City briefs

Physicist to receive honorary degree

Dr. Arthur B. McDonald, a Nobel Prize-winning astrophysicist, will receive an honorary degree at the University of Winnipeg’s upcoming fall convocation on Oct. 18. McDonald received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2015 in conjunction with Japanese physicist Takaaki Kajita for the discovery of neutrino oscillations and demonstrating that neutrinos have mass. U of W associate physics professor Dr. Blair Jamieson, who worked with the Nobel Prize winner, describes McDonald as “a superstar amongst physicists in Canada.” More details about the ceremony and honorary degree recipients can be found at uwinnipeg.ca/convocation.

Global Dialogue Program makes its way to campus

The Marsha Hanen Global Dialogue and Ethics Program, which “promotes the open expression and dissemination of ideas and respectful discussion,” is inviting submissions from University of Winnipeg (U of W) faculty members. The program, with grants totalling around $7,500, encourages interdisciplinary research on ethical issues, such as human rights and global health. Applications are due on Oct. 15 and can be submitted through the U of W website.

Shared streets in the Exchange

City councillor Vivian Santos brought forward the Shared Streets concept at the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal & Public Works meeting on Oct. 1. The project proposed shared street spaces for bikers, pedestrians and traffic in the following areas: Albert Street between Bannatyne and Notre Dame Avenues, Arthur Street between Bannatyne and Notre Dame Avenues and Bannatyne Avenue between Main and King Streets. The motion was passed with construction ready to start in the next few months.

Key findings for the federal election

With the 43rd Canadian federal election just weeks away, the non-profit Angus Reid Institute has compiled a list of key findings from the 2015 election to help voters grasp the political climate. Among the most noteworthy are how the Liberals ended with a nine-point advantage in the last election, with the Conservatives currently leading with a six-point one and dwindling support for the New Democratic Party since the 2015 election with it currently faring the worst in the Quebec ridings.

Jail, death and mental illness

Soleiman Faqiri’s story broke headlines after he was found dead in his Ontario jail cell following his arrest after an altercation with a neighbour. Yusuf Faqiri, his brother, will speak on Monday, Oct. 7 at 12:30 p.m. in Room 1L13 (Lockhart Hall) at the University of Winnipeg about this event regarding his brother’s death and the larger conversation surrounding human rights violations in Canada’s prisons and the rights of people with mental illnesses

Zoo Lights Festival

The Zoo Lights Festival will showcase thousands of light installations and activities this holiday season, with tickets going on sale on Oct. 16. The celebrations will feature live music, family-friendly activities, a pride night, a pop-up market and an appearance by Santa among others. The event will run for 32 nights between Nov. 30, 2019 and Jan. 5, 2020.

Published in Volume 74, Number 5 of The Uniter (October 3, 2019)

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