Windsor Business Networks

Fighting Engagement Bait on Facebook

2018-01-16T07:12:00.002-05:00

News Feed FYI: Fighting Engagement Bait on Facebook

By Henry Silverman, Operations Integrity Specialist and Lin Huang, Engineer

People have told us that they dislike spammy posts on Facebook that goad them into interacting with likes, shares, comments, and other actions. For example, “LIKE this if you’re an Aries!” This tactic, known as “engagement bait,” seeks to take advantage of our News Feed algorithm by boosting engagement in order to get greater reach. So, starting this week, we will begin demoting individual posts from people and Pages that use engagement bait.

To help us foster more authentic engagement, teams at Facebook have reviewed and categorized hundreds of thousands of posts to inform a machine learning model that can detect different types of engagement bait. Posts that use this tactic will be shown less in News Feed.

Additionally, over the coming weeks, we will begin implementing stricter demotions for Pages that systematically and repeatedly use engagement bait to artificially gain reach in News Feed. We will roll out this Page-level demotion over the course of several weeks to give publishers time to adapt and avoid inadvertently using engagement bait in their posts. Moving forward, we will continue to find ways to improve and scale our efforts to reduce engagement bait.

Posts that ask people for help, advice, or recommendations, such as circulating a missing child report, raising money for a cause, or asking for travel tips, will not be adversely impacted by this update.

Instead, we will demote posts that go against one of our key News Feed values — authenticity. Similar to our other recent efforts to demote clickbait headlines and links to low-quality web page experiences, we want to reduce the spread of content that is spammy, sensational, or misleading in order to promote more meaningful and authentic conversations on Facebook.

How will this impact Pages?

Publishers and other businesses that use engagement bait tactics in their posts should expect their reach on these posts to decrease. Meanwhile, Pages that repeatedly share engagement bait posts will see more significant drops in reach. Page Admins should continue to focus on posting relevant and meaningful stories that do not use engagement bait tactics.

Source

2017-03-20T11:29:00.001-04:00

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex

Unveil Teen Mentoring Program

Windsor, Ontario – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex is proud to announce the unveiling of the Teen

Mentoring Program in partnership with the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board through the support

of the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Local media representatives are encouraged to attend.

Date:  Friday March 24, 2017

Time:  11:00 am

Location:  

Corpus Christi Middle School

950 Raymo Rd. Windsor

(519) 945-0620

Who:

Percy Hatfield, MPP for Windsor-Tecumseh

Lucie Lombardo, OTF Grant Review Team member

Becky Parent, Executive Director (Acting), Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex

Members of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex

About the Teen Mentoring Program

Teen Mentoring is a program which provides an elementary school student with a unique one to one

relationship with a Teen Mentor. A Teen Mentor is a high school student selected by their school based on

their ability to be a positive role model. The program consists of a supervised weekly one hour visit between a

Teen Mentor and Mentee with the focus on building a friendship.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex is a not for profit organization supporting youth, families and adult

volunteers in mentoring relationships, empowering youth to gain positive life experience and achieve personal

growth.

Learn more by visiting www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe.ca

Trying to park in a handicap spot? Watch what happens...

2016-02-19T12:05:00.001-05:00

In This Mall, Holograms Of Disabled People Appear If You Try To Park In Their Space

Young Windsorites; Determined to know "Why"

2015-10-26T18:24:00.001-04:00

I realize that I have not written for this blog in a long time, and I am sorry for that. I intend to write much more in the coming months. Though there should be no excuses as to why I have not taken advantage of such an opportunity, I have managed to find some. I have come to the conclusion that the reason I have not contributed is because I am, in fact, a teenager. In saying this I only mean that I have been occupied with my own development and that I have been changing and coming into myself. I do believe I have matured a lot in the last few months. I have learned much about myself and about those who surround me. Not only this, but I have learned a lot about Windsor, Ontario, the place I call home.

Windsor, though not the most popular city, is quite interesting. As it should be with any city, the people are what make it so. The artists, the teachers, the businessmen and women, the news reporters, the authors, the hairdressers, the city workers and more all contribute to the beauty of Windsor, or rather its aesthetic appeal. You see, at first glance, Windsor may seem like a miniature New York. With every coming Monday, the streets are filled with cars and people heading to work or to school. There never ceases to be someone going somewhere. Everyone seems to have a purpose. Everyone seems to know where they want to go and when they have to be there but, no one ever asks “Why?” No one stops and asks “Why am I going there?” I think this question summarizes Windsor quite well. It is the image of success and productivity; Windsorites are always working and moving closer to their final destination, without really knowing where that is.

The Windsor I have just described is what I assume most teenagers see. As a result we have become obsessed with knowing the answer. We need to know “why”. Our incredible desire to understand has become enough to drive some mad and to make others stop caring altogether. However, there are many young people in this city who remain determined to know “why”. For them, understanding is a necessity. These young Windsorites are among the most productive and active people in the community.

Despite such productivity, these young people are constantly bombarded with new ideas and new questions. Not only do these teens fuss over “Why?” but they begin to fuss over “How?” as well. These questions, combined with the overwhelming and perpetual anxiety that comes with planning for their future, are one of the main reasons for the uncertainty among teenagers. Whether it be about what they want or how they feel, it is rare to find a teen who is one hundred percent sure about everything.

Essentially, Windsor is a mess of things, one that greatly affects its youth. Every person is connected and whether this connection is acknowledged or not, it exists. The influence others may have on an individual is immeasurable. This influence is particularly strong among teens. We watch adults, both successful and not so successful, in an attempt to understand the “Why?” and “How?” of their situations and later our own. All this to say, teenagers are impressionable, let us not give them the wrong one.

~ Joy

Ticks and Lyme Disease - A Growing Concern Across Canada

2015-06-15T11:53:00.001-04:00

Lyme-carrying ticks are now found in almost all Canadian provinces. At one time, they were only found in Ontario. They were once limited to areas along the U.S. Border in Southern Ontario such as, Point Pelee and Fort Erie. Now, the organisms can be found everywhere along the border.

Medical professionals are becoming more worried about the spread of the disease and feel there are so many more at-risk Canadians. Read more ...

Symptoms of Lyme disease:

If you suspect that you may have been in contact with a Lyme-carrying tick, seek medical help right away. Tips on avoiding the possibility of contracting the disease include, staying out of areas that ticks thrive in. Check yourself and your pets thoroughly if you have been in any of these areas.

Read more ...

Learn how to remove ticks

This Is What Lyme Disease Feels Like

Personal story by Molly Napolitano

It's a beautiful day -- stunning actually -- but I've been lying in bed since one in the afternoon. I's now almost six and I've wasted yet another day thanks to Lyme disease.

In the last week, my joint pain has been getting worse and worse. Today, it feels like I've been hit by a truck. Every muscle hurts to touch. My hair started falling out in the shower. Most joints in my body are extremely painful. It hurts to open my hands or bend my elbows. It hurts to stand up because my right forefoot screams out in agony. My right knee, both hips and my neck are joining in on the fun. I have a horrible headache, but none of these pains are the worst of it.

I feel like the life has been literally sucked right out of me. The fatigue is overwhelming. I'm so tired that my eyelids struggle staying open --

Read more ...

Written By: Mike Crawford

Gordie Howe International Bridge

2015-06-04T10:32:00.001-04:00

Naming ceremony of the new Windsor-Detroit International Bridge

There has been much controversy over the construction of a new bridge that will connect Windsor and Detroit. One of the biggest concerns, is that Canada is footing the bill for construction on the U.S. side. The money we are contributing will be used to build a Customs plaza. It is alleged that it will be paid back from tolls collected and, won't cost Canadian tax payers a cent but, many believe this is just a dream. Canada already had plans to pay for 95% of the new bridge and then came the decision to move forward, a customs plaza was needed on the American side of the border.

The new bridge is being designed to connect directly to Highway 401 via the Herb Gray Parkway on the Canadian side and to Interstates 75 and 95 in Detroit. The current Ambassador Bridge is connected to city streets which causes a lot of traffic and congestion within the city itself. The design of the new bridge connecting to major highways is expected to improve the flow of freight traffic over the border using six lanes instead of the current four. The Windsor-Detroit border crossing is one of the busiest in North America. At an estimate of 2.5 million trucks, carrying over $100 billion in trade used this corridor in 2012.

The proposal for a new bridge came about in 2004 and in 2007. In 2008 the proposal received approval. Work began in 2011 to construct the Herb Gray Parkway in Windsor, preparing to connect the bridge to highway 401.

Owner of the Ambassador Bridge, Manuel "Matty" Moroun, opposed the idea of building a new bridge. He did everything in his power to sue the Canadian and Michigan Governments in an effort to stop construction on a new bridge. He came up with a proposal of his own, to build a second span to the Ambassador Bridge. In the end, that doesn't do anything to help the current bridge which is 86 years old and is in need of major repairs. It was not made to accommodate the heavy duty freight vehicles that are used today nor, was it originally made for the high volume of traffic that uses it daily. It's estimated that 10,000 trucks use the bridge daily. The second span would also not alleviate the traffic congestion within the city.

More controversy ensues when Moroun begins to buy properties and land in a Historic community within Windsor. It would be where the second span of the Ambassador Bridge would be located. Many of the residents in the community were outraged at the idea and were worried that this would cause their property value to decrease. Many of these properties have houses on them and they are now abandoned and boarded up. They have become targets for vandalism and this has residents concerned. People are getting into these houses illegally and destruction and arson have ensued.

The choice of using the Delray neighbourhood in South Detroit has been under scrutiny. The community doesn't believe that this is an ideal location but, there is room to grow economically there. Warehouses and other businesses can be created to assist with trade that passes over the bridge. Creating more jobs, along with more revenue. It's agreed that citizens focus more on that aspect and, to build up the area and begin to train people to fill those jobs that will be created.

A public-private partnership from Canada will oversee the bridge project and the construction of Inspection plazas, on both sides. The United States has agreed to staff, operate and maintain the Detroit customs plaza. Although, Canada's main decision to pay for the project was so it would benefit Canadian's, doesn't mean they were not thinking of their U.S. neighbours. The span will be of vital importance to communities and businesses on both sides of the border, states Transport Minister, Lisa Raitt.

As it stands now, the Ambassador Bridge is privately owned and used for profit by Moroun and does not benefit everyone but, mainly adds to his own wealth.

The new Gordie Howe International Bridge is proposed to be completed and in service by 2020.

Written By: Mike Crawford

FUNdraiser for HOSPICE

2015-04-11T09:12:00.003-04:00

FUNdraiser for HOSPICE May 9 & 10
Windsor Business Networks along with K.Michael’s Flowers & Gifts, present “Celebrating Life: FUNdraiser for HOSPICE”. This 2 day open-air event is being held at K.Michael’s Flowers & Gifts (4974 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor) from 10 AM - 5 PM.
Barbecue, raffles, face painting, entertainment, sweets. Proceeds to benefit The Hospice of Windsor.
For more information, visit WindsorFundraiser.com

The Future Of Windsor, Ontario.

2015-03-23T16:22:00.002-04:00

Windsor is seriously in need of a make-over throughout the entire city. Efforts are being made to do just that. Financial incentives are being offered to business owners and investors through the Economic Revitalization Community Improvement Plan (CIP). It's not limited to any one area but, the downtown core and the manufacturing sector are the top priorities for the most part. With Windsor being a border city, with the United States on the other side, it is one of the busiest and most important border crossings there is. Thousands of people cross the border both ways for tourism and the transport of goods. Windsor relies greatly on the manufacturing sector, it tops the list. It also relies on health care, education, retail, accommodation and food services. Followed by many smaller sectors. The manufacturing sector experienced a huge loss from the most recent global recessions. Many jobs were lost or wages were cut in an effort to save money and to keep manufacturing companies in Windsor. Unfortunately, manufacturing companies were lost to other countries as it was determined it would be a cheaper route to take. Luckily, other companies were able to upgrade and expand with the decision to be able to stay in the city.

Diversification of the manufacturing sector and the overall economy, will play a big role to strengthen Windsor's local economy and give hope to stop downfalls in the future. The diversity of Windsor's economy will help create more jobs in industries such as warehousing, logistics, professional services, media, tourism, education, health science, and many more opportunities. This diversification will help established manufacturing sectors create jobs in advanced manufacturing such as health care, renewable energy and aerospace. The Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation (WEEDC) is responsible for attracting economic development to the Windsor-Essex region. Their goal is to attract new businesses, strengthen and diversify existing businesses, maintain an attractive environment for business and the economy with the government and community groups. Lastly, they promote the city as a desirable place to invest and live. To reach these goals, WEEDC must concentrate on delivering strategy development, regional branding and data collection services. They must also make an effort to target key industries, create and maintain cross-border relationships, cultivate excellent quality of life and lead the development of a world class infrastructure. These are just a few examples and the CIP directly supports them. Every effort is also made to align the City's efforts with those of the Windsor Essex Economic Development Program. Grants are available to help develop, expand business and to invest and create small businesses. Revitalization of Windsor's downtown core is another project that the city is working on. The main goal is to make it more desirable to residents and to attract tourists. The idea is to create new businesses and improve the overall appearance of the area. Although, other corridors, communities and other areas in decline are included too. The Economic Revitalization Community Improvement Plan will encourage investors to establish and maintain businesses, create new and maintain jobs, and provide goods and services to the public in the downtown area. More people are utilizing downtown with the addition of the St. Clair College campus and, the University campus that is due to be built. The area is already populated with what some say, is an overkill of bars and nightclubs. A variety of restaurants are also available with new ones continuing to open. The city hopes to attract more retail stores and service industries. Clothing stores are slowly moving back into the downtown area and a new medical centre is being built. It's been suggested that small businesses like a butcher, bakery or a small grocery store be opened for the residents of the many apartment buildings that populate the area.

Repairs to buildings and sidewalks will be done as well as, trees, shrubbery and plants. Improvements will be made to the parks along the riverfront to welcome tourists as Windsor becomes a port for an increased number of cruise ships that will be stopping here. The revitalization project is expected to also impact the many festivals and events that take place downtown. New businesses and the current ones will benefit from these activities in a positive way and, the city will benefit from the economic growth from people shopping, eating and supporting businesses in the downtown area. The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) implemented a Commercial Rent Subsidy Program (CRSP). This program is to encourage up to eight businesses per year to fill unoccupied buildings downtown. The DWBIA will contribute 50% of the rent for a building to a successful applicant for a year, up to $625/month. Applicant's must represent the commercial sector and be in an eligible business category. These grants and rent subsidies are the key to a safe and profitable future for the City of Windsor. If you or someone you know is interested in a grant or rent subsidy program, contact the city or visit the city's website for more information and online forms. Written By: Mike Crawford

"Little Tornado Alley" - Windsor, Ontario, Canada

2015-02-24T16:28:00.004-05:00

On June 17, 1946 the third largest tornado in Canadian history hit Windsor, Ontario. It occurred around 6pm in Windsor's Southeast corner, seventeen people were killed and hundreds more were injured. Witnesses said that the tornado lasted only minutes and they estimated it to be 600 feet across the top and about 100 feet across the base.

Tornado in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
June 17, 1946.

The tornado touched down in Michigan and then crossed the river into the Brighton Beach area of Windsor, crossing into South Windsor and then into Northern Sandwich West which is now known as LaSalle. It touched down again in the intersection that is known today as, Walker and Grand Marais roads, barely missing the Windsor Airport. It then touched down in Tecumseh and disappeared over Lake St. Clair. It was determined it was an F4 tornado, causing F5 damage in certain areas and, that it travelled a path of 60 kilometers.

Windsor was then hit again on April 3, 1974. Numerous dangerous storms in the US, dubbed as a "Super Outbreak", created an F3 tornado that touched down in Michigan and again, crossed into Windsor. During the Super Outbreak there were 148 twisters recorded in the US in a 24 hour period. After crossing the river, this tornado touched down in River Canard and headed Northeast. This happened at approximately 8pm.

Tornado in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

April 3, 1964.

Photo of the Windsor Curling Club

It hit the Devonshire Mall where an expansion was taking place. It gnarled steel framing and toppled a crane. Then, heading for the Windsor Curling Club. The Chrysler Blue Broom Bonspiel tournament was going on. One of the last tournaments of the season and the building was packed full of people. The tornado ripped off the roof, collapsed walls and then disappeared.

The tornado left a path of destruction of 22 km long and about 200 metres wide. It was labelled the sixth deadliest tornado in Canadian History. Total damage was estimated at $1.8 million. In total 9 people lost their lives and 30 people were injured in the collapse of the curling club.

Leamington, Ontario, Canada
June 6, 2010

Chaos struck when a tornado hit the Southern part of Essex County, on June 6, 2010, very early in the morning. No one got a good look at the tornado but, the destruction they faced when the sun rose was more than shocking. Residents could not believe what they were seeing and were puzzled and relieved that no one was injured or dead. The town of Leamington and it's 30,000 residents faced downed trees, loss of hydro for days, crushed cars and, severely damaged homes and scattered parts of them around the neighbourhood. The most heavily damaged area was Seacliff Drive located along Lake Erie.

Leamington, Ontario, Canada
June 6, 2010

The tornado was categorized as an F1 tornado in strength. It left a path of destruction 2 kms long. Total damage estimates were close to $90 million for the area. Across Lake Erie, near Toledo, Ohio, a tornado had touched down several hours earlier. It's path nearly 100 metres wide and 16 kms in length. More than 50 homes were destroyed and numerous lives lost and many more injured.

The area between Windsor and Barrie is known as, "Little Tornado Alley." Ontario has an estimated a dozen or so tornadoes every year. The real "Tornado Alley" located in the

US between the Rocky and Appalachian Mountains, sees about 500 tornadoes a year.

Near Windsor Airport
June 17, 1946

With Windsor being the thunderstorm capital of Canada, there is always the possibility of tornadoes here. The most active period being between late May and early August, most often during the afternoon hours.

Another shot of the Windsor Curling Club
April 3, 1964

Fortunately, we have a much better warning system in place. Credible sources such as Environment Canada's Weather Office and the Weather Network, are now able to track and, relay weather more efficiently, which you should check regularly during bad weather. It's advised you have a plan in place to protect your family during extreme weather and, keep a survival kit on hand.

Written By: Mike Crawford

Media and Youth

2015-02-01T23:31:00.001-05:00

Over the course of time, technology has evolved and improved immensely. In doing so, it has altered the lives of billions of people worldwide. Thanks to technology, people of all kinds are able to connect and communicate. Evidently, the evolution and advancement of technology has its perks. However, what effect does this evolution have on society? What effect will it have on future generations?

Social media has been and will continue to be very important to this generation. It seems people pride themselves on how many friends or followers they have on websites like Twitter and Facebook. This is not necessarily a bad thing. In gaining followers and friends on the internet, people are establishing connections which allow them to participate in social networking and keep up on current events. For example, important news and events are often posted to Twitter before being broadcasted on television.

Since today’s technology has so many perks, it is estimated 2 billion people use the Internet each day. There is no denying the effect it has on youth, a 2013 study states that teenagers are viewing friendship, intimacy and social interaction differently. Young people feel sufficient social support by having networks of online friends, even if they may never see them in person. In this, many young people no longer feel the need to go out and meet people or experience life outside of school at all for that matter. If teens are not at home on the computer, they are somewhere else on their phones or other wireless electronic devices. This can cause many problems such as a lack of exercise causing weight gain and other health problems and difficulty communicating with others in person. Needless to say, society’s dependence on technology and social media has become a problem for current and future generations.

Next, not only does social media affect youths ability to go out, participate and communicate with others, it affects their perception of who they are and who they are supposed to be. Before popular social networking sites made their debut, celebrities were able to influence youth via magazines and television. Now, not only are those more accessible, but they have become more common and influential. Sadly, celebrities do not always promote acceptable behaviour and positivity and, even when they do, young people may misinterpret or compare themselves to those celebrities. As a result, this generation may view themselves as inadequate and become anxious or experience other emotional problems due to social pressures and standards set by celebrities in the media.

How can we fix this? How can we help young people find a balance between technology and face-to-face social interaction? The answer is simple, get your child involved in extracurricular activites, allow them to participate in life, have them do things that do not always involve using their phones or their electronics but that encourage the use of their social skills. As for the effect that social media has on young peoples’ self esteem, reinforce the idea that your child is enough, let them know that they are worth it and that they are capable of achieving great things just like the celebrities they like to compare themselves to. There is no reason for your child to feel inferior to someone in the media unless you allow them to. Throughout your child’s development, they will look to you for advice and reassurance. It is up to you, as a parent, to give it to them.

Canadian Mental Health Association and Bell's Let's Talk Program

2015-01-27T21:00:00.001-05:00

We all have Mental Health and it impacts each and every one of us. Mental Health is the absence of illness or a condition. It allows us to face challenges, and enjoy our lives. People can have positive mental health or, they can have poor mental health without having a condition. Mental Health is not fixed and can be influenced by your workplace, our experiences and other experiences such as social and economic conditions.

Just like physical illness, mental illness can be caused by a variety of reasons. People are still afraid of and still don't fully understand mental illnesses. On a positive note, people are becoming more educated which lessens their fears. It was hardly ever talked about so, many people suffered through it alone and were left to cope anyway that they could on their own. Bi-polar disorder, anxiety, depression, eating disorders are just a few of the many mental illnesses as well as, addictions. The good thing is, all mental illness can be treated. Medication prescribed by a Psychiatrist, along with therapy and counselling are the usual steps taken toward recovery.

Community agencies, health clinics and hospitals offer programs and services that meet your needs. If you feel that you could use some help with your mental health, here in Windsor, we have the Canadian Mental Health Association. They will get you on the road to recovery. You can get all the education you and those around you need. Of course, if you feel like you are in a crisis situation, call 911.

The CMHA was founded in 1918 and is one of the oldest voluntary organizations in Canada. They have representation in every province and territory from urban to rural communities. The CMHA continues to change to meet society's evolving mental health. Through a network of staff and volunteers, the CMHA is able to fulfill their vision of mentally healthy people in a mentally healthy society.

Windsor and Essex county were in dire need of mental health services. As people were discharged from provincial institutions, they had no where to go to get the help they needed. They also needed somewhere that was local, close to their families and homes. With next to nothing for funds and the hard work and dedication of the original Board of Directors, the Windsor-Essex CMHA was formed.

Other organizations are available to assist you also. Mental Health Connections, Community Crisis Centre and for kids and youth, there is Children First and We R Kids to name a few. Also, more workplaces are getting involved with employee mental health and have opted to have counsellors available.

Tomorrow, January 28, 2015 is Bell's Let's Talk yearly program to break the silence on mental illness and support mental health across Canada. Talking is the first step to change, awareness, acceptance and action. The Let's Talk program was created as a way to raise funds to improve programs and services that allow people with mental illness to get the care and support they need. Get to know the facts and take your first step to a better understanding of mental illness.

On January 28,
Let’s Talk

Bell will donate 5¢ more to mental health initiatives for every:

Text message sent*
Mobile & long distance call made*
Tweet using #BellLetsTalk
Share of the Facebook image

To find out more about mental health and the Bell Let's Talk program, visit their site at http://letstalk.bell.ca/en/

Written By: Mike Crawford

What You May Not Know About Drones

2015-01-22T21:11:00.001-05:00

Its becoming more apparent that Drones are all the rage. They are very versatile. They can hover in mid-air, do back flips and are able to fly into small places. They are equipped to carry small electronic gadgets among other items, depending on the size and weight of the cargo. Most popular item to carry is a camera. You can get into places that aren't easy to get to otherwise. Drones were originally built specially for the Military, allowing soldiers to see what was going on out in the battlefields from above where it wouldn't be so easily spotted. Before you run out and buy one, there are laws pertaining to owning and flying a drone, especially when it comes to privacy.

So what is a Drone? A Drone is a unmanned aircraft, meaning there is no on-board pilot. They vary in size, speed, form, as well as, many more attributes. They can be bought in stores as models and they can be built the same size of a plane. The larger Drones are mostly built to send to war.

Drones come in many shapes and forms. They serve different purposes, some are used depending on the altitude that is needed to reach and their endurance. Some look like smof all helicopters and airplanes. They can even look like birds and other animals. Some are even the size of regular manned aircraft and can stay in the air for days. They are constantly evolving, getting smaller, smarter and cheaper.

The use of Drones is beginning to expand more into civil aviation rather than for military purposes. Government organization, private sector entities and amateur users are all eager to fly their Drones for many different uses in domestic skies. Domestic operations are very limited in Canada because of licensing approvals and safety parameters by Transport Canada.

Use of Drones, also know as UVAs are fairly restricted in the private sector. They are becoming more of a practical for commercial businesses and also be used for profitable uses. They can be used for communication and -sale broadcast services, infrastructure inspection, natural resource monitoring as well as used for real estate agents to sell properties. These are just some of the activities under the private sector. The popularity is expanding as the regulations change and are updated as UAVs.

In the Public sector, Drones are used for different law incidents. They have become a useful tool to take aerial photos of accident scenes and make it so much easier to chase and track people easier that by doing it by foot. They also aide in the safety of people that may be in anger if someone is tracking them down, hoping to get to the innocent to get them to safety.

The popularity of Drones for Recreational use has been growing faster than expected. The cost of them has been slowly decreasing but, they are still costly enough that there hasn't been an explosion of people purchasing. Transport Canada and the FFA are working on laws and regulations regarding small model aircrafts. They are becoming smaller, they can fit in the palm of your hand and can carry cameras that can take still pictures as well as streaming video that ends up on social sites.

UVAs are regulated under two different licensing streams. Transport Canada is the civil regulating authority and the Department of National Defense is the military authority. For the most part, anything regarding regulations will be thoroughly explained for the Public sector and the private sector, Transport Canada is responsible for establishing, managing, and developing safety and security standard and civil aviation in Canada. Civil operations include law enforcement, scientific research, or use by private sector companies for commercial purposes. Domestic or foreign military UAVS come under the authority of DND when operating in civil airspace or military restricted airspace.

Use for civil or commercial purposes are only authorized to fly with a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) issued by transport Canada. No person shall operate an unmanned vehicle in flight except in accordance with a Special Flight Operations Certificate or an Air Operator Certificates. SFOCs are generally short term and used on a case by case basis however, long term or blanket authorities can be issued for situations for those who have received a number of SFOCs in the past. To be issued and SFOC, the operator must be able to demonstrate they are equipped to safely operate the UAV in the desired environment. There may be restrictions where the UAV can not be operated over or within a built up city or town, or within a certain distance. They may be denied operations around noise sensitive areas such as churches, hospitals, schools and parks.

The main concern regarding Drones is privacy. With the wide range of technology that can be mounted on them allows them to be used for many reason. The most popular attachment is a camera. There are different privacy laws depending on the use of cameras and what information they are collecting with them. Of course, if you are a hobby photographer, you have to be more careful of where you operate your UAV compared to a UAV being used by law enforcement to gather information. With the small size of some and their flexibility, they can reach into places where you might think would be a great place to explore but, you could be asking for trouble as it could be considered trespassing. Always check rules and regulations if you are not sure and get the proper certificates that you need. Check to see if you have to file a flight plan and to see if you need to have to be formally trained to be a pilot. Not doing this could result in fines.

With the popularity of Drones exploding over the last few years, the laws have not been updated. The same laws being used date back to 1996. Recreational Drones are still classified under the same laws as the military are. They were all the same that far back. Today, there are hundreds of different types of UAVs and the regulations are being updated to match.

Written By:

Mike Crawford

Keyboarding: Proper Form for Increased Speed

2015-01-09T09:42:00.000-05:00

Typing or keyboarding, is a skill that is required in many of todays jobs. What was once a predominately office related skill utilized by secretaries, is now required and applied to many jobs in all sectors and industries.

To increase productivity and keyboarding speed, requires proper form and muscle memory. Once you memorize the keyboard, develop or adjust digit positioning and reach, you will create muscle memory that will put your typing skills into auto-pilot when you're faced with a project at the computer.

To begin, sit on a comfortable chair, back straight and feet flat on the floor. Place your fingers lightly on the home keys. Fingers should be slightly rounded. This is the resting position even when you're just staring into space wondering what you should type next.

Home keys

Left hand: A, S, D, F

Right hand: J, K, L, Semicolon

Once you're comfortable, begin typing this pangram several times as shown.

the quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog

Once you can do this at least three times with fewer than 3 mistakes, move onto capitalizing the first letter of each word. Again, type the phrase repeatedly until you can do it three consecutive times with fewer than three errors.

The Quick Brown Fox Jumps Over The Lazy Dog

In no time at all, you will be touch typing all your documents for business or personal use, like a pro.

Gone Series: Slap in Our Collective Face

2014-12-28T20:43:00.002-05:00

OPINION

"Windsorites Embrace Fort McMurray"
- Carolyn Thompson

Gone Series in the Windsor Star I'm not sure why The Windsor Star is running a huge advertising campaign about the great life you can have if you leave Windsor. Why would they go out of their way to track down people who left this city, to create this sort of series to be published in a newspaper (and online) and subscribed to by people still living in Windsor. What's their motivation? Are they looking for the best interest of the future of Windsorites or twisting the knife a little bit deeper in our wounds? Who is Carolyn Thompson? She is a self described Canadian data and visual journalist. Is she from Windsor? All I know of her is whatever I glean from the words she writes in stories I've read. Although her work appears in many publications including the Windsor Star, her heart is not in Windsor and with this "Gone" series, she seems to have gone out of her way to pour salt in our collective wounds.

It's puzzling that Windsor Star would allow this series in their paper. A series that belittles our community, discourages our youth from pursuing their dreams locally and encourages mass immigration to Fort McMurray. In looking over Carolyn Thompsons writings, I noticed glowing reports about Fort McMurray as reflected in her articles, "Recreation in Fort McMurray", "Camp Life in Fort McMurray", and "Shopping in Fort McMurray".

As a writer, I'm sure she is effective otherwise she would not be getting paid for her efforts. My qualm is with the series itself. Instead of using it to hurt the feelings of the remaining Windsorites and our efforts to move forward, it could have been published in Fort McMurray as a series for that region - a promotional tool to boost the egos of people in the region. Maybe call it #FortMcMurraysNewWorkforce

Incidentally, there is a video on the Gone series page that is sponsored by WFCU - WINDSOR FMILY CREDIT UNION. I'm not sure if they are aware they are paying to advertise on a video that is encouraging people to leave our region and take their money with them.

Windsor Family Credit Union
- Advertising an article encouraging people to move out of Windsor.

The Gone Series: December 27

GONE: ‘I GET REALLY ANGRY WHENEVER I THINK ABOUT IT’

#WindsorGone: Your stories GONE: ‘BEGGARS CAN’T BE CHOOSERS’ GONE: ‘WHAT YOU’RE GIVING UP IN WINDSOR IS LIVING PAYCHEQUE TO PAYCHEQUE’ GONE: ‘WE HAVE A DREAM AND WE WANTED TO TAKE THE SHOT’
I'm a Windsorite that is proud of my community and the hard work going into pulling it through to a better future. For myself, I would never subscribe to Windsor Star in paper form or online if this is the way they let their writers treat this community. Everyone else can decide for themselves if they want to support a company that hires people who subscribe to the idea that we are a failed community.

WestJets Elaborate Surprise - Unbelievable!

2014-12-26T18:25:00.003-05:00

With the help of 175 volunteers, WestJet put on an elaborate surprise for 250 Calgary bound passengers from two flights out of Toronto Pearson International Airport and John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. Watch what happens

Boxing Day Deals 2014

2014-12-26T08:23:00.001-05:00

Boxing Day sales are upon us. Today is one of those days you stay in your home if crowds and traffic jams aren't your thing. For everyone else who likes the after Christmas shopping hustle, we welcome your sale shares in the comments section or on our Facebook page to let everyone know where the real deals are at.

The Lowest Gas Prices in Windsor & Area

2014-12-19T08:10:00.000-05:00

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
90.4	Costco	4411 Walker Rd near Legacy Park Dr	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:48 AM
92.6	Pioneer	4560 Howard Ave near LakeTrail Dr	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:23 AM
92.9	Esso	1527 Provincial Rd & 6th Concession Rd	Windsor	Dec 18, 5:58 PM
93.8	Esso	1 Wilkinson Dr & Erie St N	Leamington	Dec 19, 3:18 AM
93.9	Canadian Tire	81 Talbot St W & Albert St	Leamington	Dec 19, 7:00 AM
93.9	Canadian Tire	421 Sandwich St S near Pickering Dr	Amherstburg	Dec 19, 6:07 AM
93.9	Shell	9 Sandwich St N & Alma St	Amherstburg	Dec 19, 6:07 AM
93.9	Flying J	19325 Essex CR-42 & Richardson Sideroad	Tilbury	Dec 19, 4:10 AM
93.9	7-Eleven	138 Erie St S & Oak St E	Leamington	Dec 19, 3:17 AM
93.9	Superstore	201 Talbot St E near CR-33	Leamington	Dec 18, 9:34 PM

Ontario Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Windsor Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
90.4	Costco	4411 Walker Rd near Legacy Park Dr	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:48 AM
92.6	Pioneer	4560 Howard Ave near LakeTrail Dr	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:23 AM
92.9	Esso	1527 Provincial Rd & 6th Concession Rd	Windsor	Dec 18, 5:58 PM
93.9	Husky	4040 CR-46 & Webster Dr	Windsor	Dec 18, 4:41 PM
95.9	Shell	1410 Huron Church Rd & Tecumseh Rd W	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:15 AM
97.5	Esso	5300 Walker Rd S & Olympia Dr	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:50 AM
97.9	XTR	968 Ottawa St & Langlois Ave	Windsor	Dec 18, 10:57 AM
99.6	Pioneer	3472 Walker Rd & Lappan Ave	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:45 AM
99.6	Pioneer	3124 Jefferson Blvd near Queen Elizabeth Dr	Windsor	Dec 19, 7:36 AM
99.6	Petro Line	6960 Wyandotte St E & St Rose Ave	Windsor	Dec 19, 6:03 AM

Windsor Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Amherstburg Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
93.9	Canadian Tire	421 Sandwich St S near Pickering Dr	Amherstburg	Dec 19, 6:07 AM
93.9	Shell	9 Sandwich St N & Alma St	Amherstburg	Dec 19, 6:07 AM
99.9	Edgewater Gas	1130 Front Rd N & Canal St	Amherstburg	Dec 19, 6:15 AM

Amherstburg Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Belle River Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
99.9	UPI Energy	392 Notre Dame St & 9th St	Belle River	Dec 18, 8:00 PM

Belle River Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Essex Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
94.9	Petro-Canada	387 Maidstone Ave E & Fairview Ave E	Essex	Dec 18, 5:07 PM
94.9	Esso	196 Talbot St N & Maidstone Ave W	Essex	Dec 18, 5:07 PM
94.9	Canadian Tire	21 Talbot St S & Arthur Ave	Essex	Dec 18, 5:07 PM

Essex Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Kingsville Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
93.9	Mac's	1568 Seacliff Dr & Union Ave	Kingsville	Dec 18, 7:31 PM
94.8	Arner Stop	1958 CR-20 & Arner Townline	Kingsville	Dec 18, 11:01 PM
98.9	Esso	341 Main St E near Jasperson Dr	Kingsville	Dec 18, 11:16 PM
99.5	Division Gas	1727 Division Rd N near Sandy Brook Way	Kingsville	Dec 18, 8:33 AM
99.9	Shell	84 Division Rd N near Pulford St	Kingsville	Dec 18, 8:33 AM

Kingsville Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

LaSalle Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
109.9	Petro Line	9350 Malden Rd & N Townline Rd	LaSalle	Dec 18, 3:12 PM
94.7	XTR	4205 Huron Church Line Rd & Disputed Rd	LaSalle	Dec 18, 2:25 PM
99.7	Mac's	751 Front Rd near Bouffard Rd	LaSalle	Dec 19, 6:23 AM
99.9	Petro-Canada	1915 Front Rd & International Ave	LaSalle	Dec 19, 6:22 AM
99.9	GOCO	2596 Front Rd & Martin Ln	LaSalle	Dec 19, 5:32 AM

LaSalle Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Leamington Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
93.8	Esso	1 Wilkinson Dr & Erie St N	Leamington	Dec 19, 3:18 AM
93.9	Canadian Tire	81 Talbot St W & Albert St	Leamington	Dec 19, 7:00 AM
93.9	7-Eleven	138 Erie St S & Oak St E	Leamington	Dec 19, 3:17 AM
93.9	Superstore	201 Talbot St E near CR-33	Leamington	Dec 18, 9:34 PM
93.9	Petro-Canada	160 Erie St N near Wilkinson Dr	Leamington	Dec 18, 5:48 PM
93.9	UPI Energy	468 Hwy 77 near Mersea Rd 5	Leamington	Dec 18, 2:39 PM
94.9 Cash	Johnny's Gas	448 Talbot St W & Crestview Rd	Leamington	Dec 18, 5:10 PM
95.9	Shell	40 Seacliff Dr W & Lombardy Ln	Leamington	Dec 19, 7:33 AM
96.0	Mike's Gas & Variety	51 Oak St E & Ontario St	Leamington	Dec 19, 3:17 AM
96.9	Shell	407 Talbot St W near Crestview Rd	Leamington	Dec 18, 5:11 PM

Leamington Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Maidstone Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
100.9	Petro-Canada	7148 Hwy 3 near Sexton Sideroad	Maidstone	Dec 19, 7:46 AM
99.9	Esso	2 CR-46 & Manning Rd	Maidstone	Dec 19, 7:36 AM

Maidstone Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Tecumseh Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
100.3	Petro-Canada	12821 Tecumseh Rd E near Green Valley Dr	Tecumseh	Dec 19, 1:05 AM
93.9	UPI Energy	12284 CR-42 & Lesperance Rd	Tecumseh	Dec 18, 5:19 PM
99.5	Pioneer	13366 CR-42 & Manning Rd	Tecumseh	Dec 19, 4:09 AM
99.9	Petro-Canada	3025 Manning Rd & CR-42	Tecumseh	Dec 19, 4:09 AM
99.9	Petro-Canada	13345 Tecumseh Rd E & Manning Rd	Tecumseh	Dec 18, 8:21 PM
99.9	Shell	274 CR-42 & Elmstead Rd	Tecumseh	Dec 18, 5:19 PM

Tecumseh Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

Tilbury Gas Prices

Price	Station	Address	City	Time
100.6	Canadian Tire	Hwy 401 Eastbound near Queens Line (exit 63)	Tilbury	Dec 18, 9:07 AM
93.9	Flying J	19325 Essex CR-42 & Richardson Sideroad	Tilbury	Dec 19, 4:10 AM
95.9	UPI Energy	11 Mill St E & Dufferin St	Tilbury	Dec 19, 5:23 AM
95.9	Mac's	90 Queen St N & Mill St E	Tilbury	Dec 19, 5:22 AM
95.9	Esso	3613 Queen's Line & Wheeler Line	Tilbury	Dec 18, 8:33 AM
97.9	Shell	2 Mill St W & Queen St N	Tilbury	Dec 19, 5:22 AM
98.9	Canadian Tire	Hwy 401 Westbound near Queens Line (exit 63)	Tilbury	Dec 18, 8:32 AM
99.9	Esso	53 Mill St W near Lyon Ave N	Tilbury	Dec 18, 11:17 PM

Tilbury Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

From Windsorite.ca

For gas price updates in your area, go to http://www.ontariogasprices.com

Are you an "Accidental" American? The IRS might think you are.........

2014-12-16T18:40:00.000-05:00

As we all know, tax season is just around the corner.

While there are many U.S. citizens living here in Windsor, there are many who don't know that they are exposed to the U.S. for taxes because they aren't aware that they are considered by the IRS to be "U.S. Persons". We all know that U.S. citizens and U.S. residents are U.S. persons. The rules have changed about who is considered a U.S. resident, as well as a U.S. citizen, especially when it comes to taxation. By the way, if you have been granted a green card but have not surrendered it, you are a U.S. person, whether or not you're working there, and are thus liable for taxation in the U.S.

This question is of particular importance to that hardy Canadian breed.......the Snowbirds. If you stay too long in the U.S., you are considered to be a U.S. resident and therefore exposed to U.S. taxation. The Snowbirds who own property in the U.S. are most certainly facing taxation in the U.S.

This question concerns U.S. citizens living in Canada who have investments in Canada. Some of them are considered by the U.S. to be taxable in the U.S. Do you know which ones are and which ones aren't? The U.S. government recognizes some Canadian investments such as RRSP and RRIF as being tax sheltered. They do NOT recognize TFSA, RESP or RDSP as being tax sheltered.

Does your tax preparer know about your U.S. status? Are they aware of what to do if you need to file a U.S. return? Does your tax preparer know what to look for in your investments to determine if any tax needs to be paid to the U.S?

Do you want to know more?

Mary Arif

(519) 996-9884

mary.arif@gmail.com

The New City By-law Regarding Garbage. Is it making a difference?

2014-12-10T22:23:00.003-05:00

As of July 1st, 2014, a new by-law was implemented where all your garbage must be in a city approved, hard sided container with a lid. The idea of the new by-law, is to hopefully reduce the number of animals and rodents that come to feed on loose garbage and garbage bags laying around.

For the month of July, the city was letting the by-law slide and were not issuing fines but, they would not take your garbage. If your garbage was not picked up, you were to call 311 and, they would send someone from the city to your residence to explain why your garbage was not collected and go over the rules with you.

If there was anyone you saw not following the by-law, you were encouraged to call 311 and report them. Especially, if their garbage was getting torn apart by animals and it was littering your property or, properties around you.

Here is what the City requires;

Acceptable Garbage Containers

Metal or Plastic Cans

Maximum 125 litre/30 gallon capacity
Maximum 78 cm/31" tall, 50 cm/20" diameter
2 handles and a water-tight lid
No loose garbage inside container
Collectors will not reach into pails to pull bags out. This is unsafe as it could injure workers.

Roll-Out Cart for Hydraulic Lift

Carts must have a lower bar configuration 18" from the ground and an upper lift attachment that is 33" from the ground. [See video under Related Links].
Both the bar and the upper attachment must be in good condition.
Roll-out cart will only be collected by use of mechanical cart mechanism placed on all garbage trucks.
No manual lifting of bags out of roll-out cart due to needle stick injuries, cuts from sharp objects or other dangers.
Only North American style carts meeting ANSI-B standards can be collected
Capacity limit 363 litre (96 gallon) or 181.5 litre (48 gallon) approved roll-out carts
There are many different types of oversized garbage carts (greater than 125L or 30 gal) offered on the market today. Not all can be emptied by the collectors.
No loose garbage inside cart

Plastic Bags

Bags must be in a hard-sided container as of July 1, 2014

Never put glass or sharp objects in bags.

Unacceptable Containers:

Cardboard Boxes - these should always be recycled or used for yard waste. *Exception - Broken glass should be placed in a cardboard box and closed/sealed/taped shut and clearly marked on the outside of the box "broken glass" and placed out with your regular garbage.
Oversized and overweight containers (+20kg/45lbs).
Many wheeled containers that are sold are too big and when filled are too heavy.

It's not listed in the by-law guidelines but, you have to have a lid on the containers while being stored until collection day. When you put your garbage out to the curb, you can remove the lid. Also, do not use bungee cords or ropes or anything that will cause the lid to flip up potentially injuring the garbage collector.

Now, in my opinion, from what I have seen in my neighbourhood, our garbage is collected usually around midnight. If the city is allowing us to leave the lids off at the curb for pick up, isn't that contradicting the law? Most of the animals scrounging through the garbage, are nocturnal and will be out getting into or knocking over the containers before collection.

I also wonder what is going to happen at Christmas when the volume of garbage is more than usual. Maybe not at all residences but, it will be increased at some.

My main concern, from what I have noticed, is more and more garbage bags being dumped in allies and empty lots. I don't think there are many people the know this but, if an alley butts up against your property, you are responsible for keeping the alley clean up to the middle. The other side of the alley is cleaned by the person on the other side.

From the City's website it states:

"Every owner or occupant of land which abuts on an alley is responsible to keep to the middle line of the alley, clear of all WEEDS, LITTER and other rubbish. Any person found in violation of this Chapter is liable to a fine of not more than $5,000.00.
If you ARE NOT currently complying with the above, we request your co-operation in doing so in the future.
If you ARE maintaining the alley in a sanitary and safe condition we thank you for your concurrence with the Municipal Code.
If a neighbour is not complying and is creating an unsightly/unhealthy condition please call 311 to arrange for an investigation by the Compliance and Enforcement Unit of the Building Department.

I don't know if this law was really followed too often but, I think it should be now that people are dumping their garbage and rubbish anywhere they can. As of now, I think it's just going to keep piling up more than I have already seen. Who is going to clean it? Should the city pitch in?

What do you think of the new by-law? Is it making a difference in your area?

This is a picture I took on December 12, 2014. I walk down this alley every day and it gets worse every day it seems.

Written By: Mike Crawford

ReMax Annual Housing Report: Windsor Essex

2014-12-10T13:03:00.000-05:00

WINDSOR - ESSEX
Windsor-Essex’s fall housing market recovered by the end of 2014 from a long winter and delayed spring. Increasing consumer confidence from buyers and sellers buoyed the housing market as it returned to its norm after a slow year. Year-over-year sales data indicated that the market remained stable, as sales in 2014 were very similar to 2013.The average residential sale price in Windsor- Essex County increased five per cent in 2014, rising to approximately $192,200 from $183,518 in 2013.

There was a slight inventory shortage
in 2014, and the housing market in the coming year is expected to experience a similar shortage. However, if demand for new homes continues to grow, pressure should be taken off of the resale market, motivating more resale properties to come on the market.Windsor-Essex is slowly recovering from a larger inventory shortage in 2013 and it is expected to require another year to fully balance.

First-time buyer activity has increased due to favourable interest rates. Affordability in the region is good for this demographic and increased affordability because of low interest rates mean that first-time buyers can purchase homes with higher value than the lower range. As such, the greatest market activity is
in properties resting near the average price range in Windsor-Essex, between $100,000 and $200,000.

Consistency and balance should characterize Windsor-Essex’s housing market throughout 2015. Property values are expected to increase roughly five per cent in 2015. New homes continue to earn market share and often come with much higher price tags. In fact, compared to previous years, the market has seen

Average Residential Sale Price, Windsor/Essex

AVERAGE RESIDENTIAL SALE PRICE

more homes selling in higher price ranges. Upper-end properties are selling more quickly and easily in Windsor-Essex than they ever have before.Twenty-five homes listed at $400,000 and above have sold to date in 2014, much more than in previous years. Many attribute this to a broadly- accepted positive sentiment both buyers and sellers have towards the market. A strong economy, favourable interest rates and encouraging industry expansion in Windsor-Essex have put the market on the rebound and are motivating buyers and sellers to engage with the market.

View Full report: http://download.remax.ca/PR/HMO2015/Report/OutlookKitchLonWind.pdf

Future of Ojibway Shores

2014-12-10T08:39:00.000-05:00

Ojibway Shores

Ojibway Prairie Complex, located in the west end of Windsor, Ontario occupies 350 hectares of forest, ponds and prairies and is home to a wild variety of creatures.

Phil Roberts, environmentalist of Windsor/ Essex County talks about what is in store for this nature reserve.

Scroll to watch the video

Yes, it really is, but.......

2014-12-02T11:36:00.000-05:00

Today, I am pulling another set of letters from the financial alphabet soup.

TFSA -- Tax Free Savings Account

The Tax Free Savings Account allows Canadians to set money aside to grow tax-free, starting at age 18, if you have a Social Insurance Number and live in Canada.

The TFSA is a registered vehicle, and therefore monitored by Canada Revenue Agency. There is a contribution limit every year, but if it's growing tax free, it is in everyone's interest to use it. You will accumulate TFSA room every year since 2009, even if you don't use it.

Ideally, the TFSA should be used for medium-term or long-term savings. Unfortunately, the banks have hijacked this great idea and pushed it on the public without really teaching about the power of this vehicle. How many people out there have a TFSA at their bank and are simply using it as a savings account? Too many. Too many people put money in their TFSA at the bank and then take it out when they need it. This affects their contribution room and costs them fees. Did the banks explain this part of it? Most likely not. (We would have been better off if it had been called a "tax free savings PLAN".)

If you want more information about the real power of the TFSA, contact me.

Mary

mary.arif@gmail.com

How Shopping Local Will Benefit Us And The City.

2014-11-24T13:23:00.002-05:00

This article has been moved to its permanent home, here

Depression: Tips to make it through the holidays.

2014-11-18T16:52:00.001-05:00

For some people, the approaching Christmas Holidays are the most dreadful time of the year. While others get excited at the thought of family visiting and gathering for a huge feast, exchanging gifts and reminiscing about Christmas past. They get right into making sure that everything is perfect, the decorations get hung and the lights strung through the trees. That the dinner is all planned and the wine is bought. They have organized everything down to the tiniest details.

This time of year is very stressful and depressing for many people. It's often referred to as "the holiday blues." The thought of shopping for the perfect gifts, arranging to hold the holiday dinner or, making plans to travel to another family member's home. It can be overwhelming. Then there are the company parties, Christmas Eve gatherings and other social activities. The thought of having to be social or, leaving your comfort space, picking out something nice to wear so you fit in. You worry about the cost of everything. It's hard to make ends meet on a regular day and now you have to worry about providing a special Christmas for your children and family. You feel as though you have to keep up with the Joneses. You might be afraid that your children will get teased because they got a doll instead of a laptop. All that adds more anxiety to what you are already feeling and may make you feel defeated.

This may just be a temporary depression from the pressure you are putting on yourself to have a fairytale Christmas. For others, they struggle with depression everyday, and have for years. For them, it is beyond overwhelming. They can barely plan their day to day activities let alone plan for something in advance. Organization has pretty much gone out the window. Where do they start first? What to do next? How will I get everything done? It is very frustrating when you can't focus on the tasks at hand. You feel like crawling under the stairs and hiding until the New Year passes.

The worst part, that makes matters worse, is knowing that you should be enjoying this time of year. You're family tells you, your friends, people at the check-outs in stores telling you to enjoy your Christmas, even the happy Christmas shows and commercials on TV. Hearing it once or twice is daunting enough but, when you see it or hear it everywhere, it's a real downer.

If your depression is so bad people start to notice, or, you don't feel the slightest joy from anything and can't be bothered. You should seek professional help immediately.

There are some tips and tricks to help you survive the holidays. You just have to be open to trying them. One of the most important to do, cut yourself some slack. Don't force yourself to be happy and smiling, let your real emotions out. Express to your family how you are feeling and that you are not up to holding the dinner party this year. They will understand. Don't be afraid to spend less. Appreciate what you have and stop worrying about what you don't have.

Forget about getting the perfect gift. Give a gift card or certificate, the recipient will be happy they can get what they want. Forget about an expensive suit or dress. People will be happy that you even showed up and they get to see you. Shake things up and spend Christmas with someone other than your family, or if you can, go on vacation, relax and do what you want to. Avoid consuming too much alcohol as it acts as a depressant and can make people more open in a negative way.

Get yourself outside. Exercise, sun and fresh air will get your endorphin levels up. Those are the body's natural antidepressants. Shovel the driveway or, your neighbour's driveway. Play in the snow with your children or a pet. Just 20 mins a day outside has proven to greatly help your health and your mental health.

Avoid family conflict. If you know there is someone you are not fond of, stay away from them. Don't worry about them at all. If you are too busy thinking about them, you are missing out on things that are positive. If they insist on approaching you, tell them nicely how you feel and that you would rather not socialize with them. Excuse yourself and take a break from them in another room or, step outside.

Talk to people that support you either in person or on the phone. Express your emotions, tell them what's going on. Even if they don't have a solution and just listen, it will be off your chest and you focus more on the positive.

Get out into the community and volunteer. Help a Santa hand out gifts or help out at a homeless shelter. You will feel better knowing that you were able to help someone and make them happy.It will give you a sense of accomplishment.

This is just a fraction of what emotional upsets occur to people during the holidays. There are numerous other resources to help you through the holidays when you need a little support. There are crisis hotlines, plenty of online information, counselors and organizations there to help as well as doctors. What works for one person, may not work for another but, there is help that is suited toward your situation.

Written By: Mike Crawford

Understanding Teenagers in Windsor-Essex

2014-11-16T18:11:00.000-05:00

There is no denying that the teenage years are complicated. Always have been, always will be. However, as a teenager myself, I have noticed significant differences between my life now and my parents’ teenage years. We have different opinions, ideas and difficulties and it often causes problems between us. I feel as if that is completely normal for people from such different generations but I also feel that it would be nice if adults could get a better understanding of teenagers.
I think that it is safe to say that all teens, regardless of their generation, are a mixture of sarcasm, ignorance, melancholy, happiness and intelligence. Then again, I believe that my generation is very different in comparison to those of the past. It seems we either care too much or too little, there is almost no in between. I know of people who could not care less about their future, with little or no aspirations. I know of people who try their hardest every day, who hope and who dream of great things. However, I rarely encounter people who have found a balance between the two. It’s difficult. Finding the balance is hard because there is so much pressure put on teens and young adults to achieve greatness. There are those who thrive under pressure and those who lose interest and stop caring altogether. So, finding a happy medium is easier said than done.
Also, I think that it’s important to let teenagers know that they are loved and accepted. That’s really all they want, even if it’s subconsciously. Nowadays, it has become a trend for them to openly express their negative feelings and to share them not only with those closest to them, but complete strangers as well. This leads them to focus their sadness and dwell on unimportant, insignificant matters. Focusing on such things can cause several problems for teens individually and socially. Sadness is one of, if not the most common emotion felt by teenagers and that is definitely not okay. So, it is important for parents and adults alike to communicate with their teens and for them to acknowledge the difficulties that their teen may be experiencing.
Teens may be reluctant to reach out for help when needed. They seek to feel independent and free. This is perfectly fine and some teenagers may even learn a thing or two by living without guidance. It is good for teens to be exposed to new things as long as they can benefit from them. Then again, evidently, teens can also be easily exposed to things that will affect them negatively such as drugs, alcohol and fighting. It’s becoming easier and easier for teens to access and do such things. In Windsor-Essex, I can confidently say that most, if not all teens have at least experimented with drugs and/or alcohol. Therefore, it is important to set boundaries and confront teenagers about their behaviour. As they are reluctant to ask for help, I think that it is up to adults to reach out to teens. Otherwise, I fear that the situation will only get worse and that the future generations will be the ones to suffer the consequences of our irresponsible actions.
Overall, I think that it is essential that adults have at least a little bit of understanding when it comes to teenagers. After all, they are those who will pave the way for future generations. Even if they may be complicated, they are essential to the development of our society and we must treat them as such. It is important that adults lessen the pressure put on teens to be perfect and exceed their expectations, communicate and acknowledge possible problems and set boundaries for their teens. In doing these things, I am confident that relationships between adults and teens will improve exponentially and the future will look much brighter for generations to come.

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The Lowest Gas Prices in Windsor & Area

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Tecumseh Gas Prices

Tilbury Gas Prices

Are you an "Accidental" American? The IRS might think you are.........

The New City By-law Regarding Garbage. Is it making a difference?

Acceptable Garbage Containers

Metal or Plastic Cans

Roll-Out Cart for Hydraulic Lift

Plastic Bags

Bags must be in a hard-sided container as of July 1, 2014

Unacceptable Containers:

ReMax Annual Housing Report: Windsor Essex

Future of Ojibway Shores

Yes, it really is, but.......

How Shopping Local Will Benefit Us And The City.

Depression: Tips to make it through the holidays.

Understanding Teenagers in Windsor-Essex

On January 28,
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