Ticks and Lyme Disease - A Growing Concern Across Canada

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

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

The Future Of Windsor, Ontario.

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

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

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

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

 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

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

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

How Shopping Local Will Benefit Us And The City.

This article has been moved to its permanent home, here

Depression: Tips to make it through the holidays.

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

Let Us Help Give The Less Fortunate A Special Christmas This Year.

Every year, at this time of year, we start worrying about our holiday plans.  Who is going to hold the dinner at their house this year, who is going to offer space for out of town friends and family to stay and all the things you are going to do, to make your Christmas special for you and your family. Many people have found it necessary to cut back from previous years for economical reasons but, still provide a decent Christmas for all.

While we are buying the holiday food and numerous, expensive toys to keep Bobby and Susie happy, we don't think of the less fortunate people in our community.  The parents that have next to nothing. There are sacrifices for themselves, so they can provide SOME kind of Christmas for their kids. They may eat less, cut back on necessities they need for themselves or, even borrow money from friends and family that will be a struggle to pay back.

Luckily, there are organizations that are able to help during the Christmas season and throughout the winter.  They provide hot meals when they can to the homeless and less fortunate.  This year has already been a tough year for food banks.  They haven't had much stock to fill the shelves.  Although, many companies give them food, there is still a shortage.  Donations from the communities through food drives and fundraisers are also a great help.  Unfortunately, it's hard to keep up with the needs of the increasing amount of the less fortunate due to more and more people needing help each year.  More people are losing jobs or having their hours cut back and even taking pay cuts.

There are great companies that donate to organizations what they produce, such as Turkeys and Hams, bags of frozen vegetables and potatoes and such, to provide a Christmas dinner for those less fortunate.  It's all cooked and prepared to serve at various places such as, The Downtown Mission, Street Help and the Windsor Youth Centre, to name a few. For those that have larger families and it would be easier for them to provide a Christmas at home, there are food banks that offer Christmas baskets.  They try to provide holiday favourites like stuffing, cranberries and maybe even a Christmas cake or cookies.  You can also get donated toys from many locations to wrap and give as gifts.

So, this holiday season, while you are out getting everything you need, think of buying a doll or toy truck or crayons and colouring book to donate so these less fortunate kids can receive a present and not feel left out compared to those more fortunate.  It doesn't need to be expensive, they will appreciate just having something new to play with.

Think of a few extra cans of food to donate.  Many grocery stores have a drop off bin or they sell pre-packaged bag and boxes off food you can purchase at the register that will be donated.  Do some extra baking and drop off treats that many children don't get on a regular basis.  If you are crafty, you could knit some hats, scarves and mittens or blankets to donate.  You wouldn't believe how appreciative people are for such items at this time of year.

Clean out your closets if you have old things you don't use.  Clothes, including warm socks and thermal underclothes, old blankets, coats, towels and toiletries, as some places offer a place to sleep and shower.  Most people don't even think about toiletries.  Baby foods and formulas are also needed. You can never donate too much of that.

More and more people have taken to the streets handing out containers of warm food they have left over or, make a cheap and easier dinner and package it and hand it out to those on the streets.

It's understandable some cannot afford to donate their selves but they could volunteer at organizations to help with meals and serving them, handing out toys, help write Santa letters or just read a Christmas story.  If more people even bought 1 or 2 cans of anything to donate or, since food banks are now trying to offer more food groups, items such as hamburger, chicken and eggs are divided up to make smaller packages to hand out.

Every amount of money or grocery store gift card you can donate, big or small, can purchase an array of items like more food, items to help buy supplies shelters need so they can assist those in need.

While you are out hustling and bustling this holiday season, think of something big, or small, that would make someone's family have a special Christmas, full of memories that will last forever.

Although, this story has been about the Holiday season, this help is definitely needed

throughout the entire year.  No one should have to go without!

The CP Holiday Train rolls into Windsor December 2, 2014.
It arrives at 4:30pm and the show starts at 5:30pm.
at
CP Yard at Erie St West and Janette St.

Over it's 3 week journey to get to Windsor,  it stops in every community collecting food and money donations.  They have a concert at every stop that is free but, they do ask you to donate money or a non-perishable food item.  All contributions stay in our community.

CP Holiday Train Website

http://www.cpr.ca/en/community/holiday-train

Happy Holidays from all of us, to all the friends of the 

Windsor Business Networks,

and the Mashup Kaffe.

Written By:  Mike Crawford

Remembrance Day: Remembering Our Veterans And All Our Fallen Canadians.

November is the month we remember our Service men and woman.  The Veterans that fought for the freedom we have today.  November 11 has been dedicated to honour those people across Canada. This day is observed yearly.  Our Veterans deserve to be recognized all year round.  In Windsor, Ontario, ceremonies and dedications take place throughout the year.

Canada has participated in many different wars.  More notably the First and Second World Wars, the Vietnam War and the Korean War.  There was also the Boer War, War of 1812, D-Day and Normandy.  These wars went on many years ago.  More recently, there was the Gulf War, the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.  Those are just a few of course.  There is quite a history of Canada and the wars Canadians were involved in all over the world.

Canada has often joined forces with the United States as allies.  Not always actively fighting, they were more peacekeepers.  They did however, export weapons and other supplies and provided medical services to the wounded and those that could not mentally continue on.  Canadians still were exposed to the horrors of war.  Living in tunnel, trenches and bunkers and trying to survive in the open fields.  Hundreds of thousands of soldiers, nurses, and notable people either lost their lives, became prisoners of war or, were missing in action.

Windsor, Ontario, Canada became a very large training camp where men and women from the surrounding counties came to prepare for war.  There were eventually sent off to Camp Borden and were deployed from there.  Windsor also became known for manufacturing weapons, some vehicles and supplies to take to war.

Windsor is home to numerous monuments and memorial sites throughout the city that recognize and honour the Veterans and fallen soldiers.  Many of these monuments have been placed parks all along the riverfront.  Ceremonies and dedications take place throughout the year on anniversaries and the addition of monuments and plaques.  The service men and woman of the Windsor-Essex County area should be recognized as much as possible, not just on November 11.

Some of the larger monuments that can be found are, The North Wall which is also known as Canadian Vietnam Veteran's Memorial.  Located under the Ambassador Bridge in Assumption Park, it lists 103 names of casualties of known Canadian origin.

The North Wall Memorial

The First World War memorial stands at the gates of Memorial Park, which dates back to 1925.  This memorial has the names of 837 men and woman from the Windsor area who have died.

World War I memorial

The Second World War monument can be found in Jackson Park.  Located just South of Downtown. This park has many other monuments, plaques and trees that were dedicated to Veteran's from land, sea, and air.  Another WW II Memorial can be found along the river.

World War II Memorial

The Korean War memorial can be found Downtown in Dieppe Gardens.  On the left side, the names of 516 fallen Canadians and on the right side, the names of those from the Windsor-Essex County alone.

Korean War Memorial

Every year a Remembrance Day ceremony takes place at the Cenotaph at the City Hall in downtown Windsor, Ontario. Wreaths are laid, the Colour Guard Marches along with Windsor's divisions and forces of the military. 

Written By:  Mike Crawford

The Cenotaph at City Hall In Downtown Windsor

The Colour Guard

Assembled crowd at the ceremony

Some of the other monuments that can be found around Windsor.

Afghan War Memorial

Boer War Memorial

Windsor Junction

Olde Sandwich Towne, Windsor, Ontario

Olde Sandwich Towne  is where Aboriginal nations including the Chippewas, Ottawas, Potowatomis and Wyandots had originally settled in the area.  In 1797, the land was purchased from the Huron Indians and then, in 1858, was given the status of being a "town".  Located along the Detroit River in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, it is one of the oldest and historically significant settlements in Ontario, with many of historical events in Ontario history.  There are many historical buildings that still exist today in Sandwich Towne.  It then amalgamated in 1935 with East Windsor, Windsor and Walkerville and became the City of Windsor.

Some of the more historical points of interest in the area include, The Duff-Baby Mansion.  It is the oldest building in Windsor and, is one of the best preserved Georgian-style houses in Ontario.  It was built between 1792 and 1798 by one of the founding residents of Sandwich Towne.  It was then purchased in 1807 by military officer, James Baby.

The Duff-Baby Mansion

The McGregor-Cowan house, was built in 1805 and is one of the only residential homes in the area.  It was spared from the events of the war of 1812.  During the rebellion of 1837-1838, it was used as an officers quarters.

The McGregor-Cowan house

The Francois Baby House, which was being built in 1812, was commandeered by American Brigadier, General William Hull.  This happened during his invasion of Upper Canada.  The house was abandoned and became a museum in 1958.  As a National Historic Site, today it houses the Windsor Community Museum.

The Francois Baby House

Our Lady of Assumption Church is the oldest, continuous, Catholic Parish in Canada.  It dates back to the Huron Mission of 1728. The church has been built up by dedicated pastors and parishioners and is one of the first buildings you see when you cross the border from Detroit.

Our Lady of Assumption Church

MacKenzie Hall, built in 1855-1856 by Alexander MacKenzie.  He became the second Prime Minister of Canada in 1873.  It served as the County Court House until 1963.  Many memorable trials had been held there.

MacKenzie Hall

The original Windsor Jail, was built in 1926 in Sandwich Towne.  Three stories high and surrounded by 20 foot walls of cement, had enough room to hold 101 inmates.  Expansions were done over the years to make it larger.  Today, it is abandoned and the fate of the building unknown.

Original Windsor Jail

Post Office

Some other notable buildings include the Sandwich Towne Post Office, which is now closed.  Also there was the Dominion House, which still stands today but, was rebuilt after it endured a large fire in 1879.  It was once an Inn for stagecoach travelers going between Windsor and Amherstburg.  It is now one of the oldest taverns still operating in Ontario.

Original Dominion House

These are some of the more prominent buildings in Olde Sandwich Towne.  There are numerous other houses that still stand and are over 150 years old.  They have be remodeled over the years but, some of the original characteristics have been restored.  There is so much more to discover about the buildings and landmarks.  There is also more to discover of the more notable people that settled there and, what events occurred in the area so many years ago, in one of Windsor's more interesting areas.

Various annual festivals take place in Olde Sandwich Towne to celebrate the historical heritage of the area.  They have parades, car shows, ghost tours and Open Doors which allows you entry into some of the buildings.  You can also take your own Historic Walking Your by picking up a guide booklet from MacKenzie Hall.

There are historical murals painted on buildings, many bars with patios and restaurants.  Everything you need can be found there.  From a Farmer's Market, to a Bakery and a small town grocer.  You could spend and entire day exploring the Towne and hanging out by the river where you can find a replica of a Windmill that stood there so long ago.

Written By:  Mike Crawford

Library

Town Hall