Canada - your journey starts here.

issue 50

PLACES PEOPLE
Kingston, Ontario a city with Feats with Feet - One mans
inspirational story of
culture and history. courage.

Cultural Director Brian McCurdy Meet The Mayor - Mark

Gerretsen Mayor of
talks about his vision for Kingston.
bringing the performing arts to
Photographer Steven Draper
Kingston's Grand Theatre.
reaching new heights for a
different perspective.
The history of the Canadian
Tulip Festival

plus so muchmor…..

muchmormagazine.com Muchmormagazine muchmor

 follow your passion, live your dream...
✓ Reaching from the Bay of Quinte to
Algonquin Provincial Park
✓ Ontarioʼs Artisan Cheese Region
✓ Double the national average of artists & artisans
✓ One of the top 15 places visited in Ontario (Statcan)
✓ Weʼre “Rurban” - rural with an urban flair
✓ 90 minutes to Toronto, 2 hours to Ottawa

For more information about Hastings County please contact:

Andrew Redden, Economic Development Manager: reddena@hastingscounty.com

MUCHMOR MEDIA prior permission in writing from the publisher.

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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 3

 THE CONTENTS

PEOPLE

14 Story of inspiration Meet the Mayor

18
Looking for a city with culture and history? Then
MUCHMOR PLACES 06 Kingston, Ontario should be way up on your list
of must sees
The history of the Canadian Tulip Festival
10
Feats with feet. One mans inspirational story of
MUCHMOR PEOPLE 14 courage

Meet the Mayor: Newly elected Mayor of

18 Kingston Mark Gerretsen

Air travel health & wellbeing: How altitude affects

MUCHMOR LIFESTYLE 22 your body

An urban jewel nestled amidst the natural beauty

26 of lakes and forests in the heart of Northeastern
Ontario. The City of Greater Sudbury

6 Discovering Kingston Ontario PLACES

4
THE CONTENTS

FEATURED

42 Performing arts in Kingston Photographer Steven Draper

48
Real life story: Janet & Jon recently celebrated their
MUCHMOR IMMIGRATION 32 third anniversary, not of marriage but of being in
Canada, having first arrived in January 08.

Real life story: O Canada! Smiths Falls resident

36 becomes one of Canada’s newest citizens

Queens Newcomer Group puts out the welcome

40 mat in Nova Scotia

We sat down with Cultural Director Brian McCurdy

MUCHMOR FEATURED 42 to find out more about his vision for bringing the
performing arts to Kingston, Ontario.

Photographer Steven Draper originally from the UK

48 reaches new heights for a different perspective

Financial advice: You may have a tax time bomb

MUCHMOR SPOTLIGHT 52 ticking and not even know it.

32 Janet & Jon real life story IMMIGRATION

5
MUCHMOR PLACES
Looking for a city with
culture and history? Then
Kingston, Ontario should be
way up on your list of must
sees.
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
By Jane Toombes
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

Photo Credit: Frontenac County Court House: John Vetterli

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.

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.

9
 The history of the Canadian
Tulip Festival: A celebration
founded on friendship

10
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

11
 meaning to the people of Canada and its
Capital Region.
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-in-
exile 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
who were fighting for their survival in
Europe. The only royal baby ever born in
North America, her birth created a living
bond between the people of Canada and
the Netherlands. To ensure the baby’s
Dutch citizenship, the Canadian
government temporarily ceded a room at
the Ottawa Civic Hospital to the
Netherlands. On January 19, 1943, the
fl a g o f t h e N e t h e r l a n d s fl e w o n
Parliament’s Peace Tower and Princess
Margriet was born a Dutch citizen on
Dutch soil in the safe haven of Canada.
Once the war had ended, the people of
the Netherlands and Princess Juliana
sent the Canadian people many
12
magnificent gifts, including 100,000 tulip
bulbs to Canada’s Capital in gratitude for
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
The first Canadian Tulip Festival was held
in 1953 lead by the Ottawa Board of
Trade, at the suggestion of world-
renowned photographer Malak Karsh.
Karsh is considered the founder of the
Festival and his photographs have
immortalized the tulip. Through his
efforts, the Canadian Tulip Festival was
formalized to coincide with the tulip’s
annual bloom. In 2002, the Festival
celebrated its 50th Anniversary dedicated
to its founder, having expanded to an
event of 18 days, showcasing over 3
million tulips throughout Canada’s Capital
Region.
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

13
MUCHMOR PEOPLE

14
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 Nepal-

born Calgary resident, it is a daily
routine.

15
 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 auto-
detailing 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

17
18
Meet the Mayor
Newly elected Mayor of Kingston, Mark Gerretsen

By Jane Toombes
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.

19
 Q: If you could change anything about yourself
what would it be?
A: Always running 5 minutes late!
Q: What do you most value in other people?
A: The insight that life-experiences have
to offer.
Q: Mac or PC?
A: PC
Q: Where has been your most memorable
travel destination and why?
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)
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: What has been your best moment since
becoming Mayor? And your worst?
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: If you could have any job in the world, what
would it be and why?
A: I am living it!
Q: If you knew the world was going to end
tomorrow, what would you do today?
A: Tell everyone how much I enjoyed our
time together!
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
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?
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.
22
By Jane Toombes
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.
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
23
 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.
24
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

25
 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.

26
 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.

29
 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

31
CGS_newcomer_AD_2011.indd 1 3/17/11 12:59 PM
 MUCHMOR IMMIGRATION

32
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

33
 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.
35
 O Canada! Smiths Falls
resident becomes one of
36
Canada’s newest citizens

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.
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.
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.
37
 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 five-
y 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.
38
“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

39
 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.

40
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 interest-
b a s e d
questionnaire
Queens Newcomer Group Walking The Trestle Trail In Liverpool was provided,
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.

41
 MUCHMOR FEATURED

42 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.
44 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
45
 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

47
 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?
49
 “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

50
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.

51
 MUCHMOR SPOTLIGHT

You may have a tax time

bomb ticking and not even
know it. Protect your estate from
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 common-
law 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 common-
law 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
53
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