Biz X magazine October 2020

YOUR ONLY INTERNATIONAL BORDER CITY PUBLICATION Joe Mikhail: A Thorn In Windsor City Hall’s Side Area Health Club’s “Just Want To Pump You Up”!

The Alzheimer Society Of Windsor And Essex County’s New Virtual Fundraiser “Social With A Purpose”

October 2020

$3.50

PLUS “Small Business Month”; Riverside Roofing; Stigma Enigma’s “Meals For Mental Health”; Ignite Health; “Clutterbug” Cassandra Aarssen; Celebrating 50 Years Of The Windsor Regiment Band; Millennium Strategies & Game Gear Attire

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May The Course Be With You! Looking for fun family things to do this fall?

Then head to Ure’s Country Kitchen in Harrow where Randy and Laurie Ure have added a world class 18 hole mini golf course, next to their restaurant and Ice Cream Parlour & Café. With winter on its way, now is not the time to hibernate. Follow a course of action set out in THE PARENTING BIZ section on places to visit and activities to keep the kids entertained. — Page 18

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

We support local and independent businesses

October is Small Business Month!

The WindsorEssex Small Business Centre continues to support regional small businesses during these challenging times.

Visit us at windsoressexsmallbusiness.com and see how we can help your business succeed.

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table of contents OCTOBER 2020 volume 23 • issue 8

4 Funny Stuff 5 From The Publisher: Show Your Love During “Small Business Month” 6 Editorial Viewpoint: The Mikhail Brothers On The Outside Looking In Despite financing ambitious developments like the pharmaceutical plant under construction at 2679 Howard Avenue in Windsor, Joe, John and Lou Mikhail are kept outside the inner circles of Windsor’s business establishment, writes columnist Alan Halberstadt. Accompanying photo shows the exterior of the old industrial building that the brothers are redeveloping from the inside out.

8 Front Lines 9 Event Profile: Adventure Awaits On A TWEPI Road Trip 11 Heard On The Street 12 Spooky Stories: A Haunting We Will Go With Canadian Paranormal Trackers In Search Of Spirits 14 Newsflash 15 Let’s Talk About: Noah’s Mental Health Foundation Inc. 16 Food For Thought: Stigma Enigma’s “Meals For Mental Health“ From November 2 to 8, 2020, when you dine (or pick up food) at one of the 14 participating local restaurants during Stigma Enigma’s “Meals for Mental Health” week, tips turn into money to support adolescents at the Maryvale Treatment Centre.

Perhaps the Cantonese Chow Mein (pictured) loaded with chicken, BBQ pork, shrimp and garden veggies served at the Pomegranate Chinese restaurant is what you crave? Order it and then leave a big tip for the cause! For all the juicy details on which other eateries are taking part in this fundraiser, flip to our food page.

23 From The Bookshelf: “Jackson” By Lynn McLaughlin

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24 Portfolio Corner: Bouncing Back After A Crisis 25 The Way It Was: Esprit de Corps, In Concert With . . .

History And Tradition 26 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Go “Social With A Purpose” For The Alzheimer Society Of Windsor And Essex County 28 XX Files: Diana Giorgi, Game Gear Attire Game Gear Attire is a professional embroidery and silk screening company owned by Diana Giorgi. A one-stop shop for her customers, Giorgi has a team of hard working women helping her get the job done. (From left in photo by Julianna Bonnett): Laura Vazzoler, Giorgi, Cindy Winter, and Lisa Pelling smile for the camera in front of one of their many machines at the Amherstburg location.

29 Tech Bytes: Takin’ Care Of Business And Your Health 30 Feature Story: COVID-19 Shutdowns Give Fitness Clubs An Unexpected Work Out When the pandemic shut down businesses in mid-March, including gyms and athletic clubs, they had no choice, but to get creative to keep in touch with their members. Many turned to online and outdoor sessions before being allowed to re-open under strict cleaning protocols and physical distancing, in August. When the doors were allowed to re-open there was a pent-up demand and local gyms reported increases in membership. Let’s learn about the strengths area clubs use to attract new members as they battle against COVID-19 setbacks.

35 Take The Lead: Getting Organized With “Clutterbug” Cassandra Aarssen, HGTV “Hot Mess House” Host 36 Ask The Experts: Reliability & Integrity With Riverside Roofing Inc. 37 At Home: Keeping Your Home Office Safe 38 Biz Of The Month: Millennium Strategies, Digital Marketing Company

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ON THE COVER —“May The Course Be With You!”— THE PARENTING BIZ, PAGE 18 Happy fall y’all! If you are in need of a little family entertainment on the weekend or an extracurricular activity to keep your child busy after school . . . look no further! Our cover story features bushels of fall fun (while still keeping everyone safe) such as a round of goofy golf. Pictured are Randy and Laurie Ure, owners of Ure’s Country Kitchen, Mini Golf and Ice Cream Parlour & Café, 6000 County Road 20 West, Harrow (Malden Centre). The new course features trick shots, a waterfall, two streams, four ponds, five fountains and challenging fairways. It’s the couple’s ace in the hole and it will be yours too as you score big points with the kids for an exciting family outing!

Photo by Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com).

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Super pooches Bella (left) and Jonathan to the rescue!

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from the publisher

Small Businesses Need Your Support

By Deborah Jones Every year at this time my column is about all the events and celebrations related to October being “Small Business Month.”

There is still cause for celebration, but things are different.

Without pointing out the obvious, 2020 is a year most just want to be over. In my daily conversations and emails with business owners, they tell me they are fighting to survive and working harder than ever.

One guess, why! That’s right, the C word.

I am not going to dwell on it here on how much the world has changed — everyone is well aware of the suffering, stress and the state of the economy.

We just have to get through it the best we can and stay healthy, plus keep our employees and customers/clients safe too.

There is a lot of speculation that plenty of businesses, small ones at that, will soon close up shop. The truth is we just don’t know what the future will bring.

Small businesses are the heart of Windsor Essex — the backbone of our economy and community. We need to make sure we support these companies, in any way possible.

Considering that I run a small business, I am grateful for the advertising support we have received from our valued clients and for new advertisers choosing us as well. The stories we publish promote small businesses in our region as they inform residents and potential consumers where to visit or purchase goods/services.

So what can you do — a heck of a lot!

Choosing to purchase from a local business and not buying online at big retailers is the most important one.

Any dollars you can spend locally helps keep the cash flowing in our economy so employees and owners can be paid as can suppliers. And even if you do not wish to physically enter the shop, see if delivery or curbside pickup is offered.

People are buying less, that’s a given.

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However, certain items and services like groceries, haircuts, new clothing for growing kids and birthday gifts etc. are always needed.

Whenever you can, order flowers online to send to someone special; shop for home décor items (sprucing up your home is the thing to do these days!); purchase artwork or a new CD from a Windsor artist; treat yourself to a massage or manicure, just to name a few ideas.

As the colder weather arrives and sitting outside on a patio at your favourite restaurant is no longer an option, order take-out or delivery every chance you can.

And when the delivery driver arrives, tip BIG! Even if you do not have a lot of spare cash, you can still show your support for small business.

On social media there are all kinds of graphics going around with suggestions such as: liking, sharing and commenting on posts on the pages of small businesses; writing a review online and telling your family and friends about the companies you patronize so they can do the same.

The more we can support small business during this crisis, the faster our economy will bounce back, when life returns somewhat to the way we remember.

So happy “Small Business Month”! I look forward to connecting with you in our next edition when we honour even more small businesses with the 23rd annual Biz X Awards . . .

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editorial viewpoint

Mikhail Developers Don’t Get No Respect

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

“Everybody hates me,” chortles Joe Mikhail as I prepare to leave his seventh floor office in the middle of the CIBC building, 100 Ouellette Avenue, in the heart of downtown Windsor.

Joe, owner of Mikhail Holdings Limited along with his brothers Lou and John, is only half joking.

The Windsor establishment, notably the higher ups at City Hall, are adept at giving him the Rodney Dangerfield treatment. They clearly don’t appreciate his blunt opinions on how they conduct business and dole out tax money.

In one recent example, Mayor Drew Dilkens torpedoed Joe’s letter to City Council suggesting a panel of prominent local business leaders be convened to respond to the COVID-19 crisis and plan financial strategies to stave off the recession and looming Depression.

Dilkens inferred that a monstrous task force established by the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WE EDC) is better suited to address pandemic issues.

“Too many voices offering advice would perhaps lower the chances of success,” Dilkens told the Windsor Star.

Dozens of meetings, involving well over 100 “voices” representing various sectors in the regional economy, have taken place since the task force was formed in the early days of the pandemic.

An impressive list to be sure, but Mikhail is not wrong when he observes that many of the same names keep cropping up on the WE EDC website.

“In this city, they all have their own circles,” he says.

Indeed, nine of the 11 WE EDC voting board members are white men, including Dilkens and Lakeshore Mayor Tom Bain.

That board, and several other boards including the four paying EnWin Utilities boards, have been dominated by privileged white men and laden with cronies for several years.

“EnWin is the worst,” says Mikhail, who came to Leamington from Lebanon as a child and quickly had the family work ethic embedded into him, picking vegetables.

“I grew up in the fields,” he relates proudly, noting he sees things differently than many of the people populating today’s city boards and agencies who “never had a (real) job.” Ouch!

Mikhail and his brothers are a long way from

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the tomato fields today, having evolved into an astute business and development partnership.

Mikhail Holdings Ltd. owns one million square feet of commercial and industrial space across the region, including the CIBC, which they acquired 15 years ago. They collect rent from 19 tenant restaurants, in addition to operating a high-end restaurant, Fourteen Restaurant & Sky Lounge, within the CIBC tower.

“We’ve done well in business,” understates Joe, 58, who claims matter-of-factly that he has always been good with money.

The brothers have been in an expansionary mode. They recently purchased a multi-million dollar plaza on Walker Road near Silver City Cinemas.

A sample of what the municipality did as a tonic to assist businesses struggling through the early days of the pandemic was somewhat laughable to Mikhail.

“They deferred tax payments of $200,000 for three months applied in the middle of April, May and June,” he reveals. Come July 1, the city sent him a bill for $800,000.

He had to scramble to make the payment, prompting him to conclude that the tax relief measure helped him not at all.

According to Mikhail, the city treats fellow real estate magnate Shmuel Farhi differently.

That is why he spoke up when City Council moved to waive $363,642 in property taxes on Farhi’s Holiday Inn Express Hotel after he leased the building to Windsor Regional Hospital to house health care workers free of charge to isolate themselves from family members during the pandemic.

Mikhail, who estimates he pays $500,000 a year in commercial taxes on the CIBC building, wrote another letter to Council opposing the tax exemption because other taxpayers would have to pick up the slack.

Council didn’t listen, granting the exemption on August 4. Anecdotal evidence emerged later in August that the hotel beds weren’t being used.

Mikhail says he has nothing against Farhi for pursuing the hospital tax free deal, it’s the city’s approval of the scheme that staggers him.

The Mikhails, who give out free turkeys to the poor during the December holidays, are devoted free enterprisers. Joe shakes his head in bewilderment at the deal the city squeezed out of the federal government on the Paul Martin Building at 185 Ouellette Avenue.

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Early construction of the Mikhail brothers’ plant inside at 2679 Howard Avenue in Windsor.

The feds handed the building to Dilkens for $1 and the city spent $1.77 million to convert it into a temporary library.

Mikhail’s counter proposal was rejected. He offered $2.5 million to the city to renovate the bottom floor for a library, and turn over the top floor to him for residential use.

Joe Mikhail and former Mayor Eddie Francis detest each other. The feud was fueled five years ago when Francis crafted a plan to take The Windsor Club out of the CIBC’s top floor and move it to a Hiram Walker building threatened with demolition.

Meanwhile, the Mikhails have been waiting for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to show up at 2679 Howard Avenue to announce a federal government repayable loan of $3 million, over five years, in support of an exciting conversion of a seven acre, 90,000 square foot property into a pharmaceutical operation that initially promises to create 100 jobs.

“It will be like a hospital room inside an auto lab plant,” enthuses Joe. “It’s a knowledgebased business.”

Brother John, the family’s pharmaceutical operations guru, will be hiring Ph.D.s, scientists and researchers earning six figures a year, and up, forecasts Joe. Trudeau has twice cancelled out of scheduled Windsor events. Not that the Windsor project is anything special by Trudeau’s standards.

The Mikhails would have preferred a grant, over a loan, from the Federal Development Fund (FedDEV).

The Windsor company will be a second location for Markham-based Pancap Pharma Inc., owned by the Mikhails. They chose Windsor Essex to locate the expansion of a new industry because they live and pay taxes here.

Despite the malevolence between the two parties, Council did approve an application from Mikhail Holdings for a grant under Windsor’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) for business expansion.

The CIP would pay back any municipal tax increases at the plant for up to 10 years.

Maybe it’s time to mend the fences.

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FRONTLINES

St. Clair College Grows Again

Barry Zekelman, Chairman and CEO of Zekelman Industries is pictured at the podium during the September 16, “Raise the Roof” press conference.

Photo courtesy of St. Clair College.

St. Clair College is building up a new Zekelman Centre of Business and Information Technology at the school’s Windsor campus situated at 2000 Talbot Road West.

The College has unveiled a unique design that will see the erection of two floors for an additional 40,000 square feet of space to the southwest wing of the campus.

The $23 million expansion will feature classrooms, student study areas, meeting rooms and offices for faculty. A large auditorium (Alumni Hall) and Canada’s first Esports Arena will be the centrepieces of the new build.

Expected completion date is winter 2022.

President Patti France described the project as one that distinguishes St. Clair among other

post-secondary institutions of its size: “This Centre will give our students the resources to study in a space that provides them with vast opportunities to learn and grow.”

The project received provincial approval last year. Funding for the Centre will come from the College, student fees administered by the Student Representative Council, the school’s Alumni Association, and the Zekelman family, for whom the school is named.

“We are thrilled to finally break ground and commence the construction of what will be the area’s predominant school of business,” says Barry Zekelman, Chairman and CEO of Zekelman Industries, North America’s largest

independent steel tube manufacturer. “The Zekelman School of Business and Information Technology will provide a platform for future entrepreneurs to launch their careers and pursue their dreams. We are proud to have our name associated with such a great community institution.”

The Zekelmans have created jobs and economic growth as well as supported countless charities and causes in Windsor and Essex County, through the Stephanie and Barry Zekelman Foundation.

College President France adds: “We are honoured to have the support of the Zekelman family. The business acumen Barry Zekelman brings to the table is immeasurable and our students are fortunate to be able to attend an institution that continues to raise the bar in post-secondary education.”

Survival Of The Thriftiest During The Pandemic Even after being closed for two months because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thrift on Mill store in Leamington has emerged as strong as ever, despite a reduced volunteer force.

Before the pandemic struck, the store had more than 170 volunteers, but is now operating with less than half that number because of social distancing protocols and the fact that many volunteers are elderly and have health concerns.

“We are proud of what we have been able to achieve and the protocols we have put in place have made this store a safe place to work, shop and volunteer,” says General Manager Cindy Epp. “But, it has been difficult and I am extremely proud of all our volunteers and staff for working together.”

The store now has fewer display racks to help with social distancing, one of the entrances has been closed to make it easier to control the number of shoppers in the store, plexiglass screens have been installed at cash registers and all employees and

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volunteers have been issued masks, as well as eye protection goggles or safety glasses.

“We have gone above and beyond to make sure everyone feels as safe as possible,” Epp notes.

When the store re-opened on May 26 after the mandatory shutdowns, Epp informs Biz X there was a deluge of donations and 50 volunteers were called back to deal with the mountain of items.

Neil Quiring, Owner of Gore Hill Self Storage (1126 Mersea Road 1 Leamington; GoreHillSelfStorage.com), donated the use of two storage units to give volunteers ample time to work their way through all the clothing and household items donated by the community.

“Sadly, this pandemic and its aftermath has ended the career of many of our longtime volunteers,” says Epp. “Many have been with us for decades and to see it all end without a proper goodbye is very sad.”

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the Mennonite Central Committee of Ontario (MCC) when they were first establishing a life in the community.

“I’m still so very proud of what we are doing and it’s a gift to be a part of it,” comments Epp. “It certainly takes a village and we are part of a very giving community.”

This year is the MCC’s 100th anniversary and it was supposed to be marked by major celebrations, but obviously all that has been put on hold because of the pandemic.

Located at 58 Mill Street West since February 2016, the store originally opened as the Et Cetera Shoppe in 1982 and is part of the MCC Ontario network of thrift stores.

In Ontario, the committee works in the areas of refugee resettlement, people in poverty, indigenous and Low German communities, as well as restorative justice.

From its Kitchener headquarters, the committee ships material aid, health and relief kits to countries such as Syria, Lebanon and Jordan.

Learn more on: ThriftOnMill.ca.

EVENTPROFILE

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Discover More In Windsor Essex With A Road Trip If you’re looking to stay close to home this fall, why not plan a Windsor Essex Road Trip?

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) wants you to enjoy everything there is to do in your own backyard this fall — like the “Farm-to-Table Finds” itinerary below!

Start your visit off in Tecumseh, on a healthy and delicious note, at Healthy Mama, a locally owned vegan, gluten-free restaurant and market, before heading to Ocean Bottom Soap to pick up some of the finest, hand-crafted artisan soaps and personal products.

From there pay a visit to Walkerville — an area rich in history and full of unique finds.

Shop local artisan wares at the Urban Art Market before heading to Anchor Coffee for an afternoon coffee and baked treat. Make your way through the art-filled alleyway to Robbie’s Gourmet Sausage and pick up a package or two of awardwinning, handcrafted sausages with flavours that will tempt every taste bud!

If you are a fan of comfort food, wrap up this delicious food-centric day with dinner at The Twisted Apron, a Walkerville staple, serving up food that your grandma would make . . . if your grandma was a gourmet chef!

Enjoy a nightcap at Maiden Lane Wine & Spirits before laying your head down in one of the comfortable suites at Towneplace Suites in the heart of downtown Windsor.

If breakfast is the most important meal of

Since many events are postponed this year, it’s time to plan your own adventure! Allsop Farms, 195 Road 3 East in Kingsville, is an ideal spot to include on your fall road trip. You will find a huge variety of pumpkins, gourds, straw, corn stalks, and squash. All local and provincial recommended health measures for physical distancing, sanitization and masks are required for the store, hayrides and the straw pile, as well as anywhere else distances cannot be maintained. Curbside pickup is also offered. Photo courtesy of TWEPI.

the day, make sure to grab a seat at A Dog’s Breakfast and then make your way through the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market for some farm-to-table shopping!

Next, explore the bounty of the county with a stop at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens to pick up their famous cinnamonsugar donuts, before making your way to The Butcher of Kingsville for sustainably raised meats and Lee & Maria’s Market for local veggies and fare.

A night at the Kingsville House Bed & Breakfast will leave you well rested and well fed before you head out to do a

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little picking of your own at Meleg’s Lakeview Orchard.

Head into Leamington to finish finding your foodie shopping adventure at Bradt’s Butcher Block and then sit back and relax with a cold pint of craft beer at Cured Craft Brewing Co., Leamington’s first craft brewery and the most recent to open here in Windsor Essex.

Simply click on the TWEPI website: VisitWindsorEssex.com/roadtrip so you can download this itinerary or create your own Road Trip with their Online Itinerary Builder.

Safe travels everyone!

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HEARD ON THE STREET A new restaurant has joined the ranks of those serving Indian cuisine with the opening of Tandoori Flame & Sweets at 1959 Tecumseh Road West in Windsor, in a space previously occupied by Hong Chow, which offered Chinese cuisine for many years. Tandoori owner Sazzad Bhuiyan brings years of experience at restaurants and hotels in Calgary and Montreal to his new hometown venture.

“I was born and raised in India and took training in culinary arts and hospitality management before I came to Canada 20 years ago,” explains Bhuiyan. As befitting the restaurant’s name, the menu’s focus is on traditional dishes cooked in a tandoori clay oven, which Bhuiyan bought from a supplier in India. “Opening a restaurant in a pandemic is not an easy thing to do, but we have to do something,” he says with a shrug of his shoulders. Menu items include paneer tikka, tandoori chicken, chicken tikka, lamb, mutton and chicken kebabs along with salads, soups and both vegetarian and nonvegetarian appetizers and main courses.

To view their menu, visit: TandooriFlame.org.

Three years after buying The Trophy Boys, owner Al Crankshaw is moving to smaller quarters at Brian’s Source for Sports at 1495 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor.

Cancellation of many sports seasons and banquets has cut into the revenue for Trophy Boys, bringing about the decision to move into a smaller space to cut down on overhead and reduce costs. “It’s a painful, but necessary decision,” says Crankshaw of the downsizing.

“We simply don’t need as much space anymore.” Crankshaw hopes to have the move completed by the end of October once renovations are completed at the new location.

The Trophy Boys store was established more than 30 years ago by Mike Morencie and Mike Urban who purchased Nantais Sports along

with partner Joe Cleroux when they sold their trophy business to Crankshaw. Sonny Stomp established Brian’s Custom Pro Shop in the 1970s in Kingsville and Brian Heaton joined the business in 1979 and began manufacturing custom goalie equipment. Joe Frei Sr. took over the retail end of the business in 1989 and it later moved to a larger Kingsville store before expanding to Windsor in 1993, where it became Brian’s Source for Sports. Joe Frei Jr.’s skills as a skate fitter have seen him work with athletes in a series of Olympic Games and World Hockey Championships. To learn more about both companies see: TheTrophyBoys.com and BriansSourceForSports.com.

A suspension of construction activity, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, has caused the value of construction permits issued by the City of Windsor’s building department, to fall by almost $11 million through the first three quarters of this year. The value of permits issued by the end of August was $259,941,032, compared to $270,724,052 one year ago. The major falloff has been in commercial where permit values fell from $43.2 million to $20.7 million and government and institutional, which fell from $56.9 million to $41.3 million.

There was also a minor decrease in industrial permits, which fell from $24.3 million to $19 million. Residential permits, however, more than held their own with an increase from $146.3 million to $178.7 million. The single major permit issued in August was valued at $1.15 million for a new Princess Auto store at 4315 Walker Road. For the year so far, major permits include $30 million for a 10-storey resident building at 3100 Meadowbrook Lane, $18 million for a new five-floor student residence at St. Clair College and $12.5 million for a new manufacturing plant at 4141 Plymouth Drive.

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Yet another restaurant has joined the ranks of options for fans of Indian food with the anticipated opening of Spice India Street Food and Meat Shop at 6124 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor. The space was previously home to Diamonds years ago, and more recently Eggsmart and Kabab Village. The new owners couldn’t be reached for comment by press time. For hours log on to: Spice-Indiastreet-food-and-meat-shop.business.site.

Chef Eman Sherif is the brainchild behind Montaza Mediterranean Food, a new restaurant in a space previously occupied by Malic’s Delicatessen, which was a long time staple on the Windsor restaurant scene. Sherif, who has years of culinary experience, decided to open Montaza in August, because she wanted to share her love of food from different cultures with a wider audience. “It’s a very multicultural area of Windsor and we serve a variety of foods from different cultures,” she explains. “It was slow to start with, but now with word of mouth getting around, we are getting quite busy.” Montaza features falafel, pastrami, liver and chicken sandwiches, along with salads and both Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes. Sherif also serves Malic’s-style corned beef sandwiches, after the restaurant’s former owners offered to share their recipe and training as well as equipment.

For more information on Montaza, which is located at 543 Wyandotte Street East, go to their website: Montaza.ca.

Spiritleaf, a Canada-wide cannabis retailer, is waiting on final provincial licensing approval before being able to open its latest store in Ambassador Plaza at Huron Church Road and Tecumseh Road West in Windsor. “We hope it’s sooner rather than later,” admits a company spokesperson. “But, we have no timetable at the moment and it’s a matter of waiting patiently.” The company is based in Alberta where most of its 60 plus stores are located. In Ontario, there are stores in London, Ottawa, Stittsville, Kingston, Guelph, and North York. Regulations vary in each province, but in Ontario, Spiritleaf acts as a retailer, selling other company’s cannabis (CBD) products.

Get further details on: Spiritleaf.ca.

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SPOOKY STORIES

Hearing Things Go Bump In The Night?

You Are Not Alone

By Matthew St. Amand Do you hear footsteps when you’re home alone? Have you encountered strange apparitions or believe something is haunting your sleep? So, “Who ya gonna call” (to quote the original “GhostBusters” theme song)?

Canadian Paranormal Trackers (CPT) can help.

Established in April 2018, by Founder and Lead Investigator, Nicholas Romita, CPT helps Windsor residents make sense of the unexplained.

He was inspired by personal experience: “It started at age of three. I saw a tall, dark figure in my closet that was darker than the night.”

Romita is not a psychic or medium, but he is a believer.

He and two associates have investigated occurrences at the Dominion House

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Tavern, the Masonic Temple, Walkerville Theatre, and a friend’s apartment. Using infrared video cameras, digital recorders, an infrared thermometer, and “spirit box”, CPT has encountered dark orbs, a dark figure, and a demon-like entity.

“Our goal is to communicate with the entity and learn why it’s there,” Romita explains. “We attempt to banish them if the client requests. We tell the spirit that we come with respect and no harm will come to them.”

CPT also provides clients with an explanation as to why the occurrence is happening.

“Our success rate is good,” he says. “We want the client to feel comfortable in their home or business.”

CPT is a non-profit organization and Romita points out, “To make people

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Authentic paranormal investigation equipment. . . the Ghost Meter. Photo courtesy of CPT.

understand is our payment, but donations are welcomed.”

Anyone requiring CPT’s services should email: CPTrackers554@gmail.com and leave your full name and telephone number.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEWSFLASH ON THE MOVE Green Envy may have moved to 5530 Wyandotte Street East in beautiful Olde Riverside, but the shop will continue to offer Windsor and surrounding areas, eco-friendly products and a great selection of bulk refills. Owner Kristina Patrick-Khan is excited for their returning customers to see their new home (which features higher visibility and foot traffic) and to meet their new neighbours including Riverside Pie Co. and Plant Joy. Find out more on the shop at: GreenEnvyWindsor.com.

The Town of Kingsville (Kingsville.ca) welcomes John Norton as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) as of September 8, 2020. His most recent tenure was at the Township of Georgian Bluffs as its Chief Administrative Officer.

Previously, he worked at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent holding a number of positions over the course of nine years. As CAO, Norton is the Town’s senior administrator responsible directly to Town Council for ensuring effective day-to-day management of the municipality, while creating a collaborative team environment by engaging with both staff, Council, residents, and businesses.

the Ciociaro Club! Get your social circle together for a Gala Watch Party and pre-order your dinners on the website: WindsorLifeCentre.com. The food will be ready for pick up from Ciociaro Club on the evening of the Gala and 10% of the proceeds will be donated to WLC. Register for the gala at: Givergy.ca/windsorlifecentre.

At the end of August, Julien’s House opened its doors, virtually, to provide services for people in the Windsor Essex region who are experiencing grief due to the death, or anticipated death, of a loved one. Using a companioning approach to bereavement, Julien’s House provides a safe and welcoming virtual environment, where those grieving will meet and share companionship with others who suffered a similar loss — like-minded, like-hearted individuals. Drop-in sessions are available now and restorative programming starts in late October. This includes activities such as: paint nights; Kintsugi (repairing broken pottery through mending); exercise with mediation; walking groups and even breakfast or dinner get-togethers. Refer to: JuliensHouse.ca or email: care@julienshouse.ca for more information.

John Norton: Town of Kingsville new CAO. Photo courtesy of the Town of Kingsville.

THE RUNDOWN Windsor Life Centre (WLC) presents its 11th annual gala (online this year) on October 16, 2020 when the live stream begins at 7 p.m. until 7:40 p.m. Now you can attend their first ever FREE Virtual Gala from the comfort of your home!

The theme is “Celebrating Lives Changed” and 100% of the proceeds raised from the gala benefit their recovery centre and the women receiving treatment. WLC is a local non-profit, residential rehabilitation centre offering six to 12 month programs for women struggling with addictions, and often times, trauma. Among the many features of the virtual gala is a promotional contest sponsored by Suzor Mediation of a 65” Samsung 4K Smart TV with a BOSE Home Theatre Sound System. There is also a Silent Auction, which opens at 5 p.m. on the gala day. (Be sure to check WLC social media accounts before to see sneak peek pictures of items). Once you have registered for the site, you can easily bid on items using your phone — you’ll even be alerted if someone outbids you! And you can even order dinner from

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A few of the founding members of Julien’s House (from left: Christine MacMillan, Colleen Campo, Christine and Germain Gaudet) officially cut the ribbon to signify the virtual opening of their new services. They are pictured in front of the gazebo where the first discussions of Julien’s House first began. Photo courtesy of Callum Hotchkiss.

Inspiration 100 is an exclusive group of 100 community-minded philanthropic leaders in Windsor and Essex County who are committed to building a unique charitable fund held in perpetuity under the umbrella of the WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF.ca). And in mid-September eight local charities received a total of $55,000 from the Inspiration 100 association. The list of those receiving grants is as follows: Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation; Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County; W.E. Care for Kids Foundation; WindsorEssex Therapeutic Riding Association; Autism Ontario Windsor-Essex; Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex County Branch; Family Respite Services WindsorEssex; and John McGivney Children’s Centre.

Not even a worldwide pandemic can shutter the enthusiasm and determination of the Rotary B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 0

Club of Windsor St. Clair when it comes to raising funds for their many charities. That is not to say that careful consideration was absent from the decision to proceed with the 34th annual “Rotary TV Auction” on November 27 and 28, according to this year’s Auction Chair Jeremy Renaud. “Since the earliest days of COVID-19, our members and partners, and Your TV, have been putting our collective heads together to discuss the best and safest way forward,” says Renaud. “It was never a question of whether to hold the auction, but how.” With an assurance that all municipal and provincial protocols will be honoured, the iconic local event will proceed, but with a few new modifications to ensure both public safety and the event’s success. Positive changes include a larger role for online access to viewing and bidding and a streamlined and safe process for winning bidders to pay and collect their items.

The Rotary Club also announces that a memorial award has been established in the name of Robert Scussolin, General Manager of Programming and Community Events for Your TV, who recently passed away. The “Rotary TV Auction” is the local service club’s largest fundraiser event of their calendar, typically generating more than $60,000. Participants can support this event from the safety and convenience of their own homes and local businesses interested in offering items to be featured and auctioned off during the broadcast on Your TV, can contact any club member or email: rotaryclubwindsorst.clair@gmail.com.

HALL OF FAME The Erie Shores Health Foundation (194 Talbot Street West, Leamington; ErieShoresHealthcare.ca) in partnership with the Tango Creative Group (WeAreTango.ca), is proud to announce the “Care Happens Here Campaign” has received international recognition as the 2020 Platinum Hermes Creative Award recipient for Public Relations and Community Awareness. (HermesAwards.com) The purpose of the “Care Happens Here Campaign” is to build awareness, raise funds and engage the WindsorEssex community in supporting Erie Shores HealthCare. Christine Colautti, Executive Director, Erie Shores Health Foundation says “What makes this campaign so special is that it represents real people and their stories; our very own hospital staff, donors and community partners were used in all of our campaign material.” The campaign was launched in January with a goal of $15M in support of a new state-of-the-art Diagnostic Imagining Department and Health Information System. Congrats to all involved!

LET'S TALK ABOUT

Mental Health And The New Noah’s House

Noah’s Mental Health Foundation Inc. opened its doors to its new Youth Centre at the end of August 2020.

Located at 2343 Pillette Road in Windsor, Noah’s House is a drop-in centre for youth and young adults (aged 11 to 25) suffering from mental health issues.

It is a safe space that aims to positively support the individual who is suffering.

Mental health support is available through peer groups, workshops and one-onone sessions (peer to peer and peer to professional).

When an individual enters Noah’s House, they are greeted by friendly staff and have the opportunity to either, sit and “chill” in front of the TV, play board games, participate in craft workshops, or paint.

All this would not be possible without the support of local businesses and community organizations, which rallied together to help get Noah’s House up and running.

Computers for Kids donated computers; a pool table was provided by Unifor Local 444 with its President David Cassidy

Since Noah Butcher-Hagell loved to paint, a few of his paintings hang on the walls inside the centre, including one of his grandparents’ dog, AJ. The heart tree was painted at one of Noah’s House “Paint Night” fundraisers and was donated by Danielle LaFleur.

Photos by Della Jones-Goulet.

donating a sectional couch from his own home; a TV, fridge and microwave was provided by Local 2458 with FASTSIGNS Windsor supplying the interior logo.

A special thank you goes out to the LaFleur family for donating items of their

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Noah’s family members and foundation representatives are pictured at the August 24, 2020 opening of Noah’s House, standing from left: Hannah Butcher-Hagell (sister, Board Member); Laura Starling (sister, President & CEO); Donna Butcher (sister, Vice President); Cassidy Fahringer (summer staff) and Peter Corio (Noah’s friend, Director of PR). Kneeling in front are: summer staff members Meg Gregoire and Katrina Bahnam.

own furniture so they could be refurbished and put to good use.

Noah’s House is dedicated by his family to the memory of Noah Butcher-Hagell, who sadly lost his battle with mental health.

For more information on hours of the centre, please refer to: NoahsHouse.ca.

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THIS ISSUE FEATURES . . .

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Stigma Enigma And Maryvale’s “Meals For Mental Health” November 2 – 8, 2020

By David Clark

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new charitable event is in the works that is perfect for all the foodies out there who enjoy ordering from area restaurants, but also want to help a local charity. Presented by the Stigma Enigma organization, it’s called “Meals For Mental Health” and takes place at various eateries for one week only to support Maryvale Adolescent Mental Health Treatment Centre (Maryvale.ca).

Since their November gala had to be cancelled (due to COVID-19 gathering restrictions), Stigma Enigma is now showcasing 14 fine local restaurants, in a new event, between November 2 to 8, 2020 where a $5 tip (or more) per meal from any of these restaurants will assist the adolescents at Maryvale.

Proceeds go directly to frontline workers and will help to greatly reduce the wait time for adolescents to receive care. Other donations are also gladly accepted, including a recent generous gift from Van Niforos, Owner of the Penalty Box Restaurant.

The Founder/President of Stigma Enigma, Dr. Patrick X. Smith of the Riverside Medical Centre, 7875 Riverside Drive East explains: “The idea came from one of the staff at Maryvale. It’s a great idea as it allows our community to help out our local restaurants that have been hurt

by COVID-19. Of greater importance this year, we are hoping to get our message out to everyone about overcoming the stigma of mental illness.”

Regarding the tasty details, the event offers a wide variety of food, served at

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At Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro and Tabouli by Eddy’s, the Shawarma is a Lebanese masterpiece with either chicken or beef. Photo courtesy of Nikko Ocampo, Axle Films.

the participating restaurants, all around the Windsor region featuring fare from many different ethnicities to satisfy your discerning palette.

The roster of restaurants (at the time of writing) is as follows: Armando’s LaSalle, Armando’s Riverside, Caboto Club, Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro, Factory House, Fourteen Restaurant & Sky Lounge, Franco’s, KOMA (Kitchen Of Michael Anthony), O’Maggio’s Kildare House, Ortona 1864 Café & Panino Shop, Pomegranate, Rock Bottom Bar & Grill, Tabouli by Eddy’s, and Vito’s.

To investigate a few, we will start with an old friend that’s been around for 48 years, specializing in Chinese and Canadian cuisine, the Pomegranate Restaurant.

According to the Pomegranate Manager Emma Chan-Brannagan: “We have extensive menu options and are able to serve

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and accommodate any dietary restrictions without compromising the value and flavour of your meal. Whether you dine-in, order for pick-up or delivery, we treat you like family.”

Coming to your table ready to serve you some awesome eats, a popular dish, the majestic General Tao Chicken, enters the room, steaming hot and spicy. Excite your taste buds with tender pieces of chicken, lightly battered and served in a spicy sweet and sour sauce with green peppers and onions.

The Cantonese Chow Mein (see Contents photo on page 3) is another attraction with a delicious mixture of chicken, BBQ pork and shrimp with select garden veggies on a bed of crispy pan-fried noodles.

Don’t miss the flavour kick in the spicy General Tao Chicken dish at the Pomegranate Restaurant.

Photo courtesy of the Pomegranate Restaurant.

From the sea to your plate, catch the Fire Cracker Shrimp with jumbo shrimp wrapped in bacon, dipped in batter and served with sweet and sour sauce.

“Regarding Stigma Enigma, as a local business, we appreciate the support for this

Like a Veal Parm, the Crispy Tender Veal is a favourite Italian sandwich requested often at Ortona 1864 Café & Panino Shop. Photo courtesy of Giovanni Cassano.

event through the generosity of our loyal customers,” says Chan-Brannagan. “During these unprecedented times we have been supporting each other in a big way.”

You can find the Pomegranate in Windsor at 7816 Wyandotte Street East and online at: PomegranateChineseCuisine.com.

Two other participating notable eateries in “Meals For Mental Health” — Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro and Tabouli

by Eddy’s — fall under the helm of Owner and Operator, Eddy Hammoud.

The fare available for the Stigma Enigma event at these two fine restaurants features a nice variety of choices. The menu includes staples of Lebanese cuisine such as Hummus, Fattoush, a choice of protein and a tasty dessert to finish off the meal.

“Eddy’s is the first location serving a fusion of Italian and Lebanese menus,” says Hammoud. “Tabouli was our second, with a wider variety of Lebanese food. The atmosphere at Tabouli’s is fine/casual dining with entertainment and Eddy’s is much quieter and does casual and fine dining too.”

Unique to Tabouli by Eddy’s, the Mansaf with a fresh piece of lamb shank, cooked to perfection with yogurt sauce makes for a very special meal. Photo courtesy of Nikko Ocampo, Axle Films.

Both locations serve a popular Lebanese dish, chicken and beef Shawarma. They provide 100% pure chicken breast and 100% beef tenderloin, seasoned and cooked as per your order whether it’s the beef or chicken variety. All meals are cooked fresh on the grill.

An item unique to Tabouli is the Mansaf entrée. It includes lamb shank cooked to perfection with rice and yogurt sauce. The shank literally falls off the bone!

A familiar dish from the Mediterranean is

the Fattoush salad, a healthy choice found at both locations. A mixture of fresh-cut produce with exotic veggies inserted into the traditional greens.

“Our main goal regarding the Stigma Enigma event is to give back to the community,” says Hammoud. “Every time you dine with us, our goal is to create great inspired food, and for a week in November, we would appreciate your generosity in donating to this great cause.”

Information on both Eddy’s (420 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor) and Tabouli by Eddy's (1614 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh) can be found at: EddysRestaurants.ca.

In Olde Walkerville, Owners Giovanni Cassano and Vito Maggio operate a classic sandwich shop with lots of character and food worth investigating, solidifying the already great reputation of the area regarding fine restaurants.

Ortona 1864 Café and Panino Shop, 1864 Wyandotte Street East, offers rustic Italian sandwiches of all kinds and small dishes also.

As Cassano explains: “Vito and I opened last November, introducing a sandwich shop with a full service bar and espresso, turning it into a truly unique and casual atmosphere.”

Some of the favourites at Ortona include the Crispy Tender Veal. It is toasted veal with the house signature tomato sauce, provolone, mushroom and caramelized onions.

A classic Italian staple, the Gnocchi Poutine is braised short rib sugo, crispy fried potato gnocchi with bocconcini pearl cheese.

Tasty with a little spice in it to close out the regulars, look into the Black Market Porchetta. A black pepper brioche, rosemary garlic aioli, grainy Dijon, slow roasted porchetta and crispy crackling will leave you with your hands full! (See photos of menu items on Ortona’s Facebook page).

“The reason why we are participating in ‘Meals For Mental Health’ at Ortona, is because mental illness needs more community awareness,” Cassano states. “We need to know that it’s okay to ask for help and not be ashamed of it.”

And that’s what Stigma Enigma is all about!

According to Dr. Smith, “Our mission is to increase awareness with this event and the need for community involvement in dealing with mental illness. Connecting with people in your community doesn’t just feel good, it’s good for your mental health. Your support helps the adolescents and struggling restaurants too.”

The Stigma Enigma organization wishes to acknowledge all of the local restaurants, establishments, owners, and servers who will participate in this event. To see any new additions, check out: StigmaEnigma.ca.

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THE PARENTING BIZ COVER STORY By Jim Murphy and Matthew St. Amand

FALL

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utumn is here, but that’s no reason to hibernate!

Whereas we were all cooped up for many months at home during the shutdown, the kids are now back in school and parents have returned to work . . . the weekend once again has meaning! So make yours count!

For the October issue of Biz X, “The Parenting Biz” explores eight area businesses and organizations that families can either visit together or children can attend after school. Your child can learn life skills or be inspired to dance, play an instrument and even become an artist!

And since everyone is watching their expenses right now, everything is budget friendly.

Let’s start off now with mini golf, first up on our agenda for quality family time.

PUTTER ME UP

For over 100 years, Ure’s Country Kitchen, located at the corner of 6000 County Rd. 20 West and County Rd. 50 in Harrow, has been “all about the fun.”

Here you’ll find a family owned and operated restaurant, ice cream shop, convenience store, gas station, and a new mini-golf course, which just opened in June 2020!

“We offer a large variety of products including breakfast and lunch daily, gas and diesel fuel, dyed diesel, hand-scooped ice cream (Ure’s Parlour & Café), lottery, snacks and a large selection of beverages,” lists Laurie Ure, Owner/Operator of Ure’s Country Kitchen with husband Randy, since 1988. “You will always find a friendly smile, a great story.”

Ure’s Mini-Golf is the perfect outdoor entertainment option for all ages and abilities from two to 92 years of age. The 18-hole course is full of antiques and plenty of water!

When researching for the mini-golf project, Laurie and Randy spent some time in Wildwood, New Jersey with Harris Miniature Golf.

“We toured a whole bunch of mini-golf courses up and down the Jersey Shore all the way to Cape May,” Ure tells Biz X. “Harris is the leader in mini-golf course design and build and they helped with the entire process.”

The mini-golf course will be open, with the water features, until the end of October (weather permitting).

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Way to go, Skyy on a hole in one! As you can see Serna, Mario, Christina and Skyy Balteiro (listed from the left) of Kingsville had a good time at Ure’s Mini Golf recently. The family believes “this course is a great family outing with the perfect amount of exciting challenges for all.” Photo by Rod Denis.

“The fact is that we have so many offerings for our customers,” Ure says. “Our beautiful new patio is great for enjoying an ice cream while listening to the babbling streams, fountains and waterfall on our mini-golf course. The family friendly atmosphere and friendly service provide the joy of watching families having fun on the course!”

For more information, visit their website: UresKitchen.ca.

HORSE N’ AROUND

Have you ever heard of a school where the teachers are horses?

Horse N Hound Stables located at 2427 County Rd. 46 South in Woodslee has been using horses as teachers since 2017!

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Their team of dedicated volunteers provide certified facilitation of Equine Assisted Learning (EAL). This means they provide life skills development and wellness programs that allow participants to work with horses to achieve personal awareness and meaningful direction in their lives.

According to Cheryl Myers, Owner of Horse N Hound Stables, no horse experience is necessary since all activities are done on the ground and there is no riding on the horses.

“As a prey animal, horses provide an experience of connecting to our intuitive voice,” Myers says. “They react to our authentic thoughts and feelings, in an honest yet non-judgmental way, which helps us aspire to better understand ourselves.”

THE PARENTING BIZ SMARTY PAINTS

Cheryl Myers, Owner of Horse N Hound Stables is shown with one of her equine instructors at her Woodslee business. Photo courtesy of Janet Lord.

Myers also tells Biz X that horses require us to access the leader within us, to be a leader for other horses, other people and to ourselves.

Working hands on with the horses builds confidence, trust, teamwork, communication, leadership, authenticity, creativity and much more! Participants learn about respect for people and animals, as well as to share, empathize and be a part of a team.

Horse N Hound Stables offer four, six, eight and 12-week EAL courses for individuals and groups, based on your needs and interests.

Participants interact with the horses by brushing, going through obstacles and making their own obstacles up with the horse.

“Our program is open to children eight years and older, as well as adults, couples, families and teams,” says Myers. “It can help those dealing with anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief and self-esteem issues.“ To learn more about their courses, go to: Facebook.com/HorseNHoundStables.

Looking for something to stimulate the artistically inclined?

The Art Lab Windsor, located at 894 Ottawa Street (the northwest corner of Ottawa and Parent), has many different options for children and adults to explore.

“Between workshops, like Pour Painting & Tie Dye, our awesome birthday parties, field trips and the Splatter Paint Room, there is something there for everyone,” says Samantha Walker, Owner/Director of The Art Lab Windsor. “Our Splatter Paint Room date night package is great for couples looking to try something new and exciting!”

Children as young as 18 months, up to teenagers, can participate at The Art Lab. Walker explains the learner decides where the interactive process will go, the pace and direction of the learning and the pace and direction of the teaching.

Open since July 2018, The Art Lab is a process-based art studio, which means lessons don’t narrow learning opportunities, but instead help to identify the best objectives for each child by looking at the process of learning.

After a job with the YMCA childcare program, Samantha Walker bridged her passion for art and working with children to create The Art Lab Windsor.

Photo courtesy of Samantha Walker.

The Art Lab encourages children to actively explore ways to problem solve through play and creativity. It also helps children to develop social and cognitive skills and gain the self-confidence required to engage in new experiences.

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“All workshops are designed for children, but I have had adult groups request a private session because it looked like so much fun,” Walker tells Biz X. “Most of the stuff we do can usually be altered to accommodate any age group.”

For further details, or to shop for some art kits, visit them at: TheArtLabWindsor.com.

THE APPLE ORCHARD OF MY EYE

Thiessen Orchards, located at 400 Talbot Road East in Leamington, has been home to “farm-tastic” outdoor fun for the whole family since 1974.

Andrew Thiessen, Owner of Thiessen Orchards, has been working in the family business for 38 years — since he was only eight years old!

“We offer apple and pumpkin picking, wagon rides to the orchard, a fun area with swings and slides, a corn maze, a jump pad, putt-putt golf, a haunted barn and lots of yummy food,” Thiessen expresses. “Kids and adults alike can also learn about how a pumpkin and an apple grow, through sign boards around the orchards that describe the process. We also provide a ‘Spookley Pumpkin Story Walk’ that teaches kids about bullying and why it’s not nice.”

All this is offered to families for a nominal admission fee to help cover increased COVID-19 costs.

In 2014, under Andrew’s wife Krissy, The Flower Shop at Thiessen’s opened.

Its rustic and stylish look adds a special flare to the orchard. The shop (website: ThiessenFlowers.com) is open all year round to help people find flowers and gifts for every occasion.

Along with keeping the tradition of flowers and apples alive at the farm, Thiessen tells Biz X that The Flower Shop sells their famous Mennonite Sausage!

Back at the orchard, their staff of three year-round employees increases to 50 during September and October when they get

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THE PARENTING BIZ

On a beautiful sunny day at the end of September, Dr. David Chorney enjoys a family day out at Thiessen Orchards with his wife, Laura Andreozzi-Chorney and children, Matthew (eight) and Lauren (three). The trip was a success with bushels of fun and apples picked, but notice how they are all sporting sunglasses from Chorney Vision Centre! Photo courtesy of Larry Andreozzi.

busy helping families make memories and traditions during harvest season.

For more information on booking a school trip or planning a visit with the family, check out their website at: ThiessenOrchards.com.

BIRDS OF A FEATHER, FLOCK TOGETHER

For more than 100 years, The Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary has

stood sentinel in Kingsville, Ontario, near the shores of Lake Erie. It survived the 1918 global flu pandemic, and it continues to survive the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. The birds will not be denied.

“The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset Monday to Sunday,” says Interim Executive Director, Amanda Everaert. “All ages are welcome.”

Visitors interested in taking a guided tour of the Sanctuary should call or email to schedule one. There is no cost.

“The museum has been redone,” Everaert continues. “There are displays of pictures, giving the history of Jack Miner and his family. Masks are required for all visitors entering the buildings.”

In the Jack Miner family home, visitors can see how the Miner family lived, viewing artifacts belonging to the family, such as different place settings on the dining room table. There is also a gazebo overlooking the front pond.

Everaert explains: “We have five kilometres of walking trails at Kennedy Woods and a log cabin memorial and sarcophagus where people can pay their respects to those honoured there.”

Visitors are welcome to hand feed geese and ducks with barley, which the Sanctuary provides at no charge. Families are free to

Honk, honk! Even though the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary is open all year round, October is the perfect time to visit when a few thousand geese can be seen in peak migration. And if you and your family also want to visit the museum or historic house, it is best to email the staff to schedule a tour. Geese photo courtesy of Marcy Fogal. Museum photo courtesy of Amanda Everaert.

explore the natural landscape and learn about local wildlife and natural habitats. They can also see peacocks, pheasants, wild turkeys, and quails in the bird enclosures.

The sanctuary is located at 332/360 Road 3 West, Kingsville. See: JackMiner.ca to learn more about their history and hours of operation.

Located in Sho Studios

628 Monmouth Rd., Studio #6

♪PIANO LESSONS (ages 5+) ♪VOCAL LESSONS (ages 5+) ♪POP/ROCK PIANO & VOCAL FUSION LESSONS (ages 5+) ♪*“KINDERBOP COMPANY” ENSEMBLE CLASSES (ages 2-5) *Commencing in 2021.

♬ Register TODAY for online or in-studio

lessons! ♬ Call 519-563-9996 or visit

www.featherstonecompany.com

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B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 0

THE PARENTING BIZ MUSIC TO YOUR CHILD’S EARS

On September 8, Featherstone Music & Performing Arts Company officially reopened its doors after the interruption caused by the global pandemic.

The reopening serves as an anniversary celebration, of sorts, given the fact that Featherstone welcomed its first students a year ago, in September 2019. What a year it’s been!

Instructor Ava Droski of Featherstone Music & Performance Arts Company teaches beginner Julia Farough the basic fundamentals of playing a piano, while implementing the full COVID-19 safety formalities.

Photo by Rod Denis.

“We offer piano and voices lessons for kids five years of age and up,” says Featherstone Owner, Ava Droski. “We also have a number of adults coming in for lessons.”

In preparation for the grand reopening, Featherstone redid its interior at 628 Monmouth Road, Studio #6 (inside Sho Studios in Windsor.

Those interested in lessons are encouraged to visit: FeatherstoneCompany.com and either call the phone number or use the email form.

“We offer free consultations,” Droski explains, “and free trial lessons.”

The benefits of music lessons are well known.

“Learning an instrument encourages students to think critically,” she believes.

“They learn commitment and the satisfaction of practicing a piece. If students are involved with a band, they learn teamwork skills that will last them a lifetime.”

Featherstone also has a large number of adults as students.

“It’s never too late to learn,” Droski says.

“For adults, music lessons are a great way to engage all parts of the brain and remain mentally active.”

Droski is a Windsor native and a graduate from the University of Windsor. After teaching music in Toronto for two years, she returned home, saying, “I wanted to give back to my community with music.”

WOULD YOU CARE TO DANCE?

On September 14, 2020, the beat goes

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on at Edmunds Towers School of Dance, reopening for dance classes following months of lockdown.

The students of Edmunds Towers School of Dance definitely were glad to be back in the studio in September! Pictured is a ballet class with teacher Jeremy Towers Bolohan with students (descending from right): Ava MacDonald. Matelyn Levy, Emma Tosic and Mekenna Banh, all observing the two metres distancing rule for COVID-19 guidelines. Photo courtesy of Edmunds Towers School of Dance.

Established in 1981 by owners Dianne Edmunds and Donna Towers Bolohan, Edmunds Towers emerges from the chaos of COVID-19, ready to do what they do best — dance.

“We feel good about what we’re doing,” says Bolohan. “It’s our business, so we’re able to do everything that’s needed to make it safe.”

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THE PARENTING BIZ Some measures are low-tech, but effective.

“We have been preparing for months,” she explains. “Everything has been measured and marked-off. Each dancer has their own ‘stage’ — boxes marked with coloured tape — that is six feet away from the next ‘stage’.

Everyone wears a mask. We follow all health protocols.”

Edmunds Towers weathered the first few months of the pandemic by conducting Zoom video classes. As everyone quickly learned in the early days of the lockdown, video is no substitute for personal interaction.

“Parents are choosing dance because they can be safe,” Bolohan states. “They want to give their kids a place to escape to, where they can socialize and learn.”

She continues: “When we began having students back into the studio, some of the children cried because they were so glad to be back.”

There are many benefits to dance lessons: physical activity, learning poise and grace, socializing with others, following directions.

“Socialization is so important to everyone’s mental health,” Bolohan believes.

Walk-in inquiries are welcome at the studio at 2555 Jefferson Blvd. in Windsor, or further information can be found on: EdmundsTowers.com.

AN ESSEX COUNTY TRADITION

We wrap up our fun fall suggestions with a place known to all. The roots of Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens — the venerable garden centre and fun palace of Essex County — extend back to the sepiatoned year of 1942. (Did dinosaurs still rule Ruthven back then?)

What began as a single vegetable stand in Leamington now spans 35 acres, 3.5 acres of which are indoors. The pandemic has slowed things down, but Colasanti’s is open and accepting visitors on its grounds at 1550 Road 3 East in Kingsville.

“At this time, our miniature golf, arcade, petting farm and garden centre are open,” says Ashley Colasanti who works in the marketing department. “In the interest of keeping things safe, we are offering a slow start with reduced hours.”

Colasanti’s can accommodate 50 visitors, at a time, in each area. Masks are required.

To make life easier, Colasanti’s offers an Activity Package Deal — $10 per person, which allows guests to enjoy some mini-golf and visit the petting farm (tax included).

“We’re also open for dining,” Ashley continues. “There is limited space for dinein, but for those who choose to dine-out, we have moved picnic tables into our east end parking lot, under the trees. And, of course, take-out is also available.”

Full day child care 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Ages 3 months to 12 years Learning through hands-on experience Subsidy available Procedures in place to ensure your child’s health & safety 2 Amherstburg Locations

260 Murray St. & Stella Maris School

Let Little People Play!

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519-736-8400 thecreativechild3.com B I Z X M A G A Z IN E • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 0

What child does not love to munch down homemade cinnamon and sugar donuts after visiting a petting farm?

Only at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens! Photo courtesy of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island.

Colasanti’s makes good use of technology with “contactless menus” displayed as a QR code. Visitors use the QR reader app on their smartphones to view the fare on offer.

Asked how the response has been so far, Ashley says, “Reaction has been very good. It’s nice seeing friendly faces, again, enjoying themselves, the kids laughing, people seeing the animals. Feels a little more normal.”

Find information about Colasanti’s hours, health protocols and all they have to offer on: Colasanti.com.

THE PARENTING BIZ FROM THE “Jackson”: A Story Of The BOOKSHELF Struggles Of Mental Illness Over half of Canadians consider anxiety and depression “epidemic”* and in the midst of this pandemic, countless people are struggling more than ever.

Lynn McLaughlin’s experiences as an educator, friend, family member and parent have driven her to write the captivating story of “Jackson” — a compelling story of a beautiful mother and son bond that is tested by the struggles of mental illness.

Jackson’s mother, desperate to free him from his own demons, faces her own turmoil and anguish, doing anything possible to save her son. After countless emotional, heartbreaking, and triumphant moments, June and her son must both accept that only Jackson can save himself.

While “Jackson” is fictional, it is based on the experiences of many and is an accurate portrayal of the unique and personal battle fought by every family who has undertaken to understand, to help, and to love, when faced with the unthinkable.

It is a book filled with compassion and humanity, but at times painful and

Local Author Lynn McLaughlin aims to help survivors steer through a crisis to discover exciting new paths, both in life and business.

Photos courtesy of the author.

frustrating to read. And its pages promise to bring hope and security in the knowledge that there are pathways through the convoluted and terrifying world of mental health.

As written by Alan Goyette (Clinical Social Worker) in the introduction: “Perhaps most importantly this book not only provides a stark and realistic depiction of how mother and son are dealing with Jackson’s mental health, it also provides the reader with a vision of hope — a potential pathway through the systemic and very personal landmines inherent in Jackson and June’s world — towards understanding and acceptance. McLaughlin puts a human face

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“Jackson” is available in mid-October in many formats: digital audio book, ebook, paperback and hard cover.

on the very fears, anxieties, and self-doubt that are ubiquitous in the world of mental health.”

McLaughlin’s last award-winning book — “Steering Through It” — an autobiography about her experience with a life-threatening illness, was published in August of 2019.

Now, for her next book, a virtual public launch party on Zoom takes places October 21 and “Jackson” will be available the day after for purchase on Amazon, at Chapters, Indigo and other bookstores.

To learn more log on to the author’s website: LynnMcLaughlin.com/jackson. (*Refer to: CMHA.ca/documents/over-halfo f - c a n a d i a n s - c o n s i d e r- a n x i e t y - a n d depression-epidemic).

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portfolio corner

It Begins With Fear

By Steven Mayo

There’s an old expression: “never let a good crisis go to waste.”

I’ve seen a few of these crises since my career started in 1984 — the 1987 Stock Market Crash, 1990 Recession, 2000 Tech Wreck, 2008 Great Recession, 2010 European Crisis, and now, the great disruption of COVID-19.

Each crisis is rough on people and portfolios.

Given time and resiliency both can bounce back.

We have already seen many companies adapt quickly to the COVID-19 crisis and we have also seen earnings from big companies be quite good.

Technology companies have benefitted the most from the “stay at home” orders and ongoing “work from home” preferences, but looking to other sectors for 2021 is the next step.

In general, we want to get some normalcy back in our lives, and I think we will.

With this comes an increase in demand for the products, commodities, and services we used to consume regularly.

For example, renewed “downtown traffic”,

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entertainment, travel, and dining returning to normal.

All these consumer activities have a long way to go, but we may be getting closer to the old times.

Investing in forgotten sectors may provide nice portfolio surprises in the New Year.

Consider another example, high quality Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs — particularly Apartment, Office, and Industrial) and energy/ pipeline companies have not been this low in price (relatively speaking) since the last major crisis in 2008. If the world recovers similarly to after 2008, then these two sectors will do better, primarily benefitting from a “return to normal” demand for their services or commodity. In the meantime, with fear comes a 20% off sale.

We are already seeing improved demand for commodities with just China’s recovery.

Here is an indication of China’s demand dominance, their 2019 Annual Consumption as a percentage of Global . . .

• 64.3% Iron Ore imports • 53.3% Copper Consumption

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The city of Shanghai in China, a country that is now a global economic leader.

• 34.5% Passenger Car Sales • 29.2% Smartphone Sales • 13.5% Crude Oil Consumption

Source: RBC Wealth Management Portfolio Advisory Group

It doesn’t take much to see how perceptions can change about certain investment areas, if demand improves.

It’s during times like these that institutions and pension funds go hunting for premium assets.

They have to think long-term and they have to diversify. Individual investors can do the same.

To quote Marilyn Monroe, “Within crisis, are the seeds of opportunity.”

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

THE WAY IT WAS

A 50 Year Tradition Of Performance Excellence

By Andrea Grimes

W

hat are some of your recollections of Windsor in the 1970s?

Was it that gas in Windsor was 0.36 cents a gallon or that you attended the opening of Devonshire Mall on August 12, 1970?

Perhaps it is that you stood in line for the annual Birks “Plum Sale”? Or maybe you were so absolutely passionate about music and military tradition that you joined a Canadian Armed Forces band?

History shows that the ’70s marked a pivotal turning point (changes and challenges) in Canada’s military from redesignations to imposing a single set of uniforms for all three services.

These changes also determined the presence of our local military bands — HMCS HUNTER, Windsor Regiment (RCAC) and RCEME (The Corps of Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers).

Captain Beth Dykeman (retired Director of Music, Windsor Regiment Band) says, “With the subsequent reorganization of Canada’s military, all three Bands were disbanded in 1969 resulting in an amalgamated military band as the Windsor Militia District Band. Captain Lasse Pahjola was the first Director of Music in 1970 followed by Captain John Gimpel.

Chief Warrant Officer Grant Peifer was the Bandmaster from 1969-75 and Captain Age Smies, (a young music educator who emigrated from the Netherlands) served as Director of Music from 1975-87.”

In the ’80s, the Band was renamed Windsor

District Military Band. At that time, Mobile Command stated that only 15% of a unit could be female members but Captain Smies was instrumental in having the directive eased for the Band.

Under his direction, the Band performed for H.M. Queen Elizabeth II and H.R.H. Prince Philip, in Toronto on October 2, 1984.

In 1987, Chief Warrant Officer Marlene Holmes became the first female Band CWO in Canada. Holmes took over the Band at this time and was eventually commissioned to the rank of Captain.

The Windsor District Military Band became the Windsor Military Band (WMB) in 1991 falling under the command of London Militia District. Captain Dykeman became the Director of Music in 1996 and held that position until 2018.

According to Dykeman, “In June 1997, the WMB became a regular performer at the Hamilton International Tattoo (later called the Canadian International Military Tattoo). In September 1997, the Band became a sub-unit of 31 Canadian Brigade Group (London). The WMB travelled to Dieppe, France in August 2006 to rededicate the Dieppe Memorial at Red Beach with the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment.

Later that year, in November, the Band was transferred to the Windsor Regiment (RCAC) with another name change to the Windsor Regiment Band.”

In recognizing the Band’s 50th anniversary (1970 to 2020), the Windsor Regiment Band, under the direction of Lt. Andrew

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The Windsor Regiment Band is pictured at the Major F.A. Tilston, VC, Armoury February 11, 2017.

Photo courtesy of the late Ed Goodfellow.

Shaw, (Director of Music) will showcase its commitment to achievements in our Canadian Military Music heritage with an anniversary celebration to be held in October 2021.

Military music not only fills many hearts with a stirring sense of patriotism; it contributes to our national identity lending itself to foster “esprit de corps” honouring the memory of all Canadian Armed Forces Armoured Corps soldiers, including its bands.

Do you recall where you were the first time you heard the Quick March “My Boy Willie” of the Windsor Regiment?

(Youtube.com/watch?v=jEfslWDdfrk) It honours the memory of all who had the privilege to serve (and continue to do so) — a commitment made to safeguard our Canadian values of democracy . . . “fighting to the front of our battle cry.”

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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HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE

Connecting Virtually Serves A Purpose In New Alzheimer Society Fundraising Efforts

By Joe McParland

A

s with most organization’s annual events affected this year by COVID-19 restrictions, the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County (ASWE) has rebranded their traditional fall fundraiser, “Coffee Break” to “Social with a Purpose”.

The Windsor launch of “Social with a Purpose” took place on September 1, 2020 to coincide with “World Alzheimer’s Month”.

This is a do-it-yourself fundraiser promoting the importance of socializing, staying in touch and building a strong positive relationship with your friends, family, and community.

A “Social with a Purpose” fundraiser is hosted virtually and can be held anywhere and in any way, until November 30, 2020.

What are you doing to stay connected and come together during this time of physical distancing? Make your connections more

Quick Facts • It is estimated 564,000 Canadians are living with dementia, with 7,850 persons over the age of 40 in Windsor and Essex County living with dementia.

• In 15 years, this figure will increase by 66%, to 937,000.

• For every person with dementia, one or more caregivers are providing care.

• The Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County provides programs and support services to help people with all forms of dementia, in addition to assisting their caregivers and families with living as well as they can.

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Taken outside the ASWE building, Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator Shannon Van WatteghemLevasseur (insert and far right) makes sure that masks were worn during this “Social with a Purpose” promotional photo shoot. Game Nights are a great idea for a fundraising event, as shown from left by: Cullen, Victoria and Jo An Booth with Jennie Jacobson playing Connect 4, while Tara McBride and Adrian Kosla enjoy a game of Crokinole.

Photo by Rod Denis.

special and meaningful by supporting people living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and their care partners who experience social isolation every day.

For example, turn your weekly online card game with friends or book club video chat, into a fundraiser. Be creative and add a game or task everyone can partake in during your call and highlight the importance that coming together can have by supporting others.

Have any special skills? Try hosting an online paint night or cooking class and ask for a donation!

Don’t want to be the head chef?

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They have you covered with easy to use digital kits to host your own “Social with a Purpose” fundraiser that you can invite your friends and family to join!

Available digital kits include: a Paint Night; Sing-a-long Concert; Date Night with cooking lessons; Wine Tasting with your own Sommelier and Game Night where you can host a board game or card tournament with the family for ultimate bragging rights.

However, there is one in-person component to “Social with a Purpose”.

On October 11 and November 1, 2020 a yoga event, “Downward Dog for

Dementia” is planned at the Alzheimer Society of Windsor, 2135 Richmond Street.

Shannon Van Watteghem-Levasseur, ASWE Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator emphasizes: “The donations raised by leaders of the various social events will be used to help cover the expenses of the local community’s social and recreation activities. The money raised locally, via pledge sheets, will stay local.”

The power of coming together and hosting a “Social with a Purpose” fundraiser will provide those living with dementia and their care partners needed social recreation programming. Social recreation programs have been proven to improve life quality and reduce isolation, something we have all experienced over the last few months with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Your donations from “Social with a Purpose” go a long way to improve the quality of life for so many of our loved ones and friends.

For example, a fundraising donation of just $30 will allow a person living with dementia and their care partner to attend two sessions of “Minds in Motion” — a vital program that provides physical exercise, social interaction, and brain stimulation activities with other clients, volunteers, and staff. “Minds in Motion” has been offered virtually during the pandemic and is one example of the excellent work happening in social recreation at the Alzheimer Society.

In 2019 the “Coffee Break” campaign in Windsor Essex had 150 hosts and raised over $27,000. It is hoped this year’s “Social with a Purpose” will exceed this total and sponsors Biz X magazine, along with Colonial Coffee Co. Ltd. (see: ColonialCoffee.ca), are doing their part as well to help make the fundraising goal become a reality!

As Van Watteghem-Levasseur reminds us: “Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia strike every community and consume entire families. No one should have to face this disease alone. Residents of Windsor and Essex County, show that you care by registering and fundraising for ‘Social with a Purpose’. This is a great reason to stay connected with those you love!”

To host your own “Social with a Purpose” fundraiser, go to: AlzheimerWindsor.com and click on the “Social with a Purpose” link. Upon registration you will immediately receive a customized web page with a unique link to share and promote your fundraiser.

So put your thinking cap on and come up with a creative idea of your own! Use this opportunity as the perfect excuse to get together virtually with your friends and family and raise a few bucks for a great charity.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROFILING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN Story And Photo By Julianna Bonnett

Diana Giorgi

Always Making A Great Impression

T

he mission of business owner Diana Giorgi of Game Gear Attire, is to be a one-stop shop for all her customers.

With only a single-head embroidery machine that she had in her house, being used regularly, Giorgi ended up making her love for embroidery a business.

Raised in Michigan, she went to secondary school for Fashion Merchandising and in her younger years, she opened a few clothing stores.

“I always had a passion for wedding and bridal,” Giorgi recalls. “My sister in law, at the time, had a bridal salon, so I would help her make dresses, but the business ended up failing because too much money was going out and not enough was coming in.”

In 1980, Giorgi moved to Windsor and in 1996, she opened Game Gear Attire located on 6909 Concession Rd 6 N in Amherstburg.

Since 2010, she's expanded her business, to not only include embroidery services, but also silk-screen printing.

“When we added the silk-screen printing, the business became busier,” Giorgi mentions.

“All of the women I work with daily are local residents. Some live in Amherstburg, others in LaSalle or Leamington. I’ve always believed in a locally owned and operated service.”

Each work day, Giorgi wakes up at 7:30 a.m. to start checking emails immediately with most of her customers getting their quote within the first 24 to 48 hours after asking. Afterwards, she gets right down to work with her employees with her days ending around 6 p.m.

“There is so much prep time and clean up that goes into this work,” she says. “The embroidery machine only goes so fast and we're determined to get as much done in the day as we can.”

Diana Giorgi, Owner and Operator of Game Gear Attire (a division of Dimensional Embroidery) in Amherstburg, is all smiles after investing in a new Sabre fully automatic Workhorse silk screen machine, which can print up to six colours per design or logo.

Back in March, Game Gear was closed for two months due to the COVID-19 shutdowns, but Giorgi still feels like business has been good, regardless of the small set back.

“To recoup those two months is probably not going to happen and that is two months out of my life that I won’t get back,” she comments.

“For right now, sales are good, but what will happen in the next few months is hard to say because every year we’re used to doing stuff for school teams and clothes for events, so we’re unsure at this time.”

Offering garments and gear that are embroidered or screened on-site, Giorgi ensures the highest quality work is maintained with most orders completed within a few business days.

“We work so hard every day to get done all the things that are needed to get done,” she shares. “Even if I have to work more than I usually would in my day, I’m OK with doing that because it’s what I love to do.”

According to Giorgi one of the most important things she learned being a businesswoman is to always listen to what your customers want.

“How do I put this?” she asks.

She continues: “If you make a mistake, they will not want to eat it (the cost). One of my girls always says ‘you’re only as good as the mistakes you can fix’ and I believe that to be true.”

Regarding advice for other entrepreneurs, Giorgi believes the best thing to do when starting any business is to learn what you are doing before jumping in cold turkey.

“I’ve seen a lot of people try to start a business like this and what they do is just buy a machine and think: ‘OK I know how to do this’ without even allowing themselves time to learn all aspects of the business first,” Giorgi indicates.

Of course, she now has a proven track ​ record in business and her company welcomes all customers, including large corporations, small businesses, schools, organizations, clubs, and teams. They also accept personal orders for showers, weddings, baptisms, graduations and other events.

As for her personal life, Giorgi has two older children — one living in another city and one at home with her. She is able to balance her work life and personal life well.

For more information on her company and to see catalogues, check: GameGearAttire.com.

XX FILES

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TECH BY TES

Building Mental & Physical Resilience To Stress

By Dr. Derek Anderson

We hear it all the time. That stress impacts our performance, personal relationships, and decision-making.

That everyone should have a long-term strategy to help deal with stress, just as you would create a strategic framework for your business.

Instead of avoiding stress, why not meet it head-on and make your body more resilient?

The key to determining how resilient you are to mental and physical stress is by using specific physiologic measurements.

The best metric that captures this is your Heart Rate Variability (HRV).

HRV is a measure of how efficiently your body can toggle between the two parts of your nervous system: the parasympathetic nervous system (allows you to digest your food, recover, rest, etc.) and the

sympathetic nervous system (gears your body up for stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, etc.).

Having a higher HRV means that your body can quickly bounce back and forth between these systems and, ultimately, be able to handle higher stress loads.

A lower HRV can indicate that your body is working harder than it should at rest due to various factors, such as fatigue, lack of physical fitness, stress, dehydration, poor diet, or illness. A lower HRV makes it difficult for you to respond to the impending physical and mental hurdles, robbing you of focus and performance.

There are three ways to raise your HRV through fitness.

1.

Dosing exercise correctly — if you want to build yourself into a force, progressively increasing the amount of

WINDSOR |

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exercise tailored to what your body can handle is extremely important.

2. More frequency, less intensity — less intensity more often will allow you to create a change with less overall stress on your system.

3. Vary your workouts — create a more profound impact on your body by varying your intensity and activities based on your body’s current state.

As entrepreneurs and business owners, our lives are dedicated to our businesses.

That said, we must ensure that we are operating at our optimal performance to see the same successes in ourselves that we expect for our businesses.

Taking care of your health means taking care of business!

“Tech Bytes” is powered by WEtech Alliance (WEtech-Alliance.com). The guest columnist for this issue Derek Anderson, Doctor of Chiropractic, is the owner of Ignite Health, a clinic/gym hybrid that uses chiropractic care, RMT services, and fitness coaching to meet patients’ wellness objectives. It is located at 1825 Manning Road in Tecumseh and online at: IgniteHealth.ca. Dr. Anderson resides in Tecumseh with his wife, two children, and their goldendoodle, Rio.

CHATHAM

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STCLAIRCOLLEGE.CA

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FEATURE STORY By Dave Hall

When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going!

How the local fitness industry stayed in shape during and after the shutdowns

W

hen COVID-19 forced the closure of businesses across the region, including fitness clubs and gyms, the industry quickly pivoted and began offering online classes and outdoor workouts to their members.

For club owners and personal trainers, keeping their members and clients connected and working towards their fitness goals became even more important without the daily face-to-face contact.

One such club is MOVATI Athletic, an Ontario-wide chain with its roots here in Essex County, which recently opened its 17th club at 650 Division Road in Windsor.

It also has clubs at 400 Sandwich Street South in Amherstburg and at 313 Main Street East in Kingsville.

MOVATI, founded by existing partners Chuck Kelly and Rick Quesnel, started out in Windsor as Total Fitness 23 years ago and has since grown across the province.

“I am excited that we have had the opportunity to be able to come back to Windsor where it all began and show our members what an incredible product we have to offer,” expresses Quesnel, MOVATI’s Vice-President of Construction.

The new Windsor location — which encompasses 70,000 sq. ft. and was built

by Fortis Construction Group Inc. at a cost of $20 million — includes all the features available in the company’s Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa clubs such as spa-like amenities, six boutique-style fitness studios featuring a Hot Yoga Studio, an open-air Sky Studio, a Cycle Studio and multi-purpose studios.

There are also two pools, a private women’s only area, the latest in studio fitness programming and state-of-the-art strength and cardio training equipment.

The club, which has about 2,400 members, has a two-storey atrium lobby featuring a modern décor, a café, lounge with a view of the adjacent family pool, and an outdoor patio.

There’s space on the main floor called MOVATI Fuel for multi-purpose training and a roster of personal trainers on staff.

Mitch Mayville, an area native who moved back here from Ottawa to become

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MOVATI Athletic is more than a gym. Vice President of Construction Rick Quesnel can attest to that as he stands in the “Cycle Studio” where the lights, colour, sounds and big screen TVs create an exceptionally unique, motivational experience. Photo by Rod Denis.

the club’s Personal Training Manager, says the club worked one-on-one with members from home until the club opened August 21.

“Making that connection is very important in helping our members reach their fitness goals,” Mayville emphasizes.

“The best trainers aren’t always the most energetic ones, it’s the trainers who can connect with their clients who can make a difference.”

Mayville adds trainers can change a person’s lifestyle and those who can get clients into a gym, when they otherwise might not want to be there, are the ones who will be successful. In turn, that success rubs off on their clients.

“We’re constantly trying to find a way to utilize what we offer to meet our client’s needs,” he states.

MOVATI bills itself as more than a gym and believes it can deliver a personalized fitness experience in a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

“We have a phenomenally hard-working team that ensures all facets of club

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operations are addressed on the highest level and they challenge one another on a continual basis to make sure we stay on top of our game,” adds Quesnel.

All of the recently-mandated protocols are in place, including a sign-in desk, cleaning, sanitizing and scrubbing of the club and its equipment after every class, spacing of machines and reduced fitness class sizes so that members can practice physical distancing.

Air filtration systems were upgraded in all of MOVATI’s clubs, cleaning is done between classes and after-hours, using hospital-grade disinfectants, and sanitizing stations are set-up throughout the club for easy access by members.

General Manager Dean Kissner invites the community to stop by the club and experience the MOVATI difference. You can read more about their services and classes on: MovatiAthletic.com.

While MOVATI may be the newest and largest addition to the fitness club sector locally, there are many other gyms

across the region that also offer premier services and personalized programs at affordable prices.

Biz X magazine has put together a small review of a handful of health clubs to help readers make their fitness and wellness selection.

Garage Gym

When COVID-19 forced fitness centres to close their doors, Tony Smith, owner of two Garage Gym locations with his wife Dani, shifted their focus to online in-home instruction to keep their clients active.

“We were closed for six hours then went online and now every class we run is online,” explains Smith. “It’s very useful and convenient for our at-risk clients and also for parents who want to work out during the day, but can no longer bring their children with them.”

The online app, available on the gym’s website, provides a live feed into the gym and is also popular with shift workers who can now work out at home.

“We’re also able to watch our clients working out and we can make suggestions if they are doing any of the exercises incorrectly,” adds Smith.

And the fact that instruction and workouts

From left: Casey Wright, Head Trainer; Nikki Paltridge, Trainer/Director of Sales; Garage Gym owners Tony and Dani Smith and Stephanie Crawford, Trainer/Assistant Manager invite you to enlist in the Garage Gym Army in Amherstburg or Kingsville. Just make sure your brain can push your body well past your perceived limits! Their entire team aims to help their members achieve results beyond what they ever thought possible. Photo courtesy of Ryan Ouellette of Lomer Photography.

remained virtually seamless during the first four months of the pandemic, meant that their clients stayed active and continued using their memberships.

With the gym using mostly free weights,

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Smith says he was able to lend all of his barbells and dumbbells to clients so they could work out at home.

Now that the gym has re-opened, class sizes have been reduced from

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M E N TA L H E A LT H & ADDICTIONS

P. 519.254 .2112 F. 519.254 .0093 probgamb@hdgh.org gamblerhelp.ca

20 clients to 15 and the gym shuts down for 30 minutes between sessions for a complete cleaning. Clients are not able to share weights anymore, in order to prevent any incidental contact, and weight stations are further apart than they were before.

“It’s labour intensive, but it’s what we have to do to keep our clients and ourselves as safe as possible,” explains Smith, who has 13 employees including five who work full time.

Personal training sessions are available by appointment.

The gym has two locations, the first at 227 Sandwich Street South in Amherstburg, which opened six years ago, and a second at 17 Chestnut Street in Kingsville, which opened three years ago.

Membership fees range from $155 to $185 monthly, which includes unlimited group classes as well as live online instruction.

Working with a personal trainer is extra.

For further details on pricing, services and trainers, visit: TheGarageGym.net.

True Fitness

In addition to physical fitness, members at the two True Fitness locations are encouraged to work on their mental health as well, according to owner Luis Mendez.

Luis Mendez, President and CEO of True Fitness, specializes in weight loss and weight management programs. Building, toning and recruiting lean muscle also fall under his area of expertise, as do power training methods for strength training and sport specific training. Photo courtesy of True Fitness.

“This current health situation has thrown so many curveballs at people who are suffering financially, and at parents who have home-schooled their children, while also working from home that it’s not surprising mental health is a big issue right now,” comments Mendez. “But, if you can put all that aside for an hour or so and work on reducing stress, then you can start to worry about how you look naked in front of a mirror.”

In order to keep members and staff safe, Mendez has added a host of new protocols, including more hand sanitizing stations; a check-in table to facilitate contact tracing; key fobs so the gym can only be accessed

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by members; traffic flow arrows to keep people moving in the right direction; the use of masks where physical distancing is difficult; six feet between workout stations; and regular full-gym sanitizing and cleaning.

The gym, which has 750 members at its two locations, also focuses on personal one-on-one training, by appointment.

The 4897 Tecumseh Road East location opened seven years ago, while the downtown 443 Ouellette Avenue location opened three years ago.

Membership rates are $34 monthly or $29 monthly for seniors for a one-year commitment, which provides 24-7 access to both locations.

Log on to: TrueFitnessWindsor.com for more information.

Riverside Family Fitness

Owners Joey and Julie Flores weren’t able to offer online classes during the COVID-19 shutdown because membership fees are based on facility visits, according to Julie.

“But, as soon as we were given the green light to begin preparations to re-open, we reached out to the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit and have followed their suggested protocols to the letter,” she explains. “We took every second machine out of service, marked the floor to help people maintain social distancing and we require everyone to wear masks when they are moving around the facility.”

The owners also purchased two cleaning machines — including one hand-held unit — that are used to completely disinfect and sanitize the club and its equipment every two hours.

“As a result of taking the safest approach possible for our members, we have seen a great many return and we have also signed up a large number of new members,” she says. “I think people feel comfortable when they see others wearing a mask and it’s the safest way to make sure the virus isn’t spread among our members.”

For now, the club’s steam room and sauna remain closed, but the pool is open.

The Flores offered free six-month holds on memberships so members wouldn’t lose any time while the club was closed during the pandemic.

Membership fees are $19 on a bi-weekly basis and allow access to all the amenities in the 15,000 sq. ft. club at 6700 Wyandotte Street East, which previously was home to Precision Fitness and many years ago, Vic Tanny’s. The couple have owned the business for almost six years.

Refer to: RiversideFamilyFitness.com to view photos of the facility, videos and more.

Fury Training Grounds

Keeping training sessions fresh and different virtually every day is the best way to keep fitness aficionados from getting stale and skipping workout classes, says Fury Training Grounds owner Jennifer Cassidy.

“You will never do the same workout two days in a row or even three or four,” stresses Cassidy, who opened Fury in March 2013.

“Nobody knows what they are going to face and that keeps them coming back.”

Fury was launched in a small space at the old Essex Kinsmen Club before moving to a 4,000 sq. ft. location at 26 Fairview Avenue West in Essex on May 5, 2019.

“As we kept adding members, equipment and services, we needed more space,” Cassidy points out.

Now, Cassidy is able to offer five workout classes a day plus yoga, spinning classes, boot camp workouts and cross training sessions with the help of two instructors.

The club also has a variety of free weights, barbells, bikes and rowing machines.

“We care about our members to the point that if a regular misses a couple of classes, I will make a wellness check phone call to make sure everything is okay,” states Cassidy. “We’re a close group and we care about each other’s health and wellness.”

During the closure caused by COVID-19 restrictions, Cassidy offered free online workout sessions to help keep members active and in touch with their trainers.

“Everyone was having a tough time back then, including our clients and staff and it was a great way to stay connected,” she says.

After battling through some initial bureaucratic red tape, Cassidy re-opened for outdoor boot camps in mid-July, before opening the doors again a month later.

“We have all the sanitizing equipment in places, our floors are marked, our members have to sign in and they each receive a small basket with hand sanitizer, disinfectant and paper towels,” she explains.

Membership rates for full club access and unlimited boot camp workouts are $40 a month and $75 a month for full access and unlimited cross training sessions.

There are additional fees for use of personal trainers as well as yoga and spinning classes.

Go to: FuryTrainingGrounds.com to see how you can be inspired!

Shred Shop Inc.

When Sawyer Telegdy was forced to close the doors of her seven-month-old fitness centre in March, she immediately pivoted and rented out all her free weights and movable equipment to members and made it all available for curbside pickup.

“We also live-streamed classes on Zoom and provided fitness tutorials so our members could continue training at home,” she informs Biz X. “We hosted online nutrition seminars and added a wine and social component on Friday nights to keep everyone in touch and connected.”

Telegdy says more than 50 percent of the membership responded to her initiatives.

Once the region moved into Stage 2 of the province’s re-opening plan, and in preparation for Stage 3, Telegdy launched parking lot workouts in early August before re-opening on August 15.

Since re-opening, class sizes have been reduced from 24 to 16 members and the break between classes has been extended from 15 minutes to 30 minutes to allow for a thorough cleaning of the building at 815 Erie Street East, which houses the Shred Shop as well as Elevate Health Boutique.

“I think there was a pent-up demand for activities and once we re-opened we have been extremely busy,” adds Telegdy.

The club has about 230 members and all memberships were placed on hold until the club re-opened.

Some memberships held by potentially high-risk members remain on hold until they are comfortable returning.

In addition to a variety of free weights,

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Shred Shop owner Sawyer Telegdy works on a kettlebell routine with member Savannah Dupuis at the gym on Erie Street East.

Photo courtesy of Katie Meloche/Wren Photo Studio.

the equipment also includes kettlebells, tires and yoga balls.

Membership rates are $175 monthly on a one-year commitment or $215 a month with no commitment and that includes access to the all facilities as well as yoga and Zumba classes.

To see a schedule of classes check out the website: ShredShop.ca.

LaSalle Fitness

Management at LaSalle Fitness offered outdoor classes and shared videos during the lengthy closure before welcoming back members in mid-August.

“We have found that people have been anxious to get back into a fitness routine and once we opened again, we have been very busy,” indicates Manager Daniel Hong. “We have all the social distancing rules in place and we have spread out our equipment to make it easier for members to stay apart while they are working out.”

The club offers 75 minute workout

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blocks and then staff spends 15 minutes or so sanitizing the entire gym, as well as wiping down all the equipment before another workout block starts.

Hong adds: “We have found that our members are so encouraged by being able to work out and train again that we have had no complaints about the new rules. It’s for everyone’s benefit — staff as well as our members.”

In addition to regular weight training, the club offers aqua-fit classes for beginners and advanced participants for a high-energy buzz designed to increase your heart rate and challenge your entire body.

There are also aqua-arthritis classes and full cardio workouts in the pool.

As well, there are personal training sessions and high-intensity spinning classes, again for beginners an advanced members.

The club, located at 5841 Malden Road, has been in business for many years under a variety of owners, according to Hong.

Membership rates are $30 a month on a one-year commitment, $40 a month or a six-month commitment or $50 a month for pay-as-you-go.

For more information, visit their website: LaSalleFitness.com.

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Impact Health And Fitness Centre

Owner Faith Monaco offered free online classes on Facebook during the COVID-19 mandated closure and then staged outdoor classes in the parking lot with a variety of equipment, including spin bikes.

“Our classes have been full since we re-opened because I think a lot of people were going stir crazy,” Monaco believes. “We have all the social distancing rules in place and we do a regular complete and thorough cleaning of the club.”

Impact Health and Fitness Centre, which encompasses 15,000 sq. ft. and has 600 members, includes free weights, 15 treadmills, tires for resistance training and separate rooms for female members and group classes. It is situated at 88 Talbot Street East in Leamington.

There are also lockers, a protein shake bar, saunas and a large warehouse/garage-style room with free weights and a variety of challenging pieces of equipment for serious weight trainers.

Monaco reports there were a few membership cancellations as a result of the pandemic, but she has also picked up 60 new members since re-opening.

The club also has a stock of extra masks, microfibre cloths for wiping down equipment and extra sanitizing stations. The showers at the gym are open, however, the sauna remains closed for now.

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Membership fees range from $39 a month to $432 annually. For a breakdown on pricing options, see: ImpactHealthAndFitness.ca.

Staying Fit For Life

As you have just read, the clubs we profiled here have a lot to offer and the choice is up to you to decide which business you visit. Yet, even with all their different amenities, they each share one common goal — getting you off the couch and into the gym to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

So, whether you like to lift weights, exercise on a treadmill, swim, take a yoga class or just work out at your own speed, local fitness centres can keep you motivated, offer training and companionship, plus they're a great place to be to relieve stress!

We all know exercise gives you more energy and being physically fit can combat many health conditions and diseases. With all the viruses in the world we must fight these days, it’s more important now than ever to look after your body! So what are you waiting for?

TAKE THE LEAD

Staying Organized With Cas "Clutterbug"

By Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh

H

ow did shopping at the dollar store change the life of Cassandra Aarssen and help her go from “clutter queen” to “home organization leader” with her television show on HGTV? Aarssen admits she struggled with clutter and mess for the first 30 years of her life and describes herself as a “super slob” who has tried hundreds of times to get organized.

She felt like a hamster on a wheel, living in a constant cycle of clutter, until she finally beat her demons.

One trip to the dollar store to buy a bunch of dishpans to organize was the catalyst that changed her life.

“I had bins for paid bills, important documents, and instead of dressers, bins labelled PJs,” she recalls. “I realized I organize differently than traditional methods of one size fits all.”

She continues by stating: “The real change came when I started thinking outside the box, quite literally. I struggled with detailed organizing systems, like filing cabinets, containers with lids, or systems where I had to stop and think about putting an item away.”

A macro organizer, she uses large categories with fast, simple systems, like lidless containers, adding, “Micro organizers prefer a detailed system with lots of categories and multiple, smaller containers.”

Eventually, her home became organized.

Then she started helping others discover their organizing type and develop systems that work for their style.

“I discovered that there are four different organizing styles and systems, which I called ‘Clutterbugs’ — Butterfly, Cricket,

Cassandra Aarssen is the Host of HGTV’s “Hot Mess House,” a Social Media Influencer, Author and Creator of “Clutterbug”.

Photo courtesy of Lively Creative Co.

Ladybug, and Bee,” she notes.

This became the basis of her business, Clutterbug Organizing Services which includes a YouTube channel, Blog, Podcast, four best-selling organizing books and a show on HGTV called “Hot Mess House.”

(HGTV.ca/shows/hot-mess-house) “I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of thousands of families from all over the world discover their organizing styles and get organized for good,” she shares. “None of this happened overnight, it was a slow growth that started from my struggle (turned passion) with the life-changing power of organizing.”

Aarssen’s advice for young leaders and entrepreneurs is to “Do what you love and the money will follow.”

She outlines that: “The greatest power of social media is connecting you with billions of people from all over the world,” adding “You only need a small percentage of those people to share the same passion as you, to turn your hobby into a profitable and thriving career. It takes time to grow a following and create ways to monetize, but if you love what you do, it will never seem like work.”

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Her role model and inspiration is Peter Walsh, the “King of Organization.”

“Ten years ago I was drowning in clutter when ‘Clean Sweep’ came on TV,” she admits. “Walsh and his words of wisdom and advice inspired me to give organizing one more chance.”

Aarssen believes a good leader is humble, relatable, and honest, and someone who can inspire, educate and entertain.

“They show us what to do instead of telling us,” she states, pointing out “I prefer gurus who have struggled and overcome challenges and can inspire me to do the same thing.”

Her most asked question is: “How can I get my spouse to help around the house?”

There is still an expectation that women are in charge of cleaning and organizing everything, which can cause negative and resentful feelings about housework.

She does housework and organizes for herself because she likes a clean home and it makes her life easier.

“I focus on what I can do without putting expectations on others, which leads to disappointment and resentment,” she reveals.

Once she started being grateful, her family saw the benefits and wanted to help.

What’s next for Clutterbug?

Aarssen hopes for another season of “Hot Mess House” on HGTV and the continued growth of her brand. She loves people sharing Bee or Cricket organizing tips with others and wants the Clutterbug Organizing Philosophy to be around long after she is gone.

Curious about your organizing style? Take the free Clutterbug quiz at: Clutterbug.com!

Sherrilynn Colley-Vegh is an award-winning leadership consultant with over 30 years of experience; past principal and Chief Communications Officer, author and business owner. She is the founder of Girls Rock Windsor, recipient of the prestigious Athena Leadership Award and is the Director of Public Relations at Music Player Magazine where she mentors interns worldwide. If you know a leader in the community to profile here in this column email: Sherrilynn@BizXmagazine.com.

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ask the experts

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Dealing With A Flat Or Low Slope Roof? Trust A Professional!

By Dave Halliday

M

aybe it is the small commercial building that you purchased as an income property. It might be your office. It may even be that unconventional addition at the rear of your house, but one thing is for sure . . . you need to have confidence in the low slope or flat roofing system that may be protecting your investment and property.

The first step towards peace of mind that you’re getting a high quality and reliable flat roof installation, is dealing with a recognized, professional roofing contractor.

We are blessed in this region with many such qualified and reputable roofing contractors.

We at Biz X were able to discuss some of the finer points of low slope roofing with Steve Zold, Owner of Riverside Roofing Inc., located at 1340 Matthew Brady Boulevard in Windsor (see them online at: RiversideRoofingInc.com).

Riverside Roofing has been installing roof systems in the region since 1948 and Zold has 53 years of professional experience to share with us.

He opens by informing us that: “Over the history of our company, at some point, we have worked with Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Windsor Salt, Nemak, and both the Public and Separate School Boards.”

He adds, “We have also installed roofing for numerous other owners of industrial and commercial buildings.”

Due to these amazing references, reliability and experience, we decide that Zold is the perfect person to answer all our questions on the matter at hand.

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A single ply TPO roof replacement may be the perfect option for your peace of mind. Photo courtesy of Riverside Roofing Inc.

What types of services should a professional roofing contractor be capable of providing? “Roof system analysis and maintenance are key components to providing quality service to a client,” states Zold. “These functions provide the basis for the decisions the client must make. Whether it be targeted repairs or complete tear-off and re-roofing, your roofing contractor must have the expertise to carry out what is required.”

What are the signs that your existing low slope or flat roof is experiencing issues? “Visual indications of cracking and blistering are the typical early warning signs of an issue,” Zold indicates, adding, “Active leaking is always a bad sign and

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hopefully issues can be identified long before it comes to that.”

What should one expect from their prospective roofer prior to starting the work? He replies: “In order to protect themselves the client should ensure that the roofer is fully insured and has all of the required safety certificates up to date and in-place.”

Are there things the building owner can do to help guarantee the longevity of the roof system they have in place?

“Carrying out scheduled inspections of the roof system, in both the spring and fall, is highly recommended,” says Zold.

“Removing debris from the roof and clearing roof drains to ensure efficient drainage is always a key contributor to the overall reliable service life of your roof system. Water ponding should be avoided.”

Should a reputable roofer offer follow up service on a roof installation? “Yes, that is one of the key benefits to obtaining the services of a local, qualified, roofing contractor,” he stresses.

Last question. If you were to reroof Riverside Roofing corporate headquarters, which system would you be likely to install? Zold answers: “I believe I would go with a 60 mil TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) due to the simplicity of the application and the longevity of the membrane.”

So whether you choose to go with a traditional built up roof system, a two ply modified bitumen application, or a singleply application, we can guarantee the end result will always be better if you start by consulting a roofing professional.

AT HOME

Safety Reminders For Your Home Office

(NC) As many of us continue to work remotely, having a functioning home office is essential.

From lighting to storage to décor, there are several factors to consider, so it’s easy to overlook safety.

Here are some key steps to help ensure your new workspace is safe as well as productive.

Safeguard your computer. With hackers exploiting the increase in remote working, it is critical to keep operating and antivirus packages up to date. Perform frequent updates to help prevent malicious software from invading your computer and network.

Change your passwords regularly and back up your files.

Avoid overloading outlets. Each year, electrical malfunctions account for 35,000 home fires, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International. Make sure your outlets contain Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs), which can prevent fires caused by damaged or overheated wiring or electrical devices. In case of an emergency, keep the easy-to-use First Alert EZ Fire Spray in your home office to quickly defuse small electrical fires. The light aerosol can design makes it easy to hold, use and store.

Set up a clutter-free space. Keep your work area organized to prevent potential hazards. Avoid injuries by keeping scissors, staplers and all sharp or heavy office tools, away from the edges of desks, especially if you have children or pets. Secure all phone lines and electrical cords along a wall or under a desk to keep them away from heat sources and high-traffic areas.

Install and maintain alarms. Beyond the office, installing smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms will help protect your entire home. For optimal protection, install working smoke and CO alarms on each level of the home, inside every bedroom and outside each sleeping area. To properly maintain your alarms, test them regularly, change the batteries every six months and replace the units every 10 years.

Find more home fire safety tips at: www.newscanada.com FirstAlert.ca.

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To Infinity And Beyond!

The Sky Is Never The Limit With Millennium Strategies . . .

OF THE MONTH

By Dave Hall

A

fter working as a consultant for three of Canada’s four major political parties, Eric Renaud decided to open his own digital marketing agency and launched Millennium Strategies five years ago.

The Windsor company focuses mostly on digital marketing, social media campaigns and website design, for clients in both the political, commercial and retail sectors. Renaud is currently working on a lease agreement for a downtown office, to start at the end of October.

“We work with our clients to help them focus on the demographics and audiences they are trying to reach by targeting those groups to get their message across,” explains Renaud. “Multi-media advertising can be expensive and it doesn’t always reach the audience you are seeking.”

Millennium Strategies bills itself as a team of leaders, creators, builders and problemsolvers who work with ambitious people, organizations and brands hoping to change the world with their products, services and leadership initiatives.

Their services come in two categories.

First is advisory, which provides strategic advice to help clients understand digital transformation, anticipate future trends and develop innovative techniques. The second part is digital with videographers, developers, designers, marketers, analysts and strategists helping clients create a successful digital road map.

And it works for clients of all shapes and sizes, including small family businesses.

Onorio DeRose, owner of Home Furniture Outlet at 870 Ottawa Street in Windsor, started working with Millennium Strategies four months ago, after a casual conversation in the store, when Renaud stopped by to shop for furniture.

“He cleaned up and updated our website as well as bringing our social media presence

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Owner Eric Renaud of Millennium Strategies is an expert at combining creative ideas with digital innovation to deliver high-impact, measurable results, no matter what the industry may be. He is pictured putting the finishing touches to one of his retail client’s web pages. Photo by Rod Denis.

to a new level,” explains DeRose. “With the high cost of advertising, you need to be on social media to reach your audience in the most cost-effective way possible.”

As a small business owner, DeRose says he doesn’t have the time to focus on updating his social media activities, so he’s turned it all over to Renaud.

“It’s the cost of doing business, because I believe you have to spend money to make money and I’m very happy with the results,” he adds. “Our site is more legible, contains more product photos and is much easier to navigate than before.”

Hits on DeRose’s website have increased from a few hundred to well over 60,000, all of which represent potential new customers, according to Renaud.

Renaud currently has 35 clients with one-third of those considered local and the rest spread across Ontario in the retail, commercial and political sectors.

“Business slowed down during the pandemic as businesses cut back on their spending, but it’s picking up again as people realize that to bring customers back through their doors, they have to increase their social media spending,” Renaud mentions. “Marketing budgets are often the first items cut from the balance sheet, but

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they should also be the first ones to be restored once business begins to return to normal.”

A scatter-shot approach to advertising and marketing is no longer cost-effective in a digital, highly competitive, consumerdriven marketplace where targeting the right demographic can yield instant results, Renaud notes.

“It’s when you have gone through a downturn like everyone has in recent months that you need to redouble your efforts to rebuild your client base,” he states. “For retailers, there’s a potential pent-up demand among consumers to spend again, especially if they have cut back on their travel plans.”

The same can be said for commercial clients and even political parties, because it’s still all about getting their message into the right hands.

Renaud, who was an accountant before launching his own agency, started out working on political campaigns and immediately saw the importance of targeted messaging.

“We currently work with two of Canada’s main political parties and their goal is, and always has been, to be at the forefront of digital messaging and marketing,” he comments. “And that’s where our expertise comes to the forefront.”

See more at: MillenniumStrategies.ca.

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