NEWSFLASH JULY/AUGUST 2024 – AMHERSTBURG FLASHVOTE: DON MARTEL; COMFORT KEEPERS WINDSOR; AMHERSTBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WINNERS; WINDSOR SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA; FORD CITY POTTERS; ALL DRESSED WINDOWS; BLIMEYS; KHAN COURTS VOLLEYBALL
THE RUNDOWN
Biz X Cup of Joe Columnist, Joe McParland, has a brother he recently discovered in 2022 (see the article) — Don Martel, a seasoned adventurer and philanthropist. On July 1, 2024 Martel embarked on an extraordinary journey — an around-the-world cycle tour. His ambitious expedition aims to raise awareness and funds for individuals living with dementia, a cause close to his heart. At age 66, Martel has a passion for cycling and a heart dedicated to making a difference. With considerable experience in long-distance cycling expeditions, he has logged in excess of 15,000 km throughout Canada with trips in 2015 (west to east) and 2019 (north to south), generating $48,000 for the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County (ASWE). His current global odyssey has him pedalling across continents and through diverse landscapes. Along the way, he is sharing his captivating experiences and pictures (as he is a well-known professional photographer), connecting with local supporters, and engaging with societies dedicated to dementia awareness and support. Supporters worldwide can track Martel’s progress in real-time through a live map and follow his adventures on various social media platforms, accessed on the ASWE website listed below. He expects the trip to take 18 to 24 months. The funds generated from this monumental journey will be channelled towards the ASWE, enabling them to uphold their commitment to delivering high-quality services and support to individuals affected by dementia and their caregivers. Join Martel on his remarkable journey as he pedals towards a brighter future for those affected by dementia, one revolution at a time. Individuals interested in making a gift to his campaign can donate online.
In early June the Town of Amherstburg launched Flashvote, a cutting-edge tool designed to streamline and enhance community engagement by gathering resident opinions quickly and efficiently. It allows residents to participate in short surveys that take less than one minute to complete, ensuring that everyone can have their voice heard with minimal effort. Residents participate using smartphones, computers, or even home phones, ensuring broad accessibility. Flashvote operates independently of the Town, so all personal data is protected and responses remain anonymous. And once a participant completes a survey, they receive a notification when the survey results can be viewed. Residents can sign up online.
Comfort Keepers Windsor, a dedicated provider of in-home care services, has recently undergone a significant transition. The business was officially taken over by Zim Njoku in December 2023, with the full transition completed in late March 2024. This change marks a new chapter in the company’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors and other adults in need of assistance. Founded by Adam Budrewicz in May 2011, Comfort Keepers Windsor has been serving the local community for 13 years. Under Budrewicz’s leadership, the company established itself as a trusted name in home care, known for its compassionate and personalized services. His dedication to the community set a high standard, and Njoku is eager to build upon this strong foundation. Located at 5980 Tecumseh Road East, Suite 210, Comfort Keepers Windsor offers a comprehensive range of services, including personal care, housekeeping, companionship, and specialized care for individuals with chronic conditions. The team is dedicated to providing top-notch care that allows clients to maintain their independence and dignity. “I am excited about the future of Comfort Keepers Windsor,” says Njoku. “Taking over this business has been a rewarding challenge, and I am committed to continuing the legacy of excellence that Adam established. My goal is to expand our reach and ensure that even more families in our community have access to the quality care they deserve as we continue to elevate the human spirit.” Comfort Keepers has a significant presence across Canada, with over 50 franchises nationwide and 750 internationally, each committed to the same high standards of care. For more information about the local franchise visit online.
HALL OF FAME
Congratulations to the 2024 winners of the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC), 19th annual Business Excellence Awards, presented in late May. “We had a full house at the McGregor Columbian Club to recognize and celebrate excellence in the Amherstburg business community,” comments Anne Creery, ACOC General Manager. ACOC President Dan Gemus emceed and Town of Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue brought greetings to the guests. The list of recipients is as follows: the inaugural Believe Amherstburg Award: Richard and Colleen Peddie; Large Business of the Year: Jack’s Organics; Small Business of the Year: Team Rehab; Business Legacy: Ure’s Country Kitchen & Variety; New Business of the Year: Flow Café & Bikes; Employer of the Year: Canadian Tire Amherstburg, Dwayne Mackey and Anjelisa Skinner; Professional of the Year: Ashley Harmon, Hogarth Hermiston Severs LLP; Health Care Professional of the Year: Dr. Andrew Cormier, Amherstburg Family Health Team; Young Professional of the Year: Linden Crain, Dominion Lending Centres Super Mortgage Team; Entrepreneur of the Year: Tom Manherz, Wolfhead Distillery & Restaurant; Most Attractive Improvement: House of Shalom Lofts, Jones Realty; Excellence in Customer Service: Speck’s Restaurant; Tourism/Hospitality: Bondy House Bed & Breakfast; Community Service/Charitable: Windsor Essex Bike Community; and Youth Engagement/Leadership: Lauren Baillargeon.
NEW IN BIZ
Windsor’s vibrant cultural landscape has expanded with the May opening of its first full-service pottery studio situated at 994 Drouillard Road on the lower level. As you can see by its name, Ford City Potters pays homage to the historic neighbourhood the studio calls home. The business is the brainchild of two passionate artisans, Gisele Bick and Lisa Gabriele, who both discovered pottery in high school, under the mentorship of the same teacher, Jerry Jarecki (who is also a member of the studio). Their paths converged 30+ years later, when the pandemic brought Gabriele, author, TV and podcast producer, back to her hometown of Belle River (where she has since relocated). Recuperating from a broken wrist, her chiropractor suggested she start using it again. She remembered how pottery gave her hands a good workout and using Google to search local classes she found Bick, an established local teacher, one town over. Pottery fixed more than her wrist! It healed her mind and repaired her attention span, frayed by overworking in the isolation of the pandemic. She was hooked. Bick’s journey to pottery is more personal and moving. Sixteen years ago, her beloved husband gifted her with a chunk of clay, some tools, and a pottery class, because they had met in high school art class and became sweethearts. Not long after giving her that gift, he died of a heart attack. She took the pottery class while mourning, and something about working on the wheel brought her back to herself. She found healing and her calling through clay. Now her husband’s work hangs in their studio. Together, Bick and Gabriele hope to tap into the global resurgence of pottery — a craft that blends physicality, creativity, and mindfulness. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and “AI everything,” pottery offers a grounding experience and a much-needed mental escape from tech, and the daily stress of life. Their goal is to create a warm, inviting space where locals can immerse themselves in the incredibly fun and therapeutic art of pottery, a practice that changed both of their lives. Enthusiasts of all skill levels are invited to start their pottery journey, among other potters, in an inspiring, dynamic neighbourhood. From hand-building and wheel classes, special events, exclusive memberships and personalized one-on-one sessions, there’s something for everyone.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO . . .
All Dressed Windows, 1159 County Rd. 22 in Emeryville is celebrating 20 years in business! What started as a hobby for owner Danielle Albano, making drapery for her new home in Windsor grew into a full time business where she now has her own showroom/workroom out in Emeryville. Sewing is her passion and after 20 years it still is! All Dressed Windows carries a full line of fabrics, drapery hardware, blinds and shutters. This is your one stop shop for anything that can be sewn for the home. Stop by and see what she can create for you! Book a consult online.
This year, Blimeys British Store & Gift Shop, 71 Talbot Street North in Essex (right next to the Spitfire airplane), celebrates its 10th anniversary. A family run business owned by Carl and Rita Hulme, with their son Mark running the day-to-day business as the Store Manager, the trio credit their success due to their amazing staff. And they have enjoyed tremendous growth thanks to their loyal customers and strong relationships with suppliers. Inside their shop you can find thousands of items from the U.K. such as sweaters, clothing, jackets, boots, jewellery, gifts and collectibles, and of course all your favourite foods from back home! The business is also a three time Biz X Award winner. Check out their products and shop online.
ON THE MOVE
The Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) announces the appointment of Geoffrey Larson as the new Assistant Conductor, joining the esteemed orchestra family for the 2024-2026 seasons, as of July 1. Larson brings a wealth of experience, along with a rich background that includes Music Director of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra and Chorus Master and Assistant Conductor of Berkshire Opera Festival. Larson states: “I was impressed by the stellar artistic level of the musicians and leadership in Windsor, and their deep commitment to community engagement. I look forward to our musical journey together, and to fostering the extensive artistic partnerships in the Windsor Essex region.” He is poised to contribute significantly to the WSO’s mission of connecting people through music. Founded in 1947, the WSO supports a thriving Youth Orchestra, Community Orchestra, and volunteer Chorus. The orchestra has a rich history of delivering captivating performances that inspire and delight. Since 2013, the WSO has performed under the direction of Music Director Robert Franz.
The new home of the shipping container restaurant, Frate Street Food is now at the Hotel STRY, 70 Murray Street in Amherstburg. Co-owner Rob Nesbitt, (who shares ownership of Frate with his partner Nicole Stach) explains: “We had an opportunity to work with Lauri Brouyette and her son Kaine (Hotel STRY owners/developers). We built out a brand new fully equipped shipping container that will serve up unique tacos, burgers and street food with a global fusion flare. There is also an amazing patio/courtyard and food is available to hotel guests and the public.” The owners were hoping to be fully open in July. View mouth-watering food shots and their latest news on their social media page.
SUMMER SPORTS
Attention all volleyball enthusiasts! Whether you’re a serious athlete or a casual player, the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) is inviting you to get ready to elevate your game at the Khan Courts. Located in downtown Windsor, the Khan Courts are designed to provide the best beach volleyball experience for everyone. The DWBIA’s advanced online booking system allows users to secure court time effortlessly, anytime and from anywhere. With flexible booking options, users can reserve their court by the hour, for a full day, or for special events. Rental fees are: DWBIA Members ($40/hour, capped at $400 for extended use) and Non-Members: $50/hour, capped at $500 for extended use. Booking is a breeze! Simply visit online, select the preferred date and time, confirm the reservation, and get ready to play. But that’s not all. Beyond court reservations, the website is a hub for the volleyball community. Stay updated on upcoming tournaments, events, and opportunities to enhance your game. Connect with fellow volleyball enthusiasts and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to the sport. May the spike be with you this summer!