Sunday, 20 March, 2011

Windsor is a Creativity Hub = (AGW +ACWR) + (DIA + MOCAD)


Windsor Essex is a creativity hub flanked by Detroit's energy and rebound.

First stop is Sandi Wheaton's photography. Her exhibit which opened today at The Art Gallery of Windsor is simply superb. It is called Promised Water -Promised Land - The Saltan Sea is a collection of photographic images of neglected and protected desert landscapes. The subject matter, lines, colours, composition are crisp and provoke some reflection on the human nest. I felt a positive energy even though we witness the horrors of waste, abandonment, change, and decay. Her photograhic voice speaks loudly. A must see. www.sandiwheaton.com

The Arts Council Windsor Essex produces the weekly ARTS NOTES elist. Easy to subscribe. It is Fun to know what is going on.

Pop through the tunnel under the Detroit River and voila The DIA - Detroit Institute of Arts is 5 minutes away. Robust collection, outstanding curating and special shows and home to the Detroit Film Institute. Docs, features, art house films, it is all here for $6.00 a show. A Vintage restored auditorium to boot. Academy nominations were screened this past month. www.dia.org Need some music to take you into the weekend mood? Friday Nights Live at the DIA books regional and national musical acts with shows at 7pm and 8:30pm - jazz, funk, techno, classical, acoutic.

Want your art in an old car dealers showroom? Funky is at home in Motown. Museum of Modern Art Detroit is a fun space with imaginative installations, mixed media, family events and not to be missed parties.

Need some creative people in your life? Need some inspiration or a time out? Come and explore the living city.

Monday, 24 January, 2011

Windsor Essex named to top 7 intelligent communities of 2011


Windsor Essex named to the Top Seven Intelligent Communities of 2011

Retire in Windsor Essex- Live the life you imagine! ICF named the Top Seven Intelligent Communities of 2011 at a 19 January ceremony during PTC'11, the annual conference of the Pacific Telecommunications Council in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. The following communities, drawn from the Smart21 of 2011, were named to the Top Seven based on analysis of their nominations by a team of independent academic analysts. Complete profiles of the communities will be available on ICF's Web site following publication of the white paper, Top Seven Intelligent Communities of 2011, in February. On Friday, October 16, 2009, Windsor and Essex County was recognized as one of the Top 21 most intelligent communities in the world by the Intelligent Community Forum. The Intelligent Community Forum is a think tank that studies the economic and social development of the 21st Century community, based in New York, New York. The ICF seeks to share the best practices of the world's Intelligent Communities in adapting to the demands of the Broadband Economy, in order to help communities everywhere find sustainable renewal and growth.

Each year, the Intelligent Community Forum presents an awards program for Intelligent Communities and the public-sector and private-sector partners who contribute to them. The awards program has two goals: to salute the accomplishments of communities in developing local prosperity and inclusion in the Broadband Economy, and to gather data for ICF's research programs.

"When the ICF selects a community to be one of the top intelligent communities of the year, it shines the international spotlight on the region, and demonstrates that we are a community that is thinking forward, and capable of collaborating to advance the well being of residents, businesses and organizations. By being selected one of the awarded communities, Windsor-Essex has the potential to become part of the ICF’s Immersion Lab, which would bring industry leaders from around the globe to our neighbourhood in an effort to promote economic diversification and development.

This year’s application theme was the Educational Last Mile, which examines how the community is preparing its youth to enter the workforce. A suite of programs from the Odette School of Business was the primary focus, including the innovative MBA program and the activities of the Centre for Business Advancement and Research.

This activity builds upon the previous successes of the Connecting Windsor-Essex™ Smart Community initiative, which is making our community one of the world’s most connected regions and uniting diverse organizations and individuals to champion the cause of connecting people “at the speed of life.”"

Friday, 21 January, 2011

CBC The National News Retirement Series profiles fabulous opportunity in Windsor Essex January 20, 2010




This week CBC The National News program is taking a look at Retirement in Canada. Leamington a small city of 30,000 on the north shore of Lake Erie was profiled on January 20, 2010. It is located in Windsor Essex County. The reporter interviewed retirees enjoying the good life: meeting new people, staying active with sports and community event and even no parking meters on main street when you go shopping. Retirees report the cost of living is lower which means they can actually do more.


Windsor Essex continues to attract more and more retirees. Summer and Winter for the past few years adventurous retirees who are looking to stretch their money have bought in South West of Ontario. Why- well the real estate prices are comparably lower, the weather is warmer and the welcome a pleasant surprise. Looking for a fresh start on the next phase of life? Discuss with your financial advisor what income you expect to have in retirement. Do you have equity in your current home. Many people heading into retirement have paid off their homes. Selling your home in a more expensive area and purchasing a less expensive home can result in freeing up some equity. Have you thought about helping your children get started, affording a winter vacation, having more space for a garden, building the dream home, farm markets, watching NHL hockey played by the Detroit Red Wings? Home and condo purchase prices are lower in this region which means if you buy a similar property you will have money left over when you move. Your banker will think you are pretty smart.

Money , money, money - is something we can all worry about. Are you and your partner looking to have a more enjoyable retirement knowing you can afford the things which you want? Are you trying to stretch your pension and savings income? Wouldn't it be nice to find a safe and warmer place to live the golden years. Windsor Essex is the most southerly location in Canada. Nature an interest? Well, Point Pelee National Park has some of the best beaches in Ontario, best bird watching, and wonderful examples of the Carolinian Forest. That is right the forest is similar to forests in North Carolina.

In addition to a good financial planner you will need to find a good realtor to discuss your options. You will need to get an appraisal on your current property. What minor improvements would make your current home more attractive to buyers? What are current market conditions? I can offer you some useful experience and local knowledge at both ends of the equation. I lived and worked in the Toronto area for 30+ years. I purchased property in Windsor Essex in 2008. My real estate business is located in both areas. As a licensed real estate sale representative in Ontario I can provide real estate information and skills to guide you to make well informed decisions. Working with my colleague Dianne Goodgoll, also a Sales Representative at Harvey Kalles Real Estate, we can help you market your Toronto area home and help you purchase your new home in South West Ontario.

If this is a region and lifestyle you want to investigate, it all begins with an email or phone call to set up an appointment. Everyone has unique needs and preferences. Dianne and I have years of experience marketing properties for sellers and guiding prospective buyers to identify properties and then negotiating successful offers for sale and purchase. Take a look at some of the other blog postings I have written to get a better idea of what the area has to offer. You can reach me at either 416 616 6727 or 519 903 6727 and by email at nmens@trebnet.com

Sunday, 6 December, 2009

WINDSOR SYMPHONY PLAYED VIVALDI'S FOUR SEASONS IN THE MAGNIFCIENT ASSUMPTION COLLEGE CHAPEL



I ENJOYED MY FIRST PERFORMANCE BY THE WINDSOR SYMPHONY RECENTLY. FIRST OFF THE SETTING IN ASSUMPTION COLLEGE CHAPEL ON THE CAMPUS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR MUSIC AND SPOKEN WORD. ANTONIO VIVALDI COMPOSED MUSIC AND WORDS FOR THE HIS COMPOSITION- QUATRO STAGGONI. THIS CONCERT WAS SOLD OUT. THE CHAPEL IS AN INTIMATE SETTING AND THE ACCOUSTICS ARE OUTSTANDING. EVERY NOTE WAS CRSIP AND CLEAR. THE STRINGS WERE DRAMATICALLY INTERPRETED FOR EACH SEASON IN THIS INSPIRING AND GENTLE WORK BY VIVALDI: THE SOUNDS OF RAIN DROPS. WINTER WINDS, THE SERENITY OF SUMMER LIGHT AND THE ENERGY OF SPRING.

I LOOK FORWARD TO MY NEXT CONCERT IN THE "INTIMATE SERIES" IN JANUARY. I WENT TO THE 11AM PERFORMANCE AND AT 1PM THEN WENT ON TO ENJOY A HOT PREPARED LUNCH AND MET SOME OTHER CONCERT GOERS. THE COMBINATION TICKET IS ARRANGED THROUGH THE WINDSOR SYMPHONY BOX OFFICE. THIS MAKES A PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE SOME NEW FRIENDS AND ENJOY A LIVE PERFORMANCE AND A SHARE LOVE OF MUSIC.
FOR MORE INFORMATION http://www.windsorsymphony.com/

IF YOU WANT TO GET MORE INFORMATION ON LIFE IN WNDSOR ESSEX AND BOBLO ISLAND GO TO MY WEBSITE TO GET INFORMATION ON MY CURRENT LISTINGS. YOU LEAVE NOTHING BEHIND WHEN YOU CREATE A NEW LIFE IN WINDSOR ESSEX.
WWW.NEILMENS.COM

Wednesday, 18 November, 2009

Thousands flock to Windsor International Film Festival

WOW what a weekend! I took in this Years Gala film - COOKING WITH STELLA is an amazing Canadian film DIRECTED BY DILIP MEHTA and stars: Don McKellar, Lisa Ray, Shriya Saran, Vansh Bhardwaj, Maury Chaykin, Alexiane Perreault, and Seema Biswas.. The Director was in attendance and then mingled with guests at the Reception following. The following night I saw my first movie at the historic Capital Theatre. It is magnificent. Retirees headed to Windsor, Boblo Island, and Amherstburg are really in for a treat with cultural opportunities on your doorstep.



The Windsor Star article called the Festival 5 Star *****
"There was a noticeable buzz in the city core this past weekend, and it had everything to do with the Windsor International Film Festival.

Now in its fifth year, the festival packed 30 films into four days, and screened all -- save the opening night gala at Caesars Windsor -- at the Capitol Theatre. The list of films was exceptional, attendance more than doubled and downtown core bars and restaurants enjoyed the spinoff."

"Something just took this year," said Mark Boscariol, chairman of the festival. "We truly captured the film festival feeling."

We couldn't agree more. If there was any doubt before, the festival is now an integral part of our local cultural scene.





"Windsor's landmark performing arts centre was completed in 1920 by Thomas W. Lamb, one of North America's premiere early 20th century theatre designers. A two-year renovation, completed in 1995, has restored The Capitol to its original splendour and it now plays host to a wide variety of entertainment, corporate and community events - concerts, dramatic plays, musicals, comedies and children's plays, as well as corporate and government meetings, seminars and press conferences - even an occasional wedding!

Located in the heart of Windsor's downtown business core, The Capitol is within minutes walk from hotels, restaurants, and business and government offices. As a non-profit organization, The Capitol brings low-cost, live entertainment to Windsor, with the grandeur reminiscent of the great theatres of the early 1900's. It remains on of the regions best entertainment values."

If you are interested in learning more about Windsor and BOBLO ISLAND REAL ESTATE lets chat. Our island is minutes to Windsor International Film Festival and downtown Windsor. Imagine living the time of your life and fulfilling your dreams in an ideallic island setting. Walk with nature around the island in the morning, take guests for a winery tour in the afternoon and then end up in downtown Windsor for the Film Festival. This region of Ontario continues to provide buyers the best real estate values in Southern Ontario. I invite you to contact me to discuss your real estate needs today. Call me to set up a time to see the island for yourself.

VISIT MY WEBSITE TO SEE CURRENT LISTINGS ON BOBLO ISLAND WWW.NEILMENS.COM

Wednesday, 4 November, 2009

Windsor Firefighters Host ChiliFest at the Windsor Armories


Winter weather is in the air, we have turned back our clocks, the Detroit River shipping traffic is slowing and the leaves are falling from the trees. The spectacular fall colours were wonderful again this year with the bright reds of the soft maples shining against the bright blue skys in the background. I took in the Chili Festival at the Windsor Armories hosted by the Firefighters Association. Lunch was only $7 and 50 restaurants prepared pots of chili from mild to wild. There was a huge turn out for this event. The cooler temperatures brought out a hungry gang today. The Firefighter were selling their 2010 Firefighters Calendar for $10 with proceeds to their community projects. The Calendars are available at the station on Goyeau Ave. With thoughts of chimneys, fireplaces, christmas trees, and candles burning on the table It is wise to remember and practice fire safety. I would encourage everyone to take a look at the Windsor Fire website. http://www.windsorfire.com/ecom.asp?pg=news&specific=308

Saturday, 22 August, 2009

Retire in Windsor Essex- Live the life you imagine - You are Invited to The Shores of Erie International Wine Festival September 10,11,12,13, 2009



Looking for an opportunity to discover the beauty of South Western Ontario look no further. An exciting and affordable lifestyle awaits. Retirees take note home ownership is much less expensive than in the Greater Toronto Area so your savings and investments go along way. Come and visit - like me, you may end up finding a new home! Please come and explore.

Amherstburg Ontario is the location of the Shores of Erie International Wine Festival. The real estate development we represent is on Boblo Island, a Canadian island in the middle of the Detroit River, overlooking Fort Malden, The Town of Amherstburg, and is just a 5 minute island ferry ride to all the fun. Join thousands of visitors on the grounds of Parks Canada's Historic Fort Malden for the best in entertainment, and Lake Erie South Shore wines.

"Set along the magnificent shoreline at the mouth of Lake Erie and the Detroit River, the Shores of Erie International Wine Festival is a showcase for Lake Erie’s North Shore award winning wineries and fabulous restaurants!

Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada, with its pristine waterfront grounds is the backdrop to a memorable autumn weekend. Sip into the sunset with excellent wines and authentic, mouth watering cuisine. Enjoy the sounds of eclectic world music from jazz to salsa to classic rock on 2 stages!






Don’t miss our celebrity chefs and wine experts at the Culinary Demo and Wine for Everyone Pavilions. Tastings, cooking shows and informative seminars are FREE with your pass all weekend long!

An exquisite 5 course Winemakers Dinner, complete with VQA wine pairing by candlelight in a beautifully decorated tent creates the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable evening. Each table is hosted by one of the region's finest winemakers or sommeliers. Limited seating for this event!

Go ahead…indulge yourself in the harvest celebrations of this year’s Wine Festival!"

There is a huge line up of musical talent on the main stage- Bedoun Soundclash, The Stills, Serena Ryder, and Kathleen Edwards.

For tickets and more information on times see the website.
http://www.soewinefestival.com/

Visitors to the Shores of Erie International Wine Festival are encouraged to visit the Boblo Island Discovery Center on Dalhousie Street in Amherstburg. Appointments to visit the island to view available properties can be arranged. For more information about island properties we have listed please visit our website at www.neilmens.com

Wednesday, 5 August, 2009

WINDSOR PRIDE COMMUNITY - The Mayor raises the Rainbow Flag at City Hall to launch Pride Week 2009




Windsor Essex welcomes and celebrates a diverse population. This week Mayor Eddie Francis raised the Rainbow Flag at City Hall to launch a week long program of activites and events to celebrate the contribution of the Windsor Pride Community. It is a chance for the LGBT community to gather and celebrate their own contributions to city life. It is also an opportunity for friends, family, colleagues at work, to demonstrate that Pride matters in the community. It is an important opportunity for the business community to learn more about making Windsor Essex attractive to the LGBT community through the introduction of new programs and initiatives to support LGBT employees in this vital community. To get more information Windsor Pride Community www.windsorpride.com has an excellent website for you to get all the information on the upcoming week of celebrations of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, and Trans) community.


THE MISSION OF WINDSOR PRIDE COMMUNITY

"We promote the acceptance and celebration of LGBTT identities and lifestyles with public education, special events and partnerships with other community organizations.

We conduct research to identify the needs of the LGBTT members of our community for the purpose of advocating for social services that are tailored to their needs.

We develop and operate social support for members of the LGBTT communities to support and assist those experiencing challenges.

We engage in advocacy activities for the purpose of safeguarding the rights of the LGBTT members of our community, fighting discrimination against them and fostering social harmony.

We provide the LGBTT members of our community with educational and recreational opportunities to encourage personal development, enhance general wellness and improve quality of life."

"We're gay...and gray! Let's enjoy life."
"Did you know that GLBT seniors are actually GLBT pioneers and ultimately the providers of the freedoms we enjoy today? Despite this, did you know that GLBT seniors face some special challenges even to this day? Many have never been able to "come out" or are forced to "go back into the closet" because of a fear of rejection from their families or not knowing what health care or other service provider to entrust. Often compounding this is the lack of a peer group or network of close friends. The result of this is living with fear and isolation - the very thing they have suffered through and fought against for so long.

50+Proud seeks to end this isolation by building a stronger GLBT senior community right here in Windsor and Essex County. We will provide the opportunity for GLBT seniors a peer group of those with similar life experiences, the chance to tell their story, and the chance to feel valued in our society. We will also provide a resource network for GLBT seniors - connecting them with a GLBT friendly support structure for the various health, financial, social, and other matters all seniors face.

Perhaps one of the most important functions will be our efforts to reach out and educate mainstream service providers such as long term care and other health facilities. We believe this is important as it will help create atmospheres that are more inclusive and therefore inviting to marginalized seniors.

We're proud to be supported with the financial assistance of the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program."

RETIREES ACROSS ONTARIO AND MICHIGAN ARE INVITED TO COME TO WINDSOR TO CELEBRATE PRIDE, TOUR THE COUNTY , VISIT THE WINERIES, SHOP THE FARMERS MARKETS, WALK, HIKE AND CYCLE THE WATERFRONT PARKS AND DISCOVER WHY WINDSOR ESSEX IS ONE OF ONTARIO'S HOTTEST RETIREMENT LOCATIONS. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITIES IN WINDSOR ESSEX OR THE FABULOUS NANTUCKET STYLED TOWNHOMES, CONDOS, AND BUILDING LOTS ON BOBLO ISLAND CHECK OUT MY WEBSITE AT WWW.NEILMENS.COM

Wednesday, 29 July, 2009

BOBLO JAZZ FESTIVAL - GREAT SMOOTH JAZZ, GREAT FOOD, WINES AND NEARLY $15000 FOR TRANSITION TO BETTERNESS (T2B) TO SUPPORT REGIONAL CANCER CARE!!!!



Boblo Island Residents and visitors numbering nearly a thousand were treated to the very best in International Jazz at the Third annual Bob-Lo Island Jazz Festival.
Alexander Zonjic, a talented Motor City Jazz performer and DETROIT'S Smooth Jazz V98 DJ brought together a memorable program of performances for the all day jazz fest on the island main stage from 1pm to 9pm.

* SINGER /SONGWRITER JODY RAFFOUL
* THE MOTOWN 50TH ANNUAL REVIEW BY SERIEUX
* FOUR80 EAST
* JAZZ GUITARIST PETER WHITE
* ALEXANDER ZONJIC AND THE MOTOR CITY HORNS





The event partnered with a local charity and raised approximately $15,000 for Transition to Betterness (T2B) which provides support to Oncology programs for cancer care in Windsor Essex regional hospitals. T2B hosted the after party from 9-1pm in a marquet tent. More music, buffet, beach bonfire and good friends made this a spectacular day on Boblo Island.


BOBLO JAZZ FESTIVAL Guests were invited to tour the island with sales representatives like myself, to explore the beaches, bike trails and the island, learn about the development, and visit model homes and condos. I enjoyed meeting people from Michigan and Ontario. Today Boblo island properties are well priced and can be ready to move in to in 90 days. Buyers have the chance to select features and finishes to make their home unique to their needs. For some it is their chosen location for year round living, and for others a weekend, holiday, seasonal or retirement residence. Boblo Island is a convenient 3 minute ferry ride to the mainland in the Historic Town of Amherstburg.



If you are interested in learning more about this island and the relaxed lifestyle if affords please call me to set up a time to see the island for your self. VISIT MY WEBSITE TO SEE CURRENT LISTINGS ON BOBLO ISLAND WWW.NEILMENS.COM
The island offers guests a Stay and Play program which offers 2 night accommodation in a furnished and fully equipped suite. Wouldn't you like to listen to jazz on Boblo Island?

Tuesday, 23 June, 2009

An Invitation To Celebrate Canada Day On The Leamington Waterfront



Wednesday, July 1 Canada Day Fireworks

The Municipality of Leamington, its Mayor and Town Council invite all residents to celebrate Canada Day on Wednesday, July 1st at the Leamington waterfront.

Festivities will include; a spectacular fireworks with barbeque food in the upper park and on the marina grounds. Entertaiment with Dale Butler & friends from 8:30pm till 10:00pm. Fireworks at 10pm.

Hot Dog concessions stands will be available before and after the event. Happy Canada Day from Neil Mens, Sales Representative Harvey Kalles Real Estate Limited. While in Leamington make an appointment to see a great home listed for sale at 352 Seacliff Dr. West. For more information see www.neilmens.com

Friday, 29 May, 2009

SCALEDOWN RADIO IN WINDSOR INTERVIEWS PROF. RICHARD FLORIDA


SCALEDOWN WINDSOR is a BLOG. It is both well read and well written. The Blog has Audio, Video, Articles, Forums, Links and Images. This blog is a tool for citizenship in the best sense. I like communities working to make towns and cities more sustainable and livable. The Scaledown "MISSION is to promote the cultural identity, improve the social fabric and economic prosperity of Windsor, Ontario through open discussion and grass-roots advocacy. The Scaledown Vision is to connect every Windsorite to their own walkable neighborhood that has its own public spaces, local independent businesses and artists."

Local radio station CJAM FM 95.1 in Windsor, broadcasts Scaledown Radio live Monday's from 12 noon to 1pm. I recommend the Interview with Professor Richard Florida from the Rotman School of Business at the University of Toronto. He is the author of many best selling books on people, cities and change. The Rise of the Creative Class was perhaps one of his best I have read. In a 40 minute interview he discusses the future of the Windsor Detroit Region.
Listen in to Richard Florida’s thoughts on Windsor’s future, the posibilities of a high-speed rail link between Windsor and Montreal, the labour/creative culture divide and much more!


SCALEDOWN connects people and ideas, to create change. It is the kind of grass roots advocacy at the heart of why I love Windsor, and bought a house in Walkerville for my own retirement. The strength of the city is in its people and their ability to join together to re-imagine their city. For example - Lets try to double the number of bicycle commuters this year.

Look for the interview on this website http://www.scaledown.ca/2009/05/19/scaledown-radio-may-18-2009-the-florida-interview/

After listening to this interview, and reading the blog, you may well want to join the other retirees headed to Windsor for the high quality of life and the low cost of living. Visit my website to SEE NEW MY CURRENT LISTING INFORMATON ON ESSEX COUNTY HOMES, CONDOS, AND BUILDING LOTS. SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GET OUT TAKE THE BIKE TRAIN TO WINDSOR, STAY OVER, TASTE SOME NEW WINES, AND EXPLORE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO WWW.NEILMENS.COM

VIA BIKE TRAIN EXPANDS THE HUGELY SUCCESSFUL "TAKE THE TRAIN - BRING YOUR BIKE" PROGRAM TO WINDSOR ESSEX THIS SUMMER



YIPPEE!!!! TAKE THE TRAIN - BRING YOUR BIKE. YOU CAN TAKE THE BIKE TRAIN TO WINDSOR ESSEX FROM UNION STATION IN DOWNTOWN TORONTO- THINK OF ALL THE FUN AND EXCITEMENT EXPLORING - THE CHRYSLER TRAIL - A PART OF THE TRANS CANADA TRAIL FOLLOWS AN OLD RAIL LINE FROM WINDSOR TO HARROW AND KINGSVILLE. NO CARS OR TRAFFIC! STOP FOR WATER, ICE CREAM, WINERIES, PICNICS. HEALTHY ACTIVE LIVING CAN BE GREEN LIVING TOO. RETIREMENT IS BETTER WHEN YOU KEEP PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. FOR CYCLISTS WINDSOR ESSEX COUNTY IS A DREAM. IT IS FLAT!!!! IT IS LIKE RIDING ACROSS THE NETHERLANDS IN EUROPE. THE PATHS IN THE CITY ALONG THE 5 KM RIVERFRONT PARK ARE AMAZING. THERE ARE BIKE TRAILS EVERYWHERE. WINDSOR TRANSIT BUSES HAVE BIKE RACKS. JOIN THE WINDSOR CYCLING COMMITTEES. YOU CAN EVEN TAKE YOUR BIKE ON THE FERRY TO BOBLO ISLAND AT AMHERSTBURG.

"The VIA Bike Train is an initiative that promotes cycle tourism in Ontario. It encourages low impact tourism and healthy lifestyles. This service combines two sustainable modes of transportation - bikes and trains - allowing passengers to reduce their carbon footprint, and have fun too!

By enjoying local and regional tourist attractions Bike Train passengers are stimulating local economies while avoiding long distance car journeys and air travel that produce abundant greenhouse gas emissions. You can enjoy wines and produce from the Greenbelt, interact with Ontario farmers and get to know the world around you.

People of all ages are rediscovering cycling not just as a leisurely Saturday afternoon activity, but as a viable form of transport. Reinvigorate yourself and your lifestyle while protecting the environment by planning your Bike Train getaway today!" FOR INFORMATION , DATES, ITINERARIES, AND MUCH MORE INFORMATION AND GREAT PHOTO GALLERIES CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE

http://www.biketrain.ca/

FOR WINDSOR CYCLING RESOURCES http://www.cyclewindsor.ca/


AFTER YOU HAVE DONE SOME BIKE EXPLORING - AND THINK IT MAY JUST BE THE PLACE TO BE IN YOUR RETIREMENT WE SHOULD TALK. TO SEE NEW MY CURRENT LISTING INFORMATON ON ESSEX COUNTY HOMES, CONDOS, AND BUILDING LOTS. SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GET OUT TAKE THE BIKE TRAIN, STAY OVER, TASTE SOME NEW WINES, AND EXPLORE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO WWW.NEILMENS.COM

THE RED BULL AIR RACE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS RETURN TO WINDSOR June 13-14




RED BULL RACES- On the Detroit River between downtown Windsor Ontario and Detroit Michigan- another good reason for retirees to seriously consider relocating to WINDSOR ESSEX. Retirement is about having the time to do what you want. Well Windsor Essex is likely to offer you so much to do, you will need to invite your friends to join you here, if they want to see you . It is not hard to sell living in the warmest part of Ontario.

One of the most exciting new sports. It is time to get out the sun screen, lawn chairs and head to the 5km waterfront park.
"The Red Bull Air Race World Championship features the world’s best race pilots in a motor sports competition that combines speed, precision and skill. The Red Bull Race 2009 venues are Windsor ( Canada), San Diego (USA), Abu Dhabi (UAE), Barcelona (Spain), Porto (Portugal), and Budapest ( Hungary). Windsor is in good company. And you thought Windsor was only a ............

Using the fastest, most agile and lightweight racing planes, pilots navigate a low-level aerial track made up of air-filled pylons, flying at speeds reaching 370 km/h (230 mph) while withstanding forces of up to 12G.

Touching down in six cities worldwide in 2009, each Red Bull Air Race is unique. From the heart of the city to the open countryside, over land or water, a Red Bull Air Race can take place almost anywhere. Spectacular backdrops and jaw-dropping action guarantee that spectators experience one of the most innovative and exciting new sports around today." For more information, tickets and special events:
http://www.redbullairrace.com/cs/Satellite/en_air/Red-Bull-Air-Race-EN/001238611393596


TO SEE NEW LISTING INFORMATON ON ESSEX COUNTY HOMES, CONDOS, AND BUILDING LOTS. SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GET OUT TO WATCH THE RED BULL RACES, AND EXPLORE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO PLEASE VISIT WWW.NEILMENS.COM

"ART IN THE PARK" AT WILLISTEAD MANOR IN WINDSOR JUNE 6-7, 2009

GETTING OUT AND GETTING INVOLVED IN WINDSOR ESSEX IS EASY. LIVE THE LIFE YOU IMAGINE!
It is funny how a change in life is good. "Retirement" means so many different things to people. We imagine sleeping in, 5 games of golf a week, a new fishing boat, writing a book, cooking for friends, falling asleep in a hammock, going to the gym mid-day, and not having to travel in March Break. Today many retirees do not want to live in a community segregated by age. It feels unnatural. While older people sometimes like things a little quieter, they want to see young children playing on the swings at the park, and more often want to get more involved in the community, not less involved.


June 6-7 2009
ART IN THE PARK - WILLISTEAD MANOR IN WALKERVILLE


The Rotary Club is hosting this 31st annual event at Willisted Park. For those from outside Windsor Essex- Willistead was the historic home to members of the Walker family who founded Hiram Walker Distillery more than a century ago. Take a good look at the bottle of Canadian Club in your liquor cabinet to see where it is made- right here in Walkerville. The manor sits in a park which was donated by the family to the City of Windsor. Art in the park is a celebration of the arts- music, drama, visual arts, with food and fun all day.
"Art in the Park is held the first full weekend in June of each year, and is the signature event that launches Windsors festival season. This event is one of Ontario's largest outdoor arts and crafts shows with exhibitors from all over Ontario, Quebec and the state of Michigan. The exhibitors display and retail their wares in booths set up around the 15.5 acres of gated grounds surrounding the beautiful and historic Willistead Mansion in Walkerville (Windsor), Ontario." This year the hours are extended to 9pm with wine tastings and entertainment in addition to fabulous food from Mezzo restaurant on Erie St. Tickets are $5. For more information http://www.artintheparkwindsor.com/

TO SEE NEW LISTING INFORMATON ON ESSEX COUNTY HOMES, CONDOS, AND BUILDING LOTS. SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GET OUT AND TASTE SOME NEW WINES, VISIT ART IN THE PARK, AND EXPLORE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO www.neilmens.com

Monday, 25 May, 2009

PSST PASS IT ON - THE SECRET IS GETTING OUT- WINDSOR ESSEX LAUNCHES THE 100 MILE LIFESTYLE AND THE WINDSOR ESSEX PENINSULA INITIATIVES



WINDSOR ESSEX COUNTY IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO HAS SWUNG OPEN THE DOORS TO ACTIVE ADULT RETIREES. RECENT NEWSPAPER ADVERTORIALS, A BRAND NEW WEBSITE CAMPAIGN AND TOURS AVE BEEN LAUNCHED TO INFORM AND INVITE RETIREES TO LEARN ABOUT THE REGION. IT IS GREAT TO HAVE COMPANY PROMOTING THE REGION. I GUESS THE SECRET IS OUT.

WHEN INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES MOVE TO FIXED/PENSION INCOMES IN RETIREMENT, SELLING YOUR HOME IN TORONTO AND BUYING IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO MAKES GOOD ECONOMIC SENSE AND PROVIDES ALL THE SERVICES AND AMENITIES YOU NEED. YOU WILL ALSO BE VERY PLEASED WITH THE HOMETOWN FEEL, AND THE GENUINE WELCOME. I KNOW I LOVE IT!

MY BLOG RETIREWINDSOR.BLOGSPOT.COM IS INDEPENDENT AND CONTINUES WITH MORE PERSONAL REFLECTIONS ON THE WHY RETIRED SCHOOL TEACHER FROM UPPER CANADA COLLEGE IN TORONTO, AND A REAL ESTATE SALES REPRESENTATIVE WITH HARVEY KALLES REAL ESTATE LTD. BROKERAGE IN TORONTO, WOULD CHOSE WINDSOR ESSEX TO RETIRE. AS A RESULT OF MY EXPERIENCE AS AN URBAN GEOGRAPHER AND MY EXPERIENCE IN REAL ESTATE I KNOW WINDSOR ESSEX HAS THE BEST COMBINATION OF LOCATION FACTORS FOR RETIREES IN ONTARIO. I AM DELIGHTED THE MAYOR OF WINDSOR, GOVERNMENTS, AND THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY HAVE UNDERTAKEN THIS MULTI MILLION DOLLAR 4 YEAR INITIATIVE. GOOD SHOW! I LOOK FORWARD TO INTRODUCING MORE TORONTO RETIREES, AND THOSE CONTEMPLATING RETIREMENT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS TO DISCOVER THE GREAT THINGS HAPPENING IN WINDSOR ESSEX.

I NOW LIVE AND WORK IN BOTH WINDSOR AND TORONTO HAVE THE UNDERSTANDING AND UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE OF LIVING AND ENJOYING BOTH PLACES. I AM A SALES REPRESENTATIVE WITH HARVEY KALLES REAL ESTATE LIMITED BROKERAGE, ONE OF TORONTO'S FINEST INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE COMPANIES WITH OVER 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. I AM HAPPY TO MEET WITH YOU IN TORONTO TO GO OVER YOUR YOUR RETIREMENT DREAM PROPERTY NEEDS AND TIMELINE.

I LIST HOMES IN WINDSOR ESSEX COUNTY IN SOUTH WESTERN ONTARIO WITH THE TORONTO REAL ESTATE BOARD. I REPRESENT BOBLO ISLAND REAL ESTATE IN TORONTO. BOBLO IS A SHORT FERRY RIDE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG. TO SEE MY CURRENT LISTINGS IN WINDSOR ESSEX PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE. HTTP://WWW.NEILMENS.COM

THE 100 MILE LIFESTYLE is great web resource. CHECK IT OUT! HTTP://WWW.RETIREHERE.CA