LaVilla Bakery makes Christmas Special

Look at these cute pastries from the folks at LaVilla Bakery
They are made from marzipan and wonderful for eating or decorating your holiday table.

I surprised my husband with these when we dropped in for a sandwich the other day. The picture was taken with his cellphone camera so not so clear.

Drop by and check out all the holiday goodies yourself!

Christmas in Port Credit

The Village Tree Lighting took place Friday at St. Lawrence Square. Despite the chilly weather families turned out to enjoy the activities.

City Councillor Carmen Corbasson and her granddaughter, Summer Love flipped the switch that turned on all the beautiful LED lights.

The Patti Jannetta Band had a ball performing a Holiday sing-a-long and even brought along all kinds of instruments for the kids to use to accompany the singers.

The tree is spectacular! Take a trip down to the waterfront to see it.

Farewell Dave de Eyre -

I am very sad to pass along news of the passing of BIA member, Dave de Eyre who suffered a fatal heart attack on Tuesday, November 20th.

Dave was a very active community leader, the owner of Clifts Marine Sales and a member of the Southside Shuffle Blues and Jazz Festival Board of Directors. Dave was also a past Chairman of the BIA Board of Directors. He loved Port Credit and he made a difference.

As a BIA Chairman he made contributions too numerous to mention in this post but I can tell you that he has been credited in helping the Shuffle rise "to the next level" as a premier International event. While on the BIA board he was instrumental in having changes made to City policies with respect to parking issues and he helped initiate conversations with the Federal Government which will result in the relocation of the Post Office within the next two years.

His visitation and funeral this past weekend made me think of what a dignitary’s would be like. There was a line up to get into Skinner & Middlebrook Funeral Home Friday for the visitations and the First United Church was full to overflowing with folks standing in the aisles. The outburst of condolences from the community was overwhelming to his wonderful family.

Dave is survived by his beautiful wife, Maria and 3 incredibly talented sons, Michael, the musician; Christopher, the humanitarian and Steven, the law student. When the boys spoke at the funeral, there wasn’t a dry eye in the Church.

Dave loved to have fun and the family observed his wishes “to throw a great party” at the Mississauga Golf Club after the service. We stood shoulder to shoulder and reminisced about our friend, gone way to soon. He will be sorely missed.

Two Feet and a Heart Beat

I am diligently trying to walk to work since I can almost see the Lighthouse from where I lay my head down at night. You know with environmental and health benefits it is the right thing to do. Sometimes with errands to run and deliveries to make this is impossible but I’m trying.

Recently I learned that we humans need stimulation every 4 seconds or we get bored. Fortunately, a walk around the village offers that 4-second stimulation and then some. Tomorrow I will bring along the camera and share the stimuli.

We are very fortunate if we live in Port Credit and enjoy walking. Check out www.walkscore.com to find out why.

P.S. I will blog more, I will blog more, I will blog more!

Beggar's Blues Banquet tickets available

JUST IN !!!  Beggar’s Blues Banquet tickets !!!

 

“Singing for SickKids” on Thursday, September 6^th, 2007 starts at 7pm.  Johnny Max and Chuck Jackson singing non-stop for one hour for SickKids.  Featuring The Three Tenor Saxes and then the Beggar’s Blues Super Jam.   It will included dinner, all this for only $40 per person, cash only please.  It is at the Port Credit Legion, 35 Front St. N. and it is reserved setting.  Please give me a call at 905-271-8999 if you are interested as this event sells out early each year.  

 

Keep smiling :)

Lydia

 

Impressionable Gifts

74 Lakeshore Rd. E.

Miss, Ont.  L5G 1E1

905-271-8999

 

Call for Volunteers - Southside Shuffle #9

Calling all music lovers! Would you like an opportunity to combine your love of music with a chance to give back to your community, meet old and new friends, and experience being part of a great team? The Southside Shuffle is looking for volunteers for the weekend of September 7, 8 and 9.  Volunteers are needed to set up and tear down the festival, provide hospitality, sell merchandise, sell tickets, keep the peace, and much much more! What do you get in return?  Besides a good feeling, you will get: a cool t-shirt a weekend pass to the festival Access to Hospitality, which includes one meal per 6-hour shift; A discount on Southside Shuffle Merchandise An Invitation to a Volunteer Appreciation Party For an application form, or if you have any questions, contact:  Brenda Armstrong, Volunteer Co-ordinator  sssvolunteer@sympatico.ca  905-271-4247 / 647-237-4247 Hope to hear from you soon!

Sisters' Closing Sale

Sad to see the wonderful shop that claims “Every woman is a gift” and has a “gift for every woman” closing it’s doors but wish the sisters, Ann and Christine all the best as they move on to pursue other exciting adventures!   If you are in the market – 50% off display units and store merchandise!    Sisters 276 Lakeshore Road East Port Credit, Ontario L5G 1H1 905-278-5900

 

Canada Day - Port Credit Painted the Town Red

We certainly had a wonderful time in Port Credit on Canada Day. A giant cake cutting, entertainment for everyone, dancing until dark at Memorial Park and finally, a brilliant display of fireworks.

Thanks so much to Scott Proudfoot who passed along these photos. Awesome!

Swan Babies have arrived!

There has been so much excitement around the Lighthouse for the last 6 weeks or so. A nesting swan just under the bridge sat patiently waiting, rain or shine for her four little eggs to hatch. Sadly only two babies have survived - one born two days ago and one born yesterday. Here's a picture of them swimming around showing off. What a lovely family.

A view of the Waterfront Festival set-up.

Port Credit's going to be a "happenin' place" this weekend now that the 11th annual Mississauga Waterfront Festival is back in the newly-renovated Port Credit Memorial Park.

Here's my view of the park and the set-up that's taking place. Tom Cochrane is doing a sound check. Nice accompaniment for my lunch break.

Swoose and Mom

Thanks to Bird Bob for the picture of Baby chick Swoose - a new baby swan being raised by a goose. Swoose was abandoned as an egg and moved into the goose's nest. Hence, she has hatched and now thinks she's a goose.

Kinda like the Ugly Duckling story, don't you think?

Summer Events Kick Off

Last night the Lighthouse was hopping with media guests, local business people, volunteers and friends as the Port Credit Business Association welcomed in the summer with our annual kick-off party.

Over 200 people showed up to network and enjoy the camaraderie.



Angela Jordan, CTM Brochures with Garth from the Lighthouse Jazz Trio.

Pat Anderson, Mississauga Waterfront Festival Chair; Brenda McGarrell, PCBA Promotion Chair; Chuck Jackson, Southside Shuffle Artistic Director and Founder; John Bozzo, Paint the Town Red Chair and LaVilla Bakery owner - cutting an incredible chocolate cake with the summer events calendar as decoration.

Beatification Chair and owner of Impressionable Gifts, Lydia Ordonez-Niles, Nick Marcinkiewicz of Hiawatha Lawn Care and Marion Klinnert, PCBA Chair and owner of Private Moment Lingerie.

Noreen Lista (Old Credit Brewing Co.) Wendy Cliff and Eduardo Cordero from Axis Physiotherapy and Aldo Lista.

PCBA Vice Chair and Brogue Inn owner, Tommy Donnelly discussing the new www.portcredit.com site with designer Jesse Collins, Moxywebworks and local photographer Richard Miles ( SeeRichard's work on www.portcredit.com)

Gloria Kemp, Richards Chocolates, Deanna Insley, Skinner and Middlebrook Funeral Home and PCBA Director with Helen Goljak, realtor and member of the Mississauga Waterfront Festival board.
Southside Shuffle Chairman and local lawyer, Bruce Forth with Patti Jannetta, Artistic Director of the Mississauga Waterfront Festival.

Sephera Giron of the New Life Management Clinic with handsome husband Derrick Sullivan.

Friend of Port Credit, Debi Houghton - without her help the event would not have run so smoothly!

So Much Happening

Man, you can tell when I get busy - I don't find the time to post here. Well, that's gotta change!

As of tomorrow, June 12th, the new www.portcredit.com will be launched and live. It's a brand new look for the Port Credit website. According to website developer, Jesse Collins of Moxywebworks.com - it's cool, hip and yet still reflects Port Credit's history and heritage. Dead on, Jesse - the site is fantastic.

Thanks to many local photographers including Gene Wilburn, there are gorgeous images in the photo galleries. The site has been designed to be user-friendly with search bars so you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for - and quickly.

Events and activities are listed in easy to find format and news items are constantly scrolling on the front page. There's even a link for my blog. So I better get better at blogging, me thinks.

Check out this page at www.torontosun.com

From: info@portcredit.com

The person above has asked that we send you the following URL, as it
contains information that you might find useful or interesting.

http://torontosun.com/Money/2007/05/30/4219050-sun.html

Note that information on Toronto Sun is changed frequently.
In some sections, such as our newspapers, content is removed after 24 hours.

If you have any questions about this service, please send e-mail to:
webmaster@canoe.ca.

Thanks!
Toronto Sun
http://www.torontosun.com

FW: Krista Blondin Plays Port Credit

Friday May 4th, 2007
THE HARP PUB
9:30 start
55 Lakeshore Road East, Mississauga, 905-274-3277
www.theharppub.ca

________________
Krista Blondin Music

My Website: www.kristablondinband.com
My Blog: http://kristablondin.blogspot.com/

Business Development Breakfast on May 4th

Don’t miss the month Business Development Meetings held at the Crooked Cue on the first Friday of every month!

Friday, May 4^th

8-9am

The Crooked Cue

75 Lakeshore Rd. E

Plenty of free street parking (before 10am)

Join The Technology Coach, Scott Kendall as he shares information about how to “Tap into Technology” with emails, e-newsletters and blogs. Scott recently was rated “Best in the Conference” when he presented to the Provincial Business Association annual conference in Toronto. The breakfast meetings are open to everyone and cost only $5.00 per person at the door.

Stl James School Art Show, May 5th

St. James school located at 98 Wanita Road in Port Credit is hosting an art
fusion show and sale. We will be featuring over 40 artisans and vendors who
will be sharing their diverse talents from not only thier multicultural
backgrounds but also some have developmental challenges. There will be live
music throughout the show, live plants just in time for the planting season,
record your own CD using state of the art equiptment as well as a chance to
leave your artistic thumbprint on our community canvas that will be donated
by Loomis. Some proceeds for the show are going directly to The Compass Food
Bank located at Lakeshore and Benson. Admission is $2.00 for adults and
$1.00 for children 12 and under.

Special Event at River Coyote Gallery

River Coyote Gallery located at 53 Lakeshore Rd. E. is hosting a very
special exhibit.

Hello:

Would like to invite you to a very unique event we are hosting at the
gallery.

This 2 day "Trunk Show" is a special opportunity to see works by over 30
artists not regularly represented in the gallery.

The collection is comprised of over 150 original works ranging in style from
abstract to representational.

Hope you will be able to join us on either Friday May 11 5-9pm or Saturday
May 12 from noon-5pm.

I have attached an invitation, please call me if you would like more
information and feel free to bring a friend.

Look forward to seeing you.

Don Bell
Director - River Coyote Gallery
(905) 278-3337
www.rivercoyote.ca

Local House Tour Event

 

Jewels For Jesus Mission and Adoption Agency is pleased to invite you to our 1st "Breath of Life" Mississauga Spring Home Tour. 

 

Date:                Saturday, April 28th, 2007

Time:                9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Admission:        $20.00 per person

 

This is a self-guided tour of four special and unique properties in Mississauga.

 

For a copy of the brochure and greater details, you may call the Jewels office at 905-821-7494 or go the events section of our website at www.JewelsForJesus.net.

 

Tickets may be purchased at the Jewels office at 6655 Kitimat Road, Unit 5, at Kitchens By Design at 147 Lakeshore Rd. East, at TLC's Therapeutic Massage and Beauty Spa at 15 Mississauga Rd. S. or at Welcome Aboard Photography at 1715 Lakeshore Rd. W.

 

For more information, e-mail karen.k@JewelsForJesus.net or call the Jewels office.

 

LOBSTER FEST TIME AGAIN

ALL YOU CAN EAT LOBSTER AND CHICKEN
date:   June 2nd. sat.
time    cocktails 4:30 and the Dinner --6:30
place  St. John's Hall --2185 Stavebank
cost    $75.00 a person with tax receivable
For tickets contact Shirleybray1@yahoo.ca

 

Janis Joplin at Southside Shuffle

Have a look at local celeb, Krista Blondin’s blog for some Shuffle news!

 

Hooray-Janis Show returns to PC Southside Shuffle Main Stage!
By Krista Blondin(Krista Blondin)
I am very excited to announce my Tribute To Janis Joplin will be performing on the Main Stage at Port Credit's Southside Shuffle Jazz & Blues Festival this year! This is where we launched the first show in 2003. ...
Krista Blondin's Blog - http://kristablondin.blogspot.com/index.html

Canada Day Fireworks!

They’re happening! This July 1^st there will be fireworks in Port Credit Memorial Park. A dedicated group of local business owners have put determination behind their desire and have gone out and raised funds to make this happen.

Congratulations to John Bozzo from LaVilla Fine Foods and Bakery, Jackie Smith and Luci Tait from Roundabout Kids and the rest of the committee including Eunice Luis of Portlington Financial, Max Letham of Nova Promotional Products, Sandy Smale from the Lakeshore Corridor Community Team and Diane Goldsmith from the Southside Shuffle Blues and Jazz Festival. Also on the committee - Peter Whitaker from Beachcomber Hot Tubs, John Pappas from the Crooked Cue and David Timms, community volunteer.

Watch for new developments with the big day – Canada Day – Paint the Town Red in Port Credit. http://www.paintthetownred.ca/ for information.

Commuters on the Go Train

I’ve been given the heads-up on the huge number of commuters who travel through the Port Credit Go Train Station everyday.

Port Credit Go Station is the busiest on the Lakeshore Corridor next to Union...over 8000 people a day pass thru our Station The Lakeshore Corridor has over 150,000 commuters pass by Port Credit Go Train Station on a daily basis ...this does not include the VIA rail passengers Over 300 parking spots are used daily in the Port Credit Go Transit lots. Mississauga Transit drops off 2,000-plus people daily at PC GO The park and ride facility is the busiest along the Lakeshore Corridor! Thank you to Sean Kinsella of Atlas Outdoor Advertising 17 Callender Street Toronto Ontario M6R 2H2 416 823 9725 atlasadvertising@excite.com Contact Sean if you would like to take advantage of advertising to this enormous market.

A Sensual Visit to Shazam!

Yesterday I was invited to drop in and meet with the owners and staff of the newly-relocated-to-Port Credit Hair Studio, Shazam. Little did I expect that all five of my senses would be challenged!

Sight - the newly renovated space at 106 Lakeshore Road East is beautiful. Appealing to both men and women, the space is clean, modern and well furnished with comfy leather chairs and top of the line equipment.

Taste - staff offered me delicious coffee and teas and yes, I was there long enough to enjoy both. A plate of ginger snaps and European chocolate too, mmmmhhhhh.

Sound - perfect mix of tunes playing. No birds and waterfall stuff and not club music either.

After a conversation about the history of Shazam Hair Studio (they come to Port Credit by way of Lorne Park and one of the big malls) and news of the day-to-day business of the village I was ready to leave and let them get on with clients.

The gorgeous, Sam asked me if I could stay and allow him to offer me a scalp treatment and massage. Well, how could I say no to that?!

Smell - yum, citrus and camphor. An aromatherapy experience at the same time.

Touch - definitely the best head massage I have ever experience. No rush job either - thank you Sam.

After this wonderful treatment my head was wrapped and I was left to relax under the dryer with a steamy cup of tropical green tea. Meditation or as close as I'll ever get to it, I think.

Sam offered some ideas on my hairstyle and after a new cut and styling, I left Shazam with a brand new look and a skip in my step.

Do drop in to Shazam Hair Studio. Owner Shazam and wife Stacey plus their wonderful staff members (Sam, Sass, Tess, Anthony, Deborah and Amy) would be pleased to show you around. And to Sam, hugs. www.shazamhair.com 905.271.0440

Too long quiet.....

Yes, I'm still here although the combination of March break time-off and bronchitis have distracted me from blogging.

Life as usual in Port Credit continues and with spring finally in the air the folks are coming out of their cocoons. Foot traffic through town is brisk. The Waterfront Trail is full of walkers, runners, roller bladers and cyclists. About time.

Mmmmmm......Marish's Boulangerie

I'll admit to not doing much shopping lately (the after-Christmas hiatus) but I certainly have realized by blogging how much I enjoy our local eateries.

My DH and I just enjoyed a wonderful steaming hot bowl of Muligatawny soup at Marish's Boulangerie. But we didn't stop there, we ordered one of Marish's butter tarts with coffee.

I honestly believe, truly, that these are the very best butter tarts in the entire world! Owner Mary and her talented staff only use the finest ingredients and real butter in all their baking and cooking.

You can also enjoy delicous Indian cuisine at Marish's. Mary fell in love with all things Indian when she and friend Valerie Cite had the honour of being selected to teach European cooking and baking at one of the finest hotels in India. Now Mary has the wonderful Indian chef, Michelle in every weekend cooking up all sorts of delicacies. The freezer is always well stocked if you don't get in on the weekend. Maybe I'll see you there.

Port Credit Business Association Annual General Meeting and New Budget

Last night the members of the Port Credit Business Association ratified the proposed budget for 2007 programs.

Sadly, only a small number (very small number) of the over 500 eligible voters turned out. (Does that mean they're happy?) I'm never quite sure if apathy is a good or bad thing.

The board presented a budget of $313,015.00 to promote and beautify Port Credit. The membership voted an additional $10,000.00 for Canada Day fireworks bringing the final budget to $323,015.00.

It's wonderful how local business owners voluntarily tax themselves to invest in the community. I'm sure many people think the flowers, banners, festivals, free-parking in December, networking events, street cleaning and streetscape are all provided by the City of Mississauga - NOT!

The business owners in the village of Port Credit provide all these things and much more to make the village a good place to live, work, play and do business. I think they're doing a good job. Don't you?

The Planet Rocks

Planet Organic Market opened the doors last week and I have to tell you - it's changing the way I eat. I was mesmerized by all the unusual products as I wandered up and down the aisles of the new market checking out brands quite foreign to me - I haven't shopped in this type of market before. Fortunately the friendly staff were standing by to answer every crazy question I came up with.

Since opening day I have made two trips in in to Planet Organic Market and come out with things like juniper berries (for cleansing), supplements, teas (lots), organic veggies, presents (yes, even presents)and organic potato chips (does that mean they're not fattening? )

I proudly bought a big, red tote bag bearing the Planet Organic logo and slogan -

Our additives:water, sunlight, air, soil.

Don't miss the health and beauty section ably run by Ireny with well-qualified experts like life coach Janet Auty Carlisle. It's chock full of lotions, oils, creams, make-up, fragrance, soaps, ....you get the picture.

Planet Organic Market is a fascinating place to visit and a wonderful addition to the unique shopping village of Port Credit.

Hooked on Hooks

It's going to seem like I spend a lot of time in restaurants but last week was special with V-Day and my husband's birthday. Friday night we dined at Hooks, the coolest little cajun-inspired eatery in the City. I asked Chef-owner Brad to surprise me instead of ordering off the menu. My server, Janice was a bit surprised but you know, it's kinda like having dinner at a friend's house - you never know what's on the menu but you're grateful to get fed.

My appie was escargot - a dish I never order. I generally leave snails and mussels to my family members who think they're to die for. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it. Garlicky oil for dipping the bread into. mmmmmm

Pickeral, with pecans, rice and beets (I LOVE beets) came as my entree. It was fantastic. The wine was flowing, the conversation too. My son brought along his gorgeous new girlfriend for a first meeting. He's been trying to keep us away from her so we don't ruin his chances, hehe.

We weren't quite ready to go home so we popped in to the Ridgetown Restaurant and Bar to enjoy "Cosy, Comfy Thursday" with Chuck Jackson. The Ridgetown is now serving Fondue on Thursdays for two at $30. I'm looking forward to going back for that. There is absolutely no question - we have the best restaurants in the City right here in Port Credit!!

Gears 24-Hour Spin

What started out as a 6-hour spin fundraiser is now a major event that has raised over $3 million dollars and created the Betty Wallace Women's Health Centre.

The event is a fascinating blend of fitness, fundraising, music and entertainment. Participants will include everyone from elite athletes to those who just want to make a difference when it comes to breast cancer and women’s health care. www.grears24hourspin.com

I Love Thyme Ristorante

I enjoyed a special lunch today with my junior valentine - my son. One of his favourite dishes in Port Credit is the Zuppa de Pesce (Seafood Soup) served at Thyme Ristorante. I ordered a delicious bowl of Cream of Lentil soup and we shared a thin crust Thyme Pizza. We even had enough left over for a snack for him while he cooks up dinner for his real valentine.

Harbourlicious at Lake Affect Patio Bar

My dh (darling husband) and I enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Lake Affect Patio Bar & Grill last night. We were in early and had a chance to chat with owner, Bill Gordon.

Bill is a entrepreneur-extraodinaire and was telling us that his wife, Maureen is taking over the top management position at the restaurant. He told us this was a way for Maureen to "slow down". That gives you an indication of how busy this dynamic couple are, eh?

Lake Affect has a brand new menu and a special fixed price 3-course dinner but Dave and I went for one of the daily specials off the blackboard and enjoyed a delicious half-rack of ribs each. I splurged (again) and finished off with a delectable piece of pecan cheesecake.

Lake Affect has a special valentine dinner planned for tomorrow and are booking comedy shows every Wednesday at 8pm. Call 905.278.8223 for all the details.

Disco Beatrice

Here's a picture of Beatrice Moreira, the Port Credit Business Development Coordinator who won the prize for "Best Female" . Her big faux fur coat added to the look but she's still got the look.

Best Disco Couple at Saturday Night Fever

Here's a picture of Tonya & Jason, the best-dressed couple (thanks Lydia for sending it along)!

Saturday Night Fever

It was Disco Fever on Saturday the 10th at Port Credit Legion. The hall was full of seventies-fans of all ages and they boogied all night long to the sound fantastic of Disco Inferno. The event was a sell-out and sure to be back next February when we need a little excitement. I wish I had more pictures to share.

The group shot captures some of the organizing crew. And if you look closely at the dance floor you can see the best-dressed couple, Tonya and Jason in the sparkly disco clothes. They were great dancers too!

The event was part of the Harbourlicious event taking place in Port Credit right through to St. Patrick's Day. Check www.portcredit.com/events for details about the delicious fixed price menus and live entertainment to help you "Catch the Fever".

February Business Development Breakfast

We probably had our largest group ever out at the February BDB. Vic Rempel of the www.wearemississauga.com site shared statistics and reasons why businesses today have to look into internet advertising in addition to what they are already doing.

• 17 million Canadians are connected to the Internet and they go online for an average of 2 hours per day.
• 80 million searches are conducted ech day in and effort to find local businesses, products and services.
• People are turning to the internet before the yellow pages for business referrals.
• Search engine marketing is expected to grow from $1.6 billion in 2003 to $8 billion in 2008.

Vic recommended using local search engines for better exposure. He also recommended a free internet seminar on March 3rd - info can be found at www.wearemississauga.com.

We are planning to follow up the "Tapping into Technology" theme at the March BDB where Scott Kendall, Technology Coach will be speaking.

The BDB's are held the first Thursday of each month, 8am at the Brogue Inn. Do join us. $5.00 at the door - all are welcome.

Feed the Planet

They're almost open!

Planet Organic is moving into 170 Lakeshore Rd. E. in the location of that other healthy supermarket that we all miss. The "soft" opening date is Valentines Day but a grand opening is planned for March 4th.

According to the website Planet Organic was founded and began selling natural & organic food for three reasons:

-to contribute to the personal well being of our customers;
-to protect the health of the Earth;
-and to make eating a robust and joyful event.

Look for me on Valentines Day in the line-up!

Planet Organic details:

Phone: (905) 271-0785Fax: (905) 271-9433
Open 7 days a week with lots of free parking!

Monday - Friday: 9 am to 9 pmSaturday & Sunday: 9 am to 7 pm

Can't say no to Natty's!

I had resolved to stay hunkered down this weekend to catch up on some much needed rest and attempt to get over a lingering cold and I did spend most of the weekend doing two of my favourite things - surfing the web and knitting. I've learned I can do both at the same time!

My resolve was broken by an invitation from friends to join them at Natty's Bar and Grill (Lakeshore and Mississauga Road intersection) for a bite to eat. I just couldn't resist the thought of the homestyle cooking and laid-back atmosphere of the place. I indulged in the Saturday night special - 1/2 rack of ribs, wings and fries at only $10.00. Pure comfort food!

Bartender, Jack (I think he might be Natty's brother?) was very attentive and took good care of us. The guys enjoyed watching the game on a GIANT screen TV while my gal pal and I chatted about everything. Natty's is a great place for family dining and welcomes kids. The food is great, the price is very right and Natty is a fantastic lady. (Gorgeous too!) Check it out.

Chantal Kreviazuk coming to Port Credit!

You are one of the first to know......................I just had a very excited phone call from Pat Anderson, the Chair of the Mississauga Waterfront Festival with the best news!

Chantal Kreviazuk, Canadian recording star, has confirmed her appearance on Saturday, June 16th on the Festival's main stage. Can't wait!

Crystal Power

Love attraction, negative influence protection, clear mind thinking, and more. These are all features you can benefit from by possessing Crystals.

I attended the first in a series of "Learn Something New" nights at Ladybug Harbor, 189 Lakeshore Rd. E. Owner Martha Sheppard shared her insights with a group of us who's knowledge ranged from "next to nothing" (me) to very, very well-versed. It was a fun, interesting evening, sipping herbal tea and absorbing all kinds of new ideas about these beautiful natural objects. A perfect way to spend a cold, Port Credit evening.

Martha plans to run monthly educational evenings with local experts on all manner of topics. Contact Martha for more info if you'd like to join us. martha@ladybugharbor.com

Picture Perfect Port Credit

I'm a bit buried under work today to do much blogging.............but this link to a photo group on flickr showed up on my Goggle Alerts for Port Credit that's worth having a look at. Why not put the series on a slide show and challenge yourself to identify where each photo was taken. (I haven't had time to do the whole file but did try a couple of loops).

www.flickr.com/groups/port_credit/pool/

We have some very talented photographers in the community!

Back from Niagara Falls

Well, I've been away the last two days participating in the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association board meeting. I met with BIA staff and business owners from across the province in Niagara Falls. Represented were BIA's including Ottawa, Chatham, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, St. Catharines, North Bay, Oakville, Toronto, Collingwood and of course Port Credit.

We were well taken care of by the Niagara BIA's and given a tour of the town including a trip up the Skylon to view the City at night, fantastic accomodation at the Fallsview Hilton and great food. Dinner on our own was at Wolfgang Puck's restaurant (almost as good as Port Credit's restaurants) and I even won $11.00 at the Fallsview Casino.

It was a great opportunity to share ideas with my counterparts across the province, and as always, do a little comparing of notes. One of the areas up for discussion was the lack of clear statistics about how much a BIA impacts the neighbourhood property values. I think in the case of Port Credit, the streetscape and improvements, along with the sense of community created by the events and happenings have definitely factored into the high property values both residentially and commercially. Hopefully our residents who benefit will support their local merchants. I always say no one wants their yard backing onto a big box store but everyone wants to live in the village. Think globally, shop locally!

Euchre at The Regency

It was fun and games on Saturday the 20th at The Regency Retirement Residence (RRR) when staff opened the doors to the community for a charity card night. Over 70 of us joined in for a great evening of camaraderie and competition to raise money for Lakeshore Corridor Community Team.

Although I haven't played much Euchre these last few years, my rotating partners and table mates didn't seem to mind. I got a chance to meet Joni Cursio the new General Manager of the RRR on Mississauga Road. Joni was delighted to have so many visitors and has offered the use of the facility to community groups looking for a meeting place. Thanks Joni!

Catch the Fever at Harbourlicious!

From February 1st to March 17th Port Credit is hot with special events and savings at our local eateries and pubs. We boast that Port Credit really is Mississauga's Dining and Entertainment District and we've got the action to back up that claim.

During the 61/2 weeks of Harbourlicious many of our best restaurants will be offering a 3-course Fixed Price Menu. But there's more..................................

Every Monday:
Ten Restaurant & Wine Bar offers "Corkless Mondays" and pays the corkage.

Every Wednesday:
Jawbone "The Delta Daredevils" featuring Kelly Davies on guitar, 8-11pm at Pump House Grille.
Sizzling Steak Night featuring live acoustic entertainment at ten Restaurant & Wine Bar.
Live Comedy Central at Lake Affects Patio Bar and Grill.

Every Thursday:
Comfy Cosy Night at Ridgetown, hot wine, cheese fondues and the Blues and Jazz tunes of Chuck Jackson.

Every Friday:
Live entertainment at Snug Harbour.

Every Saturday:
Live entertainment at Ridgetown and Snug Harbour.
Maple Leaf hockey tickets to be won at the Crooked Cue.

Feb. 1:
Australian Wine & Dine at Breakwater Restaurant.

Feb 3:
Caribbean Night at Snug Harbour.

Feb. 10:
Saturday Night Fever featuring Disco Inferno 70's Show Band. Show, DJ and Dancing at the Port Credit Legion. Ticket price only $20.00. Partial proceeds to Lakeshore Corridor Community Team - call 905.601.3518 for tickets.

Feb 14:
Love is definitely in the air in Port Credit. Book your valentine reservations, buy your flowers, chocolates and lingerie only in the village! Why not stay overnight at The Waterside Inn? From the 10th to the 17th there will be special valentine menus at all restaurants.

Feb 18:
VON Chocolate Lovers Brunch at The Waterside Inn.

Feb 23 - 24:
Mardi Gras at The Brogue Inn, The Crooked Cue and Lake Affect Patio Bar & Grill

March 10:
Catch the Fever Finale - Enjoy the best of the 60's, 70's & 80's at each of the participating restaurants.

March 17:
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations at selected restaurants.

And apparently this is just a small selection of the number of events happening! All of the details will be appearing shortly on http://www.discoverportcredit.com/. Special thanks to FRAM Building Group. Slokker Real Estate Group and Brenda Gilligan from ReMax Realty Enterprises for sponsoring this great line-up of events.

Who says there's nothing to do in the winter?

Port Credit's Kevin Wallace receives Ontario Medal of Good Citizenship

"Kevin Wallace has been awarded the Ontario Medal of Good Citizenship. The nomination process is extremely lengthy and they receive hundreds of applications. Personal information was collected under the authority of the Ministry of Citizenship and Culture and a decision was made based on this information. He will be awarded the medal at Queen’s Park on Thursday, January 25th at 10:30 am in the main lobby of the Legislative Building. The Honourable James Bartleman will be there to award the medals."

I received this good news in an email from local realtor, Rosemarie Wallace who also happens to be Kevin's wife. I've worked on a committee with Rosemarie and she's just as dedicated to the community as her good husband who began the Gears 24 Hour Spin Event that has raised enough money to build the Betty Wallace Health Centre.

Rosemarie went on to tell me, "The centre was opened in memory of Kevin Wallace’s mom Betty, a mother who lived courageously with breast cancer and passed away 12 years ago. It is because of her and many other amazing moms that we were instilled with our moral fabric and ability to care. We are forever in debt to give back for everything our mom’s have provided us. The idea of the centre is to create a place where the females in our lives no longer have to feel lost, confused or scared, waiting for appointments, and results, over an extended period of time, when they are diagnosed with Breast Cancer".

The 24 Hour Spin event will be taking place at the Hershey Centre. The kick off is at 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16th and goes till 10:00pm on Sat. 17th. All monies raised goes directly to the Trillium Hospital, specifically the Betty Wallace Womens Health Centre. From personal experience I can tell you that participating in this incredible event can be life-changing.

Complete details can be gained via Gears Bike Shop or at http://gearsbikeshop.com/24hrspin

Civic Recognition

Last night at City Hall, Mississauga citizens were recognized for their volunteer efforts on behalf of City Hall. Along with citizen members of many committees including Heritage, Adjustments, Cycling and others, the out-going board of the Port Credit Business Association received their recognition. Now this just means a certificate and a photo with the Mayor but it's really important to recognize the hard-working individuals who give up their "down time" unselfishly to make our home a better place to live, work and play.

The BIA board spends over 500 collective hours at board meetings. Additionally the special committees clock in about 300 hours. The Chair, Marion Klinnert, dedicates approximately 100 hours interacting with staff, 10 hours answering inquiries from the community and 25 hours meeting with suppliers, ad execs and the like. The Beautification Chair, Lydia Ordonez-Niles probably spends close to 75 hours dealing with contractors, reading tenders and reports and personally inspecting the Lakeshore. And there are more committees adding in many more hours.

BTW, those certificates are proudly displayed in their places of business so next time you see one - say "Thanks".

Hmmmmmm...Burrito Boyz

I have just finished a delicous lunch at my desk. A cheese and bean burrito from Port Credit's newest eatery, Burrito Boyz. The third location and the first one in Mississauga - Burrito Boyz has taken up shop at 9 Stavebank Road North. Owner Robin Dooley has been busy since she opened the doors in November and the neighbours have been buzzing about it. My office sidekick, Beatrice and I finally experienced the offerings and we're giving the place four thumbs up! Burrito Boyz does take-out and catering and you can reach Robin and her staff at 905.891.2699.

Balance

January is a very busy time at the Lighthouse - meetings with every media partner with ideas for our advertising strategy; pitches from all the groups sponsored by the BIA for more financial support; budget planning; preparation for the City's audit and so on. We also have to make sure our data base is 100% correct since the new Port Credit Directory is going to print imminently. It can get quite hectic!

I took a little time out for some "me time" though. Thursday night I had a fantastic massage with Certified Natural Health Practitioner, Mieke Bosscher. Mieke's treatments feel like a combination of physical therapy and relaxation massage. She devotes herself to finding out what needs attention whether it's a tight spot or a congested head. Mieke practices at The Lakeside Natural Health Centre on Elmwood Avenue along with a number of Natural Health Practioners and Therapists. Thanks Mieke!

Community Journalism

Anita Albanese, one of my contacts at the Mississauga News passed along this great opportunity to get your story "out there":

The Mississauga News has a great new feature called "My community, my Space" that is part of the People section in The Mississauga News and published 3 times per week. Here it how it works - a businessowner and/or resident can write a story (no longer than 500 words) about something that is special to them (their business, a special family member, friend, charitable work, why they love their community etc) and send a long a photo. The story and photo have a very good chance of being published in The News.

Please send your submission to:
Judy Imerson, Editor
email: jimerson@istar.ca

Thanks, Anita. What a great opportunity..........now what shall I write about?

Join the Port Credit Work Force

Long Legs Fashions is actively seeking part time help for daytime hours. Interested? You can find all the information online at www.longlegs.ca under the Careers section.

I Stand Corrected

It's great to know that someone is reading my blog. Days back I commented on a few new vacancies in the area and that the retail industry is bit soft. Well, thanks to Craig Dick, the fabulous owner of hannah b footwear & accessory I now know that his business was up, way up in sales from last year. Congratulations, Craig - you certainly have all the right ingredients for success. A cool shop filled with very fashionable merchandise. A great attitude, exceptional customer service and always a big supporter of everything that goes on in Port Credit.

Craig and his staff get "right into" every event that takes place in the village. In fact, during the Southside Shuffle Blues and Jazz Festival, Craig played music by Blood, Sweat and Tears to coincide with David Clayton Thomas headlining the festival. Creative, very creative. If you haven't checked out hannah b, you are really missing something.

White Light Contest Winners

The following is the report I receive each year from our esteemed White Lights contest judge, Brenda McGarrell of Brett Creative Planning. Brenda takes on the time-consuming task of viewing all the window displays in the Port Credit, looking for the best of the best. The only criteria for the merchants who partipate is that they must use white mini lights. Here's what Brenda had to say:

"I was happy to read I had until December 30th to complete my selections. It allowed me to revisit the 'strip' many times thru the season to monitor how the windows were 'lighting' up. There was no running theme this year....each participant in the White Lights Contest had a very individual approach. I enjoyed the uniqueness of each display which made my decision difficult.

This year some new names come to the forefront....Ric's Recollections -Records & CD's proved that even a small window can be very effective using hanging star lights adorned with ribbon trims & a lighted garland around the window; Glow Salon & Skincare - using a white lighted single Christmas tree centred in the front of the window proved very effective. Forever Young Aesthetics using gauze drapes hung as if in a Living Room with 2 large white lit wreaths hung in front. Pearl Bridal House using the simplicity of perimeter white lit garlands with large hanging silver balls surrounding a single white shimmering gown.
This time as well I observed stores who consistently changed their annual contribution which I congratulate them for taking that extra effort.... Gitta's Needlepoint this year using large wide green ribbons trailed with ribbon lights down the sides using hanging lights in front of this backdrop for a festive display. Stavebank Florist this year using a long mirror on the side wall to reflect the image of the white lit Christmas tree which added depth & drama to their display. Private Moments Lingerie - a dramatic display using white gauze garland lit up with white lights, a 'snow covered' effect on the floor with large white boxes wrapped in red ribbons. Tumi Crafts using green white lit garlands and red bows.

Special mention and Thank you to The Fram Group and St. Lawrence Square for their spectacular extensive use of exterior white and coloured lit trees; a most enjoyable addition to 'dress up' our Town for the Season.

So, now the drum role for the winners..........
1st place belongs to: Modern Hairstyling - this year using green garland with white lights around the perimeter, using twinkling lights across the lower window all of which encircling the most spectacular red lit wreath hanging in the centre of the display adorned with a white lit bow. Very dramatic in its simplicity.
2nd place belongs to: Hickcox Fine Jewellery - this year using 3 cylindrical shimmering cones backdropped with silvery wide bands of gauze ribbon hung with stars and lit garland & using silver & red accessories - stunning (Not to forget as well, their 2 exterior planters with white lit trees in each)
3rd place belongs to: Impressionable Gifts using different garlands with white gauze in the background and sparkle lit green garland in the foreground, hanging lit snowflakes and accessories and effective use of white spot lights for a very White Light window display.

Rare and Special Guests on the River

I received an email today from local life coach and soulpreneur, Janet Auty-Carlisle letting me know that she's spotted some special guests in Port Credit. Janet says:

"On my daily walks I have made a great discovery. The harbour harbours five important visitors! Piqued your interest yet? Check it out. There are two pair of trumpeter swans and a young one that hang out with the rest of the gang at the river. I don't know if you know this but trumpeter swans are an endangered species and they are pretty rare to see. This is not their usual habitat. Three of the four are tagged and you can get more info from the Wye Marsh conservation site if you wish! We are most definitely a destination point for rare and special guests! AND on another note, I go by the lighthouse almost everyday. Don't know if you even see passersby but I always look over and smile just in case :) Stay well. Much love, Jan"

I'll be keeping my eyes open for these special guests as well as Janet on her morning walks!