Biz X magazine April 2024

$3.50

What’s So Special About April? It’s National Volunteer Week; National Organ And Tissue Donation Awareness Week And National Oral Health Month

Meet The Models For The Sixth Annual Celebrity Men Fashion Event Benefitting The Kidney Foundation Of Canada THE PARENTING BIZ Amazing Kids In The Community; Score! Money Saving Tips To Help Keep Your Kids In Sports PLUS Helena Ventrella Design Limited; Bubby’s Plumbing; Azzurri Design & Build Inc.; Timberwolf Forest Products; Cake Cosmetix; Chapter Two Brewing Company and more!

Home Sweet Home

Whether you are building your dream home, choosing from a specific style in a residential development, or investing in a condominium, townhome or tiny home, when you build or buy new, you get exactly what you want and need! We profile five companies — including Nor-Built Construction, represented by Norbert Bolger, on a job site in Amherstburg — who are ready to assist you on selecting the best choice for your new home. PAGE 18

4 Funny Stuff

5 From The Publisher: Fashion Shows & Music Concerts

7 Corporate Profile: The 35th Milestone Anniversary Of Timberwolf Forest Products Inc.

8 Front Lines

10 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Organ Donation April is Be A Donor month across Ontario to help raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donations. To honour this special month, columnist Joe McParland features two local men, Dennis Segatto and Chris Domenicucci. Both have had multiple organ transplantations, which have provided them with renewed leases on life!

10 Motivational Quotes With Danny

12 Newsflash

14 Belle Vivante: Sip On Sunshine With A Brew (Or Two!)

Tracey Harding and Certified Cicerone brewer Michael Beaudoin of Chapter Two Brewing Company (in left photo by the other half of our Belle Vivante team, Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh) recently enjoyed a lively chat about the beer scene in Windsor. During this interview, the sunshine beamed down on the patio and filled them with joy and laughter, just like the fresh brews. Beaudoin has created a line-up of beer with undeniable quality, and the brewery is home to a monthly vinyl swap event and also close to a luxury consignment shop of fine furniture and home décor items. Curious to know more about all? Then just turn the page . . .

16 Food For Thought: The New Cake Cosmetix

27 Corporate Profile: Azzurri Design & Build Inc.

29 XX Files: Interior Designer Helena Ventrella

30 The Parenting Biz: Financial Programs So All Kids Can Play And How Families Can Save Money On Youth Sports

33 Guest Column: Suggestions To Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy, Happy, And Cavity Free

34 Kids In The Community

The Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers is the highest honour bestowed by the province for young people between the ages of 15 and 24, in recognition of outstanding contributions through volunteering in their communities and throughout the province. And one amazing teenager from Windsor received a medal . . . Maya Mikhael! As well, only one athlete from Windsor Essex qualified for the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Calgary, February 27 to March 2, 2024. So how did skater Breanna Williams do? Let’s meet Breanna and Maya now and get more details on these two amazing kids!

(Middle photo of Maya Mikhael at her last school board meeting as student trustee for the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board in June 2024, courtesy of Adrian Yonan, co-trustee)

36 Healthy Habits To Tackle The Stress Of Being A Parent

38 Mini Feature: The Strength Of Volunteering, Defining The Impact Of Social Engagement

National Volunteer Week takes place in Canada from April 14 to 20, 2024, so this issue is the perfect time to introduce our readers to three organizations where volunteers are essential. One in particular is the Alzheimer Society Of Windsor & Essex County. Dedicated volunteer, Jack Ramieri (top right photo courtesy of the Alzheimer Society) is Quizmaster and Host of the annual Battle of the Brains. It takes a team of 40 volunteers to put on the society’s biggest fundraiser every January. Learn how you can volunteer for a local non-profit organization as well.

40 SWOBEN Success Stories

42 Biz Of The Month: Windsor Based Bubby’s Plumbing

INDIVIDUAL/BUSINESS PICTURED: Norbert Bolger, President of Nor-Built Construction, 1000 Alma Street, Amherstburg (Nor-Built.com)

LOCATION: The job site of one of Nor-Built Construction’s new builds,

Dog

Cat Hair Is A Big Part Of A

On

“Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes” are just a few of baby Hazel’s favourite things.

“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.”

Jack

Maxwell

David Clark

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

Danny Gautama

Andrea Grimes

Colin Grimmond

Dave Halliday

Tracey Harding

Joe McParland

Jim Murphy

Victoria Rose

Rose City Politics Panelists

Rebecca Wright

Kali’s cozy version of purr-adise.

EFun Events For All

By Deborah Jones

vent season has begun!

It all starts in April with the 40th annual Windsor Home & Garden Show, April 5 to 7 at Central Park Athletics, then the 31st annual St. Clair College Alumni of Distinction Awards on April 13 (refer to my March column to learn more), and of course there are always lots of sporting events, concerts, trade shows and more from area charities and organizations planned.

On our websites: BizXmagazine.com and InPlaymagazine.com you can view an updated calendar of things happening in the area.

Here, in the April print and digital editions, you can also read up on National Oral Health Month; National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week April 21 to 27 and National Volunteer Week April 14 to 20

For my column here now, I focus on three events that Biz X sponsors in May.

First up is the Windsor Classic Chorale presentation of Vox Femina, celebrating women in the choral arts on Saturday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Salvation Army South-Windsor Citadel.

From Hildegard de Bingen in the 12th century through to the present day, women have made a significant contribution to choral music, which has often been overlooked.

In support of the women behind these compositions and their contributions, the Windsor Classic Chorale is proud to present a program of entirely female composers.

General admission is $25 and there is a student rate of $15. The citadel is located at 1201 Grand Marais Road West and a reception follows the performance.

You can get your tickets on the website: WindsorClassicChorale.org/vox-femina.

Our second sponsored event is the sixth annual Celebrity Men Fashion Event, for The Kidney Foundation of Canada,

on Thursday, May 23 at Formula First Collision centre, 9420 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor.

The goal is to raise $25,000 to contribute to programs and services for people living with kidney disease, and kidney-related research.

The 12 models for this special fundraiser were announced at a media event in early March, held at Formula First Collision centre.

Joe McParland, Photojournalist for Biz X magazine, is one of the models on the star-studded list that includes: Cristian Agostini, General Manager of Formula First Collision; Zack Kassian, former NHL player; from Windsor Regional Hospital — Brent Vicary, Director of Renal Program and Derek Soong, Renal Pharmacist; Jarrett Pike, kidney transplant donor; Ian McPhee, University of Windsor Renal Nursing student; Dentist Dr. Greg Luvisotto of Wyandotte Dental Centre; Joe Barile, Vice President, Regulatory and Corporate Affairs at Essex Power Lines; and from Bell Media — Jonny Parks (93.9 Virgin Radio Host), Dan MacDonald (CKLW AM800 Radio Host) and Sanjay Maru (CTV News Windsor Reporter).

Masters of Ceremonies Chris Byrne, Pure Country 89 Radio Host (Bell Media) and local actress Michelle Mainwaring, were also in attendance at the media launch

on March 6 and are currently fine tuning the script for the big show.

The May event begins at 6:30 p.m. with delicious hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, an opportunity to win a chest full of wine

and other spirits, a Photo Booth sponsored by Biz X and more!

The fashion portion of the evening gets underway at 8 p.m. with the models wearing the latest styles from Collins Formal Wear,

At Ease Men’s Apparel and The Suit Shop Co. Ltd.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: Kidney.ca/events.

Our final profiled sponsored event is the Windsor Jazz Concert Series (WJCS) 2nd Order of Canada/Juno Award Spotlight with Toronto bassist Dave Young on Sunday, May 26 at 2:30 p.m. at Mackenzie Hall, 3277 Sandwich Street.

Young is one of the all-time greats of Canadian jazz, recognized as an icon by fans and fellow musicians.

He is especially known for his work with pianist Oscar Peterson over a 35 year period, touring the world and recording, and he has worked with many of the greats of jazz, including Clark Terry, Cedar Walton, Gary Burton, Zoot Sims, Tommy Flanagan and more.

For the May 26 WJCS concert Young performs with Windsorite Michael Karloff (piano) and Detroiters Matt Lorusso (guitar) and Kasan Belgrave (sax).

Advance tickets are $35 and available by emailing wjcs.inc@gmail.com.

Find further details on their website: WindsorJazzConcertSeries.com.

We hope to see you at one — if not, all three events listed here — and many more in the coming months!

The Windsor & District Chapter of the Kidney Foundation of Canada recently revealed 12 models for its upcoming Celebrity Men Fashion Event. Michelle Mainwaring (local actress and Master of Ceremonies) is pictured with models (starting on the left): Cristian Agostini, Joe Barile, Joe McParland, Sanjay Maru, Brent Vicary, Derek Soong, and Jarrett Pike. Unable to attend the March press conference were: Zack Kassian, Ian McPhee, Dr. Greg Luvisotto, Jonny Parks and Dan MacDonald.

Photo by Tina Huynh.

Timberwolf Forest Products Inc.

Celebrates Quality, Reliability & Personalized Service For 35 Years And Counting

By Rebecca Wright Photos courtesy of Kaitlyn Collins

At Timberwolf Forest Products, Owners

Tom and Sue Manherz believe in the power of pallets to move the world.

For more than 35 years, they’ve been dedicated to accommodating their customers’ pallets and crating needs, regardless of size, weight or destination.

At Timberwolf, their mission has always been clear, “To deliver the highest level of service and quality products at a fair price.”

Through years of experience and unwavering commitment, Timberwolf has earned the trust and loyalty of its customers, who rely on their goods to be transported safely and efficiently. Timberwolf currently services from the Port of Hamilton to mid-Michigan.

With the help of Tom’s dad who had just retired from his own cabinetry business, Timberwolf began in 1989 in west Windsor.

In 1994, with the need for more space, Timberwolf moved to Oldcastle and continued to grow. With the help of Tom’s wife Sue and their son Jarrod — who will be carrying on the legacy — what started with one building grew by purchasing adjacent properties over the next 10 years, totalling 2.5 acres.

By 2008 Timberwolf outgrew their property and moved to a 25-acre property in Amherstburg where they are still located today.

“From 2008 until now, we have expanded an additional 28 acres and 28,500 square feet of manufacturing facilities,” notes Tom. “Today, Timberwolf has 35 employees and is also home to Timberwolf’s sister company, Wolfhead Distillery.”

The company’s services primarily revolve around custom pallets, but also include recycled pallets, manufacturing, crating and

a specialized division for storing and repairing whisky barrels.

In addition, they buy and sell hard and soft wood and cut wood to exact specifications, ensuring precision and efficiency in meeting customer requirements.

If you’ve ever been to Wolfhead Distillery, you’ll notice that the property is surrounded by barrels. Timberwolf’s barrel division is unique, specializing in storing and repairing over 50,000 whisky barrels for national brands, along with selling no-longer-useable barrels to the public.

The Manherz family is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company has a strong focus on recycled pallets.

“With over 100 million pallets ending up in landfills each year, it’s clear that action was needed to address this issue,” Tom states. “Our pallet recycling initiative not only helps reduce waste, but also provides a cost-effective solution for customers involved in one-way shipping.”

He adds that they go beyond recycling by specializing in pallet remanufacturing. This involves transforming unpopular pallet sizes into more commonly used ones, thus prolonging their lifespan.

“It’s a strategic approach that benefits both our customers and the environment,” he explains, noting they have 90,000 recycled pallets on site.

However, their commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there. At Timberwolf, they ensure that all of their waste is utilized to its fullest extent.

“For instance, our sawdust is sold to local farmers who use it as animal bedding and for various agricultural purposes,” Tom points out. “Additionally, our unusable barrels are sold to the public for crafting and repurposing projects. Overall, our efforts in recycling and waste utilization align with our broader mission to operate in an environmentally conscious manner while providing value to our customers and communities.”

In 1989 Tom stumbled upon an opportunity to turn timber scraps into treasure — pallets to be exact. And he adds that their success certainly wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of their hardworking staff.

“Their commitment and contributions have been the cornerstone of our success, and we’re incredibly grateful for their unwavering support,” he expresses.

As an exciting venture that has become a local hot spot in the area, Timberwolf Owners Tom and Sue, along with Larry Girard, opened Wolfhead Distillery in 2016. This all came to be when they decided to shift the focus from a “mill (lumber) to a still,” marking what he says was the opening of the first craft distillery in Windsor Essex since Prohibition.

“Interestingly, this isn’t the first instance of such a transition in Amherstburg’s history,” Tom notes. “In 1861, John McLeod opened the first sawmill and a distillery. Shortly after Hiram Walker purchased John’s distillery.”

Looking back on Timberwolf’s 35-year journey in business, Tom, Sue and Jarrod mention they couldn’t have done it all these years without their loyal customers, with whom they have forged strong relationships.

FRONTLINES

Join In The Celebrations For 150 Years Of Leamington’s Rich Heritage And Dynamic Future

The Municipality of Leamington is proud to announce its 150th anniversary celebration, marking a century and a half of community, culture, and progress.

This year-long festivity will feature an array of events, including historical exhibits, vibrant night markets and an exciting concert series, reflecting Leamington’s rich heritage and dynamic future.

In a community-driven initiative, the 150th Anniversary Committee — led by John Moran, former President of The Bank Theatre — invites local businesses and individuals to contribute to this historic celebration by sponsoring events.

This collaboration symbolizes the unity and strength of Leamington’s community, offering a unique opportunity for sponsors to support and engage with the town’s vibrant culture and heritage.

Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, expresses her gratitude towards the community partners and states: “This milestone is not only a reflection of our municipality’s enduring legacy, but also a

testament to the spirit of collaboration and community that defines Leamington. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our community partners, under the leadership of John Moran and the 150th Anniversary Committee, for spearheading these celebrations. Their dedication ensures that Leamington’s anniversary is not just a reflection of our past, but a celebration of our future.”

Last month the municipality revealed the official logo (see graphic on this page) for the anniversary celebrations, after 552 votes were cast by residents with the winning logo securing 318 votes.

“We are grateful to everyone who participated in the voting process,” comments MacDonald. “This logo is not just a design; it’s a reflection of our municipality’s journey, its rich agricultural roots, its beautiful natural landscapes, and the vibrant community that calls Leamington home.”

The selected logo is a mosaic of the unique features and stories of Leamington represented by: The Water (its location along the shores of Lake Erie and the municipality’s

deep connection with the lake’s natural beauty and resources);

The Green Plant (a nod to their rich agricultural heritage, from tobacco and tomatoes to greenhouse products and the burgeoning cannabis sector); The Monarch Butterfly (symbolizing the beauty and natural wonder of migration that Leamington witnesses and shares with the world each year); and The Birds (representing the annual migration and the influx of tourists drawn by Leamington’s natural beauty and warm hospitality).

The chosen logo will be prominently featured on a range of merchandise, including shirts and other commemorative items, allowing everyone to carry a piece of Leamington’s heritage with them.

For more information on becoming a sponsor, or to get involved with the 150th Anniversary celebrations, please email: leamington150@gmail.com.

To keep up to date on all upcoming events, check: Leamington.ca/150.

FRONTLINES

New Tech Report Outlines Local Resources, Educational Opportunities, And Tech Businesses/Organizations In Windsor Essex

Workforce WindsorEssex released a report in mid-March — The State of Tech: Insights into the Tech Sector in Windsor Essex — identifying local resources for tech workers addressing the tech brain drain that has led to the relocation of local tech talent.

“Windsor Essex’s tech sector has experienced tremendous growth and expansion over the past few years, and we are excited to see the continued success of our local tech companies,” states Kal Fakhreddin, Project Coordinator & Research Analyst, Workforce WindsorEssex. “We have a wealth of talent in the region, and need to work further to retain these workers. The State of Tech report provides recommendations that can help education, business, tech workers, and more.”

This new report highlights the impact and vitality of the tech sector in Windsor Essex.

Tech’s importance to manufacturing and agriculture, the two largest sectors in the region, continues to grow. By demonstrating the expansive influence of the local tech industry, from education to employment,

the region can encourage further investments, keep tech workers local, and attract new tech talent to further support the industry.

Yvonne Pilon, President and CEO of WEtech Alliance adds: “As we review this report, it’s crucial to acknowledge the pivotal role of technology in driving economic growth and enhancing our competitive edge on the global stage. The digital economy’s expanding influence across social, environmental, and cultural spheres further emphasizes the need to embrace and prioritize our tech sector.”

Windsor Essex’s tech job growth has outpaced the national average by 3%, demonstrating its elevated rise. However, the local median salary is nearly $10,000 less than the national median salary, making it difficult to retain talent in an increasingly interconnected world in which tech workers are globally sought after.

On the other hand, tech employers’ benefit from operating within a labour market where wages are currently below the national average, providing them with a competitive edge in terms of operational costs.

To retain top talent and foster a thriving tech ecosystem with junior, mid-level, and experienced tech workers, businesses must acknowledge the heightened demand for skilled professionals and be prepared to offer competitive wages commensurate with national industry standards.

By recognizing the relationship between compensation and talent retention, Windsor Essex can solidify its position as a hub for innovation and growth, ensuring mutual success for both employers and employees in the tech sector.

Windsor Essex’s tech sector has been experiencing significant growth for over a decade. While leading innovation and exemplary educational programs have propelled the region toward a thriving tech industry, lower-than-average wages and the rise of remote work have contributed to a considerable tech brain drain in which local talent is relocating to other regions for tech employment.

You can view the report at: Workforce WindsorEssex.com/state-of-tech.

Be A Donor In April . . . Give The Gift Of Life

By Joe McParland

April is Be A Donor month across Ontario to help raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donation.

The month-long awareness campaign concludes with the Canada-wide National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, from April 21 to 27, 2024, to get the word out that one organ donor can help save eight lives, and one tissue donor helps 75 people.

Ontario Health’s Trillium Gift of Life Network (GiftOfLife.on.ca/en) handles delivering and coordinating organ and tissue donation and transplantation services across the province.

They plan, promote, and support all health care and allied professionals, advocates, and the Ontario public, in saving the lives of Ontarians waiting for a life-saving transplant.

Sadly, the Windsor region needs to step up its game with respect to organ donation.

Motivational Quotes

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

Out of 170 Ontario communities, Windsor ranks 153rd with 86,658 registered donors, or 32% of a possible 268,637 eligible donors (16 years of age and an OHIP card holder).

In 2013, the family of Dennis Segatto — including his wife Niva and their daughter Bianca founded the Windsor-Essex Gift of Life Association to help increase Windsor’s registered organ and tissue donation numbers. (To learn more view: BeADonor.ca/campaign/wegiftoflife.)

Today, Niva is still the Chair of the organization, which has seen their registered donor base gradually increase from 18% of registered donors in 2013 (41,621 registered donors) to our current numbers. However, more work still needs to be done. Their community outreach is literally saving lives.

As a multi-kidney transplant recipient, Dennis has been a strong and enthusiastic advocate promoting organ and tissue

“Optimism enables us to do more, accomplish things and stay consistent. We feel much happier and less stressed. A positive person will notice everything improves in every area of their life. So, do what you have to do to be where you need to be. But do it optimistically.”

donation in the Windsor area and beyond, for the past 45 years.

Since his first of three kidney transplants in 1979, he has been a local hero and public face for organ and tissue donation.

With his last transplant in 1994, Dennis describes his 45 years as: “An amazing journey and a brand-new lease on life.”

In July 2015, this youthful looking sexagenarian climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with two local friends to raise awareness on organ and tissue donation, and then created a documentary film following their journey.

“I needed to promote organ transplantation and healthy living, and that there is a normal life after transplants,” he expresses.

As a result of all his hard work, Dennis was presented the 2018 Advocate In Action Award by Trillium Gift of Life Network for his 40 years of service promoting organ and tissue donor awareness.

Now let’s meet 39-year-old Chris Domenicucci (known as Dom), from Belle River. Like Dennis, he is a multiple organ transplant recipient, having received two liver transplants since the age of 17.

Dom remembers as far back as four years of age that: “I always had trouble with my bowels. I was always constipated and had the roughest time having a bowel movement. It would be days or even weeks before I could pass anything no matter how much I tried. The most frustrating part of it all was when my parents took me to see the doctor about it. The only thing the doctor said was that I needed to stop being ‘lazy’ and ‘try to go every day.’ There was no checkup, no tests . . . nothing.”

He has since realized he was living with the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

His grade school years were marked with incidents of embarrassment and confusion. Things settled down during his first two years of high school, but by grade 11 he had dropped weight and was jaundiced.

Finally, through blood work and a liver biopsy, Dom was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

The Segatto family at the 2019 Toronto Marathon, from left: Niva, Bianca and Dennis. Dennis is nattily attired in his World Transplant Games 2019 jacket, held in NewcastleGateshead, UK. Photo courtesy of the Segatto family.

(PSC), a disease of the bile ducts which carry the digestive liquid bile from the liver to the small intestine. In PSC, inflammation causes scars within the bile ducts. These scars make the ducts hard and narrow and gradually cause serious liver damage.

At age 19, his Crohn’s disease was treated through trips to University Hospital in London for Remicade IVs every four weeks. Dom’s liver swelled up and pressed against other organs creating a sensation of a heart attack. It caused his lungs to become constricted, and he experienced laboured breathing, requiring him to use oxygen at home. All of this and pain meds (OxyContin) to try and keep him comfortable, if not alive.

By December he was designated “high priority” needing a liver transplant while waiting at University Hospital, which he successfully received December 4, 2008.

There were a few related medical issues in the ensuing years, but Dom was back to school, involved in local theatre, and reclaiming his “normal” life.

Then, in late 2017, organ rejection occurred. This did not stop the feisty and determined Dom. In his words: “this disease was not going to take me out!”

On February 22, 2018 he received his second successful liver transplant and today his blood work is great, he’s back to working, going to the gym, and totally celebrating, getting “my second lease on life.”

These two heroic Windsor men, Dennis and Dom, share their compelling life journeys of organ transplantation in the hopes of underscoring the importance of organ and tissue donation.

During Be A Donor Month, please become a registered organ donor online at: BeADonor.ca.

You can also visit the Windsor-Essex Gift of Life Association at Devonshire Mall during National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week on April 27 and register onsite. Your decision to be a donor offers the opportunity of life for

the nearly 1,200 Ontarians currently waiting for an organ transplant.

And finally, the 10th National Transplant Games take place August 3 to 9, 2024 at Carleton University in Ottawa. Participants include transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, and supporters.

For more information, visit their website: CanadianTransplant.com/2024-cta-games.

A Domenicucci family picture from 20 years ago of Chris (Dom) and his mother Nancy before his liver transplantations. Photo courtesy of the Dom family.

A recent picture of Dom after his liver transplantations. Photo courtesy of Dana Marie Photography.

NEWSFLASH

THE RUNDOWN

Funding applications for the May Court Club of Windsor grant are now available to organizations that support child/youth mental or physical health. Their dedicated team is proud and pleased to be able to offer funding to organizations in the Windsor and Essex County area through an application process. Their mission is simple: to support organizations in our community that focus on children’s mental and physical health. They want frontline workers to continue to use their expertise to make a difference for all children and youth. Last year, over $50,000 was donated to child and youth programs in our area! May Court President Sharon Pyke notes: “The process of accepting applications from organizations that work with children and then being able to grant them funding is one of the most gratifying things that we do as a club. Our members are incredibly dedicated to raising these monies to make a positive difference in our community. We encourage organizations to review our website to apply for these hard-earned funds.” The funding application is on their website: WindsorMayCourt.com. Completed applications (with a deadline of April 15, 2024) can be submitted using the button on the website, or by emailing: vicepres.maycourt@gmail.com. The May Court Club of Windsor is celebrating its 90th year of serving the community and is a registered charitable organization. Revenue is generated by hosting unique fundraising events and by offering gently used (and sometimes new) clothing, shoes, and housewares, at the May Court Club Shoppe, 1122 Wyandotte Street East

in Windsor. Its members and volunteers kindly donate their time and talents. The May Court Club of Windsor is also the 2023 Biz X Award winner for Exceptional Social Enterprise.

Windsor Soccer Club (Windsor SC) proudly announces its latest achievement in becoming a Quality Soccer Provider recognized by Canada Soccer. Under the program, Windsor SC proved that it meets Canada Soccer’s expectation that “all member organizations provide a developmentally appropriate, safe, enjoyable, accessible, inclusive and welcoming playing environment for their participants.” By meeting and exceeding Canada Soccer’s benchmarks, Windsor SC has demonstrated its dedication to providing high-quality coaching, player development, and administrative practices. The club is one of only a few leagues in Windsor Essex to achieve this designation.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by Ontario Soccer and Canada Soccer,” states Windsor SC Club President Paul Bortolo. “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team, from coaches and players to volunteers and administrators. It reinforces our mission to foster a love for soccer while promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and skill development within our community.” Windsor SC continues its journey of excellence in soccer development with its 42nd season kicking off this spring. Registration is open until April 15 for youth ages four to 18, and families can get more information about the schedule on: WindsorSoccerClub.com for details.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Little Tomato Children’s Theatre (LTCT) presents Annie Jr., April 19 to 21, 2024 at Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School, 120 Ellison Avenue in Leamington. This show features an amazingly talented cast of children from all over Leamington, Kingsville, Wheatley, Windsor Essex, and Kent counties, ranging in ages from seven to 18. The dedicated cast has been busy practicing since October of last year, rehearsing twice weekly. Director, Ruth Brown; Music Director, Nola McQueen, and Choreographer, Melissa Mack, along with a team of volunteers, have come together once again to ensure that these Little Tomatoes experience the magic of theatre. LTCT President and producer, Sharon Clifford, along with the LTCT Board of Directors, continue to do their utmost to fulfill the company’s mission statement of providing “Theatre for Children BY Children”. Several long-time Little Tomatoes, as well as some new ones, have leading roles this year. Annie will be portrayed by Hannah Dick, with understudy Grace Burke, with the role of the loveable Daddy Warbucks played by Tristan Braun. The role of Grace, who is always calm, cool, and put-together, is shared by Arielle Friesen and Ella Rutgers, joined by Victoria Braun as the mean-spirited Miss Hannigan. Other favourite characters include Maeve Burke as the adorable Molly, Jane Larson and Emily Adjin as Rooster, and Molly

Diemer and Shaevon Coates as Lily. And, how could we forget Annie’s canine friend Sandy, played by Paddington! Annie Jr. is presented through special arrangements, with and all authorized materials supplied by Music Theatre International, New York, NY ( MTIshows.com) Performances are held: Friday, April 19 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, April 21 at 2 p.m. General Admission is $20 with children 12 and under able to attend for $10. For tickets please email: littletomatotix@gmail.com. Tickets are also available at the door. Further questions? Find the answers on the website: LittleTomatochildr.wixsite.com/ ltctwebsite and on: Facebook.com/ LittleTomatoChildrensTheatre.

Now let’s taco ’bout another fun event — The Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation (WECAF) presents 5/5 on the Drive, celebrating Cinco de Mayo in style, to benefit programs at the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS). Starting at 1 p.m. the afternoon of Sunday, May 5, 2024 at the J.P. Wiser’s Experience Centre (2072 Riverside Drive East), guests can enjoy a culinary experience of Mexican and Canadian cuisine, accompanied by a complimentary signature drink. There is also going to be Dream Pinata Raffle and a draw for a travel voucher for two to Mexico! Setting the mood to all these festivities, the air will be filled with the Latin Jazz sounds of Detroit’s critically acclaimed and award-winning Tumbao Bravo. The winner of the 2005, 2007 and 2013 Detroit Music Awards for Best Jazz Recording and Best World Music Band, this combo has performed at all the major Michigan jazz/music festivals. 5/5 on the Drive is sponsored by MisterHQ Group, Fortis Group, and Integrity Tool and Mold. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased at: WECAF.on.ca.

If your business or non-profit organization has good news to share with our readers and is located in Windsor Essex and/or Chatham Kent, please submit details on: BizXmagazine.com/contact-biz-x. We will then provide further instructions on how you can get your press release to us and you may see it published here in an upcoming edition!

Feel Right At Home With Chapter Two Brewing Company, A Vinyl Swap & Timeless Treasures

Story And Photos By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh And Tracey Harding

After hearing Radio Host Dan MacDonald of AM800 CKLW, mention about a monthly record swap at a local brewery, we decided to check it out and enjoy a few flights of beer at the same time.

Owner and General Manager, Cheryl Watson is currently celebrating the six year anniversary of the Chapter Two Brewing Company, which opened in February 2018. It’s located between the Walkerville area and Ford City at 2345 Edna Street in Windsor.

The weather in early March was so great when we visited, we were able to start out on the patio and watch the crowd flow into the industrial inspired interior. We recognized some avid record collectors, such as Syx Langemann who collaborated on a vinyl documentary called Spinning Stories

Josh Jeffrey and friends host the Vinyl Collector Buy/Sell/Swap from 1 to 5 p.m. on the first Sunday of every month at Chapter Two. (Get further details on social media: Facebook.com/groups/266166942456458).

MacDonald was also in attendance and shared this with us: “It is such a great place to come out and find that rare album, have a few beers, meet people and get into great conversations about music.”

Chapter Two has a “Can Shop” so you can take home your favourite brews and also some great t-shirts featuring them.

In addition, there are some local wines and ciders available as well as food (including OG Pizza, Walkerville Ford City).

The brewery also has a lot of activities and events to enjoy, like the Record Swap previously mentioned, Wednesday Wisdom Trivia, Comedy Night, Music Nights, First Drafts Spoken Word, Euchre, Crokinole and Cornhole Leagues, a Mug Club, and an area you can book private events in, with up to 150 total seats.

Certified Cicerone and Head Brewer Michael Beaudoin stopped to talk to us about his passion — creating small batch craft beer in the traditional style. He has a variety of experience, from home brews to commercial breweries, including the Walkerville Brewery

We had a lively discussion about naming beers and our favourite travel tastings.

“Traditional styles just don’t get the love they deserve, I like to focus on creating the best traditional beers and then experimenting to create interesting options,” explains Beaudoin.

Here is a quick rundown of what we sampled . . .

Ford City Cream Ale: The first tasting in our beer flight is perfect for summer. It’s a light traditional ale with light bitters and hops and very refreshing. It’s easy on the palette and great for someone who does not like strong beer.

C2 Anniversary Pale Ale: Commemorating Chapter Two’s sixth anniversary, you can taste the hops with rye and citrus notes of pomegranate and lime with a savoury tartness. This is Colley-Vegh’s favourite. Dunkel: This beer contains noble hops, which is native to the German style brewing and definitely makes you want to bring

out the lederhosen. It’s nutty, malty freshly baked bread and the colour comes from the roasted hops.

Danger Bird: Hang Ten with this West Coat IPA, (Harding’s favourite). This complex mix of tropical and tart fruits give it a citrus finish, slightly bitter, and full of hops.

With such a friendly staff, so many great activities and amazing craft beer, we definitely will be back and hope Biz X readers can check out the brewery and the vinyl swap events as well. (To learn more about the beers, upcoming events and/or to book your own event there, visit: ChapterTwoBrewing.com).

But our afternoon out is not finished just quite yet! After quenching our thirst, we stopped by the multi-award-winning consignment shop — Timeless Treasures — on a special after hours invite to see owner Heather Goodwin-Ashton in Old Walkerville, at 1747 Wyandotte Street East.

“My favourite part of Timeless Treasures is dressing the windows and creating vignettes so people can imagine the items in their own home,” states Goodwin-Ashton “I love knowing I am doing my part making sure that pre-loved collectibles don’t end up in landfills. We are eco-friendly and our customers get to help save the planet by recycling.”

This is definitely one of our favourite stores, they carry everything from antiques, mid-century modern, shabby chic, classic interiors and incredible decorative finds.

Bartenders Mikaela and Jayce are ready to serve you a few pints while you chat with your friends or enjoy the local entertainment, inside the industrial-inspired all brick décor and high ceilings, at Chapter Two Brewing Company.

The flight of beer at Chapter Two Brewing Company, chosen by our two Belle Vivantes to sample.

AM800 CKLW Radio Host and vinyl aficionado, Dan MacDonald (left) poses with Syx Langemann. The Spinning Stories documentary by Langemann explores what inspires people to collect vinyl and reminisces with collectors about the albums they purchase.

The two of us have never left this store empty-handed (the prices are amazing).

It truly is a “treasure” hunt and when you are finished with an item you can consign it, making it “timeless.”

You never know where to look there as there are so many interesting items calling out for your attention, including the intriguing, artistic window displays.

During this shopping trip we picked up a pillow to go with a chair, also purchased from there, and some vintage Hiram Walker glasses, ideal for our annual retro cocktail party. When our husbands ask what we were doing or what the credit card charges are for we will honestly tell them, we were out helping save the planet!

For information on consignment or to learn the shop’s hours of operation, refer to: Facebook.com/TimelessTreasuresWindsor.

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

has travelled to over 50 countries exploring what the world has to offer in food, wine, music, art, and fashion. She is a community leader, journalist, business owner, music manager, former educator, Chief Communications Officer, and Athena Award recipient. Tracey Harding has deep roots in southwestern Ontario, but has wined, dined and lived in many countries. She has worked in fashion, real estate/décor, hospitality and food service/tour industries and is an award-winning amateur cook and a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 1 Sommelier.

(left)

Syx Langemann (left) of Spinning Stories and Josh Jeffrey, founder of the monthly Vinyl Collector Buy/Sell/ Swap, smile for the camera at the March 3 event.

An Artist Chair and unique tapestry pillow sure to be a “Timeless Treasure”.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Cake Cosmetix

3395

Howard Avenue, Unit 12, Windsor

By David Clark

Whether you’re a serious baker or an amateur enthusiast, Cake Cosmetix is the place to be when you’re shopping for gourmet baking supplies!

Stocked full — both in store and online — they offer baking supplies and confectionary items to give your cake the WOW factor.

As a baking supply and décor shop, Cake Cosmetix caters to the sweet treat community and has the tools to get you started baking, right up to the grand finale of your best made treat. Whereas they do make memorable sweets as well — this is not a bakery — but a supplier of those tools you need to bake.

They also carry other goodies and edibles, as you will discover.

According to Owner/Operator Shay Lewis: “This is the shop where many food artists converge. No matter what skill level they are at, they can come in and purchase products that visually enhance their treats and assist in elevating the overall deliciousness!”

The baking community has been eagerly waiting for a shop like Cake Cosmetix to open up, and to expand on the customer’s creativity for home bakers and vendors alike.

Having been a baker herself, Lewis realized the importance of having these high quality baking supplies ready for pickup, which

Photos courtesy of Cake Cosmetix

motivated her to step out of her comfort zone and go for it.

People are also crossing the border or going for a two hour drive to get these kinds of supplies. Now, these customers have easy access to all the items they need in person at Cake Cosmetix.

Some of the store’s favourites — the Yum Crumbs, Sweetapolita Sprinkles, Sprinx Glamorous Sprinkle Blends, and Colour Mill Oil Based Food Colourings — are the champs when it comes to building those sweet treats.

As for a brief history on how this all came to be, Lewis began baking and decorating cakes at the age of 14. Many years later, she created her own sprinkle brand called Sprinx by Cake Cosmetix that eventually led to a full time business idea.

She created an e-commerce site in November 2022 and also attended various pop-up shop markets last summer to sell her products. Lewis then made the jump

into the brick-and-mortar world and opened a storefront on December 15, 2023.

Since then, she has been fortunate to have connected with many great companies that now have a place inside the Cake Cosmetix storefront.

For that quick run to the store, locals have an extension of their home baking hobby here at Cake Cosmetix.

Lewis likes to chat with customers that come in and has found out that home bakers most often seem to buy things like cookie cutters, cake boxes and boards, edible glitter, vanilla buttercream and of course, sprinkles. These are the basics for a baker at any level.

Additionally, to keep the bakers more organized, they also have measuring spoons, sprinkle savers, mixer skirts, cookie books, icing bags and icing tips.

For the vendors and baking businesses, the popular items they stock include Colour Mill Oil Based Food Colouring, large bottles of Ann Clark Food Colouring Gels, Edible Food Pens and Cupcake Liners.

If you’re ever looking to support local,

Pictured inside her shop, Cake Cosmetix Owner Shay Lewis presents “The Sprinkle Wall” and the goodies to go with it.

check out the area businesses that have stocked Cake Cosmetix shelves with their spin on baking-themed products, accompanied by the proprietary Cake Cosmetix items.

Their big nine vendors include: A HOLE Lotta Donuts, Blooming Décor, Bubble Bake Shop, Cake Kit Company, Cottam Candy, Dazzling Décor With Destinee, Icing Accents, Pretty Little Party Co. and Yarn to the Moon.

A feast for your eyes and a luxurious taste, made in-house are the CheeseCakeCups, a great dessert after a good meal or even just for a snack attack!

Concerning the food items found at Cake Cosmetix, a few items that you should look into, include the Strawberry Shortcake Yum Crumbs dessert toppings that partner well with cakes, ice cream, donuts and cupcakes.

This cute package is the top selling product at the store and there are 10 different varieties.

Another special treat, tasting like a luxury dessert, are the CheeseCakeCups and

flavoured popcorn, both made in store and usually selling out quickly. Also, sweets to tickle your fancy, created at the shop, include the Chocolate Covered Strawberries and vanilla buttercream icing. The Cake Cosmetix Gold Glitzy Glitter is also proprietary and has become popular to mix in your drinks.

Lewis also creates special holiday BerryBoxes throughout the year. These are pre-made and loaded with chocolate covered strawberries and are available for custom orders as well.

Another favourite product is the festive spring strawberries, made with white chocolate laced with lemon Yum Crumbs and topped with Cake Cosmetix’s own Pastel Sprinx (sprinkles).

You can order your goods online (all products can be shipped Canada wide) if you can’t visit in person. For the in-store pickup option, view the business hours on the website: CakeCosmetix.ca.

“I believe what sets Cake Cosmetix apart from a big box store is specialty quality products and personal relationships,” Lewis expresses. “I stock up with items you wouldn’t find in the bigger stores in Windsor. You would usually have to ship them or travel far for these items. This is a shop where you can see and touch the products that you would regularly only see a photo of online before purchasing.”

Bite into bliss! These oh so irresistible strawberries are available at the shop all year round and made with decadent white chocolate and dosed in their Pastel Sprinx sprinkles and Yum Crumbs.

Lewis further explains: “Most importantly, Windsor Essex has a strong community for small business owners and we always try to support each other knowing the hardships and dedication we go through to achieve success. I have built many long-time friendships this way, so a lot of us would rather support each other than the huge chains. I am truly excited to meet and connect with so many more bakers that come through the doors at Cake Cosmetix!”

Watch for Lewis this spring at pop-up shops and hopefully at some big events in the region. And in the near future, she has plans to hold cake decorating classes at the shop.

See photos and other fun stuff on their social media: Instagram@cakecosmetix.

STORY By Dave Halliday

House For Sale . . . No Previous Owner

The Beauty Of A New Build Home Is Waiting For You

The housing crunch in our region is real; just ask anyone who has been out there hunting for their next home.

It can be exhausting as you trudge your way through endless open houses. Your weekends and weeknights are no longer about relaxing — they are about the search for a home that matches your needs, taste, price range, and location. Those are a lot of variables to say the least.

To make the process even more of a joy, there is always the prospect of multiple bidders.

So, there you are, three months into the process having submitted many unsuccessful offers on a variety of homes that “kind of” check off all the boxes for you.

What if there was another way? What if there were no other bidders, no endless showings, no apple pie air fresheners covering the smell of the current and previous occupants’ activities?

The purchase of a newly built or custombuilt home can take a lot of the frustration and uncertainty out of the home buying process.

There are multiple stand-alone lots and numerous large-scale developments in the area, and if the cost and location are favourable, what is stopping you from building a home that is entirely yours?

Talk about checking off all the boxes!

For many, the concept of stepping into the new build market can seem intimidating and we at Biz X totally get that. So we decided to bring a collection of industry experts into the discussion to better address your concerns.

Luckily for you, our local region is blessed to boast a wide collection of qualified professional builders who were more than happy to assist!

Perhaps It Is The Luxury And Exclusivity Of A Gated Community That You Seek

Let’s set the scene . . . cruising along at a leisurely pace in your new convertible you are enjoying the sunshine on another gorgeous June day in southwestern Ontario.

The drive along the water was relaxing, but not as relaxing as arriving home. You pull up to the entrance of your luxury community and the gates open in the way one would open their arms to provide a welcoming hug.

You are home and all is good!

Nor-Built Construction, located at 1000 Alma Street in Amherstburg (Norbuilt.com) has been in business for the past 36 years and its President Norbert Bolger (see photo on front cover) has 40 years of experience to draw upon in the local building industry.

The company provides services in Design and Build for custom homes, commercial, renovations, developments and accessible homes.

“I think one of the things that makes us unique in the local market is our personal up-close interaction with our clients,” comments Bolger. “We strive to achieve their wants and needs by tapping into our years of experience for the benefit of the client.”

Nor-Built Construction is currently developing a new secluded executive luxury community in Amherstburg.

“Just imagine driving through your wrought iron semi-gated entrance and following the road leading to your luxury home situated in a secluded community of unparalleled homes, away from the hectic outside world,” he describes. “The community of Brittany’s Gate offers you this rare opportunity to be one of the few owners of the 18 secluded luxury homes.”

Bolger continues by stating: “Your home

will be nestled among other discerning homeowners who also seek a ‘Community of Quiet Elegance’ while still being only minutes away from the needed amenities of life. The tree-lined backyards assure you of future privacy, as well, the limited number of site opportunities ensure traffic and congestion will never invade your secluded community.”

The company is hoping to start on Brittany’s Gate in 2024 — servicing late spring and building early summer.

“Your new home and your neighbours will be unique in that all homes will be architecturally designed with no two homes the same,” he notes. “Each will have the

So where in Windsor Essex or Chatham Kent is your brand new home going to be? Will you choose from a specific style in a residential subdivision, build your own dream home from the ground up or select a condominium, townhome or tiny home? The sky’s the limit! Photo courtesy of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography.

Picture driving with your family through the wrought iron gated entrance and following the road to your new luxury home, nested in Nor-Built Construction’s secluded community, Brittany’s Gate. Graphic courtesy of Nor-Built Construction.

owner’s own fingerprint, both in design and amenities. This means all clients will choose their own styles, when it comes to exterior finishes, paint colour, cabinet colours and styles, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and the home design itself.”

If this lifestyle is calling to you and your dreams, please contact Nor-Built Construction for further information and talk about the opportunity to be a resident in the community of Brittany’s Gate.

“We also are involved in other options in the area, such as clients’ custom-built 4-plexes in Amherstburg,” states Bolger. “We have completed duplexes here in Amherstburg at Meadowview and in Harrow at Hawksview. Given the current housing crunch, these options can be quite cost

effective and provide more units per acre.”

He adds: “We work with the best collection of vendors and suppliers that can be assembled. On our recent build of the Brentwood lottery home, found in Harrow this year, all our suppliers and vendors stepped up to the plate and donated time and materials to the build. We couldn’t be prouder of them all. So many to mention . . . let us just say from the ground up!”

Major Developers Providing Many Amazing Floor Plans For The New Home Market

One doesn’t have to venture too far in our region to see homes springing up in newly developed local subdivisions.

The benefits to a new development are many and go beyond the confines of the

walls of your new home build. The newly installed infrastructure feeding the fledgling community provides a level of assurance in services essential to the functionality and enjoyment of your home environment.

For the past 11 years NOC Development (NOCdevelopment.com) of Concord, Ontario, has been building communities across our province.

Currently, they’re quite active in Windsor and Essex County and Danna Wang, Director of Marketing, was very accommodating when asked to give our readers an idea of all they have going on, in the local housing market.

NOC is quite diverse in their local developments she indicates: “We focus on developing and building new homes and we have a few condo developments that we are currently working on with the City of Windsor right now. We hope to bring those units to market next year.”

The activity in our local communities doesn’t stop there for NOC, with current housing communities in the region in the works, such as Central Park in Windsor.

There are a total of 30 lots in the Central Park Windsor subdivision, in a fantastic location, however only about 10 homes are still available. This community is in the heart of the city and very accessible to multiple modes of transport and services.

A rendering of one of the 18 luxury homes inside Brittany’s Gate to be built by Nor-Built Construction in Amherstburg. Graphic courtesy of Nor-Built Construction.

These homes are available for purchase right now with completion time about nine to 12 months from purchase.

There are five different floor plans to choose from in Central Park: the SOHO, Tribeca, Astoria, Chelsea, and Manhattan. The homes range from 1,900 square feet to 3,100 square feet, two car garage, four bedrooms, 2.5 or 3.5 bathrooms.

Wang adds: “We have a model home on site. I’d highly recommend people view our model and experience the quality of our builds.”

NOC Development works with many local teams in the Windsor Essex region, such as JMD Design and D.C. McCloskey Engineering, on a lot of their projects.

Wang was also enthusiastic to touch upon some of the details of their other local developments in Essex County.

“Queens Valley Estates in Kingsville is a multi-phase development, where we are currently selling phase 2 of this community,” she informs Biz X. “The site is 10 minutes drive to downtown Kingsville and downtown Leamington and home buyers can enjoy both the boutique lifestyle and experience fabulous local restaurants and shops in Kingsville, as well as having access to the convenience of big box stores within a short drive to Leamington. We have a variety of ranch homes and two-storey detached home designs. All of these are three to four bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and two to three car garages. This community is perfect

The Chelsea model is another single detached home available in Central Park Windsor by NOC Development. It is a classic design; two-storey, two car garage, four bedroom, 3.5 bathroom, 2,590 square foot home. Graphic courtesy of NOC Development.

for families looking for more interior and exterior space at a great price point.”

Their other unique development is Bevel Line Towns in Leamington.

“We’ll be launching a townhome project this spring where home buyers can choose from two-storey or ranch style townhomes with two to three bedrooms,” announces Wang. “This scenic community is next to Erie Shores Golf & Country Club and is a short drive to the Leamington Marina This is the perfect location for those raising a family or downsizing.”

When it comes to flexibility in design, Wang notes their sales team works with clients to help them choose interior/exterior finishes — from engineering hardwood floors, bathroom tiles, premium kitchen cabinets, quartz or granite countertop, faucets, hardware and more.

Clients can even bring their interior design inspiration photos and they will do their best to create a similar look for their home.

“We focus on providing fantastic modern design and premium interior finishes, which are perfect for all families’ needs,” she concludes. “Whether you are first time home buyer, or move up buyers and looking to downsize, we have the home for you.”

Condo And Apartment Developments Are “Building Up” The New Home Choices

Condo living can be the ideal fit for those

looking to downsize and even simplify life.

The kids are grown and gone, and you have rooms that you can’t remember last entering. Perhaps you’ve been cutting an acre of grass once a week for years, and let’s not even get you started on snow shovelling . . . maybe you’re just someone who has never liked the idea of doing any of these things. No matter the reasoning, it is evident there is a large sector of our population who love the condo living lifestyle, and for good reason!

Horizons Group (HorizonsGroup.ca) was founded in 2018 and operates out of 4510 Rhodes Drive, Suite 520 in Windsor.

The company has assumed an active role in the development of condo and apartment options in the local area.

Wing-on Li, CEO and Executive Director of the Horizons Group, has over 30 years of experience in real estate development on a global scale, and he now offers that experience to the benefit of our local home seekers.

“Given decades of property development in the world’s second largest economy, coupled with the profound market knowledge of the local partners, we feel at home when it comes to real estate development in Windsor Essex,” declares Li. “We see a huge pent-up demand for attainable homes as the population grows at an unprecedented rate in the past 10 years, due to the historic low home prices that attract migrants from other

parts of Ontario, Canada, and other countries in the world, particularly South Asia, Middle East, and Eastern Europe.”

According to Li several factors have contributed to the uptick in local housing demand: “Nevertheless, the land supply remains stable and steady at relatively low costs. This is a perfect recipe for developers like us whose goal is to build homes for residents at price levels that they can afford.”

However, Li points out: “We are a new player in Windsor, and we don’t have a ‘land bank’ left by our forefathers like our competitors. It became imperative for us to build up a land reserve for our future developments and because of our strategic land acquisitions during the COVID pandemic outbreak, the Group is now in possession of over 200 acres of developable land in the settlement areas, in the Windsor Essex region. We plan to build at least 2,000 single family and multi-family homes by 2030.”

By May 2024, they should have completed 10 condo buildings with a total of 579 units and a subdivision for 140 homes, in Windsor and LaSalle.

What does he feel are the benefits to owning a condo over a traditional home?

Li elaborates: “Maintenance costs

An interior look at a 2,460 square foot home in Queens Valley Estates in Kingsville, by NOC Development. The Brooklyn model is a twostorey, single detached home with four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Photo courtesy of NOC Development.

A view into a completed loft at Laurier Horizons (7333 Meo Blvd., LaSalle) by Horizons Group. The lofts are 1,633 square feet and contain three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Tower A was finished January 2024 and Tower B is set to be completed May 2024. Photo courtesy of Atrium Real Estate Photography.

and property tax wise, a condo owner pays substantially less than that of a traditional home, and the condo owners also enjoy the benefits of a licenced condo manager who takes care of the common interest of the owners and looks after the common elements in the building at a modest fee. Moreover,

there is a better sense of community in a condo where residents can share the amenities and socialize with other owners or tenants.”

One of the key visions of the Group, besides attainability, is sustainability.

“The 52 eco-friendly homes in Colchester Heights on County Road 50 are a showcase of Near Net Zero Energy dwellings, whereby the residents of the 3,000 square foot raised ranch style home would probably pay less than $100 per month for water and hydro,” he says. “The new luxury condo Riverside Rise will have similar energy-efficient features.”

Riverside Rise — a new 12-storey 84-unit upscale condo development at 3251 Riverside Drive East, by the side of the Ford Power Plant heritage building — is the major focus of the Group in 2024.

Besides the eco-friendly and energy efficient features, almost all the units except two, have unobstructed views of the Detroit River, Belle Isle, or the Detroit skyline.

About one-sixth of the units will include a Florida Room where one can continue to enjoy the spectacular water views in their own home, even if it is snowing outside.

Regarding the clubhouse amenities, Riverside Rise will feature a Chef’s Kitchen attached, with a cabana on the terrace where one can host a private party by engaging an outside chef or DIY.

“Another unrivalled amenity is an openair hot and cold spa at the 4/F terrace level, where you can enjoy the stars and the moon at night while soaking in the hot tub,” Li adds. “A state-of-the art Dog Wash Station is also included on the ground floor of the building for pet lovers.”

With all these spectacular projects on the “horizon”, how does the local housing crunch affect the Horizon Group’s desire to bring new developments to our region?

Li replies: “Despite rising construction costs and labour shortages, we are undeterred by the restraints because we have strong support from lenders, good rapport with local trades, and most importantly,

Condos at Forest Glade Horizons (3290 Stella Crescent, Windsor) are two bedroom units, two bathrooms and are 1,095 square feet with an additional 95 square foot balcony. Buildings 100 and 200 were completed October to December 2023. Building 300 will be completed in April 2024, with Building 400 completed in June 2024. Photos courtesy of Jesse Durocher Photography.

Riverside Rise is a 12-storey, 84-unit upscale condo development by the Horizons Group, on Riverside Drive East, with eco-friendly and energy-efficient features. This is the only waterfront luxury property to be launched almost 20 years after Portofino hit the market in 2005. Graphic courtesy of Horizons Group.

an insatiable demand for attainable homes, which we are committed to provide. If the municipal planners can speed up the due process in approving our development plans, we can build as fast as a high-speed train can take us.”

A Custom Home Build May Be The Answer To All Of Life’s Little Problems

Well, we are not saying that all the problems presented in life can be solved by having a home custom built on the perfect lot. However, we’re pretty sure you will be a whole lot happier living in a home you love, rather than one you just tolerate!

To ensure you get exactly what you want and need, one should always start with a professional builder for your dream home.

Signature Homes Windsor (SignatureHomesWindsor.com) — working out of the Manor Windsor Realty Ltd. office at 3276 Walker Road — has been constructing custom homes in Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent, since 2011 and Jovan Vujovic, Homebuilder and President has over 25 years of personal experience in the field.

“We specialize in new build residential home construction,” states Vujovic. “During the initial stages of assisting a client with a custom build, we would meet to discuss

the client’s vision and needs for the home. We would then review their budgetary considerations with them to ensure that they are fully educated on related building costs. Once those details are settled, we would schedule to meet with our architect to initiate the process of creating their custom home.”

Jeff Durocher of JM Design and Drafting Inc. is the architect who directly works with Signature Homes, and Vujovic is normally very involved in the design stages of the project.

“We like to provide a hands-on approach to our builds and remain involved in every aspect of the build from start to finish,” he indicates. “Many of our clients base their design on some of our previous models or designs.”

As for the unique advantages to having your home custom built, Vujovic expresses: “The obvious advantage is having the ability to execute exactly what your vision is of your new dream home. To help ensure this, the client is updated with build progress and photos, as well as being welcome to meet onsite, when possible, to ensure each stage of the build is moving forward with their vision in mind.”

Vujovic and his team strive to be there for their client through every step of the process. They even have a process in place in which

they can assist a client in the listing and sale of their existing home with Julie Bondy, a Broker with Manor Windsor Realty Ltd.

“We can coordinate the timing of their existing home sale to the completion of their new home if so desired,” explains Bondy, who is married to Vujovic.

Given the diverse potential of the wishes of the clients, Vujovic has established and maintained a healthy working relationship with all of his subcontractors over the years.

“Our subtrades are trusted, total professionals, and uphold the quality we have come to expect for Signature Homes Windsor,” he comments.

So what lies ahead in the future?

“Despite the dampening effect that increasing interest rates have had on new

The most popular model built by Signature Homes — The Milan — is a 2,500 square foot, two-storey, four bedroom home with a two car garage. Photo courtesy of Devon Pastorius, Windsor Creative.

build sales, we feel that we will see the sector grow again should rates reduce as currently projected,” he mentions. “We have just launched projects in LaSalle at Trinity Woods by ROCK Developments and we have eight executive lots backing onto Conservation still available. We currently have seven lots remaining at our new Essex project as well, and we look forward to announcing additional new projects soon!”

Tiny Homes Offering Massive Potential

So, we all know about downsizing, but there is also ultra-downsizing!

An option exists that incorporates the concept of tiny homes to ease the housing crunch and local group, Laneway Homes (a division of Supreme Services) situated at 5156 Ure Street in Oldcastle

(LanewayHomes.com) is at the forefront of this architectural movement.

Supreme Services has been in business since 2010 and launched Laneway Homes in 2020. Their team has over 45 years of experience in the construction field, employing key trades, including Red Seal carpenters, craftsmen and skilled renovators.

Company owner Dan Radmore, General Manager Steve Asher, and Production Manager Andrew Folkeringa, were eager to inform our readers about this exciting housing option.

“Laneway Homes specializes in creating Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) through tiny homes, garage conversions and home additions,” says Radmore. “This space is of great value to landlords or homeowners who want to increase the value of their property or make living space for family members.”

Asher adds: “Laneway Homes (aka Tiny Homes) are free-standing, secondary units built on the existing property of a homeowner or landlord. This concept maximizes a homeowner’s existing land, creating more living space without the demands of new property or new infrastructure.”

There are four ADU models to choose from — the 430 square foot Iris; the 550 square foot Cottage; the 650 square foot Bordeaux and the 750 square foot Oak (Majestic).

As Folkeringa explains: “Our team have become experts in working with municipalities, designers, and our building team. We handle the entire process from start to finish, including permits, communications with the municipalities and the entire building process, until we hand you the keys.”

Their designs offer energy efficient one and two-bedroom units with full bath,

A custom built two-storey home by Signature Homes is depicted in Seven Lakes. Photo courtesy of Devon Pastorius, Windsor Creative.

Good things do come in small packages! Photographed is the kitchen showroom for Laneway Homes in downtown Windsor. Photo courtesy of Supreme Services.

laundry, living room and kitchen, vaulted ceilings, heat pumps, and come complete with separate utilities.

“We offer units from $169,000 and up,” Radmore states. ”When you consider the current rental rates achieved from a Laneway Home this immediately becomes a cash positive unit and a great investment if it becomes a rental.”

Asher points out: “The cost of maintaining a Laneway Home is minimal. Each unit is expertly built and fully complies with all Ontario building codes and standards.”

The company indicates that demand has been strong because this is such a great investment for both homeowners and landlords. Laneway Homes is attending the Windsor Home & Garden Show in early April and does expect its building calendar to fill up quickly.

So, if you’re interested in building a tiny home for extra income, increasing your property value or providing housing for a family member, get in touch with them today!

Home Is Where The Heart Is

The growth we are seeing in our region due to the advancement of industry, infrastructure, and education, is bringing more and more people to southwestern Ontario than ever before.

Many that come for what was intended to be a temporary period, find themselves falling in love with what we have to offer.

The entertainment, dining, shops, parklands and more, are all part of what hooks new residents who decide to make our region their home.

It is fortunate that we have such a deep pool of qualified local professional builders available to create the structures needed for these new arrivals and, of course, existing residents looking to invest in their dream home.

They say home is where the heart is. Right now the heartbeat of Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent is beating as strong as ever!

Under construction in central Windsor is the Iris Model, a 430 square foot Laneway Home. Photo courtesy of Laneway Homes.

Take Care Of All Your Home Improvement Needs With AZZURRI DESIGN & BUILD INC.

By Jim Murphy Photos Courtesy Of Gabriel Bruzzese

Contractors in the city can often be inexperienced and unreliable, if not pricey. That’s why when you hire a contractor for a home renovation or addition, you want to make sure the company is dependable, competent, and fairly priced.

Opened in 2018, Azzurri Design & Build Inc. is up to the job!

With an office at 2545 North Talbot Road in Tecumseh, they specialize in a wide range of services including kitchen renovations, bathrooms, flooring, decks, fences, framing and additions.

“Both Andre Galvano and I are second generation carpenters who learned the trade from our respective fathers at a very young age,” says Gabriel Bruzzese, who owns the business with Galvano. “I received my formal education through the carpenters’ union before going into business for myself.”

Bruzzese and Galvano decided to open a business of their own because they want to hold their work to their own high standards, and they wanted to have a say in their professional futures.

“Our constant drive to do better puts us in front of our competition,” Bruzzese remarks. “We study new products coming to the industry to provide the latest technology for our customers. Plus, we love watching the progress of a project. Seeing the customers’ excitement when they see the final product is my favourite part!”

The business ensures customers keep coming back by making sure they are

satisfied and, as a result of all their hard work, they get plenty of word-of-mouth referrals. They also offer very competitive and transparent pricing based on materials, manpower required, plus the overall risk and/or difficulty of a project.

They have licenced electricians and plumbers on staff, which helps keep their overall costs down on projects.

“We are known for our quality and speed,” Bruzzese tells Biz X. “We understand the hardship that home renovations create for homeowners, and we work very effectively

to make their visions come to reality in a timely manner.”

Their timelines to complete the projects are two days for decks, two days for fences, 10 days for a kitchen reno and five days for a bathroom reno. They typically book one to two months in advance, depending on how urgently the customer needs the job done.

“In order to protect our customer’s property, we lay plywood on the grass or cement outside before driving any equipment on it,” explains Bruzzese. “Inside we lay ram board on the floor to prevent any damage. We also isolate rooms that are getting work done with poly to control and contain any dust, and we block all the return air vents in the area.”

While they specialize in residential work, they have worked on multiple commercial building renovations in Windsor.

Azzurri Design & Build provides their staff of eight with Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) insurance along with $5 million in construction insurance.

All their work is backed up by a one-year warranty and, when they are made aware of any issues, they work hard to rectify the situation in a timely manner.

“We currently have our storefront being built, which we hope will be open to the public in June 2024,” Bruzzese mentions. “We also plan on getting into building houses in the near future.”

For more information and to see more examples of their work, visit their social media page on Facebook!

The existing kitchen was demolished and structural changes were made when a wall was knocked out to create more space. Plywood floors were removed, back splash, floor tile and plumbing was installed, along with new electrical and HVAC, and the trim was finished and painted. Custom made cabinets by Unique Cabinetworks Inc.

(LEFT) The existing deck was demolished and a new 30 foot wood deck installed for a nice clean walk out from the back door to the deck. (RIGHT) This new-build composite material deck and aluminum rails were all custom built.

By Rebecca Wright

Helena Ventrella . . .

35 Years Of Creating Inviting, Soothing & Inspirational Spaces

ocal Interior Designer Helena Ventrella says her inspiration comes from observing nature, beautiful finishes and installations during her travels — which serve as a starting point to repurposing them as unique buildable solutions that add value to the lives of her clients.

Her business, Helena Ventrella Design Limited (HVDL.ca) began in 1989. The full service Interior Design firm offers full spectrum Interior Design services.

“Our team is a registered professional member of ARIDO (Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario; ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) and we are NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) certified,” points out Ventrella. “This all means that we are one of the few with the legal right to use the title ‘Interior Designer’ and are held to a higher standard than most — we are fully insured, we attend annual educational conferences, complete 12 continuing education courses per year focusing on the health, safety and welfare of our clients, ethics and new products and installation details to ensure our clients are getting the best of the best.”

The firm has a studio space located at 624 Chilver Road, Unit 201 in Windsor and also a Toronto location with office and storage for sampling and boards.

“And I use it as a second home base when I have meetings in the GTA, Muskoka and Blue Mountain areas,” she adds. “Since Canada’s population is ageing, we are landing more retirement projects including independent living, assisted living and long-term care new builds and renovations — and most operators are based in the GTA.”

Ventrella and her team offer full spectrum design services, starting with consulting services, which helps guide clients through the renovation or new-build process for those who want to DIY.

They also offer material and finishes selections that reflect the tastes of their clients and fit within the budget they’ve provided.

“We also offer procurement services for those who want a more hands-off approach, and the benefit of this is that we have strong long-term working relationships with suppliers and offer these discounts to our clients for best possible pricing,” she indicates. “Typically, we collaborate closely with clients, contractors and all trades to ensure the best possible installations and design solutions are met. This can expand into project management so the client doesn’t need to be involved at all until it’s move-in time!”

When she started her practice, Ventrella was trained by past local architectural designer, Stephen Marshall and they focused

primarily on high-end residential design.

“As time went on, our clients invited us to design their corporate offices, restaurants, hotels, daycares and healthcare and wellness facilities,” she describes. “That’s where I really learned that I love creating healing spaces for clients and their patients and customers.”

Ventrella owns and operates two very unrelated businesses — Interior Design and Food Manufacturing & Distribution. As the custodian of the Tunnel BBQ brand — including sauces and spices — she notes that they’re working on getting TBQ ribs back out there to satisfy the public’s taste for nostalgia.

“I’m passionate about each business for different reasons and since both are seasonal, they give me different creative outlets for expression,” she comments.

Over the past 35 years, Ventrella has loved growing and developing her businesses while raising three kids.

“The desire to be the best I could be at both drove me to become very organized, with premeal planning, coordinating kids activities on same days while following up with clients’ requests and working out details in the evenings after my kids were settled doing homework or in bed,” she recalls.

As for her advice to other entrepreneurs, she believes it’s important to remember times may get tough, but don’t ever quit.

“Call for help whenever needed, even if it’s just to brainstorm ideas and always have a contingency plan,” she suggests. “Just because you have a plan and you’re sure it will work doesn’t make it so. The universe may definitely have a better one for you so be open to change.”

Helena Ventrella is photographed in her studio in Walkerville. Her Interior Design firm transforms abstract ideas into concrete, buildable solutions, one project at a time, from residential to commercial to healthcare and wellness. Photo courtesy of Nathalie McFadden.

By Victoria Rose

Help Keep Kids In Sport

Money-saving tips that can be a game-changer

With the rising cost of everything, families are trying to find ways to stretch budgets further.

Many are willing to make sacrifices to cut costs, but keeping children involved in activities they love is often top priority.

Why?

Sports do not just help with physical health, an exhaustive list of studies detail other positive effects, including improved mental well-being, better self esteem, enhanced social skills, and greater academic achievement.

To ensure children have fun, stay active, and continue to build on this positive development, it is imperative that as parents — and as a community — we work together to keep them connected to sports.

Historically, non-profits like KidSport and Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart (Jumpstart. canadiantire.ca) have allowed those facing financial barriers to offset their sports registration fees via an application process.

For successful applicants, the approved portion of the registration fee is sent directly to the sports program.

Several local sports organizations have seen funding come through for 2024.

“The impact of additional funding from sponsors and programs like Jumpstart is considerable,” indicates Kipp Van Kuren, President, Windsor Minor Hockey Association (WMHA.net). “We have several families each year that apply for Jumpstart funding and those families have enjoyed their hockey experience due to the help of this program.”

“We usually have a number of players every year able to access Jumpstart, KidSport, LaSalle’s Pathway to Potential (LaSalle.ca/en/things-to-do/fundingopportunities.aspx), and others,” says Jerry Kavanaugh, President, Windsor Minor Lacrosse Association (See the website: WarlocksLacrosse.com).

The Administrator for the Windsor Soccer Club (WindsorSoccerClub.com) Janice Boyd, informs Biz X that: “Families that applied within the first couple of days of Jumpstart opening their individual child grant portal, did receive funding. Approximately 15 to 20 players

were able to utilize Jumpstart funds.”

She adds that since Jumpstart changed their funding format in 2023, approved applications for summer sports, like soccer, have been on the decline.

“We were told by Jumpstart that funding from January 2024 submissions were greater than expected and funds were exhausted in Windsor Essex,” Boyd reports. “When families contacted us to advise of their situation, we suggested two alternate funding organizations, KidSport and The Assist Group — Putting Kids in Sport. These two organizations have been amazing and really stepped up to assist

A group of Timbits from Windsor Soccer Club watch their coach discuss the fundamentals of the game. The club provides players with opportunities to learn, play, and develop regardless of age, gender or ability. Photo courtesy of Windsor Soccer Club.

our families, and combined, have assisted approximately 40 to 45 children with funding towards their summer registration costs.”

(Refer to: KidSportCanada.ca/ontario/ windsor and: AssistWindsorEssex.ca).

Boyd continues by stating: “In past years, we have seen on average 100 to 125 requests for funding. So far this year we have received funding for about half of what is typically funded.”

To help with the cost of playing, Windsor Soccer Club also offers discounts for early registration, provides a full uniform, and offers used soccer shoes and new shin guards at reduced prices.

Windsor Minor Lacrosse Association helps families with early registration discounts, providing loaner sticks for “Try Lacrosse” clinics, and giving a stick to every new registered player. There’s also a discount for registering three or more family members.

Kavanaugh points out: “We have an equipment buy/sell program through our Facebook page too; this allows people to access used and outgrown equipment.”

How Can Families Save Money?

Take advantage of “Try It” days to see if your child enjoys the sport before investing.

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Apply for grants that help offset registration fees.

See if there are discounts available for registering early or registering multiple children.

Look for used sports equipment at thrift stores or places like J&R Sports Connection, 8418 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor.

Ask if your league has used equipment for sale.

Utilize online sites like Kijiji and Marketplace to find free or used gear.

Consider carpooling with other families.

How Can The Community Help?

Every child should be able to play a sport, but we know that right now, it is not a level playing field.

Companies can play a great part in helping more children access sports.

Along with what positive attributes individual leagues promote, there are common themes of skill building, communication, leadership development, and working towards a common goal.

Therefore, every dollar invested in youth development is an investment in our community’s future.

A coach from Windsor Minor Lacrosse Association (WMLA) talks to a group of beginners at a free “Try Lacrosse” clinic. Attendees can borrow a stick and learn about the game before registering and investing in gear.

Photo courtesy of WMLA.

“Windsor Minor Hockey works with our community businesses, and through their generous sponsorships, we are able to keep our registration costs stable and also offer additional ice time,” says Van Kuren.

Boyd adds: “Company sponsorships of a team or event helps keep the cost of registrations lower for all families. The sponsor gets their name out in the community and receives a receipt of the donation to use as a business write-off. Individual donations are always greatly appreciated as well.”

Individuals or businesses can also donate to organizations that help cover registration fees.

“Jumpstart donation opportunities are available at Canadian Tire, SportChek, and other stores, while making a purchase,” Kavanaugh advises.

We leave you now with a quote from Boyd that sums up the point of this story perfectly: “Where possible, please donate to KidSport, The Assist Group, or Jumpstart. They all help children in our community participate in sport and they keep the money local . . . funds donated within Windsor Essex stay right here! You can also request a tax receipt.”

Expenses for youth sports can add up, but every child should have the opportunity to play a sport.

With some research and planning, it may be possible to keep your children in sports without an additional strain on finances.

Two girls U14 teams play under the lights at the Ford Test Track during Windsor Soccer Club’s summer season. The club offers a variety of ways to save money and provides the longest soccer season in the area. Registration is open to youth aged four to 18. Photo courtesy of Windsor Soccer Club.

Windsor Minor Lacrosse Association teaches more than lacrosse . . . the league aims to teach sportsmanship, emphasize fair play, teach respect for players, officials, and spectators, and develop community spirit. Lacrosse registration is open to youth aged three to 21.  Photo courtesy of WMLA.

AGrowing Beautiful Smiles In #YQG And #CKONT

By Dr. Maxwell Abraham

pril is National Oral Health Month and it’s a great time before summer to brush up on ways to protect your children’s smiles!

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has recently reported the number of children with urgent dental needs has doubled in the past year. The best advice for parents is prevention.

Here are some tips on how to prevent cavities and keep your child’s smile healthy and happy.

1.

Find A Dental Home By Age One

The Canadian Dental Association recommends children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth. This early visit helps establish a dental home for your child, where they can receive regular check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and education on oral hygiene and nutrition. The regions of Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent are home to an amazing and diverse group of general dentists with a range of office settings that you can see to match to your family’s needs.

2. Brush And Floss Daily

Brushing and flossing are the most effective ways to remove plaque and bacteria from a child’s teeth and gums. You should brush your child’s teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. You should also floss your child’s teeth once a day, preferably at night, to remove plaque from between the teeth.

3. Limit Snacking And Sugary Drinks

While the classic advice to prevent cavities is to avoid “junk” foods, it’s important to understand that frequency of eating and drinking is very important. Eating mainly at

meal times and limiting any type of snacks between, is one of the best tools to control frequent cavities to ensure the acidity in the mouth can neutralize with normal salivary flow.

4. Seek Dental Care When Needed

If your child has any signs of dental problems, such as toothache, sensitivity, swelling, bleeding, or broken teeth, do not delay seeking dental care. These problems can worsen over time and lead to more serious complications, such as infection, abscess, or tooth loss. Contact your dentist or the health unit as soon as possible to get your child the treatment they need.

5. Orthodontics Creates A Healthy, Confident Smile For Life

A curious question asked by most parents is when or if their child will need braces. The Ontario Association of Orthodontists recommends children are screened at seven years old. As an orthodontist, we screen for skeletal issues, such as a crossbite, underbite, and crowding. Most children will not need treatment this young, but families will know a plan of what is to come and monitor growth of the teeth and jaws to intercept if anything arises. A referral is not needed to see most orthodontists, and they will work to coordinate care with your family dentist.

Orthodontics has changed drastically in the last five years. New modalities like Invisalign clear aligners have made obtaining a perfect smile customized, seamless and drama-free, increasing the proportion of adults in treatment.

New 3D-printed clear braces, such as Lightforce, introduce a level of digital planning and customization of moving teeth

that has unlocked efficient treatment times and less visits.

Remote care and monitoring has really aided in making treatment fit our (and our kids’) busy lives.

Orthodontics can still be very affordable. Although fees can vary widely between offices, some offer completely free exams, payment plans (some with no down payment nor interest!) and their teams usually will help families obtain reimbursements, if they have coverage.

Since smiles are the first thing we see on a person, prevention is extremely important and the ability to change your child’s smile can instill a strong sense of confidence and selfworth for life.

Dr. Maxwell Abraham is the owner of Abraham Orthodontics in Leamington and now in Chatham. A referral is not needed to see his #AOmazing team for a free smile exam (book one at: AbrahamOrthodontics.com). Children not ready for treatment are seen in their free Growing Smiles Club yearly! Dr. Abraham is also a Director of the Board at Erie Shores HealthCare and Treasurer of the Ontario Association of Orthodontists.

A smile can change the world and give a child the confidence he/she needs. Healthy teeth are part of their overall health and well-being.

THE PARENTING BIZ

KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY Young Hearts Full Of Gold . . . And Special Medals To Match

By Jim Murphy

While you may think many young people spend their days in pursuit of trivialities, there are always plenty of exceptions.

The teenagers we profile this issue have chosen a different path — one of purpose, impact and unwavering determination to achieve their lofty goals.

Just as we have written previously in other editions about kids in the community helping the needy and/or achieving their dreams in the athletic, artist, business world and beyond, we once again are pleased to introduce you to two young girls who are out there doing amazing things! We hope their stories will inspire your children and you can share this article with them.

Breanna Williams

Skates Her Way To Success

Fifteen year old figure skater Breanna Williams of the Leamington Skating Club took home a first place (gold) medal in figure skating singles division 5F and a third place (bronze) medal for figure skating ice dancing division 2A, at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Calgary, which ran from February 27 to March 2, 2024.

“I was excited and overwhelmed when I won the gold for my free skate solo,” expresses Williams. “I put in the hours of practice and training on and off the ice each week, and I’m happy it all paid off.”

The Special Olympics Canada Winter Games is specifically designed for people with intellectual disabilities.

It’s different from the Paralympics, which is for individuals with physical disabilities.

Individuals who compete in the Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills and greater self-confidence.

They exhibit courage and enthusiasm and build lasting friendships. These life skills enhance their ability to live normal productive lives.

Special Olympics’ athletes hold jobs, own homes, go to school and successfully confront life’s challenges.

Williams — who was the only athlete from Windsor Essex to qualify for the games — is a long-time client of the John McGivney Children’s Centre (JMCC).

She’s been skating and practicing

since she was just four years old.

For more than 45 years, JMCC has provided rehabilitation and support services to children and youth living in Windsor and Essex County.

As the only publicly funded source of specialized pediatric rehabilitation in the region, JMCC supports more than 3,000 children and youth annually with physical, neurological, and developmental needs.

In addition to providing physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech/ language therapy, JMCC offers social work, therapeutic recreation and resource navigation services to families, along with a wide range of onsite specialty clinics. Services are offered in the centre, virtually, in schools and in the community. (Get more details on: JMCCentre.ca).

“We have watched Breanna grow from a little girl into the remarkably determined and talented young woman she is today,” comments Jennifer Jovanovski, CEO of JMCC. “Breanna continues to set goals for herself that many of us could only dream of. She works extremely hard to rise above any obstacles that stand in the way of achieving her goals.”

Williams is hoping to attend the Special Olympics next year in Italy, and when she grows up, she hopes to be a skating coach.

Her mother, Bridget Williams states: “We are all very proud of Breanna and her accomplishments. We can’t wait to see what the future brings her way!”

Maya Mikhael Is On A Mission To Create A World Where Everyone Is Connected And United

Now 18 years old, Maya Mikhael started the non-profit organization Maya’s Friends when she was just seven.

“Our mission is to help those in need around the community, spread kindness, end world poverty and help battle childhood sickness,” states Mikhael. “We participate in cancer walks, hold events at senior homes, and ensure to continuously spread kindness and positivity. I also personally have my own podcast called Windsor’s Truth, where I discuss information about issues we face in our community.”

Mikhael began fundraising at the young

Representing Windsor Essex, 15 year old Breanna Williams recently competed at the 2024 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games and brought home two medals! (LEFT) Proudly displaying her gold medal for figure skating singles division 5F, she is shown with coaches Tracey Zwiers (left) and Sawyer Buchanan. Zwiers is from Orillia and was the Head Coach for the figure skaters, and Buchanan from Toronto looked after and trained Williams at the games. (RIGHT) Williams also received a bronze medal for figure skating ice dancing division 2A. Photos courtesy of Bridget Williams.

age of seven when, in Ohio, she saw a man looking through the garbage for food.

“After asking my parents why the man was doing so, and learning about the concept of poverty, I wanted to make a change,” she recounts. “That’s why I decided to open a lemonade stand.”

Her lemonade stand quickly became a staple in the community and it operated until the summer of 2019, as the COVID-19 pandemic the following years shut it down.

“This raised thousands of dollars and all the money was used to buy can goods and baked goods for the Salvation Army, the Downtown Mission of Windsor, The Windsor Youth Centre, the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County, and the Ronald McDonald House,” she indicates. “With Maya’s Friends, our main fundraising was our lemonade stand. With the Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex County, we focused, and are still focusing on, raising money for the Youth Wellness Hub.”

Mikhael was previously a student trustee for the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board and is a skater, Coach and volunteer with the South Windsor Skating Club

Community groups and associations she volunteers for or has been affiliated with include: HOBY, Hundred, Ontario Ethics Bowl, the International Baccalaureate — Festival of Hope, and the Canadian Cancer Society.

“I also partake in clubs at the University of Windsor including: the Behaviour, Cognition and Neuroscience Student Association, First Aid Club, Students Supporting Seniors, Little Kindness, Outstanding Scholars, Middle Eastern Student Association, University of Windsor Student Association, and the University of Windsor Student Association Food Pantry,” Mikhael adds.

THE PARENTING BIZ

“Through these clubs we were able to hold numerous amounts of fundraisers including bake sales, paint nights, comedy shows, and more!”

She is motivated by the way her work changes people’s lives.

“It is often said that the most meaningful thing to homeless individuals is when another individual can look them in the eyes; however, this is not often acted upon,” she believes. “Understanding that individuals who live in poverty are humans too, with feelings, and they are trying their best, is so important. I want to continue to bridge the gap between individuals living in poverty, as they deserve their voices to be heard as well. Ultimately, I would like to create a world where everyone is connected and united. A community is an environment where all individuals work together.

Our environment is not a community until every single individual feels respected and involved. Our goal should be to create a community.”

Recently, Mikhael was one of 24 recipients to receive the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers from the Lt. Governor General of Ontario. This is the highest honour bestowed by the province for young people between the ages of 15 and 24, in recognition of outstanding contributions through volunteering in their communities and throughout the province.

“Winning the award was quite a shock,” Mikhael comments. “While I received the award, all I could think was that it was not just me winning, it was my whole community, as this would not be possible without the support from my parents, my friends, my family, and most importantly the people of Windsor Essex who never hesitated to help out and show up to our events.”

Previously, she was awarded in 2019 the Governor General’s Sovereign Medal for exceptional volunteer achievements, and in the future, Mikhael wants to continue volunteering anywhere she can.

She’s currently working on starting a new project.

“In terms of career goals, I would like to become a psychiatrist and study medicine,” she shares with Biz X. “Hopefully one day I would like to open my own homeless shelter and possibly become the first female Prime Minister who is the leader when her party is elected.”

If you would like to connect with her, refer to: Facebook.com/Maya.Mikhael.58.

All of us at Biz X magazine congratulate Maya and Breanna on their accomplishments to date and we look forward to updating our readers on their future accomplishments, as well as reporting on other amazing kids in the community!

Maya Mikhael (middle) is photographed on March 1 at Queen’s Park in Toronto after receiving the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers (years 2021 and 2022) from the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lt. Governor of Ontario. Also present was the Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Michael Ford. Photo courtesy of Lisa Gretzky, MPP, Windsor West.

Five Ways For Busy Parents To Tackle Stress

(NC) Whether you’re expecting your first little one, have rambunctious toddlers running around, or you’re smack-dab in the middle of those tough teenage years, parenting is full of memorable milestones, fun celebrations — and plenty of stress.

Since stress wreaks havoc on the mind and body, it’s important to develop habits that help you and your growing family thrive.

Here are five healthy habits you can start working towards . . .

1. Make Appointments For Self-Care

You’re probably managing a busy family calendar, full of well-baby checkups, hockey games, dance recitals and Sunday dinners with grandparents. Focus on your own needs by scheduling them like you would any other appointment — even if it’s simply showering alone with the bathroom door closed.

2. Unwind In Your Own Way

Go for a walk, do some yoga, meditate, take an Epsom salt bath, try some deep breathing, dance it out, watch reality TV — you name it. Do something every day to help you unwind. According to a recent

survey, nearly half of Canadians didn’t realize stress can affect their gum health. If you’re experiencing gum bleeding and inflammation, take a gum health quiz at colgate.ca and consider adding a daily toothpaste such as Colgate PerioGardSF to your shopping list; it’s a daily toothpaste that fights bacteria that can cause early gum disease.

3. Prioritize Sleep

When is the last time you took a good look at your sleep hygiene? Create a sleep goal, design a relaxing routine, ditch the blue light (digital screens) and be consistent.

4. Eat Meals Together

You won’t feel like a short-order cook and there’s more space for real connection when you get past the standard “What did you do at school today?” conversation.

5. Create A Chore Chart

Even if your kids are still young, they can help out at home. From dusting and learning to fold laundry, to making their beds and loading a dishwasher, you’re not only lightening your load a little but you’re also teaching them valuable life skills.

Balancing personal wellness with

the responsibilities of parenting isn’t always easy, but showing your kids what a mentally and physically healthy parent looks like is just as important for their own development.

So, if you can’t do it just for you, do it for them, too.

Are you ready to snap? For those times you feel you just can’t cope, try our tips for stressed-out parents to help you relax and recharge. Photo courtesy of NewsCanada.com.

Andrea Grimes

Build A Brand Of Change . . . Get In The Picture

If you want something done, ask a busy person. This axiom applies now more than ever, especially as so many volunteers are “aging out”. Conversely, it comes to no surprise that COVID-19 had a hand in marginalizing a number of organizations’ volunteer resources.

Victorian Order Of Nurses Windsor Essex

Since 1897, the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) has provided in-home nursing care to generations of Canadians who lived through some of the most devastating periods in our nation’s history!

“When COVID-19 landed on doorsteps throughout our neighbourhoods, our program delivery pivoted,” says Melissa Landry, Manager, Fund Development, Victorian Order of Nurses Windsor Essex. “The success of waging war against the pandemic was, in every instance, due to our volunteers who helped our frail and failing-health clients stay healthy, live well, and remain active in their communities. Our volunteers’ desire to ‘make a difference’ is rooted in a deep sense of kindness, generosity, and a belief in the power of the human connection, driving the momentum of ‘meaningful change’ for

our clients, and the communities we serve.”

The December 6, 1927 issue of Border Cities Star reported on April 1, 1927, the VON Border Cities Branch operated from 537 Janette Avenue, thereby establishing VON’s “welcoming” presence in Windsor, Ontario! (Note: Branch is now located on Rhodes Drive.)

“Our dedicated volunteers are acknowledged for their commitment with a presentation of certificates/pins at an annual banquet,” Landry adds.

To picture yourself as a VON Windsor Essex volunteer, visit: VON.ca/en/volunteer.

Windsor Moose Lodge Jr. Moose

In 2016, the Windsor Moose Lodge 1499 (777 Tecumseh Road West), established the Windsor Moose Lodge Jr. Moose

“It is our Lodge’s mandate to encourage youth to make their ideas possible, keeping in line with our Lodge’s values — the primary focus being on what they raise together is as a ‘team’,” states Amy Renaud, President of the Windsor Moose Lodge 1499.

In 2023, the Jr. Moose “team” was instrumental in raising $552 to purchase boxes of cereal, benefitting The Windsor Youth Centre, The Salvation Army, Assumption Parish Food Bank and Brock Elementary School

“Over the past four years, the Jr. Moose (aka REMARKABLE KIDS) raised a little over $14,000 for the Downtown Mission of Windsor’s Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser — being successful again this year presenting the mission with a $7,019 donation,” indicates Renaud.

To build a foundation of “giving back” for your child, refer to their Facebook page under “Windsor Moose Lodge 1499”.

The Alzheimer Society Of Windsor & Essex County

How many times have you walked into a room and could not remember the reason for being there and you started wondering whether something serious was going on?

Although many people have heard of Alzheimer’s disease, it is helpful to know that there are resources available along the wellness journey.

“Established in 1981 and incorporated in 1985, the Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County (ASWE) serves to alleviate the personal and social consequences of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias affecting a quality of life,” explains Merissa Mills, ASWE Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator.

ASWE’s volunteers receive training on Alzheimer’s disease, as well as undergoing

Pictured in the fall of 2023, Carole Dray (left) Director, VON Community Corporation Board of Directors and Cathy Lussier, a Meals on Wheels volunteer prepare to deliver food to their clients. Photo courtesy of VON Windsor Essex.

The Windsor Moose Lodge’s Remarkable Kids’ bake sale raised $533 for the Downtown Mission of Windsor and received the mission’s Community Hero award. At the lodge on February 9, 2024, are Junior Moose members (from left): Brooke Renaud, Daniela Palmeri, Chase Francoeur and Skylar Poisson, pose with Rukshini Ponniah-Goulin (second from right), Executive Director, the Downtown Mission of Windsor. Photo courtesy of the Windsor Moose Lodge 1499.

an interview process to align their skills for the most suitable client placement.

“In bringing their unique talents, skills, and passions to the table, our volunteers play a crucial role in the fabric of our organization, serving in a myriad of capacities that are integral to fulfilling our mandate,” Mills concludes.

During the ASWE’s annual general meeting, service pins and trophies, as well as gifts of appreciation from generous sponsors, are presented to the Society’s volunteers in recognition of their commitment. To tap into ASWE’s volunteer opportunities, go to: Alzheimer.ca/windsoressex.

WEAVA And National Volunteer Week

“With National Volunteer Week taking place in Canada from April 14 to 20, 2024, how will you join thousands of individuals who are in tune with the intrinsic ethos of volunteering?” asks Mark Wybenga, President of the Windsor-Essex Association for Volunteer Administration (WEAVA; WeavaBlog.wordpress.com).

The theme for 2024 is, Every Moment Matters. Right now, whatever you can contribute is needed and valued by the nonprofit organization of your choice.

Moment by moment we can move collectively from surviving to thriving again.

National Volunteer Week April 14 - 20, 2024

In closing, we leave you with a quote from Canadian physician, Dr. William Osler: “We are here to add what we can to life, not to get what we can from life.”

Alzheimer Society Windsor & Essex County volunteer Jack Ramieri (their awesome Quizmaster and Host since 2012, middle row third from right) is shown with a group of volunteers at the Ciociaro Club during the organization’s biggest fundraiser, Battle of the Brains on January 19, 2024. Photo courtesy of ASWE.

Graphic courtesy of: Volunteer.ca

The Ongoing Achievements Of SWOBEN

By Colin Grimmond

The Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network (SWOBEN) is a partnership of Empowerment Squared and WEtech Alliance funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

Since 2022, it seeks to empower and support Black entrepreneurs, including business owners and non-profit leaders in the greater southwestern Ontario region, to succeed and thrive by building strong business foundations and optimizing opportunities.

This initiative addresses the unique challenges and barriers that Black entrepreneurs face by facilitating access to education, resources and professional advisors.

SWOBEN has successfully supported over 90 entrepreneurs throughout southwestern Ontario, including 65 businesses within the Windsor and Essex County area. Its third cohort — both Windsor and Hamilton — was recently launched mid-March 2024.

Expect new partnerships, new workshops and better service to our local entrepreneurs!

However, for the purpose of this article now, we profile four more SWOBEN Windsor entrepreneurs including . . .

Khadijah Akbar, Nature Smile Frozen Treats & Bean Pies

Akbar is a proud Toronto native of Trinidadian heritage and the rich culinary heritage of her family — with her grandmother’s crafted delightful drinks — laid the foundation for her love of creating and savouring flavours. Consequently, in pursuit of her entrepreneurial dreams, she relocated to Windsor and established Nature Smile Treats in 2021, during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with her partner, the pair harnessed their creativity and passion to give birth to Nature Smile — a haven for unique, fun, and enjoyable comfort foods. Her mission is simple, but profound: to put a smile on the faces

of her customers. Nature Smile offers gourmet bean pies and frozen treats, known as Water Ice or Sorbet. Water Ice, a dairy-free frozen dessert made with sweetened water or fruit juice, stands out for its refreshing properties and versatile use. Akbar is passionate about revolutionizing the dessert experience by bringing refreshing flavours directly to consumers. This business has already received acclaim for its commitment to quality and innovation and its products can be found along the riverside, in downtown Windsor, and at various events. Be sure to keep an eye out for their red and white ice cream cart on those wonderful warm days!

NatureSmile.ca

Cathy Icare, Pardon Monsieur

Icare has experienced her career evolve from a fashion model, where she elegantly walked the catwalk and illuminated photo shoots with her magnetic presence, to today, as founder of the Pardon Monsieur. With a touch of originality and artistry to the fashion industry, Icare founded Pardon Monsieur in March 2020 in France and in January 2023 in Canada, which specializes in traditional couture. Pardon Monsieur is a bold clothing brand, vibrantly reflecting the diversity and subtlety of human stories. The brand shares traditional values through the handmade production of its creations. In fact, all creations are carefully designed by hand. Today, they are fortunate to have a team of 10 St. Clair College students working to produce the first “made in Windsor, made in Canada” creations. Pardon Monsieur also brings communities together through various conferences to share entrepreneurial experiences, in addition to its international fashion know-how, with the aim of motivating and inspiring new entrepreneurs. Currently in preparation, Pardon Monsieur’s Renaissance collection travels from Paris to Windsor. The brand has also had the chance to present its projects to local and international news outlets, such as Radio Canada, Le Rempart, Les Nanas de Paris, and many others.

PardonMonsieur.com

Justin Louis-Jean, Just INcyclopedia

Justin Louis-Jean was born in Canada of Haitian and Trinidadian heritage and graduated from Collège La Cité (Ottawa) in 2022, with a Diploma in Social Work, during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares his college experience in his first awardwinning book — Academic Revolution — co-written with Pierce Mortensen. His plan is to write five books in total, exploring issues within academia, sports, and interpersonal relationships from a psychological lens. Thus, Just INcyclopedia was created in 2023 as the official business publishing platform to host all of his scholarship. In addition, and supportive of Just INcyclopedia, Louis-Jean has produced the Just INwords podcast, which is guest based, and where he interviews expert guests on various topics of social import to the broader community.

JustINcyclopedia.com

Ryan Richardson, GoTellSomeone

Since 1996, Richardson has been involved in artist management, representing various instrumentalists, performers and songwriters within the entertainment industry. Later, he created a business

platform offering a number of services, including event management, and podcast development. Along with his own highly successful podcasts, 20 Years of 24, and People In Your Neighbourhood, his GoTellSomeone platform supports over 12 other podcasts including: Keith Bunker’s Inside the Bunker; Cheap Flight featuring Richardson, Derek Cilibraise, Geoff Laforet, and Lyndon Perry; John J. Thompson’s The True Tunes and Kelly Fitzsimmon’s MKE LOVE. Along with Fabio Costante and Lori Baldassi, Richardson can be heard weekly on the CKLW AM800 Thursday Roundtable discussing news polls, Windsor’s economic future, housing prices and more. Recently, in February 2024, Richardson was a successful finalist and winner in the Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab’s Southwest Black Tourism Spark program with his Windsor Essex Ride & Dine concept. Richardson will be receiving a three month mentorship with a tourism innovator, experienced operator, industry leader and/ or sector expert, $3,000 in seed funds to support tourism idea development activities and $2,000 in tech adoption support and advisory services. Congratulations!

GoTellSomeone.com

Colin Grimmond is the Senior Coordinator, Professional Skills and Entrepreneurship with Empowerment Squared for SWOBEN in Windsor, since October 2022. He brings over 15 years of professional experience in Program Development and Coordination in various cities, including Windsor, Oakville, Hamilton and Toronto. Colin has worked for various non-profit and recruitment/staffing agencies, including the Multicultural Council of Windsor & Essex County, Halton Multicultural Council, Skills for Change, SISO, Robert Half Canada, StaffWorks, and Express Employment Professionals. The overriding purpose throughout his career has been to inspire, support and strengthen clients, including refugees, new Canadians, young people and seniors, to successfully integrate into the labour market, as well as companies in efficiently finding ideal and competent staff. Most recently, he is thrilled and energized working with local Black entrepreneurs, non-profit leaders and small business owners in developing and growing their entrepreneurial ventures. Connect with Grimmond via: SWOBEN.ca and: EmpowermentSquared.org. His columnist photo is courtesy of BLOOM Digital Marketing and Media.

Bubby’s Plumbing Incorporated . . . Where Expertise Flows Through Every Drain

By Rebecca Wright

Windsor plumber Bubby Cronin says what inspires him with his business, Bubby’s Plumbing Incorporated, is the joy of helping people and completing work he is proud of — alongside the best team around.

“We specialize in plumbing renovations, sewer service and replacement of problematic sewers from top to bottom, pipe patches, eeling and jetting,” describes Cronin. “We also specialize in backflow prevention.”

They’re fully insured, licenced, and offer residential and commercial free estimates.

Located at 1074 Crawford Avenue, the company opened in November 2011.

“I started the business as a 22-yearold young man ready and eager to work,” he recounts.

Along with his business partner — Anthony Fregni — they have 20 employees at Bubby’s Plumbing Inc., including office staff and a shop manager, with 10 trucks currently on the road.

The company offers full-service plumbing, including: new rough-in and plumbing for extensive renovations, both commercial and residential, day-to-day service, heating and cooling solutions, and drain cleaning.

“We have installed thousands of new sump pumps and backwater valves and everyone locally should consider using the City of Windsor’s sump pump subsidy program to protect their home,” Cronin advises.

According to Cronin, their team stands apart due to the support they have in their shop and office.

“From management, to our office staff, to our shop manager, to the business owners who are always supporting any issues that the guys may run into in the field, we have an incredible team culture that tops any other shop in town and guys want to come to work with us because of that,” he asserts.

Over the years, they have made significant changes as part of their growth, from protocol and procedures, to having a fully-loaded shop of material to ensure their crew can load their trucks from material used the day before and be efficient on the job site the next day as a result.

“Our shop manager keeps the shelves stocked and ensures that material that is needed is always readily available to avoid delays for our customers,” Cronin comments. “This has really evolved over the years and made a significant impact on the level of service we can provide.”

Since the company offers emergency services, they often have customers that call after hours who require plumbing assistance immediately.

“And they don’t need to look any further,” states Cronin. “We respond promptly and are readily available for any emergencies that arise.”

As well, Bubby’s Plumbing strives to bring apprentices through the apprentice program from day one, through schooling and the experiences required to work in the field.

“We have brought multiple people through the apprenticeship program to become

licenced plumbers and we currently have five apprentices in different stages of their apprenticeship,” he indicates.

Over the years, Cronin is pleased to report that Bubby’s Plumbing has received amazing feedback from customers.

“We make sure customers are satisfied upon our completion and work was done correctly,” he promises. “Our reviews and reputation speak for themselves.”

From start to finish, the customer is always top of mind at Bubby’s Plumbing.

Cronin describes the complete experience is a positive one, from the time customers make the first call and schedule an appointment to the amazing technicians and service they receive. And right up until to the completion of the job, the team always keeps the customer informed with what they are doing and why.

“We truly care, we love what we do and it is fulfilling to be able to provide the best plumbing services here in Windsor and Essex County,” he expresses.

To learn more about this company and the complete list of services it offers go to: BubbysPlumbing.com.

Bubby Cronin, one of the owners of Bubby’s Plumbing, stands in the kitchen of a Walkerville home that the company recently worked on. The kitchen was completely gutted and all the plumbing is brand new. Photo by Tina Huynh.