The Converged Citizen - April 14, 2017 by Larry Forsyth

www.themediaplex.com

*Volume XII Issue 17 *April 14, 2017

The Power Of The Future

Inside

Spay/neuter voucher program six years strong Amos Johnson Converged Citizen Staff

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The spay and neuter voucher program is still in effect in Windsor after a successful five-year history of helping pet owners take the edge off the costs. This program is designed to help people with a low income have their pets spayed and neutered. Doing so can prevent their pets from having unwanted pregnancies and decrease the rate of homeless animals.

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Photo by Amos Johnson Executive Director for the Humane Society, Melanie Coulter comforts one of the cats at the Humane Society in Windsor.

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Easter Seals ambassador an inspiration for those with disabilities

Kaitlynn Kenney Converged Citizen Staff

A small town girl is helping other members of Easter Seals overcome their insecurities. The 35th Annual Easter Seals Telethon was held at Central Park Athletics on April 2, 2017 to raise funds providing services for children and adults with disabilities. This year, the telethon raised more than $200,000 in six hours. The funds are used for assistance with purchasing

Index

equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and communication devices. Other services include a summer camp experience at Easter Seals camps and scholarships. Lakeshore resident Morgan Bennett Murphy, 18-year-old Easter Seals ambassador, has been involved with the organization since she was seven. Murphy published a YouTube video in June titled

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“This is my story” where she described her journey as a young person with a disability. “I have scoliosis and three fingers on each hand. I also have shortened and rotated forearms. We don't have a diagnosis for that yet and we don't think we will get one,” said Murphy. “Because of

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Weather Friday, April 14, 2017 High: 17 °C Low: 9°C Weather provided by The Weather Network

Entertainment

12 Sports Quote of the Day

If you want to be a photographer, first leave home. -Steve McCurry

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APRIL 14, 2017

ONVERGED CITIZEN

Windsor vs. ever ybody Grace Bauer Converged Citizen Staff

Windsor’s music scene is changing and competition from across the river may be the reason. Every day, thousands of Windsorites cross the border to work, shop, dine and attend concerts in Detroit. According to Statistics Canada, about three-quarters of Canadians live within 160 kilometres of the Canada–U.S. border. Music and entertainment in Windsor is rising to the competition from its neighbouring city. From Motown in the early 50s to modern day rap, Detroit's rich music history has made it one of the top music cities in the United States, but can Windsor compare? Phog Lounge is located on University Avenue in downtown Windsor and has been open for more than 13 years. Tom Lucier, owner and operator of Phog Lounge, said

FROM SPAY PAGE 1 Melanie Coulter is the executive director of the Windsor Humane Society and said their clinic has fixed around 24, 000 animals since its opening. “Once someone gets a vouch-

while he thinks Detroit is a weird city, Windsorites are influenced by it in many ways. “We are unmistakably, unavoidably, influenced [by Detroit] but I don’t know if it’s good or bad,” said Lucier. “Everything is happening there. All the better bands, bigger bands, the names we recognize are all pretty much trying to play Detroit, of course they influence us.” Phog provides an atmosphere for performers who want to showcase their talent. “If you have your own music and you want to play it we will put you on stage in some way shape or form. I participate in that community as best I can,” said Lucier. “People [in Windsor] who book live music, we are all contributing in different ways. For me, I give a stage, a space and an opportunity for people who want to play music and make money.” Millar Hill, 21, is a Windsorite who frequents Detroit. He goes to explore different restaurants, music events, art galleries and differ-

ent neighbourhoods. “I love Windsor, I have nothing against Windsor but I’m kind of bored of it,” said Hill. “It’s the same thing - same sort of music. There is so much more in Detroit to explore that I haven’t seen and I’ve been over there a lot.” Hill said he thinks Windsor is starting to pick up on what Detroit is doing and there is a lot of hype about Detroit.

Downing. City council’s budget for the program this year was $30,000 with each voucher being valued at $75. Susan Monteleone is a holistic animal practitioner who has been breeding Sphynx cats for more than 20 years

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“At our clinic, the voucher would cover the entire cost of surgeries.” -Melanie Coulter er, they would bring it into a participating clinic with their animal. At our clinic, the voucher would cover the entire cost of surgeries,” said Coulter. The corporate policy coordinator for the City of Windsor is impressed with what the program has accomplished over the five years. “There has been over 4,000 vouchers issued and the rate of usage over that period is about 80 per cent,” said Ken

and supports the city’s program. “I sell (Sphynx) kittens, all are spayed or neutered before going to new homes. [The program] is an excellent idea, spay and neuter is most effective,” said Monteleone. According to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, clinics practicing the spay and neuter procedure has reduced the rate of shelter admissions and euthanasia by up to 70 per cent.

“I think that Windsor would benefit from Detroit,” said Hill. “We have the space to bring in big musicians and bands. It would bring a lot of money to our city. If they are doing a show in Detroit, why can’t they do one in Windsor? It would generate more traffic to Windsor.” In light of so many Windsorites exploring Detroit, Lucier said they

should be cautious when exploring and hopes Windsorites would invest more in Windsor. “If Windsorites became more educated about what is going on in their city I think they’d be surprised,” said Lucier. “They have so much good happening over [in Detroit]. I wish Windsorites would get as excited about what is happening in their city.”

Photo by Grace Bauer

View from Windsor of the Detroit skyline.

the curvature of my spine, it was crushing my lungs so only 50 per cent of my left lung was functioning. I had trouble breathing constantly and it felt like a boulder was resting on top of me.” Murphy had 10 reconstructive surgeries where they placed a growing rod in her back to prevent her spine from rotating and curving. Every few months, doctors would operate on her spine and expand it so it could grow along with the rest of her body. She is now less than five feet tall. When she was 12, doctors performed a final fusion of her spine where they used three titanium rods which stunted her growth. Working with Murphy at Easter Seals is Mike Kelly, former board director, chairman of the annual telethons for five years and a committee

member of 25 years. “This organization helps children and their families,” said Kelly. “It raises funds so that we can give them more opportunities to express themselves.” Kelly has been working with Murphy for eight years, ever since she joined Easter Seals. “Morgan is one of the most optimistic people I know,” said Kelly. “She wants to help other kids with their disabilities and help them overcome their fears.” Murphy said at first when she was younger, she would often get upset. Once she got older, she stopped caring about what people thought of her. “Once I stopped caring, I began to feel more confident and be okay with who I was,” said Murphy. “Seeing other kids with disabilities and embracing who they were helped me be able to embrace myself and be more open, which is why I feel the need to be strong and tell my story for other kids.”

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ONVERGED CITIZEN

Wrench-up is More than 4,000 of Canada's youth to travel across Canada here

Photo By Kylie Turner Photo By Christina Chibani Oliver Swainson poses Bike Windsor-Essex Christina Chibani Converged Citizen Staff

Bike Windsor-Essex has launched a new program focusing on helping individuals in poverty maintain their bike in good condition at no cost. Bike Windsor-Essex was started in 2010 by a small group of people who believed more could be done to promote cycling in Windsor. The Wrench-Up program will include lessons on changing tires, basic emergency repairs and repairing flats. “We have had tremendous uptick from those in our community experiencing poverty,” said Lori Newton, executive director Bike Windsor-Essex. The program has now teamed up with organizations such as the Windsor Youth Centre, the Downtown Mission, New Beginnings, the Glengarry Initiative and the Ford City Renewal to help benefit those who register in the program. Oliver Swainson is the mechanical educational coordinator for Bike WindsorEssex and a former board member. “Bike Windsor-Essex's ultimate goal is to encourage

more people to ride more frequently, by educating people about how their bicycle works and how to maintain it,” said Swainson. “We hope to make it easier and more enjoyable to ride their bike.” Depending on the bike brand and the amount of gears it has, bikes can cost from $200 tomore than $1,000. However, taking the program can be beneficial due to the techniques being taught to keep bikes in good condition. “We are also building a small network of trained bicycle mechanics to address the demand for skilled labour in our city,” said Swainson. “The program takes an interactive and discussion based approach when learning about bike parts,” said Stephen Pitman, coordinator of the Cycle Smart Program. “When discussing the Wrench-Up program, I focus on the value of having access to a certified and experienced bike mechanic.” There are two classes per month with eight students in each. Classes are from 6-8 p.m. For those wanting to join, the registration fee is $50 for all three classes or $45 for Bike Windsor-Essex members.

The Spirit of Windsor at Dieppe Gardens in downtown Windsor. Kylie Turner Converged Citizen Staff Young people in Canada have been given an unusual opportunity to travel all of Canada by train. To celebrate Canada's 150th birthday VIA Rail made a Canada 150 Youth Pass available for $150. The pass was available to travellers between the ages of 12-25 and are for unlimited travel in economy class during Canada's birthday month this July. The pass was so popular the VIA Rail website experienced five times more traffic than usual and shut down many times. tweet from VIA Rail. “We originally planned to make 1,876 passes available. More than 4,000 Canadians purchased passes to travel across Canada.” For youth in Windsor this

pass makes travel in Canada much more affordable compared to VIA Rail's regular summer youth pass for $699. Sekna Dabaja, a student at University of Windsor, saw an article on Facebook about VIA Rail's Canada 150 Youth Pass. Dabaja said the website crashed in the middle of her payment being processed and did not successfully purchase a pass because of this. “If I knew there were limited passes I would have rushed to buy the pass after the site was active again,” said Dabaja. “I have been to more places outside of Canada then I’ve been to in Canada. I feel like it’s important to travel in my country but it’s expensive.” VIA Rail said the passes were unlimited, but did not specify originally what about the pass was unlimited. There were only a limited number of

passes being sold, but the trips within Canada were unlimited. Much like Dabaja, other Canadian youth were upset about the missed opportunity because of website complications and limited passes. “We know our customers, particularly Canadian youth, were frustrated and we are committed to addressing their concerns,” said VIA Rail. “Due to the incredible demand, we extended the offer past the original commitment. We will honour every pass sold, this totals more than 4,000 in 36 hours.” VIA Rail warns Canadian youth to beware of Canada 150 Youth Passes sold online in classified ads. The passes are strictly non-transferable and are valid only for whom the pass has been issued.

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ONVERGED CITIZEN

150 Minutes of Art, Music and Food Sonia Jacob Converged Citizen Staff The candles are blown out this year as Canada celebrates its 150th birthday. The country kicked off its sesquicentennial year with a variety of events. Locally, public relations students from St. Clair College hosted 150 Minutes of Art, Music and Food to celebrate the occasion. What started as an assignment for students led to the event at the Heimat Centre on Apr. 6, 2017. Local vendors and artisans from Windsor gathered to sell their art. Beavertails, hot dogs and other goodies were also sold at the event. Janeen Kratochvil, who studies Public Relations at St. Clair College, said she felt honoured to organize the event. “It’s special because I get to work with my peers. This is our final event that commemorates our graduation,” said Kratochvil. “This is the first time we got to work together as a group completely as a whole and it’s so exciting to work with people who are motivated.” According to Kratochvil, the main idea behind the event was to capitalize the fact that it is Canada's 150th year. Live bands performed all evening and raffle draws were held to give away lots of gifts. Kratochvil said their aim was to capture the celebratory aspect and to instill a sense of community. “It brings the community together. It’s everything that public relations is and it’s a reflection of our values,” said Kratochvil. Mikaela Morin, who is also a Public Relations student at St. Clair College, was excited to put what she learnt into practice and to support not just the program but the community as well. “Being here has been a roller coaster of emotion, just

Photo by Sonia Jacob A band plays at 150 Minutes of Art, Music and Food at the Heimat Centre watching all of our hard work come together and create this great event,” said Morin. “We have learned a lot and it means a lot to take everything that we have learned to put a real event on." According to Shelley Divnich Haggert, the students' professor, approximately $600

welcome our newcomers. This is what we strive to protect. This is everything that the love and freedom of our country is built upon.” Blaine Lavigne, a local art vendor, said the event was fantastic. “I feel good contributing to Canada’s 150th birthday in

“It brings the community together. It’s everything that public relations is and it’s a reflection of our values.” - JaneenKratochvil to $800 was raised through this event. The proceeds were donated to the Veteran’s Memorial Project Windsor which is a nonprofit organization. “We want to convey the message of inclusivity. Canada is everything to everyone in terms of our ethnicity, our Canadian armed forces and the civil liberties that we experience here,” said Kratochvil.“This is why we

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some way. It’s great to see the community brought together,” said Lavigne. Children and students were eager to get Canada themed face paint. Many rushed into the Canadian-themed photo booth with Justin Trudeau’s mask and 'Canada Eh' speech bubbles. There was also a banner for people to express their favorite memories about Canada.

The MediaPlex had a meltdown Dawn Gray Converged Citizen Staff Students from the St. Clair College journalism program took over downtown Windsor’s Phog Lounge for a fundraising event. The MediaPlex Meltdown featured local talent in the form of music, comedy and art. The event was held on April 4 and hosted by journalism student Todd Shearon, who also displayed some of his own musical talent. “We’re here to raise a little money for the Journalism Club and we rocked it out,” said Shearon. “My night was awesome. The vibe was good.” The night’s lineup also included comedic trio Homegrown Weeds. Each member took the stage to display their own unique brand of raunchy comedy to an engaged audience. One-third of the trio, Billy Squires, said he enjoyed the night and the reception of the crowd. “It was a great time, a great audience,” said Squires. “I had a lot of fun. It’s not often you get a great crowd like this.” After a raffle of some unique pieces of art, the night was brought to a close by the Dead River Kings. The local band performed some of their original music to an awaiting and enthusiastic crowd. The event had a turnout of around 40 people, many of whom were students and

Photo by Dawn Gray Todd Shearon plays double duty as both host and performer of the MediaPlex Meltdown that was held at Phog Lounge. friends of the MediaPlex. Cici Deng, a student in the Media Convergence program, attended the event in support of her fellow schoolmates. “It’s an activity put on by the MediaPlex and I’m a part of the MediaPlex,” said Deng. “It was fun, everyone had fun. I loved it.” All proceeds from this event will go towards the Journalism Club of St. Clair College for their annual Journalism Awards and Networking Night which is scheduled to take place at the Giovanni Caboto Club April 20.

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Islamophobia Maryam Farag Converged Citizen Staff Members of the Muslim community would like Windsorites to be more aware of issues around Islamophobia. Members of the Islamic community recently took part in a panel discussion on how to prevent Islamophobia at University of Windsor’s faculty of law. About 100 people were in attendance. Chris Waters, dean of the law school, gave a short speech describing how important it is for the issue of Islamophobia to be clarified. Maher Al-Masri, leader of the Windsor Islamic Council, said he cares about his fellow Canadian citizen who have never met a Muslim person and all who receive news from sources that spread lies about Islam. “We welcome debate about our faith and practices, but what I don’t welcome is I as an individual get to be decriminalized for my faith,” said Al-Masri. Rev. Sadekie Lyttle-Forbes, an ordained minister serving Emmanuel United Church, said if people want to move past prejudice issues they have to be conscious that they have them. “I speak from the position of a Christian black woman minority,” said Lyttle-Forbes. “I myself experienced prejudices as a black person and one of them is when I came to Canada, the assumption was that because I am black I am poor.” Windsor has 30,000 people from Middle-Eastern backgrounds and more than 15,000 of them are Muslims. “There are lots of people who do not know about Islam, like myself, but what’s worse are the people who are misinformed. These are the people we need to reach and sensitize,” said Lyttle-Forbes. Kimberley Babb, an attendant and an associate professor in the department of psychology, said the issue of Islamophobia will never be solved. She said it might decrease but no society is empty from discrimination of

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New business hosts video challenge fundraisers

Photo by Maryam Farag (Right to left) Julie MacFarlane, Imam Youseb Wahb, Rabbi Jeffrey Ableser, Reverend Sadekie Lyttle-Forbes and Dr. Maher Al-Masri speak about Islamaphobia at an event held at the University of Windsor. any kind. “We are not a racist country, but we have elements of racism which we have to avoid as much as we can,” said Babb. Al-Masri said he believes Canada is not a racist country as he came from the Middle East with only $1,200 in his suitcase. Now he is a professor at the university and living his life to the fullest. He said if Canada was a racist country, he would have never reached the place he is in right now. Rabbi Jeffrey Ableser is a leader at Congregation Beth El and teaches Jewish studies at the university. He said as a Canadian he was outraged about the Quebec mosque shooting, but as a Jew he was concerned it could happen again. “Jewish-Muslim relations have been quite positive over the centuries,” said Ableser. “I teach Jewish history and one of the things we talk about for several sessions is something that is known in Jewish history as the golden age of Spain. Literally it was the golden age of Muslim-Spain where Jews lived almost as equals in a Muslim society.” Yousef Wahb, imam of Rose City Islamic Centre, said among the first and top priorities of Islam is the protection of human souls. “Shari’a law is this really vague word that is being used and abused by so many just to keep people afraid of Islam,” said Wahb. Julie MacFarlane is a profes-

sor in the faculty of law and published a book titled Islamic Divorce in North America A Shari’a Path in a Secular Society. MacFarlane said she has heard a lot of lies about the Islamic system and that Shari’a law is not a “law” as everybody thinks. She said every religion has guides to the individual just like the Shari’a for the Muslim individual. “The word Shari’a is the personal moral practice by the individual Muslim,” said MacFarlane. “In Arabic the word means the ‘the path’ because literally this is about finding the path to live a good life.”

“The word Shari’a is the personal moral practice by the individual Muslim,” -Julie MacFarlane Attendants started asking questions to speakers about how they should ensure that Islamophobia does not take root in the community and how should they respond to Islamophobia. “Islam is religion that came to change the human being’s concepts about God and life and didn’t come to change people’s cultures and identities,” said Wahb. “If you want to summarize Islam in two words, it’s freedom and safety.”

Photo by Zander Kelly Thanos Zikantas (left) and Bruce Puffer discuss their new business, Excideo, at the Downtown Accelerator in Windsor. Zander Kelly Converged Citizen Staff A Windsor entrepreneur has created a uniquely new company that seeks to help charities and non-profit organizations host special challenges. Starting this year, Excideo will allow organizations to host “challenges” in order to raise money. This website was founded by Thanos Zikantas, the current owner of Sofos Restaurant on Tecumseh Road in Windsor. Zikantas said one of the biggest challenges charities have is trying to find new ways to raise money. “You can only sell so many chocolate bars and raffle tickets,” said Zikantas. How does Excideo work? A charity creates a challenge, records themselves performing it and then shares it on social media platforms. Viewers have the option to upload themselves doing the challenge or donate to the charity directly. “It’s the marriage between fundraising campaigns and video challenges,” said Zikantas’ business partner,

Bruce Puffer. “The world has gone mad for challenges on social media and yet there is no way for charities to take advantage of that.” The executive director at the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association, Luciana RosuSieza, recently created a challenge with Excideo for the #BeYourSelfie Campaign. The challenge is to be blindfolded and apply make-up to someone else in a move to show that beauty comes from within. “We know that there’s so much focus on exterior appearance, especially with social media,” says RosuSieza. “It feels like there’s more pressure. People are editing and filtering, so this really fit with us with our ideas of beauty, because beauty comes from within.” Rosu-Sieza said it was great working with Zikantas on BANA’s challenge. “Honestly it was fantastic,” said Rosu-Sieza. “They’re highly motivated individuals. He put his whole effort into it.” You can make your own challenge at www.excideo.com.

CONVERGED CITIZEN April 14, 2017

Book Review: Estelle Laure’s But Then

I Came Back “We’re a thousand. We’re a million. We’re facets. Starshine.” If there is one thing I am certain of when participating in a book blog tour, it’s that I’m going in blind. I’m either going to love the book - or not. LOVE. I love this book. Eden Jones, 17 years old (but turns 18 in the novel), falls into a coma after smashing her head off a rocky riverbed. She can see everything that happens in purgatory, what she calls “In Between”. She can see her mother crying in her bed, she can see her best friend holding her limp hand, but she also sees something rather peculiar. While in “In Between,” Eden speaks to a girl, Jasmine. But she is not just any girl. She’s in the hospital too. One room over. Laying in a coma. Coincidence? Waking up from her coma, Eden is met by loving family and friends but adapts a pessimistic outlook on life. She hates everyone. She hates everything. No longer can she perform ballet due to physical therapy, no longer does she feel included in her circle of friends. To her, those few months seemed like an eternity she missed out on. Fate. A lot of us don’t believe in it, but fate plays a big role in

the events of Eden’s life. Joe is a friend of Jasmine’s and frequently visits her. Joe meets Eden and what soon becomes friendship transitions into a relationship. She gives him strength and he helps her see the positive aspects life has to offer. If Eden never slipped she never would have ended up in the hospital and she never would have met Joe. Fate. Or something like that. Estelle Laure has a way with words and writing that instantaneously makes the reader fall in love. The novel is seen through Eden’s perspective with a sense of sarcasm that makes for humorous yet meaningful moments. I laughed with every chapter. The writing was simple yet impactful. The words Laure uses and their brevity make the sentences bold and powerful. When taking notes I jotted down many outstanding quotes. No one knows whether the reality we are experiencing is reality reality or if we’re just making it up. Hands down my favourite character is Eden. I admire her personality and everything she stands for. She’s a hardass and bullheaded. She doesn’t take shit from people and stands her ground. I like that. In the first stages of recovery Eden is stubborn. She doesn’t want any of the help or support that is offered. She wants to be alone, except with Joe of

course. She tells people off when they say something she does not like or when they patronize her for her negativity. What I admire most though is Eden’s ability to rediscover herself. Though the accident changes Eden, she admits to herself that it is for the better. Though she has to work harder than ever at ballet, regain muscle mass and must rekindle relationships she overcomes her pride and becomes a better person. A unique layout characteristic that made this book original is that Laure divided the book into three sections: Before, During and After. Before the accident happened, during the recovery period, and after everything works itself out. On top of being sent an advanced reader’s copy, I was also able to ask Laure a question. So I asked: How did you become an author and what made you want to become one? She responded: "I have always loved books and paper and pens. I have always filtered my reality through words, whether lyrics, poetry, or quotes. My room all the way through college was plastered in words. I have words tattooed on my back. So I think it’s always been there, I just didn’t have a particular story to tell. And I always wanted to be a writer but felt I wasn’t special so why even bother? I found it easier to act and say words

other people gave me. I didn’t realize you have to write badly first, totally release your ego, and get down with all your fears. I started writing in earnest with the intent of completing a novel about ten years ago. I literally had a dream that turned into a story I couldn’t shake. I wrote during my baby’s naps. They say you have to want to be a writer more than sleep. I guess I did. I always want it more than anything."

I recommend this book for any gender ages 12 and up. With romance, humour, sarcasm and drama, this is a book that will satisfy the interests of all. I have a list. A list of favourite authors. This list is small and well thought out. Congratulations Estelle Laure. You made the list. Yours truly, Biblio Virgo

arts & entertainment

Books have voices

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ONVERGED CITIZEN

Windsor Poetry Slam

Ryan Jones Converged Citizen Staff Studies are showing more people use audiobooks for reading. According to goodreads.com, within the past three years audiobooks have become the fastest growing sector in publishing. This information was published in Global Audiobook Trends and Statistics for 2017 which looked at the market and trends of audiobooks. This is also supported by research from BookNet Canada. The BookNet article includes an Audio Publishers Association report showing sales of audiobooks have increased 30 per cent since 2015. The president and CEO of BookNet Canada said there are two main contributing factors to the growth of audiobooks. “One is digital. By digital I mean it used to be that you’d get the audiobooks on CD or audio tape and they’re more difficult,” said Noah Genner. “They were harder to find and you needed a device to play them on and all those kinds of things. But now with the content itself being digitized you can download a file or get it streamed live.” Genner also said people’s lifestyles may play a role in the expansion of audiobooks. “People are busy now,” said Genner. “Being able to multitask - from a lot of surveying and a lot of consumer research we use - the ability to listen to the audiobook while they’re doing something else like cleaning a house or walking a dog or commuting, is a huge factor in the rise.” A librarian at Amherstburg’s Essex County Library said the audiobooks provided are used everyday. She said most people use them when driving. “They come in several formats, the CDs and a device

Photo courtesy of Another Side Photography Kat Moscone performs at Phog Lounge on August 23, 2016. Photo by Ryan Jones Studies show more people use audiobooks for reading.

called a play away, which is pretty cool. It’s like a little book all in itself, you just throw in a battery and a headset. They are also available online for download,” said Caroline Reichert. Students are also finding convenience through audiobooks. Carly Coombe, a history and English student at the University of Windsor, said she uses audiobooks to understand her readings in a shorter amount of time. “Being that both my majors revolve around readings, I needed to find a way to read my required texts without spending too much time,” said Coombe. “By using audiobooks I can follow along with the book and notice things that I would not have been able to if I had not listened to them.” Alex Abbruzzese, a first year psychology student at University of Windsor, said he also finds great value in audiobooks and has been using them for 11 years. He said he enjoys listening to them while doing chores

such as dishes or cleaning up the yard and finds it to be an entertaining and enriching experience.

“By using audiobooks I can follow along with the book and notice things that I would not have been able to if I had not listened to them.” -Carly Coombe

“I first discovered audiobooks when my mom brought some home from the library where she works. I was about six at the time and loved reading, but eye strain was an issue for me, so audiobooks were the natural solution,” said Abbruzzese. In a busy society the ease of reading is just a pair of headphones away.

Chelsea Girard Converged Citizen Staff Inspired by Vancouver's annual Canadian Individual Poetry Slam, The Windsor Poetry Slam group hosts a poetry competition every fourth Tuesday at Phog Lounge. The group aims to craft a friendly competition with a goal of sending local poets to national competitions. Each event starts with an open mic section, then moves into the competition. The night is solely focused on writing and performances without the use of props, costumes or music. Matt Loeb, founder and CEO of the Windsor Poetry Slam, said he started the event because he wanted to build a stage and give a voice to Windsorites on a national level. "We’re one of the fastest growing and most vibrant slams in the country," said Loeb. "I hope we’ll encourage the growth of local artists but also carve out a spot in the national stage." After two rounds of threeminute poetry slams, poets are

scored by random members of the audience and the top five poets move on to the second round. In the past, the Windsor Poetry Slam has featured Canadian Individual Poetry Slam champions such as Andre Prefontaine and IF The Poet, Windsor's Poet Laureate Marty Gervais and YouTube sensation Sabrina Benaim. Kat Moscone, 29, leading with 54 points this 2016-2017 season, said the community can gain perspective from the poetry group by hearing pieces from a diverse group. These people will learn what is going on in the lives of the strangers they pass on the streets and be able to relate more on a personal level. "I had never experienced a community with so much support for one another like this before," said Moscone. "If different communities throughout Windsor adapted some of the same techniques and attitudes the slam uses, people may find themselves more involved in community activities." The Windsor Slam Poetry group is hosting their next event on April 25, at Phog Lounge at 8 p.m.

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arts & entertainment ONVERGED CITIZEN 2017 An egg-cellent Comic celebration Book SyndiCon Kurlis Mati Converged Citizen Staff

Easter is celebrated in many households, especially among people of the Christian faith. Easter is a Christian holiday, celebrated this year on Sunday, April 16. The date of this celebration is determined by the first Sunday after the first full moon. The holiday features many different traditions for religious families who celebrate it. Natasha Ilievski, an employee at Walmart Canada, said Easter time is one of the most popular holidays for candy sales. Research in an article published by Canadianconnection.com shows that Canadians buy

Photo by Constance Xiong This year’s Comic Book SyndiCon attracted more than 1,000 comic book fans. Constance Xiong Converged Citizen Staff More than 1,000 comic book fans from Ontario, Michigan and as far away as New Jersey attended the 3rd Annual Comic Book SyndiCon. The event was organized by the Comic Book Syndicate and held on April 2 at the St.Clair Centre for the Arts. Coordinator Jolie Inthavong said this year had some special panels.The creator of Transformers, Bob Budiansky, was the featured guest. It also had a wider variety of comic books than last year and workshops. The convention featured more than 80 comic book writers, artists and vendors from Ontario, Michigan and New Jersey. The convention floor was filled with comic books, toys and video games. “Instead of just having a professional come where you can meet and greet with them, we also have delivery panels,”

said Inthavong. “You can learn how to create podcasts, how to build full gowns for cosplay, how to build your brand and how to get your script sold in a market with millions of people who are trying to do the same things as you.” There were also several activities including live sketching and animation demos. Children and adults who were dressed up in colourful character costumes could try out cosplay face art. Bryce Mccloskey, a volunteer who was monitoring the room for wristbands, helped out for the second year in a row. “Because I’m huge fan of comic books, this gives me a chance to contact some excellent comic artists,” said Mccloskey. “Also, I’m talking with a few of the cosplayers and staff here, so it’s exciting, right?” The SyndiCon brings pop culture to locals. The goal of the event is to get better year after year.

around 120 million pounds of Easter candy, with 70 per cent of the candy being chocolate. The total spending on Easter candy is over $2 billion. Ilievski said her family also spends a lot of money on Easter as a whole. “Our family spends around $200 to $250 a year on Easter dinner,” said Ilievski. “Some of our Easter traditions include colouring eggs, going to church at night and having dinner afterwards.” Easter to many people, however, represents more than chocolates and colouring eggs. Riham Misho, a member of the Holy Family Chaldean Church community, said she does not celebrate Easter like she used to but it is still important to her. “Easter to me symbolizes the

separation of life and death,” said Misho. “I believe Easter, like Christmas, has been losing its religious meaning and people are focusing on materialistic things more than the true meaning.” Part of the importance of Easter is the 40-day fasting celebration of Lent. Mariam Yousif, an 18-year-old member of the Holy Family community, said she is fasting from meat for all 40 days until Easter. “The importance of Easter to me is the Resurrection of Christ, “said Yousif. “I feel most people don’t see it as a religious holiday anymore but instead as a way to sell things in stores.” Yousif said Easter is still her favourite holiday.

Leamington hospital name changed to Erie Shores Health Care Cade Ryan Converged Citizen Staff Leamington District Memorial Hospital has changed its name to Erie Shores Health Care almost 70 years after its opening. The Leamington Hospital opened April 1,1950. Now more than six decades later, the hospital has a new name, made official on April 1. The Local Health Integration Network in Chatham and the hospital board approved the name Feb. 7. The new name is meant to represent the entire area the hospital services which includes Leamington, Kingsville, Wheatley, Essex and Harrow. The word hospital was removed from the name and replaced with health care because they offer programs that include mental health care and social services. It is also meant to reflect the relationship they have with other health care facilities such as

the Kingsville Family Health Unit. Hospital spokesman Bill Baker said the name change has been a process that goes back several years and would explain why the logo was changed in 2012. “The logo and the name change better represents the fact we are more than just a hospital and we provide additional services,” said Baker. In the original name the word “memorial” was meant to honour the veterans and people in the community who served in WWII or those who were affected by the war. “We felt the term has aged and it was time for a change but that does not mean we are forgetting about these people,” said Baker. Erie Shores Health Care is still considered a hospital. A hospital as defined by the Public Hospital Act is a place with a prescribed structure and infrastructure for delivering services which can include inpatients and outpatient serv-

ices. It can be on one site or many, but each must be designated as a hospital site and operated through a hospital corporation. A health care facility, on the other hand, is a broader term that does not have to meet the same requirements of the hospital act and can encompass a variety of government-funded, not-for-profit or for profit health care enterprises. The health system manager for the LHIN said the types of care offered at a hospital include acute care, post-acute care and community services. “Acute care service is referred to as services provided within the hospital. Typically these are bed services,” said Ron Sheppard. Tthere are post acute services which are rehabilitation services or complex continuing care which are both ways to rehabilitate patients. Some of the many community services the hospital offers includes home care and Meals on Wheels.

Digital athletics comes to St. Clair Ryan Blevins Converged Citizen Staff

St. Clair College is bringing Canada’s first varsity eSports team to Windsor next fall. In an unprecedented move, the St. Clair College Student Athletic Association has announced the addition of their 15th varsity sports team. Saints Gaming, the competitive eSports team, will start up beginning in September. “St. Clair College continues to set the standard by adapting to the changing needs of our students,” said Tristan Bouchat, president of the SAA. “It’s a matter of inclusivity here at St Clair.” The process began when members of the college’s Information Technology Club were seeking something to offer students in addition to the two already offered annual small gaming events. With the help of club members, ITC president Dean Hayes and local eSports consultant Shaun Byrne made a pitch to the college’s athletic association, which was immediately on board. The college granted the program $250,000 in funding which includes bursaries and scholarships. Each member of the team is eligible for the same maximum athletic scholarship of

$1,250 which all other athletes can receive. The team will have coaches, uniforms and would ideally like to be able to cover all travel expenses of their team. No coaches have yet been hired, but the application process has begun. Experience in eSports will be one major criterion when selecting a coach. Jeff Rousseau, president of the Student Representative Council at St. Clair College and said he understands how important technology is to students. “Technology is such a huge component of any student’s life, so incorporating this aspect into a competitive gaming environment is a huge step forward for St. Clair, all the while offering students another avenue to engage in extracurricular activities,” said Rousseau. Electronic sports is one of the fastest growing industries in the gaming world. The sport has become a global phenomenon, with over 200 million viewers on the professional circuit in 2016. According to online publication Venture Beat, the eSports industry grossed $256 million worldwide last year. Its projected viewership will grow 11 per cent over the next three years. Even mainstream professional basketball athletes such as Rick Fox and

Photo by Ryan Blevins Dean Hayes (left) and a member of the Saints Gaming team at their booth at Windsor’s Comic Book SyndiCon.

Shaquille O’Neal have made multi-million dollar purchases of eSports teams. The college will host an eSports competitive tournament to begin scouting for players. Saints Gaming Live will be a two-day event June on 10 and 11. Early bird registration for the event is $25 per player. There will be prize money awarded to the winner of the seven games to be played during the competition. Participants can receive up to $2,500 in prize money. Any Grade 12 student who attends the tournament will receive a $500 bursary if they choose St. Clair College in the fall,

regardless of whether or not they make the team. Hayes said he thinks the tournament will benefit both the college and help kick start the gaming program. “Saints Gaming Live is an opportunity to expand on past success, help kick off a competitive eSports scene here at St. Clair College, and give local eSports an opportunity to rise to new heights,” said Hayes. The Saints Gaming team has yet to schedule any matches or tournaments, but expects to be accepting invitations and seeking opportunities as tournaments are announced in September.

Due to the absence of other varsity eSports teams, the Saints expect to compete against other club teams from post-secondary schools in Canada and some competitive teams in the states. The college’s main campus already has a gaming lab in place. The Saints Gaming Lab is a room equipped with state of the art gaming computers which will allow students to practise and scrimmage against each other. Students interesting in participating can find applications online at stclaircollege.ca.

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sports & fitness

April 14, 2017

ONVERGED CITIZEN

When the lights go down in The Joe

Opinion

Noah Gecelovsky Converged Citizen Staff Walking in to Joe Louis Arena for the last time through the curtain at the Gordie Howe entrance, there was the same blinding light I remembered as an eight year old. Despite several visits to The Joe since then, this time held an incomparable emotional level. There is that iconic memory — the sea of red and white jerseys, shirts and hats with numbers and names of heros on the back. #5 Lidstrom, #14 Shanahan, #30 Osgood, #8 Larionov, #91 Federov, #19 Yzerman. The crowd roared as the players warmed up. The red leather seats. The old-style scoreboard. The glowing jumbotron with the wing-ed wheel shining out like a lighthouse in the dark night. The numbers of legends hung from the rafters. The big number 9 permanently burned into my memory at that moment. This is where history was made. I looked down onto the ice and remembered seeing videos of Darren

Photo by Todd Shearon The accolades that hang at Joe Louis Arena. McCarty dropping to his knees to clobber Claude Lemieux. Mike Vernon squaring off against Patrick Roy. Steve Yzerman streaking across the blue line and sniping the puck top right— just below the bar… The date was Nov. 21, 2005 and for Red Wings fans that is a special date. It happened around the eight-minute-mark in the first period — the score was 1-0 for the Nashville Predators. Out of nowhere bottles and pieces of equipment were thrown onto the ice from the bench. Mike Babcock grabbed a handful of sticks and threw them out on the ice to stop play. A bench may have even been thrown. It was when Jiri Fischer had a heart attack. Kris Draper flew over the bench and skated as fast as he could down the ice, slamming on the Zamboni

doors. They were finally opened and sparks flew from his skates as he ran across the concrete to get the AED defibrillator and rushed back to the bench. Time passed and people were on their feet and dumbfounded. An ambulance eventually backed up to where the Zamboni made its entrance on the ice. The paramedics unloaded a stretcher and were guided over to the bench where they strapped Fischer to the stretcher and rushed him back out to the ambulance and off to hospital. No one really knew what happened. Making my way to the Red Wings bench after the announcement had been made that the game would be postponed, I saw coach Babcock talking to some of the security guards. When I told him that it was my first game he gave me an official Detroit Red

Wings game puck. After that game, Jiri Fischer retired due to health problems and ended his career. Being there for a piece of history made the building that much more important to me, all encapsulated by the lights, the cheering, the passion and the love for the team and the city. One day I will look across the water and that building will not exist anymore. That place of child worship will just be a piece of history like Tiger Stadium or the Olympia. It was so important to me to have one last chance to see the Red Wings at the Joe. Whether they won or lost didn’t matter. It was a moment to relive my childhood and remember that unbelievable feeling of awe and fascination from that first game. After the game, I ran around the entire arena looking for a puck — noth-

ing special, just sentimental. After talking to four different men who worked at the benches as well as the penalty box, I went over to the Zamboni area where Kris Draper had sprinted out to grab the AED and told one of the workers my story. He said he did not think there were any pucks left and turned away. A little bummed out, I watched as the man opened a black metal cabinet and on the very bottom shelf sat two pucks. He picked one up, turned and walked towards me. He said it seemed to be my lucky day and handed me the puck. That feeling of accomplishment and childlike joy washed over me. My first and last game at Joe Louis Arena. As Red Wings fans we will miss the Joe. We will always remember those memory-making nights in Hockeytown.

sports & fitness

APRIL 14, 2017

ONVERGED CITIZEN

New life in Leafs Nation Cody Rusan Converged Citizen Staff Last season, the Toronto Maple Leafs sat at the bottom of the league. However, after drafting Auston Matthews first overall, this is one rookie who is stealing hearts and breaking franchise records. There is a new life in Leafs Nation, filled with promise. The Leafs have not seen a Stanley Cup in 50 years. In fact, their last championship season was the very last season before the league expansion. To put that into perspective, there were still only six teams in the league at the time. There are currently 30 teams and there will be 31 next year with the addition of the Las Vegas Golden Knights. Leaf fans have been waiting a long time for luck to turn around. With the 2015 signing of coach Mike Babcock and the signing of hard-nosed general manager Lou

Photo by Cody Rusan Noah Gecelovsky browses the homepage of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Lamoriello, it was clear that Leafs president Brendan Shanahan was not fooling around. The Maple Leafs currently have a team full of young players who are making their marks within their first years of play. Matthews, the Leafs first overall pick in the 2016 entry draft, has been setting new franchise rookie records for goals, 39, and points with 67. However, he is not the only one raising the bar in Toronto.

Mitch Marner, the fourth overall pick from the 2015 draft, set a new Leafs rookie record for assists and is currently sitting at 42. While William Nylander, a first round pick in the 2014 draft, set a new franchise rookie record for longest point streak with at least one point in 12 straight games. With the playoffs looming, the rookies are looking forward to playing a much tougher style of hockey. The

current layout suggests that perhaps the Maples Leafs are matched up with the Boston Bruins in the first round of the playoffs. This sparks memories for Leaf fans. “I had to go into work the next morning. A dude came in wearing a Boston Bruins baseball hat. I just stared at him and asked, ‘Why are you doing this,’” said Omar White, a life-long Leafs fan. White is referring to the morning after one of the most heartbreaking defeats in Leafs history. May 13, 2013. Game Seven. Leafs and Bruins. Two rivals, two original six franchises. The Leafs led 4-1 with less than 10 minutes remaining in the third period. It all went downhill from there. Leafs goaltender at the time, James Reimer, did all he could to fend off the relentless Bruins squad, but would be hung out to dry on four unanswered goals. This included the overtime heartbreaker. The Bruins

would later go on to play in the Stanley Cup final, but fall to the Chicago Blackhawks. This could possibly be a chance at redemption for the Leafs. White has a fantasy of what could be a scenario for the rematch. “Mitch Marner ties it late, Matthews gets the overtime winner. Yes please! I would be in tears, I can see the Sportsnet special now,” said White. The Toronto Maple Leafs are still looking to clinch a playoff birth and their last two games may be their most difficult. To end the season they will play the Pittsburgh Penguins on April 8 and the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 9. They must win at least one of their remaining games to claim a playoff position. The New York Islanders and Tampa Bay Lightning have two games remaining as well and sit three points behind the Leafs for the last wild-card position.

Windsor Express looking to playoff push

Jeremy James Fokuoh Converged Citizen Staff The Windsor Express has seven games left in the season until the NBLC playoffs and they are looking to make a big statement in the postseason. Through 33 games, the Express is currently 18-15 in the 2016-2017 NBLC season. They are looking to maintain their second seed in the Central Division. The Express is currently first in scoring defense per game, second in field goal percentage and third in team assist per game. Although his team has played well as of late, Windsor Express Head Coach Bill Jones knows what adjustments his team needs to make to have a deep playoff

run. “This team is starting to play well together,” said Coach Jones. “We understand our process. Moving forward in these last seven games, we have to continue and try to improve, try to get better and play at our best going into the playoffs.” The Express struggled in the beginning of the season due to key injuries. Starting point guard Darren Duncan had missed significant time earlier in the season due to a knee injury, and centre DeAndre Thomas was cleared to play again after tearing his patellar tendon two years ago. The Express began to find success after many transactions and signings that brought former players back to Windsor. They traded for forward Shaquille Keith midway through the season and the return of centre Rudolphe Joly and guard Tony Bennett have been beneficial for the team. Bennett, who played for the Express last season, says the chance at winning another championship is the only goal

he has in his return. “We have the right pieces,” said Bennett. “We have some young guys mixed with some older guys that have been around doing a great job. We got the best coach in the league and I only came back to win a championship.” NoxtromTV and Windsor Express play-by-play commentator Brett Hedges has been commentating for the team since the franchise launched in 2012. Hedges said although the team has struggled, the toughness the roster contains is enough to make a strong playoff push. “This team is tough,” said Hedges. “They have some hard-nose players. They have some Chicago-style players. We have Tony Bennett. We have DeAndre Thomas. We have some really hard guys that are not going to accept losing.” The Express’s next game will be on April 8 where they will play the Saint John Riptide. Their season ends at the end of the month against the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans at the Memorial Auditorium in Kitchener, ON.

Photo by Jeremy James Fokuoh Windsor Express Center DeAndre Thomas (#2) drives to the basket against the Orangeville A's at the WFCU Centre.

sports & fitness Sports round-up Compiled by Noah Gecelovsky

April 14, 2017

ONVERGED CITIZEN

Wings say "Farewell To The Joe"

NHL The Detroit Red Wings hosted the Ottawa Senators on April 4 at the Joe Louis Arena. With the playoff spot in view, the Senators came ready to win. The Senators scored 13 minutes into the first period, but the Wings fought back hard holding them off until the second period where the Senators were able to find twine again. The Wings stuck with it, holding the Senators off for the rest of the game but were unable to add a point themselves with the final score of 2-0 for the Senators. The Toronto Maple Leafs played Tampa Bay Lightning at the Air Canada Centre on April 6. The two teams faced off in a fierce game and while no one scored in the first period, the Bolts came out strong in the second scoring two for themselves with the Leafs answering back with one of their own. In the third period the Lightning were able to capitalize on two more, ending the game with a 4-1 win. This brings the Leafs one win away from securing a playoff spot.

MLB Opening week has kicked off for the MLB. The Detroit Tigers started their season away in Chicago against the White Sox on April 4 after their first game was postponed. The Tigers came away with a 6-3 win over the White Sox for a great season starter. The Tigers played again on April 6 where they were wiped aside by the White Sox with a final score of 11-2. The Toronto Blue Jays started their season in Baltimore against the Orioles for their first game. Nine innings weren't enough: the two teams tied at two and sent the game into extra innings. They went until the bottom of the eleventh where the Orioles scored, winning 3-2. The Jays had more luck later in the week when they played the Tampa Bay Devil Rays winning 5-2.

Spitfires The Windsor Spitfires played the London Knights in Game Seven on April 4 to dictate who would be moving on to the next round of the playoffs. After coming out with a big 3-1 series lead the Spitfires began to lose their grip, letting the series stretch to Game Seven where they were defeated with a score of 3-2. This knocks them out of the playoffs and moves last year's Memorial Cup Champions, the London Knights, on to play the Erie Otters in the second round.

PJHL (Jr. C) For the third straight year the Essex 73's play the Ayr Centennials in the race for the Schmaltz Cup.The series began April 4, in Ayr. For Essex however, the team struggled to find their legs. They were able to muster just five shots in the opening period. The enslaught continued as they fell 5-0 in Game One 5-0. The teams played Game Two on April 6 in Essex where they kept it close, resulting in a 2-2 tie after regulation. This sent the game into overtime and then into double overtime. The 73's Eric Shaw broke the tie, taking the game 3-2. The series currently sits tied at one game each. Game Three will be played April 9 in Ayr while Game Four will take place April 11 in Essex.

Photo by Todd Shearon Red Wings assistant captain Niklas Kronwall discusses the final days of Joe Louis Arena.

Todd Shearon Converged Citizen Staff The Detroit Red Wings are honouring their home of 38 years during this “Farewell To The Joe” season. Joe Louis Arena opened for business in downtown Detroit on Dec. 12, 1979 and hosted its first Wings game Dec. 27, 1979 against the St. Louis Blues. After four Stanley Cups, a 25-year consecutive playoff streak and a laundry list of Hall-of-Fame players, the facility nicknamed The Joe will close its doors on the last Wings season to take place at 19 Steve Yzerman Dr. against the New Jersey Devils on Apr. 9. “The Joe Louis Arena has been home to incredible memories,” said Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland. “It’s been home for me and Red Wings’ fans since 1979 when it opened. I’m sure it will be an emotional night and an emotional weekend.” The Red Wings created a Farewell To The Joe logo to commemorate the historic season as well as merchandise and numerous videos featured on the Jumbotron during

games and social media outlets. Wings’ assistant captain Niklas Kronwall has played 12 seasons and won a Stanley Cup in the NHL’s second oldest building next to New York’s Madison Square Garden. “It’s a bit sad. There’s a lot of history in this building,” said Kronwall. “It’s going to be a bit emotional but also a really cool experience to be a part of.” There are lots of memories and no doubt the Stanley Cups are the first to come to mind. Kronwall said it’s also “about the small things, like when Dom (Hasek) flipped Marian Gaborik or the Red Wings/Avalanche battle.” Although the Wings are moving to a new home and lost more games than they would have hoped to this season, they have also suffered three other significant losses. The end of their 25-year playoff streak and the deaths of both “Mr. Hockey” Gordie Howe and the team’s longtime owner Mike Ilitch. “It’s obviously extremely sad. Of course everyone gets old but on the other hand it would’ve been awesome for

him (Ilitch) to see a game in the new building,” said Kronwall. “It’s been a tough year that way, not just Mr. I, but Gordie Howe as well. There’s been a lot of sad moments this year.” The death of Mr. Ilitch was not only a loss to the Wings, but also to the Motor City. “It was a huge loss not only for Red Wings fans,” said Holland. “He opened the head offices of Little Caesars right in the heart of downtown Detroit when he bought the Fox Theater. He was committed to the city of Detroit.” Ilitch bought the Wings in 1982 and 10 years later bought the Tigers. In between these purchases he also acquired the Fox Theater on Woodward Avenue and followed through with a $12 million renovation project before its grand re-opening on Nov. 11, 1988. It’s unfortunate Mr. I. isn’t here today and won’t get to see the soon finished product of Little Caesars Arena,” said Wings forward Justin Abdelkader. “But he’ll be around there and he’ll be watching over us.” The Wings open their 201718 season in October at the Little Caesars Arena.