The last push to regularize

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2022 The last push to regularize

Approximately 90 undocumented migrants are travelling to Ottawa on Monday, November 14. They was the “Adjustment of Status Program” which exposed the systemic flaws in the immigration laws. It granted are set to meet with politicians in an

MIGRANTS'

VOICES

Marco Luciano mluciano2@gmail.com

Marco Luciano is the Global Council

Representative of Philippine based

Migrante International. He is also the current Secretary General of its chapter Migrante Canada. status to about 39,000 people from over 150 countries Another adjustment of status initiative took place from 1983 to 1985 by the Minister's Review Committee, called “Illegal Migrants in Canada”. In May 1986, the government introduced another regularization program which was known as a "partial amnesty" for refugee claimants. “The Deferred Removal Orders Class (DROC)”, was implemented from 1994 to 1998. The program provided status to about 3,000 mostly Chinese people, although some were from Iran. There were two regularization programs in 2002 for the Haitians and Algerians. The H&C or the “Humanitarian and Compassionate Application” consideration is the only permanent regularization mechanism which allows anyone living without legal status in Canada to apply. While there were these programs

attempt to push the regularization to regularize the status of immigrant program for undocumented migrants. groups before, none have been projected These migrants came from Montreal, to include so many people. Toronto, Calgary and Edmonton. Danilo De Leon, an undocumented

The Liberal government is targeting migrant from Edmonton, will be in to create a program that will provide Ottawa to be part of the final push. “I a path to permanent residency for wanted to be there to give my part. Many over 500,000 undocumented migrants. undocumented migrants sacrificed to be Late last year, Prime Minister Justin there, and I will be with them,” said De Trudeau gave a mandate letter to Leon. Three migrants will be coming Immigration Minister Sean Fraser from Alberta, Danilo, as well as two to "further explore ways of regularizing others from Calgary. The town hall status for undocumented workers who are will start with the meeting with contributing to Canadian communities." Immigration Minister’s office. It will Regularization is the process of giving be followed by a media event and a status to “irregular” migrants or migrants meeting with the NDP caucus in the that do not have a regular status in afternoon. Canada. Aside from Regularization for

Since October, Ministry officers all without exceptions, there are other had consultations with several advocacy demands that these migrants were asking groups about the program. There have for. Some of these demands include: been many regularization programs No delay. Delay is unjust and keeps in the past. The first regularization the status of undocumented migrants program in Canada was the “Chinese precarious; No language, educational, Adjustment Statement Program”, which family requirements. These requirements took place in 1960 to 1972. In 1973 are discriminatory; Removal of any caps. Every undocumented migrant must be included, and no one should be left behind; An Open Work Permit should be issued to the migrants while waiting for their permanent residency to be processed; Lastly, to end the deportation. “We, migrants, and undocumented people should have a voice in policy creations. We must be part of the decision making,” says Danilo De Leon.

KUSINA DIARIES

Leonila Samarita

samleonila@gmail.com

Leonila learned to take life in stride after realizing that life truly is what we make it. She believes that life, in every moment, brings opportunities for us to be better or do better. She is grateful. Finds joy in everything she does. She loves her life.

Why I Love Zucchini

PHOTO: EVGENY IVANOV / EYEEM / GETTY IMAGES

Idon’t remember having or seeing zucchini in the Philippines when I was younger, but my preference for unripe squash that we normally use for bulanglang made it easy for me to warm up to it easily. It is one of the most common veggies—I mean fruit, that you can find in my fridge. And yes, zucchini is a fruit.

Should you eat it? I would say yes because zucchini is reach in vitamins, minerals and other plant compounds that are beneficial to your health. It is rich in vitamin A to support your vision and immune system. Its skin has a high level of antioxidants that can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.Those antioxidants can also help reduce blood sugar levels.

It is rich in water and fiber which can help soften stools thereby reducing your risk of constipation. It promotes healthy digestion. According to Healthline publication, the fiber, potassium, and carotenoids in zucchini may lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease. Zucchini may also benefit bone, thyroid, and prostate health. It may also have anticancer properties.

Kelly McCauley (center), Member of Parliament-Edmonton West, formally welcomes the owners of Chowkeni Restaurant, Rhogie and Sheila Reyes (left) to the Westside of Edmonton during the restaurant's opening at 16806 118 Avenue NW, November 8. Chowkeni first started by launching a food truck in Edmonton, then opened food services on Main Street in Spruce Grove.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

L-R: Carmelita Baluyot, Berna Young, Edmonton Zumba instructor Manny Arban, Jun Angeles, Maria Martinez, Teresita Billedo, Atty. Joseph Angeles, owner of ChowKeni Rhogie Reyes

Attorney Joseph Angeles, AFJ publisher Jose “Jun” Angeles

from page 18 Why I Love Zucchini

What is the best way to prepare

it? Zucchini is a versatile fruit and can be eaten raw or cooked in salads, snacks, soups, stews, baked goods and more.

During the summer when there is an abundant supply of it in the market, I will carefully select the young, freshly picked ones. Those are the best if you want to eat it raw. Just wash, slice them the way you want, and they are ready as a snack or to add to a salad. Here are some ways to incorporate it in your diet: • Add raw to salads • Cut in half, smother with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper then grill it • Cut in half, stuff with meat or other veggies or cheese then bake it • Boil until soft then blend into soups • Slice and sauté with garlic, onions, and olive oil and serve as a side dish • Slice, deep in beaten egg and then breadcrumbs and fry • Spiralize into spaghetti or linguinelike noodles • Slice thinly to use as lasagna sheets • Add into breads, muffins, or cakes • Cut into thin circles, season as you like and bake until crispy as zucchini chips • Cut as you please and eat raw as snacks • Cut into cubes, add into soups • Stir fry with other vegies… and the possibilities are endless

If you haven’t yet, add this healthy neutral tasting fruit to your diet today and enjoy it!

In the performing arts industry, apart from talent, skills and hard work, luck may play a big part in one’s career - of being at the right time at the right place, and/or knowing the right people. One artist with such luck is Edmonton-based singer and songwriter, Aeron J.

ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

Ida Beltran-Lucila

ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

You may see Aeron J as one of the front act performers in local shows in Edmonton featuring Philippinebased bands and performers. I did see him at the December Avenue concert and the Kultura Filipino Festival. He is also in the line up in upcoming concerts.

Aeron J is Aeron Joshua Basila, born and raised in Bulacan, who arrived in Edmonton in 2014. He is the oldest of three siblings (the others are twin sisters), whose parents worked in the entertainment industry - at GMA and ABS-CBN. As a young boy, Aeron J was fond of basketball, and dreamed of becoming an engineer as he was fond of numbers and problem solving.

But the pandemic, as with some people, altered the direction of his life. Bored out of his wits, he started writing songs, singing and recording his own music. His early songs, “Through Odds” and “Heartbreak” (released in January 2021) were inspired by his relationship with girlfriend Faith, who is his muse, primary and most important critic and supporter, and serves as his current manager. With no music training and technical background, Aeron J would find a beat or vibe then write out lyrics based on his current thoughts and emotions. A guarded person, he found he is able to express himself more through his songwriting.

It was while looking for assistance with a mix that Aeron J reached out to a member of HOOD 047, an Olongapo City-based rap group. This led to an invitation to collaborate with the group in the music video “Wasted”. The video went viral, trending #1 in the Philippines with 18

million views on YouTube. It also featured Guthrie Nikolao, along with HOOD 047’s J emm Dahon, Kushin and KL. Aeron J’s contribution to Wasted was about missing his friends due to the pandemic. This successful collaboration led to tv guestings in the Philippines for Aeron J in ASAP, Tv5 and GMA. He was flown back to perform in the Wish Bus, performed in concerts and worked on a second collaboration with HOOD 047, On Time which was released in May 2022.

Aeron J has currently five songs mostly in Filipino, released in his different channels, i.e. YouTube, Spotify, and iTunes. He is one of a handful of artists fortunate to have opportunities like these in less than two years of embarking on a musical career path. He is thrilled with the fact that he is now experiencing what he and his friends used to just dream about, and his journey is serving as an inspiration to his friends. It is after going through all these exhilarating engagements that he realised that music is something he can and should be serious at pursuing. He is currently studying music mixing, social media and digital marketing and plans to take vocal training.

With most of his success anchored in the Philippines, he seeks to establish himself in Canada, headline his own concert, and be at par with artists he idolizes like Ex B, December Avenue and Ben&Ben. Grateful for the opportunity provided to him by HOOD 047, he pays this forward by connecting local Edmonton artists to those he has worked with in the Philippines, and having collaborations with other young artists in his upcoming music videos and EPs.

One can say that luck was working in Aeron J’s favour for the start of his musical career. And from the looks of it, it was a really great start. It is now up to him, as a true artist, to sustain this momentum and potential with hard work, perseverance and passion. And so, if you are a believer of serendipity and destiny, watch out for Aeron J and witness the trajectory his talent and music career would take. We wish Aeron J all the best!

To comment on this article, go to https://www. philippineartscouncil.com/blog.

Supporting children after separation

When a married couple or a couple that has been living together as husband and wife without the benefit of marriage, otherwise known as an Adult Interdependent Relationship (AIP) in Alberta or common-law relationship in other provinces in Canada, decide to call it quits and terminate their marriage or relationship, there are several things that need to be dealt with such as division of any assets and liabilities, parenting arrangement for the children, decision-making responsibilities, and support for the children or the other spouse/ partner, if any.

Given the complexity of the topics that I have mentioned above, I would limit my article to child support and other matters will be parked and discussed in a different article.

Most of the time, one of the contentions that spouses or AIP partners have to deal with is child support. After separation, parents need to consider where the children will stay. How much time will the children spend with the mom and with the dad. Regardless as to who gets the children, either or both parents are required to pay child support. Child support is required when there is a child of the marriage or relationship who is either a minor (below 18 years of age) or who is dependent on the parent’s care by reason of illness, disability, or other reason like postsecondary education.

Child support is basically divided into expenses (Section 3 expenses) that are necessary for the children such as food, shelter, and clothing, and expenses (Section 7 expenses) that are extraordinary such as among others child care, medical or dental insurance and expenses, extracurricular activities, and post-secondary education.

In terms of Section 3 expenses, the amount to be paid depends on few factors such as to which parent the children will spend the most time with and, ultimately, the income of the parents. If one parent has primary and day-to-day care over the children, the other parent is considered as the payor and he or she is liable to pay the amount based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines found in the Divorce Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. 3 (2nd Supp.)).

In terms of Section 7 expenses, the amount to be paid depends on the proportionate share of the parent from the total income amount earned by both parents. For example, if the father earns an annual income of $40,000 and the mother earns $60,000, the annual income combined is $100,000. The father’s share would be 40% ($40,000 / $100,000) and the mother’s share would be 60% ($60,000 / $100,000). If the child incurs $1,000 for dental expenses then the father is responsible for paying $400 (40%) and the mother is responsible for paying $600 (60%).

At the end of the day, legislation

IRVIN BAUTISTA

A Lawyer practising Family Law, Immigration Law, Contract Law, Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, Wills & Estates, and Criminal Law and can be found at 20430 128A Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5S 0N4. Back then: 2016 General Legal Counsel (JCI Philippines) 2016 Director for National Relations (JCI Manila) 2015 Area General Legal Counsel (Metro Area, JCI Philippines)

is geared towards the well-being of the children because they are the most vulnerable as they do not have the power to provide for themselves. This is where the parents step in to support them. Parents cannot get away from this responsibility.

If you have any legal questions, feel free to email me at irvin.bautista@ gmail.com. Any response to questions made on the next article shall not be considered legal advice.

Tips for traveling in winter

VIEWPOINT

Bing J. Jaleco

bingjaleco@yahoo.com

Raleigh “Bing” Jaleco was a veteran journalist and public relations consultant in the Philippines. He started out as a correspondent for Ang Pahayagang Malaya and then moved on to be a reporter, and then an editor, of The Manila Chronicle. He also served as news editor of The Manila Standard, business editor of The Manila Times, and sub-editor at the Manila Bulletin. He landed as a permanent resident in Canada in 2016.

BY tradition, winter officially starts on December 21, the winter solstice, or that day in the year when we have the shortest day and the longest night. The Farmers’ Almanac says it is celebrated in many cultures since ancient times, and some of the Christmas rituals and practices we have today are rooted in these ancient festivities.

It is only November, but you will be forgiven for thinking it is already winter. Temperatures have plummeted, the first snowfall dumped 35 centimeters on Edmonton and surrounding areas, and misery, not good cheer, was spread around. But then this is Alberta, and one has to get used to the weather in much the same way you try to get used to road constructions all over the city. Headaches for sure, but something you just accept and move on.

Then again, this weather is certainly nothing to laugh at nor ignore. Which is why one of the most annoying things I experience in this city are drivers who drive on snow and ice like it was summer, and give brilliant excuses like “it’s not yet winter anyway.”

So, we all have to be mindful not just of the winter deniers but of the existing weather conditions, especially when traveling. At the Edmonton International Airport where I work, airlines have shifted to their respective winter schedules, and there are now more flights south.

I picked out some really useful tips from a host of travel blogs and sites on the internet. So for those planning to travel, here are some tips to help make it less stressful.

From quattrossm.com: Take nonstop flights is possible. They may cost a little more but it’s a hedge against cancellations and delays. If you do have connecting flights, remember to bring your coats, you might have to change planes outdoors. Leave early for the airport, and always stay updated online.

From travelalberta.com: When traveling across Alberta, the weather can change quickly. So, dress for the occasion. “It’s best to dress in layers Warm jackets, boots, scarves, mittens and hats are a must in our winter months. Bring a hat and sunglasses to provide protection from strong sunlight.”

From the Alberta Motor Association (ama.ab.ca): If you have plans of going on a road trip, make sure your vehicle is prepped for the cold drive. Switch to synthetic oil (helps your car start in sub-zero temps. Check fluids, belts and hoses for bulges and leaks. Check the battery (because it’s really cold out there), and use winter tires (make sure you use a set of four identical tires). And do get winter wiper blades because they do help when driving in ice, sleet, or snow.

And above all, always put safety ahead of everything else. Some precautions may cost you a little more, but there’s never a good substitute for your safety and those of your loved ones.

Confession attracts salvation MAKE OUR

Luke 19:1-10 DAILY GOSPEL Zaccheus is a little man with big problems. He was short and hated by his fellows. He was hated because he READING TRENDING was exacting too much taxes from his fellow Jews. He used his profession to Like it and share it! gain unjust wealth. He was a notorious and dishonest tax collector. He was rich, but unhappy. Perhaps some of us are like Zacchaeus. We have much in life but are left feeling empty. Today’s gospel give us this great lesson in life. Desire to see Jesus more than anything. Folks, money can be a universal provider of everything except happiness. Money may be used as a universal passport everywhere except in heaven. Pope Francis once said, “When one lives Fr. Jhack Diaz attached to money and power, it is Rev. Fr. Raldy "jhack" Diaz is the impossible to be happy.” first Filipino priest ordained in the Bear this in mind my dear friends: Money can buy happiness, but not joy; Diocese of St. Paul Alberta. He is currently the Pastor of St. Jean de Brebeuf Parish, Mallaig, Alberta. Money can buy food, but not an appetite; Money can buy a house, but not a home; Money can buy medicine, but not health; Money can buy pleasure, but not joy; Money can buy style, but not beauty; Money can buy books, but not wisdom; Money can buy contracts, but not trustworthiness; Money can buy weapons, but not peace; Money can buy a beautiful grave, but not eternal life.

Finally, Zacchaeus was regarded as a “beast in human form” but this does not stop him from seeing who Jesus is. Folks, never let your sins stop your desire to meet Jesus. Do not ever allow your wickedness to hinder yourself from encountering the Lord. Conquer those who conquer you. Like Zacchaeus, let us change our life from being greedy to being generous. "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much." My dear friends, let us not be ashamed to admit our sins and make efforts not to sin again. If we do this, salvation is possible. “Today, salvation has come to this house.” Conclusion: Three points to encourage us. First, God loves short people. Second, the most important things in life are not things. Finally, salvation is possible if we have the habit of admitting our atrocity. We commit sins but if we are sincerely sorry for it, salvation is assured by God. Folks, confession attracts salvation. Blessings, Fr. Jhack

THE PROTECTIVE POWER OF WISDOM

OUR TEXT Proverbs 2:10-11 10 “When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

Tito S. Venida

FOUNDING FATHER

Tito S. Venida is a product of the University of the Philippines. He used to be a student-leader during his college days and became one of the founders of the Tau Gamna Phi, one of the world leading Philippine-produced fraternities. His immensurable love for the human race has brought him to the conviction of translating his mission from fraternity into Divinity--from a mere brotherhood into sainthood. Tito authored a book entitled Quocunque Jeceris Stabit, which means, wherever you throw, it will stand.

thy soul; 11 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee.”

When wisdom enters your

heart: Solomon mentioned the idea of protection relevant to wisdom (Proverbs 2:7-8). Now he explains that something happens when we gain wisdom. When we value God’s Word.

And knowledge is pleasant to

your soul. Proverbs 2:10-11 asserts that Wisdom gives both pleasure and surefootedness in life. The more wisdom one learns, the more one desires and enjoys it.

The protection wisdom gives, moreover, is that it keeps its follower from making decisions that will later bring only regret.

Spiritual joy mortifies sin.

His mouth hankers not after homely provision that hath lately tasted of delicate sustenance.

Pleasure there must be in the ways of God, because therein men let out their souls into God that is the fountain of all good. Hence they so infinitely distaste sin’s tasteless fooleries.

Discretion shall preserve you:

We need God’s protection to gain wisdom (Proverbs 2:7-8), but wisdom also protects us.

Understanding shall keep you:

From many foolish choices and harmful consequences in life.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

Copyright @ www.boatloadpuzzles.com

HOROSCOPE

Copyright @ www.horoscope.com

The Universe will ask you to do some serious purging this month, dear Aries, as three planets make their way through transformative Scorpio and the sector of your chart that governs death and rebirth. Use this energy to move away from people or situations that have been weighing you down as you recommit to those that support and lift you. Meanwhile, Mars, your planetary ruler, is in the midst of its retrograde journey through Gemini and asking you to reflect upon the actions that have led you to this point.

“Harmony” will be a keyword for you this month, dear Taurus, as the sun, Venus and Mercury continue to journey through Scorpio and your solar seventh house. These vibes are all about embracing healthy companionship, grace and self-care as the stars encourage you to lean into love. Unfortunately, rocky waters might manifest when Venus opposes Uranus on November 5, threatening to usher in some unexpected drama while throwing you for a major loop.

The power of change will be on your side this month, sweet Gemini, as the sun, Mercury and Venus travel through transformative Scorpio and your solar sixth house. This cosmic climate encourages you to adopt new and healthier habits, though proceeding with this personal evolution will take dedication and hard work on your part. Unfortunately, with Mars traveling in reverse through your sign, finding the motivation and momentum to modify your ways might feel like an uphill battle.

You’ll be filled with artistic inspiration and creative ideas this month, dear Cancer, as the sun, Mercury and Venus glide through Scorpio and the sector of your chart that governs self-expression. Use this energy as an excuse to let your imagination run wild, as long as doing so feels good and is providing you with reasons to be optimistic. Unfortunately, the vibe could turn at a moment’s notice as Mars moves retrograde through the sector of your chart that governs the subconscious.

The Universe is asking you to process a lot right now, sweet Leo, as the sun, Mercury and Venus all travel through Scorpio and your solar fourth house. This celestial dance encourages you to nurture your heart and mind while taking an honest look at your identity and what’s important to you. Scorpio season dares you to be vulnerable, so you might feel less career-focused and more concerned with family matters or intimate connections. However, there could also be particularly intense moments, because the stars align to reveal where there might be abuse or toxicity in your dynamics.

Your wit will be quick and your instincts strong this month, dear Virgo, as the sun, Mercury and Venus all travel through Scorpio and the sector of your chart that governs communication and thought processes. A hunger for new information and truth drives you right now, though these vibes can border on the obsessive, so you’ll need to keep tabs on the amount of detail you ingest in one sitting. The psychic nature of this cosmic climate allows you to read others more easily, though setting boundaries will be important when it comes to protecting your own energy. Financial growth and future security will take up the bulk of your focus this month, dear Libra, as the sun, Mercury and Venus travel through Scorpio. This cosmic climate can trigger your need for stability, inspiring you to build something that can stand the test of time. Luckily, you’ll also have an edge when it comes to business negotiations, so don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re worth. If you’re in a serious relationship, discussions around operating as a fiscal team might manifest around November 6, helping you and your partner get on the same page monetarily.

The cosmic climate this month is a bittersweet one for you, dear Scorpio, because the stars align to bring you both blessings and challenges. On the one hand, you’ll be feeling clearheaded and motivated to wholeheartedly work toward your goals as the sun, Mercury and Venus all travel through your sign. Unfortunately, Mars, your planetary ruler, is in the midst of its retrograde journey through Gemini, which could cause you to second-guess your abilities.

There will be a wellspring of activity happening below the surface for you this month, dear Sagittarius, as the sun, Venus and Mercury make their way through the sector of your chart that governs the subconscious. The transformative nature of the Scorpion’s energy can push you to evolve past old beliefs or behaviors that no longer align with who you are, as your impending solar return asks you to examine how you can grow throughout the next year. Unfortunately, thanks to the retrograde journey of Mars through Gemini, change won’t come as simply as you might hope.

You might feel as though your social circle is revolving around you this month, dear Capricorn, as the sun, Mercury and Venus travel through Scorpio and the sector of your chart that governs the community. This cosmic climate inspires you to organize gatherings with your nearest and dearest, though a temptation to play matchmaker among your friends could also come into play. Don’t be afraid to blend your friendship groups or help others get ahead through arranging connections, understanding that there are enough opportunities and love to go around.

Finding a balance between work and play might be a tall order this month, dear Aquarius, as the sun, Mercury and Venus travel through the sector of your chart that governs career ambitions. This celestial dance will open major doors for you professionally, though these opportunities won’t come without their hang-ups, especially when Venus opposes Uranus on November 5.

ACROSS

1. Slighty we 5. Deep cut 9. Adam's partner 12. Toledo's waterfront 13. Opening wager 14. Pen point 15. Longing for something past 17. Bar bill 18. Smudge 19. Blooper 21. Sooner 23. Pollute 26. Mayday! 27. Casino game 28. Hear 32. Decrease 34. Over again 35. Espionage org. 36. Slow mover 38. Begin again 43. Trap 45. Avid 46. Snow runner 48. Car evaluation (2 wds.) 50. Koppel or Kennedy 51. Interested by 52. Extra 53. Grow old 54. Snout 55. Glimpses

DOWN

1. Thickly populated 2. Scent 3. Penny pincher 4. Flower feature 5. Guy's companion 6. Enrages 7. Agitate 8. Valentine symbol 9. Diary items 10. Through 11. Wane 16. Get up 20. Acorn droppers 22. Long period 24. Compass point (abbr.) 25. Coal measure 28. ____ Vegas 29. Lodge 30. Beach 31. Look-alike 32. Little white ___ 33. Conforted 35. Tops of waves 37. Old Roman language 39. Canvass covers 40. Nimble 41. Musical show 42. Ringlet 44. Nevada town 46. Amtrak terminal (abbr.) 47. Barrel 49. Shoe tip

October 2022 Crossword's Solution

Though Scorpio season tends to be one of the more intense and rocky times of the year, you’ll benefit from some additional support from beyond the veil as a series of celestial bodies travel through your solar ninth house. That’s right, dear Pisces: While other members of the zodiac are struggling with personal upheaval, you’ll be flying high on a cloud of optimism and faith in the bigger picture.

October 2022 Issue Sudoku's Solution

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. The rules are simple, fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain one instance of each of the numbers 1 through 9.

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

Giselle General

gqgeneral@gmail.com

Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region of the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, and has a career in the nonprofit sector. She works at the Edmonton Community Legal Centre, which provides free legal help to low-income Edmontonians. She channels her creativity by writing in her personal blog, FilipinaYEG, and self-published a book called The Humanity of Me, and is active in numerous volunteerbased initiatives.

Last October 13, 2022, the Office of the Mayor organized a media roundtable for ethnic media outlets to ask questions directly to Major Amarjeet Sohi regarding his first year in office. The most recent election took place last October 18, 2021 resulting in the mayor’s first term in office as well as the election of eight new councillors, forming the new City Council. This is a summary of the key points asked by the media outlets that attended.

He summarized the first year as a time with a lot of learning and relationship-building, with great focus on business organizations and advancing COVID recovery. Downtown’s economic recovery is crucial for his first year in office. Industrial growth is ongoing, increasing tax base to improve city services.

He addressed the city’s antiracism strategy and said there is grant funding for organizations related to Reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action. There is also an Anti-Black Racism Strategy under development. He is working on a strong equity lens in work for the past year and work for the remaining years in the term.

When asked about changes to help individuals from ethnocultural communities find employment with the city, he says the city is committed to having a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community. The mayor wants to have further change in staffing in the next years, especially in areas of transit, community services and fire rescue. One thing to note is that since employment with the city is a stable job, open opportunities are subject to staff turnover which may be slow. The city wants to create space and connection for multicultural and racialized entrepreneurs to contact the city for information. The city is also working on change to procurement process to support small businesses. $1.2 Million is allocated to support festivals and provide artist recovery from COVID, a portion dedicated for multicultural groups.

He is also will looking into discussing the City Charter with the new premier. He believes that municipalities, especially Edmonton and Calgary, need more authority and more financial capacity as well as more permanent sustainable, long-term funding.

Regarding transit, he says that LRT system has improved, and ridership is almost at pre-pandemic levels, faster than other cities in Canada. Numerous safety and security measures are being implemented, including the Community Outreach Transit Team (COTT).

Regarding supporting the youth of the city, the mayor appreciated the dynamic involvement of youth with getting involved with the city and getting their voice heard. They primarily do this through the Edmonton Youth Council, giving input on ensuring that city amenities are accessible to youth such as libraries and transit. Youth are keen on having good infrastructure to enable other transportation modes. One goal is to have more youth internships with the city and to also set up a Living Wage Policy with the city.

Addressing homelessness is a great priority with advocating for better housing and health care funding from the provincial government and to invest more in Edmonton. The advocacy is paying off and there is a recent announcement of 350 more shelter spaces in the near future.

The mayor also discussed the upcoming budget. He says there are inflationary pressures, and coupled with reality, this means that the city has not fully recovered economically. This is a serious consideration when discussing raising taxes. The city is reviewing budget items line by line while striving to give basic core services. Many believe Edmonton City Council has direct control of the police, which is not true. Edmonton Police is accountable to the commission which has two city councillors in it. This lack of clarity is causing confusion. The only thing that the City Council as a whole can do is to make changes in the budget total amount. There’s no ability to dictate specific police budget items while many city departments and expenses still remain underfunded. Edmonton is the first city to do Carbon Budgeting and have to work on how to measure and account in a way that balances the financial commitment.

Thank you to the mayor’s office for arranging this interview opportunity.

Birthdays are everyone’s most cherished moment as this is when we celebrate the covenant between life and its Giver. Nobody is born alone. There are two causes of life that we have to acknowledge, appreciate, and recognize. The first is the Ultimate Cause or Giver, our God and the second are the proximate causes, our parents. Now, He who doesn’t acknowledge, appreciate, and recognize his or her life is also rejecting its Causes. Lucky are these individuals who truly celebrate life with significant people around them. May you all continue to share the gift of life with others. Active co-existence follows essence.

KASSANDRA REYES TURNS 18: Goodbye Childhood, Welcome to Ladyhood!

L-R: Levy Reyes (Dad), Karen Reyes (Mom), Elizabeth (Grandma), Krizia (younger sister); Front: Kassandra, the debutant The debutant, Albert Dizon, Allan San Pedro, Levy Reyes (Kassandra’s dad), Nilo Aboy, and Lito Velasco

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NOEL ANGELES!

Noel Angeles (November 15) Noel Angeles’ family and friends

Ninia Dizon with her 24th birthday cake last November 7th 2022 Ninia Dizon was visibly overwhelmed by this group of well-wishers during the celebration of her 24th birthday last November 7, 2022. Congratulations to Elmina (Erling) Magnaye Arcilla, recipient of the Emy Angeles Memorial Award 2022 for Exemplary Service and Dedication to Filipino Retirees Association of Alberta. Awarded in Edmonton, Alberta at FRAA’s 39th Anniversary Celebration. A cheque of $300.00 and a revolving trophy was presented by Pol Angeles on behalf of Jose Angeles, donor of the cheque and trophy.

L-R Berna Angeles, President of FRAA Othella Koehler, Recipient Erling Magnaye Arcilla and Pol Angeles.

Cynthia Palmaria enjoying a simple birthday celebration last October 29, 2022. Happy birthday, Cynthia! Engaged couple - George Jocson Jr (well known Basketball Player in majority of the leagues in Edmonton & Area) with fiancée Chandra Mendis (RCIC with Canadian Immigration Group) are also November celebrants (Nov 2 & Nov 11). Photo by Abigail Orena of Abotz Photography.

HAPPY 63rd Birthday Beth