Biz X magazine April/May 2020

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION Art Gallery Of Windsor’s 20 Year Milestone Sparks Nostalgia

Ambassador Golf Club’s “Pay It Forward” Wedding Giveaway

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training Of Windsor Inc. And St. Nicholas

Macedonian Church “International Women’s Day” Celebration Photos

THE PARENTING BIZ COVID-19 And Your Family April/May 2020

$3.50

A nd lots more including: Central Metals Corp.; Stacey Robert-Tobin;

Speculators Investment Club; Grill Twenty & Floor Coverings International

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Movin’ On Down The Road . . .

Packing up your possessions to move residences is a major life experience that can often be stressful. We talk to local industry experts who offer suggestions on how to make the whole process go as smoothly as possible. You’ll also learn who can help you store or throw away items no longer needed. So after the final box is unloaded off the truck, give the mover a friendly wave goodbye and get ready to make some great family memories at your new home. — PAGE 18 B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • A P R IL / M A Y 2 0 2 0

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

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PUBLISHER'S NOTE: All photos in this issue were taken prior to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines.

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table of contents APRIL/MAY 2020 volume 23 • issue 4

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: How To Rise To The Occasion And Help Our Region In Times Of Need 6 Editorial Viewpoint With the help of outgoing Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW) Executive Director Catharine Mastin (photo courtesy of the AGW), columnist Alan Halberstadt examines the gallery’s roller coaster ride of survival over 20 years since the modern gallery building was constructed.

8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Biz X Was There: "International Women's Day Honouring Women" On March 6, 2020 the Ladies Auxiliary of St. Nicholas Macedonian Church, (situated at 5225 Howard Avenue in LaSalle), organized the “International Women’s Day Honouring Women” event. Standing (in photo by Josie Elysia) in front of a silent auction table lined with prizes donated by local businesses, are members of the auxiliary. From left: Elizabeth Taleski, Catharina Marentette (the evening’s emcee), Sue Noffnes and Stacey George.

Check out which local retailers were featured for the fashion show portion at this event and also learn which new insurance brokerage recently opened in Windsor!

14 Newsflash 16 Food For Thought: Grill Twenty, 20 University Avenue East, Windsor 26 Ask The Experts: Give New Life To Your Home With Floor Coverings International 28 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Meet The Vendors Participating In A Pay It Forward Wedding Giveaway Campaign 31 Tech Bytes: The Keys To Enabling The Tech Sector Of Windsor Essex 32 Portfolio Corner: In Chinese The Word “Crisis” Consists Of Two Characters — Danger And Opportunity!

33 XX Files: Mary A. Coulthard, The Speculators Investment Club

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34 THE PARENTING BIZ “COVID-19 Tips, Plus Getting Back To Nature” We begin our parenting section with suggestions from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit on how to talk with your child about COVID-19, how to protect them and look after a sick child with the virus and mental health concerns. We then shift into self isolation tips and offer ideas on ways to keep the kids occupied. The coronavirus’s shutdown of businesses, organizations and schools threw everyone for a loop, putting families and children together inside four walls — for 24 hours a day for many weeks.

Whereas quality family time is always a good thing, kids need to keep their creative juices flowing. Whether it is that first dandelion growing in the grass or a ladybug that emerges from its winter nap, children’s curiosity drives their learning. You now have the time to help them discover the gifts of nature right in their own backyard.

38 From The Bookshelf: “Just My Imagination” By Chad Price 39 Take The Lead: Women Of Windsor And Fertility Friends’ Stacey Robert-Tobin 40 Hot Shots: WEST’s “International Women’s Day Gala” Samra Zafar (left in photo by Rod Denis), poses with Rose Anguiano Hurst, Executive Director of Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor, Inc. (WEST) before talking about her life story in the keynote speech at the March gala. Zafar runs Brave Beginnings (a non-profit organization in the GTA she founded) to support abuse survivors in their journey to build a life of respect and freedom. Emotions ran high as she described the abuse she personally experienced, but her words were also very inspiring to attendees. Another highlight of the evening was the presentations of the “Journey Towards Success” Awards. Find out who the winners were and which local companies graciously sponsored this event, in our special photo spread.

43 Let’s Talk About: Never Giving Up Despite Tough Times 45 The Way It Was: The 75th Anniversary Of The Liberation Of Holland 46 Biz Of The Month: Central Metals Corp. Turns 10

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YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION Art Gallery Of Windsor’s 20 Year Milestone Sparks Nostalgia Ambassador Golf Club’s “Pay It Forward” Wedding Giveaway Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. and St. Nicholas Macedonian Church “International Women’s Day” Celebration Photos

THE PARENTING BIZ Details on “The Mama & Family Expo” And lots more including: Central Metals Corp.; Stacey Robert- Tobin & The OCTOBER April 2020 2019

$3.50

Speculators Investment Club; Grill Twenty; Floor Coverings International

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Downsizing and packing endless boxes is a chore nobody looks forward to, but in today’s society when skills are portable and people have to follow the jobs, it’s a necessary evil. This edition, we try to take some of the pressure and frustration away by talking to local business professionals in the moving biz. Also, we offer suggestions so you can not only have a smooth move, but know who to contact to store and dispose of certain items you do not need to transport to your new home.

Movin’ On Down The Road . . .

Packing up your possessions to move residences is a major life experience that can often be stressful. We talk to local industry experts who offer suggestions on how to make the whole process go as smoothly as possible. You’ll also learn who can help you store or throw away items no longer needed. So after the final box is unloaded off the truck, give the mover a friendly wave goodbye and get ready to make some great family memories at your new home. — PAGE 18 BIZ X MAGAZINE • APRIL 2020

ON THE COVER — “Movin’ On Down The Road . . .“ — 18

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

COVER CREDITS: Robyn Myles and her big sister Willow wave good bye to Glen Cook, Owner of Glen’s Moving Ltd., as the girls settle into their new home with their family, out in the county. Photo by Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com).

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FUNNY STUFF! BROUGHT TO YOU BY

“That’s The Look . . . That’s The Look . . . The Look Of Love!”

Send your funny animal photo with your pet’s name to deborah@bizxmagazine.com and it may be included here in an upcoming issue. Make sure it gives our readers a laugh!

Bear is not one to look for trouble. What mischief could this adorable pup ever get in anyway?

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We dare you to look Dudley in the eye.

He’ll win the staring contest every time.

Here’s looking at you, Jack!

Have you considered the Tax impacts of COVID-19?

During a crisis or unexpected economic downturn, it is important to understand how efficient and effective tax management contributes to overall business liquidity and profitability. Your Tax advisor can help: — Adopt tax-related cash management strategies — Asset sale strategies — Intra-group financing arrangements — Optimize tax incentives and credits — Employee personal tax impact Contact us John Ropac Partner, Private Enterprise Tax T: 519-251-3523

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WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Victoria Abboud Lori Baldassi Julianna Bonnett David Clark Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh Natasha E. Feghali Andrea Grimes Alan Halberstadt Dave Hall Dave Halliday Steven Mayo Joe McParland Jim Murphy Ujjwal Sharma Michelle van Heughten Rebecca Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodney L. Denis Photography Josie Elysia PRODUCTION DESIGN

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Jason Grech Partner, Private Enterprise Tax T: 519-251-3531 Ronan Carrig Partner, International Tax T: 519-251-3543 © 2020KPMG LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved. 26381

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from the publisher

We Are All In This Together, Ready To Help One Another . . . No Matter What The Challenge May Be © Can Stock Photo/Nikki24

By Deborah Jones

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y, how things have changed since our last issue was out!

Our March issue was distributed and my team and I were busy working away on the April edition, when bang . . . the coronavirus hit our country, businesses shut down and everyone had to stay home. And rightly so!

Over our 22 year history we have overcome many different challenges . . . 9-11 was tough, but we have never faced anything like the COVID-19 pandemic. I am sure it is the same for your business/organization and family as well.

As I write this article, I am uncertain when non-essential businesses and organizations in our area will be up and running again.

When they are, you will receive this issue in your mailbox — that I do know. And I am also confident the small businesses of our region will be strongly supported even more now by consumers.

From our home offices we were doing our part to help the economy in the shutdown period the best way we knew how — profiling small businesses on our website and social media pages.

Whereas there were too many hard days (and pretty scary ones at that!) during this crisis, there still were plenty of good news stories.

Businesses throughout Essex County were giving back to those who were working to keep us all safe by donating food and pitching in to help seniors buy groceries.

Local manufacturers also accepted the challenge to produce hand sanitizers, masks, face shields, and more for the medical profession.

To start, I wish to thank all those in the local healthcare industry, along with the police and fire departments, who risk their own personal health to protect ours.

From a business standpoint, thank you to the bank/credit union employees and accountants who assisted in financial matters and to the essential workers who ensure we have access to supplies such as groceries, pet food, security and more.

Thanks as well to all the politicians doing their best to make sure our employees are paid and for us here, thank you to Canada Post for delivering the cheques in the mail and our magazine.

For the first time our issue will not have our “Dates To Remember” column for obvious reasons, so now in my space I want to mention a special week.

How ironic is it that the World Health Organization declared 2020 the year of the nurse and midwife? (refer to: ONA.org) May 11 to 17 was the Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA) “Nursing Week”.

Celebrated during the week of Florence Nightingale’s birthday it is a time to recognize the dedication and achievement of nurses — Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) — and their contribution to the health and well-being of Ontarians.

Over 68,000 front-line RNs, RPNs, NPs and health-care professionals, and more than 18,000 nursing student affiliates, work in Ontario hospitals, long-term care facilities, public health, the community, industry and clinics.

As a result of the current pandemic, we have all learned how important nurses are in our world.With that said, we need to honour them always, not just in times of crisis.

The same goes for many other life necessities like making sure our food banks are stocked, the elderly are looked after and we have enough blood donations on hand for any disaster situations.

“Every minute of every day someone in Canada needs blood,” states Marisa Gatfield, Territory Manager, Donor Relations, Canadian Blood Services, 3909 Grand Marais Road East, Windsor, inside the Red Cross building. She adds,“That someone may be a loved one, friend, co-worker, or perhaps even yourself.”

In Windsor and Essex County over 2,500 new donors are needed annually.

New donors are welcome and encouraged to schedule an appointment to donate blood.

If you would like to donate go to: MyAccount.blood.ca/en/eligibility-quiz to answer a few questions first.

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As Gatfield explains, “Blood donations are needed for chemotherapy treatments, trauma victims, cardiac surgeries, and organ transplants — procedures that all routinely take place every day.”

Since blood products have a limited shelf life, the demand is constant.

New guidelines are in place dealing with the COVID-19 crisis and according to Gatfield, “since our call for support on March 16, we have seen a notable increase in blood donations that has helped maintain the blood inventory in the short term, and we thank donors for their generosity. But this effort is a marathon, not a sprint.”

She continues, “We urge donors to book appointments over the next few weeks to help maintain an adequate level of blood and blood products for patients in Canada.”

All eligible donors can book an appointment online at: Blood.ca.

Please also keep in mind that blood drives are a beautiful way to support, remember, and honour someone very special. They are an opportunity to pay it forward and help others in need.

As for monetary donations, there are many local charities in need of your help, since certain fundraising events were not able to take place. Get in touch with your favourite charity to see if you can help.

Next, I have one final request. If you are able to make a financial donation to the COVID-19 Global Appeal please log on to: RedCross.ca or you can mail a cheque to the Canadian Red Cross, 3909 Grand Marais Road East, Windsor, N8W 1W9.

Donations will be used to enable Red Cross Red Crescent Societies, across the world, to support COVID-19 preparedness, response and recovery efforts. Activities could include risk communication and community engagement, service provision and National Society preparedness.

Individuals wishing to become a Red Cross volunteer (they are always looking for new volunteers to assist those in their time of need) can email: vrs@redcross.ca.

In closing, never forget, we will get through this. See health updates on: WECHU.org.

Stay healthy, everyone!

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editorial viewpoint

Art Gallery Survives 20 Years Of Sacrifices

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

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“We’re the best we can be with the resources we have,” summarizes Catharine Mastin, outgoing Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW) Executive Director.

ime sneaks up on all of us. Can you believe the AGW will mark a 20 year milestone early next year? (Hopefully when COVID-19 is behind us and city-owned institutions have long been re-opened).

The $24 million building at 401 Riverside Drive West, opened on February 10, 2001.

A retrospective of the modern gallery sparks memories on how it all came together in a tangled Windsor fashion.

There were critics of the design regarding too much glass and windows surrounding a spine of grand public stairs, and not enough space to highlight paintings needing protection from sunlight.

Then there were people like Lois Smedick, the now deceased AGW President, who virtually lived on the site, supervising the fine points as it was being built.

She described it as “an architectural marvel both inside and out that is limitless in its potential.”

You can argue whether that lofty standard was met. Certainly the glass ship design is an imposing visual feature across from an international waterway. It is also true that ensuing events exposed structural and planning shortcomings.

“Building woes, as I call them,” muses Mastin.

The finished product engendered astronomical hydro bills and roof and glass sealant leaks that required retrofitting 12 years ago, funded by a Trillium grant.

Not enough foot traffic forced the closure of the gift shop and restaurant. Expectations of free parking, which is part of Windsor’s DNA, kept people away. It still does.

Attendance in 2019 was a dismal 13,883.

In 2015, attendance was 26,081, when parking and admission (now $10 for adults) was free while the Chimczuk Museum expansion was being constructed.

Today, the AGW and Chimczuk Museum (MuseumWindsor.ca) share only six free parking spaces as they compete for space with the abutting Adventure Bay Family Water Park.

Considering this, it is hard to deny that the AGW has paid its dues.

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According to Nataley Nagy (pictured) there were amazing exhibits at Devonshire Mall when the gallery was located there. Photo courtesy of the Kelowna Art Gallery.

“The Art Gallery has given tremendously to the community and has not really been recognized for it,” proclaims Mastin, who deserves heroic acclaim for nine dogged years of inspired leadership.

Mastin rhymes off multiple AGW contributions going back to the origins of the gallery by Founder Ken Saltmarche in Willistead Manor, in 1943. They included the establishment of “Art In The Park” and the move to the present riverfront site on Riverside Drive West in 1975.

Mastin points out the AGW played an essential part in the introduction of casino gambling to Windsor.

In 1993 the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) put out an RFP for a site to house an interim casino while it constructed the province’s first permanent casino at 377 Riverside Drive East.

The AGW won the competition under the stewardship of then Board President Ron Ianni, also deceased. He and Executive Director Nataley Nagy cut a sweetheart deal, renting its riverfront location to the province while the gallery was moved to B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • A P R IL / M A Y 2 0 2 0

Devonshire Mall for over six years. That rent was also absorbed by the province in negotiations including big shot cabinet ministers Ernie Eves and Jim Flaherty.

Nagy was just coming on board as Executive Director, from Toronto, and remembers insisting that the AGW be housed somewhere while it was displaced.

She asked board members to identify the most popular place in town and the answer came back — Devonshire Mall.

She insisted the gallery’s 4,000 permanent artworks be shipped, displayed and stored at the mall. That was virtual blasphemy to the highbrow old guard patrons, but not to the general public.

Nagy, today entrenched as the Executive Director of the Kelowna Art Gallery in B.C., remembers taking cab rides around Windsor, since she has never driven her own car, and conversations with the “Average Joe”.

“The worst thing you ever did was leave that mall,” was a common refrain she heard.

“It was pretty cool. Collection spaces were very visible and accessible. We had amazing exhibitions at that mall.”

Not to mention free parking and built in shopper traffic. In what turned into a real irony, the space at the mall was known as a black box, meaning no windows.

Once the casino vacated the downtown art gallery building, a Carling Brewery warehouse in an earlier life, another controversy arose. Mastin informs us that the old guard had a love-in with the Albert Kahn building and wanted it re-appointed.

It so happened that astute art gallery leaders wanted the deal with the OLG in the first place, because the existing building was a shambles.

“It needed a new roof and nobody was going to pay for it,” recalls Mastin.

The demolition die was cast. Architects R&P (Reich+Petch), in a joint venture with Moffat Kinoshita, were hired, with instructions to design a building with a mix of stone, glass and metal to create dramatic views of the Detroit and Windsor skylines, Dieppe Park and the Detroit River, and also to provide large spaces for art and events such as weddings and private parties. Toss in a green roof terrace.

Sixteen years later, along came an entirely new wrinkle — the $5.7 million Chimczuk Museum. After 25 years of acrimony and a court case over the meaning of Joseph Chimczuk’s will, the city was able to cobble together the money.

All but $405,000 was covered by the interest bearing will of $3.3 million, and a senior government grant to expand the space on the bottom floor, leaving only the top two floors and a mezzanine for the

gallery. The museum — which reported 2018 attendance at 14,717 — opened its doors in 2016.

Voila! Clustered with the ancient, lovable François Baby House at 254 Pitt Street West, Windsor had its long awaited cultural hub. And none of this could have happened without the sacrifice of the AGW, giving up its ground floor and trying to overcome the perception of social distancing.

For the staff of nine, the Chimczuk construction emanating from the main floor “sounded like a tornado going through Beirut,” reveals Mastin, who helped broker a life-saving sale of the AGW building to the city in 2013.

It had become clear that an annual city grant of $450,000 was not nearly enough.

The complex deal called for a purchase price of $2.5 million with the city taking over a $1.8 million mortgage plus funding for a laundry list of capital works.

In exchange, the AGW signed a 49 year lease at $1 a year. The city began paying all the utility bills — hydro, gas and water — and took over the tasks of facility cleaning, repairs and maintenance, landscaping and security.

Mastin’s team has kept the AGW debt free for the ensuing seven years on an annual operating budget of $1.3 million, and allowed the gallery to bolster its fundraising,

The Art Gallery of Windsor, hailed by one of its Toronto designers — R&P — as “a paradigm of a modern art gallery as a civic institution, a cultural beacon and architectural icon in the city centre.” Photo by Rod Denis.

sponsorships and program grants, plus outreach to educators and their students.

To make that happen, the unionized staff shrunk from 32, during the Nagy regime, to the current nine.

“We have no archivist, we are so short staffed,” Mastin laments.

I could go on to critique the current exhibitions and laud the depth and breadth of the AGW’s own collections — but I have

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run out of space. I suggest readers visit the AGW website (AGW.ca) to see what they offer, and then pay a visit to the gallery itself when the virus pandemic subsides. It’s bound to lift your spirits!

NEWS UPDATE . . . Hailing from the Dunlop Art Gallery in Regina, Jennifer Matotek has been appointed the new AGW Executive Director. She joined the gallery April 15, 2020.

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FRONTLINES New St. Clair Residence Guaranteed To Be A GEM

An artist’s rendering of the GEM Residence at St. Clair College is illustrated here, which will house 512 students, with five floors. Local firms Petretta Construction Inc. and Architecttura worked closely with Z Modular to develop one of the first modular student residences to be built in Canada.

Recognizing that Windsor faces a critical housing shortage, St. Clair College has developed a unique approach to solving a problem facing its growing international student population.

By the end of December, there will be a new 512-bed student residence on campus, built phase-by-phase within 45 days of the arrival of the initial modular unit.

“This welcome wave of newcomers desperately needs a home away from home and this new residence project will provide just that,” states St. Clair College President Patti France.

The $23 million project is a partnership involving St. Clair, Global Education Mihome (GEM) and the Z Modular Corporation, a subsidiary of Zekelman Industries, which is owned by the college’s corporate patrons Barry and Stephanie Zekelman.

“It’s a truly collaborative public/private sector effort,” adds Nancy Jammu-Taylor, Chairwoman of St. Clair College’s Board of Governors. “It will ease the stress of hundreds of our students as they find comfortable, convenient and affordable accommodations right on campus.”

The 296 individual modular units will be constructed in a factory and shipped to the site complete with plumbing, electrical systems and even furniture.

Once stacked and locked into place, under the supervision of Petretta Construction Inc., the interior systems will be connected, with occupancy expected in time for St. Clair’s 2020 winter semester. Architecttura is also on board as the architects and engineers responsible for the architectural design and civil, mechanical and electrical engineering on the project.

The first modular unit is scheduled to arrive on campus in late May. France indicates, “The innovative phase-byphase construction will provide a place for our

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On hand for the announcement on February 28 at the campus for the new residence from left were: John Wu of the GEM Corporation, which will manage the building; David Piccini, Parliamentary Assistant to Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities; St. Clair College President Patti France; Jonathon Lot of Petretta Construction, which will oversee the 45-day build; Rick Nicholls, MPP for Chatham-KentLeamington and Oliver Mason of Z Modular, which is building the individual modules. Photo by Dave Hall.

students to lay their heads, at a time when such accommodations are in short supply in this area.”

The GEM Student Residence at St. Clair will include 62 eight-bed units, four four-bed units, a common kitchen area, cafeteria, lounge and laundry spread out over five floors and almost 111,000 square feet.

“There’s been a dire need for on-campus housing where students are able to develop lifelong friendships,” says Kiara Clement, President of the college’s Student Representative Council. “We commend the administration and its project partners for recognizing this dire need and doing something to remedy this shortcoming.”

John Fairley, St. Clair’s Vice-President of Communications and Corporate Relations, points out that the project is believed to be the first of its kind in Canada.

Fairley informs Biz X that rental prices for the units are still to be determined.

“We’ll have a better idea when we start accepting applications for residency,” he indicates.

FRONTLINES

TAP Into Industry Experts To Build A Personalized Export Strategy The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced two new initiatives that will spur growth and productivity for businesses in our region.

And both programs are offered at very little cost, or even no cost at all!

“Enhancing productivity through efficient use of the most appropriate processes and technology is important, to remain competitive globally,” states WindsorEssex Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Rakesh Naidu.

“In today’s business environment tapping new markets, diversifying products and services, and remaining competitive has become more imperative than before. Our Chamber recognizes this and offers two new programs to assist our Members to become more productive by leveraging technology and increase exports by tapping new international markets.”

The “Trade Accelerator Program” (TAP) is a series of intensive hands-on workshops and seminars designed to help established companies, in any sector, scale up and develop and execute a strategic Export Plan.

TAP provides companies with access to Canada’s top exporting advisors, resources and contacts, giving the training and support they need to be successful on an international scale.

Although TAP has had previous cohorts in 11 cities across Canada including London, Kitchener, Niagara and Toronto, this is the first time the program will be offered in Windsor Essex. TAP operates in conjunction with the World Trade Centre Toronto and the Toronto Region Board of Trade, with support from national partners EDC, BDC, RBC and Air Canada Cargo.

The initial two day seminar is now rescheduled due to COVID-19 to January 19 and 20, 2021. Presentation topics include: finances and banking, accounting, grants and government assistance, international law and tax, supply chain management, international sales, marketing and success stories from TAP graduates (over 800 companies are graduates of the Trade Accelerator Program).

The “Export Plan Day” is scheduled for January 26, 2021 while the final “Mentoring Day” is February 24, 2021 where the export plan is reviewed in a one-on-one setting.

All sessions are held at the Institute for Border Logistics and Security on Wheelton Drive in Windsor. Normally

a $5,000 value, TAP is being offered to qualifying companies (15 to 25 companies can be accommodated) in any sector, for just $495.

Results from the TAP program are impressive, with graduates realizing a 38% average growth in export sales, while 51% of companies hired new staff and 86% entered new markets.

The Chamber’s other new program announcement is in conjunction with FedDevOntario and Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters — the “Technology Assessment Program” allows small and medium-sized enterprises in the manufacturing sector to enhance their growth and competitiveness.

Eligible businesses will receive a fully funded assessment by a vetted technical Qualified Service Provider valued at up to $25,000. Recommended actions from the assessment include quality and productivity improvements and technology adoption.

FedDev Ontario’s support for the entire Technology Assessment Program across Southern Ontario is expected to generate up to $40 million in follow-on investments.

A maximum of 35 participating companies in Windsor Essex will connect and work (starting in late August 2020) with their chosen consultant to conduct a productivity assessment on their own schedule through 2022.

To qualify, companies must have between 15 to 500 employees, be incorporated for more than two years and be involved in operations to produce or support products and services related to manufacturing, processing, fabricating or refining.

There is no cost to participate, and aside from submitting program updates at benchmark intervals through 2022, there are no specific dates for the program to be executed within each manufacturing operation.

“We encourage businesses in the Windsor Essex region to take advantage of the new programs,” Naidu expresses.

To register for the Trade Accelerator Program or for more information on the Technology Assessment Program, visit: WindsorEssexChamber.org.

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HEARD ON THE STREET Petretta Construction remains one of the busiest builders in the area with a pair of condo projects on the go as well as a hotel on Amy Croft Drive and three restaurants on an adjoining property. One of the condos is located on Old Tecumseh Road in Russell Woods alongside Pike Creek. The fivestorey Harbour Club condominium community will have underground parking and feature 64 units ranging in price from $600,000 to over $2 million. The first-floor suites will have 12-foot ceilings, on the second through fourth floors, the ceilings will be nine-feet high and the fifth floor will have 10-foot ceilings. All will have views of either a canal on the north side or Pike Creek on the south and east sides. The building also includes a fitness facility and party room. In LaSalle, at the corner of Huron Church Line Road and Sandwich Parkway West, Petretta is planning another five-floor condo, again with 64 units but ranging in price from the low $300,000s to the low $400,000s. The condos will have one or two bedrooms or two-bedrooms plus a den and range from 900 square feet to over 1,200 square feet.

Chef Ted Dimoglu has closed Tiki Sushi on Erie Street and is concentrating all his efforts on growing his business out of its new location at Mercato Fresh at 725 Grand Avenue West in Chatham. Dimoglu explained the decision on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “As you may well know, I’ve been burning the candle at both ends these last couple of weeks with the opening of Mercato Fresh,” says Dimoglu. “It’s become increasingly clear that a decision had to be made for the sake of my family, sanity and health.”

Dimoglu adds that closing his Erie Street location at the end of February was not a decision he took lightly and he thanked his customers for their support. Meanwhile, business has exploded at the market and Dimoglu says he sold more sushi in his first 10 days than he did in 10 weeks on Erie Street. He plans to expand his business with more locations and may return to Windsor one day.

Mercato Fresh, which sells fresh produce, fruit, meat and baked goods, is owned by Mark Romualdi, who also owns M.R. Meats and Chophaus Meats & Deli, and Jonathan Reaume, who owns the Toscana BreakfastLunch-Cafe, all in Windsor. Romualdi plans to open Mercato Fresh locations in Windsor and LaSalle within the next couple of years. For more info, visit these websites: MercatoFresh.com, ChophausMeats.ca or ToscanaWindsor.com.

A new Indian restaurant opened April 8 in the former Webb’s Steak Seafood Burgers and Bar and before that, The RyeGate at 1640 Lesperance Road at the intersection with E.C. Row Expressway. Owners of India ’47 Restaurant and Bar couldn’t be reached for comment before press time, but on the restaurant’s Facebook page, it indicated the restaurant would be serving “authentic Indian cuisine curated with only the freshest and highest quality ingredients.” The ’47 reference in the restaurant’s name likely refers to the Partition of India of 1947 which marked the division of British India into two independent dominion states, the Union of India and the Dominion of Pakistan.

Windsor entrepreneur Vern Myslichuk still hopes to find a solution to city zoning issues so he can open the Low-Martin House (which he purchased in 2012) to occasionally host public gatherings such as fundraisers, weddings and other events. “The problem is the house doesn’t fit into any zoning category that would allow for occasional use,” states Myslichuk. “I don’t want a complete zoning change otherwise I couldn’t live there and that’s not my intention.” Myslichuk says he assumes owners of other houses, even in surrounding communities are facing similar issues and he’s hoping for some feedback so he can show the spectacular home to anyone who wants to see it. At a recent court hearing, a bylaw charge of operating a public house in

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contravention of zoning bylaws was dismissed.

“Right now it’s in limbo and that’s not where I want it to be,” he adds. The 4,800 square foot home at 2021 Ontario Street, was once home to Paul Martin Sr. and his family. Myslichuk also owns Better Made Cabinets (3275 Odessa Drive, Tecumseh); Bacchus Ristorante (614 Erie Street East); Verna-Q-Lar Cocktail Lounge (614 Erie Street East) and the Shred Shop Wellness Complex (815 Erie Street East), a fitness and wellness centre. For more information, visit: LowMartinMansion.com or ShredShop.ca.

Thomson Baking Company (website: ThomsonBakingCompany.com), a successful Windsor bakery, is in the middle of renovating new premises at 1398 Ottawa Street. “There’s a lot work of work to be done to get it ready,” admits Suzanne Thomson who owns the bakery along with husband Jay. “We’re not entirely sure yet whether we will open it as a second location, or simply move.” Their current bakery, which opened in 2015, is located at 1030 Walker Road.

The Thomsons began baking, keto-friendly, gluten-free, vegan and regular baked goods out of their home in 2002, before making the leap to a bricks-and-mortar building 13 years later.

There is no date set yet for the opening on Ottawa Street.

Rumours that Yum! Brands (Yum.com), a global restaurant business, is shuffling its Windsor deck appear to be just that for the moment — rumours. Facing stiff competition from the likes of Mary Brown's Chicken & Taters and Popeyes, a few Biz X readers asked us to investigate if two KFC restaurants in Windsor are closing, while a new one may surface in Forest Glade or the Fontainebleau area. Or maybe the potential closures of certain locations with an older facade are just moves to a new spot with a modern look? Yum!, based in Louisville Kentucky, owns Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell franchises.

There are currently eight KFC, five Taco Bell and three Pizza Hut franchises in the Windsor Essex area. Yum! owns 50,000 restaurants in 150 countries. Company representatives couldn’t be reached for comment before press time, but we are not reading anything in to this as most likely they were dealing with important COVID-19 issues. We’ll just have to try again later!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Bringing you all the action in the region since 1998.

To view more events visit: BizXmagazine.com

was there!

The hall was packed on March 6, 2020 with over 300 women in attendance for the “International Women’s Day Honouring Women” event organized by the Ladies Auxiliary of St. Nicholas Macedonian Church, 5225 Howard Avenue, LaSalle. Photographed here, in front of a Mediterranean fresco, are a few members of the auxiliary, from left: Erika Szita, Liljana Djurovic, Dr. Elizabeth Taleski, Catharina Marentette (event emcee), Kathlyn Boros, Xiao Li and Vera Najdovska. These ladies are wearing fashions from Anne’s on the Avenue (1695 Manning Road, Tecumseh) and Vene Concept (14306 Tecumseh Road, Unit 3, Tecumseh). More on right page

“International Women’s Day Honouring Women” photos

by Josie Elysia.

On February 28, 2020 Tabone Insurance Brokers officially opened their doors with a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house at their Windsor offices, 3012 Tecumseh Road East, Unit B, near Tim Hortons. One good sign you are off on the right foot is having the support of the city and its related partner organizations. From left are: Jesmond Tabone, Co-owner of Tabone Insurance Brokers; Keith Chinnery, Director of Membership Services, Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce; Ed Sleiman, City of Windsor Ward 5 Councillor; Paul Mann, Co-owner of Tabone Insurance Brokers; and John Newland, Sales and Project Manager, Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Stella Ciancio, Owner of Stellar Design and Social Graphic Designs was on hand to congratulate Jesmond Tabone, Co-owner of Tabone Insurance, on the grand opening of his brokerage, at the February event. Ciancio was responsible for the design and look of the logo and promotional materials for her client, Tabone Insurance Brokers, which began December 2019.

Tabone Insurance photos by Rod Denis.

Also present for this event was Biz X Sales Representative Shelley Oswald, pictured here with business partners Jesmond Tabone (left) and Paul Mann of Tabone Insurance Brokers.

The men hope to employ 50 people over the next two years and Oswald is more than happy to help them realize their marketing and business goals. The brokerage can offer clients a list of comprehensive insurance solutions for home, auto, life, commercial, transportation/ logistics and group rates to meet their needs at a reasonable cost. See: TaboneInsurance.com for further details.

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The "International Women’s Day Honouring Women" evening’s agenda included dinner, inspirational guest speakers and a fashion show. Having a little fun in the dressing room before showcasing their outfits provided by Vene Concept, along with its store owner, are models from left: Lidia Hristovski, Duka Stranatik, Veneta Petrusevski (Vene Concept owner), Kathlyn Boros, Slavica Glisik and Snezana Djurovic.

“International Women’s Day Honouring Women” yearly fashion show choreographer Liljana Djurovic (centre) is surrounded by models ready to hit the runway wearing pieces from Upcoming Clothing (406-2175 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor).

From left: Katerina Ristancev, Teodora Taleski, Aleksandra Todorovski and Julia Dragan.

Larissa Cannon (left) and Ashley Dawson (centre) from the Welcome Centre Shelter for Women, were joined by local author and guest speaker Jenn Sadai at the “International Women’s Day Honouring Women” celebration held March 6. A portion of the proceeds from the evening’s events were donated to the Shelter — $1,500 to be exact! Congrats to all who helped make this happen!

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO . . .

Mastro Kitchen Studio, a leader in the local kitchen and bath cabinetry industry is proudly celebrating 10 years transforming spaces into distinctive masterpieces, in 2020. Senior designer and owner Vito Mastrorocco, with over 34 years industry experience, wishes to thank past customers for their trust in his company and invites future customers to visit the ever-changing showroom located at 2863 Howard Avenue, Windsor. Mastro Kitchen Studio specializes in custom cabinetry for your kitchen, bath, bar, walk-in closet, home office and more. Each room is analyzed for the best combination of function and form. Cabinets are meticulously designed down to door style detail and custom colour. For the latest kitchen ideas and further information visit: MastroKitchenStudio.com.

This year, Tepperman’s — the family-owned and proudly Canadian home furniture, mattress, appliance and electronics retailer — celebrates 95 years of providing exemplary service and quality furnishings to the families of Southwestern Ontario. With six large format retail stores across Southwestern Ontario (Windsor, London, Chatham, Kitchener, Sarnia and recently, Ancaster), Tepperman’s has burgeoned from a small family business to one of Ontario’s leading furniture retailers.

Tepperman’s was founded in 1925 when Nate Tepperman immigrated to Canada from Europe at the age of 20 and began selling rugs, door to door. He carved out a unique niche in the marketplace by selling items on credit and collecting payment in installments. This model remained a key part of Tepperman’s success for nearly 100 years. Today, Tepperman’s is one of the only home furnishings retailers in North America to offer in-house credit. Andrew

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Tepperman, President of Tepperman’s states “95 years ago, Nate and Rose Tepperman created a foundation that Bill and Rochelle Tepperman strengthened, and this has continued to be transformed by the third generation, alongside an incredible team.”

He adds, “As we’ve grown, we haven’t lost sight of our guiding principles and our commitment to our communities.” As part of its legacy, Tepperman’s has also been recognized for its contributions and support to environmental and community outreach programs. Corporate social responsibility is a focus at Tepperman’s, a commitment that has driven the company towards adopting practices to ensure a sustainable and responsible future. Learn more online at: Teppermans.com.

Happy 25th anniversary to The Cabinet Studio (Canada) Inc. owners Tereza and Leigh Ann Hello, 2014 Biz X Award winners for “The Mobile Biz That’s Going Places.”

The mother and daughter “dynamic duo” provide indoor/outdoor kitchen cabinetry and kitchen design services. “We feel we are blessed because of our dedicated and loyal clients and referrals and are successful because we have stayed committed to them by offering premium designs and only the best products available,” expresses Leigh Ann. To view photos of their work log on to: TheCabinetStudio.ca.

ON THE MOVE Eyes on Site 4 U has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association (NationalHomeWatchAssociation.org). The association was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for “Home Watch” and absentee

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homeowner services, throughout the United States and Canada. Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues, functioning as a service that “keeps an eye on things” at a vacation or primary home, while the owners are not in residence. Based in Kingsville, Eyes on Site 4 U, Owner and Director Nick Diniro offers over 30 years’ experience in the construction industry as a business owner, master plumber, and general contractor of new construction and renovations. More than three years ago he partnered with Tasha Slater (a Windsor area REALTOR for over 15 years), to establish the company. They identified a need within Slater’s clientele base (now through Jump Realty) who had no-one they could trust to watch their homes while away. It has been the perfect marriage between Diniro’s decades in construction and the requirement for consumers to have a trusted, skilled, and reliable source to watch their homes. Eyes on Site 4 U eliminates the stress and worry for their clients by protecting their single largest investment. Bonded and insured, Eyes on Site 4 U serves Windsor and all of Essex County. View more details on the two owners on their website: EyesOnSite4U.com.

HALL OF FAME Electrozad has been recognized for overall business performance and sustained growth with the prestigious “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” designation. Now in its 27th year, “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” is one of the country’s leading business awards programs recognizing Canadian-owned and managed companies for innovative, world-class business practices. This award marks the third

consecutive year the company has earned the designation, having first been acknowledged in 2018. Electrozad was selected for their commitment to service excellence, business diversification, modern marketing strategies and their focus on corporate culture and employee development. “We’re honoured to have been selected for this award, which reinforces the emphasis we have placed on long-term business strategies and strengthening our competitive advantage,” says William Smith, President of Electrozad.

“We’re supported by an accomplished team that has been instrumental in our success, and we’re fortunate to have strong vendor and customer partnerships that drive our business forward.” The announcement was made as Electrozad marks their 65th year of business.

Established in 1955, Electrozad was the first independent electrical distributor in Windsor and the first distributor of Allen-Bradley automation products in Eastern Canada.

The company has thrived on a culture of innovation, and continues to support their customer’s electrical and automation projects with industry leading products, services, and solutions. The Windsor office is situated at 2900 Jefferson Blvd., and further information on the company and their Ontario locations can be found on: Electrozad.com.

Encore Productions of Windsor is proud to announce the Rum Runners Tour has been awarded Trip Advisor’s “Hall of Fame” Award. This award honours tourism businesses that have earned a “Certificate of Excellence” for at least five consecutive years. “Earning the Hall of Fame award is a reflection of the passion we put into the Rum Runners Tour,” says founder Mark Baker.

“I am very proud of the trust our visitors place in us and appreciate the time they take to write reviews. We have been ranked #1 for the past 11 years, but this award shows that the Rum Runners Tour is not just a popular choice, but a truly exceptional one that travellers from all over Canada and the United States come to Windsor to enjoy.”

Based on millions of reviews and opinions from travellers on the biggest travel review website in the world, this annual award is the highest accolade Trip Advisor offers and recognises the very best tourism companies in terms of service, quality, and customer satisfaction. The Rum Runners Tour is a theatrical bus tour in which eight costumed characters tell the story of prohibition and bootlegging in Windsor and Detroit during the “Roaring ‘20s”. It includes lunch at a re-enacted speakeasy with live musical and comedic performances. Purchase your tickets online at: RumRunnersTour.com.

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Ontario Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) recently announced the 2020 “Top 100 Festivals and Events” in Ontario. Submissions from FEO members were received for consideration in the fall of 2019 and were judged by an independent panel of judges. Festivals and events of all kinds from every corner of Ontario were represented in the submissions — from community festivals to internationally recognized events. Congratulations to the following events in the southwest Ontario tourism region: “Amherstburg River Lights Winter Festival” (VisitAmherstburg.ca); “Carrousel of Nations” (see the website: CarrouselofNations.com); the “Tecumseh Corn Festival” (see the website: TecumsehCornFestival.ca); “LaSalle Strawberry Festival” (LaSalle.ca) and “Chatham Retrofest” (DowntownChatham.com). In addition the Paradalis family earned the 2020 “Family Volunteer of the Year” award for “Carrousel of the Nations”. Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers and “Carrousel of the Nations” received the “Best New Single Sponsorship Opportunity”. To view a list of all provincial winners go to: FestivalsAndEventsOntario.ca/about/feoaward-recipients.

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Grill Twenty 20 University Avenue East, Windsor

By David Clark

W

ith a burgeoning restaurant industry coming back to the core, downtown Windsor has created yet another gem right in the middle of it all.

Since the 1950s, the United Grill — situated at 20 University Avenue East — fed the masses for years, but closed in recent years and has now been recreated into the new place to be!

Since July of 2018, Grill Twenty (no current website) was reinvented in that location with a new modern industrial look featuring great customer service and an incredible menu to start the day with.

At this time, the Grill is one of the best kept secrets around, offering one of the most impressive breakfast menus available with most of the selections served all day.

Of course, there is also a stellar lunch menu

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The Veggie Breakfast Poutine is a colourful medley of grilled potatoes, wilted spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers and mozzarella topped with scrambled egg, pesto hollandaise sauce and green onion.

Photo by David Clark.

for your midday eats and the restaurant can accommodate 80 guests.

These comprehensive menus boast the tons of choices, substitutions and dishes

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that keep customers craving for more.

When you search both menus, expect to find vegetarian, gluten free, vegan and Keto selections — the complete package.

According to Co-Owner/Operator, Nichole Demers: “We are not looking to re-invent the wheel. We are looking to give you the best food at a reasonable price, offering unique ways on the menu to make it your own by substituting items and such.”

Also at the helm, Co-Owner/Operator Mark DeBlock tends to the tables and is hands-on, running things with Demers at the Grill, day in and day out.

Some of the breakfast items are classics, whereas others are unique, and there sure is an abundance of them!

Always a favourite, the Traditional Breakfast has your eggs front and centre,

Get bright-eyed and bushy tailed with the Traditional Breakfast featuring eggs, meat, potatoes, baked beans and toast. Photo courtesy of Nichole Demers.

surrounded by meat, potatoes (cheddar, bacon, and onions or garlic parmesan), baked beans and toast.

An exotic choice for certain, the Veggie Breakfast Poutine is a standout comfort food topped with scrambled eggs and grilled potatoes and loaded with your favourite veggies and Hollandaise sauce.

The Salted Caramel Banana French Toast, a popular sweet tooth item, is more a treat than just your basic breakfast item.

It is three pieces of cinnamon French toast, topped with fresh bananas, house-made chocolate ganache, salted caramel sauce, and whipped cream. Dig in!

When you pop in for your morning eats, you will also see the self-serve, all-day coffee bar too.

Moving into your lunch selections, there are just as many quality choices to tease those diners with a discerning palette.

The 8 oz. burgers are packed high with items to make your mouth water, including lettuce, tomato, and pickle, and served on a toasted kaiser. You can have a choice of fries, coleslaw or soup.

Seven signature burgers are available, including the popular Roasted Red Pepper Burger with mozzarella and red pepper ranch. Feel free to add your favourite toppings, the menu probably has them.

For a meal in itself, take a look at the French Onion Soup for a lighter all around dish. For larger appetites, the Chicken Rancher Wrap is chicken fingers in buffalo sauce, crispy bacon, tomato, lettuce, carrots, cheddar and ranch.

“Also, I love when the Chicken Melt goes on special,” Demers expresses. “It needs to hit the menu.”

Up and coming healthy lunch selections are the Keto burgers and for the early starter, the Keto breakfast is now available.

For a more significant offering, Grill Twenty wants everyone to know, that yes, they can cater! They can accommodate 80 for onsite special events or come to your location for larger parties.

Your menu for the event can be customized or you may choose something already prepared to be served.

The Grill is really pushing its charity events too, giving back when they can.

Recently, their “Dine 2 Donate” is a

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Rev your engine with the Roasted Red Pepper Burger, fully loaded with all your favourite toppings!

Photo courtesy of Nichole Demers.

three course meal for $40 with $10 going to a charity. Other ongoing fundraisers are for groups like TLC Animal Aid and Windsor Residence for Young Men. Wrapping up, Demers points out, “We are not looking to compete and be the only one (place to eat). One person alone can never survive. We just do our best to be a part of the team downtown and keep putting out the best possible product on your plate every time.”

For hours of operation (during COVID-19 restrictions only take-out is offered), menus and food offers, check Facebook under “Grill Twenty.”

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COVER STORY By Dave Hall

A Moving Experience

Pack It Up, Store It, Purge It, And More S

elling a home your family has lived in for years and looking for something new in a completely different neighbourhood or even city/town, can be a time-consuming, emotional process for everyone involved.

Finding a new school and making new friends, meeting new neighbours, deciding what to keep and what to throw away is all part of the equation for families making a move across Windsor and Essex County.

But, there are ways to help the transition go as smoothly as possible.

At Biz X magazine, we spoke to experts from the real estate industry; movers who have been packing, transporting and unpacking furniture for decades; people who specialize in de-cluttering and downsizing and people who can help you decide what to keep, what to recycle and what to discard.

All of them have one common piece of advice — the more organized you are, the better the move will go.

Seller’s Market Or Buyer’s Market?

It was most definitely a seller’s market in the Windsor Essex region (before the COVID-19 shutdown), according to an experienced Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Capital Diamond Realty (Unit C-2451 Dougall Avenue, Windsor; REMAX519.com and JimBroad.ca).

“It’s 100 percent a seller’s market and it’s difficult for a buyer to get in,” believes

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Aleks Moving is ready to move you and your family forward, be it to a new home, transporting your goods to a storage unit, or even giving you a hand with packing tape! All of their movers are properly trained with the latest in equipment and safety. On site, unloading a customer’s boxes for a new home in Belle River, from left are: Joseph Muciqi, Eric B. and owner Aleks Coku. Photo by Rod Denis.

Jim Broad. “Of course, once you sell you become a buyer yourself, unless you’re downsizing or going to an apartment.”

The Windsor-Essex County Association of REALTORS (WindsorRealEstate.com) released its monthly report showing that listings for March 2020 were up by 10.71 percent to 796, compared to 719 in March of 2019.

At the time of this report there were 934

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available listings with 489 properties sold in March 2020 (down 9.44% compared to March 2019 when 540 properties were sold).

The average sales price for March 2020 was $357,874. The average sales price for March 2019 was $333,039.

The most popular style of homes sold this month were: bungalow (104) followed by ranch (79), two-storey (72), 1.5- storey (63) and raised ranch (55).

In such a growing marketplace, by Windsor standards at least, Broad advises his clients to find their new home before completing the sale of their existing property so they know exactly what they are getting into financially.

“They need to get their finances organized before making the leap,” Broad stresses.

“They need to be sure they qualify for bridge financing and once all that is in place, it’s time to look for something new.”

And to help that sale move smoothly through the process, Broad offers a number of tips, including leaving enough time to make whatever changes or updates you need to make to your former home.

“I make an initial visit, take some photos, assess the home and then I go away to prepare a report before returning and making suggestions such as painting or updating countertops in the kitchen,” explains Broad.

De-cluttering is also a key element in showing a home to its best advantage as well as moving out furniture that creates an impediment to smooth and easy access.

“If you have to step around an ottoman, move it so that people don’t see it as an obstacle,” he says. “Arrange your closets so they don’t look packed and cluttered because prospective buyers need to think there’s ample room for everything they will be bringing.

Perception is so important and you need to

Jim Broad, a Real Estate Sales Representative with RE/MAX Capital Diamond Realty, suggests his clients find their new residence before completing the sale of their current home, to make sure all the financial details are in place before they move. Photo by Dave Hall.

create a perception that your home is a blank canvas just waiting for a new occupant.”

Broad mentions he handles all the paperwork required to sell a home and works with buyers to make sure that transition works smoothly as well.

“It’s a difficult time, especially for children, but if families include good schools among

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their reasons for locating in a particular neighbourhood, that can go a long way towards making it easier,” adds Broad.

“I Like To Move It, Move It”

The more organized you are, the faster and more efficiently the move will go, according to Glen Cook, owner of Glen’s Moving Ltd.

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Operating for the past 44 years, Glen Cook, owner of Glen’s Moving Ltd., offers residential and commercial moving services throughout Windsor and Essex County. Whether it is a partial move, local or long distance in Ontario, a stress free move is always his goal. Photo by Rod Denis.

Operating from 4080 North Service Road East, Windsor (GlensMoving.ca), they've been in business for more than 40 years.

Cook says the first step for a move is to request an assessment of the amount of furniture and possessions, so the right size van can be reserved and sufficient time set aside on the day of the actual move.

“We can provide packing materials, but we can also do the packing if people prefer that we handle it,” Cook notes. “We suggest people label every box, so when it comes time to unpack, they can just unpack what they need on that particular day.”

Cook recommends using newsprint rather than bubble wrap, because the former conforms to the shape of the item being wrapped and it isn’t as bulky and won’t take up as much space in the packing boxes.

Clients are also urged to keep a set-up box handy for smaller items such as couch casters, screwdrivers, labelling materials, phones, TV remotes or anything else that runs

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the risk of being misplaced during the move.

Cook suggests important items such as papers, documents, jewellery and medication be packed away in the client’s trunk before the movers even arrive, so it won’t get mixed up with everything else.

Franko Coku, Manager of Aleks Moving, (966 Lakeview Drive, Windsor; AleksMoving.ca), a franchise which was established in Windsor in 2007, offers customers a flat rate rather than an hourly fee, once the job has been assessed.

“Every move is different and we need to assess the amount of material that needs moving before we can quote a price,” explains Coku. “Downsize first and get rid of what you are not taking to your new home and then we can accurately quote on the job.”

Coku also advises packing valuables and medications separately so that nothing gets misplaced during the move.

“We handle the pickup and delivery and we suggest that our clients provide their own

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supplies such as boxes, tape and newsprint from a place like Home Depot,” he says.

Back to advice from Glen Cook of Glen’s Moving, clients should make sure their mover is bonded and fully-insured before signing on for a move.

“We suggest our customers prepare a list of question to ask before they book,” says Cook.

“Ask about insurance and whether or not the company is bonded, ask about timelines and book early.”

Cook indicates his company often takes bookings six months ahead of a move and if anything changes in the interim, changes to the schedule can always be made.

Moving can be frustrating and the more organized a client is, the better the move will go.

Of course, if you’re willing to do it yourself there are a number of U-Haul (website: Uhaul.com) locations around the region that can provide packing supplies, storage or moving vans and trailers.

“The best advice I can give is to book ahead because you can always change the date if you’re not ready,” states Sarmad Najim, General Manager of U-Haul’s locations at 2890 Dougall Avenue and 815 Sydney Avenue in Windsor. “And make sure you have enough boxes because it’s easier to bring extras back for a refund than to find yourself scrambling on moving day.”

U-Haul sells boxes designed for items such as dishes, mirrors, clothes, televisions, electronics and household appliances and belongings.

“It’s less expensive and we’re finding that more and more people are interested in doing it themselves,” he notes.

U-Haul also has storage areas at both locations so people can store their belongings if their new home or apartment isn’t ready for occupancy.

Najim says his company also works with local businesses, which are looking for a place to store files and business records.

Both locations are fully insured with locks and alarms to keep stored items safe.

Sometimes, Less Is More

Danielle Carriere, owner of ONESource Moving Solutions for Seniors, Professionals and Families feels moving, can be an extremely emotional experience especially if it’s accompanied by down-sizing and de-personalizing.

“Sometimes it’s easier when someone is with you,” says Carriere. “We recommend that people downsize before they move and to make sure they keep items that mean something to them.”

She adds, “And each family member may have a different idea of what’s important to them and it’s important that the loved one’s voice be heard so they are making the decisions.”

ONESource (see: OneSourceForSeniors.ca and OneSourceMoving.ca) provides a host of services for clients, including packing and unpacking, full unpack and set-up service, including hanging art and setting up electronics in a new home, taking care of change of address issues and discarding packing supplies when unpacking.

“We provide our clients with a package of information, including all the phone numbers they will need to help make the changes easy, we will help with this if the client is in need of assistance,” Carriere explains. “We specialize in senior moves,

Sarmad Najim, General Manager of two U-Haul locations in the city, says that even if his customers buy too many boxes and return some for a refund, that’s preferable to scrambling to find extra packing cases on moving day.

Photo by Dave Hall.

professional organizing, household downsizing, and estate dispersals and so much more... We take the stress out of changing your address.”

Carriere says that ONESource services clients in Windsor/Essex County, Chatham, Hamilton, Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge, Brantford and St. Catharines-Niagara, as well as surrounding communities.

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Jan Bateman, who, along with husband Danny, owns Batemans Make Your Move in Leamington, also helps clients de-clutter and downsize prior to completing their move. (Learn more on Facebook under “Batemans Make Your Move”).

“When you’re showing your home, prospective buyers want to see size when they enter a room and not see chairs

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everywhere,” she says. “We recommend that people start packing early and don’t wait until the last minute.”

Bateman also suggests that people facing a move pack items they aren’t currently using, but still want to keep so the process can begin early.

“Don’t look at the entire job because that can be overwhelming,” she offers as some good advice. “Take it one cupboard or one closet at a time and perhaps start with the high shelves in a kitchen because that’s where most people keep stuff they don’t use very often.”

Store It Until You Need It

Sometimes, storing household goods prior to a move is the best way to handle the uncertainty of relocating.

At Guardian Storage (website: Guardian-Storage.com), the company not only has storage units at its locations in Windsor (5505 Rhodes Drive) and Lakeshore (472 Blanchard Drive), but also can provide a portable container that is delivered to your home or business and then taken away once it has been filled.

“It’s the latest trend in moving and downsizing,” explains Carol Kowalski, Guardian’s Sales Manager. “We can drop the container in your driveway and then take it away to your new location or back to one of our sites for storage until you need it again.”

Kowalski points out that Guardian also has a selection of boxes, containers and bubble wrap in stock, to help the packing run smoothly.

“Our sites have a 24-hour gate access system and 24-7 video surveillance,” says Kowalski. “Our clients include people who are moving from one home to another, as well as businesses that are relocating or need extra space.”

Guardian also offers on-site parking for boats, campers, vehicles and RVs. Another local company, Portable Storage (3955 County Road 42, Windsor; PortableStorage.ca/moving), offers similar services for people making the move to a new home or business location.

According to Jake Neufeld, Sales and Marketing Associate for the company that also has locations in Chatham and Sarnia: “We offer standard storage units, but our containers are becoming more popular for people who want to pack all their items into one large unit and have it moved to a new residence or business location. It’s a fast-growing part of our business and we recommend that people contact us and make reservations for a container well ahead of moving day. We also suggest that people do as much down-sizing and de-cluttering as possible ahead of the move, so they’re not storing items they are going to end up getting rid of later.”

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Carol Kowalski, Sales Manager of Guardian Storage, wants potential customers to know the company’s storage bins, which can be dropped off for filling and then moved to a new location, are becoming more and more popular for people and businesses moving locations. Photo by Dave Hall.

Use It Or Lose It

There are a number of local companies that help people dispose of unwanted items ahead of their move, so they aren’t paying to move something they will later toss out.

Chris Lucier, a Manager at familyowned Countryside Disposal (website: CountrysideDisposal.com), 7013 Smith Industrial Drive in Amherstburg, says that moving and down-sizing can be emotional, especially for seniors. His advice is for people to handle it themselves before circumstances change and family members have to take on the project.

“We suggest our clients take an inventory of what they are disposing of so they can book the right size bin,” explains Lucier. “We recommend they break down any furniture they can to maximize space in the bin.”

Lucier adds that clients should place mattresses on top of the pile at the end because they will take up less space that way.

Clients are also urged to organize their possessions into four categories — recycle, disposal, donate and keep — which will make the process easier to handle in as short a time as possible.

One of the biggest mistakes people make before they move is underestimating the amount of material they are going to throw away, says Ron Monaghan, Owner and Operator of Bin There, Dump That, a nationally-franchised company (WindsorBinRental.com).

“You’re better off having extra space in the bin than having to call us back for another one because then the clock starts all over again,” advises Monaghan. “If all you have are some small items, one of our smaller bins would be enough, but if there’s furniture,

Bin There Dump That serves Windsor and the surrounding area and works with homeowners, contractors or anyone looking for a solution to get rid of unwanted garbage or junk. The bright green bins are available in different sizes and are in great condition and can be placed in your driveway. Photo courtesy of Ronald Robinson.

I’d recommend a larger one so it can all be tossed at once.”

Organization is also the name of the game for Eric Morin, Owner of JunkGone Services (JunkGoneServices.com).

“If you haven’t used something in a year, get rid of it,” suggests Morin. “And if you can have it all sorted out ready for pick up, that would help, but if you’d rather just point to stuff, we can do it that way as well.”

JunkGone will take away everything except chemical waste, which is left as the responsibility of the client.

Morin informs Biz X that one of the company’s 10 cubic yard bin trailers would be plenty for most residential disposal projects.

Kevin Murray is in his seventh year of operating a Just Junk (JustJunk.com) B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • A P R IL / M A Y 2 0 2 0

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While you might think you can take everything you have with you when you leave an old home for a brand new one, it’s probably best to leave the past behind. If you are planning a move use this good opportunity to either donate to a local charity or have a junk removal company pick up what you no longer need — before you pack it away in a box. Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/urfingus.

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franchise locally and he recommends home owners leave the bulk of the work to his employees.

“A lot of times, we show up and a lot of the work has been done and we always suggest they leave it to us,” he points out.

“What can take a home owner, particularly if they’re elderly, a couple of weeks to sort out, our guys can do in a few hours and it’s all included in our pricing.”

Murray also advises prospective customers book early and be as organized as possible by sorting items for three destinations — landfill, recycle or donate.

“Instead of dropping items off at a charity, we have a massive yard sale at out warehouse every summer and then we donate all the proceeds to a local charity,” says Murray.

“Clients we’ve spoken with like the idea and seem happy with that solution.”

As for the future of his business, Murray doesn’t believe Just Junk Windsor will ever run out of customers.

“It’s sustainable because people are always accumulating stuff they will eventually throw out,” he remarks. “It’s human nature.”

As you have just read, not only is clearing out the clutter a necessary task before a move, but even if you are staying put in your current home, it’s a good idea to dump your junk during spring cleaning.

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Clean those closets and garage now while you can! Yes that’s right, we're looking at you!

Places accepting items that are no longer needed are, Goodwill Industries and the Society of Saint Vincent De Paul for clothes, whereas Habitat for Humanity can take furniture, appliances and more.

It’s Time To Move Along

Moving can be a difficult, time-consuming and frustrating experience.

However, if you’re organized and ready to make some difficult decisions, it just might run smoothly after all.

But, when moving day finally arrives, don’t forget to bring the family dog along with all your boxes!

We are sure our helpful tips in this cover story, from all the business profiled here, will help you make a move in the right direction.

Now, start packing!

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ask the experts

Absolutely Floored By Floor Coverings International

By Dave Halliday

Choosing a floor that fits your lifestyle, budget and existing issues can be overwhelming. The team at Floor Coverings International, pictured inside their showroom from left — Sales/Design Associates Lorraine Whalen; Danielle Wellings-Carriere; Owners Denise and Bill Wellings Pam Wellings-Kasana (also Interior Design); Terri Malton and Kathy Dresser — can help make the decisions less stressful and even enjoyable.

Photo by Rod Denis.

Y

ou love your new home. It’s in a great neighbourhood. The layout is exactly what you were looking for during your extensive hunt and you’ve settled in nicely since the move date.

However, there are things requiring repair, upgrade, or replacement, but you knew that when you closed the deal.

One of the main items on your agenda from day one was the flooring. There was some cracking in the original flooring for your mudroom that suggested issues. And water intrusion one floor below in the basement required carpet removal and the whole room (plus bathroom) was in need of an upgrade. You knew it wasn’t going to be an easy task and immediately decided against the do-it-yourself option.

In your search for a quality flooring supplier and installer you discovered Floor Coverings International, located at 8 County Road 42, Tecumseh (just east of Manning Road). They have been in business for the past 28 years assisting local residents with all the latest flooring options. Various flooring products include: carpet, hardwood, porcelain tile, stone, luxury vinyl, vinyl plank flooring, engineered hardwood, laminate and cork. They also have manufactured stone for fireplaces, window blinds and more.

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Lorraine Whalen, Sales/Design Associate, has 20 years of personal experience and is more than happy to sort through the options available for their clients.

The team at Floor Coverings International is diverse and engaged in all aspects of pleasing their clientele. Owners Bill and Denise Wellings are very much involved in day-to-day operations.

Their daughters Danielle Wellings-Carriere and Pam WellingsKasana, are part of the Design Team, along with Terri Malton and Kathy Dresser, plus our respondent, Lorraine Whalen.

How can Floor Coverings International assist the consumer in choosing the most appropriate floor coverings? “We take many things into consideration including, lifestyle, budget, personal likes and dislikes, existing issues and more,” states Whalen noting, “It’s easy to be overwhelmed with the variety of products available.

We like to help narrow down the products that will serve your needs and still fulfill your vision.”

Besides the functionality of a new floor system, how can new flooring enhance the appearance of a home? “Updating the floors goes a long way in the overall appearance and feel of the home,” indicates Whalen. “It’s amazing what a change it can make

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to just refresh the colours, whether it is to simply freshen up the living space or to prepare the home for resale.”

What considerations are there when it comes to the existing substrate as it relates to the installation techniques and type of flooring that can be considered? “To put it simply, the proper

preparation of a subfloor is going to determine how well and for how long your investment will perform and look its best,” replies Whalen. “Our home visits help determine what needs to be done to prepare for your new floor as many products have specific subfloor requirements.”

What is the first step in the process? “It starts with a home visit.

During this visit we can fully understand the existing conditions and what is required of the installation crew,” explains Whalen adding, “The client is advised what to expect from the installation crew and what is needed to be prepared before they can begin. One of the most repeated compliments we receive is how professional and capable our installation crews are.”

How many suppliers do you have access to? “There are so many it is hard to list them all,” Whalen responds. “We carry all the major companies such as Armstrong, Mohawk, Shaw, Godfrey Hurst, Beaulieu, Fuzion, EZLAY, Midgley West, DalTile, Sarana, Olympia, Centura, Mannington, Richmond, Traffix, Ceretec, Husky, AND our own private label Floor Coverings International (FCI) brands.”

BEFORE Water damage occurred in the basement and the existing carpet and tile was removed.

BEFORE

AFTER

Previously the bathroom in the basement had a section of ceramic tile as did the hallway. And now the new Saddle Brook Walnut porcelain tile looks amazing in the bathroom and throughout the entire basement.

AFTER Brad and Jay from FCI took the time to give the floor in the basement the proper preparations necessary for the finished project to look and perform its absolute best for years to come.

BEFORE

AFTER

Cracking in the original ceramic tile in the mudroom suggested major issues. Then after. . . WOW! Engineered stone tile was the perfect product for this “wet” area.

It’s also groutable and looks very realistic.

Your floors are amazing and exactly as you envisioned them!

As you take in the rich look of Saddle Brook Walnut porcelain tile in the basement, you recall that it had to overcome obstacles to become reality.

The uneven concrete subfloor required quite a bit of levelling to ensure your tile will perform without problems in the future.

Engineered Stone Plank Conestoga Wagon was the tile of choice for your mudroom, once some underlying issues were identified with the existing floor and subfloor.

FCI advised that sometimes you need a product that has a little flexibility. Engineered stone is a great product to give the look of real tile and plank and is waterproof and warm.

They explained it was the perfect solution to this area as the subfloor could not be built up to the needed strength for ordinary tile or stone. A weak subfloor was the cause of cracks in your previously existing tile. Engineered stone provides some flexibility, which has provided you with flooring that is both functional and beautiful.

We have to admit the floor installations couldn’t have gone any better and fortunately for our Biz X readers, who find themselves in a similar flooring conundrum, the Floor Coverings International team is ready to help you.

Just stop by their showroom or utilize their mobile showroom services. View flooring products right in your own home!

Log on to the website: Windsor.FloorCoveringsInternational.com for complete details and see a product gallery as well.

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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Ambassador Golf Club & Friends Pay It Forward With Wedding Giveaway

By Joe McParland

H

ave you ever had the experience of going through a drive-through and discovering as you went to pay for your order that it had already been paid for by the car in front of you — by a perfect stranger?

If you have, welcome to “pay it forward”.

Hopefully, you were inspired by this gesture and selected another stranger to later pay it forward to with an act of generosity. You kept the ball rolling.

Paying it forward is not a new or novel concept. Throughout literature, from the ancient Greek comedies to modern times, man has often been depicted as being beneficent toward his fellow man without any expectation of anything in return.

The mid-19th century essayist and philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson, wrote in his 1841 essay, “Compensation”, the following: “In the order of nature we cannot render benefits to those from whom we receive them, or only seldom. But the benefit we receive must be rendered again, line for line, deed for deed, cent for cent, to somebody.”

Ten years ago, Daniele Palanca and Diane Farquhar moved on from their employment with St. Clair College Centre for the Arts to new career opportunities at Ambassador Golf Club.

Palanca became Executive Chef, and Farquhar, Client Service Manager. During their 10 years at Ambassador, this dynamic duo has built the facility into a highly popular and successful special events banquet venue — especially for weddings.

As Palanca explains, “A good part of our success is the fact that we have been lucky to have worked with many of the same vendors for 10 years, all of them true professionals in what they do.”

Palanca and Farquhar are so grateful for their employment, the club’s ownership and the amazing clientele at Ambassador that, for a few years, they have bounced around the idea of “giving away a free wedding” — a massive pay it forward.

Farquhar recalls: “About five years ago, Chef (Palanca) said to me that we should have a free wedding for some lucky couple.

I said, ‘Sure, Chef; but how are we going to pull that off?”

Over the next five years the idea was

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Cheers to the local vendors graciously donating their product/service for this special wedding giveaway. A few are pictured in this fun group photo taken by the bar at Ambassador Golf Club. From left: Jill Wilhelm, Jill Wilhelm Photography; Joe McParland, Creative Marriage Celebrations; Wendy Hoffman, Coffee & Cream; Janet Arsenault, Chalet Studio Photography & Gardens; Ambassador Golf Club’s Executive Chef Daniele Palanca and Diane Farquhar, Client Service Manager; Diane Spencler-Glover, Designs by Diane; Alba Giglio, Girard & Co. Flowers; Sarah Taylor, It’s Your Day Bridal and Giovanni Arcuri and Lisa Costante, Sottozero Catering. Vendors missing include: Jack Jobin, Limos by Mr. J’s; Sandra Veric from Allure Events, PJ Tawil from DJPJ Productions; Veronique Peladeau from Pelee Island Winery, Astj Marie from Crystal Clear Jewelry, Maria Dattilo-Ciampa of MDC Custom Artistry and Saskia Scott from Sweet Revenge Bake Shop. Photo by Rod Denis.

occasionally floated to various wedding vendors, who were all totally on board with it.

“Finally, we decided we would do it and approached the Ambassador ownership team with our idea,” beams Farquhar.

“They were 100% behind it.”

Farquhar and Palanca are quick to point out this is not a promotion for Ambassador, but a genuine desire by the two of them and their staff to pay it forward to others for their good fortunes.

Palanca proudly states “their staff has volunteered their time for this special wedding — they will not be clocking in that day.”

“And who knows,” adds Farquhar, “perhaps the winning couple will then find a way afterwards to pay it forward for another couple.”

Thus, Palanca and Farquhar have created the “Pay it forward campaign: Wedding Giveaway.” Held appropriately on Valentine’s Day, Sunday, February 14, 2021 in the Ambassador Golf Club ballroom, 1025 Sprucewood Avenue, Windsor, they B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • A P R IL / M A Y 2 0 2 0

are providing for one lucky couple a free room rental, appetizers, chef’s custom menu and late-night pizza, for up to 150 guests.

Interested couples were asked to write a story and submit it to Farquhar and Palanca describing why they should be selected to have the wedding of their dreams.

Farquhar informs Biz X, “More than 70 beautiful stories about love, illness, and financial situations poured in from couples before the March 31, 2020 deadline. The winning couple will be notified after a panel decision from the top 10 finalists at the end of May.” The following are more generous Windsor and Essex County vendors who jumped on board to also offer their services or products for this wedding event. They are as listed: A three-tier wedding cake from Saskia Scott of Sweet Revenge Bake Shop, (5410 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor; SweetRevengeBakeShop.com); a gold DJ package from PJ Tawil of DJPJ Productions (DjPjProductions.com); an Espresso Bar, Gelato Cart and Cannoli Bar courtesy of Lisa Costante and

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“HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE” continues . . .

Giovanni Arcuri of Sottozero Catering (Facebook.com/Sottozero.Gelato5); an instock wedding gown valued at up to $1,000 from Sarah Taylor, It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique (1661 Front Road, LaSalle; ItsYourDay.ca); Wedding reception décor from Sandra Veric, Allure Events (Facebook.com/AllureEventsWindsor); Bride’s bouquet and Groom’s boutonniere, Alba Giglio, Girard & Co. Flowers & Gifts (1371 Grand Marais Road West, Windsor; GirardFlowers.com); engagement photos by Janet and Alan Arseneault, Chalet Studio Photography & Gardens (7540 Howard Avenue, Amherstburg; ChaletStudio.ca); wedding reception photos taken by Jillian Wilhelm of Jillian Wilhelm Photography (985 Baseline Road, Windsor; J i l l i a nW i l h e l m P h o t o g r a p h y. c o m) ; a necklace, earring and bracelet set for the bride supplied by Astj Marie of Crystal Clear Jewelry ( Fa c e b o o k . c o m /c r y s t a l c l e a r j e w l ) ; complete wedding officiant services by yours truly, Joe McParland of Creative Marriage Celebrations (1559 Victoria Avenue, Windsor; CivilMarriages.ca); and wedding welcome sign, guestbook and table numbers from Maria DattiloCiampa of MDC Custom Artistry (visit: Facebook.com/mdccustomartistry).

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In addition, I asked a few more of the vendors why they're involved in the “Pay it forward campaign: Wedding Giveaway” and here are the responses . . .

Coffee & Cream (learn more on: CoffeeAndCream.ca) is setting up an evening crepe station on site the day of the wedding thanks to Barb Hackett and Wendy Hoffman.

As Hackett explains, “Being a part of a dream come true and a part of someone’s special day is great. We do a lot of local events and love to be a part of the wedding community and working with other vendors. Ambassador’s venue is so magical, and all events are done with the utmost care and professionalism. When an opportunity knocks like this, you definitely want to be involved.”

Veronique Peladeau and her team at Pelee Island Winery (455 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville and Pelee Island, 20 East West Road; PeleeIsland.com) are providing an overnight stay package for the happy couple.

Peladeau says, “As a preferred vendor of Ambassador Golf Club we are honoured to be a part of giving back to members of our own community. Paying it forward with so many great local businesses truly warms all our hearts; I am so looking forward to celebrating with the lucky couple.”

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Since all those tying the knot deserve to arrive to their wedding in style, Jack Jobin of Limos by Mr. J’s (4205 County Road 42, Windsor; MrJsLimos.com) is offering three hours worth of limousine service.

Jobin is happy “to donate my limousine services to Ambassador Golf Club’s ‘Pay it forward campaign: Wedding Giveaway’ and to be involved in supporting the community.”

Diane Spencler-Glover of Designs by Diane (DesignsByDiane.org) has been in the business for over 30 years and is donating and setting up décor items for the reception to create a winter wonderland theme (trust us at Biz X, if Diane is involved, your event will be over the top!).

“I’m blessed to have had the clients I have looked after over the years and many have shared their pay it forward stories with me,” she says. “I wanted to give back as well and hopefully my participation here will encourage others to also pay it forward.”

For ongoing updates about the “Pay it forward campaign: Wedding Giveaway” — including discovering which deserving couple was rewarded with all these fabulous items — check out Ambassador’s social media page: Facebook.com/B2BattheAGC. You can also read about Ambassador's wedding options, menus and more on the website: AmbassadorGolfClub.com.

TECH BY TES

Beyond 2020: The Future Of Work And Learning

By Dr. Victoria Abboud It is no surprise the world of work has been changing. Rapidly.

This “fourth industrial revolution,” as it has been called by several futurists and economists, requires fast-paced learning, problem-solving, and adaptation. It seems like once we’ve gained skills in one area, it’s time to learn something completely new.

Pessimists often argue the way the world of work and learning is moving, this era will witness the demise of academic institutions, the complete shift of human workforces to robots, and the downfall of empathic humanity.

However, when we engage through the lenses of possibility, creativity, and systems thinking, it’s clear that much of this change can be influenced by humans learning and working at their best.

The “Tech Connect” initiative, first launched in July 2019, is a multi-pronged exploration of the Windsor Essex region that identifies our region’s prospective needs and trends,

both in the workplace and in the community.

With the generous support of the Local Employment Planning Council led by Workforce WindsorEssex, WEtech Alliance endeavoured to create a snapshot of the regional “tech” scene and to question how the region might better connect employers and prospective employees.

We learned so much more than our leading question would suggest.

By interviewing community, business, and education leaders, hearing from college and university students, launching the Tech Connect survey, and facilitating the Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) Roundtable, we were able to isolate some of the key opportunities that are most important for our region — the very opportunities that will support our region in the uncertain future of work and learning.

The keys to enabling our region to flourish in the future include: (1) intentional collaboration

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among business, education, and community; (2) identifying and supporting the evolving skill sets required of prospective employees; (3) opening young people to varied learning and career pathways; (4) supporting local businesses to create and foster fully inclusive work environments; and (5) opening the possibilities for broader-scale problem-solving and innovation across business, education, and community boundaries.

Although the rate at which change now happens is exponentially greater than for previous generations, the nature of work and learning engages us in ways that bring us to our full creative and intelligent selves.

By engaging as a community for our community, this region can adapt, grow, and flourish through this change. We have the capability if we move forward collectively.

For the full Tech Connect report, visit: WEtech-Alliance.com.

“Tech Bytes” is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com) where Dr. Victoria Abboud is the Tech Talent Strategist. She is also a faculty member at the University of Windsor teaching technical communications and emerging technologies. As a researcher, educator, and administrator for two decades in Canada, the U.S., and Brazil, she has supported over 2,500 learners and 150 faculty to see the broadscale applications of their work and the vital importance of ethics and empathy in all they do.

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portfolio corner

Active Management Does Work

By Steven Mayo The coronavirus — another crisis for the stock markets.

This is a crisis more of the unknown and a delay in business, supplies being stored instead of bought, and demand on hold. When the flow of people re-starts, the demand cycle will pick up.

As with any crisis, the fear of the unknown creates buying opportunities for the active manager. This is what I wait for. The list of great companies is already known.

As I write in early March, many great companies are now much cheaper to purchase.

In general, the stock markets have been hit hard because of a rush to liquidity (selling), and the heavy selling by ETFs and institutions of all sorts to build cash. It’s the fastest correction ever, and the fastest I’ve seen of a market place going from greed to fear since 2008 (which was justified).

So here we are. This too shall pass. It’s now time to reload your “buy list”. I recommend directing your hard earned money to where it is most welcome — The United States.

It has to be said that Canada’s government deters investment and innovations by more regulations and taxes, whereas the U.S. remains the best environment for business investment, innovation, technology, and medical advancement, and therefore growth and job creation.

By comparing our stock market sectors (and weightings) to the

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S&P 500 you will see their investment sectors have more opportunity for future returns.

S&P/TSX 60 S&P 500 Financials 32.4% Information Technology 24.5% Energy 15.8% Health Care 14.1% Materials 11.2% Financials 12.0% Industrials 11.1% Communication Services 10.6% Information Technology 6.1% Consumer Discretionary 9.8% Communication Services 5.5% Industrials 8.8% Utilities 5.3% Consumer Staples 7.4% Consumer Staples 4.0% Energy 3.6% Consumer Discretionary 3.8% Utilities 3.6% Real Estate 3.7% Real Estate 3.1% Health Care 1.1% Materials 2.5% Source: RBC Dominion Securities, 3/2/2020 You will notice that the U.S. market is more representative of future growth industries, and less reliant on commodities.

You now have the perfect environment to diversify toward the U.S. economy.

There are two things I know for sure. First, interest rates will remain low, and second, quarterly earnings season begins in April.

Earning expectations have been lowered, and when companies start reporting, there is a good possibility the news is not as bad as expected.

Today’s extreme headlines will have only provided excellent investment buying conditions. Twenty to 30% OFF SALES are rare!

I’ll wrap up this column now with a quote by U.S. President John F. Kennedy: “In the Chinese language, the word ‘crisis’ is composed of two characters, one representing danger and the other, opportunity.”

Steven Mayo is a Vice President, Director, and Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (Member — Canadian Investor Protection Fund). This article is not intended as nor does it constitute investment advice. Readers should consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on information in this article.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN

By Ujjwal Sharma

MARY COULTHARD N

Investing In The Future

ow more than ever, people are interested in ways to make their money work for them.

The goal of The Speculators Investment Club is just that — through investing in the stock market.

“My husband and I moved to Windsor from London in 1965,” recalls Club President Mary A. Coulthard. “I had always wanted to belong to an investment club and since I had a lot of free time, I decided to start one.”

At that time Coulthard was bowling with ladies from Essex Golf Club and belonged to a Bridge club. When she proposed the possibility of forming an investment club to these two groups, there was a lot of interest.

“I held a meeting January 1970 at my home with about 40 women showing up,” she says. “After some discussion, it was decided to form a club right there.”

Twenty-five ladies contributed $25 initially with the agreement to pay $10 per month. Volunteers for the executive slate were voted on and accepted. Plans were made to draw up by-laws and the name they originally decided upon for the club was “Dix”— the number 10 in French — representing their initial investment.

The Club’s by-laws state they are to meet each month at a specific time and place, which they have done, on the third Tuesday of every month, for 50 years (March/April 2020 being an exception due to COVID-19).

“Members take turns reporting on a stock that took their interest,” she explains. “Any purchase or sale cannot be done without a report first and voted on by the majority of those present.”

Mary Coulthard, President of The Speculators Investment Club, looks at the S&P/TSX Composite Index with volume projections going into 2041 from the comfort of her home office. Photo by Rod Denis.

Back when the Club first formed, all research had to be done either at a library or from newspapers. However, if anyone knew any stock brokers personally, they reached out to them for information.

“Making transactions took some thinking because it was expensive to trade, not like now with discount brokers,” she comments.

And as for researching today, Coulthard mentions “computers rule.” Back when they first began, all their reports, minutes, and financial statements were manually typed.

“Technology has changed everything considerably,” she states. “We can now make instant trades. In fact, one of our members winters in Florida and we include her by email.”

Over the years, Club regrouped with new members from their waiting list and renamed themselves, The Speculators Investment Club.

“We endeavour to achieve more knowledge about our economy, as well as the workings of the stock market,” notes Coulthard.

She adds that the investment club is somewhat exceptional because the average life of any club, organized by men or women, is usually only 10 years.

Coulthard continues: “Our members are very diverse: a chartered accountant, a few teachers, business owners and retirees, ranging in age from 53 to 91.”

The Club currently has 21 members and has room for four more.

“Over the years we have had many interesting speakers on timely stock subjects,” she describes, pointing out a yearly donation is made to a local charity.

“We have learned a tremendous amount about the stock market, made good friends and even went on a Caribbean cruise as a group.”

When it comes to mixing home life and work life, Coulthard believes women are natural multi-taskers.

“Investing is an interest, so there is no problem,” she states. “The social aspect of the club is just a perk!”

Anyone who is interested in getting involved in investing with the Club, must be willing to do their homework.

“As a member, part of your commitment is researching various companies that may personally interest you, because we never invest in a ‘HOT’ tip,” Coulthard expresses.

Find out more information on this unique club by emailing Coulthard at: coulthard@sympatico.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

© Can Stock Photo/Konrad Bak

clean your hands after emptying a wastebasket.

As a parent, your child depends on your comforting words and reassurance to make sense of the many public conversations surrounding COVID-19. Remember, your child looks to you for guidance and needs your affection and love.

In a crisis situation, it is common for children to seek more attachment to their parents. This is an important time to make yourself available to listen and to talk with your child.

When talking to your child about COVID-19, here are some tips . . .

Questions On COVID-19?

How To Navigate The Coronavirus Disease With Your Child Supplied By The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU.org) n the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, your child may begin to worry about themselves, their family and friends, getting sick.

Your child may not understand the reasoning for school closures, the cancellation of extracurricular activities, or why they can’t hug a grandparent right now. They are also absorbing a large amount of new information that can cause alarm.

As your child’s role model, ensure you are taking the necessary precautions to reduce your own and your family’s risk.

For example, make sure your family is practicing social distancing by staying at least two metres away from the nearest person. This helps reduce the spread!

Also, this is a good time to teach your child about how to reduce their risk of illness.

Remember to practice what you preach!

I

When considering how to protect your child against COVID-19, here's some advice . . .

• Teach your child how to wash their hands with soap and water.

• Show your child how to cover his or her cough by coughing into their upper sleeve or elbow.

• Remind your child to sneeze into a tissue and

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to throw it away afterwards and immediately wash their hands.

• Remind your child to avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

• Have your child stay away from sick people.

• Teach your child what social distancing is and why it is important.

• To reduce germs, wash your child’s toys according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Be sure to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If your child has COVID-19, here are some guidelines on how to care for him/her . . .

• Wash your hands often and after each contact with your child.

• Wear a mask and gloves when you have contact with your child’s saliva or other bodily fluids.

• Dispose of your gloves and mask after each use. Take off your gloves first, wash your hands, then take off your mask and wash your hands again.

• Avoid sharing household items, such as dishes, cups, eating utensils, towels, and bedding.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with regular household cleaners.

• Wear gloves while washing laundry and clean your hands after taking off your gloves.

• Be careful when you are removing waste and

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• Emphasize to your child that they and your family are OK. • Avoid using language that might blame others.

• Provide information that is honest and accurate.

• Acknowledge your child’s fears.

• Provide facts about what has happened.

• Explain the overall risk of getting the virus.

• Give clear information about how to reduce their risk of being infected.

• In a reassuring way, explain what happens if they or a family member gets sick.

• Discuss any questions your child may have.

• Reassure your child that symptoms in children are generally mild.

• Use words that your child understands.

Are you experiencing higher levels of stress and anxiety considering the level of attention and seriousness being paid to COVID-19? Don’t worry, it is normal to have increased stress and anxiety in crisis situations.

Try not to ignore or suppress these feelings, but be mindful that your child may sense a change and react to it. Remaining calm and providing reassurance can help you as a parent and also protect your child’s mental health.

Providing a safe and supportive environment for your child to express and communicate thoughts and feelings can help him or her feel relief.

During this difficult time, your child will most likely observe your behaviour and emotions to help them manage their own emotions. Keeping this in mind, make sure you continue to take care of yourself! To help manage your emotions, use the skills that you have built over time.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle through proper

THE PARENTING BIZ diet, sleep, exercise, and social contact with other family and friends through phone or video calls. Performing these acts of self-care can positively influence your child’s behaviour and emotions. This will help you be a great role model for your child.

Remember, do not stress about being perfect!

No one is perfect, especially during times of uncertainty.

Regarding your child’s mental health, consider this important information . . .

• Pay attention to what your child sees or hears on the television, radio, or online.

• Maintain normal routines as much as possible.

• Encourage your child to continue to play and socialize with you.

• Incorporate activities that keep your child active.

• Get your child outside in fresh air and nature as much as possible.

• Keep your child’s mind stimulated with educational activities.

• Incorporate activities that stimulate your child’s creativity.

• Set limits on your child’s media and screentime exposure.

Keeping busy is also a good way to keep your child’s thoughts off public conversation and to keep things as normal as possible. Don’t throw away your scheduler just yet! Consider making

a schedule that gives you and your family a new daily routine that includes familiar activities.

When considering fun activities to keep busy, check out these ideas . . .

• While maintaining social distancing, go for a family walk (take the dog too if you have one!); explore a local green space area and go for a hike on a park trail or path.

• With warmer weather approaching, get your bikes out and go for a ride.

• Grab a soccer ball, basketball, or football that you can kick or throw around in your yard.

• Bring some chalk outside and play hopscotch or other fun jumping/skipping games with your child.

• To get everyone in the family moving and away from a screen, include the whole family in spring cleaning chores or helping out with some yard work.

Recently, “self-isolation” has become a commonly used term in many homes. You may be asking, what does self-isolation mean?

To self-isolate means to stay home and monitor yourself for symptoms, even if mild, for 14 days and avoid contact with other people to help prevent the spread of disease.

Self-isolate if you have no symptoms and a history of possible exposure to COVID-19 due to travel outside of Canada, or close contact with a person who has COVID-19.

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Don’t let self-isolation scare you! Self-isolation protects you, your family, and community.

Self-isolation looks different for every family.

As a parent, you may need to be separated from your child if it is safe and another primary caregiver is present.

If you are isolated from your child, keep regular contact! Consider phone or video calls and keep reassuring him or her.

When considering how to self-isolate, here are some guidelines . . .

• Stay home. Do not use public transportation and do not go to work or other public places.

• Limit the number of visitors in your home.

Only have visitors who you must see and keep the visits brief.

• Avoid contact with others. Stay in a separate room away from other people in your home.

• Keep your distance. If you are in a room with other people, stay at least two metres away from them.

• Cover your coughs and sneezes. Cough into your upper sleeve or elbow and sneeze into a tissue, then throw it away and wash your hands.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.

Use a paper towel or your own cloth towel that no one else uses to dry your hands.

• Wear a mask if you must leave your house to see a health care provider or are within two metres of other people.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Nature’s Gifts For Creative Play

By Michelle van Heugten

ave you ever stood in awe beneath a canopy of trees as their branches danced and sang in the breeze?

Maybe you’ve sat quietly on the banks of a stream gazing into the mirrored reflection of the sky? Perhaps you’ve even danced in the rain.

When we are deeply connected to the world around us our lives are rich with these experiences. The natural world offers us peace, serenity and well-being.

Children benefit greatly from nature play.

Their natural curiosity about the world around them fills their minds with questions and wonders as they explore nature’s gifts. When we provide an opportunity for children to gather, collect, wonder about and investigate nature items, we enhance their learning.

By blurring the lines between the indoor and outdoor learning environments, we can enhance children’s learning.

Allowing nature’s materials into the classroom or home gives validity to children’s natural curiosities. Providing time and space for their collections to be displayed and played with, deepens their understandings and connections to the world.

its winter nap, children’s curiosity drives their learning.

Creative play, with items such as sticks, acorns, rocks and leaves, allows children’s imaginations to soar. Materials become transformed and manipulated to support their play.

Often we will include these natural materials within our sensory bins, small world play and at our nature discovery tables.

When natural materials are offered to children, along with traditional materials, whether in the indoor or outdoor learning space, children’s play is enriched and deepened.

Children learn to care for the natural world. They come to value nature’s materials, which in turn supports their developing stewardship of the environment.

Considering the environmental concerns of our current society, this is imperative as we guide children in their life’s journey.

Providing a space in the indoor or home learning environment for nature to be celebrated and investigated, tells children the gifts of nature are valued and important.

Simply place a beautiful tray or basket out

H

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Inspirations from nature to inspire children’s creative play. Photo courtesy of Michelle van Heugten.

How can you provide your child with the benefits of nature play? Simply give them time to discover the gifts of nature right in their own backyard.

Children find joy in connecting with nature and often take notice of the outside world with eyes wide open for discovery. Whether it is that first dandelion growing in the grass or a lovely ladybug that emerges from

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to house your child’s nature collection. Soon your space will be connected to children’s curiosities and creative thinking as they play with both traditional play materials and nature’s gifts.

A nature journal is a wonderful way to engage children in drawing and writing about the world around them. A book is simple to make with paper, a hole punch, an elastic and a stick.

All you need to do is fold the paper in half for as many pages as you would like in your book. Punch two holes in the paper near the top and bottom of the book near the folded edge. Then slip the elastic through the holes and slide the stick under the elastic ends to fasten the book.

Encourage your child to take their book outside and record what they discover about the natural world. They could even record their observations from inside the house.

Bird watching is a wonderful way to greet the spring season and also learn about our native songbirds.

The inaturalist website (iNaturalist.ca) and app can provide information as you research the birds you discover.

The inaturalist app can be downloaded on your tech devices and used to track and learn about the natural world. For younger children inaturalist offers the app “Seek”

Photo courtesy of John Barnes

THE PARENTING BIZ

which is easy to use and promotes outdoor explorations.

Your child’s nature collection serves as inspiration for more storytelling as well.

When children transform objects to enhance their play they are innovating and developing creative thinking skills.

In this way, sticks become wands, stones become treasured gems and leaves wings for flight, during dramatic play. Pair these items with your child’s more traditional toys and you have the recipe for a magical childhood experience.

Thinking about how you might offer a few nature items to your child? A muffin tray is an easy way to present your child a few nature items to include in their play.

Remember, when children collect items themselves it will be meaningful to them.

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Perhaps, you have seashells saved from a trip to the beach or pinecones discovered from a trip to the park. All of these nature items can be used to enhance children’s creative play. Children delight in using these materials within their art experiences.

Nature items can be paired with paint, Play-Doh and other artistic mediums.

Create a family collaborative canvas using your nature collection. Pinecones and leaves make wonderful tools to use with paint. Let your imagination soar as you experiment.

When you join your child in creative play with nature’s gifts you help to build their sense of connection to the world. The natural world can indeed serve to inspire and educate us all if we take the time to simply look around. I leave you with the words of John Muir, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”

Michelle van Heugten is an Essex County Kindergarten teacher and artist with a love of all things creative.

With over 24 years of working alongside children and families she shares inspiring creative play ideas and materials through her blog: Creative-Explorations-mvh.blogspot.com; Instag ram.com/creative_ e xplorations and Etsy.com/ca/shop/MichellevanHeugten.

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THE PARENTING BIZ from the bookshelf

Author Brings Imaginative Game To Life With New Book

By Ujjwal Sharma

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local author has taken a common childhood game and turned it into an interactive experience with his new book.

“I started taking pictures of clouds that looked like different things, with the intent to compile them into a book where children can use their imagination and decide what they see, and write down their ideas,” explains Chad Price, who wrote “Just My Imagination,” which was published in January 2020. “My main intent for the book was to get children to interact with my art work and enjoy the magic of using their imaginations.”

As a child, Price recalls how he used to love playing the cloud game with his siblings and friends. It was 15 years ago when he first had the idea for this book. Over the years, he has continued to take his own photos of interesting cloud formations that trigger his imagination.

“Just My Imagination” contains Price’s pictures along with an illustration and “thought cloud” for children to draw or write what they think the cloud looks like.

“This encourages children to go back to the pictures and use their imaginations over and over again,” he comments. “The goal for my book is to get children to move away from electronic and digital

Chad Price, author of “Just My Imagination”, is photographed with his girlfriend, Jessica and his step children from left: Ryder (seven), Andi (12), Kinsley (five) and his seven year old son Jakson, who the book is dedicated to. Photo courtesy of Heather Taylor at HT Photography.

forms of entertainment and engage their imaginations and the true magic of the world we live in!”

Price, a full time culinary Chef, notes his book is intended for children of all ages, but best suits children aged two to 10.

Parents can get a complete description of the book and/or purchase it on the publisher’s site: AustinMacauley.com/us/author/price-chad.

It is also available through Amazon (Amazon.ca) and ChaptersIndigo (Chapters.Indigo.ca).

In the Windsor Essex region, Price is currently working with local book stores to hold signing events and get hard copies on site.

“I hope kids will read my book and remember that you can have fun just using your imagination,” he expresses. “You just have to look up.”

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TAKE THE LEAD

Stacey Robert-Tobin: A Change Maker Of A Generation Of Women Saying “Yes I Can”!

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

S

Biz X: What advice do you have for future community leaders?

RT: Choose something you are passionate about and willing to work hard for! With passion and purpose things fall into place.

Become an excellent communicator, work to improve your listening skills and never allow anyone to make you feel less than what you deserve. Treat others with kindness and compassion and build bridges — don’t burn them! You never know when you might need a helping hand. Be courageous, go after what you want in life. Courage does not make you fearless, facing your fears is the first step towards achievement. Lastly, don’t be afraid of failure . . . through failures we grow and get closer to achieving success.

tacey Robert-Tobin is an educator, author and entrepreneur, who recently received the University of Windsor, “Alumni of Distinction Odyssey Award” for her work in the community.

She is also featured in the latest book by local author Jenn Sadai, titled “Women Ready to Rise.”

At the end of February, I had the chance to meet with Robert-Tobin (RT) to pick her brain on what advice she has for others. Here is a summary of what we chatted about.

Biz X: Why is it important for you to be a community leader?

Robert-Tobin (RT): The world needs people who are willing to lead. I see myself as someone who strives for success and I want others to see this potential in themselves. I also want to inspire others to get involved in their community and give back while following their passion in life. I feel honoured that I can be a mentor and a source of guidance to others.

Biz X: What motivated you to start Women of Windsor and what is your vision for the group?

RT: I have always been fascinated by the power of collective energy. I have volunteered for many organizations and found it to be very rewarding.

I began to notice many unsung heroes in our community doing amazing work and I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate their work. I wanted to create a platform where women could share their experiences (personally and professionally) and network. It has been an incredible journey, and as the group continues to grow, I realize the sky’s the limit. Women of Windsor is a success because of the strong and powerful women who have joined. I hope to offer leadership training/mentoring to those interested in further expanding their leadership skills. (Learn more on: Facebook.com/Womenof WindsorYQG) Biz X: Please share how you became a leader in fertility support in Ontario,

Stacey Robert-Tobin and Bella Tobin rock!

As creator of the group, Women of Windsor, Robert-Tobin hopes to connect women to each other, highlight their achievements and provide opportunities to get involved in the community by helping those in need. One of those opportunities is Girls Rock Windsor of which Robert-Tobin is a board member. She and her daughter show off their t-shirts promoting the new group, which holds rock camps to encourage young girls to get involved in the music industry.

Photo courtesy of the Tobin family.

providing service from Windsor to Toronto.

RT: Fertility Friends initially started out of my own need for support after trying to conceive for a few years.

Upon discovering there were no support groups in Windsor Essex, I decided to create one and reached out to Fertility Matters Canada. I became their Southwestern Ontario representative.

I was also involved in a project conducted by McGill University to develop a mobile app supporting men and women in their fertility journey. My ultimate goal is to continue to advocate for those who feel they cannot speak.

It’s important to remove the stigma surrounding infertility, while providing a safe space where they can share their story and obtain advice, support, and guidance. (See: Facebook.com/ groups/261613851035306).

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Biz X: I know that you are a huge advocate for women and you started an all-female painting business as a student.

Do you have any tips for young women starting out in their careers?

RT: Be courageous and proud. You can do anything you set your mind to. Challenge yourself to do what you think you can’t and work hard to achieve your goals.

Write down your ideas, because ideas become thoughts and thoughts become actions. Ignore negativity, surround yourself with those who inspire you and build you up. Always listen to, and trust your intuition. Remember that women’s groups should include male advocacy because we are stronger together. To progress, we must have men as part of the conversation; together we can make a difference.

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

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Women’s Enterprise Skills Training Of Windsor Inc. “International Women’s Day Gala” March 8, 2020 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Each year on March 8, Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) celebrates the achievements of women on “International Women’s Day” with a special gala. This year’s theme, “An Equal World is an Enabled World,” came from the idea of collective individualism.

We are all parts of a whole; our individual thoughts and actions have a direct impact on society. WEST Executive Director and President, Rose Anguiano Hurst (middle with flowers and award), truly gives it her all to help women achieve their goals through acquiring employment, training and skills development. She was pleasantly surprised, during the official ceremonies, by her staff and WEST board members who wanted to recognize her 30 years of dedication to the organization. On stage to congratulate her were: Anuja Virani, Joan Simpson, Gemma Grey-Hall, Jessica Watson, Lynn Guest, Stephanie Lyanga, Olivia Zhao, Anguiano Hurst, Ann Diab, Lisa Shulman, Nadine Manroe-Wakerell and Maria Ford Conliffe. WEST exists to provide training for severely employment disadvantaged, visible minority women, in order to improve their employability in the workforce and/or further their education. Find out more about this organization on: WestOfWindsor.com.

2. Approximately 520 guests attended the gala, including a table from the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA) and their guests, who took advantage of this photo op by the piano — Kelly Gosselin, Sara Dalrymple, Jessica Fontaine, Leta Marchand, Marisa Casey, Erin Flannery, Dana Dupuis, Stephani Fenkanyn, Sarah Woodruff Atkinson, Luciana Rosu Sieza, Anna Levonyan and Jennifer Wardell.

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2 3. As an award sponsor, the Odette School of Business, University of Windsor, was represented by Shiraa Sheth, Florine Ndimubandhi, Ronak Doowd, Dr. Martha Reavley, Nikita Thakur and Kelly Gosselin (back row).

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4. In southwestern Ontario, HUB International supports local causes and charities through various fundraising efforts, and employees also volunteer their time at several charitable events throughout the year. Four members of the HUB team

attending the WEST Gala which the company sponsored, were: Kevin Delaney, Lisa Dinchik, Michael Steffler and Rigney Armstrong.

5. Not only was the event held at St. Clair College, but the college was also an award sponsor. A double whammy for our photographer, who grabbed a shot of the school’s representatives: Lido Zuccato, Bryan Walls, Anna Walls, Dan Allen, Pam Allen, Kiara Clement, Cassandra Mailloux, Jacqueline Cardillo and Richard Lauzon.

6. Throughout the evening, the “Journey Towards Success” Awards were presented to honour individuals, businesses and organizations in Windsor and Essex County that are invested in helping WEST and its participants achieve their goals, plus occasionally go the extra mile! First up was “The Daphne V. Clarke Trailblazer Award,” which recognizes a partner who is active in breaking barriers and affecting change in Windsor Essex. Earning this honour was “A Book Of My Own” literacy campaign.

Lori Berg, CTV Windsor Producer and award sponsor, presented the award to Donna Crowe, Director and Helen Chittaro of “A Book of My Own,” who are pictured with Rose Anguiano Hurst, WEST Executive Director.

7. “The Visionary Award” goes to an individual who strives for gender equality.

Lisa Shulman, AM800 CKLW (award sponsor) is photographed with recipient Michael Brown (Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society, Co-chair BACC Committee) and Anguiano Hurst.

8. “The Sisterhood Award” honours a woman who demonstrates passion and perseverance for women’s equality. Recipient Diala Zaidan (Windsor Counselling Services — International Healing) is pictured with Anguiano Hurst, representing award sponsor Caesars Windsor Cares.

Photo #9 caption found on the next page

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WEST's "International Women's Day Gala" photos continue . . .

10 9. “The Influencer Award” is presented to an individual who holds value in inclusivity and is active in affecting change. Dalia Mazhar of the Windsor Star (award sponsor) presented the award to recipient Rebecca Saad, who posed with family member, Theresa Saad, and Anguiano Hurst.

10. “The VIP Award — New Business Partner” is awarded to a business or organization that has been supporting WEST for a maximum of one year. On stage for the presentation to EnWin were Deborah Jones, Publisher Biz X magazine (award sponsor); Ann Diab, President, WEST Board

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11 of Directors; Brigitte Rivest, Director, Information Technology ENWIN Utilities, Ltd. and Rosana Kemsley, Manager Human Resources Services ENWIN Utilities, Ltd. 11. “The Phenomenal Woman Award” is given to a WEST participant (within the last five years) and was earned by Lisa Eybergen (A.V. Gauge & Fixtures). She is shown with Lido Zuccato, Chair of St. Clair College’s (award sponsor) School of Apprenticeship & Skilled Trades and Anguiano Hurst.

12. “The Innovation Award” recipient is an individual between the ages of 9 to 25.

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12 The winner was a Grade 12 student at Riverside Secondary School, Bisma Sheraz (middle) who is photographed with Dr. Martha Reavley, Odette School of Business (award sponsor) and Anguiano Hurst.

LET 'S TALK ABOUT . . .

How To Keep Up When The Going Gets Tough

By Natasha E. Feghali

W

e have to face the facts; life is hard sometimes. The number one reason people don’t get what they want is because they give up too soon!

So what does never giving up really mean?

It means believing in yourself. It means being willing to accept “failure” so you can learn the critical skill of adaptation.

It means not compromising on your most important values, and walking the walk, rather than just talking the talk.

When you are pursuing a worthwhile goal and you feel that your energy is low, this is the time to never give up.

You need to dig your heels in and brace yourself for what is to come — both the good and the bad!

It is in these tough times that we find ourselves achieving beyond measure.

In this article, you’ll learn that tough times make even the most motivated person consider giving up and how this is completely normal.

Despite the overwhelming feeling of wanting to just give up, it’s the most important time NOT to.

Life is a long or short journey and that journey happens to be tough sometimes.

We get rejected, we do not get a job offer or we feel pain from another life event. Pain is a fundamental part of life and that’s why it’s critical that we learn to stay positive when life gets us down.

Here are my five steps to re-energizing yourself when you feel like giving up . . .

1. Mistaking lessons for failure

Not being able to see the roadblock for the lesson it is and keep going anyway.

2. The outcome is more important than the journey

Putting more emphasis on the result and dismissing the importance of how you’re getting to the end goal and growing along the way.

3. Seeing the failure before it’s even happened

Self-sabotaging yourself by creating the thought that it just won’t happen. This is usually down to limiting beliefs and lack of self-belief.

© Can Stock Photo/yuryz

4. Lack of discipline

What Makes You Want To Give Up Easily

Identifying the reasons why giving up seems like the best option is so important.

There are many reasons why people want to give up and each is driven by different motivations.

However, there are a few human instincts that come into play here.

Sometimes we feel as though we are just not good enough. At other times, someone may put you down making you again feel just not good enough. It is often said that, the moment we decide to give up is the moment just before the breakthrough.

Realizing that achieving your dream won’t just fall into your lap within a few weeks, but will take hard work and determination.

5. Not adjusting to changes

Not embracing changes in direction, the need to tweak ideas or finding things evolve differently than how you originally imagined, and taking it as a sign it’s not meant to work out. These are showing you that you’re not open to changes and the natural evolution to something even more amazing.

Natasha E. Feghali is an award winning Canadian for her philanthropy in community and dedication to education.

She is an international educator working overseas throughout her career. She is the recipient of the “40 Leaders Under 40” United Way/Leadership Windsor-Essex Award 2018 and the “Sovereign Canadian Medal” in 2015. To learn more about her refer to: NatashaEFeghali.com.

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SUNDAY MAY 31, 2020

REGISTER. DONATE. FUNDRAISE.

LOCATION: Virtual Walk sites across Canada ADDRESS: www.cysticfibrosis.ca/walk/2020/ START TIME: Our Virtual Walk will begin at 9:30 a.m. via our website ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Reach out to your local Walk team at vhopper@cysticfibrosis.ca

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B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • A P R IL / M A Y 2 0 2 0

NATIONAL PARTNER:

THE WAY IT WAS

To Live In Freedom . . .

Te Leven In Vryheid

By Andrea Grimes

B

y the mid-1940s, Hitler’s ruthless jackboots had marched across much of Europe where country after neighbouring country collapsed under Germany’s tyranny.

Undoubtedly, the fears and horrors of WWII had changed every Canadian in every aspect of their daily lives. However, no matter how many challenges landed on our doorsteps, Canadians were unanimously committed to victory . . . on all fronts!

With a deep sense of pride resonating in his voice, our WWII Veteran recalls his decision to do the right thing.

“I was just 18 — some of the lads from Windsor were 17 when they enlisted,” he states. “People tell us we are the heroes, but our heroes are still over there!”

With the occupation of the Netherlands in 1944, the Dutch people suffered the horrific struggles of the “Hongerwinter” of 1944-45.

As a means to thwart further retaliation by the Dutch Resistance, the Germans imposed restrictions on transportation, thereby limiting the provision of food, fuel and medicine.

Due to severe food shortages and the most devastating winter in Europe’s history, thousands of Dutch families perished and those who managed to survive barely did so by eating tulip bulbs.

As civilians were being relentlessly persecuted by the Nazis, the Dutch Resistance, through perseverance and resolve, successfully ran interference against the Germans — where danger was always present for many who risked their lives . . . “te leven in vryheid”.

Original members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch, 28 Pipes & Drums Band, circa 1945, are pictured.

Photo courtesy of Tom Elliott, Pipe Major, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 642 Pipes & Drums Band.

Our Veteran recalls, “The landings were on. We hit the ground really hard. Were we afraid? Hell, yes! With a radio on my back, I was an easy target for the Germans.”

In the early weeks of May 1945, the German army realized the tides of war were against them and on May 5, 1945 they surrendered their occupation of the Netherlands.

On May 7, 1945 our Canadian lads and other Allied soldiers marched into Holland.

In remembering that day, our Veteran comments: “We received such an emotional welcome. From their balconies grandmothers waved their aprons. Crowds of children rushed into the streets. From out of nowhere, women jumped into our Jeeps kissing almost every soldier they could find. We heard families singing the Dutch national anthem for the first time in four years in celebration of being liberated from the Nazis.”

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Liberation of Holland — to experience the significance of rescue, liberation and

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freedom, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 642 Pipes & Drums Band (refer to: Facebook.com/groups/1448515248801393) had planned a trip to Holland in early May (now rescheduled to 2021 due to COVID-19) to honour the memory of our fallen.

Pipe Major Tom Elliott says, “Our Band has the distinction of being the oldest continuously playing Legion pipe band in North America.

During our tour, our Band will perform in the Canadian War Cemeteries of Vimy, Menin Gate, Tyne Coat, Passendale and Holten. The Band will billet with Dutch families where we will learn firsthand the central role that Canada played in the liberation of Holland. We will see daily how Dutch families are so grateful to Canada for the sacrifice our Veterans made to bring freedom to a grateful people. The warmth of this Dutch hospitality is always truly overwhelming!”

Our Veterans, of all stripes, rallied to the colours knowing in their heart of hearts that preserving our democracy was worth the sacrifice.

As the torch of remembrance is passed to another generation, we stand to honour the memory of our fallen — respecting our Veterans (who had the privilege to serve) for their unselfish commitment defending our Canadian values of democracy.

To this very day, our Veterans own these thoughts.

As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the “Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal” and the “Governor General’s Medal” recognizing her volunteer service to Veterans and military families of our Canadian Armed Forces, as well as with military family service-support organizations to include, North Wall Riders Association, Windsor Veterans Memorial Service Committee, Military Institute of Windsor, the Royal Canadian Naval Association, the Korean War Veterans Association and the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association. Writing for Biz X magazine since 2012, Andrea has brought our community closer to recognizing our Veterans for their military service and the sacrifices made to preserve our Canadian values of democracy.

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OF THE MONTH

Central Metals Corp. Sets A Gold Standard With 10 Year Anniversary Story And Photo By Dave Hall

Graphics courtesy of Central Metals Corp.

R

apid and varied fluctuations in the price of precious metals, most notably gold, are among the reasons Bosko Kacarevic returned to his hometown from Florida 10 years ago to open his own business.

Kacarevic, owner of both Central Metals Corp. and Kindigo Capital Inc., spent three years as a commodities broker in Florida and two years working as a financial planner in his hometown when he noticed there was a void in the Windsor marketplace.

“There was nobody dealing in precious metals in this area at the level I was looking at,” recounts Kacarevic. “It’s fastpaced, risky at times, but ultimately it’s very satisfying.”

Kacarevic married his wife Sandra shortly after moving back to Windsor and she’s now the office manager for the business.

He started working out of his basement then moved into a small office on Ouellette Avenue before landing at his current location in the Exec-U-Centre building at 2769 Howard Avenue.

“The allure of gold, as an alternative to government currency, has been with us for centuries,” says Kacarevic. “There are a lot of conspiracy theories regarding its fluctuating value, but it’s a fascinating way to do business.”

Back in the late 1960s, the price of gold was capped at $35 an ounce. Once the U.S. Treasury eliminated the gold standard in 1971, the price ballooned to $850 an ounce in less than 10 years.

Since then, it hit a high of $1,925 in 2011 and now hovers in the mid $1,600s.

“It’s essentially a currency without a country and provides insurance

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Bosko Kacarevic and his wife Sandra, the company’s office manager, own and operate Central Metals Corp., a precious metals dealer in Windsor. The company deals in gold, silver and platinum ingots, bars and coins, from its offices on Howard Avenue.

against a collapse in the economy,” explains Kacarevic.

Kacarevic works with clients ranging from small investors to multi-millionaires in Canada, the U.S., Asia and Europe. He deals in gold, silver and platinum, but has little, if any, on hand at any given time.

“Transactions are handled on paper and it’s essentially a transfer of ownership from one person to another or from the bank to a client,” Kacarevic indicates.

He believes gold is a long-term investment and while no interest or dividends are generated, it’s recognized as a solid

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financial investment by many in the financial services sector.

“A small percentage of every investment portfolio should include gold as an alternative source of investment,” he adds.

Silver, however, is another story.

At the time of writing (late March) it’s selling for about $14 an ounce after reaching $50 an ounce 40 years ago and shows no sign, at the moment, of reaching its previous high.

“It’s the most under-valued asset on the planet and there’s nothing else I can think of that is cheaper than it was 40 years ago,” he notes.

But, it’s in such great demand in the manufacturing of iphones and computer boards that if it reached its previous high, manufacturing of these products would skyrocket, according to Kacarevic.

Seeking to diversify, Kacarevic launched Kindigo Capital five years ago as a regulated private equity dealer, which provides opportunities for clients to place their gold and silver investments into registered retirement savings plans and tax-free saving accounts.

For more information, visit either website: CentralMetalsCorp.com or Kindigo.com.

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