Goan Initiatives on the Go
Goan initiatives seem to be out in force this summer!

The July 1st long weekend brought a number of “movers & shakers” to host Goa Sudharop’s George Pinto on a visit to TO. At the gathering, which took place at a popular watering hole in Mississauga, various initiatives were aired including the work done by the International Goan Organization, and the possibility of holding a sequel to the 1988 International Goan Convention.

The Goan Overseas Association will be conducting a Vision Workshop this Sunday to find out what the community really needs and plan accordingly. Heading this project is Michelle Pereira; email mpereira@goatoronto.com  See Announcements Section in www.goanvoice.ca 

Pulling out the stops to get premises for the long awaited “place of our own” is the CGC. This investor-based group will be reviewing lease/buy prospects for “ready-made” banquet hall type facilities with ample parking, and easy access to main highways (Dixie-401/403/407). Expressions of Interest requests can be sent by email to valens.almeida@sympatico.ca

Not waiting for “pie-in-the-sky” are the two seniors groups TEGSA (east) & 55PGA (west). Their social calendars this summer are full with events, trips, picnics, etc. Their telemail groups use email and the phone to reach Goan Seniors – a tiring but yet rewarding task they say.

See Events Section of Goan Voice Canada for more information.

University study shows that visible minorities experience lower levels of career satisfaction than their white colleagues
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/June2007/28/c9820.html?view=print 

TORONTO, June 28 /CNW/ - Findings from the largest national survey ever conducted about career satisfaction and advancement of visible minorities in corporate Canada show that while visible minorities experience lower levels of career satisfaction than their white/Caucasian colleagues, the opportunity for more inclusive work environments and advancement of visible minority professionals is within the reach of corporate Canada. Given existing links between career satisfaction and productivity, the results are particularly significant, as Canadian businesses cannot afford to under utilize any segment of the talent in today's globally competitive marketplace.

Career Advancement in Corporate Canada: A Focus on Visible Minorities was undertaken by Catalyst Canada and the Diversity Institute in Management and Technology at Ryerson University and is based on the responses of 17,908 seasoned managers, professionals, and executives from across Canada. With an average tenure of 20 years in the Canadian labour force, responses came from employees at 43 large publicly traded and privately held companies and professional service firms, as well as representatives from 38 Canadian
organizations.

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“Shall We Dance……cha, cha, cha”
Friday, June 8, 2007
 

TEGSA introduces us to some innovative and creative events. The first event in June was patronized by more than 100members who came to “Learn to Dance”. Who would have thought that almost half a century after we first learned to dance we would find out that all our nifty moves were not really ballroom dancing.

Our dance instructor was Steve Lewis who was at first overwhelmed with so many eager learners who had filled the dance floor. Steve and his partner glided across the floor as they demonstrated the finer arts of doing the Waltz, Cha Cha Cha, Fox Trot, Quick Step and Jive in correct ballroom style. Those of us with two left feet found it hard to cope with the 2 steps forward, 2 steps back and slide or the quick, slow, quick quick slow routines or the one, two, three, one two three Waltz steps.

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55+Goan Associaton West GTA

While we were waltzing .........out the "Winter Blues".......on June 9th, 2007,........... our 55Plus Goan Association, Executive committee, celebrated our 2nd Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance at the Renaissance Convention Centre , in Mississauga, with an overwhelming attendance of altogether,a capacity of 241 members and out of town guests , who came out in support, as far as London, Ontario. It was heart-warming indeed, to have them in our midst! - No doubt, this auspicious occasion was a resounding success!

After the delicious Hors-douvres were served, our Social Secretary, Juliet Rebello welcomed each and everyone for their participation and attendance and went on to thank Mrs. Shirley D'Souza for her assistance in our search for the newly found premises i.e. 'Mississauga Seniors Centre", located at l389 Cawthra Road in Mississauga. (This new venue is posted on our website at www.goanvoice.ca  - check for further details).

Our President, Tony Fernandes, took his place at the Podium and punctuated his opening speech with some "wisecracks" to enlighten the crowd! He then introduced our Executive Committee with a request to come up to the podium for a photoshoot keepsake! . He, of course, went on to thank the Executive and sub -committee members and spouses for their hard work and dedication in making this event possible!
Vice-President, Paul Nazareth presented Mr.Roque Barretto with a $200 cheque for the "Walk-a-Thon event, hosted by the Goan Charitable Organization.

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Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean/Speech on the Occasion of the Canada Day Celebration.
 Ottawa, Sunday, July 1, 2007

OTTAWA, ONTARIO- I am delighted to once again be standing before you as we celebrate Canada Day. But why do we come together every year on this day? What are we really celebrating on July 1st? First, we are celebrating the bonds of solidarity and friendship that helped create this country. Those bonds are embedded in our hearts. Because here in Canada, we help people when they are suffering. In Canada, our differences enrich us as a people. In Canada, what is good for one person is good for everyone. And these bonds of solidarity and friendship grow stronger every day because we live in an ideal of justice and freedom that is the envy of the entire world.

I was born in a country that was under a merciless dictatorship, so like many Canadians who have come here from abroad, I know how precious that freedom really is. We cannot overstate how lucky we are to be able to think, speak, choose, act, and live in complete freedom; not when barbarism and misery affect so many countries and people around the world. On this July 1st, let us reflect on the message of hope that we, as Canadians, bring to the world. Let us also remember the commitment of our soldiers and the difficult missions they are leading in Afghanistan and elsewhere. Let us remember their families and loved ones.

I would like to tell you about a strong conviction that I developed at a very young age, when my family and I had to start our lives all over again, away from the terror. I have based my very existence on this conviction. It guides all my decisions, all my choices, and I would like to share it with you for the remainder of my mandate as governor general of Canada. I am one of those people who believe that anything is possible in this world. And here in Canada, we have the greatest opportunities to reach our full potential and achieve our loftiest dreams.

This year we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Order of Canada. The women and men who have received our country's highest honour were never hesitant to test the limits, both their own and those of the world around them. They achieved remarkable things because they believed in their ability to reinvent life, help society move forward, and change the course of history. They represent the very best of us.

I would like to take the opportunity, on this Canada Day, to issue a challenge to all the young people here and everywhere across the country. You have the ability to look at the world with fresh eyes. Do not set yourselves any limits. Dream big. Be daring. Act.

On this July 1st, let us celebrate all these dreams, all these everyday actions, all these projects and all these achievements. Let us strengthen the bonds of solidarity that make Canada the generous country we love.

I love you! Happy birthday, Canada!
For more information, please contact
Rideau Hall Press Office
www.gg.ca
www.citizenvoices.gg.ca

'GOAN SCHOOL MOMBASA'
(PRESENTLY SACRED HEART SCHOOL MOMBASA)
MARKS 75TH ANNIVERSARYSCHOOL foundation on August 14th 1932

From Coastweek – http://www.coastweek.com/3026-20.htm

On August 14th 2007, the Sacred Heart School Mombasa (formerly the Goan School Mombasa) will mark its 75th anniversary since its foundation on August 14th 1932. This was one of the first schools to be established in Kenya and founded by the Goan Community Mombasa. It is therefore appropriate that the Goan Community, Mombasa, recognizes this milestone in its legacy of it's founding contribution to education and development in Mombasa.

A spokesman for the Mombasa Goan community observed:

"Memories of the days at Goan School stir lots of nostalgia about the vision, sacrifice, success and friendship in several persons of different faiths and cultures over a number of generations all over the world

"They say 'never forget where you came from', and so to commemorate this occasion the Goan Community Mombasa is organising a reunion of all ex-students teachers and friends of The Goan School - Sacred Heart School.

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EXHIBITION - ARTIST GYNELLE ALVES
Date: Tuesday, June 26 To: Tuesday, July 10
Zenzi 183, Waterfield Road
Bandra (w)

Zenzi presents an exhibition by Gynelle Alves from 21st June-10th July 2007
 

She is unable to pinpoint her 'inspiration' - sometimes it may have been emotion - sometimes it may have been too much wine. Deceptively simple at first, each painting reveals depth - of feeling, of experience. Whether it's the cheeky irreverence of 'Tabloid' or the comfortable aloofness of the backseat driver/ dream for the insomniac - or the raw exhaustion and pain of December.. angel wings worn - a history of faces leering at its fatigue... Gynelle says she didn't plan on the faces - they just arrived.

Excerpts from interview with Express India
For lovers of pop culture, there's a new kid in town. Mumbai girl Gynelle Alves, who studied art in Muscat, is holding a solo of doodles, sketches and illustrations in pen and ink, pencil and watercolour. The 29-year-old isn't new to the art scene, but the exhibition, on till July 6 at Zenzi, Bandra, is her first.

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Date

Event

Details

Summer Picnic in the Park
TEGSA meets West (55PGA) Picnic.
Erindale Park., at Dundas and Mississauga Road.

Click for Flyer

Shrimp Curry Nite
Live Entertainment
MUSIC – SONG – DANCE
Cost: $10.00 (Members)
$12.00 (Guests)
Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.
Dancing starts at 7:30 p.m.
To register, please call:
Vicki D’Souza: (416) 497-5111
Charles Fernandes: (416) 286-8970
Joan Menezes: (416) 927-0895
Gerry DaSilva: (416) 297-7218

Your association is undertaking a special project of collecting used Eye Glasses which will in turn be sent to the third world countries, through the Lions Club. Please bring your “discards” to this event.
Leo Braganza will co-ordinate this project

Games Nite
Bridge – Scrabble – Rummy – Carrom
Co-ordinators to form organized groups for various games required.
Cost: $6.00 (Members)
$8.00 (Guests)
A Snack plate will be served
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
To register, please call:
Vicki D’Souza: (416) 497-5111
Charles Fernandes: (416) 286-8970
Joan Menezes: (416) 927-0895
Gerry DaSilva: (416) 297-7218

LADAINHA
Commander Park Hall

Click for Flyer

TEGSA INVITES YOU TO
ATLANTIC CITY 3DAYS/2NIGHTS
 

Click for Flyer

Surprise Performance
To be announced

Mass for the Deceased Members and their Families.

on November 2nd, 2007 - 6:30 pm sharp at
Commander Park Hall, Scarborough

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Click for Flyer

Whist Drive
A Snack plate will be served
Cost: $6.00 (Members)
$8.00 (Guests)
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

To register, please call:
Vicki D’Souza: (416) 497-5111
Charles Fernandes: (416) 286-8970
Joan Menezes: (416) 927-0895
Gerry DaSilva: (416) 297-7218

Yuletide Festivities – Choral Group in Attendance
Live Music – X’mas Bazaar
Authentic Goan Food and Sweets
Cost: $10.00 (Members)
$12.00 (Guests)
Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.

Your Executive invites you to do yet another good deed for the less fortunate. Please donate at least one food can of your choice, which will collectively be donated to the FOOD BANK, during the festive season.

Christmas Dance
St. Clement of Ohrid Banquet Hall
76 Overlea Boulevard
Cost: $40.00 (Members)
$45.00 (Guests)
Cocktails and Appertizers at 6:30 p.m.
Sit-down dinner at 7:30 p.m.

To register, please call:
Vicki D’Souza: (416) 497-5111
Charles Fernandes: (416) 286-8970
Joan Menezes: (416) 927-0895
Gerry DaSilva: (416) 297-7218

I Wish The G.O.A Would...

I wish the G.O.A. would organize a kid's 'play day' for families
I wish the G.O.A. would organize a mix and mingle in dowtown T.O.
I wish I knew more about the Goan heritage that I could pass along to my children
I wish I knew where other Goan seniors were living
What do you wish for?
Tell us at the G.O.A. Vision Workshop on Sunday July 8th (1-5pm)
R.S.V.P. today to Michelle Pereira at mpereira@goatoronto.com 
Valhalla Inn, 1 Valhalla Road (Burnamthorpe and Hwy 427) -
Refreshments will be served
Click here for complete on-line G.O.A. Vision Survey

Goan Soccer League - Inter Village Tournament

The under 20 FIFA Tournament is in full swing in Canada.
See http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/62

Those tired of watching TV can get a breath of fresh air watch Goan lads  tough it out for real at the 2007 Intervillage Games ( see http://www.goansoccer.com/intervillage/)

The games are played every Sunday from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. There are 5 games per day. The games are being played at TCI (Thistletown Collegiate Institute). North of the 401 on Islington Ave. After passing Elmhurst Ave, turn left on Fordwich Rd. and the school is on your right. The ground is behind the school. Many older people make an outing of it and enjoy the games.

Do Not Call List Rules to Protect Consumers
http://newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/July2007/03/c3520.html?view=print

OTTAWA, July 3 /CNW/ - Canada's national Do Not Call Registry inched closer to reality today as the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced the Do Not Call List ground rules.

Today's CRTC's decision was welcomed by consumer groups as it provides consumers with a reasonable outline of what to expect from Canada's Do Not Call list and allows the search for the operator of the list to go ahead. The list operator will register names on the list and collect fees from the telemarketing industry to pay for it. Consumers will not be charged to place their names on the Do Not Call list.

John Lawford, Counsel with the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC), stated, "Consumers have been waiting for this list for too long already but these rules are a reasonable compromise between consumers' right to be left alone and businesses' desires to sell services over the telephone. Hopefully we can get a list operator and get this going."

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Speeding And Alcohol Contribute To Weekend Traffic Fatalities

ORILLIA, ON, July 3 /CNW/ - Of the six people who died on roads patrolled by the Ontario Provincial Police over the Canada Day Weekend, four, including one motorcyclist, were related to speeding; one person wasn't wearing a seatbelt and three were alcohol related. Over the same weekend last year, there were seven deaths on OPP-patrolled roads.

In addition, officers stopped three separate incidents of street racing, two on Highway 400 yesterday and four motorcycles that were travelling up to 200 kilometres per hour on the Queen Elizabeth Way in the Toronto area Friday. There have been 225 traffic deaths so far in 2007, up from 186 at the same time last year despite the fact the OPP has issued 21,986 more speeding tickets this year than in 2006.

"Drivers still don't seem to be getting the message," OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino said. "It's disconcerting and frustrating to see that some irresponsible individuals continue to ignore the rules of the road and put themselves and other motorists at risk.

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