Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Searching For A Multicultural Hero

The Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County is now accepting nominations for the annual Herb Gray Harmony Award. The Herb Gray Harmony Award honours individuals and/or organizations whose efforts support and encourage a harmonious society.


This year’s deadline for nomination is Friday, January 14, 2011 by 5 pm.

If you know an individual, a business or an agency in our community who contributes to the spirit of multiculturalism, the Herb Gray Harmony Award is an excellent opportunity for recognition.

The nomination form is attached and a writeable version can also be found on the MCC’s website: http://www.themcc.com/events/HGnomination.php

The Harmony award, along with the Champion Award which celebrates the significant contributions first generation Canadians make to our community, will be presented at the 9th Annual Herb Gray Award Gala on Thursday, April 28, 2011 at the Ciociaro Club.

Please contact Laura Peters, Special Events Coordinator

Tel: 519.255.1127 ext. 191 l
lpeters@themcc.com if you have any questions!



by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Advice on Potential Travel Fees to Expect

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Southfield, MI – Forty-two percent of Americans plan to travel for the holidays this year according to a survey conducted by the world’s largest travel site, TripAdvisor. Based on recent survey results, TripAdvisor projects that among those traveling between the Christmas and New Year holidays this year, 22 percent will spend more than $2,000 on their travel expenses alone. In 2009, AAA estimated that 87.7 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles over the holidays.

To help travelers prepare for expenses and prevent last-minute surprises, BBB recommends that consumers review the list of travel-related businesses below that may charge additional fees. In addition, to confirm whether or not a travel product or service company is trustworthy, BBB offers consumers a mobile website with online business reviews at: m.bbb.org.

BBB recommends that consumers prepare for potential extra travel fees from the following types of businesses:

Airlines
Bag fees: Some airlines charge to check bags, so carry on one bag to cut down on this expense. Keep in mind that even if bag check-in is free, if your bag is over 50 pounds, you could still be charged an overweight fee.

Pet fees: Most airlines will accept pets if they are kenneled, but there is a charge of around $100. If you want your pet in the cabin with you, make a reservation, because generally, there is a limit on how many animals can be in cabin on a single flight.

Ticket changes: Plans can change, but keep in mind that your travel cost was determined by your original departure and arrival times. Changing these can cause you to pay more, especially during the holiday travel season.

Airport food and beverage vendors:
As flights are often delayed or canceled at the last moment, consumers should be prepared to purchase food and beverages as needed from the airport vendors. Bring a backpack with extra clothes and snacks to prevent additional expenses.


Hotels
Room Service: It is convenient, but if you can avoid ordering room service, it could save you a few dollars compared to eating out or packing something you can heat in your room.

Telephone and Internet Usage: Use your cell phone to make calls and check your hotel agreement before plugging into an Internet connection or accessing a wireless network. Sometimes fees for Internet access are billed by the day or by the hour.


Vehicle Rental Companies
Additional Drivers: You have to let the rental company know who will be driving the vehicle, but they may charge to have extra drivers on the rental agreement.

Fuel Fee: Most companies ask you to return their vehicle with a full tank of gas, or at the level it was before you left their lot. If you fail to do so, you may be charged later, and perhaps more for the inconvenience, when the company has to fill up the tank.

GPS and Car Seats: Even if your rental car comes equipped with GPS, you may be charged extra to use it. The same goes for child safety seats if you are traveling with young children. Make sure to ask the company about these fees before you begin your road trip.


Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Seniors' Gift Wish List Includes The Practical & The Unique

The holiday season is upon us...Our blogs offer some tips to stay safe, what's going on at the Devonshire Mall and also shopping for seniors (yours truly here!)

When shopping for a senior this holiday season, whether it is your parent, grandparent or neighbour, your gift will be a success if you purchase something practical or unique for your loved one. Some seniors have very specific gift requests.

“While socks and pyjamas tend to be the old mainstays, we work with seniors and their families all the time, and know that many seniors have special needs,” says Colleen Jershy of Home Instead Senior Care®. Home Instead Senior Care provides home care and companionship services for seniors in their home and in care facilities, and has 29 locations across Canada.

An analysis of thousands of senior gift requests conducted by the Home Instead Senior Care network reveals that the most popular holiday wishes of older adults are items such as blankets, slippers, pyjamas, and robes. You also can’t go wrong with food or homemade gifts, such as cards or holiday ornaments.

Be a Santa to a Senior®, the popular campaign that Home Instead Senior Care started seven years ago, has delivered 1.2 million gifts to 700,000 deserving seniors throughout North America. The campaign is gearing up again this holiday season and it is coming at a time when seniors need more of the bare necessities to get by.

Home Instead Senior Care makes Be a Santa to a Senior a reality by partnering with local retailers, non-profit agencies and volunteers from the community to ensure that isolated and less-fortunate seniors receive gifts and companionship during the holiday season.

“People naturally think of kids during the holiday season, but it’s easy to forget about seniors, some of whom can be lonely and isolated, and with no family members.” says Jershy. “Many seniors aren’t as mobile or nimble as they used to be, and find it difficult getting around in their own home or doing things in the kitchen. And then others have issues with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. For them, good gifts would be such things as hand-held electric can openers, neck pillows, and a wide variety of mind games to keep those brain cells active – video games, word puzzles, jigsaws, and memory games.”

Jershy is collecting names of seniors in the Windsor area and Essex County who are alone and otherwise unable to exchange gifts with friends and loved ones during the holiday season. She hopes to collect and distribute gifts on these seniors wish lists before Christmas.

“Seniors shouldn’t be alone at any time of year, but especially during the holidays,” adds Jershy. “Gifts that accomplish more than one action – such as a gift card to a restaurant that provides not only a meal but an excuse to go out – will benefit your loved ones in a big way.”

While seniors’ needs for the basics have increased this year, so has the generosity of those who are giving gifts to older adults, according to the Home Instead Senior Care analysis.

Although seniors may not openly admit, some prefer to receive unique gifts that they would otherwise not receive during the year instead of the practical necessities. Gifts seniors may want include items such as large-button phones, favourite perfumes or gift certificates for personal care such as a relaxation massage.

In Canada, there are 29 independently owned Home Instead Senior Care offices, including the one in Windsor-Essex. Services include companionship, meal preparation, medication reminders, light housekeeping, and escorts for errands and shopping. Home Instead Senior Care services are available at home or in care facilities from a few hours per week up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Thank you to Home Instead Windsor for collecting gifts for seniors--the community appreciates all you do!


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Biz X "Fire & Ice Afterglow" Friday Nov. 26th Downtown

NOV.26TH THE BIZ X “FIRE & ICE GALA!”


What are you doing Friday Nov. 26th at 10 p.m.? Going to the “hottest” event in town right? Don’t miss The Biz X “Fire & Ice Gala” at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, downtown Windsor!

2010 Biz X Award Winners (revealed in the Nov/Dec 2010 issue) will attend the exclusive gala invite for the dinner and awards ceremony beforehand but afterwards, we open the doors to the public to help us honour all the 2010 winners and nominees!

All nominees are invited to attend our celebration which is a charity fundraiser for Sparky’s Toy Drive with Bigg Wiggle, Windsor’s #1 band performing! We do hope all award nominees, past award winners, business associates and friends come out to help us party in style!

As well Arms Bumanlag from CKLW & The /A\ Channel will be guest DJ!

Those over the age of 19 can attend. Admission is just ONE new, unwrapped toy for Sparky. Gift certificates, children’s hats/gloves and cash donations also welcome.

Special thanks to our Afterglow sponsors –In Play magazine (and to Jack Rosenberg for his help with the concert), TV COGECO, Designs by Diane, Diversity Productions and Marz Media. Three cheers for Windsor Fire & Rescue Services too!

For more information on the Biz X “Fire & Ice Afterglow” please log on to www.bizxmagazine.com

And we hope to see you on the 26th!

deborah

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Call For Conservation Awards

Do you know someone who has contributed to environmental improvements in the past year? If so, The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) wants to hear from you! ERCA is calling for nominations for its 2010 Conservation Awards. These awards honour and recognize those in the community who have made outstanding contributions towards improving our natural environment, and ultimately the health and quality of life in the Essex Region.


There is a critical need for local environmental protection and restoration. While the United Nations has indicated that at a minimum, at least 12% of any region must consist of natural areas, in the Essex Region, merely 7.5% of our local landscape remains in its natural state. It is extremely important to recognize and thank all those who make a tangible contribution toward achieving this goal. The annual Awards will be presented to individuals and organizations in three categories:

The Education Award for excellence in conservation education programs or projects in schools, organizations, companies, youth groups, etc.

The Volunteer Award for outstanding effort in volunteering time and services for conservation programs and projects;

The Environmental Achievement Award for programs or projects undertook which have enhanced the region’s environment. In addition to individuals and organizations, municipalities can also be nominated for environmental achievements.

A new category has been added this year to recognize young leaders of conservation, with the Youth Award.

The Youth Award recognizes a youth leader who has undertaken habitat or conservation projects or activities and is a student in the elementary or secondary schools of our region.

To submit a nomination, simply write a one page summary of the individual or organizational accomplishments that merit the receipt of the award, or contact ERCA to receive a nomination form. Please be sure to include the category, name, address and phone number of the nominee, in addition to your own name, address and telephone number. Nominations close on Friday, December 10, 2010. The awards, presented since 1992, will be presented at ERCA’s Annual General Meeting on January 20, 2011.

For more information on any of these awards, please contact Susanne Tomkins at 519-776-5209 ext. 366. Nominations can be faxed to 519 776 8688, or e-mailed to stomkins@erca.org.

Nominations can also be submitted online or download a nomination form from erca.org on the About ERCA page and click on ‘Conservation Awards’.


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Mike Burton's Conspiracy Theory Debunked

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine

I am sure everyone has been reading about Ward 4 candidate's Mike Burton's press conference recently where he accuses Biz X magazine and myself, for hurting his campaign regarding the distribution of a April 2010 article by Mr. Alan Halberstadt (the incumbent Mr. Burton is running against in the 2010 Municipal Election).

View Mr. Burton’s six minute press conference video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vmxbS_ZcqQ posted by windsorcityblog.

Now, let's set the record straight Mr. Burton concerning your press conference.

1- At :40 you say “the article by the way is readily available on the Biz X website.” Ref for point #4 below.

2- At :58 you say “Alan's long time employer.” Mr. Burton, Alan Halberstadt is not an employee of Biz X Magazine. He is a freelance writer.

3 - At 1:45 you say “the Biz X lawyer called me on Monday and denied my request to reprint the article.” Mr. Burton, you had already printed this article without permission the week before.

4- At 3:00 you say, “However it appears Alan wants to keep his agenda hidden and that Biz X wants to stifle any debate on it.” Mr. Burton, the current and past issues of Biz X Magazine are available at http://www.bizxmagazine.com/ 24/7/365!!! There's no conspiracy here. It's called the Internet. Al Gore invented it! By all means spread our links around all you want . . . just don't photocopy copyrighted material that you do not have permission to use is all I asked.

5- At 3:58 you say “so in effect they have stopped my campaign in a very critical week.” WOW, one flyer has brought your entire campaign to a screeching halt? What are you going to do if you're elected when many issues are coming at you? We also question how you would handle the pressure of City Council when you state “Biz X Magazine is going to extraordinary lengths to cover up Mr. Halberstadt’s residential tax position.” “Extraordinary lengths! I sent you one polite email and you received one phone call?!?! We put the issue to rest, you kept it going.

6- At 4:50 you say “which by the way on the particular website page I took this from, there's no mention of copyright.” Mr. Burton the copyright notice is in the Masthead of any magazine and newspapers print it on random pages. On the website, it is not only in the Masthead but it is in the footer at the bottom of the home page. It reads “no artwork, contents or photos can be reproduced elsewhere without the consent of the Publisher”. So to note, Mr. Burton if you were to be elected, you will be reading many legal documents and you need to ensure that you read ALL the details and read EVERY page to make sure you follow the proper procedures!

The only issue here for us, was the copying you did and admitted to doing, of my property…that’s it.

Also to note, my magazine, Biz X has NEVER run any political ads nor supported any politician…We have kept totally out of this municipal election and have not favoured one candidate over another in ANY WARD nor in the race for the Mayor.

Also you are continually quoting snippets from an entire article and using it for your own means. You only wanted to use the April 2010 to benefit your political agenda, and I can not go along with this for you, nor any candidate in fact (so there is NO bias)…and this is the reason why I could not give you permission. However since the article is “readily available” as you say (and this was the one true statement you mentioned)…people are free to go and read ALL of Mr. Halberstadt’s articles.

Here's the link to the April 2010 issue so you can stop perpetrating this big spooky conspiracy against you. http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=35022 Mr. Halberstadt's column is on Page 6.

The residents of Ward 4, the citizens of Windsor and everyone here at Biz X (and the Windsor media too!), have heard plenty from you on your opinion of Mr. Halberstadt . . .the time is short for you to get your political platform out there and to stop commenting on others…what is your position—concentrate on that!

Mr. Burton, If you're going to take a run at me or my magazine, I'm going to stand up for myself!

Good luck to all candidates on Monday Oct. 25 – it’s an exciting time for all of us!

Monday, October 18, 2010

TIME TO VOTE OCT 25 IN WINDSOR ELECTION!

Election Office Reaching Out to Increase Voter Awareness


The City Clerk’s office for the City of Windsor has been committed this year to making it easy for every single eligible voter to vote in the municipal election, and that starts with spreading the word. Efforts are already paying off, as 8,059 people came out to vote in last week’s advance polls—a 70% increase over advance polls in 2006. While Windsor’s total voter turnout of approximately 38% in 2006 was respectable in comparison to other municipalities, the goal is to increase that number in 2010. This means reaching out by as many means as possible, some of them for the first time ever.


While all voting stations are accessible this year, voters at advance polls had the unique opportunity to take advantage of the AutoMark ballot marking device. This assistive device provided a number of helpful options including touch screen tactile buttons with Braille, sip/puff tube, rocker paddle, and a high contrast touch screen with zoom feature. To spread the word about this new service, the City sent informative flyers to a number of community service organizations detailing the AutoMark device, advance poll times and locations, and free Transit services to voting stations. All information was also posted on the official election website.


To reach seniors in the community, informative pamphlets have been supplied to 16 long-term care facilities and Centres for Seniors Windsor; and numerous polling stations have been located within senior centres. A Senior Voters page has been included at www.windsorelections.ca, and linked from the Windsor-Essex Seniors Portal and the Seniors Advisory Committee.

Homeless residents without a permanent address likely did not receive a voter notification card, but they are still eligible to vote. To ensure that homeless voters are on the Voters’ List and are given the opportunity to vote, City staff visited area shelters earlier this month to give unlisted residents the opportunity to be added to the list.

To encourage potential young voters to participate, Vote Out Loud Windsor (VOL) was created. VOL uses social media sites, videos and other promotions to get the word out about who can vote and how. Check out www.voteoutloudwindsor.com.

Residents can learn more about the election by calling 311 or visiting us online at www.windsorelections.ca and www.facebook.com/ElectionsWindsor2010. In addition to these resources, a brochure entitled “It’s Your Time to Vote” was mailed to every household in the city in September. Additional copies are available at City Hall while supplies last.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Monday, October 4, 2010

vote early in windsor municipal election

WANT TO VOTE EARLY? NOW'S YOUR CHANCE FROM OCT. 9 TO OCT. 16TH!

On October 9, from 9 to 6 p.m. at Devonshire Mall, voters in Windsor will have their first chance to vote early in the 2010 Municipal Election. Shop ‘n’ Vote in the Bay Centre Court will be the first of six advance voting days being held ahead of the October 25 Election.


There are no special requirements to vote at an advance poll. Any eligible voter can vote at any one of the six stations across the city. Residents should bring their voter notification cards to the voting station, and they must bring identification showing name, signature and qualifying address under this year’s new rule.

Here is a complete list of advance voting opportunities:

-October 9, 2010: Devonshire Mall

(3100 Howard Ave – 9:00am to 6:00pm)

-October 12, 2010: South Windsor Recreation Complex

(2555 Pulford – 10:00am to 8:00pm)

-October 13, 2010: College Avenue Community Centre

(3325 College Ave – 10:00am to 8:00pm)

-October 14, 2010: St. Angela Merici Church Hall

(750 Erie Street East – 10:00am to 8:00pm)

-October 15, 2010: Most Precious Blood Church

(1947 Meldrum Ave – 10:00am to 8:00pm)

-October 16, 2010: WFCU Centre

(8787 McHugh – 10:00am to 8:00pm)

Residents are reminded that they can find out which ward they are in under the new 10-ward system by checking their Voter Notification Card, calling 311, or visiting the Ward Locator at www.windsorelections.ca.


To learn more about the election, visit www.windsorelections.ca OR www.facebook.com/ElectionsWindsor2010.



by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

St. Clair Centre for the Arts Open House oct 2010

Have you always wanted to check out St.Clair Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West in Windsor?

Well now is your chance! Monday Oct 4th to Wednesday Oct. 6th from 4 to 9 p.m. the venue is hosting an OPEN HOUSE to celebrate the grand re-opening of the Canadian Club room.

Be sure to check it out...and you can get a sneek peek of where the 2010 Biz X annual awards gala will take place! For more details visit, http://www.stclair.centre.ca/

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Take A Coffee Break!

-Host a coffee break for The Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County anytime until October 31st, 2010!

The 15th annual “Coffee Break” is sponsored in part by Tim Hortons and Biz X magazine in the Windsor-Essex area. Participants make a donation in exchange for a cup of coffee or purchase a coffee cup cut-out at participating retailers or local organizations.

Your office can host a “Coffee Break” too - - all you need is a coffee maker! Many people also host a virtual “Coffee Break” online at www.alzheimercoffeebreak.ca.

All money raised supports critical local programs and services offered by the Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County, helping individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

Last year over $29,000 was raised and the fundraising goal of $30,000 has been set for 2010. To host a coffee break and receive a Tim Hortons Coffee Break Kit, call Maurizio Tiberia, 974-2220 ext 225.


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Distress Centre Needs Your Help!

The Distress Centre of Windsor-Essex County is looking for volunteers to provide emotional support and emergency crisis interventions to over 3,000 people who seek help every year.


Distress Centre executive director Rukshini Ponniah said she's noticed a drastic increase in the number of callers over the past year, partially due to the increase of economic uncertainty and strife so many in the Windsor-Essex Community are still faced with.

“We need people who are good listeners and are non-judgmental," she said. "We don't give advice. We listen to people, try to support them through whatever they’re going through, and provide them with community resources if they need further help."

Volunteers must participate in an extensive training program, which begins September 20th, and must be willing to work a minimum of 16 hours per month over a period of 12 months.

The Distress Centre is currently looking for candidates over the age of 19 who are capable of working in a stressful environment. Ponniah said experience is not necessary, but the ability to demonstrate empathy and skills taught during training is imperative. She said a large number of volunteers are University and College students from Social Services, Psychology, and Policing programs, but people of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to apply.

Ponniah said the Distress Centre will be sending out packages to employers in the different sectors during the Fall, so that more people can be made aware of the free, confidential and anonymous service that Centre Volunteers provide, 365 days a year. "Unfortunately, not a lot of people are aware of our existence in the community, so we're hoping to raise our profile." Additional promotion done with Employers and Service Agencies in the region, as well as advertising funded by Grants, has proved to sometimes double Call Volume.

Anyone interested in volunteering at the Distress Centre should e-mail support@dcwindsor.com with their availability for a brief Phone Interview before Sept. 15th. Those needing emotional support, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, or community referrals, are encouraged to call 519-256-5000 between 12 noon and 12 midnight.


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Monday, August 30, 2010

Food Drive Sept 4th At Devonshire Mall

THE COMMUNITY NEEDS OUR HELP!

In cooperation with Devonshire Mall and Real Canadian Wholesale Club, the Muslim Community of Windsor is hosting a Food Drive at Devonshire Mall on Saturday, September 4th from 12pm to 5pm.


The Muslim Community of Windsor is offering to purchase the items for people in need for $20 in order to donate (reusable) bags full of food and toiletries, or people can bring in the 12 items themselves to be packaged by volunteers at the mall that day.

For those who would like to donate physical items, the following 12 items are recommended: Pasta, Pasta Sauce, Flour, Sugar, Salt, Cooking Oil, One Can of Fruit, One Can of Vegetables, One Can of Soup, One Box of Rice, One Tube of Toothpaste, One bar of Soap

This year, the food bank recipients include Downtown Mission, Windsor Homes Coalition, Unemployed Help Centre, Drouillard Place, Well-Come Centre, and others of the like.

Muslim children will be sharing their happiness of the upcoming Eid ul-Fitr holiday, that commemorates the end of another successful month of fasting Ramadan. There will be treats, balloons, popcorn, clowns, face painting and flowers all in celebration of Eid. The weekend will be a busy shopping weekend for Muslims, preparing themselves for Eid by purchasing new clothes and gifts for loved ones.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

SHOULD THE WINDSOR MARKET STAY OR MOVE?

CITY ASKS MARKET TO MOVE, MARKET DECLINES

City of Windsor Wants to Sell Old Bus Station and Relocate Farmers’ Market

I recently received this from the market promoters in an attempt to let everyone know their side of the story-what's the city's? CAN A COUNCILLOR PLEASE RESPOND...

Here's what the market reps have to say...

In late April of 2010 the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market requested a 5-year lease from the City of Windsor for the use of the former bus depot site at 44 University Avenue East. A longer term lease would have qualified the market to apply for numerous grants and would have signaled to vendors that the City is firmly behind the project. Unfortunately, Windsor's City Council rejected that request, but agreed to lease the former bus depot site until the end of October 2010.

The market is now almost halfway through a very successful second season, but its future is uncertain. The market's volunteer committee has been asked to consider several other potential sites for 2011, but none of them offer as many benefits as the former bus depot site. The current location is accessible, inclusive, provides covered areas for vendors, has parking, is historically significant and offers room to expand.

In addition:

“One of the important factors for a market’s success is maintaining the same location for at least five years after start-up,” states Tristan Fehrenbach, vendor coordinator for the market. “If we move the market to a new location or if we take the market indoors, that could be our downfall.”

The former Greyhound bus station at 44 University Avenue East sat vacant for several years until the Downtown Residents Association (DRA) decided that it was time to bring a market back to the downtown core. A sub-committee of volunteers formed in the Spring of 2009 and the outdoor Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market was born on July 4, 2009. Now in its second year, the volunteer-run market is blossoming: vendors and visitor attendance has doubled and the feedback from the customers is amazing.

“We see families, tourists and downtown residents all enjoying the market. It is inclusive and accessible and vibrant,” says JoAnn Sabourin, the entertainment coordinator. “We’d love to work with the city to make this a permanent fixture in the downtown core. The location we have now is perfect and we feel that we have a plan to make this successful for everyone.”

The market is now seeking feedback on a business case for a long-term lease on the bus depot site that would allow it to pursue funding to restore the bus station to its former glory.

“We need to build up support and show the City that this is an important part of the core that should be addressed promptly. We need time to plan for the future or there might not be a market next year,” says Natalie Bownes, market co-chair.

The volunteers and vendors have worked very hard to make the market succeed and add value to the downtown core. Along with spin off dollars that area businesses are receiving, the market currently contributes in a number of other ways. The market hires a site manager, pays workers to clean the site on a regular basis, and pays for their own park amenities like picnic tables, umbrellas, and garbage bags. With a long-term lease the market committee could also apply for funding to help improve the building and make the interior accessible for washrooms.

About the Issue

In April 2010, the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market was denied a 5-year lease for its current location at 44 University Avenue East by the City of Windsor. The market has since been asked to consider alternate sites that do not meet its requirements and could affect the market’s existence in the future. The market is seeking community support to convince the city that a cooperative plan should be implemented to make the former bus station a multi-use space with parking during the week and the market on Saturdays.

About the Market

The Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market is a non-profit organization that operates through an 8 member Board of Directors consisting of one farmer vendor, two DRA members and 5 community representatives. The market celebrates the best of Windsor and Essex County with fresh, local produce, area artisans and entrepreneurs, baked goods and prepared foods, and live entertainment. The market runs from 8am to 1pm every Saturday until October 30 and is located at 44 University Avenue East.

If you'd like more information about the market please contact:
Tristan Fehrenbach (tristan@downtownfarmersmarket.ca)
Natalie Bownes (natalie@downtownfarmersmarket.ca)
Phone: (519) 915-9498
http://www.downtownfarmersmarket.ca/



by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Monday, July 19, 2010

FUNDS FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Funds Available for Community Projects!

The WindsorEssex Community Foundation announces the release of applications for their 2010 Community Impact Grants. Organizations can apply online for grants of between $2,000 and $10,000 by visiting their website at www.wecf.ca

Applications must be submitted by 4:30 pm on August 13th, 2010.

The foundation will seek to fund programs and projects which:

- involve collaboration and partnerships,

-build on existing community strengths and assets,

-respond to clearly identified local needs,

-strive for a significant and lasting impact on our community,

-benefit a wide audience,

-use resources efficiently and effectively,

-and, show innovation, creativity and a degree of risk.


The foundation takes a broad view of what communities need to succeed and provide grants for projects in:

-Arts, Culture and Heritage

-Education and Literacy

-Health and Human Service

-Environment

-Recreation

-Children and Youth

-Community Development

“It is invigorating to be able to support so many vital community assets, especially at this time,” states Susan Easterbrook, Chair of the Foundation’s Grants Committee. “Our committee looks forward to reviewing all the creative project ideas we know will come in.”

The WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF) is a perpetual community trust that manages donated funds, makes grants to support community programs, and facilitates working relationships between community organizations.

As one of Canada’s 165 community foundations, your Community Foundation helps Canadians invest in building strong and resilient places to live, work, and play. In 2009, Community Foundations across Canada provided $176 million in support of local priorities and organizations. Your Community Foundation is committed to helping make Windsor-Essex a better place to live, work, play and grow.


For further information please contact:

Mike Morency, Communications and Grants Coordinator

WindsorEssex Community Foundation

2575 Ouellette Place

Windsor, ON N8X 1L9

Phone: 519-255-6572

Fax: 519-255-6936

mmorency@wecf.ca

or visit www.wecf.ca

 

Sunday, July 4, 2010

ART WALK & ROCK

2010 ART WALK & ROCK IS COMING!

8th ANNUAL – Friday, July 16th & Saturday, July 17th, 2010 in Historic Walkerville...before you head out to Bluesfest International, plan to stop by this great event in Walkerville, Windsor..

Stroll through 40 plus shops and businesses and enjoy Walkerville’s history, appreciation of fine art, and our neighbourhood style!

The Walkerville BIA is proud to once again host Art Walkerville, bringing together a collection of Windsor and Essex County’s finest artists with many small businesses that call Walkerville "home". This exciting annual event, now in its 8th year, has brought thousands of people to the Walkerville neighbourhood to experience the flare of an area that is both trendy and respectful of its’ heritage.

Visitors to the event will have the opportunity to win $500 Walkerville Dollars by having their passport stamped at all participating locations on Friday, July 16th from 4 pm to 11 pm or Saturday, July 17th from 11 am to 5 pm. In addition, passport postcards will be mailed out to 20,000 Windsor residents, and made available at all participating shops beginning Thursday, July 1st, 2010.

This year Devonshire Rd will be closed to host approximately 40 additional artist’s booths.

There will be live entertainment featured both Friday & Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm – and a “Mojito Tent” sponsored by Lamb’s Rum. Many of Walkerville’s restaurants will be setting up booths inside the tent so you can taste their specialties.

Walkerville is a thriving and exciting place to be – there’s always something happening here – and this year’s event is bigger and better!


For more information call the Walkerville BIA

246-346-WBIA (9242)

519-919-8733 (alternate cell)

or Email: info@walkervilledistrict.com

Monday, June 28, 2010

YAHOO! THE GAMES ARE COMING TO WINDSOR!

International Children’s Games (ICG) Secured for Windsor Essex in 2013



The  ICG Committee announced that in a unanimous decision Windsor Essex has been awarded the 2013 Summer Games. And this is great news for local businesses in the hospitality industry!

Mayor Eddie Francis traveled to Bahrain to deliver a bid presentation to the 18 member ICG Committee. The Mayor highlighted the merits of Windsor Essex as a viable and preferred sport destination for this much sought after group.

The only youth sporting event officially sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the ICG is an organization that fosters peace and friendship through sport for youth between the ages of 12 to 15 years of age.

Over 2,000 athletes, coaches, family members and dignitaries will converge on Windsor Essex in June of 2013.

"Windsor is honoured to have been selected to host the largest youth sporting event in the world in 2013," said Mayor Eddie Francis. "The world wide exposure of Windsor Essex that will be gained is priceless."

"Windsor Essex has proven that they have the infrastructure and more importantly the passion and desire to host our Games," saysTorsten Rasch, President of the International Children's Games. "We feel confident in the Mayor and the City's ability to deliver a world class sporting event."


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Windsor Gets Spot On Canadian Monopoly board

The wait is over, and the verdict is in: Windsor is "on the board".

Windsor finished in 6th place, which means the most expensive yellow property on the board. This was a jump of two spots over 8th place, where Windsor sat on the leader board at the start of the blacked-out final week of voting in February.

“I was starting to get nervous, but we moved up two spots! Congratulations,” said Mayor Francis. “Thank you for being part of this exciting opportunity. We’re now on the board!”

Windsor competed with 64 other Canadian cities that were short-listed for the competition. Neighbouring Chatham-Kent won the top spot on the board, and Sarnia came in 4th. Mayor Francis congratulates our neighbours and acknowledged the big victory for South-western Ontario.

Hasbro’s MONOPOLY: Canada Edition hits stores June 28th.


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Monday, June 7, 2010

Red Bull Weekend

Wow what a great weekend it was..for red bull that is..weather did some major damage to Leamington and all of us at Biz X hope our business friends are all ok there...art in the park, still was a big success too despite having to close on the sunday..
but the Biz X team kept busy as usual with all the red bull action!

check out our photo here with Pete McLeod at the Kickoff Party at the Beach Bar & Grill on Friday the 4th..

well, another great year for Red Bull and we can not wait for the race to come back again in 2011!
Be sure to watch for the July/August issue of Biz X with all the great photos from the entire weekend!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Pete McLeod Comes To Town


On Friday May 21st, the Biz X team had an opportunity to once again interview Red Bull Air Race Pilot from London, ON - - Pete McLeod.

McLeod is the youngest pilot, not to mention the first-ever Canadian to participate in the Red Bull Air Race Championships and is taking the 2010 series by storm – climbing to a remarkable 5th place in the standings after stops in Abu Dhabi, Perth and Rio de Janeiro so far this year.

The May 2010 issue of Biz X featured an exclusive interview with McCleod and on May 21st Della and Colin Jones were able to snap a shot of Pete catching up on all the great stuff (and his story inside of course!) in this month's issue.

McLeod is now  preparing for the air races in Windsor on June 5 and 6, when Red Bull flies back into town! Look for more photos of our Canadian ace and the other pilots in our upcoming summer issue.

Welcome back Pete and good luck!

Read Biz X Magazine Here

Saturday, May 15, 2010

May 22 Plan to Attend the Musical DOT COM CITY OF DREAMS

Be sure to catch the production of...DOT COM CITY OF DREAMS...

May 22: The Chrysler Theatre at 8 p.m. Gallivanting Pictures presents “Dot Com City Of Dreams, The Musical.” Tickets are $26 or $20 for students.

You'll meet a Fairground Clown and a Computer Whiz Kid who is enticed by the lure of the big city and the prospect of wealth.

He is caught up in a world of modern technology, magic, fortune telling and dreams.

Suddenly everything changes when one day the fair arrives in town and mysterious Magique appears!

Visit cityofdreamsmusical.com to order your tickets!


by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Saturday, May 8, 2010

bealtaine

WE HOPE YOU CAN ATTEND ON MAY 15TH AN EVENT BIZ X MAGAZINE IS PROUD TO SPONSOR...


“Bealtaine” – Traditional Celtic Festival of Summer. Saturday, May 15th at Holy Names High School Theatre in Windsor. This Celebration of Celtic Culture will have live entertainment by: The Emerald Isle Irish Dancers, Music by ReGael, The Hart School of Highland Dance, The Essex Medieval Heritage Society, and The Scottish Society of Windsor Pipe Band. Doors Open 6:30 pm – Show Start 7 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults … $10 for kids under 12. Proceeds benefit the Emerald Isle Dance Society School Program.

For tickets visit http://www.eidswindsor.webs.com/ or call 519-988-1390.

 

Monday, May 3, 2010

May 2010--125th edition

Wow, where the heck does the time go...with the May issue it's our 125th edition! We've come a long way that's for sure but the best is yet to come!

Thank you to all our friends, suppliers, advertisers and readers for all your support! We couldn't do it without you! And most of all thanks to my family and staff for all their hard work and constant dedication!


So what are you waiting for...read our May issue now..it's jam packed with tons of great news in Windsor Essex! Click on the link below...and enjoy!

there are many more issues to come!!!!
by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Sunday, April 25, 2010

May 1st Karate Tournament


MAY 1ST—WHAT ARE YOU DOING?


COME OUT TO VIEW ALL THE ACTION AT BRIAN BRUNELLE’S SPECIAL TOURNAMENT!

Biz X award winner, Sensei Brian Brunelle hosts the Southern Ontario Open Martial Arts Championships taking place at 10 a.m. Saturday May 1st at the University of Windsor (St. Denis Centre), 2555 College Avenue, Windsor, ON

IT’S THE FIRST TIME THE NATIONAL SPORTS CIRCUIT VISITS THE WINDSOR AREA!

Spectators $10 adults, $5 children and seniors. Children under 5 can attend for free…and remember our American friends need their passport to cross the border!

If you wish to participate in the tournament…you are more than welcome to register at 8 a.m. on May 1st.

Triple Team Kata Challenge, $60 per team. Tournament starts with All Weapons Division followed by Forms and then Sparring.

YOU CAN WIN $500!

$50 for 1 event, $55 for 2 or $60 for all events.

Pre-registration $50 for all events.

The Championships include 75 divisions that range from children under the age of 6 to adults above the age of 40.

For more details visit www.brunellekarate.com and click on tournaments and events.

Contact Brian Brunelle, 519-564-0430 or email brunellekarate@sympatico.ca

 

Monday, April 19, 2010

4th Annual National Volunteer City Celebration Apriil 18 to 24, 2010

Windsor Rocks! The City of Windsor Values Its Volunteers...

National Volunteer Week, April 18 to April 24, pays tribute to the millions of Canadian volunteers across the country who give of themselves to better their communities and the organizations that rely on lives of others. National Volunteer Week is a time for all of us to pause and celebrate the energy and commitment of volunteers.

Volunteering is the lifeblood of Canadian communities. It provides us with a sense of connectedness and well-being. It allows us to participate in nurturing our environments, bringing people together – in hospital corridors, in schools, on playing fields and in board rooms – for good reasons and common purposes. It develops within us an understanding of people who are different – people with disabilities, people in financial distress, children or the elderly. It allows us to give of ourselves, share our wealth, and express our human values of community and caring while finding solutions to shared challenges. Volunteering helps us build better, stronger, healthier communities.

Volunteers read, cook, coach, mentor and train. They donate, give, chair, befriend and lend a helping hand. They plant, feed, soothe, visit, sew, plan, coordinate, paint, clean, sort and prepare. They are the young and the old and the in between. And they are everywhere cross this nation.

According to the 2008 National Survey of Nonprofit and Voluntary Organizations, more than half of Canadian non-profit organizations rely solely on volunteers to fulfill their mission. Canadians volunteer more than two billion hours a year, equivalent to more than one million full-time jobs. They have an enormous impact on civil society.

The City of Windsor is a vibrant community in part by the support of necessary programs and services provided to the citizens with a variety of organizations and service groups. On Thursday, April 22nd in recognition of National Volunteer Week and Earth Day Canada, Mayor Eddie Francis invites the community to join in the celebration.

This National Volunteer Week, be sure to reach out and thank someone you know who volunteers. Join Mayor Francis and his team April 22nd, 6:30 pm – 8:30pm at Caboto Club for the 4th annual National Volunteer City Celebration – Windsor Rocks! We value volunteers...

Keynote speaker will be Lydia Dorman, Vice President of Human Resources for Coca Cola Ltd Canada. The event theme will embrace local and national success stories.

For more details contact Nora Bertram Romero, 1-519-255-6100 x6309

or email: nromero@city.windsor.on.ca


Friday, April 16, 2010

Awesome Week For Windsor Essex!

WOW what a week April 12 to 16th has been! On Wednesday the 14th it was the Windsor Essex Regional Chamber awards and it is always such a delight to see local business owners at their finest...The Chamber's organizing committee did a wonderful job of transforming the ground floor of the Chrysler building into a great gala setting...and the food by Koolini's and Chef Mimmo was wonderful...I can't even cook for one person but yet they managed to coordinate a gourmet dinner for 700 guests...all in that empty warehouse that was transformed for the day..

And congrats to all business excellence awards finalists and winners..you should be proud of your accomplishments ...everyone at Biz X especially is happy for our friends Charlie Regan, Imad from  Mazaar, Martin from Advanced Basements, the Bertoni family from Cleardeck, Nick and the boys at Suede, Charlotte Loaring and all our friends atWFCU...your hard work paid off..and the community is thankful for all you do....

Biz X was there to help celebrate of course and if you missed this gala, watch for the photos in the MAY issue..

As well last night was fantastic and kudos to ERCA for putting together the enviro expo and bringing US President Bill Clinton to Caesars Windsor...Clinton had a number of inspirational ideas in his speech for everyone --we just need to all do one small part to help the environment and we can make the world a better place to live for all...

So Windsor, things are looking up...it's our moment to shine!!!!

Here's to a bright future for all of us!


by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Afternoon Tea anyone?


What began as a simple afternoon tea with a few good friends has turned into an annual fundraising event with personal significance for Liz DelCiancio.


After visiting England with her daughter Sarah in 2008 and attending a traditional Afternoon Tea, the mother-daughter duo decided it would be fun to bring the experience home and share it with a few of their closest friends. The women celebrated International Woman’s Day in 2009 over afternoon tea and enjoyed themselves so much that they decided to make it an annual event to benefit a local charity.

The charity of choice wouldn’t become clear to Liz until later that year, after discovering a lump in her breast. Last December Liz was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma – the most common form of breast cancer. Following a lumpectomy and axillary dissection to determine if the cancer had spread to surrounding lymph nodes, Liz began the long road on her treatment journey, which includes three months of chemotherapy.

In February Liz attended a workshop at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre to learn how to apply make-up, wigs and scarves in anticipation of the inevitable hair loss that is a common side effect of chemotherapy drugs. And then on March 1st, instead of dealing with the gradual loss of her hair, Liz shaved her head. While shopping for her own wigs, it became clear to Liz where she wanted to donate the proceeds from her tea parties: the Image Enhancement Room at the Cancer Centre. The program provides wigs, hats and scarves to those experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment, at no cost, because many cancer patients simply don’t have insurance coverage to purchase wigs.

And so on March 20th, Liz held the first annual “Elizabethan Afternoon Tea” at her home. The group assembled enjoyed tea sandwiches, scones and jam, a selection of desserts and a variety of teas. The wonderful staff of the Cancer Centre and the Ontario Breast Screening Program donated tea cups for the event which in a mere two hours raised over $2,000! Plans are already underway to take the event out-of-doors next year to accommodate even more woman for a garden party, complete with fancy hats!

Liz hopes to travel back to England next summer with Sarah and attend the Queen’s Tea Party.

Donations to the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre are accepted through the Windsor & Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation, an independent, community-based and volunteer-led charity. It has raised more than $15 million in the community over 14 years, which has enabled the purchase of equipment, including state-of-the-art MRI and CT scanners, and enhancements to patient care and treatment at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre. Funds are also used to assist cancer patients in need and to support locally-based cancer research. 100% of all funds raised are used in and for the Windsor-Essex community.



Friday, April 9, 2010

Kitchen Nightmares April 9, 2010

Remember the Biz X issue in July/August when we interviewed Gordon Ramsay...well the issue featuring the Macomb, MI restaurant is on FOX TV April 9, 2010...9 pm.

Don't miss it, you just might see Deb, Jack, Janice or Mike from Biz X in it or our client, Mary Ellen Dwyer testing out the food!

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Tuesday, March 30, 2010

April 2010

“We’ve Got The Whole World In Our Hands”


Timed with Earth Day celebrations on April 22nd which revolve around taking care of the planet, we here at Biz X have chosen a WORLD theme for this issue. We have tons of great businesses representing many different cultures and countries right here in Windsor-Essex and it’s time to honour our multiculturalism. So fasten your seatbelt, hold on to your computer mouse and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Copy and paste this link to your address bar  http://www.bluetoad.com/publication?m=1034&l=1

to see the entire April 2010 edition of Biz X magazine or click on the link below!

What can you read about in this issue?

-Windsor-Essex: Land Of Opportunity & Multicultural Businesses

-The Buzz On “Facebook”….Local Companies Give Us The Scoop

-It’s Time To Shift The Tax Burden Off Small Businesses

-Plus articles on; New Balance Windsor; Chef Daniele Palanca; Helping Those In Haiti; Marketing Advice From Mainstream Marketing; Aerus Air Purifiers; The Spitfire & Firkin; Richmond Motors; The Pasta & Pizza Fest; Things To Do; The Green Bean Café; Awnings By Inland Innovative; Columns By Experts In Law, Stocks, Motivation, Arms Bumanlag; Detroit Tigers Season Preview; Our Popular Event Photo Pages And A Whole Lot More!

As always post your comments if there is something you like in this issue or also if there is a story you would like us to cover!


Biz X is there for you!

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Monday, March 29, 2010

WINDSOR POWERS DOWN FOR EARTH HOUR

On Saturday March 27th, Windsor and area residents joined with hundreds of millions of people around the world to raise awareness for climate change by turning off their lights for Earth Hour 2010. While there were certainly some power grid savings, this is much more than an effort to save hydro.

Michael Duben, Vice-President -Customer Relations at ENWIN Utilities, says, “Earth Hour represents so much more than just turning off your lights once a year for an hour. It’s about building awareness of the importance of conservation and climate change in general.”

“Earth Hour 2010 was a testament to the power of people,” says Duben. “It’s incredible to imagine hundreds
of millions of people demonstrating their commitment to standing up to a sustainable future. It is clear from the level of participation in Windsor and Essex County that we’re willing to be part of that future.”

ENWIN Utilities Ltd. participated in the Earth Hour initiative by posting information on their website, airing a
radio campaign to inform customers and messaging on their call centre. “We monitored the load on the grid,and were able to record a 2% reduction during Earth Hour,” states Lawrence Musyj, Director of Conservation Programs. “This is enough electricity to power nearly 1,700 homes for one hour. Provincially there was a 4% demand reduction – enough to power a city the size of Brampton for one hour!”

“While we’re proud of our participation in Earth Hour, it’s important to understand that ENWIN Utilities participates in energy conservation every day,” says Musyj “Our conservation programs include our Great
Refrigerator Round-up Program, Power-Saving Blitz, Peaksaver and others. We’re committed to sustainability and energy savings as a natural extension of our work within the community.”

For more information visit www.ENWIN.com.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Participate In Earth Hour Saturday March 27, 2010


Earth Hour is an international "lights out" event, with the goal of having as many individuals and businesses, on a world-wide basis, turn off their lights for one hour from 8:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. on Saturday March 27, 2010, to raise awareness about climate change and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2009 eighty-eight (88) countries and over four thousand (4,000) cities participated in Earth Hour, ten times more than Earth Hour 2008. The city of Windsor is proud to be a part of this global event.

When? Saturday March 27, 2010 from 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Who? “I encourage all of our residents and businesses to observe Earth Hour this coming Saturday night from 8:30 p.m. - 9:30p.m. Windsorites have long recognized the importance of community and together, through conservation, we will build be a more sustainable community for future generations” says Mayor Eddie Francis. "On behalf of City Council I thank everyone in advance for their individual efforts in taking part in this global initiative."

Why? Switching off lights is just one simple action that individuals can take to help make a difference, and it sends a powerful message that we care about our planet. Everyday actions, like turning off unnecessary lights, can make a big difference. All City of Windsor facilities will turn off all non-essential lighting during this Earth Hour.

“The City of Windsor encourages all individuals and businesses to support Earth Hour. For more information on Earth Hour please visit www.earthhourcanada.org . For information on how you can conserve energy during this important hour, and always, please visit www.enwin.com” says Chris Brown, Acting Environmental Coordinator for the City of Windsor.


 

Sunday, March 14, 2010

What Did U Get Up To Saturday Night?


Ah Saturday night always a time when it's good to get out and experience the city!

Last night I had the chance to get to Hurricane's in the olde Sandwich towne for some wings..they were excellent...my friends and i munched on all kinds of wings from hot & spicy, to teriyaki, to honey garlic and cajun..they have a ton of choices and definitely are one of the best places to chow down on some chicken wings! Guess the other patrons thought so too, as two tables ordered 200 wings each! Now that's a ton of wings!

Then we headed off to Leo's Komedy Korner...Leo and his team of comedians gave me a much deserved laugh after a very stressful work week..we attended the event as a benefit for the Amherstburg Angels baseball team..and because of this I learned that the club can do fundraising events..great idea!
So keep Leo's on your list of fundraising possibilities for about 150 people...

Ah now, it's on to St. Patty's Day..you'll definitely be able to spot members of Biz X at Mick's Irish Pub, Koko Pellies, the new Spitfire & Firkin Pub (Our Lady Peace is playing there!) and the Vic Tavern....where will you be? if anyone has any hot spots..let us know..

Monday, March 8, 2010

home show giveaway

WANT GREAT PUBLICITY FOR JUST THE COST OF A GIFT CERTIFICATE???


ATTENTION ALL BUSINESS OWNERS IN WINDSOR-ESSEX!

YOU CAN PARTICIPATE IN OUR CONTEST GIVEAWAY at the Biz X magazine booth at the WINDSOR HOME & LEISURE SHOW at the EXPO CENTRE MARCH 26 TO MARCH 28!

Thousands of visitors will stop by our booth to pick up a copy of the MARCH 2010 print issue of Biz X. We will be giving them a business card to take home so that they remember to go to our website to sign up for a FREE digital subscription to receive the magazine every month…


From the new sign-ups that we receive, we will choose email addresses as winners for certain prizes, donated by our advertisers and friends.

Don't miss this great promo!!!

IF YOU GIVE A PRIZE... it will be listed on our website (with a free link to yours) with the winning email address next to it…and your company name and prize will be on a poster at our booth as well (visitors will read this to see the list of prizes). PLEASE EMAIL DEBORAH@BIZXMAGAZINE.COM BY MARCH 17TH SO WE CAN PRINT UP OUR PRIZE SHEETS IN TIME AND BE SURE TO DESCRIBE WHAT YOU ARE DONATING SO IT IS CORRECT ON OUR LISTING.


If you can donate a $50 gift certificate (or more) please mail it to us asap..we need all gift certificates by March 22, 2010.

Please mail your gift certificate to ..
Biz X magazine
Attention Home Show Contest
7720 Tecumseh Road East, PO Box 27035
Windsor, ON
N8T 3N5
by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Monday, March 1, 2010

DRAGONS' DEN AUDITIONS IN WINDSOR MARCH 8!

Unfortunately I only heard about this today so I could not get it in the March issue..but i am bringing it to you now via my blog...

ARE YOU READY TO FACE THE DRAGONS?


Auditions for Season Six heat up in Windsor on March 8th, 2010!

Do you have a hot new invention or the next million-dollar idea? Think you have the money-making chops to take on the savviest business tycoons in the country? Then Dragons’ Den wants to hear from you!

The DRAGONS’ DEN production team will be in Windsor scouting for Season Six of the hit series on CBC Television. The show gives aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their businesses to a panel of wealthy Canadian moguls for the chance to earn real cash and real investment – from the Dragons' own pockets!

Open auditions are taking place on March 8th, 2010 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Windsor-Essex

Regional Chamber of Commerce, 2575 Ouellette Place.

No experience is necessary – just be ready to pitch your business in under five minutes. If you can convince producers you’re ready for the limelight, you could be invited to face the Dragons when the upcoming season is filmed in Toronto.

And as extra incentive this year -- entrepreneurs with an eco-friendly business, invention or idea could qualify for a $100,000 “Greenvention” prize from Sun Chips.

Please apply online and bring your completed application form to the auditions. More details can be found

on the show’s website at cbc.ca/dragonsden.

AND GOOD LUCK TO ALL WINDSORITES!!!!


by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


March 2010 issue

“Dreams Can Come True”



Spring is right around the corner, and that means it’s time for the Windsor Home & Leisure Show! This year the show may be one month earlier, but it still features over 200 exhibitors and an exciting project (for 2010 it’s called Dreamland)! Of course, Biz X has the EXCLUSIVE on all the details!

Click on the link at the bottom of this blog to access the March 2010 edition…
Or type in http://www.bluetoad.com/publication?m=1034&l=1

What can you read about in this issue?

-The Dreamland Project: Luxury Right In Your Own Home

-Fashionable Furniture Shops in Windsor-Essex

-Things To Do This March Break For Families

-Plus articles on; The Daycare Dilemma; Rick’s Insulation; The Windsor Chamber BEA Finalists; Cathy Stevens of Essex Appliance; Innovative Coatings; Seasons Amherstburg; Oxford Hyperbaric Therapy Centre; Cutie Pies Hair Salon; What’s Cooking With The Pasta House; Solution Linx Leadercast Event; Earthen Herbals; Columns By Experts In Law, Stocks, Motivation, Arms Bumanlag; Our Popular Event Photo Pages And A Whole Lot More!


The team at Biz X magazine will be out in full force at the home show, March 26 to 28 at the Windsor Expo Centre…be sure to stop by our booth and find out how you can win some great contest prizes when you sign up for a FREE digital subscription…

As well don’t forget to become a fan of Biz X on facebook at

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Biz-X-Magazine/272372053217



by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine



Thursday, February 18, 2010

Sad news for those in the D


In a recent Forbes magazine poll, Detroit holds the #4 spot as the "Most Miserable City"




Forbes used the following criteria to makes its assumptions...

Unemployment

Taxes (sales and income)

Commute times

Violent crime

Pro sports teams

Weather

Superfund pollution sites

To put a shackle on the top reasons that make a city miserable...political corruption based on convictions of public officials!



Cleveland, Ohio holds top honors in the category.
 
So what are your thoughts?


by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Help Frank Help Haiti.” On Tuesday, March 9

Windsor Benefit to Raise Funds for Damaged Haitian Orphanage


What does a six foot-two, 240-pound retired detective from the Windsor Police Service do with his spare time? If you’re a people-oriented person named Frank Chauvin, you continue to follow your calling in life and give of yourself to help others.


In 1988, Frank accompanied a physician to Haiti in order to observe first hand, a nation in need. He founded Le Foyer des Filles Chretiennes Orphanage, which has provided shelter, sustenance, hope and faith to hundreds of young girls. The 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti on January 12, 2010 changed everything. Three 18-year old girls and one worker from the orphanage were killed that day, and the buildings are now declared unsafe for the girls.

The cities of Windsor and Calgary are partnering to “Help Frank Help Haiti.” On Tuesday, March 9, Mayor Eddie Francis and City Council invite you to attend a concert and benefit evening, which will be held at the Giovanni Caboto Club with all proceeds going toward rebuilding and re-establishing the orphanage. The evening will include a silent art auction, musical entertainment, speakers and video presentations. Further details regarding the evening’s program will be released shortly. Calgary will be holding a similar event the following day.

“Frank Chauvin and his colleagues have long since demonstrated that the generous heart of the City of Windsor is open not only to our own citizens but to the world,” said Mayor Eddie Francis. “Now, we can help Frank rebuild this orphanage for the Haitian children who need it so much.”

The event begins at 7:00 p.m. and admission will be $10. For ticket information, please call (519) 255-6550.

BIZ X WILL BE THERE....YOU NEED TO BE TOO!



by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine

PLAY WINDSOR SPITFIRES TRIVIA

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine


Friday, February 5, 2010

WORLD CANCER DAY

Yesterday, February 4 wasWorld Cancer Day. ..I am sure we all know someone who has been diagnosed with this dreadful disease...and I wish there could one day soon be a cure so that no one has to suffer any more.

Tobacco continues to be the number one preventable cause of disease, death and disability in Canada. Tobacco use contributes to 85 percent of lung cancers and 30 percent of all cancer cases. Evidence suggests that it takes a smoker several attempts before quitting successfully. Though smoking is one of the toughest addictions to break, every quit attempt is important.

Do you smoke? Then pay attention to this.."The Driven to Quit Challenge" may give you the extra incentive they need to become smoke-free for good. Join the Challenge before the end of February, get support from Smokers’ Helpline and quit smoking for the month of March -- not only will your health improve but you could win some great prizes – like a BRAND NEW CAR!

For more information, www.driventoquit.ca or call Smokers’ Helpline at 1 877 513-5333 or the local Canadian Cancer Society office at 519-254-5116.
by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine




CLICK ON ANY PAGE TO SEE THE LATEST ISSUE!

Monday, February 1, 2010

February 2010 issue

ONCE YOU “START UP” BIZ X, WE NEVER STOP!

TIME AGAIN FOR OUR ANNUAL AUTO ISSUE!

SO WILL YOU “START UP” A CAR THAT’S GAS OR ELECTRIC OR BOTH? (COVER SHOT THIS ISSUE IS OF A FORD ESCAPE HYBRID FROM PERFORMANCE FORD LINCOLN THAT DOES BOTH!).

WE INVESTIGATE THE CARS THAT TURNED HEADS AT THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW AND WE’LL GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNIN’ WITH PLENTY OF EXCITING EDITORIAL THAT YOU WON’T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE BUT IN BIZ X & IN PLAY MAGAZINES! ENJOY!

Click at the bottom of this blog on any page to see the new FEB 2010 issue!

What can you read about in this issue?

-Let’s Get This Show On The Road—Annual Auto Show Review

-SCREECH! Bang! Yikes, The Car’s Smashed! Local Collision Shops To The Rescue!

-Burgers, Beer and Wings! It’s A Windsor Pub Crawl!

-Plus articles on; Local Preference Tenders & The City’s Audit; Duarte & Lesperance; Velvet Financing; Adrian Steel; Beating The Winter Blues With Arms Bumanlag; Montessori’s Julie Roy; Mick’s Irish Pub; Garland Lodge; The Pour House Pub; Europa Marble & Granite; Columns By Experts In Law, Stocks, Computer Security And Of Course Our Popular Event Photo Pages!

NEXT UP—MARCH 2010 –SPECIAL HOME SHOW EDITION! If your business targets home owners, you don’t want to miss being in this issue –extra copies will be passed out at the Windsor Home & Leisure Show at the Expo Centre!

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine





CLICK ON COVER!

Friday, January 22, 2010

Bayshore & Haiti Donation

The devastating effects of the earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12 have resulted in


a world wide response...and of course Windsorites answered the call as well...In the february issue of Biz X you will see a few examples of companies pitching in to help..

but there is one more I need to mention..I received the information after our print deadline but I still wanted to tell our readers out it..so I am using my blog now to do so..

To assist in this effort to help the people of Haiti, Bayshore Home Health’s National Service Centre (NSC)will match donations raised by branches by February 5 and donate funds to World Vision.

World Vision is a leader in disaster relief and emergency aid. Bayshore conducted a similar

effort with World Vision in 2005, for Tsunami relief.

Donations can be made a number of ways:

•A personal cheque made payable to World Vision and delivered to your local branch by February 5. NSC will accumulate all donations, match them and forward the total amount to World Vision.

•Cash donations are being collected at some branches in donations jars.

Please check with your branch if it is raising donations in this manner. All money collected will be forwarded to NSC by February 5. NSC will match these donations and forward total amount to World Vision.

•If you wish to receive a tax receipt for your donation, you can make an online

donation at www.worldvision.ca

. Please provide a copy of your donation acknowledgement to your branch by February 5, who will forward it to NSC, match it and forward the total amount to World Vision

In addition, all money donated to relief agencies such as World Vision by February 12 will be matched
by the Canadian government, thereby doubling Bayshore’s overall donation.

For more details call the Windsor branch at 973-5411...

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine




CLICK ON ANY PAGE TO SEE THE LATEST ISSUE!

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

WINTER BITES THE WEEK OF JANUARY 17TH

Now is your chance to try some new restaurants and some great grub!

During Winter Bites, January 17 to January 23, 2010, diners can visit any participating restaurant and indulge in a 3-course meal for only $10 or $15 for lunch or $25 or $35 for dinner. Each restaurant will offer a unique Winter Bites menu where diners can select from a variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts.

“We want to add excitement to the hospitality industry during a traditionally slow month,” explains Adriano Ciotoli, co-owner of WindsorEats.com. “2009 was a difficult year for culinary tourism in Windsor/Essex. We lost some exceptional restaurants. This is one way to support the local restaurant industry. We encourage everyone to get out and visit participating local restaurants and businesses.”

Participating restaurants include Mezzo Ristorante and Lounge, Black Kettle Bistro, Chanoso’s, Oishii, Per Bacco Ristorante, and more to be added. A complete listing of events, participating restaurants and menus can be found at www.windsoreats.com/winterbites Reservations are recommended to ensure a seating upon your arrival. The meals are per person and does not include beverages, taxes or tip.

“Restaurant weeks and prix fixe menu events have been done with great success in cities like Chicago, Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto,” says Ciotoli. “It was time to bring that same concept to Windsor but add our own little twist to it. Having local businesses participate is a wonderful way to celebrate all the great things we have in Essex County.”

In addition to great deals on dining, Winter Bites is adding something new this year. Local businesses are offering savings and hosting events.

Aleksander Estate Winery is offering discounted prices on select wines, Black Kettle Bistro is incorporating some of Windsor’s finest artistic talents to create not only a great culinary experience, but, a great taste of the Windsor arts and music scene and Slice of Style will be hosting a chocolate tasting accompanied with local wines.

“We are thrilled to be hosting this event as part of Winter Bites - the first "food festival" of the new year,” says Kelly Ouellette, owner of Slice of Style. “As a new business getting the word out is critical and Winter Bites is helping us connect with a very diverse local audience.”

For more information visit WindsorEats.com events

And let me know where you went and what you tried...leave your comments right here on this blog! I would love to hear from you....

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine






CLICK ON ANY PAGE TO ACCESS!

Sunday, January 17, 2010

GET A BOOTH AT JOB FAIR AND HELP DOWNTOWN MISSION

WANT A BOOTH AT THE JOB FAIR & BUSINESS EXPO HELD JANUARY 21 AT THE CABOTO CLUB?

CareernNiche is auctioning off  1 booth for the Job Fair and 1 booth for the Business Expo (the last booth) at 8:30 am MONDAY JANUARY 18TH with all these proceeds going to the Downtown Mission.


Value of Business Expo booth is $500 or Job Fair booth is also $500. The auction starts at 8:30 am and runs until 11 am. Bidding starts at $100!

bid at http://www.careernichevents.com/

AND WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 21ST!



by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine






CLICK ON ANY PAGE TO SEE THE LATEST ISSUE!

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

HELP WINDSOR GET ON MONOPOLY CANADA

The City of Windsor invites your organization to help with the push to win Windsor a spot on Hasbro’s MONOPOLY Canada. VOTE FOR OUR CITY AT  http://www.monopolyvote.ca/.
BUT DO IT BEFORE FEBRUARY 7TH!
 Voters can choose up to three cities each day, and the top 20 cities will be included on the game board.
The city with the most votes will occupy the highest rent property, traditionally held by Boardwalk.

COME ON WINDSORITES, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!


by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine







CLICK ON ANY PAGE!

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

PRESENTING OUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2010

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR READERS, ADVERTISERS AND SUPPORTERS!

THOUGH A NEW DECADE HAS BEGUN, AND THE TIMES-THEY- ARE-A-CHANGIN’ (FOR THE BETTER WE HOPE!), ONE THING WILL ALWAYS REMAIN THE SAME—BIZ X IS HERE TO STAY!

AS WE ENTER OUR 13TH YEAR OF PUBLISHING THE REGION’S #1 FAVOURITE MAGAZINE, WE PREDICT IT’S GOING TO BE ANOTHER GREAT YEAR FOR BUSINESSES IN WINDSOR-ESSEX! AND WE WILL BE HERE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR TO BRING YOU ALL THE WONDERFUL NEWS IN THE AREA!


What can you read about in this issue? CLICK ON THE FLIPPING PAGES BELOW TO ACCESS THIS ISSUE...

-Cold & Flu Season Is Here But Local Pharmacists Can Ease Your Pain

-Getting Hitched? We Profile Local Photographers & The 2010 Wedding Odyssey Show

-The Fitness & Lifestyle Expo Returns For Round Two

-Plus articles on; The Job Fair & Business Expo; The Provincial Offences Officers At Windsor City Hall; Books For Less; From The Red Carpet At The Annual Biz X Awards Gala; Cedar Springs Decks & Fences; Royal Oak Village LaSalle; 3 Girls And A Cupcake; Thai Lanxang; Brides To Be Shows; Edward Anthony Construction And Our Popular Event Photo Pages!


Enjoy...

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine






CLICK ON COVER!

A POEM ON HST

I received this today in an email....it may seem funny but it's really not! The HST in my opinion, is not a good thing whatsoever...WHAT DO YOU THINK? post your views here...

Tax his land, Tax his bed, Tax the table, At which he's fed.

Tax his work, Tax his pay, He works for peanuts, Anyway!

Tax his cow, Tax his goat, Tax his pants, Tax his coat.

Tax his tobacco, Tax his drink, Tax him if he tries to think.


Tax his car, Tax his gas, Find other ways To tax his ass.

Tax all he has, Then let him know , That you won't be done, Till he has no dough.


When he screams and hollers; Then tax him some more, Tax him till, He's good and sore.


Then tax his coffin, Tax his grave, Tax the sod in, Which he's laid.


When he's gone, Do not relax, It’s time to apply, The inheritance tax.


CHECK OUT THIS LIST OF TAXES....
Accounts Receivable Tax
Airline surcharge tax
Airline Fuel Tax
Airport Maintenance Tax
Building Permit Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Death Tax
Dog License Tax
Driving Permit Tax
Environmental Tax (Fee)
Excise Taxes
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment (UI)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Gasoline Tax (too much per litre)
Gross Receipts Tax
Health Tax
Hunting License Tax
Hydro Tax
Inheritance Tax
Interest Tax
Liquor Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Mortgage Tax
Personal Income Tax
Property Tax
Poverty Tax
Prescription Drug Tax
Provincial Income and sales tax
Real Estate Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Retail Sales Tax
Service Charge Tax
School Tax
Telephone Federal Tax
Telephone Federal, Provincial and Local Surcharge Taxes
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Water Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
--- and in 2010 the HST!

STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY?
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, & our nation was one of the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt, had a large middle class, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids. What the heck happened? Can you spell 'politicians?'
by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine




CLICK ON COVER!