February 09 - 22, 2011
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Conservatives Make Significant Cuts to Programs in Peel Region : Liberal MPs
Liberal MPs (L to R) Navdeep Bains, Bonnie Crombie, Gurbax Malhi, Andrew Kania, Ruby Dhalla, Rob Oliphant and Gerard Kennedy gathered in Ottawa to draw attention to the impacts of the Harper Government’s cuts to local settlement services.
Liberal Members of Parliament and candidates gathered in Ottawa to draw attention to the impacts of the Harper Government’s cuts to local settlement services. In December, the Harper Government cut $53 million dollars from programs that offer support and integration services for new Canadians. “Despite the Harper Government’s attempt to muzzle the affected organizations, we have been able to confirm that over $2.5 million was cut in the Region of Peel alone,” said Liberal MP Navdeep Bains. “We’ve heard stories of entire programs being shut down and others are struggling to make ends
meet.” Funding for settlement services are provided through Citizenship and Immigration Canada, these services offer new Canadians information about how to access essential services and adjust to life in Canada. “The government keeps looking for ways to pay off their unprecedented $56 billion deficit,” said Liberal MP Bonnie Crombie. “The Conservatives need to look elsewhere for this money. Settlement services provide essential programs, especially in the GTA and the Liberal Party will do whatever it can to maintain their funding.” While the Harper Government
cut $53 million for its national grants program, 81% of these cuts were made to programs in Ontario, with most of those made in the Greater Toronto Area despite the fact that this where the majority of immigrants choose to live. “The decision by the Government to cut funding for essential services for newcomers will hurt many families in my riding of Brampton Springdale,” said Liberal MP Ruby Dhalla.” “The Conservative Government should support new Canadians instead of cutting funding and services and leaving people out in the cold.” Shortly after announcing how the cuts will affect Toronto, Liberal MP Gerard Kennedy launched FAIR START– Let New Canadians Succeed, a campaign to counter the devastating Conservative cuts to services that help new Canadians become self reliant. In its first few days the campaign has grown with hundreds of people directly affected by the cuts joining together to show support for the cause. “Conservative cuts to services for new Canadians to become self-reliant are an attack on Canada’s future labour force that will support our economy for many years to come,” said Liberal MP Gurbax Malhi, “Therefore, Fair Start – Let New Canadians Succeed is a necessary campaign to secure Canada’s future and help immigrants to integrate.” “As the Member of Parliament for
Brampton West, I demand that the Harper Conservatives reverse their recent decision to hurt new Canadians by eliminating millions of dollars for settlement services,” said Liberal MP
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Cuts are an attack on Canada’s future labour force
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Gurbax Malhi Member of Parliament
Andrew Kania. “Since their election in 2006, the Harper Conservatives have shown that they simply do not care about new Canadians. After taking office, they reneged on the $200 million promised by the previous Liberal government. Now, to add to the damage, over the 2010 Christmas holidays when Canadians were celebrating with their families, they quietly cut a further $53 million earmarked for settlement agencies: money needed to help some of Canada`s poorest and most vulnerable residents. This callous form of governance is simply unacceptable.” “These mean spirited cuts reveal much about Mr. Harper’s values especially when he is choosing to give $6 billion in tax cuts to large profitable corporations,” said Liberal candidate Omar Alghabra.
Bollywood Superstar Naseeruddin Shah brings new show from Mumbai to the Rose Theatre Brampton
On February 24th, Rose Theatre Brampton and Why Not Theatre present Naseeruddin Shah and his Motley Theatre company from Mumbai in a production entitled Ismat Apa Ke Naam. This will mark the first time ever that Naseeruddin Shah has performed in Canada. The play will be performed in Hindi/Urdu with English surtitles. Ismat Apa Ke Naam is a collection of three short works by one of India’s best-loved writers, Ismat Khanum Chughtai. “Gharwali,” Mughal Bachcha,” and “Chhui Muee” are stories that challenge India’s gender biases, caste system, and notions on the worth of rural women. Motley Theatre was formed by Naseeruddin Shah and Benjamin Gilani in 1979. Since that time, the group has produced multiple short and full-length English plays and for the last eight years also in Hindi. The group tours frequently in India and overseas on occasion. Motley’s uniqueness lies in the diverse range of
plays it has produced from modern classics like “Waiting For Godot”, or the abstract masterpiece “Zoo Story”, to lighter fare such as Shaw’s “Arms and the Man” and Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple”. Naseeruddin Shah is best known for his many starring roles on the Bollywood movie scene including hit films Ghulami (1985), Tridev (1989) and Vishwatma (1992). Later he starred in a couple of international projects including Monsoon Wedding in 2001 and The League of Extraordinary Gentleman in 2003 (co-starring Sean Connery). Ismat Apa Ke Naam will be presented at the Rose Theatre Brampton on February 24, 2011 at 8 pm. Tickets are $35 (B Seating), $50 (A Seating) and limited premium seats are available for $100. The premium tickets also include an exclusive post-show meet & greet and reception. To order call the Box Office at 905-874-2800 or buy online at www.rosetheatre.ca.
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February 09 - 22, 2011
Harper and Obama announce plan to co-operate on Canada – USA trade, border security
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Prime Minister Stephen Harper and U.S. President Barack Obama have issued a Declaration on a Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness. The Declaration establishes a new long-term partnership that will accelerate the legitimate flows of people and goods between both countries, while strengthening security and economic competitiveness. The two leaders also announced the creation of a U.S.Canada Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC) and received the Second Report to Leaders on the U.S.-Canada Clean Energy Dialogue (CED). “This Declaration demonstrates the continued commitment of Canada and the United States to ensuring our common security, while supporting economic competitiveness, job creation and prosperity within a secure environment,” said the Prime Minister. “It builds on the remarkable security partnership between Canada and the United States that has helped keep our borders open to legitimate trade and travellers, and closed to criminal and terrorist elements.” The Declaration will focus on four areas of
co-operation: addressing threats early; trade facilitation, economic growth and jobs; integrated cross-border law enforcement; and critical infrastructure and cyber-security. Canada and the U.S. will develop a joint action plan on perimeter security and economic competitiveness that will set out a range of initiatives in the four key areas to improve both countries’ ability to manage security risks, while facilitating the flow of people, goods and services. In addition to the Declaration, the two leaders also announced the creation of a United StatesCanada Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC) that will reduce red tape by making regulations in a range of sectors more compatible and less burdensome in both countries – which is especially important for small businesses. Increased regulatory co-operation between Canada and the U.S. is expected to generate economic opportunities on both sides of the border, while improving the ability of regulatory agencies in both countries to achieve their objectives.
The City of Toronto has provided notice to the Toronto Civic Employees’ Union (TCEU), Local 416, of its intention to recommend a competitive bid process for three areas of work currently carried out by TCEU members. The services under consideration are provided by the Solid Waste Management Services Division and include all daytime, residential curb-side collection west of Yonge Street to the Etobicoke border, an increase in privatized City-wide litter vacuum operations, and parks litter/recycling collection within City parks throughout the city. The written notice delivered to the union meets the City’s obligation under the collective agreement to provide three months’ notice of its intention to put the recommendation before Council for its consideration. In the three service areas, it is anticipated that approximately 300 positions would be affected. Currently, Solid Waste Management Services Division contracts out approximately half of its
solid waste operations including residential curbside pickup in the former City of Etobicoke, bulk collection in apartments and condominiums, approximately 25 per cent of litter vacuum operations, and various processing operations. The area of residential curb-side collection that would be tendered out for competitive bids is bounded by Yonge Street to the east, the Humber River to the west, Steeles Avenue to the north and Lake Ontario to the south. There are approximately 165,000 homes in the area. This recommendation is subject to City Council’s approval. The Division will prepare a detailed report on the potential contracting out of these service operations that will go to the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee meeting of April 26, 2011. Should Council decide to initiate a competitive bid process, there would be no change of service provider for the solid waste operations until mid-2012.
City of Toronto announces garbage privatization plans
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February 09 - 22, 2011
Sanjeev Maingi is the Ontario PC Candidate for Bramalea-Gore-Malton
Ontario PC Leader Tim Hudak has congratulated Sanjeev Maingi on becoming the Party’s official candidate for Bramalea-Gore-Malton. Hudak thanked Maingi for his commitment to bringing an Ontario PC Government to Queen’s Park that will provide real relief to families, get government focused on the basics and make private sector job creation a priority. Maingi noted that while Dalton McGuinty thinks taxpayers have an endless capacity to pay for his tax grabs, costly energy experiments and reckless spending, the Ontario PC Party will offer real relief to the families of Bramalea-Gore-Malton and make government work for the people who pay for it. Maingi was born in Punjab, India where he studied Chemical Engineering prior to immigrating to Canada in 1994. Since then he has called Brampton home and has worked in the automotive industry as a chemical technician and process supervisor, and now owns
“Ontario families need to be able to catch up from the strain of McGuinty’s HST tax grab and hydro hikes You can count on an Ontario PC Government to focus its energies on protecting the family budget.” Tim Hudak, Ontario PC Leader “Families throughout BramaleaGore-Malton are paying more and getting less. Only an Ontario PC Government will offer real relief to Ontario families who can no longer afford Dalton McGuinty.” Sanjeev Maingi, Bramalea-Gore-Malton Ontario PC Candidate an information technology solution business and a restaurant. Maingi’s active community involvement includes raising funds for Shriner hospitals. He and his wife Priyanka are the parents of a son, Vardaan,
and daughter, Harshita. The provincial election will be held on October 6th.
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February 09 - 22, 2011
With Conservatives, Canada Is Open For Business : Devinder Shory, MP Conservative MP Devinder Shory (Calgary Northeast) recently shared positive news about the Canadian economy, new job numbers and his recent trade visit to an International Business Summit in India. “At 7.8%, our Canadian unemployment rates is nearly 2% better than our American neighbours,” said MP Devinder Shory. “Our Conservative Government has focused on jobs, growth and lower taxes, and it is paying off.” It was announced that 69,200 Canadian jobs were created in January, a number 4.5 times higher than market expectations and almost double the 36,000 jobs created in the United States during the same period of time. “Because of Conservative leadership, Canada now has the lowest overall tax rate on new business investment among the major developed economies (G-7), the lowest debt and deficit of those major economies, the world’s soundest banking system, according to the World Economic Forum, the most skilled workforce, with the highest proportion of post-secondary graduates in the Organisation for Economic Co operation and Development, the most generous research and development (R&D) tax incentives in the industrialized world and an outstanding quality of life, with safe streets, a high standard of living, universal health
care, a sound educational system and a beautiful natural environment,” said MP Shory. Besides lowering taxes, the Harper Conservative government is also opening more doors for Canadian job-creating businesses by concluding new free trade agreements with eight countries, while negotiating economic partnerships with two of the world’s largest economies: the European Union and India. “In January, I had the pleasure to meet government and mid-sized pipeline and mining industry officials during meetings in Delhi and Gujarat,” said MP Shory. “It was very positive, and I am extremely happy that so many people from emerging economies like India’s want to invest in Canada.” Along with MP Devinder Shory, the Canadian delegation included Conservative MP Patrick Brown, Conservative Senator Michael MacDonald and Canadian High Commissioner to India Stewart Beck. “While we were there, 11 Memorandums of Understanding were signed with the potential for more than $1 billion in bilateral investment,” said MP Shory. “Our Conservative Government promised we would focus on jobs and growth, and we are delivering strong results. With Conservatives, Canada is open for business.”
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February 09 - 22, 2011
Canadian RADARSAT-1 images assist in global emergencies
(NC)—Canada’s Earth Observation Program made a giant leap on November 4, 1995 when RADARSAT-1 was launched and placed on its orbit some 800 kilometres above the Earth. In the last fifteen years, RADARSAT-1 has
mapped the world, capturing images day and night in all weather conditions. Its data is used to plan emergency response and relief efforts both here in Canada and across the world, under the International Charter on Space and Natural Disasters. In October 2000, images of the Po River in Italy were captured to help monitor the rising flood waters. Back home, RADARSAT-1 images helped Canadian rescuers during the Red River flooding in Manitoba in 1997. RADARSAT-1 is an integral part of coastal and maritime pollution surveillance. In December 2008, the satellite provided images of the salvage operations after the Irving Whale oil spill off the coast of the Maritimes. RADARSAT-1 is recognized around the world for its consistent, reliable performance. In Canada and for clients in over 60 countries, RADARSAT-1 provides images used in ice services, cartography, agriculture, oceanography, hydrology, and forestry. In January 1999, 276 images of Canada were compiled, resulting in the first mosaic of Canada –
an instantaneous snapshot of the entire country. To sustain RADARSAT’s internationally competitive position and meet Canada’s increasing need in Earth observation, the Canadian Space Agency developed a follow-on radar satellite program. In 2007, RADARSAT-2 was launched, a new generation satellite with enhanced capability. It has been performing flawlessly since then, ensuring continuity in collecting earth images. Based on all these remarkable successes, the Canadian Space Agency is working on the next phase of the RADARSAT program by developing the RADARSAT Constellation. Made of three small earth observation satellites, the RADARSAT Constellation will provide complete coverage of Canada’s land and oceans offering daily access to images of 95% of the world to Canadian and international users. These satellites are planned for launch in 2014 and 2015. Fifteen years later, the RADARSAT program continues to survey the globe, helping us to better understand our home planet. Its success is a tribute to the ingenuity and perseverance of the Canadian engineers and scientists who developed and built the original RADARSAT-1 satellite. With an estimated life expectancy of five years, RADARSAT-1 is celebrating this year fifteen years of operations - a great Canadian success story.
Five ways to get your business plan going
(NC)—You have the best business idea and you’ve been thinking about it for years. You know that this idea will turn into a spectacular entrepreneurial success. Fantasizing about where your new business will take you is fun but the real challenge comes from sitting down and describing your idea in a formal business plan. After all, this document is vital to understanding how your business is going to succeed and will be required reading for lenders and potential investors. Need help in getting started? Here are five ways to get your plan onto paper:
1. Talk about your plan with everyone Tell anyone you can about your business idea. Feel free to keep sensitive information secret, but discussing your general idea is a great way to get your business brain going. You will be surprised by how many people have an opinion, know key people in an industry or have had an experience around the type of business you’ve chosen. Practice explaining your plans to people and in no time you will be able to translate these conversations to paper. 2. Print Business Cards to Get Inspired It’s a simple trick but it can really encourage you to make your plans a reality. It costs little, takes a
few minutes and can make your business idea much more tangible. Having a card with your name followed by “President and CEO” can make your plan seem less like a far way dream and more like an attainable reality. 3. Run your own Focus Group Get a few friends, colleagues or whomever else you can get a hold of. Write down a list of questions related to your business plan and have an informal discussion. Bring up questions like “Would you buy this product?”, “What do you hate about this industry?” or “Where would you buy this service today?” You’ll be impressed at how much business planning material you’ll get from even a small group of people. 4. Pictures Don’t be afraid to get creative in the appearance of your business plan. While you need to write a well-thought out description of your business ideas, insert a few colour pictures within the text to make a text-only document come alive. 5. Use Free Government Services Want to save time when getting demographic data or lists of potential suppliers? Use free services such as those offered by Canada Business Ontario, a joint service from the Governments of Canada and Ontario. Canada Business Ontario (www.canadabusiness.ca or 1-888-745-8888) can provide detailed consumer spending reports, lists of companies in a specific town and even industry news and trends. If you know what you’re looking for, free information like this can easily be inserted into your business plan to support your ideas and give your business plan a professional look and feel. What if you don’t know what you are looking for? Their Business Information Officers can help identify what you need. Access all of Canada Business Ontario’s services at www.canadabusiness.ca or call the Business Info Line at 1-888-745-8888.
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February 09 - 22, 2011
New Canadians have tax obligations too By Patrick Henry
NC)—Every year, thousands of immigrants make Canada their new home. But living in a different country can be a major adjustment, especially if you are unfamiliar with having to file an income tax form. “Even if you are new to Canada, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) expects you to comply with your tax obligations,” says Cleo Hamel, senior tax analyst with H&R Block (hrblock.ca). “It is important to find out your residency status under the CRA rules and what this means to your tax return.” People entering Canada can be classified as non-residents, or they may be deemed residents or part-year residents, depending on how long they stay and if they establish residential ties. People who immigrate to Canada on a permanent basis are usually considered part-year residents for tax purposes. Part-year residents are taxed on their world income from the date of entry, so all income earned in a tax
year must be reported. “Every new Canadian needs to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) as soon as possible,” explains Hamel (1-800-HRBLOCK). “You will need a SIN to file a tax return and qualify for tax credits.” Part-year residents may be entitled to the GST credit after their arrival. Parents should also complete a Child Tax Benefit Form RC66 from the CRA as soon as they arrive. “Your tax obligations on investments and properties will be calculated based on the Fair Market Value (FMV) on the date you entered Canada,” says Hamel. “The FMV will determine any capital gains or losses after you arrive, meaning you don’t pay more tax than you need to.” If you are new to Canada, it is important to make sure you claim the credits to which you are entitled while ensuring you comply with the existing tax laws and treaties.
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(NC)—Resolving to save more this year? Carrie Russell, Senior Vice President, TD Canada Trust offers these top five tips on how to be better with your money in 2011: 1. Save a little every paycheque: Talk to your bank about setting up an automatic transfer of a regular amount from your everyday bank account to a savings account or TFSA every time you get paid. The money will be transferred before you get a chance to see it, so you won’t miss it. To help you “get” the world of saving and start building your future, check out the videos on www.tdgetsaving.com. 2. Spend less than you make: “If you spend everything you earn—or more—you’ll never get ahead,” says Russell. If you make purchases with cash, keep your receipts. If you pay with debit or credit, keep track of what you’ve spent by regularly review your transactions online. At the end of the month, create a list of your expenses. You need to know where your money goes in order to determine where you can cut back. 3. Get good advice: “Advice tends to be more meaningful when it comes from someone whose judgment and experience you respect,” says Russell.
Make a resolution to get advice from someone you trust about financial matters, whether that is how to bank smarter, invest for retirement or just how to save more effectively – perhaps an older relative who has weathered economic booms and busts, or a friend who is very disciplined about their money. Or consider speaking with a financial advisor. 4. Differentiate between the things you need and the things you want: Determine how much you can afford to spend on “wants” by calculating how much your “needs” will be, like rent, utilities and groceries. “To help spend your dollars wisely, begin by clearly identifying what you need and what you want — and then deal with the ‘need’ side first,” says Russell. “And remember, a budget only works if you stick to it.” 5. Pay off your credit card balance at the end of every month: A credit card is a great tool to facilitate midmonth purchases, manage cash flow and build your credit rating, which you need in order to purchase a house or a car. But, if you don’t pay off your balance each month, it can not only cost you extra money in interest charges, it could also affect your credit rating.
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February 09 - 22, 2011
Toronto Now Series Explores Modern Treasures of South Asian Neighbourhoods
The sixth installment of the Art Gallery of Ontario’s ongoing Toronto Now series will feature an exhibition by local artist Sameer Farooq and international artist Mirjam Linschooten. Organized in collaboration with SAVAC (South Asian Visual Arts Centre), the AGO presents The Museum of Found
Objects: Toronto (Maharaja and --), on view from February 5 to April 3, 2011. The Museum of Found Objects: Toronto (Maharaja and --) features an archive of everyday objects from Toronto’s South Asian neighborhoods. Using traditional museum tactics such as collecting, preparing, interpreting and displaying, Farooq and Linschooten have created what appears to be a typical museum installation. On closer inspection, it is apparent that their museum cases contain objects from active South Asian neighbourhoods in Brampton, Mississauga, Scarborough and Milton. As a result, the process of making art and displaying art becomes unexpectedly merged.
Coinciding with Maharaja: The Splendour of India’s Royal Courts, The Museum of Found Objects: Toronto creates an opportunity for visitors to make a clever comparison between the value of historic and present-day objects. The Maharaja exhibition celebrates the historic pride of Indian culture and the splendours of India’s great Kings. The Museum of Found Objects considers the importance of everyday objects, creating a museum of the present that reflects the on the experience of South Asians living in Toronto. “We are thrilled to be working with SAVAC and the artists to present The Museum of Found Objects: Toronto,” says Michelle Jacques, AGO acting curator of Canadian art. “This project is a fascinating example of how contemporary artists challenge and expand art history and museum practices. Farooq and Linschooten were inspired by the Maharaja exhibition, but their project also celebrates a living community and an ongoing culture.” The Museum of Found Objects was first developed in Istanbul, as a commission from the Turkish Ministry of Culture during the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture.
Budgeting for interest rate hikes (NC)— Borrowers need to beware in 2011. Interest rates, near historic lows for much of the past two years, are widely expected to increase through the latter half of 2011. The cost of carrying debt, including mortgages, lines of credit and credit cards, will be affected. “Low interest rates have enticed many Canadians to spend more on credit,” says Stephen Reichenfeld, VP and wealth counsellor, Fiduciary Trust Company of Canada. “But an improving economy means lending rates will likely rise. It’s important to take steps today and prepare for potential higher borrowing costs in the years to come.” Four steps that can help prepare you to come out ahead: • Reduce personal debt. Do what you can today to decrease your debt load before borrowing costs increase. Review the option to lock in borrowing costs now and consolidate debt at a lower interest rate. If you’re only making minimum payments on
your credit cards, start paying more. • Rethink your mortgage. If you have an adjustable rate mortgage, and you plan to be in your home for at least five years, consider refinancing options such as converting to a fixed rate mortgage at current rates. • Equity funds. Stocks tend to benefit more than fixed income products like bonds in a rising interest rate environment. Past market cycles indicate sectors like industrials and technology benefit when interest rates rise. Additional investment ideas are available on websites like www.fiduciarytrust.ca. • Don’t hesitate on a major purchase. Consider accelerating your plans to purchase now before interest rates rise. If you’re in the market for a new car, there may be zero percent financing and other incentives available. These offers often disappear as rates rise. Remember, meet with a financial advisor to ensure these steps work for your situation.
Unique ways to melt her heart this Valentine’s Day (NC)—Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and you’re still baffled about what to get your special someone. But you do know one thing: whatever you do or don’t do on Valentine’s Day will be shared with your lady’s family, friends, colleagues, stylist, and anyone who appears remotely interested. Men can score big points just by putting a little thought into the day. Here are some great suggestions to make your typical Valentine’s traditions a little more unique. Dinner in Bed: Breakfast in bed is so passé and besides, who has time for that anymore? Although breakfast in bed sounds like a great start to the morning, the romance is stifled by the need to get to work or run errands. Instead, try dinner in bed. This romantic picnic allows time to relax and enjoy conversation without worrying about the rest of the day. Make a Donation in Her Name: Select a charity that lets you customize a donation in
your loved one’s name. Through charities like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada, you can purchase a baby goat in your lady’s name if she’s an animal lover, or specifically choose to sponsor a child that shares your loved one’s birthday or favourite subject in school. Putting time into your selection is what will make this gift unique. A Dozen Roses: Instead of surprising her with a fistful of roses, leave single roses in various places throughout the day so that by evening, she will have an entire bouquet. She will spend the day looking forward to the next place you thought of for her. Love Coupon Book: Try to think of things that she would never expect such as a full day of shopping with no whining or a chick-flick of her choice instead of the hockey game, again with no whining. These love tickets extend the celebration past one day and will result in a positive return.
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February 09 - 22, 2011
Scotiabank Launches “Bright Future” Community Program
Scotiabank has launched an international philanthropic program uniting the Bank’s charitable, social and community efforts and employee volunteer activities under one new banner - Scotiabank Bright Future. Scotiabank President and CEO Rick Waugh was joined by special guests including Free The Children Founder, Craig Kielburger as he announced the program at an event held in Toronto last month. “From its earliest days almost 180 years ago in
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Scotiabank has held a steadfast belief in supporting the unique needs of each community it serves,” said Rick Waugh, President and Chief Executive Officer, Scotiabank. “While our operations have grown worldwide, we have maintained our focus on community service. The Bright Future program will enable Scotiabank and its 70,000 employees worldwide to build upon this tradition of creating a bright future – one community at a time.”
As part of the launch Scotiabank also announced the establishment of “The Scotiabank Bright Future Young Leaders Award”, which will recognize youth from Canada and international locations for outstanding contribution to their communities annually. Applications for the first youth awards will be accepted later this year, with the first recipients announced in the spring of 2012. The Bright Future program, including information for charities seeking support, can be found on the Bright Future website in English, Spanish and French. The Bank will also be launching a new internal Bright Future platform in three languages, which includes all information on the program as well as localized lists of volunteer opportunities for employees. A recent Canadian poll conducted by Harris/ Decima demonstrates that people feel strongly about corporate philanthropy. Nearly three-quarters of Canadians (72 per cent) are more inclined to volunteer, fundraise, or donate to local charities provided their employer supports these initiatives. The Scotiabank Bright Future program comes at the beginning of the 10th anniversary of the International Year of Volunteerism. Information on the program can be found on the Bright Future website at www.scotiabankbrightfuture.com.
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Facebook Raises $1.5 Billion
Investment Values Facebook at $50 Billion
Facebook has announced it has raised U.S.$1.5 billion at a valuation of approximately $50 billion. The transaction consisted of two parts. In late January 2011, Goldman Sachs completed an oversubscribed offering to its non-U.S. clients in a fund that invested $1 billion in Facebook Class A common stock. In December, Digital Sky Technologies (DST), The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., and funds managed by Goldman Sachs invested $500 million in Facebook Class A common stock at the same valuation. “Our business continues to perform well, and we are pleased to be able to bolster our cash position with this new financing,” said David Ebersman, Facebook’s chief financial officer. “With this investment completed, we now have greater financial flexibility to explore whatever opportunities lie ahead.”
February 09 - 22, 2011
Walmart Canada to open 40 supercentres in the coming fiscal year Walmart Canada has announced that it plans to open 40 supercentres in the company’s next fiscal year, which runs from February 1, 2011 to January 31, 2012. The projects, which will include building new stores and expanding, remodelling or relocating existing stores, will represent an investment of more than half a billion dollars in Canadian communities. The supercentres are expected to generate more than 9,200 store and construction jobs. Specific store locations will be announced over the coming weeks and months. Walmart also confirmed that it is bringing the supercentre program to two new provinces in 2011—Manitoba and Quebec. Walmart Canada’s supercentre format, which was first launched in Ontario in 2006 and is available in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan, provides a full range of groceries and general merchandise under one roof.
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NEWS
Ontario Government Seeking Input To Help Improve Services For Young Children Ontario is seeking input on the best way to provide more timely, effective and convenient supports to children and their families. The input will help the province develop Best Start Child and Family Centres in communities across the province. Building on the government’s full-day kindergarten plan to help kids get a stronger start, developing these centres will help integrate and connect services for families of young children, providing parents with the right information and supports at the right time. The final framework is expected to be released this summer. Participate online or download the form at www.ontario.ca/beststart Establishing Best Start Child and Family Centres is an important part of the province’s Open Ontario Plan to support young children and families and provide them with the foundation they need to succeed.
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February 09 - 22, 2011
Government of Canada helping foreign-trained physiotherapists get jobs The Government of Canada is helping internationally trained physiotherapists find meaningful work faster. Mr. Dean Del Mastro, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, made the announcement in Toronto recently. “We recognize the importance of helping foreign-trained health care practitioners get jobs in their fields,” said Mr. Del Mastro. “Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, we are working with partners to improve foreign credential recognition. Projects like this one will help new Canadians put their knowledge and skills to work sooner in communities across Canada.” The Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators is receiving support
from the Foreign Credential Recognition Program to improve its current system for assessing the education and work experience of foreign-trained physiotherapists. The Alliance will research best practices for credential and language evaluations used internationally and in related fields in Canada. This will result in a series of recommendations to streamline the overall licensing process for internationally trained physiotherapists wanting to practise in Canada. Under the Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, the Government of Canada is working with the provinces and territories and other partners, such as regulatory bodies, to address barriers to foreign credential recognition.
In 2010, service standards were established so that foreign-trained professionals in eight priority occupations, including nurses and physiotherapists, can have their qualifications assessed within one year, anywhere in Canada. This is one example of progress toward a more fair, transparent, timely and consistent system for foreign credential recognition across Canada. This year, we will start improving foreign qualification recognition for six more target occupations, including physicians and dentists. The physiotherapists’ project, which is receiving over $100,000 from the Government of Canada, demonstrates how the Framework is bringing meaningful change to the way that newcomers’ qualifications are assessed and recognized in Canada.
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NEWS
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February 09 - 22, 2011
NATIONAL STUDY FINDS MOST CANADIANS BELIEVE NATURAL DISASTERS BECOMING MORE FREQUENT AND SEVERE Ontario Science Centre study shows three quarters of Canadians feel that climate change will lead to more serious natural disasters
According to a new study commissioned by the Ontario Science Centre, 76 per cent of Canadians feel that natural disasters are occurring more frequently and also believe that climate change will lead to more serious occurrences in the future. Ironically, despite this concern, one in three Canadians say they do not know what supplies they would need to get through an emergency. “This study shows us that Canadians have a gap in their knowledge about what to do if faced with a natural disaster,” said Lesley Lewis, CEO, Ontario Science Centre. “These findings make our upcoming exhibition Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters even more relevant. It’s our opportunity to educate the public on natural disasters in a compelling and engaging way.” When it comes to emergency preparedness, the study found that most Canadians believe they have enough food, water and supplies to last the recommended 72 hours in case of an emergency. However, one in five Canadians say they will not be able to reach the 72-hour mark.
The study was prepared in time for the upcoming launch of the Ontario Science Centre’s new temporary exhibition, Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters, opening February 11. The exhibition features activities and educational material on natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, hurricanes and tornadoes and how people cope and adapt in the aftermath of such disasters. Activities include: an interactive display of real-time earthquake activity across the globe, a build-your-own volcano station, the stories of Hurricane Katrina survivors and a station that makes you feel as though you are in the centre of a tornado. Additional Survey Highlights: • 76 per cent of Canadians also either strongly agree or somewhat agree that climate change will lead to more serious natural disasters in the future. • One in four Canadians believe major natural disasters such as floods or tornadoes are likely to pose a risk to their households in the next few years. • 22 per cent of Canadians think an earthquake is likely to pose a risk to their home in the next five
years. • 15 per cent of Canadians believe a hurricane is likely to pose a risk to their home in the next five years. • Regional perceptions of these risks vary significantly - earthquakes are of concern to the majority of British Columbians; while for most Atlantic Canadians, hurricanes are a major concern. In Ontario 29 per cent say a tornado is likely to pose a risk to their homes. • Older Canadians and female Canadians are somewhat more likely to say disasters are more frequent and more likely to pose a risk to their households. • 82 per cent of women either strongly agree or somewhat agree that natural disasters are occurring more frequently compared with only 68% of men. The survey was conducted by The Gandalf Group with an online survey amongst 1,020 Canadians. The survey was conducted in French and English on January 20th and 21st, 2011.
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SOUTH ASIA
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Cell # 647-702-5445 The Union Minister for Textiles, Shri Dayanidhi Maran addressing at the inauguration of the “ABHUSHAN”, an International Jewelery Exhibition - A Joint Programme with the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India & World Crafts Council, in New Delhi on February 04, 2011.
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Handicrafts exports has recorded a growth of 18% and reached Rs.8614 crore till January 2011, in comparison to the same period in the fiscal year 2009-10. Dayanidhi Maran, Indian Textiles Minister, said this while inaugurating International Jewellery Summit “Abhushan – Design Dialogues in Jewellery” organized by
World Craft Council in Delhi. Maran said that handicraft industry is a shining example based on the use of local resources and local initiatives. It is estimated that there are around 65 lakh artisans engaged in this sector for their livelihood, Maran added. With a view to enhance the lives of handicraft artisans, Maran said that
Textiles Ministry provides them marketing support. He hoped, that the International Jewellery Summit would provide a platform for collaboration of artisans and designers from all over the world and synergise their ideas to produce new attractive and outstanding business as well as innovative marketing strategies.
Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates India Show in Istanbul
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The Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurating the India Show, in Istanbul, Turkey. Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, inaugurated the “India Show” in Istanbul, Turkey on February 3rd at the Tuyap Fair Convention and Congress Centre. Addressing on the occasion “India and Turkey– Prospects and Challenges”, Scindia said: “India-Turkey Strategic Partnership has to be viewed from an overarching perspective that draws on strategic, political and economic consideration”. More than 160 engineering companies have participated in this show notable among them be-
ing Tata Motors, Bajaj Precision, HMT International, Ramakrishna Forgings, Noida SEZ, Mahindra World City, etc. Other notable participants includes: Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Tourism, Coffee Board and Tea Board. The State Governments of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh were among those who represented the different States of India. The show has exhibits from various sectors of Indian engineering showcasing the engineering transformation that is currently in process in India. In a bilateral meeting with his
Turkic counterpart Mr Nehat Ergun, the Turkish State Minister of Commerce and Industry, both Ministers pledged to take bilateral trade and economic cooperation beyond the set target of US$ 5 billion by 2012. The bilateral trade between Turkey and India growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 27% reached US $ 3.14 billion in 2009-10 from US $ 1.2 billion in 2005-06. The bilateral trade target between India and Turkey is US$ 5 billion by 2012 and USD 10 billion in the next 10 years.
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SOUTH ASIA
February 09 - 22, 2011
Pakistani investigators name Musharraf accused in Benazir’s murder case
Investigators in Pakistan have requested an Anti-Terrorism Court to declare former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf absconder in the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Benazir Bhutto, the two times Prime Minister of Pakistan, was killed in firing and suicide attack in the garrison city of Rawalpindi in Dec. 2007 when Musharraf was ruling the country. The Musharraf government had blamed the then Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsood for Benazir’s killing, a charge denied by Pakistani Taliban. Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) prosecutor Chaudhry Zulfiqar told the court that Musharraf had been named as an “absconding accused” as he has shown lack of cooperation. A United Nation inquiry report said last year that the attack on Benazir Bhutto could be averted if tight security measures had been taken. The anti-terrorism court is conducting the trial of five suspects, including members of the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, who have been charged with planning and facilitating the assassination. All have denied any involvement. A prosecutor for the FIA told the court that Musharraf had been called
several times in connection with the investigation but he did not appear and he has been declared absconder. The prosecutor requested the court to declare Musharraf as absconder until the next hearing on Feb. 12, and if he failed to appear at the court, he should be declared proclaimed offender. A spokesman for Musharraf dismissed the FIA report as a politically motivated move and said it is aimed at hiding the real causes of the murder of Benazir Bhutto. Musharraf, who has been living in self-exile in Britain since April 2009, has said that he intended to return to Pakistan before the next general election in 2013. He formed a new party, the All Pakistan Muslim League, with an eye to the next polls.
Germany indicts top LTTE leader
A spokesman for the LTTE in Germany has been indicted on terrorism charges, Germany’s federal justice authorities said in Karlsruhe. Agilan W., who now holds German citizenship, was arrested in November and indicted Jan 24. Prosecutors said he was spokesman in Germany for the Tamil Coordination Committee, a front for the LTTE, from 2004 to the end of 2009 and oversaw its public relations. Three other leaders of an alleged LTTE front were earlier arrested and indicted.
No date was given for the 35-yearold’s trial on a charge of membership in a foreign terrorist organisation and breaching German export laws. That charge relates to his allegedly purchasing equipment worth 370,000 euros ($500,000) from group funds to LTTE and sent this gear to Sri Lanka, German media reported. The European Union declared the LTTE a terrorist group in June 2007. Germany indicted three other activists in the TCC, Vijikanendra V.S., Sasitharan M. and Koneswaran T. in August.
Pak PM consults political leaders for reducing size of cabinet Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has consulted with the leaders of various political parties by telephone for reducing the size of the federal cabinet in accordance with the austerity measures being taken in the wake of economic difficulties. The consultation was held in the spirit of reconciliation.The Prime Minister spoke to Mian Nawaz Sharif, Quaid of PML (N), Pir Syed Mardan Shah of Pagaro Sharif, Quaid of PML (F), Altaf Hussain, Quaid of MQM, Asfand Yar Wali, President of ANP, Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Amir of JUI(F) and Munir Khan Orakzai, Leader of FATA Parliamentarians.
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SPORTS
February 09 - 22, 2011
India aim to break home Sreesanth replaces Praveen in World Cup squad jinx in ICC World Cup
Having faltered twice at the doorstep of the title contest previously when they hosted the World Cup, India would be eager to break the jinx this time around and regain cricket’s most
coveted trophy when they commence their campaign in the mega-event against co-hosts Bangladesh at Dhaka on February 19. In 1987, Kapil Dev failed to lead the country to their second successive crown as his team was swept off the perch by Mike Gatting-led England in the semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Mohd. Azharuddin also could not pilot his squad back on to the throne of One-day cricket nine years later when India co-hosted the World Cup along with Sri Lanka and Pakistan, as his team was knocked out by eventual champions Lanka in the semi-final at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. This time around Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his men are aiming to disprove India’s jinx as host nation of the World Cup, aiming to make it third time lucky in the tournament that the country is co-hosting with Lanka and Bangladesh. The Dhoni-led team has the iconic Sachin Tendulkar, who will be playing in his sixth World Cup that would place him at par with Pakistan great Javed Miandad, to look forward to --besides a very talented and balanced team - for ferrying back the World Cup to India after 28 years. England and the West Indies loom as the major threats in the remaining matches but with the group also consisting of minnows Ireland (11th seed) and The Netherlands (13), Dhoni and his men would be fancying their chances of entering the last eight from where
the do-or-die stage starts. Tendulkar, who has created a staggering array of records in ODIs too apart from Tests, is going to be the lynch pin of the team’s strong batting line up. While Tendulkar would be the man marshaling the top order that has top shots Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir, Dhoni is there to take control of the latter part of the innings in the company of big-shot players like Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and Suresh Raina. Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh seem to hold the aces in pace and spin bowling with the others working in tandem with this pair. The team looks very strong in batting, has a varied bowling attack with lots of options in part-time slow bowlers like Yuvraj and Pathan, but may be handicapped by lack of enough swiftmoving out-fielders and attacking fielders inside the ring. While India have the advantage of playing all their league matches, barring the opener, in front of adoring home fans, it can also act as a double-
edged sword especially if the players don’t do well. Dhoni sounded confident that the squad members would handle the pressure of huge expectations of the fans and followers with aplomb. India’s World Cup team: MS Dhoni (Capt, WK), Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli, Yusuf Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, S Sreesanth, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, Munaf Patel, Piyush Chawla, R Ashwin. India’s preliminary group matches: v Bangladesh (Feb 19, Dhaka); v England (Feb 27, Bangalore); v Ireland (Mar 6, Bangalore); v Netherlands (Mar 9, Delhi); v South Africa (Mar 12, Nagpur); v West Indies (Mar 20, Chennai).
In a major setback for the Indian team before their World Cup campaign, fast bowler Praveen Kumar has been ruled out of the tournament due to an elbow injury. He will now be replaced by Sreesanth. Praveen had returned home during the ODI series against South Africa, after he had aggravated an elbow injury. Despite that he was included in the final 15 squad for the World Cup. He was undergoing treatment at Bangalore’s National Cricket Academy after which he went off to England. But the injury was just not getting better and time was running out, so Praveen is out. The other fast bowlers in the Indian squad are Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra and Munaf Patel.
Mobilicity customers to score big during ICC Cricket World Cup As the start of the ICC Cricket World Cup draws near, Mobilicity has announced it will provide Canadian cricket fans with direct online access to the latest match scores on ESPN and Cricbuzz so they can keep tabs on their favourite teams on their Mobilicity mobile phones. The Cup will be held in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh from February 19 through April 2, 2011. “Staying on top of the latest ICC Cricket World Cup scores will be a click away on Mobilicity mobile phones,” said Mobilicity Vice President of Marketing Sara Moore. “Whether you’re at work or at home in the middle of the night, having direct mobile access is the most
convenient way to follow the standings.” Mobilicity will also debut cricket wallpapers on its unique, customizable content portal on February 9th. The portal, which includes both multicultural and mainstream content, enables customers to personalize their phones with a wide range of ringtones, games and wallpapers. Mobilicity provides industry-leading value and the latest handsets/smartphones on its state-of-the-art 3.5G network. Its unlimited plans start at just $25/month while its top-of-the-line unlimited plan, which includes unlimited data, is just $45/month. Mobilicity also offers superior value through its global long distance offerings. Its Unlimited Asia Add-On provides unlimited calling to India, China, Hong Kong and Singapore when customers add the $20 feature onto any calling plan.
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ENTERTAINMENT
February 09 - 22, 2011
Rahman to perform Live at the Oscars The Mozart of Madras is all set to repeat his magic at the 83rd Annual Academy Awards. Indian music maestro AR Rahman is going to perform his Oscar nominated single ‘If I Rise’ with Brit popstar Florence Welch on February 27. This will be the Rahman’s second performance at Oscar awards. He last performed in 2009, singing Jai Ho, and took home both awards he was nominated for. Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2010 will be presented on Sunday, February 27, 2011, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.
Etihad launches dance competition with Katrina Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the launch of ‘Next Stop Bollywood’, an online dance competition with Katrina Kaif, the airline’s brand ambassador. Since Bollywood dance is synonymous with India and resonates with millions of Indian fans at home and globally, it provides a perfect vehicle to communicate and connect with this large audience. “Katrina has brought her inimitable style, sophistication and glamour to our brand. As our brand ambassador she has been an eloquent spokesperson for us and is able to connect effortlessly with her vast fan base to carry the Etihad message around the world,” said, Andrew Ward, Etihad Airways’ Vice President Marketing. The online competition will be run through a custom-built Facebook application where contestants can upload and share their dance videos for public voting. The 10 videos with the maximum number of votes will be short listed and Katrina Kaif will select and announce the three finalists and the ultimate winner on May 20, 2011. The first prize is a lunch with Katrina and USD 5,000 cash prize, two Pearl Business Class tickets, and accommodation in a 5-star hotel for five nights. The second runner up will receive two Pearl Business class tickets, and the third runner-up, two Coral Economy class tickets to anywhere on the Etihad network across 66 destinations.
Priyanka to sizzle with Aamir in ‘Dhoom 3’ Priyanka Chopra, who has had several Bollywood superhits to her name, has bagged yet another prestigious role in her kitty. According to press reports, Priyanka will be sharing screen with the perfectionist Aamir Khan in Yash Raj Films Dhoom franchise. Priyanka has been signed to play a lead role in ‘Dhoom 3’. The actress, who is currently busy promoting her film ‘Saat Khoon Maaf ’, has reportedly given her nod to Yash Raj Films. Confirming the news, a source said, “YRF has a very good professional working relationship with Priyanka. Yash Chopra and Aditya are both keen that she should play the girl opposite Aamir.” Buzz has it that YRF had been looking for an actress who is good at stunts. And considering that Priyanka has done many such roles in the past, she was a strong contender for the role.
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EVENT
February 09 - 22, 2011
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