So after a few days all the girls have settled in and are finally starting to remember each others names! So far its been a 5:15am! This is what time we had to get up at so we could get ready and make it on time to breakfast. Then after breakfast we met up with the other girls who slept in and all went on a Hippo bus/boat ride. This was very exciting because it took us on land and into the water. We then got a tour of Toronto. After we saw those amazing views we were able to go to the CN Tower!

View from CN Tower

I was thrilled when we arrived at the top, considering it was my first time EVER on it! After we took millions of pictures and visited the glass floor we went to go eat lunch at “The Ballroom.” While waiting for our lunch to be made we were bowling! This is a very good atmosphere to be around. All the workers and customers are very happy and lively! After our great bowling experience we headed back to the hotel to practice out walks. About an hour or so of doing that we got changed and went out for dinner. We had dinner at a Greek restaurant called “Arkantha” which was amazing. The staff and food were excellent and would highly recommend this place to anyone!

So far this trip has been amazing and cant wait to see whats up for the rest of the week!

Keep updated!

Monica Borrelli

wear would be provided by “Me to We.” “Me to We” would be one of the shows biggest sponsors and every so often there would be a raffle where the viewers would have a chance at winning $500.00 to this store. “Me to We” always has great deals and amazing prices on their clothing. Check it out at http://www.metowestyle.com.

Another great twist that makes this show exciting and fulfilling to watch is the famous celebrities that would be starring as guests. Some of these people would be Tony Horton (P90X), Arnold Schwarzenegger, Shane Sparks (So You Think You Can Dance), Ali Ramirez (Zumba Instructor). These guest speakers would talk about their workout programs and how they stay fit on a regular basis. Also, if they decide to, they would be able to take lead and instruct the show for one full episode.  Not only is the show about exercising but it is also about the importance of healthy eating. The episodes focusing on nutrition would show people how to eat a healthy balanced diet as well as how to prepare some healthy meals. In an effort to broaden the users options, I would travel around the world to various countries and places to find the healthiest foods available.  Most of the foods that I find would be based on whether or not it is good for a diabetic person to eat. This is because my platform is to promote awareness for diabetes and it is something I strongly believe in. Over the years I have found that many people are affected by this disease and it has become a real epidemic. Even if you don’t have diabetes, the food choices that I choose would still be healthy for everyone, either way it is a win-win situation. While traveling around the world I would also stop at local Canadian farms to see how healthy the food they grow really is and to promote local growth. This is because farms make the food we eat and we all want to make sure that what we put in out mouth is clean and won’t damage our bodies. One major sponsor of the “Essex County Fitness” TV show is “ShaSha Bread.” They provide the audience with various types of healthy products that they make which include flat bread, buckwheat snacks and sourdough bread.  In the show I really encourage people to buy products from this company because they are healthy, low in sugar, and is made from the finest qualities of grain. You can check out their wide selection at http://www.shashabread.com.

My TV show would be applicable to every age group and gender.  If people can’t or don’t want to pay money to go to the gym or buy expensive workout programs they can  just switch to “Essex County Fitness” and work out in their homes! It runs 3 times a week with a variety of different things showing on each episode. The show is constantly rerunning throughout the day so you won’t ever miss it. Whether you want to exercise by yourself or with a group of people this TV show can do it! “Essex County Fitness” is made to fit your schedule!

As most of us know “Free the Children” is an organization where the youth is empowered to help out those who are living in poverty in 3 world countries. There are over 60 different corporate partners but the one that I choose to do research on is CTV. CTV is the largest and Official Broadcast Partner of Free the Children’s signature event, We Day. Since 2007, CTV has broadcast highlights from We Day and last year streamed the entire event live in its entirety on CTV.ca. We Day reinforce CTV’s commitment to socially relevant programming fostering change (CTV, 2011). The link below is written by CTV and is a brief summary of what “Free the Children” is all about.

http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/DanceHub2/20081014/metowe_about_freethechildren/

Why did CTV become involved with “Free the Children?”

CTV became involved with “Free the Children” because once they gained knowledge about what the organization was all about, they thought it was a great and wanted to help promote. They were so interested in the organization that they signed a contract to broadcast WE DAY, which is an event created by “Free the Children”, for the next 3 years on their prime-time special. CTV thinks that this is an amazing cause and they got involved because they want to be a part of it and help change the world. The video attached is a commercial CTV put together to promote WE DAY.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rs-Ci8JAHHY

How partnership is benefited?

WE DAY

The partnership between CTV and “Free the Children” works both ways. CTV is promoting free the children all over the internet and news which means that the organization is getting there name out. “Free the Children” is being broadcasted all over Canada but more importantly people are working towards this great cause. At the same time CTV is being seen as a very charitable and caring company. The viewers of CTV are going to recognize the important of what the company is doing and will honor their station more than they would for others. Not only is the company being benefited but also the workers in the station. The partnership in general could lead to a chain reaction with other television stations. This is because they will see what CTV is doing and how much they are benefiting from it and they will want the same for their company.

WE DAY is a very fun and eventful day for everyone. The videos below are short inspiring clips on how we can make a different. Also, they show all the excitement and fun that everyone has on this day!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVuZ5NTcn6Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZPQg2vfGiU&NR=1&feature=fvwp

I hope you guys all learned something new from this post! Keep updated!

Monica Borrelli

Hello Everyone,

As many of you know I am from Windsor, Ontario and although it may seem like a small place, it has a lot to offer. All cultures are welcome here and throughout the year there are various events and activities going on to get the community involved.

Peace Fountain

The best view that Windsor has to offer is the Windsor/Detroit River. It is right on riverside drive and it is one of the most popular places. Anywhere you stand you have an amazing view of looking over the river and seeing all the lights and buildings that Detroit has to offer. There is a pathway right next to the water so that people can walk, run, bike, roller blade, etc and enjoy the view. Also, there is a peace fountain on the river and at night the fountain glows with different colors. Many people go to the fountain when they are stressed and just want to find peace. This is such a beautiful place to be when you need time to think and be alone. Every year they have different festivals and entertainment that are held right at the river. Basically this is a getaway for those who live in Windsor. If you are touring Windsor this is definitely a sight that you should visit!

If your on riverside enjoying the beautiful view of the water and get a bit hunger the perfect place for you to go is “The Bistro.” This restaurant opened up a few years ago and has had nothing but good feedback. The Bistro is open morning till night and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Since there  is such a large variety in there food, all ages are encouraged to come eat here.

The Strip Downtown

This isn’t your typical restaurant so be sure to dress to impress! If your of age, 19, and are looking to have some fun on a Friday or Saturday night, downtown Windsor the place for you. Ouellette Avenue a long road that is full of night clubs, shops, and restaurants. If your ever looking to catch a drink with some friends or just want to dance this where you should be. Reason why everyone likes going here is because every night club is inside of this strip. They are all located on the same road which means they are walking distances. From talking to friends and family members that are 19 and older, they all said that the most popular bars are Revival, Treehouse, White Star, and Honest Lawyers. If you are ever looking for fun and are 19 and older, you should check out Ouellette Avenue.

Another attraction to see is the Caesars Windsor Casino. Once again you must be 19 and older to go into the Casino but to go into the hotel you can be any age. The view from the hotel is amazing! It outlooks all of Windsor and Detroit. The Casino is a very popular place for of aged people because there are always entertainment going on. Singers, comedians, actors, and musicians are always performing and putting on great shows for the community. You must be at least 19 to see the shows but there are some exceptions for certain artist.

Right next to the Casino there is a restaurant called “The Keg.” The food at this place is t!o die for. The food is cooked and prepared very well and since the restaurant is located downtown Windsor it has a great view.  Although it is a bit expensive it is worth trying if your are a tourist in Windsor.

Walking in Jackson Park

Aside from all the night life in Windsor there are many other attractions that are worth seeing. I would highly recommend going to Jackson Park. This is a magnificent park full of different flowers. You will find any type of flower and tree in this park. In the center of the park there is a fountain and it allows you to through pennies and dimes in it and make a wish. This park is very relaxing and peaceful and there is not admission, it is free!

The Windsor Art Gallery is located on the riverfront and is something you should make time for when you come to Windsor. There are many different paintings, sculptures, drawings, photography, etc in this building. Like all art galleries it is a very quiet place but they do have auctions and shows every now and then.

A many tour that they have running throughout the entire year is at the Canadian Club Brand Center. This is where Windsors Whiskey is made and exported to many different places. All ages are invited to this tour because it is very educational. You learn all about the prohibition that happened and how many famous people such as, Al Capone, smuggled and transported alcohol into Canada from the United States. They put on a great tour and if your legal they let you taste their alcoholic beverages.

Contestant and Myself

If you are visiting Windsor in the month of May to August there will be many festivals that you will be able to experience. In the end of May early June they have the “Strawberry Festival” which is in Lasalle, Ontario. At this festival there are many games and rides for young kids to go on. Also, they have a pageant called “Miss Lasalle” and they have many musical bands that perform for the crowd. They sell tons of strawberries with ice cream and it taste amazing! There is a 2 dollar admission but it is definitely worth it.

All through the months of June and July there is a festival called the “Freedom Festival.” This festival is mainly aimed towards Canada Day, July 1st. There are fireworks on this night and many bands and performs throughout both months. To keep many families outdoors and entertained they keep the rides and games for both months. This festival is downtown Windsor, right on the river.

At the end of August there is a festival called the “Corn Festival” and it is located in Tecumseh, Ontario. This is where lots of corn is eaten by the community. All ages are invited to this festival and there are rides, games, and performers. There is a pageant called “Miss Tecumseh.” I competed in this pageant last summer and must say it was an amazing experiences. The show that is put on is wonderful, very entertaining. Also, there are many competitions for children to take part in such as corn eating contest. This festival last for about 4 days and it is worth going to if your are touring Windsor.

If you need a place to stay you should book a night or two at the Caesars Windsor Hotel or the Holiday Inn. Both places are located downtown which means they are close to everything so you wont need a car. They have very good security so you will be able to feel safe throughout your whole stay. Also, there prices are very reasonable so you wont have to worry about spending a fortune. Both hotels are ranked 5 stars and are full of luxury so that you feel at home!

If you want a shopping getaway try our biggest mall in Windsor, “Devonshire Mall.” Most tourist might not be impressed with how small it is but once you go inside you will be on a shopping spree. There is different types of clothes for every one. All body shapes, colors, heights, etc, are welcome here! Price are very reasonable and there are always great deals going on. There is a food court so you can grab a bit while you shop!

Although Windsor might  be small, there is a lot it has to offer and no matter what season it may be there are always things to do. You can never get bored in Windsor!

Hope you enjoyed learning about my hometown! Keep Updated!

Monica Borrelli

Just wanted to fill you in on what recently happened!

Morgan, Catherine, Danielle

Students on Lunch

On May10th I had a fundraiser at my school to raise money for my platform, which is to raise awareness for diabetes. Every student was to bring in 2 dollars and they would be able to get an out of uniform day (dress down day). This was a great success and I got a very good turnout. I educated my entire school about diabetes for a week straight over the video announcements. Not only did the students of St. Anne High School learn about diabetes but they also learned what the MTCW pageant is all about. This fundraiser was very exciting for me because I was able to see all the people that supported me in my works.

Carlie, Nakita, Me, Morgan

The photo to the right is myself and three friends that helped me out the whole day.The four of us went around to each classroom and collected money from whoever dressed down and stamped their hands so the teachers could identify who paid and who didn’t.  I am very grateful for these girls because without them there would have been no way that I would have been able to accomplish all of this! I am very thankful that they took time out of their day to help me out with such a great cause.

Also, on Sunday May 15th there was a walk for the Canadian Diabetes Associations. This event was called “The Flame of Hope Walk, Run, & Ride.” I and a young boy who lives with diabetes were able to light an 11 foot flame of hope. This was an experience that I will remember forever. Not only did I raise money for my platform but I won a trip to Montreal in doing so! I placed 2nd in raising the most money for this event and my prize was a trip. So excited to plan this!I don’t have the pictures from this even yet but I will definitely post pictures in my next blog to show you the outcome of this event. Keep updated!

Monica Borrelli

Hi Everyone,

My name is Monica Borrelli and many of you might not know me too well but I am from Windsor, ON and I am representing Essex County. I am currently attending St. Anne High School and I am finishing my last year, grade 12. Going through four years of high school can really change a person and at the age of 17 I have come to realize a lot of things about life and myself. I’ve learned how to view situations from other people’s perspectives and learned that there is reasoning behind everything. I like to think of myself as an extremely optimistic and giving person. I believe that the reason why I am this way is due to the amount of love I am surrounded by from my family and friends. With a big Italian family constantly being around you, there is always love! I am very grateful for everything my family and friends give me but the one moment that changed my life is when I watched the movie “Pay it Forward.” (Pay It Forward) To pay it forward means when someone helps you out, you help someone different out and it becomes a chain reaction. I truly believe that if everyone lived by this, the world we live in would be viewed completely different.

Ever since the Miss Teen Ontario Pageant in November 2010, I have been a lot more involved in my community. For example, I became the co-chair of the Canadian Diabetes Associations team in Windsor and we have been working towards a lot of events and fundraisers. I am very passionate in this team for various reasons that you will soon read about in my next post! Other things I am passionate about and good at is dancing. I love to dance because I feel that it frees your soul and lets out a lot of stress. Through different types of dance you can express different emotions while dancing out a story to the audience. I find this to be very fun because I love performing in front of large crowds of people. Other fun things that I like to do are spending time with family and friends, going to yoga classes, going for runs, and shopping! Although my favorite color is pink, any shade, I usually don’t buy a lot of clothing that is pink.

Amanda, Morgan, Carlie, Me, Nakita

I have to say that I have the great group of best friends.The six of us, me, Nakita,Lexie, Christina, Amanda, and Morgan do everything together. We have an incredible relationship that literally no one could ever break.Not only do I have a good relationship with my best friends but I am extremely closewith my family. For example, my cousin, Mariana, is the only person that knows me better than myself.

Nakita, Amanda, Christina, Morgan, Me, Lexie

Also, I have three olderbrothers that I am extremely close with. Never would I have thought that I would have the best relationship with them even though they are very protective of me! And of course my parents are the best thing that has happened to me due to everything they have given me. I am so grateful for all of these people that are in my life and how supportive they are of everything I do.

Borrelli Family

A big part of any pageant is to have a platform and I think that the contestant’s platform should be something meaningful to them. The reason for it being meaningful is because if it’s something you are supportive about then you are going to work harder to make your platform speak volumes to people. I know that all of the girls will choose a platform that is close to their hearts and I can’t wait to hear what they are. The final week of the pageant will be exciting. I cannot wait to meet all of the beautiful young ladies and spend a week with them! I’m not too sure what to expect but I know that I will cherish their friendships and memories forever.

The sponsors of the Miss Teen Canada pageant have been wonderful, especially Shasha Bread Co and their healthy snacks for all of the contestants, and of course the Internet marketing firm PageOne who helped us all with our blogs.

Hopefully you guys got to learn a little bit about me but there’s a lot more on its way! Keep updated!

Thank You,

Monica Borrelli