NEWSFLASH FEBRUARY 2025 – Windsor Public Library; OGVG’s Matt Marchand; Keith Andrews, Invest WindsorEssex; Ryan Donally, Windsor Chamber; Douglas Marketing Group; Essex Region Conservation Awards & Danny Gautama
THE RUNDOWN
The Windsor Public Library has expanded its service to take the guesswork out of operating hours in 2025. Since early January nine branches are now open seven days a week, and hours of operation are
standardized across the board (only the Local History branch is unavailable on Sundays). “We’re making access to the great services our library system provides, a seven-day-a-week opportunity,” explains
Library Board Chair Mark McKenzie. “We know families need books, computers and programming all week long, and this service expansion provides that.” The open hours for the nine branches are: noon to 8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. all other days, including Sundays.
Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers of Leamington, have appointed Matt Marchand as the new Public Affairs and Policy Analyst as of early January 2025. Previously, Marchand was President and CEO of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce and most recently a consultant for IG Wealth Management. “I am very pleased that Matt has decided to join our team and provide his extensive experience and proven track record in business, government, and community relations,” states Richard Lee, OGVG Executive Director. “His strategic vision and dedication to excellence will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of our organization.” Marchand’s role is essential in providing insights and recommendations that help shape effective and impactful public policies, at all levels of government, to support Ontario greenhouse vegetable farmers. “It’s humbling to join a fantastic team representing the greenhouse sector,” comments Marchand.
Invest WindsorEssex (IWE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Keith Andrews as Strategic Advisor to the Board of Directors and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 1, 2025. In this leadership role, Andrews oversees day-to-day operations and serves as the organization’s most senior executive. He brings more than more than 30 years of extensive experience to this position, having held senior executive roles with Gateway Casinos and Entertainment Ltd., Caesars Windsor, and the Province of Ontario. Drew Dilkens, IWE Board Chair and Mayor of the City of Windsor states: “His proven track record in public and private sector leadership, combined with his commitment to our community, will be invaluable as we work together to create a regional strategy ensuring ongoing economic growth and development. I am confident that Keith’s expertise and vision will position Windsor Essex for continued success.” Andrews will work closely with the IWE Board of Directors for a period of six months to prepare a new strategic plan and review operations, ensuring alignment with funding-partner and regional stakeholder expectations and contributions. The recruitment for a permanent CEO will continue while Andrews undertakes his work on behalf of the Board.
Ryan Donally is the new President and Chief Executive Officer for the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce as of late January 2025. A recognized leader and strategic thinker, Donally brings an exceptional track record of leadership across economic development, municipal government, academia, the arts and athletics. His diverse experience and deep-rooted commitment to the Windsor Essex community positions him to steer the Chamber’s mission and vision forward. With an MBA and Bachelor of Commerce from the University Of Windsor’s Odette School Of Business, Donally last position was the Chief Growth Officer for the Municipality of Lakeshore where his team led projects through the municipal development process. “I am inspired by the opportunity to lead the Chamber as we champion Windsor Essex businesses regionally, nationally, and internationally,” Donally expresses. “I look forward to continuing to deliver high-quality benefits and resources to our membership while exploring new and innovative ways to build value and return on investment.”
HALL OF FAME
Windsor’s Douglas Marketing Group (DMG), rang in the new year with six international awards for 2024 as the agency for Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG), St. Clair College and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Windsor-Essex Branch. “DMG is proud to work with our clients to build international award-winning relationships and outcomes that advance their marketing and objectives,” says Kay Douglas, DMG President. Notable achievements include a Marketing Excellence Award by Produce Business for the innovative OGVG Greenhouse Goodness takeover at Windsor International Airport (YQG). The campaign, designed to showcase the benefits of Ontario-grown greenhouse produce, is a multi-year installation that greets residents and visitors upon arrival at YQG. St. Clair College received top honours from EduAd Awards, a national panel of higher education marketing and advertising professionals, for the 2024 Recruitment Campaign and 2024-2025 Admissions Handbook. St. Clair College, OGVG and the CMHA Windsor-Essex Branch were also recognized at the Hermes Creative Awards. CMHA received a Platinum Award for their Bereavement Resources and OGVG and St. Clair College took home the Gold for their Greenhouse Goodness and Equal Consideration Campaign.
Six organizations and individuals were honoured with Essex Region Conservation Awards for their contributions to creating a sustainable future of the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region at ERCA’s Annual General Meeting, on January 23, 2025.“It’s very inspiring to have the opportunity to celebrate so many organizations and individuals who have made an incredible impact on the environment,” states Molly Allaire, who was acclaimed as ERCA’s Chair. Winners included: Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO) Windsor/Essex Branch — John R. Park Homestead Award, for its advocacy work in protecting the region’s heritage buildings while providing guidance and support to other heritage organizations across the region; Andrew Pula —Education Award for a 25-year career dedicated to engaging students in environmental initiatives and on-the-ground stewardship opportunities; Wayne King — Volunteer Award for his efforts in documenting changes to Hillman Marsh and engaging the community in its restoration; Green Sun Rising — Volunteer Award for its many activities to transform to a clean energy system, while supporting a wide variety of tree planting and environmental initiatives; Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary — Environmental Achievement for its 120 year old legacy of conservation, including conservation education, outreach, and property-based restoration efforts; and Gina Pannunzio — Dennis Chase Staff Award for her kindness, optimism and dedication to a future of conservation.
Congratulations to Danny Gautama, a Biz X Blogger and Writer who has earned an award from the Kingsville Times (an online newspaper) for his articles and its social media sites. Kingsville Times Publisher Mary Ellen Havlik and Editor Jody Smith presented a certificate for the Elite Award to him last month for his loving inspiration of others concerning mental health. Way to go Danny, you are such an amazing inspiration to all!
