Views and thoughts of aboriginal teachers working at the Canadian schools

Hello,
I would like to share the following research. I found the thoughts of aboriginal teachers inspiring.
http://www.nald.ca/library/research/ccl/study_aboriginal_teachers/study_aboriginal_teachers.pdf

Announcing Puppet Gathering in Hobbema, Alberta on May 23 and 24

If you are interested in making puppets, or displaying your puppets or doing puppet shows or using puppets for storytelling or to communicate then please visit the following page http://puppetgathering2012.blogspot.com/

Fw: books vs screens

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/books-vs-screens-which-should-your-kids-be-reading/article2268465/

http://news.nationalpost.com/2011/12/12/literacy-scores-rise-as-reading-for-fun-drops-study/

Manisha Khetarpal
Librarian
Miyo Wahkohtowin Community Education Authority
(Ph) 780-585-3760

Puppet Gathering 24 May 2012.

Call for Submissions - 2012 Alberta Book Publishing Awards

The Book Publishers Association of Alberta is now accepting submissions for the 2012 Alberta Book Publishing Awards. These awards celebrate excellence in book publishing in Alberta. We look forward to your entries and participation in the 2012 Awards. This year we are pleased to invite applications for the following awards: Book of the Year, in 6 categories—Children and Young Adult, Educational, Trade Fiction, Trade Non-Fiction, Scholarly and Academic and the Robert Kroetsch Poetry Book of the Year Award;

Book Design, in 3 categories—Book, Book Cover, and Illustration;
Lois Hole Award for Editorial Excellence, recognizing outstanding editorial work;
Alberta Book Publishing Achievement Award, recognizing long-standing contributions made to Alberta book publishing;
Alberta Emerging Publisher; and
Alberta Publisher of the Year.

 The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 27, 2012. Contact the BPAA office at (780) 424-5060, mmclaughlin@bookpublishers.ab.ca

Society for Childrens bookwriters and illustrators

https://southern-breeze.net/

November is Picture Book month celebration

http://picturebookmonth.com/media-kit/

November 20 is UN's Universal Childrens Day.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children's_Day

So, you want to get your work published: Try Full Circle Literacy boutique approach !

Full Circle Literary works with a variety of creative prescriptive and narrative nonfiction books, literary fiction for adults and teens, as well as middle grade and children's picture books. Read more at http://www.fullcircleliterary.com/index.htm

Literacy first in families - idea 1 Sticks

My son stacked his markers one top of each other in a stick.  We used this stick to play a Support a Grandpa Readers Theatre activity and then we played a fencing game. Read more

Free childrens books

First Book Canada www.firstbookcanada.org

Andrew's Books http://www.andrewsbooks.ca/the_project/

Childrens Book Banks Toronto http://www.childrensbookbank.com/

mailto:info@childrensbookbank.com

Counselling Foundation of Canada grants

One of the goals: To encourage and support programs which contribute to healthy child development especially for those groups of parents and children known to be at greatest risk.

Example: Read to Me in Micmac and Pathways to Education  http://www.counselling.net/jnew/grants/case-studies.html

Order of priority: Toronto, Ontario and Canada

Contact: Bruce Lawson at 416 923 8953

Website: http://www.counselling.net/

Stepping stones and neighbour grants

Stepping stones and neighbour grants are part of the Calgary Foundations vision of citizens engaged in community building at all levels.

Examples: Pathways Freindship Round Dance, Inglewood Design Initiative,Parkland Community Garden Build, Goodlife Community Bike Shop, Teens in the Lead, South Calgary Multicultural Festival, and Patrick Airlie School Mural.

Category: Grassroots

Website: thecalgaryfoundation.org

Education Partnerships Program

The Education Partnerships Program is part of an overarching commitment of the Government of Canada to set the foundation for long-term reform of First Nations education. A key component of the broader Reforming First Nations Education Initiative, this proposal-driven program is designed to promote collaboration between First Nations, provinces, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), and other stakeholders towards improving the success of First Nation elementary and secondary students in First Nation and provincial schools.
The Program supports the establishment and advancement of formal partnership arrangements that aim to develop practical working relationships between officials and educators in regional First Nation organizations and schools, and those in provincial systems. These partnership arrangements open the way to sharing information and better coordination between First Nation and provincial schools. The result will be concrete benefits for the students, teachers and administrators involved.
Funding is available on a proposal basis to eligible regional First Nation organizations for:

• the negotiation and drafting of tripartite education Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) and joint action plans where they do not already exist (partnership establishment); and,
• the drafting and implementation of joint action plans within established partnerships where there is an MOU or similar formal partnership agreement already in place (partnership advancement).

If required, the Program may provide a regional First Nation organization with a limited amount of funding for up to one year for preliminary consultation.
To learn more about the Education Partnerships Program, you may be interested in the following:

• Call for Proposals

http://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/eng/1100100033760/1100100033761

The deadline for submissions to the Alberta Literary Awards is December 31, 2011

The Writers Guild of Alberta Gears Up for the 2012 Alberta Literary Awards

The Writers Guild of Alberta (WGA) is preparing to celebrate another successful year with the 2012 Alberta Literary Awards.  Writers from across Alberta are invited to check out and submit to this year’s award categories.  The deadline for submissions to the Alberta Literary Awards is December 31, 2011.

Submissions are evaluated on originality, creativity, and quality of writing, as well as appropriate fit within a category.  The winners will be announced at the 2012 Alberta Book Awards Gala in Calgary in the spring.  The Alberta Literary Awards will be presented in conjunction with the Book Publishers Association of Alberta’s (BPAA) Alberta Book Publishing Awards and Edmonton Public Library’s Alberta Readers’ Choice Award.

The Alberta Literary Awards were created by the Writers Guild of Alberta in 1982 to recognize excellence in writing by Alberta authors. Prizes of $1500 are awarded to published entries in the following categories:
R. Ross Annett Award for Children’s Literature (picture books)
Georges Bugnet Award for Fiction
Wilfrid Eggleston Award for Nonfiction
Stephan G. Stephansson Award for Poetry
Gwen Pharis Ringwood Award for Drama (published or produced)

In addition, four prizes of $700 are awarded to unpublished and published entries in the following categories:
Amber Bowerman Memorial Travel Writing Award (unpublished)
James H. Gray Award for Short Nonfiction (unpublished or published)
Howard O'Hagan Award for Short Story (published)
Jon Whyte Memorial Essay Prize (unpublished or published)

The Writers Guild of Alberta is a non-profit organization that represents both professional and emerging writers in Alberta.  Their mission is to inspire, connect, support, encourage and promote writers and writing, to safeguard the freedom to write and to read, and to advocate for the well-being of writers.

For more information and submission guidelines, please visit http://www.writersguild.ab.ca/

Te Tai Tamariki Trust-meaning the tide of children

Te Tai Tamariki

- meaning the tide of children - is a registered charitable trust, founding in May 2006. The Trust has been set up
to preserve and promote New Zealand children's literature.
New Zealand has produced many world renowned authors, artists and illustrators over the decades, and more recently has
shown leadership in the use of new technologies and media to communicate story. It is the original manuscripts, illustrations
and other media of these New Zealanders that we want to protect and promote for the future. The Trust will continue to
both promote and collect children's literature (broadly defined), in a variety of media from books to digital forms.
At present, there is no central body focusing on the collection, restoration, preservation and exhibition of such material, and
it is feared that it will be lost if action is not taken. Te Tai Tamariki's vision is to create a national centre – with its base in
Christchurch – that will encourage a wide range of groups to enjoy and celebrate New Zealand's children's literature. The
physical centre will be multi-faceted, with a wide variety of purposes including entertainment, education, research and
retail. Such centres have already been established overseas as both domestic and international tourist attractions as well as
educational centres. The concept plan for this national centre can be read here.
While still in its early days, the vision of Te Tai Tamariki is fast gaining the support of both the literary world and the general public.

http://www.tetaitamariki.org.nz/NZ%20Post.htm

Grade 2 and 6 students celebrate Remembrance Day

Grade 2 students read a book We Remember and wrote a story about their heroes.  Mr. Reader did a presentation for the Grade 6 students, read letters written during World War 2, advertisements, comfort boxes, recognized their FN war veterans, and email letters to Canadian Armed Forces serving abroad. Read more and view the pictures at http://schoollibraryservices.blogspot.com/

AFA Individual Artists Project Grant Program Application Deadline Update

AFA Individual Artists Project Grant Program Application Deadline Update The AFA has moved the winter deadline for the Individual Artists Project Grant Program to February 1, commencing in 2012.  The fall deadline remains September 1.  Please visit www.affta.ab.ca/individual-project-grant-program.aspx to see up-to-date Guidelines and Application form information.

Aboriginal literacy

Join us at the Aboriginal literacy http://aboriginal-literacy2011.ca/  on November 1 & 2 in Winnipeg.

Artist in Residence grant for schools.

Information on the Artists and Education Program can be found at

http://www.affta.ab.ca/artists-and-education.aspx

For assistance and additional information on the Artists and Education grant stream please contact Paul Reich, Arts Development Consultant with the Arts Branch, at (780) 415-0287 (toll-free in Alberta by first dialing 310-0000).

Apply for the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation Grant

If your school identifies as high-needs, if you are passionate about literacy and if you believe your students and the greater community would benefit from a Love of Reading grant then continue reading.

Love of Reading schools receive funding over a three-year period. For each of the three years, the school receives 10 per cent of the funds in the form of cash to spend on any special projects they believe will promote literacy: after-school activity groups; visits by special guest speakers and artists; anything that promotes a love of reading. They receive the remaining 90 per cent of the grant in the form of a credit redeemable for new books and learning materials at Indigo, Chapters and Coles book stores.

The 2012 Literacy Fund grant application is available in October.  Download the application from http://www.loveofreading.org/

Excellence in Literacy Foundation (ELF) grant in the areas of training and materials

The ELF offers small grants (typically $1000 - $2000) in order to assist schools and community organizations with program support for literacy activities. Funds may be used for salary, classroom materials or books. Applications are judged on a competitive basis. The ELF can grant only to Canadian schools and organizations. Granting priority is given to schools and organizations working with the ELF in the areas of training and/or materials.
http://www.excellenceinliteracy.org/grants.html

Call for Proposals for the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) Pan Canadian funding deadline to apply is November 25

This is to advise you that the Call for Proposals for the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) Pan Canadian funding has now been posted on the Internet.  The deadline to apply is November 25, 2011.
Funding for larger pan-Canadian grant or contribution projects can provide support for networking, developing and delivering education and awareness activities, and creating tools and resources to help seniors protect themselves from elder abuse including fraud and financial abuse. The funding can also enable community members to better recognize elder abuse in all its forms and to improve the quality of life, safety and security of seniors.
Pan-Canadian projects identify and share promising practices across the country on what has worked well to address seniors' issues and can be replicated.
Eligible Pan-Canadian projects must have broad reach and impact, and can be funded for up to three years.
Projects:
*       may address a provincial/territorial or regional need or address needs shared by communities across Canada;
*       recognize and address challenges faced by different communities in different regions;
*       produce products that can be used, adapted and or replicated across Canada; and
*       involve participation from partners/stakeholders from different regions across Canada/or from within the project region.
For more information about this Call for Proposals please see the attached link.
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/community_partnerships/seniors/nhsp/pcp/index.shtml
*Please note that this is a nationally-administered program so questions and inquiries should be directed to the general inquiry line listed on the site.

Deadline for the Grants to Aboriginal Dance Professionals is November 1, 2011

AFA Newswire
http://www.affta.ab.ca/
October 20, 2011


Canada Council for the Arts - Dance Section

Enclosed is a reminder of the upcoming deadline for the Grants to Aboriginal Dance Professionals on November 1, 2011.

Applications and support material must be postmarked no later than the deadline.
If the date falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, the deadline moves to the next
business day. Please note that no extension of the deadline will be granted.

Guidelines and application forms are currently available from the section
or on our website. Please review the program guidelines carefully before completing the application, even if you are already familiar with the program. Some modifications to the program have been made. 

www.canadacouncil.ca/grants/dance/nb128321100968391227.htm
 
It is very important to receive a complete application postmarked no later than November 1, 2011.The Dance Section will not accept incomplete applications -- including all required support material, e.g. video.  Support letters must be included with your completed application and postmarked by November 1st as noted in the guidelines or the application will be considered incomplete.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure Support letters are sent with the application.  We will not call for missing material.  Incomplete applications are ineligible and will not be reviewed by the committee.

The Canada Council for the Arts would like to remind you of the Final Report Policy.

Applicants will not be eligible to apply to the Canada Council for further assistance until all final reports on all completed projects have been submitted to the Canada Council and approved by the program officer. This also applies to any other final reports due to programs in other Sections of the Council. This means that any new applications to the Canada Council will not be accepted if you have any overdue reports.

If you are planning to apply to one of our upcoming deadlines, please ensure that all previous reports have been received in all Sections concerned.

It is important to note we will not accept final reports that are sent with a new application. All reports are to be mailed separately and in advance of the deadline. The policy states that all final reports are to be received and approved before we receive a new application.  We will not accept final reports by email or by fax.

If you need to make an extension to your project end date, please fill out the Final Report Due Date Extension Form, which can be found on our website:
www.canadacouncil.ca/grants/pu127833843803190035.htm

Geraldine Manossa
Dance Program Officer
Canada Council for the Arts
1 800 263-5588, or (613) 566-4414 (ext. 5501)
geraldine.manossa@canadacouncil.ca


Canadian Public Art Funders presents Equity within the Arts Ecology: Traditions and Trends

Canadian Public Art Funders (CPAF) brings you a new research report Equity within the Arts Ecology: Traditions and Trends. The objectives of the research report were intended to provide an overview, through a literature review and environmental scan, of current knowledge and surrounding context on the theme of “equity within the arts ecology” in order to better understand how equity is defined, understood, implemented and measured within the Canadian arts ecology, as well as within a broader international arts context; and Identify key gaps or questions for future research. This report was prepared by Ashok Mathur and the Centre for Innovation in Culture and the Arts in Canada (CICAC) for the CPAF Strategic Development Meeting on Equity on June 13-14, 2011.

Establish a public library on reserve land

What is your opinion about establishing a community library offering literacy programs, computer training, puppet shows and a cultural art cafe?   The proposal is posted on the following page.

 http://setuppubliclibrarywithfncommunity.blogspot.com/

I would like to invite your input.

Manisha
780 352 1633
manishacommunications@gmail.com

First Books gives away free books to children from low income families

Teachers, librarians, and literacy coordinators and friends of the books please register at http://www.firstbookcanada.org/

Join us at our provincial literacy symposium

Literacy Alberta, the Community Learning Network and the Centre for Family Literacy are pleased to invite you to attended the 2011 Literacy & Learning Symposium.

This province-wide professional development symposium focuses on literacy and lifelong learning as a tool for positive change. The symposium will take place in Calgary at the Radisson Hotel Calgary Airport October 19-21, 2011.

To learn more, visit http://www.literacyalberta.ca/symposium/

PALS training on October 13-14

I attended the PALS training in British Columbia from October 13 to 14.  PALS stands for Parents as Literacy Supporters. Fiona Morrison is a fantastic facilitator. The different modules of the training and the actual pilot program session were hosted in different places in the community; thus demonstrating a fantastic  Team in Action and plus showcase their 'working style' in a rhythm. I attended the PALS general training session at the daycare and early childhood development centre. The aPALS (aboriginal cultural component) at the Aborignal Headstart program delivery centre. The iPALS (immigrant component) pilot program delivery organized by the college for the Vietnamese community at the library. I liked the dual language learning approach. I also found creating literacy artifacts a very interesting process and finally the take home books and literacy kits by families.

I observed that the literacy sector is so active in promoting reading and encouraging people to visit the libraries. Also, explaining the library procedures such as fines, how to get a library cards and actually taking groups of people for libray tours.

Each of these organizations were kind enough to give me a tour of their facilities, share their projects plus programs, and challenges. I enjoyed listening to their success stories. I liked the 'Safe Program' in place. I was amazed at the BC Immigration Integration team and their support towards promoting family and adult literacy. Thank you Brisitsh Columbia Literacy Team for welcoming me and for being a perfect host.

Understanding the FASD framework and the support system in communities

I attended the training delivered by Donna Debolt in Camrose on September 28 and 29.  I learned that the FASD community needs voices because for some children the placement turnover with foster families is high.  The take out were the following words - Training, Coaching, Grief and Loss; and Respite. Create competency/skills and strengthen connections. Donna Debolt is knowledegable and  delivers information in a simple easy to understand manner.

Enhancing Industry Engagement by Maskwacis Employment Center on Sept 27

The Enhancing Industry Engagement was organized by Maskwacis Employment Centre (MEC).  I learned about  the First Nations culture of hearing voices, the contribution of FN communities to enrich our land, kinship and help to families, plus support system in place, and respect for elders. Hobbema my dear friends is the Free Trade Zone of Alberta and is full of opportunities. MEC helps employers and the FN people. Call them right now if you are looking for employees to join your team. MEC has a real time database of trained workforce ready to work!


I applied some of the learning to the following proposal to set up a library, literacy services, computer training and a cultural art cafe in Hobbema.


http://setuppubliclibrarywithfncommunity.blogspot.com/2011/10/proposal-to-set-up-public-library-in.html


Call me at 780 352 1633 or contact by email  at librarieshelppeople@gmail.com if you are interested in joining the planning committee.

High energy presentation by Monica Knight on September 26

Thank you Chamber of Commerce and Alberta Works for bringing Monica Knight to our community. Wow! she is a fantastic speaker using music and dance as a tool to demonstrate setting expectations and change management. I enjoyed listening to the presentation and the lunch. The workshop after the lunch was fantastic. The group activities were awesome and had so many messages. Our group did Wally the Warthog activity. Then, the mini golf bowling activity energized me. I scored the goal following Monica's principles; the right expectations, goals and the right tools. We changed the ball, bat, and team roles.

I came out of the workshop charged, energized, refreshed and felt fantastic!  Call me and I will share Monicas principles and help your organization and staff achieve 200% balance in life and work.

Manisha Khetarpal

ECMAP meeting at Parentlink at 2:30 p.m.

I am part of the Tech Committee and I provided marketing suggestions for Parentlink Centers. I think Parentlink is a  'safe place' for parents to socialize and learn from each other as well as from guest speakers and programs planned by Parentlink staff. I am proud to introduce Lisa our Community Capacity developer at Parentlink.

Victoria our regional Capacity Coordinator from Volunteer Alberta launched Knowledge Connector

Participants came from the Reynolds Alberta Museum, Millet Museum, Alberta Health Services, and Camrose's Prarire Central Network.

Interagency meeting, September 21, 9 am

I attended the interagency meeting at the Norquest College. I promoted the author readings, Alberta Arts days events, Freedom of Expression travelling exhibit, video conferences, all our programs and services. As usual, I networked with the community organizations. Then, I invited all the participants to come to the library for the Lunch n Learn Open House and launch of Volunteer Alberta's Knowledge Connector service.

Presentation at the Genealogical Society

I did a presentation about library services and programs at the Genealogical Society meeting on September 20th from 7-8 p.m.. I enjoyed meeting the 12 members and guests. The members were knowledgeable and experts on genealogical resources. I was given a tour of their library. Participants were from Hobbema, Pigeon Lake and Wetaskiwin. I am planning to attend the genealogical workshop on October 29th. I invited all the members to come to the library and I could do a demonstration for Heritage Quest, Mango language learning software and downloadable ebooks.

And, on my way back my friend who is a teacher was coming back from her yoga class and she gave me a ride and we explored ways in which I could visit her class and do puppet shows about bullying plus Festival of Lights presentation.

Let's make books together workshop on Sunday, October 2 at the library

Read more at http://albertaartsdayslibraries2011.blogspot.com/

Environment resources from the library display, Bag-it Screening at the Reynolds Alberta Museum

Essential Skills celebration and door prize draw on September 24

Workplace education helps provide a foundation for lifelong learning as people and businesses grow together. Literacy and essential skills are at the core of workplace education. Improving workers' skills creates a more productive workforce, a more competitive economy, and an improved bottom line.
 
Reading is a essential skill.
 
We will be giving away books at the grocery shopping centres, schools, parks and in the community during September 19-24.

   

Celebrate Essential Skills Day and support workplace education in your organization!

Read more at:

• What's happening at the public library http://essentialskillshomecommunitywork.blogspot.com/


• What is happening at the national level  http://abclifeliteracy.ca/workplace_literacy/home

Migrant Routes workshop at the library on September 15

View more pictures at http://migrantroutesworkshopsept15.blogspot.com/

Communicating with First Nations People workshop in Hobbema

Today, I attended the communication workshop in Hobbema. I learned about eye contact, FN people do not complaint and don't like to brag. I was informed about FNs rituals, traditions and celebrations. The barriers such as transition from reserve to city were explained. Some tips were given such as 'Inform your employees'.  FN people have good listening skills as it is part of their culture to listen to stories and the teachings at ceremonies. The family ties and kinship are important and the family structure was explained.

FASD display

FASD Gathering

The event began with serving Mocktails. Stacey presented information about FASD, Heather shared her experience working with her coworkers having FASD, Dominique facilitated the Wheel of Fortune activity, Floyd and his sister and Misty shared their stories. Floyd cracked a egg in a glass of alcohol and showed that after some time the egg became like rubber demonstrating the effect of alcohol on the baby growing in the womb. The finger food was provided by Horizons Centre and the supplies for mocktails by Baker Funeral home.  The chief guest was Alderman Joe Branco. Thw winner of the door prize was Sheila Cole from Catholic Social Services. View pictures at http://fasdday9september2011.blogspot.com/

17 people actively participated at the intercultural communications workshop

Read more at http://interculturalcommunications5thsept8th.blogspot.com/

Wordy eating words at the Library booth (Parade of Programs Sept 7)

View pictures at http://paradeofprograms7september2011.blogspot.com/

Intercultural communications feedback

I found the intercultural communications workshop to be informative and useful. In particular, I found the information about Canadian and newcomer perceptions about each other to be frank and eye-opening and I the tips and suggestions will be very useful regarding fostering and managing organizational diversity.

Thanks!

Narmin

RCMP Recruitment - Edmonton

Read more at http://interculturalcommunications5thsept8th.blogspot.com/

Letter of Support

The Wetaskiwin Public Library is applying for the New Horizons for Seniors Program federal grant for 2012.  The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) is a federal grants program that supports projects led or inspired by seniors who make a difference in the lives of others and in their communities.  The program supports projects addressing the following objectives:

 

·       promoting volunteerism among seniors and other generations;

·       engaging seniors in the community through the mentoring of others;

·       supporting the social participation and inclusion of seniors.

 

 

The funds will be used by the Wetaskiwin Public Library in the following ways:

 

·       purchasing resources for the homebound service delivery program

·       arranging for transport expenses for seniors to attend the programs at the library

·       cover expenses for guest speaker presentation series

 

I am requesting for a letter of support to go along with our application that is due on Monday, September 12

 

Manisha

Library booth at the Parade of Programs: registration and informing our citizens about the learning and networking possibilities

Library staff Lisa and Lynne promoting activley promoted library services.  Visitors at our booth were from 2 to 80 year olds inquiring about Tales for Twos, puppet shows, Mother Goose, FASD Mocktails gathering, videoconferencing, essential skills draw, Adventures in Art, and the Alberta Arts Days.   

View more pictures at http://paradeofprograms7september2011.blogspot.com/

Volunteered at TALES Storytelling Festival

I enjoyed volunteering at the TALES festival at Fort Edmonton Park. The theme was 'River of Dreams.'  It was marvelous to meet storytellers and see them integrate different types of voice projection techniques, theater, song, music, and their tools. I was amazed at the story sticks, frogs with musical sounds, and props such as tales and hears. I helped putting away the food. I was a volunteer for one of the sites and I kept  a tally of visitors and I requested people in the nearby areas to come and visit the session.

Capacity building by networking with our Museum

I helped the Wetaskiwin Heritage Museum with a brain storming session with ideas to write the grant proposal.  I coached and mentored tills, timeline to write the Seniors grant. The library will provide a support letter.  The library will support some of the projects of the Museum as they unfold.

I planted the seed for the Human Library at the Museum. The museum has the primary information and many of their exhibits are of international standards. I shared information about Alberta Arts Days.

Sylvia Larson, board member and volunteer at the museum advised me when I came to Wetaskiwin in 2010 to, 'Go out to people,'  That's what I did and it is a satisfying and fulfilling experience serving and working with my community. Read my service framework by visting the following page http://creatingcommunitybysharing.blogspot.com/

September is Library Card Sign Up month: Presentation at Touchstone Place

Today, I did a presentation at Touchstone Place about our services. I began the presentation with;

1. How a resident can get a library card
2. Distributed posters, handouts and flyer's
3. Rules and regulations for computer use
4. Social network and gatherings
5. Demonstration of Overdrive ebooks (Project Gutenberg)
6. The posed the question, 'Why is the library organizing FASD Gathering on September 9?'

The response from my particpants was, 'Library is reaching out. That's great. We like it.'

My audience was 10-12 people with a above average IQ. The participants shared with me information about different types of mental health conditions. The members shared with me the different places they had traveled in their life. Some were from BC and some from Alberta. They told me about their past work. Some had traveled to Japan, Florida, and Jamaica. A person had taught English language as a volunteer for more than 25 years. This participant told me that he tried to teach the language with the things the student is familar with and told me about 'pinjiri.'   This a traditional dish cooked in northern India with whole wheat, nuts, many healthy ingredients cooked in ghee.

We all had lunch together and I had an opportunity to tour the place. I was informed about their mandate, funding, board, and members. It helped me understand my community and the framework in which this organization operates and ways in which I can help the library fit-in the life of the members of Touchstone Place. I was impressed with the support network.

The participants asked many interesting questions such as, 'Which are the libraries who are part of our regional network? How to access ebooks?' Some participants would like to come for some of the events at the library and  told me to remind them by telephone on the day of the event.

The question is: 'Who was educating whom?' It was a mutually respectful sharing experience.  I plan to take some resources once a month and maybe start a discussion group.

Manisha

Sharing prospects, ideas and preparing for Parade of Programs

Parade of Programs is an awesome event and atleast over 1000 people visit the event. I had a meeting with the Parade of Programs organizer and shared information to bring more exhibitors. We discussed ways in which we could appeal to a broader audience.

Award-winning drummer and Wetaskiwin native Karl Schwonik will be conducting the Arts Days workshops on September 29 and 30. The workshop is free and for more information call the library

>>> Karl Schwonik <kschwonik@hotmail.com> 8/25/2011 10:45 AM >>>

Hi Manisha,

Yes, posting on the blog and sending to your list is no problem at all.

My profile (biography) is attached in both long and short form.

The best age group for these workshops would be grades 4-9.  I have another musician from the Wetaskiwin Jazz Society that is available for those 2 days so we can handle up to 40 students at a time and anything up to 60 min blocks.

Workshops
Led by award-winning drummer and Wetaskiwin native Karl Schwonik, the Arts Days workshops put the fun back in music fundamentals and challenge each student's creative and collaborative skills.
These sessions will focus on many aspects of music and the music business including improvisation, composition, team work and problem solving.  Each aspect of the workshop is interactive and pushes every participant to learn more about music, work together with their peers and gain new invaluable skills from a seasoned performer.

Thanks Manisha.  Feel free to edit this if you like and let me know if you need anything further.  And please keep me updated on the planning of the workshops and when/if events are confirmed.  This is a very busy weekend for me as I am involved in many Arts Days activities around the province.

All the best to you!

Karl Schwonik
kschwonik@hotmail.com  (403) 991-1361
karlschwonik.com
President / Artistic Director- Wetaskiwin Jazz Society and Camp
2-time WCMA Nominee: 'Jazz Recording of the Year'
ChronographRecords.com

Karl Schwonik – Drumset

kschwonik@hotmail.com (403) 991-1361

www.karlschwonik.com

 

 Biography

 

"...one of Canada's most brilliant musicians..."

- Dr. Jeremy Brown - University of Calgary Department of Music

 

"...one of Canada's 3 up and coming drummers…"

- Peter Hum – Ottawa Citizen

 

Alberta born, award-winning drummer Karl Schwonik grew up on a farm near Gwynne where he was exposed to countless musical situations ranging from polka to jazz. Fresh out of high school, Schwonik embarked on a tour with 2-time Canadian Country Music Award Nominee Heather-Dawn. This was followed by an invitation to study at the Banff Centre where Schwonik was the youngest artist ever to be a part of the long-term career residency program.

        In 2008 Schwonik became the President and Founder of the Wetaskiwin Jazz Society in Wetaskiwin, AB, and Artistic Director of the Wetaskiwin Jazz Camp. Still in his mid-20's, Schwonik has an extremely active touring/recording schedule; he has completed over 10 substantial tours throughout North America (including performances at Carnegie Hall and The John F. Kennedy Center) as a leader and released 3 CD's on Chronograph Records. Two of these recording have been nominated for a Western Canadian Music Award in the 'Jazz Recording of the Year' Category. Among the many awards and distinctions Schwonik has garnered in his career is the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta's Emerging Artist Award, the VSA Arts International Young Soloist Award, the AFM International Diversity Award, the Queen's Jubilee Award, multiple DownBeat magazine Awards, and being the youngest ever named one of Calgary's 'Top 40 Under 40' (2009) by Avenue magazine.

Alberta Arts Days celebration September 30-October 2

September 30-October 2


September 29, Thursday: PIDA Printing (Print Information in Daily Activities)

September 30, Friday: Schools (MK)

October 1: One Book One City launch - City Hall (PM)

October 2: Sunday @ the library (Art Celebration begins at 1:30 p.m. Hands on, participate, create artwork/cards, draw, and paint. Please come dressed to participate and do art activities.) 

1. Art Journaling
2. Touchstone to drop off art work for display
3. Horizons Centre to display Cardmaking, Woodworking and art display
4. Weaving and Knitting by Kristi and Marg
5. Let's Make Books by Artist Librarian Wendy from Westlock Public Library
6. Tisket Tasket Clothes, Cultural Prints, and Treasures from around the world. Dress up and take a picture.  (Jamie))
7. Stampin demonstration by Carmen 
8. Perspectives techniques workshop by Betty Dragon
9. Art Walk
10. Meet & Greet the artist
11. Register for a art workshop

First 30 visitors will receive a art kit on Sunday @ the library.


and a Poetry, Photographs and Painting Show (details to follow) - Live demonstrations, Spinning an Weaving demonstration (Mahatma Gandhi's birthday) and Walk and Talk tours.
Library CALLS: Creative Arts. Language. Literature. Lifelong Learning.
Read more at http://copiibrasov.wordpress.com/2011/07/12/library-calls/

For more information, please visit  http://albertaartsdayslibraries2011.blogspot.com/

August 27 Arts and Agriculture Fair on the main street Liquor Bag Campaign

Lori is showing us the messages written on the envelopes by the visitors and a lady is holding the FASD baby. View more pictures at http://fasdday9september2011.blogspot.com/

Photoshots of our editor shopping at the book sale on August 26

Essential Skills use in our life - at work, home and community

We have set up a display and created an 'Tell us how have you used your Essential Skills' contest. A draw will be conducted on September 24.  All results will be collated and posted on our website. The travelling essential skills road show will move to community and business organizations. At every communication point; the target segment is welcome to take the handouts. View details at http://essentialskillshomecommunitywork.blogspot.com/

Read more at http://essentialskillshomecommunitywork.blogspot.com/

Promotion of essential skills at the Parade of Programs on September 7 at the drill hall. View pictures at
http://paradeofprograms7september2011.blogspot.com/2011/09/essential-skills-draw.html

FASD Gathering Public Invitation

Join Us September 9^th, 2011 for Special Guest Speakers, Mocktail Tastings, Games and A Chance to Network With Others in the FASD Community Ceremonies Begin at the Wetaskiwin Public Library 5002 – 51^st Street Wetaskiwin at 1:30.
 Come Help Us Recognize This Important Day. RSVP 780 361 4447

View details at http://fasdday9september2011.blogspot.com/

Help us by writing messages on liquor distribution paper bags

Together let's all raise awareness about FASD.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder  (FASD) Slogans for Bag Decoration

1.     Addictions and Substance Abuse Hotline- 1- 866  - 332  - 2322

2.     Think before you drink, your future baby will thank you

3.     Alcohol hurts unborn babies

4.     When you are pregnant the best drink is no drink at all

5.     If you are pregnant don’t drink, if you drink don’t get pregnant

6.     A pregnant pause..... Fetal Alcohol Syndrome...One drop lasts a lifetime

7.     Drink a beer, damage something dear

8.     Virgin drinks for your baby

9.     A bottle of wine can end your baby’s time.

10.  Community awareness is the first step to help with alcohol

11.   If you drink and are pregnant, don’t be afraid to ask for help

12.   Be a man! Stay sober with your partner and support your baby.

13.   Hey Guy! Be a part of your baby’s life! No Alcohol for 9 months  x2!

14.   I’ m a mama to be -no drinks for me!

15.  Luv yr baby   Luv yourself   Work to stay alcohol free! (use hearts for luv)

16.  Men! Help your Women Avoid Alcohol during pregnancy!

17.   Friends caring for pregnant friends

18.   Everyone helps for a Pregnancy

19.   Plan your pregnancy to be alcohol free

20.   Be kind to my future baby brother or sister (trace your hand on the bag)

21.   If you’re thinking about your drinking—ask for help

22.  Community awareness is the first step to help with alcohol

23.  Brain damage from alcohol affects everyone in a community.

24.  Pregnancy and drinking do not mix. 

25.  Stop and think. If you're pregnant, don't drink.

26.   Not a drop—ask for help to help your baby

27.   Work for Zero Alcohol during Pregnancy

Come, join the Slogan Writing Campaign. Please pick up the bags and slogan list from the library.

      Read more at http://fasdday9september2011.blogspot.com/