By : JOSE ZLATAR - President of the Peruvian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce

INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGE

The Peruvian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce wants to congratulate all Canadians for the recent celebration of Canada's Day on July 1st. We also wish to extend our congratulations to all Peruvian-Canadians living in Canada who are getting ready to celebrate the 187 anniversary of Peru's Independence Declaration on July 28, 2008.

Peruvians in Canada are ambassadors of their very rich culture, home of many pre-Columbian civilizations like Chavin, Paracas and Chimu, home of the mighty Inka empire who was the largest organized country in pre-European colonization of America , inheritors of the largest Spanish viceroyalty with its rich Hispanic culture, language and
traditions.

Peru is also the cradle of the potato and tomato and during its republican life Peru became a truly cultural melting pot yielding the most fantastic and richest cuisine in America. So rich is the Peruvian geography that almost all climates are located within its borders and therefore almost any product can be grown there. So rich that in a very short period of time had become one of the largest gold producers in the world among many other mineral products.

So, today, Peru needs the help of all their daughters and sons living abroad to be the ambassadors of the country, to promote it and to reassure foreign investors that Peru offers today not only countless business opportunities but also democracy, stability, a well trained professional force and a rich culture to enjoy.

Peru is in our hearts! ... Lets celebrate our Independence Day and remember to act as its good will ambassadors promoting the investment that will create jobs and bring Peru into the 21st century.


1st ANNUAL PERUVIAN HORSE FESTIVAL

Organizer: Peruvian Paso Horse Association of Ontario

The first of its kind in Ontario will be held at the Orono Fair Grounds. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Burnt Unit of the Sick Kids Hospital in Lima, Peru.

The Peruvian Horse is a "hot blood", a purebred Spanish horse that was selectively bred for the amble after reaching the shores of Peru. No outside blood has been introduced into the Peruvian breed, as there was no need to cross with other breeds to produce taller, heavier or faster horses, as was the case in other countries such as Mexico,
Argentina or the United States. Selective breeding coupled with such factors as climate and forage, served to modify succeeding generations and create a new breed, which possess characteristics different from those of any other horse in the world.

The festival will be featuring Peruvian and international food, folkloric dancers and of course amazing horses, plus other attractions and a surprise or two. Don't miss this unique event!

When: Sunday, July 20th, 2008 - 10 a.m.
Where: Orono Fair Grounds. See directions and map at www.pphao.ca
Admission: $10 in advance - $15 at the door - Free for children under 5 - Free Parking
For more information: Carlos Escudero - 905.303.8137 - pasohorse@rogers.com


H.S.M.O. CELEBRATES INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH A PARTY

Organizer: Hermandad del Senor de los Milagros

The "Hermandad del Senor de los Milagros en Ontario" invites you to celebrate Independence Day with a blast party at Our Lady Queen of Croatia again this year after a successful sold-out party last year.

Join them for the best latin music with the Havana Express Band. Entertainment will also include Peruvian folk dancers, musicians, and prizes.

Delicious peruvian food will be served.

When: Saturday, July 26th, 2008 - 7 p.m.
Where: Our Lady Queen of Croatia - 7 Croatia St. Toronto (Dufferin & Bloor)
Admission: $20 - Free parking at Dufferin Mall
More information: www.hsmontario.net


FLAG-RAISING CEREMONY AT NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE

Organizer: PERUANOS UNIDOS

The 23rd Annual Festival, celebrating Peruvian Independence Day, will take place Sunday, July 27th. The festival will start with a tribute to the Peruvian flag, followed by Peru and Canada' hymns.

A number of local dignitaries are expected to attend.

The festival will feature entertainment from 200 artists from 15 countries, representing our multi-cultural community.

Authentic food will be offered all day long.
When: Sunday, July 27th, 2008 - 2 to 8 p.m.
Where: Nathan Phillips Square - 100 Queen St. W. - Northwest of Queen & Bay St
Admission: Free - Underground paid parking


"Arrebol de los Claveles" - PERUVIAN LUNCHEON PARTY

Organizer: Asociacion de Mujeres Peruanas en Ontario

Peru's 187th Anniversary as an independent country, will be celebrated in grand style at the Palace Place towers with a members-only creole luncheon and dance.

On this special date, the Peruvian Women Association will like to salute and congratulate all Peruvian-Canadians, best known for their work ethic, their professionalism, their faith, their civic pride, and their academic endeavor.

Lets celebrate with truly spirit and jubilee..!

When: Sunday, July 27th, 2008
Where: Palace Place - Palace Pier Court, Toronto


VOTIVE MASS FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY

Organizer: Hermandad del Senor de los Milagros

Peruvians residing in Ontario will be elevating a prayer for their fellow countrymen in Peru. A prayer that will deepen faith, reminding us of great truths: that all men are created equal and that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights - Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

A prayer for their leaders (government officials, lawmakers, judges, educators, fathers, mothers, employers, etc) to seek and find wisdom and love.

When: Monday, July 28th, 2008 - 7 p.m.
Where: San Augustin de Canterbury - 80 Shoreham St, Downsview, Toronto (Steeles & Jane St.)
More information: www.hsmontario.net


PISCO DE HONOR

Organizer: Consulado General del Peru en Toronto

The Consulate General of Peru will be hosting an official reception for the peruvian community across Ontario to celebrate the 187th Anniversary of the Independence of Peru.

This year's guest of honor is the Ambassador of Peru in Canada, Mr. Jorge Castañeda Méndez.

Representatives of Peruvian Institutions will also attend the event to participate in the main toast, promoting the integration of Peruvians residing in Ontario.

When: Thursday, July 31st, 2008 - 7 p.m.
Where: Metro Hall - 55 John Street - Southeast King West & John St - St. Andrew subway station
Admission: Free
For more information: www.conperutoronto.com