The Hub July 2016 | страница 4

CONNECTING Is it our fondness for Tim Hortons? Our appreciation of bagged milk? Or our semi- apologetic niceness? As Canadians, we’re known for all that and more. I won’t tackle the problem of describing what Canadian is - or the easier description of what a Canadian is not - but I will say that, this July, I’m awfully glad to be one of them. The world seems to be falling apart at the seams this summer, with a US presidential candidate that borders on facist, a United Kingdom that’s quickly becoming divided and refugees still seeking asylum from extremism around the world. Hatred and intolerance for “different” are in the foreground everywhere you turn. Not that Canada’s perfect, mind you. But we do seem more focused on looking for ways to make our communities and neighbourhoods stronger. That, and appreciating the fact that it’s not snowing. And down here in Windsor-Essex, we’re the perfect microcosm of our larger country. I watched from my downtown balcony as the riverfront fireworks goers streamed home the other night. Families of all shapes, sizes, ages and combinations passed by. Burqas, ao dais and tank tops were apparent, as were hipster ponytails and military buzz cuts. And everyone was in a good mood, having celebrated a shared experience. No shootings or stabbings marred the headlines next day. It made me proud to be a Windsorite. Here at The Hub, we hope you’re proud to be from Windsor-Essex too. Too give you something more to brag about, we’ve brought you stories of amazing local racers and the beautiful community of Belle River, along with a plethora of ways to share experiences at area events this month. It’s the perfect month to celebrate all that makes us who we are. Don’t forget the double-double! Today, while Canadians everywhere celebrate Canada Day, here in our small corner of Southwestern Ontario, I'm also celebrating my daughter's birthday. Like all beginnings, it was tinged with uncertainty and determination but most of all, celebration. While she needed some assistance in taking her first breath, she hasn't looked back since that auspicious day, 28 years ago. With the speed of life quickening its pace by the minute, it's milestones like birthdays and anniversaries that force us to look back and reflect . Was it always easy? Did it go off without a hitch? Was is smooth sailing all the way? Chances are that the answer to these questions is a resounding “No," whether you're talking about the birth of a country, a community, its citizens or the creation of a local digital magazine called The Hub. We conceived, we nurtured, we continue to grow. To show our appreciation for the continued support of our readers and advertisers we're offering YOU a present. Check out the details on page 23 and enter to win a dinner cruise or a sightseeing cruise for 2 with Windsor River Cruises. One a broader scale, in this issue we continue to celebrate all the things that make Essex County unique. Check out our regular columns as well as features to get a closer look at our past, our present, and the direction we seem to be heading. If that isn't enough, our calendar of events will keep you hopping all month long.! Eva Shelley Please direct advertising or subscription inquiries to [email protected] Managing Editors Eva Antonel Shelley Divnich Haggert Rabiul Biplob, Christian Bouchard, David Dyck, Angelica Haggert Brett Henderson Windsor Essex County Health Unit Connect With Us! [email protected] facebook.com/thehubwindsoressex @TheHubWE 4 The HUB - July 2016 Copyright 2016 The Write Side Up Inc. & Audacity Design Group Inc. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any way without the written permission of the publishers. The Hub is published 11 times a year by The Write Side Up Inc. & Audacity Design Group Inc. Articles and advertisements in The Hub do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of any product, service or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any product, idea or statement which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.