By Mohsin Abbas
The Windsor/Essex County Music Recognition Awards made a spirited return this September, drawing full houses on two consecutive Saturdays and shining a spotlight on local talent while raising funds for Crime Stoppers.
The revived celebration took place Sept. 14 and Sept. 21 at the Windsor Moose Lodge. Over the two nights, 33 individuals were recognized for their contributions to music and community life across the region.
Among the honorees was Tilbury Times editor Matt Weingarden, who received recognition on opening night for his long-standing support of community causes through both music and media. “My love for writing and sharing stories about local musicians began many years ago,” Weingarden said. “I am proud to continue bringing those stories to our region.”
The second evening honored 21 more recipients whose musical efforts have enriched Windsor and Essex County. Both nights drew enthusiastic audiences from across the region and beyond.
The awards were created by Ken Koekstat, a retired Windsor police officer and lifelong musician. Koekstat, who spent 17 years with Crime Stoppers and has been performing at charity events since 1965, launched the recognition program in 2009. Between its inception and 2019, the initiative honored 114 people and raised more than $20,000 for Crime Stoppers and other local causes.
Following a pandemic-related pause, Koekstat and a dedicated team—including Dianne Bussey-Bako, Robert Demarais, Steve Laforet and Karen Tinsley—worked to revive the event in 2025. “It’s not a Hall of Fame,” Koekstat said, “but a heartfelt thank you to those who’ve used their gifts to support their communities.”
Crime Stoppers Windsor & Essex County, the beneficiary of the awards, provides a confidential channel for citizens to report crimes. The nonprofit program offers rewards of up to $2,000 for tips that lead to arrests and relies on cooperation between media, law enforcement and volunteers. Its local office operates out of LaSalle Police Headquarters.
This year’s success has given the awards renewed momentum. As Koekstat reflected, “Making our community a safer place starts with recognizing those who give back—and music is one of the most beautiful ways to do that.”
