newcomer bulletin winter 2012

1www.newcomerbulletin.com WINTER 2012 | NEWCOMER BULLETIN

newcomer

BULLETINEDUCATED MOVE

Income tax: Is it a friend or a foe to foreign students?

PLUS

Canada has a new mantra for international students –

come, study, stay.

WINTER 2012 | VOL. 1 | NO. 2 www.newcomerbulletin.com

HOME BUYINGWelcome to Canada. Determine what steps you need to take as a first-time home buyer.

Bulletin Layout Winter.indd 1 12/5/2011 11:30:07 PM

2 NEWCOMER BULLETIN | WINTER 2012 www.newcomerbulletin.com

www.trentu.ca/internationalwww.trentu.ca/esl

[email protected]

■ Trent-ESL: English for University ● Full-time Academic Preparation for University and College Study■ Part-time Professional English Programs ● Business English ● English for Information and Communication Technology ● English for Science■ Sessions begin September, January, April and June ■ Outstanding Undergraduate Research University■ Prestigious Scholarships■ Supportive International Community■ Smaller University Environment

BUSINESS v ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE v MOLECULAR BIOLOGY v COMPUTER

SCIENCE v INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL ECONOMY v NURSING v SUSTAINABLE

AGRICULTURE v PSYCHOLOGY v MEDIA STUDIES v JOURNALISM v ARCHAEOLOGY



www.trentu.ca/internationalwww.trentu.ca/esl

[email protected]

■ Trent-ESL: English for University ● Full-time Academic Preparation for University and College Study■ Part-time Professional English Programs ● Business English ● English for Information and Communication Technology ● English for Science■ Sessions begin September, January, April and June ■ Outstanding Undergraduate Research University■ Prestigious Scholarships■ Supportive International Community■ Smaller University Environment

BUSINESS v ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE v MOLECULAR BIOLOGY v COMPUTER

SCIENCE v INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL ECONOMY v NURSING v SUSTAINABLE

AGRICULTURE v PSYCHOLOGY v MEDIA STUDIES v JOURNALISM v ARCHAEOLOGY



23 CLICK Newcomer Bulletin Launch

20 PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Finance

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

ADVERTORIAL

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES12 International studentsThe fresh round of immigration reforms has sparked renewed vigor to Flemimg College’s waning interna-tional program. Policies used to be restrictive for people seeking to come and study in Canada. Not anymore. Canada’s message to international students: we want you.

18 HousingBuying a home for the first time can be tricky. A few tips can make a whale of a difference.19 CareerNeed a job? Network and volunteer. An opportunity sometimes knocks where one least expects it.20 FinanceBeware of bankruptcy. That could hinder an application to sponsor relatives to come to Canada.

28 Canoe musuemPaddle through marine highways and lifeways and understand how the canoe has shaped the Canadian cultural identity.

30 Training weldersAn initiative is under way to help ease a shortage of welders. The plan involves establishing a welder-training center in the Philippines.

CONTENTS

4 Pillars Consulting 11Canadian Welding Skills 31Carmela Valles Immigration Consulting 29City of Peterborough 5Cosmic Charlie’s 8Curry Village 7Fleming College Back CoverImmigrant Advisory Services 27Informed Financial Growth 9McConkey Real Estate Corp. 9Network Marketing 10New Canadians Centre 17NMT Foot Reflexology 27nofrills 26Ontario Graphic Solutions 29Pappas Billiards 29Persian Food 25Plumbing By Doug Inc. 27Realty Executives Alison Ltd 18ReFrame Peterborough International Film Festival 21Reg Ward Insurance Services Ltd 3State Farm 14Stickling’s 10Taste of India 16Trent University 2Turco Tile 27Wensten Accounting Inc. 8

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS

7 PartnershipThe New Canadians Center has forged a partnership agreement with the school boards to provide assistance to newcomer students. 8 Welcome passA Welcome Pass program allows new-comers to Peterborough to have access to the city’s cultural and recreational spaces.11 Skilled immigrantsCanada plans to increase its intake of federal skilled workers in 2012. The best and the brightest are welcome.

NEWS DIGEST

COVER STORY

12 COVER STORY Some of the international students at Fleming College

Make OurCommunityYours

WelcomePeterborough.ca



Make OurCommunityYours

WelcomePeterborough.ca



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BULLETINMEDIAPLUS VILLAGE

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K9J 3G6Phone: (705) 772-7172

Fax: (705) 743-2331E-mail: [email protected]

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EDITORIAL

EDITORBeverly Lomosad

[email protected]

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION

MARKETING MANAGERRamon Valles

[email protected]

ART

DESIGN AND LAYOUTLarry Lopena

[email protected]

ADVISER

CONSULTANTCarmela Valles

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EDITORIAL [email protected]

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Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the in-formation contained in this publication. However, Mediaplus Village regrets that it cannot accept liability for error or omis-sions contained in this publication, however caused. The opin-ions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publica-tion, which is provided for general use and may not be appro-priate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclu-sive property of Mediaplus Village. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review.

HUNT FOR THE BESTAND THE BRIGHTEST

FROM THE EDITORBEVERLY LOMOSAD

UPFRONT

Canada is continuing its path of seeking the world’s best and

brightest. The most-recent immigration reforms, announced in early November 2011, include providing a pathway for international students to become permanent residents. Economic realities call for the immigration reforms, the government said.

Labor shortage looms, for example. Throughout Ontario, a shortfall of 190,000 workers is forecast in 2020, rising to 364,000 by 2025 and 564,000 by 2030, according to a report by The Conference Board of Canada. The forecast strikes as seemingly odd, with today’s unemploy-ment numbers in, for instance, Peterbor-ough hovering above 10%. The unem-ployment trend, however, is expected to reverse itself from 2014 onward, the report said.

With economic planners raising the specter of a labor shortage, Canadian im-migration authorities look to international students as potentially the skilled, edu-cated and young immigrants the country needs to battle labor-market challenges.

Our cover story, starting on Page 12, ze-roes in on the Student Partners Program and tracks the progress of its imple-mentation more than two years after it launched in April 2009 as a pilot project that taps India as a source country for international students. The success of the pilot run triggered an expansion of SPP to China.

SPP has provided a breath of fresh air to Fleming College’s waning international program. The college has successfully mounted a recruitment drive in India, and Indian students, mostly coming through the SPP, now account for more than 40% of its international student body.

Peterborough hosts about 800 interna-tional students from Trent University and Fleming College alone. Obviously, not all of them desire to remain in Canada after finishing school. Why did they come in the first place? Reasons differ from country to country. For South Korean students, overseas study and work experi-ence in English-speaking countries are considered a big boost toward gaining employment back home.

Getting international students to come comprises only one leg in the quest for the best and brightest. Getting them to remain is another.

TRANSITIONOur international-student report pack-age includes a showcase of former Trent University international students, Page 16, who have successfully transitioned to a life in Peterborough after completing their university studies.

Forest Li, a certified income-tax con-sultant, also wrote a sidebar, Page 14, in which he outlines the tax benefits an international student may be entitled to and press a claim for.

Read on for more. Enjoy our Winter Issue. ■

Cover Illustration Larry Lopena

Photos

PPCII Conference Elizabeth Thipphawong, NCCSWIS, Welcom Pass NCCTIP Camp Trent Internatinal Program officeWinter Potluck Michael Salalila, Maryam MonsefFleming Welcome Reception Fleming College

FALL ISSUE

Photos

NCC Appreciation Dinner Bob LaingCanada Multicultural Day Julio Campos, NCCPPCII Meeting NCC

CREDITS



NEWS DIGEST

The New Canadians Centre has forged

partnerships with the school boards under a program called Settlement Worker in Schools or SWIS.

SWIS places settlement workers at “home-base” schools under the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPR) and the Pe-terborough Victoria Nor-thumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNC).

“SWIS provides an impor-tant link for newcomers,” said Dawn Franklin, SWIS coordinator. “Moving is stressful – it can be a very

School boards, NCC partnerto assist newcomer families

emotional and isolating experience for both par-ents and children. We can provide information and referral to community and government agencies to immediately address their questions and needs. We also want to help them feel welcome and involved in their community by encour-aging them to participate in local cultural events.”

Diane Lloyd, KPR chair-person, said the role of SWIS in providing much-needed assistance to new Canadian families as they adapt to life in a new coun-try and a new education system will help to ensure

student success in schools.

“Schools are one of the first services newcomers connect with in the com-munity,” said Dave Bernier, PVNC chairperson. “We are pleased to be working with SWIS workers to assist our immigrant and refugee students and their families to make their transition to our communities and Catholic schools easier.”

SWIS complements pro-grams in place at schools. At KPR schools, for instance, English as a Second Lan-guage (ESL) program had existed for years. In 2010, the ESL program served about 200 newcomer stu-dents and their families, ac-cording to Rusty Hick, KPR director of education.

At PVNC schools, two itinerant ESL teachers as-sist newcomers, said Greg Reeves, PVNC direc-tor of education. “Our

COFFEE AND CHAT

Are you a newcomer? Do you wish to meet other newcomer families over coffee or tea?

If so, contact:

Peterborough(705) 743-0882

Northumberland and Clarington(289) 244-5176

[email protected]

Catholic school board recognizes and celebrates diversity in our communi-ties and the importance of welcoming families from many cultural back-grounds to our schools,” Mr. Reeves said.

With three staff, SWIS has served more than 100 clients, consisting of parents and students, since it began in March 2011. ■

Reading activity with Dawn Franklin, SWIS coordinator

SWIS staff Steve Ross in a board game



The Peterborough Art Gallery The Canadian Canoe Museum

Free Admission Free Admission

250 Crescent 910 Monaghan Road

(705) 743 9179 (705) 748 9153

Kawartha World Issues Centre Lang Pioneer Village Museum

Free Admission Free admission to some events

Trent University, Rm B101 470 Water Street

(705) 748 1680 (705) 295 6694 Ext. 21

Kawartha Youth Orchestra Public Energy

Discounted ticket price to $5 Free Admission to One Event

150 King St. 160 Charlotte St

(705) 931 7539 (705) 745 1788

O’Kaadenigan Wiigashk Collective ARTSPACE

Free Admission to most Events Free Admission

All Around Peterborough 378 Aylmer Street North, Unit 3

(705) 559 1551 (705) 748 3883

Riverview Park and Zoo Peterborough Public Library

Free Admission No charge for out of town library card

1230 Water Street 345 Aylmer St. N.

(705) 748 9301 ext:2331 (705) 745 5382

Peterborough Folk Festival Early Years


725 Armour Road 201 Antrim Street

(705) 874 6796 (705) 748 9144

Doors Open Peterborough Hutchinson House Museum

Free admission to some events Free Admission

500 George Street North 270 Brock Street, Peterborough

(705) 742 7777 Ext. 1491 (705) 743 9710

Peterborough Lift Lock Visitor Centre Market Hall

Free Admission One Free show (call in advance)

353 Hunter Street East Peterborough 140 Charlotte St.

(705) 750 4950 (705) 749 1146

Peterborough Symphony Orchestra Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

Discounted ticket price to $15 Free Admission

311 George St N. 4601 Guthrie Drive

(705) 742 1992 (705) 748 6324

Peterborough Museum & Archives Conservation Centre


300 Hunter Street East 3414 Hope Mill Road

(705) 742 7777 ext 2471 (705) 745 5791 ext. 224

Peterborough Singers Showplace Performance Centre

Free Admission to one Concert Free Admission to one show

175 Murray Street 290 George Street North

(705) 745 1820 (705) 742 7089

WELCOME PASS PARTNERS

NEWS DIGEST

Welcome Pass: A newcomer’s gateway to Peterborough spotsLast summer, couple Bruce and Jen Xiao heard of the New Canadians Centre’s (NCC) Peter-borough Welcome Pass program. Someone at the NCC explained to them that the program is de-signed to give newcomers access to the cultural, arts and recreational spaces in Peterborough.

They registered for the program, received their welcome pass and joined a fishing trip to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, which is one of 22 organizations that signed up for the program. Much to the couple’s delight, Jen won the grand prize of a complete camping/fishing gear in a ticket draw during that fishing trip.

The couple moved to Peter-borough in 2007 after Bruce received a job offer as an in-dustrial electrician at Quaker Oats/Pepsi Co. They used to live in Toronto and Thunder Bay. “We went where the jobs took us,” Bruce said. Jen said Peterborough is where they have lived the

longest since arriving in Canada in 2001.

The couple have two children – David, 4, and Daniel, 2. Jen’s parents live with them as well, helping the couple with their boys.

They find Peterborough as a truly friendly and wel-coming community.

In June 2011, the welcome-pass program was chosen as one of the recipients of the inaugural grants from the Community Founda-tion of Greater Peterbor-ough. So far, the program has provided the oppor-tunity for 44 newcomer families and 50 college and university students to have access to the cultural and recreational spaces of the Peterborough region.

At present, 22 organizations have offered access to their venues for free or on dis-counted rates as part of the program, which is funded by the Greater Peterborough Museum Network and the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough. ■

Jen, left, and Bruce, along with their two kids

Wensten Accounting Inc.

Forest Li, M. Sc.CITC / CBPhone: (705) 749-9288E-mail: [email protected] 311 George St N, Suite 200PPeterborough, ON K9J 3H3

Get all the benefits available to you in the form of income-tax credits and refunds. The benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Property (rental) tax credits• GST credits• Child tax benefits (CCTB, UCCB, Fitness and Activity credits)• Working tax credits•• Donation / medical / moving credits• Education (tuition and textbook) credits To get these benefits, you need to file an income-tax return each year. The tax returns will also help you in your Canadi-an-citizenship application in the future.

Wensten Accounting Inc. specializes in filing income-tax re-turns for immigrants, international students, business owners and corporations. Also, it can help you register a business and handle GST and payroll issues. Please call for more information.



The Peterborough Art Gallery The Canadian Canoe Museum


250 Crescent 910 Monaghan Road

(705) 743 9179 (705) 748 9153

Kawartha World Issues Centre Lang Pioneer Village Museum

Free Admission Free admission to some events

Trent University, Rm B101 470 Water Street

(705) 748 1680 (705) 295 6694 Ext. 21

Kawartha Youth Orchestra Public Energy

Discounted ticket price to $5 Free Admission to One Event

150 King St. 160 Charlotte St

(705) 931 7539 (705) 745 1788

O’Kaadenigan Wiigashk Collective ARTSPACE

Free Admission to most Events Free Admission

All Around Peterborough 378 Aylmer Street North, Unit 3

(705) 559 1551 (705) 748 3883

Riverview Park and Zoo Peterborough Public Library

Free Admission No charge for out of town library card

1230 Water Street 345 Aylmer St. N.

(705) 748 9301 ext:2331 (705) 745 5382

Peterborough Folk Festival Early Years


725 Armour Road 201 Antrim Street

(705) 874 6796 (705) 748 9144

Doors Open Peterborough Hutchinson House Museum

Free admission to some events Free Admission

500 George Street North 270 Brock Street, Peterborough

(705) 742 7777 Ext. 1491 (705) 743 9710

Peterborough Lift Lock Visitor Centre Market Hall

Free Admission One Free show (call in advance)

353 Hunter Street East Peterborough 140 Charlotte St.

(705) 750 4950 (705) 749 1146

Peterborough Symphony Orchestra Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

Discounted ticket price to $15 Free Admission

311 George St N. 4601 Guthrie Drive

(705) 742 1992 (705) 748 6324

Peterborough Museum & Archives Conservation Centre


300 Hunter Street East 3414 Hope Mill Road

(705) 742 7777 ext 2471 (705) 745 5791 ext. 224

Peterborough Singers Showplace Performance Centre

Free Admission to one Concert Free Admission to one show

175 Murray Street 290 George Street North

(705) 745 1820 (705) 742 7089

WELCOME PASS PARTNERS

NEWS DIGEST

Welcome Pass: A newcomer’s gateway to Peterborough spots

This is not an offer to sell securities. Any investment must be made pursuant to an offering memorandum for the relevant province. Interested persons are invited to obtain a copy of the offering memorandum. Fortress is available to both non-accredited and eligible investors. Fortress is a product, not a mort-gage brokerage. Licensed mortgage agents/brokers close all transactions. Approved persons and organizations may enter into referral arrangements with Fortress Real Capital and/or Centro Mortgage and will be compensated for having referred, directed or introduced prospective investors/lenders to For-tress Real Capital/Centro Mortgage. All mortgage transactions in Ontario (investors/lenders and subject properties domiciled in Ontario) are performed by Centro Mortgage, FSCO license 10102 unless specifically noted otherwise.

CONTACT:

IFGInformed Financial Growth

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$6.5 BillionThat’s the total spending of long-term and short term international students in Canada in 2008 on tuition, accomodation and discretionary expenses.

$17,000That’s the average amount an international student pays each academic year at Trent University.

$13,000That’s the average amount an international student pays each academic year at Fleming College.

Sources:Fleming CollegeRoslyn Kunin & Associates Inc.Trent University

NEWS BY THE NUMBERS

NEWS DIGEST

Filmfest reels off Jan 27-29ReFrame Peterborough Interna-tional Film Festival takes place on January 27-29, 2012. The festival is Peterborough’s mid-winter extravaganza – three days of outstanding film, food, art and activism that celebrate life and human dignity around the globe. Spend the weekend in downtown Peterborough while traveling around the world. See films that will entertain, inform and inspire.

ReFrame is a co-operative ef-fort. The audience forms the heart of the event, but the more than 80 volunteers bring the festival to life. Over 125 com-munity organizations and busi-nesses sponsor the three-day event. Representatives of local groups introduce programs, linking themes in the films to what is happening in the com-munities.

Film descriptions and other information about the festival are available on www.reframe-filmfestival.ca.

Preceding the main festival is the REELkids Film Festival, which offers family entertain-ment through film and music. In the afternoon of January 14, 2012, the film The Sound of Mumbai: A Musical will

be screened at Market Hall. A group of young musi-cians based in Port Hope, La Jeunesse Youth Orchestra, will perform a few pieces from the Sound of Music.

Visit www.reelkids.ca for more information. ■

2011 ReFrame Film Festival

Many newcomers to Canada face diffi-culties finding employment. Even university-educated immigrants are less likely to be employed than their Canadian-born counterparts, according to Statistics Canada. And even when one spouse arrives because of an ex-isting job offer, the other spouse often struggles to find meaningful employment.

Having a home-based business in network marketing is a viable option for newcomers.

To get your free report:

Call Ruth van Vierzen at (705) 772-2443 or visitwww.workfromhomeonlinebiz.com/financialfreedom

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• Very low start-up cost (typically ranging from $50 to $500)• Particularly suited to stay-at-home parents• Unlimited free training • Unlimited free training and income potential• Proven, sophisticated systems• Can be worked part-time or full-time• Creates more million- aires than any other aires than any other industry

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9,243

9,499

30,197

30,252

36,578

UNITED STATES

UNITED KINGDOM

CHINA

INDIA

PHILIPPINES

5,539

5,946

6,796

6,815

6,934

0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000

SOUTH KOREA

MOROCCO

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

IRAN

FRANCE

NEWS DIGEST

Canada aims for moreskilled workers in 2012Canada is planning to welcome more federal skilled workers in 2012, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney has announced.

The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program remains the principal avenue for permanent immigration to Canada. In 2012, Citizenship and Immi-gration Canada (CIC) plans to welcome 55,000-57,000 fed-eral skilled workers, up from 47,000-47,400 in the 2011 immigration-levels plan.

“The government’s number one priority remains the economy. We recognize the importance of immigration to our labor market, and we value the contributions of skilled immigrants who add to our international competitive-

ness,” Mr. Kenney said. “We are committed to facilitating the ar-rival of the best and the brightest to our country.”

CIC completed an exten-sive evaluation of the FSW program in 2010, showing that the program is working well and selecting immigrants who perform well economically. The report found that 89% of federal skilled workers were employed or self-employed three years after landing.

Moreover, 95% of the em-ployers surveyed indicated that federal skilled workers were meeting or exceed-ing their expectations. The evaluation indicated a strong continuing need for skilled immigrants in Canada. ■

CIC works to ease backlogon family-reunification filesCanada will cut the backlog and wait times for sponsored parents and grandparents.

Currently, more than 165,000 parents and grand-parents who have applied to become permanent residents of Canada are still waiting for a final deci-sion. Each year, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) receives applications for sponsorship of nearly 38,000 parents and grand-parents, a number that will only continue to expand if

no action is taken.

“Wait times for family-class sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents now exceed seven years, and without taking action, those times will continue to grow, and that is unacceptable,” said Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney. “Action must be taken to cut the backlog, reduce the wait times and ensure that the parents and grandparents program is sus-tainable over the long run.” ■

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12 COVER STORY Michael Walter shows off some of his bakery products

EDUCATED MOVEA SLEW OF NEW INITIATIVES INCLUDES EXPEDITING APPLICATIONS OF INTER-NATIONAL STUDENTS FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCY WITHOUT HAVING TO FIRST RETURN TO ONE’S HOME COUNTRY.

Fleming College is breathing a new life

into its international program – thanks to an unprecedented level of openness shown recently by the Canadian govern-ment in a bid to attract international students.

In a grand gesture of welcome, the college arranged a formal get-together reception for its new batch of international students in early October 2011, shortly after start-

just to fulfill their destinies but to fulfill ours as well.”

Fleming’s renewed vigor for its international pro-gram stems largely from the policy-perspective shift of the Canadian govern-ment to open doors for foreign students. “Policies used to be very restrictive – now, they are very open,” said Debbie Harrison, the college’s diversity coordi-nator. “The message that the Canadian government is sending to international students abroad is: we want you.”

INDIAN MARKETRecently, Fleming received a boost after it gained entry into the Student Partners Program (SPP), a joint pilot project between the Citizenship and Im-migration Canada (CIC) and the Association of

of-school. The city mayor graced the event. So did 19 teachers and adminis-trators, led by the college president, Tony Tilly, who promised to organize a similar reception each semester henceforth.

Peterborough City Mayor Daryl Bennett played a generous host in his words of welcome. “Like every community in Canada, we are a community of im-migrants,” he said. “Un-like some other places in

the world, however, we view our diversity as one of our greatest assets. At the heart of that idea is a belief that immigrant inte-gration is absolutely essen-tial for our social, cultural and economic progress as a community.”

“We are a people who believe that our origins matter less than our des-tinations, and that where you come from is not as important as where you are going. We embrace diver-sity as an asset. And we reject diversity as a liability. The point is that we are all partners in the building of welcoming communities. We understand that we are a people who welcome others to our shores – not

COVER STORY

Peterborough City Mayor Daryl Bennett, right, and Fleming College President Tony Tilly welcome international students

Carol Kelsey, dean of the School of Education, Health and Wellness at Fleming College, with international students



12 COVER STORY Michael Walter shows off some of his bakery products

COVER STORY

Cath D’Amico, acting director of the international program at Trent University, right, with Bilen Goitem, an international nursing student

Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC). On the strength of its acceptance into SPP, Fleming mount-ed a recruitment drive in India in partnership with Toronto-based Centennial College of Applied Arts & Technology.

The goal of SPP, which launched in April 2009, is to increase the acceptance rate for students from India coming to study at certain Canadian colleges and universities.

India did emerge as a considerable growth area for Fleming in 2011, with a total of 32 students mostly coming through the SPP.

Across Canada, the SPP has resulted in a drastic spike in the number of Indian students, CIC and ACCC reported. In 2008,

India ranked seventh – behind South Korea, China, United States, France, Japan and Saudi Arabia, in that order – as a source country for students to Canada, with 3,250 students.

In 2010, India soared to the second spot – be-hind China – with 11,543 students sent to Canada, CIC statistics showed. During the first nine months of the launch of SPP, CIC’s visa offices in

India received more than 4,000 applications for the program. Incidentally, in 2010, India’s gross domes-tic product breached the US$1.5 trillion mark, mak-ing its economy the ninth largest in the world.



Forest Li

If you are an interna-tional student living in Canada, you should file your income-tax return to claim income-tax benefits, including GST credits, rent (property) tax credits and education credits. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will give these credits to you in the form of tax refunds.

The GST credits amount to $253 for 2010 and is the same for every stu-dent. The rent tax credit depends on the rent you paid to your landlord for the whole tax year. The more rent you paid, the

COVER STORY

Income tax: Is it a friend or a foe to foreign students?

more tax refund you will get. The rent tax refund is about $400 each year.

The education credit is calculated based on the T2202A slip, which shows the eligible tuition

paid and the number of months of your full-time or part-time studies in the school. T2202A can be printed out directly from your student account kept on the university’s web-site. You will not receive the cash value for the education credits; it will be used to allow you to pay less income tax or get more refund in the future. The tax-saving benefit can be as high as $20,000 for a four-year, full-time university student.

When filing your tax return, you need to get these documents ready:

▪ Social Insurance Number (SIN) or Individual Tax Num-ber (ITN)▪ Passport (if you do not have SIN or ITN)▪ T2202A (Tuition, Educa-tion and Textbook Amounts Certificate) ▪ Rent Receipts▪ Bank Account Information ▪ Other slips such as T4, T4A, T5

The income-tax return is filed with the CRA. It takes about two months for the CRA to process your return. You will always get a refund, and CRA can deposit the refunds directly into

SPP has checks and bal-ances in place – from requiring applicants to provide verifiable docu-mentation, to a feedback mechanism where Canadi-an schools report back on whether students show up.

“We were previously only recruiting pas-sively – meaning, students somehow found us, either because their relatives or friends have gone to Flem-ing, or because they were looking for specific pro-grams not available every-where. Some are looking

for a particular Peterbor-ough experience because they either have friends or families in the region. Others are planning to immigrate to Canada and have chosen Peterborough as their destination,” Ms. Harrison said.

“However, in the past few months, we have been ac-tively recruiting students.”

INTERNATIONAL MIXThroughout most of Oc-tober 2011, Derek Arm-strong, the person Flem-ing hired in April 2011 to

1010074 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, Aurora, Ontario

Brian Mulligan Ins Agcy Ltd

Brian Mulligan, Agent

273 Hunter Street West

Bus: 705-749-5425 Toll Free: 877-620-9677

www.brianmulligan.ca

Our auto insurance is something your car may not always be. Easily.



COVER STORY

your bank account if your bank information is provided. Your return may be selected by CRA for review, so you need

to keep the above-men-tioned information for six years.

If you need more infor-

mation, you may go to CRA’s website at www.cra-arc.gc.ca. You may also contact Wensten Accounting at (705)

749-9288 if you need help with your income-tax return. – By Forest Li, certified income-tax consultant

WE ARE A PEOPLE WHO WELCOME OTHERS TO OUR SHORES – NOT JUST TO FULFILL THEIR DESTINIES BUT TO

FULFILL OURS AS WELL

bolster its international program, crisscrossed four major cities in China, rep-resenting the college in an education-exhibition tour. “We were there not only to recruit students from China but also to create awareness of the Fleming brand,” said Mr. Arm-strong, international busi-ness development manager of the college.

Fleming currently has 74

international students, including those under its student-exchange pro-grams. They account for a small fraction of the col-lege’s student population, which stands at slightly over 6,000. Fleming aims to increase its internation-al-student tally to 5% of its population in the next 3-5 years, Mr. Armstrong

told Newcomer Bulletin.

India and China are Flem-ing’s primary markets.

At the larger Trent Univer-sity, international students make up 10% of its entire 7,000 student body, said Cath D’Amico, acting di-rector of the Trent Inter-national Program and ESL manager. “Other schools aim for 50% of their population to be interna-

tional students. That is not our objective – 10% seems to be a good blend, and it seems to be the standard for most universities across Canada,” she said.

Trent markets in countries where students are mobile in general – meaning, they can obtain study permits with relative ease. Trent

international students come from East Asia, northern Europe and the Middle East.

Whether at Trent or Flem-ing, the logic behind inter-national recruitment, apart from obviously creating revenue streams, is the cre-ation of a diverse student body, officials interviewed by Newcomer Bulletin said.

“We are committed to de-veloping the global citizen-ship of our students. We recognize that we are part of a bigger picture, that we are a global community,” Ms. D’Amico said. “Every student at Trent deserves the opportunity to have an international experi-ence – either by meeting an international student at Trent or by going abroad to study for a portion of their degree. They will be given credit for that part of study.”

By culturally diversifying, according to Fleming’s

Ms. Harrison, the col-lege hopefully makes it easier for other diverse students to also come in – for example, immigrants from Peterborough and elsewhere in Canada as well as members of visible minorities.

ECONOMIC PACKAGEAs the number of interna-tional students in Canada surged, so is their econom-ic influence.

In a 2009 study, the first that put a dollar figure on the impact of the interna-tional students to Canada’s economic life, consult-ing firm Roslyn Kunin & Associates Inc. reported that, in 2008, international students spent in excess of $6.5 billion on tuition, ac-commodation and discre-tionary spending.

As a result, more than 83,000 jobs were created and more than $291 mil-lion in government rev-enue generated.



School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Computer ScienceYear completed: 2005Originally from: ColumbiaReason to stay: FamilyCurrent employment: Settlement Worker at New Canadians Centre

School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Anthropology and Development StudiesYear completed: 1993Originally from: PhilippinesReason to stay: FamilyCurrent employment: Settlement Worker in Schools

School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Business Administration minor in EconomicsYear completed: 2011Originally from: EcuadorReason to stay: WorkCurrent employment: Employer Liaison at Workplace Integration Centre

School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Sociology and Development StudiesYear completed: 1994Originally from: PhilippinesReason to stay: FamilyCurrent employment: Immigration Consultant at Carmela Valles Immigration Consulting

School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Psychology and SociologyYear completed: 2009Originally from: MalaysiaReason to stay: WorkCurrent employment: Settlement Counselor at New Canadians Centre

Carolina Orduz Teodosia Villarino Gabriel Ribadeneira Carmela Valles Faye Shien Tan

COVER STORY

TRANSITION: FORMER INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS NOW SETTLED IN PETERBOROUGH

WE ARE COMMITTED TO DEVELOPING THE GLOBAL

CITIZENSHIP OF OUR STUDENTS

At Fleming, tuition for an international student averages $13,000 each aca-demic year, and at Trent, $17,000.

In contrast, a domestic student pays between $3,600 and $4,000, on average, each year.

Overall, the total $6.5

billion that international students spend in Canada is greater than the coun-try’s export of conifer-ous lumber ($5.1 billion), and even greater than its export of coal ($6.07 bil-lion) to all other countries, states the Roslyn report commissioned by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.

In 2010, 96,157 interna-tional students were admit-ted to Canada, up from 67,878 in 2005, according to official figures.

INITIATIVESIn recent months, CIC announced new initiatives that allow international students to apply from within Canada for perma-

nent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and shorten the waiting period in the im-migration queue. Started in 2008, CEC of-fers a pathway to perma-nent residency for interna-tional students and skilled and highly skilled tempo-rary foreign workers.



School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in International Development Studies and English LiteratureYear completed: 2009Originally from: NigeriaReason to stay: Work and further educationCurrent employment: Office of Student Affairs at Trent University

School: Trent UniversityProgram: Environmental Studies (Graduate Program)Year completed: 2000Originally from: MexicoReason to stay: Work Current employment: Laboratory Manager at Kawartha Ethanol Inc.

School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Sociology and Development StudiesYear completed: 1994Originally from: PhilippinesReason to stay: FamilyCurrent employment: Immigration Consultant at Carmela Valles Immigration Consulting

School: Trent UniversityProgram: in Psychology and EnglishYear completed: 2002Originally from: SingaporeReason to stay: Work, family, further educationCurrent employment: Outreach Coordinator at New Canadians Centre and Course Instructor at Humber College

School: Trent UniversityProgram: BA in Psychology and SociologyYear completed: 2009Originally from: MalaysiaReason to stay: WorkCurrent employment: Settlement Counselor at New Canadians Centre

Kemi Akapo Maria FigueroaCarmela Valles Yvonne LaiFaye Shien Tan

COVER STORY

TRANSITION: FORMER INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS NOW SETTLED IN PETERBOROUGH

A corollary initiative intends to accept up to 1,000 international PhD students each year as permanent residents through the Federal Skilled Worker Program.

International students account for about one-quarter of the students enrolled in Canadian PhD programs.

“Research shows that international students integrate really well,” Ms. Harrison said. “They are young, and they are adaptable. Obviously, it is easier to start a new life in another country when you are 25 than when you are 55. They also speak English very fluently, and they are, by and large, single; so they are mobile. So, they are real asset for the Cana-dian society.” ■



PRODUCTS AND SERVICES HOUSING

CLARENCE COLLISON has been in the real-estate business for 25 years and has been a licensed broker for the past 15 years.

HOUSING ACTIVITY IN PETERBOROUGH

SINGLE-DETACHED

SEMI-DETACHED

ROW, APARTMENT,

OTHERSSTARTSQ3 2011 78 0 9Q3 2010 79 0 15% change -1.3 n/a -40Year-to-date 2011 186 2 36Year-to-date 2010 237 0 23% change -21.5 n/a 56.5UNDER CONSTRUCTIONQ3 2011 182 4 34Q3 2010 172 0 52% change 5.8 n/a -34.6COMPLETIONSQ3 2011 83 0 7Q3 2010 94 0 16% change -11.7 n/a -56.3Year-to-date 2011 170 0 54Year-to-date 2010 254 0 16% change -33.1 n/a **COMPLETED NOT ABSORBEDQ3 2011 1 0 0Q3 2010 1 0 0% change 0 n/a n/aABSORBEDQ3 2011 87 0 8Q3 2010 97 0 16% change -10.3 n/a -50Year-to-date 2011 173 0 54Year-to-date 2010 258 0 16% change -32.9 n/a **Source: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

NOTES** – Percent change > 200%Absorbed – Housing unit has been sold or rented

FIRST HOME PURCHASECLARENCE COLLISON, BROKER OF RECORD AT REALTY EXECUTIVES, OUTLINES THE STEPS INVOLVED IN HOME OWNERSHIP FOR THE FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER.

Welcome to Canada. You have made a decision

to make this country your new home and now you want to purchase your first home in a new land. What should you know or be concerned about? Here are some tips:

Know how much you can afford. You must consider that once you have pur-chased your new home, it comes with certain expens-es, which include property taxes, utility costs for heat and hydro, homeowner’s insurance and maintenance and repairs. You meet with a mortgage specialist, who will walk you through the steps and requirements of securing a mortgage. The mortgage specialist will also be able to advise you on the many different programs geared directly to immi-grants new to Canada as well as conventional financ-ing procedures. Your lender will explain all the options available to you – such as downpayment require-ments, payment options and schedules, amortiza-tion period, interest rates,

mortgage term and “open or closed” mortgages.

Decide what type of home you wish to live in. You can choose from single-family houses or multi-family homes, which may allow you to make additional income. There are many styles and sizes of homes to select from.

Hire a qualified real-estate agent. Do you require two-bedroom units or more bedrooms? Do you prefer new to older homes? Do you prefer bungalows or two-storey homes? Do you want to live close to work or close to your children’s school? A qualified real-estate agent can show you different homes in different areas within your price range. Once you have found your new home, the agent will walk you carefully through the of-fer process, explaining all the documentation to you as you proceed. Your lender, friends, family or co-workers can prob-ably recommend a real-estate salesperson they trust.

Hire a legal counsel. You should choose your lawyer early in the process so they will

be available to review the con-tracts and answer any ques-tions that you may have before you commit to a firm deal that locks you into a situation you cannot get out of.

Interview home inspec-tors. The home inspector will inspect the property you are proposing to buy and will point out areas of concern. Major defects may discourage you from buying a particular house, but some minor issues can be dealt with through the seller or on your own. After the home inspection you can feel confident that the prop-

erty you are buying will meet your expectations.

Create a team. When you are ready to buy your new home, do your research and build your team of professionals to work on your behalf. You will not be required to pay any of these professionals until the process is complete and they have done their job. Remember, a strong team will help ensure your home-buying experience is a happy and rewarding one. ■

Call Me Today!

Clarence CollisonBroker of Record

#200-311 George St. Peterborough, ON K9J 3H3Office: (705) 749-9229Cell: (705) 768-2953Direct: (705) [email protected]

WHERE THE EXPERTS ARE

www.alisonrealty.com



Karen Wilson

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES CAREER

NEED A JOB? NETWORKKAREN WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE PETERBOROUGH EMPLOYMENT PLANNING & COUNSELLING, SHARES HER THOUGHTS ON THE CURRENT LABOR-MARKET SCENARIO IN PETERBOROUGH.

Describe brief ly what Peterborough Em-ployment Planning & Counselling does.We are a non-profit orga-nization providing em-ployment services in the city and county of Peter-borough for 30 years now. We offer a wide range of programs funded by the Ministry of Training, Col-leges and Universities and

Ministry of Children and Youth Services. Anyone who is seeking employ-ment can access our walk-in resource center, and specialized programs for youth, older workers, students and the general population. Access to certification training and

second-career application is also available.

Over the past 6-12 months, what job cat-egories are in great de-mand in Peterborough? Unfortunately, there have been few trends for spe-cific job areas or industries in demand recently. Cus-tomer service is one area that seems to be consis-

tent, and seasonal, student employment has remained relatively stable as well.

What job categories are showing signs of be-coming high-growth ar-eas in the next 3-5 years?Long-term predictions in a period of global economic

uncertainty are diffi-cult. We could see major changes that may have significant impact on our national, provincial and local labor markets. Tech-nology, innovation and the environmental industries will likely see growth.

The current labor-market scenario in Peterborough seems to indicate a surplus of job candidates compared with available jobs. Can you give us a sense of the level of the current labor surplus?With an unemployment rate currently over 10%, I would say that there is an overall surplus in many common jobs.

How should newcomers, who do not have a Cana-dian work experience, package themselves to increase their chances of employment?In Peterborough, English-language skills are impor-tant. Volunteering can be a great way to gain experi-ence and develop language skills. It is also critical that new Canadians can present and speak of their qualifications in terms that are relative to the Ca-nadian workplace. Being able to provide examples of how they have demon-strated their abilities out-side of Canada and during their volunteer experience can assist local employ-ers in understanding their level of skill. Networking even in unrelated environ-ments – for example, par-ent or school groups or sports – can open doors to opportunity where you least expect it.

Do you have a program in place for newcomers?Unfortunately, there is no

JOB-SEARCH TIPS

▪ A well-written, concise resume and solid interview skills are critical. Most employment-service organizations offer workshops, employ-ment counseling and practice interviews to assist.

▪ Be willing to con-sider initially working outside of local area or in workplaces that you may not have naturally thought of before. ▪ Network, network, network. Let every-one you know be aware of the fact that you are looking for work and what you are qualified for.

CONTACT

Phone: (705) 748-9110Fax: (705) [email protected]

Calling the number above will get someone to a point of meeting with an employment counsellor.

NETWORKING EVEN IN UNRELATED ENVIRONMENTS CAN

OPEN DOORS TO OPPORTUNITY WHERE YOU LEAST EXPECT IT

funding available for employ-ment programs specifically for new Canadians. All of our funded programs how-ever, are open to anyone. As many are individualized, we are able to develop service plans to meet the employ-ment needs of anyone. ■



Brothers and turnaround consultants Myles, left, and Adrian Moore

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FINANCE

MONEY-INDUCED WOES DO ALSO PLAY OUT IN THE IMMIGRATION ARENA. THE BASIC RULE OF THE GAME: BEWARE OF BANKRUPTCY.

A bankruptcy filing actually precludes

immigration sponsorship for a period of time – that is, until the bankruptcy filer has had successfully emerged from it.

Immigration rules require sponsors to be solvent for the full length of the sponsor-ship process. By law, a person with an ongo-ing bankruptcy case is barred from initiating a sponsorship – the logic being that sponsors are responsible for provid-ing the basic necessities of the people whom they wish to bring to Canada through a spon-sorship program.

“Debt is a huge problem

TILL DEBT DO US PART

right now,” said Adrian Moore, a turnaround con-sultant at 4 Pillars Consult-ing Group. “The problem is, I think, most of us do not realize it is a problem until it is too late.”

During the second quarter of 2011, con-sumer bankruptcies in Ontario were a total of 6,839, up 9.8% from the previous-quarter tally of 6,228, according to figures from the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada. Over a 12-month period ending June 30, 2011, the number of bankruptcies eased at 28,753, down 28.8% from the year-ago total of 40,384.

Consumer proposals

were nearly as many as bankruptcies, with 6,481 filed in the second quar-ter of 2011 and 6,495 in the first quarter. Busi-ness bankruptcies are significantly fewer.

CREDIT CARDSAlthough some people who landed in bank-ruptcy have had major reversals happened to them – such as a pro-longed illness, serious injury, job loss, separa-tion, divorce, business slowdown – that dras-tically decreased their income, a lot of pre-

bankruptcy troubles are often associated with heavy credit-card spend-ing or misspending.

“People make a lot of mistakes with their credit cards. There is nothing wrong with a credit card. I have credit cards too. But how is a credit card designed to be used? A credit card is designed to basically lend you money for one month – that’s it. Your credit card is your best friend in your wallet for only one month,” Mr. Moore said.

SAVE AND SPEND“I realize it is not always possible, but we should stay away from credit as much as we can. When you want something, you save up and pay for it rather than apply for a loan and get nailed with interests down the line. The problem is we are in such a buy-it-now, pay-for-it-later society.

Nobody saves up for a car anymore, not even for that pair of shoes in the mall.

“Credit cards have their place. There’s noth-ing wrong with using a credit card to buy gas. There’s something wrong, however, with buying a 2,000-dollar plasma TV using your credit card and not knowing how to pay for the plasma TV.”

Mr. Moore recommends starting a bookkeeping exercise for people bat-

tling with runaway debts. The exercise, he said, can check on budget-killer spending. “You would be surprised to know the killers are not the spend-ing on gasoline, mort-gage or rent, or hydro bills but the small spend-ing – the coffee, the lunch out,” he said.

He also advises keeping only one credit card with a manageable credit limit. “Do you really need a $10,000 credit limit? You use it, and it’s so easy to get into the trap,” Mr. Moore said.

“A credit card is like a fire. Fire is a great tool; it’s useful as long as you are watching it and keep-ing it under control. But as soon as you take your eyes off of it and take it for granted, it has the potential to make your life miserable. And it’s true with fire as well as with credit cards.” ■

NOBODY SAVES UP FOR A CAR ANYMORE, NOT EVEN FOR THAT

PAIR OF SHOES IN THE MALL



Students gather for a TIP camp information session

An early-morning quiet moment at the waterfront Group photo of TIP September 2011 students with staff and families.

Recreational basketball at TIP camp

CLICK

TIP CAMPOn September 2-5, 2011,

Trent University held an orientation session for its new international students at Camp Timberlane in Haliburton, Ontario. Before classes begin, the Trent International Program office coordinates an orientation session for new international stu-dents. The session serves as an essential part of the preparation for study and life at Trent and an opportunity for students from all around the world to meet.



CLICK

Jason Stabler and Maryam Monsef From left: Deputy Warden Barry Rand, Inspector Ted Boynton, Deputy Police Chief Steve Streeter and Councilor Keith Riel

Canada World Youth volunteers

An opera performance Christmas carols from Romania

Timmy performs Filipino songs

Irish musicians

Audience on its feet to an Irish beat The buffet spread

New Canadians Centre Board Member Chanda Kaziya, middle, with volunteersPeterborough City Mayor Daryl Bennett addresses the conference participants Question-and-answer session after the keynote address

PPCII CONFERENCE

WINTER POTLUCK

On November 17, 2011, the Peterbor-

ough Partnership Council on Immigrant Integration held its second “Together We Prosper” conference at the Holiday Inn. The conference discussed issues related to immigrant inte-gration and diversity. More than 100 people attended the conference.

On December 1, 2011, the New Canadians

Centre held its annual Win-ter Potluck. At least 170 people attended the event, held at the Market Hall. Cli-ents, staff, volunteers, agen-cy members and partners and community members shared a sumptous potluck buffet that preceded the evening performances. The food was as diverse as the performances.



CLICK

Bharat Maini, Tony Tilly, Raghu Yasam, Jigar Shah and Shehal Warne

Jim Drennan and Geoff Matthews

Wayne Bonner and Debbie Harrison

International students with Mayor Bennett and Tony TillyLiliana Perez, Faye Tan, Mayor Bennett, Tony Tilly, Lloyd Clive and Derek Armstrong

Unveiling of magazine cover Councilor Dean Pappas speaks on behalf of City Hall

Becky Rogers, manager of Arts, Culture and Heri-tage Division at City Hall

Beverly Lomosad, Dindin Villarino and Carmela and Ramon Valles

Stuart Harrison, general manager of Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME RECEPTION

NEWCOMER BULLETIN LAUNCH

On October 6, 2011, Fleming College held

a welcome reception for its new batch of international students. Mayor Daryl Ben-nett welcomed the students on behalf of the city of Peterborough. So did the president of the college, Tony Tilly. Nearly 40 stu-dents attended, along with 19 teachers and administrators.

On September 29, 2011, Mediaplus Village

launched the Newcomer Bul-letin magazine at the Chamber Business Center. Govern-ment and business represen-tatives attended the event. The magazine reinforces efforts of the city of Peter-borough, along with non-government organizations, to create a supportive and open-door environment for newcomers.



IN THEIR OWN WORDS

WORD OF MOUTH

Budbod is also known as suman in other parts of the Philippines. Tradition has it that early Filipino farmers cook budbod as part of their harvest feast. Suman pre-dates the arrival of the Spanish and American colonizers of the Philippines.

Xia Wang is a first-year economics student at Trent University

NEW YEAR SPECIAL

TASTE THE WORLDIn many parts of the world, food plays a key role as people usher in the arrival of a new year. We look at the way the world celebrates New Year and highlight events that some people associate with moving forward into a fresh start.

Scaring the beast away The Chinese New Year, known as “Spring Festival,” begins on the first day of the first month in the traditional Chinese calendar and ends on the 15th day. Chinese New Year’s Eve is a time when families gather for food and fun. Rail stations are packed, mostly with migrant workers heading back home to countryside. That in itself makes a scene.

Chinese people put up Spring Festival couplets – calligraphy of black ink on red paper – expressing good wishes for wealth, fortune and longev-ity. Decorations are usually in red. Most Chinese believe in red as being associated

with anything good or joyful. Fireworks display continues throughout the festival.

A popular myth gives account to a beast that wreaks havoc on people’s houses and crops. Farmers drive the beast away with red lanterns and signs and firecrackers – the beast being thought to have a fear for anything red and noise.

After the big dinner, we greet our parents and wish them a healthy and happy new year, and we receive money in red envelopes. The tradition re-flects the moral philosophy of the Chinese: relationships are vital in a harmonious society.

6 cups glutinous rice1 cup sugar2 (40 ml) cups coconut milk 2 packs of banana leaves for wrappingJuice from 1 ½ cups grated fresh ginger1 teaspoon salt

Glutinous Rice Wrapped in Banana Leaves

INGREDIENTS

BUDBOD

1. Thaw frozen banana leaves. 2. Soak rice in water for at least one hour. Drain and transfer to a non-stick saucepan.3. In a glass bowl mix coconut milk, sugar, salt and juice of 1.5 cups of grated ginger. Taste and add sugar if desired. Add the whole mixture into the rice.4. Cook on medium heat stirring constantly. When rice has absorbed most of the liquid turn off heat. 5. Cut banana leaves into five inches strips. Wipe banana leaves and brush with a little bit of olive oil. 6. Spoon rice mixture onto spread banana leaves and shape into long rectangles. Tuck ends and tie in pairs. 7. Line large pot with left-over banana leaves. Place wrapped rice in the pot, add two cups of water and steam for at least 45 minutes. 8. Serve with ripe mangoes and hot chocolate.

GET COOKING

Interviews by CHEN RAO



Munkhsuvd Gansukh, 18, is from Mongolia

Kaori Sogame is a kinesiology student at the University of Western Ontario in London

NEW YEAR SPECIAL

Odd luck on New YearTsagaan Sar, or New Year festival, is one of the biggest national holidays in Mongolia. On New Year’s Eve, we set the table with traditional food – sheep’s back, buuz and kheviin boov. Buuz is a traditional Mongolian dish stuffed with meat and wrapped with dough. Kheviin Boov is a kind of bun. We arrange the buns in layers on one big plate. The number of layers should be odd. We believe that even number will bring bad luck. We usually drink airag, made of fermented mare’s milk, wine and tea.

We observe some interesting customs. We practice Zolgokh, which is a traditional greeting reserved only for New Year. On the first day of Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolian president would address the nation on TV.

After that, about 10am, people start to do the Zolgokh – elder people sit, offering a khadag (blue silk scarf) with out-stretched hands and upturned palms and say, “May you be healthy and happy.” Then we eat a bit and drink a little. The Zolgokh lasts for 3-5 days.

Your place, your zouniThe Japanese celebrate New Year with special dishes. One of the main dishes that represents Japanese New Year is called zouni, a rice-cake soup.

Zouni has many varieties, which reflect the characteristics of the different regions in Japan. People from western Japan use miso – fragmented soy bean – as soup base. In Hiroshima, oyster is a core ingredient of zouni to denote its fame for oyster. In Hokkaido, which is surrounded by the sea, people add seafood to their zouni.

The shape of rice cakes, called mochi, also varies. Generally speaking, square rice cakes are used in eastern Japan, while round or oval ones are used in western Japan.

Zouni in Kagawa is a soup of round rice cake in miso broth. The rice cake has a sweet red bean paste, called anko, in it. The practice of using rice cake with anko dates back to a time when sugar was a luxury to ordinary people. The poor simmered red beans with sugar and put the paste in the rice cake for zouni. Then they get to enjoy the luxury, just like the wealthy, at least once a year.



NEW YEAR SPECIAL

Eggs

Sugar

Milk

INSPIRATION.INSIGHT.

Suite 7, Chamber Business Centre175 George Street NorthPeterborough, ON K9J 3G6Phone: (705) 772-7172Fax: (705) 743-2331E-mail: [email protected]

YES, SEND MY FREE COPY4 EASY WAYS TO START YOUR FREE SUBSCRIPTION

• GO ONLINEwww.newcomerbulletin.com

• CALL(705) 772-7172

• FAX(705) 743-2331

• MAILSuite 7, Chamber Business Centre175 George Street North, Peterborough, ON K9J 3G6

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY/PROVINCE/ZIP

INFORMATION.

newcomer

BULLETIN

LECHE FLAN

GET COOKING

INGREDIENTS

1 can (390g) evaporated milk 1 can (390g) condensed milk 10 egg yolks 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon essence

For the caramel: 1 cup sugar 3/4 cup water

1. Mix sugar and water. Bring to a boil until the sugar caramelizes.2. Pour the caramelized sugar into molds.3. Mix well the evaporated milk, condensed milk, egg yolks and vanilla.4. Pour the mixture on top of the caramel on the molds. Fill the molds to about 1 to 1 1/4 inch thick.5. Cover molds with aluminum foil.6. Steam or bake for about 45 minutes. Before baking, place molds on a larger baking pan half filled with very hot water. Pre-heat oven to about 370 degrees.7. Let it cool then refrigerate.

www.shopnofrills.ca

Dieter & Darcy’s nofrills. 230 George St. N.

Peterborough (705) 742-5167

Ken’s nofrills. 1866 Lansdowne St. W.

Peterborough(705) 742-1934

If you find a cheaper price,simply show us and we will match.*

in our store simply show us an advertisement or receipt andwe will sell you that item at the same price. We will match

competitor’s advertisement or within 7 days of the date of

size and attributes) and for produce, meat and bakery items,we reserve the right to determine a comparable item. ‘Our major competitors’ and ‘geographical trade areas’ aredetermined solely by us and are based on a number of factors which can change from time to time. Excludes ‘multi-buys’(eg. 2 for $4); ‘spend x get x’; ‘Free’; and discounts obtained through loyalty programs.



MARKETPLACE

INSPIRATION.INSIGHT.

Suite 7, Chamber Business Centre175 George Street NorthPeterborough, ON K9J 3G6Phone: (705) 772-7172Fax: (705) 743-2331E-mail: [email protected]

YES, SEND MY FREE COPY4 EASY WAYS TO START YOUR FREE SUBSCRIPTION

• GO ONLINEwww.newcomerbulletin.com

• CALL(705) 772-7172

• FAX(705) 743-2331

• MAILSuite 7, Chamber Business Centre175 George Street North, Peterborough, ON K9J 3G6

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY/PROVINCE/ZIP

INFORMATION.

newcomer

BULLETIN

ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE ESTIMATES

TURCO TILE LIMITEDTILE – MARBLE – CARPETS

RESILIENT FLOORINGPHONE (705) 745-6611 • FAX (705) 745-6333

250 CHARLOTTE ST.PETERBOROUGH, ONTK9J 2V1 ILIO TURCO

NMT Foot Reflexology

Cell: (705) 313-1542 Home: (705) 874-1302 [email protected]

Member (09-021)Ontario College of Reflexology

Nieva Mari Tumbiga



CANOE JOURNEY THROUGH WATERWAYS AND LIFEWAYS

So much of the history of Canada is the history of

the newcomer; because few written records exist of the indigenous peoples before the Europeans arrived, impressions of many Ca-nadians of their nation are almost always seen through the eyes of people expe-riencing each other’s culture for the first time.

Nowhere is that more clear than at the Canadian Canoe Museum, which chronicles the individual struggles and triumphs of people making their way through the land with little in common besides their mode of transport – the canoe.

In comparison with the well-documented and cel-ebrated histories of many nations, where rulers and armies race triumphantly across the imagination, Canadians often won-der about their history: where is our Taj Mahal, our Great Wall, our thousand-year tradition of literature? Which is why

visitors to the Canadian Canoe Museum often find themselves surprised and overcome with pride when they view the exhibits, and realize that the Canadian history is as fascinating and filled with thrilling stories as any.

For new Canadians, there is a sense of shared ex-perience – those early ex-plorers and fur traders left their families and culture to try and find success and good fortune in a new world, one full of uncer-tainty and new experien-ces. There is the welcome and guidance which the indigenous peoples of North America offered to these newcomers, without whose assistance many early settlers would cer-tainly have failed. There is the sense of adventure, of learning new languages, customs and lands. It is a familiar story to people who have made the coura-geous choice to start a new life in Canada, and a central part of the story of this country.

Far from being merely a building filled with artifacts, the museum is a house of stories; wal-king through the exhibits, both new Canadians and long-time residents feel a sense of connection to the people who built this

country, to their hopes and dreams and vision of the future.

Visitors to the museum will gain a new under-standing of Canadian culture and values, and how those came to be. Though the canoe is a simple vessel, it has shaped cultural identity.

A recent visitor to the museum from India wrote

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

BY CANDACE SHAW

in its guest book, “Your attempt to preserve the past only intensifies our desire to make Canada our home.” The com-ment touched the heart of many museum staff members and volunteers, and reaffirmed their goal

to connect Canadians and those who love Canada to their heritage.

The Canadian Canoe Mu-seum allows people to see as it really is – something to celebrate, to appreci-ate, and to take pride in.

The Canadian Canoe Mu-seum is open seven days a week. Admission is free with the Peterborough Welcome Pass. ■

VISITORS TO THE MUSEUM WILL GAIN A NEW UNDERSTANDING

OF CANADIAN CULTURE AND VALUES, AND HOW THOSE CAME TO BE.

Workshop participants carve their own paddles. Photo by Beth Stanley

Families take a ride in the Peterborough Lift Lock as part of the Na-tional Canoe Day celebrations. Photo by Candace Shaw



Families take a ride in the Peterborough Lift Lock as part of the Na-tional Canoe Day celebrations. Photo by Candace Shaw

Ont

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io Graphic Solutions



Training tomorrow’s welders

Carmela and Ramon Valles, Jon Bennett, Edward Dampor Sr. and Olga Palatics

WELDERS IN HOT DEMANDThe welding industry

in Canada is at a crossroads. As fewer young welders step in to take the place of baby-boom welders, who are now preparing to head for the exit into retirement, a severe skilled-worker shortfall in the already-shorthanded welding industry is likely to take its turn for the worse.

The worker deficit comes against a backdrop of an oil industry gathering steam and of multi-billion contracts awarded by the Department of National Defence in October 2011 to build a fleet of com-

ADVERTORIAL

bat and civilian ships. Throughout the life of the 30-year shipbuilding contracts, thousands of tradespeople, including welders, will be needed.

The growing shortage of welders in Canada requires drastic measures before more and more important large-scale projects run into major setbacks.Enter the Canadian Weld-ing Skills (CWS), a private welder-training center in Ennismore, Ontario.

A welder for nearly four decades, CWS owner Jon Bennett is in the forefront of an effort to establish a Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB)-certified welder-training facility in the Philip-pines that would qualify welders from overseas for jobs in Canada.

CWS has partnered with Cebu City-based Brilliant Metal Craft and Machine Design to establish the facility. Ultimately, graduates from the training facility,

who have obtained their CWB welding tickets and signified intention to come to Canada, will receive assis-tance through the immigra-tion-application process by the Carmela Valles Immi-gration Consulting (CVIC).

An informal labor-market survey conducted separately by both CWS and CVIC before the tri-level partner-ship showed a significant shortage of welders in Central East Ontario. The rest of the country follows the same trend.

MAIN HURDLEAlthough the federal govern-ment has listed welders and related machine operators as priority occupations for im-migration to Canada, appli-cations from foreign-trained welders came in trickles.

For the 2010-2011 intake cycle ending June 30, 2011, Citizenship and Immigra-tion Canada received only 82 applications, way too short of the approved 1,000 annual cap. In the current intake cycle ending June 30, 2012, applications received, as of November 17, 2011, were only a total of 20 against the revised annual cap of 500. In contrast, two job categories have already filled their quota while oth-ers are well on the way to-ward reaching their ceiling.

A major stumbling block

hindering the immigration application of overseas welders is the lack of a Canadian certification or ticket, something which employers recognize as proof of competence. In fact, the process of bring-ing foreign-trained weld-ers into Canada is quite like the chicken-and-egg dilemma: Foreign-trained welders will have difficulty entering Canada for work without a CWB certifica-tion; yet, they need to come to Canada to obtain CWB certification.

Coming to Canada to get certified is virtually impos-sible – except for applicants from countries that do not require entry visas to travel to Canada.

That hurdle is understood to have been crossed through a CWB-accredited welder-training facility that provides certification ser-vices for overseas welders.

Since the early 1970s, there has been a serious reduction in trades training for young people at the high school and college levels, Mr. Ben-nett said.

According to the Canadian Welding Association, the average age of a welder in today’s work force is about 55. Imagine what the land-scape will be like in only a few years down the road. ■

Jon Bennett at work

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES• WELDER TRAININGCourses are as unique and varied as our wide client base. Profes-sional instruction by certified instructors is available in all process-es, all alloys and in all positions. Training sessions can be arranged to suit your time schedules.

• WELDING INSTRUCTION ENVIRONMENTSOur welder training methods have a wide spread reputation for being the most efficient from many points of view. Small class sizes, usually only 5 per instructor, result in maximum instructor time for each student.

• WELDER CERTIFICATIONMany forms of certification services are available.

CANADIANWELDINGSKILLS

Shop Address576 Robinson RoadEnnismore, Ontario

Mailing Address1010 Ward StreetBridgenorth, Ontario K0L 1H0

Phone: Phone: (705) 292-0494 Fax: (705) [email protected]

We are a privately owned and operated welder training center. Instruction is available for entry-level as well as experienced welders who wish to up-grade their skills.











Sch�l of Busine�, Trades and TechnologyOur school is built on experiential learning, from industry-sponsored applied projects, work placements and co-op, to international exchange programs. This means our students graduate with the practical, real-world experience employers are looking for.

Designed to develop your competitive EDGE and help you stand out in today’s tight job market, all our programs incorporate Environmental Responsibility, Diversity, Global Perspectives and Experience.

STARTING IN JANUARY: � Many full-time Business, Hospitality, Culinary and Skilled Trades programs

� New, one year (37-week) post-graduate certificate in International Business Management.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CERTIFICATES � Small Business Accounting

� Human Resources Management

� Office Administration (online only)

� Writing for Professionals is an excellent online certificate to develop writing skills. These courses can also be taken individually and include courses such as Writing Grammatically, Technical Communications, Business Report Writing and Writing Sales Material.

� Communications 1 focuses on developing and practising the fundamentals of Standard English,

including grammar and sentence structure. Fleming also offers a number of fun, outdoor courses where newcomers can meet new friends and practice their spoken English.

cla�.work.Bringing the real world to the cla�r�m

Visit our website for detailed information on all our programs:

Flemingcoege.ca


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