The lake, on line, with Eagle
My wife and I and our dog just returned from a nice, relaxing, three day, three night excursion to Birchland Cottages in Iron Bridge, about 65 miles east of the Sault.
Besides the well maintained, clean and cozy cottage that we rented on splendid Clear Lake, there were other factors that contributed to the reclining, unwinding, days and nights.
There were daily barbecues, walks on roads of the wooded property, nights at the fire pit, cold beer and … classic hits music with crystal clear reception via the on line version of Sault radio station Eagle 95.1.
…[read more]Reggie’s is re-opening
An iconic downtown bar is poised to push the re-start button on Sept. 1.
With new operator Randy Lapossie at the helm, Reggie’s Place Tavern — located just past March Street on Queen Street E. in the Sault’s downtown– has a sign on one of its front windows that is signalling the Sept. 1 re-opening.
It will mark a new chapter for the local watering hole which had become a popular gathering place for folks of all ages and many walks of life for well over 25 years under previous operator Reggie Daigle.
…[read more]The best food winners are …
We have the winners from the first-ever, “who has the best food” survey compiled by Sault Business Matters.
We were, simply put, overwhelmed with the response which included more than 750 e-mail responses (we specifically asked for e-mail) and another 17 who opted to post under our original story of August 1.
In fact, we had so many responses that we are recognizing the top four finishers in each category, as opposed to our original thought of top three.
See below for the list of winners … and thank you to all who participated!
…[read more]Feature: NTAAA advertising
Effective and affordable advertising during these challenging times can be very hard to achieve.
Having said that, Northern Transit & Arena Advertising Agency (NTAAA) feels it offers one of the best options to assist area businesses — including Sault Ste. Marie — with branding and increased sales.
One of the company’s key objectives is to match their client’s interests with outdoor and indoor advertising products and services that will offer a direct link to the client’s consumer interests as well as their locations.
…[read more]Feature: Jasmine Ladies Fashions
For thirty-seven years, Jasmine Ladies Fashions has been a fixture in women’s clothing at first from its location for many years in the Cambrian Mall and now in its current location in downtown Sault Ste. Marie.
Owner Linda Caputo tells Sault Business Matters that she began her journey in the retail world as a buyer for the Shoe Corporation of America but always had an interest and love for women’s fashion.
Right from the start, she developed a loyal clientele and she, along with her long-time and friendly staff of Nancy, the store manager, and other long-time staff members Chris, Mary, and Ida, all enjoy helping women find the perfect outfit for occasions of all kinds.
…[read more]Feature: Sault Tree Experts
Working as a writer for Sault Business Matters, you can certainly learn all about the different facets involved in various industries.
And in this case it was some lessons in the art of working with trees!
You see, for over thirty-five years, Glen Chiblow, who is the owner of Sault Tree Experts, has expertly guided his business to become one of the best arborist companies in the region which takes great pride in the service they provide.
…[read more]CKCY: My first media job
It was circa 1975 and between beers at the Purple Lantern, I studied Journalism at Sault College.
Classmates included David Gazer and Joe Petrolo and I mention them because all three of us managed to land part-time jobs at CKCY Radio while still “studying” at Sault College.
Gazer and Petrolo, with their booming, CKLW-Windsor-style voices, worked as late night newscasters at CKCY while I was the weekend sportscaster.
Thus began my media career, which is now at 45 years and counting.
…[read more]Feature: Healthgear Medical
It has been a locally owned and operated business for almost 30 years.
Since September of 1992, Healthgear Medical & Safety Inc. has been proudly serving the Algoma District providing reliable, knowledgeable service in home health care.
From the very beginning, owner Jim (James) Mills has aimed to offer the best prices compared to the competitors in what is arguably a competitive market.
Speaking with Mills recently, I learned that at first because his father was in the restaurant business, having owned five restaurants, he in a way felt he should try and follow in his footsteps.
…[read more]Downtown patio bars aplenty
It is patio bar season.
And as we head towards the end of June and are poised to welcome July, the weather outlook is for plenty of warmth and sunshine.
As for the patio bars, there are many to choose from, particularly in the Sault’s downtown.
Making our rounds on Thursday of this week, Mane St. Cafe was a popular spot at its Queen Street E. location, between East and Brock streets.
A feature of Mane St. Cafe is the roll-up canopy that overhangs the neat and tidy patio bar.
…[read more]Feature: Rivercity Motorsports
It was a recent Saturday that I stopped in to speak with general manager Jason Goodine of Rivercity Motorsports & Trailers about what can only be described as a real playground for the outdoor enthusiast.
While I waited for Jason to open the door at Rivercity Motorsports & Trailers I had a chance to look at some of the “toys” on display outside and wow, what a wide variety of fun looking machines!
Goodine tells Sault Business Matters that he has served as GM for the last three years and absolutely loves being able to make people’s dreams come true in helping them get their dream powersport machine, be it an ATV, UTV, XTV, snowmobile, motorcycle, dirt bike, personal watercraft, pontoon boat, boat, tractor, trailer, and other power equipment.
…[read more]Feature: Vintage Games
I recently met with Mike Turcotte, one half of the dynamic duo, who along with his wife Beth Davison, owns and operates a real treasure in downtown Sault Ste. Marie affectionately titled Vintage Games N Junque.
One of the first things you will notice about Mike is his quick wit and a real gift for friendly conversation which is sure to make your shopping experience a fun one.
The store itself is a virtual treasure trove of interesting finds and collectibles, which lends itself completely to a lengthy visit and you can be sure that you won’t feel pressured to buy something — but in all likelihood you will find something that tickles your fancy.
…[read more]Cheers to local beers
I like beer.
In fact, it has been a preferred liquid refreshment of mine since, um, I was in Grade 12 at venerable Sir James Dunn Collegiate in the Sault.
The brands of beer on my select list are not as numerous as they once were.
And now, as I support local more than ever before, the products of Northern Superior Brewing and OutSpoken Brewing are my top choices, where available.
…[read more]Feature: Bennardo Jewellers
If there is one story that I am proud to write, this one would definitely rank near the top. You see, I have known the Bennardo family pretty much most of my life — for many years they lived across the street from me.
…[read more]Whoa, oh listen to the Eagle
” … what the people need is a way to make them smile … it ain’t so hard to do if you know how … gotta get a message, get it on through … woah, oh listen to the music …” — from the 1970s classic hit ‘Listen to the Music’ by the Doobie Brothers.
…[read more]Feature: Northern Superior
Who doesn’t like an ice cold beer especially as we start to see temperatures start to heat up in Sault Ste. Marie?
(It’s no secret that I have been known to enjoy a cold beer or two, especially in the summer months.)
Well, the Sault is fortunate to have two breweries in operation and without question, Northern Superior Brewing Company as its predecessor Northern Brewery, has a storied history here and has been quenching the thirst of residents for many, many years.
…[read more]Feature: Makwa Wise
Sometimes things happen suddenly and unexpectedly. And the story of how Makwa Wise came to be an advertiser on Sault Business Matters is an example of this.
…[read more]Feature: Willson Greco Law
Situated at 494 Albert Street East in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, you will come across a beautiful, rustic looking building that is home to the law offices of Willson Greco Barristers & Solicitors.
…[read more]May we be okay in May
We seem to be getting past first base. As in flattening the curve from the 100 mile an hour fastball that COVID-19 threw at the world. Doug Ford, the province’s stand-up, no-nonsense premier, has lauded Ontario residents for stepping up to the plate when called upon. And in Sault Ste. Marie, team work has been evident.
…[read more]‘We’re getting close’ — Ford
Premier Doug Ford said today that Ontario is “getting close” to re-opening. Appearing on live television from Queen’s Park in Toronto, Ford noted that the provincial government has a sector-specific list of guidelines to protect workers, consumers and the general public from the spread of COVID-19.
…[read more]Supporting one another
There is irony in the following words. That is, as we maintain separation while practicing social distance, we need to be members of a team by sticking together.
…[read more]Feature: IDA Pharmacy
One of Sault Ste. Marie’s longest serving examples of excellence in customer service can be found in the IDA Pharmacy family of stores. As a long time customer myself, this writer can attest to the “go the extra mile” level of service you can expect at the IDA locations.
…[read more]Radio newscaster flashback
I have worked in the local radio business as a sportscaster, on and off, since 1975. And besides the “good sports” who I have worked alongside, there has also been a memorable cast of news hounds who I shared a microphone with at 920 CKCY, YES-FM et al.
…[read more]Doug Ford shows leadership
It is no longer just a campaign slogan. Flexing strength and the ability to govern and work with others as a true leader, Ontario Premier Doug Ford is showing that he really is “for the people.”
…[read more]Ford commends Trudeau
As we are in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis that is affecting all of us, it is truly inspiring when government leaders from different political parties are publicly supportive of one another.
…[read more]Feature: Homespun Treasures
For all intents and purposes, Homespun Treasures, the rustic, homey, country, quaint store located in the Sault’s downtown, was never really supposed to happen in its current format.
…[read more]Feature: Kendall Barban, lawyer
On the day I met with local lawyer Kendall Barban of O’Neill DeLorenzi Nanne Barristers & Solicitors, I was immediately struck by how personable and friendly she is, much like her law clerk, Sandy Holmberg, who had reached out to me regarding advertising here on Sault Business Matters.
…[read more]Feature: The Croatian Corner
Anyone who follows me on social media knows that this Italian girl loves her food. But I also love to let everyone else know about all of the Sault’s amazing places to eat and shop at.
…[read more]Feature: Amanda’s Reading Corner
It was just the other day that I finally met the founder of Amanda’s Reading Corner, Amanda Holmberg, in person after corresponding with her for the last few months, coincidentally on something completely different, a Facebook page she had created when seeing the need for it, called ‘Things to do in the Soo’.
…[read more]Feature: Stackburger
Here’s a fact you may be surprised to learn about the owner of Stackburger, which is located on Spring St., in the Sault’s downtown.
…[read more]Feature: Yes! It Fits
The other day, I shared a post on my Facebook page regarding new tankini arrivals at Yes! It Fits — and the comments under my post ranged from “excellent products and lovely service” to “superb service and excellent quality.”
…[read more]Feature: Tamar’s Trends
One thing that will immediately strike you about flower shop owner Tamar Ford is just how very easy it is to have a conversation with her. You quickly feel at ease, comfortable, and know that you are in for an easy, uncomplicated, and enjoyable shopping experience.
…[read more]Feature: MVMT Yoga
Tucked away in the basement of the Healing Arts Centre on Bruce St., you will find one of the Sault’s newest yoga studios. But rest assured, this is not your typical run of the mill studio! MVMT Yoga opened in November of 2018 and its name is inspired by owner Cara Russon’s firm belief that movement is medicine — and it truly is.
…[read more]Feature: Creative Nest Studio
It was approximately five years ago that Diana Petainen took a leap of faith and followed her heart to pursue a very different career path.
…[read more]Classic hits, Eagle 95.1
There is no shortage of quality radio stations in the Twin Sault market. And a relatively new kid on the block, broadcasting out of the Michigan Sault, is Eagle 95.1.
…[read more]Huron Broadcasting, 1978
I was recently forwarded a photocopy of an old program from 1978 that featured a number of advertisements promoting Huron Broadcasting, which was in existence as a Sault media powerhouse circa 1976 to 1990.
…[read more]Try a wood-fired calzone or …
Checked out, for the first time, the relatively new Steamfitters Lounge, which is located in the Machine Shop building on Huron St. in the Sault’s west end.
…[read more]Feature: Fit Bodies. Fit Minds
The goal of Fit Bodies. Fit Minds is what appears on the surface to be a simple one — to inspire you to move! However, as we all know, the motivation to get started and commit to movement in any form can be intimidating, nerve wracking, even anxiety producing for some.
…[read more]Short, downtown wish list
I have been writing and speaking the praises of the Sault’s downtown for a few years now. And as more business comes to the downtown — especially in the food and beverage industry — methinks there is room for at least a couple more.
…[read more]Optimism for 2020
As the Sault settles into a new year and a new decade, a certain sense of watchful sureness surrounds this northern Ontario city.
…[read more]Feature: City Meat Market
It is rare to come across a business located in downtown that can boast of being a landmark for over 100 years. But such is the case with one of downtown Sault Ste. Marie’s finest examples of top-notch customer service, City Meat Market.
…[read more]Feature: The Boiler Room
One of the first things you will notice about the Boiler Room is the deliberate effort by the owners to maintain the natural beauty of this historic building while still making it a warm and welcoming, pub-like atmosphere that you want to hang out in with your friends and family.
…[read more]Seen, been on the local scene
Being a writer, my mind often drifts to the past while living in the moment. And often what happens in the present makes me think — and want to write — about the past.
…[read more]Let it snow, let it snow
To be sure, snow is a four letter word. But it doesn’t have to be a swear word if you accept it and deal with it and make what you can of it.
…[read more]Feature: Rasoi Indian Kitchen
Did you know that Rasoi, literally translates to “kitchen” in Hindi? Well, from the moment you walk in to Rasoi, The Indian Kitchen, you are transported to the kitchens of India without having to leave our fair city!
…[read more]Taste of the downtown
Anyone who says there is no place to go in the Sault’s downtown clearly has not been down here for a while. Here’s the scoop on how many places there are to eat and drink.
…[read more]Kingsville beer in the Sault
The number of licensed establishments in Sault Ste. Marie that now carry Kingsville Brewery products is an impressive one.
…[read more]Media, social anxiety, rights
Being that I am an October baby and that October is one of my favourite months, I suppose it is somewhat fitting that my media career began in October.
…[read more]Wine on tap at Broers
Salute! A novel, vogue wine bar in the Sault’s downtown area is now serving its vino via the old country cellar way — on tap.
…[read more]McCleary an “everyday person”
Sara McCleary says she understands Sault Ste. Marie’s issues on a personal level and feels her experience makes her the right person to represent the riding as the New Democratic Party member of parliament in the House of Commons.
…[read more]“… Issues of affordability…”
New Democratic Party candidate Sara McCleary officially launched her federal election bid on Tuesday with the opening of her campaign office on 24 Queen St. E. in the Sault’s downtown.
…[read more]Sara opens up today
New Democratic Party candidate Sara McCleary will open the doors today to her campaign headquarters on Queen St. E. in the Sault’s downtown.
…[read more]Who to vote for locally?
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of the governing Liberals has made the call to commence the campaign ahead of the October 21 federal election.
…[read more]McCleary in good company
She is a champion for social justice and a community activist. And as a young wife and mother, she juggles a number of part-time jobs to help support her family.
…[read more]Downtown Mane Street
It is a hub of various activity within a venerable downtown building. Located at 626 Queen St. E., the locally-owned, family-operated business is home to Mane Street Salon and Spa, Mane Street Cafe and Boutique, and Achieve Fitness and Wellness Center.
…[read more]