Southpoint Living - Summer 2023

LIVING

What’s Hot

On The Cover

Tips For A Flawless Base - Katarina Ingratta

Help For Sun Damaged Skin

Fashionably Summer

Dear Kat - Kat Tiessen

Easy Ways To Keep Sand Out Of Your House

Soft Summer

Tips To Successfully Grow Tomatoes

The Best Veggie Sammy - Hope Monaco

Hosting On A Budget - Mara Derikx

Local Fun In The Summertime

My Favourite Things - Jyll Mackie

Two Unique Shops In One

Road Tripping

Keeping Kids Occupied On Long Car Trips

Reclaiming Our Real - Mona George-Taouil

Lifestyle Choices To Reduce Your Cancer Risk

You’re Never Too Old To Learn

Ideal Part-Time Jobs For Retirees

How To Protect Long-Term Cognitive Health

Not Your Average Joe

Summer Ads Of Yesteryear

Kingsville’s Great Estate

Southpoint Living is published by:

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southpointlivingmag.ca

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Melissa Hopper

EDITORIAL

Paul Forman

Mark Ribble

Rylee Wallace

ADVERTISING

Keira Janisse

PRODUCTION

Lori Gouin

Tom Warwick

Cedar Beach, Kingsville

Summer is officially upon us and as we’ve been putting this issue together, it’s been exciting to see all the great events and activities that are available in our community over the next few months.

You will notice something a little different as you read through this issue. We previously published a separate Boomer publication with content geared towards an older demographic. However, moving forward, you will now find that content within these pages of our regular Southpoint Living issues. We’re excited to now share content for a wide range of ages all in one place.

As always, we want to say a big thank you to our advertisers. We hope you will support these great businesses who make it possible for us to bring Southpoint Living to you.

If you have any comments, questions, suggestions or even criticism, please email us:

hello@southpointlivingmag.ca

Sincerely,

Melissa Hopper

Lemon Lime

One of this summer’s hottest colours is a neon hue dubbed lemon lime, a combination of bright yellow and green.

Ruffles

Watch for lots of ruffles, everywhere from apparel to accessories to home décor.

Bamboo products

Sneakers

Sneakers are all the rage these days and anything goes when it comes to what you wear them with, from sweats and jeans to formal gowns and suits.

What’s hot...

One of the main reasons bamboo is so popular is because it’s sustainable and eco-friendly. It’s one of the fastest-growing plants in the world and requires very little water and no pesticides or fertilizers to grow. Bamboo is also highly renewable, as it can be harvested without killing the plant and can regrow to its full size in just a few years. The benefit of bamboo products is that they are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of products, from clothing and furniture to building materials and even food.

Bangs

AI stands for artificial intelligence and in the simplest of terms it means using technology to replace human activity. An example is ChatGPT, a program that uses AI to not only provide answers to questions but that can also write articles and school papers based on the topic, number of words and specific tone requested. In fact, ChaptGPT was used to create one of the write-ups on this page - can you guess which one?

You’ve likely heard of white noise, a background noise many people put on to help them sleep, but brown noise is now gaining in popularity. Brown noise is a lower frequency than white noise and is considered to be a more soothing sound. Listening to brown noise has been found to calm the mind and body, which can make it easier to fall and stay asleep, and it’s also been found to help people concentrate and stay more focused on a task they are working on, as it helps to eliminate other background noises that can be distracting.

Spicy foods

Spicy foods contain capsaicin, a compound that can trigger the release of endorphins in the brain, producing a pleasurable sensation similar to a “runner’s high”. This can create a desire to eat more spicy foods to experience the same feeling again.

Brown noise

From blunt to wispy to side swept, bangs are back!

Tips for a flawless base

Freelance makeup artist and Shoppers Beauty Boutique Cosmetician Katarina Ingratta shares tips for achieving a flawless, natural base.

Katarina Ingratta @makeup__by__kat

The key to a flawless base not only lies in quality makeup products, but is heavily dependent on skin prep. Proper skincare and skin prep is key to achieving the ultimate natural looking base.

Tip #1

Make sure that you are using a hydrating under-eye product routinely. My favourite products to use are the Clinique All About Eyes eye cream and the La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 eye serum. These products ensure that your under-eye area is hydrated prior to makeup application and helps to minimize creasing.

Tip #2

Exfoliate two to three times per week. I love using the Clinique 7 day scrub as it’s so gentle and I have very sensitive skin! The Reversa Exfoliating solution is also a great chemical exfoliant.

Tip #3

The Lise Watier Bio Lift eye patches are perfect to use before makeup application. It helps to tighten the under-eye area while giving an instant, radiant effect. I always recommend these to my brides to use the morning of their wedding.

Tip #4

Prime your lips before lipstick application to ensure they are properly hydrated and help increase the longevity of your lipstick! My favourites to use are the Evio Lip serums or the Clinique Moisture Surge™ Lip Hydro-Plump Treatment.

Tip #5

Prep your skin with a hydrating and dewy primer. I love using a rich moisturizer as my makeup base and the Go with the Glow niacinamide drops from PÜR cosmetics.

SUN DAMAGED SKIN

Though a day of lounging in the backyard or at the beach may make for a perfect summer activity, it’s vital that people take steps to protect their skin from sun damage.

In addition to increasing a person’s risk for skin cancer, overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can produce some painful side effects, including sunburn. Fortunately, there are topical creams and gels that can help treat sun-damaged skin.

Exfoliants:

Exfoliants are designed to stimulate faster skin cell turnover. That can help people with sun-damaged skin, as such damage slows the rate at which skin cells turn over and replace themselves. As a result, exfoliants can help to alleviate the dull, dry skin that often develops after overexposure to the sun.

Vitamin C and other antioxidants: Research has suggested that vitamin C can help to reduce the harm that UV rays do to the skin, though such creams should never be used as a substitute for sunscreen.

Retinoids:

Retinoids are compounds derived from vitamin A that, like exfoliants, also speed up the turnover process of skin cells. Scripps Health notes that retinoids also stimulate collagen production and lighten brown spots.

Fashionably Summer

If you’re looking to build your summer wardrobe, we recommend these trending pieces.

WHITE TANK TOP

Goes with everything and looks great with a summer tan.

FLOPPY HAT

Both fashionable and functional, a floppy hat is the perfect addition to an outfit on a sweltering, sunny summer day.

LINEN SHIRT

Great to throw over a tank top and can also double as a bathing suit cover-up.

WIDE LEG PANTS

The perfect combination of style and comfort.

DENIM SKIRT

Easy to pair with a variety of tops and, just like a linen shirt, it can also double as a bathing suit cover-up.

SLIDES

Easy to throw on, easy to clean and super comfy.

I want to paint my living room white. What white paint is most popular these days?

Paint colour should never be determined by what’s popular but rather what’s in your room and the lighting. All whites are not created equal. I have an entire sample book of just whites. White with green undertones, white with grey, white that looks pink until it’s next to certain wood tones. I could go on and on.

When selecting paint colour, I like to pick something that is in the room: a piece of art, an area rug, or a favourite throw pillow fabric. Since you are looking for a white, try to match one of the lightest tones in the item. If it’s a throw pillow, take your pillow with you to the paint store to match as best you can. But don’t buy the paint yet! Bring that pillow and a few paint swatches home and notice how the colour looks differently in your home than in the store. You have different things in and around your home that affects how light reflects differently than the store does. Still having trouble deciding? Buy some small sample cans and paint a few colours onto poster board. This gives you bigger samples and costs very little compared to making a mistake and having to repaint a room.

What size rug should I use in my bedroom with a king size bed?

If I were able to come to your home for a consultation, I would measure your room and base the size of the rug on the room not the bed. Since I can’t see your room, I’ll explain my process a bit. I like the area rug to anchor the bed and really ground it, giving the bed a good base on which to stand. I recommend installing a rug as large as you can. As a rule, for a king size bed, the rug should be a minimum of 8’ x 10’. If you have room, go bigger! Keep in mind the location of vents and keep your rug clear of them.

Kat Tiessen, Designer Kat & Co. Interiors www.katcointeriors.com

Designer Kat Tiessen shares her expert advice.

I’ve just purchased a property that we’ll be using as a vacation rental. What advice do you have for furnishing and decorating a vacation rental?

Ooo! Vacation rentals are so fun to design! When doing a vacation rental, I like to start with a theme or a story like “Rest & Relax”, “Beach & Repeat”, “Rock n’ Roll”. Think of where this rental is located. Locally, we have a lot of birders visiting the area so I might go with a “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest” vibe and install little bird touches here and there. Nothing overboard.

In a vacation rental, you can have fun with the design, making your place different and memorable. Think throw pillows with birds on them, a bedroom with bird patterned drapery, lamp finials in the shape of birds, hand soap in the shape of a bird. These special touches set your rental apart!

When looking where to invest and where to save, invest in artwork, the mattress and pillows. These items are there for the longevity and really provide an “experience” for your guests. Save on furniture and towels. They will get a lot of wear and tear that will need replacing often.

Guests love to take home momentos from their trips. Have a local printer make playing cards with a photo from your rental on the cards and tie these up with a nice little bow to gift to your renters.

The best piece of advice I can offer is to have your rental professionally photographed! Just like in real estate, it is the photos that sell your rental. It is the experience that brings people back.

A trip to the beach is the quintessential summer activity, but the downside is the excess of sand that often makes its way into vehicles and subsequently homes. And while it might not be possible to come home without any sand, here are a few ways to lessen the amount that you might bring home:

• Use mesh beach bags. Beach bags contain everything from towels to T-shirts to toys. But by the end of a typical beach day they also contain sand, and lots of it. Mesh beach bags won’t accumulate nearly as much sand as closed cloth bags or bags made from other solid materials, and they can be easily shaken once you get to your car, providing one last chance to leave sand behind before going home.

• Rinse off. Many beaches provide community showers outside or adjacent to restrooms so beach-goers can rinse their bodies, toys, chairs and other sandy items before getting in their vehicles and going home. You can also rinse off once again with an outdoor hose at home for one last attempt at preventing the sand from getting into your home.

• Change clothes at the beach. Another way to leave sand behind is to take advantage of restroom facilities at the beach. Change clothes before getting back in the car, and place swimsuits, beach towels and any other clothing and linens into a laundry bag. Once you arrive home, take that laundry bag right to your laundry room and wash clothes immediately.

• Install appropriate floor mats in your vehicle. Many new vehicles now come equipped with two sets of floor mats. One set is made of a thick material like rubber or plastic, and such floor mats are ideal at preventing snow, salt and dirt from making a mess of a vehicle’s floor in winter. Fabric mats are better choices in summer, as they’re typically thin and great at catching small particles like sand. Once you arrive home, a few minutes with a hand vacuum is all it takes to clear the car of sand.

Soft Summer

Do you love the colours of summer? Why not bring the soft summer warmth into your home by updating your wall colours?

Selectone: Sugar Dust (F8F6ED) available at Colour Wheel Home Centre, Kingsville

Benjamin Moore: Etiquette (E4DFD5) available at Truax, Kingsville

Benjamin Moore: Misty Blush (DDCBC3) available at Lakeshore Paint, Leamington

Selectone: Sunset in Italy (F0C484) available at Colour Wheel Home Centre, Kingsville

Sico: Gecko Green (C5A968) available at Lakeshore Paint, Leamington

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While tomatoes are relatively easy to grow, they are prone to certain problems and pests. Knowledge of what to expect when planting tomatoes and how to start off on the right footing can help produce a season’s worth of delicious bounty.

Wait until after the last average frost date

Tomatoes can be grown from seeds outdoors in warm areas, but tomato gardeners often find success starting seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Gradually introduce seedlings to the elements for a few hours each day, increasing the duration of time outside. Then they can be transplanted outdoors when temperatures are consistently over 60°F.

Choose a sunny spot

Tomatoes love to soak up sunlight. Place the plants in a sunny spot so they can thrive.

Space out plants

Experts say to leave anywhere from 24 to 48 inches between plants to accommodate for growth and ensure the plants will not get stunted.

Plant deeply

Tomatoes tend to root along their stems. If transplants are long and lean, dig a trench and lay the stem sideways in the dirt, and then bend the top of the plant upward. Snip off the lower branches and cover with soil up to the first set of leaves. This will produce extra root growth and stronger, more vital plants.

Give the plants support

Tomato cages or stakes can help keep the leaves and fruit from touching the ground, which can cause rot and, eventually, death to the tomato plant.

Lay down a layer of mulch

Tomatoes grow best when the soil is consistently moist. Mulch can help retain moisture from watering and rain. Mulch also will help prevent soil and soilborne diseases from splashing on the leaves and plants when it rains. While you amend the soil, make sure that it drains well and is slightly acidic.

Prune away suckers

Tomatoes produce “suckers,” which are leaves that shoot out from the main stem. Removing these leaves promotes air circulation and keeps the plant’s energy focused on growing fruit.

DID YOU KNOW?

Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been found to aid in healthy vision and lower the risk of stroke.

Sandwiches will always be the superior lunch in my eyes. I love making a veggie sandwich and loading it up with whatever I have on hand. This one is too easy and too good!

You will need:

• 2 pieces of sourdough bread

• Hummus

• Vegan cream cheese

• Microgreen mixture

• Tomato slices

• Red onion

• 1/2 avocado

• Pink salt

Simply layer your sandwich and add as much of each ingredient as your heart desires. Feel free to add more or change it up! I love adding microgreens to just about everything and anything, but my sandwiches especially. They bring so much flavour and it’s a great way to get a bunch of veggies in! They’re so fresh too.

Mara Derikx

joyfulhostess.com

@joyfulhostess

Joyful Hostess Mara

Hosting on a budget

Make your party a hit without spending a fortune!

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to gather with friends for a good time, here are eight ways to throw an epic party without breaking the bank.

ASK GUESTS TO CONTRIBUTE

Whether it’s potluck or BYOB, asking friends to bring a dish or drink to share will not only promote involvement and togetherness but you’ll also have a deliciously diverse spread and keep the budget in check.

OPT FOR SOMETHING SMALLER

Instead of a full course dinner, opt for a cocktail party or simple brunch. This will help save on the cost of ingredients without compromising on the fun and sophistication of your event.

PLAN AHEAD

Create a list of party items you need. This makes it easier to take advantage of sales AND helps you stay focused so you’re not spending money on things you don’t need.

BORROW VS BUY

Instead of splurging on items you may only use once, consider reaching out to friends and family to borrow party essentials like extra chairs, tables, platters, etc.

Why not let your dessert double as the centerpiece? Or maybe it’s birthday hats and party favours? This is a clever way to add to the ambiance of your party without adding to your spending.

UTILIZE NATURE

Mother Nature can be the best decorator. Snip flowers, shrubs or branches from your backyard or garden to create simple, beautiful arrangements. One of my faves are hosta leaves in simple bud vases or spring branches in urns.

SHOP WHAT’S IN SEASON

This helps your money go farther, not just when it comes to florals but it also applies to your menu items.

USE E-INVITES

There are plenty of companies you can use to send online invitations. When compared with traditional paper invites, not only will you save on paper and postage, but many of these e-invites have added functions like the ability to add registry info, directions, send reminders etc.

BONUS TIP

Spend intentionally! Focus on one or two WOW factors (e.g. a balloon arch at the entrance, customized party favours, a special bottle of champagne) and keep the rest of your party elements simple.

Local fun in the summertime!

The following residents shared their favourite local summer activities.

Craig Marentette and Rachael Watson

We love the myriad of outdoor summer activities that Essex County has to offer! One of our favourite things to do is to take our camp stove to conservation areas or parks (such as Holiday Beach, Point Pelee, and Hillman Marsh) and cook breakfast outdoors. We also enjoy going for walks on local trails like Kennedy Woods and Lakeside Park and going for canoe rides in Cedar Creek.

During the summer, when I’m not working around my property, I spend most of my free time hiking and foraging through the forests of Windsor-Essex. Some of my favorite spots include Kennedy Woods in Kingsville, Cedar Creek Conservation Area in Essex, and Black Oak Heritage Park in Windsor. My dog, Loki, always comes along, too.

Shayna and Andrew LeBlanc

Our typical summer day usually consists of grabbing a local coffee, playing a round at Kingsville Golf and Country Club, meeting up with friends/family and supporting local for dinner and drinks in the evening! We also love visiting local beaches and taking our puppy for walks into the beautiful town of Kingsville.

We have always enjoyed visiting Pelee Island and with the new addition to our family it has made this summer tradition even more special. It’s nice to unwind, enjoying the beaches and nature trails in an area that feels so much further away than it actually is. Bike trips with the kid trailer on County Road 50 and the Greenway to local wineries and breweries is another favourite summer activity. We are also looking forward to our little one’s first canoe on Cedar Creek or Point Pelee Marsh.

I live in Kingsville, so it’s no surprise I love going to our local restaurants! I feel that it’s a huge bonus to where we live. I also love heading to Cedar Beach with friends for a few games of volleyball and playing tennis at the Kingsville Tennis Club!

Meghan Woodruff, Peter Riediger & Eleanor Riediger

Grant Munroe

PHOTO BY: CarrieJPhotographer

Tyler Knight

A few of our favourites involve food and drink and the great outdoors, of course! We never skip our weekend breakfast dates, especially when it’s sourced locally. Saturdays are for brunching at eclectic love and Sundays are for The Grove! And we can’t forget the local coffee shops, wineries and breweries. We try to spend as much time outside as we can. You can find us working in the garden, visiting Point Pelee National Park, paddling out on the water or attending outdoor festivals with live music like Hogs for Hospice!

Andrea Stockwell

My ideal local summer day would consist of going out for coffee and breakfast at the Beach House Grill with my boyfriend to start the day! The afternoon involves spending time with my mom and friends visiting different local wineries. Some of our favourites have been Pelee Island Winery, North 42 Degrees Estate Winery, Oxley Estate Winery and Paglione Estate Winery, but the list could go on! This amazing day would end with a sunset paddle board session at Point Pelee and, of course ice cream right across the street to end the night.

Derek, Laurie, Maverick and Calleigh Bilokraly

Summertime is filled with fun outdoor activities for our family! We’re often on the bikes, and Point Pelee National Park, Wheatley Provincial Park and Two Creeks Conservation Area offer everything from car-free paved surfaces to technical mountain bike trails. When it’s time to cool down, the kids are always ready to jump into Lake Erie to paddle board. Or to relax, the summer concert series at Seacliff Park Amphitheatre is a must.

According to Trip Advisor, here are some of the most popular destinations in each community.

KINGSVILLE

• Lakeside Park

• Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary

• Cedar Creek Conservation Area

• Cedar Beach

LEAMINGTON

• Point Pelee National Park

• Lakeside Marina

• Seacliff Park

• Hillman Marsh Conservation Area

WHEATLEY

• Two Creeks Conservation Area

• Wheatley Provincial Park

• Kopegaron Woods

Mackenzie Kelly and Mitch Neufeld

Thrifting

“There is nothing better than finding treasures while thrifting. My weakness is a good antique crock or vessel.”

Faux Florals

“While I love fresh cut flowers, I love faux stems that last forever and can be used season after season. My latest find is a faux lavender from Ikea that I love so much!”

My Favourite Things

Creating functional spaces in our home

“We have been renovating our 1970s side-split for seven years and while it can be exhausting, it is also so rewarding making our home beautiful and functional for our growing family.”

Building/repurposing Furniture

“So often I fall in love with furniture that is either one-of-a-kind antique or out of my price range. I love building things - like the dining table I built with my dad from an $8,000 inspiration table or my most recent kitchenette island table that was repurposed from an old coffee table.”

Jyll Mackie HomeandDIYCreator

Camping

“When we aren’t working on projects around the house, we love going on adventures in our 1978 Trillium trailer - it might be a tight squeeze when baby #3 arrives but we will make it work!”

Our Pool

“Last summer we put in a pool and there is nothing better than watching our girls, 3 and 5, learning to swim and living their best life.”

A new store in Kingsville is catching the eye of many locals since they opened a few months ago.

Karen Couch has opened Shall We Knit at 17 Main Street West and inside her shop is another shop that belongs to her daughter, Tara Bendig, called The Bendig Company.

Karen operated Shall We Knit In Waterloo for the past 15 years, enjoying success there before relocating to Kingsville and opening here.

For Karen, her love of knitting goes back for years and she’s pleased to offer specialty yarns and needles, and will be offering knitting classes this fall.

“I always wanted to have a boutique type shop,” she said.

Karen specializes in mostly natural fibres and carries the Songbird line of hand-dyed yarns.

As for Tara, she describes her venture into business as a ‘labour of love’ — a dream come true that has come from the loss of her wife, Tina, last fall.

She says Kingsville has welcomed both her and her mom with open arms and they both find that people come in to look at one of their shops and end up browsing both of them.

Tara, a proud member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, offers eclectic gifts at The Bendig Company like handbags, jewelry, artist-created clocks, fun games, stickers, buttons and cards and a lot more.

“It’s all very eclectic,” says Tara. “You’ll find something nerdy for your brother-in-law.”

Tara Bendig and Karen Couch

Cities

KALAMAZOO, MI

Located in southern Michigan, Kalamazoo is known for its countless points of interest. Visit the Kalamazoo Valley Museum for a dose of science, technology, history. Check out the Institute of Arts, or pop by the Nature Center. This city truly has something to offer to everyone.

COLUMBUS, OH

If you’re looking to visit a city with a young and hip vibe, Columbus, Ohio is calling your name! At night, take your pick from over 20 bars on High Street, and in the morning, refuel your body with fresh produce and foods found at North Market downtown.

Outdoorsy

TUNNEL PARK, HOLLAND, MI

Tunnel Park is a stunning 22-acre park that sits along the shores of Lake Michigan, making it perfect for swimming, family picnics and a few games of beach volleyball.

MONO CLIFFS PROVINCIAL PARK, ON

Hiking, scenic views, cliffs and nature…need we say more? Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is home to eight trails of varying distances, so whether you’re travelling as a novice hiker or looking for something a little more challenging, you’ll find a trail for you. Looking for an even bigger challenge? Consider hiking any section of The Bruce Trail that sprawls over 900km of Southern Ontario.

Small Towns

BAYFIELD, ON

Bayfield is the perfect small-town getaway for those seeking beauty and comfort. The historical buildings of Main St. are now home to independently owned shops, artisan stores, restaurants, cafés and inns, while the beach welcomes you for a day on the water and sunsets you won’t want to miss.

ELORA, ON

Prepare to be charmed by Elora, Ontario. Not only does this small town have amazing small shops and restaurants, but it’s also the home to the stunning blue-green waters of a limestone quarry. Shopping, swimming, dining, and accommodations - Elora checks off all the boxes.

Feels like Paradise

PUT-IN-BAY, OH

Ready to hit an island that feels tropical but is closer to home? Put-in-Bay is one of the best destinations around for those looking for swim-up bars and great music. Whether you’re there for a family weekend or a bachelorette party, let the energy of this island sink in and enjoy the water, the shopping, the eating and the pool parties.

PORT DOVER, ON

Palm trees in Ontario? Yes, please! Port Dover is one of the few places in Ontario where you can experience beautiful beaches lined with palm trees. We recommend this dreamy spot for days when you simply want to catch some rays and put your toes in the sand.

Elora, ON

Photo by Jill Atherton

Columbus, OH

Photo by Kristen Drew Bayfield, ON

Photo by Rachael Watson

Bored children calling out from the backseat can try any parent’s patience. Thankfully, parents can utilize these four strategies to keep kids occupied on long car trips.

1. Take out the tablet. Tablets can be loaded with all sorts of entertainment, from e-books to movies to interactive activities to school lessons. Time restrictions on electronics may be a part of life at home, but parents can relax those rules on the road to ensure kids stay occupied until the family arrives at its destination.

2. Encourage kids to scrapbook the trip. If a road trip involves visiting multiple destinations, parents can encourage kids to spend some time scrapbooking their experiences in the backseat. Kids can write about their activities and paste mementos from the trip into their book.

3. Transform the backseat into a play area. Transforming the backseat into a play area can ensure kids have plenty of things to do and less time to dwell on how long it’s taking to get from point A to point B. Avoid packing anything that can be turned into a projectile but be sure to include some books, puzzles, dolls/action figures and handheld games.

4. Time the trip well.

Of course, kids don’t necessarily need to be actively engaged in an activity in order to be occupied during a road trip. If possible, depart in the wee hours of the morning, as it will usually mean you’ll avoid heavy traffic and it could also result in kids falling back asleep, cutting down on the amount of time needed to keep them entertained.

Authentic LEBANESE KITCHEN

Reclaiming our REAL

by Mona George-Taouil

In an age of magical filters, artificial intelligence and the like, it is becoming increasingly more difficult to find the REAL of anything and anybody for that matter. Who are we, what do we really look like, what can we really do, and what and who do we really need to thrive and live our best lives?

I live by the motto ‘look good, feel good, do good’. It has been my steadfast principle for most of my life and has helped shape my outlook on life and work in that to really feel good, I need to ensure I am at my best from the inside out. Proper self care and hard work go hand in hand with this seemingly shallow motto but it’s not shallow; I’d argue it’s deep. Deep in its potential and in its perspective to impact self and others greatly.

However, what’s important to remember is that in the quest to look our best and then feel our best, it’s vital to acknowledge and accept what is actually the REAL OF OUR LIVES AND BODIES AND SELVES. The realness should not always be camoflauged, contoured, sheltered, and hidden. Rather, it could be welcomed, respected and embraced.

You see, at times the REAL of our lives has a purpose. The real of our bodies, our work, our looks, OUR WORDS, does so much FOR US RATHER THAN TO US.

• It teaches, it inspires, it corrects, it interrupts, it reminds AND it anchors us back to the truest version of ourselves. Moreover, the real life magic happens when you find a friend, a group, a partner, a colleague, a family, or a chosen family for that matter, who embraces your REAL for all it is without feeling the need or want to change or fix it. It’s okay to sit in the muck of what’s REAL until you’re ready to move forward.

• The real friend is the one who, without batting an eye, bends down to fasten your stiletto strap because you’re not as agile as you used to be and we all need a little lift once in awhile.

• The real family is the one who forgives and forgets the things you might have said in anger, frustration and desperation and moves you and itself along in love and belonging.

• The real group is the one who finds you, supports you, cheers you up and on, feeds you when you can’t do it for yourself, when you’re struggling and when you’re in need without even having to send an SOS.

• The real colleagues are the ones who speak good of your name even when you are not in the room, who support you both in public and in private, and who genuinely want the best for you knowing there’s enough sun for everyone.

• The real partners are those who know life ebbs and flows and so do you, your dreams, your likes and dislikes, but still maintains its steadfast commitment to you, to them, the shared goal and the shared WHY.

• The real gal pals are those who welcome, post, tag, the filtered, made up, polished version of ourselves but also looks for, accepts, welcomes and laughs and cries with the dry shampooed gym hair, tights wearing, food and life splattered, ponytail sporting, messy, real version too.

In life and in love and in work and in all times and spaces: Keep moving forward one step at a time (yes, even when you feel you have legit stepped into quicksand). Strive to better yourself - it was never about them anyway. Share your light with others; don’t deprive anyone of the gift of YOU. Put your best self forward yes, but let your REAL be itself. Let it loose. Let go of those who don’t like it because they aren’t the ones for you. Let it teach, let it remind, inspire, comfort, and ignite the best and authentic YOU. Allow it to bring into your life other REAL souls who are more than happy and willing to throw you a rope and pull you out of life’s quicksand as needed and prescribed by the REAL you!

7 lifestyle choices to REDUCE YOUR CANCER RISK

Avoid tobacco

Not only does smoking cause between 80 and 90 percent of lung cancer deaths, it also contributes to many other forms of the disease including cancers of the pancreas, liver, bladder, and cervix. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke can reduce cancer risk.

Exercise regularly

Physical activity can lower estrogen levels, reduce levels of insulin in the blood, help a person lose weight, and reduce inflammation - all factors that contribute to the formation of cancer.

Eat healthy foods

Research has found certain minerals, vitamins and phytochemicals can produce anti-cancer effects. Many foods, namely fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can boost health and contribute to lower cancer risk.

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol regularly increases the risk of cancers to the mouth, voice box and throat. Furthermore, alcohol consumption is a primary risk factor for liver cancer. By limiting alcohol consumption, individuals can reduce their cancer risk.

Be cautious of Hepatitis C

Individuals should avoid behaviors that put them at risk of contracting Hepatitis C, which causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis C can be contracted by receiving a piercing or tattoo in an unsanitary environment, through injecting or inhaling illicit drugs, through unsafe sex, or if you are a healthcare worker exposed to infected blood through an accidental needle prick.

Apply sunscreen

Protect the skin from exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun and tanning beds, as skin cancer is one of the most common forms of the disease. Simply reducing exposure can help prevent skin cancers and other damage. This includes wearing wide-brimmed hats, applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wearing sun-protective clothing.

Get enough sleep

The importance of sleep to overall health is easily overlooked. Sleep deprivation can lead to harmful behaviors, such as overeating, drinking too much alcohol or being too tired to exercise, each of which increases cancer risk.

The old adage applies in many instances, as we are all capable of learning something new — regardless of our age.

We thought we’d reach out to the man behind ElderCollege, Director Lloyd Brown-John, who is a Professor Emeritus for the Department of Political Science at the University of Windsor, and ask some questions about ElderCollege.

What is ElderCollege and when did it begin?

ElderCollege exists to serve the “aged 55 & better” community with short, low-cost and diverse educational courses. ElderCollege offers courses in every community in Windsor, Essex and often in Kent County. The name was borrowed from then Capilano College in North Vancouver, B.C. ElderCollege first offered courses in Autumn 2011. ElderCollege operates from and under the auspices of, Canterbury College at the University of Windsor. Canterbury supports and hosts ElderCollege’s “world headquarters”. All courses are offered by volunteers and can cover almost any subject or topic.

Who can register and what is the cost involved?

Technically ElderCollege is designed for those who are retired or who are approaching retirement. Thus registration for courses which occurs twice a year (two semesters) is open to anybody seeking a little mind stimulation. There is an annual membership fee of $15 which does entitle members to enjoy some free courses. Otherwise, course fees, which have remained the same since 2011, run from $25 for a one session (two hours) course to $45 for longer multi-session courses. There is also a “Buffet Course option” which allows a person to register in up to 10 courses for $155.

What can people hope to learn and take away from ElderCollege?

Courses generally include a social component, that is a mid-session break for beverages, biscuits and conversation. Social interaction is vital for many seniors so one purpose of ElderCollege is to ensure an opportunity for social contact. Educationally, and as courses are so diverse from history to travel to hands on activities, much of what one takes away depends upon one’s interests and level of interest. Practical learning as well as interest learning – from how seniors may exercise to prevent falls to the history of the Spanish flu or the Mennonite community or running booze across the border. Learning is enriched by diversity of opportunity.

Are classes online, classroom or both?

Because of COVID, we were forced to employ Zoom as a platform for online courses. Some courses will continue to be delivered by persons in distant locations. For example, our current “Visit an Ontario Museum” series will be offered online as the only means available. Often we offer a course both in-class and online because we’ve attracted course attendees from across Ontario, Canada and the USA. We even had one course participant from Cairo, Egypt. We also have a capacity to live-stream courses although that is now rare due to our support personnel shortage. In-class courses are still preferred as is our printed course catalogue because there is comfort in socializing with others and in holding a real printed catalogue of courses in hand to read and think about.

What are some of the more unique courses that you’ve offered over the years?

Over our almost 14 years we’ve had some really fascinating courses including learning to canoe, searching for fossils, lawn bowling, bus tour courses to unique places in Elgin and Bruce counties and the USA, a history of the Spanish flu just before Covid, explorations of Pelee Island, how Leamington is governed, red wines of the southern hemisphere, making and serving pasta, discovering and exhuming the remains of Essex County’s first Jewish settler, the history of the Tepperman family, vanished villages of Essex County and what happens to your skin as you age. A couple of our courses were expanded into a booklet, “Digital Safety for the Non-Tech Savy”, a highly regarded and well received discussion of computer safety written for seniors. ElderCollege is always interested in those with hobbies, interests or professions which they may wish to share as a course for ElderCollege. We are always in search of persons willing to volunteer to offer a course that reflects their interests. Again, that scope includes every community in Essex and Kent counties.

How do we sign up?

Course registration is always open as long as there are still courses to be offered. Our Autumn 2023 semester registration will open in late September for courses through early December. Courses for the Autumn Semester 2023 will be listed both on our website eldercollege.ca and in our printed course catalogue. You can also register for courses by telephone or ask for a course catalogue when they are available by calling: ElderCollege’s program manager Catherine Fettes, 519253-3000 Extension 4901. Or drop Catherine an email: fettesc@uwindsor.ca. And after that, we’ll be working on new courses for Spring 2024.

Ideal part-time jobs for retirees

Many adults count down the days until retirement so they can enjoy more time for recreation, travel or whatever it is they aspire to do. However, some retirees find it is not ideal to be entirely free from the responsibility of working as they may miss the way problem-solving on the job stimulates the brain or the opportunities to socialize while working.

Here’s a look at some part-time positions that could be a good fit for older adults reentering the workforce.

Retail sales associate

Working in retail opens seniors up to a wide array of responsibilities and scenarios. Jobs may include greeting customers, making sales, putting out inventory and helping customers select merchandise.

Consultant

Retirees who loved their job but wanted to spend less time doing it can return as consultants. It’s a great way to share expertise and experience without making a full-time commitment, and many find they can make more per hour as a consultant than they did working full time.

School positions

Retirees may want to consider jobs working in schools or in related capacities. Driving a school bus is an option if people are willing to undergo the proper training and licensing to operate this type of vehicle. Seniors also may consider working as lunchroom aides or lunch service providers, crossing guards, substitute teachers, and paraprofessionals. School employees will only work a few hours during the day. They’ll also enjoy many holidays off as well as summer vacations.

How to protect long-term cognitive health

Cognitive health is not something to take for granted. Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think, learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Br ain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

• cognitive health, which is how well you think, learn and remember

• motor function, or how you make and control movements

• tactile function, which is how you feel sensations

• emotional function, or how emotions are interpreted and responded to.

Individuals can safeguard brain health - particularly cognitive health - by taking these steps:

Be more health-conscious. Working with doctors, individuals can put their health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure. All chronic conditions cause long-term repercussions, but observational studies show having high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain. Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress. Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well. Make every stride to reduce stress, whether that involves taking vacations, meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D. Vitamin D is linked to a host of health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Spend time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help.

Pay attention to hearing loss. Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

Not Your Average Joe

The sweet taste of a warm, cinnamon-sugared donut, a squeal of glee as a baby goat jumps up on a child feeding it, the fist pump while recording a hole in one on the mini-golf course, or the awe of rows upon rows of multi-coloured tropical plants one sees while buying a gift for a loved one - these are just a few of the memories that readers may have had on a visit to Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens in Ruthven.

This oasis in our community was started from scratch, seed by seed, by the hard working Colasanti family and continues to evolve and delight locals and tourists to this day. A familiar face that has been very visible for decades as this business has grown has been that of beanie-sporting Joe Colasanti.

Joe was born in Detroit in 1933, the first child of four raised by his father Alex (who emigrated to Canada from Ceprano, Italy) and his mother Emma who decided to put their roots down on a 20-acre farm on the 3rd Concession in Ruthven. Joe grew up working tirelessly on the family farm along with siblings Ron, Alex Jr. (Sonny) and Anna Marie. One of the area’s first fruit and vegetable stands, it has blossomed into a multimillion dollar business.

Barb Fuller came into Joe’s life and the two were married in 1955, raising four children — Terry, Debbie, Michael and Joanne — in a small apartment above the boiler room on the family farm. Barb and Joe had a great partnership until her passing in 2008. Joe’s life has been enriched with a growing family that includes eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren with a seventh on the way.

Taking the reins from his dad in the early 1980s, Joe was a key part in the expansion of the business as Colasanti’s began to have a larger food/banquet presence, more animal exhibits, rides for the kids and connections to a wide variety of charities.

In recent years, the torch was again passed as Joe’s children began to oversee the day-to-day operations and his grandchildren are also emerging to play a larger part in the operations of the farm. While his role has been reduced, this vibrant senior punches in on a daily basis to help out with deliveries, works in the produce department of the operation, and continues to be the friendly face that so many look forward to seeing on an outing to this gem of a destination.

with Joe Colasanti Q & A

You have been blessed to have had the opportunity to work side by side with your mother, father, wife, children and grandchildren over the past decades. Describe your experience working with these family members.

Working with my mom and dad was many years ago, back in the ’40s. In those days you enjoyed working and if you didn’t work, you didn’t eat. My parents were good to us and when they said to go out to work, we did. My wife was a good, hard worker on the farm. My kids would come out with us at six in the morning to help out in the fields. Even now, I like working with my kids. They have been very receptive to the way we did things in the past. A lot of new stuff has come along and now I have to be receptive to follow in their footsteps. My grandchildren Lee and Ashley work on the farm. They are good to work with and come through whenever I ask for something.

As a very successful entrepreneur, what part of the Colasanti’s business has brought you the most joy and what part poses or posed a challenge for you?

What I enjoy about this business is that you can talk to people and teach them things and they in turn teach you too. It keeps your mind working. The challenges today are about all the rules and regulations. We can’t do things like we did in the old days. I think working in the old days was more fun, now it is regimented, and you have to watch what you do.

You’ve been involved in numerous charity events and endeavours over the years. Where does this giving spirit come from and describe the satisfaction that you get from this part of your life?

I guess I learned from my parents how to give and how to help other people. I remember in 1946 that we dug a deep well and had some of the best water in the country. The neighbours would come and fill their tanks up with water. They would offer my dad money and he said, “ No, God has given me this water and I just want to pass it on”. I find that doing good for other people eventually comes back to you in one way or another, whether it’s in good fortune or good health.

You will hit the age of 90 years young this coming September. What keeps you motivated to work a daily shift at Colasanti’s even to this day?

It’s something that I’ve been doing for years and it is hard to break away from it. People say why don’t you just retire and walk away. It is something that I helped to start and nurture with my parents, now it’s with my kids and grandkids. For some reason, I have this thing inside me that says I have to go out and see what’s going on or I have to look after something. I look after all of the produce, run errands and make some deliveries. I enjoy the deliveries mostly because I run into people at their house that I haven’t seen in 20 years. It’s a great experience to catch up with people.

You set an example of how one can be active in their senior years. What advice would you give to seniors who are looking for a purpose or passion in their lives?

Every day that goes by, I run into people that say they are ‘retired’. I ask them what they are doing now and they say ‘nothing’. I tell them that if they don’t start doing something, they won’t be here very long. Your body is used to working and then you stop working and your body is going to say that we don’t need this or that. The brain starts shutting down and it needs to be kept active every day, even just a part-time job for two days a week. You have to have a purpose when you wake up in the morning, without purpose you end up going backwards. I think that part of the reason that I’m still here is because I have something to get up for each morning. I have family and I have work to do

SUMMER ADS OF YESTERYEAR

Leamington Post - August 9, 1923

Leamington Post - July 16, 1942

Leamington

Kingsville’s Great Estate

The Estate of Health property, featured on the cover of this issue, dates back to the 1800s.

It all started with Colonel James King, founder of Kingsville, who journeyed his way to the area with his wife, Sarah Nightingale, and her two sons. Originally from Devonshire, England, the family first travelled to Canada in 1826, landing in Montreal. Over the following nine years, epidemics of cholera and fever forced them to relocate, ultimately finding themselves in a place that was then known as Gosfield Township, Upper Canada.

Col. King built a small shanty north of town for his family to stay in over the winter, but when the spring came, they couldn’t say goodbye to the beauty of the area. Over the next couple of years, King and his wife expanded their shanty and had three children, James, Ellen and Alfred.

In the coming years, King would earn the title Lieutenant Colonel during the Upper Canada Rebellion of 183738. King became a very important figure in the growing community and welcomed his youngest son, Sidney.

King would lead settlers in building a schoolhouse and also assisted in the building of St. John’s Anglican Church. He would lay out the plan for the village, become a Notary Public, a clerk of the Division Court, a Collector of Customs, an insurance agent, and the Superintendent of Schools for Gosfield. In 1852, the community of 100 people named the village Kingsville in his honour.

In 1856, King began building a unique octagonal house on six acres of land on what we now know as Mill Street West. This beautiful two-story home, with windows in all directions and covered veranda all around, would become his family’s final home.

The building became more than just the King family home, though. Tales tell stories of King’s generous hospitality to those needing shelter. Whether they were American Civil War survivors or weary travellers, they were always welcome at the great Kingsholme Estate.

Since it was built, ownership of the home has exchanged hands through generations of the King family, including Col. King’s youngest son, Dr. Sidney Arthur King, and his daughter, Laura, who lived there until 1963.

After over 100 years in the family, and almost 60 years of being loved by local residents, the estate was purchased in 2019 by Jim and Heather Scott, and their daughter Jordan Scott-Trepanier, who developed the property into the bustling Estate of Health Wellness Centre and Yoga Studio.

Kingsholme Estate in 1858

JULY AUGUST

1 Almost Famous Band

Opener: Walkerville Collegiate Rock Band

Sunset Amphitheatre, Seacliff Park

1 The Mojo Wailers Wheatley Arena

2 The Devitos

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

7 Kristopher and Jim

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

9 Courtney Wells Band

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

14 Dawn and Elvis

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

16 British Beat 66

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

21 Back 2 Back

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

22 Classic Albums Live Opener: Fresh Breath

Sunset Amphitheatre, Seacliff Park

23 Vox Vinyl

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

28 Fresh Breath

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

29 Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy

Opener: Mary Frances Leahy

Sunset Amphitheatre, Seacliff Park

30 Fresh Breath

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

4 Scott Stapp

Opener: Honeymoon Suite Hogs For Hospice

Sunset Amphitheatre, Seacliff Park

5 Jake Owen

Opener: A Thousand Horses Hogs For Hospice

Sunset Amphitheatre, Seacliff Park

6 Jen Knight Band

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

11 Justin Latam

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

11- 13 Greenway Jam Music Festival

Numerous performers and entertainers including Paul Langlois from the Tragically Hip, Joel Plaskett, The Sadies and OKAN. Mettawas Park, Kingsville

13 South River Slim

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

20 The Ashley Lynn Experience

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

25 Jen Knight Band

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

27 Paying Cash

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

SEPTEMBER

1 Lysette and Tyler

Lakeside Marina Patio, Leamington

2 The S’Aints

Sunset Amphitheatre, Seacliff Park

3 Buck Twenty

Two Creeks Conservation Area, Wheatley

Hogs For Hospice Greenway Jam

Two Creeks Conservation Area

Summer Bucket List

Spend the afternoon at a winery

Go for a bike ride on the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail

Enjoy an outdoor concert

Take a drive along County Road 50

Go stand-up paddle boarding

Visit Pelee Island

Try a new local beer

Have a picnic

Purchase produce from a roadside stand

Cool off at a splashpad

Walk along the boardwalk at Point Pelee National Park

Read a book from the library

Spend the day at a local beach

Attend a festival

Play a round of golf

Watch the sunset over Lake Erie

MADE LOCAL

We’re in awe of the many talented people in our community and the incredible things they’re doing. Check out these local makers we’ve discovered through Instagram.

Morning Dew Farms

Who: Melissa Gagnon

Jenna Jones Art

Who: Jenna Jones

Let Me Bead

Who: Paige Kraus

What: Wreaths, flowers & workshops

Where:Wheatley @morningdewfarms

Carolinia Cider Co.

Who: Janelle Balsillie & Megan Balsillie

What: Hand drawn pencil sketches

Where:Kingsville @jenna_joness

Danah Grace Art

Who: Danah Grace

What: Baby teething supplies

Where:Kingsville @let_me_bead

William Norman Collection

Who: Kayla Faucher

What: Hard cider

Where:Harrow @caroliniaciderco

What: Art

Where:Kingsville @danahgraceart

What: Handmade home décor

Where:Cottam @williamnormancollection