Windsor Life Magazine February/March 2024

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

PHOG LOUNGE

CELEBRATING TWO DECADES

SCRATCHING THE FLINT

RETURN OF THE TREWS THE BAND WITH A BIG HEART

AWARD-WINNING NOIR FICTION

VISIT US AT

windsorlife.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 www.windsorlife.com $ 2.95

African

Safari A WINDSOR COUPLE ENJOYS ADVENTURE IN EAST AFRICA

Catch the madness at Caesars Windsor, where basketball enthusiasts thrive. Enjoy intimate game day action featuring 98 inch screens in The House Sports Lounge, indulge in fan-favourite food and drinks in the ultimate sports den at Legends Sports Bar, or experience full-service and 24/7 kiosk sports betting at Caesars Sportsbook. Get in on the action at caesarswindsor.com.

PlaySmart. 1-866-531-2600 ConnexOntario Problem Gambling Services. Must be 19 years of age or older to enter the casino and all other outlets. Those who have been trespassed from Caesars Windsor and/or self-excluded from any OLG or Caesars property are not eligible to attend Caesars Windsor or related outlets, participate in promotions or redeem offers. The Caesars brand and related trademarks are owned by Caesars License Company, LLC and its affiliated companies. Used with permission.

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Dr. Sherman and Aline Duval RN were two of the first BOTOX® and Natural Filler Injectors in Windsor and Essex County going back to 2001 which gives them over a combined 45 years experience! Both Dr. Sherman and Aline love to help people feel their absolute best and are excited to part of this continual growing industry.

Dr. Sherman chooses the best to be part of her team, and Dr. Sherman and Aline are the BEST! When you leave Coral you will feel pampered, never rushed, no pressure, and we will help you look as young as you feel!

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QUALITY • RELIABILITY • SERVICE FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 VOLUME 31, ISSUE 2

1 CONTRIBUTING1 Matthew St. Amand WRITERS 1 Karen Tinsley

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Robert E. Robinson

1 Michael Seguin

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carol Garant

1 Sooter’s Photography 1 Frank Dayus 1 Steve Biro 1 Ann Baggley 1 David Hou 1 Shane Chiasson 1 David Bastedo 1 Debbie James

COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • RESIDENTIAL

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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.

The publishers assume no responsibility to return unsolicited editorial or graphic material. Windsor Life Magazine is a registered trademark of Campbell McGregor Garant Publishing Incorporated, Suite 318-5060 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor, Ontario N8T 1C1. Telephone (519) 979-5433, Fax (519) 979-9237. All rights reserved. ISSN 11955694.

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WHY SHOULD MY HEARING BE TESTED AS AN ADULT? Hearing is one of our most important senses! It allows us to not only communicate optimally with others but also keeps us present and aware within our surroundings. Sound provides stimulation to the brain, keeping connections working as they should and contributing to overall brain health. While hearing does continue to decline as we age, early detection and treatment of hearing loss is key to preserving as much hearing and brain stimulation as possible, keeping us feeling younger and enjoying a better quality of life.

There can be many signs that your hearing needs to be checked, such as: • Asking others to repeat themselves often or finding that most people ‘mumble’ • Others telling you that your own voice is too loud • Needing the volume to be higher for things like television or music • Having more difficulty with the clarity of speech in noisy environments • Avoiding social situations due to feeling left out or unable to enjoy the conversation • Missing audible indicators such as doorbells, home safety alarms, sirens and sounds when driving or walking outside • Family history of hearing loss • History of significant ear infections or other direct trauma to the ears • Working in loud noise for many years • Not wearing hearing protection in the past when in significant noise • Having loud recreational hobbies such as hunting, playing an instrument or attending concerts • Having difficulty understanding others over the phone • Being over the age of 60 • Having a chronic illness such as diabetes or heart disease • Noticing tinnitus (‘ringing’ or other noise in the ears without obvious cause) of either sudden or gradual onset • Experiencing dizziness or vertigo • Having undergone chemotherapy or other course of toxic medication If you are noticing one or more of these indicators of possible hearing loss, it is a good idea to schedule a hearing test! There are readily available treatments and communication strategies that will help!

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ON THE COVER An elephant photographed in Tarangire Park during Debbie and Frank Dayus’ recent trip to East Africa.

See page 12

DEPARTMENTS

PHOTO BY ANN BAGGLEY

Photography by Frank Dayus

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FEATURES

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BIG WIDE WORLD

AWARD-WINNING ACTRESS

Elizabeth Adams Leaves Her Mark on the Stratford Stage

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NEW AND NOTICED BON APPETIT!

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WSO IN 2024

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ONTARIO 211 SERVICES

The Phone Number You Need to Know

UNPREDICTABLE NOIR

Vern Smith’s Newest Award-Winning Novel

A New Executive Director Leads The Windsor Symphony Orchestra 30

THE TREWS

Bringing Kitchen Party Culture Back to Caesars Windsor

Windsor Music/Arts Venue Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary

Windsor Couple Enjoys An African Safari Adventure 20

PHOG LOUNGE

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Publisher’s Note The first edition of the year always presents us with a few challenges. Firstly, we are just coming off our Holiday shutdown and getting back in both mode and mood is seemingly a long, slow process.

We have enjoyed the time with family and friends and now realize that we need to get back to presenting our readers with the stories of the great things that continue to evolve in Canada’s most active community.

Then there is the challenge of our constantly changing weather. The Holidays were indeed balmy with temperatures in the “we only need a sweater” range. Now, as I write this, stepping outside is an adventure into the “I am breathing in ice” realm.

The weather folks are, of course, predicting thunderstorms by the middle of next week.

I can only wait to see if that becomes reality.

Now back to our community. Seemingly every week announcements are made about more high-tech investment coming our way. And why not? Our workforce has, for as long as I can remember, proven to be the best when it comes to building great products.

With new products coming to Windsor Assembly, increased production at Ford Engine and many new ventures being built to support the EV industry, we can look forward to growth in all areas.

Now to a personal story. On page 30 of this issue, we tell the story of a stubborn man, who even under the advice of his doctor, decided not to go back to the hospital following surgery. I am that guy. My stubbornness could have resulted in a bad outcome if my wife had not taken it upon herself to find answers and quickly.

My wife got those answers by calling 211. The reason I am having this story told is that I wish to thank everyone involved at 211 and to also let others know about their incredible, and relatively little-known service. Several times I have mentioned 211, even to medical practitioners, and have been met with questions as to what they are and what they do.

More utilization of the 211 service will help to alleviate the burden on 911, 311, your family doctor, clinics, as well as some of the need for Emergency Room visits.

And it just might save your life.

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What does the First Home Savings Account mean for new buyers?

In the 2022 Federal Budget, Deputy Prime Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland announced a new tax-free plan to help more Canadians buy their first home and get into the housing market – the First Home Savings Account (FHSA).

Here are some of the basics you need to know if you plan to take advantage of this opportunity: Eligibility requirements – To be eligible to open an FHSA, a contributor must: be a resident of Canada, at least 18 years old and not have lived in a home they own in the year that the account is opened, or the previous four years.

Making contributions – Contributions to the plan will be tax deductible (like RRSP contributions), and growth inside an FHSA will be tax deferred (similar to RRSP and TFSA earnings). Eligible contributors will be able to contribute up to $8,000 per year to the First Home Savings Account (FHSA), up to a lifetime maximum of $40,000.

Using the funds – Account holders will have 15 years from account opening to use the funds in the FHSA towards the purchase of a home. After making a tax-free withdrawal towards the purchase of a home, the account must be closed within one year, and an FHSA cannot be opened in the future. Withdrawals for any purpose other than purchasing a first home will be fully taxable in the year of withdrawal.

Something to note, is that the FHSA cannot be used along with the RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP).

The federal government has not yet announced when in 2023 the FHSA will be available or the finer details such as qualifying investments and naming beneficiaries on this account.

Bottom Line Both the FHSA and HBP are effective strategies to use if you are savings for your first home. Which one you choose really depends on which strategy will work best for you and help you achieve your goals.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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BIG WILD WORLD

Windsor Couple Dipped into their Bucket List for the Adventure of a Lifetime STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK DAYUS

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FOR MOST PEOPLE, places like Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, and Zanzibar are exotic names found in books and movies. For Windsor residents Debbie and Frank Dayus, these are but three destinations from an itinerary from a trip of a lifetime in East Africa.

“Friends had gone the year before. They had done almost the exact same trip,” Debbie says. “We took their lead and created our plan together based on theirs.”

“We went with Gate 1 Travel to book our safari and hotels,” Frank says.

“Once we arrived that made it very smooth, rather than doing it on our own.”

The travelers flew into legendary Kilimanjaro at the end of September.

“We would travel with Gate 1 Travel again,” the travelers say. “We didn’t have to think about where we were going to eat or go. We had a fabulous guide named Romwald Mtandika. He took us around and it was great.”

They continue: “One thing that people often worry about on trips like this is the food, what it might do to their system. We drank bottled water, but we had no problems with the food.”

The travelers spent two nights in Arusha recuperating from their long flight and checking out local sights. From there, they spent two nights in Tarangire National Park, located in Tanzania’s Manyara Region. Tarangire is approximately one hundred kilometers from the city of Arusha, and is known for its huge herds of elephants, giraffes, giant baobabs trees,

Opposite top to bottom: Elephants in Tarangire Park. For people who want to see elephants, this is the park; Water Buffalo in the Ngorongoro Crater; a cheetah sits on a mound of dirt searching for food.

This page clockwise from above: Lion resting under a tree in the Serengeti National Park; hippos in the Serengeti Park, in one of the few ponds in the park; Nedge Karani bird in the Ngorongoro Crater, a lush park with a tremendous number of birds; female lion chews on a zebra leg; Debbie and Frank Dayus in Ngorongoro Conservation on the last day of travelling in the park reserves.

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

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Eric LaMarre, Owner

519-94GLASS ( 944-5277 ) 1455 Matthew Brady, Windsor | www.bayviewglass.com

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fever tree forests, along with its swamps and sweeping vistas.

“We stayed in beautiful accommodations that had all the amenities we wanted—even mosquito nets around the bed,” the travelers recall.

The African Tulip was one of these hotels, a luxury accommodation located along the Serengeti road in the heart of Arusha.

Situated within an hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro international airport, many travelers find the hotel a convenient launchpad for safari adventures.

“Every place we stayed, we were met at the door with hot towels,” they say. “It’s very dusty and it was good to wash off a bit after arriving! Hotel staff also met us with a signature drink, a passion fruit juice. We really enjoyed that.”

Soon, it was time to get out into the bush among the animals they had waited a lifetime to see.

“We started off around six o’clock in the morning, driving down a bumpy dirt highway, before entering the reserve,” the travelers recall. “There we saw elephants, giraffes, cheetahs and lions all roaming around. I couldn’t believe how close they came to our vehicle!”

“We could have reached out an touched them,” the travelers say. “It was amazing.

We asked our guide if a leopard or a cheetah ever jumped into one of the jeeps and he said: ‘Yes they have!’ The guide knew his way around, and we always felt completely safe.”

At times, the travelers got an eyeful.

“It was mating season,” the travelers say with a laugh. “We certainly got to see the animals in their natural state! They didn’t care if we were only five feet away from them. They went about their business without a care in the world!”

They continue: “It was great being so close to the animals We’d be driving down a path and a leopard might suddenly pop out of the tall grass. Romi, our guide, saw a cheetah and knew exactly where it would come out into the open. He parked our jeep at the side of the road next to a mound of dirt. A few minutes later, the cheetah came out of the grass and jumped onto the mound. He was searching for his food and paid no attention to us.”

“We weren’t afraid,” Debbie adds. “It was as if there was an understanding between us and the animals: ‘You stay in your space.

We’ll stay in ours!’”

“While sitting in the jeep, we saw a group of lions chewing on a zebra, like you or

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Andrea Thielk Frank Saroli

Brian Nolan

Donald Leschied

Jacob Benson

Mary-Ann Keefner

Sheila MacKinnon

Wanda Shreve

John Jedlinski

Peter Hrastovec Jessica Koper

Business Law ~ Wills & Estates ~ Commercial Leasing ~ Real Property ~ Condominium Law and Development 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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I chewing on a drumstick!” the travelers say. “We got to see lions mate, as well as the ostriches. It was interesting to see the male ostriches do a dance as they approached the females. You don’t see that at the zoo. We saw hyenas feeding on a wildebeest.”

Their guide operated, primarily, with instincts honed by years of experience. There were no weapons visible in the jeep in case an animal decided to join the group in the safari vehicle. That said, there were well-armed guards at the entrances to the reserves.

“The guards at the gates had AK47s,” Frank says. “They’re guarding against poachers, which was a very big problem. We asked our guide: ‘What do they do with poachers?’

He said: ‘They shoot them.’”

“The only animal we didn’t see right up close was a rhinoceros,” the travelers say.

“We saw one quite a ways away,” the travelers note. “With my camera lens, I got a half decent picture of it. Because of poachers and past hunting, they’re almost extinct.”

Debbie and Frank spent three days in the Serengeti.

“We stayed at a bush camp,” the travelers explain. “Everything there was brought into the reserve from outside. Even the wood they burned in the fire was brought in. They won’t even pull branches from a fallen tree in the reserve. They just leave it.”

They continue: “The camp tents were incredible. We each had our own tent that had a huge bedroom and a washroom. If you wanted a hot shower, you called down to the check-in area, and a bucket of hot water was brought to the tent. The bush camp ran on solar power—we had full power all night. It was like being in a hotel.”

Two things the travelers say booked on their own during the adventure was a balloon ride in Zanzibar and a grand lobster meal on a beach, which included lobster rolls, lobster bisque, lobster salad, and a main course of—lobster.

“I got my lobster fill that night!” Debbie says. “The whole trip was everything we hoped it would be and a lot more.”

“Our itinerary was go-go-go, nonstop,” Frank says. “From the time we met our guide at six a.m., to when we said goodbye, every moment of the day was planned. There was time to relax, of course, but when we got up in the morning we just went!”

Would the travelers say go on this trip again?

“In a heartbeat,” they say. “There is so much of the world to see, we’re at a point where we want to see different things, but we would recommend this safari experience to anyone.”

WLM

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Photo: Leah Evola @leova.studio

Photo: Leah Evola @leova.studio

A NEW ERA FOR HEALTHY IMAGE Healthy Image Center might have a new look; but they have the same exceptional care for you and your skin needs. Dr. Jerry Tan’s office took on a major renovation throughout the summer; revealing a bright and refreshing space that aligns with the detailed and high quality patient care their team is known for.

MEET WINDSOR’S SKIN SPECIALIST Dr. Tan is a world-renowned board certified dermatologist and has been in practice in Windsor Ontario for over 30 years. He is known for his extensive knowledge and specialty in acne , rosacea and beyond. He also works as a consultant, advisor, and/or an investigator for multiple companies in skin care, lasers, injectable fillers and pharmaceutical companies.

“While growing up, I had my own struggles with my complexion,” Dr. Tan explains. “I grew up in Vancouver, going to elementary and high school

there during the 1970s. Tough enough being recent immigrants, Asian in a predominantly white community and awkward as teenagers, my sister and I were also struggling with acne. I learned firsthand about the embarrassment and stigmatization about not just my skin colour but the red pimples on my face.”

In his dermatological and aesthetic practices, Dr. Tan helps people with a range of skin and hair conditions.

However, he recognizes that those with acne, acne scarring, and hair loss are most burdened by anguish and frustration. “There’s a cruel reality with acne - that as acne improves with treatment” he says, “patients may be left with pigment stains and scars. It was clear that my work wasn’t done until I addressed those complications too and that’s when I added chemical peels, lasers, microneedling, and fillers.” “Dermatology to aesthetic work was a natural progression,” Dr. Tan continues. “From the improvement of acne right into improving acne scars. After all, a person’s face is so readily visible, facial conditions can have profound effects on the psyche of those affected.”

DO YOU HAVE COSMETIC/SKIN CONCERNS? “No matter the skin or hair issue,” he says, “if you’re concerned, it’s worthwhile looking into further.” The Healthy Image Center staff are thoughtful and person-oriented and understand that when people come to them with skin/hair problems, they deserve answers to the following 3 questions: What is the diagnosis? Why did it develop? How can it be treated?

Whether it’s spots on the skin or lines on the face, some people are uncertain about how and with whom to seek a consultation. We need to establish trust when it comes to our health.

“It might be helping them with clear answers, ensuring they have all treatment options explained, providing them the opportunity to participate in decision-making, and offering treatments with positive results. Dr. Tan says; “We specialize in treatment programs for people with acne, acne scarring, rosacea, pigmentation, hair loss, sun damage, and aging skin,”

YOU DESERVE THE BEST IN COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY. “For almost every skin condition there is an overabundance of information (and misinformation) so that choosing the right skin care products and procedures can be confusing. We help patients understand their options.” Dr. Tan consults with patients with medical dermatology problems by referral from their physicians, and with aesthetic concerns by self-referral. The medical aestheticians and dermatology nurses at the Healthy Image also provide complimentary aesthetic assessments and can bring in Dr. Tan as necessary.

Our nurses and aestheticians are regularly updated in their knowledge and skills and overseen and personally trained by Dr. Tan.

TIPS FOR HEALTHY SKIN

Photos: Leah Evola @leova.studio

ACNE

The first step to better skin health is contacting Healthy Image Center and booking an appointment. More information about the services that Dr. Tan and his team provide can be found on the Healthy Image Center website healthyimage.ca, or contacting the center at 519-971-9542.

Prevention: Optimize sleep and rest. Manage stress. Maintain a low glycemic index diet. “ Avoid dairy. Avoid products that block skin pores. Treatment: Acne cleansers and serums* (containing retinols, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, alpha or beta hydroxyacids). Medical treatments (see your family doctor or dermatologist). Correction: Red marks - vascular lasers. Pigmentation -fading creams, lasers. Scarring - retinol creams and procedures below

ROSACEA & BLOOD VESSEL LINES Prevention: Optimize sleep and rest. Manage stress. Use sun protection. Avoid: Alcohol, heat, extreme exercise, hot spicy foods. Treatment: Medical treatments if pimples present (see your family doctor or dermatologist). Correction: Redness or blood vessel lines vascular lasers.

FACIAL LINES AND WRINKLES

Prevention: Sun protection: Wear hats, clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreens (> 30 SPF, UVA/UVB, minerals). Treatment: Retinol creams. Vitamin C serums. Correction: Facial fillers. Botulinum toxin. Resurfacing. Microneedling. Face lifts.

HYPERPIGMENTATION

Prevention: Sun protection: Wear hats, clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreens (> 30 SPF, UVA/UVB, minerals). Treatment: Fading creams containing: hydroquinone, arbutin, niacinamide, kojic acid, tranexamic acid. Others: retinols, azelaic acid. Pills: tranexamic acid.

Correction: Facial peels. Resurfacing lasers. Pigment treatment lasers

ACNE SCARS

Prevention: Early, effective treatment of acne. Treatment: Retinol creams. Correction: Microneedling. Laser resurfacing. Facial peels. Fillers. Subcision. Steroid injections (for thickened scars).

SUN DAMAGE

Prevention: Sun protection: Wear hats, clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreens (> 30 SPF, UVA/UVB, minerals). Treatment: Retinol creams. Vitamin C serums. Correction: Resurfacing - peels, lasers. Microneedling.

HAIR LOSS

Prevention: Practice gentle hair grooming. Avoid traction on hair roots. Avoid hot oils.

Treatment: Obtain proper diagnosis. Treatment will vary with diagnosis. Roots can be stimulated with topical/oral minoxidil. Nutritional hair supplements may help. Correction: Platelet rich plasma injections. Hair transplantion. Hair prostheses.

LIVING ON A LIGHTED STAGE A Windsor-Born Actress Receives an Award Recognizing Her Commitment To Her Craft STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND THE PARADOXES INHERENT in creating art are never more apparent than they are in acting. Playing a fictional role provides an actress with a layer of protection, while at the same time, to affect an audience’s emotions, the role must possess some humanity from the artist, herself.

No one knows this better than Windsor native, Elizabeth Adams, a professional actress in Stratford who received the 2023 Mary Savidge Award for demonstrating outstanding commitment to her craft. As a Stratford actress, this is like being named MVP of an all-star team.

“The best actors allow themselves to be seen,” Elizabeth says. “What makes a good actor? Harnessing what is innately you and moving that through the story.”

However, Elizabeth’s passion for drama nearly ended before it began.

“I did my first audition at age five or six for a role in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever for a community group,” she recalls. “I was chosen to play the angel. The other kids trying

for that part were ten to twelve years old. But I didn’t end up taking the part! I thought everyone was laughing at me when they applauded my audition.”

Elizabeth eventually got past the misunderstanding and gave the stage another try.

“I was a shy kid,” she remembers. “I know that sounds like a contradiction, but I think it’s different because, you have this level of protection playing a character: ‘It’s not me!’”

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Clockwise from top: Elizabeth Adams, 2023. Photo by Ann Baggley; Elizabeth portraying Rosa Intrugli in Stratford Festival’s 2023 production of Grand Magic. Photo by David Hou. www.stratfordfestival.ca/GrandMagic; Elizabeth portraying Katharine in Stratford Festival’s 2023 production of Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost. Photo by David Hou. www.stratfordfestival.ca/LovesLaboursLost

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“I started doing summer theatre camp in grade school.” Elizabeth continues: “I remember the summer before high school, preparing to audition for the Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts, lying in my bed at night and having the conviction that I would, one day, be a professional actor. I was impatient to get there.”

Elizabeth passed her audition at WCCA in 2014, and studied drama, dance and vocal there. She continued doing theatre camp each summer and participated in Theatre Alive under the direction of Brian and Florence Raisbeck. Following graduation from WCCA in 2018, Elizabeth embarked on a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly known as Ryerson University).

“After theatre school, I wasn’t focused on theatre,” she explains, “and pursued roles in film and television. But it wasn’t meant to be—at that time, at least. I was lucky in theatre school and connected with an American manager and a Canadian agent, who had me auditioning for huge things.

I got very close to a few jobs that would have changed my life—but I just didn’t get them.”

In 2021, Elizabeth rethought her options, reappraised her ambitions. As her focus turned back toward the stage, she thought: “I just want to be at Stratford. I just want to do theatre again. Be in a small town. Focus on the work.”

If anything, this was setting the bar even higher for herself. According to Intermission Magazine, “many Canadian theatre actors consider the Stratford Festival to be the pinnacle of classical performance opportunities.” Countless theatregoers believe this, too.

Around the same time, one of Elizabeth’s former teachers, Dean Gabourie, who directed her in a production during theatre school, sent her an audition link for the Birmingham Conservatory at Stratford Festival—the festival’s artist incubator that provides actors with opportunities to develop their craft and refine their classical technique.

“I auditioned for the Birmingham Conservatory with a self-tape,” Elizabeth says.

“About nine hundred other people auditioned for nine spots.”

Elizabeth submitted her audition and hoped for the best. Soon after, she received a “call back.”

“They brought twenty applicants to Stratford to audition in person,” Elizabeth says. “That was followed by about two

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weeks of agonized waiting! Then, one of the producers sent me a cryptic email. There was no Subject line. The message said: ‘Hi Elizabeth, we have an offer for you. Give me a call.’ I called and she explained I had been accepted. I was so excited. I was living with my sister and her partner in Toronto at the time. Mentally, I said to myself: ‘Here we go!’”

As a member of the Birmingham Conservatory, Elizabeth is contracted like any other actor at the Stratford Festival but receives supplementary training.

“When we are in-season, I’m like any other actor,” she says. “The season runs from February/March until September/October, but the Conservatory is for emerging artists and gives them work opportunities.

In the off-season, we workshop plays. I played Cassandra in a production of the Greek tragedy, Agamemnon.”

And it was in this arena of artistic excellence that Elizabeth’s work ethic and commitment to her craft were recognized when she received the Mary Savidge Award.

“I was told my name had come up in the committee,” she recalls. “A group of elected actors and Festival employees decide who receives the award. When I heard it was me, I was shocked. I was not expecting it. Hard work feels implied when you’re chasing a dream, when you’re doing artistic work.

I do work hard. It feels nice to be recognized.”

Currently, Elizabeth is rehearsing an updated version of Anton Chekhov’s play Three Sisters.

“In the play I’m rehearsing now, Three Sisters, I portray the eldest sister, Olga, though I have always yearned to play Masha, the middle sister,” she says. “It’s interesting, in the Conservatory they cast you based on what will help you grow, and that’s the role I have. I want to play Masha because I identify with her more closely.

The role of Olga is the greater challenge.”

As her two years at the Birmingham Conservatory near their end, Elizabeth sets her sights once again on movies and TV. “Acting is not a linear career path!” she says. “I love movies, it is a dream. For whatever reason, my journey has brought me to Stratford. I recently moved back to Toronto to focus on film and television. Sometimes you’re a wrench and the people you’re auditioning for are looking for a hammer.

Auditioning is the job of the actor.”

You can find out what Elizabeth is doing next on Instagram at @eilisadams.

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Pharmacists/owners (l-r): Dennis Koren, Jeanine Nakhle and George El-Turk.

Pharmacy the Way It Used to Be THERE IS A VERY GOOD REASON the newest location of the rapidly growing HealthFirst Pharmacy Group is at 1200 University Avenue in west Windsor: when it comes to access to quality health care, this is one of the most under-serviced areas in southwestern Ontario. HealthFirst plans to change that.

“Our newest location on University Avenue has Windsor’s largest state-of-the-art Urgent Care facility, staffed with nurses and Emergency Room physicians,” explains pharmacist and co-owner, Jeanine Nakhle. She and her partners, George El-Turk, and Dennis Koren are Windsor natives and began their careers as pharmacists here.

The University Avenue location will provide a wide range of medical care, including suturing, stitches, fracture management, casting, wound care, abscess drainage, vaccines, foreign object removal from eyes, IV antibiotic administration, EKGs, sexually transmitted infections, laboratory services on site, among other needed services. The HealthFirst Pharmacy Group is adept at identifying healthcare needs in the community and meeting those needs with specialized staff and services, which include compounding, fertility, and mental health.

The HealthFirst Pharmacy Group has grown rapidly over the past ten years opening ten locations in Windsor-Essex and one in Woodstock. Four clinics are affiliated with the group: McLean Medical Walk-In Clinic on Banwell, Core Medical Centre Urgent Care Clinic on Windsor Avenue in the downtown core, Advance Care Walk In Clinic on Wyandotte in Riverside, and LaSalle After-Hours Walk-In Clinic on Malden Road.

“It’s our desire to try and do it all for our patients,” says George. “With our new location, we’re trying to alleviate the Emergency Room waiting times and bridge the gap between your typical walk-in clinic and the ER with our highly trained staff.”

“It’s a higher level of care than a walk-in clinic,” Dennis adds.

Designated Manager/Pharmacist The group is also actively recruitPerry Ngan and ing family physicians to provide care Pharmacy Technician Karen Kupko. at the new site.

From its inception, the HealthFirst Pharmacy Group has distinguished itself with its personalized care and service, priding itself on being a “pharmacy the way it used to be.”

“We staff our locations appropriately so the pharmacist has time to sit down with patients and explain their medications, and to answer questions,” Jeanine says. “You’re not waiting hours for your prescriptions. Our designated manager and pharmacist at the new location is Perry Ngan, who speaks Cantonese, and our pharmacy technician is Karen Kupko.”

Jeanine continues: “It is very easy for people to transfer their medication profile to one of our HealthFirst Pharmacy locations. Just call any location and we will do the rest. We also offer free delivery city wide.”

The pharmacists who created HealthFirst Pharmacy Group live in the community they serve. They also believe in giving back to the community by sponsoring different organizations and teams.

To learn more about HealthFirst Pharmacy Group’s newest location at 1200 University Avenue, visit them online at www.theumc.ca or scan the QR code below. To learn more about the group visit www.healthfirstrx.ca.

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Since 1991, Kevin King has been a guiding force in financial services, establishing a reputation for excellence and trust. He recently founded The Wealth Center at 1224 County Rd. 22 in Emeryville, bringing together a dynamic team of experts, including Administration Manager Kathy Macyshyn, highly knowledgeable advisor Evan Carrick and the innovative Jack Sanko. This team represents a blend of experience, intelligence and fresh perspectives, dedicated to treating clients like family.

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Enbridge Gas recently responded to the urgent respite need for families caring for children with disabilities in Windsor/Essex.

For Riley (pictured) and 1200 other children and youth in our community, every time a news source shares these special announcements, more support is committed to the children with disabilities in our community. familyrespite.org

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THE HISTORY OF PHOG LOUNGE IN A STOLEN MOMENT For Two Decades Phog Lounge Has Played A Pivotal Role In The City’s Cultural Life STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND / PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE CHIASSON ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN AT PHOG LOUNGE—and usually does. The venerable venue/watering-hole/mainstage celebrated its 20th anniversary in January.

“I was out of town visiting my brother when it happened,” Phog Lounge owner Tom Lucier remembers. “My business partner at the time, Frank Incitti, just decided on January second 2004: ‘Huh, I think I’ll open tonight,’ even though we planned to have our grand opening a few weeks later!”

This is but one instance that demonstrates how Phog Lounge forced itself into existence.

“Before Phog, I went to journalism school and started a magazine called Windsor Vox with my now-ex-wife,” Tom says. “I enjoyed taking photos and writing stories, but the main work of a magazine is selling advertising, and I hated that.”

He continues: “The owners of Lift Lounge were among my first advertisers, and so was a coffee shop called Plato’s Blend. One day the Lift guys said they were getting out and asked me to take over. When I mentioned this to Frank, who owned Plato’s Blend, he said: ‘You want to do that?’ Well, I didn’t know how to pour a beer or wipe a table, but my dissatisfaction with selling ads outweighed my fears of trying something new.”

Even the venue’s name bumbled into existence.

“Frank and I were driving with some friends, and I asked him what we should call the bar,” Tom recalls. “He said ‘The Fog Cutter.’ I asked why he put those two words together. He said: ‘It’s a bar in Kingsville.’

And I said: ‘Why would we use someone else’s name?’”

Their friends threw around some names, each involving “fog.”

Finally someone suggested: “Fog Lounge.”

“I don’t like the look of a three-letter bar name, so we settled on ‘Phog Lounge,’” Tom says.

Frank understood the business aspects of Phog and Tom’s role was booking acts to bring patrons in. What sort of vetting process did Tom employ?

“I just said yes to everyone,” he says.

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Clockwise from above: Phog Lounge owner Tom Lucier loving the downtown vibe; piano player and performer Bree Baker Young (left) and singer/songwriter and visual artist “Batoolio”; major Windsor musical contributor Tony Coates and performer Michaela Gray, a new comer who also plays Open Mic along with her own solo shows; Kat Valentine, a regular performer at Open Mic Surgery on Mondays.

Over twenty years Tom said “yes” to a mesmerizing array of musicians and artists who brought shocking, soaring, scintillating work into the space. The first performer was Windsor DJ Francis Wax who took the stage in January 2004.

“In ’05, an artist came in and set up a ‘biting booth,’” Tom says.

Come again?

He laughs. “That was my reaction! They hung a purple curtain around a booth in the front and had a menu that people signed a waiver where they indicated where they wanted to be bitten, how severe, and giving their permission. The artist took people into the curtained area and bit them.

People came out all bruised, teeth marks on them. It was the only event of its kind that happened here. Prominent people from the arts community attended and participated.”

In 2007, Charlemagne (now known as Arkells and signed to Universal Records Canada) opened for a band called Die Mannequins. At one point during the Die Mannequins’ set, lead singer/guitarist Care Failure strolled out the front door—while still performing. Equipped with in-ear monitors and a remote guitar connection to the sound system inside Phog, Care walked onto University Avenue, stopping traffic, blasting power-chords the whole time.

“At one point, she climbed on the hood of a car that was stopped,” Tom says, “still playing, giving a full-on crotch-thrusting rock ’n’ roll performance.”

Sadly, Care Failure passed away in March 2023 at age thirty-six.

Tom recalls a visual artist asking to show work in Phog Lounge and proceeding to tape six sheets of lined notebook paper filled with pencil drawings onto a wall for a distinctly underwhelming display.

In 2022, artist Kalvin Mercier approached Tom about doing a show at Phog. Tom said “sure” without knowing who Kalvin was or having viewed his work.

“He brought in these huge pieces, the biggest we’ve ever had here,” Tom says. “He had to secure them to the walls with screws. I liked his stuff— sort of a Jean-Michel-Basquiat-thing going on. He sold a ton of work.”

Kalvin was known around Windsor by another name: Kurs.

Phog Lounge was not the first place Kalvin’s work was publicly shown.

To the dismay of home and business owners, and the City of Windsor, Kurs was a fervent “tagger,” marking people’s homes, storefronts, and city property with unwanted spraypainted renderings. He quickly became a pariah in Windsor and in local media.

“He wanted to make amends for what he’d done,” Tom continues. “I felt he was sincere about that. People came in and looked at the work without knowing who he was.”

The reality of running a small business lurks beneath the surface at all times, like a shark circling a small fishing vessel. The recession of 2008 body-slammed much of the world’s economy and threatened to shutter

Phog. Tom and Frank hung on. The following year, Phog won the much-publicized CBC Radio 3 Searchlight Contest for Best Live Music Venue in Canada.

“We were about to close when that happened,” Tom says, “but that turned it all around. We had a big party, Phog Fest, and the revenue from that saved the business.”

As part of the venue’s natural evolution, Frank went his own way in 2015.

If one act embodies the “Anything can happen at Phog Lounge—and usually does” ethic of the venue, it was June 2009 when renowned BMX freestyle rider Chase Gouin asked to perform there. As Tom repeatedly said “I’m not sure…” Chase brought in his bike, cleared an area in front of the stage and proceeded to freestyle before a spellbound audience.

“That was easily one of the craziest things to happen here,” Tom says.

For two decades Phog Lounge has been a vital cultural hub supporting and connecting artists, musicians, writers, filmmakers, students, entrepreneurs, small business owners and generally doing its leftfield best to enrich the City of Windsor.

To view photographic and video evidence of Care Failure’s show (and traffic-stopping performance) and Chase Gouin’s two-wheeled magic, along with much more, visit Phog Lounge online at www.facebook.com/phoglounge, www.instagram.com/phoglounge and @phogtom on YouTube.

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Leading The Windsor Symphony Orchestra

Patti Lauzon Brings Passion and a Wealth of Experience to Her New Role

THE BEST WORKS OF ART are those that come full circle. The communications and fund-raising career of Patti Lauzon came full circle when she accepted the role as new Executive Director of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO).

“My first public relations job after graduating college was working here, during the 1992/93 WSO season,” Patti says. “I started as a marketing intern. I was here for a couple of years and then went off and had a wonderful career—which has led me back where I started. I see it as, everything I have done leading up to this point has prepared me for this role.”

And Patti has accomplished quite a lot during the intervening time.

STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO

“I’m proud of the work I’ve done in the community,” she says. “When I left the WSO, I focused on the not-for-profit realm, working as the marketing manager for the Teen Health Center for five years. Then I moved on to the Canadian Mental Health Association where I was a director, working in communications and fund raising, covering not only Windsor-Essex but Sarnia-Lambton, as well.”

After approximately eight years in that role, Patti moved on to the University of Windsor as the Director of the Alumni Office, a position she remained in for ten years.

“The alumni work focused on community outreach and communications,” Patti recalls. “We had a very active board. I’m really proud of the community aspect of the outreach that we did.”

After thirty years away from the WSO, how does Patti think it’s change during that time?

“I remember the education concerts,” she says. “That’s one way the orchestra has grown. Its outreach and public interaction is flourishing. You know, when you see kids in the schools watching a performance and getting excited by the symphony, or going to the long-term care retirement homes and seeing our older population and how music can spark so many memories for them. It’s challenging, absolutely. The sheer need for funds to keep the organization alive is tremendous, but the end product is powerful.”

During 2023, the WSO performed for over 9,100 students and plans to do the same in 2024.

For as transforming as the WSO’s performances are for music lovers, the brass tacks of this world assert themselves—like a great many things in human life, art requires funding. Fundraising is no easy thing but is vital.

It’s the heart pumping the blood keeping crucial programs and institutions alive.

“It is so important,” Patti explains. “You can’t have an active, flourishing organization like the WSO without the support of donors and patrons, sponsors, corporate and individuals. All of these people are important to maintaining the organization. I’m only in week two of this new role, but I have met some of our key donors and look forward to building those relationships.”

Top: Patti Lauzon, the new Executive Director of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra. Left (l-r): Patti Lauzon with Board President Deborah Severs, and Retiring Executive Director Sheila Wisdom. Photo courtesy of WSO.

She continues: “The motivation for me—making this move, being fortunate to be offered this role—it’s all about building and maintaining this valuable organization that benefits the community where I live and raise my family. Like so many people, I cannot imagine Windsor without the WSO.” Just as the symphony orchestra is comprised of numerous moving parts, disparate instruments—the piccolo, the kettle drum, the oboe, the violin—coming together under the direction of a guiding force to produce transcendent music, the mechanism behind the scenes, keeping everything running, is just as complex. Indeed, in March of next year the WSO will have over 150 musicians and chorus on stage for the performance of Brahms’ German Requiem.

So too is the organization behind the scenes working together, harnessing different skillsets, to keep the lifeblood pumping. To everyone involved, it’s more than a job.

“Everybody has something that ignites them,” Patti says. “I can’t imagine someone coming to a live WSO performance and not feeling excited and overjoyed by it. That was the motivation for me to make this move.”

She says: “I’m not a physical marathon runner, but in some of my jobs, it’s equivalent to the work of training and running the marathon, feeling very accomplished when you hit those goals.

Many of us in communications and fundraising are the kinds of people who enjoy that challenge, and are satisfied with it.”

Regarding Patti coming on board at the WSO, Deborah Severs, President, Windsor Symphony Society Board of Directors and chair of the Recruit Committee says: “We look forward to building on the success under Sheila Wisdom’s time as Executive Director as we embark on a new chapter in our orchestra’s history under Patti’s stewardship.”

. . . is s a O

Patti is quick to note that she has big shoes to fill.

“Sheila Wisdom—honestly—has been so gracious,” Patti says.

“She has been here the first few weeks with me, so we’ve had a very good transition.”

“I feel very good joining an organization that has such an amazing group!” Patti says. “Our talented musicians and amazing administrative staff. This team works hard to make sure we all know about the symphony and that patrons enjoy the best experience. Then we have a Music Director like Robert Franz. He is an amazing leader. The board, too, has been so welcoming and open with their time, answering my many questions. I couldn’t ask for a more accepting, open environment!”

What makes Patti such a great fit in her knew role is that she is, foremost, a fan of the WSO. “The nice thing, I started last week and on the weekend, we had Messiah,” she says. “For me, it’s a great opportunity to meet audience members, donors, and to see the orchestra. It reminded me of the work we do every day resulting in this wonderful experience.”

The month of December finished up with Holiday Pops. January ushered in the second half of the 2023/24 season with the Earthbeat concert which featured WSO’s principal second violinist, Émilie Paré, performing a violin solo. Composer Robert Rival appeared for the performance of his piece called Symphony No. 2 “Water”. On February 10/11, there is a Pops concert featuring a night of tango music and two world champion tango dancers live on stage with the orchestra. April 20/21, the WSO celebrates Superheroes with a Pops performance featuring music from Black Panther to Wonder Woman.

To learn more about the WSO, to view upcoming events, or to purchase tickets, visit them online at windsorsymphony.com. WLM

Creating your

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The Phone Number You Need To Know

How The Information Telephone Number 211 Was Instrumental in Saving a Local Man’s Life STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND / PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ONTARIO 211 SERVICES WHEN ROBERT sat on the living room couch and didn’t move for several hours, his wife Carol knew something was wrong.

It was January 2021, and Robert was just home following open heart surgery. The surgery had gone well, but his discomfort now that he was home worsened. He needed to urinate, but could not, and was immobilized by crippling back pain. Carol telephoned their general practitioner and put Robert on the line to speak to him.

“You need to go to the hospital,” the GP said. “You need to call 911.”

Casslyn Heil, Customer Contact Representative

“OK, I understand, thank you,” Robert said.

When he handed the phone back to Carol, he said: “I’m not going to the hospital for a sore back. Not during a pandemic.”

At her wits’ end, Carol ran a search online: “I need help, I have someone in severe pain.”

Among the top search results was 211.

Carol dialed the number. Following a brief recorded message, an actual person came on the line. The 211 Community Navigator asked a few questions to understand the situation. Carol was quickly put through to a medical practitioner who had some more questions. Once that person understood what was happening, she said: “Either you’re going to call 911, or I will. This is not a question, it’s a demand.”

Information telephone number 211 has existed since the 1970s in the United States and started as a pilot project in Toronto in 2002. It rolled out across the province of Ontario and the rest of Canada since that

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time. The motto of Ontario 211 Services is “Life can be hard. Getting answers can be easy.”

Who should call 211?

“Anybody,” says Rose Fioret CRS-DC, 211 Support Analyst based in Windsor.

“The whole purpose is to have an easy three-digit number available 24/7, mainly for community, social and local government information. Callers could be anyone looking for a number for an ambulance, crisis service or government service.”

She continues: “We have highly trained accredited Community Navigators taking the calls. They do an assessment and then guide the caller in the right direction using our database.”

“Callers might be seeking information about Alzheimer’s programs, or respite programs,” says Karen Milligan, Executive Director of Ontario 211 Services. “The requests for information are not specific to any particular income level or demographic. The calls cross those boundaries. Many of the programs we refer people to are delivered by small, non-profit organizations that do not have the budget to promote their services, so callers wouldn’t learn about them otherwise.”

Ontario 211 Services handles approximately 300,000 calls a year across the province. It provides information from more than 56,000 services and agencies across Ontario and the service is available in more than 150 languages. Communications via text message or online chat are also available for people who prefer those modes of contact.

Deanna Evans, Customer Contact Representative

Karen Milligan, Executive Director of Ontario 211 Services

Callers are not asked to provide personal information. According to the Ontario 211 Services website: “When an individual contacts 211, we collect anonymized data about where they are located and what their needs are, service availability gaps and barriers. By sharing that information with others, we can help to inform policy and funding decisions.”

The 211 Community Navigators ask for the caller’s postal code in order to recommend services and solutions that are as geographically close to the caller as possible. From there, questions asked by 211 personnel are for them to understand the purpose of the call so they can provide the best referral.

“We have caring, skilled people answering our calls,” Rose says. “They are amazing people and they are accredited through Inform USA (formerly AIRS). A unique part of our service is that we do follow-up calls, often for vulnerable callers, just to make sure our referrals are actually helping people, or to find if there are inaccuracies in our database, or a service has run out of funds.”

In 2023, according to Ontario 211 Services, the Top Five Needs in Essex County were: Consumer Services, Health, Housing, Information Services and Legal/Public Safety.

The Top Five Unmet Needs in Essex County in 2023 were: Health, Housing, Income Support/Financial Assistance, Individual/Family Services and Legal/Public Safety.

These lists are reviewed by decision makers and sometimes lead to the creation of new programs. For instance, a few years ago, calls from low-income seniors in need of dental care had to be categorized as an

unmet need. The aggregate data collected by 211 can serve as a valuable source for stakeholders in deciding to implement a program such as dental care for seniors, for which there are now programs.

And sometimes the voice of 211 is there to say: “Either you’re going to call 911, or I will…”

The 211 medical practitioner called 911 for Robert. Although the pandemic was in full thrall, the ambulance arrived very quickly—later, Robert wondered if 211 had some influence over that. The looks on the faces of the EMTs as they evaluated Robert told him his situation was more dire than he first thought. They rushed him to the hospital, taking the back roads so the ride was less bumpy for him. Once there, it was determined Robert had an internal bleed due to post surgery complication with his blood-thinning medication. The excruciating pain in his back was the result of accumulated blood pooling in that area. There was so much blood, it pressed against his urinary tract rendering him unable to urinate.

“Without 211, and without the operator being so emphatic about us calling 911, I might not have made it through the night,” Robert says. “It was close. It didn’t seem so at the time, but I was in a lot of trouble. Once at the hospital, I had doctors, various specialists looking at me because the blood loss and build-up had caused so many problems.

If it weren’t for 211, I would have died. It’s unquestionable.”

“We’re a human service,” Rose says.

“Our navigators are skilled at asking probing questions to get a handle on the caller’s unique situation,” Karen adds. “With some programs, there are eligibility rules, so we need to ask questions to understand if the caller qualifies. It’s all about making the best referral.”

In Ontario, the service is managed by Ontario 211 Services, a non-profit agency that provides strategic direction and oversight. A voluntary Board of Directors govern Ontario 211 Services. It receives funding from the provincial government, various municipal governments and the United Way. “People who call 211 need help and don’t know where to begin,” Karen says. “There are lots of opportunities, wonderful programs out there to support people. If you don’t know about them, you cannot access them. Awareness is necessary. We are here to guide people to the solutions they need.”

For more information about Ontario 211Services, call or text 211, or visit them online at www.211southwest.ca.

WLM Back to Contents

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Back to Contents

The Trews are (l-r): drummer Chris Gormley, bassist Jack Syperek, guitarists/vocalists John-Angus MacDonald and Colin MacDonald, and keyboardist Jeff Heisholt.

THE BAND WITH A BIG HEART

Exactly One Year After Their Last Concert Here, The Trews Bring “Kitchen Party Culture” Back To Caesars Windsor STORY BY KAREN TINSLEY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BASTEDO

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HAILING FROM ANTIGONISH, Nova Scotia, The Trews (Colin and John-Angus MacDonald on vocals and guitar respectively, bassist Jack Syperek, drummer Chris Gormley and keyboardist Jeff Heisholt) now call Hamilton, Ontario home.

Beginning their career as One I’d Trouser (a line from a song in the Monty Python movie The Meaning of Life), the band shortened their moniker to Trouser, which evolved to The Trews. A Scottish word for trousers, “trews” is also a play on the word “true”. John-Angus MacDonald explains, “The name sounded simple and catchy, plus we wanted to be true to ourselves and our music.”

In 2002, the band won a St. Catharines rock radio contest and landed a recording contract soon afterwards.

Their first full-length CD House of Ill Fame was released in 2003. The single “Not Ready to Go” hit number one on Canadian rock radio and was the most played song of 2004. The band was nominated as New Group of the Year at the 2004 Juno Awards and “Not Ready to Go” was nominated as 2005 Single of the Year. The album was certified platinum in Canada.

Their next LP Den of Thieves featured the single “Yearning” (the band’s second to reach #1). They were invited to share the stage with the Rolling Stones at Toronto’s Phoenix and opened for Robert Plant on his cross-Canada tour.

“Hold Me in Your Arms”, from their third album No Time for Later, premiered during the 2007 Grey Cup pre-game show and was immediately released on iTunes; the video reached #1 on MuchMusic and spent 22 weeks in Canada’s Top Ten. The band was nominated for two 2009 Junos: Album of the Year and Group of the Year.

The 2014 certified Gold single “Highway Of Heroes” refers to the stretch of Highway 401 where hundreds gather on bridges and overpasses to salute fallen soldiers as they are transported from CFB Trenton to the Toronto Coroner’s office.

John-Angus shares, “we wrote the song as a tribute to Captain Nichola Goddard and all who serve. I went to high school with Nichola in my hometown of Antigonish.

She hired us to play at the school assembly; our parents are friends to this day.”

In 2006, Captain Goddard was the first Canadian female soldier killed in Afghanistan. She was posthumously awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.

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The band has supported the Captain Nichola Goddard Foundation, which provides national funding to address the unique challenges of military life for servicewomen, Veteran women and their families.

Highway of Heroes was made available on iTunes in Canada only, with all proceeds going to the Canadian Hero Fund, a charity providing academic scholarships to families of soldiers killed in combat.

“When people literally hand us dogtags from family members when we’re playing “Highway of Heroes” I can’t tell you how much that means to us and moves us”, John-Angus says.

Another song, “God Speed Rebel”, was released in the midst of the pandemic in 2020. One of the first bands to record video using Zoom technology, all proceeds from this song (including YouTube views, Spotify and Apple Music streams) go to the Unison Benevolent Fund, a charity assisting the Canadian music community with counselling, financial support and other resources.

The Trews have also supported WARCHILD as well as animal shelters, soup kitchens and food banks in their adopted hometown of Hamilton.

More records, road trips and recognition The band’s fourth studio album Hope & Ruin was co-produced by John-Angus MacDonald and the Tragically Hip’s Gord Sinclair, recorded at the Hip’s own Bathouse Studio. The album received heavy airplay in Australia, resulting in touring that continent four times. The band also toured the UK and USA. In 2012, they supported Bruce Springsteen in Moncton, New Brunswick.

A few months later, the band issued the 7-song EP Thank You and I’m Sorry, featuring Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes. The single “The Power of Positive Drinking” received extensive airplay across Canada, reaching #1 on CBC radio.

The 5th full-length studio album, eponymously titled The Trews, was the band’s highest charting debut, reaching #1 on the Rock, Alternative and Independent Album charts and #3 overall in Canada.

To support their album Time Capsule, 20 songs (including 16 of their greatest hits and four new recordings), a 2016 Canadian tour was launched; in 2017, the band joined Weezer on tour.

Next up, “The New US” was released as a single from a forthcoming 2018 album. The song stirred up some controversy with its political lyrics; the second single,

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“Vintage Love” became the band’s 18th to chart Top Ten in Canada. The album, entitled ‘Civilianaires’ was released to great critical and commercial success. ‘Civilianaires’ was nominated Rock Album of the Year at the 2019 Juno awards—their sixth nomination to date.

The latest album Wanderer came out in 2021.

Their collaboration with Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes culminated in three blazing tracks on this record, emerging with the band’s fiercest and most accomplished collection of songs.

The Trews have performed here numerous times at county festivals and music halls over the years; they played The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor in 2022 with the Black Crowes.

On March 1, 2024, they return to The Colosseum with special guest Wide Mouth Mason.

John-Angus says, “our songs can feature fiddle, violin, bagpipes and accordion; I think these instruments and our melodies reflect a sense of communal playing and the ‘kitchen party’ culture that pays homage to the East Coast spirit.”

The Trews like to be at a venue one hour before a show.

“We peek out from behind the curtain to get a sense of the vibe. Colin does a thorough half-hour vocal warmup in his own space and we normally hang out and have a drink before we go on stage.”

Is there one song that was particularly challenging to write?

“The next one!” John-Angus laughs.

“That’s kind of an old songwriter’s joke, but it’s not that far from the truth. It’s always a challenge coming up with new songs; getting them all to the finish line initially seems impossible! The important thing for aspiring songwriters is to know it doesn’t come easy; everyone has dry spells and gets writer’s block.”

The Trews will be playing their Platinum-selling House of Ill Fame album in its entirety, as well as more hits from their celebrated discography. Joining them will be Wide Mouth Mason, a blues, rock and roots trio renowned for their memorable, agile live performances.

John-Angus says, “we’ve put out this elaborate 20th anniversary box set reissue, available now: a 24-page book, double vinyl CD with live music from the tour. We’re going to play this album all the way through; once this tour wraps up, we likely won’t be playing any of these deep cuts again.” WLM Back to Contents

UNDERSTANDING HEARING LOSS & REDISCOVERING LIFE’S MELODIES WHAT PRICE can be placed on hearing the voices of loved ones, hearing favourite piece of music, or simply the sounds of our surroundings as the world goes about its business? The team at Dion Hearing Center is keenly aware that too often these aspects of life slip away without people even knowing it.

Hearing loss does not announce itself, though there are many signs it is happening: struggling to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments. Asking others to repeat themselves or misunderstanding what they say. Or, frequently increasing the volume on the television, radio, or electronic devices.

“Hearing loss can affect any age group,” says Jason Dion, Hearing Instrument Specialist/Owner at Dion Hearing Centre. “A patient in her sixties came in, recently, and said she thought she just was missing parts of conversation, but after getting a hearing aid, she commented on how she suddenly noticed the radio playing in the front office, the sounds of traffic outside. When she went to work, she couldn’t believe how many little sounds in her environment had drifted away with her gradual hearing loss.”

Neglecting our hearing health can have serious consequences.

“When we have a hard time hearing, it increases our mental load,” Jason continues. “We’re trying to fill in those gaps we’re missing in conversations. This makes being in social settings more difficult, even unpleasant, which can lead to people avoiding social occasions and isolating themselves. This may bring on feelings of loneliness and depression. Hearing loss can also affect our balance, which may lead to related injuries due to falls. And the latest research shows that there is a possible connection between dementia and untreated hearing loss.”

Luckily, the Dion Hearing Centre is here to help, offering a wide range of services, such as hearing tests, hearing aid fitting and repairs, hearing protection, earwax removal, and an array of pricing packages.

“We offer a complementary hearing assessment for adults,” Jason explains. “It’s very important getting that initial baseline, particularly starting at age sixty, if not sooner.”

He continues: “More often than not, most clinics have a bundled approach. At Dion Hearing Centre, we do what fits our patients best, which is an unbundled approach where patients pay for what they need and save on what they don’t need.”

The difference with Dion Hearing Centre is the exceptional level of service each patient receives. “People can get hearing aids anywhere,” Jason says. “It’s the service that matters. People need to trust their hearing provider. They need to be comfortable. We educate our patients so they understand all of the options available to them and they can make informed decisions about their hearing health.”

In an effort to provide the most comprehensive service, Dion Hearing Centre offers a hearing aid adoption plan.

“Even if you didn’t get your hearing aid from us,” Jason explains, “we can perform hearing aid repairs, adjustments, preventative maintenance, and support you along your hearing health journey.”

When it comes to our hearing health, there is more to hearing aids than the price. “Patients have to feel comfortable with their hearing provider,” Jason says. “It’s a journey. We are here to help people along that journey.”

At Dion Hearing Centre, there are no hidden fees, Jason and his team work with most up-to-date technology and education. They are trusted by local physicians and offer customized treatment plans.

To learn more about how the Dion Hearing Centre can help you, or to schedule an appointment, visit www.dionhearing.com.

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A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR GROWTH

Two Parents Share their Reasons for Choosing a Catholic Education for their Children

JENNA PRESSACCO’S two daughters attend St. William Catholic Elementary School in Belle River.

“I couldn’t be happier that my husband and I chose Catholic education for our children”, she says.

“We were both raised Catholic, and we wanted to continue that tradition with our daughters. What makes it so meaningful and rewarding is that everyone at St. William—from the admin staff to the educators—feels like our extended family. Walking into St. William feels just like walking into home, for my girls and for me too! One day I was bringing them to school late; they greeted me by name in the office; nobody needed to ask our girls’ names for the late slips.”

“Another time I called the school during that frantic time just before classes started. I was not only greeted cheerfully, but not made to feel the least bit rushed off the phone. These are just two examples of how welcome and comfortable I feel as a parent. St. William makes us feel like family, like we belong. And our girls come home happy every day!”

Michelle Boufford’s daughter attends Holy Name Catholic Elementary in Essex.

“It was a seamless decision for us when choosing a Catholic school education for our daughter. Whether it’s the first day of school or the last, every lesson and activity is infused with faith.

Our daughter is learning all about God’s love and plan for each of us, about community. The values we strive to instill at home are reinforced every day at school. She is thriving and flourishing in

an atmosphere that nurtures and encourages her. And the school finds creative ways to strengthen the connections between faith and academics. Our daughter’s Catholic education is a blessing. We too, could not be happier with our decision.”

Stephen Fields, communications coordinator at the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board says, “A key component of our mission as a Catholic school board is to know every student, to inspire them to follow the example of Jesus, and empower them with the knowledge and skills they need to live purposeful, meaningful lives. We guide and direct our young students towards the pathways that work best for them. We strive to promote their intellectual, spiritual, emotional and physical well-being. And we focus on the success of our most vulnerable by creating welcoming, safe, innovative learning environments where every child can achieve success.”

Both Jenna and Michelle have nothing but praise for their children’s schools.

“The kids are surrounded by expert educators, who truly love what they do. It shows,” says Jenna. Michelle adds, “They are genuinely interested in providing every opportunity for children to grow, and my daughter loves growing here. Choosing a Catholic school education for our daughter is one of the best decisions our family has made.

Jenna concludes, “They know your kids, they know you. It fosters a wonderful feeling of family. Our girls spend more hours a day at school than they do with us, so knowing they’re in such good, caring, capable hands gives us great peace of mind”.

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

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UNPREDICTABLE NOIR FICTION Meet Windsor Born and Raised Author Vern Smith

STORY BY KAREN TINSLEY/ PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBBIE JAMES

NOIR FICTION comprises a marked darkness in theme and subject matter, unfolding against a backdrop of systemic and institutional corruption. Windsor born-and-raised author Vern Smith discusses his newest work, “Scratching the Flint”, which has been shortlisted for the “Best Indie Crime Novel of 2023” Award from Canadian Crime Fiction Lover.

Filled with seriously flawed, morally questionable characters, the tone of noir fiction is generally bleak, with protagonists rejecting all moral principles because they believe that life is meaningless; their greed, lust, jealousy, and alienation plunge them into downward spirals as plans and schemes inevitably go awry. People lie, steal, cheat and kill, while becoming increasingly entangled in situations they can’t possibly escape.

On the heels of where “The Gimmick” (Vern Smith’s previous novel) left off, “Scratching the Flint” features detectives Alex Johnson and Cecil Bolan straining against a broken legal system. With no-nonsense prose and wry humour, Smith takes readers on an exciting ride in this caper that’s fun, suspenseful and serious all at once.

Witnesses are mocked and murdered; evidence becomes a relative term to Detective Bolan. Racked with guilt while the system sputters, Bolan covertly assumes the roles of investigating officer, attorney, judge and executioner.

“Scratching the Flint” follows two of Toronto’s most battle-worn cops as they navigate racism, city hall high jinks, cunning criminals and compromised journalists. Through surprising plot twists and peeling back layers of institutional failure and decay, Smith tells one shockingly candid tale.

Growing up in Windsor, attending Central Public School and Centennial High (now known as Holy Names), Smith studied Journalism at the University of Windsor before transferring to what was then known as Ryerson University in Toronto. After graduating in 1989, he worked for a handful of newspapers, magazines and radio stations.

In 2010, Windsor’s CJAM radio beckoned Smith back, where he played a pivotal role until 2016.

Vern explains, “My wife was working in Illinois as a tenure-track professor. One of us had to move; we decided it was me.”

That’s when Vern seriously embraced fiction writing; in the past five years, he’s published five books.

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When asked who or what inspired him, Smith shares, “’Dope Fiend’” by Donald Goines is a heavy story that was close to home geographically; I found it fascinating. Goines was writing about Detroit; his unsanitized style was worlds away from my reality. I mean, Windsor has always been a tough-assed town, but Detroit’s in a whole other league.”

Smith was also deeply inspired by Canadian author Evelyn Lau’s critically and commercially successful “Runaway: Diary of a Street Kid”, a brutally frank memoir chronicling teenaged Lau’s life on the streets of Vancouver’s notorious Downtown East Side.

He also recalls devouring “Go-Boy! Memories of a Life Behind Bars”, Roger Caron’s influential prison memoir.

“When it was published, Caron was 39 years old and had spent 23 years of his life in prison. I guess you could say I established a different foundation because these works were non-fiction, not Mickey Spillane novels. ‘Freaky Deaky’ was the first Ellmore Leonard novel I read; that book introduced me to noir fiction. These writers and a few others set the table for me.”

Smith’s 2003 “The Gimmick” was shortlisted for the Crime Writers of Canada Awards of Excellence, which recognize the best in Canadian crime writing.

With respect to the writing process, is Vern a plotter or a by-the-seat-of-his-pantser?

“I think I was initially a pantser but then became a plotter; my first novel The Green Ghetto is about the war on drugs, terror, and words. I spent the next six months whittling it down, which was a painful process.”

Remembering when he interviewed Mickey Spillane many years ago, Smith says, “One of the things he said was, ‘know how it ends before you begin’. Originally, ‘Scratching the Flint’ was a short story.

After setting it aside for 10 years, I could see what needed changing. So, I reworked it methodically, setting up all my chapters (even if they only contained one or two sentences). And it just kept growing. I thought to myself, I have the perfect novel here, I’m not going to squander it into a short story.”

Confiding that “Scratching the Flint” was his pandemic project, Vern laughs, “it was incredibly liberating, because it seemed there was no need to censor myself when I could die of COVID.” For this author, what makes a great story?

“Speaking as a former journalist, the greatest story is the one they don’t want you to write! But generally, I think the greatest stories are simple stories, told well.”

In “Scratching the Flint”, did Smith have a favourite character?

He shares, “I had a lot of fun with Alex and Cecil. Both are deeply flawed; it was so interesting getting into their heads. While neither of them could be called a hero or role model, they were a lot of fun to be around.”

What about a favourite female character?

“Sometimes my characters are based on real people; in ‘Scratching the Flint’, The Greek was a real bar in Toronto’s Kensington Market that I visited myself. A woman sitting beside me introduced herself as Venus de Milo. With that moniker, it was no surprise she was a prostitute. We spent a lovely, innocent, fun couple of hours watching the ball game on the bar TV. I was delighted to portray Venus fictionally.”

What kind of readers will enjoy “Scratching the Flint”?

“Readers who want unsanitized stories.

Readers who want to read about how the world really is, not how it should be. Readers who identify with Windsor and Toronto. Readers who understand and appreciate that the story may not end the way they want.”

Vern’s next project is a “departure” from his previous work, but that’s all he’s prepared to share right now.

To conclude, we asked Vern which authors (living or dead) he would invite for cocktails: “Evelyn Lau, John Rechy, Brent Easton Ellis, Donald Goines, Iceberg Slim and Dorothy Parker. I almost included Charles Bukowski but thought better of it.” WLM Back to Contents

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IT IS ONE OF THE MOST important milestones in a child’s life and in a family’s life: the first day of kindergarten.

The Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) wants all students to start with their best foot forward. It does this by connecting with children and their families. The first opportunity of 2024 to connect is February 21, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., when schools throughout the GECDSB open their doors and welcome families for Kindergarten Open House.

“Our Kindergarten Open House is a great opportunity for parents to come into the school with their children, see the classrooms, meet the staff and get acquainted with where their learning will take place,” says GECDSB Director of Education Vicki Houston. “The little ones and their parents can ask questions and walk around the school. We know that it’s a big day bringing their child to school for the first time. This open house is a wonderful opportunity for parents to see where their children will be and to meet some of the people they’ll interact with.”

No appointment is necessary to attend Kindergarten Open House. Parents can just show up at the school with their kids and visit on the evening of February 21st. The GECDSB has offered this open house event since 2007.

“GECDSB schools are a great place to be!” says Lisa Lefaive, kindergarten teacher at Ford City Public School. “We keep the children at the heart of our program. Ours is an inquiry-based, play-based approach that encourages students to ask questions. We encourage learning by reflecting their interests in the lessons.

Our board is very cutting edge in this way. Programs are based on research. We bring in proven programs that offer students the best experience in the classroom.”

The GECDSB provides explicit instruction in response to student learning needs while focusing on creating a life-long love of learning.

“I have been in education over twenty-five years and the first day of school is always an exciting day,” Vicki continues. “There is nothing like kindergarten; the curiosity, the amazement that our new learners experience. Teachers and Early Childhood Educators play a critical role in this experience. This is where our little ones learn what school is going to be like. There is nothing more rewarding!”

What makes the GECDSB education experience so special?

“We make our programs engaging,” Lisa says. “We provide many opportunities for students to get involved. The kids like that we listen to them and incorporate their ideas and interests into the lessons.”

“It is public education, which means we’re inclusive of all,” Vicki explains. “All learners are accepted here. Achieving understanding through diversity is definitely an asset that we provide. And our schools are mirrors of our communities. That’s the beauty of them. If you look in the county, look in the city, you see the community reflected in the schools.”

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Every child’s learning journey begins in the same way. The GECDSB believes these first steps are monumental in the life of a child. That’s why it offers opportunities to engage with school staff leading up to the first day of school. Following Kindergarten Open House, families can look forward to “Welcome to Kindergarten” which is scheduled at the school-community level. Stay up to date on these important events by visiting www.publicboard.ca

Visit publicboard.ca

NATURAL BEAUTY

Photographer Steve Biro Brings a Sense of Wonder to Norway STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE BIRO

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Clockwise from above: Calm Norwegian nights; the North Sea Aurora, taken from the deck of a cruise ship; Photographer Steve Biro; an isolated lighthouse; a snowy mountain village; scenic mountain reflections.

AFTER ALL THESE YEARS, Steve Biro is still searching for the perfect shot.

“I got into photography 15 years ago,” Steve explains. “I started out in landscape shots. I moved over to wildlife photography, which is mainly what I do. But every now and then I enjoy traveling to new places where I can get some shots of beautiful landscapes and beautiful skies.”

And Steve’s eye for beauty cannot be denied.

Browsing his portfolio is an arresting experience.

Over the past decade, he’s captured some breathtaking shots. Foxes facing each other nose-tonose. An eagle gliding over mirror-bright waters.

A pride of lionesses lazing around a dead tree.

A shimmering blue waterfall trickling down a ravine of greens and crimsons. The Ambassador Bridge framed against a glittering skyline of reds and oranges.

Whatever Steve photographs becomes sublime—at once familiar and strikingly unique.

“In photography, everything comes back to a sense of wonder,” Steve states. “It’s hard to describe! I try to shoot things in a new or a fresh way. It gets me excited! I try to see the world like a child.”

But Steve is being slightly deceptive here,

Above: Northern Lights Cathedral in Alta, Norway.

and more than a little humble. When Steve takes his photos, he is searching for more than just beautiful moments. He has a preoccupation that bleeds through most of his work. It isn’t obvious at first, but these broader themes begin to reveal themselves over time.

And they’re especially notable during his most recent expedition. In November of last year, Steve decided to take his camera across the Pond to Norway.

“Norway has been on my list for a while now,” Steve explains. “I’ve done several northern trips—I’ve been to Iceland five times, Alaska twice. I love these polar communities. I find them fascinating. They’re filled with such raw, natural beauty.”

Steve took a cruise along the coast during the first two weeks of November.

During that time, he was able to capture the beauty of Norway with his characteristic sense of wonder.

Most significantly, he took a shot of the Northern Lights.

“I took that photo from the cruise ship,” Steve states. “I would normally set up a tripod to shoot the Northern Lights. But the tripod created problems on the ship.

It gave me more shake than if I was holding it by hand. The shot in question in several seconds long, with a long exposure.”

And what a shot it turned out to be! Almost spectral green lights swirl about the clouds, towering over hunchbacked mountain ranges. Only the faintest suggestion of civilization tickles the horizon—their lights pitiful in comparison.

“I thought it turned out quite nice!” Steve laughs. “I was able to get several shots of lights that aren’t visible to the human eye. But the camera picks them up beautifully! Seeing the Northern Lights is one of the main reasons I travel to the polar regions. It’s one of my favourite things to shoot.”

Steve has lost count of how many times he’s shot the Northern Lights. He first saw them years ago, during a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska.

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“They were really bright to the eye, almost dancing,” Steve recalls. “They were moving like something alive. For me, it’s about as close to a religious experience as it gets. It almost becomes difficult to focus on taking pictures because all you can do is stare. It’s really quite spectacular.”

But Steve didn’t just keep his camera trained on the skies. He also achieved several different beautiful landscape shots of the countryside around Norway.

“I also got a picture of an old cabin,” Steve states.

“That was also taken from the ship, in a fjord. It was around dusk. I really enjoy capturing architecture with nature in the background—especially when it’s colourful houses or lighthouses. I really appreciate capturing the smallness of man-made homes juxtaposed against the vastness of nature behind.”

And now Steve reveals the theme that pervades his work. The rustic cabin teeters on the edge of the shimmering lake, while skies and mountains crowd about the horizon. An aging lighthouse squats atop a frozen landscape. A pair of red boathouses cower beneath some frozen trees—becoming almost insignificant beneath the towering cliffs looming behind them.

“I love that diametric opposition,” Steve states.

More than anything, Steve’s work captures the humility we all feel before a world that is so much larger than ourselves.

But Steve doesn’t completely ignore habituated areas. In one of his most staggering shots from the trip, he manages a picture of a brightly lit village underneath more frosty peaks.

“It was a morning shot,” Steve states. “There wasn’t much light—some of the days are as short as two or three hours up there! But that means Golden Hour lasts for that whole time! I love to capture the ruggedness of the people that must survive in that environment. It’s very remote. They have to be quite self-sufficient. It’s amazing. I sometimes think, ‘I would love to live there!’ But there’s no way I could manage. I don’t think I’m made of stern enough stuff to live in a community at the bottom of the mountain. Everything needs to be delivered by boat or by plane.”

Despite the harshness of the surroundings, Steve has nothing but nice things to say about the locals.

“The Norwegians are wonderful people,” Steve states. “Everyone was so nice. Everyone was so helpful. Myself and the other passengers on the boat did a lot of hiking while we were there. The locals were so friendly along the way. They have beautiful dogs.

They’re almost more of a natural people. Sometimes we’d see a single father or mother dragging their baby carriage up high in these mountains!”

Steve is currently grounded back in Windsor. But fortunately for the rest of us, we can rest easy knowing his camera will never wander too far from his eye.

More of Steve’s sense of wonder can be appreciated at stevebirophotography.com.

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ARIDO Makes the Difference: Hire a Registered Interior Designer Toll-free 800.334.1180

The Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) is your connection to qualified, experienced, and innovative Registered Interior Designers.

ARIDO protects Ontarians to ensure every person using the title ‘Interior Designer’ is qualified. In accordance with the Ontario Titles Act, an individual cannot use the title ‘Interior Designer’ unless they are a Registered member with ARIDO.

Why should I hire a Registered Interior Designer?

Code, accessibility, sustainability, building and mechanical systems, inclusivity, etc.

Registered Interior Designers have completed the necessary technical education and passed the required exams to meet ARIDO’s rigorous standards for membership.

How do Registered Interior Designers become qualified?

Once qualified, Registered Interior Designers must keep their knowledge updated through professional development on topics including the Ontario Building

They must graduate from an accredited 4-year Bachelor of Interior Design program and complete an extensive supervised work experience program under a qualified practitioner. Finally, they pass a rigorous 3-part practical exam which includes building code knowledge.

Not sure if your designer is a Registered member of ARIDO? Check our Find an Interior Designer link on arido.ca

Meet a local Registered Interior Designer, Andalieb Abu-Zahra, ARIDO

I volunteer my time, contributing to the ongoing improvement and maintenance of Willistead Manor, one of Windsor’s finest examples of Architecture, as well as review curriculum updates to the Interior Design program at St. Clair College.

Q: Why is your ARIDO credential important to your business?

I have also had high school co-op students come and learn what the day to day work of an Interior Designer entails, and have given real world experience to intern designers and architects.

A: Meeting the criteria to be ARIDO certified and becoming a Registered Interior Designer demonstrates my education and ability to serve my clients well. Aha! Interiors Inc. clients can feel confident that their project will be handled properly, and professionally.

As Registered Interior Designers, we have not only proven our capability but we also have to abide by a code of ethics and always consider what is in the best interest of our clients.

Q: What is the local impact you’ve made as a Registered Interior Designer?

aha nteriors Andalieb Abu-Zahra, Aha! Interiors Inc. Studio: 519-981-9959 andalieb@ahainteriors.ca

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A: I have been working in residential design in Windsor-Essex for over 10 years.

I bring my 20 years of prior experience from around the world to Windsor-Essex offering my clients a wide range of options and design solutions.

As a professional Interior Designer, it is my duty to give back to the community.

I have been the Windsor representative for the region on the ARIDO board for many years, and I am also the past president of the local chapter.

Q: How has your extensive training and the rigor of the process to become Registered helped you better serve clients?

A: Attaining my B.Sc. Interior Architecture, and B.Sc. Architecture as well as passing the NCIDQ examinations was a long and difficult road. A person needs to be passionate and dedicated to design and the design process to achieve this.

This mindset and approach is required for every project we take on and finish and that is a benefit to our clients.

Everyone benefits from good design . . .

Hire a Registered Interior Designer.

Photo credit: Interiors - Leo Cardelli; Headshot - Clarissa Marie Photography

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