June 4, 2004 Out There Article

EVER wonder what prevents people from going at each other's throats when a public debate turns nasty? Ever think about how ugly things could have got when the concerned citizens of the Wolseley area were pitted against city fogging crews during the debate over mosquito control in the past few years?

Ever feel that more work should be done to foster harmony in our communities?

The good people at Mediation Services do, and they are celebrating their 25th anniversary with a dinner at the Centro Caboto next Wednesday. The event is also a fundraiser for Mediation Services, which is a non-profit organization that works to promote non-violent conflict resolution in communities (they provided mediation services in the above-mentioned Wolseley mosquito fogging debate), families, and various organizations throughout the city.

Assembly of First Nations Grand Chief Phil Fontaine, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Dennis White Bird, and Winnipeg South Centre MP Anita Neville are among the 150 or so invited to attend; speakers include provincial minister of justice and attorney general Gordon Mackintosh and Mediation Services' program co-ordinator Greg Barrett.

According to Mediation Services' Wendy Bonnie, "This event is not just about Mediation Services but will also serve as an opportunity to display the work of many people in our community who give their energy and service to build peace."

Tickets are $75 and may be had by calling 925-3426.