When I caught up with her on the seawall in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, young fans surrounded her. (Like them, I got to try on her gold medal!) You might also see her hiking or biking near Squamish. Come winter, though, when the fresh powder beckons, there’s nowhere to go but up.

When did your dream to be in the Winter Olympics begin?

It began before I even knew I wanted to be a winter sport athlete. I just wanted to be the best in the world at any sport. It was a dream to stand on the podium at an Olympic games.

What are some of your best memories snowboarding at Whistler?
I love the big powder days when you can ride peak to creek at Whistler all day until your legs are screaming at you to stop, and then go for a big Après Ski burger at Roland’s Pub in Whistler Creekside.

What are some of your favourite small mountain ski towns in Canada?
Squamish, Whistler, Rossland, Kimberley, Powder King and Tofino. I also love going into the backcountry for splitboarding (a snowboard that splits in half for cross-country ski touring and goes back together for snowboarding). It’s nice to get away from cities and ride some untracked lines.

What places in Canada mean the most to you?
I love going to the parks. British Columbia has so many to explore and camping was a huge family activity in the summers. There are so many just out my back door here in Squamish. Garibaldi Park has great hiking in the summer and touring in the winter, but even the mountain biking in Alice Lake Provincial Park just behind my house is amazing. I also love going to the Rockies and to Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island for road trips.

What do you for fun in your neighbourhood?
I like being outside biking, hiking, climbing and surfing … that can all be done around Squamish or Tofino. It’s fun to go to a breakfast joint on a rainy day and play a little Scrabble as well.

What place in Canada would you love to see? Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. I have never been to the East Coast. I travel the world but I have yet to explore all of Canada. My Mom has been there and has some amazing photographs…. looks beautiful and the people are apparently very friendly.

Whatsecret spot is most overlooked in your area?
Every town, city, park has more than meets the eye. In Squamish alone there is an amazing trail network that goes for miles, dozens of lakes to swim in and hundreds of cliffs to climb.

Article courtesy of the Canadian Tourism Commission Media Centre

Tourism British Columbia

Atop the playlist for her daughter was something that wasn’t around when Nia was a kid: the brand new, free Assiniboine Park Children’s Garden and Nature Playground with pirate-style crow’s nest, willow tree tunnels, swings, net bridges and kid-sized mazes.

The also-free summer Ballet in the Park was another favourite, as was downtown’s Forks for the Children’s Museum and “all the little things to see” – shops, food kiosks, the Riverwalk and outdoor performance stage.

She missed out this time round on a Salisbury House Mr. Big Nip (a hamburger for non-‘Peggers) and fries, even though there’s a Sals – a classic Winnipeg-only burger chain –parked midpoint on the Fork’s adjacent Esplanade Riel, the city’s signature pedestrian bridge between Winnipeg and the Francophone suburb of St. Boniface. It’s right next door to the new Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which is under construction and on target for opening in 2013.

But she found time to hit other traditional spots. “My favourite spots in terms of restaurants are family-owned: Bellamys (owned by sister Nancy and brother-in-law Dimos), Carlos and Murphy’s (in Osborne Village), and Kelekis’s (in the city’s ethnic catch-all North End) for the classic hot dog. And Pony Corral.”

Corydon Avenue’s Italian strip has gelato at Eva’s (Vardalos recommends the dulce de leche) and Nucci’s. Strolling the strip “you see everyone you’ve ever met and known, and it’s safe and fun. It’s like being in Europe for a night,” she adds.

Winnipeg’s always been loaded with culture, notes Vardalos. “I grew up with so much theatre, the ballet and music, and that tradition is being upheld now with the Winnipeg Fringe” theatre festival.

Article courtesy of the Canadian Tourism Commission Media Centre

For more visit Travel Manitoba

Within a week of Gaga’s anointment, the YouTube video had shot to 25 million views and is still going strong.

Winnipeg’s Hot 103 brought her into the radio station studio and arranged for Lady Gaga to talk to her, which was emotional for both parties. Gaga was so impressed and touched by Maria that she invited her to perform the song “Born this Way” on stage with her at a concert in Toronto.

Maria explained: “I met a lot of people before, but Lady Gaga is the reason why I am here because if she hadn’t seen my video, I wouldn’t be doing this interview. And when I first got to talk to her, I cried because she had time to talk to me, and she even wanted me to sing with her at a concert. I was just very overwhelmed; I was just so star-struck.” Maria has also appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and has since been invited to countless interviews, performances and media outlets all around the world.

Maria’s success is particularly inspiring because of her family’s story. Maria’s mother and father emigrated from the Philippines to Winnipeg in 1997 with two older sisters and a brother in search of a better environment for their kids. Although the Aragons didn’t speak that much English at first, through a combination of work, school and with the help of family already settled in Winnipeg, they became well integrated in their neighbourhood.

Although she liked the Philippines, Maria’s sister Rojuane says that she could probably never move back. Canada is what she considers home. “My parents would love to go back,” she said. “I know that for sure, because my mom’s side of the family is all still in the Philippines.”

Maria is the only one of four children who was born in Canada. When asked what she considers her identity, she states, “Well, I’m Canadian because I was born here. But I was raised by Filipino parents, so I guess I’m both.”

She loves Winnipeg but also knows that being Filipino is a huge part of who she is. She has a lot of fans from the Philippines and from Asia at large, which she says can be both exciting and a little strange. Many of them follow her on Facebook and have set up numerous fan pages dedicated to her.

Maria has even had the opportunity to sing with Prime Minister Stephen Harper during his campaign tour during the last federal election. She reflected candidly, “Well, it was an honour because, of course, he’s the Prime Minister, he’s like the boss of everybody! It was fun because I didn’t know he could play the piano so well!”

Maria also took part in the annual Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill, performing in front of the large crowd which featured William and Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as part of their 2011 tour of Canada.

When asked what made singing important to her, Maria says, “Everyone is good at something, whether it is art or singing or dancing, but I think singing is special because it’s the talent that I have and it’s special, especially now because it’s the reason why I get to go see Lady Gaga and be on the Ellen (DeGeneres) Show … It’s the talent that God gave me so I’m really grateful for it.”

For more videos of Maria, check out her YouTube channel.

In 2004, and long before his children were born, Charles thought it wise to begin the lengthy process of sponsoring his parents to Canada. He is a Canadian citizen, makes enough money to qualify as a sponsor, and thought it a good idea for his parents to apply for the right to live in Canada with their son, daughter-in-law and, hopefully, with any future grandchildren.

His parents were here three years ago to witness the birth of their first grandchild, Daniel and again last year for the birth of their second grandchild, Michelle. Naturally, these trips were extremely memorable and allowed the children an opportunity to know their grandparents and to bond with them. His parents always looked forward to spending time with their loving grandchildren.

In February, the Canadian embassy asked the couple to repeat the medical examinations they had underwent in 2009 which had since expired. After a long seven-year wait, it finally looked like the processing of the application was about to be completed.

When Charles’ mom was being examined, she advised the immigration doctor that she was taking pills prescribed by her doctor for a heart condition. The immigration doctor ordered a follow-up medical with a local cardiologist. In June, the couple received a letter from the Canadian embassy saying that Charles’ mom has a mitral valve disease and that it was reasonable to conclude that this condition will continue to progress and deteriorate requiring ongoing management by specialists in cardiology and cardiovascular surgery. They were given two months to provide further documentation which might lead immigration authorities to reconsider their finding that Charles’ mom was medically inadmissible to Canada.

In spite of the further medical information the family submitted to the embassy in response to this letter, the application for permanent residence was formally rejected in July. Given the fact that Charles’ mom never suffered a heart attack nor was ever hospitalized for this condition, this refusal came as a profound disappointment to the family. But what was really unexpected was the following passage which was contained in the refusal letter:

“This inadmissibility may also extend to any stay in Canada as a visitor … [and you] should therefore not attempt to enter Canada without seeking advice from a Canadian visa office”.

Charles felt shocked and betrayed by the prospect that his mom would not be allowed to even visit Canada anymore. He and his parents did everything right. They applied from abroad, waited patiently for seven years, told the truth, and now they are in a far worse position than when they started. He was upset that his mom wasn’t even offered the opportunity to undergo any surgery or treatment abroad that might be needed to address any medical concerns as a precondition to the granting of permanent residence.

His parents visited often, always with health insurance, and never overstayed. Now his mom may not be able to spend her vacations visiting the grandchildren which she has become so attached to. Her confidence is shaken and Charles is worried that his mother is too afraid to hear what immigration officials might tell her at the Canadian embassy.

What was supposed to be a plan of family reunification has now turned into a potential nightmare for this family. This outcome was not at all anticipated.

Writers Bio: Guidy Mamann, J.D. practices law in Toronto at Mamann Sandaluk and is certified by the Law Society of Upper Canada as an immigration specialist.

Her background is in the hospitality industry where she spent 30 years in public relations and sales. She has also served on council since October 2004 leading to her first term as Mayor.

Karen has been married for 22 years to Carsten and they have three sons. Bjerre is 26 and lives in California with his wife and children. Her other sons Eric (19) and  Connor (16) live in Banff.

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

Q: What vehicle do you drive and what was the first car you ever owned?

A: In Banff, it’s easy to get around the summer months by cruiser bike and I have my road bike for play. And I only live a few blocks from both my office and Town Hall, so I get to walk to work. Plus we have a fabulous all-hybrid transit system. However, my first car was a Chevette.

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

A:  I have a tattoo of a dolphin on my back.

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Modesty, sense of humour.

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

A: Banff, on holiday with my parents. I visited here and immediately wanted to move here. So when I could, I did. A road trip with three young boys and a husband is always memorable too.

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

A: Banff, Alberta. Who wouldn’t?

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

A: I ride my road bike on the new Legacy Trail – connecting Canmore (at the east gate) to Bow Valley Parkway, and eventually to Jasper. I don’t know if I’ll make it to Jasper. I also like to hike and my favorite trail is right here in Banff (naturally) on Tunnel Mountain. It’s a great view of the Town of Banff and I get a thrill every time I see it.

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: Read. I have been known to indulge in a glass of wine now and then after a particularly long meeting.

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

A: We opened our newest community facility a month after I took office – The Fenlands recreation centre– it’s beautiful inside and out and I’m very proud of it. But honestly, being Mayor of Banff – a great, thriving community, a special, unique place in a national park, part of a UNESCO Heritage Site, and of course an internationally famous destination, not to mention spectacularly beautiful – is a privilege. So every moment is the best moment. There have been no bad moments.

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

A: Mayor of Banff. Best job going. I would love to work with dolphins at some point though.

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

A: Hug my kids and tell everyone important to me why they are and how they have positively impacted by life. 

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

A: Ice cream.

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

A: Be grateful every day.

Her writing services span résumés, CVs, cover letters, bios and anything else requiring a tactical approach. Her primary clients are former military personnel and those wishing to progress within the police, firefighting, government, engineering and IT fields. The training component of Audrey’s service includes guidance for job interviews, salary negotiations, and employment search strategies. Companies will also call on Audrey for outplacement during downsizing initiatives or when a staff member has been fired.

Audrey’s interest and expertise with the Canadian Forces sparked her to write Canada’s only book to help the men and women who serve enter the civilian workforce. It’s called, “Military to Civvie Street. The Complete Job Transition Guide for those Leaving the Canadian Air Force, Army & Navy”. 

I asked her if she noticed any trends in the type of clients that retain her from Canada versus elsewhere. “Definitely” she responded. “Most of my NATO, UN and government / diplomat clients are not Canadian and do not want to work here. They stay abroad and are seeking more senior level roles. My IT, engineer, police, and firefighting clients are primarily Canadian. The former military people I work with can go either way: some want to work here while others enjoy the element of working on foreign soil. I really like the diversity of the projects I write and the people help.”

Out of curiosity, I wondered where most of her international clients come from. Without missing a beat, she knew, “The number one country where clients scope me out before permanently relocating to Canada is the UK, followed closely by Australia and then the US.”

I thought I’d see how the process goes so I decided to her have prepare my own personal job search collateral. I told her to put a marketing / event planning / project management spin on my documents. “No prob” she answered.

Audrey is comfortable using a combination approach to cull the marketability out of her clients.  She uses email, Skype, phone and personal meetings for client consultations. She writes from scratch and refers to letters of recommendation and performance appraisals to quantify achievements and extrapolate quotes. The bulk of the information she receives from clients is from a detailed questionnaire that she emails to them.

One thing that I noticed about Audrey having worked with her, she is equally tenacious regardless if she sees you vie à vie or not.

“It’s definitely a collaborative process,” Audrey emphasizes. “I make this very clear right from the onset. This, along with my knack for squeezing marketability out of absolutely everybody, is what my clients like about me and it’s why they send referrals”.

Audrey has a strong media presence and is a popular speaker at conferences, post secondary education facilities, and many corporate events within Canada and the US. She holds key global leadership positions within the careers industry. Not only is Audrey a credentialed and award winning writer and coach, she has been appointed for many roles with Career Directors International. Audrey is their International Committee Director, Canadian Advisor, Military Expert, Aerospace Expert, and peer mentor.

I asked her how she got into the careers business. “Before I launched my service out of Wasaga Beach back in 2001, I had taught elementary and high school for 11 years. I did everything I had wanted to do – regular classroom, Life Skills and Special Education programming. I’m always up for a challenge and I thrive where energy and enthusiasm are vital to succeed. I assessed my skills and thought what else can I do?” Her passion for writing and educating, along with an interest in careers, paved the way for her to start an industry that was, for the most part, unheard of.

“My teaching colleagues told me I was crazy for walking away from my job, pension and benefits and that I would not make it and that I would be back. Ever since was a kid, it never occurred to me that I would fail at anything so I didn’t listen to them. My first client was an Aviation Technician leaving CFB Borden. It started with one client and look where my company is today. I work with hundreds of clients each year. I absolutely love what I do and I deal with what other career pros refer to as the tough professions. I never tire of learning new things from my clients as I help them navigate their careers.”

It’s a safe bet that Audrey’s success is due to her personality. She counterbalances her direct approach and exceptionally keen analytical skills with a down to earth nature and a great sense of humour.

When I look at what Audrey wrote for me, after grilling me for details, explanations and examples of my career highlights, I could not be more pleased. The next time I go back to see her though, I’ll remember to keep my shoes on so Kiwi won’t run off with them.

You can contact Audrey at resumeresources@gmail.com

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

He has tirelessly campaigned to bring more doctors to the city. Since the program was initiated twenty one new doctors have signed up the program which guarantees income as long as they agree to practice in Belleville for at least five years.  Mayor Ellis is married with three children.

Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis

We asked Mayor Ellis to tell us a few things about himself that people may not know. This is what he had to say:

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: 68 Chevy pick-up truck

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

A: 68 Shelby GT Mustang

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

A: Changes day to day; because I don’t know enough to keep my mouth shut!

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

A: I am a pet lover

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

A: Taller; ideal height would be 6 ft

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: Honesty

Q: Mac or PC?

A: Both

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

A: England – what is old in Canada, is new in England

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

A: Belleville – no better place to live

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: Good Will Hunting.

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

A: Last Book – The Warships of the Bay of Quinte by Roger Litwiller; Current Book – Snoop – What Your Stuff Says About You by Sam Gosling.

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

A: Hockey, Golf

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: Hang out with my children.

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

A: Initiating the Physician Recruitment Program and providing primary health care to so many citizens.

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

A: I already have the best job in the world.

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

A: Stay at home with my family.

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

A: Spaghetti and Meatballs.

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

A: Optimism.

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 two dogs; I know you said only one item, but don’t make me choose between them!

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

A: Canada is a land of endless opportunities and possibilities; let your imagination guide you.

We thank Mayor Ellis for agreeing to answer our questions and wish him all the best for the his continued success.

If you would like to read about other Mayors across Canada – click here

I had just finished my plumbing apprenticeship and had gained employment with a local firm where Barb worked as a clerk. Our relationship started out as purely friendship and developed into boyfriend/girlfriend after about six months. After a year together we decided to get our own house, well a rented house as neither of us was earning much back then. Two years after that we got married.

Our lives plodded along like most people’s and after six years of working for the same company I decided to start my own plumbing business. This ended up being one of the best decisions I made (apart from marrying Barb of course) as I was suddenly working the jobs I wanted, in the hours that suited me and was soon earning more money than before. After only eight months I was in a position to take on another plumber to help out, along with an apprentice.

It was at this point that we bought our first home together, having lived in rented accommodation until this time. We purchased a small town house in a reasonable area of Calgary, close to where my business was based. Barb decided she wanted to leave her employment and she came to work for me (or was I working for her?) She was a godsend as by now business was very buoyant which meant that I had little time for taking phone calls or doing paperwork. Barb effectively became my personal assistant, booking in all the jobs, allocating the work, doing the bookkeeping and generally keeping us three guys in order.

In 2002 we moved house again, this time to a bigger property in a better area of  Calgary. Business was booming and we now had five employees working for us. During 2003, what is now known as the Alberta boom started to impact our lives. At first it was a very positive thing as it meant that there was plenty of work for us and the business was going from strength to strength. We were having a hard time keeping up with the number of jobs coming our way. We took on two more plumbers and everything was great.

This upward trend carried into 2004 and basically anyone who was in the construction trades was doing pretty well for themselves, including us. In June 2004 we moved house once again. This time we moved to the edge of the city to a lovely four bedroom detached property with a pool. It was the biggest and nicest property either of us had ever lived in and we felt very proud of ourselves for achieving so much in a relatively short time.

In 2005 three of my plumbers were offered jobs in other towns, which were also seeing the effects of the boom. Although they said they preferred to stay working for me, the other companies were offering more money, as they were so short of workers. Although our business was going well, we could not afford to pay the wages that other larger companies were paying and so they left.

This was a very strange time as work was plentiful, but I only had half my workforce and trying to recruit new workers when they could basically name their price in other companies and locations was very difficult. During 2006, although the company was still making a good living and we had no major complaints we still considered ourselves failures for having downsized the business albeit against our control. We saw other similar companies also experiencing the same issues and it became a major problem in the area. There was tons of work everywhere but no one to do it.

In the summer of 2006 Barb was talking to one of our neighbours who was thinking of moving to British Columbia to be near her daughter. Her husband had died the previous year and she lived alone. She told Barb the quote she had been given for the value of her house and we were both stunned. Although both our properties differed slightly, they were very similar and so would be worth similar amounts. If this valuation was correct it would mean we had made a lot of money from our house even though we had only lived there two years.

This put the idea of downsizing into our heads to free up some equity. We even broached the subject of taking a vacation, which we had not done in years. Barb decided to get our house valued and it turned out to be worth even more than we anticipated. The realtor suggested that the prices were increasing almost hourly and that he would have no trouble selling it.

The next few weeks we had to sit down and decide what we wanted to do. I was fed up with working all the hours of the day and so was Barb. One of my plumbers had previously asked about buying my business and we had laughed it off at the time, but now we had to decide if this was what we wanted to do. Basically we could carry on as we were, working all hours, living in a nice house and earning good money but having no time to enjoy ourselves. Or, we could sell the business and the house and walk away with a lot of money and free time. The trouble was we were still quite young and so the money would not last forever and also the house prices were rising all the time so even a property like we owned five years ago would cost a small fortune now.

After many weeks of sole searching we came to the conclusion we would be able to afford a much better property for a much smaller outlay in another province. Alberta was getting too expensive to live in and we felt we would get much better value for money and lower living costs elsewhere. My sister, Marcy lived in London, Ontario and we had often visited her and thought the area nice, so we decided to see what type of property we could afford and whether I could set my business up there.

Marcy did a lot of legwork for us looking at the business side of things and basically found out that I should have no trouble setting up a business in the area. There also seemed to be plenty of work about, so we made the big decision to move to Ontario.

Over the next few months we got the business valued and made arrangements to have it transferred to one of my employees. We spent two weeks in London with Marcy and spent most of the time house hunting. We found a really nice property in a small subdivision on the northern side of town that we really loved. It was a little smaller than our home in Calgary, but was still big enough for our needs. It also had a pool which we had gotten used to so did not want to have to loose, so that was a bonus. We put in an offer, which after a little haggling was accepted.

After this we went back to Calgary to tie up everything there. Fortunately Marcy kept an eye on everything for us in London, including overseeing the house inspection and keeping in touch with the realtor.

Our house went on the market in Calgary and amazingly we sold it within a week for more than the market valuation. In the end three parties wanted it so they ended up bartering between themselves and the price went up which was great news for us. The people that secured the house had already sold theirs and so they wanted a completion in three weeks. Although we would not be getting our London house for three weeks after this date we decided to accept this and Marcy said we could stay with her in the meantime.

We arrived in Toronto and Marcy collected us from the airport, we were now officially Ontarians. As arranged we stayed with Marcy whilst we waited for our house to complete and for one week after so that we could do some decorating before moving in for good. We spent our first night in our new house in October 2006.

We decided that we would not do anything regarding the business until after Christmas and so spent a couple of months getting used to the area. It is very flat around here compared to Calgary where we could see mountains in the distance. This took quite a lot of getting used to, there just isn’t any scenery here and not so many winter sports. We both love skiing and were used to driving a short distance to many different ski areas, but here we have to travel longer to find them. The fact that we are only a short distance to either Lake Huron or Lake Eire is really nice. There are quite a few really nice beeches about and so our summer activities have increased.

In 2007 I finally set up my business again and started off as just myself and Barb as my right-hand-woman. The equity we released from the sale of the Calgary house and business has been invested for our retirement, apart from some we kept back to live on and have holidays with.

In February 2009 we went back to Alberta for a skiing trip and Marcy and her partner Pete came with us. We had a great time but were not too disappointed to leave, so felt content that we had made the right decision to move.

In late 2010 we had our first child, Sarah, who was a bit of a surprise as we hadn’t actually planned to have children, but once we knew she was on the way we were really pleased.

As I write this Barb is pregnant with our second child. We don’t know the sex and don’t want to know until the birth, but a boy would be nice. I don’t think we are planning any more children after this one, but as we have found out, you never can tell what is in the future.

My business is doing well and I have one other person working for me. I could expand, but we decided a couple of years ago not to do that again and to stay smaller. We now seem to have the work-life balance about right. In Calgary it was all work and no time to have fun, but here life is more relaxed.

All in all we are very happy with our new house and new location. If we could throw in a few mountains it would be the icing on the cake, but you can’t have everything in life, can you? I feel much more relaxed in my work, although in Calgary I had lots of work and was earning more money, I didn’t realize how stressed out I had become until it all stopped.

I think our story proves that things can be just as frantic and frightening moving from one side of the country to another as moving from overseas. We were lucky to have Marcy to help us, I really feel for people who move to Canada and don’t know anyone, it must be really hard.

Beekeeping has been a sweet passion with Eliese, a history postgraduate. So much so that she has now started a social entrepreneurial venture, ABC (Apiaries and Bees for Communities) in Calgary that focuses on the development of educational opportunities for community members in regards to pollinators and healthy urban habitat development.

When Eliese moved from Crossfield, Alberta, to Calgary, Alberta, in 2005, she was overcome by a sense of being city-bound, and began to miss her country roots. She wanted to do something to make Calgary a greener and more diversified habitat. Bees, for some reason, fascinated her since childhood and she started focusing on urban beekeeping projects.

“In 2008, I was hearing about urban beekeeping projects happening all over the world, primarily in France, and decided that I would keep bees in Calgary. I began to do some research on beekeeping, and became attached to the Top-Bar Hive method of beekeeping, a method that has its origin in Kenya. Gradually beekeeping became a full time avocation,” she narrates.

Today, Eliese, through ABC, is committed to develop sustainable communities of urban beekeepers through the support of conventional and Top-Bar Hive management practices.

“Did you know that Alberta is the largest honey producer in Canada, and the fifth largest producer of honey in the world?” she informs with an air of expert.

“Beekeeping is a huge part of the Alberta agribusiness as it plays a significant role in canola pollination. There is currently an incredible increase of demand over supply, forcing beekeepers to look for ‘stock’ (GM bees, resistant varieties) from New Zealand and Australia,” she says.

Eliese is deeply involved in bringing small-scale and controlled apiaries to community and residential gardens. Through educational programming, mentorship and workshops, her venture seeks to support the urban beekeeping hobbyist by increasing the health and quantity of honeybee populations.

Telling a bit about her social venture, Eliese says her organization is focused on the development of educational opportunities for community members in regards to pollinators and healthy urban habitat development. “This is done through educational programming, hands-on opportunities, free or discounted workshops for the public, and collaboration with other sustainable initiatives within the community,” she says.

She is currently involved in providing educational courses and day-long hands-on workshops to those interested in apiaries. She is also involved with many communities, including some in Red Deer, in dissemination of beekeeping information, besides being an active member in biodiversity organizations.

“I strongly believe that by engaging the public in the development of skills, which support self-sufficiency and independence, may lead to a more resilient and vibrant community, “she declares.

Article by Peeyush Agnihotri

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

This lady from North India is an inspiration to many. An All- India Radio (AIR) announcer, who came to Canada nearly 10 years ago, with many dreams worked hard to realize them. Today, she owns a string of diverse businesses that include an ethic media production house, cosmetics clinic and an education plan agency. Deepshikha plans an electoral debut, now.

A popular face in the South Asian community, this Alberta Centennial Award winner, 2005, is seeking nomination as an MLA from one of the Calgary north east constituency on the Wildrose Alliance ticket.

“Since childhood, I was keen on co-curricular activities. My leanings towards poetry and writing brought me into media. I hosted my first radio show in India in 1996. Three years later, we (me and my family) moved to Edmonton, Canada, and to Calgary in 2003, she recalls.

The move didn’t come with many surprises as she and her husband were pretty ready to face the Canadian way of life.

READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE HERE

Original article by Peeyush Agnihotri

Their aim was to renovate the house and add to their chickens and goats to become completely self-sufficient. However, because the property was Grade II listed the renovations they needed to do had to abide by strict standards which increased the cost substantially. Also at this time British Airways (BA) decided to centralize their operations from Heathrow Airport in London, meaning that Steven would have a very long commute and possibly a pay cut. It would mean the couple would have to remortgage and Caroline would have to find a job to help pay for everything, if they decided to stay in the property.

The decision was made to sell the house and find somewhere new. But if they were going to sell and move they would look at moving outside the UK.

“We were very sad and reflected on everything and decided that enough was enough and that the UK was based on a pyramid scheme with everyone sinking everything into their houses – which meant that a boom and bust was not gonna be far away again.” says Caroline, “I said lets leave and look at New Zealand.”

READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE HERE

All the while she performed her music at assorted shows and festivals, and in 1995 released her debut album Comme de la musique. A year later she received the first Fondation Félix-Leclerc prize awarded by the FrancoFolies de Montréal, and played Place des Arts. In 1997, she opened for Georges Moustaki at the Casino de Paris, and won the Prix Sentier des Halles. She also won a Jutra Award as best supporting actress for the film Full Blast (1999).

She teamed up with avant-garde guitarist-producer Bernard Falaise for her second album, La Maline (2000), and the musical theatre creation Arbre à fruits, which both gained Marie-Jo yet more plaudits. By 2004, she had moved to France to finish Les matins habitables, becoming the first Canadian to record for the highly regarded Naive label, selling 50,000 copies (gold) and winning the 2006 Félix Award for best contemporary folk album.

And now, with the new double album Chasing Lydie, Marie-Jo Therio has broken out from her Francophone world and released her debut English-language album.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE

He also holds the post of President of Développement économique – CLD Gatineau and the Commission conjointe d’aménagement de l’Outaouais. He sits as a member of the Big City Mayors Caucus of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, of the executive committee and the board of directors of the Union des municipalités du Québec and of the Conférence régionale des élus de l’Outaouais.

As an entrepreneur, starting in 1982, he also served as acting director of recreational services for Rouyn-Noranda.

As an active member of his community, he was the founding member and vice-president of the “Association des gens d’affaires de Hull” and vice-president of the executive committee of the “Commission scolaire des Portages-de-l’Outaouais”.

Born in Abitibi, Mr. Bureau is married to Christiane Gourde and father of four children: Eloï, Audrey, Chloe and Chanel. He has a Bachelor’s degree in recreation from the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières and a certificate in administration from the Université de Montréal.

Always close to citizens, Mr. Bureau promotes transparency, sound management of public funds, maintenance of basic quality services, development of a safe living environment for all, affordable housing development and promotion of a dynamic economic development in Gatineau.

The environmental protection and sustainable development are at the heart of the actions of Mr. Bureau, who wishes to make Gatineau a city always greener, one city that stands out for its quality of life.

Mr. Bureau gave his time to answer our questions so that we can find out a little more about him.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE

With the neighbouring farmhouse empty, complete with old wood floors, and plastered walls, it allowed the brothers to convert the old stone home into a music studio.  Together Cole and Mike create and record music, along with their band (bass player David Rodrigues & Drums, Matt Smith) which they will be playing on tour this summer.  “Our farm is buried deep in the back of Hastings, and has provided us with perfect inspiration for writing and recording our music…”Cole added, “..it has also allowed us the privacy when necessary.”

Whether they are jamming in the old farm house, or in a Tavern downtown Toronto, the Matthews Brothers are authentic folk/rock artists that deliver music that has both depth and feeling.  This four piece band evokes a sound that is calm, yet diverse to many.  The Matthews Band appeals to a wide array of audiences ranging from folk to rock.  The brothers have the ability to harmonize, and pull you in and leave you wanting more.

“These classically trained brothers take inspiration from their past to write the diverse songs you hear today…..Take a listen you won’t forget them”

~New Music Canada CBC Radio 3 ~

“Rock meshed with folk-beauty, rich vocals, passionate energy, and soaring spirit that takes this journey sky-high into the atmosphere…this music that’s both joyous and introspective, a powerful statement from these rootsy-troubadours from Ontario.  This is a sound that’s irresistible in it’s vibrancy, harmonies, and atmospheric ode to classic Americana. Wonderful.”

~ The Lonely Vagabond, Exclaim! ~

Cole and Mike Matthews can often be seen downtown Toronto at the Horseshoe Tavern, The Bellevegas Lounge, downtown Belleville, or featured at the Indie Week Festival, which they have been given a return invitation. The band looks forward to this summer’s 2011 upcoming tour across Canada.

Listen to a few of their songs for FREE at http://www.thematthewsbrothers.com/ …”WHAT IF I”, “GEM”, “UNDER THE WINTERSKY”, ” FOREVER THE DAY”.

The Matthews Brothers can be contacted on facebook http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/TheMatthewsBrothers or myspace at http://www.myspace.com/TheMatthewsBrothers for tour dates and recent updates on the band!

Original article By Lesley Galloway

We recently sent out a number of requests to the Mayors of many of Canada’s most popular towns and cities and invited them to answer a series of questions to find out more about the person behind the official face of the Mayor. We were surprised how many of them responded, and even more surprised at some of the answers to the questions we asked.

We hope you’ll enjoy the articles and if you would like to suggest a Mayor to contact please feel free to drop us an email and we’ll send out a questionnaire.

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO “MEET THE MAYORS”

Click on one of the following categories:

MEET THE MAYOR

REAL LIFE STORIES

MEET THE PEOPLE

Having lost both his arms, in 1994, when he came in touch with 11,000-volt live electrical grid wires in Nepal, Sudarshan, then 14, saw the worst.

“A kite that I was flying got entangled in the overhead electricity transmission wires. I tried getting it with a metal pole. Next thing I remember is getting a huge shock and waking up at a military hospital in Kathmandu with both my arms amputated,” he recalls.

Yet he didn’t resign to fate.

Left with no arms and little option, Sudarshan reinvented himself. He started using his feet to eat, write and perform daily chores. He would practice 14 hours a day and gradually made them work like hands.

Eleven years later, in 2005, Sudarshan scaled 5,700-m Mount Yala peak, as if to bring home a point. He thus became the first disabled individual to do so thereby creating history. For him now, disability is not an inability.

Bad political conditions in Nepal, where he was kidnapped twice, made him move to Canada. He fled the Himalayan kingdom in 2006. He and his wife landed in Toronto but a year later decided to settle in Calgary because of vast open land, majestic Rockies and the Bow (river).

READ THE REST OF THIS INSPIRATIONAL STORY HERE

In addition to his duties as Mayor, Mark serves on the Police Services Board, Kingston Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors, Kingston Hydro, St. Lawrence College Community Council, the FOCUS Kingston Steering Committee and is ex-officio of all council committees.

Mark studied computer science at St. Lawrence College and has a degree in Economics from Queen’s University of Kingston. He is a self-employed property manager who currently resides in the Portsmouth district with his partner, Kate, and their dog, Otis.

He kindly agreed to answer some in-depth questions where we discover his love of lasagna and snowboarding, not necessarily in that order!

READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE HERE

The sound of drums echo through the air and the audience is transported to a time and place far from the Grand Theatre in Kingston where they actually sit. They are captivated by the sound of Kodo, a traditional Japanese drum troop who graced the stage in March as part of their One Earth Tour.

This amazing performance is one of many that Cultural Director Brian McCurdy has brought to the stage of the Grand since its reopening in May 2008. His vision of bringing performing arts to Kingston led to the formation of Grand Theatre Presents.

“With the aid of sponsors, donors and government support, we aim to bring new experiences to the community and expose them to the best the performing arts can offer.” says McCurdy. “Kodo is an excellent example of that”

The theatre is very community driven, indeed its very existence is thanks to the locals both at government and public levels. Although the theatre originally opened its doors back in 1879 as Martin’s Opera House, it has been through both good and bad times. In 1889 it presented Leo, the Royal Cadet, Canada’s first ever opera written by two Kingston residents. But in 1898 a fire destroyed the building.

In 1902 Ambrose Small rebuilt the theatre, this time calling it the Grand Opera House, to much acclaim. Many performances graced its boards over the next few years including Al Jolson and Harry Houdini. However in 1919 the theatre saw its first real life murder mystery. In that year Small decided to sell the Grand along with other theatres he owned for the sum of $1,700,000. On the day of the sale he met with his lawyer at the Grand Opera House in Toronto which he owned. The meeting ended and the lawyer left, but Ambrose Small was never seen again.

READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE HERE

In the UK, Jon was a civil servant organizing the repair of military equipment around the world. Janet worked in a car dealership as an administrator. They submitted their application for the skilled worker program in August of 2006 but found out the waiting list was around five years. Not prepared to wait this length of time Jon started looking for work in Canada. He found a job as an auto mechanic in Edmonton, Alberta and after several telephone interviews was offered the job. Now he had to satisfy the LMO (Labour Market Opinion) criteria and have his qualifications, references etc approved. He also had to obtain his Journeyman Certificate which had to be done in Canada.

In January 2008 the couple arrived in Edmonton on a six month work permit. They spent the first few nights at a local hotel and then found a place to rent in the city. When they moved they sold their home in the UK, along with all their belongings. So they had money, but not much else. “We came over with two suitcases each and our cat, which subsequently went missing and was never seen again.” laughs Janet.

Jon started his job and Janet looked for one herself, finally securing placement in an office after about five weeks. “This was a dreadful experience,” she says. “The women already had their clique quota, so I was not made welcome. Also,

one of the male employees constantly told me that I was smelly, explaining that all immigrants stink! I did report this to management, but they did absolutely nothing.

READ THE REST OF JANET AND JONS STORY HERE

Steven Draper is an award winning photographer from Prince Edward County, Ontario. His portfolio is extensive and includes stunning photography that seems to literally speak to the viewer. You won’t get a simple scenic shot from Draper, instead you will get a dramatic, carefully crafted work of art.

“Whilst working towards an overall end result,” says Draper, “I believe that it is attention to all the small details that will make the difference between an OK piece and the great piece that you deserve.”

Draper, originally from England was once an airline pilot for British Airways. When he was made Captain he became one of the youngest the company ever had. In 2006 he, his wife Caroline and their young son moved to Nova Scotia. After an illness in 2008, he had to leave his beloved aviation career and instead focused on his second love, photography. It was also around this time that the family moved to Prince Edward County.

CONTINUE TO READ STEVENS STORY HERE

Having been born in Canada, it was always an option for me to return but it wasn’t until the Autumn of 2002 that my husband and I reached the decision that, for the benefit of our children, as well as ourselves, this would be the best thing to do.

We spent years watching successive British Governments allow the plundering of our National Health system by non tax paying immigrants and visitors to the UK, the overloading of the education system and the clogging up of the roads, and all because, we felt, they had allowed unrestricted immigration to the point of saturation. This doesn’t mean that we are against immigration (after all Jim is now one himself) but it’s just that there was no monitoring. We got to the point where we could not see any way that this could be undone and as a result, both we and our children would suffer in years to come, whether it be with health care, employment, or otherwise.

Once the decision was made to leave the UK, Canada became the first choice as it would be easy for us to move there because of my citizenship and it had the reputation of being one of the top countries that people wanted to emigrate to. As I mentioned, I was born in Canada although I had not lived there since the age of two. But because I had not obtained a British Passport prior to February 1977, it meant that quite without intent, I had managed to retain my Canadian citizenship and therefore emigration for me was not a problem. Our two children Zoe and Aidan were also Canadian citizens by default. My husband Jim however was a Brit through and through, so the only way he could legally enter Canada permanently was if I sponsored him, which I did.

We did very little research regarding where we would live in Canada. We knew we wanted to be near Toronto, but not actually in the city. We basically got the map out and followed the lake east and came across the Quinte region, and were drawn to Prince Edward County, an island just south of Belleville and Trenton. We decided to see what this area could offer and if it wasn’t suitable we would look to the west of Toronto.

Jim was granted permanent residency in July of 2003 and we landed in Canada on August 22, 2003 after a heart wrenching farewell party with family and friends. After a weekend staying in Toronto, we headed up to Belleville on the following Monday. Looking back, I think we must have been either awfully brave or awfully stupid and I cannot decide which. Neither of us had jobs to go to but had at least managed to rent a house ahead of our arrival which meant that we did have somewhere to lay our heads the first night; however, the problem was what on!

Having found the house which we had rented out at Demorestville and marveling on how lucky we were to be going to live in such a beautiful spot, reality then struck and we realized that we would have to go shopping if we were going to survive the first night. Walmart must have been rubbing their hands together when they saw us heading back in 9.00 p.m. that evening for our third trip of the day purchasing everything from air beds and bedding, electrical equipment such as a TV, kettle etc to knives and forks. Finally at 10.00 p.m. the store closed and we headed back to the house to make up beds and get the children to sleep.

I look back on that first day with such good memories, not least the feeling of adventure and starting out on a whole new chapter in our lives. That said, I wonder whether we weren’t just a little mad!

We didn’t realize how difficult it would be for Jim, having 30 years of practical experience, but few paper qualifications, to find a job. The employers seemed very wary of taking him on, not because they didn’t think that he could do the job, but because they thought that he might find their way of doing things too different. Eventually he took a job back at square one so to speak and had to work his way up again, which he did do very quickly and is now the General Manager at the motor dealership where he works.

For me it seemed a whole lot easier. I worked in real estate my whole working life in the UK and whilst it is very different here and I had to re-learn the process, there is a real need for real estate secretaries and I managed to secure a position without too much difficulty.

After ten months in the rental accommodation we decided to buy our own house. We purchased our house in Rednersville, which completed at the end of May 2004 whereas our rental lease ran out at the end of June. Therefore we were able to take the month of June to move gradually and did not make the final move until the children finished their school year.

We found the house buying process relatively easy but that was mainly because by that time I was working for a lawyer in Picton who did the purchase for us. I now work for a company in Belleville and have helped a few British families with their home purchases in the area.

In the years since moving a lot has happened. Zoe will turn 18 at the end of March and is off to Ottawa University in the Fall and Aidan is now 16 and is in his second semester in grade 11 at High School. We have all just attended Jim’s citizenship ceremony in Ottawa which was a great honour. At least now we are all Canadian citizens.

One of the hardest periods was the summer of 2007 when I lost my Dad. He was in the UK and it was the first time I truly wished that I was living in the UK. I found it very difficult not being able to be with him when he was really sick.

We built a new house three years ago but have now decided to move into the City so the house is currently on the market. So if any of your readers are moving out here and need a five bedroom five bathroom house – let me know!

We have had a couple of holidays in Palm Springs where my Aunt and Uncle live and were fortunate enough to be able to celebrate my grandmother’s 98th and 99th birthdays with her in Santa Barbara, California before she passed away in November 2009.

Overall, I am still very happy that we made the decision to move here but now accept that there are certain things which will never be the same. I miss family gatherings in particular and feel that in the 8 years since we left the UK I have definitely missed out on my nieces and nephews growing up.

On the plus side, my children have had a wonderful transition from childhood into their teenage years and very much see Canada as their home. On the odd occasion that I refer to where we live now as “over here” or to the UK as “back home” they will both look at me most indignantly but I guess it’s just habit.

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

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.

One of those people who decided to look for pastures new was Guillermo. He and his wife Pat were born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina and had become very disillusioned with the country. This led them to look for somewhere new to live and raise their children. At the end of 2003 they had decided to apply for permanent residency via the Quebec Skilled Worker program.

Canada calls to one Argentinian family

“At that time, Quebec seemed to offer a win-win situation,” explains Guillermo, “they needed us (a family of university graduates with small children) and we needed them (a better place to live, despite the language barrier). The whole application process took about 18 months and we finally moved to Quebec at the end of May 2005.”

The couple and their two children Santiago, then aged 8 and Facundo who was not yet two, rented an apartment in Hull, Gatineau.

“I still remember it: a small, two bedroom apartment in an “immigrant ready” suburb close to Gatineau Park.” he says.

“We were looking for a place not as big and chaotic as a capital city, so Montreal was discarded  and not so small and isolated like Sherbrooke. Gatineau seemed to be the perfect choice. It was close to Ottawa, where we could work in English. We had studied French during our processing period but we always felt more comfortable with English.”

Although they had some monitory funds behind them, they needed to find work quickly and within a month Guillermo was working in a call centre on the east side of Ottawa.

“My job was providing phone support for Internet users in the USA. It was not what I was looking for, of course, but it was a job and helped to stop the money bleeding from the bank. In the meantime, my wife was doing training at an non-profit organization.” Whilst the couple worked their eldest child was attending a French school and the youngest in day care.

In March 2006 the family moved to Waterloo in Ontario where Guillermo finally had a job he wanted. Pat assisted at a local LINC program (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) and Santiago continued his Elementary School in French at a school in Waterloo whilst Facundo was enrolled in local day care.

The family then experienced a big change when in January 2007 their third son Martin was born. Around this time Santiago was moved from his French school to a Catholic school after he experienced difficulties. This was his third school in two years and meant he had to make new friends, get to know new teachers and a completely new system.

“In 2008 Pat and I decided to move back to the National Capital Region.” says Guillermo. “This time, we did not move back to Gatineau, but instead decided to settle in Kanata. We decided to return as we were missing our friends in the region very much. We rented a garden home in Katimavik that happened to be very poorly maintained which led us to experience our coldest and most expensive winter in Canada. Of course, the move once again meant the children had to change schools and my wife had to look for a job.”

After all these changes they finally decided to put down roots and committed to buying their first home in Canada. They moved in during the summer of 2009 and because the home was located close to the children’s schools they did not have to move them again.  Around this time Pat found a good job in Ottawa that she enjoyed and is in fact still working there. Finally in January 2010 they all became Canadian citizens, except of course Martin, who having been born in Canada was one automatically.

“We can say we finally settled. We all have our routine, our social circle and we do not plan to change cities for a long time!” jokes Guillermo.

So, now the family is finally settled and happy do they every regret the move to Canada?

“Yes, sometimes I do.” Guillermo admits, “There’s no particular situation. Sometimes it is when my kids are having a problem and I don’t know how to deal with it ‘the local way’. Sometimes it is when I miss some things from Argentina, or some people or places. But, to be honest, it happens the most when I have one of those cultural clashes that can trigger an unwanted discussion with someone. It doesn’t happen that much, but it happens.”

What advice can Guillermo offer to other potential newcomers?

“I always tell people to be ready for the first couple of years, they are the most difficult ones. Those two years happen so fast and in such a brutal way that you must be ready for many things in many different fronts: you must take care of your limited finances, you must look for a job, you must face the deception of not being able to find the job you want as soon as you want it.

“You must also take care of each other and be supportive if partners or children are feeling sad or depressed. Immigration is a team exercise: it’s you, your life partner, your children. Every one of you will have to settle and will have his/her own internal process. And be sure this process is not the same for everyone. If you do not take care of all these details, the process will ‘unsync’ and you will all be living different experiences at the same time.”

We then asked Guillermo what things they liked doing in Canada that they could not have done in Argentina?

“This is a great question, and it’s something that can be answered thinking about a lot of small, daily things like forgetting to lock my front door or the car door and being sure nothing will happen.

When complaining about a bad service or product and knowing that  someone will listen and I may be compensated. Being able to change a product I bought with almost no questions at all. When going for a drive knowing that most of the drivers will be respectful (most, not all but exceptions are the few) and being sure that the rules and laws will be the same for (almost) all of us and that being responsible and being a good citizen has its benefits.”

Overall what do the family like and dislike about their new country?

“I like life predictability, the order, the respect, the acts of kindness, the weather (both cold and hot!) I love its boring politics, the access to credit (it’s so good to have access to so many goods and services!) and not being afraid of losing all I was able to achieve from one day to the other. I love being a human and a resource at the office. I’m sure I’m forgetting lots of other things.”

Guillermo continues with his negatives, “I don’t like the access to credit (it can be so dangerous sometimes!) I don’t like the constant use of euphemisms. I don’t like how slow things are sometimes (in particular when you need a doctor!) I don’t like that it takes so long to get the confidence and trust of Canadians. I don’t like their sense of friendship and having to make an appointment with them just to share a few drinks.”

On a final note Guillermo has this to say. “Come here with an open mind. Be ready to share your life with the most different colours, languages and… odours. Be ready to change your life if it’s needed and, as one good friend once told me “Be careful with what you wish for in Canada… It could be granted!”

Guillermo has set up a website to help other South Americans navigate the immigration process. You can find it here: http://loszieglerencanada.com/

To ensure that you receive future issues of Muchmor Magazine join us on Facebook.

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?

Read The Online Digital Version:

Download A PDF Version:

Buy A Printed Version:

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

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

None of us likes to think about death, but as Deborah explains, by doing so now we can prevent a lot of heartache and financial distress when the inevitable eventually happens.

Deborah Van Pelt who is a Pre-Planning Advisor with the Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries

I am a pre-planning advisor with the Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries, which owns ten cemeteries across the GTA. I can help anyone interested at any one of these cemeteries.

I love what I do and I really enjoy the work that I do for others, as I know I am making a difference in their life. I assist and help individuals and their families make informed decisions with regard to prearranging their funeral, burial and memorialization options.

How did you get started in this line of business & when did you start?

I got started in the Cemetery business in 1999, as I really believed it to be a gift to families, when people have everything organized for their loved ones.

As a result of personally experiencing the benefits of prearranging after the death of one of my loved ones, I thought this was a way I could help people with such a difficult.

What did you do before getting into this business?

Prior to working in the Cemetery Business, I worked for Bell Canada for twenty-five years.

What sort of people buy your services?

As more people today are aware of the benefits of prearranging, I would have to say there is no specific demographic, but if I had to choose one, it would be the 50 plus.

How do you find new business?

Most of my business is through referrals from family and friends. I find this to be such a personal compliment for the service I provided to my clients.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

The most difficult part of my business, is when I have to help one of my customers who have just experienced the death of a loved one. You know how hard this is for them, as there is so much emotional pain during this often very difficult time.

What are the typical costs associated with burial/cremation etc?

There are so many variables, including the type of burial and/or cremation option that is chosen. For example, would you purchase a grave, a niche, or a mausoleum crypt; do you want an upright monument; what sort of urn do you want, etc? On average a person is looking at about $10,000 to $15,000 for one person to have a funeral, with a visitation and burial, depending on the options they choose.

I will be willing to personalize a quote for anyone who wishes, if you would like to e-mail me your request at dvanpelt@mountpleasantgroup.com.

What is the most common misconception about your business?

That a family member or a friend wants to take care of and/or make decisions on your behalf for your personal affairs.

Give us some unusual facts about your business.

There are a number of facts that I find quite interesting, and I believe others will too. A few of them are:

• That there are so many different cultures and each has very specific, and quite different, funeral and burial rituals;
• Several Churches, Temples and Mosques buy land as a Group Sale, e.g. 50 to 500 graves, for the future;
• That many Asian Families like to bury South-facing and do not like the number four, as it means death even if it is for their grave;
• Orthodox families prefer East-facing land;
• That land prices increase every year, as we are running out in the Toronto area.

Astrid Hood Realtor

She explained that a lot of her working day is spent on the computer updating property details, researching new listings and general real estate business. She felt I would find it boring just watching her do that and so had arranged that I accompany her on a new listing visit.

So, I arrived at the Remax office at 12 noon and spent half an hour or so chatting with Astrid about various aspects of the realty industry before we set off to the house she was going to list.

I took the opportunity to ask her a few questions about herself and her work and how she got into real estate.

“I have been a Realtor for four years,” explains Astrid, “I was named Top Sales Representative in our office in 2010 and have been in the top 20 sales team for the entire company.”

So what did she do before embarking on a real estate career?

“I have a degree in landscape architecture and was self employed in this field for many years. My husband and I used to live west of Toronto, but when we moved to the Campbellford area I decided to change my career.”

By now it was time to visit the property Astrid was going to list which was located just a few minutes from Campbellford. It was a corner lot surrounded by trees which although deep in snow and bare of leaves when we visited would actually give the property lots of privacy during the summer months.

We were greeted at the door by the property owner, a retired lady who having lost her husband some years before was looking to downsize. She explained that she had spoken to other Realtors® but that she had decided to list with Astrid as she felt her valuation was more realistic than others she had received and she felt she could trust her more.

Astrid and the seller agreed on a listing price, now it was time for the paperwork.  As with all legal things there was quite a lot of paperwork and lots of questions to ask. Fortunately the seller was very organized and was able to produce her property details, such as title, plans, property taxes etc that Astrid required. Most of the questions were easily answered but a few were confusing but Astrid soon explained them and they were then answered. She also explained all the legal jargon that was included so that the seller had a clear understanding of what she was agreeing to.

Then it was time to go round the house measuring room sizes and taking photos. Most of the upstairs rooms were empty as the seller mainly lived in the basement. This made it easy to measure, but is apparently not so good for photos as buyers like to be able to see how furniture fits in to a room. A good case for staging I say.

All in all we were at the sellers property for a couple of hours finishing up with external photos. This bit wasn’t so nice as it was very cold with lots of snow on the ground. Astrid finished the visit by nailing her For Sale sign to a tree in at the front of the property.

On the way back to the office Astrid explained that she would now hand the details and photos over to the office administrator who would enter the information onto the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Once there it would be there for other Realtors to see as well and the general public.

Once back at the office, I set about asking some more questions.

How many properties do you list per year on average?

“That varies, but during 2010 I probably listed around 25 properties in total. Of those about 15 sold and the remainder are still for sale.”

What is you highest selling property?

“Last year I sold a commercial property consisting of 15 cottages on Pigeon Lake. It sold for $1.3 million.”

What would you say to someone who thought that Realtors were not worth the money?

“I would say that they need to look at exactly what a Realtor can offer. We offer a full-service which includes everything from our expert knowledge of the business, the value of properties, advertising services, MLS listing, personal service, confidentiality and of course we are all covered by a strict Code of Ethics. These are not things that the general public and sale by owner websites can offer.”

What would you say is the biggest mistake buyers and seller make?

“For sellers it is definitely overestimating the value of their home. Often people sell with their hearts and think just because they have put ‘X’ number of dollars into the property they should get that much, plus more back, but it doesn’t always work like that. They also tend to get offended by low offers, but I have to explain that there is always room for negotiation and that an initial offer is only the starting point.

“For buyers the biggest mistake is not getting pre-approved by a mortgage lender. This can lead to people thinking they can afford more than they actually can. Also, a lot of buyers set their sights on a ‘champagne” property but only have a “beer” budget. They have unrealistic expectations of what they can get for their money.”

What are the best and worst aspect of your job?

“The best is definitely helping people fulfill their dreams. It is very satisfying when you have a happy buyer or seller. One of the best things is when you get a thank you note from someone who appreciates what you have done for them and they are happy.

“The worst is obviously when things go wrong. Unfortunately not all transactions go to plan and it is very upsetting not just for the client but for myself as well. Sometimes a property will not sell as the client has insisted it be listed at a higher price than I recommend. Then they get angry and blame me for its failure to sell. That can be upsetting when I know I have done nothing wrong, and can see exactly where the problems lie but the client cannot.”

If you weren’t a Realtor, what would you be?

“I would love to invest in properties and flip them. Or perhaps be a mortgage advisor. If I were to retire from being a Realtor, I think I would spend more time in the garden and get back to my original career choice designing landscapes, but as a hobby.”

If your house were on fire, what items would you rescue before leaving, excluding family, pets and photos?

“If it was winter, my coat and boots, then my handbag.”

What are your hobbies and pastimes?

“I love yoga and also spend a lot of time in my hot tub. My husband and I also like to go camping, so when we have free time we can often be found by a lake or in the back country.

“I also love to play piano and I play at Warkworth Nursing Home one a month for the people there. I also play for the local church when the regular player is unavailable.’

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

“I would be more extrovert.”

After I had finished barraging Astrid with questions and she had taken a couple of phone calls it was time for me to leave. I really enjoyed my time with her and found the property visit very interesting.

I would love to be able to spend another day with her, perhaps when the weather is warmer and we can visit some of her lakeside listings. Not sure if this is for the benefit of Muchmor or me, but let’s pencil something in for May….

We moved to Brandon about eighteen months ago because my dad was offered a job here. He said the offer was too good to turn down so we all moved. When he first made this decision my mum was not very happy, as she liked Vancouver and had always lived there. She cried quite a lot back then, but we had only just lost my grandma, her mum, so the timing was not good for her.

Dad did ask us what we thought of the move and I said that I didn’t want to move because of missing all my friends and changing schools. Mary didn’t really want to move either but didn’t say that to dad.

Moving boxes

In the end, us kids didn’t really have much choice as mum and dad had already decided that we were going to move and that was it. This is why I wanted to tell my story, so that other kids in our situation can see what we went through and learn by it.

From the time that dad announced we were moving to when we actually did was about three months. It all happened really quickly and we were so busy we really didn’t have too much time to think about it all. Our house in Vancouver had been sold and we were going to be renting in Brandon until mum and dad could find a house to buy.

We moved during the summer break so that Mary and me could start new schools in September. I remember having a really hard time saying goodbye to all my friends and telling them they could all visit and that I would visit them not realizing how far away we would actually be. I have never been so unhappy in all my life, or scared.

On the day we finally left Vancouver we said goodbye to a few last friends and family. Saying goodbye to my grandpa was the worst thing as he was now all on his own. Mum was very upset and cried most of the way to the airport.

On the flight we were all very quiet and dad tried his best to cheer us up, but it didn’t really work. We landed in Winnipeg and had to drive for a couple of hours to reach Brandon. We didn’t have much stuff with us because all our furniture and big items were in storage until we could find a house.

When we arrived at our rented house we were quite surprised as it was actually quite nice. In Vancouver we lived in an apartment, which was really nice, but to have a whole house to ourselves was awesome. It was in a cul-d-sac, which meant that it was safe for us to play outside. When we arrived there were a few other kids playing basketball, they looked younger than me but similar age to Mary.

The first few days were spent getting to know the house and where everything was. My bedroom was bigger than my old room, which was good, but Mary’s was a bit smaller and she was not so happy. Mum had cheered up a bit as she really liked the house and also she was really busy so it kept her mind off everything. Dad had to start work the week after we moved,so it was up to mum and us to sort everything else out. Mum took us to see our new school, we couldn’t go in but it looked ok from the outside. It was much smaller than our old school, but a lot newer. The next few weeks were busy with dad working; mum making friends with the neighbours and me and Mary trying to make new friends. I met a girl who lived a few houses down and because we were the same age and would be going to the same school we seemed to get along well. Mary had made several friends, as most of the kids in our street were closer to her age than mine.

In September we started school and mum was more upset than we were. I think she was worried about suddenly being on her own most of the day. I was not looking forward to school, but my new mate Becky from down the road assured me it was a good school and that I would like it. She was right as I really enjoyed my first few days. I was a bit of a celebrity as I came from Vancouver and lots of people wanted to talk to me about coming from a big city. I even had to do a presentation to the rest of the class about my old life and how we came to move to Brandon.

When we had been here about two months, mum and dad started to look for a house to buy. Dad was getting on well in his job, we kids liked our school and had made friends and mum was feeling more settled. We all wanted to stay in the same area so we could keep our friends and stay at the same school.

One evening mum and dad said they had found a house they wanted us to see. It turned out to be in the cul-d-sac, which backed onto ours, so the location was great. When we went to see it, it was very similar to the house we were renting but had four bedrooms instead of three and best of all had a swimming pool in the garden. We had never had a swimming pool, so Mary and I were really keen to move to this house. After a few days mum told us we would be moving to the new house but that by the time we did it would be too cold to use the pool but that we could look forward to using it the following year.

We moved into the new house about three weeks before Christmas and all our furniture from Vancouver arrived. This was nice as it really felt like home with our own beds and sofa etc. Dad went out and got an enormous Christmas tree and we spent a couple of evenings decorating the house inside and out. Grandpa came to stay with us over Christmas and New Year and we all had a really great time, although mum and grandpa were sad sometimes when they remembered grandma. I also felt sad when I got a present from my best friend in Vancouver. It was a DVD of all my old friends sending me messages and I have to admit it made me remember how much I missed them all.

The winter weather was much colder and snowier than we had in Vancouver. We were used to snow because we did get it in Vancouver and we used to go skiing and skating in the winter, but we usually had to travel to see large amounts of it. In Manitoba we had it on our doorstep, literally. The cold was also a shock as we had rarely experienced really low temperatures and some days it was -20C and lower. Mary really hated it and sometimes refused to go outside although I cannot blame her. By the spring the weather was much warmer and more like our old winters in B.C.

The spring and summer have been pretty uneventful. We all seem to have settled in pretty well and Grandpa has visited a few times. In June we had a huge storm that was really exciting but also very scary. We are used to rain in Vancouver, but this was really, really heavy. We also had huge hail stones which damaged property and peoples cars. The rain also meant that a lot of the city was flooded and some of the streets looked more like rivers.

In July we all went to Yellowstone National Park for a holiday

In July we all went to Yellowstone National Park for a holiday. We drove to the park, or rather dad did as he said it would be more interesting than flying. As it was the land we drove through was quite boring, at least Mary and I thought so, but it was worth it. It took two days to drive there and we stopped off half way in a hotel, which was quite exciting for Mary and me as we had our own room. Dad told us off though for using the drinks from the room fridge. He said it would have been a lot cheaper from the vending machine in the hallway.

We had great weather and the sights at Yellowstone are stunning. We saw lots of geysers erupting including the famous Old Faithful. One area we went to was really smelly from the sulphur and it made it hard to breathe. I had always wanted to see the pool called Morning Glory after seeing a picture of it, but it was much smaller than I thought it would be although it was still very beautiful.

When we got back from Yellowstone we had two more weeks left of summer before we had to go back to school. It was the day before school when Mary fell over on the deck round our pool and broke her arm. She was outside with some friends and they were running around which mum had always warned us not to do when she slipped and fell. Mum was a few doors away chatting to a neighbour, so I ran round to fetch her. She nearly fainted when she saw Mary’s arm as it was a funny shape where the bone had broken. The neighbour that mum had been with took us all to the local hospital and after being seen by a doctor Mary had x-rays done. Fortunately they said it was a clean break and would mend without any surgery or pins etc. She had to have her arm put in plaster which after she got over all the initial shock and pain she thought rather cool. We went back to school a couple of weeks ago and after the first day the plaster cast Mary had was full of drawings and messages. She says she wants to keep it when it is removed, which should be in a few weeks time.

When I was first told about moving to Manitoba I was really worried and really did not want to go. I think if it had been up to us girls and mum we would never have left Vancouver. However, now I am glad we are here as I have just as many friends, I love school and I love the after schools activities. The weather has more extremes, as it is a lot colder in the winter and a lot hotter in the summer.

Our house is bigger than the apartment we had before and we have a garden, with a pool, which is excellent. Mum and dad are thinking of making our basement into a separate living area for grandpa. He is getting old now and cannot get about like he used to and of course he is on his own, so this might be a good idea.

Looking back, the move has been good and I don’t really regret it. I do still miss some of my old friends and I know mum misses some of hers, but she has new ones here just like I do. Dad seems to be enjoying his job and has been promoted so is earning more money.

This coming Christmas we are going to stay back in Vancouver so we are close to Grandpa, unless he is living with us by then. It will be nice to visit the old places again and possibly escape some of the harsher Brandon weather.

For other young people who are worried about moving I would say try not to worry too much. It is stressful and you will miss people, but it is also a big adventure. Also, if you are lucky like me you might also gain a swimming pool.

Denise first noticed vision problems with her right eye and went to see her eye doctor. She was then referred to a neurologist and by this time was also experiencing numbness in her toes which moved up to her waist.

“My expectations for the treatment are that I can get rid of the fatigue and get more energy.”

“I was diagnosed after a year of seeing various doctors.” explains Denise, “I had MRI’s and spinal taps done. My initial response was shock at first. I didn’t know what MS was except seeing Richard Pryor and Annette Funachello. I thought I was going to be in a wheelchair. My husband said “don’t worry, we will figure it out, we will are together on this.” My son was 7 years old and when we explained to him, once we understood the disease, he said “Are you going to die?” I said not anytime soon, he said “ok” and was fine with that answer. My daughter was quiet.”

Over the years Denise has had many different MS symptoms including weak left side, balance issues, right eye cloudiness, brain fog, spams, fatigue and heat intolerance.

“Sometimes if feels like someone dumped cold water down my back.” she says “Not being able to stand up from a chair because my leg has stopped working and having bladder issues are also constant problems. My life has been affected, I have to preplan anything that I do: I need to sleep if I have a function to go to, I need to make sure I am prepared. Some days I stay in bed all day. In the summer, I have to use air conditioning which costs more the summer. I could not go on school outings with my children because of the walking involved. My own mother was very supportive in that role, but I still feel I missed out on a lot with my children. My children are my world.”

Denise was very skeptical about CCSVI when she first heard about it, after all MS’ers are used to “miracle treatments” being found such as bee venom therapy and the like. However after talking with over 80 people either on the phone or internet and listening to their experiences she was convinced of its benefits and decided to go ahead with treatment.

So far she has had Doppler done in Ontario and is now looking to fundraise to receive the treatment.

“I haven’t fully decided where to have my treatment done, but I want a doctor who is experienced in this procedure, not someone who has treated only a handful of people.

“My expectations for the treatment are that I can get rid of the fatigue and get more energy. Just to be better than I am now, even if it takes time will be a huge benefit.”

Denise is now actively fundraising so that she can book treatment.

‘When grandchildren come along, I want to be able to hold them without fear of dropping them because of my MS.” she says, “Hopefully this treatment will give me my life back.”

Husband Doug ads, “I want the vibrant, bubbly wife I married back. If this treatment can even go part way to offering that then it will have been worth every penny.”

If you would like to help Denise please drop us a line

More Stories from real people:

Yvonne Andersen from Truro, Nova Scotia is 52 and since being liberated herself is campaigning vigorously for the right of all Canadian MS’ers to receive the treatment here at home. Read about her MS journey here.

Maria Dekleer was first diagnosed with MS in 1991 when she was just 29 years old, married with two young children. She is now 49 and lives in Carlsbad Springs near Ottawa, Ontario. Read about how CCSVI treatment changed her life

Steve Garvie from Barrie Ontario is now in the process of helping others who suffer from MS

Read more real life stories about MS and CCSVI treatments

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

When we last spoke in early 2009, you were working on your second album. Now that it has been released what can you tell us about it?

My latest album titled “Blondes Prefer Gentlemen”

My latest album titled “Blondes Prefer Gentlemen” was released in July of 2010. I wrote and produced all the songs myself except for the one cover song “I Wanna Be Loved By You” first made famous by Betty Boop and later Marilyn Monroe. Marilyn Monroe was a bit of a theme behind this album. The title itself is a play on one of her famous films “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes”. And of course the image of me on the cover of my new album was very inspired by the famous shot of Marilyn in her white dress, but instead I chose magenta for my dress – my favourite colour. I actually first released my cover of “I Wanna Be Loved By You” on Myspace on August 5^th, the 48^th anniversary of her death. I’m very proud and excited about my new material. I’ve had only amazing feedback about it so far and I’m still in the process of promoting it.

What else have you been doing since we last spoke?

I’ve been super busy dealing with lawyers and contracts and possible management deals. Also a couple of months after the release of my second album I released a music video to support one of my new songs. I produced and wrote the video myself. I also did most of the behind the scenes work for the video such as designing & building the sets and putting together my wardrobe. It was a lot of work and a very stressful experience. I had to go through many animators and editors to find the right ones to collaborate with. In the end I’m very satisfied with the results.

Are you planning a third album?

I still have hundreds of songs in my soul that have yet to be recorded & produced… so most definitely.

Who would you describe as your musical influences and why?

Well since my first love of music is in Classical and Opera, I would have to say the core of my music is influenced by Mozart and Puccini. Any other influences would have to be subconscious because I don’t purposely try to sound like anyone or be like anyone else.

What do you consider are the best and worst things about the music industry?

The music industry on the whole is very volatile. I’m not sure whether I love it or hate it. The internet has been the main cause for the drastic changes we’ve seen over the years in this industry and can be the best and the worst thing for an indie artist such as myself. I do know that I love making music, it is the fuel of my soul.

What is your favorite song of all time?

Madama Butterfly by Puccini

Who would you choose to collaborate writing a song with if you could chose anyone?

That’s a tough one. I love many artists and all sorts of genres of music. I might want to work with a style that’s very different than my own, so that there is a cool and unique merging of worlds like with Eminem. Or, I might want to collaborate with someone who I admire like Madonna. I think it might be fun to work with Marilyn Manson or even the Beastie Boys to create a bizarre concoction. But hands down, it would’ve been awesome to meld musical minds with John Lennon.

It is clear that music means everything to you, but if you weren’t a musician what would you be?

Dead!

I watched the video that accompanies your song “X’d My Mind.” How long did it take to make?

It took about 6 months from the start of the idea to when it was up and playing on YouTube. It took me about a month and a half months to prepare the sets and collect all the wardrobe and props, some of which I made myself. I also kept running into bad luck with some incompetent animators and editors, who wasted a couple of months of my time as well. The actual shooting took only 4 days and when the work actually began for the editing that only took one and a half weeks. The animation took about 2 weeks. The rest of the time was just other people screwing me around.

There are many songs and artists that I am very sure that everyone would be shocked about.

What song or artist would someone be surprised to find on your MP3 player?

I just quickly looked through my digital library of songs and couldn’t help but laugh. There are many songs and artists that I am very sure that everyone would be shocked about. I have everything from the expected electronica, alternative, gothic and punk rock, to the unexpected classical, country, hip hop, jazz and folk. Tibetan Buddhism Ritual Orchestra & Chants – that’s the one I’m picking to be the least expected in my collection.

Lets move away from music for a moment and talk about you. What one word would you use to describe yourself?

Enigma

What is the one thing that people would be most surprised to find out about you?

Haha there are many things about me that I’m sure would surprise people. I was an honour student for all my high school years. I was accepted into every University I applied for but turned them all down and decided to focus on the arts. Music was something I never studied in school; everything I learned was self-taught. I am a loner and don’t have many friends, but I prefer it that way I love being by myself.

What is the worst job you have had?

I guess every job has had their good and bad moments. I usually tended towards fields that I enjoyed, so there was always something that I liked, especially whatever I learned. When I was a teenager I worked in a kitchen preparing Tex/Mex cuisine, it was non-stop work and hot and dirty and the sous chef yelled at me all the time. He even threw a knife at me once because I refused to handle any meat. However, I did learn a lot of great things about cooking and now make one of the best vegan Caesar dressings ever.

Are you a Mac or PC?

I wrote & produced my songs on a PC but mixed and mastered them on a Mac.

If your home was on fire, what one item (excluding family, pets and photos) would you grab as you left?

My external hard drives which contain all my music and video files…. and writings and poetry and song ideas… my soul basically.

What was the name of the last book you read or are currently reading?

I finished “Conversations with the Devil” by Jeff Rovin a couple months ago. It was a good read for fiction. I am currently reading “A War of Witches” By Timothy J.Knab, which is actually non-fictional writings on the research and travels of the author.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

Right now, it would be my location. I want to live in L.A. The music industry there is better suited for me. Toronto’s music scene is too conservative.

What are your plans for 2011 and going forward?

This year I plan on orchestrating a great live act and doing some live shows. I will also devote some effort into moving to L.A.

That sounds really interesting. Where are you planning on doing your shows?

I haven’t really thought all that through as yet since I do wish to move to L.A. but as I am still in Toronto at the moment, I guess I would have some shows here and maybe some neighboring cities.

And finally, if you had to be remembered for one thing. What would it be?

My words

Thank you Moonlyn, we really appreciate your candid answers and wish you lots of luck with your current album and future plans.

Thank you so much for your interest in me and for taking the time to interview me.

Find out more about Moonlyn via the following links:

Catch up on our original interview conducted during 2009.

Moonlyn has her own website at www.moonlyn.com, or you can check her out at:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/moonlynmusic

MySpace: www.myspace.com/moonlynmusic

Twitter: www.twitter.com/moonlynmusic

“It just goes to show you how truly resilient children are. I came to Canada at such a young age that the only hurdle for me was to practice my French. Once I learned to speak fluently that was it — I was Canadian — no different than my friends.”

Micheline and her family settled in Montreal North where there was already a small Haitian community. “My family chose Canada because of its reputation for having a culture of acceptance and welcoming towards immigrants.”

For Micheline, life has taken her from Haiti to Canada and back

One of the things that surprises her the most is how ethnically and culturally diverse Canada is. She has friends from all kinds of backgrounds and cultures. When you ask someone why they came to Canada they always give the same response: “They all left home because something was missing, whether it was peace, security, opportunity — and they all found what was missing in Canada,” she says.

Micheline’s ties to Montreal North and its diverse community are what motivated her to join the Montreal Police Service. She felt that her heart was in the police force serving the public. She was particularly drawn by how close the service works with the cultural communities in the area. “I had lived there my whole life. It was my community and I felt a special bond to it.”

In the Fall of 2009 Micheline was selected to participate in the RCMP’s International Peace Operation Program, where Canadian civilian police are deployed to Haiti to act as advisors to the Haitian National Police. Her mission was from October 21, 2009, to July 21, 2010.

When she arrived, she was first tasked with providing introduction training to the police staff coming from around the world that were participating in the Haiti mission. Then the earthquake hit….

Every time Micheline thinks back to that fateful day it’s hard for her to hold back the tears. “The devastation was unbelievable, unimaginable,” she says. “You never forget where you were when you experience something like that. It may have lasted a few minutes but it felt like an eternity.”

Micheline’s first memory , after the shock of what happened finally settled a little, is of the bond she felt between Canadians. “It was truly moving,” she says. “The first instinct we all had was to assemble together. We would go looking for a fellow Canadian in our camp, and as soon as they were located and joined the group, we moved on to locate the next fellow Canadian still not accounted for.”

In the first few days following the earthquake Micheline helped out as an interpreter in one of the emergency clinics. Her ability to speak French, English and Creole was a huge asset during this period of crisis. She would inform the patients of the treatment they were receiving and would also use her police skills to collect information on where they came from and if they had any missing relatives.

Following this, Micheline worked in the camps, helping to set up communal police stations. She describes the work as being very gratifying. Micheline’s work was so instrumental that she was invited to speak as a representative at the United Nations Stabilization Mission (MINUSTAH) conference in New York.

“What was paramount to me in participating in this mission was to use the advantages I had gained through my life in Canada and be able to give back, and especially to my native country. I wanted to make a difference, and being there at that time, allowed me to make a difference — that’s what the mission meant to me. My life came full circle — it was a wonderful feeling.”

“I was diagnosed by the head of the MS clinic at St. Micheals, Dr Paul O’conner. My family was very dismayed and did not know how else to react or help. I was alone with this. My response…wow, then what do I do to make this better?”

Like Maria, Steve’s symptoms over the years have been severe and debilitating. “I have suffered from severe fatigue, numbness in my left hand rendering it useless and my left leg and foot have not been receiving signals from my brain causing foot drop. I lost control of my bladder and suffered from sexual disfunction.”

Steve is now in the process of setting up The CCSVI Foundation

Steve’s symptoms became so severe that he had to live in assisted housing funded by the government. The agency behind the housing: Simcoe County Association for the Physically Disabled provide professional carers and Steve relied on them for many of his daily needs.

“They would come to my home three times a day to help me with breakfast and get me off to work in the morning, then help later in the day when my fatigue set in to help with supper. In the evening they would help me shower as I could not have carried out this task without falling if they were not around.

“The help they gave me was enormous and I cannot thank them enough. With them helping me I was able to still go to work and support myself and retain some of the dignity that MS stole from me.”

Steve was on many medications for his MS, but fortunately his group plan covered most of the expense. He says that without this he would have had to pay in the region of $3,000 per month for his medication.

“When I first heard of CCSVI it made sense and I wanted to know where I could get the treatment in Canada. I took the protocols to my doctor and told her I needed a doppler test. She booked this with Dr McDonald.

“On January 29th I received my CCSVI procedure at the The Royal Victoria Hospital, Barrie. It was done by Dr Guest and I was the second person to receive the procedure in Canada. The cost to me was nothing.”

Steve had angioplasty which took about 45 minutes and even whilst still on the operating table he got back the use of his left hand. He could also wiggle his toes and lift his left leg.

“Within days I had no more fatigue, but it took a little longer for some of the other symptoms to improve. My bladder took around seven months to repair itself as did the blood flow to my left foot. Now I have no MS symptoms and only have a few mobility problems from the CCSVI damage. I walk with a cane as my electric wheelchair gathers dust in the corner.

“I am slowly getting stronger and have started physiotherapy to regain some of the movement that CCSVI robbed me of.

“When I decided to have this treatment my aim was simply to stop the progression of MS. The fact that my symptoms have actually disappeared is truly a blessing and I cannot praise the doctors enough for giving me back my dignity and my life.”

Steve is very angry towards the MS Society and the government for not allowing CCSVI treatment to be performed in Canada. He says it is inhumane and unintelligent for them to be dragging their feet over this issue. He has this message for them.

“Even after 40 plus years of going down the wrong path it is never too late to do the right thing. Bury your pride, greed and ego and do the right thing. Stop allowing people to suffer and die and give them the simple angioplasty they need and desire. Discrimination is ugly in any form, when death and disability are involved it is nothing short of criminal.”

Latest News About Steve:

Steve is now in the process of setting up The CCSVI Foundation whose mandate is to help people get the angioplasty treatment they need. Many MS patients cannot afford the procedure or travel expenses associated with it. The sole purpose of the CCSVI Foundation is to financially help those who wish to have this treatment. It will also help those who have any questions about where, who and when to go. Also any information on the procedure or questions they may have about anything to do with CCSVI.

There will be very little overhead and anyone connected with the organization works on a volunteer basis. All donations will be used in the pursuit of saving lives and restoring quality of life.

More Stories from real people:

Yvonne Andersen from Truro, Nova Scotia is 52 and since being liberated herself is campaigning vigorously for the right of all Canadian MS’ers to receive the treatment here at home. Read about her MS journey here.

Maria Dekleer was first diagnosed with MS in 1991 when she was just 29 years old, married with two young children. She is now 49 and lives in Carlsbad Springs near Ottawa, Ontario. Read about how CCSVI treatment changed her life

Read more real life stories about MS and CCSVI treatments

“My first symptom started in January 2000. I had an extreme bout of vertigo that was misdiagnosed as an inner ear infection. I was dizzy for three weeks and spent my days holding walls to get around the apartment that I was living in.” she recalls, “After those 3 weeks the severity of the vertigo went away, but I always felt as though something wasn’t quite right. I felt like I was in a world where everything was moving around me and I was just there or I was stumbling to get out of the way all the time. I had days that I was okay, but when I was tired it seemed to be worse.

“In June 2003 I developed a numb area on my torso. My family doctor told me that he felt that I had MS. Not knowing anything about MS, I immediately started to do the research. Eight months later, February 2004, I had an appointment with the neurologist and by that time I was very concerned. The neurologist told me that he would schedule an MRI to determine whether or not I had MS, but he also wanted to test me for other things such as Lupus, Rheumetory Arthritis and Lyme disease.

Yvonne Andersen from Truro, Nova Scotia is 52 and since being liberated herself is campaigning vigorously for the right of all Canadian MS’ers

“I had the MRI in February but was not scheduled to see the neurologist until August for the results. In the meantime my husband had become very ill and was diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma. Ten weeks later on July 11, 2004 he died. Two months after that I had another attack that caused severe pain in my torso, known as the MS hug. I was given IV steroids for 5 days to reduce the inflammation that the neurologist felt was causing the pain. (Stress causes MS attacks, and my grief and the stress of losing my husband brought on this attack).

“In August 2004 I went for the results of my MRI and was told that although I had previously had 2 attacks, (vertigo, MS hug), I did not have the required 9 lesions for a diagnosis of MS. I was given a prescription for pain meds and told to come back the next year for a follow up appointment.

“In October 2007, I was driving home in the rain one night and my vision suddenly went blurred and doubled. I phoned my doctor the next day and he phoned my neurologist. I was again put on IV steroids, but for 3 days this time. The vision mostly cleared up and I was scheduled for another MRI. In March 2008 the results still did not give me a confirmed diagnosis because I only had 7 lesions. At this point, my neurologist was certain that I had MS and he suggested that I have a Spinal Tap which would give us conclusive results and a diagnosis. I agreed and was then diagnosed in April 2008 with Relapsing Remitting MS.

“At that point my family knew that an eventual diagnosis was coming and I feel that they were fairly prepared for it. I have to mention that my family is also quite a distance away from where I live so they did not see me on a regular basis.

“I had begun dating in January 2007 and was worried about the pressure that I would be putting on my now live in boyfriend when the inevitable happened and I was in a wheelchair or worse as my MS progressed. I gave him the choice to leave when I got the diagnosis and he asked me if I would leave him if he was ill. The answer to that question was easy for me as I realized that it was also easy for him regarding me.”

Like other MS’ers Yvonne’s range of symptoms was extensive: Lack of balance, foot drop, MS hug, spasms, hearing difficulties, numbness, spasticity, cramping, weakness, cold hands and feet, intense itching, memory issues, cog fog, fatigue, tremors, blurred vision – the list goes on.

“I was working as an employment counselor for persons with disabilities for 13 months and in January 2010 I had to resign from that position after realizing that I could no longer function at work without falling asleep or drinking 2-3 pots of coffee per day to function enough to make it through the day. I realized that I was not doing the clients justice and I was not able to concentrate on my job because of fatigue and pain.”

During the short time between her diagnosis and her liberation Yvonne estimates that her medications have cost in the region of $46,000.

“I am very fortunate in the fact that Nova Scotia will pay for the injectable medications for MS. My pain medications which I had been taking for over five years were $325.00 per month which I had to pay for myself.

“When I first heard of CCSVI, the theory made sense to me. I was excited that something as simple as angioplasty could possibly help with my fatigue, my pain and my vertigo. I cried with relief that there was a possibility to help with my quality of life and to make me feel better.”

Yvonne, like many others in her position then embarked on research. “I searched for the names of people who I had heard about who had gone to Poland for the procedure and found a few on Facebook. I had started with just family and friends on my Facebook and within 4 months I had developed a community of MS’ers totaling over 500 who either were interested in the procedure or who had already had it done. I followed closely the improvements of those who had the procedure and what they were experiencing and decided to have the treatment myself..”

Yvonne travelled to New York state to have her treatment at a cost of over $8,000 including air fair, hotels etc. This cost was covered by fundraising, something she was acutely aware of when embarking on this journey.

“I had many people help me with fundraising to be able to go for the procedure so my anxiety level was quite high because I was nervous about disappointing those people if I did not have improvements with my MS symptoms. For myself I only wanted to stop the progression that I knew was happening within my body for the past year and I hoped that the pain that I experienced with my MS would diminish to a tolerable level without the use of the pain meds that caused so many side effects.”

So what was the result of the treatment for Yvonne?

“I have been totally overwhelmed with the results of the CCSVI treatment on my symptoms. I have seen improvement in all of my symptoms with the greatest improvement being my cognitive problems such as word searching, memory recall and concentration. Also in the greatest improvement list would be the extreme fatigue that I experienced before the procedure. I had been sleeping 16 hours a day because of the fatigue and am now awake and active 16 hours a day. This has greatly improved my quality of life. My balance is much better than what it was before and my drop foot is gone. One of the symptoms that I wanted to be gone totally is not. The pain in my torso that I was experiencing before angioplasty is still there. But, the degree of that pain is so much less that I am only using Tylenol twice a day instead of the very expensive drugs given to me by my neurologist. These drugs only kept the pain at bay on the good days  On the bad days they did nothing. The MS hug is also gone.

Yvonne continues, “I am extremely pleased that I had the angioplasty procedure. For weeks after the procedure I was so emotional as I discovered on a daily basis things that I had never thought of before that I was now able to do. When I realized I was able to stand up in the shower to shave my legs, I was thrilled! I am able to shoulder check when driving without getting dizzy. I am able to walk through a grocery store without using a shopping cart for balance. I can ride my bicycle which is is something I haven’t been able to do for at least five years.”

Because yvonne is so active in campaigning for fellow MS’ers we had to ask her what she felt the Canadian government and the MS Society should be doing regarding offering Canadians the opportunity to have this treatment.

“At the beginning of the CCSVI issue I understood the Canadian government being cautious and wanting studies to be done. I assumed that those studies would include doing the actual procedure and following the patients for a period of time. I also assumed that the Canadian MS Society would “want” to help MS’ers. I also assumed that neurologists would want to help and would jump right on this to give us the very best in treatment. I was so very disappointed when I realized that the MS Society would start in the foot dragging, the neurologists followed and then the Canadian government was right on board with both of them. It makes one wonder who has a hold on whom? Is it the pharmaceuticals that have the biggest hold on all of the above? If that is the case then who is allowing that to happen?

“Are neurologists and the MS Society that far indebted to the pharmaceutical companies for their enriched way of life? Shouldn’t the neurologists and the MS Society be fighting for a cure? Isn’t that the new slogan for the MS Society? EndMS………

“The MS Society no longer represents me and no longer represents the thousands of MS’ers who have gone against their advice and have had this procedure done. We, the thousands who have had the procedure know that it will give us our quality of life back. The MS Society and our government need to find us, contact us and listen to our stories. They need to hear what this procedure has given back to us in our lives. They need to listen to our family and friends and hear what differences they, the people who see us every day, see in us.”

Yvonne Andersen CCSVI Press Conference Video – Nov 2nd 2010:

Read how CCSVI has changed the life of Maria Dekleer from Carlsbad Springs near Ottawa

Checkout more stories about CCSVI treatments from people who have been liberated

Steve Garvie is now in the process of setting up The CCSVI Foundation whose mandate is to help people get the angioplasty treatment they need – Read Steve’s story here

“The first symptoms I noticed were tightness and numbness in my leg. Although this bothered me, I did not seek medical attention until that numbness and tightness reached up to my head, then progressed all over my body.”

Maria went to the hospital where she underwent tests including a spinal tap and MRI which confirmed she had multiple sclerosis.

“I went from being perfectly healthy to having a chronic and incurable illness in a matter of days.” she remembers. “I think to sum up how I felt would be shocked, devastated and very scared. The rest of the family felt the same but were very supportive of me.”

Maria Dekleer was first diagnosed with MS in 1991

Over the next few years Maria suffered many of the symptoms associated with MS. The list is extensive: spasticity, bladder and bowel issues, fatigue, tinnitus, pins and needles in hands, left hand not working, left leg practically paralyzed, left side weaker than right, left leg stone cold and white, hands and feet cold, could not move toes on left foot and had foot drop (wear a brace) cogfog, attention deficit disorder (ADD), depression, no balance, heat and cold intolerance, up every hour at night either from spasms or bladder trouble, burning sensation in feet, ms hug, stiff neck and shoulder, blood shot eyes and blurry vision, could not yawn, cough or take a proper deep breath, two seizures in the last 10 years. She also suffered L’Hermittes sign which is a electrical sensation running down the back and into the limbs.

Her symptoms were so debilitating she had to use a walker to get around her home and a wheelchair or scooter when out and about.

“When I first heard about CCSVI it made perfect sense to me. It was the first good news I had heard in 20 years. I immediately started searching on the internet for information and spent months researching, connecting with other MSers on Facebook and other sites and researching doctors able to perform the treatment.

Maria ended up getting her CCSVI treatment in New York state on July 26th 2010. “I had venogram and angioplasty and it cost me $5000 US. Fortunately I did not need stents which would have increased the cost.”

The treatment lasted around 90 minutes. Maria was given a valium to relax her and a local anesthetic in her groin area.

“I was alert and happy during the procedure,” says Maria, “they played music and chatted with me the whole time. There was no pain, just a little pressure when the doctor ballooned the three areas.

“Twenty minutes after the treatment I was eating a Snickers bar and chatting on Facebook.” she laughs.

For two hours after treatment she had to remain still which she confesses was hard as she felt energetic and warm, which was unusual for her to say the least. “I was suddenly able to move my left foot which was something I had not been able to do for over ten years.”

During the weeks following treatment Maria did improve, slowly but steadily and over the last few weeks she has got better and better.

“I can now stand up straight, hug my kids and can cook using both hands. I can use a knife and fork, tie my own shoelaces, ride my exercise bike, peddling with both legs and can lift weights.”

Some things that the rest of us take for granted such as yawning, coughing, breathing, sleeping soundly are all new experiences for Maria.

“The cogfog is gone, the fatigue is gone, the depression is gone, the ADD is gone and I have much better control of my bladder and bowel. The stiffness in my neck and shoulders is gone, the L’Hermittes and tinnitus is gone. Also my left side is now as strong as my right and my vision is clear with no burning sensations in my eyes. My tolerance of heat and cold is also much better.”

Maria still uses a walker, however her husband had to buy her a new heavier model as she was too strong and rough for the old one. For extended shopping trips she uses her scooter as it is more convenient but says of her wheelchair “Nah, that’s for sick people.”

“I have energy” she says full of emotion. “I am improving little by little and all this in just a few weeks. I am still amazed at how well I feel – I finally have my life back.”

Read how Yvonne Anderson from Truro Nova Scotia is campaigning vigorously for the rights of all Canadians

Read more real life stories about MS and CCSVI treatments

Steve Garvie is now in the process of setting up The CCSVI Foundation whose mandate is to help people get the angioplasty treatment they need – Read Steve’s story 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

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.