (standing in for Sara Tapak), Junior Handler with Border Collie/Australian Shepherd, Henry; Amica resident; Michelle Piquet with Whoodle, Cooper; Mary Beth Tilson with Australian Shepherd Lab mix, Bolt; Pam Brajak Mady with Cockapoo, Milo; Paula Baker; Lori Bojtos with Lab Hound mix, Buddy; Yvonne Seski with Golden Retriever, Penny; another resident with Amica staff member; and in the centre foreground, Debbie Loewen (posing with Chuck Loeper’s Chocolate Lab, Navy). Photo by Rod Denis.
“Petting, scratching, and cuddling a dog could be as soothing to the mind and heart as deep meditation, and almost as good for the soul as Octoberprayer.”10,1999 is the date my love affair with dogs began. That is the date Dagny a three year old, retired racing Greyhound from Wisconsin became part of my family. In the 23 years since, I have been blessed to have had a total of five Greyhounds become my family members. Four of them have since crossed The Rainbow Bridge, leaving me with Tessie, a beautiful southern grey from Alabama. I love all dogs, regardless of breed or pedigree, but I absolutely love the Greyhound for its nobility, gentleness, unconditional love, and instinctive therapeutic value. Each of the five dogs has supplied me the greatest “therapy” in tough times of loss or disappointment.
“At Amica Riverside our residents always look forward to pet therapy, which is offered within the residence once a month by local volunteers,” expresses Rachel Crow, Life Enrichment Coordinator at Amica Riverside. “To see the joy and smiles on their faces when they engage with the dogs is priceless. Pet therapy has many positive benefits for seniors such as reducing stress, depression, anxiety, and loneliness, while increasing mental stimulation and so much more.”
On the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m., she and her volunteers gather at Amica Riverside, 4909 Riverside Drive East in Windsor. (Learn more on the company website: Amica.ca/riverside)
And through this business she also operates Therapy Dogs of Southwestern Ontario — just one of many similar volunteer organizations in Windsor Essex.
She attempts to always keep six volunteers at a time, since they come and go for a variety of reasons (for example, death of the dog, other responsibilities such as work).
Henry, a Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mix therapy dog she has trained, was recently featured on the June 2022 cover of Biz X magazine to represent the Woofa~Roo Pet Fest.
After an 18 month absence because of the pandemic, Loewen has recently resumed a regular event she has had for years.
Each dog owner is provided a baseball cap or shirt identifying them with Therapy Dogs of Southwestern Ontario. Dogs are outfitted with a vest showing them as a therapy dog.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 31
According to Wikipedia, “A therapy dog is a dog that is trained to provide affection, comfort and support to people, often in settings such as hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, libraries, hospices, or disaster areas.”
For more information visit Loewen’s website: FourWheelsFourPaws.com or visit their group’s social media (noteFacebook.com/groups/FourWheelFourPawspage:no“s”onwheels).
Every day we are blessed with choices. We can choose to change our thoughts. We can choose to do what makes us Wesmile.can choose to make our day Andbeautiful.wecan choose to be happy. Remember, we have the power in our Don’thands. let the negativity of others take away the freedom to choose.
Danny Gautama is an inspirational writer who writes for mental health organizations, hospitals, and is a blogger on: BizXmagazine.com. He helps many on social media and is a two time recipient of the LoveMakers Foundation Awards. Connect with him by dannygautamawellness@gmail.com.emailing:
Loewen trains prospective volunteers and their dogs to become handlers and therapy dogs. She offers a first consultation to decide whether the dog is the right fit. Puppies (10 weeks or older) and adult dogs (two years or older) must then undergo training for temperament testing and PAT (Public Access“SuccessfulTraining).volunteers must be willing to commit to attending one event per month,” Loewen outlines. “Public events like the LaSalle Strawberry Festival, info sessions at Devonshire Mall, etc. are intended to gain exposure to the volunteer work we do.”
QuotesMotivational
Celebrating their 25th year in business, First Steps Child Care Centre, 169 Irwin Avenue, Essex is a privately owned and operated facility providing quality child care for children aged two months to 12 years. Owner Sue Sherk (in middle row) and her team are dedicated to providing a fun, safe and secure place for your little ones. And as you can see by this photo, the kids always have a good time! Photo by Rod Denis.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022
T32his issue we honour local women giving back to the community, such as 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex featured in our cover story. And now, for THE PARENTING BIZ we turn our attention to women-led businesses catering to families and children.
“This was a more challenging time, since I had been recently widowed with four children between the ages of nine and 19, while operating two child care centres,” Sherk shares. “Looking back now I think of the transitions and the accomplishments of both myself and my staff. I would not have made it through this time without them.”
According to Lee McGrath, Program Director for the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) at the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC), in Windsor Essex, their clients currently include 468 pre-start-up companies with the associated contact as female (54%) and 651 companies owned by women. Along with the SBEC, the current WES funding is led by a partnership between BuildA-Dream, WEtech Alliance, the University of Windsor’s EPICentre, Workforce WindsorEssex, and Windsor Essex Capital Angel Network — its four streams are focused on youth, start-up, scale-up, and growth. (For further details on WES please refer to: WEbusinesscentre.com under “How Can We Help.”)Now at the end of the third year of funding for our region, WES has provided training, mentorship and support for 4,094 women to start, expand or strengthen their entrepreneurial skills. Stats Canada reports businesses majorityowned by women accounted for 17.5% of all private-sector businesses in Canada, in the second quarter of 2022. They are more prevalent in service industries, such as health care and social assistance; professional, scientific and technical services; and retailThistrade.low percentage proves we need more female entrepreneurs to build and strengthen ourWecommunity!introduce you now to local working women in many different industries who face many of the same challenges, but have been able to find the keys to success.
“This site was opened January 2000 and licensed for 77 quality child care spaces (174 in total across both locations) for two montholds to 12 year-olds,” notes Sue Sherk, Owner of First Steps Child Care Centre. “At this time, I remained supervisor of the Essex location, which kept me closer to my children in school and my former partner, Karrie Garant took on the supervisor role at the Tecumseh location.”
By 2014, Sherk became the sole owner of First Steps Child Care Centre and the director of both locations with Keri Rush taking over the supervisor role at the Tecumseh location.
First Steps Child Care Centre
THE PARENTING BIZ Feature Story By Jim Murphy
Opened in 1997 at 169 Irwin Avenue in Essex, First Steps Child Care Centre is a one-stop shop for parents/guardians in need of daily child care — Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Their licence accommodates 97 quality child care spaces for children aged two months to 12 years. A second location opened later at 13291 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh.
Working Women On A Mission
Area female entrepreneurs spread their wings and fly to success
“Balance was my biggest challenge while having a family and operating a child care centre, which has always been my dream,” she says. “I always thought that to have an amazing family life or an amazing career you had to be all in with one or the other; I was determined to have both.”
Artemis Assessment & Treatment Centre Artemis Assessment & Treatment Centre has offered psychoeducational (Specific Learning Disability) and attentional assessments (Attention Deficit /Hyperactivity Disorder aka ADHD) for all ages, along with assessments for gifted children and adolescents; ADHD and executive functioning coaching for children, adolescents, adults, professionals and parents; plus therapy and psychotherapy, since 1993.
“Looking back, the last 25 years have brought me tremendous success,” says Sherk.
“We now have a Board of Directors that we are accountable to,” Sherk indicates. “They are also a great support group when we need ideas or resolutions.”
For Sherk as a mom and business owner of two child care centres, the struggle was real.
THE PARENTING BIZ
She continues: “When opening the site in 2000, having a newborn onboard and being self-employed simply meant this was going to be my most flexible baby. My staff could help look after my babies during the day while I was busy running the business — and of course I could check in any time I like.”
“Seeing children that have attended First Steps Child Care Centre mature into adults who bring in their own children is the most amazing feeling.”
Tara Carman-French, Certified ADHD & LD Coach and Director at Artemis Assessment & Treatment Centre in Windsor, administers the Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A.) which is a continuous performance test with objective measurements of attention, distractibility (filtering), and inhibitory control (impulsivity). It records the speed, accuracy, and consistency of responses. In conjunction with other testing materials, it is used to rule in or out a diagnosis of Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Photo by Rod Denis.
For more information on both locations visit: FirstStepsChildCareEssex.com.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 33
Over the next few years — after weighing the pros and cons — First Steps Child Care Centre made the transition to not-for-profit.
Tara Carman-French, Owner of Artemis Assessment & Treatment Centre, has been onboard for the past 10 years. She purchased the company — which has an original Burlington location — five years ago, and opened a Windsor location at 552 Pitt Street West, Suite 107, just before the pandemic began in 2019. “I personally specialize in ADHD assessment and coaching,” she states. “I have been writing large portions of our psychoeducational and attentional reports for over 10 years and assisted in creating the recommendations we offer for both ADHD and learning disabilities — plus, I am currently in training to become a Registered Carman-French’sPsychotherapist.”teamofsix are 100% about helping people, and specialize in all forms of attentional disabilities, autism, Asperger syndrome (currently folded into autism spectrum disorder), specific
Their staff of 37 employees (22 in Essex and 15 in Tecumseh) includes 16 Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECE), 19 RECE Assistants and two full time cooks.
Despite the nay-sayers and belittlers, Carman-French feels she is part of an extraordinarily supportive and celebratory community of female professionals.
As she neared the end of her maternity leave with her second child, she found out the Crock A Doodle studio in Windsor was for sale and she took the plunge to become a business owner.
She also shares with our readers about her all-too-common negative experiences of being a woman in professional“Individualssettings.Iam negotiating with will often speak over me, ignore, or belittle my questions and generally treat me with a less than professional attitude,” she comments. “When asking about how my business is going, I have literally been asked ‘How is your little business going?’ in a derogatory way.”
“I have had the opportunity to work alongside and network with some amazing women dedicated to helping and raising up other women,” she says. “I have seen overwhelming support from other female business owners, therapists, coaches and other female professionals.”
“Our tight-knit team of three specialize in fun art, not fine art — whatever your piece looks like it is our ultimate goal to ensure you enjoy your time in the studio,” says Laura Moran, Franchise Owner of Crock A Doodle since November 2021. “In addition to in-studio painting at 4371 Walker Road (inside the Real Canadian Superstore), we also offer an online store of pottery pieces and projects to paint at home. Not only that, but we host birthday parties, adult paint nights, kids programs, school programs, team building and corporate events.”
“When I was really young I started a family newspaper,” she recounts. “It only had three subscribers and the articles were written by a child, but the sense of ownership and pride I felt when creating and delivering them was a feeling that I began to crave.”
learning disabilities, OCD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder and many other psychiatric concerns. (For further details, visit their websites: ArtemisAssessment.ca or:Carman-FrenchArtemisCoach.ca).tells Biz X that she never had a goal to become an entrepreneur.
Windsor is a paint your own pottery studio where painters of any age or ability can get creative and transform ready-to-paint pottery pieces into personalized works of art. They professionally glaze and kiln-fire the pieces to a brilliant, durable finish to become functional dishware, one-of-a-kind gifts, adorable art, and precious keepsakes.
Ever since she was small, Moran has embodied the entrepreneurial spirit.
Opened in 2017, Crock A Doodle
Laura Moran, Owner of Crock A Doodle Windsor, poses in front of ready to paint pottery on the shelves in her studio. Photo courtesy of Jaimie O’Krafka.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202234
THE PARENTING BIZ
“I was excited to learn more about the opportunity, and the more I learned the more committed I became to making it work and becoming part of the Crock A Doodle brand,” Moran informs Biz X. “Crock A Doodle operates as a franchise company and I quickly learned that the commitment from
Three year-old Miles Moran has the giggles while his foot is painted, as part of an Easter pottery project at Crock A Doodle Windsor. Photo courtesy of Jaimie O’Krafka.
“However, I am thankful for the ability to direct Artemis along the assessment and treatment pathways that best service our clients and help them to create positive change in their lives,” she says. “After having primarily done assessments for Artemis for five years, I was excited by the opportunity to grow the treatment side of the business, as I have always been driven by a strong desire to help people to achieve their goals. Being able to help my clients identify their strengths and their weaknesses, work with them and/or their parents and develop an ongoing treatment plan is extraordinarily rewarding.”
Crock A Doodle Windsor
Like many women in business for themselves, Moran struggles with the work-life balance.
After becoming a mother, Layfield was driven to expand her business to include early childhood music programs from ages three months and up, including a preschool music“Whenprogram.Ibecame a mom in 2019, I realized the challenge faced by many female business owners is that even from the delivery room, you are still connected to work and want to ensure that it runs smoothly in your absence,” she shares.
“Luckily, I have surrounded myself with a great support system and employees who have been able to help fill the gaps when I’ve been away. Although this can be challenging, I’ve used this to create a new business division called Sonata Music Adventures, for children three months and up.” On top of balancing work life and motherhood, Layfield also experiences many of the same challenges other female entrepreneurs face in the professional world.
“The biggest challenge is the daily balancing act between raising children, being present in my marriage and triaging when to work in the business versus on the business,” she states. “I do feel like I have a bit of an advantage in that I have a group of other female studio owners to reach out to IF something comes up. With their collective experience and excitement to see each of us succeed, they are an invaluable tool in my toolbox as a new small business owner.”
Log on to: CrockaDoodle.com/Windsor to view their studio events, to make a reservation, and see a description of everything they offer.
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THE PARENTING BIZ
“The experience of learning an instrument had an extremely positive impact on my life in a multitude of ways,” says Alyssa Layfield, Owner of Sonata Piano Studio.
“It was the catalyst for my desire to spread music education to a younger generation and use my passion to inspire others.”
Sonata Piano Studio Located at 13311 Tecumseh Road East in Tecumseh, Sonata Piano Studio has offered private music lessons in piano, violin, guitar, voice, and ukulele, as well as baby and toddler music classes, since 2012.
“A challenge I continually face as a female business owner, is respect for my authority,” Layfield points out. “I am too frequently faced with not being taken seriously
Alyssa Layfield, Owner of Sonata Piano Studio, offers lessons in piano, violin, guitar, voice, and ukulele. Photo courtesy of Sean Layfield.
our head office team meant I could go into business for myself, but not by myself.”
Love The Bump And Badass Birth Academy
it comes to our studio rates, politics and general business rules as compared to my male counterparts. My takeaway has been to continuously work on my self-belief and surround myself with positive peers who help to work on these issues together.”
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Sonata Piano Studio has won multiple awards and has waiting lists for certain programs and lessons. while being able to retain an excellent roster of 17 instructors and three administrators. To learn more about their programs and to read bios on their instructors visit: SonataPianoStudio.com.
According to Geberdt, going into business for herself was a logical decision. It freed up time for her to be with her family; plus she noticed that support and services for new and growing families in Windsor Essex were seriously lacking. “Raising young kids is hard, and working a traditional 9 to 5 job, in my opinion, made life even more challenging,” she tells Biz X. “It added child care costs and juggling a busy schedule to the already gruelling job of being a parent. I started the business part-time from home as a way to stay flexible and be with my kids as much as possible while they were young.”
Despite the lack of respect compared to her male peers, Layfield can always count on the support of fellow female business owners in the community.
Pink Posies Bowtique
“We support new and growing families in Windsor Essex through education and birth support,” says Justine Geberdt, Owner of Love the Bump. “We get real about what’s coming, while arming families with the confidence and tools to know that they totally got this.”
“In the beginning this was just a hobby my mom and I enjoyed and we started out super small by setting up a table at local craft shows,” says Kristen Casalena, Co-Owner of Pink Posies Bowtique along with her mom Brenda Robillard. “In doing more events, we found it was a great way for us as mom and daughter to stay connected to one another; plus we received plenty of praise from our local community, which made us think that we may just have something we can run with here. Now, nearly 10 years later, we are still here and enjoying every minute of it.”
For more information check: LoveTheBump.ca and for details on the digital course about childbirth see her other website: BadassBirthAcademy.com.
THE PARENTING BIZ Justine Geberdt, Owner of Love the Bump and Badass Birth Academy, is a Birth Doula and Childbirth Educator. She has attended hundreds of births, taught hundreds of classes and she knows where they keep the popsicles, LOL! Photo courtesy of Anthony Sheardown.
Since 2010, Love the Bump has provided birth doula services and childbirth education classes.
“As a female business owner, I’ve witnessed the support of other female entrepreneurs in the community,” she says. “In my field and others, these moments of support have been so incredible and heartwarming to experience and I am excited to continue to boost each other’s work and worth.”
Whereas the group childbirth education classes have finished, Geberdt is still teaching the exact same fun curriculum in person for private classes or through her Badass Birth Academy
Filling the gaps in the support and service industry for new and growing families has allowed Love the Bump to grow year-to-year.“Inever imagined that my small side-hustle would become a booming business and I’m so grateful for that!” Geberdt expresses. “Recently, I accepted a full-time position at a non-profit organization, so there are some changes to the business model now and I will only be accepting two birth doula clients per month as opposed to four.”
Operating for the past nine years, Pink Posies Bowtique (formerly Gramma’s Creations) creates dozens of different style bows for babies and children to wear as headbands or clips. This two-woman show also specializes in custom embroidery, along with three-piece birthday ensembles for both boys and girls. The three-piece girl ensembles come with an embroidered birthday shirt (with a design of your choice), a custom designed handmade tutu, and a headband or clip. Their most popular three-piece boy birthday ensembles are a diaper cover, suspenders and bow tie combination.
“She started making cute little headbands for my daughter and people would continuously ask where I got them from,” she explains. “When I asked her to make a handful that we could try selling at local craft shows, we quickly realized baby girl accessories were popular and that many people in the community enjoyed purchasing them from local creators. We noticed that there was a lack of cute, trendy headbands and clips available and we seized that opportunity and today we have thousands of handmade creations!”
THE PARENTING BIZ
Like many women in business for themselves, Casalena struggles to find a work life balance.
The holidays are right around the corner! Pink Posies Bowtique’s Christmas deluxe hair bows make perfect gifts. All are handmade with locally sourced glitter and vegan leather material. Photo courtesy of Pink Posies.Kristen Casalena and Brenda Robillard, the mother and daughter co-owners of Pink Posies Bowtique, take a selfie in front of their booth at the June 2022 Mama & Family Expo.
“We have been fortunate enough over the years to have gained so much support from our local community,” Casalena tells Biz X. “We are as successful as we are, solely because we are lucky enough to live in a community where supporting and buying local is so greatly encouraged. We have had some high praise from prominent local women in business, which has consistently encouraged us to grow while also supporting other women starting their entrepreneurial journey.”
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022 37
Casalena credits her mom with the idea to start a business when she had her daughter in 2013.
“As an entrepreneur I have to be the social media manager, accountant, marketing developer, designer/creator and public speaker, in addition to being a mom and being efficient at my other jobs,” Casalena says. “I have had to learn to manage my time exceptionally well and to prioritize family over work.” And it seems like she is managing personal and work life extremely well!
Support Local Always Whether you need pre-natal care, daycare, music lessons, a stylish handmade tutu, a little together time painting pottery with your kids, or even a psychoeducational assessment for your child, be sure to support the incredible female entrepreneurs profiled here and all others you come across in our region!
To see more photos of their merchandise, you can visit their social media page on: Facebook.com/pinkposiesbowtique.
French children’s author and teacher for the Greater Essex County District School Board — Céleste Kurcz — has written her first book, Les aventures de Coralie la coccinelle-le voyage dans l’espace.
“Les aventures de Coralie gives fun facts about space exploration and works on a variety of different math concepts such as counting, ordering objects by size, and simple fractions, all while taking our youngest readers on an adventure with Coralie,” she describes.
Little ones, get ready to blastoff to outer
“The illustrations, font, and placement were all deliberate to ensure the very best for myHerreaders.”French heritage played a major role in the production of her book.
Les aventures de Coralie la coccinelle is available at Gertrude’s Writing Room, 1899 Niagara Street, Windsor and the River Book Shop, 67 Richmond Street, Amherstburg. It is also available online through the author’s website: CoralieTheLadybug.com as well as Friesenpress or Amazon
An Out Of This World Adventure Book FROM BOOKSHELFTHE
PROFILEEVENT After a two year hiatus, Children’s Fest is thrilled to return to the local event scene and ready to entertain the children and families of Windsor and Essex County. Since its inception in 1995 as a project of the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) — and now in partnership with the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA) — more than 90,000 visitors from all over the region have attended this annual event. With countless activities including mini putt, pony rides from Sarah Parks Horsemanship, face painting, a Border City Barkers Dog Show, games, and more, the 2022 Children’s Fest has everything you could want for the young and young at heart.
UWindsor’s Physics Club, Copeland’s Martial Arts, music from Travis Robinson and the group, Some Guys Who Like To Sing Along, with dance performances from Salin Lahi (Filipino folk dancers), Industry Dance and Académie Ste.-Cécile A fall favourite, the festival always takes place on the third weekend of September. For 2022 it takes place September 17 and 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., once again in its new home inside the soccer complex at Central Park Athletics, 3400 Grand Marais Road East at Central Avenue.
Entry fees are still only $5 per person (there is no charge for children under two).
“I am a proud Franco Ontarian; it is part of my identity,” mentions Kurcz. “It just felt right to write my first book in French.”
elementary
“After 28 years, this has become a multigenerational event,” according to Janet Kelly, Event Co-Chair from the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918). “People who came as children now bring their own kids and help us foster this ongoing legacy in our community. We’ve take great pride in keeping this a family friendly and affordable event.” Event proceeds go to support community health and education projects for both the Rotary Club and BANA. The 2022 event is shaping up to be the biggest and best to date and we’re hoping you and your family will be part of its success!
Woot, Woot!
Find the latest information on their website: ChildrensFest.Wordpress.com or on: Facebook.com/ChildrensFestWindsor.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 202238 THE PARENTING BIZ
space!Alocal
The ideas came to me while rocking my daughter Coralie to sleep in the early mornings.”
“Being a French immersion teacher, I noticed there weren’t a lot of books out there that used easy vocabulary for young children to understand,” says Kurcz. “I also wanted to create a book that would be educational, yet engaging.”Kurczhas taught Kindergarten and primary elementary students for over a decade and knows the importance of keeping young readers’ attention.
“I have always wanted to publish a children’s book,” Kurcz explains about her book on Coralie, the ladybug who travels to space. it wasn’t until I became a mother for the first time that I found my inspiration.
There were a couple of reasons why she decided to take the plunge into writing.
“However,
Author Céleste Kurcz lives in Windsor with her husband and daughter Coralie. In her spare time, she sits on the board of directors for Connections Early Years Family Centre and the Arts Council Windsor & Region. Photo courtesy of Kerri Kavanaugh of Kerri K. Photography.
Patrick Kelly, Event Co-Chair/Public Relations and Communication Lead at BANA says: “We’ve been looking forward to the return of this event and can’t say enough about the ongoing support of all our sponsors, advertisers, and vendors who stood by us during COVID and are just as excited to be back as we are. In recent years, we’ve averaged over 5,000 attendees annually and we have a full line up of community exhibitors, vendors and entertainers again thisSomeyear.”of the acts this year include:
Photo/GekaSkrStock©Can Children’s Fest Is Back
Those attending Saturday can receive a wrist band for free re-entry on Sunday.
On her Instagram page (@coralie. la.coccinelle) she posts weekly math prompts that offer wonderful ideas for both teachers and parents alike, for use at home or school. Kurcz hopes there is enough interest from the readers to create a mini series of different adventures that explore different aspects of mathematics.
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Learn more about this subject on the Windsor-Essex Community Opioid & Substance Strategy website: WECOSS.ca. Again, take the time to talk to teens; they need your guidance even though they may not act like it. Each time you cover a difficult topic with your teen, it makes future chats easier and it will strengthen your relationship.
WECHU Photo/daisydaisyStockCan©
Having these talks may feel awkward, but it is important. Consider including these points . . .
Do you have a teen in your life who is starting to go to parties with friends?
• Plan ways to get home safely. Stress to your teens to never get in a car with a driver who has been drinking alcohol or using drugs.
Did you know: The Good Samaritan Overdose Act provides legal protection for those seeking help for someone else or themselves?
Supplied The
Help your teen make a plan for the party.
• Have a Party Partner. Friends that will: take care of one another the whole night, step in if something is happening that does not seem right, and ensure you both get home safely.
Make a promise to your teen to be available for a call any time for help, advice, or a pickup, with a promise to not shame or embarrass them. Stress that you want to help them make safe decisions.
A good way to wrap up the chat is to show your support with a Parents’ Party Pledge.
What You Should Know If You Are An Adult Hosting A Party • It’s not the role of the police to monitor parties on your behalf.
Make sure that you ask questions, respect different opinions, and look at them while they talk to you, so they know you are listening andCheckcare. out Windsor-Essex County Health Unit’s Safe Partying Toolkit on: educators/healthy-schools-party-safer-toolkitWECHU.org/ The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is located at 1005 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor and online at: WECHU.org.
• Build an understanding around consent knowing and respecting their boundaries, as well as the boundaries of others.
Before your teen heads out to a party, take the time to talk to them about staying safe, and make sure they know you will be there for them if they need you.
• Set a curfew.
Ask these important questions — Where will you be? Who are you going with? Will there be alcohol or drugs? How are you getting there and back home?
• Keep your cell phones turned on and charged so you can reach each other.
• Remind your teen to keep an eye on their drink to ensure nothing is slipped into it.
• It is illegal in Ontario for an adult/parent to provide alcohol/drugs to those who are underage. If you allow them to drink alcohol or use drugs on your property and someone is injured, serious charges can be laid against the host.
• Save a life, and have naloxone there.
THE PARENTING BIZ MATTERSHEALTH
Party Safe, Talk To Teens
By
60th
By Dave Hall 1 2 3
Area residents of Croatian descent celebrated the 60th anniversary of the CNSC (Croatian National Sports Club) Windsor Croatia with a day of music, food, speeches and soccer, on June 26, 2022.
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The festivities included a picnic at noon followed by live entertainment and four Ontario Cup soccer games, featuring the club’s men’s team, as well as teams in under-13, under-14 and under-15 boys’ divisions.
Marking it with soccer games was fitting because of the club’s successful history of Ontario Cup competitions. “Over the years, we have won four Ontario Cup titles in the senior men’s division and another in one of the junior divisions,” notes Tuskan. “We also have a second place award in the Canadian championships.”
3. From left: Ivan Grbesic, Marko Barbic, Ivica Gracan, Ante Jovic and Drago Tuskan pose with club sponsor Dr. Laura Voltic. Photo courtesy of Maja Testani.
Photo courtesy of Renata Kolic-Jakovcic Windsor Croatia Anniversary
IN COMMUNITYTHE
Established in June 1962 to serve the Croatian-Canadian community of Windsor through the passion of love and soccer, the club has grown to include 17 competitive boys, girls and men’s soccer teams, as well as an inter-club bocce league. It’s also a gathering place for family and friends. The club currently has about 240 paying members and another 2,300 or so from the Windsor area whose family descendants call Croatia home. “We’re a proud nation and to celebrate our history in a free country such as Canada is very special,” Tuskan states. The sport club is located on 14 acres at 4895 Concession Road 8 and includes five soccer fields, a pavilion, picnic area, a children’s playground, a barbecue area, clubhouse and kitchen. For more information on the club and its activities, visit: WindsorCroatia.com.
1. Delegates in attendance at the June anniversary and picnic, from left: Fabio Costante, Ontario Soccer Board Regional Director — West; Ivica Gracan, The Croatian Soccer Federation of Canada & USA, Supervisory Board; Andrew Dowie, MPP Windsor-Tecumseh; Ante Jovic, Consulate General of the Republic of Croatia in Mississauga; Ivan Grbesic, Canadian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce; CNSC Windsor Croatia Vice President Marko Barbic; and President Drago Tuskan. Photo courtesy of Maja Testani.
2. The CNSC Windsor Croatia Senior Men’s Premier Team and Board after their win in the second round of the Ontario Cup. The team advanced to the quarter finals in late August, but sadly lost 3-1 to the Gloucester Celtics. Photo courtesy of Daryl Muscat.
“It was a day of family entertainment celebrating the history of the club and the anniversary of Croatia’s independence from Yugoslavia, which happened in 1991,” says club President Drago Tuskan.
I42t’s been a long week and finally Friday night has arrived. You have no plans for the weekend, other than just kicking back at home and getting some much-needed R&R. The shoes go off at the door. The coat is tossed on a chair two strides later and by the time you make your way into the kitchen, you are down to just your underwear and socks. The glass starts to sweat as you pour the chilled white wine, and you audibly sigh in the perfection of the moment. How could anything be more relaxing you wonder as you start flipping through the mail? And then you discover the evening just keeps getting better . . . a new issue of Biz X magazine has arrived! Flipping the bright colourful pages, you immediately turn to your favourite column — Ask The Experts, of course — featuring Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store for thisSuddenly,issue! you realize your evening peace could actually be taken to another level. You jump to the question-and-answer portion of the article to hopefully gain some insight as to what options are available and quickly learn their new store is now open at 5163 Walker Road in Windsor (online at: WindsorHotTubStore.com).WindsorHotTub&Sauna
What makes of hot tubs and saunas do you sell? “Brands include Aqua Master, Dimension One Spas and InnovaSpa along with used and refurbished units,” states Hotchkiss. “We will be selling infrared saunas in the future, but are currently researching manufacturers to pursue and lines to carry.” What is required for the installation of a sauna or hot tub? “The electrical requirements differ depending on the type and size of tub or sauna,” he responds. “We will provide guidance at every step of the process, as improperly installed units can create hazards.”
How does Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store try to set itself apart from others selling similar products? “We are all about customer service and after-sale care,” notes Hotchkiss, emphasizing, “We are a hot tub store exclusively, not a pool store that sells hot tubs.”
“Professionalism and prompt attention should be provided at all times.”
Photo by Rod Denis.
“We offer both new and used hot tubs, as well as full service, maintenance, accessories, chemicals, and even rentals,” he indicates.
Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store officially opened its new Walker Road location on July 29, 2022. Owner Brad Hotchkiss has everything a hot tub owner needs, from accessories and supplies to servicing and even removing and relocating tubs. Plus, he has access to plenty of new and used hot tubs so everyone can have an incredible spa experience in their own home too!
What services and products do you offer?
We see that you offer hot tub moving services. Is it wise to have your tub moved by a professional? “Moving a hot tub is very difficult and needs to be completed by professionals to avoid damage,” advises Hotchkiss. “Hiring a professional for the move helps ensure safety for both the equipment and individuals involved.” What would you say are the functional benefits to installing a hot tub or sauna at one’s residence? “I think the benefits
By Dave Halliday
ask the experts BROUGHT TO YOU BY When It’s Time To Get Into Hot Water . . . Think Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store
When considering a new hot tub or sauna, what type of assistance should one expect from their chosen provider/ installer? “From our perspective you should fully expect excellent customer service both before and after the sale,” Hotchkiss replies.
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022
“Basically, everything hot tub related.”
Store Owner Brad Hotchkiss, operated the business for two years at Devonshire Mall, but only recently celebrated the opening of the brandnew Walker Road location at the end of July. The mall store closed as “they outgrew the location and had to go big”! With eight years of personal experience to draw upon, Hotchkiss shares his expertise with our readers here.
However, the battle for control of the water jets and blowers has not always been as peaceful as you would like. Your wife seems to always be adjusting the settings! She prefers the lounger (a reclined seat) with full body massage, while you lean towards the back massage in the corner seat. Every time you get it exactly right, she manages to change it all around again.
are many and almost endless to list,” he believes. “Benefits in the form of health and wellness, enhanced family time, there is certainly a romantic aspect, and obviously the ability to de-stress at the end of a long day is invaluable.” Are there any recent advances in hot tubs and saunas that may be of interest to our readers? “There are certainly recent developments with the insulating components that are exciting, and Bluetooth technology has emerged as well,” Hotchkiss mentions. “Simply put, a hot tub or sauna is going to add to both the value and your enjoyment of your home and outdoor living space.”
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Well, your home oasis has been enhanced since the installation of the new tub and you look forward to arriving home even more, in recent days. Twenty minutes into another relaxing evening soak you feel the stress of the day just filtering away. The care of the tub has been minimal and you know your local professional is always just a phone call or short drive away.
Hmmm . . . so it seems there is a question we missed asking — how would his and hers hot tubs work? Happy soaking!
In closing would you like to add anything else? “It’s worth mentioning that the key to my business is the availability to be there for my customers,” expresses the owner. “We have in store hours from 9 to 3, but I can meet anytime at the store to show hot tubs or to sell supplies. My phone is always on. I need to be in the backyards of my customers’ homes everyday as well, and that is why the store closes mid-afternoon. Every other reasonable hour I’m in the field.”
Economic Data Versus The Stock Market
5. Recessions are anticipated by the stock market and many times the reaction is overdone relative to the actual economic reality. This year’s volatility has already been excessive. We have digested a significant amount of negative news in 2022, yet many companies continue to raise their dividends, reduce debt, and buyback shares. This is where your “buy” list begins. Many people forget the good news too easily and are hesitant to buy when they are uncomfortable. Recoveries from bottoms are quick. Stock markets do not ring a bell when it’s time to buy. It’s fall and it’s hunting season. In closing consider this quote from Warren Buffett: “We don’t have to be smarter than the rest, we have to be more disciplined than the rest.”
2022 has been a stock picker’s market, and will likely remain so. As soon as the stock market gets a “whiff” that interest rates aren’t going higher, more money will be directed to high quality stocks. Along with these inflationary and economic concerns, the U.S. mid-term elections are coming. As an investor you may have multiple buying opportunities through the fall into mid-November.Ifweare in/entering a recession, this is what that means to me as an Investment Advisor . . .
By Steven Mayo
BIZ X MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2022
Steven Mayo is a Senior 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.
2. A recession is a period of time when you buy to be rewarded two years later.
4. A recession shakes out the weak investors and rewards the strong.
44As we enter the fall period, the Canadian and U.S. economies are likely seeing improved inflation data (less bad), and slowing economic data (less Ironicallygood).these are the two yardsticks the Central Banks are looking for to slow their tightening trajectory. They only want to raise rates as much as needed . . . and no more. As I write this article in mid-summer there are early indicators that a mild recession is possible. From a stock market perspective these factors have already been priced in, to a high degree, and many sectors and the stocks that comprise them, have come down over the past sixKeepmonths.in mind that the stock market is a leading economic indicator, whereas the economic data that verifies a recession is a lagging indicator. If there is an actual recession there is real money to be made when it ends. This is important to know as an investor.
1. It is time to expand the “buy” list and/or increase quality within a portfolio.
3. Investor sentiment is usually quite low for too long when we are in a recessionary environment. Stock markets will look forward and likely rebound sooner than the public or the media.
“At 91 years of age, I still hold my pilot’s license,” says Holden. “My air cadet training provided me with opportunities to develop work ethics that prepared me for my military career and as a civilian, enjoying a very rewarding life having succeeded in accomplishing what I set out to do.”
“In 2010, a benefactor provided the Squadron with the means to establish a permanent building called The Hangar, at 2600 Airport Road in Windsor,” indicates the Squadron’s Commanding Officer, Major Craig Mackenzie-Haines
The establishment of frontier settlements along the south shores of the Detroit River raised a military presence across our border community. Swayed by a strong commitment to preserve our Canadian values of democracy, generations of military families gave up a piece of individuality to become a part of something larger than themselves. History shows that military training defines one’s sense of purpose. In building those core responsibilities, a template on how to carry out those responsibilities sets the standard.
As a result of my air cadet training, I enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 1950 at 19 years of age and received my wings January 1951. I retired in 1982 having served 32 years with the RCAF.” Following his retirement, Holden joined the Windsor Flying Club (WindsorFlyingClub.com) as its Chief Flying Instructor. Holden then shared his expertise with the Canadian Aviation Museum (see: CanadianAviationMuseum.ca) as its Chief Pilot.
In advance of HMCS Hunter’s relocation to 60 Mill Street on February 14, 2015, the question of the Squadron’s future was not only raised, it was answered.
At the Squadron’s Review Parade — held May 31, 2022 — many air cadets were recognized for their achievements.
“For demonstrating substantial development of transactional and transformational leadership abilities, those actions and engagements, which highlight the spirit of the cadet program, Warrant Officer 2nd Class Mohammed Al-Maghazachi was presented with the Lord Strathcona Medal notessquadrons/awards/lord-strathcona-medal),”(AirCadetLeague.com/for-cadets-Mackenzie-Haines.On September 17, 2022 the Squadron celebrates its 50th “Congratulationsanniversary.to364
Photo, circa 1975, depicts 364 Lancaster Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets End-of Training-Year Parade at HMCS Hunter, 960 Ouellette Avenue. The Reviewing Officer (right) is Captain Jean Resrosiers, escorted by Captain Ed Romiens. The officer to the far left is Captain Wes Delnea. Photo courtesy of 364 Lancaster Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets.
Ron Holden had a “thing” about flying. “I joined the #310 Air Cadets in 1945 at 14 years of age, while attending Assumption High School, and served until my graduation in 1949,” explains Holden. “In 1948, I received a flying scholarship from the Windsor Flying Club for a pilot’s licence.
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By Andrea Grimes
Lancaster Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets on your 50th anniversary from everyone at Windsor Flying Club,” expresses Martin Reeb, Club President. “Our club is honoured to be involved with the Power Pilot Scholarship program and hope that it benefitted the cadets.” As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Governor General’s Medal, for her volunteer service to Veterans and a number of non-profit organizations supporting Windsor’s military families’ network.
“In 1975, federal legislation governing air cadet programs provided girls of the same age with the same opportunities,” states Captain James Roberts, 364 Lancaster Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets (website:According364squadron.ca).tothe1956edition of Windsor’s City Directory, the Royal Canadian Air Force 2451 AC&W Squadron (Aerospace Control and Warning) operated from the former Peerless Dairies Ltd. plant at 437 Erie Street East. When this Squadron was “stood down” June 1, 1961 and the building was sold by the Government in 1965, the Squadron’s #13, #310, and #332 Air Cadets relocated to HMCS Hunter (Windsor’s naval reserve unit), 960 Ouellette Avenue. With the amalgamation of the three Air Cadets, 364 Lancaster Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets was established January 1, 1972 and granted its Charter January 1, Windsor’s1976.
In the 1940s, cadet training programs for boys aged 12 to 18 were established as a means to leverage their experience of Canadian military traditions, values and ethics.
The 50th Anniversary Of The 364 Lancaster Squadron
Victoria Rubio, Owner and CEO, VR Success Services Career & Business Advancement, recently opened a physical location for her agency, which allows her to offer additional professional services like access to a podcast studio and photography suite. Photo by Sanja Tabor.
Rubio focuses on growth and positivity stating: “I’ve been through a lot, but never wanted to take the role of victim. I’m in control of my destiny. I held onto what I wanted to go after, what I wanted to create, instead of holding onto what wasn’t working for me. It’s really exciting for me to talk about when I think about it and everything I’ve accomplished.” Rubio works with a team of experts to assist individuals, businesses and organizations.Forbusiness
“I was really good at it so I started doing that with my clients,” Rubio explains. “I saw that there was a need.”
VR Success Services — Career & Business Advancement
advancement, VR Success Services offers brand development, social media management, website design, marketing/growth strategies and coaching.
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For all clients, VR also offers media services like photography and video production for promotional needs.
. . .
Helping You Discover Your Full Potential
“I always loved helping people and I loved helping them discover their potential . . . things that they probably never thought possible for them,” she says. In 2018, Rubio went on maternity leave and spent more time working with her coaching clients.
Career advancement services include professional documents (resumes, bios), mock interviews, networking support, and confidence training.
In June of 2022, Rubio opened a physical location. It was a big step for this 44-yearold single mom moving from her dining room table into a fully realized space.
“We do anything our client needs to stand out as leaders in their industry,” notes Rubio. Whereas the pandemic did have an impact on business, Rubio saw a positive outcome in that it made her want to advance her plans and be more adaptable. She had to think about what people needed and what she could Knowingoffer.that many people were now unemployed, Rubio offered a discount to career advancement clients.
In 2019, she started a business offering career advancement and then realized that entrepreneurs were seeking help getting started as well. It was time to launch VR Success Services — Career & Business Advancement to help individuals “stand out as leaders” and reach their highest potential in life, career, and business.
It was then she realized they needed more than just guidance; clients also wanted career assistance like resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles.
It has already been an exciting year for VR Success Services.
“I feel like the pandemic assisted me,” she comments. “It helped me reach out to people and gave me time to grow.” Rubio believes it is her approach, attention, and connection with clients that makes VR Success Services unique.
“We really do care,” says Rubio. “We want to help clients reach their goals.” She adds: “And when they share their success stories, that’s everything to us.”
Along with the recent grand opening, adding studio space, planning for a training academy, and juggling business growth, Rubio — originally from El Salvador — is celebrating her selection as a semi-finalist (business to business services section) for the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards
Out of 2,700 entries only 120 were selected as semi-finalists (refer to the website: PowWowPitch.org/semi-finalists).
“It’s a wonderful honour and I am so grateful for this opportunity,” she says.
By Victoria Rose V ictoria Rubio loved her career as a social worker, but always had a dream of owning her own business. Outside of her full-time job, Rubio dabbled with different creative projects, but eventually decided the work she was doing was ideal inspiration for her new adventure: success coach.
Finalists are announced September 22 and winners on November 3, 2022. Until then, Rubio’s gratitude and positive attitude will keep her going regardless.
“I’m just getting started!” she expresses.
She works one-on-one with clients to outline their desired outcomes and detail a step-by-step plan to streamline and achieve them, reminding them that perseverance is key and “there’s always a way!”
VR Success Services is located in Windsor at 3690 Walker Road, Unit 1.
Learn more about all the services offered and find out how to get a free brand audit on the website: VRSuccessPath.com.
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