Windsor Life Magazine Anniversary 2023

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ANNIVERSARY 2023 VOLUME 30, ISSUE 8

1 CONTRIBUTING1 Matthew St. Amand WRITERS 1 Karen Tinsley

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Robert E. Robinson

1 Michael Seguin 1 Alley L. Biniarz

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

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Is it possible to designate a beneficiary on a GIA?

A GIA is an insurance contract that pays interest at a guaranteed rate, like a bank-issued guaranteed investment certificate (GIC). A variety of terms are available ranging from short-term to long-term. Either way, at maturity, investors can choose to reinvest their original investment plus the interest they have earned.

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Many investors choose GIAs primarily to help protect part of their portfolio from market exposure and to guarantee a predictable return. Tax and estate planning benefits and potential creditor protection can be attractive extra features.

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Yes. RRSPs, RRIFs and non-registered accounts can hold short-term or long-term GIAs. TFSAs can hold long-term GIAs. How can I invest in a GIA?

The probate process and fees do not apply in Quebec. There is a verification process for non-notarial wills but not for notarial wills. In Saskatchewan jointly held property and insurance policies with a named beneficiary are included on the application for probate but do not flow through the estate and are not subject to probate fees. 2In certain circumstances, you can protect your contract from unforeseen bankruptcy by designating a preferred class beneficiary. Since there are some circumstances where creditor protection may not apply, you should consult a legal advisor to find out if you’re eligible for this protection. 3Withdrawals, fund switches and/ or transfers between investment options may be subject to fees and charges, result in tax consequences, and impact segregated fund guarantees.

1

© 2020 Manulife. The persons and situations depicted are fictional and their resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental. This media is for information purposes only and is not intended to provide specific financial, tax, legal, accounting or other advice and should not be relied upon in that regard.

Many of the issues discussed will vary by province. Individuals should seek the advice of professionals to ensure that any action taken with respect to this information is appropriate to their specific situation. E & O E. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the fund facts as well as the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Any amount that is allocated to a segregated fund is invested at the risk of the contractholder and may increase or decrease in value.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL Barbara Allen, HBA, CFP Life Insurance Advisor Manulife Securities Insurance Inc. Senior Financial Advisor Manulife Securities Incorporated Direct Line 519-250-0515 Office: 519-250-5190, ext. 409 Barbara.Allen@manulifesecurities.ca 2255 Cadillac Street, Windsor Stocks, bonds and mutual funds are offered through Manulife Securities Incorporated. Insurance products and services are offered through Manulife Securities Insurance Inc. Banking products and services are offered by referral arrangements through our related company Manulife Bank of Canada. Please confirm with your Advisor which company you are dealing with for each of your products and services.

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Proceeds from October and November shows will be donated to helping those with cancer.

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CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND NOVEMBER 29 & 30 ALL AGE S

EXPERIENCE HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT, MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Throughout the months of October and November, a portion of the ticket proceeds will be directly dedicated to supporting The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County. From legendary artists to headline comedians, every performance will help support patients, and their families, impacted by cancer. It’s just one more way Caesars

Proceeds October and November shows Buy from tickets at CaesarsWindsor.com & support local cancer research today! will be donated to helping those with cancer.

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ON THE COVER Actor Evan Annisette followed his passion and landed a key role in Sophia Coppola’s new movie, Priscilla.

DEPARTMENTS

Photography by Hayley Andoff See page 12

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FEATURES 12

FROM LAW TO LIMELIGHT

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STREET SCENES

Preserving Cityscapes After Demolition with Dioramas

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NEW & NOTICED BON APPETIT!

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STYLE AND COMFORT

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MOTOR CITY MAVERICKS

Guitar Army Reflects On 25 Years of Rock ’n Roll

THROUGH THE FIRE

Sergeant Matt Capel-Cure Honoured for Courage

A House With an Unusual History 34

JOE PONIC’S DEBUT NOVEL

Swords and Boards in the Misadventures of Stonewall

Saying Goodbye to Two Essex County Icons

Actor Evan Annisette Lands A Role on the Big Screen 18

LEAVING THEIR MARK

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VACATIONING ON MADEIRA

Adventures on this Quiet Portuguese Island

Concept to Completion

FAMILY ROOMS • KITCHENS • BARS • BATHROOMS • INTERIOR RENOVATIONS

Publisher’s Note My Dad always said that the older he got the faster time went by. I never thought much about that statement until the last few years.

Now, I must say that I haven’t heard a truer statement.

It seems like only yesterday that the first edition of Windsor Life Magazine began distribution. Here we are 30 years later and we still have the same enthusiasm as we did then for what we consider one of the best communities to live in that a person could ask for.

We, as a magazine, have grown and you just have to look around to see the growth of the place we call home.

Industries have evolved at a rate that 30 years ago was unthinkable. Businesses and homes exist where there was nothing not long ago. Technology has taken us to places that have been amazing to be a part of. And there doesn’t seem to be much let up. When we started in 1993, there was no Google, Bluetooth, home broadband, GPS systems, smart phones or social media. The first iPod was not around until 8 years later.

Celebrating 30 Years

Actual Project

Even with all of this, we as a company maintain something that is of great importance: connection with our readers and supporters.

Without our loyal advertising supporters, we would not be able to connect to our readers in the positive manner we started with and continue, now and for years to come.

In most cases our staff have been together for not only years but decades. They blend together to allow Windsor Life Magazine to continually bring our readers the positive stories about Windsor/Essex-Chatham/Kent in a way that we are very proud of. Human interest stories on people and organizations from our area is what we have always done and will continue to do.

On a personal note, in this issue we remember two people who have made great contributions to our community. Vince Rosati and William Chisholm personified the way community leaders give back and grow with their cities.

We strive to do the same.

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THE

PASSION WITHIN THE AMBITION A Local Actor Gambles on a Life in the Arts and Wins STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND / PHOTOGRAPHY BY HAYLEY ANDOFF PHOTOGRAPHY

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SOFIA COPPOLA’S NEW MOVIE, Priscilla—based upon the memoir of Elvis Presley’s wife, Priscilla Beaulieu Presley—features a Windsor actor in a key role.

Written and directed by Coppola—who earned the 2003 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for her film Lost in the Translation, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson—the movie tells the story of Priscilla Presley’s life and her tumultuous marriage to Elvis. She once lived the fantasy of many women around the world, but also a private nightmare: married to the most famous man in the world, yet a veritable prisoner inside the gaudy opulence of Graceland. That world exploded in the early 1970s when Priscilla met, befriended and ultimately had a relationship with martial arts legend, Mike Stone.

Stone’s role in Priscilla Presley’s life is like a sliver of anti-matter: small, yet overwhelmingly profound. After all, he was viewed for years (incorrectly, it turns out) to be the cause of Priscilla’s divorce from Elvis. The role of Mike Stone in the movie Priscilla is no less significant and it is portrayed by Windsor actor, Evan Annisette.

Evan came to the part, and acting, in somewhat the same way: from left field.

In 2014, Evan was two years into a Criminology degree at Carlton University when he came to a startling realization: “This is not the path I want to take,” he thought. “I went to my sister Megan and told her: ‘I am not digging my program.”

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Evan originally wanted to get into law, but as that ambition dissolved, he found something unexpected underneath.

“What do you want to do?” Megan asked him.

“I want to be an actor.”

No one was more surprised by that revelation than Evan himself.

“I was a shy kid,” he explains. “I never did a lot of drama in school. The desire to act was something that manifested itself over a long time. Film, and the arts in general, were always comforting to me. I always wanted to be a creative of some kind, but I never saw a feasible way of attaining that.”

The elation Evan felt finding his passion in life was tempered by the reality of breaking the news to his parents.

“When I dropped the bomb about leaving school, they were shocked,” he recalls.

“But from the moment I told them I wanted to act; my parents were very supportive.

Not everyone has that. I am so grateful that I do!”

Evan enrolled in the Toronto Film School’s (TFS) Acting for Film, TV & the Theatre program. Upon graduation he applied to attend—and was accepted at—the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) in England where he completed a master’s degree in classical theatre.

It was, however, training he received many years before that was instrumental in Evan landing the role of martial arts expert, Mike Stone, in the movie Priscilla.

“Some early advice I received was: ‘Think carefully what you put on your resume,’ because you never know what may be relevant,” Evan says. “I studied karate during my formative years at Mr. Kersey’s Karate School in Forest Glade. It was a big part of my childhood. I got my black belt when I was about fourteen years old. I hadn’t kept it up, but it’s in my wheelhouse so I put it on my resume.”

Evan’s agent called him about the role of Mike Stone, but had to verify: “You really know karate?”

“Yes, I actually do,” Evan told him. He reflects: “That was helpful in being considered for the role. It felt like a full-circle moment to audition to play Mike Stone, an incredible karate world champion, and that Sensei Kersey knew him!”

It took more than an interesting skill on a resume for Evan to land the role of Mike Stone. Harnessing his singular ability to focus on a goal and attain it—making the

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Shibley Righton LLP is pleased to welcome Jacob Benson to the firm.

Jacob completed his articles at the firm and has now joined as an Associate in the Employment and Labour, Civil Litigation and Education Law Groups of our Windsor Office. Jacob obtained his Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) in Business Administration from the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor in 2017 and a Canadian and American J.D. from both the University of Windsor and the University of Detroit Mercy in 2022. Jacob’s practice is focused primarily in the areas of labour and employment and general civil litigation.

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cut for TFS, being accepted to LAMDA, landing roles in TV productions, such as Locke & Key, The Kings of Napa as well as Five Days at Memorial—Evan lasered-in on playing Mike Stone.

Once he got the role, the work didn’t end there.

“I have these few minutes onscreen and I wanted to maximize them,” Evan explains. “I was definitely given leeway to express myself through the character, but I also remembered: ‘This is an actual person.’ It was an interesting acting challenge.

I was not impersonating Mike Stone, I had to play him through me.”

Evan credits Sofia Coppola for bringing a great performance out of him.

“Sofia is such a great director because she is really good with people,” he says.

“That became obvious on set in the way she moved and directed this massive machine—the production—while getting great performances from the actors. I was prepared, but I was very nervous. She gave me the direction to get out of that place and bring my best to the performance.”

Evan is also quick to compliment his co-star, Cailee Spaeny, who plays Priscilla Presley.

“She was amazing,” he says. “She gave me so much generous feedback. It felt so easy. I was just being.”

When asked how he would advise young people aspiring to become actors, Evan says: “It’s not easy! Advice comes with caveats. You have to really, really want it. For as long as it took me to decide this was something I wanted to do, I wondered: ‘Am I setting myself up for failure?’

I would be doing this even if I wasn’t being paid. Be kind. Be willing to learn. Show up early. Be prepared. Be ready to fall on your face. Stay hungry!”

A24, the production company behind Priscilla, is renowned in the industry for the quality of its films. Among them is Academy Award winning Everything Everywhere All at Once. Other notable titles include Hereditary and Midsommar by director Ari Aster as well as Beau Is Afraid starring Joaquin Phoenix.

“A24 is a favourite production company,” Evan notes. “I love everything they do. To be in an A24 film is a dream come true.”

Priscilla received rave reviews at the Venice Film Festival last month. It goes to the New York Film Festival on October 6.

After that, A24 will release it to the public on November 3.

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GRITTY DIORAMA Local Artist Recreates Dream-Like Urban Scenes in Miniature 3D to Preserve a World He Both Loves and Knows Never Existed STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER MCNAMARA THERE IS NOTHING MORE punk rock than finding beauty in the neglected, overlooked and under-appreciated aspects of daily life. One person’s blight is another’s shrine. Shrink the scale down to something safe and approachable, and the work becomes absolutely compelling.

For the past few years, Windsor multi-media artist, Chris McNamara, has 3D-printed, cut, sanded, glued and painted an urban neighbourhood in miniature as part of an exhibition at Art Windsor-Essex (AWE) beginning November 14.

“The working title of the piece is ‘It Don’t Exist’, which is based on graffiti I have passed on Michigan Avenue in Detroit,” Chris explains. “Someone painted this hundreds of times on the sides of buildings and it became a kind of credo for me. Because there is a fleeting aspect to any city scene: a building, a storefront, or neighbourhood, these things are fragile.”

The idea for the project came during the lockdowns of 2020.

An instructor of animation and digital media in the Department of Film, Television and Media at the University of Michigan since

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Four pieces of Christopher McNamara’s “It Don’t Exist” diorama exhibit, which will appear at Art Windsor-Essex starting on November 14, 2023.

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2001, Chris continued his teaching online, but at a certain point he became weary of computer screens, keyboards, and all things digital.

“As a result, I was sitting at home, missing some of the urban spaces I would pass through or spend time in,” Chris says. “At the same time, I wanted to work on something that was more tactile. I got a 3D printer, but had no idea what I’d do with it except that it was something to experiment with. I had made model buildings before, from the hobby shop, but nothing like this.”

He continues: “I wondered how I could recreate these spaces. I wanted to make these worlds I could inhabit. That was the inspiration: the desire to be in those places and being denied that. The next best thing was making a model of them. The scenes are an amalgamation of memory—you know when you’re dreaming of a place, but it’s not one place, but a combination of many.”

As for his subject matter, Chris says: “For me, I suppose it’s the broken down, the forlorn, the lonely spaces that are more interesting, need more love, they are places that we feel there is a story behind, a story we want to know.”

A few of the pieces are based on actual locations, such as the Richmond Variety Store.

“I photographed the sign and printed out the letters in 3D,” Chris says. “My structure is totally inaccurate, but it echoes the actual place.”

Another piece is a beauty salon Chris based upon an actual one his mother frequented.

“It was called Miss June Beauty Salon,” he says. “I went through an old business directory and took the clip art from an ad that I found. I created a salon that is probably not the same, just trying to recreate it from my memory. That imperfection is what makes it so beautiful. It’s sort of like, our memories of things become very much like a dream, more lyrical in structure, in essence, not based in prose anymore, but like poems.”

Chris works in the railroad modeling scale known as “HO”—1:87 or 3.5 mm to one foot.

“I don’t have the modeling skills to design in a 3D app,” he says. “Instead, I go and find 3D models in the community of model makers and amalgamate them, preexisting 3D elements that are printed on flat panels. Even the window frames

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are printed. I sand them, paint them, glue them together.” He laughs. “It was fun to be in league with model railroaders who are way better at what they’re doing than I am!

They work at a high level. I am not there.

My work is more loose, less adherent to traditions in model railroading, but there is a fascinating community there.”

What makes Chris’ dioramas so striking is the level of detail he achieves in each piece.

The buildings are illuminated from within.

In one of the buildings—which has three store fronts—the upper floor apartment windows have rumpled venetian blinds.

There are dive bars and an adult bookstore, a bus and a train with passengers. There are Chinese food restaurants, a record store, a phone booth and sidewalk newspaper boxes. The storefronts have the rumpled, rusted retractable gates and security grates on the windows. One of the bars has a tiny Hillman’s Old Style beer sign. The larger sign on the same building actually illuminates in an eye-catching pattern.

“It’s embracing the idea of zeroing-in on the small poetic banalities there,” Chris says.

“There are so many buildings in downtown Detroit that look abandoned, but have these small signs of life, like those venetian blinds.

These are also signs of the absence of life that had been there. Part of my reasoning, trying to capture those details… it sometimes gets to where I wonder: ‘Why am I doing this? Who is going to care? This little goofy venetian blind? About the size of my thumb nail…’ But there is something about completing the scene.”

In total, Chris has created three city scenes, which will be shown at AWE beginning November 14. Each is a self-contained world that will be shown together at the gallery. This is one aspect of a show that Chris is curating at AWE. Along with his diorama, he selected pieces from the gallery’s collection for exhibition—in some cases, pieces that may not be familiar even to frequent patrons.

“The work I chose hasn’t seen the light of day for many years,” Chris says. “I based my choices on very early memories of the art gallery: what made me want to become an artist. They share some DNA with my work, all rooted in ideas of place and the city—not just Windsor—but the idea of city spaces that humans live in.”

The diorama is worth checking out. It will be interesting what memories the scenes evoke in people who view it. More information about this show and others at AWE can be found at artwindsoressex.ca.

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REMEMBERING TWO AREA BUSINESS ICONS Vince Rosati and Bill Chisholm Left Their Mark on Their Community

STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND

IN THE REGION’S construction and automotive sectors, there are two names that have each left an indelible mark on the region’s business landscape. This year, the community mourns the loss of these two remarkable individuals who dedicated their lives to entrepreneurship, family, and philanthropy: Vince Rosati and Bill Chisholm. Their stories are tales of humble beginnings, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to their families and communities.

Vincenzo “Vince” Bruno Rosati May 9, 1945 – September 5, 2023 At the age of eighteen, Vince Rosati embarked on a life-changing adventure from Pastena, Italy, armed with nothing but a dream, a suitcase, and eighty-five dollars in his pocket. His arrival in Canada on Saint Anthony’s Day, June 13, 1963, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey that would serve as inspiration for future generations.

Vince and his wife, Olivia, transformed a modest apartment closet into the foundation of what is became the renowned Rosati Group, a second-generation leader in design-build construction and real estate development. The legacy they created is a testament to Vince’s ceaseless work ethic and his unwavering love for his family.

Despite his official “retirement” in 1999, Vince’s heart remained entwined with the company. He relished hearing about new projects and took immense pride in the firm’s contributions to the city. His passion for construction was matched only by his love for family. Vince cherished the memories of taking his sons to construction sites, and he made sure not to miss any of his grandchildren’s important achievements.

As the third generation enters the family business, they carry with them the lasting memories and life lessons imparted to them by Vince. He instilled values that will shape the company’s future for years to come.

Vince, however, was more than a successful businessman; he was a pillar of the community. His dedication to various organizations, including the Ciocaro Club, the Italian Canadian HandiCapable Association, and the Ontario Masonry

William “Bill” Chisholm September 13, 1932 – July 03, 2023 Bill Chisholm’s story is one of resilience, hard work, and an abiding love for his community. Born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, on September 13, 1932, Bill’s deep-rooted East coast heritage was a source of pride throughout his life. In 1942, he moved with his family to Windsor, and Bill considered the city his home for the next eighty-one years.

From a young age, Bill embraced the values of entrepreneurship and going above and beyond. He started out as a newspaper seller, worked as a milkman, and even became a brake tester. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement led him to executive positions within Chrysler Canada. Eventually, he realized his dream of owning a dealership, establishing Rose City Ford in 1981.

Throughout his life, Bill never forgot the importance of giving back to his community. In 1964, he became a founding member and lifelong supporter of Charity House, which eventually became known as Brentwood Recovery Home. His contributions to the community extended to his induction into the Ontario Special Olympics Hall of Fame and his role as a founding member of the Automotive Business School of Canada at Georgian College. Bill’s caring nature was also reflected in small everyday giving and thoughtful gestures that many friends, customers, and employees would often speak of. He would help anyone he could, and his assistance took many forms; whether imparting words of wisdom, discounting an invoice, or

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Vince Rosati continued...

Association, earned him numerous accolades, including the 2003 Queens Jubilee Medal and the Excellence in Family Business award in 2002.

Together with Olivia, Vince was named Italians of the Year, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Windsor Chamber of Commerce, and was honored as Outstanding Philanthropists. Their philanthropic contributions extended to the Novelletto-Rosati Complex, Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association, Sacred Heart Church, Transition to Betterness, and more.

Vince Rosati’s impact on the business world, the community of Windsor/Essex, and the lives he touched will be forever remembered. He build his legacy on his own terms and it will continue to inspire generations. As he would often say: “Keep on trucking!”

Bill Chisholm continued... supporting a friend in need; he was available with grace and understanding.

In 2017, Bill Chisholm’s legacy was further enhanced with the naming of the William F. Chisholm branch of the Windsor Public Library. This branch houses the city’s automotive archives, a fitting tribute to his passion for the automotive industry.

Golf was Bill’s third love in life, after his family and community. He relished his many days on the golf course as a member of Essex Golf and Country Club in Windsor and Red Mountain Ranch in Mesa, Arizona. Bill’s love for golf served as a metaphor for the life lessons he held dear: dressing to impress, being a gentleman in sport and business, waiting his turn, and embracing the unpredictability of life, much like the game of golf itself. He cherished the friendships he forged on the golf course, which became lasting bonds.

Away from the golf course, Bill was a football fan who enjoyed watching games and following his favourite team of the moment.

He also loved the challenge of crossword puzzles, and had a flair for finding shortcuts in everything he did. His early adoption of “best practices” and technology that improved efficiency reflected his forward-thinking approach to life.

When asked, Bill would say his greatest success was his family. He and his wife, Amelia, raised six children, imparting lessons of resilience and integrity that will continue to be passed down to through the generations.

In the words of J.D. Salinger: “You’re a real prince. You’re a gentleman and a scholar, kid.”

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A Brush with Life Experience the Mastery of Painter Paul Murray

CONNOISSEURS OF ART will not want to miss “A Brush with Life,” an exhibition of internationally celebrated artist Paul Murray’s collection of oversized originals of wide-eyed children’s faces at Caesars Windsor from November 24 to 28.

Murray has been a full-time self-taught professional artist since the age thirteen, establishing his “Portraits of the Smokies gallery” in Gatlinburg, TN in late 1990’s, has opened many doors not only in the United States but abroad.

Paul Murray’s work has been awarded and recognized Internationally and showcased at more than 100 galleries, with features around the world in museums, TV documentaries, and magazine articles as far away as Paris, France.

Paul Murray’s works are a testament to his talent, dedication and passion, a passion that radiates in every captivating creation. In this new collection he uses his mastery of negative space and intense emotion, he’s minimalized the detail but with each bold and vibrant line, you can’t help but be drawn deep into the souls of the subjects.

Murray can spend months on one canvas, yet on stage he spends only minutes painting the Fab Four while blindfolded, while the world’s best musicians accompanying him.”

These veterans have been hand-picked by Stacy Heydon a long-time friend and neighbour from St Clair Beach (Tecumseh). They have worked with the likes of Shania Twain, Chet Atkins, Eric Clapton, Gordon Lightfoot, etc.

Heydon, Windsor-born, is a lead guitarist/ singer-songwriter/producer, who’s known for his extensive touring with David Bowies band and his work with many bands producing top billboard hits. Murray says, “I feel blessed that Stacy has connected me with fabulous talent, helping us tremendously with our Music ’n’ Arts Collide tours over the years.” The last concert in Windsor, Murray sold out a 1,200-seat theatre.

Next November the concert tour finds its way to Caesars Windsor Augustus Ballroom, with an all-new version of his production “The Beatles and Beyond,” It’s at events like this that Murray can give back, that’s helped raise more than $2 million for various charitable causes since 1985. Murray says, “it is the chance to give back and the challenge to try to be successful making a difference in others’ futures that excites me.”

“A Brush with Live” exhibition at Caesars Windsor features modern-day masterpieces new giant original renderings of wide-eyed innocents. Due to the limited amount of works, it is not required but recommended to reserve a time to attend. Don’t miss the chance to experience the awe-inspiring artistry of Paul Murray To learn more about the Paul Murray’s art exhibition visit www.paulmurray.com/events or call 519-377-7979.

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WALKERVILLE SPLENDOR Style and Comfort Built Upon An Industrial Foundation STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL PIETRANGELO IN THE HEART OF WALKERVILLE is a unique and singular home. Not only is it stunning to behold, but it also has a fascinating history. Built in the early 1900s, the structure began its life as a warehouse for a business called John M. M. Troup, Ltd, which was a lathing and plaster, or “acoustical” outfit as its early advertising proclaimed. One of the homeowners is an artist, drawn to the beauty in ordinary or unusual things, and in his travels found ads for the company in old yearbooks from Walkerville, Massey, and Kennedy.

Far from being a “dream home,” at first, the homeowner admits to barely giving it a second look on his drives through the neighbourhood, which he did quite regularly at one time.

“It wasn’t until there was a FOR SALE sign out front that it caught my eye,” he admits.

Although he liked what he saw, he brushed it off thinking: “I could never afford to live there!”

His partner was not so easily dissuaded. “He convinced me to book an agent and we looked at the site,” the homeowner says. “My partner kept saying: ‘We can make it work!’ And he was right!” Before the purchase, they confirmed that a pool would be approved by the city.

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The homeowner and his partner purchased the building in 2021.

One of the first things that caught their eye about the interior were the twelve-foot ceilings.

“We both had the same thought,” the homeowner says. “We thought it looked like a gallery.”

Few renovations were needed. The previous owners, a lawyer and her family, had re-imagined the industrial space into a law office at the front of the building and a living space in the back.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. The homeowner’s partner is the chef and the large island with gas stove is a favourite place to gather with friends and family. The open space allows free movement for getting to other areas of the house without disturbing the chef. Above the countertop is an opening that looks onto the stairway going up to the second floor.

Above the bar, three clocks hang on the wall. One displays Windsor time. The middle one displays the time in Australia.

“We have a niece who lives in Australia,” the homeowner says.

“And the third clock tells ‘Tucson time.’ As we have close friends that live there.’”

The clocks were chosen because they reminded the homeowner of clocks in W.D. Lowe, where he attended secondary school.

“I am drawn to things that are vintage, that have some wear and tear,” the homeowner continues. “My partner likes shiny, new things, but I like things that have some history to them.”

Clockwise from right: Bar adjacent to the dining room featuring clocks displaying Windsor, Australia and Tucson time zones; spacious dining room with reclaimed barn wood accents; raw metal staircase from a factory; open concept kitchen featuring stainless steel countertops, side by side fridges and cut-out allowing view to industrial staircase.

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Clockwise from right: The upper floor loft, home to a small office and sitting room with custom cupboards and built-in desk; the living room with brick accent wall and gas fireplace is the perfect conversation space; original taps and custom mirrors with newly added storage in the recently renovated ensuite; with heated floors the ensuite includes new soaker tub, doorless shower and full skylight.

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This is certainly true in the dining room. The glasstopped table seats six. The room is accentuated with a large round mirror that stands atop a sideboard.

“The sideboard is a family piece—my grandmother’s,” the homeowner says. “Their house caught fire and they managed to rescue that. I’ve had it refinished. It looks beautiful against that brick wall. There are other pieces. I’m a collector. To the left of the sideboard is a large beam. That is an acquisition from a friend’s family farm in Chatham. They were dismantling the barn and I managed to get that beam. On the other side of the sideboard are two beams from an old barn in Kingsville. What I love about those pieces is that the lumber was hand hewn; all done with hand tools.”

Two doors lead out of the dining room area. One goes to a patio with a barbecue. The other door leads to a sitting area and pool outside.

The living room is equipped with a gas fireplace.

“We have had the furniture for quite some time,” the homeowner says. “They have worn quite well. The living room is a wonderful conversation space. We are still working on finding the perfect piece of art to go over the fireplace.”

The homeowner recently renovated the ensuite bathroom.

“The taps are original from when they renovated

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in 2002, and the mirrors were custom, so we kept those,” he explains. “Otherwise, the bathroom seemed very dated. There is a skylight, so we stuck with black and white knowing the room would be bright.”

He continues: “The floor is heated so we couldn’t adhere anything to it. There had been a large Jacuzzi tub in here, but we took that out and replaced it with a soaker tub.

The shower has no door. We also have lots of storage, which it lacked previously.”

The homeowner describes the stairway as a “presence” in the home.

“It’s a statement when you walk in,” he says. “It’s no joke. It’s hefty. It was the original metal from a factory and had an orangey tinge when we first got it. We painted it black. The mesh is raw metal, not painted.”

The stairs lead to an upper floor that was built by the previous owners in 2002.

Up there is a home office and a family room with a bank of cupboards and a builtin desk from California Closets.

“It also leads to our rooftop patio,” the homeowner says. “We love that. The roof top patio is quite large. It’s L-shaped. We have a view of the water and the Hiram Walker Distillery, and the new renovated Walker Power Building. On the other side, we have a view of the Detroit skyline and watched the fireworks in June. There is a sitting area, of course: table, chairs, and umbrella. I also keep a small garden out there where I grow peppers and tomatoes.”

People who have seen the home are amazed.

“A lot of people say: ‘You’d never think there is an oasis like that in Walkerville!’ It’s too bad, Windsor is not a place like Toronto where they repurpose industrial buildings into living spaces. The old architecture in Windsor seems to disappear. We need to do more to keep it and repurpose it. For instance, living in a former warehouse, the walls are thick, so our costs for heating and cooling are minimal. It’s an amazing place!

WLM I’m sure it’s our forever home.”

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Windsor Life Magazine is always searching for interesting homes, landscaping, gardens, patios and water features to show our readers what others in the community are doing with their living spaces. If you have a home that you feel would be interesting please email photos to info@windsorlife.com. Photos need to be for reference only. If your home is chosen we will arrange for a complete photo shoot.

If you wish, you may remain anonymous and the location of your home will not be disclosed.

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10/11/23 12:35 PM

NEWANDNOTICED

TWEPI CEO GORDON ORR WINS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD ROSALIE TROMBLEY, THE GIRL WITH THE GOLDEN EAR

Mayor Drew Dilkens along with singer/songwriter Burton Cummings and St. Clair College President Patti France are photographed at the unveiling of the Rosalie Trombley Commemorative Sculpture at the corner of Riverside Drive East and McDougall Street. The bronze statue was created by local artist, Donna Jean Mayne. In addition to the sculpture, people can visit Windsor’s Chimczuk Museum location and see the temporary Rosalie Trombley Com­ memorative Exhibition through winter 2024.

Photo by Christopher L.M., City of Windsor Collection.

The 2023 honour was bestowed upon Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island’s CEO, Gordon Orr, at the recent Ontario Tourism Summit for the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario. The award was in recognition of the many successful accomplishments that Gordon has championed over his tenure. TWEPI was also nominated for Two Awards of Excellence at the Summit. visitwindsoressex.com

CONGRATULATIONS MIKE AND LISA ON 20 YEARS LOCAL BUSINESSMEN PURCHASE OTTAWA SENATORS

Windsor Spitfires’ owners (pictured from left) Stephen Savage, John Savage and Brian Schwab along with Oshawa Generals’ owner Rocco Tullio (right) are the local residents who are part of a group who have recently purchased the Ottawa Senators. They, along with other area residents Head Coach DJ Smith and Assistant Coach Bob Jones, have one goal: winning a cup. nhl.com/senators

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Last month, Lisa Williams and Mike Kakuk celebrated 20 years together hosting the Morning Drive with Mike and Lisa radio show on AM800 CKLW. The morning was filled with visitors which included local politicians, celebrities plus current and past coworkers. Your friends at Windsor Life Magazine wish you both another successful 20 years. @mikelisa800

P4AC RAISES $410,000

Play For A Cure recently announce that they raised $410,000 this year. The hockey event featured 10 teams including 8 men’s teams and 2 women’s teams who raised funds to support Integrating cancer research into cancer treatment. Pictured from Tango is Jeff Robillard (Partner and largest team supporter) along with Jeff Casey (Event Chair). Photo by Daryl Anthony Photography. playforacure.ca

COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY USHER IN NEW ERA OF NURSING IN CHATHAM-KENT

Nursing students studying in Chatham will no longer have to travel down Highway 401 to complete their degree thanks to a revised agreement between St. Clair College and the University of Windsor. Pictured are St. Clair College President Patti France, University of Windsor President Robert Gordon and University of Windsor Faculty of Nursing Dean Debbie Sheppard-LeMoine who signed a memorandum of understanding at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance earlier this month. Students can now complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at St. Clair College’s Chatham campus.

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ROOTED IN ROCK

Border City Band Guitar Army Reflects on 25 Years

STORY BY KAREN TINSLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO, SOOTER’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet Guitar Army (l to r): Mike Fortier (bass/vocals), Tim Garant (guitar/vocals), Wayne Bracewell (percussion/vocals), Dale D’Amore (guitar/vocals/songwriting).

FORMED FROM STRONG doses of Detroit rock, rhythm and blues, Guitar Army has been kickin’ out the jams on the Windsor/ Detroit circuit for 25 years. Here, on the verge of launching their ‘Detroit Blood’ LP, they reminisce, reflect on their roots and expound on their passions.

Where did the name Guitar Army come from, anyway?

It could be the iconic 1972 manifesto “Guitar Army: Rock and Revolution with The MC5 and the White Panther Party” that proclaimed, ‘rock and roll is a weapon for cultural revolution’ (written

by John Sinclair, manager of the notorious Detroit band MC5).

Or it could refer to the technique (often credited to Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page) of overdubbing multiple guitar parts to create a layered and harmonized sound.

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Guitar Army can also describe a group of guitarists performing together to create a powerful sound, and in these parts, Guitar Army is Dale D’Amore and Tim Garant (guitar and vocals), Mike Fortier (bass guitar and vocals) and Wayne Bracewell (percussion and vocals). The band gives a big shout out of appreciation to Tim’s brother Dave Garant, who fit right in (performing live and on two record albums) while Wayne was on hiatus for a few years.

Founded by late local musician Pat Sprague in 1997 and named after a hit song by Detroit-based band The Rationals, Guitar Army once played Classic Rock Fest on the River with Rationals lead singer Scott Morgan. They also performed with MC5 drummer Dennis Thompson.

Everyone in the band agrees that both The Rationals and MC5

s

were major musical influences; in fact, they also agree that their phone started ringing right after those momentous musical collaborations with their idols.

Bass player Mike recalls, “the local live music scene was so vibrant in ‘97; we played places like The Loop and Aardvark Blues Café.”

Back then, Radiohead, Metallica and Mötley Crüe ruled the airwaves, along with the Backstreet Boys and Spice Girls.

Wearing track suits outside the gym became a thing (thanks in large part to Sporty Spice’s affinity for Adidas© pants).

Bill Clinton was sworn in for his 2nd term as President. Tiger Woods, at age 21, became the youngest golfer to win the Masters; Mike Tyson bit off Evander Holyfield’s ear in the boxing ring. The Detroit Red Wings won their first Stanley Cup in 42 years. Princess Diana died in a horrific car crash in a Paris tunnel.

After twenty-five years, from jamming with rock heroes to a Victoria Day gig in Las Vegas (where Dale suffered a broken finger!) to performing their original song ‘Goin’ to Detroit’ on Channel 2 (last September at 8 o’clock in the morning!), it’s safe to say Dale, Wayne, Tim and Mike are bona fide rock ‘n’ roll journeymen.

Guitar Army were featured as special guests when the legendary ‘70’s hard rock guitar guru Pat Travers and his band—best known for hits Boom Boom (Out Go The Lights) and Snortin’ Whiskey (featured in the 2004 movie Sideways)—­­performed at Rockstar Music Hall in April 2019.

Drummer Wayne says he literally “lives and breathes music 24/7/365. I love playing so much! Sometimes, after we’ve loaded up after a gig and I’m walking out the door, the club manager calls out, ‘Hey man, you forgot your money…’”

“Being part of a rock ‘n’ roll band is absolutely a dream come true for me,” says Tim, with more than a hint of childlike glee.

Something that sets Guitar Army apart from many of their contemporaries? They perform original songs.

Dale (not only a lead singer and guitarist, but also a prolific songwriter) shares, “On stage, we don’t always introduce our original songs, because sometimes that can turn certain audiences off. We just launch into our originals without any fanfare. But that being said, when we play to audiences who know us, we get requests for our original stuff.”

When asked about his songwriting

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process, Dale says, “a lot of inspiration and energy comes from pioneers like Chuck Berry, Jerry lee Lewis, The Ramones and The Clash. Our Punk Rock roots and influences are rooted in our original songs and our live shows­­­—which makes us a bit different from the rest.”

And speaking of live shows, it’s a practice of Guitar Army not to employ set lists.

“We pride ourselves on our ability to ‘read’ our audiences before we get too far into a performance,” says Mike.

The art of being able to gauge (and engage) audiences is striking that balance of giving people what they want, but also giving them things they don’t know they want yet. By stacking their shows with tried-and-true hits, catchy originals (such as Faster and Louder, a track appearing on Invading the Border, a recently released compilation LP featuring musical newcomers and mainstays), Guitar Army has found a formula that works.

The art of giving back is also evident: Dale, Mike and Wayne have been inducted into the Windsor-Essex County Music Hall of Fame, which exists to recognize musicians and promoters for their music and community service.

“It’s a Hall of Fame with a difference,” says Mike. “You can be the best singer or player on the planet, but if you don’t give back to your community, you don’t get nominated.”

When asked how modern technology advances have impacted the band, Dale is quick to point out, “People in Poland and Germany have heard our music and bought our CD’s. During the pandemic, we did both virtual performances and porch concerts.”

Mike also runs a Facebook page called Windsor Punk, New Wave, Alternative— Past and Present. “I started it to keep in touch with fellow musicians during the pandemic, hoping to connect with 50 or so people; now it’s grown to almost 1,000 followers!”

So what does the future hold for Guitar Army?

Dale says that in addition to the release of their new LP “Detroit Blood”, there are also plans to “put something out on vinyl”.

And as this interview wraps up, the band is asked to share their funniest, weirdest, most memorable story. Their answer is unanimous: “The Aardvark photobombing incident. Just type in “girl moons band” on YouTube!”

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It’s Always Worth Calling

J&B Auto Recyclers FORTY-EIGHT YEARS AGO, Paul Winkler bought the business that would become J&B Auto Recyclers. He was twenty-one years old that day in April 1975 when he made one of the most momentous purchases of his lifetime. Almost half a century later, J&B Auto is the leading auto parts broker in the city.

How has it changed over the years?

“From where my dad started, it’s night and day,” says Max Winkler, owner-operator of J&B Auto. “It used to be, people came in, asked if we had a part, and someone ran out to the yard and checked a few vehicles. We do things differently now!”

One of the many reasons J&B Auto has lasted is they have changed with the times. Paul Winkler of 1975 could never have dreamed that the business he cultivated would one day have a computerized inventory system linking it to recycling yards across North America. This level of organization is needed because the crunch for auto parts is real.

“There is a national parts shortage,” Max explains. “Right now, a lot of manufacturers cannot supply these parts to insurance companies or to body shops, and everyone is turning to us. Vehicles that used to be in abundance at auctions just aren’t there anymore.”

In response to customer demand over the years, J&B Auto has developed a methodical process of dealing with each vehicle that comes to its storefront.

“I go through the car top to bottom. We test everything,” Max says. “We issue a stock number for that vehicle. The inventory manager looks at each part from that vehicle. All the usable ones are given a stock number and entered into the system.”

The oldtimey image of the “junk yard” is as outmoded as hand crank car engines. Fact is that auto recycling yards like J&B Auto are about the greenest businesses around. Everything that can be salvaged from a vehicle is removed. Those few items—such as fluids—that cannot be sold are handled according to all current environmental standards and regulations.

At the present time, J&B Auto has more than 1,200 vehicles

3 generations: Paul, with Harvey and Max Winkler

and over 100,000 car parts in its inventory. And still, they struggle to keep pace with demand.

“In the past month, we have shipped over fifty motors and transmissions across Canada,” Max says. “We purchased a 2021 Hyundai Elantra recently that had been hit in the rear. We cut the front end off and shipped it to a customer in Ottawa.”

J&B Auto also supplies new vehicle parts.

“We can source anything from remanufactured motors, transmissions, to aftermarket body panels, mirrors, headlights, taillights, many mechanical and drive-train parts,” Max says. “Many of our car parts come with a sixty day parts-only warranty. Depending on the item, extended warranties are available for purchase.”

Max came into the business at the same age his dad did.

“Nobody buys an auto recycling business anymore,” Max says with a chuckle. “People come to it like I did—growing up with it and being the next generation to take things over. I have enjoyed the last decade working with my dad!”

Max learned the business from his father and has come to the industry with his own ideas on how to help vehicle owners find the parts they’re looking for.

To learn more about J&B Auto Recyclers, check out their website at jbautoparts.com or visit them on Facebook at facebook.com/jnbautoparts.

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Cheesecake On A Stick - Dessert shop offering gourmet cheesecake dipped in chocolate and various toppings. Take out or delivery offered with Jubzi.com. Open Thurs-Sun 12-9 pm.

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JOE PONIC Local Author Releases Dark Fantasy Debut Novel STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO

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AS WITH MANY storytellers, local author Joe Ponic struggles when it comes to sharing his own tale.

But fortunately for us, he makes do.

Joe is a Human Resource Administrator with the Windsor regiment of the Canadian Armed Forces. And now, after years of hard work, he has joined our rich community of local authors having published Swords and Boards In The Misadventures Of Stonewall this June.

And when it comes to his own storytelling aspirations, Joe credits two sources: his father and other fantasy novels.

“My Dad, who passed away a couple of years ago, was the inspiration for my work,” Joe explains. “He could really tell a good tale.

He was really good at embellishing, at hooking whatever audience he was facing. And that always inspired me to be creative.”

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Joe Ponic also was motivated to tell his own story by several other novels.

“When it comes to the fantasy genre, nothing inspired me more than the Dragonlance series,” Joe states. “I still reread them to this day. The whole universe was based of a Dungeons & Dragons campaign.

And the story was so good that they ended up folding it into the world. They helped me develop my own novel.”

Swords and Boards In The Misadventures Of Stonewall tells the story of five semi-retired veteran’s of the Dark Lord’s army. After retiring from the tyrant’s army, they decide to set work as adventures. But when one of their close friends disappears, they ride off into the dead of night to find him.

But this will be no easy feat. The world around them is fractured, stuffed to bursting with warlords, strange monsters and other dangerous adventurers.

The search for their missing friend eventually leads them into the wilderness, where they stumble across a mysterious ruin.

“Will they be able to save their friend and restore order to this troubled land?” the book trailer on YouTube asks.

“The five anti-heroes end up creating this search party in this dangerous town called Stonewall,” Joe explains. “The book has a little bit of everything. The tone is very grungy and there’s a lot of hidden dry humour. The book has a lot of action but I wouldn’t call it excessively gory.”

The novel took two years for Joe to write.

“I struggled with the process a bit at first,” Joe admits. “But as with everything, you gain confidence as you go. It’s an interesting experience. Every time you edit your book, you want to make it better. And you want to make it better. And you want to make it better. And you want to make it better. And before you know it, two years have gone by!”

Joe found the nonlinear process of crafting a world rewarding. Particularly how writing was never “start to finish.”

“When I’m reading, I like picturing myself in the book,” Joe explains. “I don’t like to just stare at the words on the page. I like to visualize myself acting out the roles. And when you’re writing, you can always think of something later. On another draft you can change a line or add a whole different scene. You can change the whole environment of the story.”

Joe approached the craft of writing as just that: a craft. Every day he’d wake up, go to work, come home, and then, without fail,

retire to his office and set to work. “I was always a night writer,” Joe states. “I still have my full-time job. So after work I’d come home, eat supper, work on the book for three-to-four hours, then go to bed. Rinse, repeat.”

And there are as many types of writers out there as there are writers. Some write in the mornings, some in the evenings. Some on a screen, some on paper. And some like to feel out the story as they go, allowing the characters to guide them from scene to scene, while still others create a comprehensive plot outline before ever even thinking of typing the words “Chapter One.” These authors are typically referred to as pansters and plotters. Or gardeners and architects.

And while each approach has its merits, Joe is firmly a plotter. He credits his outline with helping him through the harder parts of the drafting process.

“I felt the book was working fairly early on,” Joe recalls. “What helped was that I took the time to write an outline. I wrote down a list of what needed to be in each chapter. And once my page count and my outline started growing, I knew I had something.”

Joe also credits his family and friends with helping him finish the book. Although, he admits that he wasn’t completely forthcoming with the project.

“I didn’t want everyone bothering me about when it was finished, so I didn’t tell them I was writing a book,” Joe laughs.

“I didn’t want to hear, ‘Is it done yet? Is it done yet?”

The book was released earlier this year, in June. And thus far, feedback has been largely positive.

“A great read, I’d recommend it to anyone,” Robert on Amazon writes.

“People love the artwork,” Joe states.

“They’re intrigued by the characters and the storyline. The comments people have been leaving have really meant a lot to me.”

That said, the positive feedback is not doing much to slow Joe down. Much like the semi-retired soldiers of the Dark Lord’s army he writes about, instead of relaxing he’s setting out on a bold new adventure.

“I wrote the book with room for a sequel, so that I can make it a trilogy,” Joe states.

“And hopefully it doesn’t take me two years to write!”

Swords and Boards In The Misadventures Of Stonewall is available on online.

As well, copies are available at Storytellers Bookstore on Ottawa Street.

WLM Back to Contents

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

Congratulations to Lou Valente on an exemplary career!

As we prepare to say goodbye to our long-time colleague and partner, please join us as we send our very best wishes to Lou Valente, Senior Portfolio Manager and Investment Advisor, on the occasion of his retirement.

A prominent and respected name in the local financial services industry, over his long and distinguished career, including more than three decades with RBC, Lou advised some of Windsor’s most successful professionals and business owners. More importantly, he cultivated deep meaningful personal and professional relationships, many of which will long outlive his working years.

Although we will miss seeing him every day in the office, we look forward to many more years of friendship and inspiration.

Our promise to you is to maintain your high expectations; we’re honoured to have the opportunity to continue to meet and exceed them.

Thank you from your team at RBC Dominion Securities Sechopoulos Valente Group RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2023 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 23_90621_MT6_006

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BORN TO SERVE Sergeant Matt Capel-Cure Distinguished For Bravery

STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WINDSOR POLICE SERVICE

“The truck had hit the house at a 90-degree angle,” Matt states. “And they were both on fire. The driver was laying right there, between the truck and the house.”

Matt had to act fast. The flames and the smoke were rising, and the person needed help.

So, without a second thought, Matt went in to pull the guy out.

“I didn’t go in alone,” Matt explains. “A man named Ryan Greenham came with me. We went into the area of the flames, took hold of the gentleman, and then moved him out of the danger. By then, more emergency services had arrived, so we were able to get him help.”

All told, it was an eventful night for Sergeant Matt Capel-Cure. But he reflects on the incident with characteristic modesty—even an endearing level of embarrassment.

“I guess it was an intense night,” Matt admits. “It was harrowing, sure. But as officers there is an element of risk to our lives every day. We’re always wandering into unknown situations. But that night was certainly different for me. During situations that are that intense and that dangerous, you don’t really have time to think. Your mind calculates the risk and you just move.”

“I’ve always been involved in organizations that serve the community...

It always seemed like I was going to do some sort of service.”

Sergeant Matt Capel-Cure (left) with Windsor Police Chief Jason Bellaire.

ON JUNE 3RD, THE SKIES BURNED over Amherstburg. On a dark night, a passing vehicle left the road, drove through a hydro line, crossed a lawn and crashed straight into an unoccupied bedroom of a house.

All this would have been dramatic enough, but during the collision, the vehicle also went through the home’s natural gas line.

“Initially, we received the call for the collision,” Matt recalls. “Fortunately, the people who lived at the house were not home, but neighbours were already crowding around the scene of the incident and they could hear the hiss of the gas spilling into the home.”

Matt happened to be the first on the scene. But in the few minutes it took him to arrive, the situation had escalated.

“The truck and the house had exploded just prior to my arrival,” Matt recalls. “When I arrived, the whole place was ablaze.”

Ordinarily, Matt would have evacuated the area and ensured that people retreated from the fire.

But before he could, he noticed that the driver of the vehicle was still in the flames.

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Fortunately, the Windsor Police did not share Matt’s reluctance to self-promote.

On July 24th, the Windsor Police held a ceremony to recognize Sergeant Matt Capel-Cure’s brave actions that evening. Windsor Police Chief Jason Bellaire presented him with a Chief ’s Award of Excellence Coin. Essex-Windsor EMS Chief Bruce Krauter also presented him and Mr. Greenham with a meritorious service Coin for their courageous efforts for going above and beyond.

And even during his moment onstage, Matt chose to share the limelight. “I was adamant that Ryan Greenham, the civilian who braved the fires that night, was also recognized,” Matt states. “People kept talking about me, but it wasn’t just me in there that night. He was there, too. He helped me save that man’s life. He was as much at risk as I was.”

Still, even a man as modest as Matt took a moment to enjoy the moment.

“The ceremony was nice,” Matt admits. “Everyone likes being recognized for something they’ve done.

But then again, there are plenty of emergency services professionals who demonstrate incredible bravery every single day who never get the credit they deserve.

Our community is full of unsung heroes.”

And Matt is a man who was born to serve.

“Ever since I was a young man, I was involved in

social agencies,” Matt states. “I’ve always been involved in organizations that serve the community. Beavers, Cubs Scouts. I later became involved in the Cadets, which got me involved in more comprehensive, patriotic service work. It always seemed like I was going to do some sort of service.”

After graduating St. Clair College, Matt went on to work as a Child and Youth Worker at the Greater Essex County District School Board. From there, he worked as a Paramedic at Essex Windsor EMS. But through all that, Matt remained fixated on his ultimate goal: serving the community as a Police Officer.

“Policing was always, always my goal,” Matt states. “Right from the beginning.

Even as a young child, becoming a Police Officer was always my dream. I can’t remember a time when it wasn’t my ultimate goal. Policing just seemed like something that was made for me.”

Matt credits previous roles as equipping him with the tools he needed to better serve his community.

“I always saw previous careers as a Child and Youth Worker and a Paramedic as a way to assist me in getting into the force,” Matt explains. “I was never really that tall and never really that big, so I knew I had to have an impressive resume in order to be accepted. And they both taught me so much. They taught me about psychology, they taught me how to keep my composure under stress.”

And even after upwards of thirty years in his dream job, Matt remains grateful to his hometown of Amherstburg for their gratitude.

“The community is always generous, always appreciative,” Matt explains. “Our community is grateful for all their services—Fire, EMS, that sort of thing. As much as police officers have been scrutinized lately, when I go out every day I still believe that the vast majority of people appreciate the work that the men and women out there serving them do. And we appreciate the opportunity to work for them.”

And now, after receiving his recognition, Matt goes back to doing what he does best: serving.

“I am two-and-a-half years away from retirement!” Matt explains. “After that, I may look at pursuing different things. I might try and transfer up to the city for different opportunities but ultimately, I still love—being a sergeant on patrol in Amherstburg.”

WLM Back to Contents

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The Island of Slow Living John and Anita Liviero Share the Ups and Downs of Their Adventures on the Portuguese Island of Madeira STORY BY ALLEY L. BINIARZ / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LIVIERO MADEIRA IS A MELLOW ISLAND, John and Anita Liviero concluded about the Portuguese island after their 10-day trip this past September.

The two had travelled to mainland Portugal in 2019 and knew they wanted to come back for one of the islands. They initially had their eyes set on the Azores but after a recommendation from a friend, and some extensive YouTube research, they landed on Madeira. “We always do our research, that’s how we

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plan, ‘’ Anita shares. “We saw a lot of interesting stuff but I could have stayed longer.

There’s always more to see.”

Driving on Madeira was an interesting experience for John, Anita, and their son Michael, who was travelling along with them. There is a lot of elevation and narrow roads, to which their son responded, “I would not be driving here.” Thankfully John is an excellent driver, and with Anita’s expert navigation skills, they made out alright.

Clockwise from left: Seixal Beach on Madeira North Coast; “Palheriros” tiny homes in Santana; The Christ the King statue; Funchal pier; Nuns Valley; art of open doors in Funchal; after sunrise on the top of Pico do Ariero; Funchal, the capital city of Portugal’s Madeira; grilled octopus.

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They scaled Madeira’s rolling hills, making 90 degree turns along edges with hardly any railings, but it was all worth it for the views. “The scenery, the smell of the flowers and everywhere you looked there were banana trees,” Anita details. “Where we have evergreens all over in backyards here, they have banana trees.”

The climate on Madeira is warm all year round, and with their location being close to the continent of Africa, their winters only dip to about 60 degrees. Madeira isn’t a big island, so it’s easy to avoid any unsavoury weather while vacationing. John and Anita say that if it was raining on one part of the island, they could drive 10 minutes away and be enjoying clear skies. This made planning for their days a breeze­—they would just follow the sun.

The way they spent their days varied. One day, John, Anita and Michael packed some sandwiches and headed towards the black sand beach, which was a highlight of the trip. Many of the beaches on Madeira are rocky and there are only two sand beaches on the island where the sand is imported from Dubai. The three spent their day watching the airplanes landing, which can be quite the spectacle. The runway is against the water, which Anita says makes for a complicated landing. Since the wind is so strong, some planes need to circle two to three times before they can safely land.

One of the most stunning views they enjoyed during their time on the island was on the Porto Aveiro where tourists and locals either hiked or drove up to see the sunrise.

Many people would pack a picnic for the morning and take in the view atop a mountain, where the point was higher than the clouds.

Although they drove to the top of Porto Aveiro, the three of them enjoyed two of the many hikes located on Madeira. The first was the hike of 25 waterfalls whose beautiful scenery was matched with some challenges with the elevation. Anita shares that she only braved going into the water up to her ankles, but 19-year-old Michael went gladly into the icy waters.

She and John completed another hike called Nuns Valley. The name came from a time where the island’s nuns were being harassed by invading pirates. The nuns needed a place where they could live safely and they settled around these mountains. Overall, Portugal is a very Catholic country, so Anita says that churches and holy monuments are to be expected.

The Nun Valley hike was especially

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challenging and Anita felt so dehydrated when coming back down into town. “I told John we needed to stop at the first place we saw a sugary drink,” she explains how they found one of their favourite food stops. “We saw them cooking the seafood and curing meats and I knew we had to go back there.”

Taking a rest after their hike, they wound up returning twice to this small place carved into the mountain hills, where they could see the food being freshly made on the spot. A notable meal here was their local bread, bolo de caco, which is a dish made of sweet potatoes and flour, baked on a rock and spread with garlic butter. Since being home, Anita has tried to make it on her hot skillet. Although it wasn’t the same without the Portuguese environment, it satisfied the craving.

There was so much to see on Madeira.

They were staying in Funchal, the capital of the island, and enjoyed exploring its old downtown area. Artists had landscaped the area with signature door paintings, where each door was illustrated with something different. Anita and John say that these painted doors, plus the small houses that people still live in today, really shapes the ambiance of the town.

“It was also very safe,” Anita says. “Our Airbnb host was so welcoming and shared that we didn’t have to worry about going out late. There was no criminal activity and we didn’t see a policeman the entire time.”

Their Airbnb was located up the hill from the downtown area, which Anita and John say made going downtown easy, but the way up was another story. It would take them 15 minutes to go down but around 40 minutes to go back up. “If I have any advice to visitors, it’s not to pack any high heels. You won’t need them!” Anita laughs about the logistics of wearing heels uphill, or on any of Madeira’s cobblestone streets.

If they were to go back, they would add Porto Moniz to the list of attractions. The entire island is volcanic, and Porto Moniz houses these lava rock pools, which are stunning natural swimming pools. “It would have been a cool experience, just with the entire layout: looking around at the mountains, being next to the ocean and sitting in the pools,” Anita says.

There is a bit of everything for travellers to enjoy, unless, as Anita says, there are young people who prefer to go out or have a more robust nightlife or adventure. Madeira is made for people who enjoy the slow life, the ones who enjoy their hikes and hills, calm beaches and eating delicious local seafood on a quiet and kind island.

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