Issue 33 • sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com • Februrary & March 2014 Joleen Bradley: Lessons Learned
Big Brothers, Big Sisters Go Girls!
By Dayna Lutz My name is Joleen Bradley and I am honoured to be in this section of Around the Block. Over the last year, a lot has changed in my life. I enrolled myself in The Key to Well Being and learned how to deal with my inner critic. I attended Outflow five nights a week and Outflow Church every Wednesday night. I also made a personal commitment to a daily reading from the Bible. Recently, I have been working with WorkLinks at the SJ Learning Exchange. They have helped me overcome obstacles in order to secure a job and I am now working in a job that I adore. One thing that has always kept me going, is my beautiful son. He deserves a strong woman for a mother and now I know for sure that he has one. I can hand down all of the lessons I have learned and seeing the admiration on his face is one of the bonuses that life has given me.
Doreen Gillet, Strong Grandmother By Wendy Barron-Belmore When you meet Ducky for the first time you become instantly attracted to the caring, laughing and happy soul that is in front of you. Since 1932, Saint John has been blessed with having Doreen Gillet as a resident. She tells so many wonderful stories about her life that transfers me into the ‘40s and 50’s here in the city.
By Bliss Roberts “The single, most important goal of the program is to positively shape the lives of young women and girls by helping them build a positive self-image – setting them on a path to reach their full potential in life.” Our Go Girls! mentors are not only role models but also amazing, strong women who show up weekly and tackle the tough issues our girls, aged 10-14, face today. Thank you Leta, Barb, Tina, Jennifer, Cynthia, Julia, Catherine, Claire, Kim, Andrea, Chelsey, Wanda, Tracy, Rachael, and Jasmine for all you do!!
Strong Women Knitters
Asked about her nickname, Pictured above: Ducky, blowing Ducky stated she was playing out candles on her 85 birthday baseball with the boys and when a ball was heading her way they yelled at her to “DUCK”, and she didn’t. She was knocked out cold and has been called Ducky for 70 years. Ducky’s best memory is of her Mom and Dad and her quote of advice to everyone is, “Do what your mother and father tells you?.” Being with Ducky is such a pleasure and she is truly a strong woman.
Coordinator’s Comments Juanita Black, 647-4850, sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com
Welcome to our Strong Women’s issue, number 33 of Around The Block. As you can see from our cover stories, strong women are all ages, work as individuals or in groups and are mentors to many in greater Saint John. Maybe you will recognize some of these women in our stories and pictures, someone younger or older, who has inspired you to be a strong woman in your community and has encouraged others around you. I have had the pleasure to work with many strong women through my work with Around The Block and Vibrant Communities in our priority neighbourhoods as well as with our community partners. Women share their hopes for their future, their children’s future and never give up their dreams. It does not matter what your age is, become a strong woman for yourself. It all starts with you.
By Debbie McLeod Every Wednesday afternoon the women from Stephenson Tower and Charlton Place gather in the Stephenson Tower community room, under the leadership of volunteers Jean Pond and Leslie Estabrooks, to knit. They knit all year long and make items such as scarves, hats, mitts, socks, toe covers, blankets and baby hats. These items are donated to organizations like Joshua Group, Regional Hospital, Romero House mobile bus and First Steps. This is the fourth year the women have been knitting and they find their efforts very rewarding. The group is always looking for donations of yarn and they welcome new knitters to their group! Please call Jean at 634-1594, if you would like more information or would like to make a donation. I am so proud of these strong women who give their time, talent and dedication to such a wonderful cause. Page 1
Chefs!
Introducing Wendy Stephens
By Chez Worden We started out four weeks ago as kitchen rookies. After weeks of cutting, chopping, frying and baking, our skills have improved. Every Monday and Tuesday the kid CHEFS join together to cook wonderful meals to eat at dinner. But, there is no way we could put together meals or cook as well as we do without our wonderful and awesome inPictured above front to the back structors, Wendy Barron and Mary are Tasha Gallant, Chez Worden LeSage. When Tasha, Aliviah and and Aliviah Dalling. I met Wendy and Mary, we were strangers to each other, but now we are all a great big family and I like it that way!
Our First Game
By Gerry Leavitt Our first game of the year at Harbour Station in 2014 had residents and ONE Change coming together. ONE Change and people from the community went to see a Basketball game on Thursday, the Millrats v.s Island Storms. We all had a great time watching them play. It was tied at 104 and we had the last shot of the game. Saint John took the shot and we won the game. Final score being 106 - 104 for the Millrats.
Digital Literacy Centre The ONE Change Digital Literacy Centre will be offering a FREE introduction to basic computer courses.
They may be adjusted according to particular need or interest. • • • •
Feb 5th to Feb 17th Feb 19th to Mar 12th Mar 17th to Mar 31st Apr 2nd to Apr 7th
Word 2010 Excel 2010 (March break) PowerPoint Digital Lifestyles
We are located at 195 Victoria St./Lorne School entrance on Durham. ***Tuesday and Thursday afternoons are available for individualized instruction. For more information call Brenda, Phone: 652-6625
Shamrock Community Garden
Pictured above Rachel working in her garden.
The young boy beside me said this was his first game and he was very excited. His name was Joshua Veinot and I took his picture with Riverrat, the mascot. Thanks to ONE Change for the tickets.
The courses will take place Monday and Wednesday afternoons between 1– 3 pm.
By Scott Crawford ONE Change is happy to welcome Wendy Stephens to our North End family. Wendy assumed the role of Executive Director of the Nick Nicolle Community Centre on October 1 and has begun the hard work of starting a whole new schedule of programs. Wendy has directed Centres all over the Maritime Provinces and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. During the next year, programs will be available for everyone from infants to seniors. She is going to be looking for partnerships with all organizations to make not just the North End but all of Saint John a better, healthier place. If you'd like to help out or just say hello, she can be reached at wendy.stephens@bellaliant.net.
By Cherie Cormier Shamrock Park Community Gardeners would like to wholeheartedly thank everyone involved for working collectively with us to expand our Community Garden's Capacity in 2013. Much support has improved our awareness and skills to encourage Healthy Eating, Food Preparation and Preservation. Together we have planted the seeds for Improved Community Awareness and a network for sustaining efforts to promote the access and availability of healthier foods and lifestyle. If you would like to join us this year in planting and growing, please call 642-1786 to book a garden plot. To see pictures of our work in progress you can view them on our facebook page 'Shamrock Park Community Garden'. Feel free to "Like" our page, drop us a line, and learn about our experiences at Shamrock Park Community Garden. Come on out and lets grow together in 2014.
Coats For Kids Coats for the community from the Knights of Columbus. Pictured left – right; Paul Cottreau, Wendy Barron Belmore and Herb Tozer
PROUD TO BE A SUPPORTER OF Around the Block
North Neighbourhood Contact Wendy Barron-Belmore Phone: 635-2035 E-mail: theonechangeinc@nb.aibn.com
Please support UCT TV BINGO Tuesdays at 6:30 ROGERS CABLE CHANNEL 10 Cards available at most convenience stores
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It’s In Her Genes
By Mary LeSage and Christine Roy Christine’s mother and her siblings attended SJB-KE along with her grandmother's family. They lived in the area of Broad and St. James Streets. Her father still lives up the street on Orange. There is an emotional connection to the community. Christine has been the principal for seven years (minus maternity leave). What she really loves about working in SJB-KE is that the school is a true model of a community school. The school works collaboratively with families and various community partners/agencies to support students academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviourally. “It is important to work and support our families in a non-judgmental way - we want to empower parents. It is important for parents to collaboratively work with the school in a partnership. Working together, we can ensure success for our students.”
Comings And Goings At P.U.L.S.E.
Wow!! What a SPECTACULAR Christmas we had!! We had a lot of firsts in the South End! We had our first ever cookie bake off. A group of 13 kids and adults came together to make over 150 dozen cookies to hand out while Christmas caroling through the South End. We also handed some out to the patrons of the Food Basket along with some apple cider. We had our first ever tree lighting ceremony on the same night as the caroling. Our Wellness Clinics are going strong. Flu shots will be available the third Tuesday of the month. Mark Feb 18 and Mar 18 on your calendars from 1:30 – 4 pm, Sheree from the VON will be on duty. Sgt David Hartley-Brown is available Mon from 8 am-12 pm or by appointment. He can be reached at 648-3700 or by email: david.hartleybrown@saintjohn.ca. Do you have an idea that you want heard? Come visit Mary at the office. We are open Mon 9 am-2 pm, Tue 9 am-1 pm, Wed Closed, Thu 9 am-1 pm and Fri 9 am-2 pm. Follow us on Twitter, LIKE us on Facebook or phone us at 632-6807.
Income Tax Clinics At P.U.L.S.E.
251 Wentworth Street Past year returns can also be done. These clinics are available for: *Single person: $30,000 or *Couple and family: $35,000. These are the following dates at PULSE: March 8 and 22, 11am -1:30 pm. March 12 and 26, 5:30 -7:30 pm. April 5 and 19, 11am - 1:30 pm. April 9 and 23, 5:30 - 7:30 pm.
Strong Women - Hilari MacLeod By Mark Leger Hilari MacLeod has an eye for making the South End a better place to live. A painter and photographer, Hilari has taken part in many projects to beautify the South End. She and her brother Ethan are behind the Graffiti Guys initiative. Last summer they removed graffiti from many buildings in the South End. For their work, Ethan and Hilari were awarded certificates by the Crime Prevention Associates of New Brunswick. For Hilari, it's about more Photo courtesy of Ethan MacLeod than just removing something unsightly. Once the graffiti is removed she paints something more attractive in its place, like the mural beside Veronica's Music, Books and Novelties on Germain St. Hilari is currently looking at other spots in the South End to paint murals. In addition to her graffiti removal and mural work, Hilari has painted the tables in Rainbow Park with bright colours, and created the "gardening man" logo on the sign for the community garden. She is a P.U.L.S.E. board member who helps out at community cleanups and events in the neighbourhood. She is also a science student at UNBSJ and president of the university chapter of Best Buddies, an organization that helps create friendships between people with and without intellectual disabilities.
Food Purchase
Be a part of the Food Purchasing Club at P.U.L.S.E. The cost is only $10 for one bag or $20 for two bags. Please bring your reusable bag(s) with your name on it when you pay for your order. Do you feel like doing a pay it forward good deed for the month? You can also buy and order a bag for someone else.
Gerry Lowe
South Neighbourhood Contact
Councillor Ward 3.
I am your Councillor for Ward 3. Parts of the Lower West Side, Lower South End, and parts of the East and a bit of the North by the Rockland Road area. Each area has its own particular needs, hopes and potential for growth. I will work closely with residents in each neighbourhood to promote the well-being of all. Together we can build a safe, supportive and sustainable community. I can be reached by phone at 721-5690 and by email at Gerry.Lowe@saintjohn. ca.
Mary LeSage Phone: 632-6807 E-mail: pulseinc@bellaliant.com
Carl Killen
MLA Saint John Harbour 642-9774 • 74 Germain St. office@killenmla.ca Constituency Office: Mon 9:30 – 4:30, Tues/Wed 10:00 – 3:00, Thursday 4:00 – 8:00 pm Carleton Community Center: Thursday 11:00 – 3:00 pm
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Introducing CST Dee Cole
Strong Women In Crescent Valley
My name is CST Dee Cole and I have been with the Saint John Police Force for approximately 14 years. In that time I have worked in patrol services, major crime unit, court services and property control.
By Anne Driscoll The Crescent Valley stakeholders committee is a group of residents, volunteers and professionals who live and/or work in Crescent Valley. At each meeting the committee recognizes a worthy recipient (or two or three) who freely offers his or her time to make the community a better neighbourhood. Mother and daughter, Pictured above left to right: Catherine Cathy and Catherine SaSabean and her mother, Cathy Sabean bean were recognized (Photo by Anne Driscoll) recently for helping out at many Crescent Valley events. We can always count on Team Sabean!
This will be my second term as a community police officer and I look forward to meeting and working with residents and other stakeholders in the Crescent Valley neighbourhood. You can reach me at 674-4295.
Rhythm And Brew In Crescent Valley
Cathy and Catherine are great examples of strong women, just two of the many strong women of Crescent Valley. They have overcome personal obstacles and have made positive changes to improve their lives. Stepping outside their comfort zones, such as participating in the CV Walking Club where they have competed in several marathons, they are always open to new experiences and are role models for the community.
Family Literacy Day In Crescent Valley Pictured above left to right: Wanda Roche, Kathy Hanna, Catherine Sabean, Darlene Verner, and Steve Zaat (Photo by Anne Driscoll) By Anne Driscoll Are you looking for a fun way to improve your health? Did you know joining a singing group can help boost mental health and well-being? Check out Rhythm and Brew with the Crescent Valley Resource Centre (CVRC) singing group. Under the direction of Steve Zaat, the group meets every second Mon (Feb 3 & 17; Mar 3 & 17) 7:30-8:30 pm at CVRC, 130 MacLaren Blvd. We provide the brew (freshly brewed coffee and tea) and you provide the rhythm. This is a fun group for anyone who loves to sing (no experience needed), anyone who loves music, or just wants to get out to meet friends and share a fun evening. Open to older teens and adults. If you have questions call 693-8513. We hope you'll join us.
News From Your CVCTA The monthly meeting of the Crescent Valley Community Tenants Assoc., will be held on Tue Feb 24, 7 pm at 55 MacLaren. Childcare will be provided. • CVCTA Memberships - Your 2014 membership is available for $4. per household until April 1, then $5. • Valentine Day Tea - Will be held on Feb 14, from 1 - 3pm. Please call to register, all welcome. Come and join us for some tea, sweets and door prizes.
Pictured above left to right winners of door prizes: Lesa MacLaren, Eva Feddery, Trenton Burley, Ryan Chappel and Sandra Chappel. (Photo by Anne Driscoll) By Anne Driscoll A Family Literacy Day celebration was held in Crescent Valley on Jan 23. There was fun for all, with folks playing board games and cards, colouring and making crafts. Participants snacked on pizza and a special Family Literacy Day cake! It was great to see so many take part in this event. This event was sponsored by the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick and supported by: NB Dept. of Social Development, the Crescent Valley Community Tenants’ Association and the Crescent Valley Resource Centre.
Hon. Trevor A. Holder MLA Saint John-Portland Constituency Office 229 Churchill Boulevard Telephone: (506) 657-2335 Email: trevor.holder@gnb.ca
Crescent Valley Neighbourhood Contact Anne Driscoll: 693-8513 CVRC.driscoll@gmail.com
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St. Patrick’s Joins SKIP Program
Michael Wilson, Principal At St.Pat’s Receives National Award By Krista Turnbull, Community School Coordinator, St. Patrick’s School We are very proud to announce that our principal, Michael Wilson has been awarded Canada’s Outstanding Principal’s Award from the Learning Partnership of Canada!! Mike is one of only two New Brunswick principals to receive this prestigious award for 2014. Mike will have the opportunity to join other award recipients at University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management for a week in February, as well as celebrating his achievements with his family at a gala dinner. Mike has dedicated the past eight years of his career to making a huge difference in the lives of not only the students at St. Patrick’s School but also that of their families. The status quo has never been good enough for Mike and he continues to be open to new and exciting opportunities for our students to grow as individuals. www.thelearningpartnership.ca/what-we-do/educator-program-andexecutive-leadership/canadas-outstanding-principals/award-recipients
Westside Wellness Updates • • • • • • •
Specimen Collection: Tue and Wed 7:30 am to 2:30 pm by appointment only, please call 648-6681 press #3 Food Bank: Tue and Fri 1-3 pm Monthly Foot Care Clinic: every third Wed, by appointment, 6572273. Are you over 50 and want to be more ACTIVE? Join our classes: Tue 10 -11 am at Hope Centre, Tues and Fri 10 am, (winter hours) at Market Place Wellness Centre - Free Food Purchase Club: for more information call: West, 674-4335, or St Joseph Community Health Center, 632-5537 Social Development: worker on site to answer questions, Tue afternoons 1 – 3 pm Lending Library: Take a Book, Leave a Book at Market Place Wellness Centre, 674-4335
West Side Adult Learning Program St. Patrick’s School has been home to an evening adult learning program for the past 4 years. Saint John/Kings Adult Learning Inc. facilitates the classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening at the school. Students work at their own pace on individual goals with the guidance of a qualified teacher in the class. You may be interested in the program so you can find a better job, help your kids with home-work, feel better about your skills or prepare to write the GED test. For further information please contact Paula Ross, Regional Manager at 333-5480 or paula.ross.sjkal@gmail.com
By Krista Turnbull, Community School Coordinator, St. Patrick’s School In December, some grade 2 students made a visit to see some seniors at Brunswick Drive. They were visiting as part of a new program St. Patrick’s School has begun, joining three other Saint John schools in the SKIP program (Seniors and Kids Intergenerational Program). The program is aimed at bridging the age gap between children and seniors and engaging them in games, reading and conversation, to the benefit of both. For this festive visit, the children sang songs, accompanied by their teacher, Mrs. Griffin and then had an opportunity to decorate some cookies with the residents and they enjoyed hot chocolate. Special thanks to Alberta Stanton and Debbie MacLeod for working with Mrs. Turnbull, our community schools coordinator to make this program possible. We visit again in February and are excited to have a game of Bingo with our new friends.
Strong Women - Strong PALS At St. Patrick’s By Krista Turnbull, Community School Coordinator, St. Patrick’s School Every morning I am joined by some amazing women who assist with the breakfast program at St. Patrick’s School. Most of these ladies have been coming long before I even started at St. Pat’s. It is very rare for them to miss a morning and many comment that it starts their day off in the very best way possible. Most of the wonderful ladies are now retired but they still venture out early in the morning, in the dark most days and often cold, to help me make breakfast but more importantly, to create lovely friendships with our students. There are Smiles all around the breakfast room each morning and it’s not uncommon for singing and dancing to take place We start the day off in a great way and it’s because these ladies are so dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our students. We would all like to thank Gwen, Lois, Wanda, Karen, Shirley and Debbie for being the strong women they are to us every week. We are lucky to have many other strong women who volunteer at St. Pat’s … we are truly blessed.
West Neighbourhood Contact Jill Roberts: 632-5552 Jill.Roberts@HorizonNB.ca ●
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” - Maya Angelou
●
“The question isn’t who’s going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” - Ayn Rand
Hon. Dorothy Shephard MLA Saint John Lancaster Saint John Lancaster Constituency Office 649 Manawagonish Road Saint John, NB E2M 3W4
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Tel: (506) 643-2900 Fax: (506) 658-9885 Dorothy.Shephard@gnb.ca www.gnb.ca
Vivian Scott
Role Model Community Support TheAnd Salvation Army Leader
By Shelly McReady, Community Ministries Coordinator, Salvation Army Saint John When I think of strong women, Vivian Scott comes to mind. She is strong in faith, character and perseverance. She is always willing to give a helping hand. She has assisted me many times with everything from serving in our Café, to children's programs to handing out turkeys at Christmas.
Photo courtesy of Donna McKee By Debbie McLeod When I think of strong women, I think of women who have overcome barriers and have made a positive impact on their community. Brittnee Shonaman is a role model in her community. She completed high school with honours and received scholarships and awards at her graduation ceremony in June. Despite many barriers such as poverty, and living in a priority neighbourhood, Brittnee turned her life around in grade 11 with the help of devouted teachers from St. Malachy’s High School and with the support of her family. Brittnee now attends UNBSJ and has applied to St. Thomas University in Fredericton to follow her dream of becoming a social worker. Brittnee and her family are wonderful volunteers in their community and are always first in line to help get projects started. Brittnee is a true role model for the young women of Courtenay Bay.
Updates: Waterloo Village Association The Waterloo Village Association meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 148 Waterloo Street (Coverdale Centre for Women) from 12pm– 1pm. and continues to focus on neighbourhood priorities such as: safety, beautification, and engaging residents to become involved in their community. The Fundraising Committee has been raising monies through cake raffles and bake sales. On Saturday, April 19, from 10am. - 2pm, the association will be at Prince Edward Square mall with baked items to continue raising monies that will be used towards purchasing a new sign and beautifying the By the Grace of God Garden on Richmond Street. To date, the committee has raised $434.00. A Learn & Go project is also continuing to work on getting a fence and new benches around the garden for the spring of 2014.
Her gentle spirit is refreshing in a day and age when there is so much loud pushiness. She has overcome many personal obstacles and sorrows to become the person she is today. She is truly an inspiration.
Introducing CST Patti Pittman My name is Patti Pittman. I've been a police officer with Saint John Police Force since 2000.
I've worked with the Rothesay Regional Police, as well as,the Bathurst City Police prior to coming to Saint John. I have worked my entire patrol career serving the residents of the North End. I've worked in the Forensic Identification Unit for a short period of time as well as Court Services. I was also seconded to the Correctional Services of Canada for a four year term working as the Community Corrections Liaison Officer for PEI and New Brunswick. I am looking forward to working as a Community Service Officer and serving the Waterloo Village area. Constable. Patti Pittman 648-4258
Strong Women Women are strong, Women are smart, Women can admit when they are wrong. Women are mothers, Women help others, Women are achievers, Women are believers, Women WILL stay STRONG!!
The association will be starting to plan for 2014 and will be identifying new priorities and initiatives for the neighborhood.If you are interested in being involved in this process please contact Penni Eisenhauer at commorg.penni@gmail.com or Donna McKee at 696-0196.
Rodney Weston
Village Neighbourhood Contact
MP/député - Saint John
Penni Eisenhauer 343-5382 commorg.penni@gmail.com
T 506 657-2500 email: westor1@parl.gc.ca 90 King Street, Saint John, NB
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SJB/KE Girls Club
Strong Women Volunteers
Pictured above left to right: Tammy Kingston, Brooklyn, Maddie, Megan and Emily. Absent from photo: Brooke, Autumn, Tori and Summer. Pictured above left to right: Heather Armsworthy, Beth Ketch, Pam O’Brien. (photo courtesy of Photography Flewwelling) By Julie Pugsley, Community Schools Coordinator, St. John the Baptist - King Edward School Our school is lucky to have many strong women volunteers, including some from Irving Oil. They help with our after-school tutoring program, our lunch program and other numerous special events throughout the year. This photo is of three of our wonderful volunteers taken at our annual Christmas Breakfast, which is hosted by Irving Oil. At this breakfast, the Sea Dogs visited and Santa himself gave out gifts for the kids! These volunteers are wonderful role models for our students and we’re so thankful for the contributions they and Irving Oil make to our school.
Lorne School Has A NEWS Team
By Denise Long, Community School/PALS Coordinator for Lorne Middle School and St. John the Baptist King Edward School Lorne’s students and staff have been working hard on putting together a NEWS TEAM to bring their morning announcements to life. This is a wonderful enrichment opportunity for these students. Our students are learning skills such as public speaking, writing, reading a script, running a video camera, taping, and editing Daily News. Morning News is played in each classroom on the smart boards everyday.
By Julie Pugsley, Community Schools Coordinator, St. John the Baptist - King Edward School Girls Club is a club at St. John the Baptist – King Edward School created by Tammy Kingston, our School Intervention Worker, to help girls develop more social skills. This is done by building their self-esteem, creating confidence in their ability to meet new friends and teach them new activities they could use on a daily basis. These girls get together once a week during their lunch and participate in a fun discussion and planned activity, such as karaoke, crafts, games, cooking, etc. By the end of the year, these girls will have developed relationships and skills to help them in the years to come.
Erica Lane - Strong Women
By Susan Tipper, PALS High School Coordinator I had the pleasure of teaching Erica a few years ago when she was a student at Saint John High School. I also hired Erica as the Community Schools Coordinator for the former School District 8, now the Saint John Education Center of the Anglophone South School District. Erica‘s job title is currently the Community Engagement Coordinator for the Anglophone South School District. Although Erica’s responsibilities have changed over the years, there are a few things that have remained constant. These include her bubbly personality, her dedication to the students she serves and her ability to work hand in hand with all types of personalities. Erica is what I would refer to as a genuine person, what you see is what you get. She genuinely cares about her students, colleagues and others. She leads by example and is respected by all. In my opinion, Erica Lane is someone who I think of as a strong woman and an effective leader.
Strong Women At HWSF By Rebecca McCullogh, Community Schools Coordinator, HWSF School When tasked with the job of writing an article about strong women, I found it quite challenging. Not because I couldn’t think of one, but because every day I am fortunate enough to work with women whose strength inspires me and the young girls at Hazen White St. Francis School.
Partnering from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and Beyond
These women selflessly give of themselves, coming to the school when it is difficult, for so many reasons. Life is often challenging, with personal loss, illness and complicated situations. However, there are those that recognize that the children need them and no matter what, they will be there for them. This often means time away from their families, their babies, their work, and a busy life that doesn’t stop when they walk through the school doors. I just want to say we appreciate you and all that you do. Thank you for making HWSF a priority. Page 7
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Partnerships Volunteering Mentoring Role Models Coaching Focus on Literacy Having Fun Tutoring Breakfast/Lunch Programs New Opportunities After School Programs Career Exploration Making a Difference
We ALL have something to offer!
Deborah Fisher fisher.deborah@jdirving.com Susan Tipper tipper.susan@jdirving.com Caitlin Corkum caitlin.corkum@nbed.nb.ca
CMHA Programs
Healthier Hair - Happy Heads
Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick, Saint John Satellite Office is pleased to announce that we are accepting registrations for our spring education programs. • Beginning on Mar 11, we will be hosting Understanding Anxiety & Panic Disorders an eight-week education program designed for individuals diagnosed with generalized anxiety and/or panic disorders. • Also Beginning on Mar 11, we will be hosting Hope & Healing: Coping with the Suicide of a Loved One, a ten-week education program designed for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide.
Pictured above left to right #1: Laurie Flood (St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation) and Joanne Barry (St. Joseph’s Community Health Centre); #2 Kathy Bennett (Academy of Hair Design) is Julie Bubar (Maritime Beauty Supply)
For more information or to register please call 633-1705. These programs are sponsored by MindCare NB. Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick, Saint John Satellite Office is a United Way Member Agency.
The Healthy Hair-Happy Head initiative would like to thank St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation for their $500 donation, as well as; The Academy of Hair Design, Maritime Beauty Supply and Brother’s Beauty Supply for their donations of hair conditioner. Their donations will help provide information on hair care and the treatment of head lice in our neighbourhoods. We invite you to visit a FREE hair conditioner pumping station near you. Two new stations have now been added to our community: Centennial School (10 Constance St) and P.U.L.S.E (251 Wentworth St) Other Locations: Anglin Drive Neighbourhood Tenants Assoc. (Unit #143), Crescent Valley Resource Centre (130 MacLaren Blvd), Hazen White St. Francis School (538 Sandy Point Road), River Cross Mission (211 Main St.), and Smart Choice Variety (157 Metcalf St.). For further information contact Public Health at 643-2005.
Women’s Wellness Centre St. Joseph’s Hospital 9th floor Mon – Fri, 8 am – 4 pm, 632-5454 Services offered: Prenatal Clinic Pap/ STI testing Menopause education Breast health No referrals necessary
1-800 Seniors Information Line
Attention Women Do you feel that you are letting life slip by you? - Do you procrastinate - Underestimate your abilities - Feel stuck and don't know where to start Start by registering for
The Government of New Brunswick now has a toll-free number for seniors, their families and caregivers who are looking for information on government programs and services related to seniors.
The Key to Well Being
The information line provides older adults with a traditional method of speaking one-on-one with qualified, bilingual staff who will assist them in finding their way through the various government departments and ensure they get to the right service provider for further assistance.
And discover that life can be exciting and rewarding
Calls to 1-855-550-0552 are answered Monday to Friday, from 8am. to 5pm. Messages can be left after hours and calls will be returned the following business day.
THE KEY
Department of Healthy and Inclusive Communities
Believe in yourself and make it happen Call today and register for our upcoming course 672-7451
TO WELL- BEING A PERSONAL GROWTH JOURNEY FOR WOMEN
Where Saint Josephs Community Health Centre 116 Coburg Street Childcare and transportation costs are covered by the Dept of Social Development
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BBBS Selected As Finalists!
FEM Leadership Team
GoodLife Kids Foundation announced today that Big Brothers Big Sisters Go Girls! program has been selected as a finalist in their National Win 4 Kids contest. As part of the contest GoodLife Kids Foundation is giving away a total of $100,000 to programs across Canada that are helping kids have a healthier future. The organization that gets the most votes nationally will receive an additional national winner prize of $25,000, along with the first place regional prize of $12,000, for a total of $37,000. How to vote: Online voting takes place on the Win 4 Kids Facebook contest page. Voters can make their selection by logging into their Facebook account and selecting an organization. Voters require a Facebook account to participate and are only allowed to vote once during the contest. Voting Begins February 1 and goes until 11:59 p.m. on February 28 The results: On Saturday, March 1, 2014, all nine finalists will be asked to attend a Spin4Kids event in their community to learn how much they’ll get through Win 4 Kids! Help spread the word and support your local organization: GoodLife Kids Foundation will be profiling all nine organizations on their Facebook pages: www.facebook.com/goodlifekids In addition to voting, you can support your organization by spreading the word in your community: share the Win 4 Kids Facebook page.
By Xinyuan (Wendy) Yuan The Female Empowerment Movement (FEM) is a team composed of 17 to 25 year old women. I am so proud to have become one of them; I have gained friendship as well as leadership expertise. Our team was responsible for raising females’ awareness of sexual assault and the rape culture. We held successful workshops in high schools and also got involved in other related activities, all done with full enthusiasm. At the end of last year, we held an “All-Nighter” which turned out to be an amazing experience. Young women gathered together, not only to obtain knowledge about how to deal with sexual assault, but also to build their confidence and make their spirit stronger. I would say that what FEM has provided for me has been a strength, which will keep me walking, however tough the road is. Pictured above is Xinyuan (Wendy) Yuan Wendy is an active volunteer with the Saint John Multicultural & Newcomers Resource Centre
It’s never too late to reach your fitness goals and our offer is irresistible. Come see for yourself!
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The Future Looks Bright
By Cindy Floyd Over 70 people attended the unveiling of the sign at the new Y facility on Churchill Boulevard. Led by the grade 5 students from Hazen White-St Francis School, the crowd counted down from ten and the children pulled the cover off the sign for the big reveal. The crowd wore colourful Y sunglasses, signifying the bright future for the Y and the community. Construction will start in the spring.
SJHS Selected For Nike High School Grand Prix
By Melissa Clemance, Senior Communications Specialist, TrojanOne The track and field team from Saint John High School has been selected to represent New Brunswick in the 2014 Nike High School Grand Prix - the first Canadian track and field invitational for high school students, now in its third year. The SJHS team will be making the trip to Toronto, lacing up their spikes and getting ready to test their skill against athletes from all 13 provinces and territories. The team is currently fundraising and will be holding events leading up to the invitational to celebrate and fund their trip. The Nike High School Grand Prix will be held the weekend of May 8 -11. For more information you can also visit: www.highschoolgrandprix.ca melissa.clemance@trojanone.com
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Strong Leader, Strong Woman
A Reflection On Change
By Ariel Arthurs To me, being a leader in my community means a variety of things. I am a leader when it comes to playing sports. I am a softball catcher. This allows me to see more on the field than anyone else and communicate to my team some constructive critism and helpful hints. In my community, I am a leader by setting examples. I am often helping the younger children at the Boys and Girls Club and trying to encourage my peers to do better things.
By Margot Ringuette If you asked me sixteen years ago to describe what my life was like raising a baby as a low income, single mother in the South End of Saint John, I would have used words like bleak, depressing, isolating and fearful. Looking back, I realize I had more opportunities over the years than most of the other single parents I met in my neighborhood. I was blessed with finding my job at the YMCA, which provided a safe and caring haven for my daughter. I stayed with the Y for 21 years and enjoyed supporting other families in the same manner my family received support. I was empowered to break out of poverty because the Y was willing to see that what I needed was a hand up and not a hand out. I was thrilled when I was offered the opportunity to return to the South End as the Director of the new Early Learning Centre (ELC). It felt like I was coming home.As I continue my journey, my hope for the ELC is that each child will always feel proud of their neighborhood and learn how they each contribute to making a difference in their future.
Auric Butterfly By Stephanie Adams
Just fall away from sensation Fly from temptation Collapse into infinite vibrations Through your heart Your mind, your spiritual evaluation Calming your being To insightful seeing See yourself as a butterfly Shedding stardust as it reaches light Flying higher up in the sky Acceleration, ascension, not even a speck of fright As meditation sinks in You lose control of the energy within Soar to the heavens, your root, your light Feel the powers obtained beyond sight.
Another community involvement project I partake in is The Tim Horton’s Leadership Program.This program has helped me realize my leadership potential by showing me how I can be a better leader and how to utilize my strengths and weaknesses. These actions, along with many other are the reasons, is why I believe I am a leader in my community.
Suzanne Louverture Some Haitian History By Guy Verna Suzanne Louverture était une agricultrice de talent. Lorsque son mari devint un personnage public, Suzanne fit le choix de ne point participer à ses engagements. Elle continua à s'occuper de son jardin où elle cultivait le café de ses propres mains,en compagnie d'autres femmes attachées à son service, prouvant ainsi qu'elle n'oubliait pas que l'agriculture à laquelle ils se livraient en commun, elle et son époux, au temps de leur esclavage,leur avait permis de vivre non seulement dans l’abondance mais de faire des épargnes et surtout de partager avec les plus misérables les fruits de leurs travaux. Après la capture du général Toussaint Louverture pris dans un guet-apens posé par l'infâme Brunet, Suzanne fut prise en otage par une escorte puis déportée en France. Napoléon avait ordonné à ses bourreaux de ne point tenter de torturer Toussaint car il ne parlerait jamais, mais de tout faire subir à Suzanne jusqu'à ce qu'elle ait tout avoué.". (Guy Verna is the contributor for this article. He is an employee and volunteer with the Saint John Multicultural & Newcomers Resource Centre.)
Proud Supporter Of Saint John Community Newspaper Around The Block Page 11
United Way Thanks 3 Strong Women
Pictured above Top - Angie Gillcrist, Left - Natalie Robart, RightStephanie Murphy By Wendy MacDermott Our United Way serves the residents of Saint John and surrounding areas. But we are only able to do so with the help of many wonderful volunteers. We would like to thank three women in particular who together helped us raise over $125,000, this last year. Natalie Robart works with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and has such a friendly disposition that we all smile when she stops into the office, whether or not she is carrying a heavy bag of coins. Stephanie Murphy works at Point Lepreau and is a force to be reckoned with. She has been helping the United Way for years with her passion and enthusiasm. Angie Gillcrist works with TD Insurance and has fundraising for the United Way down to a science. Each of these women also motivates and works with a team of volunteers within their workplaces. On behalf of the thousands of lives you touch, Angie, Stephanie, and Natalie, THANK YOU!
My Mom Is A Strong Woman
By Lexy Auburn A strong woman has had her share of experiences, which she puts to good use. She is kind, even when no kindness is shown to her. A strong woman is willing to put herself out there and is not worried what others will think of her. She works hard and puts others’ needs before her own. My female role model is my mother. She is a nice and very caring person, who loves me unconditionally. She has a strong and wonderful spirit that is like no other. My mother is the strongest woman I know!
SJ Community Loan Fund: International Women’s Day By Melanie Vautour The Saint John Community Loan Fund is pleased to host the 2nd Annual “Pathways to Empowerment” event on International Women’s Day, taking place at the Delta Brunswick on Friday, March 7, 2014. This full day event will feature award winning business owner Paula Morand as a guest speaker; as well, participants can choose from six amazing workshops. Learn more about yourself and your own strengths; discover new skills, and, be part of this special day to celebrate each other and the strength we have as individuals and as a gr oup! Check it out – http://www.pathwaystoempowerment.info For more information, contact Erin Gallagher at 506-652-5601 or email excel@loanfund.ca
Quotes: What Are Strong Women? Rachael Grant, Project Coordinator - Engaging Girls and Young Women in Leadership Roles. Saint John Volunteer Centre When I first took on the role of project coordinator for Engaging Girls and Young Women in Leadership Roles, I knew that I, myself, would need to be an example of a strong female leader. But over the past year, my definition of what that means has changed. I have learned an incredible amount from the women in my advisory committee and the speakers and mentors that I have met throughout the project. I have also learned a great deal from my participants. I have watched them grow in confidence, expand their leadership skills and hone their effective communication styles. I want to pass on some of the beautiful lessons I have gained from my participants. Shelley: Nothing can define us except what we choose. Norah: A woman who follows through on her word will always prevail. Wendy: There is no shame in asking questions. Sarah: Professionalism in the face of cattiness is the definition of class. Ashley: Leading has more to do with listening than speaking. Chloe: Kindness is more powerful than any command. Caley: Being aware of your weaknesses is an incredible strength. Justine: Use the tools at your disposal to get the job done. And laugh. Tabitha: Speak to the shyest person in the room; they may not speak up but they listen. Samantha: Perseverance is an invaluable skill. Shantel: Above all else, be yourself. I am sure that I will learn more from each of these strong young women before the end of the project. I continue to ensure that they have learned from the mentors, speakers, advisory committee members and their dedicated project coordinator. To my girls: thank you for helping me redefine strength.
Around The Block Team (Issue 33) “Excellence in Electricity Delivery”
Old North End: Wendy Barron-Belmore. Lower South End: Mary LeSage. Waterloo-Village: Penni Eisenhauer.
Top 5 Energy Saving Tips:
Crescent Valley: Anne Driscoll.
1. Use Energy Efficient Lighting (CFL’s & LED’s)
Lower West Side: Jill Roberts, Patti Kelly, Krista Turnbull.
2. Wash clothes in cold water and hang to dry
4. Turn down the heat at night and when away
Proof readers: Jenny O’Connell, Melanie Hientz Mary Collier Fleet, Mark Driscoll, Belinda Kumar, Cindy Bishop, Anna O’Hara, Rona Howald and Dayna Lutes.
5. Make sure your home is properly insulated
Layout and Design: Chris Hopkins, and Juanita Black.
3. Purchase Energy Star appliances
www.sjenergy.com
Ad Design: Chris Hopkins.
Environmental Commitment
Community members: Carl Tricky, Lyn King, Amanda Maxwell,
ISO 14001 CERTIFIED
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