Donna Villeneuve, a native of Oshawa, doesn’t consider herself as someone who jumps into trend bandwagons, at least not when it comes to fashion. She does however; admit to having a slight “obsession” with joining trendy and hip fitness classes, like TRX and Zumba – something she swears by as a different form of exercise, but one that’s done amazing things for her body. In fact, she says she’s officially hooked to the workout.

Bet you haven’t heard of these regiments right? That’s alright; lots of people don’t know what they are either.

The TRX system is a popular and new trend that traces its roots to an ex-navy SEAL who sought to keep his squad in shape. TRX is primarily focused on forms of weight training, using the body for resistance. It’s quite similar to some forms of yoga that require complete balance.

Zumba on the other hand, is a more popular fitness craze that gives a high-intensity cardio workout bound to challenge even the most experienced fitness buffs. The program is said to have started in the 90’s in the country of Columbia (Zumba does have a South American ring to it). The workout is a mish-mash of dance styles like cha-cha, salsa, belly dancing and even modern day hip-hop. Yes, it’s quite hard to imagine, you’ve got to see it for yourself.

So there you go. If you want to try these relatively new exercise plans, look them up at the web, or consult a fitness instructor in your area. Who knows, it just might work for you.

Employees from Oshawa’s General Motors plant are in for some good new as GM recently announced that the plant will start production of Buick’s new Regal model in 2011. The development was particularly well-received by Oshawa’s GM factory workers, who haven’t had any good news in a long time, largely due to the company’s financial woes and the global economic crisis.

The new Buick Regal sports a sleek design along with an interactive drive expected to draw in consumers. The model is inspired by the 2009 European Car of the Year, the Opel Insignia, and is included in the renaissance for the Buick brand, this according to General Motors spokesperson Adria MacKenzie.

She further states that the Regal is a complete overhaul of the Insignia, and as a result has been scoring positive reviews.

Aside from warm consumer reviews, the Insignia’s sales figures in the Chinese and European markets have been impressive, with sales in Europe expected to reach 150,000 for 2009.

Exprerts agree that this latest development is connected to the agreement GM made with workers as well as the federal and provincial governments last year.

Whatever the case, the news comes with great timing. It’s certainly a breath of fresh air for workers who expected to enter the holidays with low expectations for a better future.

If you’re new to Oshawa, one of the best places to head to when you’re looking for a good old time is the The Down ‘Omer. Sure, the joint might not have a website or that much information available on the internet—although a few local fans attend to a Down ‘Omer Facebook page—but it’s maintained a steadfast and diehard following for over 40 years and counting. The Down ‘Omer prefers to let their offerings speak for themselves, with great live music, delicious food, a friendly staff, and a traditional pub feel awaiting those enter this historically colorful bar.

Situated on Ritson, which is just two blocks north of Hwy.401, the Down ‘Omer—or Omer as it’s called by the locals—is a small bar that packs a punch with its daily roster of happenings. The place is currently owned and managed by Robin and Sutha, and for the last six years has come up and put into effect ideas that have made the bar immensely popular in the area.

To give you a sneak peek, the bar serves chicken-wings by the pound on Monday to Wednesday, Thursday is steak night, Friday is halibut special, while pasta is the dish to get on Saturdays.

For entertainment, open mic and karaoke nights are scattered throughout the week. On some nights, local talented musicians take the stage to entertain guests.

So, does that sound good enough for you? Head down to the Down ‘Omer if you’re in town, you won’t regret it. We promise.

The 2015 Pan Am Games are expected to bring good opportunities to the Greater Toronto area, something that local construction stakeholders are very excited about.

Out of the other countries vying for the chance to play host to the event like Lima, Peru, and Bogota, Colombia, Toronto was lucky enough to be picked during the first round of voting, which took place earlier this month.

John Mollenhauer, president of the Toronto Construction Association, says he and his colleagues are absolutely thrilled at the possibilities and prospects the Pan Am Games will bring to the community. He comments that hosting such a large-scale event will not only generate much needed jobs, it will also direct cash flow on much needed improvements and developments.

Although the winning bid is centered on Toronto, it is more focused on the regional level, largely improving already existing facilities as well constructing new ones in areas such as Hamilton, Markham and Oshawa.

Although still far away, locals are already buzzing about the event, which is set to take place on the proposed dates of July 10 to July 26, 2015. The Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games on the other hand are proposed to take place on August 7 to August 14, 2015.

Oshawa Ontario, the Motor City of Canada, is home to General Motors Canada and the estate of its founder, Parkwood Estate – now made a historical site and starring in famous movies like X-Men. The company has always been the driving force of the city’s economy ever since it’s founding in 1876. But there is a lot more to the city beyond the motor industry.

Located 60 km facing east of Toronto, Oshawa boasts of more than 2,000 acres of open space and parklands to explore among them Lakeview Park of Lake Ontario. Natural habitat complemented with a number of exciting and fun festivities all year round and the presence of the largest shopping mall in the region should be more than enough for anyone regardless of age or origin.

Keep in touch to know more of our city’s upcoming events and the places to stay and visit!