CLARKSON’S
CORNERS Vol u m e 0 4 • Is s u e 03 • Winter 2 0 1 2
www.clarksonbia.com
IN TH IS IS S UE Changing the face of men’s health! 04 Travel Planning
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Michael’s Back Door
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Community Corner
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Championship Hockey is coming 09 Bells are ringing at the MSO!
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Year-end Tax Tips
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Twas the Bite Before Christmas 12
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The Ultimate Great Escape
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Are We Spiritual Creatures?
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Engage in Clarkson Village this Holiday Season
By Lindsay Howe
The Ambiance of the Village Residents and merchants of Clarkson are blessed to be apart of such a beautiful, and inviting village. During these busy months of the year we look forward to the arrival of the holidays because it gives us an opportunity to relax, reflect and spend quality time with our loved ones. A leisurely stroll through the village is a revitalizing experience, particularly in the crisp winter weather, amidst the streets glistening with snow. Walking down Lakeshore Road West, you cannot help but admire the beautifully decorated store windows, and verandas. The experience fills you with the joyful spirit of the season. Clarkson village has everything you are looking for; there is something for everyone, both young and old. Clarkson is home to a variety of pubs, bars, restaurants, coffee houses, butchers and bakeries. With every shop, restaurant and service available in the immediate vicinity, why not try to embrace everything the village has to offer?
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER
The Most Successful Sign in Mississauga!
Brokerage
CLARKSON | LORNE PARK 1697 Lakeshore Road West CLARKSON 905-855-2200
PORT CREDIT 125 Lakeshore Road East PORT CREDIT 905-278-3500
Enriching our Bodies, Minds and Souls Now that you’ve set your new years resolutions, it is time to put them into action! Clarkson has amenities to satisfy your resolutions. For those who set out to accomplish fitness goals for example, take on a challenge at Power Yoga Canada in the village. Boost your fitness, longevity and improve your balance. continued on page 5
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Changing the face of men’s health! It was Movember! Movember was dedicated to growing moustaches and raising awareness and funds for men’s health. My friends and I joined the movement and grew mustaches for the cause for the month of November. We generated laughs and lots of jokes. Kidding aside, raising awareness of men’s health issues is very important. I ask all men to please follow these few simple, yet crucial rules: HAVE AN ANNUAL PHYSICAL. Find a doctor and make a yearly appointment each Movember for a general health check. Getting annual check-ups, preventative screening tests, and immunizations are among the most important things you can do to stay healthy.
The New Clarkson’s Corners Clarkson’s Community Newspaper Volume 04 | Issue 04
For advertising information, please contact Toby Gardiner at 416-875-1409 or by e-mail at toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com www.rjentpub.com
DON’T SMOKE! If you do smoke, stop! Compared to non-smokers, men who smoke are about 23 times more likely to develop lung cancer. Smoking is responsible for about 90% of deaths for men due to lung cancer. BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. If you are not already doing some form of exercise, start small and work up to a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. Set realistic goals and push yourself to stay active on a consistent basis.
Editorial Contributors: Julie Knox, Lindsay Howe and Emma Cosgrove
EAT A HEART HEALTHY DIET. Fill up with fruits, vegetables, whole grains; include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts; and eat foods that are low in saturated fats, trans-fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars. STAY AT A HEALTHY WEIGHT. Balance calories from foods and beverages with calories you burn off by physical activities. It is better to eat small meals throughout the day rather than a couple large portioned meals, which will leave you hungrier between mealtimes and more likely to binge eat. MANAGE YOUR STRESS. Chill out! Stress, particularly long-term stress, can be the factor in the onset or worsening of poor health. Managing your stress is essential to your health & well being and should be practiced daily. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.
Clarkson’s Corners is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.
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Engage in Clarkson Village this Holiday Season continued from front cover www.clarksonbia.com
Pamper Yourself
If you are more of the outdoorsy and adventurous type, or simply looking for a scenic nature trail or conservation area to journey through, visit Clarkson’s wondrous parks and trails. Beat the winter blues and enjoy the quietude, the invigorating cold air, and take in the beautifully rugged landscape. Clarkson Waterfront Trail is a long winding asphalt nature path, stretching past 22 parks, the Bradley Museum and Rattray Marsh. Rattray Marsh is open all year round, and is a particularly scenic route this time of year. Take a stroll along Clarkson Waterfront Trail to take pleasure in and enjoy the winter wonderland that surrounds you.
During this busy time of year, we sometimes forget to give ourselves a little TLC. This holiday season visit one of Clarkson’s hair salons or spas and give yourself some much needed pampering. A therapeutic trip to the spa is just what you need to relax, and look and feel your best. Treat yourself or a friend to a manicure and pedicure at your local nail salon. Visit the salon for a stylish new haircut, color or style this winter season. Leave the daily stresses of your life at home for a day, visit a salon or spa in the village to relax, unwind, and leave feeling rejuvenated.
Visiting an art gallery is a great way to spent quality time with friends and family, and take pleasure in this shared learning experience. Harbour Gallery in Clarkson is one of the largest fine art galleries in the GTA. Harbour Gallery exhibits the contemporary art of established and emerging artist. Visit Harbour Gallery to experience their fine collection of artwork from abstract to traditional.
Take the time to engage in Clarkson this holiday season and discover that everything you could possible need, or want is right within the comfort of your own neighbourhood! For more information visit www.clarksonbia.com .
Wining and Dining Clarkson offers exciting entertainment and delicious food venues. Whether you are looking for a quick bite, or a more elegant fine dining experience, the village has an array of restaurants that will satisfy your taste buds. Clarkson offers many unique dining locations, pubs and cafes. The bars and pubs in Clarkson are known for their savory food and lively atmosphere. Catch a sporting event at The Clarkson Pump & Patio and enjoy tasty pub food. For an upscale yet casual fine dining experience, visit Solstice Restaurant and Wine Bar, or the Michael’s Back Door to sample their delicious food, and experience their great atmosphere and service. Taste of Clarkson will run from January 14th – February 9th 2013. A fabulous three course dinner is available for only $29.95. Lunch is $21.95 for three courses and $16.95 for two courses. Visit www.tasteofclarkson.com for details. Call ahead to your favourite restaurant or pub to reserve your corporate holiday party or social event.
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Let’s get planning… By Cheryl Chadwick of Chadwick’s Travel
As we approach Christmas and the end of 2012, our thoughts are mixed with fond memories of travels taken and the itch to start planning for the next adventure. With leisure time at a premium in all of our lives, it’s most important to find the right match for your needs and wants.
Whether it is mom, dad and kids or grandparents, children and grandchildren, amenities and activities are designed to help create unforgettable memories and plant the seed for a lifelong love of exploration. Up Close Animal Adventures in Africa, Horseback Riding on the beach in Chile or Kayaking in the Galapagos are but a few choices for youngsters or the young at heart.
Every year, we dedicate our time to help you in your quest for vacation destinations, new or familiar and offer our recommendations for the optimum holiday experience. Having established strong working relationships with a variety of travel suppliers, we pride ourselves on being able to offer the best value and exclusive amenities. We not only book your air and hotel but can also add a limo transfer both at home or at destination, make spa appointments ahead of time, dinner reservations, tee times, day tours and other options to help reduce the time spent planning while on vacation and maximize time spent enjoying your vacation. Need adjoining rooms confirmed before you arrive at check in? We have travel partners, like Island Destinations who have a designated concierge desk that can guarantee that peace of mind. Choose from a variety of deluxe and luxury resorts or villas in Asia, Middle East, Maldives, Seychelles, Caribbean/ Mexico, and the South Pacific. Island Destinations offers outstanding value and go that extra mile to help make your vacation a memorable, quality experience.
Bruce and I would like to thank you for your support and business over this past year. We wish you, our friends and clients and your families a Happy Christmas and a Merry New Year and look forward to seeing you soon to start planning 2013 travels. Chadwick’s Travel is located at 1720 Lakeshore Rd., W. in Clarkson. Phone 905 823-6341 or email cheryl@chadwickstravel.ca .
Another one of our key travel partners is Ker & Downey. They know it isn’t always easy trying to pick your next vacation spot right off the map so they have narrowed down some categories of trips designed to make finding the perfect adventure a little easier. With Ker & Downey, itineraries are only suggestions and they encourage you to make it your own by customizing it however you choose. Check out their web site and expand on Classic Journeys, Active/Adventure, Culinary or Cultural itineraries or their Multi-Generational and Favorite Family Experiences. Making luxury travel a family affair has never been easier.
2012-2013
Bells are Ringing! Saturday December 15 @ 4pm Hammerson Hall, Living Arts Centre Bring a Family of 4 for just $80! Single Tickets only $48-$62 Discounts for Seniors/Students
Driving in a winter wonderland.
Matthew Jones Conductor Sponsored by:
905.306.6000 LivingArtsCentre.ca Free underground parking!
Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday.
No applause please! Just clang, bong or jingle your approval at “Bells Are Ringing!”, the MSO’s annual Christmas concert for the whole family. All out of bells? For just a toonie you can buy bells at the concert. The afternoon performance will feature the Long & McQuade Instrument Petting Zoo (fun for children of all ages!) and the annual craft sale of works by our multi-talented musicians. Family pricing is available for this once a year tradition. Last year sold out so get your tickets early! Join the MSO for an afternoon of music and fun!
Get to a better State™.
Alice R Fahey Ins Agcy Inc Alice Fahey, Agent 1715 Lakeshore Rd W Unit 103 Mississauga, ON L5J 1J4 Bus: 905-403-1500
MississaugaSymphony.ca 1201862CN
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State Farm, Canadian Head Office, Aurora, Ontario
Michael’s Back Door put on a brave new face www.clarksonbia.com
For the month of November, inspired by friends stricken with prostate cancer, the gentlemen at Michael’s Back Door grew mustaches in an effort to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer research. The restaurant created a special Movember Menu with proceeds going to prostate cancer research. The response was very positive with over $4000 raised, and all that participated have agreed they had fun growing the moustaches. The month long event was capped off by a special evening on November 30th. The restaurant was completely full and Frank from neighbouring Linea Hair Salon offered up complimentary shaves. Over the years, Michael’s Back Door has always found a way to give back to the community. On Sunday, January 13th from noon – 4 pm, Michael’s Back Door Restaurant, in association with the Hockey Hall of Fame, will present the fourth annual “The Art of Hockey”. This will be an afternoon that will showcase of artists, artistry and trophies reflecting the last 100 years of hockey. The restaurant will be converted into a small art gallery. “If you’re a hockey fan, you must attend ‘The Art of Hockey’,” states Mario Della-Savia, general manager of Michael’s Back Door. “This is an unbelievable and rare opportunity.” The cost is $20 per adult and $12 for children under 12 years of age. Included with admission is lunch from a carving or pasta station. All proceeds will go to a local charity. In another fundraising event, the 28th annual Michael’s Back Door Golf Tournament was held at the Lionhead Golf Club in Brampton. The staff, customers, friends and families raised $5143.00 for the Mississauga Foodbank. The popular event, Taste of Clarkson will run from January 14th – February 9th 2013. A fabulous three course dinner is available for only $29.95. Lunch is $21.95 for three courses and $16.95 for two courses. Make your reservations now. Michael’s Back Door is located at 1715 Lakeshore Road West. For more information and to reserve a table, call 905-822-5751 or visit www.michaelsbackdoor.com.
Beside you all the way. Just like real neighbours.
Our name is Meridian, and things are a little different here. For starters when you bank with us you’ll be a Member not a client number. We offer everything you need like savings and chequing accounts, mortgages, and investments that include higher - rate GICs, loans and business accounts.
What else is different about Meridian? We’ll help you get where you want to go with products that are right for you, not our bottom line. And on that front, did we mention that our profits are reinvested in the local community? That’s what we mean by neighbourhood banking.
For more of not the same, visit your local branch or meridiancu.ca
Clarkson Branch | 970 Southdown Rd. | 905-855-0951
™Trademarks of Meridian Credit Union Limited
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COMMUNITY CORNER Indian Cuisine By The Lake A big part of south Mississauga for over 26 years, the Danny Sahdra and his family, would like to introduce Indian Cuisine by the Lake. Diners can enjoy authentic and fresh Indian cuisine as either dine-in or takeout. Check out their all-day lunch/dinner buffet or order off the a la carte menu. The restaurant offers classic favourites such as butter chicken, paneer tikka masala, curries and much more.
Clarkson Halloween Fun Fest By J.Knox On Saturday, October 27th the Clarkson Village BIA and businesses along Lakeshore Road from Meadow Wood Rd. to Southdown Rd., played host to goblins, ghouls, fairies and princesses, young and old, who were making their early rounds collecting goodies in celebration of everybody’s favorite spooky holiday, Halloween. In between participating businesses along Lakeshore, various entertainment stations offered face painting, magicians, balloon artists and giveaways and bouncy castles. Despite the rainy weather all day long, families were out in cheery numbers to enjoy the Halloween Fun Fest.
They are located at 56A Lakeshore Rd. E. in Port Credit. Call 905-891-3333 or visit www.indiancuisinebythelake.com .
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Lorne Park Hockey to host Provincial Championship
Full Circle touches down March 28th www.clarksonbia.com
The Ontario Hockey Federation has awarded the Lorne Park Hockey Association and their Ojibwa Midget Senior A Hockey Club rights to host the Midget A Provincial Championship Tournament held from April 11th to April 14th, 2013. All games will be played at the renovated, state of the art Vic Johnston Community Centre.
While many are gearing up for the holiday season, organizers of Full Circle are already wrapping up plans to provide another summer of fun. Brenda Molson, who, along with Denise Drysdale co-chairs Full Circle, a benefit in support of the Mississauga Waterfront Festival (MWF), says plans for the 10th annual fundraising Full Circle dinner are well underway.
The Lorne Park Midget Senior A hockey club is honoured and extremely excited to host this great hockey event. Head Coach Tony DiClemente states” Our team is thrilled that we have earned the right to host this event. The boys have worked hard over the years, have the record to show for it and we are looking forward to being a great host and to competing for the championship.”
“Full Circle is a terrific opportunity to raise awareness of the need in our community,” said Molson, adding that the event, “also provides an opportunity to listen to the inspiring words of speakers who have overcome overwhelming challenges in their own lives.”
This will be the first time Lorne Park Hockey Association has hosted the Provincial Championships for any age group. The organization is extremely excited for the championship weekend. “This is our first time hosting a provincial championship. The Lorne Park Hockey Association fully supports the midget senior hockey club in running this event and their quest for the Provincial Championship” said Mike Doyle, President Lorne Park Hockey Association.
In celebration of Full Circle’s 10th anniversary, organizers have made a break from the traditional female-oriented speakers’ list in honour of motivational speaker and all-round nice guy, Michael ‘Pinball’ Clemons. Clemons, whose dazzling smile is as renowned as his motivational speeches and play on the field, is the celebrated former Grey Cup-winning player, coach, vice-chairman and president of the Toronto Argonauts football club and one of Canadian sports’ most recognizable faces.
Lorne Park Hockey Association has a long history in minor hockey, founded in 1944. The association now has over 800 young hockey players in ages from three to twenty years old. The association has a strong reputation of giving back to the community. Most recently, for the last three years LPHA has organized a hockey game between coaches and the Leafs Alumni to generate toys and cash for the Peel Regional Police’s Toys For Tots campaign.
“We’re so happy to have such an accomplished, motivational athlete as Pinball Clemons participating in Full Circle,” said Molson. “He sets the kind of example we’re all trying to establish for the young people in our community.”
The OHF Championships take place at the conclusion of every hockey season for all the major age groups and levels during the second weekend of April. Five teams participate at the OHF Championships; the Minor Hockey Member Partner Championship teams from the Alliance, GTHL, NOHA, OMHA and the host team.
Full Circle operates as a fundraising venue for the Mississauga Waterfront Festival (MWF) which helps provide three days of complimentary rides, entertainment and snacks for disadvantaged Mississauga youths and their families. “We’re very proud that we’ve been able to provide so many children and teens, more than 35,000 of them, with an opportunity to enjoy a few days of carefree summer fun,” said Molson. “For some of the young people we support, the Mississauga Waterfront Festival is their only recreational event of the summer, sort of like a mini vacation.”
The weekend will kick off with a banquet that brings all five teams together to hear key note speaker Mark Osborne, 14 year NHL alumni and former Toronto Maple Leaf discuss his hockey career. The core of the Lorne Park Midget Senior A Hockey team has been together since rebuilding after championship seasons in Minor and Major atom. The team personifies what the minor hockey experience should be with players and parents forging strong friendships over the years and this event will be a great final chapter for the team.
“Full Circle is a great opportunity to bring together like-minded women and men from our community to help ensure the children in greatest need in our communities can enjoy all that is offered at the Mississauga Waterfront Festival.” Ward 5 Councillor Bonnie Crombie, in her first term at City Hall, will emcee the 10th anniversary Full Circle event taking place Thursday, March 28, 2013.
The roster includes: Nikil Arora, Nicholas Constandinou, Bradley Cose, Robert DiClemente, William Eddie, Joseph Fantin, Jacob Gardiner, Stefan Iwankewich, Patrick Kucharzak, Dante Labog, Zachary Louch, Nicholas Magnone, Geoffrey McCann, Conor McKenna, Fraser Molgat, Macleod Munro, Patrick Proborszcz, Alexander Sadakhom, Head Coach Tony DiClemente, Trainer Toby Gardiner, Assistant Coach Ron McKenna and Manager Charles Eddie.
The dinner will be held at Le Treport Banquet Hall, 1075 The Queensway East. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets cost $125 per person or $1,150 for a table of 10, To purchase tickets or for more information, contact the MWF offices at 905-891-0002.
Please join us on April 11th – 14th and cheer these boys on in their final minor hockey experience!
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Bells are ringing at the MSO! Christmas is almost here and “Bells Are Ringing!” thanks to our concert sponsor, Great-West Life. It’s time to dust the snow off your sleigh bells and bring the gang down to Hammerson Hall for the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra’s annual family Christmas concert at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 15th. Guest conductor Matthew Jones will be flying his sleigh down to balmy Mississauga from his home in snowy Timmins to lead the audience in rousing choruses of all your seasonal favourites. He will even accompany a few of them on his recorder! You may wish to applaud wildly, but no! jingling only, please! You may ring sleigh bells, cowbells, hand bells, even car keys – anything that jingles in time to the music. Before and after the concert you and your children can visit the popular petting zoo once again being held in the Atrium. No, we’re not talking about Rudolph and the other reindeer! This unique petting zoo features musical instruments from Long & McQuade. Their knowledgeable and helpful staff will talk to you about various instruments and let you try them. Perhaps you have always wanted to play the flute, trumpet or cello. Try it out! It is never too late to learn an instrument – in addition to playing sleigh bells, that is! Do you still need stocking stuffers and special gifts for the people on your list? In what has become another annual tradition, musicians of the Mississauga Symphony will be showcasing their other artistic talents as painters, photographers, woodworkers, jewellery makers, weavers, knitters… You can visit the Christmas market in the Atrium before and after the concert. If you don’t have your own jingle bells, you can purchase them at the door for a toonie. And don’t forget to wear your Santa hat! See you at the concert, and ho! ho! ho!
Indian Cuisine by the Lake
Last year’s concert sold out, so get your tickets now! Call the Living Arts Centre Box office at 905.306.6000 or go to www.livingartscentre.ca. Discounts for seniors, students and families.
56A Lakeshore Road East
905 891 3333
www.indiancuisinebythelake.com
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DON’T GET MALLED!
Year-end Tips to Help Reduce your Income Tax Bill
Marion Klinnert, Owner Private Moments Lingerie and Ladies Wear and Clarkson resident I used to work as a sales rep. selling to one of the big department stores. I called on 18 stores on a monthly basis, straightening up shelves and replenishing stock, doing inventory and writing orders for the product that had been sold since my previous visit.
With the year drawing to a close, it’s time to make sure you head into 2013 in as strong a financial position as possible. That means taking steps before the year ends to reduce your 2012 income tax bill. Here are five tips you may want to consider:
I also flew to the east coast, Moncton and Halifax and service two of the same chain of stores. Now, if I was really, really tired or not paying attention I couldn’t tell you where I was; in what town or for that matter, what province! The malls all looked the same. The same mix of stores, same layout, clothes, shoes and food courts. It was a good way to make a living but after eight years the “bloom was off the rose” and the job became mundane, tedious and the challenge was gone. I learned the job, customer needs, seasonal changes and economic challenges.
Complete tax-saving transactions. Many items that are deductible or qualify for tax credits must be paid before the end of the year. These include medical and child care expenses, professional dues, alimony, and donations to political parties or charities. Keep in mind that it may be advantageous to make donations of publicly-traded securities to a registered charity. In addition to the donation tax credit, there is also no capital gains tax. Trigger accrued losses before year-end. If your investment objectives have changed or the underlying fundamentals of an investment have changed, consider selling the investment and triggering a capital loss. Losses must first be used to offset gains in the current tax year, and unused losses can be applied to the past three years or to future years. Sell securities at least three business days before year-end so the transaction will settle by December 31.
Along comes 1985. I find myself in Port Credit and am one of five new business owners, relatively young and a newbie…hmmm. The economy was strong and the adage “open the doors and they will come” was our mantra. Well, it’s 27 Christmases later and things have changed. I can’t believe I’m using the line “where has the time gone?” sounding like my parents did when I was a teenager! We, you the reader and I still doing business, are older and wiser. Our lives have changed…children have grown up and grandchildren are on the scene. Time is precious. That’s where the small businesses in your local neighborhood can make a big difference. We aren’t cookie cutter businesses. We know our stuff! We’re experts. Even the people who work for us know what they are talking about! They know all about the products they are selling. They know how to say please and thank you and enjoy helping, selling and pleasing whomever they are dealing with…hmmm. A question? Do you ever walk out of a big chain store and say to yourself “well, that was a great shopping experience!” For you I hope so…because spending your hard earned money should be gratifying. Spending your hard earned money in your neighborhood provides a livelihood for all who work in the businesses and stores and it makes for a healthy local economy. The businesses can sustain good and bad times and be there for the long haul.
Consider adjusting your instalment payments. If you make quarterly payments, the final instalment is due December 15. Instalment payments are based on the previous year’s income. If your 2012 income is lower than in previous years, you might want to reduce your December 15 instalment. Contribute to a RESP. Put money into a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) before year-end to qualify for the 2012 Canada Education Savings Grant. There is no deduction for the contributions but the earnings will accumulate tax-free. Are you turning 71? If you are turning age 71 in 2012, you have until December 31 to convert your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF). If you were planning to make a final contribution to your RRSP before converting it to a RRIF, the contribution must be made by December 31. If you have unused contribution room or will continue to have earned income you can make contributions to your spouse’s RRSP after you turn 71.
Not long ago a customer asked me why I always had things the malls didn’t. Hmmm!? Lots of reasons! I’m not a cookie cutter. I pay attention to the needs and wants of my customers. Try my hardest to please! Work long hours! Volunteer in my community! Give back! I have learned a lot over the last 27 years and I am happy to say nothing is mundane or tedious! I’m still learning and listening, changing with the seasons and with your continued support will weather economic challenges…..And I have become an expert!
There may be more you can do, so speak with your tax advisor to determine actions you might want to take that are appropriate for your particular circumstances. Edward Jones, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
Since this is the last issue of the “Village” papers (for the year) I would like to wish you and yours a very happy and healthy Christmas. On behalf of Mariya and myself, a big thank you to our supporters for another great year in south Mississauga.
*Edward Jones does not provide tax or legal advice. Review your specific situation with your tax advisor and/or legal professional for information regarding, or issues concerning, the tax implications of making a particular investment or taking any other action.
PS.. I invite you to experience a small business that can make a big difference in the way you shop. Private Moments Lingerie and Ladies Wear is located at 259 Lakeshore Rd. East in Port Credit. Phone: 905-278-8055.
Chris Gordon, CFA, CFP, FMA, FCSI Financial Advisor email chris.gordon@edwardjones.com
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Recipe of the Month!
Fundraising dinner takes bite out of hunger Event pays tribute to former councillor
By Chef John Paul Angheloni Solstice Restaurant and Wine Bar Here is a different way of preparing your turkey this Christmas, especially if you don’t feel like roasting a whole turkey.
There’ll be one empty seat at the 2012 ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas fundraising dinner in December, but the missing guest will be there in spirit and memory.
Turkey Piccata Recipe serves 4-6 Ingredients: 1 fresh turkey breast 1 cup of olive oil 1 garlic clove minced ½ cup fresh lemon juice Chopped parsley ½ cup heavy cream
1 cup of seasoned flour 1 Shallot chopped finely 2 table spoons of capers 1 cup white wine 1 Stick of butter Salt and pepper
Method: Slice turkey breast into thin strips against the grain of the meat. Place pieces on a cutting board and cover with plastic. Beat the turkey into cutlets with a mallet. Heat up olive oil in a large pan (preferably stainless steel) Season turkey pieces with salt and pepper and dredge in the flour. Shake off excess flour and fry in the hot oil, about 1 minute per side and set aside on a plate. Remove oil from pan and put pan back on the stove on medium heat. Place ¼ of the butter shallots and garlic and cook for 1 minute, then capers. Add the white wine and lemon juice then reduce by half, whisk in butter and cream slowly. Put turkey cutlets back into the sauce and finish cooking about 5 minutes and adjust seasoning. Place on serving platter and sprinkle with parsley.
Organizers of the 4th annual event, which has raised more than $100,000 for local food banks over its first three years, will pay tribute to the late Carmen Corbasson, the former Ward 1 councillor who passed away suddenly last March, at the dinner December 11. “Carmen Corbasson was an extraordinary woman,” says Dan Meadowcroft, founder of the ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas initiative and a friend of Corbasson’s since their high school days. “The funds we’ve raised from the 2012 ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas dinner have been in tribute to Carmen and will support a cause that was close to her heart,” says Meadowcroft. ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas has grown exponentially since it was established as a small, grassroots effort in 2009 by Meadowcroft, with unprecedented, and unexpected, support from the community. “’Twas the Bite Before Christmas is a bit of a phenomenon,” says Meadowcroft. “The community has opened its arms and its wallets to help support our quest to ease hunger in our city. We seldom have to ask anyone for support; we just tell them our story and they all want to contribute.”
Happy Holidays!
In fact, the success of the ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas fundraising initiative has been so overwhelming that tickets to the 600-seat event were sold out this year before tickets officially went on sale. “The outpouring of support has been humbling,” says Meadowcroft. “We have a tremendously generous community.” Mississauga South MPP Charles Sousa has been supporting the fundraising efforts of the ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas event since its inception, spearheading turkey drives, dishing out mashed potatoes and stuffing at the dinner and raising thousands of dollars and in-kind donations. “I am grateful to the many volunteers who support ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas. I am especially proud of our community’s contributions, year after year,that help our local food banks,” says Sousa. “I encourage everyone to get involved so, together, we can help make this a very Merry Christmas for all children and deserving families in Mississauga.”
1801 Lakeshore Road West, Mississauga www.solsticerestaurant.ca | 905-822-1801
Organizers of the annual event, which will take place at the Oasis Convention Centre, located at 2076 Lakeshore Rd. E., Tuesday, December 11, beginning at 6 p.m., hope the 600-seat dinner will take a big bite out of hunger in Mississauga. “Mississauga has a reputation as an affluent community, a modern day land of milk and honey,” Meadowcroft says, “but we have pockets of poverty throughout our city and far too many families who regularly feel the pangs of hunger. Our aim is to fight hunger and feed hope.” “We are so thankful to the organizers of the ‘Twas The Bite Before Christmas campaign.” says Chris Hatch, executive director of The Mississauga Food Bank. “This is a difficult time of year for our hungry neighbours with the added pressure that the holidays bring. Campaigns like this not only help us raise awareness of our fight against hunger, but help us respond to it.” While fighting hunger will be the theme of the night, diners will want to leave a little room for levity. “We’re also very happy to welcome back homegrown comedian Mike Bullard, who will emcee the dinner,” says Meadowcroft, adding the event will also offer opportunities to win four tickets to a Toronto Raptors game and a ride in a stunt plane, among other prizes. All proceeds from the dinner will be donated to the Mississauga Food Bank and The Compass, which provide immediate relief to hungry families in need.
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The Ultimate Great Escape www.clarksonbia.com
Thinking of a vacation property overseas? Here are some things you’ll need to know.
you. That way, you can feel at ease knowing the advice and information you are being given is in your best interest only.
For many of us, the idea of owning a vacation property overseas is a dream we’d love to see come true. It could be a sun-drenched villa in the tropics or a quaint little cottage nestled into the countryside of France. It represents a different way of life –one that promises peace and tranquility. Whatever your dream is, I can help you navigate the complicated process of purchasing real estate in another country. I have spent a great deal of time helping clients to avoid the traps and pitfalls that often happen when buying overseas.
5. Weighing your decision Once you’ve decided that you are going to move forward with the decision to buy a vacation property overseas, it’s time to do up a very detailed list of the pros and cons. After you’ve completed your research, write every single good and bad item down that you can think of. Take time to review your list and ask friends and your realtor questions regarding items in both sections. This will help you decide whether this purchase is a good decision.
When it comes to buying real estate – you know the three “L”s – Location, Location, Location. When it comes to buying real estate overseas, you’ll want to remember the three “R’s – Research, Research, Research.
6. Getting to know the culture When you’re vacationing in another country, the local culture can seem so laid back and inviting to any traveler. However, once you engage in any sort of business abroad, you’ll quickly learn that the way business is handled can be quite different. I’ve often found that countries that appear the most laid back to a tourist are actually the most formal, paper rich and bureaucratic when it comes to process and legalities.
1. Be aware and buy with care The internet is a very handy tool for almost any kind of research. Almost. You can find a great deal of information on the destination you want or the types of property available, the internet is your friend. However, when it comes to familiarizing yourself with the location, the laws and the current market conditions that you are buying in, it’s critical that you plan to visit the country of your choice. This will give you first-hand knowledge as well as a feel for where you are buying. As with any big purchase, it’s always wise to ‘try before you buy’.
When you visit before you buy, spend some extra time to get acquainted with the people and the legal system in that country. Try to learn the language and you’ll be amazed at how your efforts will be rewarded and how differently you’ll be treated. 7. Exchange rates and currency Currency fluctuates daily so remember to check fluctuations frequently. This will help to protect you against exchange rates that could leave you short of money in the end. Make a point of going online regularly to stay on top of exchange rates. A little extra time can save you a lot of money.
2. Proceed with caution There are many things to know about purchasing property in another country so you’ll want to approach the decision with caution. Make sure you look at all of your options and closely evaluate every detail of your purchase. Ask friends and experts for advice as often as necessary. It’s important to ask a lot of questions to make sure that you are properly informed. This will help you to avoid any traps or pitfalls in the process.
8. Factor in extra costs If you plan to own vacation property overseas, build yourself a budget and decide how often you plan to travel to your property. Figure out the cost of flights and how frequently you will be visiting so you can see the full financial snapshot of your investment.
3. Find a realtor you can trust Finding a realtor that knows the area, the laws and the market conditions is a critical step to a successful purchase. Like buying a home where you live, you’ll want to find someone who is knowledgeable and trustworthy. They will help you by answering your questions, providing helpful advice and acting as your connection to lenders and lawyers who will assist you in the buying process. Finding a qualified real-estate agent is a worthy investment.
9. Do a location checklist If you are purchasing the property for your own enjoyment, you’ll want to consider doing a checklist to help you decide where to buy. Consider the following while you decide:
4. Advice you can trust Finding advice you can trust can be tricky -especially in a foreign country that you are unfamiliar with. When you decide you’re ready to seek a lawyer or any legal advice, a good rule of thumb is to select someone that is independent of anyone else involved in the transaction. Make sure that they will only represent
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Do you prefer a place in tow n or the country? Do you prefer inland or coast? Do you want to be isolated or right in the heart of it? If you want isolation – how far of a travel time to the closest town? How much outdoor space do you want? How close do you want to be to your neighbours? How close do you want to be to amenities like shopping and dining? What’s the nearest public transportation? How often does it run and what time does it end? How far is the beach or water? How close is the nearest airport or train station? How far is it to sports facilities like golf, tennis, etc.? How good are the local health and social services? What’s available for arts and entertainment in the area? How close is the nearest hospital?
10. The final and best step Now that you’ve done all of your research and a full analysis of the country, the people, the process and the costs, you can rest happily with your exciting decision and can now relax to enjoy your new vacation home. If questions or problems arise, I am here to help you at any time. For more information contact Theresa Baird - Broker with ReMax Realty Enterprises at 647-298-0997 or tbaird@tbaird.com. Also check out www.powertomoveyou. com to learn more.
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Van Mills Dental Office 14
Cristina PORA 2012 AD:Layout 1 14/11/12 2:25 PM Page 1
CRISTINA PORA BALACEANU
Are We Spiritual Creatures?
Classical Dance Academy
By M. Giguere
Established - 1975 Director: Cristina Pora
Be it resolved—Religion is a force for good in the world. For: Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of England and a Roman Catholic; Against: Christopher Hitchens, renowned thinker, journalist and an atheist
www.clarksonbia.com
Former Ballerina - NATIONAL OPERA BUCHAREST (Romania) 2010 Winner of the Mississauga Arts Council MARTY AWARD Established Performing Artist
Any one following the much acclaimed Munk debate series will recall this thought provoking debate that occurred approximately 1 year ago at Toronto’s Roy Thompson Hall.
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM Pre-School Dance - 2 1/2 - 5 yrs. Junior Dance - 6 yrs. & up.
It is the mere fact of the debate that is noteworthy. It is very telling of the human condition. We are both social and spiritual beings. It is vital for us to ponder debate, consider and think about deep issues relating to our very existence and purpose. I
Beginner to Professional Levels
Ages 2 1/2 Years - Adults
XMAS OPEN HOUSE DEC. 17 - DEC. 22 * Ballet * Modern * Hip-Hop * Jazz * Flamenco * Tap
rrespective of the side you are on with regard to the above noted debate one does not need to delve very deeply into the ethos of all major formal religions to understand that the fundamental ethos underpinning all of them can be boiled down to being respectful and caring for one another. It is a fairly argued position that formal religion has been the ostensible root of much rancor and divisiveness throughout the history of human kind. This lends credence to the “against” side of the debate. Ironically, notwithstanding that for most of us, our faith tradition is an accident of birth, it is the adherence to superficialities and dogma that is the true source of much of the fear and mistrust placed in formal religions. Nevertheless we all seek some solace in our quest for understanding of our greater purpose. There are avenues available for such reflection. There are oases of calm in your harried and confused world. They are as close as your local community. The immediate Clarkson/Lorne Park area is home to at least a dozen places of worship covering a myriad of Christian denominations as well as a mosque. We all live together in harmony.
REGISTER NOW for winter/spring session. 2133 Royal Windsor Dr., Unit 13/14
(Intersections of Lake Shore Rd., Southdown Rd., and Royal Windsor Dr.)
Tel: (905)
823-5150 director@poradanceacademy.ca • www.poradanceacademy.ca
Have another look—seek an option that is welcoming, inclusive, thought provoking and that cuts directly to the chase. Add some hot coffee and lively music and you will be in nirvana/heaven or just a darn nice place.
C
R
LARKSON
OAD
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
BEFORE
We have a new Minister and we’d love you to meet her! Introducing the Rev. Gale Macdonald
Christmas Services December 9th, 10:30 am Children’s Service
December 16th, 10:30 am Senior and Junior Choirs A Service of Lessons & Carols
December 24th, 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Service ****************************************
Clarkson Road Presbyterian Church 1338 Clarkson Road North, Mississauga 905-822-8911 clarksonchurch@bellnet.ca www.clarksonpc.org
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