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Contents 1. Cover: Summer Games 2014 is coming… stay tuned for details!

2. Contents Page

3. President’s Message

4. G.O.A and Canorient Merger Update

5. New years Gala – Start for 2014! By Fiona Pinto-De Souza

6. G.O.A. Anniversary Dance – Step into Spring!

7. Jumping in the Blender! By Taran Sousa

8. Ancestors Trail Hike – Take a Walk Back in Time

9. Ambitious Youth – Career Fair Highlights | By Abel Nunes

10. Players Wanted - Join the Goan Soccer League

11. G.O.A. Awards

12. Sign Up for the Bike Tour!

13. NEW! G.O.A. Membership Discounts on Hotels, Travel and much more!

14. Family Activities – Oh the Fun! By Joyce DeSousa

15. TFC Members Only Promotion

16. St. Francis Xavier Feast – A Walk Through the Villages! By Fiona Pinto-De Souza

17. Join the G.O.A. Cubs!

18. Summer Games 2014

19. Chill & Chat – Come Out and Meet New People!

20. G.O.A. Property Update – By Darrel Carvalho

21. Notices of the G.O.A and the G.C.O.

22. General Information

23. Membership Application

Stay Current: Like us on Facebook | facebook.com/goatoronto and visit GOAToronto.com for more information, news and events

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President’s 2013 was a year of accomplishment, making great strides in developing new and innovative programs. None of these achievements would have been possible without G.O.A. members actively participating in the events, and volunteering their time to make it happen. This partnership between the G.O.A. and its members is the key to our growth in the coming years. Some of the highlights for 2013 were the Canji Kulchi Codi Ani Bombil luncheon, Children’s’ Christmas Tree Party, St. Francis Xavier Feast (record numbers in attendance) and New Year’s Eve Gala Dance (sold out 1 month in advance) to name a few. All of these events were sold out. Another victory for the Association was the recapturing of the youth and young adult community. By offering events targeted to specific age groups, we were able to engage our young Goans and foster a renewed interest in the G.O.A. We are currently working in partnership with young Goan leaders to create a program of events for their age groups, allowing them to meet frequently in an informal setting. If you are a young Goan, look out for more events in the coming months. In the October issue of the Pulse, we mentioned discussions related to a proposed merger with the Canorient Association as well as new signage alongside Konkan Delite in Mississauga. Discussions are continuing positively, and we will provide an overview to the membership by the next Annual General Body Meeting. We look forward to the upcoming year, and the Executive Team is energized and excited about the activities planned for 2014. Visit the G.O.A. website at www.goatoronto.com for the calendar of events or get up-to-date info by ‘liking’ us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/goatoronto. Our Association is growing stronger every day, as we stay focused on our mission - We are Goans for Goans, giving back to the community. Happy New Year Everyone! Velda J.M. Abreu President, Goan Overseas Association

Message

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New Years Gala Start for 2014! By Fiona Pinto-De Souza December 31st, 2013 - The annual GOA New Year’s Eve Gala was a sold out event 3 weeks before the dance! It was held at the beautifully renovated Claireport Banquet hall with over 500 guests in attendance. There were a large number of out-of-town guests from Australia, the UK, and the USA and from out-of-Province. The attendees were welcomed by William Fernandes who tickled the ivories on the grand piano; a touch of class to start the night off. The décor of the hall gave a wow factor as one entered the hall and was breathtaking with large candelabras and lighting, set the mood for a night to remember. The Goan Overseas Association has a mandate to bring back the youth to the community…

It was heartwarming to see the number of young adults at the gala having a wonderful time and meeting new friends. There was a great mix of the ages in the hall and the band Blind Fold Test catered to the young and the not-so-young, while Denis Pereira the Emcee keeping everyone abreast of the programme. Velda Abreu, President gave a heart-warming speech, reminiscent of her late father, Victor Abreu, and her mother Vera. Terence Pereira led us in grace and Claireport went the extra mile with the ambiance, the super-delicious 4 course sit down meal that included a seafood platter, and the midnight champagne and crepe and waffle station. They provided fireworks; countdown clocks, dry ice and special lighting effects to bring in the New Year.

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Jumping In G.O.A Mixer’s have been existing for quite some time now. I had been invited to a couple events but always pulled the line that a lot of us tend to resort to saying. “Yeah, you know what I will think about it, I might be free that day”. That day arrives and we all miraculously have some nephew’s Christening, or a best friend forever’s birthday to attend to. Meanwhile, we just didn’t want to put the time, effort and money into going to an event where the majority of people will be unknown to us. Anxiety may come into play as well. We live in a world where being comfortable is what many people tend to embrace more than going out of their comfort zone. So why would I go to an event where I don’t know anyone? Another G.O.A mixer was scheduled, and this time I decided to smash down my comfort wall and crawl through the hole. After a little struggle, there I was at the bar. I decided to arrive at about 10 minutes after the scheduled start. There were only about seven or eight people. The Facebook event stated that about 50+ were expected to attend. I figured it was the “Goan Standard Time” kicking in. For those who don’t know what that is, are you really Goan? An hour and more went by, more people showed up. There were people for the event and people who just decided to go to that bar to enjoy their night. At this point, the vibe was really turned up as the drinks started to settle in and the music got louder and bumpier. I noticed people all over, including myself conversing and yapping away. Some were even on the dance floor, jiving, fist pumping and even gang naming. Most importantly, everyone had a smile on their face, and eyes. A lot of new faces, young

and younger, entered my memory that night, although their names were a lot harder to hold on to. That would be why Facebook/social media exists. Every now and then, I keep in touch with those faces. It was great to see some of them again at the next mixer, where newer faces arrived and further fun was there to be had. The organizing committee did a fantastic job at putting together 2 enjoyable events at classy locations where drinking your favorite drinks didn’t put a major dent in your wallet. The music was a nice mixture of the popular songs of the past couple decades which meant there was never a silent moment. The way I see it, it is you who decides how entertaining you want your night to be. The setting is organized for you. People will be there to experience you. You have to put in the effort to have an awesome night. You have to be willing to smash down your comfort zone. Put yourself out there, make new friends, have a blast!

The Blender By Taran Sousa

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Ambitious Youth Career Fair

The G.O.A., in collaboration with the Canorient Association and the Manglorean Association of Canada, jointly hosted this event on February 9th 2014, at the Vic Johnson Community Centre. The event started at 12 noon sharp and was well attended by approximately a hundred youth. After Velda’s opening comments and the introduction of the committee (Abel Nunes, Stephanie Tavares, Gavin DaCosta, Leo DaCunha, Samson Soans, Clare Vaz and Crystal Fernandes), the event began with our two Key speakers, Merella Fernandez – CTV News correspondent and our Motivational Speaker – Mr. Sunjay Nath, who conveyed his message using humor as a medium. There were several other presenters with professions ranging from Millwrights to Chemical Engineers. Each presenter had five to ten minutes to present, covering reasons for their career path and subjects/courses students should focus on. The floor was opened to Questions and Answers. Youth had the opportunity to approach the individual presenters for further networking and additional information at their individual booths. We thank Savia Souza Marques, a career profiler who assisted the youth determine their most appropriate career path. Finally, an event like this would not be possible without the assistance of our Sponsors. We gratefully acknowledge and thank PepsiCo, Softron Tax, UAE Exchange, Intact insurance and Mr. George Mathew.

By Abel Nunes

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Awards 2013-2014 An Opportunity to Recognize our Outstanding Young People. The Goan Overseas Association is pleased to recognize student success within the Goan community.

Every year, awards are presented to select Goan students who demonstrate a commitment to post-

secondary education and who are active role models in their schools and community.

The Victor Abreu Award

The Victor Abreu award ($500) will be awarded to a college/university student who is both a leader

and role model in their school and community. The G.O.A. values and Supports the incredible

contributions our young people are making in our local communities and schools, while continuing to

remain active in their extra- curricular activities, and show Commitment to post-secondary education.

The Brendon deSouza Award

Do you know an extraordinary young person who is dealing with extreme personal adversity while

striving for excellence at school, in sports and their Community? Please write to us to nominate them

for the Brendon deSouza award ($250)

The Oscar Fonseca Merit Award

A Top high school graduate will be awarded the Oscar Fonseca merit award ($250) for highest

academic achievement.

Visit us at www.goatoronto.com – Under the Awards Category for more detailed information.

Contact: Linda D’Sa -email- LDSA@goatoronto.com | Deadline- April 14th, 2014

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Family Activities Silver bells and candy canes….. 240 children, parents and grandparents streamed through the door for an afternoon of fun and to meet Santa! Activities began with ornament decorating, where the children made an ornament and took to the Christmas tree and hung their creativity. Other activities included cookie decorating, face painting, crafts and a lollipop lucky dip. Our MC – Linda D’Sa did an amazing job of ensuring the children were well entertained with many games and dancing. Ashley DeSouza, our DJ provided some fantastic music of the season. Lunch kicked off with Benjamin Braganza leading us into Grace before Meals.

After lunch – the children were entertained with two floor shows with performances by Krystal Fernandes, Cameron Da Costa, Candice Da Costa, Hannah Pereira, Maya Pereira and Jacklyne Elias. This was followed by all singing Christmas carols ushering in Santa’s arrival. There was much excitement as Santa made his rounds, finally settling into a comfy chair where he took each child on his lap listening carefully to what they wanted for Christmas. My take, was they must have been on the good list – for all 110 children in attendance walked away with a gift!

Children’s Christmas Party By Joyce DeSousa

Bowling On Sunday, February 23rd, 2014; over 50 people (parents, grandparents and children) gathered at Centre Bowl in Mississauga for a FUN afternoon of bowling. Bowling was 5 pin (one of the few remaining) with eight lanes. Teams were put together, while others, who had come to watch, cheer or wait their turn for the lane played cards or pool. The score was tallied for the highest points and Derwyn Cardozo’s team was declared the winner. What better way to spend a cold wintery Sunday afternoon than some quality time with your family!

Keep us in the loop! Have a change of email address or an update to your mailing address? Contact: membership@goatoronto.com

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St. Francis Xavier Feast

December 1st, 2013 - The G.O.A. brought together the Goan community in Toronto to celebrate the feast of our Patron Saint Francis Xavier. The Viva Goa style St. Francis Xavier feast, held at the Annapalis Hall in Mississauga, was a sold out event with over 800 attendees. They arrived to a hall decorated to resemble a street scene in Goa during the St. Francis Feast. The life sized back-drop of a market in Goa was a show-stopper. This brought nostalgic memories to many who have celebrated the feast in Goa.. The entertainment was cultural experience entitled “A Walk through the Villages” focused on the lost professions of our forefathers (i.e. tailor, bread man, distikar, cunbi, rice cultivator, toddy tapper and many more) and included some of our traditional dances. The final stop at the church saw children between the ages of 2 to 14 singing Silent Night in Konkani. The show was executed to perfection. Milena Marques-Zachariah and Wilson D’Souza of Radio Mango fame were the Guest hosts and with their command of the Konkani language and translation truly brought authenticity to the show.

For the food lovers, there were many options to choose from 6 caterers. Sorpotel, sausage on a bun, fish curry and rice and some creative snacks such as stuffed sannas and more, all for a very reasonable price. Furthermore, the GOA wanted to promote and encourage Goan Businesses and there were over 20 vendors who took part selling Christmas sweets (kuswar), goan pickles, sausages, jewellery, fashion wear, insurance…you name it, it was there. In the ensuing days the positive and congratulatory response and feedback we received is all evidence to the success of the event and definitely one that will be repeated. I would be remiss if I did not thank my dedicated and hardworking committee. Placido Dias and his team who brought his WOW factor to the Hall decor. The sister team, Margaret De Souza for the concept and script and Delphine Francis who produced and directed it. To our guest hosts Milena Zachariah and Wilson D’Souza for your time and assistance. Al and Jean Andrade, Theodora Dias and Clara Fernandes for taking care of the food vendors. Finally, to Anton Mascarenhas, Greta Dias, Ralph De Souza and all the participants in the show a big thank you. Special thanks to Clement DeRosario for allowing us to use his beautiful photo of the market scene and to Charles, Chris, and Cled De Souza of All Graphics Supplies for printing the backdrop photo.

By Fiona Pinto-De Souza

“A Walk through the Villages”…

EMPLOYERS & BUSINESS OWNERS: Post job offerings on the G.O.A. website FREE of charge. You can reach a potentially large number of hardworking, qualified candidates in our community. Email posting: info@goatoronto.com

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Summer Games The G.O.A. Summer Games are back! It has been a brutal winter in the Great White North! On the plus side, we were able watch our Canadian Olympians shine at the Sochi Winter Olympics. So when is the Summer Olympics? They are two years away, but you shouldn’t worry about sports withdrawal, as the G.O.A. Summer Games are just around the corner! In fact, they will kick-off on May 10th with the Soccer event (Football for you British types). World Cup fans we have good news for you! This amazing soccer action and the rest of the Summer Games will take place in the GTA so you won’t have to travel all the way to Brazil to catch a match! In addition, the events will run from May to August so as not to slide tackle away the opportunity to watch copious amounts of World Cup Soccer stuff from June 12th to July 13th.

The GOA Summer Games gives the entire G.O.A. community a great opportunity to come together, meet beautiful people in their hot sports paraphernalia, and socialize with like-minded sports nuts. Below is the schedule of tantalizing Summer Game activities that will be run this year. The contacts of the incredible volunteer organizers and deadlines for each event registration are also there. Last year unfortunately some “players” were left on the sidelines, please sign up as soon as possible to ensure that you aren’t one of them this year. So do your calisthenics, break out your sporty shoes and garments, and get ready to move your booty that has been chillin’ all winter long. It is time for summer and the Awesome G.O.A. Summer Games.

May to July 2014

EVENT DATE VENUE CONTACT DEADLINE

Soccer May 10 – 9am to 6pm Oakville Soccer Club abelnunes@rogers.com April 27

Basketball May 31 – 12noon to 6pm Hershey Centre abelnunes@rogersc.com

Badminton (Adults18+ ) June 6 – 7:30 – 10pm Applewood Heights Secondary School veldaabreu@gmail.com May 16

Badminton (Youth12-17) June 13 – 7:30 – 10pm Applewood Heights Secondary School veldaabreu@gmail.com May 16

Volleyball July 26 – 12noon – 4pm 10700 Fifth Line, Halton Hills abelnunes@rogersc.com June 30

Trouque July 26 – 12noon – 4pm 10700 Fifth Line, Halton Hills abelnunes@rogersc.com June 30

E V E N T S & R E G I S T R A T I O N

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Property Vaughan Rezoning The Owners’ Group is still awaiting the decision by the MTO which continues to be further delayed. The Land Owners Group has informed the MTO that it is exercising its right to remove the freeze on the lands adjacent to Hwy 400 in accordance with the 2012 OMB Terms of Settlement, so that the Block Plan work can be commenced. We will have to await a response from the MTO. Hwy 400 Widening Expropriation The MTO has made the final payment amounting to $43,264.10 and approved the payment of all the costs associated with the claim. The final settlement amounted to $84, 564.10 of which the G.O.A had received an interim payment of $41.300. A proposal will be made to the 2014 AGM for the amount available for redemptions to be made by a draw. Greenbelt Humpreys Group Planning Consultants assisted by Beacon Environmental has been keeping us updated on the City of Vaughan Planning Study for the Greenbelt lands and when the studies are completed we will endeavor to adjust the Greenbelt Boundary in our favour, which is essential to permit viable development outside the Greenbelt after the Expropriation. Contributors’ Mortgage Bond Redemptions Redemptions in 2013 done by a draw amounted to $30,214.51 as approved at the 2013 AGM. All the redeeming Bond Holders have been notified to collect their cheques from volunteers throughout the GTA. There are 9 Bond Holders who have yet to be traced and are listed below. Building-Bond Holders – Current Contact Information Required The following is the list of the remaining Bond Holders to be traced. Call Darrel Carvalho 905-897-0890 if you are on the list or know of these individuals and their current address and/or phone number.

Update By Darrel Carvalho - VP, Building

Last Name First Name Last Known Address City Prov PC

BENSON JOHN

CASTANHA PETER

FERNANDES CYRIL 2 KILBRIDE WHITBY ON L1R 2B2

LOBO MELWYN

PINTO ROMANO 910-31 HIGH ST EAST MISSISSAUGON L5G 1J9

ROCHA THOMAS 120 DUNDAS ST E MISSISSAUGON L4A 1W6

SELK PETER

VAZ DEREK

VIEGAS JOCELYN 1385 MIDLAND AVE #709 SCARBOROUON MIP 3B8

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Notices of the G.O.A & G.C.O NOTICE OF THE GOAN OVERSEAS ASSOCIATION - ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING Pursuant to Rule 15 (a) of the Goan Overseas Association Constitution, members are hereby notified that the Annual General Body Meeting of the Association will be held on Sunday, April 13th, 2014 at the Eatonville Library, 430 Burnhamthorpe Road, Toronto, M9B 2B1, ON, (Burnhamthorpe Rd/ Hwy 427). Registration Starts at 2:00 p.m. AGENDA 1. To confirm the minutes of the Annual General Body Meeting held on April 7th, 2013 2. To confirm the minutes of the Special Constitution Meeting held on March 30th, 2014 3. To receive matters arising there from 4. To receive the President's commentary 5. To receive an update on the property 6. To adopt the Executive Committee's Annual Report 7. To receive and adopt the consolidated financial statements for the year 2013 8. To adopt the budget for the fiscal year 2014 9. To introduce a Special levy for Patron members. 10. To provide details of the G.O.A and Canorient merger. 11. To Elect General Secretary for 2014-2015 12. To Elect Auditors for 2014 13. To Elect Board of Trustees for 2014 14. Any other business provided notice is given in writing to the General Secretary no later than March 31st, 2014 - Linda D’Sa. General Secretary NOTICE OF THE GOAN CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION (GCO) – ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Body Meeting of the Goan Charitable Organization will be held at Eatonville Library- 430 Burnhamthorpe Road, Toronto, M9B 2B1, ON, Etobicoke, on Sunday, April 13th, 2014. (Burnhamthorpe Rd/ Hwy 427) The meeting of the G.C.O. will commence immediately upon completion of the Annual General Meeting of the Goan Overseas Association. AGENDA 1. To confirm minutes of the AGM held on Sunday April 7, 2013 2. Matters arising there from 3. Adoption of Secretary’s Report 4. Adoption of Financial Statements for the year 2013 5. Any other business (Provided 2 week’s notice is given) - Cedric D’Souza, Secretary/Treasurer

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General Information Executive Committee – 2014 Velda J.M. Abreu President (abreu@goatoronto.com) Gavin DaCosta Vice President, Administration Cassian Rodrigues Treasurer Edward Soares Assistant Treasurer Darrel Carvalho Vice President, Building Linda D’Sa General Secretary Abel Nunes Director, Sports Activities Jesse DeCosta Marketing and Communications Fiona Pinto-DeSouza Director, Social Activities Greta Dias Director, Cultural Activities Selwyn Collaco Director, Sponsorship and Information Technology Joyce DeSousa Director, Family Activities Derwyn Cardozo Member Board of Trustees Kevin Pereira Chairman of the Goan Overseas Association Board of Trustees Paul Nazareth Vice-Chairman of the Goan Overseas Association Board of Trustees Cedric D’Souza Secretary of the Goan Overseas Association Board of Trustees Auditors John Nazareth G.O.A. Auditor Almir D’Cunha G.O.A. Auditor Goan Charitable Organization Executive Kevin Pereira President Chairman of the Goan Overseas Association Board of Trustees Paul Nazareth Vice President Vice-Chairman of the Goan Overseas Association Board of Trustees Cedric D’Souza Sec/Treas Secretary of the Goan Overseas Association Board of Trustees Velda J.M. Abreu Director President, Goan Overseas Association Gavin DaCosta Director Vice-President, Goan Overseas Association Hazel Fernandes Director

The Goan Overseas Association (G.O.A.) is a strong integrated cultural organization that seeks to preserve the Goan identity and develop a wider appreciation of Goan culture locally throughout the GTA and worldwide. The organization will continue to actively maintain family, culture and tradition through social, cultural, athletic, and educational activities within the Goan community. We seek to strengthen our role in the Goan community by providing a high standard of leadership for Goans.

WORD OF MOUTH….. The best method of bringing in new members is through referrals. Let your friends know that you are enjoying the variety of events that are organized by G.O.A. Toronto and invite them to attend events with you and to consider Membership.

Goan Overseas Association, PO Box 5667, Station A, Toronto, ON, M5W 1N8

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COMING SOON: PAY YOUR MEMBERSHIP ONLINE