Located on the Adam's Lake reserve, Chief Atahm Elementary relies on elders for its immersion program that teaches only in the local language, Secwepemctsin, from kindergarten to Grade 3. The school also provides instruction in traditional cultural practices, from plant identification and uses, to preserving meat. The involvement of local elders and parents has created a generation of children connected to their culture and community, and will hopefully halt the decline of the Secwepemctsin language.
Innovation in Surrey abounds! The soon to open City Centre Library will have an innovative program that enlists local residents, who are experts in various capacities, to be available on loan for ½ hour to 45 minute conversations.
Calgary's newly formed Community Investment Fund will direct $252 million over the next six years into community projects including a new central library, new recreation centres, and upgrades to community arenas, pools, parks and community associations and recreation groups. The investment in projects was made possible by the Province's decision to ease the provincial property tax, leaving the city with an extra $42 million dollars annually. All city quadrants will receive community upgrades.
Village Vancouver is a non-profit society that aims to inspire individuals and organizations to lead sustainable communities. They are actively helping communities in Vancouver become lower their carbon emissions and become more resilient. They use organizing tools such as blogs, conferences and informal gatherings to help facilitate the sharing of their visions. Learn more at the website.
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Water | November 16, 2009
The BC Liberals decision to cut arts funding is devastating to cultural sector, and longstanding organizations are at risk of folding because of 90% cuts to their provincial funding. Political figures, such as Heritage Minister James Moore, argue that arts funding is an essential component of an economic stimulus program during the recession, and that there is a strong fiscal argument for supporting the arts. Read the full story in The Tyee.
The National Film Board of Canada has just launched an online screening room. New films are added weekly. For now, check out the excellent documentaries "Carts of Darkness," and "Lonely Boy," and the classic, much loved animated shorts, "The Cat Came Back and "The Big Snit."
