Premier Greg Selinger joined Point Douglas MLA Kevin Chief, AMC Grand Chief Derek Nepinak, and Larry Vickar to serve guests at the Indian and Metis Friendship Centre’s annual pancake breakfast on December 15.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Mediation Services a Vital Resource for Peace in our Community
MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Volunteers (from left) Michelle McDonald, Richard Kennett and Candace Prejet along with Mediation Services executive director Lois Coleman Neufeld (right): Volunteers help mediate between victims and offenders to lighten the justice system's load.
Volunteers are a big part of Mediation Services success and the training they offer is second to none in the city.
Donate! Support! PAD Campaign
Press Release
Thompson, MB November 30, 2011
This week kicks off 'the PAD campaign'. The campaign is designed to coampllect sanitary products such as feminine hygiene products, shampoos/conditioners, tooth brushes/toothpaste and body soaps, etc. The products will be distributed to young women.
Sanitary/health products are not affordable for many families who may live below the poverty line. These are basic needs. Not having sanitary products is a basic human right and is at the very heart of women's issues. Not having the products sometimes hinders women from attending school or participating in school activities and sports.
"We want to give young women Power and Dignity. This is a need that isn't being fulfilled and I believe every working woman will want to do her part in meeting that need" says Louise Hodder, organizer of the campaign.
The project is being piloted for the Leaf Rapids School. The much needed products will be shipped to the school and distributed by the school counselor. Several organizations are stepping forward to offer their assistance. The Thompson YWCA and Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation have offered to collect donations of product. The Manitoba Status of Women has agreed to cover the shipping costs. The Leaf Rapids Centre Community School Committee, under Chairperson, Lianna Anderson, will coordinate the distribution of the products at the school.
The Thompson YWCA will also accept monetary donations to be used to purchase products. Donations of $50 or greater will be eligible for a tax deductible receipt. Drop off or mail to YWCA, 39 Nickel Rd, Thompson, MB R8N 0W5 or TNRC at 101-55 Selkirk Ave, Thompson.
More information can be obtained by calling Louise at 778-5243 in Thompson or by emailing Lianna or Louise at: thepadcampaign@gmail.com
-30-
Jaime Black of Winnipeg - ReDress
Meet Métis artist Jaime Black from Winnipeg. Her travelling installation of red dresses commemorates the over 600 murdered and missing Aboriginal women in Canada. Filmmaker Janelle Wookey, we visit Black's installation at the Manitoba legislature meets the people who are moved by it.
To Watch, copy and paste this link into your browser:
http://www.cbc.ca/doczone/8thfire/2011/12/reddress-project.html
Janelle Wookey is a Franco-Metis filmmaker and television reporter based in Winnipeg who has worked for APTN and Societe Radio-Canada. She has directed a documentary called Memere Metisse about her journey to discover her Metis roots. Read more
To Watch, copy and paste this link into your browser:
http://www.cbc.ca/doczone/8thfire/2011/12/reddress-project.html
Links
REDdress ProjectAbout the Filmmaker
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 13, 2011
Canadians of Eritrean Origin in Winnipeg and Manitoba, the Eritrean Community in Winnipeg Inc. The Youth Association of the Eritrean Community in Winnipeg, the Women Association of the Eritrean Community of Manitoba
Will be holding a Demonstration
in front of the Offices of the Free Press 1355 Mountain Avenue
on Thursday the 15th of December at 12:30 p.m.
To oppose and strongly reject the serious
Mass Media Distortion from the Winnipeg Free Press with unfounded allegations of terrorism against the Eritrean Community
-Dismayed by the irresponsible writing of two articles-stated below- that is harming our community and polarizing our members in Winnipeg and in Canada among Eritreans and other African Communities.
-Concerned that the one sided stories are promoting a sense of social marginalization and political selectivity among the new immigrant African Community in Manitoba that is affecting our relationship with our fellow Canadian neighbours.
Concerned about the effect that this will have on our children and the new generation of Canadians of Eritrean origin.
-Dismayed by the irresponsible writing on the paper regarding issues pertaining the Eritrean community in general and the Eritrean Community In Winnipeg Inc. with unfounded allegation of terrorism links, money extortion and breach of privacy.
-Disturbed by the fact that your Newspaper had done no serious effort to listen to our voice and provide an opportunity to respond to the serious allegations against the Eritrean-Canadian Community.
- We urge the Winnipeg Free Press to stop incriminating, marginalizing the Eritrean Community In Winnipeg by posting unfounded allegations
- We urge the Winnipeg Free Press to rectify and restore the social stigmatization and defamations that has occurred due to the irresponsible writing.
Protest links seminar to Eritrean terrorists” Matt Preprost
Posted: 08/23/2010
“By Carol Sanders, Winnipeg Free Press November 25, 2011
Country they fled has long tentacles Regime taps Eritrean refugees for cash
For more information please contact
Lambros Kyriakakos Yohannes Mehari Mehari Negusse M. Ogbagabriel
204 7944981 204 8802260 204 296 6112 204 6883777
Please find related reference/ articles to Eritrean Community in Winnipeg
Tutoring Program
Photography Project
http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/picturing-a-better-life-ahead-97650754.htmlEritrean Women Photography Project
Eritrean Women Photography Project
ERITREAN COMMUNITY IN WINNIPEG INC.
DESCRIPTION OF ORGANIZATION
The Eritrean Community in Winnipeg is an incorporated organization that represents the Eritrean community, one of the first African ethno cultural communities that was established in Manitoba. It is part of an umbrella organization, the African Communities of Manitoba Inc (ACOMI). Many people from the East African country of Eritrea came to Canada during the pre-independence years of intense turmoil and conflict. The first Eritreans came in the 70’s and established themselves as a formal community organization in 1983 in Winnipeg. Last year The Eritrean Community in Winnipeg celebrated 28 years of presence in Manitoba. The Eritrean Community in Winnipeg has 2,200 members.
The Eritrean Community in Winnipeg Inc is governed by a board of directors and a set of bylaws for more info visit www.eritreancommunity.ca
The mandate of the organization includes promoting Eritrean culture in Manitoba, strengthening the Eritrean community, Foster good relations between Canada and Eritrea, fostering cooperation between community members and community organizations, preserve cultural heritage and history. The Eritrean community also assists in providing resettlement, addresses intergenerational issues and partners with agencies, assist emerging Eritrean-Canadian youth with Cross-cultural issues, advocates for immigrant youth and women, assists with special needs cases and is involved addressing racism issues, and assisting with disaster relief when needed.
The Eritrean community comes from a geographical and geopolitical position in the world where Middle Eastern and African culture intersect with a Greco-Roman influence. Eritrea is comprised of nine major ethnic groups, the Tigre, Tigrigna, Bilen, Saho, Rashiada, Nara, Kunama , Afar and Hidareb, each with diverse cultural traditions making for a rich and vibrant heritage. Offering members from this community the opportunity to develop a voice through art video will provide a window into this world, enriching both their own community as well as the larger Canadian community.
Major cultural activities of the community
- Cultural celebrations
- Traditional music - dances and training.
- Contemporary Eritrean music - dances and training
- Cultural performances by the Eritrean-Canadian Youth Group In Manitoba -Folklorama
- Cultural performance of Eritrean-Canadian Women’s Group in Manitoba
- Promote sports activities
- Intergenerational classes for parents
- Community Cased Education for newcomers on parenting In Collaboration with Mount Carmel
- Organized and sponsored for 28 years the Eritrean Community Youth Soccer team
- Foods and cooking classes
- Traditional coffee ceremony performances at community level
- Yearly Memorial Day Commemoration at Assiniboine Park.
- Liberation day celebration
- Organizes 2-3 major Social events per year.
- Various social events
- Movie nights and Arts promotion activities
- Organizes 4-6 family oriented picnics per year.
Major projects and community support programs and advocacy.
- Sponsoring refugees from war-torn areas
- Welcoming newcomers - providing support and assistance with resettlement
- Providing assistance for special refugee cases
- Assisting refugee women, specially emotionally traumatized refugee women
- Strengthening Eritrean families and addressing intergenerational issues
- Partner in The Community Based Education for families
- With Art Photography project for single headed families
- Young emerging artists Video Project
- Newcomers Educational after School Program
- Women’s coffee ceremony project.
11. Assists and helps coordination of ACOMI Projects
12. Organizes regular bi-monthly session on Occupational Health issues.
Major partners
- Department of Labour and Immigration
- Welcome Place
- University of Manitoba
- Occupational Health Center
- Ethno-cultural Support Program
- Manitoba Interfaith Council
- Eritrean-Canadian Communities across Canada
- Various service providers to newcomers and refugee agencies
- Video Pool
10. Winnipeg Arts Council
11. Manitoba Arts Council
12. Canada Arts Council
11. Founding member of the Coalition for Newcomers Youth Educational Support
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
MLA Deanne Crowthers, J Neufeld of Wood Anchor and Conservation Minister Dave Chomiak announce new waste reduction and pollution prevention grant recipients. READ MORE
December 13, 2011
More than $150,000 Provided for Projects Helping the Environment: Chomiak
More wood waste will be reclaimed from landfills and turned into flooring and furniture thanks to funding from the provincial Waste Reduction and Pollution Prevention (WRAPP) Fund, Conservation Minister Dave Chomiak announced today.
“Taking wood destined for the landfill and turning it into beautiful flooring and furniture is an innovative way to recycle,” said Chomiak. “These creative local initiatives encourage waste reduction and help our environment, and I’m pleased we’re able to support their efforts.”
A $25,000 grant will help Wood Anchor reclaim wood waste destined for landfills to make flooring and build furniture.
“Our company is pleased to work together with Manitoba Conservation to create innovative solutions to waste diversion in Manitoba,” said J Neufeld, co-owner of Wood Anchor. “With the support received through the WRAPP fund, we are thrilled to increase our capacity to establish sustainable solutions to waste diversion in the province.”
The project was among 13 projects that received a total of $154,793. Other projects included a pilot demonstration of an environmentally friendly way to dispose of water from building projects, regional waste planning for communities within the Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve and the establishment of compost collection sites and organic waste collection services for farming communities in southeastern Manitoba.
The WRAPP fund supports improved waste reduction and pollution prevention practices in Manitoba. Priority areas are organic waste management and composting, construction and demolition waste management, pollution prevention, and waste management system development and planning.
The minister noted the WRAPP Fund has been instrumental in Manitoba’s waste reduction efforts. Since 1999, Manitobans have recycled more than 737,909 tonnes of material, equal to almost 100,000 full garbage trucks. In 2010, Manitobans recycled more than 72,000 tonnes of paper, aluminum, glass and plastic.
A total of 282 projects have been supported with more than $4.75 million in grants from the WRAPP Fund since its creation in 2000. Information on the fund is available at http://www.susdev.gov.mb.ca/.
PROVINCE SUPPORTS 13 PROJECTS REDUCING WASTE IN MANITOBA
– – –More than $150,000 Provided for Projects Helping the Environment: Chomiak
“Taking wood destined for the landfill and turning it into beautiful flooring and furniture is an innovative way to recycle,” said Chomiak. “These creative local initiatives encourage waste reduction and help our environment, and I’m pleased we’re able to support their efforts.”
A $25,000 grant will help Wood Anchor reclaim wood waste destined for landfills to make flooring and build furniture.
“Our company is pleased to work together with Manitoba Conservation to create innovative solutions to waste diversion in Manitoba,” said J Neufeld, co-owner of Wood Anchor. “With the support received through the WRAPP fund, we are thrilled to increase our capacity to establish sustainable solutions to waste diversion in the province.”
The project was among 13 projects that received a total of $154,793. Other projects included a pilot demonstration of an environmentally friendly way to dispose of water from building projects, regional waste planning for communities within the Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve and the establishment of compost collection sites and organic waste collection services for farming communities in southeastern Manitoba.
The WRAPP fund supports improved waste reduction and pollution prevention practices in Manitoba. Priority areas are organic waste management and composting, construction and demolition waste management, pollution prevention, and waste management system development and planning.
The minister noted the WRAPP Fund has been instrumental in Manitoba’s waste reduction efforts. Since 1999, Manitobans have recycled more than 737,909 tonnes of material, equal to almost 100,000 full garbage trucks. In 2010, Manitobans recycled more than 72,000 tonnes of paper, aluminum, glass and plastic.
A total of 282 projects have been supported with more than $4.75 million in grants from the WRAPP Fund since its creation in 2000. Information on the fund is available at http://www.susdev.gov.mb.ca/.
- 30 -
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHEDData-mining is important for non-profits too
A New Era for Nonprofits: Seeking Data That Makes a Difference
All nonprofits have the goal of making a positive difference in the lives of the populations they serve. But how do they know if their efforts are truly having an impact?In a new film, Saving Philanthropy: Resources to Results, director Kate Robinson documents a two-year effort to answer that question. The former director of a health care nonprofit, Robinson began her search when she realized that she had no way to measure the effectiveness of her program. Following a screening of the film, Robinson and a panel of experts discussed this and other struggles for nonprofits at an event sponsored by the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for High Impact Philanthropy, the Wharton Program for Social Impact and the Wharton Leadership Program.
After interviewing dozens of people from across the nonprofit sector, Robinson suggests that the most successful programs are those that have clearly defined goals, methods of collecting data to see if those goals are being achieved, and the ability to adjust based on what the data is telling them. But in an era of shrinking staffs and greater competition for fewer funding sources, creating such a strategy and making it a key area of concern is very challenging, panelists acknowledged.
“People need to make time for it and view it as a priority, not as something that’s extra if they have time for it at the end of the day,” said Carra Cote-Ackah, a consultant for the Center for High Impact Philanthropy and a former program officer for the Robertson Foundation. “We’re seeing nonprofits closing; we’re seeing drops in funding and we’re seeing a whole new world of funding. That is stressful for nonprofits, and it’s stressful for funders. But making time to prioritize that emphasis on quality, and the learning around it, is really important.”
Thanks to technology, the data that can be made available to nonprofits is much greater than it was in the past. It’s a challenge facing a number of industries and creates a “huge job ahead of us in gaining the translational skill to [present the data] in pictures, in images and in graphs, so you don’t have to be a wonk to get it,” noted Katherina Rosqueta, executive director of the Center for High Impact Philanthropy. “We’re talking about a set of donors who are now used to a lot more information than people were 20 years ago…. If we can solve that, our sector will be closer to the results we want to have.”
But nonprofits are also overwhelmingly facing disconnects between the outcomes they are studying in-house versus those that are of importance to potential and ongoing funders. Panelists said nonprofits need to guard against “mission drift” and be bolder in demonstrating why their data measuring is also meaningful to donors. “That’s an easy thing to say and hard to do,” noted Greg Goldman, vice president of development for the Philadelphia Zoo. “Some funders are so stringent in their own definition of what outcomes are that they impose that definition on the organization, making it very difficult for organizations to develop and work toward their own organically generated outcomes…. The agenda should be driven more from the bottom up.”
Within the organization, however, the staff has to be willing to change course, in some cases dramatically, if they see evidence that a particular program isn’t working. “It takes brave people in both the foundation world and the nonprofit world to have the guts,” to acknowledge a misstep and move on from there, Rosqueta said. “It’s only failure if you don’t learn from it, and if you don’t do that kind of course correcting.”
See also: Paul J.H. Schoemaker’s ‘Brilliant Mistakes’: Finding Opportunity in Failures
Apply for Provincial Green Team grants for 2012
December 13, 2011 APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2012 PROVINCIAL GREEN TEAM GRANTS– – –Grants Focus on Leadership of Young Community Volunteers: Rondeau “Many students rely on summer jobs to help them pay their education costs,” said Rondeau. “The Green Team helps young Manitobans to earn those funds, while gaining valuable skills and experience working on projects that benefit our communities.” Employers participating in the Urban and Hometown Green Team programs create summer employment opportunities that focus on improving neighbourhoods, promoting community involvement and helping develop young leaders. This can include projects that support recreation, housing rehabilitation, neighbourhood safety, park and riverbank cleanups, and public education related to community development. Priority is given to projects that give older youth and students the opportunity to supervise teams of younger Manitobans (ages 10 to 15) while they are doing volunteer work to improve their communities. “The Green Team provides multiple benefits to youth, their employers and their communities,” the minister said. “Engaging young people at an early age fosters a respect for the community and makes it more likely that youth will continue to be involved in their community as they get older.” Organizations can hire up to four young people between May 1 and Aug. 31, and up to four more between June 15 and Aug. 31. There are two intakes for applications, with deadline dates of Jan. 16 and March 8. Since 2000, Green Team grants have supported more than 13,800 jobs throughout the province. Interested employers can obtain grant applications and additional information at www.manitoba.ca/healthyliving/youth/employers/greenteam or by calling 204-945-3556 in Winnipeg or 1‑800‑282-8069 (toll-free).
- 30 -
|
December 13, 2011 APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2012 PROVINCIAL GREEN TEAM GRANTS– – –Grants Focus on Leadership of Young Community Volunteers: Rondeau “Many students rely on summer jobs to help them pay their education costs,” said Rondeau. “The Green Team helps young Manitobans to earn those funds, while gaining valuable skills and experience working on projects that benefit our communities.” Employers participating in the Urban and Hometown Green Team programs create summer employment opportunities that focus on improving neighbourhoods, promoting community involvement and helping develop young leaders. This can include projects that support recreation, housing rehabilitation, neighbourhood safety, park and riverbank cleanups, and public education related to community development. Priority is given to projects that give older youth and students the opportunity to supervise teams of younger Manitobans (ages 10 to 15) while they are doing volunteer work to improve their communities. “The Green Team provides multiple benefits to youth, their employers and their communities,” the minister said. “Engaging young people at an early age fosters a respect for the community and makes it more likely that youth will continue to be involved in their community as they get older.” Organizations can hire up to four young people between May 1 and Aug. 31, and up to four more between June 15 and Aug. 31. There are two intakes for applications, with deadline dates of Jan. 16 and March 8. Since 2000, Green Team grants have supported more than 13,800 jobs throughout the province. Interested employers can obtain grant applications and additional information at www.manitoba.ca/healthyliving/youth/employers/greenteam or by calling 204-945-3556 in Winnipeg or 1‑800‑282-8069 (toll-free).
- 30 -
|
– – –
Grants Focus on Leadership of Young Community Volunteers: Rondeau
Provincial Green Team grant applications are now available for not-for-profit groups, universities, colleges, school divisions, schools, hospitals and rural municipal governments to hire youth between the ages of 15 and 29 for summer jobs in Manitoba, Healthy Living, Youth and Seniors Minister Jim Rondeau announced today.
“Many students rely on summer jobs to help them pay their education costs,” said Rondeau. “The Green Team helps young Manitobans to earn those funds, while gaining valuable skills and experience working on projects that benefit our communities.”
Employers participating in the Urban and Hometown Green Team programs create summer employment opportunities that focus on improving neighbourhoods, promoting community involvement and helping develop young leaders. This can include projects that support recreation, housing rehabilitation, neighbourhood safety, park and riverbank cleanups, and public education related to community development.
Priority is given to projects that give older youth and students the opportunity to supervise teams of younger Manitobans (ages 10 to 15) while they are doing volunteer work to improve their communities.
“The Green Team provides multiple benefits to youth, their employers and their communities,” the minister said. “Engaging young people at an early age fosters a respect for the community and makes it more likely that youth will continue to be involved in their community as they get older.”
Organizations can hire up to four young people between May 1 and Aug. 31, and up to four more between June 15 and Aug. 31. There are two intakes for applications, with deadline dates of Jan. 16 and March 8.
Since 2000, Green Team grants have supported more than 13,800 jobs throughout the province.
Interested employers can obtain grant applications and additional information at www.manitoba.ca/healthyliving/youth/employers/greenteam or by calling 204-945-3556 in Winnipeg or 1‑800‑282-8069 (toll-free).
- 30 -
Monday, December 12, 2011
New Park in Sinclair area
December 9, 2011
Following LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) practices, the new facility incorporates an existing steel framed structure into a new design that features: a regulation-size gymnasium, a large multi-purpose room, new change rooms, a commercial kitchen, a fully renovated basement and a new parking lot complete with priority car pool and electric car stalls.
The Sinclair Park Community Centre project has been given a Power Smart Designation from Manitoba Hydro. The facility’s overall energy performance is 42 per cent above Model National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (MNEBC) requirements and includes energy efficient features such as: highly insulated walls, roof and floors, ventilation heat recovery and demand control ventilation.
In addition, the facility also received a full Winnipeg Accessibility Award for including features that exceeded accessibility design standards for the City of Winnipeg. These inclusive design features include directional tiles, colour and textured flooring, and highly accessible entrance ways – all of which welcome a variety of users to the facility.
SINCLAIR PARK COMMUNITY CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW RECREATION CENTRE
Winnipeg, MB. -The ability to access programs that support and promote sport and active lifestyles has improved greatly for residents of the Northwest corner of Winnipeg with the opening of the newly expanded Sinclair Park Community Centre.
The $4.68-million project was made possible as a result of funding from the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg.
On hand to officially open the new facility today were the Honourable Steve Ashton, provincial Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, Lawrence Toet, Member of Parliament for Elmwood-Transcona, Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz and Sinclair Park Community Centre President Ed Shore.
“By working together with the Federal Government and the City of Winnipeg, the families in this community have a new recreation centre to enjoy for many, many years,” said Minister Ashton. “This new facility will offer more recreational opportunities for everyone and it’ll be a gathering centre where everyone is welcome.”
“By working together with the Government of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg to improve Sinclair Park Community Centre, our Government has created jobs and economic opportunities right here in Winnipeg, while providing the community with a great recreational facility to enjoy for many years to come,” said MP Toet, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
“I’ve often said that one of the greatest investments we can ever make for our families and young people is to invest in our community infrastructure, and I am proud that the City of Winnipeg took a leading role committing over $2 million to make the redevelopment of Sinclair Park in the City’s North End a reality,” said Mayor Katz.
“Our new facility has been met with great excitement by everyone in our community. With the opening of our new centre we can now offer a greater variety of much-needed programming for our area,” said President Shore. “Our new, full-size gym is a great addition to the community centre, with many kids coming out to play floor hockey, basketball and many other sports. We are now seeing so many different age groups that were not utilizing our facility before. It is now a great place for everyone in our area to meet and just get together.”The $4.68-million project was made possible as a result of funding from the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg.
On hand to officially open the new facility today were the Honourable Steve Ashton, provincial Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, Lawrence Toet, Member of Parliament for Elmwood-Transcona, Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz and Sinclair Park Community Centre President Ed Shore.
“By working together with the Federal Government and the City of Winnipeg, the families in this community have a new recreation centre to enjoy for many, many years,” said Minister Ashton. “This new facility will offer more recreational opportunities for everyone and it’ll be a gathering centre where everyone is welcome.”
“By working together with the Government of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg to improve Sinclair Park Community Centre, our Government has created jobs and economic opportunities right here in Winnipeg, while providing the community with a great recreational facility to enjoy for many years to come,” said MP Toet, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
“I’ve often said that one of the greatest investments we can ever make for our families and young people is to invest in our community infrastructure, and I am proud that the City of Winnipeg took a leading role committing over $2 million to make the redevelopment of Sinclair Park in the City’s North End a reality,” said Mayor Katz.
Following LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) practices, the new facility incorporates an existing steel framed structure into a new design that features: a regulation-size gymnasium, a large multi-purpose room, new change rooms, a commercial kitchen, a fully renovated basement and a new parking lot complete with priority car pool and electric car stalls.
The Sinclair Park Community Centre project has been given a Power Smart Designation from Manitoba Hydro. The facility’s overall energy performance is 42 per cent above Model National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (MNEBC) requirements and includes energy efficient features such as: highly insulated walls, roof and floors, ventilation heat recovery and demand control ventilation.
In addition, the facility also received a full Winnipeg Accessibility Award for including features that exceeded accessibility design standards for the City of Winnipeg. These inclusive design features include directional tiles, colour and textured flooring, and highly accessible entrance ways – all of which welcome a variety of users to the facility.
- 30 -
Manitoba gets tougher on crime
Manitoba Justice Minister Andrew Swan regarding the status of The Manitoba Integrated Warrant Apprehension Unit. (from left to right: WPS Det. Sgt. John O’Donovan; WPS Chief Keith McCaskill; Assistant Commissioner Bill Robinson, RCMP; Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz; WPS Cst. Jason Michalyshen)
December 12, 2011
MANITOBA INTEGRATED WARRANT UNIT ACTIVE
To date, the recently formed unit has been responsible for arresting 150 wanted criminals and has cleared more than 223 warrants from the system. The unit follows up on arrest warrants issued throughout the province in both RCMP and Winnipeg Police Service jurisdictions.
“The unit uses all of the investigative techniques at their disposal to bring offenders back before the courts,” said Winnipeg Police Service Chief Keith McCaskill. “This is a unified response to a serious problem. Offenders need to know that turning themselves in is the best option when police services across Manitoba are communicating and working together to bring them to justice.”
“The RCMP is pleased to be a partner in the integrated warrant unit, where our proactive efforts in holding these offenders accountable are paying off already,” said Assistant Commissioner Bill Robinson, commanding officer of RCMP "D" Division.
“The province supports the work of this new unit in tracking down and catching offenders with outstanding warrants,” said Justice Minister Andrew Swan. “Their work gives families peace of mind, helps keep our communities safer and puts criminals behind bars where they belong.”
The unit has six police officers: three from the RCMP and three from the Winnipeg Police Service, funded by the province. The WPS provides operational and administrative supervision of the unit under Division 51, and it is housed in the Public Safety Building. It operates three teams, each comprised of one RCMP and one WPS member. A WPS patrol sergeant is the unit supervisor.
The unit is an additional operational police component that brings offenders back before the judiciary. Since September, the unit has focused on those who have committed offences against other people and have been:
- identified as responsible for a violent crime but not yet arrested due to the fact that he/she is eluding investigators,
- arrested but failed to attend subsequent court appearances, or
- on bail with court-imposed conditions and breached those conditions.
- 30 -
The provincial government is distributing this news release on behalf of the Winnipeg Police Service, RCMP and Government of Manitoba.Government Coming Through with a Plan to help Employers in Tough Times
December 12, 2011
Changes to Manitoba’s pension plan lawwill improve security of plansby providing funding options for employers during tough economic times while strengthening the monitoring of plans, Labour and Immigration Minister Jennifer Howard announced today.
“The best pension security is a healthy pension plan sponsored by a financially responsible employer,” said Howard. “These changes will help sponsors or employers meet pension promises during tough economic times and ensure administrators file pension plan information with the province on time.”
Two of the new regulations under the Pension Benefits Act take effect Jan. 1 and will focus on:
More information on the changes to Manitoba’s Pension Benefits Act and Regulation is available at www.gov.mb.ca/labour/pension/.
CHANGES TO PENSION LAW WILL HELP EMPLOYERS IN TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES, IMPROVE SECURITY OF PLANS: HOWARD
“The best pension security is a healthy pension plan sponsored by a financially responsible employer,” said Howard. “These changes will help sponsors or employers meet pension promises during tough economic times and ensure administrators file pension plan information with the province on time.”
Two of the new regulations under the Pension Benefits Act take effect Jan. 1 and will focus on:
- New penalties for the late filing of information used by the province to monitor pension plans. The timely filing of documentation with the province is important for monitoring pension plan complianceto ensure plans can deliver the promised benefits, the minister said.
- Allowing the use of letters of credit to guarantee funds to cover promised benefits to employees. During an economic downturn, the letters of credit would allow employers to meet pension plan funding requirements without using scarce operating funds, she added.
More information on the changes to Manitoba’s Pension Benefits Act and Regulation is available at www.gov.mb.ca/labour/pension/.
- 30
Congress of Black Women celebrates Annual Kwanzaa for Community Participation
It was a day of remembering African traditions and those who have gone before and to reinforce their commitment to upholding the seven principles of Kwanzaa - unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith
http://www.brandonsun.com/breaking-news/kwanzaa-holiday-celebrated-135425763.html?path=/breaking-news&id=135425763&sortBy=rank
Saturday, December 10, 2011
I am sick listening to the 5th Estate about Sexual Harassment of Female Officers
I am listening to the Fifth Estate on CBC about the sexual harassment of some female officers in the RCMP. These women were manipulated by Mr. Robert Blundell into undercover work just to be later harassed by him. It appeared to be a well laid out plan and I find this despicable.
In the middle of the adjudication Mr. Peter German, RCMP superintendent offered a deal to cover up and make this bad, sad story go away
The agreement was a white washed to protect the perpetrator. The matter was put to rest and the women knew nothing would change. Women in the police force as in the general area are seen as disposable and there for the pleasure of men and had no right to complain. It was part of their job, and that's the message I get from this. Why would Mr. Blundell not be punished, why did McCormick pushed the matter under the carpet and continued business as usual.
An d for all he did what was the penalty - loss of one day's wages.
I think the whole bunch of these people should be kicked off the RCMP and lose their pension and everything because of the seriousness
Robert Blundell should not be allowed to work let alone be promoted in the ranks in spite of admitting sexual harassment of female officer.
How can an ordinary woman trust the RCMP to do the right thing by them when they cannot even protect their own women in the force against ruthless colleagues.
There are about 8 women who have come forward with
Sgt Robert Blundell walked away from this complaint with a promotion and only one day lost wages. Quite a deal. Would a woman do as well in situations of lesser importance? I don't think so.
The new RCMP Commissioner, Mr. Polsen does not seem to want to revisit the sexual harassment complaint of Mr. Blundell as far as he is concerned that matter is over but he said he is bound and determined to rid the RCMP of men like Blundell type, men who harass women.
I don't know what needs to be said or done to make men more accountable for their harassing behaviours. I think there should be immediate termination of a person's job if found guilty of sexual harassment in the workplace. There should be no second chances here and then I believe we might appear to be serious about crimes of these nature.
How can anyone perform a job working under these conditions. We all are at risk.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/12/09/rcmp-allegations-blundell.html?cmp=rss
In the middle of the adjudication Mr. Peter German, RCMP superintendent offered a deal to cover up and make this bad, sad story go away
The agreement was a white washed to protect the perpetrator. The matter was put to rest and the women knew nothing would change. Women in the police force as in the general area are seen as disposable and there for the pleasure of men and had no right to complain. It was part of their job, and that's the message I get from this. Why would Mr. Blundell not be punished, why did McCormick pushed the matter under the carpet and continued business as usual.
An d for all he did what was the penalty - loss of one day's wages.
I think the whole bunch of these people should be kicked off the RCMP and lose their pension and everything because of the seriousness
Robert Blundell should not be allowed to work let alone be promoted in the ranks in spite of admitting sexual harassment of female officer.
How can an ordinary woman trust the RCMP to do the right thing by them when they cannot even protect their own women in the force against ruthless colleagues.
There are about 8 women who have come forward with
Sgt Robert Blundell walked away from this complaint with a promotion and only one day lost wages. Quite a deal. Would a woman do as well in situations of lesser importance? I don't think so.
The new RCMP Commissioner, Mr. Polsen does not seem to want to revisit the sexual harassment complaint of Mr. Blundell as far as he is concerned that matter is over but he said he is bound and determined to rid the RCMP of men like Blundell type, men who harass women.
I don't know what needs to be said or done to make men more accountable for their harassing behaviours. I think there should be immediate termination of a person's job if found guilty of sexual harassment in the workplace. There should be no second chances here and then I believe we might appear to be serious about crimes of these nature.
How can anyone perform a job working under these conditions. We all are at risk.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/12/09/rcmp-allegations-blundell.html?cmp=rss
Good News for Older Workers
December 9, 2011
Selkirk, Manitoba, December 9, 2011—Ten federally and provincially funded projects will support unemployed older workers in small communities in Manitoba by helping them develop their skills and get back into the labour market.
The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety and Regional Minister for Manitoba, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, together with the Honourable Peter Bjornson, Minister of Entrepreneurship, Training and Tradetoday announced joint funding of $2.9 million for these projects under the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers.
“Our government’s top priority remains Canada’s economic recovery and we continue to take action to support Canadian jobs and families,” said Minister Toews. “Together, with the Province of Manitoba, we are helping unemployed older workers in small communities across Manitoba get the support, training and skills development opportunities they need to find jobs and re-enter the workforce.”
“Manitoba recognizes older workers as a key component to addressing labour and skill shortages in our growing economy,” said Minister Bjornson. “These investments in education and training for older workers will help them maximize their ability to participate in the workforce.”
Approximately 350 unemployed older workers from a number of communities in Manitoba will benefit from these projects. Participants will take part in skills-enhancement training that includes career development activities, computer skills training and assistance with job search and subsidized work placements. Through this investment, both levels of government are working together to ensure that the older workers remain active and productive labour market participants.
The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers is part of the Government of Canada’s broader strategy to create an educated, skilled and flexible workforce. TheGovernment highlighted its commitment to this strategy in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. To date, this program has helped more than 16,000 unemployed older workers retrain for new careers.
A key element of the Plan includes increasing and improving opportunities available to Canadian workers through skills development.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit http://www.actionplan.gc.ca/.
For more information on these projects in Manitoba, please visit www.manitoba.ca/employment.
GOVERNMENTS OF CANADA AND MANITOBA HELP OLDER WORKERS RE-ENTER THE WORKFORCE
The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety and Regional Minister for Manitoba, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, together with the Honourable Peter Bjornson, Minister of Entrepreneurship, Training and Tradetoday announced joint funding of $2.9 million for these projects under the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers.
“Our government’s top priority remains Canada’s economic recovery and we continue to take action to support Canadian jobs and families,” said Minister Toews. “Together, with the Province of Manitoba, we are helping unemployed older workers in small communities across Manitoba get the support, training and skills development opportunities they need to find jobs and re-enter the workforce.”
“Manitoba recognizes older workers as a key component to addressing labour and skill shortages in our growing economy,” said Minister Bjornson. “These investments in education and training for older workers will help them maximize their ability to participate in the workforce.”
Approximately 350 unemployed older workers from a number of communities in Manitoba will benefit from these projects. Participants will take part in skills-enhancement training that includes career development activities, computer skills training and assistance with job search and subsidized work placements. Through this investment, both levels of government are working together to ensure that the older workers remain active and productive labour market participants.
The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers is part of the Government of Canada’s broader strategy to create an educated, skilled and flexible workforce. TheGovernment highlighted its commitment to this strategy in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. To date, this program has helped more than 16,000 unemployed older workers retrain for new careers.
A key element of the Plan includes increasing and improving opportunities available to Canadian workers through skills development.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit http://www.actionplan.gc.ca/.
For more information on these projects in Manitoba, please visit www.manitoba.ca/employment.
- 30 -
Third world conditions in Canada
This is worth watching to the end...................
Understanding Attawapiskat
Friday, December 09, 2011
Congratulations to Rebecca Enns
Rebecca Enns proved she had guts when she started a gay-straight alliance at her Westgate School and for that she won the Sybil Shack Award this year and a hefty $500 that goes with that..he awards reception was held at the Kum Koon Gardens at which was reasonably well attended. The ceremony was delightful.
The Winner of the Human Rights Commitment Award went to the UFCW Union.
http://winnipeg.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20111209/wpg_human_rights_111209/20111209/?hub=WinnipegHome
The Winner of the Human Rights Commitment Award went to the UFCW Union.
http://winnipeg.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20111209/wpg_human_rights_111209/20111209/?hub=WinnipegHome
Students win Scholarships
Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross Celebrates with nine students who received BUILDING Foundation bursaries for positive contributions to their communities.
December 9, 2011
Bursaries Will Allow Recipients to Build a Better Future for Themselves: Irvin-Ross
Nine students making positive contributions to their communities have been awarded BUILDINGFoundations bursaries, Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross announced today.
“An investment in education provides outstanding returns to individuals and to society,” said
Irvin-Ross. “I take exceptional pride in recognizing youth who contribute to community enrichment, the well-being of others and promotion of a high quality of life. We are pleased to support their efforts to achieve success.”
The BUILDINGFoundations Bursary Fund is part of the province’s long-term housing strategy and investment plan to support low-income households. Nine $1,000 bursaries are awarded each year.
In recognition of 2012 as the International Year of Co-operatives, Manitoba Housing and Community Development is providing one additional bursary of $1,000 to a student enrolled in a co-operative or community development post-secondary program in Manitoba. This year the bursary was awarded to University of Winnipeg student Corinne Murdock.
Students receiving the 2011 BUILDINGFoundations bursary are:
The bursary program began in 2007 and has provided 36 recipients with bursaries of $1,000. Applications are reviewed and evaluated based on a combination of academic excellence and volunteer work in the community.
The province’s long-term housing strategy supports a vision to create stronger communities through housing solutions, said Irvin-Ross. More information about the province’s BUILDINGFoundations Bursary Program and long-term housing strategy is available at www.manitoba.ca/housing.
The BUILDINGFoundations Bursary Fund is administered by the Winnipeg Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to be a catalyst for strengthening community well-being, now and for future generations, by promoting philanthropy, creating partnerships and supporting diverse charitable organizations.
NINE STUDENTS RECEIVE BUILDINGFOUNDATIONS BURSARIES
– – –Bursaries Will Allow Recipients to Build a Better Future for Themselves: Irvin-Ross
“An investment in education provides outstanding returns to individuals and to society,” said
Irvin-Ross. “I take exceptional pride in recognizing youth who contribute to community enrichment, the well-being of others and promotion of a high quality of life. We are pleased to support their efforts to achieve success.”
The BUILDINGFoundations Bursary Fund is part of the province’s long-term housing strategy and investment plan to support low-income households. Nine $1,000 bursaries are awarded each year.
In recognition of 2012 as the International Year of Co-operatives, Manitoba Housing and Community Development is providing one additional bursary of $1,000 to a student enrolled in a co-operative or community development post-secondary program in Manitoba. This year the bursary was awarded to University of Winnipeg student Corinne Murdock.
Students receiving the 2011 BUILDINGFoundations bursary are:
- Shawna Chartrand, Red River College;
- Bernadine Fontaine, Red River College;
- Chantel Henderson, University of Winnipeg;
- Yi Yan Huang, Red River College;
- Janette Klassen, Red River College;
- Ayesha Lugas-Garand, University of Manitoba;
- Amanda Mazariegos, University of Manitoba;
- Claude Michell, University of Winnipeg; and
- Frank Wheeler, University of Manitoba.
The bursary program began in 2007 and has provided 36 recipients with bursaries of $1,000. Applications are reviewed and evaluated based on a combination of academic excellence and volunteer work in the community.
The province’s long-term housing strategy supports a vision to create stronger communities through housing solutions, said Irvin-Ross. More information about the province’s BUILDINGFoundations Bursary Program and long-term housing strategy is available at www.manitoba.ca/housing.
The BUILDINGFoundations Bursary Fund is administered by the Winnipeg Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to be a catalyst for strengthening community well-being, now and for future generations, by promoting philanthropy, creating partnerships and supporting diverse charitable organizations.
- 30 -
Thursday, December 08, 2011
Way to Go Manitoba - Eat Locally
December 8, 2011
FARM 2 SCHOOL FUNDRAISER SELLS 500,000 POUNDS OF MANITOBA-GROWN VEGETABLES
– – –Healthy Eating Initiative Raises Over $245,000 for Manitoba Schools: Rondeau
“This outstanding initiative, now in its second year, provides Manitoba schools with a healthy way to raise funds while promoting good nutrition,” said Rondeau. “This is an important step in our fight against childhood obesity and it also benefits Manitoba farmers and stimulates our economy.”
Participating schools sell bags of Peak of the Market vegetables in $10 and $20 bags, and half the proceeds remain with the school and the other half go back to Manitoba farmers. To date, this year’s program has sold more than 540,000 pounds of vegetables, which is equivalent to about 13 semi-trailer loads and is more than four times the volume sold in 2010, Rondeau said.
The minister praised the efforts of the program partners, including Peak of the Market, which provides the vegetables at cost and delivers them to participating schools; the Manitoba Association of Home Economists, which co-ordinates the fundraiser; and the 215 schools which participated in this year’s program, up from 66 schools the first year.
“The Farm 2 School veggie fundraiser has exceeded all of our expectations, with each participating school earning an average of $1,065,” said Larry McIntosh, president and CEO of Peak of the Market. “Having students fundraise for their schools with healthy foods, while helping support Manitoba famers is truly a win for our schools and for all Manitobans.”
“We are proud to be a part of this special initiative, which is putting fresh, delicious Manitoba-grown vegetables on thousands of family dinner tables across Manitoba,” said Getty Stewart, past president of the Manitoba Association of Home Economists. “The success of this year’s program shows that healthy food fundraising options can raise as much or more than any other school fundraiser, while contributing to the healthy development of our children.”
The Farm 2 School initiative will begin again in September 2012. Information on the program can be found at www.farmtoschoolmanitoba.ca/.
- 30 -
Upcoming Events - Saturday Dec 10 - Treats from the Legislature
December 8, 2011
ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, DEC. 10
– – –Premier Invites Public to Celebrate the Season at the Legislative Building
Between 1 and 3 p.m., Manitobans’ representatives will be in their offices to greet their constituents. The Blue Room, the lieutenant-governor’s formal reception room, will be open for viewing and the government caucus room, the opposition caucus room, the Liberal office, the Legislative Reading Room and the clerk of the legislative assembly’s office will be open to visitors.
There will be fun for children of all ages in the activity centre in Room 254 from 1 to 3 p.m. Children accompanied by an adult can have their face painted or find their inner artist with crafts and colouring from Art City all afternoon. Lightbulb the clown will perform from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. and magicians Zack and Jenn are sure to amaze from 2:15 to 2:45 p.m. At 1:30 p.m., a special guest from the North Pole will make an appearance on the Grand Staircase.
Musical performances featuring choirs from École St. Avila and Strathmillan, Niji Mahkwa, Ryerson Elementary and John de Graff Elementary schools will take place on the Grand Staircase while the Air Command Band and VoxAir vocal quartet will be performing as wandering carollers. A long-standing tradition will see the new Speaker of the legislature Daryl Reid lead a choir of MLAs.
Complimentary festive-season photos will be taken in the Rotunda from 1 to 3 p.m. and those who attend the open house are asked to bring along a non-perishable food item or unwrapped toy for the Christmas Cheer Board. Donations of gently used children’s winter coats, pants, boots, hats and mittens will also be accepted as part of the Koats for Kids program.
“Manitobans are known for their generous spirit and helping their fellow citizens anytime of the year. I know we can also help those who don’t have everything they may need this holiday season,” said Selinger. “The annual open house is a wonderful tradition and one of the favourite days for all members of the legislature. My colleagues and I look forward to greeting the public and embracing the spirit of the season.”
- 30 -
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
School bus in Kingston Ontario ordered to remove Christmas decorations on bus
Some folks are outraged by this and may feel that people should be outraged at having the decorations removed.
Canada has chosen a multicultural political path which guarantees equality under the law, equality of opportunities and freedom from discrimination. In Canada there is a separation of Church and State so for a public transportation to uphold Christianity to me, flies in the face of Canadian culture and policy.
Many who seek simple answers to complex problems will blame this on new immigrants. Most new immigrants and immigrants in general are uncomfortable by these moves and would rather the government not take these seeming drastic measures which in their minds is to please newcomers.
What if the Christmas is allowed to be celebrated and upheld in government offices and advertisements plastered on government buildings etc? How would that promote multiculturalism unless the same is done for Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i, Buddhism, Hindu religious holiday.
If truth be told, people of all races celebrate Christmas or the holiday season by putting up lights, having a Christmas tree and cooking and eating fancy foods during the season. To them, it is just another day off work and they want to be like other people.
Governments however, have policies to maintain and have to set the course for an equitable society. Institutionally, this is how it is but individually, the government does not care who celebrates what.
We all still get Christmas off at the moment, but in the future as our society becomes more inclusive, these religious holidays may be granted only to those who adhere to their respective religious practices.
Some people argue that when they go to Saudi Arabia they have to wear the hijab and long skirts why can't people who come here adapt to Canadian culture. The answer to that is Saudi Arabia did not establish itself as a democratic, multicultural society where human rights are protected but Canada does and we should all be proud of that. Canada is on the right track.
http://news.sympatico.ca/oped/coffee-talk/school_buses_forced_to_remove_christmas_decorations/a4e20e31
Canada has chosen a multicultural political path which guarantees equality under the law, equality of opportunities and freedom from discrimination. In Canada there is a separation of Church and State so for a public transportation to uphold Christianity to me, flies in the face of Canadian culture and policy.
Many who seek simple answers to complex problems will blame this on new immigrants. Most new immigrants and immigrants in general are uncomfortable by these moves and would rather the government not take these seeming drastic measures which in their minds is to please newcomers.
What if the Christmas is allowed to be celebrated and upheld in government offices and advertisements plastered on government buildings etc? How would that promote multiculturalism unless the same is done for Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i, Buddhism, Hindu religious holiday.
If truth be told, people of all races celebrate Christmas or the holiday season by putting up lights, having a Christmas tree and cooking and eating fancy foods during the season. To them, it is just another day off work and they want to be like other people.
Governments however, have policies to maintain and have to set the course for an equitable society. Institutionally, this is how it is but individually, the government does not care who celebrates what.
We all still get Christmas off at the moment, but in the future as our society becomes more inclusive, these religious holidays may be granted only to those who adhere to their respective religious practices.
Some people argue that when they go to Saudi Arabia they have to wear the hijab and long skirts why can't people who come here adapt to Canadian culture. The answer to that is Saudi Arabia did not establish itself as a democratic, multicultural society where human rights are protected but Canada does and we should all be proud of that. Canada is on the right track.
http://news.sympatico.ca/oped/coffee-talk/school_buses_forced_to_remove_christmas_decorations/a4e20e31
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)