#ALL THESE YEARS OF SPEAKING IN FRENCH AND LIVING IN A FRENCH PROVINCE

[wickedsrest-rp]

Name: Paris Gao Species: Lamia Occupation: Photographer  Age: 30 Years Old Played By: Caitlyn Face Claim: Ni Han Jin

"Trust is a mistake I won't make twice."

Born in the Guangxi province of China, Paris was first and foremost an Asian water monitor. Hatched in a bank of seven others, Paris is the youngest of five. As such, the other lamia in his family were careful of him, seeing his fierce curiosity as a problem, a liability bound to land him in trouble. Instead of being fearful and distrustful of other humans, Paris was curious with an insatiable desire to know more about the human world. His eldest brother, Louis, tried to dissuade him, that the reason their mother had disappeared was the same reason that he would too if he wasn’t careful. As he got older, Paris found his mother’s old camera. He took to it like a fish to water, taking photographs of different creatures from the habitat he lived in with his family. His siblings continued to keep a close eye on him, worried that he’d get too close to the very thing they hid from; humans. One day, he came across a tourist hiking through his usual hunting grounds. On the first day, Paris stayed hidden, photographing the man from a distance. The next day, he came back. Taking on the form of a human, Paris got closer, taking more photos. The next week, he was back, and they spoke for the first time. The man didn’t give his name, but they spoke about their interests, of Paris’s love of photography and the hiker’s love of hiking and exploring different cultures, not knowing the hidden danger this man posed to Paris.

After a few weeks, the man invited Paris to explore the surrounding area with him, and Paris, so trusting in this man, found himself taken into a laboratory under the guise that he would get to photograph an area he hadn’t seen before, only to find out that the man he’d put his trust in was a hunter who’d been tricking him the entire time. Paris had been made a fool. His trust in humans that day was decimated. The hunter took him into a laboratory, and from there, he became nothing more than a lab rat.

He’d moved around from laboratory to laboratory, like some kind of experimental marvel to the scientists who studied him. He was taught to speak English and French to make it easier for the scientists who studied him. Such a marvel of science he was to these people that the man who captured him all those years ago became something of a handler for Paris. And one day, the man came back. He told Paris that his name was Ryan. Finally, he had a name for the face that had tormented him for so long. They kept Paris fed, kept him shifted, and constantly monitored different effects of different conditions. It was hell. One day, he’d finally had enough. Whether it be from the constant stimulus or the overall building anger of what had become of his life, Paris escaped. Through blood and sinew, he tore his way out of the lab and made his way to the one place that he’d heard scientists talk about; Wicked’s Rest. He’d be safe there, he’d find peace there. There were people like him there. 

But there was one face that he always remembered, one face that would haunt him until the end of time; Ryan. He knew that as long as he was alive and free, Ryan would follow Paris to the ends of the earth. But first, Paris had a part he needed to play. Taking up his photography skills once again, he started up a blog to photograph different people around town and get their stories, something that gave him joy in having a connection to his mother in some small way. Still wary of humans and the ways of their odd culture, this was how Paris would learn how to blend in better and discover how to blend in with the people that he distrusted the most; humans.

Character Facts:

Personality: Determined, distrusting, curious, confident, dishonest, rigid, manipulative, charismatic

Paris’s lamia form is that of an Asian water monitor, but three times as large. 

Paris’s mother named him and his four siblings after different places she wanted to visit, as she was a very curious soul in search of learning as much about humans as possible, something that once upon a time, Paris shared a fascination with. 

Paris has a strange scar on his neck that he’s had since arriving in the lab. He doesn’t know what caused it or why he has it, other than he woke up with it. 

[yaxinqs]

Random but HOWWW did you learn THAT many languages I am so impressed???? Idk if this is personal question it’s okay if you don’t want to reply to it

aaaa it's nothing too personal at all don't worry!!

i ended up rambling about it😭 so i'm gonna put a tldr here and you can read on if you want to:

german because i grew up and live in germany, english because of school and being online etc., french because of school, chinese (mandarin, cantonese) because of my mom and her side of the family

★‎ ‎

since i grew up in germany so the language is a given anyway,,,

english as well since we learn it at school starting 3rd grade but honestly i learned everything through english media in my free time lmaooo

french is from school as well! had it from 7th to... 11th? grade which is when i dropped the classes (before 11th grade it's mandatory to choose a 2nd foreign language; most schools including mine offer either latin or french) it's been a few years but i think i'm still at the same level

chinese is also more or less of a given since i'm half chinese, but it's a bit weird with me — my mom is from guangdong (canton-province) and cantonese was actually my first language! but as soon as i started kindergarten i forgot A LOT of it since i had to talk german 24/7 and to this day i'm still mad my mom didn't sit my ass down to learn it again,,, but it's okay i re-learned it bit by bit

and mandarin chinese... man... the thing is when i speak i'd rather do it in cantonese but i somehow can't really wrap my head around written cantonese (there's some extra characters and grammar can be different etc etc) so technically i'm writing in mandarin chinese?? but my spoken mandarin is decent as well, i just tend to mix stuff up between cantonese and mandarin since i don't engage with either language on a regular basis

i'm aware cantonese isn't really considered a seperate language but it's easier to refer to it as one in this case😭

also a fun story: when i visited a friend of my mom i literally had to talk in all languages and it was hell on earth i swear,,,

the line up was basically this:

mom: cantonese, mandarin, german

the friend who tagged along: cantonese, mandarin, english, SOME german

the friend we visited: cantonese, mandarin, english

the friend's partner: mandarin, french, english

the friend's son my beloved 哥哥: cantonese, mandarin, english

my brain was working overtime fr, although it was nice to be able to switch language mid sentence without having to worry about people not understanding

ANYWAY i kinda have a knack for picking up languages but simultaneously struggle with all of them in some way (at least a bit)

[fyodior]

i would like to speak to ❄️ anon (if they do not mind) and recommend sk8 first. I LOVE WINDBREAKER BUT SK8 IS JUST SO CUTE AND FUN AND IT HAS GREAT CHARACTERS AND A GOOD STORY. if ur like me and prefer story and the people and stuff over action id also recommend sk8 first. i am very biased towards sk8 despite loving both. both are short tho so it wont take long to watch them. i just really like sk8 (im also slightly biased bc canadian character and im from canada so i just find it extra fun to see like. humour about that. im not even that devoted to my country, i just dont often see canadian characters in media that isnt canadian unless theyre for the butt of the joke)

also miss flora, if ur reading this, i know how you said you wonder what state the guild is from but i always wonder what province/territory (and sometimes city) langa is from. like i dont think hed be from ontario, especially not toronto. i dont think hed be from a major city like vancouver. he seems to have enjoyed living in canada too much to have lived in quebec (ik ur americans so for context, quebec is the very french province. they generally hate all of canada and pretty much all of canada hate them too. except 18yr olds bc the legal drinking age there is a year younger so they have to put up w 18yr olds visiting just to get drunk.) i honestly think hed be from farther north, lots more places for him to ski. i think its be really funny if he was from one of the territories or like. alberta.

- 💄

yes thats a very good comparison of the two!!! they are both only 12 eps (if i remember wbk correctly) so not long watches at all but it just depends on if you’re preferring story or action.

and honestly i completely forgot langa was canadian LMFAO thats such a good character trait for him 😭 also i love when animes hand us a very obviously japanese native level fluent VA and are like. they’re from canada. suspension of disbelief is key

interesting take tho!! you’re right i know nothing about canada but i like your thought process!! itd be kinda sexy tho if he was from qbc and could speak french too……..

[wttt-dirus-work]

Alberta (Headcanon)

Alberta, or as more know her, ‘Canadian Texas’.

Half the population of Québec, (4,601,314 in 2022 for 8,751,352 the same year for QC), she is the main producer of oil and natural gas of the country.

She became an official province September 1st, 1905, where before she was a part of the Northwest territory, the same time as Saskatchewan. She’s mostly known for her oil and cattle, so she got a good cowboy culture. As stated in my Ontario post, the west is mostly known for having more conservatory opinions, but nothing as radical as Texas/the south (Some people have those opinions, but they’re not the majority, just the loud ones). She understand French, but absolutely refuse to speak it, mainly because of her rivalry with Québec despite her French speaking population. Her government in charge is mostly the reason of it, alimenting the population with lies about the money spend/ etc. Note: Alberta isn’t my Province, and I do not know many things about how it is managed, this is what I gathered.

As for body temperature, Alberta is dry hot in summer (20°C/68°F to 25°C/77°F but can reach the mid to upper 30s°C/90s°F) and can be really cold in winter (-5°C/23°F to -15°C/5°F and can be lower for short period of time: -30°C/-22°F to -40°C/-40°F). She mainly lives in Calgary, where there’s more population and lives mainly on her ranch.

She got olive skin, black hair loosely braided and dark blues eyes, like her flag. She got cowboy boots, dark jeans, an Edmonton oilers shirt (she sometimes switch it for a Calgary flame), a green flannel and a cowboy hat. She’s a little taller (6’2) than Saskatchewan (6’1), who’s is in perfect middle in the country by size, but she doesn’t really care about her heigh (unlike Texas, who’ll, of course, brag that he’s bigger than her, and she’ll just shrug it with a passive-aggressive answer, probably something about how at least she doesn’t let her kids be killed for guns/liberty). She’s bigger than California, just so you guys know.

Also, we have way less school shooting in the whole country (these shouldn’t be happening, period!), and guns ownership is for hunting. In Alberta and the rest of the country, unlike in Texas, you need a license to own a gun, another one to specifically carry one, and you cannot conceal any gun on you, as it is against federal laws.

Here she is, probably listening to Saskatchewan sharing the latest results of curling and feeling a little disinterested. (The site didn’t have Cowboy hat, so here’s the alternative.)

As for the relationship with provinces/state, during WWII, the construction of Alaska Highway (which is crossing BC, Yukon and Alaska and formerly known as Alcan (contraction of Alaska/Canada) Highway) helped her to boost her economy, so she’s grateful for it and do, in return, spend time hunting with Alaska when he wants to.

Her relationship with Québec is kind of like… not Texas and California, that’s too radical, but more like Ohio and Michigan, I think; from what I understand, the Albertan government is the reason why we “Frenchie” are blamed for everything: we’re far away, they rarely visit, we’re trying to protect our culture (which, I understand, can be viewed as trying to separate ourselves from Canada/doesn’t like the Canadian culture, but it’s not true; we just want to be able to lives our life speaking French and keeping our culture), and other factors. But from a few people talking about their experiences in both provinces, Québec and Alberta are two side of the same coin. Which is probably true: Alberta wants people to speak English, Québec wants them to speak French; AB want to export her oil, but QC doesn’t want to risk her fauna/flora; AB sometimes feels like they do not get enough money from the feds compared to QC, the latter is the double of her population.

You see the two sides? So, for their relationship, when Alberta tries to wind Québec up, Québec doesn’t care at all; she’s older, and has been trying to protect her French culture years before Alberta was made, so unless Alberta is actively aggressive, she doesn’t really retort/play her game. They’re more passive-aggressive than actively violent towards each other.

As for BC and Alberta, British Columbia is the chill state, a mix between Washington and California; so, she’s not friendly with Alberta, and they don’t get along most of the time, but if you insult the west? They will be the more bests of bests friends you’ll ever see.

And for Yukon, they do get along, since the territory is often overlooked, like the other two.

Alberta consider Saskatchewan her sister, since they got the same “Birthday” (They`re the West Twins!), and are similar in some things (prairies provinces, too small in population to change things by themselves, kind of angry towards the feds, etc). They’re ‘partner in crimes’ but Saskatchewan is more easy going than Alberta. Saskatchewan will call her out if she’s letting the biased view of the right extremist affect her view of things.

Cana and she do not get along, but they stays respectful and professionals.

That’s all for now, don’t hesitate to ask questions!

Masterpost here.

[josefavomjaaga]

The “Circulaire Ricard”

This is a horribly long text that will most likely only be interesting to me, but just in case: This is the main evidence against Soult in the “Roi Nicolas” affair of spring 1809, during his stay in Porto, when he was accused of wanting to make himself king of the country. It’s a circular, sent to all generals under Soult’s command in Portugal, put together by Soult’s chief-of-staff general Ricard - who in the end became the main victim in this affair, as he was recalled from his post and fell in disgrace for two years. It’s quoted in Nicole Gottéri, “Le maréchal Soult et la royauté de Portugal”.

Mon General,

His Excellency, the Marshal Duke of Dalmatia, has asked me to let you know about the dispositions of the great majority of the inhabitants of the province of Minho.

The city of Braga, one of the first to take part in the insurrection, was also the first to speak out in favour of a change of system that would assure the future peace and tranquility of their families and the independence of Portugal. The corregidor whom H.E. had appointed had withdrawn to Oporto when the French troops left, fearing that the numerous emissaries Silveira was sending would stir up further disturbances and threaten his life. The inhabitants then expressed the wish that this worthy magistrate be sent back to them and a deputation of twelve members was sent for this purpose by H. E. Meanwhile, Silveira's emissaries were arrested and imprisoned.

So, to sum up: The French had entered Braga, Soult had appointed somebody and told him »You’re in charge here now«, and this guy then, when the French army moved on to Oporto, ran after them crying “As soon as the first insurgent shows up, people will kill me”? - Great pick, Soult.

Except that the people of Braga apparently had not risen up against the French, and had rather taken captive the insurgents.

In Oporto and Barcelos, the inhabitants have also expressed the same sentiments and all feel the need to have a rallying point for well-meaning citizens, for the defence and salvation of the fatherland and for the preservation of property.

Well, if all the local administrators ran after the French in search of protection before even the first enemy showed up, I can see the need for some central government institution.

On this subject, new deputations have been presented to H.E. to beg her to approve that the people of the province of Minho should express the genuine wish to depose the house of Braganza [whose members had fled to Brazil] from the throne and that at the same time H.M. the emperor and king should be begged to appoint a prince of his own house or choice to reign in Portugal; but that while waiting for the emperor to make known his intentions on this subject, H. E. the duke of Dalmatia would be asked to take the reins of government, to represent the sovereign, and to assume all the functions of supreme authority, the people promising and swearing to be faithful to him, to support him and to defend him at the expense of their lives and fortunes against all opponents and even against insurgents from the other provinces, until the complete submission of the kingdom.

This is, I guess, the most damning part. “Assume all the functions of supreme authority” would later be the expression that Napoleon repeated during his interview with Brun de Villeret in Schönbrunn. How dare Soult? - Yet, and this seems to be true: This was not without precedent. To the contrary. The same thing had happened when Junot had entered Lisbon the year before. As Soult mentioned in a conversation with Saint-Chamans (who, being Saint-Chamans, swallowed the whole Roi-Nicolas accusation hook, line and sinker), it was even the same wording as the declarations that had been made to Junot. When Murat was in Madrid, Napoleon himself had urged him to get a very similar declaration from the locals - that those gave only very reluctantly and with plenty of caveats. Of course, those had been authorized by Napoleon. But, as Soult also mentioned in that conversation with his ADC, there was no way to get in contact with him. Or anyone. Soult’s 20,000 men in Portugal were completely isolated and had not yet managed to get in touch with any of the corps supposedly supporting them.

The marshal accepted these proposals and authorised the corregidors of the counties to have the chambers assembled, to call deputies from all the orders of the corporations and of the people in the countryside to draw up the act which must be done and to affix to it the signatures of all the citizens. He ordered me to inform you of these provisions so that, in the district where you are in command, you promote their execution and that you then propagate the effect of them on all the points of the kingdom where you will be able to send the news.

The Marshal has not dissimulated to himself that an event of such great importance will astonish many people and must produce various impressions, his soul is too pure for him to think that any ambitious project is attributed to him.

Yeah, let’s see how far this will get you, honeybunch.

In all that he does, he sees only the glory of His Majesty's arms, the success of the expedition entrusted to him and the well-being of an interesting nation which, in spite of its errors, is still worthy of our esteem. He feels confident of the army's affection [...]

Let’s see about that, too...

[...] and he burns with the desire to present it to the Emperor glorious and triumphant, having fulfilled the commitment which His Majesty herself made to plant the imperial eagle on the forts of Lisbon after an expedition as difficult as it was perilous, in which, every day, we were in the necessity of winning.

At which point every general of Soult’s corps and every other reader including me thinks: He doth protest much ...

Nor has His Excellency concealed from himself the fact that, since Burgos, the army has had to sustain continuous combats. He has considered how to avoid in the future the evils caused by this state of war and he has found none more suitable than that offered by the great majority of the inhabitants of the principal towns of Minho, especially as he hopes that this example will be propagated to the other provinces and that this beautiful country will thus be preserved from new calamities. His Majesty's intentions will be sooner and more gloriously fulfilled and our presence in Portugal, which at first had been a cause of fear for the inhabitants, will be seen there with pleasure while at the same time it will contribute to neutralizing the efforts of the enemies of the Emperor in this part of the continent.

Soult: Look, if the locals say they want us here, we don’t need to fight.

Army: ... Our marshal has a strange concept of war ...

The task which the Marshal has imposed on himself in this circumstance is immense, but he has the courage to embrace it and he believes that he will be able to carry it out successfully, if you are willing to help him in its execution. He wishes you to propagate the ideas which I have just communicated to you, and to ensure that any authorities or citizens who embrace the new system are protected in a particular way, by putting them in a position to pronounce themselves and to act accordingly in the future. You will watch more carefully than ever over the conduct of your troops, prevent them from committing any damage or insult which could irritate the inhabitants, [...]

Army: Wait! Is he saying we are not allowed to loot?

[...] and you will be good enough, General, to frequently inform His Excellency of the spirit of the inhabitants and of the results which you have obtained...

Army: We must write to the emperor! Let’s mutiny! Let’s conspire with the English! This is outrageous!

[spine-buster]

American here, is French a requirement for schools ? If so when is it introduced ?

Here, at least in my state, students can elect a language to learn in 7th grade and then in highschool we were required to have 4 years of a language (for those who wish to go to a 4 year university, not community college). Most students continued the language elective they chose in 7th grade in highschool so it was rather easy for lots to get a bi-literacy seal on their diploma at graduation if they took an AP tear . For us the major language was Spanish with German coming in a close second

I can only speak for Ontario (as provinces have jurisdiction over education), but I believe that in public schools, French begins at grade 4, whereas in public Catholic schools, French starts in grade 1. Regardless, you must take it up until grade 9, and then in grades 10-12 it becomes an elective. If you take French all four years of high school you can graduate with a French certificate. Other languages are offered as electives throughout high school, depending on availability. For example, my school offers Italian, Spanish, and Latin. My high school also offered German.

When I was a kid in elementary school we also had a local languages program and learned Italian along with French (the area I lived in in Toronto was very Italian, so it made sense for the area). I don't know if that's still a thing.

[thessalian]

Thess vs the Learning Curve

There was this whole post I just finished reading, which I didn’t want to hijack, about how old people should be when they learn to read, and in what setting. And ... I mean, there seems to be some serious research that indicates either way, but my experience is a little ... different.

So let’s start with ... I learned to read when I was about three, three and a half, as far as anyone can accurately figure. The reason this is such a vague age range is because no one knows exactly how the fuck I learned how to read. The best guess is that I followed along with my mother when she read aloud to me (because it didn’t matter how busy she was, or how tired, she would read to me every night) and picked things up from there and storytime at day care. They figured out that I could read at my day care; apparently I’d been eschewing the usual toys for the bookshelf, and the lady who ran the day care centre was curious about whether I’d memorised the books or could actually read them, and her little test resulted in the following conversation when Mum came to pick me up from day care:

Counsellor: Ms [Thess-Mom], were you aware that your daughter could read?

Mum: I ... suspected, but I wasn’t entirely sure if it was memorising or--

Counsellor: Well, it isn’t. She just read me the newspaper.

No, I probably didn’t know what a lot of the words I was reading meant. But apparently I was pronouncing them pretty damn well.

Now, I don’t know whether this is how you should learn to read, and I sure as hell don’t know how primary school goes about teaching you how to read, because I never learned in school.

...Well. Not in English, anyway.

See, at around the age most people are in kindergarten and first grade, learning how to read and write in their native language, I was learning in French and only in French. I lived in Montreal. The school had a French immersion programme. The first three years of grade school were 100% done in French, no exceptions, whereas the second three years gave us a head start on swapping classes throughout the day by having some of the subjects (mostly history and French grammar / literature etc) in French and some (science, maths, English literature but never English grammar, oddly) in English.

I didn’t learn English grammar in a classroom setting until I moved to the US and hit eighth grade, and the heavier stuff in ninth grade was a nightmare for me because I’d learned French grammar first. Thing is, I could still construct a perfectly grammatical sentence long, long before that - I just didn’t know what an adverb was in English.

(My asshole of an English teacher that year took out his dislike of me, specifically of me flagging up that Shakespeare was writing plays for people to watch and enjoy and laugh rather than knowingly Creating Art That Would Resound Through The Ages, by refusing to help me even when I asked, but that’s another story.)

So, yeah, I dunno. I was reading pretty well when I was very young, pretty much miles ahead of my classmates. But I was never formally taught to read in English at all. So that whole post made me feel a little like an outlier and a whole lot more like a freak. That’s my own damage, I know - I probably shouldn’t care about that so much, so many years later. But I do. Being the outlier gets old pretty damn quickly. Still, it’s not my fault that apparently my brain works the way it does, and it sure as hell isn’t my fault that my education was in a bilingual city in a bilingual province that was trying to be as Francophone as possible by the time I left, and then moved to the kind of place where they’d yell at you to “speak American”.

Sometimes I just get fed up with Being Weird.

[skiddo-xy]

🇨🇦 Langblr Challenge Day 13: How Many Languages Are Spoken In Your Country? 🇨🇦

In this post: official languages, Indigenous languages, more recent immigrant languages. Touches on language and dialect diversity as well as preservation/revitalization. Statistic bomb so you don't get bored: there are over 200 languages spoken in Canada.

Been waiting a while for a day when I have lots of time so I can medium dive into my country of Canada 🇨🇦

Part I: Official Languages

So officially, we have two official languages: English and French, both directly tied to our country's colonial history. Here is a map of Canada, where 1 represents the area/s where English is predominant, 2 represents the area/s where English and French are roughly equally predominant (bilingual belt) while 3 represents the area where French is predominant. And everywhere else is where the population density is less than 0.4/km, yes we are that sparse

We also have multple varieties of French in Canada, the most known Quebecois French, Acadian French, Chiac etc.

In my experience, French Immersion programs, public school programs in which Anglophone children only are spoken to in French and they learn it naturally--not to say these kids speak it natively, they still learn advanced grammar etc all throughout school--are common in major urban centres from in or close to the bilingual belt in Canada. I myself am in one of these programs (you can drop it after first year of high school, but if you do it all throughout highschool you can get an additional French-language diploma) and though I recognize its problems (especially as someone who has lived in Francophone places as well) I am very grateful for the opportunities it has provided me with.

Bilingualism, especially in Quebec, is a debated political subject in Canada. Here are some recent news articles:

Quebec language watchdog orders café to make Instagram posts in French

23 bilingual Quebec municipalities challenge province's new language law in court

Quebec's tuition hike triggers financial strain for English universities as enrolment drops

Part II: Indigenous Languages

Canada is home to over 70 Indigenous languages from about 12 Indigenous language families: Algonquian, Inuit, Athabaskan, Siouan, Salish, Tsimshian, Wakashan, Iroquoian, Michif, Tlingit, Kutenai & Haida.

Unfortunately, due to Canada's long history of colinization, all of these languages are now endangered. This is mostly attributed to Canada's past residential school system, in which Indigenous children were taken from their homes to attend English or French-language boarding schools and critical to the language situation, abused for speaking their ancestral tongue. More on residential schools.

Not all is lost though! In 2019, the Indigenous Languages Act was enacted which pledged government funding towards the reviatalization and sustainment of Indigenous languages as part of the 94 Calls to Action established by Canada's Truth and Reconciliation commission written to establish reconciliation for Indigenous Canadians and Canada.

Currently, 9 Indigenous languages are recognized as official in the Northwest Territories federal subdivision (Inuktitut, Inuinnaqtun, Inuvialuktun, Gwich'in, North Slavey, South Slavey, Tłı̨chǫ, Chipewyan, Cree) alongside English and French, while in the territory of Nunavut, Inuktut (both Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun dialects) are recognized as official alongside English and French.

Recent news: Inuktut became first Indigenous language of Canada to be available on Google Translate as of 2 weeks ago! Try it out using Latin Inuktut or Canadian Aboriginal Syllabics Inuktut! Please note that Canadian Aboriginal Syllabics are not actually Indigneous to Canada, they were developed by missionaries to facilitate the spread of Christianity among Indigenous Canadians. Indigneous languages of Canada were traditionally unwritten.

Also: searchable glossary of Indigenous place names in Canada, interactive map

Part III: (More Recent) Immigrant Languages

This section basically encompasses everything else in Canada. Some highlights:

Mandarin is spoken by 679,255 people as of the 2021 census (1.9% of the population

Canadian Ukrainian, a dialect from 1920's western Ukraine with adapted English words for new things such as кеш реґистер/kesh regyster (cash register) (fun fact: Canada is home to the 2nd largest Ukrainian diaspora in the world!)

Canadian Gaelic, pretty similar to Canadian Ukrainian's history but with Scottish Gaelic, most prevalent in rural communities of Canada's Nova Scotia (lit. "New Scotland") province

Plautdietsch, the Mennonite dialect/s of the Low German dialect of German, with Frisian and Flemish aspects, most Canadian speakers are Mennonites who immigrated to Canada from Russian Empire-era South Ukraine (P.S this is totally not self promo or anything but I have a bunch of posts about Plautdietsch on my blog as someone whose great-grandparents were native Plautdietsch speakers under the tag #plautdietsch)

And there's so much more to learn, not just for languages exclusive to/most common in Canada! You can look at the link I just linked or go here for raw data from the 2021 census and then "find in page" your way to the "language"s section

End

This is a subject I think is super neat so I'm glad I got an outlet to write about that. There's so much more I could've talked about, so for futher reading you can check out this Wikipedia article. If you made it this far, THANK YOU

[stories-from-peter]

The Hitchhiker

Being a child of the sixties and living on the West Coast as a teenager I was quite used to hitchhiking as a means of cheap and interesting travel. My first experiences came when I was 8 years old and had a long walk to school. Some days the walk from Laval West School back to Frechette Street on The Lake of Two Mountains was just more than I could bear, but I could always get a ride to some place closer to home.

Spring break during my final year of high school was an adventure. Several groups from Killarney Secondary School planned to thumb their way to Los Angeles from Vancouver. The plan was to meet at the West Gate of Pacific Ocean Park on a Tuesday at noon. My best friend Jerry Kallberg was excited to have his first adventure away from home and we were joined by one other guy for the trip. Jerry figured we could get a jump start on the trip by taking the bus to Portland. The overnight bus was cheap and we would be in Oregon early Saturday morning.

We decided to have a look around Portland before heading off to California. Portland seemed to be populated almost entirely by teenage girls. There were girls everywhere and hardly any boys. This was at the height of the Viet Nam war and many boys had either been drafted into the armed forces or were busy avoiding the draft.

We entered a department store and saw a long line of girls waiting to see some event. It looked interesting so we joined the line. A few minutes later we were approached by a well-dressed lady who inquired who we were. I was carrying a movie camera and Jerry had borrowed his old family camera. The lady asked if we were from a newspaper. Jerry, being very bright and quick-thinking, said “Yes!” and invented a newspaper for teens in Vancouver. The lady informed us the line was to enter a fashion show for the Bobby Brooks Fashion Club and escorted us directly to the main event. We were offered free food and drinks and given a prime location for viewing and photography. Jerry and I managed to get some pictures and movie footage of the models. Jerry also pretended to be taking notes to add to our deception.

We never made it to Los Angeles but we did hitchhike back to Vancouver.

After graduating I found myself with no home, no job, and no money. My mother had been transferred to Ottawa around the same time my sister Audrey and her family had moved to Vancouver. Audrey was still looking for a place to live so I had no choice but to move to Ottawa. I hated Ottawa. When I found out Audrey and her family were living close enough to my old high school that I could walk there I begged my mother to let me go back to Vancouver. That gave me the chance to spend my final year of high school with friends.

My predicament after graduation left me with no option but to head back to Quebec where I could easily find work. Being bilingual is a big advantage in job hunting even though Quebec is 95% French speaking. Most companies need people fluent in both languages in many positions. If they do business with large companies or businesses in other provinces then English is a requirement. My brother found me a job with the printing company where he worked and I was soon promoted to a position where both languages were needed. I was never happy in Montreal and I longed to get back to my favorite city with the mild climate, beautiful girls, and where I was not concerned about the 95% of the population that hated me. I worked as much overtime as I could and saved my money to get me back to the west coast.

To save my limited funds I decided to hitchhike back to Vancouver and hopefully find work before my money evaporated. I had $207 saved from 10 months work. I managed to get a ride all the way to Toronto my first day. The driver dropped me in the middle of the city after dark. I found a phone booth and searched for the YMCA where I could get a cheap room. There was a bus that took me right to the ‘Y’ but when I inquired about a room I was told that was the only YMCA in Canada that didn’t have rooms for rent.

I explained my situation to the desk clerk and he told me “Give me a minute, I might be able to help you.” He picked up the phone and spoke to someone for a minute. He told me to wait for a while. Some time later 4 guys came up the stairs and greeted me very warmly and asked where I was headed. They were in a band that practiced in the basement and they were happy to help out a stranded stranger. I could not believe my good fortune. We all jumped in a car and headed to one guy’s house for dinner. They took me on a tour of Toronto that included Casa Loma. The guys decided that Casa Loma was not exciting enough so they lit up a joint to make things more fun.

The next morning they all took me on a ride north out of the city so I could hitch a ride to my next destination. I could not believe my good luck in getting to Toronto in one day and meeting those great guys too. I managed to make it 75km to Orillia by the end of the day but I would need longer rides to cross the rest of the country. Day 3 took me to Sudbury, day 4 I made it to Sault St. Marie, and on day 5 I was in White River. After 5 days I was not even half way across Canada. I noticed a railway station in White River and inquired about the train schedule. The train was due to stop there around 10 pm that evening. I calculated the $50 train fare to Vancouver would save me money by getting me there much faster.

I arrived in Vancouver on a Saturday morning, found a room at the YMCA, and started looking for a job. I managed to find a temporary job for 3 weeks at a printing company in Richmond. I also managed to reconnect with some of my good friends from school. Rick Slamon found me a spot in his parent’s house where I lived for about a year until I got my own apartment.

It wasn’t easy but I have no regrets about moving back to Vancouver.

[inwintersolitude]

- December 11th 2023 -

What's the closest supermarket to your house? Giant Eagle.

How many states/territories/provinces/etc have you visited within your own country? 33 states, if I remember correctly.

Do you like your name? Yeah.

What languages did you learn in school? I took two years of French classes in middle school, and two years of Latin classes in high school.

Can you imitate any accents well? No, not really.

Would you ever get a face tattoo? No way.

Have you ever ridden in a police car for any reason? No.

Do you like Christmas movies? What's your favourite one? I like certain ones. My favorites are Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (the classic 1964 one), and Home Alone.

Are you home alone right now? LOL speaking of Home Alone. Yep. My husband left for his flights earlier today.

Is it cold where you live today? Yeah, it's a bit below freezing.

What was the last alcoholic drink you had? Oh it was sooo weird. My husband and I were babysitting our nephews this past weekend while my brother and sister-in-law went to a Christmas masquerade ball, and when they got home we were hanging out and we had some beers. One of the beers was a peanut butter milk stout. It wasn't bad, it was just strange.

What's your alcoholic drink of choice? Gin and tonic.

How often do you wear a face mask? I wear an N95 mask on flights and whenever I'm in a crowded indoor place.

Do you hang up on telemarketers? I never even answer. My phone has really good call screening and I almost always know before answering if it's a telemarketer.

What is something you've been looking forward to? My Granny coming to visit in a few weeks.

Have you ever done an internship? What did it involve? Not a full legit internship, just a short mini one. I shadowed an engineer at NASA's Glenn Research Center.

Do you live in a part of the world that has very little sunlight hours? In the wintertime, yes. Not only do we only get 9-ish hours between sunrise and sunset, we also have extremely cloudy/gloomy weather at this time of year. I have to keep my indoor lights on all throughout the day.

What do you usually eat for breakfast? Toast with jam/butter, avocado toast, eggs, oatmeal, or cereal.

What sort of milk do you drink? 2 percent, or sometimes whole milk.

Can you smell anything right now? Not really.

Do you have a TV in your bedroom? No.

When was the last time you slept with a sleeping bag? I don't think I've slept in one since I last went camping, which was in 2008.

Do you know any of your second cousins? Yep.

Are you good at remembering names? Yes, I remember names incredibly well. I don't remember faces, though.

Have you ever done something really embarrassing on a date? I've done plenty of goofy/silly things while on dates with my husband, but I don't recall ever being embarrassed in front of him.

What's a weird or irrational fear you had as a kid? Air vents freaked me out, like the big ones in public bathrooms or hotel bathrooms. I actually still get a little bit of an uneasy feeling from them if they're really big or if they have a fan inside them and make noise.

Do you have sensitive teeth? Not really.

What's your favourite flower? Hydrangeas or stephanotis.

What colours are you wearing today? Black, navy blue, and white.

Superman or Spiderman? Eh, no preference. I'm not really into superhero stuff.

[dybdahlsvisitportugalspainfrance]

Brittany/Bretagne/Breizh, France

Oct. 4, 2023

We are home and I have been too busy "being home" to finish my journal - but today I will get back at it. Our suitcases are unpacked and put away and our clothes are laundered and back where they live. We have had one sleepover, spent the day at a petting zoo, watched one soccer game and have seen 3/7 of our grandkids and 1/3 of our kids. We have had 3 Dr. appts too. No dawdling around here!

We have doled out our grandkid gifts to only one kid - but the rest of the gift giving will happen soon.

Oh - and I am still on Europe time... I am also still glowing from all the wonderful times we had during our month away and now I will re-live the last week. So, here goes...

On September 24th said farewell most of our buddies and flew from Madrid Spain to Paris, France with Annie & Carl. We rented a car and drove 5 hours northwest to Brittany. Of course at this time, I didn't realize that this region had 3 names and that "Brittany" is the English word for this region.

Before I get too far - let's look at France. It is the biggest country in Europe and is about 2.2 times the size of Michigan. But the population of France is 63.3 million people while little Michigan is struggling to reach 10 million making the population of France six times that of Michigan. Interesting.

We were the guests of long-time friends of Annie & Carl's, Francoise, her brother Gabby and his wife Danielle and they were hosting us in their Loguivy de la Mer summer house that was the original home of Francoise and Gabby's great-grandparents. Charming!!!

And here is the "de la mer" view from their front yard...

Let me just say that we were treated like royalty!! The connection here is that Francoise's daughter, Helen (prounounced "a - LYNN) was Annie & Carl exchange student in 2002.

While our pace was certainly less intense than our on OAT trip we did a lot of stuff and learned so much. Have I mentioned that the best education is travel?

So let's begin with the name of the province we call Brittany: Bretagne/Breizh. Like Basque Country, Breizh is a diverse region in northwestern France and a historic country with a distinct identity, sharing much of its Celtic heritage with Cornwall and Wales. It has its own language, (Breton) its own food specialities (crepes and sea food of all kinds), and its own flag and culture.

The flag is relatively new - from the 1970's and was first considered a "separatist" flag but it is now accepted as the province flag and is considered apolitical. Breizh has been part of France for a long, long time and while they had good times during the 700 years they were a country before 1498 - they are not getting out of France and are no longer making an effort to do so. They are - however - working hard to save their language.

All the signage is in two languages: French on top and Breton on the bottom.

I read an article that said the average age of a person who speaks Breton is 74 and that in 1950 there were one million Breton speakers, in 2000 there were 200,000 Breton speakers today is number is 80,000. Breton is regional and is spoken primarily in the western part of the province - caller Lower Brittany (in the colors on the map below). The division between Upper and Lower Brittany is language. Upper Brittany (called "upper" based on altitude of the land) speaks French, French and only French.

Francoise and Gabby, grandparents were both teachers in the 1920s when Breton was outlawed. Breton was their native language and the language of their students but to keep their jobs - they had to teach ONLY in French. If you wanted to be employed anywhere - you had to speak French. Francoise and Gabby do not speak Breton and Francoise told me she couldn't even understand it. It is not even close to French, just as Basque is not even close to Spanish.

Hey - Is there some kind of a rule book that conquerors use to get the conquered to assimilate? It is the same ol' method since time began, it appears. When we visited Tibet in 2014, all of the buildings, shops and signage was written in Tibetan on the top and Chinese on the top - in much bigger font and lit. The Tibetan people were told to learn Chinese if they wanted to work and all the schools were teaching in Chinese and that was relatively new. But I digress....

There are schools where Breton is taught as a foreign language and there are a few schools in Lower Brittany where Breton is the language of instruction. The language is listed as "Endangered" by UNESCO.

Staying in the topic of "language", I had a BLAST digging deep to try to speak French. I studied French in high school from 1966-1970 (with the dinosaurs) and took one French Literature class (in French) in college. I have brushed up repeatedly with Duo Lingo or some other app - BUT the one thing I have never done was engage in meaningful conversation with a French speaker. Our hosts' English was better than my French and I think they all had excellent receptive English - but to communicate we spoke "Franglish". I was pulling all kinds of French words right out of my butt - so to speak. I still can read French fairly well and I can buy train tickets or ask for simple directions or order food - but to converse... nope! I loved it. They were so kind and patient and if felt safe to try and make mistakes. We were able to share all kinds of information. I asked "Comment dit-on..." (How do you say...) repeatedly during a sentence and most of the time saying the word in English or pointing at the item worked. But sometimes a more info or even a little charades was necessary - for example I wanted the word for "nephew" and I had to add "the boy baby of my brother) to my sentence. It is "neveu" in case you are wondering. It was delightful and makes me want to get back to studying. My new French friends, Francoise, Gabby and Danielle are coming to the US in February and will stay with Annie and Carl in Palm Desert (while we are there) so I have a good reason to get back at it. YAY!!

We arrived around 8:00 PM on Sunday, September 24 to a lovely meal. We visited a little bit after dinner - but turned in, exhausted after a full day of travel.

Next morning we awoke to a lovely breakfast, lots of conversation and then a walk through their community.

We walked down a couple of streets filled with quaint rock homes and into a park called La Roche aux Oiseaux (Bird's Rock) and onto a trail. BEAUTIFUL!

The first photo below is the river Roc'h ar Hon that flows into the bay - the next photo. This is the same bay we can see from the front porch.

We continued our walk to the Loguivy de la Mer harbor and village. Delightful! There are indications everywhere that this village has been here a long, long time.

The tides here are high - between 5 and 6 metres (15-18 feet). At low tide all the water is gone from the harbor and all the boats are sitting in the mud.

Across from the harbor is the church where Francoise and Gabby's grandparents were married. The gate was locked so this was the pic I took. Notice the palm tree. From the harbor we looking at the English Channel and yet - palm trees grow with ease here. It has snowed - once or twice - but this is a region that doesn't get below freezing much.

This pic I snagged off the Internet.

Of course this palm tree caused me to go down a rabbit hole - but now you won't have to. Check out the map below. Where you see shades of yellow, or orange or red are indeed where you might find a palm tree. Norway? Iceland? WHAT!?! Also it turns out there are low temperature tolerant palm trees too. Who knew?!?!

I'm going to stop here - just because I have other things to do at home. I'll pick up the rest of the day with our French friends soon.

Stay tuned.

[wttt-dirus-work]

Québec (Headcanon)

Québec, my province. Less population (8,576,595 in 2020) than New York City (8,804,190 in 2020), biggest province of the country by land.

She appeared when the French came in the Americas for the beaver fur under the name of “Nouvelle France” (New France). She knows the first thirteen colonies of the US, since after the fight between the French and Britain (Seventh Years’ War), she switched to the name The Province of Québec and became a British colony. I headcanon that she knows well New York and New Hampshire from her time with them as colony and as of today is kind of friendly with Maine (who speaks and understand French if they’re talking -> Acadian French is different than Cajun French, but still comprehensible if I try to understand despite the accent – kinda like when you try to understand an Irish accent-) and Vermont (maple syrup). She’s perfectly bilingual but hold a grudge towards English speaking people who refuse to learn French, or who understand French and refuse to speak it (cough, Ontario, cough, Alberta, Cough). She will talk with the provinces and territories solely in French, mostly because they never try to speak French when they visit her land, so why should she try when they are able to understand her? She mainly does it to make them understand how she feels when they keep being assholes to her.

She’s always cold (because of the three climates, subarctic being the biggest sized one, she’s feels as cold as Alaska, not warmer than 3 °C/-16°F in summer and at least -8°C/-22°F in winter and can go lower than -35°C/37°F, while staying around -3°C/-19°F during spring/fall) despite the population living mainly in the south of the province because of the “No Mans land” and continental climate similar to the northeast’s. She is salty to her government for the lumbering, and how they do nothing to protect the forest.

She doesn’t like people, kind of remember me of New York, but she will just not talk instead of getting into fights, except if it’s with Ontario or Alberta, or anyone about hockey. She’s mean but can be nice if you’re on her good side. She’s got a love/hate relationship with Ontario and doesn’t care about the other provinces/is chill with New Brunswick (who is bilingual too and speaks French despite his Acadian accent). She doesn’t really care about Saskatchewan, Manitoba and British Columbia and is in a truce-like friendship with Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island (PEI) and Nova Scotia (Newfoundland and Nova Scotia are the oldest in Canada). The “rivalry” concerning Alberta is mainly like Texas and Alaska’s relationship. She doesn’t really care about the west provinces and their problems towards her, which is mainly due to malformation concerning the money divided between the provinces (Alberta feels like she should get more for what she produces in oil, but Québec is the double of her population, so the latter consider it normal that she gets more money). Really, she just want to protect her culture and language.

Against all odds, she has friends: Nunavut -who she can relate for how their government treated their Natives and could understand why Nunavut wanted his own government who was closer to their people- and some of the Northeast states. Since New York buys her electricity from Hydro-Québec (more than a 100-year-old contract!), I headcanon that she and New York would at least talk to each other, and since they know each other from centuries before, I believe they would be good friends. They’re not always fighting like the rest of the Northeast, and I think New York would like Poutine (it’s literally French fries, cheeses curds and brown sauce) and Beavertail (the dude has a thing called Garbage plate, the bar is so low it’s in the ground). As for Vermont, who’s also buying power from her, they bonded over Maple Syrup (Québec is the main producer of the world) and how the real stuff is way better than the cheap from the market (we literally call it sirop de poteau, post syrup). Concerning Maine, he was literally called Little Canada by the Québécois immigrants who fled the depression. Due to the numerous towns/city close to St. Lawrence River, and La Gaspésie, there is some popular seafood closer to Québec city, so they definitely bonded over that.

As of sports team, she loves hockey (they all do) and the Habs is her team (New Brunswick support them because he feels kind of sad for her being alone with most of the maritime provinces rooting for the Maple Leafs/local teams). She doesn’t really care about the other sports but will fight anyone saying the Senators/Maple Leafs/Flyers/Bruins are better. She had horses for some time, but then moved north after Canada becoming a country to help her Native nations despite the way her government tried to annihilate them. She only come down south during the elections times/meeting with the government and when she spends time with the Maritime’s or New York.

Québec is the tallest province (6’7), and only Nunavut beat her in size (7’). Alaska is bigger than her (6’10), but smaller than Nunavut. She got white skin pink in the face/extremities from the cold, some muscle from cutting wood, dark brown hair usually tied in Dutch braids and sky-blue eyes, like her flag. She wears fluffy earmuff (help to muffle the sound in the cities) or a white toque (beanie, guys, for us a toque is a beanie), she got a Habs shirt under a blue flannel (which she sometimes switches for a red one), ripped light jeans and pairs of rainbow runners/converse (wink Montreal wink). She will wear boots in winter, don’t worry (it must be under -30°C/-34°F, like for me lol). She will complain about the snow/cold in jokes, just because she can, but she would never switch it for tornadoes, fire season, earthquakes, hurricanes, alligator, etc.

Here you can see her waving towards someone she knows and is kind of fond of. Is it a Northeast state? Is it New Brunswick or the Maritimes? Who knows. But I can guarantee you, it’s not the west. Honestly, it’s probably New York.

Fun fact about Québec : It's pronounced "kay-beck", not "kwah-beck", honestly, it's a personal pet-peeve. Also, we invented Poutine, and if the other provinces try to pass it as their making, they didn’t, they are big liars who lie. It was made in Drummondville, by Jean-Paul Roy in 1964. It’s not “Poo-t-ine”, it’s “poo-tsin”. If you don’t pronounce it with the “-tsin”, you’re saying it wrong; I don’t make the rules. And if you come here, we won’t hate you because you’re black/Asian/another ethnicity; we will hate you if you don’t speak French. And not France French (you won’t understand anything from us), Québec French. Acadian French is good if your accent isn’t that bad (also Cajun French is something else, like you saw with International Canada (Kallmekris) in that sketch, but I personally can understand it well), it’s like that saying: A French speaking (francophone) person in Montreal who speaks English is a bilingual, and English speaking (anglophone) person there who speaks French is a fucking miracle. Don’t take it personal, as I said before, it’s linked to our history. Oh, and we do swear a lot, but there’s gradation : Tabarnak is worse than Calisse or Esti, like fuck off is worse than damn. And saying fuck here is nothing vs our swears, it doesn’t hold the same importance than an Esti de Calisse de Tabarnak; we also use them as verbs and can accord them as nouns too.

Most of us doesn’t believe in Church while we can be Christian (look up Québec’s Bill 21 for more information towards our relationship with religion) or are polite with it and won’t force it in your face, and if you try to justify hating on other people because of your beliefs, we will judge you and won’t like you. Our way of life is kind of a mix between the Midwest and Northeast, in the “mind you own business” mindset for the latter, and the former, if you guys recall the Minnesota goodbye, yeah, we do that here (took me two hours at the door once, because my friend and I were still talking and unable to say goodbye) with also the being too nice, usually in the country, but not in the city (this is a generalisation, there’s always exceptions). From what I know, it’s mostly this way with the rest of the country, so I don’t think it’s a fun fact about the Province.

The more Cryptids we have (except for some locals stories; I have a few personals, just send a ask if you want to hear about it) is La Chasse-Galerie, some skinwalker, wendigo and Mugwump.

Oh, and most of the things about Alaska with cold/snow does apply to us, in majority. We do play the game of “am I on the road/guess the line” during winter and the spot the deer/moose in the rut season.

About her relationship with Cana, where I mentioned the mistake Cana made in the 80s:

Pierre E. Trudeau, the prime minister of the country at this time, knew René Lévesque, Québec’s Premier. They weren’t friends, especially after the referendum to make Québec a country, and when came the time to sign the Constitution in the 80s, to finalize Canada’s independence from the UK, Lévesque was excluded from the negotiations which took place on the night of November 4 to 5, 1981, called “Nuit des Longs Couteaux” (Night of the Long Knives). The National Assembly of Québec has never formally approved the law.

Concerning Cana and Québec, I think the latter is still angry at the Fed for not even informing her of it until it was signed, and it’s another reason we’re, as Québécois, pissed towards English people.

Masterpost here

[earaercircular]

Used clothing summer

L.K.Markey

Bulky, second-hand and as unpretentious as possible - this style is worn in trendy German districts as an alternative to mainstream fashion. But nowadays you sometimes have to spend a lot of money on it.

For her: the perfectly level pants

What actually determines what is good taste and what is not? Spoiler: Not on Instagram, and certainly not by people doing anything with TV. And actually not at art fairs either, because there are always a lot of excited wannabes buzzing around. But one thing is still striking there: the really rich collectors no longer carry designer handbags, instead the galleries can hardly keep up with the production of give-away cotton bags. One could almost think that it is now officially embarrassing to be seen in anything that comes from the mass production of the two large luxury groups LVMH[1] and Kering[2], no matter how much the industry can ramble on about Quiet Luxury[3].

Quiet Luxury

It is the so-called luxury itself that is incredibly boring, and designer labels are only for people who dream of a better life in the pedestrian zone. The hipsters of this world have known this for a long time and have been going for extreme vintage for years, i.e.: colourfully printed eighties aviator silk anorak with selected unchosen dad sneakers. That's why there has been a lot of confusion lately when you were out and about somewhere in the provinces: was that a hipster or someone who really didn't care about his impact? The British label LF Markey[4] also delivers this musty second-hand shop look: with the perfect trouser cut, for example, which is made very precisely to make it completely irrelevant. Conclusion: distinction remains exhausting, but at least smells new now.

For him: shaggy zeitgeist

The appearance of people in trendy districts has become increasingly difficult to interpret in recent years. In any case, today you can no longer tell whether someone simply lives in very precarious circumstances or whether what they are wearing was imported from Japanese hipster labels at great expense. Recycled, oversized, crossover and retro trends implode together on young bodies, rarely resulting in anything that fits the classic ideal of beauty - but that's mostly the way with youth culture. What is new is that this used-clothing-normcore-chic can now cost a lot of money and still serves as an alternative to boring show-off chic with the usual glitter brands. Young people today who want to signal creativity and good taste beyond the mainstream wear one of the labels whose shops are concentrated in London's Lamb's Conduit Street[5], for example, namely Folk[6] and Oliver Spencer[7], also Margaret Howell[8], Nigel Cabourn[9] or the Munich label A Kind of Guise[10] serves these needs.

Folk

Roughly speaking: artisanal fashion with good fabrics and inner values that is not as boring as the merino sweater from Italy. In the Folk collection of this autumn it looks like the picture - a mix of materials and patterns that you have to look at very carefully: Is the guy just out of the recording studio or from an exchange year in Kabul? Furthermore, the suspicion persists that you could also get all the components of this look from dad's wardrobe. But that's not what the zeitgeist is about, of course.

Source

Max Scharnigg und Julia Werner, Altkleidersommer, in Süddeutsche Zeitung, 11-08-2023, https://www.sueddeutsche.de/stil/mode-stil-stilkritik-london-hipster-1.6115784

[1] LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton commonly known as LVMH, is a French multinational holding and conglomerate specializing in luxury goods, headquartered in Paris. The company was formed in 1987 through the merger of fashion house Louis Vuitton (founded in 1854) with Moët Hennessy, which was established following the 1971 merger between the champagne producer Moët & Chandon (founded in 1743) and the cognac producer Hennessy (founded in 1765). In 2023, with a valuation of $500 billion, LVMH became the most valuable company in Europe.

[2] A global Luxury group owned by the Pinault family, Kering manages the development of a series of renowned Houses in Fashion, Leather Goods, Jewelry and Watches: Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Brioni, Boucheron, Pomellato, Dodo, Qeelin, Ulysse Nardin, Girard-Perregaux, as well as Kering Eyewear. Luxury Group Kering | Kering | Kering

[3] During fashion weeks one can see that collections are becoming more and more wearable and that trend will continue in 2023, in the form of 'quiet luxury'. In general, 'quiet luxury' refers to ways of dressing that subtly hint at luxury, in the form of materials, cuts and unobtrusive logos. We are seeing a return to a more understated approach to luxury, with the style of brands such as The Row, Tod's, Bottega Veneta, Jil Sander and Khaite at the helm. Do not confuse subdued with minimalism, because quiet luxury is expressed in large silhouettes and fine fabrics, albeit in subdued colours. https://www.harpersbazaar.com/nl/mode-juwelen/a43450842/quiet-luxury-trend/

[4] L.F.Markey is a collection of modern, feminine women’s clothing, inspired by workwear and utility. We are known for our use of bold and bright fabrics as well as our core selection of denim pieces. Namesake and ex-Burberry designer, Louise Markey graduated from the Masters course at Central Saint Martins. Prompted by her passion for traditional bleus de travail and artist’s smocks, L.FMarkey was born. L.F.Markey is renowned for its contemporary variations of workwear staple pieces, including signature boilersuits, chore coats, dungarees, work pants, and jeans. https://lfmarkey.com/pages/about-2019

[5] Lamb's Conduit Street is a street in Holborn in the West End of London. The street takes its name from Lambs Conduit, originally known as the Holborn Conduit, a dam across a tributary of the River Fleet.

[6] https://www.folkclothing.com/?_atid=qL25JeOAc8tCGOmsNJp2IOS2Epp5im

[7] https://oliverspencer.co.uk/

[8] https://www.margarethowell.co.uk/autumn-winter-2023-collection

[9] https://www.cabourn.com/en-be/pages/about-nigel-cabourn

[10] https://akindofguise.com/about/

[roamanddiscover]

Manitoba

Manitoba is a province located in central Canada, known for its diverse landscapes, multiculturalism and rich history. It is home to many Indigenous communities and has a vibrant culture with a mix of European, Asian and Indigenous influences. The name Manitoba comes from the Cree word "Manitou-wapow," meaning "the narrows of the Great Spirit," referring to the Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipegosis region. The region was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years before European contact in the 17th century. The province has a fascinating history that includes the fur trade, the arrival of the first European settlers, as well as tensions between Indigenous peoples and Europeans. Today, Manitoba continues to evolve economically, socially and environmentally, and attracts tourists from all over the world. Manitoba's geography includes the Canadian Shield, the Prairies, and the Hudson Bay Lowlands. The province is home to many species of wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, caribou and moose. the province produces large amounts of hydroelectric power from its many lakes and rivers, powering much of Canada's industry. The climate in Manitoba varies depending on the region. The southern area experiences humid continental climate, while the northern region has a subarctic climate with short, cool summers and long winters. Manitobans enjoy many outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, skiing, and snowmobiling in the wintertime. The people of Manitoba are diverse and welcoming, with a mix of English, French, and Indigenous languages spoken throughout the province. The population has increased in recent years, largely due to immigration, making the province one of the most diverse in Canada. If you're planning a visit to Manitoba, you'll find that there is an abundance of cultural and recreational activities, major cities and towns with friendly locals, and a variety of delicious cuisine. Manitoba is a great place to visit, live or work, and is a beacon of hope for all who strive to maintain the balance between economic progress and environmental stewardship.

Etymology in Manitoba

Manitoba is a province located in the heart of Canada, with a history that dates back thousands of years. The name "Manitoba" has an interesting origin and meaning behind it. It is derived from two words, "Manitou" and "Waba", which are derived from the languages of the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the region. The word "Manitou" translates to "the Great Spirit" or "the Creator Spirit", while "Waba" means "the Narrows" or "the Strait". The origin of the name Manitoba can be traced back to the Cree and Ojibwe languages, which were spoken by the Indigenous peoples who lived in the region. The name was first recorded in 1688 on a French map of the Great Lakes region, and it was used to refer to the area around Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipegosis. The name "Manitoba" also has a rich cultural and historical significance for the Indigenous peoples of the region. The Great Spirit referred to in the name is an important figure in their spiritual beliefs, and the Narrows or Strait connects two important bodies of water, Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipeg. Today, Manitoba is known as the "Keystone of the West" and continues to honor its Indigenous heritage through its many cultural events and festivals. The name Manitoba represents the diverse and rich history of the province, and it is a symbol of the connection between the past, present, and future of the region.

History in Manitoba

Manitoba has a rich and diverse history, shaped by both Indigenous and European influences. The area that is now Manitoba has a long history of human habitation, with evidence of Indigenous peoples dating back over 8,000 years. European exploration and settlement in the region began in the 17th century, with the arrival of French fur traders and French-speaking Métis people. British control of the area began in 1763 with the Treaty of Paris, which ceded much of what is now Canada to Britain. The Red River Colony was established in 1811, and over the years it became an important hub for fur trading and agriculture. In 1869, a group of Métis people led by Louis Riel rebelled against the Canadian government, resulting in the establishment of the province of Manitoba in 1870. The early years of Manitoba's history were marked by conflict between the predominantly English-speaking newcomers and the French-speaking Métis population, who felt that their rights and culture were being threatened by the influx of settlers from Eastern Canada. This conflict came to a head in 1885 with the North-West Rebellion, which was met with a strong military response from the Canadian government. In the years that followed, Manitoba became a province in its own right, and its economy began to grow and diversify. It became known for its agricultural production, particularly wheat and other cereal crops, and its rich reserves of minerals and other natural resources. Today, Manitoba continues to be a thriving and dynamic province, with a rich and diverse cultural heritage that reflects both its Indigenous and European roots. Its vibrant arts scene, excellent healthcare system, and strong economy make it an attractive destination for people from all over the world. Indigenous history in Manitoba Indigenous peoples have a long and rich history in the region now known as Manitoba. The province is home to many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Manitoba's Indigenous history dates back thousands of years. The first peoples to settle in the area were nomadic hunters and gatherers who migrated across the Bering Strait and down through North America. These early peoples made use of Manitoba's land and natural resources to survive and thrive. Over time, Indigenous communities in Manitoba developed complex societies and cultures. They established trade networks and formed alliances with neighboring nations. They also created sophisticated art forms, such as beadwork, quillwork, and birch bark biting. The arrival of Europeans in the 17th century had a profound impact on Indigenous peoples and their way of life. Europeans brought with them diseases like smallpox, which devastated Indigenous populations. They also introduced new technologies, such as firearms and metal tools, which changed the dynamics of hunting and warfare. Despite these challenges, Indigenous communities in Manitoba persisted. They adapted to the changing world and continued to hold onto their culture and traditions. Today, many Indigenous communities in Manitoba are actively working to preserve their language, art, and heritage. One example of this is the Manitoba Indigenous Cultural Education Centre, which provides programs and services that promote Indigenous history, culture, and language. The centre works to increase understanding and appreciation of Indigenous peoples among non-Indigenous people in Manitoba. In recent years, there has also been a growing movement to recognize and address the legacy of residential schools in Manitoba and across Canada. Residential schools were government-funded and church-run institutions that were designed to forcibly assimilate Indigenous children into European culture. The schools operated from the 1870s until the 1990s and had a devastating impact on Indigenous communities. Many survivors of residential schools have spoken out about the abuse they endured and the long-term effects it had on their families and communities. Today, Manitoba's Indigenous peoples continue to play an important role in the province's cultural fabric. They have made significant contributions to the arts, literature, and sports, and continue to work towards greater recognition and respect for their rights and heritage. European colonization in Manitoba European colonization in Manitoba began in the 17th century when French fur traders arrived in the region. Through the fur trade, the French established relationships with Indigenous peoples, trading goods for furs. Eventually, the Hudson's Bay Company gained control of the region, leading to increased European influence and settlement. The impact of European exploration and settlement on the region was significant. The arrival of Europeans brought new diseases that had devastating effects on Indigenous populations. The loss of life and culture cannot be understated. As settlement increased, the fur trade began to decline in Manitoba. This led to the development of other industries, such as agriculture and mining. The construction of railroads and the development of transportation systems facilitated the growth of these industries. However, the growth of European settlement in Manitoba was not without conflict. The Métis, a mixed-race group of Indigenous and European ancestry, faced discrimination and marginalization. This culminated in the Red River Rebellion in 1869-70, a significant event in Manitoba's history that led to the province's formation in 1870. The impact of European colonization on Manitoba's culture and land is still felt today, with ongoing efforts by Indigenous peoples to reclaim their land and protect their culture. Manitoba is also home to various historical sites related to European colonization, such as the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, a former trading post and military fort established by the Hudson's Bay Company. the impact of European exploration and settlement on Manitoba's history is complex and multifaceted. While it brought new industries and economic growth, it also had devastating effects on Indigenous populations and their way of life. Understanding this history is crucial to understanding Manitoba's culture and identity today.

Geology in Manitoba

Manitoba's geology consists of a mixture of ancient rocks and overlying sediments. The province has three main geological regions: the Canadian Shield, the Hudson Bay Lowland, and the Interior Plains. The Canadian Shield, occupying the northeastern part of Manitoba, is an ancient mountain range consisting of igneous and metamorphic rocks that are over two billion years old. This region is rich in minerals and contains important deposits of copper, nickel, gold, and silver. The Hudson Bay Lowland, located in the north-east corner of the province, is a flat, marshy region with low-lying valleys and rolling hills that was shaped by glaciers during the last ice age. This region contains vast peatlands, which are important for carbon sequestration and wildlife habitats. The Interior Plains, extending across most of Manitoba, is characterized by flat to gently rolling hills and fertile agricultural land. This region consists of layers of sedimentary rocks deposited by ancient seas and contains important oil and gas deposits. Manitoba's natural resources include minerals, oil, natural gas, timber, and hydroelectric potential. Mining is an important industry in the province, with companies extracting nickel, copper, and zinc from the Shield region. The oil and gas industry is also prominent, with discoveries of oil in southwestern Manitoba and natural gas in the southern part of the province. Forestry is a significant industry in the Interlake region, where companies harvest softwood trees mainly for use in pulp and paper production. Manitoba's abundant water resources provide a source of hydroelectric power, with several hydroelectric dams located throughout the province. - Manitoba's mineral resources: - Copper - Nickel - Gold - Silver - Manitoba's oil and gas resources: - Oil in southwestern Manitoba - Natural gas in the southern part of the province - Manitoba's forestry resources: - Softwood trees primarily for pulp and paper production - Manitoba's hydroelectric resources: - Several hydroelectric dams located throughout the province Manitoba's geology is diverse and provides significant economic benefits to the province through its vast mineral and natural resources. The Canadian Shield, Hudson Bay Lowland, and Interior Plains each have their unique geological makeup and natural resources, contributing to the province's rich landscape and economic prosperity.

Geography in Manitoba

Manitoba is a province located in the heart of Canada, bordered by Ontario to the east and Saskatchewan to the west. Its northern boundary is the 60th parallel, which it shares with the Northwest Territories. The province covers a total area of 649,950 sq. km. The terrain in Manitoba is quite varied. The province is generally flat and featureless, with pockets of rolling hills and escarpments. The northeastern part of the province is dotted with lakes and boreal forests, while the south is predominantly covered in prairie grasslands. Manitoba is also home to several major rivers, including the Red, Assiniboine, and Winnipeg rivers. One of the most notable landforms in Manitoba is the Manitoba Escarpment, which separates the province's southern prairies from the boreal forests to the north. The escarpment runs from western Manitoba into Minnesota and North Dakota. Manitoba is also home to several major lakes, including Lake Winnipeg, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. The province also boasts several smaller lakes and reservoirs, including Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipegosis. The province's location in the center of North America has made it an important transportation hub. Several major highways and railways run through Manitoba, connecting the province with other parts of Canada and the United States. Manitoba's geography is diverse and fascinating, with something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring the prairies, boreal forests, or lakes and rivers of the province, Manitoba truly has it all.

Ecology in Manitoba

Manitoba is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, with a number of unique habitats and ecosystems that support a wide variety of plant and animal life. From boreal forests to grasslands, wetlands to tundra, the province is home to a range of ecosystems that support different types of life. The boreal forest, which covers a significant portion of the province, is home to a number of tree species including black spruce, jack pine, and balsam fir. This forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as moose, caribou, and black bears. The grasslands in southern Manitoba are home to some of the rarest and most endangered species in Canada, including the chorus frog, the loggerhead shrike, and the burrowing owl. These regions are also important habitats for prairie grasses, which play a critical role in preventing soil erosion and maintaining healthy soil ecosystems. Wetlands are another important ecosystem in Manitoba, accounting for roughly 15% of the province's land area. These areas serve as crucial habitat for a wide range of waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, as well as other species like beavers and otters. They are also important for cleaning and storing water, and for mitigating the effects of floods. The tundra in Manitoba's far north is characterized by harsh weather conditions and rugged terrain, but is nevertheless home to a number of native species such as lemmings, Arctic foxes, and polar bears. Manitoba's waters are also teeming with life, supporting fish populations such as walleye, northern pike, and lake trout. The province is also home to a number of species of turtles, frogs, and salamanders. Manitoba is a rich and diverse province when it comes to its ecology, and is home to many species of plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else in Canada. Biodiversity in Manitoba Manitoba is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, thanks to its wide range of habitats. From the boreal forest in the north to the prairie grasslands in the south, there is an abundance of flora and fauna to explore. The province is home to over 320 bird species, including the iconic bald eagle and the great gray owl. Manitoba's waterways are also home to many species of fish, such as walleye, northern pike, and lake trout. In addition, the province has many wetlands, which serve as important habitats for waterfowl and other water-loving species. On land, the province is home to many mammals, such as the black bear, moose, and beaver. Manitoba is also home to many species of reptiles and amphibians, including the western painted turtle and the northern leopard frog. The province's flora is just as diverse, with over 1,400 species of plants. The boreal forest is home to many species of coniferous trees, such as spruce and pine, while the grasslands are dominated by prairie grasses and wildflowers, such as the iconic purple prairie clover. Manitoba's biodiversity is not only important for its own sake, but also for the health of the region's ecosystems and the services they provide. Wetlands, for example, help to filter water and prevent flooding, while forests play an important role in storing carbon and mitigating climate change. The province has several protected areas, such as Riding Mountain National Park, that are dedicated to conserving Manitoba's diverse ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. These areas provide opportunities for visitors to appreciate and learn about the province's natural wonders. If you're interested in learning more about Manitoba's biodiversity, you may want to check out some of the province's nature reserves or parks. The Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre, for example, offers educational programs and exhibits about wetlands, while the Manitoba Museum has many exhibits about the province's flora and fauna. Manitoba's biodiversity is a rich and fascinating subject, with many species of plants and animals to discover. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or just starting to explore the province's natural wonders, there is something for everyone to appreciate.

Moose

Climate in Manitoba

Manitoba has a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The province experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. On average, temperatures can dip down to -20°C (-4°F) in winter and rise to 25°C (77°F) in summer. The variation in temperature is due to Manitoba's location in the center of the North American continent and its distance from large bodies of water. Winter in Manitoba can last around six months and is known for its frigid temperatures. During winter, the province experiences heavy snowfall which can lead to snowdrifts and icy conditions. The annual snowfall averages around 1.2 meters (4 feet). While winter can be bleak and harsh, it also provides ample opportunities for winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Summer in Manitoba can be hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). In the summer, the daylight hours are longer, providing ample time for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. Read the full article

[atlanticcanada]

North American Indigenous Games officially open in Halifax as prime minister attends

The North American Indigenous Games officially kicked off Sunday evening with the prime minister in attendance, as thousands of Indigenous athletes from across the continent filled the main hockey arena in Halifax.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was greeted by cheers and some boos, told the stadium filled with young athletes they will celebrate not only their athletic achievements, but their identity, culture and futures as Indigenous leaders over the next week.

"You are here, young, strong Indigenous leaders, as the inheritors of a legacy of colonialism, of assimilation, of policies in Canada and the United States, that tried to erase your language, erase your culture, erase your identities," he said. "You are still here and you are still strong."

Trudeau said it was important for his government to help fund the games because they further reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and help Indigenous youth connect with each other.

"You know the legacy of residential schools. You've lived it ... And you are stepping up to reclaim that identity, to speak your language, to celebrate your cultures, to understand your traditions, to be the strong leaders of today and tomorrow that this country and this world needs," he said.

The 2023 games will mix Indigenous culture with sporting events, which bring together about 5,000 athletes, coaches and mission staff from 750 First Nations across the continent.

Competitors from Ontario and Alberta led the procession of athletes into the hockey arena as the stadium gradually filled with young people who waved flags and held banners representing their regions. Athletes came from numerous states and provinces including British Columbia, California and Colorado.

Addison Hoyle, a 12-year-old from Treaty 6 Cree territory in northern Alberta, said she was excited to be in Halifax, where she will watch her brother compete in golfing competitions.

"It's cool to see my people all around here," she said as the parade of athletes approached.

Norman Sylliboy, Grand Chief of the Mik'maq Grand Council, gave an opening address to the gathered athletes, officially opening the games.

"As Indigenous people of Canada, our way of life has been constantly attacked and impacted since the arrival of settlers over 500 years ago, and eventually was replaced by foreign powers," Sylliboy said.

"It was the vision to have Mi'kmaq united again, to see all Indigenous brothers and sisters here today working together ... I believe we have the path of healing and hope all Indigenous communities are one day restored."

Near the end of the ceremonies, Mi'kmaq elder Jane Meader spoke to the thousands of young people about the importance of water to her people's culture and to all peoples.

As women poured water from 13 Mi'kmaq communities into a copper bowl, she explained each of the types of water treasured by her First Nation: salt water of the ocean; fresh water for drinking and cooking; the precipitation "from the heavens ... that comes down to us;" and the "sweet water" that comes from trees.

The "final water" is the amniotic fluid which holds children when they are in their mother's bodies, she said.

"As we pray over this water, my daughter will sing the song to thank Creator for all we have received and all we are given. Remember, honour that water, respect that water ... without that water, we cease to exist," she said, to loud applause from the athletes.

In interviews over the weekend, games president George (Tex) Marshall said the goal is to "infuse" all of the 21 venues with Indigenous traditions.

He said ceremonies such as smudging, where sacred smoke is provided to participants, will be available for athletes, coaches and volunteers. In addition, elders will be on scene to provide advice and comfort, and signage will be in Mi'kmaq, along with English and French.

The games are taking place at venues in Halifax, referred to as Kjipuktuk, along with events at Millbook First Nation, near Truro, N.S., and Sipekne'katik First Nation, about 60 kilometres north of the provincial capital.

Events include the traditional Indigenous sports of canoe/kayak, archery and box lacrosse, as well as soccer, softball, swimming, volleyball, wrestling, beach volleyball, rifle shooting, athletics, badminton, baseball and basketball.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 16, 2023.

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/yaFKlgx

[myconsultantcanda]

The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) Program

ECONOMIC CLASS•

FEB 07, 2020

•

BY: DONALD CURRY [CICC ID: R535613]

(RNIP) continues the federal government’s strategy of granting more control over immigration to provinces and municipalities, inspired by the success of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot, which includes Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador launched in March 2017 as a three-year pilot. It has since been extended to December 2021.

The Pilot spurred the federal government to hear out MPs and advocates like myself who argued that what is good for Atlantic Canada should also be good for Northern Ontario. The two regions have much in common: the cities are smaller, spread out and are not attracting newcomers in large numbers; employers complain they can’t find people with the skills they need. Based on this feedback, Ahmed Hussen, the Minister of Immigration at the time, helped move RNIP forward.

RNIP started with a call for communities to express their interest in participating. In June 2019, Minister Hussen announced that 11 communities had been accepted. The communities included Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay and Timmins in northern Ontario; Brandon and Altona/Rhineland in Manitoba; Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan; Claresholm in Alberta; Vernon and West Kootenay (Trail, Castlegar, Rossland and Nelson) in British Columbia.

What do these communities have to offer?

• A lower stress lifestyle without lengthy commutes

• Much more affordable real estate

• Well-paying jobs for those with the right skills

• Good schools

• Quick access to nature

• Friendly and welcoming residents

Everything is a five to ten-minute drive away—work, lakes or rivers, downtown, shopping malls, colleges, universities, immigrant settlement agencies, golf courses, soccer fields, libraries and so on.

Speaking for myself, I have lived in Canada’s large cities—Toronto, Vancouver and Ottawa. They are great. However, life is better in smaller cities in my opinion. I moved to North Bay in 1978 and I don’t want to leave. In fact, not all immigrants come from large cities in their native countries. These people may enjoy living in Canada’s smaller centres.

Who can apply?

To be eligible for the pilot, candidates must intend to settle in the community and meet all relevant requirements such as work experience, language, education and so on.

They must have at least one year of continuous work experience in the past three years or have graduated from a publicly funded post-secondary institution in the recommending community. Volunteer work, unpaid internships and self-employment hours do not count. Work experience claimed by the candidates must include most of the main duties and all the essential duties in the occupation in the National Occupation Classification (NOC).

International students are exempt from the work experience criterion if they have a two-year or greater credential from a post-secondary institution. Other requirements include having studied full-time, graduated in the past 18 months or fewer and lived in the community for at least 16 of the last 24 months during their study. Candidates are not eligible to apply as an international student if over half their program was spent studying English or French, half of their program was through distant learning or they were recipients of a scholarship or fellowship that required their return to the home country.

The minimum language requirements are Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 6 for NOC 0 and A; CLB 5 for NOC B; and CLB 4 for NOC C and D.

It is mandatory for candidates to have a Canadian high school diploma or an Educational Credential Assessment report less than five years old showing the equivalent education.

Other than those who are already working legally in Canada when applying, Candidates must demonstrate they have enough funds to support themselves and their family members while they get settled. Candidates must obtain a job offer from the participating community, which is permanent, full-time and non-seasonal with a wage meeting or exceeding the Job Bank’s minimum wage for the NOC. The candidates' experience must show they have the qualifications for the job.

Each community will detail their additional requirements on their websites.

Which communities are ready?

At the time of writing, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, Brandon and Altona/Rhineland are accepting applications on their websites. The others will be coming soon, and each will have its own methodology.

North Bay, for instance, is coordinated by the North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce with community partners. Coordinator Patricia Carr, announced on January 3, 2020 that the Chamber would begin by inviting only candidates already working in the area who meet all IRCC and community requirements. She said there was a potential of 20 applicants in that category and she didn’t not know how many meet the requirements. By March or April, applications will be opened to those residing outside the North Bay area, or outside Canada, and move toward the maximum target of 100 by posting jobs and matching NOC codes. The original first-year target was 250 principal applicants and their families, but the IRCC lowered this number.

How to apply

To apply, foreign nationals should read the Instruction Guide (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-0118-rural-northern-immigration.html) to first determine their eligibility and then follow the instructions step by step if they are eligible. There are forms to complete for the applicant, the employer and the designated economic development organization in the participating municipality.

Two things for the applicants to note. First, as IRCC staff said in their North Bay training session, this program will not likely be a faster route to permanent residence than existing economic immigration programs. Second, if a foreign national doesn't qualify for the pilot, they still have an opportunity to move to these communities under existing federal and provincial immigration programs.

As for the communities, note that the federal government describes the pilot as a “community-driven program designed to spread the benefits of economic immigration to smaller communities by creating a path to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers who want to work and live in one of the participating communities.” That means the program will not be evaluated on the number of people who come to the community, but by the number of people who stay. Therefore, creating a welcoming community with settlement agencies and other community partners will be a key to success for the communities.