FROM THE PUBLISHER – Rodney Denis Photography Turns 35 As We Publish Issue #285

With the release of the June publication, we celebrate our 285th edition!

Since we began back in 1998, we have consistently published 10 issues a year except for the April and May 2020 issues which were forced to be combined due to the pandemic and businesses being closed with no mail delivery possible.

As you know, my family is a big part of all I do, but there are also many freelancers who I refer to as “Biz X family”.

In particular, one individual who has been with me since the magazine began, is professional photographer Rodney Denis. He’s also celebrating a milestone — 35 years in business.

With more than four decades of experience behind the camera, Denis has explored a wide range of subjects, from fashion models to vintage automobiles.

A proud graduate of Fanshawe College’s photography program, he refined his craft in bustling cities like Toronto, Halifax, and Detroit before making his way back to Windsor in 1989.

“I did not expect to be that busy,” Denis reminisces, recalling his early days upon returning to the city.

Not long after his arrival, Windsor Raceway invited him to take on the role of track photographer for their publicity department.  At the same time, he began to delve into commercial photography, collaborating with Partners Marketing to shoot for In Business Windsor magazine in the early ’90s. It was here, while I was their Assistant Editor, that our paths first crossed.

His collaboration with local photographer Tim Cornett, eventually led to the creation of DenCor Photography. However, as Cornett ventured into other pursuits, Denis took the opportunity to establish the business Rodney L. Denis Photographer in 1991, working with esteemed clients like Chrysler, Labatt Breweries, and Canadian Tire.

After I made the move to Opinion magazine to start The Business Exchange, Denis came with me. And when I went out on my own in 1998 to publish Biz X, he was right by my side again. “I was excited to be part of Deborah’s magazine as I knew she had a long-term winner,” he comments.

As the world of photography continues to shift with technological advancements, Denis holds a belief that black-and-white art photography will always have a special place, provided it remains genuine.

“Anything with a challenge has its greatest appeal,” he notes, referencing unique endeavors like capturing a Dodge Viper on the Ambassador Bridge for the Business Exchange as well as 28 creative Biz X Award covers.

“Photography has taken me to places that I never would have seen or experienced,” expresses Denis, but as for the future, he muses: “Cameras? Where we’re going, we don’t need cameras!”

As Denis gears up for the next chapter of his life, his impact on the Windsor photography scene is undeniably solidified. I’m grateful he is on our team — his photos are a part of our success, frame by frame.

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BIZ X MAGAZINE JUNE 2026 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 6

ON THE COVER — Spanning The Future (#9 “The Gordie”) — 18. The Gordie Howe International Bridge and its striking profile now reshapes the skyline on both sides of the border. It signals a new era of crossing that will fuel economic momentum for our region — and strengthen trade, support jobs, and drive long-term growth. Nicknamed “The Gordie,” the bridge honours legendary Canadian hockey icon Gordie Howe — “Mr. Hockey” — who spent most of his career wearing #9 for the Detroit Red Wings. In this special extended HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE cover story, Joe McParland digs into the bridge’s facts and history, its ambitious build, and the local companies whose work helped bring this once-in‑a-generation project to life.

LOCATION: Captured from the Canadian side of the bridge in the second week of May 2026, this image was shot using an enterprise-grade drone equipped with a 200x zoom lens, taken from roughly 1.4 km away near the Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway. PHOTOGRAPHER: Mike Chase of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography, one of the few Transport Canada Advanced Licensed and fully insured Drone Operators in the region. To view videos on The Gordie, go to: WindsorAerialDronePhotography.com.

CONTENTS JUNE 2026

4 Funny Stuff
5 From The Publisher: A Double Celebration, Biz X Issue 285 & 35 Years Of Rodney L. Denis Photographer.

6 Awards Spotlight: TWEPI’s BOWE Winners. On the historic Capitol Theatre stage, Co-host of the awards ceremony Jason Toner (left), Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI), took the mic to guide a packed house of finalists, partners, and community leaders through the big moment — the unveiling of the 11th annual Best of Windsor Essex (BOWE) award recipients. Cheers, anticipation, and plenty of hometown pride filled the room as the winner in each category was announced, with TWEPI CEO Gordon Orr also sharing in the emcee duties. Ready to find out which businesses, attractions and activities in the local tourism and hospitality sectors earned the region’s votes? Turn to page 6! (Photo courtesy of TWEPI).
10 Front Lines
11 Newsflash
12 Biz X Was There
14 XX Files: The Doctor, The Professor, The Beauty Queen — Meet Dr. Rasna Gupta
15 Mel Knows . . . Kinda: Treasure Hunting At The Habitat For Humanity Windsor-Essex Re-Store
16 Windsor Food Spotters Feature Food Spots
26 Charity Profile: How St. John Ambulance’s Skilled Hands And Gentle Paws Are Making A Difference
27 Ask The Experts: From Ants And Rodents To Insects And Wildlife, Gray Wolf Pest Control Can Protect Your Home From Unwanted Guests.

28 The Parenting Biz: Happy Days, Cozy Stays, Confident Training & More For Your Pampered Pup Pets are more than “just pets” — they are family! Today’s pet care is all about quality and expertise. From enrichmentfilled daycare and trusted boarding to professional training and expert grooming, we introduce you to three local businesses that care for your dog as much as you, your spouse and children do. (Photo courtesy of Kounty Kennels & Kritters Inc. showcasing their brand-new facility in Harrow)
33 Milestones: Ronald McDonald House Windsor Enters Next Decade With Record-Setting $3 Million Boost

JUNE IS SENIORS’ MONTH
34 Feature Story: Supporting Seniors In Motion, The Businesses And Organizations Enriching Lives Across The Region Rackets up, spirits high. The couple shown above make their way onto the court — embodying the 2026 theme for Ontario Seniors’ Month, Let’s Get Moving. Each June, this provincial celebration recognizes the invaluable contributions older adults make across Ontario’s diverse communities and highlights the importance of advocating for and supporting a strong quality of life. Our very own senior guest writer Andrea Grimes speaks with businesses and organizations dedicated to supporting seniors’ well‑being, independence, and social engagement — work that helps foster a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for aging in Canada. (Photo courtesy of: Pixabay.com).
38 Biz Of The Month: A Taste Of Britain In Chatham Offers A Little Bit Of Home In Every Aisle

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FROM THE PUBLISHER – Fashion Week Windsor-Essex 2026 Brought The Energy . . . And Biz X Was There

Biz X magazine was very proud to be a Sequin Sponsor, along with Mastronardi Estate Winery, of Fashion Week Windsor-Essex (FWWE) which took place from March 22 to March 28, 2026.

I’m pleased to support the fashion industry across southwestern Ontario — from designers and models to photographers, businesses, and the organizations that help them thrive.

Backing this creative community aligns naturally with our magazine’s commitment to showcasing local talent, entrepreneurship, and the people shaping our region’s cultural landscape.

In the photo above you’ll see me with Stephen Drouin, FWWE President at the kickoff luncheon that set the “seams” in motion.

According to Drouin: “Putting together the seven-day FWWE was exhausting, but it really paid off for the local fashion community. In our first year (a three-day event in 2025), 300-plus attended, but this year over 750 turned out to show their support. Next year the community can expect a celebration of local women’s empowerment, pioneers, and trendsetters through the decades.”

The 2025/2026 FWWE Board Members are Drouin; Sam Turner, Digital Design and Social Media Content; and Moya McAlister, Production Manager. Committee members include Justine Thompson-Fisher, Administrative Assistant; Melissa Hicks, Treasurer; Tracey Harding, Advertising Liaison; Irene Moore Davis, Editor; Lori Moore, Volunteer Coordinator, and Mena Biafora-Vincelli, Lead Stylist.

But first — check out a few of my favourite shots from this year’s event. Windsor showed up in style: bold looks, stunning locations, incredible support — and the photos prove it.

Click below to see what the buzz is all about!

PHOTO GALLERY IN THE MAY ISSUE ON PAGES 5 TO 7

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BIZ X MAGAZINE MAY 2026 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 5

ON THE COVER — Gear Up For Safety — Page 18
Preparing yourself or others to work safely, starts with the right equipment, training, and mindset. It’s essentially getting ready before the work begins. And safe, healthy workplaces don’t happen by chance — they are built by employers who invest in training, support, and practical solutions. In recognition of Safety and Health Week (May 4 to 9), we speak with area professionals about common workplace challenges, injury prevention, and how organizations can reduce risk while building stronger safety cultures. It’s the ideal opener to launch our safety and health editorial on solid footing . . . and you’ll find even more coverage in the pages that follow. INDIVIDUALS PICTURED & LOCATION: Lucier Glove & Safety Products Inc. provides a comprehensive line of safety gear to businesses and organizations across the region. They stock everything from gloves, safety boots, and Carhartt workwear to hard hats, safety glasses, first aid kits, traffic signs, and more. The company is supported by a crew who knows what’s on the shelves, from top to bottom, and can assist customers in finding exactly what they need! Photographed inside the 1701 Provincial Road location in Windsor, from left are: Kris Mann, Office Manager; James Lucier, Outside Sales; and Jessica Hill-Broome, Inside Sales Manager. PHOTOGRAPHER: Rod Denis. (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com)

CONTENTS MAY 2026

4 Funny Stuff
5 From The Publisher: A Fashion Week Of Style, Creativity And Community To Remember
8 Front Lines
10 Guest Column: Loyalty Starts Inside, How To Keep Your Team Engaged And Growing
12 Newsflash

14 Belle Vivante: Settle In, Sip & Eat Well, Stay Late At Nico Walkerville your experience begins with the lighting and those incredibly comfortable bar seats. It then carries through to the exceptional cocktails, and friendly, knowledgeable staff who keep the good vibes going. With a bar built for lingering — plus a kitchen turning out dishes that more than hold their own — it’s the kind of place where time slips away, and you won’t mind one bit. (Photo: Tracey Harding).
16 Windsor Food Spotters Feature Food Spots
23 New In Biz: Bloodwork At Your Door
24 XX Files: May Bchouti, A Top Woman In Safety

26 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: The Year That Changed His Health And His Life’s Direction In this May article — perfectly aligned with our Safety and Health edition exploring different facets of well‑being —our own Cup of Joe columnist informs Biz X readers about how he achieved some major health changes over the past 12 months. After outlining his 100-lb weight loss, Joe McParland offers a detailed account of the excellent medical care he received during bilateral inguinal hernia surgery at the world‑renowned Shouldice Hernia Hospital in Thornhill, Ontario. He shares these personal experiences with the hope that his journey might inspire readers facing their own wellness challenges. (Selfie by McParland upon arriving at the Shouldice hospital).

28 The Parenting Biz: Building Healthy Habits Through Sports For A Stronger, More Confident Generation Kids who join community sports clubs gain a blend of physical, mental, and emotional health benefits. Staying active helps them build strength, coordination, and overall health, while the team environment boosts confidence, resilience, cooperation, and the ability to handle both wins and setbacks — skills that support them in school, friendships, and everyday life. (Photo: Andrew Brush, Amherstburg Minor Baseball association U12 Rep Coach, and his son Lennon Brush, courtesy of Sammy Brush).
30 Parenting With Purpose: Mental Health Awareness Month And The Foundations Children Grow Up On
30 Motivational Quotes With Danny
31 Health Matters: Opening The Door To Substance Use Discussions By Talking Early With Youth
32 Ask The Experts: Behind The Wrench With Fowler Plumbing And The Work They Do
34 Awards Spotlight: Women’s Enterprise Skills Training Of Windsor Inc.’s Journey Towards Success Awards
38 Biz Of The Month: Afternoon Tea, The Mrs. Bell’s Way

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St. Clair College Celebrates Five Standout Graduates For 2026 Alumni Of Distinction Awards

You may have watched the big stars collect their trophies on TV this year already in film and music, but the real action here at home is just beginning!

The awards you can take part in — by sending in nominations, supporting and possibly attending in person — are getting underway in the coming months in Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent. Not to mention the 29th annual Biz X Awards with nominations this summer and the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce will reveal their 2026 BEA winners later this year too!

Until then, in our April edition, you will read about a local winner for the 2026 Scot of the Year recognized by the Scottish Studies Society. You’ll learn how to nominate a Registered Practical Nurse, Registered Nurse, and/or Nurse Practitioner in the 19th annual Lois Fairley Nursing Awards, presented by the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario.

In addition, we share the website where you can submit your choices for the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce (CKCC) 138th annual Business Excellence Awards.

However, for now, we roll out the red carpet for the recipients of the 33rd annual Alumni of Distinction Awards! St. Clair College is set to honour five alumni in May who have made outstanding professional and community contributions in their fields and community service.

The 2026 winner of St. Clair College’s Alumni of Distinction Awards are:

• Jeff Denomme, Artist/Author, The Haunted Zoo: A graduate of the Graphic Design program representing the School of Media Arts and Design.
• Jennifer Jovanovski, Chief Executive Officer, John McGivney Children’s Centre: A graduate of the Nursing program representing the School of Nursing.
• Mark McGuire, Executive Director, Give and Go Sports Education: A graduate of the Business Administration program representing the Zekelman School of Business and IT.
• Jennifer Pestrin, Executive Director, Community Living Windsor: A graduate of the Developmental Services Worker program representing the School of Community Studies.
• Nic White, Owner and Chief Operations Officer, Handy Bros. Home Comfort: A graduate of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) program representing the School of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeships.

This year’s cohort brings the total to 149 graduates recognized by the College since 1992.

Whether you’re reading this column in print at your workplace, flipping through it in a waiting room, or seeing our digital edition on your computer or phone — here’s your chance to be in the room for the
celebration itself.

The 33rd annual Alumni of Distinction dinner takes place Friday, May 8, 2026, in the Alumni Skyline Room at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West in Windsor.

Doors open at 6 p.m., and dinner begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person and are available by calling 519-972-2747. For event and reception information, please visit online.

We hope to see you there as the community comes together to celebrate this year’s remarkable alumni who continue to make an impact in our region!

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