Port Credit Village Times 2015 04 02

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PORT CREDIT

VILLAGE TIMES Putti n g Po r t C re d it F ir st !

Vo l u m e 0 9 • Is s u e 0 2 • A pril / M ay 20 1 5

www.portcredit.com

The Port Credit Concert Series

The Most Succesful Sign in Mississauga!

CLARKSON | LORNE PARK 1697 Lakeshore Road West CLARKSON 905-855-2200

PORT CREDIT

125 Lakeshore Road East PORT CREDIT 905-278-3500

The Port Credit Concert Series

By Lindsay Howe

Showcasing Electrifying Performances by Blues and Soul Bands - Raoul & The Big Time and Soulstack The Port Credit Concert Series presents Raoul & The Big Time, with special guests Soulstack on Saturday, April 18th at 8pm. This musical event takes place at The Riverview Room located at 35 Front Street North. The Port Credit Concert Series is sponsored by the Port Credit BIA (Business Improvement Area), the Mississauga Blues & Roots Association and Sunday Morning Soul. The Mississauga Blues & Roots Association assists in supporting and promoting blues and roots music in the city. It is their mandate to keep blues and roots alive, showcasing some of the finest regional artists. Meet the Bands Raoul & The Big Time and Soulstack are two of the most critically acclaimed blues and soul acts in the country. Come out to the Port Credit Concert Series and experience an unforgettably soulful evening of blues and soul! Raoul & The Big Time is a highly regarded and awarded blues acts in Canada. This electric blues band has released four albums and has performed on the main stages of many major festivals across the country! This blues band has also won numerous national level awards at the Maple Blues and Real Blues Awards, including Best New Artist, Best Debut CD and multiple instrumental awards. Soulstack is a well-known blues and roots band from Southern Ontario, bringing beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics to the stage. Soulstack received a 2014 Maple Blues Award nomination for Electric Act of the Year and Drummer of the Year. Soulstack’s second album entitled Five Finger Discount is a self-produced album. This innovative album has been received with a substantial amount of positive press, reaching #3 in Canada and #9 in North America for blues (RootsMusicReport.com). continued on page 6

Fun, Fresh & Fabulous!

74 Lakeshore Road East ~ 3 Blocks West of Highway 10 Port Credit ~ 905-271-8999 ~ Est. 1998 www.impressionablegifts.ca

Impressionable Gifts-Mississauga. @Impress_Gifts


1 BEDROOM

2 BEDROOM

CONDOS FROM THE

CONDOS FROM THE

$310’s

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NEW SALES CENTRE


THE LIVING ARTS CENTRE PRESENTS

May 1

May 3, 2015

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Friday,

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May

May 1 pm

FREE

Outdoor Activities May 2 & 3

2

10 a m to 6 pm

8:30 6 pm to

Sun

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May ay, 11 3 am

,

to 6 pm

Indoor E E FR Activities

Community Stage

FREE

May 2 & 3

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✮ Community Stage with

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Undersea Crawl Zone

Musical and Dance performances

CREATIVE ZONE

Rainbow Castle Hide n Seek Maze

throughout the Festival

✮ EXHIBITIONS featuring

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P ERF ORM A NC ES

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Children‛s Activities and Demonstrations

Alice

A Glow-in-the-Dark Dinosaurs Adventure

in Wonderland

MAY 1

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Written and directed by

Hugo B éla nge r Translated by Maureen Labonté

MAY 2

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Classical Music for Kids

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4141 LIVING ARTS DRIVE, MISSISSAUGA ON L5B 4B8 ◆ West of Square One, Hwys 403 & 10 PC+Streetsville_04_2015.indd 1

3/23/15 8:58 AM


Earth Day 2015: Working Together Towards Affecting Change Earth Day will take place on Wednesday, April 22nd this year. People all over the world will take part to show their appreciation for the planet and work together towards enacting change. Earth day is an opportunity to show how important the environment is to you. Making small changes to our everyday routines can make an enormous positive difference to our environment. Here are some basic, yet essential ways you help improve the planet:

Port Credit Village Times

Port Credit’s Community Newspaper Volume 09 | Issue 02 Bi-monthly Publication ~ Circulation 25,000 Delivered by Canada Post

For advertising information, please contact Toby Gardiner at 416-875-1409 or by e-mail at toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com www.rjentpub.com

• Taking shorter showers and refraining from taking baths • Stop buying bottled water and use a reusable container instead • Replacing regular light bulbs with fluorescent ones • Turning off computers at night • Using rechargeable batteries • Hanging up clothes to dry • Using reusable bags instead of plastic bags • Recycling newspapers • Paying bills online (canceling paper statements) • Buying local foods • Walking / cycling or carpooling to work

The Port Credit Business Improvement Association

It is time for us to be responsible individuals and stop misusing and overusing our natural resources. Let’s do our part to ensure our children grow up in an environment that is cleaner and safer than the one we live in.

105 Lakeshore Road West Port Credit, ON L5H 1E9 Tel: 905-278-7742 • Fax: 905-278-8864 Email: info@portcredit.com www.portcredit.com

Editorial Contributors: Lindsay Howe

Toby Gardiner | Publisher toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com

Follow us on Twitter @RJentpub and like us on Facebook @RJEntertainmentPublishing. Read all our publications on-line @ www.rjentpub.com The Port Credit Village Times is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.

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www.rjentpub.com


Spring into Port Credit The 2015 Port Credit walking tours are ready to start! All tours are approximately two hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring some water along. Bring a camera, too. There’s lot of nice scenery in Port Credit. All ages are welcome. Come alone or invite a friend. Have fun, ask questions, and bring along your own stories of Port Credit to share with others. Starting locations to be determined. Visit www.portcredit.com for updates, or follow Port Credit BIA on Twitter. April 25 The Northwest Village Remember Riverside school when there were only four classrooms? How about West Side Dairy, or the marinas where the rowing and canoe club are now? Take a tour of the village northwest of Lakeshore and the river, and the historic homes on Wesley Avenue. May 30 Hiawatha-on-the-Park Architectural and social transition define the unique Port Credit neighbourhood, where some of the homes are as old as the tall oaks that form an archway over quiet streets and narrow alleyways. June 27 Main Street Port Credit’s main streets still has butchers and bakers (but no candlestick makers). The businesses have changed, but many century-old buildings still remain on Lakeshore Road. Join us for a tour, inside and out, of some of the village’s familiar stores. July 25 Cycling Tour of Waterfront Trail New for 2015: A cycling tour of the east side of Port Credit and the neighbourhoods west of the village. Sites along the way: Cumberland Drive, Adamson Estate, Cooksville Creek, Rifle Ranges. Fun for all ages – wide, paved paths, no car traffic, no hills, and plenty of stops in the shade by the lakeside.

FINE DINING

“the place to be”

August 29 Shipwrecks, Social Unrest, and Rhododendrons The west side of Port Credit was a contrast of busy industries and elegant summer homes. Hear the story of the fight to protect a quiet lakeside cottage area, and take a nature tour of Mississauga’s only public “garden”. September26 Port Credit During WWI One hundred years ago, Port Credit shop owners, industries, churches and community groups began a recruitment campaign for the Empire. Tour the businesses that supported the war effort, and the homes of the young men who accepted the call of duty. October 31 Cemeteries and Mysterious Burial Places of Port Credit Meet the residents of the cemeteries at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea and Trinity Anglican, and travel a path of the possible aboriginal burial sites in the village.

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The Port Credit Concert Series

Local businesses invests a lot of money into the community

conetinued from front cover

The Port Credit Business Association (BIA) has presented a budget to City Council for $947,259.00 for programing including regular maintenance, landscaping, streetscape and art programs, special events and promotions and municipal partnership. The lion’s share of these costs ($752,299.00) is collected from local business owners though a special levy collected through commercial property taxes. The addition funds are raised through grants, vendor fees and sponsorships. . “All BIAs have the same goal – to encourage more traffic and ultimately increase economic health in their business area. The BIA acts as a unifying body for its membership – working to make Port Credit a “destination” not only for retailers and restaurants but for professionals as well.” According to General Manager, Ellen Timms Come out to Port Credit’s Concert Series at The Riverview Room on Saturday, April 18th. You won’t want to miss out the electrifying sound of Raoul & The Big Time and Soulstack.

Highlights of the 2015 Strategic Plan include: • Develop and implement a communications plan to improve the exchange and availability of timely information to members and the community.

Coming up on May 22nd, don’t miss The Millwinders and Ginger St. James as they bring their Rockabilly Sounds to the Riverview Room

• Plan, develop and deliver relevant professional development opportunities for PCBIA members.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Purchase your cash only tickets at Impressionable Gifts at 74 Lakeshore Road East or Ric’s Recollections at 257 Lakeshore Road East. You can also purchase tickets through PayPal at www.mississaugabluesandroots.com. For more info and upcoming concerts please call 416-902-9801 or visit the website.

• Continue to promote Port Credit through branding and marketing. • Update and upgrade public land by developing streetscape where possible within the PCBIA boundary. • Work with the City Departments to improve vehicular and pedestrian traffic conditions. • Support the economic health of the PCBIA. Ric Cooper, Ric’s Recollections owner and Chair of the 14-member board said, “We are excited about 2015 and feel we have some strong programming in place to continue to support our local businesses and residents. It’s going to be a fantastic year.”

THE PORT CREDIT CONCERT SERIES

Friday May 22nd The Riverview Room • 35 Front Street North, Port Credit

Tickets are $25 advance/$30 door

Cash Only Tickets can be purchased at: Impressionable Gifts • 74 Lakeshore Road East • 905.271.8999 Ric's Recollections • 257 Lakeshore Road East • 905.891.1523

Or thru PayPal at www.mississaugabluesandroots.com

For more information please call 416.902.9801

www.mississaugabluesandroots.com

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What’s in Store in the Housing Market this year? By Theresa Baird, Keller Williams Realty Solutions Young adults are becoming discouraged over their ability to afford and purchase their first home. The elderly are the very people they are likely to be purchasing from and that group are trying to cash out their money likely fund their retirement. While it doesn’t seem like our area will be effective as much as other major cities in the country, some markets are showing signs of a price correction. First time home buyers are finding out that the corrections in some areas are not nearly as large as they were either hoping for or were counting on. The Canadian Real Estate Association reported that house prices on average went up 17 % on a cumulative after-inflation basis from 2006 to 2012. The only reason homes remained affordable was largely due to low interest rates. Declining house prices in some cities recently suggests that low mortgage rates have done all they can to prop up home prices. It may be time to start to strategize or think about Smartsizing if you are a long term homeowner who has a substantial amount of equity in their home. If you absolutely love your home and plan to live in it indefinitely then stay put. If you plan to stay in your home another 10 plus years then you will most likely bridge any market corrections that occur. If your time horizon is shorter then that then it is time to talk to some professionals and get some advice. If your home equity is a big part of your retirement, then it’s time to start thinking about how potential price declines of 5, 10 or even 20 % could affect your financial plan. The Globe and Mail and Rob Carrick in particular have shared numerous articles as they report on the Real Estate industry as a whole across Canada. They provide a great online calculator to help you discover the impact this can have on you. (tgram.ca/housing-calculator )

FUR STORAGE

As more and more baby boomer considers when the right time would be to cash out, be careful you are not caught in a market downturn where you live. If you are a boomer and are interested in “smartsizing” then consider getting more information at our April Seminar. (go to tbaird.com)

Do not dispose of your used or inherited fur coats or jackets. This long time Mississauga Furrier will bring new life to them. We saw an older mink coat, sheared and remodeled into an elegant reversible raincoat.

ABOUT FUR STORAGE

If you’re a first time home buyer finding the market going through that downturn phase could become a great opportunity and investment for you.

Fur hates heat. It is not the actual hair that is affected, it is the hide or leather that can dry out, become stiff and crack. The optimum storage temperature is 45 degrees F. and 50% humidity. In Bazinas Furs’ storage vaults, the room is dark which prevents bleaching and fading of the colour. Moths and insects cannot survive at that temperature. Furs that are properly stored during hot weather can last up to fifty years or more.

First time home buyers don’t dis-pair, keep saving for that down payment, if interest rates increase or lending rules get tougher you will be well on your way to make it work when you are ready to buy. For information and seminar dates for first time home buyers go to tbaird.com. The next session is May 6th from 7:00 to 8:30.

269 Lakeshore Road East Mississauga, Ontario L5G 1G8 T. 905.278.1345

For more information visit www.tbaird.com or call 647-298-0997.

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The history of diamonds Diamonds have been a source of fascination for centuries. They are the hardest, the most imperishable, and the brilliant of all precious stones. The word “diamond” comes from the Greek word adamas, meaning “unconquerable”. A diamond is a transparent gem made of carbon, one of the earth’s most common and hardest elements. The formation of diamonds began very early in the earth’s history, when the condensation of solid matter into a sphere caused the centre of the planet to become subjected to incredible extremes of temperatures and pressure. The 1867 discovery of diamonds in the Cape Colony, South Africa, radically modified not only the world’s supply of diamonds but also the conception of them. As annual world diamond production increased more than tenfold in the following 10 years, a once extremely rare material became accessible to Western society with its growing wealth. For years the white diamond was considered the world’s most beautiful diamond, until the discovery of the Argyle mine heralded the arrival of the Argyle pink diamond. The quality and value of diamonds are measured by four characteristics known as the 4C’s. The 4C’s relate to a diamond’s cut, colour, clarity and carat weigh. A diamond’s colour is one of the most important factors in determining its value. The nearer a white diamond is to being absolutely colourless, the more rare and valuable it is. The graduations in colour are so subtle that intricate international grading scales have been devised. Diamonds are graded into categories defined by letters. The colour range from exceptional whites (categories D, E and F) to tinted colours (categories M to Z). The best way to pinpoint a diamond’s true colour is to place it next to another diamond that has previously been graded. Today, Canada is the third largest diamond producing country in the world. Diamond mining first began in Canada in 1990. What we Canadians are happy to say is that Canadian diamonds are well known for their guaranteed “conflict-free” origins. How do you tell if your diamonds are Canadian diamonds? The authenticity number on your Diamond Certificate is engraved on the girdle of the diamond. Diamonds bearing Canadian Diamond certificate adhere to a strict code. Go online to “The Canadian Diamond”; enter your certificate or stone number to see if it in fact is registered. To check the authenticity of your certificate go to www.thecanadiandiamond.com. April - Diamond As the April birthstone, diamonds are the ideal gift for a loved one. And now you have more choices than ever. Get creative and give the ultimate gift of beauty, a diamond. May - Emerald As the birthstone for May, the emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Today, most of the world’s emeralds are mined in Colombia, Brazil, Afghanistan, and Zambia. The availability of high-quality emerald is limited; consequently, treatments to improve clarity are performed regularly. For more information on diamonds and emeralds contact Lorne Park Jewellers (905) 891 0001 www.lorneparkjewellers.ca

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Camp Enterprise May 6 – 9, 2015

The Craftsman Condominium Residences’ Model Suite

By Pieter Kool

The perfect example of how to feather the nest Those who find themselves wanting a sophisticated and maintenancefree condominium lifestyle without giving up style or space should visit the stunning Model Suite in The Craftsman Condominium Residences’ new Sales Centre.

Before college, business school, or their first jobs, 85 Mississauga high school students are learning what it takes to become tomorrow’s business leaders. Each year, the nine Rotary clubs in Mississauga conduct three-day educational retreats in a program known as Camp Enterprise at the University of Toronto - Mississauga Campus. At each retreat, seasoned business professionals and entrepreneurs teach the students how to develop, launch, and operate a successful business in a free Entreprise economic system. The intensive camps, funded entirely by the Rotary Clubs and offered at no cost to participants, teach students team-building, leadership, and motivational skills. For 21 years, members of the Rotary Clubs of Mississauga have facilitated a Camp Enterprise as part of their vocational service. Streetsville Club member Doug Gerrard, the chair, says he hopes the camp leads students to want to create jobs after college, rather than just look for them. “I’d say most if not all of the students really don’t understand what business and entrepreneurship is all about,” says Doug. “This camp is an awakening for them. Around day two, you can see the lights go on in their heads, “this is what I want to do.” At the beginning of the retreat, participants are divided into teams of 6 to 8 students and asked to create their own business plans from scratch. Then they take part in teambuilding exercises to get to know each other so they can determine their roles within the business, including CEO, chief financial officer, marketing director, and human resources manager. Finally, they present their business plans to a panel of prominent entrepreneurs and venture capitalists from area firms. Camp counselors, mostly club members who are successful business owners themselves, mentor the teams. Students also meet one-on-one with mentors specific to their roles.

The Craftsman, developed by VANDYK group of companies in Clarkson Village, Mississauga, is an artisan-inspired four storey boutique condominium residence with timeless design and impeccable amenities. “The Clarkson” Model Suite is a great demonstration of how style and space are possible in condominium living. As soon as you enter the two bedroom 1,097 sq. ft. suite, you are welcomed by a beautiful entrance with wide hallways. The master bedroom features a large walk-in closet while the second bedroom shows various possibilities for extra living space by functioning as a bedroom, office, or den. Along with stainless steel appliances, the kitchen showcases a large island with quartz countertops.

Some of the comments from past students; “…one of the most valuable elements of the camp was when my team was asked to assign their own roles. Quickly evaluating teammates and assessing their strengths and weaknesses let him practice a skill I now uses at my own company.” “When we do our hiring, we make sure we really understand the core of who somebody is, instead of looking at just their résumé,” Being among likeminded students who had the same passion and interest in entrepreneurship added to the experience.

“The designer finishes seen in the Model Suite are all standard, so purchasers can feel at ease knowing that they don’t have to upgrade to get the level of quality finishes they want,” says Linda Mitchell Young, VP of Sales & Marketing at VANDYK group of companies. “To help with the selection process, all purchasers are given a private appointment with one of our Décor Studio Consultants to ensure that their suite reflects their own individual style and taste.” In addition to stunning standard features, “The Clarkson” Model Suite is an example of how the placement of furniture within the open concept layout maximizes the use of space. Beautifully decorated and furnished by the interior design team at UNION31, the Model Suite showcases cleaner, more streamlined living that doesn’t sacrifice space for style.

“The environment was so invigorating. It only amplified throughout the event. We had incredible guest speakers, who I still stay in contact with. The experience of talking with them and bouncing ideas back and forth really gave me the confidence that I could do something big, too.” “Rotary is filled with great business leaders. Our members, who spend the weekend as counselors and give the students access to their knowledge, is where the magic really happens,” Shang says. He admits to spending years on the losing side of business, being a part of failed startups. He co-founded a successful company that buys and refurbishes shipping containers for office space, temporary housing, and storage. “My biggest message to the students is that it’s OK to fail. In all likelihood you will fail at some point,” says Shang. “As long as when you do, you learn from it, get back up, and keep trying.” One of the keys to the company’s success was setting core values. “Understanding and being committed to integrity with how we hire employees and interact with each other, our suppliers, and the community were important. We do all of this by strictly following The Four-Way Test,” he says.

“Many purchasers will be coming from homes that are 2,000 sq. ft. and above,” said Kelly Cray, Principal-Creative at UNION31. “The suite layout maximizes efficiency in everyday living, with zero wasted space, maximum storage, both in closets and cupboards, and excellent flow overall.” The Craftsman’s exterior design pays tribute to the masterful work of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose influence is also translated within the interior design of the Model Suite. “We have brought in the warm woods from the mature environment surrounding the project,” said Cray. “We have created a very sophisticated and natural feel by bringing in some metal and steel to add sparkle to the space and we’ve included natural tones in the wall colour, which Wright was famous for, that gives the suite a contemporary flair and offers soft elegance.”

Camp Enterprise also presents business concepts according to Rotary’s Four-Way Test, which stimulates the learning of entrepreneurship as well as personal values, says Doug Gerrard. “Being successful in business doesn’t just mean making money,” he says. “We emphasize the development of skills necessary to not only succeed in business but also in functioning as contributing members of our society.”

Located on lively Lakeshore Rd. W. in the forested setting of Birchwood Park, The Craftsman is just steps from the Lake Ontario waterfront, with yacht clubs, boardwalks and biking trails. Being situated in Clarkson Village also gives residents quick and convenient access to galleries, bistros and restaurants, and excellent shopping. With easy access to the QEW and Clarkson GO Station, a trip to downtown Toronto is also just minutes away.

This article was edited from www.Rotary.org website, originally written by Ryan Hyland, December 1, 2014 For more information about the Nine Rotary Clubs in Mississauga, when and where they meet www.mississaugarotary.org

Whether you’re a mature buyer looking to downsize or a first-time home buyer looking for maintenance-free condominium living, The Craftsman Condominium Residences offers something for every type of lifestyle.

Other events by Rotary: April18 - 2015 Spring Celebration and Gala www.rotarymeadowvale.ca May 22 - Mississauga Lobster Fest www.mississaugalobsterfest.com July 16, 17, 18 & 19 - Mississauga Rib-Fest www.mississaugaribfest.com

Prices at The Craftsman start in the low $300’s. The Model Suite is located at the brand new Sales Centre at 1601 Lakeshore Rd. W. in Mississauga, open Monday-Thursday from 12-6pm, and Friday-Sunday from 12-5pm. For more information, visit www.craftsmancondo.com or call 905-8234044 to speak to a Sales Representative.

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COMMUNITY CORNER Port Credit Secondary School hosts The Inside Ride The Inside Ride is Canada’s first indoor cycling celebration that raises funds in support of children and their families living with and beyond childhood cancer. This team-based, indoor-cycling challenge is fun, safe, and energizing for participants and volunteers! The Inside Ride will take place on Wednesday, April 15th at 1:30 pm in the school gym at Port Credit Secondary School. Register your team at www.portcredit.theinsideride.com. For more information contact Port Credit Secondary school or Erika. proctor@peelsb.com.

Attention Community volunteers! Port Credit Festivals is looking for volunteers for the 2015 Season. You can have fun, meet new and interesting people, and give back to your community at the same time! For more information send an email to Brenda Armstrong at pc-volunteer@bell.net or call 905.271.4247. Arts on the Credit: Inspired, Original Art Arts on the Credit 2015 will officially open Saturday, April 11th at 11 am Waterside Inn, Port Credit. Show hours both Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, are 11 am - 5 pm. A stunning heirloom quality necklace and earring set by returning local jeweller, Jan Krutzelmann valued at $500, will be presented at the closing of the show as a draw prize. $5 admission

Lorne Park Library upcoming events Author visit On April 9, 2015 at 7 pm, Lorne Park Library presents Tanis Rideout, local author, who will discuss her novel, “Above All Things”. Her novel has been described as follows: “The Paris Wife meets Into Thin Air in this breathtaking debut novel of obsession and divided loyalties, which brilliantly weaves together the harrowing story of George Mallory’s ill-fated 1924 attempt to be the first man to conquer Mount Everest, with that of a single day in the life of his wife as she waits at home in England for news of his return.” All are welcome.

Contact Sue Riley at 905-274-2993 or suething@sympatico.ca or visit www.artsonthecredit.ca. Bubbles & Beauty – Celebrating Generations of Smiles Walden Circle Retirement Community, Nurse Next Door Home Care, Michael’s Hair Body Mind, and Private Moments are co-hosting a fashion show to raise funds for “Operation Smile” on Wednesday, April 8th from 7 – 9 pm.

Elder Technology Assistance Group Workshop April 17, 2015 1 - 4 pm The topic of this workshop is Safety and Privacy Online. New computer applications and computer information of interest to seniors will also be discussed. Space is limited. Please phone 905 615-4845 to register. Fraud Prevention Workshop May 21, 2015 2 p.m. Workshop presented by Peel Police. Learn how to safeguard your privacy and resist scams. All welcome, no registration required. Lorne Park Library is located at 1474 Truscott Dr. in Mississauga.

The evening will feature champagne, hors d’oeuvres, fashion, entertainment, giveaways, and will be hosted by Brynne Blackwood; Mississauga’s own Miss Universe Canada Candidate! There will be 2 multigenerational fashion shows. Fashion show times are 7:30 pm and 8:15 pm. Tickets are $25 each with proceeds going to Project Smile. Walden Circle Retirement Community is located at 1907 Lakeshore Road West in Mississauga. R.S.V.P by calling (905) 403-8660 and ask for Sara, Lana, or Kerri.

Unitarian Congregation in Mississauga presents ARCADY’s VOICES OF SPRING - Sunday, May 24, 2015 at 3pm Arcady is directed by Canadian composer, Ronald Beckett. The organization combines outstanding young Canadian performers with established professional instrumentalists and singers and is the regular chorus for Boris Brott’s National Academy Orchestra of Canada. This is the last concert in a series celebrating the congregation’s 60th Anniversary. Located at 84 South Service Road, Mississauga (at Hurontario) visit www.uucm.ca. Tickets are available by calling the church office at 905-278-5622 (weekdays between 10am and 3pm) or at the door. Adults $25; Seniors / Students $20. Or option to pay what you are able.

Canadian Cancer Society 10th Annual Spring Garden Tour Homeowners in the Mineola West Area have graciously agreed to open their beautiful spring gardens to the public for viewing on Sunday, May 31 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. in support of the fight against cancer. New this year, a plant sale, to help you get ready for your summer gardens. The tour will surely serve as inspiration. Volunteers will also be selling “Mystery Bags”, filled with garden related items. In addition, to further enhance visitors’ experience, local musicians will perform instrumental music in selected gardens throughout the day.

Artfest Port Credit Artfest Ontario is expanding its’ 2015 Art & Craft Show event roster to include Port Credit in Memorial Park. The event will take place Friday, May 29 from 4-8pm, Saturday, May 30 from 10am-6pm and Sunday, May 31 from 10am-5pm.“Artfest had an opportunity to grow this year and selected the lovely village of Port Credit. They have welcomed us with open arms! It has many wonderful built-in features that we look for when presenting over 100 of our Canadian artists and artisans in an outdoor show.” Explained Lory MacDonald, president of Artfest Ontario.

Advanced tickets are $15 and are available in April at the following locations: Battaglia’s Lorne Park Marketplace, 1150 Lorne Park Rd., Cousin’s Market, 1211 Hurontario St., Port Credit’ Crafted Decor, 232 Queen St. S. (Streetsville), Herridge’s Fruit Market, 780 Southdown Rd., Impressionable Gifts, 74 Lakeshore E., Port Credit and the Canadian Cancer Society, 2227 South Millway. Tickets available on the day of tour are $20.

Located in Memorial Park at the mouth of the Port Credit River, the show is protected from the wind and right downtown. The park has a lovely gazebo to shelter the free arts programming and a sweet little music stage facing a flagstone courtyard. Visitors can sit and listen to tunes performed by Haze & Dave Wipper’s gorgeous guitar and vocals.

OHF Provincial Championships Peewee AA The Mississauga Braves Peewee AA hockey team will host the provincial championships on April 10-12, 2015 at the Port Credit Arena. Admission is $10/day or $25 for the weekend. The best Peewee AA teams from Alliance Hockey, NOHA, GTHL and OMHA hockey will battle for the honour to be the best hockey team in Ontario.

The artists have plenty of space to use for creatively displaying their handmade beautiful items. There is a wide selection of artists and products to explore including pottery, glass art, paintings, photography, wooden items, clothing, jewellery, gourmet food and more. Great for wedding gift season and freshening up our homes for the Spring! The artists come from all over Ontario and Quebec, however there are some local favorites to such as: painters Christopher Masoure and Peter Ripley. Port Credit and Artfest invite you to include Artfest in your May 29-31 weekend plans. Come by boat, Go Train, car, bike or walk! There’s much to explore in this quaint waterfront hamlet of Mississauga. Admission is free for the entire family. Shop, learn, and participate! Please come to see our new Artfest Port Credit event.

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COMMUNITY CORNER Hazel McCallion Book Signing

Councillor Tovey, Ward 1 update

On Monday May 4th, 2015 7pm – 9pm former Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion will be signing copies of her memoir Hurricane Hazel – A Life with Purpose. The event is hosted by Ten Restaurant 139 Lakeshore Road East in Port Credit. Autographed books will cost $25.

Dear Friends and Neighbours, Thank goodness spring has finally arrived; the patios and flowers will be blooming once more. Although we experienced a bitterly cold winter in Mississauga, 2014 was, according to the Scientific American, the warmest year on record. Indeed all of the top ten warmest years world-wide have occurred since 1998. 2015 will definitely be our turn for a sunny, warm summer in our perfect village on the Lake. It is shaping up to be another terrific year in the number one Ward. We will be able to enjoy even more patios this summer and shops will have the option to add outdoor displays, benches and public art. The annual line up of festivals, art shows and performances are again, going to be stellar. A new addition for family fun this year is PumpkinFest in October hosted by the Port Credit Business Improvement Association. Thank you to the BIA and all of the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the vitality of our community and make these events possible. Our beaches will be open for swimming, with weekly testing courtesy of the Region of Peel and posted on the Region and Mississauga web sites. This is the third year in a row the beaches have been open, thanks in large part to the environmental work completed by the Region of Peel. It is amazing that after so many years of not being able to swim in Lake Ontario; our water quality is so dramatically improved that we can enjoy a cool dip on a hot day. There is still much to be accomplished and I invite everyone to participate in the annual shore line and creek clean ups we will be organizing over the spring, summer and fall. If you or a group you belong to would like to help, please call our office at 905-896-5100. Great weather is almost here; time to get out with friends, time to enjoy our shops, waterfront and special events. Dust off the bike, strap on the sandals, head for Port Credit and celebrate our incredible community. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your bathing suit.

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ERIN MILLS

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If it isn't the view that entices you to want to own this beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath Penthouse condo at One Sherway then it surely would be the amenities that this building offers. Billiards, swimming pool, a sun deck, fully equipped exercise room, a yoga room, theatre, large lounge and a party room. Easy access to downtown Toronto or to Pearson airport, QEW, Gardiner and 427 highways.

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Located in the perfect position on this child friendly cul-de-sac, this home on Dolson Court has both schools and a park across the street. This gorgeous 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom home has been meticulously maintaind and is move in ready. Numerous upgrades include hardwood floors, granite counters, a large kitchen island, Jenn-Air appliances, doors and windows.

GEORGIAN BAY

225SHERWAY.TBAIRD.COM This One Sherway 1 bedroom plus den condo is the perfect starter condo with all the conveniences of an established building. Freshly painted in neutral colours with updated lighting, wood floors and a nice view. The building offers phenomenal amenities including virtual golf, theatre room, billiards, swimming and hot tubs, exercise rooms, an amazing bar and lounge. Call to view it today !

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If you are looking to build your own dream cottage or 4 season home on Georgian Bay, then this deep harbour water front lot could be the perfect place for you. The lot is 100' x 179' & is located in a great location within Skyline master-planned waterfront community in Port McNicol. Build from 2500 to 7500 sq ft, you can achieve the home of your dreams. Your 75' water rights allows for the dock of your choice.

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Weight Loss Secrets Revealed

30 years young

By Coach Crystal Mallari, Owner, R3 Evolution Fitness Studio

By Marion Klinnert, Private Moments Lingerie and Ladies Wear

The ONLY Three Tips You’ll Ever Need to Achieve Your Weight Loss Goals

In 1985 I opened the doors of what people now call a “passion”.

“So what should I do to lose 15 pounds?” I can’t tell you how many times I have heard that question from people anxiously waiting to hear the “magic” answer…

I agree but also challenge that expression. Yes, owning your own business is fuelled by passion in the beginning but to sustain a business through good and bad times is a feat.

…I guess that’s my curse, and probably the curse of all top personal trainers. How do I answer such a loaded question, especially when the person across from me is waiting for me to tell them to take the magic pill that will burn fat while they sleep.

Tenacity, encouragement from friends and family, a good bank manager, good health, lots of seminars, conferences and support from the community; well you get the picture. I have always said that if you open a business and treat it like a hobby it will reward you like a hobby. Please don’t get me wrong, hobbies are great; I too have a few. But owning and running a successful business is tough.

That magic pill doesn’t exist, and if it did I have no doubt that it would cause so many undesired side-effects that it would be quickly pulled off the shelves – but not before doing significant damage.

It takes time away from family and friends, weddings and funerals. Many have thought that being self-employed is great but no crazier oxymoron was ever stated. Hydro, the landlord, the staff, the suppliers, the government just to name a few are our employers. Our customers are our employers. We eat, sleep and live our businesses. Why? Good question! We are a different breed. I used to call it the “sickness”. You’re crazy to work long hours for little pay; constantly fretting about something business related. Juggling a family and career. On edge about the bank balance, worrying/hoping that that snow storm won’t hit till next month. That the air conditioner will hold out another year. And why do we do it?

So what I did is I created the Get Crystallized 6 Week Slim down Program. THE FIRST STEP Learning to make the right choices in your diet and workouts will become a lifestyle that never ends. This choice will pay off every day for the rest of your life. As you enjoy a lowered body fat, high energy levels and your ideal body weight you will feel your confidence and health greatly increase. Start to build the habits that will increase your enjoyment and quality of life today!

I know for me it was and still is a passion and a wonderful career choice. My family for generations carried the “self-employed” gene. I come by mine honestly.

Get Crystallized 6 Week Slim down Program Includes: • 18 Fat-Blasting Training Sessions & Boot Camp Classes at R3 Evolution Fitness Studio • 9-Fat Blasting At-Home Workouts • Unlimited E-mail and FB Coaching & Support Group • Fitness Assessment & Measurements • Done-For-You Meal Plan

When I talk to friends in the same field I get all fired up. Excited. Sometimes too excited. The economy is in a slump…what to sell? The weather is changing and so are Port Credit’s demographics. What to buy? The dollar has dropped so do we accept US$’s (of course we do) … always something to think about! And that gets me excited and looking forward to the next day, season, and year.

This special program is valued at $489 and is only available for $147 if you register before April 18, 2015, and ONLY to the FIRST 21 APPLICANTS!

And so 30 years have passed. (Sigh) People have come and gone, buildings have come and gone but my memories and passion will last forever! I am still fired up about what I do and thankful that I can do it.

Call 416-877-0361 for more information or to enroll or visit www.r3evolution.com. R3 Evolution is located at 3065 Ridgeway Dr. #50, Mississauga.

Private Moments Lingerie and Ladies Wear are located at 259 Lakeshore Rd. East. Call 905-278-8055 or visit www.privatemoments.ca.

14


Reducing Nearsightedness in Children

Three Different Days of Fun and Entertainment - Something for All

By Silvia Yeomans, Queen Spectacle Finally some incredible weather! The snow pants are put away and we have come out of hibernation. And coincidentally, there is new research that shows the link between playing outdoors and your eyes.

This year’s Mississauga Waterfront Festival has different daily themes to capture the varying flavours of summer in the City. The Mississauga Waterfront Festival is only eleven weeks away and for the first time, the Festival features daily themes. Each of the daily themes caters to families and adults alike.

For many years, people believed that children were ruining their eyes with computers and smartphone screens. Scientists say this is false!

To kick it off on Friday, the Credit goes Country complete with country music stars, line dancing and cowboy boots. Saturday night is a Rockin’ River Revue with tribute to Classic Rock, while Sunday celebrates sports, staying active and welcomes the Pan Am Torch Relay. With so much to see and do visitors will enjoy something new each day. What: When:

Where:

A number of recent studies show that spending more time outdoor, (about 14 hours a week) may help prevent or reduce the progression of nearsightedness in children.

The Mississauga Waterfront Festival Friday June 12, 2015 from 6:00pm to 11:30pm Saturday, June 13, 2015 from 11:00am to 11:30pm Sunday, June 14, 2015 from 10:00am to 6:00pm Port Credit Memorial Park 32 Stavebank Road, Mississauga

Children’s eyes are still growing between the ages of five and nine. Sometimes this growth causes the distance between the lens and the retina to lengthen, leading to nearsightedness. The proposed explanation is that the different types of outdoor light may help preserve the proper shape and length of the eye during that growth period.

As always, admission is free! For more information call the Festival Office at 905-891-0002, www.themwf.com. About the Mississauga Waterfront Festival Ranked as a top 100 Ontario Festival for 10 years, the Mississauga Waterfront Festival is a premiere weekend event. Now celebrating its 19th year, the festival annually attracts close to 65,000 visitors from across the GTA, as well as visitors from Quebec and New York State. Since 1997, the Mississauga Waterfront Festival’s Sponsor a Child program has enabled over 60,000 children and their families to attend the festival free of charge.

If this is all it takes, let’s grab our basketballs and skipping ropes and enjoy another great reason to go outside! Silvia Yeomans is the owner of Queen Spectacle. Queen Spectacle has locations in Streetsville, Port Credit and The Kingsway. They are a Full Eye Care Team recognized for their service excellence. For more information visit their website, www.queenspectacle.com

MAESTRO DENIS MASTROMONACO

APRIL 25 - 8PM MEDITERRANEO Soloist: Daniel Bolshoy

IBERT

Escales

RODRIGO

Concierto de Aranjuez

RAVEL

Alborada del Gracioso

MENDELSSOHN Symphony No. 4 (Italian) Living Arts Centre - Hammerson Hall - Mississauga Tickets start at $48. To purchase, call: 905-306-6000 - or - visit: mississaugasymphony.ca

15


Stained Glass Throw Yarn: 18 skeins of Noro Silk Garden in 18 different colors; 4 balls Galway worsted in black 5mm needles, two 40” or 60” 5 mm circular and st markers Yarn substitution: Noro Kureyon or Noro Taiyo (only 9 of these) Make your Blocks: Using a 5.0mm needle and Silk Garden, cast on 15 sts. Work 15 garter ridges (30 rows). * cast off on RS, leaving last loop on needle. Turn the square clockwise (NOT back-to-front) and pick up 1 st in each garter ridge on the side of the original rectangle(16 sts). Knit 6 garter ridges (11 rows). Repeat from *, picking up a st in each garter ridge of the stripe you just made, plus 15 stitches in the cast-on edge of the original rectangle (22 sts). Knit 6 garter ridges (11 rows), work in this manner until you have 9 sections. Section 4 will also have 22 sts. Sections 5 & 6 will have 28 sts. Sections 7 & 8 will have 34 sts and section 9 will have 40 sts. One ball of Silk Garden will make a square with some left over. I separated the leftovers into a bag with the brights and a bag with the earthier tones to use for the last two squares. The block will be approximately 10” square. Make 18 blocks from each of 18 colors, and make the last 2 blocks out of the leftovers. Make your strips: You can now arrange your squares where you want or do what I did and just grabbed the next square out of the bag and let them fall where they may. I did arrange them so that the 9th section is at the top of the square. Using a 5.0mm needle, attach your Classic at the bottom of the block, picking up a stitch in each garter ridge and in each bound-off stitch You will have 40 sts. Knit 3 garter ridges (5 rows). Leave these stitches live on a needle or large stitch holder. Break yarn. Take your next block. Attach the Classic to the top of this block. Knit 3 garter ridges (5 rows). Join these live stitches with the live stitches of the first block using the three needle bind off. Continue in this manner until you have five squares joined. You will not have any trim at the bottom or the top of the strips, that comes later. Join the strips together: You are starting at the left side of your throw and working to the right. Take your first strip and join your classic to the bottom, right side facing and working up the strip with 5mm circular needle pick up and knit 1 st in each garter ridge and one st in each cast off st. So.... you will have 40 sts along each square and 6 sts along the black. You want to place a marker in the middle of the black. This will be very important when you join the strips together because you want the black strips to match across the throw. When all your sts are picked up you will have 43 sts along the edge of the top and bottom squares and 46 in between the markers. Double check this and adjust where needed when you knit your first row. Work 5 rows in total (3 ridges). Put aside and do the same with the next strip but working from the top down. Join your strops together with the three needle bind off making sure your markers line up. Join all 4 strips in the same manner. Outside Border: This is done in the same way as the squares. Starting at the top right with right side facing pick up the same way you did when joining your strips together. No need to use your markers here because you don’t need to join it to anything so the st count is not as important but try to get it close:) Knit 15 rows (8 ridges) Cast off leaving the last st live. Turn your work clockwise and pick up down the left side. Knit 15 row and cast off. Work around the whole throw in this manner. Sew in your ends and stand back to admire your amazing achievement!! Isn’t Noro wonderful

16


Fine Filtered…. By Ric Cooper I read an article in The Toronto Star last week where the author suggested that there is just too much music. I tend to agree with him (hard to believe coming from a record store owner!) Every week I’m supplied a list of new releases and re-issues, generally over 200 titles long. These are only ones my main distributor will be carrying or has access to. My German wholesaler has a similar size list with many different titles. Even if I had unlimited funds and a department size store, there is no way I could carry them all. People come in and ask for bands that I’ve never even heard of and I wonder where did they hear about these bands? There are so many sources like satellite radio, you-tube, iTunes and terrestrial radio that it leaves one asking where to begin. Back in the 60s/70s/80s we relied on DJs, usually on FM radio to introduce us to new bands. You could find a DJ that had similar taste in music and you could trust their recommendations they would help filter the “wheat from the chaff” and play great tracks from albums. As things got more corporate during the 80s, playlists became automated and DJs began to lose their influence. Friends could be another type of filter where you could share new discoveries. With satellite radio offering “genre” styled stations, music listening became easier to filter out unwanted noise. The internet has become a treasure trove or a minefield of new music with literally millions of songs to choose from. Genres have been sub-divided and niche musical interests can have their own radio/net station. This still leaves us wondering, where to go and who to trust? Record companies don’t offer “play copies” anymore so I don’t have an advantage of knowing the new bands/releases as well as I would like. Besides, there are so many great oldies out there by non mainstream bands that I’ve never heard before by bands like Camel, Fluid, Toad, Pretty Things and more. A perfect example of this is Rodriguez. He recorded a few albums in the early 70s that went nowhere. Thanks to a documentary “Looking for Sugarman” he went viral “overnight”. I’m sure many of you haven’t heard of these bands either but I can recommend all of them! More and more people are going back to vinyl and the record companies know this. Along with past blockbusters, they are pressing obscure titles as well. I was flabbergasted when an album that took me 20 years to find a copy got reissued last week. If you’re planning on getting back into vinyl, come on in and let me help you enjoy more of the experience. I’ll filter out the lousy stuff if I can! The 8th annual record store day is Saturday, April 18th. This is a celebration of independent stores like mine and I’ll be carrying many of the rare limited edition releases by new and older bands released for that day only. Items like David Bowie picture discs (6000 worldwide), Miles Davis box sets and too many more to mention. In the meantime, happy listening!

17


Congratulations ON YOUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY FROM ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS AT

SIMON CHANG

Lingerie & Ladies Wear • Est. 1985 We Specialize in Bra-Fitting & Post-Mastectomy Products

259 Lakeshore Road East, Port Credit 905.278.8055 • www.privatemoments.ca

Mon. Tues. Wed. & Sat: 10 - 6 • Thurs. & Fri. 10 - 8 • Sunday Closed

www.themwf.com

905-891-0002 • info@themwf.com 18


Reporting Foreign Properties on Your Tax Return If you carefully review your tax documents, on the very first page of the tax return form there is a question: “did you own or hold foreign property at any time in the year with a total cost of more than $100,000 CAD? “ If you hastily answer “NO”, think twice, especially starting in 2014 tax year. 9

CRA begins to place an increased emphasis on foreign reporting, primarily to target international tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance, but at the same time affecting all taxpayers, even with moderate portfolios and less significant assets. Here is a brief look at who is affected and what needs to be reported.

In support of Sponsor A Child

Who needs to report foreign property? Individuals, corporations, some trusts and partnerships who own total of $100,000 or more of foreign assets at any time in a year, valued at cost. Property to be reported: •Funds held outside of Canada •Shares of non-resident corporations •Non-Canadian property held in account with Canadian registered security dealer or Canadian trust company, other than mutual funds •Interests and rights with respect to a non-resident entity, including trusts •Interests in a foreign insurance policy •Precious metals, gold certificates, and futures contracts held outside Canada •Debts owed by a non-resident •Real estate, other than discussed below in the exemption section It is very important to note that before 2014 you did not have to include investments that were held within Canadian investment companies (security dealers) for which you received T5 or T3 slip. Now, this exemption is lifted.

2015 Sponsor A Child • Aces Are Wild

Join us for a Vegas Style Extravaganza Thursday, April 9, 2015 @ 5:30pm

Location - Le Treport Banquet & Convention Hall 1075 The Queensway East, Mississauga Tickets - $125.00 per person (includes HST) $115.00 per person with the purchase of 10 tickets (includes HST) Tickets Include: Casino Fun Play Gourmet Food Stations Exciting Vegas Style Entertainment Door Prizes 2 Complimentary Drinks For tickets call the

Property excluded from foreign reporting: The major exclusion is the real estate held exclusively for personal use, such as vacation property. However, if the property is rented for more than 50% of the year, it is no longer considered personal use only. Another significant exception to the reporting rule is property held within RRSP and TFSA, and through Canadian mutual funds. Also, foreign property used in active business is excluded, as well as foreign registered retirement plans.

P R E S E NTE D BY

How to report: If you find yourself to be the one with enough foreign assets to attract CRA’s attention, you need to brace yourself for rather complex reporting rules. Your holdings will need to be reported on a country by country basis, and you will need to check for their highest monthly closing value throughout the year. In addition, income and gains (losses) realized from all dispositions during the tax year will also have to be disclosed. Your foreign property needs to be reported on a special form called Foreign Income Verification Statement. It needs to be filed according to your tax filing deadline. For example, if you have employment or investment income only, your filing deadline is April 30. If you are self-employed, your deadline is June 15.

905-891-0002 www.themwf.com

These changes in foreign reporting have major implications for those who have portfolios that include non-Canadian content. You have to carefully review your foreign assets to see if you do not exceed the 100K mark. If you do, you should talk to you investment advisor and accountant about what it means for your reporting requirements. No doubt, this really makes the tax filing deadline even more challenging! Eva Kupiec, CPA, Professional Corporation and Beata Kurpiewski, Chartered Professional Accountant operate their practices at 3461 Lake Shore Blvd. W. in Toronto. www.beaccounting.ca

19


Charles Sousa, MPP Mississauga South Our office is here for you. We’re open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Constituency Office: 120 Lakeshore Road West, Unit 1 & 2 Mississauga, Ontario L5H 1E8 T: 905-274-8228 | F: 905-274-8552 csousa.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org www.charlessousa.ca 20


Taxing Issues Gordon O. Stockman, BComm., CPA, CA, CFP, CIM Vice President – Financial Planning, Efficient Wealth Management Inc. comply. We did so, knowing that, even after hours of additional work, we still only came up with good estimates.

Sharing Tax Information Around the Globe. There was a time, that when the only taxman you worried about was Canada Revenue Agency(CRA). Last year that changed. The United States taxes its citizens, residents and green-card holders (collectively, US persons) on their worldwide income, regardless of whether they live in the United States or not. It is the only country in the world to do so. The CRA, in contrast, only taxes persons resident in Canada.

It is important to ensure that this form is filed as required, as the penalties are very onerous! If you are using an accountant to do your taxes, make sure that this form is filed - you the taxpayer are ultimately responsible to ensure that your taxes are filed correctly, even when you are paying someone else to do them for you!

In search of that worldwide income, the US passed a very onerous law last year. The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) is a United States federal law that requires United States persons, including individuals who live outside the United States, to report their financial accounts held outside of the United States, and requires foreign financial institutions to report to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about their U.S. clients. FATCA is an attempt to make it more difficult for U.S. taxpayers to conceal assets held in offshore accounts and shell corporations, and thus to recoup federal tax revenues.

Sharp Accounting Services Inc. is a subsidiary of Efficient Wealth Management Inc. It was formed to assist small corporations and investors in maximizing their tax planning, while controlling the cost of their bookkeeping and accounting.

Efficient Wealth Management Inc. was created to provide unbiased, independent, superior financial planning advice, on an Advice for a Fee basis. Our extended mission is to bring portfolio manager services bundled with full financial planning to investors with less than 1 million dollars. We have been designing and utilizing strategic ETF portfolios for over 12 years, letting us return control of the cost of financial planning and investment management to the investor.

US Persons Living In Canada If you’re a US person living in Canada, you’re generally required to file both a Canadian and a US income tax return. In the past, the IRS may have no idea where to even find you. Many US Persons living in Canada have little or no connection to the US. Their whereabouts, let alone their assets were not determinable, until now. The government of Canada has agreed to cooperate with this US law by promise of reciprocity. That is the US government will share with CRA knowledge about Canadians and their assets. US Persons can no longer ignore their requirements to file information with the US IRS and/or the US Treasury Department. Although there are several mechanisms in place to prevent double taxation, the many differences between the two tax systems can still lead to unexpected tax liabilities— for example, tax on capital gains or losses on the sale of capital property, exempt municipal bonds, income earned in a TFSA and RESP, and many others. In 2013, the US introduced a new Net Investment Income Tax which can create a US tax liability which cannot be offset with a foreign tax credit for Canadian taxes paid. Seniors drawing Social Security may now have taxes payable in the US, where before, when working they did not. Even if you are sure you have no income due, if you have a RRSP or a RRIF and most US Persons living here would, the only way to file the proper election in the US each year is to file a form that is part of the US tax return. In addition, financial assets in Canada above a small threshold require a reporting to the US Treasury Department.

Gordon is a Chartered Accountant (CA), a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and a Chartered Investment Manager (CIM). He has close to 20 years of experience in Financial Planning and Portfolio Management and over 35 years in Tax Planning. Gordon is a frequent guest on television and has written numerous articles on investing and financial planning. He has also taught Financial Services and Accounting courses at local colleges.

T1135 Foreign Income Verification Statement Canada Revenue, in its wisdom, has decided that these US Persons’ financial assets reports to the US Treasury is are such a good idea that, they have increased the collection of data from Canadians about their assets outside of Canada. Since the mid 1990s, Canadians have had to file a declaration of their foreign property. On your personal tax return (corporate returns as well) you must answer the question “Did you own or hold foreign property at any time in the year with a total cost of more than CAN$100,000?” If the answer to this question is Yes, then form T1135 must be completed. Starting in 2013, the amount of information required on the form increased. In fact, we find the information even more detailed and harder to assemble than the US Persons report to the US Treasury. Canada has taken a good idea and turned it into a nightmare for compliance. There were some transitional rules in 2013, but some have been removed for 2014 and onward.

Professional Accounting and Tax Preparation at Bookkeeping Rates

Located in

PORT CREDIT

Our Tax Specialties: • Investors and Small Corporations • NEW Canadian T1135 Foreign Income Verification Rules • US-Canada Cross Border Tax Filings* • IRS e-Filer *US Tax Filing Obligations include Report on Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts Report (FBAR) And New Streamlined Filing Compliance Program for US Persons to catch up on their filing requirements.

Considerable detailed information is now required. In the past, Taxpayers taxpayers and/or their tax return preparers never needed this information – it’s not in their files. Investment advisors never needed this information for their clients so the investment industry was only helpful on a spot basis in 2013 and the jury is still out that if all clients will receive the necessary help with the information in 2014. It will come as a surprise to most, the many of the assets that require reporting and the few that do not. Considerable work is needed to prepare this form and if you are using a tax preparer get ready for a larger fee. We are hopeful in 2014 that with the help of the investment community there will only be a slight increase in preparation work and thus small increases in the fees charged. In 2013, we surprised numerous clients with hundreds of dollars of unexpected fees trying to

647.849.6193

jeandizon@sharpaccounting.ca

21



The Streetsville Founders’ 43nd Annual

BREAD & HONEY JUNE 5-6 - 7, 2015 FESTIVAL

V ETS

ILLE FOUNDER

S

THE ST

RE

Memorial Park • Streetsville

BRE

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Saturday Morning Parade through the Village Carnival Rides & Games, FREE Bread & Honey Artisan Market on the Island, Live Entertainment New and Improved Rotary Marketplace & Home Show, Food Vendors, Beer Gardens, Petting Zoo Beach Volleyball....AND MUCH MORE!

www.breadandhoney.ca • info@breadandhoney.ca • 335 Church Street

D HO

NE Y FEST

I VA

L

AD

AN


PORT CREDIT CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2015 www.portcredit.com • 905.278.7742

Did you know there are more Festivals in Port Credit than any other place in Mississauga?

April to October Port Credit’s Cultural Walks www.portcredit.com

July 1 - “Paint the Town Red” Canada Day Celebration and Parade www.paintthetownred.ca

May 2 & 3 Mississauga Marathon mississaugamarathon.com

Saturday & Sunday • July to August Music at Port Street Market www.portcredit.com

September 18, 19 & 20 Port Credit In-Water Boat Show www.portcreditboatshow.ca

May 29, 30 & 31 Spring Boat Show portcreditspringboatshow.com

Sundays • July to September Sunset Concert Series www.mississauga.ca/culture

October 17 Pumpkin Fest www.portcreditpumpkinfest.com

May 29, 30 & 31 Artfest Port Credit www.artfestontario.com

Fridays • July & August Rotary Movies in the Park www.rotarymovienights.com

October 24 & 25 Artisan Studio Tour www.artisanstudiotour.ca

Saturdays • June 6 to October 10 Farmers Market portcredit.com

August 21, 22 & 23 Port Credit Busker Fest 10 www.portcreditbuskerfest.com

November 28 Christmas at Port Street Market www.portcredit.com

June 12, 13 & 14 Real Canadian Superstore presents the Mississauga Waterfront Festival www.themwf.com

September 11, 12 & 13 Tim Hortons Southside Shuffle Blues & Jazz Festival www.southsideshuffle.com

December 14 Caroling in the Park www.portcredit.com

@portcreditbia www.portcredit.com


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