Biz X magazine March 2020

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OCTOBER March 2020 2019

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Under Social Media’s Thumb

THE PARENTING BIZ A Parents’ Guide To Safe Social Media Practices For Kids And Activities For March Break

Like it, love it or share it, social media is taking over the world. So hold on to that balloon and don’t let an opportunity to engage your customers float on by! If you operate a business, it’s a necessity to have a presence on Facebook and Twitter, just to name two popular platforms.

Let’s get social and ask the experts if this type of networking is thumbs up or thumbs down. — PAGE 18

Push For Single Event Sports Betting Heats Up Windsor Chamber “Business Excellence Award” Finalists Oxford Learning Food And Clothing Drive; Green Envy; Ten Friends Diner; JunkGone Services & Girls Rock Windsor B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 0

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

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table of contents MARCH 2020 volume 23 • issue 3

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Local Oxford Learning Centres Are On A (Downtown) Mission For The Needy 6 Editorial Viewpoint: Is Windsor No Longer A Gambling Trailblazer?

Paul Burns (pictured), President and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, tells columnist Alan Halberstadt what Windsor will be missing, in cash and jobs, if the federal government doesn’t reverse its stubborn opposition to amending the criminal code to allow single event sports betting in Canada.

8 Front Lines 10 Heard On The Street 11 Awards Spotlight: The 30th Annual “Business Excellence Awards” The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce recently announced the finalists of 10 award categories and two deserving recipients for its annual “Business Excellence Awards” celebration. Want to know which companies and people are in the running? Then simply flip the page to this section now, but be sure to return back to this page right after so you don’t miss a lot of other good stuff!

15 Newsflash 16 Dates To Remember 24 Tech Bytes: Tips To Engage Your Audience On Social Media Platforms 26 F ood For Thought: Ten Friends Diner, Wyandotte East At Moy Avenue, Serves Up Good Grub And An Even Better Operation 27 XX Files: (Plant) Joy To The World, Jordynne Ropat Reigns!

30 Accounting Counts: Exit Strategies For Family Businesses 31 Portfolio Corner: Socially Responsible Investing 32 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Trash Talk With JunkGone Services 33 Ask The Experts: The Sweet Smell Of A Clean Home Sells 34 THE PARENTING BIZ: Keeping Your Kids Safe On Social Media Platforms Is your child obsessed with being on their phone or laptop constantly (photo on next column: © Can Stock Photo/AndreyPopov) and are you worried about their safety? Then it’s time to have THE talk! Just as you always tell your child to look both ways before crossing the street or to wear a

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helmet while riding their bike, teach them to be smart before they share photos, comments and opinions online. We’re here to help you get the conversation on safe social media practices started with advice from Facebook and other Internet experts.

37 March Break Guide To Fun: Activities, Camps & Events 39 Biz Bits: Can Parents Be Good Entrepreneurs?

40 Let’s Talk About: Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society New Foster Parent And Adoption Recruitment Campaign 42 Take The Lead: Girls, Get Ready To Rock And Roll 43 Making A Sound Living: Scott Boorey, Manager For Steve Miller And Gregg Rolie 45 Event Profile: Life’s A “Drag” For These Upcoming Shows 47 Hot Shots: “T2B Goes East” The theme of the 23rd annual Transition To Betterness (T2B) gala may have been inspired by Moroccan, Indian and Arabian cultures, but Biz X photographer Rod Denis didn’t have to travel too far to discover plenty of attendees ready to smile for his camera. Just one example happened in the VIP Lounge area with Doris Lapico, T2B Co-Founder and Jeff Burrows of LiUNA Bluesfest Windsor (T2B is their annual designated charity), Crash Karma and The Tea Party bands. So who else did Rod bump into on T2B’s big night? As usual, we have the photos to show you!

50 Hot Shots: In Honour Of The Ones We Love Inc. 22nd Annual "Dreams Do Come True Gala” Pics 52 From The Bookshelf : Freedom Seekers And Farmerettes 53 The Way It Was: Windsor Downtown Lions Club Celebrates 100 Years 54 Biz Of The Month: It’s Easy Being Green At Green Envy

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ON THE COVER — “Under Social Media’s Thumb“ — 18

Social media is changing how companies interact and connect with their customers. In a way, it can be “controlling” your brand and online image.

Facebook is one of the largest social media platorms in the world and one of its most recognizable images is the famous “Like” icon (thumbs up in the balloon graphic). And we all need more “likes” when we post content, so more customers learn about our brand right? So, is all this good for business or could it prove to be detrimental when negative comments are plastered on your page? Let’s find out what the Windsor Essex business community thinks.

Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/ra2studio B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 0

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FUNNY STUFF! BROUGHT TO YOU BY

“Our Furry Friends: The Pot Of Gold At The End Of Every Rainbow”

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!

Dog ate your homework?

Nah, Roxy chooses yogurt and blueberries every time!

Somebody throw Lars a frickin’ bone! All the Floor Coverings International dog wants is a special treat from a customer.

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PRESIDENT

Deborah Jones VICE-PRESIDENT

Colin Jones

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES

Oliver’s advice?

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

You can bet Odin is up to shenanigans on St. Patty’s Day.

Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator Shelley Oswald, Account Executive BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Jack Rosenberg

WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Lori Baldassi Julianna Bonnett David Clark Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh Colin Croteau Andrea Grimes Alan Halberstadt Dave Hall Taylor Lanoie Marlene Markham-Gay Steven Mayo Joe McParland Jim Murphy Alison Piccolo Ujjwal Sharma Rebecca Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodney L. Denis Photography Josie Elysia PRODUCTION DESIGN

Rae Marie

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from the publisher

Timing Is Everything

By Deborah Jones

Just before the holiday season gets underway, many companies and organizations collect donations of all kinds of items for charity, Biz X included! However, we must remember those in need require food, clothing, toiletries, a bed etc. — basic necessities we all take for granted — every day of the year.

Since we all learn by example, with the holidays long behind us, one local business is doing what it can now to help the less fortunate.

As of mid-January, Karen Kamen, Centre Director/Owner of the local Oxford Learning (customized tutoring services for children) locations, has undertaken a food and clothing drive for The Downtown Mission Of Windsor (664 Victoria Avenue, Windsor; DowntownMission.com).

“We decided to help the mission so we can give back to our community and provide help to those that are less fortunate,” explains Kamen. “The winter is especially challenging

to those without a home, food or clothing. We plan to have an ongoing relationship with the mission and help out in whatever way we can.”

On the list of non-food items needed are: socks and underwear (adult and youth sizes); toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, women’s sanitary supplies, soap) and $5 gift cards (Tim Hortons, McDonald’s, etc.)

The Food Bank is asking for: peanut butter; canned meats (tuna, ham, salmon etc.); cereals (box and oatmeal); canned fruits and vegetables; fruit cups, granola bars; juice boxes and school snacks; coffee and tea plus sugar, flour, spices and condiments.

The kitchen needs: bread, lunch meat, coffee, water, juice and breakfast items (cereal, waffles, syrup, peanut butter, jam), yogurt, and other snacks.

The “Enterprise Program” requires: toiletries; clothing for everyday and work (business, casual); coats, gloves, hats; work shoes (safety

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shoes, boots and dress shoes) and backpacks.

The Sanctuary/Dining Room is looking for items such as: deodorant; new socks; underwear; clothing; men’s shoes (most popular sizes are 8-12); women’s shoes (most popular sizes are 8-10); shampoo and conditioner; toothpaste; sunscreen and backpacks/large purses.

The Windsor Youth Centre would like donations of $5 gift cards (Tim Hortons, McDonald’s, etc.) as well as: granola bars, cereal bars, fruit cups, pudding cups, crackers, cereal; new underwear and socks; toiletries and backpacks.

And finally, the Health/Nursing department needs: Polysporin (cream or ointment); Chapstick; Vaseline (petroleum jelly); hand sanitizer/sunscreen/lotion; cough drops and Kleenex (personal/purse size).

Donations can be dropped off until March 31, 2020 at Oxford Learning’s two locations: 13300 Tecumseh Road East, Tecumseh and 5844 Malden Road, LaSalle.

Kamen hopes this drive not only helps others, “but we are also allowing our students to see how difficult it is for many people to survive. We are hoping that all involved will feel a sense of pride in being able to help others that are less fortunate.”

Thank you for helping those in our community, Karen. I hope your example inspires others to give back as well.

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editorial viewpoint

Time’s A Wastin’ To Legalize Single Event Sports Betting

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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asino gambling came to Windsor 26 years ago. I opposed it because City Council didn’t listen to my cries for a referendum.

Unencumbered, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) barged ahead and opened a temporary casino in the old Art Gallery of Windsor in May of 1994. Another temp, the Northern Belle Riverboat Casino, opened in December of 1994.

Windsor was off to the races as Ontario’s first legalized gambling trailblazer. The temporary houses proved to be such a money cow that the permanent casino was bought and paid for by the time it opened in 1998, and the OLG built the art gallery a new edifice to boot.

Detroiters had previously opposed legalized gambling in two referendums, but couldn’t open three temporary downtown casinos fast enough when they realized that Windsor was eating their lunch.

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How the tables have turned!

In 2020, it appears certain that Detroit will beat Windsor to the punch by introducing single event sports betting while the Canadian government continues almost a decade of dithering.

Following a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court legalizing single game betting, Michigan was among the first 20 states to sign it into law on December 20 last year.

Single event betting differs from parlay betting, like Pro Line, where gamblers combine multiple individual bets into one bet.

The three Detroit casinos need to acquire licences before wagering begins, although there is a possibility that could be rushed through in time for the “March Madness” college basketball tournament, starting March 17.

Windsor West MP Brian Masse is the

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single event crusader on this side of the border, after taking over the file from NDP brother, Joe Comartin, who retired in 2015.

Comartin won support from all parties for his private member’s bill for legalization in the House of Commons in 2012, only to see it stall in a dysfunctional senate and not brought to a vote.

Since then, the Liberals have shown little interest in amending the criminal code to make single game betting legal, even after the changed circumstances in the U.S. have raised fears that Michigan casinos will pilfer customers from casinos across Canada.

Federal Justice Minister David Lametti, buttressed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has indicated that gambling reform is not a priority. It’s small potatoes compared to other matters like the First Nations rail blockade.

This maddens Masse, who notes that professional sports leagues no longer oppose single game betting, an about face from 2012 when the senate faced heavy lobbying from major league baseball. The premise then was that legalization could lead to the fixing of games to cash in on big bets.

So what’s the problem now?

“They just can’t be bothered,” fumes Masse, essentially accusing Trudeau’s government of being lazy. “This issue is the poster child for how the Liberals just don’t want to work.”

Masse and Irek Kusmierczyk, rookie Liberal MP for Windsor-Tecumseh, organized a round table of Windsor’s community leaders from business and labour, on December 17, 2019, to highlight the urgency of the matter.

Masse went on a road trip in mid-January 2020 to ramp up support and awareness from Casino Woodbine and Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls. He dropped off an online petition at Trudeau’s office.

Meanwhile, Masse has been “pleasantly surprised” by the support he’s been getting from all parties, including Conservative MPs. “There’s a greater appreciation that we are getting our clock cleaned,” he says, noting that most provinces support the cause.

With the House of Commons back on February 18, Masse’s people turned the spotlight on Kusmierczyk for not aggressively advocating for the cause after promising support during his 2019 federal election campaign.

“We need somebody to champion it,” Masse told me before heading back to Ottawa.

Kusmierczyk spent much of his time in mid-February travelling around the region with Liberal cabinet ministers handing out cheques in the name of economic development, culture and job creation.

When I reached him by phone, he insisted his support has not evaporated.

The Liberal Government just can’t be bothered to do the work to legalize single sports event betting in Canada, fumes Windsor West MP Brian Masse. Photo courtesy of Brian Masse.

“This is an important opportunity for our community to create additional jobs . . . and we need to protect 2,500 jobs,” he stressed, alluding to the workforce at Caesars Windsor.

Kusmierczyk indicated he is lobbying MPs and Liberal caucus members behind the scenes, and claims he conveyed the message to Lametti on the urgency of the matter.

The way forward, he stated, will probably come as another private members bill. It won’t be his bill since he is a parliamentary secretary and not eligible. The bill would need to pass first, second and third readings, be sent to a standing committee of the Ministry of Justice, and then passed on to the senate.

Paul Burns, President and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, representing gaming operators and suppliers across Canada, estimates that a private members process could take a year.

Masse has called for an order-in-council

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to fast track the process. There is a recent precedent, he informs. Three years ago the PM and cabinet passed an order to permit the enhancement of the Ambassador Bridge in a 17 page document. Don’t bet the farm on that happening again.

This is not just a bunch of people betting on a football game. Wads of money and economic spinoffs are at stake. New Jersey, which rushed through the licensing process after the Supreme Court ruling 18 months ago, has enjoyed a 15 percent bump in attendance since introducing single event sports betting at its Atlantic City casinos.

Burns estimates that $4 billion is wagered annually offshore and on-line with none of that avarice benefitting the Canadian taxpayers. An estimated $10 billion a year is consumed by organized crime.

“The idea that if it’s not legal it doesn’t exist is crazy,” lectures Burns.

He lists spinoffs of legalizing betting on single sports games. New tech software services, sports data and marketing companies are being developed around the world.

“That’s why we’re not going away,” Burns promises.

He and Masse can smell the blood on Parliament Hill, but the question remains — how long it will take to drink the nectar?

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FRONTLINES

Three Years And Sewing Suits This Erie Street Shop To A Tee The Suit Shop Co. Ltd., 593 Erie Street East, Windsor, held its third annual “Anniversary and Sale Event” on the evenings of February 7 and 8 with over 100 coming out to show their support.

“A very warm, heartfelt thank you to all my clients over the last three years who have each played a key role in my success,” expresses Owner Lazaros Dimitriou. “Thank you for your support, thank you for your business and most importantly, thank you for having the trust in me to make you look your best, either on your wedding day or just another day at the office.”

The shop features a wide selection of men’s formal wear, including: top quality suits, pants, tuxedos, jackets, coats, shirts, ties, pocket squares and accessories. Dimitriou also offers custom suits and made-to-measure shirts. (Visit: TheSuitShopCo.com) Dimitriou believes his key to success is “Taking time to listen to my clients’ needs and educating them on their garment — its construction and craftsmanship. I want my customer to feel reassured they are getting a fine quality garment tailored to their body — so they are confident in knowing they look good and are well dressed. I believe that my love and passion, my attention

to detail and my willingness to offer the best service and retail experience in town, is really evident to all my clients.”

Dimitriou celebrated this passion for fashion in style with the two-day anniversary event, featuring snacks, music, cocktails and 30 percent off all merchandise in stock.

Enjoying the Saturday night festivities (photo at left by Julianna Bonnett) were: Dr. John Pispidikis, Spinal Recovery Center of Warren, Michigan; Sam Theocharis, Retired Police Chief from Stratford; Lazaros Dimitriou, Owner of The Suit Shop Co. Ltd.; Makarios Manuel, Owner of London Music Hall and John Davakos, Owner of London Denture Clinic & Hearing Care.

And after all the shopping was done, when guests craved something sweet at the anniversary party, Sottozero Catering made all their ice cream dreams come true!

Owners Lisa Constante and Giovanni Arcuri (in photo above), were on hand scooping out many flavours of Artisan Gelato, such as Pistachio, French Vanilla and Coffee Bean.

Biz X magazine is very proud of how well Dimitriou has done since earning the 2017 “Finest Place For Business Attire” Award.

Cheers to many more years of success!

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FRONTLINES New Sk8 Store Set To Roll Into Sandwich Towne

Store Manager Shalem Thompson and Bliss Skateboard Shop owner Sasha Senior, prepare to officially open the Sandwich Street business in March. Photo by Dave Hall.

Filling an equipment void for a fastgrowing sport, Olde Sandwich Towne’s Bliss Skateboard Shop in expected to open for business on March 20, 2020.

Located at 3216 Sandwich Street, the shop will sell skateboards, t-shirts, wheels and many other accessories for the avid skateboarder.

“There’s really been nowhere else you can go that specializes in skateboard products and I think it’s the right time to do something for skateboarders,” says owner Sasha Senior, an experienced skateboarder herself.

Senior started skateboarding at age 13 and has been doing it ever since, in her spare time.

“It’s one of the few sports you can do on your own,” she states. “It’s great with other people, but you can do it solo and still have a lot of fun.”

Senior hopes her store will be a gathering spot for area skateboarders even when they’re not looking to buy anything.

“It can be a place to hang out, talk to other skateboarders, get information on competitions and just generally connect with people sharing the same interests,” she adds.

Shalem Thompson, another skateboarder, will manage the store on a daily basis.

“I’ve been skateboarding since I was 12 and I fell in love with it,” he comments. “So this is going to be a great job and a great store for anyone interested in skateboarding.”

The name of the business came from Senior’s friend, Mario Notice, a professional skateboarder on the Jamaica Skateboard Federation team and the artist who painted the “WAR Bear” (a grizzly bear wearing a military helmet) hanging on the shop’s wall.

“Bliss” was appropriate as it appeals to both male and female customers and Senior “believes every skater is happy at some point when they skate. When they land that trick they’ve been working on they get that snippet of happiness and that moment is bliss.”

With a skateboard park just minutes away in Atkinson Park, Senior feels her location is perfectly positioned to draw in customers.

Senior, who works fulltime as a Human Resources Administrator for the Canadian Army Reserve at F.A. Tilston Armoury (just up the street from the shop), informs Biz X her store will likely be open six days a week in the spring and summer months and five days a week in the off-season.

“The neighbourhood has been very welcoming already,” Senior points out.

“I think they’re very receptive and encouraged that we were able to fill a vacant storefront so quickly.”

Senior had been looking for a location for a few months and spotted an ad on Kijiji. The ad had only been up for about 25 minutes when she decided to go for it.

Previously occupied by Lowend Co. — a Windsor vintage clothing store, which has relocated downtown to 365 Pelissier Street — the skateboard store is located in the heart of Sandwich Towne.

Owners of Lowend had started a signature wall, which customers were invited to sign and Senior is going to continue doing the same.

“It’s a great idea and we’re not painting it over,” she notes.

More information on this new biz can be found on: Facebook.com/BlissSk8Shop.

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HEARD ON THE STREET After nearly 40 years of operation, a popular Italian restaurant and banquet hall in Tecumseh closed its doors on January 1. The building where Torino Plaza and Banquet Hall was located at 12049 Tecumseh Road East has been sold says restaurant owner Sandro DeLuca. “We’ve had a good run and been very blessed with loyal clientele, but it’s time to take a step back and recharge the batteries,” says DeLuca. The restaurant started as a take-out spot across the street before moving into larger quarters where it catered to individual diners and large groups attending banquets. The restaurant was established by DeLuca’s father Jerry, a former head cook at the Elmwood Casino. “He was the impetus behind it all,” says his son. “My dad came from nothing, essentially.

He was a dishwasher first and worked his way up to owning his own place.” DeLuca is still thinking about the future and hasn’t decided whether or not to re-open somewhere else. DeLuca says he’s not sure what the building’s new owners have in store for his family’s former restaurant . . . but you know Biz X will do our best to find out!

Beer lovers might want to set aside April 18 when WindsorEats stages its first “Masters of the Brewniverse” — a beer-tasting competition featuring as many as six local craft breweries.

Organizer Adriano Ciotoli of WindsorEats reports there will be beer-flight tastings during both afternoon and evening sessions with $1,200 in prizes offered for people’s choice and judges’ panel winners. All the breweries will be offering one-off selections, brewed exclusively for the competition.

Breweries committed to the competition include: Banded Goose Brewing Co. (15 Main Street East, Kingsville; BandedGooseBrewing.com); Frank Brewing Co. (12000 Tecumseh Road East, Tecumseh; FrankBeer.ca); GL Heritage Brewing Co. (8728 Howard Avenue, Windsor; GLHeritageBrewing.ca); The Grove Brewing House (12 Main St. East,

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Kingsville; BrewEatSleepRepeat.com); Sons of Kent Brewing Co. (27 Adelaide Street South, Chatham; SonsOfKent.com) and Top Dog Brewing Company, a soon-to-beopened brewery. The event takes place inside the Accelerator (DowntownAccelerator.com), 1501 Howard Avenue in Windsor. A limited number of tickets (200 per session) are available online at: WindsorEats.com. Tickets for the 1 to 5 p.m. session are $41 and tickets for the 7 to 11 p.m. second session (when the winner is announced) are $46. Included in the price is 80 ounces of beer in tasting flights. Food will be provided by Robbie’s Gourmet Sausage Co. (1512 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor; Facebook.com/RobbiesGourmetSausages).

Lagos Grill — the latest addition to the downtown Windsor dining scene — has been open for about two months, serving traditional Nigerian cuisine to a cross-section of diners. The owner of the restaurant is Lawrence Adu. Manager Tolu Oluleye says business has been picking up steadily since opening day at 433 Ouellette Avenue. “It’s better than we had initially expected,” she says.

The menu features a variety of barbecue dishes, jerk chicken, goat meat, plantains and a number of rice dishes including jollof, a traditional dish made from basmati rice, red peppers, onions and tomatoes. Details on weekly food specials can be viewed on: Facebook.com/naijafoodstop.

Transforming a former CIBC Bank building in Walkerville into a restaurant, bar and event space, is still about 12 months away from completion, according to the building’s owner, Vito Maggio.

He also owns Vito’s Pizzeria (1731 Wyandotte Street East; VitosPizzeria.net) and O’Maggio’s Kildare House (1880 Wyandotte Street East; KildareHouse.com). Maggio says the project is moving through the planning and permit process.

“It’s moving ahead slowly and surely,” he adds.

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“It’s an amazing building and we want to make sure we preserve as much of it as we can.” Maggio plans to leave the exterior of the 145 year old limestone building, at the corner of Devonshire Road and Assumption Street, completely intact while making changes indoors. Those changes will include a long bar, a rooftop patio and an event space for private parties inside the former bank’s cavernous vault. “I drive by that building on a regular basis and I always wanted to buy it and transform it,” states Maggio. “Some people like to buy Ferraris, I like to buy and repurpose beautiful buildings.” And we like that too!

Plans for a water taxi service between Windsor Yacht Club and Amherstburg, as well as a service between Windsor and Detroit, are on hold, according to the owner and operator of Windsor River Cruises. “We just decided the distances between stops along our riverfront are too far apart and that it wasn’t really feasible for a quick onand-off service,” explains John Sheridan. “Our end game was always to run a service between Windsor and Detroit, but the cross-border permits and paperwork are pretty daunting, so we have put it all on hold for now and we are concentrating on our core sailings instead.” Sheridan’s company offers dinner and sightseeing cruises as well as special event nights with live music and karaoke (see: WindsorRiverCruises.com for a schedule).

He plans to add paint nights called “Sip and Swirl” as well as Hawaiian and Mexican-themed nights beginning with the first sailing on May 4.

“We cater to a lot of repeat customers so we have to keep it fresh and try different events to keep people coming back,” explains Sheridan.

The City of Windsor is holding an open house March 4 to give residents an opportunity to discuss the issue of Short Term Rentals (STR) operated by such businesses as Airbnb, Vrbo and HomeAway. The city, currently, has no regulations governing these STRs and is seeking input to determine whether or not it wants to enact a series of regulations, given the growth of the industry.

The open house runs from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the atrium at the Windsor International Aquatic Training Centre at 401 Pitt Street West. An online survey will be open following the meeting and run until 4 p.m. on March 7. To access the survey, visit the customer service link: CityWindsor.ca.

AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

The 30th Annual “Business Excellence Award” Finalists Photos courtesy of Rebecca Lefebvre

T

he Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce and Presenting Sponsor Windsor Star, recently announced the finalists of 10 award categories and two award winners for the 30th annual “Business Excellence Awards” (BEA) during a reception at The Art Gallery of Windsor, 401 Riverside Drive West, Windsor.

The majority of the winners are revealed the night of the awards ceremony, Thursday, May 21, 2020, at the Chrysler Theatre.

A post-award dinner follows in the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts Skyline Ballrooms.

Tickets are now available on the website: WindsorEssexChamber.org.

However, during the January 15, 2020 press conference, two award recipients (top right) were announced who are also formally recognized during the May ceremony.

“Entrepreneur of the Year” Finalists — Charlie Hotham (Hotham Building Materials); Nancy Campana (Nouveau Event Planning) and Michael Difazio (Michael Difazio Reclaim Artistry)

“Believe Windsor Essex Award” RECIPIENT — Farrow represented by Romeo Girardi and Walter Pizzolitto

CONGRATS TO THESE TWO WINNERS! “ATHENA Leadership Award” RECIPIENT — Marlene Corey (YourTV)

PRESENTING THE 2020 BEA FINALISTS . . .

(Pictured from the left with representatives named if necessary).

“Small Company of the Year” Finalists — Colasanti Controls (Steve and Yvet Colasanti); Shoppers Drug Mart Devonshire Mall (Dr. Matthew Thibert) and Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards (David Meloche).

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30th annual “Business Excellence Awards” Finalist photos continue . . .

“New Company of the Year” Finalists — Sandwich Brewing Company (Jason Sekela, Scott Black and Carrie Sekela); Plant Joy (Jordynne Ropat) and Float Lakeshore (Dr. Paul Bondy).

“Mid-Size Company of the Year” Finalists — Brookstone Windows & Doors (Ken Sherman); Essex Powerlines Corporation (Amanda Panetta and Kris Taylor, far right) and Brave Control Solutions Inc. (Greg Sullivan, middle and second from right, Brent McPhail).

“Large Company of the Year” Finalists — Champion Products (Amit and Ashok Sood); Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing Ltd. (Brian Bendig, Brenda Quint and Tim Galbraith) and Reliance Home Comfort (Lynda Pizzolitto).

How to elevate your brand for high value success!

Gail Robertson

Keynote Speaker & Brand Consultant gailnow.com

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GailNow

BEA Professional of the Year Finalist

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“Professional of the Year” Finalists — Gail Robertson (GailNow); Jonathon Azzopardi (Laval Tool & Mould Ltd.) and Janice Kaffer (Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare).

“Green Innovation” Finalists — Green Tree Professional Tree Service (Kristi and Erik Amonite); GreenerBins Composting Company (Dane Fader and Alley Biniarz) and Devonshire Mall (Karen Niforos and Chris Savard).

“Young Professional of the Year” Finalists — Kavaughn Boismier (Boismier Wealth Advisory of RBC Dominion Securities Group); Ryan Donally (WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation) and Dr. Maxwell Abraham (Abraham Orthodontics).

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30th annual “Business Excellence Awards” Finalist photos continue . . .

“Tourism & Hospitality” Finalists — J.P. Wiser’s Distillery Experience (Bianca Mancina); North 42 Degrees Estate Winery (Suzanne Dajczak and Martin Gorski) and Walkerville Brewery (Natalie Dolman and Ron Parent).

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“Pillars of our Community” Finalists — Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex County Branch (Kim Willis); Fight Like Mason Foundation (Ian Macri and Chantelle Bacon) and Family Services Windsor-Essex (Judy Lund and Claudia den Boer).

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NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN Nominations are now open for the Town of Kingsville’s third annual “Business Recognition Awards”, sponsored by Libro Credit Union and RC Spencer Associates Inc. “There is considerable passion for our local businesses within Kingsville,” says Mayor Nelson Santos. “Last year we received an incredible response from the community in nominating businesses, and we expect to see that same enthusiasm again this year.” The Kingsville “Business Recognition Awards” recognize the many contributions local businesses have made within the Town, demonstrating their support for the growth of their community.

Previously winners were selected in three categories: “Business of the Year”, “Business Innovation” and “Young Entrepreneur”.

Five additional award categories have now been announced for 2020 including: “Corporate Social Responsibility”, “AgriBusiness Award”, “Culinary Excellence”, “Retail Excellence”, and the “Economic Development Award”. Those interested in nominating a business have until March 29, 2020 to fill out the online form at: Kingsville. ca/businessawards. Finalists are announced in April 2020. “Business Recognition Award” winners are revealed during the presentation ceremony on Thursday, May 28, 2020 at the Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre, 103 Park Street, Kingsville. Tickets are $70 per person, or $500 for a table of eight and can be purchased on the Town’s website (see above).

Deliverbae, a Windsor tech start-up is now expanding to outer county regions.

Deliverbae — a platform started up by a group of young, driven university students (Miraj Hossain, A K M Mehedi Hassan and Matt Deleersnyder) — offers an online on-demand delivery service for any type of product. Yes, anything from food, clothes, and cosmetics, or even a shovel, during the winter months, from your local hardware store, can be delivered! This local service introduces a convenient way to shop, saving you time and money. Since 2018 Deliverbae has made its way across the Windsor area by partnering with local businesses, such as: Oven 360, Schwabs & Primo’s Finest in Meat and Sausage, BB Branded, Alpha X Nutrition, and more. The expansion to Amherstburg is a smart move as the town did not currently have an on-demand delivery service. After a launch on February 12, Deliverbae was officially the first to launch its platform there.

With over 160 driver applications submitted

The first on-demand delivery service is now in the town of Amherstburg thanks to Deliverbae. Pictured is Deliverbae new partner, Bull’s Eye Pizza (139 Sandwich Street), owner Jordan White (left) with Linden Crain, Deliverbae Business Development Manager for Amherstburg. Photo courtesy of Deliverbae.

to Deliverbae, they’re more than prepared to help service residents in the Amherstburg community. A large number of businesses in Amherstburg now have the opportunity to introduce delivery at their stores. This will ultimately drive up traffic in the economy and provide businesses with the opportunity to market their products on the Deliverbae app, website, and social media platforms. The best part about Deliverbae is the ability to allow businesses and their products to be shared on a universal app found on both the Apple store and Android Play Store. For more information email: info@deliverbae.com.

And if you are a business in Canada looking to partner with this company, you can use the following email address to learn more: partners@deliverbae.com.

NEW IN BIZ As of last month, there’s a brand new PR biz in the region that can help with press releases, interview preparation, press conference organization, communications strategies and plenty more. Casalrone Public Relations, founded in February 2020, is a boutique PR firm with a goal to help small businesses in Essex County and southwestern Ontario protect their brand and tell THEIR story. Casalrone specializes in brand management, media relations and strategic communications. “With over six years of public relations and media B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 0

relations experience both in Canada and internationally, Casalrone Public Relations is prepared to help you ‘Protect your Brand!’” expresses Massimo De Menech, President and Director of Public Relations.

Casalrone is located in the Greenwood Centre (3200 Deziel Drive, Suite 416) in Windsor and can be reached by emailing: casalronepr@gmail.com. Find further details about their services and view their latest posts on: Facebook.com/CasalronePR. Are you stuck home on a Friday night tired of the same old dinner and a movie?

Or maybe even hanging out at the mall or working on your computer just for something to do? Don’t sweat it . . . there’s a new entertainment option in Amherstburg!

Last summer, 32 year old entrepreneur Mitch Humphries opened Esc Aburg, 66 Richmond Street, Unit 205, a onethemed, multi escape room activity that offers fun for everyone. Themed during the War of 1812 in Amherstburg, Humphries and his team take you on an adventure of deceit, treason, team work and most importantly, test your survival skills with brain busting puzzles. With love for the town itself with all its beauty and history, as well as the simple fact the town is growing and did not have much to offer in the form of regular entertainment for the increasing population, Humphries seized the opportunity to start his new biz. “Nobody wants to travel to the city for a night out if they don’t have to — and why should they?” states Humphries who wanted to add to the growth of the town by providing a place that would benefit other local business at the same time. “Come make it a night out in our beautiful town, enjoy some laughs while being locked up in the escape room, then continue that evening by grabbing a bite at a local pub and taking a stroll in the Kings Navy Yard,” he suggests.

“Amherstburg is really a beautiful place if you have a chance to truly appreciate what it has to offer.” Esc Aburg has found a way to accommodate everyone as best as they can with open availability and rooms are by reservations only. They also have birthday, corporate, and human resource packages plus general bookings for hanging out with friends or family. Make it a competition or just go for fun, either way great memories and good laughs are on the agenda. With more plans for the future, this is just the start for Esc Aburg. So if you are ready for some fun, check out: EscAburg.ca.

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DATES TO REMEMBER

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March/April2020

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

Please be sure to confirm all events before attending.

March 5: In honour of “International Women’s Day” the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation presents “How Women Are Using Tech To Change the World” from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside Drive East in Windsor. This event is open to the general public with admission set at $40 (dinner included). Register online at: Celebrating-Women-In-Tech.eventbrite.ca.

For more event information, email Nicole Anderson: nanderson@windsoressexsmallbusiness.com; refer to: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com or dial 255-9200.

March 6: “Negotiating with Confidence” presented by the Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation with Guest Speaker Fotini Iconomopoulos runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Institute for Border Logistics and Security, 3475 Wheelton Drive, Windsor. Earning the nickname “The Negotiator” as a child, the Guest Speaker has spent the last decade helping business executives achieve their business goals, increase profitability and create a competitive advantage. She empowers them, along with her Schulich School of Business MBA students, through her expertise in negotiation, communication and persuasion. Space is limited to allow for maximum learning so brace yourself for some tangible, instant, personal feedback on how to: Negotiate anything; Get power and learn to use it; Communicate confidently to get what you want and Manage difficult people.

Admission is $50 and lunch is included. To learn more email: nanderson@windsoressexsmallbusiness.com; go visit the website: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com or phone 255-9200.

March 6: Come out early before the Windsor Express game for an exclusive concert at 6 p.m. with singer Alexa Carroccia, in the Crown Royal Room of the WFCU Centre, 8787 McHugh Street, Windsor. Tickets are $20 and include entry to the game as well. Get your tickets by emailing: alexacarr55@gmail.com or calling 560-7707.

March 6 and 7; 12 to 14; 19 to 21: Ghost Light Players makes their debut at The Shadowbox Theatre (corner of Shepherd and Howard in Windsor, the home of Post Productions) with Yasmina Reza’s scathing social satire “God of Carnage” starring Jeff Bastien, Kristen Dias, Matt Maenpaa and Elinor Price. All performances are at 8 p.m., with doors opening up at 7:30 p.m. Tickets available for $20 in advance on: Eventbrite.com, or $25 at the door. Questions? Check: Facebook.com/pg/GhostlightPlayers or call 817-9176.

March 8: Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. presents the “International Women’s Day Gala” at 6:30 p.m. at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West in Windsor. Tickets are $90 each and available online at: WestOfWindsor.com.

March 8: From 7 to 9 p.m. Lakeland Homes presents a “Spring Strings Community Concert” with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra at The Capitol Theatre, 121 University Avenue West, Windsor. It’s a great concert for a great cause as 100% of ticket proceeds benefit Windsor Life Centre’s addiction treatment Centre and help transform the lives of women from

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across Canada seeking recovery. Tickets $30 at the door or purchase your tickets online in advance for just $25 at: CapitolTheatreWindsor.ca. For further details email: development@windsorlifecentre.com; view: WindsorLifeCentre.com or call 972-5986.

March 13: The Ciociaro Club (3745 North Talbot Road, Oldcastle) observes “International Women’s Day” with its 16th annual celebration in honour of all the amazing women in Windsor and Essex County. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. and features a wonderful meal, a walkthru fashion show and a chance to shop at some fabulous beauty and accessory vendors. Tickets are $55 with all proceeds to benefit the Windsor Regional Hospital Breast Health Centre. If you would like to attend this event simply contact Ilde Mariani by phone: 991-2743.

March 14 and 15: The 7th annual “Windsor 50+ Lifestyle Show” presented by Vantage Enterprises Inc. takes place at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue in Windsor from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. both days. Admission is $5 at the door. This event features interactive and informative displays, new and innovative products and services, free mini-treatments, health screenings and a wide range of community resources for boomers and seniors. You’ll find plenty of information about retirement, health/wellness, leisure activities, active living and lifestyle options plus fantastic travel deals, great shopping, lots of prizes and giveaways as well as exclusive offers and discounts from exhibitors. For more information email: vantageevents@mnsi.net; refer to: Windsor50PlusShow.com or dial 735-1142.

March 17: Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Support a local company in the hospitality industry and stop by an area bar or restaurant for a pint of green beer and a corned beef sandwich.

March 21: The 13th anniversary of “Say Yes to the Prom Dress” takes place at New Beginnings, 1015 Highland Avenue in Windsor from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Young women from the community can come out and choose the perfect dress from a huge selection of formal, prom and graduation dresses in sizes 0 to 26. To get more details email Stacey at: syannacopoulos@newbe.ca; see: NewBeginningsWindsor.com or call 971-0973 ext. 102.

March 27 to April 5: “Stag and Doe”, a production by the University Players takes place at the Essex Hall Theatre (corner of Wyandotte and Patricia in Windsor) from 8 until 10:30 p.m. Two brides, two grooms, a tray of unset Jello shots, a missing wedding cake, and a catering staff that’s been sent to jail — what else can go wrong in this hilarious romp through the kitchen of a local community hall? Bonnie and Brad are having a party to raise money for their upcoming wedding, just at the same moment that Mandy and Rob have lost their venue.

They decide to compromise and work together to create an unforgettable evening that will have the audience roaring with laughter! Admission is $8 to $22. For more info email: kristen.siapas@uwindsor.ca; check: UniversityPlayers.com or call 253-3000.

March 28: The Amherstburg Freedom Museum in partnership with The Amherstburg Community B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 0

Foundation presents “Freedom Achievers” from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at their location, 277 King Street, Amherstburg. Diversity and Inclusion Advocate and author of “Black on Bay Street”, Hadiya Roderique shares career advice, but also how she overcame obstacles in order to achieve success. Seating is limited, so get your tickets early! Cost to attend is $8 for adults by March 14 ($10 after) and for students, tickets are $3 by March 14 ($5 after). Tickets can be purchased on: Freedom-Achievers-Finding-Your-Voice. eventbrite.ca or by calling 736-5433. For more details contact Lorene Bridgen-Lennie, Assistant Curator for the Amherstburg Freedom Museum via email: lorene.bridgen@amherstburgfreedom.org; visiting: AmherstburgFreedom.org or calling 736-5433.

March 29: The 38th annual “Easter Seals Telethon (Windsor Essex)” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — presented

by The Toldo Foundation — wraps up a month long celebration for Easter Seals Month at the Student Life Centre at St. Clair College, 2000 Talbot Road in Windsor. The telethon is a community tradition and signature event that engages students, donors, media, volunteers, businesses, sponsors and the public throughout the region. Join host Mark McKenzie of 89X and ambassadors Brigid Kidd and Alexander Bondy on this exciting broadcast live on CTV (Bell Media) as the community raises funds to help kids with physical disabilities. Did you know Easter Seals Ontario’s birthplace is Windsor, Ontario? The organization, which was formerly The Ontario Society of Crippled Children was established on November 28, 1922 with thanks to the support of Rotary Club of Windsor 1918. The centennial will be celebrated in 2022! For more information on how your company can get involved in the telethon, email: jrenaud@easterseals.org; log on to: EasterSeals.org or phone 566-1735.

April 4: The “Whiskers and Tails Gala” presented by The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society takes place at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Dr West in Windsor from 6 until 11 p.m. Celebrating the event theme — humane heroes — Designs by Diane promises to transform the banquet room into a superhero themed experience you will never forget! For just $125 per person, gather your friends and family for a delicious four course meal and drinks; meet Humane Society alumni animals and learn more about what the Humane Society does for our community. Come dressed in your finest gala attire and use your superpowers on this special night to help save animals in need! Tickets are $125 each with tables of 8, 9, or 10 seats available.

For further details email: events@windsorhumane.org; view: WindsorHumane.org or call 966-5751.

April 7: The 28th annual St. Clair College “Alumni of Distinction Awards” take place at the Alumni Skyline Room, St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West starting with a reception at 6:15 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets $60 each; tables of 8 or 10 available. Learn more about the awards at: StClairAlumni.com or dial 972-2747.

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COVER STORY By Dave Hall

Social Media Marketing 101 For Business T

he explosion of social media platforms in recent years has dramatically transformed the way that businesses and organizations interact with their customers and clients.

In this highly-competitive global marketplace, companies not using social media platforms to reach out to customers and clients are at a distinct disadvantage.

Traditional advertising and marketing media strategies tend to use a broad-based approach in reaching out to potential clients and customers, whereas platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Reddit, YouTube and Pinterest can allow business owners to target specific demographic groups, while at the same time providing instant feedback.

While many other platforms are finding their own piece of the social media marketplace, Facebook remains one of the most popular with an estimated 24 million Canadians actively using the platform each month.

And of those, 19 million are using Facebook’s mobile apps. Also, 79% of Facebook users in Canada are connected to a small/medium business, or common Internet file interest, which allows shared access to Internet files on a network, according to Facebook Canada.

Social media platforms allow businesses to develop a brand image, curate content from different platforms, manage their marketing and advertising initiatives, and develop original content allied with their products.

Retail businesses can promote sales and display products; restaurants can post menus and photos of their food; and bars can advertise upcoming events and concerts, all while targeting their specific demographic.

While it can be time-consuming for many small businesses, it’s imperative they use these platforms, which for the most part are free, to market their businesses in an ever-changing competitive marketplace.

But, before any business owners contemplate a social media campaign, they

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should develop a plan that includes what they are looking to achieve, who their audience is and what message they are hoping to spread.

Social media campaigns (paid sponsor ads can be done as well) and posts, can also drive customers and clients to your website where they can access more information about your business.

In order to help business owners navigate their way through some of the pros and cons, pitfalls and challenges involved with using social media platforms, Biz X magazine reached out to the local business community to interview some of the experts and users across the Windsor Essex area.

Advantages Of Social Media

It’s critically important for any business to have a presence on one or more of the various social media platforms, especially at a time when competition is so fierce across all sectors.

“It’s really important for any business hoping to reach out to customers that they have a consistent and updated presence on social media,” says Nichole Howson, Owner of Aim Social Media Marketing (AimSMmarketing.com). “It is absolutely one of the best ways to get your company’s information out there to a different audience.”

One of the main advantages is that by selecting which platform to use whether it be Facebook, TicToc, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube or Instagram, a business owner can tailor his or her message to the demographic they are trying to reach.

Cynthia Ballard of CB Marketing (CBmarketing.solutions) believes that for businesses trying to reach females between the ages of 35 to 45, Facebook is the place to be, while LinkedIn is more for business-tobusiness contacts.

“Instagram has a wide range of followers, both male and female, and it’s a very visual site similar to TicToc, so it’s important you determine who you are trying to reach and focus on that demographic,” says Ballard.

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Over 140 million small businesses globally now use Facebook products — the vast majority of them for free. More than threequarters (81%) of Canada’s Internet population is on Facebook and 98% percent of smart phone users in Canada access it every month on their device. It seems quite clear then, if you operate a business or organization, having a business page like the one shown here, is an absolute necessity. Graphic courtesy of Facebook.

Andy Kale, a partner at Red Piston (RedPiston.com), a social media management and web development company, believes every company needs a presence on Facebook because that platform is still where most people go to find information.

“But, you also need a presence on one or more of the others depending upon who your target audience is and whether it’s 20 to 30 year olds or 18 to 25 year olds,” says Kale.

Scott Briscoe has been an instructor in the advertising program at St. Clair College for 10 years and the explosion of social media platforms and usage has had a huge impact.

“In a digital marketing age, social media is fantastic because it’s low-cost, it’s efficient and very effective so long as you know what you are doing, what message you’re sending and what demographic you are hoping to reach,” he points out.

Briscoe adds that, unlike print and broadcast campaigns, it’s easy to fine-tune that message overnight if you realize it is not reaching your target audience.

“The beauty of social media is that collectively it is all things to all people,” he expresses.

For Steven Spencler of Spencler Creative (SpenclerCreative.com), the immediacy of responses from clients and

customers sets social media apart from traditional advertising and marketing tools.

“Many of the platforms provide analytics, so you can tell at a glance how many hits and how many responses you are generating,” says Spencler. “It helps you determine whether or not what you are doing is working or whether you need to step up your game.”

To Post Or Not To Post — That Is The Question

Posting on social media can be time consuming, especially for small businesses that don’t have a social media department, or even a person whose sole responsibility is to interact with potential customers on a myriad of platforms. Ensure your time is well spent.

Ballard figures it can take between four and six hours a month to stay current and consistent, which is also very important.

“I suggest to clients they plan out in advance what they want to say and what they want to post, so when they sit down, they can be as efficient as possible so it’s not as timeconsuming,” she explains.

Ballard adds that if you commit to a schedule — say three days a week and stick to it — that’s when people will expect to see what you have posted.

“Customers can come to expect what you post and when you post, so it’s important to be consistent,” she says.

Spencler recommends his clients post once a day, providing they can generate enough original content.

“Depending upon the business, finding that content can be pretty easy, but it can be a challenge for others,” admits Spencler.

“The key is to be consistent and make sure the branding message remains the same throughout the posts.”

For Howson, posting daily is the best strategy, but certainly she suggests her clients post no less than weekly.

“It’s so easy to post on social media and for small businesses it’s more efficient than trying to update a website, especially if you

Nichole Howson of Aim Social Media Marketing believes there are many steps business owners need to take to reach out to their clients and customers, including regular postings on various social media platforms.

Photo courtesy of Heather Brooks Photography.

have to deal with a web developer who set up the site in the first place,” she remarks.

But, Howson adds, make sure you create fresh content and have a consistent presence so customers know when and where to look for information about your business.

“My suggestion to clients is to sit down and create a month’s worth of content at one sitting, which makes posting weekly or daily so much more efficient,” she explains.

Arms Bumanlag and his wife Kerri launched littleheart social (LittleHeartSocial.com), a social media management company, last July and ramped up the company’s offerings in September.

He’s a firm believer in posting original content on a daily basis and if that becomes too time-consuming for small business owners, they need to hire someone to handle it.

“You have to make your content relatable to your customers and clients and do it in a warmer, more personal manner,” says Bumanlag, a former broadcast journalist

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who is now Director of Communications and Public Relations for Erie Shores Healthcare.

“You absolutely need to be on social media today no matter how you manage it,” he stresses.

Red Piston, meanwhile, provides a full array of services, seeking to engage clients and customers on social media.

“We start by determining where they need to be and then we set up an editorial planning calendar on a three month basis, while at the same time keeping in mind there are seasonal posts they need to consider,” notes Kale.

Once that’s done, Red Piston’s creative side kicks in and clients are encouraged to post fresh content consistently while staying true to their brand.

“It’s not so much about frequency as it is about consistency,” says Kale.

Pitfalls And How To Avoid Them

Largely anonymous social media platforms can make it much easier for people to spread negative comments about experiences they’ve had with a business and it’s important for the company to respond — but professionally.

Windsor Chef Steve Meehan (Facebook. com/steve.meehan.37) now runs a consulting company that provides chef training and cooking demonstrations. He feels it’s always a bad idea to ignore negative feedback (perhaps about food served or customer service, for example).

“I advise clients to resist being defensive because that can make it worse,” he says.

“You should try and engage with the person making the negative comments and try to reach a common ground about what happened and how they feel.”

Reaching out to the unhappy customer is a good way to deal with the bad review.

“Most people just want their issues to be acknowledged and if you do that, they will come away with a greater understanding of what happened,” believes Meehan.

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Kale advises Red Piston clients to take a measured approach to posted complaints.

“It’s fine to get out ahead of these issues, but there’s nothing wrong with having a sober second thought and sleeping on it before you respond,” he says.

Bumanlag is another who believes in tackling complaints and negative posts head on.

“If you respond in a timely, transparent and authentic manner, your followers will be able to see whether or not the complainant is being unreasonable,” he says. “Even if you have to bend over backwards and perhaps take a loss, people will notice and respect the fact you have responded to the complaint.”

He adds, “In those situations, there’s always an opportunity to put it right and move on.”

For Yvonne Pilon, President and Chief Executive Officer of WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com), knowledge and information are extremely important.

“If there are people who have had a negative experience with your business, you should want to know about it so it can be corrected,” says Pilon.

She continues by explaining, “You have to stay away from being negative in response so you can turn this negative into a positive.

It can be frustrating to read comments you feel are unfair or inaccurate, but your job

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In this photo taken for a social media post, Yvonne Pilon and Derek Grayson enjoy a cup of coffee while sporting Southwest Shores’ Windsor Essex sweatshirts, at Happier Camper’s first Canadian showroom and espresso bar. The business is located along the waterfront in historic downtown Amherstburg, at 274 Dalhousie Street and is just one local example of a small business doing it right on social media.

Photo courtesy of WEtech Alliance.

then is to deal with them professionally so the person posting the comments remains a customer and a supporter of your business.”

WEtech’s role is to build a regional technological community that encourages entrepreneurship, innovation and collaboration through partnerships with small, medium and large businesses, including start-ups and established companies. It also provides advice and help for businesses seeking to access the most

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effective social media platforms for their particular business.

WEtech is also promoting the use of #YQG, which connects users with all that is local no matter which platform the user is accessing.

Getting back to negative comments about your business, Spencler says it’s virtually impossible to avoid them and the key approach is to deal with them transparently so you can rectify the situation.

“It can get a little tricky, but it’s going to happen and how you deal with it can make a huge difference,” adds Spencler.

Briscoe says the faster you can respond to a complaint, the better.

“It’s been shown that people on Twitter expect a response to a posted complaint within one hour,” reports Briscoe. “So you can go from a company with a great reputation to one with a lesser reputation very, very quickly.”

As a side note, many business owners believe it is always best to keep your reply short and sweet and off social media whenever possible (a phone call to the unhappy customer may help). Arguing back and forth on social media is a bad practice as thousands may see the comments and can also chip in their two cents. Nip it in the bud before it gets out of hand, as fast as possible!

Business Or Pleasure

Anytime people are given a voice, there’s a temptation to mix business with personal issues but, Ballard for one, suggests business owners keep the two separate.

“It depends upon your particular business and it can make sense to cross-over for some sectors, but generally, it’s a very good idea to keep them separate,” Ballard advises.

She adds that customers looking for menus, special event schedules and general business information are not expecting to find political postings. However, Ballard does encourage business owners to post photos of actual customers when they can, rather than stock shots lifted off the Internet.

“People love real people and it’s a good tip or trick to use them when you can,” indicates Ballard. “It personalizes your business and makes it more accessible and local.”

Social Media Policies Are Important

Kale says that establishing a social media policy, regardless of the size of your company, is “absolutely smart and proactive before any issues arise.”

“You need to establish who can and who can’t speak for the company,” he explains. “You need to make sure that whoever responds to your clients on social media has the authority to do so.”

Looking to connect with more local content and/or businesses? A simple search of #YQG will connect you with all things local, no matter which platform you’re on. According to Yvonne Pilon of WEtech Alliance, this hashtag is helpful to businesses when recruiting new customers and for keeping up to date on what is happening in the community. Her organization’s “Social Media Superheroes” peer-to-peer group adopted #YQG back in March 2015 as its official regional hashtag.

As for his company’s own social media practices, Kale states: “We encourage our employees to post in order to showcase both our company’s creativity and their own personality, but you have to set boundaries so that everyone is on message.”

Over at Motor City Community Credit Union (MCCCU.com), management has established a social media policy that covers both workplace and private postings.

“We have to make sure we protect our company’s integrity and brand; so we have a strict policy that forbids people from

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posting negative comments about any of our clients, members or partners,” explains Daniel Iannetta, MCCCU’s Risk and Compliance Officer.

MCCCU has a three-person social media department, which coordinates branch and professional postings, while at the same time monitoring personal off-hours postings.

“We have stressed to our staff that any negative or inappropriate posts can reflect negatively on Motor City and we have not had any issues,” Iannetta comments.

MCCCU mostly uses Facebook or Twitter because, as Iannetta explains, its members largely fall into an older demographic.

“It has changed how we reach out to our members and it has been very effective,” he adds. “If we receive complaints we try to act quickly and appropriately.”

Iannetta wraps up this section with something everyone needs to remember when it comes to social media: “There are still people who believe everything they read on the Internet is gospel, but that clearly isn’t the case.”

Easy Access For Small Business

According to George Stratis, Owner of On a Roll Sushi and Sliders (63 Pitt Street East, Windsor; On-a-Roll-Sushi.com), reaching out to customers on

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Charmaine Gillis, who uses social media platforms to promote her independently-owned business, poses in her Ocean Bottom Soap Company store, surrounded by their products. Photo courtesy of John Liviero from Sooters Photography Studio (Sooters.net).

social media makes his job so much easier.

“It’s amazing to be able to target a specific audience and demographic without resorting to a blanket marketing approach,” he says.

“My sister Sarah handles our social media presence and it’s been very successful.”

Stratis points out that his sister creates posters for musicians who provide entertainment at his restaurant and it makes a huge difference in how people react to his entertainment line-up.

“We only have to reach 10 people (on social media) and if the musicians reach 10 and if our staff reaches another 10, we’re almost at capacity,” he says. “We don’t need 300 people, we need 40 and social media makes that achievable almost every time.

Besides, it’s easy and it’s free.”

Whereas it’s up to every business owner where he/she chooses to use advertising dollars (note posts on a business social media page are not charged, but paid advertising can also be bought) the power of print should never be underestimated.

Studies show that people tend to trust print ads over digital ads and most importantly, they remember what was advertised more in a magazine ad (OutreachMediaGroup.com/ print-advertising).

Print ads also last longer than social media ads as publications have a long shelf life and tend to be in professional offices and waiting areas for thousands to pick up and read over and over. (SmallBusiness.Chron.com/ Importance-Printing-Advertising-33928.html) As well, not everybody is on social media, and when it comes to making sales you want to reach as many people as possible whenever you can.

Of course every little bit helps, so using your social media pages to reach customers is obviously a good idea and a necessity.

Another good example is Charmaine Gillis, who owns and operates Ocean Bottom Soap Company (1614 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh; OceanBottomSoap.com).

She has one staff member dedicated

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to handling the company’s social media marketing and advertising.

“We use mostly Facebook and Instagram because they reflect the demographics of our customers and clients,” explains Gillis.

“We’re able to post information about our products and the pop-up events we run with partners, such as Anchor Coffee House, Thunder Road-Harley Davidson and Sprucewood Winery.”

Gillis says custom orders from clients who want their names placed on the packaging for Ocean Bottom products, are largely as a result of information placed on social media platforms, as well as the company’s website.

“Our website has a lot of traffic and when we launch new products, it comes into play along with our social media platforms,” she indicates.

© Can Stock Photo/Bloomua

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS

“Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes, Turn And Face The Strange”

There you have it, the good, the bad and everything in between. Social media appears to be changing the way some businesses interact and connect with their clients.

Whereas posting and communicating daily on social media is common for many business owners, it may still be a “strange” (as David Bowie sang) way to do business for others.

Yet these days it seems that a presence on social media is needed by all companies in order to connect with past, present and future customers.

Using these various platforms allow business owners (large or small) to seek out their particular demographic and deliver messages and information in a timely and highly efficient way.

Even though there are a variety of social media platforms to get out your company’s message, either for free or for a small fee, using traditional forms of advertising and marketing such as print and broadcast media can still be effective.

Combining traditional media advertising with new social media and digital options can give your marketing campaign an even greater chance for success.

And that’s always good business!

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TECH BY TES

Taylor-Made Social Media Tips

By Taylor Lanoie

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our 2020 resolution was to put more effort into your business’ social media presence.

But, now it’s March and you’ve either given up or haven’t noticed any improvement from last year.

It’s not because your audience isn’t online. And it’s not because no one cares about your product.

What you’ve figured out by now is that connecting with your audience isn’t as easy as just posting a photo.

Here are the top five things to do on social media to make sure you’re spending your valuable time on things that work!

#1 Focus on relatable content.

Relatable content, in its purest form, shouldn’t feel intrusive.

If we look at a standard sales post — on its own, it can’t connect.

But, if we shift our angle to focus on humour, how it saves time, tastes better, solves a problem, etc., you’ve just placed your business into the lives of your audience in a thoughtful way. Now that’s some relatable and memorable content!

Remember “if you’re talking to everyone, you’re talking to no one” so be purposeful with your content.

#2 Look at your followers as fans and not customers.

When you wake up in the morning, do you ask yourself, “I wonder what (insert brand name) is up to today?”

Probably not. That means your content needs to be so engaging that people can’t help but comment, like and share what you’ve posted.

If no one interacts with your post, it can’t leave your timeline, and because no one is explicitly typing your name into their search bar, you’ve instantly become invisible online.

The rule is; if it doesn’t leave your timeline, no one is going to see it. Think, “Is this shareable?” every time that you craft a post.

#3 Harness the power of community.

Social Media is all about “Brand Fans”!

These are the people who are always the first to like, comment and share — they are your cheerleaders!

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Harness the voice of the people who already believe in what you do, to amplify your message.

Try things like creating an exclusive group to try new products, include them in your brand photo shoots, and you can share their content on your page.

#4 Create an experience on social media that extends to the real world.

What experience do you create in the real world that complements your digital strategy?

If someone subscribed to your subscription service online — did you mail them a thank you? Did you tell them to upload a picture of their subscription box and hashtag to be featured or to win a free month?

How do we take the digital experience of your brand and bring it to life? What you do is more than a product or a service — it’s a “lifestyle.”

Remember there are real people on the other side of that screen! Think about human behaviour and apply it to your brand.

#5 Use the power of the stories.

Ignore the “recommended number of daily posts” and forget about the “best times of the day.”

It’s less critical for you to post every day than it is for you to post quality content and engage with your audience — stories are a huge part of that!

While everyone expects your Instagram feed to be cohesive and styled, you can be way more lenient with the aesthetics of stories.

Sharing the behind the scenes of your business will help people to connect with you authentically and stay top of mind along the top of the app.

Try “Unfold” (a free app) to help you look like a pro in your next Insta story.

Taylor Lanoie is a Content Strategist with a focus on experiential marketing, helping business owners humanize their brands to better connect with their audience online. Today she works and consults with clients in Canada, the U.S. and Europe (see: TaylorLanoie.com).

“Tech Bytes” is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com).

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

Ten Friends Diner 1412 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor Story And Photos By David Clark

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pproaching the restaurant near the Olde Walkerville area, the Ten Friends Diner (TenFriendsDiner.org) greets you with two smiling faces on the facade, a welcome to a happy place.

According to Carolyn Burton, Manager, “Founded in 1993 in a previous location, Ten Friends Diner (TFD) has always been a nonprofit organization and a community-based project that offers aid to people who suffer with mental health setbacks by helping them through specialized employment training programs at the restaurant.”

Carolyn is involved in all aspects of operating the diner, including financial, programming and even, cooking. In fact, she does such a great job that customers nominated her for a Biz X Award in the “2019 Powerhouse Professional” category. Additionally, her husband Michael Burton is a manager who assists with cooking and waiting on tables.

So what makes this restaurant unique from others? All of the staff have mental health setbacks and TFD provides a healthy environment that encourages intermingling with the public, while promoting teamwork at the diner. Learning a skill is also helpful as is the supportive employment opportunity.

Upbeat and colourful, the diner can accommodate 95. You will immediately notice the superior customer service — they always aim to please at TFD. In total there are 30 “peers” as they say, at the diner.

“The peers can receive counselling and help with difficulties in a real world environment,” says Katherine White, Peer Leader. “Also, our training program here helps to support clients who have suffered previously with mental health difficulties or do now.”

The awesome food at TFD keeps the customers coming back for more with a loaded

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menu featuring breakfast and lunch selections.

At breakfast time (or even later) diners have several choices.

The Breakfast Special reigns supreme and comes with two eggs; two pancakes; ham, bacon or sausage; and toast. The Sunrise Double comes with all that’s in the Breakfast Special without the pancakes, but with home fries.

You can also choose an omelette from the “Omelette Factory” with an exciting list of toppings to pick from.

For heartier fare, look at the lunch favourite Clubhouse sandwich with an option of doing it in a wrap. An appetite buster!

The classic Hamburger has à la carte choices with a six ounce patty and all the toppings. How about another popular lunch special, the Crispy Chicken Wrap with four sauces to choose from?

Ashley George (Cook) displays the popular Breakfast Special, a menu item that satisfies hungry customers with its large portions and great price.

Under the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit “Meet Smart” program (WECHU.org/ meetsmart), TFD’s menu items promote healthier choices such as two eggs with toast and fruit, the two-egg Veggie Omelette and a Whole Wheat Turkey and Veggie Wrap with a side salad and seasonal fruit. Other healthy choices include Oatmeal and Grilled Chicken Garden Salad. TFD also has a kids menu.

TFD has their own large community garden located off McDougall that not only supplies the

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The highly stacked Clubhouse Sandwich with fries and coleslaw entices Peer Leader Katherine White to dig in!

restaurant with herbs and vegetables, but also donates produce to charitable organizations like Street Help.

The diner will use almost all locally sourced food products as well — supporting local businesses when they can.

A highly acclaimed and active catering business, TFD provides veggie and fruit platters, wraps and cookies and more.

The diner can serve up to 200 and offers customizable menus.

New and onsite is Café 10, serving you after hours till 8:30 p.m. A good place to mingle and chat with friends and family and a safe environment for people with an illness.

Regarding the peers, it is a slow and steady process to end the stigma in and around the community, but TFD is working towards it.

“At Ten Friends Diner we foster self-esteem, self-confidence and they encourage us to come out of our comfort zone — a true recipe for success!” explains waitress Melissa Rei. For more information about this special eatery, including hours and the latest news, check: Facebook.com/TenFriendsDiner.

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PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN Story And Photo By Ujjwal Sharma

JORDYNNE ROPAT

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Baking Up Joy With Plant Based Doughnuts

ocal business owner Jordynne Ropat’s goal is to “Plant Joy” in the hearts of her customers, one bite at a time, through her delicious vegan (no dairy or egg) doughnuts.

Plant Joy, located at 5622 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor, was created in March 2018 when Ropat had the idea to provide plant based comfort food. A month later, she made her first doughnut.

“I began bringing doughnuts to markets and local pop-up events and realized this was something Windsor was missing,” she explains.

“I spent a year attending pop-ups and selling my doughnuts wholesale, and in May of 2019, I opened our storefront in Olde Riverside.”

Plant Joy makes gourmet vegan doughnuts with high-quality fair-trade and organic ingredients. More than a dozen innovative and delicious flavours are offered.

“Cinnamon sugar, of course, is a classic, and cookies ‘n’ creme is one of our everyday best sellers,” Ropat states. “And we make our vanilla frosting and chocolate cookies from scratch — nothing from a box!”

“Plant Joy” has a number of meanings. One is pretty obvious — plant-based joy.

“Doughnuts can be a source of joy,” she believes. “They have a way of allowing us to feel like a kid again; they are a comforting, fun, delicious treat.”

And the business gives back to the community as well, frequently donating gift cards and doughnuts to local charities and fundraising events.

“We recently donated doughnut holes to a charity event for the Australian Red Cross which raised more than $5,000 and we were asked to provide 600 mini doughnuts to the ‘Do Good Divas’ most recent event,” Ropat

Jordynne Ropat holds up a colourful selection of freshly baked doughnuts at her Olde Riverside business, Plant Joy.

reports. “Additionally, any doughnuts at the end of the day are donated to community organizations, such as the Windsor Youth Centre, The Hospice and Windsor and Essex County, Street Help, The Downtown Mission of Windsor and The Welcome Centre for Women and Families.”

The great thing about the doughnuts at Plant Joy is that they are a treat many people can enjoy, even if they have dietary restrictions or allergies (to see a menu of choices visit: PlantJoy.ca).

“Our doughnuts are also a favourite for people who care about the ingredients that go into their food,” she adds. “We use more than 90 percent organic ingredients and prioritize fair-trade ingredients as well, which means the workers who farmed the ingredients — such as organic raw cane sugar — were paid a fair wage.”

She and her staff often serve young families — many of whom have children with dairy and egg allergies — and they serve many vegans and people that eat a solely or mostly plant-based diet.

It had always been Ropat’s goal to provide a high-quality plant-based dessert option that leaves people feeling satisfied.

“A common misconception about vegan food is that it has to be bland and tasteless,” she describes. “We are frequently told that our doughnuts are better than traditional doughnuts made with dairy and eggs, so vegans and non-vegans alike can enjoy a plant-based treat and don’t feel like they’re ‘missing out.’”

Ropat expresses that she loves being a woman in business.

“I think that female entrepreneurs are sometimes underestimated or taken less seriously, but fortunately that has not been my experience in Windsor’s small business community,” Ropat comments. “I believe in surrounding myself with people who also have big goals and love serving others, and I have been fortunate enough to receive advice and mentorship from many other women in business, local and otherwise.

I see my position as a woman in business as an opportunity to help other women achieve their goals and show little girls what is possible if they follow their heart.”

Ropat tries to deliberately carve out time that is solely her own in order to balance work and home life.

“Usually, for me that is working out, whether it is spin class, yoga, or boxing,” she lists. “As a business owner, you can always find more work to do — whether you should or not — and sometimes it is a challenge to turn off my ‘business brain’ and rest.

So I find that an hour-long workout class is really helpful for getting myself out of my head and taking time to focus on me.”

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Easter Seals Ontario (Windsor-Essex) is proudly supported by

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ACCOUNTING COUNTS

Selling The Family Business

By Alison Piccolo, CPA, CA

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unset Distribution Enterprises was founded in the 1970s by John (fictional scenario), who continues to act as President of the company, most often from his condo in Florida.

The company has grown significantly over the past 35 years, particularly through the late ‘90s. His son and daughter are both active in the business, as one of the sales managers and the general manager.

The Canadian industry has experienced increased U.S. competition as large public company competitors take a more aggressive approach to the market.

Neither Mike nor Meghan are really interested in increasing their managerial duties, in fact there is some concern that both are looking to make a lifestyle change.

John initially ignored his children’s plans however, and it is now time to make some decisions, and he is considering selling the company.

As business advisors this is the scenario we are faced with all too often.

After many years of hard work and most likely plenty of sacrifices, many family business owners look to reap the rewards of their efforts over the years.

Sometimes, exit strategies or exit planning, rather than succession planning, is needed as there isn’t a next generation of family members who are ready, willing or able to continue the family business.

Business owners need to consider the dynamics within the family company in relation to the roles of family, ownership and management, and how the three intersect.

These dynamics must be balanced against the family business goals, which should include: family harmony and long term financial prosperity, when considering a selling transaction.

As you contemplate this major life change and consider your options to exit the family business, you need to understand what drives value in business in today’s market and what potential buyers and investors are looking for.

Value will be impacted by controllable, typically internal, items and external market factors.

Controllable factors of consequence can

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generally be summarized as “getting your house in order” from a financial, operational, tax and legal perspective. Nowadays, both strategic and financial buyers have increased the level and complexity of due diligence they are completing in getting deals done.

Make sure you are ready.

External market dynamics will also have a significant effect on value and the ability to consummate a transaction. We would advise family business owners to continually assess their position in the market place, their plans, and their readiness for future activities, which may include an ownership transition.

Selling to the right person is equally important and plays a vital role in securing the legacy of your brand.

You’ve undoubtedly worked hard to establish the name and identity of the business, and have done everything in your power to create longevity for the company.

Selling to someone who’s passionate about your business and brand will make a difference, and should also leave you feeling better about the decision. Selling a family business is not a spur-of-the-moment decision, and requires significant planning and thought.

Taking your time to make key choices and to adequately prepare your exit strategy is critical to a successful sale.

In addition, understanding your role as owner of the family-run business and how you can add and subtract value, is an important part of the overall process.

For many, the sale of a private company is the culmination of a lifetime’s work. Often, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime transaction — with just one opportunity to get it right.

Fully preparing the business for your exit is not a small task — it’s a stressful and risky undertaking, with tax implications as well — and many family business owners benefit from professional advice.

Alison Piccolo is a Chartered Professional Accountant and works for KPMG in Windsor (KPMG.ca). Alison has 15 years of experience in public accounting and currently leads the local Owner Managed Enterprise practice.

She works directly as a trusted business advisor to privately held companies, assisting with audit, accounting and tax matters.

portfolio corner

Socially Responsible Investing

By Steven Mayo With the help of research from RBC Global Asset Management, let’s discuss this trend and the portfolio management process.

Socially Responsible Investing has been around for 30+ years, but has garnered more attention recently, become more defined, and is more strictly applied to investing.

This investment criteria is anchored on three main topics — Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).

E is for Environmental This is a review on a company’s impact on climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, and resource depletion, including water, waste, pollution, and deforestation.

S is for Social These factors include working conditions/ standards, impact on local communities, presence in conflict zones, health and safety, employee relations/diversity and pay equality.

G is for Governance The focus is on executive pay, potential for bribery/corruption, political lobbying and donations, Board diversity and structure, and tax strategy.

When analyzing any company prior to inclusion in a portfolio, investment managers will carry out a review of the target investments’ ESG scorecard. The scorecard compiles results from the screening process of each of the three factors and determines whether it can be purchased, or is excluded.

Ongoing monitoring of ESG compliance is an important part of the investment process. It is worth noting that companies with a positive ESG score tend to have share price outperformance.

Investors may be surprised to know that many of North America’s largest companies, including resource companies (Oil & Gas, Mining, and Forestry), score well in their ESG behaviour.

Corporations have taken notice as evidenced by the announcement in August 2019 that “181 chief executives from the U.S. Business Roundtable signed a statement saying they would lead their companies for the benefit of all stakeholders — customers, employees, suppliers, communities and share owners.”

Investment management has evolved dramatically since I started my career 35 years ago. The “Socially Responsible” trend is here to stay.

Let’s wrap up now with two quotes.

First, one from BlackRock CEO, Larry Fink: “Without a sense of purpose, no company, either public or private, can achieve its full potential. It will ultimately lose the licence to operate from key stakeholders. ” And next a quote from Bill Ford: “Creating a strong business and building a better world are not conflicting goals — they are both essential ingredients for long term success.”

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.

Indirect taxes add up Meet Yvonne Brown – newest member of our tax team in Windsor. Over 30 years’ experience advising business owners and organizations on domestic and cross-border indirect tax (GST, HST, RST, WSIB, EHT) matters.

Building and growing a business isn’t easy, it takes hard work and dedication. With KPMG beside you, face all that’s in front of you.

Connect with Yvonne or a trusted KPMG Tax professional at 519-251-3500. kpmg.ca

Let’s do this.

© 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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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Enjoying A Cup Of Joe While Talking Me Some Trash . . .

Story And Photo By Joe McParland

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n Saturday December 7, 2019 I had 45 minutes to kill before a doctor’s appointment, so I decided to treat myself to breakfast at Uptown Restaurant, 521 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. They are a two-time Biz X Award winner (2017 “Tip Top Server” and 2005 “Soup & Sandwich Shangri-la”) and I try to patronize our award winners and nominees, whenever possible.

It was 9:30 a.m. and the place was packed.

In fact, I was lucky to score the last available table, a large table to the right of the front door.

A few minutes after I had been seated, a young man — who looked to be in his early to mid-20s — appeared by himself at the entrance and was told by a server it might be up to a 15 minute wait for a table.

I called the server over and indicated that if the young man wanted to share my table, he was welcome to. The young man broke into a big smile and readily accepted my invitation.

No sooner had this stranger sat down, the two of us were engaged in some pretty serious “trash talk”. Keep on reading and you’ll see what I mean.

Eric Morin, entrepreneurial owner of JunkGone Services, began his business in November 2019. Originally from Belle River, he spent much of his young life on his grandparents’ farm in Essex, which his mother eventually took over when he was 14 years old.

After graduating from St. Anne’s High School in Tecumseh, Morin successfully completed a welding course at St. Clair College. For a while he worked for local temp agencies and plied his trade at area welding shops. It wasn’t long before this farm boy

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realized that welding was paying the bills, but he wanted to accomplish much more in life than that.

A few summers ago, his mother travelled east to New Brunswick on vacation and left Morin her truck to use. In her absence he went online and advertised, “Man with truck and trailer available to do any side jobs”.

One of his first job offers came from the old Bank Night Club at Ouellette and University, downtown Windsor. It was being gutted and he agreed to do the work and told the owner to “pay him whatever they thought was reasonable”.

They ended up paying Morin $300 and his eyes widened in amazement. He’d found his new calling!

“I had no idea there was that kind of money in junk removal,” he expresses.

Most of his work to date has been within the Windsor city limits. He explains, “In the county, the various lower tier municipalities will pick up trash like mattresses at curbside for free, whereas in Windsor, that doesn’t happen.”

Residential services make up the majority of his jobs, although he gets the occasional commercial request. Many times, owners of rental units will discover that their last tenants left behind quite a mess to deal with. Morin shows up on the scene and does the heavy lifting of the trash to his trailer and then transports it to the Windsor Disposal Services Ltd. landfill.

He operates with one other employee, but has several others available at short notice for larger jobs and he is fully WSIB insured.

I asked him if some of the items being trashed are salvageable. He indicated that he’s retrieved an X Box One — brand new. It was part of what

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JunkGone Services owned and operated by Eric Morin, may be a new business, but he and his trailer are in it for the long haul!

someone left behind in an apartment after they were evicted. He has a tote box at home with close to a thousand dollars worth of LEGO. Morin reveals some of the places he’s hired to dismantle — and then transfer the trash to the landfill — are disgusting. He recalls one residence littered with deceased cat corpses and well used cat litter in all the closets.

I asked him what the strangest thing he’s been asked to remove, and he quickly offers, “a doctor’s brief case filled with some of the weirdest ‘adult toys’ I have ever seen.”

(I resisted the temptation of asking the client’s name, and I’m sure professional ethics would have prevented him from disclosing the identity).

According to Morin, business has been extremely good and he is now expanding his services to include the Chatham Kent area.

He also hopes to branch out further into Sarnia and London. Eventually, he’d like to be able to franchise his business in southwestern Ontario and possibly start up a demolition business.

With spring cleaning just around the corner, visit his website at: JunkGoneServices.com for information on rates, to see a list of items on what they can haul away and to book his services online.

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ask the experts

Selling Your Home? It’s Time To Come Clean About Odours

By Colin Croteau Cannabis, tobacco, and urine odours can lower the value of your home — what is the solution?

Cannabis use has grown over the last five years, especially now that our federal government has fully legalized medicinal or recreational use of cannabis.

However, if you are looking to sell your home and there is a tobacco/cannabis odour in the environment, those odours could lower the value of your home by 25 to 29% as noted in Investopedia.com.

That is a tremendous drop in value!

As a matter of fact, the top three odours that a home should not have if you are looking to sell it are: pet odours; protein and other food odours (such as fish, curry, onions, and garlic), and tobacco/cannabis odours.

When sticky tobacco residues accumulate, the resulting pesky film on interior building surfaces, continually releases malodours.

Heavy smoking over a long period of time causes stubborn and severe smoke odours.

Our sense of smell can determine a lot of things for us. Some potential home buyers can walk through a home and walk right out within minutes and never return, while others will still look. Odours linger and make an impact on the brain and how we perceive that particular home.

And it’s no wonder — tobacco, marijuana, and residual urine, not only leave behind a malodour, but also leave behind contaminants that affect the air quality of the home.

For example, tobacco contains around 600 ingredients, and when these ingredients are burned, 7,000 chemicals are created. Out of these 7,000, at least 69 are known to cause cancer and many are toxic (Lung.org).

As for pet urine, the main components of it will affect indoor air quality by the release of gases such as ammonia and bioaerosols.

“Bioaerosols include a wide variety of inflammatory and physiologically active components, including endotoxin, fungal

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cell wall fragments, and dust particles that can reach lower airways” (Animal Hoarding and Public Health — Hoarding of Animals Research Consortium).

Ammonia is also considered “immediately dangerous to life and health at 300 p.p.m.” according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health in the U.S.A. So, can you really expect the home to retain its full value when the lingering residues are both unpleasant to the nose, and could be toxic to your health?

Of course, we can’t please everyone all of the time, but if you can avoid these odours, that will certainly help. The most important smell you can leave buyers with is the smell of “clean.”

Keep your home sparkling clean, free of dirt and dust and you will be rewarded with an increase in the value of your home.

Colin Croteau is owner of Croteau Cleaning Services (CroteauCleaning.ca).

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THE PARENTING BIZ

A Quick Lesson In Social Media For Families C

oinciding with our cover story on social media for businesses, we now turn our attention to kids and online safety.

Research shows that many children as young as six have access to smartphones or tablets. So, be prepared to talk with your child before they are on social media or near three key moments in their life (see below).

What follows are three separate articles that offer helpful tips on getting the conversation started between you and your children about technology in their young life, creating a family agreement and understanding how your teen uses Instagram.

Three Teachable Moments Every Parent Should Seize

By Stephen Balkam* We talk a lot about talking with your kids about being safe online.

It is, after all, part of good digital parenting.

Talk early and often about safety, privacy, being secure and behaving responsibly online. It’s not like the birds and the bees talk — one time and done. Ideally, it’s an ongoing conversation from two to 18 about an ever-widening array of issues, concerns, opportunities and rewards.

Of course, parents are busy and sometimes we miss opportunities to talk with our kids about a whole host of things. Or we just don’t have enough information or feel awkward about bringing up topics that our tech-savvy kids will simply roll their eyes over.

But, if there were just three key moments in your child’s life that you absolutely should not miss, they would be the following.

1. Your Child’s First Phone Kids are getting their first phone at younger ages than ever before. What used

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is reasonable and what kinds of content or behaviour he/she feels is inappropriate. Try and find the right balance between laying down the law and empowering and trusting your child to use his/her phone the right way.

In the digital world we live in you are guaranteed to see kids on their phones everywhere you go, checking out the latest posts, tweets and more. When a child becomes a teenager he/she can legally set up a social media account. As soon as they are old enough to join Facebook and other social media, it’s a good time for a parental chat about safe sharing, privacy and security.

to be a rite of passage for freshmen in high school, cell phones are being given to middle schoolers (grades 6 to 8) and even elementary school-aged kids, in huge numbers.

According to one recent survey, a majority of 10 and 11 year olds had phones, and in the UK, a staggering one out of 10, five year olds were given their first phones. In affluent families, there is also a tendency to hand down devices to the kids as mom or dad upgrade to the latest iPhone or Samsung.

Needless to say, giving your child a phone, particularly a smart phone, is a big privilege and one that comes with a number of responsibilities.

To help your kid become a smart user, make sure to sit down with him or her and set the ground rules, be clear what sanctions there may be and set sensible time limits.

The most common limits include no phone during meals, homework or late at night.

You can always download a ready-made contract to make the conversation go easier.

It’s also a good idea to engage your child in the rule setting by asking what she/he thinks

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2. Turning 13 Becoming a teenager is, of course, a big milestone in any adolescent’s life, but the ubiquity of social media sites has made this age particularly significant. Facebook, Twitter and most other leading platforms insist on users being 13 and even provide specific safety controls for these younger users. Before you launch your child onto the world of Instagram, Snapchat and Tumblr (and apps you’ve never heard of!), it would be wise to sit him/her down and talk about what they might encounter, what is appropriate behaviour and how to report a problem when things go wrong.

You may need to do some homework before you have this chat. There are plenty of videos and tip sheets on all the major social media sites and, if in doubt, just search whatever questions you may have. There’s probably a YouTube video on the very issue you have.

3. Getting A Driver’s Licence Another key moment to sit down and talk with your teen is the day before they apply for their first driver’s licence.

The topic of discussion is, naturally, the dangers of texting while driving. This talk might also expand into a broader chat about how technology in general, and hand held devices in particular, can lead to distraction and other attention problems — not just in a car, but also in school, in social situations and life in general. Talk about what it’s like to just switch off and to being present in the world. It goes without saying that your teen will pay much more attention to what you do than what you say. If you are constantly

THE PARENTING BIZ

Social Media Ground Rules For Families

By MediaSmarts, Canada’s centre for digital and media literacy

Understanding the connected world of kids and teens can be challenging for parents because adults don’t communicate online in the same way and are not necessarily using the same social media. Even more challenging is the reality that there’s always something new coming around the corner.

Having a family agreement or set of ground rules for using social networks is a good start. It’s a great way for parents and kids to work together on how to be safe, wise and responsible online.

Here are some ideas . . .

• I will only follow people I know personally.

• I will always show an adult any message or post that makes me feel uncomfortable or threatened.

• I will never share any personal information about myself, such as my age, where I live, and where I go to school.

• I will keep my whereabouts to myself: I will turn off any location settings that tell people exactly where I am or where a photograph was taken.

• I will never publish anything I wouldn’t want my parents, teachers, and grandparents to see, because photos can be shared widely, with anyone, in a matter of seconds.

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© Can Stock Photo /4774344sean

on the phone, text at stop lights, bring your phone to bed and are not present for your own kids, then they will follow your lead.

Be a good digital role model to your kids.

Not only do actions speak louder than words, but your kids will appreciate the time and attention you give them without you being distracted by your own devices.

So keep the conversation going and make sure to listen to your kids as well. It can be a humbling experience to have a nine year old explain the intricacies of “Minecraft” or having to ask your teenager’s help in uploading a video to the web.

By keeping the lines of communication open, you will gain in confidence in your role as a parent while you navigate the increasingly challenging, but remarkably rewarding, digital world we all live in. *This article was reprinted with permission from Facebook. For the past 30 years, Stephen Balkam has had a wide range of leadership roles in the non-profit sector in the both the U.S. and UK. He is currently the Founder and CEO of the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI), an international, non-profit organization headquartered in Washington, DC. FOSI’s mission is to make the online world safer for kids and their families. Read more from the Family Online Safety Institute: Fosi.org/good-digital-parenting.

• When creating a password, I will make one up that is hard for someone else to guess, but easy for me to remember. I will never reveal it to anyone (except my parents or a trusted adult) — not even my best friend.

• I will always check my privacy settings and go over them with my parents.

• I will practice the golden rule and always treat others as I would like to be treated.

• I will T.H.I.N.K. before I leave a comment or send a message: is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind?

• I will not upload or tag photos of other people without their permission.

For more parent resources on technology, social media use and screen time visit: MediaSmarts.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ

How To Talk To Teens About Instagram Summarized By Dave Hall From Facebook Information Social media platforms such as Instagram provide users with opportunities to post videos, photos, and even personal information, but along with those opportunities come responsibilities.

Parents and their teenagers need to form a trusting relationship so those opportunities and the pitfalls which may accompany them can be managed.

It’s hard to know how to have an open conversation with your teens and keep them safe from unwanted posts and attention while we are all learning to navigate the social media landscape ourselves, but it’s important that we do so.

It’s essential that Instagram provides a safe, supportive place for people to express themselves. And there are ways to ensure that happens.

One of the first conversations parents should have with their teenagers is whether or not their Instagram account is public, which allows universal access to anything they post, or private, which means they can control, block or approve anyone viewing their postings.

Users can switch between public and

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private at any time and users of a private account can remove followers at any time they wish. Users that your teen chooses to block will not be notified of their change in status.

You should explain to your teens they can block accounts they don’t want to interact with at any time. Comments will no longer appear from a blocked account, which gives teens control of their own accounts and the people who view their postings.

Teens are urged to report any bullying or harassment that may result from any of their posts. Instagram is a judgmentfree, harassment-free platform and all reports of inappropriate activity will be kept anonymous.

Parents should ask their teens to establish filters so they can block unwanted texts, subjects or emojis, which they deem inappropriate.

Your children can create their own list of phrases, emojis, bullying or harassing comments so they can be filtered out of any interactions they have with people using Instagram.

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Once you and your teen have agreed on some ground rules governing content and privacy, it’s time to talk about how much time spent on Instagram is appropriate.

You should work together to achieve the right balance for your family.

Instagram’s “Activity Dashboard” allows teens to see exactly how much time they have spent on the platform on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.

They can also set a reminder to let them know when they are approaching their daily limit.

Teens naturally want to keep up with all of their friends’ activities and postings and Instagram allows them to do that by letting them know when they are “All Caught Up.” Once you and your teen have established some guidelines and rules for using Instagram, they will have an opportunity to interact with their friends, keep up with their activities, view videos and share memories and stories in a safe, supportive atmosphere where harassing comments and bullying have no place.

Instagram can be a wonderful way for teens to interact with their peers, once ground rules have been established.

For more information please refer to the website: Parents.Instagram.com.

MARCH BREAK DIRECTORY

THE PARENTING BIZ

March 16 to 20, 2020

t’s going to happen, you just know it.

Soon school will be out for five long days and your child (and perhaps even his or her friends) will be looking at you asking, “What can we do for fun?”

If your family has made the decision to stay home this March Break, finding affordable and interesting things to do can seem like a challenge.

Not the case if you make Windsor Essex your entertainment destination!

Locally there are plenty of great choices for your child such as: making a film, exploring his/her artsy side with crafts, playing games, swimming, dancing, participating in scavenger hunts, learning a bit of history, visiting the library and more.

The following pages outline specific March Break events, programs and camps.

Some activities can be on their own or

© Can Stock Photo /pressmaster

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with friends and others can be an entire family outing. Keep in mind this is not a complete list of all there is to do this special week in the region, it’s just some suggestions for you to consider for your children.

A word of advice though, don’t plan too much. Kids also need a rest from the regular weekday routine, so schedule in

some down time during March Break.

Have a meal out together, take a nature walk, play a few board games, watch movies in bed, etc. And most importantly enjoy some quality family time!

Turn the page to see our highlighted March Break camps, events and activities in Windsor Essex.

SUMMER CAMPS AGE, KIDS LOVE. ANY ANY STAGE.

YMCA DAY CAMP

YMCA CAMP QUEEN ELIZABETH

On the sunny shores of YMCA Day Camps are the best Beausoleil Island, kids way to spend fun summer have overnight summer days. New adventures and experiences that last a new friendships have kids lifetime. 65 years strong at coming back day after day, YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth! week after week, and year after year.

YMCA CAMP HENRY Located in Point Pelee National Park, YMCA Camp Henry offers four and five night camping experiences, perfect for those trying overnight camp for the first time.

REGISTER NOW!

Online: ymcawo.ca Or in Branch: Windsor YMCA at Central Park Athletics 3402 Grand Marais Road East Windsor, ON N8W 1W7 Phone: 519.419.1267

our Check outreak March B !

Camp

.ca ymcawo B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 0

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SCHOOL BREAK IS MARCH 16 TO 20, 2020

Be sure to call the phone numbers listed and/or check the website of each business or organization profiled here to get the particulars on how your children can attend a specific camp or activity. *Unless noted the area code to use is 519.

A Place To Grow Childcare At the St. Angela location, 816 Ellis Street East in Windsor, there will be different fun activities each day! From Science and Discovery, “Minute to Win It” games, Treasure Hunting and a Dress Up Dance Party to Backwards Day Freeze Dance and other games, your child is guaranteed to have a great time. For further info, visit: APlaceToGrowChildcare.net or call 252-8707.

Cathy’s Dance Studio The Windsor Studio (2220 B Foster Avenue, enter off Walker Road) offers a recreational dance camp for all ages. Children can participate in all styles of dance and a daily craft. Full day: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or half day: 9 a.m. to noon. Dancers will perform at the end of the week. All dancers must bring their own, peanut free lunch. To learn more refer to: CathysDanceStudio.net or call 969-7956.

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THE PARENTING BIZ Essex County Library #Staycation — spend your March Break holiday with the Essex County Library!

They have a fantastic lineup of activities and programs planned such as Stuffie sleepovers, Elephant and Piggie parties, game days, and more! From Leamington to LaSalle, Stoney Point to Amherstburg — knowledgeable and friendly staff are at each location to assist you. For all their March Break happenings, check out: EssexCountyLibrary.ca.

Film Camp for Kids & Youth Sign up today to make a movie this March Break! Coaching in filmmaking, photography, visual art, set design, animation, stop motion and more for those aged 9 to 16. Please register at: FilmCampForKids.com. To learn more email: info@filmcampforkids.com.

Montessori Academy of Windsor Come visit their safe, nurturing and inspiring environment located at 1775 Sprucewood Avenue in LaSalle, for fun activities each day during the March Break that are sure to make your child giggle! Early drop off and late pick-up is available. To learn more log on to: MontessoriAcademy.ca or call 967-9977.

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Museum Windsor Visit the Chimczuk Museum, located at 401 Riverside Drive West in Windsor and explore the new exhibit: “Bustles & Bows: Women’s Fashion from the Victorian Era to the 1920s”. New self-guided crafts and scavenger hunts daily with chances to win great prizes are also offered. General Admission $5.50 per person. For further information view: MuseumWindsor.ca.

The Fort Fun Centre Head over to 689 Texas Road in Amherstburg for bowling, arcade games, a round of laser tag and delicious food to devour at the on-site restaurant and pizzeria with daily specials for everyone to enjoy. Separate fees for each apply. Open daily at 11 a.m. Visit: TheFortFunCentre.com for full details or phone 736-4382 YMCA at Central Park Athletics The YMCA March Break and summer camps are five days of fun-filled activities designed with an emphasis on daily outdoor and active programming. Swimming, sports, games, art and lots of laughs make the Y the best place for campers to spend their week.

Register today! Go to: YWindsor.ca; stop by 3402 Grand Marais Road East in Windsor or phone 419-1267 if you have any questions.

THE PARENTING BIZ BIZ BITS

Running A Business While Raising Kids?

Photo credit: NewsCanada.com

It’s Possible!

(NC) Raising a family and running a small business at the same time can be challenging, but a recent survey shows that many Canadians feel it’s possible.

In fact, 71% of parents with children under 18 say they’re confident they could do both and 20% already do.

It’s becoming less of a black-and-white choice between pursuing an entrepreneurial career or raising a family.

“A growing number of younger parents feel that starting and running a business with kids in the home is indeed possible, and parenthood can even be the driver in some circumstances,” explains Lori Darlington, Vice President of Small Business, Strategy and Partnerships for Business Financial Services at RBC. “While business ownership is hard work, it can also offer control over one’s schedule and career, which is valuable at all stages of life, but particularly during the demanding parenting years.”

In fact, most younger owners say the ability to work while staying home with kids at the same time and creating something they could pass on as a legacy to their children, were draws for starting a business.

Regardless of which life stage you’re starting your entrepreneurship journey at, there’s no shortage of digital solutions and advice to make it easier for you to manage and grow your business with greater flexibility, anywhere, anytime.

Find more tools, resources and solutions at: RBCRoyalBank.com/business.

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THE PARENTING BIZ Let s talk about . . .

A New Foster Parent And Adoption Recruitment Campaign

T

he curtain has been lifted on a new recruitment campaign that seeks to gain 50 more foster homes for the Windsor Essex area.

The “refreshed look,” featuring a house as a centrepiece, calls out to individuals in the region who may wish to open their homes and hearts to children and youth who need a safe place to grow and thrive. Currently, the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS) has 132 foster homes and 34 kinship care homes (where children reside with extended family or members of their community).

There are approximately 440 children currently in the care of the Society, and there are not enough foster/care homes to cope. As a result, the agency contracts with outside providers to fill the gap.

“Throughout Ontario, the circumstances related to 89% of families involved with CAS are often due to a parent’s inability to meet their child’s physical and emotional needs,” explains WECAS Executive Director Derrick Drouillard. “These parents often struggle with substance abuse, mental health, social isolation, trauma and extreme financial stress. As these underlying issues are addressed, 85% of children and youth return to their families within 36 months. In the interim, every child deserves an enriching environment.”

There is no standard model for being a foster parent. People of all ages, cultural backgrounds, gender identities, orientations, relationship status and family types are welcome to apply.

Extensive training and support is provided.

Let’s read now about two local success stories, proving everyone can make a difference! (Last names withheld for privacy).

Cindy and Sal adopted twin girls from WECAS about 17 years ago. When their daughters turned 13, they applied to foster. They have been fostering now for nearly five years and are loving it!

Their daughters have been very involved in the process.

Currently caring for a toddler, they had to advise the girls the little one would be moving on to an adoptive family.

As a family, they decided that instead of transitioning the toddler to a new family, they would adopt this child who had become so much a part of their family. They are now in the beginning stages of adoption.

Anne, a single Mennonite foster parent, began fostering in 2011. She shares that the best part of being a foster parent is seeing a child grow and develop in her care.

She also enjoys being part of a child’s reunification with his or her birth family. During times when this is not possible, Anne

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During a press conference on February 11, 2020, at the WECAS office, located at 1671 Riverside Drive East, attendees had the opportunity to meet special people, such as foster parents Sal, Cindy and Anne who truly make a difference in the life of a child.

Photo courtesy of Paul Medved/WECAS.

enjoys seeing children achieve permanency through adoption.

This is how she has grown her family.

In Anne’s case, she first adopted a sibling group of four after reunification with the birth family was not possible. These siblings had bonded with her and each other, so it made sense to her to put forth a plan to adopt them to avoid disruption due to a move to another home.

These children — in addition to a sibling group of three others later placed with Anne — have all achieved permanency after she adopted them.

During this time, the second group of siblings were placed with Anne, an infant from a separate family was not able to return to the care of his birth family and was also placed with her.

Today, Anne has adopted eight children.

Is fostering for you? Can you envision yourself being one of the 50 new homes?

“Children need families and we need YOU (new tag line)!”

Drouillard expresses. “Come see what it’s all about!”

To find out more about WECAS and get details on upcoming information sessions, visit their website: WECAS.on.ca.

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TAKE THE LEAD

Helping Young Girls Build Confidence And Leadership Skills Through Music Story And Photo By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

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first heard about Girls Rock camps when I was taking music management courses at the Detroit Institute for Music Education (DIME). I was asked to present leadership workshops at Girls Rock Detroit.

From the minute I walked in I fell in love with the program and the warm, safe comfortable “home” they had created for the girls. I knew right away I wanted to bring this program to Windsor.

Girls Rock Detroit (GirlsRockDetroit.org) is part of Girls Rock Camp Alliance, which supports camps across the world to develop leadership, social justice, community awareness, positive self-esteem and a sense of belonging, using music education and performance.

Through the arts and creative expressions, they strive to be inclusive and help girls care for and value one another. All are welcome, regardless of socio-economic background, religion, race, gender identity, sexuality or ethnicity.

Girls Rock camps address gender issues, hoping to increase female representation in music. Only 7.7 percent of inductees to Rock & Roll Hall of Fame are women, three out of 10 festival performers and less than five percent of females are involved in music production.

I met with Girls Rock Detroit organizers to find out about their program. Ashley Moseley, Director of Operations explains that “We empower girls through music and create a safe space for them to have their say.”

Brooke Harris is also a board member of the international organization, Girls Rock Camp Alliance.

According to Harris, the program is “a self-esteem camp disguised as a rock and roll camp.” Her best experience? “All of them, I cry at every Showcase (performance held at the end of each camp).”

A typical day at camp includes morning assemblies, workshops, instrument lessons, lunch, guest performances, band practices, and afternoon master classes. Workshops include vocal techniques, recording, managing equipment, self-confidence, leadership skills, and women’s rock history.

Campers choose to learn guitar, bass, drums, keyboard or DJ skills (no experience necessary). Instruments are provided free of charge and campers work together on an original song.

At the end, each band performs at a Girls Rock Showcase. So the girls actually experience playing in a professional setting, at a prominent music venue, in front of enthusiastic friends and family.

I talked to one camper whose favourite part of the camp was being a DJ and learning about technology software like Serato DJ Pro. I am sure it had a lot to do with the instructors, which included Detroit DJ Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale — the “Godmother of House Music”.

One parent passionately described how rock camp affected her child: “This is her favourite week all year; she has autism and gets to express herself creatively in a place where she feels supported, valued and accepted.”

This statement and program impacted me so much that I am partnering with Detroit, joining the Girls Rock Camp Alliance and bringing this program to Windsor. We hope to collaborate and have a Detroit/Windsor International Girls Rock Showcase in the future as well.

The Girls Rock Windsor, Board of Directors includes: myself,

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Model Lauren McCorquodale poses in a Girls Rock Windsor t-shirt during a photo shoot at the Canadian Transportation Museum in Kingsville. Shirts are now available for purchase at Storytellers Bookstore, 1473 Ottawa Street, Windsor.

(Founder Girls Rock Windsor and Director of Public Relations Mi5 Recordings Detroit); Danielle Moldovan (who runs the Marketing & Events division for Wolfhead Distillery and is Founder of Fun In The Box, a subscription based box for kids); Stacey Roberts Tobin (Founder of Women of Windsor and Law Instructor); Jessica Vennettilli (Owner of UrGalFriday and Design Consultant for Guaranteed “A” Fine ’Furniture); Natasha Feghali (Owner FGI Family Homes and Rentals and NUDE Cosmetics).

Advisors are Tom McDonough (President of Mi5 Recordings Detroit) and Marcie Camero (Editor of Music Player Magazine).

And Committee members include Lori Baldassi (Biz X magazine music columnist and Director of Artist Engagement at Bluesfest Windsor).

Watch for Girls Rock Windsor camps (non-profit) to start the summer of 2020 with two upcoming fundraisers featuring local recording artist Christian Vegh — one in April (details to be announced shortly) and the second in the summer at Wolfhead Distillery on August 2. Sponsors are needed for all events and camp lunches and t-shirt sales help subsidize campers.

Get more details on how your company can become a sponsor and see the latest updates on this new organization on: Facebook.com/GirlsRockWindsor.

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

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MAKING A SOUND LIVING

Scott Boorey: 40 Years Of Musical “Abracadabra”

By Lori Baldassi

B

efore you get to your seat at the concert, there is a kaleidoscope of moving parts and people working behind the curtain.

They are nameless, faceless, dedicated tradespeople who coordinate themselves with military precision to put an artist on the stage to bring you the very best experience.

Without their timing, knowledge and musical expertise, shows don’t happen, tours don’t happen and most artists are crippled without them.

For The Steve Miller Band their Sergeant At Arms is Scott Boorey, a 40 year veteran of everything attached to the management of a musician.

Through the years, Boorey has experienced the music industry from a musician, a seat on the tour bus, collecting pay from hidden offices in the back of smoky bars and hotel rooms, to the office suites of the most influential powerhouses of the music industry.

It was his place in the high school marching band in need of new uniforms that propelled him to produce his first show. Can you imagine at the age of 17 persuading eight parents to pony up $500 each, cold-calling legendary promoter Bill Graham and through him not only booking Elvin Bishop and Tower of Power, but taking care of the staging lights and sound?

A sold-out show gave the band their uniforms and sparked Boorey’s natural ability to get it all done.

An accomplished musician himself, Boorey’s side-hustle was managing a local music store called Leo’s Music, in San Francisco, where he dealt with artists like Santana, Jefferson Starship and The Grateful Dead and interacted with numerous managers and musicians assisting them in purchasing their gear.

After leaving his own band and the music store, Boorey dedicated his attention to a group called Y&T (Yesterday and Today). He was negotiating record deals, co-producing and engineering the music as well as booking and managing tours for a solid 10 years.

Running on that frequency can burn out even the most diehard people. Not Boorey!

He absorbed every moment and loved it.

The band saw concrete success as an opening act for major artists that garnered their own hits in Europe and the United States. A shakeup at their record label made them a causality of cuts that ended the band and therefore Boorey’s job.

His career pivot was headed into finance when a call from his long time Bay area friend, legendary Manager Herbie Herbert (Santana, Journey) set the wheels in motion to manage Gregg Rolie (Santana, Journey, Abraxas The Storm).

For the last 26 years (never missed a show I might add) he has managed and mixed sound for The Steve Miller Band.

Boorey spoke with me from his home in California in January between phone calls booking the band’s 2020 tour. (See tour dates on: SteveMillerBand.com).

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Scott Boorey — manager of Steve Miller and Gregg Rolie — still “Fly(s) Like an Eagle”. Photo courtesy of David Woo.

Biz X: Does being a musician make a big difference in how you perform your duties as a manager?

Scott Boorey (SB): Absolutely. It was when I had my own band that I learned where to put the microphones, how to EQ the drums, where the equipment on stage should be and so forth. Again, I never went to school for any of this, I just had an ear for what was right and what wasn’t. I attribute that to being a musician. Today, you would be surprised at how many managers cut costs on the sound only because they don’t really know what is good. They know what’s too loud, but that’s about it. When I made my management deal with Steve Miller the contract specifically stated that I mix the shows.

Biz X: What are the top five things you need to be a tour manager?

SB: 1) Honesty. I pride myself on that and my reputation, a deal is a deal I will hold people accountable.

2) I have a saying “Everybody deserves to make a buck, but you have to be equally smart enough to understand when it’s

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not a good deal.” There is power in the word “NO”. There are times when I say, “no” and the promoter says, “I’m paying you everything you want” and I’ll say, “We need to take a break from this market this year.”

You can only go to the well so many times.

3) A good ear when it comes to sound.

Good eyes when it comes to lighting and a general understanding process producing music.

4) Good sense of how to hire people, because you get a lot of BS in this business. You have to hire people who will roll up their sleeves and do the work to get the job done. You also have to manage the dynamic of the people you hire including the artist.

5) I learned every facet of the business by doing it. If I had any advice it would be to learn every aspect of the business. The more you know the better off you’re going to be.

Biz X: Managers also settle up after the show. Have you ever had a time when the cheque didn’t clear?

SB: Yes just once, but it was a classic example of a promoter that didn’t know what they were doing and was writing cheques that weren’t worth the paper they were written on. It was a stressful month as I was on the phone with them constantly,

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before the show, walking him through what he needed to do and I was receiving tickets counts that were not good. I did give them the option to move the date or cancel. They chose to do the show and ended up writing us a bad cheque, which is a felony, and we went after the promoter who was found guilty and went to jail.

Biz X: How do you handle the travel?

SB: Touring is getting harder and harder to do, but you just learn how to do it. I never got wrapped up in that sex, drugs, and rock and roll thing. You have to be ready.

Last year we played two shows in England, flew home and the next day we played in the States. You have to have it together at this level. Your artist might call you in the middle of the night and want to meet.

You also can’t hold people accountable if you’re not.

From working backstage production to the radio airwaves, Lori Baldassi has been involved in the music industry on a number of professional levels for many years. Having spoken in front of the CRTC, Baldassi holds a certificate in Adjudication from York University Toronto and is a graduate of St. Clair College’s Media Convergence program. If you have any questions for her, please email: editorial@bizxmagazine.com.

EVENT PROFILE

Lavender Promotions — Not Dragging Their Heels With Upcoming World Class Drag Shows

By Joe McParland

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uPaul is the world’s most celebrated drag queen. His “RuPaul’s Drag Race” television series is now in season 12 and together with the spin-off shows — “RuPaul’s Drag U” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” — has contributed to a growing widespread interest and cult-like following in drag shows worldwide.

Traditionally, drag shows were the exclusive domain of gay bars, Pride parades and festivals. But today, drag shows are now being performed in mainstream entertainment venues and attended by a cross section of society.

Drag is an artistic art form that has, so to speak, “come out of the closets of gay bars everywhere”.

As proof of his popularity and success, RuPaul recently hosted “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) on February 8, the unofficial pinnacle of stardom and relevance for celebrities. It is believed to be the first time a drag queen has been granted this honour

by SNL. Drag is not a new or recent phenomenon.

As an art form, men dressing as women has been around for centuries in theatre. It is believed the word “drag” itself refers to the male actors dressing as women in theatre whose petticoats often “dragged” on the floor behind them. They were said to be “putting on the drags”.

There are persons in society who are “cross-dressers”. In the past, they were known as transvestites. Some are gay, some are heterosexual. What they share is a personal preference for dressing in the clothing of the opposite sex.

Drag queens are not the same as crossdressers; they wear feminine clothing for the sake of providing entertainment, not as an everyday personal preference.

They have also been tagged in the past — and still are today, to a lesser extent — with the term “female impersonators”. But, as American drag queen RuPaul once said, “I do not impersonate females! I don’t dress like a woman; I dress like a drag queen!”

The point he was making is that few drag queens with their expansive bouffant wigs, five-inch heels, amazing makeup, costumes and accessories, hardly look like traditional females. They present themselves not as impersonators of women, but as an exaggeration or caricature of the female.

In the 1970s and 1980s, drag shows

RuPaul star Willam (far right) at the RockStar Music Hall on September 27, 2019 on stage with local queens (from left): Juice Boxx, Erin Brockobic, Priyanka Love, Mel Lucier (Emcee), BOA, Geena Hayze and Bettie Rebel. Photo courtesy of Lavender Promotions/K&M Photography.

took place in Detroit-Windsor’s many gay establishments.

Torchy, one of Detroit’s earliest drag queens recalls: “There were 45 gay bars and five steam baths; it was huge in the ‘70s and ‘80s.”

A good number of these establishments featured drag shows. And some of the notable gay bars of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s in Windsor, such as JP’s, The Happy Tap, Louie’s, Sahara and Complex, let patrons be entertained by young gay males appearing as women lip synching the hits of their favourite divas.

During these decades, the Detroit area spawned many successful drag queens; performers like Torchy, Lady T Tempest, Cellophane, Chili Pepper, Trisha Trash, Christina Collins, Trixie Deluxxe, Jennifer Foxx and more.

A few of them did not just remain local favourites, but went on to become national celebrities.

Foxx, a frequent drag performer at JP’s on Riverside Drive, had over 60 national television appearances in the ‘80s and beyond, including: “Entertainment Tonight”, “The Sally Jesse Raphael Show”, “The Tonight Show”, “The Joan Rivers Show”, “The Geraldo Rivera Show”, “Sonya Live” (CNN), and also had long-standing gigs at casinos in Atlantic City and Las Vegas.

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Then RuPaul came along, in 2009, with the “RuPaul’s Drag Race” television series. It has resulted in six primetime “Emmy” Awards and having him listed on Time magazine’s “The 100 Most Influential People in the World”. And RuPaul’s success meant success for the many contestants on his shows who became household names and went on to experience their own careers and fame.

Tapping into the stable of RuPaul’s showcased queens since January 2018 is Lawrence Lavender, Owner of Windsor’s Lavender Promotions.

Lavender, a part time professor at St. Clair College and former event promoter in the local LGBTQ community, explains why he ventured into drag shows . . .

“I’ve always looked to make a positive contribution to our Windsor LGBTQ community,” he comments. “I was an event promoter for a few years, putting on dance parties at different downtown venues. Being a big fan of RuPaul and his television series, I decided that drag shows were something the community was lacking, and what the community was looking for.”

At the same time, RockStar Music Hall and Platinum Room (Meeting and Banquet Hall) at 2418 Central Avenue in Windsor (RockStarPlatinum.com) had received a physical makeover under the direction of owner, David Michael.

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Detox is simply intoxicating and you’ll definitely need to “detox” after experiencing this show! Photo courtesy of Lavender Promotions.

RockStar now offered the perfect venue — a performance hall with appropriate capacity levels, a stage, a bar, food service, and plenty of onsite parking.

According to Lavender, “David Michael is a great businessman to work with and we have a terrific working relationship.”

Lavender started off, initially, by showcasing the talents of regional queens at RockStar. The success he experienced soon inspired him to go bigger and to include “star power” drag queens.

RuPaul spinoffs Pandora Box, Miz Cracker and Darienne Lake were among the first he recruited to perform in Windsor.

To date, he has brought 10 queens of RuPaul fame to Windsor for shows as headliners working alongside regional area queens.

“We have had near or complete sellouts at every show featuring the queens and the crowds in most cases have been 60 to 70 percent heterosexual, not just the expected LGBTQ crowds,” Lavender notes. “Seniors, men with their girlfriends, an entire cross section of society, make up the enthusiastic crowds.”

More recently, RuPaul contestant Willam (Belli) performed at RockStar on September 27, 2019 in a show emceed by local comedienne, Mel Lucier. Joining Willam were regional queens Juice Boxx, Erin Brockobic, Priyanka Love, BOA, Geena Hayze and Bettie Rebel.

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Lavender then arranged for the “Windsor International Film Festival” and RuPaul star Trixie Mattel to team up on November 9, 2019 for the screening of the cult dragqueen classic, “The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert”. This became one of the highlights of the 10 day film festival.

Two of the bigger names from RuPaul fame are slated to perform soon in Windsor.

They are Detox and Trinity “The Tuck” (formerly Trinity Taylor).

Detox is performing at the St. Clair College Life Centre (main campus) on March 6, 2020 at 8 p.m. After appearing in season five of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, Detox was runner up in 2016 in season two of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars,” and has an extensive background in drag performance including music videos with Kesha and Rihanna.

Trinity “The Tuck” appears April 4, 2020 also at the St. Clair College Life Centre (main campus) and is best known for competing on the ninth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and winning “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 4. Tickets are $30 to $50 with VIPs receiving early entry, a Meetn-Greet and more. The show is all-ages, but parental discretion is strongly advised.

I had the opportunity to email Trinity a few questions in February in advance of the April performance in Windsor. Here’s a quick recap.

Biz X: Trinity, what do you attribute to society’s recent growth and interest in drag performers, something that for so long has been relegated to primarily the gay community?

Trinity: The biggest attribute is obviously “RuPaul’s Drag Race”. There are also other shows that have been created that give visibility like “Dragula”, among others.

Also, social media and YouTube play a huge part now too. Drag is just so accessible by everyone.

Biz X: Your comedic pieces are hilarious.

Have you always had this ability to make people laugh?

Trinity: You know, I never thought of myself in a comedic way. But, my friends have

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Presenting Trinity “The Tuck”! Like the song goes, “Pretty in pink, isn’t she”? Photo courtesy of Lavender Promotions.

always laughed with me or at me. I can’t really tell which … ;-) Biz X: Finally, have you performed in the Windsor/Detroit area before? What can your fans expect to see in your upcoming show?

Trinity: I have travelled so many places over the years that I can’t remember if I have been in your area. I’m very excited to come and visit and meet everyone. You can expect to have a blast! I’m known for my tuck and crass humour so maybe a little of both …

LOL it will be a fun show!

Not wanting to forsake the local or regional drag queen talent, Lavender has recently kicked off “Starr’s Drag Brunch” at RockStar Music Hall, on the second Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. hosted

by Koko Starr with a different guest co-host each time. Drag, brunch and drinks — all so reminiscent of gay tea parties at bars on Sunday afternoons from decades ago.

For more information on these drag shows and other related events, or to purchase tickets, visit: LavenderPromotions.com.

“T2B Goes East” The 23rd Annual Gala For Transition To Betterness

January 25, 2020 at Caesars Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis, Assisted by Janice Peters. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. An event of this magnitude wouldn’t be possible without the incredible Transition to Betterness (T2B) office staff, Board of Directors, the T2B Action Committee members plus 100+ volunteers. Photographed are committee members and staff: Nicoleta Burlea, Ashley Ruccolo, Kasey Martins, Donna Gervais, Ruth Paesano, Susan Lengyel, Amber Hunter, Zishan Ali, Renee

Laforet, Doris Lapico, Dave Hunter, Tania Sorge, Lisa Franchi, Samantha Arpino, Lina Mastronardi, Bianca Franchi, Elaine Boccioletti, Laurie Ohler, Linda Ruccolo, Lisa Albano, Linda Santos and Sandra Presland.

For more information about this charitable organization, their on-going programs, volunteer opportunities or ways to give, just visit their website: T2B.ca.

2. Raising a whopping $400,000 certainly was good reason for a family celebration for siblings Nauman Ali; (brother in law/husband) Dave Hunter, Co-host of “Dave and Chuck the Freak” on WRIF, and Emcee/Host for the evening; Amber Hunter, Executive Director of T2B and Afshin Ali, Developer OfficerSpecial Events & Community Outreach for The Downtown Mission of Windsor.

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T2B Gala photos continue from previous page . . .

3. (on previous page) Funds raised from the gala go directly to support T2B’s ongoing programs within our local hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing comfort to patients and their families impacted by a life-altering illness. Esteem Medical Esthetics — Jenny Griffin, Laura Faust, Sarah Deschamps, April LeBlanc, Krystal Souilliere, Dr. Donna Jezdic, Owner, Wendy Dowhan, Claudia Mastrogiacomo, Lauren Pereira, and Mairi Janisse — were all proud to be an event sponsor contributing to the charity's success.

Naccarato (Manager Philanthropy) and John Comisso (President, Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation). (Seated): Sandra Pontoni, Aarti Parikh, Gisele Seguin (Director Public Affairs, Communications and Philanthropy) and Louise Comisso.

6. Laurie Stockwell was the first man to graduate from Hôtel-Dieu Hospital School of Medical Technology and was a volunteer fire fighter.

Sadly, he lost his battle last year with Parkinson’s disease. His family attending the gala were: Jean Wark, Michael Dame, Christine Stockwell4. One thousand guests turned up to show their support for T2B, Dame, Jovan Keca, Patricia Keca, Marilyn Stockwell, Sharon Rogers, including RBC Financial Group, event sponsors and their spouses: Brooke Rogers, Marilyn Landry and Esther McGuire.

Debbie and Jeff Osgarby; Deb and Michael Tehan; Kristen and David Ochs; Margaret and Tony Corio; George Georges and Tina Ewanski.

7. Nolan Trepanier was just over the age of two when he passed away of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia.

5. At the Windsor Regional Hospital table (another sponsor) we found Paying tribute to this brave little boy was his family: a few of their valued employees, board members and their guests. David and Wendy Koop; Daniel and Jennifer Clifford; Peter and Luigina (Standing): Andrea Pontoni (Pontoni Professional Corporation); Trepanier; John and Beth Trepanier; Gary and Kaylene Chapman; Richard Vennettilli (Past President, Windsor Regional Hospital Shawn and Shannon Chapman.

Foundation); Shrenik Parikh (Foundation Board of Director); Cristina 8. For 2020, the theme “T2B Goes East” was inspired by the Moroccan, Indian, and Arabian cultures and beautifully decorated by Diane Spencler Glover of Designs by Diane, with fresh flowers by I&F Design. And who better to know that fantastic décor, food and company always “adds” up to a good time than an accounting firm? Chapman, Sanger & Associates, Chartered Professional Accountants in Kingsville was represented by Shawn Chapman who is shown with family, friends and clients: Chuck and Rachel Grover; Todd and Julie Preston; Shannon and Shawn Chapman, Tim Dobson and Sam Badreddine (O’Sarracino Trattoria & Wine Bar).

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9. In the V.I.P. Lounge, socializing over a few spirits, the Biz X photography team met up with Sandra Bauer, John Ondejko,

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

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Donna Bosco, Anna Rita Giorgi, Doris Lapico (T2B Co-founder), Jody Braithwaite, Fo Abiad (Title Sponsor FA Investments/ Abiad Family), Tania Sorge (T2B Co-founder) and Antonia Maceroni.

10. Scotia Wealth Management (sponsor) was another company present and was represented by: Jennifer O’Neil, Kyle Funkenhauser, Elaine Genyn, Dane Rushmere (Senior Associate, Private Banker, Private Banking, Bank of Nova Scotia); Tracey and Terry Roman, Jennifer and Sean White (The Sean White Group, Senior Wealth Manager at Scotia Wealth Management, Scotia McLeod division) and Abby White.

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11. Joe Varacalli, President at Sunset Luxury Homes, Inc. (event sponsor) and his wife Agapi know that when the sun sets the real gala fun begins, which included entertainment by DJ PJ Productions and a late night buffet.

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12. Gathering in the silent auction hall were: John Chisholm, DSMA — Dealer Solutions Mergers and Acquisitions; Sophia Chisholm, V. P. of the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation; Ken Quinn, President of Quinn Roofing Solutions Inc. and Sue Quinn.

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The 22nd Annual In Honour Of The Ones We Love (IHOWL) “Dreams Do Come True Gala” February 1, 2020 at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road, Oldcastle, ON.

Photos by Rod Denis, assisted by Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh. All people in photos listed from the left.

1. Over 1,000 IHOWL guests were welcomed at the Ciociaro Club to celebrate the lives of Vito Badalamenti, Michele (Mike) Calamita, Mary Kathryn “Mary-Kit” Hambleton, John Reiner, and Giuseppe (Joe) Conciatori.

Posing outside the entrance to the hall was the Conciatori family: George and Melissa Pazianas; Emelia and Michael Lozynsky; and Kelly, Maurizio, Silvana, Tony, Franca, Jenna, Silvana and Christian Conciatori.

2. Once again, McDonald’s Restaurants Windsor & Essex County supported the gala with a sponsorship and were represented by management, their spouses, and guests: Gene Dennis, Senior ICO Researcher at G. Dennis Financial Management and from Evanandrew Foods, Inc. — Julie Dennis, Community Relations Representative; Tony and Nancy Pizzo, Supervisor; Andy Bukovac (local McDonald’s franchisee and Owner of Evanandrew Foods, Inc.) and his wife Eva; Nancy and John Fogalia; Natasha Kovacs, Senior Financial Planner at TD and Jason Schneider, Director & Team Lead, CIBC Commercial Banking.

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3. The “Above and Beyond” Award was presented to two amazing ladies, Julie Dennis and Nancy Pizzo (far right), from McDonald’s Restaurants Windsor & Essex County who are pictured with In Honour’s Anita Imperioli (middle) and Teresa Silvestri.

4. The Badalamenti family lit a candle in honour of Vito Badalamenti as part of the memorable candle lighting ceremony, which reminds us of all of our loved ones who have passed away.

5. Highlights of the evening were two cheque presentations to IHOWL’s Anita Imperioli (middle) and Teresa Silvestri (second from right) from Vince and Margaret Moceri (Windsor Disposal Services /GFL Green For Life) which is included in the $375,000 total raised and counting!. In Honour is proud to fund diverse projects that are beneficial to patients with life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, mental health and their families.

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6. This year the “Hand in Hand” Award was given to McDonald’s Restaurant franchisee Andy Bukovac of Evanandrew Foods, Inc. He is photographed with Motor City Community Credit Union CEO Robert Griffith during the official award presentation.

7. Building on their community support by co-sponsoring the gala was Alpine Construction represented by: Mike and Lauren Underwood; Chris, Ashley, Ivanna and Lou Savoni; Alyssa Meloche; with Chris, Joan and Greg Renaud.

8. Canadian Club (CC) has also been a big supporter of IHOWL for several years. CC guests in attendance were: Nicholas Brancaccio; Art Jahns; Christine Malott; Mary-Ellen Willard, Executive Creative Director at adHOME; Gord Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island; Tish Harcus, Brand Ambassador Canadian Club and her husband Ed;

Jane Deneau with her hubby, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens and, Justin Harcus.

9. The evening began with hors d’oeuvres from Koolini and sparkling wine, courtesy of Pelee Island Winery. Raise your glass to toast another valued sponsor, the team from the Motor City Community Credit Union: Sue Mancini, Assistant Branch Manager; Sonia Lenhardt, Branch Manager; Rob Griffith, CEO; Mario Coppola, IT Manager; Dawn Stallard, Executive Assistant and Matt Sauro, Credit Solution Manager.

10. Honouring the lives of Mary Kathryn “Mary-Kit” Hambleton and John Reiner were: Dan, Debbie and Pat Reiner; Brad and Patricia Hearn; Beth Huneault; Robyn and Matt Conte and Johnny Reiner.

Find out more information on this local charity by visiting their website: InHonour.ca.

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from the bookshelf

Farmerettes In World War II And A Young Woman Determined To Find Her Freedom

By Marlene Markham-Gay

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ormer Farmerette Shirleyan English and Bonnie Sitter have written an historical account of the Ontario Farm Service Force and the young ladies who worked as Farmerettes on farms during WWII. The book is called “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes.”

As Sitter writes, “These young ladies are part of Ontario agricultural history and World War II history and have never been recognized for their war effort.”

While the men were off fighting for our freedom, the young women (Farmerettes) promised to “Lend a Hand” and were transported by the Farm Service Force to farms such as the one located in Cottam, a hometown connection here in southwestern Ontario.

Included is a very detailed letter from a Farmerette who worked at this camp, as well as black and white photos.

Forty stories are told in this fascinating book, along with photos showing the ladies working, as well as having fun enjoying their camaraderie.

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Sitter writes, “The former Farmerettes that I have spoken with are mostly in their late ‘80s and early ‘90s and their Farmerette days are still wonderful memories to all of them. It is time we said thanks for your service. The crops would not have been planted and picked and hoed and harvested without them. Thousands and thousands of them.”

Kim Blackwell, the Artistic Director at 4th Line Theatre near Peterborough Ontario, heard about the book and contacted the authors. Alison Lawrence, playwright, has been commissioned to write a play based on the book.

It is expected to be of interest to former Farmerettes and their families located across the province as well as farm communities across Ontario.

“Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz” is available at Essex & Community Historical Research Society, 18 Gordon Avenue, Essex; Kingsville Legion Museum, 145 Division Road South, Kingsville and also on the website: BonnieSitterPhotography.wordpress.com.

Next up is an historical novel titled “To the River: The Remarkable Journey of Caroline Quarlls, A Freedom Seeker on the Underground Railroad” by Larry A. McClellan and Kimberly Simmons. This is the true story of a beautiful 16 year old and her journey to escape slavery by way of the Underground Railway.

It was in 1843 that Quarlls left by herself to find her freedom by way of Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and Michigan.

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She crossed the Detroit River and reached her destination, Sandwich Ontario. All the while there were bounty hunters following her.

Quarlls had shared correspondence with an American abolitionist who helped her on this journey, the letters were saved, and they are the reason the account is accurate.

She married another Underground Railroad survivor Allen Watkins and raised a family. The Watkins’ descendants reside in Sandwich, Windsor and the surrounding areas, today. Co-author Simmons is a descendant of Quarlls and Watkins families.

The authors write, “Caroline’s journey to freedom began with first walking to the Mississippi, going to the river to escape her bondage.

Then, weeks later, when she arrived in Detroit, she was going to the river to claim her freedom in Canada. Throughout, it was a journey of boldness, courage, and great trust in those willing to help.”

This book is an accurate account of an incident in black history and it is a valuable addition to everyone’s library. Historical reading at its best, complete with facts and intrigue, you will want to read it.

“To the River: The Remarkable Journey of Caroline Quarlls, A Freedom Seeker on the Underground Railroad” is available at Biblioasis Book Store, 1520 Wyandotte Street East in Windsor and online at: ThornCreekPress.com.

Marlene Markham-Gay is the former host of CFTV’s “Storyteller.” She promotes local authors through the book corner at The Essex Railway Station, inviting them to display and sell books.

She has encouraged all eight of her grandchildren to read.

THE WAY IT WAS

The “Windsor” Idea . . .

A Tradition For Building A Capacity For Social Change

By Andrea Grimes

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ooking back on Windsor’s history, one might ask, “What did Windsor have going for itself, having just stepped out of the Great War?” Our battle-hardened Veterans were coming home. They were torn inside-out suffering from the unimaginable horrors of war; those which tormented them relentlessly . . . forever changing their lives!

Canada owed a debt of gratitude to our Veterans, and as such, Windsor was determined to recognize the sacrifice our Veterans made to preserve our Canadian values of democracy.

However, as our community was rebounding from the Great War, there just weren’t the essential resources at hand to provide the social support our Veterans needed to get back on their feet.

Many of our leading citizens were motivated by their patriotic responsibility to support our Veterans. Under the auspices of their civic groups, members laid the foundations for the provision of humanitarian relief for families whose lives were marginalized by war.

One such organization (with a 100 year presence in our city) is the Windsor Downtown Lions Club. According to an article published in the Border Cities Lions Club Magazine, “Canada’s first Lions Club was founded in Windsor, Ontario on March 12, 1920. Despite the youth and inexperience of this first Canadian Club, it is making rapid progress on the work of LIONISM.” At the Border Cities Lions Club first ladies’ night dinner held May 24, 1920, the Club’s President J.R. Hewer said, “One thing we should do is to stand behind any move for the betterment of the men who fought for us in France.”

According to an article published in the Border Cities Star on July 20, 1920, “The Lions Club-hosted benefit faire, held at the Windsor Armouries, proved to be a success.”

The article noted that 20 vendors set up stalls, (one in particular being the Ye Isaac Walton Fish Pond). Four bands and Vaudeville acts entertained guests with the $1,000 generated from the event donated to the Veterans Social Fund for Veterans convalescing in Hôtel-Dieu Hospital.

Archives show that, since 1920, the Club has successfully sponsored notable projects which funded a variety of services and programs for the benefit of our community.

Valerie Burningham, Windsor Downtown Lions Club, Second Vice District Governor (District A-1) says, “One of the Club’s most ambitions achievements was the opening of the Lions Manor in 1979. Our members also fundraised to build a swimming pool and skating rink complex at the Lions Community Centre in Lanspeary Park in the 1950s. The Club continues its presence in the community.”

To commemorate the Club’s 100th anniversary in March 2020, Windsor artist/ sculptor Mark Williams was commissioned to design and create a statue of Helen Keller.

The memorial serves to recognize Keller as a legendary pioneer committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals whose lives are impacted by vision and/or hearing loss.

Throughout her life, Keller was committed to improving the economic, social and psychological lives of returning Veterans who lost their sight in combat in the Great War, the Second World War and the Korean War. Although implementing sustainable

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This bronze statue of Helen Keller, commemorating the Windsor Downtown Lions Club 100th anniversary, was designed and created by Windsor’s artist and sculptor, Mark Williams. Photo courtesy of The Windsor Downtown Lions Club.

solutions to address our community’s eco-social challenges has changed over the decades, the Club’s central purpose remains constant. As Burningham states, it is: “To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions’ Clubs.”

To quote Keller (The Home Magazine, September 1930); “If we do not like our work, and do not try to get happiness out of it, we are a menace to our profession, as well as to ourselves.”

The Lions Club’s 100 year history will be recognized with a roaring centennial commemoration on March 21, 2020 at the Caboto Club. For ticket information, contact Lion Dave Balmos by email: davecarol@sympatico.ca or call: 519-791-8714.

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

Don’t Be Jealous . . . There’s Plenty Of Eco-Friendly Products In Store For All At Green Envy Story And Photo By Ujjwal Sharma

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ith today’s eco-conscious they are not just a number or sale climate, people are caring — but someone special — this more about how the products they builds a great relationship. purchase are affecting the earth, “The way they are treated may and are working harder to reduce decide whether they return or their carbon footprint. not,” she believes.

Kristina Patrick-Khan hopes Patrick-Khan also feels it is to provide an opportunity for important to be active and to give locals to live a “greener” life back to the community. through her thriving business, “So far we have organized two Green Envy. clean ups, one at Sandpoint Beach “If living a more eco-conscious, and the other at Devonwood green lifestyle has been on your Conservation Area,” she mind, or interests you — along describes. “We have also teamed with supporting local small up with the local cat rescue business and supporting Canadian group, CARA (Cat Advocacy products and companies — then and Rescue Association), and you definitely need to stop by and As the sole proprietor of Green Envy, Kristina Patrick-Khan knows exceptional hosted ‘Caturday’ adoption customer service can make or break a small business, so she makes sure every and fundraising events, and we see us,” asserts Patrick-Khan.

Green Envy, 1277 Grand visit to her shop is a memorable one for customers. also sell CARA merchandise.”

Marais Road West in Windsor, She is eager to plan and host opened in August 2018.

“We try and go above and beyond to more similar environmentally friendly Patrick-Khan says her business assist our customers, whether it is their events in the near future. specializes in cruelty-free products, Through her business, she also first visit or their tenth, we want them meaning no animal testing has taken place to feel welcome at every visit,” Patrick- collects old mascara wands, which are in the making of any of their personal care, Khan indicates. “Providing exceptional washed and sent to Wands for Wildlife, cleaning products or cosmetics — most of customer service will make or break a small which supports the Appalachian which are vegan. And their eco-friendly business. That is why we pride ourselves Wildlife Refuge. products do no harm to the environment. in making every visit a memorable one.”

“Wands are used to clean and “We carry a large selection of zero waste One such way Patrick-Khan puts her groom rescued animals during their products, so if you’re looking to eliminate customers first is by collecting their names rehabilitation,” Patrick-Khan explains. single-use items, such as dryer sheets, and email addresses to put in their system.

When you walk through the doors straws, Ziploc bags or plastic produce She explains this is done so they can at Green Envy, you’ll quickly realize bags, we offer reusable options,” she adds. offer a digital copy of their receipt, making you’ve found a “one-stop shop for the “And our bulk station makes us extremely their system paperless, but also to be able eco-person,” according to Patrick-Khan. unique in this area. We offer 17 products in to greet customers, by name, the next time “We hope to grow our selection of bulk — and counting. This has definitely they visit. low/zero waste goods, become a must-visit been our most popular asset and we look “We believe small things like this make destination shop for the eco-person, widen forward to expanding the bulk section of us stand out,” she states. “If a customer our customer base and organize more the store.” has been telling you about a trip they are cleanups and events,” she states about the Their silicone storage bags and selection taking, for instance, we try and remember future of Green Envy. of cruelty-free Elate cosmetics are also so that next time we follow up with them.

To see the latest products coming to extremely popular, she states. They carry the shelves of this eco-friendly shop visit: They truly enjoy this.” a line of vegan handbags as well.

She says when customers come to know Facebook.com/greenenvywindsoressex.

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