Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition April 20 - May 05, 2024

Travel Manitoba is spicing up its tourism plans with a Filipino twist! Engaging directly with the Filipino community leaders and residents through dynamic focus groups, the initiative promises to infuse local tourism strategies with rich cultural insights, aiming to make Manitoba's attractions as welcoming and exciting as a Filipino festival.

Photo by Erin Jonasson | Probe Research

Annual Tourism Awards Celebrates Industry Excellence

Travel Manitoba and Tourism Winnipeg recognized the outstanding contributions of industry professionals as visitor spending and visitation numbers continue to grow.

Winnipeg, Manitoba, April 17, 2024 – In celebration of Manitoba’s strong and vibrant tourism industry, 17 award winners were honoured Wednesday for their achievements in 2023 during the second annual Tourism Awards Winnipeg | Manitoba at the Club Regent Event Centre.

Nominations were received in nine categories and the selected winners included tourism operators, businesses, employees, volunteers, campaigns and events, in Winnipeg and from across the province. Doug Stephen of WOW Hospitality Concepts received an Award of Distinction for his outstanding contributions to some of Winnipeg’s best culinary institutions and the community at large.

The tourism awards are a marquee event for the industry and a highlight of this year’s National Tourism Week, an annual initiative of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. Other activities this week included a tourism conference hosted by the newly formed Tourism Industry Association of Manitoba and a “mascot invasion” at the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport organized by Tourism Winnipeg, a division of Economic Development Winnipeg. Travel Manitoba also launched a new multi-media campaign designed to boost awareness of the economic and social benefits of tourism in the province.

Mayor Scott Gillingham and Glen Simard, Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism joined in welcoming more than 400 attendees to the event and presenting the awards.

"As we mark Winnipeg's 150th anniversary, it is fitting that we celebrate the exceptional achievements of our tourism industry," said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “Winnipeg continues to shine as a premier destination, thanks to the passion and commitment of

our tourism professionals. Tourism not only brings economic prosperity but also showcases the rich history, culture, and hospitality that define our city. Congratulations to all the award winners for their dedication and commitment to showcasing the best Winnipeg has to offer."

“Tourism is a powerful opportunity to bolster our cities, towns and communities as must-visit destinations generating economic growth and benefitting all Manitobans for years to come,” said Glen Simard, Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism. “Thank you and congratulations to the finalists and winners. Your efforts are the backbone of our tourism industry.”

"It's a privilege being among such enthusiastic individuals who embrace and promote our city and province every day,” said Ryan Kuffner, President & CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW). "On behalf of EDW's Tourism Winnipeg team, I congratulate all of today's winners and nominees for their outstanding contributions.”

“This is a celebration of the excellent work of the tourism operators, professionals and attractions that drive the $1.8 billion tourism economy in this province,” said Colin Ferguson, President & CEO of Travel Manitoba. “The incredible work of our award finalists and all the hard-earned success they’ve achieved is truly remarkable. Congratulations to all nominees and winners.”

Congratulations to all our 2023 Award Winners:

Business of the Year - Large

Winnipeg: The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre

Manitoba: Asessippi Ski Hill and Resort

Business of the Year - Small

Winnipeg: Kendrick’s Outdoor Adventures

Manitoba: Masagana Flower Farm & Studio

Marketing Campaign of the Year

Winnipeg: “FOMO”rama, Folklorama

Manitoba: Dauphin, Adventure From Here

On Out, Tourism Dauphin

Indigenous Tourism

Winnipeg: La Brasserie Nonsuch Brewing Co.

Manitoba: Turtle Village

Sustainable Tourism

Winnipeg: Winnipeg Folk Fest

Manitoba: Green Pastures Farm

Event of the Year

Winnipeg: 2023 World Fire & Police Games

Manitoba: Gimli Ice Festival

Employee of the Year

Winnipeg: Barret Miller, FortWhyte Alive

Manitoba: Kyle Walkoski, Great White Bear Tours

Volunteer of the Year

Winnipeg: Jane Fudge, Dalnavert Museum and Visitors' Centre

Manitoba: Richard Felstead, International Peace Garden

Business Excellence in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

Alt Hotel Winnipeg

Award of Distinction

Doug Stephen, WOW Hospitality Concepts

WINNIPEG TO HOST 2025 CEBL CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND

Canada’s biggest annual basketball celebration heads to Winnipeg for first time in August 2025

The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced

Tuesday that the Winnipeg Sea Bears, in collaboration with the Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg, have secured hosting rights for the league’s 2025 Championship Weekend (CW25). For the first time ever, fans at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg will witness the crowning of a CEBL Champion in August 2025.

A celebration of culture, music, community and Canadian basketball, the CEBL’s Championship Weekend has become Canada’s biggest annual basketball event. The weekend includes the top CEBL teams competing to win the league championship trophy, a concert lineup showcasing exciting musical performers, minor basketball events, and an array of activities designed to engage a cross-section of the local community.

“The basketball community in Winnipeg has demonstrated overwhelming support for the Sea Bears and the CEBL since day one, and they continue to establish Winnipeg as a basketball hotbed, quickly setting the standard for excellence in our league,” said Mike Morreale, Commissioner and Co-Founder of the CEBL.

“The decision to award Winnipeg as host of 2025 Championship Weekend was an easy one and we can’t wait to celebrate the biggest Championship Weekend ever with our fans and partners at Canada Life Centre next summer.“

The Sea Bears set multiple CEBL attendance records at Canada Life Centre in 2023, including the singlegame record of 10,580 fans on August 4 against Edmonton in the Play-In round of the playoffs, the single-game regular

season record of 8,230 fans on July 29 against Edmonton, and the full-season attendance record of 65,609 over 11 total games. Now the franchise will make history again by hosting Winnipeg’s first-ever professional basketball championship final in 2025.

“From the moment we launched the team we’ve talked about building it from the ground up,” said David Asper, Owner and Chairman of the Sea Bears. “Hosting the national CEBL Championship is another step in that process and I’m confident that by showcasing Canada’s top teams in a basketball festival, Winnipeg fans will once again elevate the league and the sport.”

The best way for fans in Winnipeg to secure tickets for CW25 is to become a Sea Bears season ticket member. In addition to having their seats reserved for CW25, all current and new season ticket members will receive preferred pricing and first access to the best available seats via an exclusive pre-sale window for additional CW25 tickets. All fans are encouraged to sign up for more information on CW25, including first access to ticket presale information and festival events, by visiting cebl. ca/CW25.

“Manitoba is having a moment, and the Sea Bears are part of the excitement our province is feeling,” said Hon. Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba. “We’re proud to host Championship Weekend next year and we’re ready to showcase the kind of hospitality and sports excellence our province offers. This event will bring economic activity to our downtown, attract tourists and promote our province. My family is looking forward to it – and I’ll

keep working on my three-pointer in preparation.”

A recent report developed by Tourism Winnipeg forecasts the economic impact of CEBL Championship Weekend in Winnipeg exceeding a $5 million infusion into the local economy and supporting more than 1,300 jobs. CW25 joins the Grey Cup as the second major sporting championship scheduled to come to the city in 2025, making for a fun-filled year for Winnipeggers.

“Winnipeg has some of the best sports fans in the country and they enthusiastically welcomed our new basketball team,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham, City of Winnipeg. “The Sea Bears made an immediate impact on our city and downtown, becoming the hot ticket last summer. The 2025 CEBL Championship Weekend will not only showcase the incredible talent in the CEBL but also highlight Winnipeg’s passion for sports. We look forward to welcoming fans from across Canada to our city for an unforgettable weekend of basketball.”

Winnipeg has hosted countless successful major sporting championships, historic games and premier events over the years, most notably football (four Grey Cup games: 1991, 1998, 2006, 2015), hockey (Game 3 of the 1972 Summitt Series, various Canada Cup games, 1999 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, 2017 Heritage Classic), soccer (2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup), curling (three World Championships: 1978, 1991, 2003 and The Brier five times: 1940, 1952, 1970, 1998, 2008), two Pan American Games (1967, 1999) and the 50th Canada Summer Games (2017).

Previous host cities of CEBL

Championship Weekend include Saskatoon (2019), Edmonton (2021), Ottawa (2022) and Vancouver (2023), while Montreal is slated to host in August 2024. The 2023 CEBL Championship Weekend crowned the Scarborough Shooting Stars as league champions, with all three weekend contests played in front of sellout crowds of 5,000 fans at Langley Events Centre. More details on tickets and general event information can be found at cebl.ca/ championshipweekend or by following the CEBL’s Championship Weekend social media account @CEBLCW on Instagram and Twitter.

#5 SHAWN MARANAN

Sea Bears pick Sean Maranan in 3rd Round

Starred at Sisler High School leading the Spartans in scoring, assists and steals...

Named 2018 provincial AAAA championship all-star.

The team’s third round draft pick (28th overall) is Shawn Maranan, who led his Winnipeg Wesmen on an inspiring run to nationals this season, picking up several major individual accolades in the process. Maranan, a Canada West second-team all-star, had 21 points, 18 assists and six rebounds in his team’s Canada West semi-final win over the Calgary Dinos. The five-foot-eight guard followed that up with a 34-point, 11-assist effort in the Canada West finals, where the Wesmen came up just short of the title.

The point guard earned another All-Star nod at the U SPORTS national championships, where he put up 46 points in the Wesmen’s two games.

“I’m super blessed and thankful to be able to officially put on that jersey this summer. But what makes it even better is being at home and representing the city of Winnipeg. I look forward to the season as this opportunity fulfills my childhood dreams of playing professionally in front of my friends and family,” said Maranan.

The Sisler High School grad is also a two-time University of Winnipeg Wesmen Male Athlete of the Year.

“We are pleased to make Shawn

Maranan our third round pick in the 2024 CEBL draft. Shawn has been a leader and playmaker for the University of Winnipeg and we are very happy with our connection with the Wesmen. We hope Shawn can gain great experience with us this summer and return to his Wesmen better than ever as he earns legend status at the University of Winnipeg in his career,” said Taylor.

Congratulations!

Business of the Year – Large

Presented to a tourism business, facility, event or attraction with 20 or more employees that provides exceptional visitor experiences that result in high levels of customer satisfaction through the experiences or services provided

The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre

For The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre, 2023 was all about innovation and taking the next steps to enhance and elevate its overall guest experience. From

interior and exterior renovations, adding Yuk Yuks Winnipeg Comedy Club and Vida Cucina Italia fine dining, to creating new events and experiences like Karaoke Live! and Mistletoe Moose Pop-Up Bar, these efforts contributed to the property’s overall success.

The Fort Garry Hotel produced record-setting revenues through meetings, conferences, tours, events, private dining and social celebrations. By the end 2023, the Fort Garry Hotel’s workforce numbers were the highest in the history of the hotel, a testament to the property's growth, recruitment efforts and workplace culture.

Business of the Year – Small

Presented to a tourism business, facility, event or attraction with fewer than 20 employees that provides exceptional visitor experiences that result in a high level of customer satisfaction through the experiences of services provided.

Masagana Flower Farm & Studio

Through a commitment to environmentally-conscious land stewardship and championing local and rural economies, Masagana Flower Farm & Studio provides guests with a truly unique experience near Richer, Manitoba.

Focusing on the TINTA experience, guests use natural flower dyes to create their own wearable art. Many of the plants are grown on-site, and depending on the time of year, guests can participate in a flower u-pick or forage-from-the-forest experience to create their own unique eco-print. In 2023, construction on the Studio in the Woods was completed, allowing Masagana to invite even more guests for an experience they won’t soon forget.

Masagana shows the natural beauty, fertility and possibility of Manitoba's bright and spacious prairie and invites guests to experience the province in which we live.

Catch the Summer Vibes

The heat is on! The weather is finally becoming more and more conducive to the season's vibes. Concerts are starting to grace again the stages of Winnipeg.

On May 3, the Philippine-based band Gigi de Lana & the Gigi Vibes will be performing at Club Regent Event Centre. Front acts are Zachary, Mystrio, and The 12/21. For tickets, contact Bianca at 204-952-8764.

MLA Chen recognizes NCSM

On March 13, Jennifer Chen, MLA for Fort Richmond, recognized Nepali Cultural Society of Manitoba (NCSM) and presented the organization's members, which included Nabin Katel, with a member statement certificate. The event was held at Legislative Building.

Jericho Rosales Addresses Kathryn Bernardo Courting Rumors

Actor Jericho Rosales subtly refuted speculations of him courting Kapamilya star Kathryn Bernardo during an interview with entertainment reporter MJ Felipe. When questioned about his priorities for the year, including finding love, Rosales promptly responded with a "No." Addressing rumors circulating earlier this year about his relationship with Bernardo, Rosales, with a smile, stated he avoids social media to maintain a clear mind. Despite persistent inquiries from Felipe, Rosales reiterated his focus on career and family, emphasizing it's too early for romantic pursuits in 2024. Recent claims by talent manager Ogie Diaz suggested Rosales, along with actor Alden Richards, were vying for Bernardo's affection, alleging preferences from Bernardo's family favor Richards due to his perceived responsibility and financial stability. Richards has been notably present at Bernardo's family events, further fueling speculation surrounding the actress' romantic interests.

Vilma Santos Reacts to Calls for National Artist Recognition

Vilma Santos, revered as the Star for All Seasons, responded candidly to the fervent pleas from fans for her to be declared a National Artist, the highest honor bestowed upon Filipino contributors to arts and culture. During the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Cine Icons event at the University of Sto. Tomas, Santos expressed heartfelt gratitude to supporters but remained humble about the possibility, stating, "If it’s

meant to be, it will happen." She emphasized that validation should come from those external to her, acknowledging the subjective nature of taste and talent. Despite differing opinions, Santos thanked her dedicated fans, the Vilmanians, recognizing their unwavering support. Resolute in her belief that fate will decide, she remains appreciative of the recognition she has received thus far.

Atty. Oliver Moeller Addresses Speculations of Courting Kim Chiu

Fans of "It’s Showtime" were taken aback when Atty. Oliver Moeller, known as the "sporty lawyer ng Cebu" and former contestant of "EXpecially for You," made a surprise appearance on the show. During his visit, Moeller was playfully teased by the hosts, including Vice Ganda, sparking curiosity among viewers.

In an exclusive interview with ABS-CBN News, Moeller expressed gratitude for the attention he's received since his first guesting on April 6, which garnered online traction, even leading to the reposting of his

workout videos. He acknowledged the possibility of venturing into showbiz, citing his interest in expanding his network.

When questioned about his interactions with "Showtime" host Kim Chiu, which stirred speculation online, Moeller remained discreet, stating it wouldn't be fair to discuss without her consent. While acknowledging Chiu's appeal and their shared Cebuano background, Moeller declined to confirm or deny rumors of courting her, respecting her privacy.

Kathryn Bernardo and Jericho Rosales

Photo source: Instagram/ Nice Print Photo

Photo courtesy: Oliver Moeller Facebook

The Star for All Seasons is joined by Ricky Lee and ABS-CBN Film Restoration’s Leo Katigbak during the talkback session.

Photo source: CCP Film, Broadcast and New Media’s Facebook Page

BLOCK IMMIGRANT NURSES AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS FROM DOING THE JOBS THEY ARE TRAINED FOR

BRING IN A BLUE SEAL TEST SO FILIPINO NURSES AND HEALTH CARE WORKERS CAN TAKE A TEST, PASS IT, AND GET TO WORK WITHIN 60 DAYS

BUILDING BRIDGES: FILIPINO PERSPECTIVES CRAFTING MANITOBA’S TOURISM FUTURE

Travel Manitoba is on a mission, and it's all about bringing new flavors to our tourism scene, Filipino-style! Partnering with Probe Research, we've launched a series of fun and insightful focus groups that put Manitoba’s Filipino residents front and center in our tourism development plans.

Why focus on the Filipino community, you ask? Well, it’s simple. They bring a vibrant cultural tapestry and a zest for community activities that are second to none.

These focus groups were all about tapping into that vibrant energy to uncover how we can spice up our tourism offerings.

Participants didn’t hold back!

They shared everything from their weekend escapades across Manitoba’s landscapes to their dreams of more culturally rich experiences at tourist spots. They talked about practical stuff too, like boosting bilingual advertising and getting more Filipino festivals and events on the tourism calendar.

“It’s been eye-opening,” said one

of the focus group facilitators. “The ideas were flowing, from tiny tweaks like more advertising in Tagalog to big dreams like annual cultural festivals and sports tournaments that could draw visitors from near and far.”

This isn’t just about making notes and nodding heads. Travel Manitoba is serious about turning these chats into real changes that make exploring Manitoba a top pick for everyone, no matter where they’re from. The plan? To sprinkle a little Filipino flair across our tourism strategies,

ensuring they’re as welcoming as a homemade Filipino meal. Keep your eyes peeled as we report back to our participants and

the community. We’re just getting started on making Manitoba’s tourism scene a vibrant, inclusive party, and you’re all invited!

Sharing post-group discussions with Colin Ferguson, CEO Travel Manitoba with Donna Cantiveros (left) and Ron Cantiveros (right).

Right to left: Donnna Cantiveros, Filipino Journal; Joyce Catenza, RBC and MFBC; Colin Ferguson, Travel Manitoba; Donna Natividad-Arenas, CKJS and Rowena Hernandez, Talisay Associaiton of Manitoba. Thanks to Travel Manitoba and Tourism Winnipeg for the discussion and gift bags for all participants. Left to right: Donna Cantiveros, Filipino Journal; Myra Jacinto, MYZX Images and Events and Mari-anne Ferrer, Agape Insurance and Financial Services.

Community Members meeting with Travel Manitoba during 2nd focus group at the Pavillion Gallery at Assiniboine Park. Thank you Assiniboine Park Conservancy for hosting our focus group and community engagement efforts.

Breakout session with Erin Jonasson Probe Research.

President Marcos Commends Largest Drug Seizure with No Casualties

President Marcos lauded the Philippine authorities for intercepting a staggering P13.3 billion worth of shabu in Batangas, marking the country's largest single drug confiscation to date. Speaking after the seizure of two tons of shabu at a police checkpoint in Alitagtag town, Marcos emphasized the success of the government's "bloodless" approach to combating illegal drugs.

Accompanied by officials from the Department of the Interior

and Local Government, Marcos inspected the drug haul in Alitagtag town, highlighting the absence of violence during the operation.

Expressing determination to dismantle drug syndicates, Marcos revealed that investigations are underway to trace the origins of the seized narcotics, which were smuggled in a passenger van intercepted at a checkpoint in Barangay Pinagkrusan. The van's driver has been apprehended and faces charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Marcos outlined his administration's strategy, focusing on law enforcement within legal boundaries and emphasizing prevention and rehabilitation over punitive measures. The recent drug bust surpassed previous records, reflecting a shift from previous controversial approaches. Meanwhile, human rights groups urge Marcos to end violent tactics and embrace harm reduction strategies, as discussions on drug policy reform gain traction

In what was seen as a

PAGASA Issues Warning: Sweltering May Temperatures Ahead

PAGASA alerts the public to brace for even hotter days and nights ahead, as temperatures are expected to soar beyond the already scorching levels, potentially surpassing 40 degrees Celsius in the coming weeks.

According to Ana Solis, chief of the Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section, the forecasted maximum temperature for May has already been exceeded earlier this week, with Isa town in Isabela province recording a scorching 40 degrees Celsius.

Solis cautioned that other areas could also experience similarly extreme temperatures as the Philippines remains under the influence of a high-pressure ridge, exacerbated by the warm and dry season coupled with the weakening El Niño phenomenon,

whose effects may persist until June.

The onset of the wet season might be delayed, possibly not occurring until the first or second week of June or later, due to the potential development of La Niña.

Philippines Asserts Sovereign Right in Strengthening Ties with US and Japan

The Philippines reaffirmed its prerogative to enhance its partnerships with the United States and Japan, emphasizing that such collaborations are not aimed at threatening any nation, including

China, amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., alongside US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, convened in Washington

PAGASA advises the public to take precautions against the intense heat, particularly in areas where dangerous heat index temperatures of 42 to 43 degrees Celsius are expected, which could lead to heatlast week for a landmark trilateral summit, focusing on bolstering economic and security alliances.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) underscored that the trilateral cooperation signifies a positive pursuit that should be viewed as an opportunity for peace and development in the region.

Emphasizing the country's sovereign choice, the DFA stated that the decision to fortify alliances aligns with the Philippines' national interests and independent foreign policy.

Highlighting the potential benefits of the trilateral initiative, the DFA mentioned anticipated support for infrastructure development and critical technologies, along with efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.

The joint statement issued by the three nations expressed deep concern over Beijing's actions in the South China Sea, criticizing its behavior as destabilizing. The DFA called on China to reassess its actions and urged for a peaceful resolution to tensions in the region.

related illnesses such as cramps, exhaustion, and stroke.

Meanwhile, over 1.14 million Filipinos across nine regions have already been affected by El Niño, with reports of agricultural damage and water shortages. Assistance efforts by the Department of Social Welfare and Development include

the distribution of relief items worth millions to affected families, with standby funds allocated for further aid. Various regions, including Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, and others, have reported significant impacts on agriculture and livelihoods due to the ongoing dry spell.

OMNI Scholarship Program

Calling all journalism students – OMNI Television has launched its OMNI Scholarship program for 2024. These scholarships are open to all eligible students pursuing post secondary studies in a journalism-related field and who are interested in ethnic and third-language journalism. OMNI will award 10 scholarships of $2,000 CAD each this Fall. Deadline to submit is no later than 1:00 PM EST, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. For more information and to submit an online application, visit https:// portal.scholarshippartners.ca/welcome/omnitv_EN/

OMNI is home to daily national newscasts, a variety of locally produced current affairs programs, broadcast in 6 languages, and airs popular entertainment shows from around the globe. OMNI supports journalism students interested in providing news and information to Canadians in the languages they understand.

To learn more about OMNI scholarships, visit www.omnitv.ca/ scholarships or www.omnitv.ca/bourses

US President Joe Biden speaks to the press with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (R) and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (L) at the White House in Washington, DC, April 11, 2024.

Photo source: AFP / Andrew Caballero-Reynolds

Photo by iStock

subtle dig at his predecessor’s bloody war on drugs, President Marcos inspects P13.3 billion worth of shabu, which he said was the largest drug haul in years that was conducted without anybody being killed, in Alitagtag, Batangas yesterday. Looking on is Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos.

Photo by Krizjohn Rosales

Hockey Sticks and Hoops: Raising Happy, Healthy Kids Through Sports

Hey parents, if you've been thinking about getting your kids off the couch and into some action, sports might just be your golden ticket! Let’s talk about why basketball and hockey should be on your radar for your young athletes.

your kid scoring a basket or hitting the ice hard with a fantastic puck stop—talk about a confidence booster!

And who doesn't want a happy kid, right? Running around the court or skating on the ice triggers those feel-good endorphins. Plus, being part of a team means your child is making friends and having fun, which is sure to keep the smiles coming.

Speaking of teamwork, both basketball and hockey are fantastic for teaching kids about working together and building social skills. Whether they’re passing the puck or setting up a shot, they’re learning valuable lessons in communication and leadership.

And here’s a cool fact: kids who are active in sports tend to score better in school too. The discipline and focus they develop on the field or ice can translate into their studies.

Plus, playing team sports like basketball and hockey helps kids sharpen their communication skills. They'll be chatting up a storm with teammates, coaches, and even the competition.

First off, playing sports like hockey and basketball is a slam dunk for boosting self-esteem. Imagine Navigating

REGISTER YOUR CHILD NOW!

Filipino Bilingual Programming (Grades K to 2) offered at Meadows West School, WSD ( 204- 694-6755)

Learning the Filipino language is an incredible gift to give a child. It goes beyond just learning another language. It develops academic competence, language acquisition, fosters values, culture/ heritage identity, & broadens community connections.

Lastly, let’s not forget about staying in shape. Regular play keeps them fit and teaches them the value of a healthy lifestyle—vital for fending off those pesky health issues like obesity.

So, lace up those sneakers or strap on those skates! Encouraging your kids to hit the basketball court or the hockey rink might just be the best play you make for their health, happiness, and overall development.

Pinoy Biz

In an increasingly globalized world, the nuances of immigration and employment laws are more pertinent than ever, especially in a multicultural and economically intertwined nation like Canada. To shed light on these critical issues, Thompson Dorfman Sweatman (TDS) LLP, the largest labour and employment practice firm in Manitoba, is hosting a free online webinar designed to equip employers, HR professionals, and legal advisors with essential insights and strategies.

Event Details

Title: Global Talent Management: Navigating Immigration and Hiring Practices in Canada

Date and Time: April 25th, 2024, 12:00 – 1:00 pm CST

Format: Online webinar, free of charge

Registration: Online at www. wtcwinnipeg.com

What You Will Learn

The webinar promises a rich agenda, covering a broad spectrum of topics crucial for anyone involved in hiring and managing workforce across borders. Here’s what participants can expect:

1. Hiring Temporary Foreign Workers

Process Simplification: Learn the steps to successfully navigate the

Celebrate Tourism Week in Winnipeg: April 24-30

Tourism Week in Canada is an opportunity to spotlight the vital role tourism plays in Winnipeg's economy. Annually, the city welcomes about 3.5 million visitors, generating around $609 million in direct spending and supporting over 48,000 jobs across 4,000 businesses, contributing $2.3 billion to the local GDP.

Discover Winnipeg’s Top Attractions Tourism Week is the perfect time for locals to explore their city with fresh eyes. Noteworthy attractions include the Royal Canadian Mint, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and unique spots recognized by Atlas Obscura. The Winnipeg Attractions Pass offers up to 35% off at major sites like the Manitoba Museum and FortWhyte Alive, promising diverse experiences from polar bear encounters to relaxing spa days under the stars.

Stay, Play, and Dine Locally

Consider a staycation at one of Winnipeg’s hotels, ranging from chic boutiques to major brands, with special deals enhancing the experience with culinary delights. The city’s vibrant performance scene features plays, operas, and comedy shows, with something for everyone during Tourism Week.

Support Local Businesses

Dining locally is made easy with guides like the Best Eats website and Peg City Grub, which highlight top dining spots and culinary stories. Shopping locally also boosts the community, with a variety of unique, locally-owned shops in neighborhoods from The Forks to Academy Road, showcasing Winnipeg’s artisans and makers.

Celebrate Tourism Week by experiencing the best of Winnipeg, supporting the local economy, and discovering—or rediscovering—the city’s vibrant culture and community offerings.

(& closely related styles) part 59

IMúsika Ultimate New Wave Evolution

n the 1990s, edgier and more abrasive styles of Alternative Rock began to enjoy the commercial spotlight--Shoegaze and Grunge, as examples. This development carried onto the decade that followed, producing new genres like PostGrunge, Post-Rock, Emo, and Math Rock. And nothing's wrong with these; I'd engaged in them as well. After all, it's all part of the entire sonic evolution; one just has to adapt, or become jaded, outdated, and frustrated.

Meanwhile, in the same stream, many classic New Wave-associated acts unassumingly but persistently swim their way through the ever expanding ocean of music, adapting as well but retaining their roots.

In the previous part of this

Sa Úgoy ng

series, I featured a number of 2000s-released albums by some of the pioneers of New Wave--records that many fans had not even noticed.

Now, here is another batch that came out in the 2000s. This shows that New Wave never really died but just got bumped to the sidetracks after the illustrious '80s.

* Gene Loves Jezebel - Exploding Girls (2003) ("Exploding Girl")

* The Cure - The Cure (2004) ("Taking Off")

* Duran Duran - Astronaut (2004) ("[Reach Up for The] Sunrise")

* U2 - How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004) ("Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own")

* a-ha - Analogue (2005) ("Cosy Prisons")

* Echo & the Bunnymen - Siberia (2005) ("Stormy Weather")

* The Go-Betweens - Oceans Apart (2005) ("Here Comes a City")

* New Order - Waiting for the Sirens' Call (2005) ("Krafty")

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

Yikes! April Fool’s Day is no joke this year when Mercury goes into retrograde on Monday. You might have egg on your face over the next few weeks after putting your foot in your mouth or burning bridges with your short fuse. Think carefully before you speak or act, Aries. Be careful what you say in social settings over the next few weeks, Gemini. It could come back to haunt you when Mercury goes into retrograde in your social zone on Monday. The same goes for sending emails in the heat of the moment, texting exes, and getting frustrated with technology. Take a deep breath before reacting.

Saying “April Fool’s!” won’t help you when Mercury goes into retrograde in your career zone on Monday. You could easily burn down your reputation because of a thoughtless word or action. Think carefully before you make a move, Cancer, or a harebrained scheme could get you into hot water.

Spring is in full bloom, but you might feel like you’re in the deep freeze when Mercury goes into retrograde in your expansion zone on Monday. Over the next few weeks, you’ll have time to reexamine your beliefs and morals, and this could lead to some eye-opening discoveries, for better or worse.

Mercury goes into retrograde in your partnership zone on Monday, so this is not a great time for your love life because passions could easily burn you out. From quarreling with lovers to making enemies, it’s hard to get along with others, especially if you always believe you’re right. Learn to bend without giving up your beliefs, Libra.

As we settle into spring, the next few weeks are the time to work on your health and self-discipline goals once Mercury goes into retrograde in your productivity zone on Monday. Use this energy to reorganize your life and create healthier habits for yourself. However, start slowly. Don’t overdo it and burn out, Scorpio.

April Fool’s Day could make you feel foolish when Mercury goes into retrograde in your pleasure zone on Monday. This retrograde could be a major blow to your confidence as miscommunication, delays, and blocks prevent you from putting yourself out there.

Your domestic life is going to feel a little dramatic over the next few weeks once Mercury goes into retrograde in your family zone on Monday. There’s a strong possibility you’ll have to deal with family drama and put out fires. Look for a strong foundation to rebuild on and regain your peace of mind, Capricorn.

Over the next few weeks, you’ll need to pump the brakes before trying any of the ideas you come up with once Mercury goes into retrograde in your communication zone on Monday. Plans could easily go haywire, especially if you don’t think things through. Keep

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Pinoy Biz

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, a critical element in hiring foreign workers.

Immigrant Hiring Practices: Understand any differential procedures for employing immigrants, ensuring compliance and efficiency.

2. Cross-Border Employment

Remote Work Compliance: Explore the legalities Canadian employees face when working remotely for U.S. employers, including dual compliance with Canadian and U.S. immigration laws.

Visa Requirements: Gain insights into the visa needs for international employees who travel to the USA for work, like truck drivers, and how to manage these requirements smoothly.

3. Ethical Hiring Practices

Non-Discrimination: The webinar will delve into non-discriminatory hiring practices, ensuring fairness and legal compliance in recruitment and employment.

4. Remote Work Dynamics

Inter-Provincial and International

Concerns: Learn about the challenges and regulations surrounding remote workers who operate from various provinces or countries, catering to a globally dispersed workforce.

5. Contractual Employment Confidentiality Agreements: Address how to effectively draft and enforce non-disclosure agreements with contract or term employees to protect sensitive company information.

Why Attend? This webinar is not just an opportunity to learn but also to engage with leading experts from TDS LLP, who bring years of experience and deep knowledge of the complexities of Canadian and international employment law. Attendees

will leave with practical tips and deeper understanding that can be directly applied to enhance their recruitment and employment strategies.

Staying updated with the latest regulations and practices in immigration and employment law is crucial for

maintaining compliance and securing the best talent. Join this pivotal webinar to ensure your practices align with current legal standards and industry best practices. How to Register: www.wtcwinnipeg.com

Twelve Languages. Six Locations. One Goal: To Serve Your Needs.