Local Immigration Partnership program coordinator Michelle Cudmore-Armstrong presented yesterday at the Portage Rotary Club luncheon at Canad Inns. She shared what's happening in the city with her work with newcomers, including an ongoing strategic planning session.

Michelle Cudmore-Armstrong"The PLIP, which is the Portage la Prairie Immigration Partnership council, has been in two full days of strategic planning," says Cudmore-Armstrong. "That was in January and February. And now we're in the draft form of doing our strategic plan."

She explains the issues involved in the planning are working toward making the city more accomodating to newcomers. Topics discussed include public transportation, child care provision and affordable housing. They're also trying to integrate indigenous learning into the school systems and provide newcomers with the true story of our indigenous people so they can be aware of our region in a more complete manner.