The agency says the 2009 study produced results similar to those of the last survey done in 2004, before the Conservatives took power and began their tough-on-crime campaign. Crime rates overall have been falling for a decade.

Youth crime is one of the few areas that has risen, yet the study says slightly more younger Canadians were satisfied with their personal safety from crime than older Canadians — 94 per cent of those ages 15-24 compared to 90 per cent aged 65 years and older.

About 83 per cent of respondents said they were not at all worried when home alone in the evening, while 90 per cent who walked alone in their neighbourhoods at night said they felt safe doing so.

The Conservative government of Stephen Harper has made controversial anti-crime legislation a central tenet of its mandate, claiming Canadians want Ottawa to get tough on crime. Critics complain the Tory legislation boosting sentences for some crimes, imposing mandatory minimums and stripping two-for-one credit for time served is based more on ideology than evidence.

Opposition MPs and some provinces — which stand to bear the brunt of costs to keep more people in jail and for longer periods — have complained the Conservatives ignored the advice of experts and did not provide cost estimates for their sweeping changes.

The study indicates those living in Eastern Canada, where crime rates are generally lower, were more satisfied with their personal safety than Westerners, who form the base of Tory support. But not by much.

Residents of Prince Edward Island were among those with the highest levels of satisfaction, at 97 per cent, while residents in British Columbia were among those with the lowest, at 89 per cent. Among cities, levels of satisfaction with personal safety were highest in Moncton, N.B. and Kingston, Guelph and Oshawa, Ont. They were lowest in Vancouver, Winnipeg and Edmonton.

These were the views expressed by some of the provincial politicians and government dignitaries, who spoke at the recently held Open House organized by the Centre for Newcomers, a Calgary-based premier non-profit immigrant serving agency last week.

The Centre, whose mission is to achieve the integration of newcomers in the community through services and initiatives that promote diversity, participation and citizenship, recently relocated at a prime location and hosted an Open House to showcase the new venue and a bouquet of services that it offers to immigrants and newcomers to Canada.

Calgary MLA Teresa Woo Paw speaks at the Centre for Newcomers Open House on November 17. She brought in messages from Alberta Premier Alison Redford and Alberta Minister Heather Klimchuk and spoke about the good work that Centre for Newcomers is doing in Calgary.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Teresa Woo-Paw, MLA, Calgary McKay, who brought in messages from Alberta Premier Alison Redford and Alberta Minister of Culture and Community Services Heather Klimchuk said: “We, from the government understand that supporting the work of the Centre for Newcomers is good for Alberta, as new Canadians who come are anxious to make their contributions.”

Calgary’s growing economy and cultural diversity continues to draw immigrants from all over the world.  In 2010, 16,100 of the 32,640 immigrants in Alberta came to Calgary.   The government at the local, provincial and federal level continues to support immigrant serving agencies in enhancing the services provided to newcomers.

Deputy Mayor Alderman Jim Stevenson was impressed by the facility but more so with the “model of welcoming people from around the world.”  He further stated: “Diversity is a sign of international city and Calgary is often cited as a model of diversity and education.  It is important for the city to help them (immigrants) integrate into the community.”

With the projected increase in the number of immigrants, the role of immigrant serving agencies is crucial to the integration of newcomers.  Projections show that in five years, Alberta will have a shortage of manpower to meet the demands of the labor market, build the economy and sustain its population.

The Open House ceremony, thronged by many government dignitaries, was marked by a guided tour through the new facility, an interactive display of the Centre’s services, children’s program, multicultural dance, speeches by partners and service-users and a lot of bonhomie.

The Centre for Newcomers Executive Director Dale Taylor and Board Chairperson Ken Doerksen said they look forward to future partnerships and collaborations and demonstrate how our collective efforts contribute to enhancing the lives of all Calgarians.

The Centre’s new address is 1010, 999 36 Street NE, Calgary, Alberta.

Writers Bio: Peeyush Agnihotri is a writer with 14 years of international journalistic experience, mostly reporting on social and sustainable development issues. A National Foundation of India fellowship holder, he is currently based in Calgary

As for the causes of this large gap, the authors pinpoint three economic factors: the supply of rental accommodation, the state of the labour market and the rate of in-migration. However, the authors argue that the overriding factor is the supply of rental accommodation or affordable housing.

As Calgary’s labour market expands, more and more people are attracted to the city, therefore increasing the demand for rental accommodation. Data used in the study indicates that there are 38 rental units per 1,000 people in Calgary.

“With a small and falling supply of rental accommodations and the local housing market’s failure to expand supply, this results in upward pressure on shelter use,” the authors write.

Meanwhile, in Edmonton there is a larger supply of affordable housing at 86 units per 1,000 people. The authors argue this allows the city to adjust more easily to in-migration and curtails their homelessness numbers.

The authors note with concern the possibility that the recent fall in shelter use is due to the recent slowdown in the Calgary economy and that shelter use will increase again when the economy recovers.

Therefore, the authors recommend that ways be found “to engage the energy and efficiency of the private sector” to increase the supply of rental accommodations in Calgary. In this way shelter use might permanently be reduced. Based on previous research by The School of Public Policy, possible measures could include implementing a housing tax credit modeled on the US Low Income Housing Tax Credit; relaxing current rules for investors in multi-unit rental buildings on the use of the capital cost allowance when there is a rental loss; and controls on demolition and condominium conversions.

The paper can be found at http://policyschool.ucalgary.ca/publications

Watch for the hot pink Cupcake Diner on wheels, parked in the downtown core of the city as well as at special events. Owner Natalie Ravoi tapped into her love of baking and took it to the streets, literally, and created Canada’s first mobile cupcake shop. She bakes gourmet cupcakes daily with a retro twist.

People line up for varieties like caramel apple pie, chocolate and peanut butter, the 1950s Classic (à la Hostess cupcakes), lemon meringue and raspberry white chocolate. Plus she offers gluten-free and vegan variations, too.

But before diving into dessert, there’s heartier fare to be had. You can’t miss Canada’s only grilled cheese food truck. Look for the gorilla. It’s a sign that you’ve found Gorilla Cheese, owned by Graeme Smith and Scott Austin.

Smith went to Liaison College to become a professional chef and Austin is a grass roots foodie himself. They came up with the idea for a grilled cheese truck, a perfect fit for comfort-food craving urbanites. These aren’t just any garden-variety sandwiches, but gourmet, grilled-to-order ones, made with real cheese from Jensen’s, an Ontario cheese maker based in Simcoe. They’re gooey and wonderful, served alongside tomato soup and baked beans, all made from scratch.

Roving the area called the Golden Horseshoe, stretching from Toronto to Niagara Falls, is El Gastronomo Vagabundo. It’s a joint Australia-Canada project, thanks to its owners Tamara Jensen and Adam Hynam-Smith, a professionally trained chef from Down Under.

They have been serving up tantalizing mobile eats, like heirloom tomato and watermelon salad, Asian specialties, and gourmet tacos like Thai coconut red curry and tempura salmon. Ingredients are sourced from small local producers, making this a true grass-roots operation. To catch El Gastro on the move, follow them on Twitter or Facebook. You’ll likely spot them at Flat Rock

Cellars winery in Jordan on the weekend or the St. Catharines farmer’s market.

Article courtesy of the Canadian Tourism Commission Media Centre

Writers Bio: Michele Sponagle (m.sponagle@sympatico.ca) is a travel writer based in Paris, ON, who has sampled hotel beds in more than 50 countries.

No one has ever captured a vineyard’s magic in words, or music, or even pictures.  Vineyards are amazing places that have entranced people for centuries. Poets have written wistful and profound verses about them. This is my backyard, The County…a more serene and gentler Canadian version of Ptown.

Here I am already at Keint-He Winery with Bryan Rogers. Every bottle of wine is personally made by the winemaker and only 100% hillier grapes.  It’s going to be a Pinot morning! There is a philosophy of producing wine in the traditional Burgundian methodology and adhering to organic vineyard practices. With 30 acres of high density, 90% being Pinot Noir, although less fruit is produced, the sacrifice gives rise to “intense flavour”. So should I try the Foxtail, Little Creek Classic or Little Creek Benway…I think there is a water theme evolving. The pinots are vegan fruit, unfined, unfiltered and barrel aged, they are not rushed. It is to reproduce the methodology and understand the wine as a new world classic experience. The setting with the use of stone and the wood is reminiscent of a “voyageur” rustic building. But what’s this…an 08 Nord Pineaux Sauvage…a botrytis affected wine, “Noble Rot”. What a find! What next?  What sets Keint-He apart further is that they are one winery with three distinct vineyards, each possessing its own unique terroir.  Time to head due west for all of 1 minute!

I see banners! Bright colours! Time for a fiesta, really in the County? It’s Sandbanks Winery, a light airy…time to seize the day with that French saying “Joie de vivre”! Wine is fun and is paired with life, imagine that!  Well I guess since Sandbanks started in the kitchen, the feel is relaxing…a glass of wine, some cheese and outdoors you go to just kick back. It makes the heart feel good! It is a fruit forward experience with the goal being to offer wine for good value and fair trade. Here there are wines for everyone and that are easy to pair with food. Two 100% County ones strike me: a Baco Reserve 09 aged for 18 months in American oaks, fruity, intense, juicy, juicy, juicy, as one of my art teachers used to say! And the Mouton Noir (Black Sheep, LOL) a Marechal Foch…I can taste the dirt, the terroir, the earth…and that is a good thing. I’m feeling the love! Sandbanks Estate Winery is a family owned winery situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario, in the heart of beautiful Prince Edward County.   Catherine Langlois invites you to enjoy wine tasting in their charming boutique, explore the estate or sit back and relax in their inviting vineyard setting, but it ‘s time to go.

Going north on hwy 33, The Loyalist Parkway, I see the sign Harwood Estates Vineyards. That took 3 minutes. Going through the three vineyards that are tended by hand, I come upon a domed metal clad galvanized steel structure. The tasting room is the winery; you are surrounded by all that equipment while sipping Pinot Noir, Pinot St. Laurent or Pinot Gris. By the way, these are owners Kerry Wicks and John Rode’s favourites. Although wine is alone without food, so they say… the Friends Rose with its strawberry pallet is vivacious, all by itself! If I may digress, last time I was here at an evening BBQ I cultivated an affinity to the Gewürztraminer 2009. I was drawn to it exotic taste. Harwoods Gewürztraminer 2009 is elegant, perfumy wine, showing classic rose petal notes and the classic Hillier minerality. But then there is the Pinot Gris 2009 a crisp, clean white wine, with a hint of grapefruit, best served well-chilled. Every Harwood visit is a winery tour. Time to scoot across a back road up to Closson Road, over hill and over dale.

How I love that old split rail wooden fencing zig-zaging by the side of the country lane guiding me to The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyard Estate and Winery. Like most in The County, it is a family-run agri-business. For Caroline Granger it is all about balance and authenticity…grown and bottled on the farm. With 60 acres under vine, the farm is home to 6 distinct vineyard blocks and 7 varieties of grapes to make it one of the larger vineyards in Canada and one of my neighbours. The place is a dichotomy…a winery with all the new fandangled equipment set amidst a farm operating for over 207 years housed in a hand honed beam barn built 1826. I feel like I am coming home for thanks giving. The wines are likened to an orchestra finding perfect balance, perfect pitch and the perfect arrangement but always searching for constant improvement. The wines are divided into 2 categories. Trumpour’s Mill is the more affordable line. If you are looking to explore and experiment discover GPE, the smaller production series of sexy wines-smaller lot processed and hand sorted. Boy, that sounds like a lot work! On a general note, the whites are peachy with a bit of lime and grapefruit but the reds…wait for it…are warmed sweet beet root with earthiness. Although the cabernet franc is the good child and more noble grape, it is the 07 Diana Block Pinot Noir that is best and only getting better! And they have a sparkling…how I love those bubbles! Sorry I get carried away when it comes to those little bubbles!

Continuing on my Hillier Horn Trip- Huff Estates Winery. A modern monolithic facility created by Lanny Huff with one thing in mind, producing high quality wines. Check this out, there is a moat-surrounded patio and a heli-pad. So here I run into Fred Picard and we chat about the experience of farming. How does one relate the grapes into the wine? There are several factors at play: the terroir, the micro climate, the taste of the grape, the knowledge, the research, the challenge…all this to know how to transfer the essence of the grape into a bottle. And be consistent year over year. In this way you should be able to recognize what you drink, “the cepage” and there should be NO surprises…here is that balance thing again!   His philosophy is to be true to the earth and you are given one chance to take everything nature has given you to a simple way with some chemistry, bottle it! On a lighter note it is about learning and having fun so…here’s to the 08 Chardonay vintage barrel aged and the 2010 pinot gris that are chalked full of fruit and underlying floral notes. And OMG…they have sparkling!

Next, heading towards Picton, I am off to see Geoff Webb at the Black Prince Winery. Just outside of town, The Prince is a ten acre vineyard that grows Chardonnay, Cab Franc and some hybrids.  One of the pioneering wineries of the local scene, The Black Prince Winery is a very co-operative character – over the last 10 years helping launch 4 new wineries here. Since 2002 Black Prince Winery has sourced local grapes and continues to work with many local growers exclusively. The ultimate in “local” is the Prince’s Chardonnay Terroir Elite – the first County wine to be aged in local County oak barrels.  Watch for the awesome 2010 vintage to be released soon – without a doubt the best vintage yet.  And guess what’s coming? A very exciting Merlot and Cabernet Franc Reserve along with the Chardonnay, all aged in local Prince Edward County oak barrels, of course. Plus there is one of the largest selections of wines all under one roof.  As per Geoff, One Winery – Many Terroir, The Prince will bring a smile to your lips! Time to turn around and head home.

Back into the truck, last but not least here is a toast to owner’s Sally and Rob Peck of Sugarbush Vineyards which just happens to be on my way home. Theirs is the garagiste winery of Prince Edward County. Garagiste:\GA-razh-EEST\ n. fr.  A passionate winemaker who creates limited production premium wine in a garage-sized winery, specializing in small lot, artisanal wines made entirely from our estate-grown grapes.  Don’t you just love it! All of their vintages are produced entirely from grapes hand harvested from their vineyard.  The Riesling/Gewürztraminer although only 20% Gewürz, the silky Gewürztraminer viscosity pushes through a beautiful floral nose and here is the fruit- pear, grapefruit and a twist of lemon finish.  The un-oaked Chardonnay tantalizes the nose and the palette. So what can I say, Prince Edward County soils add a fantastic minerality and finesse to the wine.

It’s been a long day…my Hillier Horn Trip has been a success. I’ve tasted, sampled the “terroir” and even gotten a bit of that famous Hillier clay loam on my boots. The gps is set for home and up Chase Road I go! So all I need now … is a glass of wine. LOL!

Writers Bio: Michael and Dean of  f a d: funktional art and design  have created Out in The County to provide recommendations for the gay and lesbian (GL) traveler on GL-owned and GL-friendly businesses when visiting one of the most beautiful places in Canada: Prince Edward County.  Our objective is to promote GL-lifestyle tourism.

Visit www.outinthecounty.com today as well consider joining Out in The County on Facebook and Twitter

Fiskars, a global leader in hand tools for home, garden and outdoors, zoomed in on Calgary this year to install a community garden. In the South East community of Albert Park Radisson Heights, to be precise.

Fiskars, under its Project Orange Thumb initiative, provides groups across the US and Canada with tools, materials and resources they need to create beautiful and productive community garden spaces. Since 2002, Project Orange Thumb has lent over $1 million to more than 115 community groups.

Photo Caption: From left to right Jay Gillespie, vice-president, brand marketing, Fiskars Americas; Duncan Reith, senior vice-president, merchandising, Canadian Tire; Paul Tonnesen, president, Fiskars Americas and Kelly Stock, a community volunteer pose for a photograph

As many as 100 volunteers turned up at Calgary’s inner city neighbourhood on Wednesday (July 27) to install a garden in welcome sunshine after a day of heavy downpour. The Albert Park Centennial Garden, as it has been named, is one of three North American sites selected for 2011 makeovers. Only one for Canada, other being at Madison, WI and Far Rockaway, NY.

“The decision to bring Project Orange Thumb to the Albert Park Radisson Heights community has been met with much enthusiasm,” says Fiskars Americas President Paul Tonnesen. “It’s a rewarding aspect of our business to help communities learn about and embrace the benefits of growing their own nutritious food for years to come,” he adds.

“People are increasingly appreciating the value of outdoor spaces, nutritious food, conservation of resources, and neighborhood and community development. Whether they are new to the area or lifetime residents, the Albert Park Centennial Garden will give community members an opportunity to come together and get to know their neighbors while embracing the benefits of growing their own fruits and vegetables,” the president says.

Putting down a financial figure, Tonnesen says in addition to many planning hours, the garden itself costs approximately $50,000, including the cost of materials, tools, live goods, and planning resources. He says the garden will serve as a good community engagement vantage point.

Local community members will be able to enjoy the beautified gathering space, rent plots to grow their own food, or utilize the larger in-ground beds for communal food production. A portion of the produce grown in the communal beds will be donated to communities in need.

Algernon Wilson, garden committee lead at the Albert Park Radisson Heights Community Association says there is a lot of confidence to be gained by becoming a productive gardener, not to mention pride in the community. “The community interest we’ve seen so far has been tremendous, and plans for garden expansion are already being considered,” he says.

Community members have welcomed the new garden as an opportunity to come together to grow their own fruits and vegetables. Algernon says the community residents worked tirelessly over last few months to engage the area residents and prepare the land for garden installation.

The new 12,765 square-foot Albert Park Centennial Garden, will contain four raised beds, two pedestal beds and 16 in-ground beds to serve a variety of gardening styles.

The centre of the garden will contain a gathering space surrounded by rose bushes and covered with a 16 foot pergola. In addition to a beautified community gathering space, community members will have the opportunity to rent garden plots or utilize communal beds, and a portion of the produce grown in the communal beds will be donated to communities in need.

For this park in Calgary, Fiskars partnered with the Calgary Horticultural Society, The City of Calgary and Canadian Tire to plant the seeds of community pride and transform an empty field in community into beautiful garden.

All in a day. The fruits of which will be reaped over the years to come.

Writers Bio: Peeyush Agnihotri is a writer with 14 years of international journalistic experience, mostly reporting on social and sustainable development issues. A National Foundation of India fellowship holder, he is currently based in Calgary

Photo: Genevieve Parise

The “Park Dreams Contest” asks people to share in 50 words or less a dream experience they’ve already had or wish for in any one of Canada’s 42 national parks. The topic is wide, and CPAWS is looking for dreams ranging from the wildest excursion to the most stunning view. There will be a two-week voting period after the closing date to help determine which 100 dreams will make it onto Canada’s first national parks bucket list.

The top-voted dream will win the grand prize trip for two to the Nahanni and the two runners up will receive great prize packages including a Mountain Equipment Co-Op shopping spree, Parks Canada Family Discovery Passes, great gear by CPAWS and a year’s subscription to Explore Magazine. All participants will also be eligible for great weekly prizes! Watch out for the 24 hours “takeover”-24 additional prizes to win!

“This is an opportunity for Canadians to share their dream experiences in our national parks.  We encourage everyone who has ever been to a national park, or dreams of getting to one, to share their ideas. We have amazing natural treasures in our parks and this is a year to celebrate them,” says CPAWS National Executive Director, Éric Hébert-Daly.

Watch out for the 24hours Takeover July 22^nd! Win a customized overnight getaway with six of your friends in your favorite national park! Enter your park dream on July 22nd and qualify for the 24Hours Takeover prize pack (valued at over $1000)! Experience your park like never before with custom activities, a tour by Parks Canada staff and much more!

Numerous surveys and ongoing research by the Insurance Corporation of B.C. agrees driver courtesy is gradually eroding, said ICBC psychologist John Vavrik.

“People generally feel there’s a lack of courtesy, there’s a lot of anger out there and people are concerned about running into aggressive drivers,” Vavrik said.

Topping the list of bad manners for those polled in the CAA survey are road rage and being cut off in traffic, with 86 per cent of respondents citing those behaviours. Texting or talking on the phone, tailgating, failing to use signals and tossing trash out the window also rank high on the list of irritations.

All behaviours that can be corrected, said Ian Jack, a spokesman for the automobile association.

“They’re all the sorts of things that we were told when we took driving lessons, or did our driving test and first got our license, that we really shouldn’t do,” he said.

The problem has become so pronounced in B.C. that the Crown insurance provider launched an advertising campaign reminding people to indicate they’re thankful for a traffic kindness.

“We’re tying to resurrect the wave,” Vavrik said of the simple tip of the hand that has become increasingly rare on Canadian roadways.

There’s a general tendency to think that everyone in traffic is wound up and lacks courtesy, he said, so ICBC is trying to change that perception.

Jack said the first step to fixing the problem is recognizing that all drivers could be a bit better — even yourself.

“The odds are that if we’re civil to other people, most — not all — but most, will be civil back,” Jack said.

One sticky issue may be getting drivers to admit they, too, could be a better driver.

A recent ICBC survey showed drivers gave their performance on the road a B+ while they graded other drivers around them a C+.

“People have a hard time looking in the mirror and recognizing that they’re part of the problem,” Vavrik said.

It’s not just an issue of bad manners either. Vavrik said hot headed drivers are impaired because they don’t recognize hazards and make poor judgments.

It’s a problem that could lead to injury or even death, Jack said.

“These habits that seem a little bit uncivil are the same ones that could lead you or your loved ones to be killed one day,” he said. “This isn’t a matter of wearing white gloves and extending your pinky as you turn left and turn right, it’s a matter of literally life and death for hundreds of Canadians every year.”

The cost of vehicle accidents to the Canadian economy is in the billions every year, said Michel Bedard, the director of the Centre for Research on Safe Driving at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ont.

“If we all kind of relax a bit more, slow down a bit more, I think it would change the whole road environment,” Bedard said. “Our philosophy is: most crashes are preventable.”

Peter Christianson, president of Young Drivers of Canada, said his driving school teaches students the courtesy of space, leaving enough space ahead of their vehicle to allow someone in and making sure the driver beside you has space to move over if necessary.

“It’s just thinking about everybody else on the road,” he said. “When you do that, traffic just works naturally and in fact you don’t have to wave because its just the way everybody drives.”

The “Park Dreams Contest” simply asks people to share in 50 words or less a dream experience they’ve already had or wish for in any one of Canada’s 42 national parks. The topic is wide, and CPAWS is looking for dreams ranging from the wildest excursion to the most stunning view, wildlife sighting, paddling haven or hiking thrill. There will be a two-week voting period after the closing date to help determine which 100 dreams will make it onto Canada’s first national parks bucket list.

The top-voted dream will win the grand prize trip for two to the Nahanni and the two runners up will receive great prize packages including a Mountain Equipment Co-Op shopping spree, Parks Canada Family Discovery Passes, great gear by CPAWS and a year’s subscription to Explore Magazine. All participants will also be eligible for great weekly prize giveaways! Watch out for the 24 hours “takeover”-24 additional prizes to win!

“This is an opportunity for Canadians to share their dream experiences in our national parks.  We encourage everyone who has ever been to a national park, or dreams of getting to one, to share their ideas. We have amazing natural treasures in our parks and this is a year to celebrate them,” says CPAWS National Executive Director, Éric Hébert-Daly.

Click here for more information and to enter the competition.

Meet Amar Chandel, a royal by descent, a journalist by profession and a holisitic healer by passion. This scion of India’s erstwhile Chandel Rajput dynasty, who has authored a couple of books on healthy living, is on a 10-day visit to Calgary to deliver discourses on breathing exercises, meditation, yoga and managing a healthy lifestyle — holistic healing as it is called.

It all started with hands-on advice to family and close friends when Chandel, a yoga proponent since childhood, noticed many illnesses and body diseases could be thwarted by a mix of pranayam exercises and dietary regimen. He then started delivering discourses on a charitable basis (which he continues to this day) except that if he is discoursing abroad (read out of India), the class has to bear his travel and lodging expenses.

The word about his style of healing has spread by mouth internationally. Keen disciples from across the globe pool in money to call him to various parts of the world every year. It was the turn of the US and Canada in 2011. His previous visits to the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Luxemburg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Israel, Egypt and China speak a lot about the worldwide popularity of his courses.

Holistic healing classes are held for five days for two hours a day.  Chandel combines millennia-old yoga practices with state-of-the-art nutrition research to increase the body’s immunity manifolds.. Not only do his healing classes teach how to manage a few chronic diseases but the comprehensive stress-reduction programme has also helped a large number of people get rid of their emotional difficulties like depression, tension, mood swings, excessive sensitivity and anger.

“These five days can transform one’s life. The course makes the students look better, be younger, live longer, healthier and happier. Human body is a beautiful creation of God. The body (human) has an inherent capacity to set right within six months all the damages that have been done upon it over up to over six decades,” he says.

Holistic healing classes have in-built component of the right food-water intake, breathing exercises, meditation, sleep cycle and body awareness and a module on positive attitude. “A person can digest anything in youth but the results and the brunt on the body may manifest after a decade. The physical destruction on body starts showing as soon as a person hits the middle age. Sedentary lifestyle of the West compounds the problem,” he says.

All that is expected of a ‘student’ is to learn the techniques thoroughly and practice them religiously. He already has a dedicated email id, asknature@gmail.com, wherein anyone may ask and carry forward a holistic healing discussion.

“Wonderful results don’t come by magic overnight. One has to spend at least six months (practicing what has been taught) to repair the damage done over a lifetime. That is a very small period for curing dreaded diseases without any medicine or hospitalization,” he comments.

A strong votary of maintaining one’s ideal body weight, he says many of the modern-day physical problems are weight related.  Chandel will be in Calgary up to June- end.

Writers Bio: Peeyush Agnihotri is a writer with 14 years of international journalistic experience, mostly reporting on social and sustainable development issues. A National Foundation of India fellowship holder, he is currently based in Calgary

Situated on the shores of the warm Lake Osoyoos, this town is known as a fantastic summer getaway for people across the country. Thanks to innovations of irrigation technology, much of the once barren countryside has been converted into lush areas filled with orchards, vineyards and golf courses. While parts of the desert have been reclaimed, this town is still surrounded by cactus, rolling dunes and tumbleweeds. About 4,300 Osoyoosians call this town home, but the population easily doubles during the summer months when vacationers flock to this location to take advantage of their hot weather and unique geographical location.

The History of Osoyoos

Taking its name from the Okanagan Indian word Osoyoos, meaning “the narrow place where two lakes come together,” this location has been seeing visitors to its shores since 1066 with the first permanent Native villages. The first Europeans ever to set foot on the mountain desert were Pacific Fur company employees, David Stuart and Monitary in the fall of 1811, while searching for a more efficient path to Fort Kamloops through the interior mountainous regions of British Columbia. From 1812– 1842, the Hudson Bay Company set up important trading posts on the banks of Lake Osoyoos because of its ideal weather conditions and location.

After the gold rush of the late 1800s brought in many a new settler, people started taking up land in the valley for various agricultural endeavors. After the planting of the first orchard in 1890 and the irrigation project of 1919, the area grew to become an excellent spot for fruit farmers and eventually Osoyoos was incorporated in 1946.

The main businesses that continue to draw people to live in Osoyoos are the fruit farming, winery and tourism industries. Among other fruits, peaches, cherries and even bananas (Canada’s only banana plantation) are grown in the various orchards in the area. Many wineries call the area home, producing some vino known the world over for its high quality and excellent taste. Because of the wonderful weather that blesses the city, the tourism industry is a large employer of permanent residents.

Regional Climate

Osoyoos is a sun worshipers mecca receiving over 2000 hours of sunshine a year. Due to its unique location at the base of the Cascade Mountains, Osoyoos is in a rain shadow causing there to be very little annual precipitation.

As Canada’s only hot desert (the arctic tundra has desert like conditions in terms of the amount of annual precipitation, but is very cold), Osoyoos has the lowest amount of annual precipitation in the country, taking in only 25 cm (10 in) of rainfall and 5 cm (2 in) of snowfall. Lake Osoyoos is the warmest freshwater lake in Canada and this town also boasts the warmest annual temperature anywhere in the country. The average day time high temperature in the summer (July) is a toasty 29ºC(84ºF). In the winter, the mercury hovers around the freezing point with the average day time high in January being 0.1ºC (32ºF).

Transportation Links

Located on the shores of Lake Osoyoos, Osoyoos is easy to get to by a variety of different modes of conveyance. The nearest airport is in about a three hour (300 km) drive to the north of Kamloops for those hoping to fly into town.

From Calgary, Alberta, Osoyoos is about 890 km (553 mi) or a nine-hour drive by car. Osoyoos is only 400 km (249 mi) away from the largest city in B.C., Vancouver. That works out to be a five-hour drive. While in town, visitors will notice the that city is divided in the middle by the lake. The east side of town where the downtown is found, with a majority of the shop and restaurant located only Main Street.

Farther up the road where road turns into the Crowsnest Highway, visitors will find mostly orchards and residential neighbourhoods. The westside of town is where the majority of the hotels and campgrounds will be found. Should travellers feel like taking a trip to the United States, the lake spans the international boarder, so those with access to a boat or a strong set of legs, can head to the town of Oroville on the southern shores of Lake Osoyoos.

Things To Do and See

The main draw of Osoyoos is the natural splendors that permeate every aspect of life in town. The desert and the lake are major sources for activities to do and things to see. The Nk’Mip Desert and Heritage Site shows travellers the rich history of the area through a non-European point-of-view. Offering information and displays about the desert, people visiting this location can go on guided tours of the surrounding dry lands on a raised-board pathway. Another museum that should be on any history buff list is the Osoyoos Museum. Constructed from hand cut logs, this establishment was built in 1963. Families stopping by this location can be regaled with stories of what life was like during the turn of the century for the first settlers to the area.

Lake Osoyoos provides endless hours of entertainment for people in town. The warm lake is perfect for any watery pursuit travellers can think of. Boat rentals, wakeboarding, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, and parasailing are just some of the adventures people can have on the water.

For people who want to take off and get away from the city, Haynes Point Provincial Park is an excellent destination only 2 km (1.2 mi) south of town. The warm waters in the area make it an idyllic place for water sport enthusiasts looking to partake of some jet skiing, wakeboarding or waterskiing. Bird watchers will rejoice when visiting this area as it is the only know home in Canada to the nations tiniest avian, the Calliope Hummingbird.

No trip to Osoyoos would be complete without visiting at least one of their many vineyards and wineries. One unique stop is the Nk’Mip Cellars Winery. This is the only First Nations owned and operated vineyard in Canada and it annually turns out over 15,000 cases of the delicious grapeproduct. Its location on the hills overlooking the lake give it a breathtaking view of the picturesque town. For people looking to get more than just a taste of what the wine region has to offer, winery tours are available offering whole-day and half day tours.

Every spring this town plays host to a bacchanal that celebrates Dionysus favourite beverage and Osoyoos’ most famous export; wine. In early May, the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival offers over 50 events to enlighten and entertain at various locations throughout the Okanagan. Another festival known to draw a fun-loving crowd is the Osoyoos Annual Cherry Fiesta. On the first of July, events take place across the Okanagon to celebrate the sweet tree treat. The festivities range from beer gardens and pancake breakfasts to crafts and cherry pie eating contest.

For people looking to experience the sand and heat of the desert, but would rather not venture out to the Sahara, Osoyoos is a perfect travel destination. The wine, fruit and lake make a trip to this town a perfect summer adventure.

For more information visit the official city website

Visit the official tourism website

The public had four months to vote for their favourite in three award categories: great streets, great neighbourhoods and great public spaces. A panel of professional planners then selected the top three winners in each category.

The Forks beat out Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto and Pippy Park in St. John’s in the great spaces category.

The Forks: One of Winnipeg’s most beloved meeting spots

“The Forks” in Downtown Winnipeg has a rich history of early Aboriginal settlement, immigration, the advent of the railway, the fur trade, and the coming of the industrial age. This place is one of Winnipeg’s most important landmarks, having archaeological digs that prove Aboriginal groups were active here thousands of years ago, plus one of the key sites of early railroad development on the Prairies (5 rail yards dominated the site). The government promoted immigration & settlement and Winnipeg as we know it today was known as the “Gateway to the West” in earlier times.

Nestled in the heart of downtown, The Forks is one of Winnipeg’s most beloved and pre-eminent meeting spots, at the junction of the Assiniboine River where it meets the mighty Red.

The Forks possesses a rich 6000-year old history. Early Aboriginal peoples traded at The Forks, followed by European fur traders, Métis buffalo hunters, Scottish settlers, riverboat workers, railway pioneers and tens of thousands of immigrants.

Today, framed by the banks of the two rivers, The Forks is Winnipeg’s number one tourist destination with more than four million visitors annually. The Forks features something for everyone including parks, promenades, gardens and sculptures alongside shops, restaurants and a multitude of attractions.

The 54-acre site has received international awards for design excellence and worldwide attention as a model for urban renewal and waterfront development. Winter, spring, summer or fall, The Forks is must for a stunning array of dining experiences, incomparable shopping, a constantly changing slate of entertainment and events, and many unique attractions that encompass the site’s natural, historic and man-made features.

• The Forks sits at the birthplace of the City, at the confluence of the Assiniboine and Red Rivers. The Forks is an amalgam of public facilities (indoor and outdoor) mixed with commercial and retail spaces within a pedestrian prioritized site.
• The Forks is landlocked by the two intertwining rivers and the rail line along its Western boundary. To compensate for these boundaries a series of penetrations through the rail line and bridges over the two rivers have connected The Forks to downtown Winnipeg’s Main Street to the West, St. Boniface to the East and South, and The Exchange District National Historic Site to the North.
• Buildings are centered around a number of exterior spaces of different sizes and capacity for use. The original Canopy area creates a congregational space for theatre in the round, small performances and serves as a plaza to the boat basin, the Forks Market and the Johnston Terminal.
• The Forks Festival site, now more commonly know as Scotiabank Stage, which is activated as the central performance/celebration space in Winnipeg for all major celebrations is bordered by the Manitoba Theatre for Young People, The Inn at the Forks, The Plaza @ The Forks (Skateboard Park), the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (opening tbd), and The Forks National Historic Site.
• As a pedestrian priority site, The Forks has placed a high priority on ensuring an ease of access for all people. The site is the central focus of all Active Transportation pathway systems in Winnipeg allowing all users to connect to the Forks by foot, bike, skateboard, etc…  Additionally, a waterbus system through the summer months provides a unique experience for visitors to the site, that is replaced with the Guinnes world record holding longest Ice Skating Trail through the winter months connecting many neighbourhoods to The Forks.  Sitting immediately adjacent to the VIA train station, visitors travelling across Canada stop at the Forks through the historic rail station.
• Every major event that occurs at the Forks (Canada Day celebrations, barge festival, skateboard contests, skating trails, dancing under the canopy, etc…) is offered free of charge to all spectators.  At this centralized location all Winnipegers have equal access and ease of access to the site at all times of the year.
• The Forks has placed a high priority on animating the site through all seasons and at all times of the day.  From its Arctic Glacier Winter Park that features tobogganing, snowboarding, cross country skiing and ice skating along the world’s Longest Ice Skating Trail – Winnipegers and visitors are treated to an exciting and dynamic winter environment that accommodates all users from beginners to experts. Programming throughout the year is critical, from ice hockey and jam pail curling tournaments in the winter to skateboard competitions, musical performances on the main stage, fireworks, The Winnipeg Children’s Festival, and much much more, the Forks is an active space at all times of the year.
• At its origin, The Forks was predominantly marshland along the two rivers in early development of Winnipeg this site was cut off from the City by the Rail line and used primarily as a rail hub. The site’s grade was artificially raised to accommodate the needs of the rail industry and up until the late 1980’s became an unused rail yard.  As a brownfield development, The Forks has seen the retrofit of the four remaining buildings on the site into the Main Market building, the Johnston Terminal (commercial and retail spaces), the A Channel building, and the Manitoba Children’s Museum. The protection of the riverbank by Parks Canada as the Forks National Historic Site continues to enhance the natural environment.  The Prairie Garden, the Peace Meeting Interpretive Site, the South Point redevelopment and the site development for the Canadian Museum for Human Rights have all reclaimed former gravel spaces with the reintroduction of native plant species as both a spiritual and educational effort.
• Additionally, the recent Target Zero campaign has the Forks site looking at alternative energy sources and a complete reduction of waste into waste harvesters and bio-fuel based maintenance vehicles as an effort to reduce the imprint of the site on the rest of the City of Winnipeg.

For more information about “The Forks” visit the official website

Highlights of the makeover include a playful Rubik’s Cube entrance (think Toronto’s ROM Crystal for kids) and 12 new galleries based on the theme of building blocks. Each play zone offers learn-while-you-play opportunities such as a table that simulates an earthquake, complete with tumbling blocks. Many also offer Prairie-inspired experiences such as stepping inside a giant Milk Machine cow to learn about modern dairy farming or chilling out in a reading cocoon within a peaceful faux marsh. The ultramodern Arts & Exhibition Centre will host the latest in travelling exhibits, performers and theatre productions.

Although the museum promotes a love of learning, there will be plenty of opportunities to get silly. A much-anticipated play zone is Lasagna Lookout, a pasta-themed structure where visitors can dodge meatballs and crawl through a fettuccine tunnel.

Outdoors, kids can go wild at the nearby Variety Heritage Adventure Park, opening this summer. Situated on lands once occupied by Fort Gibraltar, a North West Company trading post, this new Parks Canada site offers birch bark canoes, splash pads, York boats and other interactive play structures designed to bring Manitoba’s heritage to life.

All these renovations won’t disrupt the museum’s winning formula of imagination and make-believe. The beloved CN diesel locomotive No. 9161 and vintage passenger coach will continue to be the heart of the museum, letting visitors journey to wherever their imagination wants to go.

www.travelmanitoba.com

Article courtesy of the Canadian Tourism Commission Media Centre

Writers Bio: Michele Peterson – I am a columnist for Fifty-five Plus magazine, Ontario’s leading publication for older active adults and author the Daytripper as well as Travel Bug columns (news on Canadian, Ontario and international destinations)with readers in Ottawa, Kingston and Toronto. I am also a frequent contributor to Buffalo area publications such as the Buffalo News, Buffalo Spree as well as the Toronto Star, Via, Dreamscapes, Air Canada onAir, the Globe and Mail, Spa Life and 2: Couples Magazine and others as well as the Manitoba section of the Travel Industry Guide to Canada. My focus is eco-destinations, culinary, outdoor adventure such as canoeing, hiking and cycling, as well as spas.

The findings of ONPHA’s 2011 Report on Waiting List Statistics for Ontario shows that the number of households waiting for social housing continues to grow despite the modest economic recovery in Ontario. As of January, 152,077 households were on waiting lists for financially assisted housing in Ontario – a 7.4% increase since 2010 and an almost 18% jump (22,824 households) from the 129,253 seniors, singles and families on waiting lists in 2009.

“Despite discussion of economic recovery, it is clear that many households are struggling to find a stable home they can afford,” said Sharad Kerur, ONPHA’s Executive Director. “While employment numbers may be improving, many Ontarians are living through an uneasy economic recovery characterized by reduced work hours, lost jobs or new jobs at lower wages.”

Many workers undergoing employment transitions need immediate housing assistance, but find that they will likely wait years to be housed. Discouraged by lengthy waiting times, in some cases up to 15 years, many households in need walk away without applying.

“In reality, the actual number of people requiring assistance is even higher than these statistics suggest,” said Kerur. “Over 260,000 households spend more than half of their income on housing and virtually all of them would be eligible for financially assisted housing – the numbers we see on waiting lists are really just the tip of the iceberg.”

The 2011 report found that waiting list applications in all three groups studied – seniors, non-senior singles and families – have increased. In particular, the number of seniors in need is rising quickly, with active applications in this group up 10% since last year. As Ontario’s population ages, more and more seniors will require access to community-based housing, making it a significant long-term issue that will need to be addressed if the province is going to meet the needs of aging parents and grandparents.

“Housing is the foundation of inclusive communities, strong economies and healthy families,” says Kerur. “The provincial Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy provides a starting point, but the on-going needs of an aging population and a changing workforce will require lasting and consistent funding for new affordable housing development. Our members and other concerned citizens will be calling on candidates of all political stripes to articulate their vision for Ontario’s affordable housing infrastructure in the months ahead.”

For over 20 years, ONPHA has been the voice of non-profit housing in Ontario. Our 760 member organizations operate more than 160,000 non‐profit housing units and provide housing for approximately 400,000 people such as the elderly, low‐income families with children, the working poor, victims of violence and abuse, people living with developmental disabilities, mental illness, HIV/AIDS or addictions and the formerly homeless/hard‐to‐house. ONPHA’s members include municipal and private non-profits of all sizes, with all types of funding.

A copy of the report can be found at: www.onpha.on.ca

For more information about this report click here

The Arts Route directs you to artists, artisans and galleries across Hastings County.  The Arts Route creates a trail of discovery to painters, potters, jewellery makers, photographers and other creative people. Travel the Arts Route at your leisure, at your own pace, enjoying beautiful local artwork. The Arts Route is membership driven and developed and operated by the Hastings County Economic Development Office, in partnership with the arts community. Andrew Redden has been working to promote local talent in the Hastings County area. The goal is to create awareness of the talent in Hastings County, while increasing profit for these businesses. There are hundreds of artists in the Hastings County area, but the question is, how word is getting out, and was there a program that was collectively “binding” them together as a core unit.

With the $10,000 initiative being funded by a grant from the Community Futures Development Corporation and Trenval Business Development Corporation, they began by developing a website for ARTS ROUTE. The website will include a database for all of the artists, as well profiles of all of the members. As Andrew commented “…the website will showcase artists, galleries, theatres, and other art-based attractions in Hastings County and will be used to advertise events like studio tours.”

Within each page, each artist will have the name of their business, their contact information, address, photos, each will have a ARTS ROUTE’s sign to match the signage along roadways so that patrons can identify the artisan.

To become a member of ARTS ROUTE, the $200 fee covers a few costs such as producing and distributing marketing materials, signage/website upkeep, and other maintenance and administration costs. There are a variety of different members that have joined and have shown interest. Interest has been shown from everyone from a candle maker to potter or furniture designer. “We want to support those who want to sell their products and make some money”, said Andrew.

The requirements of joining the ARTS ROUTE are:

• Accessible to the public with consistent hours & availability displayed on the website
• Display signage for the Arts Route
• Carry $2,000,000 (2 million) comprehensive liability insurance
• Notify the administrator easily of changes to hours and other information about your location

The next project on the list will be an application for the smart phone, which is in the works.

To join the ARTS ROUTE visit www.artsroute.ca and complete the application. If you have any further questions please contact: Andrew Redden, Economic Development Manager, Hastings County 613.966.6712 ext 4011 866.321.9563 ext.4011

After hearing about the Pepsi Refresh Project, a program that funds ideas promoting positive social change, Alex applied for a $5,000 grant to help him create the documentary. An aspiring filmmaker, Alex wanted to create a movie that would be used as an anti-bullying tool and encourage peer dialog about the issue. Following a two-month public voting campaign on the refresheverything.ca website, Alex’s documentary idea was one of 10 chosen by Canadians to receive funding.

Over the past four months of production, Alex and a crew of a few friends who volunteered their time, have secured the interest and involvement of high-profile Canadian personalities wanting to share advice and personal stories about dealing with bullying.

The cast of SPEAK OUT: THE DOCUMENTARY includes Juno-nominated singer Keshia Chante and pop music star Massari, Toronto Argonauts’ Defensive End Ricky Foley, stand-up comedian and MuchMusic personality Trevor Boris, motivational speaker Jesse Jones from U-ology101, motivational singer-songwriter Sara Westbrook, as well as students, teachers, parents and industry professionals. Topics explored include racism, homophobia, suicide, mental health and cyber bullying.

“The mission of SPEAK OUT: THE DOCUMENTARY is to make a positive difference in the lives of children and youth and build a bully-free society for all students and community members,” said Alex Vander Vlugt. “Created by youth for youth, the film will help us speak out for those that can’t.”

“We are very excited for Alex, and look forward to seeing his hard work come to life on screen,” said Neetu Godara, Senior Marketing Manager, PepsiCo Beverages Canada. “Alex embodies everything the Pepsi Refresh Project stands for – his work is helping to refresh the world and make a positive impact on the lives of young Canadians.”

More than 4000 high school students will be wearing pink on April 13. You can show your support for SPEAK OUT by uploading a photo of yourself wearing pink to the SPEAK OUT Facebook page (facebook.com/sowhatspeakout) or Twitter handle (@sowhatspeakout) and use the #SWSO hashtag to help raise awareness for the cause.The pink shirt campaign originates from Nova Scotia where two senior students spoke out to help out a junior student who was bullied for wearing a pink polo shirt on his first day of school. Today, thousands of youth across Canada unite as they take a stand against bullying by wearing pink.

According to the Running On Empty report, even as the province recovers from the recession, more than 400,000 Ontarians are forced to turn to food banks each and every month. The report is the most recent in a series of high profile announcements by national and provincial organizations pointing to an alarming growth rate in the number of malnourished and chronically hungry people in Canada.

“The numbers don’t lie: our report provides irrefutable, once-and-for-all empirical evidence that hunger and lack of basic necessities are chronic problems across Ontario,” said Ed Borkowski, Executive Director, Ontario Association of Food Banks. “How many more reports will it take for Ontario political party leaders to wake up to the fact that hunger needs to be at the top of their agendas?”

The OAFB is asking Ontario citizens to support its call to action by sending an online e-card petition to all three main political parties in Ontario, asking them to put hunger at the top of their election platforms. The e-cards can be completed and sent from the OAFB website at: www.oafb.ca

Running On Empty reveals that the average profile of those accessing food banks across Ontario has shifted over the last 10 years, with single adults now comprising the largest proportion of the population served by them. Meanwhile, food bank use has grown by as much as 28 per cent since 2008, with 3.1 per cent of the province’s entire population accessing food banks, making Ontario the third most intensive user of food bank services in Canada.

The report also finds that 85 per cent of food bank users are either Canadian-born or have lived in Canada for more than 10 years. The number of newcomers turning to food banks decreased from 29 per cent in 2007 to 15 per cent in 2010.

“Health care is always at the top of everyone’s political agenda, but not enough is being done to proactively address health problems arising directly from poor nutrition and poverty,” said Borkowski. “We must start thinking about turning these trends around so Ontario can remain a strong and healthy place for families to live, work and thrive.”

Report Highlights: Running On Empty: A Decade of Hunger in Ontario

More than 400,000 Ontarians are forced to turn to food banks each and every month (3.1 per cent of the province’s population). This makes Ontario the third most intensive user of food bank services in Canada. Other key facts and findings:

Family background

• Single adults now comprise the largest proportion of the population served by food banks (38 per cent in 2010, up from 26 per cent in 2002)
• Single parent families are the second largest group served (30 per cent in 2010, down from a peak of 39 per cent in 2003)
• Two parent families come third. They accounted for 22 per cent of food bank clients in 2010 (down from 27 per cent in 2002)
• Children and youth under the age of 18 account for 37 per cent of the population served by food banks in March 2010, down from 40 per cent in 2000.
• 15 per cent of food bank clients were new Canadians (have lived in Canada less than 10 years) in 2010 down from 29 per cent in 2007
• Aboriginal clients also declined over time to 7 per cent in 2010

Sources of income

• Most Ontario households using food banks depended on social assistance (45 per cent) in 2010. But this was much lower than the 65 per cent in 2000.
• In contrast, the number of households receiving Ontario Disability Program (ODSP) benefits increased over the decade from 14 per cent in 2000 to 23 per cent in 2010
• Over 5 per cent of the households served relied on pension income, the same as in 2001
• Only 11 per cent of households had employment income in 2010, about the same as the early 2000s; access to Employment Insurance (EI) fluctuated through the decade, hitting a low of 2.6 per cent of households in 2008 and a peak of 5 per cent in 2004
• In rural areas (communities under 10,000), 9 per cent received EI benefits and 40 per cent received social assistance, while 22 per cent accessed Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) benefits

Housing

• 64 per cent of people served by food banks in 2010 lived in market rental accommodation; 27 per cent lived in social housing. Only 4.4 per cent owned their own homes
• Comparing the Ontario average with rural areas, homeownership was higher in rural settings (17 per cent of food bank clients), but rental accommodation was lower, at 51 per cent in 2010. And more people were living with family or friends (6 per cent rural vs. 2 per cent for the province as a whole)

“The Great Lakes are the largest system of fresh surface water on earth and a crucial resource to Canadians,” said Minister Kent. “With this investment, the Government of Canada is working in partnership with communities and other levels of government to protect and restore water quality in the Great Lakes.”

“The Great Lakes Sustainability Fund is a concrete example of the real action taking place to support initiatives and projects that will ensure that our natural environment is healthy, protected and safe. The clean-up of Hamilton Harbour is a milestone that once achieved, brings us closer to a healthier ecosystem, not just locally, but for the benefit of all Canadians,” said the Member of Parliament for Burlington, Mike Wallace.

“Hamilton Harbour is a cornerstone for the local community, and a significant contributor to the Great Lakes ecosystem. With this funding, we are able to partner closely with the Government of Canada and other partners towards achievements and outcomes essential for determining progress towards Hamilton Harbour’s delisting targets,” said Tÿs Theÿsmeÿer, Head of Natural Lands with the Royal Botanical Gardens.

The Royal Botanical Gardens’ (RBG) Grindstone Creek and Cootes Paradise Rehabilitation Project is one of the six projects to receive funding for remediation and clean-up of the Hamilton Harbour Area of Concern. Through this project, essential fish and wildlife habitat and water quality in RBG sanctuaries will continue to improve as a result of activities such as the elimination of damaging effects of carp, the reconnection of isolated habitats and improvement of inflowing water. Among many achievements, RBG hopes to plant approximately 6500 native plants in project areas; monitor water quality at 14 sites throughout the field season; and coordinate public workshops.

This year, funding has been provided for work in 11 of the remaining 14 Areas of Concern, including Hamilton Harbour. The Hamilton Harbour Area of Concern is a 2150 hectare embayment located at the western tip of Lake Ontario and includes several urban centres such as Burlington and Hamilton. It was identified as a “degraded geographic area” because of water quality resulting in undesirable algae and beach closings, sediment contamination, impairments to fish and wildlife populations and their habitat and restrictions on fish and wildlife consumption.

The Great Lakes Sustainability Fund (GLSF), which is administered by Environment Canada, works in partnership with other agencies and local community stakeholders to advance Remedial Action Plans that have been developed for each of Canada’s remaining Areas of Concern within the Great Lakes Basin. Funding is provided to initiatives that meet specific criteria and that serve to restore the environment. Such projects include fish and wildlife habitat restoration, contaminated sediment remediation, landowner stewardship, and control of pollution from municipal wastewaters and rural runoff.

More information about the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund is available at http://www.ec.gc.ca/raps-pas/

The climate in the Windsor area lends itself to a vibrant and picturesque environment. The natural beauty is enhanced by the city being bordered by water on three sides. Having the most southerly location in Canada (Windsor is similar to Madrid, Spain in latitude) doesn’t hurt either. Convenient access draws in approximately 9 million visitors annually, making Windsor the country’s busiest port. Much of the nearly $1 billion dollars generated through trade and tourism comes in the form of US dollars through Michigan, Ontario’s largest trading partner. Its unique location on the southwestern tip of Ontario puts 100 million Canadian and American citizens >within 800 kilometres (500 miles) of city limits.

History:

Growing out of a small Jesuit Mission, Windsor was officially founded in 1748. Originally a French settlement, Windsor grew in steady unison with the city of Detroit, MI on the opposite bank of the river. These French roots can still be seen in the pattern of roads and streets in the downtown area. The settlement grew slowly and remained under French control until 1797, when an increasing number of British loyalists began moving in, seeking to remain under British rule and avoid the political changes of post civil war America.

The town of Windsor would change further with the arrival of Great Western Railway in 1854, in what is now Downtown Windsor. This move ensured commercial success for years to come, connecting the township with the larger centres in the north.

In 1904, the Ford Motor Company set up shop in Windsor, beginning what would become the area’s most prominent industry. So big was the automotive industry that during the First World War the growing industrial complex was actually known as Ford City. By 1930, the industry had become so influential that Windsor had grown to include the smaller surrounding communities into a city of 100,000 people. The Second World War led to further increase in both industrial production and growth of the city.

Today the city of Windsor is still primarily a manufacturing based economy, remaining a forerunner in automotive engineering. The Windsor region is also eastern Canada’s largest agricultural business community. This, combined with an ideal location and more than 800 companies in the Windsor area, secured an impressive 40% of the Canada-USA trade market, generating an exchange of $400 million dollars daily between the two countries.

Climate:

Being surrounded by Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River has created a temperate climate, with annual average temperatures between the mid teens to high 20s Celsius (mid 50s to low 80s Fahrenheit) in the summer months. Winter temperatures are mild, between -5 and 2 Celsius (low 20s to mid 30s Fahrenheit) but the higher humidity from its waterfront location often creates the sensation of a deeper, penetrating cold.

Rain is common but rarely heavy. Rainfall averages around 9 cm (3 inches) in the summer months, varying only slightly throughout the year.

Transportation:

Passage to Windsor comes in many forms. The 401 Highway runs directly to the heart of Windsor, connecting the southern tip of Ontario to London and Toronto. The Ambassador Bridge joins Windsor and Detroit above land. The idea for a motorway spanning the Detroit River came to light in the early years following World War I, but the bridge would not get built for almost 10 years, and at a cost of $23.5 million US dollars. When completed in 1929, the 2804-meter (9,200 foot) masterpiece of engineering was the longest suspension bridge in the world.

A fun alternative to the Ambassador Bridge is the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. At 22.8 meters (75 feet) beneath the river and nearly 1,600 meters (almost a mile) long, the tunnel is the fastest connection between the cities of Windsor and Detroit. The tunnel connects to the 401 via Ouellette Ave. for getting around the Windsor area.

The Windsor Airport is designed for charter and commuter flights. While smaller than many international airports, is quite capable of handling flights and aircraft of all sizes. Shuttle, taxi and car rental service are available.

VIA Rail has a scenic train station close to the river and connects Windsor with the rest of Canada through the Quebec / Windsor Corridor. Trains make regular trips to Toronto, as well as to Chicago Il, with stops between.

Getting around the city is fairly easy as the public transportation system is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Transit Windsor operates both within the city and between the city center and downtown Detroit through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, with stops at casinos on both borders.

Attractions:

Because of its waterfront location, the city of Windsor has developed a taste for water sport. It is not uncommon to find residents enjoying the summer weather with their boats and water skis, swimming at the beaches of Pelee Island, or even taking in a boat tour along the banks of the Detroit River.

The Charlie Brooks Memorial Peace Fountain, a popular summer attraction, is a floating fountain on the Detroit River. In fact, the fountain is one of North America’s largest and offers a variety of water “shows” daily, pumping 12,000 gallons of water into the air every minute.

There is also the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, a two-lane roadway 23 meters (75 feet) below the surface of the Detroit River. Considered a great feat of engineering, the tunnel opened in November of 1930 at a total cost of $23,000,000. Be forewarned that the tunnel is the second busiest route between Canada and the US, and has toll and customs inspection booths at either end.

Of course, there is a variety of restaurants, clubs and bars to choose from, offering everything from a relaxed atmosphere to live music and comedy.

Accommodation:

Lodgings abound in the Windsor area, and range from the budget minded to first class and even a restored Victorian Inn. Most of these can be found in the downtown area, which keeps visitors close to the Cleary International Center, casinos, superb dining, the many parks along the banks of the beautiful Detroit river and, of course, many attractions unique to Windsor.

For more information about this region click here

She was born in Asbestos, Quebec but lived in Danville, Quebec. Her family moved to Fort McMurray when she was very young and that is where she grew up. She still lives there and is married with two young sons.

Melissa has twice been named by Alberta Venture Magazine as one of their ‘Top 50 Most Influential People’, and in 2006 she was named a ‘Woman of Vision’ by Global Television. In 2008 she received the CHW (Canadian Hadassah-WIZO organization) Woman of Achievement Award, and the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Athabasca University. In 2009 she received the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce Sustainable Community Recognition Award.

She took time out of her busy schedule to answer our questions, for which we thank her.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: Black Pontiac Fiero.

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be and why?

A: The Fiskar Karma electric hybrid.

Q: What has been your most embarrassing moment and why?

A: It would have to be when, on two separate occasions, I suddenly began coughing uncontrollably while presenting to large audiences. I lost my voice for about two minutes each time.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?

A: I’m passionate about scuba diving, and in particular shark diving experiences.

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?

A: My freckles.

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Honesty and straightforwardness.

Q: Mac or PC?

A: Both! I’ve got a Mac at home, a PC at work, plus I have an IPad, Blackberry and more. I also have a Facebook and Twitter account.

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?

A: Fiji because of the amazing cultural experiences, and of course the shark diving.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

A: I’m living here now! There’s no where else I’d rather be at this time, and it’s because of the incredible opportunities that spread from generation to generation.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Mummy with Brendan Fraser.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?

A: The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, then The Girl Who Played With Fire. I’m saving: The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest.

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?

A: I think I have tried everything at some point in my life. I enjoyed most of them and support them all.

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: Just hanging out with my family at home

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?

A: Elections are both the worst and best moments for me as Mayor.

The worst because every time Council changes you say good-bye to colleagues that you’ve come to know quite well and respect.

And the best because every time there’s an election I get a new team of people to work with, and their interest and perspectives are inspiring.

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?

A: I would be a scuba diving instructor somewhere exotic like the Turks and Caicos.

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?

A: Spend as much time as possible with my family; anywhere, doing anything – together!

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?

A: Buttered popcorn! The whole bowl!

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?

A: Open-mindedness/adaptability, or compassion/kindness for others.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: The handmade quilt my grandmother gave me for my wedding.

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Dive right in! Be brave, be bold, and bundle up! Welcome to Wood Buffalo!

You can follow Melissa on Facebook www.facebook.com/melissaformayor# and Twitter @MayorMelissa.

If you would like to read about other Canadian Mayors – Click Here

Sault Ste. Marie’s first female mayor Debbie Amaroso

Mayor Amaroso has two adult children, Jason (34) and Alana 32 and ran her mayoral campaign on the platform of providing a balanced approach to community development. Her slogan was “Your City, your say.”

To get an insight into the real person behind the title she kindly agreed to answer our probing questions.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?
A: Datsun

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be and why?
A: Cadilac SUV because they are comfortable for road trips and have lots of room to carry four sets of golf clubs.

Q: What has been your most embarrassing moment and why?
A: I was young and acting cool for some cute guy who was stopped at a light.  I was getting out of my dad’s car, closed the door and didn’t realize my pants had got caught in the door.  I tossed my long blonde hair, began to walk away from the car and fell flat on my face because of the pants being stuck.  At which point I had to try and extracate my pant leg from the car door from my position on the ground.  I guess I wasn’t so cool that day.  The cute guy just laughed and drove away.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?
A: I am much more sensitive than I let people know.

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?
A: The quickness to judge.

Q: What do you most value in other people?
A: Honesty and sincerity.
Q: Mac or PC?
A: PC.

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?
A: New Zealand.  It is the most beautiful, clean country I have ever been to and the people are so warm and friendly.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
A: Other than Sault Ste. Marie ……. possibily the Vancouver area as I love the ocean and mountains.

Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?
A: Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz.

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?
A: Golf and Curling.

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?
A: Word games.

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?
A: Best – seeing how proud my kids are. Worst – haven’t had one yet

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
A: A philanthropist so that I could provide scads of money to those people and groups that would benefit most.

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?
A: Be with my kids.

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?
A: A hot turkey sandwich with lots of french fries and gravy.

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?
A: They have many of them but openness.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?
A: My passport.

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?
A: Embrace every experience.

If you would like to read about other Canadian Mayors – Click Here

He was born and raised in Baden, just outside Kitchener and attended Rockway Mennonite Collegiate and Waterloo-Oxford District High School. He then went on to pursue a career in accounting working for many large companies including K-W Hospital, and University of Waterloo. In 2008, he received the Toastmasters International Communication and Leadership Award, and was named one of the Top 100 Certified General Accountants in Canada.

Carl Zehr, Mayor of Kitchener

Carl, now 65, lives with his wife Sandy. They have two adult children and four grandchildren.

Mayor Zehr kindly agreed to answer our questions and we thank him for taking the time.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: 1963 Corvair bought in 1965 just before Ralph Nadar came out with his book “Unsafe At Any Speed”

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be and why?

A: Viper, because I can only dream about it.

Q: What has been your most embarrassing moment and why?

A: Too personal to share

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?

A: I’m a pacifist.

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?

A: I wouldn’t age.

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Integrity.

Q: Mac or PC?

A: PC.

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?

A: Ten weeks in Japan in 1974; it changed my view of the world.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

A: In a vineyard close to a town with amenities.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: Ben Hur.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?

A: Last book – The High Road by Terry Fallis; currently reading the city budget books which is not nearly as funny.

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?

A: Golf.

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: Go to the movies.

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?

A: Best – interacting with people; Worst – interacting with people; You have to be a Mayor to understand that.

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?

A: Travel/vacation critic to experience different and fascinating places and people.

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?

A: Hug my family.

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?

A: Cherry pie with ice cream followed by a medium rare steak and then another cherry pie and ice cream.

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?

A: Calmness.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: My Blackberry.

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Call me if you need help.

If you would like to read about other Canadian Mayors – Click Here

But this wasn’t enough for Emilie who also had a hidden desire to write. This became more apparent when her to sons Keith now 16 and Sam 10 first started reading. She noticed that there weren’t many books available for First Nations children, so she decided to write some of her own.

“There just didn’t seem to be anything out there for my children,” says Emilie who now lives in tottenham, Ontario. “I looked in bookshops and in the library and couldn’t find what I was looking for. I made up my mind to create a character that children could relate to but that could also be written using the Ojibwe language.”

Emilie Corbiere (40) has always been influenced by the arts

However, the process was far from quick and easy. Emilie’s first book took about three years to develop. Titled “Porcupine’s Bad Day” and released in 2006, it is all about a grumpy porcupine who wakes up on the wrong side of the bed and gets angry with all his forest friends. This then led to her second book “Porcupine Goes to the City” released October 2009. This time Porcupine accidentally finds himself in the city and meets lots of colourful characters.

“My third book in the series was released late 2010 and is called ‘Porc and Beans’ and this time porcupine meets a new friend called Beans, but not everything goes smoothly for the new duo.” says Emilie.

All of Emilie’s books are written in part English and part Ojibwe and teach the value of friendship and cooperation. They also encourage children to look after their environment.

So, now there are three books about Porcupine and his friends will Emilie stop there or continue writing about this fascinating creature?

“I would definitely love to continue this series and hopefully write another one soon. Although each book doesn’t take too long to write once I am in the right frame of mind, sometimes the initial idea can take months to form.” says Emilie.

Do you ever get writers block? “Definitely. For my third book, Porc and Beans, I had the title in my head but I had no story idea. For months, I couldn’t think of anything to go with the title but it came to me one day at the doctors office while I was waiting for my son. Once it came to me, I wrote the story in about 20 minutes and wrote a better draft once I got home.”

Do you have a favorite time of day to write? “I don’t really have a favorite time of day to write, it’s usually whenever somethings springs up in my mind, I write it down right away and it starts to develop from there. I am never without my little notebook.”

All the illustrations are done by my cousin Cynthia Ciesielski

Your books are beautifully illustrated, did you do these too. “No, all the illustrations are done by my cousin Cynthia Ciesielski who is very talented. I was very lucky to be able to use her fabulous artwork.”

As a child yourself, what books did you enjoy? “One of my many favourite authors is H.A. Rey, who created Curious George. I also loved Clifford the Big Red Dog, Francis and the Birthday Party, Garfield, The Family Circus, Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High, to name a few.”

Do you have any plans to write books for adults? “I would love to write a chicken soup for the soul kind of book, with various short stories and tales of inspiration.”

Other than writing and craft work what other things do you enjoy? “I love sewing, reading, crafting and some gardening.”

Emilie is a strong advocate of True North Aid which is a non-profit charity that gathers, food, clothing, medical supplies and books and delivers them to First Nation communities that are accessible only by plane. For every book she sells $1 will be donated to the charity.

You can find details of Emilie’s books on her website www.porcupineandfriends.com

Mayor Redfern was born in Frobisher Bay which is now known as Iqaluit 43 years ago, so knows the area and its people well. She is married to Jae and they have one daughter, Jasmine who is now 22 years old.

Madeleine Redfern

Mayor Redfern is an avid believer of volunteering having spent many years doing so herself for several Aboriginal organizations. These include being past President of Tungasuvvingat Inuit Community Centre, past Secretary-Treasurer of Inuit Non-Profit Housing Corporation, founding member of Wabano Aboriginal Health Centre, founding member of Ottawa Inuit Headstart, Inuit representative on Kagita Mikam, an aboriginal employment and training board, Co-coordinator of Iqaluit Restorative Justice, community representative on Iqaluit Municipal Appeals Board, and is currently Secretary-Treasurer with Maliganiik Legal Services Board and Acting Chair on Legal Services Board.

We asked the Mayor to put her political thoughts aside for a moment and answer our “in-depth” questionnaire. Thankfully she gladly agreed.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: Original Austin mini, only allowed in Canada for a short period of time, before being deemed illegal. Super fun. Super tiny. Super terrifying. I could push out my own car when it got stuck in the snow.

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be any why?

A: Hagglunds BV206. 17 seat, all terrain, amphibious tracked vehicle good for town or out on land.  I’d be able to take the whole extended family to the cabin, e.g. fishing, all year round.

Q: What has been you most embarrassing moment?

A: Too embarrassed to tell you.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?
A: Inuit politician with a well developed media presence; can be found on FaceBook and Twitter: @MayorMadeleine

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?
A: I’d be taller.

Q: What do you most value in other people?
A: People’s capacity for tolerance despite all the efforts made to keep them apart and divided.

Q: Mac or PC?
A: Long-time Mac user.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
A: Right here. Canada’s coolest arctic capital.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?
A: Shelagh Grant, Arctic Imperative

Q: What is your favorite movie?
A:  Atanarjuat (The Fast Runner)

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?
A: Try to play badminton and swim regularly and downhill ski any chance I get.

Q: What pastime do you do to relax?
A: I enjoy cooking, especially for family and friends.

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor?

A: Best moment is learning and getting a tour of all the municipal facilities; getting to know our staff and the excellent services they provide to our community.

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
A: The one I have now. Very dynamic, interesting and exciting!!

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?
A: Be with my family and friends.

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?
A: A taster of all my favourite foods from around the world.

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?

A: Jasmine has already inherited many of my personality traits but if I were to add another one, I’d like her to be more confident about her capabilities.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: Our family dog, Girl Puppy (we didn’t intend on keeping her but we did and the name stuck).

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: To be open minded along with bringing their sense of adventure and humour.  There are lots of different and interesting experiences to be had in Iqaluit and Nunavut.

Follow Madeleine on Twitter

Meet more Canadian Mayors in this unique series of articles

When it comes to cancer research, Canadians want to do more

We have the answer and it takes just 30 or so minutes to sign up. The Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project is looking for 300,000 Canadians between the ages of 35 and 69 to participate in a landmark Canadian study designed to help us better understand cancer and other chronic diseases, like heart and lung disease or diabetes. By following a large group of people over many years, researchers can explore how genetics, environment, lifestyle and behaviour interact and contribute to the development of cancer and other chronic diseases.

“This type of research is often difficult because it is complex, time consuming and extensive resources are required,” says Dr. Heather Bryant, Vice-President of Cancer Control, Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. “By joining this landmark study, Canadians will be contributing to the creation of a rich national bank of health information to help researchers answer fundamental questions about the causes of cancer and chronic disease for future generations.”

Study participants will be asked to provide information about their health, lifestyle and environment, biological samples such as urine and blood, and physical measurements such as weight and height. By following participants over the long term, researchers will be able to build layers of information that will create a rich understanding of how all of these factors interact to affect health. It is much more than a single study: it is the construction of a population laboratory that will yield results for decades to come.

“Like many Canadians, I have been personally affected by cancer and have often felt powerless in the face of this devastating disease,” says Jan Duff, a study participant. “By participating in the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project, I know that I’m making a simple contribution that could make a significant difference in cancer research, and prevent my children and grandchildren from ever developing the disease.”

How to Join

Make a commitment to cancer research by participating in the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project, please visit www.partnershipfortomorrow.ca.

In contrast to the historic Great Wall, which is quite expansive, their knowledge of China was very narrow in scope. That all changed, however, when they joined the Chimo Chinese Club in December. Through the club, the three students at Chimo Elementary School in Smiths Falls, Ont. and seven other members of the student body in Grades 4 to 8 expanded their linguistic and cultural horizons with regards to the world’s most populous country.

The club was organized by Ming Shan Gu. A teacher in China for 13 years, she, her husband Chuangwei Mu and their daughter Ivy left their homeland in the fall of 2003 to begin a new life in Canada. Having made their home in Smiths Falls since 2008, Ming says she started the club to let local youth know about her native China and that it is much more than what they read on the Internet.

“We moved from China, we came here, we like this place,” she states. “If we could do something to make life more interesting, we would like to share the culture (of China) and let people know more about other countries.”

That is what the Chimo Chinese Club is all about. For 90 minutes on four Wednesday evenings in December, Ming, with the assistance of Chuangwei, treated club members to a taste of her homeland, culinary and otherwise. In addition to sampling pork dumplings which they helped to prepare, the students received a lesson in the traditional Chinese paper art of paper folding, paper cutting and calligraphy. Likewise, they were introduced to the Mandarin language, learning how to say phrases likes Happy New Year, Merry Christmas, as well as how to greet someone and apologize.

Given the fact that learning a new language is not an easy feat, Ming was amazed at the progress of the students in developing conversational skills in Mandarin.

“They caught on just great,” she says smiling. “I was impressed. I think younger children really have the capability to learn a new language.”

For Selena, Ami and Avery, the club has been a great learning opportunity, not only from a linguistic point of view. They also have enjoyed learning how to count from one to 999 in Mandarin and how to write the numbers from one to 10 using characters.

“It was easy because of Ming,” Ami, a Grade 6 student at Chimo, notes. “If we didn’t understand something, she would explain it. She is really good at explaining how it works.”

That included demonstrating to the students the use of the traditional Chinese brush, ink and inkstone to write words, characters and draw. The youths participating in the club were fascinated by the process.

“It was really cool,” Ami remarked. “It is really fun to write with. You are painting but writing at the same time.”

Club highlights

Doing the ink painting and drawing was so much fun for Ami that it was her favourite activity of the club. The same was true for Avery who is in Grade 5 at Chimo. Of course, making the dumplings was also popular with her.

“Making dumplings was really fun,” she said. “It was a hands-on activity….We got creative and folded them in all different ways.”

Preparing the dumplings and getting to eat them after they were cooked was likewise a highlight for Selena, a Grade 6 student.

“I have never really tried or made dumplings,” she commented. “It was really new to me. They tasted good.”

In organizing the club for the students, Ming says she just wanted “to tell them the real China.” Based on the response from those who participated, she obviously had a captive audience.

“It was amazing,” she says of the response. “I am impressed with the kids’ progress – their ability to absorb a different culture’s information. Every class, when I finish, they don’t want to go home.”

The club, which was free other than the cost of supplies, was an educational experience that Ami, Selena and Avery would like to repeat. That’s why they are thrilled by the news that Ming is considering starting up a second club in February at the school. She has indicated that, if there is sufficient interest, she would like to continue the club at Chimo, with students from other area schools being invited to participate as well.

“If they are doing it at the school, I would definitely sign up,” says Avery. “Just to see Ming again and have another wonderful experience with her.”

And she, Ami and Selena would certainly recommend the club to others.

“I would tell them to sign up,” says Selena. “It is a lot of fun. You get to learn stuff and make more origami things.

Avery agrees. “You get to know a whole bunch of stuff about China,” she remarked. “Later on in life, if you go there, you will get to use your knowledge.”

In May 2010, a delegation of Chinese educators visited Chimo. School principal Daryl Kelly views the club as “a nice opportunity to continue the cultural focus with our Chinese community and for the children to have an opportunity to learn more about another culture.”

“It is always wonderful to have additional opportunities for different kinds of learning happening in our school,” Daryl says.

The feedback Ming has received from the recent club has been so positive that she has had several inquiries asking her to hold a class on Chinese cooking for adults. She is seriously considering doing so, perhaps as early as February. If she does proceed and the class is held at Chimo, she plans to donate any proceeds back to the school.

“I really appreciate the school’s support,” she says, noting that the school has offered the facility free of charge for the club and Daryl and teacher Karen Donovan have been very supportive of the initiative. “I would like to support the school as well.”

Other cultural endeavours

Every kid can have the opportunity to experience other cultures

Ming is passionate about sharing the culture and language of her homeland with others. As principal of the Eastern Ontario Wenbo Language School, which is affiliated with the International Language Program of the Ottawa French Catholic School Board, she is currently offering a Chinese Mandarin Language and Culture Program on Saturday mornings at Académie catholique Ange-Gabriel in Brockville. Currently 75 students from throughout the Brockville area, including Mallorytown, Lyn and Gananoque, are enrolled in the classes, which are open to children ages four to 14. There is an adult class as well.

From March to June 2010, a similar program was offered on Saturdays at Sainte Marguerite Bourgeoys School in Merrickville to children in the same age group. Likewise, Ming held a Chinese summer camp at Académie catholique Ange-Gabriel in July 2010. The camp was so successful she plans to repeat it this summer. If it is feasible, she would also like to have a summer camp in Smiths Falls.

“I try to deliver the message that every kid can have the opportunity to experience other cultures, even for small town kids,” she says as she talks about her motivation for these endeavours. In the fall of 2010, Ming’s husband Chuangwei was part of an education delegation that travelled to Zhengzhou, China. The trip culminated in the signing on Oct. 22 of a sister school board agreement between the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) and Zhengzhou Municipal Education Bureau (MEB).

As part of the agreement to enhance the educational and cultural exchange between the two and share education resources, the UCDSB will organize summer and winter camps for students of Zhengzhou MEB and, accordingly, students from the UCDSB will be invited to Zhengzhou for a cultural exchange.

Likewise, under the agreement, students from Zhengzhou No. 9 High School will have the opportunity to complete their secondary school education with the UCDSB. Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI) is one of seven high schools within the UCDSB that can accept international students. Currently more than 70 students from Zhengzhou are attending classes at SFDCI and in Brockville. Upon graduating, they will be granted an Ontario Secondary School Diploma, as well as one from their homeland.

Already, 31 students have been recruited by the Chinese school to come to Canada. Chuangwei will be among those going to China in March to recruit additional students.

Having students from China attend SFDCI is “just another connection” between the two countries, says Daryl Kelly. And the Chimo principal believes the Chimo Chinese Club helps to further that connection.

“It’s another opportunity for awareness of how students in different countries grow up and live their lives,” she states.

Highlighting how Ming “certainly brings a real passion to sharing her culture, Daryl thinks that passion is infectious, in terms of the students in the club.

“I think she instills a feeling of pride in our children as they share their Canadian culture and family culture,” she commented.

Further information on the Chimo Chinese Club and other cultural initiatives in which Ming is involved can be obtained by contacting her by phone at 613-283-5044 or by email at e.owls2010@gmail.com.

Sister Cities

The Town of Smiths Falls has a close relationship with one of China largest urban centres, Xiangfan City (recently renamed Xiangyang). The two became “Sister Cities” on Oct. 18, 2009 in Smiths Falls with the signing of an agreement by Smiths Falls Mayor Dennis Staples and Zhi Liang Tang, Chairman of Standing Committees of the People’s Congress of Xiangfan City, Hubei Province, China.

The proclamation stated that, “as sister cities, the council and the city assembly pledge that they will encourage regular, ongoing communication and co- operation on economic/business trade; culture; education; science and technology; health and well being; tourism and will promote collaborative development in both cities.”

A historical and cultural city in the southwest region of Hubei Province, Xiangyang has a population of 5.8 million people and is considered a major industrial hub.

“The Town of Smiths Falls has a Sister-City Agreement with the City of Xiangyang, China and has signed two formal agreements and six additional MOU’s that will see collaboration on tourism, arts and culture, commerce, investment, education and external affairs,” says Bob Cheetham, the Economic Development Manager for Smiths Falls.

Anyone interested in learning more about Smiths Falls and what the town has to offer newcomers to Canada is encouraged to visit the website www.immigratetosmithsfalls.ca.

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Contents of this issue:

Niagara Falls has a lot to offer the winter tourist, Valentines Day, 5 Canadian hotspots, Nova Scotia eagle watch, Stanley Park, Vancouver, Time to choose your summer camp kids, Ottawa, Canada’s capital of culture, 11 job search tips for 2011, Dealing with foreign military service in Canadian career search documents ,Should you contribute to your RRSP, your TFSA or both?, Test drive: Dodge Minivans, When is green really green?, Meet the Mayor series, Interview with Toronto singer/songwriter Moonlyn, Day in the life of a Realtor, Immigration news, Life in the city of Greater Sudbury, Real Life: Canada calls Argentinian family, Meet the Mayor of Lunenburg, Chinese club in Smiths Falls, Hastings County, Part 2 of Could a cure for Multiple Sclerosis be just around the corner?

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Peter Kelly has been Mayor of Halifax, Nova Scotia for ten years

Mayor Kelly has received numerous awards for his service and contributions to the community, including the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada, the Gold Scroll of Recognition from the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities, the Outstanding Leadership Award from the Metro Food Bank, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and the Aliant Telecom Pioneers Partner Excellence Award.

He was the founder of of the Atlantic Mayors’ Congress (AMC) in 2001 and has served as its chair since that date. The AMC allows the Atlantic municipalities to explore common ground and form partnerships where appropriate.

Mayor Kelly is an active participant in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Big City Mayors’ Caucus (BCMC) and is involved with several of the Caucus’s working groups, including Transit, Revenue Sharing, and Immigration.

So now lets put politics aside and find out about the man behind the Mayoral chain.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: A blue Ford Pinto

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be and why? A: A fire-engine red BMW Z4 convertible, because it’s such a beautiful car.

Q: What has been your most embarrassing moment and why? A: It was when I was a student living in residence at university. One morning, I went into the men’s washroom and came across a woman, taking a shower.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you? A: That I like to prepare and cook food. Actually, I’m not a bad cook.

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be? A: I’d like to be more outgoing because I’m still rather a shy person.

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Respect and honesty.

Q: Mac or PC?

A: Mac but I can only afford a PC.

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why? A: A family vacation to Orlando, Florida. It was wonderful to see Disney World through the eyes of my two sons, both of whom were quite young at the time.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why? A: There’s no place I’d rather live than right here. Seriously!

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Star Wars Trilogy.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading? A: “Margin: Restoring Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Time Reserves to Overloaded Lives” by author Richard A. Swenson.

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?

A: Hockey and soccer.

Q: What pastime do you do to relax?

A: Reading and cooking.

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?

A: My best and worst moments both involved Harbour Solutions, the largest capital project in our history. Harbour Solutions was a $333-million clean-up of Halifax Harbour involving miles of new underground pipes and three state- of-the-art wastewater treatment plants, the largest of which is in Halifax. My best moment was in February, 2008. That’s when the Halifax plant became operational and continued to operate flawlessly until the following winter. Then came my worst moment. In January, 2009, an extended local power failure damaged the equipment so severely it was not until May, 2010, that we could bring the plant back on stream. I’m happy to say that everything is now working fully and Halifax Harbour is the cleanest it has been in more than 260 years.

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?

A: I already have it!

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?

A: I would make peace with myself, my family and my Maker.

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?

A: An old-fashioned turkey dinner.

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be? A: Compassion.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: The various Christmas ornaments that my mother gave me over the years. They have great sentimental value.

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Enjoy life and get involved in the community.

Reach me here at City Hall (about anything) at kellyp@halifax.ca or by phoning 490-4010. I also invite you to join me on Twitter http://twitter.com/mayorpeterkelly

Vote for your great place

As of January 25, 2011, the results so far are:

• In British Columbia., George Little Park Spirit Square in Terrace has attracted 1,330 votes – far more than any other location in Canada, and way ahead of the top pick inVancouver, Van Dusen Botanical Garden, which has 189 votes.
• In the Prairie Provinces, the Town of Canora in Saskatchewan is the leader with 183 votes. The top place in Alberta, RiverWalk in Calgary, has 97 votes. The Exchange District in Winnipeg is the front-runner in Manitoba with 47 votes.
• In Ontario, Zwicks Park in Belleville has the most votes with 546. Interestingly,Toronto leads with the most nominations, but this has split the voting with its most popular place to date, St. Lawrence Market, getting only 28 votes.
• In Quebec, Le Parc des Chutes Montmorency leads with 791 votes but Auberge le Baluchon is right behind it with 787. These are the second and third most popular nominations in Canada
• In the Atlantic Provinces, Pippy Park in Newfoundland and Labrador leads the way with 592 votes, with City Market in Saint John, New Brunswick, being a distant second with 64 votes. The Hydrostone in Halifax has 57 votes while Prince Edward Island’s Charlottetown has 42 votes.

“We’re seeing a great deal of friendly rivalry as Canadians vote for their local places, and the competition is heating up as we enter the last two months of the contest,” says Steven Brasier, Executive Director of the Canadian Institute of Planners.

Will your city or town be among the Great Places in Canada?

Go to www.greatplacesincanada.ca to nominate or vote for your favourite street, open space, or community. Also check out the website for the most recent voting numbers and popular entries.

“It’s a reverse brain drain,” said Minister Kenney. “We’re making it easier for Canadians abroad to bring their skills home and contribute to the Canada of tomorrow.”

We’re making it easier for Canadians abroad to bring their skills home and contribute to the Canada of tomorrow said Kenney

For some Canadian workers living abroad, an obstacle to returning to Canada is that their non-Canadian spouse, common-law partner or dependent children may be unable to work until they are processed as permanent residents, which usually takes between six months and one year.

Since November 22, family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents returning to work in Ontario in the health care and academic sectors have been able to get temporary work permits immediately upon arriving in Canada. Ontario’s health and academic sectors have faced significant skill and labour shortages in recent years and were identified as the most appropriate sectors for the pilot project.

“By encouraging highly-skilled workers to come back to Canada, we are laying the foundation for long-term economic growth,” added the Minister.

A pledge to establish this pilot project was included in the 2008 Temporary Foreign Worker agreement between the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario. It is operating on a trial basis until May 22, 2012. Upon completion of the pilot project, the government will evaluate the initiative’s effectiveness.

“I thought that was really extraordinary,” says Maggie Jacques, special collections librarian at the Petawawa Public Library, who helped place the 20-year-old interview online. It was part of a collection of interviews with city’s early residents. When it comes to online research, she notes, “You never know where it will take you.”

Our Ontario is partnering with more than 30 public libraries and 20 other community organizations from across Ontario

The audiocassette recording was digitized thanks to a two-year project coordinated by Knowledge Ontario (KO), a provincial not-for-profit collaborative. The Community Digitization Project (CDP) is an extension of KO’s Our Ontario service, which provides the tools and support for Ontarians to create and display digital content for online discovery.

Genealogists are not alone in benefiting from the CDP, which already has created more than 36,000 digital files of everything from 19th-century photographs to old diaries. In Prescott-Russell, a largely francophone area east of Ottawa, the OPP used heritage photos from the collection for their annual calendar.

The CDP has also created something of an information avalanche for participating institutions. Jacques notes that patrons who see staff digitizing materials with scanners, cameras and other equipment often ask how they can contribute.

CDP partners often run “digitization days” to encourage residents to bring in family materials and collections from their basements and attics (the materials are later returned to their owners). People respond in droves, often revealing lost treasures. In Tweed, a small town north of Belleville, residents who heard about the CDP contributed images and documents about Sulphide, a mining ghost town.

Loren Fantin, project manager for Our Ontario, delights in the program’s popularity. “We work hard to ensure that we make Our Ontario tools and services accessible and easy to use for both novices and expert users. It’s terrific to bring Ontario communities on board so they can share and tell our stories to a wide audience.”

Our Ontario is partnering with more than 30 public libraries and 20 other community organizations from across Ontario to implement the CDP. Funded through a $15-million grant to Southern Ontario Library Services and Ontario Library Services North from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture, CDP partners are provided with valuable equipment, staff and training, at no cost to the participating institutions. “I’m very thankful to Knowledge Ontario for supporting us,” says Jacques.

Organizations participating in the project stretch across almost 1,500 kilometres of the province. They include libraries and museums with large archives; single-person libraries, such as the Head, Clara and Maria Public Library, north of Algonquin Park; Franco-Ontarian community organizations like the West Nipissing Public Library, near North Bay; and a First Nations library, the Kanhiote Tyendinaga Territory Public Library near Deseronto.

Communities all over Ontario are excited to tell their stories. Find them here.

The  survey in the three countries also shows that American men are searching for clothing, tools, furniture and electronics deals through group buying, while Canadian and British women use group buying to get spa, cosmetics or salon discounts.

Canada becoming more price sensitive after taking advantage of a group buying offer

Awareness

Groupon has effectively achieved “top-of-mind” status on this new category of group buying facilitators. About half of Americans (45%) have heard of Groupon, along with 35 per cent of Britons and 34 per cent of Canadians. Groupon has the highest level of awareness with competitors trailing far behind. Second to Groupon are WagJag in Canada (23%), EverSave in the U.S. (20%) and Groupola in Britain (9%).

About half of respondents in the three countries (USA 41%, BRI 55%, CAN 51%) had not heard of any of the group buying websites mentioned by name in the survey. In Britain, of those who hadn’t heard of the sites, two thirds were over the age of 55 (62%) while roughly half of those under 55 had not heard of them either (18-34: 53%, 35-54: 51%). American and Canadian men are more likely than women to have not heard of group buying.

Habits of Group Buyers

Americans are most likely to purchase restaurant or food-related group buying deals (46%), product deals such as clothing, tools, furniture or electronics (43%) or entertainment deals like movie and concert tickets (39%). British men are more likely to buy restaurant and food deals from group buying websites (44%) while women prefer spa, salon and cosmetic deals (37%). Canadian women also buy spa and salon deals (42%) but both genders participate in restaurant deals (70% of men and 59% of women). Deals for children are the least purchased in Britain and Canada (8% and 4%) while spa and salon deals are the least bought in the U.S. (13%).

Habits of Non-Group Buyers

Americans who have not bought a group deal say this is because they had not heard of the concept (12%) or aren’t interested in group buying (27%). One-in-five Americans (18%) who haven’t bought from any group buying sites say this is because they do not want to share their credit card information. In Britain, some of those who have not participated also cited not wanting to share their credit card information (14%) but for the most part hadn’t seen any deals that were of interest to them (59%). When asked why they have not bought any group deals, Canadians mentioned not having heard of group buying until now (37%) or not having seen any deals they wanted to participate in (27%).

Regional Differences

In the United States, awareness about the concept of group buying is lowest in the Midwest with 46 per cent of respondents saying they have not heard of any of the listed group buying websites. Two thirds of people in the Northeast have heard of one or more of the sites (67%). Awareness is consistent throughout Britain, although Scotland has the highest level of awareness (53% of Scots have heard of one or more of the sites listed). In Canada, awareness is lowest in the Atlantic Provinces and Quebec (74% report having not heard of any of the websites listed) and highest in British Columbia, where 65 per cent of respondents have heard of one or more group buying websites.

Gender Differences

In Canada, women are driving the group buying trend, with 19 per cent having bought from Groupon (compared to 11% for Canadian men). Both genders are equally likely to purchase from group buying sites in the United States (Men 20%, Women 19%) and Britain (Men 20%, Women 17%).

Men in Britain are most likely to allow a group buying deal they’ve purchased to expire before they get a chance to use it (44%). Less than a quarter of British women (24%) have allowed a deal they bought to expire. In Canada, women are more likely than men to tell their friends about group buying deals they’ve seen using Facebook, Twitter or email (46% of women and 27% of men). As a result, one third of Canadian women who have purchased a group deal have received a referral incentive (29%). Nearly half of Americans who have bought a group deal have purchased it as a gift for someone else (45%).

Effects on Consumer Loyalty

In Britain, 26 per cent of men have purchased a deal, used it at a vendor, and then returned to that same vendor at full price. Only seven per cent of British women return to pay full price. American men are twice as likely as women to return (36% to 18%). In Canada, women are more loyal (28%) than men (19%) when it comes to returning to a vendor at full price.

Purchasing Habits

Among the three countries studied, Americans are least likely to pay full price and try to seek out a deal (35%), followed by Britons at 31 per cent and Canadians at 29 per cent. Almost two thirds of American men (64%) are willing to pay more for something they really want, but prefer to get a deal. Two thirds of women in Britain (68%) like to get a deal but will pay full price for something they really want. In Canada, 70 per cent of men and 65 per cent of women like to get a deal but will pay full price if required.

Al least three-in-five Britons (68%), Americans (66%) and Canadians (62%) who have bought a group buying deal say it has made them more price-sensitive and as a result they now think twice before paying full price.

Long-Term Effects

Two-in-five British men (40%) and one third of Canadian men (33%) who have purchased from a group buying website, feel that group buying ultimately harms the small businesses that participate in it—only 19 per cent of British women and 13 per cent of Canadian women share this view. Three-in-ten Americans (29%) feel group buying is detrimental to small business.

The trend of group buying is on the rise, as evidenced by the many websites that have followed Groupon’s model. More than two thirds of respondents in all three countries who have made a purchase from a group buying website say that the concept will affect the way consumers shop in the future (CAN 74%, BRI 64%,USA 61%).

Full Report, Detailed Tables and Methodology (PDF)

Originally from Quebec she moved to Toronto in 1942 where she met and married her husband Sam who sadly died in 1997. The couple have three children.

Hazel McCallion has been Mayor of Mississauga, Ontario since 1978

She began her political career in Streetsville, Ontario. She began as chair of the Planning Board in the late 1960’s and then became deputy reeve and then reeve. In 1970 she became Mayor of Streetsville and when Mississauga was established in 1974, Streetsville was merged with it. She was elected Mayor of Mississauga in 1978 and the rest, as they say, is history.

Mayor McCallion was one of the first Mayors to commit to pay-as-you-go philosophy which has meant the city has not had to borrow money since 1978 and is currently debt-free.

In 2005 Mayor McCallion was appointed Member of the Order of Canada and received her Insignia of Member of the Order of Canada at a ceremony held at Rideau Hall on November 18, 2005. This is the highlight of many awards and accolades she has received over the years.

We hope that you will get to know Mayor McCallion a little better with our Q&A sections which she kindly agreed to take part in.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: A  Ford

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be and why?

A: A Bentley because of the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?

A: That I do my own grocery shopping, cleaning and cooking.

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?

A: I wish I were younger as there are still so many things I would like to do.

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Loyalty

Q: Mac or PC?

A: Mac, I use an iPad.

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?

A: Probably Dubai. I spent the day riding a camel in the desert.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

A: China. The people there are so friendly and their growth is so impressive.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: I don’t go to movies.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?

A: I read “Starting Your Day Right” by Joyce Meyer everyday.  It has an inspiring quote for each day of the year and keeps me motivated.

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?

A: I support the value and benefits of all sports but there has always been a special place in my heart for hockey as I used to play professionally when I was a young woman.

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: I love to garden.

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?

A: Receiving the Order of Canada in 2005. I haven’t had a worst as I consider everything that I experience, positive or negative, as an opportunity for growth.

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?

A: A gardener.

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?

A: Spend it with my family.

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?

A: Rainbow Trout.

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?

A: My work ethic and enjoying being with people.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: My dog Missy.

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Work hard and never give up and be confident in your ability to accomplish things.

We thank Mayor McCallion for agreeing to answer our questions and wish her all the best for her continued success.

Lawrence Mawhinney Mayor of Lunenburg Nova Scotia

The town has been built around the fishing and ship-building industries and is a popular location for tourists with its beautiful waterfront and great architecture. Old Town Lunenburg has been designated by the Government of Canada as a place of National Historic Significance. Lunenburg is part of the family of National Historic Sites, one of more than 800 places across Canada which help define the important aspects of Canada’s diverse heritage and identity.

In 1979 Laurence Mawhinney was voted in as Mayor of Lunenburg and he has been so ever since, a total of 32 years. This makes him one of the longest serving Mayors in the country.

He was originally born in Belfast, Northern Ireland 69 years ago and moved to Canada with his family when he was a young boy back in 1948. He lives with his wife Marion and they have four adult children and seven grandchildren.

We asked Mayor Mawhinney a few questions to get to know him a little better.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: A 1959 Vauxhall

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be and why?

A: The latest fuel efficient car, just because.

Q: What has been your most embarrassing moment and why?

A: When I tapped the young lady ahead of me in the waiting line, on the shoulder, beside her long blonde tresses, and said excuse me Ms, to tell her the next wicket was open at the bank, and He turned around and gave me a look that would wither, and it did!

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?

A: I think I am a romantic at heart.

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?

A: My age, I’d roll it back about 40 years just to try and get some more things right.

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Their friendship and trust.

Q: Mac or PC?

A: PC

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?

A: Chile. I travelled to Chile in 2007 along with David Suzuki. We were invited to deliver lectures to the University Community in Santiago. Travelling in Chile for about a week with Dr. Suzuki and his wife, was in itself a marvelous experience, to visit another UNESCO site, Valparaiso, made it even more memorable. We were hosted by the Canadian Ambassador and escorted by a member of the staff at the University.

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

A: Right where I am, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, a UNESCO World heritage site since 1995.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: I have many, “The American President,” would be one.

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?

A: “My Passion For Design” by Barbra Streisand.

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?

A: I play golf, I played football, hockey and baseball and now enjoy them on TV.

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: Listen to music and read.

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?

A: The best moment was the first (and so far only) visit of British Royalty to our town in its 258 years of history. On June 16, 1983 Prince Charles and Diana, The Princess of Wales, visited Lunenburg on what was a terrible day for weather. It almost didn’t happen but it did because the Royals insisted it should, despite the fog and the rain.

A close second would be December 9, 1995, the day on which we waited anxiously as the UNESCO World Heritage committee met in Berlin and inscribed Old Town Lunenburg on the World Heritage List. We are now one of 911 properties around the globe who are deemed to have outstanding universal value for all the people of the planet.

And your worst? The day the Royal visit was cancelled. And for three hours we were devastated.

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?

A: I like the job I have, just fine.

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?

A: Make contact with all my family.

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?

A: Lobster.

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?

A: A sense of humour.

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: A silver Pencil given to me when as a young boy I left Northern Ireland, inscribed with the date of my departure in 1948.

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Take time to get to know us before you try to change us. You can lead us but you can’t push us.

Muchmor thanks Mayor Mawhinney for taking the time to answer our questions. Here’s to his next 32 years……

Find out more about living in, travelling to and working in Town of Lunenburg Nova Scotia

There are currently around 56,000 cadets throughout Canada.

The Canadian Cadet Organization (CCO) allows young Canadians aged between 12 and 18 years to participate in organized activities which are both challenging and rewarding in a properly supervised environment. There are currently around 56,000 cadets throughout Canada.

There are three units to the cadets: Sea, Air and Army. Cadets can join any unit and take part in local, regional and national activities. As a cadet you are encouraged to be an active member of the community and learn skills such as leadership, teamwork, citizenship and fitness. In turn you will gain self confidence, decision making skills and gain physical fitness. Through the program young cadets learn about the Canadian Forces although there is no expectation to join the military, nor are the cadets part of the Canadian Forces.

The CCO is open to both young men and women (aged 12-18) from all across Canada and from all levels of society. The Department of National Defense incurs all costs, so there are no costs to join, no fees and no cost for the uniforms or the training. So this makes the cadets an ideal solution for families on a budget who still want to participate in such activities.

Training:

During the school academic year (September – June) cadets take part in weekly training, one night per week. There may also be the option of weekend training depending on the unit chosen.

During the summer you will be able to take part at one of the 28 summer training centres located across Canada. Depending upon which element you choose to join, you may participate in rappelling, adventure training or survival exercises for Army

Cadets, flying and gliding exercises for Air Cadets, and navigation and seamanship activities for Sea Cadets. All cadets are also provided with the opportunity to participate in marksmanship and biathlon competitions, map and compass exercises, as well as drill. Other activities focus on developing leadership, self-discipline and citizenship skills, including the Cadet Harassment and Abuse Prevention Program (CHAP).

Through CHAP, cadets are sensitized to the various forms of harassment and abuse, and their effects. Method of instruction, public speaking and healthy living courses are also practical components of the regular Cadet Program. Furthermore, cadets frequently enjoy sports, environmental challenges, and music instruction (pipes and drums, or band). Each cadet also participates in a minimum of three field exercises per year.

There are three units to the cadets: Sea, Air and Army

Over 23,000 cadets attend national and regional training every summer at one of the Canadian Forces-conducted Cadet Summer Training Centres (CSTC). Many of these programs include activities such as canoeing, camping, hiking, meteorology, sailing and mountain climbing. These courses last from two to six weeks depending on the speciality training chosen.

If you are doing especially well you may be chosen to take part in international exchanges. Every year a number of senior cadets are chosen on merit to travel to foreign locations such as the United Kingdom, Japan, France, United States, Singapore or Germany. During these exchanges you will be representing Canada and will take part in training and cultural activities with your foreign cadet counterparts.

Other specialized training is also offered for advanced cadets. These include marksmanship competitions both in Canada and nationally as well as parachute courses. Cadets who take part in summer training also receive a weekly training bonus – so you get paid for having fun! If you are 16 years or older and have reached a certain standard you can choose to become a Staff Cadet (course instructor) at one of the summer centres.

Visions and Objectives:

The three aims of the cadets is to:

• Develop leadership and good citizenship
• Promote physical fitness
• Stimulate an interest in the three elements of the Canadian Forces

Cadets core values are:

• Loyalty – the expression of our dedication to the ideals of the Cadet Movement and all its members
• Professionalism – the accomplishment of our tasks with pride and diligence
• Mutual Respect – the treatment of others with dignity and equality
• Integrity – the courage and commitment to exemplify trust, sincerity and honesty

Leadership: Through the cadet program you will learn how to be a fair and responsible leader, take responsibility for your actions and motivate your peers. These skills are not only useful in the cadets but also in all other aspects of your life.

Physical fitness: Being healthy and fit is important to all cadets and you will learn how to maintain a healthy lifestyle whilst participating in fun activities. By competing in individual or team events you will learn that sensible living, healthy eating and remaining active are all important factors to good health and fitness.

The Canadian Forces: Although the cadets are not part of the Canadian Forces you will learn skills that stimulate your interest in the sea, land and air activities of the Forces. You will learn the history of the Canadian Forces as well as skills such as self-discipline, teamwork, leadership and good citizenship.

Sea Cadets:

As you would expect the Sea Cadets activities revolve around naval pursuits. You will learn about sailing, seamanship, shipboard life, naval communications, boat repair, marine engineering and ship deployments. Additionally you will receive tall ship training and power boat handling.

Sea Cadet training is divided into four phases with an additional corps apprenticeship training option for senior cadets. The following subjects are part of the program:

• Bushcraft
• Citizenship
• Drill
• Marksmanship
• Physical Fitness
• Sailing
• Sea Cadet Routine
• Naval Knowledge
• Seamanship
• Leadership
• Instructional Techniques

During summer camps Sea Cadets learn sailing and seamanship activities along Canada’s coastline. Sea Cadets can earn a chance to participate in a national sailing regatta or to sail aboard a tall ship. Around 20% (11,000) of cadets are Sea Cadets with around 4,500 of those participating in sumer training.

There are four phases to the training offered in the Sea Cadets:

Phase 1: Introduction to the cadets, safe handling of a rifle, sailing, camping, sports and community activities. Completing this training is a prerequisite to going to a Summer Training Centre and for promotion to Able Cadet.

Phase 2: Advanced shooting, sailing, seamanship, camping, physical fitness, community activities and parade drill. Completing this training is a prerequisite to going to a Summer Training Centre on a Trade Group I course and for promotion to Leading Cadet.

Phase 3: Sailing theory, advanced rope handling, leadership skills and community activities. Completing this training is a prerequisite to going to a Summer Training Centre on a Trade Group II course and for promotion to Petty Officer Second Class.

Phase 4: In this phase you can become an instructor yourself. Completing this training is a prerequisite to going to a Summer Training Centre on a Trade Group III course or a Specialty course and for promotion to Petty Officer First Class.

There is then the option to pursue Phase 5 where you can lead groups on an outdoor adventure weekend, assist in supervising activities amongst many other opportunities.

Army Cadets:

The Army Cadets is the oldest of the cadets programs with around 35% of cadets belonging to it.

Through active outdoor pursuits like trekking, canoeing, rock climbing and survival training, Army Cadets gain valuable life skills, knowledge of themselves and an awareness of their environment. Army Cadets also learn about army traditions and participate in a variety of national and international expeditions that focus on adventure training, like whitewater rafting, horseback riding and canoeing.

Army Cadet training is divided into four star levels:

1. Green Star: During the first year you will get basic training in bushcraft, citizenship, drill, fundamental training, leadership, marksmanship, public speaking and map & compass.
2. Red Star: This level includes continued training in the Green Star activities as well as first aid knowledge.
3. Silver Star: At this level you will take on more responsibility, learn leadership skills and teach other cadets all you have learnt.
4. Gold Star: At this level you can become a leader at the cadet corps.

Air Cadets:

If you choose to join the Air Cadets you will have the opportunity to earn your civilian pilot licence as well as learn about the traditions of the Royal Canadian Air Force. You will also learn how to fly a glider, allowing you to pursue a career in flying or simply enjoy it as a hobby.

Air Cadet Training is divided into five proficiency levels, including on-the-job training for senior cadets. Some of the courses offered to Air Cadets at the local level are:

• Aircraft identification
• Aircrew survival
• Aeronautical facilities
• Physical fitness
• Drill
• Airframe Structure
• Effective speaking
• Marksmanship
• Principles of flight
• Radio communication
• Propulsion
• Navigation
• Meteorology

During the summer Air Cadets can attend summer training to gain flying and glider scholarships. The Air cadets has the largest proportion of cadets with 45%. Of those around 10,000 attend summer training.

Rewards:

By joining the cadets you will be rewarded with:

• sense of accomplishment
• recognition from your peers and mentors
• once-in-a-lifetime experiences
• life-long friends
• a chance to show case your talents and maturity
• self-confidence, self-discipline, self-esteem and increased self-awareness
• community involvement

So what are you waiting for? Join up now.

The city curls around the shore of Kempenfelt Bay on shimmering Lake Simcoe, and is cocooned by a panoramic combination of hills, farmland and quaint towns. Barrie is over 150 years old, and shows no signs of stagnation.

The history of Barrie:

The Spirit Catcher

Aboriginal communities once occupied the land that is now the urban centre of Barrie. Trappers and fur traders identified the area as Nine Mile Portage, the land route connecting Lake Simcoe to the Nottswasaga River and continuing on to the Georgian Bay. In the early 1800s, the east end of the portage by Kempenfelt Bay was the location of a Hudson’s Bay Company storehouse. During the War of 1812, the British expanded the portage to accommodate wagons carrying troops and supplies from Upper Canada. The route allowed the British to bypass the Americans in Detroit, on their way to posts near Lake Superior and Lake Huron.

During the 1820s, the British chose the area as a location for a military post. Named after Sir Robert Barrie, the admiral in command of the British fleet stationed at Kingston, the settlement of Barrie sprang forth.

Throughout the mid 1800s, the lumber and agricultural industry burgeoned. The local economy continued to spiral upward when the Ontario Simcoe Huron Railway, later known as the Northern Railway, added Barrie to its rail line. The line also operated a steamer that connected Barrie to Orilla and Muskoka.

Barrie became a hamlet in 1853, and was incorporated as a town in 1871. Further boosts came over the next few decades with the construction of a general hospital, a nursing school (which later became Georgian College) and Camp Borden, a Canadian Forces base.

In the 1950s, Highway 400 was built to join Barrie to Toronto and the rest of Southwestern Ontario. This eased the daily commute to and from Toronto, thus prompting many to choose Barrie as their home. In 1959, Barrie matured to city status. A recent land annex and a continual influx of residents have many proclaiming Barrie as one of the fastest growing communities in Canada.

Climate:

Temperatures in Barrie’s warmest months, July and August, can reach 25 ºC (78 ºF) and upwards, making it necessary for lighter clothing and a generous slathering of sunscreen.

Agreeable temperatures accompany the month of May, when the spring air averages 11 ºC (52 ºF), much like the fall, which also hovers in the low teens (50 ºF).

The month of November typically greets winter-like temperatures, as the mercury begins to dip to zero and downwards (20 ºF).

Bundle up during the months of January and February, as they are typically the coldest months in Barrie, averaging around – 8 ºC (17 ºF). The temperature has been known to drop down to – 14 ºC (7 ºF), but this is not extremely cold by northern Canadian standards. Snowfall is ample in January, much to the bliss of winter sport enthusiasts.

The rainiest months are usually August and September, with rainfall averaging 80mm a month. The humidity is generally above 80 per cent year round, so people with the predisposition for curly locks will enjoy (or curse) a head full of them. The humidity also gives a bit more of a bite to winter weather, however it is usually manageable in Barrie.

Enjoying the great outdoors:

Golfing, Cycling and Hiking:

There are at least 11 golf courses in the area. Enjoy the crispness of an early spring morning, or the flaming colours of fall out on the greens. National Pines and Horseshoe Valley, two of the more exemplary courses in the province, are in the vicinity of Barrie. However, other area courses have features that make them enjoyable excursions as well.

Big wheels keep on turning – down the hills of Hardwood Hills Mountain Bike Centre. Spring, summer and fall riders can clutch the bars of their bikes on over 80 km (50 mi) of double and single-track trails, ranging from family friendly to alarmingly gnarly.

Located east of Barrie, along the shores of Lake Simcoe, is Sibbald Point Provincial Park. This recreational area is suitable for all ages, as it has sandy beaches, treed hiking trails and picnic spots. The area was home to the Sibbald family for 130 years. Visitors may tour the Sibbald manor, Eildon Hall (circa 1800s) and St. George Church, the family church. Springwater Provincial Park, north of Barrie, is also a pleasurable diversion from city life. The park’s natural springs have played a large part in the areas reforestation, which have suffered the effects of over-logging. A wildlife area of bears, wolves, owls and swans is also on site.

Kempenfelt Bay, Barrie, Ontario

Lakes and Beaches:

The waters around Barrie win over many visitors, as they are postcard perfect. In summer, lifeguards patrol the sandy beaches of Centennial Beach and Johnson’s Beach. A grand view awaits those who gaze off from the beaches into Kempenfelt Bay – the blues of the water, the gray rocks of the jetty and the polychromatic plants (natural or planted) scattered around the shore imbed lasting visions in the memory.

The beaches often branch into trails suitable for cycling, inline skating and walking. Children’s playgrounds, public boat launches and special events mark Kempenfelt as a happening summer spot. For a short excursion, hop aboard the Serendipity Princess, a replica of a triple-decker paddle wheel boat. Cruises around Kempenfelt Bay operate from June until September and last approximately one hour and 15 minutes.

Warm and clear in the summer, Lake Simcoe is ideal for swimming, canoeing and boating. Travel around the fringes of the lake for desirable spots, some dense with sun lovers, ravenous picnickers and splashing water frolickers. If a location appears remarkably uncrowded and the sun is high in the sky, there is a good chance it is private property, so check for signs.

Skiing and Winter Expeditions:

When the snow comes, and it surely will, out come the skis, snowboards, skates, toboggans and other various winter apparatus. Snow Valley is an exceptional downhill ski hill for children and has some of the best snow tubing facilities in the province. Barrie’s alpine skiing treasure would be Horseshoe Resort. The hill has 22 alpine runs (14 lit for night skiing), a half pipe and a tubing area. The Heights at Horseshoe is designated for members and offers 20 private slopes. Another alpine ski facility near Barrie is Mount St. Louis/ Moonstone Ski Resort, which is 26 km (16 mi) away. Travel 64 km (40 mi) west to whisk down the slopes of Ontario’s largest ski hill, Blue Mountain, located in Collingwood.

Hardwood Hills Nordic Ski Centre, a short drive from Barrie at Oro Station, offers a fully equipped ski centre with 45 km (28 mi) of trails for various levels. Snowshoe trails are extensive as well, with 20 km (12 mi) of both groomed and ungroomed trails.

For the patient soul who is not against staying motionless in colder temperatures for undetermined periods of time, ice fishing may be appealing. Huts can be rented, and bait and licenses are sold in the area.

The Arts and Festivals:

Culture is not lacking in this city – opera, music, stage and art venues flourish. One event of note is Kempenfest. Billed as Canada’s largest outdoor arts and crafts festival, Kempenfest draws hundreds to the lakeshore area to view fine art, sample food, watch live performances and enjoy special activities such as a petting zoo or wall climbing.

A rather startling sight on Barrie’s waterfront is the 20 tonne (44,000 pound) steel ‘Spirt Catcher’. Created for EXPO ’86, held in Vancouver, the statue resembles the Thunderbird, the creature that carries dreams and desires to the Creator, in First Nations mythology. The purchase and donation of Spirit Catcher to Barrie impacted the arts committee, as it inspired the development of a public art gallery – the McLaren Art Centre. Today it has become a city icon and a memorable roadside attraction.

The MacLaren Art Centre accommodates over 40,000 varied art media, mostly Canadian contemporary but some classic items such as the permanent Rodin collection.

Gaming:
Join the roar of the excited crowd at Georgian Downs, which offers year-round harness racing, viewed from the luxury of a glass-enclosed grandstand, as well as slots and games.

For those in the mood for more, head half-an-hour north of Barrie to Casino Rama. Take in a Vegas-style show, spotlighting former singing heart-throbs or hilarious comedians.

Historical and Educational Sites:
Camp Borden, located 34 km (21 mi) southwest of Barrie, was the first military flying field ever built in Canada. In 1924, the base became the birthplace of the Royal Canadian Air Force, with Lt. Col. William J. Barker as commander. Barker went on to become the most decorated war hero in Canadian history. Still an active military base, the site is home to Base Borden Military Museum, which consists of four buildings (one being an aircraft hangar). Many one-of-a-kind land and air artifacts are displayed, some dating back to the First World War. Outside the buildings are 10 vintage flying machines, including an ex-training plane for the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Canada’s acclaimed aerobatic flying team.

Take a mystical trip on an authentic steam locomotive south of Barrie at the Village of Tottenham. The South Simcoe Railway offers a nostalgic 1800s tour on a portion of the route that once connected Hamilton with Barrie and Collingwood. The train chugs forth from mid-May until mid-October, with a few special occasion runs.

Swooping upward, then plummeting towards ground, the birds of the Falconry Centre near Tottenham perform aerial feats daily. Step into the medieval style courtyard to observe this educational research centre’s over 200 falcons, hawks, eagles, owls and vultures.

Shopping and nightlife:

Bayfield Street is known as Barrie’s ‘Golden Mile’, as it features a multitude of shops, malls, restaurants and services. Dunlop Street in downtown Barrie is home to many shops as well, and has the added bonus of being a very short amble to such sites as Heritage Park on Kempenfelt Bay.

Cookstown Manufacturer’s Outlet Mall is a siren’s call that cannot be ignored by die-hard shoppers. A short drive from Barrie, there is also a bus service that takes eager spenders to the mall. Bricks & Blocks (Lego) Outlet, Cadbury Factory Store, Polo Jeans Store, and Jones Factory Finale are just a few of the retail establishments where customers may leave with money still in the wallet.

The Barrie Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday morning in front of Barrie City Hall. Offering a cornucopia of produce, baked goods and handcrafted items, this market has a proud history of over 150 years in Barrie, and attracts locals and visitors alike.

The student population may be partly responsible for Barrie’s active nightlife, but many locals have been known to take advantage of the city’s after dark activities by frequenting one of many pubs, sports bars, lounges, clubs and live music venues. The Molson Centre is often the site of roof-raising concerts.

Dennis Staples (64) has been Mayor of Smiths Falls in Ontario for 16 years

Dennis studied at Carleton University in Ottawa and has held many roles over the course of his life including working in financial management roles at RCA Records, Johnson-Weldon Company Public Accountants, the Ottawa Civic Hospital and the Rideau Regional Centre.

He is an active member of the American Federation of Musicians as well as being a member of the Smiths Falls Rotary Club and a member of the Society of Management Accountants of Ontario for which he received a Honorary Life Membership in 2002 and having receiving his FCMA “Fellow” designation in 1990.

Dennis has been married to his wife Jackie for 44 years and they have two children Tracy and her husband Jeff, and Dennis Jr and his wife Allison have given the couple two grandsons Colton and Clark.

We asked Dennis some questions to allow us all to know the person behind the politics and here are his answers.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: 1964 VW Beetle

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be any why?

A: 1965 Mustang convertible – because it was my favourite of all cars owned

Q: What has been your most embarrassing moment and why?

A: It would be too embarrassing to reveal

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?

A: My sense of humour

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?

A: To have played more sports during my high school years

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Honesty, optimism and a positive outlook

Q: Mac or PC?

A: PC

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?

A: Punta Cana, been there twice with my wife and it has beautiful beaches

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

A: Smiths Falls, a great place, my family is here and many friends

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: Misery

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?

A: Currently reading two: A Journey My Political Life – Tony Blair and Titanic Thompson

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?

A: Golf, hockey, ball, x-country skiing

Dennis loves nothing better than playing guitar in the Downchild Blues Band

Q: What pastime do you do to relax?

A: Play my guitar and reading

Q: What has been your best moment since becoming Mayor? And your worst?

A: The best was assisting with Ice Storm 98  and the worst dealing with the job losses in Smiths Falls

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?

A: The richest person in the world so I could distribute my wealth to others who really need it

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?

A: Spend it with my family and close friends

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?

A: Something simple – soup, salad, rice and a small steak

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?

A: A positive attitude and strong work ethic

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: Probably my old Tele guitar

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: To get involved in the Community, meet people, make new friends

We thank Dennis for taking the time to answer our questions.

You can find out more about living and working in Smiths Falls here

Daryl Bennett is the new Mayor of Peterborough, Ontario

Mayor Bennet is a big advocate of voluntary work having volunteered himself for causes such as the Market Hall Fund Raising Committee, campaigning for a new hospital and the flood relief efforts of 2004. He also served on the board of governors at Trent University between 2000 and 2004. He also served as chair to the Community Futures Board from the mid 90′s to 2007.

He was honored by the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and named Citizen of the Year in 2004.

In the municipal elections in October 2010, Bennett was elected Mayor receiving 58.46% of the votes against incumbent Paul Ayotte and was sworn in on December 1st.

We wanted to get a quick insight into the real man behind the politics, so asked him a series of light-hearted questions which we hope will allow you to know him a little better.

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?
A: 1968 Dodge Charger

Q: If you could own any vehicle what would it be any why?
A: A Bentley because they are well built

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find about about you?
A: I’m a true Gemini as I have a twin sister

Q: If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?
A: My age

Q: What do you most value in other people?
A: Loyalty

Q: Mac or PC?
A: PC

Q: Where has been your most memorable travel destination and why?
A: East Coast Canada, it’s like going back to our routes

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
A: I can and I do – Peterborough, the best place in the world!

Q: What was the last book you read, or are currently reading?
A: Switch

Q: What sports do you support and/or play?
A: Long walks

Q: What pastime do you do to relax?
A: Work

Q: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
A: Politics: to make a difference

Q: If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do today?
A: I live every day like it is my last

Q: If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?
A: Italian

Q: If you could choose one of your personality traits to pass on to your children, what would it be?
A: I have, strong work ethic

Q: If you had to evacuate you home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?
A: Credit card

Q: If you could give a newcomer one piece of advice, what would it be?
A: Pay attention and keep learning all your life

We thank Mayor Bennett for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him well in his new post. If you would like to know more about living and working in Peterborough you’ll find more information here

Back in 2002 the couple, then both in their early thirties moved to Canada as permanent residents. As they had had to wait a couple of years for visa approval they had done a good deal of research including two trips to Vancouver.

“We really loved the vibe of Vancouver,” says Cheryl, “everything about the city was wonderful to us and we decided that this would be out chosen destination. We had made a good amount of money from the sale of our London home and felt that money invested into property in Vancouver would be well spent, despite the high prices.”

During the summer of 2002 they moved to Vancouver

So in the summer of 2002 they moved to Vancouver and employed a Realtor to find them a property whist staying initially in a hotel. “We really needed to find somewhere to live as staying in the hotel was quite costly, even though I had accrued a lot of free nights with my loyalty card.” says Jimmy. In his work as a salesman in the UK he travelled extensively and made sure he had lots of hotel points before making the move to Vancouver.

In the end it took them three weeks to find a suitable property and another eight weeks before they could move in. “Our furniture and personal effects from the UK had arrived a  week after us and had been in storage, so it was nice to finally move into a home and have our belongings again.” says Cheryl.

They continued their lives and Jimmy found a job as a salesman, a very similar job to the one he had in London but this time covering southern British Columbia and Alberta. “The pay was not as good as I had been earning before, but our living expenses were lower, so it evened itself out. Also once Cheryl got a job things were going okay.”

“I got a job as a bookkeeper for a local company.” says Cheryl with a look of distaste on her face. “I had been an accountant in London on very good money and both the job and the money were a letdown, but I figured any job was better than nothing. I kept looking for other more suitable jobs whilst I was there.”

The couple had a passion for outdoor activities and all their spare time was spent either mountain biking, skiing or hiking. “We loved the fact that just a short journey from our home we could explore vast countryside, mountains and even beaches. Just about everything we wanted was nearby.” says Jimmy.

As part of his job Jimmy travelled around both BC and Alberta and in the summer of 2003 took Cheryl to one of his business locations – Calgary. “I had often travelled to Calgary and really liked the city. It was similar in some ways to Vancouver with the mountain backdrop but so different in many others. We spent five days in the city then travelled to Edmonton because Cheryl wanted to shop at the famous Edmonton Mall.”

“Oh my gosh,” exclaims Cheryl at the mention of this mall, “I have never been to anywhere quite like it. No one would describe me as a shopaholic. At best I am a “know what I want and run in and get it” kind of shopper, but this place blew me away. We spent about six hours walking around the mall and I still don’t think we covered it all. There is a theme park, ice rink and swimming pool in the middle of it, can you believe it? I had the most fun I had ever had shopping there.”

Unfortunately real life stepped in and the couple headed back to Vancouver living their lives as normal. By now property prices had risen again and the couple realized they could sell their home and make a decent profit. The trouble was all property in Vancouver had risen so the property they would purchase would also have risen. This led them to consider moving to another location that was cheaper, allowing them to sell for a profit and buy at a lower cost giving them financial security for a year or two. The questions was where?

Jimmy continues the story. “We looked around the Vancouver area but realized we could never afford the type of property we really wanted for a life-long home. We then looked outside Vancouver and still could not decide on the best place to live. So then we decided to look much further afield, even to another province. We spent hours on the Internet researching: It was like moving to Canada all over again”

Eventually in early 2004 they decided to move to Calgary, but to rent rather than buy, at least at first. “Housing prices were high but not as high as Vancouver, and Calgary still had many of the things we loved about Vancouver.” says Jimmy. “There was lots of outdoor activities and we could still mountain bike and hike nearby. I was able to continue with my existing job, but this time work from the Calgary office and Cheryl found an accountancy job she enjoyed in the city.”

But one thing the couple did not fully take into account was the weather

But one thing the couple did not fully take into account was the weather. “Our first winter was brutal for us.” says Cheryl. “By then we were both working in the city and lived on the outskirts and sometimes there were several feet of snow on the ground. We just weren’t used to that and didn’t really like it. In Vancouver we had gotten used to the rain, but could still carry on with life as normal. But in Calgary we could not go out on our bikes for several months of the year and even decent skiing was a couple of hours away. After about eight months we felt we had made a terrible mistake and started to look at moving again.”

It was around this time that Cheryl saw a job advertised within her company for an accountant in one of the Ontario locations. “The job was in London,” she says, “which was quite ironic as this was where we had lived in the UK. The job was for an accountancy position paying good money and so I decided to pursue it. Fortunately I did not have to visit London for the interview, instead I was interviewed via video conference from our Calgary office. After three weeks waiting I found out I had been offered the job and could start in a month.”

The timing was good for them because it coincided with their rental agreement ending and so after careful consideration decided to move to London, Ontario in July 2005. Jimmy gave in his notice and plans for the move were underway. “This was a much bigger move that the one from Vancouver to Calgary,” says Cheryl, “We had to have all our possessions shipped, but fortunately my company helped with the logistics and some of the costs. They also put us in touch with a rental agency to find temporary accommodation.”

So that summer they stepped foot for the first time ever in Ontario, landing in Toronto and spending a couple of days there before moving onto London and their new rental home. “Our new house was the largest place we had ever lived in, it even had a swimming pool in the garden.” says Jimmy. “We had a rental agreement for six months with the option to extend, but as Cheryl loved her job almost the instant she started we decided to look for a property to buy and set down some roots.”

They found that their dollars went a lot further here than either Vancouver or Calgary and instead of looking for small, two-bedroom town houses were looking at large four-bedroom properties with pools and basements. They soon found a property in a sub-division in the north of London and moved in just before their rental term ended. Jimmy also found a job he enjoyed during this time and so for the first time since moving to Canada the couple were enjoying their jobs and their home life.

“I really liked London,” says Cheryl, “we were very close to two malls and had ample grocery stores and other amenities so it worked very well for us. We did find the local countryside to be a little flat and certainly couldn’t truly mountain bike around here, but we liked to drive to the lakeside either to the north or south and cycle along the coastline. We were also told that there were many skiing opportunities nearby so looked forward to the winter months.”

Indeed the couple did find that London suited them very well. Both had good jobs they enjoyed, they had a nice house that they could call home and the location suited their needs, so a perfect end to their story? Well, no not quite.

After living there for three years Jimmy was offered a promotion which would include more money and more perks but there was a catch: It was in Ottawa. “We had visited Ottawa a couple of times since living in Ontario,” says Jimmy, “and we liked it. The job really was a great opportunity, but it was a big decision to make. Cheryl really didn’t want to move again and by doing so she would be out of a job, but my extra income from the promotion would almost make up for her salary. In the end we decided to go for it.”

So one again in 2008 the couple were on the move yet again. It was a tearful goodbye this time as they had settled far better in London than any other place. After a farewell party held by neighbours they moved to Ottawa, having not yet secured a sale of their London home which happened a few months later.

To cut a long story short, or at least a little shorter, they have been now been in Ottawa for two years and are looking to move again as they have never felt truly at home. They plan to move back to London, Ontario and as soon as the winter months are over will put their house on the market and sell. Fortunately Jimmy will be able to transfer his job and so will still have the security of good income coming in and a job he enjoys. Cheryl never really liked her job in Ottawa and so will be looking for employment once there.

“I will contact the company I used to work for,” she says, “but I doubt that it will work out that easily, but you never know. Now that we have made the decision to go back to London I feel much better as I never settled in Ottawa. As soon as we sell we can move because Jimmy can move between the two jobs with very little notice. Hopefully this time we will settle there for good as I really want to stop all this moving around. It gets very stressful.” she giggles.

Those numbers are up from a previous survey for the non-profit research institute, which found in January 2009 that a total of 54 per cent identified themselves only as Quebecers or as Quebecers first.

Jack Jedwab, executive director of the association,said that the poll suggests a long-term distancing of relations between Quebec and the rest of Canada.

“Thirty-one per cent of Quebec francophones see themselves as only Quebecers. That says to me there’s a not insignificant minority of Quebecers who feel a really strong sense of detachment to Canada,” Jedwab said.

Even surges in national pride out of events such as the Vancouver Winter Olympics have only a temporary effect on that distance, he said.

“I still think there’s a lot of ambivalence on the part of francophone Quebecers about their connection to Canada,” he said. “We shouldn’t assume that great events like that are going to have a sustained or long-term effect.”

Quebecers are less likely than ever before to identify themselves as Canadian

Just under 20 per cent of francophones surveyed by pollster Leger Marketing define themselves equally as Quebecers and Canadians, 7 per cent as Canadian first and only 1 per cent as Canadian only.

Jedwab said the detachment from Canada is profound and will be difficult to reverse, at least among Quebec francophones. “They see Quebec as their family and their first reference for them in terms of their attachment.”

And he said it will have major implications in how Ottawa sells Canada inside Quebec.

“We need to think about the message we convey to Quebecers when it comes to issues of identity,” he said. “We have to express our relationship in very pragmatic terms … it’s not an affair of the heart.”

“We have got to get away from trying to, for example, bomb Quebec with love: talking about how much we love Quebecers … we may feel that way, but the reality is that in order to sell Canada within Quebec we’ve got to focus on the things that are pragmatic about our relationship.”

The poll also suggested a widening gap between francophones and anglophones in Quebec when it comes to national identity. Among English-speaking Quebecers, identification with Canada mirrors francophones’ identification with Quebec: 45 per cent define themselves as Canadian first but also as Quebecers, 21 cent as equally Quebecers and Canadians and 18 per cent as Canadians only.

In total, 19 per cent of anglophones define themselves as Quebecers first but also Canadian, and two per cent see themselves as Quebecers only.

Jedwab said the survey also showed attachment to Canada waning among young Quebecers: only 18 per cent of those age 18-24 report strong feelings of attachment to the country.

Hockey is a booming business in Canada with numerous leagues, teams, monuments, memorials and stores all dedicated to the game. Canadian leagues range from amateur leagues for children barely old enough to walk to the revered National Hockey League (NHL).

Whether it be an informal game of shinny on a backyard pond or the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Canadians embrace this game that makes the cold months of winter pass with a little more ease.

A Brief History of the Game

Hockey is a way of life for many Canadians

The origin of this game is widely contested; there is some evidence of hockey-like games conducted on ice throughout Europe between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, as well as claims that Windsor, Nova Scotia or Great Bear Lake in the Arctic are home to the first recorded instances of organized hockey. However, Kingston, Ontario was officially touted as the birthplace of ice hockey by the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association in 1943. This was primarily due to an account of a game between Queen’s University and the Royal Military College of Canada in 1886.

The groundwork for what is known as today’s game was laid in Montreal, Quebec in the late 1800s. The first recorded indoor game was played in this French-Canadian metropolis in 1875 at Victoria Skating Rink. Enthusiasm for the game burgeoned as the McGill University Hockey Club was formed in 1877 and the first ”World Championship” was held at the annual Winter Carnival in 1883.

In 1888, the Governor General of Canada, Lord Stanley of Preston, attended the Montreal Winter Carnival and was noted by newspapers to exude a great deal of exuberance for the sport. After noticing there was no official trophy for the winning team, Lord Stanley bought a bowl, which was titled the Dominion Hockey Challenge Cup and later renamed the Stanley Cup. It was first awarded to an amateur team from Montreal in 1893 and thus began the longstanding tradition of the Stanley Cup. After a long season of high-intensity battles and four rounds of playoffs, the Stanley Cup is presented to the NHL’s reigning victors each year. While there are many individual trophies presented to players and coaching staff, the Stanley Cup, which was redesigned in 1963, remains the most coveted of prizes to be won.

The National Hockey League is Born
In 1917 the NHL was formed in Montreal, Quebec. Beginning with only four teams, the league expanded to 10 teams in its infancy, but was reduced to only six teams by 1942 due to devastation caused by the Great Depression and the second world war.

The NHL Lockout

In 2004, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman announced a lockout after unsuccessful contract negotiations between the National Hockey League Players’ Association and the NHL. The source of the 310 day lockout centred around a salary cap, which intended to limit the amount of money each team could spend on players’ salaries. The NHL became the first professional sports league to miss a full season. A collective bargaining agreement was eventually reached and play resumed for the 2005-2006 season with record attendance levels.

The Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings remained the only six teams in the league for nearly a quarter of a century, resulting in the reference to these teams as the “Original Six.” In the 1960s, the league resumed expansion plans after taking notice of rumours that the Western Hockey League was considering declaring itself a professional league. For the first time since the 1920s, new teams were added and the number of teams continued to climb to the reach its present-day total of 30.

Ice Hockey At The Olympics

Sidney Crosby holds the 2010 Gold

Making its debut at the summer Olympics in 1920, men’s hockey was appropriately moved to the winter games in 1924. Winning six of the initial seven gold medals, Canadian teams excelled for the first decade, but suffered in years to come, because Olympic rules did not permit professional hockey players to participate. It wasn’t until 1988 that these skilled players were afforded the opportunity to play in the games and even then scheduling conflicts between the NHL and the Olympics were problematic. It was in 1998, for the Nagano Olympics, that the NHL first paused its schedule to allow the league’s elite to compete in the games.

Women’s Ice Hockey

In the 1890s Lord Stanley’s daughter, Lady Isobel was photographed playing hockey at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. Over a century later, women’s ice hockey is now rapidly gaining popularity throughout the world.

In recent years, the sport has made significant strides with the development of the National Women’s Hockey League in 1999, as well as its incorporation into the Olympic Games in 1998. For many years, Canadian and American teams dominated the sport at professional levels and were the only two teams to ever reach a women’s world championship final until 2006 when Sweden unsuccessfully attempted to take gold from the Canadian team in Italy.

The Hockey Hall of Fame

Dedicated to the history of the game, this sanctuary of hockey paraphernalia is located in Toronto, Ontario. The league’s ultimate prize, the Stanley Cup, spends half of the year displayed in the Great Hall of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Established in 1943, the Hockey Hall of Fame was originally located in Kingston, Ontario, but moved to Toronto and opened its first permanent location at Exhibition Place in 1961. Still at home in Canada’s largest city, the hall of fame is now located downtown and draws 300,000 visitors each year.

There are 15 exhibits, which provide information about the history of the game and its past players, as well as current statistics, teams and players. There are also interactive displays, such as the Source for Sports Shoot Out, which allows visitors to shoot a puck at a computer simulated version of goalie Eddie Belfour.

Canadian Hockey Heroes

Wayne Gretzky

Achieving celebrity status, Canada’s favourite hockey players have sprouted up all over the country, from small towns in Saskatchewan to major cities in Ontario. There is a long list of past and present Canadian-born hockey heroes, including but not limited to Maurice “The Rocket” Richard, Mark Messier, Bobby Orr, Mario Lemieux, Doug Harvey, Patrick Roy, Gordie Howe and most notably, Wayne Gretzky.

Born in Brantford, Ontario, Wayne Gretzky is nicknamed the “Great One” and is commonly considered the best hockey player of all time. The game’s only player to tally over 200 points in one season, Gretzky led the Edmonton Oilers to win the Stanley Cup four times in the 1980s before a controversial trade to the Los Angeles Kings on August 9, 1988 sent him to the United States. An upsetting day for Canadians, the trade was highly criticized. The leader of the New Democratic Party at the time, Nelson Riis, even went so far as to demand the government stop the move.

There are numerous monuments honouring the hockey icon, including a statue that stands outside of Rexall Place in Edmonton, Alberta where the Oilers currently play. Additionally, one of Edmonton’s busiest streets, which passes by the Oilers’ arena, was renamed Wayne Gretzky Drive in October of 1999. In his hometown of Brantford, Ontario most of Park Road is now officially titled Wayne Gretzky Parkway.

Hockey Day In Canada

Commonly falling in mid-February, Hockey Day in Canada has become an unstoppable phenomenon since its inception in 2000. This unofficial holiday celebrates the “triple header” featuring all six Canadian teams in action, as well as the culture of hockey across Canada. Recently, due to the NHL schedules, the day often features American-Canadian match-ups.

In addition to broadcasting the NHL games, Hockey Day in Canada highlights various tournaments, leagues and hockey players across the country. Each year, infamous Canadian hockey broadcaster Don Cherry and his better-half, Ron Maclean, report from a different remote area of Canada to promote the hockey efforts of smaller communities. In the past, Hockey Day in Canada has featured all-night pick-up hockey games from Red Deer, Alberta and Windsor, Nova Scotia.

The Canadian NHL Teams

Over the years, some Canadian cities have mourned as their teams have relocated to larger American markets, while other parts of the country have feverishly fought for a franchise of their own. Today, there are six NHL teams in Canada: Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens.

Vancouver Canucks
Joining the league in the 1970 expansion, the Canucks are one of two Canadian teams that have never won the coveted Stanley Cup. Advancing to the finals in 1982 and 1994, the franchise was unable to emerge victorious from either contest. The Canucks play at General Motors Place on Griffiths Way in downtown Vancouver near the waterfront.

Calgary Flames
After a stint in Atlanta, Georgia as the Atlanta Flames this team moved to Calgary in 1980 and in 1989 they acquired the Stanley Cup for the first time. In 2004, Calgary Flames fans erupted in manic excitement as the team made a historic, but unsuccessful bid for the hallowed prize. Cheering the team on as they made their way to the final game of the final round of the playoffs, the city came alive with elated fans who filled the Saddledome with a sea of red jerseys.

Edmonton Oilers
Dominating the NHL in the 1980s, the Edmonton Oilers were home to some of the greatest players of all time, including Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. In their first season (1979-1980) the Edmonton Oilers made the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but ultimately lost the championship to the Philadelphia Flyers. Following that loss they would prove themselves to be fierce competitors winning five Stanley Cups in the 1980s. The Oilers’ prominent rival is the Calgary Flames with the contest between the two teams termed the Battle of Alberta.

Ottawa Senators
The original Ottawa Senators team was formed in 1883, but eventually floundered and was no longer a professional team by the 1930s. Returning to professional level ice hockey in the 1992-1993 season, the Ottawa Senators made it to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2007, but were unable to topple the Anaheim Ducks.

Toronto Maple Leafs
One of the original six teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs is one of the most popular teams in the league despite its inability to win the Stanley Cup since their 1967 triumph over the Montreal Canadiens. The Leafs have battled fiercely against the Canadiens, as well as the Ottawa Senators, providing the league with some of the most heated battles and closely watched games. The Toronto Maple Leafs play at the Air Canada Centre, which is connected to Union Station on Bay Street in downtown Toronto.

Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are commonly referred to as the “Habs” derived from the French-nickname Les Habitants (inhabitants). This original six team has won more Stanley Cups than any other NHL team and is the last Canadian team to have claimed the cup with their victory over the Los Angeles Kings in 1993. The Canadiens play at the Bell Centre in downtown Montreal.

And the conclusion is that anywhere is a good place to be if you’re a kid on Christmas morning — but some places are clearly better than others.

“We thought we’d have some fun and check out what are the cities in North America that are the best place to be a kid on Christmas,” said researcher Jim Millway. “Saskatoon is one of the top 10 places in North America — and dare I say, the world — to enjoy Christmas or be a kid at Christmas.”

Saskatoon ranked eighth among all North American cities. Regina ranked 60th, but was still considered the second best Canadian city to be a kid at this time of year. The community with the highest percentage of youngsters under 14 was Laredo, Texas, at 38 per cent.

Ocean City, N.J., turns out to be the sweetest place in North America with 23 candy stores for every 100,000 residents.

Not surprisingly Canadian cities dominate the top 10 places most likely to see snow — with six cities having more than a 95 per cent chance of a white Christmas. Sadly, there were 110 cities across the U.S. and Canada with only a 2.5 per cent chance of having white stuff at Christmas.

When the researchers pulled together all the data, with two candy stores, six toy stores, 26 per cent of the 125,000 residents under 14, and an 82 per cent chance of having a white Christmas, Logan, Utah, ends up being crowned the best place to be a kid at Christmas, followed by Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Fairbanks, Alaska, Billings, Mont., and Ogden, Utah.

While reluctant to tag any one city the “worst place to be a kid on Christmas morning,” researchers suggested kids might want to stock up on goodies and snowballs before being dragged to visit grandparents in places such as Bradenton, Fla., Pine Bluff, Ark., or Johnson City, Tenn.

2011 what will Canadian immigration look like?

CIC have already announced that they aim to welcome between 240,000 and 265,000 new permanent residents during 2011 with the majority of those coming via the economic categories. So what is the government going to do to help these immigrants settle into their new country?

It is a proven fact that many immigrants earn considerably less than their Canadian-born counterparts. Indeed the thought that there are foreign qualified doctors driving cabs in Toronto is unfortunately a reality.

In 2006 CIC announced that they would be investing heavily in settlement and integration services across Canada over the coming years. This has been true and many of these services have received funding for projects such as language proficiency and job training skills. This funding will continue into 2011 to allow even more new immigrants to take advantage of these services.

Many people come to Canada with little or no language proficiency. Obviously this is a huge barrier when looking for employment and indeed living day-to-day. The CIC is working with local settlement agencies to provide free language skills training so that these people can better integrate into their new environment and secure work.

The second biggest barrier for newcomers is the recognition of their foreign credentials. It is understandable that some professions are regulated and that in order to work in Canada newcomers need to update their skills or bring them in line with Canadian qualifications. After all, an electrician moving from England will not be familiar with Canadian wiring and will need to comply with regulations in order to work.

Canada needs to make the transition for these people much clearer and easier. After all it is these very qualifications that allow them to apply for immigration in the first instance, but then once here they cannot practice their chosen profession.

Over the past year or so CIC has put into place measures to help potential immigrants and newcomers to have their credentials recognized in Canada. Details of the Foreign Credentials Referral Office (FCRO) can be found at their website: http://www.credentials.gc.ca/. The FCRO can help with not only credential recognition but with other factors that help foreign trained people to succeed in Canada such as language skills, job searches, fact sheets etc.

Other areas that CIC are working to improve are people who use the immigration system in fraudulent ways. Two major examples are unscrupulous immigration consultants and marriage fraud.

Marriage fraud is a big problem with foreigners marrying Canadians in order to be sponsored and enter the country as permeant residents. Some Canadians and permanent residents are caught out unawares, perhaps meeting someone via travelling or on the Internet. They get into a relationship and then marry, only to find that once the new spouse is safely in Canada the marriage they thought was genuine is no more. Other people enter into this arrangement knowing exactly what they are doing and more often than not money changes hands.

CIC has recognized that this is a very big problem and is trying to put measures into place to prevent this from happening. Currently, as soon as a spousal sponsorship is granted they are given permanent residency and as long as they comply with residency requirements they can stay in Canada indefinitely, even if the marriage on which it was granted is no more. CIC is proposing a change to the rules which will include a three year waiting period before a sponsored spouse can become a permanent resident. Similar rules are in place in Australia, United Kingdom and the United States.

Unscrupulous immigration consultants are another big problem facing immigrants. The majority of immigration consultants are legitimate and ethical, but unfortunately a few bad apples spoil the pie. Some consultants have been charging fees for immigration services that they either don’t provide or they charge far too much for.

CIC will be strengthening the rules for consultants meaning that the current loopholes will be closed. They will be designating a governing body to govern immigration consultants making sure all adhere to strict guidelines.

So, CIC is making some significant changes and putting into place several measures which will hopefully benefit potential immigrants and newcomers. The system is far from perfect, but any improvements are welcomed. Hopefully these will help make 2011 a successful immigration year.

Children of all ages can take part in summer camps as some are just day events whilst others can be a week or even a month or more. Each one offers different activities so you should be able to find one which caters to your interests. There are groups just for boys, or just for girls, but many are mixed. There are also camps for people with special needs, so no one has to miss out on the opportunity. You do have to pay for camps so you will need to do the research with your parents to make sure they can afford the ones you pick!

It's never to early to book your summer camp

How to choose a summer camp

Sit down with your parents and write a list of things that you want from the camp, be it fun stuff, learning skills, your hobbies etc. Your parents should also write a list of what they want you to get from the camp. This might be different to yours but you will probably find that the things you want and the things your parents want can be found at more than one camp. For example you might want to learn to skateboard and your parents want you to gain more self confidence. By selecting the right camp there is no reason why both these things cannot be achieved at the same time.

Once you have decided what you and your parents want from the camp you will need to decide which type of camp you want to attend.

Location: Although you might be restricted by the location, some camps do offer transportation, so look into this if distance could be a problem for you.

Facilities: Your parents might be more concerned about facilities than you, but you need to know what things you expect at the camp. What is the security like, what medical facilities are there, what are the qualifications of the camp supervisors, what type of sleeping arrangements are there, can the camp cater to special needs if required. What type of accommodation is provided i.e. cabins, tents etc?

Some camps are operated by religious bodies, so if this is important to you make sure you are able to practice your religion whilst at camp.

Size: Camps vary in size from tens of people to over 500. Do you want to be part of a large camp or prefer a smaller camp environment? Even the largest camps tend to split children into smaller groups so you still get the individual support you would receive at a smaller camp.

Cost: Of course cost can be a major issue especially if you want to attend several camps or you have brothers and sisters who also need to attend camp. This can mean that your parents are spending a lot of money so you need to be aware of this and not be too selfish in your needs, after all there will still be next year to try something different.

You also need to be aware of what is included in the cost such as equipment, trips, transport as these items can add considerably to the overall cost if not included.

Costs vary greatly from camp to camp from around $200 for a day camp to several thousand dollars for a month long camp. Fortunately there are lots to choose from so hopefully you will find one in your parents budget.

Duration: Camps can last anything from a few hours to several weeks. You and your parents need to be sure that you are prepared to be away from home for the length of your trip. Some children love being away from home and enjoy the freedom, but others may get very homesick and want to go back home after a day or two.

Check to see if there is an option available to cut the duration sort if you find you want to go home early. Is there a refund policy in this case?

Activities: This is the most important decision as far as the children are concerned because it is what you will be doing whilst away at camp. Some camps specialize in certain areas such as horse riding, mountain climbing, sports, crafts etc, whilst others offer a wide variety of activities.

Do you want to take part in team sports or more singular activities such as tennis? Do you want the whole camp to revolve around water sports or would you prefer something more sedate such as craft activities or performing arts? Do you need to learn a particular skill from scratch or are you more advanced? Check the skill levels of each camp to make sure it meets your skill needs.

One for the parents – check it out first:

Once you choose a camp make sure it is everything you expect it to be.

• Can you get references from people who have used it before?
• How long has it been in operation?
• What are the goals of the camp?
• How many staff are on duty to how many children?
• What are the qualifications of the staff?
• What staff training is provided?
• What is the food like?
• What are the sleeping arrangements?
• What toilet and shower facilities are available?
• What facilities are available for contact with home (phone, letter etc)?
• What provisions are there for bad weather?
• What insurance coverage is there?
• What items can your child take with them?

• Can the camp meet special needs requirements i.e. diet, accessibility, supervision etc?

• What provisions do they have for medical emergencies?

Fun for everyone

Camp Activities

As we have mentioned there are many camps offering many different activities, these include the following examples, although there are many more.

Team Sports: Hockey, basketball, baseball, martial arts, football, volleyball etc.

Individual Sports: Golf, biking, skateboarding, archery, go-karts, track and field, horse riding etc.

Water Sports: Canoeing, diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, swimming, sailing, kayaking, water-skiing, rafting etc.

Adventure: Rock climbing, orienteering, mountaineering, dog sledding, backpacking, bungee jumping, hiking, biking, driving range, wilderness camps etc.

Performing Arts: Acting, writing, costuming, dance, music, circus arts, makeup etc

Creative Arts: Drawing, crafts, painting, photography, cooking, stained glass, sculpture, woodwork, sewing, ceramics etc.

Academics: reading, languages, journalism, computing, science etc.

Other: This can include any number of activities such as gardening, archaeology, astronomy, farming, geology, marine biology etc.

Basically if you can think of a subject, you will more than likely find a camp to fit.

Overseas Camps

Although most children choose to attend camps in Canada there are options to choose camps overseas or in North America. There may be age restrictions for this type of camp, but you might find yourself in China, Mexico, United States or any other location in the world. Obviously the cost of these camps are much higher than Canadian camps so this must be taken into consideration when choosing a foreign camp.

Special Needs

Just because you have a special need doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. There are lots of camps that can accommodate children with special needs and many more who specialize in such needs. It doesn’t matter if you have a chronic illness, a disability or any other physical or mental limitation there will be a camp suitable for you.

Some camps specialize in providing activities for the deaf, blind or wheelchair bound children. They still offer all the major activities such as canoeing, swimming, gymnastics, performing arts etc. They of course also offer specially trained staff and 24 hour medical facilities and specialist equipment.

Some other camps specialize in helping people with learning difficulties such as dyslexia, so there really is no need to feel left out whatever your needs and requirements.

Resources

There are a number of ways to find out about summer camps including:

Internet: Lots of websites are available these days giving lots of information about summer camps. Some are search sites in which you can find different camps in different provinces. Others are the websites of the actual camps giving you full details of their activities, costs etc.

Some useful search sites include:

www.campsearch.com

www.camppage.com

www.mysummercamps.com/

www.allensguide.com/Canada/

www.kidscamps.com

www.campresource.com

Specific website include: www.actua.ca – science, technology and engineering camps www.ccamping.org - Canadian Camping Association www.kidsofcanada.com – Kids of Canada summer camps, www.ccca.org – Christian Camp and Conference Association www.campkirk.com – Ontario camp for children with learning disabilities.

Camp Fairs: There are a number of camp fairs held all over Canada. They are held in large halls and lots of different camp organizers attend so you can visit with your parents to see which might be the best one for you. You will be able to pick up lots of advice and information and can sign up there and then or take away leaflets, brochures and quite often gifts so you can decide later.

Summary

Summer camps are a great way to get away and experience exciting new activities or expand on the ones you already enjoy. They also give you a chance to do things without your parents being around (parents also get a break from you!)

If you think it all sounds like great fun, you are right. Check out the weblinks we have provided and see what is on offer in your location. Camps are an excellent way to meet new people and make new friends, especially if you are new to the area, or indeed Canada.

Just because summer seems a long way off, it is never too early to start researching available camps. Remember, places fill up fast so early bookings are essential.

In case you are wondering there are also winter camps available which usually include winter sports and activities. The duration of these camps is not usually as long because the winter holidays are not as long as the summer ones. But you still get to have great fun and lots of adventures whether you choose a summer or winter camp.

158,000 British Pensioners living in Canada have their British pensions frozen without any cost of living increases.  Meanwhile, pensioners living in the United States, Israel, Philippines, Slovenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, any European Union country, as well as many more, receive annual cost-of-living increases the same as the increases they get if they lived in the UK.

The UK is the only western nation which denies parity to all state pensioners regardless of where they live. The Canada Pension Plan (CPP), for example, gives annual increases to pensioners no matter where its pensioners choose to live in Canada or not.

With rising costs of living, this situation has put many pensioners in an extremely difficult financial state.

John Markham, a British Pensioner living in Ottawa and spokesperson for the International Consortium of British Pensioners, said, “David Cameron has pledged to make pensions fair for all and we applaud that goal. When all British pensioners, no matter where they live, including these brave veterans, win the right to have their pensions raised annually like everyone else we will know he has been true to his word.”

British veterans living in Canada ready to hand medals back

Many British veterans living in Canada and other Commonwealth nations are so outraged at their abandonment by the British government that they are prepared to hand back their medals.

“After 50 years of injustice it has come to the stage where men and women who fought for this country feel so abandoned that they would renounce their hard won war medals,” said Markham.

“Cashing a pension check that is the same amount as the first one received in 1989 Twenty-four years ago won’t buy the turkey this year in Canada,” said Alan May, veteran of the British Merchant Navy now living in British Columbia.

May came to Canada to join his two sons and five grandchildren in his declining years. He never imagined that his pension would be frozen. “Four years I spent dodging torpedoes for King and Commonwealth and there is no good reason why they refuse to index our pensions like those in other countries around the world,” May said.

The UK State Pension is similar to the CPP where the value of each pension reflects the number of years of contributions paid. There are currently 12-million UK state pensioners, all of whom contributed similarly to the UK state pension via compulsory National Insurance Contributions.  Approximately one-million of these live outside the UK.

About the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners and the International Consortium

The Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners (CABP) is a not for profit organization  with over 11,000 members, dedicated to securing annual cost-of-living increases for all recipients of the UK State Pension, regardless of where they choose to live in retirement.

The Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners, in association with other similar pensioner organizations in Commonwealth countries has formed the International Consortium of British Pensioners (ICBP) to fight this inequity.

Kingston is situated on the southern terminus of the Rideau Canal, the oldest continuously established canal in North America. It is also on the watery intersection of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River and the Cataraqui River. This advantageous geographical point has been pivotal to the city’s development, bringing trade, governing importance, immigrants and eventually much tourism to the area. Geography is also responsible for Kingston’s knowledge centric reputation and today’s popular outdoor pursuits, making it much more than a small, sleepy city.

Kingston Ontario

Originally an aboriginal settlement known as Cataraqui (translated as ‘rocks standing in water’), the site of present-day Kingston was recognized by the governor of New France, Louis de Buade as an exceptional location for a fort and fur trading post. Thus in 1673, Fort Frontenac came into fruition. Under French control for 85 years, the fort was defeated and occupied by the British during the Seven Year’s War (the fight for domination of America between the British and the French). British Loyalist settlement followed. The community was given the name King’s Town after George III, which soon shortened to Kingston.

In 1838, Kingston became an official town, with Thomas Kirkpatrick as mayor, and John A. MacDonald as alderman, the latter who subsequently became the prime minister of Canada. The town later became the pride of the nation when it was declared the capital city of the United Provinces of Canada (what was then Upper and Lower Canada) in 1841. It held this title for three years.

It was at this time that limestone from local quarries was used as the main building component for businesses and homes. Much of this distinguished architecture remains today, including the graceful City Hall in the downtown core. Hence Kingston has taken on the alias of ‘the Limestone City’.

It was also during the mid 1800s that the Church of Scotland selected Kingston as the Canadian location for a school. Its purpose was to prepare clergy members for service, as well as enlighten others in the subjects of science and literature. What started as a simple facility with one professor and a few students has evolved into the world-renowned Queen’s University. Thus began the surge of knowledge in Kingston, and brought about the arrival of other institutions such as the Royal Military College of Canada, St. Lawrence College, and the Canadian Armed Forces School of Communications and Electronics. Naturally this has promoted Kingston as a centre for knowledge-based industry. Several predominant names in health sciences, environmental services and products as well as information technology and telecommunications have research and development facilities in Kingston.

The climate

Because of its proximity to Lake Ontario, Kingston enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year. Summer temperatures average around 24°C (75°F), with winters normally –8°C (17°F). Visitors may prefer the more seasonable seasons of late spring, summer and early fall, as water activities are accessible at that time.

Transportation

Situated midway of two major Canadian metropolises (Toronto and Montreal), Kingston is accessible by most modes of transportation. Kingston’s airport, Norman Rogers has daily scheduled flights from Kingston to Toronto. Twenty VIA Rail trains make a stop in Kingston per day, and one can ride the rails to various destinations in Ontario, Western Canada and the Maritimes. Motorcoach transportation is offered by Greyhound and Voyageur. For those choosing automobile transportation, the roads are maneuverable and parking is available in most areas.

Once in Kingston, Kingston Transit offers an easy-to-use public bus system. Visitors can take advantage of a special pass that allows all day travel as well as entrance to several of the city’s museums.

Of course, boat travel is also an option. Private craft are permitted down the Rideau Canal and can start or end at one of Kingston’s marinas. Many tour operators provide boat services, which visit the Thousand Islands area. The canal is usually open from late May until mid October. The scenic splendor of this mode of transportation makes it a good choice for those visiting Kingston via Ottawa or Quebec. A ferry to Wolfe Island, an inhabited island in the centre of the Thousand Islands, runs regularly throughout the year, and during May until mid October, guests can proceed from there to Cape Vincent, New York by Horne’s Ferry.

Some of Kingston’s Featured Attractions

Museums and Historic Sites
The diversity of Kingston’s numerous attractions is great. For those interested in history, Kingston has 17 museums and several more historic locales. Of merit is Fort Henry, which offers military pageantry and precision at its finest. This designated National Historic Site was originally built to fend off the Americans in the War of 1812, but never saw military action. From 1837- 38 the fort was used as a prison for dissenters of the Rebellions. The fort served mainly as a garrison for British and then Canadian troops until 1890. Today visitors can witness 19th Century military life, from where the officers dined to where a soldier would lay his head to rest. The ‘Sunset Ceremonies’ of the celebrated Fort Henry Guard are performed in July and August. Noise levels hit a high with the blasts of canons, gunshots and the music of fife and drum. To cap off the sound extravaganza, fireworks bang into the night sky to end the ritual.

Another historical stop in Kingston is Bellevue House. Aside from the noticeably different architecture of the period, this home was the short time residence of John A. MacDonald.

If time is a factor, an efficient yet enjoyable way to see the city is by a historic one-hour tour aboard the Confederation Tour Trolley. The tour takes visitors to various points of interest including Queen’s University and several of the solid limestone structures as Bellevue House. Several trip times are available from mid May until early October.

Perhaps a more grim attraction yet of much curiosity is the teeth-gritting Corrections Canada Museum, also known as the Kingston Penitentiary Museum. Kingston is home to the first penitentiary in Canada, established in 1835 and continues to run a maximum-security prison. The museum chronicles early prison life, when punishment was often brutish and rehabilitation non-existent. The small museum is located in the former warden’s home, which was built with convict sweat from 1870 to 1873. Some of the displays include rather horrific devises used for punishment, items used by the prisoners for smuggling, and models of cells used in 1906 as compared to a cell today. Visitors of both brave and timid hearts will discover the realities of everyday prison life at this location.

Outdoor Pursuits
Kingston is quickly becoming known as the fresh water sailing capital of the world. Those who wish to ripple the waters of the famed Rideau Canal with its array of scenery will not be disappointed. Whether it is by private craft, or by renting a houseboat, cruiser, kayak or canoe, the exploration of these waterways will bring out the sailor in the most adamant landlubber. Or one may join the many each season that cruise to the Thousand Islands, the over 1800 small islands that lay between the Canadian and US border, in a glass-topped catamaran, cruise boat, or paddle-wheel riverboat.

Observers of water sports may revel in the excitement of the Kingston Dragon Boat Festival in September.

An activity that is beginning to become popular in the Kingston area is shipwreck diving. Because of the coolness of the waters, several wrecks dating as far back as the mid 1800’s can be visited in waters reaching approximately 22 – 110 ft. in depth. Also among the deep water goods are machinery, bottles, anchors and what is presumed to be cannonballs from the War of 1812. Several of Kingston’s dive operators can assist to make the dives an interesting success.

Events
Kingston also offers a plethora of summer festivals and events. A favorite of ‘Blues Brother’ Dan Aykroyd is the Limestone City Blues Festival in August. Some of the best blues and jazz music around can be heard at more than 15 venues in downtown Kingston. For die-hard jazz fans, or for those wishing to experience the doleful sound that has influenced countless musical genres, this three-day event is a must.

Another fun-filled event in the month of July is the Kingston Buskers Rendezvous. One of the top street performers festivals in Canada, this festival is visited by entertainers from around the globe. A variety of novel performances can be viewed in downtown Kingston, with a sampling staged as the grand finale at Confederation Park.

Visit the official Kingston City Website

Read more about Kingston here

Cultural Differences

Canada is a vibrant and diverse country. Canadians are proud of their multicultural society.

Moving and adapting to new country, however, may be a very different and difficult experience for some newcomers. It is not uncommon to feel the following emotions:

• Uncomfortable
• Helpless
• Frustrated
• Frightened
• Insecure
• Unsure how to behave
• That your cultural beliefs and values are being challenged
• That things are not predictable

It is normal for people moving to a new country to experience stress during their first few months.

• Your first twelve months in Canada will be emotional and full of change. There will be many things to learn.
• You will face many challenges.
  • You may have to learn English/French or improve your language skills.
  • You may need more education or training.
  • You may have to take a first job or home that is less than you expected.
• There may be many differences between your old life and your new one.

Your feelings are normal. Every newcomer will experience them to various degrees.

Your family’s move to Canada may be more difficult than yours, particularly if they feel they had little control over the decision to move. They will probably experience the same feelings of discomfort, helplessness, and frustration as they adjust to living here. However, in some cases these feelings may be stronger.

For some children, any change can be traumatic; a move to a new country and culture even more so. Your children may be sad or angry about having to leave their school and friends. Your husband or wife may feel very lonely for friends and relatives. It is important to allow your family to communicate how they feel about living in their new home.

The Four Stages of Adapting to a New Country

The four stages of adapting to life in a new country are as follows:

Stage 1: Euphoria period – fascination period

Just before or shortly after arriving in Canada you may:

• Have high hopes and expectations;
• Feel this is a very exciting time;
• Feel everything is new and interesting;
• Feel very confident and can easily cope with problems and stress; and
• Tend to focus on similarities between your own culture and country.

Stage 2: Disenchantment – frustration or irritation and hostility

During the first six months you may:

• Have good and bad experiences;
• Feel very happy about the challenges you have overcome;
• Feel very frustrated, confused, and disappointed;
• Feel depressed about the difficulties you are experiencing;
• Feel very positive one day and very negative the next;
• Focus on the differences between yourself and Canadians;
• Miss your family and feel no connection to Canada;
• Have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning;
• Have difficulty sleeping;
• Have difficulty going to work or looking for work;
• Develop problems with your partner and children;
• Feel indifferent and want to withdraw from normal activities;
• Lose your appetite;
• Feel loneliness for your country and loved ones; and
• Feel guilty about leaving family members behind.

Stage 3: Gradual adjustment – or recovery

During this stage of your adjustment:

• You start to feel in better control of your life as you gain a better understanding of Canada and Canadians;
• You feel more confident in your language skills;
• You gradually get involved in the community;
• Your sense of humour returns;
• You have a better understanding of how to adapt to life in Canada; and
• You have a better sense of what to do to get what you want.

Stage 4: Acceptance – adjustment or acculturation

During this stage of your adjustment:

• You feel more comfortable in your new culture;
• You may have made some friends;
• You get more involved;
• You understand the new system better;
• You no longer regret having come to Canada;
• You may be studying, planning to return to school, or working at better jobs; and
• You generally feel content.

Ways to Integrate

Here are some ways you can integrate yourself into Canadian society:

• Get to know Canada, its people and places. Learn and discover as much as you can about the culture of your new community. Remain open to new ideas and experiences without compromising your own beliefs and attitudes.
• When in doubt, ask questions. Talk to Canadians about their country. Talk to other newcomers about their experiences in Canada.
• Use the support services available to you. It is important to discuss your feelings. Do not be embarrassed about seeking help. With timely and caring advice, you may be able to adjust more easily, and to enjoy life in Canada.

Learning How to Adapt/Adjust to a New Culture

• Do not expect too much from yourself. Settlement in a new country is a significant process. It is normal for every person living in a new culture (of every age, gender, or race) to experience stress.
• Understand that being aware of cultural differences is part of the process of adjusting to your new cultural environment.
• Explore and appreciate cultural differences. This can help you avoid misunderstandings, develop friendships more easily, and feel more comfortable.
• Remember that adjusting to a new culture takes time.
• Exercise regularly and get enough sleep to keep your energy levels high.
• Stay in touch with friends and family to avoid feeling isolated.
• Involve yourself in the community as a volunteer – this is a good way to meet people and to practice your English/French.
• Enroll in an English or French language class.
• Explore subjects that interest you (music, dance, art, learning a language, etc.).
• Think about your own culture and how it influences your attitudes and actions.
• Recognize the need to grieve losses. This may provide reassurance to those who are experiencing emotional distress.
• Find out about the help offered by Canadian settlement agencies.

Be sure to talk to your family about changes that will take place so they too can prepare themselves for the process of integrating into Canada.

Although adapting to a new country is difficult, remember that you and your family are not alone. Others have gone through this process and have successfully adjusted to living in Canada.

Even nine years after he came to Canada, Ram is still haunted by the memories of the fighting in Sri Lanka.

“There was terrible fighting,” he recalls. “One of my brothers got killed from the war.”

Many other relatives have also lost their lives in the conflict.

“They are still suffering, some of them,” he related.

Leaving the City of Jaffna to come to Canada as a refugee in 2001 in search of a better life, Ram has found it here in eastern Ontario in the Town of Smiths Falls.

He moved to the community of approximately 8,800 people, which is located less than an hour from Ottawa, the nation’s capital, in May after living initially with an uncle and other relatives in Toronto.

The 31-year-old says he was attracted to Canada after doing some research on the country, from its history to political system to job opportunities to “how they (Canadians) respect new immigrants.”

Being impressed with what he read, Ram decided this was a country in which he would like to live and he has not regretted his decision to move here.

Upon his arrival in Canada, Ram enrolled in ESL (English as a Second Language) classes and went back to school to complete the credits needed to obtain his Grade 12 diploma.

In addition, he decided to contribute to his new country by doing some volunteer work. He was a volunteer at World Youth Day 2002. This celebration of faith was started by Pope John Paul II with the 10th event in Toronto attracting an estimated 400,000 to 500,000 youth from around the world.

Having long had a love of cooking, Ram has been able to turn that passion into work here in Canada. While his first job in the restaurant business was as a part-time dishwasher, over time he exchanged this role in the kitchen for preparing finger food. Eventually, he “jumped into the real cooking” like pasta and other dishes. During his time in Toronto, he had the opportunity to work in restaurants serving Greek, Thai, Italian and Mexican food.

“When I cook, I have a good feeling,” he says. “I am so happy when somebody eats my food. It is 100 per cent satisfaction for me.”

And now Ram derives satisfaction from tempting the palates of Smiths Falls and area residents with his international cuisine.

He first visited the town with a friend in January 2010. During their one week stay, they were so impressed with what they saw and with the support they received afterwards from municipal staff in starting up a business that he moved here in May to become the manager of the new Chuckles Jack restaurant. At the restaurant, Ram has been able to put his culinary talents in international cuisine to work with Italian, Greek, Indian, Sri Lankan, Thai, Mexican and French dishes all being on the menu.

While Ram has only lived in Smiths Falls six months, he already considers it his home.

“I enjoy it here,” he says in praise of the town. “It is a very quiet place. The people are very friendly.”

One of the things Ram likes about Smiths Falls is its natural beauty, from the many trees that line the streets and surrounding area to the historic Rideau Canal, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ontario.

Ram is also pleased with the services available to immigrants in Smiths Falls and how people in the town make newcomers feel welcome. So much so that he would recommend the community to other immigrants to Canada and plans to apply to Citizenship and Immigration Canada to sponsor his parents to immigrate here from Sri Lanka.

Anyone interested in learning more about Smiths Falls and what the town has to offer newcomers is encouraged to visit the website www.immigratetosmithsfalls.ca.

During the latter half of 2010 alone, six feature films and 14 TV shows were shot, or set to shoot, in BC, including “This Means War” with Reese Witherspoon, the Amanda Seyfried feature “Red Riding Hood” and small-screen sci-fi favourites “Fringe,” “Psych” and “Supernatural.” In 2009, the province played host to 239 productions. What does it all mean? There’s enough cinematic action here to make BC the third-largest film production centre in North America.

Why BC? As they say, it’s location, location, location.

Christine Kilpatrick, a Vancouver, BC-area freelance journalist and film fan, runs On Location Tours Vancouver, escorting visitors to movie and TV locations around town. She explains why producers keep coming back: “Vancouver has always been a really great place to film because we have everything a production company could want. We have eight studio facilities, encompassing almost a million square feet of purpose-built stages, 30,000 experienced professional cast and crew members and numerous film- school programs. And we have the geography: everything from farmers’ fields to rivers, mountains, glaciers, craggy canyons, cityscapes, small villages—Steveston and Ladner are especially popular for small-town looks—as well as ultra-modern structures and older areas like Gastown.”

Check out, for example, the Marine Building at the foot of Burrard Street in downtown Vancouver. A gorgeous example of Art Deco architecture, this 1930s skyscraper makes a perfect Daily Planet set for “Smallville,” a show about Superman’s early life that was filmed for 10 seasons in Vancouver. Spin through the revolving doors à la Clark Kent for a look at the zodiac mosaics and gleaming brass elevator doors, or dine like a superhero at the Imperial, a glamorous Chinese restaurant in the lobby.

While you’re in town, stroll through the Vancouver Public Library, and try matching the facade to any of dozens of sci-fi flicks filmed here. This structure has played museums, cityscapes and evil corporate headquarters in everything from “Mr. Magoo”to “Battlestar Galactica.”

It’s not just Vancouver. A short drive north along the famously scenic Sea to Sky Highway leads to the recently refurbished Britannia Mine Museum, where you can ride an underground mine train and visit the 26-storey Mill building (a National Historic Site)—both used in more than 50 films and dozens of TV shows, from “Scooby Doo 2”to “The Outer Limits”and“The X-Files.”  While there, you can pan for real gold and explore the theatre, exhibits and mineral gallery in the new Beaty-Lundin Visitor Centre.

Just a few kilometres north is Squamish, where the ocean and mountain setting was just right for the fictional Elmo, Alaska, (USA), in the Anne Heche dramedy “Men in Trees.” The difference? The real Squamish is a lot more fun. The area’s legendary rock climbing, hiking, biking, windsurfing, golf and scuba options—plus the microbrews at Howe Sound Brewing Company —have made it one of Canada’s top outdoor destinations.

Finish this cinematic road trip with dinner at Whistler’s Araxi, a top-rated eatery featured as part of the prize going to the winner of the reality-cooking-drama “Hell’s Kitchen.” Also here? The slopes, scenery and celebration plaza caught on camera during the 2010 Winter Games.

Further inland, the grasslands, hoodoos and sandstone canyons around Ashcroft and Cache Creek, in BC’s Thompson Okanagan region, set the stage for everything from Yellowstone National Park to a Tibetan village in the apocalyptic blockbuster “2012.” Camp riverside at Juniper Beach Provincial Park or stay in a traditional First Nations kekuli shelter at the Historic Hat Creek Ranch; odds are the earth will not disappear under your feet.

And when Hollywood needs the Himalayas? BC’s Rocky Mountains have so far played the roof of the world in“K2”and“Kundun.” The Coast Mountains’ endless tracts of alpine backcountry—some stretches bigger than the Swiss Alps—are great for filming and even better for heli-skiing. Bella Coola Heli Sports can get you there.

Vancouver Island is also rich with film sets. Hatley Park National Historic Site near Victoria, for example, has played, among other things, Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the “X-Men” movies and Lex Luthor’s mansion in “Smallville.”Not a dastardly villain or gifted mutant? No problem. You can still tour the century-old ivy-draped Hatley Castle—one of Canada’s best-preserved Edwardian estates—and wander year-round through the Italian, rose and Japanese gardens on the seaside grounds.

Twi-hards? Follow the “New Moon” crew to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve near Tofino on Vancouver Island’s west coast. The shore’s pounding surf, moody rainforest and miles of driftwood-strewn beach are seriously romantic, with or without vampires.

Kilpatrick’s On Location Tours Vancouver covers most of the key Lower Mainland twi-sites. Stops on the six-hour tour include Capilano River Regional Park in North Vancouver, including the very log where vampire Edward (played by heartthrob Robert Pattinson) breaks up with Kristen Stewart’s mortal Bella character.

Says Kilpatrick: “That’s what excites guests the most; knowing they are standing right where the stars stood in a favourite scene. A lot of fans have read the book six or seven times and have seen the films as many times.”

Capilano River Regional Park is, she reveals, “a well-used woods in the film industry.
It’s accessible, but you can’t see any development from there. Sometimes while we’re there we’ll see other filming going on: independent movies, music videos and TV commercials—you name it.” The park appeals to hikers for the same reason: it offers a chance to explore pristine rainforest just minutes from downtown.

The tour also includes a stop at Jacob’s house in Coquitlam (a suburb east of Vancouver; he’s the cute werewolf played by Taylor Lautner). “While we’re there, we stop at Minnekhada Lodge (a 1934 hunting lodge) in Minnekhada Park; chances are we’ll see black bears in the blueberry fields. For so many fans, seeing a bear in the wild is a real highlight of their trip.”

Even non-Twihards find it’s a pretty cool way to see the city. Says Kilpatrick: “My tours are off the beaten track; they get people out of the downtown core to places visitors would never normally see.”

And, psst, don’t look now, but isn’t that..? For star gazing, Kilpatrick recommendsYaletown, Vancouver’s chic, revitalized warehouse district. “Celebrities love Yaletown. Say, Cioppino’s—Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire have been spotted there. The “Twilight” cast enjoys Rodney’s Oyster House, and Blue Water Café + Raw Bar is always a celebrity hot spot. Raincity Grill in the West End is also popular; Lady Gaga was seen there recently. She was very dressed down, but still with the sky-high heels.”

Article courtesy of the Canadian Tourism Commission Media Centre:

Writers Bio: Award-winning travel writer Sue Kernaghan has covered Africa, Europe and Asia, but her first love is British Columbia. For more than 10 years she’s explored it in-depth, writing features for magazines, newspapers and websites. She’s also contributed to a number of guidebooks, including Fodor’s,Northwest Best Places and Best Places to Kiss. A fourth-generation British Columbian, she’s originally from Vancouver and now lives on Salt Spring Island, BC.

Traditionally, a Scots-Irish settlement in the Heart of the Ottawa valley, Smiths Falls comes alive during the winter season. The first falling snow, the crisp night air, and a bustling rural community, Smiths Falls showcases the traditions of their rural ancestors and offers a welcoming sense of togetherness for all.

Strolling along the tranquility of the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO world heritage waterway, residents and visitors can cast their gaze upon the striking landscape of the evening sky. A local astronomy club offers an opportunity for that up close glimpse of each falling star.  As you wander across Town you see soft lights through shop windows, street lamps, and trees, captivating the imagination of the young and old everywhere you look.

A Town of athletic pride, hockey, skating and curling are a yearly tradition.  Stepping inside our state of the art Memorial Community Centre arena, you immediately become engaged in cheers for the home team. But, not to be missed is the annual tradition of strapping on skates at our outdoor ice surface.  Beautifully located in the Downtown corridor everyone is welcome to get active and have fun as some of our earliest settlers would have done, skating, over 200 years ago. Taking off their skates, many head further downtown for a hot cup of chocolate and soak up the atmosphere of great neighbours by a warm indoor fireplace.

The Ottawa Valley is also known as a fantastic location to try your first snowmobile adventure.  Smiths Falls is the starting point for several trail systems throughout the rural area and offers a great meeting place for discovering the tranquil Ontario wilderness. Just a step away from the Downtown core of Sensational Smiths Falls snowmobilers, cross country skiers and trail hikers can follow local wildlife at play.

Outdoor activities are a mainstay to a small community throughout the winter months and but Smiths Falls also celebrates the season with unique events to warm up the spirit. The annual winter carnival offers an excellent opportunity for new residents and visitors to engage with traditional and fun-filled activities for a true Canadian winter experience. Friendly competitions, culinary cook-offs, prizes and more, showcase an event full of smiles and laughter.

Stores are busy from shop to shop as residents stop in for the latest buy and a quick chat with their friendly neighbours. A Town of rich history, the Heritage House Museum remains open all-year round and offers visitors a chance to warm up by an 1860’s bake oven and discover the Town’s history, new events and exhibits for all ages.

With many days of cold weather outside, warming up is easy in our Sensational winter Town.

Visit the Smiths Falls website