by Sylene Argent
Essex Centre continues to change as a few area businesses have closed and others have moved into the downtown core. Some businesses are taking advantage of the Town’s Community Improvement Plan, and others have also shown their generosity through making donations towards charitable causes.
• Earlier this summer, Bei Cappeli (which means beautiful hair in Italian) opened at the 70 Talbot Street North location. A new outdoor sign was recently installed.
• Decoy Haven and On the Docks have closed, and the Sewing Shoppe moved into Oldcastle.
• Recently, Essex CIBC’s Branch Manager, Leasa Lapico, and Manager of Client Advice, Stephan Keletgian, received pies in the face as part of a Run for the Cure fundraiser, which raised $1500 for the cause. The local bank was part of a CIBC district team that took part in the recent Run for the Cure event in Windsor.
• Direct Electric Service owner, Chris Burnand, presented a $1000 donation to Family Respite Services at the new Townsview Park. Burnand said knowing his business is helping others is hugely empowering. He and his wife, Stefanie, have been making similar donations for the past four-years. He has been in business for the past 11-years.
• Brennan Jones of Essex utilizes Family Respite Services for his daughter, Hayden, twice a week. During these times, a direct support worker brings Hayden on outings, which gives her an opportunity to socialize with others and have fun.
• Last Thursday, the Town of Essex hosted a ribbon cutting to welcome Fitness Fury, located at 26 Fairview Avenue West. This 4,000 square foot establishment was built to offer group classes, personal training, and open gym times.
• Recently, the Town of Essex hosted a ribbon cutting with Rec Health & Fitness. This new establishment is located in the former Crafty Candles unit inside the No Frills plaza, 31 Arthur Avenue, and offers indoor cycling, boot camps, group and personal training, Yoga, and Pilates.
• Through utilizing the Town’s CIP program, Stephanie Winger, Out of the Klozet, and Crafty Candles have new facades and signage. The facility in whiching lot.
• Essex Auto Wreckers LTD, 65 Gordon Avenue, is again up and running and operating under new management. This business offers auto recycling and buys scrap cars.
• Jeff’s No Frills recently finished an interior refresh that included a fresh coat of paint and a new digital pricing system.
• Just Plus recently completed a mini refresh that included installing a new slat wall and adding a new coat of paint. The refresh was completed in celebration of it being under new ownership.