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Read more http://www.forbes.com/pictures/el45emmhl/beat-college-debt-2
CHICAGO (Reuters) – Tribune Co , the owner of the Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune newspapers, has filed a third reorganization plan with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware as the media company attempts to address concerns raised by the court last month. The company said the plan has the backing of its co-proponents, …
Read more http://news.yahoo.com/beat-college-debt-191559708.html
A therapeutic community at Surfside House is providing access for men struggling with addiction issues.
The four-month therapeutic community program for men began Sept. 26 through a partnership between the Nanaimo and District Surfside Society and the Nanaimo Regional John Howard Society.
“We’re very excited about what’s happening,” said Barry Coulson, vice-chairman of the Surfside’s board of directors, adding it’s a much larger piece of the puzzle in providing accessible and affordable addiction treatment.
France Tellier, director of programs for the John Howard Society, said it’s been going well and the program is getting a strong response and lots of referrals from other organizations, such as the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
Clients can also refer themselves to treatment, but must meet eligibility criteria. For information about the self-referral process please call the Vancouver Island Therapeutic Community at 250-758-5611.
Prior to the partnership, Surfside operated a 42-day recovery program that focused on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.
The new program delves further into the recovery process by examining the underlying causes of addiction and building prevention measures. The length of the program, a minimum commitment of four months which can be extended depending on where a person is at in their recovery process, also allows men to create after-treatment plans, such as attending school or transitioning into employment.
The therapeutic program is facilitated by counsellors, has peer-support and Surfside alumni serve as mentors. Residents must abstain from substance use while living at the house.
In 2008, Surfside, like many non-profit organizations, was facing a financial pinch with less grant money to continue operations. The lean times sparked a conversation with the John Howard Society and the creation of the four-month program.
The program is modelled after John Howard’s Guthrie House, which operates at the Nanaimo Correctional Centre. Guthrie House treats up to 30 men and is a group-based residential treatment program where residents are involved in all aspects of their recovery.
Coulson said the therapeutic community program is on the cutting edge and the organizations hope it will become a template for others.
While there are private treatment facilities available, they remain financially out of reach for the majority of people who suffer from addiction issues, Coulson said.
People can donate to the program by contacting the John Howard Society at 250-754-1266 or going to www.canadahelps.org and donating to either Surfside Society or the Nanaimo John Howard Society.
reporter3@nanaimobulletin.com
For Immediate Release
Monday, November 14, 2011
Xin Jin, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health, received the Peter and Patricia Gruber International Research Award from the Society for Neuroscience today during the society’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C. The $25,000 prize is awarded annually to two young scientists whose research includes significant international collaboration and shows exceptional potential for advancing the field.
Dr. Jin’s honor stems from his collaboration with Rui M. Costa, Ph.D., principal investigator of the Champalimaud Neuroscience Program at the Gulbenkian Institute in Portugal on a study that advanced knowledge of how the brain controls movement.
The findings have promising implications for disorders where these signals break down, such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease.
The study, published in July 2010 in Nature, monitored activity in the basal ganglia of mice. These brain structures help start and control movement.
Previous studies investigated and reported changes in the basal ganglia during movement. Dr. Jin’s study was the first to discover that certain neurons in the basal ganglia show a change in activity specifically before mice begin the first step in a sequence of actions and again right before they perform the last step.
“Dr. Jin’s research will open new avenues of research for the treatment and prevention of movement disorders,” says Kenneth R. Warren, Ph.D., acting director of NIAAA. “We are pleased that the Society for Neuroscience has recognized Dr. Jin’s important contributions with this prestigious award.”
The award, established in 2005, recognizes graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, or research associates who are U.S. citizens working abroad or non-U.S. citizens working in the United States. Dr. Jin began his fellowship at NIAAA’s Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience (LIN) in 2007, after completing his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China.
“It is a great honor for me to receive the Gruber Award. I am so grateful for the support of Dr. Costa, LIN chief Dr. David Lovinger, and other colleagues in the lab as well as to the NIAAA intramural research program for constant support,” says Dr. Jin.
Learn more about Dr. Jin’s research study.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, part of the National Institutes of Health, is the primary U.S. agency for conducting and supporting research on the causes, consequences, prevention, and treatment of alcohol abuse, alcoholism, and alcohol problems. NIAAA also disseminates research findings to general, professional, and academic audiences. Additional alcohol research information and publications are available at www.niaaa.nih.gov.
About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
Read more http://www.nih.gov/news/health/nov2011/niaaa-14.htm
All phone numbers 905 unless otherwise listed.
Volunteers
Neighbour to Neighbour Centre needs help in the warehouse and with Christmas hamper preparation and distribution 574-1334, volunteer@ neighbourtoneighbourcentre.com.
St. Joseph’s Hospital needs volunteers during daytime hours to provide comfort to patients and families. 522-1155, ext. 32774
Meals On Wheels needs drivers and servers, 522-1022
Tele-Touch, 522-9587
VON Asian Congregate Dining, Hospice Volunteer Service, SMART Seniors Exercises and Shopping by Bus, 522-0053
Self Help
Zumba for Arthritis, Nov. 20, 2 to 4 p.m., 166 Hwy. 8, Stoney Creek. Refreshments and door prizes. Call 692-4260 to reserve your spot. All proceeds to the Arthritis Society of Canada. Cost $15
From Stress to Strength, a four-week workshop for individuals caring for a family member or friend with a cancer diagnosis beginning Nov. 21, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Wellwood Juravinski House, 501 Sanatorium Rd. Free parking. To register, 667-8870
VON volunteer orientation, Nov. 16, 1:30 to 3 p.m. To register, 522-0053
Hamilton-Burlington Chapter Osteoporosis support group, Nov. 16, 7 p.m., Seniors Active Living Centre, 75 MacNab St. S. 525-5398 to register. Free event
Ostomy Association, Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m., Sacred Heart Community Hall, 24 Poplar Ave. 389-8822
Expressing Your Journey Through Art. A free six-week session beginning Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to noon. To register and for information, 667-8870
Meditation classes, Monday, 7 p.m., Norman Pinky Lewis Recreation Centre, 192 Wentworth St. N. Drop in or email hamiltonsy@gmail.com for information
Goodwill Career Centre Networking Group, Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., 1050 Upper Gage Ave. All welcome. Space is limited. 526-8488, ext. 243
Reiki, Reflexology and Therapeutic Touch programs for those affected by cancer, by appointment, 667-8870 or wellwood.on.ca.
Debtors Anonymous, 524-3885
Recovery From Food Addiction, 12 Steps. No sugar, no flour. Friday, 7:30 p.m., Church of the Ascension, Charlton Avenue East at John Street South. 524-3885
Women for Sobriety Group, Wednesday, 7 p.m., 151 York Blvd., Unit D1. 628-0421
Recovering Couples Anonymous, Tuesdays, 8 p.m., Church of the Ascension, Charlton Avenue and John Street. Use Charlton Avenue entrance. Couples only. 546-8027
Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, 304-6802
Men for Sobriety Group, Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Hamilton General Hospital, 5th floor teaching room. 528-6823
Celebrate Recovery, Friday, 7 p.m., Philpott Memorial Church, 84 York Blvd., 525-3341; celebraterecovery@getchurch.org
Overeaters Anonymous, Monday, 7:30 p.m., Cresmount Funeral Home, 1020 Upper James St., 978-1120; Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., Bethel Christian Reform Church, 616 Dundas St. E., Waterdown, 331-1026; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., Grace Anglican Church, 157 Mill St. N., Waterdown; Saturday, 10:30 a.m., Faith Christian Reform Church, 2265 Mountainside Dr., Burlington, 484-6879
Parenting
CCAS Foster Care information night, Nov. 16, 6:30 p.m., 735 King St. E. For more information and to register, 525-2273 or carol.larsen@hamiltonccas.on.ca
Parent Family Literacy Centres, free weekday drop-in programs for parents/caregivers and their children from birth to 6 years. Registration is not required. Enjoy healthy snacks, fun learning activities and gym time with your child in a school setting. Call 527-5092, ext. 2311 for more information. Westwood School, 9 Lynbrook Dr., 8:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., 537-1056; Bennetto School, 47 Simcoe St. E., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 512-3168; Memorial School, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 512-4925; Prince of Wales, 77 Melrose Ave. N., 8:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., 537-4027; Queen Victoria School, 166 Forest Ave., 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 512-4462; Lake Avenue School, 157 Lake Ave. N., 8:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m., 512-3998; Adelaide Hoodless School, 71 Maplewood Ave., 8:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m., 289-244-5189
Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough Ontario Early Years Centre, 315 Dundas St. E., Waterdown, offers free interactive play time for families of children up to six years. 689-9500 or ontarioearlyyears.ca
Child Care Information Line, weekend care or shift care options, home-based child care and after-school options. 528-0591
Stoney Creek Early Years, has many interactive programs for children up to six years. 573-7905
Wesley Urban Ministries Ontario Early Years Centre, interactive programs for children up to six years. 155 Queen St. N. 521-0926
Meetings
Genealogy, researching Canadian First World War records using online and traditional resources, Nov. 20, 2 p.m. Hamilton Public Library, 55 York Blvd. 318-8086 or ogs.on.ca/hamilton
Hamilton Women’s Connection, Stonecroft Ministries, Nov. 17, 9:30 a.m., Michelangelo’s Banquet Centre, 1555 Upper Ottawa St., Full breakfast, $13. To reserve 575-0607.
Ancaster Quilters Guild, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., St Johns Parish Hall, 272 Wilson St., Ancaster
Flamborough Horticultural Society, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., Strabane United Church, Brock Road. 689-8621
The Ancaster Horticultural Society AGM and Pot-Luck Dinner, Nov. 15, 6:30 p.m., Ancaster Old Town Hall, Wilson Street. 648-5134
The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Hamilton, Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m., Cresmount, 1020 Upper James St. 304-5448.
Soroptimist International of Stoney-Creek Niagara, Nov. 14, 7 p.m., Shoreliner, 500 Green Rd. N., Stoney Creek. Help improve the lives of women and girls, locally and globally. 662-7302, soroptimist.org.
The Burlington Historical Society, Nov. 14, 7 p.m., Burlington Public Library, 2331 New St., Burlington
Ambitious City Toastmasters, Tuesday, 7 p.m., Hess Street School, 107 Hess St. N. Guests are always welcome. 318-1981
Stoney Creek Toastmasters, Thursday, 7:15 p.m., 890 Queenston Rd. stoneycreektoastmasters.com
Burlington Mansion Toastmasters, every Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., Cumis Room, Paletta Mansion, 4250 Lakeshore Rd. E., Burlington. mansiontoastmasters.com
1st Waterdown Toastmasters, Tuesday, 7:30 p.m., Grace Anglican Church, 157 Mill St. N., Waterdown, 1stwaterdowntoastmasters.org
Valley Town Toastmasters, Thursdays, 7 p.m., Dundas Town Hall Auditorium (2nd floor), 60 Main St., Dundas
Fun Times
United Church Women Roast Beef dinner and silent and live auction, Nov. 19, 4:30 p.m., Ryerson United Church, 842 Main St. E. Adult $18, child $8, family $50. 544-3120
A Night Out For Nature, for the Hamilton Naturalists Club, Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m., St. Paul’s United Church, 29 Park St. W., Dundas. Homemade spaghetti dinner made by HNC chefs. Tickets, $25, 524-3339 or land@hamiltonnature.org
Hamilton Parents Without Partners Singles Dance, Nov. 19, 8:30 p.m., Germania Club, 863 King St. E. Admission $10 for members, $15 nonmembers. Tickets at the door. hamiltonpwp73@yahoo.ca
Contra dance, Nov. 19, 7:45 to 11 p.m., Erskine Presbyterian Church, 19 Pearl St. N. $10. No partner necessary. All dances taught and prompted by a caller. hamiltoncontra.ca
Bingo, Nov. 19, noon, Laidlaw Memorial United Church, 155 Ottawa St. N. 544-6536
Love & Believe in Me music video and documentary short featuring girls from the community, Nov. 18, 6 p.m., Art Gallery of Hamilton. Tickets, adults $30 and youth $15, loveandbelieveinme.eventbrite.com/
Open microphone night, Nov. 18, 7 to 9 p.m., the Legion, 280 King St. W., Dundas. All welcome. 627-7221
Greensville Optimists Annual Turkey Roll, Nov. 18, 7 p.m., Town Hall, 283 Brock Rd., Greensville. Free lunch. Food donations appreciated.
Rockton Women’s Institute Euchre, Nov. 17, 7:30 p.m., Beverly Township Hall, 795 Old Hwy 8, Rockton. $2.50. 628-2157
Habitat for Humanity concert, Nov. 19, 7 p.m., Hamilton Mennonite Church, 143 Lower Horning Rd. Music by Hope Raising, Maurice, Mondengo and Peter Tigchelaar. Admission is a donation, 387-3952
Music & Friends: The In Crowd social club for near 50s and plus, every Friday 6 to 10 p.m., St. Giles auditorium, 85 Holton Ave. A fundraiser for The Outreach Program. 385-1290
Festive Celebrity Night, presented by the Canadian National Autism Foundation, Nov. 25, 6:30 p.m., The Grand Olympia, Stoney Creek. Celebrities include, Dave Andreychuk, Style by Jury’s David Clemmer, Janette Ewen, cohost of Inside the Box with Ty Pennington and many more. Tickets, $30, by Nov. 14, 930-8682.
Good food
Pierogy, Cabbage Rolls and Borscht Sale Nov. 25 and Nov. 26, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 855 Barton St. E. Preorders only by Nov. 20, 547-9777
Sunday Brunch, Nov. 20, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Legion, 12 King St. E., Stoney Creek. Adults $8, children 12 and under $4
Chili supper, Nov. 19, 5 to 7 p.m., Marburg Community Hall, 1345 Lynn Valley Rd., $6
Fish Fry, Nov. 18, 4 to 7 p.m., the Legion, 12 King St. E., Stoney Creek, $9, desserts $2 extra
Ham Supper, two sittings, 5 and 6:30 p.m., Jerseyville United Church, 17 Field Rd., Jerseyville. Adults $16, under 12 $6. 648-1893, 648-3615 or 648-3486
Fish or chicken and chips dinner, Nov. 18, 4:30 to 7 p.m., Legion, 280 King St., Dundas, 627-7221
Euchre luncheon, Nov. 16, noon to 4 p.m., Binbrook United Church, 2617 Binbrook Rd., Binbrook. $8 for lunch and cards
Soup and sandwich lunch, Nov. 15, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., The First Unitarian Church of Hamilton, 170 Dundurn St. S. $1 or donation. 527-8441. All welcome.
Stuffed pork dinner, Nov. 15, 6 p.m., Binbrook United Church, 2617 Binbrook Rd. E. Adults $15, 6 to 12 years $6, 5 and under free. For tickets, 692-6464
Bazaars
A Very Beary Christmas Bazaar, Nov. 19, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Emmanuel United Church, 871 Upper Ottawa St.
Craft and bake sale, St. James United Church, 306 Parkside Dr., Waterdown, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Christmas in the Country, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Carlisle United Church, 1432 Centre Rd.
Bazaar, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and live auction, 6 p.m., Nov. 19, Calvin Christian School, 547 West 5th St.
Holiday bazaar, Taoist Tai Chi Society, 86 Hester St., Nov. 19, 1 to 3 p.m.
Bazaar, Christ our Saviour Lutheran Church, 448 Main St. W., Grimsby, Nov.19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Winter Wonderland, Wentworth Lodge, 41 South St. W., Dundas, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Christmas on the Twenty, Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m. Kerr United Church, 9353 Twenty Rd., Smithville
Christmas By Design: Show and Sale, presented by the RBG Auxiliary, Nov. 17 and 18, RBG Centre, 680 Plains Rd. W., Burlington. Admission $2
Miscellaneous
Book Club, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, Cordoba House, 88 Forsyth Ave. N., Nov. 21, 6 p.m. For information and to sign up, 523-1555
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Nov. 20, 3 p.m., The Church of the Ascension, 64 Forest Ave. with guest readers and Bach Elgar choristers. Tickets $20, 527-3505. To benefit a school breakfast program
RBG Get Back to Nature Hikes, Nov. 20, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Cootes North Shore, meet at the Nature Centre
Needing Christmas Help? Mission Services Hamilton special registration day Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 196 Wentworth St. N. for single people or families requiring assistance with food and/or toys. 528-4212 or 528-5100 for more info
Potty Party, to raise funds to build and maintain clean and safe latrines in Kenyan schools, Nov. 19, 1 to 5 p.m., St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 1140 King St. W. Lots of games and crafts. connectingcountries.net
Musica St. James, Nov. 19, 8 p.m., St. James Anglican Church, 137, Melville St., Dundas, starts the season with Amazing Grace. Adults $20, senior/student $15, 627-1424
Caledonia Presbyterian Church Art and Photography Show and Sale, Nov. 19, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Caledonia Presbyterian Church, 117 Argyle St. W., Caledonia. Artists and photographers, potters, glassworks, tattoo artist, china and porcelain dolls, original jewellery
12th Along the Grand Christmas Tour of Homes, Nov. 18 and 19, Grace United Church, 174 Caithness St. E., Caledonia. Tickets/info 765-4890 or graceunitedcaledonia.com
Arts Burlington Christmas Sale, Nov. 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Nov. 18, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Nov. 19 and 20, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission and parking. 1333 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
King George Public School fundraiser in support of the arts, Boston Pizza, 1219 Barton St. E., Nov. 16, 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets $20 includes, silent auction and raffle prizes including Buffalo Bills tickets. For information or tickets 549-2224
Baha’i fireside, Nov. 16, 8:30 p.m., 132 Hillcrest Ave., Dundas, 627-0352.
Are we losing the battle against bullying? Nov. 16, 6 p.m., Westdale Secondary School, 700 Main St. W. Free. Register by Nov. 14, 546-2489
Rotary Club of Dundas travelogue series, Nov. 15, 7:15 p.m., Dundas Central School, 73 Melville St. $8 at the door or $32 for a season pass for five travelogues
Extreme Alien Worlds: A 3-D Voyage Through and Beyond Our Solar System. Explore strange and exciting planets and moons in our solar system Nov. 14, 8 p.m., Michael DeGroote Centre for Learning and Discovery, Room 1110 at McMaster University. For tickets, origins.mcmaster.ca/3D-theatre/
Junior Datebook
National Child Day at the Hamilton Children’s Museum, 1072 Main St. E., Nov. 20, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the Doo Wop Diner and Lights, Camera, Action, 662-8458
Little Fairy Tales for Little People: Little Red Riding Hood & The Three Little Pigs, Nov. 20, 2 p.m., Ireland House
Red Cross babysitting course, Nov. 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 400 King St. E. and 279 Dundas St. E., Waterdown, for youth aged 10 years and older. $65, includes book, lunch and snacks. 522-8485, ext. 1225 or 689-0732
Home schooler programs, primary and junior home-school students, second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m., and 13 to 17 year olds third Tuesday of the month, 1 to 3 p.m., RBG, 680 Plains Rd., Burlington, 527-1158, ext. 270 to register
Museums
Cottonwood Mansion, 740 Haldimand Rd. 53, Selkirk. Volunteers welcome for Victorian Christmas Decorating of Mansion using traditional materials Nov. 14 to 18. 776-2538 or cottonwoodmansion.ca
Seniors
Lunch & Learn Program’ for Seniors and Active Retirees, Nov. 21, 11:30 a.m., Dundas Lions Memorial Community Centre, 10 Market St. S. Naturopathy with Jim Spring, Dundas Naturopathic Clinic. Bring a ‘brown bag’ lunch. To register, 627-5461
Main Hess Seniors Recreation Centre, 181 Jackson St. W. Euchre, bingo, darts, fun band, meals, tai chi and lots more. Memberships $6/year for 55 plus or Hamilton Housing Tenants, 546-4964
Westdale/West Hamilton Seniors, Social afternoon, Nov. 16, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Grace Hall, Grace Lutheran Church, 1107 Main St. W. Speaker, games and refreshments. 529-1257
Compiled by Kathi Aitken,
The Hamilton Spectator
Read more http://www.thespec.com/whatson/calendar/article/623123–too-good-to-miss
Editor’s note: This is the second in an ongoing series on reverse immigration in Austin.
Maria is a hard-working mom. She has children at Austin Public Schools and until recently she had a job to support her family. Juan’s story is similar. He has a wife in Mexico, children in college and grandkids to look out for. He, too, was working until recently.
Both recently left their jobs because their names were on a list of people who didn’t have legal immigration status.
Juan and Maria are among many Hispanics who worked at Quality Pork Processors in Austin, often for many years, but who quit or were terminated during the past couple of months. (Juan and Maria both spoke to the Herald on condition that their real names not be used, because neither is a legal immigrant.)
Members of the Hispanic community told the Herald that 30 to 40 people a week and sometimes as many as 80 a week have been leaving QPP. Company officials said high turnover is common this time of year, but current and former workers said people are leaving due to increasing employment eligibility checks.
The exodus mirrors a national trend in which Hispanics, regardless of immigration status, are leaving places with tough immigration stances or laws.
Former and current QPP workers said executives held a company-wide meeting in early September to tell them the company was involved in a new U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement program known as IMAGE, an acronym for ICE Mutual Agreement between Government and Employers.
Many big-name companies — Hyatt, Chick-fil-A, Best Western International and Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America among them — are working with ICE, with more doing so every year. Participants promise to use ICE’s E-Verify employment eligibility checking system, establish an employment eligibility checking policy which includes I-9 audits, and submit to an I-9 inspection. In return, ICE eases or waives potential fines for I-9 violations, provides I-9 form training and won’t conduct an I-9 inspection for two years.
“The IMAGE program is a business coming to the government saying ‘We would like to work with you,’” said ICE spokesman Shawn Neudauer.
A company can also adopt IMAGE Best Employment Practices, 12 steps that include using a federal service to cross-check workers’ Social Security numbers. The 12 steps were mandatory until ICE streamlined the application process in June. QPP already uses E-Verify, has worked to become IMAGE certified for several years and had its I-9 audit earlier this year.
“It’s just another tool to make sure we’re in compliance with the law,” said Kelly Wadding, QPP president.
Workers told the Herald that 900 out of the company’s more than 1,300 employees were on a list of questionable identities, but Wadding said that claim is greatly exaggerated. He said QPP would not have shared with its employees data on how many workers were on a list of suspected illegal immigrants. Nor, he said, are workers leaving the company or being fired at such a high rate.
“That is not correct, we can tell you that,” Wadding said.
QPP officials told workers that if their documentation was suspect, the company would provide transportation to the Social Security office in St. Paul so workers could settle their legal status. The company also reportedly gave employees until Jan. 1 to get their immigration status clarified.
“People were scared,” said Rodrigo, a QPP worker who is a U.S. citizen but did not want his name published because he is not authorized to speak to the media. Rodrigo didn’t have to worry about his job, because his name wasn’t on the list. Juan and Maria’s names were, however.
Juan didn’t quit right away, though he knew many people who went home and never came back after the company meeting.
Juan wanted to work until the end of December. He was called to the personnel office less than a month after the meeting, however, and told his name was on the list of those whose documentation was suspect. Juan wasn’t surprised, but he said the two workers ahead of him in line were.
“They got very mad because they were legal,” Juan said.
ICE spokesman Neudauer said there are times when an I-9 audit will call a legal citizen’s identity into question, which means a citizen may be the victim of identity theft.
“A lot of times, this is why it’s such a big problem,” he said. “Identity theft in illegal aliens is quite high.”
Maria was worried about her job. She had a family to support and had worked at QPP for almost 10 years. Yet she knew her name would be on the list.
“I was just waiting for the time when they would call me into the office and fire me,” she said.
It didn’t happen immediately. Maria said her supervisor took her aside one day, asking how her family was. He told her to go to the office, where QPP officials told her that her name was on the list. Her supervisor caught up to her before she left, head hung low. He told her he was sorry, but there was nothing that could be done.
There was nothing to be done for Juan either. One of the new workers and a supervisor came up to him one day about an hour after he started his shift. The supervisor told Juan to go to the office. The new worker told Juan he would take Juan’s place.
“It’s nice to know that you don’t come in tomorrow to work,” Juan said. “It’s nice to know. That way you don’t have to go through all that embarrassment.”
Juan admitted he was here illegally when QPP officials talked to him. They told him they weren’t firing him but his name was on the list. Juan quit that day.
QPP officials said the company is adding more workers and expanding production by hiring local workers. The company has advertised job openings since the beginning of October.
QPP workers said the company is hiring more African and Asian refugees as well. Maria, Juan, Rodrigo and others said Latino workers are afraid to train in new workers now.
“If they say you’re training somebody, then you’re next,” Juan said.
They said firings take place towards the end of the week. Juan and Maria’s last days were on a Thursday and Friday, like many workers. They said workers who aren’t called to the office on Friday tell each other they’re safe for another week.
“If you pass after 4:30 (p.m.), you’re safe for now,” Juan said. “You work another week.”
Since they’re here illegally, there’s no recourse for undocumented workers like Juan and Maria. QPP is adhering to the law by firing undocumented workers.
“A lot of employers are looking at it as ‘what can I do to protect my business? What can I do to protect my employees?’” Neudauer said. “This is one tool to help you do the right thing.”
Local community and government leaders have heard about the high turnover and the new workers coming into the area.
“I’ve heard it just about like you’re telling me,” Mayor Tom Stiehm said. Though Stiehm is happy to welcome new residents into the community, he said there’s not much the city can do for displaced workers, since it’s a federal issue.
Maria and Juan are looking for work. They’re applying to places like Arcadia, Wis., where the Ashley Furniture plant is hiring. Rodrigo’s best friend moved there after he was let go, though Rodrigo said his friend was a U.S. citizen. Many Austin residents are moving there, and to Postville, Iowa, and St. Joseph, Mo., where there are meat processing plants. They’re going where the jobs are.
“I have to work,” Juan said. “I’m not worried about finding a job. I have a lot of skills.”
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London, Nov 14 (IANS) A rising number of lawyers, doctors, dentists and vets in Britain are turning ‘functioning alcoholics’, experts have warned.
Addiction specialists have given them the ‘functioning alcoholics’ label because they do not fit the typical image of down-and-out street drinkers, the Daily Mail reported.
There has been a surge in demand from professionals who are seeking rehab treatment abroad so as to avoid being recognised in nearby hospitals or clinics, it is claimed.
Alistair Mordey, who runs a substance abuse clinic in Chiang Mai, Thailand, said the demand for treatment from doctors was growing at twice the rate of any other occupation.
‘We are seeing a lot of professionals coming in, particularly from London,’ he said. ‘They are in workplaces where you really wouldn’t want them to be.’
According to the British Medical Association’s estimate, one in 15 doctors will develop an addiction problem at some point and they are three times more likely to develop cirrhosis of the liver than the general population.
Cirrhosis of the liver is a chronic disease interfering with the normal functioning of the liver; the major cause is chronic alcoholism.
Research has also suggested that up to 24 percent of lawyers will suffer from alcoholism during their careers.
Read more http://in.news.yahoo.com/alcoholism-gripping-doctors-lawyers-britain-114841684.html
New Zealand winger Zac Guildford has issued a public apology following an incident in a bar in Rarotonga and admitted he needs help in his battle with alcohol….
The holidays are often classified as “the most wonderful time of year,” but for those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction they can be filled with stress, fear and increasingly destructive addictive behaviors. The Recovery Place Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center suggests seeking treatment as the perfect gift during the season of thanks and benevolence.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL (PRWEB) November 14, 2011
It is understandable to want to uphold the tradition of family togetherness and joy during the holiday season, but a household entrapped by alcohol and drug addiction is not welcomed by holiday joy, but rather shadowed with fear, dysfunction, pain and helplessness. The Recovery Place Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center fears the traditions of the holiday season will deter those struggling with addiction from seeking treatment.
The holidays are “the most wonderful time of year,” but for those struggling with addiction the exact opposite can be true. While families, friends and loved ones are gathering for holiday celebrations – a time when alcohol abuse is even more socially acceptable than usual – those struggling with addiction are at greater risk of reaching new lows in their disease.
While family togetherness is one of the highlights of the holiday season, some families and loved ones find themselves enabling addictive behaviors or deep in denial of the addiction to keep their loved one home for this special time of year.
The holiday season also brings a rise in drinking and driving, relapse rates, and depression. The Recovery Place understands these threats and seeks to educate the public about its holiday concerns, as well as counsel those in need of addiction treatment.
While putting off addiction treatment to enjoy the holiday season remains a common trend, the truth of the matter is that this is the perfect time of year to finally face this devastating disease. There is no greater gift than the gift of sobriety.
About The Recovery Place:
The Recovery Place Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center provides individualized and client-centered alcohol and drug addiction treatment with multiple programs to fit the needs of any addicted individual. Located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, The Recovery Place provides a comfortable environment with residential onsite living to ensure the best in quality treatment and long-lasting addiction recovery. Trained addiction specialists are available toll-free at (877) 581-2012.
The Recovery Place is part of Elements Behavioral Health, a family of behavioral health care programs that includes Promises Treatment Centers, The Ranch and The Sexual Recovery Institute. Elements offers comprehensive, innovative treatment for substance abuse, sexual addiction, trauma, eating disorders and other mental health disorders. We are committed to delivering clinically sophisticated treatment that promotes permanent lifestyle change, not only for the patient but for the entire family system. For more information about Elements Behavioral Health, visit http://www.elementsbehavioralhealth.com.
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Dr. David Sack
Elements Behavioral Health
562-741-6471
Email Information
Read more http://news.yahoo.com/recovery-place-advises-alcohol-drug-addiction-during-holidays-080818045.html
DANVILLE — Monday, Nov. 14
Events
Danville: Festival of Trees, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., David S. Palmer Arena.
— Open house, South View Middle School, 6:30 p.m.
Meetings
Danville: Kiwanis Breakfast Club, 6:45 a.m., CRIS Healthy-Aging Center, 309 N. Franklin St.
—Danville Rotary Club, noon, Days Hotel, 77 N. Gilbert St.
— Narcotics Anonymous, noon, Prairie Center, 128 N. Vermilion St.; 7:30 p.m., Community Church of God, 535 S. Bowman Ave.
—Golden K Kiwanis Club, 2 p.m., CRIS Healthy-Aging Center, 309 N. Franklin St.
—Vermilion County Emergency Telephone System Board, 3 p.m., Public Safety Building, 2 E. South St.
—Laura Lee Fellowship House Board of Directors, 5:30 p.m., Laura Lee Fellowship House, 212 E. Williams St.
—Young Women on the Road to Success, 6-7 p.m., Laura Lee Fellowship House, 212 E. Williams St.
—Alcoholics Anonymous 12 steps, 12 traditions, 6:30 p.m., Salvation Army, 855 E. Fairchild St.
— Kennekuk Road Runners, 6:30 p.m., Jocko’s Pizza, 305 W. Williams St.
— Moose Lodge 1001, 6:30 p.m. officers meeting; 8 p.m. lodge meeting, Route U.S. 150 and Interstate 74.
—Oaklawn Improvement Group, 6:30 p.m., Danville United Church of Christ, 618 E. Main St.
—Danville Show Chorus of Sweet Adelines, 7 p.m., Harrison Park Clubhouse on West Voorhees Street.
—Golden Eagles Scottish Rite Club, 7 p.m., Masonic Center, 109 W. North St.
—Knights of Columbus, 7 p.m., K of C Hall, 310 Bryan Ave.
—Vermilion Festival Chorus Rehearsal, 7 p.m., Holy Family Church, 444 E. Main St.
—Vermilion County Amateur Radio Association (VCARA), 7 p.m., “A” frame on Woodbury Hill. Contact Tuck at nf9t@arrl.org for more info.
—District 118 school board, 7:45 p.m., closed session on personnel, Jackson Building, 516 N. Jackson St.
BISMARCK: Bismarck-Henning School Board, 7 p.m., Ellen R. Morris Conference Room.
Cayuga, Ind.: Narcotics Anonymous, 6:30-7:30 p.m. EDT, town hall.
CHRISMAN: Chrisman School board, 6:30 p.m., high school.
—City Council, 7 p.m., city hall.
Covington, Ind.: Narcotics Anonymous, 6 p.m. EDT, United Methodist Church, 419 5th St.
—Covington School Board, 6:30 p.m. EST superintendent’s office.
Georgetown: Georgetown Public Library Board, 4 p.m. Georgetown Public Library.
—McKendree Township Board, 6 p.m., McKendree Township Building.
—Georgetown-Ridge Farm School Board, 7 p.m., district office.
—Georgetown American Legion Dornblaser Post 203, 7:30 p.m., Legion Post.
Oakwood: Oakwood Fire Protection District, 6 p.m., Oakwood Fire Station, 527 S. Oakwood.
— Village Board, 7 p.m., village hall.
Rossville: Vermilion County Housing Authority Board, 4:30 p.m., Rossville office.
—Village board Police Health and Safety Committee, 5 p.m., village hall, 120 E. Attica St.
Read more http://commercial-news.com/local/x811212098/Community-Calendar-for-Monday
