NorthWord is Seeking Poetry Submissions

Harmony – what does it mean to you? How do you express it in words, photos, blogs, art? It is the theme of the next issue of NorthWord Magazine.

Please feel free to submit your poetic works. The deadline is March 30, 2012. All entries are judged blindly – so no names are on the pieces. To submit your poem, the e-mail address is: northword@hushmail.com.

The Northern Ice Project Exhibition

Here is an exciting exhibition featuring Lucie Bause, one of the artists who participated the 2011 Artist in Residency program in Fort McMurray. 

I am pleased to announce the opening of The Northern Ice Project exhibition March 3-10 at Elevation Gallery in Canmore, AB 

The Northern Ice Project is a project based on an arctic expedition to observe Canada's northern landscapes and to respond artistically by creating artwork which honors the phenomenon of Northern Ice.

If you are nearby and can make it to the opening reception on Saturday, March 3 from 2-5PM it would be wonderful to see you there! 

If you are too far away or unavailable, please feel free to view some of the artwork online: luciebauseart.blogspot.com or http://www.elevationgallery.ca

Thank-you!

Best,

Lucie

Workshop Opportunity: Taxation for Artists

Taxation for Artists: Workshop, presented by Visual Arts Alberta

March 10, 2012
1:00pm – 3:00pm
with Roger Thomson, CA.

Free workshop for CARFAC or VAAA members ($10 for non-members). Workshop takes place at Woodcroft Library (13420-114 Ave.) in Edmonton and covers accounting practices, what to look for in an accountant, recording expenses, varieties of income and Revenue Canada’s record requirements.

Contact VAAA to reserve your spot by email or telephone 780.421.1731.
Limited Seating.

Banff Centre Announces the NBCUniversal Training Program

 Apply by March 9, 2012

This new work study program, sponsored by NBCUniversal, provides the opportunity for a production team to advance their creative and technical skills in visual storytelling. Practical skills are matured through the development of digital film, television and transmedia projects. This program encompasses 3 positions – that of the Producer / Director, the Videographer and the 

Editor. 

Team members work and learn through exposure to a wide range of projects under supervision and mentorship from Banff Centre staff, faculty, associated work studies and artists. Over the course of the program, participants will collaborate with project directors, editors, graphic artists, animators and sound design teams on a wide range of project genres including (but not limited to): marketing / promotional, documentary, drama, and artist installations. 

Participants will advance their ability to produce to schedule with fixed / budgeted resources.

To learn more about the program, the qualification requirements and how to apply, please click HERE.

WinterPLAY: March 1st & 2nd

Interactive session on RISK & REWARD

What activities or situations make your stomach drop simply by thinking about them?
What is at risk when you decide to move forward beyond the fear?
How do you feel when that risk pays off?

This session explores our relationship with risk – not only physical risk, but where risk exists in our life decisions - personal and in business.

On Thursday, March 8, join an interactive session on RISK & REWARD facilitated by Geoff Powter, author of “Strange and Dangerous Dreams: the Fine Line between Adventure and Madness”, clinical psychologist, speaker, the Banff Center faculty and senior facilitator from the Pacific Center for Leadership.

Where? Nistawoyou Friendship Center (8310 Manning Ave.)
When? March 8th, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. (Refreshments will be provided)

Attendees are asked to pay a nominal $10 fee. The funds raised will be donated to a local non-profit organization.

To register please follow the link: http://lwbriskreward.eventbrite.com/

Please feel free to circulate this invitation to anyone who might be interested.

* *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * ***

Alexandra Tarasenco,
Executive Director
Leadership Wood Buffalo
P.O. Box 22032, Fort McMurray, T9H 5B6, AB
tel. 780 838 3883
ed@leadershipwoodbuffalo.com
www.leadershipwoodbuffalo.com

"The art or leading others starts with the art of leading oneself..."

MacDonald Island Community Art Gallery presents "Collections: Details and Distances"

Collections: Details and Distances is the work of local artists Helen Hendriks and Sally Lockhart. The exhibition, which includes oil, acrylic, and watercolour paintings, is an exploration of the environment, geography, and natural surroundings – both in Alberta and from regions around the world.

The MacDonald Island Community Art Gallery presented by Kirschner Family Corporation would like to invite the public to the opening of the Collections: Details and Distances exhibition on Thursday, March 1, 7:00 p.m.

For more information please contact: anamaria.mendez@macdonaldisland.ca 

--

Ana Maria Mendez-Barks

WinterPLAY Program: Feb 27 & 28th

KAOS 91.1 5yr Celebration

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Fort McMurray

Media Launch

Join us Thursday, March 29 at Lots O' Tots for the Media Launch of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Mayor Blake will be present to read the first book you receive with Imagination Library The Little Engine That Could. The rest of the program will also be based on The Little Engine That Could.


Fort McMurray Launch
When: Sunday, April 1 from 1-4
Where: Suncor Community Leisure Centre on MacDonald Island Field House
What: Kiosks to register your child in the program (newborn-5 years), bouncy castles, reading zones, mascots, face painting, baby play area, craft stations and snacks!




Once registered with Imagination Library, children will receive a book FREE once a month until they turn 5. The first book to be received is "The Little Engine that could", the last book to be received is "Look out Kindergarten, here I come".

WinterPlay Program: Feb 24 - 26th

Shootout on the Snye!

WinterPLAY: Events Feb 24 - 26th

Celebrate An Evening of the Arts with NorthWord at winterPLAY

NorthWord magazine and Events Wood Buffalo cordially invite you to the launch event for our sixth issue, which features a theme of Sin. Celebrate An Evening of the Arts with NorthWord at winterPLAY on Friday, February 24, 2012 at The Post Gallery – in Keyano College.

There will be musicians, readings from authors published in the sixth issue, art and an open microphone, giving everyone a chance to share their inner artist at the free event.

"Events Wood Buffalo is delighted to be part of the launch of NorthWord's latest issue. We're very excited that the launch is happening in the Post, Fort McMurray's new public art gallery, and during the 2012 Syncrude winterPLAY festival. We're very much looking forward to experiencing a 'Sinful' celebration of the arts," said David Whitelock, Executive Director of Events Wood Buffalo.

Jennifer Hemstock, President, Northern Canda Collective Society for Writers (NCCSW), publishers of NorthWord magazine echoed similar sentiments.

“The launch event for our sixth issue is a special one for the NorthWord group. For the first time we are partnering with Events Wood Buffalo and participating in winterPLAY. The Post gallery is the perfect venue for an evening of literature, music and socializing. We hope everyone will join us to celebrate our sixth issue and look forward to the next half dozen,” said Hemstock.

Local writer and blogger Kevin Thornton is the guest editor of this issue, who looks forward to meeting everyone.

Based in Fort McMurray, Alberta the NCCSW publishes NorthWord twice yearly, rotating editors and themes from issue to issue.

The group is now accepting submissions for issue number seven, to be edited by local writer and journalist Kiran Malik-Khan. The theme is Harmony. The deadline is March 30, 2012.

Short stories or excerpts from current projects, fiction or non-fiction (3000 words maximum), verse of no more than 50 lines, along with anything surprising, original, or inventive can be submitted to the editors at northword@hushmail.com.

NorthWord is available for sale at the Keyano College Bookstore, Coles, Frames and More, Airport Gift Shop, and Chow’s Varieties.

Review copies are available upon request.

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/northword.

For more information, please contact:

Kiran Malik-Khan
Media Director
Northern Canada Collective Society for Writers
780-791-8971
c: 780-880-7666
northerncanadacollective@gmail.com

The Fort McMurray African Association presents I Make Black History 2012

The Fort McMurray African Association Presents:

I Make Black History 2012

Date: February 24, 2012
Time: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: The Sawridge Hotel
Formal Dress
Caribbean Musical group will be in performance.

Date: February 25, 2012
Time: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: Dr. Clark Public School
Cultural Show and Cuisine from the Diaspora

For more information contact:
Regina_oppon@yahoo.co.uk
Or call: 780-838-8177

April Verch Band

April Verch is an internationally renowned Canadian fiddler, singer/songwriter and step dancer. On Friday February 24th Syncrude Arts Alive presents an evening with the The April Verch Band at the Keyano Recital Theatre.

Verch's performance is a nod to our cultural history and a wink to modern Celtic, Jazz, Folk, and Bluegrass music. April's joy is making music and creating an atmosphere of beauty while showcasing remarkable talent.

As a full time touring artist, April requires an immense commitment to her passion and a team that is strong enough to take the creative journey with her. The April Verch Band consists of world-class musicians Hayes Griffin on guitar and Cody Walters on upright-electric bass and banjo.

Guests can expect a fine tuned evening with a unique and energetic blend of music by the most in-demand performers in roots music today.

Performance: February 24 at 8pm Recital Theatre. Tickets on sale now! Price: $33 (adult), $28 (student/senior) Call the Keyano Box Office at 780-791-4990 or visit keyano.ca/theatre

Stay in touch with the arts at Keyano Theatre & Arts Centre.
LIKE us on FACEBOOK and FOLLOW us on TWITTER.
Real people | stories | performances at your fingertips.

For more information, please contact:

Misty Oakes
Marketing Coordinator, Arts & Special Events
Keyano Theatre & Arts Centre
Keyano College

Office: 780-791-4995
Fax: 780-791-4914
Cell: 780-531-1263
misty.oakes@keyano.ca

Celebrate Cultural Diversity

Celebrate Black History Month

February is Black History Month in Canada and the United States. The Fort McKay African Cultural Centre is pleased to invite you to celebrate the launch of Black History Month in Fort McMurray Venue: The Boys and Girls Club, 20 Riedel Street.


Date: February 25th, 2012
Time: 11AM - 6 PM
Cost: Free


Music, Poetry, African Cultural Dance, Tropical Tastes, Drama, Models, ETC.


Donations welcome.


Contact: 780.742.6090

WinterPlay Events: Feb 19 - 22

Heritage Salon Series: Edmonton's Heritage Council

Growing Together: Culture, Heritage, and Tradition in Edmonton

In celebration of Black History Month, The Edmonton Heritage Council and The Afrikan History Library Project present Salon Africa. Join them for an evening of conversation about Edmonton's African communities, Caribbean cuisine and refreshments, and performances by the Wajjo Drummers. Special guests include Dr. Ali Abdi, and Dr. Peter K. Puplampu.

Salon Africa
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Prince of Wales Armouries (10440 108 Avenue)

6pm Food + Refreshments
7pm Speakers + Conversation
Performances to follow

This event is free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to:
e: info@edmontonheritage.ca
p: 780.429.0166 ext. 233

Visit the National Black Coalition of Canada website for other Black History Month events.

2012 Rozsa Awards and 10th Anniversary Photo Contest

Join Councillor Mike Allen, 2012 Rozsa Award Jury Member and owner of Campbell's Music in supporting arts managers across Alberta and nominate a Wood Buffalo Arts Manager!

EXPOSE EXCELLENCE
Only one week remains to nominate an outstanding arts administrator for the 2012 Rozsa Award for Excellence in Arts Management. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the prestigious provincial award now provides over $135,000 in cash and benefits. Nomination forms are available at www.rozsafoundation.org and must be submitted by February 23.

Organizations are encouraged to further “expose excellence” by sending a revealing photo of their own management team pictured with a piece of art and be entered to win $500 to give to a 2012 Rozsa Award nominee of their choice. Photos will be posted on Facebook and the one with the most “likes” will win. Photo deadline is June 1.

The Rozsa Award is all about best business practices that enable artistic risk-taking. Join with Rozsa Award partners Deloitte, The Hay Group, the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary, the Business School at the University of Alberta, CKUA, Structured Abstraction and the Banff Centre, to bring our arts managers from back stage to centre stage by completing a nomination form today. Together, we will expose excellence!

BACKGROUND
The Rozsa Award for Excellence in Arts Management was created in 2002 in honour of the Drs. Ted and Lola Rozsa, in order to recognize, celebrate and promote excellence in arts management. Since that time, the Rozsa Award has expanded in geographic reach, value and award categories. Please see the Rozsa Foundation website for additional information including past recipients and impact of the award.

-30-

Mary Rozsa de Coquet
President, Rozsa Foundation
403-606-9257
mary@rozsafoundation.org
www.rozsafoundation.org

Call to Artists: City of Calgary Public Art Program

Call to Artists : Mentorship Opportunity

The City of Calgary Public Art Program, in conjunction with the Utilities & Environmental Protection department, invites Alberta artists to submit their qualifications for four distinct WATERSHED+ public art mentorship opportunities.

WATERSHED+ is a visionary pilot program which aspires to creatively renew the relationship between Calgarians and their watershed. The program presents a unique approach to public art and a distinct way of working within City departments, the public, and stakeholders. Artists and artistic practitioners are embedded within Water Services and Water Resources, participating as members of infrastructure design teams, and contributing to project design, development of events, community projects, education and communication.

As part of the WATERSHED+ pilot, mentorship opportunities are being offered to Alberta artists who are interested in the field of contemporary public art, specifically in the areas of:

1. Public art project development and implementation
2. Visualization and design
3. Self-directed public art projects
4. Audit of process - specific WATERSHED+ project

Submission deadline: Deadline for all four opportunities is Friday, February 17, 2012 at 4 p.m. (MST). No extensions will be granted and late submissions will not be considered.


To see the full call:

1. City of Calgary site:  http://www.calgary.ca/CSPS/Recreation/Pages/Public-Art/Opportunities-for-artists.aspx 
2. PDF of full call: http://www.calgary.ca/CSPS/Recreation/Documents/Public-art/W+_mentorship_eoi.pdf

Attention Fort McMurray fine artists!

My name is Carmen, and I moved to Fort Mac in the fall from Victoria. My whole life I have painted, drawn, and created art of some kind. In the past I have been part of an art collective, and since leaving BC, I have found that I have been missing collaboration with fellow artists, discussing art, and missing the camaraderie that an art collective provides. I realize that there are some great art groups in town already, but I am hoping this group can be an outlet for emerging artists who are looking to grow through interaction with their peers. I feel that a person can learn so much from another person with different perspectives on life, and experience with different techniques and mediums.

I was hoping this could be a casual group for practising visual artists, not a guild or formalized society. We could meet once a week in an open studio. During the open studio, we can bring new projects, existing projects to work on, and just create in a collaborative, positive, creative environment. Once a month, artists could bring in work for a critique from fellow artists; nothing painful, but a positive way to collaborate, be inspired by different ideas, and grow from the opportunity and experience.

As of yet, this is all open for discussion. I think that together we can really create some great things; I would like to know if there are other people interested in this kind of thing, we could possibly make this a reality. 

 Please contact me with any comments or questions via e-mail: wbartcollective@gmail.com

Thanks,

Carmen

Keyano Theatre Company presents Chicago

Show Times:

Preview: February 16 at 8pm
Opening: February 17 at 8pm with a reception to follow
Shows: February 18, 22, 23, 24, 25 at 8 pm
Matinee: February 19 & 25 at 2 pm

Chicago is the quintessential Broadway musical that features everything you love: strong men, loose and dangerous women, amazing Kander and Ebb tunes, as well as some of the most heralded choreography in theatre history. Strap yourself in for a ride with the ladies from Cell Block C, as they make it clear why this show will be the hottest ticket in town. Its' so hot that we're performing it in the middle of winter, so the building doesn't burn down from the heat onstage.

Tickets available online at: www.keyano.ca/theatre

Welcome to the truly diverse WinterPLAY like never before

Welcome to the truly diverse WinterPLAY like never before

WinterPLAY has been with us for a while and it has been drawing people out of the comfort of their homes despite cold weather to entertain, socialize and warm their hearts to the changing dynamics of our beautiful city. It has been ever so successful over the years that this year we will see it span across three weeks from February 14 to March 3.

But what is exclusive and iconic this year is that for the first time ever, we will see a multicultural dimension take the main stage of entertainment in Fort McMurray.

Kudos to David Whitelock, the brain behind the programme that promises to cater to all aspects of our community. Join us as the grand panorama unfolds that is bound to draw, entertain and excite your senses.

The South Asian Art and Cultural Assn of Alberta supports winterPLAY in it's venture into Indian music, dance and culture and welcomes one and all to the experience the diversity of entertainment that is available right here in our community.

-- 

Mary Thomas
Fort Mcmurray

Introducing the Post, Fort McMurray’s new public art gallery

Fort McMurray, AB, February 8, 2012 - With its opening exhibition happening this month as part of the 2012 Syncrude winterPLAY Festival, Fort McMurray’s newest public art gallery offers an 1100 square foot presentation venue for contemporary art and programming. The opening exhibition is a two-person show featuring works by celebrated Albertan artists, David Janzen and Julian Forrest.

Located in the Keyano Theatre and Arts Centre, the Post is a space meant to foster dialogue, new understandings, and enjoyment in exploring the diversity of contemporary fine art. Part of the gallery’s mandate is to foster support for contemporary artists, as well as offering local artists professional development programming. The gallery will also highlight the work of local art studentsthrough annual projects such as the Tri High Student Exhibit, the Graduation Show of the Keyano Visual Arts diploma program, and A Winter Affair.

Reflecting the diversity of approaches that exist within contemporary art, the Post’s exhibition calendar will offer the Wood Buffalo Region an opportunity to see significant work by established and emerging artists. A diverse array of exhibitions, guided tours, and late night events will be available throughout the year. The Post aims to be a centre of collaboration and exploration for visual arts. Serving both the urban area of Fort McMurray and the rural hamlets of the region, the gallery will host a minimum of six curated exhibitions yearly.

The name and brand of this new gallery speak to our vision of building support and appreciation for the arts. Created by design team Kriza Borromeo and Matthew Kim, the Post’s brand references the history of the Wood Buffalo Region while representing the gallery’s contemporary sensibilities with the circle as a strong icon of completion, connection, and life. The font selected embodiesFort McMurray's youthful and growing community. To reflect the naturally occurring aurora borealis seen here within our northern geography, a bright blue was chosen as a spin on our particular blend of the aurora.

“We wanted a fresh look that captured the youthful and creative community here in Fort McMurray. The branding speaks to our desire to connect with people of all ages. We want to provide new and exciting experiences in an atmosphere that piques the imagination, encourages creativity and critical thinking,” said Connor Buchanan, Volunteer Curator/Director.

'Suddenly' Works by Julian Forrest & David Janzen 

Images: Left: Platter 004, David Janzen                     Right: Stop Resisting, Julian Forrest

The inaugural show will be open to the public as of February 18th. Gallery hours will be dependent on volunteers. Volunteers of the Post will receive gallery training and enjoy various professional development opportunities. If you are interested in getting involved or to find out more about the gallery, please email the curator at: thepost@eventswoodbuffalo.com

An Events Wood Buffalo initiative, the Post is grateful for the generosity of the many donors and sponsors who have made this new addition to Fort McMurray’s cultural landscape a reality. The Post would not exist without the ongoing support of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, The Canada Council for the Arts, Cindy Amerongen and Keyano College. 

Hours of Operation as of February 18, 2012: 
Tues – Fri: 5 pm – 9 pm
Sat: 10 am – 6 pm

Media Contact:
Brea Burton
Marketing & Communications Manager
Events Wood Buffalo
780-791-1600
www.eventswoodbuffalo.com
www.winterplay.ca

WinterPLAY - At a Glance

If you've yet to pick up your WinterPLAY brochure do not fret they are still available at MacDonald Island Park, and we will be uploading various pages here for your information as well throughout the the next three weeks. A great place to learn all about WinterPlay is on the event website: www.winterplay.ca

To see the below schedule or pages in a larger format simply left click anywhere on the image and a larger image should pop up on your screen.

Valentines Fireworks Tomorrow Night!

Accounting Standards for Nonprofits

Hello!
You are invited to the following event:  23 Feb -Accounting Standards for Nonprofits

Event to be held at the following time, date, and location: 

23 Feb 2012
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

The Redpoll Centre
#200-10010 Franklin Avenue
Fort Mcmurray, Alberta T9H 2K6
Canada 

Cost: Free , light meal will be provided by MNP.
Facilitator: Marla Dorin of MNP.
_____________________________________________________

As a result of recent changes in accounting standards, Not for Profit Organizations (NPO's) may report under several financial reporting frameworks: International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS); CICA Handbook: Part III - Accounting...
Read More and register here! (Limited seating, please register early.)

We hope you can make it!

Cheers,
Nonprofit Sector Link Wood Buffalo

This lunch and learn is sponsored in part by MNP and Unitedway of Fort McMurray
Sector Link would like to take this opportunity to specially thank MNP for providing luch for the participants of this workshop- thank-you!

Family Day at the Oil Sands Discovery Centre

Astronomy Adventures!
Free Family Day Event Oil Sands Discovery Centre 
Monday, February 20, 2012
10:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.

Auditions for “Maggie’s Getting Married”

Script by Norm Foster

Artistic Director Shauna Lee Allen 

Auditions held at two locations:

Keyano Theatre - Room, AC 134

Monday, February 13, 6:00-10:00 

Westwood Community High School Theatre -

Wednesday, February 15th, 6:00-10:00

Actors required – 3 males, 3 females of various ages.

Flexible rehearsal scheduling  

Show Dates:  May 7-13, 2012 

Contact: shaunalee44@hotmail.com to set up audition times

For more information check out Katie’s Playhouse Facebook page

Writing in the Workplace

We have 5 seats in “Writing in the Workplace” running on Friday, February 17 that we can offer to the Community Network members at a special rate of $49.00 + GST instead of regular $199.00+ GST. 

Writing in the Workplace – Feb 17 (F) --- 5 seats available
You will learn 

• Write effective and persuasive business communications, such as e-mails and letters 
• Identify your target audience by conducting an audience analysis 
• Proofread 
• Avoid the pitfalls of faulty tone and grammar 
• Use punctuation correctly and appropriately, to avoid costly mistakes 

Date: Feb 17, 2012
Day: Friday
Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Fee: $199.00 + GST ----- $49 + GST

Registration: Call 780-792-2688, and let our Office of the Registrar know that you are a Community Network member.

This special offer ends Feb 15th.

Regards,

Miyuki Schulz
Operations Specialist - Student Relations & Marketing
Continuing Education
Keyano College
8115 Franklin Avenue
Fort McMurray, AB T9H 2H7
( ph. 1-780.791-4898)

7 Habits for Highly Effective People

Suncor Energy Inc. and the Suncor Energy Foundation (SEF) are pleased offer senior leaders in the voluntary sector Covey’s "7 Habits for Highly Effective People" Leadership programs again this year.

Suncor is offering three positions at each of their 2012 Fort McMurray sessions, with each session being three full days. As part of our commitment to the community, we are pleased to be able to make this opportunity available for senior leaders in the voluntary sector. This learning opportunity is facilitated by Covey-trained Suncor leaders and is offered several times a year. As stated, Suncor is offering three positions at each of their Fort McMurray sessions for Executive Directors, or leadership team level employees, of registered charitable organizations (must have a CRA# or able to partner with such an organization). Each session is three full days from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and organizations are limited to one person/session, with extra names placed on a waiting list. When providing names, please include a title, email address and phone number, CRA# as well as your organization’s complete legal name and mailing address.

Please note that you will be invoiced for a maximum $1,000.00 per participant (the cost of running this program) by the Suncor department that does the coordination, Organizational Effectiveness (“OE”). Once you have sent your payment to the OE representative (Laura Kinaschuk), the Suncor Energy Foundation will then forward a cheque back to your charitable organization to cover the expense, which will serve as a contribution to your charitable organization.

The focus of this workshop is on increasing individual effectiveness both at work and home. Based on the proven principles found in Stephen R. Covey’s best-selling business book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” the workshop helps Suncor achieve sustained results by focusing on increasing individual effectiveness. Participants gain hands-on experience, applying timeless principles that yield greater productivity, improved communication, strengthened relationships, increased influence, and laser-like focus on critical priorities.

Workshop Dates:
Mar. 6 - 8  Apr. 17-19

May 3 - 5
Jun. 12 - 14 

Sep. 18 - 20  

Oct. 2 - 4 

Oct. 30 – Nov. 1 
Nov. 20 - 22 

Please contact Tracey Carnochan (tacarnochan@suncor.com) or at (780)588-3415 to apply or for further information.

CALL FOR PROPOSALS: VISUALEYEZ 2012

The Thirteenth annual Visualeyez festival of performance art happens from 10–16 September 2012 in the downtown core of Edmonton, Alberta, exploring on the curatorial theme of loneliness.

Visualeyez takes place over a period of seven days and it is required that all invited artists are able to attend for the entire length of the festival. Artists experience the work of other artists; engage in discussion groups, meals and other activities that enhance the work of individual artists and the performance art community within Canada and beyond. It is important that prior to submitting that artist is available for a minimum of six days during the festival. Please visit visualeyez.org for the past festival information.

Curator and Founder of Visualeyez, Todd Janes states, “Visualeyez 2012 builds upon notions of an ever-expanding and more urban city. This theme will explore issues such as emotional versus social isolation, chronic and transient states of loneliness within the city and our inter-relationships with crowds, emptiness and intimacy. I want to present artists that will explore the theme of loneliness and enhance dialogues regarding the societal issues, community connectivity and understanding of the concept and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.”

Proposals should include: a CV; artist statement; a detailed description of the work you wish to present, or explore; and support material that can include images, video, print or digital documentation of your work, catalogues, and press.

The deadline for submission is Friday, 27 April 2012.

If you would like your materials returned to you, please also include sufficient postage or courier materials. Artists shall be contacted by mid-June 2012 regarding the status of their proposals.

Proposals by post to: Visualeyez 2012 Latitude 53 Contemporary Visual Culture 10248 106 Street, Edmonton, Alberta Canada T5J 1H5 Attention: Todd Janes, Executive Director

Proposals by email to: todd.janes@latitude53.org. Please be courteous of image size and materials that you are sending. Please place Visualeyez 2012 submission in the subject line.

Statistics Canada is now on Social Media

The following information is taken from the Statistics Canada Website, located at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/

Statistics Canada, a member of the Industry Portfolio, produces statistics that help Canadians better understand their country—its population, resources, economy, society and culture.

In addition to conducting a Census every five years, there are about 350 active surveys on virtually all aspects of Canadian life.  In Canada, providing statistics is a federal responsibility. As Canada’s central statistical office, Statistics Canada is legislated to serve this function for the whole of Canada and each of the provinces and territories.

Objective statistical information is vital to an open and democratic society. It provides a solid foundation for informed decisions by elected representatives, businesses, unions and non-profit organizations, as well as individual Canadians. As a member of the United Nations Statistical Commission, Statistics Canada endorses the Fundamental principles of official statistics. 

Statistics Canada offers information on Culture and Leisure

This cultural  information includes: Information on creative artistic activities and the goods and services produced by these activities; the preservation of cultural heritage; and personal activities not required for paid work, studies, or family or social obligations.  This information is available for the public and is valuable for anyone completing research, applying for grants, building programs or working within the cultural sector.

It is now even easier to access the information at Statistics Canada, because it can now be found on social media, including FaceBook and Twitter!

Statistics Canada on Facebook (English): http://www.facebook.com/statisticscanada

Statistics Canada on Facebook (French): facebook.com/StatistiqueCanada

Statistics Canada on Twitter (English): twitter.com/StatCan_eng

Statistics Canada on Twitter (French): twitter.com/StatCan_fra

Education in our Province

The Alberta School Boards Association is seeking your input and feedback on important issues affecting Education in our Province. The ASBA is holding four “Conversation on Education Cafes” in the Province, and they are excited to host one of the Cafes right here in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. 

We are extending an invitation for you to join us and participate in this event. 

Conversation on Education Café
February 15, 2012
9:30 am to 11:30 am
Where: Holy Trinity Catholic High School

Please RSVP to: Tracy.McKinnon@fmcsd.ab.ca

We would like to thank Fort McMurray Catholic Board of Education and the Fort McMurray Public School District No. 2833 for hosting this event in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.

Decadent Pink Needs Volunteers!

Decadent Pink is looking for Volunteers for the event this weekend. We are in NEED!

Available shifts include:

·          Thursday, February 9: 3:30pm to 10:00pm (set up – includes setting up many tables and chairs, and putting pipe and drape on rods.  It is easy work; however, it takes lots of time and man power).

·          Friday, February 10: all day and evening 9:30am-1:30pm and 1:30pm - 6:30pm (these shifts involve set-up duties) and 6:30pm to the end of the event

·          Saturday, February 11: all day and evening (9:30am - 1:30pm, 1:30pm - 6:30pm, and 6:30 to close)

Please share this with anyone that may be interested in helping out. We will not turn down any help at all because we need volunteers.

If you have any question or would like volunteer to help us raise Money for the Fort McMurray Family Crisis Society call Donna Fetzko at 780.792.7603.

Donna Fetzko

780.792.7603

Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce Notice of Election and Nomination

Call for Nominations  |  Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

The Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce has been supporting business and strengthening our community since 1906. They are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life by actively supporting business, economic growth and diversification.

 The policies and programs of the Chamber are determined by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by the membership. Each elected Director will serve a two-year term, sit on at least one committee or task force and are expected to be active participants of Chamber events. Nominations for the 2012-2014 Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors will close on February 16, 2012.

Candidates for election shall be members of the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce in good standing; shall agree in writing to stand for election; and shall be nominated in writing by a member of the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce in good standing.
 To be nominated requires:

• completion of the Statement of Nominators
• completion of the Statement of Nominee
• delivery of the completed nomination form to the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce, #304, 9612 Franklin Avenue, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 2J9 by 5pm, or attend the final call for nomination luncheon that takes place on February 16, 2012.
   

Email fmcoc@telus.net to have a nomination package sent to you or pick up a nomination package at the Fort McMurray Chamber office, #304, 9612 Franklin Avenue, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 2J9

   
Deadline for nominations will be held at the February 16, 2012 Networking Luncheon.  For more information, please contact the Chamber of Commerce at fmcoc@telus.net   

Sweater Day!

Time to make your granny proud! Pull out that “lovely” knitted sweater she gave you and support a great cause! World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Canada is calling on Canadians to turn down the heat and sport a sweater for one day.

On Thursday, February 9th, we ask that you wear a sweater and lower your thermostat at home a few degrees.

This shows you’re committed to taking action on climate change. We’ve asked schools across the RMWB to participate in this initiative! I’ve got my warm and cozy sweater picked out – do you have yours?

Turn down the heat! Turn up your sweater!

http://sweaterday.ca/

PS: Check out the Granny Call Centre videos and even book a Granny reminder call!!

Full Moon Cafe next Saturday!

Hello Full Moon Cafe friends!

The next Full Moon Cafe will be Saturday, February 18th at Waterways Community Hall. The feature will be local singer/ songwriter Selena Moss. All ages and talents welcome.

Confirmed Dates for 2012: Waterways Hall.
February 18 ( Family Day weekend)
March 17
April 21
May 26 
June 23 (Solstice weekend)  


NorthWord's release party for the 7th Issue: at the POST!
Our friends at NorthWord magazine are publishing their 7th issue of NorthWord. The release party will be at the newest art gallery in town -  the Post, which is located within the curved lower foyer of the Keyano Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday February 24th.

Also, check out the Program and media release attached from Events Wood Buffalo regarding WinterPLAY, Feb 14th to March 4th, or go to www.winterplay.ca for more information. 


 The Full Moon Cafe Live Music Stage will be included in the winterPLAYGROUND on the Snye (March 2nd, 3rd and 4th). A line up is being developed and will be revealed as details become available.


Presented by:

health, hope and happiness the Full Moon Cafe
http://fullmooncaf.blogspot.com/

TELUS and Keyano Theatre Company presents Chicago

"Murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery--all those things we hold near and dear to our hearts"

So begins the musical Chicago-the kiss-and-tell tale of Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who kills her lover as a career move; Billy Flynn, a sharp lawyer who turns Roxie into a celebrity; and Velma Kelly, a dancing jailbird with an ear for headlines and an eye for talent.

February 16*, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25 at 8pm
Matinee - February 19 and 25 at 2pm

February 16* - Preview
February 17 - Opening Reception


See this earlier blog post for more info: