Windsor Life Magazine May/June 2026

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desjardins.com/ontario Application deadline: May 31, 2026 Supporting meaningful

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Robert E. Robinson

CONTRIBUTING Camille Arbour Ross

WRITERS

Jenn Brignall-Strong

Laurie Fox

Matthew St. Amand

Melissa Schenk

Michael Seguin

Norbert Bolger

Paula Just

Serafina Piasentin

Tom Porter

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carol Garant

ART DIRECTOR Michael Pietrangelo

PRODUCTION George Sharpe

PHOTOGRAPHERS Chris Kiritsis

Gene Schilling

Heike Delmore

Janis Lempera

John Liviero

Syx Langemann

Trevor Booth

Vita Casella

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

WINDSOR LIFE MAGAZINE 318-5060 Tecumseh Road East Windsor, Ontario N8T 1C1 Tel: 519-979-5433 www.windsorlife.com

This isn’t a backyard.

It’s

a private retreat. An entertainment space. A place to reset.

We don’t build backyards. We build environments.

Estate planning mistakes to avoid Advice for ensuring a smooth transfer of wealth.

Every year in Canada, billions of dollars in estate assets are transferred at death. Sometimes these transfers don’t go as smoothly as expected. There are, however, ways to minimize the risk of problems by keeping a few points in mind during the estate planning process. Careful planning and review of existing plans can help to ensure that the assets you’ve spent a lifetime accumulating go to the people you’ve selected, in the way you intend.

I’ve highlighted a few of the most important factors to consider when planning your estate. Of course, each highlighted factor requires significant explanation and understanding to ensure the smooth transition you are seeking.

Will planning

A basic and all too common mistake is not preparing a will. A will communicates your intentions and allows you – rather than the government – to determine how your assets will be distributed when you die. A will facilitates the administration of your estate and can help you avoid some taxes. It also allows you to choose the executor of your estate and the guardians of your children.

Tax implications

Often people intend to split their assets equally between beneficiaries – for example, between three children. However, if you fail to consider the tax consequences, the wealth transfer may not turn out equal at all!

Another example of failing to consider the tax implications often involves second marriages or separated and estranged spouses. Understanding these implications is extremely important.

Tax issues may feel complicated, I can help you to sort out appropriate solutions related to both investments, life insurance and retirement savings.

Beneficiaries

When a life event such as a birth, death, marriage, separation or divorce occurs, people often remember to review and update their will, but may forget to review their beneficiaries. This common oversight could greatly affect the realization of your final wishes. When naming a beneficiary, it’s also important to consider the age of the individual.

Joint ownership

Oft times, individuals choose joint ownership for “simplicity” yet fail to consider the implications of such a choice. I can explain.

After a lifetime of carefully saving, investing and planning, you want the peace of mind of knowing your assets will be distributed as you intended. As a well-established, trusted advisor, I can partner with you to make the best choices for your situation.

The next chapter in refined living has arrived in Belle River. Coopers Landing is the second phase of our successful Cooper’s Mill community and Essex County’s first Net Zero Ready neighbourhood. With easy access to the marina, golf courses, scenic walking paths, and local grocery stores just minutes away, it blends small-town charm with future-forward living, an ideal place to retire in comfort and style.

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HELPING WINDSOR HEAR BETTER THIS WORLD HEARING MONTH

Shannon Dion Patient Care Coordinator

Publisher’s Note

Every year, I say how much I love Spring. There is a fresh sense of rebirth or renewal. Often, with renewal comes change and we have some exciting changes coming to our social media.

We have started a new video series to compliment the original local stories that we bring you through the pages of Windsor Life Magazine. These series are now trending on Instagram and Facebook.

Firstly, search #MyWindsorLife for special content with interviewees where they discuss their local preferences and experiences.

Secondly, our Windsor Life Beyond The Page video series is available on all our social media platforms including our new YouTube and TikTok channels which will have additional interviews and behind the scenes footage from the time we’ve spent with many of the area’s most interesting people. Keep monitoring for additional content, giveaways as well as interesting and engaging conversations. Scan the QR codes when you see them at the end of stories for additional material.

You will find one of the QR codes at the end of the Jeff Burrows Drum Marathon story. May 29 and 30 will be the 20th anniversary and final year of Jeff’s 24-hour event where he raises money for local charities. Jeff is certainly a local treasure and a talented drummer. What this story tells you, and #WindsorLifeBeyondThePage expands on, is how much Jeff loves and gives back to this community.

We have a guest column from Norbert Bolger, President of the Windsor Essex Home Builders Association, on the significance of the government’s recently announced tax breaks on new home sales. All the incentives can save new home buyers up to $150,000 and over $900 on monthly mortgage payments. The benefit to our economy is, with increased buyers comes more new-home construction, which in turn, pumps revenue into the economy and helps lift everyone.

We are also featuring our Planned Giving feature where we examine the benefits of bequeathing some of your estate to a worthy local charity. Not only does this help the charities but there are some significant tax advantages for you too.

I hope you enjoy reading.

Bob Robinson

The Human Side of Healthcare Starts with Our Nurses

VICTORY REPRODUCTIVE CARE (VRC), a leading fertility clinic in Windsor-Essex with over 18 years of experience, is dedicated to supporting patients on their reproductive health journeys. At the heart of this mission is a team of committed nurses, who provide vital care during a deeply emotional experience.

At VRC, more than a dozen nurses work tirelessly behind the scenes and alongside patients. They offer not only clinical expertise but also empathy, reassurance and continuity of care. “The nurses are the backbone of support for our patient base,” says Marla Coffin, CEO of Victory Reproductive Care.

Sarah Hillier, RPN, leads the nursing team as Nurse Manager, ensuring exceptional care for IVF patients.

In recognition of National Nursing Week, taking place from May 11 to 17, VRC is proud to celebrate the contributions of its nursing team. This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses to Transform Health,” reflects exactly what happens within the clinic’s walls every day. “Our nurses embody the compassion and resilience that define who we are,” Marla adds.

Among the exceptional staff are two professionals whose leadership and dedication exemplify the organization’s values.

Sarah Hillier, Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), serves as the Nurse Manager and oversees the nursing team to ensure we provide exemplary care to individuals undergoing IVF treatments. With experience across multiple clinics, Sarah brings both knowledge and a steady, reassuring presence to her mission.

“For many of the patients, this is one of the most vulnerable times in their lives,” Sarah says. “My goal is to

make sure they never feel alone in the process, that they feel informed and assisted every step of the way.”

Another integral part of the team is Kasia Guarasci, Nurse Practitioner, who primarily supports VRC’s obstetrics practice. Kasia has a strong background in labour and delivery and a deep passion for women’s health and patient-centered care.

“I always tr y to meet patients where they are,” Kasia shares. “Whether they’re feeling hopeful, overwhelmed, or uncertain, it’s about creating a space where they feel heard, respected and cared for.”

Sarah and Kasia are helped by more than ten additional nursing professionals who work collaboratively to deliver seamless guidance. From coordinating treatment cycles to assisting with in-clinic procedures, the staff ensures that every patient receives high-quality support.

“The nurses are there in the hardest moments and the most joyful ones. That is what truly transforms care,” Marla affirms.

To celebrate those successes and reconnect the whole team with patients, VRC will host its first annual Graduates Picnic on June 20 at the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex in LaSalle. The event will bring together former patients and their loved ones for a day of connection and celebration. Attendees can enjoy lunch and group activities. Full event details will be posted on the clinic’s social media and website.

“It’s an opportunity for us to see how these families have continued to grow and flourish,” Marla explains. “It truly uplifts and re-energizes our team, strengthening the commitment to continue this challenging work, especially when we know that we are helping to build families.”

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FlowAND FUNCTION

The Pilot’s Cove Retreat Dazzles Onlookers

STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS KIRITSIS – HUB MEDIA INC.

AS SUMMER FLASHES us some funny looks from around the next bend, most of us have already begun daydreaming about various outdoor activities. Shrugging off our cumbersome winter coats. Going for a stroll outside in the evenings. Inviting friends and family over. Having a couple drinks around the pool. Enjoying the mouthwatering smells of smoke from the nearest barbeque.

But perhaps no home is better equipped for such outdoor festivities than the Pilot’s Cove Retreat.

The property was the brainchild of two parties: the current family living there and Ryan Pawluk, the Owner of Lakeshore Landscaping.

“This was such a rewarding project,” Ryan states. “It presented us with a number of fun, interesting challenges. We were working with a relatively small space, with multiple levels of slopes and heights. A lot of planning went into the positioning of all the key elements the

family had on their wish list. We went through multiple revisions to get the flow, function and feel right for them. Once underway there were small tweaks and adjustments, but all went smooth and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.”

So, with Ryan serving as our guide, let’s begin our tour of the Pilot’s Cove Retreat:

Upon entry, perhaps most arresting about the property in the center of it all, is the small, plunge-style pool, by Tecumseh Pools complete with a raised sundeck and water feature. It catches the afternoon light just so on sunny days, glittering before all onlookers like the miniature oasis that it is.

Lingering nearby is a year-round, easy-to-access raised spa-style hot tub with heated pathway access. Nothing better than to enjoy a relaxing dip even in the depths of winter, without ever having to pause to shovel snow out of the way! s

The whole pool and surrounding area is tastefully decorated with hardscaping features (which Rock Solid Interlock greatly helped with) and raised walls and patio areas for both entertaining and relaxing. The water trickling from the raised fountains perfectly blends with the lapping currents of the nearby river, enclosing the backyard in a private, serene atmosphere. Additionally, having built-in umbrellas that can rotate at a full three-hundred-and-sixty degrees allows for a mobile patch of shade.

It should be noted that the pool also contains an automatic cover—which is a nice upgrade that allows for greater safety and a cleaner pool with a lot less maintenance. Having this cover helps extend the summer season too!

“The design was critical,” Ryan stresses. “We used 3d models to pull together all the elements. That was instrumental for the client to get a visual of the end result before the first shovel hits the ground. We even mapped out the sunlight! It was tremendously important to us that we gave them the optimal space to enjoy themselves in.”

Next to the pool area is a sunken firepit, perfect for when festivities stretch long into the evening. The bench-style seating with a linear raised burner can accommodate many visitors. These types of areas always prove a hardscaping challenge—especially with drainage—but if done properly they end up as some of the most popular hangouts.

“As beautiful as the property is, it’s worth considering just how much wire and pipe is running beneath it,” Ryan explains. “There’s likely enough to reach Toronto and back! It all has to be at a certain depth to account for code. This is especially important when you start digging foundations. We were working within inches on this property! Everything had a place and was a must fit.”

Here, it’s also worth noting, just how impenetrable Pilot’s Cove Retreat is without compromising on aesthetics. Rather than a typical fence, Ryan and his team provided laser-cut screens along the south side of the property. These powder coated aluminum barriers are fully decorative and seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape and nearby walking trail. They are also equipped with lights, protecting the revelers from the wind while still adding substantial life and colour.

With being so close to the water, access to the canal for boating and winter play is also a must. Ryan and his team connected the patios and walkways with a

composite boardwalk running the length of the property.

Also, the Retreat features a gorgeous outdoor patio complete with a covered porch. The area comes equipped with a barbeque, sinks, a television, and another seating area. The entirety of the outdoor kitchen was designed and procured by the very talented team at Housewears.

This seating area and the entire yard contains a full audio system and another firepit, this one equipped with a glass railing that will block the breeze while allowing for both a warm glow and a glimpse into the roaring flames.

Across the way, the Pilot’s Cove Retreat has its own built-in, three-hole putting area.

“These golf greens and artificial turf areas have become increasingly popular as of late,” Ryan explains. “When you’re tight for space—and when there’s a lot of hard surfaces—it is nice to soften with a bit of green. It is something that doesn’t need to be maintained much, especially for these tight spots when mowing isn’t always feasible. It’s always a good idea to get some gaming going after a few drinks!”

You should see this place at night. What a sight! The accent lighting is one of the most exciting pieces to add to any landscape vision. It breathes substantial life and a whole other look and feel to the property, extending the enjoyment long into the night.

This completes our tour of the Retreat. When studying the property—from either the pool, the patio, or anything else in-between—it’s difficult not to lean back and bask in what you see. Not just for the sheer artistry on display, but for the depth and breadth of craftsmanship that has bound everything together in absolute harmony.

Yet when asked what he’s most proud of in the Pilot’s Cove Retreat, Ryan only smiles.

“The clients were happy,” he states.

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.

Outsmart low bidders?

NASA did indeed put out an RFP for the Mercury Space Program. But the Technical Data Packages for the bidders was a stack of documents 4 1/2 Feet High.

So, yes, NASA — with a staff of literal rocket scientists — went with low bidders and came out OK.

Guess what? You ain’t NASA. And your 12 pages of blueprints WON’T cover your butt if you go with a low bidder, thinking you’ll get your pole barn or steel building constructed without paying expensive change orders.

Contractors will even joke they bought their yacht with money from change orders and the dinghy from the original contract.

The solution? Choose a builder you can trust with guaranteed bids, rather than one you plan to “outsmart”.

I’m Jeff Sylvestre, and I believe a builder should work with you to ensure your barn is built true to your vision for the bid price, rather than against you by racking up change orders. Our bids might be higher, but the price often ends up lower, and our clients are the most satisfied in the end.

JeffBURROWS

Wrapping up 20 Years of Charity Drum Marathon on a High Note

AS A DRUMMER, Jeff Burrows knows a thing or two about endurance.

The mental and physical demands of keeping time and carr ying the beat set after set? Not for the faint of heart.

That same stamina has carried him far beyond the kit, powering two decades of leading a charity event that has grown, adapted and deepened its impact with every passing year.

Now, as Burrows prepares for the twentieth and final Jeff Burrows 24 Hour Drum Marathon on May 29th and 30th at Good Time Charly’s, he reflects on the genesis of the event, how it’s evolved and what comes after the final beat.

What initially began as memorabilia auctions and private charity shows with his globally renowned alt-rock band, The Tea Party, quickly grew into an annual event that centred on eclectic jam sessions with some of his favourite local musicians and a gruelling 24-hours behind a drum kit. The concept was simple, albeit demanding: Burrows would play the drums for 24-hours straight and would be joined in shifts by bands and artists who signed up to accompany him.

“I had really become interested in doing a lot of charity work (back in the early 2000s),” recalls Burrows. “The manager of The Tea Party at the time, instilled in us that concept of ‘with success comes responsibility’ and I really took that to heart.”

“He reminded us that if you have a platform, you should use it,” he adds. The manager, Steve Hoffman, passed away in 2003 at just 38-years old after a battle with cancer; a devastating loss for the band, and one that deepened Burrows’ charitable focus.

Burrows recounts his time playing SARS Fest (now called Molson Canadian Rocks) in Toronto that same year, collecting signed drumsticks from other bands at the music festival and auctioning them off to raise money for the Windsor-based charity, Transition to Betterness.

“I started with (fundraisers) like that, and it really fuelled the fire to continue to do something different.”

The idea of a drum marathon was just that. Something different. While Burrows says traditional fundraising dinners and events serve an amazing purpose for so many charitable organizations, he wanted to lean into his niche and create a bit of a spectacle.

“I was in radio at the time, and I thought, ‘ What kind of a stunt would be cool?’ and, you know, 24 hours of playing drums

sounded like a really cool idea,” he laughs. “Sounds good in theory, right?”

So how did the drum marathon evolve into a highly anticipated annual fundraiser supporting multiple charities across Windsor and Essex County?

It almost didn’t.

With months of preparation, soliciting sponsors and coordinating multiple bands and artists, Burrows recalls struggling with the complexities of the event in the early years.

“Anyone who’s ever organized a gala or a fundraiser knows how much goes into an event months beforehand,” he says. “By year three, I remember talking to my friend Gary (Demmans) and saying, ‘I don’t know man, this is just so much work. This might be the last one.’”

However, once Burrows witnessed the impact of the event firsthand, he knew it was something that needed to continue.

“One of the artists who’d played with us since year one had just lost his wife to cancer,” he shares. “He came out that third year and brought a bunch of his own donations that he’d solicited and he gave this beautiful speech and I just remember thinking, ‘We can’t stop now. It’s making a difference.”

For the first ten years of the event, Burrows chose to focus on raising funds for Transition to Betterness to support patients and families navigating cancer treatment. As the years passed, Burrows saw a gap in funding for mental health initiatives, prompting him to expand his fundraising efforts to support multiple local charities including House of Sophrosyne, Maryvale, In Honour of the Ones We Love as well as Harmony in Action.

“ We’d seen a lot of cuts to mental health funding and various support programs and I thought, ‘I love my T2B family, but let’s switch it up a bit,” he shares. “We want to help as many people as we can.”

With close to $800,000 raised since its inception, the drum marathon’s impact now echoes far beyond the stage.

“And now here we are,” sighs Burrows, with a tone that’s equal parts gratitude and sadness.

The decision to make this the last year for the event was shaped not only by its 20-year milestone, but by the loss of Jeff’s long-time friend and event partner, Gary Demmans, in whose memory this year’s drum marathon will be held.

“This year has been hard; Gary passed away just a few months ago and I feel like you can’t really do this thing without

him,” he says. “It’s a bittersweet pill, but at the end of the day, Gary would have wanted one more show. His family will be there, so it will be very special.”

Burrows says the pair’s friendship dates back to his university days, when he was working midnights at the Canada Post processing plant, where Demmans was a manager.

“He knew we (The Tea Party) were just starting out, and we ended up doing our first independent CD, and he was literally the first person to buy one from me for five bucks,” he smiles. “He was always just this super generous, quiet guy who never wanted a pat on the back or any kudos for anything he ever did.”

The two kept in touch over the years, and when Burrows came up with the idea for the drum marathon, Demmans volunteered to help.

“He was the one that kept everything moving,” he says. “He was the guy who was there two hours before it started and two hours after it was over. It’s a big production and he made it all happen. I was always just so proud of him.”

BY MIRO (MIKE) LAUS

While Burrows reflects on the many milestones and memories he and Demmans shared over the past two decades, he notes that one of things that always stood out the most to them was the community support year after year. The same families coming out to cheer them on, the same partners and businesses supporting; even through economic downturns and personal struggles.

“It’s really just been so heartwarming to see,” he says. “I’m so thankful for the hundreds of volunteers over the years. The venues. The bands. The charities themselves who do so much to make this event happen. The businesses who donated prizes. This whole community has been so giving.”

And while the drum marathon may be ending, Burrows has already begun contemplating what comes next.

“I’m still wrapping my head around it, but I am working on something,” he teases.

Want to donate to the Jeff Burrows 24Hour Drum Marathon? Event details can be found on Jeff Burrows’ Facebook or Instagram pages, or donations can be made directly to www.harmonyinaction.com, with funds being distributed equally amongst participating charities.

There’s Never Been a Better

Time to Build

Expanded HST Rebate to Lower the Cost of New Homes

FOR BUILDERS, suppliers and prospective homeowners across Windsor Essex, the provincial–federal HST rebate announced this spring is the most consequential intervention our industry has seen in more than a decade. The program—a one year rebate tied to agreements of purchase and sale (APS) signed between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027—will reduce upfront costs for eligible buyers and, if coordinated effectively, can help restart a stalled construction pipeline.

Intervention Matters Now: Ontario faces a pipeline failure, more than a normal slowdown. Recent industry analysis shows 2025 was among the weakest years for new home sales in decades. Locally, Windsor Essex has experienced a sharp decline in new home sales and starts.

Estimated Windsor Essex figures suggest::

• Local new home sales are down roughly 60–70% from recent peak levels;

• Annual local starts could fall by roughly half if current trends persist (for example, from an estimated 1,200 recent average annual starts to about 600 in the very near future); and

• Employment at risk locally could range in the thousands (2,000–4,000 jobs) if the pipeline deteriorates further.

Put simply: without timely policy action, the ripple effects will hit local employment, municipal revenues, suppliers and the long term ability to deliver homes for Windsor Essex families.

What the HST rebate does—and its limits: The government designed the rebate around APS signing dates. Only agreements signed on or after April 1, 2026 qualify. We recognize the frustration of purchasers who signed just before that date and now find themselves excluded; the Ontario Home Builders Association advocated for a more retroactive approach mirroring the first time homebuyer rebate, but the government chose a forward looking, single year window instead.

Even so, the rebate is a practical lever. Combined with complementary measures—especially meaningful reductions in development charges—analysis suggests these policies can materially improve affordability. Modeling shows full HST relief on the first $1M of value combined with a 50% reduction in development

charges (DCs) could lower the price of a typical $1M new single family home by up to $150,000 (which includes the $24,000 rebate already being offered) and reduce monthly mortgage payments by roughly $ 921. That kind of change can unlock suppressed local demand and stabilize the pipeline.

What this means for builders and buyers: The incentive will most benefit buyers and projects that are ready to move and where industry, municipal staff and lenders coordinate timelines.

As Brent Klundert, President of BK Cornerstone Design + Build, notes: “The HST cut is such welcomed news! It will have a significant impact on sales of new homes across Windsor and Essex County. With the vast majority of new homes in our region priced under $1.5M, this tax cut will have a profound impact.”

Jeff Sylvestre of Lakepoint Homes adds: “For marginal projects, the rebate can be the tipping point—it turns a ‘maybe’ into a ‘go’ and keeps trades and suppliers working. That momentum matters for communities, not just individual projects. It’s also important to note that valuable people are leaving the trades to other industries, so that they can care for their families. It will take years to replace the loss of skilled trades when they’ve lost confidence in the building industry to provide for their families. This support couldn’t come at a better time.”

Local example: Consider a Windsor Essex subdivision where a developer is holding lots because marginal economics didn’t support immediate starts. With the rebate, several queued buyers move forward— that converts lots to builds, keeps framing crews and trades employed for months and supports local suppliers such as concrete, windows and landscaping firms. These are tangible, local wins that ripple through our economy.

To capture the opportunity, builders should:

• Confirm APS dates carefully—only APS signed between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027 are eligible.

• Document contracts and closing timelines clearly to support rebate administration.

• Coordinate with municipal planning and finance teams on permit timing and DC updates so eligible projects aren’t delayed. s

ADDITIONAL DWELLING UNITS (ADU)

• Communicate proactively with buyers and lenders about timelines and evidentiar y requirements.

At WEHBA, our role has been to advocate for effective policy and to clarify how government decisions apply in practice. Through OHBA (Ontario Home Builders’ Association), we pressed for broader retroactivity and more comprehensive design, but the program is the government’s construct—our focus now is implementation: helping members, municipal partners and buyers navigate eligibility and timing, and pressing for complementary municipal action on DCs.

A short checklist for municipal leaders includes to:

• Prioritize DC background study updates where possible to align with provincial–federal funding criteria.

• Expedite permitting for projects that meet APS eligibility windows.

• Communicate clearly with buyers and builders about required documentation to access the rebate.

Policy windows like this are short. The rebate can generate meaningful activity only if industry, municipal governments and buyers act in concert. Builders must prioritize ready projects; municipalities must be agile in permitting and DC background study updates; lenders and lawyers must align closing procedures; and buyers must act quickly where eligible.

Nait deJonge, Director of Operations at EverJonge Homes points out: “The reason this rebate works is simple: it doesn’t ask the industry to reinvent itself. The trades, the builders, the supply chains are all here and ready. The conventional pipeline can move immediately. Builders want to build and increase supply; an incentive like this gives us the conditions to actually do it.”

The government has been talking about what to do about housing affordability for years and it finally seems like they are listening to us. We’ve not seen an announcement like this in more than a decade. It’s time to get busy building—not just for business, but to protect jobs, sustain local supply chains and deliver the homes our Windsor Essex communities desperately need. WEHBA stands ready to support members and municipal partners through this transition. The data and regional estimates above show that with coordinated action, we can turn policy into homes and economic stability.

For more information or assistance in coordinating local efforts, contact WEHBA at wehba.ca/communication@wehba.ca.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

DR. MICHAEL DIGIOVANNI, the newest physician at Walker Family Health, is now accepting patients. After travelling around the world to study medicine, he has returned to Windsor to share his knowledge and care. Raised in Kingsville, Dr. DiGiovanni attended high school at Cardinal Carter before completing a Biomedical Sciences degree at the University of Waterloo. He chose to do med school in Anguilla—an island in the Eastern Caribbean—to study at the St. James School of Medicine where he learned about a new culture as well as medicine.

He decided to become a family doctor because “Family medicine allows a doctor to take care of not only the patient but their family and community which was very appealing to me,” Dr. DiGiovanni said. So, he moved back to North America where he completed his Family Medicine Residency at Southern Illinois University. Dr. DiGiovanni then worked in Brown City and Lapeer, Michigan as a family physician for the past four years.

In 2026, Dr. DiGiovanni returned to Windsor where he joined Walker Family Health alongside Dr. DiBartolomeo. He wanted to help fill the openings for medical doctors as well as move back to his hometown. “I wanted to be close to my family to allow my children to experience a true community,” Dr. DiGiovanni said. The two most important things to him are being a family doctor and being a family man. Dr. DiGiovanni has four children whom he loves to spend time with. Both he and his wife were raised to celebrate their heritage and learn about other cultures; Dr. DiGiovanni embraces this community mindset in both his homelife and his practice.

Since family and medicine are deeply connected, Dr. DiGiovanni uses a whole-person approach to healthcare. This method looks at the patient as a full system that includes any external factors—such as family dynamics and socioeconomic status—rather than just focusing on an isolated symptom. In doing so, he effectively treats long-term problems. Dr. DiGiovanni focuses on chronic conditions, primarily diabetes and hypertension. He also specializes in office-based procedures such as joint injections. Walker Family Health’s clinic was newly

built in 2023, has the most up-to-date equipment, and emphasizes patient-based care. Dr. DiGiovanni fits right in with this environment as he puts his patients first by educating them about preventive measures and extended health strategies to prioritize all-around wellbeing.

Dr. DiGiovanni ensures that his patients are happy while simultaneously creating a friendly work environment. According to Hailey, Practice Manager at Walker Family Health, Dr. DiGiovanni has “recently joined the clinic and has already made an incredible impact— we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community. He takes the time to truly get to know each patient, is down to earth, and shows a genuine commitment to providing outstanding care.”

Dr. DiGiovanni travelled around the world and returned to Windsor all so he could provide care to you and your family. If you or someone you know needs a family physician who prioritizes holistic and effective long-term approaches, apply to be a patient before spots fill up! You can call (519) 258-4293, email the office (info@dbtfamilyhealth.com), or walk-in to the clinic located at 2425 Tecumseh Road E, Suite 210. Walker Family Health is open from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm Monday to Thursday and on Friday until 12:00 pm.

Dr. Michael DiGiovanni

Preserved Natural Charm

Beautiful Moments in the Bruce Peninsula

STORY BY SERAFINA PIASENTIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TREVOR BOOTH

THE WORLD CAN rapidly change in an instant. The black-sand beach, Reynisfjara, in Iceland was swept away by eroding waves, altering the beach’s accessibility and appearance. But don’t worry if you never visited, for there is a place much closer to home and more importantly, just as naturally stunning, that you should plan a trip to.

Though you won’t find black sand in the Bruce Peninsula, you will find various geographical features including dunes, lakes, caves, forests, beaches, marshes and many, many unique rock formations.

The Bruce Peninsula is nestled on the east shore of Lake Huron—known as Georgian Bay—in Northern Ontario. It is referred to as the spine of the Niagara Escarpment, a massive rock ridge spanning from the Niagara River through Michigan and other neighbouring states. This protected area is a five-hour drive from Windsor and contains not one, but two National Parks. Clear, turquoise water, rugged dolostone cliffs—which date back 400 million years—as well as sprawling forests dominated by the Eastern White Cedar characterize the impressive Bruce Peninsula National Park. Just off the coast of the Peninsula’s point is the famous Fathom Five National Marine Park which holds more than 20 shipwrecks and many islands. Both National Parks offer a glimpse into Ontario’s wildlife, including 43 species of rare orchids such as the calypso lady’s slipper, as well as black bears, river otters and various hawks and owls. s

Opposite page top to bottom: Bruce Trail via Crane Lake trail heading north towards High Dump backcountry campsite; shoreline of Georgian Bay at High Dum backcountry campsite; Bruce’s Caves Conservation Area. This page clockwise from top: Sunrise overlooking Georgian Bay near Wiarton; view of the Milky Way in the Bruce Peninsula National Park; Devil’s Monument, north of Miller Lake on the Bruce Peninsula; local fungi spotted along the Bruce Trail.

The Bruce Peninsula is a playground for all kinds of adventurers who love nature. Beach combing for fossils, sea glasses and quartz is a popular activity, especially along the rocky coastline near The Grotto—a limestone cave off Georgian Bay. Make sure you find time to swim in the crystal waters and look for fish at the Singing Sands beach. If getting in the water doesn’t appeal to you, take a boat tour or rent kayaks to see Flowerpot Island—a towering, topheavy column of rock located 6.5 km from Tobermory—the postcard fishing village. If you tend to get seasick, plant your feet on firm ground and explore the hundreds of kilometers of trails in and around the entire region! The Bruce Trail is most acclaimed for its sweeping views of Georgian Bay. It is an 890 km trail that curves along the spine of the Niagara Escarpment, taking you up the cliffs and above the water. Though it is considered a moderate hike, be aware that the rocky ground can be uneven, and that in certain places, the cliffs do not have guard rails. However, there are many entry points, allowing you to turn back at will. For an easier hike, look into the Georgian Bay Trail which will lead you along the western edges of Horse Lake to the Grotto via wider paths. This hike intersects with the Bruce Trail while avoiding the more difficult parts. For a more moderate alternative, the Cyprus Lake Trail offers a 2.5-hour loop with serene inland paths that eventually wind to the rocky beach along Cyprus Lake. If a shorter hike is preferred, consider Little Dunks Lookout, a 25-minute walk to a platform view of the bay. The Bruce Peninsula offers hikes that accommodate all levels of hikers, ensuring an enjoyable experience for nature-lovers who come prepared.

If it is history that you are seeking, spend your time exploring the shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park. Many of these wrecks date back to the late 19th century when shipping routes through the Bruce Peninsula were rampant. Most of these ships were schooners carrying supplies from the lower Great Lakes to the lumber settlements around the Peninsula, such as Lion’s Head and Barrow Bay. However, since there were many storms, many shipwrecks occurred off the coast. Prevention efforts included the construction of Cove Island, Big Tub and Flowerpot lighthouses. These lighthouses and wrecks serve as artifacts of an archived history, and the cold water acts as a natural preservation method for the ships. Make sure you look beneath the transparent, turquoise waters at the

Sweepstakes, a two-masted wood schooner which sank in Big Tub Harbour in 1885 after being damaged off Cove Island or the Arabia, a three-masted barque which sank the year prior near Echo Island from a leak. And if you want to get even closer to these historical fragments, book a scuba diving or snorkelling experience. The Sweepstakes is shallow and accessible for beginner divers while the Arabia offers more of a challenge, being marooned deeper in the bay.

The Bruce Peninsula is not Reynisfjara beach in Iceland; however, it is still standing and it is just as beautiful if not more diverse. There are numerous activities for all ages and skill sets. Yet the truth about the passage of time is that it does not discriminate against what erodes. Flowerpot Island is constantly changing—slowly and imperceptibly—yet inevitably the waves, ice and wind will collapse the rock formation. In 2022, a similar rock formation called the Flowerpot Rock in the Bay of Fundy tumbled over in a winter storm. These processes are natural and normal; however, it may give you motivation to pursue your bucket list.

If you are thinking about visiting the Bruce Peninsula, avoid the tourist season of July and August. Crowds can detract from your ability to immerse yourself in natural beauty. Instead, visit in October; not only will you have the place to yourself, but you will also be surrounded by stunning autumn foliage. The world changes all the time—the leaves turn from green to gold—which is why it is so important to plan your trips in advance. If you want to see the fall colours, begin booking half a year prior, especially if you’re looking forward to camping in the backcountry— such as in High Dump which can only be accessed by a trailhead—as these campsites fill up quickly. You can’t prepare for sudden changes in landscape, but you can plan your trip well. Essentials for backcountry camping include a tent, sleeping bags and a keen eye on the weather to determine which clothes to bring. Ensure you are packing sturdy footwear and plenty of water and snacks. Even when travelling within your own province, ample research will ensure the difference between a smooth trip to remember, and a vacation turned close call.

Not everything in life can be controlled— like the collapse of a famous beach in Iceland or the toppling of a rock formation in the Bay of Fundy—but you can control which trips you book and how prepared you are for an adventure of a lifetime.

Elevated Retirement Living

Planning Your Gift Today, For A Brighter Tomorrow!

What motivates people to give? Those who work in Philanthropy and Fundraising understand that the key to engaging in meaningful conversations with donors and prospective supporters is a personalized approach to answering that question. Canadians are primarily motivated to give to charity by compassion for those in need, a desire to contribute to their local community and a belief that giving is a moral or social obligation. Key drivers also include personal alignment with a cause, tax incentives and the emotional benefit of feeling good.1 Given the key motivators, it isn’t surprising to learn that the traditional, most reliable donor in Canada for fundraising is typically over 55, often female, with a university education, higher income and religious involvement. Baby Boomers are currently the top source of income for non-profits, contributing

47% of all individual gifts, while women are often the primary donors and decision-makers in households. Charitable giving is evolving with increased engagement from younger generations and women driving future philanthropy.2

Democratizing Philanthropy: How You Can Contribute To a More Equal Society Using Your Will

Philanthropy can be unfair. There is a power imbalance that has left many charities – and the communities that rely on them—behind. The term “philanthropist” is often synonymous with the wealthy elite; people who can afford to give generously to the causes they care about. When giving power is concentrated among such a small group of individuals, it is only natural that some charities will

receive an abundance while others don’t. An interesting trend has emerged in the past three years: Canadians from all walks of life and financial standings have discovered that they too can give generously by donating through their Wills. And a greater number of them are doing it, opening the possibility for a more even distribution of donations.

Why Should You Care About Donating To Charity In The First Place?

When you think of all the services your community benefits from, it might surprise you to know that many would not exist without charities. Institutions like hospitals and schools rely on government funding for their operations, but even they need donor funding to support special initiatives like research and student support. Key issues like environmental conservation, access to affordable housing, and the fight for justice and equity are often tasked to charities. Support for the elderly, people living with a disability and newcomers to Canada is often provided by charities too. Not to mention arts, culture and recreational programs. Donations directly influence their ability to serve Canadians and protect the values we all hold dear.

The Problem With The Current Giving Model

Canadians are known to be generous; many donate their time, money or both to causes they care about. In 2021, tax filers reported giving $11.8 Billion to charitable organizations, with the median donation being $360.3 It’s clear that Canadians are eager to contribute when they have the means. The reality is that most of the charitable giving is done by a small percentage of the population. Making large donations was historically something that only the wealthy were able to do. With ample disposable income, they’ve been encouraged to share their resources by making generous contributions. The challenge with this model is that a small group of people hold the power to decide which charities receive the most donations. This fundamentally unequal process means some causes are left out of the giving pool. Indigenous organizations, for example, are chronically underfunded. “Just seeing the amount of philanthropic dollars that are distributed across the country, and where those dollars end up going, you would see that this is very much the case” says Emily Cabrera, Lead, Partnership Development at First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation, s

an Indigenous-led organization funding Indigenous languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC.

In 2021, only 3% of all donations on the giving platform CanadaHelps went to charities that contribute to Indigenous communities.4 “That’s less than 3% of donations for Indigenous-led solutions on climate change, health and wellness, youth initiatives and the braided knowledge of Indigenous arts, language and cultural heritage.” says Cabrera. “This is work that can benefit everyone, across all communities.”

Bringing Balance To Philanthropy

Democratizing philanthropy is the shift from top-down, elite-driven giving toward a model that distributes power, decision-making and resources to a broader, more diverse group of stakeholders, including community members and smaller donors. It transforms charity by empowering those closest to the issues, often historically excluded communities, to decide how funding is allocated. There are movements brewing around the world to democratize philanthropy so that a bigger group of people, from a wider range of socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, decides which charities are funded in their communities. One big shift taking place in Canada is that people are more savvy about the ways they donate. They are strategically planning their giving so they can contribute more generously. For example, increasing numbers of people are choosing to donate to charity in their Will. Why? Because even as little as 1% of their estate can make a big contribution to causes they care about. In fact, the average charitable donation in a Will is estimated to be around $35,000. This trend has grown dramatically in recent years. According to a poll conducted by Environics Research, there was a jump from 5% of Canadians reporting a charitable gift in their Will in 2019, to 8% in 2022. That’s 1.2 million Canadians that chose to leave a legacy gift in just three years. By 2030, the goal is to have 13% of Canadians leave a gift through a Will, generating $58 Billion for social good.

In the face of growing social challenges and environmental crises, people are more motivated than ever to make a difference. And with rising inflation and cost of living threatening their financial freedom, it makes sense that Canadians are finding ways to give back that does not use the resources they need now. s

Leaving a Legacy

Avoid Taxes. Avoid Probate. Protect Your Family.

Deschenes Partner

Your generosity can change lives for generations to come. By including the Windsor – Essex Therapeutic Riding Association in your estate plans, you ensure that people with disabilities continue to receive life-changing physical, emotional, and cognitive therapy through our fully inclusive and accessible equine programs.

Each week, nearly 200 participants gain strength, confidence, and renewed optimism—thanks to the kindness of donors like you. Your legacy can sustain these transformative experiences, empowering individuals through the healing connection of horses.

CREATE A LASTING IMPACT. Contact us today to learn how your legacy can provide hope for the future.

Planned Giving

If you’re a person who donates their time volunteering and promoting various causes but have traditionally considered financial support as out of reach, planned giving may be for you.

“Planned giving” (also known as legacy giving) means you create a charitable gift now that goes to the organization you love in the future, usually when you die. The easiest planned gift is part of your Will.

• A gift in your Will lets you make the gift of a lifetime to a cause you believe in—a gift you might not be able to afford while you’re alive.

• Most advisors will direct you to speak with your family, especially adult children. Explaining that your donation will offset taxes on the estate will help alleviate tension at time of death.

• Charities benefit from bequests because they allow those organizations to apply the funds to areas of greatest need or launch new initiatives they wouldn’t have been able to other wise.

• Anyone can make a bequest. The amount doesn’t matter—but supporting a cause you cherish, leaving a legacy of values as well as financial disbursements, matters a lot. It’s one of the most important things you can do to build the world you’d like to see.

How To Make a Generous Difference With Your Estate

Being more strategic with your giving requires you to think about mobilizing your resources in new and creative ways. Donating in your Will might be an unfamiliar concept, but when you investigate it, you’ll discover you can make a big contribution, without using any of the money you need now…and there are tax advantages too! How does it all work? Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions:

• Will I be taking away from the inheritance of my family? Not really. There’s room in your Will to support both the causes you care about and your loved ones. Even 1% of your estate to charity can be a s

END HOMELESSNESS

Providing sleeping bags, backpacks and hygiene products as available.

Daily hot meals for anyone in need.

Donations of stocks, bonds, shares in companies and mutual funds to Street Help can be processed through CanadaHelps.org! Just type STREET HELP on their website.

Thanks for all YOU do to help us help the homeless and hungry!

significant donation, and you still leave the majority for family.

• What if I don’t have the money? You might be surprised. Think of your estate (your home, your savings, etc.) now or in the future—let’s say that equals $500k. Leaving 5% to charity would be a $25k gift, and you still leave $475k as an inheritance for your family

• Will this be complicated? It doesn’t have to be. It can be as simple as adding your chosen charity alongside the other beneficiaries in your Will. Seek out the advice from a Wills and Estates lawyer on steps you should take to write or update your Will and include a charity. If you have an RRSP, you can simply add a charity as one of your beneficiaries. It takes only a few minutes!

• Are there financial benefits to giving this way?

Yes! Your estate is likely to receive a hefty tax bill. When you leave a charitable gift in your Will your estate will receive a tax donation receipt that can help reduce those taxes.

Where To Get Financial Advice About Planned Giving

It always helps to speak to a financial advisor before writing or updating your Will so you know you’re making the best plan for your estate. If you’re looking for financial advice to create your planned gift, talk to your financial advisor. If you don’t have one, you can find a list of financial advisors in your area who have partnered with the Will Power campaign – many who offer free consultations.

We have more power than we know. Collectively, we can make small commitments that can lead to great contributions for the causes we value most. With ethical, thoughtful and strategic estate planning, we can democratize philanthropy to fill the gaps in our communities and create a more equal society for all.

If you have a charity in mind—or even if you don’t—you can explore charities to donate to in your Will and see how they would use your future gift.

Visit www.willpower.ca for more information.

PLEASE

OUR MISSION:

To alleviate the personal and social consequences of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

OUR VISION:

A world without Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

To collaborate with local community to foster excellence in services, education and to support research. The society will also work with the Alzheimer Societies across Ontario for this purpose.

DAY PROGRAMS

The Adult Day Program is uniquely designed for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. Our clients enjoy social, physical and recreational activities led by qualified, specially trained staff.

IN-HOME RESPITE CARE

The Respite Care Program provides temporary in-home relief to the primary caregiver. It allows the caregiver to conduct personal activities with the assurance that the person they are caring for is cared for by a professionally trained respite worker.

SOCIAL PROGRAMS

We have many ongoing social programs for both those living with dementia and their care partners.

Planned Giving in Windsor and Essex County

A LEGACY THAT RESONATES:

The Drs. Lillian & George Mok Fund held at the WindsorEssex Community Foundation

The Drs. Lillian and George Mok Fund (the Fund), held at the WindsorEssex Community Foundation, continues the legacy of two remarkable philanthropists dedicated to uplifting the Windsor-Essex community.

r. Lillian Liu Mok was a highly respected physician and the first female paediatrician in Windsor. She cared for children and their families for over four decades, with a strong focus on adolescent health and an early commitment to addressing the growing need for paediatric mental health services. Dr. George Mok was a renowned radiation oncologist and Director of the Windsor Cancer Clinic, where he introduced innovative techniques in cancer care. He was deeply valued for his compassionate, holistic approach. A lifelong musician and patron of the arts, he also recognized music’s role in fostering creativity, confidence and well-being in young people.

n 2022, the Mok family partnered with the Foundation to create an enduring legacy in their parents’ memories, supporting initiatives that promote creativity, education and mental well-being of young people.

er the past four years, the Fund has supported the Greater Essex County District School Board’s String Project, expanding access to music education at a time of declining arts funding. Through this support, young musicians are building skills, confidence and brighter futures.

ith a portion of the Fund endowed, it will continue to support the Mok family’s commitment to community well-being and the arts for generations to come, reflecting their parents’ abiding influence on Windsor and Essex County.

REFERENCES

1. The Psychology of Giving: What Motivates Donors to Support Your Cause? Anchor Marketing, July 3, 2025

2. Harder, Michelle. DONOR BASICS | Why Demographics Matter in Fundraising, Hilborn Charity eNews, June 12, 2023

3. The Daily – Charitable Donors, 2021, Statistics Canada 2021

4 . The Giving Report, CanadaHelps 2022

Written by: Laurie Fox, MBA and Camille Armour Ross, MBA

Contributor: WindsorEssex Community Foundation s

A LEGACY THAT OPENS DOORS: The Lasting Impact of Robert E. Krivoshein

Robert “Bob” Krivoshein believed in one simple idea, that education changes lives. Richnie Beltran, current Odette School of Business student, is one of the grateful scholarship recipients.

A proud graduate of the University of Windsor’s Odette School of Business in 1969, Bob built a successful career with BMO Nesbitt Burns, but never lost sight of where he began.

He was intentional about giving back — focused not on recognition, but on impact.

In 1983, he established the Robert E. Krivoshein Entrance Bursary in Business Administration, quietly supporting students year after year.

Kelly Gosselin, Director of Advancement & Alumni, still remembers working with Bob to establish his planned gift that would become his legacy.

“Bob believed in the power of education to change lives and was deeply committed to ensuring students had the support they needed to succeed,” she said.

He remained closely connected to the University, regularly meeting with staff and taking a genuine interest in the students he supported.

“He had a genuine desire to help students thrive,” says Marian Doll, Director of Student Awards and Financial Aid. “His thoughtful philanthropy and quiet compassion have left a long-lasting mark on our community.”

That impact grew even further through a planned gift in his will.

Bob left a significant bequest to the University of Windsor, ensuring his impact would extend far beyond his lifetime. His gift supports his bursary and strengthening programs at the Odette School of Business.

Today, his legacy is felt by students like Richnie Beltran.

“Receiving this scholarship made me more confident going into my first semester,” she said. “It took a lot of the financial load off for me and my family. I really feel like I have support and a helping hand with me throughout this journey.”

With that support, Richnie is able to be fully present in her education. To engage. To grow. To imagine a future that once felt less certain. It has created opportunities that might not have been possible otherwise.

“You never really know what students are going through,” said Richnie. “Everyone has a different story. Scholarships like this can open doors.”

If given the chance, her message to Bob would be simple.

“I would thank him from the bottom of my heart,” she said. “I would tell him how much this scholarship has helped me, my family, and my success in my first year.”

For students, the impact is immediate. For donors, it is lasting.

Bob’s bequest in his will continues to open doors, strengthen education, and shape futures for generations of students.

His story is a powerful reflection of his belief that the legacy you leave isn’t measured solely by what you achieve, but in what you make possible for others.

To learn more about planned giving and how you can make a lasting impact, please contact the University of Windsor’s Advancement team: 519-253-3000, ext. 3229 or advancement@uwindsor.ca

WHERE THERE’S A WILL THERE’S A WAY

BY TOM PORTER B.A., LL.B.

There is a certain satisfying sense of immortality in hoping that you will be affectionately remembered after your death in the hearts and minds of your family and friends.

With effective estate planning through the use of a Will, you can also ensure that your priorities and sense of purpose in life will continue to benefit your loved ones and your community after you are gone. You are in control and your Will can specify your exact wishes including the naming of an estate trustee, funeral arrangements, beneficiary entitlements and gifts to your favourite charitable/community organizations. If you do not have a Will at the time of your death (an intestacy), you will have no control over the distribution of your assets and someone (usually your spouse or one or more of your children) will need to initiate a Court action

Estate Planning & Estate Administration

THE JOHN THOMAS FANCSY LEGACY SOCIETY

John Thomas Fancsy was an engineer, co-founder of Viewpointe Estate Winery and lifelong resident of Windsor-Essex. When he passed, John left a transformational gift of approximately $40 million to Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation to go towards the new acute care hospital.

John’s donation made regional history — as the largest known gift ever made in Windsor-Essex — and national history as one of the largest known estate gifts ever left to a single organization in Canada.

John made the decision to include the new hospital in his will before he underwent surgery for spinal stenosis at the Ouellette campus.

His recovery in hospital confirmed his decision when he experienced firsthand the limitations of the current facility, including tight, crowded spaces, shared patient rooms and limited privacy. John saw an opportunity for a new hospital with private rooms and modern amenities to better meet the community’s needs.

In recognition of his extraordinary generosity, the new hospital will be named The Fancsy Family Hospital and the Foundation’s legacy giving program was renamed The John Thomas Fancsy Legacy Society.

John’s legacy is a testament to his love for this community and the impact that planned giving has on the health and wellbeing of the residents of Windsor-Essex.

Everyone Benefits from a Gift Anyone Can Make

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Here’s How You Can Change Lives

Your gift will help us:

• Acquire new equipment & technology

• Ensure our new hospital will be a state-of-the-art facility

• Purchase comforting amenities for patients and their families

• Continually improve our facilities for the best patient experience

Leaving a Gift in Your Will

Leaving a gift in your will is simple and allows you to retain control of your assets. You can leave cash, securities, property or even a percentage of your estate.

Charitable donations can significantly reduce your taxable income and provide tax credits that can be claimed on your final return.

For bequest purposes, our legal name is Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation and our Canada Revenue Agency charitable registration number is 11930 0275 RR0001.

Members of The John Thomas Fancsy Legacy Society receive:

• Welcome letter

• Recognition on our Donor Wall

• An exclusive recognition item

• Invitations to special events, including our annual John Thomas Fancsy Legacy Society appreciation event

• Newsletter s with real stories from the patients and staff you are helping by suppor ting Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation

We’re Here to Help

Every legacy gift matters. Connect with us to explore your planned giving goals. We are just a phone call away.

Gisèle Séguin

Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation

Phone: 519-987-3160

Email: Gisele.Seguin@wrh.on.ca

NEW AND NOTICED

HIDDEN HEROES

Windsor Regional Hospital recently recognized their organization’s dedicated efforts to life-saving organ and tissue donations. As part of Be A Donor month, four individuals received the “Hidden Heroes” certificate, for their efforts regarding organ and tissue donation. Recipients from left were Mackenzie Clifford (RN), Dan Fraser (RN), Dr. Riley Jakob and Jennifer Jesso (RN). wrh.on.ca

CAESARS WINDSOR CARES PLEDGES AWE

Caesars Windsor Cares has announced their support of a program benefiting local seniors to happen at Art Windsor-Essex (AWE). $10,000 from Caesars Windsor Cares has made it possible for AWE to continue the sustained success of AWE’s Seniors Council that will host community-driven creative activities led by seniors, for seniors. Pictured from left were Karen Rockwell (AWE Seniors Council Member), Jennifer Matotek (Executive Director, AWE), Susanne Tomkins (Manager of PR and Communications, Caesars Windsor) and Kathy Bellamy (AWE Seniors Council Member). artwindsoressex.ca or caesarswindsor.com

CANAM CURRENCY IS MOVING THIS SUMMER

For nearly a decade, locals have trusted CanAm Currency Exchange for the best rates in Windsor (and across Canada) on foreign currency exchange and precious metals. President, Michael Piccioni, is taking things to the next level this summer when he moves to an exciting, upgraded building, designed entirely around his customers and their needs. The larger and better location at 3854 Dougal Ave. is a former bank building which adds space, security and provides a better overall layout. canamcurrency.com

WINDSOR ESSEX CHAMBER 150TH ANNIVERSARY

The Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce is proudly celebrating 150 years of leadership, advocacy and community impact. Originally established as the Windsor Board of Trade, later renamed the Border Chamber of Commerce and, in 1935, the Windsor Chamber of Commerce—today is one of the region’s oldest organizations built to champion the interests of the area’s business community. Now, 150 years later, Windsor’s long-time business booster boasts over 750 members, representing roughly 40,000 workers across the region. Pictured is Ryan Donally, President and CEO. windsoressexchamber.org

YOUR LIFETIME TEAMMATE

BECAUSE GREATNESS NEVER HAPPENS ALONE.

IT NEVER STARTS WH ERE PEOP LE think it does. Long before the contracts, recognition, or income, there are years built on discipline— early mornings, constant training, and commitment that often goes unnoticed. When the opportunity finally comes, it doesn’t happen slowly. It accelerates. Careers in sport and entertainment move fast, demanding full focus and performance at all times.

From the outside, it looks like success has been achieved. In reality, it is just the beginning of something more complex—where expectations rise, decisions carry more weight, and time becomes limited.

Because these careers are different.

Income isn’t steady. Opportunities shift quickly. Schedules move constantly between cities, teams, and projects. At the same time, athletes and entertainers are expected to stay completely focused, where even a small distraction can affect performance.

But most are managing all of this without the right structure in place.

“There’s always been support,” says Eric Wellwood, President of Sports & Entertainment Concierge at Stewart Fisher Financial. “But not always the kind that fits how these lives actually work.”

Wellwood understands this first-hand. He won two Memorial Cup championships with the Windsor Spitfires, played in the Philadelphia Flyers organization, and later became a coach. His career followed the same fast pace many athletes experience—until a serious injury brought it to a sudden stop.

That moment changed everything.

It showed how quickly a career can shift, and how important it is to have something stable behind you when it does.

At the same time, Stewart Fisher Financial CEO Richard Paliani had seen the same pattern. A former hockey player, and now a father to his son Devon who plays in the ECHL, understands both the drive and the pressure that comes with these careers.

What he saw wasn’t a lack of effort—it was a lack of alignment.

Athletes and entertainers are often surrounded by professionals, but those relationships don’t always work together in a coordinated way. Financial decisions, lifestyle demands, and long-term planning are often handled separately instead of as one clear strategy.

Two years ago, when Paliani and Wellwood met, that shared understanding turned into a clear vision.

SFF Sports & Entertainment Concierge was created to address that gap—bringing financial planning and lifestyle support together in one integrated system.

That vision has since drawn in respected names who recognized the same need for a more aligned approach.

Savannah Coffey — former NHL Alumni Association events coordinator and daughter of Hockey Hall of Famer Paul Coffey.

RICHARD PALIANI Founding Partner & CEO of SFF Group ERIC WELLWOOD President and Partner of SFF Sports & Entertainment

Lindsay Hoffard — Founder & CEO of Pro Hockey Development Group and former scout for the London Knights and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Todd Bertuzzi — Former NHL All-Star with over 1,000 games played across an 18-year career, including representing Team Canada.

Graham McPhee — Professional forward drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, AHL/ECHL experience and son of NHL executive and former NHL player George McPhee.

Each recognized the vision—and the opportunity to be part of something built to better support athletes and entertainers.

On the financial side, the focus is on creating structure— managing irregular income, protecting what is earned, and building long-term stability.

On the lifestyle side, concierge support handles travel, properties, and day-to-day logistics—removing distractions so clients can stay focused.

“ We come together as a team, so they don’t have to divide their focus,” Wellwood explains. “Because in this environment, you can’t afford to.”

Because while a career may be measured in seasons, life continues far beyond it.

And in a world that moves this fast, having the right structure—and the right people behind you—isn’t just helpful.

It’s essential.

It’s why the approach is built to last well beyond the moment—not just through a career, but through everything that follows.

That’s what it means to be a lifetime teammate.

ANN ARBOR Blues & Jazz FESTIVAL 1974

A Concert for the Ages That Turned Out to be a Beautiful Mess

STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND / PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MIKE EVANS

DO YOU REMEMBER the weekend that James Brown, BB King, John Lee Hooker, among other blues legends, performed in Windsor? Almost no one does. It happened September 6-8, Labour Day Weekend 1974. An upcoming documentary by Windsor historian and filmmaker, Mike Evans, tells the story of the Ann Arbor Blues Festival In Exile, which he describes as both a “concert for the ages” and a “beautiful mess”.

Mike first heard about the festival through his father, James Evans, a young Windsor Police constable at the time who was assigned to work the event.

“He wasn’t really a fan, it was just another weekend on the job for him,” Mike says.

The real question is: How did a world-famous blues and jazz festival end up being re-located from Ann Arbor, Michigan to Windsor?

It’s a funny-not-so-funny story.

The Ann Arbor Blues Festival began in the late 1960s and featured acts such as Muddy Waters, Ray Charles, Count Basie and John Lee Hooker, among other blues legends.

“By 1973, the festival had worn out its welcome in Ann

Clockwise from below: James Evans with a family friend’s child circa 1974; Junior Walker got so into the music, then he laid down to play his saxophone; Doris Biscoe Channel 7 News. Photo courtesy Avery Wagg; John Lee Hooker, a candid backstage photo; BB King with “Lucille”; concert poster/lineup sheet; One String Sam was a fan favourite in 1973, so festival organizers brought him back in 1974; Eddie Nuccilli, big band leader based in Detroit. Photos courtesy Richard Benkendorf.

Arbor,” Mike explains in the documentary’s narration. “Problems with litter, drug use and other overconsumption gave the city of Ann Arbor cause to not allow the festival back in 1974.”

Festival organizers found themselves on the horns of a dilemma: cancel the event or find another venue. They decided to move the festival out of the United States entirely and stage it in Windsor at the St. Clair College Amphitheater, dubbed “Griffin Hollow”.

Mike Evans has been interested in Windsor history for most of his life. In 2009, he started the YouTube channel ‘It Happened In Windsor’, which has garnered nearly three million views. He features quirky, often forgotten history about the City of Windsor. He has been unable to tell the

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story of the Ann Arbor Blues Festival in Exile because he has never come across photos or film footage of the event—until now.

After reading about Mike’s YouTube channel in local media, Windsor resident Richard Benkendorf contacted him about giving him some old film canisters. During their conversation when Mike picked up the canisters, the subject of the Ann Arbor Blues Fest came up. It turned out that Richard had a trove of images of the event.

“Richard brought the photos up on his computer,” Mike recalls, “and we went through them one by one. And then we came to a wide shot and off to the side, I saw my father, in uniform, standing at the edge of the stage.”

Beyond the ways in which those photos would pave the way for a film project, the moment was profoundly personal. Mike lost his father in 2017.

This began a cascade of contact with people who had photographs of the Ann Arbor Blues Festival in Exile. In all, Mike came into possession of more than 200 photographs of the event. A documentary about the concert now seemed feasible.

The resulting project is a comprehensive look at this singular Windsor event.

Going by the photographs of the weekend, one could be forgiven for thinking it was a roaring success. Organizers, however, took a financial bath.

“The festival had always been popular,” Mike explains, “but it was never a money maker. When they brought it to Griffin Hollow, they had to sell out all three days in order to turn a profit. That’s a tall order for almost anyone!”

The John Nicholas Band opened the show Friday night, followed by The Persuasions, an acappella group known for their energetic performances. After The Persuasions pumped up the audience, Sun Ra and his Arkestra took the stage and would later release the recording of their show as a live album. In a September 20, 1974 review, a writer for the Ann Arbor Sun wrote: “The Arkestra played, chanted, sang and danced for a solid hour and took the howling crowd on a relatively brief tour of some of the nearer planets and stars.”

The reviewer was even more unhinged describing The James Brown Revue, which closed the opening night.

The audience was comprised mostly of Americans. Canadian border officials had been apprised of the festival and were proactive in their efforts to ensure no drugs crossed the border that weekend. One publication providing information to concert

goers on where to stay in Windsor that Labour Day weekend informed readers: “Watch the Border! … Canadian and American customs officials have the legal right to search every micrometer of your body and vehicle…”

Strict scrutiny at the border coupled with a lack of advertising on the Canadian side of the Detroit River meant 90 percent of the audience at Griffin Hollow was American. Few Canadians attended. Which was a shame because it was a long weekend filled with great music: John Lee Hooker appeared on Saturday afternoon and BB King performed on Sunday night. There was also Johnnie Mae Matthews, one of two female performers to appear. Junior Walker and the All Stars were a surprise hit, Mike Evans notes in the narration—accompanied by excellent photographs of the performance: “Junior Walker got so into it that by the end of his set, he was laying on the stage playing his saxophone…”

Photographer Avery Wagg, interviewed in the documentary, recalls another interesting performance: “One String Sam was really good. He had to sit down too during his concert. He had a homemade one-string guitar… and he looked like about ninety…”

Mike’s narration explains that One String Sam was a Detroit musician who “played the diddley bow, a one-stringed instrument using an empty baby food jar as a slide.”

Plagued by poor attendance, noise complaints from residents in surrounding neighbourhoods, no alcohol being sold at the venue and a noticeable police presence at Griffin Hollow, the festival was a financial bust, but a genuine happening for Windsor. The festival should be legendary in local history, but it has mostly been forgotten.

Mike Evans’ documentary, Ann Arbor Blues Festival in Exile (1974), tells the story of this “beautiful mess” in full. The photos may be black-and-white, but the tale is pure Technicolour.

Mike is always searching for more photographs. In some pictures, people are seen holding movie cameras, so film footage was taken by someone… somewhere. It would add so much to the historical chronicle to unearth these.

For the moment, local history buffs can view a tantalizing trailer. What upcoming projects does Mike have in the works?

“I’m working on a doc about the Grand Marais ditch,” he says,” and a longer video about the history of the Norwich block.”

Check out Mike’s work at ‘It Happened In Windsor’ on YouTube: youtube.com/ @MikeEvansWindsor. WLM

A LEGACY REIMAGINED

IN THE WORLD OF OFFICE TECHNOLOGY, the only constant is change. Since its incorporation in 1988, Advance Business Systems (ABS) has navigated decades of evolution, starting as a small copier business and growing into a one-stop shop for IT office needs. Today, however, the company has reimagined its brand identity to reflect a bold new chapter—one that bridges nearly four decades of history with the cutting-edge demands of the digital age.

Inspiration for this rebrand came from a shift in ownership and vision. Mike Burnett, who has been with the company for five years, purchased ABS with his wife Stacy in October 2022. Since then, the focus has shifted from simply maintaining office equipment to becoming a comprehensive provider of IT and cloud-based services.

“Since taking over, we have been stressing change,” says Mike. “We have evolved along with our clients, which has taken us deeper into the IT space, offering computer solutions and cloud-based services. Everyone is using the cloud and digital storage now, and we realized that ABS had to pivot in order to be the ones serving this need.” He adds: “You either listen to your customers… or someone else will.”

ABS has expanded its team to over 40 employees—some of whom have been with the company for thirty years or more—significantly bolstering its IT department and even bringing marketing and web design in-house.

Whether it is installing 100-inch touch screens and laptop charging stations for a local union hall or running specialized CAT 6 cabling, ABS is solving modern problems with local expertise.

The company’s rebrand logo was launched in mid-November at their charity event supporting the United Way’s Ignite Academy.

“ABS began by providing copiers to businesses and I wanted to have an ode to this by showcasing a CMY diagram, but replacing the colours with this brand colour palette,” Mike explains. “The overlapping of the shapes created a trillium pattern, which I thought was fitting based on the fact that we service Ontario.”

He continues: “The rebrand shows that along with our changing products, we are changing too. It’s about moving forward with a fresh look that represents our new ownership and our versatility.”

ABS has differentiated itself in a crowded market by listening to its clients.

“ We don’t sell anybody anything,” Mike says. “We show them examples of what they need, not what they want. It’s all a matter of educating our customers. We present all the options to the client so they can make an informed decision. I ask the team to present customers with at least three options, so they can make the right decision for them”

This is not the easy way to do business, but it is definitely the right way

“ We listen to our clients,” Mike says. “We learn how they do business, listen to their needs and wants. We ask a lot of questions in order to learn their short-term as well as long-term goals, along with their challenges. Sometimes a client thinks they need the fastest, most expensive machine, but we might show them a more modest solution that fits their workflow better. Our goal is not short-term sales, but long-term relationships.”

This commitment to honesty and excellence has not gone unnoticed— ABS was recently named Dealer of the Year by Ricoh Canada.

“The future is unknown, but we are ready and able to pivot alongside our clients,” Mike says. “We’re excited to be the ones at the forefront, trained and ready to help our partners succeed for years to come.”

To learn more about Advance Business Systems, visit them online at www.advancebusiness.net.

BUSINESS

& nightlife guide

- LaSalle, South Windsor, Riverside, Tecumseh, Leamington.

erywhere you look, plenty of comfortable seating and the longest sports ticker around. Inside Caesars Windsor. 1-800-991-7777 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor.

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.

Nico Walkerville - More than just a bar and restaurant—it’s a place where history, flavor, and community come together. Stop in for a meal, a drink, or a celebration, and stay for the experience. nicowalkerville.com 325 Devonshire Rd., Windsor 226-674-1272

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.

JEFF LEMIRE’S TRAIL OF 10,000 Ink Stains

Graphic Novelist Looks Back on His 25 Year Career in a New Memoir

STORY BY MATTHEW ST. AMAND / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIS LEMPERA

GREAT IDEAS OFTEN arrive in disguise. Inspiration for an autobiography—10,000 Ink Stains: A Memoir, published by Dark Horse Books—revealed itself slowly to graphic novelist Jeff Lemire when his blog publisher, Substack, asked him to write a series of newsletter entries as a means of engaging with his fans.

“The cool thing with doing the newsletter, it’s a more direct connection with your fans than social media. For one, it’s more civil,” Jeff says with a laugh. “Doing the first few, what became chapters, I was encouraged by the feedback I was getting. I was connecting with people in a different way, otherwise it’s through the comics, but in this case it was going behind the work, talking about the process. It felt very gratifying.”

Offering a glimpse into the process of creating his work was new to Jeff.

“I’m the kind of person who’s really focused on whatever I’m working on at the moment and then I’m right onto the next thing,” he says.

How did he find this experience?

“It was good,” Jeff continues. “I don’t often look back at past work, but it was good to go through the old art and piles of sketch books and take stock.”

Often, the most important element that tips a notion into becoming a great idea is time. When Jeff was asked to write the Substack newsletter entries, he was forty-five years old. The time was right to look back at his life through the kaleidoscope of more than two decades of prolific output. There is no getting around the question: How did Jeff Lemire go from being a kid, buying superhero comics at the local convenience store in Woodslee, Ontario, to becoming one of the most popular comic book creators in Canada? His studio is a world away from the farm where he grew up and was first drawn to comics as a young child. Personal interest and inspiration were his only navigation tools.

“I didn’t have anyone in my family who was involved in the arts in any way,” Jeff told The Comics Journal. “Everyone in my family and surrounding me, they were either farmers or they worked in automotive factories. And yeah, the arts, having a life making art, I had no one to show me the way, how to do that. It just didn’t seem like a realistic thing. But I just loved drawing and I drew all the time.”

Jeff began drawing with pencils and ballpoint pens. In those pre-Internet years, there was nowhere to gain information about how comic book artists worked.

“I grew up on a farm, [had] no interest in farming or working in an auto factory or tool and die shop in Windsor, and only wanted to tell stories and draw and get away,” he wrote in a Substack newsletter.

“As I finished high school in 1995 I saw my window to escape via going away to University, and I took it. After a frustrating year in the Fine Arts program at the University of Guelph, I followed one of my best friends to Toronto where I switched to the Film Studies program at Ryerson University.”

After completing a degree in Film Studies, Jeff had little interest in the film industry. Comics were his passion, so he worked as a line cook in a restaurant and created comics in his off hours. That first work became Lost Dogs, which he self-published.

“I thought I’d work my day job, which was at night, and I’d work in kitchens to pay the rent,” Jeff said in an interview, “and then I would just do my comics as my passion, and I didn’t ever expect to make a career out of it.”

Through the span of nineteen chapters of 10,000 Ink Stains, Jeff focuses on the processes and the serendipitous connections that forged his route from project to project.

“Like the time I received an email from Gord Downie,” Jeff says, referring to the late lead singer of the beloved Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip. Jeff collaborated with Downie on the book Secret Path about the death of Chanie Wenjack, an indigenous boy, as he attempted to escape a residential school in the 1960s. “You can’t plan for that and it became an amazing project and friendship.”

Jeff is surprisingly candid about sharing the false starts, numerous early sketches, every idea he dreamed up, either alone or, sometimes, in collaboration with others. It comes together to form a picture of how he transformed from a Woodslee native into a bestselling author known as “the fourcolour Stephen King” as a 2016 Maclean’s magazine article referred to him.

What was the experience like sharing so much early unpublished work, and delving into the past for someone who is usually so focused on the present?

“Once you commit to doing this, you have to go through with it,” Jeff says with a laugh. “As for sharing, my work is personal, so I’m already pretty vulnerable. I’m used to putting myself out there, and letting it go out in the world and then moving on.”

He continues: “The thing with this book, it allowed me to put all the unpublished work in context. It wasn’t like posting it on social media where it just pops up. It really freed me.”

There were deeper motivations for Jeff to write this memoir.

“One, to have a testament for my son to read,” he says. “And there a few other things I wanted to touch on, like my ongoing struggles with mental health issues— particularly depression and anxiety. I want to show that you can live with those things and still build a life. You don’t have to let it win. You can push through, find a healthy outlet, and have a productive, successful life and career.”

He goes on: “I also wanted to demystify the creative process. A lot of people think it’s a magical thing, but it’s really just process and hard work. The more you do it, the better you get.”

Jeff Lemire is a prolific graphic novelist. Learn more about the sprawling catalogue of his work on his blog, Tales From the Farm: jefflemire.substack.com.

BY JOHN LIVIERO

CAESAR SALAD AND GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST

Dressing (mix in a blender):

• 1 garlic clove

• 1 egg

• dash of pepper

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 cup oil

Salad:

• large head romaine lettuce

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 cups croutons

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Tear lettuce into bite size pieces.

2. Add croutons

3. Add the dressing and toss to coat.

4. Add slices of lemon

5. Sprinkle with bacon and cheese just before serving

6. Top with Grilled Chicken Breast

Look Who’s Cooking At Home

Tracey Bailey

Serving as Mayor of the Municipality of Lakeshore and as CEO of the Community Support Centre of Essex County, Tracey’s work is rooted in supporting people and strengthening communities.

At home, life is grounded in family. Between busy schedules, shared meals and time spent together, it’s where she resets and stays connected to what matters most. Like many in the community, she treasures those simple moments—time with loved ones, catching up with friends, and being part of a neighbourhood where people look out for each other.

That sense of connection carries into her work. Tracey believes strong communities are built the same way— through relationships, trust, and showing up for one another, every day.

Grilled chicken and my mom’s Caesar—it’s our go-to. It’s easy, it’s fresh, and it just feels like home. “ ”

CLEARED FOR Takeoff

YQG CEO Mark Galvin Talks People and Possibilities

STORY BY KAREN TINSLEY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY SYX LANGEMANN

IF YOU SPEND even one hour with Mark Galvin, you’ll understand why Windsor International Airport looks and feels unpretentious, convenient, easy to navigate and deeply rooted in community.

Born and raised in Windsor’s Fontainebleau neighbourhood, Galvin says the airport “is in my DNA”.

“Growing up, we’d disappear for hours exploring creeks, catching crayfish and not returning home until the streetlights flickered on. Our parents had no clue where we went or what we did; they didn’t even ask,” Galvin laughingly recalls.

Holding degrees in both engineering and law from the University of Windsor, Galvin is an active member of both the Law Society of Ontario and Professional Engineers of Ontario. He also holds a Professional Traffic Operations Engineer designation, one of approximately 50 in the province. These details matter; Galvin is no parachuted-in executive; he’s 100% Windsor.

Previously general manager of the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel Corporation and director of plazas for the Windsor-Detroit Bridge authority, Galvin is also a public speaker, published author and serves on the Board of Directors of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare as well as Essex Powerlines.

Appointed CEO of YQG (Your Quick Gateway) in January 2020, Mayor Drew Dilkens praised Galvin as “uniquely qualified.”

In 2023, YQG celebrated 95 years of continuous existence. What began as a modest hangar in “the middle of nowhere” has evolved into a thriving regional, national and international travel hub.

As CEO of YQG for the past six years, Galvin laughs easily, speaks plainly and says, “I take what I do very seriously, but I don’t take myself seriously,” a line that says a lot about his leadership style.

Early in his career, Galvin realized that aviation and transportation were the perfect intersection of his skills. “Both are 24/7 professions and much of my expertise is relevant,” he explains. Each field demands precision, adaptability and a steady hand— qualities Galvin has proven he possesses in abundance.

His psychologist father shaped his leadership philosophy more than any management textbook ever could. Galvin speaks of him with quiet admiration, crediting him for the empathy and perspective he brings to work.

When talking about YQG, Galvin focuses on people and possibilities. While weathering global shocks, adapting and continuously connecting us to the world, YQG demonstrates a resilience and determination that mirrors Windsor/Essex itself.

When Galvin stepped into the CEO role at YQG on January 13, 2020, his vision lasted exactly 14 days.

“Any ambitions had to be put on the back burner because on January 27, 2020, that global curveball called COVID became reality. That date was my first team meeting and, pardon the pun, there just wasn’t a lot of ‘runway’ for anything else.”

Everything in the travel sector changed overnight. Passenger volumes plummeted. Business travel evaporated. Pilots retired in large numbers. ZOOM technology reshaped the working world.

Alongside 9/11 and the 2007/08 recession, Galvin describes the pandemic as one of the ‘touchstones’ of modern transportation. Each reshaped the industry, demanding “quick yet well-reasoned decisions” in moments of profound uncertainty. Certainty, the one thing every traveler counts on, transformed into turbulence.

Galvin’s calm, measured approach helped YQG navigate that turbulence.

Ask Galvin to describe Windsor Airport, and he doesn’t hesitate to invoke the phrase, which captures both YQG scale and spirit: modest in size, but mighty in determination.

Well known for hassle-free experiences and speedy passes through airport security, YQG embodies a friendliness that feels distinctly Windsor. “Our mission is to connect people to where they want to go; we always punch above our weight,” Galvin says.

And YQG boasts one of the longest runways in Ontario: 9,000 feet, which keeps it poised for growth.

Windsor’s unique border city vibe also shapes our airport’s operations. The economic rhythm (automotive, manufacturing, cross-border commerce, tourism) creates unique opportunities and challenges; understanding them and responding with agility are strategic YQG cornerstones.

Galvin explains, “We look where we can be successful, where we can find great destination offerings,” which has resulted in numerous partnerships and expansions that continues to strengthen YQG.

Post-pandemic, YQG partnered with new and existing carriers to launch new routes, aiming to strengthen connectivity. They also welcomed back Air Transat (with direct flights to Punta Cana), complementing the WestJet/Sunwing service to Cancun and Cuba. Finally, Porter Airlines launched direct Ottawa service and WestJet has increased Calgary service and Air Canada adding an additional flight to Toronto-Pearson.

Careful analysis, strong relationships and a deep understanding of what Windsor travelers want are the results.

“It’s the possibilities that excite me the most,” Galvin says.

And those possibilities extend beyond passenger travel.

It might be surprising that YQG is also a hub for cargo operations, pilot education and specialized aviation services. Often invisible to the average air traveler, all play pivotal roles in economic impact and sustainability.

One deeply interwoven thread through Galvin’s leadership is humility.

Not prone to self-promotion or jargonspeak, he exudes genuine warmth talking about the YQG team, YQG Board, its passengers, partners and community.

He’s quick to credit the people around him and always strives to bring value.

“At the end of every day, if I can say I brought value to YQG, I’m satisfied.” A simple statement that reveals a lot about Galvin’s character.

One of the most striking moments in this conversation with Galvin came when he reflected on the emotional landscape of air travel.

“There are a hundred different stories on every airplane: some people are traveling for business, some are heading to sip a cocktail from a coconut, some are attending a celebration, while others are trying to get somewhere quickly to care for or say goodbye to loved ones.”

This reminds us that airports represent the crossroads of human experience. Joy, grief, anticipation, exhaustion, celebration and transition happen at YQG every day.

Obviously, Galvin deeply understands that.

Our region is entering a period of profound transformation. The new hospital. The massive battery plant. The evolving automotive sector. Flourishing tourism. Burgeoning new industries.

Galvin sees YQG as a key player in that transformation.

Asked to describe the future of YQG in three words, it doesn’t take Galvin long to say “Resilient” and “Responsive”, but he’s still searching for the third. Maybe it’s “Ready.” Maybe it’s “Relevant.” Maybe it’s “Rooted.” But the sentiment is clear: YQG is poised for a vibrant future, and Galvin is ready to guide it.

Looking ahead, Galvin’s excitement about possibilities that could reshape Windsor/Essex is palpable.

And yet, something is silently simmering: Galvin’s belief in the people who keep YQG moving.

In the end, YQG’s story is about more than an airport. It’s about a hometown leader who sees resilience in his city, responsiveness in his airport and a bright future.

One thing is certain: under Mark Galvin’s steady, human leadership, Windsor’s airport is ready for whatever comes next.

For more exclusive content, go to

PAST AND PRESENT

Two Views of Walkerville: 1886-1970s

Born as employee housing for a burgeoning whisky distillery, the hamlet known first as Walker’s town evolved into a 19th century model community unlike any other in Canada, possibly even all of North America. Its benevolent dictator, Hiram Walker, conceived of everything to ensure the comfort and well-being of his denizens. From well-constructed and conveniently located housing to free clean running water and electric lights, paved roads, (long before neighbouring Windsor), fire and police protection, a public beach, schools, churches, ferry system, electric trolleys—and even a railroad—Walkerville had it, according to its founder’s tenets and decrees. Images from Walkerville Publishing, authors of “A River Runs Between Us- The Unique Shared History of Detroit and Windsor”.

Celebrate the Blessings

Debut Memoir from Linda Bisson

STORY BY MICHAEL SEGUIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY VITO CASELLA FROM XTRAORDINARY PHOTOGRAPHY

IT IS AN UNQUESTIONED work of nonfiction, yet is written with an enchanting, almost poetic lyricism. Its setting includes the fjords of New Zealand and the deserts of Arizona, but the focus never strays too far from the heart. It ultimately explores the great love between its author and her late husband Don, but rather than dwelling on his loss it instead celebrates each moment they spent together.

Moreover, Linda herself is a difficult woman to pin down. She has spent the majority of her career working in finance yet always maintained literary aspirations. As a child, her younger sister noticed her writing and encouraged her to compete in a short story contest. Linda declined, disinterested in the attention.

Imagine her surprise when her sister came home one day with a brand-new bicycle—the first prize!

“She entered my work and won!” Linda laughs.

During her fifty years working in finance, Linda penned several articles about her profession, many of which were published in magazines and newspapers.

Later, Linda became addicted to blogging after some encouragement from her grandson, who is himself also a writer.

“Don and I were always big travelers,” Linda states. “In 2013, we’d planned a two-month trip across North America on our Harleys. But my grandson was beside himself! He said, ‘We’re not going to know where you are or if you’re okay’ So, he set me up with a blog about our journeys.”

These stories formed the basis for what would eventually become Linda’s memoir.

Then, in November 2022, after 16 magical years at each other’s side, Don unfortunately passed after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Emboldened by this loss, Linda decided to compile her and Don’s life, love, and travels together into her memoir: Sixteen Years in Autumn.

What’s more, aside from being the central focus, Don himself was also one of the primary agents forcing Linda into her writing chair.

“I was intent on writing this book,” Linda states. “It helped me out of bed on those cold, dreary mornings after Don’s passing. But I had started compiling this novel together shortly before our final trip together—walking across Spain in the Camino de Santiago—

the year he died. He had been tremendously supportive of me. He said, ‘You’ve always wanted to write a book. You’ve got all the information! Just do it!’”

On his deathbed, Don made Linda promise that she would finish her novel.

“He was quite ill at the end,” Linda recalls. “I had read some of my early blog entries from our trips to him in the hospice. He told me I needed to finish the book.”

The novel—as all novels are—proved a significant undertaking. Linda’s first draft clocked in at over at what would have been almost 800 manuscript pages!

“I understand this thing people call writer’s block” Linda laughs. “Sometimes I’d sit down to type and I wouldn’t like how I worded something. I didn’t want to just state things so matter-of-factly, like I had in my blog. I wanted to bookify the passage. That became my new guiding philosophy. Bookifying. Sometimes all it takes is a single word or phrase to change the whole flavour of what you’re saying.”

“ It was tremendous therapy. It brought back amazing memories of those sixteen years. ” s

Thanks to the feedback from some early readers and a very

talented editor, she managed to pare it down to a much more manageable 400 pages.

“Halfway through that process, a friend met me with a designer who later made the cover,” Linda states. “That was hugely inspiring for me, as well. I didn’t know anything about publication, but I knew I would have to publish this book myself. That designer also connected me with a poet who edited the manuscript with me. Then the poet recommended a formatter! It was quite the process. I was able to gather this whole little team in my corner to make this book the best it could be.”

Ultimately, compiling her and Don’s travels into a manuscript proved an intensely rewarding experience for Linda.

“It was tremendous therapy,” Linda explains. “It brought back amazing memories of those sixteen years. I would laugh and I would cry. It helped focus me when I was in the throes of my grief. When I was off on vacation, I would sometimes sit by the water at night with a legal pad and just write down whatever words appeared to me.”

Sixteen Years in Autumn was released in December 2025. Thus far, reactions to the novel have been glowing.

Though while all the positive feedback, she’s received has meant a great deal to her, perhaps the most meaningful reviews came from those who knew Don themselves.

“My son and his wife live in Florida,” Linda explains. “So, I don’t see them as often as I would like. My daughter-in-law Teresa added a wonderful review to others on Amazon that reduced me to tears.”

“This is a wonderful memoir filled with honesty, reflection, and love,” Teresa writes. “Linda Bisson shares her life experiences in a way that feels very personal and relatable. Her stories about family, relationships, and the journeys we all go through in life are touching and inspiring. The writing is sincere and thoughtful, and you can really feel the emotion behind each chapter.”

“I called her that night and she said, ‘I meant every word of it, Mom!’” Linda recalls. “‘We feel you in this book. On every page.’”

Bolstered by this experience, Linda is already hard at work on her next novel.

“Don and I shared so much joy with each other,” Linda states. “I miss him so much. But rather than dwelling on the loss, I’d prefer to celebrate the blessings.”

Sixteen Years in Autumn: A Memoir of Life, Love & Journeys is currently available on Amazon. In addition, there will be a book signing at the Lakeshore Indigo on June 20th.