Muchmor Magazine Issue 50

Canada - your journey starts here. issue 50

PLACES

PEOPLE

Kingston, Ontario a city with culture and history.

Feats with Feet - One mans inspirational story of courage.

Cultural Director Brian McCurdy talks about his vision for bringing the performing arts to Kingston's Grand Theatre.

Meet The Mayor - Mark Gerretsen Mayor of Kingston.

Photographer Steven Draper reaching new heights for a different perspective.

The history of the Canadian Tulip Festival

plus so muchmor‌..

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EDITORS MESSAGE Firstly welcome to our 50th edition of Muchmor Magazine what a journey it’s been…!

We started six years ago as a simple newsletter going out to a few hundred people, then after increasing readership into the thousands the first official issue of Muchmor Magazine came out November 2005. Now our readership extends to 145* countries worldwide and in 415* cities across Canada. So, thank you.

As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations we have relaunched our website with a great new layout which is much cleaner and easier to navigate. Take a look at www.muchmormagazine.com.

We have also changed the magazine layout slightly, which we hope you will enjoy, please let us know your thoughts about the website and magazine via our Facebook page.

One more thing, previously we have been bi-monthly, but due to reader demand as of this issue we will be a monthly digital publication. Of course the website will continue to be updated daily, particularly with time-sensitive issues, so stay tuned to both.

In this issue we visit Kingston, Ontario and take a look at some of the places and people that make it the vibrant city it is today. We also speak to the people of Canada, some of them have come from overseas to make this great country their own. One is Sudarshan Gautam who has overcome the greatest of adversities to achieve the impossible.

We hope that not only will you enjoy this issue, but continue to enjoy Muchmor and share us with your friends so that in around four years we will be celebrating our 100th issue.

Enjoy…..Jane Toombes Editor This months Cover. Photo credit: Wesley Oostvogels

*Readership Stats based on 2010 Muchmor Magazine Google Analytics

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THE CONTENTS

PEOPLE

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Story of inspiration

MUCHMOR PLACES

MUCHMOR PEOPLE

MUCHMOR LIFESTYLE

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Meet the Mayor

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Looking for a city with culture and history? Then Kingston, Ontario should be way up on your list of must sees

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The history of the Canadian Tulip Festival

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Feats with feet. One mans inspirational story of courage

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Meet the Mayor: Newly elected Mayor of Kingston Mark Gerretsen

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Air travel health & wellbeing: How altitude affects your body

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An urban jewel nestled amidst the natural beauty of lakes and forests in the heart of Northeastern Ontario. The City of Greater Sudbury

Discovering Kingston Ontario

PLACES

THE CONTENTS

FEATURED

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Performing arts in Kingston

MUCHMOR IMMIGRATION

MUCHMOR FEATURED

MUCHMOR SPOTLIGHT

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Photographer Steven Draper

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Real life story: Janet & Jon recently celebrated their third anniversary, not of marriage but of being in Canada, having first arrived in January 08.

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Real life story: O Canada! Smiths Falls resident becomes one of Canada’s newest citizens

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Queens Newcomer Group puts out the welcome mat in Nova Scotia

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We sat down with Cultural Director Brian McCurdy to find out more about his vision for bringing the performing arts to Kingston, Ontario.

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Photographer Steven Draper originally from the UK reaches new heights for a different perspective

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Financial advice: You may have a tax time bomb ticking and not even know it.

Janet & Jon real life story

IMMIGRATION

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MUCHMOR PLACES

Looking for a city with culture and history? Then Kingston, Ontario should be way up on your list of must sees.

By Jane Toombes

Kingston can be found in Eastern Ontario midway between Montreal and Toronto where the St Lawrence River flows into Lake Ontario.

Kingston was once the capital of the Province of Canada back in 1841, a title it held for three years and is home to many places that have been designated National Historic Sites of Canada. Kingston is also known as the “Limestone City� because of the many buildings built using the local limestone.

City Hall located in the downtown core is a limestone building that was completed in 1844 whilst the city was still the capital.

The architect was George Browne and the building cost 25,000 pounds to build.

Originally the clock was housed in a wing that was destroyed by fire in 1865. The clock, donated by John Counter and Sir John A. Macdonald was then moved to the main dome. Unfortunately another fire destroyed part of the dome and the clock

in 1908. The dome was rebuilt and a new Seth Thomas clock was installed along with a new bell. Both are still present today. The building was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1961.

We just mentioned Sir John A Macdonald who became the first Prime Minister of Canada in 1867 and held the position until his death in 1891. He did have one hiccup when a scandal erupted and he had to resign in 1873, but was reelected five years later. Before his notoriety he purchased Bellevue House in 1848 as a home for his family. Unfortunately due to his wife’s health issues and financial concerns they did not stay long and moved to a smaller property in downtown Kingston.

Now owned by Parks Canada the property not only gains its notoriety 7

because of Macdonald but because of its fine Italian-villa architecture. It became a National Historic Site of Canada in 1995.

In 1980 the Frontenac County Court House was designated a National Historic Site. This building dates back to the mid 1850’s and was designed by Edward Horsey and is built from local limestone. The property was damaged by fire in 1874 and again in 1931.

Renovation of the property began in 1965 and much of the interior was remodeled, however the original exterior remains intact.

Kingston General Hospital not only holds the designation of National Historic Site but it is also the oldest public hospital still operating in Canada. Originally built in 1835 to accommodate 120 patients but did not open until 1838 as there was no money available to equip the hospital.

Between 1841 and 1844 the building served as Canada's first Parliamentary building, but reverted to a hospital in 1845 and has continued operation to this day.

Whilst on the subject of health, the Ann Baille Building is another limestone building of note. It was built in 1904 on the grounds of Kingston General Hospital to house female nursing students. Because it only accommodated 26 students it was soon outgrown and larger buildings were constructed. Since 1991 it has been home to the Museum of Health Care where over 30,000 artifacts can be viewed.

Photo Credit: Frontenac County Court House: John Vetterli

Kingston has a long military history and Fort Henry is another historic site you won’t want to miss out on. Built between 1832 and 1837 at Port Henry to protect the entrance to the Rideau Canal it never actually saw military action. It was used by the British Army until 1870 when British troops were pulled out of Canada. During the First World War it was used as a prison for political prisoners, but fell into disrepair after the war ended.

In the 1930’s the Fort was restored and became a museum and historic site, however during World War II it was once again used for military purposes and became a prisoner of war camp. It was reopened as a museum in 1948. The Fort has since been 8

designated a National Historic Site of Canada (1923) and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Another Fort of note is Fort Frontenac built in 1673 as a French trading post and military fort. The Fort played a strategic part in the Seven Years War between the British and French. In 1758 the British took control of the Fort. After British troops withdrew in 1870 it became a gunnery school. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1923.

Whilst in the military mood visit Murney Tower on the shores of Lake Ontario. Built in 1846 to defend Kingston it went unused between 1890 and 1920 at which point it was taken over by the Kingston Historical Society. In 1925 it opened as a museum which can still be visited today.

Kingston is home to many prisons, nine in fact, but the most historic is Kingston Penitentiary built back in 1834 as the "Provincial Penitentiary of the Province of Upper Canada." In 1971 a riot lasting four days ensued. Much of the prison was destroyed and two inmates were killed. It is still in full use today making it one of the oldest continuous-use prisons in the world. As a maximum security prison it can house up to 421 inmates, 40% of which are serving life sentences.

These are just a few of the many historic locations throughout the city. If you would like to learn more about Kingston please contact Tourism Kingston or the Kingston Historical Society for more information.

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The history of the Canadian Tulip Festival: A celebration founded on friendship

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The Canadian Tulip Festival, now in its 59th year, has grown to become the largest Tulip Festival in the world. It preserves the local heritage of Canada’s role in freeing the Dutch during World War II, and the symbolic tulip; a gift in perpetuity to the Canadian people for providing a safe harbour to the Dutch Royal Family at that time.

The festival’s mandate is to preserve this heritage and celebrate the tulip as a symbol of international friendship by engaging local organizers, volunteers, artists, performers, tourists and festival-goers in what has become an annual ritual of spring and one of Canada’s best loved and well-known cultural events.

In the fall of 1945, Princess Juliana of the Netherlands presented Ottawa with 100,000 tulip bulbs. The gift was given in appreciation of the safe haven that members of Holland’s exiled royal family received during the World War II in Ottawa and in recognition of the role which Canadian troops played in the liberation of the Netherlands.

The tulips have become an important symbol of international friendship and spring, with special

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meaning to the people of Canada and its

magnificent gifts, including 100,000 tulip

Capital Region.

bulbs to Canada’s Capital in gratitude for

In early June 1940, Princess Juliana and her two small daughters secretly boarded a Dutch vessel bound for Halifax. After a long sea voyage, they moved into Ottawa’s Government House. Safe in the Ottawa region, Princess Juliana was able to take over the reins of government-inexile if the need arose.

The birth of Princess Margriet Francisca, the third daughter of Princess Juliana and Prince Bernhard, was a symbol of hope and a source of inspiration for the Dutch

the involvement of Canadian troops in the liberation of the Netherlands. In 1946, Princess Juliana herself gave an additional 20,000 bulbs to the country that had given her refuge. A few years after the Dutch tulips arrived in 1945, they became a strong attraction in Canada’s Capital, and stunning pictures appeared in newspapers nationwide resulting in more and more events around the annual bloom of tulips.

The Birth of a Festival

who were fighting for their survival in

The first Canadian Tulip Festival was held

Europe. The only royal baby ever born in

in 1953 lead by the Ottawa Board of

North America, her birth created a living

Trade, at the suggestion of world-

bond between the people of Canada and

renowned photographer Malak Karsh.

the Netherlands. To ensure the baby’s

Karsh is considered the founder of the

Dutch citizenship, the Canadian

Festival and his photographs have

government temporarily ceded a room at

immortalized the tulip. Through his

the Ottawa Civic Hospital to the

efforts, the Canadian Tulip Festival was

Netherlands. On January 19, 1943, the

formalized to coincide with the tulip’s

fl a g o f t h e N e t h e r l a n d s fl e w o n

annual bloom. In 2002, the Festival

Parliament’s Peace Tower and Princess

celebrated its 50th Anniversary dedicated

Margriet was born a Dutch citizen on

to its founder, having expanded to an

Dutch soil in the safe haven of Canada.

event of 18 days, showcasing over 3

Once the war had ended, the people of

million tulips throughout Canada’s Capital

the Netherlands and Princess Juliana

Region.

sent the Canadian people many

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Over the years the Festival has been opened by Governor Generals, Prime Ministers and Royalty, including several return visits from Queen Juliana and Princess Margriet.

Through the 1990s and into the new millennium, the Canadian Tulip Festival celebrated the Tulip as a symbol of Peace and Friendship creating an international bond by collaborating with Friendship countries, which include the Netherlands, Turkey, France, Japan, the United States, Great Britain and Australia.

The Festival Today To celebrate its roots of International Friendship, the Canadian Tulip Festival created the International Pavilion in Major’s Hill Park and became the “festival without fences” with all park events offering free admission. The International Pavilion provides a venue for over 20 partnering embassies and local cultural groups to showcase their wares and origins to tourists and festival-goers alike.

Each spring hundreds of thousands of people from all over North America, Europe and Asia make over a million visits to the Canadian Tulip Festival. The event, which grew from the Dutch gift of friendship, has become the world’s largest Tulip Festival. The tulip has also become Ottawa’s official flower, making Ottawa the tulip capital of the North America. This years festival runs from May 6 - 23.

For more information and details about the 2011 Canadian Tulip Festival Click Here

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MUCHMOR PEOPLE

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Feats with feet. One mans inspirational story of courage

By Peeyush Agnihotri

Imagine writing, holding a tea cup or opening the door with feet. In fact, try doing with feet, whatever you do with hands. Improbable, if not impossible, most of us would say.

But for Sudarshan Gautam, a Nepalborn Calgary resident, it is a daily routine.

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

“A kite that I was flying got entangled in the overhead electricity transmission wires. I tried getting it with a metal pole.

Next thing I remember is getting a huge shock and waking up at a military hospital in Kathmandu with both my arms amputated,” he recalls.

Yet he didn’t resign to fate.

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

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

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

“It makes me remember Nepal and looks like a home away from home,” he says.

Love for mountaineering comes naturally to Sudarshan as he comes from the 16

country of rugged peaks and steep hills.

While rock climbing, he uses his teeth to hold the rope. His mission is to scale Mount Everest, sans arms, in 2012 and establish a Guinness Book world record.

He is already preparing for that.

He plans to summit the peak for charitable causes and says the expedition to the Everest would be dedicated to Canada, Nepalese community and millions of disabled people around the world.

“I plan to construct schools with good facilities for the disabled in Nepal and donate some money to the health and educational projects there,” he says.

When asked the obvious question on how he will climb with no arms, he is clear.

“I’ll do it with the help of Sherpas (Nepali trained mountaineers), teeth and feet.

“Mount Yala was technically more challenging. I think with proper training I’ll be able to summit Mount Everest,” he says. “Preparations and training are already underway in the Rockies,” he discloses.

A former student of Mt Royal College, Calgary, Sudarshan, runs his autodetailing business in Calgary. He has published a book on Bill Clinton in Nepalese and received huge social recognition in Calgary. Visit his place and the wall is full of awards, citations and plaques.

What after Project Everest?

“A cross-country drive across Canada where I’ll try to meet every possible politician and spread the message that disability is not an inability,” he says as he opens the door with his feet to bid me goodbye.

Sudarshan started using his feet to eat, write and perform daily chores. He would practice 14 hours a day and gradually made them work like hands

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By Jane Toombes

Newly elected Mayor of Kingston, Mark Gerretsen

Meet the Mayor

Born and raised in Kingston, Mark Gerretsen was recently elected the 95th mayor of the city. Prior to his election he was City Councillor for Portsmouth District, from 2006 to 2010.

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

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

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

Q: What was the first car you ever owned?

A: Toyota Supra.

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

A: Nissan Pathfinder – always a favourite.

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

A: Criticizing a motion only to discover I was the one who moved it originally (I later rationalized that at least I can look at all sides of an argument!)

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

A: That I am a “handy” person.

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

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

A: Always running 5 minutes late!

A: Best: Reading “Walter the Farting Dog” to the Grade 4-5 class of St. Martha Catholic School (I am too new to have a worst moment…check back in with me in a year!)

Q: What do you most value in other people?

A: The insight that life-experiences have to offer.

Q: Mac or PC?

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

A: PC

A: I am living it!

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

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

A: Hilversum, Holland and St. B a r t o l o m e o , I t a l y ( m y p a r e n t ’s birthplaces)

A: Tell everyone how much I enjoyed our time together!

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

A: I already live in the best place in the world!

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Pursuit of Happyness with Will Smith.

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

A: Obama’s Wars.

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

A: Snowboarding!

Q: What hobbies do you do to relax?

A: Reading (lately, playing on my iPad) 20

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

A: My mom’s famous lasagna.

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

A: My sense of humour.

Q: If you had to evacuate your home immediately, what one item, other than family members & photos would you make sure you took with you?

A: My dog, Otis.

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

A: Take it slow and listen and learn before acting. (something I wish I had done!)

City Hall and its cupola are the focal point of the Kingston skyline, conveniently marking the heart of the city.

Photo: Wayne Hiebert, for the City of Kingston 21

MUCHMOR LIFESTYLE

Air travel health & wellbeing: How altitude affects your body

By Jane Toombes

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We are getting to the time of year when many of us are planning trips that may include flights. Although the vast majority of people fly with no problems at all, for some, problems such as jet lag, ear pain or DVT do occur. So what should you do to be aware of potential problems and prevent yourself from suffering from them?

The Sinuses Your sinuses are located within your face bones. If you have a cold or your sinuses are congested, the ducts that connect the sinuses to the nose and back of the throat are blocked or partially blocked.

This blockage can cause considerable discomfort when descending to lower altitudes.

When flying at high altitudes, your internal body pressure remains the same (as if you were on the ground) while the outside of your body experiences reduced pressure. This causes the gases (mainly air) inside your body to expand some of which is dissolved in your body fluids. As altitude increases, the expanding gases increases within your inner ear, sinuses and intestines which can cause discomfort. This expansion of gases in the sinuses and inner ear can lead to headaches, general face pain and ear pain. A heavy feeling, or a feeling of being bloated is caused by gases being trapped in the stomach. Gases trapped in the small intestine can be painful and cause fainting. A greater risk of pain and discomfort is caused by a fast ascension.

The Middle Ear The air in your middle ear cavity changes when atmospheric pressure shifts because of changes in altitude. If the ear is not equalized with the outside pressure, the eardrum becomes distended and can lead to pain and inflammation. In more serious cases, temporary deafness can occur.

Prevention: Equalizing the air between the ear and sinuses with outside air will help alleviate some discomfort. The following are some actions you can take to reduce your discomfort: • Widely open and close your mouth.

The tube that connects your ear to

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your throat expands and fills with outside air • Pinch your nose and blow gently while keeping your mouth closed • Chew gum or suck on a piece of hard candy • Swallow frequently Traveller’s Thrombosis (DVT) Traveller’s Thrombosis, or Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) is blood clotting (usually in the lower legs) and can be caused by reduced blood flow due to prolonged immobility. DVT is generally caused by sitting in the same position for an extended length of time. Other factors that can increase your risk are: • If you are over 40 years of age • Previous DVT or a family history of DVT • Certain types of cardiac disease • Hormone treatment or hormone replacement therapy (including oral contraceptives) • Recent major surgery of the lower limbs • If you have a blood clot in your leg Signs and Symptoms of DVT There are several symptoms that you should watch for when travelling: • Pain and swelling in your legs • Discolouration in your leg • Pulmonary embolism: this is when a piece of a blood clot becomes detached and travels through your body to your heart and lungs and generally occurs when then there is an existing clot. This may have serious consequences such as chest pain, shortness of breath and even sudden death in severe cases.

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Reducing your Risk Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing DVT: • Drink water and juice instead of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and soft drinks. Avoid alcoholic drinks • Try to get up and walk around the cabin or stand up and stretch whenever possible. Avoid crossing your legs while seated • We a r c o m f o r t a b l e a n d n o n constricting clothes while traveling If you have any of the afore-mentioned elevated risk factors, we strongly advise that you seek medical advice before travelling.

Jet Lag Jet lag occurs when we go from one time zone to another in a relatively short period of time and our body is unable to “keep up”. The new time zone can be many hours different than what our inner body clock is at and sleeping, eating and alertness are affected. While eliminating jet lag is almost impossible, you can take several steps to minimize its affects such as: • Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water and juice • Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks • When in a different time zone, take short naps when your internal body clock tells you you need to sleep and sleep 8 hours when it is proper for that time zone.

If you do notice anything odd, or you feel unwell make sure you tell someone, whether it be a travelling companion or flight attendant. As long as you are prepared and are aware of any potential problems you should be fine.

Meet Steven Draper the photographer who took this stunning image - page 48

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An urban jewel nestled amidst the natural beauty of lakes and forests in the heart of Northeastern Ontario

City of Greater Sudbury

The City of Greater Sudbury, is an urban jewel nestled amidst the natural beauty of lakes and forests in the heart of Northeastern Ontario. Offering a unique mix of urban amenities and natural surroundings, Greater Sudbury is a thriving landscape that covers an area of 3,627 square kilometres. With 330 freshwater lakes and hundreds of kilometres of trails, Greater Sudbury’s 158,000 plus residents enjoy an abundance of recreational activities, a rich colourful heritage, several business sectors, and excellent educational opportunities. Imagine a lifestyle with work-life balance, with a ten minute commute to work and a short distance to your weekend escape.

Considered by many as the Regional Centre of Northeastern Ontario, Sudbury’s early roots can be traced back to 1883 and the development of the transnational railway. Its vast mineral resources have resulted in unparalleled growth.

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Lake View Properties

Today, Greater Sudbury is a diversified regional centre for mining, technology, education, government and health services with great connections to neighbouring communities and beyond. Greater Sudbury prides itself on a strong network of industrial, commercial, financial and government support services. The city is located 390 kilometres north of Toronto, Ontario’s provincial capital, and 483 kilometres west of our Nations capital, Ottawa, where the Trans Canada Highways 17 and 69 converge.

Greater Sudbury is a city for the creative, curious and adventuresome!

Our city features four seasons and with the changing weather conditions, Sudburians enjoy a vast array of festivals, events and recreational activities that vary as the seasons do. Spring is alive with signs of summer which is just around the corner. Our summers and falls are warm and offer outdoor enthusiasts an abundance of activities to meet every lifestyle. The summer temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C. Our outdoor hiking 27

and biking trails are within the city and provide you with the perfect outdoor escape within minutes of your home or office.

Our city boasts many shopping malls, plazas and restaurants to suit every appetite. A host to tourist destinations like Science North and Dynamic Earth, Greater Sudbury has something for everyone.

A bilingual community with a rich francophone and aboriginal heritage, Greater Sudbury is a multicultural mosaic with a platform for welcoming and embracing diversity that Sudburians are proud to share with the world.

Greater Sudbury’s commitment to cultural diversity is evident in all areas of the city, from restaurants, schools, and places of worship, to festivals and events. Our city’s cultural festivals such as the Canada Day, Italian, La Nuit sur l’étang, Greek, Aboriginal, Irish, Celtic, Finnish and Ukrainian Yarmarok festivals celebrate the cultural diversity of our citizens.

The city’s diversity is most evident with the Bridge of Nations and its many flags. The flags on the Bridge of Nations were originally raised during a Canada Day celebration on July 1, 2007 to honour Greater Sudbury's multinational and multicultural heritage.

Today, it continues to be a reflection of how much Greater Sudbury embraces multiculturalism.

Education Take one look at our educational system and you’ll see that Greater Sudbury has invested heavily in its future by developing outstanding schools from Kindergarten through grade 12 and beyond. As the regional centre for learning and applied research in Northeastern Ontario, Greater Sudbury is home to four school boards, private schools and several postsecondary institutions such as the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Laurentian University, Cambrian College, and Collège Boréal, one of only two francophone colleges in Ontario. Greater Sudbury’s educational opportunities offer comprehensive and challenging curriculums that will prepare your children to succeed in our growing economy.

Canada's first new school of architecture in 40 years, Laurentian Architecture is expected to open in September 2012 as a downtown satellite campus of Laurentian University, and will offer a 4 year undergraduate program and a 2 year graduate program in architecture. Also in development, is a Francophone graduate program, which will be the first of its kind in North America. The school will feature a co-operative work program, thus allowing students to explore the world through international employment placements. A design-build senior class requirement will partner students and Laurentian Architecture with various Northern communities. Students will benefit 28

from working in collaboration with members of the community to develop specific design solutions to the challenges faced within Northern Ontario.

Real Estate and Housing Greater Sudbury offers a wide variety of affordable real estate options whether you want to rent or purchase a home in urban, rural and suburban settings. Greater Sudbury offers housing options to fit every budget and lifestyle.

You can enjoy a work-life balance with a 10 minute commute from your home to work.

Take a drive through our city and you will get a glimpse of friendly neighbourhoods, thriving business sectors and a vibrant downtown filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants and entertainment.

La Bella Vita Cucina

In comparison to other large communities, Greater Sudbury has the lowest average housing prices. The average sale price for a single family home in 2010 was $223,016. If renting an apartment or home, Greater Sudbury renters spend less of their income on housing than the national average. Greater Sudbury will afford you a nice standard of living and the city’s outlying suburbs provide opportunities for housing at more affordable rates.

Employment Greater Sudbury’s business-friendly environment is as dynamic as it is diverse. We have a highly skilled, educated, innovative and enthusiastic workforce. Once reliant on the cycles that came with mining, Greater Sudbury has grown considerably into a diverse and dynamic centre for technology, education, mining, government, and health services.

A comparison to Ontario data based on the 2006 Census reveals that Greater Sudbury’s labour force profile has diversified significantly over the last three decades.

Service activities, from retail to producer services, now employ 80% of Greater Sudbury's labour force, compared to 20% in the goods-producing sector. Health care, educational services and public administration all play an important role, reflecting Greater Sudbury's position as a regional service centre for Northeastern Ontario, as well as the continued development of the health care and education infrastructure.

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Health Care Services Greater Sudbury has become a regional resource and referral centre for residents in Northeastern Ontario. The presence of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, the Northeastern Ontario Regional Cancer Centre and the Adult Regional Cardiac Program, coupled with the pursuit of an Occupational Health & Safety Centre of Excellence, have all positioned Greater Sudbury as a regional health centre. Over 300 general practitioners and specialists contribute to the overall health and wellness of Greater Sudbury and to patients throughout the region.

The Hôpital régional de Sudbury Regional Hospital (HRSRH) provides hospital-based acute, transitional, rehabilitation and continuing care. The HRSRH completed a major expansion to consolidate all hospital based services once offered across three sites.

The new one site hospital allows for additional acute inpatient and intensive care beds, mental health, birthing facilities, emergency department, operating rooms and other diagnostic and support departments.

With the world’s population ageing, the need for long term care facilities is essential to any city. From retirement communities including St. Joseph’s Villa, the Elizabeth Centre, Pioneer Manor and Finlandia-Koti, to chronic care centres such as Extendicare, the City of Greater Sudbury is proud to offer a wide variety of health care accommodation options for our seniors.

Key Websites Immigrate to Greater Sudbury and live the dream of a life in a new city that offers you a balanced lifestyle in nature’s wonderland! The City of Greater Sudbury welcomes you!

To learn more about the City of Greater Sudbury, visit the following websites and find out what makes Sudbury so great! http://www.mysudbury.ca http://www.immigrationsudbury.ca http://www.greatersudbury.ca http://www.sudburytourism.ca http://invest.mysudbury.ca http://www.sciencenorth.ca http://www.rainbowroutes.com http://www.laurentian.ca http://www.cambriancollege.ca http://www.borealc.on.ca http://www.nosm.ca http://www.ontarioimmigration.ca Greek Festival 30

Live, Work, and Play in Greater Sudbury. Newcomers visit www.immigrationsudbury.ca

Vivez, travaillez et divertissez-vous dans le Grand Sudbury. Nouveaux arrivants, visitez le site www.immigrationsudbury.ca

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MUCHMOR IMMIGRATION

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Janet & Jon recently celebrated their third a n n i v e r s a r y, n o t o f marriage but of being in Canada, having first arrived in January 08.

By Jane Toombes

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Originally from Birmingham, England their first taste of Canada was during a holiday in the summer of 2006. Janet recalls “Within the first few days we were totally and utterly in love with it and knew that this was going to be ‘our place.’ We just had to find a way to make it happen.”

In the UK, Jon was a civil servant o rg a n i z i n g t h e re p a i r o f m i l i t a r y equipment around the world. Janet worked in a car dealership as an administrator. They submitted their application for the skilled worker program in August of 2006 but found out the waiting list was around five years. Not prepared to wait this length of time Jon started looking for work in Canada. He found a job as an auto mechanic in Edmonton, Alberta and after several telephone interviews was offered the job.

Now he had to satisfy the LMO (Labour Market Opinion) criteria and have his qualifications, references etc approved.

He also had to obtain his Journeyman Certificate which had to be done in Canada.

In January 2008 the couple arrived in Edmonton on a six month work permit.

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

Jon started his job and Janet looked for one herself, finally securing placement in an office after about five weeks. “This was a dreadful experience,” she says.

“The women already had their clique quota, so I was not made welcome. Also, 34

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

“I stayed in the job for three months but the final straw came when I was approved for two weeks holiday and at the last minute they told me I could not take it. Jon’s mum was coming over from the UK and we had hired an RV to take a trip to the Rockies, so plans could not be changed. I left and never looked back.”

In June they received their documents to obtain permanent residence status which required them to leave Canada and get their passports stamped at the border when reentering the country. They decided to celebrate Canada Day by doing just that and crossed the border at Sweetgrass, Montana, turned around and reentered Canada as permanent residents. They travelled back home to Edmonton and Jon’s Jour neyman Certificate was waiting for them in the mailbox. So all in all this was a very special Canada Day for them.

By this time the couple knew that Edmonton was not the place for them. It was too big and not as safe as they had hoped. They also found too many beggars on the streets and in car parks always pestering people. They decided to look for another place to live and finally settled on Leduc, about 45 minutes south of the city.

“We were initially drawn by the peace, quiet and the fact that it was in the country side.” says Jon, “It's a tiny place, but has every store we need to get by without travelling back to Edmonton. It's very peaceful, and very community

conscious which is a lovely way to live. It's clean, free from roaming groups of teenagers, and something we still can't come to grips with - the crime rate is almost non-existent!”

In July 2008 they found a house to call their own and due to the fact they had a large deposit to place on the property were able to secure a mortgage. The money from the sale of their UK home also meant they were able to buy furniture, household items etc.

“Without the money in the bank we would have been in a mess.” says Jon, “Our Canadian bank still wouldn’t give us a credit card, so everything was paid in cash.”

Since moving into their home their lives have settled and they have their routines. Jon works and earns the money whilst Janet looks after the house and garden. This allows them to enjoy every weekend. They also have plenty of time to spend with their beloved Jack Russell, Paddy.

Much to Janet’s surprise she has found she loves camping. “I had never tried it before, but now I truly don’t think I could enjoy anything more. Camping in the Rockies, breakfast outdoors surrounded by trees, birds, chipmunks, elk and hopefully a bear or two. Drinking in the most beautiful, big sky either of us have ever seen, we really have found out little piece of heaven on earth and as long as we both draw breath, we will make the most of every minute.”

So, do they miss anything about the UK? “Only decent TV.” chuckles Janet.

Do they have any advice for others looking to move here? “To be flexible.” says Jon, “and bring plenty of cash. Banks don’t always want to help you out when you need it.”

Janet ads, “Unfortunately racism is everywhere and Canada is not exempt, so you will come across it sometime, but it is the minority.”

Over all the couple agree that they have never looked back for one second and have never regretted moving half way across the world.

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O Canada! Smiths Falls resident becomes one of Canada’s newest citizens

Suki remembers the kindness of new acquaintances who helped her in her first days. The new acquaintances helped her find a place to stay and people to help her communicate. She experienced firsthand what Canadian hospitality is all about.

The first seven years of Suki’s life here were spent in Toronto. Ontario’s capital city is the first stop for many immigrants who come to Canada and Suki was no different. She followed the lead of others from her home village in Fujian Province in China who came to Toronto to start a new life.

Upon her arrival, Suki initially stayed with a classmate from elementary school at his a u n t ’s h o m e i n d o w n t o w n To r o n t o .

Accustomed to warm weather in China in April, she admits it took some acclimatizing to the cool temperatures in Ontario at that time of year.

“April was still cold and windy but it’s very dry,” she recalled of the weather she encountered. “I remember, in the month, it still snowed a couple times.”

For three or four months Suki attended ESL (English as a Second Language) classes in Toronto. Like her, most of the students in the class were of Chinese origin. Likewise, most were only able to attend class in the morning as they had to head off to work in the afternoon.

Arriving in Canada in April 2003, Smiths Falls resident Xiao Yan (Suki) Zhu’s first impression of the country was that “the people here were very friendly.” And she continues to hold that view almost eight years later.

In Suki’s case, she worked a 3 to 11:30 p.m. shift at a chicken processing plant.

Depending on whether there was overtime or not, she wouldn’t get home until 1 or 2 a.m.

“The next morning I would have to get up at 8 o’clock for school, which started at 9,” she related.

While it was long hours, it was all worth it.

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Suki met her future husband Yong Guang Zheng in Toronto and they were married in 2004. With the purchase of Wong’s Buffet in Smiths Falls by Yong Guang in the late summer of 2010, she moved here last September to join her husband, assisting him in the Chinese food restaurant as a kitchen helper. Their fivey e a r- o l d s o n T i m o t h y a t t e n d s kindergarten at one of the town’s elementary schools while his younger sibling, 15-month-old Stanley, is currently staying with his paternal grandparents in China. They look forward to connecting with Stanley on a regular basis via Skype.

Settling into Smiths Falls As Suki settles into her new life in Smiths Falls, she has found the ESL classes being held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Smiths Falls Public Library, through a partnership between the Town of Smiths Falls and TR Leger School of Adult, Alternative & Continuing Education, of the Upper Canada District School Board, invaluable.

“It (ESL) is very important in my life,” she says, making special mention of the friendships she has made there and how the classes have helped her further improve her skills in speaking English.

A teacher back in China, she would love to be able to one day practise her profession here. A challenge, however, is getting her teaching qualifications recognized in Canada and improving her English speaking skills to the level needed.

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“If you want to be a teacher here, your English must be perfect,” she comments.

“You have to communicate with the students and the parents.”

In addition to the ESL classes, another thing Suki has found beneficial as a newcomer to Canada living in Smiths Falls is the mentorship provided by the Host Program of TR Leger Immigrant Services. The program brings together newcomers to Canada and established community residents for friendship, sharing, and learning. Suki, along with Joyce Chen and her brother Tony, have been matched with Betty Davis since November. The four meet on a regular basis to do everything from baking bread in Betty’s home to visiting the REAL Deal Reuse Store operated by the Rideau Environmental Action League (REAL) to just chatting at a local coffee shop.

“We talk to each other about Canada and China,” Suki notes. “It’s just a way to improve our English.”

The program has also been a great learning experience for her, in terms of learning about Canadian traditions and experiences.

Ask Suki why, of all the countries in the world, she chose to come to Canada as a Permanent Resident, she responds by citing the Canadian standard of living “that was at the top of the world.”

Likewise, she makes mention of the country’s “nice environment” and low crime rate.

In fact, Suki feels Canada is such a “good” country that she became one of its newest citizens on March 9, four years after her husband was given his citizenship.

Each year, approximately 170,000 people receive their Canadian citizenship. To be eligible to apply, adults are required to have lived in Canada for three of the past four years. They are also evaluated on their knowledge of the country and one of its official languages – English or French – through an interview and written test.

Suki took the test at the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office in Ottawa on Feb. 15. The 20 written questions she was quizzed on ranged from what a voter writes on a ballot at a polling station to the name of the province that produces oil and gas.

Despite being allotted half an hour, she was able to complete the test in 10 minutes.

Less than 10 days later, Suki received a letter informing her she had passed the test and to appear March 9 at the CIC office to take the Oath of Citizenship.

Understandably, she was elated at the news.

“I felt surprised and excited,” she said as she shared her desire to become a Canadian citizen in order that she can have “more rights and responsibilities as a Canadian.”

At the swearing in ceremony, Suki took the following oath of citizenship: I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, Her Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen.

One of 80 to 90 people from more than 25 countries around the world to be sworn in that day, Suki left little doubt this was a special moment in her life. “That was wonderful,” she said when interviewed the following day.

Dennis Staples, the mayor of Smiths Falls, was thrilled to hear that one of the town’s newest residents has become a Canadian citizen.

“The Town of Smiths Falls is honoured and proud to have Suki Zhu and her family choosing Smiths Falls as their new home,” he said. “In addition, we extend our congratulations to Suki on receiving her Canadian citizenship.”

Anyone interested in learning more about Smiths Falls and what the town has to offer newcomers to Canada is encouraged to visit the website www.immigratetosmithsfalls.ca

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Queens Newcomer Group December 2010

Queens Puts Out The Welcome Mat Queens Newcomers Group is truly a community-driven initiative. One day back in July 2010 at a gathering for new immigrants in Greenfield, Queens County, one of them said “We need our own newcomers group in Queens.�

Sylvia Wilkinson, who arrived from Mexico 3 years ago with her husband, Tony, was that person and she stepped up to the plate and participated in a small organizing committee (all newcomers), who hosted their first event in October 2010. Liverpool Best Western Hotel and Conference Centre kindly donated the meeting space and the committee decorated tables, planned the order of business and got on the phone to promote the event. Then they waited, not knowing how many people would turn up to this inaugural event.

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It was truly amazing to see over 60 people come through the door who immediately started talking to each other in animated fashion. The facilitators dispensed with the planned icebreaker exercise and proceeded to show a presentation of beautiful images of the area. It showed the local flora and fauna, the whales, seals, fish, birds and the scenery of the countryside and small towns. Many left the meeting hoping to see all of these marvellous things.

Resulting from this was a newcomers and friends walking group. An active autumn schedule, usually on Saturday mornings, included a picnic or restaurant lunch afterwards. They walked in beautiful Pine Grove Park, the Trestle Trail in Liverpool, the beach at Beach Meadows and a l o n g the Mersey River in Kejimkujik National Park; with lunch in one of the park shelters.

In addition, a meeting was hosted at the Thomas H. Raddall Library in Liverpool, where feedback on an interestb a s e d questionnaire was provided, Queens Newcomer Group Walking The Trestle Trail In Liverpool together with the history of local author, Thomas H. Raddall, and a tour of the library facilities. Integral with the newcomers group’s philosophy is the desire to integrate with the community. Members have attended a number of events to enjoy community suppers and Christmas open houses. As time progresses more and more newcomers are becoming known to the group. An email database of nearly 60 people is helping to expand and connect this growing and valuable addition to our communities on Nova Scotia’s beautiful South Shore.

If you wish to become a part of the group and hear about events for newcomers in Queens, please contact Jill Cruikshank at 902-354-5741 or email jcruikshank@regionofqueens.com.

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MUCHMOR FEATURED

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Photo Credit: Tim Forbes

The Grand Theatre Kingston has undergone four major renovations since 1966. The most recent restoration project was the most substantial overhaul of the Grand the City has ever undertaken, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to this historic landmark.

We sat down with Cultural Director Brian McCurdy to find out more about his vision for bringing the performing arts to Kingston, Ontario.

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Tim Forbes

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

But in 1898 a fire destroyed the building.

In 1902 Ambrose Small rebuilt the theatre, this time calling it the Grand Opera House, to much acclaim. Many performances graced its boards over the next few years including Al Jolson and Harry Houdini.

However in 1919 the theatre saw its first real life murder mystery. In that year Small decided to sell the Grand along with other theatres he owned for the sum of $1,700,000. On the day of the sale he met with his lawyer at the Grand Opera House in Toronto which he owned. The meeting ended and the lawyer left, but Ambrose Small was never seen again.

Small was a very wealthy man and only 56 years old and so had no reason to disappear. His wife Theresa, a successful business woman in her own right was implicated in his disappearance and her inheritance was part of a fifteen-year legal battle. But no evidence against her was found and she inherited the money which she then willed, along with the rest of her estate to the Catholic Church upon her death in 1935. Small’s disappearance has never been solved.

McCurdy chuckles when asked about Small but does admit that strange things have been reported in the theatre, suggesting that Small may still be around and keeping an eye on things.

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Photo Credit: Muchmor Magazine

“We have had several reports of ghostly happenings, such as doors opening and pianos playing when no one is around, but I have not witnessed anything myself.

I’m sure those people experience something, but exactly what it was I wouldn’t like to say. But the stories do come from very credible sources.”

Since Small sold the theatre it has gone through many changes. In 1938 it was opened as a movie theatre by the Famous Players chain. In 1961 it was sold to make way for a parking lot and the interior was stripped bare. However, in 1962 a local citizen's group fought to revive the theatre and the City purchased it for $51,631.64. Once again locals stepped in to restore the building to its former glory and in 1966 it reopened as Kingston’s Civic Auditorium.

Since that time the Grand Theatre has undergone four major renovations. The most recent restoration project was the

Photo Credit: Rex Roof

most substantial overhaul of the Grand ever undertaken, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to this historic landmark. Between 2004 and 2008 both the interior and exterior was restored at a cost of more than $17.1 million.

“This was made possible by contributions from the City of Kingston, the Rural Economic Development program from the province and the federal Cultural Spaces program.” says McCurdy. “The "Let's Make Her Grand Again Campaign" raised $3.35 million towards the overall goal. The Campaign was headed by honourary Co-Chairs Britton Smith and Michael Davies and Co-Chairs Walter F e n l o n a n d F r e d L a fl a m m e . T h e Campaign had about 40 volunteers working on its various committees.”

Today the Grand Theatre houses a 776 seat auditorium, a black box theatre seating 105 and two lounges used for

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exhibitions and receptions. The main auditorium features a full orchestra pit and state of the art rigging systems.

“Before the restoration there wasn’t really a reception area, so the courtyard was covered allowing for a much larger reception and lobby area with a two-storey atrium incorporating the new Springer Lounge which can hold around 30 people.” McCurdy explains, “The now enclosed courtyard provides a pedestrian link between the parking garage, the theatre and Princess Street.”

Since the restoration the theatre has seen many acts both emerging and established and has many more performances planned for the future.

“We are committed to supporting innovation in the field of performing arts,” says McCurdy, “An example would be Spring Awakening, which has been called the first important new Broadway show of the 21st century. This innovative musical will share the stage with time-honoured classics like Oklahoma, The Music Man and Fiddler on the Roof.”

We asked McCurdy where he saw the Grand in five or ten years time. “I want to continue to bring new, emerging acts to Kingston and give back to a community that has given so much to the theatre. In a few years time the new acts we have performing now, will be established and will hopefully be back to perform in front of new audiences and build their following.

“We do not want to compete with other theatres in the area such as the K-Rock, we want to keep our individuality and showcase dancers, musicians, actors and entertainers that offer both tradition and innovation.

“We are focusing a lot on jazz right now and will be launching a Jazz Festival during the last week of June, so we are trying to expand in this genre at the moment.”

The Grand partners with several other theatres within Ontario allowing them to book acts which then perform at several theatres during a tour. This benefits the theatres as they can work together as a larger body and book acts which might otherwise slip through the net. It also benefits the acts themselves as they can book several locations within a close geographical area. Kodo was one such act that was able to perform at locations such as Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and of course Kingston.

When asked what he finds most satisfying about his role, McCurdy replies, “It’s the impact on the community. We get lots of good feedback from patrons which is very rewarding. They are always generous with their compliments. When you are in a big city 46

like Toronto, you don’t always get the feedback, but here we really feel like we are making a difference.�

There is no doubt that the Grand Theatre is making its mark on the cultural landscape, not just in Kingston, but across Ontario and Canada. With so many resurrections and the undying support of locals there is no question that the Grand will be around for many years to come and possibly centuries.

You can check out the schedule of performances at their website www.kingstongrand.ca.

Photo Credit: Tim Forbes

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Photographer reaches new heights for a different perspective

By Jane Toombes Everyone loves photographs, whether it be from the point of view of actually taking them or simply looking at them.

Hasn’t everyone got a few photo albums tucked away or a box of treasured snaps at the back of a cupboard, or these days a hard drive full of holiday pics? Well one man took his love of photography to a whole new level, literally.

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

“Whilst working towards an overall end result,” says Draper, “I believe that it is 48

attention to all the small details that will make the difference between an OK piece and the great piece that you deserve.”

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

It was also around this time that the family moved to Prince Edward County.

His photography business took off and he was soon winning awards for his work.

His images are eye catching and beautiful, turning a simple scenic image into something quite extraordinary. They speak to the viewer and tell a story.

In 2009 Draper launched Polepics which uses a custom made mast system and remotely operated cameras to combine an aerial perspective.

“My aim is to explore the world from a slightly elevated angle because it has a very powerful way of delivering visual communication.” says Draper, “At first I did not think about the commercial aspects, just creating gallery type prints.

“When I talked about my plans, people thought I was crazy as although there are a few other people around the world using masts very few were doing what I planned.

“It was not long before I found myself undertaking a few real estate pictures and

then enquiries for other work started coming in.

“I don't deconstruct my style too much, but I know that my background in the airline industry, missing out on any formal art or photography training has generated an approach to photography and creating images that is as far as I can tell, unique even more so when you add the aerial perspective, the view from the mast provides.”

D o e s D r a p e r fi n d t h e P o l e p i c s photography as interesting and challenging as his other photography work?

“Every time the mast goes up I buzz with excitement because 60' - 70' makes so much difference to the way we see the world. I know that no-one will have ever seen the particular view I'm about to photograph with their own eyes, and in many cases never will.

“There are more astronauts than people doing what I do. I provide consultation and advice to other mast photographers world wide, but have not found anyone doing exactly the same as I do.”

So if he could have any job in the world, what would it be?

“A full time Dad. The best way to influence the world is to inspire your children and fill them with spirit, integrity and love.”

Is there anything that other people would be surprised to find out about him?

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“My favorite movie is The Matrix which I believe is much truer to reality than most people think. Also, I would love to own a sub orbital spaceship so I could travel to any part of the world within an hour or two.”

But back to reality, does Draper have a favorite photograph?

“My favorite image is generally the one I'm working on. My most memorable pictures - I remember huge levels of details regards pretty much every picture I've ever taken which is great - part of the reason I photograph as I can access my memory that way.

“The Olympic Torch Relay in Picton was a special community moment and everything focused on one precise second when Joey Lavender’s torch transferred the flame. I was as nervous taking that picture as the first time I landed a jet airliner full of passengers.

“The ME Church image is well known and special as I was both recording and influencing history at the same time.”

So, what of the future. So much has happened in a relatively short time, where does Draper see his photography in the near and distant future?

“I've a set of images from the backstreets of Shanghai which I hope to exhibit soon and a powerful image from Mumbai called Bombay Sleeper which really influenced my

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outlook on life. It fueled my desire to use photography to help tell 'The Story' or help raise funds for projects I feel strong about. I'd love to photograph the 'magic within the stress' overseas again when my boys are older.

“Our world passes in such a blur, only by exploring a moment frozen in time can the true significance of the seemingly insignificant be realized - and I'm honoured my images can touch the lives of others.”

You can see Steven Draper’s work at Steven Draper Photography and Polepics.

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MUCHMOR SPOTLIGHT

You may have a tax time bomb ticking and not even Protect your estate from know it.

taxes and fees

Are you aware of the fact that income taxes and probate fees in common-law jurisdictions could reduce the value of your estate by up to half? While Canada does not impose death or inheritance taxes, generally your capital assets are considered to have been sold upon your death unless you leave these assets to a surviving spouse on a “rollover basis.�

The income tax implications of this deemed disposition can be severe, and depending on your beneficiaries and the province in which you reside, probate fees in common-law jurisdictions may be assessed on your estate to further erode your legacy. Life insurance, often viewed solely to provide for dependents in the event of an untimely death, can provide an effective way of preserving your wealth for the benefit of your heirs.

Just what is taxable upon death?

Virtually any asset upon which taxes have been deferred will be subject to tax upon your death. This includes the full value of your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) or Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF), as well as half of the gain on any non-registered assets, including recreational property, stock and other investments.

The tax implications on these deemed dispositions can be significant. For example, if the cottage you purchased 30 years ago for $50,000 has appreciated in value to $250,000, upon your death, your estate could face a tax bill of approximately $45,000 on the cottage alone. An RRSP or RRIF containing $300,000 52

of assets would also be taken entirely into income. The result? It too could be cut almost in half once it’s taxed. In commonlaw jurisdictions with relatively high probate fees, such as Ontario, Nova Scotia and British Columbia, these fees can further reduce your estate by thousands of dollars.

Delaying the inevitable Canadians can bequeath capital property directly to their spouse or common law partner with no immediate tax consequences. The proceeds of registered plans can also be ‘rolled over’ to a surviving spouse or common-law partner and remain sheltered from tax. As a result, many tax liabilities can be deferred until the death of the surviving spouse or common-law partner.

Unless the surviving spouse or commonlaw partner enters into a new relationship, the tax deferral ordinarily comes to an end upon his or her death. In these circumstances, estate assets may have to be sold in order to pay long-deferred taxes. However it is important to know that subject to certain conditions, farm property and fishing property can be transferred on a tax-deferred basis from parent to child or grandchild prior to or at the time of death.

While selling assets to pay taxes is an option, it may not always be an ideal solution. Unfavourable market conditions could force the sale of assets at depressed prices, limiting the proceeds available to your estate. Transaction

costs incurred upon these sales could further reduce these proceeds.

Finally, some assets cannot easily be sold. For example, it is not feasible to sell off only a portion of your cottage to cover taxes. This could put someone in the unenviable position of having to raise large amounts of cash if they hope to retain the property they inherit.

Another option Rather than selling assets or borrowing cash to pay fees and taxes, consider purchasing a joint second-to-die life insurance policy to preserve your estate.

These policies insure the lives of both spouses, with proceeds payable upon the death of the surviving spouse. This type of insurance is much less expensive than insuring only one spouse. The proceeds can then be applied to cover your estate’s tax liabilities and other debts, thereby preserving your legacy for the benefit of your heirs.

For a more thorough understanding of what lies ahead for your estate, talk with us today.

Peter Martin BA,CFP Senior Financial Consultant Investors Group Financial Services Inc Call us: (905) 529-7165 Email: peter.martin@investorsgroup.com

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MUCHMOR SNAPSHOT Would you like to see your photo appearing on the back cover of Muchmor Magazine as our monthly “Snapshot?”

If you have a Canadian themed photo that you think we should publish on the back cover email it to snapshot@muchmormedia.com You never know it might just be published next issue.

Tulips in Ottawa