The dream

Being new to the role of business columnist, I’m still learning the ins and outs of the business community in Wellington County. 

Last week I made the early morning drive to Centre Wellington’s Annual Mayor’s Breakfast at the Grand River Raceway in Elora. 

For a cold Wednesday morning it was great to see a sold out room with many of the business members and Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce members gathering in one space. 

Having a venue like this is so important for business owners to learn what everyone is doing, reconnect with peers in the community and have a casual atmosphere to address the mayor and council about relevant issues. 

Sure Mayor Kelly Linton made his address on the township’s direction, but I think the most important outcome was the camaraderie I saw amongst the various business leaders in the community. 

And there was a delicious breakfast to boot. 

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Speaking of food, I am personally a huge fan of Mexican cuisine. I spent some time in Nicaragua in my mid-20s and while not Mexico, the food flavours were similar and I find Mexican cuisine to be my closest comparator here in Canada.  

I was deeply saddened when the Mexican restaurant Fiesta Burrito closed in downtown Fergus. Since then I’ve eaten less burritos, save a misguided adventure to a fast food restaurant in Guelph. Needless to say, I’ve been living with disappointment. 

Think about my excitement when I saw the sign for Bar Burrito Fresh Mexican Grill go up in the Starbucks plaza in the south end of Fergus. I planned a day where I wouldn’t bring my lunch to work, I drove to the restaurant, got out of my car, looked at the brown paper in the windows with some confusion and then saw the notice … “opening soon.”

I guess I’ll just have to wait a little longer for my burrito lunch.

In the meantime, if anyone can recommend another county establishment offering Mexican cuisine, I’d love to hear about it.

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The Minto Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The official launch of the chamber’s rebranding was expected to take place at the annual general meeting at Gramma Jo’s on Feb. 4. 

For more information visit mintochamber.on.ca, call 519-510-7400 or visit info@mintochamber.on.ca.

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There have been some recent ownership changes at various businesses across Wellington County.

Snobelen Farms has purchased Bramhill Seeds Ltd. in Palmerston. Snobelen Farms is ready to receive the 2019 IP (identity preserved) soybean crop in Palmerston. For more information call 519-528-2092.

Lori and Wayne Billings have taken over the “adult” store I’m Soooo Bad! in Mount Forest. The business, located at 110 Main St. North, is open Tuesday to Saturday. For more information or questions call  519-323-9969.

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Email questions and/or news tips to businessleader@wellingtonadvertiser.com.

Reporter

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