THE SUIT. THE DOG. THE LAW FIRM. DAVID HALLIWILL, BRINGING REAL CHANGE AND A FRESH TAKE ON LEADERSHIP TO PEARSALL MARSHALL LLP.
FEEL THE THRILL Turn heads while you turn corners. Rose City Ford blends bold performance with cutting-edge innovation, making every drive exciting and smile-worthy.
This extraordinary act of philanthropy is a testament to John’s vision for the community he loved so deeply.
– Ashley Weeres, Interim Executive Director of Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation
To recognize and celebrate a transformational gift of approximately $40 million from the late John Thomas Fancsy, the New Windsor/Essex Acute Care Hospital will be named The Fancsy Family Hospital.
John Fancsy was a lifelong resident of Windsor-Essex who cared deeply about his community. He was a brilliant engineer with family roots in the automotive sector, and he was instrumental in growing the local wine industry as the co-founder of Viewpointe Estate Winery.
In a remarkable act of generosity, John chose to leave a very generous donation to the new hospital in his will: a lasting gift to the community he loved.
John’s gift marks a milestone in the realization of our new hospital and is a powerful demonstration of the impact of planned giving.
John’s visionary legacy will help ensure the health and wellbeing of Windsor-Essex for generations to come.
Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation will be forever grateful to John Fancsy for his incredible generosity and vision.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN FANCSY AND THE FANCSY FAMILY HOSPITAL AT
Jamie Mingay (pictured) will lead the newly united Ives Insurance Brokers and Insurance Store under the Navacord brand. This union marks a major win for Windsor-Essex, creating one of the region’s largest multi-line general insurance brokerages – boosting the local economy, and building a stronger presence in our community.
For clients, it means more: more resources, more expertise, and more peace of mind knowing they are backed by a best-in-class team. And with Jamie’s leadership and drive to make this the best brokerage in Ontario, the future has never looked stronger.
PAUL ST-PIERRE Publisher
BREANNE MCGINTY Managing Editor, Director of Sales
GREG EDWARDS Graphic Designer
SABINE MAIN ............................................. Creative Director
MARNIE ROBILLARD Art Director
MEL MONCZAK .................................Senior Account Manager
MACKENZIE COJOCAR Publication Assistant
CONTRIBUTORS
DEVAN MIGHTON ............................................................ Writer
JESSE ZITER Writer
JEN BRIGNALL-STRONG .................................................. Writer
LAYAN BARAKAT Writer
MELISSA BUZZEO Writer
TERI GYEMI .................................................................. Writer
MONA ELKADRI .................................................... Stylist/writer
MENA VINCELLI ............................................................ Stylist
MAXIMUS REID Photographer
TREVOR BOOTH...................................................Photographer
ANTHONY SHEARDOWN.......................................Photographer
SYX LANGEMANN.................................................Photographer
NICKI BESTED ................................................... Photographer
ANNA STANLEY.......................................................Copy Editor
Rooted in Windsor–Essex for 60 years, Pearsall Marshall LLP continues its legacy with a collaborative, clientfirst approach
DRIVE THRU
Brothers Chris and Mike Solcz are redefining beer with Hyena, a nonalcoholic, health-focused brew that’s as bold in flavour as it is in purpose
DRIVE LOCAL
10 A neighborhood tree of shoes tells Windsor’s stories of growing up and letting go
DRIVE RECIPE
12 Oh So Mona crafts the perfect mini menu for your next family movie night
DRIVE FASHION
24 Style me Mena takes your graphic tees from work to weekend with four blazer looks that do it all
MENTAL DRIVE
30 Humboldt Broncos crash survivor Tyler Smith opens up about grief, healing, and finding purpose
DRIVE ARTS
42 Fall through the lens of The DRIVE’s photographers as they reveal why fall is perfect for photos, and how to capture it beautifully
DRIVE MIND
46 Gratitude: Your Anchor in a Chaotic World
As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, we say our goodbyes to another YQG summer. The patios and long golden evenings may be behind us but fall has a way of bringing its own kind of magic. A chance to reset, and maybe even pull out our favourite cozy layers.
This issue is all about bold moves and fresh perspectives shaping Windsor-Essex. On our cover, Pearsall Marshall takes the spotlight, showing us what it means to lead with vision and DRIVE. Over in fashion, Mena dives into the graphic tee revolution, proving that transitional dressing can be both bold and wearable showcasing looks that take you from your 9-5 straight to your 5-9. And for something to sip while you flip through these pages, meet the two local brothers behind Drink Hyena, a non-alcoholic beer born from personal change, fueled by wellness, and bursting with flavour.
Every story is a reminder that Windsor-Essex thrives because of the creativity, courage, and The DRIVE of the people who call it home.
We’d love to know what inspires you, share your favourite reads, tag us on social, and join the conversation. Here’s to cooler days, cozy nights, and another season of celebrating YQG together.
Thank you,
Paul St. Pierre Publisher
By Lynn Novak
For years, shoes have dangled from the branches of this quiet neighbourhood tree. Sneakers, boots, flip-flops, and even the occasional high heel swaying in the breeze. But this isn’t just a quirky roadside sight. It has become a local landmark, a kind of open-air time capsule. One long-time resident, who has lived across the street for 30 years, remembers when the very first pair appeared about 15 years ago. Since then, the branches have slowly filled, turning this ordinary tree into a symbol of something unspoken yet shared. A symbol of growing up, letting go, and leaving your mark, one pair of shoes at a time. Inspired by this, we wanted to take a walk in your shoes; gathering stories, memories, and moments from people across the community that reflect the paths they’ve walked and the lives they’ve lived right here in Windsor-Essex.
Have you ever tried looking up the “shoe tree” on Google Maps? Give it a try, you might be surprised at what you find.
"Everything around me has always changed fast. The people, places, seasons. But no matter how much it shifts, this will always be home. And I’ll always be me."
“Windsor-Essex doesn’t hand you anything. You learn to earn it, feel it, carry it, and somehow, you come out softer and stronger all at once.”
Community Local
"I’ve learned a l and lo a l , but at e end e day e one ing I have never lo is a place to ca home.”
Wind r- sex Local
“Don’t judge me until you’ve walked a day in my flip flops.”
Elaine Morrison
“If you’ve walked the roads of WindsorEssex, you’d find there’s heart in every cracked sidewalk and story in every corner store.”
Ron Bouchard
“Every pair tells a story. That’s a reflection of not only this tree, but our community and our focus at The DRIVE Magazine. We strive to tell stories of our community.”
Breanne McGinty
Family movie nights are all about comfort, laughter, and of course, snacks! The best recipes are simple, fun to eat, and full of flavour. Whether your crew craves something sweet, spicy, or creamy, these three quick bites will make snack time just as exciting as the movie itself!
INGREDIENTS
• ½ cup butter
• 2 cups Chex cereal
• 1 cup pretzels, broken into smaller pieces
• 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
• ½ cup milk chocolate chips
• Sprinkle of M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate
Line a baking sheet with parchment. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals for a total of 1-1.5 minutes, stirring after each interval.
In a pan on medium heat, melt the butter and marshmallows until soft and gooey. Remove from heat, then add remaining ingredients except for the M&M's and chocolate. Gently mix, then drizzle chocolate over the mixture and sprinkle in the M&Ms.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 block of cream cheese (cut into 12 slices)
• 3 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and cut into 4
• 12 square wonton wrappers
• Avocado oil (or neutral oil) for brushing
• Honey for drizzle
INGREDIENTS
• 1 sweet onion, small diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt
• Italian parsley for garnish
Using a wonton wrapper, stack a slice of cream cheese and jalapeño in the middle, then roll it together, ensuring to fold in the corners. Repeat this with the remaining 12 wrappers. Brush in oil, then set in the air fryer for 10 minutes. Once finished, drizzle with honey and enjoy. Yield 12 rolls.
In a pan over medium heat, add onions and olive oil. Cook until golden brown and caramelized, then add brown sugar and continue to cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool, then combine in a small bowl with Greek yogurt, garlic powder, and salt. Mix together and garnish with Italian parsley. Enjoy with chips or veggies.
Now hit play, gather your snacks, and let the movie magic begin!
Pearsall Marshall LLP has been part of Essex County’s legal landscape for decades. Today, a new generation of lawyers is carrying it forward—led by a managing partner who’s neither a Pearsall nor a Marshall
By Lynn Novak
Pearsall Marshall LLP has been part of Essex County’s legal landscape for decades. Today, a new generation of lawyers is carrying it forward—led by a managing partner who’s neither a Pearsall nor a Marshall.
For sixty years, Pearsall Marshall LLP has been rooted in Windsor–Essex, carrying forward a tradition of practical, community-minded law. Today, under Managing Partner David Halliwill, the firm’s message is clear: big-firm-calibre legal services don’t require a trip to Bay Street.
“If anyone thinks they need to leave Windsor–Essex for top-quality legal services, I want them to know they don’t have to,” Halliwill says. “We have people who are living here, in our local communities, doing this work. They could be doing it wherever they wanted, because they’re second-to-none in terms of quality.”
This conviction—that exceptional talent can thrive right here at home—defines Pearsall Marshall’s story. The firm owes its six-decades-strong legacy to a culture built on collaboration and care and a set of capabilities proven against the biggest firms in the country.
The story begins in 1965, when Spencer Pearsall opened his doors as an approachable, local lawyer who had a gift for connecting with people. Families across Essex County still recall sitting with him at the dinner table, sharing a glass of wine while talking through their business and family needs. His son-in-law, Elvey Marshall, joined the practice soon after, building on that same tradition of practical, plainspoken advice. For decades, Pearsall and Marshall were known not just for their legal skill, but for the trust they earned as neighbours and problem-solvers. In time, David Seaton became a partner as well, and he continues to contribute to the firm today.
When Marshall retired in 2015, he placed the firm, then called Pearsall Marshall Halliwill & Seaton LLP, in the hands of David Halliwill. Ambitious and eager to make a name for himself, Halliwill quickly realized that the way to honour his predecessors was not to lean on a single reputation, but to build a team. Without Pearsall’s decades of community ties or
What sets Pearsall Marshall apart is the mix of personality, ambition, and teamwork. We’ve got a strong bench of lawyers who genuinely enjoy working together, which makes collaboration natural.
Marshall’s deep Rolodex, sustaining the firm’s forward momentum meant gathering the right people in the right positions, trusted to do what they do best.
That vision took root with the arrival of new partners. Amanda Camlis joined the Leamington office to lead the real estate department. Bart Seguin followed in 2021 to guide the corporate group and manage the Tecumseh office, which began operating under the name Halliwill Seguin LLP. For a period, the Leamington and Tecumseh offices carried different names—Pearsall Marshall Halliwill & Seaton for one, Halliwill Seguin for the other—a situation Seguin admits, “became confusing to the public, and frankly, everyone.” By choosing the Pearsall Marshall name, the firm honours its founders while bringing its modern team under a single, unified identity for the future.
That growth has also come through welcoming the clients of respected colleagues as they transitioned into retire -
ment. In 2022, Pearsall Marshall integrated the long-standing Tecumseh practice of Craig Stevenson, who had served the community since 1980 with a focus on real estate and estates. The following year, the firm assumed carriage of George Reynolds’ practice upon his retirement after more than fifty years in law. Each transition reinforced Pearsall Marshall’s commitment to continuity, ensuring that clients who had relied on their lawyers for decades could continue receiving trusted advice within the firm’s growing team.
As the firm expanded, the partners worked to preserve something less tangible but equally vital: culture. They believed that law should never feel distant or intimidating, and that lawyers do their best work when they feel supported—both at the office and at home. At many firms, the name on the letterhead is the only lawyer who interacts with clients, while associates toil away in the background. Pearsall Marshall rejects
that model. Every lawyer and staff member is encouraged to build direct relationships with clients—to listen first, and to know they have the strength of the team behind them. “We are able to do what we do because each of our lawyers and staff—first and foremost—are good people,” Halliwill explains. “They care about our clients and are encouraged to understand their situation on a personal level.”
Seguin adds that the firm’s collaborative spirit is reinforced through weekly department meetings, where lawyers share what’s on their desks and exchange ideas. It’s a structure that blends accountability with creativity, making sure no one works in isolation. The same spirit extends beyond the lawyers to the staff who keep the firm humming. From the office manager to the clerks to the legal assistants, each
employee embodies the firm’s culture and ensures continuity and connection across offices. Their presence ensures that Pearsall Marshall’s growth has never come at the expense of its character and warmth. “It feels more like family than work,” explains Peter Renaud, longtime ‘glue guy’ who floats between offices offering a hand wherever it is needed.
Behind the scenes, the atmosphere is intentionally relaxed. “We’ve grown into bigger offices and more people, but we try to maintain a small firm feel,” says Halliwill. “We sincerely believe in the importance of work-life balance. We want our people to thrive both at home and at work, whether they’re lawyers or legal assistants.” The belief is simple: people provide better service to clients when they’re given the flexibility to
take time off when they need it—whether that’s a family vacation or just an hour during the day to watch their kids’ track meet or dance recital.
Grounded in those values, Pearsall Marshall has grown into a firm of thirteen lawyers and more than thirty staff, offering a wide range of services across Windsor–Essex. With dedicated practice groups in corporate law, real estate, estates, and employment, the firm combines depth with agility. Each department is led by an experienced partner—Seguin in corporate, Camlis in real estate, Robert Tomek in estates, and Michael Wills in employment—ensuring that clients receive advice from lawyers who focus on the issues that matter most to them. That reach is reinforced by new offices in Kingsville and Leamington, the long-established presence in Tecumseh, and a new website that brings it all together.
That breadth allows the firm to manage files of every scale, from everyday residential transactions to complex business deals. “In recent years, we’ve successfully handled multiple transactions where, on the other side, was a large Toronto firm with twentyplus lawyers assigned to a single file,” recalls Halliwill. “And we’ve shown what a focused team can accomplish.”
The point is not just pride but also proof: sophisticated work can be done right here in Windsor–Essex.
The corporate group has become a driver of growth, supported by a strong team of associates. Lyndsey Magliaro focuses on corporate financing and commercial real estate, bringing strength and depth to the firm’s transactional work. Shannel Diewold advises on corporate and commercial law, working closely with clients’ financial and tax advisors to deliver comprehensive solutions; she emphasizes the importance of connection in her approach: “Practising business law in Windsor–Essex means more than providing legal advice. It’s about being part of a community where relationships matter.” Mitchell MacLean’s practice is centred around mergers and acquisitions leaning on the experience gained from working on Bay Street prior to joining Pearsall Marshall.
The same level of focus shapes other departments. In real estate, Camlis guides
families through home purchases while also navigating the intricate world of land use planning and development. “Land use planning and development require a unique skillset and a keen attention to detail,” she explains. “Not many lawyers have had the opportunities I’ve had to develop that knowledge base, and I’m excited to continue helping clients with projects that will shape Windsor–Essex moving forward.” In estates, Tomek draws on nearly twenty-five years of experience to exceed client expectations. “Practising estate planning law for as long as I have gives me a much greater appreciation of the importance of balancing creativity and practicality, knowing that at some point a person’s Will is all that their loved ones will have to ensure their wishes are fulfilled,” he says.
If anyone thinks they need to leave Windsor–Essex for top-quality legal services, I want them to know they don’t have to.
In labour and employment law, Michael Wills leads a practice that reflects the firm’s balance of personality and professionalism, advocating for both employers and employees with the same collaborative spirit that defines the rest of the team. He is joined by Susan McBride, a lawyer with more than twenty years of experience focused on employer-side WSIB claims and workplace safety matters, and by associate Michael Di Risio, who advises across employment, labour, and human rights issues. Together, the group provides comprehensive guidance on everything from wrongful termination to WSIB appeals, ensuring that businesses and employees alike have trusted advocates at their side.
Associates Jenna M. Hotham and Andrea Simonits further strengthen the firm’s depth across multiple practice areas.
Hotham, who practises in wills, estates, and real estate, is known for her attentive, client-focused style and for carrying forward Pearsall Marshall’s compassionate, human-centric ethos. Simonits focuses on estate planning and administration, working closely with trust companies and financial institutions. She emphasizes the importance of early succession planning: “An effective plan ensures loved ones understand your intentions clearly and are properly taken care of,” she says.
Technology underpins much of this work, but it’s the people who make it matter. Pearsall Marshall was an early adopter of virtual signings, sophisticated digital file management, and even artificial intelligence tools to streamline operations. These innovations don’t replace the human touch— they enhance it, freeing lawyers and staff to spend more time where it counts: listening, advising, and guiding clients with care.
Six decades on, Pearsall Marshall continues to carry forward the legacy of its founders with a culture rooted in community and a practice built on broad capabilities. What began as the vision of two approachable lawyers at kitchen tables has become a modern, multi-office firm known for collaboration, balance, and high-calibre results, close to home.
And in the words of partner Wills, the firm’s defining strength remains simple: “What sets Pearsall Marshall apart is the mix of personality, ambition, and teamwork. We’ve got a strong bench of lawyers who genuinely enjoy working together, which makes collaboration natural. The firm is deeply rooted in the regions we serve, but at the same time, it has the drive and vision of a much larger outfit.”
As Halliwill notes, Essex County clients don’t need to look to Bay Street for top-quality representation—they already have it here. “People don’t need to leave Windsor–Essex to find excellent legal services. Our lawyers live and work in these communities, and we’re proud to stand alongside our clients. We’ll continue to do this work with the same foundation, principles, and expertise that have carried us for sixty years.”
With offices across the county, Pearsall Marshall makes legal services more accessible to families and businesses where they live and work.
Pearsall Marshall LLP Serving Windsor–Essex for 60 years
Offices
1788 Division Road, Kingsville
225 Erie Street South, Leamington 1222 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh
Website pearsallmarshall.com
With the Fall weather fast approaching, it’s time to tuck away the light clothing and start thinking about pieces that can transition easily into the upcoming season. Although graphic t-shirts might seem like an item that can be stored away until the nice weather approaches again, they are a must-have piece that should remain in a closet. According to fashion stylist, Style me Mena, there are several reasons to keep those tees nearby as they are easy to style with a blazer. By using diff erent graphic tees, she offers advice on how to style them with a blazer, creating looks that are fun, playful and can be professional too. She proves that graphic tees, accompanied by blazers, can be some of the most versatile pieces that a person will have in a closet.
1The first look inspired by Mena, begins with a slogan tee and adds a black blazer on top. This look requires minimal jewelry; gold studs, a bracelet and a watch, in order to make the slogan tee pop. Although this type of tee is playful, the structured blazer allows this look to be taken into the office. To complete the office look, Mena suggests adding a simple straight leg denim pant or a simple trouser. If a quick transition is required to change into an evening look, Mena says, “Switch the bottoms to leather trousers or a slip skirt with ankle boots.” A bold lip can be added for that extra touch. On the weekend, Mena says this same graphic tee and blazer can be, “Swapped for high-waisted jeans, sneakers, and don’t forget to push up sleeves on the blazer.”
The second look styled by Mena combines an artsy print tee with a simple grey blazer. If wearing this look to the office, Mena says, pair it with a black skirt, tights, and add a bow in the hair. For shoes, simple black boots with a kitten heel are a great choice and she recommends dainty earrings for jewelry. After work, this outfit becomes more playful. Mena says to change bottoms into, “A mini skirt with tights, ankle boots, and add layered necklaces.” To wear this artsy tee and blazer on the weekend, Mena says both will compliment a straight-leg jean, block heels and a crossbody bag.
A true fan favourite is the third look from Mena, a retro band tee and a plaid blazer. For the office, Mena says this type of tee and blazer can be worn with a fitted trouser, sneakers, small gold hoops, a stack of rings and a fun bag. This fun look transitions easily into nighttime with a quick change into black shorts, strappy heels and statement earrings. Finally, Mena says for that weekend look, pair the retro tee and blazer with a denim midi skirt, trainers and a straw tote. Mena adds that this retro band tee and blazer can be mixed with different textures like linen, denim, leather and silk.
The final look described by Mena is a minimal graphic tee and a bold red blazer. To wear this look to the office, Mena says, wear the graphic tee, and bold blazer with black wideleg trousers, add pumps, subtle jewelry and top it off with a cheetah print belt. To take this look into the evening, Mena says to change into a monochrome skirt, add metallic heels and don’t forget a clutch. If you wear this on the weekend, pair the tee and blazer with light-wash jeans, ballet fl ats and a woven tote. According to Mena, a helpful tip to consider when pulling off these three looks is to keep all clothing simple, as it allows the blazer colour to pop.
RW & Co., ALDO & H&M
In addition to giving outfit suggestions for styling graphic tees with blazers, Mena has styling tips that she likes to rely on. When choosing a blazer, she says, “Shoulders and fit are everything.” There should only be one focal point- either the blazer or the tee, otherwise the look becomes too busy. To create an instant vibe, she suggests changing shoes, as well as rolling sleeves on a blazer. For the final touch, Mena says to layer jewelry, but make sure it’s not overdone.
Colchester Ridge Estate Winery (CREW) proudly participated in this year’s Battle of the Hors D’oeuvres Summer Nights, hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor-Essex (BBBSWE). Competing alongside other local restaurants, CREW earned top honours with their General Tao Cauliflower.
Established in 2001 by Nancy and Bernie Gorski, CREW spans 12 acres in the heart of Lake Erie North Shore wine country. The winery features a full-service restaurant with a chef-curated menu,
award-winning wines, a welcoming event space, live music performances, and a charming art gallery. Chef Vanessa Parent, born and raised in Windsor, brings over 20 years of experience and a Red Seal from Stratford Chef School to the kitchen. Together with Owner Bernie Gorski and General Manager Tanya Sammut, the team was proud to participate in this important community event.
Battle of the Hors D’oeuvres has been a major fundraising event in Windsor-Essex for more than 30 years. Known for its
lively atmosphere, it brings together some of the region’s best chefs and restaurants in support of youth mentoring. Stay tuned to see what the next Battle holds.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of WindsorEssex (BBBSWE) is a local non-profit serving nearly 500 children and youth annually through seven mentoring programs, many of which run in over 50 schools across Windsor-Essex.
To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit wementor.ca or call 519-945-6232.
Humboldt Broncos crash survivor and mental health advocate
Tyler Smith to speak at 'Check In, Don't Check Out'
By Devan Mighton
The odds were astronomical, more than one-in-a-million. In 2018, the Humboldt Broncos had been heading up and down rural Saskatchewan highways for almost half a century with little-to-no problems—them and dozens of other junior and youth hockey teams from across the province, with the lone exception being the 1986 Swift Current Broncos single-vehicle crash that killed four. These long bus rides are a rite to passage for hockey players across Canada and the United States, and rarely does anything bad occur.
As hockey teammates, coaches, and management, their fates were always intertwined as a part of a storied club in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, but in a mere fraction of a second their lives would be scattered, lost, and their legacy, as a whole and individually, would be forever changed.
On the evening of July 6, 2018, near the village of Armley, Saskatchewan, a busload of 29 souls were headed to a playoff game in a neighbouring town, cruising northbound along on Highway 35. They had done this dozens of times before and everything was as usual on the bus. Players were napping, reading, listening to music with hoodies pulled down over their heads. These Broncos were dialing-in for an important game and were not to be distracted.
Of the 29 souls onboard, only 13 would survive. Little did they know, a transport truck had careened through a stop sign and into the intersection just ahead of them and the bus had T-boned the vehicle.
"Grief is a wild beast," recounts Tyler “Ty” Smith, a former Broncos player and a survivor of the crash. On Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, Ty will be at the Serbian Centre as the keynote speaker for Check In, Don’t Check Out—an event to discuss men’s mental health, put on by the Canadian Mental Health Association and Private Financial Group. For more information, call 519-2559940 x161.
It’s been quite a journey for Ty as the past seven-and-a-half years have unfolded. For three years now, he has been sharing his story.
“It's really quite fulfilling and something I never anticipated doing,” he explains. “It's interesting where a life takes you to sometimes. I've been to some really neat places that I never thought I'd be before and I've met some incredible people. I'm super grateful to be able to share my story a little bit and connect with individuals that I probably wouldn't have connected with before.”
“A lot of people ask how I can just keep sharing and bringing up past trauma,” he continues. “As much as the core of it was that day, when we lost 16 beautiful souls, it's obviously been a little bit more of a personal, for me, journey afterwards.
allowed to go out there and meet new people and see new parts of the world,” he states. “I think that's something that I've leaned into, with the help of my fiancée—and I think she's been able to push me, in a way, to keep doing it and keep trying and keep getting out there.”
Ty says that he never anticipated being a mental health advocate or speaker, but he enjoys it and sees it as a way of giving back for the overwhelming support that he, his teammates, and their families received in response to the disaster.
Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations. Originally, I never thought that was true—I never thought I'd be able to find a silver lining and find myself again.
As their bus entered Armley Corner, where their road intersects with Highway 335, for an instant, time stood still. In the blink of an eye, life changed for all onboard—with a sudden roar and incomprehensible violence, the entire front of the bus disappeared.
“Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations. Originally, I never thought that was true—I never thought I'd be able to find a silver lining and find myself again. Over time, the support systems and the people around me helped guide me into a place of finding joy again and being able to put myself out there and get outside of my comfort zone a little bit more and do this.”
Ty credits his fiancée, Kat Kastner, as someone who has pushed him to grow and heal. The couple, who marry this fall, competed together and won The Amazing Race Canada in 2023, and enjoy travelling together.
“This is your journey and your life and you are allowed to seek joy and you're
“As cliche as it sounds, even if just one person leaves every event that I do with a little bit more hope and a little bit more purpose to keep going, and keeps taking steps and to keep trying—because, on the personal side of things, grief’s an ever-evolving thing and I think right now I understand a little bit more of what works for me and I'll rely on that,” he explains. “I know I have people in my corner and I’m able to practice what I preach.”
“Mental health is not a battle to be won; it's a journey to continue walking. I think COVID brought up a lot for a lot of people. We weren't prepared to sit with our own thoughts for such a long time with no social connection, but I think getting to a place to figure out what works for you—I think can be quite a beautiful journey.”
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By Jen Brignall-Strong
by Maximus Reid
Chris and Mike Solcz are fl ipping the script on what a beer can be.
After witnessing the negative effects of alcohol in their younger years, the brothers set out to create a non-alcoholic beer that combined bold flavour with added health benefits.
“After high school, I was working in a trade I wasn’t passionate about and sort of living for the weekend,” shares Chris. “My friends and I were partying a lot and it went from something that was once fun to something that really starting negatively impacting my mental and physical health.”
As Chris was re-evaluating his own habits, Mike found himself at a similar crossroads. Though he had built a successful career in e-commerce and even invented a popular backyard game, Frizbowl, he began to feel a disconnect between the product’s focus on partying and the values he was starting to embrace.
Inspired by their family’s strong entrepreneurial spirit and a drive to create something more meaningful, the brothers started envisioning a “better for you” company; one that prioritized wellness, sustainability, and a lifestyle that felt more aligned with the people they were becoming.
And so, the idea for Hyena was born.
Chris admits that prioritizing wellness and leaving drinking behind initially felt isolating, but it soon became clear they weren’t alone.
“The concept really came from wanting to bring together these two worlds that aren’t
traditionally related - beer and wellness,” he shares. “We saw there was a community for it.”
“We started doing some research and found there was a really big gap for anything functional in non-alcoholic beer,” adds Mike. “We thought a beer infused with electrolytes would really work, especially because many of the people who drink non-alcoholic beer, like athletes, are also focused on hydration.”
After nearly two years of research and development, the brothers brewed their first functional non-alcoholic beer; a hoppy, India Pale Ale (IPA) style beverage with just 60 calories, 550 milligrams of electrolytes, and broad-spectrum ocean minerals.
Mike says they went through several iterations before perfecting the recipe, which includes a liquid electrolyte solution sourced from Australia.
“The solution is harvested from deep ocean water and concentrated through solar evaporation,” says Chris. “Our minerals are carefully sourced from a remote, pristine ocean water source in a way that protects surrounding marine ecosystems. This sustainable process was very important to us, and it creates one of the most bioavailable forms of electrolytes available, naturally
The concept really came from wanting to bring together these two worlds that aren’t traditionally related – beer and wellness. We saw there was a community for it.
rich in magnesium, potassium, and other essential trace minerals.”
While the pair are passionate about brewing a non-alcoholic beer with cleanlabel ingredients and no sugar or additives, they’re just as focused on creating something great tasting that people actually feel good, even ‘cool’, drinking.
“We love the taste of craft beer, and we wanted to make something that allowed people to enjoy the flavour without the negative aftereffects,” says Chris. “We also really wanted to focus on the branding and make Hyena something people were excited to order; a cool-looking can without a giant ZERO on it.”
Mike adds that with Hyena, they’re building more than a beverage; they’re fostering a community of people pursuing healthier lifestyles. It’s not just for athletes or wellness enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who wants to feel included, connected, and confident in their choice not to drink alcohol.
The brothers say their initial offering has been embraced by many establishments across Windsor-Essex, including fitness facilities, shops, and breweries, as well as bars, cafes, and restaurants. They’ve also
been a part of several community gatherings including the Via Italia bike races, local run clubs, and other sporting events.
“We were born and raised in Windsor and we have had such amazing support here so far; it’s exciting to watch this community grow right here in our own backyard,” says Mike.
As the market for non-alcoholic beverages continues to expand, the brothers are currently back in R&D mode developing their next release. Looking forward, Chris says they plan to explore even more styles in the coming year while hopefully expanding their reach across Canada.
“We’re collecting feedback at our events and asking people, ‘What do you want to see next?’” says Mike. “It’s very grassroots and these groups are really helping shape what we make.”
By Layan Barakat
(and all our photographers!)
Pumpkin spice season is officially upon us, and as the crisp autumn air sweeps through the city, it brings a spectacular array of vibrant colours and picturesque scenes that are perfect for capturing in photographs. To help you make the most of this stunning season, we’ve gathered tips from the talented photographers at The DRIVE magazine. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a hobbyist looking to improve your fall photo skills, these insights will guide you to create beautiful autumn memories.
My tips for good fall photos in Windsor, Ontario, are as follows: First, don’t jump the gun on your timing. The leaves don’t change colour until way later than most people realize. I always aim to book my sessions around the third week of October. Some years, the leaves don’t change colours until the following week. Once you notice the leaves have changed, jump on it because they fall shortly after.
I love heavily wooded parks such as Brunet, Optimist, Malden, and Ojibway. You don’t want anything out of place in your background, just nature. You need to find that soft light when doing mid-day shoots on a sunny day. I always look for a good shady area, which is why many of the leaves should still be on the trees, but you also want some on the ground to tie the whole scene together. Once you find your shaded area, you typically want your subject facing the way the sun is, but in some scenes, you may want them facing the opposite way. If you are unsure of direction, you can quickly have your subject face north, south, east and west. It will be clear which way the much nicer, clean light is coming from. I always hold my hand up in each direction to see how the light looks on my hand and then I go from there.
Anthony Sheardown Photography asheardownphoto@gmail.com
Fall is my favourite time of year to do family photoshoots when all the leaves have changed colour. I love heading to a Conservation area with all the trees as a stunning background. I usually suggest that my clients wear solid-coloured clothes instead of wearing a lot of patterns. It’s always nice to wear colours that complement the fall colours. Shooting at golden hour is the perfect time of day as it will reduce harsh shadows, and the sun will illuminate the leaves. If you have the option to take photos around a lake or body of water, this can add an amazing effect as the trees will reflect off the water. Fall is the perfect time for photoshoots, with so many cute clothes options and naturally beautiful scenery to use as the perfect backdrop.
Nicki Lynn B Photography @nicki.lynnbphotography
1. Time Your Shots
Evening light (the golden hour) enhances warm tones, softens shadows, and creates fl attering skin tones for portraits. Avoid harsh midday sun.
2. Coordinate Outfits
For families, suggest cozy fall outfits in neutral tones that complement one another. Skip the matching T-shirts and think like a stylist.
3. Capture Authentic Moments
Encourage interaction like tossing leaves, walking hand in hand, or laughing together to create genuine, memorable images.
4. Seek Reflections
Great for landscapes and portraits alike, reflections in water or shiny surfaces can add depth and creativity.
5. Focus on Details
Close-ups of leaves, boots, or hands holding mugs help tell the full story and add variety to your photo series.
6. Consider Composition
Don’t just center your subject. Use the rule of thirds or leading lines to make your photos more visually engaging.
Interested in the technical side of photography? I teach Digital Photography levels 1 & 2 at St. Clair College every semester on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Syx Langemann Photography Syxlangemannphotography.com
Normally, I’m knee-deep in the rock ‘n’ roll scene, but when the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I trade stage lights for golden hour glow. My fall sessions treat every subject like the rockstar of their own story, with autumn’s colours as the perfect backdrop. Before heading out, make sure your gear is ready to roll. Charge batteries, clear and back up memory cards, and give lenses a good clean. Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and pack a
rain cover... Moody skies can make for some of the most dramatic, cinematic shots! Lighting is everything. Overcast days create soft, even light, but nothing beats golden hour. That magical hour before sunset when warm tones flatter every subject and give your photos an irresistible glow.
Wardrobe is key to tying everything together. Suggest cozy, layered outfits in natural tones that complement the fall palette. Avoid logos or clashing patterns and bring a blanket for comfort or cozy group shots.
Location scouting is crucial. Botanical gardens, parks, and trails are perfect backdrops, but fall colours change fast; when you find the right spot, capture it while you can.
As you shoot, focus on authentic moments: walking hand in hand, laughing, or throwing leaves. Stay ready for the spontaneous shots that tell the real story.
So grab your camera, embrace the season, and rock your fall portraits.
Maximus Photography Maximusxphotography@gmail.com
Fall is probably the most popular season, especially in Canada, due to the colour changes we see every year. This is especially true in some local areas like Ojibway Nature Reserve or Point Pelee Nation Park (pictured).
The first tip is to dress for the elements. Wearing layers will allow you to stay comfortable and give you versatility if the
weather changes quickly, as it does on many fall days. It was very cold for this time of year up at that height, and if I hadn’t dressed properly, I would have rushed this image.
The second is to use a tripod. There is no rush when taking landscape images. Patience is your best friend.
And lastly, the “golden hour” is your best friend. This time of day is when the sun is almost set but not quite. I suggest getting to your favourite location(s) around 5pm to scout some possible spots that will be the “one” for sunset. This boardwalk image is one I’ve taken numerous times at various times of the day and year. And I knew that time of day, late October, when I wanted to get this image. As the sun was setting behind me, the soft glow on the horizon overlooking the marsh was the exact look I was going for. I lucked out that the moon was full that evening as well.
Trevor Booth Photography Trevorboothphotography.ca
Life today often feels like a high-speed roller coaster. We're constantly bombarded with demands on our time and attention thanks to an endless stream of digital inputs and distractions. Adding to this overwhelming feeling are the external pressures of our current world. A volatile political climate, the rising cost of living and its inherent insecurities combined with rapid societal shifts can cause deep pressure. Working together with the constant anxieties surrounding our health, our families' well-being, and the complexities of building healthy relationships can put a strain on us in many ways. It's a lot, and its impact can be insidious.
Before you know it, you can fi nd yourself intensely agitated, losing faith in humanity, and braced for the next setback. The joy seems to vanish from your daily life. I understand completely as I've been there too! At times I found myself caught in a fear-driven spiral where appreciation and thankfulness had no place in my mind.
But here's what I've learned: gratitude is the ultimate ascension attitude. To escape life's metaphorical snake pit you can focus on what you're grateful for and it will help you ascend out of this negative loop. You simply cannot simultaneously be in a state of fear and a state of gratitude—it's one or the other. So, what will you choose?
When we're constantly pulled in different directions without time to process, rest, or renew, we can become trapped in negative spirals. Insecurities can run wild and low-vibe thinking can overshadow anything positive. We sometimes forget to acknowledge the richness in our lives. This can be due to the messages we encounter daily, which often prompt us to focus on what we lack rather than the abundance we already enjoy. Cultivating gratitude allows us to truly savour and appreciate our lives with renewed grace.
It can be challenging to fully appreciate life's blessings. Consider the simple acts you perform daily, like nourishing your body and mind, feeding your family, moving freely, and accomplishing tasks. When facing difficulties, I sometimes have to start with the absolute basics, such as having two eyes and a mouth! Many activities we take for granted—like pursuing an education, affording healthy food, commuting to work, or maintaining a clean home can pose significant hurdles for countless individuals.
Recognizing your own abundance can lead to a profound sense of compassionate gratitude, though it may also bring pangs of guilt. Understand that the purpose of this reflection is to deepen your capacity for gratitude and compassion. This realization has the power to open your heart completely, fostering a deeper appreciation that allows you to value your life and see the countless blessings.
Don’t
Dr. John Demartini, author of Gratitude Effect and one of my mentors, advocates a daily practice of cultivating gratitude before getting out of bed. He recounts a powerful experience from his youth, when an elder, observing his struggles with drug addiction, instructed him "not to get out of bed until he was moved to tears of gratitude."
This story underscores the importance of starting each day with heartfelt appreciation. By genuinely recognizing and feeling grateful for what you have the moment you awaken, you establish an energetic foundation to receive life's gifts. He emphasizes beginning the day with gratitude affirmations, often aligning these internal statements with his personal values and vision—a practice he has maintained for decades.
While gratitude says, ‘Life is a gift’, its opposite says, ‘Life is a burden or not enough.’ Gratitude is often described as the ‘highest vibration of the heart.’ Its opposite could be seen as separation - the feeling of being cut off from life, love and meaning. This is where we experience alienation, despair or a sense of void creating affects on us mentally, physically and spiritually. Trust me, being a ‘beyond middled aged’ woman, I’m very aware of how having an attitude of gratitude can change a scowl in a smile or a stooped posture to one with shoulders back and spine tall, embracing life rather than letting life bring you down. One attitude has a magnetic response the other a repelling response. One behaviour draws people closer, one has people wanting to avoid you. I’m not saying we should over-ride the hardships. I’m saying the antidote for lack is gratitude.
Gratitude is choice, an attitude, an approach towards life. Gratitude says: ‘I’m thankful for this challenge because it’s growing me.’ Opposite: ‘This shouldn’t be happening, I’ve been cheated.’ Again, I ask you, what will you choose?
Gratitude is a moment to moment celebration.
September 24 | Wednesday Cruise Night Parks & Rec Gastropub & Sports Bar 5pm-10pm
September 25-27 | OKTOBERFEST Drouillard Road | 5pm-10pm
September 26 | Fire & Flannel Festival Downtown Wyandotte | 3pm-11pm
September 26 | Check In Don’t Check Out 1400 Windsor Avenue | 1:30pm-3:30pm
October 10 | Belle River Stroll the Streets Party Belle River Legion Branch 399 | 9pm
October 11 | LaSalle Autumn Market | LaSalle Event Centre | 11am-5pm
October 13 | Nature in Motion: Monarch Migration Hike | Point Pelee National Park 6:30pm-8pm
October 14 | High Tea Tuesdays | Cindys Home and Garden | 11am-1:30pm
September 27 | Erie Wildlife Rescue Yard & Bake Sale | Erie Wildlife Rescue 10am-3pm
September 27-28 | 46th Annual Ruthven Apple Festival | Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens 9am-5pm
September 28 | Walkerville Distillery District Night Market | Walkerville Brewery 5pm-11pm
September 28 | Run with Her 5k Run/Walk McHugh Park | 9:30am
September 29 | Bloom Biz Chats | Céleste’s Café | 6:30pm-8pm
September 30 | Mack Flash Trivia | Parks & Rec Gastropub and Sports Bar | 7pm-10pm
October 1 | Astrology Practice Evening | White Feather Holistic Arts | 7pm-9pm
October 2-3 | Bench Talks 2025 | Windsor Downtown Mission | 11am
October 3 | Knowledge Knock Out Trivia Fundraiser | Ciociaro Club | 6pm-9pm
October 3 | Halloween Town Pop-Up WindsorEats | 5pm-11pm
October 4 | The BOO-nies Halloween Bash The Boonies Drive in Theater | 4pm-11pm
October 4 | Fall Charcuterie Board Workshop Anna’s Garden Home & Wellness | 2pm
October 5 | Tart & Soul Butter Tart Festival WindsorEats | 11am-3pm
October 5 | Harvest & Horses Festival | John R. Park Homestead | 11am-5pm
October 7 | Mack Flash Trivia Parks & Rec Gastropub and Sports Bar | 7pm-10pm
October 9 | Paint & Dinner Real Food Kitchen & Bake Shop | 6pm-8pm
October 15 | Witchy Pumpkin Paint Party Cramdon’s Tap & Eatery | 6:30pm
October 16 | An Evening with Glen Drover 3315 Banwell Rd. | 6:30pm
October 17 | Live at the Square Free Concert Series | City Hall Square West | 7pm-9pm
October 18 | 5K Run & Wheel | John McGregor Secondary School | Starts 9am
October 18 | Bowl-A-Ween | REVS Rose Bowl 2pm-4pm
October 19 | Tecumseh Farmers Market Lacasse Park | 9am-12pm
October 19 | Caffeine and Glow | Anna’s Garden, Home & Wellness | 11am
October 20 | Annual Winterize Drive-Thru 8:30am-4pm
October 21 | Small Business Summit | St. Clair College Centre for the Arts | 8:30am-2:30pm
October 22 | Needle Felted Pumpkins and Acorns | 839 Ottawa St. | 6pm
October 23 | Sports & Pop-culture Trivia Night Factory House | 7pm-9:30pm
October 24 | The Last Howl Murder Mystery Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village
October 25 | The Boonies Rocktober Night The Boonies Drive In Theater | 5pm-10pm
October 25 | Trunk or Treat Lacasse Park 6pm-8pm
October 26 | Spooky Car Crawl Families First Funeral Home | 10am
October 27 | Spooky Story Writing Challenge Windsor Public Library Local History Branch All Day
*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.
September 26 | Live Music Featuring Dave Wilson | CREW Winery | 5pm-8pm
September 27 | Live Music Featuring David Labute | CREW Winery | 5pm-8pm
September 27 | Broadway Bunch | Armouries Performance Hall | 7:30pm
September 28 | Live Music Featuring Jason Baclig | CREW Winery | 2pm-5pm
October 3 | Carson Janik | Daisy & Co. Wine Bar | 6:30pm-9:30pm
October 10 | Mark Chichkan | Daisy & Co. Wine Bar | 6:30pm-9:30pm
October 11 | Reckless Upstarts, Disco Assault, Decade | Dominion House | 9pm
October 11 | Dueling Pianos - Tommy Lee Thompson | Parkside Grille | 7:30pm-10:30pm
October 12 | Mary Newland and Richard Baker Paglione Estate Winery | 3pm-6pm
October 18 | Cherry Garcia Band | Cherry Rock Lounge | 10pm
October 19 | Adam Butcher | Daisy & Co. Wine Bar | 3pm-6pm
October 26 | Emily Staley | Daisy & Co. Wine Bar | 3pm-6pm
