Windsor Life Magazine Your Place or Mine? 2020

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Your Place

Or Mine?

HOW TO MAKE WHERE AND HOW WE LIVE EVEN BETTER

YOUR PLACE OR MINE? 2020 VOLUME 27, ISSUE 3

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Robert E. Robinson CONTRIBUTING Karen Paton-Evans

BEFORE

WRITERS Leslie Nadon

Michael Seguin

*Untreated hearing loss

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carol Garant ART DIRECTOR Michael Pietrangelo PRODUCTION George Sharpe PHOTOGRAPHERS Sooters Photography

Michael Pietrangelo Michael Seguin Heike Delmore Erin Paonessa Danielle Earl Caesars Windsor Photography Pam and Bill Seney

ADVERTISING SALES 519-979-5433 VICE PRESIDENT ADVERTISING SALES

Charles Thompson 519-979-9716 ADVERTISING SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

AFTER

Mel Monczak 519-551-0072

*Treated hearing loss

ADVERTISING SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Denise Parent 519-980-3833 WINDSOR LIFE MAGAZINE

318-5060 Tecumseh Road East Windsor, Ontario N8T 1C1 Tel: (519) 979-5433 Fax: (519) 979-9237

www.windsorlife.com

Contact Sound Hearing Care today to schedule your hearing test!

SOUND HEARING CARE TECUMSEH 13310 Lanoue St. BELLE RIVER 962 Old Tecumseh Rd.

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Windsor Life Magazine is published 8 times per year. Mailed delivery in Canada is available for $40.00 per year including H.S.T. A $150.00 charge is required for mail delivery anywhere outside of Canada. Send cheque along with address information to Windsor Life Magazine, 318-5060 Tecumseh Road E., Windsor Ontario, N8T 1C1.

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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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Tina Stafferton DOCTOR OF AUDIOLOGY

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Achieving a beautiful home is about more than selecting attractive flooring and finishes. It requires careful consideration to balance many factors: An intelligently designed layout that promotes flow in shared areas and privacy in the bedrooms and home office. Storage spaces designed to keep everything organized in the kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms and family room. Age in place strategies, including wider halls and doorways and an accessible shower. Large windows and garden doors to let sunshine naturally brighten your rooms and your mood.

Family Home Improvements is ready to help you build these elements and more into your remodeling plan. Serving Windsor and Essex County for over 40 years, the award-winning renovation experts know which trends and products withstand the test of time. The design and construction team can show you what is possible in your home.

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Hello, sunshine! Now that Spring has officially sprung, I’m seeing signs everywhere.

Robins breakfasting on the lawn. Snow tires being stowed away in garages. Neighbours uncovering their patio furniture. Snowdrops pushing through the thawing soil.

While looking down, I spot weeds that didn’t get pulled late last summer still poking up in my driveway. Mentally delegating that task, I avert my eyes and notice caulking that needs replaced around the windows. When was the last time the condition of our roof was checked?

Fortunately for my limited handyperson skills, there are qualified, dependable home improvement professionals ready to help property owners throughout Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent. Profiles and contact information for a number of them can be found on the pages of this issue of Windsor Life.

We always call this annual issue, Your Place Or Mine? That’s because it has special focus on home design and construction. If you are planning to remodel a room, renovate from top to bottom, put on an addition or build a new house entirely, follow the wisdom of many of our past readers and hold onto this magazine.

It will prove to be a helpful, convenient resource whenever you are ready to talk with local professionals able and willing to handle your project.

Or you can always check our back issues archived at windsorlife.com to learn more about the talented people who are building and beautifying local homes.

Some of those completed projects are featured in Windsor Life. Please turn to page 18 and meet a lovely couple, Heidi and Joe. They both overcame personal loss to build a new life together. Their way forward included the construction of a new house in Lakeshore, with ample space for their blended family.

That was in 2004. When their eldest daughter announced her engagement last year, Heidi seized the opportunity to hire interior design consultants and redecorate the main rooms.

Check out the stylish results for yourself.

It’s always fun to take our readers behind the doors of homes in our community. The great taste, creativity and master craftsmanship that go into these properties deserve to be showcased.

Whether you live in a condo, townhome or house, it’s now time to put your own home maintenance and enhancement plans into action. The warm weather, at last, is just around the corner.

Sincerely,

Bob Robinson

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Hot Furniture Trends RENEE’S PICK: OPEN CONCEPT DREAM Magnussen has created a new collection of case goods that are designed with open concept homes in mind. With 4 finishes including white, toasted nutmeg, dovetail and peppercorn there is something to blend with most wood tones. Choose form 70”, 80” or 90” media stands, round and chairside end tables, home office desk and storage and 3 dining Tables, chairs, benches, stools and more. This series aims to please with classic, on trend styling and smart space sizing. Definitely, one to check out.

CHERYL’S PICK: SKIRT OR NOT TO SKIRT Shabby chic is not for everyone but for those that appreciate this casual yet refined look, you will recognize the attention to detail Décor Rest has taken in launching a selection of pieces available both skirted and non-skirted to suit your personal taste. With custom fabric options and a vast selection of both colored and neutral plains and patterns, it is easy to give it your own flavor.

Make shopping for furniture less stressful and a lot more fun.

CHALENE’S PICK: A SUPERB SLEEP A good night’s sleep is always in style. It allows our body to rejuvenate and restores it to a relaxed and restful state that is essential for good health. Lift beds are growing ever more popular as they introduce a variety of price points and features that make good sense to everyday happier living. They no longer carry a medically required stigma and people are embracing the idea of the comfort and relief they offer to our constant aging body. As we continue to change throughout our life cycle, that is what makes adjustable frames so game changing. Fit your bed to what you need today and every day that follows. Encase the “mechs” in stylish upholstered beds or if solid wood is what you crave, we have that available from Handstone and other custom manufacturers.

SHERRI’S PICK: DESIGNER EDGE

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Stylus Made to order Sofas continues to impress with edgy new looks that are sleek and stylish and do not disappoint in the comfort department.

This frame boasts a 95” oversized sofa and an Apartment version measuring only 72”. If sectionals are more your taste, pick your pieces to fit to your space. Metal legs give a smart sophisticated edge but don’t worry if you prefer a wood leg…that is also an option. You have to love a company that makes it so simple to say “yes we can”.

ROSIE’S PICK: THE PERFECT FIT Canadian Reclining Company Elran has developed recliners and suites for over 50 years. Beginning with manual features, adding power years later and now they have introduced adjustable head rest and lumbar support options. It has never been easier to create a chair that is truly a perfect fit. Their new Art of Options series puts you, the consumer, in the driver’s seat. First pick the arm, the back, the seat that fits your style, then sit back and allow the chair to adjust to your body, all at the touch of a button. These advancements make it easier to have a chair that is comfortable when sitting stationary or reclined. Come in and take a test drive. It is definitely worth the trip.

BECKY’S PICK: GLASS AND BEYOND Bermex has taken custom glass dining to new heights.

They continue to add new bases, sizes and shapes, wood stains and levels of distressing. Not a fan of clear glass? Need to step it up? We welcome the introduction of white and grey/ taupe glass to the mix. Photos do no justice in showing the depth this coloured glass can add to your dining space. Bermex builds hundreds of styles of chairs ranging from low profile contemporary to traditional high back wood and upholstered styles that are available with choice of seat and cover. They are built to last and come with a 10 year warranty. Use their online builder to see a 3-D image of your creation.

DAWN’S PICK: SIMPLIFYING SECTIONALS It is important that it flows and functions so it is very important to pick the right scale of furniture for your space. Sectionals are a great way to make use of an area but be careful that it does not overwhelm your room. Take account of walkways, doorways, and windows when measuring to keep the room feeling open and well adjusted. It is also important to ensure your selection fits your lifestyle. The cuddler shown here is perfect if you like to curl up in the corner with your legs up but far less comfortable if you are choosing to sit as you would on traditional sofa pieces. The variety of pieces in customer sectionals provide endless options. Let us help you get the best fit for your family and your home.

JESSICA’S PICK: LEATHER TO LOUNGE IN This seating is something special if you like an oversized, deep, squishy sofa. Now built with leather options, you have to try it out in our showroom to understand. This casual series is not suited for hosting afternoon tea but is perfect for lounging, watching television, having a nap or reading a good book. So sit back, relax and enjoy lounging in Franklin’s sofa and sectional suites.

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In This Issue The sight of grass greening our community is wonderful. For Tecumseh’s Alison Schumacher, the ice season is happily year-round.

The many hours the teenaged ladies’ singles figure skater spends at the rink continue to pay off. Canada’s 2020 national silver medalist shares how she spends each day in this issue of Windsor Life.

Local firefighter Joe Paonessa is used to handling the heat. He is back from testing his strength in the Arnold Schwarzenegger World’s Strongest Firefighter competition in Santa Monica.

Globetrotters Pam and Bill Seney headed to the American Southwest and were awed by the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon Hoodoos, Valley of Fire Nevada State Park and other dramatic natural sites.

Building on its outstanding stats for tips received, cases solved and rewards distributed, Crime Stoppers of Windsor and Essex County is celebrating its 35th Anniversary.

Surviving the Nazi invasion of Poland as a child, Reva (Rozwaski) Monczak eventually moved to Windsor in 1960, where she raised her own family. She reveals what she learned from hiding in the forest for two years and ultimately embracing the good in life.

Singer-songwriter Crissi Cochrane has launched her latest album, Heirloom, produced in the recording studio in her Windsor home.

Combatting harsh social media with positive messages for children has become a mission for Alma and John Hogan. They co-authored Be the Best Bee You Can Be, invited their grandkids to illustrate it and have now self-published the book.

Realizing that blending their two families would require accommodation all round, Heidi and Joe designed and built a stylish custom home in Lakeshore with space for seven in 2004. A daughter’s engagement last year prompted on trend upgrades.

Janice Kaffer, Chief Executive Officer and President of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, has little time or inclination to prepare food – unless her grandkids request her signature breakfast, featured in Look Who’s Cooking at Home.

Superstar recording artist, dancer and actor Jason Derulo tells Windsor Life that eating is his favourite thing to do. Getting ready for his April 10 concert at the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, he also talks about writing and performing his songs and his foray into the film industry.

Happy reading!

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NOMINATIONS END APRIL 1, 2020 “TITAN in our COMMUNITY” Award TCI TITAN GROUP is pleased to seek nominations for a special award to be presented in recognition of an individual in our Windsor Essex County community that has demonstrated the qualities of selflessness, strength and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.

The chosen individual should also possess the quality of determination while displaying an inspiring attitude of positivity. Through volunteerism or through their normal daily course of work, TCI TITAN GROUP would be proud to award an individual that has left a profound impact on their community.

TE A IN !

M NO NOW

This award is in honour of our loving family member, Registered Nurse Priscilla E. Chaykoski who passed away in 2017 from ALS. Priscilla was an example of a true TITAN within our community. She was a respected leader that stood up for not only what she believed in but advocated for those who could not stand for themselves.

On June 23rd, TCI TITAN GROUP will present the successful nominee with a “TITAN in our COMMUNITY” Award, present them with a cheque in the amount of $2,000 for their contributions and feature them in Windsor Life Magazine in 2020.

Priscilla E. Chaykoski, RN To reward an everyday person that is doing extraordinary things in our community, please follow the selection criteria and email your nominee application no later than April 1st, 2020 to titanaward2020@gmail.com.

The nominee will be selected based on the following criteria: 1. In 650 words or less answering the questions below, please state clearly why you feel your nominee should be chosen to receive the “TITAN in our COMMUNITY” Award. a. Tell us about this individual and what they have done to inspire you to nominate them. b. Describe the initiative and leadership demonstrated by this individual that goes above and beyond to merit awarding them this honour. c. What impact have their contributions had within our community for those they are assisting. d. Outline areas that are indicative for pursuit of continuous knowledge on their behalf.

2. Include the following: a. Full name and contact information of the individual nominated. b. Full name and contact information of the person that is completing this application. c. The applicant’s relationship with the nominee.

The winner and their application sponsor will be notified on June 7th, 2020.

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

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ON THE COVER Fireplace, windows and the 22 foot tall ceiling soar in the great room of a custom-built family home in Lakeshore.

DEPARTMENTS

Photography by Michael Pietrangelo See page 18

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F E AT U R E S 18

UPDATING A LAKESHORE HOME

46

Infusing Traditional With A Modern Twist 32

A New Album by Crissi Cochrane 42

FLOWING WITH ENERGY

Canadian Silver Medalist Alison Schumacher

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NEW & NOTICED

68

BON APPETIT!

74

HOROSCOPE

71

JASON DERULO

76

JUST BE

New Children’s Book Addresses Mental Health

RED, RUGGED DESERT BEAUTY

The Seney Family Explore America’s Southwestern Parks 80

LOOK WHO’S COOKING AT HOME

Janice Kaffer Whips Up Breakfast For Her Shorties

The Headliner Sets Out For The Colosseum Stage 66

EMPOWERING THE COMMUNITY

Crime Stoppers Celebrate 35th Anniversary

Voices From The Past 56

HEIRLOOM

REVA MONCZAK

40

82

FEEL THE BURN

Arnold Schwarzenegger World’s Strongest Firefighter Competition

Mental Health IS Good Business • A half million Canadians miss work due to a mental health issue every week.

• 30 per cent of short- and long-term disability claims in Canada are attributed to mental health problems and illnesses.

• The cost to the Canadian economy from mental health problems is $50 billion every year.

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Windsor-Essex County Branch (CMHA-WECB) knows that stigma around mental illness needs to be tackled directly: On the Front Lines.

In March 2020 the CMHA-WECB launched phase two of its successful Sole Focus Project: On the Front Lines. The goal is simple but not easy. Workshops are available to provide proactive outreach through education, training and awareness to businesses and workplaces.

Workplace owners, managers and Human Resources leadership – as well as other organizations and unions can tap into these resources.

It is not only the right thing to do –it also makes good business sense.

Early intervention is key to helping reduce anxiety, depression, addictions and certainly reducing suicide.

It’s also important to “meet people where they are at,” says Claudia den Boer, CEO, CMHA-WECB.

“When you work with managers to look for signs and clues to possible issues with staff it can equate to less sick time and absenteeism, lower benefit costs and improve staff morale.”

“We know stigma is still a real factor when it comes to seeking help for mental illness,” says den Boer. “Our mental health educators have found great success in delivering trainings and workshops at businesses, unions and we hope also with networking groups for entrepreneurs.”

Investing in your employees’ mental health is also good for the bottom-line, says Kim Willis, Director, Communications and Mental Health Promotion, CMHA-WECB. “There are many stats and programs, particularly in the United Kingdom, with the World Health Organization and even with the Mental Health Commission of Canada that support early intervention through education,” says Willis.

Above: Paul Dufour, President & Financial Advisor, Breadth Consulting Inc., On the Front Lines Ambassador.

Right: Elizabeth Moses, Machinist Apprentice, Windsor Mold Inc., On the Front Lines Ambassador.

The CMHA-WECB offers evidence-based education on a variety of topics including: Understanding Depression/Anxiety, Compassion Fatigue, Suicide Prevention, Traumatic Stress and Resiliency.

As part of the On the Front Lines campaign several new Ambassadors have been introduced. They recognize there is no health without mental health!

New generations of employees are calling for mental health to be part of a psychologically safe work environment with confidentiality and benefits on par with physical health care.

With the growing number of public figures such as professional athletes, artists and actors coming forward with their own stories of mental health struggles, individuals are feeling empowered to seek help for their own challenges.

The On the Front Lines campaign offers up resources, knowledge and expertise. Mental Health is the Sole Focus at CMHA-WECB. Mental Health Educators provide tools and information to support employees’ mental health.

To get more information on how your business, organization or union can benefit, contact Kim Willis at (519) 255-9940 x161, or kwillis@cmha-wecb.on.ca

“Today in our society we focus a lot on good physical health but have to realize we need strong mental health also to have a positive balance. There should be no shame or embarrassment if you are suffering from mental illness. The Sole Focus Project strives to educate our society so we can tackle mental illness together and help those who need support.”

Cris Kambouris

The Cris Kambouris Real Estate Team Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty

Accentuating the

Positive

A LAKESHORE HOME FOR SEVEN RECEIVES MODERN UPGRADES STORY BY KAREN PATON-EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL PIETRANGELO

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WHEN HEIDI AND JOE FELL IN LOVE, one plus one equalled seven. Between them, they had two sons and three daughters, ages six through 12. In order to build a life together, they needed to build a house large enough for them all.

The local man and woman had met at a grief counselling group, each mourning the loss of their beloved spouses. Once they felt ready to begin envisioning a new future, they started attending regular meetings again, this time with an architect.

“It took over a year of getting together weekly with our architect to design the house,” Heidi recalls.

“With blending two families, we believed building a new home would be the wisest option for us. We wanted to design something that would give everyone their own space without feeling on top of each other. We quickly found ourselves adding more square footage than we originally thought necessary.”

On the day they signed off on the plans, the couple committed to a 4,800 square foot house, containing five bedrooms, five bathrooms and a finished basement with a much-needed second laundry room.

Everyone was excited to see the house rise on a half-acre lot in “a nice new subdivision” in Lakeshore.

The homebuilder, Dave Reaume of Reaume Homes, “didn’t cut any corners. He put the finest details into our home to achieve timeless appeal coupled with classic, modern flare,” Heidi says.

Left: The great room of a Lakeshore home is a soft spot for curling up over conversation on the new oversized leather sofas. The rustic coffee table is fashioned of century-old railway ties from India. Coco the photo-bombing cat approves of the shag rug. Above: A contemporary take on the classic wingchair and metallic accent pieces dress a nook in the foyer.

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Top: The home’s original kitchen designed and built by Wayne’s Custom Woodcraft mingles earth tones in the contemporary wood cabinetry, granite countertops and travertine backsplash and floor tiles. Above: Seeking “traditional with a touch of safari,” homeowners Heidi and Joe furnished their master bedroom with a sleigh bed painted cream, a pair of chairs and matching bench upholstered in cheetah-patterned fabric, rattan window blinds and a ceiling fan with leaf-shaped bamboo blades. Right: Marble flooring and steps lead to the whirlpool tub in the master bathroom.

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The family took up residence in 2004.

Suggestions made by the architect proved smart. “He paid attention to the placement of lighting fixtures, electrical outlets, audiovisual systems, furniture layouts – everything was well thought out,” says Heidi.

The open concept floor plan feels even more spacious with high ceilings. “We requested taller and wider doorways than normal to fit my husband, who is 6’-5”. I wanted tall windows to let in a lot of natural light.”

“The architect recommended double staircases that lead to the quieter section and noisier section of our home,” the mom says. “Our place has always been the hub for our kids and their friends to hang out. There is a bonus area above the garage that allows the kids to have their own fun space where they can jump around and be noisy and we don’t hear a thing.”

The years have flown for the busy family.

When the eldest daughter announced her engagement, the parents began planning the party to be held at home in 2019. Looking around, they determined their home was due for an update.

Urbanhome Interior Design owner Jody Mason and her interior design consultant Philip Chouinard were called in to decorate several key areas.

Playing on the existing palette of taupe, cream and light grey, “Philip did a wonderful job mixing contemporary with classic. The outcome looks elegant yet casual. He worked with what we already had and updated with new Canadian-made pieces,” Heidi says.

This page, top to bottom: Charcuterie platters are a frequent snack request from the kids, whose palates gained sophistication as they grew older; the dining room evokes thoughts of Tuscany, with its warm neutral palette, ornate dining furniture and rustic slate floors. An Italian artist hand-blew the glass tulip-shaped shades for the spiralled gold metallic chandelier. A large window looks onto the front yard and affords a view of the entrance gardens and water fountain; a built-in media centre in the family room displays modern art while organizing DVDs, games and blankets. Enlivening the space is a burnt orange suede curved sofa, round glass-topped coffee table with a metal base and a rawhide rug.

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Beginning in the foyer, the design team was inspired by the existing curved dark oak staircase with squiggly custom railing by Art Metal. Philip injected lighthearted notes with a new stylized grey button-tufted wingchair and a chrome pedestal table.

Sunlight bounces off the oval wall mirror and a brushed antique gold table lamp with a whimsical branchlike base.

Anything that could be changed in the great room was replaced, excepting the original Hunter Douglas Silhouette privacy blinds and Details’ earth-toned jacquard fabric draperies dressing the 18’ tall Palladian windows.

“This room is nestled between the family room on the right and the kitchen on the left. It’s our gathering place after meals and our conversation area with guests,” Heidi notes. “Warm and inviting” was the ambiance she sought.

Fusing together transitional pieces, “Philip helped me create a cohesive flow, combining hard and soft surfaces. A pair of new down-filled, extra deep supple brown leather sofas with furry throws and velvet and faux fur accent pillows provide comfortable seating for our family,” Heidi says.

Two new Brittany chairs are by the fireplace. On a deep pile shag rug is the coffee table bought at Art Expressions, made of reclaimed 100-year-old railway ties from India, resting on a sleek chrome base.

Casablanca ceiling fans suspended from the 22’ tall ceiling keeps air circulating, pushing warm air down in wintertime.

Zone heating is generated by the lofty fireplace, crafted of natural travertine stone.

Black walnut hardwood flooring has withstood frequent use. Heidi says, “We just have the hardwood redone every few years and the floors look new.”

Next to the great room is the family room, with cozier 11’ ceilings and the original built-in dark wood entertainment centre designed and built by Wayne’s Custom Woodcraft. “With a big family, we wanted something to neatly house and conceal all the entertainment devices. This smart storage organizes CDs, DVDs, photos and blankets,” says Heidi.

“To add brightness, I chose a burnt orange curved suede sofa and threw on plenty of down-filled pillows in varying textures.

Philip suggested a rawhide rug and a glasstopped coffee table with a crisscrossed metal base.” The bold accents instantly modernize the room.

Withstanding the test of time is the kitchen created by Wayne’s Custom Woodcraft 16 years ago. “We wanted clean lines

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and a style that wouldn’t fade. The warm tones reflect the warm spirits of our kids,” says Heidi. “I like the way Wayne incorporated stainless steel doors, frosted glass and pecan-stained maple cabinetry. The monochromatic palette is very calming.”

Making certain “everything is very durable,” Heidi selected travertine tile for the backsplash and floor.

Brownish-black granite with gold flecks comprises the countertops. At the end of the island, a raised pub table is topped in black granite with silver sparkles. “The kids have places to sit and keep me company while I prepare meals,” Heidi says.

The huge kitchen also contains a big granite table illuminated by a stainless steel chandelier. A bar area features a built-in desk, sink, wine fridge and coffee machine.

A walk-in pantry extends behind a full kitchen wall. “I need a lot of storage: I’m one of those crazy people who have dinnerware for every season.”

“Our kitchen is the heart of our home.

My family loves to eat. I spend much of my day cooking and baking for Joe and our three kids still living at home,” says the mom.

Formal dinners are served in the dining room. “We’ve kept the original warm neutral palette. When I sit at the dining table, I feel like I’m in Tuscany,” Heidi muses. The ash and mahogany table glints with metallic accents. Its shape is framed by a contrasting black slate inlay border set into the brown and rust slate flooring.

Casting soft light around the dining room is a chandelier Heidi bought with her first husband for their house. Spiraled gold metal and curved branches bloom with glass tulipshaped shades handblown by an Italian artist. Seeing the chandelier reminds the woman how blessed in love she and her family are.

Heidi says happily, “Our older daughter was married last year and a son just got engaged. So we’ll be planning more parties here!”

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Windsor Life Magazine is always searching for interesting homes, landscaping, gardens, patios and water features to show our readers what others in the community are doing with their living spaces. If you have a home that you feel would be interesting please email photos to publisher@windsorlife.com. Photos need to be for reference only. If your home is chosen we will arrange for a complete photo shoot. If you wish, you may remain anonymous and the location of your home will not be disclosed.

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ESSEX APPLIANCE CENTRE LTD.

Sales. Service. Delivery.

FOR OVER 30 YEARS, Essex Appliance Centre has served as the premier location for Windsor and Essex County’s appliance needs.

Opened in 1986 by owners Gord and Cathy Stevens, Essex Appliance Centre offers a vast selection of both low-priced and high-volume appliances alongside competitively priced premium brands.

“Gord and Cathy are great people to work for,” Frank Resendes, the Store Manager, states. “It’s a family-run business. They know how to treat their employees and their customers.”

Located square in the epicenter of Windsor and Essex County at 76 Talbot Street South, Essex Appliance Centre reaches beyond the county’s borders.

“We’re well-established here in the centre of Essex County,” Frank explains. “We deliver from Boblo Island to Wallaceburg and as far as Ridgetown. So, we go pretty far!”

Going one step ahead is part of Essex Appliance Centre’s mandate.

“We always like to take care of our customers,” Frank states. “That’s the advantage we have over the big box stores. We make sure that we take the time to educate the customer. We take care of our customers from the sales level and beyond, making sure they’re looked after from beginning to end, especially when service is required.”

One of the unique services Essex Appliance Centre offers is their free home delivery and installation.

“Being a small-town company, we don’t outsource our delivery service,” Frank explains. “This is a big deal for most of our customers. And, while the box stores always charge you for delivery, ours is free. And, we go a step further. We connect and install almost all of the appliances, so that customers can begin using them as soon as we leave.”

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What’s more, Essex Appliance Centre boasts of one of the largest appliance showrooms in Southwestern Ontario, providing their customers with unparalleled selection and volume.

“Our store has a warehouse atmosphere,” Frank explains. “We have about 20,000 square feet of showroom.

We have a pretty large variety, with a vast selection on display. That way, our customers are able to feel and touch the appliances they’re shopping for, as opposed to just staring at them on a monitor.”

Essex Appliance Centre’s large space allows them to carry a wide assortment of brands and prices.

“You can get anything from a $399 dryer to a $30,000 stove,” Frank states. “We have everything from economy brands to your super premium luxury brands. That’s the beauty of our store. We have so many brands behind us so that we can service all clientele. As well, our inventory is constantly changing and remains up to date with the newest and best features available on the market.”

Essex Appliance Centre’s dedication to providing their customers with the best possible products and services means that they remain perched on the cutting edge, keeping up to date with the latest and greatest trends in appliance technology.

“We’re finding that a lot more of the manufacturers today are leaning towards new developments in smart appliances,” Frank states. “Everyone has a smartphone nowadays. And life gets so busy. You can preheat your stove from an app on your phone. We’ve got fridges with camera in them, so that if you’re at the grocery store and you can’t remember what you need, you can check on your phone.

You can check how much time you’ve got left on your laundry machine from a different floor. They’re getting pretty neat!”

Essex Appliance Centre also contains a fully-equipped service department, which offers both replacement parts and a repair services.

“Most box stores give their customers a 1-800 number to call, which can be inconvenient,” Frank states. “But we have customer service as an in-house service. We have two techs on staff to help with any breakdowns.”

As well, aside from the breadth and depth of the services Essex Appliance Centre provides, their prices remain neckand-neck with the larger franchises they compete with.

“We work a little harder for our money,” Frank admits.

“But, we also work with low margins. So we’re able to sell our products for cheaper than the box stores.”

At Essex Appliance Centre, it all comes back to service.

“My favourite part of working at Essex Appliance Centre is meeting new people,” Frank explains. “Showing them what’s out, what’s new. We’re just a small town business, plugging away with the big guys. But, we do our best to service all of our customers—loyal and new.”

76 Talbot St. S., Essex PH: 776-6316 • 776-8611 • 776-9788

Free Shop At Home Service AT MADE TO SHADE WINDOW COVERINGS, the store is brought right to your door.

Michael Campoli started the business in May 2005.

“We’re approaching our 15th anniversary,” Michael states. “As of today, we still manufacture our own shades. Our products are all 100% Canadian made.”

Made to Shade is unique among other window covering companies in that it operates using a fleet of mobile showrooms rather than a retail storefront.

“I’ve always strived to offer the best product at the most reasonable price,” Michael states. “We keep our prices down by not having that overhead.

Besides, I need to go out to your house to see your colours, what you need and what your requirements are. It’s difficult to visualize a piece of fabric at a retail store. You’d want to actually see it in your home.”

Once called, Michael or one of his associates will drive out to your home to determine your window treatment needs.

“We bring the showroom to your home!”

Michael states. “I’d rather have that interaction with whoever is purchasing the blinds. This way, we can make sure everything works. I treat every project as a blank slate.”

The effect is a much more intimate, personalized approach to your shopping needs.

“Your house becomes my canvas,” Michael states. “I have to make sure everything sparkles.”

As well, Made to Shade is cognizant of every customer’s budgeting needs.

“Most times I go into these beautiful homes after they’ve been built,” Michael explains. “So, the budget is all tapped out. But, I can work within pretty much every price range, whether that’s something higher end or lower end.”

Made to Shade hosts an expansive range of modern and innovative window treatments to suit any need and lifestyle, including Eclisse Vision Shades, Roller Shades, Sunscreens, Venetian Blinds and more!

“We’ll look at the room and measure up the shade,” Michael states. “We’ll look at the way the sun rises, the way the sun sets. We’ll look at whether or not you have east or west exposure. Those are all factors that affect the blinds. Based on your requirements and what you’re looking for, then we start taking things out of the van. We can quote it on the spot.”

Made to Shade has a zero-commitment shop at home service, seven days a week.

“If you happen to be home Sunday morning, I can be there at 9 a.m.,” Michael laughs. “We’ll have a coffee together and talk about blinds!”

Once the order is placed, Made to Shade has a twoto-three week turnaround time.

“At the time of sale, we confirm the install date,” Michael states. “We can set up a whole house in

two-to-three hours, at most. My crew is very efficient. No mess. We clean up after ourselves.”

What’s more, Made to Shade offers a lifetime warranty on all products.

“We have a dedicated individual that only does repair,” Michael states. “All damaged blinds are taken care of within 24 hours. At the end of the day, it’s all about customer service.”

In addition, Made to Shade services both residential and commercial buildings.

“We do everything from office buildings to restaurants,” Michael explains.

Made to Shade Window Coverings can be reached toll free at 866-77-SHADE (74233). Request a quote today!

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Call 519-739-9797 • madetoshade.ca

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QUINN ROOFING SOLUTIONS Commercial, Industrial and Residential Roofs Built With Top Brands WHEN YOU NEED A ROOF over your head, you need Quinn Roofing Solutions.

Quinn Roofing Solutions is a family owned and operated business that guarantees your satisfaction for all commercial and residential roofing services, from first consultation to follow-up maintenance.

Working with Quinn Roofing Solutions offers a vast range of professional benefits, including a greater understanding and knowledge of all types of roofing, a dedicated team of in-house support staff, a wealth of manufacturer training programs and certifications and superior knowledge of all cutting edge roofing products and techniques.

“A person’s home is typically their largest financial investment, and it should be treated as such,” Co-Owner Sue Quinn states. “We pride ourselves on the scope of the services we provide and make continuous efforts to implement new products and services.”

Quinn Roofing Solutions maintains an exceptional Health and Safety Management Program. The company’s core initiatives are education, inclusion and ultimately prevention. In addition to complete compliance with workplace safety regulations and education, Quinn Roofing Solutions has adopted a proactive approach, allowing employees the opportunity to learn, participate and evaluate practices and procedures. This results in a safe working environment.

These strategies ensure that safety is part of the service Quinn Roofing Solutions delivers to its customers.

Collectively, these elements and their importance to Quinn Roofing Solutions allow them to provide unparalleled safe, productive and professional services.

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As well, Quinn Roofing Solutions has spent years making major investments in hiring an experienced and dedicated staff. The large company infrastructure allows them to provide the best professional services available, in a timely fashion. This benefits the company’s residential and commercial customers.

“Because of our staff, we are able to focus on all jobs and provide the best possible service,” Sue explains. “We have attained exclusive memberships and certifications with the top roofing manufacturers, which, in turn, allow us to provide the best services for our clients.”

In addition to their longstanding professional memberships with the country’s top roofing manufacturers, Quinn Roofing Solutions maintains a certified sales staff to guide each client in making smart choices. A project manager heads up the process, seeing it through to completion. On the jobsite, Quinn’s health and safety coordinator and quality control manager ensures that the work is completed perfectly and safely.

Quinn Roofing Solutions guarantees the highest standards to every aspect of their work. They constantly exceed the expectations of their customers by providing outstanding expertise on each project. In addition, their vast experience with commercial building has allowed them to streamline their approach to residential properties. “Challenges and obstacles can present themselves during any project, but the dedicated team at Quinn Roofing Solutions is there to overcome these issues,” Sue states.

Call Quinn Roofing Solutions today for your free consultation!

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STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN

Heirloom

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIKE DELMORE

Crissi Cochrane Releases a New Album IN MANY WAYS, Crissi Cochrane’s musical journey has been a circular one. It began in the Annapolis Valley, in a small town an hour outside of Halifax called New Minas.

“My relationship with music goes back as far as I can remember,” Crissi states. “I always wanted to be a musician. Growing up in a small town, maybe I just thought there wasn’t much to do. Or, it could be that the relative isolation made me a bit delusional about how much work would be involved. Because I didn’t see anyone doing it. I never knew it couldn’t be done. Back then, I was just young and naïve and I loved music.”

Crissi first started playing guitar at age nine. In high school, she started performing her first gigs.

“There was a good music scene there, although it was much more hardcore and punk,” Crissi recalls. “So, I was kind of making more emo music back then, but I was still just a girl on stage with a guitar.

The only shows I could play were with punk bands, because they were the only ones performing. So, I’d be the opener before things kicked off. Or, I’d go up at the end of the night before the kids went home to calm everyone down.”

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However, despite the area’s musical climate, Crissi found herself drawn to the underground folk-pop community.

“There’s a really great folk community out there,” Crissi explains.

“Everyone’s a singer-songwriter. All the open mic nights are crammed. I don’t know if that’s just what was in demand or if that was just what my heart was drawn to. But during the time I was there I was doing my folk-pop kind of style. It wasn’t until I came to Windsor that I started getting into jazz and soul.”

Crissi’s journey eventually drew her southwest, to Windsor. Crissi first acquainted herself with the City of Roses over 10 years ago, after a local pub achieved some renown.

“I came here for the first time in 2010, kind of on a whim,” Crissi explains. “The Phog Lounge had just been named the best live music venue in Canada by CBC Radio. So I came to Windsor to play at Phog and do some co-writing with my husband, who, at the time, was just an acquaintance. I didn’t know anything about Windsor. I didn’t even know it bordered Detroit, really. I kind of had my mind blown.”

After a brief stint in Windsor, Crissi decided to relocate. While

▼

gathering the resources necessary for the move, Crissi traveled to Chicago to produce her first studio album, Darling, Darling, which had been recorded in Chicago the previous December.

“The main reason why we went to Chicago was to work with a musician, Mike Kinsella,” Crissi explains. “He agreed to play drums for us. It was a fully-produced album.

We had bass, drums, we had strings that were recorded in Toronto. It was eight songs.

It was very much a folk-pop release.”

The album was released in August of 2010. A week later, Crissi hopped on a train to Windsor.

The last 10 years in Windsor have been particularly fertile ones. In the last decade, Crissi has released two CDs, Pretty Alright in 2011 and Little Sway in 2014, performed more than 350 shows, started a family, and bought her first house in Windsor.

Little Sway provided Crissi with her first breakout success in the music industry.

“A song from Little Sway called ‘Pretty Words’ ended up going viral,” Crissi explains. “It happened in 2016, so the album was already two years old by that point.

Someone who curates the ‘Your Favorite Coffee House’ Spotify playlist decided to add my song. And because that playlist already has a couple million subscribers, when your song gets added to a playlist like that, you start getting all these plays. I didn’t even realize what was happening until this had been going on for a couple of months.

Everything just snowballed from there.”

Using the income generated from her sudden fame, Crissi was able to fund a much more dynamic home recording studio, which she has since used to produce her long-awaited upcoming album, Heirloom.

After several years in development, the album is Crissi’s most ambitious project to date. “The personnel includes 13 musicians,” Crissi states, “many of whom played multiple parts. There’s a small orchestra on this album. We have violins, horns, woodwinds, backup singers, a rhythm section. It’s just a very lush album.”

The title is a reference to Crissi’s guitar, which has become a multigenerational instrument.

“The name of the album is a tribute to my guitar,” Crissi explains. “It’s a 1964 Jaguar. It was my Dad’s. He gave it to me— with the stipulation that it stays in the family. My last album was recorded entirely with my acoustic guitar. This album was entirely played on my electric guitar. As well, there’s been a change in my voice, which I think

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In our 27th year Windsor Life Magazine is delivered to business and select residential addresses in Windsor/Essex, Chatham/Kent exclusively through Canada Post.

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has been changing throughout all of my releases. But I think my voice has finally arrived.”

After releasing two studio albums, Crissi has wholeheartedly returned to self-produced music.

“Previously, you couldn’t get your work on recordings unless you were really worldclass,” Crissi states. “Now, we’re living in an age where everyone can make music.

Everything is more affordable. You can have our own photography rig at home.

You can have your own recording studio in your basement. You can make some pretty decent stuff on your own. That’s why I think I’ve come full circle. With this album, we did it all in-house.”

The album contains 11 songs, each sizzling with interpersonal drama.

“There are some old flames revisited, in gory detail,” Crissi explains. “It’s more mature than some of my previous releases.

There are two feminist songs, there are two custom love songs that I wrote for local couples and towards the end of the album, there are some more unusual songs. More artistic and creative and risky songs that I’m really proud of.”

Crissi teased Heirloom on January 7th, with the release of a single track entitled “Hungry Love.”

The song is an examination of the performance anxiety Crissi began to experience when making her transition into more professional, soulful music. So, one night, she sat down and thought about why she made music. “When I was younger, I was just doing it for love, because I was trying to attract relationships,” Crissi divulges.

“But those were always unfulfilling. So, ‘Hungry Love’ was about those relationships I was attracting. It ends with a proper, stable relationship and the realization that I'll always be making music, even if I'm only making it for myself. Because that’s what motivates me now. I'm really pleased with how the recording turned out - the song is just so catchy!”

Heirloom was released on February 29th, 2020 and is available on all major streaming platforms.

And Windsor couldn’t be prouder to share its musical ecosystem with Crissi.

“There’s a lot of opportunity for music in Windsor,” Crissi states. “Especially with Detroit. But even without the border, we’ve got the casino, there’s a lot of weddings that happen out in the county; I’m never running out of work here. There’s a lot of gigs to do.”

WLM

Estate Plans Can Help You Answer Questions About the Future Here are a few of these questions: What will happen to my children? With luck, you (and your co-parent, if you have one) will be alive and well at least until your children reach the age of majority (either 18 or 19, depending on where you live). Nonetheless, you don’t want to take any chances, so, as part of your estate strategy, you may want to name a guardian to take care of your children if you are not around. You also might want to name a Trustee – sometimes called a “guardian of the estate” – to manage any assets your minor children might inherit.

Will there be a fight over my assets? Without a solid estate strategy in place, your assets could be subject to the time-consuming, expensive – and very public – probate process. During probate, your relatives and creditors can gain access to your records, and possibly even challenge your will. But with proper planning, you can maintain your privacy. As one possible element of an estate plan, a living trust generally allows your property to avoid probate and pass quickly to the beneficiaries you’ve named.

Who will oversee my finances and my living situation if I become incapacitated? You can build various forms of protection into your estate planning, such as an enduring power of attorney, which allows you to designate someone to manage your financial affairs if you become physically or mentally incapacitated. You could also create a power of attorney for personal care, which allows someone to handle health care decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

Will I shortchange my family if I leave significant assets to charities? Unless you have unlimited resources, you’ll have to make some choices about charitable gifts and money for your family. But as part of your estate strategy, you do have some appealing options. For example, you could establish a trust, which provides financial support to your chosen charities for a period of time, with the remaining assets eventually going to your family members. A charitable remainder trust, by contrast, can provide a stream of income for your family members for the term of the trust, before the remaining assets are transferred to one or more charitable organizations.

As you can see, careful estate planning can help you answer many of the questions that may be worrying you. Be aware, though, that certain aspects of estate planning, especially those related to living trusts and charitable trusts, can be complex, so you should consult your estate-planning lawyer or qualified tax professional about your situation. Once you’ve got your strategy in place, you should be able to face the future with greater clarity and confidence.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your estate-planning attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

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Nothing You Wear Is More Important Than Your Smile SO LONG, HOLLYWOOD. Genuine hometown smiles are now the way to go.

When Barry Parisien DD first started practicing in Windsor nearly 20 years ago, “people asked for dentures with perfectly straight, white teeth – the total Hollywood treatment,” he recalls.

Over the past several years, he has noticed that people now want a natural looking smile. Embracing his patients’ uniqueness, the denturist uses his artistry to create dentures that are indistinguishable from natural teeth. “People come to see me because they want their dentures to look as natural as possible,” says Barry. “It’s wonderful they want to look like themselves!”

Getting new dentures offer opportunity for a person to finally customize their smile. Barry says, “You won’t have to spend the rest of your life with a wide gap that has been inconvenient. Or, if it’s part of your signature grin, I can duplicate it. Your choice.”

“Slight changes from the appearance and configuration of your original teeth can enhance your entire smile. Most people won’t realize what has been altered, they will only appreciate that you are even more attractive now than before,” Barry says.

Customizing high quality teeth to get the most esthetic result achievable, the denturist puts equal focus on function.

“To talk, eat and laugh with confidence, you need dependable dentures,” he says. Barry sits down with each patient, listens to their challenges and hopes and then offers informed solutions. “We have various options to work within people’s budgets,” says Barry, who provides value-priced dentures to master class smiles using teeth from the top tooth manufacturers in the industry.

The kindly, straight-talking denturist lets new patients know: “Anyone wearing a full lower denture that is not secured to

implants in their jaw will likely find the denture moves somewhat.”

For this reason, the minimum standard of care for a lower denture is to have two implants placed in the lower jaw to hold the denture in place. “Once the lower denture snaps onto the implants, it’s a night and day difference. The fit is drastically improved,” he says.

Taking dentures to the next level is permanent teeth installed on implants. Barry fabricates the teeth, which can be secured in place in just one day. “These truly are permanent teeth that stay in your mouth 24/7. Brush your pearly whites and take a bite out of life – just as you used to do with your natural teeth. Then go to sleep with a smile on your face, feeling comfortable and confident.”

“Many people in our community are losing their natural teeth or struggling with ill-performing dentures and don’t know what to do next, or if anything can be done at all,” Barry observes. “I’m here to help inform them on their options.”

A sound sleep is also possible for patients - and their bedmates – with effective, custom-made anti-snoring devices available at Parisien Denture Clinic.

The denturist has uploaded instructional videos on his YouTube Channel, Barry Parisien DD, and is producing new ones. “Learn at your convenience about common issues, how to care for dentures and mouthguards and more.” One interesting video is Barry’s How Dentures Are Made, demonstrating what goes on with your dentures once you leave his office.

Giving patients even more to smile about, Parisien Denture Clinic offers financing options up to 12 months and a free initial consultation. To arrange an appointment, call 519-997-7799 or visit parisiendentures.com.

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Dentures created by Parisien Denture Clinic

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Your smile is our passion.

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EYEWARES OF WINDSOR Helping You Express Your Personality with Eyeglasses After setting a tiny pair of blue frames on the button nose of a toddler, Eyewares of Windsor optician John Walker holds up a mirror. “Do you like this pair?” he asks.

The tot’s face lights up when he sees how cute he looks. His mom affirms, “Yes, we want these for my son’s new eyeglasses.”

Finding flattering, fashionable eyewear that fits comfortably on the child’s delicate ears is just the first step. “Whether our client is two, 15 or 95 years old, our opticians ask the right questions to determine how the person uses their eyes throughout the day,” says John.

Caring for the patients of local eye doctors, including Dr. Betty Ann Tarr and Dr. Michael Hawkeswood practicing next door, “Eyewares of Windsor doesn’t just fill the prescription, we interpret it to ensure our client achieves the best vision possible,” John explains.

He and his wife, Sue, are co-owners of Eyewares of Windsor, a large eyeglass boutique in South Windsor. People come from all over Essex County to select designer and value-priced frames, high performance single and multifocal lenses, prescription and non-prescription sunglasses and contact lenses. “We make it worth the trip,” John assures.

“As a small family business, we’re sensitive and flexible to clients’ vision needs.”

“Each person living with eyesight challenges has their own requirements, issues and frustrations. At Eyewares of Windsor, we hone lenses and assemble glasses in our own onsite lab. Controlling the entire process lets us be meticulous in everything we do.”

“Our team has been working together since we opened Eyewares of Windsor over 20 years ago. The sales staff, lab technicians and opticians get to know our clients. By combining our expertise, we can

make informed recommendations that benefit the people who entrust their vision to us,” John says.

Understanding that eyewear is both a necessary tool and a style statement, the team encourages clients to take their time and browse the huge selection. When choosing frames for their boutique, Sue and John pay attention to clients’ preferences and find the styles they want.

“Selecting frames for yourself is like buying an outfit you will wear often. Fashionable eyewear is a high priority, particularly for girls and women,” John says. “Men also want to look their best. The right design adds definition to their facial features.”

Clients who embrace their vision challenges as opportunity to underscore their personalities often have several pairs: Fun and colourful for everyday; classic for work; and more glamourous looks appropriate for dressy date nights and formal events.

On a practical level, many people have a secondary pair for emergency backup, driving, golfing, knitting, screen time or other activity.

This season, frames in blues and greys are in demand. Classic black and tortoiseshell frames popular in the past few years continue to be strong favourites.

“Ray-Ban is one of the most requested brands for eyewear and sunglasses. Both men and women are sporting Ray-Ban Aviator, Wayfarer and wire metal frames in round, octagon and square shapes,” says John.

Women also love designs by Michael Kors, Coach, Tiffany, Versace and other luxury brands, as well as value-priced frames loaded with style.

“If your current frames are perfect but your prescription has altered, we’ll change out the lenses, saving you money,” John says. “What matters to us is that you see well and look terrific.”

Ph. 519.254.2020 3893 Dougall Ave. eyewaresofwindsor.com

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BAY-VIEW GLASS AND MIRROR Unique Glass and Mirror Products for Over 30 Years Nothing gives a space a fresh, modern aesthetic like glass. Bay-View In addition, Bay-View Glass and Mirror is known for giving back Glass and Mirror provides complete commercial, residential and to the community. The company routinely donates to the Riverside industrial glass and mirror services. Bay-View Glass work can be Minor Baseball Association, Transition to Betterness, St. Clair seen across the county, gleaming against some of the region’s finest College, Rose City Gymnastics and many more. “We’re in the homes and businesses. As well, Bay-View Glass has done work for community,” Eric explains. “We believe in giving back.” both Caesars Windsor and Casino Rama.

To find out how glass can transform your living space contact What makes Bay-View Glass and Mirror so captivating is owner Eric and his team at Bay-View Glass and Mirror at (519) 94GLASS Eric LaMarre’s unique, innovative approach to every job.

(944-5277), or visit the website at BayviewGlass.com.

“Anything you can think of, we like to get involved and do,” Eric “We’re always trying new things,” Eric explains. “If you have a states. “There’s lots of options. We’re completely custom. If you have problem, leave it with me and I’ll come up with a solution. If you’re a cool idea that’s out of the box, come see us and we’ll figure it out. flexible and want to push the envelope, we can do something really, We’re always looking for new ways to service our customers.” really cool.”

Bay-View Glass can transform your living space into a bona fide work of art. Bay-View offers a wide range of trailblazing services, including frameless shower enclosures, Euro Actual Project style barrier-free accessible showers, back painted glass, custom railings and much more!

Bay-View Glass has breathed new life into a number of homes, renovating bathrooms, bedrooms and wine rooms.

“We’re never satisfied until you’re happy with our services,” Eric states.

In addition, Bay-View Glass has just launched a new line of exclusive Showerguard glass coating.

“We just launched a new product line called Diamond-Fushion,” Eric explains.

“When you buy glass for your showers, you now have two options: regular glass or glass with an applied coating. The coating helps to protect against hard water stains and things like that. It’s a high-value product.”

The Showerguard removes the need for daily maintenance with a monthly cleaning being enough to remove 100% of stains.

“Our customers love it,” Eric states. “As well, the manufacturer guarantees a limited lifetime warranty as long as basic care instructions are followed. There’s also a touchup kit if you ever need it.”

Bay-View Glass boasts a staggering 33 years of experience in the industry.

“My father, when he first started the company, was the first person to install an all-glass shower in Windsor,” Eric states.

“Back when we first started, I was doing one shower a day. But we’ve refined the process so much that we now do up to five a day.

And we’ve got two amazing crews. So we can do 10 to 15 showers a day. We don’t miss deadlines. We do what we’re supposed to do.”

Estimates are provided free of charge. All production is completed on-site, typically 1455 Matthew Brady, Windsor • 519-94GLASS (944-5277) with a 2-4 week turnaround. “We keep our www.bayviewglass.com prices competitive,” Eric states.

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NEWANDNOTICED

LOIS FAIRLEY AWARD NOMINATIONS

ANTONINO’S AND SEEN VISION CARE On Monday January 13th, Antonino’s Original Pizza donated 62 large pizzas to South Windsor’s École Élémentaire Catholique Monseigneur Jean Noël to celebrate the school collecting 9,000 non-perishable food items and a huge bag of mittens. Event co-sponsor, SEEN Vision Care, was also in attendance, offering $100 gift certificates for all teachers, staff, administrators and parents. Pictured is Vince Lombardo, Manager of Antonio’s and Jody Hurtubise, Manager of SEEN Vision Care.

Nominations are now open for the 2020 Lois A. Fairley Nurse of the Year Community Service Award. Named after Lois Fairley, a nurse at Grace Hospital from 1955 to 1993, mentor to nursing students and president of the Ontario Nurses Association, the award will be given to an outstanding nurse in Windsor-Essex County who deserves recognition for the care, compassion and contributions she or he has made. Nomination form is at windsoressexrnao.org.

KAREN’S 4OR KIDS

ROGERS HOMETOWN HOCKEY Rogers Hometown Hockey made its way to LaSalle on February 22nd and 23rd for a great weekend of free hockey-related activities. NHL Alumni like Kirk Maltby (left) and Kris Draper made an appearance. In addition, Ron MacLean and Tara Slone (right) broadcasted live at the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex to celebrate LaSalle’s hockey history and culture. hometownhockey.com.

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This month, Karen’s 4or Kids, Southwestern Ontario’s premier specialty shoe store for children and teens, held a Grand ReOpening under new Owners John and Debbie Filippakis at 1647 Ottawa St. John and Debbie are longtime Windsor business owners and are incredibly excited to begin the next chapter of Karen’s 4or Kids. First opened in 1947, Karen’s 4or Kids has been a family favourite staple in Windsor. The original owners, the Blaine brothers, have been taking an active role in the reopening, passing along their knowledge to John and Debbie. karens4kids.com. 519-252-9521.

W.E. CARE FOR KIDS FOUNDATION The W.E. Care for Kids Foundation collected $515,000 in 2019 as part of its annual fundraising. The foundation wrapped its 22nd annual fundraising campaign last month with a luncheon at the Fogolar Furlan Club. Since 1997, W.E. Care for Kids is dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of children in Windsor and Essex County. It has raised more than $8.2 million. wecareforkids.org. 519-985-2608.

MERCATO FRESH Mercato Fresh, a new grocery store, opened up in Chatham last month. Mercato Fresh’s goal is to create a unique, fresh and enjoyable shopping experience for their customers. The Mercato Fresh continuously strives to offer the highest quality freshest products at the best possible price.

Pictured is Mayor of ChathamKent Darrin Canniff and Owners Marc Romualdi and Jonathan Reaume. mercatofresh.com.

226-799-9093.

MARY BROWNS CHICKEN & TATERS Mary Browns Chicken & Taters opened a new location inside the South Windsor Walmart at 3120 Dougall Ave on February 28th. A truly Canadian company, Mary Browns started in Newfoundland and Labrador in 1969, and now has over 160 stores across Canada. The new Windsor location will also offer fantastic breakfast options. Pictured are owners Shezeeka and Kam Khurshed. marybrowns.com.

519-967-0101.

WINDSOR WEBSITE SOLUTIONS GOVERNOR GENERAL HISTORY AWARD THE SPITFIRE PUB Last month, the Spitfire Pub celebrated ten years in business. Located at 11828 Tecumseh Rd E, the Spitfire Pub boasts of an authentic pub-style menu, 15 refreshing drinks on tap, friendly service, brunch on the weekends and a warm, intimate atmosphere. Pictured is Bartender Alicia Bruner and Owner Bob Shaw. 519-979-6000.

Last month, two teachers at Academie Ste.Cecile International School, Stephen Punga and David Brian, won the Governor General History Award for their Lost Cemeteries Project. The project had students collect data on black cemeteries and create an interactive map. The two were honoured at Rideau Hall in Ottawa by Governor General Julie Payette.

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Windsor Website Solutions offers website design, hosting, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), social media management, reputation management and digital marketing services. Owner Tarek Fakhuri and his team can optimize your domain to improve rankings, incorporating the latest guidelines from Google, Bing, Yahoo and all other major search engines. Pictured is Owner Tarek Fakhuri. 519-919-6585. windsorwebsitesolutions.com.

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Alison Schumacher 2020 Canadian National Silver Medalist STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE EARL

WHEN ASKED TO DESCRIBE the sensation of figure skating, Alison Schumacher sparkles. “It’s indescribable,” Alison admits.

“Gliding on freshly Zamboni-ed ice. It’s freeing, never static. It’s moving! A form of expression. You’re just flowing with energy.”

Alison is Windsor’s own prodigious 17 year old Canadian ladies’ singles figure skater of national and international acclaim. And, as of this year, she is a 2020 Canadian national silver medalist.

Born in Zhuzhou, China, Alison Schumacher was adopted by Jen and Albert Schumacher. Alison grew up in Tecumseh and has a difficult time remembering life before taking to the ice.

“My Mom and Dad put me in skating lessons when I was four,” Alison recalls. “That’s basically how it started. I guess people thought I was good!”

Alison’s first coaches were Stacie Diemer and Jen Jackson at the Riverside Skating Club. From an early age, Alison excelled, periodically performing at ice shows. “The ice shows were hosted to raise money,” Alison states. “They were always fun. They brought a lot of energy to the arena. I always enjoyed that, the social aspect of skating.”

However, early on, Alison was had mixed feelings about the competitions. “I wasn’t a fan of training for the competitions,” Alison admits. “The multiple run-throughs. The expectations, the pressure. I wasn’t a big performer. That wasn’t my thing when I was younger.”

Ironically, despite being lukewarm about competing, Alison continuously did well. “I did pretty well, in my early days,” Alison states. “Pre-Juvenile is when I started doing a lot better in the competitions. And in Pre-Novice I really surprised myself. I came in third at Challenge, Skate Canada’s national competition. That was a big step for me, because when you advance a level it’s hard to know where you’re going to end up. So that was definitely one of my highlights. I saw a lot of improvement in those years.”

As Alison began ranking higher and higher, her long-dormant competitive side began to ferociously reveal itself.

“Expectations kept rising, but I kept meeting them,” Alison

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laughs. “I started to enjoy skating a lot more. With more success, I started developing more confidence. And when you become more successful, the social aspect becomes more important, too. You keep meeting new people at new competitions. I really liked that.”

During her time in the Novice league, Alison experienced some difficulty with ranking. However, during her first Junior year, she moved east to train at the Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club.

She later went on to place third at the Junior Canadians. “That was a big confidence-booster for me,” Alison states. “A breakthrough.”

The following year, Alison received two international Junior Grand Prix assignments. “That was my first time competing internationally against people from different countries,” Alison states. “It was really cool. You’re with a Canadian team with people from different disciplines, from all over the country. You really get to know them when you’re abroad. We all travel together and face things as a team.”

Additionally, while skating solo at the international level, that season Alison shared the ice with her first and only partner at the national level. “I skated with Zachary Daleman,” Alison reports. “It’s very different. You always have to be aware of your partner. But at the same time, you need to focus on your job and what you need to do. It’s definitely a team effort. You need to work together in order to be successful.”

Alison has since performed at many different competitions, at higher and higher levels. Her most recent competition at the 2019 World Junior Championships remains her proudest moment. “I placed 10th at my most recent competition,” Alison states. “Which was unexpected.”

As a result, Alison was given two assignments for the Junior Grand Prix. She then went on to place 18th at the JGP France and 7th at JGP Croatia.

For a figure skater to crack the top 10 on their first international competition is a major breakthrough.

And, after years of meeting expectations, Alison continued to surpass them.

In January, Alison placed second at the 2020 Canadian Championships. “Winning silver was very satisfying after how hard I trained,” Alison states.

And Alison’s training regimen is not for the faint of heart. On a typical day, Alison skates for two to three hour long sessions.

Alison will arrive at the rink for seven in the morning, perfecting her jumps and technical work until eight. Then, Alison goes off to school, only to return to the club before noon for an hour and fifteen minutes of program training. After a short break, Alison will then train the second program. Every day involves off-ice work as well, such as Pilates, cardio or psychotherapy. And all this must be managed around Alison’s schoolwork.

“The most demanding part of figure skating is how mentally tough you have to be,” Alison states. “You have to put yourself on the line on competitions and for those long hours of training. It’s a big workload—every day. It’s very mentally challenging.”

Alison credits her psychologist for helping her work through the struggle. “I work with a psychologist,” Alison explains. “I have mental techniques to help manage stress.”

Fittingly, Alison plans on pursuing the Social Sciences after university. “I’ve applied to university,” Alison states. “I want to get a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology.”

Alison currently lives in Toronto, to train with her coach, 1988 Olympic bronze medalist Tracy Wilson.

There’s never a dull moment for Alison Schumacher.

Last month Alison travelled to Seoul, South Korea to compete at the 2020 Four Continents. The competition marked Alison’s first time representing Canada internationally, with a national team.

Alison placed 14th in the competition.

This month, Alison will be also be heading to Tallinn Estonia to compete in the World Junior Figure Skating Championships.

While the future is always uncertain, we’re confident that Alison Schumacher will remain in her element—weightless on freshly Zamboni-ed ice.

WLM

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89 year old Holocaust survivor Reva Monczak holds a picture of her parents, Basia and David Rozwaski.

MOVING FORWARD Holocaust Survivor Reva Monczak STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO

REVA ROZWASKI GREW UP in a small town in Poland called Diatlova, which is now located in Belarus.

“I grew up in an old, traditional family,” Reva states. “My father was the third eldest of eight. My grandfather was wounded by the Germans during the First World War with a bayonet, and became deaf. So, my father took the reins of the family business.”

The Rozwaski’s came from a long line of traders, who often served as the intermediaries between farmers and consumers. “Growing up, I had a normal life,” Reva states. “I’m the oldest of three. I have a younger brother, Chaim, and sister, Miriam.

I played with my friends. Saturday, we went to synagogue. We had half a hectare around the house. We had horses, chickens, a goat. Our house was on a big highway, near the village. We didn’t know anything else. Until the war came.”

On September 30st, 1939, the Russians attacked Germany, dividing Poland down the middle. “When the Red Army came in, they advanced down the highway,” Reva states. “We stood outside watching the soldiers on their horses with their black capes. The sun was already setting. It was a nice autumn day. And one

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soldier bent down and gave my little brother a ride on his shoulders. He spoke to my father. Then, he put my brother down and marched on.”

Life changed under the Russian government. Private grocery stores were outlawed. Business owners were shipped to Siberia for hard labour. A noxious cloud of paranoia fell over Diatlova.

However, life under Russian rule was just the first dark cloud in the raging storm that would eventually consume their lives.

“I can still see it now,” Reva states. “It was a gorgeous day. The whole family was in the backyard at my grandfather’s. Somebody came running. He told us that Germany had attacked Russia.”

Five days later, on June 27th, 1941, a German plane landed near the Rozwaski household. The Germans began their reign of terror with a purge.

“All Jews were told to come to the market with shovels, because they were going to go to work,” Reva states. “There was a table with the S.S. and barking German Shepherds around. One man started calling names from a list. They called out 120 names. The lawyers, the doctors, the businessmen, the rabbi.”

Reva’s father and his older brother were two of the names called.

That morning, one hundred and twenty Jews were shot and killed not far from town. “They told them to dig the grave, then they shot them,” Reva states. “We found out after the war.”

Life under the German heel continued for several months. No one was allowed on the sidewalks or the streets. The schools shut down. Before long, the Jews were commanded to wear the Star of David on their chests to identify themselves.

And, unbeknownst to the Rozwaski family, Reva’s mother was expecting. “Mother had good days and bad days,” Reva recalls. “She was getting heavier. She didn’t talk much. She just knitted. I still remember her with a brown ball of wool, just knitting.”

And then, in January 1942, Reva’s younger brother was born. “He was beautiful,” Reva states.

“Cherry-black eyes and a sweet smile. He understood that he had to be good. He never cried.”

That February, the German noose tightened. The Rozwaski’s were ordered to abandon their home and relocate to the newly-formed ghetto. And by April, tragedy struck again.

“We woke up one morning to commotion,” Reva recalls. “Dogs were barking. People were stamping their boots. We were summoned to the marketplace and lined up. A man stood at the front of the line.

He would look at you and say ‘right’ or ‘left.’”

Sent right, the Rozwaski family was marched out of town, to the highway. There, the community was again sorted—right and left.

Reva, her siblings, her aunt, her Uncle Shlomo and her cousin were sent right—back to town.

Her mother and infant brother were sent left. Into the forest.

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“By the time we got back to the highway, we heard the shots,” Reva states.

1,100 people were killed that morning.

After that day, the Germans shrunk the ghetto. The Rozwaski’s were forced into a house that was still under construction that they had to share with another family.

On August 6th, 1942, Reva’s family woke to more commotion. Fearing what was to come, they went into hiding. Two days later, they fled into the forest, only to learn that the Germans had undertaken the Final Liquidation—exterminating the entire ghetto.

Reva and her family spent over two years hiding in the forest, taking shelter with the Partisans—the Jewish resistance movement.

“There were hundreds of us in the forest,” Reva explains. “But, we couldn’t have other people with us. You had to look after yourself. You didn’t tell anyone else where you were going to hide. If they got caught, they might give you up. Trust was hard to come by.”

Reva credits her Uncle Shlomo, her father’s younger brother, for keeping her and her siblings alive. “My uncle kept us safe,” Reva states. “How he did it, why he did it, I’ll never know. It was a time when parents looked after themselves. Some abandoned their children. He got saddled with the three of us. But he never abandoned us.”

Then, in 1944, the storm finally subsided. The war ended.

“When we were liberated, the farmers came and yelled for us to leave the woods,” Reva recalls. “We were afraid to stay there, because at that point, the Germans were running into the woods to hide from the Red Army.”

Returning home brought the Rozwaski family little joy. “Going home, we didn’t feel anything,” Reva states. “We knew what we were coming home to. Nothing.”

Reva and her family did not stay in Diatlova long. They smuggled themselves into Berlin, hoping to secure passage to Israel. However, once there, Reva and her brother Chaim discovered that Canada was admitting thousands of orphaned Jews.

“My brother and I went together,” Reva states. “My sister stayed with our uncle. He adopted her as his daughter.”

Reva and Chaim came to Canada on October 4th, 1948. After arriving in Halifax, they eventually settled in Winnipeg, where Reva found work in a factory making jackets for $15.40 a week.

Even after coming to Canada, Reva

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was uneasy. “We were a generation accustomed to hiding things,” Reva admits.

“Even when I had a house, I couldn’t share with anyone how much I was paying. They might take it away from me. How do you trust another person after all that?”

However, Reva was eventually able to trust again when she met Kalman Monczak, another Holocaust survivor, at night school.

“My girlfriend introduced me to him,” Reva recalls. “He invited me out during the holidays. Later, we went to a New Years party, where he asked me to go steady.”

Uncertain, Reva turned to her brother for advice. “I asked my brother if he’d ever met Kalman,” Reva states. “He said, ‘Yeah, I met him at a party. He’s a good dancer.’”

Reva and Kalman were married on December 30th, 1950. They had two children: Beverly and Mel. Ten years later, at her cousin’s suggestion, the family moved to Windsor. Reva returned to the workforce after her children entered high school, serving as the Head Cashier at Cole’s Bookstore.

“When my granddaughter Jenna was at Riverside High School, she asked me to give a talk,” Reva states. “She made an appointment for me. I couldn’t say no!”

Reva’s talk had—and continues to have— a profound impact on everyone involved.

“A girl came up to me afterwards,” Reva recalls. “Her grandfather was in the Canadian Army. He liberated some of the camps.

She said, ‘Now, I know how I have to treat my grandfather.’”

Reva Monczak turned 89 this January.

Her husband passed away in 2015. She currently lives independently, with a personal support worker visiting her every day. Aside from her own children, she has five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her brother Chaim, with whom she was inseparable, is a rabbi in Berlin. Her sister Miriam passed away in 2017.

But some scars require more than a single lifetime to fade. “Even now, when I hear my neighbor stomping around upstairs, I jump,” Reva states. “The way he walks reminds me of German boots.”

However, Reva understands the importance of moving forward. “I feel very happy with my life,” Reva states. “For years, I thought any day could be my last. But, by refusing to drown in the pain of my past, I was able to build a beautiful future. What I’ve learned is this: life is unpredictable.

Never take anything for granted. Take care of those around you. Support those in need.

Be a good person.”

WLM

MCCCU Board of Directors, left to right: Stephane Boucher, Randy Dupuis, Jim Angus, Wendy Graat, Don Fraser, Amy Wolters, Bill Marra, Sandra Fischer, Marc Moore. Absent: Frank Moceri.

Motor City Community Credit Union Putting People in Charge of Their Financial Institution for 80 Years AVERAGING 55 CENTS PER HOUR earned in local shops and struggling with the cost of living in 1940, manufacturing labourers needed to make the most of their pay. Coworkers started banding together and forming their own credit unions, empowering themselves as member-owners. Making decisions democratically to direct the credit union and put people before profits, these forward-thinking colleagues helped one another, their families and community.

Credit unions were established in dozens of varied Windsor-Essex County workplaces over the years. Strategic mergers ultimately created Motor City Community Credit Union, honoring the city’s status as Canada’s automotive capital and harnessing collective strengths to achieve greater security and independence for its members.

“In celebrating 80 years as a credit union in 2020, we are reflecting on our past, staying present and building the future in our resourceful community,” says board chair Don Fraser. “Membership is available to everyone. Our ability to understand and meet the different needs of all of our members from all sectors is what defines us.”

Boom and bust cycles impacted members and the community over the decades.

“The 2008-09 economic meltdown proved what Windsor is made of. Our credit union journeyed with members, labour unions and not-for-profit organizations, finding solutions during those tough times. We applaud the continuing resurgence of civic pride won through our region’s resilience,” says Becky Langlois, Motor City’s marketing and community relations manager.

As a modern financial institution that was the first Windsor financial institution to offer cheque depositing anywhere by smartphone, Motor City is mindful of its longstanding commitment to helping people. Four years ago, it introduced its FreeFlex free chequing account, requiring no minimum bank balance and providing mostly free services, including no service charges when banking online, at ATMs and in the credit union’s three retail branches.

“Our technology and mobile apps enable members to bank where and when they want – on the fly or in our branches. This proves we are putting our resources and money into staying ahead of our members’ needs,” says Becky.

Fast and dependable digital connectivity is used by members of all ages. Young people especially appreciate the convenient advantages of online banking. When they want one-on-one meetings with their financial service representatives, they can take care of all their banking needs at one of Motor City’s branches in Windsor.

“We respect our members,” Becky says. “Whether we are helping a single mom deal with a financial emergency or advising an empty nester on retirement investments, each member receives the same level of service from our financial representatives.”

Businessowners seeking financial solutions can find them at Motor City’s Commercial Lending Centre. “We tailor our financing to the uniqueness of our members so there are no ‘boiler plate’ options,” says Steve Schincariol, vice president of commercial

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lending. “We make decisions locally which allows our businessowner members to enjoy a quick turnaround time for their requests. Our adaptability also allows us to assist our members in the tough times as well as the good times. Businesses that Motor City helped get off the ground over the past 80 years have helped our credit union stay strong and vital. We help people help themselves.”

“Target Building Materials is very proud and pleased to be a client and friend of Motor City,” says owner Greg Drouillard. He appreciates the credit union’s “impeccable, personal and professional manner in how everyone treats our organization. It truly sets you apart from the crowd of

financial organizations. Added to that is your sense of community, which warms our hearts.”

Motor City’s community-building includes investing in youth, offering scholarships and supporting young business leaders, sports and youth groups and environmentally friendly cooperatives.

“To give new Canadians a good start to their new lives in their new community, Motor City has a special training program that prepares them to work with us. Six people have already been hired and are serving in our branches. Our staff are helping them adapt to Windsor-Essex County. In return, we are learning firsthand about life in other countries,” says Rob Griffith, chief executive officer.

Wanting to buy local, eat local and bank local, members are looked after by people living in their neighbourhoods, who understand local challenges, opportunities, work ethic and community spirit.

The bottom line is relationships matter at Motor City.

“When Anita Imperioli came to us in 1997 to discuss her vision for In Honour of the Ones We Love, a charitable organization she wanted to create to help patients with cancer or other life-threatening illnesses, Motor City was eager to support her initiative,” Becky says. “We are proud to continue our partnership with In Honour, labour unions and other local organizations that have made such a difference in our community.”

Karl Lovett, business manager of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 773, praises Motor City as “a great business and community-minded sponsor.” He encourages people, “For all your financial needs, from something as simple as an account to a business loan, reach out to a representative of Windsor’s members first and only unionized financial institution.”

Community is at the heart of everything the credit union does. Becky says, “That is why we placed it in the centre of our name – Motor City Community Credit Union.”

TEAM BRAD BONDY

The Name Friends Recommend Brad Bondy’s path to real estate, he admits, was a bit of a circuitous one. “I’ve been in the business 15 years now,” Brad states. “Previously, I was a farmer. Then I worked at a couple factories before they closed down.”

At 41, Brad found himself facing a career transition. However, his previous employers encouraged him to get into sales.

“I always wanted to sell something,” Brad states. “The chemical plant I was at had everyone do a self-assessment project prior to us closing down. They told me that my sales scores were off the charts!”

Inspired, Brad considered taking the leap. Fortunately, his friend and fellow RE/MAX realtor John Bondy was there to give him the final push he needed.

“I met John Bondy at a Costco,” Brad recalls. “I told him that I was thinking of getting into real estate, but was feeling apprehensive.

John then drew a picture on the back of a box. He said, ‘Look, here’s a guy jumping off a cliff with no parachute, and here’s the same guy holding a rope, slowly making the same trip down the hill, afraid to let go.’ John advised me to make the jump.”

After mentoring with prominent members of the industry, including Lawrence Cote, Theresa Dugal and Bill Sutton, to name a few, Brad refined his skills to become one of the most accomplished real estate brokers in the area.

After a few years, Brad expanded his team. He is proud to have Amy Bailey, Diane Schultz and his brother and commercial specialist Brian Bondy as his sales representatives. Heather Harber serves as his office manager. Even his mother Betty comes in to work a few hours a week.

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“I wanted to maintain a family atmosphere,” Brad states. “We’re very selective about who works with us, as family is our number one priority.”

As a long-term resident of Amherstburg, Brad’s work is amplified by a strong dedication to his community.

“I volunteer with the Miracle League of Amherstburg,” Brad explains. “My team does a ton of volunteering, not because we have to, but because we love it. Clients, family and friends have put their trust in our team, so we do what we can to give back.”

In addition, Team Brad Bondy’s dedication to communication is exemplary.

“Good communication is huge,” Brad stresses. “We always answer our phones and follow up. We’re all full-time realtors on my team. If a client says they are working with another realtor, and they have questions regarding one of our properties, we will reach out to their realtor with the answers.”

Team Brad Bondy has sold over 2,200 residential and commercial properties in the past 14 years, and counting. In 2018, Brad became the first RE/MAX realtor in Windsor and Essex County to earn the prestigious Circle of Legends award for volume of properties sold.

Team Brad Bondy was also the first team to earn the Diamond RE/MAX Ontario Atlantic Canada Award for sales achievement, which they have continued to take home year after year.

Brad and his team recognize the importance of each of their families, for which they are all truly grateful.

“We build relationships daily and are honoured that we are able to help so many families in Windsor and Essex County with one of the most important decisions in their life: their homes,” Brad states.

“Call Team Brad Bondy today!”

BETTER BLINDS AND DRAPERY North American Made Custom Window Treatments at Competitive Prices Celebrating their 26th anniversary year, clients know that they placed, they return to install the treatments. “All of our staff are very can count on Better Blinds and Drapery to be there for new window experienced and helpful,” says Mark.

Interior designers and decorators are invited to bring their clients coverings, parts, service and warranty work.

A bare window can look and feel cold. “Blinds, shutters and to Better Blinds and Drapery and see the possibilities. “Home tailors draperies pull a room together,” says Kate, who has co-owned Better are also welcome to browse among our extensive fabric selection Blinds and Drapery with her husband, Mark, since they purchased that Canadian mills sourced from around the world,” Kate says.

Kate and Mark are always delighted whenever the company’s it in March 2014 when the original owner retired.

“Window treatments are esthetic as well as practical. In addition previous clients return. “They say their draperies and blinds are still to privacy, they provide insulation against winter cold and summer in great condition; they just want to update the colours or styles to match newly painted walls or new furniture,” Kate notes. “We heat, and protect flooring and furniture from fading,” Mark says.

As a specialty shop offering blinds, draperies, shutters and fabrics, continue providing the same enduring quality and service today.”

Kate points out, “We do just one thing and we do it exceedingly well. One misconcepVisit our Showroom or Have our Designer Come to You! tion is that custom means expensive or inaccessible. It does not,” Kate says. “Upholding our standard for quality is just as important to us as being competitively priced.”

Many clients are homeowners who want to dress their windows in ways that reflect their good taste. Some do a single room; others select treatments for their entire dream home. Other clients are corporate, requiring durable, attractive blinds and other coverings for the windows of their commercial buildings.

“People appreciate that we have a modern showroom with our products on display, for custom order and purchase,” Mark says.

“It’s beneficial to be able to see, feel and operate our window treatments. As certified motorization experts, having many different options ready for clients to compare is key in the selection process. There are so many choices.”

After narrowing down the products and colours they like, the clients receive a free in-home consultation for final selection.

While Kate and Mark take care of people in the Better Blinds and Drapery showroom, in clients' homes, the fulltime staff designer creates beautiful treatments to dress windows. “Many clients aren’t sure what they’re looking for. We provide as much assistance as requested,” Kate says.

Custom draperies are made locally, in Windsor, by their fulltime seamstress. In the factory attached to the showroom, staff manufacture, resize, and repair blinds. “Unlike some competitors, our blinds aren’t premade, stockpiled and then cut down. Ours are made exclusively for your windows,” Mark explains.

Their on-staff installation specialists comBETTER BLINDS Custom North American Made REMARK & DRAPERY plete the final check measure to ensure a Blinds, Drapery, Shutters & Service. perfect fit for every window before ordering.

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Windsor-Essex's LOCAL Custom & Specialty Window & Door Manufacturer Some exciting new things are happening at Kehl Windows and Doors, Windsor-Essex’s most efficient window and door manufacturer. Richard Kehl, the owner, prides himself on continuous innovation and customization. As such, he has begun developing new products this year.

“Every home show we go to, we like to show our customers our latest and most innovative products,” Richard states. “This year is no different. We are going to be unveiling all the new products that differentiate us from the rest.”

“For us, it’s always been about the most advanced, most high efficiency product we can manufacture,” Sales Representative Jules Carreira explains. “We have become a totally standalone company, from custom high end window manufacturing, swing door manufacturing, bending architectural shapes, insulating the frames, insulated glass manufacturing to staining and painting all the products we manufacture. There is no one company in Windsor-Essex that does everything we do under one roof."

“Where the box store stops,” Richard states, “is where we start.”

One of the new products is the Engineered Insulated Frame (EIF). Made with U-core Technology, the insulation is a two-part liquid product which is heated, pressurized and injected into the engineered cavities, which then solidifies, giving a dense closed cell insulation, similar an insulated steel door.

The EIF process is used in both door and window frames, which grants a number of benefits. “This insulation does not absorb water or freeze,” Richard states. “It has the same properties of rigid insulation on the exterior walls. The insulation allows for energy efficiency, structural strength and it creates a sound barrier. It also has certain fire retardant properties.”

Made from soy oil, the EIF is a completely eco-friendly product. “It’s U-Core

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technology,” Richard explains. “This is the comparative foam that you would put in swing door panels. And if you have an insulated door, you would be complimenting that by insulating your window frames. It will be the standard to insulate the frame.”

Richard has recently developed a compression door system. The door is completely customizable, from width and height, panel configuration, custom colour and stain, internal custom blinds in six different colors, decorative glass and EIF insulated frames. The door can also be combined with any side lite or architecturally shaped transom.

“The glory of this door is that I can make it a custom height or width,” Richard explains. “Normal sliding doors are currently only 59 by 79 inches. Customers can’t walk through their five foot sliding door with a tray to the grill outside. Most doors are pretty narrow."

Custom truly is the operative word. “We can make the second door—the panel—asymmetrical,” Richard states. “If you wanted a 40 inch door with an 18 inch side lite, we can custom-configure it all and even install custom size mini blinds right in the glass. This could become your primary door. And, if you need to move furniture or something, the secondary panel opens up as well.”

The compression door system is totally designed and built in-house.

Kehl Windows is carrying new FlexScreen technology.

“FlexScreens are easier to install and remove than traditional screens,” Richard states.

FlexScreens are bendable, which makes it easier to install and remove than traditional screens. Their malleable nature also removes the risk of bending the bar or damaging the frame.

As well, the FlexScreen’s ease of removal makes them incredibly beneficial in case of a fire, especially when paired with traditional rigid aluminum bars.

Kehl Windows and Doors has also developed a fire-hatch window. All building codes require egress from a basement, especially a basement bedroom.

The fire-hatch windows complies with all code requirements with a large easy-to-reach handle, full opening egress of 3.75 square feet or more, tilting for fresh air, FlexScreen for easy removal in case of an emergency— combined with an insulated frame and optional security glass, which make it a one of kind window system.

Fire-hatch windows are available in multiple different sizes.

“There are more innovated products coming this year,” Richard explains. “Those are what differentiate us from everyone else.”

These new products and features have made Kehl Windows and Doors unrivaled among their competitors.

“We’re not a production shop,” Richard states. “We’re a totally selfsufficient custom shop. There is no one in the area that does what we do.

We have our own installation teams that work for us and only us.”

Richard Kehl’s commitment to innovation and customization have truly set his company apart.

For more information on Kehl Windows and Doors call 519-738-2110 or visit kehlwindowanddoor.com.

For a free quote call

519-738-2110 370 King St. W., Harrow, ON

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JASON DERULO Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, Actor STORY BY KAREN PATON-EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAESARS WINDSOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Giving the songs of Jason Derulo over 3.5 billion spins, radio stations have helped establish the artist as a global superstar.

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WATCHING ELLEN DEGENERES warm up her TV audience by singing and dancing to the infectious, up-tempo “Want To Want Me,” the song’s writer and performer Jason Derulo busts a little move of his own in his hotel room.

“That’s a nice tune,” he remarks.

The Miami-born, hardworking entertainer has written “a ton” of songs since childhood. After penning hits for Lil Wayne, Pitbull, Diddy and other stars, Jason began generating serious buzz as a performer in his own right when he won the 2006 season finale of “Showtime at the Apollo,” an American TV series. A contract was inked afterward with Beluga Heights Records and Warner Bros. Records.

Polishing his own sound behind the scenes for years prepared Jason to hit the music scene hard. By 2009, he was 20 years old and pondering the issues that adults need to deal with in life. Top of mind was the remorse his brother felt after cheating on the girl he loved and hoped would take him back. Believing the sad experience was one a lot of people could relate to, Jason worked out the “compelling” story in the studio. The result was “Whatcha Say,” his debut single launched that year.

Scoring number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning 5x platinum status, “Whatcha Say” set a trend for the pop-rock and R&B singer, songwriter and dancer who continues to dominate the charts with his songs.

Follow-up hits “Talk Dirty,” “In My Head” and “Ridin’ Solo” certified quadrupleplatinum in sales. “Wiggle” earned triple-platinum and “Trumpets” double-platinum.

Fans bought over a million copies of several singles including “Marry Me,” “The Other Side,” “It Girl” and “I Don’t Wanna Go Home.” Collaborations on songs with Demi Lovato, Nicki Minaj, Snoop Dogg, Willy William, Farruko and other artists broadened his reach.

In 2015, Jason made the world sit up and take notice with the release of his pop single, “Want to Want Me.” It outstripped Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Madonna and Katy Perry in becoming the most added track in the history of Top 40 radio and knocked Justin Timberlake off his perch when the song was added to 156 monitored pop stations, securing Jason’s catchy hit as the biggest Top 40 US radio launch ever.

It reached number one in six countries and number five on the Canadian Hot 100.

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Outside of the recording and rehearsal studios, Jason seemed to pop up everywhere. A musical guest on “Dancing with the Stars,” “Lip Sync Battle,” “Drop the Mic” and other shows, he switched sides to judge performers competing in “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2015 and 2016.

Jason’s bright smile has also been in evidence as he accepted hardware at the Teen Choice Awards, BMI Pop Music Awards, YouTube Music Awards, CMT Music Awards and other shows.

Now age 30, Jason has proved to be a major multifaceted talent, dazzling viewers with his choreography and acting in his lush music videos. He is juggling three movie projects right now. And he is about to release his new album, “2Sides (Side 2),” the culmination of his project begun last November with the prequel release, “2Sides (Side 1),” featuring six new singles that the artist says exudes “the light and the dark side of who I am.”

More than 20 million social media followers keep track of what Jason will do next. About 5,000 of those are about to welcome the superstar to Windsor, when he performs on the Colosseum stage at Caesars Windsor in the near future.

Jason chatted with Windsor Life about his lifelong love of entertaining people.

WL: I understand you wrote your first song at age eight. What inspired you? The little girl next door or a superhero? Do you remember the words to the chorus?

Jason Derulo: It was actually a girl that was in my class who inspired that. I wanted to give her something to get her to like me, but I didn’t have any money or anything and I didn’t know what to give her. I always loved singing, so I thought I’d write her a song.

That’s what began the journey.

I remember the whole song, for sure. Can’t forget it. It was called “Crush On You.” WL: You’ve written a lot of songs since then.

JD: A ton.

WL: Of all the songs you’ve written, for yourself and other artists, is there one that always grabs you? Which is it, and why?

JD: I think my songs grab me in different ways for different purposes. I think they affect people in different ways, as well.

The intention that I had writing a song like “Ridin’ Solo” was after a breakup, I couldn’t find a song that talked about me loving me. You have to learn to love yourself before you can learn to love anybody else. That was a celebration about loving self. People come up to me and say “Ridin’ Solo” helped them through a breakup.

That’s a very special song.

“Marry Me” – people propose to that song all the time. I think that’s incredible.

“Want to Want Me” is the song that won a ton of awards and broke records. They all have their special place.

WL: As a musical chameleon refusing to be nailed down to one genre, you are constantly surprising your fans. Is there any style of music you have not yet explored that you would like to adapt to make it in your own way?

JD: I love Afrobeat. It’s been something that has re-inspired me musically. I would definitely love to dive into some Afro.

WL: Dance is as much a part of your performance as your singing.

How has your formal ballet training helped you when doing choreography for your pop and hip hop numbers?

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JD: Ballet is like any other classic. It’s the beginning. It’s what you need to learn before you learn anything else. It grounds you before you can take the next step. Musically, it’s the same thing. Studying classical music and doing opera -that got me ready. Knowing the basics, studying the human body and knowing how it moves in different styles - I studied all the different dance styles.

WL: After all those hours in the makeup chair getting made up with fur, head to tail, to play Rum Tum Tugger in the film “Cats,” was it tough seeing the harsh reviews roll in?

JD: You know what? I’ve never been one to take harsh critics too hard. I understand the industry and entertainment in general. I think one bad critic leads to another and to another and it kind of has a snowball effect. Then people stop having their own opinions.

To that, I’ve seen the movie in the theatre when people didn’t know that I was there. I’ve seen people enjoy it when it first came out, before any critics, before anything. So I’ve seen audiences erupting within the theatre. To go from that to the critics, it was definitely a bit surprising. It’s not tough for me – I have pretty thick skin.

WL: Have you begun filming “Spinning Gold” yet?

JD: No. Actually, I’ve got two action films, as well. That’s exciting.

[Titles are attached but not public at the time of this interview] WL: With “Spinning Gold” coming up at some point on your to do list, in preparing to play lead singer Ron Isley, what boggles your mind about the music business in the 1970s, when the Isley Brothers were rebooting their career with the hits “Fight the Power” and “It’s Your Thing”?

JD: It’s fascinating to see the lay of the land and the scope. They’re

similar in a lot of ways [to today], but the music industry being with the Mob back in those days is different. The Mob really controlled that era.

WL: When you have a day off, free of demands and deadlines, how do you enjoy those 24 hours? What recharges your batteries?

JD: I watch a movie. I love watching TV shows - it’s amazing to kind of fall into another world. These TV shows, they offer that because it’s not just an hour and a half, you can continue to binge watch if you’d like. So you can totally forget about your world and live in somebody else’s world for awhile. I love going to the gym, I love working out, I love to play basketball.

And I love food. Food is my first love. My favourite thing in the world is hot chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream. It’s very simple.

WL: You are coming to Caesars Windsor and playing the Colosseum on April 10. Do you have a message for your fans?

JD: 2020 is a special year. I’m really excited to get out there. I’ve been to the Colosseum before and I know how beautiful the venue is, so it will definitely be one to come and enjoy.

WL: Is there anything else you would like to tell us?

JD: We just celebrated 190 million records sold, which is very special. People are probably wondering, why would you celebrate 190? Like, that’s an odd number. But life is short. You can’t just wait for 200. If 200 ever comes around, I’ll celebrate that as well. We should celebrate the little things – celebrate everything!

The Jason Derulo concert at The Colosseum has currently been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date.

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MR. INSULATION Save Money With Mr. Insulation Do you have less snow on your roof than your neighbours? That’s a sure sign you have heat escaping.

Don’t put it off any longer. Mr. Insulation is committed to quality installation of every type of insulation to improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Owners Fred Corp and Butch Laframboise have a combined 42 years’ experience.

Together, they offer both new home builds and older home upgrades.

“Proper insulation is the best way to control your heating and cooling costs,” Fred points out. “It may seem obvious when the weather is cold and you notice drafts that can be sealed properly, but it is the air conditioning in the summer that is costing you even more money.”

Insulation can settle after 20 years. Spray foam insulation offers several benefits including: significant savings on energy costs, added strength to the building structure, does not require a vapour barrier, is permanent and will not sag, stops air and moisture infiltration, eliminates ice damming, improves air quality and keeps dust and pollen out.

“Union Gas customers can qualify for a rebate of up to $5,000 towards improving the insulation of their home,” Fred advises.

The Mr. Insulation free home consultation can tell you if you are eligible for a grant and provide cost effective solutions towards improving your home’s insulation capacity.

Butch is the person you speak with during a consultation, while Fred ensures that the installation is completed to your satisfaction.

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There is a greater need than ever before for good insulation in your home due to rising energy costs.

Attention: Riverside and South Windsor Residents – If you are a resident of South Windsor or Riverside and reside in one of the hundreds of homes built before 1970, then your home was built without

insulation. In some cases, grants can cover up to 90% of the complete upgrade.

“Not even half of the homes in these areas have taken advantage of this rebate,” says Butch.

“Don’t waste any more time, energy or money,” Fred says. “Give us a call.”

Call Fred or Butch at Mr. Insulation today at 519-962-6062 to arrange a free consultation.

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SEACLIFF MANOR RETIREMENT RESIDENCE An Independent, Supportive Community for Modern Seniors Comfortable in her stylish suite, relaxing after another wonderful meal prepared by the chef and anticipating an afternoon outing along nearby Lake Erie, a Seacliff Manor resident maintains she is living on a cruise ship that is permanently docked.

“That gives an idea of how we spoil our residents here in our retirement residence,” says general manager Kari Sleiman.

Individuals and couples who move into Seacliff Manor Retirement Residence quickly realize that rather than losing independence, they regain it. Their confidence also comes back with the knowledge that caring staff are on hand to provide support when needed.

“After they arrive, nearly everybody says, ‘I should have done this years ago,’” Kari observes.

Opened September 2017, Seacliff Manor is the fulfillment of a vision Rob Piroli had nearly 15 years ago. “He saw a need for modern senior care in Leamington that provided quality residence options, activities and assistance,” says Kari.

The Leamington family man and owner of Piroli Group Developments “has the loyalty of Seacliff Manor’s staff. We are all honoured to take care of our neighbours.”

Some residents first experience the Piroli standard by living in Seacliff Heights senior apartments next door. “When they want more peace of mind, they move into beautiful suites in Seacliff Manor,” Kari explains.

Designed to help residents age in place with dignity, the retirement residence offers options in care services. Some people want to indulge in their interests and make new friends – while letting Seacliff Manor staff look after cooking and cleaning.

Other residents benefit from specialized services, including supported independent living, assisted living, memory care and dementia programs. Although Seacliff Manor is not a longterm care residence, skilled registered nursing staff are onsite round the clock. “We provide our support staff with extensive education, so they know how best to assist residents living with dementia,” Kari says. “Residents wear a pendant so they can always reach a staff member. If someone is missing at mealtime, our wellness staff checks to make sure the resident is okay.”

Couples living at Seacliff Manor often have one spouse with memory loss. Kari says, “It helps to be with others who understand what they are experiencing, instead of feeling isolated.”

Every day, Seacliff Manor offers a full range of social and recreational events appealing to residents in their 60s to 90s. Calories gained on baking days in the craft room/community kitchen are burned off in fitness classes and the indoor walking club.

The Spiked Tomato is the most popular

gathering spot. Teas, wine and cheese socials and fellowship following weekly worship services are held in the fully licenced lounge.

Fine dining is a highlight to be savoured. The creative chef celebrates the bounty of the county, selecting fresh local produce and quality meats to prepare à la carte meals. Residents and their guests appreciate the restaurant-style service, permitting each person to choose from the menu. “Our residents love the homemade chicken parmigiana, signature salads and hand-made burgers,” Kari notes.

There is no assigned seating in the dining room, enabling people to choose their seats and get to know other residents. “Families are happy to see mom and dad being social again, finding new friendships and interests,” says Kari.

She invites families curious about Seacliff Manor Retirement Residence to come for a tour and stay for a meal. “Our residents can tell you why they proudly call this their home.”

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ROYAL LEPAGE BINDER REAL ESTATE Helping You Get Your Move On! They say that if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. Perhaps no one embodies this idea more completely than Beth Rezoski of Royal LePage Binder Real Estate.

Funnily enough, Beth had a longstanding interest in real estate since before it became her profession. “I helped about five or six different friends find houses,” she recalls. “I’d get really excited. I’d tell them, ‘Oh my gosh! I just found every single thing you told me you were looking for in a home!’ And then one day my friend Craig said, ‘You’d make a great Real Estate Agent,’ and that was how the seed got planted.”

Emboldened, Beth studied for her license and began helping people find their dream homes. Beth has been working in the real estate industry since 2004, serving her clients with boundless enthusiasm and endless dedication.

Because, as she explains, real estate is about relationships. “It’s not a sales career, it’s a service career,” Beth states. “Going that extra mile makes all the difference. Whether you’re buying or selling, you need someone in your corner you can trust.”

Beth takes every step of the journey with her clients—before, during and after the sale. And she has a knack for making every home sparkle. Beth works with several different teams of professionals, including stagers, lenders, a cleanup team, movers, painters and handymen.

“I like to stage the home and make it stand out,” Beth explains.

“That way, people really enjoy going through it. They feel like they belong there. It must be depersonalized, almost like a suite at the Marriot! Buyers have to walk in and say, ‘Yep, I could live here.’”

In addition, Beth excels at helping her clients through the downsizing process. “I deal with a lot of RIGHT-sizing,” Beth explains.

“People who have lived at the same place for decades and have made the huge decision to move. It’s a whole new chapter in their life and I’m sensitive to the emotional side of that. I guide them through the entire process.”

As well, every time Beth sells a home, a portion of each commission cheque is donated to Royal LePage’s national charity, The Shelter Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping women and children escape domestic violence. Every dollar stays local.

And when it comes to real estate, she stresses that its always better to strike when the iron is hot.

“Windsor has never seen a market like this,” Beth explains. “This is not the time to go it alone. There’s a lot of noise out there, but getting professional real estate advice has never been more crucial.

Don’t wait until spring/summer to list your house. List it now before everyone else does. Supply is low and demand is at an all-time high with low interest rates and a relaxed mortgage stress test.”

Give Beth a call today to start the next chapter of YOUR story! “I really, really love what I do,” Beth states. “It doesn’t feel like work at all. I have a desk drawer full of thank you cards with a common theme: ‘You made our move so easy.’”

Has the Real Estate market peaked in Windsor/Essex?

Let’s have a talk.

519.257.3260 / hello@bethrezoski.com 1637 Provincial Rd. www.whywindsor.com 519-969-0300 62

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FAHRHALL HOME COMFORT SPECIALISTS

Technological Breakthroughs Are Achieving Greater Energy Savings

Seeing how well new HVAC systems were working in his clients’ houses and condominiums, Scott Stevens headed to his basement for a good look. “My own house is 120 years old and had a 30 year old furnace. I finally put a new furnace in and it’s amazing. This past winter, it definitely saved a lot on heating bills,” says the general manager of residential heating, ventilation and air conditioning for Fahrhall Home Comfort Specialists, a division of Vollmer.

“Some clients have had systems lasting 45 years with maybe 60% energy efficiency. After changing to a Lennox or Daikin furnace with up to 98% efficiency, they no longer hear the beast in the basement roaring to life. Instead of a big push of air through the vents, there is pleasant soft flow of air. They are happy,” Scott says.

For homeowners concerned their 10 year or older heating system is inefficient, slowing down and too costly to run, Scott recommends preventative maintenance. “Our licensed professional technicians can clean your furnace and check for signs indicating problems. If there are major issues, we can either repair your old furnace or install a new heating unit.”

“Homeowners turn their HVAC on and off and don’t think much about it unless there is a concern. Like maintaining your car, maintaining your furnace and AC are important. Fahrhall’s convenient, affordable annual maintenance programs cover HVAC units made by all manufacturers. We serve Windsor, Essex County and Chatham.”

Hot, humid days ahead make air conditioning a necessity. Moving to a new compact air conditioning unit saves on electrical usage.

Fahrhall carries high efficiency Lennox and Daikin units with 16 to 18 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. These permit homeowners wanting to reduce their carbon footprint to cut down the amount of energy used to cool their home.

“Modern HVAC units can be used in many different ways to enhance air quality. Consider adding optional equipment, like a humidifier, dehumidifier or heat recovery ventilation, to expel stale air and bring fresh air indoors. To further control humidity, leave the furnace circulation fan on 24/7 – it’s pennies a day but allows you to always have air flow in your house,” Scott advises.

Offering both traditional yet high-efficiency HVAC units and green options, such as Green SunSource solar power modules, Fahrhall is helping homeowners transition to new comfort solutions.

“We’re geeked about our leading-edge options,” says Scott. “For instance, Bosch tankless water heaters and other units heat water only when you need it. Don’t spend money on extra gas and water; tuck it away in a corner and reclaim space the big tank used to take up.”

One comfort solution the Fahrhall team is eager to install is the new Daikin Fit System. It is a fully modulating, communicating HVAC system, delivering a nice soft wave of perfectly heated or cooled air. “The Daikin Fit System never really turns off - it simply increases and decreases the fan speed and desired temperature. The furnace is up to 98% efficient. The 18 SEER AC unit is quiet, thin and narrow. The home’s HVAC, air purifier, humidifier and other comfort equipment can be controlled by a smart thermostat that also communicates with Alexa and the homeowner’s smartphone.”

The system is only available locally through Fahrhall, the exclusive Daikon dealer between Windsor and London.

“Ask us about solutions for your home,” Scott says. “We’re happy to give a free consultation.”

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ROB GRUICH, ROYAL LEPAGE BINDER REAL ESTATE An Experienced Professional for Today’s Housing Market “A wild rollercoaster ride” is how Rob Gruich describes the Windsor-Essex County housing market right now.

“Our region has never experienced anything like these homebuying conditions before, with multiple purchase offers being made simultaneously – and often going over the asking price,” says the seasoned Realtor® with Royal LePage Binder Real Estate. “As a home seller or buyer, you need a Realtor® with experience to guide you through.”

Seasoned Realtors® know the true value of each property. They strive to ensure both the seller and buyer get a fair price at clearly defined, reasonable terms.

Rob, a lifelong Windsorite in the real estate business for 30 years, has earned wisdom in the field. He has found property solutions for local people throughout the economy’s boom and bust cycles and adapts strategies to meet current times.

“Today, more than ever, experience makes the difference in whether clients get the deal they want,” Rob notes.

For instance, when writing an offer to purchase, he applies his knowhow to craft clauses that demonstrate his client is serious.

He protects his client’s interests, positioning the offer so it stands out from competing bids. For his sellers, Rob scrutinizes offers to determine which buyer has the ability to close the transaction – a challenge in this escalating market.

Although Rob utilizes digital technology, “when an offer presentation is happening,

2019

I am there in person. I want to give you every advantage – and that means making certain you are fully represented.”

Appreciating that for sellers and buyers, “this is not a game,” Rob observes, “your home is likely your biggest investment. I value that. I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night if my client paid too much for a house or lost a solid offer from a prospective homebuyer.”

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That sense of responsibility is partly why Rob has been serving three generations of the same families over the past three decades.

“My clients’ loyalty is the backbone of my success,” Rob says. “In doing right by them, people come back. It is really humbling and heartwarming when I get calls from clients asking me to please take care of their family member or friend. There is no greater feeling than that.”

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1637 Provincial Rd. 519-969-0300

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HOME IMPROVEMENT EXPERTS Proudly Contracting

construction. “There’s a lot of planning involved,” Terry states. “Just getting the print drawings and pricing done takes about two months. Plus another two months of permits. All in all, it takes about six months to get the plan in place. So, it’s always best to plan ahead with us.”

And Terry’s commitment to customer service is one of his highest priorities.

“On a day-to-day basis, what I hear the most is that we’re the only guys who return your phone call and the only guys who show up on time,” Terry states. “We like being kept busy. We like to work.

We just like building things!”

Contact Home Improvement Experts today at 519-818-5388 for quotes and general inquiries! You can also check out photos of completed projects on their website, www.hiexperts.com.

In this competitive real estate market, an increasing number of homeowners are choosing to renovate. This may include installing an addition or renovating a kitchen, bathroom or basement. However, renovations can be synonymous with stress.

Fortunately, Terry Kipping and the team of experienced professionals at Home Improvement Experts can make any renovation a seamless experience.

Home Improvement Experts is a one-stop-shop for all your home renovation needs.

“We offer complete renovation construction,” owner Terry Kipping explains. “We offer all services. We have all subtrades in-house. Electricians. Plumbers. You don’t have to worry about anything. We do all the drawings for you.

We’ll show up, find out what you want, design it and build it from scratch. We do everything from the ground up.”

Terry plied his trade in the construction industry for over 30 years before venturing into the remodeling business. Over their last 15 years, Home Improvement Experts has designed and renovated hundreds of homes across Windsor, London and Toronto.

“What sets us apart is experience,” Terry states. “We do complete renovation construction. Every job is different. Every project we tackle is unique. You name it, we can do it.”

Home Improvement Experts hosts a vast range of services, including additions and renovations, basement finishing, concrete and landscaping, outdoor living and pools, kitchens and bathrooms, custom millwork and bars and much more!

“We do a lot of full basement renovation,” Terry states. “We can install kitchens, bars, custom millwork, that type of thing. I always tell people that summer is a great time to renovate basements. That way, you’re not in the house being inconvenienced. You can be outThe Home Improvement Experts are a side barbecuing while we’re in your space.” top to bottom full service general contracting company.

In addition, Home Improvement Experts has recently developed a new breakwall ex• Wave Suppressors • Kitchens/Bathrooms • Waterproofing tension service to combat rising water levels.

• Breakwall Extensions • Basement Finishing • Building Maintenance “Because of the higher water levels, we’ve • • • Concrete Lifting Concrete Docks Outdoor Living/Pools designed a system of wave suppressors,” Terry • • • Electrical/Plumbing Additions/Renovations Custom Millwork/Bars explains. “Basically, we weld a steel plate on top of the breakwall at a 45 degree angle.

• Concrete/Landscaping • Outdoor Kitchens/Fireplaces • Excavating That way, when the water hits the wall, it curls back. Then we install a concrete deck to lock that in place and raise the height.

That way, your property isn’t being washed out.”

CALL FOR A The breakwall extension service is perfect QUOTE TODAY! for any homeowner living on the water con519–818–5388 cerned about erosion or damage to a dock. hiexperts.com The team at Home Improvement Experts recommend that you allow for a six-month turnaround, from design to the start of

Doing it right the first time costs less than doing it again!

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BE THE BEST BEE YOU CAN BE New Children’s Book Addresses Perils of Social Media STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN “I WANT TO FEEL connected, authentically not electronically. I feel suffocated by my insecurities, as the hunger of perfection is shoved down my throat. I touch the grip of a bow as I shoot arrows of negativity toward myself, hitting the target, and shattering the mirror.”

When 16-year-old Michela Lepera was asked to write a self-portrait poem for her Enhanced English class, she noticed something blocking her from connecting with her positive attributes. She was quickly able to identify the source.

In “A Prisoner of Social Media” Michela intimately characterizes the pressure that social media places on everyone, especially teenagers.

“There are people my age who say that social media is great,” Michela explains. “But, there’s another side that everybody ignores. There’s this standard, for girls especially. Girls my age will creep all these accounts and see celebrities. There’s never a flaw.

If there’s acne, they’ll fade it out. You’re staring at a picture that seems perfect, but it’s not real.”

Constantly comparing yourself to an illusory standard can trap anyone in a quagmire of self-loathing. This presents younger generations with an especially precarious dynamic, who don’t remember a time before these platforms.

Top: Co-authors Alma and John Hogan.

Above left to right: The Hogan’s illustrating grandchildren, Eden Miggins, Angelica Lepera, Makai Miggins, Michela Lepera, Ireland Hogan, Sydney Hogan.

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“My children are smaller, so I have more control over what they’re exposed to online,” Jonna Miggins, Michela’s aunt, states.

“But I see it from a different perspective. I see how it has changed my relationships with my nieces. Social media promotes an ideal that isn’t authentic.”

Touched by Michela’s poem, her grandparents—Alma and John Hogan, two retired secondary school teachers—began working on a children’s book to directly combat these issues.

Be the Best Bee You Can Be tells the story of Beatrice. After being ignored by her screen-locked siblings, Beatrice wanders into the garden, only to encounter a kindred spirit in the form of a kindly bee. Feeling envious of others and alone, the bee teaches Beatrice that everyone is special in their own way.

“You’re already good enough,” Alma explains. “You’ve got Godgiven worth, that no one should be able to chip away at. We’re thinking of how social media will affect future generations. How do we empower these little ones so that they don’t fall into the same trap that our teens have?”

Be the Best Bee You Can Be posits a simple message: be the best person you can be.

John and Alma wrote the book together, often over morning coffee.

“The lines of the story would come to me at three in the morning,” Alma explains. “The story was effortless.”

The book emulates the rhyming couplet style of Dr. Seuss.

“Beatrice spotted a bee. She was amazed to hear a voice,” the Hogan’s write. “The bumblebee buzzed busily around her flower of choice. The bee said, ‘I feel a little troubled and sad. I look at my life, and it makes me very mad.’”

The writing portion turned out to the easy part. The real challenge was the illustrations.

At their son-in-law’s suggestion, the Hogan’s conscripted their grandchildren—Sydney Hogan, Ireland Hogan, Eden Miggins and Makai Miggins—as painters.

“Makai would come in and splash water all over the page, not dilute his colour, dab it in, and then pick it up and let it run,” Alma recalls. “All these things I had learned in my art classes, I transferred them to my grandchildren. When we started to develop the characters, they each took on a character they were interested in.”

“It was really fun,” Sydney states. “It was a new experience for me. I’ve never illustrated a book before.”

“I loved working with Grandma and Grandpa!” Eden exclaims.

“I had fun painting.”

After the book was completed, the Hogan’s self-published their book through Friesen Press.

“We went through about six different channels doing this book,” Alma explains. “So when Friesen picked up the book, I said, ‘I don’t even know if this is worth anything.’ But Friesen was extremely helpful because our computer skills are next to none. That was a very big challenge for us. It was, as my daughter would say, beyond my scope of practice.”

Fortunately, Alma and John were also able to receive technical support from their grandchildren. Angelica Lepera, John and Alma’s oldest grandchild, even stepped in and helped edit a short trailer for the book’s release.

The book is available for purchase online at friesenpress.com and almaandjohnhogan.com.

Be the Best Bee You Can Be will also be stocked at Biblioasis on Wyandotte Street and the Indigo in Lakeshore.

The Hogan’s will be celebrating the release of their book with a launch on April 4th at the Art Gallery of Windsor, at 401 Riverside Dr E, from noon to four.

“We invited the kids friends from school,” Alma states.

And ultimately, the book was written for the very children who

illustrated it. “The reason we decided to write the book is because of our four youngest grandchildren, who haven’t been affected by social media yet,” Alma explains. “We wanted to give them an antidote. A springboard to say: embrace who you are. Just be the best bee you can be.”

“I feel like there are certain books that stick with you,” Michela states. “I remember The Giving Tree. As you grow up, you subconsciously take those messages with you. When I grew up, social media had just started. My cousins are going to be growing up in its heyday. If you get the message into their heads at a young age, it stays with them.”

“Sydney will come home from school and talk about her friends making videos and posting them online,” Angelica states. “It starts so young. You don’t even realize it. It’s important to reinforce the book’s positive message at a young age. Remind them that it’s okay that you don’t look like these models or these famous people. It’s okay to be who you are. It’s okay to be different.”

And these conversations are more important now than ever, with our growing awareness of mental health.

“There’s a lot of conversations about mental health geared towards adults,” Jonna states. “Bell does the #LetsTalk and those type of things. Very little focus is aimed towards children. It’s really, really important that we start conversations about mental health when they’re learning how to talk, when they’re learning more about who they are. We’ve all been guilty of comparing ourselves to somebody else. Those conversations are so, so important to instill in them when they’re young. Be your best. You’ll always be good enough.”

Or, as Beatrice puts it: “The bee learned to be the best bee she can be. I think this message applies to you and me. JUST BE!” WLM

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BON

APPETIT! dining & nightlife guide

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 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.

Closed Sunday and Holidays. 519-728-2224 523 Notre Dame St., Belle River.

Cramdon’s Tap and Eatery - South Windsor’s friendly gathering place. Offering great food at affordable prices. Satellite sports and billiards in a pub-like setting. www.cramdons.com 2950 Dougall Ave. 519-966-1228 COLLECTION 2020

A Weepers' Family Tradition (Est. 1949)

Corner of Manning & E.C. Row, Tecumseh ON 519-979-3642 / rosserreeves.com

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. www.fratellipastagrill.com The Hungry Wolf - The Hungry Wolf serves up Windsor’s best Greek, Canadian, Mexican and Lebanese food. Home of the best gyros in Windsor! 3422 Walker Rd., Windsor 519-250-0811.

25 Amy Croft Dr., Tecumseh 519-735-0072. hungrywolfrestaurant.com.

Eye exams for all ages Ocular health exams including diabetic, glaucoma and cataracts Laser surgery consultations Glasses and contact lenses

Johnny Shotz - Tecumseh’s #1 roadhouse and home of the Chicken Deluxe. Serving Halibut every Friday. Breakfast served Sunday. 37 HD TVs, 15 beers on tap. Follow us on facebook.

13037 Tecumseh Rd. E. 519-735-7005

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7786 Wyandotte St. E. | 519.945.8000 | guthrieoptometry.com

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

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INVESTING IN

MEN’S HEALTH

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR TWO CHARITY EVENTS FOCUSING ON MEN’S HEALTH IN 2020:

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Windsor Regional Hospital will be making significant investment to acquire much needed urology equipment in 2020.

The community’s support is essential to improving and enhancing the current program.

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Mandaloun – Erie Street’s newest addition.

Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine located at the old La Zingara – 769 Erie Street East. Try the signature chef ’s plate: marinated beef tenderloin with potatoes, onions, tomatoes and mandaloun sauce. Open for lunch and dinner.

519-253-6262. mandaloun.ca 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.

1-800-991-7777 ext. 22481. caesarswindsor.com 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.

O’Maggio’s Kildare House - British-style pub.

Award-winning halibut fish and chips, housemade burgers, Irish nachos and crispy chicken wings. 21 cold beers on tap. Live music several nights a week. Outdoor patio. Takeout or dine in. 1880 Wyandotte St. E., Windsor.

519-915-1066. kildarehouse.com.

Paramount Fine Foods - Serving flavourful Lebanese dishes like no other! Famous for charcoal BBQ meats, including vegetarian and vegan options. Dine in, take-out and catering. Kids play area available. 3184 Dougall Ave., Windsor 519-915-9020. paramountfinefoods.com.

Tea House Windsor - Local cafeteria offers Eastern/Western snacks with coffees, teas and drinks.

We make all fresh with the specialty of Pink Kashmiri tea. Dine in, take-out, catering. Frozen homemade snacks available. Halal options. Monfri 9am-4pm. Closed weekends and holidays.

Located in the Jackson Park Health Centre.

2475 McDougall St., Windsor Call to order: 226-348-6151 The 19th at Wildwood Eatery and Banquet Room - Awesome home cooked meals, known for our Daily Specials, Genuine Broaster Chicken and Fish Friday’s. Open Seasonally May to October.

Banquet room available for any type of celebration. The Best in the County.

519-726-6176 ext 17 www.wildwoodgolfandrvresort.com

HUNGRYWOLFRESTAURANT.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. 1731 Wyandotte St. E., Windsor. 519-915-6145. catering@vitospizzeria.com.

3422 Walker Rd., Windsor | 519.250.0811 25 Amy Croft Dr., Tecumseh | 519.735-0072

For information on listings and advertising in Bon Appetit! please call 519-979-5433.

“Home of the Best Gyros in Windsor”

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A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS Crime Stoppers 35th Anniversary STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN

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ON SATURDAY APRIL 25TH, Crime Stoppers of Windsor and Essex County will be celebrating their 35th Anniversary at the Giovanni Caboto Club.

“Last year was a banner year for our program,” Tyler Lamphier, the Program Manager, explains. “For all stats across the board. Cases solved, tips in, rewards authorized.”

For Tyler, Crime Stoppers is all about giving a voice to the voiceless.

“The easiest way to describe Crime Stoppers is that we’re an anonymous information exchange source that connects the public and police,” Tyler explains. “We’ll take your information and provide it to the appropriate agency, while maintaining your anonymity, so that you don’t have to worry about anyone finding out that it was you who supplied the information.”

Tyler first became involved with Crime Stoppers over four years ago, after some time working at the Safety Village doing children’s programming.

“I love public relations; getting involved with different charities,” Tyler explains. “I first started working with Crime Stoppers at a community clean-up event. I became aware of the program through that. Crime Stoppers really speaks to me because it’s so unique. We’re the only non-profit program in Windsor and Essex County that is dedicated to fighting, solving and reducing crime.”

Clockwise from above: Tyler Lamphier, Program Manager, Lina Busico, Board President, David Forester, Canadian Crime Stoppers President, Cst. Amanda Allen, Police Coordinator and Charlie Hotham, Past President; Cst Kristina Gilboe, Police Coordinator; The Crime Stoppers of Windsor and Essex County Board of Directors (l-r): Tyler Lamphier, Dianne Bako, Ernie Harris, Kelly Shelson, Don Cyr, Lina Busico, Charlie Hotham, Cher Fahringer, Rene Jacques, Kris McInnis and Moe Susa; Mose Susa, Inspector Steve Wortley, Inspector Todd Cox and Kaitlyn Smyth taking part in "Bail or Jail”, one of Crime Stoppers's oldest, most recognizable events.

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Crime Stoppers was first launched in Calgary in 1982 and currently has 37 programs across Ontario, each with its own governing Board of Directors.

The organization first came to Windsor in 1985, after a grisly murder shocked the community.

“There had just been a murder investigation,” Tyler states. “The Windsor Police decided to put together a local division by assembling a group of like-minded individuals.”

Thanks to the implementation of the program, the murder was solved shortly thereafter.

And during the last 35 years, Crime Stoppers of Essex County has only continued to work wonders within the community.

“I am always hearing stories about how somebody wishes they could do something, but they don’t know how,” Tyler states. “Or they fear repercussions. To be able to have a program like ours is really rewarding.”

After almost four decades serving the community, Crime Stoppers will be hosting a gala on April 25th to celebrate their 35 years of service.

“Throughout the many years we’ve been in the community, we’ve had a number of different officers, both Windsor Police and OPP, that have poured their heart and soul into the program,” Tyler explains. “We want to look back and honour both the numerous accomplishments of those individuals and the program as a whole. And we want to celebrate with the public because they play a huge role in Crime Stoppers. Without the information they bravely provide, we wouldn’t be able to help as much as we do.”

In addition, the gala is also an opportunity for Crime Stoppers to look forward at their role in the tumultuous landscape of the changing times.

“People are living their lives a lot differently than they were 35 years ago,” Tyler states. “Social media has caused people to live more openly. But at the same time, people have a desire for privacy. So Crime Stoppers is evolving to help meet those needs.”

To adapt to this new digital era, Crime Stoppers launched their Online Tip-Taking Program several years ago.

“It has been extremely beneficial to the program and those that use it,” Tyler states.

“It allows people to submit not only their tips, but photos, videos, sound and audio samples. Screenshots. Anything that they can use to corroborate their story.”

The Online Tip-Taking Program, true to the Crime Stoppers mandate, safeguards the tipster’s identity.

“The program scrubs information from the files,” Tyler reports. “Any of the metadata attached to the photos, such as location, time and date, is immediately wiped.

Our scanners don’t get that. But they do get the evidence.”

Crime Stoppers continues to prioritize the public’s anonymity in this new age, often by embracing antiquated technology.

“Our phones don’t have caller ID, so we can’t call back,” Tyler explains. “We actually pay extra money to use outdated technology so that you can’t be traced. And thanks to our online services, we can actually have an anonymous messenger-style dialogue with a tipster, which people can choose to reply to or not.”

Crime Stoppers is also delving deeper into social media to let the public know that they always have a voice.

“We’re advertising, bringing together more public awareness,” Tyler states. “We’re working with Windsor Police and the OPP to ensure that the cases they’re looking for are broadcasted to our followers, so that if they have information, they can reach out to us.”

But, even with the hurdles and complications of new technology, Crime Stoppers remains devoted to empowering the community.

“Oftentimes, people will see, hear or come across something,” Tyler explains.

“And they feel powerless because they want to do something, but they don’t necessarily want to take the risk. They don’t want to have any fear of repercussion or shaming directed at them. By allowing them to anonymously submit information, it empowers them to act without fear. They can submit their information. They’ll be able to clear their conscience and know that they’ve done the right thing.”

Doors to the 35th anniversary celebration open at 5:30, with dinner starting an hour later. The event offers a cash bar and live entertainment by Brand X. Tickets are $85 each, with tables of 10 on special for $800.

All proceeds go towards Crime Stopper programming, payouts and education.

“This year is shaping up to be a great one,” Tyler explains. “We’ve started off with a bang. I really enjoy working with the program. I work with wonderful officers and I have a very dedicated Board of Directors.

I’m surrounded by great people. And we do great work.”

WLM

Andrew J. Smith Real Estate Inc.

Expect MORE From Your Realtor!

WHEN YOU WORK WITH ANDREW SMITH, you’re working with a long-term partner who is committed to seeing you through the entire process.

Andrew Smith has been in the business for 15 years. Four years ago, he launched his own company: Deerbrook Andrew J. Smith Real Estate Inc., a franchise of Deerbrook Realty.

“I always wanted to start my own company out here in Tecumseh,” Andrew states. “There’s now eight people that work for me. We handle residential and commercial resale, new home construction of single family houses and townhomes and represent five different builders. My job is to set everybody up and put them in a position to succeed.”

Andrew is unique among realtors, in that he has a guiding hand in every step of the process, from new home development to resale. “When it comes to new home construction, I develop everything from scratch,” Andrew explains. “The design. The exterior. The interior. I choose the finish. Right down to countertops and flooring.”

This approach allows Andrew to provide his customers with their dream homes.

“It’s about customer service,” Andrew states. “A bit of he also works with several highly-trained realtors that can match his hand holding, but that’s what people need. My job is to lis- expertise. ten to what people want, what they’re looking for. This way, “I make sure all my realtors are excellent,” Andrew states. “I’m no good we’re keeping ahead of the market and what buyers need. without them. When people reach out to me and want to see a house, I I’m involved with every step of the process.” have the right people in place to help them.”

And Andrew truly does oversee the entire process, from Together, Andrew and his team are there for you for as long as it takes, the lot size, to marketing and advertising, to exterior reno- from the initial appraisal, arranging the photographer, the stager, marketing, vations to handling the offers themselves. advertising, to the sold sign going up on the front lawn to closing the deal.

Andrew and his team dabble in everything, from large“I want all our potential customers to know that you can deal with me, scale townhouse projects in Lakeshore and LaSalle to but my sales staff and the people that I have working with me are doing single-family homes in East Riverside, Amherstburg, LaSalle just as good a job,” Andrew states. “All of my associates can gladly handle and Lakeshore. They work with some of the county’s finest anything that I deal with. My people really love it. I give them all the tools builders, including MasterCraft Homes, DeThomasis Cus- they need to succeed.” tom Homes, Alta Nota Custom Homes, Imperial Homes In addition, Andrew has remained true to his roots, continuing to work and Estate Custom Homes. with resale. “With all the projects that we have, we still do a ton of resale,” “We sell about 170 to 185 homes a year,” Andrew states. Andrew states. “That’s how I started. We remain true to that. Frankly, it’s “This year, we’re aiming to surpass that. We’re shooting for fun for me.” over 200 and we’re well on our way.”

Because, at the end of the day, for Andrew, it’s all about turning houses And, while Andrew’s phenomenal dedication to his into homes. “I love what I do,” Andrew states. “I love the thrill of the sale, customers and oversight have put his company on the map, I love the process and most importantly, I love the people.”

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Listen & Really Hear

HOROSCOPE ARIES MAR 21 - APR 20: Balance could be the key for getting you through this difficult time period. You may find yourself seeking a win-win situation for all. Try to avoid being impulsive or taking on too much to do until you know exactly what you CAN do. Avoid making promises you may not be able to keep.

TAURUS APR 21 - MAY 21: Unusual friendships can develop with people who seem to be different than you are.

You are very much down to earth and you could use a little bit of fun once in a while.

You are very good at finding solutions to problems others do not even notice. Just the facts are what you are looking for.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUN 21: This is a time when what you say or do may come back to haunt you. If you do not follow the rules, most likely you will run head first into a brick wall, so-to-speak. You seem unable to resist taking chances which can put you right back where you started from.

Caution is the right road to follow now.

CANCER JUN 22 - JUL 23: Trust your intuition. You need to give yourself more credit for taking responsible action where and when it is needed. You should save your energy for what matters most. You know better than anyone else what is good for you. Do not let others wear you down and drain you of your strength.

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It may be time to let go of high expectations that guided you once upon a time. Change is inevitable and you may need to go with the flow. It is neither good nor bad. It just is what it is. Wisdom you have gained from past actions can help you along the way.

VIRGO AUG 24 - SEP 23: You might be able to step into the position of a leader or receive a promotion at work.

Asking rather than telling someone what to do may get you farther ahead than you ever thought possible. Create the perfect moment rather than wait for it to happen.

BY LESLIE NADON

LIBRA SEP 24 - OCT 23: Back and forth. Back and forth. It is hard for you to make a decision. If you wait too long someone else might jump in and claim the prize. Using common sense might be the best thing you can do. Ask yourself what will happen if I keep on waiting for another day? Really? Stay strong as you move on.

SCORPIO OCT 24 - NOV 22: You can heal or you might hurt. Why would you do that? It would be like giving up gold for silver. Think about what the future holds for you. You can make it happen. How would you change things if you could? Do not throw away that which you have worked so hard to accomplish up until now.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21: An old door shuts and a new door opens.

You have been there before. You will be there again. It might help if you take up a new hobby to take your attention off of could I, or should I? Something you like to do may suddenly give you the answer for which you have been seeking.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 - JAN 20: You are not always comfortable in the spotlight. However, at this time, you might not be able to get out of it. There is a lot for you to do! And suddenly, without any warning, you are doing it. You are there for others and others are there for you. Together you should be able to get it done.

AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 19: You may find someone pushing you forward. Too much is going on for you to ignore it. Repressed feelings burst out at the wrong time and place. It may feel as if the past is interfering with the future. Stay in the here and now.

PISCES FEB 20 - MAR 20 You may not see what others see. Rather than distancing yourself from them, find out what you have in common and work with that. Others look up to you as a mentor. It helps when you set yourself up as a good example for them to follow.

Renee and Kevin Laforet.

Nicoleta Burlea, Ashley Ruccolo, Kasey Martins, Donna Gervais, Ruth Paesano, Susanne Lengyel, Amber Hunter, Zishan Ali, Renee Laforet, Doris Lapico, Dave Hunter, Tania Sorge, Lisa Franchi, Samantha Arpino, Lina Nardiello, Bianca Franchi, Elaine Boccioletti, Laurie Ohler, Linda Ruccolo, Lisa Albano, Linda Santos, Sandra Presland.

Transition to Betterness Went East With Their 23rd Annual Gala Photography by Zishan Ali, Prateek Rustagi, Element Photography This year's theme was inspired by Moroccan, Indian and Arabian cultures.

T2B's Annual Gala is recognized as one of Windsor's most fashionable and charitable nights of the year, and this year raised over $400,000!

Jody Braithwaite and Fawez ( FO ) Abiad.

This evening would not be possible without the support of our incredibly generous community. Thank you to our Title Sponsors for the evening: The Stephanie and Barry Zekelman Foundation and LiUNA!625/Bluesfest, along with our Host Sponsor, Caesars Windsor, and our VIP Sponsors, FA Investments/The Abiad Family and the Rosati Group.

Dr. Donna Jezdic and Esteem Medical Staff.

Amber and Dave Hunter.

Doris Lapico and John Ondejko.

Tamara and Dan Boland, Mary and Michael Dudar, Lasha Dudar and Jamie Wright.

Carol and Bob Robinson, Brooke and Jason Watorek, Victoria and Chuck Thompson.

Sophia and John Chisholm, Sue and Ken Quinn.

Rhonda and Paul Slavik, Carolyn and Vlasta Vacik.

Right: Ashley and Anthony Abdallah, Chris Kiritsis and Sara Abdallah, Doris and Joseph Abdallah, Francesca and Joseph Jr. Abdallah.

Ruth Paesano, Gina Galati, Tania Sorge, Margaret Corio, Antonia Maceroni.

NATURE ON A GRAND SCALE Exploring U.S. Desert Parks

STORY KAREN PATON-EVANS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAM AND BILL SENEY

Top: The vast Grand Canyon in Arizona continues to be gradually sculpted by wind and the Colorado River, which runs 446 kilometres through the park. The canyon is wide, averaging 1.6 kilometres in depth and spanning as much as 28.8 kilometres rim to rim. Above: Pam and Bill Seney of Windsor peek through a window naturally carved in a mound of Aztec red sandstone forming the Valley of Fire Nevada State Park.

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THE GORGEOUS CACTI GARDEN growing in the desert heat of his North Las Vegas home is nothing like the flower beds retiree Gary Seney knew as a kid living in Essex County.

“I had no idea how beautiful cactus flowers are. There are hundreds of varieties,” says his brother Bill.

Revelations came fast upon Windsorite Bill and his wife, Pam, during their trip south from May 16 to 25, 2019. “We don’t gamble but it’s a cheap flight from Windsor to Vegas, which is surrounded by unbelievable natural places in the desert, all within a seven-hour driving radius,” he says. “There is so much there between Nevada, Utah and Arizona.”

Eager to explore, Gary and his wife, Deb, and their Windsor relatives jumped in a vehicle and left the Strip’s bright lights behind.

First stop: The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. The national park celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019 – a blink in time, considering the canyon’s ancient rocks. The Colorado River, traversing 446 kilometres within the park, continues to slowly deepen the canyon.

Presented with 576.1 kilometres of established trails through the park that spreads over 4,950 square kilometres, the Canadians opted for the convenience of the shuttle system. “Hopping on and

▼

off the bus, we realized that people of any age can visit the Grand Canyon, even if you have problems walking,” Pam says. “The shuttles brought us to the perfect locations, where you can walk around and look.”

“There was never a line waiting to go onto the shuttle buses, although I imagine in the prime season, those lineups would get fairly long,” Pam notes. Each year, 5.5 million people make the trek to the Grand Canyon.

Intrigued by the dramatic striations of the rock rolling before them as far as the eye could see, the Seneys were captivated by the different moods and changing hues the rock layers took on as the day progressed.

The endless rock is relieved by the rushing waters of the Colorado River and the green of sagebrush scrub and ponderosa and pinyon pines.

Scenic Hermit Road ambles along the South Rim, heading out from Grand Canyon Village for 11 kilometres to Hermits Rest. Favourite stops include

This page, counterclockwise from the left: Drought-tolerant trees and shrubs green the red road near Springdale in Utah. The tunnel cutting through the rock brings visitors to Zion National Park; rain, ice and time have carved Bryce Canyon’s solid rock plateaus into walls, windows and stalwart stone figures called the Hoodoos; a waterfall spurts over the of cream, pink and red Navajo sandstone cliffs in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah. Comprised of mountains, canyons, buttes, mesas, monoliths and slot canyons refreshed by rivers, the park encompasses desert, riparian, woodland and coniferous forest. Its highest peak is at Horse Ranch Mountain, reaching 2,660 metres; unexpected snow falling in May 2019 surprised the Seney family as they explored Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The fenced walkway leads to a hiking trail and viewing point.

Hopi Point, Mohave and Pima Points, presenting panoramas of the Colorado River running 1.6 kilometres below.

Desert View Drive enables visitors to see what lies east and west, with stops at Yaki, Navajo and Desert View. At Lipan Point, the San Francisco Peaks rise in the south and glimpses of the Painted Desert’s beauty can be seen in the distance.

Struck by the sheer “vastness” of the Grand Canyon, Pam scanned the rocks for signs of wildlife. When chipmunks darted across the landscape, the animal lover was in her glory. Gray fox, mule deer, bighorn sheep and rock squirrels also live on the South Rim; Kaibob squirrels, mountain lions and northern goshawks inhabit the North Rim. After a full day gazing over, down into and around the canyon, the Seneys drove to what appeared to be the planet Mars. Only an hour outside of Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire Nevada State Park looks as though the rocky terrain is aflame.

Brilliant red Aztec sandstone is whipped into dramatic formations throughout the park’s 40,000 acres. Some resemble molten lava; others are whipped into huge stone bubbles. Wind and water have carved the sandstone into shapes that inspire the rocks’ names, including Elephant Rock, Arch Rock, Piano Rock and the Beehives.

Humans have also left their mark upon the stone. On the wall of Atlatl Rock are petroglyphs, drawn by ancient artists more than 2,000 years ago. Among the drawings of everyday life are images of the atlatl, a device used by Indigenous People to launch a spear, sending the weapon spinning in the air.

“A beautiful thing about the Valley of Fire is it’s so accessible.

Anyone can drive in, pull up to a particular point and take pictures.

There are also hiking trails,” Bill says.

“Going to the desert in May, it wasn’t as roasting as it would be

later in the summer. We were still fairly warm – around 20 degrees Celsius in the daytime,” Pam notes.

Comfortable in their light jackets, the Canadians crossed into southern Utah. Pam recalls, “I wasn’t thinking that we were going up in elevation. I knew it was going to get cooler, but I certainly did not expect that when we got to Bryce Canyon National Park, there would be snowflakes so unbelievably big that within half an hour, everything would be covered in snow!”

The Seneys’ vehicle crawled along the road. “We couldn’t see more than a couple feet in front of us, it was coming down so hard.

I was crushed because I thought, ‘Oh, no, we’re not going to be able to see Bryce Canyon!’” Pam recalls.

Her fears were affirmed after the two couples checked into their hotel located near the park’s gate and then entered Bryce Canyon.

“The blizzard was so intense, we couldn’t see the canyon walls – even though they are as high as 2,775 metres in the air,” says Pam. After stopping at a couple of points, “we realized it was futile so we got in the car and returned to the hotel, hoping tomorrow would be clear,” Bill says. “Thirty minutes later, my brother brought us back outside. The ice was melting so quickly, the snow was gone in the parking lot.”

The freak storm proved to be a gift. Bill found, “It made for the most spectacular photos, with the rocks and trees highlighted with snow.”

Bryce Canyon is not so much a canyon as a series of naturally hewn amphitheatres stretching over 30 kilometres. Bryce Amphitheatre, at 19 kilometres long, is the biggest. To better experience the craggy, tiered walls, hikers can walk marked and maintained trails in one to six hours. Other visitors may traverse the trails on horseback or snowshoes.

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Standing like sentinels guarding the ancient spirits of Bryce Canyon are the Hoodoos. Rain and ice slowly weather and erode solid plateaus of rock, roughly carving them into walls, windows and ultimately individual stone figures, the Hoodoos.

“It’s wonderfully quiet in Bryce Canyon,” Pam says. The clear air and lack of light pollution add up to a 7.4 magnitude night sky, great for searching the heavens when night falls. Stargazers can use only their naked eyes to see 7,500 stars unveiled for their delight (compared to the relative handful of stars that can be detected in many cities).

Less than 90 minutes away from Bryce Canyon is another Utah public treasure, Zion National Park, located near Springdale. Zion is the much larger park, with mountains, canyons, buttes, mesas, monoliths and slot canyons. Horse Ranch Mountain has the highest peak, reaching 2,660 metres. The park encompasses desert, riparian, woodland and coniferous forest. Park shuttles carry visitors on the scenic drive along the North Fork of the Virgin River.

While some of Zion’s trails are for strong, seasoned hikers only, others are designed to let everyone get down into nature. Cottonwood and box elder trees shade the lower section of the Emerald Pools Trails. A short, easy walk to the lower pool rewards visitors with twin waterfalls springing from the sandstone and monkey flowers, ferns and mosses growing in the mountainside.

Canyon Overlook Trail beckons with the promise of a high view of the lower areas of Zion Canyon and the Great Arch, a geological work in progress being gradually carved by nature into the solid sandstone.

The Weeping Rock trail is mostly paved and wheelchair accessible, navigable for kids to seniors. A continuous flow of water spilling over Weeping Rock’s bowl-shaped sandstone alcove hydrates plants

clinging to the stone, creating hanging gardens. The site offers a view of the Great White Throne, the majestic mountain of white Navajo sandstone standing 720 metres tall.

Hikers determined to get their exercise can push to the top of Angels Landing, peaking at 1,760 metres. A trail was cut into the rock in 1926, making the endeavour achievable but by no means easy. When clouds are hanging low, the rock formation appears to be an island floating in the sky.

“One of the cool things about Zion is when we walked between the rocks, we sunk gently into the warm, reddish sand. It almost felt like we were washing in it,” Pam says. “I also enjoyed watching lizards sunbathing.”

“Each of the state and national parks we visited are different and wonderful in their own right,” Bill observes. “The Grand Canyon was special, however. It brought tears to Pam’s eyes. She and I have seen such beauty and spectacular sights around the world, yet here is this amazing place, so close to home.”

After immersing themselves in Nature’s wonders, the Seneys shook things up by catching a few shows in Las Vegas and driving through the metropolis. Bill reflects, “To go from the stunning desolation of the desert to watching The Mirage’s fake volcano erupting in downtown Vegas, well, you just don’t see stuff like that around Essex County.”

Although Gary has chosen to live in the desert and appreciates the singular beauty of the rocky terrain, he readily admits, “I have to go back home to Essex County just to get a dose of green. The American Southwest is a very different landscape.”

Bill says of his recent trip to the incredible parks: “I feel like we just got a taste. I’d like to go back again for two or three weeks so we would have time to hike some of the trails.

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LOOK WHO’S

COOKING AT HOME

Readily admitting “I love to eat but I’m not someone who was gifted with the joy of cooking or really even any skill with it,” Janice Kaffer, Chief Executive Officer and President of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, says, “if you come to my home for dinner, you’re likely to get a decent glass of wine and a piece of frozen pizza. “What I do enjoy and have become relatively good at is putting together a family friendly breakfast – often with the help of the loves of my life, my shorties, grandkids Allie, Nate and Courtney Prentice. Our fave is a waffle brunch with delish fresh fruit, hot berry compote and Belgian waffles (with some bacon or sausage on the side for the hungry folks).”

Fresh Fruit Salad Ingredients: • Fresh fruit, enough to fill a large serving bowl • ¼ cup of orange juice

Belgian Waffles Ingredients: • 2 eggs • ½ cup of vegetable oil • 2 cups of milk • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract • 2 cups of flour • 4 teaspoons of baking powder • ½ teaspoon of salt • ¼ cup of sugar

Toppings: • Butter • Maple syrup • Whipped cream On the Side: • Sausage and/or bacon

Instructions: Set out three mixing bowls. Bowl 1 should be the largest. In bowl 1, add the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Mix together. In bowl 2, separate the egg whites (placing egg yolks in bowl 3). Beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until you get stiff peaks. (Janice tests readiness by turning the bowl upside down and checking that nothing falls out). In bowl 3, mix the egg yolks, milk, oil and vanilla and stir “a wee bit.” Return to bowl 1. Pour in wet ingredients from bowl 3 (egg yolks, milk, oil and vanilla) and mix well with the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt and sugar). Then fold in the egg whites. Let the waffle mixture stand for a minute or two. Then pour the mixture onto a waffle iron and cook till the waffles are light brown. (Janice sets her iron to level 4).

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, one waffle each. If making a large quantity of waffles for breakfast, keep them warm in an oven set to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve with compote, butter, maple syrup and whipped cream.

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Instructions: Chop into bitesize pieces your favourite and seasonal fruits, such as the melons, strawberries, mandarins, grapes and blueberries Janice used here. Mix together in a serving bowl. Pour orange juice over the fruit and toss together. Keep it cool in the fridge until ready to serve. Just before serving, slice bananas or apple chunks, if you wish.

“Don’t add ahead as they get brown and mushy; I learned this the hard way,” Janice says.

Berry Compote Ingredients: • 3 cups of fresh or frozen fruit • ¼ cup of water • ¼ cup of orange juice • Maple syrup, a little for sweetness Instructions: Into a saucepan, add the fruit, water, orange juice and maple syrup. Heat ingredients over medium heat till they bubble. Then reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens. “It usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, so start the compote when you’re putting on your coffee in the morning,” Janice suggests. Once cooked, either leave the fruit in big chunks or mash it up. Serve the warm compote in small ramekins or mason jars.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOOTERS PHOTOGRAPHY, JOHN LIVIERO

“I serve my waffles with lots of butter, real maple syrup, a bit of whipped cream and berry compote on top. Of course, the carnivores like sausage or bacon on the side.” – Janice Kaffer

JOE PAONESSA CANADA’S STRONGEST FIREFIGHTER STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN PAONESSA

▼

LAST MONTH, Joe Paonessa, a local firefighter, traveled to Santa Monica to compete in the second annual Arnold Schwarzenegger World’s Strongest Firefighter Competition.

A lifelong athlete, Joe first got into bodybuilding in 2017, at age 31.

“I liked the structure of it,” Joe explains. “I was diagnosed with PTSD last year, formally. I’d been getting treatment for it since 2016. It’s been beneficial to me. It’s like therapy. It helps clear your mind. You can just go hard and relieve some stress. There’s been a lot of studies about how it reduces anxiety. It’s so important.”

Joe first started lifting weights when he was around 12 or 13. However, bodybuilding involves a much more intense commitment. Especially when it comes to nutrition.

“Diet is 85% of bodybuilding,” Joe states. “Following that meal plan is what gets you lean, gets you ready for that show. You have to put the work in at the gym, but if you’re not eating properly or eating the wrong foods, then it’s all for nothing. You’re going to be healthy, you’re going to be in shape, but unless you follow that structure and that diet plan, you’re not going to get to where you want to be.”

Joe’s meal plan involved an intake of about 3000 calories a day, divided over the course of six meals, including a gram of protein for every pound of weight. And, when he’s bulking, that number can go up.

“It’s hard eating that much, at first,” Joe explains. “Once your metabolism resets and your body starts burning that many calories, you’re able to take it in. But when I started, I remember dry heaving in the morning trying to get all those cups of egg whites and cups of oatmeal down. It’s a job trying to eat that much. If you’re eating takeout food, it’s easy to get a lot of calories. But trying to get that many calories while eating healthy?

That’s a mass quantity.”

What’s more, bodybuilding also involves much longer hours at the gym. And, with kids and a demanding career, Joe is sometimes forced to work out three times a day.

Clockwise from left: Joe Paonessa competing in the deadlifting event. Photo by Erin Paonessa; Joe Paonessa and his wife, Erin, pose with Arnold Schwarzenegger; The coin Joe Paonessa received for competing the event; Joe wowing the judges at the log press event. Photo by Erin Paonessa; Joe Manganiello and his wife Sofia Vergara; Other competitors at the Arnold Schwarzenegger World’s Strongest Firefighter Competition.

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“Right now, my workouts are 90 minutes to 100 minutes of weight lighting, with 20 to 30 minutes of cardio,” Joe states. “But, near the end of a cut, my workouts can be anywhere from three hours to three-and-ahalf hours. I typically get up before the kids and try to knock out some cardio, or get my weights in while they’re at school, or get another hour in after they go to sleep.”

When asked what the hardest part of bodybuilding was, Joe returns to the diet.

“Just the temptation of eating all those delicious foods,” Joe states. “You really have to grapple with those cravings. But, I’ve been doing it for so many years now. You know you have to cut. You know what the end result is. And you’re able to just focus.

You want to stay on track with your food. If you mismanage your nutrition, it affects your performance.”

Joe has competed in a variety of bodybuilding shows over the years. However, back in December, a new opportunity presented itself.

While browsing Instagram one night, Joe happened across a video advertising Arnold Schwarzenegger’s World’s Strongest Firefighter competition. In the video, the iconic Austrian sent out an open call for all firefighters everywhere to apply.

On a whim, Joe tossed his hat into the ring.

“I thought it was a long shot,” Joe states.

“But, they kept getting back to me. I went through all their steps. Then they let me know that they’d selected me to go to the event.”

However, this presented a challenge for Joe. The event was only five weeks away.

“I was in my off-season mode,” Joe explains. “I was planning on doing Nationals this year, but I hadn’t started my prep. I wasn’t training that intensely. So, as soon as they told me I was in, I had to rush back to the gym.”

A strongman competition is different than a typical bodybuilding show. Since the event was purely strength-focused, Joe endeavored to put on as much mass as possible.

“I gained 20 pounds in five weeks,” Joe recalls. “I was getting McDonalds a couple times a day. Eating chocolate bars at night.

Just getting down as many calories as I could. I was eating about 5000 calories a day. The workouts were so draining. I’ve never trained like this before.”

The event took place on January 18th, at the Santa Monica Pier in California.

Matt Iseman from American Ninja Warrior

hosted the event. Numerous other celebrities were in attendance, including Sofia Vergara and her husband Joe Manganiello.

As well, Joe and the other firefighters were invited to spend time at Arnold Schwarzenegger’s mansion prior to the event.

“Arnold was awesome,” Joe states. “Down to earth. Above and beyond my expectations. Going into the event, I thought we’d get a handshake and a quick photo-op.

They surprised us when they said we’d all be going to his home. We were allowed to bring our wives or girlfriends. So, we met him. He had a big cigar in his mouth. He served us food. He had his bar open. There were cigars everywhere. Me and my wife ended up talking to him, Matt Iseman and Ralf Moeller in his kitchen for about an hour. They told us stories about their charity auctions.”

All the money that was raised by the event was sent towards the Ventura County Fire Department Widows, Orphans and Assistance Fund, the Santa Monica Fire Department and the California Fire Foundation’s Firefighters Benevolent Fund.

Some money was even sent to help the Australian wildfire.

The event also drew a considerable crowd. Tickets were sold out after only a couple days. However, rather than being intimidating, Joe found the sizable audience encouraging.

“They’d fire you up, actually,” Joe laughs.

“Everything I lifted that day was better than anything I’d done in training. The announcer would get the crowd to cheer you on. It gets your adrenaline firing.”

Joe placed third in the competition.

“I was happy just to get out there and have that weekend experience,” Joe explains. “Being able to place in the event at all was awesome. It was just a fun overall experience. Watching the pros compete, seeing what they can lift, what they can do. It was surreal to be a part of that. Just hanging out backstage with all the athletes and the celebrities. At one point I was lying down on the physio table and Arnold Schwarzenegger came up and started talking my ear off about the event.”

And, the event has inspired Joe to leap back into his training with renewed vigor.

“This was my first time trying to do it all,” Joe states. “It turned out well. Hopefully I can go back next year to represent Canada.

It’d be cool to have a whole year of training in to see what I can do. And all the proceeds are going back to firefighters.” WLM

WLMONLINE

POWERHOUSE VOCALS Krisalyn Bell’s Girl Pow-R Nominated For Children’s Album of the Year STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO

In his book Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell argued that it takes 10,000 hours of dedicated practice to master any craft.

Krisalyn Bellavance, however, the 14 year old St. Joseph’s Catholic High School student nominated for a Juno Award, may have turned that theory on its head.

Krisalyn (who performs under the stage name Krisalyn Bell) is one of Windsor’s youngest, most powerful voices. She first began singing near Cedar Point, when she was 8 years old. “I went to this place called Castaway Bay,” Krisalyn explains. “It was a kid’s karaoke night. I sang ‘Let It Go’ from Frozen.

Everyone said, ‘Oh my God, you’re amazing!’ I had no idea I could sing.”

Read Krisalyn’s complete story at windsorlife.com.

TURKI AYASH Teenager Saves Father’s Life STORY/PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN

Many of us remember larking our way through our high school CPR lessons.

The exercise mats. The pale, featureless training dummies that reminded us of amputated mannequins. Our earnest, beleaguered physical education teacher.

Many of us treated the assignment as one big joke. ‘And why shouldn’t we?’ we told ourselves. We’ll never need this information.

We’ll never have to save someone’s life.

However, one student at Catholic Central High School did need this information. His name is Turki Ayash, a 17-year-old high school student from Syria.

Read Turki’s life saving story at windsorlife.com.

Horton’s. WFCU Centre, 8787 McHugh St., Windsor. 2 to 3:30 pm. 519-974-7979.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Saturday, 28

MARCH

Thursday, 26

Wednesday, 25

LADIES NIGHT CLOSET CLEAR OUT

JOURNEYS AT AMHERSTBURG FREEDOM MUSEUM

Till Sunday, April 19. Telling the story of Black enslavement and the Underground Railroad to freedom, the Journeys art exhibit features original works by the Artists of Colour. Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 277 King St., Amherstburg. Guided tours from noon to 5 pm, Tues. through Fri.; 1 to 5 pm, Sat. and Sun. $7.50 per adult; $6.50 per student or senior; $30 per family.

519-736-5433. amherstburgfreedom.org.

SAVOUR THE SEA GALA FOR HOSPICE

Raising funds for Charlotte’s Freedom Farm, Ladies Night Closet Clear Out is an opportunity for women to shop for lightly used brand name clothing. Beverages and charcuterie boards. Tarot readings by Real Tarot With Manz. Karma Wine Bar, 12205 Riverside Dr. E., Tecumseh. 6 to 9 pm. Free entry. 226-348-8185. facebook.com/karmatecumseh.

Friday, 27 TIM HORTON’S FREE SWIM DAY

Everyone can swim for free, courtesy of Tim Y o u r

A land and sea feast is being served at the 36th Annual Savour The Sea Gala “In Central Park,” in support of the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County. Appetizer bar sponsored by Koolini. Dancing and live entertainment by Fantasia and Eclipse. Giovanni Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Ave., Windsor. 6 pm. $100 per guest.

519-251-2594. TheHospice.ca.

Get a complete up-to-date listing of Community Events at windsorlife.com. If you wish to have your non-profit event listed apply with details to info@windsorlife.com.

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SYLVIO LESPERANCE

GRANT HIGGINBOTTOM

SYLES MECHANICAL

QUALITY COMFORT SERVICES YOU CAN DEPEND ON FOR OVER 50 YEARS Syles Mechanical has been providing high-quality home comfort services to Windsor and Essex County residents and business owners.

With a knowledgeable and experienced staff of technicians, Syles can install, service and repair furnaces, air conditioning units, boilers and water heaters from all the leading manufacturers in the industry.

Locally owned and operated by Sylvio Lesperance and Grant Higginbottom, Tecumseh-based Syles is partnered with Enercare, one of Canada’s largest home and commercial services companies, to provide clients across the region with access to unmatched customer service. Enercare is a leading provider of rental water heaters, home water treatment solutions, rental furnaces and air conditioners, HVAC protection plans and plumbing services.

A fleet of service vehicles means that customers can expect timely, prompt service for their home comfort needs.

“Increasingly we hear from our customers how much they value a local provider that they can count on,” says Higginbottom. “We are proud to offer same day service and offer a variety of indoor air quality and maintenance services for residential and commercial properties as well as plumbing and electrical services.”

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The rental of hot water heaters has become extremely popular at Syles. For a limited time, customers can rent any gas or tankless water tank and get a $300 Mastercard® Debit Card and 3 months free rental or rent any electric water tank and get a $100 Mastercard® Debit Card and 3 months free rental!

Renting is a hassle free, convenient option that includes all parts and service for homeowners. Syles Mechanical Services is proud to provide service 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year for all heating, cooling, hot water, electrical and plumbing emergencies. Our trained, professional and expert technicians are on call at all hours of the day and night.

“Customers love that when they are experiencing an issue, they can pick up the phone and speak to someone local.”

Syles makes the process easy. Simply contact them to change from your current provider and they will take care of the rest. A new heater is installed along with an upgrade to PVC piping.

Syles Mechanical specializes in replacing your homes existing HVAC systems. Their technicians are fully trained to handle repairs on products from major industry leaders including Armstrong, Honeywell, Vanee, RUUD, Weil McClain and Life Breath, to name a few.

Working with leading manufacturers, Syles can offer their customers high-efficiency systems which not only maintain temperatures at a comfortable level but also reduce energy costs. In addition to providing customized HVAC solutions, Syles technicians’ service and maintain all major brands and models of central air conditioning units.

Flooding, water and sewer back-up may be a big issue for homeowners this spring, especially for those living near or on the water. Let Syles do a thorough analysis of your current systems to help mitigate damages. “Take advantage of current subsidies, while they are still available. We have lots of options available to mitigate issues before they happen”.

What drives & inspires the team at Syles to be the best it can be? “We love the challenge of making customers happy they chose Syles!” Helping customers find the best solutions to their HVAC, electrical and plumbing needs has been keeping Syles motivated for over 50 Years!

For all your HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical needs, Syles Mechanical Services Ltd. is just a phone call away. For a free estimate call 519-979-2090. You can also visit, www.syles.ca for more information.

SYLES HAS THE PERFECT MATCH FOR ALL YOUR HOME SERVICES HEATING – COOLING ELECTRICAL PLUMBING – WATER HEATER FIREPLACES

An Authorized

Contractor

519-979-2090 | WWW.SYLES.CA

2020 MUSTANG SHELBY GT500

YOUR MUSTANG HEADQUARTERS

Tecumseh Rd. East @ Jefferson, Windsor | 519-948-7800 | rosecityford.com