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ISSUE 174

EXTENDING THE REACH OF CARE

CMHA WINDSORESSEX MARKS 55 YEARS OF STEPPING OUT TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY.

LIFESTYLE | CULTURE | PEOPLE | TRENDS Page b

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PAUL ST-PIERRE....................................................... Publisher BREANNE MCGINTY...........Managing Editor, Director of Sales MARNIE ROBILLARD...............................................Art Director SABINE MAIN .............................................. Creative Director MACKENZIE COJOCAR.............................Publication Assistant GREG EDWARDS.......................................... Graphic Designer MEL MONCZAK ..................................Senior Account Manager NICKI BESTED.....................................Sales Account Manager CONTRIBUTORS JESSE ZITER................................................................. Writer DEVAN MIGHTON.......................................................... Writer LAYAN BARAKAT.......................................................... Writer JEN BRIGNALL-STRONG................................................ Writer TERI GYEMI................................................................... Writer MONA ELKADRI................................................. Stylist/Writer HEIKE DELMORE................................................ Photographer TREVOR BOOTH................................................. Photographer ADRIANA LIPARI................................................ Photographer ANTHONY SHEARDOWN.................................... Photographer NICKI BESTED.................................................... Photographer ANNA STANLEY....................................................Copy Editor

ISSUE 174

THE DRIVE LIFESTYLE | CULTURE | PEOPLE | TRENDS

On the Cover: Nicole Sbrocca of CMHA Windsor-Essex Written by: Devan Mighton Cover photo by: Heike Delmore

EXTENDING THE REACH OF CARE

CMHA WINDSORESSEX MARKS 55 YEARS OF STEPPING OUT TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY.

ISSUE 174

LIFESTYLE | CULTURE | PEOPLE | TRENDS Page b

Follow and like us: X @thedrivemag Instagram @thedrivemag Facebook @thedrivemag The Drive magazine is delivered to 40,000 select homes and businesses throughout Windsor-Essex exclusively through Canada Post. Mail subscriptions available on line at thedrivemagazine.com/signup or by emailing info@thedrivemagazine.com CANADA POST Delivery agreement no. 43497602. Printed in Canada. Owned and operated by the Landscape Effects Group of Companies. 1125 County Road #42 RR#1, Belle River ON, N0R1A0 All advertisement content to appear are subject to approval of the publisher and the publication assumes no responsibility for content included. We do not necessarily share the opinion or views of such advertising and assume no liability of this content or messaging.

CONTENTS 12 ISSUE 174

PORTRAIT Celebrating 55 years of impact, CMHA WindsorEssex is breaking barriers and redefining community care, with programs and services that reach far beyond mental health

DRIVE RECIPE 8O h So Mona brings a little fall charm to the table with a pumpkin-shaped baked brie that's almost too pretty to eat DRIVE THRU 26 Move over, pumpkin spice! From creative twists on fall classics to unexpected new favourites, five local sips are giving Windsor-Essex something to cozy up to DRIVE BUSINESS 32 The search for Windsor’s Next Top Business is on, with six local entrepreneurs competing for the chance to take their businesses to new heights

18 DRIVE COMMUNITY Kingsville’s Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary has 120 years of remarkable history and new experiences waiting to be rediscovered THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

DRIVE COMMUNITY 36 On a Mission for the Mission is proving there’s more to motorcycle culture than meets the eye, turning a love of riding into a fight against local hunger DRIVE MIND 40 T eri Gyemi explores the beauty of new beginnings and how closing one chapter can open the door to something greater DRIVE EVENTS CALENDAR 42 S tay in the loop with local events in each issue and on our website thedrivemagazine.com 5

A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER As the season changes and things start to slow down heading into the holidays, it’s a good time to take stock of what makes this region such a great place to live and do business, and this issue does exactly that. Our cover story celebrates CMHA’s emerald year; yes, you read that right, CMHA is turning 55. We’re also thrilled to introduce you to the six finalists of our Windsor’s Next Top Business competition. Every page is full of the people, organizations and experiences that make Windsor-Essex so special. In our Seasonal Sips feature, Jen Brignall-Strong takes us on a tour of YQG’s coziest fall drinks. From new cafés to our tried-andtrue favourites, discover the drinks that will keep you warm (and caffeinated) all season long. Don’t forget to follow us at @TheDriveMag for behind-the-scenes footage, digital features and so much more. P.S. Save the date, our next issue features our highly anticipated Holiday Gift Guide. Thank you, Paul St. Pierre Publisher 6

DRIVE RECIPE

DRIVE RECIPE PORTRAIT

A LITTLE TASTE OF

fall

This pumpkin-shaped baked brie is one of the easiest, most customizable appetizers you’ll ever make! It comes together in minutes and delivers a stunning centrepiece without needing a long grocery list. Just wrap your brie in puff pastry and don’t worry about perfection! The rustic look only adds to the cozy fall charm. Surround it with whatever you have in your pantry, nuts, crackers, cured meats, olives, caramels, or candy corn, and you’re done! Tip * When assembling your board, start with the larger items like the pumpkin brie, then add smaller items like crackers, breads, and meats. Finally, finish off with small items to fill in spaces like fresh fruits, chocolates, nuts, and berries. INGREDIENTS • 2 x 200g brie cheese • 1 roll of puff pastry, cut in half • kitchen twine • 1 egg • 1 tbsp milk DIRECTIONS 1. R emove one roll of puff pastry from the freezer and let it sit for 2 hours, until it has defrosted. 2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. 3. O nce the puff pastry has defrosted, cut it in half widthwise and place a circle of brie in the center. At this stage, you could also add fig jam or honey on top of the brie to add sweet notes. 4. Fold the edges of the puff pastry around the brie to completely close it. Then, using twine, wrap the brie as if you were wrapping ribbon around a package. This will form your pumpkin shape. Be careful to not wrap the string too tightly to prevent it from cutting into the pastry. 5. In a bowl, beat together the egg and milk, then brush the egg wash over the top and sides of the puff pastry. 6. Bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. 7. O nce it is finished, garnish the pumpkin with a cinnamon stick for the stem, or, like we did, with oregano flowers and sage.

Mona Elkadri is not just a food writer, but also a skilled recipe developer, former restaurateur, and culinary teacher. She possesses a keen appreciation for that elusive secret ingredient that invariably elevates each dish to perfection.

YOUR GIFT. THEIR RECOVERY. RIGHT HERE AT HOME. Windsor-Essex faces a rising volume of lung cancer cases. To keep our patients close to their families, Windsor Regional Hospital must expand our thoracic surgery program today.

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Keep Life-Saving Surgery Local. Your gift to Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation will fund the second Da Vinci robot, bring world-class specialists to our region and protect local families.

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MORE THAN MENTAL HEALTH CMHA Windsor-Essex celebrates 55 years of helping build a healthier, stronger community By Devan Mighton Photos by Heike Delmore & The Drive Magazine

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The fact that they can go to the hub and sit with counsellors and talk about the issues that they might have, it really is allowing us to take the stigma away from mental health.

For over half a century, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Windsor-Essex County Branch (CMHA-WECB) has been growing alongside the community it serves, through good times and bad, giving us the support we need to live our best lives. What began in 1971 as a small, local mental health clinic has grown with the region to become one of the community’s most important healthcare providers, all while offering a broad range of services that reach much further than counselling and mental health support. CMHA-WECB currently offers 44 programs, employs nearly 250 full-time, parttime, and casual staff members, and works alongside healthcare providers, community partners, and its volunteers and donors to support the people of Windsor-Essex. Alongside primary care and youth wellness, CMHA-WECB also helps with housing, bereavement, specialized psychiatric services and community education, to name a few. CMHA-WECB’s work reflects a holistic understanding of health that runs deeper than any single diagnosis. “Where the agency started 55 years ago and the work we do today goes far beyond what people may realize,” explains CMHAWECB CEO Nicole Sbrocca. “We started as a small community-focused mental health agency, and over 55 years, we’ve very much grown with the community.” Celebrating their Emerald Anniversary, CMHA-WECB turned 55 years old this year. A remarkable milestone that reflects their commitment to the community and work in the region. While mental health has always been a core foundation of CMHA-WECB’s mission,

THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

its expanding role in the community reflects a broader commitment to helping people access the care, resources, and connections they need at different stages of their lives. CARING FOR THE WHOLE PERSON A great example of their ‘whole person’ approach is the CMHA Health Centre, which provides primary care through an interprofessional team that includes physicians, nurse practitioners, chiropractors, social workers and other healthcare professionals. The Health Centre serves people who are in need of a primary care provider and offers services that include health promotion, nutritional support, and other healthcare options. “We often say there is no health without mental health, and no mental health without physical health,” says Sbrocca. “You can’t care for one without considering the whole person.” It’s a philosophy that shapes CMHA-WECB’s approach to care, recognizing that mental and physical health are interconnected and that people deserve access to both. Put into practice—if someone is experiencing housing instability, they may face additional barriers to accessing medical care or maintaining consistent treatment. Likewise, someone managing a significant mental health condition may require support that extends beyond counselling alone. By offering a variety of services and collaborating with other providers, CMHAWECB works to connect people with care that reflects their greater needs. CMHA-WECB also provides education and training, including Mental Health First Aid and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST). These programs help give 13

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(L) Kim Willis, Director Communications & Mental Health Promotion and Nicole Sbrocca, CEO, CMHA-WECB

people the knowledge and skills to recognize when someone might need support. Other CMHA-WECB initiatives focus on mental health awareness in schools, workplaces, and the broader community, including outreach to temporary foreign agricultural workers. These efforts allow CMHA-WECB to support people in different settings, whether they are seeking care for themselves or learning how to help someone else.

can access a wide range of supports. Through community partnerships, the Hub brings together services that include counselling, peer support, addiction support, primary care, and recreational programming. The focus is to make it easier for young people to find appropriate assistance in a friendly environment, with no wait times and without having to scramble to find disconnected services on their own.

For Ron and Kathy Oglan, the importance of community support is something they understand personally. After their 19-year-old son, Jackson, passed away in 2018, Ron contacted CMHA-WECB on the recommendation of a friend who had experienced a similar loss. CMHA-WECB arranged individual counselling for members of the family, and Ron and Kathy also joined their bereavement program.

GIVING SUPPORT WHERE IT’S NEEDED

Over the past three years, CMHA reports that more than 1,200 unique young people had accessed services through the Hub, accounting for more than 6,000 service visits. A major factor in keeping this wonderful service going is community fundraising. For example, the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign has raised over $100,000 for the Hub and its services.

As their relationship with CMHAWECB evolved, the couple decided to give back and became involved in fundraising for the Youth Wellness Hub. Jackson Oglan Memorial Golf Classic has been a striking success. A five-year project that ended this year, that has raised well over $275,000.

The youth are our future, and their wellness is our community’s lifeblood. CMHAWECB has gone above and beyond to embrace and support the future of the community through our youth. The Youth Wellness Hub offers a youthfocused setting where people 12-25 years old 14

The Oglan’s experience exemplifies how the services of the CMHA can support fam-

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ilies through difficult periods while also cre“A lot of that involves an understanding ating opportunities for community members of the context of the individual patient and to help others. what mental health challenges they may According to Ron, making mental health have encountered in the past and recogresources accessible and encouraging open nizing that, acknowledging it, validating it, conversations are essential. “The fact that and then working towards solutions with the they can go to the Hub and sit with coun- patients,” explains Bondy. sellors and talk about the issues that they might have, it really is allowing us to take the stigma away from mental health,” says Oglan. “And so the more we communicate, the more we have these fundraisers, the more we talk about it, the less stigma will be out there.”

Bondy also adds that talking openly about mental health helps people understand their experiences, and to also recognize that they are not alone and that there are resources that can help. She credits CMHA-WECB’s leadership and staff with

playing an important role in developing the partnership, and proof of the importance of organizations working together to meet community needs. WHEN COLLABORATION CHANGES CARE Dr. Corina Velehorschi, chief of the Department of Psychiatry at Windsor Regional Hospital, states that the relationship between the hospital and the CMHA has grown considerably under Sbrocca’s leadership.

HEALTHCARE WITHOUT BARRIERS Providing healthcare to Windsor’s shelters can be incredibly challenging. However, a partnership between CMHA-WECB, Windsor Shelter Health Associates (WSHA), Windsor Regional Hospital, and the City of Windsor is bringing primary care and mental health services to people who are experiencing homelessness and home insecurity. Dr. Jennifer Bondy, the medical director of WSHA, describes their relationship with CMHA-WECB as a close and collaborative one. CMHA-WECB provides much of the administrative and clinical support required to operate the clinics, including scheduling, hiring, staff training, and continuing education. The partners communicate regularly to ensure services run smoothly and patients receive appropriate care.

A youth completes homework in a Study Pod at the Windsor Essex Youth Wellness Hub.

“Mental health diagnoses know no bounds,” says Bondy. “They can affect anyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background or circumstances. There are a tremendous number of resources available through CMHA-WECB, including individual counselling, group programs, and access to primary health care.” There are a wide variety of needs that the WSHA may attend to, as some patients are living with psychiatric conditions, substance-use disorders, or other complex needs. Bringing medical, nursing, and socialwork expertise into the shelters, the team can provide care and help people connect with further support. THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

Staff at the Windsor-Essex Youth Wellness Hub

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“In a matter of weeks to a few months, we accomplished what had eluded us for over a decade,” states Velehorschi. “Whatever we’ve had and whatever they’ve had, we’re able to put together regardless of the boundaries of the organizations.” Over the last two years, the two organizations have worked together to establish several outpatient services intended to address our community’s gaps in psychiatric care. Seeing the needs of the local community, WRH and CMHA-WECB collaborated to create clinics to help people with community treatment orders following discharge, another for psychiatric follow-up for patients with complex needs, and one for people living with borderline personality disorder in need of consistent community-based treatment. Velehorschi says these initiatives became possible by bringing together resources and expertise from both organizations. “I can say with a lot of enthusiasm that when Nicole came on in her position, she hit the ground running and she hasn’t stopped,” praises Velehorschi. “Rather than being constrained by organizational boundaries, this is an organization that has recognized how important collaboration, aligning resources,

building partnerships grounded in mutual tunity to bring people together through physical activity and conversation. respect and shared responsibility.” Another fascinating partnership CMHAWECB is partaking in is with The Drive Magazine. The project, Faces of WindsorEssex, is a photo-book project inspired by the well-received Humans of New York book series by author and photographer Brandon Stanton. Photographers have been capturing candid portraits of people throughout Windsor and Essex County, accompanied by responses to questions about their lives and experiences. The project aims to present BUILDING A HEALTHIER WINDSOR-ESSEX people authentically and encourage readers CMHA-WECB continues to encourage to look beyond assumptions about others. “Mental health doesn’t have a face,” says conversations about health and well-being through community initiatives. Combating CMHA director of communications Kim mental health stigma remains a key prior- Willis. “It’s all of us.” ity in their ongoing efforts. Their annual The project took root from an idea by Push-Up Challenge, a national CMHA ini- a frontline staff member who wanted to tiative, encourages participants to get active, bring a similar concept to Windsor-Essex. raise funds, and spread the word about The book is an effort to encourage undermental health. According to the organiza- standing, challenge stereotypes, and remind tion, local participation has generated more people that everyone has a story worth than $40,000 annually in each of the last hearing. two years. Community awareness is an important complement to providing services. The more Walking Wednesdays, in partnership people understand mental health and know with the City of Windsor during Mental where to find support, the easier it becomes Health Month in May, offers another opporFor patients, these partnerships help establish connections to appropriate services after leaving the hospital, particularly when ongoing psychiatric care is needed. Velehorschi, who has worked in the community for more than two decades, says the progress demonstrates what can happen when organizations come together with a shared focus.

There is no health without mental health, and no mental health without physical health.

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Artwork completed by youth at the Windsor-Essex Youth Wellness Hub

serves. CMHA-WECB’s work spans different ages, circumstances, and health needs, and remains committed to helping people find the support that is right for them. For Sbrocca, that commitment is made possible by the people behind the work. She speaks with pride about the team at CMHAWECB, whose dedication, compassion, and expertise bring the organization’s mission to life every day. Their work, alongside the organization’s many community partners, is what allows CMHA-WECB to keep evolving, responding to emerging needs, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of people across Windsor-Essex. Staff from CMHA-WECB

to start conversations and seek assistance when needed. LOOKING AHEAD As Windsor-Essex continues to grow and evolve, CMHA-WECB prepares for the needs that lie ahead. Sbrocca points to the strength of the local healthcare network and the importance of providers working together as the region faces an aging population and increasing demand on services.

“We are here to care for this community, in all its complexity and possibility,” states to manage. To meet these needs, the organi- Sbrocca. “And there’s no wrong door when zation is focused on expanding its capacity to it comes to CMHA-WECB.” reach more people and respond to emerging With 55 years of impact behind it, community priorities. This will require not CMHA Windsor-Essex is building momenonly continued investment in programs and tum for the future—connecting people to services, but also fundraising to secure the the care they need, forging stronger partnerphysical space necessary to accommodate ships, and championing a community where future demand. Community support and mental health is recognized as an essential philanthropic partnerships will be essential part of overall health. Looking ahead, the to creating welcoming, accessible environ- vision is bigger than expanding services—it’s ments where CMHA-WECB can deliver vital about transforming lives, breaking down mental health and wellness services to more barriers, and creating a future where no one people across Windsor-Essex. must face a mental health challenge alone,

Prevention and early intervention remain key priorities for CMHA-WECB, with the goal of helping people access the right supHowever, their goals remain rooted in the and everyone has the opportunity to feel port before challenges become more difficult organization’s relationship with the people it supported, find hope, and thrive. THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

DRIVE NATURE

BANDED TOGETHER Rediscovering the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary, 120 years after the first geese landed By Layan Barakat Photos by Nicki Bested

Tucked away on a quiet road in Kingsville, Ontario, sits a sanctuary that has lived in the memories of the local community for generations. “I think I went there on a field trip once” is the usual response when you mention the name Jack Miner, but for many, that name means so much more. Spread across 450 acres, the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary is one of North America’s oldest continuously operating private bird sanctuaries, and it was once rated the second greatest tourist attraction in Canada, behind only Niagara Falls. The DRIVE Magazine team recently took a “field trip” of our own to rediscover the historic site, and from the moment we stepped off the bus, we were giddy kids again. Mel excitedly asked about Ty Cobb Field, built for one of Jack Miner’s best friends, Baseball Hall of Famer Ty Cobb. We oohed and aahed over the story of a black duck named Katie (ask about her next time you’re there), and the whole team got to take part in bird banding and release the ducks back into the wild. The sanctuary from our childhood memories still knows how to take us back. It started with a pond. In 1904, Jack Miner dug one on his family’s farm and waited. He was a former market hunter and renowned hunting guide with only a few months of formal schooling. It took four years before the first eleven Canada geese trusted the water enough to land. In time, the Sanctuary was drawing migrating birds by the tens of thousands, proof that a refuge 18

could attract and sustain waterfowl in great those programs have welcomed an average numbers. of more than 2,000 students annually. Best Miner wanted to know where his birds of all, the team has opened the curriculum went when they left, so he started putting up to learners of all ages, and virtual tours bands on their legs. His first ducks had are on the way so people can take part names, like Polly, Delilah and Susan, and from the comfort of their own homes. Out when they came back to his pond the next in Kennedy Woods, the Storyboard Trail season, he had his answer. Before long he stretches a children’s book along the path, was stamping scripture onto the bands, one sign at a time. Written by Janne Peters sending small messages across the continent of Caldwell First Nation, it follows Rainey on the legs of geese. His banding records and Mkinaak on a “Wellness Walk” as helped shape the first international treaty they share traditional knowledge and a few to protect migratory birds. In 1943, King Anishinaabemowin words along the way. George VI awarded him the Order of the This spring, the Sanctuary launched British Empire for “the greatest achievement Jack Miner Experiences, its most immerin conservation in the British Empire.” He sive offering yet. The half-day experience was so sought after as a speaker that more includes a tour of the historic buildings, than 4,000 scheduled engagements had to a live bird banding demonstration, the be cancelled after his death in 1944. “At one chance to build your own bird band, and point, he was more famous than the Prime lunch inside Jack Miner’s home. The full-day Minister of Canada,” says Matt Olewski, the package adds sunrise access to the pond-side Sanctuary’s Executive Director. photography blind, conservation workshops, The banding never stopped. Today, The and dinner at The Banded Goose Brewery Jack Miner Migratory Bird Foundation runs & Taproom. For anyone who isn’t ready to the only privately operated licensed migra- leave, the Sanctuary’s lodge, Jack’s Landing, tory waterfowl banding program in the is available for overnight stays. Commonwealth. And every year on the third weekend of What has changed is how the Sanctuary October, the Sanctuary hosts its Migration opens itself up to the public. The Jack Festival, a celebration of the season this Miner Learning Centre opened in 2023, place was built for. a hands-on space where kids weave nests, If your memory of Jack Miners ends with build shelters and make animal tracks while a field trip, it might be time to go back. And learning about migration and ecosystems. Curriculum-based field trips were launched if you didn’t know it was here at all, now’s the same year, and in-school programs your chance to experience a place that stays followed in 2024. Over the past three years, ingrained in our memories.

DRIVE NATURE

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DRIVE PROFILE

BUILDING LEGACIES FRANK ABBRUZZESE’S NEXT CHAPTER A Windsor-Essex business builder steps into the next phase of his professional journey as The Networking Alchemist: author, speaker, and connector of people By Jesse Ziter Photos by Adriana Lipari.

DRIVE PROFILE

Frank Abbruzzese wants to challenge you. “I want to ask the tough questions about your ideas,” asserts the principal of AlphaKOR, Windsor-Essex’s leading information technology (IT) services company. “I want you to think. I want to empower and invigorate you. But the one thing I don’t want to do is discourage you.”

I genuinely want to help people. I want to challenge myself, learn, and grow to stay relevant and current.

One of three finalists for this year’s prestigious Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce Visionary Founder Award, Abbruzzese has spent 38 years in IT and the business community, during which time he’s seen the tech sector grow from a niche corner of the economy to the dominant force in contemporary culture. I want to challenge myself, learn, and grow For 30 years, Abbruzzese served as presi- to stay relevant and current." dent of AlphaKOR, growing the business Abbruzzese is speaking in the spacious together with his partners from a humble office of the executive LaSalle home he startup to a successful network of “Alpha- shares with his wife Carmela. The couple KORians” serving clients from coast enjoy spending time with their two to coast. On July 1, Abbruzzese retired wonderful daughters, Haley and Syd, and the president title, but not the work. As their respective fiancé and husband Brandon principal and co-owner alongside partners and Michael. Ali and Mazen Jaber, Liqaa Alshimari, and “Alchemy was the old idea of turning Shawn O’Rourke, he continues to build key ordinary metal into gold; networking works client and community relationships. the same way,” he stresses. “Connections As part of his sales, marketing, and alone don’t build a legacy. Relationships do. public relations portfolio at AlphaKOR, A handshake at an event is ordinary. The Abbruzzese regularly contributed to televi- follow-up call, the introduction you make sion, radio, and print media and addressed for someone else, the coffee months later— government, effectively serving as the public that’s where it becomes valuable.” face of the company. Moreover, has been Abbruzzese grew up on a modest family volunteering since 1997 by sitting on boards farm in Leamington, his father having and cofounding community nonprofits— immigrated from Italy in the early 1950s, most notably WEtech Alliance and Build arrived on Canadian shores as a 17-year-old, a Dream. and found work the next day. “I worked As many of his contemporaries ease since I was five years old,” says Abbruzzese, into retirement, Abbruzzese has taken who later studied business at the University up public speaking and authorship and of Windsor. “That’s where the work ethic maintained his commitment to profes- comes from.” sional networking, positioning himself as a A keynote speaker at the Windsor Essex subject matter expert in entrepreneurship Chamber of Commerce Small Business uniquely positioned to share the lessons of Summit in October 2025, Abbruzzese hopes 38 years in the business community. One to encourage a similar drive in audiences wonders: With all his evident success, why through his signature lecture, “Building keep showing up? Legacies: Leading with Clarity in a World “I was given so much by those who cared to take the time,” reasons Abbruzzese. “Telling my story is how I pay it forward to the next entrepreneur to build their own legacy. I genuinely want to help people. THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

Abbruzzese hopes to reach even wider audiences through Building Legacies, a four-volume series of books. Targeted at young professionals and entrepreneurs at all stages of their careers, Building Legacies compiles more than 500 weekly topical blog posts effectively spanning the 2010s. Originally published online, the newly sequenced and polished writings are now available via Amazon as physical books or eBooks. Abbruzzese published the first volume, Leadership, Decision Making, and Customer Service in May 2025. Volume II: Business Networking, Communications, and Technology launched this September with a reading at Oxley Estate Golf Course. Abbruzzese expects both the third and fourth books to drop in 2027. “It’s not a how-to guide,” cautions Abbruzzese. “I wrote the book I needed. The reader reads the book they need.” Wednesday Wisdom, Abbruzzese’s monthly networking social, was inaugurated on the first Wednesday in 2021 as a weekly virtual meeting to help business leaders stay connected and address challenges amidst COVID-19 lockdowns. By the end of the year, it transitioned to its current in-person format, which now routinely attracts upwards of 100 participants to area dining establishments. Wednesday Wisdom community events have already expanded to other Canadian cities: a Vancouver Island branch held its first event in October. “It’s organic,” promises Abbruzzese, who for ten years ran a networking group called the WindsorEssex Circle with Joe Di Giorgio. “There’s no name tag; there’s no agenda.” According to Abbruzzese, young professionals have access to a tremendous wealth of resources for networking and skills development, but many do not know where to start. “A lot of us are alone,” he explains. “We don’t seek help.”

Reaching out into the entrepreneurship community for guidance is daunting. Asking for help takes courage. So, one imagines, of Overload.” The well-received talk helps does standing in front of a room. Abbruzzese nods, his gaze tightening: fledgling professionals and established entrepreneurs alike build relationship capital by “Yes. Both experiences can leave you feeling “turning connections into relationships and exposed, but vulnerability makes you a better leader.” relationships into legacy.” 23

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SEASONAL SIPS Five Drinks to Cozy up to this Fall in YQG By Jen Brignall-Strong

As summer gives way to sweater weather, the leaves aren’t the only things changing. Across Windsor-Essex, local cafes are refreshing their seasonal offerings; trading in their iced matchas and lemonade concoctions for warm spices and festive favourites. ‘Tis the season for pumpkin spice and everything nice. And while we love a good pumpkin spice latte, it’s not the only drink having a moment right now. Looking to sample a few new favourites this fall? Here are five unique sips that are sure to give you all the cozy vibes.

is topped with cinnamon and best enjoyed cozied up in the Pelissier Street café’s warm, welcoming seating area, surrounded by Smiski (if you know, you know.)

the more traditional cinnamon roll latte to the distinctive Honeycrisp apple shaken espresso. They also now offer a full line of ceremonial grade uji matcha drinks, including the standout pumpkin salted caramel matcha latte.

Recently opened in Windsor’s Via Italia Thiessen Orchards neighbourhood, Cafécito is a warm and welApple Cider Slushie Supreme coming Venezuelan café featuring locally roasted coffee, hot and cold drink options, as well as an assortment of freshly baked pastries. Not ready to give up your cold drinks quite You can see the heart owner Andres puts yet? Soak up the last warm days of the season into everything he does, and their fall drink and cool off with something sweet from one of our region’s most beloved fall destinations. feature is no exception.

The best part? There are now two locations for those looking to get their fix: the original storefront on Ottawa Street near Parent Avenue, and their newest spot in South Windsor in the plaza at Dougall and Cabana.

Cafécito Pumpkin Tres Leche Latte

Pumpkin season with a Latin twist? Say less.

The Pumpkin Tres Leche Latte was created as an homage to his Latin American roots and is the perfect blend of classic autumn flavours and the traditional South American milk cake: a double shot of espresso, house made pumpkin spice syrup topped with tres leche cold foam and spiced cookie crumble. A sweet way to celebrate the season.

March 21 2 Café Sweet Potato Fog A staple in downtown Windsor for over a decade, Café March 21 is known for their Asian-inspired menu and rich, well-crafted pour-over coffee. Want to discover a taste of Korean café culture with a delicious autumn twist? Their signature Sweet Potato Fog is unlike anything else this city has to offer and has become a seasonal favourite over the past several years.

Heading to Thiessen Orchards in Leamington for an afternoon of apple picking and family fun on the farm? Be sure to pop into their Snack Shack for their newest creation: the Apple Cider Slushie Supreme. For those who swear apple is the superior fall flavour (sorry PSL lovers), this refreshing bevvy is sure to hit the spot. Think apple cider but make it a slushie and top it with fresh whipped cream and a mini donut. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds.

Sweet Beans Café Pumpkin Salted Caramel Matcha Latte

The caffeinated little sister of Frost Ice Cream, Sweet Beans Café is relatively new to the scene, but with their house made syrups, strong brews and creative combinations, they’re quickly becoming a favourite among coffee connoisseurs across the city.

A creamy, gently sweet tea latte with Their recently launched fall menu is full earthy sweet potato flavour, vanilla and a of classic cool weather flavours, remixed and citrusy bergamot note, this standout drink reimagined to create unique new brews: from 26

Anchor Coffee House Spiced Date Latte

Those quintessential pumpkin and apple flavours tend to dominate the season, but Anchor Coffee House in Walkerville has another autumn favourite worth a sip. Their Spiced Date Latte brings together Medjool dates, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of salt for a sweet, warmly spiced blend with caramel-like notes. It’s a cozy companion for a crisp fall stroll through the neighbourhood. Of course, they’re also home to all things pumpkin spice, so be sure to grab a scone or other sweet treat while you’re in.

Whether you're a pumpkin spice devotee or looking to try something completely different, Windsor-Essex has plenty of ways to sip into the season. So grab a friend, find a cozy corner and treat yourself to something new. After all, fall flavours are only here for a little while!

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Disclaimer: Sale is valid until December 31, 2026. Eligible Offer Items: The sale applies to the following items: Bounce & Soar Birthday Package & Bounce & Soar VIP Birthday Package. Online Purchase Requirement: To redeem this offer, purchases must be made exclusively online through our official website. Restrictions: Please note that this offer cannot be combined with any other coupons, discounts, or promotions. Not valid on Gift Cards. Only one offer can be applied to each transaction. By participating in this sale, you acknowledge and accept these terms and conditions. We reserve the right to modify or terminate this offer at any time without prior notice. For any inquiries or concerns, please contact our customer support team.

HOT SHOTS

FALL EDITION

Fall is in full bloom at EHF. It’s the perfect time to reinvent your home for the coziest season of the year.

NATURAL SIMPLICITIES Handstone is embracing a popular home décor trend by introducing several lighter stains to their line showcasing the natural beauty of solid wood itself. No two pieces will ever be alike. The new Kyoto collection offers a simple clean line design and with custom size options, you can give your ottoman a face lift by adding this nesting style table.

A BIT OF FIT AND FLAIR Why not combine comfort with visual interest from every angle. Stylus steps up their motion game with a series of new reclining pieces that have taken every little detail into consideration. High-Back… check. Open Concept Friendly… Check… Super Stylish and comfortable… Check. It is worth a visit to the EHF showroom to find your perfect fit.

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS A room does not feel like a home until you have all the finishing touches in place. Adding texture is a great way to create a warm, inviting space. These small accent ottomans are decorative and practical. They can be used for extra seating, a place to rest your tired feet at the end of a long day and the added benefit of storage makes them a true winner for every home.

THE PERFECT COMBINATION This bench seat, down filled dream is the newest addition to the ever-popular Architect Collection from Stylus. With hundreds of fabrics to choose from, this silhouette can transform to become your vision. Visit the Stylus Gallery at EHF to see what makes them a true Canadian treasure in the art of custom seating. 30

LIVABLE ELEGANCE Some spaces demand a little drama and this new collection from Decor-Rest delivers just that. The natural walnut detail elevates this beautiful swivel chair. The bench style, tight back sofa is adorned with reed wood detail and is trimmed with a refined leather flange giving it a subtle touch of sophistication.

PRACTICAL SLEEP SOLUTIONS Coming later this fall to the EHF showroom is a series of space saving sleep solutions. Whether it is the secretary desk, fireplace credenza or ottoman, these beds tuck neatly away until needed for guests. Hidden in multifunction furniture pieces these beds are an answered prayer for people downsizing and living in smaller spaces.

GREEN WITH ENVY This year’s hot accent colour is green. In all its glory, this rich vibrant colour offers a warm depth to your space. Whether an accent cabinet, bookshelf, art work or lamps, this fresh take on furniture is sure to please the fashion minded consumers.

ehfstyle.com 100 Malden Rd. | Essex, ON | 519-776-5553 THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

DRIVE BUSINESS

THE COMPETITION HAS STARTED Who will be crowned Windsor’s Next Top Business? Story & Photos by The Drive Magazine

Momentum is contagious, and no one knows that better than an entrepreneur. Over the summer, The Drive Magazine team put out an open call to small businesses and small business owners in the Windsor-Essex area, asking them to submit a video telling us why they believe they are Windsor’s Next Top Business. The results were overwhelming: creatives all over the region submitted videos explaining their “why.” The competition was fierce, and after much deliberation, six finalists were chosen.

SOUR AND SALT A dynamic duo dedicated to producing sourdough treats through traditional fermentation processes and premium ingredients. Enjoy naturally fermented English muffins, scones, biscuits, pretzels, sourdough crackers and more. Available at several storefronts around the region, like The Cheese Bar, Schinkel’s Meat Market, DeMarco’s Fine Foods and more, the team at Sour and Salt is helping Windsor-Essex celebrate the simple joy of great bread.

LFCA BLOOM ROOM 32

Powered by Laura Fontaine, LFCA Bloom Room is a private creative studio for students of all ages to explore personal connection and creative growth. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts and over 13 years of teaching experience in both art and dance, Laura has created a space where people can truly bloom. Rooted in the belief that art flourishes in spaces built with intention and care, the Bloom Room has become a place where creativity is encouraged to bloom at its own pace.

DESIGN BY KAIT Your space should be an extension of you. From the colours you choose to the furniture you use and the decorations on the wall, every inch should reflect your personal style, and Kaitlyn Fazekas is here to help you bring that to life. Her mission is to make design accessible for everyone and help clients transform their spaces into places they adore. Offering residential and commercial design, Kaitlyn creates designs that feel like home and are crafted for everybody, every style and every moment.

OSMOSIS GLOW Lighting up Windsor-Essex one sign at a time, that’s Osmosis Glow. As self-proclaimed co-conspirators, their team wants to work with you to commemorate and light up your biggest moments. Getting married? Starting a business? Growing your family? There’s a sign for that. Every sign is built with premium materials and without cutting corners. You bring the vision; they’ll bring the glow.

DRIVE BUSINESS

5 DRIVE BUSINESS

MADE FOR IMPACKT

Founded by Mena Rimac, Made for Impackt is a company that writes and illustrates children’s books focusing on messages of encouragement and growth. Her first book, Frosting, is an inspiring and thoughtful story about a young girl named Luna who goes on a journey of self-worth, resilience and believing in herself no matter what. Aimed at educating, inspiring, and empowering youth to live their lives fully and authentically, Made for Impackt is an educational community created on the belief that all people are worthy and valuable.

FUEL ON DELIVERY What if you never had to stop for gas again? With FuelON, gas and diesel are delivered directly to your vehicle, fleet, equipment or boat. Whether you’re at home, at work or on the job site, FuelON keeps residential, commercial and marine vehicles moving. Customers pay pump prices while the team delivers fuel directly to them. Download their app and never waste time at a gas station again!

FOLLOW THE COMPETITION Every week, we’re featuring one of the finalists through a series of social media posts and a full-length video on our website. Follow along at @thedrivemag and get to know all of the finalists as we gear up to announce the winner! 34

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NO FREE RIDES Hundreds of thousands of charitable dollars and countless kilometres later, a proud group of Windsor-Essex Motorcycle enthusiasts are still On a Mission for the Mission By Jesse Ziter Photos by Trevor Booth

Across Windsor and Essex County, area While On a Mission, a registered charity, is bikers have been ganging up against hunger. proud to support the Downtown Mission—it’s What began as a shared passion for motor- right there in the name—the two organizations cycle riding has brought a broader commu- have no formal affiliation. Over nearly twenty nity together to address hunger. For nearly years since its inauguration, On a Mission two decades, the charitable organization has expanded to bolster several other critical On a Mission for the Mission has provided community supports. “We raise money for all meaningful financial support to local food banks in Essex County,” says Nespolon, foodbanks, helping countless area residents “to make sure nobody in our community goes hungry.” navigate food insecurity. This September, On a Mission presented The Drive spoke with Shaun Fathers, presicheques totalling more than $27,000 to area dent, and Shane Nespolon, event coordinator, food banks. The Downtown Mission received in the wake of On a Mission’s eighteenth major $10,000, the Windsor Youth Centre $4,750, fundraising ride. 36

DRIVE COMMUNITY

and the Kingsville Community Food Bank $5,250. A further $3,750 each went to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Banks in Harrow and Leamington.

Look at what everyday riders do for the community when they come together.”

active contributors to On a Mission but also While On a Mission is born of a small friends, well-wishers, and members of the group of local motorcycle enthusiasts, it’s wider public—even if they’ve arrived at the worked hard over the years to build a bigger tent and invite in members of the broader restaurant on four wheels. public. “Everyone is welcome to come and On a Mission still holds an Annual Charity partake in everything we do,” stresses Fathers. Run the week before Labour Day on the last “Motorcycle culture is where it originated, Sunday in August. This year’s ride departed but we didn’t want to pigeonhole ourselves,” from Chuck’s Roadhouse in Tecumseh and adds Nespolon, who notes the annual ride is made its way (via three Legions in Windsor, now a “poker run” open to participants using Essex, and Kingsville) to Colchester Bar and Grill, where participants enjoyed a steak various means of transportation. “A lot of dinner donated by Elaine’s Farm Market, our events are still geared around the riding Bradley’s Potatoes, and the establishment community, but we are opening it up while itself. Other sponsors included Unifor Locals keeping our roots.” That said, Fathers is proud to head an 200, 444, and 2458, Chuck’s, Powell Fence, organization that works to fight the stigmatiand Melady Funeral Home. zation of motorcycle culture as it battles food The Annual Biker Breakfast, a 20-yearsinsecurity. “Look at what everyday riders do strong community event, happens on the for the community when they come together,” first Sunday in January. Held at Colasanti’s says Fathers, citing Hogs for Hospice specifTropical Gardens, it’s known to attract ically. “A lot of people look at clubs with upwards of 300 hungry participants. patches and insignia on their back and think On a Mission operated a donation-based they’re all criminals; that’s TV. It couldn’t be charity photo booth at this year’s Hogs for farther from the truth!” Hospice, Leamington’s major three-day motorOn a Mission for the Mission asks able cycle rally and music festival. Fathers and Windsor-Essex residents—whatever their precompany are currently assembling a charity ferred mode of transportation—to join the cause. calendar from the photos. Sponsors, one-time donors, and volunteers are

“We do whatever we can to help people in need,” says Fathers, who has been involved with On a Mission for eight years. “And the need is growing. I’ve seen the way things have gotten over that time; it’s not getting any better.” Fathers cites rolling shutdowns and layoffs across the automotive sector as major sources of economic instability—and so food insecurity—in Windsor-Essex. “I have a good job,” explains Fathers, a full-time Stellantis employee, “but some people aren’t so lucky, and those are the ones struggling. When you meet those people, the reality is driven home. On Saturday, November 28, the group At least with us keeping the shelves stocked will stage a new concert event called “Legends at the food banks, it removes that aspect, Live” at the Serbian Centre. The dinner-andthat worry.” show promises live tributes to Bryan Adams, On a Mission was founded in 2008 when Freddie Mercury, Cher, and Bob Seger from Willie Milligan organized the first iteration of a popular touring act that bills itself as what is now its flagship annual event, a group “Michigan and Ontario’s #1 Tribute Show.” motorcycle run from Windsor deep into Essex Outside major initiatives, community funCounty. Four years ago, after several eras of draising events include cornhole tournaments, leadership and a few changes in direction, the charity barbecues, and a motorcycle show. club’s official membership had dwindled to three. Fathers rallied a team of regulars to help orchestrate that year’s ride and, eventually, assemble a board of directors. On a Mission became a registered charitable organization in June 2024 after a months-long process of formalization. As president, Fathers now heads a nine-person board of directors which meets monthly.

always welcomed. For more information, consult onamissionforthemission.com. The charity also maintains an active Facebook page. Alternatively, “Just come to the bike night,” encourages Fathers, inviting anybody who can make it to the Tecumseh location of Chuck’s Roadhouse every Wednesday evening. “We’re very open and very welcoming to any support we can get." “The 50-50 is at 7:30!” Photo by Melissa Knight Photography

These days, On a Mission is a year-round concern. Between May and September, Fathers and his team hold weekly “bike night” socials at area restaurants. Every Wednesday, the community meets for a dinner followed by a 50-50 draw; half the proceeds contribute to the charity’s coffers. This community includes Fathers, other board members, and THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

DRIVE PROFILE

DAY AND NIGHT, THE ETERNALIGHT DIFFERENCE Permanent lighting with a seamless daytime finish By Devan Mighton Photos by CNYX Media

When night hits, a home takes on a whole different look. Architectural features stand out, walkways become illuminated, and colourful displays transform an ordinary evening. However, for Eternalight owner Joe Jones, it’s when the sun comes up that the real measure of a permanent lighting installation begins. “Everybody’s lights look good at night,” explains Jones. “I measure my quality on how this looks during the day, because your lights are off more than they’re on.”

A Seamless Finish Eternalight installs Celebright, a Canadian-made permanent LED lighting system manufactured in Ottawa. Its low-profile aluminum track is custom fitted to each home to complement the existing exterior finish. Jones’ goal is to make the system look like a natural part of the home's architecture rather than an addition that draws attention to itself. “I want to make sure that if you have a really beautiful home, this completely blends in with your existing architecture,” says Jones. “Your neighbours won't even know that I've been there.” Achieving that finish takes more than simply attaching lights beneath the eaves. Every home presents its own challenges, from the shape of its roofline and soffits to the placement of mounting tracks and the route of the wiring. Jones approaches each installation with an emphasis on the details, working to ensure the finished system complements the home rather than distracting from it. For Jones, the goal is not simply to install a lighting system but to establish a standard for how permanent lighting should look and be installed. The tracks need to follow the home's lines, the hardware needs to blend with the exterior, and the finished work needs to look considered from every angle. The lighting may be designed to stand out after dark, but the installation itself should never detract from the home during the day.

More Than What Meets the Eye The appeal of permanent lighting extends beyond its appearance after dark. With the Celebright app, homeowners can 38

DRIVE PROFILE

customize colours and patterns for different occasions, from seasonal displays to more subtle architectural lighting. But for Jones, the technology is only part of the equation. The quality of an installation comes down to how well the system is integrated into the home. A lighting display can be impressive at night, but the details that make it a lasting addition are visible long before the lights come on. Careful fitting, a clean finish, and a respect for the existing architecture are what set Eternalight apart from the competition.

Look Beyond the Nighttime Photos When researching permanent lighting, Jones encourages homeowners to look beyond nighttime photographs on the internet. While displays can look impressive after dark, daylight shows the real work, allowing homeowners to examine how closely the tracks follow the roofline, how well the hardware blends with the exterior, and whether wiring or mounting components are unnecessarily visible. “Ask them to see photos of their work during the daytime,” advises Jones. “The daytime is where you can see all the quality.” Eternalight brings thoughtful design and careful installation together to create lighting that transforms a home after dark without compromising its appearance during the day. Because when it comes to permanent lighting, the best sign of a quality installation is what you don't see at all.

THEDRIVEMAGAZINE.COM

DRIVE MIND

WHEN A CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE IS CLOSING Is it just me, or have you noticed how many people seem to be experiencing significant changes in their lives lately? Perhaps it’s because I’m at the beginning of the Gen X era, where many of us are hovering around the 60-year mark and beginning to contemplate retirement. Or perhaps it’s because our children, many of whom are Millennials, are getting married, having babies and starting families of their own. Either way, there seems to be a lot of conversation about closing one chapter and beginning another. People are retiring, selling businesses, downsizing, upsizing, getting married, becoming grandparents, navigating divorce or celebrating a new lease on life after achieving significant health goals. Some changes are exciting while others are heartbreaking. But whether we welcome change or resist it, one thing is certain: Change has a way of asking us to become someone we haven’t been before.

Every Change Brings Its Own Adversity We assume positive changes like marriage, parenthood, or a dream job bring pure happiness, yet even joyful transitions trigger unexpected stress and self-doubt. Conversely, losses such as unemployment, bereavement, divorce, or unplanned retirement cause deep grief and uncertainty. All shifts, whether perceived as good or bad, present unique challenges. Major changes to identity, lifestyle, or security force us to confront inner fears and limiting beliefs. This adversity does not signal a wrong path; rather, it highlights where we cling too tightly and where we can grow.

When Your Ego Kicks Up a Fuss

When The Old Version of You No Longer Fits

When our ego, the “small self,” resists change, it often signals we are on the threshold of meaningful growth. It craves familiarity, predictability, and safety, even when staying put no longer serves or fulfills us.

Reflecting on a past chapter of life: a home, business, or relationship, can bring a quiet neutrality. It is not indifference, but a calm realization that a phase has completed. Endings are often not about losing what we love, but adapting as its form evolves.

Stepping into the unknown triggers doubts: What if I fail, face judgment, or regret it? Yet we rarely ask: What if it succeeds, or what would we do if failure weren’t possible? While some fears are valid, many are simply our smaller self trying to avoid uncertainty.

We struggle when our identity is tied to past roles, homes, or achievements. Yet transition is transformation, not loss. Like a caterpillar entering its chrysalis, entering a new chapter requires letting go of old roles to create room for who we are becoming.

Distinguishing protective fear from fear that keeps us stuck lets us view change as an opportunity to grow rather than a threat. The very thing we resist may be inviting us to become more courageous, trusting, and expansive.

The Stress of Resisting What Is Internal resistance manifests physically as we dwell on conversations, anticipate worst-case scenarios, and wish for different outcomes. However, resisting past events cannot alter them; it only adds suffering to difficulty. Arguing with reality, whether facing an ended marriage, loss, diagnosis, or career change, wastes energy. We need not be happy about these events, but acceptance means meeting the present without fighting it, rather than approving or giving up hope. Releasing rigid expectations makes room for new possibilities. As a dear friend reminds me, “God has a plan.”

Trusting the Bigger Picture During transitions, believing everything unfolds in Divine Order provides comfort. This isn’t about expecting perfection or avoiding pain, but trusting that hidden growth, meaning, and opportunity exist even when the full picture is unclear. The value of an ending often emerges years later: a lost job can ignite a neglected passion, an ended relationship can teach healthy boundaries, and retirement offers freedom to pursue long-held interests. Not all experiences yield obvious gifts, and grief shouldn’t be forced into positive spin. Often, the best path is feeling our emotions while remaining open to new possibilities. Faith means trusting our resilience to handle whatever comes next, rather than needing to predict every outcome.

DRIVE MIND

Three Ways to Gracefully Transition Into Your Next Chapter Moving gracefully through change involves navigating strong emotions like fear or sadness without letting them drive decisions, observing feelings consciously rather than fully attaching to them.

1) Be gentle with yourself and turn down the noise Transitions can be emotionally exhausting, so give yourself permission to go at a gentler pace instead of forcing answers or rushing back to normal. Restore yourself through quiet moments, nourishing care, or time with supportive people. Mute outside noise and expectations so you can tune in to your own inner wisdom.

The true opportunity in change is discovering who we can become because life shifted, rather than trying to revert to who we were before.

2) Embrace the unfoldment (let go of knowing everything) A major cause of tension during life shifts is the assumption that you must immediately understand what lies ahead. Grant yourself grace to simply exist in the space between chapters. Taking your next step does not require a comprehensive five-year roadmap. Frequently, clarity emerges through action rather than passively waiting for answers. Consider target practice: ready, aim, fire! At times, you simply have to fire and watch the subsequent path reveal itself. Too many people remain trapped in the ready stage and never actually take the shot.

3) S hift your gaze from what you leave behind to who you are becoming Instead of anchoring your future to former losses, start molding it around your unfolding self. Consider what personal attributes you wish to bring into this upcoming season, be it deeper connection, expanded freedom, bravery, creative spark, or a richer relationship with your inner self. Ask yourself: “Which qualities do I want to carry forward into this new chapter?”

The Beauty of Beginning Again Every life chapter serves a purpose, offering lessons and experiences that shape who we are becoming. The true opportunity in change is discovering who we can become because life shifted, rather than trying to revert to who we were before. We do not need to rush, know every answer, or enjoy every ending; we only need to remain open to life’s beautiful surprises. Moving forward does not mean abandoning our past, but carrying our wisdom and experiences while releasing what no longer serves us. When we stop resisting an ending, we can embrace the wonderful possibilities ahead.

I’m Teri Gyemi, a passionate life coach with a strong love for human behaviour. My own flawed past and my will to understand the hidden impulses that led me there, as well as my unrelenting desire to serve others, is what inspired me to become a life coach. Equipped with my certifications from the late Debbie Ford of The Ford Institute for Integrative Coaches, 2 decades experience as a life coach, practice as a workshop leader and educator, I have successfully supported clients through a holistic approach in realizing and executing their goals, healing emotionally, reviving their relationships or uncouple from unhealthy ones. My hope is that something I write will encourage those in need to take a step toward positive personal growth. terigyemi.com | psychologytoday.com

events CALENDAR

NOV 1 Céleste’s Café Card Club | Céleste’s Café | 1pm

NOV 15 Santa's Arrival at Devonshire Mall 11am

NOV 1 Windsor Pop-up Wedding Dress Sale Giovanni Caboto Club | 9am-4pm

NOV 16 Card Board Game Night The Shadowbox Theatre | 5-10pm

NOV 2 Ornament Workshop | Augustine Dr. Kingsville | 5:30-7:30pm

NOV 18 River Lights Winter Festival | King's Navy Yard Park & Toddy Jones Park | 7pm

NOV 4 Charity Pasta Night | Giovanni Caboto Club | 4pm

NOV 19 Essex Tree Lighting | Essex Town Hall | 6pm

NOV 5 Music Bingo | Parks & Rec Gastropub and Sports Bar | 7-9pm

NOV 20 Walkerville’s Annual Holiday Walk Wyandotte St W | 5-10pm

NOV 6 Chimczuk Museum: 50 Years of Jazz Concert Promotion in Windsor | Chimczuk Museum | 10am-5pm

NOV 20 Christmas in Tecumseh | Tecumseh Towne Centre | 6pm

music

LIVE

NOV 6 Down 'N Dirty live at The Cherry Rock Lounge | 9pm NOV 7 Danny Miles live at Time Out of Mind Recording Co | 6pm NOV 7 Bob Dylan: The Never-Ending Tribute Show | Walkerville Brewery | 7-11pm NOV 8 Mushroomhead & Fear Factory at FM Lounge | 7pm NOV 19 Lee Brice: Sunriser Tour | Caesars 8pm NOV 21 Mudmen live at the Royal Canadian Legion BR 594 | 8pm NOV 22 Ahren Belisle live at RockStar Music Hall | 6pm NOV 22 Shona Blhue | Phog Lounge NOV 29 Jazz Night at Walkerville Brewery 6-9pm

NOV 27-29 13th Annual Handmade Christmas Extravaganza | WFCU Centre | 4pm

NOV 13 HDGH's The Big Party | Ciociaro Club | 5:30pm

NOV 28-29 Christmas Market | Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village 9am-4pm

NOV 14 2nd Annual Fall Fundraising Banquet | The Grovedale House | 5:30pm

NOV 28 Retros & Records Night Walkerville Brewery | 4-10pm

NOV 14 Windsor-Essex Christmas Market 2026 | WFCU Centre | 11am

NOV 29 Christmas Vendor Market | Fogolar Furlan Club | 10am-4pm

NOV 15 Tinseltown Windsor Christmas Popup | 2pm

NOV 30 Tilbury Lions Christmas Light Festival | Tilbury Memorial Park | 5:30-11pm

For more information scan QR code *Event details are subject to change. We recommend verifying dates, times and availability with the event organizers before attending. The Drive Magazine is not responsible for any changes, cancellations or inaccuracies.

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