Biz X magazine March 2021

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION The Rose City Politics Panel Debates The Endorsement Of The Public First Report On Economic Diversification

March 2021

$3.50

“9-1-1, What Is Your Emergency?” We Need To Chat With Bruce Krauter, Chief Of Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services, STAT! Food, Glorious Food! New Dining Choices Pop Up In Tecumseh THE PARENTING BIZ Mental Health Matters For Your Children PLUS A Change Of Scenery For The Pasta House; Supreme Services; Silverstein’s Produce; Marie-Rose Music Studio; The War Amps; Syd’s Sandwich Co. & The "Shop Local, Shop Safe" Campaign

“Just Think!”

Times are tough, but a ray of hope may come from the dozens of government programs and grants available to help companies survive COVID-19 restrictions. Are you contemplating these options for your business? Which programs should you apply online for?

It may be confusing and overwhelming, but Biz X has you covered! With assistance from local accounting firms we fill you in on economic relief measures to help pay for wages, rent, energy, PPE and more. — Page 18

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

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table of contents MARCH 2021 volume 24 • issue 3

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27 XX Files: Striking A Chord With The Kids

The Owner and Lead Instructor of Marie-Rose Music Studio, Jordyn Severin (in photo, courtesy of Vanessa BoutinKoveos), is passionate about providing her students with high quality education and teaching music theory through the Music for Young Children program. Her studio also offers a variety of other services and the staff is committed to excellence in all they do. There’s no doubt that music is definitely their forte!

28 Biz Bits: Local Diner Aims To Educate The Public About Mental Illness 30 The Parenting Biz: Good Mental Health Is Essential For Children A global pandemic, isolating at home, not being able to see family and friends, remote learning, increased computer screen time . . . it all adds up to big changes for your kids. Everything is stressful enough for adults, but imagine being a child who is not sure what is going on! Parents should be aware that helping to develop their children’s coping and social skills is crucial for the future. Pandemic aside, children have always had a lot to deal with such as bullying, personal relationships, self image and more.

We talk to the experts who offer a few tips to make sure your child has a healthy mind and they suggest various programs offered in the community to help, should problems arise.

36 From The Bookshelf: “Chuckles And Boomerang” Children’s Series 37 Charity Profile: Make-A-Wish “Go Blue! Go Bald!” Fundraiser 38 Biz Of The Month: Silverstein’s Produce

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ON THE COVER —“Just Think!”—18 Federal and provincial government programs designed to help companies survive the year-long COVID-19 global health crisis can assist in paying wages, meeting rent commitments, accessing business loans and subsidizing the cost of Personal Protective Equipment for businesses in all kinds of sectors. Some provide direct funding through grants and others allow business owners to take on interest-free loans, a portion of which may be forgivable, depending upon the company’s financial situation. Learn which program is best for your business!

Photo credit: © Can Stock Photo/BelleMedia BIZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 1

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© Can Stock Photo/daisydaisy

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: The POST Promise To Keep Customers And Staff Safe During The Pandemic 6 Rose City Politics: Windsor's New Economic Diversification Strategy 8 Front Lines 11 Heard On The Street 12 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: A Special Tribute To Essex-Windsor EMS Like the rest of the world, Windsor and Essex County is now more than a year into the fight against COVID-19. A regiment of frontline warriors in this war are the women and men of the Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Their deservedly proud Chief Bruce Krauter (shown in photo he provided) recently shared a ZOOM “Cup of Joe” with our own Joe McParland. In this interview, the Chief reflects on the past 12 months and the struggles on his workforce, as well as the significant contribution they make to help keep their patients safe.

14 Newsflash 15 The Way It Was: The War Amps Changed The Battles They Fought 16 Food For Thought: Syd’s Sandwich Co., Downtown Windsor Sydney Filiault (in photo, courtesy of Josh Wilson), Owner of Syd’s Sandwich Co., gets ready to sink her teeth into a Corned Beef on Rye. A classic deli sandwich, it comes loaded with mustard, Swiss, toasted rye and stacked with corned beef. Once you see how monstrous this sandwich is (and tasty too), we know you will want the juicy details on where you can get one!

24 Ask The Experts: Supreme Services 26 Portfolio Corner: Be Prepared For Opportunity

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from the publisher

“Shop Local! Shop Safe!

Shop With Confidence”

By Deborah Jones This month marks one year for our region, province and country dealing with COVID-19 shutdowns and ever-changing businesses restrictions.

Life sure has changed as we use to know it and unfortunately, what’s in store for the future is unknown.

One thing is certain though, we will get through it together.

With many sectors hit with openings and then closures, right now more businesses have been able to re-open since the “Stay at Home” order earlier this year.

Hopefully, they can stay open, but that’s only if local residents follow all the health guidelines and business owners do as well.

We all understand the importance of buying local . . . or it’s bye, bye local! Simple as that.

But, even if stores are permitted to open by our government and health units, does that mean shoppers will return?

To help, The Province of Ontario launched the “Shop Local! Shop Safe! Shop With

Confidence” campaign last October to celebrate “Small Business Month”. Of course, Windsor Essex has the #ShopYQG campaign as well, to promote retail businesses in our area too.

Those working in fitness clubs, the wedding industry, personal care services, tourist attractions, restaurants and more want people to patronize their businesses.

Most were closed for several months (however, some may have offered curbside pickup or online shopping) to do their part in stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus — and now it’s our turn to help them recover.

We need to do our part to make sure people support local small businesses and they can shop safely while doing so.

If you are a business owner or manager, follow the principles of the People Outside Safely Together (POST) Promise by adhering to health guidelines so consumers can shop safely and with confidence.

There are five key steps to workplace safety that include: washing and sanitizing hands;

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maintaining physical distancing; staying home if unwell; wearing a face covering when required; and cleaning and disinfecting regularly. You can make this promise at: PostPromise.com.

Businesses that make the promise are then able to use and display the POST Promise logo, which will act as a clear indication to employees and customers that they are doing their part to protect Canadians’ health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The more businesses and workplaces adopting the use of the POST Promise logo, the more recognizable it will be to the general public, thus increasing consumer confidence.

There is no cost to make the POST Promise . . . so what are you waiting for? It’s worth it to do everything you can to ensure people return to your business during this ongoing global pandemic.

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Rose City Politics

In this space the Rose City Politics panel will analyze, breakdown, and critique a local political issue that affects each and every Windsor resident.

The City Of Windsor New Economic Diversification Strategy

In this edition, the Rose City Politics panel opines on the City of Windsor Council’s endorsement of the Public First report on economic diversification, with recommendations to come from administration on implementation.

The City of Windsor has seen many economic diversification strategies over the years and the Rose City Politics panel (each in their own individual opinions) breaks down what, if anything, is different about the situation now.

Windsor City Council sent an encouraging message on February 8, 2021 voting unanimously to support the “Windsor Works’” Economic Diversification Strategy.

There are fair questions to be asked about the process that led to the contract, and plenty of room for critique. What matters is the way the Mayor and Council move forward.

The L.I.F.T. strategy calls for Windsor to renew and intensify our economic partnership with Detroit, retain and grow a talented workforce, and revitalize the city core. These aren’t new ideas, but they’re good ideas that stand a chance to be realized if elected officials put their differences and egos aside to focus on the work at hand.

Economic diversification has been a staple of headlines and campaign slogans for over a decade, but substantive movement has been lacking. Council can make real progress by building an inclusive, accountable process that invites all Windsorites to help design the city’s economic future.

Jon Liedtke Am I being gaslighted? I feel like it.

Windsor’s recent economic development strategy — unanimously approved by city council — was developed by a public relations firm located roughly 6,000 kilometres away, and on face value looks

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To get better results in the next decade, we need to separate projects that move the needle from those that just make noise.

Councillors, led by Rino Bortolin, made a good start in their questions to delegates.

Moving forward they should hold themselves and partner organizations accountable by setting measurable objectives and transparently reporting on progress.

I was struck by how many critics seemed unprepared to give the Public First report a fair hearing. Many progressive Windsorites, with valuable ideas to contribute, feel shut out of the process. That’s a problem and the task of resolving it rests with Mayor Drew Dilkens.

The Mayor’s initiative on this issue has opened the door to a glittering opportunity for Windsor. Council can seize the opportunity and build a stronger economic future by committing to an open process aimed at building shared prosperity through economic diversification.

Doug Sartori is a political observer and organizer. When he’s not recording podcasts or getting people out to vote he runs Parallel 42 Systems, a technology consultancy in downtown Windsor.

pretty good. But honestly, so have all the other EcDev strategies we’ve pursued.

For those unaware, to be “gaslighted” is when someone makes another person question their perception of reality. This is where I am. To quote Mugatu from the comedy film “Zoolander” — “I feel like I’m taking crazy pills!”

I’ve grown up in a political household with parents who have run for city council, owned small businesses, written for local publications, and organized some of the largest musical festivals in North America.

Which is to say, I’ve grown up hearing about all the ways Windsor has sought to redefine, redevelop, or seek to implement strategies to propel itself into a new era of prosperity, or at the very least, make everyone else realize Ontario doesn’t stop at London!

Windsor has seen it all: a downtown arena moved east towards Tecumseh because we shunned Wayne Gretzky’s proposal; sports tourism and over $80 million spent on an aquatic centre with unsustainable

operating expenses; Eddie Francis and Sandra Pupatello’s whirlwind Windsor promotional tour (arguably the best EcDev strategy we’ve seen); the Amazon HQ2 bid; branding the region as one of the top seven intelligent cities — or retirement communities?; working with Detroit somehow; or even just seeking federal and provincial funding for a mega-hospital that will hollow out our core. We’re all used to this game . . . heck, most of us root for the Lions; we know perpetual failure.

Why will this be different? Councillors and the Mayor tell us it will. I hope so because Windsor needs an economic development shot in its arm as much as we need COVID-19 vaccinations.

For all our sakes, let’s hope this strategy works, because we need its success to propel Windsor from the 1980s forward.

Jon Liedtke is a Co-host and Producer of Rose City Politics, a business consultant focusing on cannabis and marketing, an occasional reporter and writer, and a band member of Windsor’s The Nefidovs.

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Doug Sartori

In 1973, at age 12, Mike Lazaridis won an award for reading every science book in the Windsor Public Library. Lazaridis, founder of a tech firm, went on to revolutionize the wireless communications industry with the development of Blackberry.

I often wonder what conditions could have existed for Lazaridis (and countless others) that would have seen him stay, or return, to build his life and enterprise here, in the city where he was raised. It’s an intellectual exercise, but it can nonetheless assist us even now, four decades later, in unpacking what it means to retain, and attract, talent.

Talent attraction and retention is just one of the themes that run through the “Windsor Works” report. It was prepared by Public First, a consulting company which helps “organizations understand and influence public opinion”. These public relations experts did not give us a blueprint for economic diversification, but that doesn’t mean the report didn’t serve a worthy purpose.

Economic diversification, not unlike diversified portfolios in financial markets, aims to reduce financial risk so that we can

survive bad hits, stay afloat, and keep moving forward over the long term.

Public First’s — unstated — purpose was to ensure that people in this city, whose livelihood and identity has so heavily relied on automotive manufacturing, are prepared to prioritize economic diversification strategies — details to follow.

With support from cross sectoral stakeholders and the unanimous endorsement of city council, Public First delivered what it was paid to deliver. They did it by including a little something for everyone, enough to get people on board and prepared to pick up an oar to help propel us. What happens next is the important and far more telling part.

Where do we want to go and how do we decide how we get there? All eyes on the City’s forthcoming implementation recommendations.

What brings people to Windsor and makes us want to make it our home? What keeps people here? Why do others, like Lazaridis, need to leave? While we wait for the next report, we should reflect on those things and also, the greatness of public libraries.

Pat Papadeas Pat Papadeas is a legal studies professor at St. Clair College and co-author of the textbook Canadian Business Law (Emond Publishing). She is active in organizations that directly or indirectly support a bold and vibrant downtown.

Rose City Politics broadcasts each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at RoseCityPolitics.ca and is available on all your favourite podcasting apps, and appears in print monthly in Biz X magazine.

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FRONTLINES Kingsville Restaurateurs Purchase The Pasta House After more than 30 years of serving the fresh pasta needs of Windsorites, The Pasta House is changing hands and moving from Erie Street East.

Sam and Pete Badreddine, owners of O’Sarracino Trattoria & Wine Bar — 31 Main Street West in Kingsville — have bought the long-established Little Italy mainstay from Pina and Carm Simone who have run the shop as a husband-and-wife team for over 30 years.

“When we first opened, there were some family members involved, but once the business became established after a few years, Carm and I started running it ourselves,” explains Pina. “It’s been a great business, but it’s time to step away and let someone else take it over.”

The Badreddine brothers took ownership on February 1, 2021 and are in the middle of a two month training and transition period in preparation for an eventual move in April, to 2950 Dougall Avenue.

New owners and new address means . . . new logo!

“Pete and I decided we wanted to expand the business, so we needed more space and the Dougall location is in a high traffic area with lots of parking,” says Sam in discussing the move.

The brothers plan to keep the same Pasta House recipes and mix in a few more from their own restaurant, while keeping the same staff in place and hope to add more when business picks up again (when COVID-19 restrictions relax more).

During the pandemic, the Simones shut the store down to concentrate on producing pasta for local restaurants and the large orders coming in from grocery stores (Silverstein’s Produce, Sobeys and Remark Fresh Markets) in the area, before re-opening one day a week, since September, to service retail customers.

“Trying to make sure our production area and retail shop were safe for staff and customers became a challenge, so we closed for a few months and concentrated on production rather than retail sales,” says Pina.

The Simones have been considering retirement for a few years, but with changes coming to the building at 465 Erie Street East and a granddaughter on the way, the timing seemed right.

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Sam and Pete Badreddine, new owners of The Pasta House, pose with Carm and Pina Simone at the couple’s current location. The brothers are ready to discover the pastabilities with a big move in the works this spring. Photo by Rod Denis.

“We had been using the second floor for storage, but our landlord is planning on using that floor for something else,” Pina states. “We’ve moved three times over the past three decades, always along Erie Street, and we didn’t feel like moving again.”

She adds: “We’re really excited about our first grandchild and I think it was the universe telling us now is the right time. The universe doesn’t always give you what you want, but often what you need.”

The Badreddines, who are of Lebanese descent, opened O’Sarracino nine years ago and have since watched Kingsville become a destination for Essex County foodies.

“We took a chance and it paid off,” comments Sam, who has more than 25 years experience in the hospitality sector. “We looked at the demographics in Kingsville and felt it was a good location for an Italian restaurant and now the town has a number of good places to eat and we’re happy with our decision.”

The Badreddines have been dealing with the Simones for more than 20 years, so they are fully aware of The Pasta House’s quality products.

Sam points out that O’Sarracino was open for curbside pickup throughout the pandemic lockdown and now can re-open for limited dining.

“It’s been tough on all of us,” he says. “We’ve tried to keep as many of our 16 staff working, but it’s been a challenge.”

The Badreddines, with Pete taking the lead role, plan to open five days a week at The Pasta House and add to the staff as required at the new location.

For more information, search “The Pasta House Windsor” on Facebook and refer to: OSarracino.ca. The Badreddines expect to have a revamped website at: ThePastaHouse.ca up and running by the end of March.

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FRONTLINES New Windsor PPE Company Does It All From Product Design To Production A Windsor company has jumped into production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and is already shipping its newlydesigned face masks across Canada with its face shields soon to follow.

“We’ve launched a vertically-integrated PPE company right here in Windsor and we have some innovative new products that we’re introducing to help fill the demand for civilian-centric PPE,” explains Trevor Pare, Co-founder of ATMIS Protective Equipment along with Andrew and Dave Glover of Harbour Technologies.

Made in Windsor, the “Atmis Sphere” is a stylish alternative face covering for work and play. Photo courtesy of Atmis.

Products include a surgical mask (C-3) and a C-95 shield, which is a non-medical version of the N-95 masks used by medical personnel on the front lines of the pandemic.

ATMIS is currently producing about 10,000 Level 3 surgical masks daily. And the company is also finalizing its design of a plastic face shield, which it has dubbed the “Atmis Sphere”.

ATMIS was launched in March 2020 to meet the unprecedented demand for nonsurgical face masks and face shields, amid the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Pare points out that most of the PPE many people are wearing today, was initially intended for healthcare workers, so ATMIS created civilian-optimized products, which make more sense in the daily lives of most people who want to wear masks.

Founded by engineers, ATMIS does everything in-house, from product design to production and even builds its own production equipment.

“It’s all only possible through the involvement of the people at Harbour who pivoted quickly in the early months of the pandemic and are now producing groundbreaking new products to help make Canada more self-sufficient when it comes to PPE supplies,” says Pare. “We were able to do this so quickly because of Harbour’s expertise in production.” (See: Harbour-Tech.com) He adds that because people may be wearing masks for the foreseeable future and for longer periods of time, the masks and shields had to be comfortable.

“Making them better than what was already on the market and making them more comfortable was our primary concern,” states Pare, who is also Co-founder with Gregory Edwards of DarkRoast, a graphic design company with clients across North America (refer to: DarkRoast.co).

The company’s 22,000 square foot plant in Oldcastle will be capable of turning out 22,000 Atmis C3 a day, 9,000 C-95s and as many as 2,000 Atmis Sphere shields, once production is fully underway.

Collaborating with Atmis on this project are a number of local tool and die companies, which have stepped in to complete work not undertaken by ATMIS. All of which keeps production virtually 100% local, from sourcing to production to final delivery.

All of the company’s products ship from a warehouse in Windsor and can be delivered across Canada within days.

Pare mentions that the clear face shields, made of polycarbonate plastic, are three times the thickness of the thinner varieties currently being used by most frontline workers. The C-3 mask is a three-layer disposable model.

ATMIS customers include companies and organizations in health care, hospitality, nuclear, agriculture, dental, education, government and retail sectors.

For more information on ATMIS products and to place an order, visit: Atmis.ca.

WWW.HDGH.ORG

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HEARD ON THE STREET Food related businesses seem to popping up all over recently, in the town of Tecumseh! We start with the owner of two local Mediterranean restaurants who is launching a new bakery featuring Lebanese delicacies. Manoushii Lebanese Bakery is expected to open by the beginning of March at 1614 Lesperance Road, where Eddy Hammoud operates Tabouli by Eddy’s (EddysRestaurants.ca). “I’ve always wanted to open a Lebanese-style bakery, but starting a new business from scratch during COVID is difficult, so for now we’re going to work out of my existing Tecumseh restaurant,” explains Hammoud. The bakery features mostly breakfast dishes, including hummus with beef tips, an Arab-style pizza with fresh dough and toppings such as cheese, vegetables and zaatar, a mix of spices, along with spinach pies and spinach and cheese pies. For now, orders can be made online at: Manoushii.ca with delivery through Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes and DoorDash. Eventually, Hammoud hopes to have curbside pickup available and plans to open the bakery for breakfast on weekends, once COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed. If the bakery proves successful he might eventually move it into its own space. Hammoud also owns Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro at 420 Tecumseh Road East and Convenient Perfection Mobile Detailing (ConvenientPerfection.ca).

The latest in a series of sushi restaurants to open in Tecumseh, joining Niko Sushi, 10 Amy Croft Drive (also at Devonshire Mall) and Salt Sushi, 25 Amy Croft Drive, is Genki Sushi Noodle.

Situated in the St. Clair Beach Shopping Centre, 13504 Tecumseh Road East, Genki’s new home is in a space previously occupied by Baskin Robbins (which relocated to 1655 Manning Road in summer 2020). Sue Yong, a spokeswoman for the Genki owners, says they decided to move from 1584 Huron Church Road (operating as Genki

Sushi) as they needed a smaller space because their dining room had been forced to close due to COVID-19 restrictions. For now, the restaurant is offering curbside pickup and the owners are in the process of hiring their own driver so they can start offering their own delivery services. For more information on menu items, visit: GenkiSushi.ca.

The restaurant scene continues to grow with the addition of East Valley Pizza, 25 Amy Croft Drive (Facebook.com/eastvalleypizza) in Tecumseh. The pizzeria features a variety of specialty pizzas, pastas, chicken parmesan, lasagna, chicken wings, chicken Thai bites, salads and desserts. And a few doors down at 18 Amy Croft Drive, Hamoudi’s Shawarma has opened a second location offering a variety of shawarmas, shish kababs, shish tawook, shish kafta, burgers, tabouli, hummus, soups and salads. Get further details on the new location on: Facebook.com/hamoudisshawarmalakeshore.

Hamoudi’s original restaurant can be found at 3392 Dougall Avenue in Windsor.

The Junction Box Ristorante, Pizzeria, Bar has opened at 13039 Tecumseh Road East in a location previously occupied by El Guaco, a Mexican restaurant. The new Tecumseh eatery serves pizza, wings, burgers, fish, wraps, chicken bites, chicken strips, salads and a variety of sides including onion rings, mozzarella sticks, fries and potato wedges.

There are plenty of family specials offered with some great deals too! The restaurant features chic brickwork, a large mural along one wall, and a comfortable patio on warm summer evenings.

See their menu online at: JunctionBox.org.

But wait, there’s more exciting pizza news!

The region’s eighth Oven 360 pizza restaurant has opened at 12000 Tecumseh Road East, Unit #5, also in Tecumseh. Company founder

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Remo Tortola says the restaurants survived the pandemic largely because their business model relied heavily on pickup and delivery and not on inside dining. “We have limited dining spaces in all the restaurants, so not being able to serve customers inside wasn’t a huge problem,” he adds.

“It’s called fast-casual and while we’re happy to have people dine inside, it wasn’t crucial.” Two restaurants — 1349 Grand Marais Road West, Unit #107 and 6505 Malden Road in LaSalle — are corporately owned. The rest are franchises, including the new one in Tecumseh; 3873 Walker Road, Unit #106; 1226 County Road 22, Unit #103 in Emeryville; 24 Seacliff Drive East in Leamington; 346 St. Clair Street in Chatham and 505 Christina Street North in Sarnia. Learn more about this successful business operation at: Oven360.com.

Construction is expected to begin this spring on two new 71 unit apartment buildings, recently approved by Tecumseh Town Council for the intersection of Tecumseh Road East and Southfield Drive. Guelph-based Skyline Real Estate Holdings (SkyDev.ca) is developing the properties at 11873 Tecumseh Road East and 11917 Tecumseh Road East. The “Southfield Green” project includes amenities such as trails, green space, outdoor barbecue areas and more.

The project qualified for a $100,000 rebate under the town’s Development Charges Rebate Program.

There will be access to the apartment buildings from both Tecumseh Road and Southfield.

Occupancy is slated for 2022.

Elsewhere on the dining scene, Cocktail Fruittela, a new shop featuring fruit cocktails, gelato, waffles, crepes, milk shakes, fresh fruit slices and Lebanese-based ice cream treats, is scheduled to open in mid-March at 3041 Dougall Avenue in Windsor. “It’s all non-alcoholic and fresh,” explains owner Nabil Naja. “There’s nothing like it in Windsor right now and I think people are going to like the fresh fruit and ice cream choices.” Naja, who was born in Lebanon, hopes to bring the flavours of his home country to Windsor with this venture. “It’s the first of its kind and I’m very excited about the opening,” he adds. The restaurant is currently being renovated in preparation for opening. Find their page on Facebook by searching “Cocktail Fruittela.”

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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Essex-Windsor EMS . . .

One Vital Regiment Of Our Frontline Warriors

By Joe McParland

Chief Bruce Krauter of Essex-Windsor EMS stands at the ready as Shawn Arrand, Paramedic/Vulnerable Patient Navigator (shown in the background) is just moments away from going on call! Photo by Rod Denis.

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n a frigid and blustery mid-February afternoon, I had a ZOOM “Cup of Joe” chat with Bruce Krauter, Chief of Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

We discussed what the past 12 months has been like for his workforce dealing with COVID-19.

Krauter, a Windsor native and now a Leamington resident, began his career in paramedicine with Windsor Provincial Ambulance in 1983 and has worked his way through the ranks before being appointed Chief of Essex-Windsor EMS in July 2014.

He oversees our ambulance service and pre-hospital emergency medical care to nearly 400,000 residents of Essex County, Windsor and Pelee Island, providing 24/7 coverage, 365 days of the year.

In addition to a management cadre, administration, and support staff, he employs close to 300 college-trained women and men as paramedics. They work out of 12 stations throughout Windsor and Essex County (and Pelee Island) travelling

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each year more than 2,250,000 km in an 1,852 square kilometre area. This works out to about 404,000 on-road paramedic hours.

After assuring me he was not around for the Spanish Flu 1918 influenza pandemic, Krauter admits he is no stranger to epidemics.

Since the year 2000 he has worked through Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV-1) in 2003; the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in 2013 and the Ebola Virus Disease in 2014.

However, he is quick to add, “None of them compared to COVID-19 because these three epidemics were all localized and had almost no effect in the Windsor and Essex region. SARS, for example, primarily affected the GTA.” At the time of writing this article (mid-February) only eight paramedics in his workforce have tested positive for COVID-19, since it appeared in our area.

None of the cases have been occupational.

Through no fault of their own, the eight were victims of community spread, as so many BIZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 1

other innocent victims in the community have been. They all have recovered and are healthy and have returned to the workforce.

Krauter proudly states, “The fact that there has been no occupational related transmission of COVID-19 to our staff speaks highly of the tools they have been provided — the masks, the PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), training and instruction, supervision, but most importantly to the staff’s dedication to putting on that PPE for every call on every shift and ensuring deep cleaning of their equipment and vehicle after every call so they are then available to respond to further calls.”

Additionally, there has been no evidence of any patient infection related to the transmission of the virus by staff, EMS equipment, or transport vehicles.

This is truly remarkable for a global virus known for its transmissibility.

The frontline paramedics’ PPE consists of different layers depending on the nature of the call they are responding to.

For the run of the mill call their PPE is surgical masks and eye protection.

A second layer of PPE is worn if COVID-19 infection is suspected, in which case the paramedics wear goggles or glasses and a gown, and a P100 mask — a form-fitted hard rubber mask with filters on the side, which filters out 99.95 % of particulate matter.

Finally, for resuscitative calls, where procedures will produce aerosolized droplets, they wear a full Tyvek Protective Suit, complete with gloves and goggles — like HazMat suits.

When paramedics arrive with patients at Windsor Regional Hospital Ouellette and Met campuses, or at Erie Shores HealthCare in Leamington, there are 75-foot trailers on the property rented

by Essex-Windsor EMS for their doffing (removal of PPE) and donning (putting on PPE) protocols.

It is interesting to note that several non-medical staff members have been hired in the past year, by Essex-Windsor EMS, to assist the paramedics with their doffing procedures. This includes the disposal of their PPE, the deep cleaning of the equipment and vehicles with ionized sprayers to disinfect all surfaces.

As Krauter expresses: “These Doffing Assistants are doing a fantastic job.”

Assisting paramedics with the daily stress and traumas of occupational events, is the EMS Peer Support Team, which has rendered enormous benefit to their workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Essex-Windsor EMS website (CountyOfEssex.ca/en/emergencyservices/ambulance-and-paramedics.aspx),

“The program was launched in 2015 when about 10 paramedics volunteered for a four day training program led by Psychologist Dr. Lori Gray, who still provides support to the team. The program got a boost in 2017 when the Bell ‘Let’s Talk Community Fund’ grant donated $20,000. The team has grown to 21 trained volunteers and is looking to expand again.”

Krauter has been a big proponent and booster of this program.

Frontline Resilience (see website: FrontlineResilience.ca) is the external provider that trained the paramedic peer volunteers. They now handle several calls per month from their colleagues and offer support and guidance to paramedics struggling with occupational stress and trauma.

In June 2020, during the extended lockdown, causal “check in” calls began to be placed monthly by team members to their colleagues. This gave way to organic ZOOM night sessions and other platforms where paramedics could talk openly and honestly about dealing with COVID-19.

Krauter identifies one of the most persistent and difficult stressors paramedics face — the bogus claims circulated on social media platforms that this virus is a made-up farce and not real.

Then paramedics observed persons protesting the wearing of masks, or callously violating health guidelines and restrictions.

All this happening while death and serious illness stare the paramedics squarely in the face, each day.

During the past 12 months, paramedics test swabbed more than 15,000 residents in long term care facilities, as well as at 12 external testing sites like the Silver City parking lot on Walker Road — and continue to do so. They assist in testing at the Isolation Centre for Agri Food Workers, as well as at facilities like The Downtown Mission of Windsor where so many vulnerable people need assistance. And Krauter, as part of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit Vaccination Task Force, has his workforce available and at the ready for administering vaccinations as they become available.

Calls for EMS service fell from 64,500 in 2019 to 60,600 in 2020. The lockdowns and restrictions likely account for the decrease of service requests.

While opioid overdose calls decreased early in the pandemic, possibly due to the restricting of prescriptions to 30 days, they have since spiked upwards in response to COVID-19 fatigue, isolation, and other associated mental health issues, which also continue to rise.

On behalf of Biz X magazine and all our readers, I want to thank and congratulate Chief Krauter and everyone at Essex-Windsor EMS for their professional and selfless dedication to our community.

I am concluding my column now by allowing Chief Krauter to directly address his workforce . . .

“I could not be prouder of our entire EMS staff — paramedics, management, administration and support staff — in terms of how they have stepped up to the plate and responded to COVID-19 from March 2020 up to the present time. I'm beyond words to say how proud I am of how the entire workforce has been an important piece in this puzzle of responding to the COVID-19 experience. I have never experienced a situation like this that has lasted this long — and likely will continue for another year or more — before we get back to whatever the new normal will look like. What Essex-Windsor EMS has done day in and day out is nothing less than amazing. We now have actually gone through all four seasons and are entering into a new one; it’s beyond words how I can express my thanks, my gratitude and my pride on how they have performed.”

A heartfelt

to our EMS heroes for your dedication in keeping us healthy and safe.

eshfoundation.ca | 519-326-2373

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH THE RUNDOWN “Tech Week YQG 2021” is set to return digitally this year, March 22 to 28, offering a collaborative series of events spearheaded

by WEtech Alliance in partnership with the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation that brings together tech leaders, founders, talent, researchers, investors, and the broader community. Questions on the schedule?

Find your answers at: TechWeekYQG.com.

After three years working in the shadows, Jack Eisenberg, Owner of Safe and Secure Computing and JEM Software, is assisting local restaurants into the light through his current app campaign. Eisenberg recommends a non-branded alternative to commissionbased apps. According to the app’s creator, “It is installed in over 23,000 restaurants worldwide, including 22 locally.” The basic version includes a menu builder, pickup, delivery, dine-in and reservation scheduler, delivery zone mapping, multiple payment methods, integration with your website and Facebook account, and even a downloadable mobile app, all for free! You own your customer’s contact information for marketing and analytics and can add an unlimited “promo creator” tool or a prepayment module for a small monthly fee. He can create your account and provide consulting assistance for those do-it-yourself types. And if you’re too busy to do it yourself, Eisenberg offers his services at an hourly rate to create and maintain the menu for you. As well, he can get you online in under a week, even if you don’t currently have a website! Join satisfied clients such as Jade Chinese Cuisine, Blue Sky Garden, East Side Shawarma, Pho Mango, MJ’s Pizza and others, by emailing: info@jem-software.com.

MARDA Management Inc. has recently acquired Huron Shores Property Management, which specializes in managing condominium complexes across Southwestern Ontario from Windsor to London. MARDA is owned and operated by Marla Coffin, President and CEO, along with her husband, Dale Coffin, Vice-President and CFO. The Huron Shores Property Management team is led by William (Bill) Norris who has moved to their new location at 1010 University Avenue West in Windsor. Marla states: “Our team is proud to have Huron Shores Property Management join us at our office’s headquarters in downtown Windsor. Their team brings over 20 years of experience to the organization and a new business to the downtown region, which will build on our revitalization efforts throughout Windsor.” The acquisition of Huron

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Shores Property Management allows MARDA Management to enter into a new partnership as MARDA is a growing business with 45 staff members that are available to help further support Huron Shores Property Management.

MARDA currently manages over 1,700 units across Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent, which include multi-family and single-family accommodations, as well as commercial properties throughout the community. Find out more at: MardaManagement.com.

Angelstar Digital, 1554 McDougall Street in Windsor, is now equipped with a brand new, industry-leading 126-inch HP1500 Latex digital printer, making it an unprecedented powerhouse in the signage, printing and graphics business in the area. With this new piece of equipment, Owner Lou DeBellis and his team can produce up to 126” inch width prints. This new competitive edge allows them to increase their production capacity by over 100%, while improving quality and speed of service. For a list of their services log on to: AngelstarDigital.com.

ON THE MOVE At the end of February 2021 The Mental Health and Addictions Urgent Care Centre (MHAUCC) relocated to Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare’s (HDGH) Crisis and Mental Wellness Centre (in the TSC building) at 744 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor. The centre operates Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Crisis and Mental Wellness Centre provides outpatient mental health and addiction services. Crisis walk-in services are available Monday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. where the team can make direct linkages to the MHAUCC services if required. The 24/7 Crisis Line at 519-973-4435 is also available for callers to speak with a mental health professional. An urgent mental health concern can look like depression, anxiety, thoughts of suicide or harming oneself, overwhelming stress, addictions, and other situations that cause a person to be in crisis. Mental Health and Addictions Urgent Care Centre services include: Brief Psychotherapy and Psychosocial Support; Urgent Psychiatric Assessment and Consultation; Medical Assessment and Monitoring; Connection to community-based services and Addiction Management Services.

Visit: HDGH.org/mhaucc for more information.

Ontario Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney has named Sophia Chisholm, CPA, CA, as her appointment BIZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 1

to the Windsor Port Authority’s Board of Directors (PortWindsor.com). A professional accountant and human resources executive, Chisholm brings financial expertise and community leadership to the Board. She is currently the Senior Vice-President, Finance at Windsor Family Credit Union where she has oversight of the credit union’s financial operations. Prior to her current position, she worked in Corporate Controllership at General Motors Detroit and as Chief Financial Officer and HR Director at Rose City Ford, for more than a decade. In her early career she worked at Deloitte & Touche LLP and Tregaskiss Ltd. She also volunteers for numerous non-profit organizations and events throughout the community, in both a personal and professional philanthropic capacity.

Senior Investment Advisor Brian Martyn has relocated his Windsor office of Lighthouse Investment Services, part of Raymond James Ltd., to 5980 Tecumseh Road East, just west of Jefferson, as of February 1, 2021 from a former Temple Drive address. The phone numbers remain unchanged. Serving the area since 1995, this is a full service brokerage firm helping investors make wise decisions for their Canadian (trading, RRSP and TFSA accts) and U.S. accounts (Individual Retirement Accounts) if applicable. They are cross-border licensed and able to provide DFA (Dimensional Fund Advisors) products too, right here in Windsor.

“Our new space provides us more room and the ability to expand further as we grow our U.S. retirement — cross border account business,” Martyn states and also mentions, “We retain our free parking and easy access off one of Windsor’s busiest throughfares.” Meet their team online at: RaymondJames.ca/brianmartyn.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO . . .

WEtech Alliance is celebrating 10 years serving the region’s tech community, as of February 11, 2021. Over the last decade, they’ve helped entrepreneurs find their first desk, their first customer, their first investor, their first international market and even their first employee. To celebrate this birthday they’ve taken a trip down memory lane to reflect on the accomplishments, milestones and victories of our regional tech community.

Check out: WEtech-Alliance.com/milestones to see the people who have played a pivotal role in helping shape what the organization is today. Congrats to everyone at WEtech from your friends at Biz X magazine!

THE WAY IT WAS

When The Front . . .

Came Home

By Andrea Grimes

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uoting Sir Robert Borden, “The world has drifted far from its old anchorage and no man can with certainty prophesy what the outcome will be.”

The Great War brought Canada into the world stage. Some of our young lads from the farms and factories of Essex County were heard to say “Join up, beats having to marry that girl down the road and besides, it will be over by Christmas.”

When going over the top and into the wire, some of our lads became battle-hardened Veterans realizing all too soon that war was indeed hell!

Battles lost — victories gained — and those horrific causalities our soldiers experienced were the results of the residual effects of artillery barrage, bayonet wounds and mustard gas burns. Wounds to the extremities were so severe that thousands of soldiers had to have limbs amputated.

As traumatic as it was, amputation saved the lives of many men as it often prevented infection caused by gangrene that festered in gunshot and shrapnel wounds.

Some of our lads, no longer “combat-ready”, were coming home torn inside out from the stains and strains of war. It took everything they had to adapt to their new reality as amputees, wondering — would dealing with this be worse than dodging bullets or sitting in rat-infested trenches filled with sewage?

For some Veterans, reclaiming a sense of purpose was more than just having the right attitude, as some viewed the return to civilian life with trepidation. Men who lost a leg or an arm had to take on a new identity struggling with more than just physical limitations.

They thought to themselves: “How am I going to get through this being reminded that I am half a man of no use to anyone”?

As amputees, thousands of men struggled emotionally for the rest of their lives, existing in the public eye as permanent visual reminders of the inhumanities of war. Now it would be the “all hands to the wheel” approach to recover a measure of functionality with self-respect.

In laying the foundation for post-war recovery, a group of forward-thinking Canadian war amputees established The War Amps (view: WarAmps.ca) on September 23, 1918.

Pictured is the late WWII Veteran, Major Fred Albert (F.A.) Tilston who served with The Essex Scottish Regiment.

Photo courtesy of Library and Archives Canada, P3684.

The organization built exclusive resources to provide “duty of care” accommodations for our returning amputee Veterans making the transition from soldiers to civilians.

“Our organization has successfully adapted to changing the attitudes of how society perceives amputees,” indicates Rob Larman, Director of The War Amps “PLAYSAFE” and “DRIVESAFE” Programs, based in the Key Tag Service office in Scarborough. “Over the years, our diverse membership (including Veterans) has advocated for one another, helping them to reach their full potential by focusing on the positive.”

easter seals

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The War Amps Key Tag Service celebrated its 75th anniversary January, 2021. Since amputee Veterans started the Key Tag Service in 1946, The War Amps have returned more than 1.5 million set of lost keys to their owners.

“One such Veteran was Major F.A. Tilston who, in 1945, established his post-military career in the capacity as a Civilian Liaison Coordinator. He took immense pride in being instrumental in developing our ‘Child Amputee Program’ (CHAMP) and was involved in The War Amps Southwestern Ontario branch located in London, Ontario.”

For courage displayed under enemy fire at the “Battle of the Hochwald” (refer to: EKScot. org/history-galleries/concise-history), Tilston was presented the “Victoria Cross”, the highest and most prestigious medal for conspicuous gallantry that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. In 1994, the Major F.A. Tilston Armoury and Windsor Police Training Centre was named in honour of WWII Veteran Major F.A. Tilston, VC, of The Essex Scottish Regiment.

In April 1957, Tilston became President and CEO of Sterling Drug Company, 1019 Elliott Street West in Windsor and later directed the company’s move to Aurora, Ontario in 1958.

With a keen sense of dedication and pride, Tilston continued his support of The War Amps until his death in 1992.

In speaking to a tradition of duty and service, there are opportunities to respect how the values of integrity and courage foster a commitment to defending our Canadian values of democracy.

For all the right reasons, our Veterans own this privilege.

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 the 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.

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Syd’s Sandwich Co., 559 Pelissier Street, Windsor

By David Clark

Photos courtesy of Kara Kristof

A

new and welcoming business in downtown Windsor, Syd’s Sandwich Co., has been purveying its best offerings successfully, since opening its doors in October 2020.

With its predecessors, Elias Deli and Malic’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, now closed, we may be missing that deli comfort food source when it comes to sandwiches, especially Corned Beef.

This is one big reason why they keep coming through the door, quite simply the Corned Beef.

Enter Syd’s — “Windsor’s Newest Home of the Corned Beef Sandwich” — a real treat waiting for you and your hefty appetite. That beef sandwich you crave is stacked high, sliced thin, steamed, and loaded with Swiss cheese and mustard on toasted rye bread.

This restaurant is carving out a solid reputation as the sandwich nook you need to frequent when you crave that familiar taste between two rye slices. It’s a rock star!

According to an up-and-coming millennial, Sydney (a.k.a. Syd) Filiault, Owner/Operator of Syd’s: “We are a family run business where all our food is homemade on site and locally sourced. We provide a healthier take on comfort food. We are proud to shop locally for the freshest possible food around.”

Most of Syd’s produce comes from Leamington and a few suppliers in the city, including: Steimar Bread, Galati Cheese and Brenner Packers Ltd., who help to

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keep the meals heading out the door to happy customers.

Now on to the important stuff, Syd’s popular sandwiches give it to you deli-style and stacked. Of course, as mentioned, the favourite is the Corned Beef on rye as is the Reuben with a healthy portion of sauerkraut.

The tangy Pulled Pork is hand-rubbed and slow-cooked served with creamy carrot/ cabbage slaw on a fresh brioche bun with lots of exotic flavours.

“The Corned Beet is our vegetarian take on the Corned Beef,” expresses Filiault. “It is loaded with beets, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and other mouth-watering ingredients.”

For that tender fillet, there is the Grilled Chicken with Syd’s sauce, basted and grilled.

“We make different soups every day,” says Filiault. “Check the website: SydsSandwichCo.com for something new and exciting.”

You will find soup you have never heard of and the familiar favourite Chicken Dumpling, and others, ranging from the French Onion to Sweet Potato Basil.

The juicy and loaded Pulled Pork is yet another ultimate comfort food at Syd’s.

The specials at Syd’s are plentiful and deliver a lot of value for your dollar. Look into the Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese topped with optional pulled pork. The taste is off the charts!

“We make many different quiches ranging from Spinach to Chili and Cheddar,”

Filiault adds. “All are good choices to keep you going on a cold winter day.”

Some of the healthiest choices on the menu include the Stuffed Pepper Soup and the daily soup of the day. All recipes are low in sodium.

The healthy sandwich selections are the Veggie, Grilled Chicken and Tuna. Syd’s also offers Gluten Free and Vegan varieties on the menu.

Coming from her partner’s mom, dig into the flavoured Cheesecake Jar. And you can also find lots of beverages available, many local, including Soda Pop Bros. and Gord’s Kombucha. Syd’s Lemonade is always a great choice too.

Syd’s offers takeout, delivery, and walkins are always welcome.

Customers can order by phone or online with curbside pickup too. For delivery, orders can be placed on: SydsSandwichCo.com or through Jubzi.com.

A charitable activity, “Jubzi gives a five percent donation from every order to The Downtown Mission of Windsor, something we care deeply about,” Filiault comments.

For Filiault and her family they believe their love language is food.

“My family and I have been talking about a sandwich shop with Corned Beef on the menu for a very long time,” explains Filiault.

“My significant other, Mitchell Demarse was the one who found the physical location for Syd’s, showing us the potential and shared the opportunity with my family and myself.”

As you have read she definitely has an entrepreneurial mindset and is a proud Alumnus of the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor.

Aesthetically pleasing, the Stuffed Pepper Soup is warm and cozy, a top winter retreat available for takeout.

As for the future, depending on COVID-19 restrictions, Filiault is working on a catering menu that will include items from the main menu and more. For now, she will continue to build the business with daily specials and upgrades to the menu greeting all who enter the shop with great sandwiches and a smile.

For further information regarding menu items check the website listed in this article earlier or go to: Facebook.com/SydsDeli.

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COVER STORY By Dave Hall

Federal And Provincial Governments Lend A Helping Hand To Businesses Critical financial support for those hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to help companies continue operations, protect jobs, cover costs and play a role in our economic recovery usinesses of all sizes and in all sectors across the Windsor Essex region have been severely affected financially by the year-old COVID-19 global pandemic.

But, there is relief available under a variety of programs funded by the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada.

Rakesh Naidu, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, says the various government financial grants and programs have been helpful, but can’t fully replace lost revenues.

“Margins are so razor-thin in many businesses that if you take away 10 to 15% of the revenue, then businesses owners end up dipping into savings or taking out loans to pay their bills,” Naidu comments.

“It became a cash flow deficit very early on in the pandemic so wage subsidies and business account loans were essential to help businesses stay afloat.”

According to Naidu, a recent survey conducted by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce estimates that one in six businesses will not survive the pandemic and will close permanently.

“I fear it could be worse,” he adds.

“Locally, in addition to the lockdown and closures, we’re also dealing with the impact of the border closure for the past 12 months and that has had an impact on local businesses as well.”

The provincial government’s financial commitment to help businesses survive during an unprecedented world-wide health crisis, includes $1.4 billion to launch the Ontario Small Business Support Grant to help small businesses that are required to close or significantly restrict services under the province-wide shutdown, with grants starting at $10,000 and up to $20,000.

The Ontario government has also committed $869 million in additional investments for the hospital sector for supplies and equipment to address the surge in COVID-19 cases, including testing, swabs, saliva tubes and test kits, bringing the total increase in funding to hospitals since 2019-20 to $3.4 billion.

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© Can Stock Photo/gina_sanders

B

There’s no doubt, it’s been a challenging year for business owners. However, there is a ray of hope with all the government relief programs available so entrepreneurs can make it through to a more stable period.

Our quick rundown now of what you can apply for online may have you waving your hands in the air with joy!

There’s also $609 million to support the procurement of additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), critical supplies, equipment and continued support for essential supply chain operations; $398 million in additional support to respond to the impact of COVID-19 in the long-term care sector and $235 million in additional supports to protect children and staff in childcare and early years settings.

In addition, the federal government had spent $240 billion by early December BIZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 1

on more than 100 new and existing programs and measures to help individuals, businesses, organizations and government entities survive the pandemic.

“I dread to think what it would have been like without these programs,” Naidu expresses.

Biz X magazine reached out to a number of experts in a variety of sectors to help area businesses understand what is available to help them survive and come out the other end of the pandemic still standing.

Subhead banners: © Can Stock Photo/Kurhan

Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program Through this program (HASCAP), the Business Development Bank of Canada is working with participating Canadian financial institutions to offer governmentguaranteed low-interest loans up to $1 million.

Severely affected businesses (for example, a chain of hotels or restaurants with multiple locations under one entity) could be eligible for up to $6.25 million. Applications opened February 1, 2021.

Craig Hoover, Senior Manager in R&D and government incentives practice at Baker Tilly Windsor LLP. Photo courtesy of Baker Tilly.

“My gut feeling is there will be lots of stimulus from the government to spur economic growth and we have the expertise to help our clients access these funds,” says Craig Hoover, a Senior Manager at Baker Tilly Windsor LLP. HASCAP will also help businesses with their day-to-day operating costs during the COVID-19 crisis, allowing them to invest in their long-term prosperity.

The program is available to businesses across Canada in all sectors that have been hit hard by the pandemic. This includes restaurants, businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors and those that rely on in-person services.

To be eligible, a business needs to show year-over-year revenue decline of at least 50% in three months, within eight months prior to their application.

Companies must also be able to show their

financial institutions they have previously applied for either the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy or the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy.

Source: Craig Hoover, Baker Tilly Windsor LLP (BakerTilly.ca).

Ontario Small Business Support Grant Many small businesses are struggling right now due to the government restrictions imposed to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Ontario has introduced several programs to help these businesses through this tough time. The Ontario Small Business Support Grant is one of these programs and was introduced in January 2021.

The grant is intended to help small businesses with the impact of the provincewide shutdown that came into effect on December 26, 2020.

If you are a qualifying small business that was required to close or significantly restrict services because of the shutdown, you can receive between $10,000 and $20,000 of grant money from the Ontario government.

To be eligible, businesses must have less than 100 employees and must have had a decrease in revenues of at least 20% when comparing the month of April 2020 to April 2019. The government decided to use April as the basis because similar shutdown restrictions were in effect at that time and it feels that the impact of the latest shutdown would likely be similar.

There are also provisions for new businesses established after April 2019.

Applications for this and other programs may be completed using the links provided on the Ontario government website: Ontario.ca.

Source: Jennifer Hunt, Chapman, Sanger & Associates LLP., Chartered Professional Accountants (LSCA.ca).

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Regional Relief and Recovery Fund The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) provides financial assistance to businesses and social support organizations that are unable to meet eligibility criteria for other assistance programs. The fund provides interest-free loans to help support fixed operating expenses in situations where revenues have decreased due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The goal of the fund is to provide support to enable businesses to continue operations and keep paying their employees. The RRRF can help close the remaining financial gap that many local businesses and other organizations experience from other federal relief measures, by providing additional support.

The RRRF was recently updated for southern Ontario, through FedDev Ontario, to include increased contribution and non-repayable (grant) amounts. RRRF conditionally-repayable loans have now increased from $40,000 to $60,000.

Repayment forgiveness is based on repayment of the loan portion prior to December 31, 2022. If eligible, the amount of repayment forgiveness is 25% on the first $40,000, plus 50% on amounts between $40,000 and $60,000. RRRF interest-free loans may provide up to $1 million and can significantly reduce financial pressures because no payments are required until January 1, 2023.

To qualify, applicants must be a Canadian or provincially incorporated business, co-operative or Indigenous-owned business located in southern Ontario with 1 to 499 employees. Economic development organizations and social development organizations engaging in commercial activities are also eligible.

A requirement of the fund is that the business is expected to have already applied to other relief measures for which they are eligible, including CEBA (Canada Emergency Business Account). The RRRF will consider eligible

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Adrian Visekruna, a Senior Manager at KPMG specializes in R&D and Government Incentives programs.

Photo courtesy of Sooters Photography Studio.

costs not covered by these other programs.

The fund provides support for costs such as payments for existing equipment and machinery, salaries and benefits, and operating expenses such as utilities and rent. RRRF support is meant to be complementary to other COVID-19 relief measures and will therefore not duplicate any support provided by other government sources.

Ineligible costs are those which are not directly related to the business’ fixed operating expenses, such as mortgage payments, refinancing, new capital expenditures or land acquisitions.

Applications can be submitted up to March 31, 2021; however, applications will be reviewed as they are received until the fund has been fully committed. For more information, visit: FedDevOntario.gc.ca.

Source: Adrian Visekruna, KPMG LLP (KPMG.ca).

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Canada Emergency Business Account The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is an interest-free loan provided by the government to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A portion of this loan is considered forgivable provided the loan is paid back by the deadline.

This of course is subject to conditions set by the Government of Canada.

Further information can be found by logging on to: Ceba-Cuec.ca.

Businesses could originally apply to receive a CEBA loan of up to $40,000. The federal government has since authorized an expansion of an additional $20,000 for qualified businesses. The deadline to apply for a CEBA loan of $60,000 or the $20,000 expansion is March 31, 2021. Up to 33% of the CEBA loan amount is forgivable.

Let us assume for arguments sake your business received a CEBA loan in the amount of $40,000. The forgivable amount for that loan would be $10,000 provided of course that the remaining $30,000 is repaid in the time frame that has been set by the government.

The forgivable amount of the CEBA loan, even though it may be forgiven at some time

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in the future, is still taxable in the year that the loan was received.

For instance, your business has received a $40,000 CEBA loan in 2020. Your deadline for repayment of that loan is some time in 2022. That $10,000 forgivable amount must be claimed as income on your 2020 tax return assuming you have a December 2020 year-end.

Chandra Sekhar Kancheti, Managing Partner at Maurice Morneau Tax. Photo courtesy of Vikas Vattikonda.

There is an election that, if filed in 2020, will provide for a deferment. The business that received the loan must reduce their nondeferrable expenses by $10,000 in 2020.

Essentially, by doing this, the business would eliminate the income inclusion in 2020 for the amount of the loan that is considered forgivable.

Should a CEBA loan recipient fail to repay the loan by the deadline that has been set, then there may be no portion of the loan that would be forgivable.

For example, you have received a $40,000 CEBA loan with a repayment date of December 31, 2022. By the repayment date, you will be required to pay $30,000 with the extra $10,000 being forgivable. If you have not repaid the $30,000 by December 21, 2022 then the $10,000 would no longer be forgiven. The full amount of $40,000 would be due.

If the CEBA loan is deemed unforgivable, the recipient of the loan can claim a deduction for the previously included income on their taxes in the year that the CEBA loan is repaid.

Source: Chandra Sekhar Kancheti, Managing Partner, Maurice Morneau Tax (MauriceMorneauTax.com).

Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy The federal government has extended the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) to June 30, 2021. At the time of writing, in midFebruary, only details for claim periods up to March 13, 2021 have been announced.

The program has changed significantly since it was first rolled out by the federal government, back in March of last year.

Originally, certain employers (taxable corporations and trusts, individuals, registered

charities, non-profit organizations and certain partnerships) were required to have experienced a decrease in certain qualifying revenues of 15% in March 2020 and 30% in each period after that, until rules changes came into effect in July.

Qualifying revenues generally include sales or other inflows of cash that arise from an employer’s normal business activities in Canada for a given period.

The decrease in revenue was, and still is, determined by comparing monthly revenue either on a year-over-year basis (April 2020 to April 2019) or to the average qualifying revenue for the months of January and February 2020 (April 2020 to average January and February 2020).

If the eligible employer experienced the required revenue drop, they would qualify for a subsidy equal to 75% of their qualifying wages.

Effective July 5 the 30% revenue reduction rule went away and going forward an employer would simply have to experience a drop in revenue that was greater than 0% for a given period.

However, the rules to determine the subsidy rate also changed and would now be tied to the actual revenue decrease as opposed to the fixed 75% rate available previously.

A “safe harbour” rule was also introduced to ensure employers would be provided the

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most favourable result through the transition period. Meaning that, if under the new rules the subsidy rate was less than what they had received previously, they could continue to use the old rules through to the end of August.

As well, the subsidy rate is now made up of a base wage component and, for those employers hardest hit by the pandemic, a “topup” component.

The maximum subsidy rate available under the new rules, was initially increased to 85% if an employer qualified for the top-up.

For the period December 20, 2020 to March 13, 2021, the wage subsidy has again been modified so that the maximum top-up percentage has been increased to 35% from 25% for a maximum subsidy rate of 75%.

Find further details on: Canada.ca/en/ revenue-agency/services/subsidy/emergencywage-subsidy.html.

Source: Michael Piccolo, Roma & Associates Professional Corporation (RomaAndAssociates.vpweb.ca).

Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) provides financial assistance for

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eligible fixed property expenses, including rent and interest on commercial mortgages until June 2021. CERS replaces the previous Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) program that expired on September 26, 2020. CERS is paid directly to the retailer and is proportional to revenue reduction.

The maximum “base rate” subsidy of 65% is reached at a revenue reduction of 70% or more and is proportionately reduced to 40% assistance at 50% revenue reduction. Hence, each percentage point of revenue reduction between 50% and 70%, generates 1.25% assistance on eligible rental expenses.

The rate of assistance drops to 0.8% on each point of revenue reduction between 0% and 50%.

Expenses eligible for the CERS subsidy include, commercial rent, property taxes (including school taxes and municipal taxes), property insurance, and interest on commercial mortgages.

The sales tax component on these expenses (most typically on the insurance portion) are not eligible expenses. This would be true for lease agreements entered into before October 9, 2020 (and lease agreements that are continued thereafter).

Eligible expenses for any given location are $75,000 per qualifying period with maximum eligible expenses of $300,000 for affiliated entities per qualifying period.

Any size of company will qualify for some assistance (presuming revenue reduction) and larger/more expensive locations are not excluded as was the case for CECRA. These changes help address two of the retail industry’s primary issues with the previous CECRA program. Reference periods are the same as those for CEWS. The applicable rate of assistance will be determined by the change in an eligible entity’s monthly revenues, year-over-year, for the applicable calendar month. For example, November 2020 compared to November 2019.

Alternatively, an entity can choose to calculate its revenue decline by comparing its current reference month revenues with the average of its January and February 2020 revenues.

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Once you have chosen between these two options, you must use that method consistently for the three periods covered by these rules, i.e., until December 19, 2020 and do so for both CERS and CEWS (if you are also claiming CEWS).

As with CEWS, you have the option, in any qualifying period, to use either the current month’s revenues or the previous month’s revenues as the basis for the CERS application.

In essence this is a “better of” outcome for retailers and ensures at least two consecutive months of assistance at the same level.

For more information, visit: Canada.ca and follow the links.

Source: Retail Council of Canada (RetailCouncil.org).

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program The Province of Ontario is providing $9 million to help residential customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills as a result of COVID-19.

The province is also providing $8 million to support small businesses and charitable organizations who are struggling to pay their energy bills as a result of COVID-19.

Residential consumers may be eligible for up to $750 in support towards their electricity and natural gas bills under the CEAP program, while small business owners may be eligible for up to $1,500 under CEAP-SB. Both are one-time on-bill credits for eligible customers.

“Residential customers with overdue balances will likely qualify, as will small businesses with similar overdue balances,” says Robert Spagnuolo, Director of Customer Service for EnWin. “Available amounts would cover overdue balances up to those specified limits.”

Applications generally take 10 days to process, explains Spagnuolo.

“We are actively encouraging our small

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businesses, charitable organizations and residential customers who need help, to visit our website and fill out an application form,” he adds. “These programs are only available while funds last so customers should act now.”

Starting in January 2021, available credit amounts increased and more businesses became eligible to access funding.

Contact your utility at: EnWin.com or UnionGas.com to find out how to apply.

More information is also available from the Ontario Energy Board at: OEB.ca.

Source: Province of Ontario and EnWin Utilities.

Federal Lockdown Support Lockdown Support is extra rent assistance offered to businesses that are subject to a lockdown under a public health order, and it is part of the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) program.

A top-up CERS subsidy of 25% will be available for retailers who are temporarily shut down or “significantly limited” by a mandatory public health order. The trigger for this subsidy will be a public health order issued by a federal, provincial or territorial government, or by a municipality or regional health authority.

The top-up subsidy, also referred to as Lockdown Support, is retroactive to September 27, 2020 and eligibility will continue until June 2021. The rules below were in place until December 19, 2020.

Details for the top-up subsidy between December 20, 2020 and June 2021 will presumably be forthcoming toward the end of this year.

The public health order must stipulate the cessation of some type or types of activity at the location (you cannot self-select in this regard) and the cessation must last for at least one week. Moreover, if a complete shutdown

PPE, Property Tax and Energy Cost Rebate Grants The Ontario government is expanding the number of small businesses that can apply for the Main Street Relief Grant to help offset the costs of purchasing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to cautiously and gradually reopen in parts of the province.

Small businesses with two to 19 employees in all eligible sectors — expanded from two to nine employees — including those in the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector, can now apply for up to $1,000 in financial support.

This one-time grant reimburses main street businesses for up to $1,000 in PPE costs incurred since March 17, 2020. Eligible businesses for the Main Street Relief Grant now include those with two to 19 employees in the following sectors — retail trade; accommodation and food services; repair and maintenance; personal and laundry services; gyms and yoga studios; and arts, entertainment, and recreation.

The grant can be used to help cover the costs of a variety of PPE, including installing plexiglass or purchasing gloves and masks.

Eligible businesses can apply for this grant and others, including the Ontario Small Business Support Grant and property tax or energy cost

rebates — through a simple online application.

Small business owners can go to the website: Ontario.ca/smallbusiness to learn about the many supports available.

These include resources to find Ontariomade PPE through the Workplace PPE Supplier Directory, tools to build or expand their online presence through Digital Main Street, tailored local support through the Small Business COVID-19 Recovery Network, and free financial advice.

Source: Province of Ontario (Ontario.ca).

On The Road To Recovery

We are at a critical point in the pandemic, economically and health wise.

Though we are at a crossroads and the future cannot be predicted (perhaps more lockdowns?), all in all, there are numerous programs and grants designed to help businesses work their way through the pandemic until the economy returns to a new normal.

They won’t replace everything that’s been lost, but they might provide a glimmer of hope moving forward.

Welcome “KPMG offers deep industry expertise and tremendous resources for me to continue to develop in my career and for my clients to not only survive, but flourish in the future” KPMG in Windsor is proud to welcome our newest KPMG Enterprise Tax Partner, Dan Dwyer. Dan is client-focused and brings practical advice to complex business issues.

Connect with Dan Dwyer T: 519-251-3536 E: danieldwyer@kpmg.ca Linking our know-how and joining forces. © 2021 KPMG LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved. 10911

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© Can Stock Photo/GoodIdeas

is not ordered, it must be a cessation that reduces revenues at that location by at least 25% relative to the relevant pre-pandemic period.

For example, a retail store that is ordered to close down its location in a mall, but continues to provide online sales and curbside pick-up, could qualify, as long as its in-store sales normally accounted for at least 25% of its revenues.

Reductions in hours of operation or imposition of physical distancing rules would not qualify for the top-up.

Locations that are ineligible for the CERS base subsidy (because they have seen no revenue reduction) will not qualify.

To be clear, retailers are not required to be eligible for the maximum base subsidy, just some portion of the base subsidy, in order to qualify for the top-up.

The 25% top-up subsidy means the amount of eligible expenses that will be paid, not 25% of the base subsidy. So, for example, a retailer that has seen a revenue reduction of 40% and had also been subject to a public health order that has “significantly limited” its operations for a month.

For more details refer to: Canada.ca and follow the links.

Source: Retail Council of Canada (RetailCouncil.org).

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ask the experts

Have Supreme Confidence When Dealing With Life’s Unexpected Problems By Dave Halliday

T

he local real estate market is crazy! We all know this.

Those of you out there looking to find a home or have recently purchased one know that you can go in with an offer that is tens of thousands over the asking price and there is no guarantee you will be successful.

Certainly you realize that if you go in with conditions you diminish your chance of being the winning bidder.

So, without the possibility of establishing condition of inspection there are many of us going into six figure investments without peace of mind. How do you know the roof won’t leak? How do you know the basement doesn’t flood? How do you know there isn’t mould or asbestos within those walls?

Unsettling isn’t it?

Fortunately for you there are companies ready to help should you experience a disaster with your home or discover that it has underlying hazardous conditions.

We at Biz X were able to discuss some of the potential issues and solutions with the good people at Supreme Services located at 3202 Walker Road in Windsor and online at: SupremeRestoration.ca.

Steve Asher, General Manger at Supreme Services was kind enough to share his 10 years of personal experience with us.

Supreme Services has been taking care of the needs of local residents for the past 12 years.

What does Supreme Services do? “We are an integrated team of property specialists,” indicates Asher. “We complete restoration, renovation, and employ environmental professionals. From basement water and fire damage to complete renovations,

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Water damage is the most common form of home disaster.

A flood, broken pipe, sewer backup or unattended bathtub can cause severe damage.

Quick action by a certified water technician can help minimize the loss.

we are able to deal with a mould or asbestos problem, make a basement safe and dry — and then our carpenters can complete the full renovation. In essence, we can tackle most any job with our in-house team of restoration and renovation experts.”

What types of hazardous materials are commonly encountered in existing structures? “Besides mould, asbestos and lead our teams are trained in trauma scene cleanup — these are highly sensitive and demand a professional approach and specialized training, in order to keep our team members and our customers safe,” points out Asher. “In the last year we have done extensive COVID contamination cleaning working with commercial clients to make sure their work places are as safe as possible for their customers and staff.”

What signs can an occupant watch for to recognize they have a potential hazardous material issue in their home?

“Mould is often identified on building

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materials that have sustained water damage,” he says. “Often, discolouration on the surface of the materials is the first indication of mould growth; however, mould/damage may be more extensive within a wall cavity.

Generally, you cannot tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it. Before renovating or repairing your home, it is important to contact a professional to help you to identify potential hazards.”

If one suspects there is a hazard present, what are the benefits of contacting professionals such as yourselves? “Most major restoration companies can help customers facing mould or asbestos (or any emergency), but we have made it a high priority to keep our teams trained in these kinds of specialized jobs,” replies Asher. “We like to think that by contacting Supreme Services our customers will have peace of mind that the job has been handled professionally, safely and cost effectively.”

What should one expect from their chosen property restoration professional before they begin work? “Expect to hear back from us or any restoration company very quickly,” he states. “In our case we will set an appointment to review the issue and then provide a full scope solution quickly.

A professional explanation of the services required and a mutual understanding of what will be completed as well as a written, detailed estimate outlining the scope of work, safety precautions, and costs.”

We are guessing you are often interacting with clientele that are going through difficult times. How do you assist them in getting past the events that have them requiring your services? “Communication is the key,” Asher stresses. “We understand that many of our customers have not required the services of a restoration contractor before and feel rushed to make decisions. It is our goal to help the customer understand the restoration process and remove the anxiety. We want our customers to feel confident that calling Supreme was the right decision from day one.”

A qualified professional can assist in eradicating almost any situation a property owner may encounter. Here we see a before and after photo of a block wall foundation issue. Photos courtesy of Supreme Services.

What types of property restorations do you perform? “Fire, water, wind damage mitigation and cleanup, as well as hazardous materials removal such as mould, asbestos, lead, and bio-hazards,” notes Asher. “We also carry out foundation repair and waterproofing, property and facility maintenance, as well as renovations and repairs.”

So, if in these crazy times you find yourself faced with unexpected potential hazards, cleanups, or disasters, rest assured there are professionals close to home who can assess and mitigate whatever issue you may be facing and make it all okay. It’s always a good feeling to know help is available.

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portfolio corner

Investors Get Ready

By Steven Mayo

With the markets doing well over the last six months, many investors wish they had done more buying. Of course, this is human nature. And this is also a sign that it may be time to prepare for a correction.

Markets having corrections is normal.

Long time investors know the following — markets have cycles (both economic and emotional), there are various sectors within the markets to consider at different times, and then there are surprises . . . unexpected events. I’ve seen many in my 36 year career.

There is always plenty to consider when investing, but being prepared for the next opportunity is what all investors have the ability to do.

Doing your research is important.

Understanding each company you are considering adding to your portfolio is a good place to start.

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A research report is much more than numbers, and can be quite revealing about a company, its industry, and its ability to improve earnings. Research Analysts evaluate business models, market share opportunity, future growth prospects, management and ESG (environmental, social, and governance). All of these variables often lead to conclusions on how well a company is managed and its future prospects.

Detailed research helps investors get a clear picture on long-term shareholder value creation. For example, railroad stocks within the Industrials Sector, are consistent long-term performers, but often have 10%+ corrections. This is a sub-sector to consider when that happens.

It’s also important to not just look at the stocks that are in the news daily, as these names may not be at the best prices at which

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to make a purchase. Many of these names are well known and are recent winners.

Consider names that are suitable for your portfolio, have less price risk, and possibly more reward potential in the months ahead. Research on sectors such as Health Care, Utilities, Consumer Staples, and Telecommunications is worth reviewing.

At this point, I believe any market correction will be a temporary pause, likely followed by a return to upward momentum.

It is clear that many good companies came out of 2020 stronger and more streamlined, which does help their future prospects.

I suggest you do your homework now.

In today’s low interest rate environment taking advantage of market corrections is still the right move and being prepared for buying opportunities is often what separates successful investors from those that “freeze” at key market moments.

As always I’ll sign off with a quote relevant to the article: “Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.” — Bobby Unser 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.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN Story And Photo By Julianna Bonnett

Jordyn Severin

Hits The Right Notes For The Little Ones At Marie-Rose Music Studio, Owner and Lead Instructor, Jordyn Severin’s passion towards providing a high quality musical education to her students has been a continued motivation in her life and career.

At the shy age of four, Severin’s mom signed her up for the Music for Young Children (MYC) program, and at six years old she won her first international composition competition for piano. Continuing her passion for music, she earned her first scholarship for piano at the age of 10 and began her journey with music from that point on.

In 2016, Severin took over Marie-Rose Music Studio after her mentor and teacher — Sister Claire Durocher who opened the studio in 1972 — announced she was retiring after 55 years of teaching.

“In 2012, I became the youngest qualified MYC teacher in Canada at age 18,” she recalls. “With the help of my mentor and good friend, Sister Claire, I was able to start my first year of teaching with two small classes of students.”

At that time, Severin was completing her undergraduate degree full time and teaching only on Saturday mornings, but luckily, because she had Durocher there to help, she was able to run her own small business with nine clients in her first year.

“Throughout my undergrad degree, my clientele grew, and I began to learn the ins and outs of running a business with the help of Sister Claire,” she explains. “Of course, this was a huge honour for me and I will be forever grateful for this incredible gift that Sister Claire provided me. Now in her late 70s, Sister Claire is still involved with the studio and I still call her to tell her stories about the business and ask for her advice.”

Located at 1232 Stoneybrook Crescent in Windsor, Marie-Rose Music studio offers private piano lessons (seven and up) and MYC group classes (two to six years of age).

“This small-group, keyboard-based MYC program provides a wellrounded musical education including theory, singing, composition, ensemble playing, and listening skills. So, once they graduate from the program, they can complete their grade one practical and theory examinations through the Royal Conservatory of Music and move on to any instrument of their choosing,” she states. “I am passionate about providing high quality musical education to children, but we also aim to help children grow valuable life skills that will help them to be compassionate, successful and hard working members of our community.”

While the music community may be very small in Windsor, Jordyn Severin’s experience has been filled with very supportive and positive groups of people. Since she took over Marie-Rose Music Studio in 2016, the business has grown by leaps and bounds.

Music camps (for those aged five to nine) are also available at various times in the year.

Before coming to the decision to take over Marie-Rose Music Studio, Severin wanted to be a physician because she believed that is where she would be most successful.

“I even went as far as writing my MCAT and applied to medical schools in Canada,” she mentions. “After a lot of soul searching and learning about myself, I realized that teaching music is what makes me the happiest and what fills me with joy. It was a very tough decision to change my whole life plan, but now I feel absolutely fulfilled and love what I do every day.”

With the recent relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, Severin is returning to in-person lessons, but she will continue to offer online lessons (as she did when lockdown measures were in effect) as an option for those feeling unwell and think it is best to stay at home, and for families who do not feel comfortable taking lessons in the studio.

“This past year has been a very scary and difficult time for small business owners everywhere,” she says. “My clients were very open to moving online and their support, along with my family and friends, made this transition less difficult, I now see many new opportunities to teach through online platforms, moving forward.”

In closing, Severin shares the most valuable insight that she has learned throughout her career — to continue to do what you love.

“Focus on doing it the best you can. Clients will see you shine and want to share the magic with everyone they know.”

For more information, check out: MarieRoseMusic.com.

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BIZ BITS

Windsor Diner Offers Support And Employment Training To Those Impacted By Mental Illness Issues

By Dave Hall

For almost 30 years, Ten Friends Diner has contributed to the mental health of Windsorites by offering a safe environment where they can learn a trade or prepare to re-enter the employment market.

The diner, a community-based, registered charity offering support to people who are surviving with mental health issues, has been in operation since 1993 in several locations around the city.

After starting as a lunch bar in the Canadian Mental Health Association offices, the diner is currently located at 1412 Wyandotte Street East (at Moy Avenue) in Windsor. It is staffed by people dealing with depression, schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, anxiety, and personality issues.

“We’ve seen a lot of people come through this program and gone on to be very successful,” explains Program Manager, Carolyn Burton, who has been with Ten Friends for 16 years. “It gives our employees the opportunity to prove to themselves and others that they can run their own businesses or work very successfully for someone else.”

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Michael Burton (Carolyn’s husband), who has been with the program for 18 years, says that program members start out as dishwashers and then move through as cooks, waiters and office workers before many find a job in the community.

Employees attend the diner for two days a week, one paid and the other for a weekly peer support day.

According to one member of the diner’s staff, the program is invaluable because it offers many opportunities to grow and learn while maintaining a job.

“Before I started working at Ten Friends Diner, I was a wreck because I was in and out of hospital seeking help,” she says.

“I had no idea such a place was waiting to be found by me.”

The staff member (who wishes not to be named) adds: “It provides a support system as well as counselling. Through my experience dealing with my own illness and my degree in psychology, I find I can now counsel my peers and also receive counselling in return.”

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Ten Friends Diner on Wyandotte Street East in Windsor is a community based, registered charity serving "great food for a great cause"! Photo courtesy of Ten Friends Diner.

She met her husband while working as a server and is now a program leader.

The program is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Health with critical funding that allows the diner to achieve staffing levels that normally would not be available to a typical diner.

To view their breakfast and lunch menu and weekly specials visit their website: TenFriendsDiner.ca. And to keep up to date on their hours of operation and dining options during the pandemic go to: Facebook.com/TenFriendsDiner.

CHARITY PROFILE

Mental Health Connections Virtually Assisting Clients Focus On Wellness During The Pandemic The coronavirus (COVID-19) has taken its toll on many residents and families throughout Windsor-Essex. Social distancing requirements, store closures, job losses, and school closures are some of the pandemicrelated consequences that can increase anxiety.

For people living with a mental illness, the added stress and concern about the pandemic has been a top priority for Mental Health Connections (MHC). Due to safety concerns for both clients and staff, MHC had to close its doors and transition from in-person to online programming.

“We are pleased to have stayed connected with our clients through virtual programming and daily wellness calls, which have served to guide clients through these difficult times,” says Jean Laforge, Executive Director. “While we miss the activity and laughter at MHC, we are equally impressed by our client involvement in, and response to, our online classes.”

Erin Pardy, a Social Worker and certified Psychosocial Rehabilitation Recovery Practitioner, leads online group sessions on anxiety and self-esteem. She notes that people who are vulnerable to increased levels of anxiety and depression during the pandemic are participating more and more frequently.

Erin Pardy, a Social Worker and certified Psychosocial Rehabilitation Recovery Practitioner.

Jacqui Janzen, Art and Writing Instructor.

“COVID-19 has ironically provided an opportunity to bring people together in new ways, which is important since we do not know when things will return to normal,” states Pardy. “While routines have been disrupted, there have also been unexpected benefits, such as letting down barriers and becoming more familiar with technology.

Some clients are even getting together online between classes for increased social time.”

MHC’s physical fitness and nutrition classes are taught by Steve Collins. He also regularly checks in with clients by phone, and reports continuous positive feedback from clients who only miss online classes when they have an essential appointment outside the home.

“About half of those ages 16 to 76 in my online classes, had not participated previously.

They have never worked out before, but expressed they felt safe trying an online class,” says Collins, Fitness and Nutrition Instructor with canfitpro certification as a personal trainer. “It is important to keep up with fitness and nutrition since exercising and eating healthy can positively affect mental wellness.”

MHC provides integrated psychosocial rehabilitation services (recovery strategies) to approximately 1,000 clients who are living in Windsor-Essex and experiencing mental health issues, as well as to family members.

Additional day and evening online classes for Windsor and Leamington clients are offered by certified instructors, including: Recovery Strategies (Depression and Coping Skills); Mindfulness (Self Care and Meditation); Zumba Gold; Zumba Gold Seated; Zumba La Blast Dance (Solo Ballroom Dancing); Yoga; Games and Socializing; and a Leamington Group.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to offer online classes in creative writing and visual art (drawing, painting and sketching),” expresses Jacqui Janzen, Art and Writing Instructor and retired high school teacher. “I am pleased to see both men and women in my classes. The appreciation they show through positive feedback, and their excitement about being able to try new things, is inspirational.”

Steve Collins teaches physical fitness and nutrition classes.

MHC, established in April 2004, is today utilizing online programming to maximize each person’s growth and potential in a support community that cares and understands. Through careful planning over the years, strategic partnerships and support of other community agencies, MHC has positioned itself as a necessary and integral service in Windsor and Essex County.

For more information, or to become a client, email: info@mentalhealthconnections.ca or call (519) 256-4854 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A monthly calendar of online classes can be found on the MHC website: mentalhealthconnections.ca.

519-256-4854 • www.mentalhealthconnections.ca BIZ X M A G A Z IN E • M A R C H 2 0 2 1

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THE PARENTING BIZ

Help Turn That Frown Upside Down!

Area mental health experts are here for your child and family

By Matthew St. Amand ne thing people likely will not miss, once the COVID-19 global pandemic has passed, is most of the news being “All COVID, all the time!” The coronavirus outbreak has been the O.J. Simpson trial of public health events.

Pandemics have occurred throughout human history, many more catastrophic than this current strain of the coronavirus.

Each event had its own, unique historical footprint, and COVID-19 will be no different. Aside from the technology used to treat those infected, and to create a vaccine to fend it off, there is another aspect of the current crisis that is unique to our time — the focus on mental health.

The toll of open-ended lockdowns on the human psyche is an ongoing conversation.

People are social creatures and the isolation of “sheltering in place” for prolonged periods, comes with a cost.

In the realm of criminal justice, the subject has been studied and debated at length. In a 2018 edition of Psychology Today, UN Special Rapporteur Juan E. Mendez’s report is quoted: “Solitary confinement, [as a punishment] cannot be justified for any reason, precisely because it imposes severe mental pain and suffering beyond any reasonable retribution for criminal behaviour and thus constitutes an act defined [as] . . . torture.”

Sheltering in our homes is not fully comparable to solitary confinement in prison, but its effects should not be minimized.

At the beginning of the COVID-19

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© Can Stock Photo/Bialasiewicz

O

As the lead provider of community mental health and addiction services, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA Windsor-Essex County Branch) has introduced supports for individuals and families during these unprecedented times.

pandemic, during the first lockdown, memes were rife on social media, downplaying the effects, speaking of previous generations that endured World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II, and people of today simply being asked to sit on their couches all day watching TV. Soft-pedalling our collective experience in that way is neither accurate, nor is it helpful.

While adults struggle with the effects of limited social contact with the outside world, balancing bills with altered work schedules and interrupted income, it’s easy to forget

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the effects the pandemic has on our kids.

Books on parenthood stress the need for structure and routine in the lives of children.

With the school year interrupted for those attending, and with thousands of children learning online, at home, structure and routine are two more casualties of these unprecedented times.

Biz X reached out to mental health experts in Windsor and Essex County to learn what parents can do to identify if their children are suffering. More importantly, to discover what strategies can be used in the home,

THE PARENTING BIZ and what resources exist in the community to help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other disorders resulting from protracted isolation.

Mental Health Organizations And Business Professionals Are Just A Phone Call Away

Kim Willis, Director, Communications and Mental Health Promotion with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Windsor-Essex County Branch) puts things in perspective at the outset: “There is no health without mental health.”

Regarding signs that children are having a hard time, Willis says negative changes in behaviour over an extended time period should be noted.

“If someone is usually very outgoing and positive, but has become isolated and negative, that would be an indicator,” she explains. “Also, anything that inhibits your ability to function on a daily basis. We all have bad days, feel irritable, but if a child is sleeping all the time, doesn’t want to engage with the family, doesn’t want to go outside — those should raise a red flag with parents.”

She stresses the importance of checking in with your children, asking them how they feel and what their thoughts are about the pandemic, or how they feel about going back to school.

Kim Willis, Director, Communications and Mental Health Promotion for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) WindsorEssex County Branch.

Photo courtesy of Rob Gurdebeke.

“Adults also need to break out of their shells because we’re all experiencing this together,” Willis continues. “The pandemic has impacted everyone.”

Her advice begins with the basics: “Try and remain positive — for your children.

Focus on what is within your control. It’s easy to dwell on the negative, but the sense of positivity and optimism is important.”

She also suggests organizing daily and/ or weekly family activities, such as walks, board games — activities that, preferably, do not involve screens.

“If your child is exhibiting troublesome behaviour, services are available,” states Willis. “Much has been shut down, but mental health and addictions services are considered essential.”

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Read up on all services offered by CMHA on their website: WindsorEssex.CMHA.ca.

For children 16 years of age and younger, parents can contact the Regional Children’s Centre (RCC). In pre-pandemic times, RCC offered walk-in services, but during COVID-19, people are encouraged to call 519-257-5437 (KIDS) for an appointment.

“For people over the age of 16, there are several options,” Willis points out.

The Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Crisis and Mental Wellness Centre (TSC building) has a 24-hour crisis line: 519-973-4435.

There is also the Kids Help Phone, which can be accessed at 1-800-668-6868, or by logging on to: KidsHelpPhone.ca.

The Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7, national support service. It offers professional counselling, information, and referrals, as well as volunteer-led, text-based support to young people in English and French. The service is completely confidential.

“We will get through this,” assures Willis. “If you’re struggling mentally, that impacts your whole life. We must take care of each other and ourselves.

If you or a family member is having trouble with anxiety, depression, grief, reach out.

You owe it to yourself, your family, and your friends.”

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THE PARENTING BIZ Caitlin Keanie, RSW, Intake Coordinator/Co-owner, SPARK Pediatric Services (Sparking Pivotal Achievements in Remarkable Kids) believes it is helpful that we all get on the same page about what is meant by the term “mental health”.

“When people think of ‘mental health’, they often think of it in terms of the presence of psychological problems,” Keanie says.

“In actuality, the term refers to our overall emotional, psychological, and social well-being.”

Keanie explains that having a bad day does not necessarily mean a child needs psychological help. She does point out, however, that everyone benefits from the support of a professional in developing healthy thinking patterns, behavioural habits, and positive coping methods for their problems.

“It can take a great deal of emotional energy to actively listen to our children’s experiences and emotions,” she continues, “and to respond positively and empathically.”

Keanie goes on to say that it’s helpful for parents to take time to reflect on how their own physical and mental state impacts their ability to respond appropriately to their children’s strong feelings. It’s certainly not easy, but parents are encouraged to model, in their everyday life, how they identify and regulate their own emotions — including taking moments to themselves when needed.

She makes the point: “Self care is not selfish. It’s essential.”

Keanie emphasizes that self care for the whole family should be encouraged, prioritized, and individualized, based on what makes each person feel happy and calm. Whether it’s getting outside, creating art, making music, journaling, or playing board games. We all need something that gets us out of our own heads for a span of time.

“If a parent feels their child’s mental health is being negatively impacted,” Keanie says, “whether at home, school, or in other areas of their lives — then counselling can be an effective option.”

Sometimes, there are specific events in children’s lives that may amplify the need for mental health support, such as major transitions, death in the family, divorce, or — as of late — global pandemics.

“We, at SPARK, are always happy to answer questions regarding ways that our services can support children, youth, and families in the community!” enthuses Keanie.

For imminent crises, including children and youth, 16 years of age or older, who may be at risk of doing harm to themselves or others, families can contact the 24-hour crisis line by calling 519-973-4435.

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SPARK Pediatric Services is a new and growing private practice serving children and their families within the Windsor Essex area. After recognizing gaps in the services available to children and families in the community, SPARK was created by three passionate professionals (from left in photo): Sara Crawford and Jenna Tolmie, Registered Occupational Therapists, and Caitlin Keanie, Registered Social Worker and Intake Coordinator. Their counselling services focus on helping children, youth and families to address and resolve various issues and concerns in their lives. Photo courtesy of SPARK Pediatric Services.

Further details about SPARK’s services can be found on their website: SparkPediatric.com.

Stephanie John, MT, OCT, B.A. of Back On Track Behaviour & Education Consulting recognizes that it can be difficult distinguishing between a child having a bad day, and someone who is struggling. How can parents recognize when their child is in crisis?

“Symptoms can include — but are not limited to — constant, unexplainable stomach aches, school refusal, control issues, to name a few,” John says.

Parents do not always have to search for signs of distress. Sometimes they explode right in front of them.

What can parents do if their child is having a meltdown or panic attack?

“First . . . pause,” John suggests. “Take a couple of deep breaths. Get a handle on your knee-jerk reactions.”

She advises that parents listen to their children without judging, without trying to fix or change the child’s perspective.

“Let the child talk and get it out,” John continues. “Parents think they have to intervene, that they have to add something to the mix to repair the situation. The child already has enough in the mix — too much, maybe — and just needs a supportive listener.”

THE PARENTING BIZ Stephanie John, Owner of Back On Track Behaviour & Education Consulting.

Photo courtesy of Frank Michael Photography.

John reminds us that it's no coincidence the word “emotion” means “to move” in Latin.

“Emotion drives . . . it changes physiology,” she says. “Emotion requires people to move, whether it’s tears moving down their face, or riding your bike. Unfortunately, when witnessing an emotional outburst, our instinct is to try and contain or control it. If we let our child go off their hinges we cannot predict where it’ll lead.”

So, is the parent to just stand by and watch?

“No,” John replies. “For the child who is losing control, it’s important they get it out.

The question is ‘where?’ In their bedroom, screaming into a pillow is a much better situation than in the middle of the grocery store. Everyone needs something that allows the energy of the emotion to move.”

Research shows that “first responders” (usually parents), have the capacity to be extremely influential in how their children handle emotions.

“It’s great to have therapy,” John says, “it is necessary, but the problem is, a lot of the emotional charge that gets trapped in people occurs in the moment. Parents’ role is nonsuppression. Do not suppress the emotion.”

John readily admits this is easier said than done. That is why she offers workshops where parents can learn these skills.

“An upcoming workshop focuses on selfregulation and emotional intelligence,” John mentions. “It teaches parents how to guide kids in dealing with their big emotions.”

Fees for workshops vary, but these are comprehensive lessons that make use of customized tools and materials that are delivered to the homes of participants, beforehand.

“Most parents’ biggest mental health concern for kids is anxiety,” John reveals.

“Parents don’t know what to look for, and the signs of anxiety can vary from child to child.”

She advises concerned parents check out: TurnAroundAnxiety.com, where they will find a detailed checklist to help determine if their child is suffering from anxiety.

For more information about the

Laura Crowley-Hall, Maryvale Program Manager. Photo courtesy of Maryvale.

services offered by Back On Track Behaviour & Education Consulting go to: GetKidsOnTrack.com.

Maryvale Program Manager (above), Laura Crowley-Hall, MSW, RSW, observes: “Services across the community have been accessed in a greater volume during the pandemic. Many kids are struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of isolation.”

Unsurprisingly — but no less disturbing — children who were already suffering with issues are suffering even more during the pandemic.

What can parents do?

“Check in with your kids,” Crowley-Hall advises. “Talking to them about what is

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THE PARENTING BIZ going on is important because social media has lots of misinformation. Routine and social connections are also important to mental health. Routines get all out of whack during lockdown. Kids staying up all night, sleeping all day, for instance.”

Going to bed at a set time can provide some of this routine, as well as maintaining self-care, such as eating well, keeping up with hygiene, going outside for walks.

If parents observe more severe behaviour in their children — constant meltdowns, unwillingness to go to school, depression, threats or evidence of self-harm — CrowleyHall says: “If the child is 16 years of age, or younger, Windsor Regional has its Mental Health Program.”

The Mental Health Program at Windsor Regional Hospital provides acute services 24 hours a day, seven days a week for patients 16 years of age or older. Services include emergency psychiatric assessments through the Emergency Department, admission into their 60-bed acute mental health program, or admission into their eight-bed Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit. In addition, their team provides psychiatric consultation to in-patients throughout the hospital.

More information can be found at: WRH.on.ca/MentalHealth. The Community Crisis Line is 519-973-4435.

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Mental health still occupies an awkward space in contemporary life, leaving some people hesitant about accessing services.

Crowley-Hall suggests: “If you believe your child needs help, but you’re unsure how to proceed, call Maryvale at 519-258-0484. Our in-take officer can advise families who have questions.”

Parents can also refer to: Maryvale.ca.

Further information about their services is located on the home page.

In addition, Maryvale is conducting, with the Greater Essex County District School Board, a virtual “Coping Together” Caregiver Seminar Series each Wednesday in March from 7 to 8 p.m.

It is open to all members of the community and you can register on the website: PublicBoard.ca.

The series is designed to illustrate that, as a community, we can come together during this difficult time and the topics can help people develop a roadmap for adapting to the current pandemic and emerging stronger than before.

Topics include: “Creating A Daily Routine,” “Finding The Calm In An Emotional Storm,” “Knowing When To Ask For Help,” “Dual Roles: Caregiver And Academic Coach” and “Building Resilience And Hope”.

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Lori Kempe, Executive Director of Children First, can’t wait for guests to come in and sit down inside “The Stephanie and Barry Zekelman Foundation Community Room”. Kempe and her team look forward to a time when they can host in-centre parenting groups, such as “Circle of Security,” the “Triple P — Positive Parenting Program” and “FRIENDS Resilience” for families in our community.

Photo courtesy of Sharri Hamelin.

Lori Kempe, M.S.W., R.S.W. Executive Director of Children First, has a message for parents of kids who are struggling: “You’ve got this.”

Children First provides services for families with children from infancy up

THE PARENTING BIZ to six years of age, who are at risk for, or experiencing, mental health challenges or developmental concerns. It is accredited by the Canadian Centre for Accreditation.

“Lots of families are calling,” Kempe says. “When children are having temper tantrums, meltdowns, we advise parents to be present, be calm. The relationship with their child is key.”

Kempe acknowledges that when a child’s temper is escalating, it’s easy for parents to become upset and stressed.

“Take a breath,” Kempe advises, “take a break. Be a model for your child. Show them how to handle a difficult situation.”

Children First offers programs that focus on the relationship between parent and child.

“In the ‘Circle of Security’ program,” she continues, “caregivers learn to understand their child’s emotional needs, how to support those emotions. Sometimes they are big emotions for a little person. We teach parents how to enhance the child’s development of self esteem and learn to manage those feelings.”

To learn more about this program, or to access help, you can call Children First: 519-250-1850, or visit: Children-First.ca.

Kempe acknowledges that Children First honours caregivers.

“They are the experts of their child,”

Kempe also mentions the Connections Early Years Family Centre “Be Back Soon” program. For eligible families, they can leave their little ones in a safe space to attend appointments (mental health, legal, medical). All proper health precautions are taken to ensure the children are safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

More information can be viewed on the Early Years website: ConnectWithUs.ca under the “Programs” tab.

“It’s about family wellness,” Kempe sums up. “We are here to help. There is nothing wrong with asking for help.”

Help Is Always Available

Stephanie and Barry Zekelman helped the new community room for Children First become a reality with their donation. The space is designed to be warm and inviting with functional seating that allows for a variety of group settings. The Windsor Firefighters’ Benefit Fund also gave a donation that was used to create a family counselling room. Photo courtesy of Zishan Ali.

she expresses. “They want to help. We cannot stress enough, the social, emotional development of the child, their capacity to develop relationships with peers, comes from their caregivers.”

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The COVID-19 global pandemic will end.

Vaccines have been created and are now being deployed around the world. As we all transition back to a semblance of normality, there will no doubt be remnants of stress and anxiety that carry over from the pandemic.

“There are likely to be a variety of experiences in terms of the postpandemic emotional and social impacts on children,” says Caitlin Keanie of SPARK Pediatric Services.

If any lessons can be derived from the pandemic, they are that we can rely on one another, help is available, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

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THE PARENTING BIZ FROM THE BOOKSHELF

The “Chuckles And Boomerang” Children’s Series

A

mherstburg author Stephen Massey wants to help maintain and promote the innocence of childhood for our youngest citizens and their parents.

To that end, Massey has self-published his first two children’s picture books, “Chuckles and Boomerang” and “Scrubbles”, for children and parents to enjoy.

Massey, a married father of two, based the book on a little girl — his own daughter — and her dog.

Kids will love the “Chuckles and Boomerang” series while adults will be reminded of their childhood and be taken back to a very innocent and special time with their family.

“When Cheryl was born, I nicknamed her ‘Chuckles’ and the nickname has stuck for well over 30 years,” recalls Massey. “There’s a lot of my daughter in Chuckles. There isn’t really much of a story behind the dog’s name, but I just thought ‘Chuckles and Boomerang’ had a nice ring to it.”

Massey managed to keep the book publishing a secret from both of his children and was able to surprise them when they each received a package from Amazon they didn’t order. His daughter was totally shocked to see Chuckles in the title and then see her dad’s name as the author!

The little girl, Chuckles, has a respectful disposition, and so will future characters as the series aims to provide good role models. And the books will always have a happy ending.

“No doom and gloom, and if there is some doom and gloom, it will still end happily!” says Massey who continues with: “To me, all children really deserve to enjoy their childhood and the innocence of just being a kid. And parents and grandparents deserve to have some wholesome books to read to their loved ones.”

Stephen Massey was born in Sault Ste. Marie quite a few years ago and now resides in Amherstburg.

Once you read his books you will quickly learn why his imagination needed to be put into print for the enjoyment of children all over the world.

Photo courtesy of author.

His friend, Steven Johnson was responsible for the beautifully illustrated pages with vibrant colours that will captivate your child’s interest. It was Johnson who suggested over dinner with their wives one evening that Massey write a children’s book.

“I had never entertained the idea of writing a book, but have always had characters in my head,” states Massey. “So, after a few weeks, I penned a manuscript and ‘Chuckles and Boomerang’ was on its way to becoming a reality.”

The first book was published in August 2018 and is based on the unfortunate circumstance of “Boomerang” (the family dog) becoming lost and the anguish that Chuckles and her parents find themselves in.

Of course though, as mentioned, there is a happy ending.

In July 2020 the second book “Scrubbles” was released. In it, Chuckles and Boomerang have a lot of fun without even leaving their yard!

However, some adventures result in an unexpected mess despite their good intentions. An uninvited quest suddenly starts a whirlwind of events that puts the whole family in an uproar. “Scrubbles” is one of those adventures.

“It has been a real treat to publish a children’s series of books with more on the way!” Massey expresses.

Contact the author at: chucklesandboomerang2018@outlook.com.

To purchase the books you can shop locally at the River Bookshop, 67 Richmond Street in Amherstburg. Indigo locations in Devonshire Mall and in Tecumseh also carry the series. Visit: ChucklesAndBoomerang.com to be redirected to buy on Amazon.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ CHARITY PROFILE

Make-A-Wish “Go Blue! Go Bald!” Fundraiser

Got the blues? Then spring forward with a new look by joining Make-A-Wish Southwestern Ontario for their “Go Blue” fundraising events!

Each year Make-A-Wish promotes its “Go Blue! Go Bald!” campaign where participants dye their hair blue, raise pledges and shave (or cut) their hair in support of wish kids.

For 2021 you can show off your blue hair during your virtual meetings with your co-workers, family and friends to gain their support during the pandemic.

Windsor resident John Concannon has participated in the annual “Go Blue! Go Bald!” event for the past 13 years, raising over $36,000 in support of wish kids.

When he started dyeing his hair blue in 2008 he had no way of knowing the cause would become very personal. His granddaughter Violet, who went through chemotherapy, had her wish for an outside playset granted last summer.

To read about Violet’s wish story, go to:

MakeAWishSWO.ca/wish-story/violets-wish.

Make-A-Wish hopes you can join them as a participant, sponsor or an event organizer for a “Go Blue!” fundraising event to help continue to grant life-changing wishes for children (aged three to 17) with critical illnesses, across Southwestern Ontario.

If you are interested in organizing your own fundraiser, please email Erica Garrod at: erica.garrod@makeawish.ca.

Keep in mind that if “Go Blue! Go Bald!” is too bold a move for you personally, you can consider hosting a “Go Blue!” fundraiser event, including all things blue.

Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, MakeA-Wish is the world’s leading children’s wish-granting organization, serving children in every community in Canada, and in more than 50 countries worldwide. The regional office for Windsor Essex, located in London, Ontario has granted over 1,600 incredible wishes since 1986. For more information visit: MakeAWish.ca.

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Long time “Go Blue! Go Bald!” participant John Concannon of Windsor is shown with his granddaughter Violet when she was six months old in March 2017.

Photo courtesy of Make-A-Wish.

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"Lettuce" Celebrate 54 Fruitful Years Of Silverstein’s Produce OF THE MONTH

By Dave Hall

Silverstein’s Produce supplies many restaurants, institutions, and chain stores, as well as its own retail outlet, for indoor shopping or curbside pickup.

Online Specialists Cameron Badour, (far left) and Andrew Carlone (far right) can help place your order while President, Tony Sorge (middle) and Vice President Anna Sorge-McGregor (absent) oversee the entire operation.

Photo by Rod Denis.

I

t’s been more than 50 years since Silverstein’s Produce began supplying fresh fruits, vegetables and meat to customers across Windsor and Essex County.

Gino Sorge, a one-time delivery driver and salesman, launched the company in 1967 after he and wife Fiorina bought Adolf’s Produce, following the death of the company’s owner.

In 1977, they purchased Silverstein’s Produce and kept the name because it had such a good reputation across the region.

“My dad couldn’t read or write very well when he came to Canada, so he delivered furniture and produce to make a living,” notes Tony Sorge, who now runs the company along with sister, Anna Sorge-McGregor. “But he always wanted to start his own business and he had his chance when he bought Adolf’s Produce from his former employer.”

Gino kept that name as well and didn’t switch over to Silverstein’s until he bought that business.

At the time, Silverstein’s was located a block from the former downtown city market and Tony remembers starting work there when he was seven years old.

“My dad had me down there before 4 a.m. selling oranges and lemons from a small stall,” he says, laughing. “I can’t believe it’s been that long.”

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Gino, who passed away in 2019, moved the company to its current location in 1991.

And while Silverstein’s has been successful for the past 54 years, there have been challenges, most recently during the current COVID-19 pandemic, Pivoting and adjusting business models over the past 12 months are the main reasons why many companies have survived in the face of economic hardships caused by government-mandated restrictions.

In adapting to current circumstances, Silverstein’s has created an online retail store to make it easier for customers to shop for their fresh produce, as well as meat and frozen products.

“A lot of our customers still don’t believe this virus is serious and many come shopping with families in large numbers,” explains Tony. “We decided to try and come up with something which would make shopping safer and more convenient for our customers.”

Ordering online and combining that with curbside pickup, seems to be the ideal solution.

“It’s been difficult to manage inventory because so many restaurants have had to switch to curbside pickup or delivery, so they don’t need as much product from our wholesale division,” indicates Cameron Badour,

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who has been instrumental in setting up the company’s website and pickup program. “We have a retail store at the rear of our warehouse, which makes it easy and convenient for our customers to pick up their orders.”

Customers just need to visit the online retail store at: SilversteinsProduce.ca to browse through more than 400 items, in such categories as fruit, vegetables, grocery, meat, and frozen products. There’s also an option to purchase pre-selected items.

“We were looking for a safe way to provide produce to our older customers because many remain nervous about going out during the pandemic,” states Andrew Carlone, who is part of the company’s online team. “Getting that message out is a challenge, but it’s slowly growing and it has the potential to be a large part of our business.”

Then, it’s simply a matter of paying by credit card, waiting for a confirmation email, visiting the store and picking up the pre-packaged order.

“It’s simple and easy, and based on comments from customers, it’s becoming very popular,” adds Badour. “Generally, orders can be ready for pickup within an hour or so.”

Badour acknowledges that many shoppers prefer to select their own fresh produce, but he says that issue is mitigated by Silverstein’s commitment to top-quality meats, fruits and vegetables.

Silverstein’s has about two dozen staff and Badour mentions that the new initiative has kept them extremely busy.

Despite the challenges and demands that have been placed on all small businesses because of COVID-19 restrictions, Silverstein’s has remained open through the entire pandemic.

“We think it’s very important that we have been able to adapt and overcome pandemic challenges by using innovation, modernization and technology to continue serving our community with the produce and grocery selections they need,” Badour declares.

Tony feels the company’s success has been due in large part to its commitment to supporting local suppliers throughout its history.

“It’s important to buy local as much as possible,” he stresses.

Silverstein’s Produce is located at 999 E.C. Row Avenue, along the South Service Road.

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