Biz X magazine July August 2019

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION From The Local Winemaking Industry, THE WRECK At Colchester Harbour And The Thrift On Mill In Leamington To The Libro Credit Union, Kingsville’s Urban Art Market And Getting To Know Reclaimed Wood Artist Craig Forget . . . It’s Easy To Realize Why We Love Essex County!

PLUS 2019 Biz X Award Nominations Open; Fun Things To Do In Windsor & The Parenting Biz Studies Up On Local Education Options For Your Children

JULY/AUG 2019

$3.50

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SUNsational Selfies!

Every picture tells a story and summer is the perfect time to make new memories. You’ll be able to do just that with so many places and events to get to in Essex County and you’ll feel like a tourist in your own backyard! For starters, stay cool with a sweet treat from Waterfront Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt when you stop in the historic town of Amherstburg. And then drive off to Kingsville and other nearby towns to discover even more in our road trip feature! — Page 18 B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

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

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B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

table of contents JULY/AUG 2019 volume 22 • issue 7

WWW.BIZXMAGAZINE.COM

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4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Biz X Awards — Ready, Set . . . Nominate!

8 Editorial Viewpoint: Region Winemakers Flexing Their Muscles Spurred on by ambitious young grape growers, the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce is urging the Ontario Government to break up the Liquor Control Board monopoly on domestic wine distribution and provide relief from punishing taxes, reports columnist Alan Halberstadt. Pictured on the shores of Pelee Island (top photo courtesy of Sue Rice/Pelee Island Winery) are the newest wines from Pelee Island Winery, the oldest winery in the region — the LOLA Merlot and LOLA Pinot Grigio.

10 Front Lines 13 Heard On The Street 14 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 30 Food For Thought: THE WRECK At Colchester Harbour 32 Tech Bytes: The New Age Of Tourism 33 Take The Lead: Inspirational Leader, Irene Moore Davis 34 Ask The Experts: Did You Know Artist Craig Forget Is From Our Neck Of The Woods?

35 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Attention Thrifty Shoppers 36 XX Files: Anissa Noakes, Owner Of Urban Art Market Kingsville & Windsor 37 Event Profile: The 11th Annual “Shar’s Ride For MS” 38 Guest Column: Are You Liable When Making Referrals?

41 Portfolio Corner 42 Milestones: Loyal Companions Dog Grooming Inc. Marks 30 Years In Business 44 THE PARENTING BIZ: Knowledge Is Power Summer is in full swing and even though fun times are the focus, a new school year is just around the corner. The time is now to check out what some of the local private schools and boards have to offer and how they can best facilitate your child’s elementary and secondary learning experience this fall.

54 Summer Activity Guide: How To Keep The Kids Entertained, Active And Educated 56 Build A Dream “3D Modelling Workshop” 58 Biz X Was There 60 Hot Shots: The “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” Benefitting The Kidney Foundation of Canada 62 Hot Shots: Family Respite Services “Walk On Erie Street” Where is everyone going (photo at left by Rod Denis) you ask? Over 400 participated in the sold out Family Respite Services (FRS) “Walk On Erie Street” culinary fundraiser last month. FRS works alongside 1,100 families who have a child with a developmental disability, mental health disorder, physical disability or medical health challenge. Find out which restaurants participated to help raise over $20,000 for FRS! 64 From The Bookshelf: A Crime Thriller & Helping Children Learn About Being Homeless 65 The Way It Was: The Windsor Museum Of Freemasons 66 Biz Of The Month: Banking In The County With Libro Credit Union

ON THE COVER — “SUNsational Selfies!”—18

Summer weekends are perfect for hitting the road to check out the local tourist attractions and festivals happening across Essex County and snapping some great selfie shots! And when you’ve developed an appetite after all the excitement, there are a wide variety of restaurants, wine bars, cafés and ice cream shops to visit for a cold beverage, tasty treat and/or excellent meal. So get ready to find out how to have a whole lot of fun in area towns this summer in our special “Celebrating Essex County” section!

COVER CREDITS: MODELS/LOCATION: Local actor Joel Robinson and model Megan Pickersgill take a selfie in King’s Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg while enjoying a few scoops of ice cream, courtesy of Waterfront Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt, 229 Dalhousie Street. CLOTHING: Provided by the Towne Shoppe, 56 Richmond Street, Amherstburg (TowneShoppe.ca). Megan is in a bright coloured DO + BE romper. Joel wears a Sea Glass Breezer linen shirt in the colour of Dubarry Coral by Tommy Bahama and shorts also from Tommy Bahama. PHOTOGRAPHER: Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com).

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FUNNY STUFF! BROUGHT TO YOU BY

“Cat(s) On A Hot Tin Roof & The Dog Days Of Summer!”

Send your funny pet 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!

Throw a dog a bone? It’s so hot out Sophie wants a bone-shaped pool instead!

Dog paddle? Oh, please!

Kitty cat brothers Andy and Max can’t swim, they need life jackets!

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

SINCE 1998, Biz X IS DELIVERED FREE OF CHARGE TO EVERY REGISTERED BUSINESS IN WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY (10,000) AS DETERMINED BY CANADA POST. (NUMBER 03524213)

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

PRESIDENT Deborah Jones VICE-PRESIDENT Colin Jones OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator Shelley Oswald, Account Executive

This canine pup was born to be wild and is ready to hit the road.

Ahoy, Matey! Odin is definitely a sea dog

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jack Rosenberg WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS Lori Baldassi Julianna Bonnett David Clark Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh Andrea Grimes Alan Halberstadt Dave Hall Dave Halliday Chelsea Humphreys Justin Lafontaine Marlene Markham-Gay Steven Mayo Joe McParland Jim Murphy Andrea Pontoni Victoria Rose Rebecca Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS Rodney L. Denis Photography Josie Elysia PRODUCTION DESIGN Rae Marie MAILING & DELIVERY ADDRESS FOR Biz X ONLY

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CALL 519-977-2199 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. Biz X MAGAZINE IS OWNED BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. AND 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 ©2019 BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD.

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B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

from the publisher

Enter Your Nominations Online Now For The 22nd Annual “Biz X Awards”

By Deborah Jones

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know I have written this before — but, where does the time go? It feels like we just celebrated the “Blackjack 21: A Run Of Good Luck” winners and now, here we go again for the 2019 Biz X Awards!

Regardless, the publishing of our summer issue is an exciting time of the year for us as we learn through incoming nominations which businesses and people our readers believe are doing a great job. And that is always a good thing!

So let’s get cracking now on year 22. As usual, our nomination/voting process uses the latest technology via our website to allow for plenty of social media interaction. So be sure to share the nomination and voting links everywhere you can!

Here again is a quick rundown on how the awards process works. With the publishing of our summer edition, the categories are officially released and nominations are accepted on our website: BizXmagazine.com.

Readers can nominate the businesses and people in Windsor Essex who they believe are the best in each category and deserve to be recognized.

So if you own a business, ask your customers to nominate you ASAP! Nominations are accepted from mid-July until September 11 at noon.

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.

Nominees are made public on the Biz X website when voting commences at noon September 12 and continues through to 5 p.m. September 26.

During the voting period you can go online to: BizXmagazine.com and cast your vote for your choice to win the 2019 Biz X Award in its respective category. You can also vote using your smart phone or tablet via our mobile friendly voting site.

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 to ensure your nomination was received by us.

Once you nominate an individual or a business you will receive a confirmation email showing it was properly submitted. If you DO NOT receive this email (check your spam folder too) we did NOT receive your nomination. Please check all sections were filled out, you have answered the captcha question and re-submit the form.

If you or your business is fortunate to be nominated, you will be contacted to supply further details on your qualifications, history, and

to confirm information supplied by nominators.

Once the polls open in September, don’t be shy to toot your own horn. Do whatever you can to get your customers to vote for you on the Biz X website — use social media and your own website to get those votes coming in!

Remember that vote tallies are only a portion 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.

The next step involves the Judges meeting in the fall to determine the final winners. The Judges do not know the 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.

In the past 22 years, Biz X has awarded over 700 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.)

Now that we have entered our third decade of award winners, certain categories from years back are re-used to allow for new businesses in those industries to have the opportunity to be included.

Once again, there are six staple categories awarded every year — “Outstanding New Business,” “Powerhouse Professional,” “Artist of the Year,” “Best Little Retail Shop,” “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot” and “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year.” For 2019, a seventh annual category, “Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year” has been added.

Listed 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 vote in any category, since they could be patrons of the business.

Please follow the rules below to ensure that your nomination counts . . .

1. Only nominate ONE company/person per award category. Businesses/people are only permitted to win one award each year. All nominees must be over 19 years of age.

2. Be certain that the company or individual you are nominating fits with the category’s criteria.

3. The business/person you nominate must be located (or reside) in Windsor or Essex County and NOT be part of a national franchise/chain or nonprofit organization (except for categories in the PEOPLE section and category #22). The PEOPLE section (#8 to #13) is judged on the individual and not the company itself and those working for chains/

B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

NOMINATE YOUR FAVOURITE

BUSINESSES AND

PEOPLE

UNTIL NOON

SEPT. 11, 2019 @: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM

VOTING TAKES PLACE SEPT. 12 (NOON) TO SEPT. 26, 2019 (5 P.M.) franchises and non-profits are eligible to participate only in this section. An exception for category #22 is also allowed as many national organizations have local chapters hosting events.

4. Every business in Essex County (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 don’t 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.

Good luck to all area businesses, and if you are lucky enough to win . . . you and your guests receive a complimentary invitation to the 22nd annual “Biz X Awards Gala” (held November 15 at St. Clair College Centre For The Arts with decor by Designs

by Diane and Joe McParland as MC); a plaque from The Trophy Boys in Windsor; a write-up in our November/December Awards Edition and are declared #1 in your category.

So be sure to check your email account in August or early September to see if we contact you about an awards nomination. Visit: BizXmagazine.com for the very latest information and watch for the September issue to learn how to vote in the 22nd annual “Biz X Awards.”

And now we present the. . .

2019 BIZ X AWARD CATEGORIES

* See rules in second column before nominating * BUSINESS & SERVICE (*no chains/non-profits allowed) 1. “Outstanding New Business Of 2019” (Businesses that opened from September 1, 2018 to September 1, 2019.) *No restaurants/food trucks or bars as these are included in the Hospitality & Entertainment Categories.

2. “Home Sweet New Home Builder” (If this company builds it, they will come! Think about the style of homes they construct, price range, experience, professional association memberships.)

3. “The One Stop Print Shop To Always Copy” (From business cards to wedding invites and everything in between, this printer always makes a good impression with quick service, quality work and terrific prices.)

4. “Above Water Co. Creating A Big Splash” (To fit our award’s theme, we’re looking for businesses selling items or providing a service used on or in the water! For example, swimsuits and boats/jet skis/kayaks or even swimming pools, pool chemicals or canoe rentals.)

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.

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NOMINATIONS OPEN UNTIL NOON ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2019 @BIZXMAGAZINE.COM 6. “Kickin’ Karate Kid School” (A Martial Arts school with child classes to learn discipline and respect for others trained by qualified, experienced instructors.)

7. “The Grass Is Always Greener With This Lawncare Service” (For small residential jobs like cutting the grass and property maintenance such as tree trimming to commercial landscaping companies with custom designs to make your yard the envy of the street!)

PEOPLE 8. “2019 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.)

9. “Artist Of The Year” (Singer, painter, musician, sculptor, band, actor only.) *No authors, photographers or corporate entertainment businesses.

10. “The Only Optometrist To See” (Your eyes are your most important physical asset so look for an experienced, caring doctor with plenty of availability.)

11. “Marvelous Millennial Manager” (This category will prove there are plenty of hard working young people, approximately 20 to 40 years of age, who manage their own businesses to the max.) *Nominees in this category cannot participate in #8.

12. “The Injury Lawyer It Doesn’t Hurt To Hire” (From dog bites, slip and falls, car accidents and more, if you are in pain and cannot work, the right lawyer is important. Check their winning record, reputation, how many years in practice etc.)

13. “Fitness Instructor Forever Rising To The Challenge” (Whether it be a personal trainer or an

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instructor for yoga, spinning, Zumba, aerobics, Pilates and more, the individual who pushes you to the limits!) *No coaches for any type of sports please.

RETAIL (*no chains/non-profits allowed) 14. “The Best Little Retail Shop Of 2019” (Open to all retailers with good prices, fantastic customer service and selection) *They must have a storefront, no on-line businesses please and if a specific category listed for their type of business, they can only participate in that category. *Nominees in #15 to #19 cannot participate in category #14 15. “First Class Second Hand Boutique” (It’s the real deal here. The consignment or resale shop that surprises its shoppers with great finds in clothing, purses, toys, books etc., at fantastic prices!)

16. “Simply Sew Amazing Supply Co.” (If you love to knit, crochet or make quilts this business keeps you in stitches with the best products around and maybe even offers lessons as well.)

17. “Perfect Present Palace” (No matter what the occasion is and how picky those people are on your shopping list, this gift shop/artist market stocks plenty of products guaranteed to put a smile on every face.)

18. “The Sharp Dressed Man’s Casual Store” (For those dress down days at the office or family outings when men need casual, fashionable items like shirts, pants and shorts sold by a staff with a passion for fashion.)

19. “Ethnic Market Making A World Of Difference” (Windsor Essex is made up of many different cultures — Mexican, Indian, Italian, Chinese, Polish and more.

This market sells grocery items and/or ethnic products

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and is a little piece of home for local immigrants.) *No restaurants or farmers’ markets, retail storefronts only.

HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT (*no chains/non-profits allowed; exception #22) 20. “Restaurant That’s Hot, Hot, Hot For 2019” (Can be a new or an existing restaurant/bar & grill or food truck that offers exceptional cuisine, fair prices and has a unique, trendy atmosphere.)

21. “Delectable Diner To Start The Day” (Whether you like your eggs over easy or scrambled, crave an omelette or blueberry pancakes, this diner offers good value for the money, plenty of choices on their breakfast menu and friendly servers ready to wish you good morning!) *Those in this category cannot be in #20 as well.

22. “The Most Wonderful Event Of The Year” (Annual runs, golf tournaments, motorcycle rides etc.; if they fundraise for a charity, brownie points are given!) *Non-profits and charities can participate as a special exception as can fairs, festivals and trade shows.

23. “Everyone’s Cup Of Tea” (The Tea Room to enjoy that perfect cuppa tea with a friend. They must specialize in selling tea to drink on site, hot or cold, but can sell coffee too. Deciding factors can include selection of teas, baked goods, number of tables.)

24. “Happy Campers Heaven” (When you want to rough it, the cottage/cabin rental business or a local campground to visit. Consider if they have electrical hookups, water, restrooms, nearby attractions for entertainment, outdoor activities on site like a swimming pool, beach, fishing etc.) *No hotels/motels/B&Bs.

CORPORATE PROFILE

Majors McGuire Inc. Has The Answers You Need To Provide Industry-Leading Levels Of On-The-Job Safety Biz X magazine interviews Owner Ron McGuire to learn how area businesses and organizations can integrate a health and safety program that meets their individual needs, while keeping all employees “out of harm’s way.”

Q. What kind of business is Majors McGuire Inc? A. We currently have four service lines: safety training, safety site representation, confined space rescue team services, and HR/safety consulting. We also have working relationships with the WindsorEssex Homebuilders’ Association, the Multicultural Council of Canada and the Windsor Construction Academy/Ministry of Education through high school masonry and carpentry programs. We support Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) claims and mediation, aid with Ministry of Labour (MOL) work orders, and we provide consultation assistance with general HR policies and procedures, and the development of health and safety management systems.

Q. Where is Majors McGuire Inc based?

A. We started 25 years ago right here in Windsor. We now have 25 staff mainly scattered across our Windsor, Leamington, Wallaceburg, and Ingersoll locations to service all of Southwestern Ontario. We’ve grown to also service greater Toronto and can support as far east as Ottawa.

Q. Have you recently added any new services that you wish to tell the readers about?

A. We now have an online Supervision course to assist those supervisors who cannot take a full day off work to attend an instructorled course. This was developed in response to various client requests to allow supervisors to complete the course in their own time.

We’re also adding a one-day Rescue portion to our existing Confined Space offering. In addition, we’re offering most of these courses in Spanish, if needed.

Q. What differentiates your offerings from others?

A. Flexibility. We frequently provide training on one to three days notice at our clients’ facilities, as they rush to ensure their workers are properly trained before heading out to their job site. We also support clients when they are issued a MOL stop work order, by immediately visiting the location and working with them and the MOL to ensure they get back on track as quickly as possible.

Q. What training credentials do you have?

A. We are a CPO Approved (Chief Prevention Officer, MOL) training provider for our Working at Heights courses. We are also TSSA Approved for CH-02 propane handling, and WSIB Approved for Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG).

Our Standard First Aid/ CPR course is Perri-Med certified, and our Confined Space Rescue follows NFPA

The Majors McGuire team — Ryan McGuire, Liz Pertras, Ron McGuire and Tim Pelling. Photo courtesy of Melissa Pertras. standards. All of our courses comply with published CSA standards and MOL regulations.

Q. If your company could be compared to a movie, which movie would it be?

A. I often say we are like the Ghostbusters. We service various urgent client calls asking us to send someone over right away and we take great pride in being prepared to competently assist with those calls.

Q. What current trends are you seeing in the workplace?

A. We have seen steady growth in the agribusiness industry (wineries and greenhouses) as well as a continued awareness by companies to support mental health and address substance abuse in the workplace.

We have noticed that business owners these days commonly experience spikes in activity when scrambling to deal with issues they simply don’t have enough time to deal with. We leverage our experience to act as a reliable strategic partner able to take care of the training, certification and other related matters our clients can’t get to, so they can focus on managing their core operations.

Online Supervisor Due Diligence course.

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editorial viewpoint

Regional Winemaking Should Be Profitable As Well As Fun

By Alan Halberstadt *If you have a comment on this topic, please post it under my column in the CITY section of BizXmagazine.com

T

he Ontario government is undertaking a comprehensive review to get further information on its plan to expand the sale of alcoholic beverages into corner, grocery and big box stores.

As part of this review, the government has committed to reviewing the tax regime for alcoholic beverages.

This is the promise of Premier Doug Ford, and it was a focus of a late spring conversation I had with two of Essex County’s young movers and shakers in the domestic wine industry.

I sat on the patio of the retail tasting room at Muscedere Vineyards Estate Winery with Melissa Muscedere, President of the Essex Pelee Island Coast (EPIC) Winegrowers Association and EPIC Vice President Steve Wilson of Oxley Estate Winery, talking about the aspirations of the burgeoning wine industry in Essex County.

It turned out to not be an ideal place for an interview. A baby goat, which had arrived at the farm earlier that morning, was running back and forth on the patio’s periphery, interrupting our discourse with blood curdling cries.

Wilson wisely suggested that we move inside where it was quiet, and I was soon sampling a glass of Muscedere’s 2016 Cabernet France, an exceptional mediumbodied wine, from the bar.

I received a crash course from the EPIC brass on what it takes to operate one of 17 wineries in Lake Erie’s North Shore winery district. It takes a mixture of

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The executive board members of the EPIC Winegrowers Association, from left: Jean Qian, Vivace Estate Winery; Steve Wilson, Oxley Estate Winery; Melissa Muscedere, Muscedere Vineyards; Dylan Reimer, Pelee Island Winery and Steve Mitchell, Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. Photo courtesy of EPIC.

Canada’s most ideal climate for grape growing with the passion and dogged work ethic of vintners, many of them young offshoots of farming parents.

“These are family businesses, with family members doing the majority of the work,” explains Wilson, who has helped his parents sustain the Oxley winemaking while running a skate sharpening business with his father Murray.

Oxley Estate Winery, 533 County 50 Road East in Harrow, was launched only 10 years ago by planting 17 acres of grapes.

“Winemaking is a calling of creativity,” continues Steve. “You have to be passionate.

It’s a phenomenal amount of work. You’re not making money, and when you do it goes right back into the winery.”

The story is the same for the Muscedere

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farm, purchased by the family in 1986, and transformed into vineyards beginning in 2001.

Located on 7437-7549 County Road 18 in Harrow, the enterprise is overseen by two parents, two sons, one a full-time teacher, and front person Melissa, who calls winemaking “a labour of love.”

Most of the 17 wineries in Essex County are recent arrivals, launched since the turn of the century.

Interestingly, the Lake Erie North Shore is one of Canada’s oldest grape growing regions, begun on Pelee Island in 1871. But, winemaking disappeared for over a half century until 1979 when grape growing was reintroduced to the island.

Today Pelee Island Winery is located on the mainland, having moved to 455 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville in 1982. (They also have the Pelee Island Winery Pavilion, 20 East West Road, Pelee Island).

Colio Estate Winery in Harrow, established in 1980, is the other pioneer.

The growth spurt has put the Essex Region into the top three most important districts in the province, along with Niagara and Prince Edward County.

Symbolic of this is the lead role the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce has taken in pressing the provincial government to eliminate crippling taxes on the domestic wine industry that have kept people like Melissa and Steve slaving away for no financial returns.

Unlike other winemaking countries and provinces, Ontario imposes a 35 percent import tax and a 6.1 percent retail store tax on wine produced by their own small to medium family-owned businesses.

It is estimated that the two taxes together add $4 to the cost of a bottle of domestic wine purchased in the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) outlets or in the three big retail store chains — Loblaws, Metro and Sobeys — licenced to sell wine in the province.

These unfair taxes were brought to the attention of local chamber President and CEO Rakesh Naidu by Tom O’Brien of Harrow’s eight year old Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards (1425 Iler Rd, Harrow), which is undergoing a rapid expansion of its food and wine operations.

Naidu, appointed to the top chamber job last December, quickly took up the torch and after consulting area industry experts concluded the tax upon a tax doesn’t make sense.

At the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s annual general meeting on April 4, 2019 Naidu won unanimous approval for Essex Region’s resolution urging the government to eliminate the two taxes and end the LCBO’s monopoly on the sale and distribution of Ontario wines.

Right now the mark-up for Ontario wine is exactly the same as imported wine.

That’s because the government-owned LCBO has a monopoly that allows it to serve as the importer (1st tier), distributor (2nd tier) and retailer (3rd tier) in our home market.

Ontario’s domestic wines are taxed the same as international wines due to international trade obligations.

In the U.S., wineries are not subject to

an importer mark-up. The Ontario wineries want the same tax treatment as their foreign competitors.

This can be achieved by enabling domestic wineries to direct deliver to new private retailers. For wines sold through the LCBO, there should be a rebate or tax credit for that import portion.

Ontario-made wine holds a measly 24 percent of the LCBO’s market share, a pittance compared to other wine-producing nations, who heavily subsidize their domestic winemakers.

“There is vast potential to become a world-wide player.”

Steve Wilson, Oxley Estate Winery The Ford review will no doubt carefully examine the revenue the LCBO will lose by agreeing to the chamber recommendations.

The finance ministry reports that the LCBO cash cow is expected to generate $2.3 billion in revenue this year.

EPIC is a marketing coalition consisting of 12 wineries on the Lake Erie North Shore promoting events throughout the year to bring customers to their wine tasting

bars, restaurants and banquet facilities.

These money-making accessories to the actual winemaking have become necessary to the industry’s survival.

In June, EPIC introduced a marketing partnership with Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) in which a $25 digital tasting pass offers complimentary tastings, premium samples, a free wine glass and vineyard tours at the 11 participating wineries. You can purchase a pass online at: EpicWineries.com.

Meanwhile, Oxley’s Steve Wilson can hardly harness his excitement at the prospect of the chamber’s reforms coming to fruition.

“We’re ready to go,” he informs me.

“There is vast potential to become a worldwide player.”

His father Murray, the local representative on The Wine Council of Ontario, predicts the number of wineries could increase to 50 or 60 in southwestern Ontario.

TWEPI reports that our region’s share of Ontario’s $3.3 billion wine economy has been identified as a key source of revenue generation and job creation. Every bottle of Ontario wine generates $40 of economic impact, according to TWEPI. Surely that’s something free enterpriser Doug Ford can understand.

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FRONTLINES

Pinnacle Plus Realty Launches It took four friends less than a year to launch a new Windsor business venture and secure their future by working for themselves, rather than for someone else.

John Isshak, the new agency’s Broker of Record, Eddie Azar, Larry Pickle and Mac Laforest, were all working for RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd. when they decided to branch out on their own and open Pinnacle Plus Realty on a well-travelled stretch of Tecumseh Road East.

“We started talking about it about a year ago and the more we talked the better it sounded,” says Isshak, who has almost 30 years of real estate experience. “We simply wanted to become our own bosses and experience something different. We can control our own destiny now and secure our future and that of our families.”

The company was launched in early March, followed by six weeks of renovations with the office opening in mid-April.

It’s a small agency at the moment with five agents, including the four partners, as well as Melissa D’Angela and office administrator Michelle Allen, but there’s ample room for growth. Azar hopes to have as many as two dozen additional agents in place by the end of this year.

“John and I have known each other for almost 30 years and it seemed a natural fit to do something together,” states Azar, who handled land development projects for Raymax Construction before getting his real estate licence five years ago. “I’ve always been an entrepreneur and this provides a great opportunity to better ourselves and the lives of our families.”

While competing in an already crowded marketplace, the four partners are trying to differentiate themselves from the pack by offering

Larry Pickle, Eddie Azar, Broker of Record John Isshak and Mac Laforest, pose outside their new Pinnacle Plus Realty Ltd. offices on Tecumseh Road East. Photo by Dave Hall.

in-house marketing services from Cynthia Ballard of CB Marketing, as well as top-quality personal service.

“I think people are getting more comfortable working with a small boutique agency such as ours, because we are able to focus all our efforts on our clients who can sometimes get lost when working with a large agency,” believes Pickle, who left his job at FCA Canada’s Windsor Assembly Plant in 2010 after working part-time as a real estate agent since 2006.

Laforest, meanwhile, is relatively new to the real estate business with three years experience, but is equally enthusiastic and committed to building a new agency from the ground up.

“We’ve always worked well together, we’re friends and this is a new opportunity for all of us to do something new and exciting,” says Laforest.

The agency is located at 5444 Tecumseh Road East and more information is available on: PinnaclePlusRealty.com.

Maryvale Raffle Keeps Your Eyes On The Prize Joe Di Carlo is keeping a promise to his late father Ersilio while at the same time helping to raise funds for Maryvale Adolescent and Family Services on the city of Windsor’s far west side.

Di Carlo, Co-Owner of CSN Collision Centre JJ Dominion, is donating a 1980 Corvette Stingray as the main prize in a raffle in the organization’s fundraising activities.

“I bought the car second-hand in 1984 or 1985 and my dad made me promise to never sell it,” says Di Carlo smiling. “Well, I’m keeping that promise by donating it to a good cause.”

So when Tony Meriano, a friend who is a volunteer with Maryvale, suggested jokingly that Di Carlo give him a car for the raffle, Di Carlo decided that he would.

“I grew up in the west end and I know how important Maryvale is to the community,” says Di Carlo.

Maryvale Executive Director Connie Martin indicates money raised through the raffle will be used to hire a full time counselor to help the 70 to 80 adolescents currently waiting for counselling services.

“We were overwhelmed by Joe’s generosity,” adds Martin. “It truly is a wonderful opportunity to help us provide services that we desperately need in this community.”

Tickets — sold throughout the summer — are $20 each or three for $50 and available in Windsor at CSN/JJ Dominion at 2100 South Pacific Street; CSN Riverside Collision, 1325 Lauzon Road; Maryvale, 3640 Wells Street and Dr. Patrick Xavier Smith’s office, 7875 Riverside Drive East. The final date for ticket sales was not determined at the time of writing.

Celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, Maryvale was established in 1929 and provides counselling services for troubled

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Joe Di Carlo, Co-Owner of CSN Collision Centre JJ Dominion, poses with his 1980 Corvette, which he is donating to Maryvale Adolescent and Family Services as the main prize in the organization’s annual fundraising raffle. Photo by Dave Hall.

youth and their families. It also provides acute care beds for children as young as seven years of age who are experiencing mental health issues.

Most of the organizations’ clients are between the ages of 13 and 16 and services provided include after school programs, counselling, specialized schooling and psychiatric services for teens, children and parents.

In addition to its Wells Street facility in Windsor, Maryvale also has a location at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Centre, 249 Sherk Street. For more information on their programs and the raffle, see their website: Maryvale.ca.

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FRONTLINES New Owner Gets Cooking At Uptown Restaurant A well-established breakfast spot in central Windsor has changed hands after 23 years, but the new owner plans very little in the way of changes.

Amir Damadi, a recent arrival from Iran, has bought the Uptown Restaurant at 521 Tecumseh Road East, from the Safas family.

Specializing in hearty home-cooked meals for both breakfast and lunch, the restaurant has been run by Sam Safas and husband Jimmy for more than two decades with son Bill working in the kitchen and daughter Sevi Cipparrone serving in the dining area, in recent years. Cipparrone earned the “Tip Top Server” Biz X Award in 2017 with the restaurant winning the “Soup & Sandwich Shangrila” category in 2005.

“We’re not changing anything really,” Damadi informs us. “All we’re doing is adding a couple of menu items such as a veggie burger, vegetarian Eggs Benedict, fresh fruit plates and fresh-squeezed orange juice.”

He adds that the hours remain the same with Sam managing the restaurant and Bill running the kitchen.

“It’s business as usual at the Uptown,” Sam emphasizes. “I’ve enjoyed it and I still do, but it was time to take a step back and let someone else take over. This was a godsend and I love it.”

Over the years, Sam’s mom, sisters, cousins and nieces have all taken turns working in the restaurant — filled with decorations and artifacts from years past — as well as photos of long-time customers.

Uptown Restaurant new Owner Amir Damadi and former Co-Owner Sam Safas, who has stayed on as Manager, pose in the popular restaurant’s dining room. Few changes are planned and it will be business as usual at the breakfast and lunch spot. Photo by Dave Hall.

Damadi, who brings management experience from the construction industry to the table, says he has long wanted to own a restaurant.

“It’s a perfect situation for me and Sam,” Damadi believes.

“I’m learning every day and I’m loving it.”

Safas, who was a legal secretary before joining her husband at the Uptown, states Damadi “has come a long way since day one and he’s picking it up quickly.”

In addition to a few menu tweaks, Damadi has added 10 percent meal discounts for police, fire and hospital personnel, as well as 15 percent early-bird discounts before 8:30 a.m.

He also plans more visible signage and new landscaping features adjacent to the restaurant.

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FRONTLINES B.C. Investor Takes Comfort In Award Winning Windsor Hotel

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ess than a year after being purchased by a British Columbia-based investor, the Comfort Inn South Windsor (2955 Dougall Avenue) has been named winner of a 2019 “Gold Award” from Choice Hotels International, franchisor of the Comfort Inn brand.

“We are very happy to be recognized this quickly,” says new owner William Zhao (WBSZ Holdings), who also owns three hotels in B.C. “It’s a tribute to our management, staff and our excellent customer relations.”

Zhao purchased the hotel last November and has spent months renovating the property and replacing beds, televisions, carpeting and window coverings. The hotel didn’t close during the project as Zhao’s team went room-by-room to complete the job with few disruptions.

Zhao (standing second from right) and Justin Barker (standing second from left) pose with some of the employees of the Comfort Inn South Windsor celebrating their “Gold Award” win during a staff appreciation dinner in mid-June at Paramount Fine Foods restaurant, 3184 Unit A5 Dougall Avenue. Photo courtesy of Justin Barker.

William Zhao, the new owner of the Comfort Inn on Dougall Avenue, specializes in buying small hotel properties before making major renovations.

Photo courtesy of WBSZ Holdings.

Zhao reveals he was attracted to the property because of its high-traffic location on one of the city’s busiest routes and also by the relatively low cost of real estate in the Windsor area.

“It was an attractive investment because Windsor is growing, the economy is going well and the prices are right for investment,” Zhao states. “If I can find

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the right properties, I plan to invest more in Windsor.”

He adds: “I’m very happy with my investment and we have been welcomed already by our guests.”

The hotel has 83 rooms and a staff of 32 led by General Manager Justin Barker.

“This award is more about our employees than management,” stresses Barker, crediting his staff with the smooth running of the hotel. “Many of them have been here for more than 30 years and they just keep it ticking over.”

The hotel opened in 1987 as a Journey’s End and was rebranded as a Comfort Inn in 1994.

The award is given to only the top 10 percent of hotels within the Choice brand

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and it is a reflection of management’s exceptional focus on superior service. It is based on the company’s property ranking reports.

“As a leading hotel franchisor, we count on our owners to make sure each guest that stays at each and every one of our hotels feels welcome, wanted and respected,” says Tim Tobin, a Vice-President for Choice Hotels. “Award-winning hotels like the Comfort Inn South Windsor have demonstrated their commitment to delivering on this brand promise and more, and we are proud to honour their accomplishments as an example for others to follow.”

For reservations, check in online at: ChoiceHotels.ca/cn318.

HEARD ON THE STREET The Manchester Pub, a downtown gathering spot for sports fans of many different teams and generations, at 546 Ouellette Avenue, has changed hands with James Currie taking over from Tom Sotiriadis. Citing ongoing health issues in a post on Facebook, Sotiriadis writes it has “been a difficult and emotional decision.” He thanked his wife Amanda and daughter Maddy for all their help over the years, as well as all current and former staff members, including Dave Greenwood who stepped in and ran the pub for a time, for making The Manchester “a great place to eat and listen to some great local musicians and be happy.” Currie is Co-Owner and Director of Operations for C&M Hospitality, which also owns Smoke & Spice Southern Barbeque in both Windsor and Sarnia, as well as The Hawg Bar in Sarnia, according to LinkedIn. Currie was unavailable for comment before press time.

Larry Horwitz, left, Vice-Chair of the Wyandotte Towne Business Improvement Association; Justin Lajeunesse, Owner of Winex Construction and Christine Wilson Furlonger, Executive Director of Street Help, discuss plans for building improvements at 964 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor. Photo by Dave Hall.

Street Help, Windsor’s self-funded homeless centre for disadvantaged youth is about to receive some help of its own. An initiative launched by Larry Horwitz, Vice-Chair of the Wyandotte Town Centre Business Improvement Association and Christine Wilson Furlonger, Executive Director of Street Help, will soon see the organization’s building at 964 Wyandotte Street East spruced up and painted. Justin Lajeunesse, Owner of Winex Construction, has donated his company’s time to paint the building and has

arranged for Dulux Corporation to supply the paint. “It was as simple as Larry asking and us saying yes,” Lajeunesse comments. “When you have an opportunity to help someone or an organization that does so much with so little, how can you refuse?” Furlonger said the offer is much appreciated and she expects it will make a huge difference. “We’ve been here for 10 years and the building looked like this when we moved in, so it will be nice to see it cleaned up,” she adds. Horwitz indicates that it’s all part of a plan to create a spirit of co-operation between the homeless centre and the remainder of the retail, commercial and hospitality neighbourhood. “Christine’s group hasn’t been made to feel as welcome as they should be, given all the work they do to help people in need,” Horwitz believes. He says the organization is completely self-funded through donations and the money is directed to programming and helping homeless youth, which leaves little or nothing for building maintenance or improvements.

This year’s “Chaps and Spurs Country Festival” scheduled for August 16 & 17 at Lanspeary Park in Windsor, has been cancelled with promoter Joe Garon of Turnkey Entertainment and Promotions blaming “unforeseen circumstances.” When contacted by Biz X, Garon adds “a few obstacles occurred in the past three years and the reason for the cancellation was mostly over internal issues.” The event had been nominated one of the best five music festivals in the region by Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island in 2017 and 2018. Sadly, the loss of the revenue from this event also affects the charity involved, the Windsor Essex chapter of Autism Ontario. Organizers say that ticket purchasers will be receiving an email explaining how to go about getting refunds.

Joe Ciaravino, Owner of Antonino’s Original Pizza, has decided to break with tradition and serve beer and wine for the first time, at his recently-opened, new restaurant at 4350 Howard Avenue in Windsor. Soon, only one red and one white wine, both local, will be served,

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along with Old Vienna on tap, his dad Antonino’s favourite beer. “Our original location next door didn’t have enough space to serve alcohol and I didn’t want our franchisees (who operate other locations at 1695 Manning Road in Tecumseh and 6535 Malden Road in LaSalle) testing it, so when we opened the new restaurant with more space, I decided to give it a try.” The new restaurant has 20 seats inside and another 16 on a small patio.

Patrons order at a counter and staff bring out the food, including a new salad-in-a-bread-bowl option (now available at all locations) and authentic Italian gelato currently being tested at the South Windsor location only. “As with the beer and wine, we plan to roll out the gelato at our other two locations if it proves to be a good seller at South Windsor,” adds Ciaravino.

Webb’s Steakhouse has closed its doors at 1640 Lesperance Road in Tecumseh. The restaurant, which opened in February 2016, closed in late May and owners couldn’t be reached for comment by press time.

There are still plenty of great dining options in the nearby Tecumseh Towne Centre plaza with La Rucola Italian Restaurant and Tabouli by Eddy’s. The space, occupied until recently by Webb’s, was previously home to The RyeGate and the Tecumseh Chop House.

A new food experience has been launched by WindsorEats.com featuring tastings of poutine, which has become one of Canada’s most wellknown comfort foods. “It’s the only poutine walking tour we have been able to find and it’s fascinating for both visitors and residents alike who are interested in Canadian history, as well as various types of poutine,” says Adriano Ciotoli, Co-Owner of WindsorEats.com. “All I can tell you is that it’s a gluttonous experience — and to wear stretchy pants!” he adds laughing. Participating restaurants include Malic’s Restaurant and Delicatessen, Mazaar Lebanese Cuisine, Bread Meats Bread, and Phog Lounge. The tours run every Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. According to WindsorEats.com, the weekly event enables participants to “explore the dark alleys covered with graffiti and learn historical Canadian facts while tasting variations of poutine.” For more information and to purchase a $45 ticket, go online to: WindsorEats.com/places/ dirty-poutine-experience.

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN One of Windsor’s top recruitment firms ushers in a new era and redefines the industry with a fresh new look and suite of services for their clients across the region. E3WORKS is the new face of work solutions and is the next phase in the recruitment/consulting industry’s evolution. Formerly known as Devine Personnel, the company has re-branded under the corporate banner of E3WORKS to better align with the changing market, increased customer demand, and to show the public they’ve evolved into something entirely new and game changing. Grant Molyneux, President and Kyle Devine, Business Development Partner want to offer something different to their customers. In an already saturated market, it can be difficult to be unique.

In the last five years they’ve provided exceptional services to their customers, established longlasting community connections and challenged what it means to be a “work solutions partner.”

Over the years, they’ve worked through some unique challenges to expand their knowledge and expertise to what is now part of their new solutions suite: Premium Hiring Packages; Industry Leading Tech; HR/Health & Safety Consulting; Retention/Succession Planning; Top Level Talent Acquisition; Professional Contracting; Personality/ Aptitude Testing and a Digital Testing Platform.

Standard staffing/recruitment services are still offered via their office at 4525 Rhodes Drive #200 in Windsor. More about this firm at: E3Works.ca.

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum (277 King Street; AmherstburgFreedom.org) and Taylor Log Cabin have some great news to share with Biz X readers! “It is an honour to celebrate the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant award to the Amherstburg Freedom Museum of $119,700,” says Taras Natyshak, MPP for Essex. “The grant will ensure the museum and historic Taylor Log Cabin continue to inspire generations, while serving as a reminder of the core values our nation is founded on.” The upgrade and renovation of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum included the replacement of lighting fixtures and drop ceiling, replacement of gallery windows and of the roof.

In addition to these upgrades, the renovation included the replacement of the roof and siding of the historic Taylor Log Cabin, which was the home of a formerly enslaved person, George Taylor and his descendants. Capital improvements have enhanced the overall appeal of the site, making it more visitor-friendly, accessible, while providing cost-savings via energy efficient lighting and windows. Mary-Katherine Whelan, Curator/ Administrator, mentions “These renovations ensure the safeguarding of the museum’s collections, historic properties and permanent

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galleries, all of which focus on presenting and preserving the history of Underground Railway in Canada and legacies of those Freedom Seekers and their descendants who built their lives in Essex County during and after that period.”

Rilynn Madison Rose Ouellette purchased a t-shirt for $25 to donate to Clicks For A Cure in honour of a few family members who had cancer.

Photo courtesy of Camera Queen Photography.

Danielle Lankin, a Windsor photographer with Camera Queen Photography has started a fundraiser initiative after her friend, Tabitha Wegner, was taken by a terrible disease, as was her aunt Ann Pitre. She designed Clicks for A Cure to collect funds for cancer research through photo shoots of any kind and the selling of t-shirts for $25 ($11 from each shirt sold goes to the Cancer Research Society). She has already sold 100 t-shirts at the time of writing and would love to sell even more to reach her fundraising goal of $5,000. Find out how you can help by going to: Facebook.com/CameraQueenPhotograph.

NEW IN BIZ Marriott International, Inc. announced in June the official opening of Four Points by Sheraton Windsor Downtown located at 430 Ouellette Avenue. Managed by Sunray Group (SunrayGroup.ca), Four Points by Sheraton Windsor Downtown, previously under the names Sunbridge Hotel and Holiday Inn, offers 147 spacious guest rooms, over 1,900 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, a 24-hour fitness centre, indoor pool and sun deck, guest laundry, lobby pantry, business centre and free Wi-Fi. (Get more details on the hotel at: FourPointsWindsor.com). Guests can enjoy full-service dining at the lobby level Fionn MacCool’s restaurant pub and the brand’s iconic “Best Brews and BBQ” program, which serves guests refreshing, curated local beers and seasonal appetizers. A customized Four Points Pale Ale from Frank Brewing Company is the inaugural “Best Brew” to kick-start the program.

The Windsor location of Fionn MacCool’s is the 43rd to pop up across five provinces from St. John’s, Newfoundland to Edmonton, Alberta.

“We are thrilled to announce that Fionn MacCool’s Windsor is now open!” states Kristian Neill, General Manager inviting all to “Enjoy live B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

entertainment every Thursday and Saturday and come out to watch the game.” Various seating options are offered, including a private room that accommodates 12. Please note you should call for reservations and hours before heading to the restaurant. Check out their pub fare on: FionnMacCools.com.

Two University of Windsor graduates, Paul Brereton (left) and Jeremy Miller started up The Data Company with help from RBC and the EPICentre. Photo is courtesy of TDC.

The Data Company Inc., a member of the “RBC EPIC Founders Program” (start-up funding and support from the University of Windsor’s EPICentre and RBC), is a new firm focused on putting the power of data analytics into the hands of small and medium sized businesses. University of Windsor MBA graduates, Jeremy Miller and Paul Brereton launched their new firm in late May that focuses on helping business turn their data resources into a strategic advantage. “We want to put the power of data analytics into the hands of businesses of all sizes,” says Miller. “We’ve noticed that while businesses in 2019 are collecting more data than ever, they often lack the knowledge and human capital needed to extract its value. We started The Data Company (TDC) as a solution to that problem.” TDC works with companies and not-for-profit organizations in southwestern Ontario to extract the value from their internal data sources. The new service enables business of all sizes to gain insights from their data and make data-driven decisions without the cost and difficulty of hiring data scientists and analysts.

By providing business intelligence, dashboarding, predictive modelling, machine learning and more, TDC gives a company’s data a seat at the boardroom table. Refer to: TheDataCompany.ca to unlock the power of your data!

ON THE MOVE Webplanet, a web marketing and branding company, has decided to relocate by the end of summer from their existing Tecumseh location to the Hopgood Plaza, 319 Talbot Street North in Essex, ON. The plaza is a three year old commercial building, developed, owned and managed by Brotto Family Holdings. “We’ve been so fortunate over the past 20+ years to have such wonderful clients from all over the world,”

says Webplanet Owner Aaron Peterson. “We’ve decided to expand our company by relocating to a brand new, much larger, and more accessible location that will accommodate our growth. We look forward to welcoming our past, present, and future clients at our new location!” Webplanet was established in 1998, starting out as a local web design and development company, but quickly found success in the industry and expanded to include full-service graphic design, print, branding, and marketing departments, in addition to web. Christian LeFave, President and Managing Partner of Brotto Family Holdings adds, “We are very excited to have such an established and well respected business as Webplanet join Farm Credit Canada in our Hopgood Plaza. With Webplanet coming, Phase 1 of this development is now fully leased out. We do have a second phase available, which will allow us to add another 5,000 square feet of space.” Find out more on both companies at: BrottoFamilyHoldings.com and Webplanet.ca.

The Town of Essex (Essex.ca) has appointed Doug Sweet to the position of Deputy Chief Administrative Officer as of early June 2019. Sweet has served the Town as Director, Community Services since 2013 and Director of Parks and Recreation from 2004 to 2008. He also served as Manager of Arenas and the WFCU Centre for the City of Windsor. He replaces Chris Nepszy, who has taken on the CAO role. Sweet also maintains his work as Director, Community Services. “I look forward to continuing to work with Council and

Doug Sweet is the new Deputy CAO for the Town of Essex. Photo courtesy of the Town of Essex.

staff to improve the quality of life for the citizens of our municipality,” he states.

Gertrude’s Writing Room, the only creative writing school in Essex County, has moved from its first home at 628 Monmouth, to 1899 Niagara — The Stable Yard in the Coach House in Willistead Park. “That’s right, our new home is in Willistead Park — fully accessible and with free parking!” says an excited Owner Vanessa Shields. “The move was made so that Gertrude’s Writing Room would have its very own space and be fully accessible. New location, new home, but same unique workshop and classes!” Check out: GertrudesWritingRoom.com to see how Shields can bring your words to life!

Look for Schinkels’ Meat Market now at their new location at 24 Talbot Street North, Essex Centre, one block down from their previous smaller shop. “After 57 years, we wouldn’t dream of leaving the town,” says Andrea Schinkel.

“Essex is an attractive base because the people are amazing. Many long-term, multigenerational customers and new ones show up every week.”

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The retail meat market and deli sell a wide range of products, from fresh meats, cheese, and bread, to frozen goods and snacks. With the expansion, the business has so far hired 12 additional parttime staff, on top of the 17 current employees.

“This expansion demonstrates the Town of Essex is a great place to invest and grow,” states Nelson Silveira, Town of Essex Economic Development Officer. “Schinkels’ is a perfect example of a longtime, locally-owned business taking advantage of our Community Improvement Plan grants to the benefit of their business, customers, and community.” View: JoinUsInEssex.ca to learn more on opening a business in Essex.

HALL OF FAME The Town of Kingsville and sponsor Libro Credit Union have announced the winners of the 2019 Kingsville “Business Recognition Awards,” held at the end of May, as the following: “Business of the Year”: The Grove Hotel & Brew House (BrewEatSleepRepeat.com); “Business Innovation”: Green Heart Kitchen (GreenHeartLunchClub.com) and “Young Entrepreneur”: Dr. Abby Jakob, (Optometrist and owner of Eyes; AbbeyJacobEyes.com). Winners were selected by a panel of judges from within the Town’s Tourism and Economic Development Committee. Pictures and presentation videos from the ceremony can be found on the Town’s website at: Kingsville.ca/businessawards.

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DATES TO REMEMBER

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Late July/Mid September2019 TO VIEW EVEN MORE EVENTS VISIT: BIZXMAGAZINE.COM AND INPLAYMAGAZINE.COM AND CLICK ON THE “EVENTS” TAB!

*UNLESS NOTED 519 IS THE AREA CODE TO USE

Please be sure to confirm all events before attending.

Submit your listing on: BizXmagazine.com and InPlayMagazine.com

*Publisher’s note: For this summer issue, events taking place in Essex County are listed in the special cover story starting on page 18.

July 27: The Korean War Veterans Association of Canada Inc. commemorates the 66th anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice with a familycentred memorial service honouring our Veterans for their duty and service. Seven Veterans from Windsor/ Essex County served in the Korean War. The service takes place in Dieppe Gardens, 78 Riverside Drive West at 11 a.m. For more information please contact the President of the Korean War Veterans Association for Windsor, Bob Goyeau at 948-3725 or by email: bobgoyeau2@gmail.com.

July 27 & 28: “Moksha’s Diversity Tour 2019” presents the “Windsor Diversity Festival” at the Riverfront Festival Plaza in downtown Windsor as a benefit for Windsor’s Film Camp for Kids. Hours are: Saturday, noon until 10 p.m. and Sunday, noon until 6 p.m. This free, family-friendly event aims to reflect and celebrate our cultural diversity and heritage, while also removing barriers to accessing diverse food, music, crafts and art to celebrate the cultural diversity of our community. Those attending the festival can enjoy: a variety of cultural foods; live musical performances; a kids play zone and drum village; arts/ crafts and networking opportunities. For more details email: windsor@mokshacanada.com; see website: MokshaCanada.com or dial 647-831-7223.

Aug. 6 to 11: The “Windsor-Essex Pride Fest” takes place in various locations throughout the region. Get the full details at: WEpridefest.com.

Aug. 16: The “Ouellette Car Cruise” presented by the Downtown Windsor BIA takes to the streets once again! Cruisers begin gathering at the Riverfront Festival Plaza on Riverside Drive East at 1 p.m. and the cavalcade of roaring engines and shining chrome begins at 6 p.m. Vehicles head towards Ouellette Avenue to Tecumseh Road East to Pillette Road and back to Riverside Drive to end at the plaza (music and fun until 11 p.m.). The cruise builds on the nostalgia of Windsor’s storied automotive history. All vintage, classic, custom, collector and special interest cars, street rods and muscle cars are welcome. Donations

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towards participation are welcome. To learn more, visit: CruisinOuellette.ca; email: debi@downtownwindsor.ca or call 252-5723.

Aug. 16, 17, 18: The “Windsor Psychic Expo” at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue is the city’s largest international psychic expo with private readings, books, crystals, lectures and more. Admission is $10 and good all weekend (includes all psychic demonstrations but private readings cost extra). Hours: Friday noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. To find out more details and to print a discount coupon go to: PsychicExpos.com.

Aug. 18: The fifth “Windsor ANCOP (Answering the Cry of the Poor) Walk” takes place at the Bert Weeks Memorial Gardens, 304 Riverside Drive East on the waterfront, from 9 a.m. until noon. To find out more, email: felicisimoasumen@gmail.com; visit: ANCOPCanada.org or call 254-6564.

Aug. 18: The “Madonna Di Canneto Festival” takes place on the grounds of the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road in Oldcastle beginning at 10 a.m. for mass followed by an 11 a.m. BBQ/picnic; 1 p.m. traditional foods are served and the festivities continue with entertainment until 11 p.m. Check: CiociaroClub.com for the latest details.

Aug. 18: The St. Clair Alumni Association 12th annual “Family Fun Day” at St. Clair College South Windsor Campus, 2000 Talbot Road West, Windsor from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission and free parking! Events include: swimming, Zoo 2 You shows, a BBQ, photo booth, pony and wagon rides, a chance to meet players from the Windsor Spitfires hockey team and more. Visit: StClairAlumni.com or phone 972-2747 with any questions.

Aug. 24: The 11th annual “Bigg Wigglefest” presented by the Rotary of Windsor-Walkerville takes place under the big tent at the Riverside Sportsmen Club, 10835 Riverside Drive East in Windsor from 7 p.m. until 11:45 p.m. Of course as the event name suggests Bigg Wiggle performs but there is also a DJ, BBQ, cash bar and more in store for you! All proceeds benefit special projects supported by The Rotary of Windsor-Walkerville. Admission is $10.

For more information on how to buy tickets, you can

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email: secretary.walkerville.rotary@hotmail.com or gwalexander@hotmail.com; see their social media page at: Facebook.com/RotaryWindsorWalkerville or dial 563-7388.

Sept. 7: The Olde Riverside Town Centre BIA presents the 9th annual “Wheels On Wyandotte Car & Motorcycle Show” 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. from 5300 to 5900 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor. Car and motorcycle registrations start at 9 a.m. This classic car show is one of the best and features family friendly activities, sidewalk sales, shopping in a variety of unique stores, and dining in a number of restaurants and cafes.

Admission is free for the public but there is a $10 registration fee for all vehicles with all proceeds going to Windsor Police Service Camp Brombal for Kids.

For more info email: bscheuerman@cogeco.ca or visit: OldeRiversideBIA.com.

Sept. 13: The 24th annual “Roth Mosey Golf Tournament,” benefitting Family Respite Services tees off at Pointe West Golf Club, 200 Golfwood Drive in Amherstburg. starting at 8 a.m. The Texas Scramble format includes: 18 holes of golf, power cart, breakfast, hot dog and pop at the turn and then dinner to follow. Admission is $220. For further details email: info@familyrespite.org; log on to: RothMosey.com or phone 818-6973.

Sept. 15: Noah’s House presents its second annual golf tournament at Fox Glen Golf Club, 7525 Howard Avenue in McGregor running from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. The $135 ticket includes one round of golf, cart, lunch at the turn and a family style meal including salmon, chicken and steak. Dinner tickets are $60.

Proceeds from the tourney go towards the opening and operation of Noah’s House, a drop-in centre for youth and young adults. To learn more contact Laura Starling via email: info@noahshouse.ca; view the website: NoahsHouse.ca or call 563-7286.

Sept. 16: The 8th annual “Premier Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island Golf Tournament” at Ambassador Golf Club, 1025 Sprucewood Avenue, Windsor with registration at 9 a.m. and the tournament beginning at 10 a.m. Cost to participate is $195. Email Kris Racine at: kracine@tourismwindsoressex.com; online go to: VisitWindsorEssex.com or dial 255-6530.

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Take A Road Trip

Take A Road Trip To A Whole Lot Of Fun In Essex County Cover Story By Dave Hall

To A Whole Lot Of Fun In Essex County

COVER STORY By Dave Hall Jump in the car this summer and take a cruise through the towns of Essex County for a fun filled adventure close to home. Our two explorers head off to Kingsville in style in a 2019 Chevy Corvette Z06 2LZ. Joel Robinson wears a button up shirt by Dockers with Megan Pickersgill in a blue blouse from Velvet by Graham & Spencer, both supplied by The Towne Shoppe, 56 Richmond Street, Amherstburg (TowneShoppe.ca). Vehicle provided by Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC (2016) Limited, 432 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg (AmherstburgGM.com). Photo by Rod Denis.

W

ith summer finally here why not hit the road and visit Essex County’s unique communities? Bring along your significant other, kids or friends and take advantage of what local towns have to offer, from music and arts’ festivals to farmers’ markets and majestic tall ships — not to mention dozens of eclectic restaurants.

Since there’s quite literally something for every taste and age, Biz X magazine has compiled a roundup of the best of the bounty of the county, emphasizing the major events planned around the region, places to wine & dine and even ice cream stops along the way for a cool treat!

“If you’re bored in Essex County this summer, it’s your own fault,” says Gordon Orr, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI). “It’s a good opportunity to get out and explore these great communities and see how diverse our region truly is.”

He adds, “Sometimes, we take it all for granted, but we have a great story to tell in this region and taking time to participate in these events and visit our neighbours is a fantastic way to spend summer weekends.”

Last June the cover story of Biz X focused on wineries, breweries and entertainment

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Kingsville is once again at the forefront of summer excursions as the only Canadian host on Lake Erie for the 2019 “Tall Ships Challenge” Ontario tour. Two of the amazing vessels, which will grace the Kingsville waterfront with their majestic sails for three days, are the Picton Castle, (left) and The Bluenose II, one of the most iconic tall ships in existence.

Photos courtesy of Tall Ships America.

businesses/organizations, like Escape Rooms, the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village, Point Pelee Karting, the Chimczuk Museum, The Rum Runners Tour and Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

For our 2019 summer tourism issue we take a different twist and concentrate on unique county events and tourism-type businesses (minus the obvious things to do like golfing and winery/brewery tours).

Keep in mind that the events profiled are from mid-July to the end of September.

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So pull out your map and a calendar, gas up the family vehicle and discover all there is to do this summer when visiting our area towns.

DESTINATION: KINGSVILLE A variety of major events are featured on Kingsville’s summer schedule, which is guaranteed to draw visitors from across the region and beyond.

Banner credits: Road: © Can Stock Photo/benchart; Restaurant: © Can Stock Photo/graphit; and Ice cream: © Can Stock Photo /vectorplus

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY • One of the most spectacular festivals planned throughout Essex County for 2019 is the “Tall Ships Challenge” Ontario tour, which takes place in the Port of Kingsville August 16 to 18 during the “Tall Ships Festival.”

“We have been working on this for almost two years and it was quite a coup to get this festival to come to Kingsville,” explains Maggie Durocher, Manager of Programs for The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville’s Parks and Recreation Department. “We are the only Canadian port on Lake Erie and we’re very excited about putting on this wonderful event. We’re looking forward to a great weekend with many other events and attractions surrounding the festival.”

In addition to visits by numerous majestic tall ships, the weekend events include daily ship tours, sail excursions, dinner cruises, an artisan and vendor market, on-board entertainment and local cuisine on three different ships. As well, a “Toast to Kingsville” at the Grovedale House features local food, entertainment and nautical displays.

Among the vessels planning to stop in Kingsville are tall ships such as the Bluenose II, Empire Sandy, Picton Castle and Fair Jeanne, as well as the HMCS Oriole and a Canadian Coast Guard ship.

For more information on the “Tall Ships Festival,” visit: Kingsville.ca.

If you’re looking for some locally handcrafted gifts and products along with wine, food, song, great friends and summer vibes, you might want to drop into Pelee Island Winery, 455 Seacliff Drive for the “#heartmade Vendor Market,” which runs from noon until 5 p.m. on July 28, August 25 and September 8.

The market features locally handcrafted gifts and other items, as well as food & drink provided by King’s Landing Catering and Pelee Island wines, says organizer Tara Brown. There is also entertainment by Ray Allen on July 28, Ramble Hill on August 25 with Bob Gabriele and Dan Woods performing on September 8.

Brown, who organizes events for female business owners under the SolopreneurSisters.com banner, says the market is part of the “Summer Sundays” program hosted by the winery.

Get the latest info on the market here: Facebook.com/events/1040097219522730.

Next up, the “Kingsville Folk Music Festival” has become a must-stop on the festival circuit for musicians and fans alike from all across North America.

Staged in Lakeside Park, 315 Queen Street, the three day event — organized by Michele and John Law for the past six years — features musicians, workshops and children’s activities throughout the park.

This year’s featured performers include Serena Ryder, Oscar Lopez, The Swinging Belles, Union Duke, Crissi Cochrane and Danny Michel, as well as Windsor’s Brendan Scott Friel.

The festival runs from August 9 to 11 with the full schedule, plus ticket information, available at: KingsvilleFolkFest.org.

And while out and about in Kingsville, be sure to make a pit stop at the Jack Miner Sanctuary, 332/360 Road 3 West (JackMiner.com) for a honkin’ good time!

There’s no shortage of fine food choices in Kingsville with many restaurants within walking distance of each other along the town’s main street and adjacent side streets.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite after attending all the wonderful events, a visit to one of the town’s restaurants might be in order.

They include Biz X Award winner Mettawas Station Italian Mediterranean Grill, 169 Lansdowne Avenue; Grove Brew House, which features craft beers, at 12 Main Street East; O’Sarracino Trattoria and Wine Bar, an Italian eatery, 31 Main Street West; and Jack’s Gastro Pub, located just a few steps off the main street at 31 Division Street South.

For a tasty treat, visit Cindy’s Home and Garden at 585 Seacliff Drive and peruse their gift selections before enjoying an ice cream cone on the patio adjacent to the store.

They also have a night market on August 9 in the parking lot from 5 to 9 p.m. More details at: CindysGarden.com.

Another cool spot is Dairy Freez, 36 County Road 34 W in Kingsville, just between Cottam and Essex. This family run drive-in restaurant has been serving the area since 1954.

DESTINATION: AMHERSTBURG One of the most interesting events taking place over the summer is the second annual “Amherstburg Uncommon Festival,” in King’s Navy Yard Park along the Detroit River, September 27 to 29.

Organizers invite visitors and residents alike to dress as wizards or in full steampunk costumes for a weekend of magic, cosplay and interaction with odd and peculiar characters along Dalhousie Street.

“We have moved the event from August to September to allow people to go over the B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

Watch out this September for a 18th and 19th century-themed festival taking over the downtown streets and parks of Amherstburg’s quaint historic town. The “Amherstburg Uncommon Festival” is a fusion of steampunk, cosplay and Harry Potter-themed activities now held at the end of September. Expect the unexpected at the “Amherstburg Uncommon Festival!” Photo courtesy of Agatha Knelsen Photos.

top with their costumes and be comfortable in fall weather,” explains Anne Rota, Manager of Tourism and Culture for the Town of Amherstburg. “Last year, ‘Uncommon’ was named ‘Best New Festival’ in Ontario

by Festivals and Events Ontario and this year promises to be even better.”

This year’s event also includes an Innovation Pavilion for children, a concert, an outdoor movie and a “Fantastic Feast” dinner.

For more information you can

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check out the town’s new tourism site: VisitAmherstburg.ca, which was unveiled late June by Cinnamon Toast Media.

The new site celebrates Amherstburg’s assets and quality of life promoting tourism and cultural opportunities. The website includes the town’s fresh, new tourism logo, stunning photography and compelling blogs about all that Amherstburg has to offer. It will help build a competitive tourist and investment industry that attracts new

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markets, a targeted demographic of tourists and savvy consumers while boosting its social media presence.

“Not only will this brand and new website help our town generate brand awareness across key markets, attract an influx of tourism and repeat business, but it will also instill a sense of community pride as we showcase what residents already know about Amherstburg — that it’s an exceptional place to be!” says Mayor Aldo DiCarlo.

Back to the town’s event line up, July 20&21 everybody and their dog can enjoy the seventh annual “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” at the Libro Credit Union Centre.

(WoofaRoo.com has all the info you need!)

For car buffs, there’s “Amherstburg’s Gone Crazy Car Show” on July 28 on streets spread out around downtown.

Vehicles on display include muscle cars, custom street machines, street/rat rods and more. Food/refreshments are available for purchase and entertainment from Bigg Wiggle will keep the party hopping. (See the schedule of events at: AmherstburgsGoneCarCrazyShow.com).

“It’s become one of the town’s signature events over the past 14 years,” says Eleanor Renaud, one of the event’s original founders. “We have people bringing their cars from across Ontario and also

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

A cannon, a focal point of Navy Yard Park, stands guard along the Detroit Riverfront where vendors at the “Art

By The River” festival set up to welcome thousands of visitors every year. Photo courtesy of The Gibson Gallery.

Michigan. It’s also a family event for people who want to shop, visit our restaurants and also look at the great cars.”

If you’re up for a mental challenge, try the “Fort Malden Escape Room and Games Festival” on Saturday August 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 100 Laird Avenue.

In addition to a variety of mobile escape rooms, the festival features sumo wrestling and jousting along with a host of new games.

You can even battle against your friends in a sumo match! The cost is $34.30 for the escape challenge and $9.80 for the festival alone. There’s also food, refreshment and live music. The event is weather dependent so before heading out, check: Facebook.com/FortMaldenNHS. Next travel back to the past at

the Amherstburg Freedom Museum (277 King Street; AmherstburgFreedom.org) to experience the local history of the Underground Railroad.

And the Gibson Gallery, 140 Richmond Street, is marking its 50th anniversary this year when it opened in the historic Michigan Central Railroad Station. While the actual 50th celebration took place in June, there are still many events planned for the remainder of the summer including the gallery’s signature “Art By The River” show on the grounds of Fort Malden August 24&25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

“It’s remarkable that we have been able to sustain the gallery as a vital part of our community, despite not receiving any funding from the two, or any level of government,” says Bonnie Deslippe, the gallery’s Office Administrator and Chairperson for the “Art By The River” exhibitors. “‘Art By The River’ is our major fundraiser and the rest essentially comes from membership dues and donations, but we couldn’t do any of it without a dedicated cast of volunteers.”

This year’s event features more than 160 exhibitors and vendors, as well as entertainment and food from both booths and some local food trucks.

Gibson Gallery is a registered non-profit

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organization and the public may visit free of charge. To commemorate its anniversary, the gallery is open for extended hours in July and August.

For further details on the gallery, upcoming exhibits and “Art By The River,” log on to: GibsonArtGallery.com.

Situated right downtown in the ‘burg, our picks include Artisan Grill, 269 Dalhousie Street; fine Italian dining at Riccardo’s Italian Restaurant, 238 Dalhousie Street and the Lord Amherst Public House & Wine Lounge, which features British pub food and an imported beer selection, at 273 Dalhousie.

Or you can take a brief trip across the water and pay a visit to the Bob-Lo Beach House Restaurant on Bob-Lo Island Boulevard.

On the way home, if the family is with you, check out The Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road for laser tag, bowling, arcade games and some great grub!

Couples or a group of friends may also want to swing by Wolfhead Distillery, 7781 Howard Avenue for a craft beer and a fine selection of whisky and vodka for the perfect complement to an eclectic menu.

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

Top off all the fun with an ice cream cone or sundae at Waterfront Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt, 229 Dalhousie Street (across from the Navy Yard Park).

This Biz X award winning business is now open for its 40th season and features over 50 flavours of hand-scooped ice cream, soft serves, frozen yogurts, shakes and more!

DESTINATION: LEAMINGTON/RUTHVEN Markets and festivals are also a big part of summer in Leamington.

If you’re a fan of barbecued ribs then you won’t want to miss the “Leamington Ribfest” in Seacliff Park (Seacliff Drive West and Forest Avenue) July 19 to 21, for mouth-watering ribs, craft beverages, local vendors and entertainment.

There’s also the “Music On The 42” Summer Concert Series (July 13, July 27, August 10 and August 17) where you can dance the night away at the amphitheatre on the beachfront. Free admission!

See the lineup of entertainment and start times on the website: Summer.OnThe42. com/music-onthe42-summer-concert-series.

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And they’re off! Take in some live harness racing every Sunday from August to October at the Leamington Raceway.

Post time for all races is 1:30 p.m. and admission is always free. Photo courtesy of Lynette Bain.

And elsewhere in Leamington, the “Mill Street Markets,” a series of night markets running through the year, including August 9 at 4 p.m., take place at 111 Erie Street North. The markets feature a variety of street food, craft drinks and food, clothing vendors, handcrafted gifts from local artisans and entertainment produced by The Bank Theatre.

On September 14, visitors and residents alike can help celebrate “Mexican Independence Day” with

B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

“Noche Mexicana” in Seacliff Park beginning at 4 p.m. Organized by the Mexican Consulate it features dancing, music and food. (See event updates on: Facebook.com/ConsulMexLeamington).

If you are ready for all these Leamington adventures mentioned and want to know a few more fun things to do, refer to the site: OnThe42.com for the full event calendar.

In addition, a major town attraction, the Leamington Raceway opens for its sixth season on August 4 and runs every Sunday

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

‘Tis the season of festivals on the 42nd parallel, on the shores of Lake Erie — Leamington, the southernmost point of mainland Canada. During the “Music On The 42” Summer Concert Series, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and free entertainment at Seacliff Park Amphitheatre.

Kicking off the concert series in late June was Tracey Bell (inset) performing as Lady Gaga. Photo courtesy of the Municipality of Leamington.

until October 27. The racetrack is located at the Leamington Fairgrounds, 194 Erie Street North (Hwy #77).

“It’s a fun afternoon for the whole family,” says General Manager of the Lakeshore Horse Racing Association, Wayne Martinuik. “Crowds have been growing, and last year we had about 800 people for each race day.”

There are 10 races on each card and drivers are mostly local with a few from across southwestern Ontario, including London and Woodstock.

This year, “Family Day” falls on September 4. Last year, the raceway gave

away 35 bikes and much the same is planned. For more information on special events at the track, go to the website: LakeshoreHorseRaceway.com.

And, as the summer winds down, there’s the annual “Ruthven Apple Festival” at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens (550 Road 3 East, Kingsville) on September 28&29.

The free event includes rides, games for children, a car show, a craft and vendor market, as well as a farmers’ market.

Proceeds from the festival benefit Community Living Essex County in support of people with an intellectual disability and their families. For information see: CommunityLivingEssex.org.

is important to support local businesses.”

Other choices include Annabelle’s Tea Room and Restaurant, 76 Main Street East; Birdie’s Perch (a unique double-decker bus dining and take-away experience), 625 Point Pelee Drive; Freddy’s Cocktail Lounge & Restaurant, 655 Point Pelee Drive and Paula’s Fish Place, 857 Point Pelee Drive.

For dessert (at anytime of the day!), check out Burgess Refreshments on the water at 403 Erie Street South and/or Sweet Retreat Ice Cream and More, 7 Nelson Street.

DESTINATION: PELEE ISLAND You won’t be disappointed by the restaurant and café choices available in Leamington They include Lakeside Bakery Deli Café, which features fresh breads and pastries, as well as assorted paninis, sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads in the adjacent Wine Bar at 286 Erie Street South.

“We serve local wines and local beer in our Wine Bar and we source virtually all our produce from local growers and greenhouses,” says Manager Danielle Tartaro. “We pride ourselves on our farmto-table philosophy because we believe it

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Two signature events in August bring hundreds of people to the island over and above the regular summertime visitors by ferry, after a brief boat ride from either Kingsville or Leamington on the mainland.

The sixth annual “Island Unplugged Music Festival” at 1362 East Shore Road takes place August 2&3 followed by the ninth annual “Southernmost Canada Chili Cookoff” August 17 on the grounds of Pelee Island Winery, just steps away from the dock.

“Both have become popular events

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY • “We have donated quite a bit of money over the years and people really support it,” Anger mentions.

This year’s edition, themed “Diamonds and Denim,” runs August 29 to September 1 and features sheep, cattle and horse judging, a horse show, rooster crowing contest, a midway, lawn tractor races and a Teddy Bear parade along with food and live entertainment.

The fair is located at 134 McAffee Street and admission is $10 adults with children 12 and under free to attend. For a complete schedule, a list of contests and photo gallery visit: HarrowFair.com.

The Kerouacs are shown performing at a past “Island Unplugged Music Festival” on Pelee Island. Photo courtesy of Charlie O’Brien.

with both islanders and visitors,” says Kim Gardner of the island’s Heritage Centre.

“They both draw hundreds of people and it’s a really nice way to spend time on the island.”

The music festival starts at 6 p.m. on Friday and features a pig roast and it continues on Saturday from noon until the late evening, with food provided by Stone House 1891 Craft Bar And Kitchen.

This year’s entertainment lineup includes Daniel Romano, Kaia Kater, Suzie Vinnick Band, Lydia Persaud, Old Man Grant, The Drinkard Sisters and Years of Ernest. For a full lineup, visit: TheIslandUnplugged.org.

The August 17 chili cookoff, a fundraiser for the Heritage Centre, starts with cooking at 11 a.m., a tasting at 2 p.m. and announcements of the winner by 4 p.m. There are generally 11 teams involved in the contest, including a couple of restaurants, and the event draws about 350 people, since it coincides with the arrival of one of the daily ferries.

Ferry schedules, with ships leaving from either Leamington or Kingsville, can be found at: OntarioFerries.com. And for those seeking to stay overnight on the island or looking for more summertime events, check out: Pelee.org.

For a casual meal before heading back to one of the island’s bed and breakfast spots or the ferry for a leisurely trip home, there are a number of choices around the picturesque island.

They include the Anchor and Wheel Inn, 11 West Shore Road; The Bakery, 5 North Shore Road; Stone House 1891, 1115 West Shore Road; Westview Tavern, 1075 West Shore Road, and Scudder Beach Bar and Grill, 325 North Shore Road.

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For a frozen treat, head on down to Pelee Island Coneheads, 1043 West Shore Road.

DESTINATION: HARROW/COLCHESTER/COTTAM The “Harrow Fair,” now in its 165th year, has become one of the most popular events for families across Essex County and southwestern Ontario.

“It’s been popular all these years because we have kept focused on its agricultural roots,” says Brenda Anger, President of the fair board. “And kids just love climbing all over the big machines, so that’s very popular as well.”

Anger adds that the annual pie auction, which raised $21,000 last year, is a big hit every year. All the proceeds from the auction go to the John McGivney Children’s Centre in memory of Joanne and Brad Stannard who started the auction as a fundraiser a few years ago.

A midway with rides and carnival games is always a popular feature of the annual “Harrow Fair.” The 165th edition of the fair, taking place August 29 to September 1 this year, also features animal judging contests, food, and entertainment for all ages. Photo courtesy of the “Harrow Fair.”

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Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos, right, poses with a visitor at a past “Harrow Fair” following a pie auction, which raises money for the John McGivney Children’s Centre. Photo courtesy of the “Harrow Fair.”

Another event which has grown in popularity in recent years is “Explore the Shore” on July 27&28. Visitors to the area are invited to take a leisurely drive along County Road 50 and visit participating wineries, restaurants, stores and other local businesses. (Further details at: ExploreTheShore.ca.

If you’re a fan of fresh Lake Erie perch, mark August 17 on your calendar when Viewpointe Estate Winery, 151 County Road 50 East, hosts “Perch-a-Palooza 2019.” This event features fresh perch (no surprise there LOL!), beverages and live music on the lakeside lawn and patio. See: ViewpointeWinery.com/upcoming-events to learn more.

If you are looking to put the perfect finishing touches on your day trip to Harrow with a fresh seafood and pasta lunch or

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

There are plenty of sweet treats to be found at Danielle’s Restaurant and Ice Cream, 357 Queen Street and Here’s The Scoop Ice Cream Parlour, 175 King Street West (inside Priscilla’s Presents).

DESTINATION: ESSEX The town’s next main summer event (since the “Essex Fun Fest” happened at the beginning of July) is the “Lost Arts Festival” organized by the Essex Region Conservation

Authority (ERCA) on the grounds of John R. Park Homestead, 915 Essex County Road 50, Essex, on August 11 from noon until 4 p.m.

It features 19th century re-enactments and demonstrations of lost arts, including broom making, canoe paddle carving, glass blowing, metal smithing, box camera picture taking, and pioneer games and crafts for children.

“It’s a chance to showcase handmade items from pioneer times,” says Danielle BreaultStuebing, Director of Communications and Education for ERCA. “Interest in such items and skills is coming back as people are searching for something simpler that you can experience first-hand.”

She continues by mentioning, “The festival has been growing in popularity in recent years and it’s a fascinating chance to look back in time and see craftspeople at work.”

The Conservation area’s website: EssexRegionConservation.ca/educationand-events/lost-arts-festival can fill you in on admission costs and all activities planned for the day.

Breault-Stuebing also points out that under ERCA’s mission, “The Place for Life,” this is a place with healthy rivers and streams, beaches you can swim in and lakes you can fish in. Greenways and trails connect you to

A volunteer teaches a guest the art of candle-making at last year’s “Lost Arts Festival” at the John R. Park Homestead in Essex. Photo courtesy of the Essex Region Conservation Authority.

your landscape and to each other. And using the trails, which connect one end of Essex County to the other, is a great way to create some family fun.

“You can cover up to 80 kilometres by bike now and it’s a great way for the entire family to see the county up close,” she says.

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dinner, there would be no better place to pop into than the Calabria Coastal Bistro.

Situated at 123 County Road 34 in Cottam, choices include lobster poutine, seafood linguine and steaks.

Also close by is Bistro 42 on the grounds of North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, where a second-floor patio affords sweeping views of the vineyard at 130 County Road 50 East in Colchester.

And if you’re craving treats with a British flair to bring home, take a look at the offerings of pies, cakes, candies and biscuits at Blimeys British Store & Gift Shop, 25 King Street West in Harrow.

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Kingsville.ca • Festivals & Events B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

When it is time to chill and relax, the dining options are plentiful in Essex, from casual pizza joints and bakeries to small pubs and cafes.

They include Brenko’s House of Pizza, which also has a patio for those warm summer afternoons and evenings, at 19 Laird Avenue North; Olde School Deli and Café, 186 Talbot Street South; The Little House of Cupcakes and More for cream puffs, jumbo cookies, scones etc. at 108 Talbot Street North, and Billy’s Taphouse at 305 Talbot Street North.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Ice Cool Treats, 65 Talbot Street South.

DESTINATION: LAKESHORE/ BELLE RIVER/COMBER One of the major summer events in Lakeshore is the 160th annual “Comber Fair” at the Comber Community Centre, 7001 Isabella Street from August 9 to 11.

The fair features poultry judging, a car show, antique farm equipment displays, a demolition derby, pickup truck tug-ofwar, “Miss Comber Fair” competition, as well as baby and singing contests.

Entertainment includes Jody Raffoul, the Jen Knight Band and Ty Baynton.

Admission to the fair is $7 for a day pass, a weekend pass is $15 and kids 12 and under can attend at no charge. Find more information on: ComberFair.on.ca.

For anyone who wants to try their hand at fishing in Lake St. Clair, there are six fishing cabins to rent on the Belle River Yacht Club property at 193 West River Road.

“It’s a pretty popular spot, particularly among our American clientele,” says

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Owner Terry Murray. “The cabins sleep three to four people and they’re all recently renovated.”

Included on the property is on-site parking, a dock and boat ramp, a barbecue area and an outdoor sitting area with picnic tables. For more information, see: BelleRiverYachtClub.com.

Another choice for outdoor relaxation is camping under the stars at St. Clair Shores Campground, 2358 St. Clair Road in Stoney Point (CampingInOntario.ca/ StClairShoresCampground).

Spending the day swimming, fishing or kayaking is always guaranteed to be fun as is learning a little history!

Why not check out the John Freeman Walls Historic Site and the Underground Railroad Museum at 859 Puce Road in Emeryville? The 20-acre historical site honours those who fought against slavery and came to Canada for freedom. (see:UndergroundRailroadMuseum.org)

When the afternoon begins to wind down and you need to satisfy those hunger pangs, the choices are abundant, from waterfront dining (with a breakfast buffet now served every Sunday) at the Sandbar Waterfront Grill (a multiple Biz X Award winner), 930 Old Tecumseh Road in Puce; to casual pub food at Twiggs Bar & Grill, 1207 Essex County Road 22, Emeryville or Mr. Biggs Restaurant & Sports Bar, 405 Notre Dame Street in Belle River.

There’s also Parkside Grille (another Biz X Award winner) on the grounds of Rochester Place Golf Club at 981 County Road 2.

And since “You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream,” a great choice is A&J Snack Shack at 120 West River Road.

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DESTINATION: TECUMSEH

The major event every summer here is the annual “Tecumseh Corn Festival” at Lacasse Park, 500 Lacasse Boulevard, taking place this year August 23 to 25.

The 2019 entertainment schedule includes Jody Raffoul, Max Marshall, Christee Palace, the Bishop Boys, Phil Kane, Motor City Manouche, Fred Penner, and an Elvis tribute artist.

A smiling Maya Fuerth enjoys fresh, hot buttered corn on the cob at the annual “Tecumseh Corn Festival.”

Photo courtesy of David Fuerth.

“We’re very excited about our entertainment lineup and the fact we have Fred Penner performing on ‘Family Day’ is a huge highlight,” says Kerri Rice, Manager of Recreation Programs/Events for the Town of Tecumseh.

Friday is “Senior’s Day” with free

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY • admission for seniors, Saturday is “Family Day” with the annual parade and family entertainment, while Sunday is devoted to a Classic Car Show, organized by Muscle Cars and Classics and the annual “Miss Tecumseh” Pageant along with golden oldies music entertainment.

“It’s our 44th year and what has sustained it is mostly tradition,” adds Rice. “Generation after generation has supported the show and the whole town embraces it.”

For a full lineup and more details view the town website: Tecumseh.ca.

Taking place before the “Tecumseh Corn Festival” on Friday July 19, the Tecumseh Business Improvement Area association is staging a night market featuring dozens of stores, restaurants and gift shops at the Tecumseh Towne Centre at 1614 Lesperance Road.

Entertainment for the evening to be provided by Weekend with Suzie.

It runs from 5 to 10 p.m. and includes such businesses as Ocean Bottom Soap Company, Shoe Box, Tecumseh Pizzeria, Hearing Life, Ani & Fabi, Auntie Aldo’s Pies and Pastries, Amalfi Fine Foods, Dyan’s Garlic Sauce, Emma’s Garlic Sauce as well as many others.

For a complete list of Night Market

vendors, refer to their website page: TecumsehBia.com/tecumseh-night-markets.

If you’re still hungry after chowing down on corn on the cob at the “Cornfest” or picking up gifts and produce at July’s night market, there are a number of restaurant choices ready and waiting to serve you.

They include Tabouli by Eddy’s, which specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, and Italian fine dining at La Rucola Ristorante, both in the Tecumseh Towne Centre plaza at 1614 Lesperance Road; The Broken Egg & Tap, a breakfast/lunch spot and open for dinner certain evenings, 12058 Tecumseh Road East; Biz X Award winner Johnny Shotz Roadhouse, 13037 Tecumseh Road East and Fratelli Pasta Grill, which features Italian cuisine, at 13340 Lanoue Street.

For frosty treat, try Slinky’s Ice Cream and Yogurt, 100 Lesperance Road or Lux Sweets and Treats, 33 Amy Croft Drive.

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DESTINATION: LASALLE Taking place for the first time this year, the “Rendez-Vous Voyageur” Festival in LaSalle allows residents and visitors alike to step back in history to the 1600/1700s and commemorate the history of the local natives and French explorers including Rene-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, who helped establish early trading routes throughout the region.

“The history of this area has generally focused on the time around 1812 and the British involvement, but this festival takes people back to an earlier era and gives them a look at the living history of the period,” says Julie Columbus, Director of Culture and Recreation for the town.

Columbus adds, “We’ve partnered with Walpole Island to provide traditional and authentic cuisine and we’re expecting a great deal of interest.”

The event, held September 20&21 in Gil Maure Park at 1180 Front Road, includes authentic period entertainment, colourful re-enactments, interactive displays, Voyageur encampments, lacrosse demos, traditional cuisine, unique vendors and merchants and pyro musical fireworks.

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

(Canoe: iStockPhoto.com/NajaShots)

Also, visit the G.O.A.T. Tap and Eatery, 5841 Malden Road or nearby Joe Schmoe’s Eats n Drinks, 5881 Malden Road.

And for dessert we’re pretty sure even the ice cream man chooses Sunset Ice Cream & Gifts, 2211 Front Road!

GET READY TO RIDE OFF IN ALL DIRECTIONS It provides an authentic experience of life along the Detroit River where early French settlers lived alongside Anishinaabe natives and Metis.

The town is also staging outdoor night markets July 28 and August 25 at the Civic Centre, 5950 Malden Road.

The markets feature local artisans, farmto-table produce, food vendors, live music and children’s activities.

Read more information on all town events on their website: LaSalle.ca.

Plenty of re-enactments will happen at the two day “Rendez-Vous Voyageur” Festival to help you experience the rich history of LaSalle and what life was like over 400 years ago. Photos courtesy of The Town of LaSalle. (Family: iStockPhoto.com/KSchulze)

Once you’ve loaded up on produce and fruits from one of the town’s night markets,

it might be to time to refuel your tummy.

Handy choices include Biz X Award winners LA Town Grill, 5975 Malden Road and Brews & Cues, 5663 Ojibway Parkway.

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Well there’s the “scoop” (and not just a scoop of great ice cream stops!) on what there is to do in the region this summer.

It’s clear that Essex County has something for the entire family and it’s all within a few miles of home and a tank of gas.

On hot sunny days and during cool late-summer evenings, take advantage of music, food and festivals and enjoy the summer across our region before crisp fall days take over.

For more information on summer events across Essex County (and in the city of Windsor too), check out the TWEPI website: VisitWindsorEssex.com.

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOR THOUGHT

THE WRECK At Colchester Harbour, 220 Jackson Street, Colchester, ON

By David Clark

Photos courtesy of the restaurant

Y

ou’ve been invited to come aboard and sail to food heaven at the site of THE WRECK at Colchester Harbour, conveniently located on Lake Erie in the Colchester Park and Harbour area.

A family restaurant, THE WRECK may have just opened on May 17, 2019 but, CoOwners/Operators, Stephen and MaryAnne Bjorkman have already noticed the growing popularity of the restaurant.

“What sets THE WRECK apart from other restaurants is the proximity to the lake,” believes Stephen. “You can literally see it from every table in the restaurant.”

The menu offers a lot of choices and the service is excellent, but according to Stephen, “We have the casual lake view dining that keeps them coming back.”

The couple has an extensive background in the food industry going back 30 plus years including restaurant management leading to ownership.

Concerning the history of the location,

The Cross Rib Steak, 10 oz of AAA beef, comes equipped with homemade Mac n’ Cheese, coleslaw and tasty grilled vegetable spears.

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THE WRECK is always decked out to the nines! With decks out front and on top, customers have great vantage points for looking out over the lake while they dine.

“Our restaurant name is based on the shipwrecks that are scattered outside Colchester Harbour,” informs Stephen.

And THE WRECK wants to build on some of the nautical history of the area.

“It’s been decorated with a beach theme and lots of colours that facilitate a feeling of fun and happiness,” explains Stephen about the atmosphere. “We have views of the lake and Colchester Park from all vantage points in the main dining room areas and a panoramic view from our second-floor deck.”

For a great introduction to the fare at THE WRECK — a place for a seafood feast — you can toss a line and catch the very popular Perch Dinner.

As well, the “Taste of THE WRECK” is in the net waiting for you, including Perch, Pickerel and Haddock Bites served with your choice of four sides.

Another popular seafood selection is the fun

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and recently caught Fish Tacos with haddock on a mini cheesy nacho (photo at right) with the Chicken Taco dish just as fast too!

And Friday is “Fish & Chips Day,” featuring the favourite Beer Battered Haddock special.

For those asking “where’s the beef?” the restaurant also serves a Cross Rib Steak dinner (photo at left) and plenty of stacked 6 oz. prime rib char-grilled burgers guaranteed to make your mouth water.

Just to mention a few, the Swine Burger is their house burger with bacon and your choice of cheese to top it off. For that exotic taste, you may lean towards the Aloha Burger with that zesty teriyaki spiced sauce smothered all over it and a full slice of pineapple. And claiming to be the best vegan burger around is The Beyond Meat Burger.

You can also expect a favourite sandwich like the Reuben to be a house specialty with that stacked corned beef, sauerkraut

and Swiss, but the Pulled Pork is a good choice too if you require an appetite pleaser with its slow-roasted, smoked pork with BBQ sauce.

Other traditional restaurant fare includes the 14” wood oven crust pizza and the gluten-free 10” pizza crust options.

Two great choices are the fully loaded Deluxe and the Canadian with lots of bacon — both the owners feel these are prize-winners in the pizza category.

Need more customers?

Advertise in Biz X Magazine and watch your tables fill up!

A real treat from the sea, the Tempura Battered Haddock Fish Tacos fit nicely into a mini cheesy nacho with veggies for a real taste explosion.

In moderation most of the menu items are good for you, but in particular, the Asian Wrap with tofu or chicken and the Summer Salad with berries and more are fresh alternatives for the health-conscious individual.

The “Cast Off” choices (or starters) include Thai Chicken, Cilantro Pesto Bruschetta, Deep Fried Pickles and an assortment of flat breads and even more to get the appetites of any hungry diners underway before the main course.

Regarding future menu additions, THE WRECK will always be changing up items to reflect the tastes of patrons. It is also important to note that a lot of the food products served are locally sourced, particularly the fish and produce.

Another added bonus for their customers is live entertainment, featured on Sundays, and provided by local musicians such as Lady J’ai Mac. Who doesn’t love sitting outside by the waterfront, listening to some of your favourite songs while enjoying some great food and drink?

“Our goal is to offer a unique dining experience here in Essex County and encourage that sense of fun and joy that comes with a day at the beach,” exclaims Stephen. “Of course, we also believe we serve the best perch and pickerel in southwestern Ontario!”

For more information, including hours and the latest happenings at this new county restaurant, look on Facebook under “THE WRECK at Colchester Harbour.”

Call 519-977-2199 or email deborah@bizxmagazine.com to book your spot in our next issue!

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

TECH BY TES

Sparking Tourism Innovation In Windsor Essex

By Justin Lafontaine

The way we plan, purchase and experience travel is increasingly driven using technology — now more than ever.

It’s how we make decisions based on online reviews, suggested content, and social influencers, how we book accommodations, transport and tours, how we share with selfies of famous landmarks and “Instagram-friendly” hotspots, how we translate menus or signs and communicate with people in other languages, and so on.

Tech start-ups have shaken up every segment of the tourism industry — the big ones include Airbnb (accommodations) and Uber (mobility) — let alone the myriad of travel apps that have been launched to provide travellers with curated information, recommendations, and local deals.

With all this screen time, some might feel we are losing the personal connections that many of us seek through travel.

In some cases that’s true. We can easily book, check in and out of our hotel, without meeting a front desk manager or property host. Heck,

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we can practically “travel” to places around the world without leaving our home Wifi range.

However, technology has also unleashed a vast array of platforms that actually enable more personal and personalized travel.

Travellers, especially Millennials, increasingly seek out and value experiences that are authentic, unique, led by locals, small-scale, enlightening, and interactive.

Innovation is critical to the competitiveness and growth in every industry; tourism being no exception. While scaled-up innovations can eventually displace leading organizations or business models, new tourism products, services, experiences and infrastructure at every level are constantly necessary to build upon and refresh a destination’s offerings, profile and appeal.

Windsor Essex is on the forefront of tourism innovation in Ontario. With our diverse products and people, City and County, history and culture, culinary and craft, motorized and pedal-powered, local and international, the

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region proved to be an ideal testing ground for a new incubator called the Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab. Launched in 2018, the Lab and its “Spark” Mentorships and Grants Program encouraged individuals, small businesses and non-profits to bring forward their new tourism ideas for the region.

After an applications review and finalists’ “Pitch Session,” the top three were each awarded $3,000 and matched with a tourism mentor to help take their ideas to the next level of development.

While not all of the submissions were techfocused, technology was a critical element and consideration in their evolution, planning, delivery and potential for success.

If you have a new tourism idea for Windsor Essex, stay tuned to the website: TourismInnovation.ca for information on the next “Spark” round and an upcoming “Tourism + Tech” networking session.

Tech Bytes is powered by WEtech Alliance (Wetech-Alliance.com). The author of their article for this issue is Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab. Justin has been developing innovative and award-winning tourism initiatives across Ontario for over 15 years. Based in Windsor, he collaborates with a diverse array of tourism organizations, businesses and leaders to spark innovation in our region and beyond.

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

TAKE THE LEAD

Looking Back To Lead Forward

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

W

hen I was interviewing Irene Moore Davis I realized that each column felt like a special opportunity to learn fascinating things about respected leaders. Davis is someone I’ve personally admired from afar.

Her path to revered historian, educator, author, artist, community leader and mentor is inspiring and energizing. Davis attributes her leadership skills to generations of role models in her family who paved the way, making significant contributions to our community.

It is often said we cannot understand our future without knowing our past and Davis has made it part of her life’s work to document and bring to life the rich African Canadian story and the rich history of the Black settlements in the Windsor/Detroit area.

Her family has been here since the mid19th century and she is a proud member of generations of renowned path-makers, innovators, entrepreneurs and community leaders such as her hero and great-aunt, Mary Ann Shadd. Shadd was North America’s first Black woman newspaper publisher, right here in Windsor.

Davis believes that “History is not just about facts from our past, it is the lessons we derive from our experiences, and the mistakes and improvements we can make that determines our present and future success and development.”

She further adds, “Young people need to see how we came to be, it is important they see role models they can identify with to inspire them.”

Her advice to youth is to “seek out leadership experiences and learn by observing. Watch how leaders run things and volunteer to gain leadership experience and find your passion.”

Her dedication to mentoring and giving

back is evident by her service as President and Founding Member of the Essex County Black Historical Research Society, Amherstburg Freedom Museum, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. (mentoring programs), Leadership Windsor/Essex, “BookFest Windsor” and “Sister to Sister: Women Inspiring Success and Excellence.”

She was also a long-time member of the group, Executive Women International Detroit (scholarships for low income women), and is involved in Women Inspiring Action, a Windsor organization that raises other women up.

Davis, a university graduate of Queen’s (M.A.), Western (B.Ed) and Windsor (B.A.) is involved with the African-Canadian Roads To Freedom Project, which helps schools integrate African-Canadian into the history/social science curriculum.

She provides leadership to the Continuing Education Department, as well as the English language program, at St. Clair College.

“I am inspired daily,” Davis states.

“I witness challenges and barriers our students face, supporting their families while improving their lives.”

She was involved in the Underground Railroad Monument Committee responsible for the Tower of Freedom Monument in Windsor. With two other women, she hosts a literary podcast, “All Write in Sin City.”

Davis has greatly contributed to recording the history of Windsor Essex, and her work on Canadian Black settlements is included in “Fluid Frontier: Slavery, Resistance, And The Underground Railroad In The Detroit River Borderland.”

She has also penned “The Long Road Continues to Our Own Two Hands: A History

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Irene Moore Davis (right) poses with Biz X Columnist Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh during an interview at The Squirrel Cage, downtown Windsor in June 2019.

of Black Lives in Windsor” (coming out this year) a continuation of Charlotte Bronte Perry’s book about African Canadians in Essex County, which includes the Caribbean population and immigrants from Africa.

Davis collects books for the South West Regional Detention Centre Library stressing “It’s never to late to free one’s mind.”

She has been recognized for her work with the University of Windsor History Department Community Heritage Medal and Leadership Windsor/Essex “Alumni of Distinction.”

Her favourite quotes to always remember, reflect her advice to young leaders — “We lift as we climb” and “Service is the rent we pay for existing.”

Both of these are relevant and evident in her life of selfless service. I really think that someone should be writing a book about her.

Hmmm . . . author is still on my bucket list.

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is an award winning leadership consultant and former Director of Leadership Windsor/Essex, Principal, Chief Communications Officer and business owner with over 30 years of experience in education, administration, mentoring, consulting and community leadership. If you know a leader in the community to profile here in this column, please email her at: Sherrilynn@BizXmagazine.com.

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY • BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

That’s The Beauty Of Wood

By Dave Halliday

O

kay, look around you. How many pieces of furniture, trim, cabinetry, etc. do you see that are printed with a phoney wood grain on what is most likely a manufactured pressboard? Why do we go to such lengths to provide the appearance of wood grain on all of these items?

The beautiful look of items comprised of natural wood is undeniable. The many different species of trees allows for variation in textures, colours, and feel. It’s difficult to recreate or improve upon the natural beauty of wood, which is one of the reasons why our expert’s take on things for this article makes it all the more original and inspired. Plus he runs an Essex County business — perfect for this special edition of Biz X! Meet Craig Forget, Owner and Maker at CARPENTER CRAIG.INC, one of those unique individuals who sees things a little differently when it comes to the appeal of wood.

During Forget’s 24 years in the finish carpentry industry and nine years in the artworld side of things, he has developed the ability to see the possibilities and beauty in wood materials that others may have deemed as expendable.

Forget has an appointment only showroom located at 948 Lakeshore Road 107 in Essex, with more information on: CraigForget.com about his work and photos of his collections.

This local Reclaimed Wood Artist has been shipping his products all over the world for many years and now it’s time Essex County residents learn more about him!

What is it that you do? “I offer reclaimed wood wall art, including large and small pieces for residential homes, businesses and hospitality spaces,” indicates Forget.

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Reclaimed Wood Artist Craig Forget shows off one of his favourite pieces, “Chicago Cityscape,” created as a company sign for a customer in Chicago.

Photo courtesy of the artist.

“I also do a lot of custom pieces based on the customer’s desires and custom company logos and signs made entirely out of wood or a combination of wood and metal, depending on the intended space.”

What drew you to working with existing and reclaimed materials for your work?

“Working with reclaimed wood materials is very environmentally friendly; and because I have such a passion for the outdoors and nature, I try to reuse things that people do not find any value in,” states Forget. “What I like most about reclaimed wood is the character and colours that it portrays when it has been aged and weathered for so many years; it is something that cannot be replicated.”

How do you find the materials you incorporate into your pieces? “Most of the wood I get is from local barns, homes, old fences and other discarded wood,” he informs us. “I work with a lot of local people that take down old buildings for a living.

Over the years, I have established a lot of connections for reclaimed wood materials.”

How old are some of the materials you

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incorporate into your work? “The wood I use ranges from five to 140 years in age,” replies Forget. “I believe there is great historical significance in a lot of the wood I use. I am sharing a little bit of Windsor and Essex County history with each piece of art that I create.”

How does your work benefit from the reclaimed materials you use? “My work benefits greatly from the varying textures and character that old reclaimed wood has to offer” he comments. “It makes each piece original and one of a kind that is not easily replicated and Mother Nature does a great job in creating such a broad palette for me to work with.”

Do you incorporate materials other than wood? Forget points out: “I also use metal in my pieces that I design and have laser cut from a local business.”

What factors are involved as you begin to conceive one of your creations? “The primary factor is always — what type of emotion or character do I want my piece to possess?” he replies. “Do I want the piece to be calming or lively? Do I want the piece to be reminiscent of a place or object?”

He continues by stating, “There are also abstract ideas like my light wavelength piece that looks different depending on lighting and angle.”

It truly is inspiring to think Forget’s work is not only creative and beautiful, but it assists in ensuring that used materials are not just automatically dumped in the landfill.

Hanging a piece of his work in your office or home allows you to possess a piece of local history that is fashioned into an original art work and conversation piece, while also being environmentally responsible.

• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

“High-End Thrift” In Leamington

By Joe McParland

D

uring one of your summertime journeys to experience the treasures Essex County has to offer, and for some unique shopping, be sure to stop by the Thrift on Mill store at 58 Mill Street West in Leamington.

The shop opened its present location in February 2016. Since 1982, they were previously known as the Et Cetera Shoppe and operated from two Leamington locations under the direction of the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).

They now join a network of six other MCC Thrift Stores throughout the province.

From family books, toys, clothing and games, to furniture, sporting goods and jewellery, the Thrift On Mill staff is ready to help customers find the best items for an affordable price. From left: Production Manager Cindy Lasi; volunteers Margo Carder and Susan Epp; General Manager Randy Lepp; Production Assistant Nancy Dick and volunteer Abe Epp. Photo courtesy of the Thrift on Mill.

What is the MCC you ask?

According to the Thrift on Mill website: “Since 1920, the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) has lived by our mission to impact disadvantaged people through our work in relief, development and peace. Locally, in Ontario, we work with refugee resettlement, people in poverty, indigenous and Low German communities and restorative justice. From our Kitchener warehouse, we ship material aid like health and relief kits overseas to places like Syria, Jordan and Lebanon.”

Cindy Lasi is the Production Manager of the local Thrift on Mill.

It is a second career for this former nurse who says she chose to get involved with the store as a logical extension “of doing something where I can continue

contributing to the community.”

Lasi is quick to point out this isn’t your average thrift store and has coined the expression “high-end thrift.”

She proudly smiles when first time shoppers’ comment they cannot believe they’re in a thrift store.

Lasi mentions they feel this way because of “our strict and high standards; everything about the store is bright, clean, organized and inviting,” adding “why should someone on a budget have to shop in a store that might be dirty, dingy and have an odour? That’s not going to help them feel better about themselves — where they’re shopping.”

Lasi also dispels the notion that people should not feel guilty about shopping in a place where people of more limited means and budgets would better benefit from shopping.

She stresses, “Thrift on Mill is for everyone — all demographics — no one is excluded.”

The gently-used items they resell is quality merchandise that has been inspected and repaired, if necessary, by volunteer electricians, seamstresses, clock and watch makers, jewellers, and other qualified trades people.

Perhaps the most endearing aspect of the Thrift on Mill is its many diverse volunteers ranging from the very young, to elders in the community in their 70s and 80s. They are the heart and soul of the Thrift on Mill.

One particular elder, in her mid-80s, a lovely lady named Bertha (last name withheld), proudly creates kitchen aprons and reusable handbags for sale.

And there’s a group of Mennonite women who can be observed through a large glass window in a room adjacent to the retail shop, Comfort Knotting.

Since 1982 they have been knotting blankets for shipment to those in need in northern Ontario, as well as far off places like Mozambique, Jordan, Syria and India.

Be sure to visit the Thrift on Mill, right near the iconic Leamington Tomato.

For more information regarding merchandise, donations, volunteering, location and hours of operation, be sure to visit their website: ThriftOnMill.ca.

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN

By Chelsea Humphreys

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ANISSA NOAKES

In The Market For Handmade Local Artists

A

s a self-proclaimed catalyst for the handmade community, Anissa Noakes is providing artists and consumers a place to shop and support local.

Noakes is the owner of Urban Art Market, an upscale boutique where local artists and artisans can display and sell their work. She has two locations — the first opened in January of 2016 at 548 Chilver Road in Windsor and the second just recently opened in March of 2019 at 19 Chestnut Street in Kingsville.

“Everything carried in store is specialty handcrafted and created by local artists who bring an incredible array of goods to the people of Windsor and Essex County,” explains Noakes.

“The Windsor store is made up of artists from mostly Windsor and the new Kingsville location is made up of Essex County artists.”

If a customer is looking for something specific, Noakes informs Biz X that most of their artists are open to custom orders. The two stores carry a range of products from pottery, specialty teas, and women’s accessories to pet treats and baby gifts. Customers can even enjoy a cup of coffee at the Kingsville location, thanks to its partnership with local roaster, Red Lantern Coffee.

“The coffee shop gives the community a place to get to know a local coffee roaster and space to socialize. And along with the market, we provide an opportunity for artists and customers to meet and interact on a daily basis.”

The space also gives artists a chance to meet, collaborate and inspire each other. With so many artists sharing these two spaces, it helps grow their network of clients and boost business.

The Kingsville store is made up of over 20 artists, including Tagged It Paper Co., Ani & Fabi and Northshore Quilting Co.

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Anissa Noakes, Owner of the Urban Art Market, is surrounded by handmade goods created by local makers and artisans. With over 50 vendors featured between its two locations, Walkerville and now Kingsville, there are plenty of unique gifts to purchase for everyone. Photo by Rod Denis.

The Windsor location has 30 plus artists.

“Each unique artist has their own best sellers,” states Noakes, citing popular items such as wall hangings, reusable shopping bags and Beeswax wraps, pottery, and tea towels.

Noakes worked in forestry and mining for 15 years in British Columbia and around the world.

When she came back to Windsor, she found it hard to use that experience and education, so she decided she was at a point in her career where she needed to reinvent herself.

“I had a skill of crocheting, which I used to sell items at art and craft shows to put myself through a Business Marketing Degree, online with Athabasca University,” Noakes comments. “I continued to sell my items on Etsy and at art/craft shows. Many of my customers asked me if I sold my items in any stores. I knew I was not able to fill a whole store myself so the thought of asking many of my makers’ friends if they would want to go in on a store, was sort of the plan.”

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While considering this idea, Noakes married and had a son. Four months later, a space became available in Walkerville and she opened her first location. She started with 15 local businesses and more than doubled that number within the first three to five months.

“Over a few years I met so many great people in the handmade community where they would possibly want to be a part of a store,” she expresses. “It was amazing that these amazing people trusted me and what my vision was. This was a much better career and job for a mom as I can work the hours I need and still be with my kids. I now have two kids under 3½ years old, which keeps me busy.”

We are sure it most certainly does! And Noakes admits balancing home and work isn’t always easy.

“Working from home can be a challenge when you have kiddos at your heels,” says Noakes. “I have supportive friends, family and artists at the store that help when I need it. I definitely cannot do it alone and it’s great to have them in my life.

But, when it’s a slow time, I take time for my family, friends and myself to enjoy life.”

When it comes to giving advice to other women in business, Noakes suggests finding people who do what you can’t do well.

“Surround yourself by good people who get your vision and you can reach out to when you need to,” advises Noakes. “Trust your inner voice, if it doesn’t feel right, it’s not. But, be patient, what you want will come, but you do just have to go for it!”

For more information about these two local art markets, created by Windsor Essex makers and artisans, check out their social media page: Facebook.com/urban-art-market.

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• CELEBRATING ESSEX COUNTY •

EVENT PROFILE

The 11th “Shar’s Ride for MS”

September 15, 2019

Want to tour Essex County by participating in a fun motorcycle ride, stopping at area establishments (designated stops) and raise money for a charity at the same time? Here’s your chance!

“Shar Good created the motorcycle fundraiser ‘Shar’s Ride for MS’ 10 years ago as she not only has MS, but wanted to create awareness of the disease and do something for those in our own backyard who have MS as well,” says Margie Ouellette, who is now the new Event Coordinator.

Good found it necessary to step down as Event Coordinator due to health reasons and has recently moved to Windsor, closer to medical facilities. She remains as Event Consultant during this period of transition.

The mandate of this event is that all funds raised be used locally to help subsidize the purchase of special equipment by those who have MS. Ouellette is “proud to report that in the past 10 years, this event has raised just under $98,000, which has been used for the purchase of special equipment only by our local MS Society of Canada (Windsor-

Essex Chapter) for someone who has MS and is in need of assistance.”

Poker stops include the Sandbar Waterfront Grill, Jose’s Bar & Grill in Leamington, Colchester Bar & Grill and The Moose Lodge.

The family style dinner following the ride takes place back at The Moose Lodge (the starting point as well) at 4:30 p.m.

Plus, there will be fun and games on the agenda too.

This event is open to all riders for $30 and with passengers just $20. If you raise $100 in pledges, the registration fee is waived!

If you or your business are interested in helping out with a donation to the cause, please send Shar an email at: shar.good54@gmail.com as soon as possible with your intention.

The general non-riding public can also help out by purchasing dinner only tickets.

Tickets are just $30 each and when you buy two tickets, you receive a tax receipt for $25!

Biz X and IN PLAY magazine, along with Vision Realty, Families First,

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Shar Good (pictured with her husband Tommy at the ride last year) was diagnosed with MS in 1987 and has been involved with the MS Society since 1991. A passionate advocate of the cause, she created her own motorcycle ride 11 years ago. Let’s help Shar continue what she started and raise even more dollars for her charity in 2019! Photo by Rod Denis.

Steve’s Auto Shine, Seacret, ECMU and Robinson Motorcycle are proud sponsors of the ride, helping to carry on this event in Shar’s name and for those who have MS in our own community.

Registration takes place from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 15 at The Moose Lodge (777 Tecumseh Road West, Windsor) with the ride departing at 11 a.m. Find out more details on their page: Facebook.com/rideforms.

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GUEST COLUMN

Are You Liable When Making Referrals To Another Professional Who May Not Be Qualified, Experienced And Independent?

By Andrea Pontoni A recent decision by the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) made me think about my own practice when referring matters outside my expertise, to other professionals.

The relevant court case involved a lawyer referring his clients to a financial advisor who appeared to have been incompetent and was involved in fraudulent activities. The lawyer himself had a relationship with the financial advisor, which could be construed as a conflict of interest.

The court ruled in favour of the plaintiff (in this case the lawyer’s client). The lawyer making the referral to the financial advisor was held responsible for damages and losses incurred by the plaintiff.

The SCC endorsed the following standard of conduct for lawyers who refer clients to other professionals or advisors — “Lawyers who refer clients to other professionals or advisors have an obligation of means, not one of result. Although lawyers do not guarantee the services rendered by professionals or advisors to whom they refer their clients, they must nevertheless act competently, prudently and diligently in making such referrals, which must be based on reasonable knowledge of the professionals or advisors in question.

Referring lawyers must be convinced that the professionals or advisors to whom they refer clients are sufficiently competent to fulfill the contemplated mandates.”

For reference, the case is Salomon v.

Matte-Thompson, 2019 SCC. My background is not that of a lawyer, however, the above standard as laid out by the Supreme Court of Canada, made me think about certain questions and my own practice when referring clients to other professionals.

How do I ensure that the professional I’m referring to is competent and experienced?

In order to ensure competence, how do I ensure that I’m independent from the professional I’m referring to? How do I ensure the professional I’m referring to is independent with respect to the matter being considered? For a particular service area, do accreditations and designations now matter even more? What is the standard of care in making referrals on important matters?

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As a matter of sound professional practice, I have always endorsed the fact that accreditations and designations are in place to ensure that a professional meets the minimum standard of competencies and experience required to perform services in a particular field of expertise. In fact, I have written a number of articles on this topic, which you may have read.

Without these accreditations and designations by reputable and widely accepted Institutions, there is no real way to evaluate the professional’s competence and experience, without being directly involved in a review of their work.

I do not believe it is enough to say, “Well this professional has been doing the work for an extensive period of time.”

I have seen many situations over the course of my career where the professional has been doing the work incorrectly for an extensive period and just has not been exposed. Having slightly more knowledge than your client on a subject matter does not make you competent on that subject matter.

The accreditations and designations behind a professional’s name provide some comfort in authenticating that the individual you are referring to has the appropriate technical competency and experience.

If the individual cannot be bothered to make the effort and spend the time required for the accreditation process, are they worthy of your referral? Why should you expose yourself to a liability in making a referral to another professional who is not appropriately accredited in a particular field of expertise?

At the very least, if issues do result with a professional whom you have referred clients to, your defence might include the fact that the individual was appropriately accredited by a widely accepted professional body in that field of expertise.

Further, being a member of a professional Institute allows the referrer the opportunity to ensure the professional is compliant with the Institute’s rules and professional standards. These rules include requirements for continued professional development.

The point here is, even though you may not have the required expertise to assess B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

the professional you are referring clients to, certain professional organizations are in place to ensure that the professional who is worthy of your referrals is indeed qualified in a technically proficient and experienced manner. Many of these professional Institutes have standards around professional independence.

I believe that this recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Canada shows leadership by the court and reflects the advancements made by all professions in protecting the public’s interest by ensuring minimum professional standards are in place and enforced.

Let us keep the “Wild West” behind us and move forward in ensuring a quality product. After all, in the Supreme Court of Canada’s opinion, you are worth protecting.

“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.” — Abraham Lincoln Andrea (Andre) Pontoni holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree, is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), Chartered Business Valuator (CBV) with the Canadian Institute of Chartered Business Valuators, Accredited Senior Appraiser (ASA) in business valuations with the American Society of Appraisers and Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) with CPA Canada and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Andrea has also completed the three part Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada’s indepth tax specialty program. Andrea has over 29 years of experience with 17 of those years at two National Firms where he held senior positions including that of a partner.

His practice includes providing independent advice on business valuation, economic loss quantifications, financial investigations, accounting advice, personal and corporate taxation, financial forecasts, business planning and corporate finance matters to clients varying in size and industry.

He can be reached at C: 519-890-6288 or Ph: 226-674-4901 or by email at apontonicacbv@pontoni.hush.com or at apontonicacbv@cogeco.ca.

For more information on his background, visit: www.PontoniFinancialSolutions.com.

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B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

portfolio corner

To The Dogs

By Steven Mayo

In honour of the “Woofa~Roo Pet Fest” taking place in mid-July, I had a conversation with my dog Zoey, a yellow lab, about her perception of the markets. Our chat went like this . . .

“Zoey, what’s your impression of today’s news?”

“Woof, woof, Trump. Woof, China.

Woof, woof, Trade. Woof, Tariffs….Woof, Interest Rates. That’s what they talk about on TV every night . . . woof, woof, makes me tired.”

“Does this affect how you invest, Zoey?”

“Woof, woof . . . Be patient, buy when the ball is on the ground, not in the sky!”

Makes sense.

“So are you worried about the U.S. economy?”

“Woof, no way. They’re the best at generating ‘kibbles n’ bits.’ (I think she means cash flow). The best bones in the business. Woof!”

Thanks Zoey!

Below are a few other “animal metaphors” on stocks and the markets.

• Turkey or Dog: a bad stock • “Pigs do well and the hogs get slaughtered”: relates to greed and not taking a good profit on a trading position, then watching that trade reverse course.

• Cockroach Theory: It posits that when a company reveals bad news to the public, and earnings miss, there may be many more related negative events yet to be revealed.

The term comes from the common belief that seeing one cockroach is usually evidence that there are many more. This tends to be true more times than not.

• Bull market: a rising market (indicated by the Bull’s horns pointing up) • Bear market: a down market (indicated by the Bear’s claws facing down) • Lemmings: follow the leader without thinking

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• Sheep: are being led, but usually by what their friends are doing. They tend to follow fads, and likely do not appreciate the risk they are taking on.

• The Ostrich: sticks his head in the sand when things aren’t going well.

• Grasshoppers: chase the next best thing jumping from one investment to another.

• Lastly, the Tortoise: practices slow and steady thinking, ideal for being a longterm investor.

Zoey says, “Woof, all hail the tortoise!

Now where’s my toy?”

Let’s wrap up with an appropriate quote.

“My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3 a can. That’s about $21 in dog money.” ~ Joe Weinstein (Comedian) Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Director, and Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

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MILESTONES

Loyal Companions Dog Grooming Inc. Celebrates 30 Years Of Dogs Being A Woman’s Best Friend Story And Photo By Dave Hall

Thirty years ago, Denise Garvin, a single mom at the time, ignored the sexist advice from a pair of bank loan officers and started her own dog grooming business in a small plaza at the corner of College and Campbell in Windsor.

“I was also divorced at the time, which made it even worse in their eyes and they just told me that women should stay home,” recalls Garvin, Owner of Loyal Companions Dog Grooming Inc. “Well, that just raised my hackles and made me even more determined because I needed to make a living.”

She continues by adding, “I love animals and this seemed like the right idea for me at the time. Three decades later, I guess I was right after all.”

Two moves later, Garvin’s business is now located at 2501 Tecumseh Road West in a small stand-alone building across from Canadian Tire.

Nicole McMillan, Garvin’s daughter, and Robert Lee — a pair of independent groomers — also work in the business as does McMillan’s son Cameron Cadarette, who is picking up some basic business skills for use in the future.

It’s a small compact business model and that suits Garvin just fine.

“I never wanted to be a place that takes in 30 dogs a day,” Garvin comments. “Small and quiet is fine with me because I know that’s the only way to service your clients and their dogs.”

Garvin acknowledges there is growing competition from big-box pet stores, many of which offer in-house grooming services. But, she holds true to her belief that small is often better, especially when it

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Through many hardships and tough economic times, Denise Garvin, Owner of Loyal Companions Dog Grooming Inc., is still going strong and staying true to their company motto, “We Care Because You Care.” She is pictured with Zoey, a Pomeranian, at her grooming business on Tecumseh Road West in Windsor.

comes to dealing with dogs, many of which are nervous by nature.

“When you bring a dog to the groomer, it’s not a natural environment and they can get nervous so we try to keep them as calm as possible so they have a positive experience,” she adds.

Garvin also says you have to be prepared to get nipped once in a while, but it can be largely avoided by watching a dog’s eyes, posture and attitude.

“If it’s their first visit, they can get afraid and you have to be prepared to take the time to let them settle down,” she indicates. “As a pet owner, you are their protector and I am as well, because they can’t tell you what’s wrong.”

Garvin sums up the meaning of her business quite nicely with this statement: “When I see dogs bouncing their way in here and looking excited, I know I have accomplished something and I love it.”

Learn more at: LoyalCompanionsDogGrooming.com.

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CORPORATE PROFILE

The Hungry Pooch Now Offers Delivery, Right To Your Doorstep!

Raw Fed Dogs Thrive More, Live Healthier Lives

By Rebecca Wright

Convenient. Healthy. Fresh.

These all describe a lifestyle that has been trending in recent years and will surely remain for years to come. And for many, the same applies for their furry family members.

The Hungry Pooch is this area’s only raw pet food store, assert Owners Alina and Attila Sherman. And now you can get their delicious and nutritious products delivered directly to your doorstep.

“We are definitely not your typical pet store at all,” states Alina. “We don’t have anything with additives, fillers or preservatives, and we don’t have any dry or canned foods.

Essentially, we only sell raw pet food. That’s it. We focus on pet health and pet nutrition through biologically appropriate sources.”

In 2014, the couple began the business out of their home after moving to the Windsor area from Ottawa and realizing there were no raw pet food options for their own precious pup.

“To be honest, we never intended to make a business out of this — we just wanted to help some dogs,” admits Alina. “Our intention was to bring it in for our dog, and if other people wanted it, we would order it for them as well.

So then word spread, and it just got so busy that we were able to open a business so that we could meet and keep up with the demand.”

So what’s the big deal with raw pet food?

Alina says it’s all about ensuring your pet is as healthy and as happy as can be.

She says a raw-fed dog will have a shinier coat, shed less, have cleaner teeth, and a big one — they’ll poop less. About half as much, according to Alina.

“And a raw-fed dog’s poop is also biodegradable, it’s just natural,” she notes.

“People with big dogs, they’re always scooping and scooping large amounts of poop, so that’s usually the first thing people notice.”

These are just some of the many visible and noticeable differences, but there are also internal differences, adds Alina.

“Dogs are generally healthier on raw diets and less susceptible to illnesses,” she comments and points out a lot of their customers have dogs with allergies and illnesses such as pancreas, liver or urinary issues.

“And we’re able to help them just purely by nutrition because a lot of those things are caused by high carbohydrate diets and preservative filled foods,” she says.

The Hungry Pooch’s, Top Dog, Alina Sherman, along with her best friend Jellybean, have just started a delivery service of their products. Husband and Co-Owner Attila Sherman now drives a temperature controlled, frozen food delivery vehicle, serving customers from Windsor to London, and everywhere in between. Photo by Rod Denis.

In 2017, the pair opened their first storefront and now have two locations — one in Tecumseh at 486 Advance Blvd., Unit 110 (in the Oasis Plaza), and the other in south Windsor at 1243 Grand Marais Road West.

Earlier this year, Attila left his position as a banker — which he had held for a decade — and decided to work full-time running the business with Alina.

“When I did that, I actually purchased a refrigerated delivery van and we started a home delivery business, to complement our raw pet store,” Attila notes. They now deliver raw pet food to people’s homes across Windsor Essex and to cities and communities all the way up to and including London.

“It’s really cool,” expresses Attila. “There’s not really anyone in this area delivering raw pet food.”

He emphasizes that the proper equipment is needed to deliver raw pet food so it’s kept cool, and their refrigerated van does just that.

Orders for The Hungry Pooch (website: TheHungryPooch.com) can be placed online and can be paid for online or upon pickup.

At The Hungry Pooch, they only carry Canadian-made raw food and have full lines of about eight brands for customers to choose from.

“We also sell toys, and accessories and treats, and we try to keep everything Canadian and support local artisans as much as possible,” states Alina. “So basically, we B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

are a raw pet food store, but we also want to make it so that if anyone comes in to our store, they can get everything they need for their pet. From leashes and collars to dog beds to different odour repellents, cleaners, dog clothing, cat collars and cat accessories — you name it, we have all kinds of stuff.”

They also sell a huge line of holistic supplements, homeopathic supplements and natural remedies for all kinds of different health issues and ailments.

“What keeps us going and what keeps us motivated is seeing the improvements in so many dogs every day,” says Alina.

486 Advance Blvd., Unit 110 in Oasis Plaza Tecumseh 1243 Grand Marais Road West, South Windsor 519-977-1120 www.TheHungryPooch.com

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Summer Homework . . .

A Lesson On The Many Great Schools Making The Grade In Windsor Essex

By Rebecca Wright, Jim Murphy and Julianna Bonnett

Another fun day at First Lutheran Christian Academy where grade three Teacher, Lori Laszewski, (left) drops in on Kaytee Farren’s grade seven class to see a couple of her favourite students from the past. Farren is a grade seven/eight Teacher and also a Music Teacher. Photo by Rod Denis.

F

or kids, summer vacation is all about enjoying life to the fullest. For parents, it’s about making sure your kids are set for the school year ahead.

Part of that entails weighing your options.

And across Windsor Essex, for children and teens up to the age of 18, there are a number of private schools and boards in the area with various programs, specialties and different methods of teaching. It’s up to you and your family to decide which one is best.

Here are just some of the great educational institutions and facilities in the region, along with plenty of information that may be useful in helping you narrow down your selection . . .

First Lutheran Christian Academy Established in 1995, the non-profit First Lutheran Christian Academy specializes in quality education in a Christ-centred learning environment. They offer students aged three to 14 the full elementary school curriculum with a full complement of

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extracurricular sports, a Lego robotics club, art club, chess club and Gauss math club.

For Suzanne Eberhard, Principal at First Lutheran Christian Academy, this quality education can only come from low student to teacher ratios — a 13 to one average school-wide — and a quality, dedicated staff of educators.

“Our teachers are Ontario College of Teachers certified and are very stable with an average teaching experience of 20 years,” Eberhard says. “They are trained and equipped to help students with a range of learning abilities. Consultation with parents, teachers and administration helps us determine how best to serve individual students.”

Teachers at First Lutheran Christian Academy also make sure children learn the necessity of showing love to one another and respecting one another’s rights and privileges.

“Behavioural expectations are clearly defined and lovingly taught,” Eberhard emphasizes. “Whenever corrective measures become necessary, they are designed to develop favourable attitudes and nurture B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • J U L Y / A U G 2 0 1 9

spiritual growth. Communication between school and home is essential for the success of our students in all areas.”

Their facility, situated at 3850 Locke Street in Windsor, comes equipped with a library, gym, computers, kitchen with hot lunch program, chapel, large playground and is close to a municipal park.

Base tuition at First Lutheran Christian Academy (FLCA.ca) for the first child in a family is $7,000, with each subsequent child receiving a 35 percent discount at $4,500.

There is also availability for half-time PK, JK and SK at $3,700 for the first child in the family, and $2,400 for each subsequent child.

Scholarships are available, based on financial need and payment plans are flexible.

Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board When parents send their children to a school in the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB), they

THE PARENTING BIZ should know they are going into a loving, caring, faith-filled environment where dedicated staff focus on the most vulnerable and strive to help all students find academic success while nurturing their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being, according to Communications Coordinator Stephen Fields.

“We have created a culture of innovation in our schools, and we expose students to experiential learning opportunities that are related to exciting career paths,” notes Fields. “And we embrace the use of advanced technology, always seeking out new ways to enhance student learning.”

There are nine secondary schools — including one adult campus — three middle schools and 32 elementary schools, within the WECDSB throughout Windsor Essex.

They have schools within their board for all ages from kindergarten to grade 12 and provide secondary education for adults at St. Michael’s.

“We also provide childcare centres at many of our elementary schools,” Fields adds.

At the WECDSB, Fields says it’s their mission to know every student and they use an evidence-based, student-centred approach, looking closely at assessment data and individual achievement results to develop learning strategies so that all their students can find success.

“We ensure that our staff are provided with more than adequate professional development so they can employ the latest and best pedagogical methods, while still placing a great deal of emphasis on the fundamentals,” he asserts.

There are several types of specialties with the WECDSB, including: International Baccalaureate (IB) programs at two high schools, two middle schools and one elementary school; French Immersion at seven elementary schools, one middle school and four high schools; STEM Academies at three high schools; a Construction Academy

Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board Communications Coordinator Stephen Fields says the Catholic Board believes all students should be empowered to become independent, active members of their community.

Photo courtesy of the WECDSB.

at two high schools and numerous Sports Academies at schools throughout the board.

“All schools are governed by the same Ministry of Education guidelines on class sizes and system averages and we are fully compliant with those expectations,” Fields reports.

He says because they are a Catholic school board, they believe they are distinguished by their faith.

“It is an essential part of everything we do, but we also work very hard to foster mutual respect for all other faiths,” he comments.

“Our classrooms are faith-filled learning environments where all students, regardless of ability, are included.”

The Catholic Board has a wide variety of facilities, from smaller, quaint neighbourhood older schools to larger more modern ones.

“But, our facilities services department, which includes custodians and maintenance staff, takes great pride in making sure that our buildings are in top-notch condition

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so that our teaching and support staff can deliver curriculum in a safe, clean, and healthy environment,” Fields points out.

In addition to the regular transportation that families can expect, depending on where they live, Fields explains they provide additional transportation on a pilot basis from LaSalle, Lakeshore and South Windsor to their IB programs at Assumption College Catholic High School.

He mentions, “We also provide some lunch time transportation between facilities for some of our academy programs.”

At schools within the WECDSB, Fields says they are committed to providing meaningful, student-focused educational opportunities for all students and use the guiding principles of their Catholic faith to create a sense of belonging and acceptance.

“Each student is included in the typical classroom environment, supported by parents/guardians, peers, staff and other members of the school family,” he describes.

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THE PARENTING BIZ Kindergarten registration period is typically in February, but Fields says they welcome new students and their families into their schools throughout the entire year.

As a piece of advice to parents, he says to visit the school, talk to the principal and the staff members, ask a lot of questions about their academic strategies and also ask about how they are going to support and care for your child.

“Ultimately, we guide our students towards the pathways that work best for them, while helping them establish goals that are consistent with their individual aspiration,” states Fields. “From kindergarten to grade 12 graduation, we’re with you all the way!”

Find out more information on the WindsorEssex Catholic District School Board by logging onto their website: WECDSB.on.ca.

Maranatha Christian Academy For 35 years, the staff at the non-profit Maranatha Christian Academy has been dedicated to teaching, instructing and influencing children from kindergarten to grade 12 — including students with special needs and learning disabilities — in a warm, loving and fun academic environment.

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Principal Rob Lofthouse is pictured in his office at Maranatha Christian Academy. Photo courtesy of Patty Broom.

Their facility, located at 939 Northwood Street in Windsor, includes a library, gym, computer lab, playground, soccer field, specialty art room, workout room and robotics lab.

A primary concern for Rob Lofthouse, Principal of Maranatha Christian Academy, is the safety of students both physically and mentally.

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“We have separate recess for age groups as well as photo identification, security cameras and key fobs,” notes Lofthouse.

“Although discipline is seen as a learning tool, physical contact will not be tolerated, and verbal abuse will result in detentions, suspensions or expulsion.”

Along with strong sports, drama and music programs, Marantha Christian Academy is a Christian school that teaches and models the Christian faith.

Their experienced teachers, coupled with low 15 to one student/teacher ratios, offer a high-quality academic curriculum as set out by the Ontario Ministry of Education with the addition of bible classes.

“Teachers must be certified by the Ontario College of Teachers, and have at least five years of experience, although many of our teachers have more than that,” Lofthouse asserts. “Our graduates are highly sought after by universities and colleges.”

Tuition costs range from $9,500 for elementary school and $12,500 for high school. Students are accepted all year round.

To apply to Maranatha Christian Academy, Lofthouse suggests calling the school or visiting their website at: MaranathaChristian.ca.

THE PARENTING BIZ “We are adamant about ensuring the well-being of each student, which is always in the forefront of our daily activities,” Dean expresses. “Students are taught to be responsible for their self-care and well-being though positive psychology, which is a tool for students to flourish and contribute to the flourishing of others.”

Tuition costs vary based on age and sports development program, and scholarships are available based on character and grades.

To learn more about A21 Academy Prep’s perspective on positive psychology, or to apply, visit: A21Academy.com.

A21 Academy Prep School sports are more than just a fun way for kids to burn off energy. They also teach them discipline, teamwork skills and the value of hard work, according to A21 Academy Prep Administrator Jessica Dean.

Opened in 2013, A21 Academy Prep — located in the WFCU Centre at 8787 McHugh Street on the second floor — offers a variety of sport development programs for children in grades seven to 13, including U18 prep hockey, U12 and U15 varsity hockey, swimming, soccer and intramural sports.

These programs are facilitated through their own weight room, full court gym, four ice pads and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Dean says A21 Academy Prep focuses even more on academic development than on athletics, educating students in both English and French, as well as providing SAT and NCAA prep for American universities.

“We are a prep school that goes beyond the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements offering students the opportunity for progressive, high-level academics to prepare them for university and for life,” states Dean.

“Courses are taught with interdisciplinary projects that connect concepts between

UMEI Christian High School Jes Dean, an Administrator for A21 Academy Prep, stands proudly in front of the school’s logo.

Photo courtesy of A21 Academy Prep.

subjects to create real world applications.”

To prepare students for university and the real world after, teachers at A21 Academy Prep focus on developing the emotional and psychological well-being of students.

This is achieved with small class sizes — a 10 to one student/teacher ratio — and open concept classrooms with moveable furniture.

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Education should be about more than sitting in a classroom listening to a teacher go on and on.

That’s why students at the non-profit UMEI Christian High School participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, field trips and volunteer experiences.

This helps to build the whole person — not just the student in the traditional educational setting — by cultivating the full academic, spiritual and individual potential of each student, according to Abby Neufeld

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Abby Neufeld Dick, Director of Advancement at UMEI Christian High School where students participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, field trips and volunteer experiences. Photo courtesy of Mitchel Hildebrand.

Dick, Director of Advancement at UMEI Christian High School.

“The size of the school allows for most students to get involved whether it is on a sports team, student parliament, yearbook committee, music or drama,” says Neufeld Dick. “On average, more than 90 percent of our students are involved in an extracurricular activity.”

Along with the benefit of small class sizes — nine to one student/teacher ratio — the

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small size of the school also allows students to participate in an average of 40 off-campus educational trips between grade nine and grade 12, along with countless volunteer opportunities on campus and within the local community.

Anchored in the Anabaptist tradition since 1945, Neufeld Dick tells Biz X their staff is committed to modelling their Christian faith as teachers. Along with a high school diploma, students graduate with a Religious Studies diploma and are required to take religious studies courses each year.

Their campus, situated at 614 Mersea Road 6 in Leamington, is equipped with a top-of-the-line science lab, a universityclass technology lab — giving students the upper-hand when pursuing post-secondary science — a top-level gymnasium and a newly redesigned electronics lab with topnotch computers.

Neufeld Dick points out math classes are taught using a “flipped” classroom.

She explains: “Classroom flipping flips the traditional method of spending class time on instruction and home time on homework questions. Now, students watch lecture videos created by the Math Teacher Chani Wiens at home and spend class time working on group challenges, interactive activities and

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the practice questions from the textbook.”

For those interested in applying to UMEI Christian High School, book a tour of their campus at: UMEI.ca. Tuition is $7,765 per year and five entrance scholarships are available for new students ranging from $2,000 to $2,500 each as well as more than 30 scholarships given to students at the end of the year.

Greater Essex County District School Board There are a vast number of different programs available within the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB).

“We also encourage and support a great number of extracurricular opportunities for students including athletics, robotics and the arts,” states Director of Education Erin Kelly. “The GECDSB also allows for and values student voices in their education and encourages parents/guardians/families to be involved and engaged in their children’s learning.”

There are 55 elementary and 15 secondary schools spanning across the nine municipalities within the GECDSB districts, which includes Pelee Island and all areas of the City of Windsor, including the core.

THE PARENTING BIZ “GECDSB school communities have a well-earned reputation for a persistent pursuit of excellence, with professional and dedicated staff and opportunities for all students in an environment of equity and inclusion that respects and celebrates diversity,” comments Kelly.

There is a wide range of choice available throughout the GECDSB in both elementary and secondary schools.

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE:

12 Students TO BOOK A TOUR VISIT UMEI.CA

Greater Essex County District School Board Director of Education Erin Kelly notes that schools within her board have diverse programming and strong community partnerships with organizations such as BASF (Fighting Island), St. Clair College, University of Windsor, Windsor Symphony, Arts Can Teach and the Unemployed Help Centre, which enhances the opportunities they can offer to students. Photo courtesy of GECDSB.

According to Kelly, programs include: French Immersion at 13 elementary schools and three secondary schools; the grade 11-12 International Baccalaureate Programme offered at two high schools; and two elementary schools approved as Candidate Schools to offer the I.B. Primary Years Programme; the Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts at Walkerville Collegiate Institute is one of the most successful and well-known performing and visual arts schools in Ontario; e-STEAM (Entrepreneurship in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math) is offered at Tecumseh Vista Academy; English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are offered at Westview Freedom Academy and now Kennedy Collegiate Institute with strong support for ESL at the elementary level as well; one of the finest Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Programs in the province; Specialist High Skills Majors in a variety of subject areas; and Transition to Language Learning (Arabic) kindergarten to grade three at F.W. Begley Public School in Windsor.

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THE PARENTING BIZ The public board follows the provincially mandated guidelines for class size.

“Our outdoor learning program is exceptional with outdoor learning areas at most schools, as well as well conceived and laid out recreation and play areas,” Kelly indicates. “The GECDSB also has sincere concern for the mental health and wellness of our students and staff, with resources and supports available to all.”

Classrooms are diverse and inclusive, Kelly asserts. From a physical aspect, the GECDSB has aggressively pursued all avenues to build, rebuild or renovate their schools, she says.

“Since 2007 we have built 10 new schools, done major rebuilds/additions on four others and have six new school construction projects approved and in various stages of development,” says Kelly. “This board has also been able to invest tens of millions of dollars in recent years in building renewal, which includes upgrades in heating systems, windows, roofs and lighting.”

In Special Education, the GECDSB has a variety of programs to support all students.

“Every school has access to services and supports with an emphasis on early intervention,” describes Kelly. “We are the largest user of the successful LEXIA and Empower literacy programs in Canada.”

Registration is done through a school visit or you can register online through their website: PublicBoard.ca.

Although their main focus is curriculum delivered for students from kindergarten to grade 12, the GECDSB also offers educational programs for almost everyone.

Wrapping up their section, Kelly sums up all they can do with: “We have programs for students from ages four to 104 — with a vibrant continuing education program.”

Academie Ste-Cécile International School It takes a village to raise a child.

That’s why the well qualified teaching staff at the non-profit Academie Ste-Cécile International School (ASCIS) — located at 925 Cousineau Road in Windsor since 1995 when it moved from Tecumseh — work collaboratively as a team to give students from kindergarten to grade 12 the best possible education to prepare them for the real world.

ASCIS is part of a family of schools of which Holy Family Achievement School offers programs with qualified teachers for students with learning exceptionalities.

ASCIS teachers have a range of education including E.C.E., B.ED, B.A., A.R.C.T., LCSC-CICB, NBS, TTP, Masters degrees

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including M.ED, and PhDs. Teacher experience ranges from recent Faculty of Education graduates to teachers with over 30 years of teaching experience.

This team of teachers ensure all students are held to exceptionally high standards.

“Our students enter and achieve outstanding results in external writing, math and science competitions,” says Jo-Ann Kohuch, ASCIS Elementary Principal. “All students write the Canadian Achievement Standardized Test each year to monitor the students’ progress as it relates to the school, the provincial standard and the national standard.”

Academie Ste-Cécile International School understands that students benefit from investments made into the school’s facilities.

“Our school offers bright classrooms to facilitate learning, a chapel, dining hall and boarding school facilities,” comments Kohuch. “Our campus also includes music and dance studios, state of the art athletic facilities including gymnasiums with professional basketball and volleyball courts, a cardio and weight room, an outdoor artificial turf soccer field designed to meet FIFA standards, and an eight-lane track designed to meet IAAF standards.”

Programs at the elementary school include a preparatory nursery, daycare and JK to grade eight classes.

The elementary school is also a candidate for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program.

The high school students follow the curriculum to fulfill the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, as well, the high school is an International Baccalaureate World School (IB) and is authorized to prepare students for the requirements of the IB diploma and certificates. Also, the high school prepares students to write Advanced Placement Examinations, SATs, TOEFL, and IELTS exams.

To inquire about tuition or to apply, visit their website: AcademieSteCecile.ca.

Montessori Academy Of Windsor Every child is unique, so why shouldn’t their education be?

The strong, passionate and experienced teachers at the Montessori Academy of Windsor, 1775 Sprucewood Avenue in LaSalle, understand each child requires an individualized education that best suits them and their academic and psychological needs.

“We follow the child and give them individual lessons on a daily basis to meet

THE PARENTING BIZ the child’s needs,” says Dusanka Stulic, Director and Principal of the Montessori Academy of Windsor. “Every child is special and unique and each one learns in a different way and at a different pace.”

Their classrooms are scientifically designed to meet the developmental needs of each child in every stage of life, allowing children to move freely through the environment, choosing activities that interest them.

“The beauty of the Montessori environment is the way it invites children to learn easily and effortlessly,” believes Stulic. “The materials in the environment that facilitate learning are set up from easiest to hardest, from concrete to abstract, from left to right and from top to bottom, so the children are learning with understanding and are not simply memorizing information teachers are giving them.”

Her school offers programs for infants, toddlers, preschool, private elementary school (grades one to eight), before and after school tutoring, summer camp and March Break programs.

“Education starts at birth and never ends,” Stulic says. “We build concentration, coordination, order and independence that are key for learning and developing a lifelong love of learning.”

Stulic also informs Biz X that children

Dusanka Stulic, Principal and Director of Montessori Academy of Windsor, poses in one of the classrooms inside her school in LaSalle. Photo by Jim Murphy.

attending the Montessori Academy of Windsor (which opened in 2004) are encouraged to develop creativity and imagination to prepare them to be entrepreneurs in the job market.

“It is not so much about finding a job in today’s economy,” Stulic mentions. “It is

more about creating your own job.”

School programs run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Tuition fees for JK to grade eight are $800 per month.

Admissions are accepted all year round, and more information can be found on: MontessoriAcademy.ca.

L'ÉCOLE CATHOLIQUE :

THE CHOICE OF 7 OUT OF 10 FRANCOPHONE PARENTS

Why? Because our schools offer your child all the assets to succeed!

SUPERIOR ACADEMIC RESULTS HIGHEST GRADUATION RATES RECOGNIZED FOR ITS QUALITY OF TEACHING HIGH-LEVEL OF SUSTAINABLE BILINGUALISM A COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATIONAL APPROACH

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CSC Providence At Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence (CSC), the best way to learn and master the French language is to be fully immersed in French-as-a-first-language setting. That is one of the many ways this French language Catholic school brings its students to success, according to CSC Communications Officer, Lyne Cossette.

CSC opened in January of 1998 and prides itself that it is on the road to sustainable bilingualism through a comprehensive setting where students will not only function in French, but will think in French and will be able to live in French.

“Due to our high-level of sustainable bilingualism, it helps increase a child’s abilities to fully master the language,” says Cossette. “In our schools, teachers are native speakers of French and have fully mastered the language. Their responsibility goes beyond the teaching of basic communication skills — he or she creates a strong and motivating learning environment.”

The school offers special programs and services designed specifically to meet the needs of all students from kindergarten through grade 12.

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“Our French Language Acquisition Program allows students to develop and improve their proficiency in French in order to succeed academically,” Cossette points out. “Based on the children’s proficiency in French, they may be offered an individualized program designed to enhance his or her linguistic competencies.”

With several schools in the Windsor Essex area, CSC provides a safe and happy environment for all children wanting to take their education to the next level.

“CSC Providence helps students learn in a supportive environment where they feel responsible for each other,” says Cossette.

If you are looking for a fully immersed French school for your child to attend in September, check out the CSC website: CscProvidence.ca/registration For their high school programs please refer to: MyHighSchool.ca.

Lakeview Centre For Academic Excellence: A Montessori School After a successful 40 years of teaching and maintaining their hands-on learning strategy, while specializing in technology and the arts, Lakeview Montessori is a great place to send your child to be educated.

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Maureen Harris, Head of the School, Professor at the Lakeview Montessori School, says after conducting a survey about transportation with the community, it was deemed that parents are pleased with the school’s use of a “Kiss and Ride” program. Photo courtesy of Milestone Photography.

According to the Head of the School, Professor Maureen Harris, Lakeview Montessori School, 13797 Riverside Drive East in Tecumseh, offers many perks in their teaching curriculum.

“We offer individualized learning, a fun and progressive environment, passionate teachers, low student-teacher ratios, a community feel and tons of extracurricular activities,” says Harris.

Lakeview Montessori is a progressive

school and is accredited by the Canadian Accreditation of Independent Schools (CAIS) and the Canadian Council for Montessori Administrators (CCMA). The school mainly focuses on how the curriculum is being implemented and is held to a high standard on how their school culture is recognized by their families, Board of Directors and faculty.

“We are also a Montessori Teaching Centre, and once our adult students graduate, their certificate is internationally recognized,” Harris comments. “We are proud to have been closely observed and able to secure two well-known accreditations.” (See above.)

Currently, the school is expanding by adding a gym, a robotics classroom, music and arts room and also two toddler classrooms and infant room for their variety of age groups ranging from infant to age 14.

When it comes to tuition cost and dress code, it depends upon the age of the student.

“For the regular school year there is a uniform, but this is not required in the summer months,” Harris notes. “Students are guided in the appropriate direction when required — upon their age group.”

When it comes to choosing a good school, Harris advises parents to view their website: LakeviewMontessori.ca for more information about what they can offer.

Did We Teach You A Thing Or Two On Local Schooling Options?

We think so — with this informative article!

Keep researching your choices and do your homework assigned here to scope out different schools online this summer.

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September will be here before you know it!

You should also stop by in person to meet the staff and teachers who can help you decide if the school is a right fit for your son or daughter.

As education creates a foundation for a child’s future, be sure, when making your decision, to take note of the advice of all the educated people you know.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Yahoo! School’s out for summer and kids are ready to play and have fun in the sun.

But, their parents have an important job first to find ways to keep their children active and entertained . . . and if there’s a chance to learn something new at the same time — that’s an added bonus!

This helpful guide highlights specific events, activities and day camps you may consider for your children. Of course this is not a complete list of all there is for kids to do in Windsor/Essex County this summer, but it offers some fantastic suggestions!

Be sure to use the phone numbers and check the websites of each business or organization listed here to get the particulars on how your children can participate. *Unless noted the area code to use is 519 Canada South Science City (CSSC): Designed to amaze “children of all ages” in the thrill of discovery in science, CSSC entertains as it reveals unifying principles of nature together with a variety of applications.

It advances the understanding and appreciation of science through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiments and workshops. To learn more about summer science day camps stop by 749 Felix Avenue

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© Can Stock Photo/serrnovik

© Can Stock Photo/focalpoint

SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE

Highlighted Summer Camps, Activities & Events For Kids In July & August 2019

in Windsor; refer to: CSScienceCity.com or phone 973-3667.

Cathy’s Dance Studio: Dancers can take part in all styles of dance with specific camps held: July 8-12, 15-19, 22-26; July 29Aug.2 and Aug.12-16 and 19-23. Full day $190/wk, $160 for additional weeks, and half day $120/wk. See: CathysDanceStudio.net for more information on times, locations or call the Windsor studio, 969-7956 or LaSalle, 969-7957.

Dance Barre: A variety of Summer Dance Camps are offered, drop-in classes and themed dance workshops for ages three

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and up. Get your dancer moving in a “DropIn Class” in the style of their choice, or enroll in a 1.5 hour themed workshop such as “Pirates and Mermaids,” “Hip Hop Glow Party,” “Frozen Fever” and more. Location: 4530 Rhodes Drive in Windsor. Check: DanceBarre.ca for class schedules!

Elite Piano Studios: A variety of music camps, specializing in piano, guitar and voice, are planned for this summer. Private and group classes available for all ages and levels. Unleash your inner musician with fun and exciting guidance from the Elite team!

Elite Piano Studios is conveniently located at

THE PARENTING BIZ 3315 Banwell Road just off the expressway.

To register or to receive more information on their music camps, visit the website: ElitePianoStudios.com or call 999-8903.

Essex County Library (ECL): It’s the “Summer of Discovery” at the ECL! Keep your child reading and learning all summer long by participating in fun and exciting programs and activities at the library.

Visit any ECL branch this summer to read, discover and create! For more details go to: EssexCountyLibrary.ca.

Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary: “Uncle Jack’s Summer Fun Week” is a program for children ages six to 11 which includes camp games, arts and crafts, sports, nature walks, feeding the birds and more.

“Uncle Jack’s Summer Fun Week” runs August 5 to 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost to attend is $25 per day or $100 per week. The grounds are located at 332/360 Road 3 West in Kingsville. For more information refer to: JackMiner.com or call 733-4034.

Montessori Academy Of Windsor: Come visit this safe, nurturing, inspiring environment for fun activities each day during the Summer Break sure to make your child giggle! Early drop off and late pick-up available at 1775 Sprucewood Avenue in LaSalle. To learn more visit: MontessoriAcademy.ca; or call 967-9977.

Sports Discovery Camp: Designed for ages six to 12 these camps put kids first by focusing on building self-confidence, teamwork and leadership skills through 15 different sports including basketball, dodgeball, pickleball, and Ultimate Frisbee!

All camps are held at The Polish Club; 1275 Langlois Avenue, Windsor and take place July 2 to August 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To register or to receive more information, visit: SportsDiscovery.camp or call 226-242-2328.

The Literacy Loft: Help your kids keep their minds active this summer, avoid brain drain, and feel confident at the beginning of the school year. Learn and have fun with The Literacy Loft this summer! Special summer rates offered for individualized lessons.

Location: 2052 Ottawa Street, Windsor.

For further information and details, call 562-1033.

The School House Academy Daycare Services: Here is a great opportunity for children, infant to school aged, to participate in a variety of exciting activities over the Summer Break. Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., snacks and lunch are included.

Infant, toddler, preschool are open as well.

Register today, limited spaces are available.

Location: 3450 Ypres Avenue (off Central) in Windsor. For more information visit their website: TheSchoolHouseAcademy.com or call 974-6222.

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3D Modelling Program Tech Workshop For Young Women Aims To Build Skills And Improve Interest In STEM

By Victoria Rose, Marketing & Branding Director for Build a Dream

Nour Hachem-Fawaz, Build a Dream President and Founder is shown during the “International Day of the Girl” celebration in October 2018. The event recognized the contributions of community members (male and female) who empower young girls and women.

Photo courtesy of Sanja Tabor.

Ten young girls (grades nine to 12) from from Windsor Essex high schools will explore technology and express their creativity at the Build a Dream “3D Modelling Workshop” this summer.

The hands-on program runs July 24 to 26 and gives the students access to the 3D print lab at the University of Windsor School of Creative Arts where they can learn the basics of creating and editing digital objects in 3D space, as well how to prepare their object for printing.

At the end of the three day camp, students can take their objects home.

“Data shows that girls will begin to lose interest in STEM as they get older,” says Nour HachemFawaz, Build a Dream President and Founder.

“Engaging them with exciting opportunities like these is one of the ways that we can keep them interested and demonstrate that jobs where women are currently under-represented (like STEM) are viable career options.”

For University of Windsor School of Creative Arts Professor Rod Strickland, it’s also a way to introduce the STEM to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) conversation.

Strickland points out, “STEAM is an inclusive approach to learning that encourages students to practice creative problem-solving and communication skills, through hands-on process-driven projects. Tomorrow’s innovative thinkers will become the designers and engineers of our technological world.”

Parents and their daughters can visit: WeBuildADream.com to learn more about the 3D camp and see what other programs Build a Dream offers.

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Bringing you all the action in the region since 1998.

To view more events visit: BizXmagazine.com

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

was there!

On June 11, 2019 the family run restaurant, La Guardia Italian Cuisine celebrated their 40th anniversary. Shown are Head Chef Joe Ciliberto, along with his father, and Owner, Michael Ciliberto (seated) who salute their customers with a toast surrounded by their own homemade dishes: Grilled Ahi Tuna over Rice Pilaf, Fried Spicy Shrimp with Romesco Sauce and Pappardelle Primavera.

The restaurant is located at 59 Pitt Street East in downtown Windsor. Photo by Rod Denis.

Welcoming guests for their May 30 grand opening of the third location in Essex County of Jump Realty, 3390 Walker Road, Suite 300, from the second floor “Jump Hub” are Co-Owners Mary Morrison and Damon Winney. The duo founded Jump Realty in January 2017, which has rapidly grown into an agency with over 30 Real Estate Agents.

The Owners want the Jump Hub to be a place where professionals come to work, but both agents and clients feel like its home. Gathered around the new office’s pool table are Jump Realty employees, family, friends and fellow business owners. The pool table provides a stress-relief activity and proves that even though the Jump team works hard for their clients, they still know how to have a good time!

The new office has an innovative and tech-forward design, with open space for interactive collaboration. Jump Realty guests were treated to the grand tour, an array of finger foods, live music and networking opportunities.

Enjoying a selection of meats against a modern orange accent wall are employees Lindsay Dahl (left) and Tori La Rocque who are joined by Rick Conte, Owner of Tericon Renovations.

Jump photos by Josie Elysia.

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Transition to Betterness (T2B) hosted its very first “Wheels in Transition — Car Rally” on June 15, 2019. Doris Lapico, Co-Founder of T2B and John Ondejko, Freelance Consultant, put the pedal to the metal to get things started with the official event decal on a 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet. The morning began bright and early at J.P. Wiser’s Brand Centre, 2072 Riverside Drive in Windsor, with a mini car show for auto enthusiasts with a special invite to the kids in T2B paediatric programs, as well as other programs for children across the region. Lapico and her team were absolutely ecstatic with the final tally of funds T2B Car Rally photos by Rod Denis. raised for their programs — over $80,000!

The rally wrapped up in Chatham later that evening at RM Sotheby’s, a business fuelled by their love of cars and a passion for producing results since 1976. Their vertically integrated range of services, from restoration and private treaty sales to auctions and estate planning, provide an unsurpassed level of

With a completely restored 1969 Ford F-250, Vince Rosati Jr. is ready for another 50 years in business! This is the first truck Rosati Construction bought in 1969 under founders Vince and Olivia Rosati (Vince’s grandparents). It was restored for the Rosati Group’s 50 year anniversary, currently being celebrated in 2019.

service to the global car collector market.

Fifty vehicles made the trek to Chatham for an exclusive tour at RM Sotheby’s including this Dodge Viper GTS with Luke Piskovic (left), Owner and Operator of Piskey’s Mobile Auto Wash & Detailing and Ryan Ceshan, Owner of Motive Performance.

Dr. William “Bud” Muzzatti, Owner of Midtown Dental Centre and his wife Marianne are photographed waiting for the start of the “Wheels in Transition — Car Rally” with their 1959 Jaguar XK 150. This unique and thrilling event wouldn’t be possible without T2B’s generous sponsors: FA Investments/Universal Health Products; Mid South Land Developments; Formula First Collision; Tim Hortons — Jim and Marcy Cheetham; The Rosati Group; Double Diamond Farms; Omega Tool Corp.; Integrity Tool & Mold and the Rafih Auto Group.

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The 4th Annual “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” Benefitting The Kidney Foundation of Canada May 9, 2019 at Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside Drive East, Windsor Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Over $32,000 was raised at the 4th annual “Celebrity Men Fashion Event” for The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter — surpassing the 2018 amount raised by over $6,000! Fourteen smiling faces and energetic models hit the runway sporting fashions from Caché Boutique, Collins Clothiers, The Running Factory and The Suit Shop Co Ltd. with sunglasses by Visions of Canada. Taking their final bow (with clothing supplier noted) in front of an enthusiastic crowd and Co-Emcee/local actress Michelle Mainwaring in the background were: (Collins) Frank Abbruzzese, President, AlphaKOR; Tom O’Brien (waving), Vintner, Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards Winery and Dale Harvie, Constable, Windsor Police Services; (Suit Shop) Brent Vicary, RN, Renal Department, Windsor Regional Hospital; (Collins) Jay Marchillo, Radio DJ, Mix 96.7 FM and Eric Skene, Strength Coach, Body by Synergy; (Suit Shop) Scott Martindale, General Manager, Martindale Windows; (Collins) Gary Archibald, Meteorologist, CTV News Windsor and Mark Dudfield, Owner, Better Blinds and Drapery; (Suit Shop) Mike Graber, RN, Renal Department, Windsor Regional Hospital and Rob Gyori, President, Impact Staffing. Models missing from photo: Asaph Maurer, Artist and Peter Savoni, Professor, Odette School of Business; Dan Patterson, Owner WKND Hospitality Group.

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2. “No peeking!” Men In Kilts Windsor Owners Lisa and Ben Snow, along with their two employees Joseph Brinson and Dan Nauta, can prove that while their company catch phrase has a fun outlook on window/gutter cleaning and house washing, they always get the job done efficiently. The business was a diamond sponsor of the event.

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To see even more photos and videos from this event and others, visit: BizXmagazine.com under “Biz X was there” 3. Janssen Canada is a dedicated company that addresses the needs of Canadian patients with treatments for oncology, immunology, neuroscience and chronic diseases. They were a gold sponsor for this year’s fashion event and represented by: Chelsea Snow, Territory Manager; Karen Fosten, Senior Territory Manager and Dipen Kalaria, Marketing Manager and Corporate Accounts.

4. Samantha Habib, “Miss Teen Windsor”; Lance Moore, Windsor Firefighter and Sophia Jovic, Director of Pharmacy Development for Sunshine Drugs, volunteered to sell raffle tickets for a Canadian diamond earring set, pendant and necklace set in white and yellow gold, appraised by Trisha Kharwal at over $2,800.

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5. Rob and Deborah Armitage, Sales Representatives for RE/MAX Preferred Realty Ltd., Brokerage (working under the name “Team Armitage”) were also proud diamond sponsors of the “Celebrity Men Fashion Event.”

6. Over 250 were in attendance including a few of the front line nurses who help those with kidney disorders like: Jen Simone, Charmaine Foresto, Kelly Ross, Michelle DiNardo (Social Worker), Mike Graber, Brent Vicary (both celebrity models that evening) and Kristen Mailloux.

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The 20th Annual “Walk On Erie Street”

Raising Funds For Family Respite Services In Windsor June 17, 2019. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

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1. The Family Respite Services (FRS) “Walk On Erie Street” culinary fundraiser may have featured a taste of Little Italy, but it raised a big amount of cash, over $20,000 and counting! The progressive walk, wine and dine included St. Angela Centre & Hall (750 Erie Street East) for appetizers, with each guest walking to three restaurants close together, throughout the evening, and ending up back at the hall for dessert.

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FRS representatives Alexandria Fischer, Community Relations Coordinator; Cathy Shanahan, Executive Director and Kate Koschuck, Family Coordinator posed with Ehab Heleeji, a teen boy with a developmental disability. “I love FRS, they helped me learn how to socialize and now I’ve got more friends,” Heleeji said.

Family Respite Services works alongside 1,100 families who have a child with a

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developmental disability, mental health disorder, physical disability or medical health challenge. Learn more about FRS by checking: FamilyRespite.org.

2. Over 400 participants came out to show their support of FRS and to enjoy some “special” culinary dishes because Nico Taverna, Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge, La Contessa, Bacchus Ristorante and Spago

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

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prepared items that are not typically on their menus. Pictured were Chef Pat Lizzi and Owner Filip Rocca of Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge, 804 Erie Street East, who offered guests a delicious plate of Veal Fungi; milk fed veal with a wild mushroom cream sauce and a side of garlic sautéed green beans.

3. Chef Gary Provenzano of Spago, 690 Erie Street East, teased guests with three dishes, featuring a triple threat of Gnocchi served with three exquisite sauces of fresh tomato, garlic cream, and pesto.

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4. Servers and sisters Flora, Sarah and Dina Takachi (daughters of Owner/Chef Joanna Takachi) at La Contessa Ristorante, 780 Erie Street East, presented a cauliflower medley salad and a trifecta of Bruschetta, Sachetti pasta and Veal Limone.

5. Chef Nick Politi, Owner of Nico Taverna, 501 Erie Street East, was thrilled to plate his creation for the sold out event. Guests certainly enjoyed devouring a generous portion of wood-fire, grilled Arctic Char, encrusted lamb leg roast and Fennel salad.

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6. Meanwhile at Bacchus Ristorante, 614 Erie Street East, enjoying an appetizer of pumpkin flatbread, crispy pancetta, peperonata and more, were Guido, Jennifer, Janet, Shirley and Kathleen (last names withheld) who’ve attended the “Walk on Erie Street” for four years.

Now that we have you craving Italian food, we hope you can get to these local restaurants soon and support them, just like they supported FRS by generously donating their time and food!

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from the bookshelf

Detective Norm Strom Returns And One Day At The Welcome Centre

By Marlene Markham-Gay

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ocal author Edmond Gagnon, a retired Windsor Police Detective and avid world traveller, has just released his latest book in the “Norm Strom Crime Series,” which is based on events and people he encountered during his years in law enforcement.

Gagnon previously wrote and selfpublished books titled “Rat,” “Bloody Friday,” “Torch” and “Finding Hope.”

He joined fellow authors Christian Laforet and Ben Van Dongen in putting together a crime anthology, “All These Crooked Streets.”

“Border City Chronicles,” Gagnon’s latest book, is a collection of three Norm Strom crime fiction stories, all tales of murder.

The first two stories, “Baby Shay” and “Designated Hitters” take place in Windsor neighbourhoods and the third, “Knock-Out,” happens across the river in Detroit. You will recognize many street names and businesses on both sides of the border of Detroit and Windsor, woven throughout the crime scenes.

Gagnon’s character Norm Strom is known as “Storm” by his fellow officers and although he is retired, becomes part of the investigating team. When he plans a lunch date with an old friend in Detroit, he finds himself chasing down a suspect and coming to the aid of a former love interest, the beautiful Abigail.

Our detective hero in the story becomes involved in the case as a witness and helps the drop-dead gorgeous Detroit Police Officer solve the crime.

It is all here — murder, settling of old scores in the hood, and steamy romance!

So relax with that lemonade or a cold beer, depending on your pleasure, and pick up this excellent crime book to read outside.

“Border City Chronicles” can be purchased in Windsor at Juniper Books, 1990 Ottawa Street and PB Books, 3947 Tecumseh Road East. It is also available online at: EdmondGagnon.com and in e-book format on: Chapters.Indigo.ca.

Our next summer read is written for young children, by local author Lady Laforet and illustrated by her husband, Christian Laforet (note above reference.)

“One Day at the Welcome Centre” is a little

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book that tells a big story. It is cleverly written so that children can understand what a shelter is and what it means to be homeless.

Lady, Executive Director of the Welcome Centre Shelter for Women and Families, and Christian, author of “The Space Between Houses,” are two parents concerned with raising socially justice-minded children, ages eight and six. The story is based on their oldest daughter Lelania Blue and her interactions at the Welcome Centre over the years.

Lelania Blue learns that her new friend Edith, staying at the shelter, needs affordable housing.

She takes this to the person in charge and soon she is given an explanation about what exactly affordable housing means. Lelania Blue now knows there needs to be enough money left over after Edith pays her rent for food and stuff and she needs safe housing.

There are long lists of people waiting for safe, affordable housing. “Homeless” is also a term that is explained in this book in terms that a child can understand.

The Welcome Centre has been supporting women in the west end of Windsor since 1990. Today, they provide emergency shelter for women with kids and couples, combined with a women’s drop-in program, and an emergency food bank.

The program has a harm reduction focus and continues the good work started by five women who wanted to see more support for low-income women in the west end of the city.

(Learn more on: WelcomeCentreShelter.com.)

All funds generated from the sales of the book will stay with the agency and will be put toward future community engagement efforts on behalf of the shelter.

“One Day at the Welcome Centre” is available through the Welcome Centre, 263 Bridge Avenue; From the Heart, 1356 Ottawa Street and White Feather Holistic Arts, 1350 Ottawa Street, all in Windsor.

Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at the Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books. Marlene is an avid reader and encourages her grandchildren to read as well.

THE WAY IT WAS

Spoke Of Triumphs Yet To Come

By Andrea Grimes

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orld War I lost a generation of young and patriotic Canadian men who were steeled by doing the right thing to preserve our Canadian identity.

They were there on the killing fields of the Western front, each man bringing what he had to give; and where innocence was lost, courage was found. In a flash, they went from being boys to becoming men. For those who were alive in the morning, many were dead in the evening.

The article, “Windsor Has Laid Its First Sacrificial Offering On The Altar Of Patriotism,” appeared in the Evening Record February 21, 1900. “Sergeant Walter White, who served with the 21st Battalion Essex Fusiliers, was the first soldier from Windsor, Ontario to fall in the Boer War. He was just 19 years old.” White’s name is inscribed on the South African Boer War Memorial located in Windsor’s Jackson Park.

“Late Windsor Officer Who Died Leading His Men Was Always Salacious Of Their Welfare” was the byline appearing in the July 15, 1915 edition of the Evening Record.

The article reads; “When the order came to charge, Capt. Joseph Grant Helliwell was the first man out of the trench and he led his men on until he was killed by a shot from the German trenches.”

Helliwell served with the 21st Regiment and fell in Festubert, France June 15, 1915.

The article continues, “Since he entered the trenches and his way of handling his men and looking after their interests won him their greatest respect and confidence.”

An article entitled, “Makes Supreme Sacrifice” also appeared in the Evening Record on December 12, 1917.

It published that “Windsor resident Corporal Joe Orville (a stretcher bearer) was killed in action on the west front by a German shell on November 4, 1917. Before enlisting in No. 2 Field Ambulance in 1914, he was employed as a fireman at the Kelsey Wheel Co.” “May Have Been Victim Of Air Raid On Hospital.” This article, appearing in the Evening Record June 4, 1917, brought the devastating news that “Pte. Philippe Baillargeon of Windsor, Ontario, who served with the No. 2 Canadian stationary hospital, gave up his life at 23 years of age in France, perhaps as a victim of the German air raids on hospital sites.”

WWI Veteran Lt. Joseph Gore Shepley of Amherstburg, Ontario served with the Canadian Engineers. He is pictured with his sister (name unknown). Shepley fell October 26, 1918 and rests in Seaford Cemetery, Sussex, United Kingdom. His “Silver Cross Medal” has been entrusted to the care of the Masonic Thistle Lodge in Amherstburg, Ontario as requested by the Shepley family.

Photo courtesy of Gene Lotz.

The article further adds that Baillargeon was decorated for gallantry in January of 1917 for carrying our wounded under heavy fire.

“Windsor Man Killed.” One irony of WWI was brought to light in the June 16, 1917 edition of the Evening Record when it was reported, “Sgt. Herbert Heathers, reported killed in action, was a prominent all around athlete and popular member of the 21st Regiment. Almost simultaneously with the arrival of the telegram telling his sister, Mrs. Ernest Lane of Heathers’ death, a letter was

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received from him stating he was well.”

Gene Lotz, Curator and Archivist with The Windsor Museum of Freemasons researched military service history of a number of our WWI Veterans who were Lodge Brothers from southwestern Ontario.

Lotz’s research confirms the Masonic Rose Lodge No. 30 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons was established in Sandwich, Ontario on September 13, 1850. Lodge members met at the Free Masons Arms Inn, 353 Bedford Street until the Lodge’s closure September 24, 1858.

In memory of Freemasons who fell in service to Canada, Lotz dedicated the Masonic Rose Lodge No. 30 War Monument in Sandwich on September 20, 1997 during the bicentennial celebrations of the founding of Sandwich in 1797.

Adding to Windsor’s history, Lotz says, “I came across a piece of concrete that was being used as a doorstop at the Masonic Temple on Ouellette Avenue. My research confirmed that it was the cornerstone from a windmill in Sandwich, Ontario 1804.”

The angst of war spoke of the sacrifice made by generations of families on the home front who kept in their hearts . . . the promise of triumphs yet to come! How often do you think about your freedom?

As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the “Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal” and the “Governor General’s Medal” recognizing her volunteer service to Veterans and military families of our Canadian Armed Forces as well as with military family servicesupport organizations to include North Wall Riders Association, Windsor Veterans Memorial Service Committee, Military Institute of Windsor, the Royal Canadian Naval Association, the Korean War Veterans Association and the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association. As a writer with Biz X magazine since 2012, Grimes has brought our community closer to recognizing our Veterans for their military service and the sacrifice made to preserve our Canadian values of democracy.

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OF THE MONTH

By Dave Hall

Bank On A Prosperous Future With The Libro Credit Union Team

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ibro Credit Union has grown from humble beginnings, almost 70 years ago, to be the largest credit union in Southwestern Ontario with clients spread out over more than two dozen communities.

Established in 1951, Libro has expanded over the years through a series of amalgamations with other credit unions across Southwestern Ontario and now has over 600 employees at more than 35 branches with $4.6 billion in assets under administration on behalf of 105,000 clients, or “owners” as Libro describes them.

Libro originally focused on the agricultural sector; but, over time, it has expanded its offerings to include business and personal banking services.

In the Essex County region, they have local branches in Essex, Belle River, Leamington, Amherstburg, Kingsville, and Harrow, as well as a new commercial banking branch at 1501 Howard Avenue (inside the Windsor Accelerator), which marks its first entry into the Windsor market.

“We believe the time was right to offer our services in the area of commercial banking to owners in Windsor,” explains Carolyn Vsetula, Regional Agricultural & Commercial Manager — Essex Kent/ Coach for Libro. “We plan to open a fullservice branch in Windsor eventually, but there is no timetable in place at the moment.”

Vsetula says that Libro is operated by its owners who receive a yearly dividend based on their level of business with the credit union and Libro’s profits in any given year, which differentiates it from most financial institutions.

In 2018 for example, Libro returned $11.6 million in dividends to its owners in addition to investing $1.5 million in communities where it does business

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Libro Credit Union’s Kym Riley, Commercial Account Manager for Amherstburg & Belle River (left) and Carolyn Vsetula, Regional Agricultural & Commercial Manager — Essex Kent/Coach, pay a visit to the 441 Notre Dame Street, Belle River branch. Libro “Coaches” offer an inclusive, forward-thinking approach to banking that helps clients achieve a prosperous future.

Photo by Rod Denis.

through a series of grants, sponsorships and scholarships administered by its Prosperity Fund initiative.

Awards and grants delivered by Libro range from $5,000 to $100,000, according to Vsetula.

She also proudly indicates, “All of our profits are re-invested in the communities where we do business.”

Kym Riley, a Commercial Account Manager responsible for branches in Amherstburg and Belle River agrees and mentions, “The main difference between us and other financial institutions, including other credit unions, is that we provide these dividends to our owners and we invest

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100% of our profits back into people and organizations in local communities across Southwestern Ontario.”

Riley adds, “We stand by our owners and we believe in their businesses and we work hard to help them succeed.”

With a head office in London, Vsetula says Libro is able to offer a quick turnaround when it comes to making financial decisions affecting its owners and their personal and business accounts.

“We offer a personal touch which is something you don’t always get from banks,” says Vsetula. “As a result of being 100% local, all our approvals are made from our London office.”

Libro’s employees are also part of the credit union’s ownership group and therefore have a vested interest in the company’s success.

Employees are encouraged to invest their time in volunteering and working with local organizations, which include the United Way, W.E. Care for Kids, business improvement groups across the region and community centres.

“We are dedicated to helping people in the communities we serve and I am proud to be part of an organization that follows through on that pledge,” Riley expresses.

As a result of treating its employees like “owners,” investing heavily in training, rewarding their success and making them part of any decision-making process, the credit union has limited employee turnover, according to Vsetula.

Libro’s workplace culture encourages its employees to be flexible, innovative, people-focused, empowered, pro-active in helping its “owners,” (clients) teamoriented, co-operative, respectful and to always seek continuous improvement in dealing with owners across many sectors.

For more information, visit: Libro.ca.

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