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15 · Wednesday, March 7, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Strong Women, Strong Canada Women in rural, remote and northern communities: Key to Canada's economic prosperity Women across Canada are as diverse as the communities they live in. This year's theme for International Women's Day and International Women's Week celebrates women's roles in the economic prosperity of rural, remote and Northern regions. Canada covers a total area 9,984,670 square kilometres. It is home to 17.4 million women and girls and contains more than 5,400 communities -- approximately 5,200 of which are rural, remote or Northern. During the week of March 8, 2012, we are celebrating the three million Canadian women and girls across every province and territory who are integral to life in these rural, remote and Northern communities. In rural and remote areas, women make up approximately 45% of the labour force, but significant gaps still exist between women and men in labour force participation rates, employment rates and income. These trends are more pronounced for Aboriginal women, who make up a large part of the rural, remote and Northern population. Women and girls are contributing to economic prosperity in these regions through innovative projects such as business networks and training in non-traditional occupations. Leadership initiatives for women and girls in rural and remote areas can also be found across the country. International Women's Day has been celebrated for more than 100 years. In that time, substantial progress has been made in advancing equality for women, and we recognize the critical role that women continue to play in the prosperity of Canada's diverse communities. Celebrate In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling on member states to proclaim a day for women's rights and international peace. Following the United Nations' lead, Canada chose March 8 as International Women's Day. Each year at this time, Canadians celebrate progress toward equality for women and their full participation, reflect on the challenges and barriers that remain, and consider future steps to achieving equality for all women, in all aspects of their lives. Over time, International Women's Day has grown into a week-long series of commemorative events and activities across the country. International Women's Week 2012 begins on Sunday, March 4 and wraps up on Saturday, March 10. We encourage all Canadians -- women and men, girls and boys -- to promote International Women's Day / International Women's Week. Better yet, why not organize your own event in your community, organization or workplace? Source: www.swc-cfc.gc.ca Nicole Clark Nicole Clark is an Audiologist and owner of The Oakville Hearing Centre located at 207-1235 Trafalgar Road. She is a proven professional with over 10 years of experience. Nicole is an advanced technology expert with the training and expertise to handle most hearing healthcare issues. 1235 Trafalgar Road, Suite 207 · 905-849-5894 · www.oakvillehearing.com The Oakville School of Dance Amanda Bayliss Oakville holds the promotion of the arts in such high esteem, and I feel I have the unique capabilities of educating young dancers and audiences within the realms of classical ballet. Drawing from my extensive training as a dancer, training and experience as a teacher, and performing experience I am able to mentor young dancers as well as introduce and promote culture to the students. For 50 years, the Oakville School of Dance has provided a long tradition of excellence in classical and contemporary ballet training. The unique process of the School's training guides young dancers through the world of ballet from pre-school levels to professional levels in a positive, nurturing environment. The school is committed to the belief that ballet improves confidence, coordination, memorization and discipline, therefore enhancing any lifestyle! Call or email us for more information about the school, its programs and auditions. 260 Robinson Street, Oakville, ON · 905.844.7035 · oakvilleballetinfo@cogeco.ca Oakville Hospital Foundation This International Women's Day, the Oakville Hospital Foundation is pleased to celebrate the many strong women - physicians, nurses, staff, volunteers, and donors - who make Oakville-Trafalgar Memorial Hospital great. Your contributions are truly inspirational and ensure we all have access to high quality healthcare services, close to home. Thank you - for the health of our community 327 Reynolds Street, Oakville · www.oakvillehospitalfoundation.com TENDER LOVE & CARE 24 7 d hrs/d ays ay /w k OAKVILLE PLACE DENTAL Dr. Marisa D'Angelo has been practicing dentistry for the past ten years. All these years were spent providing care to adults and children at Oakville Place Dental. She is married and enjoys a variety of extra curricular activities. She believes a good balance between her personal and professional life keeps her mentally and physically motivated and energized. Dr. D'Angelo is dedicated to providing dental treatment in a compassionate and caring environment. She believes that a healthy smile is an important component to a healthy lifestyle. Not only are there Marisa D'Angelo great medical benefits to a healthy mouth, but it also contributes to a strong self-image and improved confidence. This philosophy starts with excellent oral care, and is very important to encourage and instill in our children, so they mature with a positive sense of self and a lifelong care and respect for their bodies. Providing exceptional quality care both inside & outside the home. · Palliative Care · Dementia Care · Personal Care · Home Care Special Care For Seniors since 1991 · Light Exercise · Companion Services · Manicures · Pedicures · Fluent in English, · Accompany to any Spanish, Italian appointments & Portuguese · Hairdressing Tel: 905-847-4463 Cell: 905-467-7716 www.tlcforseniors.goldbook.ca Committed Co C om to quality care for an enjoyable quality of life! Teresa Gigliotti Maria Rodrigues along with her husband Alexandre purchased Ola Bakery in 2009. Maria brings many years of experience catering at weddings, banquets, communions and many other social events. Maria's specialty is Portuguese cuisine and some of her delicacies include: Maria Rodrigues Sea Bass · Codfish · Rabbit BBQ Chicken · Beef A Casa · Biffanas & a Variety of Homemade Soups & Sandwiches Give Ola Bakery a try ­ you will be happy that you did! 447 Speers Rd., Oakville · 905-845-5221 Fax: 905-618-5221 · www.olabakery.com Oakville Place Mall · 905 842-6030 · www.dentistoakville.com