Smart Magazine

FEBRUARY 2013 GTA ISSUE NO.1 FREEM A G A Z I N E

S.M.A.R.TWINTER DRIVING

HOME BUYING

SMARTPHONES

POSTURE PROBLEMS

WOMAN’S HEALTHTAX TIPSHOBBY VS BUSINESS

HOME IMPROVEMENT

RETIREMENT WEIGHT LOSSEARTH HOUR JOB INTERVIEWS

FRAUD PREVENTIONEVENTSUSED CARS

KIDSHOME SAFETY EYEWEAR

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2 . SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013 Open: Monday–Friday 8 am–6 pm, Saturday 8 am–1 pm, except long weekends

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How to do SMART things in a SMART way p.4Start to turn your hobby into a business p.6Confidence is key when driving in winter weather p.8Helping your child succeed at school p.11Think beyond the allowance to teach kids lasting money skills p.12Five tips to keep your home safe and secure p.15No battery changes needed in newest smoke alarms p.15Men enhance their look with trendy eyewear p.16Let’s talk about business – interview p.17Six tips to keep your New Year’s resolution to lose weight p.18Maximize retirement savings p.21Lights off for Earth Hour p.22Job interview etiquette p.24Dressing for success p.25Calendar of events March – April 2013 p.27First time home buyer? How to save a downpayment p.29Green home improvements p.30Step-by-step screening for colorectal cancer p.33Quick online quiz can save a woman’s life p.33Six steps to getting the best deal on a used car p.34Vacationing? Top 3 tips for packing a mobile device p.36Fraud prevention tips for older adults p.37Tax tips p.38Posture perfection the natural way p.40Getting familiar with smartphone platforms p.43A guide to keeping our children safe p. 45Recognizing a cold versus the flu p.46Reduce your water use on World Water Day p.46

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Do you feel that you are failing in your personal or professional life? Do you have a feeling that your business can perform much better than it is currently performing? Do you want to ask for more money, more responsibility but don t know how? Are you looking for a romantic, long lasting relationship? Do you want to meet new people, but are too shy?

If your life is going nowhere and going there fast, read this article because there is a simple formula that can help you.

According to many researchers, if we are planning and doing things according to the acronym S.M.A.R.T., we can achieve our objectives in a much shorter time and we can accomplish them in a much more efficient way. We can also complete more objectives. How it is possible? Is S.M.A.R.T.some kind of a magical formula?

Historically, the concept of management by objectives was introduced in 1954 by management guru Peter Drucker. However, the description on how to practically use the acronym S.M.A.R.T. in real life can be found for the first time in “Personal Success Planner” a book by Peter J. Mayer published in 1965.

According to Mayer the acronym S.M.A.R.T stands for:

S – Specific M – Measurable A – Attainable R –Realistic T – Tangible

Tangible was changed to “Timely” or “Time Bound” by Blanchard and Hersey in 1988 and the full acronym was used to provide instruction on how to set and achieve real life objectives. Later on the term “realistic” was changed to “relevant”.

Today the acronym S.M.A.R.T. (SPECIFIC, MEASURABLE, ATTAINABLE, RELEVANT, TIMELY) is used across many industries, in management, human resources, personal and professional development, goal settings, business development, project management, by American Army, American Navy, American Air Force. It is used to conduct risk analysis and performance assessments. Doctors use S.M.A.R.T. to plan surgeries. Trainers and teachers use this acronym to plan instructional designs. The police force use S.M.A.R.T. to plan operations.

S.M.A.R.T. is a very popular tool because of its flexibility. This acronym can be and is used for planning strategic operations on the global scale as well as for very specific, minor tasks. For example, we can use S.M.A.R.T. as a planning tool when converting our paper-based office into a paperless one. Going deeper, we can use

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SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013. 5

this acronym when buying software and hardware necessary for such a conversion.

We can use S.M.A.R.T. when doing day to day shopping. When thinking about a new romantic relationship. When asking a boss for an increase. Even when preparing for a job interview. The use of S.M.A.R.T. is practically without limitations. So, how do we, the readers of “SMART” magazine should use this acronym for our advantage in real life situations? Let’s start from the beginning.

Set your goals in a S.M.A.R.T. way

If we are going to achieve something,we must first define what it is. Therefore, our objective must be specific. We have to remember that unclear objectives bring vague results. Therefore, when setting an objective in a S.M.A.R.T. way, we have to be as specific as possible. Some people instead of “specific”use other words like: significant, stretching, simple.

For the purpose of this article, we are going to use the S.M.A.R.T. formula for goal setting. For this purpose and to make our goal as specific as possible, we have to ask some, or all, of the following questions:

WHAT – What do I want to accomplish?

WHY – Specific reasons, purpose or benefits of accomplishing the goal.

WHO – Who is involved and absolutely indispensable.

WHERE – Identify a location.

WHICH – Identify requirements and constraints.

Let s look at some examples of “specific” in a goal setting process. Anna is setting her goal: I will lose weight this year. As we know already, this goal is too vague and will produce a vague result or even no result at all. Anna should make this goal more specific. For example: By the end of March I weigh 5 pounds less than today. Our goals should be always in present tense and in a written form.

As we said earlier, each goal should be measurable. If we don t know how to measure the progress towards achieving the goal, we will never know how far off we are. A measurable goal will usually provide answers to questions such as:

How much? How many?

How will I know when it is accomplished?

Let s take a look at the following situation. We are running a business involving sales people. We want to increase our sales volume by increasing the number of customers. We set our goal as: We should find and contact new customers. What will be the probable outcome? Our sales people will probably find a few new customers and they might increase our sales volume a little. However, if we set our goal differently, for example: By the end of March every sales person attends at least 4 sales events and attracts 4 new customers, then our sales volume will probably increase significantly. Furthermore, our sales people will have a clear objective and direction of what to do.

The third term in our acronym stresses the importance of goals that are attainable (realistic, achievable, and acceptable). It is important to understand that some goals are too extreme and cannot be achieved in a given timeframe. An attainable goal will usually answer the question:

How can the goal be accomplished?

Here is an example. Unless we are planning a medical procedure, it is unrealistic to drop 30 pounds in 30 days. If we set an unrealistic goal, the result could be opposite to the desired. If something is impossible to achieve in a prescribed timeframe, people will simply give up trying. By setting goals, we should never set ourselves up for failure. Therefore, our goal should be realistic: By the end of March my weight is 5 pounds less than today.

The fourth term “relevant” stresses the importance of planning the goals that matter. How can we asses if something is important enough to be chosen as a goal? There is a relevancy test. A relevant goal should answer “YES” to these questions:

Does this seem worthwhile? Is this the right time?

Does this match our other efforts or needs?

Are you the right person? Is this acceptable for correction?

Here is an example. A floor manager s goal in Canadian Tire is to change oil in 12 cars by 5 pm. This goal is specific, measurable, attainable and timely. However it is not relevant to the floor manager s job. It is amazing how many times people are setting irrelevant goals that have no practical meaning. Therefore, we have to always check for relevancy to what we are going to accomplish.

Goals need to have a timeframe. Assigning a timeframe gives our goals structure. People spend a lot of time planning and talking what they want to do some day. Usually they do nothing. Their goals never materialize, because they don t have structure. They don’t answer the questions:

When? What can I do 6 months from now? What can I do 6 weeks from now? What can I do today to achieve my goal?

The intent of setting a timely goal is to establish a sense of urgency. What we can do right now towards the goal? If we don t setup a timeframe (start and end date) we will probably never even start and certainly never accomplish anything. The end date is also crucial. Without an end date there is no reason to take any action today towards our future goal.

This article is intended to help you establish the structure of real life goal setting. However, we have to remember that the acronym S.M.A.R.T. should be personalized. This personalization should take into account our specific situation.

By setting goals and writing them down, we are advancing towards the top 5% of the most successful people in North America.These people know what they want and how to get there.Once you know what you want, you are ready to create your own, personalized goals. But be very careful. Do not push yourself too hard and too fast. Always set reasonable goals according to the acronym. S.M.A.R.T. and always know where you want to go. o


6 . SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013

START TO TURN YOUR HOBBY INTO A BUSINESS By Arthur Roszak e-mail: [email protected]

We all have hobbies. After all, we all have done activities that we enjoy in our leisure time. Some of us enjoy travelling, others baking and others gardening or reading self-development books. Many of our hobbies we have had for many years and we are very knowledgeable about them.

Canadian business owner Bruce Poon Tip loved to travel. In 1990 he founded G Adventures - Adventure Travel & Eco Tours, which has grown from a one person operation to a company with over 1,350 employees around the world. Martha Helen Kostyra who was born to Polish-American professionals discovered that she is artistically gifted and loves to cook. A few years after Martha married Andrew Stewart she parlayed her domestic skills into a catering business, which she ran from a basement at her home and later turned it into a publishing and broadcasting empire better known as Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

Many very successful entrepreneurs like the controversial Martha Stewart or the Canadian entrepreneur Bruce Poon Tip have turned their hobbies into successful businesses. In fact, your chances to succeed are much higher when you turn your hobby into a business for two main reasons. First of all, you can become an expert by performing an activity over a long period of time, so your learning curve will be much shorter and you can start making money much more quickly. Secondly, you are more likely to stick with your business idea longer when times get tough if your business idea is about something you enjoy doing and you are passionate about. So, one might ask, how can you turn your hobby into a business? I recommend following the 4 Steps method outlined below: Step 1: Find our whether anyone cares about your hobby.

I recommend you find out if there are other people who care about what you love to do in your leisure time. Initially, you can ask your friends, family members or neighbours if they are willing to buy your products or services. For example, are they willing to pay for the lovely cupcakes that you are baking? Do they at least enjoy eating those cupcakes? If you are the only one who loves to eat your cupcakes then you do not have a market for them and you will not have a business. A business without customers will only be a hobby. You can also conduct a focus group to find out if people outside your close circle like or need what you have to offer.

Step 2: Conduct competitive market research.

Most likely your hobby is not new, and your business idea is not unique. Unless, you have the foresight of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, the original founders of Apple, who shared a similar hobby of dabbling in electronic devices, then you got yourself a multi-billion dollar hobby or idea. The chances that you have the same foresight into the future as Jobs and Wozniak had are the same as winning in Lotto 649. I recommend being more realistic by researching businesses that most likely grew from the same hobby that you have. Do a diligent research by analyzing different websites, magazines, books, and business newspapers. Most importantly I recommend that you talk with

the owner of a business which operates on the same business idea. No business magazine or book will give you the expert knowledge of a successful business owner, of course if that successful business owner is going to be honest with you, which is another challenge that you will encounter. The point is, do your market research and do it very well.

Step 3: Get out there and try to sell your hobby to someone.

Nothing will give you a better feedback as to whether there is a need for your hobby then a sale. When you sell a product or a service you got yourself a customer. I recommend you try to sell to more then two people because some people might buy from you because they love you or feel sorry for you, which is fine, but it will not turn your hobby to a successful business. Selling to real customers will also provide you with a very important feedback from your customers about your price, quality of your product or service, about whether they need it or want it. I recommend you listen to your customers all the time because they are your eyes and ears. Please note, customers do not always behave as projected in a business plan. You must get out of the building and try to sell your services or products that were based on your hobby. For example, if you enjoy gardening you should get out there and try to sell landscaping services.

Step 4: Give it your best effort and work with what you have.

I do not recommend that you to quit your job or even take a loan when trying to find out whether you can make money from your hobby. Sure, there are successful start-ups funded by loans, personal line of credit, credit cards or the popular home equity loans. However, you have to know that most successful businesses like Apple, Yahoo, YouTube, and even Google were launched without any outside investments. Try to turn your hobby into a business by working with your savings, asking your family members or friends for financial help. Trust me, this is the best time to find out whether you actually have any friends. I recommend that you work as much as you can and as hard as you can, depending on your personal situation, on your business idea. Because 5 or 10 years from now you do not want to have regrets that your business did not succeed due to a lack of effort on your part. I guarantee you that when you give your business idea the best shot by working hard at it as much as you can, you will never regret that you started turning your hobby into a business.

It will be very important for you to find out whether you got yourself a business or only a hobby. A business will pay your bills, a hobby will create you more bills. So remember not to quit your job when you want to continue to enjoy your hobby at your leisure time. I recommend you first complete Steps 1 to 4 even before drawing up your business plan and getting any loans for your business idea. Always remember that many successful businesses were launched out of hobbies. Before Jobs and Wozniak launched their Apple business, both of them had a huge passion for innovative electronic devices. Also, remember that your hobby can be infectious, and as long as your idea is good, it will attract others to help you realize your dream, so you will not find yourself alone. Put your hobby out to the market if you have the desire to become a business owner one of those days. o





(BPT) - Harsh winter conditions can have crippling effects for drivers in locations often affected by snowy and icy weather during the cold months. Hauling the kids to hockey practice or even a quick trip to the grocery store could prove to be a difficult task, especially if a vehicle is not ready for challenging conditions that may come with the cold weather.

Just as consumers spend hours winterizing their homes, it is important to winterize your vehicle. Preserving your investment during the colder months of the year should be a top priority.

To make sure your vehicle is prepared for the winter months; here are some simple tips to help you arrive safely to your destination and not end up on the side of the road.

• Traction is key: With hazardous winter weather ahead, now is not the time to ignore your tires. Many vehicles need superior performing winter tires for optimum traction to navigate harsh winter conditions with confidence. The Goodyear Ultra Grip family of tires covers the winter driving needs of virtually every consumer. This line leverages innovative technology to help provide

CONFIDENCE IS KEY WHEN DRIVING IN WINTER WEATHER

superior traction in challenging winter conditions. Winter driving experts such as the ILR Winter Driving School, located in Mount Albert, Ontario, Canada, choose Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT tires for superior performance in winter conditions.

• Feel the pressure: As temperatures change, so does tire pressure. Proper tire inflation is essential for increased automotive safety, optimum driving performance and even good fuel mileage. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer recommendations printed on a placard on the driver’s side door jamb or in the glove box, and should be checked at least monthly. Improper inflation can lead to premature or irregular tire wear and even reduce a vehicle’s fuel efficiency by an average of 3.3 percent.

• Take the lead out of your foot: Remember, just because you have superior traction doesn’t mean you can speed in snowy and icy conditions. With temperatures dropping, any precipitation can cause the roadway to become dangerously slick. When approaching intersections, stop signs, turns or any area where you have to decelerate, take your foot off the gas, apply the brakes gently and give yourself a cushion in case of slippery conditions. You can’t get to your destination quickly if your car is off the road.

• A clean vehicle is a safe vehicle: Do not drive without removing snow from the entire vehicle. If snow is left on the hood, it can blow onto the

windshield, obstructing your view and if left on the roof or tailgate, snow can fly off the car, especially at high speeds, hitting other cars and causing accidents and swerving. Driving with snow on your car, obstructing your vision, is dangerous.

• Protect your investment: Cars, trucks and SUVs are likely weathering the harsh conditions and corrosive elements associated with winter, including freezing rain, snow, ice, sand and salt. Keeping vehicles clean will help protect them from the chemicals and dirt that may attack the car’s finish and undercarriage. Be sure to use quality cleaners and waxes specifically designed for handling a car’s finish.

• Keep it flowing: Oil is the lifeblood of the engine, helping to keep it running efficiently and effectively. Not sure what oil to use? Defer to a professional or use the grade of motor oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to achieve optimum engine protection and fuel efficiency.

• Keep a kit: Keep a survival kit handy. A flashlight with fresh batteries, a blanket, water bottles, cellphone charger, jumper cables, flares, a “HELP” sign, and a first aid kit will prepare you for emergency situations or unexpected breakdowns.

For more helpful car care advice or information on tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs and more, visit your local Goodyear retailer or go online to www.goodyear.com. o




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SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013 11

As loving and concerned parents, we want the best for our children. We want them to be successful in school and in social life. When a child struggles at school, it is a very stressful and challenging experience for many parents. They may feel disappointed, frustrated and at times defensive toward the teacher who identified the problem. However, without appropriate support, the child who struggles academically or with behavior, may continue to fall further behind, and as a result, perceive coming to school as an unpleasant and stressful experience.

A child’s school difficulties may be related to a number of different factors. Recognizing them promptly and accurately is essential to help the child succeed at school. Family stresses, lack of interest and motivation or unrealistic goals may negatively affect a child’s school performance. Bright children, who have been intellectually stimulated before entering school, may become frustrated and underachieve in the traditional educational system. There are also psychological factors, such as Learning Disability or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder that are relatively common reasons for a child’s academic and behavioural struggles at school.

A psychological assessment that addresses school and learning issues is usually essential to understanding the reason for a child’s difficulties and to assist in developing the best strategies to ensure that the child learns and

Helping your child succeed at school By Ewa Antczak

develops to his or her full potential. Psychological assessments are individualized and may be completed only with the written consent of the student’s parent/guardian or by the student 18 years of age or older. Based on the results from the assessment, the child may be identified as an exceptional learner and be eligible for special services and academic support within the public school system. However, not all assessments lead to a diagnosis. Many colleges and universities accept individuals deemed as exceptional and provide them with necessary accommodations, based on recommendations from the psychological assessment. In other words, the whole purpose of this type of assessment is to provide parents, teacher and the student, with programing suggestions that are specifically tailored to the student’s unique learning style. Therefore, early identification of a child’s areas of strengths and weaknesses can lead to educational success by providing the child with appropriate strategies and as a result, keep the child motivated to learn.

There are two methods of accessing a psychological assessment that addresses school and learning issues. This evaluation may be obtained through the child’s school system or it can be done by some psychologists in private practice. Psychologists in the school system are highly trained professionals who have good knowledge and understanding of resources that can be offered to the student and his/her parents within the public school system. There is no financial cost for an assessment; however, the waiting time may be excessive. Private assessment may be done much sooner. There is usually a cost to it which can be partially or fully covered by some work benefit plans.

Dr. Ewa Antczak

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www.helpyourchild.ca phone number: 416 579 2405



(BPT) - One of the most exciting parts of parenthood is watching your children learn as they grow. Of course, life’s lessons can be tough just as often as they can be pleasant. And as you want to protect kids from falling off their bike or scraping a knee, you also want to set them up for a successful financial future, as free from worries as possible.

One of the best things you can do to prepare your kids for a lifetime of handling money is to get them started early. But it isn’t only about timing - following through with lessons and providing plenty of explanation is essential.

Keep these tips in mind to give your kids a leg up in learning about finances.

• Start saving. The earlier you can get your kids into the habit of saving, the more they’ll have to enjoy down the road. The concept doesn’t need to be overly complex - and it shouldn’t be, when you’re dealing with very young children. Piggy banks are a perfect tool for starting saving habits;

Think beyond the allowance to teach kids lasting money skills

a simple glass jar works, too, and gives kids an exciting visual to associate with their savings. As your children grow, so should their ideas about saving money. Opening a real savings account in your child’s name is not only an exciting event for her, it builds an early understanding of banking. Some schools and banks even have partnerships that allow students to make deposits at school. If your school doesn’t offer such a program, make trips to the bank with your kids and show them how to monitor their accounts.

• Have ongoing conversations about money. Making your children comfortable with discussing finances is a gift that, while not flashy, will serve them well throughout their lives. Start conversations about needs versus wants, budgeting and life’s necessary expenditures. Encourage price comparison skills by going grocery shopping together and looking at different brands. Set an example by telling kids how you save up to buy an item that you want and ways that you cut costs - and what you can get from the savings. If there’s something your child wants, provide

guidance and ideas for how to save up the amount needed to make the purchase.

• Effectively use an allowance. An allowance is a tricky thing - it can be a good teaching tool, but you don’t want your kids to view it as a handout. Whether or not you choose to associate chores with an allowance is up to you, but you should have discussions with your children about when allowances will be paid, and how they can be spent - or saved. Encourage savings by providing two bank envelopes - one for savings and one for spending. If your budget

allows for it, consider a “match” program in which you contribute a percentage every time your child makes a savings deposit.

• Don’t be afraid of mistakes. Some of the most powerful lessons lie in making mistakes, so don’t be afraid to let your children make some less-than-perfect decisions. Whether they overspend their budgets or waste money on something frivolous and later regret it, it’s important for them to learn the consequences of financial mismanagement early in life.

Teaching kids about money can be daunting, but doing so lays the groundwork for a stable financial future. Whenever possible, make lessons about money fun, yet practical; emphasize that money doesn’t have to be scary, and that good things come from using it wisely. -

Visit the Equifax Finance Blog (blog.equifax.com) for more useful information and tips on managing family money matters. o



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. SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013 15

(NC) March break is here and families across Canada are packing up for a vacation away. Whether you’re spending a week in the sun, on the ski hill, or visiting family, you want to know that the house you’ve left behind for the week is safe, protected and will be in good shape upon your return.

“Many Canadian families plan to travel over March break and want to know their home will be just as they’ve left it after returning from a vacation away,” says Ian Pattinson, Vice President, Smart Home Monitoring, Rogers Communications. “There are some simple ways to ensure your home will be kept safe and new home security options to give you the ultimate peace of mind whether you choose to go away for a week, or all season long.”

Here are five steps you can follow to secure and prepare your home before your March Break getaway:

• Ensure all your doors and windows are securely locked: Check that all windows, doors, gates and garage doors are properly locked before you leave. Make sure to remove any spare keys from obvious hiding spots like doormats or flowerpots.

• Have someone regularly check in on your home: Arrange for a friend or neighbour to check up on your home every couple of days. Ask them to bring in your mail, shovel your

Away with the family over March Break? FIVE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE AND SECURE

driveway if needed and water your plants.

• Set your lights and thermostat, and regularly check up on your home through a home security and home automation system: Today’s latest home security and home automation systems, like Rogers Smart Home Monitoring, do more than provide a simple alarm system. With Smart Home Monitoring, you can control heat levels, lights and small appliances, all from your smartphone or tablet. Real-time alerts are also sent to you via email or text message, so you can know the instant something happens to your home, from wherever you are.

• Practice energy savings: Automation of lighting, thermostats and small appliances may cut energy costs. Unplugging small appliances like your toaster and coffeemaker will save energy. Turning your heat down (no lower than 13°C) will prevent your water pipes from freezing.

• Make your home look occupied: Place your newspaper subscription on hold. Park a car in the driveway. Put light timers on your light fixtures.

Vacations should be stress free for the whole family, and knowing that our homes are safe will make for a more relaxing vacation. To learn about securing your home with Rogers Smart Home Monitoring, visit www.rogers.com/smart. o

(NC) There is now a way to simplify your family’s fire protection as some smoke alarms ring in 2013 with major improvements.

The safety product market leader Kidde is introducing entire line of ‘worry-free’ smoke alarms.

Featuring new ‘sensing technology’ and ‘sealed lithium batteries’, these latest models can be installed throughout the home and eliminate common smoke alarm complaints.

The first issue to be addressed is nuisance alarms. These new products, according to Kidde, feature smart-sensing photoelectric technology that minimizes, if not eliminates,

No battery changes needed in newest smoke alarmscooking and shower steam-related false alarms.Next on the hit list is battery replacement.

“Our sealed lithium batteries last 10 years and allow you to say good-bye to low-battery chirps that always seem to happen in the middle of the night,” says Carol Heller, a home safety expert for the company. “Never having to replace the batteries for the 10-year lifespan of the smoke alarm is far more convenient and it saves money too.”

“Our customers spoke up and we listened,” Heller continues. “It’s our company goal and responsibility to help save lives by making fire safety as easy and convenient as possible.”

More smoke alarm information and safety tips are found at www.kiddecanada.com and www.safeathome.ca. o



MEN ENHANCE THEIR LOOK WITH TRENDY EYEWEAR

(NC) Some men just look better in glasses. Whether plastic or wire, round or square, eyewear offers a flattering frame to the masculine face. As the fashion industry capitalizes on this trend, men’s eyewear has become a dominant style commodity on the international fashion scene, with icons like David Beckham and Johnny Depp looking lens-perfect on the red carpet.

Two eyewear brands are at the forefront of the premium-designed eyewear industry this year. Evatik is designed for the bold and sophisticated male, while Kliik caters to both sexes with sleek European style. Designed to provide a balance between fashion and function, both brands offer a wide range of options. More information is available on evatik.com and kliik.com

“2013 is all about updated classics, retro-inspired looks and timeless sophistication,” says Beverly Suliteanu, the vice president of product development for WestGroupe, leading Canadian eyewear manufacturer and distributor. “Shapes, colours, and detailing are essential when selecting the ideal frame to complement your look.”

Rimless and semi-rimless styles offer subtle sophistication, letting lens shape lead the way, says Suliteanu. Popular tones for wire styles like these are silver, gold and black, lending to their signature understated look. Expect to see a wide range of eye shapes, including round, aviator, clubmaster-inspired and square.

The colour palette for 2013 is composed of classic blues, greys and neutrals. Two-toned designs, including colour-blocking and traditional tortoise are especially strong.

Intricate detailing, like patterned metal, faux wood finishes and retro styling top off any look with eye-catching style.

Many agree that a man in specs emits a powerful aura, coupled with refined style and sophistication. If specs suit your style, but you don’t require a prescription, opt for plano or faux lenses. Suliteanu advises trying on different styles, shapes and frame models until you find your perfect pair.

Try on every shape, colour, and style to find the right specs for you.

Shape: Round (Victorian to hippie influences), Aviator (classic, updated, plastic 70s versions), Clubmaster-inspired, Square

Colours: Tortoise (classic and updated) Two-tones/color blocking, Blue, Neutrals

Details: Faux wood finishes, Patterned metal, Retro styling o

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LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS -interviews with small business owners

Eve, why did you open Euro Optical and what were its beginnings?

We started our business in 1999, so we have been in the Canadian marketplace for 13 years. We decided to open the Euro Optical Salon right after my graduation from college and receiving the license to practice as an optician. As a company, we started from absolute scratch. We had to equip the salon with furniture, optometric equipment and of course a variety of models of glasses frames. Our first office was located on Dundas Street also, but in a slightly different place.

What difficulties have you encountered in the first months and how did you deal with them?

The hardest were the first two years of our business, because we had to win customers and their confidence. In the beginning of our most frequent “customer” was the postman bringing more and more new bills to pay. However, we have invested in advertising of our showroom, and with the passage of time, more and more people, especially the Polish-Canadians started using our services. Satisfied customers were recommending our salon to their friends and this way we were acquiring new consumers.

What services do you provide in your salon?

We offer a full range of optical services. In addition to buying lenses and frames, you can make an appointment for eye examination and the selection of appropriate lenses. For examination by an optometrist we invite you on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

What assortment of products do you offer to your customers?

We have a wide selection of lenses, contact lenses and frames from coloured plastic frames for children, those for youth, adults and seniors, men and women. Surely everyone will find

something suitable for themself. Deciding on the chosen model customers should pay attention to several factors which will allow to match the glasses with their future owner. What I have in mind are such factors as the type of face, dressing but also the type of prescription lenses. Unfortunately, not every type of lenses is suitable for all types of frames. If prescription lenses do not have very high values plus (for farsightedness) or “minus” (for nearsightedness) the client has virtually unlimited choice of frames. If, however, these values are high, which may, for example, require the glass to be fairly thick; it will not fit all types of frames.

How often do you feature new products in Euro Optical?

Because ophthalmology is a science that is constantly evolving and moving forward in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, we do not remain behind. I regularly take part in various training courses and seminars and broaden my knowledge in this field. As for the frame models I follow the latest trends both at the “upper end” of leading brands and top designers such as Versace and Dior, as well as those in a slightly lower, more affordable price range.

What then is the price range of products offered by your salon?

Prices start at $ 80 for selected frames. You can also buy frames costing up to $ 700. From time to time we offer special promotions to our customers, for example, reading glasses, sunglasses or progressive glasses. The last ones have the most advanced aesthetic and comfortable lenses that provide clear, sharp vision, regardless of the distance. Their advantage is that you can wear only one pair of glasses, so you don’t need to constantly change them. Sometimes when you buy a pair of glasses we offer a discount on another pair.

Do you have any advice for readers on how to take care for their eyes and vision?

Yes, I would strongly advise all the parents to take their children for regular, that is, annual eye examinations. I stress that it is very important to start early, even at the age of 3 to check their vision and the proper development of the eye. The eye exam should be done yearly until the child is 6 years old. At the time of birth every child has hyperopia (farsightedness), because the eyes are the last organ that develops due to the fact that eye development requires light, which is not present in the womb of the mother. Early detection and diagnosis of any abnormalities leads to early intervention and thus effective treatment. The best example here is my daughter. When she was 2 years old I took her to the eye doctor, who advised to get her glasses with positive lenses for hyperopia. After 10 years of wearing these glasses the defect completely disappeared, and now my daughter does not wear prescription glasses any more. If as a small child she had not worn glasses, she would have most likely had around 3.4 diopters by now and with the early treatment we were able to correct the problem.

Euro Optical 3115 Dundas St W. Mississauga Tel. 905-569-1177

In this issue we talk to Eve Gladecka – optician and owner of Euro Optical at 3115 Dundas St W. in Mississauga



(BPT) It’s probably the most commonly made new year’s resolution: lose weight and get into shape. In early January, the gyms are full, the sports stores run out of equipment, and the streets are teeming with new joggers. Many of us promise ourselves to lose weight to start the new year, and usually, within a month or two, we have given up.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Dr. Michael Zemel, creator of the NuShape Brand all-natural weight-loss supplement, says that simple lifestyle changes are the key to losing weight and keeping it off.

“People put too much pressure on themselves to change everything in their diets, which sets them up for failure,” says Zemel. His advice? Set your sights on making several small dietary and lifestyle changes, and you’ll lose weight without making major sacrifices.

NuShape works with the body to turn 15 minutes of moderate exercise into 60 minutes of fat burning. It is an all-natural, clinically demonstrated supplement containing leucine and vitamin B6. Leucine is found in protein-

SIX TIPS TO KEEP YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION TO LOSE WEIGHT

rich foods, like eggs, meat, poultry, dairy and legumes. But food cannot give you the amount of leucine needed to burn fat, according to Zemel. When combined with 15 minutes of exercise a day, NuShape’s unique blend helps the body burn an extra 300 calories for sustainable weight loss without any side effects.

He offers these six easy diet and exercise tips:1. Choose a parking spot away from the mall entrance - Get a little exercise before you start shopping by choosing a parking space away from the mall entrance. Even walking just 15 minutes at a time can improve your health, both physically and mentally. Visit www.myNuCoach.com for more 15-minute exercise ideas.2. Say no to the elevator, when possible - Whether you are at work or the mall, choose the stairs instead of elevators or escalators. Remember, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. If you have to go up to the eighth floor, consider taking one flight of stairs up and then pressing the elevator button.

3. Bring your workout indoors - During the winter, sometimes it’s hard getting outdoors. Squats, leg lifts, and walking lunges are great exercises to do indoors. For weight training, use 10-pound dumbbells for bicep curls or tricep extensions, using a chair for support.4. Just add water - Drinking fruit juice is an easy way to chug down calories. But if you love the fruity taste, cut down your serving by mixing half the amount of juice with an equal amount of water - and say goodbye to 85 calories.5. Downsize, don’t super-size, fast food meals - Opt for a small order of fries instead of a large one with your fast-food meal (savings: over 300 calories) Another portion-control trick: Instead of placing serving bowls of food in the middle of the family dinner table, measure individual portions in the kitchen.How easy is it to cut back 100 calories on a daily basis? One hundred calories equals:

• 1 cup of regular soda

• 1 tablespoon of butter

• 1 ounce of cheese

6. Reward yourself for small changes - Most diets fail because people set high expectations and when they don’t achieve their goals, they feel defeated. However, losing any amount of weight is good, even if you don’t meet your goal at first. “Small successes are what you’re looking for,” says Zemel. Reward yourself with something that makes sense to you, such as a new dress or pair of jeans you’ve wanted to get into.Losing weight doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Small, simple changes can produce the biggest results.

To learn more about NuShape, the all-natural weight-loss supplement, visit www.NuShape.com. o


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(NC) Valuable tax preparation resources are available to communities across Ontario prepared by the Certified General Accountants of Ontario www.cga-ontario.org.

Here is a snapshot of tips to maximize pension contributions and your Registered Retirement Savings Plans:

• Individuals who are paying Canada pension plan (CPP) and/or employment insurance (EI) premiums may claim a 15 per cent federal tax credit and 5.05 per cent provincial tax credit on the amount paid.

• Contribute to your RRSP early in the year. If, for example, you contribute $22,970 — the maximum possible annual contribution amount for 2012 — at the beginning of the year instead of at the end, over a 25-year period, assuming a five per cent rate of return, you would have an extra $54,800 in your RRSP.

• If you are an employee who is making regular RRSP contributions, request that the amount of income tax withheld on your pay cheque be reduced

M A X I M I Z E R E T I R E M E N T S AV I N G Sin order to reflect the savings those contributions will bring. This is a more efficient way to manage your money.

• You don’t have to deduct an RRSP contribution in the year it is made; instead, you can carry it forward for deduction in a future period when you have income placing you in a higher tax bracket. Be sure you have used all personal tax credits before deducting your RRSP contribution.

• If you are at least 65, consider creating pension income by converting part of your RRSP to a life annuity or an RRIF if your financial circumstances warrant such a move.

• Contributing to a spousal RRSP also creates potential pension income for your spouse or common-law partner.

• Pension income splitting can be a good strategy to minimize overall family taxes if the spouse to whom the funds are being transferred has low, or no other sources of income.

• If you qualify for Canada pension plan (CPP) disability benefits, remember to check to see whether you also qualify for the federal disability tax credit (DTC). o



Lights off for Earth Hour

(NC) It started in 2007, when 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses in Australia turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. A year later, more than 50 million people across 35 countries participated in what became a global sustainability movement.

This year, on March 31st from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., more than 120 countries are expected to participate. For some, this one hour of darkness might sound like too much to bear. Without their gadgets, televisions, laptops, and the Internet, many people freeze at the thought of being disconnected.

But, as supporters point out, it’s worth stopping to think that for millions of people living in developing countries, the electricity we take for granted is a luxury that they can’t afford.

“When the sun sets in the rural areas where we work, children who don’t have any other source of light have to stop studying and go to sleep,” says Mark Lukowski, CEO of the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada. “It’s heartbreaking because these children really want to learn, but their economic situations hinder them from success.”

The organization works in these communities to build safe places and support children, individuals, and families so they can break the cycle of extreme poverty.

“Earth Hour lets us get a glimpse into life for those in the developing world who are left in the dark on a daily basis,” says Lukowski. “It’s an eye-opener and a great way to challenge ourselves to do more for them.”

If you would like to make a difference, take a look at www.ccfcanada.ca. On the site you can purchase gift catalogue items like an oil lamp and fuel for a year for $60, or a fuel-efficient cooking stove for $65 to help those in need. o



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JOB INTERVIEW ETIQUETTE Minding Your Manners on a Job Interview: TIPS FOR JOB INTERVIEW SUCCESSBy its very nature, a job interview can be stressful since so much is riding on this single opportunity. There are countless decisions an interviewee has to make, and who doesn’t want to make a good first impression? What should you wear? Who should speak first? When and where should you sit? Should you mention your last supervisor was psychotic?

While it’s impossible to anticipate everything that might cast you in a less-than-favorable light during an interview, the following are tips that will help you put your best foot forward.

Dress accordingly and be well groomed. Think of your visual appearance as your first impression. Tight or baggy clothing, jeans, or inappropriate attire such as t-shirts with slogans send the wrong message.

Arrive 15 minutes early. Arriving too early for an interview can look just as bad as showing up late. Fifteen minutes shows you are eager but not desperate.

Give the interviewer your personal business card. Your resume is on file in a database along with many others. The card, however, makes it easy for the interviewer to find your contact information and even easier to remember your name.

Look people in the eye. Eye contact is very important during an interview because it shows you are listening. Your body language is just as important as your employment history.

Take a few notes. By having a binder or notepad with you and taking notes, you not only look eager, you look professional.

Do not lie about anything! A gentleman or lady does not lie. They do not need to. How embarrassed would you be if you were denied jobs because of a little white lie on your resume or during the interview process?

Apply your professionalism and your ability to communicate by avoiding “uhs”, “you knows,” and slang.

Thank the interviewer twice: once for the opportunity at the beginning of the interview, and once for his or her time when the interview is over.

Close your interview by making a lasting impression. Keep eye contact, provide the interviewer with a firm handshake, and express your thanks for this opportunity.

Send a thank-you note as soon as possible. This is a very gracious gesture that will keep your name in the interviewer’s mind.

Follow up. Call within seven calendar days of sending your thank-you note. If there is no answer, call again 48 hours later. (If you have no response by this time, odds are you are no longer under consideration.) After three calls, leave a message stating you are moving on, but once again thank the interviewer for his or her time.

Article courtesy of Business Training Works. For training, coaching and keynotes, visit www.businesstrainingworks.com

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So many of the impressions we give other people come from visual cues. Even so, body language, gestures, and tone of voice connect with our clothing style and fit. Combining all of these elements puts you way ahead of the pack. Many people think that your resume is the key to a great position, but it’s not. Your resume is the key to an interview, but the impression you give is what makes you or breaks you.

Picture this: You have an interview Monday morning. Your resume is up to date, cover letter revised, and you are confident your research of this particular company will enable you to speak insightfully on up-to-the-minute developments. You’re ready, right?

Nope! What are you going to wear? More important, what is your attire going to say about your work ethic? According to the classic Albert Mehrabian 7%-38%-55% rule, 55% of another person’s perception of you is based on your appearance.

Pressed khaki trousers and a button-down Oxford shirt are great if you are applying for a customer-service position. A pinstriped shirt, no tie, wool gabardine trousers, and coordinated sport coat are ideal for an entry-level management or non-financial sales rep position. For most “white collar” positions, a dark suit, white shirt, and a conservative, appropriate tie will do. For a top executive, it is all about the details: best fit, fabric, grooming, with matching accessories and shoes.

It makes sense to dress your best for an interview, regardless of the organization’s dress code. If ever in doubt of how to dress for an interview, lean towards conservatism. It is always better to be overdressed than underdressed--or undressed for that matter.

DRESSING FOR SUCCESS Best Foot Forward: Smart Choices for Making a First Impression

Really, skin is not in for most types of interviews.

The fit of your clothing is another important aspect of dressing for success. Clothing that is too tight or too loose is completely unattractive and incredibly unflattering. Ladies, do not be sexy. Leave the miniskirts and cleavage for the club. Guys, pull up your pants . Put a belt on where it’s intended to be, not half way down your rear end. Dressing appropriately for your body means wearing clothing that fits you correctly. You don’t want to look like a stuffed sausage or a child wearing a parent’s clothes. Always look twice! Make sure your trousers don’t “pool” or “break” over your shoes. You don’t want your suit to strain or pull anywhere, and it should follow the natural line of your shoulder. Dressing this way is not only comfortable but also much more appealing to a future employer.

Color affects employers as well because it conveys a symbolic message and produces an emotional reaction. You have the right to choose whatever colors you like. But they do influence the statement you are making about yourself and suggest how you may or may not fit into a company. You should always wear colors that suit your skin tone. This makes you look alive and vibrant, while others can make you look drawn and tired.

Most job seekers head straight for black for their first interview. Black suggests authority but may be too powerful too early. Save it for the final interview when you most likely will meet with senior management. Navy blue is a good choice for a first interview because it implies confidence, and blue stands for loyalty. Red is a bold choice but could be appropriate for a sales position because is signals aggressiveness. Muted red would be more suitable than dynamic red. Pink is feminine and is associated with romance, friendship, and softness. Although popular, this could be a risky choice. I say pink is an option only after you’ve landed the job. It is important to show off your style, but your style should not overpower you.

Excellent grooming shows that you respect yourself. If you are a believer in the latest scents, minimize the amount you use. Too much is offensive to most and has no place in the office. Your nails should be clean and well manicured. Ladies, please leave the lengths not from this universe, unnatural colors, and decals to the kids. Your hair should be clean and brushed or combed. Women with long hair should have a professional sleek style. Make sure your clothing is crisp and pressed. Bring mints along instead of chewing gum. And absolutely NO smoking before the interview!

Finally, remember that your attitude is one of your strongest assets. Look and act like someone the other person can connect with personally. Look like you want to be there, have enthusiasm, and smile!

For additional infomation about creating a professional image, consider bringing our dress for success training course to your organization.

Article courtesy of Business Training Works. For training, coaching and keynotes, visit www.businesstrainingworks.com



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sistering.org/events/kitchensisters.php Reception: 6 to 7 pm Dinner: 7 pm Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, 85 Hanna Avenue

www.bicycleshowtoronto.com Better Living Centre Exhibition Place, Toronto,

www.supercrossonline.com/Events/2013/03/23/Toronto,_ON Rogers Centre One Blue Jays Way Toronto

www.canadablooms.com Direct Energy Centre Exhibition Place 100 Princes’ Blvd.

www.nationalhomeshow.com Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd.

www.goodfoodfestival.com Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd

www.niagarahomeandgardenshow.ca Scotiabank Convention Centre, 6815 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls

www.foodanddrinkfest.com Careport Expo Centre, 270 Longwood Rd. South, Hamilton

www.britishislesshowcanada.com Toll Free: 1-800-693-7986 International Centre, Hall 6, Mississauga ON

digitalmediasummit.ca Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen Street West,

www.cmw.netT: 647.346.4101 Toronto Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre

www.oneofakindshow.com/toronto/index.php Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd.

www.buddiesinbadtimes.com Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander StreetToronto

canadianmusicfest.com 1 905 858 4747 Various Toronto clubs/venues

canadiancomedyfest.com 905 858 4747 Various Toronto clubs/venues

www.torontosketchfest.com Comedy Bar, 945 Bloor Str. W. The LOT (Lower Ossington Theatre), 100A Ossington Ave. Randolph Theatre, 736 Bathurst Street

www.ontariomaple.com/pages/greater_toronto_area Kortright Centre for Conservation (Woodbridge) Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area (Stouffville)

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(NC) Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones, but for many first time home buyers, getting together the money for a down payment is a huge challenge.

“As a first time buyer, saving for a down payment is no mean feat,” says Ron Abraham, president of the Ontario Real Estate Association. “However, the benefits of home ownership make the struggle well worth it. Remember, the more you put down initially, the better; as this will cut into your long term mortgage costs.”

Abraham recommends a combination of smart saving, careful budgeting and tapping into government incentives to help get your down payment together and into your first home faster.

Most banks and lenders advise putting 20 per cent down – while this may not be possible for all first time buyers, Abraham suggests getting as close to that number as you can, and offers these tips to help:

• Cut back: Remember, small things add up. A recent poll by Visa Canada found that 60 per cent of Canadians eat lunch out at least once a week. At an average cost of $8.80 per meal, eating out three times per week adds up to $20,000 after ten years!

FIRST TIME HOME BUYER? How to save a down payment.

• Organize expenses: Make sure you keep track of your expenses so you can flag issues. Categorize spending so you can see where

your money is going – it may motivate you to forego your daily latte.

• Borrow from your RRSP: To provide first-time homebuyers with greater access to their RRSP savings to purchase or build a home, the Government of Canada has increased the Home Buyers’ Plan withdrawal limit to $25,000 per person for withdrawals made after January 27, 2009.

• Apply the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit: To assist first-time homebuyers, the Government of Canada introduced a $5,000 non-refundable income tax credit on a qualifying home acquired after January 27, 2009. For eligible individuals, the credit provides up to $750 in federal tax relief starting in 2009.

To obtain more information on the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit and the Home Buyers’ Plan, visit the Canada Revenue Agency website at www.cra.gc.ca.

To access current mortgage information and incentives that you may be qualified for, speak to your Realtor, or visit www.howrealtorshelp.ca.



(BPT) - What your home is worth to you is one thing; what it’s worth to someone else may be totally different. If you want to boost the value of your home for yourself and in the eyes of others, one of the best ways to do that in today’s real estate market is to make green home improvements.

Going green can mean a lot of things, and it’s easy to start with small changes like switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs and unplugging appliances when they’re not in use. Not only will you be doing good for the environment, you might end up saving on utility bills and, ultimately, increasing your home’s value when the time comes to sell.-

Green projects aren’t all necessarily in the do-it-yourself category, and making an investment to have the bigger jobs done right will pay off in the long run.

“It’s important for homeowners to consider cost-saving efficiency projects as part of their overall home renovation plans,” says RE/MAX CEO Margaret Kelly. “And a trained real estate agent will be able to identify the projects that cut current expenses and pay potential dividends when you’re ready to sell.”

Getting started now - even if that just means planning - is a good idea, particularly if you’re thinking about selling in a few months’ time. Talk to a real estate agent about what improvements are popular among potential homebuyers, and consider these ideas:

• Insulation: Regulating the hot air your home lets in during the summer and lets out in the winter can have a short-term impact on your heating and cooling bills. To find out whether you need additional insulation in your attic or walls, order an energy audit. Perhaps you could benefit from adding blown-in insulation to your walls. If your attic is unfinished, it’s particularly important to make sure that it’s appropriately insulated to avoid wasting energy.

• Windows: Caulking and putting up energy-saving window film is a great start, but a more dramatic change might make a world of difference if you want to make a sale. Replacing your existing windows with high-efficiency versions can be an expensive proposition, but the return on your investment can be dramatic, particularly if you’re hoping to attract buyers. o

GREEN HOME IMPROVEMENTS THAT CAN MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE IN HOME VALUE

• Landscaping: While planting isn’t always possible in the coldest months of the year, putting together a plan for energy-conscious plantings is a great idea. Consider adding trees that will bring shade to the sunniest spots, like the west side of your home, to cut summertime electric bills. Trees that lose their leaves in the fall will let light in during the winter, as opposed to evergreens which will block it throughout the year.

• Water: Take the first step by turning down the temperature setting on your water heater. For more savings, consider replacing older heaters with energy-efficient models or even solar water heaters. Adding insulation to your pipes can also make a difference in how much energy is used to heat water.

Most homeowners put a lot of effort into making their homes attractive, welcoming spaces. With green updates, you can make your home not only more comfortable and more energy-efficient, but also more appealing to buyers. Add the potential energy savings and the possible boost in home value and you have even more reasons to bring your home into the green age.

For recommendations about making your home green, talk to a knowledgeable real estate agent. Green agents at RE/MAX have a commitment to sustainability and specialized knowledge that you can tap into when making improvements. To learn more or to find an agent in your area, visit-www.remax.com.


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(NC) Throughout February and March, at various public events around the province, Cancer Care Ontario and the regional cancer programs are asking Ontario residents to “Make the Pledge” and get screened for colorectal cancer.

Although it’s not a commonly discussed topic, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths and the third most common cancer diagnosed in Ontario. This may sound discouraging, but colorectal cancer is treatable and beatable. In fact, when caught early, there is a 90 per cent chance that people with colorectal cancer will be cured, compared with only 12 per cent if detected at an advanced stage.

That’s why cancer screening is so important. It can detect

STEP-BY-STEP SCREENING FOR COLORECTAL CANCERcolorectal cancer when there are no symptoms and when treatment is most effective. As part of the “Make the Pledge” call-to-action, an interactive photo station is travelling to communities across Ontario to educate people about screening.

The steps for getting screened for colorectal cancer are:

• If you’re over 50 years of age with no family history of colorectal cancer, make an appointment to talk with your health care provider about screening.

• Your family physician or nurse practitioner will provide you with a Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) kit which is a simple test that can be completed in the privacy of your home.

• If you do not have a family physician or nurse practitioner, you can get a FOBT kit from a local pharmacy or by contacting Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-828-9213.

• If you’re over 50 years of age with a family history of colorectal cancer in a parent, brother or sister, talk with your doctor about being screened by colonoscopy.

All people over 50 years of age should screen for colorectal cancer every two years. To help determine your eligibility for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening, visit the Time to Screen interactive tool available at www.ontario.ca/screenforlife. o

(NC) An online quiz aims to put the spotlight on the 90 per cent of women in Canada who have at least one significant risk factor for heart disease or stroke.

Created by the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s The Heart Truth Campaign, the one-minute quiz at TheHeartTruth.ca/quiz is an easy awareness tool for women who are shouldered with too much to do and too little time.

Heart disease and stroke is a leading cause of death for women in Canada, and kills seven times more women than breast cancer. The foundation is urging women to make healthy lifestyle choices, recognize heart attack and stroke symptoms, and seek prompt

QUICK ONLINE QUIZ CAN SAVE A WOMAN’S LIFEtreatment, says Bobbe Wood, foundation president.

“Women often don’t recognize the initial symptoms until it’s too late,” says Wood. “Sometimes, women don’t even believe they are having a heart attack or stroke.”

The quick-click questionnaire weighs all your risk determinants, including: family history, age, ethnicity, activity levels, intake of fruits and vegetables, smoking, body mass index, alcohol use, fast food frequency, stress levels, diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure levels, hormone replacement, pregnancy history and use of oral contraception.

The quiz then rates each response as a risk factor, potential risk factor or the desired protective factor. “You might find many surprises,” says Wood.

For example, research shows that African Canadians, First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and South Asians from India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have a greater chance of developing high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. As well, although modern oral contraceptives are safer than they were a few decades ago, research has already proven that, in a small proportion of women, they increase the risk of high blood pressure and blood clots. Women who smoke and use oral contraception are at even greater risk of heart disease, stroke and blood clots.

By identifying these risk factors and embracing incremental healthy choices, women can make good health last, says Wood. o




SIX STEPS TO GETTING THE BEST DEAL ON A USED CAR(BPT) - When it comes to value purchases, there are few that compare to buying a used car over a new one, since new cars begin to depreciate the minute they are driven off the lot. If you are able to find a used car that still has plenty of life, you can save thousands from what you would pay for a new car.

While buying used can net you the best deal on a car purchase, it also requires you to do your homework to make sure you truly are getting good value from your purchase. Here are six steps to help you rest assured that your used car purchase is a good one:

* Start by identifying the type of car you want to buy. Consider expanding your search to similar car models that offer the same types of benefits. For example, though the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain are different in name, they are nearly identical mechanically.

• Use online resources like Edmunds.com and car enthusiast forums to identify any red flags around given models or years.- Focus less on reported reliability when the car was new and more on the car’s reliability today. Minor problems in the first year are much less important than major problems that might show up a few years down the road.-

• If you discover that a particular model might contain features that don’t age well, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should avoid the car. If it’s a widely known issue that has damaged the reputation of that type of car, but can be easily fixed, you may be able to find a bargain. Aftermarket part manufacturers often create good solutions for original problems. Again, it pays to do your research. Auto parts retailer RockAuto.com allows you to quickly check the availability and cost of replacement parts. When you use Rock Auto’s Repair Index tool, you can also compare any two models you are considering to get an idea of which one might cost more to maintain.

• Once you have identified a specific car, use the car’s VIN number to buy a vehicle history report from Carfax.com or one of its competitors. Simply googling the VIN number can also pull up free auction records and sales histories that may be helpful. If the history report is different than what the owner has told you, there’s plenty of reason to proceed with caution.

• Next, develop an inspection checklist to go over yourself as you test drive and examine the car. Check to make sure the license plates are current and verify the vehicle recently passed an emissions test if they are required in your area. Check brakes, hoses, belts, the body and underbody for signs of wear or damage - a dealer should be more than willing to put the car on a lift for your inspection if you are serious about buying the car. Make sure the heat and air conditioning work.

• Do not worry if you are not a car expert and have no idea how to evaluate some

systems on the car. Even if the car passes your personal inspection, you’re not done yet. Take the car to a trusted professional mechanic for an inspection.

“I have been a car nut since I was a pre-teen and I only buy used cars, but I would still take any car I was considering spending a lot of money on to a professional mechanic for an inspection,” says Tom Taylor, engineer and vice president of RockAuto. The mechanic will almost always find something you overlooked. His inspection may tell you to avoid a car or help you negotiate a fairer price. Use RockAuto.com on your smartphone and the mechanic’s report to immediately show the seller how much it will cost to replace needed parts.

If you’ve done your research and followed these precautionary steps, you’ll feel informed as you negotiate a selling price and can rest assured that you’re getting a quality vehicle. All that’s left is enjoying your new purchase. o



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(NC) Say goodbye to the cubicle and put the textbooks aside, it’s time for a well-deserved break. Whether you’re hitting the beach or the ski slopes, many Canadians are gearing up for vacations all around the world this March break.

This year more than ever before, devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are becoming important resources that travellers are packing to stay entertained, connected, and informed on their trip. For this reason, it is important to take a little time to plan ahead to ensure that you have a friendly roaming experience as 47 per cent of Canadians are still confused by what roaming entails, reports a Rogers survey.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your upcoming trip this March Break:

Understand how roaming works. When you use your phone outside of Canada, you are on a roaming partner’s network and will incur additional charges when making or receiving calls, sending text messages, and using mobile internet (email, web surfing, applications and so on).

Plan how you’ll use your device and purchase a roaming offer so you stay on budget. If you want to talk and text, purchase a travel pack. You’ll receive an allotment of minutes and texts for an upfront one-time fee and you will be protected by

Vacationing? Top 3 tips for packing a mobile devicediscounted rates if you go over the included amounts. If you plan to use the internet, purchase a worry-free roaming data pass. While you’re away, you’ll receive text-message usage notifications as you use your roaming data pass and will be hard stopped once your pass expires so you never incur overage fees. Both travel packs and roaming data passes can be quickly and easily added to your account through your mobile device.

Manage your device settings. Take a close look at your smartphone settings before you leave to use only the device features that you need. For example, you can disable applications and automatic software updates so they aren’t running in the background. You can also change email settings to “pull” instead of “push” so that your inbox refreshes manually.

To learn more about roaming in preparation for your vacation, visit www.rogers.com/techessentials for more details. o



FRAUD PREVENTION TIPS FOR OLDER ADULTS (NC) Seniors are all too often the target of fraudulent phone calls and email scams. Many security experts agree that older adults can be seen as profitable targets for fraudsters – in part because seniors are often thought to have a “nest egg” and an excellent credit rating.

What makes this even more alarming is that research shows seniors who do become victims of fraud are not telling their friends or family. This is an important step to help law enforcement catch the criminals and prevent fraud in the future.

“According to a Visa Canada survey, approximately half of all seniors over the age of 65 who have been victimized by fraud do not tell anyone about their ordeal,” says Gord Jamieson, head of security for Visa Canada. “Individuals should never be embarrassed to talk to family, friends or their bank if they have questions or are worried they may be a victim of fraud.”

Jamieson points out that there are many things seniors, and all Canadians, can

do to help safeguard their personal information and prevent fraud. He recommends the following tips for the young at heart:

• Always treat your cards as if they were cash, and don’t leave them in places where they are easily accessible to anyone.

• Always report lost or stolen cards immediately to your bank.

• Always make a list of all your card numbers and keep this list in a safe place.

• Always create a PIN that is hard to guess (e.g. not a birthday or phone number).

• Always be cautious when asked for personal information over the phone when you didn’t initiate the call.

• Never share your PIN – not even with family, friends or caregivers.

• Never keep a written copy of your PIN in your wallet or purse.

• Never lend your credit or debit card to anyone, ever.

• Never agree to a “free trial” or

“sample” without reading the terms and conditions. You may be agreeing to future monthly charges – which aren’t free.

More fraud prevention tips can be found online at www.VisaSecuritySense.ca. o

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(NC)—Valuable tax preparation resources are available to communities across Ontario prepared by the Certified General Accountants of Ontario www.cga-ontario.org.

Here is a snapshot of tips pertaining to offset education costs now and in the future:

• There is a non-refundable federal “textbook tax credit” of 15 per cent of $65, or $10, to cover each month the student is eligible to receive the full-time education tax credit and 15 per cent of $20, or $3, for each month they are eligible for a part-time education tax credit.

• Parents who spend at least 12 hours per month studying in an educational program lasting at least three consecutive weeks at a secondary school, college, university or other designated educational institution, are eligible to claim expenses incurred for child care expenses while they or their spouse/common-law partner attend certain schools.

• Scholarship, fellowship or bursary income with respect to post-secondary education or occupational training is fully exempt from taxation, provided it applies to enrolment in a program that entitles the student to claim the education credit. (They must be eligible to claim that education credit during the current, preceding or following taxation year.) This exemption also covers elementary and secondary school education, such as in a private school setting. Scholarship, fellowship or bursary income that doesn’t meet this requirement is subject to a $500 tax-exempt ceiling.

• For every dollar a parent, grandparent or other person contributes toward the RESP of a child up to 18, the federal government will contribute at least an additional 20 cents, up to an annual limit of $500 for a $2,500 contribution through the Canada education-savings grant (CESG). Special rules apply to contributions made on behalf of 16 and 17 year-olds.

• Families with net family income of up to $42,707 in 2012 are entitled to a higher annual CESG grant of 40 cents for every dollar on their first $500 of RESP contributions. Families with net family income between $42,707 and $85,414 are eligible for a higher grant of 30 cents per dollar each year on their first $500 of contributions.

• RESPs allow adults to grow their education savings tax free too. You can name yourself or another adult as the sole beneficiary of an RESP, as there are no age limits for RESPs established for only one individual. o

Tax tips to lower the cost of education

(NC)—The Certified General Accountants of Ontario are teaming up across the province to help low-income earners file taxes.The free tax preparation services program is available to individuals with a gross income of less than $25,000 or families with a household income of less than $30,000. The initiative aims to ensure that low-income earners, including qualified seniors and people with disabilities, have local access to tax experts providing free tax returns. CGAs file thousands of free tax returns through the program each year. The service is currently scheduled at nearly 40 locations across Ontario until April 30, 2013. Complete Tax Preparation Service information is available online at www.cga-ontario.org. o

CGAs across Ontario provide free tax preparation services

(NC)—Valuable tax preparation resources are available to communities across Ontario prepared by the Certified General Accountants of Ontario www.cga-ontario.org.

Here is a snapshot of tips pertaining to childcare savings:

• Payments made to a boarding school or camp, including a sports school that requires lodging, qualify up to a maximum of $175 per week per child under seven and a maximum of $100 per week for other eligible children between seven and 16, inclusive.

• The child-care portion of fees paid to a private school that provides both educational and child-care services (such as before or after-class supervision) might also be deductible as child-care expenses.

• For parents of children with a disability, there is no requirement that the parent claiming the child-care expenses for eligible services, such as baby-sitting, or those provided at a day nursery or day-care centre, among others, be the one who claims the disability tax credit (DTC) on behalf of an eligible child. In many cases it will be advantageous for the other parent to claim the DTC. In some cases the child, after having attained the age of majority, might be able to claim the DTC.

• A grandparent who supports a grandchild may be able to claim child-care expenses as the primary caregiver.

• Fees for your child’s extracurricular classes may also be eligible for the tuition credit if your child is at least 16; the classes are taken through a certified educational institution in Canada; and the program provides occupational skills. Dance or skating lessons are examples of classes that might qualify. o

Tax childcare savings



Claim tax credits for your child’s fitness

and arts activities(NC)—No matter whether your children are artistic or

athletic, supporting their activities translates into a very busy

family life. Between dropping your kids off at the rink and

attending annual piano recitals, you’re sewing costumes and

running out to get oranges for half-time snacks. Regardless

of your children’s interests, save your receipts—signing up

your kids for their favourite activities may save you money

at tax time. Both the children’s fitness tax credit (cra.gc.ca/

fitness) and the children’s arts tax credit (cra.gc.ca/artscredit)

allow you to claim up to $500, per child, on the fees you’ve

paid for eligible activities. This gives you a non-refundable

credit of up to $75 per tax credit per child. That’s enough

to tune up that violin or buy those new cleats for soccer. Or

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Incorrect posture is a major reason why people worldover experience severe and painful back problems. Poor posture results from many causes- sitting at a desk all day long, lack of exercise, watching TV or playing video games all day long slouched on a couch, or just forgetting to tell ourselves to straighten up! Improper posture has many negative affects more than just looking bad. Prolonged bad posture can result in back injury which can worsen over time with age. A person becomes inflexible and is unable to perform even simple everyday tasks. However, Naturopathy offers some simple and benefitial ways in which this problem may be alleviated permanently.

1. Regular exercise. Stiffness in the back can be alleviated with simple exercises that a good naturopathic doctor will be able to recommend. The exercises are not difficult or strenuous, and are designed to suit the unique needs to every individuals body. Exercising for half an hour at least every day, at least 5 days a week will improve posture and flexibility, and make the patient feel more active and energetic than ever. These posture exercises also help with associated problems, such as neck pain.

2. Sitting right while watching TV. Instead of slouching yourself in awkward positions on the couch in front of the TV, try and sit upright on a comfortable chair. Also, instead of sitting around for prolonged periods of time, get up and take a small stroll at regular intervals- perhaps during commercial breaks. In addition to better posture, this will also help prevent painful blood clots in the legs, and improve blood circulation.

3. Keep your feet happy. The sole of the foot has pressure points that affect every part of the body, including the back. By wearing uncomfortable foot gear, such as very high heels for

Posture Perfection The Natural Way by Clifton Jenkins

prolonged periods, feet get exhausted resulting in aches and pains on various body areas. Keep your feet happy by wearing comfortable shoes which allow them to breathe. Getting regular foot massages from expert practitioners is also a good idea to activate those pressure points to soothe the back and other body parts.

4. Taking special care during pregnancy. When carrying a belly, we tend to curve our lower back inwards too much which becomes problematic for digestive and reproductive organs. Some women find that wearing a maternity support belt is extremely effective. Also, try and bend at the legs instead of the waist and avoid putting too much pressure on the back.

5. Natural calcium supplements and foods. Many times we slouch or have bad posture due to weak and brittle bones. Naturopathy recommends that eating right is extremely important. Herbal supplements and foods high in calcium, such as milk are extremely beneficial for strong bones. Getting enough vitamin D in your diet is also essential to allow your body to absorb the calcium.

The correct posture can breathe a new lease of life into every body part, whereas an incorrect posture can cause severe and sometime permanent damage to the back. A few simple changes to our daily lives can bring tremendous results as far as improving posture and overall health goes. Speak to a professional naturopathic doctor for more advice on your specific problems.

Join the Naturopathic Doctor Vancouver program with Dr.Lederman to live a healthier and fulfilling life, the natural way. o© uPublish.info



41 . SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013 SMART MAGAZINE . February 2013. 41

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In today’s battle of smartphones, phone manufacturers are trying to outdo each other in coming up with a model that doesn’t just have all the bells and whistles, but pack really powerful applications and features that will answer all the needs of the users. Their aim is for a user not to look for another phone anymore once he or she gets hold of the phone they made. If you come to think of it, today’s smartphones have almost the same features. The only differences are sometimes just on the design, the navigation, and the all-important operating system.

Of course, the operating system or OS is something that is looked at mostly by advanced users, although there are many regular users out there who may not exactly be techies but are choosy when it comes to the OS of their smartphone either because of loyalty to one or being used to a specific OS or platform. Right now, iOS, Android and Windows are the most dominant platforms for smartphones (the new Blackberry 10 still have to prove its worth).

So, which platform reigns supreme? Right now, not any of the three. If you ask people which platform they prefer, they would probably choose the one they have on their phone now. Each platform certainly has its own merits and demerits. The reason why a user stays loyal to a specific platform is not only because he got so used to it, but also because moving from one platform to another means he has to replace his apps as well, which means a new round of costs if the apps are not free. In many cases, however, especially when changing to Android, there would be no issues moving across movies and music.

Choosing iOS can be an excellent decision if just for the reason that it’s the longest established among all the current big platforms. Users of this platform can testify not only to its beauty and ease of use, but also its stability and security. It is also the top choice of many app developers. One of the downsides (albeit few) to the iOS, though, is you don’t get many choices with it. Unless you jailbreak your iPhone, the only apps you can install are those from the Apple store.

As for Android, well, it sure has come a long way since it was initially developed in 2005. There is a wide range of Androids, however, especially on new phones. Being open to some extent, those that develop hardware have the freedom to choose which version they want to use. Samsung’s Galaxy II and LG’s Nexus 4 are examples of high-end phones that use this operating system. Users who have this platform can have easy access to tons of apps via the Google Android app market. As for one of its demerits, some people complain of the need for continuous internet connection when using specific applications.

Windows, on the other hand, specifically Windows 8, is right there somewhere between iOS and Android. Sometimes it can

GETTING FAMILIAR WITH SMARTPHONE PLATFORMS by Dave Carter

be locked down, while it can also be available on a variety of handsets. It looks slick and is easy to use as well, although if there is a major beef about it, perhaps it’s the shortage of apps in the Windows 8 app market.

At the end of the day, your choice of platform will still depend on whether it meets your requirements and needs and it’s easy enough for you to use. Choosing a smartphone to get becomes easier once you’ve decided which platform truly floats your boat. For more information, you can do mobile plan comparison at Compare Mobile Plans to easily compare mobile plans.

Dave Carter is an independent consultant for small businesses and writes for http://www.comparemobileplans.com.au. A techie at heart, he’s up to speed with the latest releases and innovations in consumer technology, sharing his insights in language ordinary users can understand. He recommends that you check www.comparemobileplans.com.au site to easily compare mobile plans.

© uPublish.info




Safety tips will help keep children safe.

Provide children with clear guidelines to help keep them safe. It is important that children feel safe in their community – educate them on safety without scaring them. Talk to your children daily about what’s going on in their lives (for example, school, friends). This will strengthen your relationship. Explain that they should not keep secrets from you. Be sensitive to changes in your child’s mood and behaviour. Any of these may indicate that your child has a problem or a worry. Often children think that if they have done something wrong, or if they have broken a rule, that they cannot go to a parent. Make sure that your children are aware that they can come to you no matter what, and that you will listen. Adults need to understand that children break rules and make mistakes – we all do; it’s part of the learning process. It is important that you always know where your children are, who they are with, when they are coming back, and what they are doing at all times. It’s our job to keep them safe!

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN: • Their full name, address, area code and phone number, and also their parents’ names. • How to reach you at any time, or someone else they can call or go to for help (e.g., a trusted neighbour). Make a list of all important phone numbers, including police, the fire department, poison control center, your work and cell phone numbers, and the names and numbers of who they can call for help. Post this list near all your home phones.

• How to make a 911 emergency phone call from home and public phones.

• An escape plan, in case of fire or other emergencies, and how to work the door and window locks.

• To stay away from wooded areas, overgrown shrubbery, abandoned buildings, poorly lit areas, laneways, vacant lots,

TORONTO POLICE SERVICEA Guide To Keeping Our Children Safe

creeks and rivers. Take a walking tour of your neighbourhood. Know the route your child takes to school, to friends’ houses, etc. Make sure your child knows not to take shortcuts through alleys and parking lots. Remember, at any age it is always safer to walk with a buddy.

• Never to go into a public washroom by themselves – a responsible caregiver should always accompany children.

• How to use the bus/subway when they are ready. Do public transit training that includes where the bus stop is, the right bus to take, and how to read the direction signs in the subway station.

• That no one, not even someone they know, has the right to touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. Let them know that they have the right to say “NO” to any touch that makes them feel uncomfortable or in any situation where they are feeling threatened or in danger. Acknowledge that it might be too scary to say “no” and that’s okay – tell them to trust their feelings, and to tell an adult they trust about what happened, even if they couldn’t say no. Tell them to keep telling, until they get the help they need. TELL YOUR CHILDREN:

• To never accept anything from anyone unless they have permission from a parent or the person looking after them.

• Not to open the doors for anyone unless a parent is aware of the visit.

• When they are allowed to answer the phone (e.g., if the call display shows it is a parent, sibling, grandparent or neighbour) and what they should say.

• To stay calm if they become lost, and to find help from a store clerk, police officer or a mother with children, and to never go into a parking lot alone.

• To check in regularly with a parent or caregiver when they are not at home. If they want to change their after-school plans, or go from one place to another (e.g., from one friend’s house to someone else’s house), they are to call you first. Make sure your children understand to check in with you when they arrive at their destination.

• That you always need to know where they are going, including the address and telephone number.

• Never to get into anyone’s car or go anywhere with anyone – even with someone they know, unless a parent or caregiver has given permission.

• To check in with you or the caregiver when they get home. Establish rules for having friends over or going to someone else’s house. Wherever your children go, ask about supervision. Be sure that you know how to reach your children at any time.

• That if they are ever in a situation where they feel uncomfortable or unsafe, and want to be picked up right away, they can always call you, no matter what. Focus on the fact that they made the right choice by calling you, and that you hope if they are asked to go again, they will not go – tell them that if there is peer pressure to go, it’s okay to make an excuse to friends for why they can’t (e.g., they have to babysit younger siblings, there is a family gathering they must attend). o

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Recognizing a cold versus the flu

Reduce your water use on World Water Day

(NC) Cold and flu are often categorized together but the truth is they are different. Know the difference and assess your symptoms to best identify your illness and treat accordingly.

The main difference is that a cold is a mild infection of your nose and throat, whereas the flu is an infection of the airways and lungs.

According to Health Canada, common flu symptoms may include: cough, fever, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, headache, reduced appetite, runny nose and sometimes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms of a cold include runny nose, sneezing, cough and sore throat. With a cold, headache, fever, muscle aches or nausea are not common and good indicators that you likely have the flu.

Help deal with cold and flu by following these tips:

• Get a flu shot

• Keep Kleenex brand tissues handy for coughs and sneezes to help keep stuff off hands • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth • Wash hands often with soap • Keep commonly shared objects clean • If you are sick, stay home • Maintain a healthy lifestyle o

(NC)—Clean water and its availability for the future generation is not often a top concern for Canadians. We’re more concerned about saving on our hydro bills than taking shorter showers.

But according to the United Nations, two-thirds of the Earth’s population will lack adequate water supplies in 2025. It’s a fact that should make us sit up and take notice, especially since we literally cannot live without water. Per capita, Canadians are the second-biggest water consumers on the planet, behind Americans. We use approximately 335 litres per day, while 1.1 billion people worldwide must survive on a mere 5 litres.

This year, March 22 is World Water Day, a good moment to start making simple lifestyle changes to conserve the planet’s water supply, like these:

• Take a shower instead of a bath, and keep your showers short.

• Turn the faucet off while you brush your teeth, shave, or wash your face.

• Rinse dishes, vegetables, and fruits in a filled basin, rather than under running water.

• Replace an older toilet with a modern low-flush one.

• Install water-saver aerators on your faucets and water-saver heads on your shower.

• Go to a carwash that recycles its water.

• Encourage water conservation at the office.

• Resist buying bottled water. Instead, drink from the tap or bring a stainless steel water bottle to work that you can refill.

• Since water is a global resource, help underprivileged communities conserve their water too. Build a rainwater harvesting tank through an international development organization like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada. These tanks harvest, protect, and retain rainwater for daily use in places where drinking water is contaminated with bacteria and disease. o



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