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[] | 2016-08-28T14:51:08 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | The Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRAD), Ghana, has said the 0.5 per cent funds from the District Response Initiative (DRI) must be channeled t | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715373%2Fmmdas-urged-to-channel-malaria-fund-through-ghs.html.json | en | null | MMDAs urged to channel malaria fund through GHS | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRAD), Ghana, has said the 0.5 per cent funds from the District Response Initiative (DRI) must be channeled through the Ghana Health Service (GHS) for the prevention of malaria.
The Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) per the guidelines for the utilization of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) for 2016 fiscal year, are required to use half per cent (0.5%) of the DRI for the prevention of malaria.
Mr Issah Hassan Mubarack, the Regional Coordinator of ISRAD, during a media orientation in Wa, said it is their belief that such funds if channeled through the GHS would be better and effectively used for malaria prevention in the various districts.
He said it was for this reason coupled with the waning donor support that ISRAD initiated the “Advocacy for Malaria Stoppage (ARMS)” project to advocate for the judicious use of government funds in the fight against malaria.
He said the project would select five persons in six districts of every region of Ghana to advocate for the release of such funds to the GHS.
Mr Abdul-Wahid Dawono, Upper West Regional Deputy Health Promotion Officer, commended ISRAD for the initiative and said it was in line with the five key areas of health promotion.
Mr Salifu Regwan, the Project Officer, called for effective media partnership to ensure the effective implementation of the ARMS Project.
– | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715373/mmdas-urged-to-channel-malaria-fund-through-ghs.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/85a83eac39aa3e0f1d5f6208d404350b4ece04297e09ec1daad72af6d377bbd7.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T22:51:39 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | Black Stars new boy Yaw Yeboah opened his scoring account with Dutch side FC Twente in their 3-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam at the De Grolsch Veste on Saturda | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715304%2Fstupendous-yaw-yeboah-scores-in-fc-twente-emphatic-win-over.html.json | en | null | Stupendous Yaw Yeboah scores in FC Twente emphatic win over Sparta Rotterdam | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Black Stars new boy Yaw Yeboah opened his scoring account with Dutch side FC Twente in their 3-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam at the De Grolsch Veste on Saturday evening.
Yaw, 19, found the back of the net in the 36th minute with a fantastic volley from a swift FC Twente counter attack.
Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech opened the scoring for FC Twente in the 14th minute before Yaw Yeboah increased the tally in the 36th minute.
Sparta Rotterdam pulled one back through Louis Brogno who scored from the spot in the 54th minute but HaKim Ziyech restored the lead five minutes later.
Yaw Yeboah who was hailed by the coach was a toast if the fans as he justified why he has been handed a late call up by Black Stars coach Avram Grant.
The U20 forward was handed a late call up into the Ghana National team following Leicester City winger Jeffery Schlupp which has ruled him out for four weeks.
By: Sheikh Tophic Sienu @desheikh1 on twitter
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715304/stupendous-yaw-yeboah-scores-in-fc-twente-emphatic-win-over.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/fb70eed498e3a64bcced9de935d62ba670a8291f5406fa2dbd585a696da12fa3.json | |
[] | 2016-08-31T10:53:08 | null | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | Hundreds of upcoming artistes and a number of music lovers last Saturday, August 27 trooped to the auditorium of the Saint Francis College of Education in Hoh | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38588%2Fmassive-turnout-musiga-talent-hunt-audition.html.json | en | null | Massive Turnout @ MUSIGA Talent Hunt Audition | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Anthony Dagbey (middle) in a pose with some of the paricipants
Hundreds of upcoming artistes and a number of music lovers last Saturday, August 27 trooped to the auditorium of the Saint Francis College of Education in Hohoe to witness the first phase of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) talent hunt auditions which lasted for over four hours.
Though 50 young and talented upcoming artistes registered for the first phase of the audition, only 11 participated.
Geoffrey Kobla Adogo, a.k.a. Dziwae, 38, a native of Atiavi in the Keta District, Richard Kwami Dorgbedo, 22, a hiplife artiste from Logba in the Afadzato South District, and Daniel Idoko Chibuzor, 25, a Nigerian national based in Hohoe, were the three discovered artistes.
The Volta region music talent hunt was organised by the Volta Regional Chapter of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), in collaboration with MG-TV and Slim Entertainment.
The talent hunt train, according to the organisers, will make a stopover at three locations – Sogakope, Aflao and Ho – in the coming weeks before the final showdown later in the year.
The first phase of the talent hunt auditions held last Saturday saw young talents going through a series of acapella freestyle in English and their preferred local languages.
Some of the participants were exceptionally great, dazzling the judges with their amazing talents and singing and rapping skills. Others proved to be very elementary, falling short of the standards set, however, they brought humour and excitement to the process.
After the audition, the Volta Regional Chairman of the Musician Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Anthony Komla Dargbey, also known as Tony D, expressed his satisfaction, saying, “There are a lot of talents around the region, so we are targeting those talented youngsters who have never had the opportunity to showcase their hidden talents. We believe these free auditions will help many young people in Ghana to realise their full potential.”
Mr Dagbey reiterated the need for all musicians in the region to register with the union in order to help them tap into the wonderful opportunities being created by the union.
The over-all winner among the 12 finalists will be rewarded with a recording contract, souvenirs from sponsors and organisers, among others.
He, however, appealed to companies and organisations to sponsor the subsequent shows.
By George Clifford Owusu | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38588/massive-turnout-musiga-talent-hunt-audition.html | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/71716d2dc510d430c30bb3210f06bcfecd8fae53defc77691050b8ed970e30ec.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:46 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Blue Ivy Carter, daughter to Beyonce and Jay Z, wowed on the VMA red carpet yesterday (August 28) with a Mischka Aoki dress worth thousands. According to Hol | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38562%2Fblue-ivys-vma-dress-cost-over-10000.html.json | en | null | Blue Ivys VMA Dress Cost Over $10,000 | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Blue Ivy Carter, daughter to Beyonce and Jay Z, wowed on the VMA red carpet yesterday (August 28) with a Mischka Aoki dress worth thousands.
According to Hollywood Reporter , the dress retails for $10,950, and features a gold leatherette bodice, high-low hem, and 3D floral applique.
In addition to rocking her Mischka Aoki dress with ease, the four-year-old also donned a diamond tiara and Giuseppe Zanotti kicks.
Blue Ivy walked the red carpet with her mother, Beyonce who stunned with what was reportedly more than $12.5 million worth of Lorraine Schwartz jewelry. The Houston songstress also wore a gown from Italian designer Francesco Scognamigli.
In addition to putting on what was arguably one of the best performances at this year's VMAs, Beyonce walked away with a record-breaking eight awards , including Video Of The Year for “Formation” and Best Female Video for “Hold Up.”
-hiphopdx | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38562/blue-ivys-vma-dress-cost-over-10000.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/fe6fd3e0f702c55577e963747826ecf9d5d944808b26a9909d1ab397c18f16fd.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T22:52:04 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Minister of Youth and Sports Nii Lante Vanderpuye has backed government rsquo;s decision not to grant the Black Stars players tickets to fly for the 2017 Nation | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715777%2Fsports-minister-adamant-there-is-no-cash-for-black-stars-qua.html.json | en | null | Sports Minister adamant there is no cash for Black Stars qualifier against Rwanda | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Minister of Youth and Sports Nii Lante Vanderpuye has backed government’s decision not to grant the Black Stars players tickets to fly for the 2017 Nations Cup qualifier against Rwanda.
The Stars are scheduled to play the Amavubi in Accra in a dead rubber this weekend but the major talking point has been the decision of the Ministry not to grant players tickets due to financial constraints.
“We think we need to cut cost. We have already qualified for the Nations Cup so the outcome of this game is not important. Why do we want to kill a fly with a sledge hammer?” Vanderpuye asked. “We don’t have the finances. When we were playing more important games we did not make this request. The situation now demands that this is the most prudent step to take.”
“If the players decide to be patriotic and decide to buy their own ticket and come and play, not ask for any winning bonus and go, I would be happy because this is what I have been saying all along; that they need to be patriotic.
“We don’t have a budget for this match. It is that simple. We have other more competing demands. The money is not mine, it belongs to the state.
Reports indicate the Minister had preferred local players to be called for this encounter.
Story by Ghana/Joy Sports | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715777/sports-minister-adamant-there-is-no-cash-for-black-stars-qua.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/c5085342c10db76022341c5e2ac501805ab9a3264c3d9224939daf9fea7de143.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T22:51:45 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Tema, Aug. 29, GNA - Ebo Anderson and Pamela Matondo qualified to represent Ghana for the Global Enterprise Connect (GEC) International Golf Championship schedu | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715762%2Fpamela-anderson-win-global-enterprise-open-golf.html.json | en | null | Pamela, Anderson win Global Enterprise Open Golf | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Tema, Aug. 29, GNA - Ebo Anderson and Pamela Matondo qualified to represent Ghana for the Global Enterprise Connect (GEC) International Golf Championship scheduled for Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in December, this year.
Anderson scored 38 Stable-ford points to emerge champion in the Men's Division while Pamela bagged 33 points to win the Ladies category of the Ghana Division of the GEC Open Championship played at the Celebrity Golf Course at Sakumono, near Tema on Saturday.
The competition dubbed 'Road to Dubai 2016' which attracted more than 100 golfers, saw Malebo Phage taking the second position with 37 points while Francis Akwasi Poku took the third position with 36 points.
Mona Myles-Lamptey came second in the Ladies segment with 32 points while Catherine Boateng placed third with 31 points.
The 'Longest Drive' award went to Mona Myles-Lamptey while 'The Closest to the Pin' prize was won by Yaw Tenkorang Yeboah.
Anderson also received a Gh ȼ 10,000.00 investment policy from Bond Savings and Loans Company Limited.
The one-day 18-Hole Stable-ford competition was co-sponsored by Bond Savings and Loans Company Limited, Raju Ghana Limited, Holiday Inn, Surfline Ghana Limited, Express Pay Ghana, Pisen Technologies Limited and Coca Cola Bottling Company.
Mr Mike Aggrey, President of Ghana Golf Association commended GEC for bringing the competition into the country and was hopeful that the winners would strive very hard to make Ghana proud by winning the ultimate.
Mr Ahn-Zim Wusa Manga, Marketing Officer of Bond Savings and Loans Company Limited said his company would continue to support the promotion and the development of the sport in the country to an international standards.
He expressed the hope that the company would continue to provide relationship-based financial services that focus on value-driven, innovative products and branding and exceptional co-ordination that delivers stability that lead to sustainable long-term stakeholder value.
GNA | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715762/pamela-anderson-win-global-enterprise-open-golf.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/37e9fc8397c26f4ad3efdfffc53b74fc2553fda2b47d3ed00bfcf1e4b3fddce8.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:52:20 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Asante Kotoko forward Dauda Mohammed has been called to the Black Stars to replace injured Ebenezer Assifuah. Assisfuah was initially part of Avram Grant's 2 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F716013%2Fdauda-mohammed-kotoko-forward-replaces-ebenezer-assifuah-in.html.json | en | null | Dauda Mohammed: Kotoko forward replaces Ebenezer Assifuah in Black Stars squad | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Asante Kotoko forward Dauda Mohammed has been called to the Black Stars to replace injured Ebenezer Assifuah.
Assisfuah was initially part of Avram Grant's 23-man squad released last week but after picking an injury while playing for his Swiss club FC Sion he has been ruled out for the Saturday's Group H final AFCON qualifier between Ghana and Rwanda in Accra.
And Grant has swiftly responded by giving Kotoko young star's debut call up for the weekend's qualifier.
The Kumasi based club took to their official twitter handle to confirm Dauda's call up.
Congratulations to Dauda Mohammed for his call up to the Senior National team, Black Stars. #KAK #MoDauda https://t.co/HScBM5XT07 — Asante Kotoko SC (@AsanteKotoko_SC) 2013-07-22 14:22:09.0
For more sports news visit allSports.com.gh | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/716013/dauda-mohammed-kotoko-forward-replaces-ebenezer-assifuah-in.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/87a2c6058f72a37ff6c83e1eab25ad7b42f1760b643a7b4c7e329aa84b2a77d9.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:49:52 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | Coach Avram Grant has handed Black Satellites striker, Yaw Yeboah a Black Stars call-up to replace injured Jeffery Schlupp. Schlupp was named in Coach Avram | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715150%2Fblack-stars-yaw-yeboah-replaces-injures-jeffery-schlupp.html.json | en | null | Black Stars: Yaw Yeboah replaces injures Jeffery Schlupp | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Coach Avram Grant has handed Black Satellites striker, Yaw Yeboah a Black Stars call-up to replace injured Jeffery Schlupp.
Schlupp was named in Coach Avram Grant's 23-man for the final AFCON qualifier game against Rwanda which will be played in Accra on Saturday September 3.
The Leicester defender suffered a hamstring injury which has ruled him out of the Black Stars qualifying game.
The Coach of the senior national team responded by calling up the former Ghana youth international.
The Black Stars have already qualified for next year's tournament having amassed thirteen (13) points so far from 5 games played.
The Rwandans are in second place with six (6) points.
For more sports news visit allSports.com.gh | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715150/black-stars-yaw-yeboah-replaces-injures-jeffery-schlupp.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/ce075e5f19bb8b0d79125183e3213e56fea5140e13323ab7fc195f226dd98c85.json | |
[] | 2016-08-28T14:50:52 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | Libreville (AFP) - Gabon's main opposition candidate Jean Ping said Sunday he had won a presidential election, beating the incumbent Omar Bongo. Official res | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F340147%2Fgabon-opposition-candidate-says-he-has-been-elected-presiden.html.json | en | null | Gabon opposition candidate says he has been elected president | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Libreville (AFP) - Gabon's main opposition candidate Jean Ping said Sunday he had won a presidential election, beating the incumbent Omar Bongo.
Official results of Saturday's vote are due out on Tuesday.
"I have been elected. I am waiting for the outgoing president to call to congratulate me," Ping told journalists and his supporters in the capital Libreville.
The central African country's interior minister has repeatedly stated that only results released by the electoral commission and confirmed by his ministry are valid.
Gabon presidential election
Both of the two frontrunners had already predicted their own victory and accused the other of cheating.
Shortly after polling ended on Saturday, the president's spokesman said, "Bongo will win... we are already on our way to a second mandate."
In his comments Sunday, Ping, 73 added, "as I speak, the trends show we have won."
Hundreds of his supporters began chanting "Jean Ping president!"
Ping said alleged attempts by Bongo's camp to commit fraud had been foiled and that "we will finally see off the regime."
Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba casts his vote at a polling station in Libreville during the presidential election on August 27, 2016
Bongo, 57, has been in power since a disputed election held in 2009 after the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who had ruled the oil-rich Central African country for 41 years.
Earlier, Interior Minister Pacome Moubelet said official results would be released around 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) on Tuesday and that it was "illegal to release results ahead of the official announcement by the competent authorities." | http://www.modernghana.com/news/340147/gabon-opposition-candidate-says-he-has-been-elected-presiden.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/4fb33e8991c2a7d42f7cb4eb3b2ad39f6ecc66c2b29ca29ac13cafc0e491b2b8.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T10:51:51 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | ALL twenty-nine parliamentary candidates of the Progressive People's Party (PPP) in the Brong Ahafo Region have met at Sunyani to strategize on how to win the r | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715848%2Fppp-candidates-strategize.html.json | en | null | PPP Candidates Strategize | null | null | www.modernghana.com | ALL twenty-nine parliamentary candidates of the Progressive People's Party (PPP) in the Brong Ahafo Region have met at Sunyani to strategize on how to win the region's parliamentary seats for the party in the 2016 general elections.
These strategies they believe if well implemented will help them beat their opponents especially the NDC and the NPP and win them not less than 10 seats in the region.
One of such strategies is to preach to the people about getting them employed in the numerous Group Ndoum conglomerate of businesses especially in the GN banks which they said have been opened in all villages and towns in the region. According to National Chairman, Brew Hammond, who spoke to the candidates via mobile phone, the promise of giving jobs to the people will counter the NPP's promise of one district, one factory message and outwit the NDC's vain promises because they have been in government but unable to give jobs to the people.
Mr. Hammond asked the parliamentary candidates to work together with their constituency chairmen and the regional executives to embark on door to door campaign to preach the message of jobs creation when they vote for Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom and his parliamentary candidates saying, 'this is our chance so we don't have to mess with it'.
He lamented the B/A PPP is fraught with divisions and warns that if the division continuous, the region cannot win a single seat for the party. He, however, complained of limited logistics for the party saying the party has only 34 pick-ups to use for the campaigns across the country so he pleaded with them not to worry if they receive a vehicle but not branded with their pictures.
He promised to provide 1000 T-shirts for distribution at the grassroots in the constituencies.
The regional chairman Seth Gomnah who doubles as a branch manager of regional treasury of GN Bank promised the candidates GN bank vehicles in their constituencies to use on campaigns tours on Saturdays and Sundays but have to fuel it themselves, feed and accommodate the drivers; a suggestion which did not go down well with some of the candidates.
[email protected]
FROM Daniel Y Dayee, Sunyani | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715848/ppp-candidates-strategize.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/d28d3b19c64d86381c6e8225d6493f6e2720580a811526b6974d1fcb9f752f6c.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:03:09 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | President John Dramani Mahama has left Accra for Nairobi, Kenya, to attend the 6th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD VI). T | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715051%2Fmahama-in-kenya-for-ticad-vi-confab.html.json | en | null | Mahama In Kenya For TICAD VI Confab | null | null | www.modernghana.com | President John Dramani Mahama has left Accra for Nairobi, Kenya, to attend the 6th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD VI).
This is the first time the conference is taking place in Africa, and according to President Mahama, he’s looking forward to both the bilateral discussions at the political level, and discussions on boosting the private sector’s role in the continent’s growth agenda.
Heads of State will take part in a special high-level engagement with the continent’s private sector and their counterparts from Japan, and also discuss the promotion of structural economic transformation through economic diversification and industrialisation.
Ahead of the conference opening on Saturday, President Mahama will hold talks with the Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, later today and also grant audience to the Executive Director of The Global Fund.
President Mahama is expected back home on Monday August 29. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715051/mahama-in-kenya-for-ticad-vi-confab.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/fb78ff2a4eec9ae57b3802b148438ef6dba14c4207dc9c37a9d9cf693058c46b.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:50:13 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | TP Mazembe have loaned Ghanaian midfielder to fellow DR Congo Super Ligue side CS Don Bosco for the season, the club announced on Friday. The 26-year- | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715153%2Ftp-mazembe-send-gladson-awako-out-on-loan-to-don-bosco.html.json | en | null | TP Mazembe send Gladson Awako out on loan to Don Bosco | null | null | www.modernghana.com | TP Mazembe have loaned Ghanaian midfielder to fellow DR Congo Super Ligue side CS Don Bosco for the season, the club announced on Friday.
The 26-year-old has been down the pecking order since recovering from an injury and wants to look elsewhere for more game time.
Awako joined the Ravens in 2012 after playing with Berekum Chelsea in the CAF Champions League Group stage.
He has played 90 matches (official and friendly) with 13 goals and 26 assists.
With the TPM, he received a winners' medal for the 2015 CAF Champions League, Cup finalists of the CAF 2013,
He also won the DR Congo Super Cup in 2013 and 2014, and DR Congo Super Ligue titles in 2013 and 2014.
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715153/tp-mazembe-send-gladson-awako-out-on-loan-to-don-bosco.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/321d76490390024f18da32e896bd0122a5da42816e015992f5dc7e59360d02b4.json | |
[] | 2016-08-31T12:52:46 | null | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | Initially when I heard the story, I was struggling to believe it, but apparently, after checks I carried out last week, it turned out to be true and for me, rat | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F716237%2Fchristopher-opoku-writes-why-unnecessary-power-play-could.html.json | en | null | Why unnecessary power play could affect Black Stars | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Initially when I heard the story, I was struggling to believe it, but apparently, after checks I carried out last week, it turned out to be true and for me, rather than any concerted effort to get the best out of the Black Stars, it is rather the next instalment in the ugly spat between the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ghana Football Association.
The facts of the matter are that the Ministry has refused to pay for tickets to bring down invited players for Ghana's final 2017 African Nations Cup qualifier against Rwanda in Accra this coming weekend.
The reason given is that since Ghana has already qualified for the AFCON in Gabon, it was needless to bring in top stars when local talent was available, as it would amount to waste of funds.
The GFA initially denied knowledge of any such instruction from the Ministry, until Travel Matters notified the hierarchy that the Ministry had ordered the outfit not to provide any air tickets for the Black Stars.
In order not to disrupt the plans of head coach Avram Grant, the players have been asked to pay their way to Ghana for the match. My understanding is that the players are unhappy but have resolved to come with Vice captain Andre Ayew reportedly offering to foot the bill for tickets for some of his team-mates.
I would not have had a problem if Grant himself had decided to use locally based players or decided to give some of the Black Stars regulars a rest, but the timimg of such an instruction from the Ministry is suspicious to say the least. Indeed, one could even say it is an attempt by the Sports Minister, Nii Lante Vanderpuije to show who is boss.
If this had been the last international game for the Black Stars, perhaps such a move would have had its merits, but in about six weeks' time, Ghana will begin its 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign. So the Rwanda game is actually a preparatory match of sorts for Grant and his coaching staff, which is why the big guns were all invited.
This is unnecessary power play on the part of the Sports Ministry and I believe that under the circumstances, the GFA has done well in not allowing this particular issue to escalate.
What worries me though is that a precedent is gradually being set. I am beginning to wonder whether the Black Stars have lost support from the Ministry and recent comments by Nii Lante Vanderpuije seem to amplify that fact.
In welcoming the athletes who represented Ghana at the 2016 Olympics, the Sports Minister commended the athletes for focusing on competing despite the non payment of their entitlements, adding that their behavior is far better than what the Black Stars put up in Brazil two years ago.
It is very worrying if the movers and shakers begin to regard the Black Stars as mercenaries who only care about the money they would get after games.
I condemned the actions of the players back then, but that should be the end of it, especially with such a difficult group that contains the likes of Egypt, Congo and Uganda to come in terms of world cup qualification. Otherwise, any dream of reaching the 2018 World Cup in Russia might as well be abandoned.
In my view, Nii Lante Vanderpuije should be holding regular meetings with the GFA hierarchy in a bid to resolve whatever differences they have, instead of the unnecessary power play going on because in the end, it is the Black Stars that will suffer, not to mention the fact that the team may no longer become the global brand Ghanaians have been proud of for the last decade at the very least.
–
By: Christopher Opoku/citifmonline.com/Ghana
Blog: christopheropoku.com | http://www.modernghana.com/news/716237/christopher-opoku-writes-why-unnecessary-power-play-could.html | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/4e7ce51b456aa6b1243ba5887036d903de71650583db6da3b67c6b5bfae98063.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T20:51:22 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | Ghanaian midfielder Seidu Salifu has joined Adana Demirspor in the Turkish League, after a successful medical. The former Wa All Stars players completed a mo | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715297%2Fseidu-salifu-ghanaian-midfielder-joins-turkish-side.html.json | en | null | Seidu Salifu: Ghanaian midfielder joins Turkish side | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Ghanaian midfielder Seidu Salifu has joined Adana Demirspor in the Turkish League, after a successful medical.
The former Wa All Stars players completed a move to the Tunisian League when he signed for Club Africain in 2013 and helped them to emerge champions that season, scoring one goal in 26 appearances.
However, he had a difficult time with the Tunisian giants, following months of unpaid salaries. Hence a move to Adana Demirspor would give him the opportunity to relaunch his career.
Seidu Salifu was part of the Black Satellites team of Ghana that won bronze at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey, where he the 22-year-old combative midfielder had goo tournament.
He is a budding talent and expected to earn a place in the Black Stars midfield shortly.
For more sports news visit allSports.com.gh | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715297/seidu-salifu-ghanaian-midfielder-joins-turkish-side.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/1154c9334ed263b18095b390bbd9c23ef006d91839cea6975210f8e71b736848.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T18:50:43 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | Former Black Stars defender Dan Quaye believes he stands in good stead to challenge for a starting berth in the Black Stars defence. The experienced defender | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715136%2Fdan-quaye-believes-he-is-better-than-current-crop-of-black-s.html.json | en | null | Dan Quaye believes he is better than current crop of Black Stars defenders | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Former Black Stars defender Dan Quaye believes he stands in good stead to challenge for a starting berth in the Black Stars defence.
The experienced defender joined Accra Great Olympics midway through last season but failed to help them survive the league as they were relegated on the last day.
Despite this, Quaye believes his form even in the Division One league, is good enough to earn him a recall to the Black Stars.
“I have not changed, I tell you, you can ask some of your colleague journalists that watch our matches, and they will testify everything to you”.
“John Boye and those at Europe, they don’t play regular side, if anyone tells you they play regular side, it in is not true”.
“Ghanaian players who play regularly for their sides in Europe is not even up to ten players or they think we don’t know. I have been there for so many years, I have the self-confidence to play in Black Stars.”
Dan Quaye will be hoping to lead Olympics back to the Premiership alongside compatriot Godwin Attram.
Story by Ghana/Joy Sports | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715136/dan-quaye-believes-he-is-better-than-current-crop-of-black-s.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/42d886c382b2ee434fa23bd9118351b991e39061b7117df11effad53a8cf2874.json | |
[] | 2016-08-31T10:53:04 | null | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | Happy FM's sports presenter, PJ Mosey, born Moses Antwi Benefo, says his 16-year-old career is devoid of bribery scandals and unprofessional records. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38589%2Fim-not-bribable-says-happy-fms-pj-mosey.html.json | en | null | Im Not Bribable Says Happy FMs PJ Mosey | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Happy FM's sports presenter, PJ Mosey, born Moses Antwi Benefo, says his 16-year-old career is devoid of bribery scandals and unprofessional records.
According to him, his attitude towards work has always been positive.
He works diligently and upholds the ethics of journalism. He doesn't give in to unscrupulous endeavours that will jeopardise his track record as a hardworking presenter.
PJ claimed he has never been influenced by money to work in favour of any personality in the sports industry.
“Throughout my 16 years working experience as sport journo there is no single person being an active member in our industry, either being a player or administrator that can say he or she has influenced me in a way or the other to channel a crusade in his or her interest,” he told NEWS-ONE's Francis Addo in an exclusive interview.
His denial followed public secret that certain sports journalists have always been leading crusades for certain key sports personalities.
“Never! There is nobody who has influenced me through cash or whatever for me to channel an agenda in his favour. No! No! If you give me documents and I see these documents are real, they are factual; I mean they are things that will help do something for the public good, I will follow it. I can't be influenced by money. I mean I am a human being, everybody has got his price but it never happened in my 16 years working experience as journo. Nobody had dared or tried doing that to me but I can work to suit someone's interest. That doesn't mean I have been influenced. But per the agenda on board, per the issue at stake I can work to favour you and I can work to disfavour you. That doesn't count as an influence for or against someone,” he emphasized.
He also dared any personality in the sporting arena to come out to challenge him if he or she has ever given him money to skew an agenda in their favour.
“I have dared people on several platforms that I have worked with …Nobody, being administrator or whatever has ever challenged me before,” he added.
PJ is described as an astute and brilliant radio personality who commands massive listenership in Ghana. He was a trained teacher, but abandoned the field to follow his passion, sport presenting.
“I have no regrets taking up this profession in the sense that I love the profession. I love the job. I love my job satisfaction. Somebody will ask what's my job satisfaction? That is what I look out for. Any time I see the Ghanaian audience and the sports arena and I am able to feed them with the information that they needed; it is my job satisfaction.”
He is an old student of Prempeh College in Kumasi and Wesley College where he studied Mathematics and Physical Education. He taught for three years at Anyansu L/A Junior Secondary School in the Bekwai District of the Brong-Ahafo Region. He later proceeded to the University College of Education Winneba, where his radio career took off in 2000.
He was a sports presenter on the campus radio station, Windy Bay. After school, he was posted to Sunyani for his internship and he taught at Odumasiman Secondary School alongside practising radio on Space FM and Sky FM. Upon completing his service, he was recommended by a senior manager to the sports director of Fox FM and that ended his teaching career and the beginning of his radio career. He currently hosts the Anopa Bosuo sports programme on Happy FM.
“I did sports in school. I followed sports. All my family members are into active sports. Some are footballers, others are into other sports disciplines but it is the interest and passion that is there. That is why I abandoned profession as a teacher to come to the realm of sports,” he explained.
In 2013, he was adjudged the Best Radio Sports Presenter at the RTP Awards. In 2015, he graduated from the Sikkim Manipal University with a master's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and has since remained an influential figure at Happy FM.
By Francis Addo (Twitter:@fdee50 Email: [email protected] ) | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38589/im-not-bribable-says-happy-fms-pj-mosey.html | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/c7e2014a2a518e3282c37675a22e19c82c4c575ae0e0b590dd63c8d8a0482b9e.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:50:01 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | Accra, Aug. 26, GNA - Total mobile money float balance at end of June 2016 stood at GHâ 679.2million compared to GHâ 341.3 million in 2015, according to Ban | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715166%2Fmobile-money-value-tops-gh6792million-in-june.html.json | en | null | Mobile money value tops GH679.2million in June | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Accra, Aug. 26, GNA - Total mobile money float balance at end of June 2016 stood at GH₵ 679.2million compared to GH₵ 341.3 million in 2015, according to Bank of Ghana data.
During the same period total number of registered mobile money agents increased to 108,531 compared with about 38,400 in June 2015.
Speaking at the launch of the 2016 Ghana Banking Survey Results, Dr Johnson Asiama, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), said the trend confirmed the wide and growing acceptance of mobile money services as an alternative to other modes of transactions.
'These are funds mobilised for the banks at no cost to the banks; funds, which could have been outside the formal banking system without such an ecosystem,' he said.
The PwC 2016 Ghana Banking Survey Results 'How to win in an era of mobile money' launched in Accra sought the perspective of Banks Chief Executive Officers as to the extent to which mobile money is expected to affect their business and the importance bankers attach to critical success factors in the delivery of mobile money service.
While bankers surveyed perceived mobile money as an opportunity to be explored, they also viewed as a potential threat if non-banks are allowed to provide the service in competition with traditional banking services.
The survey also identified regulations, technology and partnerships as critical success factors.
Dr Asiama said with advancement in technology, the use of non-cash payment products, has become more pronounced, thus moving the country gradually towards a cashless society.
He said BoG is committed to facilitating an enabling regulatory environment for mobile money that would promote financial inclusion without risking the general safety and soundness of the financial system.
In this direction, the Bank is currently working through stakeholder engagement to design a new regulation to replace the Electronic Money Issuers Guidelines.
The new Regulation would bring together all the issues that have been raised with the existing guidelines and also take into consideration technological changes that have occurred since the passage of the guidelines.
He said the Bank through collaboration with industry stakeholders had also developed a web based portal meant to allow seamless submission and analysis of payment systems data.
Also, the Bank has engaged with National Communication Authority to evolve a memorandum of understanding to assist in addressing consumer complaints, recourse mechanism issues and supervision of mobile money operators
Last year, the Bank approved an innovative micro investment scheme that would enable mobile money holders to invest in Treasury bills with values as low as GH₵ 5.00 ($1.31).
This product is not limited to bank account holders; it is for holders of electronic money on the mobile money platform who could initiate the transaction on a phone.
He encouraged the banking industry not to see the mobile money operators as competitors but rather complementary and a vital channel in achieving the financial inclusion agenda and reducing cost of mobilisation of investible funds.
'The mobile network operators have the technology and infrastructure to drive financial inclusion as envisaged and so let us leverage on the technology and agent network to promote financial inclusion without risking the general safety and soundness of the financial system,' he said.
He said the BoG would continue to dialogue and to fine tune the regulatory and supervisory framework to ensure minimized risks and vulnerabilities in the system so as to achieve the financial inclusion objectives whilst we build a robust payments system infrastructure for the country.
Mr Vish Ashiagbor, the Country Senior Partner, PwC Ghana said banks cannot longer operate in isolation but need to build partnerships with other banks and with other service providers to expand their reach and deliver services to the customer in a timely manner. GNA | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715166/mobile-money-value-tops-gh6792million-in-june.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/0015ed126e44387364565f6fd90d019d1be57806e928db55e3bf7b720bc4919c.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T16:49:33 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | By Edmund Quaynor, GNA Koforidua, Aug 26, GNA - Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have made voluntary blood donation in support of the | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715096%2Flatter-day-saints-church-donates-blood-in-support-of-hospita.html.json | en | null | Latter-day Saints Church donates blood in support of hospital | null | null | www.modernghana.com | By Edmund Quaynor, GNA
Koforidua, Aug 26, GNA - Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have made voluntary blood donation in support of the Koforidua Regional Hospital.
Mr. Kwaku Appiah Boateng, President of the Koforidua District branch of the Church, said providing service and caring for the needs of the community was a way of spreading the gospel.
That, he said, explained why they had consistently over the past three years visited to give blood to the facility - to save lives.
They would continue to work for and 'uphold our common humanity', he added.
The congregation had earlier spent in excess of four hours cleaning up the regional hospital alongside two other facilities - Tafo and Suhum Government Hospitals.
It formed part of the 'All Africa Service Project of the Church' under which the members across the continent are expected to offer community service in areas where they live, in August, of every year.
GNA | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715096/latter-day-saints-church-donates-blood-in-support-of-hospita.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/382ee190b0dfc3465684283c3575b06d290b5de26b3e787d3193db89ea252b01.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T10:51:30 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Disingenuously, congress wants all in my motherland, including its own kind to believe that almost four years are missing from the motherland's history. The | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715571%2Fmissing-years.html.json | en | null | Missing Years | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Disingenuously, congress wants all in my motherland, including its own kind to believe that almost four years are missing from the motherland's history.
The view and as they want it to be, is that their hero John Evans Atta Mills took the congress party along with him when he died serving the motherland.
Otherwise, Osono was in charge, January 7, 2001 to January 6, 2009.
A congress administration took over from January 7, 2009 to date. Disingenuously, congress is saying the Atta Mills administration never existed.
Same 2009-2012 congress team vice-president (promoted to president 2012) took no salary, rode no state vehicles and never existed.
Congress is so embarrassed by its record that it has to disown period 2009-2012.
Congress disingenuously insists that even during the first eight months of 2013, they did no work but took their salaries.
Labour Commission (LC), please do something and collect that money back for the motherland.
Every group that refuses to work is threatened to lose money for no work.
In 1995 Harry Sawyerr almost ejected academics from their lodgings for striking. So LC retrieve our money collected by president, his assistant and ministers January 7, 2013 to August 2013.
When one acts dumb but thinks she or he is playing smart, it is disingenuousness. Osono Kokuroko says something from his heart, driven by what he used his brains to achieve; someone picks it up and twists it to suit political propaganda.
That's disingenuousness. The being smart belief is in the head and not in the act.
Statesman Osono said that from experience, a one-time six-year presidential term would serve the motherland better. He knows that will yield tangible development results.
Smart people will hear, describe that as a serious president who contested to build and not loot the national coffers would need six years for meaningful development.
He achieved middle-income in seven years. Congress had projected 20 years for that.
The missing years disingenuousness is allowing a cruel alibi for a motherland's business, economic, education and general wellbeing stagnation.
After eight years expensively squandered in loans and concrete structures of failing cost-benefit analysis, a case is disingenuously being made for never ending waste continuity.
I sat in awe and disbelief as a congress senior member denied bribing my compatriots with goodies. For those who are ignorant, unless they are feigning it, that accepting the branded goods is no guarantee for a vote, I say to them wake up or stop lying.
Each time some goody is handed out for votes, the receiver is forced to surrender their voting card or invoke an oath with a curse consequence to deliver the vote.
My compatriots wouldn't have so soon forgotten the bribing condition that compelled delegates voting to select congress leadership and mantle bearer to snap thumb-printed ballots in the polling booth to confirm whom an elector voted for. It was like a joke. But like congress always does with things like that, they made that obnoxious plan happen.
They always think bad and make the bad a reality. Even when someone has thought good, they will steal that good thought and turn it into bad action.
Just imagine a leader's courage, or shall I say, foolhardy. An offender says you have asked him to offend and insult compatriots to your benefit.
He insults left, right and centre.
Then he carries the recklessness to compatriots who are empowered to deal with motherland wreckers of that type. They punish him and in reckless harsh you say you are above everybody and take that person out of the punishment confirming he perpetrated the act at your behest. That's congress alright!
Here's my aborted conseil d'etat submission: 'It is with the greatest respect that I seek your permission to remind you and Honourable Members about ministerial role in the petition to free the Montie 3, that is before you.
In my most humble opinion, the probability of grave travesty of justice is very high if the might of the Executive, to which the Council of State belongs, is invoked to crush the power of Her Lordship the Chief Justice and the Judiciary arm of government.
This is especially so when ministers of state are part of the petitioners.
By their oath of office (Second Schedule of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, 1992, pp. 207-208), they have sworn to 'uphold, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana as by law established.''
Results of Election 2016 will tell whether my compatriots are discerning or congress disingenuousness would prevail.
It's more incompetence in spinelessness and jellyfish approach to running a motherland.
In 'go forth and sin and I will surely absolve you of that sin,' electronic manipulation of the election results looms large. It's the only logical conclusion from senseless mayhem. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715571/missing-years.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/5a4d4fe05d19bcdf380f2207e8384d15d8b21d6289763f50c5e209c2bf83a145.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T08:51:56 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Our picture gallery of Ghanaian players abroad features Kevin-Prince Boateng, Daniel Amartey, Nasiru Mohammed and more. http://cdn.modernghana. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715483%2Fphotos-ghanaian-players-in-action-abroad-boateng-amartey.html.json | en | null | PHOTOS: Ghanaian Players in action abroad: Boateng, Amartey, Nasiru and more | null | null | www.modernghana.com | no one is good or bad but circumstances does matters.life is pretty short to consider circumstances,so we live our life anyway. By: mackel More Quotes | Submit Quote | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715483/photos-ghanaian-players-in-action-abroad-boateng-amartey.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/e3b12af1ddea05bb20afb99bfcbf418e2ff79dc5273a08ce2c08c35ad30da12f.json | |
[] | 2016-08-28T22:51:08 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | The 2016 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Akufo-Addo, has argued it would be a grave mistake on the part of Ghanaians to retain Presid | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715454%2Fmahama-has-no-plan-vision-for-ghana-akufo-addo.html.json | en | null | Mahama Has No Plan, Vision For Ghana Akufo-Addo | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The 2016 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Akufo-Addo, has argued it would be a grave mistake on the part of Ghanaians to retain President John Mahama for another four years in office,
According to the NPP flagbearer, Ghana is going through hardship now because Mahama has “no plan, vision or action to address the problems of our people.”
Nana Akufo-Addo said: “It would be a mistake to continue with where we are now. So many of the important aspects of our national life, today, are all in retreat. Our economy is in poor shape, and I don’t think there is any honest person in this country, today, who can say Ghana’s economy is working well. It is not working well. Our industries are not working well, our agriculture is not working well, and unemployment amongst our young people is reaching record proportions.”
In spite of these, the NPP flagbearer is assuring Ghanaians that an NPP government under his leadership has a “programme and plan of how Ghana could be, if given the chance”, to serve Ghanaians.
Nana Akufo-Addo was addressing the Bolgatanga Traditional Council, on Sunday, August 28, 2016, when he made these remarks.
The NPP flagbearer explained that the party’s programme of developing Ghana, and returning her onto the path of progress and prosperity is hinged on the twin-track of industrializing Ghana’s economy as well as increasing agricultural productivity.
This, he added, are the means by which his government, God-willing from 2017, is going to create jobs for the teeming masses of unemployed Ghanaians.
“The most critical thing that all of us have to work on is how to improve the functioning of our economy. If our economy is working well, jobs will be created, income levels will rise and we will have prosperity in the country. That is the only way we can guarantee prosperity. An economy in decline or in retreat only means poverty for all of us. The economy that is working means all of us will be in a better place that where we are today in Ghana,” he stated.
The spectre of young men and women trooping down-South from the North, to find non-existent jobs, he said, is because there are virtually no opportunities for them in Northern Ghana.
“We can reverse all of that with proper planning and serious policy. We are determined to do so in the interest of Ghanaians. What is important for us to do in Ghana is to make sure that every part of the country becomes its own centre of wealth. This situation whereby all wealth is concentrated in Accra and Kumasi is dangerous for the future of the country,” he said.
He continued, “It means that these two poles have everybody rushing there. We want every part of Ghana to be its own growth pole and area of wealth creation. That is why we are talking about ‘1-District-1Factory’, so that in every area there is an activity ongoing which will engage them and improve their living circumstances.”
Nana Akufo-Addo, thus, appealed for the support of the people of the North in this year’s elections, assuring that “we have got, without any reservation, the best team available in Ghanaian politics today to develop our country. We have high quality men and women, who when given the opportunity, can turn Ghana around in a short period of time can put smiles on their faces, money in their pockets and prosperity in every region. It is possible for us to do it.”
“It is being done next door to us in Cote d’Ivoire – a smaller country, less population, less resources. But, because of the quality of the leadership there, they are makes big leaps and bounds there. I believe that it is possible on the back of the elephant to rebuild our nation and bring prosperity back to Ghana.” | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715454/mahama-has-no-plan-vision-for-ghana-akufo-addo.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/7b3283b33d1d963bfca26d3a9da411ba7e19b0ead374212cd1e74d4fa77a3557.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T22:51:36 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | Undefeated Ghanaian boxer Isaac Dogboe has been crowned the new WBC Youth Featherweight champion after he defeated his opponent from the Philippines John Neil T | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715308%2Fisaac-dogboe-wins-wbc-featherweight-title.html.json | en | null | Isaac Dogboe wins WBC featherweight title | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Undefeated Ghanaian boxer Isaac Dogboe has been crowned the new WBC Youth Featherweight champion after he defeated his opponent from the Philippines John Neil Tabanao at the Ghana Police Headquarters in Cantoments/
All three judges scored 120 -109 117-113 and 119-110 on the score cards for Dogboe to annex the WBC World Youth and WBO Asia Pacific featherweight titles in addition to the WBO Africa title he already holds.
Although ‘ The Royal Storm’ sustained an injury in the left shoulder after the second round, he managed to pull off the win with inspiration from his coach who doubles as his Father Paul Dogboe.
“Tabanao is a very strong guy and after the second round I lost my hand anytime I threw the left it just felt like it was coming off”.
“But I thank God for this victory and also Tabanao for coming to Ghana to fight”.
“We actually proved that this is really indeed is the Son of God fighting”.
However disappointed John Neil Tabanao is ready for a re-match from any part of the world considering that Dogboe welcomes the offer.
Meanwhile Isaac Dogboe has moved in the world rankings to number five in the featherweight division and number one in Africa.
Story by Ghana/Joy Sports/Joseph Adamafio | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715308/isaac-dogboe-wins-wbc-featherweight-title.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/672d0144fd040ac1078427abfe76e5103b00859f5e238fab619982c1027b1c69.json | |
[] | 2016-08-28T16:51:11 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | Spanking hot and fresh on the airwaves is talented rap ace and extraordinary producer ldquo;DANNYBOI rdquo; who is back with two singles he dubbed | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38526%2Fnew-music-dannyboi-dannyboicray-everybody-flavour.html.json | en | null | New Music: Dannyboi (@Dannyboicray) - Everybody + Flavour | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Spanking hot and fresh on the airwaves is talented rap ace and extraordinary producer “DANNYBOI” who is back with two singles he dubbed EVERYBODY & FLAVOUR.
The Abuja breed with real names DANIEL NKEMAKOLAM who is currently unsigned to any record label is introducing a new movement he tagged "A LEGEND IS BORN SEASON" to promote his debut masterpiece mixtape he simply called #ALIB_TheMixtape.
The new singles "EVERYBODY" & "FLAVOUR" is highly attributed with very nutritious contents and is guaranteed to get you off your feet.
Check On Them...
EVERYBODY AUDIO DOWNLOAD LINK:
http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/uciiw28omw/DannyBoi_Ft_Lil_Piro_-_EVERYBODY.mp3
FLAVOUR AUDIO DOWNLOAD LINK:
http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/mf6ypsg8jd/DannyBoi_-_FLAVOUR.mp3 | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38526/new-music-dannyboi-dannyboicray-everybody-flavour.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/1947420ab79f645cda4321d0b38d6d9e7388ef04e28ebf9a5ace623cfb03ffa8.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T12:51:41 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan says he regrets his 'unfortunate' early exit from Sunderland after leaving the Black Cats after just two years at the English side | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715585%2Fasamoah-gyan-regrets-his-unfortunate-early-sunderland-exit.html.json | en | null | Asamoah Gyan regrets his 'unfortunate' early Sunderland exit | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan says he regrets his 'unfortunate' early exit from Sunderland after leaving the Black Cats after just two years at the English side.
The China-based attacker arrived in England on Sunday morning to evaluate a number of loan offers from English clubs.
The powerful attacker is considering a season-long loan move away from Chinese Super League team Shanghai SIPG after being declared surplus to requirements.
Sunderland are among the three clubs reported to be keen on the Ghana star.
Gyan spent two years playing in England for Sunderland before moving to the UAE club Al Ain in 2012.
He moved from the UAE to Chinese club Shanghai SIPG and the Ghanaian says he should have stayed longer with the Black Cats.
"Sunderland is a good club. It was unfortunate I didn't play for many years there," Gyan said
"I had to leave and that is football. Sometimes you stay for a long time at a club and then other times you go."
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715585/asamoah-gyan-regrets-his-unfortunate-early-sunderland-exit.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/6919651ad983940fc04d87af7586fc8ad4d79cf66a88b702bbaf840148f3ae0a.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T06:51:53 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Emmanuel Ocran returned from a long silence to register a hat trick against Dreams FC in Wa while Abednego Tetteh continued his stupendous form to also regis | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715792%2Fghanasoccernetcom-gpl-wk-xxvii-best-xi-abednego-tetteh-em.html.json | en | null | Ghanasoccernet.com GPL WK XXVII Best XI: Abednego Tetteh, Emmanuel Ocran register hat tricks; John Moosie denies Kotoko home victory | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Emmanuel Ocran returned from a long silence to register a hat trick against Dreams FC in Wa while Abednego Tetteh continued his stupendous form to also register a hat trick against ailing Hearts of Oak with John Moosie pulling over seven great saves to deny wounded Asante Kotoko a win at home at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Prince Baffoe made it into the team for the first time following his heroics for Inter Allies against New Edubiase in Tema, registering a brace while Emmanuel Osei Baffour and Godfred Saka continued their magnificent form for AshGold and Aduana Stars respectively.
Mauel Zacharias of Bechem United emerged coach of the week with 4:3:3 as the system of the week.
1. John Moosie -GK (Berekum Chelsea): John single-handedly denied the Porcupine Warriors a win at the Baba Yara Stadium. He pulled more than seven great saves to stop the wounded Reds from scoring. He sparked controversy amongst the technical men as to who becomes the MVP of the game as some went for him with others going for Osei Agyemang of Kotoko.
2. Godfred Saka (Aduana Stars): Saka still remained in the team of the week following his wonderful display against WAFA at the Red Bull Arena. He guided his side to steal a point from the dreaded Arena where all the big guys fell this season.
3. Iddrisu Mohammed (Techiman City): Another player who sparked controversy with regards to the MVP award over the weekend. Iddrisu stood amongst his colleagues as his full back role was executed to perfection. He was theostrich productive player in the City squad and was excellent with his tackle and crosses.
4. Alfred Nelson (Bechem United): Nelson is one of the soldiers of the Bechem side who has spiced the team in the second round. He was excellent against Hearts and shut the door on the Phobian attack. His partnership with Akwasi Acheampong was splendid. He guided his side to victory.
5. Osei Agyemang (Kotoko): Agyemang rose as the confirmed MVP of the game with Chelsea at the Baba Yara Stadium. He was excellent on the occasions Chelsea broke with a counter. He supported the attack and defended well.
6. Malik Akowuah (Medeama SC): Missing in action for a while, Malik returned with a huge impact for Medeama against Dwarfs. He guided the Mauves to a 2-0 away win over Dwarfs and won the MVP of the game.
7. Osei Baffour (AshGold): He scored the only goal for his side against troubled Hasaacas and nd rose as the MVP of the game. He was support on the flanks for the Miners and was always kept in check by the visitors but he teared off with the winner for his side.
8. Enock Atta Adjei (Medeama SC): He scored all two goals for Medeama at the Robert Mensah Sports Stadium in Cape Coast. He was the chief tormentor for the visitors.
9. Abednego Tetteh (Bechem United): He scored a hat trick against Hearts of Oak. All his goals were a master class of discovering the net and rose as the MVP of the game.
10. Emmanuel Ocran (Wa All Stars): Another player with a hat trick over the weekend. He won the game for his side against Dreams FC and won the MVP of the game.
11. Prince Baffoe (Inter Allies): Baffoe emerged the MVP of the game with New Edubiase after his brace condemned the Bekwai-based side to a 4-0 defeat at the Tema Park.
By: Sheikh Tophic Sienu @desheikh1 on twitter
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715792/ghanasoccernetcom-gpl-wk-xxvii-best-xi-abednego-tetteh-em.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/89cee3ad95c264b669e54fbe949a9c804382a202f137b3ccff35c97d39451bb4.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T08:52:12 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Ghana's 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying opponents Uganda will play Kenya today (Tuesday) to prepare for their must-win game against Comoros this weekend. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715805%2Ffifa-2018-world-cup-qualifiers-ghanas-opponents-uganda-to.html.json | en | null | FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifiers: Ghana's opponents Uganda to play Kenya in friendly today | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Ghana's 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying opponents Uganda will play Kenya today (Tuesday) to prepare for their must-win game against Comoros this weekend.
Cranes coach Micho Sredejovic will utilize the friendly against the Harambee Stars to assess the fitness levels.
He will also try out different tactical formations and also work on small but very important details like set pieces.
If Uganda beat Comoros, who are currently bottom of Group D with three points, the Cranes will earn 13 points —which will be the highest point tally of all teams looking at making Africa's top showpiece through the two tickets available for the second best finishers.
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715805/fifa-2018-world-cup-qualifiers-ghanas-opponents-uganda-to.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/1bfc0cd826d14fb3ab5c6206d06f95d824ea332459c64d6ac1dfc93840c5e083.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T16:50:36 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | The Flagbearer of the Progressive People's Party, (PPP), Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, has urged the people of the Volta Region to vote for jobs and not based on allegi | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715277%2Fvote-for-change-forget-allegiance-nduom-tells-voltarians.html.json | en | null | Vote For Change, Forget Allegiance Nduom Tells Voltarians | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The Flagbearer of the Progressive People's Party, (PPP), Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, has urged the people of the Volta Region to vote for jobs and not based on allegiance.
According to Dr. Nduom, the Volta Region has not been rewarded for their unflinching support to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) so they should endeavour to vote for someone who has the ability to create jobs and strengthen the cedi.
“Volta region is one region I hold dearly to my heart. The people of the Volta region are a hardworking people who will do wonders when given the opportunity that is why this year everywhere I go the people tell me they are voting for jobs and not on allegiance”.
He therefore asked the people to join the many Ghanaians who have decided to vote for jobs in the December 7 elections by voting for Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom and the PPP.“Everywhere I go, people say they are seeking for jobs, most people have identified Edwumawura as the solution, why don't you join them in delivering the jobs Ghanaians need?”
Dr. Nduom was addressing a mini rally at Peki Avatile to outdoor Felix Lartey as the PPP's parliamentary candidate for the South Dayi district.
Responding to loud cheers from the crowd, Felix Lartey, asked the people of South Dayi to support him to make his dream of using his position as a member of parliament to lobby for development for the area.
“I am seeking your mandate to go to parliament not to enrich myself, but to use my position to lobby for development for South Dayi. This constituency has been neglected for far too long despite our unflinching support to the NDC. So I am asking you to change the pattern just to feel real development”.
He implored on the crowd gathered to vote for Dr. Nduom for president and also vote for him to go to parliament.
Dr. Nduom was accompanied by the Chairman of the Council of Elders of the PPP, Mike Eghan Snr, National Chairman, Nii Allotey Brew Hammond, National Secretary, Murtala Mohammed and Mr. Ladi Nylander.
– citifmonline | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715277/vote-for-change-forget-allegiance-nduom-tells-voltarians.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/da6dbbc81b2c2194eb5c7f5e16922d17198fae4d4f71d896985268e5656797d5.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T14:50:01 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | The wife of the 2016 flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has assured the people of Ningo and Pampram, that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is committed to | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715080%2Fakufo-addo-is-competent-full-of-wisdom-mrs-akufo-addo.html.json | en | null | Akufo-Addo is competent, full of wisdom -Mrs Akufo-Addo | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The wife of the 2016 flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has assured the people of Ningo and Pampram, that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is committed to building one factory in each district, to stimulate the economy and generate jobs.
Mrs Rebecca Naa Okaikor Akufo-Addo made this statement when she presented some items to the Ningo and Prampram Traditional Councils for the celebration of the Homowo festival.
Mrs Akufo-Addo said "Akufo-Addo is competent and full of wisdom."
She was accompanied by the Greater Accra Regional Executives of the NPP and the Parliamentary candidate for Ningo Prampram Constituency, Sylvester Tetteh.
The wife of Nana Akufo-Addo told the people of Ningo and Prampram, that as a daughter of the area, she would support and promote their well-being and that of Ghanaian women and children if her husband is voted into power.
She urged the people of the area to vote massively for Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP parliamentary candidates.
President of the Ningo Traditional Council, Nene Atiapa I and Mankrado of Prampram Traditional area, Nene AtsereBenta III thanked Mrs Akufo- Adoo for her visit, presentation and well wishes.
The chiefs wished Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP well in the upcoming elections.
Story by Ghana| Myjoyonline.com | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715080/akufo-addo-is-competent-full-of-wisdom-mrs-akufo-addo.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/7b31ff543a1461bdd98a9526d515372a4b90b9c82df294dc74aadb68498f816a.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T10:52:05 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited (GGBL), Ghana's leading total beverage business, has appointed Isaac Tosu as the Supply Chain Director effective September 2017 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715855%2Fguinness-appoints-new-supply-chain-director.html.json | en | null | Guinness Appoints New Supply Chain Director | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited (GGBL), Ghana's leading total beverage business, has appointed Isaac Tosu as the Supply Chain Director effective September 2017.
Mr Tosu will be a member of the Executive Management Team and report to the Managing Director.
His responsibilities will include embedding operational excellence and enhancing supply organizational capability in service of GGBL's ambition of becoming the best performing and most trusted and respected consumer goods company in Ghana.
Isaac joined GGBL as an Engineering Performance Manager in 2012 from Unilever Ghana.
During his time at GGBL, Isaac has served as the Head of Engineering and Compliance and most recently Brewery Manager – Achimota.
Under his leadership as Brewery Manager, the Achimota Supply Chain Department transformed the brewery to be one of the most improved sites in Diageo.
Francis Agbonlahor, Managing Director, GGBL said, “I am delighted to have Isaac join the executive management team. He will certainly bring value to our business with his expertise, inter-personal skills, focus and resilience.
“As the first Ghanaian Supply Chain Director, Isaac's appointment is testament to our commitment to grow and develop talent within the business.”
GGBL, a subsidiary of Diageo PLC, the world's premium drinks producer, has operated in Ghana for over 50 years.
It is the only beverage business listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) and operates from two breweries in Ghana- Achimota in Accra and Kaasi in Kumasi. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715855/guinness-appoints-new-supply-chain-director.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/07b2b45df925f2d8e684d1f85b779fd1cf774a12d0e2d8e055ad374ac4c55040.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:52:11 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Stories from Inusa Musah, Nkwanta The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Nkwanta South has advised the youth against fomenting violence before, during a | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F716031%2Fdont-take-gh40-to-burn-ghana-nkwanta-dce-tells-youth.html.json | en | null | Dont take GH¢40 to burn Ghana Nkwanta DCE tells youth | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Stories from Inusa Musah, Nkwanta
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Nkwanta South has advised the youth against fomenting violence before, during and after this year's general elections for GH¢40 from any politician.
Alfred Kofi Wukanya told the youth that governance is about the continuation of a previous government's development programmes and working hard to better the lives of the citizenry.
“And the beauty that democracy brings us is the healthy exchange of divergent views, such that, whoever is able to convince the electorate to buy into their ideas is voted for to lead the nation. Do not allow anybody to pay you GH¢40 to destroy or burn Ghana,” he advised.
Three districts in the Volta Region – Nkwanta South, Nkwanta North and Krachi- Nchumuru – under the auspices of Royals Health Organisation (ROHEO), with funding from Star Ghana and its partners – UKAID, DANIDA and European Union – were brought together to pledge their commitment to uphold peace before, during and after this year's election.
Dubbed the 'Nkwanta Declaration', opinion leaders, political youth groups and representatives of the Electoral Commission (EC) pledged to hold the peace in the three districts after signing of the election 2016 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of peace and co-existence, and marching through some principal streets of Nkwanta.
Alfred Kofi Wukanya, who was the Guest Speaker at the 'Nkwanta Declaration', reminded the youth that the sales from their farm produce was more than the paltry GH¢40 any insensitive politician would pay them to burn Ghana for their political gain.
“Be wise and know that that politician who would buy your conscience would disown you should the law grab you for your violent act.” He entreated the opinion leaders to continue engaging their youths in nation-building.
Joe Soglo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ROHEO, on his part, explained that the participation of all citizenry in electioneering activities was cardinal to development and peace, consequently, the need for everybody to work towards equal participation in the 2016 elections.
To this effect, he said, there was the need to avoid marginalisation and work towards promoting inclusiveness to uphold the existing peace in the country.
Mr. Soglo, therefore, called on politicians, who are the main actors in elections, to avoid coercing innocent citizens, especially the youth, to cause mayhem to destabilise the peace of Ghana.
Furthermore, he urged the EC and its representatives to make all voting centers favourable and accessible to all the political parties, and remain an unbiased referee, to promote the acceptance of the outcome of the elections.
To the media, he pleaded for decorous reportage, and, if possible, avoid publishing or airing provocative utterances of nation-wrecking politicians or political activists.
Finally, Joe Soglo advised the youth to reject any form of financial inducement that might trigger violence, or have the tendency of disrupting the peace in their constituencies.
Victus Tetteh, Consultant for the project, was hopeful that the 'Nkwanta Declaration' would yield the needed results, explaining that ROHEO and its partners and sponsors would continue to remind all the participants of their words and the MoU.
The other partners of ROHEO are CAAP Ghana and YODREP. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/716031/dont-take-gh40-to-burn-ghana-nkwanta-dce-tells-youth.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/6e6ed1a09e9d4a2e34a16b993de95665d381afa6a522e7fa52ec703eef7eb80c.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T12:50:34 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | The Ministry of Education has dismissed claims by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), that there is a freeze on the recruitment of lecturers in | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715231%2Fgovt-denies-utag-claims-of-freeze-on-lecturers-recruitment.html.json | en | null | Gov't denies UTAG claims of freeze on lecturers recruitment | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The Ministry of Education has dismissed claims by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), that there is a freeze on the recruitment of lecturers into the country’s public tertiary institutions.
The Ministry says claims by UTAG are untrue, citing approval of some teaching staff for employment into the universities.
“There is no ban on recruitment because we are aware that approval has been given for some 1, 018 teaching and non-teaching staff for the tertiary staff. This number is the exact number requested by the tertiary and non-teaching staff through the NCTE, the Public Relations officer of the Ministry of Education, Francis Gbadago said.
The President of UTAG, Harry Agbanu, had said the freeze on employment of lecturers by the public universities had created some inconvenience in the various institutions.
“The vacancies that need to be filled by the University of Ghana, as regards all categories of staff stands at 1,200. Technical approval by Public Services Commission provided for 897 workers to be recruited. Surprisingly, financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance gives the university only 238 slots to be filled putting undue pressure on the few lecturers available,” Agbanu had said early this week.
However, Mr Gbadago said tertiary institutions that needed more staff were free to make requests but had to go through the right processes for approval.
“If the Universities need additional staff to be recruited, it’s a very simple issue. They need to go through the due process by submitting their request through the National Council for Tertiary Education and it will be worked on for approval,” he said.
“Reducing the intake for the institutions as suggested by UTAG is not an option because we have given them the opportunity to recruit more lecturers if they deem it fit; but then it must go through the due process. They must request it through the NCTE and when it gets to us, we’ll forward it to the Ministry of Finance for approval,” Gbadago adds.
Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | GN | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715231/govt-denies-utag-claims-of-freeze-on-lecturers-recruitment.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/c1ab8d6b6a56297de9beaed5b558b51c254ee9f93fbb69b8fd13a048df56cd8c.json | |
[
"Sammy Heywood Okine"
] | 2016-08-28T00:50:43 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | Ghana Black Sharks rsquo; striker Richard Osa was in full scoring moment on Saturday as he led the attack to enable his team wallop Kenya by 10 goals to thr | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715330%2Fghanas-black-sharks-beat-kenya-10-3-in-african-beach-socc.html.json | en | null | Ghanas Black Sharks Beat Kenya 10 3 In African Beach Soccer Qualifier | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Ghana Black Sharks’ striker Richard Osa was in full scoring moment on Saturday as he led the attack to enable his team wallop Kenya by 10 goals to three.
Osa who plays for La Wuo Gbee scored four goals after Kenya had taken the lead at the pirates beach in Mombasa.
Other scorers for Ghana were Alfred Torsu with three goals, Husseini Mohammed with two goals and Michael Sema of Keta Sunset with a goal.
An elate Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, President of the Ghana Beach Soccer Association (GBSA) says his team has come of age and ready to conquer the continent after years of laboring and striving hard to be among the best in Africa and the world.
He commended the players for their discipline and the coach for his tactical display which has earn Ghana the most important away win.
The President of GBSA also thanked the Minster of Youth & Sports Nii Lantey Vanderpuije who made it possible for the Black Sharks to have $30,000 for their trip to Mombasa, Kenya.
He praised the media for their support and hoped to qualify and if possible win the African Cup.
Madagascar won the last tournament in the Seychelles last year after beating Senegal in the final
Senegal, who are three-time champions and have been to five World Cup finals, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt and Nigeria are some of the leading teams in Africa, but “Ghana is coming like Kakai to top the continent” said Theo Armah, Assistant Coach of the Sharks.
The return leg is scheduled for the weekend of 16 September. | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715330/ghanas-black-sharks-beat-kenya-10-3-in-african-beach-socc.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/b04226d026013b0654d68b739f98320be2567d723ec0298a87b9687c74676fcf.json | |
[
"Tweneboah Senzu"
] | 2016-08-28T00:51:02 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | currently, approaching to an election day, a lot of political campaign promises is spewing out across the length and breadth of Ghana which all need a | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715333%2Fis-it-feasible-to-build-a-factory-for-each-district-in-ghana.html.json | en | null | Is It Feasible To Build A Factory For Each District In Ghana | null | null | www.modernghana.com | [1.0] currently, approaching to an election day, a lot of political campaign promises is spewing out across the length and breadth of Ghana which all need a critically intellectual examination to assess it feasibility of application.
Since Bastiat Ghana as a Liberal Economic Think Tank is ideologically friendly to industrial growth and economic empowerment, it became a priority to examine such case through a comparative studies based on historical perspective, taking into consideration current economic status of Ghana’s economy.
[1.1] Questions raised;
Is such promise possible, considering the stage of Ghana’s economic development Examining the political and Institutional dynamics existing, could such promise be realized, within a stipulated period of time in Presidential term of office
[1.2] to address the above raised questions, relevant foundational argument need to be laid out to define the conflicting understanding on certain politico-economic terminologies, which are “policy” and “institution”; is there a significant difference in both words in the action of state economic management? It obvious that majority may quickly respond yes, if your respond is yes, then I tell you this very day, you lack a clear understanding of what a developing and underdeveloped economy means under the school of economic studies. Such is the reason why, despite government interventions, yet we are having a deteriorating standard of economic living in developing country like Ghana.
[1.3] I posit that the two terms “Policy” and “Institution” are inseparable in economic management, because good “policies” is as good as it “Institutions” that produce and implement it. Therefore it will be an intellectually suicidal to adopt Eurocentric recommended policies (from a developed economy) to be implemented by an Institutions of developing or underdeveloped countries.
[1.4] It quiet surprising and strange, when most Ghanaian scholars are engaged in intellectual discourse on the challenges facing the country economy, they quickly resort to historical economic comparative and analytical argument using Eurocentric economic systems as standards to measure the Ghanaian economy without considering for a second, what it was like when Britain, USA, France or Germany were at the stage of developing economy. And possible ask themselves what kind of policies and institutions were in existence. If you will want to have historical data information of how the developed countries structures and systems looked like in the past, when they were on the status of developing economy. I will recommend literatures at my reference column, for further reading.
[1.5] in other to avoid the misdirection of my ultimate objective of this essay, will limit my scope of digression. Critical study into the Ghana’s Economic structure depict that, it possible for the setting up of factory in each district of Ghana, if only it will be backed with a centrally aggressive and accurate policies with it institutions. Especially in a time, where the Trade Ministry of Ghana has chosen to strangle Ghana as a republic state into European Partnership Agreement, while the economic fundamental index indicate clearly, the effect, such a decision will have on domestic industry as well as the adverse damaging impact it has in both medium and long term structure of Ghana industrial economy comparative to the anticipated benefit presented on the table.
[1.6] Historically, economic progress of state, in a globally level, has been engineered by government with a well defined philosophical patterns, accompanied with regulated policies and institutional dynamics to respond to circumstances and market development in both internal and external. It may look ambitious per the outlook of the promise by the NPP as a Political Party but it very possible when such agenda is driven by central government than individual perspective under a classical theoretical frame work. And will prove my case with historical evidence, using Great Britain as a case study being the colonized masters of Gold Coast which adopted the name Ghana after the attainment of independence.
[1.7] Analyzing the economic developmental patterns of Britain’s in the early 19th Century to the current status. George Friedrich List known as the father of the Infant Industry, argued in his book The Natural System of Political Economy in 1841 that “In the presence of more developed countries, backward countries cannot develop new industries without state interventions”. Great Britain is known to be the first country to historically perfect the art of infant industry promotion.
G.F.List (1841) argued further, Britain having attained to certain grade of development by means of free trade, the great monarch perceived that the highest degree of civilization, power and wealth can only be attained by a combination of manufactures and commerce with agriculture. They further perceived that their newly established natives manufactures could never have hope to succeed in free competition with the old and long established manufactures of foreigners, hence they sought to a system of restrictions, privileges and encouragement to transplant on their native soil the wealth, the talents and the spirit of enterprise of foreigners. Ha-Joon Chang(2003) posit “The characterization of British industrial development is fundamentally at odds with the prevailing view of Britain as a valiant free-trade, free-market economy fighting against dirigiste countries on the continent, eventually proving the superiority of its policies with an industrial success unprecedented in human history”.
G.F.List makes an emphatically scholastic statement in his works and I quote “Free-trade is beneficial among countries at similar levels of industrial development”. This further deduces that any free trade agreement or arrangement globally will only be to the advantage of developed economy under the detriment of less developed economy. Even though G.F.List acknowledge the benefit of Free trade to agricultural exporters in less developed economy but he was quick to emphatically state, such will go against it manufacturing industries, hence affecting it long term economic prosperity. Ha-Joon Chang with a keen look into the contemporary economic arrangement and it doctorines from global super powers assert “ it is a very common clever device that, when anyone has attained the summit of greatness, he kicks away the ladder by which he has climbed up, in order to deprive others of the means of climbing up after him.”
[1.8] This really define the Cosmopolitical secret and tendencies of current European Union Administration, which developing countries should be mindful in the adoption of it recommended policies, that has complex difficulties to it applications but rather should resort to home grown policies created by its own institutions which is highly synchronized to the cultural value of it people
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS TO DRIVE THE INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENT AGENDA
[1.9] Advocacy Think Tanks are to be used by government as it grassroots educational arm instead of the mere media advocacy and exposure in a sensational level that easily leads to misunderstanding, or misleading of the bare fact to the benefit of the masses. It very unfortunate that in the economic structure of Ghana currently, most of the Advocacy Think Tanks are intellectual operating independently with no regulations, which easily open the door as a panacea to the distortion of fact of reality, as a strategy which has the capability to denial central government, it ability to harmonize developmental project agenda through the full support of the masses.
An intellectual Think Tank with a defined specialty could become a weapon of philosophical instructions to the masses to drive strong patriotic spirit, to support state agenda without being politically biased in nature but a service to the state.
[10.0] The summary of Bastiat Institute argument is to laude the idea of district industrial establishment, with an intellectual prove of the feasible nature of such a course, and submit that the masses which has majority of it component as the youth will pay critical attention to such proposal and offer their full support, a means to resurrect the current decline in the standard of economic living.
REFERNCE
G. F. List (1841) The National System of Political Economy Ha-Joon Chang (2003) Kicking Away the Ladder Development Strategy in Historical Perspective One district one factory idea is bold step towards industrial reform - Graphic Online - | 2016 http://www.graphic.com.gh/news/politics/one-district-one-factory-idea-is-bold-step-towards-industrial-
E. Tweneboah Senzu, Ph.D. DBA. CBE.
Executive Director & Head of Research
Bastiat Ghana-Liberal Economic Think Tank
Head of African Institute of Forex & Commodity Trading
www.bastiatghana.org
[email protected] | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715333/is-it-feasible-to-build-a-factory-for-each-district-in-ghana.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/adc6a33e48b0eede10db3dfcec6bda3a1eadf0d008931810f9e8440b6dadf3c1.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T04:49:59 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | LIBREVILLE (GAB) (AFP) - One of Africa's largest oil producers and among the continent's wealthier nations, small lush Gabon holds a presidential election Satur | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F713636%2Ffive-things-to-know-about-gabon.html.json | en | null | Five things to know about Gabon | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Supporters of opposition candidate Jean Ping want him to replace Ali Bongo as Gabon president. By Marco Longari (AFP/File)
LIBREVILLE (GAB) (AFP) - One of Africa's largest oil producers and among the continent's wealthier nations, small lush Gabon holds a presidential election Saturday at a time of rising social tension due to the global slump in oil prices.
The vote sees one of the strongest challenges yet to 50 years of rule by the Bongo family, with incumbent Ali Bongo, who stepped into his father's shoes on his death in 2009, challenged by a former top African diplomat, ex-African Union Commission chief Jean Ping.
- Central African oil 'emirate' -
Because of its potential to use abundant offshore oil reserves discovered in the 1970s to build a strong middle class, Gabon was once dubbed "central Africa's little emirate".
Gabon
Oil accounts for 60 percent of the country's revenues.
But with world prices sliding, forcing layoffs in the oil sector, Gabon rejoined the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in July after more than 20 years outside the cartel. It is OPEC's smallest member, pumping 200,000 barrels per day.
Gabon is the world's second largest producer of manganese, and its vast forests provide 12 percent of global timber exports, including coveted tropical hardwoods.
- Wealthier than most Africans -
Gabon in 2015 was ranked 110 out of 188 countries on the United Nations Human Development Index -- among the top 10 African nations listed on the index.
Gabon presidential election
Per capita gross national income (GNI) in 2015 was estimated at $9,210 (8,130 euros) by the World Bank -- about four times greater than in most sub-Saharan African nations.
But because of high income inequality, about one-third of Gabon's population of 1.8 million people still live below the poverty line.
Between 2010 and 2014, the economic growth rate was about six percent but it has fallen to 3.9 percent this year, according to a World Bank forecast, because of the slump in global oil prices.
- Forests and chimps -
Straddling the equator on Africa's Atlantic coast, forests cover about 80 percent of Gabon, hosting amazing wildlife.
In 2002, Omar Bongo created 13 new national parks that cover around 11 percent of Gabon's territory to protect its wildlife and forests from excessive logging.
Gabon has sought to cash in on eco-tourism by showing off its wild gorillas, chimpanzees, panthers, elephants and hippos.
At 267,667 square kilometres (103,346 square miles), Gabon is slightly larger than the UK, two-thirds the size of Japan.
- Stable government but at a price -
The country has enjoyed relative political stability, mainly because former colonial power France helped Omar Bongo rule for 41 years, the third longest reign in modern Africa after Haile Selassie of Ethiopia and Moamer Kadhafi of Libya.
Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba stepped into his father's shoes on his death in 2009
After he died in June 2009, his son Ali won an election but opposition media claimed he had essentially been installed by France.
The population is roughly 80 percent Christian, while Muslims and animists account for the other 20 percent.
- CAN football finals -
Gabon next year hosts the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) football championship finals, starting in January.
Record seven-time champions Egypt and first-time qualifiers Guinea-Bissau are among 10 countries which have so far booked places at the 2017 Africa CAN.
Algeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, Morocco, Senegal and Zimbabwe also secured places and Gabon are automatic participants as hosts of the 16-nation tournament. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/713636/five-things-to-know-about-gabon.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/4796f751ad627c981eb0532cd1b6f30699711f89ea5a8fed8a806111d0f61267.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T06:51:28 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Millions of Ghanaians could lose access to treated water due to the impending closure of three major water treatment dams due to the activities of illegal minin | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715481%2Fgalamsey-could-force-closure-of-3-treatment-dams-ministry.html.json | en | null | Galamsey could force closure of 3 treatment dams Ministry | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Millions of Ghanaians could lose access to treated water due to the impending closure of three major water treatment dams due to the activities of illegal mining, according to the Ministry of Water Resources, Works and Housing
The dams in question are the Barekese dam, the Kyebi Treatment plant and the Daboase water treatment plant.
The effects of the activities of galamsey operators around the plants have compelled management of these plants to shut down the dams to prevent it from total collapse.
Speaking to Citi News, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Water Resources, Works and Housing, Abraham Otabil, lamented that the activities of these illegal miners is making it difficult for the various plants to operate.
“The activities of galamsey operators have become a source of worry. As soon as the Minister visits the site, then these operators run into the bush; but whenever we return to our various offices, these guys come back to operate,” he said.
He confirmed that the Kibi water treatment plant “is giving an indication that within the next few days, if nothing is done, the treatment plant will be shut down.”
“As we speak now, Barekese in the Ashanti Region is being threatened seriously. We are looking at the Daboase Plant which is also seriously under siege by these galamsey operators,” Mr. Otabil lamented.
Farmlands also suffering effects of galamsey
Illegal miners are reported to have destroyed large swathes of cocoa farms at Bepotenten and Gyamang, two farming communities in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region. The levels of devastation have resulted in some residents abandoning their farming activities and relocating their families to other communities to prevent them from falling into the open gullies dug by the illegal miners. A Chinese woman, identified as Madam Asia Huang, is said to be the lead operator, working with some Ghanaian collaborators.The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has since commenced investigations into the alleged illegal mining activities.
–
By: Delali Adogla-Bessa/citifmonline.com/Ghana | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715481/galamsey-could-force-closure-of-3-treatment-dams-ministry.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/17513a0fe9b6a057047d89e8a9a7089572b0ad17f317dc3e1a3567a01bbc9b25.json | |
[] | 2016-08-28T06:50:51 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | The Central Regional Campaign Coordinator of the incumbent National Democratic Congress (NDC), Cassiel Ato Forson, has shot down the opposition New Patriotic Pa | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715341%2Fnpps-promise-to-reduce-taxes-deception-ato-forson.html.json | en | null | NPPs promise to reduce taxes deception Ato Forson | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The Central Regional Campaign Coordinator of the incumbent National Democratic Congress (NDC), Cassiel Ato Forson, has shot down the opposition New Patriotic Party's (NPP) promise to reduce taxes if elected into office.
According to him, it will be unwise for any government to implement such a measure, which he argues will be inimical to the growth of the economy.
The New Patriotic Party has chastised government for increasing taxes to the point of burdening businesses and has pledged to reduce and in some cases scrap some taxes should the NPP be voted into office on December 7.
But addressing party supporters of the NDC at a ceremony to outdoor the NDC’s Central Regional Campaign Task-force at Agona Swedru in the Central Region, the Deputy Finance Minister said the current tax policy if reversed will negatively affect the economy.
The Ajumako Enyan-Essiam MP said no party in Ghana can reduce corporate tax by 50 percent as promised by the opposition NPP.
“I have heard somebody saying he would reduce taxes by fifty percent when he wins power. I want to ask that person that corporate tax in Ghana is twenty-five percent; so it means reducing it by fifty percent would take us to twelve and half percent, he should show me one African country who's corporate tax is twelve and half percent and also point out to me one lower middle income country who's corporate tax is twenty-five percent. It's true that talk is cheap and the truth is one” he noted.
He added that president John Dramani Mahama's administration has revamped all defunct factories, invested in agriculture and built a resilient economy for industries to increase production and also employ more youth in 2017.
“You and I know that president Mahama's administration in a short time has revamped all the defunct factories including the Komenda Sugar factory and the Kumasi shoe factory. Who said we are not doing well in the agriculture industry? We have been able give out free fertilizers, free seedlings and expanded the fishing industry by helping the fishermen to acquire outboard motors. We have managed the economy well on a strong foundation which would employ more youth in 2017. The inflation is going down for industries to produce more.”
Also speaking at the ceremony to launch the campaign, the Vice President, Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, charged supporters of the NDC, to start a door to door campaign in order to retain President John Dramani Mahama in power and also increase their parliamentary seats in the central region.
He said the NDC government has done enough for the people of the central region and he is optimistic the region would also reward the party in the upcoming polls.
“We have a party that is not divided and we are ready to retain power so vote for President Mahama and our twenty-three parliamentary candidates who are ready to work for you. And let me also add that, President Mahama is winning this election one touch. I know you are also working to achieve the agenda twenty seats.” he stated.
–
By: Akwasi Akoranteng/citifmonline.com/Ghana | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715341/npps-promise-to-reduce-taxes-deception-ato-forson.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/a6c7c54ab2f46d1fedcd6c9a3fba636fdb7ff5a58d259cc5643233667bd2ebde.json | |
[
"Ghana Mission New York"
] | 2016-08-30T08:51:57 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | The United Nations today (August 29, 2016) asked all member states who have not as yet ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT rsquo;) to do | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715808%2Fun-calls-for-immediate-ratification-of-nuclear-test-ban-trea.html.json | en | null | UN Calls For Immediate Ratification Of Nuclear Test Ban Treaty | null | null | www.modernghana.com | The United Nations today (August 29, 2016) asked all member states who have not as yet ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT’) to do so now in order to end the poisonous legacy.
"Those States whose ratification is required to bring the Treaty into force should not wait for others. Even one ratification can act as a circuit breaker", the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon stated in his message at the UN headquarters in New York to mark the International Day Against Nuclear Tests.
The UN chief lamented that "since its adoption 20 years ago by the General Assembly, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty has yet to enter into force.
"Given the catastrophic risks posed by nuclear weapons to our collective human and environmental security – even our very existence – we must reject this stalemate", Mr. Ban Ki-Moon pointed out.
To correct the present situation, he charged all states that have not done so to sign and ratify because every ratification strengthens the norm of universality and shines a harsher spotlight on the countries that fail to act.
In his words "On this Day, I call on all countries and peoples to work for the CTBT’s entry into force as soon as possible so that we may advance toward a nuclear-weapon-free world".
For nearly a decade, the United Nations Secretary-General said he had witnessed many of the worst problems in the world as well as our collective ability to respond in ways that at times seemed impossible.
He argued forcefully that a prohibition on all nuclear testing "will boost momentum for other disarmament measures by showing that multilateral cooperation is possible, and it will build confidence for other regional security measures, including a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction".
"Our ambitious new 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change have demonstrated the power of political will to break longstanding deadlocks', he noted saying that "on this International Day against Nuclear Tests, I call on the world to summon a sense of solidarity commensurate with the urgent need to end the dangerous impasse on this issue".
Recalling his visit to Semipalatinsk in 2010, Mr. Ban Ki-Moon said he saw the toxic damage – but "I also witnessed the resolve of the victims and survivors. I share their determination to strive for a world free of nuclear weapons".
Today marks a quarter of a century since the closure of the Semipalatinsk test site in Kazakhstan, ground zero for more than 450 nuclear tests. The victims there are joined by others scattered across Central Asia, North Africa, North America and the South Pacific. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715808/un-calls-for-immediate-ratification-of-nuclear-test-ban-trea.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/29c1b9642fd1e302ca99a41c8dd328d1f83ab0b8bbb8aabd280dace8a1bc2bc4.json | |
[
"Bakus Radio"
] | 2016-08-26T13:05:57 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | Quata Budukusu is in the news again as his song, One Life to Live, is included in the USA Coast 2 Coast mixtape. The NextUp Mixtape vol. 358 released 24 Aug | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38506%2Fone-life-to-live-by-quata-budukusu-makes-stride-in-the-usa.html.json | en | null | One Life To Live By Quata Budukusu Makes Stride In The USA | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Quata Budukusu is in the news again as his song, One Life to Live, is included in the USA Coast 2 Coast mixtape. The #NextUp Mixtape vol. 358 released 24 August 2016 in the USA, had Quata Budukusu's tune on track 8 of 46.
Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes is the most downloaded mixtape series in the world, with over 250 volumes, all officially hosted by major artistes. Coast 2 Coast mixtapes started in 2006 and had worked with some of the biggest hip-hop and R&B celebrities in the game. They include: 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Game, Pharrell, Nas, Lupe Fiasco, Wyclef, French Montana, Wale, Meek Mill, Rick Ross, Chris Brown, LL Cool J, Fabolous, Flo Rida just to mention a few. Therefore, to have your song included on their mixtape is no mean achievement as stated by Quata Budukusu. Quata concluded by saying he is ready to bring the world to Africa, Ghana to be precise, and not the other way round.
Before leaving for South Africa for his collaboration works with some of the top South African artistes, Quata hinted that he would be working with some top Ghanaian musicians before embarking on his journey in the coming month. He also noted that with his management behind him, all he sees is success. Quata continued by saying he is in no competition with anyone, and he is taking his time to make his music mature rather than rushing and not making any impact after his comeback. "I am triumphal with the rate at which my team is working. We are working hard every day, and I know very soon, the story will change. “Success is all I see” Quata maintained.
Take a listen and leave your comment below.
http://coast2coastmixtapes.com/mixtapes/mixtapedetail.aspx/nextup-mixtape-vol-358?track=8 | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38506/one-life-to-live-by-quata-budukusu-makes-stride-in-the-usa.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/08acbc3b8545a4c5d302978c5e6c5eb2fe29a1db8fd6af71fbbeb3a6306fc41a.json | |
[] | 2016-08-27T18:50:39 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | We have read media reports on News 24 regarding the alleged comments by Finance Minister Gordhan to his Treasury Staff, about the Gupta family, with deep di | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715209%2Fgupta-family-responds-to-alleged-comments.html.json | en | null | Gupta Family Responds to Alleged Comments | null | null | www.modernghana.com | We have read media reports on News 24 regarding the alleged comments by Finance Minister Gordhan to his Treasury Staff, about the Gupta family, with deep disappointment.
We have repeatedly pointed out that our family has been a victim of a political campaign against it. A narrative has been constructed against us, which has been perpetuated by many media titles, and that flawed perception has become the truth in the eyes of some. Meanwhile, no charge has ever been brought against us. We repeat the challenge to our detractors – if you have evidence against us, please bring it. Otherwise, please leave us alone. We have no interest in politics, only business.
We remain fully committed as shareholders to ensuring that our business are run on sound business lines with all transactions being done on a transparent, arms-length basis. We hold our executives to high standards and would not hesitate to take action against any one executive who breaches our internal codes of good practice, or indeed, any regulatory, or legislative policy, procedure or framework. We firmly believe in the rule of law and we are happy to answer to any and all allegations made against us.
Finally, to the media, may we plead with you to not unneccesarily position us in the middle of the current issues in our country. | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715209/gupta-family-responds-to-alleged-comments.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/c3b505da91273d135d7379026baee4221815d09159148683d05d69ac87a181ed.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:52:26 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Nii Osah Mills, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has called for strategies that would respond to youth crime, re-integration and after-care services | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F716032%2Fghana-must-strategise-for-youth-crime-and-re-integration-.html.json | en | null | Ghana must strategise for youth crime and re-integration .. Nii Osah Mills) | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Nii Osah Mills, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has called for strategies that would respond to youth crime, re-integration and after-care services to support the development of vulnerable children and the youth.
He said re-integration and after care services would address repetition, restore normal behaviour among juveniles and enhance reform.
Nii Osah Mills was speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a Re-integrated Juveniles Centre at Dodowa in the Greater Accra Region by the Child Research and Resource Centre (CRRECENT), a Non-Governmental Organisation championing the re-integration of juveniles in Ghana.
He said the youth bulge was a common phenomenon in many developing countries including Ghana where social unrest of all kinds associated with children and young people could emerge.
“Ghana is going through a demographic transition where it is predicted that the population of adolescents and young adults in the country is expected to hit 5.3 million by the end of last year, 2015,” he said.
Nii Osah Mills said that could be gradually taking the country into the dreaded youth bulge phase.
He said government recently came up with a comprehensive work plan to compliment the National Youth Policy and stressed the need for public private partnership to take advantage of the work plan to address delinquency and juvenile crime in the country.
“It is our hope that civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, and corporate bodies among others will compliment government's efforts to give hope to young people while securing the human resource of our dear country,” he said.
The Minister, therefore, commended the CRRECENT for directly intervening through its juvenile re-integration programme.
Ms Sussan Sabaa, the Executive Director of CRRECENT, said the centre had dedicated itself to the protection of young people over the past 10 years.
She said the dream to have the project started in 2003 when the Juvenile Justice Act came into being showed that there was a huge gap when young people left correctional centres and integrated into society.
Ms Sabaa said her organisation was commissioned in 2010 by Plan Ghana to do a baseline survey on the programme on Juvenile Justice in Ghana being supported by European Union.
“It was there that the dream got rekindled and became more urgent because the baseline brought out the challenges of young people who came out of incarceration to face in society.
They are totally neglected, stigmatised and there is no structured programme to support them,” she said.
Ms Sabaa said the CRRECENT sought to give those young people what they needed to be effectively reintegrated into society.
She said they would move beyond reintegrating to providing the young people with shelter for their smooth transition into society. GNA | http://www.modernghana.com/news/716032/ghana-must-strategise-for-youth-crime-and-re-integration-.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/941d1ff59efe3ae477a2e94d457025e84ce2c4cddcbabfd91a59b0ff2fc90ada.json | |
[
"Michael J.K. Bokor"
] | 2016-08-27T18:50:37 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | Folks, if public utterances coming from the NPP stables should be believed, then, they can lead us to only one firm conclusion that the NPP is damn unstable, po | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715289%2Fthe-npp-under-akufo-addo-is-its-own-enemy.html.json | en | null | The NPP under Akufo-Addo is its own enemy | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Folks, if public utterances coming from the NPP stables should be believed, then, they can lead us to only one firm conclusion that the NPP is damn unstable, porous, paranoid, and useless because of its own inherent weaknesses, not because of any outsider’s negative influence to tear it apart. We raise some of those utterances from two angles to support our conclusion.
The NPP’s Acting General Secretary (John Boadu) is reported to have accused the NDC of infiltrating the ranks of the NPP to cause confusion. According to him, “…many of the chaos that happened in the party early last year were sponsored by the government. Speaking to the issue on Joy FM’s Top Story programme Thursday, Mr. Boadu warned of possible "bloodbath" if the government continuously uses the national security personnel to foment trouble within the NPP. Mr. Boadu said the glee with which the President talks about the NPP on his campaign trails is evident enough that he had a hand in what happened in the NPP. (See http://www.myjoyonline.com/politics/2016/August-25th/npp-blames-ndc-for-sponsoring-fueling-confusion-in-the-party.php). The New Patriotic Party has blamed the regular wrangling within its ranks on "elements" in the National Security apparatus. According to the party, President John Mahama has deliberately increased funding to the state security agency in order to enable them sponsor confusion within the Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition. (See http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Mahama-funding-National-Security-to-divide-us-NPP-465133).
MY COMMENTS
National Security being resourced to cause confusion in the NPP? What kind of senseless accusation is that? How inconceivable? How do these NPP people think at all about what political power entails? Do they even know the political inclinations of members of National Security? If they care, they should do their own background checks to know that not everyone recruited into National Security sings the praises of the government of the day. Is it in the Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Prison Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armed Forces, or the Bureau of National Investigation, or other analogous security-oriented institutions? Personnel in those institutions have their political inclinations and act the way they want to at election time. No one is a robot there to be manipulated. Those of us who know what we know will always caution the NPP people to stop their campaign of stupidity as far as National Security is concerned.
Do they really know what National Security stands for? If they do, they should be the last to make such a stupid allegation. Why should the government spend resources on upgrading National Security only to use it to cause security problems for it to solve? Do these NPP people not know how much goes into supporting National Security (even if the returns aren’t quantifiable as it would be in the case of miners raising revenue for the country?). For their information, National Security provides nothing but SERVICE, which isn’t money, even if that service provides the congenial atmosphere for those doing business to raise revenue for the country. A service is a service, but it must be respected as such.
I can read a deeper meaning into this mad accusation. I suppose that the NPP is pitting itself against the orthodox National Security apparatus in the mistaken hope that it could supplant it with its own band of operatives being mobilized under the auspices of the Invincible (or Invisible) Forces or Bolga Bulldogs and other ill-defined and impulsive blocs of misguided elements being trained to cause mayhem at Election 2016 and thereafter. In that sense, the security threat posed to the country by Akufo-Addo and his NPP can’t be under-estimated. It is a dangerous miscalculation to point out to Akufo-Addo and his gang.
I like what the Coordinator of NDC 2016 Campaign, Kofi Adams, said in reaction, dismissing the NPP claims as baseless and adding that the NPP has kept the police busier than armed robbers have done over the period. And the more the NPP puts pressure on the national security apparatus, the more it undercuts itself. Ghana will survive all their kind of mischief.
The truth must be told that Ghana is well-known for security operations and for being the oasis in the desert of anarchy in the West African sub-region or entire Africa. Ghana is respected for its political stability and open-door policy, not to talk about the far-reaching contributions of its leaders since the establishment of the Fourth republic to support peace-making efforts. Talk about Ghana’s role in ECOMOG in Liberia and Sierra Leone; in the peacekeeping campaign in La Cote D’Ivoire after the Laurent Gbagbo nonsense; in Mali after the al-Qaeda mayhem; and many others.
Within this context, it will be very much unbecoming for any politician seeking political power to abuse the system and introduce what will not work well for the country. If lazy politicians fail to accept their own inadequacies and quickly blame the incumbent for the internal woes of their own political front, especially by shifting that blame to National Security, they will be setting up time-bombs to blow everything apart. Ghana doesn’t need such time-bombs. It needs cool-headed leaders who will mobilize the citizens to take their destinies into their own hands, even as they use the country’s resources to improve living standards. National Security is above narrow political confines.
A paranoid NPP cannot see things as they are, which explains why it is accusing the incumbent for nothing. Let Akufo-Addo and the neophytes leading his campaign learn lessons that our country’s history offers so they don’t go where angels themselves fear to tread. Once they annoy National Security, they can’t have it easy-going. And why should they focus on National Security, anyway?
I must say that of all their accusations, allegations, and whining over the years, this one on the National Security is the weirdest. And to imagine that Boadu didn’t provide any shred of evidence to support his wild allegations? Let Akufo-Addo and his followers be advised. National Security remains National Security, no matter which political party wins the elections. No need to annoy anybody because no one knows the man behind the mask. I wish they will unpack this wise crack to tread cautiously.
Truly, the NPP is being led by narrow-minded people who don’t know what Ghanaian politics entails. Under the late Prof. Adu Boahen and former president Kufuor’s leadership, nothing of the froth coming from today’s NPP stable came to notice. When Adu Boahen lost the elections, he was quick to blame Rawlings for stealing the verdict; but an inner-house analysis of the situation proved to him that he wasn’t well-cut-out to outdo Rawlings. The flight into academic literature that produced the futile and unpatronized _Stolen Verdict_ ended his political career. A successful scholar he might be, but not anybody’s cup of tea in politics. He faded just like that.
Under Kufuor, the NPP entered Election 1996, carrying along with it the needless baggage that Akufo-Addo had wrought after bitterly undermining Kufuor when he lost the bid to lead the party. Rawlings whipped the NPP, and no one did anything in protest. The verdict of the voters was swallowed and the NPP thought it wise to give Kufuor a chance to attempt biting the cake at future elections.
At Election 2000, Kufuor campaign on the basis of whatever his vision was, wrapped around the urgent appeal to Ghanaians to take a critical look at their living standards under the NDC administration and to be informed well enough to cast their votes wisely. They did so, but it didn’t put him in office. Only after negotiating with the minority political parties did Kufuor succeed in the run-off. In all his stunting for votes, Kufuor never threatened any political opponent nor did he undermine the integrity of the orthodox state apparatuses. He presented himself as a trustworthy candidate. He did so at Election 2004 and prevailed. Never did he once condemn his political opponents as Akufo-Addo and his gang have been doing since Election 2008. Kufuor proved that he could win elections on merit, which was why he opposed the move by the Akufo-Addo team to challenge the outcome of Election 2008. He stood aside when the hard-headed Akufo-Addo proceeded to the Supreme Court with the useless petition against the outcome of Election 2012. And he has remained as such.
Isn’t there any useful lesson for Akufo-Addo to learn from precedent? Picking on National Security won’t open door; it will needlessly endanger national life. Meantime, the quest for political power shouldn’t go that way. History teaches us that dictators deploying the national security apparatus to reinforce and strengthen their grips on power end up being snuffed out by those very forces. Human beings have a limited capacity for nuisance. Let’s remember that members of National Security have families whose experiences can differ drastically from their own, especially at Election time. So, why count on them to perpetrate electoral fraud or to perpetuate one’s reign? And who has the skill to know the construction of the National Security operative’s mind on his face?
Akufo-Addo and his followers are really lost. Those like them who seek to win political power for the “Mate Me Ho” camp in contemporary times need to rise above the nuisance around which Akufo-Addo has wrapped his electioneering campaign stunts. Indeed, if there is any message of hope for Ghanaians, it should be given in the open and all orthodox state apparatuses allowed to do their work withou9t being threatened as is happening now.
Folks, there is a lot more to say, but6 I will end it here with a pin-pointed advice to Akufo-Addo and his gang that as human beings, we have only one life to live; and we can do so if we know how to secure that life. Shouting “Halleluia… Halleluia” all over the place won’t make us saints or secure our lives against anything untoward coming from the toes on which we have stepped in the attempt to realize our personal ambitions. A loaded message to be unpacked by those who can. National Security is National Security!!
An aspiring President who threatens National Security even before assuming office can’t be protected by that establishment. As a boil standing exposed on a man’s bald head, that figure is worse than the bull’s eye. Can these NPP people think right not to sow the wind so they don’t reap the whirlwind? They tried it to give Jerry Rawlings the impetus; when he struck, they bolted, tails between their legs. Is it now that they have adroitly tried to retrace their steps by swallowing back their own vomit that the situation will improve for them?
They have snuggled to Rawlings but they are not yet there. And Ghana has survived all the pressure because of what Rawlings put in place by way of National Security. If the NPP people doubt it, they should ask Capt. Koda what made him develop diarrhoea when he was picked up by the BNI in connection with the three South African mercenaries. And he has been very quiet ever since. In truth, man always passes man. Let Akufo-Addo and his gang of malfunctioning political novices be prepared for more. They should be prepared to dance to the tune that they call. No more, no less for now.
Let Akufo-Addo and his gang of malfunctioning political novices be prepared for more. They should be prepared to dance to the tune that they call. No more, no less for now. But the fundamental nettle is: If an outside force such as the NDC can penetrate the NPP camp now in the home turf in Ghanaian politics, what is the guarantee that a future NPP government cannot be penetrated by other outsiders who will definitely see the loopholes to use against Ghana's interests?
And is Akufo-Addo willing to tell Ghanaians how the Italian financiers of his campaign for Election 2008 who were arrested by the Ghana Police and paraded at the National Police Headquarters got out of the web because of what the late Jake Obetsebi Lamptey and Co. did by harping on mere sentiments instead of reasons related to National Security? Who is financing the NPP under Akufo-Addo to warrant the impudence that motivates their kind of campaign for Election 2016?
Folks, we have the facts to expose their mischief. Let them take us on, and we will match them boot-to-boot, mouth-to mouth.
I shall return…
E-mail: [email protected]
Join me on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/mjkbokor to continue the conversation.
By Dr. Michael J.K. Bokor | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715289/the-npp-under-akufo-addo-is-its-own-enemy.html | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/2993cde278e19d453260f8a422d6454bdda66718bbe68cf099c377b07321f9e9.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T06:51:16 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Newcastle United will step up their chase for Ghana ace Christian Atsu today ahead of the shutting of the transfer window. Atsu, who plays for Chelsea | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715485%2Fnewcastle-to-press-for-atsu-deal-from-chelsea-before-transfe.html.json | en | null | Newcastle to press for Atsu deal from Chelsea before transfer window shuts | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Newcastle United will step up their chase for Ghana ace Christian Atsu today ahead of the shutting of the transfer window.
Atsu, who plays for Chelsea, is interesting the Magpies following his excellent showing for Ghana.
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez is keen to add a wide player to his Championship squad and the Ghanaian fits the bill.
Insiders say Newcastle have already discussed a loan move for the winger Atsu with his bosses at Stamford Bridge.
Atsu has not made a single appearance for Chelsea since signing in 2013, and has spent the last three seasons on loan at the likes of Everton, Vitesse and Malaga.
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715485/newcastle-to-press-for-atsu-deal-from-chelsea-before-transfe.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/447dd0dbf5779fe7e06e1db6c820cadf21c92f6a397c1a54c8947a2a1af5e731.json | |
[] | 2016-08-29T06:51:11 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Supply of potable water in the Central Region is expected to hit 78 per cent average by December 2016, Dr Kwaku Agyemang-Mensah, the Minister of Water Resources | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F715482%2Fcentral-region-nears-78-potable-water-coverage-govt.html.json | en | null | Central Region nears 78% potable water coverage Govt | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Supply of potable water in the Central Region is expected to hit 78 per cent average by December 2016, Dr Kwaku Agyemang-Mensah, the Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing has said.
The Abrem Agona Water Project in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) Municipality, when completed, would solve the perennial water shortage faced by residents in some parts of the region.
The current regional water coverage stands at 68 per cent.
The Minister made this known when he paid a working visit to the Brimsu Water Dam and the Abrem Agona Water Project currently under construction to assess progress of work on the project.
The project, which is expected to benefit more than 400,000 people in the Cape Coast Metropolis and its surrounding communities, would primarily inter-connect the two water systems at Sekyere Hemang and Brimsu.
About 3.1 million gallons of treated water from Sekyere Hemang would be supplied to the two water wells at Abrem Agona and subsequently made available to areas with supply from the Brimsu head works.
Works on the water supply project, which is being undertaken with support from the Netherlands Government under its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme, was likely be completed ahead of schedule in December.
Interacting with the media after his visit, Dr Agyemang-Mensah said water supply for the Cape Coast Metropolis and the neighbouring KEEA Municipality improved after completion of the 6.6 million gallons daily capacity water treatment plant at Sekyere Hemang.
He, however, said during the dry season when the level of water in the Brimsu Dam was low, Cape Coast and its neighbouring communities experienced acute water shortage.
He said the Government was committed to investing in water infrastructure to ensure access to potable water for all Ghanaians by 2025 through some interventions put in place.
Dr Agyemang-Mensah also visited the Kwamoano/Amarkrom and Nyinabontoa water supply system, a sustainable rural water and sanitation project, which was commissioned last year with a nine-member management team.
Aside the water supply system, government has also constructed 18 boreholes in 18 communities in the Hemang Lower Denkyira District in a bid to address the water problems there.
– | http://www.modernghana.com/news/715482/central-region-nears-78-potable-water-coverage-govt.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/773d2e13805a4ae994be784edc9c376293f0afc428d94bedcee7e1b92b7ad3db.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:52:08 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | Asante Kotoko are in advanced talks with Belgium giants RSC Anderlecht for a possible transfer of striker Dauda Mohammed, GHANASoccernet.com can exclusively | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F716022%2Fexclusive-asante-kotoko-in-advanced-talks-with-anderlecht.html.json | en | null | EXCLUSIVE: Asante Kotoko in 'advanced' talks with Anderlecht over Dauda Mohammed transfer | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Asante Kotoko are in advanced talks with Belgium giants RSC Anderlecht for a possible transfer of striker Dauda Mohammed, GHANASoccernet.com can exclusively report.
The Porcupine Warriors are very close to agreeing an amount in a region of 450,000 Euros.
The Ghana U20 star will join the Belgian champions after the season if talks are concluded.
Mohammed is Asante Kotoko's top scorer with eight goals in the Ghana Premier League this season.
He has earned an invitation to replace injured Ebenezer Assifuah in Ghana's squad to face Rwanda on Saturday in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations final qualifier.
By Nuhu Adams
For more Ghana football news visit www.ghanasoccernet.com | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/716022/exclusive-asante-kotoko-in-advanced-talks-with-anderlecht.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/c9948d7c6dc59897ead00122722bb29d19d3da3a3b3e12e00ad9551fb1caca9b.json | |
[
"Nana Yaw Wiredu"
] | 2016-08-29T14:52:09 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Emma, who pulled out of the Mtn Hit Maker competition had to fly back to the UK to seek medical attention due to ill health. She was the crowd 39;s favorite | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38551%2Fmtn-hit-maker-sensation-emmanuela-is-set-to-release-her-deb.html.json | en | null | MTN Hit Maker Sensation, Emmanuela Is Set To Release Her Debut Single "ADONAI" | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Emma, who pulled out of the Mtn Hit Maker competition had to fly back to the UK to seek medical attention due to ill health. She was the crowd's favorite, winning Golden moments in the competition twice with her smoth soothing voice and was heavily tipped to win the competition by patrons.
According to Emma, her God-father Dr Abbeam Ampomah Danso who co-writes and produces most of her songs introduced her to the Mtn hits maker competition.
Emma said she saw it as a chance to learn more about the cultural values of Ghana, since she had been away from home for quite some time now." According to her, the experience gained from the competition is one, which will help her immensely,
"I love Ghana and Ghanaian music. I love every genre, from hiplife to hi life, but my preferred choice would fit right into the gospel family and with the support I have enjoyed over the last few weeks, I would say is overwhelming.
I promised my fans I was going to compensate them for pulling out of the competition with a beautiful song and staying true to my word my debut single 'intimacy with Christ' is out".
A song written by Dr Abbeam Ampomah Danso and Emmanuela , this song talks about how passionate they both are about Christianity. it's a beautiful urban gospel track which is sure to touch base with Christian youth.
Emma has countless hits written and recorded but waiting for the right time to release them.
I am sure the gospel fraternity will embrace Emma's style and appeal signed onto Abbeam music production,
Emma is sure to go far with her music career, follow the link below for her song. | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38551/mtn-hit-maker-sensation-emmanuela-is-set-to-release-her-deb.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/cab9a16ffc63b41ee88a68c45d80b2c4e33c892df8a1828695bc0ede0d6f0653.json | |
[
"Sammy Heywood Okine"
] | 2016-08-29T18:51:51 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | Ambassadors for the 2016 millennium Marathon have been out doored at an impressive ceremony held at the premises of the Millennium Marathon Sports Company (M | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fsports%2F715718%2Fmillennium-marathon-ambassadors-outdoored.html.json | en | null | Millennium Marathon Ambassadors Outdoored | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Ambassadors for the 2016 millennium Marathon have been out doored at an impressive ceremony held at the premises of the Millennium Marathon Sports Company (MMSC) at Nima in Accra.
Led by Claudia Turbay, Colombian Ambassador to Ghana, the others are Ambassadors from Japan, South Africa, Burkina Faso and Mexico designated to Ghana.
Popular media personality Naa Ashorkor of Starr FM and GH One TV is one of the Ambassadors.
Addressing the media at the out dooring, Naa Ashorkor urged families and friends to join the race dubbed “Africa on the Run” to create the awareness of living together in peace and unity.
The Colombian Ambassador Claudia Turbay gave a back ground and the history of the marathon. She commended the organisers for coming up with the second edition as a national of Colombia did well to place third in the first edition, and hinted that two athletes from her country will run again.
She noted that “Africa on the Run” is a vision to promote peace and unity as well as opportunity for African development.
Carthy Morton of the MMSC said the enthusiasm for the event has risen in the last few days as many people are registering at the various centers in the Malls and Accra Sports Stadium, where on Wednesday some of the international athletes will be shown to the general public.
Some sponsor’s representatives spoke at the function advising companies to allow their workers have keep fit exercises often to keep them in shape and practice healthy lifestyle.
Benn Kujar of Lymin Creek promised to run and invited other corporate heads and associates to try the 5 kilometer race.
14064065 10154271919265700 6770945725377054330 N | http://www.modernghana.com/sports/715718/millennium-marathon-ambassadors-outdoored.html | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/7f7fd84d139f84f25f452f8590bc8e79c24c204fa0cb5ca9b05c80a657befcec.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T20:52:30 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | A Deputy Tourism Minister under the erstwhile Kufuor administration has said it cannot be the case that the Kufuor administration committed Ghana to a foreign a | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fnews%2F716056%2Fkufuors-man-dares-critics-to-go-to-court-over-kempinski-dea.html.json | en | null | Kufuor's man dares critics to go to court over Kempinski deal | null | null | www.modernghana.com | A Deputy Tourism Minister under the erstwhile Kufuor administration has said it cannot be the case that the Kufuor administration committed Ghana to a foreign agreement without Parliamentary approval.
Kofi Osei Ameyaw told Joy News' Dzifa Bampoh there was no breach of the law in the agreement that gave birth to what is now the Kempinski hotel.
Joy News' investigative journalist Kwetey Nartey has intercepted a document from a Panamanian law firm Mossack Fonseca which revealed the Kufuor government may have breached procedures in bringing to Ghana Cascade Development Company and its affiliates, the firm that constructed the Kempinski Hotel.
The leaked files indicate that suspended chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) Paul Afoko received over half a million US dollars for fronting for the offshore company.
Documents seen by Joy News also show that on 15 February 2006, the government of Ghana signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the foreign company for the development of a three hundred thousand square meter Accra Race Course site.
The Kufuor government reached an agreement with Cascade Development Company and its affiliates, the firm that constructed the Kempinski Hotel, to develop the site into a housing complex. The plan included a five-star hotel, office and residential buildings and a shopping mall.
The information also revealed the Kufuor government gave tax rebates to the company in order for them to set up, something critics have suggested was improper.
But in a reaction Mr Osei Ameyaw who was Deputy Tourism Minister at the time and who worked on the deal said nothing untoward happened and challenged persons who believe Parliament or the Kufuor government did something wrong to take the matter up in court.
He also argued that the erstwhile Kufuor government did not breach the law in giving tax rebates to the company.
"I am not privy to an MOU and I don't know when an MOU became an agreement."
"...We cannot be on air trying to debate the propriety or impropriety of Parliament's work. If one believes one believes that Parliament acted ultra vares or gone beyond its powers in the approval of Kempinski hotel agreement then the person has the right as a citizen to take the matter up.
"In my understanding, I am very clear that there has not been any breach of the law, either by Parliament or by anybody," he stated.
He said even if the agreement was signed before Parliament approved it, there are agreements signed as a condition subsequent, which means that agreement can only be said to be effective if it is subsequently approved by Parliament.
He dismissed assertions the tax rebates given to the company were improper.
"If you are suggesting that in one way or the other there has been impropriety, you have the right to take the matter up with the Judiciary.
He said tax rebates are a loss to the country only if the country does not approve of it. But if the country permits it doesn't become a loss.
The Vice Chair of the Constitution and Legal Committee of Parliament George Loh, said the story "does not come to him as a story."
He told Joy News ideally the agreement comes to Parliament for approval first before any contract is firmed up. However in the Kempiski case the contrary happened.
He said even though the agreement was not brought to Parliament in the beginning, eventually it came for approval.
Story by Ghana|Myjoyonline.com|Nathan Gadugah | http://www.modernghana.com/news/716056/kufuors-man-dares-critics-to-go-to-court-over-kempinski-dea.html | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/2ca0aabf85d049dbd6b0d1900a2900c5c99d5988dccac36c42b81c04340845db.json | |
[
"Yinka Awoyemi"
] | 2016-08-28T16:50:58 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | Off Anny 39;s sophomore 3rd studio album quot;Journey2Self quot; comes this soulful, lifting and divine tone quot;Jesus quot; produced by Mayo. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modernghana.com%2Fmusic%2F38527%2Fnew-music-annyjesus-prod-by-mayo.html.json | en | null | AnnyJesus (Prod. By Mayo) | null | null | www.modernghana.com | Off Anny's sophomore 3rd studio album "Journey2Self" comes this soulful, lifting and divine tone "Jesus" produced by Mayo.
Having mesmerised her fans and took the Gospel music industry to a scintillating launch of her 3rd studio album "Journey2Self" in July 2016, sensational Gospel/Inspiration queen, Anny has decided to release JESUS, one of the powerful songs on the fast selling album as a the album's 4th official single.
The name of JESUS is no doubt a strong tower, the righteous runs into it and they were saved! This song is uniquely dedicated to you and as you fellowship with JESUS in faith, everything the enemy has placed next to you falls and no longer occupy your space in Jesus name. Amen
@anny_sings
DIRECT DOWNLOAD LINK:
http://bit.ly/JesusByAnny
INSTAGRAM LINK:
bit.ly/JesusByAnny | http://www.modernghana.com/music/38527/new-music-annyjesus-prod-by-mayo.html | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.modernghana.com/66f41c8a74714ac06a70a31c25c34dad41a549f0855613f62af1e0ea3857932a.json | |
[
"Ben Lypka"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:34 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F390710541.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/63850abbotsford160819-ABB-softballgirls.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Abbotsford trio wins national softball gold | null | null | www.abbynews.com | (left to right) Hannah Boulanger, Chelsea Hotner and Noelle Johnson celebrate their gold medal win.
A trio of Abbotsford softball players left Prince Edward Island with some national gold.
Abbotsford residents Hannah Boulanger, Chelsea Hotner and Noelle Johnson took home the top prize as part of the White Rock Renegades at the 2016 U18 Canadian Women's Softball Champions.
The event, which ran from Aug. 8 to Aug. 14 in Charlottetown, saw the Renegades defeat another B.C. team 3-2 on Aug. 14 in the final to clinch the title.
A club from Manitoba earned bronze at the event.
The event saw 21 of the best U18 teams in the country battle it out for the gold.
The Renegades went a perfect three wins and zero losses at the event, also posting victories over BC (2-1) and Manitoba (6-2) on Aug. 13.
Johnson and Hotner both graduated this summer from Abbotsford's Yale Secondary, while Boulanger has one more year at Yale.
Johnson and Hotner are also both graduates of the Yale Girls Softball Academy, and Hotner is moving on with a softball scholarship to Simon Fraser University in the fall to attend classes as well as compete for the women's softball team.
Johnson will be attending Trinity Western University enrolled in the kinesiology program.
Boulanger has one more year in the academy.
For more details on the tournament, visit championship.softball.ca. | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/390710541.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/85bcd0d741b05828abd1f7e407aabb8b3db55066103fe51e9ce05f9ef2b6806b.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-30T00:51:22 | null | null | Centenarian Mana Kaur, who started running at age 93, crosses 100-metre finish line in Americas Masters Games | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F391670691.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/57664BCLN2007s_MISC-Old-Runner20160829T1945.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | VIDEO: 100-year-old woman from India runs 100-metre at masters games in Vancouver | null | null | www.abbynews.com | VANCOUVER – It took 100-year-old Indian runner Man Kaur almost a minute and a half to complete the 100-metre race, but she never broke her stride.
And when she finally crossed the finish line at the Americas Masters Games in Vancouver, her competitors – many of them two decades younger – were there to cheer her on.
Her son and fellow athletes say Kaur's energy and drive to compete has become an inspiration to participants in the unique international event for athletes over 30.
Kaur began running at age 93 at the suggestion of her son, 78-year-old Gurdev Singh, who also competes in the Masters Games and says he knew she could become a star in her age category.
She has won more than 20 medals, including snatching three golds this week as she is the only competitor in the category for women over 100.
If you're wondering whether she holds the elusive secret to a long life, Kaur says unfortunately it's what you might expect – a good diet and lots of exercise.
The Canadian Press | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/391670691.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/3d168375910ae809343a5670da90e85f2965c640e92d43ff70faaefb3df79834.json |
[
"Kelvin"
] | 2016-08-27T16:49:45 | null | null | Two locals want to make it easier to find Pokestops and gyms | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391335161.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/65590abbotsfordPokemonGoMap.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Abbotsford gets its very own Pokemon Go map | null | null | www.abbynews.com | They say necessity is the mother of invention and the idiom proved true when two local men needed a better way to find Pokemon Go Pokestops and gyms in Abbotsford.
That's when they decided to create the Abbotsford Pokemon Go Map – a website with a Google Map overlaid with the important locations for Pokemon Go players.
Dylan Riel and Stephen Jones, like millions of people worldwide, have been playing the augmented reality smartphone game since its Canadian release in June.
Riel, a 32-year-old federal government employee, said the game is highly popular in Abbotsford, with many players found in hot spots such as the University of the Fraser Valley campus, Mill Lake Park and downtown. In order to catch the animated creatures around town and then pit them against an opponent's Pokemon, one must find both Pokestops and Pokemon Gyms – real-world locations one can find on the in-game map.
"The in-game radar is somewhat limited and doesn't really cover a large area when you are playing," said Riel, in an email. "If your intent is to try and battle other players at gyms or stock up on items from the Pokestops, this map will definitely help..."
Riel said both stops and gyms are quite spread out in Abbotsford, which can make it tough to accomplish a lot if a player has limited time to play. The two men spent a couple weekends driving all over Abbotsford, compiling a list of every stop and gym they could find.
Riel and Jones, longtime friends, both work full-time and have families but their childhood memories of Pokemon is what drew them to Pokemon Go.
"It is like a childhood fantasy to be able to go out in the real world and catch Pokemon all over town," said Riel. "It is a great way to get active and we've met a lot of friendly people playing the game. We've both reconnected with friends we hadn't seen in years because we were out playing Pokemon and bumped into these old friends also playing Pokemon."
Riel said he will play while going for a short walk or can plan an entire afternoon around catching and battling the creatures.
And now Riel has passed on his passion to the next generation of Pokemon trainer.
"I introduced my son Mason to the game and he's become hooked himself: watching the classic cartoons from the '90s [and] drawing pictures of Pokemon – he even has his own account that he uses as well." | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391335161.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/231eebb0019ff485096fee2af5912db2d187449e7f0f0ee7011b38bcd8fbe1ac.json |
[
"Sports Reporter"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:15 | null | null | Women's basketball team drops pair of games to visiting NCAA teams | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F390611911.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/19872abbotsford160817-ABB-cascades.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | UFV Cascades fall to American foes | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Cascades point guard Kate Head looks to thread a pass into the post to Taylor Claggett during Friday’s exhibition tilt with Florida Atlantic.
The UFV Cascades women’s basketball team tested themselves early for the 2016-17 season, welcoming the Wisconsin Badgers on Aug. 10 and the Florida Atlantic Owls on Aug. 12.
UFV played the Badgers hard on Wednesday, and had a 34-32 lead mid-way through the third quarter, but Wisconsin turned it on with about four minutes to go.
The Badgers went on a 9-0 run after falling behind and extended their lead in the fourth to win 64-50.
Reigning Canada West scoring champ Kayli Sartori paced the Cascades with 14 points to go with six rebounds and four steals, while sophomore forward Taylor Claggett notched a double-double (12 points, 11 rebounds) and Shayna Litman chipped in with 13 points.
“We talked about wanting to establish our competitiveness in our first game, and I thought the girls really competed hard,” Cascades head coach Al Tuchscherer said. “We battled a much bigger team, and we actually beat them on the boards (50-47), which was a really key stat for us."
Friday’s game saw Florida Atlantic shoot the lights out from beyond the arc to post a 90-77 win.
The Owls, an NCAA Div. 1 program knocked down 15 of 34 attempts (44.1 per cent) from long distance.
Florida Atlantic nullified a phenomenal all-around performance from Sartori, who poured in a game-high 23 points to go with eight assists, six rebounds and three steals.
“It was a great week, especially for our young kids to see some quality opponents who play different styles,” Tuchscherer said. “When we’re in Canada West play from week to week, one week you’ll play a big team and the next week it’s a team that can really shoot the ball and execute. It’s good for us to see that right now.”
For more on the team, visit ufvcascades.ca. | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/390611911.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/bfc688e5d693dd07c00b09d83cfea2ad722985ff0c07970665256193ea29bdb5.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-29T16:50:23 | null | null | Highway 1 was closed in both directions Monday morning after a semi trailer truck carrying liquid natural gas rolled over near Bridal Falls. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391615731.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LNG crash closes Hwy 1 at Bridal Falls | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Highway 1 was closed in both directions Monday morning after a semi trailer truck carrying liquid natural gas rolled over near Bridal Falls.
Fire officials say the truck is leaking diesel and LNG and have called in the hazardous materials team.
They are keeping vehicles back 300 metres from the scene and evacuated businesses in the Bridal Falls Recreation area as they assess the situation.
Eastbound traffic is being diverted to Highway 9 and Highway 7.
DriveBC currently has no estimate of when the highway will reopen.
Watch theprogress.com for more… | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391615731.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/3c15adc3a6a73de6be983ae5a6a6c3445b1f16314e6b32cde33d969070ea0470.json |
[
"Tyler Olsen"
] | 2016-08-30T22:50:40 | null | null | Investigation found officer lied to get a new jacket and then cut a colleague’s coat to cover up deceit. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391787131.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/9028abbotsfordPolicecar2.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | 'Dismissal' for Abbotsford Police officer who cut colleague's jacket to hide lies | null | null | www.abbynews.com | An Abbotsford Police officer lost his or her job last year after lying to try to receive a new jacket and then damaging a colleague’s coat in an effort to conceal the misconduct.
The officer was one of five in Abbotsford disciplined for misconduct over the past year, according to the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC), which released its 2015/16 annual report this week.
The incidents were among more than 1,000 investigations across British Columbia conducted or monitored by the OPCC, which oversees municipal police departments, but not the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
According to the report, an APD officer facing dismissal resigned earlier this year following a disciplinary investigation into attempts to obtain new department-issued rain and winter jackets.
The investigation found the officer had reported that his/her rain jacket had been damaged when that was not the case. When asked to produce the jacket, the officer took another officer’s jacket from the locker room and then cut the coat “in an effort to conceal his/her actions.” The officer also reported that a winter jacket had been lost in order to receive a new one. When questioned by internal investigators during two interviews, the officer lied, the OPCC report says.
Together, the actions amounted to five incidents of misconduct, including deceit, discreditable conduct, and damage to police property, each of which warranted dismissal, according to a discipline authority.
Two other incidents resulted in discipline administered between April 2015 and March 2016.
Last spring, a police officer accessed a database “for purposes unrelated to his/her duties.” That warranted a written reprimand.
The officer then failed to obey a “cease contact order” issued by the chief constable. That resulted in a 12-day suspension, along with a demotion that resulted in the removal of the officer’s “senior” rank.
The third incident occurred in November of 2013, when three police officers and the jail supervisor, who is not an APD officer, “failed to properly document the authorization and strip search” of three people, one of whom complained. A finding of “neglect of duty” was recorded, with the members and jail supervisor issued “advice to future conduct.”
The OPCC also made two separate recommendations for the Abbotsford Police Boards. The APD has subsequently updated its policies regarding the disposal of property, along with members’ use of PRIME, a police database.
In total, the OPCC opened 81 files related to the Abbotsford Police Department. That number was the fifth highest among the 14 departments overseen by the organization. The Vancouver Police Department had the most files opened, with 600.
Of Abbotsford’s 81 files, 29 were deemed “inadmissible,” a designation given for a range of reasons, including being frivolous. Most of the remainder were being “monitored.” The 81 files opened was the lowest of the previous five years, and is in contrast to provincial numbers that saw an increase in opened files.
APD Const. Ian MacDonald said the report, while it may shine a light on police misconduct, is important to show complaints are taken seriously and investigated.
“We hold ourselves to a higher standard, and so does the public,” he said. “Unfortunately, not everyone is going to meet it.”
He said police officers are human beings asked to do a difficult job and aren’t infallible.
The result of some of those mistakes, he noted, is an opportunity for officers, and sometimes the department as a whole, to learn and improve – as in the case of the accessing of police databases. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391787131.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/0a1252ebd7ec7754f57362caba977cc765fa58e70aca790e322f963480a74d8d.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:01:47 | null | null | Fans offered a chance to win two tickets to every show at the venue this fall | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390208181.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/56791abbotsfordAbbotsfordCentre.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Abbotsford Centre holds Summer Rocks Backstage Pass Contest | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The Abbotsford Centre has announced a new contest, coined the Abbotsford Centre Summer Rocks Backstage Pass Contest.
The sweepstakes offers fans a chance to win two tickets to every show at the Abbotsford Centre this fall: Five Finger Death Punch and Papa Roach, Blink 182, Monster Energy PBR, Kenny Rogers Final World Tour, Our Lady Peace and I Mother Earth, John Fogerty, Slayer and Anthrax, Mamma Mia, Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant, and Celtic Thunder.
The contest began today (Aug. 15) and invites fans to enter online at the Abbotsford Centre’s Facebook page (facebook.com/abbotsfordcentre).
“It’s been a phenomenal year to date, and we want to keep the momentum moving forward,” said Andrew Nash, Abbotsford Centre general manager.
The sweepstakes also offers patrons a chance to opt into the Abbotsford Centre Backstage Pass, an email database used by the AC to inform patrons about exclusive pre-sale offers, as well as provide information on upcoming concerts and events.
The contest runs until 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 2. Fans will be allowed to enter the sweepstakes once, with the opportunity for one bonus entry per share on public social media posts. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/390208181.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/ae88357b98ecc13e517981b7253e3418a917974c4fe26742907e0ff7c2bc792c.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-26T18:49:47 | null | null | Animals have been seen eating fruit ripening on trees in the Sumas Mountain and Auguston areas in recent days. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391421501.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/8666abbotsfordbear_cropped.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Bear sightings rise in Abbotsford | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The City of Abbotsford is reminding residents to do what they can to keep bears out of residential areas after several sightings over the last few days.
The city says bear sightings have been on the rise recently in the Sumas Mountain and Auguston areas. The bears seem particularly interested in fruit ripening in trees.
To reduce the risk of conflict, residents are urged to remove temptations from bears by storing garbage in a secure place until collection day, picking fruit from trees and bushes and allowing it to ripen indoors, and emptying birdfeeders.
Other tips can be found at www.wildsafebc.com/black-bear.
Anyone observing bears or other dangerous wildlife in an urban area should call the Conservation Officer Service's 24-hour toll-free line at 1-877-952-7277.
Reportable incidents include bears accessing garbage, instances where wildlife cannot be easily scared off, and dangerous wildlife in areas like parks or schoolgrounds during daylight areas. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391421501.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/118e7e176227b9824b3d47f86ac10510181a6177bafd780ce9b38df6b9573906.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:09:50 | null | null | Flowering shrub adds a bright burst of colour to the garden | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Flifestyles%2F387949332.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/19462abbotsfordMinterhydrangeas.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | COLUMN: Hydrangeas are stealing the show this summer | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Gardening by Brian Minter
Our gardens are now going through their cycle of summer colour, but a certain flowering shrub is stealing the show. Hydrangeas, next to roses, are perhaps the most popular deciduous flowering shrub in West Coast gardens.
The “macrophylla” – “garden hydrangea” – was introduced to England in 1736, and since then a great many series of exciting new varieties have been developed for the home garden.
When folks ask me to recommend a good vine for a shady north wall, my first choice is the climbing hydrangea, “anomala petiolaris.”
This deciduous, fast-growing vine has four-inch-long glossy dark heart-shaped leaves. Its aerial rootlets cling to virtually anything standing still, and the plant itself will stretch to 20 feet or more, if left untrimmed.
Its foliage appears quite early in the spring and lasts well into the autumn. In my opinion, it almost qualifies as an evergreen vine.
The real feature of this attractive vine, however, is its large, flat white flower clusters that grow to six inches across and resemble the lace-cap varieties. This hydrangea is hardy to -25°C, which is surprising because of its lush appearance.
A winner in any garden, it will tolerate some sun, but the foliage is far richer in a more shaded location.
The flowering hydrangeas you see in summer gardens are most likely the heat-loving P.G. varieties (P.G. is short for “paniculata Grandiflora”). You've probably seen some in tree forms as many have been grafted that way. I
t is quite easy to select one strong branch and train it into a tree form. Believe it or not, this hydrangea is prairie-hardy, tolerating temperatures of -35°C. Given time, the plant can become almost a tree, stretching up to 12 feet in height, but most folks like to keep them trimmed back to around six feet to conform to most garden situations.
Its massive, pendulous cone-shaped flowers appear in mid-July and often last until late September when they take on a pinkish hue. The foliage of this fine garden plant also turns a rich bronze in fall, so it is a colourful accent in an autumn garden.
“Little Lime,” one of the new shorter varieties, turns cream then multi-coloured. I love it for those sunny locations where a more compact plant is needed.
The most compact of all are H.p. “Bombshell” and “Bobo,” growing only three feet high and wide and blooming from July through to frost with stunning pure-white blooms.
“Little Quick Fire” is another new variety that comes out white, then immediately turns a deep pink and holds that beautiful colour to the very end.
The show stealer, however, has to be H.p. “Vanilla Strawberry” with its stunning white flowers that are almost immediately infused with red, creating a “wow” sensation in any garden.
“Lace Cap” hydrangeas have certainly drawn the most interest during the past few years. They are called “Lace Cap” because a cluster of sterile flowers in the centre is surrounded by large florets of traditional hydrangea blossoms.
The effect is really quite charming, and in shady locations they seem to outlast the “macrophylla” or common varieties.
Like the big-leafed hydrangeas, however, the blossoms will turn a beautiful sea-blue in acid soils and pink or reddish-purple in chalk soils.
Remember, you can change their colour by adding lime to keep them pink or aluminium sulphate to make them blue. There are now white “Lace Cap” varieties that look classy and elegant in any setting, and they do not change colour. Take a look at all the new varieties now available – they will amaze you.
One of the lesser-known hydrangea varieties is the “quercifolia” or “oak-leafed” hydrangea. This handsome shrub has rather large leathery leaves resembling oak leaves, and it grows to about six feet high.
This is a great plant for heavily shaded areas because its creamy white flowers, which appear in June, brighten up those dull spots, and its foliage, which turns a bright scarlet-crimson in fall, is really outstanding.
Unfortunately, this oak-leafed variety is often quite hard to locate in nurseries.
For small-space gardens, there are now several true dwarf varieties that stay within the three-foot range. Pia, Winning Edge and Pink Elf are some of the cutest little garden gnomes you've ever seen!
The truly big news is the first ever “macrophylla” type that blooms on new wood. For those buds that get frozen out in a bad winter, and for those of us who prune our hydrangea to the ground each spring and get no blooms, “Endless Summer” is the answer because, amazingly, it blooms beautifully on new growth.
The new double varieties from Proven Winners and Ball Ornamentals are really quite something as well, offering an entirely new look. They, too, can be blue or pink depending upon the pH level of the soil.
They are in bloom now, so take a look at these beauties. Two of the most unique, Green Star and Pistachio, are unusual blends of lime and pink that continually change.
Perhaps the most revolutionary hydrangeas now creating a sensation are nine varieties belonging to the “Everlasting” series. These compact (three to four feet) plants are repeat and continuous flowering. What I really love about them is that the older blooms, instead of deteriorating, become infused with green, adding a whole new element to this stunning series.
Most hydrangeas are very versatile, but they prefer moist soil and bloom far longer with some shelter from the intense afternoon sun. They are great garden plants, and two or three varieties in a garden will be a welcome addition. | http://www.abbynews.com/lifestyles/387949332.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/3bb74f277f0a7e420ec397c23205ddce8ec1b597dd4a4b5bb5cdd79aede12128.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:14:04 | null | null | When did it become OK to speed every day? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F389087921.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Drivers need to follow road rules | null | null | www.abbynews.com | I enjoy living in Abbotsford. It truly is the City in the Country. Close to lakes, hiking trails and even beaches, border crossings and more, Abbotsford is the very best location to settle and raise a family.
As a person who volunteers for the city, teaches to others, builds careers, works with the public every day, there is a negative trend I believe to see happening. And I would like to simply ask a few questions and address the public.
When did it become OK to speed every day? Driving behind another car, what do we expect from the person in front of us when we tailgate? Isn’t it their insurance premium that we ask them to risk? Their driver’s licence we expect them to put on the table? Isn’t it their car and their life we think they should not care about, just so we can drive faster ourselves?
When did it become OK to cross a double solid line and pass a car, clearly speeding? When did it become OK to not stop at a stop sign and roll over those railway tracks without looking, because we “know better”? Are we really in such a hurry?
As we teach our children, young family members, and preach what is right and what is wrong, why are we not living it? What good is it if we teach manners and tell our kids how to do things in life, when we never show them, never do it ourselves?
If we ask Canada for support and to create laws, so we can all have a better, safer and easier life, what value do those very same laws have if we break them every day? The very same rules we asked for to feel good, safe and protected we now don’t care for.
It is on us to teach, guide and lead our children by setting examples every day, not just talk about them, so future generations can enjoy the same beautiful Abbotsford tomorrow.
Helmut Straner, Abbotsford | http://www.abbynews.com/opinion/letters/389087921.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/9e36cc268126979049fe9bf4d201dbe8475ee5b03688879c08106e7680e278d2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:59:25 | null | null | Prospera Credit Union holds its annual outdoor family film night at Rotary Stadium in Abbotsford | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F389759031.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/24018abbotsfordProsperaCinemaUInderthjeStars-1-MORROW.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | PHOTO: Cinema Under the Stars | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Prospera Credit Union held its annual Cinema Under the Stars event on Saturday evening at Rotary Stadium. This group poses with the Frisbees that were handed out. Before the film The Jungle Book was shown, kids' activities also included face painting and a bouncy castle. Proceeds from the event went to Success by 6. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/389759031.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/6b13183f0507a89c266b84e4f7dace6e90f23b34ac03540ff938f9d13aef7cf2.json |
[
"Ben Lypka"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:21 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F390722441.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68598abbotsfordexpark.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Women’s Western Canadian tourney comes to Abbotsford | null | null | www.abbynews.com | It's time to play ball at the Senior Women's Western Canadian championships in Abbotsford.
The event kicked off on Thursday at Exhibition Park, and runs till Sunday, with a total of seven teams battling it out for the title.
Teams participating at the event include: the Victoria Aces (BC), Calgary Red Sox (Alberta), Carnduff Southeast Steelers (Saskatachewan), Delta Sunfire (BC), Strathmore Magic (Alberta), Saskatoon Synergy (Saskatchewan) and the Strawberry Vale SVEE (BC).
Each team plays six games in the round robin, with games running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today (Friday), and from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday.
The top four clubs advance to the semi-final games on Saturday at 4 p.m., with the finals occurring on Sunday at 1 p.m.
All games are free for spectators to attend. Abbotsford last hosted the Senior B Western Canadian Fastpitch Championships back in 2012. | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/390722441.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/d0c1c9ab94f87b4ed1078e74d22cadac81c924a2c8d328752134c9566ca2cbe3.json |
[
"Kelvin"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:18 | null | null | Funding sources trump need in prioritizing infrastructure | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391313621.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/56906abbotsfordMt.Lehmanroadexpansion-3-MORROW.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Mt. Lehman Road expansion goes ahead, leaving other road projects waiting | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The expansion of Mt. Lehman Road was announced on Aug. 19, 2016. (Left to right) Abbotsford International Airport vice-chair Diane Delves, MP Jati Sidhu, MLA Darryl Plecas, Mayor Henry Braun.
Feasibility may trump need when it comes to deciding which local infrastructure projects get a green light.
This is likely why a widening of Mt. Lehman Road from north of Simpson to the Abbotsford International Airport was announced this week, while the widening of Fraser Highway between Station and Mt. Lehman roads – perceived by many to be more necessary – remains on the wishlist for now.
The majority of the $22 million cost of four-laning the two-kilometre stretch of Mt. Lehman Road is being provided by the province, with the federal government pledging $8 million, and the City of Abbotsford kicking in a $2 million share.
Numerous online comments on an Abbotsford News story about the announcement criticized the decision, saying it was not as necessary as more lanes along Fraser Highway.
"Fraser Highway from Station Road to Mt. Lehman is a goat trail," wrote one commenter. "With this plan we'll just be trading one bottleneck for another..."
But it's not as simple as politicians choosing one project over the other. Unlike Mt. Lehman Road, which is a provincial highway, Fraser Highway falls under municipal jurisdiction, meaning the city would be on the hook for the estimated $40 million cost.
The city would first need commitments from developers along the stretch of Fraser Highway before going ahead with any plans, according to Abbotsford Coun. Dave Loewen, who said he is aware of congestion problems on that road.
"I avoid it, especially in rush-hour time. I'm told it's quite taxing on the patience," he said.
The municipality raises capital for such projects by collecting "cost shares" from developers who build along the road in question.
"Until something significant happens there in terms of development, we don't feel we can impose that bill on the property taxpayers of Abbotsford," said Loewen.
The city paid upfront for new sewer and drainage infrastructure leading to the Clearbrook Industrial Park and recovered the costs when developers subsequently built there, but Loewen said that scenario is unlikely to repeat along Fraser Highway. Loewen said improvements being made to King Connector will likely provide some relief to the congestion on Fraser Highway in the interim.
The City of Abbotsford has previously determined the stretch along Fraser Highway, which is currently zoned for agricultural use, is not viable for agricultural-industrial use, according to city manager George Murray.
City engineering staff are currently studying the viability of Fraser widening and will likely have a report ready this fall, he said.
The widening of Mt. Lehman will provide better access from Highway 1 to the airport for both passengers getting to flights and commercial traffic to the airport, said Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce executive director Allan Asaph.
The chamber compiled a list of five infrastructure project priorities in 2014 in conjunction with the city, with Mt. Lehman widening in second place and Fraser Highway at the bottom. (Widening of Highway 1 between 264 Street and Whatcom Road topped the list, with a Vye Road rail overpass and 16th Avenue improvements coming in third and fourth place.)
This ranking was not necessarily based on how each completed project would benefit local businesses and the community at large, but was rather a listing of the more feasible projects on top.
"A lot of the reasoning for the ranking in that order was the availability of funding, because that's really what it boils down to," said Asaph. "The federal government had announced the fact that they were going to have a major investment in infrastructure dollars and that's what would qualify for the widening of Highway 1."
Asaph said that if he was able to snap his fingers and make one of the five projects happen, it would be the widening of Fraser Highway.
"Anybody that looks at that sees that there's need there," he said. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391313621.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/b10dd0b74b83d43890ffef92f15bf3363c72525c058322bb8e67e4ac74a800f1.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:55 | null | null | There are serious problems with the B.C. government’s response to the foreign ownership issue last week ... | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fopinion%2F387876072.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | EDITORIAL: Housing response falls short | null | null | www.abbynews.com | There are serious problems with the B.C. government’s response to the foreign ownership issue last week – after just three weeks of studying the problem after changes to the property transfer tax form.
Here are some takeaways from a series of reports which fall considerably short in dealing with a growing affordability problem.
First, the reports suggest property flipping isn’t a problem and speculation is no worse than in previous hot real estate cycles.
But the information provided on property flipping was for all of B.C., not just markets where the activity is most heated. As well, property speculation may already be on the wane because of the challenges in flipping an already over-priced property, and thus not a really useful data set.
The report stated that foreign buyers only make up a small part of the market, or 5.1 per cent in Metro Vancouver.
Sadly, nobody believes this because place of residence is self-reported and the purchaser can use a company or law office with a local address.
The report also notes that 3,603 families have saved an average of $7,060 on their newly purchased homes and 10,470 didn’t have to pay property transfer tax because they were first-time buyers.
Unfortunately, these amounts are chump change when compared to the size of a down payment and a mortgage on the rocketing benchmark price of single-family home, now soaring above a half-million dollars in the eastern Valley to well over $1 million in the Metro Vancouver area.
The bottom line is people who were supposed to be in charge were asleep at the switch and Lower Mainland families are paying a hefty price as a result — a price fewer and fewer can afford.
– Black Press | http://www.abbynews.com/opinion/387876072.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/0769bfcd6ceaad24a2f22f104ff42deb9702847ee7c2f1f17eac25fd5594ce3f.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:45:45 | null | null | The following is a list of just some of the activities taking place in Abbotsford over the following week | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391436491.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | SLICE OF LIFE: Aug. 26 to Sept. 2 | null | null | www.abbynews.com | VICTORY WALK
The Abbotsford Women’s Centre for Adult and Teen Challenge BC holds its annual Victory Walk/Run-athon fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 27 at Mill Lake Park. The event starts at 9:30 a.m. See how many times you can go around Mill Lake in 90 minutes. Visit teenchallengebc.com and go to the events page to register or for more information.
CLOTHING GIVEAWAY
Abbotsford Baptist Church (33651 Busby Rd.) holds a Clothes2U give-away on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Clothes, toys, linens, diapers, footwear and personal/household items will be given free to those in need. Admission is $1 (free for kids under 12).
ANIMAL EDUCATION DAY
Maan Farms (790 McKenzie Rd.) holds an Animal Education Day on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn about different animals, see live demos and visit educational booths. Admission is free.
HOMINUM MEETS
Hominum Fraser Valley meets Monday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. This is an informal discussion and support group to help gay, bisexual and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated or single. For information and meeting location, call Art at 604-462-9813 or Don at 604-329-9760.
SURVIVOR MEET-UP
The Terry Fox Foundation holds a Cancer Survivor Meet-Up on Monday, Aug. 29 tom 7 to 9 p.m. The location is Clik Cafe Bistro, #100 1910 North Parallel Rd. This is a forum for cancer survivors, friends and family to meet and share stories and motivation. Info: 604-799-2912
INTERFAITH GROUP
The AIM Interfaith group meets Tuesday, Aug. 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Abbotsford Community Services, 2420 Montrose Ave.
HEP C GROUP
Positive Living Fraser Valley Society hosts a Hep C group on Wednesday, Aug. 31 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at #108A 32883 South Fraser Way. This is a free facilitated drop-in group for anyone diagnosed with hepatitis C. Info: 604-854-1101 or info@plfv.org
BLANKET TIME
Blankets for the Fraser Valley holds its monthly meeting on Thursday, Sept. 1 from 1to 4 p.m. at the Abbotsford Co-Op Hall, 32855 Marshall Rd. All are welcome to help put knitted and crocheted blankets together for those in need in Abbotsford. All materials are supplied. Donations of yarn are always appreciated. Info: Nancy Gallagher at 604-504-3713
DANCES EVERY FRIDAY
The Abbotsford Social Activity Association (ASAA) hosts dances every Friday from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at its hall, 33889 Essendene Ave. Cost is $8 for members and $10 for non-members. The bands for September are: Inner Mild (Sept. 9), Brian Zalo (Sept. 16), Geno Vegas (impersonations from Vegas on Sept. 23) and Sweetwater (Sept. 30).
STREET ROD EVENT
The Pacific International Street Rod Association hosts a Back to Bradner 45th anniversary event on Sunday, Sept. 4 at Bradner Sports Field, 5305 Bradner Rd. A show and shine runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., following by a wine/poker tour at 11 a.m. A banquet takes place ar Bradner Hall, starting with happy hour from 4 to 5 p.m. Tickets are $30 for the banquet. Visit pisra.com or call 604-880-1131 for more details. | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391436491.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/3b041800fd0237a9aad10c6338ce4f457c221f0a1475870ad32ed7dbfd4cdbf6.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:00:24 | null | null | Abbotsford Arts Council holds opening reception for annual show and sale | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F389758871.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/23890abbotsfordAnonymousArtshow-3-MORROW.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | PHOTO: Anonymous Art Show | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The opening reception for the Anonymous Art Show was held by the Abbotsford Arts Council on Saturday night at Kariton Gallery. The show runs until Aug. 30 and features artwork on unframed canvases of the same size. The pieces sell for $100, with half of that going to the arts council, and the artists remain anonymous until their pieces are purchased. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/389758871.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/425c7ef1eab55b3a8f2f729d36ffca80f1e160f058a6e8bce877fe1ad732f647.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:03:32 | null | null | Event on Saturday, Aug. 20 supports Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390510501.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/77698abbotsfordCultivatedinner.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Abbotsford restaurant participates in dinner fundraiser | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Restaurant 62 in Abbotsford will be involved in the second annual Cultivate dinner on Saturday in Chilliwack.
Restaurant 62 in Abbotsford partners with Cultivate and Co. in Chilliwack for the second annual Cultivate long-table dinner on Aug. 20 at the Chilliwack Corn Maze (41905 Yale Rd.).
The event, which starts at 5:30 p.m., is held in support of the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society.
Situated in an outdoor rural setting, this unique summer dining experience celebrates local food and builds awareness about the importance of the local farm-to-table movement.
This year’s menu will be prepared by Chef Jeff Massey of Restaurant 62 and Bonnie Friesen of Faspa and Co.
The four-course feast features locally sourced, sustainably grown and ethically harvested in-season ingredients from dozens of Fraser Valley farms.
Net proceeds go the the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society, which provides soup and other hot lunch items to 650 children at 16 schools in the Chilliwack school district.
Visit cultivateandco.com for more tickets and more information. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/390510501.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/0fe1b4dd15d9bdea3b8920afe237465dc1ff7573b1bce695360d1489b47b09f5.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T22:50:42 | null | null | Tuesday afternoon collision did not result in injuries | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391801461.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/14950abbotsfordIMG_1051.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Jeep flipped onto side in downtown Abbotsford crash | null | null | www.abbynews.com | A Jeep was turned on its side in a crash on Tuesday afternoon on McCallum Road.
A two-car crash put an SUV on its side after colliding with a Toyota Tundra pickup truck in downtown Abbotsford on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident happened around 3 p.m. on McCallum Road near Switzer Avenue.
Both Fire Rescue crews and police attended the scene, with police shutting down traffic on McCallum temporarily and diverting it onto Switzer.
There did not appear to be any injuries as a result of the crash. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391801461.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/da2c49c91e11f856f3f077a780122cb686d268ae978f5d7fa2f8d5b3cd5ff8e4.json |
[
"Jeff Nagel"
] | 2016-08-26T13:10:22 | null | null | TransLink says bridge repair work was done faster than expected over the summer, avoiding the need to continue closures in September | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391219531.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/14480BCLN2007Pattullotraffic2-7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Pattullo Bridge work finishes a month early | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The Pattullo Bridge will be reopened to all four lanes of traffic one month ahead of schedule, easing commutes in September when traffic volumes normally rise.
Rehabilitation work on the bridge deck has been underway since April 29 and TransLink had warned drivers to expect five months of delays until early October, with traffic reduced to one lane each way weekdays and complete bridge closures about two nights a week and one weekend a month.
"Despite wet weather in June, crews were able to get more done in a shorter period of time by scheduling additional weekend and overnight closures and reducing the number of concrete pours," TransLink officials said in a release.
The return to four-lane traffic during the day happens Monday, Aug. 29. Regular overnight lane closures that reduce the Pattullo to one lane each way at night for safety reasons will resume.
The final complete bridge closures were to be tonight, Thursday night and from 8 p.m. Friday Aug. 26 until 5 a.m. Monday Aug. 29.
Crews repaired 1,180 square metres of bridge deck. The work included milling off the asphalt surface, removing all deck concrete down to the top layer of rebar. repairing delaminated concrete and cleaning or replacing rebar, and repaving the deck area with a concrete overlay.
The aim was to extned the life of the bridge deck with minimal maintenance to keep the bridge open while a replacement is desinged and built, a project expected to take up to seven years.
The $10-million project was dramatically scaled down from what was originally intended to be a $100-million rehabilitation lasting 18 months.
TransLink officials last fall ruled out seismic rehab work – they decided it was too expensive if it was even possible – and opted to minimize spending since it intends to replace the Pattullo with a new bridge as quickly as possible. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391219531.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/79f537572a9926b40d45a342e0d9df8b11eb0c54f09745dbe98f9cff54963d6f.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:53 | null | null | Tragically Hip kick off tour's final show with fan favourites | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390816951.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Downie calls out to Trudeau during Tragically Hip's final show of tour | null | null | www.abbynews.com | KINGSTON, Ont. — The Tragically Hip mixed fan favourites, newer songs and some politics on Saturday night during the final show of their "Man Machine Poem" tour.
Lead singer Gord Downie, who started the show wearing a metallic silver suit and hat with a "Jaws" T-shirt underneath, hugged and kissed his bandmates before they stepped on stage at the K-Rock Centre in the group's hometown of Kingston, Ont.
Minutes earlier, as the raucous sold-out crowd waited for the band to emerge, an impromptu rendition of O Canada broke out and a banner reading "Thank You Prime Minister Downie!" was passed around the arena.
The band immediately gave fans what they wanted to hear, starting their set with four straight hits from the classic album "Fully Completely:" opener "50 Mission Cap," followed by "Courage (for Hugh MacLennan)," "Wheat Kings" and "At the Hundredth Meridian."
The Hip then segued into their latest album "Man Machine Poem," with four tracks including the single "In a World Possessed by the Human Mind."
Before "Machine," Downie launched into one of his trademark onstage rants, calling out to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was in the crowd for the show. Trudeau's official photographer tweeted a photo of the prime minister and Downie embracing before the concert.
"Well, you know, prime minister Trudeau's got me, his work with First Nations. He's got everybody. He's going to take us where we need to go," Downie said from the stage.
"It's going to take us 100 years to figure out what the hell went on up there," he continued, "but it isn't cool and everybody knows that. It's really, really bad, but we're going to figure it out, you're going to figure it out."
Many anticipate this will be the band's final tour, given the recent news that Downie is battling terminal brain cancer.
Before performing the "Road Apples" song "Fiddler's Green," Downie seemed to reference the outpouring of support from fans in the wake of his diagnosis.
"Thank you, people, for keeping me pushing and keeping me pushing," he said, which prompted a "Gordie!" chant from the audience.
After playing 21 songs, Downie and his fellow bandmates — guitarists Rob Baker and Paul Langlois, bassist Gord Sinclair and drummer Johnny Fay — embraced and prepared to retire for a pre-encore break. Downie was left alone on stage to take in the roaring ovation.
After returning for a few more songs, Downie again spoke about his fondness for Trudeau.
"Thank you to the prime minister for coming to our show, it really means a lot to all of us," he said.
"We're in good hands, folks, real good hands. He cares about the people way up North, that we were trained our entire lives to ignore, trained our entire lives to hear not a word of what's going on up there. And what's going on up there ain't good. It's maybe worse than it's ever been, so it's not on the improve. (But) we're going to get it fixed and we got the guy to do it, to start, to help.
"Thank you everybody. Thanks for listening to that. Thanks for listening, period. Have a nice life."
David Friend, The Canadian Press | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/390816951.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/d3ca08cf793ac40a45f722739ea647c2d48e58dfe0135168a87f14c474f4c78f.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:58:35 | null | null | Event on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Mill Lake Park in Abbotsford | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F389882611.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/74816abbotsfordRipVanFinn.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Rip Van Finn performs at Concert in the Park Series | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The group Rip Van Finn performs Saturday at the next Envision Financial Concert in the Park.
The group Rip Van Finn performs this Saturday as part of the Envision Financial Concert in the Park Series.
The concert runs from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Mill Lake Park (2387 Ware St.).
Rip Van Finn features an energetic blend of fiddle, bagpipes, alpenhorn, keys, guitar, and percussion.
Visit abbotsfordartscouncil.com for more information about the series, including the full schedule. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/389882611.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/1c18b2626eb458601f8d647b1bb1576958308d9dfa7439305636a943f902af5e.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T00:45:49 | null | null | Event a fundraiser for local and international service projects | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391459821.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/23440abbotsfordSaraLawson.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Rotary Club of Abbotsford to host President's Night Dinner | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The Rotary Club of Abbotsford hosts its annual President’s Night Dinner and Fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 22.
The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Phoenix Lounge, and this year club president Sara Lawson has chosen the theme Goin’ International to align with Rotary International’s presidential theme of Rotary Serving Humanity.
“Over the years, our Rotary Club has been well known for its good work in the community and for long-standing support of organizations such as Abbotsford Hospice Society, Holmberg House and the Abbotsford Food Bank through our Starfish Pack Program,” Lawson said.
This year’s President’s Night will again raise funds for the club’s usual community service projects and activities, as well as fund and support Rotary projects working internationally in countries where children and families suffer from significant poverty, oppression and uncertainty.
Club members recently contributed enough funds to purchase more than 20 wheelchairs that will complete a container shipment bound for Guatemala in February, a project initiated and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Abbotsford-Sumas.
Through this project, Rotarians will also have the opportunity to assist with the first-hand distribution of wheelchairs to the people in need.
Tickets for the President’s Night dinner are $50 and are available by calling Sara at 604-556-9395 or emailing sara_lawson@shaw.ca. Guest are invited to dress in their favourite international attire.
The evening includes international cuisine and entertainment, a trivia contest, a wine raffle and a silent auction.
For more information, visit abbotsfordrotary.com. | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391459821.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/06a5ca028a26504fddc44da041d8b2e87f0a636f8695be5c8e04a7cf0cd0ec92.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-26T12:53:03 | null | null | Photographers from across the province competed in amateur competition | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391187111.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/2985abbotsfordAmateurphotographjers.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Voting open for People's Choice Amateur Photography Competition | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Cameras were the focus as 70 photographers from across B.C., including Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Kelowna and Nelson, competed in the fourth annual Next Generation BC Amateur Photographer of the Year Contest at the recent Abbotsford International Airshow.
Sponsored by London Drugs and Black Press Media, the contest took place Aug. 12-14, as participants captured their best air, crowd, static, and wildcard shots.
Photographers experienced close-up action at the airshow including Friday's twilight show, and earned the "hot-side" tour at the airshow where they shot exclusive aircraft including the F-35, CF-18, FA-18, Breitling Jet Team, the Snowbirds and more for a chance to win the title of B.C.'s next Amateur Photographer title.
Awarding categories also include The Best in-air photograph ($750 grand prize), The Best ground/static scene photograph ($500 prize),The Best crowd scene photograph ($250 prize ), The Best video submission ($500 prize) all courtesy of London Drugs and honorary acknowledgement for Best Wildcard entry.
For the People's Choice Award Winner, the time has arrived for the public to vote on their favourite photo and be entered for a chance to win BC Lions game tickets.
For voting and contest information, click here. | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391187111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/d1f17d8112600105191f1be6743cfb03cb6ab3810fdf544867df5dcd3face40e.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:50:23 | null | null | Longboarding event began in Abbotsford last year | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F391452681.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/20386abbotsfordlongboardingonElkView1.0811.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Yardwaste Downhill Memorial Race moves to Chilliwack | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Longboarders (from left) Eleanor Issel, Mitch Kaemmer and Klayton Evanoff take a ride down Elk View Road in preparation for the Yardwaste Downhill Memorial Race and Safety Education Event on Aug. 27.
by Jenna Hauck, Black Press
Chilliwack hosts a group of longboarders this weekend as they gather for a day of downhill riding and safety demos.
The Yardwaste Downhill Memorial Race and Safety Education Event takes place Saturday, Aug. 27 along a stretch of Elk View Road, from Lindell to Ryder Lake roads.
It will be a friendly competition where longboarders participate in “free rides” where the emphasis is on safe riding without prizes or money to be won. It is hosted by Yardwaste Downhill (a team of longboard competitors), Abbotsford Community Services, and Chilliwack Community Services.
The event started last year in memory of 14-year-old Marcus Larabie of Abbotsford, who died while longboarding. Marcus was hit by an off-duty police officer in an Abbotsford intersection on the evening of Dec. 26, 2014.
One of his friends, who participates in programs at Abbotsford Community Services, came up with the idea to hold the event.
“A big part of this is remembering fallen longboarders,” says event organizer Alison Gutrath with Abbotsford Community Services.
There will be riders from Chilliwack, Abbotsford and beyond participating.
Last year about 60 longboarders registered and the event was held on a section of Discovery Trail in Abbotsford. The route included some sharp hairpin turns, making it a more difficult race compared to what it will be like on Elk View Road, says Gutrath.
The course will be like a “mid-point starting point and therefore (less experienced) riders will not feel as intimidated,” she adds.
All riders will be required to wear safety gear, including helmets, gloves, appropriate shoes, and long pants.
There will be an hour’s worth of safety demos by professional longboarders from Yardwaste, Coast Longboarding, and Replay Board Shop. Participants will learn how to stop, turn and slow down safely, as well as various other longboarding skills and techniques like how to crouch down properly.
Following the demos will be four hours of downhill riding. There are no classes of competitors, rather each heat is open to all levels which will give beginners a chance to watch and learn from the pros.
At noon, there will be a memorial time to remember those who have died longboarding, including Larabie, Dustin Mackenzie – an 11-year-old Abbotsford boy – and 19-year-old Dakota Leslie.
Spectators are welcome to come and watch.
The Yardwaste Downhill Memorial Race and Safety Education Event runs from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registration is 9:30 to 11 a.m., safety demos from 10 to 11 a.m., and free riding from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/391452681.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/9594c4eb5aea97709e390d6e6d935c11f7861284deef53333f75feceec2af36e.json |
[
"Vikki Hopes"
] | 2016-08-27T16:49:46 | null | null | Case regarding camp on former MSA Hospital grounds is set for court on Aug. 31 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391454511.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/21203abbotsfordmccallumcamp3.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | 'Protest camp' organizer responds to Fraser Health lawsuit | null | null | www.abbynews.com | A portion of the old MSA Hospital lands on McCallum Road is now occupied by a homeless protest camp.
Occupants of a homeless camp on the former MSA Hospital grounds on McCallum Road are in conflict with one another, according to court documents filed this week.
The documents were filed Tuesday in response to a civil suit launched by the Fraser Health Authority seeking a removal of the camp, which has been in place since mid-July.
Fraser Health owns the property and says the inhabitants are trespassing on private land.
The “application response” was filed by local pot activist Tim Felger (in photo), who says he organized the camp as a protest by the Drug War Survivors group to pressure government to build more affordable housing and provide more social services.
The Drug War Survivors is the same group that previously set up camps in Jubilee Park and along Gladys Avenue. Both camps were dismantled following action by the city and the courts.
In the documents, Felger opposes the orders sought by Fraser Health, which wants a permanent court injunction for the removal of the camp and to prohibit any further trespassing on the property.
However, Felger says the orders should apply to certain residents of the camp who are not members of the Drug War Survivors and are not there to make a political statement.
He says the Abbotsford Police should be permitted to evict those individuals.
“Unless people get my permission to camp there, they do not have that right,” Felger told The News.
Felger said freedom of expression entitles the Drug War Survivors to camp out on the Fraser Health land in order to present information to the public about “harm reduction and the drug war.”
In the court documents, he quotes a 1993 court decision from Ontario that states, “The absolute prohibition of postering on public property prevents the communication of political, cultural and artistic messages.”
The matter is scheduled to be heard in court next Wednesday (Aug. 31) in Vancouver.
Until last month, the land had remained vacant after the former MSA Hospital was demolished in 2009 and the new Abbotsford Regional Hospital opened on Marshall Road.
The protest camp is currently set up on a portion of the land that was not fenced in on the western boundary.
The occupants have received letters and verbal requests to vacate the area, but have failed to do so, and police require a court order to force an eviction. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391454511.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/74d5a394dd716858bfade01b72058dd9c755809f2d9b6b97476f47116aea6258.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-27T22:50:49 | null | null | Marissa Mann and Isabella Johnson picked up silver ribbons in the Star 2 category at Burnaby event | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F391450111.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/19672abbotsfordSummerSkate.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Successful Super Series for skaters | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Abbotsford figure skaters performed well at the BC Yukon Summer Skate Super Series.
Some Abbotsford figure skaters not only practise through the summer months, but also compete against others from across the province and Yukon.
Many local skaters competing in the B.C. Yukon Summer Skate Super Series in Burnaby last week walked away with what coach Coral Christianson called “fantastic results.”
Both Marissa Mann and Isabella Johnson picked up silver ribbons in the Star 2 category.
Samantha Venema got a gold ribbon in the Star 3 category. Anika Phinney earned a Star 5 silver medal.
Other Abbotsford results are below:
– Priya Alamwala Star 2 – bronze ribbon
– Jada Mann Star 2 – silver ribbon
– Jessica Pawlovich: Star 10 – tenth
– Emma Harley: Star 10 – eighth
– Taralyn Geddes: Star 10 – seventh
– Megan Geddes: Gold Ladies – fourth
– Mica Kerr: Star 5 – fourth | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/391450111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/9facfa9833baab0a16007f02bf465f347c2fbf90e33601be8f1d71a5d2ef4c67.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-26T20:49:32 | null | null | Police say two men grabbed woman near Albert Dyck boat launch on Thursday afternoon. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391430651.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/12362abbotsfordPolicecar.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Albert Dyck Park assault under investigation in Abbotsford | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Police are asking for the public's help as they investigate an assault on a woman at Albert Dyck Park Thursday afternoon.
Abbotsford Police say a 25-year-old woman was near the park's boat launch around 2:30 p.m. when she was approached by two men who tried to start a conversation. Police say the interaction took a sudden turn when one of the men grabbed the woman around the mouth and face while swearing at her.
The woman was able to break free, and several nearby youths who observed the incident told the men in question to leave the women alone.
The two men left the area in a white, hard-top four-door Jeep SUV, either a Cherokee or a Patriot.
The victim also left, but spotted the men again in their vehicle in the area of Clearbrook Road and Hillcrest Avenue prior to speaking to police.
Both suspects are described as South Asian men between 45 and 55 years old and around 6 feet. One man wore a black T-shirt and beige shorts, while the other wore a black T-shirt and shiny basketball or swim shorts.
Abbotsford Police major crime unit detectives are hoping to speak to the youths who intervened and any other witnesses. Anyone with information can call the police department at 604-859-5225, text 222973 (abbypd) or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391430651.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/bf3478470b9c97f3319f33fad2a7ac0b4b4ad672053d12c518f7b9f35ddbd897.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:47:52 | null | null | Volunteers to ask seniors about staff, food, privacy, medications and other conditions in residential care | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Flifestyles%2F391445481.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/18269BCLN2007Nursinghomeflickr7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Senior home survey seeks volunteers | null | null | www.abbynews.com | B.C. has 300 seniors' care facilities, and residents and their loved ones are to be surveyed on conditions.
More than 250 volunteers have signed up to compile a survey of seniors in residential care, and B.C.'s Seniors Advocate is looking for more.
The 27,000 seniors living in 300 residential care facilities around the province are being asked about their experience with care home staff, the quality of food, privacy, medications and other conditions.
It's the first comprehensive survey done in B.C., to measure resident satisfaction and provide a "roadmap" for improvements, said Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie.
Interviews will be conducted in person by trained volunteers, and a matching mail-out survey will be sent to each resident's most frequent visitor.
The project is seeking volunteers with a range of professional backgrounds, ages and ethnicities. To apply as a volunteer, visit www.surveybcseniors.org or call the Office of the Seniors Advocate at 1-877-952-3181. | http://www.abbynews.com/lifestyles/391445481.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/125458f9b12600d97bf056959210fdbb948f5410f3ebf99a7cbd16255746b15b.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:08:15 | null | null | This month's recipe is Tomato Cobbler with Blue Cheese Biscuits | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Flifestyles%2F391302351.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/51971abbotsfordTomatoCobbler.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Another $25 giveaway from Lepp Farm Market | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Lepp Farm Market in Abbotsford is holding a contest to win a $25 gift certificate.
To enter, find the related post on the Abbotsford News Facebook page and then comment with one ingredient and #BetterWhenShared.
Only one entry is permitted per person, but you can double your entry by sharing the contest with friends.
The contest ends at noon on Friday, Sept. 9.
The recipe below is featured on Lepp Farm Market's website and is a featured page in the Abbotsford News' My City publication from Aug. 19.
Tomato Cobbler with Blue Cheese Biscuits
Recipe and photo courtesy of Jason and Megan Lepp, Lepp Farm Market
I thought I had tried every kind of biscuit possible, and normally we don’t eat blue cheese, but this dish definitely changed our minds! Light and hearty, sweet and savory, it hits all the right notes and fills your house with the most amazing aroma. Perfect with a grilled steak and some of Lepp’s sweet corn. Tomato Cobbler, you have my heart for the rest of the summer. Recipe adapted from Joy the Baker
Biscuit ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp baking powder
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper, coarsely ground
3 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3 tbsp vegetable shortening, cold and cubed
1/2 cup Farmhouse Cheese Castle Blue, crumbled
3/4 cup cold buttermilk
Filling ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter
3 large onions, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
3 lbs cherry tomatoes, destemmed
1/4 cup basil, coarsely chopped
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
To taste, salt and black pepper, coarsely ground
Directions:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add butter and shortening. With your fingers, rub the fats into the dry ingredients until well incorporated. Some butter pieces will be the size of small peas, others the size of oat flakes. Stir in blue cheese crumbles.
Create a small well the centre of the flour mixture. Add buttermilk all at once. With a fork, quickly bring together the wet and dry ingredients. Dump dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead about 10 times, forming a disk. Plastic wrap the dough and refrigerate until filling is assembled.
Add olive oil and butter to a 12” cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and season with salt and pepper. Brown onions, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 18 to 20 min. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Remove pan from heat, add balsamic vinegar. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combined clean, whole, cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, flour, and red pepper flakes. Add caramelized onions and toss until lightly and evenly coated in flour. Season with salt and pepper.
Place rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 375 F. Pour the tomato and onion filling back into cast iron skillet and bake tomato filling for 25 minutes.
On a lightly floured work surface, roll out biscuit dough into a 3/4 or 1-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits. Remove the partially cooked filling from the oven and carefully place all 10 biscuits atop the tomato filling in the pan. Brush biscuit tops with buttermilk and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Return warm filling and biscuit dough to oven and bake for 17-20 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the tomato mixture is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. Tomato Cobbler is best served warm. | http://www.abbynews.com/lifestyles/391302351.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/5d810c16c033d71282823a32cb4a12f95eafbe896affbc7a0ebf0421214be9c8.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:10:40 | null | 2014-02-04T00:00:00 | Guns intercepted at Pacific region border crossings up 116 per cent compared to this time last year | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391214101.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/12413BCLN2007Gunsabb-HuntingtonCBSA2014-2.4.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | U.S. border gun seizures double | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Guns seized from visitors entering Canada at the Huntington-Abbotsford border crossing, 2014.
Canadian Border Services Agency has seen a 116 per cent increase in the number of firearms seized in the Pacific Region in the first half of 2016.
With a 10 per cent increase also recorded in the Prairie region, the CBSA is working with U.S. officials on a firearms awareness campaign to remind Americans about restrictions on bringing guns into Canada.
"Attempting to smuggle firearms across the border can result in immediate forfeiture, hefty fines and even significant jail time," said Kim Scoville, CBSA's regional director general for the Prairie region.
Visitors entering the border inspection line should declare any firearms at their first opportunity. Border services officers will take possession of the weapon if it is declared, but the visitor has the option of shipping it back under CBSA supervision or surrendering it without prosecution.
The RCMP has procedures for visitors bringing firearms into Canada | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391214101.html | en | 2014-02-04T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/83e436f89997272c58740e91252291e25b340f809c243d2deb499f9dff735619.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:56:23 | null | null | Alderidge Construction pledges $30,000 a year for 10 years | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F390637621.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/28207abbotsfordGuatemalatrip.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Abbotsford company supports town in Guatemala | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Doug Toews of Alderidge Construction visits with kids in Guatemala during a recent visit to the Central American country.
An Abbotsford custom-home renovation company has pledged $30,000 a year for 10 years to help support a small town in Guatemala.
The project began from a desire from Alderidge Construction owners Erik Toews and Mark Shatford and their team of 12 to give back to the community – locally and internationally.
“We felt truly blessed that we were doing well, but knew that so many others weren’t, so we started looking around for ways to contribute to the quality of life of others,” Toews said.
Locally, Alderidge has supported a recovery centre for men and Habitat for Humanity, and provides pro-bono renovation work for people who have come across challenges in their lives.
Two and a half years ago Shatford contacted Food for the Hungry (FH) – a Christian non-profit organization dedicated to ending poverty in developing countries – and set up an exploratory meeting for their entire staff to see if the goals of FH meshed with their own outreach desires.
Toews and his brother Doug recently took a 10-day vision trip to the Ixil region of Nebaj, Guatemala, and specifically to the small town of Acul.
“What we saw changed our lives,” Toews said.
Located 230 km northwest of Guatemala City, Acul is home to 826 families who live in abject poverty.
Nearly 70 per cent of the men are subsistence farmers and 30 per cent migrate for seasonal work within the country.
This leaves the average monthly income at approximately $10, which is 20 times lower than the average minimum wage in the country.
The children suffer from malnutrition and chronic diarrhea caused by unhealthy eating habits and lack of clean drinking water. Formal education is scarce and practical knowledge regarding health and nutrition is badly needed. In addition, opportunities for income generation are close to nil.
FH works with town leaders to create a sustainable development plan that will build local resources to address such obstacles as health, education and livelihood.
Locals are hired and trained to teach their neighbours about the importance of education and healthy hygiene habits – such as hand washing, clean living spaces and water treatment – as well as new methods of income generation.
The FH model is a ten year commitment, after which towns such as Acul “graduate” out of poverty to sustainability. Since 1994, FH has improved the lives and futures of people in 36 communities in Guatemala.
Toews said that before the trip, Alderidge had committed to sponsor two children.
“While we were there the chance to visit and hug those kids was humbling,” he said.
For more information on Alderidge Construction’s partnership with Food for the Hungry, visit fhcanada.org/GetInvolved/Alderidge/ | http://www.abbynews.com/community/390637621.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/20febb6161cf2869a4dbaf32894a3193a7e086916a93ee9b3879f3cab5540ae8.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:14:31 | null | null | I read with amazement that a recent consultant’s report found that the city’s road are in better-than-expected condition | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F386040641.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Street condition is deplorable | null | null | www.abbynews.com | I read with amazement that a recent consultant’s report found that the city’s road are in better-than-expected condition.
They must not have driven on Beaver Street, as it is deplorable.
The edges are cracked and crumbling and there are pot holes. They fill them in every couple of years, but it doesn’t last.
Right now they are paving Marshall Road at the end of Beaver and it doesn’t really need it.
Since we have no sidewalk, parents and children take their lives in their hands walking to attend the two schools in the area.
This street is used by emergency vehicles, school buses, dump trucks, and on garbage day, it is used by several trucks as a thru-way to Peardonville.
This is also used as a shortcut from Marshall Road to Peardonville by people exiting Highway 1.
This is one of the busier streets in Abbotsford. There are no stop signs on it and the way they speed down this street you would think they were on Highway 1.
We were promised back in 2008 that our street would be widened and a sidewalk installed. Here we are in 2016 and still nothing.
We continue to pay taxes for upkeep, like all the more upscale neighbourhoods and we should be treated just as fairly.
Muriel Thomas | http://www.abbynews.com/opinion/letters/386040641.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/5e654c38d280ae82eae24ccea373ae279abd01c7ffb7774047ca54a27d2dda0e.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-29T16:50:22 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | Early morning flames broke out in a room on the second floor | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391421901.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/11682BCLN2007ScreenShot2016-08-26at11.28.40AM.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Fire causes significant damage at Vancouver Sikh temple | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Damage is extensive following a fire at a Sikh temple in south Vancouver.
Firefighters were called to the Ross Street temple at about 2 a.m.
Flames broke out in a room on the second floor of the recently renovated building, and smoke was billowing from the main doors.
Battalion Chief Les Achtymichuk says crews had trouble fighting the fire because the temple does not have a sprinkler system.
No one was hurt and firefighters say they were able to remove religious books and other relics before any were damaged.
A cause of the fire has not been determined, and Achtymichuk says it's too early to say if it's suspicious.
"There's a lot of damage in ... a sort of upper room on the second floor. That's where the main concentration of the fire was, so that's where (investigators) are concentrating their investigation," he says
The Khalsa Diwan Society, which operates the Ross Street temple, says the gurdwara was built in 1970 and is considered one of the largest in North America.
(Global)
The Canadian Press | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391421901.html | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/c227ea41ad5ce1a8f55ac9fb25a8b7f8d5272b84327fc092e40b4184675928a3.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:07:04 | null | null | Abbotsford business presented with honour from Better Business Bureau | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fbusiness%2F387949762.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/19646abbotsfordBlueCrestElectric.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Blue Crest Electric receives Torch Award | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Blue Crest Electric was recently recognized with a Torch Award from the Better Business Bureau.
An Abbotsford business has been named as a recipient of an award from the Better Business Bureau.
Blue Crest Electric Ltd. received the Torch Award in Marketplace Excellence in the small business category. This is the third time that the company has earned the honour.
The Torch Awards began in 1997 as a way to recognize those companies that make big strides in advancing ethics and trust in the marketplace.
This year, 11 businesses from throughout the Lower Mainland were honoured during a gala luncheon at Vancouver’s Diamond Ballroom on June 16. | http://www.abbynews.com/business/387949762.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/a36deea6c4ef4b9dd39325b72002e6742d7d3b69b57c204d3f6808a22f1c4cc5.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-29T18:50:26 | null | null | Police found two handguns, a mini assault rifle and a variety of ammunition and marijuana during a curfew check on Aug. 26 in Abbotsford. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391634201.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/39840abbotsfordminiassaultrifle.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Guns and drugs seized, two arrested in connection to Townline Hill conflict | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Police arrested two men and seized drugs and guns during a check on two men connected with the ongoing Townline Hill conflict.
Two handguns, a mini assault rifle, a variety of ammunition and marijuana, heroin, fake oxycodone and cocaine were seized from a home in the 3200 block of Sisken Drive on August 25, according to the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU). Scales, packaging, cell phones, a laptop computer and brass knuckles were also seized, and two men have now been charged.
The CFSEU says members of its uniform gang enforcement team were checking bail conditions and curfews of individuals at the home when one noticed an assault rifle. Two men were arrested and a subsequent search yielded the various items.
Gagandeep Singh Sandhu, 23, faces a number of charges, including two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon with ammunition and one count each of possession of a controlled substance, possession of a restricted/prohibited weapon, and possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized.
Sukhvir Singh Sidhu, 24, has been charged with one count of possession of a controlled substance.
“If individuals show disregard for the law and the safety of the public, our officers will be there to ensure that these individuals are dealt with by disrupting their criminal activities and taking their guns and drugs off the streets,” Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton, spokesperson for the CFSEU-BC, said in a press release. “Having charges approved against these individuals will now hold them accountable for their actions which have negatively impacted the residents of Abbotsford.”
The conflict is named for Townline Road and adjacent neighbourhoods in which two groups of young men – primarily of South Asian descent – are battling for drug turf.
Three killings have so far been linked to the Townline Hill conflict – the October 2014 drive-by fatal shooting of 18-year-old Harwin Baringh on Sparrow Drive; the September 2015 death of innocent man Ping Shun Ao, 74, who was struck by a stray bullet which had been intended for his neighbour on Promontory Court; and the March 2016 shooting of a 22-year-old man while he was outside a home on Hawthorne Avenue.
In July, police said a shooting that left an SUV pockmarked with bullet holes and sent the occupant to hospital had "all the earmarks" of the conflict. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391634201.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/82cd4d522938d9e87ee620e6f2bf9725a9acb4eb024957d245f4fb47aaec0dde.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-28T22:50:13 | null | null | Talks continue, with rotating overtime ban set to begin Monday if no agreement by midnight Sunday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391545211.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68221BCLN200782072cranbrookdailyCPweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Postal workers union give details of job action if no deal is reached Sunday | null | null | www.abbynews.com | OTTAWA – Contract talks continue between Canada Post and its largest union, but neither side is hinting as to whether any progress has been made.
A federally appointed mediator has been meeting with the two sides since Friday to try to reach a deal.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers says if there is no deal by midnight, it would begin job action on Monday by having its members refusing to work overtime on a rotating basis, starting in Alberta and the Northwest Territories.
CUPW served 72 hour strike notice Thursday night, accusing Canada Post of forcing a labour disruption by refusing to bargain in good faith.
The two sides have been deadlocked for months on the issues of pay scales for rural letter carriers and proposed changes to pensions for future employees.
A CUPW news release says the initial job action will cause little disruption to Canada Post customers and that its members will still be delivering mail every day.
The Canadian Press | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391545211.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/474a882e01c5ca4707b50350bd07907567c44eb245d56a69e6430fad81af328c.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:04:16 | null | null | Asian demand for B.C. wood products peaked in 2013, analyst says China sales on pace for 50 per cent drop | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fbusiness%2F391328001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/63096BCLN2007thomsonchinaosb7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Lumber exports shift to U.S. as China sales slump | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Wood products exports from Canada to Asia were down 18 per cent in the first six months of 2016, with the biggest decline being softwood lumber from B.C. to China, according to the Seattle-based Wood Resources International.
Lumber sales to China are on pace to drop by 50 per cent this year compared to 2014, as B.C. lumber producers direct their sales to a healthy U.S. lumber market, according to customs data tracked for the Wood Resources Quarterly (www.woodprices.com).
The latest edition notes that by value, 75 per cent of B.C.'s exports to Asia in 2015 and 2016 are in the form of lumber, while 77 per cent of exports from Washington and Oregon are logs.
Asian demand reached a record high in 2013, with China passing Japan as the largest importer of North American wood products in 2011. The B.C. and federal governments promote wood construction in China and Japan, and B.C.'s forest minister is required to conduct an annual trade mission to China, Japan and other Asian countries.
The shift in demand provides extra urgency for talks to renew the Canada-U.S. softwood lumber agreement that expired last year. B.C. sales are booming without the export cap that both Ottawa and Washington have agreed will be required. | http://www.abbynews.com/business/391328001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/bad6f357e20d7ad48a09692f6cb9c983c50db32b98d5ab644d7e0947b0c9e5d9.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:14:26 | null | null | Representative of Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation says it doesn't support efforts to stop oil and gas development | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F388602211.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/64474BCLN2007DonnyWesleyjrLelu7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: U.S. foundations protecting salmon | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Re: Tree spikers cling to Lelu Island (B.C. Views, July 20).
Tom Fletcher seems to believe protecting salmon is not only bad, but dishonest. He suggests it’s an effort to cover up an international plot to kill B.C.’s oil and gas opportunities and Alberta’s oilsands.
His column falsely asserts that, along with other groups, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation has “poured money into anti-LNG campaigns in B.C., as they funded opposition to oilsands development before them. Indeed, the record suggests the long project to establish what environmental front groups named the Great Bear Rainforest was a strategy to stop hydrocarbon exports from western Canada, even as U.S. sources ramped up production.”
The foundation’s Wild Salmon Ecosystems Initiative supports groups working to ensure that all factors – social, environmental and economic – are fairly respected in development decisions. It does not fund efforts to stop oil and gas development.
Salmon support a huge economy that provides jobs, social and cultural benefits. And, in British Columbia, unlike many other parts of North America, we still have a chance to keep most salmon watersheds intact. This is why the foundation supports the efforts of communities to protect these fish. This means ensuring that scientific evidence is fully addressed in project development, including siting decisions.
We are proud supporters of the Great Bear Rainforest, not because we are “anti” anything else, but because this is a unique region. Like the Amazon and the Great Barrier Reef, it is recognized by experts around the globe as one of the planet’s most important and unique natural wonders.
It is a region that deserved to be protected on its own merits – a fact so clear that federal, provincial and First Nation governments came together with industry and environmental groups to ensure it would be. To portray this impressive collaboration as an anti-oil and gas does a disservice to the broad array of Canadians and First Nations that prioritized its preservation.
The Moore Foundation supported this as part of our commitment to assist groups that seek to protect wild salmon habitats along the West Coast. People, issues, organizations and funds cross the Canada-U.S. border all the time. There isn’t anything unusual about Canadian environmental groups requesting and receiving donations from international foundations that share the same environmental goals.
Ivan Thompson, B.C. Program Officer, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Vancouver | http://www.abbynews.com/opinion/letters/388602211.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/bf4ab6227d4e4b7e2e222669e4bbba429b190a66e098b3202562942582c7738a.json |
[
"Dan Ferguson"
] | 2016-08-26T18:50:09 | null | null | RCMP release photo of Good Samaritan who stopped to help injured officer | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391420561.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/8285langleytruckdriver.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | If this is you, please call police about Langley crash | null | null | www.abbynews.com | RCMP have released these pictures of the Good Samaritan and his truck taken at the scene of the Aug. 14 Hwy. 1 crash that injured an officer.
If your name is Earl and you are the man who pulled over his semi to help an injured RCMP officer, the police would like to talk to you.
The man with the truck is one of two Good Samaritans who stopped to provide assistance the morning of Sunday, Aug. 14 when an RCMP vehicle was rear-ended at the scene of a rollover accident in the westbound lane of Highway 1, near the 232 Street overpass in Langley.
"Earl" may have important information about the collision or its aftermath, RCMP said.
RCMP released photos of Earl and what is believed to be his truck, a greyish-blue Volvo tractor trailer, hauling a white 53’ refrigerated. There is a silver logo on the tractor’s door.
Earl has a tattoo on his right forearm.
The second witness was an Asian man in his 50’s. He is described as short, wearing a white button down shirt and tan pants.
He was driving a model year 2000 or newer tan or gold sedan in good condition .
Police believe the second witness was traveling behind the grey pick-up truck that collided with the police vehicle.
Anyone with any information on these individuals is asked to contact Sgt. Patrick Davies at 604-539-2730. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391420561.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/8ddc4bb04eac80fb05eb70b6d2fbbb67b9b5bcd10af7dd8278a81281c1031f38.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-29T18:50:24 | null | null | Stark posters warn of overdose dangers to be displayed at transit stops, bars and restaurants aimed at recreational drug users | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391622671.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | New Fraser Health poster campaign raises awareness of opioid overdoses | null | null | www.abbynews.com | SURREY, B.C. – Fraser Health has launched a poster ad campaign bolstering its ongoing drive to raise awareness of what it says is the overdose crisis in British Columbia.
The posters will be displayed at transit stops, bars and restaurants, and are aimed at recreational and regular drug users, their families and friends.
One message on the stark, black and white posters says: "If you use drugs: Have a plan. Go slowly. Use with a buddy. Carry naloxone."
The posters also offer instructions for anyone finding an overdose victim, directing them to call 911, start emergency breathing and use naloxone, which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Fraser Health says in a news release that it is confident about the effectiveness of the campaign because the posters were tested in focus groups of regular and recreational drug users.
In April, B.C.'s provincial health officer declared a public health emergency linked to the soaring number of opioid overdoses, and the declaration remains in effect.
Dr. Victoria Lee, Fraser Health's chief medical health officer, says the poster campaign is an extension of the health authority's ongoing public awareness campaign, but she says much more has been done to fight overdose deaths.
"We've created new substance-use beds to provide safe and supportive environments for people (who) require additional support on their road to recovery," Lee says in the release.
Over the last 12 to 18 months, Fraser Health has opened 50 new substance-use beds, including a three-bed program for youth and a 12-bed facility for women who are pregnant or have newborns.
A further 97 beds are slated to open by 2017 across the region, which stretches from Burnaby, through Surrey to White Rock and east to Hope.
The announcement of the poster campaign and the update on available substance-use beds comes as Fraser Health prepares to mark International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31.
The Canadian Press | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391622671.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/de7f1647d31da67e34c11032197bf8ba1021f8ed35c3001dc79b869dcf7b8999.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:55:04 | null | null | Abbotsford shelter invited the public to drop by for a visit on Saturday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391088951.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/57511abbotsfordSPCAopenhouse-2-MORROW.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | PHOTO: SPCA open house | null | null | www.abbynews.com | An inhabitant at the Abbotsford SPCA shelter was ready for visitors on Saturday during the facility's open house. The event included facility tours, a barbecue and information tables. The shelter is located at 34312 Industrial Way. | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391088951.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/f4142a8cd94450b087def45495c633a4abcb21a8526b75059c88f215cf16b8fc.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:06:13 | null | null | Four per cent rate hike already in effect, more to come as BC Hydro looks for savings to offset slow industrial demand | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fbusiness%2F388687371.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/9960BCLN2007DamRevelstokewiki7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | BC Hydro rates rise as demand slows | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Revelstoke dam on the Columbia River is due to have a sixth water turbine added, but Site C is BC Hydro's priority today.
BC Hydro is going ahead with its planned four per cent rate increase this year and deferring more debt to future years as it revises its electricity demand forecast downward.
The provincially-owned utility has not asked for an increase in its government-imposed rate plan despite a revised demand forecast with $3.5 billion less revenue over the next 10 years. BC Hydro has filed a three-year plan with the B.C. Utilities Commission that would increase rates four, 3.5 and three per cent in the next three years. The four per cent increase is already showing up on customer bills as an interim increase.
With the Site C dam on the Peace River and other upgrades amounting to $2 billion a year, the plan includes additional deferred debt until 2023, when Site C is due to be completed. BC Hydro CEO Jessica McDonald said the long-term nature of capital projects means its capital cost savings don't start until the next decade.
BC Hydro has also cut some of its familiar Power Smart activities, such as the fridge buy-back plan and incentives for energy efficient light bulbs.
McDonald said BC Hydro is seeing lower revenues due to two warm winters and downturns in mining and forest products. It still projects growing overall demand as population and economic growth continue.
NDP energy critic Adrian Dix said the new deferred debt represents roughly $500 for each of BC Hydro's two million customers, and it is a political move to get the B.C. Liberal government past next year's election.
The 10-year rates plan imposed by Energy Minister Bill Bennett in 2013 overstated demand to justify the construction of Site C, and translates to a 28 per cent rate increase. It allows the utilities commission to regain control over approving customer rates by 2020, after five years of political direction.
Dix said with the new demand forecast and commodity prices expected to remain low, BC Hydro should have added a sixth turbine to its Revelstoke dam for $450 million before embarking on the $9 billion Site C project. | http://www.abbynews.com/business/388687371.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/da971f817bc067e1e8e28e2e2e943d137d8e1d87f3820f830caccf4bd9f1ad11.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:45:47 | null | null | Fee event takes place Wednesday, Aug. 31 at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391305771.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/53519abbotsfordThinkstockPhotos-medfrd2118.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Forum in Abbotsford focuses on overdose awareness | null | null | www.abbynews.com | International Overdose Awareness Day will be recognized in Abbotsford with a special forum on Wednesday, Aug. 31 at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium (32315 South Fraser Way).
The free event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes presentations by Dr. Andrew Larder, chief medical health officer; Mark Goheen, a clinical specialist with Fraser Health; and Dr. John Farley, an infectious disease specialist.
Also making presentations are representatives from the Valley Youth Partnership for Engagement and Respect, the Warm Zone, and Impact Youth and Family Substance Use Services.
To register for the event, email ericat@wrsfv.ca or call 604-746-3301. | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391305771.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/3e683915e6eb75265725a732a192027b2634b8e5082a86afaaf4483e0988b0c7.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:52:01 | null | null | Session on Friday, Aug. 26 is titled Getting to Know Dementia | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391304091.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/52816abbotsfordAlzheimerSocietylogo.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Alzheimer Society offers free workshop in Abbotsford | null | null | www.abbynews.com | "You have dementia”: It's a phrase no one wants to hear from their doctor, yet it's a reality for an ever-increasing number of Abbotsford residents.
Alzheimer's disease is the second most feared disease for Canadians as they age.
To help residents understand this pressing health issue, the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. brings its free workshop, Getting to Know Dementia, to Abbotsford on Friday, Aug. 26.
Participants will receive basic information on dementia and the impact it has on individuals, their caregivers and their support networks.
The introductory session reviews the challenges of receiving a diagnosis of dementia. Participants will learn about the different types of support available throughout the dementia journey, how to begin planning for the future, and strategies for living well.
This session is intended for people experiencing early symptoms of dementia, as well as family members or friends who are currently supporting a person with a recent dementia diagnosis.
The workshop is not intended for the general public or health-care providers.
The workshop runs from 10 a.m. to noon at Garden Park Tower, 2825 Clearbrook Rd. Registration is required by calling 604-859-3889 or emailing info.southfraser@alzheimerbc.org.
For more information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias visit alzheimerbc.org | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391304091.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/0a01a0df9b5ce2bdeb259101a514c3e6b8468f98691c3140f02fbd7e69ded446.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:00:51 | null | null | Performances on Aug. 18 and 25 at Abbotsford park | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390508331.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/76340abbotsfordJaminJubilee-MORROW.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Two concerts left in Jam in Jubilee series | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The Lonesome Town Painters perform bluegrass during the Jam in Jubilee concert last Thursday night at Jubilee Park.
The 12th annual Jam in Jubilee concert series takes place every Thursday in August at Jubilee Park (corner of South Fraser Way and McCallum Road).
The concerts begin at 7 p.m. and are followed by the After Dark Series at Townhall Public House (33720 South Fraser Way). The series features local electronic, dance and pop-oriented acts, as well as local DJs.
Two concerts remain in the series:
– Aug. 18 – Kin, Jenny Banai, Poison Corn and (for the After Dark Series) DJ Joel Sojonky followed by Dove; and
– Aug. 25 – Chicken-Like Birds, Sylvia Platters, Atodaso and (for the After Dark Series) DJ Simon Bridgefoot followed by Teen Daze.
Visit jaminjubilee.com for more information. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/390508331.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/d9f4d8713e7d367b84b5d114a9a016b47c3754061c6ba67ecfdc9bae49c2b48f.json |
[
"Kelvin"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:00 | null | null | Nationwide tour stopped in 25 communities across Canada | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fnews%2F391327441.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/62923abbotsfordMobileMuslims.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Mobile Muslims came to counter Islamophobia, say thanks in Abbotsford | null | null | www.abbynews.com | A group of 'Mobile Muslims' stopped in Abbotsford last week, bringing a message of peace, friendship and thanks.
A nationwide tour aiming to combat Islamophobia with education and discussion stopped in Abbotsford on Thursday.
The travelling exhibition was presented by members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at community, most of whom live in the Greater Toronto area.
Abbotsford was the 22nd stop on the 25-town Mobile Muslim tour, which began in St. John's, Newfoundland, on July 13.
The group parked a trailer downtown on Essendene Avenue and stood on the sidewalk, engaging the public and handing out literature about their faith.
One member of the group from Edmonton, who studies in Toronto, held a large sign which read, "I am a Muslim, ask me anything."
4. Sign says: "I am a #Muslim, ask me anything" — He had a lively discussion about faith w/ #Abbotsford locals pic.twitter.com/YWbUQi5RKO — Kelvin Gawley (@KelvinGawley) August 19, 2016
The young man, who asked not to be named, engaged in a lively discussion about religion with local Christians.
Omer Ahmed, a banker from Ancaster, Ont., said all questions were welcome, with nothing off limits.
"It's a safe zone," he said. "You can have no filter and I'll be fine."
The group has fielded a great variety of questions, Ahmed said, some more benign than others. He said he has been asked about their Halal diet, which disallows pork and requires meat to be slaughtered and prepared in a specific way.
Ahmed has also explained to Canadians how he fits five daily prayers into his schedule.
The group has also been asked if they, and all Muslims, are supporters of the violent extremist group ISIS. He said the question came from someone who genuinely believed that all followers of Islam might support terrorism.
"ISIS is hijacking my faith," said Ahmed, who said he was not bothered by the question and was happy to be able to dispel the misconception. "We want people to get to know the real Islam, not just those who hijack it."
Ahmed described the several hours spent in sweltering heat as "overwhelmingly positive."
He said the group had spoken to several dozen locals, and other than some rude comments by people driving by, everyone was happy to see them and appreciative of their presence. Ahmed said one woman even left to fetch friends and return for a discussion.
He said it was particularly important to him and the group to reach people in less metropolitan places like Abbotsford, where people are less likely to have Muslim neighbours, friends and coworkers.
"We are just normal humans," he said.
Ahmed estimated encountering 5,000 people across the country. Of those, only five or six were outright negative experiences, he said.
The Mobile Muslim tour had an additional goal to public outreach and education, spelled out on the backs of their T-shirts: "Thank you, Canada."
Ahmed said loyalty to country is important in Islam and he is very grateful to express himself in a country with religious freedom.
For Ahmed, this is a freedom not available to him in his native Pakistan, where practitioners of the Ahmadiyya sect of Islam are often excluded and persecuted. He said he may even be killed for following the revivalist Islamic practice founded in Punjab, India in the late 1900s.
The group wrapped up its tour in Vancouver on Aug. 21, after stops in Delta and Victoria. | http://www.abbynews.com/news/391327441.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/9d99587e7e4706f2122e2056073c9935d10db9e36774fcc39cb6f1f4b9bd139f.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:38 | null | null | Collector plates will be available next year for modified as well as stock cars made between 1958 and 1974 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Flifestyles%2F389536851.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/25111BCLN2007Chevrolet_Camaro1969-wikim7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Collector program expanding to 'muscle cars' | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Modified versions of the 1969 Camaro SS and other popular vehicles will soon be eligible for B.C. collector plates, allowing occasional use for parades and car shows.
The B.C. government is expanding its collector vehicle licence system to include eligible modified cars made between 1958 and 1974, to capture the popular "muscle car" era of the 1960s.
The ICBC collector plate program gives car enthusiasts a lower-cost licence plate that allows occasional use for parades and classic car shows. ICBC plans to take applications starting in 2017 for eligible modified vehicles up to 1974, and replica cars resembling North American production cars from 1942 and earlier.
With strict rules that the cars must be in "collectible condition," changes will take in modified popular cars from the Dodge Duster to the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, as well as replicas of the popular Ford "deuce coupe" from the 1930s.
Premier Christy Clark announced a break for older cars this spring, allowing vehicles from 1940 or earlier and their replicas to run without fenders or mud flaps when the highway is dry and paved.
Transportation Minister Todd Stone said the collector car industry is significant for B.C., with registered collector vehicles having doubled to 26,000 in the past 10 years.
"We want to see this specialty vehicle program remain viable, preserve vehicle history and evolve with the times," Stone said. "That's why we are opening up the opportunity to owners of specialty cars within the 'muscle car' era."
Currently, the standard collector plate is available to cars 25 years or older, as well as discontinued or limited production vehicles 15 years or older. It requires a stock engine with no performance enhancements, no rust, dents or "significant wear and tear" of the interior.
Modified vehicles from 1958 or older are currently eligible for collector plates, if they retain the shell of the original body but have parts replaced or modified in the chassis, engine, suspension, steering or brakes.
Owners have to apply for a collector or modified collector plate, with purchase and parts bills, photos and inspection reports.
Applications for collector and modified collector programs are available on ICBC's website, www.icbc.com, and can be dropped off at Autoplan brokers. | http://www.abbynews.com/lifestyles/389536851.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/829d643c7dc5e27f7fb878e5e338e4cd0cd28cf27e652e47b05438a82b0c2518.json |
[
"Ben Lypka"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:02 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fsports%2F390714141.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/65454abbotsfordmarshall.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Marshall, Maple Volleys eliminated in quarter-finals | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Abbotsford's Steve Marshall and the Canadian men's indoor volleyball team is done in Rio after a loss in the quarter-finals to Russia.
Abbotsford's Steven Marshall and the Maple Volleys Olympic journey is over.
Team Canada's indoor volleyball team fell 3-0 (25-15, 25-20, 25-18) to Russia at the quarter-finals on Wednesday to put an end to their time in Rio.
Canadian head coach Glen Hoag, who will be leaving the program, said the team has things to work on, but the future is bright.
"The guys lack patience – it's a problem with this team," said head coach Glenn Hoag. "We need to learn from that and look at Tokyo (2020) now. Part of the group is fairly young so we have a good base to build on."
Canada entered the Olympics ranked 12th in the world, while Russia was ranked third. The loss ends a surprising Olympic run for Canada, which made its first Summer Games appearance since 1992. The team needed a last-chance qualifier in June to earn the spot in Rio.
Canada got off to an impressive start in Rio, defeating the 2015 FIVB World Cup champions from the United States in three straight sets in their opening match.
After losses to Brazil and France, the Canadians rebounded with a straight sets win over Mexico and then a four-set victory over Italy, the runners-up in the 2015 FIVB World Cup.
Canada closed the round robin portion of the tournament with a three and two record, good enough for second place in their pool.
Marshall, who made appearances in every game at the Olympics, played professional volleyball with Germany's SVG Lüneburg earlier this year. | http://www.abbynews.com/sports/390714141.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/65a17cbfda113fd8a210bf7fd1fddb2acc12528a8835744b347472a572e2d075.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T00:45:51 | null | null | Event on Sept. 11 at Mill Lake Park raises money for Abbotsford shelter | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391305981.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/53641abbotsfordSPCAPawsforaCauseWalk.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | SPCA holds annual Paws for a Cause Walk | null | null | www.abbynews.com | The annual Paws for a Cause Walk benefiting the SPCA takes place in Abbotsford on Sept. 11.
Fighting animal cruelty is as easy as a walk in the park.
Abbotsford is among 30 communities across the province taking part in the Scotiabank and BC SPCA Paws for a Cause Walk.
The local event, benefiting the Abbotsford BC SPCA branch, takes place Sunday, Sept. 11 at Mill Lake Park.
Registration begins at 10 a.m. with the walk starting at noon. Participants will be able to enjoy a barbecue, a balloon animal artist, a photo station, games for children and dogs, community booths, a 50/50 draw and prizes.
“This is the largest single event to raise funds to fight animal cruelty in British Columbia,” says Krista Constantineau, BC SPCA manager of fundraising events.
“We are overwhelmed by the participation each year. It’s so great to see thousands of people come together across the province to help B.C.’s most vulnerable animals.”
Visit spca.bc.ca/abbotsfordwalk to register or for more information. | http://www.abbynews.com/community/391305981.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/21e0cec2972087937eeb50e0632ec9bc8c2bd59fb8cd8d4169d7467cf4d53f44.json |
[
"John Arendt"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:27 | null | null | B.C. Day, on Monday, Aug. 1, is an opportunity to celebrate this spectacular province. See how well you know British Columbia. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Flifestyles%2F388492001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/60468summerlandimage.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | B.C. DAY TRIVIA QUIZ: How much do you know about British Columbia? | null | null | www.abbynews.com | B.C. Day, on Monday, Aug. 1, is an opportunity to celebrate this spectacular province. See how well you know British Columbia. | http://www.abbynews.com/lifestyles/388492001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/e4607fc95d7448b92451832e83c41ada31693e194732d44f00d9b491fb0761e1.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:47 | null | null | Schools are out and many students across the province are informed that they are falling behind ... | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F389309721.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Semester system needed | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Schools are out and many students across the province are informed that they are falling behind and either are retained or socially promoted. In most cases these students are born between June and December, and the school system chooses to blame their parents for poor family planning rather than instituting a minor organizational adjustment ensuring greater success.
Research shows retention rates for students born in the second half of the year are almost triple those born in the first half. Equally important is the negative impact from these lagging students on those who should be excelling but cannot because the school system is so preoccupied with trying to raise the academic standards of students whose only problem is their lower level of maturity.
The two-fold tragedy perpetrated by the school system is that immature students are penalized for beginning school too early and the strong students are held back because our moral imperative is to raise education standards for the weak. We need to help kids at the top more because our leaders in society are mostly from the top.
Our current schooling model wastes tax dollars because we needlessly retain for an extra year and provide remediation programs for many students whose only problem is that they started school less mature than their older classmates.
The simple solution is to introduce the semester system in grade one and having students begin schooling when they are six years old. A 12-month age range (and more) in a grade disadvantages too many students who know where they stand relative to classmates. This is a generalization and exceptions will occur; however, the research is overwhelming.
B.C. implemented this in 1992 because of the Sullivan Commission but it was canceled by the NDP. Today, empirical evidence abounds and waits for some government to introduce a more fair way of learning for our children.
Jim Dueck, Abbotsford | http://www.abbynews.com/opinion/letters/389309721.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/524ff29190c87cbf1cfd66bd5dddf928a202f6e153656d2c590b561019c4d1c2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:01:20 | null | null | Kylene Shannon among nine singers from across B.C. who vied for top prize | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abbynews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390510201.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/77530abbotsfordKyleneShannon.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Rockin' River Talent Search winner competed at Abbotsford venue | null | null | www.abbynews.com | Kylene Shannon
A finalist selected from an Abbotsford venue has been named the winner of the first Road to Rockin’ River Talent Search.
Kylene Shannon of Maple Ridge was among nine singers selected over eight weeks of competition to compete in the finals, held July 28 and 29 during the Rockin’ River country music festival in Merritt.
She was announced as the winner, and her prize was to open for CMT Artist of the Year Sam Hunt on July 30. Shannon will also get to record a song in a local studio.
Rockin’ River president and founder Kenny Hess said the competition was tough.
“It was tremendous. We were shocked. We had a brutal time trying to pick a winner,” he said.
Hess said several of the finalists have been invited to perform at a special artists’ showcase at next year’s festival, running Aug. 3 to 6.
The talent search began in April at eight venues, including Finnegan’s Pub in Abbotsford.
Each week, an average of eight contestants competed at each venue, with a winner being selected by a panel of judges. The weekly winners from each venue then competed in the finals for that location, with one singer from each club selected to advance to Merritt for the overall final competition.
This resulted in eight finalists, with an additional wild card contestant selected by the judges.
Shannon was the wild card pick. She and another finalist – Camryn Scott of Mission – had both competed at Finnegan’s Pub.
The seven other finalists and the venues where they competed were :
– Derek Pitts from Vancouver, Roosters Cabaret in Pitt Meadows:
– Niki Watson from Coldstream, Off the Beat Lounge in Salmon Arm;
– Joel West from Burns Lake, Treasure Cove Casino in Prince George;
– Louie Bigras from Penticton, The Barley Mill in Penticton;
– Teigen Gayse from Kelowna, OK Corral in Kelowna;
– Tammylynn Filgate from 100 Mile House, Rockin’ Firken Pub in Kamloops; and
– Chelsea Charlton from Aldergrove, ANAVETS Legion Pub in Chilliwack. | http://www.abbynews.com/entertainment/390510201.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.abbynews.com/69879e1b02655dd1bcdf5d776b34ab7765f3ca6baa5cff95c7154b7ae97aa995.json |
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