Tag Archives: Brantford

Sci-Tech

The Most Common Keyboard Joke In Existence

1 Comment

As we get older we get wiser. It’s just part of the deal. We have all heard the expression that knowledge is power, but power can also be corrupting. Sometimes, it’s good to get a reminder that as smart or as knowledgeable as we think we might be there is always something new to learn.

I had one of those moments recently when I looked closely at a computer called the “Super Brain” that has been sitting out at a computer museum. I had never really spent much time with this machine but when I did I found out that it had a “Here Is” key. It’s enough to make you do a double-take. At first I thought it was a joke.

The most common keyboard joke in existence is the one about the “Any” key. Back in the days when computers ran text only operating environments (like DOS) it was common practice to put a message such as “Press Any Key To Continue” while waiting for the user to finish reading. The joke is that some people would literally spend time looking on their keyboard for a key marked “Any” rather than just literally pressing any key on the keyboard.

I had to do research on this key and discover what it is used for. It turns out that it is used for radio teletype identification. The key transmits a code 22 characters long that identifies to another teletype machine just which machine is sending a message. In other words, this old computer has a key that means only something in the context of a technology that is even older than itself.

Speaking of bizarre keyboards- what do you think of the layout on this vintage example of Orange Computers Inc keyboard? Makes me sort of hungry for starburst candy. A teletype (or more accurately a teleprinter) in case you don’t know or don’t remember is an electromechanical typewriter that can be used to send messages from point to point. They were used at the beginning of the twentieth century for many purposes ranging from spreading news to stock information and more. Variants were (and still are) used as telecommunications for the deaf and the aviation industry still have them around in small numbers.

The joy for me was that the day I discovered the “Here Is” key was a great reminder of how wonderful it is to learn something new. It’s almost self proclaiming (if only it were a “Here It Is!” key) and now, most likely, you too have learned something new today. For the Silo, Syd Bolton. 

Vintage

An Evolution Of Canadian Shopping Consumers Distributing Style

1 Comment

As a technology writer for the Silo, I am always focusing and thinking about the evolution of technology. I write about how computers and video games have changed over the years, but of course, many other things change around us and the one I have been thinking about a lot lately is shopping. ( Consumers Distributing may be back,  the relaunch namesake follows us on Twitter  )

CD had some serious PPMP’s (Portable Personal Music Players)- notice how the colour and graphic schemes are totally late 80’s/early 90’s?

When I was a kid, I remember getting the Consumers Distributing catalog and taking it into my room to read thoroughly. Of course, I tended to go directly to the toys section and more specifically I looked at the video games and computers. I dreamed about the day I would own some of these items, and I patiently saved my pennies from my job as a paper route carrier. Life can be tough when you are 12.

Started in 1957, Consumers Distributing tried to save costs for consumers by creating a warehouse like environment that allowed them to operate in smaller locations.

Customers would typically shop through a catalog (which they could take home or use in-store) and fill out a request form. This form was taken to the counter where a customer service representative would go fetch your item(s) and ring up the sale.

At its peak the chain would grow to 243 outlets in Canada and 217 in the United States. By 1996, however, the customers were fading as frustration grew with items being out of stock (or, more accurately, the customer perception was that items were always out of stock). In 2006, the company appeared to emerge from bankruptcy protection but little has been done to revive the stores to the way they once were.

Nothing says vintage or captures the ‘aura’ of shopping in a Consumers Distributing store quite like a polaroid.

Even though the end of the chain could be considered a failure, the evolution of the concept continues to this day. Stores like Home Depot and Costco operate in a warehouse-like environment, there are just no catalogs.

Canadian retail giant Hudson’s Bay Company also thought it was a pretty good idea since they purchased and ran a competitive chain of stores called “Shop-Rite” that were open from 1972 to 1982.

.At its peak, Shop-Rite had 65 stores in Ontario before conceding defeat to Consumers. It wasn’t the competition that was really the problem, it was the concept.

With the recent closing of the retail operations of Blockbuster and Rogers Video, we are seeing another step in the evolutionary process. Decades from now, people will probably think it was quite strange to obtain our movies from a retail store because everything will be digitally beamed into our homes and the physical disks and tapes we use now will be completely gone.

My friend Dave Thielking is a lot like me and he remembers the days when we were kids flipping through those catalogs.

So when he obtained some old catalogs I knew we could work together to put them online and share with our other friends who remember the old days of shopping and the great toys and items we wanted to save our pennies for. The result is a new website called the Consumers Distributing Archive and you can find it at http://www.cdarchive.ca.

We are never going to be able to stop evolution – of any kind – but it doesn’t mean we have to like it, or that we can’t go back to the way things were even just for an afternoon or two. For the Silo, Syd Bolton.

Culture

River Water Levels Are Favorite Discussion Among Ontario Paddlers

Leave a comment

SUP- Stand up paddling is a popular sport along the Grand River system. image: grandriverrafting.ca

Is the water level in the river going to be okay for canoeing or kayaking on any given weekend?

This is a common question that people call the GRCA to ask. It is also an important question. Usually what  they mean is ” will there  be enough water?”, but occasionally, there is actually way too much water for most people to canoe or paddle safely.

Fly fishermen too need to check river levels so they are safe and don’t get swept off their feet by a strong current.

An angler will likely move to a different area rather than take a chance. As an organization, the GRCA does not make recommendations as to appropriate water flows for recreational activities along the Grand River and its tributaries because there are many variables to consider. Some people have the expertise and training to enjoy high flows that could be fatal to inexperienced and ill equipped paddlers.

Very low flows make for slow going as there may not be enough water for the canoe to float and it may need to be pulled to deeper water at certain times. A skilled paddler will be able to read the water to find the deepest water and will have fewer problems. Some people have a bad day if they have to step out of their boat even once, while others are more tolerant of low flows. That is why there is no definitive answer to this question.

Appropriate water levels are a favorite discussion among paddlers. Those who paddle regularly have their own personal chart, whether it is in their head or on a spreadsheet.

Checking flow information

Many avid river recreation enthusiasts in Southern Ontario bookmark the River Data section of the GRCA’s website and check it when trip planning. This is one of the most visited sections on the GRCA’s website and provides hourly updates on river flows from 39 gauges on the Grand and eight tributaries. Some gauge information is also posted on an Environment Canada website that includes rivers in other parts of Canada, but the GRCA site has data for more gauges from this
watershed.

The main chart here is called the Flow Summary.

Recreational users should pay attention to the column headed “flow.” This one is measured in cubic metres per second or cms. If the rate is 10 cms, that means that 10,000 litres of water is moving past the flow gauge each second at this part of the river. The cms gets bigger as the river moves towards Lake Erie. There are huge changes in river flow due to seasons, weather, ice jams and dam operation.

Compare this to the “summer lowflow” which is the average flow during the dry summer months and you will see in relative terms how much water is flowing down the river. Following this Flow Summary is a list of sections of the rivers and tributaries with graphs. For example, one of the most popular sections of the river for a day trip, Cambridge to Paris, a paddler would check the Galt gauge on the “Middle Grand River“section. The graph will tell you if the level is going up, down, or holding steady. Occasionally a flow gauge does not operate and the information can be inaccurate, so the information is provisional. There is also a River Flow Information line that is updated regularly and can be reached at 519-621-2763, ext. 2511.

Photo by Judi Thompson

Outfitter information

There are several local outfitters in the area and they have cut off levels, when they stop canoe rentals. Canoeing the Grand in Kitchener has a safety section on their website with a five step rating chart for paddling. This scale  goes from “Excellent” to “No Go” with five levels, depending on the paddler’s age, skill, expertise and river conditions.

Grand River flow rates chart

When river flows skyrocket

As the graph above shows, the Grand River may not give much warning of a sudden increase in river flows, which is why the GRCA must sometimes issue high water safety warnings to the public. This is the flow information from the week of May 2 to 9 from a few years ago. Note that it shows heavy rain on Thursday night May 3 in the northern part of the watershed meant flows ballooned from 8 cms to 120 cms within a couple of hours, as the data from Marsville shows. The GRCA issued a warning after the storm. The rainwater gushed down the river and by the afternoon of Friday May 4, flows were dropping at Marsville but skyrocketing at West Montrose. By Saturday May 5, the river flows in Brantford were extreme and then they peaked at York on the southern Grand on Sunday.
A final important note, Dams can make the impact of a rainstorm less severe but they don’t eliminate flooding or high flows.

For the Silo ,Janet Baine, GRCA Communications Specialist

Sci-Tech

Historic de Havilland Vampire Jet Fighter Featured At Charity Airshow

Leave a comment

The Brant Community Charity Airshow is a little gem for aviation buffs and each year, on the Wednesday before the Labor Day Weekend,  fans have a chance to see and hear something unexpected either in the sky or up close on the ground. This time around I decided to walk to the eastern limit of the ground space- I hadn’t expected to find one of my personal favorites – the de Havilland Vampire Jet Fighter.

deHavilland Vampire Jet
Waterloo Warbirds Team Coordinator Ramona Ostrander and the de Havilland Vampire.

Ramona Ostrander explained what makes this World War 2 era jet  (the Vampire first flew in 1944) so special.

image- Ian Dunster use- Creative Commons license

For the Silo, Jarrod Barker.

Politics

Ontario Takes Historic Action To Raise Minimum Wage To $15 Hour By 2019

12 Comments

Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs- $15 Minimum Wage and Equal Pay for Part-Time and Full-Time Workers Part of Plan to Help People Get Ahead in a Changing Economy

May 30, 2017 10:20 A.M.

Ontario is taking historic action to create more opportunity and security for workers with a plan for Fair Workplaces and Better Jobs. This includes hiking the minimum wage, ensuring part-time workers are paid the same hourly wage as full-time workers, introducing paid sick days for every worker and stepping up enforcement of employment laws.

Over the past three years, Ontario’s economy has outperformed all G7 countries in terms of real GDP growth. While exports and business investments are increasing and the unemployment rate is at a 16-year low, the nature of work has changed. Many workers are struggling to support their families on part-time, contract or minimum-wage work. Government has a responsibility to address precarious employment and ensure Ontario workers are protected by updating the province’s labour and employment laws.

To help safeguard employees and create fairer and better workplaces, Premier Kathleen Wynne announced today that the government is moving forward with a landmark package of measures, including:

-Raising Ontario’s general minimum wage to $14 per hour on January 1, 2018, and then to $15 on January 1, 2019, followed by annual increases at the rate of inflation.
-Mandating equal pay for part-time, temporary, casual and seasonal employees doing the same job as full-time employees; and equal pay for temporary help agency employees doing the same job as permanent employees at the agencies’ client companies.
-Expanding personal emergency leave to include an across-the-board minimum of at least two paid days per year for all workers.
-Bringing Ontario’s vacation time into line with the national average by ensuring at least three weeks’ vacation after five years with a company.
-Making employee scheduling fairer, including requiring employees to be paid for three hours of work if their shift is cancelled within 48 hours of its scheduled start time.

The government will also propose measures to expand family leaves and make certain that employees are not mis-classified as independent contractors, ensuring they get the benefits they deserve. To enforce these changes, the province will hire up to 175 more employment standards officers and launch a program to educate both employees and small and medium-sized businesses about their rights and obligations under the Employment Standards Act.
QUOTES

” The economy has changed. Work has changed. It’s time our laws and protections for workers changed too. Too many families are struggling to get by on part-time or contract work and unstable employment. And no one working full time in Ontario should live in poverty. With these changes, every worker in Ontario will be treated fairly, paid a living wage and have the opportunities they deserve.”
– Kathleen Wynne
Premier of Ontario

” These changes will ensure every hard-working Ontarian has the chance to reach their full potential and share in Ontario’s prosperity. Fairness and decency must be the defining values of our workplaces.”
– Kevin Flynn
Minister of Labour
QUICK FACTS

Today’s announcement responds to the final report of the Changing Workplaces Review, conducted by Special Advisors C. Michael Mitchell and John C. Murray, over the course of two years. It is the first-ever independent review of the Employment Standards Act, 2000 and Labour Relations Act, 1995.
The report estimates that more than 30 per cent of Ontario workers were in precarious work in 2014. This type of employment makes it hard to earn a decent income and interferes with opportunities to enjoy decent working conditions and/or puts workers at risk.

In 2016, the median hourly wage was $13.00 for part-time workers and $24.73 for full-time workers. Over the past 30 years, part-time work has grown to represent nearly 20 per cent of total employment.
Currently, half of the workers in Ontario earning less than $15 per hour are between the ages of 25 and 64, and the majority are women.
More than a quarter of Ontario workers would receive a pay hike through the proposed increase to the minimum wage.
Studies show that a higher minimum wage results in less employee turnover, which increases business productivity.
Ontario is proposing a broad consultation process to gain feedback from a wide variety of stakeholders on the draft legislation it intends to introduce. To facilitate this consultation, it is proposing to send the legislation to committee after First Reading.
LEARN MORE

The Changing Workplaces Review — Final Report

Disponible en Français

Équité en milieu de travail, meilleurs emplois

Salaire minimum de 15 $ l’heure et parité salariale pour travail à temps partiel et à temps plein afin d’aider les gens à réussir au sein de l’économie en évolution

30 mai 2017 10h20

L’Ontario adopte des mesures historiques afin de créer plus de possibilités et de sécurité pour les travailleuses et travailleurs grâce à un plan pour l’équité en milieu de travail et de meilleurs emplois. Il s’agit notamment de hausser le salaire minimum, de veiller à ce que les travailleurs à temps partiel touchent le même taux horaire que les travailleurs à temps plein, de prévoir des congés de maladie payés pour tous les travailleurs et de renforcer la mise en application des lois régissant le travail.

Au cours des trois dernières années, le rendement de l’économie de l’Ontario a surpassé celui de tous les pays du G7 sur le plan de la croissance réelle du PIB. Certes, les exportations et les investissements des entreprises sont à la hausse et le taux de chômage est à son plus bas en 16 ans, mais nous constatons aussi que la nature du travail a changé. De nombreux travailleurs éprouvent de la difficulté à subvenir aux besoins de leur famille avec un emploi à temps partiel, contractuel ou au salaire minimum. Le gouvernement a la responsabilité d’agir face à la précarité de l’emploi et de veiller à ce que les travailleurs de l’Ontario soient protégés en actualisant les lois provinciales qui régissent le travail et l’emploi.

Pour contribuer à protéger les employés et créer des milieux de travail plus équitables et plus conviviaux, la première ministre Kathleen Wynne a annoncé aujourd’hui que le gouvernement va de l’avant avec un train de mesures inédites, dont les suivantes :

hausser le salaire minimum général en Ontario à 14 $ l’heure le 1er janvier 2018, puis à 15 $ le 1er janvier 2019, ce qui sera suivi par des hausses annuelles correspondant au taux d’inflation;
rendre obligatoire la parité salariale des employés à temps partiel, temporaires, occasionnels et saisonniers qui font le même travail que les employés à temps plein, et une paie égale pour les employés des agences de placement temporaire qui font le même travail que le personnel permanent de leurs entreprises clientes;
élargir le droit à des congés d’urgence personnelle pour inclure un minimum général d’au moins deux jours rémunérés par an pour tous les travailleurs;
faire correspondre la durée des vacances annuelles en Ontario à la durée moyenne nationale en accordant au moins trois semaines de vacances après 5 ans d’emploi avec le même employeur;
rendre plus équitable la planification des horaires de travail, ce qui comprend exiger que les employés soient payés pendant trois heures si leur quart de travail est annulé dans les 48 heures précédant l’heure de début planifiée.

Le gouvernement proposera aussi des mesures pour rendre plus équitable la planification des horaires du personnel, augmenter les congés familiaux et prévenir la classification erronée d’employés en tant qu’entrepreneurs indépendants, de manière à ce qu’ils obtiennent les avantages sociaux qu’ils méritent. Pour appliquer ces changements, la province embauchera jusqu’à 175 agentes et agents des normes d’emplois et lancera un programme de sensibilisation des employés et des petites et moyennes entreprises concernant leurs droits et obligations aux termes de la Loi de 2000 sur les normes d’emploi.

CITATIONS

« L’économie et le marché du travail d’emploi ont évolué. Il est temps d’adapter aussi nos lois et les mécanismes de protection de notre main-d’oeuvre. Trop de familles ont du mal à joindre les deux bouts avec du travail à temps partiel, contractuel ou instable. Aucun travailleur à temps plein en Ontario ne devrait vivre dans la pauvreté. Grâce à ces changements, les travailleuses et travailleurs de l’Ontario seront traités avec équité, toucheront un revenu décent et auront les possibilités qu’ils méritent.»
– Kathleen Wynne
première ministre de l’Ontario

« Ces changements feront en sorte que les Ontariennes et Ontariens qui ont du coeur à l’ouvrage puissent avoir la chance de réaliser tout leur potentiel et de partager la prospérité de l’Ontario. L’équité et la cordialité doivent être des valeurs définitoires de nos lieux de travail.»
– Kevin Flynn
ministre du Travail

FAITS EN BREF

L’annonce d’aujourd’hui va dans le sens du rapport final de l’Examen portant sur l’évolution des milieux de travail que les conseillers spéciaux C. Michael Mitchell et John C. Murray ont mené pendant une période de deux ans. Il s’agit du tout premier examen indépendant de la Loi de 2000 sur les normes d’emploi et de la Loi de 1995 sur les relations de travail.
Le rapport évalue que plus de 30 % des travailleurs ontariens avaient un emploi précaire en 2014. Ce genre d’emploi fait qu’il est difficile d’obtenir un revenu suffisant et compromet les chances de profiter de conditions de travail décentes, en plus de faire subir des risques aux travailleurs.
En 2016, le salaire horaire moyen était de 13 $ pour les travailleurs à temps partiel et de 24,73 $ pour les travailleurs à temps plein. Au cours des 30 dernières années, le travail à temps partiel a augmenté de sorte qu’il représente près de 20 % de tous les emplois.
À l’heure actuelle, la moitié des travailleurs en Ontario qui gagnent moins de 15 $ l’heure ont de 25 à 64 ans et la majorité de ces effectifs sont des femmes.
Plus du quart des travailleurs de l’Ontario recevraient une hausse salariale grâce à l’augmentation proposée du salaire minimum.
Des études démontrent qu’un salaire minimum plus élevé réduit le roulement du personnel, ce qui accroît la productivité des entreprises.
L’Ontario propose un vaste processus de consultation afin d’obtenir la rétroaction d’une grande variété d’intéressés concernant le projet de loi envisagé. Pour faciliter cette consultation, il est proposé de soumettre le projet de loi à un comité après la première lecture.

POUR EN SAVOIR DAVANTAGE

Examen portant sur l’évolution des milieux de travail — rapport final

Politics

A Reassurance To Muslims In Brant County- MPP Dave Levac

2 Comments

In light of the terrorist attack in Quebec, isolated acts of hate crimes in Ontario and the change of direction in American politics, I want to take this opportunity to take a stance and let my constituents know who and what I stand for. I know many have a sense of foreboding and fear, and I want to assure the Brant community that we are and always will be a place of acceptance, inclusion and peace.

First and foremost, I want to reassure Muslims in the Brant community that I stand with them and support them in this time of fear. We are your neighbours and your friends. You belong here. The city of Brantford, the region of Brant, and the province of Ontario is yours just as much as anyone’s. Ontario does not belong to one group of people, to one race or to one religion. It is a province for all; and at this time, I want to extend this message especially to Muslims who may feel scared or threatened at this time.

mpp dave levac brantI also want to convey this sentiment to any other immigrant, refugee or newcomer to Brant. I will do everything in my role as MPP to support anyone experiencing anxiety and trepidation as a result of their faith, background or ethnicity. As your MPP, I am elected to represent all people of Brant, regardless of religion or country of origin.

Ontario is the most multicultural province in Canada, where half of all new immigrants make their home.
Ontario has been and will continue to be a land of opportunity. We are a prosperous and democratic society built on the hard work of immigrants. At this time, we need to recognize the foundations of our rich heritage and culture. We need to proclaim the values of acceptance, tolerance and multiculturalism in direct defiance of the politics of hate, division, segregation and fear.

As Pierre Elliot Trudeau stated, “A society which emphasizes uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate.” The constitution of Canada protects against intolerance and hate by guaranteeing everyone the freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief, opinion and expression. Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice. Everyone does truly mean everyone.

Whether you are a multi-generational Canadian, a new Canadian, an immigrant or a refugee, you have the right to life, liberty and security, and the freedom to practice any religion. No matter where you come from, if you are in Canada, you are protected by these rights.

I became an MPP in order to make Brant the best place to live, work, play and raise a family. I believe that this includes making Brant a place of multiculturalism, acceptance and tolerance. I believe that there is no room for hate at all. Love uplifts the soul. We must stand united in defense of this great beacon of hope in the world. Reject hate: embrace love. For the Silo, Dave Levac.

Culture

International UFO Symposium Landing in Brantford, Ontario June 24-26

2 Comments

Osie

As a young child living in rural Newfoundland on the outskirts of Grand Falls, Osie woke up screaming every night from her terrible UFO nightmares.

She believes she was abducted as a child – and is still being abducted today – by aliens, who have been doing medical procedures to her for her entire life.

At this summer’s Alien Cosmic Expo, June 24-26, in Brantford, Ontario, at Best Western Brant Park Inn-  Osie will discuss how her life dramatically changed only a few years ago when she discovered she not only had psychic powers but how becoming a medium paved the way for her understanding what was happening to her during her nightmare.

Osie revealed her story for the first time as one of the Experiencers interviewed in Brantford author Bob Mitchell’s book, “What if? Close Encounters of the Unusual Kind.”

Interestingly, Josie never had any interest in UFOs or aliens until her nightmares returned in 2015 and she began having very vivid out of body experiences that led to horrific encounters with other worldly beings.

Initially, she never saw the beings although she could hear them telepathically and knew they were around her.

“I saw shadows, outlines and they’re above me,” she explained. “I know they were doing stuff to me because I was screaming.

“There was so much pain. I didn’t hear any sounds. All I know is that I didn’t want to be there. I felt as if I was passing out and coming to again.”

Osie will also be on hand at ACE for Friday’s Experiencer Day where ticket holders can wander and ask questions of several invited guests.

Experiencer Day

How many of you have ever seen a UFO or encountered an alien being and never had the courage to tell anybody about the incredible experience?

What if you’ve been abducted? Who do you talk to? Can you trust even your family or closest friend with your darkest secret?

You’re not alone.

Take a read of this excerpt from “Forbidden Knowledge-Revelations of a multi-dimensional time traveler” co-written by Experiencer Jason Quitt and Brantford author Bob Mitchell.

Jason often had a difficult time keeping these topics bottled inside of him. One night his father noticed he was distressed about something.

“Unable to hold it in anymore I burst out in tears and emotion,” Jason said.

Jason told him what had been happening to him and how he was able to have out of body experiences.

“I also told him about the beings,” Jason said. “He was stunned. He tried to calm me down. But he really didn’t say too much to me.”

But his father begged him to see a psychiatrist.

“I flatly refused and was actually quite hurt and insulted by this suggestion,” Jason said. “But looking back I see how from his perspective why he wanted this for me.”

A few days later Jason was back at his father’s house and was using his computer when he noticed his father had bookmarked many pages dealing with schizophrenia.

“I knew then that I couldn’t share these experiences again with people who didn’t have a solid background in this subject,” Jason said.

“It really made me think of how Experiencers are treated in this society. I can only imagine an Experiencer sharing their story with their parents and the next thing they know they’re on heavy medication and told something is wrong with them or that the devil is influencing them.”

Indeed, you’re not alone.

People throughout the world are struggling with this dilemma every moment of their lives.

But on Friday, June 24 at the opening day of the Alien Cosmic Expo in Brantford, Ontario you’ll be able to unburden yourself to people, who know exactly what you have and are continuing to go through.

Several Experiencers, including a few who will be telling their story on stage throughout the weekend will be participating in “Experiencer Day.”

It’s your chance to share your stories with them and ask the questions you have been seeking answers for in safe and comfortable surroundings without fear of being ridiculed or judged.

“When I read that passage from “Forbidden Knowledge” it really struck a nerve with me,” said Jo-Anne Eadie, organizer of the Alien Cosmic Expo. “I actually became very emotional. I understood what Experiencers must be going through.

“It’s why a feel so strongly that we need to able to talk about these events in a safe environment such as Experience Day.”

Confirmed Experiencers so far include Joanna L Ross, Sherry Wilde, Grant Cameron, Janet Lessin and Dr. Sasha Lessin, Barry Strohm, Osie, and Elizabeth April.

The cost for Friday’s “Experiencer Day” is $99 and includes a special Friday night dinner featuring Travis Walton, one of the most recognized abductees in the world. You’ll also watch a screening of his documentary “Travis: The True Story of Travis Walton” – a documentary by Onwinges Productions.

Walton is also expected to make an appearance during the day at the Experiencer event.

The cost for just attending Friday night’s dinner and show is $45.00 + tax 

Barry Strohm

Barry Strohm has learned the history of humanity from a unique source – the spirit of an alien named Mou.

On Friday, June 25, Strohm will be among the Experiencers on hand for Experiencer Day as the Alien Cosmic Expo opens its weekend run in Brantford, Ontario.

As an author and channeler, Strohm had been communicating and receiving information from Mou and he will reveal what he has learned during his lecture on Sunday, June 26. His incredible experience is told in his book “Aliens Among Us,” which those attending ACE will also be able to purchase. In his book, Strohm takes readers on a journey that explores humanity’s past and present connection to other worldly species. Strohm, owner of Golden Lane Antique Gallery in New Oxford, Pa (one of the most haunted places in the U.S.) has discovered that aliens are able to communicate through psychic channeling and explain many of Earth’s mysteries, including what really happened at Roswell, Rendlesham Forest, Biblical alien references and how extraterrestrials have and continue to influence mankind. His wife Connie has also been abducted and the alien spirit connected to Barry has explained why and what happened during her encounter.

Strohm has also met a Reptilian. He is also known for making predictions about future events, Perhaps he will make some while at ACE.

——————————————————————————————————————————————–

This acclaimed 3 day event will be jam-packed with international researchers, authors and lecturers including Stanton Friedman, Richard Dolan, the Honorable Paul Hellyer, Grant Cameron and many more. To view the full line-up and to make note of all events please visit our friends at Alien Cosmic Expo.

 

 

Culture

Ontario Certifies Six Nation Polytech- First Aboriginal School to Award Languages Degree

Leave a comment

Six Nations Polytechnic Aboriginal Institute to Offer Standalone Languages Degree Program

Ontario Helping to Expand Post-secondary Options for Indigenous Students

 

NEWS February 8, 2016

 

Ontario is helping to improve access to culturally appropriate postsecondary education and training opportunities for Indigenous learners by making it possible for Six Nations Polytechnic, an Aboriginal Institute, to offer a standalone degree program.

 

For the first time, the province will make it possible for an Aboriginal Institute, an organization that is run and governed by Indigenous communities, to offer a standalone degree program. As of January 2016, students at Six Nations Polytechnic Aboriginal Institute in Ohsweken can obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ogwehoweh (Cayuga and Mohawk) Languages.

 

This degree will help promote and protect Ogwehoweh languages and make it possible for students to complete their degree at one institution, closer to home. It also will help students build on their linguistic skills and cultural knowledge as well as expand their opportunities to participate in the labour market. This standalone degree also supports the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which called for postsecondary institutions to create degree programs in Indigenous languages.

 

Investing in the talent and skills of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit learners is one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.

 

QUOTES

 

“Our government has made a clear commitment to learn from the past, build on our success stories, and increase our efforts to help Indigenous learners get the education and training they need. Six Nations Polytechnic is committed to creating an Indigenous environment that is grounded in culture and community, language, research, and academic quality, and this new degree program will help improve Indigenous learners’ access to, participation in, and completion of postsecondary education and training programs in Ontario.”

— Reza Moridi, Minister of Training Colleges and Universities

 

“I want to thank Six Nations Polytechnic for the leadership and guidance they have provided. Today’s announcement provides a tangible illustration of Ontario’s journey along the path of reconciliation. We will continue to rely on Indigenous partners as we chart a way forward that will produce tangible results.”

— David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs

 

“Language preservation and protection are at the core values of Six Nations Polytechnic. That’s why we have always had the intention of having our Ogwehoweh Language Diploma Program become a language degree program.”

— Rebecca Jamieson, President Six Nations Polytechnic

 

“Congratulations to Rebecca and her entire team. They have worked tirelessly to bring about the expansion of Six Nations Polytechnic programming. Education is the cornerstone of the future successes of our local Indigenous students.”

— Dave Levac, Member of Provincial Parliament, Brant

 

QUICK FACTS

 

  • Aboriginal Institutes provide opportunities for students to start and complete postsecondary education credentials in a culturally appropriate and safe learning environments close to home and are completely run and governed by Indigenous communities.
  • The Ogwehoweh (Cayuga and Mohawk) Languages degree builds on the strong foundation of the current language diploma program offered in partnership with McMaster University.
  • Six Nations Polytechnic is an Aboriginal postsecondary education and training institute located in Ohsweken, a community on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory near Brantford, Ontario.
  • Six Nations Polytechnic applied for and was granted consent to offer a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ogwehoweh (Cayuga and Mohawk) Languages.
  • Ontario provides $1.5 million in annual funding through the Aboriginal Student Bursary Fund to help Indigenous learners with financial needs participate in postsecondary education and training.
  • In June 2015 the province committed stable funding of Indigenous postsecondary education totaling $97 million over three years, including an additional $5 million to support the sustainability of Ontario’s nine Indigenous-owned and operated postsecondary education and training institutes located throughout the province. In 2013-14, about 16,036 self-identified Indigenous learners attended college and university in Ontario, an increase of about nine per cent or 1,472 learners since 2009-10.

 

LEARN MORE

 

Aboriginal Postsecondary Education and Training Bursary

Aboriginal Institutes

Aboriginal Postsecondary Education and Training Policy Framework

Aboriginal Education Strategy

 

Belinda Bien, Minister’s Office, 647-823-5489

Tanya Blazina, Communications Branch, 416-325-2746

Public inquiries, 416-325-2929 or 1-800-387-5514

TTY 1-800-268-7095

 ontario.ca/tcu-news

Disponible en français

 

 

Offre d’un programme indépendant menant à un diplôme à l’institut autochtone Six Nations Polytechnic

L’Ontario contribue à accroître les options d’études postsecondaires des étudiants autochtones

 

NOUVELLES Le 8 février 2016

 

L’Ontario contribue à améliorer l’accès des apprenantes et apprenants autochtones à des possibilités de formation et à des études postsecondaires adaptées à leur culture en permettant à la Six Nations Polytechnic, un institut autochtone, d’offrir un programme d’études indépendant menant à un diplôme.

 

Pour la première fois, la province accepte qu’un institut autochtone offre un tel programme d’études indépendant. Les instituts autochtones sont des établissements exploités et gérés par des communautés autochtones. À compter de janvier 2016, les étudiants de la Six Nations Polytechnic peuvent recevoir un baccalauréat ès arts dans les langues ogwehoweh (cayuga et mohawk).

 

Ce baccalauréat contribuera à promouvoir l’usage des langues ogwehoweh et à les protéger. Il permettra également aux étudiants de faire leurs études dans un seul établissement, plus près de chez eux. Ils pourront approfondir leurs compétences linguistiques et leurs connaissances culturelles, en s’ouvrant à davantage de possibilités d’intégrer le marché du travail. En outre, l’offre de ce programme indépendant menant à un diplôme répond à la recommandation de la Commission de vérité et réconciliation voulant que les établissements d’enseignement postsecondaire créent des programmes d’études en langues autochtones.

 

Investir dans le talent et les compétences des apprenantes et apprenants métis, inuits et des Premières Nations constitue l’une des nombreuses étapes que l’Ontario devra franchir tout au long du processus de guérison et de réconciliation. Cela reflète aussi l’engagement du gouvernement à collaborer avec ses partenaires autochtones et à bâtir un avenir meilleur pour tous les habitants de la province.

 

CITATIONS

 

« Il est indéniable que le gouvernement s’est engagé à tirer des leçons du passé, à amplifier ses réussites et à redoubler d’efforts pour aider les apprenants autochtones à entreprendre les études et la formation dont ils ont besoin. La Six Nations Polytechnic s’engage à créer un environnement propice à l’apprentissage des autochtones dont les fondements sont la culture, la communauté, la langue, la recherche et la qualité des programmes. Ce nouveau baccalauréat améliorera l’accès à l’éducation postsecondaire des apprenants autochtones en Ontario et contribuera à l’accroissement du nombre d’étudiants autochtones détenteurs d’accréditations ou de diplômes. »

— Reza Moridi, ministre de la Formation et des Collèges et Universités

 

« Je souhaite remercier la Six Nations Polytechnic pour le leadership dont elle a fait preuve et pour l’orientation qu’elle a su donner. L’annonce d’aujourd’hui illustre parfaitement le processus de réconciliation entrepris par l’Ontario et nous continuerons de collaborer avec nos partenaires autochtones en vue d’arriver à des résultats concrets. »

— David Zimmer, ministre des Affaires autochtones

 

« La préservation des langues autochtones est au cœur des valeurs de la Six Nations Polytechnic. C’est d’ailleurs pourquoi nous voulions depuis longtemps que notre programme en langues Ogwehoweh mène à un grade universitaire. »

— Rebecca Jamieson, rectrice, Six Nations Polytechnic

 

« Toutes mes félicitations à Rebecca Jamieson et à son équipe. En effet, la diversification des programmes offerts à la Six Nations Polytechnic est un travail de longue haleine. Nous savons que l’éducation est la pierre angulaire sur laquelle repose le succès des étudiants autochtones de la région. »

— Dave Levac, député provincial de Brant

 

FAITS EN BREF

 

  • Grâce aux instituts autochtones, les étudiants peuvent commencer et terminer leur éducation postsecondaire dans un milieu d’apprentissage près de chez eux qui est à la fois sécuritaire et culturellement adapté. Les instituts autochtones sont exploités et gérés par des communautés autochtones.
  • Le programme d’études en langues ogwehoweh (cayuga et mohawk) a comme base solide le programme de langues qui est actuellement offert en partenariat avec l’Université McMaster.
  • La Six Nations Polytechnic est un institut d’enseignement postsecondaire et de formation autochtone situé à Ohsweken, dans le territoire des Six Nations de la rivière Grand, près de Brantford, en Ontario.
  • La Six Nations Polytechnic a reçu l’autorisation d’offrir un programme de baccalauréat ès arts en langues ogwehoweh (cayuga et mohawk).
  • L’Ontario octroie 1,5 million de dollars par an par l’entremise du Fonds des bourses pour les étudiantes et étudiants autochtones. Ce fonds aide les apprenants autochtones ayant des besoins financiers à accéder à la formation ou aux études postsecondaires.
  • En juin 2015, la province a pris l’engagement de fournir un financement stable de 97 millions de dollars sur trois ans pour appuyer l’éducation postsecondaire des Autochtones. Cet investissement comprend un financement supplémentaire de 5 millions de dollars consacrés à la viabilité des neuf instituts d’enseignement et de formation postsecondaires de l’Ontario exploités et gérés par des communautés autochtones. En 2013‑2014, environ 16 036 apprenants auto-identifiés comme Autochtones ont fréquenté un collège ou une université en Ontario, ce qui représente une augmentation d’environ 9 %, ou de 1 472 personnes, depuis 2009‑2010.

 

 

POUR EN SAVOIR DAVANTAGE

 

Bourses pour l’éducation postsecondaire et la formation autochtones

Établissements autochtones

Cadre d’élaboration des politiques en matière d’éducation postsecondaire et de formation autochtones

Stratégie d’éducation autochtone

Culture

Are More Native Children In Gov’t Care Today Than At Height Of Residential Schools?

Leave a comment

Truth and Reconciliation Report – One Oneida Woman’s Perspective

Indian Residential Schools are a large part of Canadian History. I use the present tense. Every Canadian lives with the fallout of these schools which were to, “Kill the Indian in the Child.” Cultural Genocide the TRC [Truth and Reconciliation Commission CP] says in its opening paragraph.

In Canada, we think it a right and obligation for our children to come home safe. We kiss them on the first day of school, knowing that we will see them again when school is finished. How would you feel if your child never came home?

Mount Pleasant Indian Boarding School
Mount Pleasant Indian Boarding School

This happens today.

Families who live in small, fly-in communities have to have their children flown south to attend high school. Some never return.  http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/first-nations-want-inquest-into-7-student-deaths-1.1239226

There are more Native children is the care of the government today than at the height of the Residential Schools. http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/a-lost-tribe-child-welfare-system-accused-of-repeating-residential-school-history-sapping-aboriginal-kids-from-their-homes

Rather than empathy or acknowledgement of the past, we are told to, “Just get over it.”

Wide Distribution And Remoteness of some Reserves

Before colonization, we had no abuse, no addictions. We had no poor. Our needs were met- meaning we were one of the richest people on earth (thank you, Professor John Milloy for pointing that out to me).

I have been told that, “Since the Jews got over the Holocaust that we should just get over it.” That is insulting to both me and those who are Jewish.

Get over it.

First Nations communities suffer from the effects of the Residential Schools by having Intergenerational Trauma. We alone are not the only people who have this. Those with a family history of addictions, or abuse, or neglect feel the same effects. We had a generation or two of people who did not see parenting. They saw institutionalized abuse. How could they possibly know how to parent when they left school?

Without proper healing sources in place, and without feeling stuck in the anger, hurt, and pain which comes from Trauma, no one recovers from it.

TRCPoster

I can only speak for myself. My grandfather went to the Mush Hole in Brantford, Ontario. He was a bright student, plus when home, he spoke a couple of the Native Languages on our Six Nations Reserve. I am very proud of that.

However, while he says he (personally) was not sexually abused, he had friends who were. He was not allowed to speak his languages at school. He was denied medical care while at school, which caused permanent damage to his brain. My bright and intelligent grandfather became stuck in the poverty cycle. And, the addictions cycle. He couldn’t cope without the structure which was forced on him at school. He couldn’t function well on the reserve. What the school taught his was agriculture. He worked the tobacco fields when he could. Then, he was on welfare.

On top of his mental capabilities, the alcohol killed him inside. Because of him, my mother was raised in a non-Native foster home, not knowing she was Oneida until she was 18. Her foster home denied her access to knowledge of her family on the reserve which was 10 minutes away.

My mom’s foster family did the best they could according to the times. In the 1940’s and 1950’s, it was best to be seen bringing up a little Indian girl in a good Christian family, a family which included a foster father who also had an addictions issue.

Her upbringing effected how I was raised. She also did the best she could. She tried her best to be a good mom, a mom who loved and cared for her own biological children. But also kept them at bay emotionally.  She did not know how to really bond as a mom.

Because of the Residential School, my mom did not learn how to properly parent. As for me, I looked for parents I could follow. I am doing the best I can. I hope I my kids do better.

I hope my kids see that while I am Oneida, that does not make me less-than a full person. I hope they see that the Oneida blood that we share is a privilege, something to be honoured and respected. I hope they see it as something that bonds us to other First Nations people around Turtle Island. We are a strong people. We didn’t die. We learned how to survive. Now, we are striving to learn how to live in peace again.

For, you see, the Residential Schools did not kill the Indian in the child. Even with the horrific events which happened, we did not die. We are blossoming as a rose. We will overcome and heal.

Anger needs to be let go. Treaties need to be upheld. If the Canadian government did not want to fulfill the treaties, why were they included in the Canadian Constitution? They are a matter of law. Deal with it, Harper. We don’t expect handouts. We need the highest levels of Canadian law respected and enforced. The government needs to honour their obligations which they proposed, agreed to, and reinforced in the Constitution in 1982.

There is Truth – they tried to kill us off. Now, please, let there be Reconciliation. We all need to acknowledge the past and present to make a future which honours the laws of Our Lands. We agreed to share our land for the benefit of all, not to be killed off. Let us all honour our agreements.  For the Silo, Stephanie MacDonald

Click to view on I-tunes
Click to view on I-tunes
Culture

Why We March Globally Against Monsanto

Leave a comment
It takes strength to usher in change and there's strength in numbers.
It takes strength to usher in change and there’s strength in numbers.

For those who are not aware of Monsanto or its global influence, I would like to provide you with some background information before explaining just why it is important to stand against the corporation and its actions.

 Monsanto is an international agricultural corporation which is based out of the United States. It originated in 1901 and has functioned mainly as a pesticide corporation but as of recently it has been implementing genetically engineered seeds. These seeds, which are being sold and grow in many parts of the world, do not have the ability to reproduce, thereby forcing farmers to purchase a new set of seeds from the company each season. In many situations, the farmers have no choice but to continue paying into the corporation because no other seeds are available in their area. Monsanto is also the leader producer (and creator) of the herbicide “Glyphosate” (a herbicide which is used specifically to kill weeds around the GM crops but leave the crops un-harmed. This is made possible through the genetic tampering of the seeds which makes them resistant to the herbicide).

Monsanto has been adamantly rejecting many accusations that have been coming their way in more recent years. In fact, they go out of their way to address the international conversation that has been taking place about their “terminator” seeds and their inability to reproduce (provide seeds that can then be planted the following season). They claim in a statement on their website that “Monsanto has never commercialized a biotech trait that resulted in sterile – or “terminator” – seeds” (Monsanto Website). The website is littered with fabricated stories, pictures of smiling farmers and claims that Monsanto has their best interests at heart. The truth is many farmers are struggling to make the expensive purchases of Monsanto seeds and herbicide. Debt is rising in rural areas around the world (India taking one of the hardest hits, with thousands of farmer suicides being said to be associated with debt owed to Monsanto and their inability to support themselves) and a countless number of individuals are suffering because of the negative side effects. Monsanto has a huge stake in the worlds production of seeds and is already working on spreading their patents to broccoli and eggplant despite international disagreement.

This is why we march. The global March Against Monsanto is a worldwide call of action aimed at informing the public of the long term health, environmental, and financial effects of genetically modified foods. Last years globalized day of action took place with over 2 million people took to the streets to express their opinions and attempt to reclaim the food systems. We march for seed freedom (because seeds are a source of life, and corporations should not have the ability to patent life), for the labeling of GMO foods, to promote organic and sustainable alternatives, to demand the accountability of those responsible for corruption, and to further the scientific research around GMOs. *name withheld on request 

 

 

 

 

Gaming

Writer Releasing Video Arcade Game Dragon’s Lair Book

Leave a comment

Collecting for Dragons Lair and Space AceBrantford, ON. The Personal Computer Museum is publishing a brand new book called “Collecting for Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace” (ISBN 978-1490383583) that covers two of the most loved LaserDisc video games ever made. Dragon’s Lair officially turned 30 years old on June 19, 2013.

Written by Syd Bolton, who (according to the CBC) has the largest collection of video games in Canada.

Collecting for Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace not only chronicles the hundreds of home releases of games, clothing, collectible merchandise, magazines, toys and more, but also includes an incredible amount of behind-the-scenes information on the development of the games which continue to see home releases right up until this year.

“Along with an introduction that’ll likely slap a nostalgic smile across your face, Syd Bolton has exhaustively aggregated and annotated virtually every Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace video game and merchandise known to modern man” says Marc Saltzman, syndicated gaming and technology columnist, author, TV and radio show host. “While it’s a specialist’s book, game enthusiasts, retro fans, and old folks will find it a fun read” says Steven Kent, noted video game historian and author of “The Ultimate History of Video Games”.

The book will ship next week (July 24, 2013) and can be ordered through the website

www.collectingfor.com, which will contain support materials for the book shortly. The book will also be available on Amazon.com next week. It is 170 pages, 8.5″x11″, full color and perfect bound.

Dragon’s Lair recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and was the first fully animated LaserDisc video game. It generated millions in sales and revived, for a short time, the ailing arcade industry. The follow-up, Space Ace, was released in the Spring of 1984. Unfortunately, the arcade business continued to decline. Both games have been available for home computers and game consoles since 1984 spanning hundreds of releases and also spawned many related items.

 

Interest in the franchise has continued to this day and there is even a new documentary film “Inside the Dragon’s Lair” in the works which is expected to release in 2014. For the Silo, by Syd Bolton. 

 

Culture

Woodland Cultural Exhibit Formed Engaging Look At Six Nations

Leave a comment

BRANTFORD, ON –– The Woodland Cultural Centre is proud to announce the launch of their first exhibit for 2013, “Spirit of Community: People and Neighbourhoods”. This all-new exhibit will officially open Monday January 21st, 2013.

Exploring the heart of Six Nations, this exciting exhibit examines the community, people, places and landscape that make it so unique. Featured in this exhibit are some of the finest examples from Woodland’s historical photography archive, as well as contemporary works by artists Anthony Henhawk Jr, Patricia Hess, Brenda Mitten, and Shelley Niro. The contemporary and historical material work together to create an engaging look at the Six Nations community.

An historical council house photograh from the Woodland historical photography collection.
An historical council house photograh from the Woodland historical photography collection.

 

“Understanding the roots of a community is so important to understanding it as a whole”, said Janis Monture, Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre. “With the help of these amazing artists, I feel that we’ve been able to create a comprehensive portrait of Six Nations and its people.”

Running until March 31st, 2013, “Spirit of Community: People and Neighbourhoods” will officially open Monday January 21st, 2013 upon the opening of the museum. All visitors are invited to learn the history, and experience the culture of Six Nations.

Established in 1972, the Woodland Cultural Centre has been an integral cultural and educational centre within the Brantford and Six Nations communities. Its goal is to protect, promote, interpret, and present the history, language, intellect and cultural heritage of the Anishinaabe and Onkwehon:we people. Providing several permanent and short-term exhibits, the Woodland Cultural Centre also focuses on language and cultural preservation that includes several special events such as arts and crafts workshops, Snowsnake tournaments, and much more.

 

Politics

Grand Erie Schoolboard innovates with Parenting and Family Literacy Centres

Leave a comment

Brantford ON – Grand Erie is excited to offer, for the first time, two Parenting and Family Literacy Centres (PFLCs) at Major Ballachey and Princess Elizabeth elementary schools in Brantford. These centres are places where parents and children can come to play and learn together, families can be introduced to the school system, and children can prepare for Kindergarten.

“We know that a parent is the child’s first and most important teacher,” said Brenda Blancher, Superintendent of Education. “The Parenting and Family Literacy Centres will help prepare children in these school communities for starting school and encourage families to be a part of their children’s learning.”

PFLCs are programs for parents and children of preschool age – from babies to age six. The program offers play-based learning activities that focus on the development of the child and an early love of reading and math. Children’s early learning and development are supported through play while the foundations are laid for a successful transition to school.

On behalf of the Trustees, Chair Rita Collver said she is pleased the Board will offer two centres serving parents and children in the school communities of Major Ballachey and Princess Elizabeth. Trustees advocated for a Parenting and Family Literacy Centre in Grand Erie since the Government of Ontario introduced the initiative in 2007. “Children and parents will engage in play-based learning activities that include music, story time, reading and counting,” said Collver. “Research shows that early childhood education and parent engagement help improve student achievement once children start attending school.”

The sites will be ready for parents and children early in the new year. There is no pre-registration needed and the centres are free for all families.
For more information about Parenting and Family Literacy Centres, visit the Parent Tab at www.granderie.ca

Politics

Grand Erie school board offers speaker session on LGBTQ perspectives and allies in education

Leave a comment

Grand Erie District School Board is proud to offer an Equity Speaker Series to its staff as part of our ongoing commitment, education and awareness related to Safe and Inclusive Schools.  Previous Equity Speaker Series have included such topics as Dignity and Socio-Economic Status, Human Rights—Religion, Disability and Competing Interests, Race and Culture, and tomorrow’s session celebrates LGBTQ Perspectives & Allies in Education.  We’ve had a wonderful response from our staff to attend this session and we are pleased to invite members of the media to attend.

Please join us for an in-depth panel discussion from speakers who will share their personal journey and expertise from the perspective of the LGBTQ community.  Hosted on the International Day Against Homophobia, learn how this topic will create an awareness that equity for all supports student learning.

Equity and Inclusive Education is about making sure that students, parents, and members of the school community are welcomed and respected and that every student is supported and inspired to succeed in a culture of high expectations for learning. Shawn McKillop

Guest panelists include Marco Felvus (Child and Youth Worker), Deirdre Pike (Social Planner/Positive Space Trainer), Kevin Raymond (Parent), and Helen Victoros (Teacher).

Date:  Thursday, May 17, 2012         Time:  4:30 pm – 7:30 pm         Location:  Joseph Brant Learning Centre, 347 Erie Avenue, Brantford

Equity and Inclusive Education is about making sure that students, parents, and members of the school community are welcomed and respected and that every student is supported and inspired to succeed in a culture of high expectations for learning. For more information on Equity and Inclusive Education, please visit http://www.granderie.ca/SCHOOLS/EquityandInclusiveEducation.aspx

Shawn McKillop  |  Manager of Communications and Community Relations Grand Erie District School Board  |  349 Erie Avenue Brantford ON N3T 5V3
Office: 519.756.6301 ext. 281147  |  Toll-free: 1.888.548.8878  |  Fax: 519.756.9181 Cell: 1.905.978.1417  |  shawn.mckillop@granderie.ca  |  www.granderie.ca

Supplemental– http://www.homophobiaday.org/

Politics

Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie celebrates success of Newcomers mentoring program

Leave a comment
According to Greek mythology: Telemachus (R) the mentor- son of Alcimus. In his old age, Telemachus was a friend of Odysseus and was placed in charge of his Son Telemachus (L)

BRANTFORD (Jan 25, 2012) — The Mentoring Skilled Newcomers program is marking Mentor Appreciation Day on Thursday by thanking individuals and organizations who have encouraged, guided and provided a positive impact on the lives and careers of newcomers in our community.
“Thank you to all the mentors who have enlisted or participated in the Newcomers program,” said Vinesh Bhagat, program coordinator.

Silo Direct Link Workforce Planning Site
The program is a project of the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie that connects foreign-trained professionals with mentors. Mentoring provides newcomers an opportunity to learn about the Canadian workplace culture from an experienced mentor and broaden their professional network in a new community. Mentors, meanwhile, have benefitted from improved communication and leadership skills, as well as broadening their knowledge of diverse global cultures.

Silo Direct Link WorkforcePlanning Web
“I am happy to be a part of this process and feel honoured to have the experience of working with my mentee…This is such a wonderful program,” said Jennifer Woodley, a mentor from the Grand Erie District School Board.
Funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada-Multiculturalism Program, the Mentoring Skilled Newcomers program has received 50 referrals from Employment Ontario and settlement agencies since the program began in September 2010.
To date, 20 mentoring partnerships have been created with mentors in professions such as teaching, social work, banking, finance, hotel and tourism, statistical research, accounting, geology and engineering. Mentors in the following fields are currently needed: horticulture, geology, hospital management, electrical engineering, mental health, ultrasound technology and corporate training.
To learn more about the Newcomers program or become a mentor, contact the Workforce Planning Board at 519-756-1116 or admin@workforceplanningboard.org   For more information, contact:
Vinesh Bhagat, Program Coordinator, GEIEC, 519-756-1116, x223
vinesh@workforceplanningboard.org
Jill Halyk, executive director, Workforce Planning Board, 519-756-1116, x227 jhalyk@workforceplanningboard.org

Art

Terezin,MacDougall and Hana’s Suitcase- So What’s the Connection?

3 Comments

Definition of art is very difficult to pin down.  As an oil painter I look at art one way.  An actor would think of it another way.  But really the definition doesn’t matter all that much.  Art surrounds us wherever we are, if only we choose to see it.  Sometimes though, we need to be reminded of that.

When I entered the concentration camp at Terezin in the Czech Republic that November day, the last thing I thought I would see was art.  I didn’t know that the children who lived there drew pictures, coloured them, and even wrote poems.  But there they were.  The paintings and words hung up on the museum wall. The wall was at least 50 feet high.  They had miraculously survived Terezin, even when the children themselves had not.  I stood in front of that wall for a long time, hesitant to leave.  Afraid that maybe I would need reminding again once I was back home.

Fast forward a year and Terezin has touched my life again.  Hana’s Suitcase, which is set in Terezin, is being presented by Theatre Norfolk and COMPASS Theatre Productions, in partnership with W. Ross MacDonald School for the Blind, and I had the opportunity to meet the cast and talk about my experiences at Terezin.  I also had the opportunity to watch renowned actor and director Lee MacDougall guide the cast of talented local and emerging actors through the paces of this emotional, heart wrenching play which took me right back to that wall.

Silo Behind the Scenes: Rehearsal of Hanna's Suitcase

In this play child actors play some of the main characters.  Hana was sent to Terezin when she was 11.  This play is being performed for over 1200 students in Grades 4-12; Children teaching children and because this play is for everyone; children teaching adults.  It speaks to hatred and intolerance.  It also speaks to hope and beauty.  It’s amazing how children are able to see both at the same time.  I wonder when we, as adults, forget how to do that.

I hope that you will take the time to see Hana’s Suitcase and be reminded of all the things that you should never forget while watching art at its finest.

Hana’s Suitcase, adapted by Emil Sher based on the book by Karen Levine, is being presented at W. Ross MacDonald Auditorium Dec. 2nd, 3rd & 4th.  Tickets are on
sale at Scotia Bank, Lynden Road, and at the Lighthouse Festival Theatre.  For more info and to purchase tickets visit Silo Direct Link to Theatre Norfolk Website

By Karen Wilson.  Silo Direct Link to Karen’s artsco Gallery Page

Designed by Dean Gailbraith of Picasso Fish
Gaming, Vintage

Mourning The Macho Man

1 Comment

“Oh yeah”

Back in the mid 80’s, my high school buddies and I would travel every month or so from Simcoe to the Brantford Civic Center to get our fill of WWF wrestling.  It was great because in those days they used to do the TV taping right there in Brantford  for broadcast all over North America.  It was usually a long night of about 3 hours of wrestling for 3 different TV shows.  For $5 it was the best entertainment value around.  Sometimes the matches would drag on.

Harley Race and Nikolai Volkoff were not exactly the most captivating performers, but we would endure them waiting for something to peak our interest.  I’ll never forget the night a new wrestler was introduced to us.  The ring announcer welcomed him as Randy ‘Macho Man’ Savage.  Out he came in a garish, metallic robe which reflected the television lights in a million directions.  He had a maniacal look on his face and he revealed the craziest wild eyes when he finally removed his dark ski-goggle type sunglasses.  His matted hair was held back by a colourful headband and he sported an unruly beard.
Once in the ring, he took off the robe to reveal not the plodding weightlifter type body we were used to seeing, but the more sinewy muscularity of an athlete.  We, the veteran and savvy fans, took this new guy and his ring entrance with a grain of salt.  “Macho Man”?  Really?  “Who calls themselves the “Macho Man”?” we thought.  At that time our only reference to a Macho Man was voiced by a pop group named the Village People, and that was just plain challenging for a group of adolescent high school boys. So we watched on with wary eyes.  The bell rung, the match started, and then the Macho Man turned into a human whirlwind.

He raced around the ring delivering all his moves with expert efficiency, but at a hyper-speed we had never seen before.  He threw his man out of the ring, darted up to the top turnbuckle and came down hard onto the opponent’s backside with a double axe handle.   He then threw the poor sod back in,  picked him up and body-slammed him to the centre of the ring and jumped back up onto the top turnbuckle as quick as a cat.  What was he going to do now?  He raised his arms and pointed his fingers up high towards the arena roof and paused for a moment while the crowd held its collective breath.  Then….he leapt.  Sky-high into the air he launched, coming down with devastating force into the chest of his opponent with what would become his signature move, the Flying Elbow.  One, two, three, and it was all over in the blink of an eye.  We were awestruck.  A star was born.  After that display of wrestling awesomeness, it goes without saying that we were now all charter members of the Macho Madness fan club.

Savage’s “Oooooyyeeaaah” catch phrase and white-hot interviews would solidify his character, and his lovely manager Elizabeth would provide the eye candy which surely helped propel him to the highest heights of wrestling stardom.  Whenever his entrance music, “Pomp and Circumstance” hit, the excitement level dialled up to a fever pitch.  He would become a multi-time WWF champion and face off against Hulk Hogan in the top money-drawing program of the day.  His crowning achievement was likely his match against Ricky Steamboat at Wrestlemania 3 in what is widely regarded as one of the best wrestling matches of all time.

Randy Savage, real name Randy Poffo, died tragically in Florida last month after having a heart attack while driving his car and then colliding with a tree.  He leaves us at the too young age of 58. I know my buddies and I are not the only ones out there missing him.  I’m sure some of you have your own favourite Macho Man moments.

Maybe you should have a stroll down memory lane and check out some Macho Man on Youtube  In my mind, he was thegreatest of all time. John McIntosh is a favourite writer for The Silo.