The Drive Magazine // Summer 2021 // Issue #136 by The Drive Magazine

DRIVE

ISSUE 136

IF THESE WALLS HAD EARS, YOU’D HEAR

“SOLD!” SHAN HASAN

LIFESTYLE | CULTURE | PEOPLE | TRENDS

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DRIVE

PAUL ST-PIERRE.................. Publisher DAVE HUNTER..................... Vice President, sales BREANNE MCGINTY............ Sales STACEY MCDONALD............ Sales SABINE MAIN...................... Creative director SHAWNA BEECROFT............ Graphic designer MARNIE ROBILLARD............ Director of design

CONTRIBUTORS ANNA STANLEY ................... Copy editor SYX LANGEMANN................ Photographer TREVOR BOOTH................... Photographer MONA ELKADRI................... Stylist/writer

The heart of your home.

ALLEY L. BINIARZ................ Writer JEN BRIGNALL-STRONG....... Writer DEVAN MIGHTON................. Writer GIULIANA MUSSO ............... Writer (student contest) MATTHEW ST. AMAND......... Writer

DRIVE

ISSUE 136

On the cover:

IF THESE WALLS HAD EARS, YOU’D HEAR

Shan Hasan of Re/MAX Capital Diamond Realty. Photo by Trevor Booth

“SOLD!” SHAN HASAN

LIFESTYLE | CULTURE | PEOPLE | TRENDS

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 136

AROUND TOWN 10 Noteworthy Mentions Around Town

PORTRAIT Shan Hasan: Making Big Things Happen – Through his life, the many paths Shan journeyed led right where he wanted to be.

SPOTLIGHT 14 R oman De Angelis – Triumph at the Detroit Grand Prix COMMUNITY 34 J ulien's House – Grieving Families Find Support and Friendship Through TRAVEL 42 S ummer Staycation in Essex County CHANGING THE CULTURE 52 W .E. Made It in Windsor & Essex County MUSIC 60 W alter Riggi Discusses His Prolific Career in Music And Film FOOD 64 C hef Benjamin LeBlanc-Beaudoin Baking Up Success Amid Pandemic

14 SPOTLIGHT Roman De Angelis – Triumph at the Detroit Grand Prix.

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HEALTH 68 S ports Vision Windsor Uses Visual Training Techniques to Help Athletes Move Smarter, Not Harder EDUCATION 72 Libro Financial Contest – Giuliana Musso

A NOTE FROM THE VP OF ADVERTISING Twenty years ago, I arrived on set to direct Paul St Pierre's cover photoshoot. What started as a static and uneventful scene with Paul in a suit and tie quickly changed to one of my favourite shoots of all time. From suit to grubs in a wheel barrel, Paul's ability to pivot on set allowed us to capture an entrepreneur and leader in his element. His energy and playful spirit were infectious - his photo speaks a thousand words. When Paul approached me to rebrand THE DRIVE in 2018, that image came racing back and there was no doubt in my mind that he would shift and refresh the direction of the magazine. The art of living is really done through making good choices, and Paul made one of the best by supporting and celebrating our vibrant, bustling, and secure region of Windsor & Essex County, a place we love, a place we call home. In this issue you will discover moments from the past and catch a glimpse of the future. You will read extraordinary stories about ordinary people and witness remarkable achievements in the face of impossible odds. You will revel in our cultural diversity and experience the innovation and imagination of the individuals who aspire to greatness. It is THE DRIVE style, photography, and team that sets it apart from other publications. THE DRIVE has the profound ability to capture the attention and interest of readers. Our format makes us immediately recognizable in a crowded sea of brash media and visual noise. THE DRIVE gives an intimate and compelling look at what this community is all about. Our readers bear witness to the accomplishments of people in a way that only a premier magazine can deliver. There’s life and then there’s living in THE DRIVE. Thank you for believing in this publication, Paul. It has been and is going to continue to be an amazing ride. Yours truly, David Hunter V.P. of Advertising & Marketing 8

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AROUND TOWN

TOWN Welcome to our custom content page meant to highlight unique news from the Windsor-Essex region BRADY THRASHER Congratulations to Brady Thrasher who recently celebrated a pair of milestones in the industry, 10 years in the real estate business with RE/ MAX and three years in an ownership role at RE/MAX Preferred in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “I'm so thankful for all the amazing people I have encountered so far on this journey. I'm lucky to have such a great support base, administrative support, team members, clients, agents, business associates who all play an important role in our operations on both sides of the border,” says Thrasher.Real estate today is very exciting. Many changes are taking place, especially with respect to technology. Thrasher and his team are constantly looking for new ways to improve the way they conduct business. At the same time, they are determined to continue offering good old-fashioned customer service. You can count on them to give you the attention you deserve, whether you are buying or selling. The real estate industry today is constantly evolving, and you need a professional who understands this diversity and is positioned to stay ahead of the game. To contact Brady, please contact directly at 519-819-5965 or visit www.bradythrasher.com.

PETER DOBRICH Shark Tank collaboration with Kevin Harrington featuring Windsor’s Peter Dobrich. “The last thing the world needs is another book on financial planning,” Peter Dobrich says. But to have a chance to co-author with one of the original Shark Tank founders Kevin Harrington made total sense. The book includes insights from some of the top advisors in North America. Peter feels very fortunate to be part of this as it reached # 1 selling status in the first 24 hrs. Peter’s chapter is a deep message from his many years of advising entrepreneurs and their families. Their issues are not unique but most of the time they are not addressed soon enough. Stay tuned. Build Wealth like a Shark can be purchased online at www.amazon.ca

TransforME TransforME is Lakeshore’s newest paddle board and kayak rental destination. TransforME was established in 2021 by Lori Williamson who is a yoga instructor and has a passion for the water. Lori moved to Puce from the GTA because she loves the area, and the people are so welcoming. Lori is a retired nurse, and a mental health advocate that specializes in grief and trauma recovery. Come out for a day of yoga, meditation, paddle boarding and paddle yoga to transform your mind, body and soul. Grab your friends and family and enjoy Lake St. Clair or a beautiful sunset on a paddle board or Kayak. They are located at 168 Mill Street (on the Puce River) and can be reached by calling 519-209-3525 today. 10

AROUND TOWN

KONA SUSHI This year it’s not just Kona Sushi’s delicious food in the mouths of patrons, but also the buzz around the restaurant chain’s tremendous growth despite such a challenging business climate. Never breaking stride since the first mention of a lockdown back in March 2020, Kona has continued to practice safe, innovative business strategies to maintain its reputation as both a reliable supplier of thoughtfully prepared food for the community, and gainful employment for its ever-growing family of employees. So, what does Kona Sushi have in store for the future? The owners recently announced their third location in Lakeshore boasting a spacious patio, large in-house dining area & bar, as well as a mezzanine perfectly suited for private events. The excitement for the prosperous Essex County staple doesn’t stop there: they are thrilled to announce a 4th restaurant located in the town of Tecumseh. New and exciting features to look forward to include sprawling murals painted by local artist David Derkatz, an enticing ambient indoor atmosphere, and Kona’s first rooftop patio. They can’t wait to serve you!

TWENTY TWO COFFEE HOUSE

Twenty Two Coffee House is new to town with a little something for everyone. Featuring fresh baked goods, unbelievable soups and delicious sandwiches, soft serve ice cream, and of course many amazing coffee options. They also showcase local talent through artwork, soaps and lotions, woodwork, and variety of retail goods. Check them out at 962 Old Tecumseh Road in Lakeshore and meet the owners Jordyn and Derrik who are grateful for all the support thus far and can’t wait to meet you. Follow them @twentytwocoffeehouse.

RTP CONSTRUCTION

For company owner Rob Polewski, construction isn’t just a job it’s a passion. After graduating with a degree in architecture from Ryerson University, Rob spent more than a decade working as a project manager in the commercial construction industry gaining experience on a wide range of challenging projects before deciding to branch off on his own. RTP Construction was founded two years ago, with the goal of providing customers with top notch general contracting and project management services through attention to detail, efficiency and a thorough understanding of the construction process. RTP Construction now focuses on small to mid-size commercial construction projects and can take on everything from challenging renovations to new build, turnkey projects. As company owner, Rob often works directly with clients through the entire construction process and will remain involved in every aspect of the project to ensure no detail is overlooked and work is completed as efficiently as possible. At the end of the day, there is no greater reward than turning over a great product and seeing a satisfied client, and that is what RTP strives for on every project. For more information or to get in contact with RTP Construction please email rob@rtpconstructioninc.com THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

AROUND TOWN

SLINKY’S ICE CREAM Slinky’s Ice Cream, a beloved Tecumseh family landmark since its’ opening in 1983, has opened the 2021 season as the “go-to destination” for ice cream and other frozen treats. Since taking over ownership in late 2020, new owners Deb Scarlett and Kim Dolfi, worked through the offseason to transform the location at 100 Lesperance Road into a re-imagined space that combines West Coast cool with a throwback, retro old school vibe. All of the Slinky’s favorites remain in place. 32 selections of hard ice cream, soft serve vanilla and chocolate ice cream and the best frozen yogurt treats in Essex County. A new highlight in the store this season is a new soft serve machine that is dedicated exclusively to Dole products which are non-dairy, gluten free and certified vegan friendly. As Scarlett and Dolfi said, “Slinky’s Ice Cream is an iconic family destination. We are honored to be a part of this legacy and are excited to write the story for the next chapter of Slinky’s, which will be known as THE Windsor / Essex County frozen treat destination for all of our local residents and out of town visitors!”

TOHOMA Making your home more energy efficient saves you money and it has never been easier. Federally Licensed Energy Advisor Taylor McKay, owner of Tohoma, a local energy efficiency and home upgrades company, has spent years helping homeowners remove the stress from the process of upgrading their home. Taylor and his team are passionate about helping homeowners lower their bills, put money back in their pocket and fight climate change, one house at a time. Tohoma handles everything from start to finish; they execute the energy audit, file all the necessary paperwork and install the required upgrades so homeowners receive their energy rebate. Once your energy audit is complete, Tohoma offers multiple home upgrade services like insulation and new windows, or equipment like high efficiency heating or cooling products and much more. With the launch of the new federal Greener Homes Grant, homeowners can receive up to $5000 in grants to make energy efficient retrofits and receive up to $600 to help with the cost of the home energy audit. Protecting the environment and our families’ futures starts with your home! To contact the Tohoma team and learn how easy it is to upgrade your home, please visit tohoma.ca or call 519-551-8226 today.

POSTECH SCREW PILES WINDSOR Postech Screw Piles Windsor has been offering quality residential and commercial helical pile installations, engineering & foundation design, and unparalleled service since 2014. Carmine Aquino, owner of Postech Screw Piles Windsor believes in offering the best guarantee and customer experience ever seen in the local piling industry. Regularly upgrading installation equipment to industry standards and always looking to offer the most cost-efficient solutions to their clients. With thousands of helical piles installed, Postech Windsor's vast experience with local geotechnical soil conditions is a great asset to many contractors and building projects. Postech Screw Piles offers building code approved installations and excavation with several size mini-excavators. Choose Postech Screw Piles for your next residential or commercial foundation design. You can reach Carmine from Postech Windsor at 519-551-5581 or windsor@postechpiles.com 12

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SPOTLIGHT

Like a bat out of hell Roman De Angelis finds triumph at the Detroit Grand Prix By Devan Mighton Photography by Trevor Booth and Roman De Angelis

Like a copper-haired, steely-eyed bomber pilot, Roman De Angelis barreled down the track at the Detroit Grand Prix with perfect precision and breakneck speed. A blur of blue and green, The Heart of Racing Aston Martin streaked like a bat out of hell in search of the checkered flag. For this 20-year-old Belle River native, the need for speed is a passion, and he and his team have no interest in second place at what is essentially De Angelis' hometown track. Like an Olympic relay runner, De Angelis passed the wheel on to teammate Ross Gunn, who finished what the young man started. Fulfilling a childhood fantasy, De Angelis' first run at the big track across the river ended in victory. "We had our season-best qualifying, so we rolled off third for the start of the race," said De Angelis. "I dropped back a bit at the start but was able to pick up a few places because other drivers had a couple mistakes and incidents.

SPOTLIGHT

As the starting driver, the faster De Angelis could make it to the midway point of the race, the better chance his teammate, Ross Gunn, had at bringing home the checkered flag for The Heart of Racing team.

What we're doing is not only exciting and fun, we're racing cars, but we're doing it for a cause.

"I think they bridge Windsor and Detroit to make a big event in the middle of both of us." De Angelis is happy to pick up the win with Gunn and The Heart of Racing team.

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De Angelis is proud to be a part of The Heart of Racing team, especially for the generosity and support they provide to those in need. The team makes large-sum donations to the Seattle Children's Hospital, a project that De Angelis says they actively raise money for.

"I was in second, catching the leader, and went out at the midway point for our driver change," recalled De Angelis. "My teammate, Ross, went in, and we were in second at that point. He chipped away at it, "They make a lot of donations," he stated. trying to catch the leader at the end, and we "There's been a massive amount of money finished second." that's been donated through our on-track The team was pleased with the finish, ordeals. What we're doing is not only exciting but an unexpected turn of events led to a and fun, we're racing cars, but we're doing it for a cause. We're doing our race, but there great surprise. "There was a post-race infringement for are kids and other people in the hospital who the other team, and they were disqualified, are fighting their own race against whatever their disease is." which gave us the win," he explained. Racing is something that is in De Angelis' On June 12, De Angelis conquered a blood, a part of his psyche, something that boyhood dream, winning the Detroit Grand was instilled in him from a very young age Prix, a race he had grown up watching with by his father. his father. "My middle name is Senna [a nod to the "It's a great event, and the track is really racing great, Ayrton Senna da Silva], so that cool as well," he said. "It's a cool old school is a massive portion of where my passion and street circuit, so there's not much room for drive came from," admits De Angelis. "My error there at super high speed." dad did racing, and growing up watching "I think that everybody wants to race in the IMSA championship, which I'm in now, their own backyard. A race like the Detroit watching F1, watching Le Mans, I always Grand Prix – it's such a beautiful city – I had a passion, I always enjoyed watching it. I love Detroit. always enjoyed cars." "I feel that, before all of this pandemic stuff, I was there once a week for dinner, a sports game with friends, or walking around. I've always loved the city, and I've been to the race pretty much every year since it's come back – recently for meetings, but also to watch with my friends or my dad. I've always been in and out of that venue and have always enjoyed what they do and how they bring fans in and the city together.

Special thanks to Ken Quinn for the use of his Aston Martin and Luke Piskovic for the use of his bays for the shoot location.

results, and it's nice to have it finally pay off and get a win."

"To do it at home is super cool, in a race that I was looking forward to competing in so much," he explained. "I'm really happy for The Heart of Racing and Aston Martin on getting their first win in the WeatherTech Championship, with our team being in the only Aston Martin. That’s a great feat, not only for the team but for the Aston Martin brand in general. I'm happy for everyone. They did a flawless job all weekend, and in the past years, we've had some really good

However, his progression in motorsports wasn't automatic. It was gradual, in small doses, allowing his curiosity for the sport to propagate and then slowly boil to a fever pitch. "When I was about six or seven, my dad bought me a go-kart," recalled De Angelis. "We'd go about once a year, and I really liked it." "When I turned 10, my dad said there was an opportunity to go race if I wanted to try and race go-karts. I started in Point Pelee; there's a club there. I won my first race, and I caught the bug. From there, it just kept building and building, and it took up a massive chunk of my life from that point, but I would never trade it for anything." De Angelis quickly made a name for himself, eventually becoming a national go-karting champion, before moving on to Formula 1600 racing and winning Rookie of the Year honours. In 2017, at only 16 years old, De Angelis competed in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Gold Class in Canada and the US. As the youngest driver on the circuit, he made history by becoming the youngest Canadian championship winner, 15

while finishing in the runner-up position in least, but once you start getting in a rhythm the US. and understand that these are just other guys In 2020, when De Angelis joined The who are here for a reason, just like you are, Heart of Racing team, he found himself you just pull your visor down and do what among his heroes, among men he had grown you can to beat all of them." up admiring.

One of the perks of the job? How about driving an Aston Martin? "The first few weekends last year – after I signed a pro contract and was in a profes"Of course, driving Astons is cool," said sional series where everyone is a professional a grinning De Angelis. "They are a beautiful and at the peak of their careers – were a bit car with a very rich history, and now I'm a overwhelming, as I was racing against guys part of their driver academy. They give you that I always looked up to," admitted De support, and you have to send them a couple Angelis. "I'm pretty young, so five to seven things after every time you race – about the years ago, I was watching these guys – like weekend and stuff like that." Kevin Magnussen, who's in F1, big names "It's an iconic brand. They have a lot of from the Global Racing Series, IndyCar, racing history; they've won a lot, so I want to Jimmie Johnson from NASCAR – anyone see if I can add to that." and everyone runs in it because it's such an De Angelis explained that driving a enjoyable and competitive series." race car isn't just simple driving. It is more about endurance – it's like a marathon – and once he's dialled in, it's hard to compare the experience to anything else in sports. "It's such a mind game, and there's so much going on, and so much that can go wrong," he stated. "There's not a sport with more factors than racing." "I have one experience that I remember vividly, where I was in a 45-minute race, and I asked my team how long was left until the end of the race. They were like, 'Five minutes,' and I thought there was a half-hour left."

Once the butterflies wore off, he soon learned that, although he looked up to these drivers, they were also just human. "The first few races were a bit nerve-wracking, to say the 16 16

Sometimes, it goes the other way. "You're three hours straight in a car sometimes. It's like you drive to Toronto, you're tired at the end, but try doing that at the end of your mental capacity, and there are 40 other cars around you. You have traffic, lights, people driving into you – it's gruelling, and it's hard for people to understand."

De Angelis and The Heart of Racing team are into the heart of their season, with plenty of races still to go. De Angelis is looking forward to what the remainder of the season brings. "Right now, we're leading the championship, so we're hoping to keep picking away at top-five results and grabbing podiums and wins when we can – when we're at a track that we're capable of doing it," stated De Angelis. "The team's been doing an awesome job all year. Me, my teammate, Ross, and then Ian James, who is in for the endurance races, we're all looking strong for the rest of the season, so I'm sure we can keep the momentum and keep the ball rolling and hopefully grab some more points to have the championship at the end." D

Congratulations

Roman De Angelis on Winning the Detroit Grand Prix

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PROFILE

A State-of-the-Art Collision Centre for the Modern Vehicle CSN Tilbury, CSN Chatham, CSN Chatham East & CK Auto Sales

Ryan Johnson and Chris Jones, President and Vice President, and Founders of Apex Auto Group aren’t afraid to reach beyond their comfort zones and think outside the box. When COVID-19 hit, Apex Auto Group, who are the owners of CSN Chatham, Chatham-East, Tilbury and CK Auto Sales, were faced with the decision to ride it out or take a chance on something new; they decided to jump further into the industry that they believe in and did what they do best: stay ahead of the curve. Ryan and his team bid on a boat restoration project with RAEON (the Real-Time Aquatic Ecosystem Observation Network), funded by the Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and based out of the University of Windsor, and though it was an unusual and unexpected project for them, the CSN team took to it with heart. Refurbishing The Loon meant getting it ready to hit the Great Lakes, as the boat would act as a vessel to deploy high-powered buoys into Lake Erie. These buoys monitor the lake’s water quality, detect its rising water levels, and then collect the necessary data. Then, by using real-time technology, the buoys provide greater – and immediate – insight on water quality issues directly to scientists. Katelynn Ingersoll, RAEON’s Research and Operations Director, explains the importance of the early intervention that the buoys provide. “Using these sensors to gauge rising water levels or understanding if there is a harmful algae bloom that can potentially harm our water supply acts as an early warning system. This way we can use the measures we have in place to mitigate harm ahead of time.” After receiving the green light for the project, the CSN team got to work on stripping the boat, painting it, and restoring it to beyond what it would have been in the 80s. “This research vessel was completely custom built for a retired professor and you just can’t buy boats like this anymore,” Ryan says about the sound structure of the boat. Through the Apex Auto Group’s connections, they were also able to outsource the work of upgrading the boat’s GPS and chart plotters and restored The Loon all in one spot.

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PROFILE

has different tool requirements,” Ryan says about acquiring all nine certifications, and working towards their 10th with Volkswagen. “It’s an investment that we were happy to make for our customers and community because cars and technology are so advanced, and we have to keep up with the safety features necessary for each new model.” These certifications take new equipment, time, expenses, and training, but it was never a question whether he would upgrade the shops; when these programs first became available, CSN Collision Chatham/Tilbury were at the forefront and were the third sponsored collision centre to receive GM certification. “With this company, I try to be as proactive as possible. Having a team of people who believe in what we’re doing and who are on the same page, well that’s how we can keep working towards those goals,” Ryan says. Their collaborative environment shines through in their positive customer service attitude and having their OEM certifications speaks volumes about their devotion to customer safety.

and Windsor-Essex, where we’re surrounded and liability in maintaining the customer’s by the water, we should be thinking about unwavering trust. the quality of our drinking water and care Being certified with nine manufacturers about what’s happening with our Great means that CSN Chatham/Tilbury can Lakes. This was one way to help with that.” work on your specific vehicle make, know This type of innovative work is exactly your exact car model and its needs, while the type for which CSN Collision Chatham, having the proper qualifications and certifiChatham-East, Tilbury, and CK Auto Sales cations to work on that specific model from are known. Along with completing unique the manufacturer itself. Because of the OE projects like painting classic cars, doing indus- certifications achieved, Ryan and his team trial painting, or the odd time of repairing are also able to access the most recent parts a vintage boat, CSN Chatham/Tilbury for vehicles directly from your manufacturer maintains its reputation on upgrading their and offer these original dealership parts at a state-of-the-art collision centres by exceeding competitive price. all expectations. Obtaining the certifications wasn't easy, as it Vehicles are the second largest investment required representatives from Chrysler, Nissan, someone will make in their lifetime, which is Hyundai, and others to come in, inspect and why the company has acquired the advanced audit the CSN Collision Chatham/Tilbury tools required to properly repair vehicles shops, check which paints they’re using, the back to pre-accident conditions. Their quality of products, and whether their technicontinued focus on OE (Original Equipcians were properly certified. ment) Manufacturer certifications solidifies “These are expensive things to accomthe brand’s three pillars: brand confidence plish, especially because each manufacturer for dealers, safety and quality for customers, THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

What drivers may not know is that even if your insurance is encouraging you to visit one shop, it’s within your rights to go to the shop of your choice. Working with a collision shop that is manufacturer certified, whether a minor scratch or post-accident, ensures that you’re not just leaving with a car that looks good, but one that is safe and sound to get back on the road. Ryan and his team are proud to work with the CSN Group as a whole, one of Canada’s most advanced networks of independently owned and operated collision repair facilities. All CSN Collision Centres locations are committed to the same level of high-quality standards. Customers can expect outstanding service across the network – guaranteed. Should warranty work need to be performed, customers can visit any CSN Collision Centre in Canada to have their vehicle repaired to their satisfaction. CSN Collision Centres deliver safety, reliability, and trust to every customer. A special thanks to all who assisted with “The Loon” project, including: Lakefront Marine: For assistance with the install of the navigation system for the boat. J & D Auto Glass: For helping install all the glass back into the boat. Piskey’s Mobile Auto Wash & Detailing: For installing customer graphics and protective exterior paint protection. Brown’s Auto Supply/AkzoNobel: For supplying paint and materials to restore and renovate the boat. D 21

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GIVING YOU BACK YOUR SUMMER (AND YOUR BACKYARD) Sponsored Content this business so quickly is because of the relationships he’s built. He loves talking to people, and lights up every time he mentions a conversation he’s had with a client,” Jeff adds. With Jeremy’s understanding of his clients comes beneficial add-ons and personal touches to the service based on clients’ needs. One of the recent add-ons that Jeremy has included in the removal service is monitoring dog’s droppings. “Nobody wants to look at their pets’ droppings, and I’m in no way shape or form a vet, but I know the signs and can see if your dog has a healthy diet, or whether they need to go to the vet,” Jeremy says. By monitoring these droppings, Jeremy can make sure you know sooner rather than later if there’s something you need to know about your dog’s health and wellness.

The evenings are warm, the BBQs are hot, and your outside patio is calling. Spending time in your backyard is a summer staple, but as many pet owners know, maintaining the animal waste isn’t the way you want to be spending those precious warm days outside. Mr. Pooper Scooper doesn’t just take away the problem of pet poop, but they give you back your summer – and your backyard. What started as a way for Jeremy Markham to make some extra money for THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

“And it’s not just about keeping your yard clean, but your home sanitary. Your dogs don’t pay attention to where they step, and if they’re running into the house, they’re inviting bacteria into the home,” Jeremy says. “Plus, every dog is a lapdog now, so Photography by Trevor Booth you’ve got big labs on the couch and up on beds,” Jeff adds. Their services range from travel expenses to see his daughter quickly weekly pickup, multiple times a week, or turned into a must-book service in the area. just an after-Winter cleanup. Mr. Pooper “I remember calling my mom and asking her Scooper also offers kitty litter cleanup, and if I should do this,” Jeremy says. “I ended up power washing for decks, landscaping, and going with my gut, publishing the Facebook backyards for that pesky goose and other announcement, and that was the start of fowl waste. it. Now we’re just a couple of regular guys Along with their outstanding services running a business,” Jeremy says about later comes the added bonus of knowing that bringing his long-time friend Jeff Garton a portion of their sales goes towards the on for the backend office, marketing, and Humane Society of Windsor, as well as the admin work. relief that comes with the company striving “I liked what he was doing, in helping for greener initiatives. Mr. Pooper Scooper is people enjoy their pets and yards, so I currently in talks with a company in Toronto jumped in,” Jeff says. “Plus, Jeremy’s got that will take the animal waste and turn it a great outlook on life, which makes you into clean energy, so rather than the waste want to work with him.” Together, they going to the landfill, it will be used towards tackle being the only company of its kind a productive future. in Windsor-Essex, and they don’t take this For those seasons, or if poop is just a honour lightly. The two don’t just view this pain in your grass, let Mr. Pooper Scooper as a business, but as a way to make friends do the dirty work, so that you can get back and get to know families who welcome them to enjoying your backyard and the fun into their homes. parts of having a pet again. To book an “Jeremy isn’t just out there scooping appointment, please call Jeremy Markham poop and leaving. The reason he’s scaled at 519-819-1261 today. D 23

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MAKING BIG THINGS HAPPEN SHAN HASAN By Matthew St. Amand Photography by Trevor Booth

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Through his life, the many paths Shan journeyed led right where he wanted to be. For Shan Hasan of RE/MAX Capital Diamond Realty, rising to the occasion comes as naturally as rising from bed in the morning. Born in 1978, Shan grew up in Leamington, Ontario with his parents, Razia and Najam, and older siblings, Rosie and Kash. During his formative years, Shan’s aspirations sometimes surpassed his abilities. Standing five feet tall in ninth grade, he tried out for the high school basketball team three years in a row, finally making the squad in grade 11. “My biggest focus, though, was tennis,” he says. “Everything falls on you. If the ball flies by, you missed it. If your serve is out, that’s you. There is nobody else to look to.” Following high school, Shan studied Criminology and Sociology at the University of Windsor. “My mind was always filled with ideas,” Shan recalls, “which made it difficult to concentrate on my classes. I wasn’t one to just sit and read. I needed to see it, do it, and learn!” He soon his got his chance. “My brother lived in Chicago,” Shan says. “He called and told me about an entertainment-based magazine in Chicago that was popular, wondering if Windsor could support something similar. This was before Facebook—the magazine really cornered the market, reporting on clubs, concerts, and events.” Shan jumped in with both feet and Windsor Social Magazine as born in October 2002. “It was a pocket-sized magazine that people thought was really cool,” Shan explains. “We took it online, hired photographers to hit clubs and concerts. People visiting the website could see what happened last night. The magazine boomed. The website had 10,000-plus views a day, back when people had dial-up!” A year later, after a trip to Toronto, Shan and Kash launched Toronto Social Magazine. Shan was finally receiving the education that he wanted: “I learned that selling, in general, is tough,” he says, “but selling advertising is the toughest sale you can make. We stuck with it, and Toronto

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Social Magazine took off. That’s when I cashed in my chips at the U of W.” Every trip to Toronto took the Hasan brothers through London. One day, they wondered: “Why don’t we try the magazine here?” They did, and though few steps in the process came easily, they made a success of it. The brothers ran the magazines for 15 years. Shan recalls: “During that time, other businesses called us, asking us to make them websites and do graphic design work for them.” Never ones to say “no” to work, Shan and Kash launched Blue Apple in 2008, which they promoted as a marketing agency. Blue Apple printed Windsor Social Magazine and eventually built a roster of more than 300 clients. “It was a very natural, organic progression,” Shan says. With all boom times and great ideas, there comes a moment when those in the vortex ask: “What’s next?” The question came at a crazy time for Shan. “I was engaged and had a baby on the way,” he recalls. “Windsor Social Magazine and Blue Apple were great, but they wouldn’t sustain a family. I had a knack for sales, so I asked myself: ‘What is the biggest thing I can sell?’” The answer was almost instantaneous: “‘Real Estate’ popped in my head,” he says. “That night, I registered for my real estate license.” Shan did not relish the return to classes and texts books, but having a goal kept him motivated. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when it’s not for you,” he reflects. “All the molds I created for myself in my head, broke, and I stepped up my game, studied from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day.” He completed the program in 16 months, passing every exam while running multiple businesses. “Getting my license was a very emotional experience for me,” he says. One policy Shan had throughout his life was that he told very few people about his ideas and endeavors in the early stages. Left to Right: Jay Khawaja, Samantha Eskharia, Shan Hasan, Joanne Thibert, Elton Fero, Amy Willms.

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Left to Right: Crystal Eskharia, Elton Fero, Amy Willms, Jay Khawaja, Joanne Thibert, Samantha Eskharia, Evanz Minas, Shan Hasan touring a custom built Roseland home.

“I told a close friend about the concept With a family to support, Shan turned for Windsor Social Magazine,” Shan says, on the afterburners, rising to one of the top “and he said: ‘Man, that is the stupidest idea agents at Royal LePage Binder Realty (among I ever heard!’ I made a mental note of that.” approximately 100 agents). Almost immediately, his numbers doubled. The following While he worked to obtain his real estate year, his numbers doubled, again. Soon license, Shan slipped and shared his plan after that, Shan was so busy, he went to his with a trusted mentor. The mentor said: manager and said: “I need to explore a team.” “Shan, are you crazy? You’ll be eaten alive! This would become The Hasan Group, a That is such a cut throat industry!” team Shan thinks of as his second family. Rather than being derailed by the The first agent Shan brought on was negativity, it motivated Shan. “Natalie’s Elton Fero, a charismatic honours graduate opinion is the only one that matters, in Communications from the U of W, who anyhow,” he says. has a genuine passion to care for people, Another person who believed in Shan which is reflected in his stellar sales was his neighbour at the time, Nick Tonita. numbers. Samantha Eskharia joined soon after, making a strong impression, bringing Nick asked Shan to sell his house. nine years experience as a CBSA Customs “‘Thank you!’ I said to him,” Shan recalls. Analyst. Amy Willms came on board for “‘I will make your house famous!’” her customer service experience and ability In a matter of weeks, Shan made the sale to build relationships. Shan describes her and helped Nick buy his new house. He never as, “taking Leamington by storm.” Crystal looked back. Eskharia is Business Administration During his Blue Apple days, Shan graduate from the U of W. She is methodpursued real estate agents as potential clients. ical and aggressive in her approach and Few, if any, took him up on the offer. Shan brings vital social media savvy to the team. Jay Khawaja brings 15 years of sales experinow put those ideas to work for himself. ence from the banking sector. Administra“I was among the first agents to post tive assistant, Joanne Thibert, provides the video tours online,” he says. “Finding the invaluable support required to keep the team most effective marketing techniques is a rolling. She is in the process of becoming a never-ending search.” Licensed Team Coordinator. In August 2009, Shan and Natalie’s By 2019, Shan had earned top accolades daughter was born. at Royal LePage Binder Realty, being named 28

to the “Chairman’s Club” as one of the Top 1 percent sellers among its 18,000 agents across Canada. In 2020, Shan was recognized by Real Estate Professional Magazine as one of the Top 100 agents in Canada. At that point, The Hasan Group took off full force. Shan and his team connected with Albert Kantarjian, broker of record at RE/MAX Capital Diamond Realty. They eventually broke free of their brokerages and launched with RE/ MAX Capital Diamond Realty. In the last seven years, The Hasan Group has worked with more than 550 clients and have facilitated more than $135,000,000 in real estate sales. For all the honours and top seller lists, Shan and his team remember why they do what they do: “Our motto is: ‘People, property, and passion’,” Shan says. “That sums up The Hasan Group experience. Everything is a relationship. Everything is about the people.” It would be easy for someone firing on all cylinders, experiencing such success, to get lost in his own legend, but Shan Hasan keeps it real and his focus does not waver from what is most important in life: his family. “I am blessed with an amazing wife and two incredible kids,” Shan says. His wife, Natalie, is a former social worker, and owner of P.R.A.Y. Boutique in Walkerville.

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“She has sacrificed everything so I can do what I do,” Shan says. “She plays a huge role in our lives. I can’t imagine anyone better being our guiding light. She has been by my side from the very beginning. She’s had her struggles, too, but knows the best is yet to come.” Then he laughs: “She’s also the only person who can tell me I’m talking too much!” Since Day One of his career in real estate, Shan set aside every Saturday as “Family Day”. No matter what is going on, he spends that day with his family. As for vacations, some might envision Shan jet-setting in SaintTropez, but his favourite getaway is driving up north to camp with his family. “We want our children to know and love what Canada has to offer. It’s so beautiful. There is nothing better than being in nature, with a fire going. After three days, I am so refreshed, clear-headed. The trees and the earth and the water heal me. I really get into it and my wife says: ‘Yes, we’re in nature, but you can change your clothes, once in a while. You don’t need to become a cave man!’” Shan also believes in giving back to the community. Annually, The Hasan Group donates generously to local causes, such as In Honour of the Ones You Love – Essex County, Humane Society, SickKids Foundation, and the Canadian Cancer Society. Transition to Betterness is close to Shan’s heart after his mother was diagnosed with cancer. “Amid the chaos of my mom’s final days,” Shan remembers, “Amber and her team at T2B stepped up immediately, not because I was a sponsor, but because it’s what they do. They genuinely helped. In the room provided by T2B, my mom lived the last moments of her life in peace and comfort. I will never forget that.” Although tennis was his sport in his youth, Shan says the most important lesson he learned was in basketball: “Team sports teach us how to work with others, performing your role so that the team, as a unit, can succeed.” He is circumspect about his success, as he reflects: “It’s been my honour and privilege to play a role in helping my team grow their businesses, expand their minds, and live the most satisfying lives they can. As for the future, so much has happened in the last seven years. In fact, just two days ago, I passed the last exam for my broker’s license. I have big plans, but I have learned to keep an open mind. All I can say is: Life is beautiful!” D Photo by Zishan Ali

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PROFILE

WISER WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND WISER MORTGAGES Customizing Your Financial Plan to Fit Your Needs Photo by Heike Delmore

Giving clients a well-rounded approach to financial wellness had always been a priority for Wiser Wealth Management founder, Jason Campbell. What started as an independent financial planning firm of one, has since grown into a team of eight with an additional branch, Wiser Mortgages (O.M.A.C. 10674 Mortgages, powered by TMG The Mortgage Group.) The entire team strives to provide clients the financial advice that works with their lifestyles, and not the other way around. His partnership with Associate Paolo Battisti and Mortgage Agent Kathryn Komsa

(more commonly known as Kat), has allowed the Wiser Wealth brand to handle three major financial elements of our lives: investments, insurance, and mortgages. With their approach, the team can tackle any financial situation that presents itself in a client’s life, whether planned or unexpected.

17 different life insurance companies and we have access to thousands of different mutual funds through our dealer, Sterling Mutuals Inc,” Jason says about learning the value of working for himself. “I know that whatever the client needs, we can find the best product at the best price for their unique situation”

“Rather than looking at one moment in time, we look at the entire financial picture,” Kathryn says. “This is how we can transition somebody to a better place than the one they started in.”

The three bring knowledge and relatability to the table, no matter which stage of life a client is in. Since investment, insurance, and mortgage needs are often interwoven, they can help most who walk through their doors. This is where lies the benefit of looking at financial health as a full picture.

The three create a financial map with clients, taking down their goals for five, 10, to 15 years in the future. By looking beyond a single financial instance, they can help people get their entire financial situation under control and start them down the path towards financial freedom. “That’s the ultimate reward of this job,” Paolo says about enjoying working with the clients, building relationships, and making a difference in their lives. “Seeing clients go through the different stages, being able to lay out a plan, and then watch those goals come true is the best feeling. It’s amazing to see how you can impact someone’s life.” The benefit to working with either Kathryn, Paolo, or Jason is that though they work as a team, they also thrive independently and can focus in on specific financial areas. “I love the fact that I am independent because then I’m truly working towards the client’s best interest. We are contracted with

“If you only have a hammer, every problem looks like a nail,” Jason adds. “But with the three of us, we have a full toolbox, so we have the ability to bring the right tool to the job.” The entire Wiser Wealth team dedicate themselves to helping their clients build a comprehensive wealth portfolio to achieve their financial goals. They take a proactive approach to manage any unexpected life events and provide objective recommendations to help people reach financial freedom. Each individual client is unique, and the Wiser Wealth team guides them through tailor made solutions for their unique circumstance. With Wiser Wealth clients are not numbers, they are family. To contact Wiser Wealth, please call 519-256-8999 today or visit them online at www.wiser-wealth.ca today. D

The contents of this ad does not constitute an offer or solicitation for residents in the United States or in any other jurisdiction where either Wiser Wealth Management and/ or Sterling Mutuals is not registered or permitted to conduct business. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Sterling Mutuals Inc. Mutual funds provided through Sterling Mutuals Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values fluctuate frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Insurance products, and other related financial services are provided by Wiser Wealth Management as independent insurance agents, and are not the business of, or monitored by Sterling Mutuals Inc.

JULIEN'S LEGACY IS ONE OF HEALING Grieving families find support and friendship through Julien's House By Devan Mighton Photography by Syx Langemann

Darcie Renaud 34 34

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"That was Julien," explains Christine. "Julien was always taking care of everybody. He was about family, friends – it was his whole world. To him, nothing else mattered but family and friends." Minutes after gifting the Ice Capp, Julien was involved in an automobile accident that would eventually take his life. A decade later, his generosity and legacy live on through Julien's House, a bereavement support centre that aims to heal those wounded by loss through companionship, education, and support. Julien's house, since its inception, has helped countless families through the bereavement process, helping family members and friends deal with the grief of a lost loved one. For the Morneau family, the loss of both parents highlights the importance and need for bereavement support. Grief is a slippery slope. It's cyclical and comes in waves. For almost five years, Jack and Denise Morneau have lived with not just the loss of their son, Rob, but also his wife, Tricia. Denise and Jack Morneau

It could be a fleeting glimpse. The way light prisms through the living room window evokes memories. You think you hear his voice, but it's the whisper of a radio as a car passes the home you once shared. You feel his hand brush your shoulder, but it is just a breeze. His presence is inescapable, but he is no longer here.

It was two weeks until prom. He had his tickets and had rented his tux. His girlfriend had picked out the perfect dress. They were ready to step out of high school and into their future. Little did they know, it was all for not. "Julien was such a humble, loving, curious child," recalls his mother, Christine. "Julien was the type that if he was lying down on the carpet watching TV, the minute a commercial would come on, he'd get up and give you a hug and snuggle."

It feels like a cruel trick. When a loved one is gone before their time, we are left picking up the pieces of our lives. We struggle with the powerlessness of the situation, the fear of being alone in this world, and Two years younger than his sister, being forced to carry on without closure for Rachelle, he was always there for his friends someone that, for you, was the bedrock of and enjoyed team-oriented sports like broomyour being. ball and baseball. Whether it be cancer, a car crash, a "He was known as the big teddy bear at workplace accident, or any other mechanism school, constantly giving people hugs," says – the result is sudden, cold, and life-altering. Christine. "He was the gathering person. If For the friends and family who remain, they were going to go do something, Julien mourning takes on a life of its own. Emotions got everybody together." and memories come in waves that you have no option but to ride out. The question is: which direction is your ship sailing? Further out to sea or back to shore? In May 2011, Julien Gaudet breathed his last breath. A bright star in the lives of many friends and family flickered and faded in their night sky. THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

On that day in November 2016, we'll never know what flashed through Rob's mind in the instances before a workplace injury took his life. A loving husband and father, a dedicated hockey and baseball volunteer in the Riverside area, his sudden passing left behind two young sons and a wife battling for her life against cancer. At 44 years old, Rob passed away after he fell through a skylight while working in Oldcastle. "Tricia was sick prior to his death, and we were all taking turns driving her to London for treatment," laments Denise. "So tragic it was. Suddenly, he was gone, and that made it so much harder for her. As hard as she fought that disease, you could tell that she missed him so much, and it would have been the same way the other way around."

"He'd be driving her to London and back and taking care of her," recalls Jack. "When he died, it was just awful to see her response, losing him when she needed him the most. The day he died, I'll never forget On the night of the accident, Julien and a the things that happened. I replay that day few of his buddies had planned to see a show almost daily. To this day, it's hard to believe in Lakeshore. He was supposed to work at that it happened" Subway until 8 o'clock but was able to get out Tricia would succumb to cancer in early because a co-worker came in to cover. December 2017. Their two sons, Noah and He decided to buy her an Iced Capp from Christian, moved in with Rob's youngest Tim Hortons to say thanks. brother, Andrew, and his wife, Leslie. 35

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"We would never wish this on anybody. We're not supposed to bury our children," mourns Denise. "Rob was 44. There are older parents, and parents that lost children when they were very young, but, no matter what, it's tough anytime, anywhere, so if we can be there to support anybody, that's why Julien's Jack says that after Rob's passing, he was House is such a great opportunity for all of contacted by a baseball coach from North us – for those of us who have been through York with condolences and memories. He this – to be there for others." says one of Rob's greatest attributes was his sense of sportsmanship and the respect he instilled in his players.

"(Our training) was in a home run by former bereaved people who had staff who were also bereaved," recalls MacMillan. "We got the idea: 'Why can't we bring something like this to Windsor?'"

Both Noah and Christian are proficient hockey players, baseball players, and golfers and routinely go golfing with their uncles. The Morneaus say that Andrew and Leslie have done a marvellous job raising the boys and that Noah's dedication to hockey led him to be drafted by the Windsor Spitfires.

"Maybe a year and change into participating in the group, my wife and I then came to the realization that this was something we believed we could do moving forward – helping other parents," recalls Julien's father, Germain Gaudet.

"They were both very special, and we loved both of them," says Jack. "I enjoyed Rob so much growing up as a boy in Riverside minor hockey and baseball. When the two of them got married, and the boys enrolled in minor hockey and baseball, Rob was their coach."

Jack and Denise credit the benefits of bereavement support as a major factor in their healing over the past five years. "I don't know how we would have got things together without the support that we had from this group of people that we met," states Jack. "There were all different types of reasons (they were there), and we were able to sit down with people that were going through almost the same thing as us, and share our experience and hear other people say, 'Yeah, I feel that way too.'"

Christine and Germain Gaudet 36

He was about family, friends – it was his whole world. To him, nothing else mattered but family and friends.

While working with the Canadian Mental Health Association, the pair came across the Gaudets. "Colleen had the privilege of working with the Gaudets and suggested to them when it was appropriate in their grief journey to get similar training to what we got," explains MacMillan.

Germain and Christine took a sabbatical and went to the Coping Centre in Cambridge. Driving down Hwy. 401, the couple started discussing the fate of an income property they had been holding onto along County Rd. 42 and came up with an idea – Julien's House. The Gaudets came to Campo with their idea for the home, and The realization of a bereavement home she confessed that she and MacMillan were in Windsor has been something Colleen actively interested in the same concept. "We've done bereavement in this commuCampo and Christine MacMillan have dreamt of since they received their training nity for over 20 years, and this is our legacy," states Campo. "Grief is like a rollercoaster. in Cambridge almost 15 years ago.

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One day you're doing well, and you think, 'Okay, this is good.' We're in a death-denying culture that wants us to be well right away, back to our old selves right away, and we know that we aren't. We grieve physically, cognitively, spiritually, and behaviourally." Julien's House offers biweekly support, educational sessions, restorative activities like gardening, painting, and ice cream socials, and a companionship program. For one Windsor mother, companionship with another widow turned into healing and a lifelong friendship. Darcie Renaud and Shane Knapp were high school sweethearts. Shane was a skateboarder and the singer of a punk rock band. The first time Darcie laid eyes upon him, his band was playing at Jimmy's Pub in Amherstburg. She was 14 years old, and he was three years older, but she gravitated towards him. Two years later, they started dating. Despite her moving to Toronto and a subsequent breakup, they were meant to be. They got back together and eventually married in 2010. "If you ask anyone about Shane, what describes him best – he was hilarious," smiles Darcie. "People, to this day, including my sister, say that he's the funniest person they've ever met and will probably ever meet." Darcie says Shane's passion was collecting records, in the thousands, a collection she still keeps and says she will never part with. She states that he was very loyal and a good Colleen Campo & Christine MacMillan dad, as well as a good son who worked for his father in the family business. "I called her originally to ask her how to On February 27, 2015, Darcie's world deal with my son. What do I do here? Tell me came crashing down. She had taken a sick what the right thing to do is because I have day from work to get some stuff done. Seven no idea," she recalls. "She ended up coming months pregnant, she dropped off her three- to my house for grief counselling once a week year-old son, Henry, at daycare. It was her for an entire year. That was so helpful. I don't father-in-law's birthday, so she joined them at know what I would have done without that." the office for lunch before heading to Zehrs Christine suggested companionship for some shopping. for Darcie, which led to her meeting Erin "I was in the grocery store maybe 45 Schauer one fateful day over coffee. It was minutes after I had left the office, and an instant match. I looked at my phone and saw there were "We met in Starbucks, and we've been like 15 missed calls," recalls Darcie. "I called close ever since," explains Darcie. "She said Shane's dad back, and he was screaming into that the moment I dropped an F-bomb that the phone, and I'm in the baby aisle with a cart she knew it was meant to be." full of groceries. He told me something had In 2015, Erin's husband, Ryan, also happened to Shane, but he was hysterical." passed away in an industrial accident. She She soon learned from a paramedic had a son just about Henry's age and found that Shane had died. He had been pinned out she was pregnant a week after Ryan's between a tractor and a train car in a passing, similar to Darcie and her newborn workplace accident. daughter Hazel. Darcie doesn't remember how she "She's one of my best friends now, and received Christine MacMillan's phone we have talked each other through annivernumber but says it was a godsend.

saries and Christmases," says Darcie. "I don't know what I'd do without her. We go on vacations with our kids now. Only someone who has that exact experience would get you. I don't know what I'd do without her, honestly." Today, Darcie wants to help others and has joined Julien's House as a board member. Julien's House is here to help people deal with loss, and with the experience of Campo, MacMillan, the Gaudets, the Morneaus, and many others who are bereaved, they are ready to help. "I want to move the perception of grief," states MacMillan. "It's not an illness. It's not something we get over like a broken leg or a cold. It's something we have to experience, and it's the result of loving and being attached to someone. It's a normal process. If you take the risk of loving, you also risk grief." For more information on Julien's House, please visit their website at julienshouse.ca. D 37

PROFILE

A Family Legacy Continues Marcel’s Collision Celebrates 70 Years in Business

Looking back at 70 years in business, Marcel’s Collision has a lot to be proud of. Starting from humble roots as a service garage shop in 1951, this familyrun business has branched into a complete auto collision shop that not only specializes in repairing vehicles with top-of-the-line collision repair systems, but also sells and leases cars. Along with expanding their top-notch team, the shop has evolved into exactly the business that Marcel had hoped and wished for when establishing this foundation – one that stays true to its mission of keeping family at the heart. Darlene Marier, Marcel’s daughter, remembers how even at five years old, she was a welcomed “employee” at the shop. “I was too little to pump gas, so I would just wipe the headlights and folks would give me a nickel!” Darlene says. Since the house had a confectionary and lunch bar, Darlene’s positions within the company moved from selling penny candy, to serving burgers and hot dogs, until she was eventually crunching the numbers and running the office from 1971 to 1980. “My dad was such a great boss; everyone loved him,” Darlene says. “He loved to work. So much that even at one point in time he had the gas station with the mechanical repair going, a towing service and even ran a taxi service at night!” Darlene remembers. Darlene has since retired but says that it means the world to her that the business stayed with the family. Her uncle Jerome took over the business, and was Marcel’s longest running owner. Jerome was not only responsible for building the auto collision shop portion of the company but establishing the connection between Marcel’s and the insurance business. “It’s really hard to get into the insurance business, but once I did, we were a big success from there on,” he recounts. Though now retired as well, Jerome has passed the reigns onto his son Marc and Marc’s daughter Michelle. “When I came to work for my dad, I didn’t know a whole lot about cars,” Marc says about coming onboard in 1980. “What I did know was that I didn’t want to just punch a clock, I told him I wanted to deal with people.” Marc worked his way up in the business, starting with handling the selling, the leasing, and the estimates side of the business, and the passion grew from there.

Marcel's Team

Marcel's Collision 5584 Tecumseh Rd E, Windsor, ON N8T 1C7 www.marcelscollision.com

No matter the position within Marcel’s, the drive was always in the people for Marc. He’s always prided himself on putting the customer first and educating them rather than just giving them an estimate. “If you get into an accident, it’s confusing. You’re not sure whether to go with insurance or not, and you need the facts before you make a decision. We’ll always provide legitimate facts so that customers can make an intelligent and informed decision.” Marc’s heart stretches from customers to employees, and the low turnover rate at the shop speaks volumes to the way Marc has run the show. He even says,

“There are no more bosses at Marcel’s; we’re all one big team and I wouldn’t be here without my dedicated employees.” Patrick Ducharme, a long-time client of Marcel’s, echoes the praise for the team at the shop. He says they can handle every bit of work he’s had done to his car. From full body to the lightest key scratch, their “masterful mechanic” Doug, handles the work with care. Patrick says he feels taken care of at Marcel’s, and that it’s because of the sense of togetherness that the team brings. “They work together and love each other, and you can feel it. I know they will always strive to be better, but I also know that in that growth, they will stay true to who they are.” Marc’s daughter Michelle, who has already unofficially taken over as Marc is semi-retired, says that her dad and grandfather have been the backbone of this company, and are the reason the business is where it is today. “I know we wouldn’t be here without both of them. They’ve put so many years into the business, and I want to recognize their hard work and devotion to the company.” Originally planning on pursuing law school, Michelle – similarly to Marc with his own dad – came to work just to help out “here and there.” Over the years, Michelle sunk into the same passion that her father exudes for the industry and business, and she followed in his footsteps by climbing the ladder quickly. From working in the auto collision shop to the appraisal office estimating damages on vehicles, Michelle wears a lot of hats within Marcel’s. She says she’s ready to fully take on this new “hat” and that deciding to switch careers was the best decision she’s ever made. She adds that she and Marc work well together, and she has so much respect and admiration for the business he’s built. The two have the same end goal: he to pass on a successful business, and her for wanting to carry it on. “Michelle has been my boss for a while now, but I have to remind her who the owner still is,” Marc laughs. “She’s the new generation and there’s a lot on her hands but she’s intelligent, motivated, and professional, and absolutely the right girl for the job.”

Top: Doug White (Mechanical Department Manager/Appraiser) who has been with us for almost 40 years and Devin King (Technician) Bottom: Jerome Marier (1st generation), Marc Marier (2nd Generation) and Michelle Marier-Whitehead (3rd generation)

Michelle is now the third generation of Mariers to run Marcel’s Collision and she doesn’t take that lightly. She knows the dedication it’s taken to get them here and she feels proud to be trusted with the responsibility of following two generations of hard work and devotion to the industry. “To have this honour of celebrating 70 years, and to now have children of my own, I’m even more motivated to carry on the Marcel name and keep this business going for my family as it was for me.” “I think what’s gotten us here is really simple, it’s our family-oriented mentality,” Michelle adds. They treat their customers like family because they are one. “By guiding them the right way, customers know they can trust us with getting their families back on the road safely after an accident.” Craig Lanoue, another lifelong customer of the shop’s, has not only done business with the family for 40 years, but has had the privilege of calling them friends. “Jerome did a lot of business with my dad back in the day, including auto repairs and rebuilds, and also buying used parts,” Craig says about the collaboration with his father’s business, Andre Lanoue Pontiac Buick GMC. “It was a trusted partnership, and for them to be celebrating 70 years is well-deserved. Congratulations to that entire team and family, and more success is wished your way.” Marcel’s Collision is humbled and grateful to be celebrating these 70 years in business and want to thank the Windsor-Essex community for allowing them to serve them for this long. Taking care of customers and employees, and putting them first, is just in their nature – you could say it runs in the family. D

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GETAWAY Plan an Unforgettable Summer Staycation in Essex County By Jen Brignall-Strong Photography by Trevor Booth

Sandy beaches. Waterfront views. Worldclass dining. Luxury accommodations. While some might think you have to hop on a plane to experience these high-end attractions, the truth is they’re all available right in our own backyard. As the country’s southernmost destination, our warmer temperatures mean there’s no shortage of fun, safe activities to enjoy outdoors in Windsor-Essex County. As the province continues its reopening plan, it’s more important than ever to support our local restaurants, wineries, hotels, and retailers as they get back to business

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The Walnut Grove Bed & Breakfast in Harrow. THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

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Magnolia Ranch Bed & Breakfast

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Nestled in the heart of Essex County’s wine country sits Magnolia Ranch; a stunning Victorian-style estate where vintage-inspired charm meets elegant, modern amenities. The newly renovated 4-bedroom bed & breakfast, located on County Road 50 in Harrow, is owned and operated by friends Gloria Cavenago and Linda Jeffery, who share a passion for supporting local and an eye for design. The pair met through their charity work and purchased the ranch together in 2019. “There is amazing energy on this property,” notes Cavenago. “The trees are just majestic and there’s always something blooming or flowering.” The ten acre property is truly an experience in itself, with plenty to do including picnics, cycling, nature walks, and bonfires. Just steps away from Lake Erie, there are many opportunities for fishing, boating and birding as well. Magnolia Ranch is also quickly becoming a favourite venue choice for special events, hosting outdoor weddings, bridal showers, and other private gatherings on their spacious patio. With over two decades of experience, Cavenago, Jeffery and their event coordinators Carly and Kaleigh ensure every detail is attended to with the utmost care.

“We’ve hosted many outdoor weddings this past year,” says Cavenago, noting that even amid COVID-19 restrictions, couples have been able to enjoy a memorable, intimate celebration. As the province continues its reopening plan, Cavenago says they hope to start offering other on-site activities again including cooking classes and special catered dinners, which were extremely popular before the pandemic closures. Another exciting development is the establishment of an on-site microbrewery. Together with Kingsville Brewery, Magnolia Ranch is thrilled to begin brewing their own beers on site; made from barley they’ve grown themselves on the property. “We’ll be growing our own hops as well,” says Cavenago. The pair is working alongside the brewery to develop two unique brews specifically for Magnolia and will also carry a selection of Kingsville Brewery’s other creations. The beer can be enjoyed on site or purchased to go. Of course, being just a stone’s throw away from several of the region’s top wineries makes Magnolia Ranch the ideal destination for wine connoisseurs and foodies alike. And with their in-house concierge service, Cavenago says they can arrange wine tours, dinner reservations, bike rentals, and more. “We want our guests to really enjoy the area while they’re here,” she says. They encourage guests to enjoy their downtime on the ranch as well. Special attention has been paid to ensure each room provides maximum comfort and convenience. Each offers a SMART TV, small SMEG fridge, and lux linens. “Sleep is so important, especially when you’re away,” notes Cavenago. “We knew the mattress and bedding had to be perfect to ensure our guests would have a great night’s sleep.” Guests are treated to a gourmet hot breakfast each morning by Kaleigh, who is also the onsite innkeeper. Charcuterie boards and desserts can be ordered for post-dinner snacking as well. The team looks forward to a busy summer and encourages people to book their stay well in advance. “It’s a great place for a mid-week escape because we’re so close but you still feel like you’re getting away from it all,” says Cavenago. To learn more about Magnolia Ranch, follow them on Facebook or Instagram or book your getaway at www.magnoliaranch.ca. Gift certificates are also available for any amount or a specific room.

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Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery Sun, Sand & Sangria

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As Ontario’s only beachfront winery, Sprucewood Shores is an idyllic spot to spend a summer afternoon. Their sprawling grounds are dotted with shaded picnic tables and beach chairs, making it a safe, socially-distant way to enjoy a glass of your favourite wine and breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Magnolia Ranch Bed & Breakfast 44

“The property is just gorgeous,” says retail manager Melanie Mason. “We have so much going on here this summer.”

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Before picking a spot to unwind, guests can stop into the winery to grab their favourite refreshments. Sprucewood will once again be offering their popular wine tasting flights, grazing boxes, and picnic baskets made to order, as well as a few new additions for the season: charcuterie cones. The handheld, biodegradable cones come filled with nuts, cheese, fruit, olives and other snacks to pair with your favourite red, white, or rosé. Want to bypass the inside crowd? Visitors can now pick up everything they need at the all-new Beach Hut, located at the waterfront and offering a selection of wine, sangria, local beer, and light snacks. Weekends are filled with local entertainment, including the Sprucewood Shores Summer Concert Series. “We’re thrilled to be bringing in a lot of homegrown talent,” says Mason. Live performances take place every Sunday in July and August from 1:30pm to 3:30pm and are free to patrons of the winery. A complete list of upcoming musicians can be found on the Events page of their website. For those days when Mother Nature doesn’t want to cooperate, Mason says the show will go on underneath the winery’s huge outdoor tent, which is also available to host small weddings and other private events. The winery also offers two different tour and tasting options on their side patio every Sunday: a wine, chocolate & cheese pairing and tour at 11am and a wine tasting talk and tour at 1pm, both hosted by one of their onsite experts. Reservations are required and can be booked through the website. To learn more about Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery’s summer events, check them out on Facebook and Instagram or log onto www. sprucewoodshores.com to plan your visit.

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The Vintage Grape House Boat Rentals Waterfront Views

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Vintage Grape House Boat Rentals.

site. Each boat offers a host of amenities including a full kitchen, full bathroom, and barbecue. They’re also incredibly spacious and feature three different decks where guests can spend the day sunning or taking in the beauty of Lake Erie. While you could make a weekend of just lounging on board, the area offers so many wonderful outdoor activities. McGuinty has several paddle boats and kayaks available for use. A par 3 golf course is also just a short drive away. Electric bike rentals are available on site, as well as fishing boat charters. “There’s just so much going on in the area now,” says McGuinty. The boats are just minutes away from several great local restaurants offering delicious food and live entertainment. The local wineries are also a popular destination. “Most of our guests are friends doing wine tours or a getaway weekend,” he reflects. McGuinty points out that the houseboats are completely self-contained, making them one of the safest accommodation options for people looking to gather with their family or “bubble” during the pandemic.

Our area is home to a variety of exceptional overnight accommodations, both on land and on the water.

“You’re social distancing and having a good time,” he says. “It’s a safe, fun getaway.”

Imaging drifting off to the peaceful sounds of the lake lapping right outside your window after a long day exploring the area’s many wineries and trails. With The Vintage Grapes Houseboat Lodging Experience, staycationers can enjoy all the amenities of a traditional bed & breakfast aboard a 50-foot luxury yacht.

To learn more about The Vintage Grapes, follow them on social media or visit their AirBnB site to book your stay.

“They’re like fully equipped cottages on the water,” says owner Brian McGuinty, who owns and operates the fleet of vessels: the original Vintage Grape, The Cabern-EH, and the latest edition, The Merlot. The boats are permanently docked at Colchester Harbour and can each accommodate four to five guests. Since launching in 2018, McGuinty says they’ve been steadily booked each season. This summer is shaping up to be a busy one as well. “We’re very busy because everyone can’t wait to get out of the house and do something,” laughs McGuinty. Yachts can be booked online through The Vintage Grape AirBnB

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Colchester Ridge Estate Winery An EPIC Experience

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Colchester Ridge Estate Winery is thrilled to welcome back guests to their gorgeous slice of paradise in Essex County’s EPIC wine country. “Our venue is truly beautiful,” says Stephanie Kentner, CREW’s front of house supervisor, adding that the lush vineyard makes for a picturesque backdrop as patrons wine and dine the day away. Outdoor seating is available by reservation or walk-ups. The winery boasts several spacious patios to ensure everyone enjoys their time 45

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safely distanced. Four-legged friends are welcome as well, so no need to leave your pooch at home. On the patio, guests can sample a flight of CREW’s most popular varietals, including their first sparkling wine, ‘Isle of View’ (I love you.) All flights come with a complimentary cheese plate featuring artisan cheeses. “We’ve also launched an all-new summer menu,” says Kentner. “Our chef BJ Turnbull is amazing. He makes everything from scratch and has come up with so many unique items using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.” The team is excited to bring back their popular Sunday brunch as well, complete with Caesars and other fun beverages. Live local entertainment will also be on hand throughout the season for guests to enjoy as they sip and socialize. The venue also offers private event space for intimate summer gatherings including showers, rehearsal dinners, and other get-togethers as COVID restrictions allow.

“I like the idea of knowing where everything comes from. If I don’t grow it myself, I know the grower. We know the chickens that lay the eggs. We make our own in-house sausages. We serve local coffee.” Meloche, a sommelier and professionally trained chef, also offers guests a farm-to-table dining experience, creating menus based on what’s in season and pairing her dishes with local wines. A farm fresh breakfast is included in your stay, and charcuterie boards and candlelit dinners can be booked in advance. Guests can enjoy one of Meloche’s special meals and take in the property’s natural beauty by booking a “Dinner in the Meadow” or a “Stargazer Picnic.” The grounds offer four mini meadows for these intimate excursions, including one that is fully accessible for those with mobility issues. Other outdoor amenities include a heated in-ground pool, cozy pergola with Koi pond, and many hiking trails.

“We look forward to really utilizing our gorgeous new space,” notes Kentner, referring to the winery’s recently constructed expansion.

The latest addition to the grounds is a rustic chalet, created to be an event space for local concerts, small weddings, yoga classes and other gatherings. The barn also doubles as a sugar shack during maple syrup season.

To learn more about CREW or to plan your visit, follow them on Facebook and Instagram or log on to www.colchesterridge.com.

“There’s so much happening here and we’re really just getting started,” says Meloche.

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The Walnut Grove Bed & Breakfast

Quiet Country Living Close to Home

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While some seek adventure, there are those that enjoy the simple pleasures of country living. Looking for a break from the concrete jungle without having to travel miles away? The Walnut Grove Bed & Breakfast offers a tranquil setting with all the amenities of a luxury hotel.

To learn more, follow The Walnut Grove on social media or visit www.thewalnutgrovebnb.com to book your stay. And no need to leave your four-legged friend at home; The Walnut Grove is a pet-friendly venue. D

EXPERIENCE FABULOUS WINES, LOCAL FARE & VINEYARD VIEWS Sip Dine Shop

The newly restored 1902 farmhouse is located on ten acres of land in the Pleasant Valley area just outside of Harrow, although to most it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. “Our guests say that even though we’re only a half hour from the city, they feel like they’ve been transported hours away,” says owner Leslie Meloche. Meloche and her husband Bob purchased the property in 2019. Although the home underwent extensive renovations to update the functionality of the space, it still maintains its original charm. “We didn’t want to lose the character of the house,” she explains. Each of the home’s three rooms have been thoughtfully updated to provide guests a spa-like setting and are lavishly outfitted with new mattresses and top end bedding, linens, and bathrobes. While the couple have gone to great lengths to ensure their guests’ comfort, they’ve done so in a sustainable fashion. “I’ve always felt it’s important to be environmentally conscious,” says Leslie, noting that they avoid using plastics and source all their food from local suppliers as much as possible. They even utilize locally made soap crafted with walnuts from their own grove.

108 Essex County Road 50, Harrow ON 519-738-9800 Visit our website or social media for more details for more @crewinery www.colchesterridge.com

Visit our website to find out all the ways you can save on a new system or service this season! THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

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PROFILE

Grateful to be

STRONGER TOGETHER The eight construction-based Companies that comprise Sterling Ridge Group Inc. create the synergies necessary to provide full services for construction-based client needs.

The Group was born from the vision of owners and brothers J. Randall Koop and Allan J. Koop to provide premium one stop construction services. Over forty years, the Group has grown from one company, Erie Sand and Gravel Limited, to now include Sterling Ridge Infrastructure Inc, Sterling Ridge General Contracting Inc, Sterling Ridge Architectural Systems Inc, Sterling Ridge Logistics Inc., Sterling Ridge Utilities Inc., Global Electric & Lighting and Smith Contracting. At the core of the success of the Group are its People. Early on, Randall and Allan adopted a culture of respect, caring, hard work and dedication all the while employing safe work practises. As a result, the people who have come to work for the companies all exhibit and promote these traits. The Group now employs well over 300 people. Randall explains,” If we take care of our people, and our people take care of each other, and their families, that will translate into our broader community. This ensures that we, as a company, and our team members are being socially efficient. “Every person plays an important role in the Group, from the shop workers who ensure our equipment is properly serviced and supplies are at site, to our labourers, operators, electricians and carpenters executing the projects with skill and precision, the safety people who ensure we are safe at work, and administration and management that support and oversee our people and operations. Without all working together, the Group would not be successful. This is genesis of the Group motto “Stronger Together.” 48

The Group is committed to worker safety and wellbeing. Randall confirms, “that commitment is upheld top to bottom, and side to side. The most important part of our success is ensuring everyone goes home to their families at the end of every day.” Safety is the Group’s number one priority. Production never supersedes safety. These principles have led to the Group’s sustained, synergistic growth. Regardless of the size of the project, the Group takes pride in its ability to execute superior quality work, safely, on time and within budget. They allow their people to be successful and provide them with the tools and opportunities needed to achieve success. As a result of this support, Sterling Ridge Infrastructure has become a Tier 1 Supplier to the Gordie Howe International Bridge Port of Entry. Sterling Ridge General Contracting has expanded upon infrastructure work and is now assisting with the Concrete Works at the port of entry. The Group is proud of the work being done by our Infrastructure Power Division on the Lakeshore Hydro One Substation Project. Randall states that he and Allan are most proud of the “family” the Group has created who work together on every project undertaken. Without fail, all the people in all the divisions make them proud everyday. The Group wealth is in those who make it a success and the foundation is the people. This will remain the driving strategy on a go forward basis. To grow thoughtfully while ensuring all employees have the opportunities and tools for success. Building the Group reputation one project at a time. Always safely. Sterling Ridge can be reached at 519-978-3111 or online at www.sterlingridgegroup.com D

PROFILE

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W.E. MADE IT. By Jen Brignall-Strong Photography by Syx Langemann

From automotive innovation to world renowned pizza, Essex County is known for its ingenuity. This season, we’re proud to showcase just a few of the many talented residents that personify our region’s entrepreneurial spirit.

CHANGING THE CULTURE

Halo Heats Christie & Jeff Denomme are Spicing Things Up Anyone who knows Jeff Denomme knows he can’t sit still. “I can’t be normal,” laughs Jeff. “I’m always thinking of the next thing. I can’t help it, I can’t turn it off.” It was that drive that has lead Jeff and his wife Christie to their latest endeavour: Halo Heats, a spicy condiment company. You might recognize Jeff as the creative mind behind The Haunted Zoo art brand, Hot Hive Creative Studio, and the award-winning Papa D’s Hawt Sauce. While his hot sauce was wildly popular, Denomme decided to discontinue the line when he became busy with his branding and design business. “It just wasn’t the perfect time in my life to be doing it.”

Since then, Minoski has continued to hone Papa D’s brand. The couple are also pursuing her skills, creating more and more characters selling it on Amazon. for friends and family and giving them as gifts. “We want to make it so that anyone “I just kept getting better and better at it and anywhere can order,” says Christie. eventually started creating my own patterns.”

“Just Needling Around” Jessica Minoski is Hooked on Crochet

It wasn’t until recently that she decided to turn the pastime into an actual business, “Just Needling Around.” At the encouragement of friends and family, she created an Instagram page and began selling her items on Etsy.

“People always told me, ‘you should sell these!’ but I never went about doing that until recently. With COVID going on, I had more When you think of crochet, you might time to create and it was a way to bring in some think of a warm toque or cozy blanket your extra income.” grandma made you for Christmas. Minoski says the skill came to her fairly The classic hobby is hardly synonymous naturally, as she has always enjoyed a variety of with video game characters like Sonic the creative endeavors. Hedgehog or Super Mario, but local crafter “I’ve always been crafting. Even since I was Jessica Minoski has found a way to bring together pop culture and tradition with a young I would do embroidery, cross-stitch, unique twist. The self-taught crochetier uses different things with paper, sewing…” she her abilities to create one-of-a-kind figures laughs. “Pretty much everything.” ranging from gaming icons and beloved Disney That natural inclination has undoubtedly cartoons to Adult Swim’s Rick & Morty. helped her create more realistic designs, which This ain’t your grandma’s crochet.

she says are still challenging and can take her up to 20 hours to create.

Her interest in the craft began about a “That’s usually what’s most time consuming; decade ago when she saw a crocheted Yoshi that she wanted to make for a friend who was making up the patterns,” explains Minoski. “I’m definitely a perfectionist. I really focus on moving away to university. the fine details to make everything look exactly “I saw this Super Mario character online like the characters.” and I thought it was so cool,” explains Minoski. To browse Minoski’s latest creations, visit her “I didn’t know how to crochet, so I went on YouTube and taught myself how just by on Instagram or justneedlingaround.etsy.com. “One day my wife said, ‘why don’t we get watching videos.” this going again?’ and brought up maybe doing it in a different way.” Jeff admits that Papa D’s “kind of happened by accident” and was something he had really just created for friends and family. When the idea for Halo Heats came about, he and Christie wanted to create something more deliberate that would differentiate them from the slew of other hot sauces on the market.

“We’re trying to give you different flavours that you might have never thought of before in a hot sauce,” says Christie. “We want to be like that weird, cool uncle everyone has,” laughs Jeff. “Instead of regular hot sauce we have a lot of funky flavour combinations like spicy olive, spicy blueberry, hot cherry, spicy chocolate mocha.” Inspired by nature also means no added sugar or artificial ingredients. All Halo Heats products are also gluten-free. “You add enough sugar and anything tastes good,” says Jeff. “Not adding it forces you to get even more creative.” “When we are able to achieve those flavour profiles, we’re very proud,” says Christie. “We really enjoy playing around in the kitchen.” Halo Heats will be available for purchase online at www.haloheats.com and at many of the local retailers who previously carried the THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

CHANGING THE CULTURE

King’s Queen Candle Co. Kaitlyn Sheehan’s Hand-Poured Creations Rein Supreme

Currently, King’s Queen Candle Co. offers Wright’s interest was reignited one day as he eight scents available in three different size saw a man removing a swarm of bees from a options. Sheehan has also added citronella stack of pallets behind his workplace. candles to her lineup for the summer season. “We all sat and watched; it was really interAll of her creations are made from all-nat- esting,” he recalls. “I ended up speaking with ural soy wax. Fragrances are sourced from a the gentleman, who was running a class about supplier in Ontario and are non-toxic, free of bees that weekend.” parabens and phthalates, and skin safe. After attending the seminar, Wright and his

Currently, King’s Queen Candle Co. items For Stoney Point’s Kaitlyn Sheehan, making are available to purchase through her Instagram candles became a way to unwind after a long page or on her website, kingsqueencandle.com. day at work. In the coming months, she plans to branch out “A bubble bath just wasn’t cutting it,” with corporate gifting options and possibly she laughs. selling at local retail locations. Over the past 16 months, Sheehan says she’s tried numerous coping techniques like yoga and meditation, but hand-pouring candles was the hobby that brought her the most relief. “This has been the one that I’ve seemed to really enjoy the most,” she says. “I’ve always been a crafty person.” After a lot of research and reading, she began playing with fragrance combinations and finding the right wicks and vessel sizes. “It was a lot of trial and error. It was kind of a science experiment that piqued my interest.”

Hawksview Honey Dale & Kim Wright Enjoying the Sweet Life in Harrow

wife purchased their first two hives. Now just a few years later, Dale and Kim tend over 105 hives on their three acres of land. Each fullyworking, mature hive produces roughly one hundred pounds of honey each year. In 2019, the couple, together with Dale’s twin sister Donna and her husband Keith, opened Hawksview Honey. The name is a tribute to Dale and Donna’s late father, who loved watching the many hawks that nested at the nearby Holiday Beach conservation area.

In addition to selling the unpasteurized honey they collect from their bees, the family also sells reusable beeswax food wrap, Dale Wright has deep roots in the county. honey-based skincare products, gift baskets, Growing up on a farm, his parents bred racing and supplies for fellow bee hobbyists and horses, while his grandfather lived next store enthusiasts. raising livestock and his uncle farmed the land. “Anything to do with honey,” he says.

“My passion has always been out here in Once Sheehan perfected her formulations, Harrow,” explains Wright. she began gifting her creations to friends and coworkers. As more of her creations stockpiled As an adult, Dale discovered another at home, Sheehan’s fiancé suggested she turn interest that would transform his childhood her hobby into an actual business. home and bring him an even deeper appreci“My fiancé really liked my idea for branding ation for nature: beekeeping.

Beekeeping has been a life changing experience for Wright, with many lessons (and quite a few stings) along the way.

“When I first started I was going to change the whole bee industry and change the world,” laughs Dale. “The most important thing and suggested that I try selling them.” “I saw someone with bees at the Harrow I learned is that bees have been around for millions of years and we just need to let them And so, in early 2021, King’s Queen Fair and became fascinated,” explains Wright. be wild.” Candle Co. (a play on her fiancé’s last name, “At the time, I was living in the city, so it wasn’t possible to really do anything with it.” To learn more about Hawksview Honey, King) was born. log on to hawksviewhoney.com or visit Upon moving back to the family farm in “I sold a few and the demand just started their retail location at 2017 Concession 2017, pursuing the hobby became more feasible. growing,” Sheehan recalls. Road 2 in Harrow.

14th Coffee Co. Warren Rutgers Brews Up a Unique Coffee Experience At The 14th Coffee Co. in Essex, Warren Rutgers specializes in quality coffee blends. However, it’s his unique tour and tasting experience that has captivated both locals and travelers from across the region. “It’s not a café; we are a roastery,” explains Rutgers. “We show our guests how we roast our beans from green to poured out hot.”

CHANGING THE CULTURE

The concept was first dreamed up in 2016 when Rutgers, a real estate agent, was renovating a 100-year old barn on his 2 acre property. During the process, someone suggested that he turn the barn into an AirBnB rental.

After some research, Rutgers purchased a commercial grade Diedrich Roaster, obtained his roasting certification, and began creating a variety of roasts. The 14th Coffee Co. officially opened in June 2017.

The 14th Coffee Co. offers a variety of specialty roasts including their House Dark Roast, Caza Espresso, and Essex Medium. They also currently feature a single origin light Brazil, cold brew, and a popular decaf blend. All are specialty grade, with many that meet organic and fair trade standards. “It’s more of a cultural tasting experience than a traditional cupping,” says Rutgers. “We do three roasts: a French press dark with croissant, a Dutch style medium pour over with stroopwafel, and an affogato (espresso poured over ice cream.)” “We’re the only (coffee) experience in the area,” says Warren. “It’s been very well received. People love chatting with Nathan also; he’s a big part of the business and our guests really enjoy his company.” Rutgers says roasting coffee is a labour of love and is proud to be part of Essex County’s blossoming coffee culture. “We’re growing a lot actually,” Warren says of the local scene. “There are a lot of people drinking terrible coffee, and we’re all working to change that.” The 14th Coffee Co. is located on the 14th Concession in Essex. For more about their coffee, check them out on Facebook or Instagram or visit their AirBnB site to book a tasting experience. D

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ON196_TheDrive_Craft_7.5x4.9_0621.indd 1

55 6/18/21 11:34 AM

PROFILE

Adapting for Innovation

HORIZON ROOFING Horizon Roofing has been known for innovative and high-end roofing systems since 1978 and have fostered their rapport with the community on a foundation of quality, reputation, and unique products.

We were some of the first to tackle unique spaces in this marketplace.

President Mark Popkey and his son-in-law, Vice President Dan Skene say the company was built on a drive for the new opportunities within the industry; Horizon doesn’t shy away from a challenge or a unique take on a restoration.

restore roofing systems. Sometimes a project requires us to think outside the box and our vast array of products allow us to custom design a roof system to suit their unique needs,” he adds.

Horizon’s projects are ever evolving, and they have to be adaptable to the shifts within the industry, as well as open to what the clients are looking for. “It’s not the same thing every day. Even for our crews going out, every roof system is different. But for lack of “We were some of the first to tackle better terms, we’re still installing great roof unique spaces in this marketplace,” systems everyday,” Dan says. Mark says. Years back, he teamed up with He adds that the key to their flexibility Landscape Effects to install some of the first is going onto a site with an open mind. garden roof systems in the Windsor area. There have been times where they’ll meet a They were also the first to do a rubberized customer who has been told to replace their asphalt restoration. “Fast forward to today, roof, when in fact the project is nothing more and we’re taking on even more specialties to than a quick restoration. He and Mark pride

PROFILE

TIME FOR A

FITTING? It’s been awhile.

themselves on honesty, and never want the client to have the burden of a full tear-off if it is not absolutely necessary. This helps to save money for the client, instills trust in them for the long-haul. They’ve maintained some of their clients for a lifetime, as long as 43 years Mark says. “They don’t question us and are confident with our work because they know we do what’s in their best interest. We won’t do a job just to do a job,” he adds. Horizon has been a staple in the community for so long because of their focus on quality and reputation, rather than quantity and production. They’re well known for their higher-grade installs, known as the “Cadillac” of roofing systems, as well as their knowledgeable employees and the dedication they bring to their craft and the company.

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“We treat all of our guys like family. It’s not about the workload of getting the job done quickly; it’s about keeping our employees busy and happy at the same time,” Dan says. Horizon’s installs are backed up by manufacturer warranties of up to 30 years, but their work is backed up by heart, devotion, quality, and family. “With Dan coming on, it’s like the company is moving into its second generation,” Mark says. He brings in the new-age focus on cutting edge technology that keeps us one step ahead of the competition. “And with two grandsons, although they’re young, you never know what the future holds. We could move into a third generation eventually.” To complement their main roofing business, they have a long-established metal division that specializes in commercial metal roofing and wall cladding systems. Along with the siding division, their service and repair division allow them to carry out emergency repairs, specialized roof top equipment installations and custom preventative maintenance services. Their customized Horizon Care program will help to keep your facility in top condition. Giulio Panzera, Service Manager at Horizon, would be more than happy to review your facility and set you up on one of their programs. Horizon Roofing will continue to adapt and maintain their unique applications for all industrial, institutional, and commercial installation and construction needs. They look forward to meeting with you to assess your facility needs. Please call Horizon Roofing at 519-969-5152 today. D 57

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Plan to stay in Windsor Essex this Summer Stay local this summer and explore the great things to see & do in your own backyard – plan a Staycation! Click visitwindsoressex.com/staycation to start planning your summer fun: 1. Check out our downloadable suggested Summer of the Staycation day-trip itineraries 2. Plan your own staycation itinerary using our MyTrip Digital Itinerary Builder 3. Enter your itinerary to WIN your own Staycation Experience valued at $500!*

*Due to the impacts of COVID-19 on the region, some locations may have limited hours or services. Please contact providers prior to visiting. Contest closes on 09/30/2021. Approximate retail value $500. Chances of winning depend on number of entries received. THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

MUSIC

When all of the raw, unheard, undiscovered talents dried up and stopped, this was a rebellion on my part and saying, 'No, we need this. This is our future.'

MAKING US SOUND GOOD FOR FOUR DECADES Walter Riggi discusses his prolific career in music and film. By Devan Mighton Photos by Trevor Booth

Walter Riggi's recording studio is a thing of beauty. Located in St. Clair Beach, his creative lair will force you to stop upon entering, gander, and double take in its immensity. Walls of amplifiers, organs, drums, Fenders, Gibsons, guitar pedals, equalizers, reel-to-reel recorders, and countless widgets and gadgets surround you, and at its heart, like a general's bunker, a massive mixing table and sound booth. Riggi, an award-winning Juno Awards judge, sound engineer, producer, video editor, and video colourist, explains that modern artists want an immersive experience, a wonderland of creative bounty, ripe for the picking. For forty years, Riggi has been in the business of making his clients sound good and look good. In 1982, as a 16-year-old keyboardist, his father purchased his first VCR/camera combo at Krazy Kelly's – an acquisition that changed the trajectory of Riggi's life. Growing up in the eclectic musical tapestry of the 1980s, Riggi's ear for music benefited from radio's varied music variety and fueled his love of keyboards. "I liked listening to '80s pop music at the time, and I loved how diverse music was in the '80s, where you could listen to rock and then right away you were listening to Duran Duran, then you went to Def Leppard."

MUSIC

Having started with an 8-track reel-to-reel recorder, now, with four decades in the field, he has the distinction of having witnessed the digital revolution take hold. "The 4-track exploded the home recording market," states Riggi. "You used to book time at a studio for demos. When the 4-track came out, and the 8-track came out, it exploded the idea of homemade demos – and it's the same thing today. You can still do that same concept, but if you want that extra polish, you either do the full experience in a studio like this, or you bring your tracks in and say, 'Can you make it better?'" Riggi says that digital audio didn't reach the forefront of the industry until Avid Audio brought the revolutionary Pro Tools recording software to the market, which became popular in the mid to late 1990s. However, it took a while for digital to win over the audio recording industry. "Digital was so slow, so difficult to get your head around and to try and make it sound right," he explains. "You'd spend more time trying to record things into the computer, to make it sound decent, than hitting play and recording on tape.

"Anytime you slow down an artist in a studio, you become the bottleneck. The artist falls out of being creative. The mind starts to wander on girls, or homework, or their wife, or their job, touring, whatever it is, and it creates a bad experience in the studio." The creation of software plugins to help with sound editing almost killed the old analog market, but, in recent years, it has seen a resurgence with artists trying to create a more authentic "in the moment" sound. However, digital is still the way to go for THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

capturing those sounds due to the speed at perform in bands or get offered local venues which they can be recalled for use. to continue performing at. "My studio is a true hybrid, whether it is Since 2017, Riggi has been honoured to the digital side or the analog side, that recall- participate as a judge and delegate with the ability is not a problem," he says. Juno Awards. "That was through a mutual When asked about some of his favourite contact in Toronto," he says. "It's funny, the music acts he's worked with, Riggi instantly guy that had the final stamp of acceptance says Mike Sleath, the drummer of Shawn for me with the Juno Awards said, 'Oh boy! You've been around this longer than I've Mendes' touring band. been alive!'" "(Sleath's) level of how he operates is a He says that it has been a privilege to whole different thing," explains Riggi. "Not help choose Canada's top musical acts. As a a lot of flash, or the Neil Peart sort of thing, judge, he helps narrow down who the final but when he's locked down, he's solid. His contestants for the awards are, while, as a hits were methodical, and his explanation delegate, he then helps select the eventual of how things work behind the stage was winner. He has the distinction of judging eye-opening." 15 categories, including Single of the Year, In recent years, the music scene in Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Windsor, once robust, has taken a hit. In Group of the Year. reaction to this, Riggi and a friend, Rob After four decades in the business, Riggi Palombo, started the Raise Your Voice says what keeps his love of music going is singing competition to highlight and the sheer range of it. He notes that one of celebrate local talent. the biggest pet peeves he's encountered with "Raise Your Voice was my rebellion artists is their insistence on using over-recycled against the local scene slowing down for classic songs – in particular, Leonard Cohen's bands and help artists try to come up with Hallelujah. "It's been cut and changed so many ways to get out there," explains Riggi. "There times that it's like, 'I get it, just stop. Please!'"

used to be jam nights. On a Monday night, However, what keeps him enamoured you used to go out, and you were a nobody, with the recording industry are the fresh but you played. If you felt like you needed to voices, the new ideas, and the boundfreshen up your lineup as a band, you could ary-pushing of cutting-edge music and film. go to these jam nights. "It's never the same job twice," says Riggi. "When all of the raw, unheard, undiscov"Whether it's an artist that wants to come ered talents dried up and stopped, this was a rebellion on my part and saying, 'No, we need in and does country or rock, metal, pop, or synthpop, or just a guitar and singing, it's a this. This is our future.'" He says that the contest, which is now in new thing. If it was always the same song, its fifth season, has been highly successful, but just crafted for metal or crafted for pop, and many participants have gone on to I think I'd lost my mind by now." D 61

Food Sensitivities &

your dog

The Hungry Pooch Offers a Holistic Approach to Dealing with Tummy Troubles

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. A variety of factors from changes in bowel movements to skin reactions, food sensitivities cause a wide range of symptoms that often leave worried pet owners struggling to find and treat the source of the problem. “Allergies and food intolerances are probably the top reasons pet owners come to see us,” says Alina Sherman, owner of The Hungry Pooch; a holistic pet store offering the largest selection of raw pet food in Southwestern Ontario. “It’s a big part of why people transition their dog to a natural, raw food diet.” Alina notes that by the time pet owners consult with them, they’ve often already been through the ringer; trying a barrage of allergy medications, steroid shots, and other specialty dog foods in an effort to alleviate symptoms. The knowledgeable team at The Hungry Pooch offers a holistic approach to treating food sensitivities; using a raw food diet and natural remedies custom tailored to the individual dog. “We really want people to know that there are options for treating allergies outside of medication and what is typically seen at a veterinary office,” says Alina. “In many cases, simply switching to a raw diet is all the dog needs. Sometimes the ingredients (like carbohydrates and starches) in dry dog food could be what’s irritating them.”