March 18, 2013

CANADA AND MANITOBA RECOGNIZE THE NEW PROFESSORSHIP IN AGRICULTURAL RISK MANAGEMENT AND INSURANCE

Ottawa, Ontario, March 18, 2013– The governments of Canada and Manitoba today recognized the creation of a new Guy Carpenter Professorship in Agriculture Risk Management and Insurance in the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba.
“Our government’s top priority is the economy, and agriculture plays a vital role in driving the economy here in Manitoba and across Canada,” said federal Agriculture Canada Minister Gerry Ritz. “We are proud of this endeavour that has governments and industry groups, the academic community and the private sector working together to develop new risk management tools for our hardworking farmers.”
“We are committed to giving producers the resources they need to make insurance their first line of defence when it comes to managing their risk,” said Ron Kostyshyn, minister of Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives. “This professorship will be key in advancing risk management in our province for producers and help address the unique risk needs of Manitoba's diverse agriculture. The research conducted by the Guy Carpenter Professorship will add tremendous value to the agriculture sector in Canada by contributing to innovative risk management policy.”
“Just like the Asper Business School itself, the professorship is an important bridge between business and agriculture. The Asper Business School is very much looking forward to working with Professor Lysa Porth as the inaugural Guy Carpenter Professorship,” said Michael Benarroch, dean and CA Manitoba chair in business leadership. “Her background and expertise in agricultural risk management will be a great addition to our university and faculty.”
The Professorship position will also include supervision of graduate students in the newly created Master of Actuarial Mathematics program in the Warren Centre of Actuarial Studies.
Dr. Porth was awarded her doctorate in 2011 from the University of Manitoba and the Warren Centre for Actuarial Studies and Research in the Asper School of Business. She holds an MBA with a thesis option in management science and a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) in financial and actuarial studies from the Asper School of Business. Since August 2011, she has been an assistant professor in the department of statistics and actuarial science at the University of Waterloo. Porth started her role in the professorship on February 1, 2013.

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March 18, 2013

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT WORKS WITH OTHER PROVINCES TO SECURE LOWER DRUG PRICES FOR MANITOBANS

– – –
Families, Taxpayers to Benefit From Over $9 Million in Annual Savings on Six Generic Drugs: Minister

By striking a partnership with other provinces, Manitoba has secured a lower price for six generic drugs and created over $9 million in annual savings for Manitobans and the provincial pharmacare program, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
“Provincial governments are working together to lower drug costs and create savings for families,” said Oswald.  “At the same time, this partnership is lowering the costs governments pay through their pharmacare plans, creating further savings that can be reinvested in drug programs.  We will continue to pursue every opportunity to lower drug costs for Manitobans.”
Last summer, premiers directed health ministers to choose commonly used generic drugs and pursue better pricing for all jurisdictions.  This resulted in the Pan-Canadian Competitive Value Price Initiative for Generic Drugs, which has successfully negotiated lower prices on these six drugs to about one‑fifth of the price of the equivalent brand-name products.  These are the lowest generic prices achieved so far by provincial and territorial drug plans.
The lower prices apply to all Manitobans, whether they have drug coverage through pharmacare, private plans or pay themselves.  It’s estimated that all Manitobans will save nearly $6 million and Manitoba drug programs, including pharmacare, will save over $3.2 million every year as a result of this change.
The generic drugs included in the first phase of the pan-Canadian partnership are:

• Atorvastatin, to treat high cholesterol;
• Ramipril, to treat blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions;
• Venlafaxine, to treat depression and other mental-health conditions;
• Amlodipine, to treat high blood pressure and angina; and
• Omeprazole and Rabeprazole, both used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcers.

The changes will come into effect on April 1.

The minister noted she met with her colleagues from other provinces last week and they agreed to continue to work together to negotiate better drug prices for all jurisdictions.
Pharmacare is a universal, comprehensive prescription drug program for Manitobans with benefits based on family income.  It covers 100 per cent of eligible drug costs once the income-based deductible is reached, regardless of medical condition or age.  More information on the Manitoba Pharmacare Program is available at www.gov.mb.ca/health/pharmacare.
According to the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association, generic drugs accounted for 65.1 per cent of prescriptions in Manitoba in 2011, the highest use of generics in Canada.

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Health Minister Theresa Oswald joins Stonewall mayor Ross Thompson, paramedics and other guests to officially open the new crew quarters at the community's EMS station

March 19, 2013

NEW EMS CREW QUARTERS OPEN IN STONEWALL

STONEWALL—Emergency medical service (EMS) crew members who serve Stonewall and surrounding areas now have a place to call home with the official opening of the new $288,000 crew quarters and training area, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced here today.
“This investment builds on our commitment to renew key health-care infrastructure in rural areas and ensures paramedics have a comfortable and efficient space when they are working,” said Oswald.  “This is an essential facility for dedicated EMS staff who provide around-the-clock emergency response to their communities.”
The new facility is attached to the existing two-bay ambulance garage on the site of the Stonewall and District Health Centre.  It includes work and rest areas for full-time and casual EMS staff.
“On-call work is demanding and this is especially true for our paramedics,” said John Stinson, chief executive officer of the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority.  “This new work space provides our EMS team with an environment that ensures they are at their best when responding to emergency calls in our communities.”
This EMS crew was dispatched to over 1,100 calls in 2012 and serves the communities of Stonewall, Stony Mountain, Argyle, Balmoral and Rosser as well as the rural municipalities of Rockwood, Rosser and Woodlands.  The crew quarters were built to achieve Manitoba Hydro’s Power Smart Building Designation, featuring high efficiency windows, doors, heating and lighting.
Oswald said work is also underway to develop a new EMS station to serve the community of St. Laurent.
The minister said Manitoba continues to make strategic investments in emergency medical services including:

• investing approximately $10 million annually to introduce a helicopter EMS program;
• introducing the southern air ambulance inter-facility transport initiative, which covers the cost of flights to Winnipeg for medical testing and treatment for patients who would otherwise face an ambulance ride in excess of two and a half hours from their local hospital or personal care home to Winnipeg;  
• providing $9.7 million to purchase and retrofit a replacement Lifeflight jet that will provide life‑saving medical care and transportation from isolated rural hospitals and nursing stations to care centres in Winnipeg;
• replacing the entire ambulance fleet since 1999, replacing 60 of those units again since 2009 and adding 15 new ambulances to bring the total fleet to 175; 
• permanently hiring additional paramedics provincewide and partnering with Red River College to deliver a primary-care paramedic program at the college’s main campus and at three rural and northern sites; and
• providing an estimated $7 million each year to fund the full patient cost of inter-facility transports.

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March 19, 2013

GRAND OPENING OF THE NEECHI COMMONS COMMUNITY BUSINESS COMPLEX IN WINNIPEG

Winnipeg, Manitoba— The Neechi Commons Community Business Complex in Winnipeg officially opened today during an all-day celebration.
This 50,000 square foot property in Winnipeg’s North End was transformed into a complex that includes a neighbourhood supermarket, a cafeteria-style restaurant, a produce courtyard that features local fruit and vegetables, a bakery, specialty boutiques, an Aboriginal arts centre, and a farmers’ market. It will also provide local employment and training opportunities in the community. In addition, the complex will be a catalyst for revitalization of the local and commercial area.
“Our Government is proud to invest in this important community project that will create jobs and strengthen the local economy,” said the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport) and Member of Parliament for Charleswood - St. James - Assiniboia.  “This complex will provide access to grocery and other food services where there were none, as well as create good employment and training opportunities for the local community.”
“It’s encouraging to see locally driven projects like Neechi Food Co-Op become a reality,” said Minister of Children and Youth Opportunities Kevin Chief. “This is a wonderful example of the great things that can be accomplished through collaborative partnerships between government and local communities. The province will continue to provide funding support for exciting economic ventures like this.”
This community business complex will have a strong local development impact on Winnipeg’s Main Street and nearby neighbourhoods. It will promote regionally harvested and processed foods and cultivate strong cooperative relationships and community spirit.
“The infrastructure grants from the federal and provincial governments played a key role in the creation of Neechi Commons and helped to make years of work by members of the cooperative and other volunteers worthwhile,” noted the president of Neechi Foods Co-Op Ltd., Louise Champagne.
The governments of Canada and Manitoba each committed $1.3 million in funding under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund toward the eligible costs of this project. The Manitoba government provided an additional $1 million, while the Neechi Commons group provided the remainder of the funding. The total cost of the construction for the project was $6.8 million.
As part of the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund supported more than 4,000 infrastructure projects across the country. Together, the federal government and Province of Manitoba committed close to $280 million to 111 projects under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund across Manitoba.
For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with Web feeds, visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca.
To learn more about Manitoba’s infrastructure projects, please visit www.infrastructure.mb.ca.

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March 19, 2013

PROFITS FROM CRIMINAL ACTIVITY TO BE REINVESTED TO FIGHT CRIME,

SUPPORT VICTIMS: SWAN

The proceeds from property forfeited to the province under the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act will be made available to Manitoba’s police services and victim service providers for the second time in a year, Justice Minister Andrew Swan announced today.
“Manitoba’s criminal property legislation continues to be a powerful tool to take the profit out of crime,” said Swan.  “Proceeds of crime are being redirected to make our communities safer for Manitoba families.”
The money comes from the province’s criminal property forfeiture trust fund.  Under the Act, the province can seize certain unclaimed assets through an administrative process or apply for a court order to seize the profits from unlawful activities, property bought with those profits and property used to commit crime.  
In keeping with the legislation, the province is inviting law enforcement agencies to submit applications for funding to support initiatives that enhance their practices and training, or reduce or prevent crime.  A portion of the funds may also be paid to the province’s Victims’ Assistance Fund under the Victims’ Bill of Rights to support programs and services that benefit victims of crime.
Applications from law enforcement agencies are due by April 19.  A committee will review submissions and successful proposals will be announced in the coming months.
To date, more than $930,000 in grants has been allocated across the province, Swan said.  Previous grants include funds for a Zodiac boat for the Selkirk RCMP detachment, equipment to enhance and improve use-of-force instruction at the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) training academy, scanning sonar for the WPS Underwater Search and Recovery Unit and a fingerprint fuming chamber for the joint Brandon Police Service and RCMP identification unit.  Since 2010, over $4.5 million in assets have been successfully forfeited to Manitoba through the civil court and administrative forfeiture process under the act.

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Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief took part in the grand opening of the Neechi Commons Community Business Complex in Winnipeg’s North End, which houses a neighbourhood supermarket, restaurant, bakery, Aboriginal arts centre, farmers' market, local produce stands and boutiques. (L to R: Winnipeg City Councillor Ross Eadie, Manitoba Metis Federation President, David Chartrand, Neechi Foods President Louise Champagne, Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief)

March 19, 2013

GRAND OPENING OF THE NEECHI COMMONS COMMUNITY BUSINESS COMPLEX IN WINNIPEG

Winnipeg, Manitoba— The Neechi Commons Community Business Complex in Winnipeg officially opened today during an all-day celebration.
This 50,000 square foot property in Winnipeg’s North End was transformed into a complex that includes a neighbourhood supermarket, a cafeteria-style restaurant, a produce courtyard that features local fruit and vegetables, a bakery, specialty boutiques, an Aboriginal arts centre, and a farmers’ market. It will also provide local employment and training opportunities in the community. In addition, the complex will be a catalyst for revitalization of the local and commercial area.
“Our Government is proud to invest in this important community project that will create jobs and strengthen the local economy,” said the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport) and Member of Parliament for Charleswood - St. James - Assiniboia.  “This complex will provide access to grocery and other food services where there were none, as well as create good employment and training opportunities for the local community.”
“It’s encouraging to see locally driven projects like Neechi Food Co-Op become a reality,” said Minister of Children and Youth Opportunities Kevin Chief. “This is a wonderful example of the great things that can be accomplished through collaborative partnerships between government and local communities. The province will continue to provide funding support for exciting economic ventures like this.”
This community business complex will have a strong local development impact on Winnipeg’s Main Street and nearby neighbourhoods. It will promote regionally harvested and processed foods and cultivate strong cooperative relationships and community spirit.
“The infrastructure grants from the federal and provincial governments played a key role in the creation of Neechi Commons and helped to make years of work by members of the cooperative and other volunteers worthwhile,” noted the president of Neechi Foods Co-Op Ltd., Louise Champagne.
The governments of Canada and Manitoba each committed $1.3 million in funding under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund toward the eligible costs of this project. The Manitoba government provided an additional $1 million, while the Neechi Commons group provided the remainder of the funding. The total cost of the construction for the project was $6.8 million.
As part of the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund supported more than 4,000 infrastructure projects across the country. Together, the federal government and Province of Manitoba committed close to $280 million to 111 projects under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund across Manitoba.
For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with Web feeds, visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca.
To learn more about Manitoba’s infrastructure projects, please visit www.infrastructure.mb.ca.

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Education Minister Nancy Allan Announces Parent Supports to Help Deal With Bullying (L to R Education Minister Nancy Allan, Judith Cameron, President of Manitoba Association of Parent Councils, Dr. Mary Hall, Director of Safe Schools Manitoba

Taxpayers pay through the nose

http://www.winnipegsun.com/2013/03/13/rrc-resident-stephanie-forsyth-billed-78k-in-expenses

You's think we're rich to afford some of the luxuries some workers charge to us. What the heck happening here. First it's the Senators and now this?

March 13, 2013

MANITOBA GOVERNMENT CONCERNED WITH PROPOSED COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELLING REGULATIONS

– – –
Proposed Changes will Discriminate Against Manitoba Hog, Cattle Producers: Kostyshyn

During a trade mission to Minnesota yesterday, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn expressed concerns with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s proposed changes to the United States’ country of origin labelling (COOL) regulations.
“Manitoba hog and cattle producers have already been hit hard by COOL regulations in the United States and these proposed measures will increase discrimination against livestock from Manitoba,” said Kostyshyn.  “Imposing more barriers and costly changes on U.S. processors who rely on the Canada-U.S. livestock sector is bad for both countries’ economies.”
The World Trade Organization (WTO) ruled last June that COOL discriminates against exports of Canadian livestock.  In Manitoba’s view, the U.S. will not be in compliance with this ruling if it goes through with the proposed changes.  In fact, these changes would worsen the negative impact on Manitoba hog and cattle producers by making the COOL system even more complicated, the minister said.
The Government of Canada has already expressed extreme disappointment with these proposed changes.
“I support Minister Ritz’s position on these changes,” said Kostyshyn.  “I commit to continuing our close working relationship with the federal government to stand up for our livestock producers.”
Kostyshyn expressed his concerns with the proposed changes to United States agricultural officials and industry representatives while on his trade mission to Minneapolis yesterday.  The trade mission’s goal was to promote and establish new areas of collaboration and partnerships with the United States.

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March 13, 2013

FIRST ADULT ABUSE REGISTRY IN CANADA PROTECTS VULNERABLE MANITOBANS: MINISTERS

Manitoba’s adult abuse registry, the first of its kind in Canada, is now in place to help protect vulnerable adults and patients living in health-care settings from abuse and neglect, Health Minister Theresa Oswald and Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard announced today.
The registry will help protect Manitobans by preventing individuals who abuse or neglect vulnerable people from working with them in the future, Oswald said, adding the names of individuals who have abused or neglected adults with an intellectual disability began to be placed on the registry in January, when it became operational.
“This regulatory change builds on the important work already being done by the Protection for Persons in Care Office as they investigate reports of abuse and help protect Manitobans living in health-care settings,” said Oswald.  “Reporting to the registry adds another layer of protection for adult Manitobans and empowers the PPCO to do more on their behalf.”
New regulations coming into effect on March 15 would require the province’s Protection for Persons in Care Office (PPCO) to refer cases where an individual was found to have abused or neglected a patient in a hospital or personal care home to the registry, where a committee would decide whether or not to include the name.
“The ultimate goal of this new registry is to be the first tool employers use to screen new hires and protect Manitobans in their care from potential abuse or neglect,” said Howard.  “At the same time, we are fulfilling our commitment to Manitobans living with intellectual disabilities and their families, so they can feel more comfortable with the people providing such important care and support.”
Individuals convicted of an offence against a vulnerable person are automatically placed on the registry.  Where there is no conviction, the name of an individual can also be referred to the appointed adult abuse registry committee to determine whether they should be included.  Fees for registry checks will be waived for volunteers.
For more information about the adult abuse registry, visit: www.manitoba.ca/fs/pwd/adult_abuse_registry.html.
For more information about the Protection for Persons in Care Office, visit: www.manitoba.ca/health/protection.
The definition of an individual with intellectual disabilities is set out under the Vulnerable Persons Living with a Mental Disability Act.

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March 11, 2013

CANADA AND MANITOBA PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR NEW AFFORDABLE SENIORS HOUSING IN DAUPHIN

Dauphin, Manitoba — The Governments of Canada and Manitoba will provide $2.4 million to the Kinsman Villa Group to help develop 40 units of affordable housing for seniors at the Mountain View apartment complex.
Manitoba’s Minister of Finance, the Honourable Stan Struthers, on behalf of Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, and Robert Sopuck, Member of Parliament for Dauphin‑Swan River-Marquette,on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), made the funding announcement today in Dauphin.
“By building more affordable housing we are helping seniors stay close to their families and friends,” said Minister Struthers. “When seniors can be assured of safe, high-quality housing, they can continue to live with dignity and maintain strong roots in their communities.”
“Our Government is committed to working with Manitoba to develop and implement local solutions to housing,” said MP Sopuck. “This investment will continue to help residents of Dauphin access safe and affordable housing that meets their needs.”
“This project addresses an urgent need for more affordable seniors housing in our area. This is being made possible by the great partnership between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba, along with the City of Dauphin, the Kinsmen Villa Group and all future tenants who will call Mountain View Villa their home,” said Bev Sarkonak, Project Manager for Mountain View Villa Inc.
Mountain View Villa will be a three-storey, 41,440-square-foot complex located on a three-acre site on Whitmore Avenue East in Dauphin. The villa will provide 29 two-bedroom and 11 one‑bedroom apartment homes with a private patio or balcony and in-suite laundry. The units will be designed for accessibility and will meet Power Smart standards. The Villa is a senior’s life-lease project.

The funding comes as a result of the $62-million Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba. The Province of Manitoba will use the funds under the new agreement to build more affordable housing and upgrade existing housing to ensure low-income Manitobans can provide safe, stable homes for their families.
The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of almost 605,000 households living in existing social housing. In Manitoba, this represents some 40,700 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people.
HOMEWorks! is Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy. Under this strategy, the province, through Manitoba Housing continues to make significant investments in social and affordable housing. The province has committed to the development of 1,500 affordable housing units across the province and is well underway towards the construction of over 1,000 of these homes. HOMEWorks! supports ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty-reduction strategy, by increasing the supply of quality, affordable housing for low-income Manitobans. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing.
To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

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Manitoba and Canada provide support for new affordable housing in Dauphin. In attendance at the announcement (left to right) Stan Struthers, Manitoba’s Minister of Finance, Bev Sarkonak-Project Manager, Mountain View Villa Inc.,Gail Hrehirchuk - Chair of Mountain View Villa Inc.

March 11, 2013

CANADA AND MANITOBA PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR NEW AFFORDABLE SENIORS HOUSING IN DAUPHIN

Dauphin, Manitoba — The Governments of Canada and Manitoba will provide $2.4 million to the Kinsman Villa Group to help develop 40 units of affordable housing for seniors at the Mountain View apartment complex.
Manitoba’s Minister of Finance, the Honourable Stan Struthers, on behalf of Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, and Robert Sopuck, Member of Parliament for Dauphin‑Swan River-Marquette,on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), made the funding announcement today in Dauphin.
“By building more affordable housing we are helping seniors stay close to their families and friends,” said Minister Struthers. “When seniors can be assured of safe, high-quality housing, they can continue to live with dignity and maintain strong roots in their communities.”
“Our Government is committed to working with Manitoba to develop and implement local solutions to housing,” said MP Sopuck. “This investment will continue to help residents of Dauphin access safe and affordable housing that meets their needs.”
“This project addresses an urgent need for more affordable seniors housing in our area. This is being made possible by the great partnership between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba, along with the City of Dauphin, the Kinsmen Villa Group and all future tenants who will call Mountain View Villa their home,” said Bev Sarkonak, Project Manager for Mountain View Villa Inc.
Mountain View Villa will be a three-storey, 41,440-square-foot complex located on a three-acre site on Whitmore Avenue East in Dauphin. The villa will provide 29 two-bedroom and 11 one‑bedroom apartment homes with a private patio or balcony and in-suite laundry. The units will be designed for accessibility and will meet Power Smart standards. The Villa is a senior’s life-lease project.

The funding comes as a result of the $62-million Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba. The Province of Manitoba will use the funds under the new agreement to build more affordable housing and upgrade existing housing to ensure low-income Manitobans can provide safe, stable homes for their families.
The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of almost 605,000 households living in existing social housing. In Manitoba, this represents some 40,700 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people.
HOMEWorks! is Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy. Under this strategy, the province, through Manitoba Housing continues to make significant investments in social and affordable housing. The province has committed to the development of 1,500 affordable housing units across the province and is well underway towards the construction of over 1,000 of these homes. HOMEWorks! supports ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty-reduction strategy, by increasing the supply of quality, affordable housing for low-income Manitobans. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing.
To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

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March 11, 2013 CANADA AND MANITOBA PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR NEW AFFORDABLE SENIORS HOUSING IN DAUPHIN Dauphin, Manitoba — The Governments of Canada and Manitoba will provide $2.4 million to the Kinsman Villa Group to help develop 40 units of affordable housing for seniors at the Mountain View apartment complex. Manitoba’s Minister of Finance, the Honourable Stan Struthers, on behalf of Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, and Robert Sopuck, Member of Parliament for Dauphin‑Swan River-Marquette,on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), made the funding announcement today in Dauphin. “By building more affordable housing we are helping seniors stay close to their families and friends,” said Minister Struthers. “When seniors can be assured of safe, high-quality housing, they can continue to live with dignity and maintain strong roots in their communities.” “Our Government is committed to working with Manitoba to develop and implement local solutions to housing,” said MP Sopuck. “This investment will continue to help residents of Dauphin access safe and affordable housing that meets their needs.” “This project addresses an urgent need for more affordable seniors housing in our area. This is being made possible by the great partnership between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba, along with the City of Dauphin, the Kinsmen Villa Group and all future tenants who will call Mountain View Villa their home,” said Bev Sarkonak, Project Manager for Mountain View Villa Inc. Mountain View Villa will be a three-storey, 41,440-square-foot complex located on a three-acre site on Whitmore Avenue East in Dauphin. The villa will provide 29 two-bedroom and 11 one‑bedroom apartment homes with a private patio or balcony and in-suite laundry. The units will be designed for accessibility and will meet Power Smart standards. The Villa is a senior’s life-lease project. The funding comes as a result of the $62-million Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba. The Province of Manitoba will use the funds under the new agreement to build more affordable housing and upgrade existing housing to ensure low-income Manitobans can provide safe, stable homes for their families. The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of almost 605,000 households living in existing social housing. In Manitoba, this represents some 40,700 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people. HOMEWorks! is Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy. Under this strategy, the province, through Manitoba Housing continues to make significant investments in social and affordable housing. The province has committed to the development of 1,500 affordable housing units across the province and is well underway towards the construction of over 1,000 of these homes. HOMEWorks! supports ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty-reduction strategy, by increasing the supply of quality, affordable housing for low-income Manitobans. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing. To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca. -30-

March 11, 2013

CANADA AND MANITOBA PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR NEW AFFORDABLE SENIORS HOUSING IN DAUPHIN

Dauphin, Manitoba — The Governments of Canada and Manitoba will provide $2.4 million to the Kinsman Villa Group to help develop 40 units of affordable housing for seniors at the Mountain View apartment complex.

Manitoba’s Minister of Finance, the Honourable Stan Struthers, on behalf of Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, and Robert Sopuck, Member of Parliament for Dauphin‑Swan River-Marquette,on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), made the funding announcement today in Dauphin.

“By building more affordable housing we are helping seniors stay close to their families and friends,” said Minister Struthers. “When seniors can be assured of safe, high-quality housing, they can continue to live with dignity and maintain strong roots in their communities.”

“Our Government is committed to working with Manitoba to develop and implement local solutions to housing,” said MP Sopuck. “This investment will continue to help residents of Dauphin access safe and affordable housing that meets their needs.”

“This project addresses an urgent need for more affordable seniors housing in our area. This is being made possible by the great partnership between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba, along with the City of Dauphin, the Kinsmen Villa Group and all future tenants who will call Mountain View Villa their home,” said Bev Sarkonak, Project Manager for Mountain View Villa Inc.

Mountain View Villa will be a three-storey, 41,440-square-foot complex located on a three-acre site on Whitmore Avenue East in Dauphin. The villa will provide 29 two-bedroom and 11 one‑bedroom apartment homes with a private patio or balcony and in-suite laundry. The units will be designed for accessibility and will meet Power Smart standards. The Villa is a senior’s life-lease project.

The funding comes as a result of the $62-million Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba. The Province of Manitoba will use the funds under the new agreement to build more affordable housing and upgrade existing housing to ensure low-income Manitobans can provide safe, stable homes for their families.

The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of almost 605,000 households living in existing social housing. In Manitoba, this represents some 40,700 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people.

HOMEWorks! is Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy. Under this strategy, the province, through Manitoba Housing continues to make significant investments in social and affordable housing. The province has committed to the development of 1,500 affordable housing units across the province and is well underway towards the construction of over 1,000 of these homes. HOMEWorks! supports ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty-reduction strategy, by increasing the supply of quality, affordable housing for low-income Manitobans. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

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March 11, 2013 CANADA AND MANITOBA PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR NEW AFFORDABLE SENIORS HOUSING IN DAUPHIN Dauphin, Manitoba — The Governments of Canada and Manitoba will provide $2.4 million to the Kinsman Villa Group to help develop 40 units of affordable housing for seniors at the Mountain View apartment complex. Manitoba’s Minister of Finance, the Honourable Stan Struthers, on behalf of Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, and Robert Sopuck, Member of Parliament for Dauphin‑Swan River-Marquette,on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), made the funding announcement today in Dauphin. “By building more affordable housing we are helping seniors stay close to their families and friends,” said Minister Struthers. “When seniors can be assured of safe, high-quality housing, they can continue to live with dignity and maintain strong roots in their communities.” “Our Government is committed to working with Manitoba to develop and implement local solutions to housing,” said MP Sopuck. “This investment will continue to help residents of Dauphin access safe and affordable housing that meets their needs.” “This project addresses an urgent need for more affordable seniors housing in our area. This is being made possible by the great partnership between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba, along with the City of Dauphin, the Kinsmen Villa Group and all future tenants who will call Mountain View Villa their home,” said Bev Sarkonak, Project Manager for Mountain View Villa Inc. Mountain View Villa will be a three-storey, 41,440-square-foot complex located on a three-acre site on Whitmore Avenue East in Dauphin. The villa will provide 29 two-bedroom and 11 one‑bedroom apartment homes with a private patio or balcony and in-suite laundry. The units will be designed for accessibility and will meet Power Smart standards. The Villa is a senior’s life-lease project. The funding comes as a result of the $62-million Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Manitoba. The Province of Manitoba will use the funds under the new agreement to build more affordable housing and upgrade existing housing to ensure low-income Manitobans can provide safe, stable homes for their families. The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of almost 605,000 households living in existing social housing. In Manitoba, this represents some 40,700 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people. HOMEWorks! is Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy. Under this strategy, the province, through Manitoba Housing continues to make significant investments in social and affordable housing. The province has committed to the development of 1,500 affordable housing units across the province and is well underway towards the construction of over 1,000 of these homes. HOMEWorks! supports ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty-reduction strategy, by increasing the supply of quality, affordable housing for low-income Manitobans. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing. To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca. -30-

March 11, 2013

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES MORE HIGH-QUALITY, AFFORDABLE CHILD CARE FOR FAMILIES IN VITA

More families in the Vita area will soon have access to some of the best, most affordable child care in Canada, thanks to more than $200,000 from the Manitoba government to relocate and expand a child-care centre in the community and fund new child-care spaces for it, Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard announced today.
“We have one of the best child-care systems in Canada and we will continue to make it stronger by adding more high-quality, licensed, reliable child-care options for Manitoba families,” said Howard.  “In recent months, we have helped create over 160 new child-care spaces in southeast Manitoba, which means more parents are able to work while our children are getting the care they need.”
The majority of the funding announced today will go to the relocation and expansion of the Vita Community Child Care Centre, which will have 35 fully funded child-care spaces.  The province is also providing more than $3,000 for new equipment.  The construction of the Vita Community Child Care Centre at 207 Poplar St. in Vita, is also expected to receive some federal funding with the centre opening in coming weeks.
Manitoba has more than doubled annual overall funding for child care to $143 million from $70 million over the past 10 years, Howard said.  Family Choices, the province’s five-year early learning and child-care initiative, which was launched in 2008, committed to allocate funding for 6,500 quality child‑care spaces.  As part of the initiative, $37 million has also been invested in 123 capital projects across the province including 60 brand new child-care centres.
More information about Family Choices, Manitoba’s strategy to further improve child care, is available at www.gov.mb.ca/fs/childcare.

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Commonwealth Day

Statement by the Honourable Jim Karygiannis, Member of Parliament

for Scarborough-Agincourt and Liberal Critic for Multiculturalism

March 11

th is Commonwealth Day, a time to promote understanding of global issues and

international co-operation.

Canada is one of fifty-four countries that comprise the Commonwealth of Nations, a union

of nations that were part of the British Empire.

The theme of

Commonwealth Day 2013 is ‘Opportunity through Enterprise’. Enterprise

can take various forms including, cultural expression; stories of personal triumph;

economic innovation; and, commitment to issues of social justice. The spirit of such

‘enterprise’ is in keeping with the Canadian values of freedom, peace and justice.

Canada is a proud multicultural nation that embraces a wide variety of cultures and

heritages. Canadians of innumerable heritages help to foster this identity and strengthen

the fabric of our society. Members of the many Diasporas in Canada have made, and

continue to make, significant contributions in a number of areas including business, the

arts, medicine and public service.

Canada continues to attract people from all over the world. We will continue to work

together to build our nation and enhance our international reputation. As the Liberal Critic

for Multiculturalism, I look forward to our ongoing work in building a stronger Canada.

A Canada where we

Respect our neighbours, Accept our differences, Celebrate our rich diversity

and Embrace our heritage.

The

March 8, 2013

PROVINCE PARTNERS WITH PARENT COUNCILS, EDUCATORS TO PROMOTE REGULAR ATTENDANCE IN SCHOOL

– – –
Everybody in School Every Day Initiative to Reach out to Parents, Young Manitobans: Allan

The province is joining with the Manitoba Association of Parent Councils (MAPC) and educators to increase awareness of the importance of regular attendance at school for every child, Education Minister Nancy Allan announced today.
“It is very difficult to succeed in today’s world without a good education and that’s why we are joining with parent councils and schools to increase attendance,” Allan said.  “When young people attend school on a regular basis, they gain the foundation they need to get good jobs, lead productive lives and contribute to their communities.”
MAPC has created a strategy and developed supporting materials such as videos, posters and pamphlets that will be used to reach out to parents and students to help them understand the value of an education, Allan said.  The strategy, called Everybody in School Every Day, was unveiled at the annual Attendance Fair for educators, held at the Caboto Centre in Winnipeg today.
The province earmarked $200,000 in the 2011-12 budget to help improve school attendance.  Under that initiative, 15 schools each received $10,000 for two-year pilot projects and the MAPC received $50,000 to develop new ideas to increase school attendance.
The schools worked closely with Manitoba Education on attendance projects and were required to measure the progress of their projects, the minister said, adding parents, students and partner agencies were consulted as the new MAPC communications strategy was developed.
“MAPC has greatly enjoyed working with  Manitoba Education and our education partners to increase the awareness to all parents about the importance of regular daily attendance in our schools,” said Namomi Kruse, executive director, MAPC.
MAPC will contact schools to share ideas and offer supporting materials to help increase attendance. The new strategy and supporting materials will be available on the MAPC website at www.mapc.mb.ca/ and the Manitoba Education website at www.edu.gov.mb.ca/.

March 11, 2013

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES MANITOBA YOUNG AND BEGINNNING FARMERS CONFERENCE TO PREPARE NEXT GENERATION FOR AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS

– – –
Conference to Highlight Management Tools, Strategies of Farming Operations to Help Increase Young Farmers' Success: Kostyshyn

The 2013 Manitoba Young and Beginning Farmers Conference on March 13 and 14 in Brandon will help young farmers prepare for the rapidly changing business of agriculture, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.
“Young farmers taking over the family business or those new to the agriculture industry will have the opportunity to meet with and learn from producers who face the same challenges and have the same desire to succeed,” said Kostyshyn.  “This conference will highlight the management tools and strategies of farming operations that will help increase young farmers’ chance of success.”
The 2013 Manitoba Young and Beginning Farmers Conference will focus on public relations and farming operations, human resource topics and farm management issues including the legal implications of farm business decisions.  The conference will also allow participants to learn more about farm financial tools and programs.
Keynote speakers this year include Cedric MacLeod, a consulting agronomist who will share strategies and actions for improving general farm management.  John Stewart, a lawyer with a farming background, will also be speaking about organizing the structure of a farm business to withstand difficult situations, as well as succession planning.
“The continuing prosperity and growth of farming in Manitoba will depend on present and future generations of producers making sound businesses decisions,” said Kostyshyn.  “This conference is an excellent opportunity to learn how to make farm operations more efficient, exchange ideas and share information.”
The 2013 Manitoba Young and Beginning Farmers Conference is funded in part by Growing Forward, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.
For more information on the 2013 conference call 204-726-6293, call a local Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives GO office or visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/news/conferences/youngfarmerconference2013.pdf.

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International Women’s Day is celebrated at the Manitoba Legislative Building. READ MORE

March 8, 2013

PROVINCE CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY BY HONOURING WOMEN LEADING TRANSFORMATIVE CHANGE

– – –
We must Build on Their Successes, Keep Moving Forward: Howard

Manitobans are recognizing the importance of increasing women’s representation in leadership roles as a way to achieve equality in social, legal, education, health and economic fields, Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard, minister responsible for the status of women, said today as she joined the celebration marking International Women’s Day.
“To acknowledge and honour the outstanding accomplishments of women in Manitoba and around the world is only the first stage.  We must build upon their successes and keep moving forward,” said Howard.  “The movement toward gender equality has traditionally been led by women.  It is encouraging that men are becoming increasingly engaged in advancing women’s equal place in society.”
Manitoba recently launched two public awareness campaigns with this focus under a multi-year domestic violence prevention strategy.  The province worked with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Broadway Neighbourhood Centre to encourage men and boys to recognize that they can make a difference by challenging violence against women and girls.  Videos for both of these campaigns can be viewed at www.manitoba.ca/stoptheviolence. 
Howard noted, in recognizing that violence against women is everyone’s business, the province has also launcheda new page on the www.manitoba.ca/stoptheviolence  site that focuses on ways friends, family and acquaintances can help someone being abused within a relationship.
Howard recently returned from the United Nations’ 57th session of the Commission on the Status of Women in New York where Manitoba’s campaign with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers was highlighted in a session about engaging men and boys in preventing violence.
“Over the last week, I have met women and men from countries all over the world who are working to end violence against women and girls,” said Howard.  “Some of these activists risk their lives by speaking up for gender equality.  We must continue to honour their courage by making change in our institutions, communities and families to stem the global epidemic of violence against women and girls.”

At today’s event, Howard introduced the publication, Women in Manitoba:  Leading Transformative Change which highlights the progress being made on women’s equality in Manitoba, progress she said is due in large part to women’s leadership.  The publication’s topics have been identified as issues of concern by the Manitoba Women’s Advisory Council and include education and training, violence against women, poverty and economic security, and women’s health.
Featured guest speakers included Ila Bussidor, former member, Manitoba Women’s Advisory Council and former chief and band councillor, Saysi Dene First Nation; Ajit Kaur Deol, commissioner, Manitoba Human Rights Commission; Silvia de Sousa, lawyer; and Sappfyre McLeod, high school student and youth activist.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

 

A new bridge over the Red Sucker River is an important addition to Manitoba’s winter road system. Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson, Minister responsible for the East Side Road Authority (ESRA), joined ESRA CEO Ernie Gilroy, Red Sucker Lake Chief Les Harper and community members for an official ribbon-cutting event at the bridge site

March 7, 2013

FOURTH BRIDGE ON EAST SIDE ROAD SYSTEM OFFICIALLY OPEN

– – –
New Bridges Strategically Located to Extend Winter Road Season: Robinson

RED SUCKER LAKE FIRST NATION¾A new bridge over the Red Sucker River will form part of the permanent road system currently under construction while immediately helping to extend the length of time local residents and commercial truck drivers can use the winter road network, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson, minister responsible for the East Side Road Authority (ESRA), said here today as he and Ernie Gilroy, CEO of the ESRA, joined Red Sucker Lake Chief Les Harper for an official ribbon-cutting event at the bridge site.
“Winter roads are the lifelines for many remote communities and by focusing our investments on strategic locations that are impacted by early thaws, we can help extend the length of time they can be safely used,” said Robinson.  “At the same time, by working with the community, we are ensuring that local residents are benefiting from training and jobs related to one of the largest economic development initiatives in the history of this region.”
“This bridge benefits our community by increasing the time we can use the winter road network,” said Harper.  “This means lower prices for food, fuel and other goods for our residents.  At the same time, the construction of the bridge resulted in jobs and training opportunities for local people.  We look forward to working with ESRA on future projects.”
The Red Sucker River bridge project was undertaken under a community benefits agreement by a construction company owned by Red Sucker Lake First Nation and its joint venture partner Arnason Industries.  The project began in June 2012 and was recently completed.  The new bridge is a single‑lane structure, 5.3 metres wide and 61 m long.  Approximately 28 local residents were employed on the project, which is valued at about $5 million. 
“Due to the remote location of the bridge site, there were many logistical challenges related to the project,” said Gilroy.  “By working together, we were able to meet these challenges and complete the project in time for this year’s winter road season.” 
Gilroy noted that similar bridges are currently being installed at Mainland River and Feather Rapids along the winter road network.

In addition to the Acrow Bridges panel system structure at Red Sucker River, additional new bridges were recently opened to coincide with this year’s winter road season at Loon and Longbody creeks on the all-season road between PR 304 and Bloodvein First Nation.  Last year, the Wanipigow River Bridge was opened to coincide with the start of the 2012 winter road season.
With the winter road season open and all-season road construction underway, ESRA is reminding all drivers on the winter road network on the east side of Lake Winnipeg to slow down, follow all signs and use caution when approaching construction workers and equipment.

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March 7, 2013

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME RESUMES MARCH 10

Daylight saving time returns to Manitoba early in the morning of Sunday, March 10, when clocks across the province will be advanced by one hour.
Under the Official Time Act, daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March and continues until the first Sunday in November.
The official time change to daylight saving time occurs at 2 a.m., Sunday, March 10 at which time clocks should be set ahead to 3 a.m.

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March 8, 2013

PROVINCE PARTNERS WITH PARENT COUNCILS, EDUCATORS TO PROMOTE REGULAR ATTENDANCE IN SCHOOL

– – –
Everybody in School Every Day Initiative to Reach out to Parents, Young Manitobans: Allan

The province is joining with the Manitoba Association of Parent Councils (MAPC) and educators to increase awareness of the importance of regular attendance at school for every child, Education Minister Nancy Allan announced today.
“It is very difficult to succeed in today’s world without a good education and that’s why we are joining with parent councils and schools to increase attendance,” Allan said.  “When young people attend school on a regular basis, they gain the foundation they need to get good jobs, lead productive lives and contribute to their communities.”
MAPC has created a strategy and developed supporting materials such as videos, posters and pamphlets that will be used to reach out to parents and students to help them understand the value of an education, Allan said.  The strategy, called Everybody in School Every Day, was unveiled at the annual Attendance Fair for educators, held at the Caboto Centre in Winnipeg today.
The province earmarked $200,000 in the 2011-12 budget to help improve school attendance.  Under that initiative, 15 schools each received $10,000 for two-year pilot projects and the MAPC received $50,000 to develop new ideas to increase school attendance.
The schools worked closely with Manitoba Education on attendance projects and were required to measure the progress of their projects, the minister said, adding parents, students and partner agencies were consulted as the new MAPC communications strategy was developed.
“MAPC has greatly enjoyed working with  Manitoba Education and our education partners to increase the awareness to all parents about the importance of regular daily attendance in our schools,” said Namomi Kruse, executive director, MAPC.
MAPC will contact schools to share ideas and offer supporting materials to help increase attendance. The new strategy and supporting materials will be available on the MAPC website at www.mapc.mb.ca/ and the Manitoba Education website at www.edu.gov.mb.ca/.

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A true Canadian Legend Departed

I had never heard or knew much about Stompin Tom but now I wish I did. He seemed to have been a really swell guy who loved Canada and wore his nationality with pride. You must give credit to a singer songwriter who is credited with writing about 90 plus percent of his songs about Canada, the small towns and villages. That's awesome.

Tom would have been proud to see the love Canadians are pouring out to him. May this great guy RIP

http://www.torontosun.com/2013/03/07/stompin-tom-connors-a-true-canadian-rebel

Eckhart Tolle Reveals How to Silence Voices in Your Head - Super Soul Su...

How to be alone - a lovely video

http://youtu.be/k7X7sZzSXYs