Features
Champion of Winnipeg art scene receives prestigious University of Winnipeg alumni award
By MYRON LOVE Thirty-five years ago, Meeka Walsh and her life partner, Robert Enright, took charge of a struggling arts magazine. Under their leadership, the duo transformed the renamed “Border Crossings” into an award-winning and internationally known arts publication and Walsh, as editor, has become arguably our community’s leading advocate for and promoter of local artists in all fields of artistic endeavour.
In 2017, Walsh was inducted into the Order of Canada for her literary efforts. And two weeks ago – on Friday, October 15 – the award-winning writer, art critic and curator was the recipient of another prestigious honour when she was presented the University of Winnipeg Alumni Association’s highest honour – that being the Distinguished Alumni Award – during the university’s 121st Convocation.
“I am deeply honoured to have been chosen for this award,” says the Class of 1984 Art History graduate.
In his October 7th writeup accompanying the presentation, University of Winnipeg digital communications co-ordinator Brandon Logan noted that “in her nearly three decades as editor of the quarterly Border Crossings, Walsh has put Winnipeg art on the map in a way that no other individual has in the city’s rich cultural history.
“Her regular essays on language, art, ideas, books, places, and much more have long been a fixture of the magazine, as have in-depth interviews with national and international artists such as Yoko Ono, Michael Snow, and fellow UWinnipeg alum Guy Maddin.”
In an article that this writer published in the Canadian Jewish News five years ago – coinciding with Walsh’s Order of Canada induction, she noted that she grew up in an artistic environment. Her mother, the late Faye Settler, for years operated The Curiosity Shop and Upstairs Gallery, an antique store in downtown Winnipeg.
Walsh’s roots in Canada go back to among the earliest Jewish settlers in this region. Her great-grandfather on her mother’s side, Rabbi Jacob Wasserman, was the first rabbi on the Prairies west of Winnipeg. Her other great-grandfather was also a rabbi. Her other great-grandfather was Solomon Brownstone, who was a teacher and rabbi. He came to Canada in the 1870s and travelled to Palestine around 1903 to help settle the land as part of the Zionist Aliyah. He died in Tiberius in 1907.
Walsh further noted that she often touches on topics relating to Israel and Jewish identity in her editorials in “Border Crossings.”
Walsh’s and Enright’s vision for the non-profit quarterly magazine was that the publication should be one that crossed borders – both geographically and artistically – hence the new name, “Border Crossings”.
The magazine now offers features and commentary on painters, sculptors, authors, filmmakers, performance artists, music and dance from around the world.
The magazine includes ads from many art galleries across Canada. Some of the venues include the New York Public Library, libraries at Columbia and Yale universities, the Metropolitan Museum of Public Art, the Chicago Institute of Art and many major European cultural institutions, Walsh noted.
Although the magazine aims to be international in scope, Walsh noted that local artists and performers are not neglected. “Winnipeg has a very rich cultural art scene,” she said.
“In Border Crossings, we also try to recognize new Winnipeg-based artists and introduce them to the wider world. We help them reach larger audiences.
While “Border Crossings” does have an active website, Walsh says that the focus remains on engaging readers in print.
“We spend a lot of attention on the magazine’s appearance,” she observed. “The magazine itself is also a work of art.”“Border Crossings” has won dozens of national Canadian magazine awards and Walsh herself was previously awarded a Gold Medal by the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts in 2007.
Throughout her illustrious career as a writer, editor, art critic, and curator, Walsh has been a champion of Winnipeg’s local art scene. In 2003, the Western Magazine Awards honoured Walsh with a Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also awarded a Gold Medal by the Royal Canadian Academy in 2007 for her contribution to the arts in Canada.
In addition to Walsh’s guidance of “Border Crossings,” she is a celebrated author whose short fiction has been published in anthologies such as “Oxford Book of Stories by Canadian Women in English.” Among her works are the short story collection “The Garden of Earthly Intimacies,” published in 1996, and, most recently the essay collection “Malleable Forms,” which was released last May
“Malleable Forms,”which was published by Winnipeg-based Arbeiter Ring Publishers. is a “collection of forty-seven stories encompassing topics including literature, painting, photography, music, family, dogs, spirituality and other whimsical subjects.
Walsh is proud to say that the introduction to “Malleable Forms” was written by international critic and art writer Barry Schwabsky.
Walsh adds that she was recently featured on the international art publication Momus’s podcast speaking with guest host Jarrett Earnest about her new book and her overall lifelong engagement with art.
“I am happiest when I am writing,” she told Earnest.
Features
A Jewish Perspective on the Hidden Gems of Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta
Nestled along Mexico’s Pacific coast, Nuevo Vallarta and its neighboring city, Puerto Vallarta, have become popular destinations for travelers seeking sun, sea and cultural experiences. For Jewish travelers, exploring these cities offers a unique blend of relaxation and discovery; from pristine beaches to vibrant local culture, here’s a perspective on the hidden gems these destinations offer.
Traveling to Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta
Barceló Puerto Vallarta: A Tranquil Haven
Among the myriad of accommodations in the region, the Barceló Occidental Nuevo Vallarta (with bookings at https://www.barcelo.com/en-ca/occidental-nuevo-vallarta/) stands out as a serene retreat. Situated on Mismaloya Beach, this resort combines traditional Mexican architecture with modern amenities. Its all-inclusive packages cater to families, couples and solo travelers, providing an ideal base for exploring both Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta.
Exploring Nuevo Vallarta
Embracing Nature at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary, located a short drive from Nuevo Vallarta. This sanctuary not only preserves native wildlife but also offers educational tours that delve into the region’s ecosystem. For Jewish travelers, it provides an opportunity to connect with nature while appreciating Mexico’s biodiversity.
Cultural Insight at the Marina Vallarta
The Marina Vallarta, known for its upscale ambiance and waterfront dining, offers a glimpse into local life. Jewish travelers can explore boutique shops and art galleries while enjoying a variety of international cuisines. The marina’s lively atmosphere during sunset, with boats bobbing gently in the marina and street performers entertaining passersby, creates a memorable experience.
Discovering Puerto Vallarta
Historic Exploration in the Zona Romántica
Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica, also known as Old Vallarta, beckons history buffs and culture seekers. Cobblestone streets wind through quaint neighborhoods lined with colorful colonial architecture. Jewish travelers can visit the Zona Romántica’s eclectic art galleries, boutique cafes and the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Artistic Marvels at the Malecón
A stroll along the Malecón, Puerto Vallarta’s oceanfront promenade, reveals a treasure trove of sculptures and open-air art installations. From the whimsical Seahorse sculpture to the thought-provoking Millennium sculpture series, each artwork tells a story of Mexico’s artistic spirit. Jewish travelers can engage with local artists and appreciate the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines Puerto Vallarta.
Culinary Delights
Savoring Kosher-Friendly Cuisine
While kosher options are limited in Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta, some restaurants and resorts offer kosher-friendly menus upon request. The culinary scene in both cities blends traditional Mexican flavors with international influences, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate. Jewish travelers can indulge in fresh seafood ceviche, traditional tacos al pastor and refreshing aguas frescas while soaking in the coastal ambiance.
Community Engagement
Connecting with Local Jewish Communities
For Jewish travelers interested in community engagement, both Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta host small Jewish communities. Synagogues and Jewish community centers welcome visitors seeking spiritual connection and cultural exchange. Engaging with local Jewish communities provides a deeper understanding of Mexican-Jewish heritage and fosters meaningful connections across cultures.
Final Note
Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta offer Jewish travelers a blend of relaxation, cultural exploration and natural beauty. Whether basking in the sun on pristine beaches, exploring historic neighborhoods or savoring culinary delights, these cities provide a rich tapestry of experiences. With accommodations like the Barceló Puerto Vallarta offering comfort and convenience, travelers can immerse themselves in Mexico’s Pacific coast while appreciating its hidden gems from a unique perspective.
Features
Gambling Statistics Shine Light on Canadian Gambling Culture
Explore pivotal statistics that highlight Canada’s gambling culture. Get a concise overview of the trends shaping the nation’s betting landscape.
Canada’s gambling culture is as diverse as its landscape, and recent statistics shed light on this thriving sector. From coast to coast, Canadians engage in various forms of betting, each with its own set of trends and numbers. This article delves into the data, uncovering the patterns and preferences defining gambling nationwide.
Canadian Gambling Statistics
User penetration refers to the percentage of consumers engaging with a product or service beyond the expected audience. Despite a 47% decline in 2023, the online gambling industry is projected to expand.
By 2027, it’s forecasted that the gambling market will cater to 20.38 million individuals. This trend suggests an increasing preference among Canadians for online gambling over traditional brick-and-mortar casinos.
The industry boasted a 97% return on investment in 2022, outperforming land-based casinos, which only saw a 61% return. With the rising interest in online betting, Canada’s online casino industry is experiencing the highest user penetration rate.
What Is the Average Expenditure on Gambling by Canadians?
Many enjoy the thrill of the occasional game of chance. The fact that you can retain all of your earnings, as there are no taxes on gambling profits in Canada, adds to the allure of gambling. In Canada, winnings are subject to taxation only for professional gamblers with a sustained winning streak.
In recent years, the trend toward online casinos has changed. The pandemic-induced closures of land-based casinos accelerated this change. It’s a profitable industry, as 60% of Canadians say they spend money gambling each month.
Canadian gambling statistics:
- Six out of ten Canadians have gambled.
- The monthly average expenditure for gaming and gambling in Canada is $6.75.
- A month’s worth of gaming expenses is reported by 63% of males and 57% of women.
- According to 73% of Canadians, gambling-related issues have gotten worse in their region.
The Increasing Attraction to Online Casino Gambling in Canada
An increasing number of Canadians are using online casinos, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. They offer various benefits regular casinos do not and are more convenient. Over time, land-based casinos’ revenue has decreased due to the growing popularity of online gambling sites.
The pandemic shutdowns accelerated the drop. For instance, the land-based casinos in Alberta no longer make as much money as they once did. Consequently, the Albertan government opened an online casino, and other governments quickly adopted similar strategies.
Casino Games at Online Casinos in Canada
Online casinos in Canada offer various games that cater to different preferences. Some of the most popular casino games at Canadian online casinos include:
- Slots: These are the most common and varied, with themes ranging from classic fruit machines to the latest online slot games with advanced graphics and features.
- Table Games: Classics like blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat are available in multiple variations.
- Live Dealer Games: These provide an immersive experience, allowing players to interact with real dealers and other players in real time.
- Video Poker: A favourite for many, combining elements of slots and poker in a unique format.
- Progressive Jackpots: Games that offer the chance to win life-changing sums of money with a single spin.
- Canadian Legalities for Online Gambling Sites
- Casinos are legal in Canada, but each province and territory has the authority to establish its gaming regulations and issue online gambling website licences. Saskatchewan is the only province that does not host multiple online gaming sites.
- Authorities in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba issue licences without a specific requirement, but these online casinos must operate exclusively within their respective provincial borders. Online gaming sites seeking to operate beyond these borders need a special agreement.
- In Canada, only land-based casinos face penalties; foreign operators can only function by obtaining local licenses. Although offshore casinos cannot legally target Canadian players, they can accept them.
- Statistics on Gambling Addiction in Canada
- While the majority of gamblers do so without experiencing issues, there are hazards and health issues associated with it for some people. Because of this, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) carries out studies and creates resources aimed at assisting Canadians in making wise decisions regarding their gambling, both generally and, in particular, high-risk scenarios, like when they’re using alcohol or other drugs.
- Here are some key statistics on gambling addiction in Canada for the year 2024:
- 64.5% of Canadians aged 15 or older actively participated in gambling activities within the past year.
- 1.6% of Canadian gamblers, representing approximately 304,400 individuals, face moderate-to-severe gambling addiction risks.
- Canadian males reported higher gambling participation and addiction risks compared to females.
- Indigenous Canadians showed a higher tendency to gamble (72.4%) and experienced greater susceptibility to gambling problems (4.5%) than non-Indigenous people.
- In Canada, responsible gambling is promoted through various programs and initiatives, ensuring that individuals engage in betting activities within their means and maintain control. The emphasis is on providing resources and support to prevent gambling addiction and encourage safe, enjoyable gaming experiences.
- Reflecting on Canada’s Responsible Gambling Journey
- The statistics we’ve explored offer a revealing glimpse into Canada’s gambling culture, highlighting both the widespread appeal and the responsible practices of Canadian bettors. As the industry evolves, it reflects the country’s commitment to balancing entertainment with economic benefit and social responsibility. The future of gambling in Canada seems poised to be driven by informed choices and a clear understanding of the risks and rewards involved.
Features
Caesars Windsor Reduces Operating Hours for Sports Betting Counter
Sports betting has rapidly evolved into a major attraction, drawing a diverse audience ranging from casual participants to dedicated enthusiasts, and its popularity is only increasing with the proliferation of online platforms. In particular, Canada has seen a notable rise in sports betting activities since the legalization of single-event sports betting in August 2021, which opened doors to a multitude of betting avenues, both in physical locations and online.
The shift towards online sportsbooks has been especially significant, marking a notable change in the landscape of sports betting. Given the expansive range of online sportsbooks available to Canadians, experts like Neil Roarty provide critical reviews and comparisons that guide bettors through the complex array of online options. These sites delve into the nuances of each platform, evaluating everything from user interface and betting options to the perks and security features they offer (source: bestsportsbettingcanada.ca/).
Despite the rising trend in online betting, traditional sportsbooks like those in casinos are adjusting to the new landscape. Caesars Windsor, for instance, has recently made significant changes to its sports betting services. Initially projected to increase job opportunities and enhance visitor footfall, thereby boosting various service-related positions within the casino, the reality has somewhat shifted.
The casino’s CEO, Kevin Laforet, had expressed optimism at the sportsbook’s inauguration in January 2023, citing anticipated growth in employment opportunities due to expected higher traffic. This optimism was rooted in the broader economic benefits typically associated with casino expansions, such as increased employment for local and migrant communities including roles like dealers, bartenders, and security staff.
However, recent developments have seen Caesars Windsor recalibrating its approach to sports betting. According to a spokesperson from the casino, after a detailed review of betting trends at their facility, adjustments were necessary to align the sportsbook’s operations with actual guest preferences and patterns.
As a result, the sportsbook has scaled back its operating hours to 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. each day, which has led to minor staffing changes. Importantly, all affected staff members have been retained, and the sportsbook continues to operate during peak times, especially during significant sporting events, with kiosk betting available 24/7.
Jessica Welman, editor of the Canadian Gaming Business, remarks on the overwhelming preference for online sports gambling over traditional brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. The convenience of placing bets via a smartphone or computer is a significant draw for many, enhancing the accessibility and appeal of online betting.
Welman further noted that the market for online betting in Ontario has expanded consistently each quarter since its legalization, highlighting a robust growth trajectory that underscores the market’s potential.
However, the relationship between online gambling and its impact on physical casino revenues is complex and not well-documented. Sports betting reporter Greg Warren pointed out that most casinos do not specifically track how much of their revenue comes from sports betting as opposed to other gambling activities, which muddles the ability to analyze precise trends.
Yet, experiences from the United States suggest that both in-person and online sportsbooks can experience growth simultaneously, indicating a synergistic relationship rather than a competitive one. According to Warren, the distinct experiences offered by online platforms and physical sportsbooks mean they can coexist and cater to different preferences.
Welman supports this view, suggesting that despite the convenience of online options, there is an enduring appeal for the physical experience of in-person betting. She argues that brick-and-mortar casinos provide a unique atmosphere that can’t be replicated online, serving as a draw for those who prefer the tangible excitement of a live betting environment.
In line with its diverse offerings, Caesars Entertainment also maintains an online gaming app, which complements its physical sportsbook operations. This app is designed to offer users a seamless integration between the convenience of digital betting and the engaging atmosphere of in-person wagering.
While specific details on the app’s impact on the casino’s overall business were not disclosed, it represents an integral part of Caesars’ strategy to bridge the gap between traditional and digital gambling experiences. This dual approach not only caters to a broader range of consumer preferences but also positions Caesars to capitalize on the growing trend of mobile and online betting.
As the landscape of sports betting continues to evolve, the interaction between online and in-person gambling platforms will undoubtedly remain a key area of focus for industry observers and participants alike. By maintaining a strong presence in both arenas, Caesars is well-equipped to adapt to changing consumer habits and technological advancements that have seen real money online casinos cornering many gambling markets worldwide, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the gambling industry.
This strategic integration highlights the potential for more synchronized growth and innovation within the gambling sector, shaping the future of how sports betting is experienced across different platforms.
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