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Friday, July 30, 2010

A first for University of Winnipeg - It's a Folklorama Pavilion

UWINNIPEG PROUD TO SUPPORT FOLKLORAMA
UW RELEASE - 2010/133
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

WINNIPEG, MB - The University of Winnipeg is honoured to be partnering with the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council and Manito Ahbee to present and host the DOTC First Nations Pavilion in The University of Winnipeg's Riddell Hall, 515 Portage Avenue for the week of August 1 - 7, 2010 as part of Folklorama 2010.
This unique pavilion captures and shares the diversity of nine First Nations communities that will immerse visitors in a rich cultural experience daily Monday - Friday with shows at 6:45 pm, 8:15 pm and 9:45 pm and Sunday & Saturday with shows at 5:00 pm, 6:45 pm, 8:15 pm and 9:45 pm.
Highlights of the pavilion include the renowned Walking Wolf Singers and Dancers. Ray Stevenson, a traditional hand drummer, will be joined by a traditional dance troupe to showcase genres of Pow Wow dancing such as Grass Dance, Jingle Dress and Fancy Shawl. Culinary delights created by UWinnipegs Diversity Catering will include bison stew, elk burgers and smokies, bannock and jam and mixed berry crumble.

UWinnipegs partnership with DOTC and Manito Ahbee echoes our commitment to First Nations communities, said Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, UWinnipegs President & Vice-Chancellor. As an urban campus, we are known as a meeting place that encourages the community, the arts and academia to come together. Education through the sharing of culture is an engaging and interactive way to learn.
Folklorama promotes the ethno-cultural diversity of Manitoba through entertainment, public celebrations of culture and education. For information visit http://www.folklorama.ca

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UWinnipeg is consistently ranked in the Top-10 in the country on an annual basis by both Macleans Magazine and The Globe & Mail newspaper. The University of Winnipeg is a leader in academic excellence, Aboriginal education, environmental studies & sustainability, and theatre & the arts. Find out more by visiting www.uwinnipeg.ca .Follow us on twitter http://twitter.com/uwinnipeg

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Naniece Ibrahim, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg

P: 204.988.7130, E: n.ibrahim@uwinnipeg.ca

My Island Leguan Blog

My Island Leguan Blog

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Government seeks to recoup costs from hell's angel's clubhouse

July 29, 2010

PROVINCE SEEKS FORFEITURE OF HELLS ANGELS CLUBHOUSE
Manitoba Justice advises a statement of claim filed in the Court of Queen’s Bench seeks forfeiture of the Hells Angels clubhouse to the province and an interim order has allowed the province to immediately seize the property at 2679 Scotia St. and its contents.

The claim alleges the property was used as a place to plan and carry out criminal activity, making it subject to forfeiture under the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act.

Under the act, proceeds from unlawful acts and property used in an unlawful act may be forfeited to the government by order of the court. Along with real estate, items such as cash and vehicles can be forfeited.

Proceeds from the sale of forfeited property are placed in a fund to support activities such as:

· compensating victims of the unlawful activity;

· remedying the effects of the unlawful activity;

· promoting safer communities by funding programs that reduce or prevent crime or enhance the practices and training of law enforcement agencies; and

· covering the costs of bringing the court application and seizing, managing and selling property ordered forfeited by a court.

Property ordered forfeited by a court can be sold, donated or destroyed. Protection for innocent third parties who have legitimate interests in a property is built into the legislation.
A total of 35 statements of claim have been filed since the legislation was enacted. Claims involving cash, vehicles and houses collectively valued at more than $9 million are currently being pursued.
The legislation is available online at http://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/ccsm/c306e.php
 
Comment:
I think the government has every right to these unlawful properties. The Hell's Angels should not be allowed to keep any of its ill begotten estate.  Some of the monies collected should be donated to agencies that are working on gang/crime prevention, people who have suffered personal losses as a result of these illegal activities and to the taxpayers who foot the bill for court costs etc.

Just Like Me Couples: Open: Maiko Watson and Remy Shand

Just Like Me Couples: Open: Maiko Watson and Remy Shand

How to Use the Law of Attraction - wikiHow

How to Use the Law of Attraction - wikiHow

How to Use the Law of Attraction - wikiHow

How to Use the Law of Attraction - wikiHow

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

BBC News - 'Toxic trio' triggers gut disease

BBC News - 'Toxic trio' triggers gut disease

BBC News - Condoleezza Rice and Aretha Franklin make music together

BBC News - Condoleezza Rice and Aretha Franklin make music together

Miss Iceland is coming to town passing through Winnipeg on her way to the Gimli Festival


Here's the beautiful Miss Iceland - Welcome to Winnipeg!!

Hoping you may be interested in speaking with Guðrún Dögg Rúnarsdóttir, Miss Iceland 2009. Her name is pronouced- (Goothroon} {Duk} {Roonarsdoe-tyr)
She is in Winnipeg one day only, Thursday July 29 prior to heading to Gimli and participation in the Gimli Icelandic Festival.
Among her appearances and duties in this regard is acting as Parade Marshal.

She has no set activities while in Winnipeg but is available for in-person or telephone interviews.
Give me a call to arrange.
Brian Koshul

******

Tel: 770-3574BIOGRAPHY

Guðrún Dögg Rúnarsdóttir
MISS ICELAND 2009
Guðrún Dögg Rúnarsdóttir, Miss Iceland of 2009, was born in the small town of Akranes in Western Iceland in February of 1991. She is 19 years of age and has two sisters and three brothers. Growing up she was involved in gymnastics, swimming and figure skating.
At around the age of fourteen, she began work as a model and soon after placed second runner up in a Ford Agency modeling contest in Iceland.

A few years later at the age of eighteen Guðrún was invited to compete in Miss Vesturland (Miss Western Iceland and placed second in the pageant. It was as a result of this placing that she progressed to the Miss Iceland contest and her being named as Miss Iceland.

After winning the Miss Iceland pageant Guðrún says her whole life changed. She was selected to go to South Africa for six weeks competing in the Miss World pageant in November 2009, which she describes as a life changing experience, seeing a different part of the world and experiencing so many things that would not have been possible without the Miss World Pageant opportunity.
Guðrún still lives in Akranes and is returning to school this fall. During the summer she is working at a care home for the elderly in Akranes.

Monday, July 26, 2010

The Blog of Sean Stephenson | Living at Cause

The amazing Sean, the little man with a big heart
The Blog of Sean Stephenson Living at Cause

TAXI: What Would You Do With the Ultimate List of Publishers, Record Labels and Film & TV Music Supervisors?

TAXI: What Would You Do With the Ultimate List of Publishers, Record Labels and Film & TV Music Supervisors?

Gourmet Cooking and Eating Well on a Budget - Oprah.com

Gourmet Cooking and Eating Well on a Budget - Oprah.com

Gayle King's Trip to the Outlets - Oprah.com#slide

Gayle King's Trip to the Outlets - Oprah.com#slide

YouTube - America's Got Talent Alice Tan Ridley Audition

YouTube - America's Got Talent Alice Tan Ridley Audition

Susan Boyle - Singer - Britains Got Talent 2009 - Video

Susan Boyle - Singer - Britains Got Talent 2009 - Video

'Plastic bottle' boat returns from 15,000km voyage

'Plastic bottle' boat returns from 15,000km voyage

Town councillor is Russia's first black elected official - The Globe and Mail

Town councillor is Russia's first black elected official - The Globe and Mail

Jean Gregoire Sagbo Becomes First Black Politician Elected In Russia

The world is indeed changing for the better, we are beginning to become a new and better race of men.
In deep white Caucasian Russia a black man made history by becoming the first black person to be elected to office.
Jean Gregoire Sagbo Becomes First Black Politician Elected In Russia

YouTube - Nick Vujicic, No Arms, No Legs, No Worries! Part 1 of 3

YouTube - Nick Vujicic, No Arms, No Legs, No Worries! Part 1 of 3

YouTube - Nick Vujicic, No Arms, No Legs, No Worries! Part 1 of 3

YouTube - Nick Vujicic, No Arms, No Legs, No Worries! Part 1 of 3

Girl, Get Me Started! » Tressed Obsessed

Girl, Get Me Started! » Tressed Obsessed

Celebrating women1

Celebrating women1

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Rahul Sharma wins CBC Diversity Scholarship 2010

Rahul Sharma receives the


CBC Manitoba 2010 Diversity Scholarship


CBC Manitoba is proud to announce Rahul Sharma is the recipient of our 2010 Diversity Scholarship. Sharma is awarded a $1,000 academic scholarship and an eight-week work experience at CBC Manitoba in July and August.
A graduate of Sisler High School, Sharma is highly involved in the community and volunteers his time at Folklorama and Festival du Voyageur, amongst other places.
During his time at CBC, Sharma will shadow a number of different departments in order to gain an understanding of the broadcasting industry. This will include a stint with CBC Manitoba Communications and Partnerships where he will work with the Winnipeg Fringe Festival and other community organizations and events.
The CBC Manitoba Diversity Scholarship is for youth graduating high school with the intention of entering the field of broadcasting or journalism. To qualify, youth must come from an ethnic or ancestral background that is a visible minority or Aboriginal.

"CBC is committed to representing the diversity of people and voices that make up Canada and this community," explains John Bertrand, CBC Regional Director of English Radio and Television. "We want talented young people to consider working here to help us do that. We've created this scholarship to support and encourage those high school students who've already made the decision to pursue a career in journalism or broadcasting. They will be the CBC journalists and programmers of the future."







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For more information, please contact:



Leona Johnson



Communications and Partnership Manager



CBC Manitoba

204-788-3127



Leona.Johnson@cbc.ca



July 21, 2010









Stacy Cardigan Smith

Communications Officer

CBC Manitoba

Ph: 204-788-3129

Cell: 204-781-4942

Fax: 204-788-3104

Recipes for Health - Spicy Quinoa, Cucumber and Tomato Salad - NYTimes.com

Recipes for Health - Spicy Quinoa, Cucumber and Tomato Salad - NYTimes.com

Court’s Leniency Ruling Is Too Late for Deportees - NYTimes.com

Court’s Leniency Ruling Is Too Late for Deportees - NYTimes.com

New Rules for Pay Day Loans - Be informed

July 20, 2010




NEW PAYDAY LOANS RATES AND RULES PROCLAIMED

– – –

Tough New Rules Take Effect Oct. 18: Mackintosh





New maximum interest rates for payday loans and additional consumer protection measures will take effect Oct. 18, Family Services and Consumer Affairs Minister Gord Mackintosh announced today.



“These changes will offer consumers protection from high interest rates, unfair business practices and a cycle of debt that many people have trouble getting out of,” said Mackintosh. “We recognize there is a demand for these types of loans and have designed the legislation to ensure the strongest possible level of protection for consumers.”



The proposed changes to Manitoba’s Payday Loans Regulation were announced earlier this year. Now the federal government, which has authority to set interest rates, has issued an order to allow Manitoba to set rates for payday loans. The new maximum rate that can be charged for a payday loan is $17 per $100. The maximum amount of a loan can only be 30 per cent of a person’s next net pay. Manitoba’s rate is the lowest in the country among provinces that effectively allow payday loans.



Additional regulations include:

· terms and conditions in loan agreements must be disclosed in a way that is clear and understandable to borrowers;

· all fees are to be included in the cost of credit, whether or not they are optional;

· the maximum fee for a replacement loan is five per cent;

· lenders, including brokers, must be licensed and bonded;

· Internet lenders will be regulated, ensuring they operate with the same rules as a lender with a storefront location;

· written consent is required for a lender to verify a borrower’s employment; and

· lenders cannot make unauthorized withdrawals from a borrower's account or use rewards or incentives to entice borrowers to get a loan.



These changes result from consultations with stakeholder groups like the Consumers’ Association of Canada (Manitoba), Manitoba Society of Seniors, Winnipeg Harvest, the Canadian Payday Loan Association and a number of payday lenders, the minister said.



He added, strong payday loan legislation is part of the five-year Let’s Make a Better Deal consumer protection strategy. For more information on the payday loan legislation, contact the Consumer Protection Office at 204-945-3800, 1-800-782-0067 (toll-free) or by email at consumers@gov.mb.ca.



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July 19, 2010
GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP BREAKS GROUND ON MULTICULTURAL FAMILY CENTRE IN WINNIPEG

The provincial government is distributing this news release on behalf of the governments of Canada and Manitoba and the Salvation Army.

Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger and Shelly Glover, Member of Parliament for Saint Boniface, together with Wendi Park, Salvation Army Director, today celebrated the beginning of construction for the new Salvation Army Multicultural Family Centre.

The Multicultural Family Centre provides essential programs and services that respond to social needs and enhance the quality of life for multicultural communities across the region. The new centre will offer employment training, prenatal and parenting support groups, kids club, youth drop-in, and English mentoring programs, in addition to a food bank. The new 14,000-square-foot facility will be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System Standards.
“Every year, more people from around the world are making Manitoba their home,” said Selinger. “In 1998, fewer than 3,000 immigrants were coming to Manitoba each year and by 2009, that number has grown to almost 14,000. The Multicultural Family Centre provides essential life skills and supports that makes the transition much easier for new Manitobans.”

“The Government of Canada is proud to invest in the Multicultural Family Centre,” said Glover. “Building this new facility will allow the Salvation Army to continue serving the residents and newcomers of the area, as well as expand their services for the children, students and adults for years to come, while providing the much needed jobs to support the economy today.”

“The new centre will better facilitate the vision we are realizing to be an empowering presence in the community,” said Park, the Multicultural Family Centre Director. “While many of our neighbours and participants experience multiple barriers, we are privileged to journey alongside, carry burdens together, and celebrate the gift of hope in our community.” Park added, “We want our newcomer, single parent, our under-employed adult, our youth, and our senior to know that they are not alone and that we are better together.”

The total eligible project costs are $4.5 million, with the federal and provincial governments each providing one-third of the costs, up to $1.5 million each. The Salvation Army will contribute the remaining one-third of funding.

Today’s announcement continues the important steps the Province of Manitoba is taking to support economic growth by investing $1.6 billion this year, into infrastructure to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and renew the province’s roads, schools, health facilities, and water treatment facilities.

Across all of its funds, Infrastructure Canada has now committed more than $10.2 billion toward over 6,000 infrastructure projects as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. When combined with the contributions of funding partners, there is close to $30.5 billion committed to infrastructure projects across the country. Overall, the Government of Canada has invested $143 million in more than 100 projects under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund across Manitoba.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Major General John Fugh, Pioneer & Asian Advocate, Dies - DiversityInc.com

Major General John Fugh, Pioneer & Asian Advocate, Dies - DiversityInc.com

Jonathon Toews is the Man of the Moment

The city came out in full force to welcome home its atlethic hero, Jonathan Toews, captain of the Chicago Blackhawks to receive his well deserved honours.  He has earned it.
                                                             ***
Premier Greg Selinger today announced the Province of Manitoba is naming a lake in honour of Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews.


“I know all Manitobans will join me in congratulating Jonathan on his achievements,” said Selinger. “Winning the Stanley Cup, the Conn Smythe Trophy and an Olympic gold medal all in one year is an incredible success story. We are all extremely proud of Jonathan and naming a lake in his honour is a fitting tribute.”

Toews Lake is situated about 95 kilometres north of Flin Flon. It is approximately 2.4 km long and 1.6 km wide.

In 2007, Toews was inducted into Manitoba’s Order of the Buffalo Hunt in recognition of his outstanding achievements in winning two gold medals with Team Canada in the 2007 world junior and world men’s hockey championships.
“Jonathan is an excellent role model for the youth of Manitoba and a superior ambassador for our province and our country,” said Selinger. “At 22 years old, his career in hockey is just beginning. He has come a long way from his days of lacing up his skates at Winnipeg’s Dakota Community Club.”

At the Legislative Building today, Selinger presented Toews with a certificate documenting the lake bearing the hockey star’s name.

Premier Greg Selinger presents Chicago Blackhawks captain Johnathan Toews with a certificate documenting the lake bearing the hockey star's name.

Friday, July 09, 2010

'To Kill a Mockingbird': Endearing, enduring at 50 years - USATODAY.com

Imagine Harper Lee wrote this one book and she became infamous for it. She chronicled the injustices of her day and she was rewarded for it. What a brave woman. Now she lives quietly and probably enjoying the fruits of her labour. Check out this article about this incredible writer

'To Kill a Mockingbird': Endearing, enduring at 50 years - USATODAY.com

Feminism is Alive and Well ... Even Sarah Palin Wants to Be One | | AlterNet

Positive
Feminism is Alive and Well ... Even Sarah Palin Wants to Be One AlterNet

AlterNet: America's Deadliest Sweetener Betrays Millions, Then Hoodwinks You with Name Change

If you have a sweet tooth perhaps it is best to treat yourself to real sugar rather than these deadly concoctions that are dreamed up in labs to assist us to have our cake and eat it too.   Read the article below and be informed.

AlterNet: America's Deadliest Sweetener Betrays Millions, Then Hoodwinks You with Name Change

Wednesday, July 07, 2010

CDC | NIOSH Update: Challenges of Research in Migrant Populations Noted by NIOSH Director

An increasing literature indicates that migrant workers in the United States, and in other countries around the world, bear a disparate burden of occupational fatalities, injuries, and illnesses as compared to the non-migrant or native workforce," Dr. Howard notes.



CDC NIOSH Update: Challenges of Research in Migrant Populations Noted by NIOSH Director

Better be safe (or paranoid) than dead

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do :


The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do!



2. Learned this from a tourist guide. If a robber asks for your wallet &/or purse.

DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you. Chances are that he is more interested in your wallet &/or purse than you,& he will go for the wallet/purse.

RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!



3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole & start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.



4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., & just sit (doing their chequebook, or making a list, etc.(DON'T DO THIS!) The predator may be watching you, & this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head,and tell you where to go.

AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR,

LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE.If someone is in the car with a gun to your head

DO NOT DRIVE OFF,Repeat:DO NOT DRIVE OFF!

Instead run the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car. Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it. As soon as the car crashes bail out and run. It is better than having your body found in a remote location.



5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:

A.) Be Aware: Look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat

B.) If you are parked next to a big van enter your car from the passenger door.

Most serial killers attack their female victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

C.) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, & on the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back

Into the mall, or work, & get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.

IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY.(And better paranoid than dead.)



6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone, & the perfect crime spot. This is especially true at NIGHT!



7. If the predator has a gun & you are not under his control,ALWAYS RUN!

The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; & even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN, preferably in a zig -zag pattern!



8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP!!It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man,

who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women.He walked with a cane, or a limp, & often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle,

which is when he abducted his next victim.



9. Another Safety Point:Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last, & she called the police because it was late & she thought it was weird... The police told her'whatever you do, DO NOT open the door..'

The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a window, & she was worried that it would crawl to the street & get run over. The policeman said, 'We already have a unit on the way,whatever you do, DO NOT open the door.'He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded & uses it to coax women out of their homes, thinking that someone dropped off a baby. He said they have not verified it,

but have had several calls by women saying that they hear baby's cries outside their doors

when they're home alone at night.



10. Water Scam! If you wake up in the middle of the night to hear all your taps outside running, or what you think is a burst pipe, DO NOT GO OUT TO INVESTIGATE!

These people turn on all your outside taps full bore so that you will go out to investigate

& then they attack. Stay alert, keep safe, and look out for your neighbours!

Tuesday, July 06, 2010

AlterNet: Why Modern Day Grandparenting Is So Hard

AlterNet: Why Modern Day Grandparenting Is So Hard

To Stop Cheats, Colleges Learn Their Trickery - NYTimes.com

If you wonder why some university graduates don't seem that smart they might have cheated their way through school.
To Stop Cheats, Colleges Learn Their Trickery - NYTimes.com

Sudanese Community Need Help in keeping Resource Centre Open

I listened in awe to the news item on CBC where Terry MacLeod was talking to a member of the Sudanese community about the financial dilemma they’re having in upkeep their community on Dagmar Street. The gentleman was pleading for help in maintaining the Centre and paying overdue taxes.
It seems clear that this small Sudanese community has bitten off more than it can chew. Someone did not do the proper research to see what is involved in owning a building. Many newcomers arrive here with rose colored glasses and the see the possibility in living the great American or Canadian dream. But things are not as they appear and they soon find out the hard way.

That old building that the community bought was a mistake and my advice to them is to cut their losses and run. Even if the City forgives the current debt could the Sudanese community by itself sustain that building? Many more established communities in Winnipeg have struggled for years to have their own building; some have bought and had to sell. It is not as easy as it appears and there needs to be a lot of thought and planning put into it before the decision is made.

Newcomers must be counseled into how to go about investing in these projects about which they have little knowledge. Many newcomers see the government as source for everything; other sees the community as unending supporters of all the causes that are out there. There are those who are raising funds for orphanages back home, those who are raising funds to build buildings, those who are raising funds for HIV, those who are raising funds for Grandmothers, those who are raising funds to build libraries, those who are raising funds to help free political prisoners, those who are raising funds to help women and children right here in Winnipeg. The Black /African community population is small and it is a tax on the community to support all these worthwhile projects. Priorities must be made by both communities and individuals.

While buying a building might be easy, its upkeep is never easy – ask any home-owner. There is always something to be done and while you would have to find the money to keep a roof over your head, people will not and maybe could not dig into their pockets to keep a community building going. When you have a community building all the community resources are taken up with fundraising to sustain the building and the big picture is lost in the money pit.

The Sudanese community ought to use resources that are in the community for their events – there are schools, other community centres have been established for a long time and churches that can be accessed. Every little community does not need to own a building, get over it and think outside the box.

Going on CBC and crying will not help you. There are many organizations crying for the same dollar. Is it a case where newcomers are either not getting the support they need in understanding Canadian system and ways of doing things or perhaps the newcomers are given good advice but believe they know better and go ahead with their plans?

As taxpayers, we have a lot on our plate and I think our priority is to provide services and space for community to meet. In this regard the University of Winnipeg has embraced the refugee community and I am sure will gladly provide a meeting space for the Sudanese community events. Release the burden of the building and go back to the drawing board. Do your research and find out what resources are available in the community for your people to access. There are youth programs everywhere in the city. Connect your youths to what is available. The most important thing for any community is to support your people, be the connector, use what is there and do not go reinventing the wheel.

Monday, July 05, 2010

Home Depot discriminated against Sikh guard: Tribunal | Global Sikh News

Home Depot discriminated against Sikh guard: Tribunal Global Sikh News

Sikhs fight sawmill hard hat policy

Sikhs fight sawmill hard hat policy

Home Depot discriminated against Sikh guard: Tribunal | Global Sikh News

Sikh worker seeks compensation for human rights violation

Home Depot discriminated against Sikh guard: Tribunal Global Sikh News

Provincial Council of Women Celebrates Women's Achievements and Contributions

Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba, Inc.
204-825 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB., R3A 1M5

Tel: (204) 992-2751 Fax: (204) 975 3027

E-mail pcwm@mts.net
Press Release

Contact: Arlene Draffin-Jones

Phone: 589-6449

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunday, July 4,2010



The Provincial Council of Women Celebrates the Volunteer Work and Contribution by Women to Their Community
On July 7th, 2010 the Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba will be honoring the achievements of Manitoba women and recognizing a federate group who have made a difference in the quality of life for women, their families and the community. This is the 4th Annual Gala Reception, Celebrating Women, to be held at Khartum Shrine House, 1155 Wilkes Avenue, starting at 7:30 pm. There will be refreshments, door prizes, a rainbow auction and entertainment. All are welcome.

Individuals being honored are:

Doreen Pattie – Girl Guides of Canada (MB Council)

Joan Butcher – Manitoba Association of Home Economists

Valinda Morris – Immigrant Women’s Association of Manitoba

Eleanor Gibson- Council of Women of Winnipeg

Irene McKenzie – United Church Women, Manitoba & NW Ontario

Arlene Draffin Jones – Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba

Federate honoree:
Manitoba Women’s Institute
A copy of the biographies of the honourees is attached.
Tickets are $25.00, and available from McNally Robinson Booksellers at Grant Park Shopping Centre or by phoning 992 2751, or e-mailing pcwm@mts.net.

PCWM founded in 1949 – women working together for 60 years
- 30 -

For further information, or to arrange an interview:

Arlene Draffin Jones 992 2751





Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba (PCWM)

2010 Celebrating Women Honourees

• Doreen Pattie - Girl Guides of Canada (MB Council). Doreen has been active in Guides as a leader, trainer and administrator for over 27 years, but working with young girls in the community has been the highlight of her involvement. She has been on the School Parents Council and a member of the St. James WRHA Community Council and has recently been appointed the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Manitoba Girl Guides.

• Joan Butcher – Manitoba Association of Home Economists. Joan’s work as a Home Economist has sent her around the world to share her skills and knowledge to assist women and families. Programs in Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Antigua and across Canada have benefited from her energy and enthusiasm. She is a past president of the Manitoba Association of Home Economists and the PCWM as well as serving as a Vice President on NCWC. Well respected for community development, Joan now works as a labour market specialist assisting immigrant professionals in their search for employment in Manitoba. Joan works at Success Skills Centre and is archivist for PCWM.

• Valinda Morris – Immigrant Women’s Association of Manitoba (IWAM). Valinda is the Councils of Women most prolific researcher – helping write letters, briefs and presentations to all levels of government. She has willingly offered her assistance to federate groups such as IWAM. Valinda has served on the boards or panels of the MB UNICEF Committee, Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg, United Way, Social Planning Council, Women’s Post-Treatment Centre and the University Women’s Club of Winnipeg. Involved with the Councils of Women since 1992, Valinda is a life member of PCWM.

• Eleanor Gibson – Council of Women of Winnipeg. Actively involved in serving the community for over 70 years Eleanor is a “volunteer extraordinaire”! As a social worker working with children and their families Eleanor began a long standing involvement with the Children’s Hospital and the St. John’s Hospital Guild. She is a past president of the Guild, the CWW, the Children’s Research Foundation and has served and is still on boards and committees from a host of organizations ranging from the Women’s Committee of the Winnipeg Symphony, Women’s Canadian Club, University of Winnipeg Women’s Association, Women’s Committee of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the Dugald Costume Museum, YM/YWCA and many more. Today she is the respected Archivist for the CWW. Her wise counsel and enthusiastic spirit has benefited many groups and individuals and made Winnipeg a better place to live.

• Irene McKenzie – United Church Women, Manitoba & NW Ontario Conference.For the last three decades Irene has dedicated her life to speaking up for those whose voices are often not heard – an activist and caring supporter for women’s rights, refugees, Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered persons. She helped establish UNPAC after trips to Nairobi and Beijing to the UN Women’s Conferences and is a long time member of MATCH. Irene is a dedicated member of CWW and was on the Outreach Committee of Westminster United Church.

• Arlene Draffin Jones – Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba. Arlene’s work as a health education nurse has taken her to England, Ethiopia, China, France, Spain, Australia and across North America researching, developing, presenting programs and advocating for women’s health issues – especially related to respiratory health and tobacco. As a past president of the Women’s Health Research Foundation, Nor’West Health Centre and PCWM and current Chair of the NCWC Development Organization she continues to work for improving her community. Arlene is Vice President of CWW and the Chair of the Celebrating Women Gala Committee.

The Federate Honouree is the Manitoba Women’s Institute (WI). This year the WI celebrates it’s100th anniversary advocating for rural and farm women for recognition of women’s capabilities, family well-being and community development through education, training and improving communication. The MB WI was one of the first groups to become a federate of the PCWM.

The Queen in Winnipeg

Queen in Winnipeg July 3, 2010
Having been brought up in a British colonial Territory, the Queen has some significance to me and personally I like the ceremonial and appreciate this particular queen a lot.  There is something about Queen Elizabeth II that is ordinary and yet extraordinary and I can't place my finger on what it it is.  She appears down to earth and someone who takes her role seriously as any professional person and not as a frivolous add-on but she is Queen. She seems to care about people and issues that concerns ordinary folks.
    The Black woman who slipped through the security to hand the Queen the ominous black bag must have felt it was okay to do that, that the queen will understand. And the Queen took it in stride. Thank God it was nothing more than some Tea Towels the woman probably made with her hands specially for the Queen.  But why the black bag?  Was that symbolic?  Funny, though, a young White woman who tried to get close to the queen was immediately stopped by two policemen and hauled away.  Is that reverse discrimination or what or age discrimination.  The little old lady got her way but the young woman did not. Well let's say age before beauty.
   Saturday July 3,  was one of the most humid days I have experienced in Winnipeg.  It was hot and steamy but people came and positioned themselves for up to seven hours before the Queen's scheduled appearance and these were no young chicks but the elderly.  They braved everything to see the Queen.  A beautiful garden of pink and mauve flowers including the ruby red hibiscus sprung to life suddenly and created a lovely ambiance for the queen who was seated beside the stage in a little white tent with satin covered chairs.
   The great-great grand daughter of Queen Victoria, the Queen who ended slavery, and who promoted equality and diversity, Queen Elizabeth has continued that trend and during her reign many wrongs were righted within the colonies. I know many people will not agree and of the opinion that the colonies were freed because they were becoming too expensive to maintain. I maintain that Queen Elizabeth is a benevolent Monarch and I like her and was glad for the opportunity to see her again.   I saw her about thirty years ago when she visited the Caribbean, missed her when she came to Canada 8 years ago.
    I hope she might defy all odds and make another visit before she hangs up her crown. She looks so well for her age - 84 years, May the Lord continue to bless and keep her for as long as possible because her presence in the world has an impact.

Woman handing the Queen a bag with tea-towels - how sweet!

Senegal-Mauritania: Transit countries to Europe with high levels of migrant women - Gender and Migration Virtual Community

Senegal-Mauritania: Transit countries to Europe with high levels of migrant women - Gender and Migration Virtual Community

Nepal: Women Migrant Workers (Video) | UN Dispatch

Immigration is women's issues. Check out this video
Nepal: Women Migrant Workers (Video) UN Dispatch

Historic move in the right direction by United Nationas

I welcome today’s vote by the 64th General Assembly to merge the four gender entities of the United Nations into UN Women — the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. I am grateful to Member States for having taken this major step forward for the world’s women and girls. I thank Ambassador Tiina Intelmann of Estonia and Ambassador Ghazi Jomaa of Tunisia for their determination and skill in guiding the negotiations to this positive outcome.

Today’s action does more than consolidate United Nations offices, it consolidates United Nations strengths. UN Women will significantly boost UN efforts to promote gender equality, expand opportunity, and tackle discrimination around the globe. It is also an important step in our wider effort to strengthen UN system-wide coherence to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

UN Women is a recognition of a simple truth: Equality for women and girls is not only a basic human right, it is a social and economic imperative. Where women are educated and empowered, economies are more productive and strong. Where women are fully represented, societies are more peaceful and stable.


That is why I have made gender equality and the empowerment of women one of my top priorities — from working to end the scourge of violence against women, to appointing more women to senior positions, to efforts to reduce maternal mortality rates.

Our challenge now is to make UN Women fully operational. I will continue my outreach with Member States and civil society in seeking a dynamic Under-Secretary-General to lead UN Women. I commend the leadership and staff of DAW, INSTRAW, OSAGI and UNIFEM for their commitment to the cause of gender equality; I will count on their support as we enter a new era in the UN’s work for women.

Once again, I salute the General Assembly for its action. Women of the world look to the United Nations for leadership — and Member States have delivered.

Ban Ki-moon

UN Secretary-General

Saturday, July 03, 2010

Say No Violence against Women and Girls

UNIFEM Executive Director Inés Alberdi:


New UN Gender Entity a Historic Step for Gender Equality and

the Empowerment of Women



Dear Say NO friends and partners,



Today is a historic day. This afternoon, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously decided to establish UN Women, the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. The creation of a strong UN organization that will be a champion to promote and advance the rights of women and girls worldwide has been a goal we have been advocating for many years, and I know that you will join me in celebrating and embracing this momentous achievement.



As many of you will know, UN Women will merge UNIFEM with its three existing sister UN entities working on gender issues – the Division for the Advancement of Women (DAW); the Office of the Special Advisor for Gender Issues (OSAGI); and the UN International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (INSTRAW). For many years, we have effectively worked with national, regional and global partners to generate a stronger public policy response to previously under-recognized women's rights issues, such as ending violence against women, increasing women's political participation, and prioritizing women's leadership in forging peace and security.



At the same time, we have faced serious challenges in our efforts to support countries to implement commitments to gender equality, in part because of inadequate funding and because there was no single recognized driver to lead the UN response for gender equality support. This is why we wholeheartedly joined women’s rights advocates and UN Member States in the call to strengthen the UN system to render even stronger support to the advancement of gender equality.



Today marks a great new beginning, not an end. The kind of work that UNIFEM has supported will continue as we merge into an institution that will be more robust and coherent, better positioned and resourced than the sum of its constituent parts. Through UN Women, we will be stronger in our mutual goal to end violence against women. Let’s seize this moment, and the momentum, and work with renewed energy and enthusiasm.



Inés Alberdi

Executive Director, UNIFEM

Friday, July 02, 2010

BBC News - Southport deputy head admits encouraging child rape

One of the dangers of pornography. How far will sick people go to get their fix of it. Anyone who thinks that pornography is an adult pleasure should think again of what it does to the souls of folks.
BBC News - Southport deputy head admits encouraging child rape

BBC - Manchester historian deciphers hidden 'Plato Code'

BBC - Manchester historian deciphers hidden 'Plato Code'

Canada Day In Winnipeg

There was a lot going on in Winnipeg on Canada Day. Sections of the Osborne street were closed off and people were selling their stuff while others were entertaining.  I had an early start with breakfast at Stella's on Sherbrooke, a great place to start your day. Of course it was packed with lively people feeding their faces on the delicious cuisine they serve there. It's not that the food is all that different from other places but the atmosphere is what's get you.  You feel like you're in some cafe in England, France or Italy, some exotic place for the time being and you're caught up in the moment and the buzz of conversations around you.
   From there my friend and I went over to Osborne and walked around for a bit. Parking was hellish and being Winnipeggers, people are cheap and even though there was paid parking at Safeway - raising funds for Muscular Dystrophy research - many people chose to park in the free section by Starbucks which was for one-hour - there were signs of the one-hour limit prominent every where.  Some people ignored the sign to their detriment.  I saw another car parked right up under the Stop Sign  with a parking ticket on it. Two cars were towed away by Dr. Hook at Starbucks before my eye.  I said to myself that would teach these cheapskates - instead of paying $5.00 they'll pay ten times that for illegal parking. 
    There was a little drizzle but the sun came back with a vengeance and giving us all she's got it seemed.
    From there I headed to the Forks that was teaming with people all over and entertainment was all over the place. I had to get out of there - no I couldn't live in China or India where people are everywhere all the time. Later in the evening I positioned myself on the bridge for the fireworks. This was suggested to me by a friend. I had always stayed in the Park to watch the fireworks but I believe this was my best view ever. It is a hidden secret.  From the St. Mary's  bridge you see everything so clearly, it's amazing. The fireworks were wonderful - spectacular indeed.   All in all it was a great Canada Day. I had a lot of fun.
     Winnipeg is fun in the sun during the summer. It is the place to be. I won't be anywhere but Winnipeg. This is only the beginning. The fringe, jazz, folk-festival, folklorama are all on the horizon. Here we come Winnipeg.

The Bather - Leo Mol sculpture

I had the good fortune of meeting the late Leo Mol, sculptor extraordinaire.  He was a simple humble man but you knew you stood in the presence of greatness. He was speaking to a group of students at the Convention Centre who were attending the Creative Foundation Conference for students and the President at the time Yisa Akinbolaji, invited Leo to speak to the students. Leo was like a superstar, the students were asking for his phone number and posing for picture with him and it was all good.
I have gone many times to sit in the Leo Mol Gardens at the Assiniboine park and just marvel at the man's talent and his generosity to donate all those sculptures to the Park.  It was very disturbing to learn that someone tried to steal one of the statutes. How absolutely silly for someone to haul a heavy thing like that and dump in behind Furby street. Did they think they could get away with it and sell it underground? Who would put out good money for a statute that will surely be had to remain hidden for centuries because Leo Mol statutes are not reproduced anywhere and someone and it would have been discovered.
    Why do people do such foolish things?  It boggles the mind.  Anyway I am so glad that the statute has been returned. It is hoped that if the Park discovers the culprits who did this  that they will be banned from entering the park for a long time.   Thanks Leo Mol for making this world a better place with your wonderful art and imagination.

Garbage Everywhere after Canada Day

Every time there is a public celebration you can find garbage all over the place. I think it is time that people learn that common decency applies even during these festivities and that they should not throw garbage about.  Walking to work, I could see owners of businesses sweeping away strewn paper, paper cups, bottles etc.  It takes a lot of work.  If we all did our part we could all enjoy ourselves and respect the environment. 
    Perhaps there needs to be more garbage containers around and perhaps if a few students could be hired to make frequent announcements reminding people not to litter, it might not be so bad.  We can all be shamed into putting our garbage in the proper place. We are living in a civilized society but each time there is a public  community festivity we seem to revert to our animal instincts. Okay, I get it. Then these town-criers would help us to remember that we are in fact human beings.