ELGIN – When a cracked windshield disrupts the day, Joe and Victoria Chase of Clearly Auto Glass bring the solution directly to customers. There's no need to leave home, farm, or workplace.

Specializing in mobile auto glass repair and replacement, Clearly Auto Glass provides full windshield replacements, stone chip repairs, side and rear glass replacement, and glass service for heavy equipment and farm machinery. “We do a lot of windshield replacement and stone chip repair,” said Joe. “Repairing damage can prevent the need for a full replacement, saving both time and money.”

The business began from a career shift and a desire to fill a need. Joe, a licensed diesel mechanic, discovered a passion for auto glass while working in Kingston, enjoying the hands-on precision and customer relationships the trade offered. Victoria, meanwhile, brought vision and organization, developing the branding, scheduling systems, and structure that turned the idea into a business. “We balance each other’s strengths,” said Victoria. “That partnership is at the heart of Clearly Auto Glass.”

From their Jones Falls location, Joe travels up to 300 km, completing about five jobs daily. “The price of gas is not a concern, "I’m used to having this as an expense, regardless of where the client is,” he said. The onsite garage, once outfitted for mechanical work, has been fully upgraded with heating and all the tools needed to complete jobs efficiently. Ordered parts delivered from Toronto are picked up in Gananoque and Kingston.

The Chases have continued to refine operations over time to make the process as convenient and stress-free as possible. “Our goal is simple: make it easy, make it reliable, and do it right,” said Joe. Mobile service ensures customers don’t have to disrupt their day, while competitive pricing and professional workmanship build trust and reliability. “People, especially customers, tell me they’ve noticed my signs,” Joe added, stating, "Our marketing strategy is second only to referrals."

Community connection is central to their business. Over the holidays, the couple prepared and delivered 40 meals on Christmas Eve, hosted a snowmobile show and shine with proceeds going to Diabetes Canada, and recently donated $10 from every windshield replacement in March to St. Luke’s Community Meals. They also sponsor local sports teams and young race car drivers. “Being part of this community means a lot to us,” said Joe.

As Clearly Auto Glass grows, Joe and Victoria are excited for the arrival of a new service van, which will boost visibility. Through mobility, expertise, and a focus on fostering good relationships, Clearly Auto Glass continues to make a mark across Leeds Grenville and beyond, keeping drivers safe, satisfied, and connected.

New sales and connections were achieved for producers from across Leeds Grenville at the B2B Wholesale Food & Beverage Tradeshow, held Monday, March 23, in Merrickville.

The tradeshow brought together farms, artisan food makers, beverage companies, and specialty food brands with retailers, independent restaurants, cafés, hospitality operators, and institutional buyers. Attendees explored a wide range of locally sourced, sustainable products, discovered new suppliers, and strengthened business connections within the region.

Janet Campbell of Mrs. McGarrigle’s Fine Food Shop, who attended the tradeshow shared that, “As both buyers and producers, we understand how critical it is to connect directly with others in the local food chain. This tradeshow makes it easy to discover new products, strengthen partnerships, and support one another’s growth. It’s a great example of how collaboration within Leeds Grenville can benefit everyone involved, from producer to retailer to customer.”

The format was simple and effective: producers displayed their products at individual tables, while buyers moved through the space to sample items, ask questions, and connect directly with each producer. “The tradeshow created a focused, cost-free environment for businesses to explore partnership opportunities and support the growing local food sector,” said Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

“Now in our second year we have increased the number of producers and buyers in attendance, as we continue to build growth opportunities for area producers,” said Ann Weir, Manager of Economic Development.



For more information about local food initiatives, upcoming events, or to register for future B2B opportunities, contact Shelbi McFarlane at 613-342-3840 or email Shelbi.mcfarlane@uclg.on.ca.

The position provides day-to-day administrative support for the Counties’ Small Business programs. This includes coordinating events and workshops, managing website content and social media, supporting program reporting, and assisting with client communications. The role also involves helping deliver Ministry-funded initiatives such as Starter Company Plus and Summer Company, providing training, mentorship, and micro-grants.

The ideal candidate is organized, self-motivated, and knowledgeable about small business operations, with strong skills in Microsoft Office, website management, social media, and CRM systems. Experience in project coordination, bookkeeping, and general office administration is essential. Occasional evening meeting availability, a valid driver’s license, and access to a vehicle are required.

This permanent full-time position is an exciting opportunity to join the Counties’ dynamic Economic Development team, gain valuable experience supporting entrepreneurs, and contribute to the region’s economic growth. For full details on qualifications and position responsibilities, review the Small Business Assistant job description.

Application deadline is April 2, 2026 at 4 p.m. EST.

Prescott Spring Home & Trade Show

Seeking vendors for the 2026 Prescott Spring Home & Trade Show, hosted by Ontario Approved Professionals this event features more than 80 vendors over three days. Thursday offers a “Let’s Network” evening from 4-8:00 p.m. The show runs Friday from 4-8 p.m., and Saturday from 9-2 p.m. Admission is by donation in support of the South Grenville Food Bank, April 23 to 25 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre at 444 Prince St.,Prescott.

Local Wines Available to Restaurants

Local artisan wineries across Ontario, including those in Leeds Grenville, can now sell their Non-VQA products directly to licensed establishments such as restaurants without previous LCBO markup barriers. The change follows several years of advocacy by industry partners and municipalities, improving market access for small, independent wineries and supporting local agri-tourism growth. While this marks important progress, industry representatives note that some differences in rebate programs between wine categories remain.

With the goal of expanding music education in the Merrickville community, Anya Perry of Maple Music Studios has graduated from the Starter Company Plus program. Backed by the Government of Ontario, the program provides business owners with training, mentorship, and microgrants of up to $5,000 to help them start, expand, and strengthen their businesses.

“It’s inspiring to support such passionate and driven entrepreneurs throughout our region,” said Cindy James, Manager of the Small Business Advisory Centre serving North Leeds Grenville clients. The Small Business Advisory Centre next call for application is Summer-Fall 2026. Learn more about programs by email or call 613-283-0062 to book an appointment.

Call Carol Hardy at 613-342-3840 ext. 5367 or email carol.hardy@uclg.on.ca.

Email Cindy James at cjames@smallbizcentre.ca

The next cohort of Starter Company Plus starts in April. This highly sought-after and exclusive program is designed to address critical business areas and empower small business owners for long-term success. Best of all, it’s completely free for participants.

You’ll receive step-by-step guidance in financial management, strategic planning, market research, and more. Through interactive workshops, one-on-one coaching, and access to a supportive network of like-minded entrepreneurs, you'll gain invaluable insights and build the skills needed to propel your business forward.

For more information, email Small Business or call

613-342-3840 x 5367.

RTO 9 Call for Board of Director Applications

The RTO 9 Board of Directors strives to maintain strong geographic representation across South Eastern Ontario. These are the people who bring a complementary balance of experience and skill sets to the table. This strategy brings a diversity of perspectives and experiences that provide the organization with a much fuller picture of the future and a more representative Board of Directors that reflects who residents are and who our visitors will be.

RTO 9 is seeking one (1) Director for the East region. There are also two (2) At Large Director seats open. Candidates interested in one of these positions will be asked to fill out the RTO 9 Board application form and submit a resume for consideration. Successful applicants will be announced at RTO 9’s AGM on June 12 and must be able to attend the mandatory board orientation/training and retreat day on June 19. Contact Bonnie Ruddock for further information at bruddock@region9tourism.ca.

Deadline Friday, April 10 at 4 p.m.

Do you have a capital project that will enrich lives in your rural community? The FCC AgriSpirit Fund supports projects in communities of less than 50,000 people. Eligible applicants can apply for $10,000 to $25,000.



Examples of what can be considered

• Construction of or upgrades to community buildings
• Initiatives that support agriculture and food
• Projects that reduce your environmental footprint
• Projects that improve accessibility and inclusion
• Projects to support food recovery or reduction of food waste

Who can apply?

• Charities registered with the Canada Revenue Agency
• Non-profit organizations who partner with a municipal body, territorial or provincial government
• Non-profit organizations who partner with First Nations, Inuit or Métis governments/communities; the municipal body or government/community must agree to receive contributed money.
• Town, city, rural municipality, or First Nations, Inuit or Métis government/community < 50,000 people
• Applicants that have not received support through the FCC AgriSpirit Fund in the past five years

Eligible projects

• Recognize FCC’s contribution
• Must be completed within two years of receiving funding with documented proof
• Are capital projects that enrich the lives of community residents in communities of < 50,000 people
• Successfully pass FCC’s background check. View past projects.

Accepting applications from April 15 - May 15

Premier self storage facility for sale with 54 units and room to build another 40 units on Lyndhurst Road near Sweet Corners Road. Property also includes a vacant industrial building which can either be leased separately or converted into additional storage units. Property is zoned industrial and is 1.34 x 1/2 - 1.99 acres. Part of a 5 property self storage portfolio, the facilities are for sale individually or together. The portfolio has significant upside potential and expansion opportunities. Additional portfolio and financial information available.



View map for 281 Lyndhurst Road, Lyndhurst.