applications for the fpcbp’s 2007 scholarship awards are ...ber of carabram, the zonta...

FPCBP Newsletter - June 2007 1

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FPCBPMission Statement

To promote business activity, foster professionalism, develop network-ing opportunities, enhance political visibility, encourage academic excel-lence and, as the representative voice, advocate the prominence of our mem-bers within and outside the Portuguese Canadian Business and Professional community.

The 2007 Board of Directors have quickly geared up to what promises to be another good year with a slew of events in the making. This year’s board is comprised of a number of members from very diverse professional backgrounds. Join me in wel-coming a number of new faces this year; Lu Amaral, Josie Caldas, Jude Fernandes, Fernando Martins, Cristina Marques and Sergio Ruivo. I’m also very grateful for the directors whom have opted to stay with us; Francine Antonio, Avelino Fonseca, Eunice Machado, Teresa Melo and Paul Silva. This group has already displayed a commitment to continuing the great work carved out by the past 25 years of com-munity involvement.

In the following pages we share the successes of the already transpired events, including: the Member-Get-A-Member event on May 28, 2007 and the Portuguese History and Heritage Essay Contest Awards Ceremony on June 21, 2007. At the time of this publication, the Annual Golf Tournament was in full swing, and we have faith that it will once again be a crowd pleaser. A full recap will be includ-ed in our next newsletter.

Be sure to visit our website for a number of upcoming events scheduled for the re-mainder of 2007 such as: Call to Election Seminar in September, Construction and a Professionals Seminar in October, the Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner in

November and in December a festive get together. Full details will soon be posted.

With change being a constant in our world, it is with mixed emotions that we say good bye to Michael Sebastião, Executive Co-ordinator for the FPCBP. Michael has decided to return to school this fall. On behalf of the board – present and past – and all the members, I would like to take this opportunity to wish Michael the very best and to thank him for a job well done, he will be greatly missed.

As one door closes another opens, and we welcome Jennifer Abadesso to the post of Executive Co-ordinator, Jennifer comes very highly recommended and has already proven herself to be an asset to our orga-nization.

As we press on, we need the full sup-port of our membership and our very gen-erous sponsors to ensure the continued

success of all FPCBP events. Participation is the key ingredient.

I would like to thank the 2006 Board of Directors for the fi ne job carried through their term, this enabled this year’s board to effortlessly and effectively takeover the torch.

Lena Barreto,President

Message from the President

The FPCBP is once again recognizing the out-standing academic achievement of our youth. Scholarhips ranging from $1,500 to $2,500, cour-tesy of our many sponsors, will be awarded at the 26th Annual Scholarship Dinner on November 8, 2007. For more information, and to download an application form, visit our website at www.fpcbp.com or call the offi ce at 416-537-8874.

Applications for the FPCBP’s 2007 Scholarship Awards are now being accepted

2 FPCBP Newsletter - June 2007

Lena Barreto, PresidentA Branch Manager with RBC Royal

Bank, Lena has been working in the fi-nancial sector for more than 22 years where she started as a Customer Service Representative. In her leisure time, Lena dedicates herself to various civic initiatives, including Habitat for Humanity, fundrais-ing for the Hospital for Sick Children, Cancer Research, Junior Achievement and a few different Portuguese organizations. In 2000, Lena received a Mississauga Local Heroes Award and in 2004 she re-ceived a Volunteer Award from the City of Mississauga.

Avelino Fonseca, Vice-President Avelino started his own business,

Carlane Masonry, in 1983. Together with another partner, he also owns Trican Masonry – a company that handles the ma-sonry for several well-known builders and employs more than 400 workers. Avelino also builds houses, with a notable project in Toronto completed and new projects on the horizon.

Francine Antonio, Secretary Francine Antonio is a Communications

Advisor with the City of Toronto. A Director since 2005, she was the Editor-in-Chief of the FPCBP’s 25th Anniversary Magazine, which debuted in Dec. 2006. She is cur-rently involved with Operanation IV – an annual fundraiser for the Canadian Opera Company, and continues to play a role in the promotion of the Alte Hotel, her family’s hotel in the Algarve. Francine re-ceived a BA (Hons.) in Philosophy from York University and an MSc in Philosophy, Policy and International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Sergio Ruivo, TreasurerSergio has more than 20 years experi-

ence in public accounting/management consulting. He spent several years within

industries in senior financial roles, before moving into the commodity sales tax con-sulting field. Through his practice, Sergio is dedicated to serving the needs of the Portuguese business community.

Lu AmaralLu has held senior roles in the areas

of personal, commercial, private bank-ing and investments. She is responsible for business growth and ensuring that all bcpbank Canada customers experience superior customer service. In addition, she will support the local community through local sponsorship programs and events. An active member of Toronto’s Portuguese Canadian community, Lu is a member and former President of Vasco da Gama Cultural Centre of Brampton and a mem-ber of Carabram, The Zonta International Club of Brampton-Caledon, and a board

member at Casa Dos Açores.

Josie CaldasJosie is a law student at Queens

University. She has been extensively involved with the Portuguese commu-nity working at local community cen-tres since she was 16 years old. She has a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business at York University, where she specialized in Marketing. Josie also spent six months studying at L’Institut Européen d’Etudes Commerciales Supérieures de Strasbourg in Strasbourg, France.

Jude FernandesJude is employed by the Government of

Ontario to provide support and services to

Jennifer Abadesso has recently joined the Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business Professionals (FPCBP) as the Executive Co-ordinator. For those unfa-miliar with her past endeavours, Jennifer has been active in the Portuguese com-munity through her singing, volunteer-ing and humanitarian projects, most no-tably her involvement with the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. One hundred per cent of the proceeds of her latest musical undertaking, entitled “This Time,” were donated to the Toronto West Unit’s Cancer division.

Most recently, Jennifer has completed her degree in Professional Writing from York University and aspires to be a jour-nalist. For the past several years, she has worked alongside her parents at their bookkeeping firm R.M.A. Bookkeeping Services Ltd.

At this juncture in her life, Jennifer is thrilled to be joining the FPCBP, an organization brimming with ingenuity and talent. Besides the rewarding learn-ing experience that is bound to ensue, Jennifer hopes to form an amicable rap-port with the assembled membership.

New to the FPCBP team – Jennifer Abadesso!

continued on page 3

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Thank you to the 2007 FPCBP Sponsors

Meet the FPCBP Board of Directors


various political projects. He has a back-ground of life-long learning, with degrees in physiology, biochemistry, marketing management, computer networks, proj-ect management and a master’s degree in business specializing in corporate culture.

Eunice Machado Eunice earned an Honours Bachelor

of Arts degree with distinction from the University of Western Ontario in 1999 and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Toronto in 2002. She was called to the Ontario Bar in 2003. She is a lawyer at Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP where she has a general corporate litigation practice

and specializes in franchise and class ac-tion litigation.

Cristina MarquesCristina is the co-owner of Dreamcoast

Homes. She has been an entrepreneur in the Portuguese Community since 1975. Cristina is also active in various initiatives, some of which include, being a member of the Assessment Review Board, Chair of the Advisory Board of General Arts & Sciences Department at Humber College and President of the Federal Liberal Riding – Davenport.

Fernando D. MartinsFernando currently has his own law

practice in the heart of the Portuguese

community. Fernando specializes in immi-gration, employment and criminal law. He is also an active member of the Portuguese Canadian Lawyers Association.

Teresa MeloTeresa Melo has worked at Scotiabank

since 1987 and has held progressively se-nior positions within the branch network. Most recently, Teresa has been appointed Branch Manager at the Dundas and Brock location. This assignment is especially dear to Teresa as it allows her to recon-nect with her roots and work within the Portuguese community, contributing to its success and progress.

Paul SilvaPaul graduated from the University of

Ottawa with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Canadian History and a Bachelor of Social Science in Political Science in 1998. In the summer of 1998, he worked at Expo ‘98 in Lisboa as a Hospitality Officer at the Canadian Pavilion. He then went on to study at the University of Windsor Law School where he graduated with an L.L.B. in 2001. More recently, Paul accepted a position to work as a lawyer for a lead-ing title insurance company in downtown Toronto after having practiced real estate law for almost four years in the GTA.

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FPCBP 2007 Board of Directors and staff, from lt to rt: Jennifer Abadesso, Teresa Melo, Jude Fernandes, Eunice Machado, Paul Silva, Lena Barreto, Josie Caldas, Cristina Marques, Michael Sebastião, Francine Antonio and Avelino Fonseca. Absent: Lu Amaral, Fernando Martins and Sergio Ruivo

continued from page 2

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The Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business Professionals (FPCBP) held their annual Member-Get-A-Member event at Chiado Restaurant on May 28, 2007. The event was a great suc-cess with about 48 guests in attendance. A number of prominent members showed their support, as well as the Consul general of Portugal in Toronto, Dr. Maria Amélia Paiva.

Upon arrival, guests were offered a distinctively flavourful se-lection of Portuguese wine, red and white, generously supplied by ICEP. On the food front, Chiado Restaurant treated guests to a wide assortment of delicacies, including salmon puffs and veg-etable rolls, which have become signatures of Chiado’s meticu-lous, world-renowned gastronomy.

As the evening wore on, attention wafted over to the door priz-es. Business cards had been collected earlier, for the raffling of

two individual tickets to the Federation’s Annual Golf Tournament being held at the prestigious Royal Ontario Golf Club on June 27, 2007. FPCBP members (and previous Directors) Paula Oliveira and John Peter Ferreira walked away winners.

Overall, the FPCBP secured 17 new members, which only serves as a testament to the organization’s widespread appeal. One guest in particular, Armando Lopes, whom subsequently became a student member, summed it up best when he said: “When’s the next event?”

The FPCBP wishes to thank Mr. Albino Silva, owner of Chiado Restaurant and Senhor Antonio Tapas, for hosting the FPCBP’s an-nual Member-Get-A-Member event.

By Jennifer Abadesso

Member-Get-A-Member Event a Success!

Teresa Melo, Director; John Lopes; Scotiabank; Arletta Santos, ScotiaMcLeod

Eunice Machado, FPCBP Director; Ana Bailão, FPCBP Past President; Lena Barreto, FPCBP President; Cidalia C. Faria


No passado dia 28 de Maio, com a presença de 48 convi-dados, teve lugar no Restaurante Chiado localizado no no 864 College Street, um cocktail para angariação de membros para a Federação dos Empresários Luso-canadianos. Este evento anual, “Member-get-a-Member” já consagrado no calendário da FPBCP, contou com a presença da Cônsul-geral de Portugal em Toronto a Dra. Maria Amélia Paiva assim como a de distintos e dedicados membros da Federação.

Os presentes puderam apreciar diversos vinhos representati-vos da excelente vinicultura portuguesa, uma generosa oferta do ICEP, assim como desfrutar do supremo gosto gastronómico a que o senhor Albino Silva - proprietário do Chiado - nos tem já habituado ao longo dos anos.

É de realçar, igualmente o facto, que durante o decorrer desta agradável reunião, foram recolhidos os cartões de visita de todos os profissionais e empresários que se encontravam presentes, e posteriormente, sortearam-se dois bilhetes para o torneio anual

de golfe da FPCBP a realizar-se no dia 27 de Junho do corrente no Royal Ontario Golf Club. Os dois membros vencedores deste sorteio, Paula Oliveira e John Peter Ferreira, não puderam es-conder o contentamento de terem sido os sorteados.

Por último, o sucesso deste evento traduziu-se com a angari-ação de 17 novos membros para a FPCBP que marca assim o grande dinamismo e envolvimento de todos os elementos que integram esta associação. Dinamismo este, que ficou muito bem demarcado com o comentário feito no fim desta reunião, pelo estudante e novo membro da FPCBP , Armando Lopes que afir-mou “Quando é que está previsto o próximo evento?”

Por: Jennifer AbadessoTradução por: Paula Oliveira

FPCBP Member-Get-A-Member Evento um Successo!

Dra. Maria Amélia Paiva, Cônsul-geral de Portugal em Toronto;Lena Barreto, Presidente da FPCBP; Lu Amaral, Directora da FPCBP

Jude Fernandes, Director da FPCBP; Paula Oliveira, bcpbank; John Martinho;Carlos Teixeira, antigo Presidente da FPCBP


Born in 1958 and raised in Mississauga South, Charles Sousa was acclaimed as the Liberal candidate for his hometown rid-ing on May 29, 2007. A proud fi rst generation Portuguese Canadian, Charles speaks to FPCBP Director and Newsletter Editor, Francine Antonio about his decision to enter politics and the role of Portuguese organizations, like the FPCBP, as fertile training grounds for tomorrow’s politicians, professionals and business leaders.

Charles is a long-standing community volunteer for such groups as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Credit Valley Hospital Foundation, and of course, the FPCBP where he served as President in 2000, and continues to be an active member.

Charles believes strongly in the role of Portuguese organiza-tions, like the FPCBP, in raising the profi le and political visibility of the community. “Organizations like the FPCBP, the Congress and the Alliance serve an important role in supporting the com-munity in a broader sense, but they also prepare their members in other capacities – be it in politics or business,” he says. “The FPCBP provides the fertile ground to build the confi dence and abilities of its members and volunteers – I know I certainly ben-efi tted.”

Professionally, Charles has been with RBC Financial Group for more than 20 years. He is currently the director for business development in the RBC Commercial Financial Services sector. Previously, he was senior manager with RBC Financial Group’s Government and Community Affairs, which required him to deal with various levels of government in promoting the bank’s corpo-rate affairs strategies, while also assisting in public policy.

This was only one of the many roles Charles occupied that allowed him to satisfy his growng desire to affect public policy, and contribute to the political, social and economic well-being of Ontario, and the Portuguese community he holds so close to his heart. “The Portuguese are a proud people,” says Charles. “The community is fortunate to have a range of successful people that only serve as examples…the political, social, economic beacons of success that we’re all trying to achieve – I’m just doing my part.”

Charles’ extensive campaign experience in all three levels of government, his long-standing community involvement and vol-unteerism, and the immense community support around him made the decision to run for public offi ce easy.

“The Portuguese community has been really great,” he says. “Even as President of the FPCBP, people encouraged me to run for political offi ce…the same people that want representation and a voice in government. I’m not running because I’m Portuguese. For me, it’s about doing something effectively, giving back and accomplishing things that matter to our everyday lives…like sup-porting heathcare and education. Running provincially will allow me to achieve those goals.”

In Ontario, and Canada, there exists a growing trend of Portuguese Canadians seeking election to political offi ce, and a voice to help shape public policy. “Portuguese Canadians have always had a role in political campaigns, but they’ve historically been missing from the political table,” says Charles. “Portuguese Canadians bring a diversity that has been lacking. The community has had a long stay in the Canadian establishment (since the fi rst immigrants arrived in 1953, including Charles’ father). With many fi rst, second and now third generation Portuguese Canadians, I believe we’ll see more and more Portuguese Canadians entering politics.”

FPCBP Past President Charles Sousais looking for a seat at the political table

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The current Board of Directors of the FPCBP is continuing talks with other Chambers of Commerce in the Toronto area. In late 2006, a rapprochement of sorts was born when the FPCBP in partnership with the Italian Chamber of Commerce, the Toronto Chinese Business Association, and the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce joined the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Toronto to launch a new initiative being undertaken in the fall of 2007 to promote Toronto as a global city that is ready to do busi-ness with the world.

As all parties worked to jointly supporting this initiative, it soon became clear that our organizations share similar objectives and concerns. Chief amongst these shared goals is promoting the business interests of our membership, and supporting our mem-bers at the local, provincial and federal levels.

One of the positive benefits raised by these early discussions was the creation of an environment of co-operation between these various business organizations, providing the support of a broader metropolitan community on issues that affect us all. For example, when the undocumented workers issue arose in Toronto some months ago, this was seen as an issue where the FPCBP could have benefited from the support of other organiza-tions, including those listed above, in presenting a more united position with respect to the plight of these individuals.

Although the interests and objectives of all of the organizations are not identical, there are similarities, and it is these common bonds that are worth exploring for the benefit of all. A commit-tee is currently undertaking a review of the possible mandate for such an alliance, and how a formal framework will be put in place to facilitate supporting one another in the times where

assistance is needed. A peripheral objective in this exercise is the expansion of business opportunities for the membership of the various Chambers, thereby offering additional benefits to the members who may wish to transcend cultural lines in the interest of promoting their business. For example, our members who may be interested in doing business in China or India would gain the advantage of being invited on trade missions to these countries, or conversely, members from other Chambers would be invited on trade missions to Portugal.

Stay tuned for future articles highlighting developments be-tween the FPCBP and other Chambers of Commerce in Toronto. As a Board, we are always looking for ways to increase the value of your membership.

By Paul Silva, FPCBP Director

The FPCBP commences a “rapprochement” with the Chambers of Commerce from the Italian, Indian, and Chinese communities


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In celebration of Portuguese History and Heritage, the FPCBP held its 4th Annual Essay Contest. Students in grades 7-12 submit-ted essays with the theme “To me, being Portuguese means…” or “Para mim, ser Português é…” Despite that most of the Luso-Canadian youth are first generation Canadians, these essays proved the strong connection and sense of pride that the Luso-Canadian youth still feel for their Portuguese roots.

“Para mim, ser Protuguesa é uma honra,” writes Amanda Pires, winner in the grade 9-10 Portuguese category. She goes on to write that “Para mim, ser Portuguesa é ter Portugal no coração... é sentir saudades daquele país tão lindo, onde os nossos pais na-

sceram e cresceram.” A similar feeling is felt by Sarah Rodrigues, winner of the grade 9-10 English category. She writes, “To me being Portuguese means being blessed with a culture of strength, pride and happiness… being Portuguese means having pride, be-ing proud of your culture and being proud of your name. Every time someone asks me, ‘What’s your background?’ I am proud to say ‘Portuguese!’”

The FPCBP’s 4th Annual Essay Contest:Celebrating Portuguese History and Heritage

From lt to rt: Eunice Machado, Co-Chair of the FPCBP’s 4th Annual Essay Awards Contest; Lena Barreto, FPCBP President; Josie Caldas, Co-Chair of the FPCBP’s 4th Annual Essay Awards Contest

Sarah Rodrigues, winner of the grade 9-10 English category, with a family member


Given Canada’s vast immigrant commu-nity, assimilation can often be a challenge. However, Alexandra Raposo, winner of the grade 7-8 Portuguese category, has not forgotten her pedigree. She writes, “Para mim, ser Portuguese é uma grande parte de quem eu sou: uma pessoa que faz parte de uma historia, cultura e tradição magnífica. Eu sou canadiana e portuguesa. Porque sem isso, minha identidade não está com-pleta. Era como se eu fosse um tapete de Arrailols meio acabado, ou uma toalha de linho meia bordada, ou uma canção meia cantada, um fado desafinado.”

A common theme in many essays was the focus on Portuguese traditions. From rancho to fado, to food and festas, it is clear that Luso-Canadians are still very much living a Portuguese life. Kelly Henriques, winner of the grade 7-8 English category, says “the traditions in the Portuguese cul-

ture are amazing; they have been fun for me and many others that are part of this culture. Every year there is a traditional celebration of Portugal Day on June 10th, we celebrate Portugal and our culture. For

Christmas holidays it is tradition to make the traditional dessert called “Bolo Rei” which is also known as fruit cake. It is cus-tom to have one of these through out the

Christmas season. Cod fish is another well known tradition because every Christmas dinner cod is served.”

It is also clear that one cannot speak

of Portuguese traditions without speak-ing of the family bond that the Portuguese hold so dear. Chantal Lopes, winner of the grade 11-12 Portuguese category, writes “As tradições portuguesas e a sua cultura em geral, ensinaram-me a importância do laço familiar, um pilar para os meus va-lores morais e éticos.” Amanda Caldas, winner of the grade 11-12 English cat-egory recalls, “Some of my fondest memo-ries are of my family’s lunches on Sunday afternoons. No one would ever dream of missing Sunday lunch at my grandparents’ house.”

In celebration of their outstanding es-says and inspiring words, all six win-ners were awarded $1,000 towards a Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP) on June 21, 2007 at the Consulado Geral de Portugal in Toronto. Congratulations!

By Josie Caldas and Eunice Machado FPCBP Directors and Co-Chairs of the

4th Annual Essay Awards Contest

The FPCBP wishes to thank the dedicated judges, and On Your Mark! for promoting the Essay Contest Awards.

FPCBP Student Essay Contest Award winners with award sponsors (Scotiabank and Dreamcoast Homes), FPCBP Board Members and Consul General of Portugal in Toronto

Avelino Fonseca, FPCBP Director; Lena Barreto, FPCBP President; Dr. Maria Amélia Paiva, Consul General of Portugal in Toronto; Paul Silva, FPCBP Director

Chantel Lopes, winner of the grade 11-12 Portuguese category, with her family

FPCBP Student Essay Contest Award winners and judges

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At 34, Paul Ferreira became one of the youngest Members of Provincial Parliament when he was elected in the riding of York South-Weston on February 8, 2007 under the NDP banner. He also became the first Azorean-Canadian ever elected to Ontario’s legislature, a fact that makes him, his parents and his two sisters proud. Freelance journalist Philip Alves spoke to Paul about his journey from São Roque to Queen’s Park.

PA: When and where were you born?PF: I was born January the 7th, 1973 in the Azores in a town called São Roque ... on the island of São Miguel.

PA: When did you come to Canada?PF: We came to Canada in March of 1979. I was six years old at the time.

PA: Have you always lived in your riding of York South-Weston?PF: No. In fact my parents settled in Brampton where my grandmother was. She had come to Canada many years be-fore us. I grew up in Brampton and then went off to university in Ottawa. I moved to Toronto in 1999 ... and now call York South-Weston home.

PA: Has your family always been active politically?

PF: Both my parents were active trade unionists, so certainly there’s that part of the ideological upbringing. My family – going back to Portugal – there was some activist involvement. I had a cousin who was involved in the student movement in the Azores in the 1960s. Perhaps some of it runs in the genes, I don’t know.

PA: Fill me in on what you did before politics. In other words, what led you to run for office?PF: The first time that I ran was in 1997 as a 24-year-old and that was in Brampton. We arrived here in 1979 and, frankly, my parents didn’t arrive with much. They had to spend most of their savings to get the four of us over here, my sister Grace and I, and the two of them. We were very fortu-nate that we were given an opportunity to get ahead in life. We lived in social hous-ing for the first year of our time here in Canada. There were programs made avail-able to my sister and I through the school system that we were very grateful for. What really stirred me to run for office was my strong belief that everyone, regardless of where you’re born and who your parents are and what your financial circumstance may be, that everyone deserves the same opportunity to get ahead in life and to achieve success.

PA: What does it feel like to be the first Azorean elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario?PF: Azoreans, at least in large numbers, have been coming into Canada for the bet-ter part of 50-odd years. For me to be able to say, or to be seen as the first to hold a seat at Queen’s Park is tremendously hum-bling and something that I’m extremely proud of. I also hope that my accomplish-ment leads others to get involved in the same way. ... Especially amongst young people, I hope that it encourages them to get involved in the life of their community, wherever they happen to live, and to get involved politically and to strive to hold elected office. I think it’s a very noble pro-fession.

PA: So you gladly accept the title of role model then?

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Paul Ferreira: a working class kid from the Azores who’s achieved something special

continued on page 10


PF: Absolutely. Role model, mentor – whatever you want to call me.

PA: What did being the first Azorean elected to Queen’s Park mean to your family?PF: On my election night, my mom was able to be there and one of my sisters was able to be there. My dad was actu-ally working that night; he was on night shift at the steel plant. ... Halfway through my victory speech, he managed to walk in! He managed to get away and he was able to join me up on stage. It was an ab-

solutely wonderful feeling to be able to share that with them. ... I’m just a working class kid from the Azores who’s been able to achieve something special.

PA: How has the Portuguese-Canadian community supported you?PF: Folks have encouraged me to run. I’ve had members of the community who have actively campaigned on my behalf.

PA: What are your thoughts on Portuguese organizations like the FPCBP in terms of raising the clout and the pro-file of the community?PF: They have a very important role to play

in advancing the interests of the commu-nity, but also in bringing people together. ... I think that the cultural groups, the ser-vice clubs, the professional associations, they all have a very important role to play in unifying the community and in making it stronger.

PA: Anything that you would like to add?PF: I hope that the folks who read this are encouraged to get involved in the political discourse of their community. Partisanship aside – it doesn’t matter who you decide to get involved with, just get involved! We have a tremendous role to play, the Portuguese-Canadian community.

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On Sunday, June 10, 2007, Portuguese passion, flair and cre-ativity graced the streets of Portugal Square at the 20th annual Portugal Day Parade. Thousands of Luso-descendants flooded Dundas St. W. to celebrate Portugal Day, and to see the many celebratory floats put together by various community business-es, clubs and associations.

The Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business and Professionals (FPCBP) was a proud and customary partici-pant at the parade, where it took the opportunity to promote the 2007 FPCBP Scholarship Program to the youth in atten-dance and distribute copies of its renowned 25th Anniversary Commemorative Magazine.

Amongst those present in the FPCBP float, were four 2006 FPCBP Scholarship recipients – Nicole Oliveira, Moises Maria, Steven Gonçalves and Diana Pontes. The FPCBP would like to thank them for their service and commitment to the Portuguese-Canadian community. Finally, the FPCBP would like to thank the Alliance of Portuguese Clubs and Associations of Ontario for another vibrant Portugal Week celebration.

FORÇA PORTUGAL!By Michael Sebastião

Twentieth Annual Portugal Day Parade

continued from page 10


PAYE (Partnership to Advance Youth Employment) is a joint ini-tiative between private employers and the City of Toronto. This program is designed to engage the participation of corporate sec-tor employers in Toronto in order to increase economic activities for youth from certain priority neighbourhoods in the city. The City of Toronto has enlisted the participation of various employers in the GTA who are assisting by providing support for this pro-gram. City staff provide ground level support for PAYE initiatives by matching qualified youth to the employment opportunities offered by PAYE supporters. In addition, City staff will provide ongoing assistance and support to those youth who become em-ployed under this program.

The organizers of the PAYE initiative recently contacted the Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business and Professionals (FPCBP) to inquire as to whether or not members from our organi-zation would be interested in partnering with the City of Toronto for this initiative. We decided that because the program is a win-win opportunity for both participating employers and youth, we would present it to our members. We believe it is win-win be-cause it allows youth who are unemployed to gain the experience and responsibility required to earn a pay check, and allows them to become more confident in themselves, while staying out of the trouble. For participating employers, there is no cost to partici-pate in the program. The City of Toronto provides free recruitment services by screening and matching candidates with employers. In addition, the employer benefits greatly from the publicity as-sociated with being a sponsor of the program, while giving back to the GTA community.

For FPCBP members that might be interested in becoming sponsors of the program, the youth that are considered under this program are:

• up to 29 years of age

• high school graduates, internationally-educated workers with post-secondary education in need of Canadian experience, or youth looking for a fresh start after leaving school early for fam-ily, societal, or economic reasons

• a diverse group with a wide range of skills, education, and experience

• individuals seek-ing general entry level positions or better de-pending on qualifica-tions.

Employers who have already decided to join this program as participants and sponsors include: Black Business and Professional Association; Canadian Tire; CIBC World Markets Inc.; Deloitte & Touche LLP; Heenan Blaikie LLP; IBM Canada; Italian Chamber of Commerce; McCarthy-Tétrault LLP; Microsoft; RBC Financial Group; Toronto Board of Trade; TD Bank Financial Group; United Way of Greater Toronto.

This is a prominent group of companies, and it would be a great opportunity to be listed along side them.

Recruitment occurs at job fairs that are held in priority neigh-bourhoods throughout the GTA. For example, a participating cor-porate sector employer will submit a job description for a posi-tion currently available with their company prior to a job fair and City staff will attempt to match properly qualified candidates with that employer. The employer at the job fair then conducts inter-views with matched candidates. Youth are pre-screened by youth employment experts for employability skills, aptitude, personal preferences, interests, and goals. The more detail provided by the participating company, the better the match will be. All normal HR practices of employers are to be followed regarding proba-tionary periods and wage levels, and benefits should be market rate and commensurate with the position.

The next job fair will be held within the next couple of months. If you are an interested employer that wants to provide opportuni-ties to youth, or if you would like further information about this exciting opportunity, please contact Devi from the City of Toronto at 416-397-1475. Please mention that you were invited to par-ticipate by Paul Silva at the FPCBP.

By Paul Silva, FPCBP Director

PAYE Initiative:A way for employers to give back to the community without paying a cent

Make the most of your dreamsTM


Water service capital improvements and water ratesAt its meeting in February, Council approved a nine per cent

increase in water rates for Toronto Water for its operating and capital budgets. Because the increase will take place part way through the fiscal year, the increase will be shown as 10.8 per cent as it is charged on future water bills. The increase will help the City complete projects to repair the water infrastructure and to keep the water delivery and waste water system in good repair, to ensure the City is in compliance with new provincial legisla-tion requirements for drinking water safety and reporting, to help clean up City beaches for public swimming, and to acquire land to preserve source water.

New design for street name signsAt its March meeting, Council adopted a new street name de-

sign style for the City of Toronto that introduces commonality of colour and shape, improves legibility, and proposes consistency and distinctiveness for those neighbourhoods and BIAs that re-quest specific identification and branding. The City replaces be-tween 2,000 and 2,500 street name signs each year. The new street name signs will be introduced, as the old signs require reg-ular replacement. City staff will provide options for the disposal of decommissioned signs, including the sale of old signs with pro-ceeds benefiting the community. Staff will also report on a pro-gram to permit existing signs to remain in heritage conservation districts, and in older neighbourhoods and historic communities in the city, as well as in areas where current multilingual signs exist. Council’s decision to consolidate and co-ordinate the City’s street name signage supports the beautification and cleanliness of Toronto’s roads, and preserves the unique quality of Toronto’s many distinct neighbourhoods.

Enhanced property standards for heritage buildings In March, Council agreed to a set of minimum property stan-

dards to protect heritage properties designated under the Ontario Heritage Act. Designated properties that fail to comply with the new standards will be required to undergo repairs and mainte-nance work to ensure compliance with the standards. In addition, staff will prepare a report on the use of the City’s powers under the City of Toronto Act to carry out emergency repairs to protect the structural integrity, and prevent the deterioration of Toronto’s heritage properties from neglect.

Conference Centre proposed for Exhibition PlaceAt its meeting in March, Council approved $29 million in capi-

tal funding, including a $21.2 million loan from the City, to con-struct and furnish a new Conference Centre at Exhibition Place. Under the proposed plan, the Automotive Building will be reno-vated to accommodate the new conference facility. City heritage Preservation staff will work with Exhibition Place staff to ensure the heritage character of the building, which is designated un-der the Ontario Heritage Act, is preserved. The lack of available meeting space is an important issue as trade shows often incor-porate seminars and break-out sessions as part of their activities. Exhibition Place’s shortage of meeting space has resulted in the loss of clients to other facilities. The new Conference Centre will enable Exhibition Place to better compete to host major North American events.

Toronto Just For Laughs Comedy FestivalIn March, Council authorized the approval of a $500,000 loan

to establish an annual Toronto Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, beginning in July 2007. The Tourism Event Development Loan is a Council-approved program that is designed to help bring signifi-cant events and festivals to Toronto. Just For Laughs is a globally-recognized entertainment brand with a long history of provid-ing quality comedic entertainment. The Toronto Just For Laughs Comedy Festival is positioned as part of the organization’s 25th anniversary celebrations and will be a positive addition to the Toronto tourism, entertainment and cultural landscape.

City of Toronto 2007 Capital Budget and 2008-2011 Capital Plan

At a special meeting on March 7, Council approved the City’s $1.432 billion 2007 Capital Budget, with 50 per cent of the bud-get earmarked for the TTC. For the first time, Council also ap-proved a five-year Capital Plan of $6.7 billion with two-thirds of the budget focused on improving city transit and transportation infrastructure. Included in the five-year Capital Plan are invest-ments in projects to make Toronto a safer, cleaner, greener and beautiful city. State of good repair spending will average $1 bil-lion each year from 2007 to 2011.

City of Toronto 2007 Operating BudgetAt a special meeting on April 20 and 23, Council approved the

City’s $7.8 billion 2007 Operating Budget that maintains impor-tant municipal services, including police, fire, emergency servic-es, libraries, roads, transit, waste collection, recycling, and parks and recreation. To balance the 2007 Operating Budget, Council approved a property tax increase of 3.8 per cent for residents and 1.26 per cent for commercial and industrial properties. The City will also use $278 million from its reserve funds as a one-time so-lution to fill the budget gap. Toronto taxpayers continue to pay for provincially mandated social service programs that put a strain on the City’s Operating Budget each year. For the 2008 budget and future years, the City’s plan calls for the uploading of social services costs to the province, a share of new revenues that grow with the economy, such as one cent of the GST, the creation of a national transit strategy and using the revenue tools granted by the new City of Toronto Act.

City News

Tel: (416) 537-8874 • Fax: (416) 537-9706 • Email: [email protected]

Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9:00am to 6:00pm


w w w . t h e m o d c l u b . c o m

722 College Street,Toronto, ON M6G 1C4

Tel.: 416-588-4663 • Tel.: 416-588-7329


Past Presidents

Frank Alvarez

Ermidio Alves

Luis Arruda

Ana Bailão

David Costa

Fernando Costa

Ricardo Castro-Lopo

Raimundo Favas

Almiro Fonseca

Louis Louro, Jr.

João Neves

Nellie Pedro

Leo Pereira

Joe Pinto

Arnaldo Santos

John Santos

Armindo Silva

Charles Sousa

Carlos Teixeira

Founders

Laura Bulger

Fernando Costa

Vasco D’Avillez

Cesar de Morais

Germano Gonçalves

Delkar Maia

Alberto Pereira

Octavio Sampaio

John F. Santos

Armindo Silva

Lu Amaral, bcpbank

Fernanda Amaral-Mendonça, The Mortgage Centre

Nelson Baptista, Volvo of Oakville

Josie Caldas, Student

Ana Fernandes, bcpbank

Roosevelt Fernandes, Royal Bank

Rui Fernandes, Fernandes Hearn LLP

Susana Ferreira

Dennis Gil

John Lopes, Scotia Bank

John Martino, bcpbank

Michael Medina, Centennial College

Diane Rocha, Student

Joao Simões

Regina Suliman, Prive Spa & Hair Studio

To adver tise in this newsletter,please contact the FPCBP office at (416) 537-8874

New Members

2007 Board of Directors

President Lena Barreto

Vice-President Avelino Fonseca

Treasurer Sérgio Ruivo

Secretary Francine António

Lu Amaral

Josie Caldas

Jude Fernandes

Eunice Machado

Cristina Marques

Fernando D. Martins

Teresa Melo

Paul Silva


Connie Freitas, B.A. LL.B.Advogada

Business Law

“A única Advogada Portuguesa dedicadaao direito de empresas e lei commercial”

"The only Portuguese-speaking lawyer whosepractice is dedicated to corporate

& commercial law.”

Lawyers & Trade-Mark AgentsMacdonald Sager Manis LLP

w w w. m s m l a w. n e t150 York Street, Suite 800Toronto, ON M5H 3S5

T. 416.364.1553F. 416.364.1453

applications for the fpcbp’s 2007 scholarship awards are ...ber of carabram, the zonta...

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