LaSalle
Photo Credit: Frank Michael Photography
Life by DesignLiving in Style with the Blairs...
N e i g h b o U r s o Fissue 15, october 2016
An exclusive community magazine serving the distinguished
neighbourhoods in LaSalle
2 Neighbours of LaSalle
Timeless Bespoke Interior Design
Residential and Commercial DesignSpace Planning
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LaSallebritiesBy John Weese
Why we Love Luke... in Praise of Double L.L. Willson
Standing backstage at the Windsor Bluesfest and minutes away from being introduced to the large crowd who had come to hear and drink the “Blues,” Luke Willson was appropriately attired. It was wardrobe comprised of a faded t-shirt and jeans, a great watch and an awesome pair of shoes. Fittingly, the look was casual, cool, and unpretentious. His shoulder length hair capriciously framed his handsome face and topping a strong, athletic looking body.
I had never met Luke Willson prior to this occasion. I figured that he had to be either a professional athlete or a Disney prince. I soon discovered that Luke is not only a NFL tight end with the Seattle Seahawks, but also “a prince of a guy.” As emcee for the event, I had the pleasure of bringing Luke on-stage to greet the audience. “Please welcome our resident Super Bowl hero Luke Willson!” I have to confess that the band that followed his appearance on stage could have only wished for an equal amount of applause.
Born and raised in LaSalle and part of a community oriented and sports crazed family, Luke Willson was a star baseball player in addition to starring for the St. Thomas of Villanova football team. Having to choose between baseball (where he was a member of the Canadian Junior National baseball team) and football, Luke left his contract with the Toronto Blue Jays in favour of football and attending Rice University in Houston Texas. He would star at tight-end for 4 years before being drafted in 2013 by the Seattle Seahawks.
In his rookie season, not only did Luke Willson score his first touchdown (against San Francisco) and play every game for the Seahawks, he and his team would capture the Super Bowl with a blowout victory over the Denver Broncos. Luke caught two passes that day on North America’s biggest sports stage.
LaSalle loves Luke and the feeling is mutual, as evidenced by his frequent returns to his hometown, his generosity to charity, and his time for family, friends and his adoring public.
3 OCTOBER 2016
PUbLiCatioN teaMPublisher: John Weese
Content Coordinator: Tonya Foote Designer: Jessica Morrill
Contributing Photographer: Frank Michael Hupalo
exPert CoNtribUtorsMario Ruggirello - Pinnacle Physiotherapy
Terry and Alynn Godfroy - Godfroy Financial GroupDan Garlatti – Garlatti Landscaping
Mike Crawley - Beyond by AerusMonika & Melanie - EHF
aDvertisiNgContact: John Weese
Email: [email protected]: 519-995-9279
FeeDbaCk/iDeas/sUbMissioNs: Have feedback, ideas or submissions?
We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 15th of each month. Go to
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iMPortaNt PhoNe NUMbers: Emergency ...........................................................................911Police Department .........................................................519-969-5210Fire Department ...............................................................519-966-0744Town Hall ...............................................................................519-969-7770Villanova Secondary ..................................................519-734-6444Sandwich Secondary..................................................519-734-1237LaSalle Public School ..................................................519-975-1823Sandwich West Public .................................................519-969-3899Holy Cross Catholic Elementary ......................... 519-972-6050Sacred Heart School ...................................................519-734-1255Monseigneur Augustin Caron ...............................519-734-1380Essex Power Lines (Hydro) ........................................519-776-8900Cogeco .................................................................................1-800-267-9000Union Gas ............................................................................1-800-571-8446Bell Canada ......................................................................519-310-2355LaSalle Taxi .........................................................................519-734-4444
sUbMissioN DeaDLiNes:Content Due: edition Date: December 15 ...................................................................................JanuaryJanuary 15 ........................................................................................FebruaryFebruary 15 .....................................................................................March March 15 ............................................................................................AprilApril 15 ................................................................................................MayMay 15 ................................................................................................JuneJune 15 ................................................................................................JulyJuly 15 ..................................................................................................AugustAugust 15 ..........................................................................................SeptemberSeptember 15 .................................................................................OctoberOctober 15 ......................................................................................November
November 15 ...................................................................................December
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John WeesePublisher
Letter from the PublisherGotta love October. It’s the potpourri month of the calendar year; a little bit of this; a little bit of that. It could be 85 degrees one day and 60 degrees the next. There’s nothing like jumping in the pool for one last cool-down after raking the leaves.
We tend to use most of our closet this time of year. We pull out the jackets and hoodies, but also reserve room in our closet for a pair of shorts and a couple of t-shirts. We keep an umbrella handy and change the plug in the snow-blower...just in case. Baseball ends, hockey starts and by mid-month Detroit Lion’s fans are already talking about next season.
It’s also the month when witches and trolls come of out of their holes. Mothers will rely on the minivan’s GPS to find the area’s best corn maze, ironically with the intended purpose of having their kids getting lost. Be sure to hurry into the Dollarama at Crossings to grab a mask and some decorations. Their Christmas stuff will be filling the shelves any day now.
We have a cornucopia of interesting stories and features this month. By design, we feature business woman Laura Blair and her hockey lovin’ husband and son for our cover story. We root, root, root for hometown sports hero Luke “Double L” Willson in our LaSallebrity feature. Jacked up on Tim Horton’s coffee, I accosted some local patrons of the neighbourhood coffee-shop, interrupting their gossipy gatherings to ask the “get off my lawn” crowd “Are you decorating the front of your house and handing out candy this year?” You can imagine how they responded.
After 25 years of professional broadcasting and at least that many years giving talks and conducting seminars, I joined the LaSalle Toastmasters. After getting nailed by the Wizard of Ahs, (umm, ah, ah...umm) talking past the stop light and committing some of the most heinous crimes of public speech, I was both humbled and excited by these lessons. I looking forward to becoming a Master instead of Toast.
You’re bound to enjoy this edition of Neighbours of LaSalle. It’s a great read. I sincerely thank our Content Coordinator Tonya Foote for her fine contribution and give credit to our designer Jessica Morrill, our photographer Frank and our many contributors.
If you do enjoy Neighbours of LaSalle and have some feedback for us, please contact Tonya or myself. Our email address can be found on this page. One more thing; please pay attention to advertising and look for ways to patronize our many sponsors who make this magazine possible.
Happy Thanksgiving, Halloween, and leaf raking!
4 Neighbours of LaSalle
Resident Feature
Life by DesignLiving in style with the blairs...
Creating rooms by design to last a lifetime! Coaching and working hard. Collecting memories and learning life lessons. The Blairs are a power-house bunch, sports oriented, and have lots going on! A real treasure to the LaSalle community.
Kirk, Laura, and Cole Blair - A small but mighty family of three and always on the move!
Kirk and Laura have been married for 15 years. The story of how they met is one for the books! Kirk left his very first business card on the windshield of Laura’s car, she later phoned him to inquire about what kind of business he was interested in... The rest is history. 20 years later
they both have new business cards and a few more accreditations.
Kirk is a successful Director of Sales in the Transportation segment of ATS Automation Inc. and a licensed Level Three Trainer with Power Edge Pro Hockey. Kirk’s passion and drive, developed through sport, education, coaching, and business, is evident in his hockey training curriculum. Kids love the reactive countering techniques! Parents definitely see the improvements in player’s skills after training with the program developed by Joe Quinn and made famous by NHL phenom Connor McDavid. “It’s tough to get the kids off the ice, they love it!” says Laura.
By Tonya Foote | Photo Credit: Frank Michael Photography
5 OCTOBER 2016
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Laura is very busy these days at Coulter’s furniture where she operates her own Interior Design business, Laura Nicole Design, specializing in Residential Interior Design and 3D Custom Kitchen Design. Whether you are starting out and building new, or downsizing to condo living, Laura can take you from start to finish: “Detailed, creative, and delightful to work with, Laura makes magic happen!” Laura is a woman of colour and elegance! “Make each day your masterpiece,” is Laura’s motto (and makes up her nifty home office wall art too!)
When not working Kirk and Laura spend all their time with their son Cole, they are his number one fans! “If you close your eyes while talking to Cole you would think you were talking with someone much older than 10 years old. He has an old soul, is quick witted, and funny,” says Laura. Cole makes life fun at the Blair house! He is 100 percent a sports guy- Hockey, Baseball, Soccer, and Squash (in that order!) Cole will tell you he loves it all. Although, he has never really been artistic like his Mom, Cole and Laura are great “picking mates,” as Cole calls it. To Laura it will always been antiquing. Cole has built quite the treasure collection, including old Coke bottles and sports items.
B.C, before Cole, as they say in the Blair house, Laura did a lot of volunteer work. Some of her favourite experiences came from working with Big Sisters and Hearts Together for Haiti. This mom and business woman has sponsored many charitable events including: Hospice Under The Sea Gala, Windsor Cancer Foundation Twelve Cocktails of Christmas, and (very proudly) this year’s LaSalle Sabres AA Atom Major hockey team! Cole has picked up on this along the way, paying it forward, donating his birthday presents regularly to Ronald McDonald House. He is always excited and ready to participate in the many fundraising activities his sports teams organize; from garage sales to car washes and more!
Proud LaSalle residents, Kirk, Laura, and Cole, have found themselves relocated to their beautiful neighbourhood in LaSalle from South Windsor. “Life here is family friendly living,” says Kirk. The character and style of their one-of-a-kind custom home designed by Laura herself and is a quick ten minute walk down the trail to Meme and Pepe’s house! The Vollmer Complex is also nearby; where of course, they spend a lot of their time.
The Blairs are a well designed family- keeping it fun, dreaming big, paying it forward, and working hard. Together they make a great team! Do you know someone in the neighbourhood who has a story to share? Nominate you neighbour to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at [email protected].
6 Neighbours of LaSalle
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History is a wonderful thing and many times due to progress, the only memories we have left of our precious natural treasures, pictures, and stories.
LaSalle residents are very fortunate to have Ojibway Park in our back yard; if things had fallen into place as planned the beautiful natural prairie in LaSalle would be a bustling steel community much like Pittsburgh or Allentown Pennsylvania.
The history of the Ojibway Park is almost as old as time itself with several prehistoric aboriginal sites as ancient natives would set up seasonal camps.
Interestingly enough the word Ojibway comes from the word “otchipwa” and means “puckered” in Algonquin, referring to the puckered seem of the Ojibwa moccasins.
Fate stepped in to preserve the beautiful prairie in 1913 as the United States Steel Corporation came to Canada with great expectations as they bought up 1,400 acres of land which would have encompassed the land which is now Ojibway Park. They had planned on turning it into a concrete jungle where thousands of U.S. Steel workers would live but the start of World War I put a halt to the development.
In 1937 The Dominion Steel and Coal Company purchased the property and did produce some steel but it was again thwarted by war as World War II started and most steel went to military use. Ojibway Park was used to test some military vehicles but was never fully developed for its intended use.
1957 was a big year for the prairie land as Dominion closed up shop and sold the property to the Canadian Salt Company. The City of Windsor stepped in and bought the property in exchange for mineral rights under the Malden landfill. A few months later in 1958 Windsor declared that 100 acres would be preserved as a natural park and woodland area.
In a time where progress is measured in strip malls and industrial parks we in LaSalle won the lottery as instead of concrete and steel we can enjoy the beauty of a land that our forefathers said was once ripe with elk, deer and bears.
Real progress is ours to enjoy!
Visit the Ojibway Nature Centre for more incredible details!
By Gary Patterson
Ojibway Prairie - A Miracle Gift
7 OCTOBER 2016
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Let’s begin with my first real sailboat. My Grandfather knew that the next adventure on the water was to learn to sail. I was to qualify by swimming across the eastern channel of the Detroit River- just off our canal, about 150 yards wide housing a strong 4-knot current. So to swim across you must swim fast at a long angle or you are swept downstream - not fun! There and back he was in a canoe with me. Success - now came a brand new Peterborough cedar strip 12-foot gaff rigged sailboat.
Shipped in a crate, he said,“Here it is - do what is necessary to use it well.” No instructions, here we go.
Each piece was a new adventure; challenge was there to be savoured with each new mistake and recovery!
Finally, we are rigged and heading down the canal. My friend George Cohan and I hit the river and wow, the surge of ecstasy hits a spot that cannot be erased.
What makes things go forward are a paddle, sculling the tiller, and wind power. A south wind let us sail out of the canal into the river that had more wind available. We found out very quickly that unless you figured out how things worked, you would be tipped over. Not good. Sliding sideways with the centerboard down, facing the wind was a mess. Soon we had a sharper knowledge of how to sail a boat. Every time out was a class led by the boat, the wind, the wind direction, and doing the right move at
the right time. As time went on we were able to grow sailing knowledge, no “Google” stuff. Reading about boat design, America’s Cup events, local sailing at The Detroit Yacht Club on larger boats fuelled the desire to own larger vessels.
1954 I met the love of my life, Doris Crawford. While courting in the old fashioned style our conversations included; if we would marry, I must include teaching Doris how to sail and snow ski. We agreed after she accepted our engagement ring.
Over many years we created a wonderful family. Living in the country with few children to play with, we created an oasis of recreation on our canal. Sailing in spring summer and fall was a very active and productive activity, enjoying increasingly larger and more sophisticated vessels. There were no teaching sessions, no marks, just take the opportunity to do what was necessary to learn each part to play. They got very good. The ship and dock lines were “flemished” properly in “Bristol Fashion.” To this day I am so proud that our family used the lessons of life offered by Doris and me to conduct a moral and ethical pattern for their own families.
Robert Clark’s Scrapbook sailing - a treasure of MemoriesBy Robert Clark | Photos Submitted by Robert Clark
8 Neighbours of LaSalle
LasaLLe reaL estate ListiNgs - sePteMber 2016
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
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“The response of an organism to a stimulus” - when something happens to an animal (the stimulus) it reacts by doing something (a behaviour). The first thing to understand is that all of us, mammals, birds, reptiles and fish follow certain similar patterns of behaviour. We seek reward and avoid punishment. We - at least mammals - experience similar emotions.
All dog owners experience behaviour problems at some time during their pet’s life. Whether these are major or minor, find a source of good advice to help deal with problems quickly before they become bad habits. It is always important to solve the problem for the dog rather than just treat the symptoms. Long lasting cures involve finding out why your pet has a specific behaviour problem and trying to find a way for him to get the same reward from a more appropriate behaviour. Long lasting cures often take time. If your dog is having a “behaviour problem” it may indicate that he is experiencing stress due to things in his environment causing anxiety, loneliness, boredom or simply that he doesn’t know what will please you.
Quick fixes that involve punishment are never a good idea and although they may seem to work temporarily they often cause more problems than they solve and usually damage the relationship between dog and owner. If your dog’s problem is stress, punishment will increase the level of stress. There are, of course, problems that are due to people’s perception of the behaviour - behaviours that we do not like that from the dog’s perspective are normal and desirable. There are Universal problems, for example, toilet training in puppies, and then there are real problems to the dog himself...
If you would like to read the rest of this article or to hear more from Maggie, check out our Facebook page - just search “Neighbours of LaSalle Magazine”!
10 Neighbours of LaSalle
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Friday October 7thThe Addam’s Family: A New Musical Comedy8pm @ The Kordazone Theatre Located at 2520 Seminole Street, Windsor Tickets $20 for general seating Visit cardinalmusicproductions.com for details and tickets
Saturday October 8th Windsor Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm @ Pellissier and Maiden Lane
Sunday October 9th Bike the Bridge 7am @ Assumption ParkLocated on Riverside Drive, WindsorA 20-mile ride through Windsor Passports are required
Wednesday October 12thPublishing 101 Workshop Partnered with BookFest Windsor 6:30-8:30pm @ ArtSpeak Gallery Located at 1942 Wyandotte Street East
Calendar of Events october 2016
Friday October 14thTheissen Haunted Barn Dusk until 10pm @ Theissen Orchard, Leamington Located at 400 Talbot Road East Not recommended for young children Tickets are $12, corn maze is $10, $20 for both
Monday October 17th Celebrate the LightAffiliated with RSVP Ministries 10am-3pm @ Colassanti’s Tropical GardensLocated at 1550 Road 3 East Will feature Musician and Speaker Susan Baresich Tickets are $20Call Sharon at 519-326-0421 or Barb at 519-326-7631
Friday October 21st - Sunday 23rd Haunted Greenhouse and Horror Hedgemaze 10,000 square feet of scares! 6pm-Close @ Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens Located at 1550 Road 3 EastNot suitable for children under 12Ticket $12.95 + tax
Saturday October 22ndCelestial Things Paint Party 5pm @ Milk Coffee BarLocated at 68 University Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door Call 226-674-0667Art supplies included
Saturday October 22ndDark Sky Night7pm-Midnight @ Point PeleeLocated at 1118 Point Pelee Drive Enjoy a night of stargazing
Thursday October 27th - Sunday 30th Ghost Tour at Fort Malden National Historical Site Located at 100 Laird AveTickets $9.80Call 519-736-5416 for more information Not suitable for young children
Thursday October 27thA Night out in Handbag Heaven 4pm @ Giovanni Caboto Club Located at 2175 Parent AveA handbag auction to raise money for healthcare
Friday October 28thWindsor Life Centre’s “A Night to Shine”6pm @ Giovanni Caboto Club Located at 2175 Parent AveGala will benefit Windsor Life’s long-term residential recovery program for women struggling with drug and alcohol addictions Saturday October 29th - Sunday 30th Bright Lights of Broadway 8pm @ The Capitol Theatre Located at 121 University Ave West Call the Capitol Theatre Box Office for tickets and details
11 OCTOBER 2016
Presents
HIGH SCHOOLREPORT
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5841 Malden Rd.519-969-1686
Hot Off the Press!October is going to be a sweet treat for LaSalle students as Halloween and Thanksgiving approach! Time will be well spent with their school communities, their families, and their friends.
Football is back and hockey is on the way! Stay tuned for when the schools will go head-to-head.
Villanova hockey tryout will begin mid-month. Coach Kyle Bezaire is looking forward to a good year with exceptional skill and hopefully a big trophy!
October 10th is a holiday, which means no school but lots of turkey!
Friday October 28th is a P.A. Day for our secondary schools.
The drama departments are lining up the plays for this year - details will be released soon.
We asked our local high school students what their goals and thoughts are for this upcoming year.
Their answers:
“To get better grades” - Grade 11, Villanova
“I want to join more clubs and make meet new people” - Grade 10, Villanova
“Tryout for the hockey team” - Grade 9, Villanova
“The robotics club is really cool, I would like to check that out soon”- Grade 9, Sandwich Secondary
“I want to go to more of the football games” - Grade 12, Sandwich Secondary
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12 Neighbours of LaSalle
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Oh the Horror!!! This is Halloween... 1990sCheck out these Little Pumpkins
Photos Submitted by: John Weese and Mikayla Wigfield
“The haul of candy was large... Each one would handle the “loot” differently - trades were handled like a market place - I like this - you like that - we trade! When the Halloween buzz came alive in LaSalle - the highlight was to find corn stalks, gourds, pumpkins, and a stash of goodies for our family to dole out to visitors from the area and to try to guess who they were!” - Robert Clark, Halloween Late 1950s
13 OCTOBER 2016
PerForMiNg iN oUr area: here is the Fall and Winter
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oCtober
2nd Alice Cooper Caesar’s Windsor, Windsor
6th KONGOS St. Andrew’s Hall, Detroit
7th Engelbert Humperdinck Caesar’s Windsor, Windsor
15th Sia The Palace, Auburn Hills
21st Cute Is What We Aim For The Shelter, Detroit
22nd Hunter Hayes Fox Theatre, Detroit
24th Red Green Migration Hall, Kingsville
29th Luke Bryan Ford Field, Detroit
30th Billy Ocean Caesar’s Windsor, Windsor
NoveMber
2nd T.I. Joe Louis Arena, Detroit
5th Yellowcard The Fillmore, Detroit
6th Sean McCann Olde Walkerville Theatre, Windsor
11th The 1975 EMU Convocation Centre, Ypsilanti
11th Balance and Composure St. Andrew’s Music Hall, Detroit
13th Styx Caesars Windsor, Windsor
17th Marianas Trench with Shawn Hook Caesars Windsor, Windsor
18th The Fray The Fillmore, Detroit
19th Mayday Parade The Shelter, Detroit
20th Silento The Fillmore, Detroit
14 Neighbours of LaSalle
I always love and appreciate the moments presented by Thanksgiving. It is my favourite holiday; relative to other holidays it is not overdone by costume or pageantry or gift-giving. It simply and plainly invites you to take personal inventory and be thankful for your blessings.
My blessings are my family, and each of my five children will be returning home for Thanksgiving. It is amusing that just seconds after they arrive and bestow the obligatory hug upon their mom and dad, they will look for our dogs. There is nothing I can do to slow down this procession… Jackie and Trixie will make their way to the door to reunite with their long lost pack members and there is nothing I can (or would) do to stop them.
I see great irony in this, given I am a dog behavioural trainer by profession and have convinced thousands of dogs over the years to halt their strong move toward an active front door until invited by their owners. Under normal circumstances this would work in my household as well, but when my dogs see their human brothers and sister, no command of mine slows their move forward.
Jackie, our strong-willed 13 year old Jack Russell mix has taught us that companion dogs can play an important and emotional role in the daily life of a household and in the long story of each dog owners life. He has comforted my kids when they were sick, protected them when they were at risk (at least he thought they were at risk) and made us laugh a thousand times over.
Trixie, a shy seven year old Cairn/Chihuahua rescue from Tennessee, has taught us to be patient and understanding, and we marvel at her courage as she moves forward confidently as my children arrive, when once upon a time she would have cowered away alone under a chair or bed.
By necessity the day may come when my home doesn’t have dogs within it, and that day will be a sad one. Where else would I find the loyalty, companionship and range of emotion offered by dogs every day? They enrich our lives and I am thankful for them.
Stuff the Turkey, But Not The Dog!Are you one of the 56% of dog owners who admit to giving their dog table
scraps from Thanksgiving dinner? After all, who can resist turkey and sweet potatoes?
say Yes to: • Actually, turkey meat is a great source of lean protein for your dog once
you remove the fat, skin and bones. Cut it up into small pieces and choose the white meat over the dark because it is easier to digest.
• Dogs can also eat a small amount of cranberry sauce (watch the sugar intake)
• Fresh vegetables like plain green beans (not green bean casserole) can be good for your dog.
say No to: Unfortunately, this list is longer. For your dog’s safety, avoid: Onions, garlic, leeks or scallions
• Potatoes with excess butter, cheese, sour cream
• Grapes or raisins
• Cooked bones (too brittle)
• Gravy (substitute turkey broth)
• Chocolate
• Artificial sweeteners
• Alcohol
• Unbaked bread
• Sage
A small amount of table food probably won’t hurt your dog, but don’t feed them from the table and don’t let them overindulge or they could become quite ill. If you have trouble resisting their begging smile, try trimming some turkey into several dime-sized pieces and toss them around your fenced backyard so that they can hunt. It will keep them occupied for hours!
By Grady O’Flynn
Thanksgiving… Includes Dogs!
15 OCTOBER 2016
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Coffee Shop Confidential
By John Weese
Dollarama never fails to remind us that Halloween is right around the corner, both figuratively and literally. This year they had the good taste to wait until the first week of August before dedicating two rows of their store to display skulls, witch hats, monster make-up and such. Seems not everybody is “jacked” about jack-o-lanterns and all the chills and thrills of Halloween. For this issue, I canvassed the local coffee shop to get a sack full of opinion on the annual trick or treat.
are you decorating your house and passing out candy this halloween?
Cream & Sugar – “Of course, I look forward to seeing the kids. I even dress in a costume to answer the door.”
Black – “Yes, but I wonder why we still do it. There are hardly any kids at the door anymore. That’s why my wife and I stock up on the snacks and candy we like to eat.”
Milk & Sugar – “No! We’re new to the area and don’t know the local kids. Besides the lady who lives next door is elderly and we don’t want to spook her with a bunch of kids coming around.”
Double-Double –“l wilI decorate a little bit but I won’t answer the door. I don’t feel safe.”
Cream Only – “We’re leaving town to my daughter’s house in Amherstburg. We answer the door while they take our grandkids out to trick or treat.”
Sweetener only – “Probably, but the problem is that I never know how much candy to buy. We don’t get the kids we used to get.” I get bored, so I get dressed in costume and visit our friends’ houses for beverages.”
16 Neighbours of LaSalle
For Over 25 Years
• Landscape Design
• Landscape Construction
• Landscape Maintenance
• Property Maintenance
• Snow Removal
• Special Services
• Tree & Shrub Planting
• Pond & Water Features
Now Fence & Decks(We’ve merged with Cedar Springs)
519•734•0444 | 8455 Broderick Road | garlattilandscape.com
Expert Contributor... From the Professionals at garlatti Landscaping
Can you imagine not having a lush green lawn to admire in the backyard of your home? Once thought to be an unfathomable notion, a growing trend is to eliminate as much of that turf as possible in favour of more hardscaping solutions. We are certainly seeing this trend take root in our own backyard (Windsor and Essex County) to some degree. To a much larger degree, we are learning of this trend taking place in larger urban areas and particularly in parts of the country where home owners are experiencing a lack of precipitation and more drought like conditions.
Maintaining that big thick green patch of lawn is not easy. You are of course at the mercy of the weather. You also have to factor the time of cutting, weeding, watering, fertilizing, and in some cases, rolling the yard. Not only is time an issue, but let’s not forget the cost. Environmentally considerate folks will remind you of the vast amounts of water and sewer waste (and cost), the contamination of the watershed with chemicals. A bit to the extreme, they will also note the noise pollution of the lawn movers, the gas usage and the emissions from the exhaust. Indeed it can be “exhausting.”
Not only will proponents of “ripping out the lawn,” (or greatly minimizing its percentage of the outdoor property) sing the praises of saving time and being helpful to the environment, they will argue that over time, the math works in the favour of hardscaping. The initial cost of building decks, laying patio stones, creating gardens, adding trees and fountains etc. may be daunting, but when compared to maintaining a healthy lawn over a number of years including the cost equipment it may be closer than you think. You will also have to factor in the increased value of your property that you will likely enjoy with the hardscape upgrades and magnificence to the look of your property.
Regardless of whether you are a fan of green grass lawns or you’re contemplating a hardscape solution for your property, the professionals at Garlatti Landscaping Inc. are knowledgeable, trained and experienced in all areas and aspects of helping your outdoor property dreams come true. Give us a call at 519-734-0444
What is happening to the green, green grass of home?
17 OCTOBER 2016
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Did Someone Call for a Doctor? By Tonya Foote
Naturopathy at its Finest... Dr. Elizabeth Yaworsky, ND, is now providing valuable health consultations and naturopathic care for LaSalle residents!
Natropathic medicine is a blending of natural and traditional forms of medicine with those of modern medical knowledge and is used to treat chronic and acute health conditions while focusing on illness prevention. Naturopathic medicine is a comprehensive based approach to sustainable wellness, combining knowledge of emotional, physical, and mental aspects of your life.
Dr. Yaworsky offers many different types of treatments including: clinical nutrition, lifestyle counselling & stress management, traditional Chinese medicine & acupuncture, botanical medicine, homeopathic medicine, hydrotherapy, and physical medicine.
She began with a degree at the University of Windsor in Biological Sciences with Thesis and a minor in Mathematics, graduating with Great Distinction in 2009. She then received her Bachelor of Naturopathy Degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2014 and has been practicing in Windsor since 2015 at East Windsor Massage Therapy Clinic. She also teaches Pilates!
Dr. Yaworsky offers 15-minute phone and in-office consultations at Global Wellness Chiropractic & Laser Centre in LaSalle!
You can visit the Global Wellness Centre Website at www.global wellnesscentre.com or email [email protected] to book an appointment or to find more great information about her services!
18 Neighbours of LaSalle
Call today for a stress free, no obligation consultation:
519-258-1995
TERRY GODFROYMORTGAGE AND INSURANCE SPECIALIST
ALYNN GODFROYFINANCIAL ADVISOR
www.godfroyfinancialgroup.com1100 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh
• Retirement Planning
• Tax Planning
• Insurance Solutions
• Estate Planning
• Buy-out Assistance
• Financial Planning
• Mortgages
Check out our NEW Blog!
www.our2cents.ca
We are Brokered with
Over 20 Insurance Companies
in Canada!
Expert Contributor... Profitable Advice from the Professionals at Godfroy Financial Group
In our financial planning practice, we come across clients that are concerned about what will happen with the inheritance money that they leave for their loved ones.
If your investments are structured with an insurance company in a Segregated Fund or an Annuity, then you can set up something called an Annuity Settlement Option (also known as a Gradual Inheritance Strategy).
If your child or beneficiary is not particularly good at managing money, then the strategy may be advantageous for your situation. You can set up the frequency and payment amounts that they will receive on a regular basis.
For example, you may elect to have your son Johnny receive $500 per month until the investment funds you have left for him run out. Perhaps your daughter Sarah is very good with money and she can handle a lump sum payment of money. You can set it up so that your beneficiaries receive the money in a way that is most comfortable for you.
advantages• Your beneficiary designations and settlement options can be set up,
changed or removed at any time without you having to pay any
additional fees or costs.
• You can accommodate multiple beneficiaries and can address each of their unique needs.
• It ensures that your younger beneficiaries (e.g. grandchildren and great grandchildren) receive a steady income stream that is controlled.
an aso May be suitable for Clients Who: • Would like to bypass probate and distribute assets in a private manner
outside of their will.
• Have beneficiaries who are financially dependent that will require ongoing care and a steady income stream.
• Are concerned about how inheritance money will be managed and would prefer that beneficiaries receive their inheritance on a gradual basis.
Call us today at 519-258-1995 to find out more details on how you can structure your accounts this way.
annuity settlement option
19 OCTOBER 2016
Recipe By Celebrity Chef Daniele Palanca
Directions The easiest snack/salad you will ever make; tons of fresh local ingredients; Tomatoes, basil, red onion... just awesome!
Cut your bread nice and thick; smear it with olive oil and then throw it on the grill for a few seconds to crisp it up and give it nice marks.
Thick cut your tomatoes and red onion
Tear your basil leaves
Put it all together; add a splash of olive oil if need be; throw in your balsamic vinegar, be sure to hit it with sea salt and cracked black pepper... find a friend, a bottle of wine and enjoy!!
ingredients • 3 teaspoons good olive oil
• 1 small French bread, cut into nice
thick crostini
• sea salt
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• 1 red onion thinly sliced
• 10 large basil leaves, coarsely
chopped or torn whole
• Cracked black peppercorns
Panzanella salad
Sincerely,
Daniele Palanca Executive Chef - Ambassador Golf Club
www.facebook.com/pages/Chef-Daniele/185397808303341
20 Neighbours of LaSalle
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Expert Contributor... Michael Crawley from aerus
As kids start heading back to school and Fall slowly rounds the corner, you might notice the distinctive crisp autumn feel in the air. For many, it signals a welcome respite to a long, hot summer; for others it means an onslaught of fall allergies, and then there are those who break out the fleece for any temperature dipping below 68.
In most parts of the country, early fall is still too early to turn on the central heat, but nights and mornings can be cooler than you’d like. Maybe I should get a portable heater, you think. But then you remember that ragweed season is just around the corner. Then I should probably get an air purifier. Here’s what we say: get both!
Beyond by Aerus Guardian Heater, the all-new Beyond by Aerus Guardian Heater was designed to be an efficient heater and air purifier combination. You can choose to heat your space, purify the air in your space, or do both at the same time…making the Beyond Guardian Heater perfect for year-round use.
What makes the Beyond Guardian Heater so extraordinary is the addition of our exclusive ActivePure Technology, which supercharges water molecules, turning them into “scrubbers” that then remove contaminants from the air and surfaces of your home. ActivePure Technology destroys up to 99% of contaminants in the air and on surfaces, and was originally developed by NASA researchers for use on the International Space Station. ActivePure is the only air cleaning technology awarded the prestigious Certified Space Technology seal by the Space Foundation.
in addition to the activePure technology, the beyond guardian heater also:• Provides even heating
• Is whisper-quiet
• Lightweight
• Has auto shut-off safety features in the event it’s overturned or overheats
• Offers adjustable heat levels and an energy-efficient ECO mode
• Comes with a convenient remote
• Soft grate coating eliminates potential for burns
According to the Department of Energy, small space heaters can end up being less expensive to use than turning up the heat house-wide. They can supplement heat in a particular area, allowing you to lower the heat in your home overall.
Consumer Reports found that lowering a thermostat 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours can cut a heating bill by 5 to 15 percent a year. They also estimate that according to average electricity rates, it would cost $1.12a day to use a space heater for 12 hours.
To Heat the Air or to Clean the Air? Get a Machine that Does Both!
Choose a space heater that comes equipped with tip-over safety features that will shut off a unit in the event it’s upended. A CBS news report found that ceramic heaters are “easily portable and give off a great deal of heat from a small box. These heaters tend to be more energy efficient and safer than many heaters, so even though they heat up quickly, their casings stay cool.”
21 OCTOBER 2016
Specialists in General & Life Insurance
For more than 30 years we have provided piece of mind, great rates and friendly, mature customer service.
5915 MaIden Rd., LaSalle | 519-966-6112 | [email protected]
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Thankful for Fall in LaSalle... Photos by Tonya Foote
22 Neighbours of LaSalle
5881 Malden Road, LaSalle
519-250-1106www.pinnaclephysiotherapy.com
MVA .WSIB. SPORT INJURIES.
15
CELEBRATING
YEARS
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RIVERSIDESHORELINE
1
April 15, 2016 Pinnacle Physiotherapy - 2x50Tom SO
• Registered Physiotherapist• Certified in pelvic health therapist• Acupuncture• McKenzie trained• K-Taping certified• Mulligan manual therapy trained
Visit us at 5881 Malden Rd (behind Rexall) or call us
519-250-1106Pinnaclephysiotherapy.com
Devon Younan
Come experience the hands on pinnacle difference with Devon Younan
15 Years in BusinessPROOFCome experience the hands on pinnacle difference
with Devon Younan
Devon Younan• Registered Physiotherapist• Certified in pelvic health therapist• Acupuncture• McKenzie trained• K-Taping certified• Mulligan manual therapy trained
Expert Contributor... From the team of Professionals at Pinnacle Physiotherapy of Lasalle
Autumn days are upon us, soon enough we will be shoveling snow, but that is for another article. First we must get through fall without flaring up old back pain or starting with some new aches. Many of us spend a lot of our autumn weekends racking leaves - it is a great way to spend time outside with our kids or just getting some good old fashion exercise.
However we must be aware to avoid too much reaching, bending and carrying heavy bags which can place excessive loads on your spine causing your back to ache.
The Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) recommends using good posture and body mechanics as well as adopting a good technique when racking leaves. It is also helpful to do stretch before and after racking your yard. Grant Gagnon a Registered Physiotherapist at Pinnacle Physiotherapy who is also a credentialed Mackenzie trained therapist recommends to do standing back extensions, hamstring stretch, along with shoulder and hip flexor stretches.
Because racking is a very physical activity it can lead to muscle soreness or injury. The most common areas for these injuries to occur are middle and low back. Anyone of the staff members at Pinnacle Physiotherapy
Oh My Raking Back! By Mario Ruggirello, Hon. B.H.K, Reg. Kin. Adapted from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
racking tiPs as set out by the Canadian Physiotherapy association:• Hold the rake handle close to your body to help maintain good posture
while raking. Keep one hand near the top for better leverage and use your arms and legs more than your spine. Ergonomic rakes, sold in garden centers across the country, have bent or side handles that are padded for less strain on the hands and wrists. This design ensures that the elbows are bent slightly and also encourages good posture.
• Change sides frequently and avoid twisting from the waist. When raking, the tendency is to plant the feet in a fixed position and to rake in several directions from that position. Instead, place one foot ahead of the other, which allows you to shift forward and backward easily as you rake.
• Pace yourself. Section off larger yards so the job can be completed in stages rather than all at one.
• Lastly, take frequent breaks and or change to a different activity.
Bagging Tips!• When bagging leaves, lift manageable loads. Keep you back straight and
use your legs to do the lifting. If you have to stoop, face the pile of leaves and don’t twist as you lift. When lifting the bag of leaves, tense your stomach muscles to give your back additional support and keep the bag close to your body. Keep your back straight while lifting with the legs.
• Don’t pile too many leaves into one bag, especially if they are wet.
can walk you through the above stretches and show you proper body mechanics while racking and bagging leaves. It is also advised you break up big jobs into smaller ones and take adequate breaks. If you have a heart condition or other medical concerns please consult your physician before raking.
If soreness continues for more then a couple of days you should consult a physiotherapist. All of Pinnacles’ Physiotherapist are registered and have the knowledge and skill to help relieve pain, increase mobility, build strength, balance and increase cardiovascular function.
When finished for the day, take a few moments to cool down by doing the same exercise prior to raking. If soreness persists give Pinnacle Physiotherapy a call and one of our knowledgeable therapists and help to relieve your pain, increase mobility, build core strength and improve overall cardiovascular function and balance!
EXPERENCE THE HANDS - ON PINNACLE DIFFERENCE!
OUR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS: Grant Gagnon RPT, Cred.MDT; Cristina Morasset B.Sc., RPT; Devon Younan B.Sc., M.P.T., Jessi Doucette, Hons. BHK, M.P.T. Megan Byrne B.A.Sc.,MPT
23 OCTOBER 2016
VIPER HOCKEY RETURNS!
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OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
THANKSGIVINGCAN DRIVE
WE’LL BE COLLECTING CAN GOODS ON OCT 1ST & 5TH
AWAY HOME DATE TIMELASALLE LAMBTON SHORES SAT, OCT 01 7:30 PMST. MARYS LASALLE WED, OCT 05 7:30 PMLASALLE ST. MARYS FRI, OCT 07 7:30 PMLONDON LASALLE SUN, OCT 09 2:30 PMLEAMINGTON LASALLE WED, OCT 12 7:00 PMLASALLE STRATHROY SAT, OCT 15 7:30 PMST. THOMAS LASALLE WED, OCT 19 7:00 PMLASALLE CHATHAM SUN, OCT 23 7:00 PMLAMBTON SHORES LASALLE WED, OCT 26 7:00 PMLASALLE SARNIA THU, OCT 27 7:10 PM
AWAY HOME DATE TIMESTRATHROY LASALLE WED, NOV 02 7:00 PMLASALLE LEAMINGTON THU, NOV 03 7:10 PMCHATHAM LASALLE WED, NOV 09 7:00 PMLASALLE LAMBTON SHORES SAT, NOV 12 7:30 PMLEAMINGTON LASALLE WED, NOV 16 7:00 PMLASALLE ST. THOMAS SUN, NOV 20 7:30 PMSARNIA LASALLE WED, NOV 23 7:00 PMLAMBTON SHORES LASALLE WED, NOV 30 7:00 PM
So You Think You Can Speak?By John Weese
I’ve delivered so many after-dinner speeches over the years that one only has to burp and I’ll stand up and “do” 20 minutes. Chick-a-boom, spish! In fact, up until a few weeks ago I fancied myself a professional speaker. In the day, I addressed and stocked the stage in front of thousands on a number of occasions. I used to get paid good dollars for speaking in front of bank executives, retail business operators, newspaper professionals and was the emcee for many weddings, golf tournaments, and banquets. Humbly, I’ve delivered too many eulogies. That’s me, have mouth, will travel. For heaven sakes, for many years I made money with my mouth as a radio broadcaster, did voice-over work and once was the voice behind Captain Carnival, a robotic puppet at a long defunct pizza and arcade joint on Tecumseh Road East.
Then a few months ago I agreed to accompany my mother in-law to her Toastmasters meeting. It was on a Tuesday night in LaSalle, in a crowded little room on the second floor of a senior’s residence. It was a nice little gathering of fifteen or 20 local Toastmaster members. Politely, the “Toastmaster,” the person who runs the weekly program, asked me if I’d like to give an impromptu talk. Piece of cake, right? Not so fast! They take this “speech stuff” pretty seriously. Seems giving a speech is much, much more than a “pull it out of your main orifice” form of verbal jazz, with a few funny quips.
Toastmasters take a diagnostic approach to proper delivery of a speech, formal introductions, opening statements, middle, and an end part to every speech. There’s vocal variety, body language, reinforcement of the main objective in your talk and so much more. And while you would be hard pressed to find a more supportive group of individuals at a Toastmasters meeting, they have an evaluation process that is pretty thorough. I was gently critiqued by someone called the “Wizard of Ahs,” a person who counted every single sloppy, think pause that emanated from my mouth in the form of ums and ahs. In my brief two minute and 31 second impromptu talk (yes they have a timer who has a set of lights to give you time warnings) the Wizard of Ahs counted eight ahs in my talk. Eight! I had no idea. Since that humbling realization, I now record and record my phone messages in an attempt to rid myself of the dreaded Ahs.
Last week, I officially signed up to Toastmasters, sans my mother-in-law who lives in Ottawa. I’m doing this on my own accord, driving to the meeting every Tuesday night (and in my Accord ironically). My goal is to abolish the “Ahs” and to improve my skills and ability to give a speech in a professional way. Indeed, “there are miles to go before I speak and miles to go before I speak.”
The Corporation of the Town of LaSalle
5950 Malden Road, LaSalle, ON N9H 1S4Reception: 519-969-7770 Ext. 1221
www.town.lasalle.on.ca
FOR AMBULANCE, POLICE AND FIRE EMERGENCIES: DIAL 911
MAYOR, COUNCIL & ADMINISTRATIONPhone: 519-969-7770
Fax: 519-969-4469Administrative Assistant..........Ext. 1233
COUNCIL SERVICES / CLERKS DEPARTMENTPhone: 519-969-7770
Fax: 519-969-4029Administrative Assistant..........Ext. 1234
FINANCE / TAX DEPARTMENTPhone: 519-969-7770
Fax: 519-969-4029Assistant Tax Collector..........Ext. 1230
DEVELOPMENT & STRATEGIC INITIATIVE DEPARTMENT(Includes Building Services)
Phone: 519-969-7770Fax: 519-969-9852
Building Technician..........Ext. 1245Bylaw Compliance Officer..........Ext. 1247
LASALLE POLICE SERVICE1880 Normandy Street, LaSalle, ON N9H 1P8
Phone: 519-969-5210Fax: 519-969-2662
General Inquires (on Recorder)..........Ext. 1
LASALLE FIRE SERVICE1900 Normandy Street, LaSalle, ON N9H 1P8
Phone: 519-966-0744Fax: 519-966-9346
CULTURE & RECREATION DEPARTMENTPhone: 519-969-7770
Fax: 519-250-0194Administrative Assistant..........Ext. 1235
Vollmer Recreation Complex2121 Laurier Parkway, LaSalle, ON N9J 0B4
Phone: 519-969-7771Fax: 519-946-3349
Reception..........Ext. 4101
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT2170 Judy Recker Crescent, LaSalle, ON
Phone: 519-969-4143Fax: 519-969-0070
There are 189 acres of land at the Vollmer Complex
OUTSIDE YOU WILL FIND:• 28 Soccer Fields• 6 Softball Diamonds• 2 Hardball Diamonds• Many trails and hills for group runs/walks• A large picnic pavilion that seats 200• A small picnic pavilion that seats 50• An outdoor amphitheatre• Outdoor concession facilities• A skateboard park• Parking for 1,000 cars/trucks
The Vollmer Centre is120,000 square feet in size!!INSIDE YOU FIND:• 2 NHL size arenas; one with seating for 1,000 people, the other with seating for 200 people• 12 Dressing rooms• Fully accessible washrooms• A pool with wave action and a slide, a sauna and a hot tub• A fitness centre with award winning exercise equipment• Meeting and activity rooms• Indoor concession and eating area
FOR PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITY INFORMATION GO TO:
www.lasallecultureandrecreation.ca
THIS IS YOUR
Vollmer Complex
2121 LAURIER DR., LASALLE2121 LAURIER DR., LASALLE
Welcome to the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex. The Vollmer Complex is a place for the people of LaSalle to gather for sports, exercise, meetings and fun
Welcome to the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex. The Vollmer Complex is a place for the people of LaSalle to gather for sports, exercise, meetings and fun
