Windsor Life Magazine February/March 2022

DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTIAL MAILBOXES IN WINDSOR/ESSEX CHATHAM/KENT

ROSALIE TROMBLEY THE LADY WITH THE GOLDEN EAR

TEACHING EXCELLENCE

A PASSION FOR TRUTH

INTRODUCING PRODUCER STEPHEN PANICCIA

WALKERVILLE TEACHER EARNS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

VISIT US AT

windsorlife.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022 www.windsorlife.com $ 2.95

Stefanie

Masotti CELEBRATING HER NEW ANCHOR POSITION AT CTV WINDSOR

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TEL: 519-977-1125 • FAX: 519-977-0352 2489 SEMINOLE STREET, WINDSOR, ON info@titanenviron.ca • www.tciwindsor.com

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022 VOLUME 29, ISSUE 2

1 CONTRIBUTING1 Matthew St. Amand WRITERS1 Michael Seguin

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Robert E. Robinson

1 Cameron Chappus 1 Alley L. Biniarz 1 Ryan Percy 1 Karen Tinsley

1 ART DIRECTOR1 Michael Pietrangelo PRODUCTION1 George Sharpe PHOTOGRAPHERS1 John Liviero,

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carol Garant

1 Sooters Photography 1 Michael Pietrangelo 1 William Smith 1 Stephen Nilsson 1 Dax Melmer 1 Daniel Cress 1

ADVERTISING SALES 519-979-5433 VICE PRESIDENT ADVERTISING SALES

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Windsor Life Magazine is published by Campbell McGregor Garant Publishing Incorporated. Articles and art may not be reprinted without written per­mission from the publishers.

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PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

Facts about Hearing Loss Hearing loss is generally gradual and painless and can develop at any time.

1-IN-3 People over the

age of 65 lives with a hearing loss (World Health Organization, 2013)

46%

of people aged

45 to 87 have

hearing loss (Cruickshanks et al., 1998)

1

Out of every

4

adult Canadians report having some

(CHS Awareness Survey, 2002)

More Than

hearing loss

1,000,000

adults across the country report having a hearing-related disability (StatsCan, 2002)

Onl

y

1

Out of every

5

people who could benefit from wearing a hearing aid actually wear one.

(National Institute on deafness and Other Communication Disorders)

Are you experiencing Hearing Issues?

There are many signs of hearing loss.

Recognizing these signs and getting help early will have a positive impact on your quality of life.

1. Do many people you talk to seem to mumble or not speak clearly?

Yes

No

2. Do people complain that you turn the TV or radio volume up too high?

Yes

No

3. Do you have trouble hearing in a noisy background?

Yes

No

4. Do you have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?

Yes

No

5. Do you experience a ringing in your ears that nobody else hears?

Yes

No

6. Do you misunderstand what others are saying?

Yes

No

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you could have a hearing loss.

Contact Sound Hearing Care to schedule your hearing test today.

We have implemented and continue to maintain COVID-19 protocols in the office and are committed to ensuring everybody’s health and safety.

SOUND HEARING CARE Donna Ellis patient coordinator

13310 Lanoue St., Tecumseh | 962 Old Tecumseh Rd., Belle River 519.979.3300 | soundhearingcare.ca

Tina Stafferton doctor of audiology

Retirement planning: Where does family fit?

When many Canadians think about retirement planning, we often don’t think about how retirement impacts more than just ourselves.

Families today have widened in definition – more than half of Canadians consider family “anyone they love and care for, whether they are related by blood, marriage or adoption.” Additionally, families today are becoming more connected and interdependent, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.* According to Statistics Canada, over two million Canadians live in a multi-generational home, which often includes the oldest generation.

Family is a high priority for many. Nearly two-thirds of retirees (63%) say they are willing to offer financial support to their family, even if it could jeopardize their own financial future.* However, it’s important to work with your financial advisor to anticipate how commitments may impact your life and finances as you prepare for and live in retirement.

Here are some common situations you that you may want to consider in your retirement planning conversations.

Supporting adult children - Seventeen percent of all parents with adult children, around 1.8 million Canadians, have provided financial support to adult children since the beginning the COVID-19 pandemic.* Supporting your children into adulthood could have serious impacts on your retirement strategy and needs to be included as part of your plan.

Contributing to grandchildren’s education - Spending time with grandchildren in retirement is a common goal. But if you’re looking to contribute to their education savings or to a particular activity for them, it could have an impact on your retirement strategy. Talk to your financial advisor about when and how to balance an education savings strategy with your retirement strategy.

Your Edward Jones Financial Advisors are (l-r):

Don Harris

LaSalle Centre 519 969 3825

Julie Charrette LaSalle 519 966 5046

Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund

www.edwardjones.com

Steven Kidd

LaSalle 519 734 8599

Colin Duggan South Windsor 519 967 0084

Matthew Sears

Windsor St. Rose 519 945 6165

Dave Freeman

Cabana Near Howard 519 967 0084

Jennifer Johnson

Windsor on Howard Ave. 519 969 1419

Sean Hunt

South Windsor 519 972 6389

Caring for elderly parents - Canadians with living parents say they worry about their parents and talk with them more often; seventeen percent of those living in retirement said they are relying more on their adult children since the pandemic started. Supporting a parent (or two) into their later years could come at a considerable cost, especially if they are living in a long-term care facility. If supporting a parent is important to you, talk to your advisor about how to best plan for this.

Aligning with your partner - You and your partner have travelled a long way together and probably plan on spending time together for many years to come. Depending on how each of you envision retirement, determine a strategy to meet all your goals. The sooner your goals are determined, the more time you have to plan. See the next page for tips on how to approach a discussion with your partner about your retirement visions.

Talk to your financial advisor Your advisor can help determine what it may cost to reach your goals, and how to best help to get you set up to fund them.

Talk to your advisor today to ensure they have a full understanding of all your goals. * Source: Edward Jones/Age Wave Four Pillars of the New Retirement study This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial advisor.

Chris Horovenko Tecumseh Rd. at Norman 519 944 2971

John Atkinson Riverside East 519 944 9080

Diane Santing

Tecumseh Centre 519 979 7334

Dean Doster

St. Clair Beach 519 979 5555

Theresa King

Belle River 519 727 1041

Mark Szarek

Leamington 519 324 0144

Mitchell Shields Leamington 519 324 0144

Dennis McDonald Kingsville 519 733 6186

42

50

ON THE COVER CTV Windsor’s News Anchor Stefanie Masotti.

Photography by John Liviero, Sooters Photography

DEPARTMENTS

See page 14

28

14

FEATURES

28

STEFANIE MASOTTI

32

THE RUNNING-SHAPED HOLE

Local Author Saves His Life One Step at a Time

8

W i n d s o r

L i f e

NEW & NOTICED BON APPETIT!

42

CKLW Legend Leaves Her Mark on the Music Industry GHOST HOTEL

36

ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE

Nick Harris Receives the Rhodes Scholarship

ST. CLAIR FRATMEN

Mike LaChance Shares Highs And Lows of the Season 50

A Look at Karen Morand’s New Album

CTV Windsor Welcomes Their Newest Anchor 26

ROSALIE TROMBLEY

24 38

TRUTH AND BEAUTY

Shake Hands With Producer Stephen Paniccia 53

ALICE ASPINALL

Walkerville Math Teacher Wins Excellence Award

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Using a wide range of natural fillers from Juvederm and TEOSYAL, Dr. Sherman prides herself on the ability to use what is best suited for every patient with an injection method that results in less pain, less swelling and minimal bruising for your best looking results! Afterwards, you can quickly resume normal activities, such as going back to work the same day.

Coral’s team is also certified in laser and Intense Pulse Light treatments. This includes treatments for fine lines, hair removal, rosacea, sun damaged skin, spider veins, and tattoo removal, acne scars, Melasma (commonly known as pregnancy mask), rosacea, freckles, age spots and other skin pigmentations.

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In February 2022, we are proud to introduce the 2940 Fractional Laser Resurfacing Treatment! The 2940 Laser treats fine lines, deep wrinkles, skin lesions, as well as surgical and acne scars with more power than non-ablative treatments. This laser works by delivering micro-fractional Laser columns to the skin which results in brand new skin stimulating the body’s natural collagen building response and producing impressive changes in skin texture, wrinkles, Lines (frown, lipstick, smokers), crows feet, dark sun spots, and abnormal skin coloration.

At our spa, the health and safety of our guests and staff is our top priority, and we have implemented extensive procedures and precautions in place to meet and exceed the Ontario Government and WECHU guidelines. Some of the new protocols include but are not limited to staff and guest screening upon entry, requirement of face masks, sanitation of stations throughout the facility and entrance, protective plexiglass barriers at our front reception and our manicure stations, limited guest capacity, physical distancing of at least 6 feet between stations and increased frequency of disinfection of surfaces.

“To access professional medical or skin care services or simply enjoy a little pampering, make an appointment at Coral Medical Health Spa,” says Dr. Sherman. “Our wellness team is going to take good care of you.”

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Welcome to my first note of 2022. Each year Windsor Life Magazine extends the time between our Holiday Issue and our February Edition so we can savour the season with family and friends, enjoying a little time to relax.

This year my wife, Carol and I, maximized our time off and enjoyed so many things together.

There was an extensive wine tour where we enjoyed the offerings of many of the local vineyards and a constant sampling of cuisine served by many of our favourite chefs from local eateries known for their fabulously presented fare served in intimate settings.

Then, of course, we attended a day’s long film festival presented in a warm and cozy theatre with the most comfortable of seating.

Okay, wait. Back to reality. We left different wines in each room of our home and enjoyed samplings as we moved around the house. The fine dinners were delivered to our front door and enjoyed in our dining room and the theatre is located in our family room.

You see, the ink was barely dry on my Holiday note telling how, at last, we were going to be able to enjoy our friends and family for the Holidays when the door was closed on festivities. I don’t need to tell any of you why. It is the same old reason we have been controlled by for nearly two years.

As I write this I have just listened to the report that stated by the time you read this we will be relieved of some of the restrictions.

We also have a vague idea as to when we can return to some form of normalcy. But we have heard this before. Hopefully this is the last of the interruptions. Hopefully we have it right this time.

We at Windsor Life Magazine have repeatedly encouraged you, our readers to whenever possible shop our local merchants, enjoy our local eateries and take advantage of the resources our communities have to offer. These things have never been more important.

Please remember to be courteous to everyone you meet. They have worked tirelessly to supply us with the things we desire to the best of their ability. Please be understanding with the frontline staff at restaurants and retail outlets. Remember, they don’t control what they have in stock or who they can and can’t serve. Be part of the solution not the problem. We are all in this together.

Stay Safe.

Bob Robinson

A guaranteed return – and more

GIA FAQ Can a GIA provide a guaranteed interest rate?

Yes. GIAs offer a guaranteed interest rate from the day money is invested until maturity.

Guaranteed interest accounts provide interest income, insurance benefits and flexibility.

Does a GIA qualify for deposit protection on investments up to $100,000?

Yes. Assuris (which protects Canadian insurance policyholders) provides additional protection.

There is almost always a place for secure, guaranteed investments in an investor’s portfolio. They can help reduce the volatility of a balanced mix of stocks and bonds, and they can deliver a steady stream of interest income to help support lifestyle goals.

Is it possible to access money invested in a GIA before maturity?

Yes. Fees may apply.

A guaranteed interest account (GIA) offered by an insurance company has some interesting additional benefits that can help investors achieve other objectives.

Are term choices available?

Yes.

What is a GIA?

Is it possible to designate a beneficiary on a GIA?

A GIA is an insurance contract that pays interest at a guaranteed rate, like a bank-issued guaranteed investment certificate (GIC). A variety of terms are available ranging from short-term to long-term. Either way, at maturity, investors can choose to reinvest their original investment plus the interest they have earned.

Yes.

Does a GIA offer the estate planning advantages that come with avoiding probate?

Yes.

Importantly, once purchased, the interest rate does not fluctuate with the markets.

On top of that, a GIA offered by an insurance company offers extras like tax and estate planning benefits, as well as potential creditor protection.

Is GIA interest income potentially eligible for the pension income tax credit and pension income splitting when the owner is age 65 or older?

Tax planning benefits

Yes.

Every dollar saved in tax is an extra dollar available to save or invest – and a GIA can provide tax savings in two ways for non-registered accounts. First, investors can defer taxes on GIA interest for up to one year. Second, when investors are age 65 or older, GIA interest income may qualify for the pension income tax credit and for pension income splitting with a spouse or common-law partner.

Is it possible to hold a GIA in an RRSP, RRIF, TFSA or non-registered account?

Yes. RRSPs, RRIFs and non-registered accounts can hold short-term or long-term GIAs. TFSAs can hold long-term GIAs. How can I invest in a GIA?

Estate planning benefits

Most people want their assets to transfer quickly, cost-effectively and privately to their beneficiaries. Because a GIA is an insurance contract, it allows for the naming of a beneficiary. This means the proceeds can be paid directly to the beneficiary and avoid the estate, and therefore probate where applicable, and potential delays and associated costs, as well as public scrutiny in a probate court.

Potential creditor protection

Professionals and small business owners often worry about protecting their personal assets from creditors. If they’re sued or the business runs into financial difficulties, creditors may have the right to seize what they own personally.

GIAs have the potential to help with creditor protection during the investor’s lifetime, as well as after death when the death benefit passes directly to a named beneficiary outside the estate. It is very important to consult with a legal advisor to discuss the rules surrounding eligibility for creditor protection.

Why choose a GIA?

Many investors choose GIAs primarily to help protect part of their portfolio from market exposure and to guarantee a predictable return. Tax and estate planning benefits and potential creditor protection can be attractive extra features.

Depending on the structure of the GIA, investors may also benefit from flexibility to move in and out of the markets in response to volatility or changing financial needs.

That’s because some GIAs are offered in contracts that also offer segregated funds.

This means that it may be possible to transfer between the GIA and a segregated fund that provides access to market growth. This transfer would be subject to fees.

For investors looking for security and stability in an unpredictable world, GIAs can help safeguard capital and deliver guaranteed rates. Unlike some market-dependent investments, GIAs also qualify for deposit protection from Assuris on investments up to $100,000. Speak with me about whether a GIA may be appropriate for your needs and goals.

You have to get them via a life-licensed advisor, as they are issued by insurance companies.

The probate process and fees do not apply in Quebec. There is a verification process for non-notarial wills but not for notarial wills.

In Saskatchewan jointly held property and insurance policies with a named beneficiary are included on the application for probate but do not flow through the estate and are not subject to probate fees. 2In certain circumstances, you can protect your contract from unforeseen bankruptcy by designating a preferred class beneficiary. Since there are some circumstances where creditor protection may not apply, you should consult a legal advisor to find out if you’re eligible for this protection. 3Withdrawals, fund switches and/ or transfers between investment options may be subject to fees and charges, result in tax consequences, and impact segregated fund guarantees.

1

© 2020 Manulife. The persons and situations depicted are fictional and their resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental. This media is for information purposes only and is not intended to provide specific financial, tax, legal, accounting or other advice and should not be relied upon in that regard. Many of the issues discussed will vary by province. Individuals should seek the advice of professionals to ensure that any action taken with respect to this information is appropriate to their specific situation. E & O E. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments.

Please read the fund facts as well as the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Any amount that is allocated to a segregated fund is invested at the risk of the contractholder and may increase or decrease in value.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL Barbara Allen, HBA, CFP Life Insurance Advisor Manulife Securities Insurance Inc. Senior Financial Advisor Manulife Securities Incorporated Direct Line 519-250-0515 519-250-5190, ext. 409 Barbara.Allen@manulifesecurities.ca 2255 Cadillac Street, Windsor

Stocks, bonds and mutual funds are offered through Manulife Securities Incorporated. Insurance products and services are offered through Manulife Securities Insurance Inc. Banking products and services are offered through referral.

FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR ALL LIFE EVENTS SINCE 1995

www.ProtectMyFamilyWealth.ca Manulife, Manulife & Stylized M Design, Stylized M Design and Manulife Securities are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license.

THE MAKING OF A STORYTELLER CTV Windsor’s Stefanie Masotti Celebrates Her New Anchor Position and The Life That Guided Her There STORY BY ALLEY L. BINIARZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO

Left: CTV Windsor’s Stefanie Masotti.

This page clockwise from bottom: Stefanie interviews a protester during the G20 Summit in Toronto. (June 26, 2010); experimenting with a broadcast camera while studying at Western University. (2010); Stefanie interviews now former CTV Windsor News Anchor Jim Crichton days before his final newscast.. Photo By: Daniel Cress, News Director; Stefanie Masotti photographed in her home with her husband Corey Donaldson and children, Nicolo and Noella. Photo by John Liviero, Sooters Photography.

s

CELEBRATING A SECOND BABY AT HOME and an anchor position awaiting her return, CTV Windsor’s Stefanie Masotti feels like she’s finally “made it.”

“You always think that having kids is going to affect your career but it’s refreshing to know that taking time off to be with my family didn’t hold me back. It really shows how the world has moved,” Stefanie says about the role that CTV company culture has played in this milestone.

This has been Stefanie’s goal for the last 10 years working with CTV and she emphasizes that the success wasn’t handed to her immediately. Before entering the world of journalism, she had to experience what most 20-year-olds feel in their early lives: the uncertainty of where life would take her.

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After finishing her Honours degree in Communications with a Minor in Psychology at the University of Windsor, Stefanie still didn’t feel solid in her life’s path.

Her parents encouraged her to pursue law school and since she’d have a gap year while studying for the LSATs, they suggested that Stefanie move away and enroll in a program to experience life outside her comfort zone.

“They told me to pick something that interested me and that even if I didn’t graduate it would get me out of the house before law school,” Stefanie explains how she wound up choosing Fanshawe College’s Radio and Broadcasting program in London. After just two short weeks in the program, Stefanie felt a pull towards the field and called to let her parents know about her change of heart. “I was so nervous to tell them. I was going from a guaranteed job as a lawyer with money to a different field with its own challenges, but when I told them they said they’d known right away. They could tell just by the way I talked about the program.”

Stefanie’s passion immersed her in the world of journalism, first by finishing the program at Fanshawe and later pursuing her Master’s of Journalism at Western University. Throughout her schooling she was inspired to look beyond the uncertainty within the ever-changing industry and to keep her focus on becoming a good storyteller. She learned that no matter which medium the world was sharing information on, that powerful storytelling would always be at the heart of it.

When applying for jobs in her field, Stefanie listened to those words of wisdom over those of the disheartening professors who tried to discourage her. She continued down her path and applied to every job available, even ones where they required two or more years of experience.

“I applied for a lot of jobs that I wasn’t qualified for. The worst they could say was no!” Stefanie says this attitude was what led her to apply to CTV Ottawa and even though she didn’t get the job she applied for, the company contacted her and offered her a part-time position.

Stefanie spent a year and a half learning the ropes and gaining experience onair before being drawn back to Windsor.

“I learned so much in Ottawa, but it just wasn’t my hometown. I have so much of a history here,” she recounts her family’s immigration from Italy to Windsor. “When I first moved back to Windsor and started reporting, people would recognize my

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Business Law ~ Wills & Estates ~ Commercial Leasing ~ Real Property Employment & Labour Law ~ Civil Litigation ~ Education Law ~ Administrative Law ~ Human Rights Main: 519-969-9844 Toll Free: 1-866-422-7988 Web: www.shibleyrighton.com 2510 Ouellette Avenue, Suite 301, Windsor, Ontario N8X 1L4 * Andrea Thielk practising in association with Shibley Righton LLP and not as a partner, associate or employee of Shibley Righton LLP.

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name and ask if I was related to Giovanni—my nonno. It was so meaningful to hear about how he employed so much of our community through his construction company.”

This connection continues to stand out to Stefanie when reporting on refugees and new Canadians in our area. “We have so many people who come here for a better life; my family is the perfect example of that. When I see new people coming into the community I always say: who knows, maybe 10 years from now they’ll own their own business and employ my daughter or son and it’s exciting to see that happen.”

It’s stories like these that help build communication and awareness within our community. Stefanie adds that when pursuing a story, she hopes it will change at least one person’s life, like she did earlier this year when reporting on a story about a mother who lost her young son to Aids. This story stretched beyond the Windsor-Essex community and was awarded by the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) in the category for Small Market Feature. “It was exciting for the mom of this young man because she knew this story would be shared across Canada and the world,” Stefanie says about the goal of raising awareness for others to get tested for Aids. “Unfortunately, things do happen and we share these stories with one another to improve our lives, and in some cases to save lives.”

To be with this company and to hold this new anchor position in her hometown is a dream come true for Stefanie. She plans to take this opportunity and continue sharing stories, including her own, in hopes of being a positive example for kids who might not know what their “dream career” is after high school or even university.

“Don’t be stressed out if you don’t know what you want to do at a young age; you might just fall into it like I did. I just want people to know that even in the times we are facing, not to give up. Continue on your passions, stay positive, keep working hard, and do what you feel is right for you.”

After spending the last 10 years working a combination of nights and weekends, Stefanie says it’s exciting to be at a place where she’s finally working a steady schedule with set time off to continue spending with her family. When asked what’s next on her goal list, Stefanie says she has worked hard to get to this point and she’s going to relish in the achievement. Beyond that, she’s committed to expanding on what it means to be a great WLM storyteller.

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Back To Life Rehab and Sensory Integration Facility Offering Help, Understanding and Hope to Individuals and Families Living with Neurological Challenges Occupational Therapist Jeanmarie Breault-Towsley founded Back to Life Rehabilitation to help children, youth and adults achieve their optimum physical and psychological wellbeing.

“For me, there’s nothing more rewarding than occupational therapy,” she says. “To make life better for children, families and caregivers is my calling and my passion. I like to say where others see limits, we see potential.”

The principal focus at Back to Life is Ayres Sensory Integration—a trademark neurological therapy involving all seven human sensory systems. Jeanmarie explains, “it’s the brain’s ability to organize information from all seven senses and use it effectively.”

SEVEN HUMAN SENSORY SYSTEMS 1. Proprioception: body awareness from sensory receptors in our muscles, joints and ligaments 2. Vestibular: the perception of bodily position and motion, head movements and the pull of gravity 3. Tactile: sense of touch 4. Visual: sense of sight 5. Auditory: sense of hearing 6. Olfactory: sense of smell 7. Gustatory: sense of taste Who Benefits From Sensory Integration Therapy?

During her first internship, Jeanmarie spent time observing at the A. Jean Ayres Sensory Integration Clinic in California, where the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) and therapy were developed. Designed by occupational therapist and psychologist Dr. A. Jean Ayres to help children cope with sensory-based challenges, SIPT helps pinpoint specific issues associated with learning disabilities, emotional regulation and brain function.

Jeanmarie is certified to administer these trademark tests and therapy to children, youth and adults.

Therapy sessions are play-oriented and may include deep pressure massage and the use of swings, ball pits and slides. Sensory Integration is believed to increase (or decrease, depending on individual circumstances) the threshold for tolerating rich sensory experiences, such as physical activities, school bells ringing, kids yelling on the playground, desk noise or cafeteria smells. Jeanmarie adds, “These are just a handful of examples. There are many more.”

Children living with autism spectrum disorders can experience sensory challenges that affect their behaviour and abilities. Some may be hypersensitive to loud noise, bright lights and have motor skill, balance or eye-hand coordination impairments. Rocking back

Jeanmarie Breault-Towsley occupational therapist

and forth, banging their heads or constantly repeating the same movement can occur. And yet, others may be hyposensitive to the same things—the exact opposite. They may appear lethargic and unresponsive.

Jeanmarie says, “It’s important to consult a qualified professional to assess each child’s specific needs. That’s where we can help.

We consult with family, healthcare providers, teachers and school personnel to provide detailed assessments and deliver the best rehabilitation plan with the best outcome. We can also facilitate referrals to other health professionals or community agencies when appropriate.”

Exceptional Tutoring Expertise Supervised by a local Occupational Therapist with more than 30 years of experience in neurological development, Back to Life OCT certified Educators work one-on-one with students to overcome academic obstacles—at elementary and secondary school levels. Lesson plans are tailored to each student’s unique needs, in consultation with their caregiver.

Jeanmarie points out, “Every child is different, so why should we expect them to all respond or learn in the same way?”

480 Advance Boulevard, Suite 245, Tecumseh 519-956-7481 | administration@backtoliferehab.org

www.backtoliferehab.com

The Dream Team at Stillwater Centre & MedSpa are left to right: Sarah, Sophie, Caryn, Thais, Veronica, Breah, Deana. Seated: Carlie, Jaime.

The Health Solutions Guests Find at Stillwater Skin Centre & MedSpa are More Than Skin Deep OWNER-OPERATOR, SARAH RIVARD, describes Stillwater Skin Centre & MedSpa in a single, elegant line: “Correction in a beautiful space.”

More to the point, she adds: “If you weren’t born with it, we can treat it. Conditions such as acne and hyperpigmentation. I also perform lesion removal. Your concern might not affect your health, yet it still affects you socially, mentally, or emotionally.”

Stillwater celebrated its second year in business in December.

Sarah has been a certified Medical Esthetic Practitioner for the past 18 years, helping people with skin ailments and clinical corrective facials. She and her team perform an array of treatments, which include full body treatments, lymphatic drainage massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and lash enhancements.

Only Ontario accredited practitioners, who study skin health and its function, work at Stillwater. During the various lockdowns brought on by the COVID-19 global pandemic, Sarah used the

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time to ensure each member of her team completed their Clinical Skin Health studies online, which certifies them to work clinically.

“Now, every member of my team can look at pigment on the skin,” Sarah says, “and know if it was caused by sun damage or if it’s hormonal. My team knows the questions to ask.”

The team is minimalist perfection: Team members Breah, Veronica and Sophie have multiple specialties, including couples’ massages, body scrubs, wraps, manicures, and pedicures. Caryn demonstrates her 18 years of experience in every body treatment she performs: full body wraps, scrubs, hot stone massage, and relaxation massage.

“They also specialize in pedicures for feet that need a little extra care,” Sarah says. “Some clients have medical conditions, such as diabetes, calluses or ingrown toenails. We care for our clients in a stress-free environment that doesn’t feel like a clinical office.”

Jaime is interested in correction and achieves this through

Indian scalp massage, which is excellent for relieving tension. She offers these massages during facial treatments while the active products perform their magic. She chats briefly before each treatment to learn what guests want to address and confirm which approach is worth their investment.

All team members are equipped to perform all spa services, except lymphatic drainage. That is the specialty of Thais who is a certified practitioner in southwestern Ontario who performs Brazilian lymphatic drainage.

“The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials,” according to LiveScience.com. The process is a gentle, full body massage, which flushes the system of toxins and alleviates inflammation in joints.

“Infertility doctors recommend Thais,” Sarah explains. “People come in every week for this. Many clients are health care professionals with stressful jobs who are looking for relief.”

The focus at Stillwater is not only providing stress relief and pampering, but determining the triggers of skin ailments, treating those triggers, and monitoring the results.

“Very often, guests come in, believing their problem is one thing,” Sarah explains, “but it turns out to be something else, entirely. Healing begins when you address what’s triggering the condition.”

In this way, Stillwater Skin Centre & MedSpa is different from other spas. Many of their treatments are vitamin based, going past the lipid barrier in the skin. Few products do this.

“Most treatments on the market don’t go that deep,” Sarah says. “Ours have nano molecular content—nano vitamins. We feed nutrition into the skin where there is depletion. Our guests see the healing. If you think of it, our skin is our shield of defense. When it’s impaired or raw or dry, it stings, tingles—it tells us something is wrong. At Stillwater, we feed it the nutrition it needs to bring about healing. Now, my entire team can provide this.”

Become skin savvy Sarah adds: “We don’t sell anything. We recommend nutrition as you learn the to supplement what’s depleted.” skin you’re in!

It’s all about identifying the “triggers.” Products exist to treat the surface problem, but Sarah’s philosophy centers on getting to the root cause and treating that.

She knows this because she experienced it in her own life.

“Years ago, I struggled with my own conditions,” she remembers. “My skin was very re-active and inflamed. Everything I tried either burned or tingled.”

Then, using her own knowledge of skin, she began supplementing nutrition. “That’s when I started seeing positive results.”

It’s all about education. Sarah increased her knowledge about the causes of her condition, and now the Stillwater team educates guests about their options. Guests find this empowering.

If you were not born with the condition, contact Stillwater Skin Centre & MedSpa to learn how they can help.

5970 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor 519-551-0590 | stillwaterskincentre.com

BUILDING A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE MANY GRADUATES of the Windus to division titles. Mr. Rene Bujold was not only our badsor Essex Catholic District School minton coach, but he was also our choir director! We all Board (WECDSB) have been empowtook a strong liking to his youthful energy. At Villanova, ered with the knowledge and skills they Mr. Cuckovic was everyone’s favourite science teacher; he need to live purposeful, meaningful led volunteer trips to Costa Rica in partnership with other lives. schools.”

John Cappucci, Principal and Vice “The second thing is the friendships I cultivated. Many of Chancellor of Assumption University us are still very close friends to this day, even though we all and Dr. Vehniah Tjong, MD an Assislive in different parts of North America.” tant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery At Villanova, Vehniah recalls, “Obviously I was very inat Northwestern University in Evanvolved in sports; our coaches guided us and taught us teamston, Illinois (just outside Chicago)— work—not only in our community, but beyond. We learned are two alumni who say their Catholic about service and giving at every turn—we had blood drives, education dramatically influenced and walkathons, donated clothes, a giving tree—charitable givshaped their current success. ing was just innately part of our curriculum; none of these John Cappucci, Principal and Vice Attending South Windsor’s Notre efforts seemed like they were ‘extra’; we didn’t think twice Chancellor of Assumption University Dame Elementary School, then Holy about them; they were just part of everyday school life.”

Names High School, Cappucci says, “the Holy Names motto —‘for “I believe that my Catholic education provided the secuothers, not oneself ’— always stuck with me. We were inspired to get rity of routine—we said our prayers in the morning and at out in the community—there was such a spirit of partnership. And lunchtime; perhaps inadvertently that also gave us a way to Holy Names set the bar high; their rigorous academic standards helped ground ourselves; as I look back, I think that going to church me develop strong organizational, management and leadership skills.” and school was uniting. I learned about other religions and Cappucci went on to complete a doctorate at Carleton University, a about inclusivity…but Catholicism fostered my strong sense Master of Arts at Queen’s University and a Bachelor of Arts from the of identity.”

University of Windsor.

“Uniforms were also a very unifying thing. Kids don’t have But he remembers all his elementary and secondary school teachers. to worry about not fitting in because they don’t have the Late last year, Cappucci’s return to his South Windsor alma maters was coolest brand name shoes or jeans. Kids and even teenagers documented in a WECDSB video. As he walked the Holy Names halls, can be so mean; the uniform means an equal playing field gymnasium, cafeteria and classrooms, Cappucci ran for everyone. I also think uniinto his former law teacher Mrs. Christie. forms cultivate a level of respect “Aren’t you Prime Minister yet?” she teased. for your appearance—we always Cappucci also recalls Mr. Louis Bortolin “marking had to be sure our shirts were our tests the day after we wrote them, without fail. I clean and tucked in and our socks was so impressed by that discipline and commitment were pulled up!” that I’ve carried his practice into my own classrooms.”

Vehniah concludes, “I believe Speaking about his own faith, Cappucci treasures the mentorship and the strong “the wholeness of Catholicism, the strong work ethic sense of identity were the two and sense of identity it fostered within me.” most significant takeaways for Vehniah Tjong grew up in LaSalle, attending me. Thanks to the excellent role St. Joseph Elementary and St. Thomas of Villanova models and guidance, I develSecondary Schools. oped strong self-confidence and From there, Vehniah graduated from Queen’s Unibelief in my abilities. Maybe the versity with a BASc in 2006, then went on to get her WECDSB has a knack for consisDr. Vehniah Tjong, MD, Assistant Professor of medical degree at the University of Toronto in 2011. tently attracting such high calibre Orthopedic Surgery at Northwestern University She did her postgraduate training as a resident in educators.”

Orthopedic Surgery in 2015; from there she became a Fellow at NorthStephen Fields, communications coordinator at the Windwestern University, McGraw Medical Centre, Orthopedic Surgery in sor Essex Catholic District School Board says, “A WECDSB 2016, where she’s now practicing. education gives young people the insight and perspective to A Board-certified physician in both Canada and the United States, make sense of our world, combined with a strong connecVehniah fondly recalled her early days at St. Joe’s and St. Thomas of tion to their own identity and faith. These powerful tools Villanova: equip our students with the potential to succeed in any field “One of the things I valued most about my education was the great of post-secondary study.” mentors and role models I had. I remember all of them. At St. Joe’s, John Cappucci and Vehniah Tjong are two proof-positive Mrs. Geralyn Kane was our volleyball and basketball coach—she led examples!

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NEWANDNOTICED

TRIBE GYM

ROSATI CONSTRUCTION INC.

With design and construction being carried out by Rosati Construction Inc., the new Mercato Fresh grocery market brand’s Windsor location is to be completed Fall 2022. The new 15,925 square foot store located at 3235 Banwell Road will be constructed on a five-acre property as the commercial development’s main retail anchor. This will be the second location for Mercato Fresh, the first has been in the Chatham-Kent community since early 2020. Pictured from left are Nick Rosati (Rosati Construction Inc.), Jonathan Reaume and Marc Romauldi (Mercato Fresh Inc.) and Tony Rosati (Rosati Construction Inc.). mercatofresh.com or rosatigroup.com.

Celebrating its 5th Anniversary, the Tribe Gym provides high intensity interval training (HIIT) to its members. Located at 1855 Manning Road, in Tecumseh, workouts are done with personal care in small groupbased classes and circuits. Classes are for members of all fitness levels with members from all locations across Windsor-Essex County. Owner/Trainer Tiziana Sofikitis offers a friendly and judgment free atmosphere, and after a great workout, members love to satisfy their cravings with excellent company, lots of laughs, and a delicious brew at Zoe’s Café Corner. tribegym.ca.

COOKIE & CRUMBS CUSTOM DESSERTS

EMERALD ISLE DANCE SOCIETY

The Emerald Isle Dance Society (EIDS) received a $14,400 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. This grant has allowed EIDS to adapt its facility and continue providing quality dance instruction in a safe and effective manner throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also supported promotion of the organization, helping EIDS recruit potential dancers and increase membership following COVID-19 lockdowns. EIDS is a not-for-profit organization established in 1987 that promotes Irish dancing as a form of tradition, culture and amateur athletics in Canada and abroad. If interested in exploring Irish dance further, please visit irishdancewindsor.com.

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Vanessa Brenders, a 15-year-old high school student who has a small baking business, Cookies & Crumbs Custom Desserts, started a fundraiser for the Hiatus House in Windsor where she donates 50% of the profits to this worthy cause. Vanessa sells various desserts from cakes to cupcakes to sugar cookies and more. While this is not her first charity, she started this fundraiser to show that charitable donations should not end with the holidays since so many people locally and globally still need help. facebook.com/cookiescrumbs.co.

CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Windsor-Essex is excited to announce Dr. Sonja Grbevski as its new CEO effective March 7, 2022.

Dr. Grbevski has over 25 years of experience in the mental health sector.

Most recently she held the position of Clinical Services, Vice President, Mental Health Addictions at Hôtel Dieu-Grace Healthcare. “It is with great honour and enthusiasm that I join the CMHA-WECB family. To be part of a grassroots and high performing organization, that is embedded in this community, comes with great responsibility and opportunity to continue with the growth and success of the organization.” windsoressex.cmha.ca.

BILL MARRA

Bill Marra is the new President and CEO of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. Most recently, Bill held the position of Vice President of People, Mission, Communications & Corporate Affairs. Bill has been an active and avid volunteer in our community since 1986 with numerous community-based agencies and non-profit organizations. In 2004, he was appointed to the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services where he served for four years. Bill was first elected to Windsor City Council in 1994.

He served for 6 terms deciding to not for re-election in 2018. hdgh.org.

BEACH GROVE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

President Frank Dayus is proud of the generosity of his fellow Beach Grove Members who were able to raise $150,000 to donate to 14 local charities as part of their 2021 Centennial Celebrations Legacy, surpassing the initial goal of $100,000. They were honoured to participate in the cheque presentations to the selected organizations in December. They were humbled to hear from their staff and volunteers how dire the need has been and the financial impacts the pandemic has had. Beach Grove will host one additional member golf tournament in July 2022 to commemorate the opening of the physical golf course.

Beachgrove.net.

KATHERINE KARON

Windsor’s own Katherine Karon took her first step to reaching the national stage in the Junior Women’s category by placing 3rd at the 2022 Skate Ontario Sectional Championship in November and earning her a spot on Team Ontario. From there, she went to Regina for the Skate Canada Challenge in December to compete against the top 39 skaters from across Canada. Only the top 18 skaters would qualify for the 2022 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships being held in Ottawa last month.

Katherine ending up with a silver medal at Challenge, based on a combined 3rd place short program and fourth place free skate. She went into the Nationals this week as the 2nd ranked Junior Women’s figure skater in Canada.

Back to Contents

RUSSELL DRAGO

Renowned Windsor-born jazz vocalist Russell Drago has proudly launched the first in a lively trio of podcasts celebrating music, culture and border city life. If you have an affinity (past or present) for local history and a bit of nostalgia, Stories from South of Detroit was created just for you! Listen now on Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

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THE RUNNING-SHAPED HOLE Windsor Author Robert Earl Stewart Chronicles His Struggle with Weight in a New Book STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAX MELMER

THE WORST WOUNDS are self-inflicted. Few are as galling and difficult to overcome than weight gain. We’re adults. We know what we ought to do, but it’s more fun turning meals into feasts, treating ourselves to lattes, energy drinks, booze and fast food, cholesterol and calories be damned.

When it comes time to pay the piper, however, the price can be steeper than a bruised ego over squeezing ourselves into clothes that used to fit.

Robert Earl Stewart understands this reckoning. His came during an appointment with a cardiologist in 2013 when he was 38 years old.

In his forthcoming book, The Running-Shaped Hole, to be released by Dundurn Press on February 22, Robert writes about his ordeal and odyssey with food, weight, work and family life.

Early in the book, Robert describes the first signs of trouble: The appointment with the cardiologist was occasioned because he found himself short of breath. Not after running up stairs. Not after moving furniture.

“I began noticing I was having trouble breathing while talking,” Robert writes. “Even speaking at regular, conversational volumes, I was running out of air… I would sweat freely just speaking aloud.”

It didn’t help that the bathroom scale no longer registered his weight. The rare times he stepped on, the screen read “Err” indicating “Error,” necessitating an upgrade to a scale rated to 400 lbs. It told Robert that he weighed 368 lbs.

The morning of the fateful appointment, the personal realizations began before he even left the house. When making the referral to the cardiology centre, Robert was told to dress in “active wear” because he would be running on a treadmill during the stress test. The last time he had seen his “active wear” trousers, his wife, Jennifer, had them laid out on the end of the bed.

“Whose pants are those?!” Robert had asked.

“Those are yours, honey,” Jennifer said.

Robert stared at the outsized clothing, struggling to believe they

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were his. “They look like a flag ready to be draped over a coffin!” he had said.

As it turned out, the stress test wasn’t for another five weeks. This appointment was only the echocardiogram. That was plenty.

“I’d had ultrasounds before,” Robert writes, “of my heart, my guts and, of course, my liver—but this echocardiogram hurt quite a bit more, as the young female technician had to all but climb up on top of the examination table next to me in order to press the transducer into my flesh hard enough for the soundwaves to penetrate both tissue and bone...”

Following the appointment, Robert decided to get lunch. As he drove to a favourite spot—already deciding on his prodigious order—he experienced a moment of clarity.

“It was the fear,” Robert says. “For a brief moment, the liar inside of me was paralyzed by reality. The fantasy was ruptured. The reality that I had just been to a cardiologist’s appointment because I was eating myself to death set in.”

The crisis moment filled him with such terror and foreboding about his mortality that Robert skipped lunch and drove to Willistead Park. There, he did something he had not done in years: he went for a walk.

“Walking around Willistead Park twice left me more exhausted than when I finished the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon in 2015,” he says. “After that first walk, I went home and collapsed into bed and fell asleep.”

He continues: “I kept walking. I walked every day. By the time

I went back to see the cardiologist five weeks later for the actual stress test, I had lost 60 pounds.”

Anyone who lost 60 lbs in five weeks would be rightly proud of that accomplishment, but Robert kept it real: “I still weighed over 300 pounds.”

He didn’t do great on the stress test, either. Although he didn’t hit the target heart rate the cardiologist was looking for, Robert was told that his heart was strong enough for him to do whatever it took to get healthy—walking, running, whatever he felt he could do.

That evening, he went for his daily walk.

When he came to the corner of Moy Avenue and Riverside Drive, he decided to try jogging. He ran the two blocks over to Lincoln Road. The next evening, he jogged again during his walk, pushing himself to go a bit further.

Although he would ultimately lose more than 140 lbs and run the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon two years later, Robert is very clear that The Running-Shaped Hole is not a how-to or motivational book.

“I shared my story because I’m a writer,” he says. “I knew there was something compelling and interesting to me in the story.”

What does he hope readers will take away from his book?

“I hope readers find the book funny,” he says. “There are sad moments, too, but I try not to be taken too seriously. I’m not trying to tell anyone how to do this. If people are encouraged, that is great. I want the reader to be entertained.”

Once he lost the weight and changed the habits that endangered his life, Robert acknowledges it was only then that the hard work began.

“After the Detroit Half Marathon I realized I was injured,” he recalls. “I had a weakness in my lower back that caused me to compensate, unknowingly and hurt myself. I went to physio and had to stop running for a while. And the cycle began again: depression set in, I began eating, I put on weight. When I did run, I felt terrible.”

After taking the time to heal, Robert is back running. The struggle continues, but as he explains in his book, he has put the tools in place to keep making the right decisions and to not beat himself up when he has a slip. He is careful to remember something else he learned along the way: he is only human.

To learn more about The RunningWLM Shaped Hole, visit dundurn.com.

Back to Contents

BEFORE

AFTER

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375 Cabana Rd. E. • 519-997-7799 www.parisiendentures.com

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F e b r u a r y / M a r c h

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THE LADY WITH THE GOLDEN EAR

How a Windsor Mother of Three Became a Radio Legend STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND / PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY TROMBLEY FAMILY ARCHIVES

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listened-to radio stations in North America,” says Rosalie’s son, Tim Trombley, Director of Entertainment at Caesars Windsor.

“Although it broadcast from Windsor, CKLW was known as a Detroit radio station. It was heard in dozens of American states.”

The songs Rosalie chose to play were not lucky guesses.

“Every Monday, she called between forty and fifty record retailers throughout Michigan and Ohio to see what was selling,” Tim continues. “She combined that with her own instincts for a hit record, which included monitoring CKLW’s request line. She tabulated the data and based her decisions on the results.”

It’s clear, however, that Rosalie had a gift. After hearing an album cut by Elton John called “Bennie and the Jets,” played on Detroit soul station WJLB, Rosalie played the song on CKLW. The request lines lit up. The thing was, “Bennie and the Jets” was not scheduled to be a single from the album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. A song titled “Candle in the Wind” was the next single.

s

IN A TIME WHEN RADIO WAS KING, she was queen. Rosalie Trombley was Music Director and one-person powerhouse at Windsor’s CKLW radio station from the late 1960s into the early 1980s—during a time when few women held positions of power in the broadcasting and recording industries. Rosalie passed away on November 23 and tributes from around the music industry have poured in, remembering her as a person with a singular talent for picking the hits.

Rosalie began at CKLW as a part-time switchboard operator on Labour Day Weekend 1963. Following a promotion to the music library, she ultimately served as Music Director from 1968 to 1984. In that role, Rosalie was known as “The Most Powerful Lady in Pop Music,” according to a 1971 Detroit Free Press headline, because her musical taste so strongly influenced what songs received air-time on the station.

“It must be remembered that CKLW was in the Top Five most

Opposite page: The legendary Rosalie Trombley.

This page, clockwise from above: Rosalie hard at work in her office at CKLW; Rosalie’s daughter Diane, Bob Seger, Rosalie, Bruce Springsteen; an autographed photo of Rosalie with Alice Cooper and her son, Tim Trombley; Rosalie with members of Chicago; with Paul and Linda McCartney; Elton John, Rosalie and Johnny Williams.

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As she explains in Michael McNamara’s excellent documentary, Radio Revolution, about CKLW’s halcyon days, Rosalie received a telephone call from Elton John, who said to her: “I want you to tell me about ‘Benny and the Jets.’”

Rosalie asked Elton John if he ever had a top-selling record in the black market. He had not. She asked him: “Do you want a record that’s going to cross from pop to R&B?” Rosalie continued: “And I’ll never forget what Elton John said to me: ‘Who am I to question what they want? If they want “Bennie and the Jets” then that’s what they’ll get.’”

After the single went gold, Elton John visited CKLW to present Rosalie with a gold single for “Bennie and the Jets.” He stuck around to DJ for the day as “EJ the DJ,” and even recorded a promo for the station.

The talent for picking hit songs must have been in the blood, because Rosalie’s eldest son, Tim, managed to do it, and so did her daughter, Diane.

One of the perks of having a mom working at CKLW was Tim’s access to new records. He recalls his mother bringing home Alice Cooper’s, Love It to Death. Of all the tracks on the album, Tim was transfixed by the song “I’m Eighteen.” He told his mom and Rosalie played the song on CKLW. Alice Cooper, himself, states in Radio Revolution what exposure on CKLW meant to the band: “Next thing, it’s Number One. So, CKLW… we owe everything to them. That was the first time we felt viable. We always felt that [Rosalie] was part of our gang.”

Not to be outdone, Rosalie’s daughter Diane picked a hit for her favourite band at the time: Kiss. The song she played over and over on the band’s Destroyer album was a ballad called “Beth.”

At Diane’s suggestion, Rosalie played the song on CKLW and its

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popularity exploded. Kiss subsequently visited CKLW and presented Diane with the gold single.

It was not only Rosalie’s uncanny ability to pick hits that contributed to her stature in the music industry, but also her utter incorruptibility.

“Record label reps knew she was a single mom, raising three kids,” Tim says, “and there were times they offered her money to play a record. She wouldn’t do it. If she didn’t believe in the song, she wouldn’t play it.”

Race and gender played no part in Rosalie’s decisions about what aired. Her son, Tim, notes that she had a great love of black music, saying: “We have a framed photograph of Marvin Gaye that he gave to our mom, and signed it: ‘To Rosalie, yours in peace and love, sincerely Marvin Gaye.’”

It was one thing to spin the feel-good hits of classic Motown, but as the 1960s gave way to the 1970s, artists became more socially conscious. None more than Marvin Gaye who recorded his landmark album What’s Goin’ On in 1971. Accepted as a timeless classic, now, Motown President, Berry Gordy, at the time, was reluctant to release the album, fearing it would harm Marvin Gaye’s commercial viability.

“The Motown promotion people gave it to Rosalie and she thought it was a hit,” Tim explains. “She understood the cultural shift that was happening in America, and in black music.”

Rosalie was also an invaluable supporter of Curtis Mayfield, the Stylistics, and Teddy Pendergrass, Dionne Warwick, Sammy Davis, Jr., as well as homegrown acts, such as the Supremes, the Temptations, the Four Top, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder.

Rosalie also supported fellow Canadians, hearing a hit in the Guess Who’s single “These Eyes,” and in Bachman Turner

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Overdrive’s “Takin’ Care of Business,” among other Canadian artists who benefited from the station’s reach.

There was one Detroit musician for whom Rosalie had a particular fondness.

“She always had a love and affinity for Bob Seger,” says Tim. “CKLW was a catalyst in breaking Bob on a national level. Rosalie connected with his music, lyrically.”

Although she was a fan, that did not mean Seger’s music automatically made it to air on CKLW. As the New York Times obituary for Rosalie states: “Some of his new material came her way in the early 1970s, and she panned it. [Seger] sat down and wrote a song about her called ‘Rosalie’—a tribute to her importance, but with a sly, reproving undercurrent that they both laughed about later.”

The article quotes Rosalie as saying: “He was pissed off when he wrote that song about me. He told me!”

Rosalie insisted the song never be played on CKLW upon penalty of her walking out the door. They never played the song.

Another artist who credits Rosalie with making his career was Tony Orlando. Interviewed in Radio Revolution, Tony tells the story of Rosalie saying to him: “If your next record comes within the ballpark of a commercial record, a playable Top Forty record...

I’ll give it consideration.”

His next record was “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree,” the biggest hit of his career. “She was the first to put it on the air,” Tony remembers. “And the rest became history for me.

We owe it to her. Rosalie Trombley made most people’s careers.”

Tony went on to say that Rosalie had his vote for induction to the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame (though that honour has not yet happened).

Accolades for Rosalie’s talent often arrived at the CKLW offices in the form of flowers. On any given Monday morning, staff would arrive to find large bouquets at the front desk from people such as Elton John, the Rolling Stones, the Who, thanking Rosalie for playing their music at the radio station.

Rosalie’s fame and influence reached its zenith in 1979, when, on June 7, she was invited to the White House in Washington, D.C. The Black Music Association threw a party there and invited Rosalie to attend as thanks for her ongoing support. She attended the party and even met then American President Jimmy Carter.

All good things must come to an end, says the old proverb. By 1984, the radio landscape experienced such upheaval—with the rising popularity of FM stations, and listeners being lured away

by MTV—that a mass lay-off occurred at CKLW to cut costs, affecting Rosalie, as well as many others.

Afterward, Rosalie managed to “keep on keeping on,” working for a time at WLTI-FM in Detroit, and then CKEY in Toronto.

In 2005, Radio Trailblazers, an organization that promotes women in Canadian radio, created the annual Rosalie Award, which recognizes women who have “blazed new trails in radio.”

Rosalie Trombley was its first recipient.

In 2016, Rosalie received the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award, a special Juno Award, recognizing her as “a true forerunner for women in radio between 1967 and 1993.”

Regardless of the honours, Rosalie always kept it real. As Tim explains: “What was so cool about my mom is that she loved her job. She was proud of what she did, but to her, the greatest accomplishment of her life was raising me, my brother Todd, and my sister Diane, as a single mother, in a little house in Riverside in Windsor.” WLM Back to Contents

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THE JOURNEY TO THE GHOST HOTEL HOW MONTHS OF LOCKDOWN LEAD TO KAREN MORAND’S LATEST ALBUM STORY BY RYAN PERCY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN NILSSON FROM A SAUSAGE FACTORY to a simmering stew. It is definitely a strange analogy, but it is the kind of wonderful wordplay that musician Karen Morand uses to describe how her new album changed with the times.

Ghost Hotel is Morand’s upcoming series of tracks accompanied by the Bosco Boys, set to release February 1st, 2022.

While Morand was born in Toronto, her roots in Windsor run deep ever since.

Coming as a musician to the University of Windsor to study Music Therapy, she met the love of her life. Like every sappy heart string twanger you hear on the radio, she may have had certain plans, but love finds a way.

“I don’t know if we actually had plans to leave,” Morand says with a twinkle in her eyes as she looks over at her husband, Charlie. “I thought eventually we would but, you know, Hotel California.”

Much like how the protagonist of the Eagles’ smash hit could not escape, there was one thing that the creation of the album could not get away from: COVID. But Karen is a glass half-full kind of artist and took full advantage of the times.

“Thank you, COVID,” she laughs with an eye roll that speaks volumes, “Myself and the Bosco Boys, we’ve spent a lot of time on the album, and I was forced to really sit with things and let them simmer.”

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Top: Benny Santoro, Karen Morand and Aaron Verhulst. Above: Karen Morand & The Bosco Boys new album, Ghost Hotel.

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What the simmering led to, was the chance for Morand to reach out to other artists and create an album composed of personal tracks and a number of coauthored ones.

“I was able to draw on a lot of guest artists,” Morand answers with a bright smile as she reminisces about the album making process, “because of technology, musicians like Mike Stevens in Sarnia, who’s an incredible harmonica artist, could just lay down a track and send it to me.”

One of the co-written tracks she is most excited to have people listen to is Lockdown and Out. Written by Morand and Justin Latam about their experiences and feelings during the pandemic lockdowns while, in Morand’s words they “didn’t want it to sound like a COVID song” because they wanted it to last beyond COVID, whenever that would be. What came from the collaboration is a crunchy psychedelic track meant for introspection and looking forward.

“I don’t know how many folkies are gonna like it,” Morand worriedly adds about her relations with her normal folk-centric fanbase, “but the people that are, they’ll love it.”

The album as a whole is a journey.

Morand’s goal was to make an album you could listen to start to end in a sitting and go on a wild roller coaster of emotions.

“Not everyone considers the whole album, it’s a world of singles,” Morand adds, “when you’re creating a collection of songs, it’s so good to have an arc and a flavor throughout.”

The album itself is quite the roller coast of tones and flavor, a buffet for the ears and soul. From bluegrassy twangs to R&B and even some slips of gospel and blues with a sprinkle of psychedelic rock, there is a bit of everything. When asked if there was any genre she was not trying to include, she laughs.

“I’ve really played with a lot of different genres,” she continues after coming down from the fit of laughter, “I had initially started in a very folk, very acoustic influenced genre. But the more I’ve gone on playing and writing, I’m figuring out I just want to be more soulful.”

The soulfulness comes through on each track. Morand’s background in the Church, singing gospel hymns, gives a punchy heart-wrenching tone that speaks on a very human level.

Of the nine tracks, four have already

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been released as singles and go on to show the breadth of experiences the listener will have on the Ghost House ride.

The four show Morand’s ability to spin tone and content in a way that you can have any combination of upbeat and/or sad. So, let us dig into those.

Never Enough is the sad/sad track, a slow, soulful and gut-wrenching composition talking about longing, addiction and the stress that it causes to the people who are cast aside in the process.

“When it’s full-blown addiction, there’s that insatiable appetite,” Morand states sullenly, “When someone that you love is kind of turning to something else instead of returning to you, it’s a lonely thing.”

But for those that make it out the other side, there are sorrowful sounding tracks with upbeat messages like Beautiful Scars, a track that oozes pure blues and Americana.

Co-written by Suzie Vinnick and Morand it seems to be a track that can only be put to paper by a pair of veterans or, as Morand says, “vintage musicians.” An ethos of being yourself and realizing after the years it is about perseverance and compassion that makes us human and life worth living.

“You have a collection of dings, scratches and rub marks,” Morand goes off, building analogies to old guitars and your first car, “there’s a little story to all the little things and it’s what makes it special. The same is true with our lives and bodies.”

Easy, on the other hand, is a wild magical roadtrip track that hides a sad story in its lyrics. With the Detroit River as Morand’s muse she crafted the track to help her overcome the loss of a student who took their own life.

“I really wrestled with it; how do we go on with our lives when we’ve lost somebody?” Morand says with eyes filled with sadness and happy memories, “That’s why it’s a joyful song.”

But the most unabashedly joyful song of the album is arguably Coffee, told as a series of interconnected vignettes. Born during a run through Hamilton, birthplace of Tim Horton’s, it is a bouncy morning romp that is sure to perk you up just like a cup of your morning joe. When asked if the lyrics had any ulterior story, Morand just laughs and says it is up to the listener.

If you are interested in picking up Ghost Hotel, the album will be available February 1, 2022 at karenmorand.com as well as most music streaming sites. Lyric videos will also be available on her YouTube channel.

WLM Back to Contents

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NICK HARRIS

Brennan Catholic High School Graduate Named Rhodes Scholar STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND

One particularly bad onset of symptoms landed Nick in the hospital where the source of his trouble was finally identified.

The road to recovery was long and arduous.

“I spent half of grade nine and most of grade ten at home,” he says. “A teacher came to my house every day to read textbooks to me, as I sat in the dark. My eyes could not bear the light.” He pauses, remembering. “There were serious moments when I didn’t know if tomorrow was going to happen. I remember lying in bed, unable to get up, wondering: ‘Is this what life’s going to be?’ I decided that if things ever got better, I would dedicate my life to making this world more beautiful for others.”

One source of inspiration came from his teacher, Ms. Sauro, who had a sign in her room, which read: “If God will bring you to it, God will bring you through it. Just believe.”

Nick says that he prayed every day for a sign. Then one day, when his mother finalized some paperwork at school, she returned home with a box from Ms. Sauro.

It contained a sign just like the one in her classroom from which Nick drew strength.

“I thought that was a pretty strong sign,” Nick says.

By the time he entered grade eleven Nick had regained his strength and most of his debilitating symptoms receded. He transferred to F.J. Brennan Catholic School to have a fresh start. There, he became involved in student government, was elected prime minister of Student Council and was named valedictorian of his graduating class.

“Brennan was a place where teachers taught us to question whether the sky was the limit,” he says. “These experiences taught me to recognize that everyone has their struggles, even if we don’t see them.”

Nick graduated from Brennan as a Loran Scholar. Active since 1990, the

WHEN ASKED IF HE EVER DREAMED of being named a Rhodes Scholar, Windsor native Nick Harris replied: “There was a time when I wasn’t sure I would finish high school.”

On November 22, while driving from Prince Edward Island to Halifax—where Nick attends university—the F.J. Brennan Catholic High School graduate received the call that he was one of 11 Canadians to receive a Rhodes Scholarship for 2022.

Nick responded to the selection committee rep: “You just made everything possible!”

Established in 1903 by Cecil John Rhodes, the Rhodes Scholarship is not only the oldest graduate scholarship in the world, but also widely considered the most prestigious.

Former recipients include world leaders and Nobel Prize winners.

Growing up on Adanac Avenue in west Windsor, Nick attended St. John’s elementary school up to seventh grade. After that, he attended St. James and “It’s about looking at yourself every following graduation, attended Assumption high school. day in the mirror and saying: “I remember in grade eight, my teacher, Mr. Adams, would pose tough ‘I’m willing to roll up my sleeves questions,” Nick recalls. “He reminded us, even as children, that we all had something useful and important to say. He believed we should be able to form and do the hard work.’” an opinion and defend it.”

Nick continues: “We talked about a variety of subjects, such as the Government policy, fundamental rights and freedoms and more—huge topics. My teachers gave Foundation chooses up to 36 students a young people the benefit of the doubt that we had something of merit to say.” year for an undergraduate scholarship valAs Nick settled into the routine of ninth grade, adversity struck from an unexpected ued at $100,000. Among the post-secondquarter. An error in dosage on his acne mediation led to sudden and serious health issues. ary institutions where Nick was accepted, “We didn’t know what was going on,” Nick remembers. “For several months, my symphis choice came down to the University of toms included hypersensitivity to light, migraines, sharp pains in the spine, leading right British Columbia and University of King’s up to seizures.”

College in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

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“I decided which school to attend by flipping a coin,” he says. “The University of King’s College won the toss.”

There, Nick is completing a double major in Political Science and Law, Justice, and Society. For anyone wondering where someone could work with such a degree, there is one corner that has shown great interest in Nick and his abilities: Canadian Intelligence.

After attending a conference in Toronto, Nick remembers meeting a man on the train platform. One of his favourite pastimes is striking up conversations, so Nick greeted the man. Their train was delayed and they went for a coffee. During their conversation the man said he had once worked in Canadian Intelligence and suggested Nick might enjoy the work, too. Taking the man’s advice, Nick applied to work within a Canadian Intelligence Agency. Following an eight-month process, he was cleared Top Secret.

When asked what kind of work he performed with this organization, all Nick could say is: “At one time, I was a fulltime student, president of Student Union and working for the Canadian Intelligence community—doing complex international and domestic policy analysis.”

This year, accustomed to throwing his hat into the ring, Nick applied for the Rhodes Scholarship. He was chosen for an interview from a pool of candidates throughout the Maritimes.

“The interview took place in Prince Edward Island,” Nick explains. “My mentor Lindsay Cameron-Wilson—who’s been like a second mom to me—drove me there with her sister, Lee Surrette.”

The Rhodes candidates were treated to a two-day event. The first day involved conversation and a dinner party. The second day was the interview.

“When I say they grill you during the interview,” Nick says, “I really mean they grill you. I was given a series of scenarios for complex international policy that really had me thinking on my feet.”

When it was over: “I thought I bombed the interview,” Nick says.

He did not. Within an hour of the interviews ending, Nick was offered a Rhodes Scholarship.

He is still processing the news and sums up the experience and all he has come through in the past few years by saying: “It’s about looking at yourself every day in the mirror and saying: ‘I’m willing to roll up my sleeves and do the hard work.’” WLM Back to Contents

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BON

APPETIT! dining & nightlife guide

Antonino’s Original Pizza - South Windsor, Tecumseh, LaSalle. Multiple-award winning pizza with the money back guarantee! Fresh salads & authentic Sicilian Cannoli that even your Nonna will love! Google our menu. originalpizza.ca Capri Pizzeria - Check out our take-out menu and be tempted by our famous pizzas, great pastas, fresh salads and much more! Penny more, penny less, Capri Pizza is still the best!

3020 Dougall Ave. 519-969-6851 Carrots N’ Dates - A health-forward restaurant & bake shoppe that offers delicious meals made with whole foods. Full-service bar, coffee, juices, baked goods, breakfast-dinner menu items and more. Famous for our Pad Thai Sauce! Open Mon-Sat 9am-9pm. 519-735-0447 1125 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh Casa Mia Ristorante - Experience authentic Italian food, local wines and homemade desserts served in a casual, completely handicap accessible setting. For many years, chef and owner Frank Puccio has been making lunch and dinner fresh to order. Gluten free options.

Takeout available. Closed Sunday and Holidays. Follow us on Facebook. 519-728-2224 523 Notre Dame St., Belle River. casamiabelleriver.com

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LUBE SHOP

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Frank Brewing Company - FRANK is pure, straight-to-the-point, old-fashioned beer crafted with dedication and pride. Beer-loving folk enjoy FRANK’s small-batch brews made with only four natural and simple ingredients: water, hops, grain and yeast; and foodies enjoy the small plates, pizzas and sandwiches for pairing, and all the peanuts you can shell.

12000 Tecumseh Rd. E., Tecumseh, ON 519-956-9822 Fratelli Pasta Grill - Offering flavour drenched “woodfire” grilled steaks, seafood and pasta dishes. A fresh and healthy selection of modern and time tested classics. Located behind McDonald’s on Manning Rd. in Tecumseh.

Take-out, catering, private parties. For reservations call 519-735-0355. fratellipastagrill.com The Hungry Wolf - The Hungry Wolf serves up Windsor’s best Greek, Canadian, Mexican

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and Lebanese food. Home of the best gyros in Windsor! hungrywolfrestaurant.com.

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Joe Schmoe’s Eats N’ Drinks - Family friendly restaurant in LaSalle. Handcrafted burgers, sandwiches and salads. Fresh ingredients and house made sauces. Local wines; 12 Ontario craft and commercial beers on tap. HDTVs. Fast, cheerful service. 5881 Malden Rd. (behind Rexall). 519-250-5522 www.eatatjoes.ca Johnny Shotz - Tecumseh’s #1 roadhouse and home of the Chicken Deluxe. Serving Halibut every Friday. Everything cooked from scratch.

37 HD TVs, 15 beers on tap. Follow us on facebook. 13037 Tecumseh Rd. E. 519-735-7005 Neros Gourmet Steakhouse - Indulge in the finer things in life at Neros where modern upscale dining meets traditional steakhouse fare. Fresh, local ingredients, an incredible wine selection and superb service. OpenTable.ca 1-800-991-7777 ext. 22481.

Nola’s, A Taste Of New Orleans - Located in Historic Walkerville. Cajun and Creole cuisine with the New Orleans Twist. Lunch dinner and lots of parking. nolaswindsor.com 1526 Wyandotte Street East. 519-253-1234.

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519-974-7664. sonacanada.com Vito’s Pizzeria - Rustic Italian restaurant serving woodfired pizza, fresh pasta, veal, chicken, grilled steaks and seafood. Wonderful wine selection. Private party spaces. Food truck and portable pizza oven for offsite catering.

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The Relief You Need and Sleep You Deserve DR. LISA DIGIOIA, offering TMJ & Sleep Therapy, has a message to people suffering from chronic headaches, pain and sleep related issues: “I love what I do because I understand that if you are in pain and have trouble sleeping then everything in your life seems to be compromised. Seeing people’s lives change motivates me to help as many people as I can, one patient at a time.”

TMJ stands for “temporomandibular joint,” which acts like a sliding hinge, connecting the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders—known as “TMD,” temporomandibular disorder—can cause pain in the jaw joint, surrounding muscles of the head and neck, headaches, issues with balance and dizziness, as well as other ailments that many may not associate with the disorder.

TMJ treatments have been life-changing for her patients, and they could be the answer to your ongoing ailments. Dr. DiGioia says: “People don’t have to live with pain, nor should they.” The office offers a nonsurgical approach. The treatment works with the body to allow for healing. Patients typically have sleep-related issues, as well. The treatment is all encompassing and Dr. DiGioia helps them with both TMJ and sleep at the same time.

Although you do not need a referral to be seen, many of the patients are referrals from dentists, physicians, psychiatrists, oral surgeons and chiropractors, many of whom she has treated.

“You should be living your best life, live the life you deserve to live—free of pain,” Dr. Lisa says. “This is an investment in yourself and the loved ones that surround you. This type of pain and lack of sleep will negatively impact your relationships.”

Dr. DiGioia has seen lives and marriages saved because a patient is set free from pain.

Why are the treatments so successful?

Whether you have TMD, sleep related issues or both, “we locate the source of the problem. When you’re chasing a symptom, it’s like throwing darts in the dark, that makes it a lot more difficult to hit the bullseye. Focusing in on the actual root cause of the problem—that’s what makes the difference.”

She continues: “Living in pain makes you cranky and miserable. When the pain is

treated, and you finally get a restful sleep, life changes for the better.”

Among the most common complaints that bring patients into the office are headaches, jaw tenderness, earaches, facial pain and lack of sleep.

Dr. DiGioia is able to help with sleep issues. Some of the patient’s complaints include waking multiple times through the night, tossing and turning, feeling unrefreshed after they wake, perhaps even experiencing night terrors. For patients suffering with sleep apnea, and don’t like their CPAP machine, Dr. Lisa offers alternatives.

Dr. DiGioia, TMJ & Sleep Therapy, is listed as a Centre of Excellence with TMJ Sleep Therapy International with 60 Centres in seven countries. Throughout her career Dr. DiGioia has trained and been mentored by some of the best practitioners in the world.

For more information call 519-733-8888 or visit tmjsleeptherapy.ca.

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Clockwise from below left: CJFL All-Canadian running back Jacob Savoni evades London Beefeaters tacklers; CJFL All-Canadian receiver Cody Holmes runs away from a GTA Grizzlies tackler; running back Jacob Savoni (middle) celebrates one of his two touchdowns in the game with OFC All-Star receiver Jared Hayes-Williams (left) and CJFL AllCanadian lineman Kyle Jennings (right); 2021 OFC Coach of the Year Mike LaChance guided the Fratmen to an 8-0 regular season record and a berth in the conference championship game in the very first season at St. Clair.

SACRIFICE, STRATEGY AND SECOND CHANCES Mike LaChance Shares His Experiences As Coach of the St. Clair Fratmen STORY BY CAMERON CHAPPUS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLIAM SMITH 2021 SAW THE RETURN of many sporting events across the world, but locally, Windsorites were able to see the St. Clair College’s Fratmen football team return to the field. “I thought we had a fantastic regular season,” says Mike LaChance, coach of the Fratmen, “we led wire to wire, we didn’t trail in a game and we had all kinds of fun along the way.”

LaChance, a long-standing figure in the provincial football scene, reflects on his experiences through the 2021 season.

The St. Clair Fratmen recently saw one of the most competitive seasons in their history, having a strong series of wins right up until the upset against the London Beefeaters in the Ontario championship game.

“When we open camp, the one thing that we talk about more than anything is every step along the way, every practice, every play in a game,

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every victory that we get, is all part of the puzzle.” The seasoned coach spoke at length about what his team accomplished over the last half-year, including several key victories leading to what seemed like an inevitable success. “That first game against London at St. Clair College, the crowd, the energy, the support we got from the school... We were loud and it was fun. It was a really great atmosphere.” LaChance continues, “I think it defined what we’re going to do moving forward with St. Clair College.” The season didn’t turn in the Fratmen’s favour, but the team and its coach have walked away with a renewed sense of purpose.

Despite their successes, the Fratmen were faced with several challenges along their journey. LaChance notes that the team suffered an unusually high number of injuries during this season. “We had four players break legs this year.” Says LaChance. “In my 18 years in this, I’ve only ever seen one in any given season, maybe two or three overall.” He continues to note that several soft tissue and ligament injuries were sustained amongst the team, which he attributes to the year of inactivity during the ongoing COVID pandemic. “In a contact sport like football, it’s important you stay in shape. But playing shape and gym shape are two totally different things.”

Coach LaChance made sure his team maintained a constant level of competitiveness to keep their momentum going, often encouraging his players to be competitive with each other. “It really instills in them to want to win every day. I think we’re at the highest level of the OFC, so when we do practices like O versus D (offensive versus defensive), it really pushes players to their limit.”

Having coached the Fratmen for almost two decades, LaChance has seen the game, and his team, change drastically over the years. “I’ve been the coach for 18 years and 17 seasons, and seven years before that as assistant coach, so it’s changed a lot. All of it has been positive in different ways. Even the bad times all lead to good things. It’s always been a positive experience.” LaChance goes on, “No matter what changes around me as a coach, the constant thread remains that the goal of the program is not only to win games, but to help develop young athletes. I think the connections you’re able to have as a coach over that time period is unbelievable.”

For the Fratmen, LaChance has certainly been a transformative part of their development into the fiery team they are today.

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“I think that’s the goal of every coach, to make an impact and make a change in people’s lives, for the better.”

Being one of Windsor’s signature sports teams, the St. Clair Fratmen hold a strong sense of pride in their local sports scene.

“We’ve gotten a lot of support; the city was awesome this year,” Coach LaChance notes on his experience over the last year.

“That first game against London, with how special it was, was the first major sporting event of note in Windsor since the start of the pandemic. We took to the field before the Spitfires started, before anything else was going on. We had that first home game.”

For Windsor, the return of local sporting events is nothing short of impactful. As a team, the Fratmen feel a great sense of gratitude for the season they were able to play locally and as coach, Mike LaChance feels especially proud of his team. “It’s hard to just put one name out there for the team because we had such a good team effort.”

Looking back at the season as a whole, LaChance notes that many Windsorites felt that it signaled a return to form for local sports events. “It certainly felt like the most normal thing that we’ve had. I think it was a good getaway for a lot of people.

And the challenge we faced along the way; it was sort of a microcosm of what we’re going through right now.”

Looking into the future, coach LaChance spared no time setting his sights on victory in 2022. “We’re going to win the national championship for St. Clair College,” he says, without a moment of hesitation. “We had a good opportunity to do it this year, it was an easy road. But we’re going to win it next year.”

In 2022, the Fratmen face a greater challenge, as they will have to travel out west for the championship game. Still, LaChance’s sights are firmly set on a 2022 win. “It doesn’t change the goal at hand.

This year our focus got a bit skewed because to win the national championship you have to win the Ontario championship first. But I know the college wants more, I as head coach want more, the staff expect more and our players want more. So, our main focus is that first goal, to secure the national championship and bring that back to Windsor.”

The highs and lows that the Fratmen faced this season were some of the most intense in their memory, but there’s no doubt that this local team is back with more determination than ever.

WLM Back to Contents

Providing a Direct Approach to

IMPROVED HEALTH PEOPLE ACROSS the city have found relief from inflammation, low energy and other nagging ailments, by visiting Infuse Drip Spa. Launched in February 2020 by registered nurse, Niki Grady—who holds a master’s degree in wound healing—Infuse seeks to provide the Windsor area with the best of preventative and proactive healthcare.

“Our IV therapies have been specially formulated to provide your body with the vitamins, nutrients, fluids, electrolytes and anti-oxidants that you need,” Niki explains. “Choose from five different formulas or one customized to your needs.”

Infuse Drip Spa only sees people who are 18 years of age or older.

When a visitor calls, Niki conducts an overall health screen, learning what medications the person is taking, if they have any allergies and if they have undergone an infusion treatment before. If the visitor has any health issues, they do a screening with a nurse practitioner over the phone upon arriving at the spa.

Infusion treatments take approximately 60 minutes and the results are real.

One recent visitor described chronic dehydration due to medication she took for ongoing health issues.

“I got in contact with her physician,” Niki says, “and we put her on weekly treatments of my Wellness Infusion, which contains Vitamin C and glutathione. This is a person who used to stay home all the time, who suffered cramping from dehydration and generally did not feel well. After a few treatments, her energy returned. She said to me: ‘I feel like I have my life back!’”

Niki explains that the infusions are a full litre of water, along with all the medications, going directly into a visitor’s system.

Increasingly, Niki mixes custom infusions to zero-in on people’s individual needs. Infusions are more effective than taking medication orally, for example. When a person takes medication orally, the liver filters out half of it before the dose moves through the body. Infusions, on the other hand, pass through a person’s system and then goes through the liver allowing for a full dose.

Visitors may not come in with life-threatening conditions, but their ailments are serious enough to hamper their daily lives, such as nausea, inflammation, insomnia, low energy. Niki has the infusions to help.

Niki Grady, RN Owner

For one visitor suffering from nausea induced by anti-anxiety medication, Niki put Ondansetron in the infusion, which enabled the visitor to eat.

Another time, Niki received an emergency call from the wife of a man suffering a debilitating hangover. For a modest additional fee, Niki makes house calls—she went to the house, found the man unable to get out of bed. She mixed a Drunk Funk infusion for him.

Within minutes, the treatment took effect. By the end of the infusion, the man rose from bed, ate some food and got on with his day.

One visitor suffering from tinnitus—perpetual ringing in the ears—experienced a positive change after only one infusion treatment. “She said the tinnitus had definitely decreased in how loud it is,” Niki recalls.

People can either visit Infuse Drip Spa at 1277 Ottawa Street, or Niki will make house calls. Treatment frequency ranges from every two weeks, to every few months. It all depends on the client’s needs.

To learn more about Infuse Drip Spa or to book an appointment, visit them online at infusedripspa.com.

Glow & Co. Studio 1277 Ottawa St., Windsor 519-564-0204

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Lakeview Montessori School

INNER AND OUTER VICTORY

AS WE WELCOME the much-anticipated post-pandemic era, we do so with optimism, hope, anticipation and, naturally, a reasonable measure of angst.

Predictions are being made about a range of global changes on subjects varying from climate change to world population growth to the globalization of economies. It is a brave new world of possibilities. Have you considered the anxiety and fear all of this is instilling in our children at this current moment? Because Lakeview Montessori has.

In these unprecedented times, what new challenges will our students face? What changes to the educational landscape are essential to prepare them? As future citizens of the world, children need to learn to be open-minded, reach across cultures and embrace new knowledge.

Montessori education—developed in the 1900s—defies conventional teaching methods.

However, in our rapidly changing world, this method is capable of instilling a love of learning early, helping our children become independent, innovative and authentic thinkers. They are supported so that they leave the school knowing that they are loved by many and encouraged to continue to support each other, be kind to one another and perhaps most significantly, become leaders. The faculty at Lakeview Montessori is committed to nurturing and supporting all students in reaching their full potential.

From Toddler through High School levels, students make active choices about the work they find most compelling and they are offered uninterrupted work cycles so they can explore their personal topic of interest. Montessori has found that when a student can learn at their own pace and at their own level, they are more likely to take on complex work. The beauty of a Montessori classroom is that no student is labeled or left behind due to the well thought out structure.

Lakeview Montessori nurtures the kind of inquiries that nourish a lifetime of learning. It favours errors as a step toward self-directed learning, allows the child to naturally enrich their

“Free the child’s potential and you will transform him into the world.”

– Maria Montessori

independence and gives them the opportunity to reflect on his or her “mistake.” By the end of their journey in the Montessori classroom, students learn that they do not need to seek out the “right” answer from the teacher, panic over an incorrect one or cheat in order to do well.

The classroom is a safe community in which social challenges arise and resolve themselves naturally. The problem-solving skills the Montessori method instills are not just beneficial for academic growth, but they are just as important for social growth. Thanks to this interdependent and supportive social environment, students learn to resolve group problems and find solutions that make sense for all.

As adults, we all understand the need for meaningful collaboration. One needs to learn to gracefully appreciate another’s point of view and find common ground. Just as a parent works hard raising their child at home, a quality Montessori school helps nurture those students into kind, loving and respectful individuals.

To find out more about this intellectual adventure, contact Professor Maureen Harris at lakeviewmontessori.ca.

“There is no greater reward than a child’s sense of inner victory,” Professor Harris states.

EAD

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READY FOR RENOVATIONS

With Spring coming, it’s time to spruce up your home Since 1963, Cope Construction has been a family owned and operated construction firm nestled right in the heart of Windsor.

Now, with his hands on the reins of the family business, Ed Cope has reopened the doors after a brief hiatus to deliver fast, professional and affordable home renovations to the residents of Windsor-Essex.

“Back in 2019 the insurance part of our business was sold,” Ed Cope says while taking a sip of his morning coffee at the office on Wyandotte St. East, “moving forward, the business model is going to be what we started out doing.”

The company used to be two elements, home renovations and insurance restoration. But with the latter being sold off Cope Construction is now focusing primarily on home renovations.

Cope personally brings over 30 years of construction and engineering experience to the company but it’s not just a single man’s job.

“I have very skilled employees and a strong following of subtrades to get the job done,” Cope adds.

“I completed a big music studio, an addition over a garage,” Cope says, showing the stack of construction blueprints behind him, “people are happy to see me and they’re happy with the end product.”

One of those projects Cope mentioned was an additional dwelling unit. It’s currently being built for Paul Butterworth and his wife. Butterworth met his wife in Shanghai and the plan was to build an extension to allow her parents to come and live with them and spend time with their new grandchildren.

“Having an addition built is a big process,” Butterworth says with a sigh of relief, “you were never waiting for something, they were always there to help.”

Butterworth also said it was well worth the investment. The renovation and addition saved his in-laws $200,000 compared to if they had bought a home in the current market.

But Butterworth is not the only client of Cope Construction who can speak to the professionalism and quality of the work, especially with the number of contractors who just seem to vanish mid job.

“I’ve heard so many nightmare stories where people said they’ve started then would never come back,” says Jerri Morris about the construction of her family room addition, “We never had that with Cope, there was always really good communication.”

Both Butterworth and Morris added it only took a few months after a final design was decided on for the work to get finished.

Throughout the process they noted any last minute changes or further additions were worked out and the work finished both beautifully and on or under budget.

“I’ve got three large additions to start in March as soon as the spring weather breaks,” Cope says with a smile, “I think this year is gonna be really big for residential construction.”

From planning to construction drawings. From home renovations to new garage construction. From permit filing to custom engineering. The experts at Cope Construction have you covered.

For more information you can reach Cope Construction at 519-945-2361 or visit www.copeconstruction.com.

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www.copeconstruction.com

Re-imagine Your Indoor Air with ActivePure THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR EXPERIENCE. Originally established as Electrolux in 1924, Aerus’ journey with healthy home products has been filled with innovation. Advancing the fight against pathogens in the air and on surfaces since 1924. Using technology that was developed for use in space exploration, ActivePure has changed indoor air quality and surface standards.

ActivePure is TECHNOLOGY with INTEGRITY and a history of nearly 100 years of innovating to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. Named after the Greek term for “air,” Aerus products help people live well—not only in our current climate, but also for those with asthma or allergies—by producing clean, pure air, and creating healthier indoor environments.

Starting with the company in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Michael Crawley, owner-operator of the Windsor Beyond by Aerus franchise has been with the company for 34 years this coming March. In 2006, he bought the Windsor franchise.

“There is a notable difference between ActivePure Technology and other air purifiers on the market,” says Mike. “Other air purifiers are passive. ActivePure Technology is “Active”; it can proactively reduce pathogens in our homes, hospitals, schools, restaurants, factories, arenas, offices, and any other indoor space.

Mike continues: “Against SARS-CoV2—the virus that causes COVID-19—ActivePure Technology has been proven in laboratory testing to provide a 99.9% reduction of the airborne virus in three minutes. It is not uncommon to cover fifty square feet or one hundred and fifty thousand square feet which can be done with in-duct or with portable units.

Aerus is always prepared to back up its technology with data. The ActivePure website outlines the testing and Scientific Proof; showing how well it works against a variety of viruses and bacteria. ActivePure is proven effective in both laboratory studies and real-world testing. (www.activepure.com) In relation to providing solutions Mike explains, “Let’s just say a school is not happy with its current air quality,” he explains. “We go into the school and test the air and show them the results. Then we install our technology, let it run for five days, and then go in and re-test the air. People are always surprised by the difference when

they see the results.” Not only what they see, but what the difference they feel.

The Boch Center in Boston, Massachusetts is among the latest projects where ActivePure Technology has been installed. “We also recently outfitted 5,560 classrooms in Newfoundland with ActivePure systems,” Mike explains. “That 2017 Space Technology Designed, was accomplished approximatelyProudly 45 days.”

Hall of Fame in Inductee Developed and Engineered In the USA. Throughout the Windsor area, Assembled households In P.R.C. and business owners have learned the difference ActivePure makes. “We have outfitted dental offices, hygienist offices, lawyers offices, restaurants, schools and daycares,” Mike says. “I have customers who’ve had their units running 24/7 for the past 15 years, and they’re still going strong,” he says.

As a directive to upgrading existing filtration systems, such as using a MERV-14 filter, it is only effective to a point. However, upgrading from a MERV-8 filter to a MERV-14 filter both taxes legacy systems and increases a building’s carbon footprint as the equipment requires more energy, thus more cost.

How does ActivePure work? ActivePure’s patented technology releases thousand of submicroscopic particles that actively target pathogens in the air and on surfaces—even ones that try to hide in hard-to-reach cracks and crevices.

Our commitment is to mitigating airborne spread and providing peace of mind during covid and beyond. Trusted by industry leaders, we have built partnerships that share our devotion to fighting pathogens and securing indoor air quality for all.

Talk to Michael about ActivePure Solutions to offer an extra layer of protection to your home or business. We have the best solutions for air and surface purification with ActivePure. It is our privilege to offer our customers peace of mind. For more information visit aerusofwindsoron.com or call 519-944-7800.

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CREATING AWARENESS Award-winning Producer Stephen Paniccia Talks About Toxic Beauty

STORY BY KAREN TINSLEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WHITE PINE PICTURES

A WINDSOR BOY who grew up on Rankin Avenue, Stephen Paniccia, graduated from Assumption High and then majored in business at the University of Windsor. So how did he land in the world of film and television—and become such a success? We sat down with him to find out.

WL: First of all, congratulations on your recent International Emmy nomination for the whistle-blowing documentary, Toxic Beauty. Tell us a bit about the film.

SP: Thank you! Toxic Beauty is a documentary that follows the class action lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and the personal stories of women fighting for justice in a race against time against ovarian cancer. In 1982, a world-renowned epidemiologist linked Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder to this deadly disease. Since the 1960’s, Johnson & Johnson knew the risks but did nothing. In 2004, a UK scientist found parabens—a chemical preservative in many cosmetics—in breast tissue. In 2018, a National Institute of Health study linked breast cancer to personal care product use.

In Canada, regulations are under scrutiny, while in the United States the cosmetic and personal care industries self-regulate. The

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industry claims we have nothing to worry about. We had exclusive access to scientists, lawyers, advocates, regulators, politicians, a dynamic whistle blower, survivors and women who have lost their lives.

Woven throughout the film is a human experiment. We document as Boston University medical student Mymy Nguyen measures her chemical body burden from more than 27 products; scientists monitor her shocking results.

In the end, the film meets the companies and people who offer solutions and hope for safer, toxic-free cosmetics.

WL: I understand that the director, Phyllis Ellis, was one of the women who discovered she was at risk.

SP: Yes. Phyllis was an Olympic athlete, and over 15 years of training and competing, used Johnson & Johnson baby powder several times a day. Her intention was to tell this story to identify the danger that toxic chemicals in cosmetics and personal care products poses to all of us. These chemicals are linked to hormonal disruption in baby boys, developmental delays, low sperm count in men, infertility, cancer, diabetes, obesity and skin disease.

WL: The film was widely recognized in North America—two Canadian Screen Awards, a 2019 Hot Docs Official Selection, and numerous Canada and U.S. film festival selections. And of course, nominated for an International Emmy. But as a producer with Canadian film production company White Pine Pictures, you’re no stranger to awardwinning documentaries: Shake Hands with the Devil: The Journey of Romeo Dallaire comes to mind.

SP: Yes, White Pine Pictures has quite an impressive pedigree—in both documentary films and television. Our film, television and interactive productions have earned more than 42 international awards. We supply documentary programs to all Canadian broadcasters, the BBC, PBS and many others. Shake Hands with the Devil was what we call our breakout documentary. It was honoured at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival with the Audience Award for World Cinema Documentaries and won a 2007 Emmy for Best Documentary.

Two of our productions—A Promise to the Dead: The Exile Journey of Ariel Dorfman and Genius Within: The Life of Glenn Gould were Oscar-shortlisted. Many of our films premier at the world-renowned Toronto International Film Festival.

Opposite top to bottom: Award-winning documentary producer Stephen Paniccia; the promotional poster for Toxic Beauty. This page: Stills from the documentary.

White Pine produced three seasons of The Border, a CBC television award winner— now seen in more than 30 countries and versioned into 20 languages. Cracked, another award-winning drama about a seasoned police officer affected by PTSD, who heads up the Psych Crimes and Crisis Unit, aired for two seasons across Canada and is now airing in the States and Europe.

WL: This is quite the impressive pedigree. To what do you attribute the success of White Pine Pictures?

SP: It’s in large part due to our visionary leader, Peter Raymont. Under his leadership, we are committed to engaging audiences—across genres and platforms with stories that matter. We take great pride in working with the best creative talent and respected international partners. Plus, we’re all passionate perfectionists!

WL: So, we really want to know: how did a business major land in the world of film and television?

SP: I had been involved in theatre all my life—high school theatre, community theatre, Theatre Windsor and university theatre. So even though I majored in business, my two minors were theatre and marketing—I think I was the only Business undergrad minoring in Theatre.

There I was, working to be a CA like my dad, when I had an epiphany. I talked it over with my parents, and fortunately, they were super supportive. I chose Vancouver Film School, because VFS alumni are some of the most sought-after, successful artists, actors, creators and storytellers in the world of media arts.

When I graduated, I was granted a spot in the CFTPA National Mentorship Program with Forefront Entertainment. They needed a five-year business plan, so my business degree allowed me to help them with that, then they hired me into fulltime production.

And the rest—as they say, is history!

Back to Contents

WL: What’s next for you?

SP: We’re hoping to release our Buffy Ste. Marie documentary later this year.

WL: We’ve noticed from your social media pages that you are also very passionate about health and fitness.

SP: That’s right. Several years ago, I lost 80 pounds and I did it old school—eating healthy and exercising. I became a certified fitness instructor and I’m Board Chair at Langs Community Health Centre in Cambridge.

WL: Any advice to budding filmmakers?

SP: Don’t be afraid to chase your dream, whatever that dream may be. I know that sounds cliché, but it takes guts to go for it!

And I would also say, never stop being curious. Walt Disney said, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

Toxic Beauty is currently available on the WLM CBC Gem streaming service.

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Passion For Fostering A Lifelong Love For Music THERE IS SOMETHING universal about music. “Music is so unique,” Jordyn Severin, the Owner of Marie-Rose Music Studio, explains. “It can travel across different cultures, languages and age groups. It can facilitate interactions between groups of people who wouldn’t ordinarily cross paths.

It helps to bring communities together in a way that seems almost magical.”

In September 2021, Marie-Rose Music Studio expanded from Jordyn’s basement studio to a new, larger studio in LaSalle. The studio has grown from 120 students in May of 2021 to a whopping 300 students and twelve teachers by January of 2022.

“My goal is to give everyone access to high quality music education.”

Jordyn explains. “I want to share with everyone how wonderful music can be.

When it comes to children, learning an instrument provides them with skills and strategies that are transferable across all parts of their lives and helps them to grow to become contributing members of our community.”

Jordyn encourages parents to introduce music into their children’s lives at an early age.

“The younger you start, the more the music becomes part of your life and practice becomes a daily routine,” Jordyn explains. “I find that is the best way to foster a love for music that lasts a lifetime. I offer group music classes to children as young as two years old through our Music For Young Children Program. We highly recommend this program for young children because it gives them a fun, well-rounded approach to learning music.”

Marie-Rose Music Studio offers both group classes and private lessons. All instructors are highly qualified professionals who specialize in teaching music to children.

“We have grown over the last few months to twelve different instructors.

Each instructor has different specialties, stories and experiences to pass on to our students.” Jordyn states. “We offer lessons for drums, guitar, ukulele, voice, piano and music theory. We can work with each family to find out what would be the best fit for their child. All of our instructors are exceptionally gifted with working with beginners and students of all ages.

In addition, Marie-Rose Music Studio offers a unique variety of opportunities for young musicians to connect with their community. Throughout the Fall Semester, the Marie-Rose Christmas Choir rehearsed each week to prepare a variety of Christmas songs for a community performance at Zehrs Malden. The studio also held multiple recitals for their private and group music students at the studio so students would have the opportunity to perform for an audience. Their next recitals are scheduled for the end of June.

In terms of community, Jordyn is excited to give back to her native LaSalle.

“I grew up in LaSalle,” Jordyn explains. “I went to school in LaSalle. I played sports in LaSalle. When I was going to the University of Windsor for my undergraduate degree, I lived in LaSalle. It’s really exciting to be growing my own small business in my hometown!”

Ready to make music part of your life? Contact Marie-Rose Music Studio today at 519-300-1774 or visit marierosemusic.com to register online!

1700 Sprucewood, LaSalle | 519-300-1774 | Register today at marierosemusic.com

ALICE ASPINALL

BY THE NUMBERS How a Walkerville Math Teacher Earned The Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO

inspired her. She grew up in Harrow and says that she enjoyed school.

“I thought I would be a teacher for as long as I can remember,” she says.

“I loved art, but I really enjoyed math starting in grade twelve and decided to pursue a degree in it.”

She attended the University of Windsor, where she completed a concurrent honours BA in math and education.

So, what are these “innovative strategies” Alice employs to “help students develop a greater understanding of math concepts”?

“In the last five or six years, math classes have been changing from a traditional classroom to a ‘thinking classroom,’” she explains.

The concept derives from research by Peter Liljedahl of Simon Fraser University, which he explains in his book Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Grades K-12: 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning.

“We don’t implement all fourteen frameworks,” Alice continues, “but using a few of them has transformed the climate in the classroom.”

In pre-pandemic days, this took the form of frequent and random groupings of students, getting students to work with peers, switching it up often so that students worked with different peers at various times.

“It also involved turning the classroom into a collaborative space,” Alice says. “Having students get out of their seats and working on what Peter Liljedahl calls ‘vertical non-permanent surfaces’—otherwise known as chalkboards and whiteboards. We do this so that everyone can see each other’s work, see their solutions and follow their thinking while solving problems.”

As the COVID-19 global pandemic turned most of the world on its head, Alice adapted to the “new normal.” She alternated between in-class

s

WALKERVILLE Collegiate Institute math teacher, Alice Aspinall has a message for us: anyone can learn math.

Alice is among the latest recipients of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM, Certificate of Achievement. It was particularly noted that she received the award for her “innovative strategies help students develop a greater understanding of math concepts.”

“There is no such thing as a ‘math person,’” Alice tells Windsor Life. “We are all born with the ability to do math, but negative experiences with the subject sometimes creates ‘math anxiety.’ In my classroom, I work on ‘math mindsets,’ trying to get students to think more positively about math. This involves baby steps and a lot of dedicated practice, working out where that math anxiety is coming from, how can we turn it around and move past it.”

It is worth the effort because, when we get right down to it, the whole world is math. From calculating the area of a room in order to install new carpeting, counting back change at a convenience store, determining the newton meters required to correctly torque a fastener on a machine being built on a shop floor, to every area of science and technology. Calculators can’t bail us out every time.

Sometimes we actually have to allow numbers to occupy space in our brains. Mathematics is how we keep those numbers organized and interpret what they’re telling us.

Still, it can be daunting unless you have the right guide.

“I always start my classes with a mindfulness activity,” Alice says. “We reflect on how we feel about math. If there is a lot of negativity, we talk about what might happen in the class moving forward to help us get past those negative feelings. A very small success can turn it all around for a student. Just passing a quiz can do it. Everyone’s level of success is individual.”

Looking back at her own experience as a student, Alice says that she had many teachers along the way who

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teaching and online instruction as the corona virus case numbers dictated. A bright spot for her amid the disruption was learning new technology.

“I’m a pretty tech savvy person,” she says, “so I enjoyed learning the new programs we used to teach online.”

A couple of side projects Alice had going proved helpful during the interruption caused by the corona virus: writing children’s books and producing short YouTube videos explaining math concepts. To date, Alice has authored three books: Everyone Can Learn Math (published in 2019), Look for the Math Around You (published in 2021), and Let’s Explore Math A Journey in Four Parts (published in 2021).

“The books are geared toward children— they are totally different from my job,” Alice points out. “I started doing this a few years ago because of my own children. The books work to break down stereotypes that can stand in the way of us learning about math.”

Alice describes her YouTube tutorials as quick refreshers on what she covers in class.

They are not filmed in the classroom, but employ simple graphics. They do not replace classroom instruction, but are intended to supplement those lessons.

“If a student is working at home and needs guidance, they can watch a video and get some help,” she says. “There are more than eighty videos and they’re usually pretty short, straight to the point, not full lessons. They focus on solving a problem from start to finish, not with a whole lot of explanation. The kids do enjoy them.”

What can parents do to help their kids improve in math?

“First, parents should be aware of the words and vocabulary they use around their children,” Alice advises. “You don’t want to pass on negative feelings about math, saying things like: ‘I always hated math.’”

For parents who are not proficient in math, Alice recommends learning the math lessons along with their children.

“If you’re not feeling confident about it and your child is having difficulty with math homework, you can take it as an opportunity to relearn it with them, saying: ‘I didn’t learn this well when I was in school, but let me try with you.’ That promotes a growth mindset.”

To learn more about Alice and her books, visit everyonecanlearnmath.com.

To view her math videos, go to YouTube and search Everyone Can Learn Math | Alice WLM Aspinall.

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