Rental Guidelines for 2014

August 30, 2013

PROVINCE ADVISES MANITOBA RENT GUIDELINE SET AT TWO PER CENT FOR 2014

Manitoba Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs advises the 2014 rent guideline has been set at two per cent and will take effect Jan. 1, 2014.
The guideline is determined annually and takes into account cost increases such as utilities, property taxes and other expenses in the operation of a residential complex.  Manitoba has proposed legislation that would make future calculations as transparent as possible.  It is anticipated a prescribed formula or the consumer price index for Manitoba would be used to help determine the guideline rate.
The guideline applies to most residential rental property including apartments, single rooms, houses and duplexes.  The guideline does not apply to:

• rental units renting for $1,395 or more per month as of Dec. 31, 2013;
• personal care homes;
• non-profit housing with subsidized rent;
• approved rehabilitated rental units; and
• new buildings that are:
  • less than 15 years old, where an occupancy permit was first issued or a unit first occupied after April 9, 2001, or;
  • less than 20 years old, where an occupancy permit was first issued or a unit first occupied after March 7, 2005.

Landlords can apply for an increase above the guideline if they can show the guideline will not cover cost increases they have incurred.
Tenants must receive written notice of a rent increase at least three months before the increase takes effect.  For example, for a rent increase to take effect Jan. 1, 2014, tenants must receive notice by Sept. 30, 2013.  With few exceptions, rent can only be increased once a year.
Tenants have the right to object to any rent increase, whether it is below, at or above the guideline. Objections must be made at least 60 days before the rent increase is set to take effect.
Landlords and tenants can contact the Residential Tenancies Branch at 204-945-2476 in Winnipeg or 1-800-782-8403 (toll-free in Manitoba) to find out more about rent increases and other rights and responsibilities. Information is also available at www.manitoba.ca/rtb.

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August 30, 2013

MANITOBA CATTLE ENHANCEMENT LEVY TO END

– – –
Wind Down of the Manitoba Cattle Enhancement Coucil Begins

Upon recommendation of the Manitoba Cattle Enhancement Council (MCEC), the Farm Products Marketing Council is ending collection of the voluntary cattle enhancement levy effective Sept. 1, and this decision is supported by the province of Manitoba, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.
“The Manitoba Cattle Enhancement Council and Manitoba’s livestock producers have shown their dedication to the future of the industry and we still believe that Manitoba needs federally inspected cattle slaughter capacity,” said Kostyshyn.  “Since the federal government made the decision to withdraw their $10 million pledge, everyone has done their best to increase federal cattle slaughter capacity in Manitoba.  As a cattle producer, I believeit is now time to end the levy before the fall cattle run. We hope the federal government will come back to the table if a new opportunity arises.”
Established in the wake of the BSE crisis, the MCEC has been diligent in working with the industry to increase Manitoba’s cattle slaughter capacity.  During that time, producer levies and provincial funds provided loans to assist the expansion of provincial slaughter facilities, purchase and preparation of the Marion Street project site, and development of a new model for cattle slaughter.
“MCEC spent $5.7 million developing the Marion Street project based on the commitment that they were going to receive financing through the Federal Slaughter Improvement Program,” said Kostyshyn.  “We must now turn our attention to supporting the industry through other ways, such as strong opposition to COOL (country of origin labelling), working on insurance-based products for producers, maintaining community pastures and investing in research that will increase the resiliency and profitability of Manitoba’s livestock sector.”
An independent, third party will work with MCEC to develop a plan to wind down the organization.  The levy was voluntary and producers will maintain the right to request a rebate for levies paid over the past 12 months.  The province will work with MCEC to ensure that resources are in place to deliver refunds in a timely manner.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux today announced 14 projects in the south east sector of Winnipeg will share more than $500,000 in funding through the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program. Ecole Guyot School will receive more than $134,000 to improve the drainage of the playground, install a climbing wall and establish an outdoor classroom

 

August 28, 2013

MANITOBA BUILDING AND RENEWAL PLAN INVESTS IN RECREATION PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST WINNIPEG

– – –
Province Providing over $500,000 for Local Projects: Lemieux

The provincial government is investing in southeast Winnipeg infrastructure that will renew and revitalize many popular recreation facilities and create green spaces for local families, Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux announced today.
“We all know the benefits of exercise and recreation in a safe, healthy environment and that’s why we are pleased to invest in these facilities on behalf of families in southeast Winnipeg,” Lemieux said.  “Working with these communities, we can build stronger neighbourhoods where children can develop healthy lifestyles and strong friendships.”
The province is providing the École Guyot parent advisory council with funding to install a natural playground, which will repair existing drainage issues and make the site more accessible.  Also included in the project are 500 feet of walking and biking paths, a small hill with a six-ft. climbing wall, as well as buried tree stumps and log benches to create seating for an outdoor classroom.
Other organizations in southeast Winnipeg receiving funding include:

• Norberry–Glenlee Community Centre – to renovate the Walter Jennings Sports Facility common area and installing video surveillance;
• Greendell Park Community Centre – to renovate washrooms, outdoor rink, kitchen and basketball courts;
• Winakwa Community Centre – to renovate washrooms and providing energy-efficiency upgrades;
• Holy Cross School parent advisory council and St. Boniface Diocesan High School parents guild – to renovate gym and washrooms;
• St. Germain Daycare Centre – to enhance outdoor space;
• Norwood and St. Boniface Legion Branch #43 – to replace the banquet hall roof;
• Norwood Grove Business Improvement Zone – to construct a new picnic area and skating rink;
• Henteleff Park Foundation – to create a new interpretive centre;
• École Varennes Parent Committee – to renew a playground;
• Windsor Park Collegiate parent association – to upgrade a basketball court;
• St. Vital Mustangs – to enhance storage facilities;                                                                                         
• Conseil jeunesse provincial (Provincial Youth Council) – to hold a bike co-op workshop; and
• Centre de Renouveau Aulneau (Aulneau Renewal Centre) – to provide accessibility upgrades.

Budget 2013 and the Manitoba Building and Renewal Plan committed $7.5 million over the next three years for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program.  This new initiative is providing grants forprojects that will provide long-term recreational and wellness benefits to communities.
“I meet regularly with parent advisory councils at all our local schools because parents are the best resource for what’s working and what improvements are needed in the community,” Advanced Education and Literacy Minister Erin Selby said.  “Parents at Guyot were quick to identify drainage problems in the playground that meant children were not getting the full use of the space at lunch and recess times.  I’m pleased that by working together, we can not only solve the drainage issue but improve the school yard to allow for better use and more kids to stay active.”
The first application intake for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program began on May 22 making grants available for projects such as libraries, swimming pools and splash pads, parks, trails, community centres, sports facilities including arenas and gymnasiums, as well as other community infrastructure facilities.  The first application intake has closed and details on the next intake will be announced on the program’s website.
For more information about the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program (WCIP), go to www.gov.mb.ca/ia/wcip/index.html.                                                                                                                                                                             

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Job vacancy

St. James

‐Assiniboia 55+ Centre Job Opportunity

Foot Care Nurse

Job Type: Contract

Closing Date: September 9, 2013

Location: St. James

‐Winnipeg

Organizational Overview:

The St. James‐Assiniboia 55+ Centre is a charitable organization. Our

mission is to

encourage seniors to improve their quality of life by providing educational,

recreational, health and social opportunities. We offer over 1,000 members a variety of

programs and services with the help of over 200 volunteers. To find out more about the Centre,

please visit our website at

www.stjasc.com.

Position Overview:

The Centre is seeking driven individuals who are motivated by improving

healthcare in the community.

As a Foot Care Nurse with the Centre, you will have many opportunities to challenge yourself

through applying a broad range of skills to your work with older adults within the Centre and

the surrounding community through home visits. You possess excellent communication and

interpersonal skills.

Duties:

Providing assessments, treatments and advice on foot care to members and community

members.

Qualifications:



RN or LPN graduates who are registered with the College of Registered Nurses of

Manitoba



Possess Advanced Foot Care for Nurses certification



Hold adequate malpractice insurance coverage



Must possess and maintain appropriate equipment to provide advanced foot care

interventions in compliance with best practices



Must possess a valid driver's license and own a car



Experience with geriatric and clinically complex population



Current (within 6 months) Vulnerable Position/Sector Screening (VPS)

Application Instructions:

Please submit a cover letter and resume which clearly states how you meet qualifications

stated above along with your salary expectation

by Monday September 9, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. to:

Roxanne Greaves

‐TackieExecutive Director

August 27, 2013 MANITOBA TO FILE FACTUM ON SENATE REFORM REFERENCE IN THE SUPREME COURT OF CANADA – – – Federal Government Should Consult Provinces to Abolish Senate: Swan Manitoba’s submission, known as a factum, on the constitutionality of potential measures to reform the Senate will be filed in the Supreme Court of Canada today, Attorney General and Justice Minister Andrew Swan has announced. Manitoba, in conjunction with other provinces and territories, is intervening in the federal government’s reference question on the matter to the Supreme Court of Canada. “Here in Manitoba, the provincial senate was abolished in 1876,” said Swan. “In our view, the Senate is fundamentally flawed and it’s time to abolish it. I urge the federal government to engage the provinces in consultation with the ultimate goal of finding consensus to abolish the upper chamber.” Manitoba’s submission addresses the constitutional questions posed by the federal government to the Supreme Court of Canada. The province’s position is that Parliament does not have the constitutional authority to enact significant unilateral changes to the structure of the Senate or to the selection of its members, Swan said, adding those changes require consultation and agreement with the provinces. If there continues to be a Senate in Canada, Swan said future senators should be chosen through an election process. In 2009, Manitoba’s all-party Special Committee on Senate Reform recommended the federal government fund and administer any elections of senators in the provinces and that these elections be held in concert with federal elections during the federal election cycle. There is currently a private member’s resolution before the Manitoba legislature calling for the abolition of the Senate sponsored by James Allum, MLA for Fort Garry-Riverview. - 30 -

Sexual Harassment affects many women in Canadian Workplace

When will men learn that times have changed and women are not to be used as their sex toys in the workplace. The compensation for sexual harassment in this country is not commensurate to this egregious harm women endure. The compensation needs to be prohibitive. It should  hit the pocketbook real hard and companies should be named who condone this cave-man like behaviour in the workplace. It's time for evolution.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/27/workplace-sexual-harassment-poll_n_3823671.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000009

Upcoming Event

Hate Conference Planned for Canada FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 27, 2013, Toronto – A conference organized by the radical ‘Fatima Network’ for September 8th to 13th will be used to propagate antisemitism - contradicting to its stated goal of discussing ‘peace in the world’, according to B’nai Brith Canada. “The Fatima Network is well known for their radical views and conspiracy theories regarding the Jewish community,” said Frank Dimant, CEO, B’nai Brith Canada. “ Their websites are rife with articles and posts blaming Jews for conspiring to destroy the Catholic Church, ‘Zionist Billionaires’ for financially ‘raping’ the people of Russia since 1989, and Holocaust denial.” “With their history of open antisemitism, it should come as no surprise that this conference will be used to further radical and hateful views. Events such as these only culminate in the spreading of intolerance and prejudice – an ever increasing problem in Canada as shown by our Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents. "Often, government officials are invited to attend and speak at such events to give the organizers an air of legitimacy. This is why we have cautioned that officials not attend these types of conferences.” -30- For more information please contact: Sam Eskenasi, Communications Officer at (647) 780-8490 or communications@bnaibrith.ca B’nai Brith Canada has been active in Canada since 1875 and in Manitoba since 1909 as the Jewish community’s foremost human rights agency.

Child Psychology - tedTalk

http://www.upworthy.com/parents-joke-about-their-kids-ending-up-in-counseling-one-day-but-what-if-we-took-that-seriously-3?c=upw1

Your moods might be in your gut

http://www.theverge.com/2013/8/21/4595712/gut-feelings-the-future-of-psychiatry-may-be-inside-your-stomach

What's good for the goose is also good for the gander

Some people of colour who have been historically disadvantaged believe it is okay to make fun of white people because they have been wronged.  We are living in a new day and have to develop new ways of speaking to each other whether it is human rights or not.  It is the right thing to do.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Emailed-comment-becomes-human-rights-complaint-against-Deputy-Premier-Robinson-220851941.html

$2 million for Manitoba's Children Recreation Programs

Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief announces a provincial review of the Manitoba Policy for Recreation Opportunities. Minister Chief also noted the province has invested more than $2 million in children’s recreation programs in 2013.

 

August 23, 2013

GOVERNMENT OF MANITOBA WORKING WITH COMMUNITIES TO INCREASE RECREATION CHOICES

– – –
Province's Recreation Policy to be Updated to Improve Accessibility, Better Reflect Changing Face of Manitobans: Chief

Starting this fall, the province will begin a review of Manitoba’s Policy for Recreation Opportunities to help the government establish effective priorities that reflect the changing face of recreation across the province, Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief announced today.
“We see an increasing role for recreation in building relationships and healthy communities,” said Chief.  “And as the face of our communities is changing, so too is the way Manitobans like to spend their leisure time.  We need to stay current and responsive to emerging trends, whether that’s traditional play programs, or a game of cricket or ultimate frisbee.”
The minister noted that recreation is widely recognized as an effective tool to address community issues such as crime prevention, physical activity rates and community development.  Recreation professionals are increasingly partnering with local governments and community organizations to provide recreation programming that meets identified community needs, Chief added.
“As well as alleviating the negative pressures of poverty, recreation builds a sense of belonging across all segments of society, and we know improving accessibility to those recreation opportunities is key,” said Dennis Lewycky, executive director of the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg.  “Recreation programs offer a positive alternative, especially for kids, and we need to ensure there are opportunities available for everyone.”
The minister noted the government continues to make significant investments in recreation programming, with more than $2 million invested in children’s recreation programs this year.
This summer, provincially supported summer recreation programs include:

• The Manitoba Camping Association Sunshine Fund – underprivileged children from all parts of the province were provided the opportunity to attend an accredited Manitoba Summer Camp;
• Skateboard Ambassador and Instructional Camps in Brandon – eight youth ambassadors provided one-on-one coaching, education on skate-park etiquette, advice on proper safety equipment and also provided seven instructional skate camps in July and August to approximately 140 youth;
• Youth Leadership Base Camp in Flin Flon – a project for youth ages five to 13, which included educational activities, outdoor recreation and skill development activities, crafts, games, community volunteering and music/drama activities; and
• Youth programming at the Broadway Neighbourhood Centre in Winnipeg – activities included cooking for kids, trips to Assiniboine Park and beaches, and the Wrench Program, where participants learned to fix bicycles.

Chief said key partners will be consulted in the redevelopment of the policy, including local governments, school divisions, and sport and recreation organizations.

http://bcove.me/28d8g60z

Communities make over on the way

August 22, 2013 MANITOBA BUILDING AND RENEWAL PLAN INVESTS IN RECREATION PROJECTS IN SOUTHWEST WINNIPEG – – – Province Providing over $400,000 For Local Projects: Premier The provincial government is investing in southwest Winnipeg infrastructure that will renew and revitalize many popular recreation facilities and create green spaces for local families, Premier Greg Selinger announced today. “The projects announced today are about better opportunities for children and families to engage in healthy outdoor recreation, giving them a positive outlet for their energy and providing a focus for family entertainment,” said Selinger. “The province is pleased to invest in these important community-identified infrastructure projects that will serve the residents in the southwest sector of Winnipeg for years to come.” The province is providing the Fort Garry Lions with funding towards the installation of full field lighting on the Lions’ main football field. The project will involve the installation of four pre-cast concrete light standards, four galvanized steel light standards, 36 game lights and remote electrical component closures. The addition of lighting will significantly increase the number of hours during which the field may be used and also enlarge the number of activities for which it may be used throughout the year. Other organizations in southwest Winnipeg receiving funding include: •École Laverendrye Parent Advisory Council – enhancing École Laverendrye gymnasium; •Earl Grey Community Centre – upgrading outdoor building; •Osborne Village BIZ – creating a mural on the Gas Station Theatre; •Westdale Community Centre – expanding and enhancing sports facilities; •Linden Woods Community Centre – paving outdoor rink; •Churchill High School Parent Advisory Council – upgrading to digital sign; •Royal Canadian Legion Fort Garry Branch #90 – resurfacing parking lot; •Earl Grey School Parent Advisory Council – upgrading school grounds; •Red River Metis Group – repairing Red River carts; •Charleswood Curling Club – replacing ice surface roof and refrigeration piping; •Fort Rouge Co-op Day Nursery – creating nature based playground; •École Viscount Alexander School Ground Transformation Committee –outdoor classroom; •St. Norbert Immersion Parent Advisory Council – school yard improvements; •St. Norbert BIZ – installation of recreational public seating; •St. Avila Home and School Association – installation of bike cage; •Assiniboine Park Conservancy – Terry Fox Trail redevelopment; and •Manitoba Paddling Association – upgrading geothermal system. Budget 2013 and the Manitoba Building and Renewal Plan committed $7.5 million over the next three years for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program. This new initiative is providing grants forprojects that will provide long-term recreational and wellness benefits to communities, the premier said. “When we improve the public buildings and recreational facilities in Manitoba, we are doing great things for our communities and our economy,” said Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux. “Improvements to buildings extend their use and keep neighbourhoods attractive and vibrant. By maintaining sports facilities, we provide youth with safe, positive ways to spend their time, so they are much more likely to challenge themselves through appropriate activities that will help them succeed in life.” The first application intake for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program began on May 22, making grants available for projects such as libraries, swimming pools and splash pads, parks, trails, community centres, sports facilities including arenas and gymnasiums, as well as other community infrastructure facilities. The first application intake has closed and details on the next intake will be announced on the program’s website. For more information about the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program, go to www.gov.mb.ca/ia/wcip/index.html. - 30 -

Quotable quote

"Remember, the thoughts that you think and the statements you make regarding yourself determine your mental attitude. If you have a worthwhile objective, find the one reason why you can achieve it rather than hundreds of reasons why you can't."

Napoleon Hill

August 21, 2013 PROVINCE THANKS COMMUNITY GROUPS, PUBLIC FOR INPUT ON POVERTY STRATEGY – – – ALL Aboard Consultations to Guide Province as it Moves Forward to Help More Manitobans Leave Poverty Behind: Irvin-Ross The province is renewing its commitment to help end poverty for more Manitobans and will move forward with the guidance of consultations with the public and community groups, Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross announced today. “While the work we have done has helped to reduce poverty for many Manitobans, we know we have more work to do,” Irvin-Ross said. “The valuable insights we heard during the spring consultations will help guide our work moving forward.” More than 500 submissions made to the ALL Aboard committee, co-chaired by Irvin-Ross, have been compiled in a report entitled What we heard – Key Findings from the March 2013 ALL Aboard: Poverty Reduction and Social Inclusion Strategy Consultations. The report, which is being distributed to anti‑poverty groups and everyone who participated in the consultations, highlights the main themes gleaned from consultation sessions, written submissions and ALL Aboard survey responses. “Our government is committed to working with the community and other levels of government to tackle the root causes of poverty,” Irvin-Ross said. “Because this is a priority, we made our poverty reduction strategy law and put in place clear indicators that we use to report progress to the legislature annually. The ALL Aboard consultations this spring will help shape the province’s future work on ALL Aboard: Poverty Reduction and Social Inclusion Strategy.” The minister noted the province’s anti-poverty strategy includes: •building affordable housing for low-income families and providing support services to meet the needs of Manitobans struggling with addictions and mental-health issues; •investing in schools, colleges, universities and apprenticeships to help individuals and families obtain meaningful work; •building and improving roads, health-care centres, schools and other infrastructure to keep the unemployment rate among the lowest in Canada; •keeping Manitoba one of the most affordable places to live by keeping the provincial sales tax off of groceries, removing it from baby supplies and guaranteeing in law that Manitoba will have the lowest-cost bundle of utilities in Canada; and •investing in innovative poverty reduction initiatives such as Winnipeg’s first community food centre that will help combat hunger by bringing people together to grow, cook, share and advocate for good food. “We have seen the impact of failing to invest in affordable housing. That’s why we have made significant investments in building and renewing Manitoba Housing across the province,” Irvin-Ross said. “We know that cutting funding to education and training undermines Manitobans’ ability to get the skills they need to get good jobs. That’s why we are investing in education at the rate of economic growth as well as investing in apprenticeship programs.” What we heard – Key Finding from the March 2013 ALL Aboard: Poverty Reduction and Social Inclusion Strategy Consultations is available at www.gov.mb.ca/allaboard/consultation. More information on Manitoba’s anti-poverty strategy is available at www.manitoba.ca/allaboard. To obtain this document in an alternate format, please contact 204-945-3380 in Winnipeg or allaboard@gov.mb.ca.

Premier Greg Selinger (right) was joined by Battle of Hong Kong veteran George Peterson at the unveiling of a picture of the new commemorative plaza being built by the city and province to honour seven soldiers from Arden Avenue (the Arden 7) who all fought and were captured at the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941. Mr. Peterson is the last surviving member of the Arden

 

August 16, 2013

PROVINCE, CITY HONOUR LOCAL HONG KONG VETERANS WITH COMMEMORATIVE PLAZA

Seven young men from Arden Avenue in Winnipeg, who volunteered, fought and were captured during the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941, will be honoured with a new park plaza dedicated to their memory, Premier Greg Selinger and Mayor Sam Katz announced today.
“We are proud to honour the seven young men who as friends, neighbours and comrades joined our armed forces to battle, under the most horrific conditions, for the freedom that we now enjoy,” said Selinger.  “The peace and tranquility of this new interpretive plaza will be an appropriate place to reflect and remind all those who visit of the courage and dedication of these men.  We will remember them.”
“The story of the Arden Seven is one that all Winnipeggers should know,” said Katz.  “The Arden Seven Interpretive Plaza will honour these seven friends and brothers who fought so bravely and endured terrible conditions during their service in Hong Kong, and will serve as a permanent reminder of their courage and service.”
The men served in the Winnipeg Grenadiers during the Second World War and included Fred Abrahams (also known as Fred Harting), Bill Lancaster, twin brothers George and Morris Peterson, and brothers Alfred, Edward and Harry Shayler.  All seven survived the Battle of Hong Kong.
After 17 days of intense fighting, 290 Canadians were killed and another 493 wounded during the battle.  Those who survived were taken prisoner and endured nearly four years of captivity in Japanese prisoner-of-war and work camps.
Funding from the Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg through the Building Communities Initiative (BCI) II will provide $75,000 for the interpretative plaza to be located in Jules Mager Park, at the corner of St. Michael Road and River Road in St. Vital.  It will feature seven chairs symbolizing the seven friends who served together, landscaped berms and retaining walls, pathways and commemorative plaques in both official languages telling their story.
This project is one of 38 BCI II, Phase Two projects announced in March.  A total of $8,848,500 in community improvements throughout Winnipeg has been committed so far.  Additional projects will be approved in the coming months for a total of $10 million over the next two years.
The BCI II is a multi-year, cost-shared capital initiative developed jointly by the Manitoba government and the City of Winnipeg to support community revitalization through improvements to local community infrastructure in targeted older neighbourhoods and contribute to the vitality, safety and health of communities throughout the city.
Phase One of BCI II provided a total of $10 million between 2010 and 2013.  Of the 37 approved projects under the first phase, 31 have been completed with the remaining six to be completed in the 2013 construction season.  Projects included improving athletic fields, playgrounds and structures, splash pads, lighting, seating, pathways in parks, upgrades and expansion of community centres.  Projects are selected in consultation with key stakeholders and community groups.

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Jobs-Vacancy Family Dynamics, Winnipeg

The mission of the Family Centre is to bring programs, partnerships and resources together to empower and strengthen families and communities.
We are seeking a qualified NEWCOMER SUPPORT/CASE COORDINATOR The Coordinator will provide case management and service coordination for refugees
facing multiple barriers in their resettlement. RESPONSIBILITIES: To provide comprehensive assessment, service plan development, facilitated referrals, advocacy, linkages to community resources, coordination of services, and follow up for high-needs refugee families and individuals. QUALIFICATIONS: •
Exceptional cross cultural competence and experience working with refugees is required • Degree in a Human Services field
• Minimum of 2 years experience in direct client services, preferably in a service coordination and case management role
• Equivalent combination of the above
• Additional relevant languages an asset
• Clear criminal record and child abuse registry check
Term position extended until March 31, 2014
Please submit resumes by September 3rd, 2013 to: Millie Braun, Program Director
Family Dynamics Inc.
401-393 Portage Avenue (Portage Place Offices)
Winnipeg, MB R3B 3H6
or email: mbraun@familydynamics.ca We are an equal opportunity employer. POSTED: August 17, 2013

August 15, 2013 CULTURAL CENTRES TO BENEFIT FROM NEW FUNDING – – – Province Supports Winnipeg's Rich Cultural Heritage: Lemieux Four pillars of cultural communities will receive funding for upgrades thanks to the new Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program, Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux announced today at the Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre. “Manitoba is very fortunate to have such a rich cultural diversity that allows us to experience the heritage, culture, traditions and history of so many different nations,” said Lemieux. “The cultural centres established by these groups provide them with a focal point to celebrate their identity and we are pleased to provide support and encouragement for their participation in our community life.” The Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre will receive $100,000 to renovate its gymnasium and front entrance, as well as upgrade its washrooms and library. The Italian Canadian Centre of Manitoba will receive $100,000 to make improvements to its kitchen, restaurant and lounge area, as well as its conference centre. Le Club Belge will receive $30,000 towards upgrading its washroom facilities and the Council of South Sudanese Communities of Manitoba will receive $9,000 to renovate its community kitchen. Budget 2013 and the Manitoba Building and Renewal Plan committed $7.5 million over the next three years for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program. This new initiative is providing grants for projects that will provide long-term recreational and wellness benefits to communities “As each ethnic community keeps its history alive for future generations, it reflects cultural pride and the valuable contribution its members make to Manitoba’s multicultural community,” said Lemieux. “Your insight and dedication to strengthening the cross-cultural bonds is essential to a dynamic and prosperous future for Manitoba and Canada.” The first application intake for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program began on May 22 making grants available for projects such as libraries, swimming pools and splash pads, parks, trails, community centres, sports facilities including arenas and gymnasiums, as well as other community infrastructure facilities. The first application intake has closed and details on the next intake will be announced on the program’s website. More information about the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program is available at www.gov.mb.ca/ia/. - 30 -

Alcoholic free life leads to freedom

http://www.chatelaine.com/health/the-happiness-plan/life-without-alcohol/

Check out the Ombudsman Newsletter here

http://www.internal/global/pdf/mbombudsman_2013_2.pdf

Upcoming-Event:The Magic of Mary Poppins at Rainbow Stage - Check it out

Magic! As one of only seven theatres to have been given the rights to produce (only two in Canada) this very entertaining and exciting production of Mary Poppins http://waltdisneystudios.com/corp/news/1244 Rainbow Stage's production of Disney and Cameron Macintosh's MARY POPPINS needed to be "magical" and who better than Dean Gunnarson, internationally acclaimed! Winnipeg born! to act as Magic Illusion Advisor on this production. "Mary Poppins is a wonderful and magical tale that brings me back to my childhood. The movie was made the same year I was born and I grew up watching and singing its whimsical songs. It was one of the first glimpses at magic in my life, so it is a great honour and pleasure to help add some of the "Magic" to the story in Rainbow Stage's Musical Production of Mary Poppins. It has been extremely fun working with Ann Hodges and the great crew and cast to help bring Mary's magic to the outdoor stage. I think everyone will be enchanted by the way it has turned out. I can't wait to take my own children to experience Rainbow Stage's magical version." Dean Gunnarson To view more information on Dean, please visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dean_Gunnarson Mary Poppins runs - August 9 - August 29 (19 performances only). (theatre is closed on Saturdays)

August 13, 2013 RECORD NUMBER OF DOCTORS NOW PRACTISING IN MANITOBA: OSWALD The Manitoba government’s investments to expand the University of Manitoba’s medical school, create recruitment grants, and build and renew hospitals are paying off with a record 2,599 doctors now practising in Manitoba, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today. “Families want and deserve access to a doctor when they need one, close to home. Manitoba history clearly shows us that short-sighted decisions to cut health spending, physician training spaces and investments in hospitals is bad for Manitoba families and has long-lasting impacts on the health system,” said Oswald. “The number of doctors in our province continues to rise because our government knows health care is a top priority of Manitobans and we will not act on calls for haphazard cuts or privatization of the health system.” New registration statistics released by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba report a total of 2,599 physicians practising in Manitoba, 61 more than last year and an increase of 562 since 1999. “The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba is pleased to see the number of licensed medical practitioners in Manitoba rise as it has over the past 10 years,” said Dr. Bill Pope, registrar and chief executive officer of the college. “The result of the close working relationship that exists between the college, the faculty of medicine at the University of Manitoba and the Physician Resource Co-ordination Office is better health care for Manitobans.” The Manitoba government’s investments in expanding medical school spaces to 110 students per year has been one of the most important changes that has helped to reverse the exodus of doctors from Manitoba that was seen in the 1990s, the minister noted. From 1992 to 1998 the number of doctors working in Manitoba was reduced to 2,016 from 2,133, an overall loss of 117 practising physicians across the province. “In addition to expanding the medical school, we have also expanded the number of medical residencies to accommodate medical graduates from other jurisdictions,” Oswald said. Earlier this year, the Manitoba government announced $4.3 million to create 15 new medical residencies including in several rural communities. With a record 136 residency positions available this year and 105 graduating medical students, there is now more capacity to accept graduates from outside Manitoba, including Manitobans who studied medicine abroad, through the independent residency matching service that accepts the best possible candidates, the minister said. This year, nine Manitobans who studied overseas were accepted into residencies in Manitoba. “Manitoba has become a more attractive province to practise medicine in and more and more of the University of Manitoba’s medical school graduates are staying here for their residencies and to work after graduation,” said Dr. Brian Postl, dean of medicine. “With the support of the government of Manitoba, we’re also creating opportunities for qualified graduates from other universities including Manitobans who studied in other jurisdictions who want to return to our province.” Postl noted that decisions on filling residencies are made by medical schools with a view to matching competencies and medical needs across the country. The University of Manitoba has a target of filling 70 per cent of residencies with Manitobans, meaning graduates from the province and Manitobans who studied elsewhere are weighted higher in the review process, helping to get more doctors back into communities where they are likely to put down permanent roots, he said. - 30 -

Royalwood Area Park

August 7, 2013

NEW PARK FOR ROYALWOOD FAMILIES

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Province and City Announce New Playground for Bois-des-esprits Window Park

Next summer, children and families in Winnipeg’s Royalwood community will be able to enjoy outdoor fun and physical activity at a new recreational playground site, Premier Greg Selinger and Dan Vandal, councillor, St. Boniface, announced today.
“Our government knows how important it is for families to have quality time together,” said Selinger.  “This new playground will give Royalwood families a fun and exciting place to play, while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Bois-des-esprits Window Park.”
The new playground will be constructed to meet the city’s universal design standards for accessibility.  The province will provide up to $100,000 from the Building Manitoba Fund for the construction cost and the city will fund the maintenance costs.
“Residents of Royalwood have been asking for another playground for families to enjoy and I am pleased that we have been able to partner with the province to make this project happen,” said Vandal.
“Our government is pleased to provide funding for important projects like this one, which provide children safe and welcoming places to play and have fun with their friends and family,” said Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux.
“Playgrounds are a great way for kids to stay active and for parents to connect with other parents.  While their children are learning to share and build friendships, caregivers are sharing ideas and tips on how to best parent young children,” said Advanced Education and Literacy Minister Erin Selby.
Construction of the playground is expected to begin in the spring of 2014.

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Robert Taylor

August 6, 2013




PROVINCE HONOURS WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER ROBERT TAYLOR

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Order of the Buffalo Hunt Awarded for Lifetime of Celebrating Manitoba Beauty: Premier





Premier Greg Selinger today awarded one of the province’s highest honours to well-known wildlife and nature photographer Robert Taylor.



“For over half a century, Robert Taylor has made us aware of the stunning natural beauty that is literally at our doorstep in this province and of our northern giant the majestic polar bear,” said Selinger. “He has also travelled throughout the world capturing the wonder of this planet and the wildlife it contains. All of us owe Robert a sincere thank you for his lifetime of accomplishments.”



Taylor, who has been recognized with a fellowship in the Professional Photographers Association of Manitoba and a Master of Photographic Arts from the Professional Photographers of Canada, is also one of the few photographers to be honoured with acceptance into the prestigious Royal Canadian Academy of Arts.



The premier presented the honour in a private ceremony in Taylor’s home.



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Mark your calendars!
September 18th, Wednesday, from 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm
Women's Pathways to Peace
Millennium Library, Carol Shields Auditorium

Panel Presentation and Discussion
Brown Bag Lunch - All Are Welcome!

The Institute for International Women's Rights - Manitoba is pleased to be part of Rotary Peace Week.

During Winnipeg's Rotary World Peace Week 2013, the International Institute for Women?s Rights, Manitoba is pleased to host Women?s Pathways to Peace to acknowledge what women are doing locally and globally to make our world a more peaceful place. War and conflict continue to be a key source of gender-based violence, and has grave consequences for the safety and security of our society as a whole, including women, children, and men. Locally, and according to Canadian government statistics, Indigenous women are five to seven times more likely than other women to die as the result of violence here in Canada. The Native Women's Association of Canada has documented more than 580 cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada, most within the last three decades.

Moderator: Marilou McPhedran (co chair, Institute for International Women's Rights, Manitoba)

Panelists:
Chief Francine Meeches (Chief Swan Lake First Nations, and Chair Women's Committee Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs);

Corporal Candice McMackin (Corporal with the RCMP, and has served in Afghanistan); and
Nadia Mahmood (Manager of Diversity and Immigrant Student Support Services at RRC, and has worked extensively internationally, including implementing emergency health and sexual and gender-based violence prevention programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and coordinating disaster relief operations for flood victims in Pakistan)

Upcoming Event

Mark your calendars! September 18th, Wednesday, from 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm Women's Pathways to Peace Millennium Library, Carol Shields Auditorium Panel Presentation and Discussion Brown Bag Lunch - All Are Welcome! The Institute for International Women's Rights - Manitoba is pleased to be part of Rotary Peace Week. During Winnipeg's Rotary World Peace Week 2013, the International Institute for Women?s Rights, Manitoba is pleased to host Women?s Pathways to Peace to acknowledge what women are doing locally and globally to make our world a more peaceful place. War and conflict continue to be a key source of gender-based violence, and has grave consequences for the safety and security of our society as a whole, including women, children, and men. Locally, and according to Canadian government statistics, Indigenous women are five to seven times more likely than other women to die as the result of violence here in Canada. The Native Women's Association of Canada has documented more than 580 cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada, most within the last three decades. Moderator: Marilou McPhedran (co chair, Institute for International Women's Rights, Manitoba) Panelists: Chief Francine Meeches (Chief Swan Lake First Nations, and Chair Women's Committee Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs); Corporal Candice McMackin (Corporal with the RCMP, and has served in Afghanistan); and Nadia Mahmood (Manager of Diversity and Immigrant Student Support Services at RRC, and has worked extensively internationally, including implementing emergency health and sexual and gender-based violence prevention programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and coordinating disaster relief operations for flood victims in Pakistan)