Dinner. Time. Get both!
ISLINGTON TIMES
4868 Dundas St. West, Toronto (at Islington Ave.)
416-354-2220
Vol u m e 0 1 • Is s u e 04 • Winter 2 0 1 3
www.supperworks.com
IN THIS ISSUE ‘Tis The Season Music Studio Presents Experience the Village Home For the Holidays Work and Play Healthy Aging Community Corner Community Corner Islington United Church Enhancing the CPP Bernard Trottier MP Heritage Groups Finance Tips
HOME IS WHERE CHRISTMAS IS
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www.villageofislington.com
The early settlers of Islington Village brought many skills with them including farming and blacksmithing. They also brought their Christmas traditions and beliefs which they introduced to their new home. The Johnston, Wilcox and Montgomery families were three of the earliest families to settle Islington Village in the early 1800s. The attitude toward Christmas of the Johnston and Wilcox families would have reflected their shared British roots and the many similarities of the Johnston’s Methodist faith and the Wilcox’s Presbyterian beliefs. The Montgomery family’s Christmas customs were influenced by Thomas Montgomery who was born in Northern Ireland and was a follower of the Church of England. At that time, members of the Methodist and Presbyterian faiths did not celebrate Christmas other than with family prayers in their own homes and perhaps a special meal. The Montgomerys and many other families who were not Methodist or Presbyterian would have also celebrated Christmas with a focus on the spiritual aspect of the occasion, although they likely decorated their houses with local plants like wintergreen and cranberry branches on Christmas Eve. A Yule log might have burned in their fireplaces and perhaps a Yule candle too. Christmas was also often an occasion for visiting among friends, possibly with more than the usual amount of drinking and recreational activities such as sleighing and skating. Beginning in the mid-19th century, most Protestants, including Methodists and Presbyterians, began to recognize Christmas as a time to celebrate with those celebrations focusing on home and family. There were also several new continued on page 04
Name that mural The first person to email Info@villageofislington.com with the correct name and address of the mural below will win a gift certificate for $25 from Supperworks.
‘Tis the season There is nothing like the holiday season in the Villages of Islington. The spirit was awakened during Shop the Hood on November 30th and is brought to a full tempo on Christmas Day. The holiday spirit continues on throughout the holiday season as the Village bustles with activity and local shops are decorated with holiday themed displays. Enjoy holiday shopping in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. Get to know the local business owners and let them assist you with their wealth of knowledge. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the many local shops and restaurants in your community. Looking for a quiet evening from shopping? Stroll along the streets in the Village of Islington and admire the many murals. From RJ Entertainment Publishing, we once again thank all our readers and advertisers for all that you do. We wish everyone happy holidays and a prosperous New Year. And remember to continue to shop local! Thanks to everyone for supporting our advertisers throughout the year, and for reading our community newspapers. The phone calls and emails that we receive in support of our papers are encouraging and reinforce the fact that our local newspapers fulfill a need within the Villages.
Village of Islington Times Community Newspaper Volume 01 | Issue 04
Quarterly Publication ~ Circulation 15,000 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
Village of Islington BIA P.O. Box 234, Station D, Dundas St West, Etobicoke, ON M9A 4X2 www.villageofislington.com Contact: Linda Plater E-Mail: info@villageofislington.com BIA Mobile Line: (647) 703-4802
@VillageofIsling
villageofislington
Editorial Contributors:
Toby Gardiner | Publisher
Lindsay Howe • Linda Plater
toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com
Follow us on Twitter @RJentpub and like us on Facebook @RJEntertainmentPublishing. Read all our publications on-line @ www.rjentpub.com The Village of Islington Times is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.
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graphic design
The Music Studio presents free Christmas concerts You’re invited to these free community concerts featuring local music students performing Christmas carols and festive favourites.
Montgomery’s Inn Tea Room 4709 Dundas St. W., Just east of Islington Ave. Sunday, December 8th, 2:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. Second Cup Christmas Concert 4850 Dundas St. W., Just West Of Islington Ave. Thursday, December 12th, 7:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. Creative Village Christmas Concert 4895 Dundas St. W.,Just East Of Burnhamthorpe Rd. Saturday, December 14th, 2:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M.
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For Information, Please Call The Music Studio At 416.234.9268 or Email: Ed@Themusicstudio.Ca Join Us For Some Holiday Cheer!
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Montgomery’s Inn Tea Room 4709 Dundas St. West, Just East Of Islington Avenue. Sunday, December 22nd, 2:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.
TTC Subway
Bloor St. W.
Homecare you can feel good about. We provide compassionate care while maintaining independence for seniors. Premier can help with: • Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care • Medication Reminders • Hospital Sitting
• Personal Care • Palliative Care • Overnight Stays
Contact us today to set up your free consultation at
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or infoetobicoke@homecarephs.com www.premieretobicoke.com For seniors. For independence. For quality of life.
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Villages in Toronto
Home is where Christmas is continued from front cover
By Lynda Adamson
holiday traditions becoming popular at this time that likely would have found their way to Islington Village.
To some, the designation of ‘village’ to various areas of Toronto may appear to be a recent. though charming approach to identifying neighbourhoods.
The Christmas tree is a European tradition that began to be adopted by the British in the early 1800s. It became very popular in 1848 when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert included a Christmas tree as part of their holiday celebrations.
Consider Forest Hill Village,. Bloor West Village, and our own Village of Islington. By providing an area with a name. particularly one with historic connotations, the area’s identity is enhanced. Residents and visitors alike regard the area as unique. Such is certainly the case in the Village of Islington.
The giving of gifts to friends and family was a long-held British tradition although, for a long time, one without an official representative. Father Christmas originated in England as a man dressed in green which represented the return of spring. He did not bring gifts but he did visit families at Christmas and share in the holiday feast. By 1860 however, the Father Christmas tradition had become joined with the Dutch/German Sinterklaas tradition, and the jolly chap that we know today as Santa Claus was recognized as the official gift-giver of Christmas.
And our ‘village’ is anything but recent! Once upon a time. there was a railway station at Bloor and Islington. In 1879, Canning Avenue was built to connect the new station with Islington Village’s centre at Dundas. In turn, this allowed residents to commute more easily from the village to the city of Toronto. We tend to think of commuting as an element of our contemporary lifestyles, not that of a century ago! In 1949, the Kingsway Business Men’s Association began. In 1970 the Bloor West Village Business Improvement Area was formed, followed by the Kingsway BIA when the Council for the Borough of Etobicoke passed a by-law to that effect in 1973. Our Village of Islington had to wait another 13 years for its BIA to be created in 1986. It was extended to Kipling Avenue in 2003 and to include Montgomery’s Inn in 2013. However, it takes more than a name to create the village ambience. Developing a street lined with planters of lovely flowers under a beautiful canopy of trees overhead; well-maintained, attractive shops; and a multitude of services certainly contributes to the village feeling. But, in the end, it’s the people that make the difference. When local residents frequent these businesses. they thrive and in turn, the village ambience evolves.
“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care”, as described in the poem, ‘Twas the Night before Christmas, might have become a holiday tradition in many homes of Islington Village beginning in the second half of the 19th century. Christmas cards became popular around the world in the mid-1800s. One can imagine Islington’s first postmaster, Thomas Musson, sorting Christmas cards for residents of Islington Village to pick-up at his General Store. Christmas dinner of the day consisted of mince pies that were made with minced meat until the 19th century when dried fruit and spices began to be substituted for meat, so the residents of Islington Village probably enjoyed the latter. Their Christmas dinner likely included Christmas pudding consisting of dried prunes or raisins, and suet or possibly meat. In the late 1800s, Christmas cake was added to the holiday menu. A well-fattened goose was commonly eaten as the main course, accompanied by a bounty of vegetables from each farmer’s own recent harvest.
Lynda Adamson is a local resident and contributor to the Barclay Times Newsletter
Experience the Village of Islington this Holiday Season The Village of Islington is transformed each year into a wondrous Christmas village with festive décor provided by Islington Nurseries the local family-owned supplier of year round flowers and greenery. Notice the year-round, warm white lighting that adds atmosphere to busy Dundas Street West between Islington and Kipling Avenues. Whether you live or work in the village, or only visit for the day, you feel part of a small community as the spirit of Christmas is all around.
The tradition of wassailing, which is the drinking of spiced apple cider, might have been found in Islington Village in the 1800s. People in need visited wealthier homes at Christmas time singing carols, and offering wassail and good wishes to people in exchange for food or money. These carolers might have sung carols such as, It Came upon a Midnight Clear, Away In a Manger and We Three Kings. Carols were now being written specifically for the Christmas season as music became an important part of holiday celebrations.
Though Christmas is most people’s favourite time of year, it can also be a stressful time. With the village shops and services steps away from your home, shopping doesn’t have to be stressful or time consuming. Save yourself unnecessary headaches and wasted time; avoid the hassle of battling traffic, finding parking, pushing your way through overly crowded stores, endless aisles and lineups.
My great-grandparents likely passed through Islington Village on their way to settle in Walkerton, Ontario in the late 1800s, travelling with their belongings and, more than likely, their German Christmas traditions. When the early settlers of Islington Village arrived with their Christmas traditions and beliefs, they not only brought customs that would make them feel comfortable in their new home, they also introduced new Christmas customs to Islington Village and beyond.
The Christmas season is a particularly special time in the village with decorated display windows for you to admire. Take a winter stroll to enjoy the wonder of the holiday season and see the 26 murals up close. This will help reduce some of life’s stresses, so that you can truly enjoy the present moment
Ed Lettner owns The Music Studio in Etobicoke which has offered music instruction since 1990. He is an honours graduate of the Humber College Institute of Technology music program. Ed wishes to thank Denise Harris for providing additional historical information for this article. For information about the programs at The Music Studio, please call 416-234-9268, email: ed@themusicstudio.ca or visit www. themusicstudio.ca
Many of our Etobicoke neighbours can walk or take a short drive the local businesses ready to cater to individual customer needs. Our small business owners are very knowledgeable about their products and inform you so you know everything about the item you are considering purchasing. The value of quality customer service and expert advice goes a long way to achieving your ultimate satisfaction with your purchase at any time of the year. As you know, the holiday season is the perfect time to catch up with old friends, and loved ones, and you don’t need to leave the comfort of your own neighbourhood to do this. There is a cozy coffee shop, bakery or pub right around the corner in the Village of Islington! This holiday season, why put yourself through the daunting task of scouring big box stores or shopping malls for gifts when you need search no further than the local businesses in your area? Take the time to meet the merchants in Village of Islington this holiday season and discover that there is something for everyone on your Christmas list right in your own neighbourhood!
Traditional sweet table set at Montgomery’s Inn Tea Room
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Give the Gift of a Clean Home!
Home for the Holidays “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” is a song that speaks nostalgically of many outward elements of a North American Christmas: snow, mistletoe, presents, a tree. But there’s a deeper longing in the song, something much closer to all of our hearts. It’s a longing for home.
Perfect for the Holidays!
But what is this longing for “home” really about? For some of us, perhaps the term evokes the land of our birth and childhood. For others, it brings to mind the house or apartment we grew up in, or the house we live in now. As important as these places may be to us, though, “home” is much more about the people we knew in those places, especially our parents, siblings, grandparents. More than anything else, home is about family.
Gift Certificates are available online at mollymaid.ca.
This year at St Andrew’s (3819 Bloor St W, at Six Points), we want to encourage you to come home for the holidays. Whatever holidays you may celebrate, if any, this longing for home is something we all relate to. That’s why we’ll be focussing our Sunday gatherings (10am) throughout December on three key aspects of healthy relationships: Proper Priorities (Dec 1), Constant Commitment (Dec 8), and Lasting Love (Dec 22). On Sunday, December 15, we will enjoy a play called “Christmas Chaos”, which explores how we often get caught up in the busyness of the holiday season (10am). We’ll also be having two special gatherings on Christmas Eve. The first (4pm) will be an exuberant celebration geared to children and their families. The second (7pm) will be a more reflective exploration of the seeming paradox of God, in Jesus, becoming human and homeless so that we could be invited home. And since no family gathering is complete without food, we’d also like to invite you for a meal. There is a senior’s Christmas dinner on Wednesday, December 11 at 12:30; a women’s lunch on Thursday, December 5 and January 9 at 1:30; and a community banquet on Saturday, January 11 at 5 pm.
www.mollymaid.ca
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation, in-home estimate:
(416) 232-9178 lee-colaguori@mollymaid.ca
The song ends on a particularly strong note of longing: “I’ll be home for Christmas, if only in my dreams.” The joy and warmth of home seems beyond reach, only a dream. Can you relate? Why not join us at one or more of these events? You’re invited! I may not know you, but I know Someone who does. Why not come home for Christmas this year? List of Events: Thursday, December 5, 1:30 pm – Women’s lunch Wednesday, December 11, 12:30 – Senior’s lunch Sunday, December 15, 10 am – “Christmas Chaos” Play Sunday, December 15, 7 pm – Christmas Readings and Carols Tuesday, December 24, 4 pm – Family Christmas Eve Service Tuesday, December 24, 7 pm – Traditional Christmas Eve Service Thursday, January 9, 1:30 pm – Women’s lunch Saturday, January 11, 5 pm – Community Dinner Sean Howard is the pastor of St Andrew’s Islington Presbyterian Church. His home is with his wife and three children in Etobicoke. More information about events at St Andrew’s can be found online at www.standrewsislington.org, or by calling the office at (416) 233-9800.
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Scrumptious Desserts for your Holiday Gatherings at Patricia’s Cake Creations
Work and Play Is Your Work Fun?
Patricia’s Cake Creations is a family run patisserie/café offering a vast selection of pastries, sweets, and custom cakes for all occasions including: holidays, birthdays, weddings, showers, baptisms, and engagements.
Work is hard. Suffering is good and being a good employee and a good person means you have to suffer a bit. Hogwash! Did you grow up in a family with this kind of work ethic? If so, it might be hard for you to embrace the idea that work can be fun and it’s ok to play at work. What a concept -- actually enjoying what you do every day! Some people fear fun at work because they are hung up on old work cultures and beliefs about how work should be. They might even think that acting grumpy is part of their job description because their boss and co-workers act this way.
You can choose from a mouth-watering selection of scrumptious pastries, croissants, pies, cupcakes, French macaroons, and adorable mini cakes. Enjoy a hot beverage with your pastry and order a specialty coffee, cappuccino, espresso, latte, tea or hot chocolate. Patricia’s Cake Creations also offers daily soups, and high tea (reservation required).
Remember that fun is a choice we make when it comes to work: we take risk and we give ourselves permission to have fun, let loose and just enjoy. Who would ever fathom that having fun could turn into a competitive advantage or that clients love suppliers who just let them have fun? For many new media companies set in funky new work spaces, fun is even mandatory because is lubricates creativity. New ideas born from creativity are hot commodities these days. How can companies innovate if their employees are uptight and miserable?
Co-owner Patricia Drewnowska is an award winning cake designer, and she is a perfectionist when it comes to creating the most exquisitely decorated and flavourful cakes for her customers. Her brother Konrad is a classically trained French Pastry Chef and makes the most delicious tarts, macaroons and French pastries at Patricia’s Cake Creations.
Think about how fun is often linked to satisfaction in what we do for a living. Chances are that most of us learn something and the day flies by when we laugh a bit and express ourselves. For some workers games can be used to teach important business concepts. How many role plays or simulations have you participated in where you actually got to know your colleagues and began to like them too? Did you begin to work better as a team after having shared a few laughs?
Currently Patricia’s Cake Creations is working on new Christmas tablescapes designs with some lovely desserts and cakes, perfect for the upcoming entertaining Holiday Season, working hard preparing delicious edible art for the holiday tables. Indulge your sweet tooth and visit Patricia’s Cake Creations to enjoy their delicious cakes and other desserts. You can choose from gingerbread cookies, French macaroons, truffle and meringue towers, or small boxed edible gifts perfect for family, friends, teachers, and co-workers.
Some people get hung up on a self-imposed idea of responsibility at work when there is no connection between misery and responsibility. Grumps think “oh, people won’t respect me” or “I have too much responsibility to actually enjoy my work”. On the flip side, many people see absolutely no distinction between work and play. Look at musicians and professional athletes. Why does it seem some old rock stars won’t ever retire? Maybe they are having too much fun at work! Are you having fun yet?
Konrad is developing some great mouth-watering recipes for products that will be available for sale before Christmas. Patricia’s Cake Creations is now taking orders for Christmas catering and entertaining platters. Their Bûche de Noël (yule log), molasses spice cookies, designer butter cookies, almond butter cookies and other specialty items are perfect for the season. The boxed multicoloured French macaroons make an ideal holiday gift. Patricia’s Cake Creations has received national recognition, and won competitions for their exquisite taste and designs. Most recently, Patricia’s Cake Creations won Platinum Reader’s Choice Award for the best dessert place in Bloor West Village. They have appeared on The Food Network, Breakfast Television, ET Canada, Global TV, Daytime Toronto and most recently at The Social. Lastly, Patricia’s Cake Creations has been featured in several wedding magazines including: Weddingbells, Wedluxe and Elegant Weddings.
How to Have Fun > You are responsible for your own fun; give yourself permission to have fun and take some risk. > Lead others into having fun by your example; fun catches on. > If it’s not fun, don’t do it!
Choose Patricia’s Cake Creations this season for the most scrumptious selection of holiday goodies. Order ahead for your holiday get-togethers! Patricia’s Cake Creations is located at 4130 Dundas Street West in Etobicoke at the Humber Bridge Plaza, between Prince Edward and Humber River.
Fun at Work
Contact by phone at 647-348-CAKE (2253) or email info@patriciacakes.com. Visit Patricia’s Cake Creations online at website at www.patriciacakes.com
It’s all about creating an environment that jives with your own personal idea of fun. A group of ten fun-minded workers got together one evening to talk about what fun meant to them. Here are some of the ideas they came up with: > spontaneity > selling, developing, teaching and contributing > rising to a challenge and following through > getting an adrenaline rush from a job well-done and celebrating your accomplishments > opening a new toy and being inspired with the possibility of innovation > it’s contagious > thinking differently and using words to express meaning > getting acknowledgement from a “hard-ass” > connecting with others > being free and flexible to choose what you want to do and where you want to go - often “off the beaten path”
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Getting Fit and Staying Fit at Work
Page 1
Advent 1 – Hope Sunday, December 1
Morning Worship & Holy Communion White Bag & Gift Sunday, Sunday School for Kids 9:30 & 11:15 am
By Linda Plater
Light Up the Night 2:30 pm Skating • 4:00 pm Crafts • 5:00 pm Dinner 6:30 pm Outdoor tree lighting, carol singing, cider, and cookies
Gone are the days of labour intensive outdoor jobs where coming home physically exhausted but mentally raring to go is common. As the gorgeous Indian summer fades and winter is around the corner I find myself reflecting on the days I worked in our BIA outdoors, fondly remembering the fresh air, sunshine, beautiful flowers and exercise.
Advent 2 – Peace Sunday, December 8
Morning Worship & Sunday School for Kids 9:30 & 11:15 am
As we become solidly entrenched in the knowledge economy, the world of physical labour, fitness and health is something many of us only dream of. Can you feel your neck tightening? Do you crave a decent onsite facility to work out? Does an in-house massage program sound too good to be true? We’ve all read about the multitude of physical problems arising from too many hours spent in front of a computer screen. These range from poor eyesight to carpel tunnel syndrome to seemingly expanding waistlines and thighs. Clearly there is even more need these days to be fit for work and to ward off ill health. Some of us are lucky enough to be able to just push away from our desks and take a walk outside; others find tunnelling in the underground mall a relief from circulation blockages in our legs, arms and shoulders.
Worship in the Taizé-style 8:00 pm
Advent 3 – Joy Sunday, December 15
Morning Worship & Sunday School for Kids 9:30 & 11:15 am Christmas in Islington 3:00 pm A festive community celebration of Christmas music
Whether you’re here once a week, once a year or never before, we’d love to have you join us at Islington United Church in celebration and song this Christmas.
What if you could make your job an exercise? I’m not saying that everyone become landscape architects, farmers or physical labourers, but what if you could sneak in activities at work to make your environment a little more physically mobile and your body a little more fit? I am fortunate that I can ride my bicycle to work and make my BIA inspections on foot. My eight volunteer tour guides share insightful stories as visitors visit the murals exercise and dine in the village. The tours are designed for long-time Toronto residents, and visitors to the area from near and far. Our visitors, many of them young seniors, exercise their mind, body and spirit while awakening all their senses as they come away knowing a Toronto neighbourhood’s unique cultural diversity, history, architectural gems, and best of all, the wonderful art and food!
Islington United Church Open Hearts Open Minds Open Doors
Not everyone is as lucky as me to work outdoors from time to time, but here are a few tips to get you thinking about fitness at work:
25 Burnhamthorpe Road I Toronto, ON M9A 1G9 I Canada 416-239-1131 I www.islingtonunited.org
Work while standing up, crouching or squatting. Rotate those shoulders. Flex your wrists and fingers. Try to meet with clients and colleagues while on the move. Just think how popular golf courses have become for conducting business and impressing customers. How many times have you solved an important work issue as you walked down the hall, out the door or through the park? It might take some getting used to, but every time you get off your seat, your body will thank you for it.
Get our newsletter!
Email us at newsletter@islingtonunited.org
6 Steps for Healthy Aging
Blue Christmas Worship Tuesday, December 17
A reflective service for those who are grieving 7:30 pm
Advent 4 – Love Sunday, December 22
Morning Worship & Sunday School for Kids 9:30 & 11:15 am ALIVE Worship 7:00 pm Contemporary art-based worship in an intimate setting for youth and young adults
Tuesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Family Service 5:00 pm
Carols by Candlelight 7:00 & 9:00 pm Communion by Candlelight 11:00 pm Infant and toddler care available at all services
note progress. Talk to your doctor about other forms of fitness appropriate for your abilities.
Longer life spans and aging baby boomers will combine to double the population of older Canadians over the next few decades. Heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lower respiratory diseases, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes continue to be the leading causes of death among older adults. While some risk factors are unavoidable, you can counter many others with simple lifestyle changes.
4. Eat Fruits and Vegetables Daily. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of some cancers and chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, fibre, and dozens of micronutrients that are important for good health—and that you often can’t get from a daily vitamin supplement.
While progress is being made in many areas, not all health goals have been reached. As complex as the problem is, there are health-enhancing steps you can take to ensure a long and healthy life. Many of these steps are interrelated and have a cumulative effect—the more you follow, the greater the benefits. Get started today!
Adults aged 65 years or older should eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables daily and in a rainbow of colours—each one indicates a different group of nutrients. 5. Quit Smoking. Tobacco use remains a leading preventable cause of disease, disability and death in North America. For help quitting, talk to your doctor about a cessation program that includes support.
1. Get Screened. Less than half of men and women aged 65 years or older are up-to-date on preventive services including flu vaccine, pneumonia vaccine, colorectal cancer screening, bone density test and mammography for women.
6. Take Medication for High Blood Pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of illness and death among older adults. Patients should take the initiative to monitor their blood pressure between medical visits, take medications as prescribed, tell their doctor about any side effects, and make lifestyle changes, such as eating a low-sodium diet, exercising, and stopping smoking. Taking prescribed medication is important for another no-symptom risk factor, high cholesterol. Remember, just because you can’t feel it doesn’t mean it isn’t damaging your health. Use a pill organizer to help you stay on schedule.
2. Get Vaccinated. Flu and pneumonia combined represent the seventh leading cause of death among adults 65 years or older, despite the availability of effective vaccines. Older adults should get the flu vaccine every year and get the pneumonia vaccine at least once. Don’t have a doctor visit coming up? You can get a flu shot at most chain pharmacies. 3. Be More Physically Active. Regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do for health. Physical activity can prevent many of the health problems that may come with age, including lowering the risk of falls. Get up and get walking—use a pedometer to track steps and
Gary Hepworth is the owner of Premier Homecare Services in Etobicoke. 416623-8229
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COMMUNITY CORNER Welcome to new board members: Director Ed Lettner, The Music Studio, Director Peter Luciani, Property Owner and Treasurer Janet McKenzie, Summit Natural Health. A big thank you to past board members Vern DeGuerre, Pejman Tabaie and Pierre Seunik for their contributions to the business improvement area. New volunteers are always welcome so please contact Linda at 647-7034802 if you are interested in participating in your local business association.
Fall Mural Tour Thank you Evelyn (BIA Guide) so much for a great tour on October 19, 2013. Everyone loved it! Even though many of us have lived in the area for most of our lives we were glad you were available to show us the murals, give us a history lesson and join us for tea! Look at how we almost blend into the painting! Many thanks! Sarah (Rawson) Hastie (photo of mural tour in front of Fire Brigade)
Planning Ahead? The much loved Mural Calendar is now available in limited supplies at local businesses in the Village of Islington. Its cover features Aftermath John Kuna’s depiction of the rescue and recovery mission following Hurricane Hazel. Did you know that Oct. 15, 2014 is the 6o year anniversary of this legendary hurricane that hit Toronto? If you have stories to share about this event to be published next fall, please contact Linda at info@villageofislington.com.
BIA Backgrounder How Does a BIA Operate? Size and makeup of business improvement areas (BIAs) vary greatly. BIAs can contain less than 50 businesses or over 2000 businesses. In the beginning a typical BIA consisted primarily of small retail businesses. Today’s BIA membership is far more diverse. BIAs now represent a wide variety of businesses - professional and creative services, high-tech, light industrial, restaurants, entertainment, etc. Typically, BIAs are made up of a strip along a single main street although some cover several blocks. Some identify with the ethnic makeup of their surrounding neighbourhoods. Others are located in historical sections of the City. And still others are made up of related businesses. The only common denominator is that businesses in an area share a desire to enhance their business area and improve their community. www.toronto-bia.com .
BIA News: Raising Funds for the Food Bank The Business Improvement Area (BIA) raised funds for the food bank at its annual general meeting on November 20th at Mai Bistro. A silent auction of the banners that marked the Bicentenial War of 1812 raised funds for the Mabelle Food Bank, an agency of the Daily Bread Food Bank which operates from the Islington United Church. The volunteer run Mabelle Food bank operates once every two weeks to supplement the food received from the Daily Bread Food Bank with enough staples so that each family has enough food for 3 days. Funds and food donations are always gratefully received in order to achieve this goal. To donate to this program clearly mark donations for Food Bank and leave them at 25 Burnhamthorpe Road or call the church at 416-239-1131 or David & Carol Laughton 905-279-5795 for more information.
Health and Wellness Fair 2014 In 2014 the Health and Wellness Fair will be held at the prestigious Islington Golf Club and it promises to be even more successful. For more information about participating in the fair contact Gary Hepworth BIA Vice Chair garyhepworth@ homecarephs.com or 416 623-8229.
If you would like an historic banner of your own, contact Linda Plater at info@ villageofislington.com as more banners are available.
In year one and two over 300 people attended the fair at the Islington United Church, met with local health professionals, found expert advice, heard about interesting discussion topics and learned about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Best of all, the Fair provided the members an opportunity give back to people in the community!
The 2013 Annual General Meeting Report Another successful annual general meeting of the Village of Islington Business Improvement Area was held on November 20th with 33 interested business and property owners and residents in attendance at Mai Bistro. The board was pleased to report on the accomplishments of 2013 which included: year round tree lighting, new banners, floral and festive decorations, new murals, a new integrated marketing plan with this newspaper and a spruced up web site with social media: facebook, twitter, Pinterest and even a Youtube channel. And the plans and budget to continue these programs in 2014 were approved in addition to a spring Community Cleanup, Merchant Mingle, Health and Wellness Fair, Doors Open Toronto and Culture Days events.
Welcome New Business to the Village Daniel Song, Financial Advisor Edward Jones Investments, 4889 Dundas Street West, Suite 1A Etobicoke, ON M9A 1B2 (416) 239-0415
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COMMUNITY CORNER Islington Mural Feature
This mural honours pianist Glenn Gould with his childhood piano teacher, Antonio Alberto Garcia Guerrero ~1947. A satellite branch of the Royal Conservatory of Music was located in this building from the 1950s through the 1980s. In the bottom left corner is a copy of a manuscript by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Together the elements depicted in the mural allude to the passing on of musical tradition and how humble, yet prodigious beginnings may be nurtured to great heights, as illustrated by a current audience in the conservatory’s celebrated new concert venue, Koerner Hall.
Mural Contest Winner
Congratulations to our fall’s Mural Contest winner Emilia Jajus who identified The Old Swimming Hole Emilia Jajus is a Toronto based muralist who settled in the Village of Islington neighbourhood when she immigrated to Canada 15 years ago. Greatly inspired by the murals in the area, she decided to make art her career. Today Emilia’s murals can be seen at public places, businesses and private homes. For more info about her work visit www.emiliajajus.com Emilia’s mural entitled “Fireplace” is part of “Outside the Box” a project by StART (Street ART Toronto). She designed it to bring some warmth to the cold winters in Toronto.
Prodigy by John Kuna, 2011- located at 5048 Dundas Street West.
The Village of Islington Wins the 2013 Toronto Association of Business Improvement Area’s Award for Community Service Three years in a row Islington has earned an award from the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) which represents 77 BIAs in the city. This year the Islington BIA earned the award for Community Service for its annual Health and Wellness Fair. One quarter of the Village of Islington BIA membership are in health related businesses dedicated to serving the health needs of the community. And again on April 15, 2014 the BIA is set to host and expand upon its 3rd Islington Health and Wellness Fair, a free event that provides advice and information to the public while showcasing local businesses.
Look Up The New Banners Have Arrived!
Have you taken a stroll or drive along Dundas lately and looked up? The Village of Islington has installed 35 colourful new banners. Thanks to Village Paint for their sponsorship of the new Colours of Islington banners that will fly until next spring.
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Islington Seniors’ Centre
Special Music Services & Events at Islington United Church
4968 Dundas Street West • Etobicoke 416-231-3431 islingtonseniors@bellnet.ca Christmas Luncheon on Thursday, December 12th from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m. Upstairs in the Marshall Auditorium. Pancake Breakfast on Wednesday, January 15th & Friday, February 28th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the Garden Café. Valentine’s Day Lunch and Entertainment on Thursday, February 13th from 12 from noon to 2:00 p.m. Patrick’s Day Luncheon on Thursday March 13th from 12 noon to 2 p.m.
Advent • Christmas • Epiphany Join us at Islington United Church in celebration and song this Christmas. For details call 416.239.1131 or visit www.islingtonunited.org 25 Burnhamthorpe Road (at Dundas) Christmas in Islington: A Festive Community Celebration Sunday December 15, 3:00pm Choirs & Soloists of Islington UC, with First Brass Quintet, Jubilate Handbell Ensemble, Schoenstein Organ & Congregational Carols A joyous Christmas tradition of celebrating the season with Music
Programs Membership is required to participate. Register in the Front Office 1 week prior to program start. Chair Yoga - Wednesday, January 29th to March 5th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm Program Fee: 6 weeks / $36 Chair Yoga – Gentle Hatha - Wednesday, January 29th to March 5th from 3:30 – 4:30 pm • Program Fee: 6 weeks / $36 Nordic Pole Walking – Introduction - Wednesday March 19 & March 26 from 1:00 – 2:00 pm • Program Fee: 2 weeks / $14 Nordic Pole Walking - Next Steps - Wednesday March 19 – April 23 from 2:30 – 3:30 pm • Program Fee: 6 weeks / $40 Laughter Comedy & Wellness - Thursday, February 6 - March 13 from 9:30 – 10:45 am • Program Fee: 6 weeks / $30 Learn to Knit- Wednesday, January 29th to February 19th from 1:00 – 3:00 pm Program Fee: 4 weeks / $20 Bunka - Thursday, January 9th to March 13th from 9:30 – 11:30 am Program Fee: 10 weeks / $38 Write your Life Stories - Tuesday, January 21st - February 25th from 2:30 – 4:00 pm • Program Fee: 6 weeks/$45 Book club - Monday, January 13th and Monday, February 10th 9:00 – 11:30 am Program Fee: $2 (includes light breakfast) Memory Techniques - Tuesday, March 11th - April 15th from 2:30 – 4:00 pm Program Fee: 6 weeks/$45 The Art of Conversation - Thursday, March 20th from 1:00 - 2:30 pm Workshop Fee: $5 Laugh Your Way to Well Being - Thursday, March 27th from 1:00 – 2:30 pm Workshop Fee: $5
Services with Music for the Eve of Christmas Tuesday December 24, 5,7,9 and 11:00pm Family Service – 5:00pm Junior Choir, Handbells & Organ ~ Focus on the family with ALL children participating in pageant. Lessons & Carols by Candlelight – 7:00 & 9:00pm Choirs & Soloists of Islington UC, Organ & Handbells ~ Celebration of the wonder of Christmas Communion by Candlelight – 11:00pm Contemplative service with String Orchestra & Organ ~ as we anticipate the Birth of our Messiah Carols for Epiphany Sunday January 12, 2014 7:30pm (at Royal York Road UC) Combined Choirs & Soloists of Islington & Royal York Road UCs with Strings, Organ & Piano. A concert in celebration of the season of Epiphany, & in support of Mabelle Food Programme The Gift of Music Concert Series presented by Music at Islington If you enjoy wonderful music in a beautiful space made by exceptionally talented people, you’ll be interested in the creative concerts with your friends, neighbours & families. The other Concerts of the series:
Computer courses
February 22 • Oscar Goes to Church II: Hymns on the Red Carpet Saturday 7:30pm • John Derksen & Ted Wilson, Commentators Celebrate the Great Hymns that have walked the red carpet with the famous statue. See Video clips from 10 Academy Award-nominated films with a Synopsis of each, followed by engaging Commentary & performance of the Hymn
Each Program Fee: $30 / 6 weeks (Program fee includes all course material) Pre-Registration required 1 week prior to start date! Space is limited Membership is required to participate in these programs. Level 1 – Introduction to Windows and Applications - Wednesdays, January 22nd - February 26th from 10:00 - 11:30 am Level 2 - The Internet & E-mail - Fridays, January 24th – February 28th from 10:00 - 11:30 am • Pre-requisite: Level 1
March 29 • Earth Hour by Candlelight: Organ & Readings in the Dark Saturday 8:00pm • John Derksen & Friends For Earth Hour, don’t sit at home alone in the dark. Celebrate it with an Earth Hour concert by candlelight in the wonderful glow and acoustics of Islington United Church listening to the majestic Schoenstein organ interspersed with complementary readings.
Travel The St. Lawrence Market … Hot House Restaurant … and the new Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada Tuesday, March 25th, 2014 Just $89 per Member $91 per Non Member
City of Toronto Public Health launches flu clinics Free flu shots are now available at Toronto Public Health (TPH) clinics. As well as getting the flu shot, TPH also recommends frequent and thorough hand washing, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve and staying at home when you are feeling ill. For the full flu vaccination clinic schedule please call 416-338-7600 Flu - Etobicoke Civic Centre January 9, 2014 3:00 PM - 7:30 PM Registration Deadline: January 9, 1:00 PM Appointments Available: 224
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Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association
An Opinion on Enhancing the CPP By Gary Hepworth, Chair, CARP Etobicoke
A strong voice for our community! Since 1971, the Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association (IRRA) has been advocating for its community.
The politicians are playing politics with our future and it has to stop. The Canada Pension Plan needs to be increased and everybody knows it but for some reason the politicians are not getting the message.
Mandated to promote and protect the interests, rights and responsibilities of its community members, IRRA is non-profit organization managed by a volunteer Board of Directors that meets bi-monthly to consider matters of local/civic concern. IRRA’s primary and most vital role is to provide communication for its residents, and the Association is committed to keeping its members “in the loop” about matters of local relevance via email, facebook, website and at our annual Community Meeting.
Politicians need to hear from Canadians directly – that you fully support and understand the need for the CPP enhancement and that you want them to act now to provide a better retirement future – not for you but for your children and grandchildren.
Recent action, advocacy and community initiatives of IRRA included • working with residents and local councillors to advocate at Committee of Adjustment • lobbying for the retention of Montgomery’s Inn in the face of possible closure • helping increase awareness of the proposed Humbertown development • initiating talks with Community Police Liaison Committee • participating in community meetings regarding Air Quality, Committee of Adjustment Consultation, Thorncrest Village Neighbourhood Watch, Transportation Consultation • organizing community meetings to address issues of local and city-wide concern Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association represents the area bounded by Bloor on the south, Islington on the east, Rathburn on the north, and the Hydro lines west of Kipling. All residents within this area are urged to become members of IRRA to help foster community-building and stay informed. Annual membership fee is only $5 per household. We look forward to having you join us!
If you accept the fact that Canadians are not saving enough for their retirement and need a better vehicle with which to do so then the settled opinion is that increasing the CPP is the best way to do that. All the other options have been tried. The aim here is to put enough money away so that once the pay cheques stop, by choice or not, the invested savings have earned sufficient money to allow you to draw enough to live on and preferably to maintain your standard of living. Research shows that a sizeable number of Canadians will face a significant decline in their standard of living because they are not saving enough. But also because their investments are not making enough returns – especially now in the low interest rate environment.
Carolyn McGee, President Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association www.irra.ca • Inquiries: 416-233-7468
Dollar for dollar, you can’t buy a retirement pension any more cheaply than purchasing additional units of the CPP, if you could, unless you’re lucky enough to belong to a defined benefit plan at your workplace. Two-thirds of working Canadians don’t have any workplace pension plan. The CPP or any large defined benefit plan is able to generate enough investment income to pay your lifetime pension benefits. In fact, it is not your contributions that pay for these benefits but the investment income which pays 80% of those benefits. So why has a simple retirement investment option become so political? Primarily because you can’t have it unless the politicians agree to amend the CPP. And that takes 2/3 of the provinces with 2/3 of the Canadian population plus the federal government. It happens that there is now a consensus of enough of the provinces necessary to fulfill that formula but for some reason, the federal government has refused to consent and just won’t budge – despite the fact it was federal finance minister Flaherty who proudly made the commitment in June 2010 for a modest enhancement to the CPP. To help make politics align with common sense, it’s time to tell your federal and provincial politicians that they should act now to improve the CPP. If not now, When?
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Canada EU Trade Agreement – Opening Canada to New Markets By Bernard Trottier, MP Etobicoke - Lakeshore
Today, with one in five Canadian jobs dependent on exports, our prosperity hinges on opening new markets for Canadian goods, services and investment.
Families in Etobicoke - Lakeshore will have greater access to European goods at a lower cost, as 98% of all tariffs, both ways, will be removed. This will significantly boost trade, investment and job opportunities for all Canadians.
This is why our Conservative Government launched the most ambitious trade agenda in Canadian history. We are working to open new markets to create jobs and opportunities for all Canadians. Prime Minister Stephen Harper recently announced that Canada has reached an agreement in principle on a trade agreement with the European Union.
Our local businesses, and those across Canada, will have access to half a billion affluent customers – the world’s single largest market. With this agreement, the number of countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement will triple from 14 to 42. It is expected to inject $12 billion per year in Canada’s economy. What’s more, our Government is also keeping the three pillars of Canada’s supply management system intact. This will help ensure Canadian industries are protected, while still gaining access to the world’s largest market.
This is the biggest deal Canada has ever made. Whether you are a fisherman in Atlantic Canada, a forestry worker in Québec, an auto-worker in Ontario, a Prairie farmer, or an engineer from the West – you will benefit from the CanadaEurope Trade Agreement.
This historic win for Canadians highlights Canada’s continued leadership on the world’s stage. With the international community marred by ongoing political and economic uncertainty, Canada’s continued political and economic stability is the envy of the world’s largest economies.
It will open new markets to Canadian exporters throughout Europe and generate significant benefits, jobs and opportunities for all Canadians. The benefits of this agreement are equivalent to creating almost 80,000 new jobs or increasing the average Canadian household’s annual income by $1,000.
The signing of this agreement is an important step for Canada’s continued prosperity. Our Conservative Government will continue to focus on creating jobs and opportunities for all Canadians.
5 actors & a trunk full of Magic!
Humber River Shakespeare Co. presents A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Humber River Shakespeare Co presents their 6th Annual tour of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
Adapted from Charles Dickens’ Novella by Sean Wayne Doyle and Kevin Hammond • Touring from Dec 5-29 Directed by Kevin Hammond • Cast: Claire Frances Muir, Kevin Hammond, Mark Huisman, Christopher Kelk, Sara Moyle
Back by popular demand, the Humber River Shakespeare Company proudly presents its annual production of the Dickens holiday classic, A Christmas Carol.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
2013 Touring Schedule: December 5 - 29 Dec 5 • Montgomery’s Inn, 7pm 4709 Dundas St. W, Toronto Dec 6 • Melville White Church, 7pm 15962 Mississauga Rd, Caledon Dec 7 • Montgomery’s Inn, 2pm 4709 Dundas St. W, Toronto Dec 8 • McMichael Canadian Art Collection, 2:30pm 10365 Islington Ave, Vaughan (performance included with Gallery Admission) December 10 • Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, 7pm 313 Main Street, Schomberg December 11 • St. Paul’s Runnymede Church, 7:30pm 404 Willard Avenue, Toronto December 12 • Montgomery’s Inn, 7pm 4709 Dundas St. W, Toronto December 13 • Montgomery’s Inn, 7pm 4709 Dundas St. W, Toronto December 14 • Aurora Cultural Centre, 2pm 22 Church, Aurora December 15 • Alton Mill Arts Centre, 2pm 1402 Queen Street West, Alton December 17 • Casa Loma, 7pm 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto December 20 • Zion Church Cultural Centre, 7pm 1650 Finch Ave East, Toronto December 21 • Montgomery’s Inn, 2pm & 7pm 4709 Dundas St. W, Toronto December 28 • Newmarket Theatre, 2pm & 7:30pm 505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket December 29 • Newmarket Theatre, 2pm 505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket (tickets available through Newmarket Theatre Box Office: 905-953-5122)
This December, gather with friends and family as five enormously talented actors, armed with exquisite costumes, masks, puppets and a trunk full of other story-telling treasures, bring to life the timeless tale of greed, ghosts and salvation. This year’s tour of A Christmas Carol will visit 10 unique venues including the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, Alton Mill, Zion Church Cultural Centre and Casa Loma. Now entering its seventh season, the Humber River Shakespeare Company continues to offer professional and accessible theatre year-round to communities in the Humber Watershed and beyond - from touring Shakespeare-in-the-Park in the summer, to innovative and original Canadian works in unique spaces in the spring. Humber River Shakespeare’s adaptation of A Christmas Carol started as a reading for three holiday events in Toronto. After two years the script was expanded, scenes, masks and puppetry were added, and the result is an hour long production that audiences have embraced as an annual tradition. HRSC Artistic Director Kevin Hammond explains the motivation behind the production: “Performing ‘A Christmas Carol’ is our way of giving back and sharing a universal message of hope, charity and kindness. It is a treat and an honour to perform the show each year and I am always amazed at how moved the audiences are”. Whether by the fire in a Victorian era hotel at Montgomery’s Inn, picturesque gallery theatre of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, the vaulted castle walls of Casa Loma, or in the beautifully conceived Alton Mill, this charming one hour performance will warm the hearts of Tiny Tims and Scrooges alike. Seating is limited. Guaranteed tickets are available on line at www.humberrivershakespeare.ca(Adults: $20, Children $10)
Tickets: $20 (Adults), $10 (Children) Tickets on sale at www.humberrivershakespeare.ca or call 416-209-2026 for more info
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HERITAGE GROUPS IN ETOBICOKE Have you ever wondered who looks after the preservation of Etobicoke’s heritage? You may not be aware of the many heritage organizations that work, often behind the scenes, to celebrate and protect Etobicoke’s past, primarily through the efforts of their generous volunteers! Here are brief profiles of eight of these Etobicoke organizations:
NEW TORONTO HISTORICAL SOCIETY New Toronto is located in southern Etobicoke on the shore of Lake Ontario. It was incorporated as a village in 1913, and became part of Etobicoke again in 1967. The aim of the New Toronto Historical Society is to preserve and promote the history of the former Town of New Toronto. They hold regular history lectures and recently coordinated the community’s 100th anniversary celebrations. www.newtorontohistorical.com UNITED EMPIRE LOYALISTS’ SOCIETY OF CANADA, TORONTO BRANCH The Toronto Branch of the UELAC preserves, promotes and celebrates the history and traditions of the Loyalist epoch in Canadian history by uniting the descendants of Loyalist families. As a collective group, they work to increase public awareness of the Loyalist contributions to the Greater Toronto Area. They hold monthly speaker meetings, publish a newsletter and maintain a research library and archives. www.ueltoronto.ca
APPLEWOOD Applewood is an historic house built ca. 1852 by Peter Shaver. It was the birthplace of his grandson, James Shaver Woodsworth, a social reformer and founder of the CCF party. In 1980, a group of concerned citizens saved the house from demolition and then incorporated as The James Shaver Woodsworth Homestead Foundation, which has overseen the management of Applewood for over 30 years. Today, this house provides a charming 1860s setting for marriage ceremonies, meetings and tours. Special events are held throughout the year, including outdoor summer concerts. www.applewoodshaverhouse.org
WESTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY The Weston Historical Society focuses on preserving and promoting the history of the former Town of Weston, the western portion of which was in Etobicoke. They hold regular history lectures. They have also been occupied since 2004 in a massive project to establish three Heritage Conservation Districts to ensure the preservation of their many heritage properties. www.heritageweston.com Every year, on the first Thursday after Labour Day, Montgomery’s Inn holds a Corn Roast and Heritage Fair. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about each of these heritage groups. This event also has great food, music, activities for kids, tours of the Inn, an antique show, and more.
ETOBICOKE HISTORICAL SOCIETY Since 1958, this volunteer society has been dedicated to researching, documenting, preserving, and celebrating of the history of the former Township of Etobicoke. They hold regular history lectures at Montgomery’s Inn, publish a newsletter focusing on Etobicoke’s history, offer historical walking tours, give talks on Etobicoke history, and maintain archives that tell the story of Etobicoke’s past. They also proactively lobby for the preservation of Etobicoke’s historic properties. www.etobicokehistorical.com
Note your calendar now for September 4, 2014, 5-8 pm, and come to this fun and informative event! By Denise Harris, Past President of the Etobicoke Historical Society and our friend in keeping local heritage alive and well in Islington.
ETOBICOKE YORK COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PANEL In Toronto, four Community Preservation Panels are appointed by Toronto City Council - one panel for each area represented by a Community Council. The Etobicoke York Community Preservation Panel, therefore, acts as an advocate for heritage matters within the Etobicoke York Community Council geographic area. They make recommendations to Community Council on heritage properties regarding requests to demolish or modify, list on the city’s inventory of heritage properties, designate, etc. All members of the panel are volunteers who research and evaluate the heritage value of these properties according to provincial guidelines, and depute at Community Council meetings. LA SOCIÉTÉ D’HISTOIRE DE TORONTO This group brings the history of French Ontario to light by preserving historic documents, leading guided tours, holding exhibitions and workshops, publishing brochures, and conducting research projects. In 2011 they opened a marked walking trail called “The Shared Path”, which follows the course of the Humber River between Dundas St. W. and Lake Ontario, highlighting French, English and Aboriginal heritage sights along its route. www.sht.ca MONTGOMERY’S INN MUSEUM Montgomery’s Inn is one of nine museums owned and operated by City of Toronto. This restored former inn and tavern was built in 1830 by Irish immigrants Thomas and Margaret Montgomery. It reflects life in 1847, a heyday for innkeepers. Today the Inn offers tours, exhibitions, afternoon tea, a research library, a large collection of old Etobicoke photos, educational and recreational programs for all ages, an outdoor bake oven, event space for rent and a gift shop. www.montgomerysinn.com
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Finance tips for Santa
Brought to you by: Lola Macanowicz, CFP,CLU,CHS,CIP Certified Financial Planner Santa’s on a tight deadline. He’s got less than 4 weeks to make sure all presents are packed and his reindeer are fit to take flight. The end of year is also a crucial time for last minute financial planning.
• If Santa was planning a TFSA withdrawal in early 2014, he should consider withdrawing the funds by December 31, 2013 so he would not have to wait until 2015 to re-contribute the amount.
“Santa is not only Canadian, he is also a prominent philanthropist, business owner, senior citizen, extensive traveler and last of all, a taxpayer,” says Richa Hingorani, regional financial planning consultant, RBC Financial Planning. “Because of that, he needs to take into account several taxation and financial planning considerations, as do many Canadians.” Here are some tips.
• Santa has planned for his grandchildren’s education and is planning to maximize their 2013 allowable RESP contributions by December 31, 2013 • Santa is an (incorporated) business owner with an eternity of active years ahead of him. As such, he should consider opening an Individual Pension Plan (IPP). An IPP is structured to provide tax relief for the corporation and enhanced retirement savings (more than an RRSP).
• Charitable donations. Santa is one of the world’s most prominent philanthropists. Fortunately, most of his donations will be made by the December 31 deadline so that credit can be made on his 2013 tax return. • Income Splitting. This is an important consideration as Mrs. Claus is not (as far as we know) employed. Santa might want to consider income splitting to minimize his annual tax liability by using a prescribed rate loan to Mrs. Claus. Depending on the amount loaned (the current interest rate is one per cent), the amount of tax paid by Santa could be substantially reduced.
• Santa will need some hard-earned relaxation after the holiday season. As a Snowbird heading south for the winter, he must remember if he stays in the U.S. for more than 183 days in two consecutive years, he may be considered to be liable for U.S. income tax.
• Santa does extensive travelling. Because of that, he needs out-of-country travel insurance for his Christmas Eve flight. He should also consider out-of-country medical insurance, just in case.
• Santa looks good in red, but most of us want to avoid red. Don’t spend what you don’t have therefore trying to either add to your savings or not add to your existing debt. Remember what the season is all about.
• Is Santa getting ready to RRIF? If Santa has turned 71 in 2013, he can make a final contribution to his RRSP before converting it into a RRIF or registered annuity.
These tips highlight just a few of the ways Santa can act now to benefit from tax savings when he goes to file his return. But keep in mind that tax and financial planning is a year round affair.
• If Santa were between ages 60 and 64 in 2013 and is considering taking CPP pension benefits prior to 65, he might wish to apply by December 31, 2013. The per month reduction rate changes in 2014.
For more information on reducing taxes and overall planning, Santa always consults his certificated financial planner and tax advisor well in advance of tax filing. Segments originally published on Advisor.ca
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