tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16213742451560223772024-02-21T03:42:15.881-08:00:-: Points to Ponder :-:ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comBlogger288125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-75016337615062789462014-06-16T07:12:00.000-07:002014-06-16T07:12:00.013-07:00What About Gay Seniors? Diversity, Issues and Challenges of LGBT Seniors in Long term Care/<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><b><i><center>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #a7a7a7; display: inline-block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; max-width: 417px; min-width: 300px; width: 100%;">
<div style="height: 0; overflow: hidden; padding: 98.800959% 0 49px 0; position: relative; width: 100%;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="461" scrolling="no" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/135608696?et=AejAsrOiQF5LQoIRdcDvfQ&ContextMore=on&sig=C6rJnXb40nLneV81Rm3c3fQdTin3u5vrEPDJqGUd5L0=" style="display: inline-block; height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; width: 100%;" width="417"></iframe></div>
<div style="margin: 0;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 4px 0 0 10px; padding: 0; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/135608696" style="border: none; color: #a7a7a7; display: inline-block; font-weight: normal !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">#135608696</a> / <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" style="border: none; color: #a7a7a7; display: inline-block; font-weight: normal !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">gettyimages.com</a></div>
</div>
</center>
</i></b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<i><b>Seniors in the LGBT community face challenges as they move to long term care facilities</b></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">TORONTO</span>, Ontario <span class="xn-chron" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">June 12, 2014</span> /Canada NewsWire/ - As we approach World Pride, there's a renewed focus on many of the issues that are of pressing importance to the LGBT community. One issue that is rarely addressed, however, is the subject of elderly and aging LGBT individuals who require the services of a long term care facility. LGBT seniors who require nursing home care worry about negative or diminished treatment if their sexual identities become known. Many of these seniors, who have remained closeted, have to now worry about being "found out," or about making the decision to come out and dealing with potential backlash from caregivers, family and friends, after many years of hiding their sexual identity. The Toronto Central Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) will open up a discussion on the importance of creating a culture of caring for LGBT seniors in a panel event and workshop on Monday, June 16, 2014.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
The session will include discussion on some of the pressing issues, particularly as they relate to seniors in the community. Participating in this panel event will be the following:</div>
<ul style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 10px 10px 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" type="disc">
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">A social worker from True Davidson Acres who will discuss how the facility has made itself welcoming to the aging LGBT community</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">A Care Coordinator with a case study which highlights some of the challenges she faced in providing care to a transgendered client, and the strategies and steps she employed to overcome them</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">An LGBT caregiver and client</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Care Coordinators and clients will be in attendance to discuss and share their perspectives on how comfortable (or uncomfortable) they feel regarding care of this demographic</li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>About Toronto Central CCAC:</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
Toronto Central CCAC connects people across <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Toronto</span> with quality in-home and community-based health care. We provide information, direct access to qualified care providers and community-based services to help people come home from hospital or live independently at home. In any given month we serve a population of nearly 1.5 million residents of the <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Toronto</span> area with their care needs in the community. In any given month, we support:</div>
<ul style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 10px 10px 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" type="disc">
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">More than 19,000 people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">1,700 kids getting support at their schools</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">23,000 information and referral inquiries</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">The transition to a long-term care home for 240 clients</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">600 individuals to die at home with dignity</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Saving 1000s of hospital days by transitioning 7,000 clients home for care</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">400 adults receiving rehabilitation services</li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">For more information, go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAtKFBXeTMQ&feature=youtu.be" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAtKFBXeTMQ&feature=youtu.be</a></li>
</ul>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-81788185117264188152014-03-20T13:35:00.001-07:002014-03-20T13:35:31.208-07:00World Water Day: The importance of maintaining water quality and availability<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="407" scrolling="no" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/175426122?et=4j71JHO68UKhJg_Sc9tqtQ&sig=0eEtIOdNVq0MQKLx08gO98ZYHQyPFmzb0Rcn5JgGvkU=" width="507"></iframe></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">OTTAWA</span>, Ontario <span class="xn-chron" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">March 20, 2014</span> /Canada NewsWire/ - In recognition of the upcoming World Water Day, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister for the Arctic Council, with the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, issued the following statement:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"On <span class="xn-chron" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">March 22</span>, World Water Day, we have an opportunity to reflect on the importance of water and what we can all do as individuals and governments at all levels to work together to protect this fundamental, essential resource.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"<a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/dd-sd/default.asp?lang=en&n=AD293762-1" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Maintaining water quality and availability</a> is one of four key themes in our <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/dd-sd/default.asp?lang=En&n=CD30F295-1" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Federal Sustainable Development Strategy</a>. Environment <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span> collaborates with the provinces and territories to monitor aquatic ecosystem health and the quality and quantity of our water resources. These efforts help to sustain our municipal drinking water needs, protect Canadians from flooding, and ensure jobs and economic growth, particularly in the transportation and tourism sectors.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"As part of our government's comprehensive overall approach to protect <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada's</span> water, we are taking targeted actions in a number of key watersheds, including the <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/eaudouce-freshwater/default.asp?lang=En&n=05A4FEBA-1" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin</a>, the <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/eaudouce-freshwater/default.asp?lang=En&n=E94A4CCD-1" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Lake Winnipeg Basin</a>, and the <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/eaudouce-freshwater/default.asp?lang=En&n=D3B81958-1" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Lower Athabasca River</a>. Last month, for example, we celebrated our achievements under Environment Canada's Lake Winnipeg Basin Stewardship Fund, recognizing the accomplishments of 59 community projects which received federal funding of over <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">5 million dollars</span> over the past six years.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"Under this approach, <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span> is taking a number of concrete and measurable actions and working to reduce pollution, toxic and harmful substances, enhance monitoring and research, and develop new regulations.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"These measures, combined with additional, collaborative provincial and territorial water efforts, ensure that all Canadians have access to clean, safe, reliable, secure and healthy water. Water resources will continue to be used wisely, both economically and ecologically," Minister Aglukkaq added.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"Our health and that of our environment, aquatic life, fisheries and economy, are deeply tied to the health of our waterways, and water management is a shared responsibility, said Minister Shea. The viability and sustainability of our waterways for future generations are always a priority.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"Through our government's investments, we have advanced our network of Marine Protected Areas, which serves to protect and conserve important fish, marine mammals, endangered marine species and their habitat in our oceans."</div>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-66450965171484462712014-03-05T11:35:00.000-08:002014-03-05T11:35:08.978-08:0010 Canadian community-based organizations receive $194,000 from The Co-operators<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoAAAcB65sw2lNZcjdusqaGe6tajs4r5WyqoHFmSzDmRT8r7pIFWgE135W17sykO92dajAWRbnoz-hxDLY91AaUCAvFQbmSLECzqIWTeWEgOoYf9CNPSSxuD1r2LiJ4Eas6Y6msiS_PYrs/s1600/DSCF1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoAAAcB65sw2lNZcjdusqaGe6tajs4r5WyqoHFmSzDmRT8r7pIFWgE135W17sykO92dajAWRbnoz-hxDLY91AaUCAvFQbmSLECzqIWTeWEgOoYf9CNPSSxuD1r2LiJ4Eas6Y6msiS_PYrs/s1600/DSCF1563.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">GUELPH, Ontario</span>, <span class="xn-chron" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">March 5, 2014</span> /Canada NewsWire/ - Ten organizations across <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span> have received funding to support and strengthen the vital services they provide to their communities. The Co-operators announced grants totalling <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$194,057</span>to 10 organizations that provide training and employment opportunities to help local residents overcome barriers to employment and become more self-reliant.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
The funding provided through The Co-operators Foundation Community Economic Development (CED) Funds, will go to support the following organizations:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Eco Equitable Inc., <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Ottawa</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />EcoEquitable is a charitable social enterprise that provides the sewing skills and experience needed for immigrant and underemployed women to join the Canadian workforce, while at the same reducing textile waste destined for landfills. The grant of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> will support graduates of the "Sowing for Jobs" program with mentoring and co-op placements.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Community Opportunity and Innovation Network Inc. - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Peterborough, Ont.</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($14,750)</span></b><br />Community Opportunity and Innovation Network Inc. (COIN) is a family of social enterprises that support and train people who face barriers to employment. The grant of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$14,750</span> will be used to increase the number of eligible participants beyond those on government assistance, to develop six training modules, and to expand its services to businesses in the community.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b><span class="xn-person" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Fred Victor</span> - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Toronto</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br /><span class="xn-person" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Fred Victor</span> fosters long-lasting and positive change in the lives of homeless and low-income people living in <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Toronto</span>. It operates Friends Catering, a social enterprise that assists people who are experiencing significant, life-limiting barriers to employment such as mental instability and addiction, by providing six-months of training and work experience in food services. A grant of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> will allow Friends Catering to increase its sales and to train 12 people in 2014.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Scadding Court Community Centre - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Toronto</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($19,307)</span></b><br />Scadding Court Community Centre (SCCC) is a community-based organization with programs and services geared toward under-serviced, culturally diverse groups. SCCC seeks to offer an intensive one-year program to ten at-risk youth living at Atkinson Housing Co-operative. The youth will be hired part-time, either at the centre or with other community partners, and will receive a range of supports. A grant of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$19,307</span> will allow SCCC to hire one of these young people at the centre.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Working for Change - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Toronto</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />The mandate of Working for Change is to provide employment and training opportunities to people who have been marginalized by mental health and addiction issues, poverty, homelessness, violence and newcomer/immigration challenges. It operates four social enterprises and recently opened a café. The <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> grant will be put toward the salary of a Lead Hand of the project as well as to the training budget.<b> </b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Reaching our Outdoor Friends (ROOF) - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Kitchener, Ont.</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />Reaching our Outdoor Friends (ROOF)<b> </b>is committed to providing for the safety and well-being of homeless or at-risk youth, aged 12 to 25, in the Waterloo Region. It provides them with job skills and employment opportunities through two social enterprise programs: the Lunchbox, which provides catering; and Street Designs, which designs and heat-presses t-shirts. A grant of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> will support the programs' administration costs.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Regina Work Preparation Centre - Regina <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />Regina Work Preparation Centre provides employment services and training to communities that are under-represented in the workforce. A <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> grant will support a new training program that targets the hospitality sector. This program will provide 20 participants with various certificates suitable to the industry, as well as group-based employment skills, and facilitated connections to employers.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Momentum Community Economic Development Society - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Calgary</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />Momentum is an award-winning Community Economic Development organization formed in 1991 to provide programs to Calgarians living on low incomes. Given that many new businesses struggle to achieve stability, especially in the first year, Momentum will use its <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> grant to strengthen the delivery of "post-launch" supports for the entrepreneurs who participate in its Business Development programs.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Supporting Employment and Economic Development (SEED) Winnipeg Inc - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Winnipeg</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />SEED's mission is "to reduce poverty and assist in the renewal of primarily inner city communities by providing capacity building services that help low-income individuals, groups, organizations and economically distressed neighbourhoods improve their social and economic vitality". This year's funding of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> supports the Business Development Services program, which aims to increase the number of businesses launched or sustained, to continue to contribute to job creation and retention, and to market and increase services to at-risk groups in <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Winnipeg</span>.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>Common Thread Cooperative - <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Vancouver</span> <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">($20,000)</span></b><br />Common Thread is a non-profit co-op of organizations that offers sewing programs and employment opportunities for disadvantaged people living in <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Vancouver</span>. This year's funding of <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$20,000</span> will support a project called "Stretching Our Fabric: New Products and New Skills", through which the co-op will provide training and expand its product line.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
"These 10 organizations provide vital services that help make their communities stronger," said <span class="xn-person" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Kathy Bardswick</span>, President and CEO of The Co-operators. "Their programs help residents find meaningful work and in turn their communities benefit socially, economically and environmentally."</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
The CED Funds were developed in 1995 to commemorate The Co-operators 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary, and through it, The Co-operators has granted <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$4.3 million</span> to 105 organizations. The CED Funds are part of The Co-operators Foundation, which supports community-based organizations and other worthy causes throughout <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span>. For more information on the Fund and its recipients, please visit: <a href="http://www.cooperators.ca/en/About-Us/Foundation/CED" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">www.cooperators.ca/en/About-Us/Foundation/CED</a>.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<b>About The Co-operators:</b><br />The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than <span class="xn-money" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">$34 billion</span> in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span> by <span class="xn-person" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Aon Hewitt</span>; Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span>; and the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in <span class="xn-location" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Canada</span> by Sustainalytics and Maclean's magazine. For more information visit <a href="http://www.cooperators.ca/" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #ff7b00; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">www.cooperators.ca</a>.</div>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-12925503524454439942014-01-20T08:06:00.000-08:002014-01-20T08:06:13.681-08:00Ontario colleges experience highest-ever first-year enrolment<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.liveinkw.ca/images/img-conestoga-college-hp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.liveinkw.ca/images/img-conestoga-college-hp.jpg" height="183" width="400" /></a></div>
<p>
TORONTO, Ontario January 20, 2014 /Canada NewsWire/ - Final calculations have confirmed that enrolment at Ontario's public colleges is at its highest level ever with a nearly five per cent increase in first-year, full-time programs.
<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
"This is a strong indicator of the appetite that exists for the career-focused programs at the colleges," said Linda Franklin, the president and CEO of Colleges Ontario. "It's a difficult job market and students understand the need to be as prepared as possible to pursue meaningful careers."</blockquote>
Enrolment in the first-year programs has increased to more than 125,000 students, with more than 220,000 students enrolled in all programs. Franklin said the increasing numbers of students entering college is important as the province works to address the skills mismatch that is hurting Ontario's economy.
<br />
Currently, many people seeking work can't fill the positions that are available because they don't have the right qualifications and advanced skills. The Conference Board of Canada estimates the skills mismatch costs Ontario as much as $24.3 billion a year in lost economic activity and the provincial government loses $3.7 billion annually in tax revenues.
<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
"Colleges are known for their strong relationships with industry and local businesses," said Franklin. "We have the flexibility to adapt our programs to the rapidly changing needs of the marketplace and ensure that graduates have the knowledge and skills to achieve long-term success."</blockquote>
The colleges serve a diverse range of people seeking higher education, training and retraining. Increasing numbers of university graduates are among the increasing numbers of people pursuing college programs. In the last five years, the number of university graduates applying to college has increased 40 per cent.
<br />
Ontario's colleges serve 220,000 full-time students and 300,000 part-time students and clients. The colleges offer a range of programs including advertising, business, paramedicine, hospitality, game development, biotechnology and much more.
<br />
The most recent Key Performance Indicators released by the province show that even in the height of the recession nearly 84 per cent of college graduates found work within six months of graduation.
<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
"In the years ahead, there will be an even greater demand for college graduates," Franklin said. "It will be essential that students have access to the career-focused programs available throughout the province."</blockquote>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-67107784282170025122013-10-24T13:03:00.001-07:002013-10-24T13:03:32.941-07:00Memory Fit - Living Well with a Dementia Diagnosis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWevXZF2crzif-fNo3QXzSjVqRa8OVgEoBF6KbkUeGXzvbePYuM7s11ptIXaiaEKB3l-wrWVffX4sWHho005Mi6HCjo4FWfko1OaAGrPv7j4gLx13VEszGMqH64oiledGT-PKFZlItgMyH/s1600/0_Memory+Fit+Poster.pdf.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWevXZF2crzif-fNo3QXzSjVqRa8OVgEoBF6KbkUeGXzvbePYuM7s11ptIXaiaEKB3l-wrWVffX4sWHho005Mi6HCjo4FWfko1OaAGrPv7j4gLx13VEszGMqH64oiledGT-PKFZlItgMyH/s640/0_Memory+Fit+Poster.pdf.GIF" /></a></div>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-18063388639405572162013-10-10T09:52:00.002-07:002013-10-10T09:52:54.501-07:00Don’t miss your chance to do some holiday shopping while supporting United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin & Spark of Brilliance!<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZb5YR1GCbO6uQ5dZ14VSfqmJBqorsNNYrkwNipTQAggMwyC_-Z8sYb-E-iX1FMOpGLv6cd4wuquNvbzDpPLabuGsX9dIKjzXWnG920OjS1On3LivznsPgEaS7za8cGcIu0ECWAvybtOsr/s1600/sparkofbrilliancecraftshow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZb5YR1GCbO6uQ5dZ14VSfqmJBqorsNNYrkwNipTQAggMwyC_-Z8sYb-E-iX1FMOpGLv6cd4wuquNvbzDpPLabuGsX9dIKjzXWnG920OjS1On3LivznsPgEaS7za8cGcIu0ECWAvybtOsr/s640/sparkofbrilliancecraftshow.jpg" /></a></div>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-16892830617269737532013-06-04T15:54:00.001-07:002013-06-04T15:54:06.201-07:00Institute to Explore Improvisation as Key to World Harmony<p>
<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXB3RAUPPuo4qTMbxJdOyU2tbeur7HcICuMJEnHONt5ASX6bYkosgFDJZcHavbqupWfclv6vUgARdIrEvfoZSWJ18HYMe0-Fv7AXlrUzp34XMW2rxFJ2PnuJmbltJ_n09i71V_agSfasIW/s1600/ajayheble.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXB3RAUPPuo4qTMbxJdOyU2tbeur7HcICuMJEnHONt5ASX6bYkosgFDJZcHavbqupWfclv6vUgARdIrEvfoZSWJ18HYMe0-Fv7AXlrUzp34XMW2rxFJ2PnuJmbltJ_n09i71V_agSfasIW/s320/ajayheble.jpeg" /></a>
<p>
<i>U of G professor Ajay Heble</i></center>
<p>
GUELPH, Ontario June 4, 2013 - University of Guelph Release - How can people learn to live together in an increasingly global world? An important clue may be found through improvised performance practices, says University of Guelph professor Ajay Heble.
<p>
Somehow, musicians who have never rehearsed together or even met, who play different instruments, and who may not even share a common language can come together and make magic happen, he says.
<p>
<blockquote>“There’s something going on in the moment, something that resonates with musicians and artists adapting to each other,” said Heble, an English professor, musician, and artistic director and founder of the renowned Guelph Jazz Festival.</blockquote>
<p>
That “something” might translate to other venues and issues, providing lessons about co-operation, negotiating differences, fostering trust and meeting social obligations.
<p>
In fact, musical improvisation just may hold the key to building successful communities, here and around the globe, he says.
<p>
The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) seems to agree. The federal agency awarded Heble and his research team a $2.5-million Partnership Grant to launch an International Institute for Critical Studies in Improvisation. The announcement was made Friday by Gary Goodyear, minister of state, during the Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Victoria.
<p>
Following extensive peer review, Heble’s initiative was ranked No. 1 among finalists for the grant, which was one of 20 awarded nationwide. The new award builds on an earlier $2.5-million SSHRC Major Collaborative Research Initiatives (MCRI) grant.
<p>
<blockquote>“This is incredible news and well-deserved recognition of the groundbreaking work of Ajay and his team,” said Kevin Hall, vice-president (research).
<p>
“This prestigious grant is testimony to their creativity, ingenuity and innovation. They’ve established a new field of interdisciplinary study and firmly positioned Guelph as the leader in research on improvisation.”</blockquote>
<p>
The new institute stems from the Improvisation, Community and Social Practice (ICASP) research project directed by Heble, now in the seventh year of a seven-year SSHRC MCRI grant. ICASP uses musical improvisation as a model for building successful communities.
<p>
Heble plans to broaden the scope with the new partnered International Institute for Critical Studies in Improvisation. Using improvisation as a teaching and learning tool, he aims to improve society by bringing together the arts, scholarship and collaborative action.
<p>
The institute will involve 56 international scholars from 20 institutions -- including McGill University, University of British Columbia, Memorial University of Newfoundland and University of Regina – as well as more than 30 community partners.
<p>
<blockquote>“Our MCRI grant established such tremendous momentum – nothing like it existed previously – and we were looking for ways to sustain it in the long term. This institute at Guelph is the next phase in the development of our work,” Heble said.
<p>
“To know that our proposal was ranked first is fantastic. It’s wonderful when the work you are doing is recognized and appreciated.”</blockquote>
<p>
Institute programs will bring together people from different backgrounds and help build and sustain co-operation, change and adaptation, including in countries all around the world, focusing on three key research priorities: community health and social responsibility; practice-based research; and digital technology.
<p>
The venture will build on the successes of ICASP, including forging partnerships with varied groups, facilitating programs for children and at-risk youth through workshops, and creating novel software programs.
<p>
<blockquote>“What we’re doing is unique in the world. We’ve propelled Guelph into a world centre for improvisational music as a form of social practice, an engine for change,” Heble said.</blockquote>
<p>
He emphasized that conceptualizing the institute and developing the grant proposal was a collaborative effort.
<p>
<blockquote>“I’ve benefitted tremendously from the input, support, and involvement of many amazing people,” he said. “In so many ways, our project seems to me to represent an exemplary instance of what a vital, resilient, and socially engaged community can be.”</blockquote>
<p>
The team includes Prof. Daniel Fischlin, University Research Chair and professor in Guelph’s School of English and Theatre Studies; Prof. Frederique Arroyas, School of Languages and Literatures; Kim Thorne, ICASP project manager; Prof. Eric Lewis, McGill University; Prof. Ellen Waterman, Memorial University of Newfoundland; and Musagetes, a Guelph-based organization fostering community and culture through art.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-4024093324894758482013-05-29T06:21:00.000-07:002013-05-29T06:21:10.743-07:00Canada's big cities headed for financial crisis<p>
<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjwr0Tn9olD_o1BhacqbYCUBF3iBgt_5Ci4QFHyhwzBdYizNu_PoyFdJJl51RJwa1kxvHQfw1C4QWyzglwDBJ59ztFdsdWeQEdj7Qs9qzmDDfyqSvGezj6sA877VJrEYmiTDkkuy1gKGv/s1600/DSC02759.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjwr0Tn9olD_o1BhacqbYCUBF3iBgt_5Ci4QFHyhwzBdYizNu_PoyFdJJl51RJwa1kxvHQfw1C4QWyzglwDBJ59ztFdsdWeQEdj7Qs9qzmDDfyqSvGezj6sA877VJrEYmiTDkkuy1gKGv/s320/DSC02759.JPG" /></a></center>
<p>
<b>CFIB report demands an urgent conversation among local government leaders on overspending</b>
<p>
VANCOUVER, May 29, 2013 /Canada NewsWir/ - With municipal leaders from across the country gathering in Vancouver later this week for the annual Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) conference, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is calling on them to take action on municipal overspending. CFIB today released a report showing that spending has grown more than three times the rate of population over the past 12 years in Canada's three largest cities - Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver - and in Canadian municipalities overall.
<p>
<blockquote>"Most of us can appreciate that the cost of running our cities must keep pace with population growth, and factor in the cost of inflation," says CFIB executive vice president Laura Jones. "But our research shows spending is increasing by as much as three to eight times the rate of population growth in Canada's largest cities. Municipal officials claim they lack sufficient revenue, and argue that cities need even more revenue and increased taxing authority. Our report shows the real problem is overspending."</blockquote>
<p>
This spending problem is not just confined to Canada's largest cities. From 2000 to 2011, inflation-adjusted spending grew by 55 per cent in all Canadian municipalities while population only grew by 12 per cent. The increases in spending are largely driven by public sector wages and benefits which consume between 52 to 67 per cent of local government operating spending in the three big cities.
<p>
<blockquote>"From 2000 to 2011, city staff in all Canadian municipalities increased by 25 per cent, more than double population growth," says Mike Klassen, CFIB BC director of provincial affairs. "Combine that with wages and benefit packages that are more than one-third higher than comparable occupations in the private sector, and you can begin to understand the causes of overspending by our cities. It adds up to a cost of over $10,000 per Canadian family of four during the same period."</blockquote>
<p>
<blockquote>"It's time that we changed the conversation to move away from the persistent requests for new tax revenues from our local governments to one that addresses spending challenges—responsible policy-making depends on it," suggests Laura Jones. "CFIB hopes this report is a catalyst to start this critical conversation."</blockquote>
<p>
To read Big City Spenders report, please visit <a href="http://www.cfib.ca/">www.cfib.ca</a>.
<p>
CFIB is Canada's largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 109,000 members across every sector and region of the country.
<p>
<p>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-36309532868417859102013-05-20T06:03:00.000-07:002013-05-20T06:03:06.108-07:00New Book CATALYST - A Collection of Commentaries to Get Us Talking<p>
<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1dCHFzjVfWMELE4rb8g8TuQba-EzGg-yybU7bZsDXieLmjZx_sNeEr_H9YmcGRRwdpt8IbI8W1dVSZuYSzuj8ZPYAiyydekOdD_4Wc77P5rtSK3BJjLWMMzdjFAZheilMelRVf2jsl8W/s1600/20130520_C8442_PHOTO_EN_26909.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1dCHFzjVfWMELE4rb8g8TuQba-EzGg-yybU7bZsDXieLmjZx_sNeEr_H9YmcGRRwdpt8IbI8W1dVSZuYSzuj8ZPYAiyydekOdD_4Wc77P5rtSK3BJjLWMMzdjFAZheilMelRVf2jsl8W/s320/20130520_C8442_PHOTO_EN_26909.jpg" /></a></center>
<p>
VANCOUVER, May 20, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - An awareness of the problems around us isn't enough.
<p>
Understanding the issues - how they connect and affect and ripple out to the edges of our lives - is the only hope for a better tomorrow. Catalyst: A Collection of Commentaries to Get Us Talking is a tool to encourage conversation about subjects that are sometimes hard to talk about.
<p>
Alex Sangha has produced a critical, yet positive, book that covers a range of table topics from environmental conservation to reconciling religion and sexuality, to depression and arranged marriage.
<p>
What sets Sangha apart is that he doesn't just want readers to agree blindly with everything he says; he encourages critical thinking and debate by posing a question at the end of each article.
<p>
Catalyst is a great conversation starter and social discussion book designed for the informed citizen, as well as for parents and teachers who want to get young adults thinking and talking about the world around them.
<p>
Catalyst is a companion to The Modern Thinker, Sangha's well-received book of 2011. All the articles in The Modern Thinker have been revised and 10 new articles have been added.
<p>
<b>About the Author</b>
<p>
Alex Sangha is an award-winning social worker and human rights activist who lives and works in the Metro Vancouver area of BC. Sangha has advocated for marginalized people including those with mental illness, South Asian immigrants, and gays and lesbians. Sangha is always interested in meeting new people, developing new friendships and relationships, and learning new things. He believes anyone can bring about social change and make a difference; all it takes is effort.
<p>
<p>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-64138671380825234602013-03-30T04:52:00.000-07:002013-03-30T04:52:57.522-07:00Hospital CEO salaries continue to rise while frontline healthcare workers struggle to make ends meet<p>
<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXMSn4ztOvCCDyhyphenhyphenBNkDg3nQQnS54g_TP24AgjZ3iyMfo5RRbkBnLEkF1kBppXsGnvi9XZ5aOR1klMpM62xIR2iDCpk8dEXaKQpvmclV8eSkyfwZxa6Jr6A2DSGcw_RYdx8bhZPSMjKiJ/s1600/flickr4876.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXMSn4ztOvCCDyhyphenhyphenBNkDg3nQQnS54g_TP24AgjZ3iyMfo5RRbkBnLEkF1kBppXsGnvi9XZ5aOR1klMpM62xIR2iDCpk8dEXaKQpvmclV8eSkyfwZxa6Jr6A2DSGcw_RYdx8bhZPSMjKiJ/s320/flickr4876.jpg" /></a></center>
<p>
RICHMOND HILL, Ontario, March 28, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today's Sunshine List reveals that many of the CEOs of Ontario's hospitals continue to receive generous wage increases while salaries for frontline healthcare workers remain frozen.
<p>
<blockquote>"It's completely unacceptable that rich CEOs and administrators paid from the public purse should see their salaries increase while many on the frontlines of health care have had their $12 to $14 an hour wages frozen," said Sharleen Stewart, President of SEIU Healthcare, which represents more than 50,000 healthcare workers in Ontario.
<p>
"To fix the healthcare system in Ontario we need to start making investments on the frontline, not the bottom line, by putting a hard cap on the salaries of healthcare CEOs who have been pocketing millions, and close loopholes so that the wealthiest 1% pay their fair share toward public healthcare," continued Stewart.</blockquote>
<p>
The Sunshine List reveals the tremendous amount of money being spent on administration in the healthcare sector, which, if put into frontline services, would result in better care for patients. In fact, of every public dollar invested in homecare, only 35 cents goes to actual care.
<p>
In one of the most outrageous findings, the list reveals that Kevin Mercer, former CEO of the Waterloo Wellington Community Care Access Centre, collected a whopping half-million dollar pay package in 2012 despite being terminated after a government-commissioned report found "dysfunctional" management practices that led to long waiting lists and poor use of funds.
<p>
<blockquote>"With more than 6,000 people on waiting lists for homecare, families want to hear care will be there when they need it, not that CEOs have made off with the loot," said Stewart.</blockquote>
<p>
Meanwhile, hospitals continue to cut their budgets on government orders but still pay exorbitant salaries to their CEOs and senior managers.
<p>
<blockquote>"It's unconscionable that under budget cuts hospitals eliminate beds and lay off the front-line staff who deliver care to patients, while at the same time continuing to pay hospital CEOs and senior administrators hundreds of thousands of dollars," concluded Stewart.</blockquote>
<p>
<b>Selected highlights of the 2012 Sunshine List of wages / benefits:</b>
<p>
...$753,992 / $74,560 Robert S. Bell, President & CEO of the University Health Network, Toronto.<br>
...$737,003 combined - William Reichman, President & CEO Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, Toronto.<br>
...$714,999 / $45,627 Barry McLellan, President & CEO Sunnybrook Health Science Centre (A 2% increase in salary from ...$703,311 and nine fold increase in benefits from $5,184) Mr. McLellan's benefits alone are the equivalent of the annual salary of a full-time Registered Practical Nurse working 35 hours a week for 52 weeks.<br>
...10 Vice Presidents at Sunnybrook collected $3,588,622 in total compensation.<br>
...$690,201 combined - Joseph Mapa, President & CEO Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto.<br>
...$453,180 - Gillian Kernaghan, President & Chief Executive Officer, St. Joseph's Health Care, London. (A 6% increase in base salary from $428,700)
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-17017282674718941722013-03-20T09:24:00.000-07:002013-03-20T09:24:22.174-07:002013 Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts - National Gallery of Canada exhibition celebrates recipients<p>
<center><a href="http://www.messagerverdun.com/media/photos/unis/2012/02/06/photo_1994250_resize.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.messagerverdun.com/media/photos/unis/2012/02/06/photo_1994250_resize.jpg" /></a>
<p>
<i>Marcel Barbeau</i>
</center>
<b>On view from March 22 to June 23, 2013</b>
<p>
OTTAWA, March 20, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - From Friday, March 22 to Sunday, June 23, 2013, visitors to the National Gallery of Canada (NGC) will be able to admire outstanding works by the seven recipients of the prestigious 2013 Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts, awarded by the Canada Council for the Arts, in an exhibition that pays tribute to the laureates. The exhibition is organized by the NGC in collaboration with the Canada Council for the Arts and His Excellency The Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.
<p>
Significant pieces by painter and sculptor Marcel Barbeau; performance artist Rebecca Belmore; filmmaker and director William MacGillivray; sound artist and composer Gordon Monahan; artist-potter Greg Payce, recipient of the Saidye Bronfman Award; and sculptor Colette Whiten are showcased in the exhibition, as is the outstanding contribution of curator and art critic Chantal Pontbriand. The exhibition includes both loans from the laureates and works from the collection of the National Gallery of Canada.
<p>
<blockquote>"Once again this year, we are proud to present an exhibition that unites the outstanding works of these great Canadian artists, whose powerful artistic contributions have been shaping our visual arts landscapes for decades," said NGC director and CEO Marc Mayer.</blockquote>
<p>
The Awards, funded and administered for the 14th year by the Canada Council for the Arts, were announced March 12 during a press conference held in Montreal. They recognize distinguished career achievements in the visual and media arts by Canadian artists, as well as outstanding contributions through voluntarism, philanthropy, board governance, community outreach or professional activities.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-14724973249473989192013-02-28T07:28:00.000-08:002013-02-28T07:28:12.533-08:00United Church Says Limits to Freedom of Religion Are Reasonable<p>
<center><a href="http://www.news1130.com/files/2012/08/c32f4c8b46a0bce156dae24321b6-500x255.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.news1130.com/files/2012/08/c32f4c8b46a0bce156dae24321b6-500x255.jpg" /></a></center>
<p>
TORONTO, Ontario February 27, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - In a statement released this afternoon, the Moderator of The United Church of Canada, the Right Rev. Gary Paterson, welcomed today's Supreme Court ruling that says there are limits to freedom of religion when it comes to hate speech.
<p>
<blockquote>"Freedom of religion is not absolute," says Paterson. "It does not include the right to engage in religiously motivated hate speech, and it does not extend to conduct that harms or interferes with the rights of others."</blockquote>
<p>
Today's court decision, explains Paterson, confirms the position taken by the United Church when it appeared before the Supreme Court in October 2011 as an intervener in the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission versus William Whatcott appeal.
<p>
That appeal originated with a human rights complaint that was filed in Saskatchewan against William Whatcott, an activist who was found guilty and fined for distributing anti-gay flyers that he said expressed his religious beliefs about homosexuals. This ruling was later overturned by the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal.
<p>
For over 30 years the United Church has publicly condemned discrimination against gays and lesbians and has advocated for the inclusion of sexual orientation as a prohibited ground of discrimination in human rights legislation.
<p>
The church's long history of commitment to gays and lesbians placed it in a unique position to assist the Supreme Court by bringing different philosophical, religious, social, and moral perspectives from those being offered by other parties.
<p>
In its oral presentation to the court the church said, <blockquote>"The United Church strongly supports the robust protection of freedom of religion for all Canadians, including Mr. Whatcott. However, the United Church recognizes the difference between the expression of a religious view—even a controversial and unpopular view—and hate speech. A prohibition on the latter does not prevent anyone from exercising their freedom of religion."</blockquote>
<p>
The church argued <blockquote>"that all Canadians, including Mr. Whatcott, have the right to hold whatever beliefs their conscience dictates, no matter how abhorrent those beliefs may be to others. Likewise, all Canadians, including Mr. Whatcott, have the right to engage in public debate and to reasonably express their religious views, including views that are critical of homosexuals and other identifiable groups—provided that the words and expressions used are not so extreme, hateful, and dehumanizing that they cross the line into hate speech."</blockquote>
<p>
The United Church also argued that hate speech causes real and lasting harm to its victims and to Canadian society. That harm, said the church, is not reduced or mitigated simply because of a claim that the hate speech was motivated by religion. The harm is the same.
<p>
<blockquote>"Hate speech encourages derision, hostility, and abuse of already vulnerable persons, causing them pain, indignity, and loss of self-worth," says Paterson. "It encourages others to share in a hateful and discriminatory point of view, which damages Canadian society and threatens social stability."</blockquote>
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-75097862260974476252012-12-12T06:32:00.000-08:002012-12-12T06:32:49.938-08:00WestJet's Christmas Flash mob takes centre stage at Calgary airport<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbd-Vg6bJ1ExC-fbzPeAY1mlL60kNuUJsLP_xXhgUTJpDBTVpld28K8S0JyC1n6uq_s_sEPhu5zisj9HPi0xs1eWs3WptGMaCcovaVsg5aTbmN-ezIgPjiNevGa_PVe7UMdxdHEo-mrBy-/s1600/westjet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="170" width="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbd-Vg6bJ1ExC-fbzPeAY1mlL60kNuUJsLP_xXhgUTJpDBTVpld28K8S0JyC1n6uq_s_sEPhu5zisj9HPi0xs1eWs3WptGMaCcovaVsg5aTbmN-ezIgPjiNevGa_PVe7UMdxdHEo-mrBy-/s400/westjet.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<i><b>Airline's employees spread the love with impromptu holiday celebration</b></i>
<p>
CALGARY, December 11, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - <a href="http://www.westjet.com/">WestJet</a> today unveiled the company's first ever flashmob video on its YouTube channel. The three-minute WestJet Christmas Flashmob captures WestJet employees singing a variety of holiday favourites and spreading Christmas cheer throughout the D-wing boarding area of Calgary International Airport.
<p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/G9EJaDneTkQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>
The celebration took place moments before the departure of WestJet flight 652, December 4 sold-out flight travelling to Toronto at 11:30 p.m. Prior to pre-boarding, guests were welcomed by elves, carolers, snowmen breaking into song and and even ballerinas exiting the bridge. There was a visit from Santa, all dressed in - well - WestJet's signature blue. After the songs and dances had finished, guests were treated to a photo with Santa and a stocking filled with gifts from WestJet, including a new iPod.
<p>
<blockquote>"We can't think of a better way to wish our guests the very best this holiday season than with the WestJet Christmas Flashmob," said Corey Evans, WestJet Manager, Sponsorship and Community Investment. "Events like these directly align with WestJet's fun and friendly image and our commitment to deliver a remarkable guest experience."
<p>
"I want to thank all WestJetters who volunteered their time and took part in planning this wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season. We believe we are the first airline to implement something to this level of planning and co-ordination at a secure area of an airport and we're thankful for all the support from the Calgary Airport Authority for making this possible," concluded Corey Evans.</blockquote>
<p>
To celebrate the success of the flashmob, WestJet's community investment program, <a href="http://www.westjet.com/guest/en/about/community-investment/caring-kids.shtml">WestJet Cares for Kids</a>, will donate flights to reunite a family in need through one of the airline's partner charities, should the video generate 25,000 views on YouTube.
<p>
The airline hopes the video will mirror the viral success of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4SkoJy3D0M">Kargo Kids</a>, it's April Fool's Day video from earlier this year.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtOziQT00YAJ6Hf6KmCfEa1_glWTIMe_DlfBDxgAtjgI3tbwUU8MWF1Pa8vqE0QZOXXpFYvuwIAViTgE-Oe7ARjFFoP67AGj4SJDOGNqEGZ_En_Rg8X6OmUqaX05wO0GqnnoSJkFaFK-5C/s1600/westjet.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="42" width="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtOziQT00YAJ6Hf6KmCfEa1_glWTIMe_DlfBDxgAtjgI3tbwUU8MWF1Pa8vqE0QZOXXpFYvuwIAViTgE-Oe7ARjFFoP67AGj4SJDOGNqEGZ_En_Rg8X6OmUqaX05wO0GqnnoSJkFaFK-5C/s320/westjet.gif" /></a></div>
<b>About WestJet</b>
<p>
WestJet is Canada's most preferred airline, offering scheduled service to 81 destinations in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. Powered by an award-winning culture of care, WestJet has pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. Recognized nationally as a top employer, WestJet now has more than 9,000 WestJetters across Canada. Operating a fleet of 100 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft with future confirmed deliveries for an additional 35 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft through 2018 and plans to launch a low-cost regional airline in 2013, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.
<p>
Connect with WestJet on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/westjet">www.facebook.com/westjet</a>
Follow WestJet on Twitter at <a href="http://www.twitter.com/westjet">www.twitter.com/westjet</a>
Subscribe to WestJet on YouTube at <a href="http://file///C:/Users/HOTEL%20GUEST.SOR-LINK082410.001/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/jsanford/Local%20Settings/ngreen/rfrancis/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/OLKCC/www.youtube.com/westjet">www.youtube.com/westjet</a>
<p>
<p>
ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-26182017123356736042012-12-07T06:15:00.001-08:002012-12-07T06:15:43.844-08:00Patient Care Not a Numbers Game<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtpc5cobGhAt08HqqCRwMHiBljC8-dvsHwxcfaU94XbXSZnNPZx_yI7Z-T93xqVYiA71XJ-A2GZvnMKIh7oV0EoOMUnfknhLcJagPWSZxYW6DMW5eZT9PU6_zH1SNy5MHlq2eGgQWyYpV/s1600/alzheimers-s4-doctor-patient.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="256" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtpc5cobGhAt08HqqCRwMHiBljC8-dvsHwxcfaU94XbXSZnNPZx_yI7Z-T93xqVYiA71XJ-A2GZvnMKIh7oV0EoOMUnfknhLcJagPWSZxYW6DMW5eZT9PU6_zH1SNy5MHlq2eGgQWyYpV/s400/alzheimers-s4-doctor-patient.jpg" /></a></div><b>National health human resources plan badly needed, physician groups say</b>
<p>
OTTAWA, December 6, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Canadian associations representing doctors, residents and medical students agree that Canada needs a better way to anticipate the future supply of physicians. A new national health human resources plan is critical to ensuring that the health care system is able to meet the future needs of Canadians.
<p>
The Canadian Medical Association (CMA), the Canadian Association of Internes and Residents (CAIR) and the Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS) see a number of contradictory trends, all of which underscore the need for better planning so that Canada has the right number, mix and distribution of health professionals.
<p>
New data indicates that the number of physicians in Canada has increased faster than the size of the population. Yet many communities across the country, particularly those in rural and remote areas, face shortages of family doctors and specialists. In another apparent paradox, many new specialists complete years of training only to face a lack of job opportunities.
<p>
<blockquote>"Total numbers of physicians don't tell the whole story," says Dr. Anna Reid, President of the Canadian Medical Association. "Whether we have an adequate supply of doctors depends completely on the demand for their services. We need better plans and strategies to meet changing and growing patient demands."</blockquote>
<p>
Fiscal constraints are also inhibiting the hiring of physicians to the point that the prospects for employment are a real concern in some specialties. A recent survey by the CAIR found close to one-third of resident physicians to be less than confident about their job prospects.
<p>
<blockquote>"We are seeing that residents in some specialties are having employment challenges," said CAIR President Dr. Simon Moore. "Job prospects are a growing concern for residents, but they should also be a concern for policy makers. If we want the right health care providers to match our future needs, we need a national response to health human resources now. Patients depend on access to specialists in their communities."</blockquote>
<p>
One of the problems faced by medical students and residents is a lack of information on the job prospects for the various specialties, said Canadian Federation of Medical Students President Robin Clouston.
<p>
<blockquote>"This is not only about finding ways to match how we train physicians and where they practise to meet the needs of patients," Clouston said. "It also makes good economic sense to not waste the extensive investment of time and money that go into physician training."</blockquote>
<p>
The CMA, CAIR and CFMS are working together to gather and share the most up-to-date data on employment prospects and other information on medical and surgical specialties to ensure that future physicians are able to find work where patients need them most.
<p>
Reid noted that getting the right number and mix of doctors, as well as of other health professionals such as nurses and physician assistants, is a complex issue that requires all levels of government, medical schools and national physician organizations to work together. The goal would be to develop a framework that would ensure Canadians have adequate health care services where they need them and that costly, high quality medical training isn't squandered.
<p>
<blockquote>"There's no question that the planning work being undertaken by associations representing doctors, residents and medical students must be matched by a commitment from the federal, provincial and territorial governments," Reid said.</blockquote>
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-67957411562984564842012-10-25T06:17:00.001-07:002012-10-25T06:17:23.852-07:00Downloading disability support to municipalities "a disaster" for vulnerable Ontarians<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gh0pulXywJ1s6RZk6bbWk-W19nN6JIawIYqbBnaUpK0E_Pzg1uZZdafGT1smPjUQqvfGZVaZK-aD3agJ2cxa9nsuVJKOc38dC-A0EAd2iE9pZj3wAHp1rl9ox2NfitTTjsN42XsLB-25/s1600/stockexc2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gh0pulXywJ1s6RZk6bbWk-W19nN6JIawIYqbBnaUpK0E_Pzg1uZZdafGT1smPjUQqvfGZVaZK-aD3agJ2cxa9nsuVJKOc38dC-A0EAd2iE9pZj3wAHp1rl9ox2NfitTTjsN42XsLB-25/s400/stockexc2014.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
TORONTO, October 24, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today's recommendations by the Commission for the Review of Social Assistance to download the Ontario Disability Support Plan (ODSP) and integrate it into Ontario Works will leave thousands of vulnerable Ontarians without long-term income support and force people with disabilities into precarious, low-wage jobs says the Ontario Public Service Employees Union.
<p>
OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas said that these recommendations are a disaster for people with disabilities and are a giant step backwards in improving services.
<p>
<blockquote>"When you look at these recommendations, it is plain that the only goal here is to take money out of the pockets of those who are the most vulnerable and can least afford it," Thomas said.</blockquote>
<p>
The Commission's recommendations include that ODSP services be individually controlled by municipalities who could set their own client asset limits, and puts an emphasis on forcing persons with disabilities into what will likely be minimum-wage, part-time jobs.
<p>
<blockquote>"What we are going to wind up with is a mishmash of services and rates across Ontario with no central oversight and a system that cares less about the individual and more about budgets," Thomas said. "It will also become another bureaucrat job-hiring program as each municipality puts in their own management structure. This is Local Health Integration Networks all over again."</blockquote>
<p>
Thomas is asking the government to set aside these recommendations and continue the current overhaul of ODSP that was designed to end delays and provide long-term seamless support to clients.
<p>
<blockquote>"The Ontario government must retain provincial control of a program that cares for our most at-risk people," Thomas said. "Duplicating services and bureaucracies across the province will only result in the loss of these services for those who desperately need them."</blockquote>
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-79694872943440572502012-09-12T12:37:00.000-07:002012-09-12T12:37:15.150-07:00Ontario's Doctors Urge Partners to Join the Fight Against Obesity<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XEHLPREXLia-O6IYTSsOomxh7Iohw4fAGPkh5tiNH7ARzXlR0wJ0GYGFaF5Qr0xT7cWBsgqdBbzVt1ihZTS13y57RM2Gi26Qljc78THXMSuZ1eonhfhw-QWc1hk-MZWi9B95s0enV-aZ/s1600/4421084204_aeeced6e84_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="268" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XEHLPREXLia-O6IYTSsOomxh7Iohw4fAGPkh5tiNH7ARzXlR0wJ0GYGFaF5Qr0xT7cWBsgqdBbzVt1ihZTS13y57RM2Gi26Qljc78THXMSuZ1eonhfhw-QWc1hk-MZWi9B95s0enV-aZ/s400/4421084204_aeeced6e84_b.jpg" /></a></div>TORONTO, September 12, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Speaking on a panel of health care experts today in Toronto, Ontario Medical Association President Dr. Doug Weir called on the government and the food service industry to partner with Ontario's doctors in fighting the province's growing obesity epidemic. Specifically, Dr. Weir renewed Ontario's doctors' call for restaurants and school cafeterias to post caloric and sodium content on their menus to equip consumers with the information they need to make healthier choices for themselves and especially for their children.
<p>
Ontario's doctors know firsthand about childhood obesity and the negative impact it has on their quality of life. In Ontario, 75 per cent of obese children become obese adults, and there is evidence linking type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, certain types of sleep apnea, and the development of chronic kidney disease later in life to children who are overweight or obese. Overall, the health impacts of overweight and obesity are estimated to cost Ontario $2.2 to $2.5 billion per year.
<p>
However, Ontario's doctors believe the trend towards increased obesity is one that can be reversed. Menu labelling is an essential first step toward healthy eating, and will greatly help efforts to prevent the increase in obesity rates, by educating consumers about calories, and with efforts to control hypertension associated with excess sodium consumption.
<p>
<blockquote>"If you want to manage your weight, you have to watch your calorie intake. Calorie labelling is the only way to get us there. It is essential that people have the information that they need to make healthy food choices for themselves and their kids. Calorie counts and information about high-salt foods will help those trying to avoid obesity and high blood pressure.
<p>
We're not telling people to what to eat, but if you're watching your salt or your calories, this information may help you balance your food choices." - Dr. Doug Weir, President, Ontario Medical Association</blockquote>
<p>
<b>Quick Facts:</b>
<p>
...A quarter of children in Ontario are overweight or obese;<br>
...There is evidence linking type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, certain types of sleep apnea and the development of chronic kidney disease later in life to children who are overweight or obese;<br>
...Over 75 percent of obese children become obese adults;<br>
...Overall, the health impacts of overweight and obesity are estimated to cost Ontario $2.2 to $2.5 billion per year.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-64136031014399526552012-09-04T06:32:00.000-07:002012-09-04T06:32:27.324-07:00National Grandparents Day<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtawBPxjubSzvbMrVMlXQOA2j0Hp1OCXTuWUAj5QVvkAXlXViyZPIvCwRJeknaVCrcyoeCSt4G1eZLhVP7FM7W1s5oawgxEwcclYePgsN1SWLStzxGlqBwaBPAGVWgUQRYSdTXheh_NTol/s1600/77738823_b2288d026e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtawBPxjubSzvbMrVMlXQOA2j0Hp1OCXTuWUAj5QVvkAXlXViyZPIvCwRJeknaVCrcyoeCSt4G1eZLhVP7FM7W1s5oawgxEwcclYePgsN1SWLStzxGlqBwaBPAGVWgUQRYSdTXheh_NTol/s400/77738823_b2288d026e.jpg" /></a></div>Grandparents Day is this Sunday, September 9. We honour our grandparents every day!
<p>
In 1970, a West Virginia housewife, Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, initiated a campaign to set aside a special day just for Grandparents. In 1978, the United States Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day. The proclamation was signed by President Jimmy Carter. (September was chosen to signify the "autumn years" of life.)
<p>
The statute cites the day's purpose as: <blockquote>"...to honor grandparents, to give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children, and to help children become aware of strength, information, and guidance older people can offer".</blockquote>
<p>
McQuade made it her goal to educate the youth in the community about the important contributions seniors have made throughout history. She also urged the youth to "adopt" a grandparent, not just for one day a year, but rather for a lifetime.
<p>
National Grandparents Day began in Canada in 1995. Motion Number 273 submitted in the House of Commons by Mr. Sarkis Assadourian read:
<p>
<blockquote>That, in the opinion of this House, the government should consider designating the second Sunday in September of each year as grandparents day in order to acknowledge their importance to the structure of the family in the nurturing, upbringing and education of children.</blockquote>
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-41195355781696597202012-08-07T12:56:00.001-07:002012-08-07T12:56:18.276-07:00Heart-to-Heart: Canadian Adults Wary of Having "The Talk" with their Parent(s)<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DSvsyKyY-N8wflbsh1A6bUyoAYzu9PeM2D8ddETAbxgYwaTkpGxeYXhV2g88FgsBwel2Ex4_IdzdPaPPyRdet_U3vDlzA9knikYSrH7i_bIG6dkh7opEKuHrFkWxA7JMJcd8-B1uM2h0/s1600/2422861332_bb14329c40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DSvsyKyY-N8wflbsh1A6bUyoAYzu9PeM2D8ddETAbxgYwaTkpGxeYXhV2g88FgsBwel2Ex4_IdzdPaPPyRdet_U3vDlzA9knikYSrH7i_bIG6dkh7opEKuHrFkWxA7JMJcd8-B1uM2h0/s400/2422861332_bb14329c40.jpg" /></a></div><i>New program helps to break the ice and get Canadian adults and their parent(s) talking about a serious heart condition that can lead to stroke</i>
<p>
TORONTO, August 7, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Many parents feels anxious about the inevitable talk about the "birds and bees" with their children - sitting their kids down and explaining the facts. However, when the tables are turned and the "kids" become adults, having "The Talk" with their parent(s) about sensitive health issues can be really uncomfortable. A recent survey shows about 60 per cent of Canadian adults with living parent(s) regularly do not have "The Talk" about health issues with their parent(s) and almost a third (30 per cent) say they don't quite know how to start conversations with them about sensitive health topics.
<p>
<b>Breaking the Ice</b>
<p>
Having "The Talk" about health issues is very important - especially when it comes to a condition like atrial fibrillation (AF) and its link to stroke. If you have AF, a serious heart condition, your risk of stroke is considered three to five times higher than those without AF. Fortunately - with a physician's help and by taking some practical steps - you can take action to lower this risk.
<p>
<blockquote>"The survey makes it clear that Canadians understand how debilitating strokes can be, but for whatever reason it seems that they aren't talking about AF and stroke with their parents," says Dr. Frank Silver, Professor of Medicine (Neurology), University of Toronto. "We need to open the lines of communication to encourage Canadians 55 years and older to proactively raise the topic during their next doctor's visit to get checked and if needed, start treatment to reduce their risk."</blockquote>
<p>
To help break the ice, new tools are available at <a href="http://www.strokeandaf.ca/">www.StrokeAndAF.ca</a> - an educational resource available to Canadians with information about AF and stroke. For Canadians who can't find the words themselves to have "The Talk" with their parent(s), they can send a customizable video featuring a barbershop quartet as a gentle door opener to start "The Talk". After all, everything sounds better set to music. Once sent, they can refer to the "The Talk" Tip Sheet which provides helpful advice on how to approach this tricky conversation.
<p>
<b>Tongue Tied</b>
<p>
When asked which common illnesses they believe would cause the greatest strain if their parent(s) were diagnosed, strokes (47 per cent) were the second most common behind cancer (74 per cent). However, strokes (15 per cent) were last on a list of conditions Canadians said they've talked about with their parents, behind high blood pressure (41 per cent), cancer (31 per cent) and diabetes (25 per cent). What's even more telling is that more than half of Canadians with living parents (54 per cent) admit they have never heard of AF and after receiving a definition of AF, most (77 per cent) admitted they didn't know that AF leads to an increased risk of stroke.
<p>
<blockquote>"Strokes, including those related to AF, can be devastating for the individual and for their family and friends," says Ian Joiner, Director, Stroke, Heart and Stroke Foundation. "It's important to get Canadians talking about AF. The more people know about AF and its link to stroke, the greater chance there is of people taking action and lowering their risk."</blockquote>
<p>
<b>Tips for Starting "The Talk"</b>
<p>
To help Canadian adults initiate "The Talk" with their parent(s) about AF and its link to stroke, they can follow the steps below:
<p>
<b>...Start early.</b> Knowing that a person's risk of developing AF increases with each decade of life beginning at age 55, it may be best to start the conversation right around that time. Better to have "The Talk" than risk them having a stroke and wishing they had raised the topic sooner.
<p>
<b>...Be supportive and understanding.</b> The parent may not know how to initiate a discussion about their health for fear of causing alarm among their adult children. What's more, health concerns can become more frightening as one ages. Add to that the concept of growing more dependent on your children, and it could tongue-tie even the most talkative person. One way to break the ice is to start by the adult child letting their parent know how much they care for them - this will help set the tone for the conversation and will put them at ease.
<p>
<b>...Use everyday opportunities to initiate "The Talk."</b> Parents may resist a formal talk, so it's good to use everyday opportunities as an occasion to start a discussion. For example, while in the car together, adult children can bring up a recent website they visited (<a href="http://www.strokeandaf.ca/">www.StrokeAndAF.ca</a>), or television ad they saw about AF, and ask if they've heard about it and how it is linked to stroke. It's also important to gently suggest they raise it with their physician the next time they are in, as not everyone will experience symptoms of AF.
<p>
For more tips or to send a customized video to a loved one, Canadians can visit <a href="http://www.strokeandaf.ca/">www.StrokeAndAF.ca</a>.
<p>
<b>About AF and Stroke in Canada</b>
<p>
Approximately 350,000 Canadians are currently living with AF. People with AF are three to five times more at risk of having a stroke than those without AF, and twice as likely to die from one. After the age of 55, the incidence of AF doubles with each decade of life, and if left untreated, it can lead to stroke. After age 60, one-third of all strokes are caused by AF.
<p>
The irregular heartbeat caused by AF, which can be asymptomatic, leads to the heart pumping less efficiently. Sometimes it can pool and get stuck in the heart, which may result in the formation of a blood clot. A clot formed this way can be transported in the blood stream to the brain where it can cause a stroke. For those who survive a stroke, the disabilities can be significant, including: paralysis; loss of speech and understanding; effects on the memory, thought and emotional processes.
<p>
According to the Stroke Network, in Canada, stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death with up to 15 per cent of strokes being caused by AF. Stroke costs the Canadian economy approximately $3.6 billion a year in physician services, hospital costs, lost wages, and decreased productivity. In the six-month period following a stroke, the direct and indirect health care cost for each patient is about $50,000. People with non-disabling strokes spend up to $24,000 during the first six months. The acute period after a stroke accounts for 80 per cent of the overall six month costs. Families also take on a greater proportion of stroke related expenses including those associated with care giving, transportation, and lost income.
<p>
<b>About the Survey</b>
<p>
The survey was completed online from June 18 - 21, 2012, with a sample size of 896 Canadians aged 18+ with at least one living parent. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of +/-3.0%, 19 times out of 20.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_o2lgRh_2RZHb2DQHg9mgftUNv1dyrKgYIenjLk1FCejtQx2z1gxN3z9JTFdmyv6SbyNuw7HfJPHKh_4FYcDLMKSrtEbbxvAWFSesA2wTMkJ4LzttBw97QYh7Nv7mZ8W_Bv0puWe0P4n-/s1600/BoehringerIngelheimlogo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="69" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_o2lgRh_2RZHb2DQHg9mgftUNv1dyrKgYIenjLk1FCejtQx2z1gxN3z9JTFdmyv6SbyNuw7HfJPHKh_4FYcDLMKSrtEbbxvAWFSesA2wTMkJ4LzttBw97QYh7Nv7mZ8W_Bv0puWe0P4n-/s400/BoehringerIngelheimlogo.gif" /></a></div>
<b>About Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.</b>
<p>
The Boehringer Ingelheim group is one of the world's 20 leading pharmaceutical companies. Headquartered in Ingelheim, Germany, it operates globally with 145 affiliates and more than 44,000 employees.
<p>
Since it was founded in 1885, the family-owned company has been committed to researching, developing, manufacturing and marketing novel products of high therapeutic value for human and veterinary medicine. As a central element of its culture, Boehringer Ingelheim pledges to act socially responsible. Involvement in social projects, caring for employees and their families, and providing equal opportunities for all employees form the foundation of the global operations. Mutual cooperation and respect, as well as environmental protection and sustainability are intrinsic factors in all of Boehringer Ingelheim's endeavours.
<p>
In 2011, Boehringer Ingelheim posted net sales of 13.2 billion euro while spending almost 24% of net sales in its largest business segment Prescription Medicines on research and development.
<p>
The Canadian headquarters of Boehringer Ingelheim was established in 1972 and the Research and Development Centre located in Laval, Québec, Canada. Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. is home to more than 750 employees including 170 scientists across the country.
<p>
For more information please visit <a href="http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.ca"> www.boehringer-ingelheim.ca</a>
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-48693026193754901922012-07-31T11:35:00.000-07:002012-07-31T11:35:17.398-07:00Public Health Agency of Canada has launched its video series Something you ate?<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtMeBaYeZolYiA1_O1bOB8SBngEDS9glm71o_G1WaVTCp3DGZycZMRM4h9UysvHRaGbSJwTVQdEEaXM8kLSA4EvtMvvXoNQTGVNdIlE0uChenmmVwwpgP_L7lGXNLJM_NIGVKf7sRDxM-/s1600/USDAResearch14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtMeBaYeZolYiA1_O1bOB8SBngEDS9glm71o_G1WaVTCp3DGZycZMRM4h9UysvHRaGbSJwTVQdEEaXM8kLSA4EvtMvvXoNQTGVNdIlE0uChenmmVwwpgP_L7lGXNLJM_NIGVKf7sRDxM-/s320/USDAResearch14.jpg" /></a></div>OTTAWA, July 30, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Public Health Agency of Canada has launched its video series Something you ate? The four-part series explains how the Agency detects and investigates outbreaks of foodborne illness, also commonly known as food poisoning.
<p>
The first two episodes are now available.
<p>
<b>Episode 1:</b> <a href="http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fs-sa/videos/video01-eng.php"> Outbreak Response - The Big Picture</a> (response summary)
<p>
<b>Episode 2:</b> <a href="http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fs-sa/videos/video02-eng.php"> Tracking the Source</a> (epidemiological investigation)
<p>
The videos were developed to help Canadians understand how an investigation into outbreaks of foodborne illness unfolds. They can be viewed individually, but together they tell the full story of our outbreak response and explain how people can protect themselves against illness.
<p>
The videos will be released on the PHAC website and YouTube channel on a weekly basis. We invite you to watch and share them with your audiences through your social media networks as well as through traditional streams.
<p>
Each video will be supported by extra web material, including links to our new fact sheets on pathogens, interactive material and the Government of Canada food safety web portal.
<p>
Watch for new episodes on these dates:
<p>
<b>August 3:</b> Episode 3: Tales from the Lab (lab investigation)
<p>
<b>August 10:</b> Episode 4: Protecting Yourself (food safety tips)
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-65650462973362062582012-07-03T11:32:00.000-07:002012-07-03T11:32:35.945-07:00All aboard! VIA Rail Canada and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship collaborate to help Canada's newest citizens explore our country<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7HUt9rt_uiCCZC_Ps04BAsoDys6k1rzCM2oSE-vRbmpHOQcqn3xza1IQa07lk0a2znG_8eviW4qTX14Jx3bn_IIaGPsgXyH5NJxmixOvDJPdWuQq6Vs5yWQACRuTucZkBJlvfQE0m4Ov/s1600/VIARockies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="301" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7HUt9rt_uiCCZC_Ps04BAsoDys6k1rzCM2oSE-vRbmpHOQcqn3xza1IQa07lk0a2znG_8eviW4qTX14Jx3bn_IIaGPsgXyH5NJxmixOvDJPdWuQq6Vs5yWQACRuTucZkBJlvfQE0m4Ov/s400/VIARockies.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<center><i>photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chibeba/">chibeba</a> Via Flickr
<p>
New citizens to receive an exclusive VIA offer<br> through the ICC's Cultural Access Pass program</i></center>
<p>
TORONTO, July 3, 2012 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - VIA Rail Canada and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) have collaborated to provide new Canadian citizens, who are members of the ICC's Cultural Access Pass (CAP) program, with a one-time, exclusive travel offer: a 50 per cent discount on the lowest available fare, any class, one way or round trip, no blackout periods, for CAP members and up to four of their children under the age of 18.
<p>
The Cultural Access Pass program fosters inclusion, introducing our country's newest citizens to Canadian culture and experiences by providing them (and their children) a year of free access to more than 1,000 Canadian attractions from museums and historic sites to national and provincial parks (even offering access to volunteer and employment resources). With an average of almost 100 registrations per day, more than 50,000 new citizens have become Cultural Access Pass members.
<p>
<blockquote>"We are thrilled to join the Institute for Canadian Citizenship to bring train travel to our newest fellow Canadians," said VIA Rail President and CEO, Marc Laliberté. "Travelling by train is a truly unique experience, one that connects travellers with Canada's historical, cultural and natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming many new Canadian citizens on board as they discover all of the wonderful experiences this country has to offer."</blockquote>
<p>
VIA Rail's significant travel offer complements the Cultural Access Pass's ability to engage new Canadian citizens with their country by discovering many of its remarkable attractions. With services from Vancouver to Halifax, VIA Rail connects some 450 communities across the country, giving CAP members plenty of travel experiences to choose from.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit82-ZOvEbQShCG5cEQyl9H2EcK04W6v1Fultmdrxyw8rPd5OvE0LY_zEf-9lHL_cwbFUdIygtrNT_L8rrMQThJcln6PD5ct2gPOQNj6jMHyPYlZql3GJ0X0gNuVsH0wpiYLu6dVIhsIPJ/s1600/VIARailCanada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit82-ZOvEbQShCG5cEQyl9H2EcK04W6v1Fultmdrxyw8rPd5OvE0LY_zEf-9lHL_cwbFUdIygtrNT_L8rrMQThJcln6PD5ct2gPOQNj6jMHyPYlZql3GJ0X0gNuVsH0wpiYLu6dVIhsIPJ/s320/VIARailCanada.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<center><i>photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whereisandrewnow/">where is andrew now</a> Via Flickr</i></center>
<p>
CAP members are an engaged audience, interested in exploring their new home from coast-to-coast. In a recent ICC survey, 80 per cent expressed a desire to travel within Canada over the next year, listing their top Canadian travel destinations as Atlantic Canada, Vancouver, the Rocky Mountains, Montréal and Ottawa.
<p>
<blockquote>"Our relationship with VIA Rail is a dream come true to someone like me who was once a new Canadian wishing to discover a new country," said The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, Institute for Canadian Citizenship's Co-Founder and Co-Chair. "The opportunity it presents for our Cultural Access Pass members is truly wonderful."</blockquote>
<p>
Gillian Hewitt Smith, the ICC's Executive Director & CEO adds:
<p>
<blockquote>"Now, not only are we able to open doors to cultural attractions and parks, we can also provide new citizens with a wonderful way to travel. CAP is only possible because of organizations like VIA Rail Canada who work to meaningfully include new citizens in Canadian life."</blockquote>
<p>
CAP's ability to welcome and engage new citizens was recognized by the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism as well as the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport); both announced this exciting offer during Canada Day celebrations in Canada's Capital Region and Vancouver.
<p>
With the vital support of Citizenship and Immigration Canada, the Cultural Access Pass is introduced to every new Canadian citizen at the time of their citizenship ceremony (approximately 170,000 people per year). As the diversity and value of CAP experiences increase, so too will the pace and rate of new registrations - this year alone, the ICC estimates an additional 35,000 new members!
<p>
CAP is generously supported by the Canadian Museums Association and the RBC Foundation. Details about the Cultural Access Pass program, including the list of participating attractions as well as full details about the VIA Rail Canada offer, can be found here: <a href="http://www.icc-icc.ca/en/cap/">culturalaccesspass.ca</a>.
<p>
<b>About the ICC</b>
<p>
The Institute for Canadian Citizenship is a national, non-profit organization that engages Canadians in citizenship through innovative programs, campaigns and partnerships designed to ensure new citizens are welcomed and included as equals, to create meaningful connections among all Canadian citizens, to foster a culture of active, engaged citizens and to celebrate what it means to be Canadian. Our Building Citizenship program brings together new and established Canadians at community citizenship ceremonies; our Cultural Access Pass (CAP) offers new citizens the chance to visit more than 1,000 attractions across Canada for free for a full year from the time they're sworn in; and our annual LaFontaine-Baldwin Symposium fosters a debate on the future of citizenship and Canada's civic culture. The ICC was founded and is co-chaired by the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson and John Ralston Saul. The ICC is supported by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). For more information, visit icc-icc.ca. You can also follow us on Twitter (@ICCICC).
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0K5Xlb67clAjKKhmMm-CxWX3i77GXk1288O9Bl2KAwrsOTkWLOGvbSpmE9aPcHF7AktlIO3TB_E7A0GnagARUXPAws0wa7KI0tTqSQ_YLEK6X7UYrMQLfPrNySXkmRelou7zTWgXx_sVj/s1600/vialogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0K5Xlb67clAjKKhmMm-CxWX3i77GXk1288O9Bl2KAwrsOTkWLOGvbSpmE9aPcHF7AktlIO3TB_E7A0GnagARUXPAws0wa7KI0tTqSQ_YLEK6X7UYrMQLfPrNySXkmRelou7zTWgXx_sVj/s400/vialogo.jpg" /></a></div><b>About VIA Rail Canada</b>
<p>
As Canada's national rail passenger service, VIA Rail Canada's (<a href="http://www.viarail.ca/">viarail.ca</a>) mandate is to provide safe, efficient, environmentally sustainable passenger transportation, in the country's two official languages. Every week, VIA operates intercity, regional and transcontinental trains linking 450 communities across its 12,500-kilometre route network. Winner of the 2011 RAC Safety Award, VIA transports over four million passengers annually. Since 2007, the Government of Canada has provided VIA with nearly one billion dollars in capital investment funding. Follow the evolution of current projects at <a href="http://www.viarail.ca/transformingVIA"> viarail.ca/transformingvia</a>. Join the Evolution Blog at <a href="http://www.viaevolution.ca/">viaevolution.ca</a>.
<p>
Follow VIA on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/via_rail">@VIA_Rail</a>. Visit VIA on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/viarailcanada"> facebook.com/viarailcanada</a>.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-63050551028416201552012-06-29T07:55:00.001-07:002012-06-29T07:55:57.489-07:00Purple Day now legally recognized in Canada<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbNtUSXkscuQifw31t4BHpipK6UlCt7PYzwj8YnZ0KgjMLVSZcPMXZmq07r6ayLIJ9Gr6qUCsyB3xV1ird3ko96cobHvN0ENFgtcR40EQjInK0ZcLQFWCSAdLKUiIYLuWKd7cLMjR1pAB/s1600/purpledaylogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="236" width="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbNtUSXkscuQifw31t4BHpipK6UlCt7PYzwj8YnZ0KgjMLVSZcPMXZmq07r6ayLIJ9Gr6qUCsyB3xV1ird3ko96cobHvN0ENFgtcR40EQjInK0ZcLQFWCSAdLKUiIYLuWKd7cLMjR1pAB/s400/purpledaylogo.jpg" /></a></div><i>Act promoting epilepsy awareness receives Royal Assent</i>
<p>
HALIFAX, June 29, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - An Act representing a day to increase public awareness about epilepsy, Bill C-278, has received Royal Assent and is now a legally recognized day for epilepsy awareness in Canada. The Bill establishes March 26 as Purple Day, a day each year when Canadians wear purple to promote a greater awareness of epilepsy and support the 300,000 Canadians living with the disorder. Inspired by Cassidy Megan, Purple Day dispels the myths about epilepsy and helps people living with the disorder understand that they are not alone.
<p>
Hon. Geoff Regan, M.P. for Halifax West, wrote the Private Member's, Bill C-278 (The Purple Day Act), in late 2008. Since then, Bill C-278 has progressed through the necessary steps in the House of Commons and Senate, to become law.
<p>
<blockquote>"The swift passing of this Bill is a meaningful show of support for the 300,000 Canadians living with epilepsy and their families," said Regan.</blockquote>
<p>
<blockquote>"I am so grateful that Mr. Regan and Parliament believed in me and Purple Day, and showed the 300,000 Canadians living with epilepsy that they care and that we are not alone," said Cassidy Megan, Purple Day founder. "I also want to thank the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia and the other member agencies of the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance for helping me make my dream come true."</blockquote>
<p>
According to a survey titled The Impact of Epilepsy on Canadians, conducted in late 2011 by Leger Marketing, many Canadians living with epilepsy experience social isolation, work barriers and relationship issues. Over half of the survey respondents (56 per cent) say that restricted independence due to epilepsy is their number one challenge. Stigma, discrimination and a lack of awareness about epilepsy is cited by 38 per cent as the number two challenge, along with the impact of the disorder on their social life. The third biggest challenge facing Canadians with epilepsy is maintaining employment, with half saying their job choices are restricted, and just under 40 per cent unable to get a job if they disclose their condition.
<p>
<blockquote>"On behalf of the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance, I would like to thank Mr. Regan for writing the Private Member's Bill and Parliament for passing this legislation," said Deirdre Floyd, Chair of the Purple Day Campaign and Vice-President of the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance. "To my knowledge, this is the only legislation of its kind in Canada. I strongly believe that Purple Day will help to further our national mandate to support public awareness for epilepsy and research for those living with this serious neurological condition."</blockquote>
<p>
<b>About Purple Day</b>
<p>
Purple Day for Epilepsy is celebrated each year on March 26 and is dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy. It helps reduce stigma and empowers individuals living with epilepsy to take action in their communities. Purple Day was founded in 2008 by nine-year-old Cassidy Megan of Nova Scotia, and named after the internationally recognized colour for epilepsy, lavender. Purple Day was launched internationally in 2009. The Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia and the Anita Kaufmann Foundation in the United States are the Global Partners for the Purple Day Campaign. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.purpleday.org/">www.purpleday.org</a> and to view Bill C-278, please visit <a href="http://bit.ly/L4cy5u"> http://bit.ly/L4cy5u</a>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1ggv6dnBMQgAO4VzVJ6vr5NoAfk9bpfyh6ViURuVyncga14xQtd8Tnqu4tBpmeTadJ5Lp7ElW3YJln2PmSlboaB2Z7HQ4IWxyhzmNQoKnsjhJpVH9lrRwMKVw5YUKZ9SkfeYDCexnwTc/s1600/cdnepilepsylogo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="130" width="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1ggv6dnBMQgAO4VzVJ6vr5NoAfk9bpfyh6ViURuVyncga14xQtd8Tnqu4tBpmeTadJ5Lp7ElW3YJln2PmSlboaB2Z7HQ4IWxyhzmNQoKnsjhJpVH9lrRwMKVw5YUKZ9SkfeYDCexnwTc/s400/cdnepilepsylogo.gif" /></a></div>
<b>About the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance</b>
<p>
The Canadian Epilepsy Alliance (CEA) is a Canada-wide network of 27 grassroots organizations dedicated to the promotion of independence and quality of life for people with epilepsy and their families, through support services, information, advocacy, and public awareness. As the voting member of the International Bureau of Epilepsy (IBE), the CEA is the voice for those living with epilepsy in Canada and internationally. The IBE is the international organization that serves to develop, support and link national epilepsy organizations around the world and exists to improve the quality of life of all people with epilepsy and their families and caregivers. The Canadian Epilepsy Alliance works with the IBE and participates in global initiatives representing those living with epilepsy in Canada. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.epilepsymatters.com/">www.epilepsymatters.com</a>.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-2659680032644812772012-06-20T10:01:00.000-07:002012-06-20T10:01:08.677-07:00Lack of qualified inspectors will place nursing home residents at risk - OPSEU<p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWYZvWkSfLLKM8qxzlyBltB9bG2BnKVpjGvnVdG0DlhtD2Xx2kbOgeqUSiQr9H5KoHSpEMzvBkXeCFcJc-5ly8JFGN0I68nzUCMgi-3sOguCSRVo27Hjcic4cfmBLaugJ8yl6cg2a1Fqy/s1600/3737606478_e6bedff9bc_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWYZvWkSfLLKM8qxzlyBltB9bG2BnKVpjGvnVdG0DlhtD2Xx2kbOgeqUSiQr9H5KoHSpEMzvBkXeCFcJc-5ly8JFGN0I68nzUCMgi-3sOguCSRVo27Hjcic4cfmBLaugJ8yl6cg2a1Fqy/s400/3737606478_e6bedff9bc_o.jpg" /></a>
<p>
TORONTO, June 20, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care is sending inspectors out to conduct investigations which they are not educated and trained to do says the Ontario Public Service Employees Union. Nursing home residents are being placed at risk to save money on inspection.
<p>
OPSEU says prior to July 2010, when new laws came into force, nursing inspectors would investigate complaints and critical incidents including issues of abuse or activities of daily living, such as continence care, hygiene, behaviour management, wound management or falls. The nursing inspections require a review of clinical records, progress notes, medication records and a resident's medical diagnosis.
<p>
The other two types of inspectors, dietary and environmental, would focus their inspections only on issues relating to their area of education and training.
<p>
<blockquote>"Now these dietary and environmental inspectors are being asked to evaluate the residents' care records - which are completely out of their scope of practice," says Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President of the 130,000 member OPSEU. "Not only that, but these inspectors have never had any training in how to navigate the various software programs the homes use in order to review the resident health records. They have little idea whether or not what they are looking at is relevant."</blockquote>
<p>
Environmental inspectors are certified public health inspectors with expertise in infection prevention and control. They look at such issues as maintenance, housekeeping, infection control, safety, building security and pest control.
<p>
Dietary inspectors are registered dietitians with expertise in nutrition care and hydration, food production, menu planning and clinical record reviews related to weights and food and fluid intakes for example.
<p>
Meanwhile, the nurses are being asked to do inspections that include issues related to pest control, door security, maintenance and environmental infection control - an area of expertise normally covered by the environmental inspectors.
<p>
The inspectors say they have to rely heavily on their specialty discipline colleagues for assistance with their inspection reports, to ensure they have captured everything correctly. The inspectors become ultimately accountable for these reports.
<p>
<blockquote>"The government is trying to save money by sending inappropriate inspectors out to conduct inspections they are not trained for," says Thomas. "This completely undermines the process."</blockquote>
<p>
Last year there were nearly 6,000 complaints and critical incidents the inspectors were asked to investigate. That's on top of the more detailed annual inspections - sometimes referred to as "resident quality inspections" (RQI) which take more than two weeks to complete. With the limited number of inspectors available, many homes will not receive a detailed inspection for years. Most homes in Ontario received their last full inspection prior to 2010.
<p>
Last week OPSEU reported the shortage of adequately educated and trained inspectors has led to lengthy delays in investigating these complaints and critical incident reports.
<p>
New legislation enacted in July 2010 requires the homes to report many different types of critical incidents such as abuse and injuries - all of which must be investigated. Coupled with increases in complaints regarding resident care issues, the number of inspectors has not kept up with the workload.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-58412469262244449042012-06-09T10:19:00.000-07:002012-06-09T10:19:18.210-07:00Launch of Forest Recovery Canada Ensures a Healthier Future for all Canadians<p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUz71z_QgM2MpPPHIuP_5S3S-7xj82c5JlhwZMHK7kmwoOnSIuJ-GYmocphQyGAxcFTPaKRLkY5_P9sJpBxlcWCv2D5BpYDWNPDVcH_r-KSI0M2QIZB8iZUb0lsJmZ2xf3a3DmLAb0UHb/s1600/2861498840_89701f714f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="268" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUz71z_QgM2MpPPHIuP_5S3S-7xj82c5JlhwZMHK7kmwoOnSIuJ-GYmocphQyGAxcFTPaKRLkY5_P9sJpBxlcWCv2D5BpYDWNPDVcH_r-KSI0M2QIZB8iZUb0lsJmZ2xf3a3DmLAb0UHb/s400/2861498840_89701f714f_b.jpg" /></a><center><i>Forest Loss and Fragmentation Compromising the Health of Canadians<br> and Contributing to Biodiversity Losses, Prompting the Need<br> for a National Forest Recovery Program</i></center>
<p>
TORONTO, June 8, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Forest Recovery Canada (FRC), a national tree planting program dedicated to enhancing Canada's environmental health and climate change adaptation through innovative and leading-edge forest restoration practices, was launched today by Trees Ontario.
<p>
Forest fragmentation has become increasingly common across the Canadian landscape by way of agricultural land uses, residential and commercial development, road construction, forest fires and invasive species. Loss of forest cover in the settled landscapes of Canada is contributing to an unstable ecosystem resulting in habitat loss, environmental degradation and an inability to adapt to the effects of climate change. With our forests in jeopardy, there is urgency in the need to expand and intensify tree planting and forest restoration initiatives nation-wide.
<p>
<blockquote>"Forest Recovery Canada works with partners across the country to identify tree planting opportunities that will establish contiguous and diverse forests that extend beyond the geopolitical boundaries of our cities and provinces," says Rob Keen, CEO of Trees Ontario, during the launch of the ENGO's new national program. "Trees Ontario has experienced incredible success in re-greening Ontario but the need for increased forest cover within settled landscapes is a national matter. Through the development of an extensive network of environmentally conscious individuals, corporations and tree planting agencies, FRC will enhance the resilience of our ecosystems, enabling them to adapt to the effects of environmental change while sustaining a healthier human population."</blockquote>
<p>
Video: Forest Recovery Canada has been launched to restore the fragmented landscape in the settled regions of Canada.
<p>
<center> <object width="320" height="200" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"><param name="movie" value="http://fpdownload.adobe.com/strobe/FlashMediaPlayback.swf"></param><param name="flashvars" value="src=rtmp%3A%2F%2F%5Bstream1.newswire.ca%5D%2Fvod%2Fmp4%3A/media/2012/06/08/20120608_C6548_VIDEO_EN_14865.mp4&poster=http%3A%2F%2Fphotos.newswire.ca%2Fimages%2F20120608_C6548_PHOTO_EN_14865.jpg"></param><param name="autostart" value="true"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://fpdownload.adobe.com/strobe/FlashMediaPlayback.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" autostart="true" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="320" height="200" flashvars="src=rtmp%3A%2F%2F%5Bstream1.newswire.ca%5D%2Fvod%2Fmp4%3A/media/2012/06/08/20120608_C6548_VIDEO_EN_14865.mp4&poster=http%3A%2F%2Fphotos.newswire.ca%2Fimages%2F20120608_C6548_PHOTO_EN_14865.jpg"></embed></object> </center>
<p>
Healthy forests play an important role in the foundation of resilient ecosystems. Trees replenish our oxygen, absorb carcinogenic pollutants in our air and purify our lakes and rivers. Healthy and sustainable forests have also proven essential for economic development and diverse employment opportunities. As well, forests and green spaces have been linked to a significant decline in asthma, heart disease, diabetes and stress, decreases in the severity of attention deficit disorders in children, improved rehabilitation, faster hospital recovery rates and longer life spans.
<p>
<blockquote>"A growing body of evidence suggests that human mental and physical health is closely associated with the health of our forest ecosystems," says Steve Hounsell, President and Chair of Trees Ontario. "An investment in our natural environment is an investment in our own health and well-being. Poor environmental conditions will not only lead to an unstable ecosystem, but may also increase the incidence of a wide array of illnesses."</blockquote>
<p>
Forest Recovery Canada recognizes the relationship between the health of forest ecosystems and human health and the need to expand and intensify tree planting efforts nation-wide. This program aims to build consensus, leverage resources, raise awareness and stimulate action to plant trees and enhance urban and rural ecosystems. Increased forest cover will result in healthy and resilient watersheds that offer valuable natural goods and services essential for sustaining a healthy society and a prosperous economy.
<p>
Rob Keen, a Registered Professional Forester, urges all Canadians to join the recovery efforts.
<p>
<blockquote>"Canada's forests need us now more than ever. Whether you are a local tree planting agency, a socially responsible corporation or an eco-conscious citizen, you can support Forest Recovery Canada's efforts to restore the health of our environment."</blockquote>
<p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRHurgo4360kJy1bKSkuXVRubA1o3VSVXiRPhlV6ZwfGJdv6b6gIg2vNAMWuDomlfbETDvAkyJ_ttOfbkdz1_7NNrx2o7l9Ag3kZmUTs24gpVRw1VtaVkEGmuF5wTZYf_Yy2Cuc5MLPuk/s1600/frclogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="110" width="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRHurgo4360kJy1bKSkuXVRubA1o3VSVXiRPhlV6ZwfGJdv6b6gIg2vNAMWuDomlfbETDvAkyJ_ttOfbkdz1_7NNrx2o7l9Ag3kZmUTs24gpVRw1VtaVkEGmuF5wTZYf_Yy2Cuc5MLPuk/s400/frclogo.jpg" /></a><b>About Forest Recovery Canada</b>
<p>
Administered by Trees Ontario, Forest Recovery Canada (FRC) is a national tree-planting program dedicated to innovative and leading-edge forestry practices. FRC works with an extensive network of tree planting organizations and environmentally conscious individuals and corporations to enhance the health of Canada's ecosystems through scientifically based tree planting and forest management practices. <a href="http://www.frc-rfc.ca">www.frc-rfc.ca</a>
<p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx2VQ9izPoYDxGly6uHMa2hlwIHr_K9imxY416YRbknIjr3vFZpXS6C8TtmnpuyVUkM7KJMhYK1975cWYWbXNHSZ6yPErBIRgEZdCZCG7i87NZPXYUiOie3Iq4v4-RbnR82PZIzG1fKOq/s1600/treesontlogo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="89" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx2VQ9izPoYDxGly6uHMa2hlwIHr_K9imxY416YRbknIjr3vFZpXS6C8TtmnpuyVUkM7KJMhYK1975cWYWbXNHSZ6yPErBIRgEZdCZCG7i87NZPXYUiOie3Iq4v4-RbnR82PZIzG1fKOq/s400/treesontlogo.gif" /></a><b>About Trees Ontario</b>
<p>
Trees Ontario, working with its partners, is the largest, not-for-profit tree planting partnership in North America. It is committed to the re-greening of Ontario through a range of tree planting activities.
<p>
The goal of Trees Ontario is to restore Canada's tree planting capacity by providing funding and planning support for its tree planting partners. These include local Conservation Authorities, Ontario Stewardship Councils, First Nation communities, municipal governments and community volunteer groups. <a href="http://www.treesontario.ca">www.treesontario.ca</a>.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-61451294742770591302012-05-16T05:08:00.000-07:002012-05-16T05:08:45.964-07:00Agroforestry Project Helping Improve Life in Ghana<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvgsqbqRyRSLk4Sf1V0AgZS-E8BNsjMKJBwv6FrWJXzLW7gf3YfdogTr-HpTRgm-sIRHJjxFW-380rHe6pHdreu-_WqC6zqnaU9df-CWyx4Oqg5P66Iw9OtkXLpP45uPNYJLK0pG7c_zE/s1600/GhanaTrees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvgsqbqRyRSLk4Sf1V0AgZS-E8BNsjMKJBwv6FrWJXzLW7gf3YfdogTr-HpTRgm-sIRHJjxFW-380rHe6pHdreu-_WqC6zqnaU9df-CWyx4Oqg5P66Iw9OtkXLpP45uPNYJLK0pG7c_zE/s400/GhanaTrees.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<center><i>photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/plant-trees/">treesftf</a>/via Flickr</i></center>
<p>
GUELPH, Ontario May 15, 2012 - University of Guelph News Release - Using agroforestry to enhance livelihoods in resource-poor communities is the goal of a six-year-old collaboration by scientists from the University of Guelph and Ghana, backed by a $3-million Tier 1 grant from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
<p>
The project partners hope to improve income generation and food security, and strengthen Ghana’s vision of becoming West Africa’s centre of excellence in agroforestry.
<p>
Researchers from U of G and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana, will discuss the project during a public meeting May 22, 7 p.m., in Rozanski Hall, Room 102.
<p>
Much of Ghana is plagued by poverty, chronic food insecurity, and poor health and nutrition.
<p>
“The increasing degradation of the natural resource base relied upon by rural communities is a major contributor to a persistently low quality of life,” said Naresh Thevathasan, an adjunct professor in the School of Environmental Sciences (SES) and manager of U of G agroforestry research. He oversees the project with SES professor Andy Gordon.
<p>
Agroforestry land-use technologies (farming crops along with trees and/or animals) were identified in the Ghana Poverty Reduction Strategy among the most important aspects of environmentally sustainable cropping practices.
<p>
The U of G team has helped train students of agriculture and natural resources management in Ghana, established research projects, and supported sustainable farming practices to improve rural economies and community health in partner villages.
<p>
Speakers at the public meeting will discuss the project and promote further dialogue on international development, Thevathasan said.
<p>
The Ghana project marked the first time U of G had received Tier 1 funding. Tier 1 projects are managed by CIDA’s universities and colleges program and promote major development and institution-building projects.
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1621374245156022377.post-5545521529733005872012-05-02T08:31:00.000-07:002012-05-02T08:31:02.731-07:00Launching of an internet social network for the family!<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjP6ABEvuiwPeYVZ4YSKeWq-naHYqp4yR1kg6Di-DmR5NQHc8HHCBax1nBMM1apXIAXOSmbCHCzgy4_Adl2IsdMFFknPeoVTAV-6TIbxnO_aHgJ7JiPSY_tYmX04w4qee0r8nV57fGtKN/s1600/wilby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjP6ABEvuiwPeYVZ4YSKeWq-naHYqp4yR1kg6Di-DmR5NQHc8HHCBax1nBMM1apXIAXOSmbCHCzgy4_Adl2IsdMFFknPeoVTAV-6TIbxnO_aHgJ7JiPSY_tYmX04w4qee0r8nV57fGtKN/s400/wilby.jpg" /></a></div>NEW YORK and TORONTO, May 2, 2012 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - With already thousands of members from 20 different countries, WILBY.TV today officially launched its English version in the United States and Canada. "The Universe of WILBY™" is a fun, educational and 100% safe online social universe for children and their family, available free at <a href="http://www.wilby.tv">www.wilby.tv</a>
<p>
<b>About the Universe of Wilby™</b>
<p>
Founded by three entrepreneurs and fathers concerned about Internet use among young people, and education at school and in the home, "The Universe of WILBY™" is an online social universe helping children six and older and families around the world to flourish and grow healthily by offering effective personal development tools and a safe, fun and educational online entertainment environment.
<p>
<b>An Ingeniuosly Designed Social Universe for Children</b>
<p>
"The Universe of Wilby™" is designed for children aged 6 to 12 years. With parental support, its young members can create their own avatars, express themselves, communicate, learn other languages, earn points, watch videos, post their accomplishments, earn rewards and participate in multiplayer educational games already played in over 20,000 primary schools.
<p>
This online world also offers an educational animated TV series where the main character, a ten year old boy named Wilby, experiences the daily realities of today's children and tells his stories to correspondents who write to him from around the world.
<p>
<b>A More Constructive Alternative</b>
<p>
For parents, WILBY.TV represents a great alternative to other virtual worlds such clubpenguin.com, barbie.com and moshimonsters.com. Although very entertaining, they do not compare in the strength of educational and constructive support offered by "The Universe of Wilby™".
<p>
<b>A Growing Social Movement for the Positive Development of Youth</b>
<p>
Available for only a few months in French, WILBY.TV already has thousands of active members from around the world and its popularity is growing every day! Adaptations in Spanish and Mandarin will be available in the coming months. "The Universe of WILBY™" is much more than an online world! It's actually a fast growing social movement rallying children and families worldwide around a common cause: the positive development of the youth of today and tomorrow.
<p>
<b>Wilby Affiliate Program</b>
<p>
To accelerate its international expansion, the company has implemented a strategically designed affiliate program for web entrepreneurs who wish to become involved in marketing WILBY.TV in their area. For more information on the Wilby affiliate program,
visit: <a href="http://wilby.tv/visite/en/affiliates.html"> http://wilby.tv/visite/en/affiliates.html</a>
<p>
<b>About the Company</b>
<p>
Wilby Inc. was founded in 2010 by three Canadian fathers, David Banford, Jimmy Bouchard and Rejean Gauthier, who wanted to offer positive and educational entertainment to their children.
<p>
To learn all about the Universe of WILBY™ in just 2 minutes:
<p>
<center><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BfE-eLti82E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>
<p>
<p>ol' dufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17480137823828557838noreply@blogger.com