Year 9. Issue 18. Spring 2018 www.magazinediscover.com CAD$6.50
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TAPIOCA BRASIL Brazilian entrepreneurs launch their own brand in Canada
CANADA: Mississauga is getting smarter and inspiring other cities NORTHERN PORTUGAL: 5 cities to get lost in
The Theatre Circo is a 20th-century, Portuguese revivalist theatre, in the civil parish of São João do Souto, municipality of Braga. By Sérgio Freitas
CONTENTS
CONTRIBUTORS
BRAZIL PAGE
08
TOURISM
A piece of paradise called Jericoacoara Ingrid Coifman is a journalist who specializes in technology, economics, and tourism; her portfolio includes Culture TV, CBN Radio, McDonalds and Microsoft.
CANADA PAGE
12
EDUCATION
Specialization courses bring Brazilians to Canada
PAGE
14
SPECIAL REPORT
Mississauga is getting smarter and inspiring other cities
Giselle Norões is a journalist with work experience in TV, radio, magazine and digital media.
PAGE
20
COVER | TAPIOCA
TAPIOCA BRASIL: Brazilian entrepreneurs launch their own brand in Canada Jandy Sales
PAGE
22
COMMUNITY
16 Leaders recognized by the “Davenport Canada 150 Leadership Awards”
PAGE
26
SPORT
Antonio Lennert : Breaking the ice on a surfboard Luis Aparício
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29
is a freelance journalist with experience in radio, television, newspaper, and magazine. He worked as a producer and editor for a Brazilian broadcasting company and was awarded three prizes as a documentarist.
MEDIA
Discover magazine wins award in Canada
is a freelance journalist with experience in daily news in Portugal.
PORTUGAL PAGE
32
Rosana Dias Lancsarics
TOURISM
Northern Portugal: 5 cities to get lost in
REGULARS PAGE
06
PAGE
YOUR LETTERS
24
is a journalist and Public Relations officer. She worked for companies such as Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper, Exame Magazine, Fiat Automoveis and Embraer. In Canada, she has been involved with the Toronto Pan Am/ Parapan Games, and Toronto Blue Jays.
NEWS IN BRIEF www.magazinediscover.com | DISCOVER | 2018 | 03
FROM THE PUBLISHER
We share this achievement with our readers
O Lucas Holts, left, and Diogo Calbus, Osh Bites managers, and DISCOVER magazine’s publisher, Leila Monteiro Lins at the launch party and tasting event of “Tapioca Brasil” at the Távora Supermarket in Mississauga. Photographer Armando Chin. Founder | Executive Director Leila Monteiro Lins Director Teresa Oliveira Executive Editor Ingrid Coifman Contributors Francisco Alvim Giselle Norões Jandy Sales Luis Aparício Rosana Dias Lancsarics Translator Rafael Alcantara Copy Editor Cecilia Chin Joan Sheppard Art Director Rosana Dias Lancsarics Photographers Armando Chin (Canada) Diego Barros (Brazil) Marketing Rodrigo Diniz (Brazil) Richard Turner (Canada) marketing@magazinediscover.com Frequency Is published twice a year DISCOVER magazine is member of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) Awards for the best editorial and visual concept and services to the Portuguese-speaking community in Canada - 2017.
PUBLISHER INFORMATION: LML COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING INC. Contact: Contact: Leila Monteiro Lins Email: leila@magazinediscover.com Website: www.magazinediscover.com Phone: 1- 647- 227-5514 Toronto, Canada Distribution: Canada (Halifax, GTA, London, Guelph, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon & Vancouver). ISSN nº1920-7859 Follow us on: Twitter: @Mag_Discover Facebook: MagazineDiscover Instagram: MagazineDiscover
ur team was honoured and thrilled with the presentation of the award bestowed upon us by the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC). DISCOVER magazine was selected for “best editorial, visual concept, and services provided to the Portuguese-speaking community in Canada.” We wanted to share this achievement with all our readers, community members and supporters, who are the source of our inspiration in writing important stories that are happening in our multicultural society. It has been nine years of dedication and hard work to promote Canada, appealing to the Portuguese and Brazilian communities. We are proud of building a publication that has a strong online presence and continues to expand in its print format. In this celebratory edition, we have brought one of the most beloved Brazilian starches to the cover page. The “tapioca revolution” arrived in Toronto with a delicious taste that is gluten free. And who would NEPMCC president Thomas Saras and DISCOVER have thought there is publisher Leila Monteiro Lins. surfing in Canada? You will learn the story of surfer Antonio Lennert, who is riding the waves in below zero temperatures. In our Special Report, Mississauga, the sixth largest city in the country, has built a “Smart City” through technology, connecting public and private sectors. DISCOVER also recognized the work of Angela Mesquita, a large contributor to our community. The entrepreneur was recognized among 16 leaders for her role in making a better city through the “Davenport Canada 150 Leadership Awards.” In our Tourism pages, we focused on Northern Portugal, a fantastic region well-known for its medieval hilltop villages and castles, as well as mountains and wineries. We hope you visit soon! Thank you very much for following Discover!
For advertisement or subscription: Please contact us at: marketing@magazinediscover.com Cover price: $6.50 | Subscription: $12 per year (2 issues) The information contained in this publication has been obtained from sources the proprietors believe to be correct. However, no legal liability can be accepted for any errors. No part of the publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
Leila Monteiro Lins Publisher leila@magazinediscover.com
04 | 2018 | DISCOVER
YOUR LETTERS
The newsroom continues to receive many compliments and words of encouragement from our readers in Canada, Brazil and Portugal. We welcome those comments and look forward to your ideas and feedback.
I’ve enjoyed the magazine since 2010 and I especially like its new uncomplicated format aiming at bringing together the Brazilian, the Portuguese and the Canadian communities. In a similar way to “Discover”, we at Lucalex, the company I started in Toronto in 2012, focus on creating business opportunities for Brazilian companies to develop in Canada. And stories like the special report on Hamilton, from the last issue, help readers learn more about the country I live - and love - and hopefully ignite a spark on the creation of more bridges between these economies.
I enjoyed reading the summer 2017 Issue of Discover Magazine, particularly the cultural and community highlights of Brazil, Canada, and Portugal. The beautiful features of Chapada Diamantina and the Algarve’s farmers’ markets captured my imagination and left me yearning to travel in the near future. I also appreciated reading about Hamilton and learning about a few new sights and sounds! Thank you to the Discover team for all your hard work! Jason Shim
Marcelo Andrade Managing Director Lucalex Holdings Inc. Toronto, Canada
Toronto, Ontario
BRAZIL | Tourism
A piece of paradise called
Jericoacoara By Giselle Noroes | Photos by Renato Andrade
J
ericoacoara, located in Ceara state, is so much more than just one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. It is the perfect refuge for those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. You will be staying in a small village where the streets are sandy and very few cars are permitted.
Transfer from Jijoca to Jericoacoara The best way to get there is the Jijoca-Jericoacoara transfer through the dunes. It might not be the most comfortable way, but it is certainly the most beautiful. The ideal ride is done during the day on a “Pau de Arara� (a flat bed truck used for transportation) or by dune buggies. 08 | 2018 | DISCOVER
Jericoacoara Village
View of “Duna Por de Sol”
The journey takes about four hours from Fortaleza, the capital of Ceara. However, a new airport was built in Jericoacara in July 2017 giving visitors the option to take weekly flights departing from São Paulo, Campinas and Recife.
Itinerary Tips Among some of the unforgettable tours, make sure to visit the “Duna do Por do Sol”, hike the trails to Pedra Furada, go diving in the Azul, Paraiso and Tatajuba lagoons, stop by the Árvore da Preguiça (Sloth Tree), Mangue Seco and much more. The lagoons have crystal clear water and the scenery is breathtaking in this tropical paradise. A curious fact is the hammocks are strategically placed by the lagoons inviting the visitor to relax and get a tan.
What to do in the evening
The night life in the village of Jericoacoara is an
Pedra Furada, one of the most famous attractions of Jeri is a thirty-minute walk away from Jericoacoara beach.
adventure in itself. The entertainment program includes the Forró da Dona Amélia (on Wednesdays and Fridays), the Samba da Benção (on Fridays) and Reggae (on Wednesdays) as well as food and drink stalls on the main street. For those who prefer a quieter evening, there are also restaurants and bars with live music. Among the seafood restaurants are the Tamarindo and the Lagosteiro. Some restaurants offer the “menu of the day” with a fixed price.
Banana pie
Remember... • To wear sunscreen and to bring comfortable clothes & shoes • To have cash on you (no ATM’s) • Five days is enough to visit the area with no rush
Don’t miss Tia Angelita’s banana pie You must go to Tia Angelita. It is a pretty simple cafe where you can get one of the most delicious banana pies you’ll ever eat. Jericoacoara, or Jeri as many like to call it, is truly a paradisiacal place that enchants and delights all visitors and locals alike. The strong winds bring another attraction for those who love water sports such as kite-surfing and stand up paddle boarding.
Pineapple shrimp is among one of the several delicacies that can be found in the area.
WHERE TO STAY Pousada My Blue (www.mybluehotel.com.br) Daily rates: Average daily rates go from R$180 to R$300 (CAD 70 to CAD 115) Albergue Tirol (www.hosteljericentral.wixsite.com/hosteltirol) Daily rates: Average daily rates go from R$30 to R$55 (CAD 12 a CAD 21)
GETTING THERE Bus (www.guichevirtual.com.br) By bus from the Fortaleza Bus Station (Rodoviária) – tickets start at R$47 (CAD 18) Plane (www.decolar.com) Roundtrip plane tickets start at R$800 (CAD 308) from Campinas.
DAILY TOURIST TAX A daily tourist tax was introduced in September 2017. BRL 5/day, around CAD 2.) People with disabilities, senior citizens over the age of 60 and children up to the age of 12 are exempt.
Young Brazilians choose Canada to study. In their travel plan they have a specialization course, a job and the realization of the dream of living in a country that is synonymous with well-being. By Shutterstock
CANADA | Education
Specialization courses bring Brazilians to Canada Report & photos by Jandy Sales
L
iving in a country that offers better quality of life and schools with an international level of education has attracted a lot of young Brazilians to Canada. According to the Belta association, which brings together student exchange agencies, nearly 250,000 young people decided to study abroad in 2016. According to the association, Canada is one of Brazilian students’ first choices to study English or French, but they are no longer coming to Canada to study language only. Professional qualification is now the watchword. They land with the objective to achieve professional success and to become permanent residents.
International Marketing
This is the case of Aline Gomes, 32 years old. She had a solid professional career in Curitiba - the capital of the state of Parana, where she worked for an Argentinean multinational company. In 2016, Aline landed in Toronto to specialize in the field of trade marketing. “It was a plan that required a lot of sacrifice and investment” she said. The student, who is originally from the city of Marília, Sao Paulo, planted the seed back in 2011 when she came to Canada to study English. She fell in love with the country, returned to Brazil, married and convinced her husband, Luiz Alberto, to accompany her on her trip back to Canada. Aline studied Business Administration with an emphasis in Aline Gomes chose Canada to Foreign Trade in Brazil. In Toronto, study International Marketing she joined the Pathway program - a course that empowers international students to the Canadian academic life. She is now pursuing a postgraduate degree at Humber College where she is attending Global Business Management. Since the work permit is linked to the spouse’s student visa, Aline’s husband got a job in the same area he worked in Brazil: accounting.
Felipe Freire uses a coffee shop as an extension of his office for business meetings
Immigration options through academic and professional qualifications
Changing Careers Felipe Freire, 33, followed Aline’s path. But the São Paulo native, with a music degree, changed his country and profession at the age of 27. After arriving in Canada, he completed the Global Business Management course in July 2014 and got a job offer a month after that. Today, Felipe works for a plastic and acrylic products distribution centre where he manages a portfolio with more than 300 clients. This paulistano (people who were born in the capital of Sao Paulo) experienced some adversity while working at his first job in Canada. He attended an accent reduction course as he had been warned he might risk losing customers - an attitude which he now sees as a prejudiced one. “I didn’t feel like confronting them, otherwise I would have lost my job.”
Canada Forever Thanks to his academic background and professional experience in Canada, Felipe, who is married and father of two children, both born here, obtained permanent residence through the Express Entry program. Aline is still trying to get her permanent residence. She will apply to stay in Canada permanently after her graduation in August.
There are federal and provincial immigration programs for students and qualified professionals. Express Entry is a federal program and takes into account factors such as the candidate’s age, education level, work experience and English proficiency. The Skilled Worker and the Skilled Trade provincial programs are based on the candidate’s background: years of relevant work experience, academic background, certifications and proficiency in English and / or French. The Canadian Experience Class is for those who have at least one year of working experience (1560h) in Canada in particular areas. Provincial Nominee Programs nominate candidates based on the results of the Express Entry program. “The student should choose a study program that fits their needs, keeping in mind the requirements and the demands of Canadian job market,” said Emerson Fernandes, CEO of Canada Without Borders - a Sao Paulo - based company that provides immigration advice to exchange students and general immigration advice as well. More info: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.asp
Downtown Mississauga. Courtesy: City of Mississauga
CANADA | Special Report
MISSISSAUGA is getting smarter and inspiring other cities
By Jandy Sales
F
or tens of thousands of people landing in Canada daily, Mississauga is the gateway into the country through Toronto Pearson International Airport. With a population of just over 720,000, according to the 2016 census, it’s the sixth largest city in the country and its location, in the heart of the Greater Toronto Area, is considered strategic. Mississauga is also a destination for thousands of people traveling on the major highways such as the Trans-Canada (401) in the province of Ontario. In addition to that, the country’s three main railways: Canadian National and Pacific Railway, as well as Metrolinx – also pass through the city.
14 | 2018 | DISCOVER
Good governance and credibility teaming up to attract investments With 480 parks and forests, Mississauga ended the year of 2017 on a good note. The Cycling Master Plan – a project approved in 2010 with popular participation will be receiving $2.3 million dollars. The project aims to achieve the total integration of the Mississauga cycling network. The funds are part of the first installment to the Ontario Municipal Commuter Cycling Program.
CANADA | Special Report | MISSISSAUGA
David J.Culham Trail. Courtesy: City of Mississauga
In the field of education, the demand for university courses offered by the University of Toronto in Mississauga has been growing since 2002 to an average of 1,000 students per year. For the 14th consecutive year, the city of Mississauga has been able to maintain a Triple-A credit rating which generates greater credibility in attracting investments. Not to mention that the city has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in North America.
Smart City Mississauga is the first Canadian city to become a Virtual Campus, offering public digital access service to more than 80,000 post-secondary schools via Wi-Fi. Mississauga has been strengthening the concept of Smart City through connectivity between the public and the private sector and the use of state-of-the-art technology.
The positive legacy of “Hurricane Hazel”
Shawn Slack, Mississauga’s director of information Technology, took part of the “Connected Smart Cities” in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, last year. Photo Courtesy: CCBC.
In the city’s recent history, Mississauga experienced the so called “ Hurricane Hazel” phenomenon in reference of the political strength of Hazel McCallion, 97 years old, who was the mayor for almost four decades. Bonnie Crombie, the current mayor, is 58 years old. She was elected with the support of Hazel McCallion in November 2014.
CANADA | Special Report | MISSISSAUGA
Inauguration ceremony of the Biolab unit in Mississauga. Among those present, the management team of Biolab; the mayor of Mississauga, Bonnie Crombie (next to the plaque); Ontario Finance Minister, Charles Sousa (center); The Minister of Economic Development and Growth, Brad Duguid (far right), and the Brazilian General Consul in Toronto, Ana Lélia Benincá Beltrame (right). Photo by Jandy Sales
INTERVIEW: Mississauga’s Mayor Bonnie Crombie The current mayor of Mississauga, Bonnie Crombie, talked to DISCOVER Magazine about the city’s latest advances and strengthening the relationship between Mississauga and Brazil. On October 19, Brazilian group Biolab Farmacêutica opened its Research & Development Center in Mississauga. The group, which received initial investments of $56 million, will be the core of the company’s internationalization process in important markets, such as United States, Canada, and the European Union. Biolab is the first 100% national company to have a research center abroad. DISCOVER - What are some of the benefits for companies to establish their businesses in Mississauga? Mayor Bonnie Crombie - When we undertake international investment missions, we highlight why these companies should join the 1,400 multinational firms and 71 Fortune 500 businesses that have chosen Mississauga. We have one of the lowest corporate tax rates in North America. We hold the line on property taxes. Mississauga is strategically located in the heart of the Toronto Region
linked by 400 series highways and continental railways; home to Canada’s largest airport Pearson International. We’re working with Toronto Global, our new foreign-direct investment agency to close transformational business deals.
DISCOVER - How has the Mississauga International Partnership Program strengthened business opportunities in Brazil? Crombie - I undertook my first Economic Development Office (EDO) Investment Mission in 2015 to South America and in particular, Brazil. South America was chosen by Mississauga for an investment mission because of its large and internationally recognized life sciences industry. Mississauga is Canada’s second largest life sciences sector by employment – enhanced by the ongoing and innovative work at Trillium Health Partners.
www.magazinediscover.com | DISCOVER | 2018 | 17
CANADA | Special Report | MISSISSAUGA
Minister of Finance and MPP for Mississauga Charles Sousa.
CHARLES SOUSA “Investing in communities like Mississauga is part of our plan to grow Ontario’s economy and create jobs” DISCOVER - As a Member of Provincial Parliament Mississauga South, what’s your overall contribution to the improvement of the municipality? Charles Sousa - Our government is undertaking the largest investment in Ontario’s history - $190 billion over 13 years - to build better hospitals, schools, roads and transit. I am proud to advocate for that funding to support a new LRT (Light Rail Transit) in Mississauga and reduce congestion, as well as investing more in hospitals to reduce patient wait times. I believe in a balanced approach that is both fiscally prudent and socially progressive. It’s critical to invest and diversify our economy. That’s why we are making these strategic investments to be more competitive while balancing the budget. Our plan has resulted in the lowest unemployment rate in 17 years. We’re making life more affordable for the residents of Mississauga and across Ontario through new programs like free tuition and free pharmacare. DISCOVER - As a Luso-Canadian, what do you think of the Portuguese participation in the Canadian economy? Sousa - The Portuguese community in Ontario is active, mature and involved in every sector of the economy. I’m proud to see Portuguese leaders in a variety of fields including the trades, law, medicine, science, and politics. Our Diaspora has grown, it’s strong, and we have an opportunity to build upon it. Portugal is a gateway to Europe and our language is a gateway to South America through Brazil. It will help foster trade relations and build a stronger economy.
18 | 2018 | DISCOVER
“As a Portuguese-Canadian, I am truly honoured to have had the wonderful opportunity to represent Mississauga-East from 2003-2011 as the Member of Provincial Parliament. Today, as the Member of Parliament for Mississauga East-Cooksville, I continue to love my role as a public servant - it keeps me connected to the people in our community. I have the pleasure and privilege to speak with them about their concerns and be a “strong voice” for them back in Ottawa. Thanks to Ms. Leila Monteiro Lins, Publisher for Discover Magazine, their editorials on Canada 150 and Hamilton brought back personal memories of my own immigrant experience. I always say that Canada is the greatest place on earth, because this is where we have the opportunity to celebrate where we come from and to cherish our rich heritage. Always proud to represent Mississauga East-Cooksville, a true embodiment of the Canadian dream, with the perfect blend of long-time residents and new-immigrants!”
Peter Fonseca Member of Parliament for Mississauga East-Cooksville
Diogo Cabus, left, and Lucas Holtz, Osh Bites managers.
CANADA | Business
Tapioca Brasil
The taste that you already love with a brand new look By Leila Monteiro Lins | Photos by Armando Chin
Brazilian entrepreneurs Diogo Cabus, 32, from Maceió and Lucas Holtz, 30, from Salvador hosted a launch party and tasting event of “Tapioca Brasil” at Távora Supermarket in Mississauga. The brand which was created especially for the Canadian market, debuted in February this year. Until recently, they worked with an existing tapioca brand in Brazil, but decided to face the challenge of creating their own brand with a modern package that features a “Ziploc” type seal, allowing refrigerator storage and easy use. In addition, “Tapioca Brasil” has a bilingual presentation, in English and French. The partnership, which started in December 2015 with the creation of the company Osh Bites, has proven to be successful. “Diogo is the artist focused more on sales and marketing and I am the magician responsible for the financial and logistics part,” says Lucas. 20 | 2017 | DISCOVER
Tapioca Brasil
Launching their own brand was certainly a daring step to take. “Tapioca Brasil” is available in 20 Portuguese stores across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and one in Calgary. The expansion plan, according to Lucas is to start distribution later in the year in three more provinces and the United States in 2019.
Tasting of “Tapioca Brasil” at the Tavora Supermarket in Mississauga.
Challenges, competition and future plans After conducting market research, engineers Lucas and Diogo identified a demand for tapioca by Brazilians living in Canada and therefore decided to start looking for suppliers in the northeast and southeast regions of the country. To their surprise, four competing companies appeared on the market, hindering the sale of their first container. “We had to work hard to conquer the market,” says Diogo.
Tapioca and its benefits Tapioca is a starch extracted from cassava root. In the northern and northeastern regions of Brazil, tapioca is a typical breakfast dish and a daily snack for many people. Who would have imagined that tapioca starch which can be served in so many ways - with butter, condensed milk, cheese among other fillings, would actually become a buzz word in a healthy lifestyle world? One of the main reasons tapioca has gained so much popularity recently is because it is gluten-free and can be used as an alternative to wheat flour to thicken up food.
CANADA | Community
16 Leaders recognized by “Davenport Canada 150 Leadership Awards” By Rosana Dias Lancsarics
I
n 2017, Canadians from coast to coast celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Confederation. In Davenport, one of the ways this special anniversary was celebrated was by recognizing leaders who tirelessly contributed to building that neighbourhood over the years. Ultimately, they played an important role in making a better community, city, and country. Organized by Julie Dzerowicz, Member of the Parliament for Davenport, the Davenport Canada 150 Leadership Awards recognized 16 leaders.
Angela Mesquita, a leader in the Brazilian community Brazilian businesswoman Angela Mesquita has been recognized several times in the past years for her work with the Brazilian community. In the end of 2017, Angela was awarded as “Leader of the Brazilian Community” by MP Julie Dzerowicz. “Angela Mesquita has been one of the most beloved leaders and champion of the Canadian-Brazilian community for over 30 years. In addition to running a successful company, she helps Brazilians find jobs, homes and mobilizes the community around issues such as raising money for cancer research. Angela is an inspiration, not only to the Brazilian community, but also to all Canadians. I’m honoured to have her in the Davenport community.” MP Julie Dzerowicz for Davenport
DISCOVER - How many awards have you received in Canada? Angela - I received two awards prior to this one. In 1999, the Entrepreneur Angela Mesquita, left, Brazilian Consulate with MP Julie Dzerowicz from gave me the Davenport Canada 150 Award event. “Outstanding Brazilian Citizen” award, while in 2003 the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) honoured me as “Business Woman”. They are all important, but the Davenport Canada 150 recognizes my work from a social point of view, which makes me extremely proud.
DISCOVER - You’re starting to become better known as an event planner within the Brazilian community. Is this something you would like to carry on doing? Angela - I am pretty sure partying and having fun run in my veins, but planning events isn’t something I would like to focus on. I do that to help unite the Brazilian community here in Canada. I always say it’ll be my last event, but there’s always another one.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Brazilian beer wants to conquer Canadian market By Rosana Dias Lancsarics | Photos courtesy of OverHop
OverHop of Rio de Janeiro, which is a main brewery of over-the-counter beers, plans to expand across the country in 2018. In addition to Ontario, where it launched the Hazy and OneLove brands late last year, the company has already started producing and selling in Quebec . In Toronto, chopp (draft beer) and branded cans are at The Craft Brasserie, Another Bar, Common Good Beer and Pinkerton’s. “Launching a brewery in December was extremely daring”, says Patricia Rios, responsible for the company’s Marketing and Communication. “The end of the year is traditionally a time of sales retraction, but we are very happy with the results we are getting.” Awards - One of the main reasons for the expansion of the brand across Canada was the fact that the company received an award at the Mondial de La Biére in Montreal. “They invited us to showcase our beers last year and based on the success of the event, we believe it is a good time to invest in the Canadian market,” says Rios.
OverHop’s team at Mondial Montreal
Jack Oliveira Awarded Portuguese Order of Entrepreneurial Merit By Luis Aparício | Photos by Marcelo DiGiovanni
The President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Souza, awarded Jack Oliveira, the Portuguese Order of Entrepreneurial Merit.
President of Portugal, right, and Jack Oliveira at the National Palace of Belém in Portugal
The ceremony took place at the National Palace of Belém in Portugal at the end of last year and was attended by the union’s executive members. After the ceremony, the President of the Republic briefly recalled Jack Oliveira’s career and thanked him for his hard work and dedication in delivering high
standard services to Portugal. The General Union of Workers (UGT) said in a statement that the award “bestows a great trade unionist, a Portuguese immigrant, born in Murtosa (Aveiro), who dedicated his life to the trade union movement and to the world of work as well as to the rights of Portuguese workers in Canada.” Jack Oliveira has been a member of LiUNA Local 183 for over three decades. Besides this achievement, he has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, understanding better than anyone what it means to roll up the sleeves and get the job done right.
Under his leadership, in the role of Business Manager since 2011, Local 183 recorded the largest growth in the shortest period of time, along with better benefits for active and retired members. The union now has more than 55,000 members.
The Executive Board of Liuna Local 183
Business Manager of Liuna 183, Jack Oliveira
CANADA | Sport
Antonio Lennert’s adventure in surfing waves in below zero temperatures. Courtesy of Lucas Murnaghan.
ANTONIO LENNERT: Breaking the ice on a surfboard By Jandy Sales
I
t was in the Bahamas that Antonio Lennert heard for the first time that surfing is a reality in Canada. He met a Toronto surfer whose ability on the surfboard filled the Brazilian surfer with admiration. “You surf really well, but there are no waves there,” Lennert told the Canadian. A native of the city of Joinville, Santa Catarina, Lennert learned to surf with his older brother while still living in Brazil, but in 2007 he adopted the Great Lakes region as his official address for practicing the sport.
Freezing temperatures of the Great Lakes in Toronto don’t intimidate the Brazilian surfer Antonio Lennert Lennert warns first-timers who are considering surfing in the region that the first thing they should do is check the weather forecast.
Cold Weather Safety Lennert usually catches waves at Woodbine Beach when the temperature is below freezing with strong winds, which makes it a perfect surfing day. “When 26 | 2018 | DISCOVER
the winter storms roll through, they bring rain and snow and the low pressure system generates the strongest winds therefore producing waves on the lakes,” he said. Lennert says that before you get on the board, you should get yourself protected against the cold weather. Full-body wetsuits offer full coverage from head to toe.
Lennnert: “The surfing community here is very different from everything I’ve seen in my life”. Courtesy of Lucas Murnaghan.
In addition to the Bahamas, Lennert has also surfed the waters of Australia and California. According to him, the waves of the Great Lakes reach up to two meters high, which is enough to make surfing possible in Canada. “The best surf season in Toronto starts in the fall and runs from spring to winter,” he said.
Surfing and The Environment Lennert founded Surf The Greats - an organization dedicated to protect and conserve the environment. According to him, his organization also functions as a meeting point for surf lovers and it is also a
Lennert at the store “Surf The Greats” in Toronto, where the environmental organization of the same name is located. By Jandy Sales
place where they can buy surfboards and other accessories. Community cleanup efforts in the Great Lakes are some of the activities developed by the entity. It is at Surf The Greats where Lennert, his friends and other surfers gather outside the waters to attend events such as art exhibitions and environmental-themed film screenings. The organization is also a venue for workshops that teach you how to analyze the weather forecast to know the best day to surf. Lennert also runs the Freshwater Fund. His goal is to spend one percent of all income generated at Surf the Greats for the Lake Ontario Water Keeper - a Canadian non-governmental group.
Homophobia and Canadian Multiculturalism With a degree in Graphic Design, Lennert says multiculturalism in Canada has turned surfing into a pretty peculiar sport. “There are surfers from all over the world who moved here looking for a better life.” Antonio Lennert embarked for New York and pretty far from the Brazilian beaches when he decided to study English. It was in California, however, that he met his other passion - photographer Lucas Murnaghan. They’ve been living together since then. The surfer said he was a victim of homophobia. “I had problems with homophobia in Brazil and Mexico. I don’t hide my homosexuality, but I don’t necessarily raise any flag,” he said. “Of course I miss the warm weather and the life I left in Brazil, but the surf community here is way different from anything I’ve ever seen in my life. There is a sense of companionship I had never seen before,” said Lennert. To learn more about surfing in Canada and the environmental preservation work developed by surfer Antonio Lennert, visit: surfthegreats.org.
DISCOVER magazine’s team and supporters at Toronto City Hall.
CANADA | Media
DISCOVER Magazine wins award in Canada By Rosana Dias Lancsarics | Photos Armando Chin
D
ISCOVER Magazine receives award from the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) in the magazine category for “best editorial and visual concept and services provided to the Portuguese-speaking community in Canada.”
The founder and CEO of DISCOVER magazine Leila Monteiro Lins, received the prize awarded by NEPMCC, from President Thomas Saras, in a ceremony at Toronto City Hall last year. According to Lins, “nine years of total dedication to constant improvement of the magazine is being recognized.” The NEPMCC is a non-governmental organization representing 750 publications, as well as 150 TV and radio stations, working in 101 different languages and cultures. According to Maria Saras-Voutsinas, Executive director of NEPMCC, “the award identifies and recognizes individuals, journalists and publishers who deserve recognition within the ethnic media landscape in Canada.” Saras-Voutsinas points out that “DISCOVER Magazine is a renovated part of the ethnic media family. The visual presentation, editorial content with reports highlighting the Canadian, Brazilian and Portuguese origin is the magazine that makes a prodigious impact. This is the essence of ethnic media and DISCOVER
magazine. Our inheritance will always define us, but we shall also build upon the multicultural mosaic in Canada.”
DISCOVER Magazine Established in 2010, DISCOVER magazine aims to promote Portuguese, Brazilian and Canadian destinations, and strengthen the bonds between the three countries and connect them to the world. The magazine’s main target is the multicultural Canadian society with appeal to the Portuguese and Brazilian communities. With the magazine published twice a year and also a very active website (DISCOVER Portal), the publication has established itself as one of the references of the Portuguese-speaking community in Canada. According to the CEO Leila Monteiro Lins, “today we are a solid team who also works with the online publication of news about the community and the world. Our purpose is to keep our readers informed about the day-to-day journalistic events through the Portal.” www.magazinediscover.com | DISCOVER | 2018 | 29
PORTUGAL | Tourism The city obtained the title of “European Youth Capital” in 2012. By LML
Northern Portugal: 5 cities to get lost in By Ingrid Coifman & Leila Monteiro Lins
D
iscovering the north of Portugal can be a very rewarding experience. It’s a region of medieval hilltop villages and castles, as well as mountains for hiking and wineries to tour and imbibe in. Each city is unique and full of charm. Those willing to get lost in alleys and architecture can breathe in all the history and scenery, all the while learning new cultures and life styles.
MINHO REGION The province of Minho occupies land between the Douro River in the south and the Minho River in the north. Known as the birthplace of the nation, Minho has two of Portugal’s most historic cities: its first capital, Guimarães, and Braga, the country’s main religious centre. Between Braga and the coast lies Barcelos, the ceramics centre of the region. Traveling north, the pretty town of Viana do Castelo is a useful base from which to explore the coast. 32 | 2018 | DISCOVER
Braga is known for its religious heritage and festivals that became part of its annual calendar. By Sergio Freitas
Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga) by LML.
Praça da República e Arcada. By LML
BRAGA, young and old in great harmony Braga is Portugal’s oldest city, with over 2000 years enveloped in Manueline and Baroque architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. Currently, the city comes in third in number of young residents, especially due to the university hubs, combined with a growing number of start-up companies recently established. According to Tourism Officer Representative Altino Bessa, Braga has become one of the most innovative cities in Portugal and home to the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), as well its technology partner, Minho University. “Education, research and entrepreneurship have functioned as a development engine for Braga, both in economic and demographic terms. We also have attracted companies such as Bosch Car Multimedia and Fujitsu to our region. Our tourism industry is experiencing an important momentum too”, says Bessa. In Braga, history is ingrained in every corner you step into. It gathers the first Cathedral of the country, Sé, and the famous Bom Jesus do Monte, a well-known sanctuary, with a Baroque stairway that zigzags more than 100 metres up the hill. This place is also a candidate as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Don’t miss • Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga): Bishop D. Pedro (1070-1093) ordered the reconstruction of the Cathedral that was destroyed during the Muslim invasions. The work gained great momentum in the time of Counts D. Henrique and D. Teresa, who carried out the construction around the year 1100; • Praça da República e Arcada: This Square is the centre of Braga and a favorite meeting place for locals. The Arcada (16th century) has been a main area for more than two hundred years and served as a shelter for merchants in the past; • Rua do Souto: There’s an intense area of commerce. Braga has the largest number of shops per inhabitant and the largest pedestrian zone in the country, extending throughout the historic centre; • Jardim de Santa Bárbara: Built in a similar way to the Italian Renaissance gardens, whose flowers change according to the seasons. In the centre, there is a 17th century fountain with the statue of Santa Barbara. The garden has medieval walls of the former Palace of the Archbishops, with the Gothic wing of the 14th century; • Fonte do Ídolo: It was built in the beginning of the first century. The Fountain of the Idol was recognized as a National Monument in 1970; • Termas Romanas do Alto da Cividade: The only Roman public baths known in Braga, located in a large protected archaeological area; • Centro Interpretativo Memórias da Misericórdia de Braga: It is one of the most important works of Baroque architecture in the country. The Palácio do Raio, also known as Casa do Mexicano, was built over 250 years ago;
Pudim Abade de Pricos is a pudding made mostly out of egg yolks with caramel, cinnamon and sugar. The dessert was among the 21 wonders of the Portuguese Gastronomy in 2011. By Sergio Freitas
• Rede de Percursos Pedestres: Totalling about 280 kilometres, the trail network provides experiences around four main themes: “City and Nature”, “Paths with History”, “Rivers, Hills and Valleys”, and “Trails of Braga.” Visitors can discover the picturesque scenes, stunning landscapes, historical elements and traditions;
Guimarães showcases well-preserved medieval buildings like the 10th-cntury Castle, which offers stunning city views. By LML
GUIMARAES, Portugal’s birthplace Guimaraes is considered Portugal’s birth place, where the first king of Portugal Afonso Henriques was born. Its historic town centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, in recognition for its evolution of a medieval settlement melding into a modern town in Europe. The Largo da Oliveira has well-preserved gothic architecture, which includes the old town hall, Igreja da Colegiada, and the monument of the Battle of Salado. Lovely squares with outdoor cafes are a highlight of a walking trip along narrow streets full of granite balconies, porticos and arches. The 10th-century Guimarães Castle upheld the city against Moor and Norman attacks in the past.
The historical heart of the city has a UNESCO World Heritage protected status.
Don’t miss • Dukes of Bragança Palace, built in the style of a French chateau, has a museum displaying furniture and tapestries; • Romanesque São Miguel do Castelo Church was built in the 13th century; “Tortas de Guimarães” (Guimaraes’ pies) and Toucinho do Céu (bacon from heaven) are good examples of local cuisine. By LML
• Take the cable car to Penha Park for panoramic views;
BARCELOS, open market and handcrafts
The traditional Portuguese stew (Cozido à Portuguesa) is considered part of the Portuguese heritage.
and the Torre do Cimo da Vila, which has an elevator that takes visitors all the way to the top. The historic centre has an important Gothic medieval bridge dating back to the 14th century. The Palace of the Condes of Barcelos, which houses the Archaeological Museum, the Pottery Museum, and the Gil Vicente Theatre is also located in the city centre.
The most famous symbol of Portugal, the colourful ceramic cockerel, has its origins in Barcelos. By LML
The town’s famous symbol is a rooster, called o galo de Barcelos. The city hosts a weekly open air market in Campo Da Republica, one of the largest of its kind, presenting a range of locally produced ceramics and handcrafts. The old Jewish quarter is worth a visit, along with Baroque-inspired Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Terco
The medieval walled town situated on a hill has charming streets and baroque houses. By LML
Don’t miss • Book a horseback riding experience at Centro Hípico Ir Pedro Coelho, which hosts an international tournament, with more than 150 competitors in May and September; • Museu Arqueológico is free and overlooks Barcelinhos across the river; • There’s lots to explore in surrounding areas such as villages, rivers and forests. Ask for Percursos de Pequena Rota (PR) for short treks.
VIANA DO CASTELO, between the beach and the river Viana do Castelo is known for its striking architecture. The buildings date from different periods, many originated in the 16th century. Viana’s boulevards and narrow alleyways are inspired by Manueline, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Deco architecture. In Praça da República, you can explore Misericórdia fountain, Paços do Concelho, and the Romanesque Cathedral. Besides the medieval appeal, Viana is gifted with beaches just outside the centre. Due to its location next to the Atlantic Ocean and to the mouth of Lima River, the city has become a favourite spot for lovers of jet skiing, sailing, rowing and canoeing. There are numerous cycle paths along the coast and the river for bike riders to explore. Many contemporary architects have helped shape the city’s public spaces more recently, including the Praça da Liberdade (Fernando Távora), the Library (Álvaro Siza Vieira), and the Cultural Center, (Souto de Moura).
The best way to explore the town is on foot
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Don’t miss • Praia de Cabedelo, is an untouched bay with golden sands, dunes and waves; • The Gil Eannes was a hospital ship that sailed off Newfoundland and Greenland, and supported cod-fishing; • Try the Pescada à Vianense, which is cod, hake or other fish seasoned with lemon juice and garlic, then baked with sliced potatoes, sautéed garlic and onions. Viana is said to be the birth place of the famous Portuguese soup made with kale and potatoes “Caldo verde” ; • Crockery: The most traditional craft of producing earthenware is sold in many local shops, as well as in the factory in Meadela.
The refreshing Vinho Verde
The wines of the Vinho Verde region have long been known for their vibrant fruit, low alcohol and refreshing qualities. By Shutterstock
Vinho Verde is a Portuguese wine that originated in the historic Minho province. Its name translates to “green wine” but actually means “young wine”. It may be red, white or rosé and are usually consumed soon after bottling. Vinho Verde is a blend of green grapes, all indigenous to Portugal, but there are two predominant grapes that winemakers have been focusing lately: Alvarinho and Loureiro. Comprised of nine sub-regions in the Douro Valley, the wine region starts just below the Portuguese-Spanish border, and extends all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. The region is also fairly wet and rainy. Two rivers (Douro and Minho) run through this wine country.
DOURO AND TRÁS-OS-MONTES REGION PORTO, the port wine capital A great way to see the Port Wine area in Vila Nova de Gaia is to take the cable car. By LML Sao Bento Railway Station. By LML
Portugal’s second-largest metropolis after Lisbon, Porto is vibrant, full of culture, nightlife, and great places to explore. One of its landmarks, Torre dos Clerigos, is a genuine baroque masterpiece dating from the mid-18th century. The Foz de Douro neighbourhood is the place to dine and watch the sunset, while Vila Nova de Gaia has wine cellars to taste port wine. The Ribeira Square is a historical square in Porto, Portugal. It is included in the historical centre of the city, designated World Heritage by UNESCO. The funicular
affords a panoramic view over the river, connecting the Ribeira canal to the Batalha square in the city centre. There’s a bohemian vibe to Porto, which encourages visitors to keep walking and exploring the hilly city for countless hours. São Bento Railway Station, with its atrium lined with tiles, the Crystal Palace gardens, and the Soares dos Reis Museum are great tourist spots. This UNESCO Heritage Site is also known for its modern architecture seen at Casa da Musica, Serralves Museum and School of Architecture.
Aerial view of Ribeira Square and the surrounding district. By Porto Convention & Visitors Bureau
“Francesinha”
Don’t miss • “Francesinha” , Porto’s national dish (a sandwich with cured ham, sausage, and steak covered in cheese, fries, egg, hot tomato and beer sauce). • Walk in Parque da Cidade; • Explore Mercado do Bolhao and try their cheeses, pastries and olives;
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