Annie Silvester
Annie Silvester is the publisher of niagarabuzz.ca and has returned to her roots in the Niagara Region, residing currently in St. Catharines, after many years in Toronto where she worked in the television, radio and publishing industries for the bulk of her career.
She holds a BA in English from Brock University as well as a degree in broadcasting from Humber College. These tools as well as an addiction to hard work, “super strong” black coffee and the 20 minute workout have moved her career path through various transitions that include newscaster, reporter, and video journalist not to mention a schedule that has “never a dull moment”
Locally she has worked for News Talk 610 CKTB, Niagara News Television and Bullet Media
Annie is thrilled to be part of Niagara’s progressive new voice….the video life and culture website niagarabuzz.ca, an infotainment site dedicated to celebrating the best that Niagara and the rest of the world has to offer….in between the headlines!
She holds a BA in English from Brock University as well as a degree in broadcasting from Humber College. These tools as well as an addiction to hard work, “super strong” black coffee and the 20 minute workout have moved her career path through various transitions that include newscaster, reporter, and video journalist not to mention a schedule that has “never a dull moment”
Locally she has worked for News Talk 610 CKTB, Niagara News Television and Bullet Media
Annie is thrilled to be part of Niagara’s progressive new voice….the video life and culture website niagarabuzz.ca, an infotainment site dedicated to celebrating the best that Niagara and the rest of the world has to offer….in between the headlines!
Andrea Liss
Andrea Liss is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s Degree, is on faculty at McMaster and Wilfrid Laurier Universities and runs Locke Psychotherapy in Hamilton, ON
When Andrea is not hard at work making the world a better place she enjoys live music, hanging with friends and travelling. She is married and has a twenty-something step-son. She made the exodus from Toronto to Hamilton in 1999 and hasn’t look back since. As a girl, she dreamed of being the next “Dear Abby”. She welcomes your advice questions in her bi-weekly column “Tissue Issues”. For more information about Andrea Liss: www.lockepsychotherapy.com or to send her a question: info@niagarabuzz.ca
Andrew Page
Andrew Page is a teen photographer who has regularly been exploring the world through his camera lens for over two years.
His passion for finding the perfect shot comes from his love of the art and desire to learn more.
Andrew cites photography as a great hobby and stress reliever and as a contributor for niagarabuzz.ca he shares his unique take on the world around him.
For more of his work, please visit his Facebook Page.
Anna D'Amore
Anna has been in the asthetic world for 2 + decades and is the owner of Truvi Beauty Bar in Niagara Falls.
She is passionate about beauty and is on a mission to leave an impression with everyone that gets time with her!
In addition to Power Facials, Anna is renowned for her by appointment only brow shaping...and is affectionately known by her mass following as "The Brow Queen".
Truvi Beauty Bar has also been designated as the Certifying Center for Lash Extensions and Eye-Brow Extensions for the area of Buffalo and Niagara Region.
Check out all of Truvi Beauty Bars' services on www.truvibeauty.com and follow Anna as a regular contributor to niagarabuzz.ca's health and beauty section.
Anne Sharpe
In 2008, Anne moved to the Niagara Peninsula (Fort Erie) in part, to pursue her love of photography.
She is mostly self taught and currently is in pursuit of her photography certificate from Niagara College along with her husband as she strives to perfect her craft and share her joy of moments captured with others.
Bailey Roubos
Bailey Roubos is an entrepreneur doing what he loves to do.
Ever since childhood he has had an entrepreneurial spirit. From shining shoes and cleaning wealthy kids rooms for inspection at the Culver Academies, to his current initiative: DroneHub (a media company that uses drones and cameras to visually enhance video content), Bailey LOVES the challenge of making it on his own.
For more information on DroneHub: https://www.facebook.com/dronehubmediacompany
Beverley Golden
Beverley Golden resides in Toronto and describes herself as having “the heart of a writer and the mind of a marketing person” who loves balancing the right side creative brain, with the left side logical brain.
She sees herself as a conversational storyteller and is an accomplished writer who contributes to Huffington Post, Intent Blog and has recently finished her first full length book Confessions of a Middle Aged Hippie.
Beverley’s life has also been about learning to trust the power of the inner voice and her persistence to maintain her individuality regardless of the cost.
She love’s shifting paradigms; taking impossibilities and turning them into possibilities. Her story is about health and healing; about seeking and sometimes finding, and then seeking some more.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca Beverley looks forward to bringing her unique perspective on the world to viewers. www.beverleygolden.com
Britney Boston
Britney was offered a position at LCHS in 2007 and in 2013 she was promoted to Senior Animal Care Technician, and then Assistant Manager in 2014.
She has adopted 5 cats and a dog from the LCHS, and also thoroughly enjoys the company of the kitties she fosters in her office!
As a longtime employee of LCHS and true animal lover, Britney contributes to the production of niagarabuzz.ca’s pet video features “Walk a Mile In My Paws”.
Interesting fact: Britney is currently in the final stages of completing her Masters in Counselling Psychology.
Buzz
Sharing the top global and local stories within our social network.
Carolyn Moor
Carolyn Moor is the founder of the Modern Widows Club, an organization that has a mission to console, support and mentor a modern generation of millions of widows by inspiring them to move forward and live their best life possible with value and purpose. Then, in the future to be motivated to reach back as a widow advocate to the 245 million widows worldwide as a voice for the voiceless.
Carolyn is also an Allied ASID Designer for Moor Alive Interiors and a Member of the New Hope for Kids Board.
She has done a wide range of public speaking and writing in support and encouragement of widows everywhere (including appearing on the Oprah Winfrey Program).
Carolyn is passionate that all widows deserve a mentor either in person or on- line. She holds kindness, compassion & James 1:27 to heart. Moving forward while reaching back.
www.modernwidowsclub.com
Cat Cino
Cat Cino is passionate about canines! Her life's work has been dedicated to improving the human-animal bond through education, training and rehabilitation of abandoned pets.
Ms. Cino's personal approach to dog training has earned her the invaluable trust amongst North American pet owners and her peers.
She is a recognized as the leader in dog bite prevention and canine aggression by the Ontario Attorney General, Elementary School Boards and many Humane Societies across North America including the Lincoln County Humane Society.
She believes that dog training has little to do with obedience and everything to do with building relationships that are based on trust and mutual respect.
For more information about Cat: www.catandjack.com
Cathy Fugler
Cathy Fugler is the Communications Director of the Niagara Falls Humane Society. For more information: www.nfhs.ca
Christine Hess
Niagara College Photography graduate Christine Hess, is a published Professional Photographer and outstanding and unique visual artist. Her passion for photography and critical eye for composition are evident in her award winning and highly acclaimed photos. Christine's eclectic approach to photography includes land & waterscapes, portraiture and international travel. Her photo chronicles of the Niagara Region and, in particular, Niagara Falls, have resulted in many awards and accolades and international acclaim. Among her clients she includes Niagara Falls Tourism, The Niagara Parks Commission, and Hornblower Niagara Cruises. Christine currently resides in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada.
Christine Lynn
Christine Lynn is a Broadcast Journalism graduate from Mohawk College, who has worked in radio promotions and is currently employed by HOCO Entertainment & Resorts on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls.
As their Social Media Coordinator, she regularly blogs on www.cliftonhill.com and is active on all their social media platforms. Christine has a drive to bring tourism not only to Clifton Hill, but to the Niagara Region as a whole.
When Christine is not promoting Niagara Falls, she is an avid runner who races competitively and fiercely. She is devoted and dedicated to the sport and in health & fitness in general. She lives in St.Catharines with her 3 year old son, 2 cats and a dog. She has a strong addiction to coffee, sushi, and making people smile.
Christine also has a blog at: https://christinelynnblog.wordpress.com
Carrie Lee
Carrie Lee aka Clee is a predominately black & white photographer based in Niagara whose style leans toward the avant-garde, the dramatic and the bold with a true desire to be different from the typical.
Editorial fashion, lifestyle and creative captures are her faves.
“Insatiable” is the word that sums up Clee’s work. Never satisfied there is a quenchless desire to always do better, to do the next shoot. Yesterday’s work is “old” work.
Clee’s unsurpassed eye for the perfect shot makes her the ultimate contributor to niagarabuzz.ca as she captures each moment “at the speed of life”!
For more information about her work please visit : www.cleeimages.com
Daniel Mazur
Daniel Mazur is a life-long resident of Niagara Falls who holds a BA in History from Brock University and a Post-Graduate Certificate from Niagara College in Public Relations.
He is employed as a Hotel Ambassador with the Falls Avenue Resort and is a member of The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise where he serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors.
Daniel is the proud uncle to Ben and Laila and is passionate about many things including writing, volunteering and animal welfare.
He spent three years with the Niagara Falls Humane Society where he wrote many articles for publications like Niagara This Week, authored a children’s book about a shelter dog that sold 100 copies and raised $1200 for the organization and is currently working on his second book which he hopes to release soon.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca, Daniel continues to fuel his love for writing by covering a variety of topics both locally and globally.
Dave Robinson
Dave Robinson is a retired college professor who has a passion for design and photography. His work includes an eclectic offering of photographic genres, but wildlife and landscapes are his main focus and true love, especially the natural beauty and seascapes around his home town Port Dalhousie.
David L. Katz
David L. Katz, MD, MPH, FACPM, FACP is the founding director of Yale University’s Prevention Research Center.
He is also the recipient of numerous awards and is recognized globally for expertise in nutrition, weight management and chronic disease prevention.
He has been acclaimed by colleagues as the “poet laureate” of health promotion and niagarabuzz.ca is thrilled to have his expertise in our contributor lineup.
Dr. Gifford Jones
Dr. Gifford-Jones (AKA Ken Walker) is a graduate of The University of Toronto and The Harvard Medical School. He took post-graduate training in surgery at the Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, McGill University in Montreal and Harvard.
During his medical training he has been a family doctor, hotel doctor and ship’s surgeon. He is a Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons and author of seven books.
His medical column is published by 70 Canadian newspapers, several in the U.S. and the Epoch Times which has editions in a number of European countries. He was Senior Editor of the Canadian Doctor, a regular contributor to the magazine Fifty Plus and other publications.
Ken is married to Susan, has four children and 11 grandchildren. His hobby is trap shooting.
Dr. Gifford's articles on niagarabuzz.ca are those of the credited author of the article or message and the expressed opinions are not necessarily those of the site owners, operators, developers, or host.
Articles and messages on this site are for information purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat any illness, disease, or other medical condition. Natural products and any claims made about specific products on the site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration nor Health Canada and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
Stafford Dobbin
Dr. Stafford W. Dobbin is a graduate of Queens University Belfast and founded Heart Niagara in 1977.
He established the first Department of Emergency Services in Niagara at the Greater Niagara General Hospital in 1976 and through Heart Niagara he initiated the teaching of Citizen Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation in Niagara and of Advanced Cardiac Life Support for Critical care personnel prior to the establishment of the Regional Paramedic program.
His initial design for Heart Niagara included a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program for survivors of Cardiac events staffed by qualified Physicians and Nurses for which he was the Medical Director to 2002. Through Heart Niagara he started the Niagara Schools 'Healthy Heart Program in 1985 and is the Medical Director.
His EMS system for coverage of Mass Participation events was first used at the US Olympic Marathon trials in 1980 and he served on the first Executive of the International Marathon Directors Association.
He is presently a partner in the Niagara Medical Group, a Family Health Team, in Niagara Falls and as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca he brings his extensive medical knowledge to viewers on pertinent health issues.
For more information on Heart Niagara: www.heartniagara.com
Dustin McKissen
Dustin is an executive, consultant, aspiring author, husband, father, and some other things too. He values learning from people from all walks of life and all parts of the world.
Dustin currently serves as Vice President of First Resource, an association management and consulting company with an exceptional track record of helping associations become more effective and profitable. His firm works with cities, countries, and other local government entities to help them grow while retaining their employment base. As Vice President, he manages client engagements and accounts, while focusing on growing his firm's brand.
Certifications
Certified Association Executive (CAE)
2013 – Present
Certified Marketing Executive (CME)
Sales and Marketing Executives International
Education
Cornell University,
Financial Management, Graduate Certificate,
Cornell University
Executive Leadership, Graduate Certificate
Northern Arizona University
Public Management, Master's Degree,
Aspen University
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
Prescott College
Public Policy, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Elspeth Cameron
Elspeth Cameron is the author of nine books and many journalistic profiles.
An accomplished educator she has instructed at U of T, Concordia and is Adjunct Professor in the English Department of Brock University.
Elspeth is a Board member of the Lincoln County Humane Society and combines her expertise together with her love of animals as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca
She shares her home with 4 felines and is an avid watercolourist (especially of animals).
Feir Johnson
Feir Johnson B.A., DCH has a background in education and is a Dr. of Clinical Hypnotherapy.
She has an office in Niagara Falls. To contact her or to learn more see www.innisfreehypnosis.com.
Gabriele Marinelli
Gabriele Marinelli, Niagara Falls resident and host of niagarabuzz.ca’s cooking show “Simply Delicious” has been creating authentic Italian dishes since he can remember and is one of the founders of Four Brothers Italian Restaurant on Ferry Street in the Falls
Gabriele jokes that “some people have blood in their veins….but my family has tomato sauce!”
After a successful stint on a widely viewed cable cooking show years back, Gabriele is excited to be bringing his winning cuisine back to the small screen where his belief that great food doesn’t have to be fancy, just done right comes to life!
Gord Waters
Gord Waters is a full time civil servant, devoted husband and father of three that is into extreme sports and fitness.
He graduated from York University with a degree in Kinesiology and loves writing in his spare time.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca, Gord enjoys discussing things that matter both locally and globally and he hopes you will enjoy reading his pieces as much as he enjoys writing them!
Greg Miller
Greg Miller is a local writer and communications strategist. He combines his passions for writing and Niagara with engaging articles about local politics, media and events. A former public servant, his research and opinions are sometimes controversial, but always thought-provoking. For more information, you can visit his website at: www.niagaranext.com
Jan Johnston Osburn
Jan Johnston Osburn is a Global Talent Acquisition professional with more than 20 years’ experience and a proven track record of driving transformational initiatives. Her domestic and international Human Resources recruiting experience is extensive as well as her expertise in managing geographically dispersed teams of recruiters in high volume organizations.
As a Career Strategist she upon my vast recruitment and career development background to help other professionals design their new career path.
She holds a Master’s degree from the University of Buckingham, UK as well as certifications in Human Resources, Executive Coaching, Advanced Social Media, and is currently pursuing credentials as a Certified Resume Writer and Life Strategy Coach and brings her vast knowledge as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca.
JanJohnstonOsburn.com
Jason Lupish
Jason is a one-of-a-kind creative. He sees the world through a different lens then most of us, in the mundane he sees beauty, in the shadows he sees elegance.
Jason is the director of award winning films and is a recent recipient of the elusive 40-under-40 award. Jason can take any script and turn it into a story, and this visionary leadership is what drives the creative momentum of Open Concept Films.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca Jason brings his artistic slant to the world in compelling video format !
Jeff Haden
Jeff is a ghostwriter of over fifty non-fiction books , a magazine and niagarabuzz.ca contributor and owner of BlackBIrd Media.
While he typically writes on leadership, entrepreneurship, management, process improvement, finance, and investing, he's also written books on subjects as diverse as breastfeeding, hydroponics, horticulture, magic, and even personal finance for um, exotic dancers. (Don't ask. But it did sell really well.)
In his spare time he is a wannabe cyclist and over the hill motorcycle racer.
Jeff believes that if "making mistakes leads to wisdom, he should be a genius."
Joanne Deall
Joanne Deall decided to leave the chaos of the big city of Toronto to follow her dream of life in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
When she is not busy running her Bed and Breakfast, Highbrook, she loves to write about life in Niagara. Follow her adventures on niagarabuzz.ca as well as at www.niagarafied.ca.
John Howard
John Howard is a therapist, educator and spiritual teacher. He combines modern science with ancient approaches to health and well-being. John specializes in the new science of relationship, helping couples live their dream, and distilling the core mechanics of world spiritual traditions. To know more about John and his teachings, please visit his web site www.ReadySetLove.com.
John Storm
John Storm is a well know personality in the Niagara area who brings his boundless enthusiasm for the region to the forefront in everything he does.
He is host of Taking Niagara By Storm on Cogeco TV, and he sits on the council of TVOntario.
Kelly Peletier
Kelly Peletier is a Home Staging Specialist, a Certified Color Consultant, a Certified Interior Decorator and the owner of Luxe Property Staging - specializing in vacant properties.
She has immense experience with home exterior/interior design. From drywall to painting, she has you covered.
Kelly Peletier's Company LUXE Property Staging: www.luxepropertystaging.com
Kelly has a Professional International Master Staging designation and is trained to the highest level in North America for Home Staging.
With her wealth of design sense she brings her knowledge as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca’s Home and Garden Section.
Ken Lankin
Ken Lankin has been with Mortgage Intelligence - Niagara since 1998 and has been a leader in both volume of business booked and transactions for the smaller market areas Canada wide since joining the MI family.
Ken is proud to be part of a team of the most knowledgeable, ethical and professional mortgage professionals in the Canadian mortgage industry and believes"relationship building" and "customer service" are key in his business.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca, Ken brings his many years of knowledge of the industry forward to readers in an effort to educate and inform them about the often confusing world of mortgages.
Ken Lankin, AMP
Sr.Mortgage Agent
FSCO #M08001420
Mortgage Intelligence - Niagara
3521 Portage Rd Suite 5
Niagara Falls, Ont., L2H2K5
(T)905-356-8984 (F)905-356-9391
FSCO #10428
mortgageintelligence.ca
Kevin Erb
Kevin is the managing partner of Niagara Sports Xpress. As a contributor to Niagarabuzz.ca’s sports content section he is excited to bring you the regions best sports news.. After graduating from Brock University with a Bachelors Degree in Leisure Studies in 2010 where he learned the value of partnerships and community building. You may have seen his community magazine that is a free publication distributed to Niagara’s sports community. He takes promotion of local sports seriously, he firmly believes that giving people a chance to participate begins with providing them with the knowledge. He is passionate about youth programing and promoting opportunities. Sports help to give our youth the opportunity to meet friends and become leaders. Kevin is dedicated to his work in Niagara “Helping to fill that gap and provide people with life changing experience is a pretty cool feeling”. You can find more of Kevin’s work at niagarasportsxpress.ca or follow his on twitter @sxp_niagara or facebook Niagarasportsxpress.ca.
Kevin Strooband
Kevin Strooband has been with the Lincoln County Humane Society for 24 years and has spent half of that time as the Executive Director. Currently within the facility, their 100 dedicated volunteers and 20 staff care for almost 4,000 animals each year.
Under the direction of the Board of Directors Kevin oversees the day-to-day operations and continually works to improve the shelter and the lives of the animals in its care every day. Just an email away, you can contact Kevin at kstrooband@lchs.ca.
Kevin is an instrumental contributor to niagarabuzz.ca by bringing the “Walk A Mile In My Paws” segment to life!
Laura Barbara
Laura Barbara has an honours degree in Sociology and Education and has a passion for working with people both at the business and community levels.
As both a homemaker extraordinaire and a retail specialist for kitchen products, Laura’s passion for cooking and engaging with people transcends into her personal life where her home is the regular stop for family entertaining.
Laura resides with her husband and 3 children and as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca, she is happy to be bringing her domestic expertise and enthusiasm to the table!
Linda Babb
Linda Babb is an educator who has spent ten years teaching in public schools and over twenty years deeply involved in “politics”
She has a keen understanding of the essence of the democratic process and passion for reminding people of the importance of this process which she believes “has been distorted into the current political system of manipulation and disregard for the will of the people.”
Her knowledge of the inner workings in the political world serves her well in her work now, reaching out to people, urging them to take back their control of the democratic process and, in turn, the aspects of their lives which are controlled by whichever party forms the government.
Linda is now heading the Niagara Falls Peoples' Platform, a nonpartisan initiative that is transforming how elections are done. Through it, residents of Niagara Falls can identify, discuss, and prioritize what they want for the future of their city – before electing its leadership.
The Peoples' Platform provides a preliminary opportunity for people to chart the course of their city, whether they are interested in voting in the election or not and a new space for discussion that supports a more human-scale form of politics.
This began in Hamilton – more information can be found at www.PeoplesPlatform.ca with a Facebook page on the Niagara Falls Peoples' Platform “in the works” at the time of writing this.
Mark Stewart
Mark was born in New Brunswick and raised among the concrete blocks of East Toronto, until he graduated from Ryerson University realizing that he had morphed into one of those city folk.
While moving west, he stopped in Grimsby for a short stint before settling on the outskirts of St. Jacobs.
As a suit and tie by day and writing enthusiast by night, Mark believes life is about balance.
He rates music, travel and sailing as his top turn to’s... and when he’s not expressing himself through the pages of niagarabuzz.ca with his business and world knowledge he enjoys the odd nip of a quality scotch.
Mary Ann Grimaldi
Mary Ann Grimaldi is a City Councillor in Welland who holds a degree in Accounting and Social Services. She is a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers (RSSW).
As a wife, mother and grandmother in the community, Mary Ann is passionate about the region and the importance that each individual has to affect change by getting involved.
“your vote is your voice”
maryanng@sympatico.ca
Mary Gasbarrino
For as long as Mary’s family and friends can remember she was decorating their spaces to be more beautiful. She was the mom that when her kids would come home from school their playroom would be painted a different colour. When her friends needed a room refreshed she was there to help organize and give them a new look.
What was a lifetime hobby grew into a thriving business when after 20 years Mary decided to leave her career in sales management. Her passion was not just to decorate but to give people a space that made them feel good, a place that felt like home.
Over the past two years, Decorate in Style has expanded throughout the Greater Niagara Region. Mary believes that how people live in their home and how they market their home for resale are two different things. She is partnering with realtors and working with clients to create the space they envision for their home, old and new. It has been an exciting two years and she is looking forward to creating many more new lifestyles in Niagara as well as contributing some of her extensive knowledge to niagarabuzz.ca!
www.decorateinstyle.com
Mary-lee Sampson
Mary-lee has a passion for animals, nature and photography and recently retired to pursue her dreams full time.
As a talented photographer, she is working towards her Ticket for photography at Niagara College and contributes pieces of her work as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca
Mary-lee is also a volunteer photographer for St. John’s Ambulance Therapy Dogs, Niagara Branch and owns and operates a successful pet sitting service in the Niagara Region called Beauty and the Beast.
Meredith Todd
For almost a decade Meredith has provided service in the spa and skin
care industry.
She graduated with Honours from Sheridan College in Oakville and began her career at Sanctuary International Day Spa in Burlington, Ontario.
Since then, she has brought a superior level of aesthetic care to the Niagara region specializing in podology (advanced pedicures and diabetic foot care), non-therapeutic hot stone relaxation massage, laser hair removal and advanced facial treatments.
Meredith is passionate about
her industry and sees aesthetics as one part of a holistic approach to personal wellness. She has combined her interest in cosmetics
chemistry and nutrition with in-depth product knowledge and believes "the inside affects the outside" and is pleased to bring her expertise to the readers of niagarabuzz.ca.
Meredith Todd is a certified aesthetician and podologist, with The Body Clinic @ iSilhouette Niagara Falls. She can be reached at 289-477-6002 or reception@thebodyclinic.ca.
Michael Levesque
Michael P. Levesque is the President & CTO of the Engineered Systems Networked Group of Companies, a top tier consortium of companies that create, design, prototype and manufacture renewable and green technology systems on a global scale. His Group of Companies consist of: Engineered Systems Incorporated, Engineered Systems Wind Power Division, Engineered Systems Consumer Products Group, Engineered Systems LED Lighting Systems, Engineered Systems Military Operations, Green Source Electronics, HK and EOA Solar Systems Ltd., PRC.
Failure is not falling down, it is not getting up again.
When Michael is not working he enjoys spending time with his top priority, his children.
Miranda Van Dyke
Miranda Van Dyke is a resident of Niagara with a background in social services and psychology and a passion for learning and development. She is passionate about helping others and believes in leading by example and cultivating a culture of support and positivity.
Patty Hirsch
Patricia Hirst holds a degree in English from McMaster University and currently calls Hamilton, Ontario home.
She currently spends her time between Toronto and Hamilton as freelance contributor for various publications.
Paul Atkins
Paul Atkins is a freelance writer, living in the Hamilton area.
Paul studied Liberal Arts at Seneca College and travelled extensively after graduation which he believes radically changed his view on the world around him.
Currently working in sales, when he is not pursuing his hobby of writing Paul loves to kick back with great music and passionate people.
“Traveling-It leaves you speechless. Then it turns you into a storyteller.” IBN Battuta
Paul Bongers
Paul Bongers is a native of Niagara Falls Ontario and is the co-owner along with his wife Pam of one of Niagara’s Premier Garden Centres: Country Basket as well as Country Basket Flower Boutiques.
Paul’s expertise in all things green has assisted gardening enthusiasts for over 20 years! From planning the perfect outdoor space, to proper planting and care for your greenery Paul has you covered!
Paul is passionate about what he does and brings his knowledge and enthusiasm to niagarabuzz.ca with his “garden clips” segments which focus on the how- to’s for the everyday gardener!
For more information about Paul, please visit his 2 websites at: countrybasketniagara.com or cbflowerboutique.com
Raja Abdel-Majid
Raja Abdel-Majid, Ph.D. D.H.N., Dipl.Ac, M.M.Q., is the founder and owner of Energetic Harmony Clinic. She is a Holistic Health Care Practitioner, public speaker, spiritual teacher, and energy healer. Her vision is to help individuals to: release blockage, restore balance, and to reawaken their beings. She accomplishes this by educating, empowering, and bringing awareness to all aspects of well-being. In her clinic she focuses on stress, pain & weight loss management, and healthy aging not only at the physical level but at the emotional and spiritual levels too. She is the author of the forthcoming books "Go Away Journey, From Depression to Action.", and "Journey to the Other Side". For more information, please visit her website at www.energeticharmony.ca.
Randy Robertson
Randy Robertson has lived a life well-travelled and experienced. After spending his formative years working the oil fields, and finding out the hard way that being a professional trapper is not as lucrative as everybody says it is (well maybe not quite), Randy finally caved in and moved back to central Ontario including a stint in the Niagara region.
A true man of adventure, when Randy is not hunting, fishing, taking pictures with his “classic” cameras (we’re talking film people) or riding his '81 motorcycle, you can find him at the local Tim Horton’s sitting around with his buddies griping about having to work a day job, and telling stories about his wild, younger days out west.
As a contributor for niagarabuzz.ca Randy looks forward to always giving viewers what he calls “the straight goods”, because he has never been a liar, and he isn't about to start now.
Rebecca Lott
Rebecca is a community-minded educator and administrator, who currently works for the Niagara Academy of Sports in Vineland as both a Principal and Teacher.
She has worked as a journalist for many local publications in the past, and she currently writes on a freelance basis about a variety of topics.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca, Rebecca brings over 25 years of professional experience to the website and is an exciting addition to our team of content writers.
Rob Booth
Rob Booth is the owner of Niagara's premier retail destination The One Stop Fireplace Shop in Niagara Falls which has been serving the region for over 30 years in hearth products and outdoor accessories.
As a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca Rob shares his expertise and exceptional product based knowledge.
For more information visit him at: www.onestopfireplaceshop.com
Sandra Noe
Sandra Noe is a graduate of one of Canada's first aesthetics college - Gina's College in Waterloo, Ontario. Since her certification as an aesthetician in 1983 Sandra has gone on to certify as a Permanent Makeup Technician and received her diploma with CIDESCO, recognized as the world standard for spa and beauty therapists. In 2012 she returned to Niagara Falls
to open her boutique day spa, iSilhouette Niagara Falls, on Queen Street in historic old downtown Niagara Falls. She can be reached at 289-477-6002 or sandra@thebodyclinic.ca.
Sarah Cashmore
Born and raised on the outskirts of Virgil, Ontario, Sarah is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education at the University of Toronto.
Sarah enjoys exploring the evolution of culture and subculture, and is particularly taken by the DIY(do it yourself) movement. She also has a passion for independent arts and follows the work of indie designers, musicians and illustrators.
Currently residing in Toronto, ON Sarah is excited to be bringing her life and educational experiences to www.niagarabuzz.ca as a contributor.
Sims Wyeth
Sims Wyeth owns and manages Sims Wyeth & Co., a training and consulting firm which assists people in selling themselves and their ideas when they speak.
His company located in the Greater New York City Area, works in the pharmaceutical, biotech, financial and professional services industries. Specialties include: seminars, private coaching and creative services for professional development and projects such as drug approvals, major sales, internal influence, and leadership.
www.simswyeth.com
Stephanie Bonetta
Stephanie Bonetta is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner and holds a Bachelor in Arts as well as Education.
Her strong belief in eating nutritionally dense foods, cooking a variety of healthy meals, practicing yoga and living a spiritual life gives her unsurpassed energy and the desire to not only live life to the fullest, but to help others to do the same!
Stephanie believes that feeding the body and mind properly cause individuals to thrive when combined with feeding the emotional body with love.
Her goal is to empower people and her expertise in food and supplemental protocol as well as yoga retreats have inspired many to make a positive change in their lives!
Stephanie is passionate about health and wellness and brings her broad experience and educational background as a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca
Stephanie Joy
Stephanie Joy is a thirty-something single trying to navigate the world between past dreams gone awry and future hopes yet to materialize.
She holds a Bachelor of Education and is an educator by day and an accomplished musician who entertains by night.
Her daily life includes both the stability that an independent woman requires, as well as the flexibility that makes life interesting.
When Stephanie isn’t in front of a class or piano, you will likely find her pounding the pavement or sweating it out in a hot yoga studio. Stephanie resides in Central Ontario with Georgie, her furry white ‘boyfriend’ of 17 years and is up for the challenge of contributing for niagarabuzz.ca… a pursuit that will give her lots of time with Georgie!
Tanya West
Tanya West is excited to be a contributor for the health and wellness segment “balance”on niagarabuzz.ca and is passionate about fitness.
Her holistic background began years ago after battling lymphoma herself and losing her mother to breast cancer as well as her father to heart failure. She realized life was way too short and her lifestyle needed to change. She now has her Certificate in Holistic Nutrition, is a Registered Nutritional Product Advisor and is now completing a Nutritional Consultant Diploma.
Tanya is currently employed at Your NRG FItness in Niagara Falls where she inspires others daily.
She has also continued to diligently pursue exceptional fitness goals. In 2014 she placed 1st in bikini masters and 1st in bikini elite with the UFE (Ultimate Fitness Events) earning her UFE pro status. Next up for her are the UFE World championships in November.
Tanya hopes her personal experiences and journey to health will inspire you as she shares her story and knowledge on niagarabuzz.ca
Tarzan Kay Kalryzian
Tarzan Kay is a freelance writer and author of In the Belly of Oz, a travel memoir of a year in Australia, published this year by Iguana Books.
She resides in the niagara region with her significant other Jay, is a badass meditator and has some of the best hair around.
Trish Cassling
Trish Cassling writes about things that matter to her - music, nature, travel and photography with the occasional review thrown in.
More of her work can ben seen at: http://bit.ly/adventuresofanurbangirl
Vicki Fagan
Vickie Fagan is an award winning producer, director, writer and filmmaker, specializing in arts, corporate and broadcast programming. She founded Fagan Media Group in the fall of 2010. Vickie’s television background includes over fifteen years with Chum Television, where she worked as a producer of documentaries, short films and series television.
Fagan is currently an associate of Armstrong Strategy Group, where she contributes client videos, PR consulting and business development. Vickie writes a weekly blog for Zoomer Media, is the President of the Niagara Dance Company and currently has a short story in development with CBC as an animated film in partnership with Veronica Tennant Productions and Smiley Guy Studios.
Virginia MacDonald
Virginia MacDonald considers herself to be a Professional 'Amateur' photographer. Although she has graduated from the Photography Program at Niagara College, she feels she will always be a student of photography, since there is such a wide variety of equipment and so many techniques to master.
Along with her career in photography, Virginia is a boat detailer, barber/hairdresser, wife and mother. Her life is busy with four children, two granddaughters, three dogs and three cats.
Virginia is active as a volunteer photographer for the Niagara Falls Humane Society, photographing all types of pets in need of forever homes, Photography is Virginia's passion and she has fallen in love with every aspect. She loves to photograph nature, wildlife, children/newborns, family, pets and wedding photos. It is a rare moment, indeed, to find her without a camera in hand and she is happy to be a contributor to niagarabuzz.ca.
Vivienne Lively
Vivienne Lively recently located to the Niagara area after spending many years in Mississauga Ontario as manager for a large fashion retail chain.
Looking to put roots down in a smaller community she lives with her significant other and their 2 fish “Slipper” and “Google” in domestic bliss, complete with peach tree in the back yard.
Vivienne still considers herself to be a mall rat although book worm is something that would describe her to a tea as well.
Her fascination with history, fiction, the DIY movement, Oprah Winfrey ,Martha Stewart and Gwen Stefani have her well-grounded on many topics and she looks forward to bringing her two sense to niagarabuzz.ca as a contributor.