The West End Business Improvement Zone is an organization dedicated to enhancing communities in the area.

One upcoming West End BIZ activity is Skates & Badges, an event hosted by the Winnipeg Police Service Patrolman Hockey Team, the BIZ, and the Central Neighbourhoods Development Corp., during which inner-city youth and families get to learn how to skate.

The event is held at Central Park with refreshments on hand, and skates made available by participants. Those coming out to take in the event — in particular the many recent newcomers living near the park — will be introduced to outdoor winter activities and can get to know the sponsoring groups and community.

Another event will be held at X-Cues Billiards & Cafe (at 551 Sargent Ave.), where an annual Christmas Eve Feast will be enjoyed on Sat., Dec. 24.

Three hundred pre-registered West End residents and recent immigrants, recommended by local community groups and social service agencies, will partake in a traditional holiday meal. There will be live music, a visit from Santa, and gifts for attendees. BIZ staff work with volunteers and the BIZ Patrol will provide a safety presence.

One of this year’s BIZ projects is the West End Dining Guide that lists the diverse culinary choices (including specialty food stores) in the area.

Another BIZ project is Power Play, an incredible mural project done to commemorate hockey history and the return of the NHL. The West End team, Winnipeg Falcons, were the first Olympic Gold medal winners.

As well, the BIZ created the International Village Gateway feature (behind the University of Winnipeg on Ellice Avenue at Balmoral Street) as part of its ongoing International Village themes for Sargent and Ellice avenues.

In addition to regular programming, plans for the coming year include a contest aimed at drawing hundreds folks to seek out the West End and learn what the area has to offer as well as the Live at Lunch entertainment series.

Rebeca Kuropatwa is a community correspondent for the West End. You can contact her at beca72ca@yahoo.ca.