Celebrating Diversity – October 12 to 20

Posted on October 12, 2009 by kfarbridge

October 12 – Thanksgiving (Canada) – Early Canadian settlers gave thanks for good harvests by decorating their churches with fruits and vegetables and celebrating dinner with venison and waterfowl.
October 12 – Columbus Day (Observed) (USA) –This day commemorates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the New World.
October 12-16 – Gahambar Ayathrem (Zoroastrian) – This [...]

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World Mental Health Day

Posted on October 9, 2009 by kfarbridge

Yesterday was World Mental Health Day.  I hosted the 10th annual Mayor’s Initiative on Mental Health.  I was joined by over 70 leaders from across the community.   The theme this year was mental health concerns of children and youth.  We heard from three speakers and viewed a powerful new documentary on children and youth mental health issues developed by [...]

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City revenues decline

Posted on October 9, 2009 by kfarbridge

Like business, municipal governments are being hit by the economic downturn.  Our revenues are down significantly primarily as a result of the downturn in the economy.
The revenue impacts are being experienced in various budget areas and are estimated at over $8 million lower in 2010.   

Interest Revenues decline  – $1.6 million 
Lower prices on recycling materials - $1.1 million
Reduction [...]

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Democracy and tolerance

Posted on October 8, 2009 by kfarbridge

Last Monday night was a Planning Meeting.  Council met to receive public input on two planning applications.
One of the proposed developments drew many people from the adjacent neighbourhood.  An evening that began as an excellent example of public involvement with so many people in attendance ended on a sour note for democracy and public participation.
No decision was being made on the [...]

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Get the facts on flu

Posted on October 8, 2009 by kfarbridge

There will be a public information session about the flu – both seasonal and H1N1 – on Wednesday, November 4 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Bishop Macdonell Catholic High School, 200 Clair Road West.  
Topics will include how to prevent the flu, flu vaccines, and what to do if you get the flu. The session is free [...]

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Breaking ground on the new South End Emergency Services Station

Posted on October 2, 2009 by kfarbridge

Today, we ceremonially broke ground on a new Emergency Services Station in the south end that will house Police, Fire, and EMS personnel. Admittedly, we’re a little late in holding the sod turning – construction began in June – but this was our first chance to get everyone together, and we didn’t want to wait [...]

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Celebrating Diversity – October 2 to 11

Posted on October 2, 2009 by kfarbridge

October 2 – Gandhi’s Birthday (India) – He is the National Father of India who adopted ‘non-violence’ in fighting for freedom of the country.
October 3-9 – Sukkot – Feast of Booths (Jewish) – The Feast of Booths is a joyful harvest festival lasting 9 days.  A little hut called ‘sukkah’ is built outdoors where families [...]

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Celebrating Diversity – October

Posted on October 1, 2009 by kfarbridge

October – Disability Employment Awareness Month (USA) – It began with the Presidential Proclamation in 1988.  This law replaced ‘National Employ the Handicapped Week’ which had occurred annually since 1945 during the first week in October.  The new law also recognized the change in terminology and replaced the term ‘handicap’ with ‘disability’.
October – Women’s History [...]

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