Checking in - process issues

Hi to everyone. Yes - I've been away, doing some travelling with my love and even back to discussing the possibilites of restarting our immigration process - as frustrating as it might be. In our case, the prospect of getting back in line for a PRP is one filled with doubt and dread. She's still not sure she can do it. Add to that the fact that neither one of us is in a place financially to afford it right now, and it seems like I'll be blogging about this, still, for a time to come...Hope your summer os going well. When the weather changes, I'll get back to more regular postings again. What are you doing in front of your computer now anyhow?!

Live Toronto web cam is history

Once upon a time, there was a webcam atop the building that houses the Panorama restaurant on Bay Street, north of College. I loved and used the camera very often to get a feel for what was happening, at the very least weather-wise, in T-dot.

A few months ago, I noticed the cam, which was accessible through the toronto.com website, was mis-aligned - no longer pointing where it should. Then I noticed the camera had gone offline completely. No explaination at either the toronto.com or Panorama websites as to what has happened to it.

I miss it. if you do too, write the good folks at toronto.com and let them know.

Immigrants feel positive about their Canada, but troubles remain

TheStar.com - Sharing a strong sense of belonging

Nice survey results article here noting the strong and positive connection Canadian immigrants feel to their new country. Here are a couple excerpts and I encourage you to read the artcile.

"Back home they say if you want to make a lot of money, don't go to Canada," he says laughing. "But if you want a peaceful, more civilized way of life, there is no place better."

"But there are several clouds on the horizon.

"Underemployment, discrimination and lack of cultural and political representation are immigration flashpoints reflected in the poll.

"The lack of recognition for foreign-trained professionals has made a cliché out of the Toronto taxi driver with a PhD. Employment is ranked as the most important issue governments should address among immigrants here less than 10 years.

"Although not a dominant sentiment among visible minority groups, a worrisome 37 per cent say they have personally experienced discrimination.

"About 50 per cent of visible minorities feel the mainstream media present negative stereotypes of many people from racial or ethnic minorities."

This isn't a "bad news" poll. All in all it gives and excellent and balanced view of the state of immigrants in the most populous of Canadian cities. Do yourself a favor and read the entire article for an up to date view of the immigrant experience in Canada.