NEWSFLASH MAY 2017

THE RUNDOWN

The United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County and the Small Business Centre (SBC) a department of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation, announced a new regional grant program in April 2017 — the Neighbourhood Small Business Grant.The purpose of these grants is to encourage new and existing businesses to locate in Priority Neighbourhoods across Windsor and Essex County. It is a part of a broad-based community and economic revitalization and provides training opportunities to applicants by the SBC. Through this partnership, four grants of $5,000 will be awarded throughout 2017 with applications now open up to July 1, 2017. The Neighbourhood Small Business Grant will support businesses looking to open in West Windsor, Downtown Windsor, the Glengarry-Marentette area, the Ford City neighbourhood and targeted areas in the County — Uptown Leamington, Essex Centre, and Harrow. To access the eligibility criteria, link to the application and to see more detailed information visit: WindsorEssexSmallBusiness.com/neighbourhoodgrant.

In April the Motor City Community Credit Union announced the introduction of FLEX chequing accounts, which offers added benefits for all current members and anyone looking for better banking solutions. FreeFlex, their new no fee account, requires no minimum balance to enjoy the benefits of FREE chequing, whether online or in-branch. Flex+offers premium features you need that won’t break the bank. Flex62+ is exclusive to members who are 62 years of age or older and offers premium features, for FREE. Additionally, their new YouthSave account offers an unheard of 2% interest rate on the first $10,000 for anyone younger than 18. This account encourages youth to save for their future. Motor City Community Credit Union is also launching two new exciting features to complement the new accounts. Open Anywhere allows anyone to open an account and become a member from anywhere. ClickSWITCH enables new and existing members to leave the big bank behind by switching automatic payments and direct deposits with the click of a mouse. To find a branch near you check out: MCCCU.com.

NEW IN BIZ

The doors to Milestone Photography Studio, officially open mid-May. The brand new 5,000 square foot facility, located at 3449 Walker Road in Windsor, is a presentation platform and gallery for both fashion, photography, and art. Featuring multiple areas for rehearsal, meeting, and expression, Milestone was built to be a home for our community as a whole, to learn, grow, and develop a lifelong appreciation and love for the visual arts. The centre offers quality programming for everything from photography to painting to yoga for all ages and skill levels. “We even have interest from a local CPR expert to teach here,” says Co-owner and Creator Brent Groh. Supporting the programming will be open studio time, as well as workshops in a variety of media and specialties. Photographer and Co-Owner Terri McPherson adds, “Our mission is to provide instruction and encourage artistic expression in a variety of media through classes, open studios, and workshops in a supportive and collaborative environment.” Throughout the year, Milestone will organize numerous free community exhibits and a fine art gallery for local artisans to sell their work. Jason Telasco is a framing expert who has set-up an exclusive area within the studio to teach framing and matting. “We are offering a space where members of the community can explore their creativity in an inclusive environment,” Telasco explains. The owners invite local photographers and artists to drop by and see the new studio soon.

It’s official! Windsor’s first circus school opened its doors on May 1, 2017, downtown at 511 Pelissier Street. This independently operated aerial arts, acrobatics and circus program offers students of all ages the opportunity to experience the thrill of circus through professional, instructor-directed classes. The Windsor Circus School features an array of classes, private parties, workshops, open gyms, and seminars. It is their mission to create a safe, welcoming, and fun environment for all who pass through their doors. The staff and instructors strive to promote physical literacy and healthy habits in every activity. Weekly adult and youth classes are held over an eight week period in a myriad of circus arts including: Aerial Silks, Aerial Hoop (Lyra), Inversions, Juggling, and more. In addition to its regular classes, Windsor Circus School will engage, inspire and empower area youth and adults by offering open gyms, morning preschool playtime, and youth centred courses. Further information and class registration is available at: WindsorCircusSchool.com.

NEWSFLASH MAY 2017 CONTINUES HERE