Yesterday I decided it would be a nice thing to do to “Pay It Forward” so I paid for the green tea of the gentleman in the car behind me at Tim Horton’s. I know it really isn’t much but I thought it would be a nice start to someone elses day. So I got to thinking, how often do we “pay it forward” with others?
Share a “pay it forward” moment and maybe we’ll reward you with something too!!
Come for the music
Stay for the charm
This is just the slice of life that has been a long time coming but now that it is here, may I introduce a charming destination nestled in a small corner of west Windsor in ol’ Sandwich Towne?
For some strange reason, many have the perception that Windsor’s west side is to be avoided like the plague – that this historic centre of our City has absolutely nothing seriously to offer in the way of any cultural or social ambience least of all a place to sip a brew, share a song or to enjoy the warm hospitality of friends and neighbors alike. Take it from one who knows that all this and more can be found within the four walls of the Mill Tavern. This quaint establishment has a long and rich history that dates back to the early 1880’s when it was the corner site of the John Spiers’ General Store (the mainstay of the commercial neighborhood) at that time. Much of the original brick interior of the building has been carefully restored adding a world of ambience and historic relevance that welcomes all who pass through the doors. Over the years, The Mill Tavern has had many owners and has undergone numerous “character” changes that may have contributed to the spoiled reputation that has been attached to this site however; Bill and Aggie Sarafianos have done an outstanding job during the last two years transforming The Mill into a cozy destination.
Bill entered the hospitality industry after being displaced from the automotive sector and through determination, vision, passion and his natural flair for “people” this family (including daughters Stephanie and Liz – aka (The Twisted Sisters) and a host of very supportive friends and colleagues have championed the art and style of re-harmonizing all the endearing qualities that this business is truly capable of providing and what a kick ass job they have done. It was no bed of roses during the initial start up but husband and wife dug their heels in and arm and arm they turned The Mill around. Now, by any stretch of the imagination will you find patrons there flashing Rolex watches, wearing Prada shoes, tossing down platinum credit cards for martini lunches or parking their hot new wheels just outside the door, but what will find are down-to-earth big-hearted locals who recognize a good thing when they see it. They are good folk who walk through the winding streets of old Sandwich’s turn-of-the-century neighborhoods or along the waterfront on their way to The Mill where they enjoy a spot of local history or come to share some local gossip while Bill pulls pints and dishes out the daily specials – just regular pub fare that hits the spot! No one ever is turned away. As a matter of fact, for a factory worker, Bill certainly know how to work the room – cranks up the charm that makes everyone feel like an old friend – plain old-fashioned hospitality that kind of grows on ya! Aggie’s no slouch either. Her infectious laughter accompanied by an abundance of hugs and handshakes makes for a welcoming visit time after time.
A variety of home-town entertainment truly captures the essence of “the gathering”. Daughters, Stephanie and Liz (aka the twisted Sisters) keep The Mill the place to enjoy toe-tapping tunes – belting out favorite Celtic songs that invites a turn around the dance floor – a gig or two. Periodically, the Tartan Army joins the “family” and then all hell breaks loose. The Mill rocks with thundering merriment with young and old joining in to share a song. On Wednesday, Alec L. welcomes all to “the mike” and then weekends start at The Mill. “Spin doctor” “Big” Pat Ryan hosts karaoke Friday nights that brings out a host of talent that’s just a delight to hear and a wide variety of local live entertainment is featured Saturday nights – something for everyone … just around the corner! New to The Mill’s roster, is the addition of a group who just love to “fiddle around”. Armed with a collection of virtually every musical instrument made, the good ol’ boys make an appearance on Tuesday’s from 7 – to – showcasing traditional Celtic music, song and dance that will absolutely chase the blues away especially when patrons join in with their “spoons” and then there’s no stopping them – trust me – I know!
Every now and then, a kindly gentleman of 90 years plus takes his turn at the mike with his harmonica bringing home some of his old favorite tunes from the war years to warmly share his memories of military service (WWII Lancaster pilot) in the company of good friends. The Mill doesn’t designate a big slice of its budget to flashy advertising campaigns nor does it shell out bundles of cash to some high flying promoter to attract the crowds. Bill and Aggie (with their daughters) work together to present home-style entertainment often featuring local musicians and both enjoy a good working partnership with local special community events organizers. Patrons and neighbors of The Mill have long recognized Bill and Aggie for their benevolent and humanitarian spirit and always come together to generously support The Mill every time Bill and Aggie open their doors to host a number of fundraising events in support of local charities. As a patron of The Mill and a tea-sipping aficionado of the Celtic life, I hope that you have an opportunity to experience the best that Windsor has to offer (especially on a Tuesday evening). Just bring a friend and your appetite for hospitality Mill “style” ’cause it’s good here – it’s all good too good to miss. Andrea Grimes, Windsor.