Investing rules of the road
Your investment goals are as unique as the route you take to reach them. But regardless of your course, we believe these 10 “rules of the road” can help you get where you want to be.
1. Develop your strategy - Your financial professional gets to know you – your long-term goals, investment time frame and comfort level with risk – before recommending a strategy that’s tailored just for you.
2. Understand risk - As a rule, the higher the return potential, the more risk you’ll have to accept. A financial professional can help you understand your comfort level with risk and how much you’re able or need to take.
3. Diversify for a solid foundation - Your portfolio’s foundation is your asset allocation, or how your investments are diversified among stocks, bonds, cash, international and other investments. Your mix should align with your goals and comfort with risk.
4. Stick with quality - Quality is one of the most important aspects to consider. Although it may be tempting to buy a popular investment, it may not fit with the rest of your portfolio, and it may be riskier than you expect.
5. Invest for the long term - Despite stories of fortunes made on one or two trades, most successful individual investors make their money over time, not overnight.
6. Set realistic expectations - Determine the return you’re trying to achieve – which should be the return you need to reach your goals. Then you can base your expectations on your asset allocation, the market environment and your investment time frame.
7. Maintain your balance - Your portfolio’s mix could drift from its initial objectives from time to time. You can rebalance to reduce areas where your investments are overweight or add to areas where they are underweight to remain on track to reach your goals.
8. Prepare for the unexpected - Unforeseen events could derail what you’re working to achieve. By preparing for the unexpected and building a strategy to address it, you’ll be better positioned to handle the inevitable bumps along the way.
9. Focus on what you can control - Base your decisions on time-tested investment principles such as diversifying your portfolio, owning quality investments and maintaining a long-term perspective.
10. Review your strategy regularly - The one constant you can expect is change. That’s why it’s so important that you and your financial professional review your strategy on a regular basis.
Think of your financial professional as your navigator on this journey. By working together to regularly review your strategy and make the adjustments you need, you can have a clearer picture of where you stand and what you need to do to help reach your goals.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial advisor.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR Robert E. Robinson
CONTRIBUTING Alley L. Biniarz
WRITERS Alysia Therrien
Jesse Ziter
Michael Seguin
Paula Just
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carol Garant
ART DIRECTOR Michael Pietrangelo
PRODUCTION George Sharpe
PHOTOGRAPHERS Heike Delmore
John Liviero
Nick Fancher
Javi Perez
Pam and Bill Seney
Paula Just
Matthew D’Asti
ADVERTISING SALES 519-979-9716 sales@windsorlife.com VICE PRESIDENT ADVERTISING SALES Charles Thompson 519-818-7352
ADVERTISING SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Leslie Campbell 519-567-0603
ADVERTISING SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sam Sinjari 519-567-3020
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 VOLUME 33, ISSUE 2 PROUDLY CANADIAN
WINDSOR LIFE MAGAZINE 318-5060 Tecumseh Road East Windsor, Ontario N8T 1C1 Tel: 519-979-5433
www.windsorlife.com
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound, commonly described as a ringing, buzzing, humming, or clicking in one or both ears, when no actual external noise is present. Tinnitus is a complex symptom related to the auditory system and brain, affecting about 37% of adult Canadians.
Tinnitus impacts everyone differently and can range from being a mild annoyance to severely debilitating. It can interfere with daily life by causing increased stress levels, sleep disruptions, difficulties concentrating and higher rates of depression. This can enhance tinnitus awareness, creating a vicious cycle.
Tinnitus is most often associ ated with age-related or noise-induced hearing loss but can also occur among individuals with normal hearing. Factors that can increase the risk of tinnitus include excessive earwax, some medications, and temporo mandibular joint disorder (TMJ), among other causes. Addressing your hearing along with a Tinnitus assessment can play a crucial role in managing your tinnitus and determining first steps in the treatment process.
of your tinnitus and focus on what matters the most to you. Also, within prescriptive hearing devices are sound therapy programs that can generate a specialized noise or relaxing sounds to help your brain place less importance on the internally-generated ones. For individuals with normal hearing, the use of noise machines, fans, and nature sounds can also help shift your attention away from the tinnitus, making it less noticeable. In addition, there are now cell-phone apps that can be used to help treat tinnitus and allow you to use them anywhere.
Other techniques like mindfulness meditation, counseling to help with coping strategies and relaxation exercises, can all help reduce the impact of tinnitus, as well as reducing caffeine intake, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting quality sleep.
Many different strategies can help make the noise in your ears less noticeable. Sound therapy is the most widely used approach to managing tinnitus. Imagine you are listening to an orchestra, composed of only a single violinist. The violin is very prominent and is the only sound that catches your attention. Now, add in other instruments like the clarinet, flute, and cello. The violin is still audible, but it is much more difficult to pick out amongst the orchestra.
Prescriptive technology, such as hearing devices, can be highly effective in reducing the perception of tinnitus as well as treating any hearing loss. By amplifying meaningful external sounds and introducing enriched sounds back to the brain, hearing aids can help you become less aware
At Sound Hearing Care, a tinnitus evaluation is specialized testing that goes beyond a basic ‘hearing test’. Tinnitus questionnaires are instrumental in determining the degree of impact that tinnitus has on an individual’s life. Specialized middle ear testing is completed. Tinnitus pitch and loudness can usually be pinpointed during audiometric testing, then documented. Extended high-frequency testing can also help discover auditory damage that might otherwise be missed. More detailed speech-innoise testing can also determine other effects caused by auditory damage. A trial of tinnitus treatment devices adjusted to your individual results and treatment goals can be completed in-office or at home.
Contact Sound Hearing Care to arrange your comprehensive tinnitus evaluation today!
Written by Autumn Benoot M.Cl.Sc., Audiology
Heike Delmore
PHOTO: JOHN LIVIERO
PHOTO: JAVI PEREZ
WEHBA ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF THE 2025 AWARDS OF DISTINCTION
The Windsor-Essex Home Builders’ Association (WEHBA) proudly announced the winners of the highly anticipated 2025 Awards of Distinction at a gala event celebrating excellence in the home building and renovation industry. This year’s awards recognize outstanding achievements across 23 categories, showcasing the dedication and innovation of WEHBA members. The 2025 Awards of Distinction shine a spotlight on the exceptional skill, innovation, and dedication of WEHBA members, from stunning renovations to innovative multiunit developments. The evening’s honourees exemplify the very best of Windsor-Essex’s home building and design community.
Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award: Mo Kolody
Builder of the Year:
HD Development Group
Energy Efficient Builder of the Year: BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd.
Sub Trade of the Year:
Cutting Edge Insulation Inc.
Supplier of the Year: Dimanti Countertops
Professional of the Year:
Jodi Mason, Urban Home Windsor
Member of the Year:
Brent Klundert, BK Cornerstone Design Build Ltd.
Outstanding Showroom, Design Centre or Sales Office: RE-Lighting Inc.
Outstanding Project Branding: Urban Home Windsor
Outstanding Marketing (Digital, Radio, or Print): Evola Builders
Outstanding New Home Build under 1700 sq ft Finished Space: HD Development Group
Outstanding New Home Build 1701-3000 sq ft Finished Space:
Brent Klundert
BK Cornerstone Design Build
Member of the Year
Presented by WEHBA Chair Norbert Bolger
Outstanding New Home Build over 3001 sq ft Finished Space: Evola Builders
Outstanding New Home Bathroom or Ensuite: HD Development Group
Outstanding New Home Kitchen: Evola Builders
Outstanding Renovation under $150,000: INDEX Design Studio
Outstanding Renovation over $151,000: Elevate2 Builders
Outstanding Kitchen Renovation: Wayne’s Custom Woodcraft
Outstanding Bathroom or Ensuite Renovation: Mastro Kitchen Studio
Outstanding Multi-Unit Residential Project up to 20 Units: Timberland Homes
Outstanding Multi-Unit Residential Project over 21 Units: Timberland Homes
Outstanding Customer Service / Sales Achievement:
Publisher’s Note
I can remember, as a kid, the winters we used to have. They seemed colder and more snow covered than what we have experienced of late. We had little snow in December and by the Holiday Season it was balmy and we were lulled into thinking that it would be another warm winter. Then 2026 came in and suddenly it all changed. As I write this, it is, to say the least, chilly. Okay, it is cold. We have had snow, it seems, every day and it is starting to be annoying. I just checked and we only see cold temperatures in the forecast. In fact, the highest temperature forecast for the upcoming week is -9˚C (17˚F). It seems that in most areas, all the way to Florida, it is cold. So, we can’t escape it. Now they are predicting a massive storm to arrive on Sunday. Time to cuddle up and ride it out.
Every edition of Windsor Life Magazine contains a Publisher’s Note. That means, for more than 30 years I have sat at my keyboard and wondered what I will write about.
I have always been a positive supporter of our area, and I will never change that. I always find it easy to be optimistic since there are so many positive things happening in our region.
Stellantis/Chrysler just added the third shift back to the Windsor Assembly Plant and they are going to need it. The new Charger has won numerous Car of The Year awards and is setting the bar very high in the automotive industry. I can only say that it once again proves the level of quality Windsor workers put into everything they build. It has taken generations to develop a workforce that consistently produces the best-selling product in the manufacturer’s lineup. To try to equal that reputation in another region would be next to impossible. I applaud the workers for the masterful job they do.
Among other stories in this issue, we profile Dr. Fouad Tayfour. His vision to open a private surgical facility in Windsor has grown into one of only four such facilities in Ontario licensed to do surgeries away from a hospital setting. Wait times for certain surgeries will be reduced from months to, in some cases, weeks. It is fully supported by OHIP, so patients do not have out-of-pocket expenses. A great addition for the region. It’s leaders and philanthropists like Dr. Tayfour that help make our community a great place to live.
Bob Robinson
CelebratingFamily Day
Family Day is a reminder of the people who keep us grounded, support us through life’s ups and downs, and yes, they occasionally keep us on our toes. Families, whether connected by blood, friendship, or community, are where core values are learned, traditions are shared, and lifelong bonds are formed.
Here in Windsor-Essex, our community is strengthened by families who look out for one another, lend a hand when it is needed, and understand that safe and strong neighbourhoods are built one relationship at a time.
Family Day gives us a chance to slow down and enjoy the simple moments, like getting together to share a meal, taking a walk, or spending time together without checking the clock.
Wishing you and your loved ones a warm, happy, and memorable Family Day.
With Warmest Regards,
Harb Gill, mp
BLACK MONTH HISTORY
Black History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the strength, resilience, and lasting contributions of Black Canadians.
In Windsor–Essex, this history is woven into the fabric of our community. Our region served as a gateway to freedom through the Underground Railroad, with communities like Sandwich and Amherstburg standing as enduring symbols of courage, faith, and perseverance.
This month is also a moment for reflection and learning. It gives us an opportunity to listen, to honour lived experiences, and to reaffirm the values that unite us as Canadians: hard work, personal responsibility, respect for one another, and a shared commitment to fairness and opportunity.
Windsor-Essex’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. By remembering our histories and standing together, we build stronger communities and a more united country for generations to come.
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
A Venerable Medical Visionary Looks
Toward
The
Future
For Windsor-Essex Healthcare
STORY BY JESSE ZITER
BY HEIKE DELMORE
WINDSOR LIFE CATCHES UP with the pioneering ophthalmologist to learn more about the new Windsor Surgical Centre, the “Windsor Model” for modern eye surgery, how a COVID-19 silver lining may get you a faster hip replacement, and how, after nearly four decades in Windsor, his most consequential work may still be ahead of him.
Dr. Fouad Tayfour, one of the most successful Windsorites in living memory, assures me he’s fine.
“I was fine before,” stresses Tayfour, best known as founder and medical director of the Windsor Laser Eye Institute (WLEI) but today discussing his role in the private Windsor Surgical Centre (WSC). “I’m blessed to have done very well financially from the beginning; to think that motivates me now is a misconception. I just love the city, and I want Windsor to have what it deserves.”
Since 1988, the Syrian-born eyecare expert has performed tens of thousands of LASIK procedures, pioneered multiple cataract surgeries, and built the most comprehensive and efficient ophthalmology program in Southwestern Ontario by recruiting subspecialists in oculoplastic, cornea, glaucoma and retinal surgery.
Increasingly, what Tayfour believes Windsor-Essex residents deserve is access to the greatest level of surgical care— both within and outside the traditional hospital system.
The WSC, which Tayfour co-owns with the ophthalmologist Dr. Barry Emara is a potentially transformative investment in out-of-hospital care in our region. Located at 10700 Tecumseh Road East in Windsor, the state-of-the-art facility hosts thousands of procedures every year via partnerships with Windsor Regional Hospital (WRH) and the Ontario Ministry of Health, freeing up scarce resources at the Hospital’s main campuses.
The WSC operates in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Quality-Based Procedures (QBP) and community surgical and diagnostic centres programs. The Ministry touts both arrangements as mechanisms for funding healthcare services outside traditional hospital settings in specific cases where patients can be treated effectively at better value for public money.
According to Tayfour, seeds for the QBP program—and so the WSC—began to germinate in 2020, when COVID-19 measures abruptly cancelled all elective procedures at WRH. Tayfour credits David Musyj, then the hospital’s president and CEO, for liaising with the Ministry of Health to secure special permission for WRH to relocate certain ophthalmology cases to the private Walker Road Facility that still houses the WLEI, as it wasn’t subject to the same lockdown restrictions. After a brief spell operating there, the WSC opened shop at its 12,000-square-foot eastside facility in 2022.
Today, QBP surgeries are administered across the province by local hospital networks (in our case, WRH) that effectively contract offsite operating rooms in private facilities. Tayfour-owned ophthalmology facilities in KitchenerWaterloo and Barrie participate in the program, hosting procedures via agreements with local hospitals using what he calls “the Windsor model.”
I just love the city, and I want Windsor to have what it deserves. “ ”
WE HAVE THE EXPERIENCE TO GET YOU MOVING!
In 2023, the WSC’s relationship with the Ministry evolved meaningfully as it was rechristened an Independent Health Facility (now a licensed community surgical centre). Unlike the QBP program, this newer scheme directly funds private facilities that perform low-risk, outpatient surgeries; care remains free to patients at the point of access through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
“We have a special license to perform cataract surgery with direct funding from the Ministry of Health,” says Tayfour, noting the arrangement has allowed for a 60-percent increase in patient care capacity, ratcheting wait times down to two weeks. “I am proud of this benchmark, and I dedicate my time to ensuring this is the standard of care across Ontario.”
In December, the Ministry made the WSC one of four private clinics in Ontario permitted to perform orthopedic surgeries— and the only such facility also licensed for ophthalmology. The WSC will host total knee and hip arthroplasties, life-changing procedures for which Windsor-Essex residents currently endure longer-than-average waits. The well-known surgeon Dr. Greg Jasey will lead its orthopedic team.
According to Tayfour, the Ministry intends for the WSC to accommodate 2,000 orthopedic procedures annually by 2027, which will require three to four dedicated operating rooms. An entirely new facility for orthopedic surgeries is in the planning stages.
According to many stakeholders—Tayfour, Emara, Musyj, and Jasey among them—the WSC’s model plainly works. “For any outpatient procedure, it’s much more economical to do it outside the hospital,” Tayfour explains, “because the Ministry saves costs associated with hospital buildings—like heating and cooling. For the medical care itself, the Ministry pays the same money for the same service.”
Moreover, in Tayfour’s words, the government scheme “releases pressure on hospitals,” freeing up space for more complex procedures with associated overnight stays. “We have the wait times we do because the hospitals are at capacity. If you give them room to do something different, that helps everybody. Hospitals should be for acute care: things that need to be done there.”
Because OHIP still foots the bill, WSC patients are referred by their primary care providers in the normal way and are simply given the facility address. The Ministry expects equivalent care, so patients need not choose between surgical sites.
Jessica Koper
Sheila MacKinnon
Frank Saroli
Andrea Thielk
Jacob Benson
Peter Hrastovec
Spenser Hsu
Mary-Ann Keefner
Donald Leschied
John Jedlinski
“Nobody would elect to go to the hospital, anyway,” Tayfour assures me. “The WSC is a beautiful facility, with tonnes of free parking. As a patient, you go in, have your surgery and go home.”
Tayfour expects this arrangement to hold even after Windsor-Essex’s long-gestating “mega-hospital” is up and running. In the medium term, he hopes the province will deliver a first-class facility capable of supporting the research needs of a full-fledged, independent medical school.
While Windsor has hosted a satellite campus of Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry since 2008, Tayfour has greater aspirations for the region. “Building an independent medical school here is my dream and my main drive,” he insists, stressing that ambitious medical specialists need to live and work in regions with elite teaching institutions. “Not for me—I don’t like teaching anyway—but so that the next generation of first-class specialists train, practice and become active members in Windsor.”
Until then, “Windsor-Essex remains an afterthought at the highest levels of medicine,” he laments. “Our system serves more than 400,000 people—not a small volume! If you go to Toronto, you can find a hospital that looks like the Four Seasons. We pay tonnes of taxes here, but we get nothing for it, comparatively. Why?”
It is hard to say Tayfour, a major regional philanthropist, hasn’t done his part to change the status quo. Through his Tayfour Family Foundation, bolstered by generous contributions from Emara, he has invested millions of dollars to sustain and advance healthcare-related research.
If Tayfour is at all consumed by the breadth of his intra-provincial portfolio, he doesn’t give it away. Most days, he commits to a neat eight-hour shift in the surgical suite at the WSC, completing 40 to 50 procedures before 3:30 p.m. (The industry average, he tells me, is about 20 cases per day).
“To succeed, you need to have a good team and know how to delegate,” he explains. “I have the vision, but I have good people around me. They take it from there.
“My easiest days are when I’m in doing surgery,” Tayfour continues. “In the office, you have to talk too much. I enjoy what I do, and I am still the best at it, regardless of what anybody will tell you.”
He pauses, just long enough for a smile to form at the corners of his mouth: “It’s not actually work, treating people. I have more free time than anybody.” WLM
Victory Reproductive Care’s Approach to Holistic Fertility Treatments
The fertility journey is a complex and deeply personal experience, where physical, emotional and mental well-being are closely interconnected. At Victory Reproductive Care (VRC), fertility treatment is approached through an integrated, clinically grounded, holistic model. By bringing together multiple specialties under one roof, the clinic offers care that complements its core treatments and guides patients holistically throughout their path to parenthood.
Supporting fertility from within: naturopathic care
At VRC, naturopathic medicine plays a key role in supporting reproductive health. Dr. Jennifer Strong, a licensed naturopathic doctor, focuses on optimizing the body’s function to assist fertility outcomes.
“Because the body works as a whole, we look at how we can support health concerns from a big-picture perspective,” she says.
Nutrition is often the starting point, with a focus on whole foods and targeted nutrients. “We prioritize obtaining nutrients from food sources whenever possible,” Dr. Strong says. “When intake isn’t sufficient, we consider supplementation and/or vitamin drops.”
In addition to nutrition, Dr. Strong incorporates acupuncture into treatment plans. “Acupuncture improves circulation to the reproductive organs and calms the nervous system. This means more nutrients to the area and elimination of metabolic waste,” she explains.
The role of pelvic health in reproductive well-being
Pelvic health physiotherapy is another essential pillar of VRC’s holistic care model, led by registered physiotherapist Kesha Petrolwala of Sorella Women’s Wellness. She works closely with patients experiencing conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, chronic pelvic pain and related pelvic floor dysfunction. “These conditions can impact how the pelvic floor muscles function and contribute to pain and discomfort,” Kesha explains.
Her approach focuses on assessing whether pelvic floor muscles require relaxation or strengthening, while also addressing the nervous system’s response to stress and emotions associated with infertility. “We focus on teaching patients relaxation strategies and pain-management techniques,” she says. “It’s a true biopsychosocial approach—we treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.”
Emotional care is a foundation for fertility VRC’s services also include emotional and psychological support from Darcy Thachuk, a reproductive counselor and social worker with over 30 years of experience. “Our culture is that no one walks alone on their journey,” Darcy says. “Whatever the patients need, I am beside them.”
Her counseling method is trauma-informed and highly individualized, shaped by each patient’s culture, religion and lived experiences. “Providing guidance can be very helpful in dealing with the complexities of emotions. My support provides emotional care and practical coping strategies to help navigate the complex and often overwhelming journey of infertility.”
Counseling also provides a safe space for emotional expression. “Infertility grief, anxiety and depression can feel invisible, but they are very real,” Darcy adds. “We want people to know that they can express their emotions safely and learn how to advocate for their needs throughout the process.”
VRC Operational Goal
Together, the professionals work closely within VRC’s integrated team, ensuring patients receive complementary and coordinated support. “When we approach fertility care by treating the whole person rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, we create the conditions for stronger, more sustainable outcomes,” explains Lisa Hogan, Director of Operations at VRC. “By integrating emotional well-being, lifestyle factors and individualized medical care, holistic treatment empowers patients, supports their overall health and enhances the effectiveness of fertility interventions. This comprehensive perspective not only nurtures the body, but also the mind and spirit—ultimately leading to more positive and successful fertility journeys.”
For clinic addresses, phone numbers, or to book a consultation, visit www.drvictory.com. Or reach out to the professionals directly:
Darcy Thachuk, BA(Psych), BSW, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist darcythachukmsw@gmail.com
Kesha Petrolwala, RPT keshap.sorella@gmail.com
Jennifer Strong BSc, ND drjen@windsornaturopath.com
Laura Jasmin laurajasminnd@gmail.com
Darcy Thachuk, BA(Psych), BSW, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist, Jennifer Strong BSc, ND and Kesha Petrolwala, RPT
CROATIA
Historic Architecture, Stunning Blue Water and Charming Cobblestone Streets
STORY BY ALLEY L. BINIARZ / PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL AND PAM SENEY
WITH ITS CRYSTALINE
blue waters, cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture, no ifs-ands-or-buts, Pam and Bill Seney would go back to Croatia in a heartbeat. The couple has visited many scenic ports during their 38 years of travel but if there was one word they could use to describe Croatia it would be “spectacular”. Everything has that certain twinkle and charm when you’re there: the Adriatic Sea sparkles, the local beer is crisp and the seasonal food is just that, spectacular.
Pam and Bill visited three spots along their cruise around Croatia and the place worthy of starting with, they say, is Dubrovnik. This city was their favourite from the moment they got off the ship. The two got onto the cable car and as per their usual, they took to the highest point of the city: Mount Srd. “We try to get to the highest point to get the view of the village, mountains and ocean. This is where you can see it all,” Bill says. They got a fantastic view of the walled city and surrounding area. The day was hot, but it was tempered by having a nice cold beer at the restaurant up top while they admired the view for half an hour.
Clockwise from left: Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srd.; view of the Adriatic Sea scenic waterfront from the wall, Dubrovnik; Pam and Bill on the steps at Lvxor Cafe, Dubrovnik; view of the old town and the Great Onofrio Fountain from the city wall, Dubrovnik; Croatian folk dancers in the Republic Square, Split; Revelin bridge and Pile Gate connecting to the Revelin Fortress/the Old Town, Dubrovnik.
SOME FAMILY TRADITIONS BEGIN WITH AN ENDING
Strong families build strong communities.
“The best part about seeing the town from above is that once you go back down, you know where you’re going and what you want to see,” Pam adds.
They had the aerial map in mind when they took to the cobbled streets below to get a closer look at the old wall as it juts out to the ocean and encases the old city. The two walked the entire old city wall and recommend any visitors do the same. “It takes about two hours but it’s worth every inch and step. You’ll see everything,” Pam says. They also took in the old churches, the castle and guard tower, restaurants and shops along their walk. “I would put it up there on any city in the world,” Bill says. “Definitely in my top 10 for the natural beauty, the culture, the experience and the friendliness.” The two quite enjoyed frequenting restaurants along the marina and harbour front; it brought a relaxed setting that allowed them to simply sit and take in the stunning view around them.
The two recounted the second favourite stop: Split. Split shares many of the gorgeous attributes of Dubrovnik and many of their beloved spots along the Adriatic Sea. The best part of Split is walking along the water for a few miles to take in the harbour front, they say. “And the beaches,” Pam adds about the famous Croatian beaches. “We hired a taxi to take us around to see five beaches and he took us to a real high point to get a view of the mountainous area and surrounding city. Bill even went swimming in the warm water!”
When they travel, they’re really trying to get a perspective of how the locals live there, Bill says. The old town provides that, along with taking in the ancient part of the culture. Going into Split’s old town, like many old cities, you need to pass through an archway. It’s like going through a type of door into another world with little streets that feel more like narrow walkways. Here is where Pam and Bill saw the Marko Marulić Square or fruit market. “In most of Europe you get to see these bustling markets that are busy every day. People here don’t want frozen food, they want it fresh, so they go daily,” Bill says.
In the people’s square, they had planned to have a glass of wine at the Lvxor Cafe and Restaurant in the centre court in the Diocletian Palace. Like many others they’ve seen in photos, the two sat on these beautiful 1700-year-old stone steps, lined with red cushions, along this palace where waiters came to serve up the best regional wines. “When you’re sitting there, you’re staring
Elevated Retirement Living
at history through the Bell Tower at Saint Dominus Cathedral and the centurion soldiers still in their costumes,” she says. “We were just there, taking in the beautiful stone lanes, the ancient architecture that’s there and having a glass of wine amidst it all.”
A short walk from there is the rotunda or atrium; Bill explains that it’s not technically an amphitheatre, however they have singers in there every day. The shape of the structure makes for outstanding acoustics, and he and Pam would go in there and listen. They were astounded at how the entirely stone circular room encased and amplified the sound - the only place it could go was up through the natural opening towards the sky.
The highlight of their third stop, Rijeka, was going to Trsat Castle and of course they had to climb up to the top. The castle is on a hill 138 m above sea level and dominates Rijeka as it hovers over the town. To get there, they needed to climb the Peter Kruzic stairway which was constructed in 1531 and has 538 steps that lead up to the castle. Pam and Bill climbed each one and said it was absolutely worth the beauty. “How do you beat beautiful architecture, markets, churches, mountains and the ocean?” Bill says.
When they headed down, they went over to St. Vitus Cathedral and were able to see the old war tunnels built beside it. One tunnel is 330 m long, 10 m deep underground and was dug from 1939 to 1942 by the Italian military to protect the civilians from aerial bombings. Pam and Bill walked through part of the tunnel and were amazed at the “natural AC” function of the cool earth that provided a break from the heat above.
Like in all the cities they visit, the Seneys like to go where the people are and so they took off to Korzo Street in the old town. To access the area, they needed to walk under the large clock tower through another 1215 m tunnel before reaching the pedestrian only area. Bill says he gets a kick out of this every time they visit Europe. The restaurants were all nestled in the middle of the street and they could walk on either side of them, which Pam felt was charming and parklike.
Although they tried to capture all the spectacular areas they witnessed, they say pictures and words can’t do the Croatian scenery justice. Pam and Bill say that Croatia is a must-see in person and to make time to just stop and rest to fully take in all the surrounding beauty it has to offer.
If you think pole barns are just for farms and farm equipment, think again.
At James Sylvestre Enterprises, we’ve custom-built barns for movie studios, hobby studios, car collectors, and the ever-popular Barndominium.
Because people who can afford expensive hobbies know quality when they see it.
In fact, there’s any number of high end manufacturers you can go to for your horsepower, but there’s only one builder to go to for a barn to house it:
James Sylvestre Enterprises
I’m Jeff Sylvestre, and I believe a custom-built barn should be as much of a work of art as anything you could store in it. So that’s the way we build them. And we’d love to build one for you.
BLUE STONES THE
Local Rock Band Shares Their Journey to Global Success and the Show That’s Bringing Them Home
STORY BY ALYSIA THERRIEN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK FANCHER AND JAVI PEREZ
LOCAL MUSICIANS Tarek Jafar and Justin Tessier have been on a mission for over fifteen years now to create and perform the music they want to hear in the world. The pair, who met in high school, began collaborating during casual garage and basement jam sessions creating songs just for fun. A couple-of-times-a-week type of commitment ended up becoming a global sensation, as the duo has toured extensively over the last five years.
Before their global evolution, the duo’s roots were firmly planted in their hometown of Windsor, where they began performing in local downtown bars. With Tarek on guitar and vocals and Justin on drums and backups, their chemistry was so seamless that they quickly realized a full band wasn’t necessary and they could carry the sound as a powerful two-piece. Their first official downtown show was played for friends and family only, but it ended up leaving them to wonder what might come next.
Cut to their first studio sessions and the recording of their first EP back in 2011. Now, the duo has
Left: The Blue Stones are Justin Tessier (left) and Tarek Jafar. Photo by Nick Fancher. Above: Tarek connects with audience members while performing at The Independent in San Francisco. Photo by Javi Perez.
Right: Justin drumming at The Gothic Theatre in Denver, Colorado.
Photo by Javi Perez.
four albums, two EPs and multiple singles. They’ve been nominated three times for a Juno award, once for Breakthrough Artist of The Year, and twice for Rock Album of The Year. This Windsor born rock band is continuously touring across North America and Europe. On March 27th, you’ll find them opening for Collective Soul right here in Windsor on our very own Colosseum Stage. Because of their international success, it was a no-brainer that the pair should open for this famous American rock band.
Interestingly enough, this is not their first time gigging with Collective Soul. “We played with them during a festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina,” says Justin. Tarek explains the re-pairing was thanks to their agents, as they were the ones who informed them that Collective Soul just happens to be playing in their hometown. “The show will be our first proper show in Windsor since 2022,” says Tarek, “it will be a really nice homecoming and a nice way to cap off the Metro Tour.”
Justin and Tarek’s newest album, Metro, dropped in early 2025. They quickly set out for their first round of touring the album in April, which brought them to cities throughout North America. Some top favourite venues were located in cities such as Chicago, Seattle and Vancouver. The second half of their tour kicked off in February this year, which is taking them across the UK and Europe as they go global.
The duo is thrilled about their 4th studio album because it is the first record they created for themselves. “It’s our first record since being an independent duo releasing on a label that we created,” says Tarek. The artist’s freedom allowed The Blue Stones to make this album personal and unique, in a way they’ve always wanted.
Their new independent label, New Weapon Records, launched in 2024. Fans may recognize the name from one of their original song lyrics, and the entire METRO album was released under this label. “Since we own it, we were able to tailor the release plan, marketing, visuals, and single choices exactly to our liking,” says Tarek. The Blue Stones finally have the freedom to release their music directly to their fans, without the need for a “middleman”.
The entire album was recorded in Los Angeles. It is a semi-concept album, as Justin explains, and he continues by sharing how, “it’s written from the perspective of an individual who is taking a very long subway ride in a near future dystopian universe.”
Actual Project
Eric LaMarre, Owner
SanctuaryTransform Your Waterfront into a
The story is told live on stage through the performance, so as a result, “It’s more than just a band playing a show,” Justin confirms. “The dark and gritty concept has been fun to bring to life,” says The Blue Stones, and Windsor patrons will soon get a sneak peak of that story!
The Blue Stones receive a lot of love locally, but it is nothing compared to the large city centres across the globe. “When we do shows in Detroit a lot Windsor people will come to see us, plus our Detroit audience, but it doesn’t always happen the other way around,” explains Tarek. The two of them admit they’d love to do more local shows, but the venue options are a bit limited. “There are a lot of smaller-cap venues in Windsor,” says Justin, “but there isn’t really a space that caters to bands ready to step into that 1,200 to 2,000 or more capacity room.” With the Colosseum being the only venue in the city able to match The Blue Stones’ production scale and their first show back home in years is set to be nothing short of epic.
Ahead of hitting the road, the rock duo has been putting in serious studio time in Kingston. The tour may be the main focus right now, but they’re also deep in the recording process, gearing up for new music in 2026 and more touring beyond.
Between making a conscious effort to maintain their work-life balance and life on the road, The Blue Stones treat touring like running a small business day-to-day even when they’re home. Their six-week stints on the road require constant planning and content creation, with the tour crew fully coming along on the bus. The crew includes Justin overseeing sound reproduction, a lighting designer/technician, stage and backline technicians, a merch manager handling sales, and an increasingly essential videographer who captures every moment. Each role plays a key part in keeping the operation running smoothly, while the band continues to grow their reach and impact. “It’s a full-time effort,” says Tarek, “when we are off tour it’s nice to dive into our own endeavours, but we are always thinking: what is happening next for The Blue Stones?”
For the latest tours, new music and everything happening with these Windsorite rockers, follow them on their Instagram page @thebluestones. Be sure to check out their webpage at thebluestonesmusic.com to shop their one-of-a-kind merch or join their mailing list to receive exclusive updates.
Look Who’s Cooking At Home
Renaldo Agostino
Councillor, City of Windsor
COUNCILLOR RENALDO AGOSTINO came to Downtown Windsor from the city of Toronto in the early 90s with his twin brother Remo. Since then, he has owned or operated many successful businesses in the core. He has organized and produced some of the largest community events in Windsor, including Jurassic Park Windsor during the Raptors championship run, along with multiple concerts at Festival Plaza and events at Caesars Windsor. Renaldo has been and will continue to be the ultimate advocate for Downtown Windsor.
Renaldo graduated from The University of Windsor with a bachelor of arts in communication studies and attended St. Clair College’s advertising program. He spends time as a volunteer coach and volunteer executive director at Border City Boxing Club on Drouillard Road where he trains champions and mentors Windsor’s youth. Renaldo’s focus for this term is the safety and the prosperity of Downtown Windsor. He loves and believes in this city, in its people and especially in Downtown Windsor.
The sugo tells you when it’s ready.
”
NONNA’S SUGO
Sugo, a quintessential Italian tomato sauce, is commonly referred to as Sunday Sauce. This recipe for sugo sauce is simmered low and slow to concentrate the tomato flavour and seasonings.
Ingredients:
• A good pour of olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped small
• 1 carrot, chopped small
• 1 rib of celery, chopped small
• 2 cloves of garlic, lightly crushed
• Ground beef (about a handful per person)
Instructions:
• Italian spicy sausage, casings removed
• Passata di pomodoro (enough to cover the meat well)
• A spoon or two of tomato paste
• Salt, as needed
• A tiny pinch of dried oregano
• Fresh basil, only fresh
Put a large pot on the stove and add a good pour of olive oil. Let it warm gently—not too hot.
Add the onion, carrot and celery. Cook slowly, stirring often, until everything is soft and smells sweet. This is important—don’t rush it.
Add the garlic and let it warm in the oil just until you smell it. If it starts to brown, take it out.
Add the meat and sausage. Break it up with your spoon and let it cook gently. Add a little salt. When it loses the raw colour and starts to cook properly, you’re ready.
Add the tomato paste and stir it through the meat. Let it cook for a minute—this gives it flavour.
Now add the passata. Enough so the sugo looks generous, not dry. Stir well.
Lower the heat so it barely bubbles. Add a tiny pinch of oregano if you like, and a few fresh basil leaves if you have them.
Let it cook slowly for a few hours. Stir once in a while, especially along the bottom. The sugo should reduce and become thick and rich. If it cooks too fast, lower the heat—sugo should never rush.
Taste near the end and add salt only if it needs it.
Serve with pasta that holds the sugo—tagliatelle, rigatoni, or whatever is in the cupboard; always with fresh grated Parmigiano.
NEW AND NOTICED
RECORD SETTING SLEIGHING HUNGER CONCERTS
In collaboration with St. Clair College, St. Clair Alumni and LiUNA!625, a record setting $123,000 was raised for Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent food banks through two sold-out Sleighing Hunger concerts performed by The S’Aints Band at the Chrysler Theatre. The funds help to provide essential support throughout the holidays and into the New Year. This number represents a new record donation from the annual concert. At the cheque presentation were Mike Silvaggi (St. Clair College President), June Muir (CEO, Unemployed Help Centre Hub of Opportunities), Jeff Burrows (Drummer, S’Aints band), Brenda LeClair (Executive Director, Chatham Outreach for Hunger) and Joe D’Angela (Senior Director of Campus Partnerships, St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, Advancement).
LASALLE’S FIRST MCDONALD’S OPENS
The first McDonald’s in LaSalle at 2301 Sandwich West Parkway celebrated its grand opening on December 4 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Included were local dignitaries and a fundraiser with 10% of the proceeds from food and beverage sales being donated in support of Ronald McDonald House Windsor. In attendance were LaSalle Councillor Jeff Renaud, Councillor Anita Riccio-Spagnuolo, Scott D’Amore—President The D’Amore Group, Mayor Crystal Meloche, Jason Trussell—Owner Operator, Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata and Councillor Mike Seguin.
HOCKEY FOR HOSPICE RAISES RECORD-BREAKING $611,237
Thanks to the dedication and fundraising efforts of nearly 2,000 young hockey players, this year’s Hockey For Hospice Tournament, held December 27/28/29 at four different arenas across the region raised an impressive $611,237. The grand total raised over the past 29 years of this event now stands at an impressive $6,443,676.00, showcasing the enduring impact of Hockey For Hospice in supporting the vital work of The Hospice. HockeyForHospice.com
ST. CLAIR SIGNS BOUCHAT AS MEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH
The St. Clair College Athletics and Recreation Department recently announced that Tristan Bouchat has been named the successful candidate as the new Varsity Men’s Baseball Head Coach. Bouchat stated “I am truly honoured to step into the role of Head Coach for the St. Clair Men’s Baseball team and excited by the opportunity to lead such a dedicated group of student-athletes. Together we will continue building a winning culture both on and off the field while competing for OCAA Championships every season.” saintsathletics.ca
ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY
Wake up rested. Live without pain.
Proud Assumption University alumnus and friend, Dr. Dan Andreae presented a gift of $250,000.00 to fund a series of new undergraduate courses, including AI and Ethics, Science and Religion, the Abrahamic Faiths, and the Holocaust. The courses will be offered in collaboration with our federated partner, the University of Windsor, allowing students from both Assumption and the University of Windsor to take these courses for credit beginning in the Fall 2026 semester. Present were Dr. J.J. McMurtry (Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of Windsor), Dr. Dan Andreae and Dr. John Cappucci (Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Assumption University). assumptionu.ca 141 Main Street East, Kingsville 519-733-8888
PLUMP AUTO SERVICE OPENS IN WINDSOR
Certified Automotive Technician, Joey Piach, has opened Plump Auto Service at 4530 Rhodes Drive in Windsor offering both dependable auto service and cutting-edge fabrication. Blending precision craftsmanship with forward-thinking innovation, his facility is more than a traditional repair shop—it’s a hub for automotive research, custom fabrication and intelligent engineering. plumpautomotive.com
Trusted by healthcare professionals... for their patients and for themselves.
Give yourself or your loved one the gift of better sleep comfort, and health this season.
We Focus in treating the root causes of:
• TMJ pain & headaches
• Sleep apnea & snoring
• Jaw tension & facial pain
• Pediatric issue: poor attention, bedwetting issues, restless sleep
Discover an opportunity to heal your body naturally.
info@tmjsleeptherapy.ca www.tmjsleeptherapy.ca
Wonderland WINTER
Adam Mailloux Invents A New Way to Celebrate the Season
STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE SHARPE
ONE WINDSORITE has made his own personal winter wonderland.
As with many of us, Adam Mailloux wears many hats throughout the week. During the workday, he’s the Owner of A.L.M. Oil. On weekends, he’s an avid alpine skier. And every day, he’s a devoted husband and father to two young boys.
And most recently, he’s become Windsor’s newest inventor.
Clockwise from right: A fort constructed in the Mailloux backyard; Adam Mailloux’s snow machine, mounted on a ladder; Adam Mailloux, Owner of A.L.M. Oil and snow machine builder.
“I’ve always been working on machines, ever since I was a kid,” Adam states. “I’ve always tried to fix vehicles on my own. At least until I need to throw up the white flag and call in the professionals!”
As the previous years have deprived his sons of a white Christmas, Adam decided to take matters into his own hands. Taking inspiration from the snow-making machines and cooling towers, he saw at places like Boler Mountain, he set about adapting the technology for his own personal use.
“I asked one of the workers there how the machines worked,” Adam explains. “And they basically told me all the ingredients I’d need: water, compressed air and a pressure-washer-style unit. Then I started wracking my brain about how I could use the technology in my own backyard.”
Like many budding enthusiasts with a newfound passion, Adam discovered a Facebook group that was all too willing to provide him with information.
“From there, I built a prototype,” Adam states. “I made a lot of snow for my boys in the backyard that first winter. But there were still some kinks to massage out! Fortunately, once you get right down to it, it’s quite a simple setup! And there’s lots of resources online that are available to everyone.”
One of such resources is Snow State. The website contains a link to the right nozzle for anyone’s setup. It also provides the necessary information to achieve perfect results.
“The website also features a calculator,” Adam explains. “And there’s a whole formula you need to solve in order to find the right nozzle for your own rig. But once I found the right attachment, making snow became so much easier! It helped us achieve a far better quality of snow.”
Another variable Adam had to account for—and one that he cautions every fellow enthusiast to be aware of—is the role wind plays in snowmaking.
“There are always factors to account for,” Adam states. “If it’s a windy day, your snow might travel hundreds and hundreds of feet away! So, you always need to be careful with how you set up your system so that the elements don’t take all your snow away. And remember that just because it’s below freezing that doesn’t necessarily mean that you can always safely make snow.”
Adam mentions a weather term for all of us to be wary of “wet-bulb temperature”. That is to say, the lowest temperature the air can reach through
“If the humidity is too high, all you’ll make is water or ice,” Adam explains. “Even if the weather is actually below zero. As well, the bottom nozzle in the attachment utilizes something called nucleation—which is basically where the water and air are mixed. That’s where your super-freeze effects kick on. The water always has to be cold in order to form into snow. But all this information is available on the website I mentioned earlier!”
Another resource Adam found indispensable is the Snowmaking app, which is available for all Apple devices. The app provides a range of factors—including temperature, dewpoint, humidity and wet bulb levels—which can help one determine if the weather is ideal for running their own snowmaking machines.
Regardless of the hurdles along the way, Adam debuted his latest model this winter to roaring success. Since then, passing friends and neighbors might recognize the sounds of laughter emanating from the Mailloux residence.
“My boys absolutely love it!” Adam stresses. “It’s been so rewarding, watching them enjoy the kind of things I used to when I was their age. We’re always building forts and snowmen. We even make walls and have these elaborate snowball fights!”
Adam continues to embody the festive spirit. He’s more than willing to help his fellow tinkerers develop the same machinery for their own use. He routinely shares information on his own personal Facebook page.
“You don’t need a huge power washer or air compressor to do this,” Adam stresses. “You can build your system with whatever you have. If you do it correctly, it can be relatively inexpensive. And remember to be patient! There’s going to be some curveballs and hiccups along the way. But as long as you source the parts correctly, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.”
Most significantly, Adam has even offered to help his friends and neighbors find the right tools for their own machines.
Adam explains, “It’s really warmed my heart watching my boys get so much enjoyment out of this machine. I’d love for other parents and families to experience the same thing.”
Regardless, one can take comfort in knowing that while the elements might sometimes now allow us to experience a true white Christmas (or after), with the right tools and ingenuity we can all still enjoy a true winter wonderland.
BON APP ETIT!
dining & nightlife guide
Antonino’s Original Pizza - LaSalle, South Windsor, Riverside, Tecumseh, Leamington. Multiple-award winning pizza with the money back guarantee! Fresh salads & authentic Sicilian Cannoli that even your Nonna will love! Google our menu. originalpizza.ca
The Bourbon Tap & Grill - Home of live music 3-6 nights a week. Signature thin crust wood-fired pizza, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, wings and more. Open for lunch, family friendly. Big screens to watch the game. 1199 Ottawa St., 12049 Tecumseh Rd. East, and in Belle River at 405 Notre Dame.
Cramdon’s Tap and Eatery - South Windsor’s friendly gathering place. Offering great food at affordable prices. Satellite sports and billiards in a pub-like setting.
www.cramdons.com
2950 Dougall Ave. 519-966-1228
Erie St GastroPub - Located in the heart of Little Italy, this hidden gem offers elevated pub fare and a scrumptious Asian-fusion menu. The bar features local Ontario wines, a constantly rotating craft beer menu, handcrafted cocktails as well as alcohol infused ice cream. ErieStGastroPub.com
839 Erie Street, Windsor. 519-252-3743
Factory House Sports Bar - Windsors newly renovated sports bar. We can tell you one thing; you don’t want to go anywhere else. 28 HDTVs, delicious home cooked meals; daily drink and food features. The perfect sport to catch any game, with game sound.
5240 Tecumseh Rd E. Windsor 519-915-8224
Harbour House - Featuring fresh, locally inspired seafood, Windsor’s best daily happy hour from 2–5 and 9–close, the city’s largest waterfront patio, and regular live entertainment for guests to enjoy.
9550 Riverside Drive East. 226-620-0101 harbourhousewindsor.com
Legends Sports Bar - Big screen action and great food hot off the grill. At this ultimate sports den, fans won’t miss a second of sports action with dozens of high-tech displays everywhere you look, plenty of comfortable seating and the longest sports ticker around. Inside Caesars Windsor. 1-800-991-7777
377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor. s
University of Windsor President J.J. McMurtry (Team Blue) and Chancellor Dwight Duncan (Team Gold) are going head-to-head in a spirited campus rivalry to see who can inspire the most support for student scholarships.
President McMurtry’s Blue Scholarships invest in tomorrow’s leaders, opening doors for students to explore, innovate and reach their full potential.
Chancellor Duncan’s Gold Scholarships support future leaders and help students access life changing opportunities.
Every gift counts and every student wins. Pick your team. Power their future. Visit uwindsor.ca/supportuwindsor.
519-567-0603 lcampbell@windsorlife.com
Nauti V’s Oyster Bar - The first of its kind, Nauti V’s is more than just an oyster bar! From premium meats to oysters to the freshest seafood including halibut and barramundi, pair one with a perfectly curated wine list. Nauti V’s accepts private parties.
1850 Wyandotte St E. Windsor 519-915-1166
Neros Steakhouse - Indulge in the finer things in life at Neros where modern upscale dining meets traditional steakhouse fare. Fresh, local ingredients, an incredible wine selection and superb service. OpenTable.ca 1-800-991-7777 ext. 22481.
O’Maggio’s Kildare House - A Windsor staple, an old Irish pub built in 1880. Multi-award winning Halibut Fish & chips, Hand Packed Burgers, and hearty entrees like the Guinness Beef Stew and chicken pot pie. Plus, 25 beers on tap. 519-915-1066
1880 Wyandotte St E, Windsor
Original Guys Pizza Pies - The “Windsor style” thin crust pizza skillfully rolled and hand tossed is cooked to perfection in a stone baked oven. With vegetarian and vegan options, pizzas are tailored to each customer’s individual taste. Also offering wings, salads and subs. ogpizza.ca
3335 Banwell Rd., Windsor. 519-979-8808.
Ortona 1864 Cafe & Panino - Freshly renovated cafe & panino bar. Breakfast offered every day at 8AM. Enjoy our menu featuring the Italian Benny, Porchetta Thursdays, Iced Matcha Lattes and fresh paninis made right in front of you!
1864 Wyandotte St E. Windsor 226-674-0500
Twigg’s Bar + Grill - Family oriented local establishment offering freshly prepared pubfare. We take pride in providing prompt service in a unique atmosphere with craft beer, specialty cocktails, daily specials, live entertainment, catering and more.
1207 County Rd 22, Emeryville 519-727-8704. www.twiggsbarandgrill.com
Vito’s Pizzeria - Rustic Italian restaurant serving wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, veal, chicken, grilled steaks and seafood. Wonderful wine selection. Private party spaces. Food truck and portable pizza oven for offsite catering. catering@vitospizzeria.com 1731 Wyandotte St. E., Windsor. 519-915-6145.
For information on listings and advertising in Bon Appetit! please call Leslie Campbell at 519-567-0603.
CHALLENGES OF TOMORROW
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE CELEBRATES MILESTONE
STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW D’ASTI
THINK ABOUT YOUR SAFEST PLACE. A place where you can take shelter from the outside world. Where you can be your most exposed, you’re most vulnerable. Where you can hide, rest and recharge for the next day’s challenges. Where all the trials and tribulations simply cannot reach you.
If you’re like most of us, then that safe space is your own bed.
It might surprise you to learn just how many of our friends and neighbors do not have their own bed to crawl into at the end of the day. Research shows that approximately 3% of the population of Windsor and Essex County are sleeping in less-than-ideal conditions. Even more tragically, it might surprise you to learn just how many children that statistic encompasses.
Fortunately, this is what Brian Cyncora—the President of the Windsor chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace—is seeking to rectify.
“A bed is not just a piece of furniture,” Brian explains. “A good night’s sleep is essential for a child’s development. It’s not just about providing them with a safe place to call their own, or even a comfortable spot to read a book or do their homework. It’s about giving them the ability to wake up refreshed and ready to handle the challenges of tomorrow.”
The Windsor chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace was first developed during the tumultuous months of 2020. When presented with a small window to visit his ailing father during the lockdown, Brian and his wife Terry took a fateful trip to Winnipeg. While there, they visited with
Clockwise from top: One of the many beds constructed by the Windsor chapter of Sleep In Heavenly Peace; Brian Cyncora and his wife Terry; Previous Secretary of CUPE Local 27 Dan MacNeil, current Secretary of CUPE Local 27 Tom Hughes and the Cyncoras; another donation ready to be delivered.
some former colleagues on the police service who were running Sleep in Heavenly Peace’s second Canadian chapter.
“They explained their mission and their cause,” Brian recalls. “I thought it was just remarkable. Then when we returned home, I attended a leadership meeting where I heard the story of the Allen family. They were six local children who’d just lost their parents. All they had was a trash bag full of clothes. They needed everything, including beds.”
Spurred by what he’d learned from his friends in Winnipeg, Brian immediately volunteered his services.
“I called Luke Mickleson, who founded the organization in 2012 after seeing a bedless child in his own community,” Brian explains. “At the time, we didn’t have anything. We didn’t have so much as a tool to our name. Fortunately, the chapter in Michigan was kind enough to donate six beds for our initial efforts. That was what first got us started. But seeing as how we were still under COVID restrictions, Terry and I spent months amassing everything we’d need to start production once the lockdown ended.”
Almost a year later—in July 2021—the Cyncora started building in earnest. They began in their own backyard with a small team of six. Now, they’ve acquired their own workshop and a bustling network of over 45 volunteers. They even run numerous programs, including a high school program within the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board Construction Academies where children can build beds for children in need.
“These events are a great way to strengthen our community,” Brian states. “While we could just sequester ourselves and keep churning out these beds, that’s not the real mission. Ending childhood bedlessness can only be achieved by engaging our entire community. We need to give everyone a chance to be part of the solution. That’s where our bed-building workshops come in.”
Sleep in Heavenly Peace regularly hosts such events, where anyone and everyone can come to their workshop and learn how to build a bed with their own two hands.
“On any given day, we might get 28 members of a group to come out and put their knuckles to the grindstone,” Brian explains. “We’ve had all kinds of people show up—from firefighters to consulting firms. They’ll come into our assembly-line setting and our team will mentor them on the process. They’ll sand, drill, and put everything together. Then we’ll stain them all
Michael Campoli owner
Steven Caruso sales manager
and send each into our inventory. Within a couple weeks, they’ll be sent directly to the families in need.”
Even more remarkably, Sleep in Heavenly Peace handles both the screening process and the delivery of these same beds.
“You see firsthand the difference it makes when we arrive with the bed,” Brian states. “Another thing we’ve discovered is that we’re not just helping the children, we’re helping the parents who can’t provide for their kids. You can see it on their faces when we pull up with our trucks. These parents get to feel as though they’re providing for their children. There’s this tremendous sense that we’re uplifting the entire family.”
Each bed kit costs about $450.00. Each handmade bed is accompanied with a bedding package that includes a twin sized mattress, a set of sheets, a comforter and a pillow. Sleep in Heavenly Peace incurs all the costs associated with manufacturing, shipping and installing a bed in a child’s home.
Last year, they hit their one thousandth bed milestone—a tremendous accomplishment both for their small team and the community as a whole. Meaning, that together, Sleep in Heavenly Peace and Windsor has invested $450,000.00 into ending childhood bedlessness.
To celebrate this milestone, on December 22nd, Sleep in Heavenly Peace held an event at the old Windsor Tool & Dye shop on Kildare Road. There, those in attendance were invited to sign the actual 1000th bed frame.
“It was so cool to see the community come out and celebrate with us,” Brian states. “It was incredible watching them rally behind us. That sendoff was so incredible to be a part of.”
Despite these accomplishments, Brian stresses that there is still work to be done.
“We’re so thankful for our community and their efforts,” Brian explains. “We’re so happy we were able to hit this milestone. But there’s still much more to do! We have about a hundred kids waiting for beds in our queue. We’re aiming to build another 150 in the spring, followed by another 100 in the summer. We believe in the impact we’re having. Through better sleep, we’re building better opportunities for child development, helping parents, building future youthful leaders, and building community.”
More information about the Windsor chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (including upcoming bed-building events this spring!) are available at shpbeds.ca/chapter/ on-windsor.
PAST AND PRESENT
Ouellette Avenue between University Avenue and Chatham Kresge’s replaced by Royal Bank building: 1952 vs. 2019
The S.S. Kresge Department Store (1920-1991) opened on the main floor of the Victoria Building (1883), southwest corner of Chatham and Ouellette, destroyed in a spectacular fire on Christmas Eve, 1945; Kresge’s rebuilt in 1948. Its lunch counter, along with Woolworth’s Dept. Store next door, are fondly remembered by Windsorites of a certain age. Photography courtesy Walkerville Publishing.
WE’RE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY!
AT THE HEART OF the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board’s mission is a simple but powerful promise: We’re With You All The Way. More than a slogan, the message reflects a long-term commitment to supporting students from their first day of junior kindergarten until the moment they cross the stage to receive their high school diploma.
According to the Board’s Director of Education, Emelda Byrne, that sense of continuity and care is intentional. “When we say ‘we’re with you all the way,’ we want families to come in, feel welcomed and supported during the student’s entire academic journey,” she says. “Our commitment is to know, inspire and empower them. We want to teach, but also help them become discerning believers, as well as confident, successful, caring and contributing citizens.” Today, the WECDSB serves approximately 24,500 students across 35 elementary schools, eight high schools, and one adult campus.
Pathway Planning Drives Student Achievement
At the WECDSB, preparation for life beyond high school begins early, with strong foundations laid in junior kindergarten. Early learning focuses on belonging, self-regulation, literacy, numeracy and problem-solving.
In Grades 4 to 8, opportunities expand, helping students explore their interests and envision future possibilities. This includes open houses, experiential learning and exposure to a wide range of programs that help them imagine themselves in secondary school settings, said Byrne.
For Grades 9 to 12, as part of its efforts to expose students to different professional pathways, the board recently opened the St. Anne’s Skilled Trades Learning Centre, where scholars can learn masonry, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and welding.
According to Executive Superintendent Melissa Farrand, since students enroll in a WECDSB location, staff work to ensure that they not only meet but exceed expectations. “One of our most important goals is to make sure that our students are living up to their own potential and their individual aspirations,” she mentions.
How the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board Supports Learners from JK to Grade 12
An essential part of that is providing pathway planning support as they advance. “We’ve developed a reputation as a school board that’s known for its culture of innovation,” Farrand adds. “That’s based on the fact that we have a wide variety of specialized programs that provide students with excellent options, whether that’s in STEM, French Immersion and so much more.
The result of so much effort is reflected in the provincial assessment data. Last year, the WECDSB achieved a 94% success rate in the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), 9% above the provincial average, as Byrne stated. “We truly believe that success is measured through many different factors. Provincial assessments are a one-time important factor, but what happens every day in the classroom, like the curriculum expectations being taught and how student learning is assessed, are also very important.”
Faith And Inclusion Tie Every Aspect Of The Experience Together
Including every student is a fundamental component of the board’s special education philosophy, according to Superintendent Lee Ann Poisson. “Using the guiding principles of our Catholic faith, we create a sense of belonging and acceptance in our schools,” she explains. “We believe all students should be empowered to become independent, active members of their community, a place where every person contributes and benefits from living and learning together.”
At the WECDSB, faith is infused into every aspect of school life, says Superintendent Steven Bellaire. “Our Catholic faith defines everything that we do in our classrooms and our offices,” he affirms. “We strive to create an atmosphere that nurtures the faith journey of all our students and encourages them to put into practice the virtues inherent in our faith.
For Director Byrne, the ultimate measure of success is the graduate who leaves the system not only intellectually prepared but grounded in faith and values. “Beyond their academic pathway, we want them to be prepared to live meaningful, purposeful and faithfilled lives. We truly are with them all the way.”
BREAKING BARRIERS
Alaina
Ha’s Advocacy is Reshaping Accessibility in Emergency Response For The Deaf Community
STORY/PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA JUST
INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY are often discussed as abstract ideals. However, meaningful progress usually starts locally, inspired by lived experience and the willingness to ask simple yet important questions. In Windsor-Essex, a significant change has been driven by a young voice that refused to accept barriers as inevitable.
Alaina Ha, a deaf Grade 8 student at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Elementary School in Stoney Point, has helped shine a light on accessibility gaps in emergency response. Her advocacy has contributed to greater awareness around lifesaving equipment and the availability of text-with-911 services for the Deaf and the hard-of-hearing community across the region.
Alaina’s first journey into advocacy began during a standard first aid training session at her school. Paramedics from Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services visited the classroom to teach students CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). For most of the class, the lesson was straightforward. For Alaina, it was difficult.
“As I was learning the first AED machine, it made me feel kind of nervous,” she recalled through Danielle Boomer, her interpreter. “It gave me a pause to figure out if I could use this machine and do it safely.” The standard AED relied primarily on voice commands, forcing Alaina to depend on her American Sign Language interpreter to understand each step. “I had to look up to my interpreter often to comprehend what the machine was
saying,” she shared. “And that made me think that if I were out in the community or an emergency was happening, there would not be an interpreter there.”
When Alaina shared her concerns with the paramedics, they introduced a different AED, a model manufactured by ZOLL that includes captions, images and video instructions. The experience changed completely. “When I used that machine, I was able to understand it on my own,” Alaina said.
EMS Chief Justin Lammers, who was present during the lesson, recalls that with this equipment, the student was able to act independently. “She flew through the scenario on her own and never needed to look to the interpreter once,” he said.
It was a clear indication that many standard AEDs are not designed with hard-of-hearing users in mind. “In a real situation, that would be a safety issue for me, being able to understand what needed to be done without someone telling me,” Alaina declared.
Rather than leaving the experience behind, the student decided to act. She wrote a letter to ZOLL, explaining how the visual AED technology benefited her. In response, the company recognized her initiative and later donated a specially designed AED.
“I felt very surprised when the company answered me,” Alaina admitted. “But I also felt that I could do something to help other deaf people and make something more accessible.” Her questioning also earned her a certificate of recognition from the company, the Heart Safe Award.
The AED experience and learning about emergencies led Alaina to question another scenario: how would a deaf person contact 911 in a crisis? “I realized I wouldn’t feel comfortable calling 911 because I don’t speak, hear or use a phone that way.”
Her questions led EMS to further examine their systems and promote the availability of text-with-911, a service that allows registered users to communicate with emergency dispatchers via text rather than voice. “Texting is what I’m comfortable with and what we use often,” she explained. “So having text-to-911 available is really important.”
For Alaina, the impact is clear. “It gives deaf people a way to connect with 911 and get an immediate response,” she said. “There isn’t a delay and it is not getting someone else involved. It’s being able to contact the service independently.”
Chief Lammers says Alaina’s experience prompted emergency officials to take a closer look at accessibility gaps. “She made us realize that more work needed to be done to make the community more aware of the ability of those who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing,” he stated.
Residents should be aware that textwith-911 requires pre-registration. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals must contact their cellphone service provider in advance to enable the feature. All the information is now available on the County of Essex website’s Make the Right Call page: countyofessex.ca/ maketherightcall.
For Teresa Laporte, principal of the school unit, Alaina’s initiatives are truly remarkable. “She’s not only talking for students, but for the deaf people and for herself,” Teresa affirmed. “For a 13-year-old to understand what she needs to be successful in a hearing world, that’s a skill not a lot of people have. As an educator, it’s a proud moment.”
According to Teresa, Alaina’s leadership is evident both in and out of the classroom. “She can’t hear, but she communicates in her own way, getting around the building with her strengths and her bubbly personality,” she said. That presence is just as strong on the court, as the teenager plays several sports, including volleyball, basketball and badminton. “Her voice is heard through her actions and all her teammates follow her lead,” the principal added.
Teresa believes that this success is the result of a collective commitment to inclusion within the school, which is part of the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board. She says creating an environment where students feel supported is a shared responsibility among all educators, regardless of whether they experience accessibility challenges.
“I think it’s about recognizing that deafness is not a disability but rather an ability that requires accessibility through ASL Interpreters. We all have challenges,” she explains. “We need to make sure everybody feels confident. It’s about getting to know our students and inspiring them to be the best versions of themselves.”
Beyond her academic life, Alaina enjoys fishing during the summer and dreams of becoming a veterinarian. These last experiences gave her a deeper sense of awareness and she says she will continue to be attentive to the obstacles society imposes on the Deaf community. As her story continues to spread, she hopes her message reaches others who may hesitate to speak up. “I want to advocate that all deaf people can do anything,” she affirmed.
She also hopes her experience raises awareness of barriers that are often invisible to those who do not face them. “We can do anything just like anyone else and don’t need to depend on a hearing person. There is no inequality when it comes to being unable to hear.”
POWER IN NUMBERS
Windsor Life Magazine...and Only Windsor Life Magazine DELIVERS OVER 60,000
We will develop your advertising for you and make getting your message to thousands, easy. We have been fulfilling the advertising needs of many of the area’s best companies for over 32 years.
Let us help you include your business message in the area’s largest circulation publication.
Contact us today to discuss publication dates and effective use of your advertising budget.
CHARLES THOMPSON
Vice President Advertising & Sales
519-818-7352 cthompson@windsorlife.com
LESLIE CAMPBELL
Advertising Sales Account Executive 519-567-0603 lcampbell@windsorlife.com
SAM SINJARI
Advertising Sales Account Executive
519-567-3020
sam@windsorlife.com
Are you hosting an event, fundraiser, workshop, or community initiative?
Submit it to our Community Calendar and reach residents, partners and supporters all in one place.
Sharing your event helps strengthen local connections, increase visibility and showcase the great work happening across our community. Participation is free and open to all local businesses and organizations.
Submit your event information to info@windsorlife.com and be part of what’s happening locally.
