I noticed something as I was driving around in the post snow world yesterday. Everyones car was a mess. Once shiny and colourful all of the cars and trucks on the road had a greyish brown patina of dirt, grime and salt on them. Add to this the tracking in of this messy mixture into the passenger compartment and it get just plain ugly. It got me thinking, how do people keep thier car clean in the winter time? Some are lucky enough to have indoor facilities in which to wash thier car but most rely on car washes, and car care shops for washes and other care. Automated washes offer convenience and quick turnaround for a fee while manual washes allow the owner to take a hands on approach with a power wash for a few bucks. Given the fast pace of today's working people getting the car washed sometimes falls through the cracks. Keeping your car clean and maintained will protect your investment and save you money in the long run. Wheres your favorite place to get your car cleaned and how often do you go there?
See you in the Snow
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Monday, December 13, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Jingle Ball this Friday
This Friday December 10th there is an event happening that is both a celebration and a fundraiser. Local television, radio and media personality Arms Bumanlag is hosting the 2nd annual Jingle Ball to benefit Windsor firefighters Sparky’s Toy Drive as well as marking his 29th birthday in style. Koko Pellie's will be the place to be this Friday as Drop Dead Famous rocks the house and Arms himself spins tunes in between sets. The price of admission? An unwrapped toy or $5 at the door will all go to help those less fortunate kids in the area have the Christmas that they deserve. Last year the “Up in Arms” charity event raised over $3000 for the Cancer Society, this year organizers are hoping to top this amount for Sparky and celebrate Arm’s final year as a twenty something. Yours truly will be there along with Biz X staffers, media people as well as friends and family. So come on out with a toy and have some fun this Friday night at Koko Pellie’s. The party gets underway at 8:00 and is sure to be a fun time while supporting a great cause. See you there!
Labels:
Arms Bumanlag,
Birthday Bash,
charity,
gifts,
jingle,
Koko Pellies,
toy
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Start the Holiday Machine
Amidst the glitz, glamour and activity of this past weekends Biz X Awards was another yearly event on the other side of the river known as Black Friday. An unofficial kick-off to the holiday shopping season stores embrace the Friday after U.S. Thanksgiving with sales, specials and early openings. The Biz X Awards serve to create a holiday boost for area retailers and small businesses as well through promotion and exposure. From the print and online edition of the magazine to the gala the event showcases a wide variety of industries and services that we use everyday, many that require a strong holiday season for the their yearly bottom line. The event is also a great networking function with fellow award winners, media personalities and business people. Thanks to Deborah Jones and all who work behind the scenes in organizing this fabulous event, all of the businesses who participated and of course our judges and presenters. Let the holiday season begin!
Presenters Arms Bumanlag (left ) and Heidi Baiden pose with me for a quick shot at the Biz X Awards
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Local Businesses support Charitable Initiatives
There is an old saying proclaiming that “charity begins at home”. For many area companies this is a mantra they follow all year long with the holidays sparking a concerted effort on giving and helping those less fortunate. From food banks and shelters to toy drives and clothing collections recent economic pressures have unfortunate created a higher than ever demand and have stretched these community resources to the limit. Although the need exists year round, the holiday season is a popular time for many companies to involve their employees in charitable initiatives. 50/50 draws, donation boxes, food drives and family gift sponsorships are just a few of the ways that people are contributing to a variety of worthy causes.
Biz X Magazine has long been a supporter of many charitable efforts and this years big “Fire and Ice” afterglow Party will follow this tradition. Open to the public the party will be held at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts downtown and feature the band Bigg Wiggle. Admission is an unwrapped toy or $10 that will support Sparky’s Toy Drive. The drive will enable less fortunate families to provide a Christmas for their children and spread holiday cheer throughout the city and county. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to do something good for someone else and have a great time doing it!
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Biz X Magazine has long been a supporter of many charitable efforts and this years big “Fire and Ice” afterglow Party will follow this tradition. Open to the public the party will be held at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts downtown and feature the band Bigg Wiggle. Admission is an unwrapped toy or $10 that will support Sparky’s Toy Drive. The drive will enable less fortunate families to provide a Christmas for their children and spread holiday cheer throughout the city and county. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to do something good for someone else and have a great time doing it!
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The Circus Comes to Town
Today the famed Cirque du Soleil comes to Windsor for a series of shows at the WFCU Centre. Combining circus entertainment with art, acrobatics and music Cirque du Soleil is performing a blend of Eastern performances with Western circus influences. The Dragon (East) and the Lion (West) come together in their latest performance called fittingly “Dralion”. World class performers and athletes and stunning special effects make any Cirque de Soleil event something you will remember. I was fortunate enough to see the troupe in Montreal under a circus tent at the ports of the Quay and was amazed at the level of showmanship and production value. Before or after the show make an effort to try a new restaurant. With a multitude of diversified dining establishments in and around the Windsor area there has never been a better time to try a specialty dinner for a reasonable price. Whether its Thai, Indian, Italian or Chinese there’s always something different to try. Sampling food from other cultures is a great way to expand your horizons and maybe even make new friends. Make this weekend an international affair and tour the world without even leaving Essex County!
Cirque du Soleil performs 8 shows and is town thru Wed thru Sunday. Go to http://www.wfcu-centre.com/ for tickets and info.
Cirque du Soleil performs 8 shows and is town thru Wed thru Sunday. Go to http://www.wfcu-centre.com/ for tickets and info.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
The Ultimate Random Act of Kindness
With Remembrance Day coming up on Thursday the focus will be on our military personnel both past and present that have served and continue to serve this great country of ours. But there is another day on the calendar this week that coincides with the theme of doing for others selflessly. Yes, Friday is “Random Acts of Kindness Day”. For this week I propose random acts of kindness for our Canadian Forces people.
Whether you buy a veteran a coffee, hold a door open or just say thank you the gesture you put forward is one that pales in comparison to the ultimate sacrifice that many have given but can mean a lot if given from the heart.
I have had the opportunity to interview many of our veterans for Biz X Magazine’s Senior Super Star column I write each month. Ordinary folks that performed extraordinary duties under dangerous and trying conditions. Many live today with the injuries that they sustained serving our country and carry a heavy burden because of it. Their experiences impacted their lives in many ways. Some negatively but some positively with many meeting their spouses while overseas. All of them gave something of themselves to keep our country free and make a better life for Canadians everywhere. So take some time and acknowledge these fine folks this week (and thereafter) with a random act of kindness. They deserve at least this from us. Lest we Forget
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Construction Cruise
Anyone who has tried to move about the city (or county for that matter) this past summer probably has a story of traffic jam hell due to road or bridge construction. Usually you find yourself funnelled into a hopeless bottleneck with no way or option to turn around. Patience is key here but more often than not in short supply with harried drivers thinking that somehow the world is going to stop rotating on its axis if they aren’t somehow getting to “the front”. Driving down the shoulder or in a shut down lane the impatient ones come in all makes models, genders and class. Dealing with this is especially irritating if the construction is on your daily route to work. But then I think of the guys out there actually doing the construction work and realize that their efforts will make my drive better in a few short weeks. Being extra careful and courteous in construction zones is a must for everyone’s safety. So the next time your rolling through a road project slow down, watch out and givem' a thumbs up. It’ll be worth the wait.
Labels:
commute,
construction,
crew,
driving,
infrastructure,
projects,
road
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Hotshots are on FIRE!!
This Friday night the Biz X/In Play Hotshots will be making a return to the gruelling firefighter Combat Relays for the 2010 edition of Firefest. It all gets underway at 5:00 at Riverfront plaza for the media challenge. Some of your favourite media personalities will be powering and faking their way through the course while raising money for Transition to Betterness (T2B). A run up to the real heroes of the course on Sat and Sunday Friday night is always fun to see how your average Joe (literally!) does on some of the segments that make up the course.
Last year, yours truly managed to be a contributing factor to the Hotshots win on timing over the Windsor Star team and gained a new appreciation of some of the competitive times that the pros do around this course. Intense training at various establishments by the entire Biz X/In Play squad has been underway all summer and the crew is ready to kick some major butt. So come on out and check out all of the fun and action this Friday. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you will definitely be amused.
Note to Arms and Heidi: We’re “bringin’ it” for the competition! “Training session” after the event at the nearest place of dining.
See you there!
Note to Arms and Heidi: We’re “bringin’ it” for the competition! “Training session” after the event at the nearest place of dining.
See you there!
Labels:
challenge,
competition,
firefest,
firefighting,
media
Monday, August 9, 2010
Ice Cream Excess
I’ve been eating a lot of ice cream lately. Sundaes, soft cones, scooped cones, shakes you name it. Sometimes it’s not even my idea to go but once the suggestion is made..well. The occasion of a birthday also makes the suggestion conveniently positive. Anyways, I’m usually up for the standard one scoop cone or small sundae and sometimes eat inside the shop if there are seats availible. While sitting there stuffing my pie hole with chocolate chip cookie dough supreme I can’t help but observe what other people are eating. What I saw both amazed and astonished me. One dud ordered three large scoops of ice cream in a waffle cone that is as big as a hat! A little girl no older than four was given a two-scoop cone that was half the size of her head! I left before she got too far into it but I am sure that melting mess ended up on the floor or in the garbage. Kid was bouncing off the walls as it was too
Some interesting observations but ones that I would had not experienced unless I was in there doing the same thing. Guilty as charged of maybe eating too much ice cream.
But what the heck it's summer time right. We'll soon be freezing indoors wishing for the days of summer to appear once again
No matter your appetite for ice cream there are many fine shops throughout Windsor and Essex County to serve your favourite treats. Slinky’s on Lesperance Road in Tecumseh, and Rizzo’s Crossing in Essex are just two that come to mind and are popular evening gathering points for families couples and sports teams. So go out for ice cream! Just go for a walk or bike ride as the other part of your treat expedition and you’ll be fine.
Some interesting observations but ones that I would had not experienced unless I was in there doing the same thing. Guilty as charged of maybe eating too much ice cream.
But what the heck it's summer time right. We'll soon be freezing indoors wishing for the days of summer to appear once again
No matter your appetite for ice cream there are many fine shops throughout Windsor and Essex County to serve your favourite treats. Slinky’s on Lesperance Road in Tecumseh, and Rizzo’s Crossing in Essex are just two that come to mind and are popular evening gathering points for families couples and sports teams. So go out for ice cream! Just go for a walk or bike ride as the other part of your treat expedition and you’ll be fine.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
A New Twist to Cell Phone Etiquette
Cell phones today are used for much more than just talking. In fact the term “mobile device” is more appropriate as the ability to text, email, surf the web and take video and photos have become industry standard. While the advent of this technology has made it easy to stay connected to family, friends and business associates it has also created a social dilemma for some who place a misdirected priority on this ability to communicate.
Now I’m not talking about checking a text or email quickly after dinner or placing a brief call to check on the kids while you’re out. I’m referring to people who constantly drop out of a one-on-one conversation to carry on a texting exchange or engage in extended conversations leaving the person they are with “on hold”. Giving someone your undivided attention is a courtesy that seems to be a secondary priority with some people and in my mind is just plain rude. Are we that programmed to multi-task that we cannot defer these communications until it is appropriate? Is this another example of technology driving our social habits or are we forgetting what our parents taught us? Maybe a little bit of both. What do you think?
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Now I’m not talking about checking a text or email quickly after dinner or placing a brief call to check on the kids while you’re out. I’m referring to people who constantly drop out of a one-on-one conversation to carry on a texting exchange or engage in extended conversations leaving the person they are with “on hold”. Giving someone your undivided attention is a courtesy that seems to be a secondary priority with some people and in my mind is just plain rude. Are we that programmed to multi-task that we cannot defer these communications until it is appropriate? Is this another example of technology driving our social habits or are we forgetting what our parents taught us? Maybe a little bit of both. What do you think?
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Friday, July 16, 2010
Area Motorcyclists Singing the Blues
This weekend the Essex County Riders will host a Show’n’Shine at the 2010 Windsor International Bluesfest. A sea of chrome, custom paint and leather will grace our riverfront along with the unmistakeable rumble of big bore v-twin power. The recent debate on excessive noise by motorcyclists who equip their bikes with aftermarket exhaust systems has been one that has raged ever since I can remember. Proponents of open pipes claim “Loud pipes Save Lives” but as a veteran 23 year rider and motorcycle safety instructor I can tell you that is far from the truth. Traffic awareness, zero tolerance for drinking and riding and proper safety gear are the key elements for survival on the road. Maybe it is no coincidence that many owners of these bikes frequently ride with t-shirts and “beanie” helmets. Where’s the argument for safety here? While some may appreciate the symphony of unrestricted multi-cylinder internal combustion, most of the general public view it as a nuisance. I have had many loud bikes in past years but my current ride sports a stock exhaust. I was never a fan of the “look at me” stage” of motorcycling rather ride strictly for the challenge and joy of two wheeled adventure. Gaining 5 or 10 HP with a loud aftermarket exhaust will make you neither a better nor faster rider. I am split on this issue as I personally don’t have a problem with the sound of performance, be it coming out of a souped up car or hot- rodded motorcycle. Hey, crack it open and have fun but do it at the appropriate time and in the appropriate place where it won’t endanger or infringe on other peoples lives. However, if authorities have their way as they are in Alberta some area motorcyclist may find their open pipes will cost them more than the price of installation. Ride Safe.
Labels:
aftermarket,
Bluesfest,
exhaust,
motorcyclists,
noise,
pipes
Sunday, July 4, 2010
World Cup Fever Grips Windsor
For the last three weeks Windsor /Essex County “football” fans have been riveted to their televisions to watch nations of the world engage in sport and competition. And when I refer to football I’m not talking about the Detroit Lions or Pittsburgh Steelers. Football or “Soccer” as it is known in North America is the most watched and most played sport in the world. Every 4 years the governing body, FIFA showcases the best each nation has to offer in the World Cup tournament. Supporters of their respective countries gather at their favourite pub, club or hall to cheer their team, have drink and share a common interest. Sport unites people and area businesses have been great hosts for morning and afternoon gatherings of football fans seeking to watch the many exciting matches between countries. The Manchester Pub, Teutonia Club, and Beirut Café are just a few establishments that have opened their doors early for flag waving fans to cheer their respective teams on to victory. Kudos to the Ontario government as well for extending the hours that alcohol can be served to accommodate 10AM matches.
Although Canada isn’t in the World Cup it seems everyone has a heritage of some sort that can identify with a team playing on the world stage. For those new to the sport I encourage everyone with an open mind to sit down and watch a match. Expand your interest from the traditional sporting events viewed in North America and check out what the rest of the world is making a fuss about. If you give it a chance I think you will be surprised with the intensity and athleticism that true football embodies.
Although Canada isn’t in the World Cup it seems everyone has a heritage of some sort that can identify with a team playing on the world stage. For those new to the sport I encourage everyone with an open mind to sit down and watch a match. Expand your interest from the traditional sporting events viewed in North America and check out what the rest of the world is making a fuss about. If you give it a chance I think you will be surprised with the intensity and athleticism that true football embodies.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Pete McLeod - Air Race Ace
When the Red Bull Air Race series comes to town there will be a new force to reckoned with in the sky. As a pilot with national acclaim and “local” roots 25 year-old Canadian Pete McLeod is making a strong start in the 2010 Red Bull Air Race Series with precise and fast flying. Based out of London Ontario McLeod is an accomplished aerobatic pilot and appeared at the 2009 Windsor International Air Show. He is flying in only his second season with the Series but is seeing gradual success. Currently standing fifth in the championship he is capturing the attention of many who follow the series. His distinctive red airplane incorporates a maple leaf into the graphics and he grew up playing hockey. This is a Canadian race team competing at the world level and making a statement in only its second season. Truly amazing.
So what better way to show your support than showing up on race weekend with your own PMR84 shirt or hat. McLeod just recently launched his own line of race wear on his website http://www.petemcleodracing.com/ . A stylish selection of t-shirts, polo shirts and hats for men and women are available and feature the Pete McLeod Racing and 84 logos.
The site also features news, photos and videos as well as bios, and other interesting facts and content.
Crews are setting up infrastructure downtown and the excitement is building. The Red Bull Air Races are almost here. So come down and cheer our man on. Canadians Rule. Max Power!
So what better way to show your support than showing up on race weekend with your own PMR84 shirt or hat. McLeod just recently launched his own line of race wear on his website http://www.petemcleodracing.com/ . A stylish selection of t-shirts, polo shirts and hats for men and women are available and feature the Pete McLeod Racing and 84 logos.
The site also features news, photos and videos as well as bios, and other interesting facts and content.
Crews are setting up infrastructure downtown and the excitement is building. The Red Bull Air Races are almost here. So come down and cheer our man on. Canadians Rule. Max Power!
Labels:
aerobatics,
aircraft,
championship,
flying,
Pete McLeod,
racing,
Red Bull Air Race
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Fishing for Excitement
You’ve heard of card sharks but fishing sharks? One local sportsman is making a name for himself doing just that only with a twist. Lakeshore resident Josh Jorgensen angles for these predators of the sea off the beaches of Florida. He is heavily involved in the tournament scene down there and has become proficient with the development and use of the techniques and equipment required to be successful in reeling in these fearsome creatures. Recently was involved in the production of a documentary film showcasing the 2009 Blacktip Challenge Tournament
Here is a short trailer on the making of the documentary.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERroY0UpyLI
The cool part about this tournament is that all sharks caught are measured, tagged and recorded for research purposes and returned to the sea. The sharks reputation as a terror to humans is widely misunderstood and Jorgensen is as much about educating people about sharks as he is a fan of fishing for them.
Josh is one guy that has an appreciation for adrenaline sports and has taken his interest in his favorite sport to the extreme. Go big or go home as the saying goes. Just the way we like it.
Here is a short trailer on the making of the documentary.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERroY0UpyLI
The cool part about this tournament is that all sharks caught are measured, tagged and recorded for research purposes and returned to the sea. The sharks reputation as a terror to humans is widely misunderstood and Jorgensen is as much about educating people about sharks as he is a fan of fishing for them.
Josh is one guy that has an appreciation for adrenaline sports and has taken his interest in his favorite sport to the extreme. Go big or go home as the saying goes. Just the way we like it.
by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Downtown Re-Birth??
With the spring making selected appearances the downtown is poised finally be free of winters grip and come alive with festivals, concerts and attractions. Outdoor patios have already been in use and Windsor’s streets will once again be a beehive of activity with the sights and sounds of summer.
There’s a new renaissance happening downtown. The opening of several pub style drinking and dining establishments has signalled a sort of changing of the guard in the downtown bar scene. Places like the Manchester, Mick’s Irish Pub and the Pour House all offer a relaxed and fun atmosphere with a wide assortment of premium ales and bitters a well as delicious culinary offerings. The Loose Goose is another casual and comfortable place to chill out before and event or as an entertaining destination. Yes, there will still be venues for the younger crowd wishing to dance the night away but a diverse entertainment scene brings everyone out for a good time.
What are some of your favourite places and why? I’d love to hear some recommendations.
Eat drink and be merry!
There’s a new renaissance happening downtown. The opening of several pub style drinking and dining establishments has signalled a sort of changing of the guard in the downtown bar scene. Places like the Manchester, Mick’s Irish Pub and the Pour House all offer a relaxed and fun atmosphere with a wide assortment of premium ales and bitters a well as delicious culinary offerings. The Loose Goose is another casual and comfortable place to chill out before and event or as an entertaining destination. Yes, there will still be venues for the younger crowd wishing to dance the night away but a diverse entertainment scene brings everyone out for a good time.
What are some of your favourite places and why? I’d love to hear some recommendations.
Eat drink and be merry!
by Tim Fairhurst Biz X Magazine
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Every Day is Your Birthday
Ever wish every day was just like your birthday? Not the getting one year older part though. I mean the part about it being your “special” day. When you were a kid there’s a good chance that Christmas was your favourite day closely followed by your birthday. This favouritism was inevitably tied to the receiving of gifts but those good feelings of well being and excitement were undeniable and formed many lasting impressions through the years.
Some people have the ability (or good fortune) to live every day as if it were their birthday. They are their own party, spreading smiles and good feelings wherever they go. For them every day is full of excitement and fun regardless of the task at hand. Happiness is a state of mind, an abstract feeling and one we control. Unfortunately as in life there is always a negative to the positive, a ying to the yang if you will. With life’s ups comes downs as well. Frankly I’d be suspect if someone was that happy all of the time anyways.
But maybe it’s not such a crazy concept if you can pull it off. It sure seems like the way to live. Party On.
BTW – Happy Birthday Mom
Some people have the ability (or good fortune) to live every day as if it were their birthday. They are their own party, spreading smiles and good feelings wherever they go. For them every day is full of excitement and fun regardless of the task at hand. Happiness is a state of mind, an abstract feeling and one we control. Unfortunately as in life there is always a negative to the positive, a ying to the yang if you will. With life’s ups comes downs as well. Frankly I’d be suspect if someone was that happy all of the time anyways.
But maybe it’s not such a crazy concept if you can pull it off. It sure seems like the way to live. Party On.
BTW – Happy Birthday Mom
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Winning or Losing
Despite the announcement of several blockbuster construction projects there are still drawbacks and sometimes trade offs. It seems even rainbows have some sort of construction zone
Recently there has been much adieu about the state of Windsor’s riverfront and downtown. Massive construction along a good chunk of Riverside Drive for a retention basin along with road and sewer work throughout the city make for a less than ideal or accurate portrayal of our little city. And therein lies the dilemma. A double edged sword of sorts. Construction = Improvements, jobs and investment in infrastructure. Its just an unavoidable hell of a mess while it is underway. With a host of events held down town every summer the conflict is inevitable. How will Windsor look on the world stage this year when Rd Bull comes to town? Last year was the inaugural year for hosting this prestigious event, a kind of training run. This year we have got to do it right.
I hear Google is coming back too. Kind of like re-take day when you were in grade four. Last year, shaggy parks and overflowing garbage cans were an accurate depiction of what Windsor was at the time. Now google will be re-shooting many of the streets and scenes that were less than stellar last year. Now the city is temporarily scarred with earth moving projects that will inconvenience us for the moment but serve the city into this century.
Sometimes even when you’re winning you’re losing. But I think in the long run all of these improvements will be good for the city though and allow it to grow. What do you think??
I hear Google is coming back too. Kind of like re-take day when you were in grade four. Last year, shaggy parks and overflowing garbage cans were an accurate depiction of what Windsor was at the time. Now google will be re-shooting many of the streets and scenes that were less than stellar last year. Now the city is temporarily scarred with earth moving projects that will inconvenience us for the moment but serve the city into this century.
Sometimes even when you’re winning you’re losing. But I think in the long run all of these improvements will be good for the city though and allow it to grow. What do you think??
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Signs of Life
Saw the first few signs of life while out and about this past weekend. Its amazing how the appearance of a few degrees on the thermometer brings out all manner of activity on the streets and in the stores and bars. The emergence of spring creates a whole new season of spending and benefits many industries. Landscaping companies, tourism destinations and bars and restaurants all enjoy increased business throughout the spring and summer months when folks flock outside.. Motorcycle shops, farm equipment dealerships and the boating industry also contribute to the areas economy during this time as people ready their summer machines for another season.
As one who’s had enough of the cold winter weather I say to summer “Bring it On”. Although I may be premature in my enthusiasm the yearly emergence is undeniable.Red Bull is coming back for a party inthe skies and the Windsor International Airshow is happening again along with a myriad of festivals shows and events. It’s about to get hot in here. Let the games begin
by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine
As one who’s had enough of the cold winter weather I say to summer “Bring it On”. Although I may be premature in my enthusiasm the yearly emergence is undeniable.Red Bull is coming back for a party inthe skies and the Windsor International Airshow is happening again along with a myriad of festivals shows and events. It’s about to get hot in here. Let the games begin
by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Olympic Party - Canadian Style
OK, so the Olympics are over. Riveting tales of grit and determination amidst the spectacle of competition at the highest level provided us with nightly drama and excitement. And yes WE won both hockey tournaments. After much consternation (and ribbing and feedback) I came to realize that everyone in the room had a vested interest in the outcome. This unifying event felt like a group effort and brought people together in such a positive way that you couldn’t help but smile. Europeans get this right with fervent support of football matches, automobile and motorcycle races. National pride is a positive and if you have to attach yourself to a brand I guess this was as good a cause as any. The party in the streets afterward was pretty cool too. I just cringe to think of the mood if WE had lost! Yikes. But it was fan frenzy at its finest. Jack Rosenberg has some more great shots of the aftermath on InPlay Magazine’s facebook site. Check it out.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
There is no "We" in Team
OK, With the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games underway I have been immersed in all of the cool sports and events not generally found on television. The spectacular opening ceremonies, alpine skiing, snowboarding and the fast and exciting luge events have been riveting me to my television every evening. Rooting for Canadian athletes I have been inspired by the stories of triumph and success that Olympic fever brings and felt the pride every time a Canadian stands on the podium.
But there is something that I have to get off my chest. It is a phenomenon that crops up whenever there is a big game or rivalry in the sports world. I have witnessed this during Stanley Cups and World Series involving hometown teams in Detroit. The fever pitch that the Olympic hockey tournament has generated with Team Canada has this term being bandied about once again and it drives me crazy. Now an entire country has jumped on the bandwagon with this.
Yes, it’s the “we” factor. You know, when people refer to their favourite team as “we”.
“We have a big game tonight” or “We played a strong game last night”. I don’t know about you but my contribution to most sporting events consist of snacking on the sofa while watching the truly talented to all of the hard work. “We” implies that somehow I am an integral part of the team. Maybe if I was at the event I could motivate them through my cheering or flag waving thereby affecting the outcome, but my contribution to the final score from home is assuredly insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
I understand that people just want something to grab on to and be a part of the excitement and the patriotism that Canada’s Olympic hockey team exudes is refreshing and welcome.
Referring to “we” in the context of Canada as a country competing in the Olympics makes sense as well because we are all Canadians. But make no mistake, last time I checked there was no Fairhurst on the starting roster for any major league sports team much less Canada’s Olympic Team. This should never stop anyone from watching and enjoying professional sports however. Heck, wear the colors, cheer loudly and wave the flags if it makes you feel good. Just take credit where its due.
I have to go now, we just scored again. Go Team Canada!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Master of Distraction
Well, the cellphone driving ban has just come into play for real. Passed three months ago, the law prohibits the use of hand held devices and video display units while operating a motor vehicle. The high profile taboo of talking while driving has become all the talk with many people. Albeit now while stopped. On my daily drive through the county I have encountered cars pulled over to the shoulder of the road at all hours and locations. Further inspection as I cruise by usually reveals someone talking on a cellphone. Hey, maybe we're finally getting it. Distracted driving is dangerous driving. For the record hand free devices are allowed so the whole multitasking thing is still in effect for those who must always be "connected". I recently bought a bluetooth earpiece thats easy to use and unobtrusive but I seem to have to go out of my way to use it. I guess I dont really spend that much time in my vehicle to warrant (or get a ton of phone calls for that matter) it but thought it might be cool to use it in a store or the bank. I could walk around talking to whomever invisibly and look busy and important. Or not.
Dont talk and Drive
by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine
CLICK ON COVER!
Dont talk and Drive
by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine
CLICK ON COVER!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
New “Shoes” and Winter Driving
I just got a new pair of shoes. Or rather my truck did. The first appearance of that fluffy (or slushy) white stuff falling from the sky was all the prompting I needed to make the investment in a new set of skins for the Escape. Each year winter brings snow, holiday traffic and along with it the pitfalls of winter driving. The recent snowfall had everyone in the Windsor/Essex County area slipping and sliding on the roads during their daily commute to work. Having the proper equipment and being prepared for it can go a long way in keeping you and your family safe and reduce the stress of bad weather navigation. Don’t neglect the most important aspect of your vehicle this winter season and above all drive within your limits and the limits of your surroundings. Remember four-wheel drive is great if you have it but it doesn’t help you stop. Area automotive retailers can hook you up with everything from batteries and tires to tune ups and wiper blades. Taking some time at the beginning of the season to make sure your vehicle is up to snuff is a wise investment. What are you doing to prepare for winter?
Sunday, January 3, 2010
New Years Resolutions, Same Old Story?
Each Year as the big ball drops in New York and we all welcome a New Year onto our calendars many find it necessary to make a resolution or proclamation to do something new or different in the coming year. Tradition has the passing of a new calendar year as the motivation for change in their lives. This year was no different with people vowing to quit smoking, lose weight, work less or take up new hobbies etc.
I didn’t make any formal resolutions this year though. Actions speak louder than words though and while proclaiming a yearly motivation for change can be a catalyst, there is no substitute for just getting down to the business of doing it. Vowing to be a better person, do more things for others and find a better balance in the work/play equation are just a few of my “non-resolutions”.
As the local economy slowly rebounds, some find themselves in different situations or undergoing challenges for the new decade. New employment opportunities, school or possibly even a move to a different home or city may be in your cards. Whatever your status, one thing is certain though. Nothing ever stays the same and life is full of change. It is this change that will make us stronger hopefully serve to move us forward in the new decade.
by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine
CLICK ON COVER!
I didn’t make any formal resolutions this year though. Actions speak louder than words though and while proclaiming a yearly motivation for change can be a catalyst, there is no substitute for just getting down to the business of doing it. Vowing to be a better person, do more things for others and find a better balance in the work/play equation are just a few of my “non-resolutions”.
As the local economy slowly rebounds, some find themselves in different situations or undergoing challenges for the new decade. New employment opportunities, school or possibly even a move to a different home or city may be in your cards. Whatever your status, one thing is certain though. Nothing ever stays the same and life is full of change. It is this change that will make us stronger hopefully serve to move us forward in the new decade.
by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine
CLICK ON COVER!
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