Deborah Jones Off the Record

"Business, Government Services and You" Feb 22 Free Event!

2012-01-29T11:48:00.000-05:00

Canada Business Ontario (CBO), in partnership with the WindsorEssex Small Business Enterprise Centre and the Essex Community Futures Development Corporation, will be hosting a “Business, Government Services and You” event in Windsor. This free event will provide an opportunity for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to learn about government programs and services that provide support for entrepreneurs.

Date: Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location: Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Ave, Windsor, ON

Cost: Free. Advanced registration is preferred

The “Business, Government Services and You” event provides a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs to speak with representatives from all levels of government face to face, ask questions, and network with other entrepreneurs in the business community. Entrepreneurs can also take advantage of free seminars that will cover a variety of small business topics.

Come and meet staff from the following organizations:

Business Development Bank of Canada	National Research Council
Canada Border Services Agency	New Canadians’ Centre of Excellence
Canada Business Ontario	Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
Canada Ontario Export Forum	Public Works and Government Services Canada
Canada Revenue Agency	Service Canada
Connect Canada	WEtech Alliance
Downtown Windsor Accelerator	WindsorEssex Small Business Enterprise Centre
Essex Community Futures Development Corporation	Workforce WindsorEssex
Ministry of Finance	YMCA of Windsor and Essex County
Ministry of Government Services

To register for this free event, please visit www.cbo-eco.ca or call 1-877-553-5507.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Feb. 1st Workshop: Life After Business

2012-01-26T11:43:00.000-05:00

So, You Thought It Was Hard

to Succeed in Business …

... Now Try Getting Out!!

Jeff Ostrow B.Acc, CA (Hyatt Lassaline LLP), Bill Sivell B.Comm., Business Broker (VR Windsor Inc.) and John Clark, LL.B. (Clarks, Barristers & Solicitors) will take you through a complimentary, fast-paced workshop that will start you thinking about how to get to the next stage of your life - your life after business - with the fruits of your success intact !

You will learn:

1. Why most business owners plan too late - and why they shouldn't wait
2. About your options for exiting your business
3. How to plan your exit Step-by-Step
4. Who you need to help you
5. About some tools we’ll give you to get you started

Presented by: HYATT LASSALINE LLP CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS, VR WINDSOR INC AND CLARKS BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS.

February 1, 2012 Registration & continental breakfast 8:15-9:00, Presentation 9:00-12:00

Richelieu Room, Place Concorde 7515 Forest Glade Drive Windsor, ON N8T 3P5

RSVP to: kwilkins@clarkslaw.com or phone: 519-254-4990

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Devonshire Mall Celebrates Literacy Day: Jan. 27!

2012-01-23T22:05:00.000-05:00

We Know You Love to Curl up with a Good Book
Devonshire Mall Celebrates Literacy Day

Research shows that children have a better chance of becoming fully literate adults if reading is encouraged in the home and this year, Literacy Day will focus especially on young readers in a themed event at Devonshire Mall on Friday, January 27^th 2012 at Centre Court.

“Passport to Learning”, this year’s theme, will be hosted by the Windsor-Essex County District School Board, the Windsor-Essex County Catholic School Board, St. Mary’s Family Centre, and the Windsor Public Library as well as volunteers from St. Clair College’s ECE Program.

There will be activities throughout the day including guest readers (in different languages!), give-a-ways, and door prizes. There will also be a raffle with five $10 gift cards.

Reading to children more than once a day has a substantial positive impact on their future academic skills. In addition, research indicates children with early exposure to books are better at performing mathematical tasks. Local Windsorites will not want to miss this fun and educational event.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Award Winning Mentor Speaks On January 24, 2012!

2012-01-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

Award winning Toast Master International motivational speaker, mentor and coach, Lynn Fitzsimmons to speak on STEPPING OUT FOR SUCCESS!

The Women’s Economic Forum invites the public to attend on January 24, 2012.

The Women’s Economic Forum of Windsor invites the general public to attend their monthly dinner meeting on January 24, 2012 to hear guest speaker Lynn Fitzsimmons will speak on Stepping out for Success. The event will be held at the Other Place Catering and Reception Centre located at 1395 Walker Road, Windsor Ontario.

Lynn Fitzsimmons was born blind and because she was considered handicapped, struggled for most of her life to be accepted by society as normal.

Today she is an award winning motivational speaker, mentor and coach and has a long-standing relationship and involvement with the local Toastmasters chapters, as well as with Toastmasters International. Lynn currently holds the title of Toastmasters Area 41 Governor, District.

The cost is $25 for WEF members, $35 for guests. Registration and networking begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m., and the speaker at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets can be obtained by calling the WEF Hotline at (519) 992-5993 or by emailing administrator@womenseconomicforum.com. For more information visit womenseconomicforum.com

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Jan 20 & 21 Head To Maroon Bros Pub

2012-01-20T11:46:00.000-05:00

Premier Network Event for Focus on Canada South

The first Focus on Canada South (FOCS) network event will be the weekend of January 20, 21st., 9:30 pm to 1:30 am at Maroon Bros Pub 39 Chatham St E, Windsor, featuring December's Artist of the Month, Rick Rock and Friends.

Everyone welcome, please come out and show your support. Check out their page @ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Focus-on-Canada-South/213137195425389

Performing artists will include Rick Rock, Jael Musicman, Denise Theriault, Chris Gignac, Keith Stiner, Al Metivier and many Special Guest appearances.

“For over 40 years I have been involved in promoting the entertainment industry in the Windsor/Essex county area," says Joe Quinlan FOCS Founder. Since the seventies, I have always been impressed with the amazing amount of talent that the Windsor area has produced. Hands down, this area has more talent per capita than any market in Canada, perhaps world-wide. We need to create global awareness of this enormous pool of talent. For this reason I have launched Focus on Canada South.”

The FOCS Mandate is to create a looking glass portal that will focus the eyes of the entertainment world on Canada South. To bring international attention to the creative talent in the Windsor/Essex County area. To promote solidarity among area writers, entertainers, directors, producers and promoters and to work together, toward this common goal. To petition Canadian and International celebrities to lend their voice, name recognition and resources to assist us in our goals. United, we will attack this goal with intensity and passion.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Battle of the Brains 2012

2012-01-12T14:03:00.000-05:00

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

WEDDING ODYSSEY JANUARY 7 & 8, 2012

2012-01-03T11:35:00.001-05:00

by Deborah Jones
Publisher
Biz X Magazine

Did you get engaged over the holidays or are you a member of a bridal party for this year's wedding season?

If so, grab your man or perhaps all your bridesmaids and come on out to the “The Wedding Odyssey” – Bridal & Event Expo at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Road Jan.7&8.

Admission: $8. Hours: Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with two fashion shows daily and there is a chance to win great prizes!

Don't forget to stop by the Biz X booth right near the entrance for your complimentary copy of our January 2012 issue!

Visit http://www.weddingodyssey.ca/ or call 978-9477 to learn more.

Read Biz X Magazine Here

City of Windsor Hours For The Holidays Dec 2011

2011-12-20T12:10:00.000-05:00

City of Windsor Holiday Hours

City of Windsor offices will be closed on Monday, December 26 and Tuesday, December 27 in recognition of the Christmas and Boxing Day holidays, and on Monday, January 2 for New Years Day. The next City Council meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, January 9 in Council Chambers at City Hall, 350 City Hall Square West.

311 Call Centre: The 311 Call Centre will have reduced hours from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, December 23 and Friday, December 31. The Call Centre will be closed on on Monday, December 26 and Tuesday, December 27 for the Christmas and Boxing Day holidays. The 311 Call Centre will also be closed on Monday, January 2, 2011. Normal hours (7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.) apply to all other weekdays during the holiday season.

211 WINDSOR-ESSEX: The 211 Call Centre will remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout the holiday period.

GARBAGE & RECYCLING COLLECTION SERVICE:
(This applies to both Christmas and New Year’s weeks)

Residential garbage and bi-weekly recycling collection will be delayed one day. Please refer to your 2011-12 Collection calendar, call 311 for more information, or visit www.citywindsor.ca.

Weekly Recycling: there will be no change to your collection.

Night Commercial collection will be delayed one day.

Front-end Loader garbage collection: there is no change in your bin collection.

A Christmas tree and yard waste collection will be provided during the weeks of January 8 and January 15, 2012 (please refer to your collection calendar). Keep your 2011 collection calendar until the end of March. Canada Post will deliver your 2012 collection calendar during the third week of March.

PUBLIC DROP-OFF & HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL WASTE DEPOTS are located at the northeast corner of Central Avenue and E. C. Row. These facilities will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day as well as January 2, 2012. Both depots will be open on New Year’s Eve as well as Tuesday December 27, 2011. Normal winter operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. for the disposal of garbage, red and blue box recyclables, cardboard, appliances, renovation materials, tires and yard waste. The Household Chemical Waste Depot accepts paints, stains, propane tanks, motor oils, batteries, pesticides, fluorescent tube bulbs, mercury thermometers and any other household chemical waste.

PARKS AND RECREATION: Community centres, pools, arenas, outdoor ice rinks, Ojibway Nature Centre, Willistead Manor, and Mackenzie Hall continue with regularly scheduled programs and rentals. Visit www.reconnectwindsor.ca for the “Holiday Highlights” newsletter outlining all scheduled programs, skating, swimming, and customer care centre holiday hours.

WINDSOR PUBLIC LIBRARY: Please note that all branches of Windsor Public Library will open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., December 19 to 22 and December 27 to 29. All branches will be closed December 23 to 26 and December 30 to January 2. Normal hours will resume January 3. The Remington Park branch will open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday during the Open Hours already listed.

WINDSOR’S COMMUNITY MUSEUM will be closed December 24 to 28. The museum will be open regular hours on December 29 and 30 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and closed December 31 to January 2. Regular hours resume on January 3. Please note that the museum is always closed on Sundays and Mondays.

TRANSIT WINDSOR: Throughout the Holiday season, Transit Windsor reminds patrons to check the schedule or view our website for detailed schedule information. Adjustments occur on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. Bus schedules and route maps may be found on the City of Windsor website at www.citywindsor.ca/transitwindsor. You may also pick up a printed copy of this information at any Windsor area Shoppers Drug Mart, Windsor Public Library branches, community centres, arenas, Transit Centre, or any Transit Windsor bus. Fare media will be sold at Transit Windsor’s sales offices as follows, during the 2011 Holiday Season: Windsor International Transit Terminal (includes Greyhound ticket sales at this location) 300 Chatham Street West--open daily (except Christmas Day) from 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Christmas day from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Transit Centre, 3700 North Service Road will be closed on December 26 (regular hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays).

For more information, call 311 or visit www.citywindsor.ca

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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HELP CARSTAR ASSIST THE NEEDY THIS CHRISTMAS

2011-12-16T11:14:00.000-05:00

It’s that time of year again! CARSTAR will be donating a vehicle to a lucky family again this year on Thursday December 22; this will be the second year for this special event. This year they will not being having a celebration at their location but delivering the vehicle 2006 Chrysler Pacifica fully loaded with leather and sunroof to the lucky family, their goal is to fill the vehicle with food and other goodies that a family may require ...AND THEY NEED YOUR HELP!
The following items are needed:

-Food

-Gift cards (Gas, Canadian tire, etc)

-Cash (they will go out and buy things at Superstore for the family)

-Clothing

-Board Games

-Whatever is in your HEART to give !

Please note that they have no information on this lucky family.

If you or your company can help in any way it would be greatly appreciated and your donation can be dropped off at one of our locations Windsor or LaSalle or give owner Dennis Carlini a call at 519-969-3391

and he can pick it up!

Thanks and happy holidays to all!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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ODETTE MBAS CELEBRATE COMMUNITY LEADERS DEC. 16, 2011

2011-12-10T10:12:00.000-05:00

The MBA class of 2012 at the Odette School Business will celebrate local leadership when they launch the inaugural "Conversations with Community Champions event" on Friday, December 16, 2011 at the Odette School of Business, University of Windsor from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The event marks the culmination of a semester’s work on developing personal leadership strengths and learning about leadership from the very best in our community. Each MBA team was partnered with two local leaders. Through extensive background research and personal interviews with the leaders, the MBA students enriched their knowledge of the skills, abilities and attitudes necessary to become a passionate leader who makes a difference in the lives of those around them and in their community. The event is an opportunity to celebrate the talents, commitment and the many contributions of Windsor’s own Community Champions. The featured leaders will be presented by teams in rooms 321 and 210, beginning at 10:30 A.M. in the Odette School of Business building.

These Champions are very worthy of celebration. Each has forged their own leadership path and made Windsor and Essex County a stronger and more vibrant community. They inspire leadership in others. They are all leaders in giving back to the community.

The MBA class of 2012 will “pay it forward” over the next year through mentoring and helping to develop the leadership potential of a talented group of Forster Secondary School students in co-operation with their teacher, Mr. Greg Adler. These students and their teacher will also be present at this event. They are our next generation of our community champions!

This year, the featured Community Champions are:

Ari Freed (Freed’s of Windsor); Rose Anguiano Hurst (WEST of Windsor); Ted Farron (Farron’s Gourmet Meats); Adam Vasey (Pathways to Potential); Karen Behune Plunkett (WE Tech); Carol Derbyshire (Hospice of Windsor); Jennifer Jones (MediaStreet Productions); John Elliot (Sandwich Teen Action Group); Joe Ouellette (Acrolab); Elaine Whitmore (John McGivney Centre); Chandra Dass (Downtown Mission); and Jim Marsh (WFT Investments, and Odette SIFE Faculty Advisor).

This event begins in room 210 Odette at 10 a.m. All media are welcome. Presentations will begin at 10:30 in rooms 210 and 321 following introductory remarks; cameras can be set up in rooms 210 and 321 at 9:45 A.M. The community leaders and students will be available for interviews from 9:45 to 10 and at 12 noon.

CONTACT: Benjamin Iannetta, VP Marketing, Odette MBA Society,

mobile: (519) 817-2247, twitter: @biannetta

Professor Dr. Martha Reavley – reavley@uwindsor.ca

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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FREE LEGAL ADVICE FOR SMALL BUSINESS UNTIL DEC. 11!

2011-12-06T15:55:00.000-05:00

Christmas Has Arrived Early for Ontario Small and Mid-Sized Businesses!

All Week Long, Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Get the Valuable Gift of Free Legal Advice

It won’t fit into a stocking or under a tree, but Ontario’s small and mid-sized businesses are still getting a great early Christmas gift this year from DAS Canada. All week, DAS is giving the gift of free legal advice. From now until Sunday, Ontario small and mid-sized business owners will be able to get a taste of DAS Canada’s Legal Expense Insurance solution by calling the company’s legal hotline and receiving free qualified legal advice. Callers will be connected with a lawyer to answer their business-related legal questions, free of charge.

Questions to the Legal hotline can be about anything from employment disputes to unpaid receivables to health and safety closures or any other potential legal headaches that could arise. With the average cost of a lawyer in Ontario running at over $355 per hour, most Ontario businesses will greatly benefit from a means of having affordable access to the legal system.

Unforeseen challenges can arise at any time, and if you don’t know your rights and responsibilities, you could find yourself quickly entangled in a legal nightmare,” said Barbara Haynes, CEO of DAS Canada. “For smaller companies for whom retaining a lawyer is out of reach, our policies can make the difference between business success and going under.”

To assist Ontario small and mid-sized businesses with their legal matters, DAS Canada has opened up its legal support hotline to business owners throughout the province for a full week, beginning 12:01 am on December 5, 2011 and ending at 11:59 pm on December 11, 2011. Business owners can call 1-877-88-ADVICE (1-877-882-3842) and use the promo code ONTFREE during that period to have access to qualified advice on their legal issues.

The company is also hosting a “business legal nightmares” contest to hear from small and mid-sized business owners about legal challenges they’ve had to face. Participants can enter for a chance to win $1,000 Staples gift card by visiting www.das.ca/ontariostories and telling their stories.

DASbusiness is designed to protect businesses against thecost of legal disputes, allowing them to focus on their core business whileknowing that their legal fees and expenses are covered if and when the needarises. The company’s call-center provides policyholders with direct access to legal experts to assist them in determining the best course of action in a given situation.

About DAS Canada

DAS Legal Protection Insurance Company Limited (DAS Canada) is a subsidiary of DAS Group, a global leader in the ten billion dollar legal expense insurance market. DAS Group is based in Germany and is a subsidiary of ERGO, Munich Re’s primary insurer in Europe and Asia. DAS Canada is committed to bringing a fresh, modern approach to the marketplace, combining a forward-thinking attitude with almost a century of expertise. A full-service specialist in legal expense insurance, DAS Canada offers access to affordable justice forindividuals, groups and small and mid-sized businesses. Policies are currently available in all Canadian Provinces and Territories (license pending in Quebec). For more information, please visit www.das.ca.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Have Your Pet Photographed With Santa In December

2011-12-02T10:36:00.000-05:00

Calling all pet lovers! Pet Photos with Santa are here and elves are ready to help capture your pet in a cute shot with the Jolly Old Guy (or Girl!).

Join Humane Society Volunteers between 11am and 4pm on Saturday, December 3, 10 and 17 or Sunday, December 4, 11 and 18 at either of the PetSmart stores to purchase your colour photo set in an adorable Christmas-themed frame.

Cost is only $10.95 per photo ($9.95 with a Pet Perks Card) with $5.00 from each shot being donated to the Humane Society. For further details phone 519.966.5751, ext. 23.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Love Potatoes? Dec 1st Is Your Day!

2011-11-27T22:09:00.001-05:00

New Annual Potato Fest Event Supports Cancer Patients and “Kids Beating Cancer” Program

Whether they’re mashed, scalloped or french fried, potatoes have always been a staple in Canadian diets and now the ever popular potato is being integrated as the signature element of a new, innovative fund raiser to support cancer patients in our region. In Honour of the Ones We Love is mounting this unique Potato Fest event on Thursday, December 1st (11:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm) at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts (201 Riverside Dr. W.).

This all-you-can-eat spud’tacular costs only $5 per person and features a wide array of delicious potato dishes including potato martinis, baked potato bar, fresh cut fries, salad bar with cold potato salad with Sour Cream and Chives, Nicose with Tuna French Beans and Olives and warm potato salad with Dijon Vinaigrette.

Among the featured attractions at this event will be a special appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, Tommy and Tina Tater. Proceeds from this family event benefit cancer patient care in Windsor & Essex County and In Honour’s “Kids Beating Cancer” Program (Honourable Little Ninjas).

Sponsors include the St. Clair College Alumni Association, St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Windsor Star, AM800, Pepsi, Motor City Community Credit Union, and Windsor Disposal Service. For ticket information contact 519.966.2960 or Email info@inhonour.ca.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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See The Trews Nov. 26 & Some Great Hockey!

2011-11-22T19:04:00.002-05:00

CWHL& Breast Ride Ever Get Ready To Stick It To Cancer!

The Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL) and Breast Ride Ever (www.thebreastrideever.com) are teaming up in November for a huge fundraiser in the Windsor area called “Stick It To Cancer.”

When the Montreal Stars play a two-game series against the Toronto Furies in a rematch of the Clarkson Cup Final at the Windsor Arena (572 McDougall St. Windsor) on November 26 (6 p.m.) and November 27 (12:30 p.m.) hockey fans have a chance to not only see some of the top female players in the world compete, but meet and skate with them on the ice!

After the Sunday game fans who bring their helmet and skates will be invited on ice to skate with the players. Fans will also have an opportunity to get autographs.

Windsor’s own Meghan Agosta will be playing one of her first games with the Stars.

“ Agosta has an enormous amount of offensive talent – and she’ll surely make her mark in these games, and all season long for us,” Stars Captain Lisa-Marie Breton-Lebreux says. “We are very excited to play in this important fundraiser event!”

Individual game tickets for adults (18 and older) are $15; seniors (65 and older) and children are $10. Children three and under get in free. Tickets for both games are available in a package – adults for $25 and $15 for seniors and children.

Tickets are general admission and available online at www.ticketweb.ca and at Dr. Disc, 471 Ouellette Avenue; Jam Space, 2680 Ouellette Avenue across from Tepperman’s); Healthy Creations Bakery, 333 Dougall Square and at the Windsor and Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation, 2220 Kildare Road.

The proceeds from “Stick It To Cancer” will benefit the Windsor & Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation (the fundraising arm of the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre) for the purchase of a Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) for Cancer diagnostics and for their Seeds4Hope Cancer Research Program), and The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County for community-based services.

To help raise additional funds, an after party event has been organized for after the game on November 26 at The Capitol Theatre, downtown Windsor. Tickets are $22 if purchased in advance and $25 the day of the show for fans over 18. People will get to hang out with all the players and see a great line-up of local bands.

“Local talents include Georgia Rose (sister of Jeff Burrows) Glen MacNeil and Friends, Jackie Robitaille, Pat Robitaille, Sarah Smith (The Joys) and featuring the all-Canadian band THE TREWS!” The Breast Ride Ever Co-Founder Nikki Krieger-Campeau says.

Biz X and In Play magazines will be there and we hope you are too!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

NOV 18th SUPER HERO AFTER PARTY FOR SPARKY'S TOY DRIVE

2011-11-12T15:31:00.000-05:00

Where Will You Be Friday Nov. 18th?

That’s an easy answer! The Biz X Awards “Super Hero” After Party!

The event, held at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, is open to the public (you must be over 19 years of age). It begins at 10:30 p.m. right after the 14th annual Biz X awards invite only gala (dinner and awards ceremony) has taken place. 2011 winners can share their glory with friends, family and the business community until 2 a.m.

If you want to promote your company you need to be here! You can meet other business owners and 2011 award winners too. All current Biz X nominees are invited as well to share in the festivities and celebrate their nomination. Please note that you do not have to be a Biz X Award winner, nominee or past winner to attend this After Party – everyone is welcome.

This year we have chosen a “Super Hero” theme because we believe that our winners/nominees (and all Windsor Essex business owners) are real life super heroes as they have kept their businesses going in this tough economy, without the use of any magical powers!

We also know that our local health care/emergency workers, police and firefighters are heroes each and everyday. Therefore, we have chosen again Sparky’s Toy Drive (run by Windsor Fire & Rescue) as our charity recipient.

Admission to attend the After Party is just one new, unwrapped toy. Gift certificates, children’s hats and gloves and cash donations to the fireman’s boot are also needed.

Last year at our “Fire & Ice” After Glow fundraiser, we collected $3,000 in toys and $500 in cash donations. For 2011 we want to double this amount!

To help get as many people out as possible we have booked the band, Drop Dead Famous (www.dropdeadfamous.ca ) which is guaranteed to get our guests in a party mood with their unique blend of pop, rock and dance songs.

Drop Dead Famous also has a “Super Hero” connection as Lead Vocalist Rob Higgins and Bassist Scott Holmes are both local Firefighters. They are joined by Keyboardist Chris Blais (U of W Visual Arts Digital Technician); Guitarist Dave Sinewitz (Pharmacist) and Drummer Chris Holmes (Mechanical Engineer).

The group is currently busy writing original songs and looking to have a demo completed in the new year. But they are ready to rock the After Party this November.

“I have attended the event in the past and it was an awesome time,” says Rob Higgins. “We are really looking forward to playing this year for a great bunch of people.”

Biz X is ready for you boys –as are our major gala suppliers; Joe D’Angela and his team at St. Clair, Designs By Diane, Diversity Productions, TVCogeco and The Trophy Boys.

And in between sets, DJ RAMI, one of White Star Lounge's top dj's is going to be spinning some tunes and giving away door prizes!

Visit www.bizxmagazine.com for more details on our awards and see you on the 18th with a toy in hand!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

City Of Windsor Hours On Remembrance Day

2011-11-07T10:06:00.000-05:00

City of Windsor offices will be closed on Friday, November 11, 2011 for the Remembrance Day Holiday. A Remembrance Day service will be held at the Cenotaph in City Hall Square at 11 am. All are welcome.

311 Call Centre: The 311 Call Centre will be closed on Friday, November 11 for the Remembrance Day Holiday and will re-open Monday, November14 at 7 am.

211 SOUTH WEST ONTARIO will be open 24 hours throughout the holiday to serve the residents of Windsor and Essex County.

GARBAGE, RECYCLING & YARD WASTE COLLECTIONS will continue normal hours and operations. Your collection day remains the same. Please refer to your 2011 Collection Schedule. Call 311 for more information or visit http://www.citywindsor.ca/.

PUBLIC DROP-OFF & HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL WASTE DEPOTS will be open on Friday, November 11 from 8 am to 4:45 pm. The Depots are located at the northeast corner of Central Avenue and E.C. Row and are available for the self-disposal of yard waste, garbage, renovation material, furniture, recyclables, appliances, tires, shingles and household chemical waste. Some disposal fees may apply. For residential customers only: unlimited trips and quantities of leaves, tree trimmings and garden waste can be disposed of at the Public Drop-off for free!

PARKS AND RECREATION: Community and customer care centres, arenas and indoor pools will be open for regular programming and rentals on Friday, November 11.

WINDSOR PUBLIC LIBRARY: All locations of the Windsor Public Library will be closed on Friday, November 11. Regular hours resume on Saturday, November 12.

WINDSOR’S COMMUNITY MUSEUM will be open on Friday, November 11.

TRANSIT WINDSOR: City buses will run on the weekday schedule on Friday. The Tunnel Bus will operate on a weekday schedule. Schedules and route maps are available online at www.citywindsor.ca/transitwindsor. This information is also available at any Windsor area Shoppers Drug Mart, Windsor Public Library branches, community centres, arenas, Windsor International Transit Terminal, or any Transit Windsor bus. Customer Service office at 300 Chatham Street West is open regular hours on Friday from 7 am until 9 pm. Additionally, Customer Service at 3700 North Service Road East is open regular hours on Friday from 9 am until 4 pm.

****For more information, call 311 or visit www.citywindsor.ca.

Financial Literacy Week Oct 30 to Nov. 5, 2011

2011-10-20T18:03:00.000-04:00

Financial Literacy Week gets Canadians talking about money and math to help increase knowledge and confidence when working with personal financial issues!

Canadians need to get talking about money and through local community events, use of online resources and tip sharing pages, and a national online Financial Literacy Week forum, everyone will be able to increase knowledge confidence with their money management skills.

Being celebrated nationally from October 30 – November 5, 2011, Financial Literacy Week is ABC Life Literacy Canada and Founding Sponsor TD Bank Group’s rallying cry for the nation to engage together through activity, dialogue and action ultimately building increased confidence with day-to-day tasks involving money and numbers.

Finances and math should not be a taboo subject. FinancialLiteracyWeek.ca brings Canadians into the financial literacy discussion through engaging content, video posts and useful resources. Be inspired as Canadians rally together and see how one small change adds up!

To support Canadians on their financial learning journey, several key resources have been made available for free online at FinancialLiteracyWeek.ca.

They include:

· Video posts by financial expert Gail Vaz-Oxlade covering topics such as three steps people can take to feel more confident about their money management, saving for kids’ future and opening up and talking about money.

· Three financial literacy week handbooks that can be used by an individual or group to learn about budgeting, borrowing and RESPs.

· An event toolkit perfect to help individuals plan a financial literacy week event of any size.

· Tip sheets and activity pages are also available at www.SmallChangeAddsUp.ca.

The challenge is on to all Canadians to join ABC Life Literacy Canada during this week. Help each other by submitting a financial tip to the website or make a personal promise of a small action you can do that will help increase your skills, knowledge and confidence.

Get in on the conversation and increase your financial literacy skills and confidence at http://www.financialliteracyweek.ca/.

About ABC Life Literacy Canada: ABC Life Literacy Canada is a non-profit organization that inspires Canadians to increase their literacy skills. ABC Life Literacy Canada envisions a Canada where everyone has the skills they need to live a fully engaged life. For the latest news and information on adult literacy please visit www.abclifeliteracy.ca, or stay connected with them through Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Celebrate Small Business Week Oct 16 to 22!

2011-10-14T11:12:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to all the local small business owners by staying in business and surviving this tough economy! Toast to your success this week to celebrate small businesses in Windsor Essex!

Please read my guest article in the Tecumseh Tribune as well...click here to see!

http://www.myvirtualpaper.com/doc/Tecumseh-Tribune/tribune_20111013/2011101301/#9

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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oct. 3rd to 9th is National "in motion" week!

2011-09-26T11:06:00.000-04:00

From October 3rd to the 9th, 2011, Southwestern (SWO) Ontario in motion is celebrating National “in motion” week! National in motion Week is also celebrated in communities across Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and New Brunswick and it is the 4th year of promoting in motion in Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton. SWOntario in motion is the health promotion strategy that tries to get people moving in Windsor and Essex County. Join in motion partners at community events to celebrate and promote physical activity!

In motion Awards Ceremony

On Monday, October 3rd, the 2011 SWOntario in motion Awards Ceremony will be part of the Active Communities Summit hosted at the Canadian Transportation Museum. The award recipients will be announced during this special event at 10 am.

12 o’clock Walk around Windsor-Essex

On Wednesday, October 5, 2011 in motion partners are hosting a 12’oclock walk around Windsor-Essex at noon. Registered facilities can be found at http://www.swontarioinmotion.ca/InMotionWeekWalk. Participating partners such as: the City of Windsor, Town of Essex, Town of Lakeshore, Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, Municipality of Leamington, City Centre Health Care, and All Saints’ Church will host walks at many of their locations around Windsor-Essex County. Participate in this walk to show your support for more active communities in Windsor-Essex. Walkers will receive an in motion participant prize, and enter into a grand prize draw in Windsor-Essex County for a Wii system. This event will engage community partners and residents to show their support for a healthier, more active Windsor-Essex County.

About Southwestern Ontario in motion:

Launched in 2008, Southwestern Ontario in motion combines local and regional resources and builds on partnerships to promote physical activity to everyone across Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton. Partners, including municipalities, the health units, community organizations and the University of Windsor are involved and host events and programs to encourage physical activity and healthy living. The next events will be the Souper Skate in January 2012 and Family in motion Day on February 20, 2012. Visit www.swontarioinmotion.ca to find out more about where to be active your community.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Kidney Foundation Gets $20,000 In 10th Anniversary Walk

2011-09-19T16:19:00.002-04:00

Foundation strides to a $20,000 tune through its 10th Anniversary Walk

Potential for up to 24 lives saved through online consent to organ donation at beadonor.ca

The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Windsor & District Chapter celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Gift the Gift of Life Walk this past Sunday at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

Approximately 150 participants celebrated the “gift of life” for those who have successfully received a transplant while encouraging others to say “yes” to organ donation online at beadonor.ca while collectively raising $20,000 for the Foundation. Funds secured will benefit patient services and programs within our community as well as others while stimulating innovative research.

“We are very fortunate to have a wonderful group of supporters who are walking for loved ones and friends through this event,” said Mike Brennan, fund development and chapter manager for the Windsor & District Chapter. “This event encompasses all aspects of the Foundation’s vision and mission while advocating for organ donation.”

The potential for up to 24 lives could be saved through online consent where 3 individuals said “yes” to organ donation and registered at beadonor.ca One person has the ability to save up to 8 lives and with approximately 1,105 individuals on the waiting list in Ontario, the need for awareness and registration continues to grow.

According to Brennan, “We implemented a unified education program and threaded that carefully throughout our Faces of Kidney Disease series, which profiled members within our community who received a transplant and are living life to the fullest to generate awareness while demonstrating that organ donation works. People like Cam Gardiner, our honourary chair, who received his kidney transplant and is now giving back to the community and the Foundation by advocating for early intervention and organ donation.”

“This event creates awareness for organ donation within our community and provides the opportunity for transplant recipients to say thanks and give back in their own special way,” said Mary Diemer, chair of the event committee belonging to the Give the Gift of Life Walk. For Mary, this event was a special one as it also commemorated the 10th anniversary of her transplant.

Walks continue to take place throughout communities across the province. Register or donate online at kidney.ca/ontariowalk.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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BLOOD DONORS NEEDED SEPT. 20, 2011

2011-09-16T10:23:00.000-04:00

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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September 13th Biz MiXer Menu & More

2011-09-06T10:52:00.003-04:00

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine

Here’s a quick glance at TONGHT'S Biz MiXer at the WFCU Centre, we have the entire Crown Royal Lounge all to ourselves.

We have also extended the Biz MiXer by one hour for this event due to the dressing room and suite tours so it's from 6-9pm.

Our venue host is presenting a great menu which includes…

A PASTA STATION: The Chef will be preparing a combination of pasta dishes right before your eyes. Agnolotti or Farfalle pasta served with your choice of Spicy Tomato Basil or Alfredo Sauce with Crusty Italian Rolls with Butter

A SLIDER STATION: A combination of beef and frankfurter sliders with gourmet sides.

A CARVING STATION: The Chef will be preparing Roasted beef and slicing it fresh and draping it over a beautiful artisan bun with a touch of demi glace.

We have also arranged for our Biz MiXers to tour the Windsor Spitfires dressing room and a luxury suite so bring your cameras.

As always we have lots of great mixer games and prizes to give away including our GRAND PRIZE which is a luxury suite for you and your company to entertain at an upcoming Windsor Spitfires game in style.

So, if you've been thinking about checking out our Biz Mixer this is your chance. We hope to see some new faces as well as seasoned pros. Mix and mingle with other business owners and managers, keep up to date on business news and broker that next big deal!

The Biz MiXer is open to all business owners and managers and you're welcome to bring a fellow biz pro too.

There's plenty of parking and you should enter through Gate 1.

Please RSVP to mixer@bizxmagazine.com

Hope to see all our regular Biz Pros and newbies too!

SPIKE ONE FOR HAITI ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2011

2011-09-01T22:43:00.000-04:00

CALLING ALL CARING HEARTS!

The fundraising team at Hearts Together for Haiti are having a busy summer having just completed their annual Golf Classic at Sutton Creek which was very successful and soon the ‘Spike One For Haiti’ Volleyball Tournament happens at the Dominion House Tavern.

These fun events ensure that solid housing gets built for the orphan girls that the charity has taken under their wing. Keith and Marcie Spratt, Steve McDougall and other board members are traveling to Haiti as I write this piece to make sure all is going as planned.

This charity is definitely one that is worthy of our support because the money raised for the poor is directly brought to Haiti by volunteer members (who pay their own way). It’s about the only way to avoid corrupt interference. Ten orphan girls will soon have a solid, safe home to live in, a school to attend, a den mom and dad to watch over them and a garden to grow nourishing food to eat. Pure heaven on earth! And you can help make this happen simply by coming out to play volleyball with them on September 17th. It’ll be a fun day!

Hope to see you out on the courts! There will be CASH PRIZES for the top three teams.

Where? Dominion House Tavern

Cost? $120 per team (3 guys, 3 gals)

When? September 17th, 2011

Time? Noon registration; 12:45 Play Begins!

Contact? Mariette Jones : marilou_327@yahoo.ca for more info and entry forms

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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PICK THE FAST SIGNS LOCAL BUSINESS WINNER BY SEPT.2

2011-08-26T12:53:00.001-04:00

Nineteen Windsor/Essex Businesses Hope to Win a FASTSIGNS® MetamorphoSIGN Makeover

FASTSIGNS® of Windsor would like to remind local businesses and organizations, as well as the Windsor/Essex community, that voting for the FASTSIGNS MetamorphoSIGN Makeover Contest will begin on Monday, Aug. 22 and will end on Friday, Sept. 2.

Those who are interested in voting for whom they feel should receive a sign and graphics makeover from FASTSIGNS can do so by visiting http://www.metamorphosign.com/.

To vote for an entry, click “Morph It” and to continue onto the next entry click “Leave It”. Each voter may select only one entry to “Morph” each day and will be entered into weekly drawings to win one of six $50 American Express gift cards each day that they vote.

“We are so excited to see the response that we have received just during the entry period of this contest,” explained Jackie Raymond, who co-owns the Windsor FASTSIGNS with her friend, Donna Bilodeau. “We especially hope that the enthusiasm continues during the voting period because out of the more than 550 businesses that entered this contest, 23 of them are from right here in the Windsor/Essex area.”

The businesses from the Windsor/Essex area that have entered the MetamorphoSIGN Contest are as follows: Decks and Fences by Ryan; Jacobs Gowns, Footwear, & Accessories Ltd.; Happy Days Diner; Latelier Du Chocolat; University of Windsor St. Denis Centre; Ed Viselli - 581 Cataraqui Street; Windsor Croatian Centre; Complete Chiropractic; Double Play Café; Wheelers Printing & Copying; WFCU Centre; Advance Beauty Supplies; Divine Designs Flowers; Canadian Mental Health Association; Towne & Country Motel; LaSalle Premier Auto Spa; Riverside Minor Baseball Association; Windsor/Essex; Teutonia Club of Windsor and Blab! Media.

“We’re eager for the community to get involved by showing their support for local businesses and organizations in need of a transformation—they really can make a difference and help someone they know win a sign and graphics makeover,” said Bilodeau.

At the end of the MetamorphoSIGN contest, two $10,000 sign and graphics makeovers will be awarded; one winner will be voted on by the social media world online and the other winner will be determined by FASTSIGNS. The two makeover winners will be announced on September 23. To learn more about the contest or to vote, visit www.metamorphosign.com.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

Don't Worry If You Hear Explosion August 23 On The Detroit River!

2011-08-22T12:50:00.000-04:00

THE CITY OF DETROIT AND U.S. COAST GUARD TO HOLD

INTERNATIONAL SECURITY EXERCISE ALONG DETROIT RIVER AUGUST 23-24

The City of Detroit and the U.S. Coast Guard will work with more than 60 U.S. and Canadian agencies to stage an exercise on August 23-24 involving an explosion on the Detroit Princess boat, evacuation of passengers and an oil spill on the Detroit River.

The full-scale exercise involves U.S. and Canadian agencies at the federal, state, and local levels and will test and measure the Area Maritime Security Plan, contingency plans of participating agencies, and public information outreach. Detroit River Readiness 2011 will take place along the Detroit River Corridor from Trenton to Detroit and Windsor.

The exercise begins around 9 a.m. on Tuesday, August 23, with an actual, controlled explosion and smoke coming from the Detroit Princess boat. Passengers will be evacuated from the boat and transported to an emergency medical facility located at Milliken State Park. The exercise will continue on August 24 as crews respond to an oil spill on the Detroit River.

We wanted to inform area residents and Biz X/IN PLAY readers about the exercise to minimize concerns about the explosion and subsequent smoke. Individuals with questions or concerns are encouraged to call (313) 567-3007.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

Grants For Creative Projects Needed By Aug. 26, 2011!

2011-08-08T18:27:00.000-04:00

The WindsorEssex Community Foundation Announces Grants For Innovative Community Projects!

Do you have an idea that would make a difference in the lives of people in Windsor and Essex County? The WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF) is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications for its 2011 Community Impact Grants.

The Foundation’s Community Impact Grants provide organizations with $2,000 to $10,000 to implement innovative projects that make Windsor and Essex County a better place to live, work, play, learn and grow. They are interested in initiatives that will make a lasting difference, increase community capacity, involve partnerships, show creativity and provide a model for others.

“Organizations often have great ideas, but lack the financial resources to bring them to life,” says WECF’s Grants Committee Chair, Jay Strosberg. “These grants help them develop new and creative projects that can have a positive impact upon our communities for years to come.”

The Community Foundation knows that community vitality is built through a variety of elements, so we fund a wide range of initiatives. Past projects we have funded include; a mental health guide for new-comers to Canada, the purchase of skates and helmets for All Saints’ Skate Program, a video commemorating our Veterans, community recreations spaces, tree plantings, and community gardens.

For further information, visit www.wecf.ca.

APPLY ONLINE NOW…. all applications must be received by 4:30pm on August 26th, 2011.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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MCCCU BBQ August 10 Erie Street

2011-08-03T20:21:00.000-04:00

MOTOR CITY COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION CHARITY BBQ

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2011 11AM-3PM

Once again MCCCU is having a BBQ here at its Commercial Centre at 895 Erie St. in Windsor to raise money for Scott Sefton and his family. The date is Wednesday August 10th, and the staff are asking for your support.

Scott Sefton is a local 34 year old married father with 2 young children who has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig ’s disease. They are asking everyone to join us to raise funds for much needed home renovation to make it wheel chair accessible. His disease has progressed rapidly and renovations are required for him to get around. Some proceeds will be donated into an education fund for his young children.

For all MCCCU friends who were able to make our BBQ last year and to those who donated, a warm thank-you.

Please help MCCCU help Scott. If you cannot make the BBQ and would like to donate, please call 519-944-7455 ext. 228!

Thanks so much and look forward to seeing you on the 10th of August.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

"FASTSIGNS" Gives Away Free Makeover-Enter by Aug 12

2011-08-01T11:34:00.000-04:00

"FASTSIGNS" MetamorphoSIGN Contest to Give Away Free Sign and Graphics Makeovers

Businesses can win one of two $10,000 visual communications transformations

"FASTSIGNS" of Windsor wants local businesses and organizations to have the opportunity to receive a visual communications transformation by entering the MetamorphoSIGN contest, which is giving away two free sign and graphics makeovers.

“Signs and graphics can visually communicating your messages for days, weeks or years at a time," explains Jackie Raymond, who co-owns the Windsor FASTSIGNS with her friend, Donna Bilodeau. "They not only inform, direct and sell, but signs and graphics can also extend your brand or business identity.”

What do your signs say about you? What kind of impression are they making on your behalf? What business objectives are they working to help you meet?

“As an integral part of a business and marketing plan, an organization’s visual presence should professionally and clearly represent who they are and what they do," adds Raymond. "Many businesses could benefit from a sign and graphics transformation, and that’s where we can help.”

The Windsor FASTSIGNS is no stranger to visual communications makeovers. Three years ago, when FASTSIGNS gave away several similar makeovers, two recipients were located in Windsor. The Windsor FASTSIGNS made the transformations happen and, to this day, the Wrap Shack and Impact Staffing still feature the centre’s work. During the MetamorphoSIGN contest, two $10,000 sign and graphics makeovers will be awarded; one winner will be voted on by the social media world online and the other winner will be determined by FASTSIGNS.

“During the voting period, anyone can cast a vote for their favorite business or organization and they can vote once a day,” says Raymond. “We’re excited for the community to get involved by showing their support for local businesses and organizations in need of a transformation — they can make a difference and help someone they know win a makeover.”

The makeover entry submission period is from July 18 – August 12. Businesses interested in being considered for the makeovers can visit www.metamorphosign.com to submit their entry, which is a 250-word write-up about why they should win and a photo of their business. Entries will be viewable on metamorphosign.com and open for online voting from August 22 – September 2. During the two-week voting period, all who vote will be entered into weekly drawings to win one of six $50 American Express gift cards. The two makeover winners will be announced on September 23.

To learn more about the contest, to submit your business or to vote, visit http://www.metamorphosign.com/.
Email Jackie.Raymond@fastsigns.com for more details.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

Calling All Karaoke Lovers! "Wheatley Idol" July 31, 2011 Is Here!

2011-07-19T14:56:00.000-04:00

A little town with big talent! Who would have known that there was such amazing talent in such a little town? Youth from all around Southwestern ON will hit the stage at the eighth annual "Wheatley Idol", which is taking place Sunday, July 31 at the Two Creeks Conservation Area in Wheatley. "Wheatley Idol" is a part of the annual Wheatley Fish Festival, which takes place the Civic Holiday Weekend on July 29, 30, and 31.

Organizer of the event Darla Janzen told the Biz X Magazine that the talent competition, which was started by the Wheatley Optimists, has grown since it began, and this feature attraction continues to grow.

“It has become really popular,” Janzen says. We set a record year again for 2011! Registration to compete in the event is now closed, as the 30 spots filled up in one week. We credit our website, along with the media and other mediums for helping get the word out.”

Janzen said of the contestants, who hail from the Wheatley area and as far as Windsor and Sarnia. “Kids have the know-how when it comes to being online.”

Contestants come from all around to vie for the coveted "Wheatley Idol" title. The competition also draws hundreds of spectators, who offer support and encouragement for the great talent that takes to the outdoor stage. The singing competition is broken down into four age categories (6-9, 10-12, 13-16, and 17-29) and includes “celebrity judges” who determine the 13 winners.

The celebrity judges include local recording artist, singer/songwriter Nicole Barron, 92.7 Max FM, morning host Cordell Green, and Jennifer Morin the 2010 "Wheatley Idol" Overall Winner. There are great prizes for all the winners and includes a star-studded recording package for the 2011 Overall Winner”.

Janzen is excited to announce that the four 1st place winners from this year’s contest will also be guest singers at the 2011 Comber Fair - Miss Comber Fair Pageant. With volunteers, prize sponsors and community partnerships, Janzen credits all of these for the success of the annual event.

“Everybody does their part and we have a lot of great support,” she adds. Janzen indicated a large crowd is anticipated again this year for the event. Preparations for the competition are going smooth, and the list of the contestants has been announced.“We’ve tried to put a bit of everything into it, so it’s appealing to everybody.”

Admission to the event is free and open to the public as a free concert. Rain or shine! The Two Creeks outdoor amphitheatre makes for a wonderful woodland setting, and in the event of rain, the pavilion is available. Door prizes for the audience can be won; food from the Wheatley Scouts will be for sale, and 92.7 Max FM Radio out of Leamington will be on hand during the event to give out free swag.

Bring your Lawn chairs and Idol cheers! MC Dustyn Janzen, 92.7 Max and Mix 96.7 radio host, will keep everyone entertained and well informed throughout the event. We encourage the public to come out to the event and enjoy the entertainment. You can also Stay Connected with "Wheatley Idol" on "Facebook", "Twitter", and Idol Alerts! Check out the "Wheatley Idol" website for more details, Idol highlights and news. www.wheatleyidol.com

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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WE Children's Safety Village Day Camp Giveaway $110 Value X2

2011-07-10T14:21:00.002-04:00

Biz X Magazine wants to send your

youngster to the
Week Long Day Camp

at the Children's Safety Village of

Windsor and Essex County!!!

Two Passes - $110 Each

Good for July 18 -22 or August 8-12

Simply email our contest page here "CONTEST"
and tell us in a short paragraph why you want to win this prize.

Open to all Biz X Facebook fans.

Two winners randomly selected Friday July 15
and posted here and on the Biz X Facebook page.

Odette MBA 5K Fun Run/Walk For ALS Sat. July 16, 2011

2011-07-09T13:14:00.000-04:00

Odette MBA 5K Fun Run/ Walk to Support the Windsor-Essex County ALS Society

The Odette MBA Society at the University of Windsor invites you to participate in the Odette MBA 5K Fun Run/Walk benefiting the Windsor-Essex County ALS Society on Saturday, July 16th. This event will be held at Ganatchio Trail, just across from the WFCU Center. The run/walk will start promptly at 9 am, but prior check-in is required with registration beginning at 8 am. All of the registration information can be found by clicking HERE or logging onto http://www.uwindsor.ca/mbasociety/odette-mba-5k-fun-runwalk.

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a devastating disease that targets the central nervous system. It is estimated that an individual diagnosed with ALS will require $50,000 of equipment. These expenses however are miniscule when compared to the emotional distress and physical suffering of the afflicted individuals. This event was created to support those afflicted members of our community. The Odette MBA 5K Fun Run/Walk demonstrates the unity and strength characteristic of the Windsor community, a community that you are a part of and a unity to which you are called.

Organizers look forward to seeing you on July 16th at Ganatchio Trail! Together, we are making a difference!

Inquiries regarding the Odette MBA 5K Fun Run/Walk can be directed to mbasoc@uwindsor.ca.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

BIBit to WIN IT--deadline July 16, 2011

2011-06-28T17:13:00.000-04:00

A branding boost for one Canadian small business is up for grabs!

Believe, Innovate, and Become “IT”. That is the vision behind BIBit, a national contest for small Canadian businesses offering them the chance to win a branding and communications package valued at $30,000. The BIBit contest is open to Canadian businesses less than five years in operation from the fashion, lifestyle and beauty industries.

Four of Canada’s most talented entrepreneurs and small business owners have joined forces to offer this multidisciplinary package to one Canadian business to help improve their overall brand presentation, recognition, and success. The BIBit partners include Kate Engineer, marketing strategist and owner of BIB Marketing and PR Management; Andrea Ford, interior stylist and owner of RE:Style Studio; Bruno Marsala, director and owner of HD Media Creations; and Jared Tapscott, web designer and owner of Razor Edge Labs.

“The goal is to positively impact the future for another small business by providing them with the necessary expertise, guidance, exposure and branding tools to excel in their industry!” states Andrea Ford.

The BIBit contest grand prize is valued at $30,000 and includes: a six-month public relations management contract, including a media event, provided by BIB Marketing and PR Management; a media event hosted at the RE:Style Studio and a branding consultation with Andrea Ford; a fully produced 90 second HD video directed by HD Media Creation; and a fully customized website and a website strategy consultation provided by Razor Edge Labs. “We moulded our services together ensuring the grand prize will foster brand awareness and sustain an online competitive edge for the winning business, ” shares Bruno Marsala.

BIBit launched tWednesday June 15th 2011 9:00am EST at the official contest website www.bibit.ca and ends on Saturday July 16th 2011 12:00am EST. Eligible Canadian businesses must complete the online BIBit Questionnaire in order to enter the contest, and contestants also have the opportunity to submit a video and photos to provide more information. The partnering entrepreneurs are the judges for the BIBit contest and together will be selecting the winning business. The BIBit winning business will be announced on Tuesday August 2nd 2011 10:00am EST at www.bibit.ca.

Kate Engineer, President and Owner of BIB marketing and PR Management, is the visionary behind the BIBit contest. Kate recognizes the importance strong brand recognition brings to a new business and its success. “Generating brand awareness for your service or product is one of the most challenging aspects of launching a new business, and most start-ups lack the required funds to invest in a public relations or marketing campaign. However, the return on investment can be two-fold and the business rockets to another level. ” Kate understands that becoming an entrepreneur is a risky venture and she decided it was time to help another new Canadian business succeed in their endeavour.

The BIBit contest partners are excited to learn more about the variety of Canadian start-ups businesses within the fashion, lifestyle, and beauty industries through the contestants applications. Jared Tapscott, shares, “we look forward to establishing great relationships with the winning business and celebrating the brand’s transformation.”

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

Kidney Foundation Digs $10k Boost Through Biz Xcellent Fundraiser

2011-06-20T12:36:00.001-04:00

Biz X Magazine

Foundation digs $10k boost through Biz Xcellent fundraiser

People, promotion and place key factors to success

Tecumseh, Ont. The Kidney Foundation of Canada volleyed for a 10k boost through net revenue profits generated by The Biz X Beach Jam Volleyball Tournament held on Saturday, June 18, 2011 at On the Beach (On the Green). The 10k amount represented a 50% spike from its planned revenue goal of $5,000 for 2011 where over 118 participants, volunteers and staff were in attendance for this event.

According to Fund Development & Chapter Manager, Mike Brennan “people, promotion and place rallied the success of this event, which will benefit the Foundation,” in support of raising funds toward stimulating innovative research while increasing awareness of the Foundation’s programs and services locally throughout Windsor-Essex County that benefit approximately 4,000 individuals directly affected by kidney disease or on dialysis.

“The Biz X Beach Jam was a sizzling success and On the Beach was the perfect place to host this summer time fundraiser. I wish to thank the entire committee for all their hard work -- it definitely paid off!” said Deborah Jones, publisher for Biz X Magazine.

In terms of partnership and promotion for the event, “we had a splendid core group of sponsors led by Biz X Magazine, In Play! Magazine, RBC Royal Bank, On the Beach, Bank and 100.7 & 95.1 The Rock,” adds Brennan.

“Biz X and In Play magazines were proud to sponsor this volleyball tournament for the Windsor & District Chapter of the Foundation. Not only did the beach jam raise funds for a very worthy cause but it also gave local employees the chance to have a little fun in the sun and get to know their co-workers better. We definitely look forward to next year's tournament becoming bigger and better than ever!” said Jones.

Of special note, RBC Royal Bank fielded 9 Teams while promoting the event throughout the region amongst its branches and making a significant financial contribution in combined pledges.

The Windsor & District Chapter also made a strategic move to host this event at On the Beach in Tecumseh. “This is Southwestern Ontario’s finest outdoor volleyball venue,” said Brennan.

Team Cole consisting of members Gabriel Bruzzese, Kyle Williamson, Ryan Le, Kelly Paolini, Erin Murphy and Corey Cole dominated the field and commanded the best of 3 final 21-9 and 21-11 respectively over Team Landry to win the $1,000 cash purse before donating $100 back. “It was an excellent event and fundraiser,” said Cole.

Crystal Dewar was the top fundraiser for this event and her team The Ballers led the field in overall pledges at $930 convincingly.

Read Biz X Magazine Here

Windsor Business Accelerator Great for Entrepreneurs New and Experienced.

2011-06-16T13:07:00.000-04:00

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine

Recently I had the chance to tour the new Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator, located at 720 Ouellette Avenue (corner of Ouellette & Tuscarora).

Here I am working from one of the computers
in a two person office in the new facility.

Designed to help accelerate the growth of start-up and emerging businesses and provide mentoring and training programs for entrepreneurs, the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator opened its doors in early June.

The project was developed by the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) and supported by a $678,000 Community Adjustment Fund Grant, courtesy of the Federal Government, for equipment and leasehold improvements. The building’s exterior has been re-vamped to include a fully glassed front wall which offers enhanced lighting and greater energy efficiencies while lending to the ambiance of the new facility. It truly is magnificent and a great place to work!

What’s happening inside the facility is even more exciting. Within 7,000 square feet, the ultra-modern facility incorporates 23 open concept offices; 14 spacious 1-2 person offices; three group-meeting rooms; three living rooms; a library; a kitchen; and a photocopy room. Tenants are offered fully furnished workspaces, including desk/chair, file cabinet, phone, free wireless internet, computer, mailbox, and shared receptionist. Coupled with the collaborative networking environment, the Business Accelerator is an excellent place to grow a business.

For more information check out the June issue of Biz X at http://www.bizxmagazine.com/ and also our July/August edition will feature a spread of photos and more info!

Read Biz X Magazine Here

X MARKS THE SPOT! The Biz X Beach Jam Volleyball Tournament $1000 CASH FIRST PLACE!!!

2011-06-04T18:09:00.000-04:00

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine

Read Biz X Magazine Here

United Way's National Day Of Caring

2011-06-02T16:02:00.000-04:00

Caring for Communities across the Country

On Thursday, June 2, 2011, United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County, in partnership

with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) took part in United Way Canada’s National

Day of Caring.

In Windsor-Essex, individuals from various workplaces and organizations stepped up to the

challenge and planted thousands of plants, and cleaned local watersheds and Conservation Areas to

beautify Windsor and Essex County. Volunteers from Cavendish (UFCW Local 459), H.J. Heinz

Company Limited (UFCW Local 459/IOE Local 772), Ford Motor Company of Canada, Russell A.

Farrow Limited, Leadership Windsor-Essex, which includes individuals representing the banking,

financial, public, health, labour, education, private and not-for-profit sectors, and United Way’s

GenNext Committee took part in the National Day of Caring at the Lou Romano Plant, Hillman

Marsh and Devonwood Park.

The Essex Region Conservation Authority was thrilled to take part and assist in the planning of this

event.

“The clean up helps to remind our community of the need for environmental stewardship of

all of our natural areas,” says Richard Wyman, General Manager, ERCA. “ERCA strives to connect

people to our landscape, waterfronts, and our Great Lakes and rivers with attractive natural areas,

trails, and Conservation Areas as a part of a vibrant and sustainable community.”

“United Way’s National Day of Caring engaged hundreds of volunteers across the country to

support their communities through volunteer activities,” states Penny Marrett, CEO, United

Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County. “We are thankful to be surrounded by so many giving and

caring workplaces and individuals who are dedicated to improving our community and making

Windsor-Essex County a great place to live.”

United Way Canada’s National Day of Caring was held in 18 locations across Canada. Days of

Caring, an initiative of United Way, engage individuals in the community to work together to make a

difference in the community. United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County focuses on three

priority areas: Supporting Basic Needs and Independence, Positioning Kids and Families for

Success, and Creating Thriving Neighbourhoods.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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SPECIAL BBQ ON JUNE 1, 2011

2011-05-28T11:40:00.002-04:00

The Brain Injury Association of Windsor/Essex County is hosting a June Social Event in honour of June being Brain Injury Prevention Month.

Come celebrate on June 1, from 4 to 6 pm at Optimist Park, 1075 Ypres Boulevard (off Ypres between Walker and Howard) with a BBQ by M&M Meat Shops, outdoor games and a scavenger hunt!

Everyone is welcome. ABI survivors can attend for free and for others a donation of $5 is suggested. For more information email info@biawe.com or call Laura Kay, 981-1329.

Visit www.biawe.com for more details on the group.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market Looking For Vendors by May 27, 2011

2011-05-23T21:00:00.000-04:00

Market Gets Ready for 2011 Season

The Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market is looking for vendors for its 2011 season. The market has enjoyed great success and is entering its third year of bringing fresh, local and seasonal foods to the heart of Windsor.

The Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market opened in 2009 at the former Greyhound bus station at 44 University Avenue East. By the end of the season the market was averaging 20 vendors selling local produce and handmade goods; volunteers helped increase the number of vendors and customers for the 2010 season and organizers hope to grow even more this year.

"We have created a gathering place in the heart of the city," says the market’s Chair, Natalie Bownes. "We see many families and individuals from across the city making the market part of their Saturday routine. People are eager to meet local farmers and easily access local food. We hope that new farmers will join us to share in the success of another year."

The Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market is intended to showcase "home-grown" and "hand-made" products. Specifically, the market aims to attract local agricultural growers and dealers, talented artisans and crafters, specialty prepared food vendors, bakers, meat vendors and others.

Volunteers have been meeting since January to ensure that the 2011 season is another great success.

About the DWFM 2011 Season

Producers and vendors interested in participating in the upcoming Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market season need to apply as soon as possible. A vendor package that breaks down pricing and rules is available online at www.downtownfarmersmarket.ca The Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market will be held on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm from June 11 to October 8 at 44 University Avenue East (the former Greyhound bus station).

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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ROCK 'N HORSE FEST AND COUNTRY MUSIC FEST TICKET GIVEAWAY

2011-05-20T13:20:00.003-04:00

ROCK 'N HORSE FEST AND COUNTRY MUSIC FEST TICKET GIVEAWAY

BIZ X MAGAZINE IS GIVING AWAY...

3 PAIR OF TICKETS FOR SATURDAY

2 PAIR OF TICKETS FOR SUNDAY

EACH PAIR INCLUDES A VIP PARKING PASS

$25 FACE VALUE X 2 = $50 VALUE

BIZ X WILL RANDOMLY PICK

WINNERS SATURDAY AM.

WINNERS MUST BE ABLE TO PICK UP

TICKETS AT MICK'S IRISH PUB

28 CHATHAM ST E. AFTER 12PM SATURDAY

WINNERS NOTIFIED BY RETURN EMAIL AND

POSTED ON THE IN PLAY! FACEBOOK PAGE.

SIMPLY EMAIL US AND SAY...

"YEE! HAW! GIMME THOSE TICKETS!"

AND WE HAVE OUR WINNERS!

ROB TRUDELL-SHERI LYNN-LAURA FERRISS
HAVE EACH WON A PAIR OF
TICKETS ($50 VALUE) FOR TODAY'S SHOW

AND

KURT WINKLER - SHAR GOOD
HAVE EACH WON A PAIR OF
TICKETS ($50 VALUE) FOR SUNDAY'S SHOW

CONGRATS TO ALL!!!!

"IT PAYS TO BE A FAN OF BIZ X MAGAZINE"

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Biz X Sponsors Country 95.9 Rock 'N Horse Fest May 20 to May 23

2011-05-17T00:09:00.000-04:00

At Cidermill Farms on Ferriss Road in Harrow, there is a constant buzz of activity as volunteers of all ages prepare for the first ever Country 95.9 Rock ‘N Horse Festival to be held over the Victoria Day weekend at this picturesque site.

Cidermill owner Patricia Laing, who along with numerous helpers is working to ready the farm for next weekend for an influx of visitors from all over South-West Ontario, says “This is going to be the biggest country music and horse show we have ever seen in our region. Spectators are in for a treat – they can choose from barrel-racing, rodeo and hunter jumper competitions as well as live music all three days of the festival.”

Local acts EXIT 31, Crystal Gage and Jody Rafoul who will be playing along with headliner Aaron Lines. Also featured are the Dixie Chiclets, Legends of Country, Garth Brooks Fresh Horses Tribute and many more.

As the Laing family and their partners, Gerard and Christine Bernauer, and Ted Boomer install new fences and ready the paddocks for the weekend’s events, Cidermill riders are prepping for the competitions. A fierce race is on to raise the largest team sponsorship for Saturday’s Hunter Team Challenge, proceeds from which will go to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada. Julie Macfarlane, a Cidermill rider and breast cancer survivor says “Everyone is always excited about a show, but this is a show with a difference – we are raising money for a cause that we were all touched by this year.” Along with Macfarlane, three other Cidermill parents had treatment for breast cancer this year and two other survivors, Stephanie Jackson and Robyn Miller, will be riding in competition over the weekend.

Pat Laing adds: “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors of all kinds to Cidermill – the site is 100% family-friendly and whether you are a horse enthusiast or just like hanging out on the farm and listening to the bands, we can guarantee a great time - and at the same time a chance for us all to contribute to breast cancer research in our community.”

Visit http://www.rocknhorsefest.com/ or the MAY ISSUE OF BIZ X, PAGE 17 TO LEARN MORE ON WHERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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MAY 18-Memorial Ride Honours Fallen Cyclists To Take Place In Windsor

2011-05-11T20:51:00.000-04:00

Bike Friendly Windsor and Windsor Downtown Mission to Host 'Ride of Silence'
Bike Friendly Windsor (BFW), a local cycling advocacy group, is hosting the city's first 'Ride of Silence', a memorial ride dedicated to those who have been injured or killed while riding their bikes. BFW is teaming up with the Windsor Downtown Mission for this event, which will take place on May 18th, beginning at the Mission (664 Victoria Avenue). Registration for the event is at 6 pm, and the ride will commence at 7 pm sharp.

Cyclists will take to the roads in a slow, silent procession to honour cyclists who have been hurt or have died due to an accident while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn't aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves. This event aims to raise motorists' awareness, demonstrating that cyclists have a legal right to the use of public roadways without fear.

Riders are invited to wear black arm bands in order to show support for friends and family who have suffered, and a red arm band if they themselves have been in an accident while riding. Helmets are required for this event and bright clothing is highly recommended for the ride home after. Bike lights are a mandatory safety feature for the ride home, as well.

A funeral hearse, donated by the Anderson and Walter D. Kelly Funeral Homes, will provide safe escort for the participants and underscore the dire implications of not heeding the intended message of the event. A police escort will also be present during the entire ride around the downtown core.

There is no cost to participants and no pledges to be collected, but donations will be welcomed. Proceeds will go towards furthering BFW's goals of making Windsor a bike-friendly city, as well as helping the Downtown Mission continue their necessary service to Windsorites.

About the Ride of Silence (www.rideofsilence.org):
Chris Phelan first got the idea for a memorial ride in Dallas of 2003 after his friend, endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz, was killed by a passing bus mirror on an empty road. Within weeks, the first Ride of Silence was organized and over 1000 riders participated in the emotional event. Since then, Ride of Silence rallies have taken place worldwide, and thousands of people have supported the movement by riding slowly and silently, en masse, on the third Wednesday of May.

About Bike Friendly Windsor (www.bikefriendlywindsor.com):
Bike Friendly Windsor was formed in January of 2010, and its goals are to represent all cyclists in Windsor and to help make Windsor a more bicycle friendly city. It is their belief that a strong cycling culture is an important aspect of any forward thinking city, and that cycling can improve the health, economy, and environment of our local community.

More information about this event, as well as pre-registration forms, can be found on the Bike Friendly Windsor website – www.bikefriendlywindsor.com. Anyone with questions, or anyone interested in volunteering at this event, can email the group at bikefriendlywindsor@gmail.com.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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FREE RECYCLING AT WINDSOR CROSSING MAY 6 TO 16TH!

2011-04-30T15:41:00.000-04:00

Do you have unwanted wood, metals, plastics and electronics collecting dust or taking up space in your home or workplace? Windsor Crossing, in partnership with Turtle Island and Greentec, invites you to safely and responsibly dispose of them for free between May 6th – May 16th, 2011 at Windsor Crossing.

Each year Ontarians generate more than 100,000 tonnes of recyclable waste. With the majority of municipalities charging a disposal fee for each piece of waste that is properly disposed of. The remaining waste is dumped in Ontario, US or international landfill sites, causing landfills to fill up quicker.

Community members and local businesses can drop-off their unwanted wood, metals, plastics and electronics for FREE recycling between 9 am and 9 pm in the main parking lot in front of Adidas. Collected items are shipped directly to Turtle Island and Greentec’s facility for processing in accordance with OES, ISO and MOE regulations.

Acceptable materials include fax machines, turntables, monitors, televisions, wooden articles (tables, book cases etc), cardboard, plastic, metal (lamps, bed frames etc), answering machines, tuners, copiers, amplifiers, pagers & PDAs, audio/video players & recorders, radios, digital cameras, receivers, cell phones, scanners, computers, speakers, telephones, print cartridges and more. For a complete listing of acceptable materials, please visit www.windsorcrossing.com.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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SUNDAY MAY 1 HIKE FOR HOSPICE

2011-04-28T13:39:00.000-04:00

The Annual “Memorial Hike for Hospice” PRESENTED BY BAYSHORE HOME HEALTH begins at 9 a.m. on May 1st at the Windsor Campground. It’s a new location for the annual hike with a host of events honouring those that have fought and lost; those who have fought and won and those who are still fighting.

Hikers are asked to gather pledges with all proceeds going to The Hospice. Food, fun and fond memories are shared all morning. Hikers have a chance to win an IPad2. Email hike@thehospice.ca for your pledge form or call 974-7100, ext 2239.

REGISTRATION 9 AM
HIKE 10 AM
LUNCH 11 AM
THERE WILL BE PRIZES, BALLOON ANIMALS, FACE PAINTING AND FREE GELATO!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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GUY FIERI: FOOD NETWORK STAR ON BIZ X MAY 2011 COVER!

2011-04-21T11:18:00.001-04:00

It's time to let the secret out! The team at Biz X has been busy landing an interview with Food Network Star Guy Fieri...and it will be published in our MAY edition..out digitally May 2! Print copies delivered a few days later.

It's going to be one of our best issues ever! If your business is in the food industry or if you want to get your biz noticed, you must have an ad in this book! Space is limited, email deborah@bizxmagazine.com to get in this edition by MONDAY APRIL 25...Don't miss out!

This book is guaranteed to be read! Guy has millions of fans but more importantly we feature local food companies as well and that means great X-posure for Windsor Essex!

Thanks to Jack Rosenberg for the hookup and Mike Niziolek for a great job on the interview! It turned out fantastic...we know everyone will enjoy it! And hopefully gets to see Guy in action at Caesars Windsor on May 21!

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Vote For Hospice By April 30, 2011 To Help Bayshore!

2011-04-18T19:22:00.000-04:00

Bayshore Home Health charity draw supports local hospices

Canadians can win opportunity to donate $5,000 to community hospice care

Here’s what to do: Please take two minutes from your day by April 30th, 2011 and go to www.bayshore.ca

-Hit the HOSPICE DONATION DRAW icon

-Password HOSPICE DRAW

-And enter WINDSOR as the branch who referred you

The more entries we get for the Windsor area, the better chance we have to win!

You may have $5,000 donated to your local Hospice in your name.

***Please pass along to your colleagues, family and friends and support the amazing work Hospice does in your community!

And here’s the back up information . . .

The click of a mouse and a little luck will be worth $5,000 for a local hospice in a community somewhere in Canada this spring. Bayshore Home Health, Canada’s largest provider of home and community health services, announces its online 2011 Hospice Donation Draw that will see $5,000 donated to a hospice on behalf of the winner.

“The Hospice Donation Draw is open to people in the communities we serve as well as our referral sources such as doctors, hospital staff, social workers, discharge planners, other health care professionals. It’s really for anyone who wants to give back and reconnect with the community,” says Liz Daniel, area director of Bayshore Home Health’s Windsor branch.

People can enter by going to www.bayshore.ca, clicking on the Hospice Donation Draw graphic and typing the password: HOSPICE DRAW. They must complete the entry form by Saturday, April 30, 2011, and then keep their fingers crossed until the winner is announced on Bayshore’s website during the week of May 1.

“We encourage everyone to go online and enter to win an opportunity to help their local hospice,” states Ms Daniel. “Hospices help people at one of the most difficult times of their life, allowing them to pass away with dignity in a comfortable environment and bringing care and compassion to both patients and their families. The Windsor Essex Hospice is an amazing organization that we are very fortunate to have in our community. They are committed to supporting, educating and empowering those people facing life-threatening illness.”

According to the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association only 16 per cent of Canadians who die have access to quality end-of-life care services. Too many Canadians die with suffering that could be addressed in a more effective manner.

Ms Daniel also urges people to participate in this year’s Hike for Hospice Palliative Care that will be held on Sunday, May 1, across Canada in support of local hospice palliative care. Bayshore has been a national sponsor of the event since 2006 and staff from its 50-plus home care branches will be participating in the hike again this year. For more details visit www.thehospice.ca

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Windsor-Essex Earns Top 10 “American Cities of the Future” Ranking

2011-04-15T20:28:00.000-04:00

The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WEEDC), the City of Windsor and Essex County are proud to announce that Windsor-Essex has achieved a top 10 placement in the first ever ‘American Cities of the Future’ ranking compiled by fDi Magazine, a publication of The Financial Times Limited. The ranking uses a mixture of data and expert opinion to rank cities on their attractiveness for inward foreign direct investment, economic development and business expansion. Data collected by fDi Intelligence (www.fDiIntelligence.com) was combined with the submission made by the WEEDC to generate the region’s ranking.

Windsor-Essex not only finished seventh overall in the Large Cities category, we also achieved top ten rankings in three other categories: Infrastructure, Foreign Direct Investment Promotion Strategy, and Economic Potential. Our second place ranking in the Economic Potential category was particularly gratifying and appropriate, given the Conference Board of Canada’s expectation that the Windsor-Essex economy will outperform all other Canadian communities in 2011.

Mayor Eddie Francis said, “Our showing is most impressive especially considering the expanded number of countries involved and the high level of screening that happens.”

Tom Bain, Essex County Warden added, “See what happens when we collaborate and put our best foot forward – this is great news!”

fDi Cities of the Future shortlists are created by an independent collection of data by fDi Intelligence division across 405 cities across North and South America. fDi Intelligence, from The Financial Times Ltd., is the leading provider of foreign direct investment intelligence. The Financial Times, one of the world’s leading business news organizations, is recognised internationally for its authority, integrity and accuracy.

“This award is further evidence that Windsor-Essex is on a path of reinvention. This objective third party affirmation is wonderful.” said Lindsay Boyd, Chairperson of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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First Biz Mixer Rocks!

2011-04-13T12:11:00.000-04:00

Biz X Magazine

Last night's Biz Mixer was a great success! We heard that deals were brokered right there and many new contacts were made.

We hope everybody had a great time and Biz X would like to thank everybody that came out to "Mix it up." Special thanks goes out to Nicole and Brian and all the staff at Mick's Irish Pub for the use of their pub and great appetizers.

We would also like to thank Arms Bumanlag and A News for dropping by to do a live broadcast.

And of course thanks to all the businesses that donated door prizes. Those companies and photos of the prize winners will be featured in the May issue of Biz X.

In the meantime check out the Biz X Facebook fan page (photos will be up late Wednesday) for some funny crowd shots from last night. Feel free to tag yourself so all your friends and family can see you in action. lol

The next Biz Mixer is May 10th at the Ryegate in Tecumseh and we hope to see all of you out there and welcome Newbies! lol Each month the Biz Mixer will be held at a different location.

We're busy working on some FUN new ice breaker games and great new prizes. Any business interested in donating door prizes please email mixer@bizxmagazine.com. Your business will be mentioned at the next Mixer and will also be featured in the following issue of Biz X so it's a great way to get your business name out there.

Thank you everybody
Deborah

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Well-Come Centre Fundraiser April 15, 2011

2011-04-11T14:12:00.000-04:00

April 15 is the date set for a local celebration of female artists to capture the uniqueness and beauty of women experiencing homelessness.

The Well Come Centre for Human Potential: Windsor Essex’s only women’s homeless shelter presents: “Through Her Eyes,” a local celebration of female artists, fashion designers and musicians. All are welcome.

Doors open at 5 p.m. and the fundraiser runs till 10 p.m. at The Boom Boom Room, 351 Ouellette Avenue. Tickets are $35 p.p.

For more information or tickets contact: Jennifer Cline via email: socialwork@well-comecentre.com , visit the “Facebook” event page or call 971-7595.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Windsor Firefighter Application Period Begins April 16

2011-04-07T14:17:00.002-04:00

Biz X Magazine

The City of Windsor will be accepting applications for the position of Fire Fighter commencing Saturday, April 16, 2011 until Friday, April 29, 2011.

Please visit http://www.citywindsor.ca/ and click Work for Windsor on or after April 16, 2011 for further information on how to apply.

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BIKE FRIENDLY WINDSOR SEEKS BOARD MEMBERS APRIL 9, 2011

2011-04-04T21:42:00.000-04:00

Cycling advocacy group continues its forward momentum

Bike Friendly Windsor (BFW), a local cycling advocacy group, is seeking volunteers for its board of directors. They are incorporating as a not-for-profit organization, in order to apply for government funding. Part of the incorporation process is forming a board of directors.

Board positions to be filled include: vice-chair, recruitment director, event planning director, fundraising director, and two general director positions.

Board meetings are held once a month, usually on a Saturday afternoon, and last from one to two hours.

Those wishing to find out more can attend the upcoming board meeting scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 9, 2011. The meeting will be held at the Windsor Family Credit Union branch located at 2800 Tecumseh Road East (at Drouillard Road).

“Board members don’t need to be serious cyclists,” says BFW chairperson Steve Konkle. “Our board consists of a variety of cyclists from various groups throughout Windsor Essex. We have commuters, avid road cyclists, mountain bike racers and joy riders. If you have a passion to see Windsor become more bike-friendly, then we want to hear from you.”

About Bike Friendly Windsor

Bike Friendly Windsor was formed in January of 2010, and its goals are to represent all cyclists in Windsor and to help make Windsor a more bicycle friendly city. It is their belief that a strong cycling culture is an important aspect of any forward thinking city, and that cycling can improve the health, economy, and environment of our local community.

Bike Friendly Windsor currently has 228 members in its Facebook group, and last year they successfully held events during national Bike Month, including a cleanup of Gateway Park and a screening of the film Veer at the Milk Coffee Bar. This year, the group plans on hosting a memorial Ride of Silence through Windsor’s downtown core, as well as another film screening. Bike Friendly Windsor is also actively involved with lobbying city council for more bike infrastructure in Windsor.

More information can be found on the Bike Friendly Windsor website, www.bikefriendlywindsor.com and anyone interested in helping to make Windsor more cycle-friendly can email the group at bikefriendlywindsor@gmail.com.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Got Marrow? Give Life! April 3 At Casino

2011-03-31T09:44:00.000-04:00

Better World Today Association has team up with Katelyn Bedard Bone Marrow Association and are holding a swap drive.

Sunday April 3th at 7 pm at Caesars Windsor (in the Augustus Ballroom) you will have the opportunity to get signed up on the marrow registry. It is a simply swab of the cheeks on the inside of your mouth. You will then be put on the marrow registry and if anyone matches your type then you will be called to donate.

There are over 800 people in Canada that need a bone marrow donor and if they don`t get one they will die. Over 13 million people on the World wide registry and they can`t find a match. This tells you how hard it is to find a match. You are a slim possibility of being a match.
For more information visit http://www.bwta.ca/, the website of the Better World Today Assocation.

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Capital Budget To Be Considered--April 6, 2011

2011-03-30T10:01:00.002-04:00

City Council will be considering the City of Windsor’s 2011 Capital Budget, and they are seeking public input. Interested individuals or organizations are invited to provide written and/or verbal presentations and appear as a delegation before Council on:

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

5:00 p.m.

Council Chambers, 350 City Hall Square West

To appear as a delegation, individuals are asked to call Council Services at (519) 255-6432. Audiovisual equipment may be used if requested at the time of their call. The public is advised that presentations cannot exceed five minutes.

Written submissions are encouraged. Submissions can be sent to Council Services at 350 City Hall Square West, Room 203, N9A 6S1, or faxed to (519) 255-6868, or e-mailed to clerks@city.windsor.on.ca no later than the end of business on Monday, April 4, 2011. A copy of the recommended capital budget can be found online at www.citywindsor.ca or viewed in print at all Windsor Public Library branches beginning Thursday, March 31 at noon.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island Transitional Board Appoints Interim CEO

2011-03-24T21:31:00.000-04:00

Biz X Magazine

Windsor, ON—The Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) Transitional Board has appointed Elly Johnson, Director of Group Programs and Development as Interim CEO for the organization effective immediately.

Ms. Johnson, a Certified Travel Manager (CTM) has been with TWEPI since the startup as the Director of Group Programs and Development. Her portfolio includes Meetings and Conventions, Leisure Trade, Sports Tourism and Black History. She has worked in various capacities in the travel industry retail, wholesale, tourist board and currently destination marketing organization (DMO). Ms. Johnson’s responsibilities have included tourism management on a national and international level.

The Transitional Board will launch a national search for the CEO position and will begin the recruitment process for the Board of Directors in the coming weeks.

The Transitional Board is led by Mayor Eddie Francis, City of Windsor and Tom Bain, Essex County Warden and supported by Mayor Rick Masse, Pelee Island, Mayor Gary McNamara, Town of Tecumseh, Mayor Nelson Santos, Town of Kingsville, and Windsor City Councillors Drew Dilkens and Percy Hatfield.

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ART FLING BEGINS MARCH 26, APRIL 2, APRIL 9 & 16

2011-03-22T10:17:00.000-04:00

SPRING ART SHOW AT LIBRARY BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER

Local Handmade Goods Showcased at Riverside Library

(Windsor, ON) The Arts Council - Windsor & Region will showcase local artists at Riverside Public Library for 4 consecutive Saturdays when Art Fling in Spring kicks off on March 26, 2011.

The annual event will run in time to give the public great ideas for locally made Easter or Mother’s Day gifts. Each week will feature a mix of artists with handmade goods including paintings, greeting cards, leather work, hats, photographs, soap, ceramics, and native crafts.

Artisans will be set up in the library’s event room and organizers are hoping to see some familiar faces as well as extend their reach to families who use the library on Saturday, the building’s busiest day.

"Since the closure of the Riverside Arena and the Edward Street Community Centre, there are few community meeting places left in Riverside, so the library is a natural fit," says Philippa von Ziegenweidt, an area resident and a director with the Arts Council - Windsor & Region. "This is an exciting way for the Riverside community to see Windsor’s artistic side without having to go far from home. I'm also thrilled to be organizing an event that combines literacy and the arts."

"People usually don’t think twice about going to a brand-name store to purchase gifts, but what about picking out some locally-made one of a kind artwork instead?" says von Ziegenweidt.

Date: March 26, April 2, April 9, April 16
Time: 10am to 4pm
Cost: Free

-March 26 - Dragon's Den (Randi Cartier), Bethany Findlay, Mia Kerr, Jean Giofu, Kathryn Pasquach, Elizabeth Prosser, Ann Spadafora, Adele Steinberg, Renate Tunney, Gulnaz Turdalieva, Nicolette Westfall, Sebastien Woods

-April 2 - Julie Bell, Megan Caroll, Sharon Damn, Dragon's Den (Randi Cartier), Bethany Findlay, Jean Giofu, Mia Kerr, Gulnaz Turdalieva, Julie Lawrence, Connie Machin, Sue Marentette, Elizabeth Matlack, Ann Spadafora, Adele Steinberg, Marie Wellwood

-April 9 - Julie Bell, Megan Caroll, Michelle Chappus, Laura Gould, Bethany Findlay, Elisha Giquel, Mia Kerr, Lori Lorimer, Kathryn Pasquach, Elizabeth Matlack, Ann Spadafora, Adele Steinberg, Carol Ann Winters

-April 16 - Megan Caroll, Dragon's Den (Randi Cartier), Bethany Findlay, Sandra Foster, Mia Kerr, Kathryn Pasquach, Elizabeth Matlack, Ann Spadafora, Adele Steinberg, Elaine Weeks

Further information can be obtained by going to www.acwr.net or calling 519-252 6855. The library is located at 6305 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor (2 blocks east of Jefferson Boulevard).

About the Event
The Arts Council - Windsor & Region will showcase local artists at the Riverside Library on March 26, April 2, April 9, and April 16 from 10am to 4pm. Each week will feature a mix of artists with handmade goods including paintings, greeting cards, leather work, hats, photographs, soap, ceramics, and native crafts. Organizers say, “This is an exciting way for the Riverside community to see Windsor’s artistic side without having to go far from home.”

For more information contact the Arts Council - Windsor & Region at info@acwr.net, go to www.acwr.net or call (519) 252-6855.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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WATER WEEK MARCH 14 TO 22, 2011

2011-03-14T11:28:00.000-04:00

WUC Challenges Windsor During Canada Water Week

“We need clean water to live. It’s not an option,” says John Wladarski, General Manager of the Windsor Utilities Commission (WUC).

And to ensure we have it, WUC is challenging all Windsor residents to step up their water conservation efforts during Canada Water Week. WUC is asking Windsor residents to share their own water conservation tips by sending their conservation stories to the local utility from March 14th, 2011 to March 22nd, 2011.

“We tend to take water for granted, because we live in a freshwater rich part of the world. But the fact is that water shortages are becoming a reality all over the world, including Canada.” explains Wladarski. “WUC is very conscious of our responsibility to preserve, conserve and protect our water supply. By inviting people to share their stories with each other through our website, we are hoping to inspire them to look for new and innovative ways to work together to protect this essential resource.”
Wladarski says WUC wants to ensure that the people of Windsor, and beyond, have a clean, safe, reliable supply of water, now and for future generations.

“We are front line stewards on an essential resource for all of life,” he explains. “That’s one reason we work hard to replace old and leaking pipes. It also makes good economic sense to look after our infrastructure and not lose water through holes and cracks in old pipes.”

According to Wladarski, it takes very little effort to practice effective water conservation.

“It’s as easy as turning off the tap while you’re brushing your teeth, instead of letting it run, or keeping a jug of water in the fridge so you don’t have to run the water until it gets cold. Spring is coming and there are lots of outdoor things we can do to save water, too.”

And WUC is leading the way, as a North American leader in water purification and treatment, and a voluntary participant in Windsor’s international agreement to help conserve water, called the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence initiative.

“What many people don’t know,” Wladarski continues, “is that our Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin are home to 20% of the surface freshwater in the world. WUC is working hard to bring communities on both sides of the border together, to protect the world’s most significant supply of fresh water.”

Canada Water Week kicks off March 14th, 2011 and ends with the global celebration of World Water Day on March 22nd, 2011. WUC invites everyone to send conservation stories and tips to waterstory@wuc.on.ca. Inspiring stories and ideas will be featured on the WUC website, beginning March 22.

For conservation tips and ideas, go to – www.wuc.on.ca – which includes a Kid Zone www.enwin.com/kids with educational games and lots of fun water-related activities. For more information about Canada Water week, go to http://www.canadawaterweek.com/.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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CHANGE YOUR CLOCKS & BATTERIES MARCH 13TH

2011-03-10T11:04:00.000-05:00

Time to Change your Clocks and the Batteries in all Smoke Alarms

Daylight savings begins on March 13, 2011 and Windsor Fire and Rescue Services is recommending residents install new batteries in their smoke alarms when they change their clocks this weekend.

“In order for smoke alarms to do their job, they need to have working batteries,” explainS Lee Tome, Chief Fire Prevention Officer. “Once a year, old batteries should be replaced with new batteries. When you change your clocks this weekend, Windsor Fire and Rescue Services wants everyone to take the time to install new batteries in all smoke alarms.”

In order to survive a fire, you need to be provided with an early warning and know what to do when the smoke alarms sound. It’s the law to have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, it is recommended to also install smoke alarms inside all bedrooms.

Tampering with, or removing the batteries from your smoke alarms is against the law. Failure to comply with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in a ticket for $235 or a fine of up to $50,000.

For more information visit www.windsorfire.com

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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TAZA IS FRESH IS BACK IN BUSINESS!

2011-03-09T11:54:00.000-05:00

Abe Taqtaq, owner of Taza Is Fresh Restaurant is pleased to announce that the restaurant has re-opened on March 7, 2011 after being closed since November 11, 2010 when an accidental fire closed the restaurant.

"We look forward to welcoming our many local customers and new customers alike," says Taqtaq.

The popular south Windsor eatery is located at 350 Cabana Road East and serves fresh authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine. For more details check out ww.tazaisfresh.com

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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DRAGONS’ DEN AUDITIONS IN WINDSOR MARCH 10, 2011

2011-03-07T20:19:00.000-05:00

DRAGONS’ DEN takes to the road for the Season Six audition tour, stopping in a whopping 36 cities. Entrepreneurs from across the country are getting yet another chance to enter the DRAGONS’ DEN in a bid to score some high-powered financial backing for their business ventures.

Open auditions are taking place in Windsor on Thursday, March 10th from 11am to 6pm at the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, 2575 Ouellette Place.

DRAGONS’ DEN gives aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their businesses to a panel of wealthy Canadian business moguls – the Dragons. Successful pitchers will have a chance to earn real investment – from the Dragons’ own pockets! The stakes will be even higher as the Dragons prepare for Season Six – they’ll be looking for the biggest and best deals from coast-to-coast.

No experience is necessary to audition. Interested entrepreneurs should be prepared to pitch their business in under five minutes. If they can convince the DRAGONS’ DEN production team they are ready for the limelight, they could be invited to face the Dragons when the upcoming season is filmed in Toronto. Interested entrepreneurs are asked to apply online and bring a completed application form to the audition.

For more details, including a full list of cities and dates, visit cbc.ca/dragonsden.

The current season can be seen Wednesdays at 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) on CBC Television and has averaged over 1.7 million viewers per week. The recent January 12, special “Second Chance” episode drew a series high of close to 2.2 million viewers*.

DRAGONS’ DEN is a hit on air, and online, boasting an active and engaged online community. Full episodes, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and details on the audition tour can be viewed at cbc.ca/dragonsden.

* Based on overnight unconfirmed PPM Data

Check out the archives of Biz X magazine (accessed via the current issue on our home page), especially the March 2009 and October 2010 to see which other local Windsor entrepreneurs have gone up against the dragons!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Vote Now For Computers For Kids!

2011-03-02T21:50:00.000-05:00

Computers for Kids (CFK) needs your help!!!

Help a local organization give free computer placements to at-risk youth in the Windsor area!

CFK has been approved for voting for the Pepsi Refresh Canada Project. Beginning March 1st please visit www.refresheverything.ca/computers4kids and vote for their $10,000 project. The project “Computers Connecting Kids” will enable them to purchase an expensive hard drive eraser. Only the top 3 projects are chosen so they need your votes every day! If successful, this project will increase the amount of computers we can place with at-risk youth in our community.

VOTE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN EACH AND EVERY DAY!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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TECUMSEH ROADHOUSE TURNS TWO! Specials till March 3!

2011-02-26T10:49:00.000-05:00

Tuesday March 1 marks the beginning of the Tecumseh Roadhouse restaurant’s second anniversary, a celebration that lasts three days (March 1 - 3) and allows customers to sample a selection of 2 for 1 specials.

The sotuhern bbq and burger bar is located at 10672 County Road 42 or on the web at http://www.tecumsehroadhouse.com/ It's also a Biz X and IN PLAY advertiser and of course you know how much I support our clients!

Specials for the birthday on the menu are: 2 for 1 appetizers with purchase of an entrée, 2 for 1 wings, and 2 for 1 kids menu. Patrons can also enjoy $2 selected cocktails and beers, 2 Can Dine for $22, and enter the raffle to win Dinner for 2.

“It’s a doozy of a toozie,” says owner Mark Boscariol. “If it’s heroic-sized meals, great value for money, good service and a family-friendly environment you’re after, then Tecumseh Roadhouse is the place to be.”

For the past two years, the Tecumseh Roadhouse has been a popular choice in the Windsor -Tecumseh dining scene. Located on County Road 42 between Banwell and Lesperance, the Tecumseh Roadhouse has been designed to appeal to a mixed clientele of county and city residents. The eatery’s interior, accented with plenty of woodwork and imagery from days gone by, is aesthetically interesting and adds to its warm, fun and edgy atmosphere. It also features large screen TVs for sports enthusiasts taking in the game night action while enjoying the casual fare. The perfect lighting makes for an intimate and inviting table setting, and there’s plenty of room at booths, tables, and the extended bar area.

The restaurant’s menu takes comfort food to a whole new level. Chef Rocco Bileti proudly serves up a diverse and award-winning menu that epitomizes hearty smoked barbeque and Southern cooking. In addition to the tried-and-true Eureka burger and the Big Chief burger, the Tecumseh Roadhouse offers up the Voodoo Blue burger - a mouth-watering patty blackened with blue cheese, served with onion rings and encased in a fresh, crusty bun. The Roadhouse prides itself on buying local - its patties are sourced from the Wild Acre Black Angus cattle ranch in Woodslee and all of its fresh ingredients and produce, wines, and delicious pretzel rolls are local too! The Tecumseh Roadhouse also compliments its meals with five signature sauces that can be sampled individually or blended for custom flavour.

So stop on by and support a local Windsor business! Tell them Biz X sent ya!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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LAST CALL FOR QUITTERS IN WINDSOR-ESSEX

2011-02-22T12:38:00.000-05:00

Deadline to enter The Driven to Quit Challenge is February 28

The last day to enter the Canadian Cancer Society’s annual Driven to Quit Challenge is on February 28, 2011. Those who are planning to quit, or have recently quit, have less than a week left to register for their chance to win a big prize, in addition to winning many health benefits.

Challenge participants must sign up with a support buddy and stay tobacco-free for the month of March to be eligible. And, one lucky winner who chooses to quit this March, will also be choosing between a Honda CR-Z and Honda Insight – the grand prize in this year’s Challenge. Other prizes include two $5,000 CAA vacations and seven regional prizes, valued at $2,000 each. Buddies of winners each receive a $200 MasterCard gift card, making it enticing to encourage a friend to enter.

To be eligible, you must be an Ontario resident aged 19 or older who had used tobacco at least once a week in 2010. Even those who have quit since late 2010 are eligible to enter.

“We know that quitting is a process, not an event,” says Judy Lund, Manager, Essex County Unit. “That is why we are challenging all Ontario tobacco users, including those who have recently quit, to stay smoke-free for March. Most importantly, we are giving them the tools to help them be successful.”

All participants can contact the Canadian Cancer Society Smokers’ Helpline, for free, at 1 877 513-5333 and www.SmokersHelpline.ca. By phone, you can speak with a Quit Coach to discuss your personalized quit plan. Online, download your Quit Meter to see the financial and physical benefits of quitting in real time. To learn more, and to register for, the 2011 Driven to Quit Challenge, go online at www.DrivenToQuit.ca, or call Smokers’ Helpline, by February 28, 2011.

About The Driven to Quit Challenge

The Driven to Quit Challenge is hosted by the Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario Division, with funding from the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion and generous prize support from McNeil Consumer Healthcare, a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson Inc. The Driven to Quit Challenge is presented in collaboration with local public health departments across the province.

About the Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario Division

The Canadian Cancer Society is a national community-based organization of volunteers whose mission is the eradication of cancer and the enhancement of the quality of life of people living with cancer. When you want to know more about cancer, visit www.cancer.ca or call the bilingual Cancer Information Service, toll-free, at 1 888 939-3333.

For more information about The Driven to Quit Challenge and to speak with a Canadian Cancer Society spokesperson, please contact:

Sarah Hutchison, Smokers’ Helpline - Southwestern Regional Coordinator

Canadian Cancer Society, (519) 691-7887 shutchison@ontario.cancer.ca

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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PRACTICE HOME FIRE ESCAPE PLAN FAMILY DAY FEB. 21, 2011

2011-02-18T09:45:00.002-05:00

Ensure everyone in your home knows what to do in case of fire

There have already been 12 fire-related fatalities in Ontario this year one of those occurring in Windsor. Windsor Fire and Rescue Services is urging families to practice their home fire escape plans and ensure all smoke alarms are working as part of Family Day on February 21, 2011.

Simple steps for home fire escape planning include:

• Develop a home fire escape plan and discuss it with the entire household.

• Show everyone two ways out of each room, if possible.

• Check that all exits are unobstructed and easy to use.

• Determine who will be responsible for helping young children, older adults or anyone else who may need assistance.

• Choose a meeting place outside, such as a tree or a lamp post, where everyone can be accounted for.

• If there is smoke, get low and go under the smoke to the nearest safe exit.

• Call the fire department from outside the home, from a cell phone or neighbour’s home.

• Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building.

When a fire occurs, people may only have a few seconds to escape. We are urging people to develop and practice a home fire escape plan so that everyone knows what do when a fire occurs. Having working smoke alarms in the home as part of the plan will help people get that early warning to escape.

It’s the law to have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, it is recommended to also install smoke alarms inside all bedrooms. Failure to comply with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in a ticket for $235 or a fine of up to $50,000.

For more safety tips to keep your family safe from fire, visit www.windsorfire.com

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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March 3-- CEL Business Plan Competition

2011-02-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

The search for Windsor's next top entrepreneur is on! Come and watch the finalists present their business ideas to a panel of expert judges for a chance to win $15,000 in prizes!

Thursday March 3, 12 to 5 at the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Avenue.
$30 gets you lunch, an opportunity to listen to Nicholas Shields of Suede Productions give the key not address, presentatinos and a vote in the Elevator Pitch Competition.

Please register by Thursday Feb. 24 by visitin www.uwindsor.ca/cel

Event presented by the Centre for Enterprise & Law (CEL) at the University of Windsor.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Free Last Will & Testament and Power of Attorney for Low Income Individuals

2011-02-15T15:48:00.000-05:00

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine

Windsor – On Monday, February 14, 2011, an initiative to provide pro bono legal services was launched through the generous donation of a local lawyer. Services are now available to assist individuals experiencing low-income with the creation of their Last Will and Testament and Power of Attorney.

United Way/Centraide Windsor Essex County, along with its community partners, Citizen Advocacy, Canadian Mental Health Association, Drouillard Place, Community University Partnership, and students from the University of Windsor, Faculty of Law, will work together to deliver these needed services under the supervision of a local barrister and solicitor.

Individuals who meet eligibility requirements will receive this assistance free of charge. This initiative will ensure that individuals who cannot afford to pay for this type of service will have access to Last Will and Testaments and Powers of Attorney.

For more information please contact United Way at (519) 258-0000.

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Tax Relief for Extreme Sickness and Poverty Application Deadline Approaching

2011-02-14T09:34:00.001-05:00

The deadline to apply for the City of Windsor’s Extreme Sickness or Poverty Tax Relief Program is February 28, 2011. The pilot program offers relief of 2010 residential taxes to property owners applying for tax relief due to Extreme Sickness or Poverty under Section 357. (1) (d.1) of the Ontario Municipal Act.

Under the program, the Tax Adjustment applies only to Single Family Residential homes. The property owner may only apply for a period of 2 consecutive years on the same property.

To qualify for Category 1, Extreme Poverty, the applicant must meet the low income thresholds as determined according to number of persons in the household. A complete list of threshold levels is available on the City’s website or from 311.

To qualify for Category 2, Extreme Sickness, either the primary income earner in the household or a dependant whose care requires the primary income earner to take leave from work must have suffered from prolonged sickness for at least 90 days in 2010.

Funds for this pilot program are limited, so applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Applicants will be requested to provide proof of eligibility including medical certificates, sources of income and limited assets. For a complete list of requirements and to obtain an application form, please visit http://www.citywindsor.ca/ or visit Room 100, 350 City Hall Square West. To learn more about the program, call 311.

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VOTE FOR KRISTI- SPORTS ILLUSTRATED MODEL!!!!

2011-02-04T10:51:00.000-05:00

Kristi King, the Biz X "fire girl" from the nov/dec 2010 awards issue needs your vote to be in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Calendar! Copy and paste this link,

http://www.sinewmodelsearch.co.za/model/?model_id=248#gallery

JUST CLICK THE VOTE BUTTON, THAT'S IT! YOU CAN VOTE EVERY 20 MINUTES.....PLEASE HELP OUR MODEL WIN! VOTE TILL APRIL 30TH!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Snow Emergency Over

2011-02-03T15:47:00.000-05:00

UPDATE FROM THE CITY OF WINDSOR THURSDAY FEB. 3, 2011

The storm emergency that was declared for Windsor on February 1st ends Friday February 4th at 7:00 a.m.

Ploughing Status:

• City crews have salted and ploughed the main roads throughout the city and moved on to residential streets last evening.

• It is anticipated that clearing of residential streets will not be completed until early Friday morning.

Residents and Property Owners:

• Since the snow emergency will be lifted on Friday February 4th at 7:00 a.m. free parking at City facilities – including arenas, community centres, municipal lots and garages will end at that time.

• The City’s Sidewalk By-law does require you to clear sidewalks abutting your property.

• Please be aware that during the ploughing process, snow is pushed to the side of the road, and it may be deposited at the end of your driveway, dependent on the level accumulation in the street. The property owner is responsible for clearing the driveway after this has occurred.

• The City of Windsor does not have a bare pavement policy as it relates to residential streets. With the combination of ploughing, salting and vehicular traffic bare pavement of residential streets will eventually be achieved.

For information, please visit the Newsroom at www.citywindsor.ca or call 311.

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Snow Clearing Update

2011-02-02T13:00:00.000-05:00

by Deborah Jones Publisher
Biz X Magazine

February 2, 2011
Weather Summary:
Intermittent snow continues with an additional 4-5 cm expected into early afternoon.
Motorists are reminded to exercise caution and drive to suit road conditions.

Ploughing Status:
Ploughing of arterial and collector routes will continue until snow has stopped.
City of Windsor crews will be proceeding with salting and ploughing of residential streets to start later today.
It is anticipated that clearing of these residential streets will take between 24-36 hours to complete.

Residents and Property Owners:
Wherever possible, please continue to remove vehicles from all streets by parking in a driveway, or if available, in a nearby parking lot. All arena, community centre and other municipal parking lots and garages are being cleared to allow residents to park free of charge until the snow emergency has been lifted. This will allow the ploughs to clear snow on main and residential streets in an effective manner.

The City’s Sidewalk By-law does require you to clear sidewalks abutting your property. We ask that residents and property owners act as Snow Angels and help out those neighbours in need. Call 311 to register. It’s the neighbourly thing to do.

Please be aware that during the ploughing process, snow is pushed to the side of the road, and it may be deposited at the end of your driveway, dependent on the level accumulation in the street. The property owner is responsible for clearing the driveway after this has occurred.

Riverside Drive at Riverdale to Greenpark remains closed until further notice.

Windsor Fire & Rescue Services is asking residents to keep fire hydrants clear of snow. In the event of a fire, it will be easier for fire crews to gain access to the hydrant.

For information, please stay tuned to the local media, visit the Newsroom at http://www.citywindsor.ca/ or call 311.

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2011--The Perfect Time To Be A Quitter

2011-01-25T15:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's right ..usually I am not a promoter of quitting but this time, its for a good reason. Windsor-Essex residents can challenge themselves or a friend to gear up to quit smoking this New Year

The sixth annual "Driven to Quit" Challenge hosted by the Canadian Cancer Society is underway in 2011. The Challenge offers new and exciting prizes to motivate tobacco users across Ontario to stick to their New Year resolution and quit smoking.

Quit smoking for the month of March and you could win a 2011 Honda CR-Z hybrid or Honda Insight hybrid. There are also two $5,000 vacations to be won provincially, plus seven regional prizes worth $2,000 each.

The "Driven to Quit" Challenge is a health promotion campaign that encourages Ontario adult tobacco users to give up tobacco with the support of a “buddy.” Since 2006, the campaign has helped more than 130,000 entrants to make a quit attempt. Selected winners are drawn at random and are tested to verify they are tobacco-free.

“The Driven to Quit Challenge is an important way for Ontarians to learn about the cessation supports available to them, which may significantly increase their chance of quitting,” says Judy Lund, Manager of the Canadian Cancer Society, Essex County Unit.

"We know that many smokers want to quit. Recent data from local workplaces indicate two thirds of adult smokers in Windsor and Essex County want to quit within the next six months,” says Neil MacKenzie, Manager of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Windsor-Essex County Health Unit. “The Driven to Quit Challenge is a great opportunity for smokers who want to quit to do so, and they have a chance to win some great prizes. Last year, 695 Windsor-Essex County smokers took part in the Driven to Quit Challenge”.

For help to get on track, tobacco users can access resources such as the Canadian Cancer Society Smokers’ Helpline at 1 877 513-5333 and SmokersHelpline.ca for free support, advice and information.

Registration is open until February 28th! Sign up NOW!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Biz X Awards TV Coverage --Don't Miss It!

2011-01-07T13:10:00.000-05:00

EWTV's "Red Carpet" show on the 13th annual Biz X Awards Gala at St. Clair Centre for the Arts can now be viewed at http://www.entertainmentwindsor.ca/EW/EWTV.html
Check out hosts Sean Ireland and Veronica Mancini as they interview our guests!

As well all the highlights of the evening air on TVCOGECO's "Plugged In" show starting Tuesday January 11 to Sunday January 30th on Channel 11. Be sure to tune in Tuesdays: 5, 6:30 pm & 11 pm...Thursdays: 5 & 6:30 p.m. and Sundays 12:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Thank you TVCOGECO and Entertainment Windsor for this wonderful coverage!

by Deborah Jones Publisher Biz X Magazine

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Searching For A Multicultural Hero

2010-12-21T22:08:00.001-05:00

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

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Advice on Potential Travel Fees to Expect

2010-12-15T10:52:00.000-05:00

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.

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Seniors' Gift Wish List Includes The Practical & The Unique

2010-12-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

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

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

2010-11-09T14:06:00.000-05:00

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

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Call For Conservation Awards

2010-10-28T17:57:00.000-04:00

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

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Mike Burton's Conspiracy Theory Debunked

2010-10-21T12:40:00.001-04:00

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!

Read Biz X Magazine Here

TIME TO VOTE OCT 25 IN WINDSOR ELECTION!

2010-10-18T11:53:00.002-04:00

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

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vote early in windsor municipal election

2010-10-04T19:55:00.000-04:00

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

Read Biz X Magazine Here

St. Clair Centre for the Arts Open House oct 2010

2010-09-28T10:34:00.000-04:00

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

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Take A Coffee Break!

2010-09-16T12:55:00.000-04:00

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

The 15^th 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

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Distress Centre Needs Your Help!

2010-09-04T14:03:00.000-04:00

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

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Food Drive Sept 4th At Devonshire Mall

2010-08-30T13:12:00.000-04:00

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

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SHOULD THE WINDSOR MARKET STAY OR MOVE?

2010-08-04T23:23:00.001-04:00

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

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FUNDS FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTS

2010-07-19T13:43:00.000-04:00

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

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ART WALK & ROCK

2010-07-04T20:37:00.000-04:00

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

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YAHOO! THE GAMES ARE COMING TO WINDSOR!

2010-06-28T10:51:00.000-04:00

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

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Windsor Gets Spot On Canadian Monopoly board

2010-06-22T17:35:00.001-04:00

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

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Red Bull Weekend

2010-06-07T12:46:00.000-04:00

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

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Pete McLeod Comes To Town

2010-05-25T16:20:00.003-04:00

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!

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

2010-05-15T15:22:00.001-04:00

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

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bealtaine

2010-05-08T12:37:00.000-04:00

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.

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May 2010--125th edition

2010-05-03T12:46:00.000-04:00

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

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May 1st Karate Tournament

2010-04-25T12:20:00.000-04:00

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

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

2010-04-19T23:40:00.000-04:00

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

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Awesome Week For Windsor Essex!

2010-04-16T11:23:00.000-04:00

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

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Afternoon Tea anyone?

2010-04-13T17:00:00.000-04:00

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.

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Kitchen Nightmares April 9, 2010

2010-04-09T09:34:00.001-04:00

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

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April 2010

2010-03-30T20:34:00.002-04:00

“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

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WINDSOR POWERS DOWN FOR EARTH HOUR

2010-03-29T11:47:00.001-04:00

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.

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Participate In Earth Hour Saturday March 27, 2010

2010-03-23T20:28:00.000-04:00

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.

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