Biz X magazine April 2023

Since Music Makes The World Go Round, This Issue Is Dedicated To All Those In The Music And Entertainment Biz With Articles On . . .

Audio Two, Windsor Vintage & Vinyl, LaSalle

T2B’s Adult Music And Medicine Program

Meet The Music YourTV Host, Greg Gnyp

Candice Twees, Inspired Sounds Music Therapy

Upcoming Conce rts From Hugh Leal ’s Jazz Series, 4th Wall Music, And The Windsor Classic Chorale

THE PARENTING BIZ Music Lessons For Kids (And Adults Too) PLUS Plenty more local business coverage!

TAKE CENTRE STAGE

Area musician Christian Vegh is set to release his fourth album at an upcoming Record Launch Event. Vegh is also part of the Detroit band, Slight Return USA (represented by Mark Kassa, right) which is the opening act. We get up close and personal with this “guitar prodigy” and learn about how the local community supports him every step of the way on his path to stardom. PAGE 18

IN WINDSOR, ESSEX COUNTY & METRO DETROIT SINCE 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 Funny Stuff

5 From The Publisher: St. Clair College’s Alumni Of Distinction

Award Recipients

6 Event Profile: Three Concerts You Won’t Want To Miss

8 Front Lines

9 Motivational Quotes With Danny

11 From The Bookshelf: King Of Hope By Kim Conklin

12 Just Sayin’: Palm Tree Justice

Have you ever wondered how and why the police department releases the identities of some people charged with crimes and not others?

14 Newsflash

16 Food For Thought: A Taste For Life Fundraiser

Here’s a recipe for tasty success — participating restaurants are donating 25% of sales, combined with caring people who dine out, to Pozitive Pathways Community Services, with sponsors supporting every aspect of the event. This accurately describes A Taste For Life, taking place Wednesday, April 19, 2023 in the region. One participating restaurant is Piccolo’s Pizza & Pasta House, 2135 Tecumseh Road West that will serve, on this day, a Taste Of Italy entrée to help raise money for the cause. Piccolo’s is well known for its huge portions and delicious, creative dishes, such as the Cheesy Cheddar Chicken shown. This is thin-fried, dough strip wrapped around a mound of capellini pasta, covered in their traditional cheddar Alfredo sauce with strips of chicken breast baked with a four cheese blend to perfection. Is your mouth watering yet?

(Photo courtesy of Piccolo’s staff)

25 XX Files: Candice Twees, Inspired Sounds Music Therapy

26 Have A Cup Of Joe With Joe: Greg Gnyp, YourTV Host

28 Ask The Experts: Movin’ In Stereo With Audio Two

30 The Parenting Biz: The Importance Of A Musical Education

Learning to play an instrument is not only fun, it can also build discipline and increase self-esteem in your little ones. In this issue, we interview several music schools in the Windsor Essex area that specialize in offering music lessons, such as B Natural Music School. Pictured above is Sydney (last name withheld), a student of the Belle River school with owner Kelly McBride working on pieces to prepare for an upcoming audition. And if your child(ren) love to sing, we introduce you to a youth choir looking for new members!

(Photo courtesy of Blush Photography)

35 Kids In The Community: The T2B Sand Slam Committee’s Connection To The Adult Music & Medicine Program

36 Hot Shots: W.E. Care For Kids Under The Big Top Kids Gala Stilt walkers Jake Rice (left) and Kyle Sipkens, from INCIRQUE, welcomed guests to the circus-themed gala held at the Giovanni Caboto Club in February. The event was filled with plenty of high flying action, with animals, entertainers and sponsors in attendance. Find out who in our photo pages!

(Photo by Rod Denis)

38 Hot Shots: The St. Nicholas Macedonian Banquet Centre International Women’s Day Fashion Show

41 The Way It Was: The Heritage Of Sandwich First Baptist Church

42 Biz Of The Month: Let Vintage & Vinyl Spin You Right ’Round (Like A Record, Baby)!

It takes a city to “raise up” a musician. Share in Christian Vegh’s unwavering journey to impact our quality of life through his gift of music. Vegh (Singer, Songwriter, Producer and Guitarist) has been referred to as a “Young guitar prodigy with an old soul” ; “The type of young artist that will shape Canadian music for the next 50 years” and the “Hottest young guitar player in the nation.” Learn how this Windsor musician got his start, survived the pandemic and get the details on the April 15 Record Launch Event for his fourth album, entitled AAA. And you’ll also read some interesting stories about his meetings with some very big names in the music biz!

COVER LOCATION AND ARTISTS PICTURED: Guitarist/Vocalist Christian Vegh and Mark Kassa (right) founding member of Slight Return USA, are photographed during a jam session at Lakeshore St. Andrew’s Church, 235 Amy Croft Drive. The church is the site for the Record Launch Event of Vegh’s fourth album, where he will hit the stage to perform songs from all of his albums for his fans and supporters. Cover art for the new album (AAA) is on the left screen as created by Windsor artist Asaph Maurer.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Rod Denis (RodneyLDenisPhotographer.com).

No Bunny Loves You Like Your Dog Loves You

Send your funny animal photo with your pet’s name to: deborah@bizxmagazine.com and it may be included here in an upcoming issue. Make sure it gives our readers a laugh!

Play dead? No, Dahlia wants you to play Led Zeppelin IV at full blast!

Rub-a-dub-dub come jump in the tub with Joey! Photo courtesy of The Tub Doctor.

“Striving to provide our readers with a quality magazine that contains accurate information about the businesses and people that shape our border cities; and that challenges us to appreciate, explore and contribute to our communities.”

Gone fishing! Sparky will catch ya later, alligator.

Lily is simply ear-resistible. Happy Easter everyone.

PRESIDENT Deborah Jones

VICE-PRESIDENT

Colin Jones

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SALES

Della Jones-Goulet, Assistant to the Publisher

Kathleen Jones, Office Administrator

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Jack Rosenberg

WRITERS / PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Steven Bezaire

Julianna Bonnett

David Clark

Andrea Grimes

Danny Gautama

Dave Halliday

Joe McParland

Jim Murphy

Victoria Rose

Rose City Politics Panelists

Rebecca Wright

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodney L. Denis Photography

Sanja Tabor

PRODUCTION DESIGN

Rae Marie

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Biz X MAGAZINE, OWNED BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. IS PUBLISHED EACH MONTH WITH THE EXCEPTION OF DOUBLE ISSUES IN THE SUMMER AND NOV/DEC. THE MAGAZINE IS ONLY SOLD ON NEWSSTANDS IN ONTARIO FOR $3.50 PER COPY PLUS HST AND PERSONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS MAY BE ORDERED FOR $45 PLUS HST FOR 10 ISSUES IN CANADA. THE ACCEPTANCE OF ADVERTISEMENTS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF THE PRODUCTS OR SERVICES ADVERTISED. THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED IN EDITORIALS AND CONTRIBUTIONS BY COLUMNISTS AND ADVERTISERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN ANY EDITORIAL COLUMNS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE PUBLISHER. INFORMATION IS TIMELY AS OF OUR PRINT DEADLINE. Biz X MAGAZINE IS A REGISTERED NAME OF 1277025 ONTARIO LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION. CONTENTS COPYRIGHT ©2023 BY 1277025 ONTARIO LTD.

Six St. Clair Graduates Honoured At 30th Alumni Of Distinction Awards

By Deborah Jones

Spring is here and for the most part everyone is in a good mood after the ups and downs of some unpredictable winter weather.

Here we are now with our fourth issue of 2023 and as usual, time is just flying by.

Our April edition is filled with stories supporting the local music industry and also a heck of a lot of good news, including my column here about six local award winning individuals.

The 2023 recipients (for photos see the back cover) of St. Clair College’s Alumni of Distinction come from diverse backgrounds, but they have all reached great success in their chosen fields.

The honourees for St. Clair College’s 30th Alumni of Distinction Awards and their respective category, listed first, are as follows . . .

(Business & I.T.) Bob Bellacicco, Reporter, Bell Media/CTV News Windsor, graduated in 1994 from the Business Advertising program.

(Creative Arts: Media, Art & Design)

Dan Janisse, Photojournalist, Windsor Star, graduated in 1989 from the Journalism program.

(Nursing/Health Sciences) Christine Knights, Owner/Registered Dental Hygienist, Bright Smiles Community Dental Hygiene, graduated in 2006 from the Dental Hygiene program.

(Technology/Engineering) Fil Grado, Advance Projects Technical Lead, Stellantis, graduated in 1997 from the Mechanical Engineering Technology program.

(Recent Grad) Julia Lane, Canadian AwardWinning, Multi-Sport Athlete, graduated in 2022 from the Community Integration Through Cooperative Education program.

(Community Studies) Cheryl Sprague, Executive Director/Founder, Delta Chi Early Childhood Centres, graduated in 1978 from the Early Childhood Education program.

This year’s list of honourees makes a total of 131 graduates recognized since 1992.

St. Clair College President, Dr. Patti France, points out that the award recipients will be asked to be guest speakers at convocation ceremonies in 2023-2024.

“Nothing epitomizes the importance of St. Clair’s role in the community quite as clearly as the Alumni of Distinction program,” France states. “Over the years, it has honoured graduates who have used their St. Clair educations to make truly exceptional contributions to the technological, economic, social and medical well-being of southwestern Ontario. The fact that many of our local honourees have subsequently gone on to be recognized with Premier’s Awards attests to the impact of a St. Clair education at the provincial, national and international levels. We’ll be celebrating all of that as we gather for the 30th annual banquet on April 15, 2023.”

John Feldman, President St. Clair College Alumni Board of Directors adds: “For 30 years, St. Clair has celebrated exemplary graduates who have been recognized for their groundbreaking achievements in a variety of industries. Entrepreneurship, research or public service: no matter where they land on that spectrum, these Alumni of Distinction are trailblazers who effect positive change across our community!”

This year’s Alumni of Distinction ceremony takes place on Saturday, April 15, 2023 in the Alumni Skyline room at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts in downtown Windsor. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased until April 11 by calling 519-972-2747. For further details go to: StClairAlumni.com.

Congrats to all!

EVENT PROFILE Upcoming Concerts In Windsor Essex

Since the April issue of our magazine highlights the local music industry, we wanted to fill you in on a few upcoming concerts Biz X is supporting.

Here we feature three events we hope you can attend! And be sure to read the cover story of this edition on Page 18 for details on the upcoming April 15 Record Launch Event for local artist Christian Vegh

April 16, 2023: It’s You, I Like A Celebration Of Music & Inclusivity

The talented musicians at 4th Wall Music (4thWallMusic.com) have something special coming up on April 16, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. — It’s You, I Like — a concert featuring the work of Fred Rogers of the TV series, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

The event takes place at the Capitol Theatre, 121 University Avenue West in Windsor.

Mister Rogers was a trained musician and his songs, were of unusual quality and insight. His music will be heard as arranged by Canadian composer Michael Park for string quartet, piano and a trio of voices, including local sopranos Aimee Clifford and Kate Reynolds.

Ms. Kate, sometimes called The Singing Librarian, is best known to her over 32k followers on social media as The Lavender Librarian.

She is thrilled to be sharing the stage with the amazing musicians at 4th Wall and to have this opportunity and platform to sing and to share her story of late identified autism. Reynolds only learned she was autistic in 2020 at the age of 35.

Like all 4th Wall productions, the program also includes some wonderful classical music, including a colourful take on a familiar aria by W.A. Mozart, Rimsky Korsakov’s Flight of the Bumblebee and a famous lullaby from Engelbert Humperdink’s Hansel and Gretel.

But that’s not all!

This concert is also a nostalgia bomb as it includes a few bits of Canadiana including the Sandwiches song by Fred Penner and Skinnamarink by Sharon, Lois & Bram.

Mister Rogers often reminded us that he liked us just as we are and the concert will be a reflection on many wonderful ways to be YOU.

As part of their commitment to diversity, attendees also get a special visit from Disco The Drag Queen, who will read: The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish.

After the concert, families can meet Disco and explore booths by Autism Ontario, Windsor Public Library, and Biblioasis

This concert is generously funded by a Performing Arts Infrastructure Grant through the Windsor Endowment for the Arts.

Tickets are $5 for children and $20 for adults (4thwallmusic.com/2022-23-ticket-purchase).

However, if that is not in your budget, due to some amazing individual donors and a large donation from Wheat Penny Press, FREE tickets are also available by emailing: info@4thwallmusic.com, no questions asked.

Everything is subject to availability, so make sure to request or purchase tickets right away!

April 23, 2023: The Order Of Canada And Juno Award Spotlight Concert

The Windsor Jazz Concert Series initiates the annual Order of Canada/Juno Award Spotlight with Toronto guitarist Reg Schwager, Sunday, April 23 at 2:30 p.m. at Mackenzie Hall, 277 Sandwich Street West in Windsor.

Windsor Jazz Concert Series (WJCS) is nonprofit and was formed in 2022 to continue the work of Windsor’s Hugh Leal, an independent promoter who started here in 1976.

His ongoing productions have proven to be the longest-running jazz in-concert series in Canadian history.

During this time, Leal has brought to Windsor 18 Juno Award winners, 11 Order of Canada recipients and three Grammy Award winners.

The new non-profit organization will annually bring artists who have won these awards, while also featuring top Detroit jazz musicians, the backbone of Leal’s productions over the years.

For this particular concert, Schwager, with a career spanning over 40 years, has proven to be one of Canada’s leading jazz artists, while making his mark internationally.

He is a four-time winner of Canada’s National Jazz Award for Guitarist of the Year, and is on five Juno Award winning albums.

In 2021, Schwager was invested with The Order of Canada “for his indelible contributions to the Canadian jazz scene as a leading guitarist and composer.”

He has led bands playing all of the country’s major jazz festivals and stages and has performed with Canadian greats Diana Krall, Oliver Jones, Dave Young and Peter Appleyard

From 1994 to 2004, Schwager performed around the world as a member of the legendary George Shearing Quartet

He can be heard on more than 200 recordings and is on the 1996 album Velvet and Brass by

Mel Torme and Rob McConnell, which won a Grammy Award

For the April 23 WJCS event, Schwager performs with Windsorites Michael Karloff, piano and Mike Palazzolo bass, with Detroit’s Chris Tabaczynski on sax. The program includes originals and hits made famous by George Shearing.

Port Windsor is the lead sponsor of this Spotlight Concert. Other WJCS sponsors include: WFCU Credit Union, Culmone Law, The Friends of The Court, Dr. Frank and Maria Csik, Long and McQuade Musical Instruments, Greater Detroit Jazz Society, Rock Bottom Bar and Grill, Biz X magazine, WRCJ FM 90.9, and AM800

Advance tickets are $30 or $35 at the door. Tickets are available only at the Mackenzie Hall Box Office in person, or by calling 519-255-7600 for credit card orders.

Find out more information about this event and upcoming jazz concerts on: WindsorJazzConcertSeries.com.

May 13, 2023: Celebrating Women In The Choral Arts

The Windsor Classic Chorale is excited to announce its first concert for 2023 — Celebrating Women in the Choral Arts.

From Hildegard de Bingen in the 12th century, through to the present day, women have made a significant contribution to choral music, which has often been overlooked.

In support of the women behind these compositions and their contributions, the Windsor Classic Chorale is proud to present a program of entirely female composers.

This one-night-only event is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 at the Salvation Army South Windsor Citadel, 1201 Grand Marais Road West. A reception immediately follows the concert.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at: WindsorClassicChorale.org.

Order of Canada jazz guitarist Reg Schwager. Photo courtesy of Jeannette Lambert.

National Volunteer Week April 16 To 22, 2023

Volunteering weaves us together, strengthening the fabric of our community by sharing our time, talent, and energy to support one another.

The Windsor-Essex Association of Volunteer Administration (WEAVA) is thrilled to celebrate the volunteers in Windsor Essex during National Volunteer Week, April 16 to 22, 2023 under the theme: Volunteering Weaves Us Together.

This reveals the importance of our individual and collective actions to help create a strong, interconnected, and vibrant community.

Since 1984, WEAVA has been committed to excellence in volunteer management, by providing networking and professional development opportunities to its members.

“To the volunteers of Windsor Essex and across the country, your work helps bridge our diverse communities and strengthens our foundation”, says Theresa Blondin, President of WEAVA and National Volunteer & Program Manager with Bladder Cancer Canada. “Whether that be through sorting canned goods, driving community

members, planning events, or providing a listening ear for those who need support, you make a difference in people’s lives every day. I want to say THANK YOU for developing trust, creating relationships, and making our lives more meaningful.”

Blondin continues by stating: “National Volunteer Week is also a great time to thank the leaders of volunteers. To the entire WEAVA membership and everyone who helps coordinate volunteers, we are so grateful. Your dedication and leadership can often go unnoticed, but the relationships you create with volunteers in our community is extraordinary! From the entire WEAVA Executive Committee, we thank you!”

During National Volunteer Week 2023, let’s celebrate our collective impact: through our kindness, generosity, and commitment to volunteering, we weave our lives together.

Woven together from coast to coast, volunteering reinforces our ability to grow, thrive, and create change within our community, province, and country.

The Wheels On The (Mega)bus Go Round And Round .

. . Now Between Detroit And Toronto

Megabus, one of the largest bus companies in North America has now begun selling tickets between Detroit, Michigan and Toronto, Ontario, for the first time, as an expansion of a recent partnership with Trailways of New York, the largest and oldest intercity travel provider in New York and select Canadian cities.

This partnership expansion allows for two trips daily between Detroit and Toronto, along with stops in Windsor, Chatham, London, and Paris, ON.

“We are pleased to be able to leverage our partnership with Trailways of New York to expand our service,” says Colin Emberson, VP Commercial for Megabus. “Offering cross-border service between Detroit and Toronto is a new and exciting opportunity for Megabus that will allow for several new travel options for our customers this spring.”

With low ticket pricing a priority and in an effort to increase transparency and provide their customers with peace of mind, Megabus has recently

introduced real time tracking on its buses. Customers can now monitor their buses with live departure and arrival times. To view a schedule and to purchase tickets (for travel beginning on April 5) go to: US.megabus.com.

Motivational Quotes

Danny Gautama is an inspirational writer who writes for mental health organizations, hospitals, and is a blogger on: BizXmagazine.com. He helps many on social media and is a two time recipient of the LoveMakers Foundation Awards. Connect with him by emailing: dannygautamawellness@gmail.com.

It is a magical moment when you can look in the mirror and realize that the way you look and the person you are does NOT need approval or validation from anyone.”

It’s time to hop on the bus, Gus! Megabus is now selling tickets between Detroit and Toronto. The buses emit the least carbon dioxide per mile when compared to other vehicles and are seven times more energy and fuel-efficient than single-occupancy automobiles. They are also three times more efficient in reducing carbon dioxide output when compared to commuter rail, and six times more efficient than transit buses. Photo courtesy of Megabus.

Convoy Technologies To Open New Factory In Windsor Essex

Convoy Technologies, Inc. announced its intent in mid-March to establish a new manufacturing facility in Windsor Essex at an undisclosed location.

“If the pandemic has taught us one thing,” Convoy Technologies’ President Ron Harker says, “it is that having control over your supply chain is the key to getting products to your customers quickly and reliably. Sourcing parts closer to home and assembling them in North America will ultimately give us shorter, more predictable lead times. And it will eventually help us contain total costs, meaning our customers can count on continued supply and competitive pricing.”

They hope to employ up to 50 employees and start operations as early as the fall of this year.

The company, which was established in 2008, will maintain its current distribution centre in Fort Wayne, IN., U.S.A., where its headquarters are located.

Convoy Technologies, Inc. (see the website: ConvoyTechnologies.com) is a leading provider of innovative industrialgrade safety products, including cameras,

monitors, sensors, recording systems, and accessories, serving the Heavy Duty On-and-Off-Road Industries.

Their goal is to provide education and leading-edge products geared toward improving the safety, productivity, and security of its partners.

The local Canadian Invest WindsorEssex

Investment Attraction team began working with Convoy Technologies in September 2022 and provided valuable labour cost analysis, site selection, and introductions to post-secondary institutions.

“Invest WindsorEssex welcomes the addition of Convoy Technologies to our region as a valued an integral part of our rapidly growing automobility ecosystem,” states Stephen MacKenzie, President and CEO of Invest WindsorEssex.

Invest WindsorEssex is the lead economic development agency for the Windsor Essex area.

The focus of the organization is to develop and execute strategies to retain, expand, attract and help new businesses start-up in the region.

The not-for-profit organization is led by a board of distinguished community leaders.

Their staff can assist business owners in starting a new business, expanding to Windsor Essex or growing their company with new innovate solutions; they have access to the right resources and offer advice to help you reach success. For more information go to: InvestWindsorEssex.com.

Shown is one of the company’s products, the 1700A Extreme Series High Definition Camera — highly ruggedized with a Starlight Sensor for a wider range of colours, 120 degree horizontal viewing angle with infrared night vision. Photo courtesy of Convoy Technologies.

King Of Hope . . . A Story Of Uncertain Times FROM THE BOOKSHELF

How do people deal with environmental uncertainty? Some try to get more information or government help, and others call it fake news.

A novel published October 2022 — King of Hope, written by Windsor writer and podcaster Kim Conklin and published by Windsor-based Palimpsest Press — examines our divided contemporary reality through the story of a small town that’s faced radical uncertainty for generations.

Hartley Addison, one of the main characters, is the local newspaper editor and mayor in Port D’Espere, a fictional small town on the north shore of Lake Erie.

People all over town have been discovering hidden pockets of environmentally hazardous waste since the Manhattan Project, and Hart and one group of citizens keep petitioning for a health study.

Others actively prefer to believe the government position that “There is no problem.”

When the national media circus comes to town chasing the story of an escaped chicken from the local poultry plant, Hart wants to believe that help has arrived at last.

Will he be able to help his local citizenry gain some justice, whether they want it or not?

Conklin began writing the book during a period when she was writing screenplays.

“It started with an image of a young girl in a lawn chair sunning herself by an empty motel pool while wearing a hazmat suit,” she recalls. “I thought the story would be another screenplay, but as I worked on it, it grew into a novel.”

Award winning authors share their comments on the novel.

“Kim Conklin has written an important story for our times with repercussions and relevance

Kim Conklin is a writer, filmmaker and podcaster. Her stories, poems and films have appeared in journals, anthologies and film festivals. Conklin’s journalism has appeared in broadcast and print, and her communications work has received more than 15 awards, including a Clio and a NY International Film Festival award. Photo courtesy of the author.

reaching far beyond the town of Port D’Espere, Ontario,” states Terry Fallis, two-time winner of the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour. “First rate storytelling keeps the pages turning. Bravo.”

According to Heidi LM Jacobs, also a winner of the Leacock Medal: “Kim Conklin has created a memorable cast of characters who try to make sense of their lives in their own quirky way.”

The novel was included on the list of CBC Books: 65 works of Canadian fiction to watch for in fall 2022 (CBC.ca/books)

King of Hope is available at all major retail and independent bookstores in Canada and the U.S., and on: PalimpsestPress.ca.

Locally in Windsor you can pick it up at: Biblioasis, 1520 Wyandotte Street East; Whiskeyjack Boutique, 68 University Avenue West; Storytellers Bookstore, 1473 Ottawa Street and Juniper Books, 1990 Ottawa Street. It’s also in Amherstburg at River Bookshop, 67 Richmond Street.

The Windsor Police Service And Palm Tree Justice

Op-Ed By Steven Bezaire

“We perform our duties with professionalism, accountability and integrity . . .”

~ From the Windsor Police Service’s Mission Statement, cited on its website.

“We openly identify and address problems and willingly accept responsibility for our actions.”

~ From the Windsor Police Service’s core values, under “Accountability,” also cited on its website.

“A fish rots from the head down ”

~ Ancient Turkish proverb.

Have you ever tried to discern, from reading media reports, press releases and their own statements, a consistent logic as to when the Windsor Police identify individuals charged with crimes? And I don’t mean crimes involving minors or when the identity of vulnerable or innocent people can only be preserved by withholding that information.

But what about impaired drivers? Break and enter perpetrators? Stunt drivers? Sometimes individuals are identified; sometimes not.

I’ve never been able to identify a coherent practice. Given the importance of that information to community members and the potential to significantly damage lives and reputations, isn’t the treatment of such sensitive information an incredibly important power these public servants wield?

In December 2019, Windsor Police announced it had solved one of the city’s oldest, most heinous and infamous cold case homicides: the 1971 rape and murder of Ljubica Topic, a six-year-old local girl who was lured away by a stranger who offered her some money for helping him with a job in her Drouillard Road neighbourhood, one late afternoon in May.

When her eight-year-old brother returned home at dusk and reported what happened to their mother, “one of the biggest manhunts in Windsor’s history began.” It ended only hours later when an officer with a flashlight found her beaten and lifeless body in an alley behind a home on Hickory Road.

Most locals knew of the cold case. It was the subject of much media attention over the years, locally and nationally, especially on significant anniversaries — including on the Biz X website: (BizXmagazine.com/ljubica-topic-cold-caseactive) — which posted information in a 45-year anniversary retrospective on the case on April 21, 2016 inviting members of the public to contact WPS’s Major Crime Branch or Crime Stoppers with tips).

So, it was perplexing when Windsor Police announced it had solved the murder all these years later, allegedly based on DNA evidence that was maintained in the file, but provided no identifying information for the perpetrator.

The rapist-murderer suspect was a 22-year-old man named Frank Arthur Hall who had since relocated to Edmonton where he died at the age of 70 in February 2019. Police had withheld that information, arguing that providing it somehow violated the deceased Hall’s right to privacy because he had died without ever having been charged — although it had, on a previous occasion, named a dead murder suspect in the past.

This wasn’t a hasty decision: the Windsor Police Service (WPS) fought a Freedom Of Information (FOI) request by the Windsor Star for over three years to keep the information secret.

At the announcement, their reasoning was described by then Sgt. Betteridge: “the law…is in black and white and spells out how this set of circumstances that we have does not fit the criteria to legally publish the name.” (As quoted in the Windsor Star.)

In a column, published the very day following Betteridge’s statement, however, the Windsor Star cited a criminologist (Michael Arntfield of Western University) who asserted the easilyverifiable proposition of law, which was as accurate then as it is now . . .

“You cannot libel a dead person and a dead person does not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.”

That the WPS imagined the rights of a deceased murderer/rapist outweighed the community’s right to know the truth — to say nothing of what light revealing that information could shed upon other unsolved crimes — stretches credulity.

Puzzled that a detailed perusal of its website disclosed no information about, or link to such a policy, I called the Windsor Police Service’s Communications Centre and asked where same could be found. I was advised by the Director of Corporate Communications that there is such a policy, but that it is “internally facing only” — not available to the public.

This is the problem: any authority granted in informal or opaque policies that empower a select few public servants, with untrammeled discretion and no real oversight or accountability, is inimical to democracy.

An old law school professor of mine said such scenarios result in “palm tree justice” — haphazard

If you have a comment on this column and want Steven to see it, visit the Biz Blog section on: BizXmagazine.com where you can have YOUR SAY on the topic too!

application of differing or vague principles by different individuals.

So, it was not in the least surprising to learn, seven weeks after it happened, that an Acting Deputy Police Chief was caught stunt driving 111 km per hour in a 70 km zone, in early January of this year, but that he was not initially charged and was allowed to leave the scene in his own vehicle.

Presumably this means that he also did not face the 14-day vehicle impoundment or 30-day licence suspension that you or I would have.

As with the Topic/Hall disclosure issue, the WPS only cracked when it became obvious that public revelation was inevitable. As reported in the Windsor Star February 9, 2023: “Windsor Police said that the service’s new leadership team under Chief Jason Bellaire ‘re-examined and ultimately overturned’ the longstanding refusal to reveal the killer’s name.”

But, the same story indicates that the Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC) was going to announce a decision early in the New Year anyway, and that: “As a result of correspondence received from IPC, Windsor Police Service made the decision” to disclose the suspect’s identity. Undeterred, the Chief averred at the time: “We are committed to operating with full transparency and serving the interests of the people of Windsor and Amherstburg.”

Likewise, the stunt driving fiasco was only disclosed once a CBC reporter tweeted on February 25 that he was learning about the incident, and he had filed a FOI request.

The Windsor Police Service’s public disclosure of the incident occurred two days later.

Is there any doubt but that in the absence of that reporter having discovered the infraction, news of its occurrence, or even the charges themselves, would never have occurred?

Many questions remain — but don’t bank on voluntary answers.

Windsor Police Service: palm tree justice. Same as it ever was.

Steven Bezaire is a local lawyer, humourist, former infant, an accomplished napper, and loves all puppy dogs and babies in the world.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and may or may not represent the views or opinions of those associated with Biz X magazine.

University of Windsor Continuing Education recently announced a partnership with Stellantis for the upcoming session of its Applied Leadership Program. As the industry project partner, Stellantis will provide a case scenario to participants, along with valuable feedback on learners’ capstone presentations at the end of the program. “The automotive sector is rapidly changing as we prepare for an electric future and with that comes a significant shift in the way we manufacture vehicles,” says Jacqueline Oliva, Head of HR for Stellantis Canada. “The Windsor Assembly Plant team of Stellantis is pleased to partner with the University of Windsor to bring a hands-on approach to problem solving and change management by way of a case study. We are looking forward to reviewing the creative solutions generated by this talented group of students and are happy to play a small role in shaping their educational experience.” The program offers participants the opportunity to make professional connections with industry leaders, hone leadership and soft skills through teamwork, and develop communication strategies and leadership plans in support of organizational strategy. Participants will be encouraged to inspire action in others by practicing hands-on tactics and acquiring the necessary skills to lead resilient teams to successful outcomes, culminating in an industrysponsored capstone project. Organizations are encouraged to send key individuals who require leadership training, or who they have identified as potential leaders in their company. “We look forward to working with Stellantis as our Industry Project Partner for the spring term,” adds Jennie Atkins, Executive Director of UWindsor Continuing Education. “As our region leads the way in Electric Vehicle production, this partnership will allow learners to problem-solve a potential real-world scenario and practice the latest techniques to guide their teams and set them up for success in the future.” The program is in-person and open for registration to current and aspiring managers, supervisors, and industry leaders. The eight, half-day modules take place on Thursdays, 5 to 8:30 p.m., April 20 to June 8, 2023 Information about the program can be found here: Uwindsor.ca/continuingeducation/507/ applied-leadership-program.

In partnership with the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary the Kingsville

Highland Games (KHG) will now be held on Ty Cobb Field at the sanctuary, 332 Road 3 West in Kingsville on Saturday, June 24, 2023. The KHG committee is delighted to have found a location where every exciting element of the games can be enjoyed on one level, making it a truly immersive experience for all. The kilted 5km Run/Walk will also take place on the grounds of the sanctuary involving a mix of on and off-trail paths in Kennedy Woods. So be sure to flock to Jack Miner’s in June and take a gander at the games! View the complete schedule and all the fun activities in the coming weeks at: JackMiner.ca and: Facebook.com/KingsvilleHighlandGames.

in new infrastructure, provides answers to healthcare problems unique to our region, and aids in rapid adoption of the best prevention and care practices. And, data shows that patients treated in institutions that conduct medical research live longer. This is not an advantage that can be reserved for those living only in larger cities: we need and deserve that here in Windsor Essex.”

NEW IN BIZ

Windsor Essex healthcare and academic institutions are marking a three year milestone since they joined together using a one-of-akind model designed to elevate health research excellence — an innovative model that has been proved to deliver exceptional results. WE-SPARK Health Institute is an official partnership of Erie Shores HealthCare, HôtelDieu Grace Healthcare, St. Clair College, the University of Windsor and Windsor Regional Hospital, governed by a Board of Trustees made up of the CEOs of the respective organizations (WEsparkhealth.com). The seeds of the institute began about 13 years ago as a grassroots effort among health researchers and healthcare professionals across the Windsor Essex region, and after years of planning and consultations, officially launched on March 9, 2020. Since its launch, WE-SPARK boasts a number of accomplishments. Local health researchers have attracted almost $30M in external funding to the region, included local patients in clinical trials, engaged in almost 700 collaborations, and provided training opportunities for over 1,000 St. Clair College and University of Windsor students on research projects. Through the WE-SPARK grants program, 52 local grants have been awarded, totalling almost $1M. “Health research has far-reaching benefits,” says Dr. Lisa Porter, WE-SPARK Executive Director. “It creates an academic culture that attracts and retains the best and brightest in healthcare, keeps our professionals current, supports the best learning experience for students, empowers and educates the community, delivers new therapies, brings

A new location of the Laundry Depot is now open at 1707 Tecumseh Road West in Windsor as of January 31, 2023. The business is owned by the Abraham family who have also operated a Leamington Laundry Depot at 264 Erie Street South for over 15 years. According to Tony Abraham (also the owner of T/A General Contracting), they hope to continue this successful trend in Windsor with future county locations on their radar. Offering the largest capacity stainless steel machines in the area, their list of services include on-site change and free Wi-Fi. There’s plenty of free parking, vending and ABM machines, and lots of parking spots too. Twenty four hour surveillance cameras for your safety and convenient hours, seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. are also part of their advantages. (View social media page: Facebook.com/Laundry.Depot.Windsor.)

HALL OF FAME

Business Elite Awards have published their 2023 list of Top 40 Under 40 leaders in Canada, and Leamington-based CEO and entrepreneur Kyra Cole has been named an awardee. The Top 40 Under 40 by Business Elite Awards is a prestigious award given to top business leaders from around the world. As the owner and CEO of KLB Consulting

An exterior and interior look at Windsor’s newest selfserve coin laundry facility at 1707 Tecumseh Road West, the Laundry Depot. Photos courtesy of Tony Abraham.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A Taste For Life Fundraiser In Support Of Pozitive Pathways

511 Pelissier Street, Windsor

By David Clark

Here’s an upcoming event to look forward to. It’s the talk of the town every year and in communities all across Canada, a fundraiser supporting local AIDS service organizations, taking place Wednesday, April 19, 2023

A culinary affair, this is . . . A Taste For Life

Quite simply, selected restaurants in Windsor will have people dine-in with 25% of the proceeds going directly to the hosting agency in Windsor, Pozitive Pathways Community Services. Additionally, diners have the opportunity to donate privately at the table, if they wish.

This is a dining experience that supports programs and services for people affected by HIV or HCV (Hepatitis C Virus).

To quote Kevin Blondin, Community & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator with Pozitive Pathways: “How can you go wrong? You can spend a special evening in your favourite restaurants and they agree to donate a portion of the evening’s food and bar sales to support our programs and services. This will take place in more than 20+ cities nationwide.”

In particular, the event assists vulnerable

people within the community. Some of the programs funded with Pozitive Pathways (formerly the AIDS Committee of Windsor) are support services, including case management, practical assistance, food and nutrition, social programming, education and outreach programs, and volunteer services.

“Pozitive Pathways is a registered charity that provides advocacy, support, harm reduction, health promotion and outreach services for people living with, affected by, or at risk of HIV, Hepatitis C Virus and other sexually transmitted blood-borne infections in the Windsor Essex region,” explains Blondin. (Refer to: PozitivePathways.com).

On location at any of the participating restaurants, volunteer taste greeters, act as hosts at the selected restaurants to offer information to diners who wish to support the cause for chances to win prizes. A QR code will also be handed out to diners who may wish to donate at a later time. All donations of $20 or more receive a tax receipt.

“Celebrating food for a cause, A Taste for Life also works with the selected restaurants to try to create some specialty items for the event,” Blondin states. “This increases traffic to the restaurants on event day, giving the public an opportunity to try something tasty and new.”

A Taste for Life started in Ottawa in 1999 as a joint effort of Bruce House and the Snowy Owl AIDS Foundation. The tradition now continues with Bruce House operating A Taste for Life, which has been joined by communities from across the country, including Windsor.

Two of the local restaurants that Pozitive Pathways has chosen to participate are Bally’s Kitchen and Piccolo’s Pizza & Pasta House, which are featured next in this article.

To begin with, when you require original Italian cuisine and top notch catering services, you need to get to Piccolo’s Pizza & Pasta House (2135 Tecumseh Road West, Windsor; PiccolosWindsor.com) proudly serving the region since November 18, 1989.

Owner/Operator Cindy Piccolo states: “We offer superb quality and enormous quantity to all our clients in the Windsor area.”

For 34 years Piccolo’s has been involved in every charity they can help out with, including donating gift cards, creating

Get ready to dig in! Proud supporters of A Taste For Life and employees of Pozitive Pathways, Rich O’Brien and Weedor Koiblee hold up symbols of the fundraiser. Photo by Lacie Krzemian.

wonderful gift baskets for silent auction tables, setting up appetizer stations and going full force into charity catering, depending on the situation.

According to Piccolo: “A Taste For Life is an important fundraiser helping people in society who may have been forgotten about and require funding for many diseases, including HIV. This event goes directly into helping find cures for people who have viruses, and are still suffering.”

On April 19, Piccolo’s serves up a Taste Of Italy entrée with a combination of all their traditional bests, including Fettuccine Alfredo, Lasagna and a choice of Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, with either a Garden Salad or Soup, for $40 per person, with $20 from each dish donated back to Pozitive Pathways. No gift cards will be accepted on this day.

Known for their extravagant catering offerings too, in-house or outbound, they offer customizable menus with aesthetically pleasing presentations for special events, including corporate gatherings, weddings and birthdays and more.

With Windsor being known for outstanding pizza — whether wood fire, thin or thick crust — Piccolo’s has one of the best deep dish pizzas around. They also make traditional Windsor pizza.

As for authentic traditional Italian food at the restaurant, they serve it all, including Linguini Con Gamberetti, Crispy Chicken Caesar Tortellini, and Cheesy Cheddar Chicken (See page 3 for a photo).

“Let’s try to make April 19, 2023 a record breaking day for donations,” expresses Piccolo. “Everybody works so hard on this and we expect a big turnout to celebrate the cause.”

For a trip to the exotic and spicy if you want it, look no further than Bally’s Kitchen (157 Erie Street East, Windsor; BallysKitchen.ca), a Vietnamese and Thai cuisine restaurant established in July 2021.

Owner/Operators, Melly Ana and husband Budi Wibowo, offer authentic Southeast Asian cuisine with fresh ingredients, always tasty and unique in every way, making your meal memorable each time.

“With success at Bally’s as of late, we have been able to grow the business, surviving a renovation that provides for 28 additional seats,” Wibowo mentions.

Regarding the food, a full host of traditional fare includes the popular Singapore Laksa, a thin rice noodle dish, with fish cake, tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, cilantro and shallots in Laksa broth.

Investigating even further you will find another familiar noodle favourite, Pad Thai.

Others are the Pho, a rice noodle soup and Pad See Ew, flat rice noodles with egg.

And the beautifully prepared Indonesian Fried Rice also has an egg centre, surrounded by flavourful rice.

Melly Ana comments: “Our vision is to further expand the menu to include more traditional and authentic dishes from those regions. We’ll also have a special menu (a two-can-dine special only) for the big day (April 19).”

Bally’s is fully prepared, following health protocols with dine-in, and pickup and delivery waiting on your call.

As mentioned in an article a few years ago by Biz X Publisher Deborah Jones: “A Taste for Life is a wonderful opportunity to break bread with people in this incredibly generous community, show your support, and take part in a fun national fundraiser.”

At the time of writing, restaurants were still coming on board to support the cause for this year. Three recent

are Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge, 804 Erie Street East; the Orient Restaurant, 5841 Malden Road and The Barbershop Bar, 2587 Howard Avenue.

For the updated list of participating restaurants go visit the website page: ATasteForlife.org/Windsor-Essex.

sign-ups

(1) Made to order, you will never go wrong with Piccolo’s signature Deep Dish Pizza with selections like Meat Eaters, Piccolo’s Classico and the Mediterranean.

(2) A culinary delight awaits Piccolo’s diners with the Linguini Con Gamberetti, a spicy combination of gulf shrimp, diced local grown tomatoes, button mushrooms and other ingredients, blanketed by a chili garlic calabrese sauce. Photos courtesy of Piccolo’s staff.

(3) Fully loaded with an egg on top, it’s a surf and turf-like combo with chicken and shrimp, in the Indonesian Fried Rice dish at Bally’s Kitchen. (4) A popular selection at Bally’s Kitchen, the Singapore Laksa is a true seafood delight with the added tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, cilantro and shallots in Laksa broth. Photos courtesy of Haley Labute.

CHRISTIAN VEGH “A Musician’s Musician”

According to MixMag.net, less than 0.4% of musicians would be potentially able to make a living solely from streaming. So how can an individual make ends meet and still pursue their passion? What makes someone brave enough, (or crazy enough) to tough it out as a musician?

Wecaught up with Christian Vegh, our 2016 Artist of the Year Biz X Award winner, to check on his progress and to see how he managed to stay committed and passionate after the pandemic cancelled all live music when restrictions were in place.

Often referred to as a “guitar prodigy,” Vegh graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston and four days later signed a contract with RL Records in Detroit. When Tom McDonough (RL’s President) moved to Mi5 Recordings — Universal Music Group (based in New York City), Vegh was one of the few artists he took with him from Detroit.

New Record Launch Event: April 15, 2023

It is evident that Vegh is gaining attention for his vocals and getting a lot of attention for his song writing abilities.

He is set to release his fourth album — entitled AAA — at a Record Launch Event on April 15, 2023 at the Lakeshore St. Andrew’s Church (8 p.m.), 235 Amy Croft Drive. Tickets are $20 and available on: Eventbrite.com (part of the sales will go to the music program at Lakeshore St. Andrew’s).

Over 500 attended his last concert fundraiser at the Capitol Theatre when the proceeds raised were enough for four local musicians to receive Christian Vegh Music Scholarships.

“I’m excited for the upcoming April 15 event highlighting songs from all four albums, especially since COVID cancelled the Portraits of Sentiment 2020 launch,” Vegh states. “I am also excited to bring Slight Return USA to perform in Canada for the first time.”

He points out: “As an Indie artist I am really hoping for a great turnout. Musicians get .004 cents per music stream so it is difficult to recoup recording costs. Live performance and merchandise are often the main source of revenue to support Indie artists.”

Indie artists sometimes use a Go Fund Me approach to releasing music, but Vegh says he would rather perform and show people what

they are investing in through their support.

“I want them to get an instant return for their money — hours of quality, live music entertainment,” he expresses.

Quick Love, the first song of the new album was pre-released and AAA will also come out in vinyl. Pre-orders are available at the Record Launch Event. (You can see the Quick Love video here: YouTube.com/watch?v=x4KPq-3x4iQ).

“I sent out an email asking for help and volunteers for the launch and I received a response from a supporter living in San Jose, California who offered to sponsor the vinyl pressing, which totally shocked me,” Vegh reveals.

Local artist Asaph Maurer created the AAA album cover art and will be on hand to sign limited edition art prints of the cover. Coincidentally, Maurer is also a Biz X Award winner for Artist of the Year (2019)!

The opening act for the launch event is Slight Return USA of Detroit, Michigan. The band

was chosen as the 2022 Midwest USA Band of the Year by UK magazine’s Prestige Awards.

Vegh is part of Slight Return USA, along with: Mark Kassa (guitar and vocals); William Pope (bass guitar and vocals); Ronnie Karmo (drums and vocals); and Tony Mitchell (percussionist and vocals).

Find out more about their discography, merchandise and bio on: SlightReturn.com.

Even though Vegh is member of this band, he continues to perform in North America and Europe as a solo artist and also tours with Billboard pop star, Meresha (Meresha.com).

Tom McDonough, Director of A&R at Mi5 Recordings — Universal Music Group (Detroit) has this to say about Vegh: “Christian in my opinion is a rarity in the music world. He certainly has a rare talent and ability to create music that will rival the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page His outlook and professionalism set him apart from most up-and-coming artists today. We look forward to what the future holds for us.”

The cover of Christian Vegh’s new album AAA, released April 2023. Cover Art by artist Asaph Maurer.

Surviving The Pandemic

Two weeks after Vegh’s last album was released, COVID hit, and all tours and events were cancelled, but Portraits of Sentiment continued to gain radio play.

The first song on this album, which was released by Universal Music Group, was 90’s Movie, produced by Jack Endino from Soundhouse who is known for his work with Soundgarden and Nirvana. The song charted for 13 weeks on the DRT Global Charts (DigitalRadioTracker.com) making it to #26.

“It was an amazing experience to fly out to Seattle and work with Endino — he even played on some of the songs on the album,” Vegh recalls.

The second song, I Think I’m Gonna Die Young, made it to #13 on the DRT Global Rock Charts.

Vegh tells Biz X that the pandemic changed the industry in so many ways and when your strength is performing live it is totally devastating. He explains how he used the time to work on his vocals and guitar chops, but really focused on song writing.

“I strive to make/play undeniably unique and exceptional music, that people crave to listen to and I think all other good things come from this core vision,” Vegh says. “There were times when I felt like giving up, but it was the creative process that kept me going. I worked to pioneer a new genre in my home studio. It was an era of trial and error that led me to discover how I wanted to distinguish myself from other composers.”

He continues: “That’s what really kept me going. Every time I went to create something, the music went further and further into a unique direction. It was exciting to experience and it’s the discoveries along the way that kept me motivated to continue this path. It is essential to have a unique sound and vision — all of humanities most cherished works of art came from an undeniably unique perspective of life.”

Staying performance-ready is also important and Vegh hits the gym and takes ballet classes to stay in shape, improve posture

and strengthen his core, which is vital when you’ve been playing the guitar for so many years.

For his mental strength, he likes to put his body through stressful situations like cold exposure, completing a routine three and a half minutes in the cold every time he takes a shower. Vegh finds that spending time in the true fight or flight state of mind can help you tackle performance nerves with ease.

Words Of Inspiration

Vegh credits the support and encouragement from other musicians as a godsend.

A good example of this happened during the worst of the pandemic restrictions when Canadians were not even allowed to sing in church. Vegh was performing with Slight Return USA at a huge Wounded Warriors Fundraiser/Event. He had an opportunity to also perform with legend Billy Davis, an American rock and blues guitarist, singer and songwriter and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee.

He told his parents to try and make it to Michigan for this huge event, which included politicians and military VIPs arriving by helicopter, right in front of the stage.

Vegh was quitting music for good. This was going to be his last performance, so they had to drive to Toronto and fly back to Detroit.

After the performance, Davis changed Vegh’s mind by a few kind words.

“I’ve been around a long time and even taught Hendrix,” Davis commented. “You have it kid. You have an amazing ability to improvise and you’ve got your own unique sound. I know you’re going to be one of the greats someday.”

Vegh first attracted attention as a guitarist who is known for his clean and flawless playing. There is no hiding behind a lot of gain. You hear lightning scales and he bends each note achieving an incredible tone.

Looking around the crowd you can see people’s reaction to his performance and musicians shaking their heads as they are mesmerized watching every riff.

When asked what part of his career he enjoys, it is both creating songs and performing.

“I love writing and recording songs, but performing live with a great band and the thrill of hearing a song that started off as just a thought — in a full-fledged mix with real instruments and real players — is just incredibly exciting to hear it all come to fruition,” Vegh responds.

The Music Industry

He believes the hardest part of this career is that the music industry is becoming increasingly volatile in terms of monetizing music.

What should be an era of independence for artists, where the cream rises to the top via the internet, has instead turned into an elitist coalition between major labels and streaming platforms.

“Oddly enough it is one of the only industries in the world where the value of a song (product) is not determined by the free market, but by an oligarchy of streaming platforms who’ve set the price of the art creators are making,” he says and adds: “The promise of exposure and the convenience of being searchable on Spotify has led to one of the largest devaluations of music we’ve ever witnessed.”

He hopes that “with the advancements made in WEB3 and blockchain technology, that the middleman (streaming services), may come to a well-deserved end, and listeners will be able to access a de-centralized music library blockchain where artists are in complete control of who can stream their music, as well as being the direct payee of royalties.”

Some indicators that Vegh is “making it” include when he reached a #4 ranking on ReverbNation with over 320,000 fans.

He has also received over 3.6 million

on YouTube for Hotel California

views

All four of Vegh’s albums and singles are available for direct purchase on his website: ChristianVegh.com and on streaming platforms. Prior to his latest release, April 2023, past albums from left are: Portraits of Sentiment, 2020 (Cover Art by Lauren Eppler); Christian Vegh, 2016 (Cover Art by Marta’s Lens Photo) and Red Legacy, 2014 (Cover Art by Emily Marley).

A group shot of Slight Return USA at 54 Sound in Detroit, Michigan while recording Them Changes (a Buddy Myles Tribute) in January 2023. From left (standing): Mark Kassa; William Pope; Morgan Vick (intern) and Steve Capp (Owner/Engineer of 54 Sound). (Seated): Ronnie Karmo, Tony Mitchell and Christian Vegh. Photo courtesy of Katzeyezz Photography.

and has received scholarships and awards from the American Federation of Music Vegh’s songs have made it to the finals of the CBC Searchlight and the International Song Writing Competition.

In addition he reached #18 on Top DRT Global Independent Airplay Charts and Top 10 on the DRT Rock Charts with Weekend Homewreck, a song he co-wrote and recorded (vocals and guitar) with Slight Return USA.

Weekend Homewreck made the first round ballot for the 65th annual Grammy Awards in 2023 for Best Rock Song.

YouTube has helped Vegh’s career in so many ways and he also plays guitar for YouTube sensation Glenn Fricker at Spectre Media Group (Windsor based) which opens a lot of doors and helps people recognize him in the guitar world.

We asked Vegh about some of his favourite performance memories and where he dreams about playing.

If he could perform anywhere it would be at the Royal Albert Hall, London, England, as many of his heroes including Pink Floyd, David Gilmour and Joe Bonamassa have played there.

conducted a memorial concert and tribute to my favourite composer, Igor Stravinsky (the most important person in the development of modern music) in 1972, on the anniversary of his death. It has always been a dream of mine to play at the same hall as my inspirations.”

For Vegh, performing in 2013 at The International Children’s Games at the WFCU Centre in front of 10,000 people was amazing, but he loved playing at the 2012 Tecumseh Corn Festival when he was 16 for an audience of 4,000 plus people.

“It was incredible — my first ‘big’ concert — and it taught me a lot about how to be cool under pressure,” he expresses. “It also made me really want to pursue the exhilarating feeling of playing live music to capture an audience.”

Six Strings Of Separation

This Tecumseh, Ontario festival led to a series of events that show you just how the music industry is connected.

They say there are only six degrees of separation between people in the music world, but Vegh calls it: “Six Strings of Separation in the Guitar World.”

Bernstein

“I would like to perform with all of them as special guests and since I’m dreaming I would have Jimi Hendrix up on stage if he were still with us,” he mentions. “Leonard

Guitarist Joe Bonamassa saw the video of Vegh and the local band playing one of his

Windsor musician Christian Vegh is available to perform at area festivals, public events, corporate and private parties. Here he is shown during the Asaph Maurer Exhibition Event held at Windsor’s Ugly Art Studio, 1156 Wyandotte Street East, October 2022. Photo courtesy of Vegh Management.

songs at the Corn Fest and tweeted: “These kids rock and are the reason I play guitar.”

This was the beginning of a connection that would start and end with Bonamassa.

After the tweet, Vegh applied to play on the Bonamassa Blues Cruise, but he was underage and unable to qualify for the auditions. However, he ended up on the cruise thanks to a birthday gift from his parents.

The night before the ship departed, while he was in the lobby of the Miami hotel he was staying in, he heard a voice call out: “Are you Christian Vegh?” It was Bonamassa’s bass player!

The bass player then said: “Hey kid you’re amazing! We were just watching your videos last night with Joe. He’s right here, come and meet him.”

Of course Vegh was very excited: “As Bonamassa said some really nice things about my playing and I was able to spend a few hours hanging out with all of them.”

Later on during the actual cruise: “I was playing in the lounge and Robben Ford, who was one of the Blues Cruise performers, stopped and watched me play and then he asked me my name and how old I was,” Vegh recounts. “He told me he would be watching for me as I was going to kick some ass!”

Fast forward two years later and Vegh receives a scholarship from The Blues

Foundation in Memphis, for music development, and is attending Ford’s guitar program.

Ford recognizes Vegh in the crowd and calls him up to perform with him. So, for the finale show he was asked to perform his original song, Chains in Mind, which he wrote when he was a finalist in the International Song Writing Competition and Bonamassa was one of the judges!

At this event Vegh met a guitar collector (who we will refer to as “Mr. Mentor”), who asked if he wanted him to play his original 1959 Les Paul for this performance. This collector has become an incredible friend and mentor and this story loops back to Bonamassa, his friend and avid collector.

“There is a saying ‘never meet your heroes’ and I think that’s a horrible saying,” Vegh remarks. “Hanging out with Bonamassa was a great moment of connection and getting to understand his creative habits was important.”

He continues by stating: “You can have preconceived notions about how other artists make music, but until you actually play some music together, you can never fully understand what they do. Getting to hear about Bonamassa’s moments of success and failure was also very eye opening.”

Bonamassa is probably one of the most successful unsigned totally independent

artists. He is the second biggest artist to tell Vegh to never give up the rights to his music as a guitarist, songwriter and producer.

Steve Vai gave him the same advice too.

After the pandemic, Vegh decided not to renew his contract and to re-gain the master copies to his songs and produce music as an independent artist.

Steve Morse, the guitarist from Deep Purple, also passed on his words of wisdom when he met Vegh while they were both waiting to be interviewed, along with Joe Walsh, at the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). All were representing Ernie Ball products and Vegh was named to Ernie Ball’s Brotherhood of the Guitar.

Christian Vegh and local award winning filmmaker Matthew Luppino of Luppo Studios Productions Inc. check footage of the music video, Glow in the Dark Stars, at Vegh’s Studio in 2021. Photo courtesy of Vegh Management.

Since this initial meeting, at subsequent NAMM shows Vegh connects with Morse.

What was his advice to Vegh you ask? “Finish university because you will always have connections that you can fall back on throughout your career.”

Contributing Factors Of Success

They say it takes a village to raise a child; well it takes the backing of a city and its surrounding community for a musician to make it.

Google the success rate in the music industry and you will quickly see it states only 0.04% of musicians achieve success!

Those who do make it have a whole team behind them contributing to their success. For Vegh this is definitely the case and he gives credit where credit is due.

There are so many local people and businesses that he considers part of his team, such as Producers: Marty Bak (SLR Studios), Walter Riggi (Riggi Media International Recording Studio), Steve Capp (54 Sound) and Glenn Fricker (Spectre Media Group); Videographers: Matthew Luppino (Luppo Studios Productions Inc.) and Tony Sosita (Subhype Studios) and Photographers: Gene Schilling, Kathy Moore, Marta’s Lens and Kathy Hyde Ruzan. Added to the list are businesses like Long & McQuade Musical Instruments, The Printin’ Place and Hogan’s Printing

He points out that even the Windsor Federation of Musicians played a huge role in his accomplishments. Their successful nomination of Vegh for the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Charles

McDaniel Youth Award for Diversity, Creativity, Innovation and Excellence in Music gained him international recognition.

Vegh was presented the award and a scholarship in 2016 at the AFM 100th convention in Las Vegas.

As mentioned, many refer to Vegh as a “guitar prodigy” and although he has an impressive family history of musicians, including composers Franz Schubert (he’s believed to be a descendant) and Sandor Vegh, he attributes his success to a combination of factors.

“The main contributing factor is the support I’ve received from people around me,” he notes. “I don’t think it would be possible for me to be successful, without circumstances that gave me the time and resources needed to create music.”

Mentors Matter

“Having the opportunity to graduate from Berklee and being around other fantastic musicians always helped to push my growth as a musician,” Vegh adds. “I can’t believe some of the people I have created music with, shared a stage with or had on my albums, including Tony Franklin (The Firm), Warren Huart (Aerosmith), Stacy Heydon (David Bowie), Matt Bissonette (Elton John), Matt Star (Mr. Bigg), Greg D’Angelo (White Lion), Gregg Bissonette (Ringo Starr) and Vaughn Klugh (Jazz great) . . . All of my teachers have contributed to my musical capabilities, and though it takes a willing and curious student to open the door, you must be shown the right doors first.”

He now keeps up with his theory by teaching guitar lessons at Elite Studios in Windsor, two days a week.

“While there are so many pieces of influence my teachers have passed on to me, there are a few that are very memorable,” Vegh shares. “Interestingly it’s often the most simple piece of information that has the greatest impact; almost all great melodies have more steps than leaps, the golden ratio will be apparent in all the most memorable pieces, great melodies move from slow to fast divisions, and remember to preserve the natural shape of the language.”

Music professionals like Woody Wood (A&R, RL Recordings), and McDonough (Mi5 Recordings — Universal Music Group) have supported and believed in his career and musicians are always helping and giving him useful advice and guidance.

“In life, I’m lucky to have outstanding support from my family and friends and mentors who have guided and enriched, not only my career, but my life, like “Mr. Mentor” and Mark Kassa (Slight Return USA),” acknowledges Vegh. “They are two of

the hardest-working people I know. They also have a way of remaining so genuine while being able to accomplish so much.”

Family, Friends And The Fans

Vegh knows he is blessed to have the support of his family, friends and the fans.

“Over the years I have gathered a loyal following and there are those I consider ‘superfan friends’,” he says. “They kept me going by sending me messages of encouragement, letting me know they hadn’t forgotten me and I know how much they missed watching me play live.”

He even invited some of them to his house when he was performing outdoors at a family event during the pandemic.

“I’m also grateful that the universe has been very generous with gifting my moments of inspiration, and I’m very grateful for being a dual citizen, which allowed me to play in the U.S. over the latter half of the pandemic while Canada was still shut down,” he mentions.

Media Helps Make The Musician

In Vegh’s opinion: “The media are probably the defining factor in any musician’s career and for me, without the media I’d still be an unknown guitarist playing in my basement.”

“I’m very appreciative for all the coverage over the years, from the first article by Lou Durnbeck (Canada South Blues Society) to Pat Blythe’s review, Segarini: Don’t Believe A Word I Say; Society of Rock Review; articles in magazines such as Cashbox,

Slight Return USA made the first round ballot (and has for the sixth consecutive year) in six Grammy categories this year, so band member Mark Kassa attended the 65th annual awards ceremony with his wife Marilyn. They are pictured on the red carpet at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 5, 2023. The band was included in categories, such as Best Rock Song, Best Rock Album, Best Rock Video and others.

The Christian Vegh Band and drummer Adam Thomson rock it out at the Rock ‘n’ Rides Festival in Royal Oak, MI August 2019. Photo courtesy of Vegh Management.

Guitar Player and two cover photos for Biz X,” Vegh recounts. “It’s the local support that has meant the most to me. Our local media were not only a part of my journey, they helped make it happen.”

One of the things the media often comment on is that Vegh is very humble. How does he stay grounded with all this attention?

“Pride is not a virtue, and the risk for musicians being consumed by a blinding pride is high, however, it is important to trust your artistic vision, and double down on a direction to avoid a shadow of doubt,” he answers. “The moment you begin to boast to people around you, is the moment you are happy with where you are musically, which can lead to artistic stagnation.”

The late great BB King used to say that when he went on stage he had to believe no one was better than him. However, when he left the stage, he had to remember he wasn’t better than anyone else.

The Future Is Bright

What does Vegh hope to accomplish through music?

From the moment he first played on stage, he knew this would be his life. He continues to diversify his revenue streams, recently

scoring the music for award winning local filmmaker Matthew Luppino, teaching, writing/selling songs, doing studio work, performing in live shows, selling merchandise, getting sponsorships, movie/television sync placements, and even modelling and acting.

“To be remembered would be a fantastic start and I would also like to encourage artists to find creative ways to break rules and treat every respective song as its own unique universe, with its own set of laws and physics,” voices Vegh. “The most amazing songs are written by arranging aesthetically

pleasing textures and harmony, and choosing a complementary tempo and groove to support the spirit of the song.”

He reveals: “My ultimate goal is to pioneer cutting-edge music. I want to write and perform music that is undeniably unique and someday change how people think of music.”

Support Local Artists

For an opportunity to hear Vegh’s original music and support him on his musical journey, come out to see the AAA Record Launch Event, April 15 at 8 p.m. at Lakeshore St. Andrew’s Church, 235 Amy Croft Drive.

Tickets are $20 and available on: Eventbrite.com by searching “Christian Vegh Album Launch Performance Event.”

Links to all his social media pages can be found on his website: ChristianVegh.com.

If you’re interested in booking Vegh for an upcoming festival, public event, corporate or private function, please email: info@christianvegh.com.

From all of us here at Biz X magazine, we want to wrap up our cover story by mentioning how proud we are of Christian and everything he has accomplished to date.

We know he’s well on the road to stardom and look forward to what the future brings!

Christian Vegh photographed at the Sound Board theatre in the MotorCity Casino Hotel before performing with Slight Return USA in November 2022. Photo courtesy of Katzeyezz Photography.

May 25, 2023 6:00pm

We had so much fun last time, we had to do it again!

Formula First Collision Centre

Visit: kidney.ca/events

9420 Tecumseh Rd. E., Windsor

General Admission: $60, VIP: $90

Visit: kidney.ca/events

With appreciation to our sponsors:

PROFILING LOCAL WOMEN AT WORK

Story And Photo By Rebecca Wright

Candice Twees . . . Hits The Right Note In Helping People With Music Therapy

ccording to Candice Twees, her Inspired Sounds Music , supports people on their journey

“There is so much one can get out of music therapy,” she believes. “We develop individualized programs to support anyone and any goal.”

Along with being the Owner and Lead Therapist of Inspired Sounds Music Therapy, Twees is also a Certified Music Therapist (Canadian Association for Music Therapists) and a Neurological Music Therapy Fellow (NMT-F by The Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy).

She started her business in February 2010 and it’s located at 1168 Drouillard Road inside the Gino and Liz Marcus Community Complex

Online you can find details about all her programs at: InspiredSoundsMT.com.

“I provide music therapy services and music lessons to neurotypical individuals, neurodiverse individuals and persons with disabilities,” describes Twees. “I work on non-musical goals to help improve the quality of life.”

Her willingness to go above and beyond to make sure her clients are as successful as they can be, in her opinion, sets her apart in the industry from others.

“I adapt my approaches and the interventions — sometimes on the fly — to try and create a response that is positive and fulfilling,” she indicates.

The great thing about her music therapy business is being able to work with just about anyone, Twees points out. The goal in music therapy is non-musical, but they use music as the intervention.

“So, if a child is learning how to speak, we sing songs to give them the opportunity to use their speech,” Twees states. “If someone is learning how to increase relaxation, we use music to guide relaxation and breathing exercises. Sometimes music is used to bring people together that wouldn’t usually connect. Music is so powerful.”

Music affects people in different ways and while one person can have a positive connection, another person may have a negative one.

“We, as music therapists, try to find ways to use music to work on their goals,” she

explains. “Depending on the goal of the individual or group, we base our song choices and interventions on their likes as well as functionality. We don’t just sing songs to people. We have a reason for the specific songs we use. This is what sets music therapists apart from other musicrelated fields.”

Her inspiration behind becoming a music therapist goes back to when her grandfather died from cancer when she was 11 years old.

“While he was at home in his final days, I’d sing to him,” Twees recalls. “He was attached to equipment to monitor his vitals and they would react when I would sing to him. It was then I knew I wanted to use my talent to help people.”

She then went on to discover music therapy in her Grade 10 Careers class.

“I researched it and decided this is what I’m going to do,” states Twees. “I practiced, auditioned and got in. It was the only program I applied for. I can honestly say I’m living my dream.”

Twees says being a woman in business

can be difficult because she sometimes feels that she’s had to work harder to be heard or understood.

“Music therapy is a hard field to be in as many people don’t understand what I do and that in itself is challenging,” she expresses.

However, she does have an amazing support system.

“I have made some great friendships and connections with other women entrepreneurs in the community and I feel we can be strong together,” she mentions.

Another challenge she experiences, at times, is finding a balance between work and home life.

But, over the years, she’s learned to put boundaries up that she was willing to overlook before.

“I used to feel guilty not answering an email or returning a call, even if it was 11 p.m. at night, but I have realized that my family needs me too,” Twees says. “My advice to other female entrepreneurs is to not lose yourself in your work. Allow yourself to take time for you and do not feel guilty for self-care.”

Candice Twees is photographed surrounded by some of the many instruments she uses with individuals through her business, Inspired Sounds Music Therapy which specializes in youth and adults with exceptionalities.

Greg The “Nipper” Gnyp . . . Windsor’s Unvarnished Iconic DJ

By Joe McParland

Afew years ago, I was a guest on the AM800 CKLW morning show.

When I entered the Bell Media building at 1641 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor, I walked down a long hallway to the far south end where the AM800 studio was situated.

Along the way I passed several other studios that were home to other Bell Media radio stations in the area. Each had a large glass window looking into the studio.

At one of them, I stopped dead in my tracks.

Inside, wearing a wrinkled white t-shirt, shorts and sandals with white socks, with his bushy beard, left eyebrow piercing and greying tinged hair was Windsor’s unvarnished, iconic radio DJ — Greg the “Nipper” Gnyp

He was broadcasting on 93.9 The River

He spotted me and with waving arms signalled me to come into his studio. There he gave me the warmest bear hug greeting.

That’s Gnyp. That’s the Nipper. Genuine, warm, and welcoming.

In October 2020, Bell Media underwent an organizational restructuring (I call it a cull) releasing Gnyp and many of his colleagues.

Gnyp was out of radio.

For the April music issue of Biz X, I invited Gnyp to have a Cup of Joe with me while I interviewed him for this column. He agreed, but he had a pint of his favourite brew instead.

Joe McParland (JM): Gnyp, we’ll start off with the basics . . . what is your hometown, where did you go to school and what was your post secondary school degree in?

Greg Gnyp (GG): I was born in Windsor, raised in South Windsor, and went to Massey High

School and then the University of Windsor and graduated with a Communications Studies degree and did college radio for four years.

JM: I assume the radio work was with CJAM (a non-profit campus based community radio station)?

GG: Indeed it was. CJAM, 91.5 on your FM dial (now 99.1). It was a cool place and one of Windsor’s gems, with outreach into the metropolitan Detroit area.

JM: I’ve been told that you also obtained a journalism degree at the University of Terra Cotta?

GG: LOL . . . at times it felt like that. No, Terra Cotta Pizzeria at 318 Pelissier Street was the restaurant I owned with my sister Dina for 15 years from 1998 to 2013.

JM: When did you start in commercial radio?

GG: After graduating in May 1990, I interned with 89X (CIMX 86.7) in July just as it was

YourTV host Greg Gnyp with guest Josie Elysia, a local Windsor singer, songwriter, and performer creating alternative songs on her acoustic guitar, who also loves to dabble in makeup. To see a teaser of the episode she was in visit: YouTube.com/ watch?v=OU8dYWDkPWA. Photo courtesy of YourTV Windsor/Leamington.

starting up. I then was hired by accident when Greg St. James, the Program Director and the brains behind 89X, asked me one day to fill in for someone who called in sick for their scheduled 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. shift. I was terrified, but I did it and was hired.

JM: As a youngster, did you ever see yourself growing up to be a radio disc jockey?

GG: No, not at all! My goal, honestly, was to work for a record company. I wanted to be the guy who promoted records and promoted artists. That’s why I initially interned at 89 X; I was trying to get some insight into how to get artists and their records on the airwaves.

JM: Were you trying to become the male version of the famous Rosalie Trombley from AM800, the music director and former receptionist who was so powerful that she set the radio agenda across North America?

GG: Yes, I was! Exactly! And I would often talk with Rosalie. But, once I landed on the

air, I got the “bug” and I loved it. I was so fortunate to start with the likes of Greg St. James, John O’Leary, and my radio partner, David DeRoches. We were doing everything that the industry said couldn’t be done. For example, we used to do an overnight live broadcast from a Detroit club that was open until 5 a.m. on Fridays. We were known as the “Funky Fresh Cocoa Puffs”. We played rock alternative music and became one of the hottest radio stations in the Detroit market.

JM: So when did you move over to 93.9 The River?

GG: I started the end of 2005. At first, I was working both part time at 89X and full time at 93.9. The latter drew a more mature adult audience, which seemed a better fit for a more mature DJ . . . LOL. And that’s where I stayed until released in 2020.

JM: Gnyp, you are the only DJ I know without a vowel in your last name. And you are the only radio personality with a locally brewed beer named after you. Any other oddities you’d care to share? (Note: Chapter Two Brewing Company has released three different

“GNIPA” brews for fundraising purposes. The last one was for the Windsor-Essex Pride Fest this past summer, an organization that Gnyp strongly supports.)

GG: Another oddity? Well, I bought a house on your street — Victoria Avenue — while working at 93.9 The River. And the house number is 939. And to get to the house I need to turn left off Elliott Street, the name of one of my three Cavalier King Charles Spaniels — Primrose, Pearl and Eliot, aka “The Pack”).

JM: You have frequently said in your selfdeprecating way that you had a face only for radio. Has this changed?

GG: LOL. I guess I have proven myself wrong. YourTV Windsor/Leamington invited me to host, not just one, but two of their weekly shows, Windsor Creates and Meet the Music.

JM: Tell us about Meet the Music; it seems to be right in your wheelhouse.

GG: Joe, it is, and I am so honoured to be doing this, to showcase the awesome, diverse local music talent we have here in the Windsor Essex area. Guests perform on the program and join me in an in depth conversation about their musical journey. There’s not enough space here to highlight all the talent

we’ve had on our shows, but I invite you to go to: YourTV.tv/node/328811for shows already aired.

JM: How long have you been hosting this? GG: We have two seasons completed and are entering our third year.

JM: Gnyp, thank you for spending some time with me and letting the people know a bit more about you and your career. All of us at Biz X wish you the very best in your future endeavours.

Now, I’m going to conclude my chat by letting you read what the Producer of Meet the Music, Emily Moore, has to say about the Gnyp . . . “Working with Gnyp in the last year and a half at YourTV Windsor has been amazing. He always has an interesting story or fun fact to tell you. He loves to share his knowledge about his time in the industry with everyone, including our dedicated volunteers. In creating Meet the Music and Windsor Creates, with Gnyp, our YourTV Community has grown, and has allowed local artists and crafters to be seen. We look forward to collaborating with Gnyp for years to come.”

Learn more about the shows, Meet the Music and Windsor Creates, and upcoming schedules on: YourTV.tv/windsor-leamington.

Enjoy Theatre And Concert Level Performance In Your Own Home

By Dave Halliday Photos courtesy of Monitor Audio

Music, cinema and the arts have always been prevalent in our local communities.

Rock bands, rhythm and blues, pop, rap, classical, theatre productions and cinema have a long and rich history in our region. Live performances are always exciting and a pleasure to take in, yet when it comes to local talent we at Biz X know that taking them home with you can be just as exhilarating! And no, we are not talking about taking that amazing singer or performer physically home with you, unless the two of your really hit it off, LOL! But you can certainly take their recordings home and enjoy later!

Nothing helps maximize the home experience more than having the right equipment to play the media back on. However, it can be tricky choosing the right equipment for your home entertainment needs.

Fortunately, we were able to discuss some of the many options with a local expert in the field — Michael Keirl, Dealer Principal of Audio Two located at 4510 Rhodes Drive, Unit 330 in Windsor and online at: AudioTwo.com.

Keirl has more than 20 years of experience to draw upon and while Audio Two has been operating under the current ownership for the past two years, it has served local residents since 1987.

Please describe Audio Two’s services and products. “We guide and advise clients in their Home Audio and Home Theatre so they can experience a performance in their home,” explains Keirl. “This could be a very high end vinyl playback system or a streaming audio setup, in one room or the entire home, garage or outdoors. Some like to see their system and some just want it hidden away, we can accommodate both.”

Is there anything unique your company provides?

“Home audio consultation for new home construction or renovations,” Keirl adds “This is a key thing to consider as our homes are our entertainment centres. It is much easier to add wire upfront when walls are open.”

The audio needs for each person can vary greatly we would assume. How do you assist your clientele in determining what is right for them? “It is learning first before recommending anything as a duty of care . . . I want to get it right the first time,” he expresses. “I accomplish this by asking my customer questions such as: ‘What type of performance do they desire? Do they like the front row of a concert or being more in the middle of the theatre?’ Obviously these are very different experiences.”

There has been a resurgence of music collections on vinyl. Do you anticipate this trend to continue for vinyl enthusiasts?

“Based on what I have seen at local record shows, this is not slowing down,” reports Keirl, noting: “There is a natural sound to vinyl playback that the best digital can approach. Vinyl playback is a natural sound wave; digital playback is a square wave. The peaks that are missing in most digital systems can be re-created, but they are being re-created and approximated, although very well I must say. Great care is needed and I help clients select what is best for either type of system. I appreciate both, but I love a great vinyl setup.”

Theatre quality audio can add to a viewing experience. What can you provide to assist the client in achieving their best results? “A great home theatre really enhances a performance,” he states. “My daughter commented to me recently after watching a new Marvel film at a theatre: ‘It sounds better at home’. I noticed it too right away. Having five or more speakers in a 2.1 system (two nice speakers and one subwoofer) is excellent. I am seeing more clients looking for this. A sound bar is easy and will enhance dialogue, but misses the dimension and imaging stereo production provides.”

The kitchen is usually the place where everyone gathers to chat with family members, enjoy a meal together, host a party and even just spend some time baking on the weekends. Music transforms the space and instantly makes it more fun, relaxing or energetic . . . you get to decide. Press a button on a wall, use your own voice or use your phone. Shown is a modern kitchen with integrated sound and Crestron control system.

Gaming has become a global phenomenon. Do you offer audio components tailored towards gaming?

“Yes, most 2 channel stereo components have HDMI so you can be immersed in a game playback,” Keirl indicates. “This is an area I definitely would like to expand further. It is a natural fit.”

Audio systems for the enjoyment of music have always been at the forefront of this industry we presume. Can you describe any recent developments in home audio that you provide?

“I touched on the change I am seeing to a 2.1 system a little earlier,” he indicates and continues: “I believe clients are looking for a better solution to the sound bar. It works, but there are compromises in performance. The need for audio distribution for music can change the feeling in a room in an instant. Two to four speakers in the ceiling of a kitchen and a nearly invisible subwoofer hidden in the wall sound so wonderful.”

Should there be much planning when it comes to the set up and placement of audio systems?

“Depending on the desired performance for the room it makes a significant impact such as a balance of soft and hard surfaces,” Keirl says. “Fabric couches are great in a room with hardwood surfaces and area rugs are excellent as well. New room correction software (DIRAC) native to many components now will take care of the rest, generally speaking.”

Do you provide guidance on the care of audio systems? Service? Installations?

“Yes, conversation and planning are very important as this is where it all begins,” he answers. “Experience is not required for the client, I want them to be comfortable asking questions and there are no ‘wrong’ questions. People can research for weeks and weeks and gain clarity or become more confused. I’ve spent the time and the money researching so you can have the best for you and your family.”

What would you say are the benefits to enjoying the work of our local musicians in one’s home?

“Adding music into your house can change and improve the feeling in an instant, no question about it,” believes Keirl. He concludes by mentioning: “Relaxing music in a great room or kitchen is one of the best things one can do to improve their well-being and the people they are with.”

Well, we at Biz X have always supported local artists and musicians (just check out the front cover of this issue for proof!) so this writer is on his way home to unwind with a glass of his favourite beverage and an evening with the sounds of The Tea Party! Rock on Essex County!

The living room is the spot to really unwind or experience real entertainment. With the advent of streaming movies, there is no shortage of new or old films we can enjoy. Exceptional video and sound can make this something very special. The experience of being in a smaller space than an actual theatre has many advantages and it can often sound much better.

Feature Story By Jim Murphy

LET LOCAL MUSIC PROFESSIONALS AND YOUR CHILD

Learningmusic can offer numerous benefits to children, both academically and personally.

It enhances brain development and cognitive skills, such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. And it can help develop social skills when learning music in a group or ensemble, promoting teamwork, communication and leadership.

Music can also improve emotional well-being, providing a source of joy and self-expression, along with developing discipline, perseverance and confidence.

And there are many more benefits you will read about throughout this article!

Coinciding with the Biz X music edition, we feature four local businesses and one non-profit organization in the region that specialize in imparting these valuable lifelong skills to children and people of all ages.

B Natural Music School

Since 2016, B Natural Music School has offered private lessons in voice, guitar, piano, drums and ukulele, as well as classes and camps for kids ages three and up.

Their spring classes include ukulele (with an end of the session ukulele beach party) Disney singers, jam nights, music discovery for children under four, and a spring and winter concert.

They also offer dance classes for ages three and up and are bringing in rock band and theatre programs and camps for the summer.

“Music is the perfect outlet for a child to develop any kind of skill they desire, helping them make beautiful sounds and become beautiful humans,” says Kelly McBride, Owner of B Natural Music School. “We have seen children thrive in so many ways from increasing self-esteem and confidence, managing stress increasing

mood and overall happiness, to improving schoolwork, test scores and even improving their relationship with parents and siblings.”

Located at 1203 Faith Drive in Belle River, the studio is a newly renovated church rectory across from the old St. William Church that is now the Urban Field House Arts & Event Centre. The B Natural Music School has six classrooms and a large rehearsal space with instruments in every room.

“We like our studio to feel relaxed and welcoming, with a homelike vibe that encourages everyone to settle in and feel comfortable while jamming out,” McBride describes. “Our studio is surrounded by a path, trees and a river, with large grounds that allow for lots of outdoor classes and learning as well.”

Most of their eight teaching staff have degrees in music, as well as some with extra credentials in education and the arts.

“All our teachers have extensive experience working with children and adults

alike and have a background in music and performance,” she explains. “They are also multi-instrumentalists, which allows our students to learn music on different types of instruments and have an understanding of music in general.”

McBride also tells Biz X that music can be anything a child needs it to be.

“It can be a form of expression and a tool for creativity or a reason to learn self-discipline and improve muscle memory and dexterity,” she comments. “Reading music is like learning a new language! Learning note values and rhythm is like practicing math, while writing music gives children a better understanding of how words work and can even increase vocabulary.”

Students also have the opportunity to explore audio and sound recording, while others are improving their growth mindset by taking on new challenges week to week. Another important life skill students learn

From left: Ava, Maya, Sydney, Nolan, Miss Kelly (Kelly McBride), Paisley, Emilia, Ben, Ryan and Sawyer enjoy the B Natural Music School end of session, ukulele beach party, last year. All students, and even parents, are welcome to join in as they write songs, dress up, perform pieces and sing along together. Photo courtesy of Blush Photography.

THE PARENTING BIZ

is to thrive under pressure by preparing for auditions and examinations!

“At B Natural we are all about community,” McBride expresses. “Many of our clients have been with us from the beginning. We adapt lessons to each individual student’s needs and interests and work toward the different goals of every child; our students often collaborate with different teachers and students at our weekly jam nights and perform for small groups in our bonfire jam nights, ukulele beach parties, community events and bi-yearly concerts.”

If your child is interested in a high quality, fun and uplifting music education, refer to: BNaturalMusicSchool.com and find out how to become a part of their community!

Montessori Mozarts Inc. (Mozart Studios)

Founded in 1993, Montessori Mozarts — located at 13831 Riverside Drive East, Unit #1 in Tecumseh and 2611 Labelle Street in Windsor (inside Montessori by Bright Path Windsor) — offers piano, violin, guitar, ukulele, vocal, composition, keyboarding, drumming, band instruments, drama, art, performance and glee club to students ages three and up.

“Our mission statement is to instill a lifelong passion for music,” states Maureen Harris, Founder and CVO (Chief Visionary Officer) of Montessori Mozarts. “We believe that musical journeys can start at any age, and our focus is to approach music education in a way that will keep our students inspired for the long term.”

What makes Montessori Mozarts unique is its progressive approach to learning the arts. Their teaching staff of 10 cater their programs to the unique needs of each student and ensure multiple performance opportunities to develop confidence and mastery of their talent.

Maureen’s daughter, Leah Harris was a past Montessori Mozarts student and is a good example of how the right approach to music learning can lead to a life-long passion.

Leah is now living in New York City and performing regularly as a pianist and vocalist. She also helps her mother run the business, starting out as a teacher and then becoming the Business Development Manager. Whereas Leah is more contemporary, her mother comes from more of a classical musical background, so together they challenge each other and inspire all kinds of learners.

Their Montessori schools in both Tecumseh (Lakeview Montessori, 13797 Riverside Drive East which also has a music room) and South Windsor, welcome new students from all walks of life, including anyone who

wants to have a good time making music.

“Our monthly master classes provide a fun afternoon performing with fellow musicians in a collaborative environment,” Harris says. “Our teacher mentorship program is also exceptional as we guide and nurture young entrepreneurs on how to teach, run a business and consult professionally with parents and fellow business partners.”

The Montessori Mozarts program was designed specifically for younger children and is based on group music and movement classes. Their studios are warm and welcoming with a chill vibe.

“Not everyone is familiar with the Montessori pedagogy, but we believe its ideals are a great foundation to build upon for broader programs,” Harris indicates. “One thing people may not know about our Montessori Mozarts program is that it can even be taught at home by parents. For parents or teachers interested in exploring the program outside the Montessori classroom, we offer a training course.”

Many parents in the post-pandemic world are seeking a more relaxed learning experience for themselves and their children. Often parents take music lessons along with their child and have fun at home making music together.

According to Harris: “One of our biggest realizations during the pandemic is that there is a deep need for music, for all kinds of students, not only Montessori ones. We believe that our values and mission statement can benefit a broader audience, as we saw greater demand for this over recent years. As a business, we have already expanded beyond our Montessori Mozarts program (a research-based group music and movement program for children) into lessons for learners of all ages, and we will soon be releasing more targeted learning journeys for these different audiences beyond Montessori.”

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023, Montessori Mozarts, aims to make music learning for kids fun and nurturing, plus also drum up a lot of excitement. Shown is Owner and Chief Visionary Officer, Maureen Harris.

Photo by Rod Denis.

Montessori Mozarts is a second generation music studio that is rebranding to Mozart Studios this summer in order to address the needs of a post-pandemic culture and attract adult students.

“We are innovative, progressive and nimble with the ability to offer our families precisely what they desire — to develop a lifelong passion for the arts,” she says. “From the smallest to the more mature student, from private to group classes, we can tailor our programs to suit each individual need.”

For further details on their music lessons, teacher training and their history, go online to: MontessoriMozarts.com.

Mayville’s Piano Studio

For more than 35 years, Mayville’s Piano Studio has offered piano and keyboard lessons for students aged six to 80.

This includes traditional piano classes, as well as a more casual (just for fun approach), along with Royal Conservatory of Toronto exam preparation, sight reading/ear training technique, University piano proficiency preparation, theory, chording and rhythm classes (beneficial to instrumentalists, singers and musicians).

“I studied at the University of Windsor towards a Piano Performance degree and my final performance concert was held in 1996,” recounts Lou-Anne Mayville, Founder and Instructor at Mayville’s Piano Studio. “I have a great deal of piano performance experience with church accompaniment and choir direction, as well I have also accompanied public school and community choirs for many years. I can offer each of my students a vast range of practical playing techniques, solutions and performance insights.”

While her home studio, located at 42 Townsview Court in Essex, offers personal experience and interaction, Mayville has experienced success with both in-person and online classes, or a mixture of both.

“At the beginning of 2020, I expanded my in-person lessons to online and I have been very proud of the success that we have had with both children and adults, but especially adults,” Mayville explains. “Adults can now have piano/keyboard lessons that they may not have had the opportunity to have when younger, or were possibly interrupted for one reason or another. With the addition of online lessons, we can have classes around the country and even internationally; I have students who have had lessons on their vacations in Florida and at their cottages up north. It also helps with busy adults that don’t have time to travel to attend a lesson each week.”

While children typically begin lessons at Mayville’s Piano Studio at six years old, some students start as young as four.

“I always recommend that the parent assess the student’s maturity to determine what is the best age for their child to begin,” she says. “It is important to know that although starting lessons early is great, students can have great success beginning when they are six to nine, in their teens, as adults and even seniors.”

Mayville informs us that her eldest senior student is an 80 year old man who started when he was 78.

“I always love to mention him as I believe he is an inspiration to others,” she points out. “He proves that it is never too late to try something new, stretch your abilities, find a new hobby or learn an instrument that you did not have a chance to learn prior.”

Mayville credits her genuine joy and passion for music and teaching as the reason for her continued success and longevity.

“Fortunately, students catch a spark from fun musical experiences, personal achievements and positive reinforcement,” she says. “When having fun, students are naturally driven to advanced personal growth.”

For more information visit the website: MayvillesPianoStudio.com.

South Windsor School Of Music

Located at 2965 Dominion Blvd., South Windsor School of Music offers classes in drums and percussion, classical, acoustical and electric guitar, electric bass, singing and voice, piano and keyboard, violin, saxophone and even the Arabic oud (lute).

“I personally teach music for Little Mozarts group classes for kindergarten kids and private lessons in voice, piano, ukulele and violin,” mentions Michelle Soullière, School Director of South Windsor School of Music since July 2020. “I take on many roles in my job including teacher, marketer, curator, creative designer, salesperson and mentor. I think mostly I act as a connector and what I hope to do is inspire those around me to hone a skill, be creative and express themselves.”

Their 10 teachers offer classes in English, French, Arabic, Spanish, Thai and Punjabi and they range across all genders and ages.

“There is a teacher for everyone at my school, which is why I recommend new

Lou-Anne Mayville, Founder and Instructor at Mayville’s Piano Studio, believes it’s never too late to start taking piano lessons. Photo courtesy of Alyssa Fleming.

THE PARENTING BIZ

students book a lesson consultation with me,” says Soullière. “That way we can best tailor your learning experience to your individuality before you get going with your lessons.”

She believes that all subjects can be taught through the arts, including math, history, reading and physical education.

“Learning to play an instrument helps children become well-rounded individuals across all other subjects,” Soullière remarks. “Kids respond to learning through doing things that they enjoy and love.”

Soullière goes on to explain that very young children excel in music if they are given a comfortable and supportive environment to practice skills and explore with a teacher they truly love and enjoy learning from.

“It’s so rewarding for me to see my students make discoveries and find success and confidence in their abilities during their music lessons, and those experiences extend beyond the studio and into their lives,” she explains. “From speaking to local families and teachers, I know that kids don’t get enough arts education in elementary or high school these days. So investing in your kids by giving them the experience of music lessons is something that really does last a lifetime.”

Their studio is a little bit like walking into someone’s home. It’s clean, welcoming and inclusive. It’s a versatile space for learning and self-expression, so at times it can get messy as it’s a space for creativity.

“I feel so lucky and blessed to be able to do what I love everyday and I think that shows through my work and extends out to the general vibe of the studio space itself.” Soullière says. “This school has already given me so many beautiful relationships with musicians, students, teachers and families in my community.”

South Windsor School of Music has two upcoming summer camps: “I’m With The Band” for ages nine to 11 and “Music For Little Mozarts Camp” for ages four to six. Aside from classes and lessons, they

also have a retail store with music books, instrument supplies and beginner instruments. Instrument rentals and repair services are offered on site as well.

Look for their upcoming rebrand this summer, as well as an expansion of their retail store and group studio offerings in 2024.

Until then, learn about their music lessons and find items you can purchase online at: SouthWindsorSchoolOfMusic.com.

Windsor-Essex Youth Choir

Since 2005, the Windsor-Essex Youth Choir has held rehearsals on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 p.m. (September to May) in the hopes of fostering a love of choral singing while developing music literacy, ear training and vocal technique.

“We currently rehearse at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 1921 Cabana Road West in South Windsor, in a large open area,” points out Nicholas Morvay, Music Director of the Windsor-Essex Youth Choir, a charitable non-profit organization. “Each child will have a folder with all the music we will be rehearsing for upcoming concerts or public appearances.”

Morvay holds a master’s degree in music composition and a bachelor of education with

At the South Windsor School of Music. they strive to help each one of their students feel good about themselves, as well as excited to grow as a person and musician. The quartet photographed here consists of nine year old Rya Olsen, a private music student; Nivin Ghobrayal, Piano Teacher; Michelle Soullière, School Director; and five year old Evalina Olsen, private music student. Photo

more than 20 years experience leading and accompanying church choirs, music theatre ensembles and school choirs and bands.

“I’ve sung in professional choirs in Detroit and Windsor,” he says. “Currently, I’m the Music Director/Organist at Emmanuel United Church as well as the Music Director and Accompanist for Windsor Light Music Theatre.”

As more schools cut music programs, there are fewer opportunities for children to sing in a choral setting.

Windsor-Essex Youth Choir hopes to fill the gap and provide opportunities for choristers to collaborate and experience music in this setting.

“Many of our singers study music privately, on the piano for instance,” Morvay notes. “There seems to be little space for young pianists in any type of ensemble. Singing in a choir is often the best and easiest way for children to experience music making in an ensemble.”

He points out to Biz X that there are countless studies detailing the overwhelming beneficial act of performing music.

“In addition to making friends and having fun, singers can expect positive side effects physically, emotionally, behaviourally and socially,” Morvay states. “Singing can boost confidence and self-esteem, relieve stress, tension and depression, strengthen the

by Rod Denis.

immune system and improve breathing. Children, now more than ever, benefit from an activity that involves the whole body and mind — a break from screens and from negative thoughts. Singing in a group increases these benefits.”

Morvay goes on to explain that singing is also an inherently intimate activity which, when shared with others, creates a strong sense of community and inclusion.

“Children who sing in choirs will feel better about themselves, have more pride in themselves, and learn to deal with their emotions in a new way,” he says. “Learning a new skill in cooperation with others can be life-changing!”

The Windsor-Essex Youth Choir recently performed at the Windsor Choral Festival along with 250 other choristers, including the Canadian Chamber Choir,

January 10 to 14, 2023. They also performed with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra on April 1 for the Family Concert: Tour Mexico with Francisco.

They are always looking for new Allegro members (ages seven to 13) and hope to increase to two or three choirs in the upcoming year to provide ensembles for individuals up to 19 years of age.

To register your child, or listen to a sample of songs by the choir, check out: Windsor-EssexYouthChoir.com.

The Power Of Music

To quote Aristotle: “Music has a power of forming the character, and should therefore be introduced into the education of the young.”

So, follow his advice and ours too, as the takeaway from reading this story!

Music is everywhere in life from home to school to businesses and organizations you encounter on a daily basis, so embrace it with open arms and keep your ears open!

Learning an instrument is not only fun, but the emotional, personal, social and psychological advantages of musical education can benefit your children for the rest of their lives.

Members of the Windsor-Essex Youth Choir from left: Jazlyn Watkins, Jingzi Zhu, Demi Vega, Bennett Coulter, Owen Ufford, Molly Morvay, Sarah Graw, Grace Li and Morleigh Ufford, pose for a photo after a performance for the Windsor Choral Festival at the Capitol Theatre. Photo courtesy of Nick Morvay.

T2B Volleyball Tourney Serves Up A Win For Adult Music And Medicine Program

Last year on August 13 at On The Beach Volleyball in Tecumseh, six young philanthropists knocked it out of the park, blowing past their $8,000 fundraising goal for Transition to Betterness (T2B) to HIT an astounding $21,500!

The 2022 Sand Slam Committee, chaired by Bianca Lapico, Kristina Marrocco, Natalee Laus, Mia Petretta, Alexa Polsinelli and Vienna Petretta, hosted an absolutely incredible day of fun-filled fundraising with 12 teams taking to the sandy courts to compete for the title of T2B’s 2022 Sand Slam Champion.

“We are so grateful for these emerging philanthropists in our community,” states Amber Hunter, T2B Executive Director. “Because of these incredible efforts, we are proud to announce the T2B Sand Slam Committee is now the 2023 Sponsors of the Adult Music and Medicine program at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare.”

Realizing that music is soothing and nurturing, T2B has provided funding to the Music and Medicine program since 2003.

A certified music therapist visits individual patients once per week (Tuesday afternoon) in the Palliative Care Unit at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare’s Tayfour Campus, in the T2B Palliative Care Unit, Stephanie and Barry Zekelman Wing. The program focuses on reducing pain perception and anxiety, as well as enhancing mood and providing alternate avenues for emotional expression.

Certified Music Therapist Candace Rahn of Candace Rahn Music Psychotherapy Services (WholeBodyTherapies.ca)

in Chatham-Kent just loves to see the faces of the patients light up!

“The beauty of what I do is that I can offer a style or genre of music at the appropriate volume level and the speed that someone needs,” she states. “Patients want to feel energized so they can have a good visit with their family. People often say to me this was the most precious last moment they will have with their loved one.”

To learn more about T2B, its ongoing programs or how to host your own fundraiser, please visit: T2B.ca.

At the cheque presentation in August of last year at On The Beach Volleyball (EC Row at East Pike Creek Road), the girls on the 2022 Sand Slam Committee, from left, are: Bianca Lapico, Kristina Marrocco, Natalee Laus, Mia Petretta, Alexa Polsinelli and Vienna Petretta. Photo courtesy of Zishan Ali.

W.E. Care For Kids Under The Big Top Kids Gala

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT

February 10, 2023 at the Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue, Windsor. Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left unless indicated.

1. Come one, come all to the greatest show on earth! Returning since 2020 due to pandemic restrictions, the circus finally rolled back into town when the Windsor Essex Care for Kids Foundation (W.E. Care for Kids) held its sixth bi-annual Under the Big Top Kids Gala. Door greeters from the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA), welcoming guests included: Sophia Shepley (little girl); Becky Mills, WETRA Executive Director; Bentley the golden retriever; Briar the miniature horse; Catherine Gravelle, Program Volunteer; Smarty the pony and Paige Shepley, Program Director.

2. This one of a kind fun filled gala has become a signature event for W.E. Care for Kids and not only provides families with an incredible night out, but also raises funds and awareness for the cause. Over $92,000 was raised this time around! Ashley Weeres, W.E. Care for Kids Operations Manager, takes time out from a job well done to spend a little family time with her husband Steven Wilder and their daughter Charlotte. Wilder is a Personal Injury Lawyer at Diamond & Diamond and was also an acrobat sponsor of the gala.

The Windsor Essex (W.E.) Care for Kids Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of children in Windsor and Essex County through fundraising initiatives. Since 1997, as a non-profit organization, W.E. Care for Kids has raised more than $10.5 million in support of equipment for paediatric programs and services at Windsor Regional Hospital Campuses, Erie Shores HealthCare, John McGivney Children’s Centre, and the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association, as well as the W.E. Care for Kids House. For more details visit: WEcareforkids.org.

3. The event hosted over 450 guests and exhibited many incredible acrobatic and circus acts from the region like the Detroit Flyhouse Circus School, owned by Micha Adams (who we caught just hanging around, LOL!). Her company provided aerialists, jugglers, plate spinners and a strong man.

4. Anthony Maggio, Owner of TriWorld Development/Mid-South Land Developments Corporation, was a Ring Master Sponsor and his wife Angela was the Event Chair for Under the Big Top Kids Gala.

5. The Border City Barkers Agility Club is a group of dog enthusiasts who promote education and safety in the sport of agility. The club was part of the evening’s entertainment line-up and a few of its members are

photographed with their pets. (Front row kneeling): Marion Quinn with Mary; Nicole Biloski with Dory and Annabelle; Richard Fraser with Roxie and Sophie; Elisabeth Van Alphen with Minti; Nicole and Dave Gillis with Seamus and Monte; and Marielle Chauvin with Milo. (Standing): Cassie Thwaites with Raizen & Kip; Sue Nobbs with Aggie; Jo-Anne Kallis with Robbie; Barb Peacock with Gracie; Dave Ashman; Monica

Poisson with Coraline; Lynn Geminelli with Macy; and Nicole and Roland St. Pierre with Maya.

6. Other sponsors of the gala included Quinn Roofing Solutions, represented by Ken and Sue Quinn, and from Martindale Windows & Doors we have Tiffany and Scott Martindale with their children Rose and Grace. Both companies were both event sponsors.

The International Women’s Day Fashion Show

HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT SHOTS HOT

March 3, 2023 at the St. Nicholas Macedonian Banquet Centre, 5225 Howard Avenue, LaSalle, ON Photos by Rod Denis. All people in photos listed from the left unless indicated.

1. After several years of being unable to organize this event, due to pandemic restrictions, in early March 270 guests were finally able to come together for the ninth annual St. Nicholas Macedonian Banquet Centre Fashion Show. Committee members — Vera Najdovska, Dr. Elizabeth Taleski, Cathy Marentette, Teodora Taleski and Liljana Djurovic — organize this annual event to give back to the community, empower women (especially young women), and honour International Women’s Day. (Missing from photo: Maria Stefanov)

2. Guests included sponsors such as Key Solutions Realty LTD. Brokerage represented by Tanner Grass and Roberto Pao (Broker Vicki Vasoski was unable to attend the event) They were able to enjoy musical performances by Teodora Taleski, DVO (Amir Haghparast) and Adam Butcher who charmed the crowd with their angelic voices. Music throughout the evening was played by Gordon Damevski.

3. Meet the hard working kitchen staff at the St. Nicholas Macedonian Banquet Centre: Iljo Vartukopli, Vaska Markovska, Angelina Ristovska and Boris Naumovski.

4. Event emcee Cathy Marantette poses with her son, Stefan Baraslievski and daughter, Kajli Marentette.

5. Sponsor Z’s Auto Centre, 11293 Tecumseh Road East, owned by Jackie and Zoran Filipovski, were snapped with Dr. Elizabeth Taleski of the event committee and Forest Glade Dental Centre, 9881 Tecumseh Road East.

6. Area shops participating in the show included Envy Boutique, Joe Fresh, Hudson’s Bay, Freeds and Sophie’s Gown Shoppe.

Of course, formal wear was also a big part of the evening with Natalija Crvenkovski modelling a gown from His & Hers Bridal (828 Ottawa Street) and Jackson Baron decked out to the nines, courtesy of The Suit Shop Co. (593 Erie Street East).

7. The entire fashion show was choreographed by Liljana Djurovic and the final scene featured spring bridal wear by Sophie’s Gown Shoppe, 1476 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor, as modelled by Frosina Filipovska and little Ava Revenberg.

Serving the community for over 45 years, the St. Nicholas Macedonian Church and Banquet Centre is currently booking weddings, showers, corporate business meetings, fundraising galas and parties. It is located at 5225 Howard Avenue, LaSalle and online at: StNicholasMacedonianCentre.ca.

8. Part of the proceeds from the event were donated to the WE-SPARK Health Institute at the University of Windsor — $5,000 to be exact! Therefore, it was appropriate that the special guest speaker of the evening was Dr. Lisa Porter, WE-SPARK Health Institute Executive Director (WEsparkhealth.com) and a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Windsor. She is shown with Dr. Elizabeth Taleski.

The Cornerstone Of Faith Built A Community, Every Brick Tells A Story

By Andrea Grimes

History has shown that change has become constant, and how society embraces it defines the future.

As such, there were many times when those hardest decisions and those “right” decisions were one in the same!

For years, ruthless plantation gentry throughout the southern United States held many people of African descent in bondage as “commodities,” stripping them of their identity and denying them the practice of their faith.

Lecturer, abolitionist and newspaperman Henry Bibb, wrote an article entitled “Self Emancipation,” which appeared in the November 4, 1852 edition of the Voice of the Fugitive (first published in Sandwich and Windsor, Ontario in 1851).

Bibb stated: “During the last 48 hours, there have been 23 arrivals here from American slavery. They consist of men, women and children, God speed them on their flight. Let it be remembered that Canada comprises an area of about 346,862 square miles, a territory nearly six times the size of England and Wales — hence affording an abundance of scope for a mighty nation; and that John Bull (the English “Uncle Sam”) is standing on our shore, with arms extended wide, to give the refuges a home across the swelling tide.”

Driven by faith and perseverance, many refugee settlers built their homes and set about practicing their faith — as churches

were the centre of stability for refugee families.

“With a Crown grant for a one acre property, a church was built on Lot 22 on Peter Street, where families embraced the privilege to serve God and to celebrate their freedom as a Baptist congregation through the spoken word of our first minister, Reverend Madison James Lightfoot,” says Lana E. Talbot, Heritage Coordinator of the Sandwich First Baptist Church. “Every brick of our church tells a story.”

A plaque erected by the Ontario Heritage Foundation in 1995 reads: “Eleven freedomseekers from the American South formed the congregation of the Sandwich First Baptist Church about 1840, calling themselves the Close Communion of Baptists

It was one of three founding churches of the Amherstburg Baptist Association (1841), a cross border organization of Black Baptists that is still active to-day. Until 1847 when they built a small log cabin, members worshiped in their homes and outdoors.

To build the church, they hewed lumber by hand and moulded bricks of the Detroit river clay. The church was dedicated August 1, 1851, the 18th anniversary of the passage of the Emancipation Act, which ended slavery throughout the British Empire.”

Understandably, many refugees seeking their freedom in Canada endured many hardships and wanted to turn back.

However, through the depth of their

religious convictions, many realized that a better life was indeed within their reach.

“The heritage songs that our youth choir sing during our services, tell ‘our’ story,” adds Talbot.

Preserving our heritage and fostering a more inclusive society, with the adaption of a wider perspective of how cultural diversity enriches society and strengthens our national identity, defines who we are as Canadians on the world stage.

As a civilian Veterans Advocate, Andrea Grimes was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Governor General’s Medal, for her volunteer service to Veterans and a number of non-profit organizations supporting Windsor’s military families’ network.

The etching (dated 1997) of Sandwich First Baptist Church (located at 3652 Peter Street, Sandwich, Ontario) by Sandwich, Ontario artist, the late Helen Turner Brown, is courtesy of the Sandwich First Baptist Church.

Vintage & Vinyl: A Proven Track Record For 13 Years

Story And Photo By Julianna Bonnett

Since 2010, Scott Woodall, music lover, and the store owner of Vintage & Vinyl (891 Front Road in LaSalle), has been actively working hard to make his customers happy and keep them coming back to see what’s new (and old)!

His love for music was passed down through a hobby his father had.

“My dad collected various things when I was young and sort of passed along the ‘collector gene’,” shares Woodall. “My love of music pulled me towards records/vinyl as the ‘Vinyl Comeback’ was just getting underway. But, when I first opened, records had not grown to their current popularity, so I was doing some furniture and other things I thought were interesting. The store name Vintage & Vinyl I do feel sums things up well.”

Like most small business owners, Woodall wears a lot of hats.

From overseeing pretty much anything and everything that goes on in the business, he also has four casual part-time helpers, including his dad (now retired) who drops in from time to time during the week and on Saturdays.

“The meat of our store is used records — vinyl and gear to play them — and also turntables and record players, make up half our business,” Woodall indicates. “I also have a very good technician/friend, Jay Butler, who is amazing at repairing tables and we sell replacement belts, needles, and cleaners. We also sell used CDs and tapes and anything vintage media.”

He adds: “As well, if we don’t have something — unless it’s super duper rare — we can usually find a record someone wants, fairly quickly with the network of vinyl lovers I’ve come to know over the past 13 years.”

As a self-proclaimed music enthusiast, Woodall listens to almost every genre and sub-genre of music under the sun.

His favourite genres include Rockabilly and early pioneers of Moog Synthesizer Electronica such as Mort Garson, Jean-Michel Jarre, Giorgio Moroder and Klaus Shultze.

“On any given day I can go from Metallica to Frank Zappa to New Order to Francoise Hardy, just depends on my mood and what I have in stock I guess,” he comments. “My teen years fell smack dab in the epitome of ‘80’s music, so Much Music — and any other music video program — I watched with eyes and ears glued to the TV. A lot of that music still resonates with my customers, and now their kids too are digging some of it.”

Born in Windsor, Woodall graduated from St. Clair College’s Advertising Program in 1991 and held various jobs in different industries. Ironically, he was let go from Stitches clothing store when he was 19 for being too shy to be a salesperson (his job in a way now!) After that he worked for Radio

Shack for eight years in his twenties and then spent eight years at Tregaskiss Ltd. in Oldcastle, prior to venturing out on his own.

Throughout his past employment he had always wanted to own a retail shop and finally the dream became a reality with the opening of Vintage & Vinyl.

“I take a lot of pride in what I do and how my store looks each day,” Woodall expresses. “People are really busy and the last thing I’d want to do is waste someone’s time bringing them out to a shop that I didn’t believe was an enjoyable place to spend some time and one’s hard earned shillings.”

Woodall has two daughters, one living in Nova Scotia and the other (Skye) in Amherstburg who is married to Dylan Woodall who runs the Vintage & Vinyl location in Amherstburg at 60 Murray Street.

If you are on the lookout for a treasure trove of vintage collectibles and media, we suggest you start your search at Vintage & Vinyl (open Wednesday to Sunday).

To learn more about this company and view items for sale, visit their social media page: Facebook.com/VintageAndVinyl.

Owner Scott Woodall of Vintage & Vinyl is shown holding up The Crazy World of Arthur Brown album, inside his LaSalle shop which is filled with CDs, records, tapes and collectibles for sale.