#1. INDIA’S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN OF PIO’S AND NRI’S
India’s Ministry of Overseas Indians has announced the scholarship scheme for children of Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) for the year 2009.
Highlights of the scheme:
* 100 scholarships are being offered for undergraduate courses in several disciplines, including Engineering / Architecture / Technology, Humanities / Liberal Arts, Commerce, Management – BBA / BBM, Journalism, Hotel Management, Agriculture / Animal Husbandry, Sciences, and Law.
* The program is open only to PIOs / NRIs from the specified 40 countries having a larger concentration of Indian Diaspora.
* 50% of the scholarship would be reserved for PIOs. However, in the event of non-availability of suitable PIO candidates, the unfilled slots could be assigned to NRI candidates.
* NRI candidates would be eligible for the grant of scholarship only if their total family income per month does not exceed an amount equivalent to US$2,250.
* Children of NRIs should have pursued at least three years of education inclusive of 11th and 12th or equivalent (not beyond), in a foreign country during the last six years, and should have passed the qualifying examination abroad.
* The last date for receipt of duly filled-in application forms in the prescribed format by Ed.CIL is September 9, 2008.
* PIO / NRI students already studying in India on a self-financing basis or under any other arrangement will not be eligible under this scheme, which is open only for fresh admissions in the first semester / year of undergraduate courses.
* Candidates would be selected on the basis of a common entrance test to be conducted by Ed.CIL on October 26, 2008, at Mission / Post. Exact timings would be intimated by Ed.CIL. The candidates would also have to fulfill all the criteria prescribed for the purpose.
* The amount of scholarship admissible would be 75% of the Institutional Economic Cost (IEC) or US$3,600, whichever is less. IEC includes tuition fee, hostel fee and other institutional charges.
#2. NDP: CAMPBELL IGNORES NEED FOR SKYTRAIN ATTENDANTS
The Liberal government continues to ignore the top safety priority for SkyTrain passengers – the need for on-site security attendants at stations, say the New Democrats.
In response to Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon’s plan to spend millions of dollars installing privatized turnstiles at SkyTrain stations, Bruce Ralston, the NDP MLA for Surrey-Whalley, said the government’s top priority should be commuter safety.
”The best way to address the safety deficit on SkyTrain is to have on-site security attendants, beginning immediately at high-risk stations,” said Ralston. “Attendants equipped to monitor all sites within the SkyTrain area – turnstiles, ticket stations, platforms, parking areas and pedestrian approaches – would certainly be a deterrent to criminals.”
“Turnstiles are only part of the solution; the Campbell government needs to get moving on the other key elements required to improve security on our transit system.”
A survey done last month for TransLink confirms that riders believe on-site attendants are needed to address ongoing security concerns at SkyTrain stations.
When asked: “What specific changes should be made to improve your feeling of personal security (on SkyTrain?” 52 per cent of telephone respondents and 58 per cent of on-line respondents expressed a desire for more SkyTrain attendants. Less than 10 per cent said to add turnstiles.
“We want more people to take SkyTrain – it’s important for traffic congestions and it’s important for the environment. That means we need SkyTrain to be safe,” said Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver-Kingsway.
Dix and the NDP have laid out a 10-point plan to address safety concerns at SkyTrain stations. Included in that list is the need for each station to have at least one security personal on site at all times, improve lighting at the stations, and implement a pilot “safe-walk” program for five high-risk stations.
#3. FREE CANADIAN EYESIGHT GLOBAL CAMP AT MIRI-PIRI
Canadian Eyesight Global sponsored by Rotary Club of Surrey-Guildford organized a free eye clinic at Miri-Piri at Surrey’s Guru Nanak Sikh Temple’s Seniors Centre. About 180 people of all ages had their eyes screened by Dr. David Naima, Dr. G. S. Attariwala, Dr. Warren, Dr. Amit Mathur, Dr. Lao and Dr. Sonia Sandhar. Volunteers included Darshan Mann, Vicki, Davinder Sandhar, Anup Jubbal, Saroop Jubbal, Neal and Dolly Lucente. Sukh Dhaliwal, M.P. for Newton-North Delta, and other dignitaries also attended the camp.
Canadian Eyesight Global is in the process of establishing an Eye Hospital and Prevention of Blindness Center, in village Chabba, about 8 km from Amritsar. Punjab. Canadian Eyesight, formerly Project Eyesight India, has successfully sponsored and carried out over 47,000 free cataract surgeries and over 100,000 people have been treated for avoidable blindness in rural parts of India since 1989. The Rotary Club of Surrey-Guilford has donated a Medical Mobile Van, which will be utilized in the rural areas of Punjab for eye screening.
Any member of the Indo-Canadian community interested in supporting the establishment of the eye hospital near Amritsar or sponsoring an eye camp in their village in Punjab and other parts of India can contact Canadian Eyesight Global. The cost of each cataract surgery is $35 for a minimum of 100 surgeries. The total cost comes to $3,500. Contact Anup S. Jubbal, President, Canadian Eyesight International, at (604) 582-0579, or go to www.CanadianEyesight.org or email:asjubbal@CanadianEyesight.org.
#4. PREMIER’S STATEMENT ON ANNIVERSARY OF KOMAGATA MARU
Premier Gordon Campbell made the following statement on July 22 to mark the 94th anniversary of the steam liner Komagata Maru’s forced departure from Vancouver:
“Tomorrow we mark the anniversary of a tragic and deeply regrettable moment in history for our province and for our country.
“On July 23, 1914, Canadian and B.C. officials used a highly discriminatory “exclusion law” to compel the Komagata Maru to leave Vancouver harbour. After two months of negotiation only 24 of the original 376 passengers from Punjab, India – all citizens of the British Commonwealth – were permitted to disembark and remain in Canada.
“The Komagata Maru incident is a reminder how far we have come in understanding that no one should be turned away from our shores or discriminated against in any way because of the colour of their skin, their beliefs, or ethnic background. This principle of tolerance and respect for all cultures was underscored in the British Columbia legislature on May 23 of this year when the Province officially apologized for the treatment of passengers aboard the Komagata Maru in 1914.
“Today, multiculturalism is enshrined in the Canadian Constitution and reflected in British Columbia’s laws, policies and communities. Our province’s strength is drawn from our diversity and from the fact that British Columbians celebrate the contributions that people of all cultural backgrounds make to our economy and quality of life.”
#5. PUNJABI MARKET ASSOCIATION SEEKS COMMUNITY INPUT FOR GATE PROJECT
The Original Punjabi Market Association of Vancouver is selecting members of the Indo-Canadian community to the “Punjabi Market’s Gate Project” Advisory Committee.
The Punjabi Market Association has been actively working with all levels of government, and has proposed for a gate to be constructed in the only officially designated Punjabi Market outside of India. The market, located on Main Street in Vancouver, would become home to a gate dedicated to descendants of India who have contributed to the development of Canada for over 100 years.
The role of the advisory committee would be to provide input into the construction and development of the gate, and assist with fundraising efforts.
Punjabi Market Association President Daljit Singh Sidhu said: “Premier Gordon Campbell and Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan and Council have already acknowledged support for this project. This historic monument will stand forever, so it is very important for us to have the input and support of the Indo-Canadian community that has become part and parcel of this beautiful province of British Columbia and the country of Canada.”
Individuals interested in being selected to the advisory committee will need to submit their resumes, with a cover letter indicating their interest, and what they feel this gate should represent.
Members will be selected under the following designations:
* Historian * Pioneer * Culture * Arts * Engineering (Structural Design) * Youth * Business / Finance * Law * Other
All applications must be submitted through email to sidhuds@hotmail.com no later than August 8.
Contact: Daljit Singh Sidhu, President, Original Punjabi Market Association of Vancouver.
#6. LIBERALS: SHORT-TERM WORKERS NOT LONG-TERM SOLUTION FOR IMMIGRATION
The Conservative government's plan to deal with Canada's immigration challenges continues to be a short-sighted and abject failure, Liberal Immigration Critic Maurizio Bevilacqua said this week.
He said: "The Conservatives' focus on bringing more temporary workers into Canada, rather than attracting permanent residents is just another example of how this government would rather use stopgap measures to address one of Canada's greatest economic and population challenges. It is no surprise that their approach is failing miserably."
Media reports show that while the numbers of temporary foreign workers coming to Canada are soaring, the rate of permanent residents arriving in Canada has declined for the second straight year, dropping by 15,000. The overall drop in Canadian immigration numbers was attributed to acute backlogs in the system.
"This government has no long-term plan to use immigration to help Canada meet it's economic and population growth challenges," said Bevilacqua. "This is adversely affecting our status as destination of first choice, as fewer people are choosing Canada as their home at a time when immigration is most vital to Canada's success."
Bevilacqua also pointed out that the Conservatives' record on immigration is one of making things worse, not better.
"Every year since coming to power the Conservatives have refused to adequately fund the immigration system and slashed the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada," he said. "To add insult to injury, they have tried to hide this fact from Canadians by combining permanent resident, temporary worker and student categories into a single reported number.
"We need real action on immigration, not creative accounting to hide the truth. If the Conservative government doesn't get serious about improving the long-term sustainability of Canada's immigration system, then that system may very well be under threat."
#7. BC VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION AWARDED SIGNIFICANT COSTS AS GROUP WITHDRAWS THREE LAWSUITS
The BC Supreme Court has awarded "increased costs" to the British Columbia Veterinary Medical Association (BCVMA) and other defendants following the recent discontinuance of three Supreme Court actions which had been brought against the association by a group of veterinarians led by Dr. Hakam Bhullar.
Justice Barry Davies granted permission to the plaintiffs to discontinue three Supreme Court actions last month. In that hearing, the plaintiffs’ requested that the judge refrain from imposing any cost consequences against them. Davies made it clear at the hearing that the plaintiffs will indeed be required to pay costs, and has now released his Reasons for Judgment in which he awards the defendants “increased costs” for the three actions. An award of increased costs means that the plaintiffs will be required to pay one and a half times the amount of costs normally ordered by the Supreme Court under its Tariff of costs.
The judge said he is awarding the increased costs to the BCVMA and other defendants for "what I consider to be the unusual circumstances arising from the plaintiffs' disregard of their litigation obligations that, in my view, amounts to misconduct."
Davies described the plaintiffs' statements of their claims as "abysmally deficient". He noted "the plaintiffs' persistent refusal to provide particulars" of their claims "resulted in the defendants being required to gather evidence and produce documents to mount a defence of justification without knowing the case to be met... ".
He noted that the plaintiffs had failed to follow his orders and directions regarding document disclosure, that Dr. Bhullar had deposed in an affidavit that the BCVMA had not produced documents when it was clear on the record that the BCVMA had indeed done so, and that the plaintiffs’ counsel's disclosure of particulars was "wholly inadequate.”
Davies also said "the plaintiffs’ non-compliance with their obligations under the Rules and with regard to orders and directions cause me to question whether the plaintiffs ever had any intention of proceeding to trial".
"We are satisfied with the judge's decision, and are relieved that these particular matters have finally been resolved," said Dr. David Kirby, President of the British Columbia Veterinary Medical Association. "The judge's ruling is quite clear in spelling out his reasons for awarding the higher costs and we are glad that we will be granted some relief from the costs associated with defending these claims against the association."
The British Columbia Veterinary Medical Association is the statutory body created to serve the interests of the public and animals through the regulation and advancement of the veterinary profession in B.C. The BCVMA's mandate is to create, promote and enforce a high standard of qualification, conduct and competence by practitioners of veterinary medicine.
The decision of Mr. Justice Davies is available on the Supreme Court and BCVMA websites at www.courts.gov.bc.ca/Jdb-txt/SC/08/09/2008BCSC0905.htm and www.bcvma.org.
#8. BC UNIONS FILE CHARTER CHALLENGE AGAINST ELECTION GAG LAW
This week, lawyers representing seven BC unions filed documents and launched a legal challenge against Bill 42.
Bill 42 originally attempted to restrict third party election advertising for five full months before the next provincial election. Following widespread criticism, Bill 42 was amended but still goes far beyond any similar laws in the country and essentially shuts off all third party election advertising for three months before the next election.
The Statement of Claim filed this week alleges that Bill 42 violates constitutionally-protected rights to freedom of expression by restricting reasoned political discourse and by preventing groups from effectively communicating their positions on election issues before and during an election campaign.
Lawyers will also argue that Bill 42 infringes on an individual's freedom of association by preventing individuals from collectively exercising their freedom of expression in the pursuit of common goals.
The claim also alleges that Bill 42 violates an individual's constitutionally-protected right to vote by preventing individuals from effectively bringing their concerns and views to the attention of MLA's during the pre-campaign period.
"Democratic governments should protect and defend the rights of citizens not trample them when it's politically expedient," says B.C. Federation of Labour President, Jim Sinclair. "Bill 42 is Gordon Campbell's attempt to silence critics and control the airwaves for months before the next election."
Representing the unions in the Supreme Court of British Columbia will be lawyers Joseph Arvay, Q.C. and Leo McGrady, Q.C.
The legal challenge is being prepared on behalf of: Canadian Union of Public Employees (BC Division) , BC Teachers' Federation, Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union 378, BC Nurses' Union, BC Government and Service Employees' Union, Federation of Post Secondary Educators, and the Hospital Employees' Union.
#9. ANNUAL FIJI FESTIVAL DRAWS A HUGE CROWD
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The annual Fiji Festival was held on July 12 at Graham Bruce School ground in Vancouver.
The festival started with O Canada and Blessing Grant. This was followed by a welcome address by Vincent Puran Prakash, President of the Fiji Indian Association and producer and director of Jai Fiji TV Production.
Any Fijian event would be incomplete without a Yagona ceremony. Yagona was presented to the guests of honour – MP Sukh Dhaliwal, MLAs Shane Simpson, Adrian Dix, Richard Lee, Raj Chohan and Dave Hayer and Burnaby Councillor Sav Dhaliwal. Premier Gordan Campbell sent his greetings to the people.
After the Yagona, Polynesian and Indian dancers entertained everyone and Dix led the other guests of honour to the stage to join in the dancing.
Sav Dhaliwal and Raj Chohan said they would like to invite the festival organizers to hold the festival in Burnaby. A large audience watched the various performances.
Festivities were not limited to entertainment and food. There were special return tickets for two to Hawaii and the winners were Vijay Prasad and his wife from Surrey.
#10. PREMIERS CALL ON FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FOR RESOURCES FOR IMMIGRATION SYSTEM
The Conservative government must listen to Canada’s premiers and invest the necessary resources in our immigration system, Liberal Immigration Critic Maurizio Bevilacqua said this week.
He said: “The federal government must reverse recent cuts to permanent residents admitted to Canada and invest the necessary resources in the immigration system to get the backlog down. Canada’s premiers understand that we must increase immigration and investment in the system to fuel Canada’s economy. It is a point that the Conservative government should take seriously.”
Quebec Premier Jean Charest called on the Conservative government to "invest the necessary resources to reach a reasonable level” at last week’s meeting of the Council of the Federation in Quebec, which he hosted.
Charest was referring to the current immigration backlog and said he would like to see the total number of backlogged requests reduced from more than 900,000 to 200,000 by 2011.
Bevilacqua went on to point out that the Conservative’s current plan to deal with Canada’s immigration challenges is short-sighted and will not work.
“The Conservative’s current plan to reject large numbers of immigrants without even considering their applications is not going to deal with Canada’s long-term labour and population needs,” he said.
“As Canada draws nearer to 2011, a time when our country’s net labour force growth will depend exclusively on immigration, we must reverse Conservative cuts to permanent residents admitted to Canada and provide the resources the system needs to process applications and welcome new Canadians.”
Bevilacqua pointed out that the Conservatives’ record on immigration is one of making things worse, not better.
“Unfortunately, every year since coming to power the Conservatives have refused to adequately fund the immigration system and slashed the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada. And to add insult to injury, they have tried to hide this fact from Canadians by combining permanent resident, temporary worker and student categories into a single reported number.
“We need real action on immigration, not creative accounting to hide the truth.”
#11. PNWER CALLS FOR STREAMLINED TRADE, TRAVEL OVER BORDER
Getting the holders of enhanced driver’s licences across the border faster and allowing them to use their cards for North American flights are among the key recommendations to streamline cross-border travel and trade issued by the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region at the 18th PNWER annual summit in Vancouver, John van Dongen, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General announced this week.
He said: “The 2009 World Police and Fire Games and the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are just two of the region’s next major tourism opportunities. But congestion and delay at the border could sour their benefits if we don’t act now to streamline and improve day-to-day travel and trade in advance of these events. Expanding the enhanced driver’s licence program is one of several key recommendations to make the border more efficient for trade and tourism and more effective at keeping our countries safe.”
More than 500 B.C. enhanced driver’s licences (EDL) are now in use for Canada-U.S. land and sea border crossings under the first phase of the EDL program.
Federal Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day said: “Our government is committed to smart and secure borders. That is why today I am encouraged by the ongoing collaboration between the various partners involved in the Pacific Northwest Economic Region and their efforts to streamline cross-border travel and trade, under the new Border Charter. Canada is working hard every day to ensure the secure and efficient flow of legitimate people and goods.”
The new PNWER Border Charter calls on the two federal governments to ensure a convenient and welcoming border crossing experience for travellers and the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, reduce congestion and streamline flows of legitimate trade and travel, and improve outreach and expansion of frequent border crossing programs.
Stephen Regan, president and CEO of the Council of Tourism Associations (COTA), said: “The border is the first experience travellers have of a country, and the more we can do to make this experience positive for them, the more likely we are as a region to encourage travel and see long-term benefits from major events the Pacific northwest will host through 2010 and beyond.”
Other major recommendations in the PNWER border charter include:
* ensure a secure, convenient and welcoming border crossing experience for 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, including an integrated and tested plan for handling peak flow traffic at border crossings and a pre-clearance program, designated special lanes and information for Olympics border crossers;
* reduce congestion and streamline flows of legitimate trade and travel, including increased staffing levels and traffic capacity, more use of technology for pre-clearance and processing prior to physical arrival at the border and improved signage directing traffic towards less congested border crossings and lanes, and improved procedures for frequent business travellers;
* increase outreach and expansion of frequent border crossing programs to improve security by focusing resources on higher-risk traffic through increased use of Nexus cards, designated flexible lanes, and improved public communication on document requirements in partnership with the tourism industry, border communities and regional organizations.
The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER), with its network of private and government officials, is a best practice in organized regional cross-border cooperation. PNWER has 17 different working groups and members who include premiers, governors, legislators, private sector leaders, industry associations, counties, and economic development commissions.
#12. MP SUKH DHALIWAL: ‘WE HELP WOMEN FIX THEIR PROBLEMS’
The deep challenges of women’s poverty, childcare and housing “South of the Fraser” were tackled at a roundtable meeting on women’s issues with the Diane Marleau, Chair of the National Liberal Women’s Caucus, hosted by Newton-North Delta MP Sukh Dhaliwal, the Opposition Critic for Competitiveness and the New Economy, and joined by special guests City of Surrey Councillor Judy Higginbotham and federal Liberal candidate Dana Miller.
“We heard from women who are fighting for funding for programs for our aging population. We heard from women who are struggling to stay in their own home. We heard about women who fallen through the cracks,” Dhaliwal said. “What defines us as a party is that we are committed to listening to women and to help them to fix their problems.”
Among the issues raised at the forum were:
* How some women - many of whom are trying to get out of prostitution, drug use and other difficult situations - aren’t eligible for Employment Insurance, yet are totally forgotten.
* The struggle of area mothers to find childcare space.
* The lack of shelters for seniors fleeing abuse.
* Changes to the Guaranteed Income Supplement that make it harder for vulnerable seniors to access funds.
* The struggle of many women to stay in their own home and of other vulnerable women to even find a place to stay.
Dhaliwal said: “The overwhelming response was positive and we welcomed the valuable input.”
He invited Marleau to Surrey to speak with local women and women’s organizations as a part of the Women’s Caucus consultation to determine national women’s policy priorities. Marleau will incorporate these recommendations into the development of the next phase of the Official Opposition’s women’s policy framework.
Liberal Leader Stephane Dion asked Marleau and Women’s Caucus to hold round tables across the country over the summer to get feedback from Canadian women about Liberal initiatives. That information will be compiled in a report for Dion.
Marleau said: “We want Canadian women to know that Liberals are listening to what they have to say about some of the key issues facing our country.”
Marleau has served as the Minister of Health, Public Works and Government Services and International Cooperation.
#13. RICHMOND CELEBRATES ITS MANY CULTURES AUGUST 9
By Balwant Sanghera
President, East Richmond Community Association
Come and experience the 23rd annual Multifest – a celebration of cultures on Sunday, August 9 at King George Park, 12800 Cambie Road, Richmond, next to Cambie Community Centre. The East Richmond Community Association is proud to host this wonderful event where the whole family can enjoy a world of performance, food and exhibits. Admission is free to the festival, which runs from 12 to 5 p.m.
A mosaic of multicultural entertainment runs throughout the day. A number of information, service and display booths will be another attractive feature of this celebration. The Kin’s Farm Market Kidz Zone has hands-on activities that will keep children entertained and the new Youth Zone will feature a 3-on-3-basketball tournament to the tunes of DJ Eve.
Also new this year is an area specifically for seniors with information and demonstrations on wellness, fitness and recreation. Guests will also have an opportunity to meet the Vancouver 2010 mascots or as part of our Salute to Emergency Services, join a team that will compete against the Richmond Fire Department in a Tug-O-War challenge.
One of East Richmond Community Association’s most popular events, Multifest is an opportunity for families and community members to get together to dance, eat, and celebrate the many cultures represented in Richmond. Multifest is aimed at bringing different cultures together, celebrate their diversity, and create a greater sense of tolerance and understanding.
On behalf of the East Richmond Community Association, I would like to invite the public to join us in celebrating this community’s unique character, cultural diversity and inter-cultural harmony.
For further information, feel free to contact Tatiana Micenko at 604-233-8372 (tmicenko@richmond.ca) or Paul Binning at 778-889-8255.
#14. 39TH ANNUAL ORISSA SOCIETY OF AMERICAS CONVENTION IN BRAMPTON
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Reunions of old friends, feasts of sumptuous foods, and arguments about everything under the sun quite as feisty as those at school or college in Orissa - only, it was all happening in Canada’s Flower City, Brampton.
More than 1000 Oriyas from North America, India and globally descended on the famous Rose Theatre to join in what has been rated as the biggest Oriya cultural show outside of Orissa making it feel like a mini-Orissa.
Hosted by CanOSA (Canada Odisha Society of Americas) a non-profit socio-cultural organization in Ontario since 1971, the 39th Annual OSA (Orissa Society of the Americas) Convention, a three-day (July 3-5) long cultural extravaganza, began here with registration and Mehfil Night. The inaugural ceremony began with the singing of national anthems of India, and Canada.
Welcoming and introducing the guests - Murlidhar Chandrakante Bhandare, Governor of Orissa, Kalyan Jena, Chairman, Indian Railway Board, and Chairman International Union of Railways, Paris, Akshya Parija, Chief General Manager, Business Banking National Bank of Oman, Satish Mehta, Consul General of India in Toronto – the convener, Dr. Gagan Panigrahi, said the annual OSA convention was an opportunity to display and share the pride and rich heritage of the Oriya culture and pass it on to the next generation in North America.
In his inaugural address, Governor Bhandare, praised the role of OSA in preserving and propagating Oriya culture in North America and the achievement of Oriyas in different professions. He encouraged the members of OSA to fly higher and higher and act as the ambassadors of Orissa to bring the ancient culture to North America and urged not to forget their nest - Mother Orissa. He pointed out that in spite of having natural resources, Orissa is a poor state and urged the non-resident Oriyas to give a helping hand in improving the quality of life of Orissans through education.
With India on an irreversible path of becoming a super power, Jena said that the Oriya community in India and abroad will help realize the dream of true modern India. He emphasized the role of Indian Railway in the world economy and the national integration of India. He pointed out the recent unprecedented growth of Indian Railway and how it is playing a role in shaping world economy.
Mehta praised the creativity and artistic ability of Oriya people who were responsible for building the finest temple in the world and lauded the passion of the expatriate community behind the OSA. He added: “The future is very bright for India.” He encouraged patrons to renew their connections with India.
In their dazzling opening performance, Sushree Mishra Kar and her dancers cast a spell on the audience as they captured all nuances of social and cultural life in Orissa.
Thereafter, around 20 kids and their group competed against each other for the best artistic talent for the coveted Subrina Biswal Award followed by a theme dance - “We love you Orissa!” - based on the convention theme “Orissa: Our Land and Our People.”
Odissi performances by world renowned Sujata Mohapatra and Manabhanjan depicting Rasa Lila of Krushna and Radha by Sushree Mishra Kar and her group, and Niharika Mohanty’s presentation of Abhinaya on Krishna’s tandava mesmerized the audiences.
The Promod Patnaik inter-chapter drama competition showcased some of the best performances. Before the closing, audiences were enthralled by the mythological musical drama Karnarjuna, based on great epic Mahabharat, presented by the Canada chapter.
Apart from the cultural show, seminars focused on Odisha Development and Education, Women’s Forum, Spirituality and Religion and Health, Wellness and Yoga Therapy. Youth activities included a quiz competition, dance, and magic shows. A souvenir was published to mark the occasion.
Awards were given to talented youths and adults in recognition of their contribution to academic excellence, community work, and cultural activities.
The Rose Theatre entrance and lobby were decked with watercolour paintings depicting scenes from Odisha. People too were decked in traditional garb and finery of Odisha.
Farewell hugs were exchanged and eyes grew moist after the light and music dimmed at Rose Theatre at the end of the convention.
When the last strains of the closing song Rangabati died, those expatriates who came from far and near for this annual event expressed sadness that they compared with Vijaya Dasami, the last day of the Durga Puja. Traveling annually to city after city in the US and three times to Toronto, the OSA has been growing with the community over the years.
All in all, it was, as one delegate said: “Except for Ratha Yatra, this surely is the biggest Oriya event anywhere in the world.”
#15. MOVIES: AWARD-WINNING AMAL OPENS ACROSS CANADA
Richie Mehta’s debut feature film, Amal will open across Canada on August 8. Poor Man’s Productions Ltd. and Seville Pictures said the film will hit theatres in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, and then roll out to additional cities and areas in the following weeks.
Amal, written by Richie and Shaun Mehta, is an emotionally evocative story about an auto-rickshaw driver in New Delhi (Amal) who is content with his small, but vital role in life. One day he drives an eccentric billionaire (G.K. Jayaram) who, disguised as a vagabond, is searching the streets for the last morsel of humanity, and someone he can leave all his money to, and Amal’s life may change forever.
Amal features renowned actors Naseeruddin Shah (“Monsoon Wedding”, “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen”), Roshan Seth (“Gandhi”, “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”) and Seema Biswas (“Water”, “Bandit Queen”), as well as up-and-coming international talent Koel Purie (as the love-interest Pooja), and Canadian actors Vik Sahay (as Vivek) and Rupinder Nagra (starring in the lead role of Amal).
Amal had its world premiere on September 13, 2007, at the Toronto International Film Festival. Since the film has gone onto garner awards at India Film Festival of Los Angeles (Best Narrative Feature Film), Santa Barbara International Film Festival (Best Independent Feature Film), AFI Dallas (Audience Award) and San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival (Best Feature).
In addition, Amal was the recipient of several Audience Awards (including Bahamas International Film Festival and the Whistler Film Festival), as well as “Best Feature Film Award” at the Victoria Film Festival and Cinéfest Sudbury International Film Festival. Amal was also chosen as one of Canada’s Top Ten films of 2007. Most recently, Amal was awarded the Grand Jury Prize at the Bollywood and Beyond festival in Stuttgart, Germany.
Amal is produced by David Miller and Steven N. Bray, and is a Poor Man's Productions Ltd. production. The film is executive produced by Peter Starr and Robin Cass (Triptych Media) in participation with Telefilm and Astral Media The Harold Greenberg Fund, in association with Austin Capital, Citytv, TMN The Movie Network, Movie Central, and is distributed by Seville Pictures.
#16. NDP: GOVERNMENT’S ROLE IN COURT BACKLOGS IGNORED BY OPPAL
Attorney General Wally Oppal refuses to acknowledge the Campbell government’s full role in the growing delays in traffic and criminal court cases, says the NDP in a press statement.
The NDP Says: “Despite government promises to fix the problem, British Columbians are waiting up to 10 months to have traffic cases heard and seven months to have criminal cases heard.
“The problem is a direct result of the Campbell government’s misguided cuts.
“It’s tough to go to court when there’s no court to go to In 2002, the B.C. Liberals closed 24 court houses, mostly in small, rural communities. These closures meant proceedings have had to be moved to centralized courts, adding to the backlog in those facilities.
“No argument. A court system needs lawyers to function properly and the Canadian constitution gives people with limited means the right to legal representation. But the Campbell government cut legal aid funding by 40 per cent, increasing the workload of legal aid lawyers. This has led to more unnecessary delays in the courts.
“Giving work to people who aren’t there. In 2007, Oppal took bail decisions out of the hands of judges and gave them to justices of the peace. Unfortunately, Oppal acknowledged that the Campbell government gave poorly planned buyouts and early retirement packages to justices of the peace.
“Trying to do justice on the cheap. One factor in the delays in traffic court is the shortage of sheriffs, but the Campbell government is underpaying sheriffs; in Alberta, sheriffs make 28 per cent more than their B.C. counterparts.
NDP Attorney General Critic Leonard Krog says: “The Attorney General claims to be trying to solve a problem with a backlog in the courts, but that’s impossible to do if you don’t acknowledge the cause of the problem. The Campbell government made reckless cuts to the court system in British Columbia. Now their chickens have come home to roost. Delays in court proceedings are not only inconvenient, they put at serious risk the right of British Columbians to fair and timely justice.”
#17. GET MOVING BC RENEWS CALL TO ACCELERATE PORT MANN TWINNING
Tuesday morning’s collapse of a construction crane on Highway 1 has lead Get Moving BC to renew its call for the Province to accelerate the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge.
Get Moving BC spokesperson Michael McBratney says the incident, which brought traffic to a grinding halt for the better part of a day, demonstrates the pressing need to move forward as quickly as possible with the Port Mann / Highway 1 project.
"Incidents like this one are a timely reminder of how easily the Port Mann / Highway 1 system can be brought to a complete standstill," McBratney says. "Until the Port Mann is twinned, and Highway 1 expanded, we're going to continue to be vulnerable to situations like this and the horrendous traffic chaos they create."
McBratney points to the fact that a twinned Port Mann Bridge would allow traffic to continue to flow during accidents and other shutdowns by providing a greater number of clear lanes for traffic to get through. At present, there are few options for traffic when the Port Mann Bridge is blocked other than the equally problematic, and often deadly, Pattullo Bridge.
"The Port Mann Bridge is 44 years old and we're paying a heavy price economically and environmentally because the bridge no longer meets the needs it has to serve," McBratney says. "(This) incident really hits that home - it really is time to move the project forward."
#18. CAMPAIGN RE-LAUNCHED TO ATTRACT NEW STUDENTS TO ELDER CARE
Provincial government ministries, private and public health organizations and educators from across BC are working to boost enrolment in post-secondary courses that train residential care aides and home support workers.
The ministries of Health Services and Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, Fraser Health, Vancouver Island Health, 20 public and private institutions along with the membership of the BC Care Providers Association have launched a $160,000 marketing and awareness campaign to attract new students to the continuing care sector.
"We've expanded training programs for home support and residential care aides so caring people who want to enter this field will be able to qualify for stable, meaningful jobs," said Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. "We've also introduced a loan forgiveness program for students that can offset their education costs by as much as $2,500."
"More health care workers trained to provide home support and residential care will help meet the needs of the province's growing seniors' population," said Health Services Minister George Abbott. "The BC CARES campaign supports our commitment to complete construction for 5,000 net new beds and units for seniors by the end of 2008."
Health organizations across Canada are facing similar critical shortages for residential care and home health workers. In BC, more than 1,500 qualified graduates are needed immediately to staff new and existing long term care and assisted living beds as well as home care clients.
"Government, health authorities and educators are doing the right thing," said Christine Nidd, Board President with the BC Care Providers Association, which is leading the project. "This campaign shows that the private and public health care sector can work together very well and respond quickly to address a serious need."
The need, in fact, shows no sign of diminishing even after the province completes construction of the 5,000 new beds. Nidd, who is also the Provincial Director of Revera Long Term Care, said the BC CARES campaign has proven to generate effective results, filling all public seats during last year's pilot with Fraser Health. "Seniors 85 and older are the fastest growing segment of BC's population. We are preparing for a 'silver tsunami,' which means our staffing needs will only increase year after year."
Colleen Hart, Fraser Health's Executive Director of Geriatric and Residential Support Services, said, "Finding good, qualified people to fill these positions to support this growing population is one of our biggest challenges."
Barbara Korabek, Vancouver Island Health's Executive Director of Home and Community Care, agrees. "We need to get the message out there that there has never been a better time to start your career in health care. Graduates of these programs study for about one year, sometimes less, will have their pick of jobs in a number of service environments and can advance relatively quickly to the nursing profession."
The BC CARES enrolment strategy launched this week features radio and newspaper advertising, brochure distribution, promotions at job fairs and access to a comprehensive website. Further information is available online at www.bccares.ca.
Training courses for residential care aides and community health workers are offered at both public and private colleges in BC. Graduates are paid between about $17 and $21 an hour.
Participating colleges in the Fraser Health region include:
* Douglas College
* Kwantlen University College
* Stenberg College
* Pacific Coast Community College
* Sprott Shaw Community College
* University College of the Fraser Valley
#19. SURREY HOSPITAL NURSES TO BENEFIT FROM TD SCHOLARSHIPS
Applications are now being accepted from Surrey Memorial Hospital’s 1,650 nurses for scholarships that have been made available courtesy of TD Bank Financial Group.
TD’s donation of $150,000 to Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation – totaling $30,000 a year for the next five years - will be used to provide training and professional development to the hospital’s nurses.
“Our nurses are passionate about their work and caring about their patients,” says Foundation President / CEO Jane Adams. “This donation will allow nurses to further their skills at a time when the hospital is growing in size and importance.”
“A major concern for our healthcare providers is finding both the time and resources to continue to further their education. As a result, we feel the best way for TD to make an impact is to provide funding for scholarships for our nurses,” said Jane Russell, Senior Vice President, TD Canada Trust Business Banking. “We’re proud to play a role in helping Surrey Memorial Hospital continue to be a leader in providing outstanding service and strengthening the health of the community.”
Established in 1992, Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation has raised more than $45 million to purchase medical equipment, fund innovative programs, and support training and research. The Foundation is currently involved in its largest fundraising initiative ever, a campaign to raise $15 million to triple the size of the hospital’s Emergency Department.
The B.C. government has committed to funding the essentials of a replacement to Surrey Memorial Hospital’s current E.R. The Foundation’s $15-million campaign will ensure the new Emergency Centre is state-of-the-art.
#20. NURSE PRACTITIONERS EXPAND HEALTH-CARE DELIVERY OPTIONS
For the first time in the history of health-care in B.C., the province has 100 nurse practitioners, Health Services Minister George Abbott announced this week.
He said: “Nurse practitioners are fulfilling a number of important roles in our health-care system. From meeting the growing need for primary health care in this province, including the management of chronic diseases, to sharing their nursing expertise in remote and isolated communities and taking on innovative new roles in the emergency departments and community health facilities of our urban centres.”
The first group of nurse practitioners graduated in May, 2005, and the province now has 100 practising nurse practitioners with the capacity to graduate up to 45 more each year as of September, 2007.
“This government recognized the contribution nurse practitioners would make to helping British Columbians lead healthy lives,” said Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. “That’s why we created three master’s programs in this field – in the North, on Vancouver Island and on the Lower Mainland – as part of almost doubling the number of spaces for student nurses in B.C.”
Nurse practitioner education programs are offered at three British Columbia universities: the University of British Columbia, the University of Victoria and the University of Northern B.C.
“Nurse practitioners are located in every region of the province, from urban areas like the Downtown Eastside to rural areas of northern B.C.,” said Lorine Scott, British Columbia Nurse Practitioner Association president. “Nurse practitioners are an essential part of our primary health system and we want to support them in this role.”
Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with the additional education and skills to provide a broad range of health-care services. They perform a full range of nursing duties as well as some functions similar to physicians, such as diagnosing and managing common acute and chronic illnesses, prescribing medications, ordering diagnostic tests and referring to specialists.
“Their unique knowledge and clinical expertise enables nurse practitioners to give patients a high level of care,” said Dr. Sally Thorne, University of B.C. nursing school director. “As independent practitioners who overlap with physicians and nurses as part of a collaborative team, nurse practitioners provide comprehensive health care and positively affect patient outcomes.”
Experienced nurses can step into this innovative role in British Columbia’s health-care system in two ways: by obtaining a master of science in nursing degree from an approved nurse practitioner program or by demonstrating an equivalent level of education and accumulated experience by participating in a prior learning assessment and recognition process.
Nurse practitioners are a part of the province’s overall nursing strategy, which has created new educational spaces, continuing education for nurses presently in the workforce, and programs to retain nurses currently in the health system and to attract nurses from across Canada and around the world.
As of April, British Columbia had 41,269 licensed practising nurses – up by more than 10 per cent from 2001. That total includes 32,225 registered nurses, 6,741 licensed practical nurses and 2,202 registered psychiatric nurses and 100 nurse practitioners.
In May, the Province announced a further investment of $15 million to educate, recruit and retain the best qualified nurses, bringing B.C.’s total nursing strategy investment since 2001 to $189 million.
#21. NDP: RESTORE FUNDING CUTS TO POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION
New Democrats are demanding the Liberals return the $50 million in funding they took from post-secondary programs this spring after the province confirmed a $3 billion surplus.
“Successful economies are investing more in advanced education and students, not less, but Gordon Campbell’s Liberals instead made last-minute, unnecessary and backward cuts in the spring budget. The B.C. Liberals have turned their backs on the skills training needs of our province and once again demonstrated that they don’t care about students and their families,” said NDP Advanced Education Critic Rob Fleming.
In mid-March, with only two weeks notice, B.C.’s 25 universities and colleges were told their new fiscal year core budgets would be cut by 2.6 per cent – a $50 million total hit to existing programs. Administrators have grappled with the sudden loss of funding by making broad cuts to programs, faculty and staff layoffs and eliminating thousands of student spaces.
This week’s surplus underscored the absence of any fiscal rationale for the cuts. “The cuts broke another Campbell promise – to provide stable, secure funding to our universities and colleges. Why did the B.C. Liberals choose to cause pain and chaos at our colleges and universities when a healthy surplus existed – it shows an astounding lack of logic,” said Fleming.
All 25 B.C. colleges and universities are impacted by the cuts including the five newly designated ‘regional universities’. Examples of recent cuts in funding include:
* College of New Caledonia ($1.1 million)
* Douglas College ($2.3 million)
* Kwantlen College ($400,000)
* North Island College ($1 million)
* Selkirk College ($688,000)
* University College of the Fraser Valley ($1.8 million)
* University of Northern B.C. ($1 million)
* UBC Okanagan ($4.5 million)
* Vancouver Island University/Malaspina ($3.6 million)
“This is another display of Gordon Campbell’s shocking arrogance and shows his complete disconnect from ordinary British Columbians,” said Fleming.
#22. VANCOUVER: CUPE SAYS PARK BOARD FORESTALLS TOP COURT RULING
The Vancouver Park Board this week approved minutes from the July 7 meeting that has made CUPE 15's Supreme Court challenge unnecessary because it acknowledges that the budget passed on April 28 was done incorrectly.
"This is an election year so we're not surprised NPA chairperson Korina Houghton won't publicly admit the Board's error," said Paul Faoro, CUPE 15 President. "But it's pretty obvious the Board recognized that there was a major problem with how the operating budget was passed.
"The fact of the matter is that an operating budget of sixty million - that contained a $346,000 cut in funding for park and facility maintenance programs and seasonal staffing - was approved in a questionable manner."
CUPE 15 hired the legal firm of McGrady & Company to bring the matter before the BC Supreme Court.
But during an in-camera portion of the July 7 regular Park Board meeting, the Board passed the motion resolving "the Board treat the reconsideration and passing of the budget motion on April 28, 2008 as being null and void, and reconsider the decision regarding the 2008 Operating Budget made on February 25, 2008." The motion was put forward by Commissioner Allan De Genova and was carried with a dissenting vote by Commissioner Loretta Woodcock.
"We're pleased that the Board has seen the error of their ways," said Faoro. "This is a victory for due process and recognition of the right of the public for open and accountable governance and quality services."
CUPE 15 represents 5,500 workers, including 1,500 front line recreation and community centre support staff at Vancouver Park Board.
#23. PROPERTY TAX RELIEF TO HELP ADDRESS HOUSING CHALLENGES
Kevin Krueger, Small Business and Revenue Minister and Minister responsible for BC Assessment, this week announced property tax relief for non-profit societies to help address housing challenges for the most vulnerable British Columbians.
“This government is committed to building the best system of supports for British Columbians,” said Krueger. “The creation of a new supportive housing assessment class is one more way we are demonstrating that commitment.”
The relief applies to 67 supportive housing properties located throughout the province and is based on recent amendments to provincial legislation and regulations.
The legislative amendment under the Assessment Act created a new supportive housing assessment class to provide property tax relief by reducing property assessment values to a nominal value. The Ministry of Small Business and Revenue worked in consultation with the Ministry of Housing and Social Development, BC Housing and BC Assessment to identify properties eligible for the initial designations for the 2009 Assessment Roll. In subsequent years, the Ministry of Housing and Social Development will be responsible for identifying eligible supportive housing properties for designation.
In order to be considered for designation under the proposed new assessment class, properties must be provincially funded to provide supportive housing, including on-site support services for persons who were previously homeless, at risk of homelessness, have mental or physical disabilities, or have or are recovering from drug or alcohol addictions. The amendments will take effect for the 2009 assessment year.
For more information regarding the requirements to be designated as a supportive housing property, go to www.housing.gov.bc.ca/housing/supportivehousing.htm or contact the Office of Housing and Construction Standards at 250 356-6633.
For more information regarding the implementation of the classification and assessment of Class 3 - Supportive Housing properties, please contact the Property Assessment branch of the Ministry of Small Business and Revenue at 250 356-7535. To call toll-free, please use Enquiry BC at 1-800-663-7867.
#24. COMMISSIONER TO PUBLICLY GRADE MINISTRIES' FOI COMPLIANCE
Information and Privacy Commissioner David Loukidelis announced this week that, starting with a pilot project later this year, he will begin issuing regular public report cards assessing the performance of government ministries in complying with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act ("FIPPA").
In his annual report, the commissioner raised concerns about the ongoing struggles of many government ministries to respond to access requests in a timely fashion, as FIPPA requires. "I have decided that other steps are necessary to bring pressure to bear," the commissioner said. "Beginning with a pilot later this year, we will start a program of report cards grading each ministry on their compliance with the law. The main focus is timeliness - access delayed is access denied and timely access is critically important for the public's right to know what government is doing."
Loukidelis also reported that privacy breaches are on the rise in British Columbia. "We investigated 92 privacy breaches last year," he said, adding, "Businesses and governments need to do a better job of protecting people's personal information. They should review their practices and constantly update them as risks change."
Another important report theme is the apparent lack of awareness of many public bodies and organizations of their information security weaknesses. "This is bad for privacy," the commissioner said. "Organizations and public bodies need to inventory their personal information holdings and regularly assess and where necessary upgrade their security arrangements. If personal information isn't properlyprotected, it'll go walkabout and that's not good."
Loukidelis also called on the provincial government to ensure thatpatient privacy is fully protected in the electronic health record system it's now building. The system will integrate patient health records and allow immediate access to those records by a wide range of authorized users. "The government has passed legislationrequiring patients to be given a meaningful degree of control over who can access their medical information" the commissioner said. "Now the government has to follow through on this promise and build a system that offers patients meaningful control over who gets to see their health information and why."
#25. NEW SERVICES FOR ADULTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
The Ministry of Housing and Social Development and Community Living BC have awarded contracts worth $1.1 million annually for three years to eight community-based service providers to deliver customized employment services to developmentally disabled British Columbians, announced Rich Coleman, Minister of Housing and Social Development, announced this week.
The ministry and CLBC are each providing $550,000 annually for a three-year Customized Employment Demonstration Project that will run from July 1 to June 30, 2011 in the Vancouver area, Fraser Valley and on Vancouver Island.
“We know that many adults with developmental disabilities have the motivation, education and abilities to be valuable members of our workforce, yet they still face multiple challenges when pursuing employment,” said Coleman. “We are pleased to be working collaboratively with CLBC and community partners on a project that will expand employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities.”
Customized employment is an approach designed to help developmentally disabled people find and keep employment uniquely tailored to their individual needs.
The successful service providers will work closely with individuals to fully understand their needs, strengths and interests and identify employment goals and then use this information to negotiate with an employer the ideal conditions of employment so that the needs of both the individual and employer are met.
Over 60 per cent of individuals served will be young adults aged 15 years to 30 years who will receive assistance transitioning from an education environment to a work environment.
The project will be monitored and best practices documented and shared with other service providers to serve as a blueprint for future services and improve overall employment services.
These services are part of government’s $20-million-a-year Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities (EPPD).
#26. CRTC: COMMERCIAL PRIVATE RADIO REVENUES ON THE RISE
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission this week released statistical and financial summaries for 2007 that indicate continued economic growth for Canada's commercial private radio stations.
Total revenues for Canada's AM and FM radio stations increased by 6.2% going from $1.4 billion in 2006 to $1.5 billion in 2007. When factoring in $1.159 billion in expenses, Canada's radio stations enjoyed profits of $300.2 million, an increase of 5.5% or $15.7 million before interest and taxes (PBIT).
The profit margin of 19. 99% is slightly below last year's results of 20.11%, which was the third highest profit margin according to Statistics Canada in the last 40 years after the 21.14% and 20.5% margins posted in 2005 and 1971 respectively.
These profits are directly linked to an increase in advertising revenue. From 2006 to 2007, local advertising revenues grew by 4.8% from $1.037 billion to $1.087 billion. In turn, revenue from national time sales increased by 8.3% from $351.3 million in 2006 to $380.6 million in 2007.
FM radio stations clearly dominate the Canadian marketplace with revenues totalling slightly over $1.1 billion as compared to $329.4 million for AM stations. Over the past five years, revenues have consistently risen for English FM stations. In 2003, their revenues stood at $701.5 million. By 2007, they had increased to $947.5 million. In comparison, French FM stations saw their revenues increase from $172.9 to $209 million while ethnic stations almost doubled their revenues from $9.8 to $16.1 million over the same period.
Revenues for English AM stations have also experienced a steady increase going from $259.8 in 2003 to $291.7 million in 2007. Ethnic stations have enjoyed slight increases during this period with their revenues now standing at $21.8 million.
However, revenues for French AM stations were down by $2.3 million in 2007 going from $18.2 to $15.9 million. This reflects an ongoing pattern of declining revenues that has plagued the French radio market over the past five years where in 2003 revenues were at $26.1 million.
Overall, radio broadcasting continues to be a major employer in Canada. With the opening of 23 new radio stations in 2007, Canada now has 619 stations located across the country. These radio stations employ over 10,000 employees and represent total salaries of $606,952,639.
#27. NDP: NEW RESTRICTIONS WILL HARM MOST VULNERABLE CITIZENS
The Liberal government’s decision to impose new restrictions on supports for adults with developmental disabilities is a mean-spirited attack on some of B.C.’s most vulnerable citizens, say the New Democrats.
“This is a shocking move from a government that promised to provide more access to support,” said Nicholas Simons, NDP critic for children and family development. “Adults with developmental disabilities and their families need more services, not more hardship.”
On July 18 Campbell’s cabinet quietly signed an order in council 18 that toughens eligibility requirements for community living supports. Individuals will now be required to have an IQ of less than 70 and meet standard criteria for developmental disability in order to qualify.
“These harsh new restrictions come just a few weeks after the controversial appointment of Rich Coleman as the Minister responsible for community living,” said Simons. “Gordon Campbell is clearly sending a message to the community that he plans to get tough on some of B.C.’s most vulnerable citizens.
“This is the exact opposite of the Campbell government’s promise to improve services for B.C. families. Services should be based on need, not arbitrary requirements imposed by Campbell.”
#28. VANCOUVER COUNCIL APPROVES ‘HOST A CITY HAPPENING’ GRANTS
Vancouver City Council has approved a total of $47,075 in Host a City Happening Community Grants for 2008.
City Happenings are community-led activities, events and legacy projects taking place throughout Vancouver neighbourhoods leading up to and during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in February and March 2010. The grants are the first to be awarded as part of the new Host a City Happening Community Grants Program, which will provide up to $300,000 in community grants between 2008 and 2010.
Community grants were awarded to:
* BC Sports Hall of Fame Museum
* Cambie Village Business Improvement Association
* False Creek Community Centre Association
* Kitsilano Neighbourhood House
* Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School
* Still Moon Arts Society
* Victoria Drive Business Improvement Association
The Host a City Happening Program encourages Vancouver residents and non-profit organizations to partner with the city of Vancouver to create special City Happenings – events and legacy projects that reflect the Olympic and Paralympic values of friendship, solidarity, peace, fair play, optimism, inspiration and empowerment.
There will be three more granting cycles for the program – in fall 2008 and in the spring and fall of 2009 respectively. For more information on the Host a City Happening Community Grants program and how to apply, visit: vancouver.ca/olympics.
Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School: Olympic Spirit Day - May 21, 2009
This event will bring together 1,000 elementary school students from the local elementary schools to participate in a “Get Fit / Wellness Day” with the intent of encouraging positive attitudes towards physical education and healthy life styles. Another 1,000 secondary students at the high school will be involved in the planning, development and participation in the event.
The day includes an Olympic themed opening ceremony, physical activities, wholesome lunch and an Olympic fair. In preparation of the event, the high school students will research and prepare projects on each of the sports included in the Winter Games and will present information at the Olympic Fair.
#29. REFLECTING ON OUR YEARS AS YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
By Ruby Dhalla
MP for Brampton-Springdale
(PHOTO)
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my constituents and the Brampton community for the support and faith you have given me as your representative in Ottawa.
June 28 marked my 4 year anniversary as the Member of Parliament for Brampton-Springdale. Over these years, I have had the privilege of working with the constituents of Brampton-Springdale and Canadians on issues that are important to them and their families. I have had the honor of reaching out, and connecting with some of the most vulnerable in our society and those that are struggling to be heard. Instilling hope in
people has given me strength and inspiration to empower and work with many of you in building the type of community and nation we want for the future. A Canada, in which people have the resources, skills and tools they need to succeed and realize their dreams. A Canada, in which equality, opportunity, and acceptance continue to be our hallmarks.
From advocating for better health care services for Bramptonians to working with those in the manufacturing sector who have lost their jobs, I have seen first hand how acting upon the voices of the people, can make a difference.
This year marked the launch of the Brampton-Springdale Youth Advisory Council. The Youth Advisory Council consists of 18 dynamic youth from all of the schools in the constituency who work together to address issues impacting youth such as gangs, bullying and violence. The council is for youth and by youth, and provides students the opportunity to design and develop solutions for challenges they face. In the coming months the Youth Advisory Council will engage and involve more youth, community leaders and stakeholders. Recently I had the chance to speak to a number of youth at graduation ceremonies across Brampton. Speaking at these graduations allowed me to see the talent, energy and enthusiasm of our youth. The ideas, dreams, and passion of young people, which have the power to change the world. I look forward to working with youth to build a vibrant dynamic in which youth believe in themselves and recognize the value of giving back to their community.
Throughout my four years I have heard from constituents regarding a number of important issues. In fact, as a female MP many women have come forward with their personal stories of abuse and violence. I have heard first hand the voices of these women who suffer in silence and of the growing impact of violence against women. I believe that it is the responsibility of the entire community to speak out against these injustices and tragedies. I have been working with many of our community members to establish an organization for women that will provide an opportunity for women to connect with each other and increase awareness of the resources and support that exists for women and families in need.
Many people in the community have also come forward with their concern regarding the issue of fraud marriages. I have worked with many of those in the community impacted and raised this issue in both parliament in Canada and during my visit to Punjab in India. I strongly believe that measures and protocols are needed by both the Canadian and Indian Governments to put a stop to fraud marriages.
This parliamentary year was of special importance as it saw the successful passing of my historic private members motion asking the Government to apologize to the Indo-Canadian Community for the Komagata Maru Incident. This incident was an injustice that served as a black mark in our nation's history. This apology will allow our children to learn of the sacrifices, struggles, and challenges faced by immigrants and send the message that we will never go back to the divisive politics of the past, but rather, will work together to ensure every Canadian has the faith, belief and confidence to build a nation we can all be proud of.
As the Member of Parliament of the riding with the largest South Asian demographic in the country, I have also worked with many constituents to ensure our country's immigration legislation embodies fairness and quality. Previously immigrants applying to Canada with the surname of Singh and Kaur were forced to add another last name, however after persistently speaking out against this discrimination the policy was changed so that no individual wanting to come to Canada with the last name Singh or Kaur will have to change their name. I have also been vocal in my opposition to Bill C-50, which are the Conservative government's proposed amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These amendments may threaten the more than 900,000 prospective immigrants currently on the waiting list and allow the Minister the ability to pick and chose who will enter Canada.
We are a nation that has been built on the hard work, vision and passion of its immigrants. With 57% of the population of Brampton now hailing from ethnic communities, I have also been a strong proponent of ensuring the disparity in income between immigrants and Canadian born individuals is eliminated as one of my first initiatives in Parliament was championing the issue of Foreign Credential Recognition.
I have also had the privilege of working with our seniors over the last 4 years to champion issues important to them. From visiting and speaking with seniors in parks, to old age homes to meeting with the seniors in my office I have had the honour of working closely with out immigrant senior community. Just last month I invited seniors to come to Ottawa to speak on Bill C-362 which will amend the Old Age Security Act to reduce the residency requirement for old age pensions from 10 years to 3 years for those coming from countries such as India and other parts of Asia.
Having worked on global issues of importance to the riding and constituents has also given me a sense of pride of how fortunate we are as Canadians to live in a nation in which equality and opportunity are valued. Traveling to Punjab earlier this year provided a great opportunity to raise issues that affect our NRI community in Brampton and Canada. I am currently negotiating and requesting the Punjab Government to designate a state holiday to celebrate the achievements of women. I hope this will be made into a reality in the near future.
Another issue of grave importance which I have been working to raise awareness is the global fight to stop Tuberculosis. Last fall I had the opportunity to travel to Capetown, South Africa, in which I witnessed first hand the importance of helping those who live in poverty and are affected by infectious diseases. Recently I launched a petition campaign asking the Government of Canada to increase their commitment to the Global Fund and overseas development aid to address this issue.
By far, one of the greatest highlights of my career this year was my recent honour at the Rotary Club of Brampton’s Presidential Awards Gala. The Rotary Club of Brampton is an organization which has been a symbol of pride for Brampton’s diverse and rich community dynamic. I feel extremely privileged to have received the Rotary Club’s Humanitarian Award for my community service in Brampton. This is a memory I will always cherish
I hope my journey thus far has given people hope and inspired the youth of our community, women and families to believe in themselves and go after their dreams. By working together and staying united we have an opportunity to continue to achieve and succeed.
Please know that your support is greatly appreciated and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions are always welcomed and valued. In an effort to further reach out, connect and keep in touch with constituents and supporters, I have a monthly newsletter that is sent out via email. If you currently do not receive it please send me your email address at dhallr@parl.gc.ca. In addition, my website, www.rubydhalla.ca has the most current and up to date information. With the help of volunteers I am also pleased to announce the launch of RubyTV, which is available through Youtube and Facebook.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if i can ever be of help or if you would like to volunteer. I am fortunate to have a strong and dynamic team. Thank you to my riding association, my supporters, family and the constituents of Brampton Springdale.
I look forward to working with you as we build a stronger, safer and vibrant Brampton community and a nation in which every Canadian has a voice. Please accept my heartfelt thanks for four wonderful years as your Member of Parliament.
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