Wednesday, April 29, 2009

City of Barrie Proud to Host National Youth Week May 1st – May 7th

Barrie, ON - National Youth Week for 2009 is happening from May 1st to May 7th, 2009. The week is all about celebrating the young people in our community with activities taking place throughout the week. There are three jam packed days of youth fun!

Friday, May 1st Kick Off Party at the Holly Community Centre
4:00 – 7:00pm: Choose your favourite pizza company in Barrie from over 20 companies!
7:00 – 10:30pm: Much Music Video Dance Party hosted by Rock 95

Saturday, May 2nd Holly Community Centre
1:00 – 6:00pm: Dodgeball tournament, Mosaics Holly Youth Centre and a Guitar Hero Competition.

Monday, May 4th Job and Volunteer Fair at the Holly Community Centre
5:30 – 8:00pm: Meet with over 15 employers to accept resumes and talk about their job openings! There is also the chance to check out some volunteer opportunities for those that are still looking for their community service hours.

If you are looking for further information or a complete schedule check out the City of Barrie website at www.barrie.ca or call 792-7925 (7).

THE SHOW MUST GO ON FOR THE RED BARN THEATRE’S DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY SEASON

Jackson’s Point, Ontario –

On April 18, 2009, Canada’s Longest Running Professional Summer Theatre became a pile of ashes as the historic Red Barn succumbed to a devastating fire.

The tributes continue to pour in from across Canada, recognizing The Red Barn Theatre’s remarkable contribution to the arts in Canada and expressing a strong desire that our 2009 Season go ahead as planned. And so, in true theatrical fashion, we are doing just that.

With wonderful ideas and generous offers from around the Province, the Board of The Lake Simcoe Arts Foundation met to decide where our season would be held. In a unanimous decision, the Board chose to stay within our own wonderful community of Georgina and accepted the Town of Georgina’s offer of the Stephen Leacock Theatre as our temporary home. The Board, and everyone at The Red Barn Theatre, express their deep appreciation and thanks to those organizations displaced from the Stephen Leacock Theatre during our temporary relocation.

So, celebrating six decades of showcasing dynamic theatre performed by top Canadian talent, The Red Barn Theatre is back for its 60th Anniversary Season, kicking off with The Glass Menagerie (June 18 to July 4), originally performed during the inaugural 1949 season at the theatre. Next up is the funny but profoundly emotional comedy, The Melville Boys (July 9 to 25). The end of July sees the arrival of the world’s longest running musical, The Fantasticks (July 30 to August 15). Closing out the run is the hilarious comedy, Harvest (August 20 to September 5), the story of an old farming couple who rent out their farmhouse to a nice man, who then turns their family farm into something less than legitimate.

Subscriptions, Flexpaks and Single Tickets are on sale now! Call the Box Office at 905 722 3249, 1 888 733 2276 or visit www.redbarntheatre.ca for more information. The onsite box office opens May 11, 2009 at the Stephen Leacock Theatre, 130 Gwendolyn Blvd., Keswick.

The Lake Simcoe Arts Foundation is committed to keeping the spirit of The Red Barn Theatre alive and well in Jackson’s Point during our temporary relocation to Keswick. Therefore, a series of events will take place on the Red Barn site this summer under a tent which has been generously donated by All Reasons Party Rentals. A Committee of dedicated supporters is being composed, drawing on our volunteers, Jackson’s Point merchants, and local artists. Expect some great things happening in Jackson's Point this summer!

The Red Barn Theatre eagerly looks forward to opening the doors to its new home in the near future on the same ground that welcomed so many. Fundraising activities are already underway such as: the Marquee Theatre Productions offer to collect funds during their current production of Anne of Green Gables in Aurora, YRMG in association with Kingfest’s 50’s & 60’s Dance on May 29th in Newmarket and, finally, our own Gala Fundraising at the Richmond Hill Centre For Performing Arts with Louise Pitre & John Alcorn in Concert on August 30th. Donations are also most welcome and can be mailed to The Red Barn Theatre, 991 Lake Drive E, Jackson’s Point ON L0E 1N0.

Join us this season and pay tribute to The Red Barn’s rich legacy. We need your support now more than ever.

Free Grant Writing Workshop for Individual Artists

(Barrie, ON) If you are a local artist and are looking for some assistance in applying for grant funding, this is your opportunity knocking. The Department of Culture is pleased to offer a grant writing workshop for individual artists from the Barrie area. This workshop will teach participants how to align their application to their personal business plan and maximize possible support.

“This workshop is a great opportunity for artists to learn some essential tricks when applying for funding. They will be provided with tips on how to research and prepare their application in order to increase their chances of success,“ says Onnie Groves, Cultural Officer.

The workshop facilitator is Trudee Romanek, a local published author and recipient of one of the first Barrie Arts Awards. During her career, she has spent a great deal of time applying to funding bodies at all levels of government. This free workshop will take place at City Hall on Saturday May 30th from 9:00 am until 12:00 noon in the Sir Robert Barrie Room located on the second floor. While there is no fee for the workshop, you must pre-register prior to May 28th with Onnie Groves by calling at 739-4220 Ext. 4794.

About Barrie – Barrie is an exciting, caring and progressive community that 135,000 people call home. Situated 90 km north of the Greater Toronto Area on beautiful Kempenfelt Bay, Barrie offers an excellent life style and multitude of recreational opportunities. We are committed to the growth of prosperity of Central Ontario’s leading City and most dynamic waterfront community.

Can You Prevent The Swine Flu?

Doctor Reveals How To Reduce Your Exposure To Deadly Disease

The worst case scenario for a Swine Flu epidemic looks grim, according to government sources. Two million dead. Hospitals overwhelmed. Schools closed.

The government estimates that a pandemic like the 1918 Spanish flu would sicken 90 million Americans, or about 30 percent of the population. Of those, nearly 10 million would have to be admitted to a hospital, and nearly 1.5 million would need intensive care. About 750,000 would need the help of mechanical ventilators to keep breathing.

While there is no vaccine for the disease, and no way to guarantee prevention against infection, one doctor believes that there are simple and easy ways we can all reduce our susceptibility to infection.

“Most flus enter our body through our noses, and the organ in our nose that is critical to fighting infection is the nasal cilia,” said sinus infection expert Dr. Murray Grossan, author of Free Yourself from Sinus and Allergy Problems – Permanently from Hydro Med, Inc. (www.drgrossan.com). “If you take care of your cilia, and take steps to enhance their ability to ward off infection, you can increase your immune response and reduce your susceptibility to Swine Flu.”

With Swine Flu overtaking foreign countries and also making its presence known in the United States, people feel helpless because there is no vaccine and limited preventative measures they can take to prevent against infection.

But Dr. Grossan, an expert in the causes and prevention of sinus infections, believes that the same methods he advises his patients to prevent sinus infection and the cold can also be useful in helping to prevent Swine Flu.

“The key to preventing sinus infections, and repeated sinus infections, is healthy nasal cilia,” Dr. Grossan said. “They are our first line of defense, and too many OTC products may be harmful. My method is to enhance cilia health so that the organ can do the job it was intended to do – keep us healthy.”

Tea is one main weapon in the arsenal to fight infection, he said.

“Tea can boost the body’s defense fivefold,” Dr. Grossan said. “Dr. Jack Bukowski of Harvard reported that five cups of tea per day increased the body’s defenses against disease. The chemical in tea, L-theanine, transforms into ethylamine in the liver. Ethylamine is a molecule that primes the response of an immune blood cell, one of the T cells. These T cells, called gamma delta T cells, prompt the secretion of interferon, a key defense against infection. Tea is also high in antioxidants and actually stimulates cilia action.”

Chicken soup is also not a cliché in this case, he said. It contains properties that are critical to cilia health, and can actually help keep them strong.

There are also a number of over the counter products that can be used to protect the cilia topically, and these remedies are usually employed by travelers on airplanes.

“These gels coat the cilia, and prevent bacteria from penetrating to the nasal tissue, thereby helping to prevent infection,” he added.

Relaxation is also important, as is a good night’s sleep, according to Dr. Grossan.

“When you’re stressed out and exhausted, your immune response is significantly hampered, and you are more susceptible to infection,” he said. “Learning to relax and relieve your stress is an important tool in the fight against disease, and a general aid to good health.”

About Dr. Murray Grossan

Dr. Murray Grossan, M.D. has over 40 years experience treating patients in all aspects of otorhinolaryngology. He specializes in both surgical and non-surgical treatment techniques, including numerous new therapies that are more effective than drugs or surgery. He is the inventor of the Original Grossan Pulsatile Nasal Irrigation System. Dr. Grossan is also the author of dozens of medical journal articles and several books. He is interviewed regularly for news articles and television health/news pieces. Dr. Grossan is also available for speaking engagements.

BARRIE FIREFIGHTERS & ICE CREAM HERE’S THE SCOOP

Baskin Robbins Canada Hosts 31 Cent Scoop Night To Help Firefighters Build Permanent Memorial

WHAT: Today is 31 Cent Scoop Night at all Baskin Robbins across Canada! Local firefighters are teaming up with Baskin Robbins stores across the country to raise money to build a national memorial.

Enjoy a Junior Scoop of ice cream or the new Soft Serve cone for only 31 cents. This is a great chance to get out with friends and family to enjoy spring in our community with firefighters taking part in the celebration. While enjoying your favourite ice cream explore a fire truck and chat with firefighters about the role they play in Canada and their hopes for an Ottawa monument.

WHY: The Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation is raising funds to build the only permanent, national memorial to firefighters who’ve died in the line of duty. Baskin Robbins is helping them make this happen. In addition to a $10,000 donation to CFFF, Baskin Robbins invites the public to make donations tonight in the stores. Even though provincial and municipal groups have paid homage to firefighters who have died in the line of duty, there has never been an organized national venue to honour Canadian fallen firefighters.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 29th, 2009
5:00pm to 10:00pm

WHERE: Baskin Robbins
331 Bayfield Street
Barrie, Ontario

COST: The cost of a 2.5 oz scoop of hard ice cream or the new 3oz soft serve will be 31 cents plus applicable taxes.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

United Way of Greater Simcoe County Seeks to Borrow a Few Good Workers

Barrie, ON, April 28, 2009 – United Way of Greater Simcoe County is calling on local companies to lend their best and brightest to help strengthen our community through its Loaned Representative program. United Way depends on Loaned Representatives to help keep its fundraising costs low by increasing its workforce and maximizing staff efforts. In return, United Way provides a unique mentorship program that develops employee sales and leadership skills, while creating a better understanding of community organizations.

As part of the United Way team, Loaned Representatives work with staff and volunteers to develop and implement workplace campaigns by communicating with donors and helping to cultivate relationships with companies and organizations. The full-time seasonal role typically lasts 16 weeks from mid-August through to mid-December. United Way is looking for a number of Loaned Representatives for the 2009 campaign.

Since the United Way launched its Loaned Representative program many years ago, a number of local companies like ExpertTech, Huronia Regional Centre and Canadian Forces Base Borden have participated. “The Loaned Rep program is win-win for United Way and participating companies,” said Colonel Guy Hamel, Commander for Canadian Forces Base Borden. “United Way gets skills and expertise at the same time companies get a unique training program and professional opportunity that reinvigorates employees while serving their communities.”

Companies interested in participating in the Loaned Representative program should contact Seija Suutari at 705-726-2301 ext 26 or seijas@unitedwaysimcoecounty.on.ca.
• United Way has been effecting change in Greater Simcoe County for 50 years.
• Annually United Way funded agencies touch the lives of 1 in 3 people, which equates to more than 150,000 individuals in our community.
• Your support allows UWGSC to continue this important work and reach out to those most in need.
• Please help us in our quest to build a better community.

For more information or to make a donation please call 705-726-2301.

Barrie’s Vision Supports Sustainable Growth

Barrie, Ontario) – It has been clear for some time that there are two visions for growth in Simcoe County. The first is the vision of Places to Grow; of compact communities served by transit and other urban services with growth concentrated in and around existing urban areas. Barrie City Council supports this recommendation by the 2006 Inter-Governmental Action Plan and its vision for smart growth in our area. The second vision calls for dispersed growth in rural areas spread across south Simcoe, as laid out in the County of Simcoe’s draft Official Plan, and reflected in the Town of Innisfil’s recent OPA’s.

“The City of Barrie has been committed to addressing this important issue for many years. That is why Barrie has participated in numerous studies dating back to 2002, and why we entered into formal discussions beginning in 2006 with the Town of Innisfil facilitated by the Provincial Development Facilitator. We proceeded through that process in good faith and we’re disappointed that we have yet to find a solution acceptable to all parties,” comments Jon Babulic Chief Administrative Officer, City of Barrie.

Barrie . strongly supports the Places to Grow Growth Plan and is committed to our shared vision for a sustainable approach to growth in Simcoe

“The County should be concerned about growing more sustainably, not who is "rewarded" by the Province. The reward for a responsible and speedy resolution of the growth management dispute is more jobs, a cleaner Lake Simcoe, and more sustainable development in our region,” adds Jeff Lehman, Chair of the Working Group on Boundary Expansion. “This will benefit both Barrie and Innisfil. The current impasse is costing both Innisfil and Barrie jobs. Enough is enough. The economy of our area depends on a speedy resolution to this matter and we applaud Minister Watson and MPP Carroll for their leadership in moving toward a solution.”

Councillor Barry Ward, member of the Working Group on Boundary Expansion stated: “The resolution by Simcoe County comes the day after Barrie’s General Committee supported an intensification strategy which meets or exceeds the province’s guidelines in terms of promoting economic development while protecting our environment. We are also committed to meeting provincial requirements in terms of

Monday, April 27, 2009

Doctors and medical practitioners click together for kids

Every time a child in Ontario is admitted to an emergency room, discharged
from a hospital, administered a treatment or tested for any condition or
disease, an individual record is created. To obtain access to the results,
physicians have had to learn of the activity, request the file, and wait
for it to be mailed, faxed, or called in. Now, there is a new way for
health care providers to gain access to such vital results - via an
Ontario-wide fully integrated electronic health record system called the
electronic Child Health Network or eCHN.

"Before eCHN, I would wait days and weeks to have access to the
information," said Dr. Alan Hudak, former Chief of Paediatrics and
Neonatal Medicine, Orillia Solders' Memorial Hospital. "Using eCHN, I can
access each test and result with a click of a button as soon as the report
is filed."

The program reaches over 100 hospital sites including all Tertiary Care
Centres in Ontario as well as Community, Children's treatment and
independent Medical Centres. Independent paediatricans and family doctors
are also members of the system. eCHN contains the health records of more
than one million of Ontario's children. Health care providers on the
system have access to secure, accurate and up-to-date patient information
in real-time.

eCHN is especially important in the treatment of children suffering from
such chronic conditions or diseases as cancer, diabetes, cerebral palsy,
acquired brain injury, muscular dystrophy, amputation, epilepsy, spina
bifida, arthritis, cleft-lip and palate, autism and other developmental
disabilities.

"eCHN reduces the chances of a record being illegible, lost or
unavailable," said Dr. Hudak. "It also diminishes the need for repeat
diagnostic testing."

"eCHN has made the dream of e-Health a reality," said Ontario Health
Minister David Caplan. "My goal is to have an electronic health system for
all residents of Ontario fully in place by 2015. eCHN serves as an
inspiration as we continue down the path of modernizing the entire
healthcare system."

Following its 10 year Anniversary, eCHN hopes to expand even further in
Ontario to more independent medical clinics, paediatricans and family
doctors.

"Over the last 10 years, eCHN has grown organically in the way physicians,
therapists and nurses felt it was most useful," said Andrew Szende,
president and CEO, eCHN. "As more health care practitioners continue to
adopt the system, we look forward to the day when every person can have
their own electronic medical chart."

Three Canadian growers sought for pesticide-free gardening stories

April 27, 2009

As Canadians get ready to say hello to May flowers, gardeners from coast
to coast are invited to show the rest of the country how growing without
pesticides can create both a safe and stunning summer sanctuary.

The David Suzuki Foundation is looking for three brave Canadians to share
the trials, tribulations and successes of their 2009 gardening season at
it unfolds – from early efforts in soil prep and composting, through
seeding and weeding, to reaping the joys of their harvest. It's all part
of the 3rd Annual David Suzuki Digs My Garden Contest, which has become a
true Canadian perennial.

"Whether you're a gardening guru or a planting virgin, we're looking for
someone passionate about telling their story and learning how to grow
without synthetic chemicals," says Suzuki's Queen of Green Lindsay
Coulter.

The three lucky gardeners will be profiled on www.davidsuzuki.org using
videos, blogs, pictures and stories that are updated daily. With some help
from the pros, these gardeners will show the rest of Canada what it's like
to garden without the use of cosmetic pesticides – which were banned this
year in Ontario and Quebec and could be headed that way in PEI and New
Brunswick.

"Pesticides poison thousands of Canadians every year, even as they remain
some of the most widely used chemicals in the world," Coulter says. "Each
person who makes the choice to garden pesticide-free is doing something
great for both themselves and their communities. And we want to hear about
it!"

As a reward for throwing open their garden gates, each of the storytellers
will receive an ornamental garden gnome that bares an uncanny likeness to
Canada's best-loved environmentalist, David Suzuki.

Hundreds of Canadians sent in photographs and stories as part of last
year's contest, proving that gardeners can get their hands dirty and keep
the planet clean at the same time. To check out past submissions, or to
enter this year's competition, visit www.davidsuzuki.org/gardencontest.

Friday, April 24, 2009

COMMUNITY CELEBRATES RVH GROUNDBREAKING WHILE HOSPITAL SALUTES “REGION OF BELIEVERS”

Royal Victoria Hospital celebrated, not just the official groundbreaking for its Phase 1 Expansion Project today, but the region-wide “belief in a dream” that is making the redevelopment possible.

“This is not just a hospital we’re building. It is the heart and soul of the community, and people throughout this region should all be very proud of the milestone we are celebrating today,” said Chair of the RVH Board of Directors Steve Blanchet. “Your support of this project will allow us to enhance patient care; recruit and retrain skilled professionals; and ensure excellence is at the heart of everything we do here at RVH.”

The theme of the celebration was “believing in the future” as children dressed in surgical scrubs, lead by Ron Brown from the Kempenfelt Pipes and Drums, kicked-off the ceremony by arriving hand-in-hand with members of the RVH Auxiliary, followed by the Joy the Performing Arts Musical Theatre students singing “I Believe”, the slogan for the hospital’s community fundraising campaign.

“This expansion embodies our hopes and dreams for future generations,” RVH President and CEO Janice Skot told the hundreds of guests who packed the hospital’s atrium for the celebration. “Today we’re able to start a new chapter in Royal Victoria Hospital’s proud 112-year history, because the people of this region never lost faith that we could make that dream a reality.”

Barrie MPP and Minister of Culture Aileen Carroll said “I am pleased to see construction underway on Royal Victoria’s expansion project. This project demonstrates our government’s commitment to provide resources and facilities to serve the health care needs of people across Ontario.”

Construction is progressing rapidly on the $400 million expansion, which will double the size of the existing hospital and include 101 new inpatient beds and two patient care units for future expansion; a dedicated Coronary Care Unit; an expanded Emergency Department, Imaging Services Department and Laboratory; two new operating rooms; and the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. The cancer centre will feature four radiation suites and will log 60,000 patient visits in its first of operation alone.

11 year-old Garrett McMullen, who lost his mother Doris to cancer just over a month ago, told the overflow crowd of the impact the cancer centre will have on patients and their families throughout the region. “My mom battled cancer all my life and I don’t want anyone to ever have to go through what we did,” said Garrett who, while his mom was still alive, sold wristbands to raise money for the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. “This cancer centre will provide other mothers and fathers with treatment close to home so they can be with their families - with their children – who still need them.” Speaker after speaker paid tribute to the remarkable generosity of the people of Simcoe Muskoka who have contributed over $34 million to the hospital’s “I Believe” fundraising campaign. In addition to that money raised by the community, the City of Barrie has committed $52.5 million and the County of Simcoe has pledged $20 million.

“The support has been remarkable. From bake sales to bonspiels, people across this region have demonstrated a profound spirit of giving and unwavering faith,” said “I Believe” campaign chair David Blenkarn. “RVH is known as an incredibly compassionate hospital, and that kindness is a direct reflection of the compassionate community in which we live.” Instead of the typical sod-turning, each of the ceremony’s participants – led by children with plastic shovels and pails -- planted seedlings to symbolize the impact the expansion will have on the region for generations to come.

“It has been said that ‘the true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit,’” said Skot. “In three years, when the Phase 1 Expansion is complete, these seedlings will be ready to plant on the grounds of an expanded RVH, where they’ll provide shade and protection for generations to come.”

The Phase 1 Expansion is expected to provide a significant economic stimulus to the region as well. Vanbots, the project’s general contractor, estimates the three-year project will generate 1,000 ‘person years’ of work, with over 200 construction workers onsite everyday -- 75 per cent of whom will be local. Once complete, the hospital will hire over 1,000 additional employees.

In addition to the 400,000 square feet of new space, expected to be completed in late-2011, about 100,000 square feet of renovations will occur within the existing hospital until 2013. Also being built adjacent to the hospital is Rotary House, a residential lodge for cancer who live more than 40 kilometers outside Barrie, and a Family Medicine Teaching Unit, in partnership with the University of Toronto.

About RVH: Royal Victoria Hospital is a 299-bed community hospital in Barrie, Ontario, located 80 kilometres north of Toronto. As the largest hospital in Simcoe Muskoka, it provides specialty services to almost half a million Central Ontario residents. RVH’s team of over 200 physicians, 2,200 employees and 1,100 volunteers provide exceptional health care, specializing in emergency services, cancer care, surgical services, intensive care, mental health, interventional radiology and stroke care. RVH has embarked on a Phase 1 Expansion Project which will double the size of the existing hospital, while adding 101 new inpatient beds and the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. For more information, visit our website at www.rvh.on.ca.

Practical emergency planning advice for families

By Dr. David Butler-Jones MD, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

Emergencies can happen anywhere and anytime. They can be caused by severe
weather, disease outbreaks, food or water contamination, accidents or by
intentional acts. Right now you might be thinking more about planning your
summer vacation, but it’s important for families to talk about emergency
planning and to know what to do, and where to go, in the event of an
emergency.

Emergencies can threaten your family’s health and safety, the environment
and essential services such as transportation or telecommunications. They
can also affect your ability to access health care services and the health
care system’s ability to respond to the situation. In an emergency, local
firefighters, police, and health professionals will be on hand to manage
the situation, but there are steps that every family should take to make
sure they are better prepared to weather a crisis. These steps include
making a plan, putting together a portable and accessible emergency kit
and learning about basic ways to prevent infection.

Preparing and discussing a household emergency plan is very important,
especially considering the possibility that communications networks can
break down. Decide on a meeting place for your family in case telephone,
cell phone or email systems are not available. Identify an out-of-town
emergency contact in case you’re asked to evacuate. Post emergency numbers
by the phone and teach your children about how and when to call for help.
If you live in a house, know how to turn off the water supply, gas and
electricity. If you live in an apartment, know the locations of the
emergency exits.

Some emergencies may impact clean water supplies or your ability to leave
your home to buy food. Public Safety Canada recommends that all families
have enough supplies in their homes for at least 72 hours. Supplies should
be stored in sturdy and portable containers such as backpacks or duffle
bags. Include basics such as water (four litres of drinking water per
person per day) and non-perishable foods that don’t require refrigeration,
cooking or added water. If you have a baby, remember to pack infant
formula, bottles, baby food, diapers and wipes. First aid materials, as
well as supplies like flashlights, candles, matches, extra batteries, a
battery-operated or wind-up radio, blankets, clothing and some basic tools
(screwdriver, pliers etc.) should be included. And keep in mind that your
cordless phones probably won't work in a power outage, so be sure to have
at least one wired phone in the house.

A potential emergency that the Public Health Agency is preparing for is an
influenza pandemic. A pandemic happens when a strain of the flu virus
changes into something we've never been exposed to before, and so, aren't
immune to. In the event of an influenza pandemic or any other infectious
disease outbreak, the simplest measures can go a long way in preventing
further spread of disease. These include: good handwashing techniques;
sneezing or coughing into your sleeve or a tissue; keeping common surfaces
(door knobs, telephones) clean; staying at home and avoiding crowds when
sick; and getting your annual flu shot. For more information on infection
control, visit www.fightflu.ca or www.publichealth.gc.ca.

From the top levels of government to the family dinner table, emergency
preparedness and response is a shared responsibility. May 3-9 is National
Emergency Preparedness Week and an opportunity for all of us to learn more
about how to protect the health and safety of our families in the event of
an emergency. For more information, visit the Public Safety Canada website
at www.getprepared.ca.

Dr. David Butler-Jones is Canada's first Chief Public Health Officer and
is head of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Community Invited to Talk BAAC Arts Advisory Committee Holds Open House

Barrie – The Barrie Arts Advisory Committee (BAAC) is extending an invitation to all Barrie residents to its first Talk BAAC session, an arts and culture town hall meeting. The event is free and will take place 7 – 9 p.m. on May 4, 2009 at the Barrie Downtown Community Theatre, 1 Dunlop Street West.

Talk BAAC is an opportunity to meet the BAAC members, meet different people from the community, including those involved in the arts and culture industry, participate in constructive discussions about arts and culture in the city of Barrie, enjoy a creative showcase of local performances, and mingle with lovers of the arts.

“We want to give everyone an opportunity to share ideas and identify opportunities to improve arts and culture in the city while being entertained,” said Damian Lopes, chair of BAAC. “We see this as a great opportunity to bring together the citizens, businesses, the artists and organizations to connect and find ways to work together.”

The committee will be presenting its mandate and also sharing the first draft of a public art policy. If you can't make it to the event, BAAC has posted the public art policy to a website wiki to encourage ongoing public discussion. The committee is dedicated to being open and accessible and has set up a website www.barriearts.ca email address (info@barriearts.ca) and a voice mail box (739-4220 ext 5100).

The committee also has a Facebook Fan Page and Twitter account @barriearts.
In its first year, BAAC was formed by the City of Barrie Culture department as an arms length committee. Comprised of seven members, the committee's mission is to advocate on behalf of artists and the arts community, analyze cultural options and best practices, and advise the City of Barrie on supporting and inspiring arts and culture.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

HANDWEAVING AND SPINNING ACTIVITIES IN NEW TECUMSETH

Today we often take cloth for grant but, for thousands of years, its production was an important part of daily life. Around the world, artistans produce unique yarns and fabrics using time-honoured traditions of hand spinning and hand weaving. Today its importance can still be seen in countries such as India, where thread and cloth production by hand is still part of a tradition passed down through generations.

Next week, from May 1 to 3, over a hundred spinners and weavers will be gathering at the Nottawasaga Inn for the bi-annual Ontari Handweavers and Spinners conference. This is the first time the conference has been held in New Tecumseth. Speakers, workshops and a juried show all will be part of this conference with the theme “Fibres Unleashed: Pushing the Limits”. Over a dozen vendors will take part with products ranging from spinning wheels and yarn to books and unique buttons. The public is invited to visit the vendors and see the juried show on Saturday, May 2 from 10am to 4pm. There is an admission of $5.

The keynote speaker for the conference is Dr. Skye Morrison, designer and folklorist. Skye works 6 months of the year in India with local artisans, helping them improve their products for market. Dr. Morrison is a recipient of the Chalmers Arts Fellowship this year and she is continuing research into stories told in textiles. She has also collected a number of embroideries by women’s groups which are the body of an exhibition titled Narratage: Visions of the Twenty-first Century Stitched by Indian Women. The show is on loan from the Museum of Costume and Textiles of Quebec and will be on display at the Gibson Centre during the month of May. The opening of the exhibition will be on April 30, 7-9pm. Admission is free.

We are also very lucky to have a special visitor to the New Tecumseth area during May. Chaman Premji Vankar, a master weaver from India will be visiting the conference, demonstrating weaving and spinning. He will also be holding workshops locally. The Nottawasaga Handweavers and Spinners are proud to be able to assist with this project, the result of a grant from the Ontario Arts Council. The visit will help to foster greater understanding of the second most populous country on earth, as well as a greater understanding of the work involved in producing cloth.

There will be several opportunities during May for everyone to learn more about spinning and weaving in India, following the example of Mahatma Gandhi. In addition, schools are invited to visit the Gibson Centre to learn about how stories may be told through textiles, and to learn about spinning and weaving. Contact at the Gibson Centre is Sue Hindle, 705-435-2828


Contact information for the conference and for this email is: Sandi Neményi, sandi.nemenyi@gmail.com, 705-435-1386

Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation chosen as nominee in divine.ca’s Share the Love program

Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation chosen as nominee in divine.ca’s Share the Love program

MONTREAL, QC, April 7, 2009 – The Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation announced today it has been selected as a nominee for Share the Love, a charity support program administered by divine.ca, Canada’s Online Women’s Magazine.

Through divine.ca’s Share the Love program, The Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation has received a guaranteed minimum donation of $500, and now has the opportunity to receive an additional portion of their category’s $5,000 donation. The specific amount of additional funds to be received will be left up to the Canadian public to decide, who may vote online daily for their favourite local, national and international charities.

The final number of votes cast for divine.ca’s ‘Share the Love’ program will determine the percentage of donation funds each organization receives. This means the number of supporters who visit the ‘Share the Love’ site will have a direct impact on the donation amount to be awarded to [Your organization’s name here].

Voting for ‘Share the Love’ takes place between April 6 to May 15. The final results including the donation amount being awarded to each organization will be announced on May 25, 2009. To cast a vote or for more information about ‘Share the Love’, including a profile of The Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation, visit: www.divine.ca/sharethelove

About The Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation
Co-Founded by Kelly Shires and Suzy Stenoff in 2000, prior to Shires losing her lengthy battle with the disease. The charity was formed to provide financial assistance to breast cancer patients across the country to help alleviate the financial stress off the patients so they can focus on their health and recovery. The charity has been run for the past 10 years with the dedication of volunteers and one part time paid employee. More history on the charity can be found by visiting www.kellyshiresfoundation.org.

About Share the Love
Divine.ca, Canada’s Online Women’s Magazine, has spearheaded a charity support program in which a total of $21,000 will be donated to twelve Canadian charitable organizations whose work makes an impact in the lives of women and children. Divine.ca accepted applications during the period of February 2 to March 13. From all eligible applications received, four not-for-profit organizations for each of the local, national, and international categories were selected to be a part of Share the Love, and the twelve participating organizations were officially announced today. Also beginning today, Canadians may visit divine.ca to vote online for their favourite nominee in each of the three categories, with their votes determining the donation amount each organization will be awarded. Each nominated organization is guaranteed a minimum donation of $500, and each category has $5,000 to be divided among them. Canadians may visit www.divine.ca/sharethelove to submit their vote once per day until May 15, 2009.

Local resident rides to conquer cancer in 2009

Collingwood; April 2009 – Team Inner Balance Day Spa at Cranberry Resort of Collingwood, Ontario has committed to conquering cancer by participating in The Ride to Conquer Cancer® benefiting The Princess Margaret. They will join thousands of other men and women in a history-making ride from June 12-14, 2009. Inner Balance will take part in a two-day ride of over 200 kilometers from Toronto to Niagara Falls with a night of camping in Hamilton. Riders will support breakthrough research and the discovery of new cancer therapies at The Princess Margaret.

With one in three Canadians diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, Team Inner Balance is rallying for the cause and cycling in The Ride to Conquer Cancer benefiting The Princess Margaret, because…

We are riding in memory of a grandmother, Belle Lewis, who was killed by lymphoma, a mother lost too soon to pancreatic cancer, an aunt who has, after a long struggle filled with setbacks, seen her leukemia go into remission, and a friend that just this year lost her struggle at 36 years old. We are riding because there is strength in numbers and this is our way of stepping into battle with them.

For real impact, Team Inner Balance Day Spa at Cranberry, Lisa Wright, Mike Kelly, Leanne Wright, Bernie Wright, Michelle Woods, have set a personal fundraising goal of $15,000.00. To help them reach this goal, visit www.conquercancer.ca to make a donation online or call (416) 815-RIDE (7433).

This is the 2nd annual Ride to Conquer Cancer event in Toronto. Riders will be supported by hundreds of Volunteers and Crew Members who will provide meals, water and snack stops, gear transport, portable restrooms, safety on the streets, comprehensive medical services and an overnight campsite complete with tents, massages, and hot showers. For more information on the event please go to www.conquercancer.ca or call (416) 815-RIDE (7433). All you need is a bike, a helmet and a little motivation.

2nd Annual National Volunteer Week Community Wide Volunteer Appreciation Event

WHAT: The Gibson Centre for Community, Arts and Culture and CONTACT's
Volunteer South Simcoe are hosting their 2nd Annual Community Wide
Volunteer Appreciation Event to celebrate and recognize the invaluable
contribution of our wonderful South Simcoe Volunteers

The highlight of the event is a special performance by local high school
students who are participating in the ChangeTheWorld Ontario Youth
Volunteer Challenge in South Simcoe. These enthusiastic youth
volunteers will be participating in a "Day of Arts" at The Gibson Center
where they will work with local artists prior to the Volunteer
Appreciation Event to create and produce their own "show".

WHO: Approx. 150 Volunteers from various community organizations
throughout South Simcoe Approx. 40 Youth Volunteers
Local Artists from South Simcoe

WHEN: Sunday, April 26, 2009 * 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

ITINERARY
6 p.m. - Wine and Dessert Reception
6:45 p.m. - Photo Op. of Local Volunteers in Performance Hall
7:15 p.m. - Special Performance by Youth Volunteers (including dance,
art, music, and theatre)
**Note: Youth Volunteers will be rehearsing their performances with
local artists during the afternoon from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. prior to the
event as part of the "Day of Arts" Event. Media are also invited to
attend this event.

WHERE: The Gibson Centre for Community, Arts and Culture, 63 Tupper
Street West, Alliston, Ontario

VISUALS: Photo Op. of Volunteers in Performance Hall at 6:45 p.m., Local
Youth Volunteers Performances

BACKGROUND: National Volunteer Week is a special time set aside each
spring to recognize volunteers in our community. The Community Wide
Volunteer Appreciation Event is held every year to thank volunteers who
care enough to invest their time, their talents, and their energy to
help make South Simcoe the best community possible.

ChangeTheWorld Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge is a way for Ontario
teens to make a difference in their lives and communities through
volunteering. The "Day of Arts" is just one of a series of events that
South Simcoe youth have participated in during National Volunteer Week.
Events are designed specifically to encourage youth to take the lead in
building their communities.

The Gibson Centre for Community, Arts and Culture is an 1899 heritage
building that began its life as a factory and has been transformed into
a Centre for community, arts and culture. It offers a performance hall,
banquet facilities, art gallery, café, studio spaces, seniors centre and
more. The Gibson Centre's mission is to operate and enhance a
historically significant landmark for hosting cultural activities,
showcasing of the arts, and the cultivation of an environment which
promotes and encourages knowledge and skills in artistic pursuits.

CONTACT's Volunteer South Simcoe supports and strengthens volunteerism
in South Simcoe by engaging people in rewarding volunteer opportunities,
promoting volunteerism, and encouraging partnerships within the local
volunteer sector. Volunteer South Simcoe also aspires to teach,
support, and assist young volunteers in discovering how to be involved
in the community in a meaningful way.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

County of Simcoe Celebrates Earth Week

Residents make green bin collection a success across the region

Midhurst/ April 22, 2009– The County of Simcoe is celebrating Earth Week by recognizing residents for their exceptional participation in the curbside organics collection program in all 16 member municipalities.

“Residents are making our green bin program work and we thank them for their participation and commitment,” stated County Warden Tony Guergis. “The outstanding efforts of residents across the region have made our organics collection program even more successful than originally imagined. We are on target to reach a 60 per cent waste diversion rate this year, making Simcoe County one of a only a few municipalities to reach that goal.”

Simcoe County’s waste diversion rate has jumped to 56 per cent from 37 per cent since the organics collection and expanded recycling program launch on September 29, 2008.

“This increase is based on the first six months of the new initiatives and these numbers clearly show that we are on target to meet or exceed the projected diversion of 11,000 tonnes of organic waste per year,” stated Warden Guergis. “Congratulations to all Simcoe County residents who have embraced this program for the greater good of our environment.”

One Midland family has been doing its part to increase County diversion rates in a “Major” way. For their consistent efforts to use their green bin and divert waste from local landfills, the Major family of Midland is one of 80 households to receive “Be a Hero” prizes from the County this week. Five households were chosen by waste collectors in each municipality for their dedicated effort in the green bin program.

“We use our green bin because it is really important that each of us does our part to protect the environment,” stated Midland resident Anne Major. “I’m amazed at how much waste we can put into the green bin and it really is easy to do. I remember when I thought it would be impossible to get by with two bags of garbage every week and now our family doesn’t fill one bag most weeks.”

In an effort to encourage residents to reduce the number of plastic bags being sent to landfills, Simcoe County Environmental Services staff will be handing out reusable cloth bags at the following locations:

DATE: April 23 9:30 am to Noon

LOCATIONS:
Coldwater Foodland
Cookstown Foodland
Beeton IGA

April 24 9:30 am to Noon
Angus Sobey’s
Craighurst IGA
Tottenham Foodland

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

International Trails Day

A Morning of Guided Tours on Collingwood Trails - It's free – All you need is a Pair of Shoes!

Collingwood, ON – An International Trails Day is announced for Saturday, June 6th, 2009 scheduled from 10:00am to 1:00pm at The Station, 45 St. Paul Street Collingwood. International Trails Day is an annual Celebration of trails to promote trail development, the use of trails and the healthy lifestyle they encourage.

Sponsored by the Town of Collingwood Leisure Services Department and the Collingwood Trails Advisory Committee, the day of guided trail tours is designed to appeal to the entire family. There will be no rain date, so please dress accordingly. The guided routes, which vary in style, theme and level of difficulty, begin at The Station and will be led by trail enthusiasts, local public figures and other volunteers. Collingwood Trails Day starts at 10:00am on Saturday, June 6th. Remember to also pick up your free just released 7th edition Collingwood Trails Network Map.

One of the highlights of the International Trails Day is the 12-kilometer Train Trail Extension bike ride to the Town of Stayner and back again. Other routes include a wheelchair accessible tour of the Walk of History on the Collingwood Spit, easy paced strolls along town trails, and walks designed for young families.

The International Trails Day will be in partnership with the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts and will include their Annual Town and Country Studio Tour. This year marks their 21st Annual Artists’ Studio Tour and will include the Town of Collingwood and artists’ studios to the south and west; Craigleith, Thornbury/Clarksburg, Nottawa, Duntroon, and the Pretty River Valley. There will be 65 artists participating in approximately 25 studios, exhibiting fine art, pottery, textiles, glass, photography, jewelry, woodwork and more! For more information, be sure to check out their website at www.bmfa.on.ca.

Elephant Thoughts will be participating in the International Trails Day as well. They will have science stations for the kids to participate in various experiments. These stations will be located in the kick-off area at The Station as well as at Sunset Point Park. Elephants Thoughts is a registered Canadian charity that promotes high standards of education worldwide despite economic or geographic barriers.

In addition to the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts and Elephant Thoughts, the following partners will be setting up displays: The Environment Network, Osteoporosis Canada, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, The Blue Mountain Bruce Trails Club, Little Ed’s Ski and Bike, and the Taoist Tai-Chi Society. Also participating will be Breaking Down Barriers, The Collingwood Museum, and the Collingwood Jazz and Blues Society. We are also pleased to include the Collingwood Site organizers of the CIBC Run for the Cure.

Now a major recreational amenity in our community, the Collingwood trails are user-friendly for people of all ages and abilities. Many citizens are getting into the habit of biking or walking to go shopping or to go to work, thus cutting down on local auto emissions and promoting healthy living. Walking is being promoted as an important moderate exercise for people of all ages and abilities and helps aid the battle with obesity and depression - two growing health problems in our community.

The Collingwood Trails Network programme of giving for the trails - The Donor Gift Programme - offers a tax receipt and acknowledgement to donors that can be used to mark an important date or anniversary. A generous anonymous donation of $300,000 spread over five years has allowed the Collingwood Trails Advisory Committee to create the Heather Pathway that when completed will unite the trails into one large trail system. The Collingwood Trails Network is growing into a world class trail destination and an important tourist attraction for the Town and local business.

The Collingwood Trails Network Committee has built a trail system of forested walk ways, in-town bike lanes and lake-side look outs making Collingwood a recreational Mecca for those who wish to ride or walk in the summer months, or cross country ski or snowshoe when the snow flies.

April 19 to 26 is National Organ & Tissue Donation Awareness Week

Barrie, April 21, 2009

MPP Aileen Carroll hosted an Open House at her new constituency office at 20 Bell Farm Road on Friday April 17th.

Ms. Carroll kicked off NOTDAW at the Open House. Green ribbons, symbolizing the promise of lives that may be saved or improved through organ and tissue donation, and information on organ donation were available.

“I encourage everyone to register as a potential donor. The gift of life is the most precious gift you may ever give”, said Barrie MPP Aileen Carroll. “There are approximately 1700 Ontarians currently on a waiting list for organ donation. Tragically, some of them die - waiting.”

The Government of Ontario has recently made it easier for Ontarians to be donors:

1. Ontarians have the opportunity to consent to organ and tissue donation when they renew their health cards. When you register or renew your health card at a Service Ontario Office, you will be advised that only a “YES” to organ and tissue donation is being collected and stored in the OHIP database.

2. Our $4 million Organ Donation Strategy includes the establishment of a program to reimburse expenses of living organ donors for reasonable, out-of-pocket expenses and lost income associated with their organ donation.

3. The province has recently introduced legislation that would, if passed, amend the Employment Standards Act to provide unpaid job-protected leave for employees who donate certain organs to another individual.

"Tissue and Organ donation makes sense, and it works. Sign your donor care and tell your family”, said Dr Rick Irvin, Lead Palliative Physician, North Simcoe-Muskoka Regional Cancer Program, and Chair of the Honourary Board Capital Campaign Hospice Simcoe. “Your gift will help your family with their grief knowing they have followed your wishes to give an organ/tissue donation, to make a difference."


Melanie Taylor is the recipient of a donated kidney. She is a former patient of Royal Victoria Hospital. She writes:

My name is Melanie Taylor and I started peritoneal dialysis on April 1, 1999. At first I thought it was a cruel April Fool's Day joke, but if so, it was to last for seven years.

In June 2003, I was a patient at Royal Victoria Hospital and met some wonderful staff and volunteers. I found Barrie's hospital to be "State of the Art" and was very fortunate to have your nephrologist, Dr.Benjamin seeing to my care.

Shortly after returning home (I live in Whitby, but most of my family lives in the Barrie area), I was told that I would have to start hemodialysis. I then attended at Whitby Hospital for three years, three times a week.

I received a phone call in 2006 telling me that I was to go to St.Michael's Hospital--there was a kidney waiting for me. My whole life changed with that call. Not a single day goes by that I do not think about my donor, and their family. Their gift gave me a total life change! I never knew what a difference it could make.

In January of this year, I was visiting my family and once again found myself in Royal Victoria Hospital. Dr. Turtaro put a request in for Dr. Benjamin to see me, and once again I received excellent care from all the staff. I was found to have a kidney infection and as a kidney transplant recipient, this can be really frightening. The doctors and nurses were very reassuring. And while there are no guarantees, I do my best to continue to keep my Faith in God and a positive attitude. The memory of my donor and his or her family are also very near and dear to me and I am forever grateful to them and The Trillium Gift of Life Program.

If you would like to learn more about Trillium Gift of Life Network, please visit, www.giftoflife.on.ca or call 1-800-263-2833.

County of Simcoe Congratulates 911 Public Safety Communicator

Midhurst/ April 16, 2009 – The Simcoe County 911 Management Board Tri-Service Communicator of the Year Award Ceremony was held today in Simcoe County. The County of Simcoe congratulates winner Caron Smith who received the award from Warden Tony Guergis.

A Communicator with the Barrie Police Service for four years, Caron was nominated by her peers for demonstrating exceptional professionalism and consistently rising above and beyond the expectations of her role.

“I congratulate Caron on this incredible achievement and I would like to personally thank her for her continuing dedication to ensuring the public safety of our residents,” stated Warden Guergis. “I would also like to recognize all public safety communicators working in our fire, paramedic and police services across the region. These individuals play a vital role in our communities each and every day. Their service is truly an example of a successful partnership that extends beyond community borders. It’s not about which emergency service the individual represents, it’s about serving our communities and working together as service providers for the greater good of all residents in Simcoe County, Barrie and Orillia.”

The committee received seven nominations for 2008. In addition to demonstrating a positive attitude and work ethic, each nominee also handled at least one life threatening call or extraordinary incident that required initiative and creativity. Caron’s quick action was credited with saving the life of a man in Japan last summer. She received a call from the man’s concerned friend who called Barrie Police Service for help. Caron worked with the individual’s parents who live in Barrie, translators, Interpol and Japanese authorities to locate the patient who was unconscious when police and paramedics arrived. He was transported to hospital where he recovered.

The following nominees were also recognized at Thursday’s ceremony:
• Carrie Adams, Georgian Central Ambulance Communications Centre - handled multiple calls for a complex multi-vehicle (more than 50 vehicles) accident on Hwy 400 in January 2008
• Mary Anne Cousineau, Barrie Fire & Emergency Service - handled a call for an early morning attic fire – residents were sleeping
• Nicola Mitchell, Georgian Central Ambulance Communications Centre - handled a 3-hour call for a serious collision between a car and a Barrie transit bus
• Eric Tomkinson, Georgian Central Ambulance Communications Centre - handled a call for a patient unconscious and provided life-saving instructions to the caller
• The Barrie Fire & Emergency Service Communications Team was also recognized with awards presented to supervisors Wendy Camber and Julie Daer

“These individuals are community heroes and it is an honour for me to recognize them today on behalf of the County, our residents and the Simcoe County 911 Management Board,” concluded the Warden.

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

AUTHORS ARE GIVING THOUSANDS OF BOOKS AWAY TO GET EVERYONE WORKING

WINDSOR, ON – March 27, 2009 (Press Release) Authors Jennifer and Theo Rallis announced the release of Ugly Resumes Get Jobs – And Other Fishing Lessons (www.uglyresumes.com). In their innovative job search guide, the Rallis’ not only provide job seekers with a backstage pass to the world of recruiting but are also giving thousands of books away!

The Rallis’ are calling on Corporate America to help their displaced workers and will match corporate purchases one for one. “There are no conditions or restrictions on corporate orders. Even if GM were to call us tomorrow and ask for 40,000 guides we would gladly match their contribution. In this economy more so than ever, people need to be altruistic. It’s not about looking the other way or turning off your TV and hoping this will all get better. It takes action on everyone’s part!” said Theo.

“The sad truth is that most job seekers don’t stand a fighting chance in today’s job market. Being good at what you do isn’t enough”, said Jennifer Rallis. “Cost cutting initiatives, ATS’ and out-dated resume formats are preventing thousands of job hunters from ever getting their resume reviewed by a hiring manager. One of the reasons young adults and graduates get jobs before more experienced veterans is
their abilities to leverage web technologies and gain visibility.” Ugly Resumes Get Jobs shows job seekers how to do this and eliminate many hurtles applicants face in this over competitive technology driven market.

“People need a jumpstart not just a kick out the front door!” said Theo. “It’s corporately irresponsible to assume that someone who has not been actively looking for employment within the past five years will understand all of today’s resume challenges. When did watching the bottom line eliminate the need for corporate decency?”

About The Authors:
Jennifer Rallis is CEO and Co-Founder of CORPX, a direct placement, technical recruiting firm. With nearly ten years recruiting experience for various sectors including: hospitality, banking, engineering and telecom; she has accrued an impressive list of customers from technology start-ups to Fortune 500 organizations. As an Alumnus of the University of Guelph, Jennifer began a notable career in banking then pursued her true passion, recruiting, where she has helped thousands of rofessionals advance their careers. In Ugly Resumes Get Jobs, Jennifer shares the inside secrets of the recruiting world with candidates who want to gain the competitive advantage in the race to their next great job.

Theo Rallis is a Process Consultant and Co-Founder of BM Imports. Armed with two degrees from Laurentian University and New Brunswick College and the motto “work smarter, not harder”, Theo has spent more than a decade assisting Fortune 500 Manufacturers and SMBs adopt and leverage new engineering, design, manufacturing and information management software. For the past four years he has created and closed large solution opportunities by process mapping new technologies to client business initiatives. In Ugly Resumes Get Jobs, Theo applies the same principals and processes used by large corporations to achieve efficiency to the job search process. Not only has Theo developed the system, he has successfully used it to create several rewarding career opportunities.

For more information about the book or authors, visit www.uglyresumes.com.

Book Details:
ISBN: 144148003X
EAN -13: 9781441480033
Price: $21.95
Available for purchase: www.amazon.com
Media Contact:
Coralie Harrison
Email: coralie@uglyresumes.com

Monday, April 6, 2009

MP Brown Convinces Parliament to Study Doctor Recruitment

At MP Patrick Brown’s urging, the Standing Committee on Health will be engaging in a national study during the months of April and May of this year. The committee will then make recommendations to the Minister of Health and Parliament.

On November 29th, 2005 when MP Brown was first elected to Parliament, he promised to shed a national focus on Doctor Recruitment. Since that time he has toured every medical school at least twice, set up a scholarship fund, assisted on the RVH’s medical school project, put forth a private members bill on incentives for physicians and has now convinced Parliament to embark on the first serious study on physician shortages.

Physician recruitment is an issue close to MP Brown’s heart ever since his days on Barrie City Council. As a Councilor, Brown represented Barrie as a member of the physician recruitment task force and continually championed the City to help further fund the task force.

A few notable Barrie advocates will serve as witnesses for the Parliamentary study. Christie Cadotte (physician recruiter), Dr. Brad Dibble (former task force co-chair) and Stu Murdoch (Dean of RVH Medical School) are amongst the one hundred expert witnesses from all over Canada being invited to participate.

In support of Doctor Recruitment, M.P. Brown is holding his 3rd annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 25th from 10-11:30 am at the Royal Canadian Legion (410 St. Vincent Street in Barrie). Tickets are $5 per person and all are welcome to attend!

Friday, April 3, 2009

CANADA AND ONTARIO INVEST IN A SECOND BARRIE GO TRANSIT STATION

BARRIE — GO Transit commuters in Barrie will benefit from a $3-million investment in a new GO Transit station in downtown Barrie, Patrick Brown, Member of Parliament for Barrie, and Ms. Aileen Carroll, Member of Provincial Parliament for Barrie, announced today.

“Projects such as this one will help increase economic growth and improve service for commuters in Barrie,” said Patrick Brown. “This investment in public transit will improve the local economy and improve Canada’s lasting legacy. This was a promise I made during the last election campaign and I am tremendously proud to see it come to fruition.”

“A second GO station will add an increased level of service for commuters,” said Ms. Carroll. “I’m so pleased that commuter rail service has been so well received in Barrie and we are able to continue to grow to meet the needs of commuters.”

“These investments in public transit will give people more time with their families while also creating jobs and making a real difference to the communities GO serves,” said Canada’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, John Baird. “We’re getting people moving, and the economy going.”

“Ontario is investing in public transit to combat congestion and climate change and to make transit more convenient so more people leave their cars at home,” said Ontario’s Transportation Minister, Jim Bradley. “Supporting public transit creates jobs that help boost the economy.”

The Allandale Station will be the second train station in Barrie. Design is expected to start in summer 2009 and construction to run from 2010 to 2011. This new station will provide a new travel option for GO customers from the Barrie area.

The Government of Canada is setting aside up to $1.5 million for this project. This project is one of several GO Transit service improvements across the Greater Toronto Area announced today as part the $500 million in joint federal and provincial funding for GO service improvements originally announced Tuesday, February 17, 2009, by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.