More downtown patio bars!
There is much anticipation relative to the phased reopening of Ontario’s food and beverage industry that includes outdoor patio bars.
And as many of us in the Sault are looking forward to the planned, long-anticipated opening of outdoor patio bar season beginning the week of June 13, the downtown area along Queen Street and beyond will feature a multitude of open air, licensed dining establishments.
…[read more]This is a good sign
Signs. Signs. Everywhere are signs.
There are good signs ahead. At least we hope so.
Perhaps we just need to believe and trust.
…[read more]Fed funding for our youth
To be sure, Canada’s economic recovery depends in a large part on young people being able to get good, well-paying jobs now and into the future. Which is why the Government of Canada continues to make historic investments in our youth, to try to ensure they have the supports and opportunities they need to build long and successful careers.
…[read more]Feature: Steel City Delivery
For over 20 years, Steel City Delivery has quietly been serving the Sault and area and building a loyal following primarily because of their friendly, efficient and reliable services.
…[read more]N1 Strategy and Dubreuilville
The Corporation of the Township of Dubreuilville has confirmed a new partnership with N1 Strategy, a division of N1 Solutions Inc. The intent is to guide economic development and tourism initiatives in the community of Dubreuilville.
…[read more]Slam hoopsters off to school
A trio of high performance players from the Steel City Slam basketball team of Sault Ste. Marie have committed to post secondary school programs effective the fall semester.
Bishop Whitmell, Logan Whitmell and Elijah Suffel will all be combining school and basketball. The Whitmell brothers are headed to Sault College while Suffel is off to Nipissing University of North Bay.
…[read more]Central United silent auction
Venerable Central United Church of the Sault will hold its annual silent auction online from Friday, May 28 to Friday, June 4, at 3 p.m.
…[read more]Virtual learning strategy
Ontario’s Progressive Conservative government is transforming virtual learning by investing $870,520 in eight innovative projects at Algoma University and Sault College.
The projects are part of the province’s ‘Virtual Learning Strategy’ with the intention of providing students with more flexibility and access to high-quality post secondary education and retraining opportunities.
…[read more]What’s next for Croatians?
When Croatian immigrants first arrived in Sault Ste. Marie at the turn of the last century, their social gatherings were commonplace. Whether in a home, at a picnic grounds or in a building, one could hear Croatian language spoken, celebrate the food, folklore and traditions, and revel in Croatian culture. In the 1970’s the community incorporated the Canadian Croatian Home Association-Sault Ste. Marie (CCHA-SSM) as a non profit culture and heritage organization and moved from Wellington St. West to a newly built home on Second Line East.
…[read more]Lindsay in the air chair
There is another Ellis now spinning the timeless, endless classic hit tunes on local radio station Eagle 95.1.
Lindsay Ellis recently took over the 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. time slot on the Eagle. Her shift follows the 6-10 a.m. ‘Rise and Shine Morning Show’ that is hosted by her husband, long-time local radio personality Tim Ellis, aka Timmy E.
The Ellis’s have been local owners and operators of Eagle 95.1 for just over two and a half years.
…[read more]Lack of action re vaccines
(EDITOR’S NOTE: Following is an open letter to Sault Ste. Marie member of parliament Terry Sheehan.)
Hello Mr. Sheehan:
I want from you to give a reasonable explanation on why with blessings of the War Memorial Hospital (President David Jahn) with volunteer R.N’s and also the agreement with Canada Customs and American Customs why Health Canada does not back this opportunity for Canadian Sault residents to get their second or even first shots from the excess in Sault, Michigan?
…[read more]Leaf, yard waste pick-up
The City of Sault Ste. Marie has started its annual leaf and yard waste collection. The city is divided in two sections for the purpose of collection every two weeks. A map describing the sections is available on the city’s website.
…[read more]Sleep Inn: Home away from home
It was a recent Saturday evening that I was invited to experience the stellar hospitality of the well appointed Sleep Inn for myself as a way of research for this story, a little ‘staycation’ if you will!
It soon became apparent why they are recent winners of the prestigious Gold Award for Choice Hotels!
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted warmly by staff and immediately felt like a member of the Sleep Inn family, which explains why they have so many repeat guests.
…[read more]Mouth watering burgers
Many are of the notion that Stackburger serves some of the best burgers in the Sault.
And there is no argument from us that Stackburger is without peer.
…[read more]Spring has sprung winners
The City of Sault Ste. Marie has confirmed the winners of its ‘Spring has Sprung’ contest. See below for the list of winners.
…[read more]Battle of Atlantic ceremony
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25 was the site for a gathering of local officials who recognized those who served our country in what was a victorious Battle of the Atlantic during World War 2.
…[read more]Sault smiles … with Kelly
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]Rory, Rocco and paid sick days
Rory Ring, who is the chief executive officer of the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce, has teamed up with Ontario Chamber of Commerce boss Rocco Rossi to released a joint statement relative to the Ontario government’s paid sick day program proposal.
…[read more]Fringe North embraces change
Onward and upward.
As was the case with a number of events within the arts and culture sector, 2020 saw the cancellation of what would have been the fourth annual Fringe North Theatre Festival in the Sault.
Now, as the ups and downs of COVID-19 continue to be a challenge, Fringe North is working to try to figure out what can happen relative to the 2021 festival season.
…[read more]‘Your comfort, our promise’
Sault Business Matters had a chance to recently connect with the personable Derek Jackson, who is the chief information and marketing officer for Wardlaw Heating & Cooling.
And when asked the secret to the company being in business for 40 years, Derek responded with the fact that Wardlaw Heating & Cooling has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve and has always adapted with the changing industry.
…[read more]NDP ahead of the game
There has been no word from the federal government when the next election might be held.
But in Sault Ste. Marie, the New Democratic Party has confirmed its candidate for the next federal election by tapping local high school teacher Marie Morin-Strom .
…[read more]Three partners align
Missanabie Cree First Nation, N1 Strategy Inc., a division of N1 Solutions Inc., and The Machine Shop have confirmed the signing of a partnership between the three allies.
The affirmation of the partnership comes with multiple opportunities and a proposed plan to incorporate education, tourism, and the Indigenous experience in northern Ontario, according to a press release that was sent to Sault Business Matters.
…[read more]Sault smiles … at Lucy Ro
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]Environmental town hall
(EDITOR’S NOTE: Following is an excerpt from a release sent to Sault Business Matters relative to the Ontario New Democratic Riding Association and an upcoming environmental town hall event.)
…[read more]Friday features at Gliss
The personable, husband and wife tandem of chef Derek Turner and manager Kristi Turner at Gliss Restaurant on Spring Street in the Sault’s downtown have finalized their Friday feature takeout menu.
Gliss is one of the more popular locally owned and operated restaurants in the Sault and like all small business, can use the support of locals, especially during this latest Ontario emergency shutdown order.
…[read more]City Meat Market supports local
Speaking to Lori Nowitski, daughter of John and Rosina Bruni, owners of City Meat Market, it doesn’t take long to see how passionate she is about a few things — supporting local business, excellence in customer service, and a genuine desire to see the downtown thrive.
…[read more]Catching up with Pina and Tony
To say that COVID-19 has proved a challenge to a small local business like Bennardo Jewellers would be an understatement.
But in speaking to Pina Bennardo, it is truly heartwarming to appreciate their resilience.
…[read more]Wellness workshops at FBFM
During these challenging times, Fit Bodies. Fit Minds would like to remind local businesses/workplaces that employee well-being is more important than ever.
And FBFM is offering a variety of workshops that can benefit all employees in the connection of mind and body wellness.
…[read more]We have the bear facts
Bear with us, so to speak.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Ontario Provincial Police would like to remind all of us to exercise caution as black bears begin to come out of hibernation this spring.
Bears waking up from hibernation are faced with a scarcity of natural food sources, leading them to look for food in garbage cans and bird feeders.
…[read more]Sault smiles … at Stackburger
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]Why is the Sault in a shutdown?
The number of COVID-19 cases here in the Sault are quite low in comparison to the rest of the Province of Ontario … but here we are in another “shutdown” and I know that I am not alone when I ask “why us”? Why are we in the same category as the “hot spots” when we are not a “hot spot” is another question to ask.
…[read more]Blueberry honey … at Makwa
We have a honey of a story to report. Sault Business Matters has received this update from Makwa Makers … blueberry honey is now available!
…[read more]Phases and faces of radio
To declare or observe that radio has undergone consequential compression since I started in the business in 1975 would rank as an overplayed understatement.
From being live 24 hours a day, seven days a week in what was the golden age of radio for stations that were locally owned and operated, the industry has now subjected many who work in it do so in an almost robotic fashion while under the thumb of corporate control.
…[read more]Soon to be patio season
Patio bars were popular in the Sault’s downtown in 2020.
And with the Ontario government and public health officials encouraging more outdoor dining as per COVID-19, look for patio bars to soon spring up in the Sault’s downtown.
…[read more]Camera Craft stands test of time
Camera Craft has been a fixture in downtown Sault Ste. Marie for over six decades, which is an incredible achievement in the small business world. Longevity in operating a highly specialized service is certainly something to be proud of and a testament to the stellar customer service experience one can expect from the team at Camera Craft. Camera Craft has always been a family operated business from its previous owners and to the current ownership.
…[read more]Sault smiles … at Dragonfly
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]PM shows faith in Sault MP
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced changes to his team of parliamentary secretaries.
Some of the parliamentary secretaries are newly appointed, taking on new responsibilities, others are staying in their current portfolio.
…[read more]High school will never be Dunn
The walls at the venerable high school on Wellington Street in the Sault’s east end came tumbling down several years ago.
But the long gone walls and hallowed halls still speak their own language and Sir James Dunn Collegiate remains alive in the memory bank for many who attended the school at any point from its opening in 1957 to its close in 2010.
If you went to SJD and enjoyed any part of your experience there for any length of time, chances are good that high school will never be Dunn in your mind, memory or heart.
…[read more]New at Fit Bodies, Fit Minds
Sault Business Matters recently caught up with the newly hired director of athletics for Fit Bodies. Fit Minds, Daniel Roy to go over some of its new and revised programming.
Daniel and the rest of the team couldn’t be happier to be able to offer more in person programming but also continue with virtual options for those that prefer that option given these times.
…[read more]St. Pat’s at Reggie’s downtown
Reggie’s Place Tavern in the Sault’s downtown has a St. Patrick’s Day event planned that includes live music with popular local band Boneyard.
See below for details.
…[read more]What’s new at Yes! It Fits
It is no secret that 2020 was a challenging year for small businesses and that 2021 has also been off to a rocky start.
But the resiliency of a small business owner such as Jodie McNabb of Yes! It Fits is nothing short of inspiring.
Being able to adapt and make the best of situations has been a big part of why Jodie continues to be successful in a business category that by all intents and purposes would not be expected to do so well in this COVID-19 environment — but succeed she has!
…[read more]Downtown church thrift shops
There are two churches in the downtown area of the Sault that feature thrift shops that are open to the public every Wednesday.
…[read more]A first for the Sault Museum
Francophone visual artist Isabelle Michaud is being featured at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum as its first artist in residence.
An exhibition will display pieces exploring the history of the Dionne Quints, the French community of Sault Ste. Marie, and French Town.
…[read more]Happening at the Legion
Branch 25 Legion, which is located on Great Northern Road in the Sault, has much to offer the public and its members. See below for several examples.
…[read more]Sault smiles … with Lindsay
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]Spring at Big Lake Cabin
The food crew at Big Lake Cabin has cooked up its new spring menu.
And not only does Sault Business Matters have the new spring menu at Big Lake Cabin to share but we can tell you that BLC is now open Monday through Saturday starting at 10:30 a.m.
…[read more]Inside or takeout at Gliss
Gliss Restaurant, located at 133 Spring Street in the Sault’s downtown, recently re-opened inside.
And Gliss manager Kristi Turner tells Sault Business Matters “that we have been fairly busy … we are open inside and for takeout Wednesday through Saturday at 5 o’clock.”
To make a reservation or to call for takeout, phone 705-759-0000. A copy of the entrees menu is listed below.
…[read more]Albert, Gore stop sign
Sault Business Matters issues this reminder of the new stop sign at Albert and Gore streets in that area of the downtown.
…[read more]Eagle assists Soo Theatre
Sault Ste. Marie radio station Eagle 95.1 is showing its passion for the historic Soo Theatre, which is located in the Michigan Soo’s downtown.
…[read more]Creation of N1 Solutions
President Brad Gregorini and his management team have created N1 Solutions Inc. to further reflect the growth and diversification of the NORPRO brand.
…[read more]Sault smiles … with Dunbar
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]Extra critical care bed
Sault Ste. Marie member of provincial parliament Ross Romano has confirmed that the Ontario government is providing Sault Area Hospital with $249,400 to build a new critical care bed to help alleviate pressures and add support in the intensive care unit.
The funding will improve access to critical care amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Romano noted.
…[read more]City facilities re-opening
The City of Sault Ste. Marie, as per Algoma Public Health and the Ontario Government, will return to ‘yellow protect’ on Tuesday. This designation will allow various facilities to re-open with public health and work place safety measures in place.
…[read more]Sault smiles … with Liz
(EDITOR’S NOTE: A regular feature in which we share many of the smiles that help make the Sault a friendly place to do business.)
…[read more]