Issue 44 December 2015/January 2016
• sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com •
Let’s Celebrate With Tracy Friars And Family And Friends
TRC Christmas Traditions
v Staff and youth competng in the TRC Annual Reindeer Games (photo courtesy Letti Eastood) By Letti Eastwood We are starting to get into the Christmas spirit here at Teen Resource Centre (TRC). It is always a fun-filled time of get-togethers and merry making for our youth, volunteers and staff. Each year we love volunteering at events like the Christmas parade and community suppers, but our oldest and most beloved tradition has to be our annual Christmas dinner and reindeer games. TRCers from past present and future (in the form of children and younger siblings) gather for a night of good food, fun-filled games and great company. This year will be sure to be as much fun and full of surprises as we will many new faces around the tables. We look forward to creating many happy holiday memories and hope you do as well. From the TRC family to yours, we wish you a warm, happy and safe holiday season.
Coordinator’s Comments Juanita Black, 647-4850, sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com
Welcome to issue 44 of Around the Block, our Holiday Traditions issue. In this issue you will read how the diversity of newcomer citizens across this city celebrate and share their own countries’ traditions with us in Saint John and the traditions from our communities that let us all celebrate that we are thankful.
Back row top to Bottom: Barb Walker, Heather Stilwell, Jane Dalton. Front; Bottom to Top: Darlene Friars, Betty Vincent, Tracy Friars ,Lynn MacDonald and Wendy Youden (Photo courtesy Kevin Coggin) By Debbie McLeod On Monday, November 23rd., the Imperial Theatre opened the curtain to “How Great Thou Art” and that set the stage for an evening of heartfelt entertainment from the Friar’s sisters, family and friends. Monday evening was the 12th annual Celebrate event! This year the Neighbourhood Action Group - a group of residents and partners from the five Priority Neighbourhoods, is this year’s recipient. How fortunate are we that the positive work being done in the neighbourhoods is being recognized and supported! The proceeds from the concert will ensure positive changes will continue to happen for the children and families in our communities. Thank You: Tracy, Heather, Darlene, Lynn , Wendy and friends for believing in us!
I am very fortunate to work with great staff members, mentors, and volunteers in our five priority neighbourhoods. They, along with the youth and non - profit agencies work together to bring positive programs to the residents of each community and I am thankful for all of them. There is a new group in town called The Neighbourhood Action Group (N.A.G.). This year, they were identified as the recipients of the proceeds from the Tracy Friars and Family and Friends concert held on November 23rd. This Friars Family tradition has brought attention and a financial boost to many groups across the city over the years and this year’s recipients are no different. To sit in the Imperial Theatre and be a part of such a powerful night was amazing. This funding will provide programs that will enhance our communities and will allow exciting programs to continue. Thank you to the Friars Family for believing in the five priority neighbourhoods.
The 100 person choir and band for the Friars concert (Photo courtesy Anne Driscoll)
Proud Sponsors of Around The Block
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O.N.E. Change In Santa Clause Parade
Youth Spotlight, Molly
(Photo Courtesy of Nick Nicole Community Centre) By Christa Petts Molly started coming to the Nick Nicolle Centre last summer. She is polite, friendly, and likes to be involved in everything that is offered at the centre. Soccer is her favourite activity to play in gym. She has been cooking up a storm in the Master Chef program and her favourite thing they have made so far is mac and cheese. Molly’s favourite subject at school is math. One of her family’s holiday traditions is eating supper and spending time at her Papa’s house on Christmas Day.
By Nick Shepard This year ten youth from the Nick Nicolle Centre took part in the Saint John Santa Claus Parade. Everyone had fun walking the parade route, waving and smiling the whole way. It was a great way to show off our new ONE Change banner. After the parade, the youth warmed up with some hot chocolate and snacks at the centre. Thank you to Kennedy and Leeann for making this event. We hope to make it a new holiday tradition.
ABC Preschool Programs
By Alison Newton The ABC Jesus Loves Me Preschool Program takes place at the Nick Nicolle Centre Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00a.m .– 12:00p.m. Participants shared their holiday traditions: “On Christmas Eve we open one gift and watch a Christmas movie and eat Christmas treats” - Zooey “We open one gift on Christmas Eve night” - Joshua “Going to visit my grandparents and Grampie reading Twas the Night before Christmas”- Gloria “We open one present and watch a movie together before bed” Neveah “New pajamas Christmas Eve, watch a Christmas movie, read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” and “How the Grinch stole Christmas” before bedtime” - Cassidy.
NNCC Holiday Events
By Alison Newton This year ONE Change continued with our holiday tradition of our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday November 27th at Victoria Square Park. Thank you to MLA Trevor Holder for providing us with another beautiful tree! We have another exciting and special North End Community Christmas Party planned for Saturday, December 12th from 2p.m.-4p.m. at the Nick Nicolle Community Centre. Children 16 years old and younger living in the North End will receive a special gift from Santa Claus. Our Christmas Party would not be possible without the generous support of many individuals and organizations. Thank you for helping make this such a success!
RiverCross Church would like to wish the people living in Saint John’s priority neighbourhoods God’s joy and blessing during this Christmas season. We are proud to call each one of you our neighbour and our friend!
Literacy Events
By Alison Newton The Nick Nicolle Community Centre is partnering with Crescent Valley Resource Centre to host four literacy events in 2016. Our kickoff event will be held at both locations on Family Literacy Day. Families are welcome to attend at Crescent Valley Resource Centre on Wed, Jan 27th from 4:30p.m.-6p.m. and at the Nick Nicolle Centre from 6p.m. -7:30p.m. There will be fun activities and a snack for the whole family to enjoy together. We hope to see you there!
www.rivercrosschurch.ca
North Neighbourhood Contact Nick Shepard Nick Nicolle Community Centre nickshepard.nncc@gmail.com 658-2980 Page 2
Holidays On The Hardware
Christmas In Indonesia
The second part of the season starts on Jan 4, 2016 at the community centre with practices Mon and Fri, grades 4-6 from 6 – 7:15 pm and grades 6-8 from 7:30-9 pm. New players are always welcome. Drop by the center or call 633-5115 for more information.
Comings And Going At PULSE
By Gino Arseneault, South End Community Centre. The Saint John Rising Stars Youth Basketball Club at the South End Community Centre is coming to a busy season. The grade 4-6 team will visit Saint John High in December to watch a game and scrimmage at halftime. They will host a visiting team from Lancaster the following weekend. SJHS JV boys are coming again to practice with both our younger and older (grade 6-8) teams. Finally, both teams plan to close out the year at the annual Kean Tournament.
By Sarna A When I was asked to write something about holiday traditions in my country I wasn’t sure where to start. Truth be told, we don’t really have any differences in our Christmas traditions, the malls are decorated with all kinds of Christmas symbols, maybe even more so than malls here. Songs are playing and Santa is around for photos with children. Then I got to thinking, maybe the reason we don’t have any specific traditions is because we recognize all religions in my predominately Muslim country. We celebrate Christmas and Easter, also Hindu holidays such as the Hindu New Year and Deepavali. Let’s not exclude Waisak day (Buddha’s Anniversary) and Chinese new year. We of course celebrate the Muslim holidays IdulFitri, IdulAdha and more. I like to believe that the Indonesian people respect all of them or maybe we simply like having days off from work.
Community Breakfast
South End Lions Club Sunday Breakfasts are offered on the first Sunday of the month at St. John the Baptist/King Edward School (223 St James Street door). Please join us Jan 3rd and Febr 7th for a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, toast, sausage, bacon, ham, pancakes, and baked beans. Finish with juice, tea or coffee. Cost is $8 for adults, $4 for children, and family of 4 is $20. Time is from 9 am -1 pm. The South End Lions Club is committed to being part of and helping the community. All funds raised stay in the south end.
Be a part of the Food Purchasing Club at P.U.L.S.E. The cost? 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. Perhaps you want to do a ‘Pay it Forward” deed for the month and buy an order for someone else. A special thank you to the 37th Service Battalion for providing us with our tent for the Safe Halloween BBQ. We had an AMAZING time with the ghouls and goblins of the south end. Special thanks to St. Mac’s Booster club for raising and donating $75 towards the BBQ. Great job!! Do you have an idea that you want heard? Come visit me at the office. We are open Mon 9 am – 2 pm, Tue 9 am -12 pm, Wed Closed, Thu 9 am -12 pm., Fri 9 am -2 pm. Follow us on Twitter LIKE us on Face Book. Call me at 632-6807. If you have a community policing issue feel free to call Sgt David Hartley-Brown at 648-3700.
3rd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
WHEN: WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 16 @ 6PM WHERE: RAINBOW PARK Join us for Christmas caroling through the neighbourhood followed by light refreshments @ Mahogany Manor @ 220 Germain Street.
South Neighbourhood Contact Mary LeSage Phone: 632-6807 E-mail: pulseinc@bellaliant.com 251Wentworth Street
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Christmas Tradition For CFUW SJ
Years Of Dreaming Become Reality
(Photo courtesy Ann Barrett )
(All Photo’s of PotashCorp Play Park courtesy Lori Lambert and Anne Driscoll )
By Ann Barrett Brittany Skelding from the Crescent Valley Resource Centre (CVRC) received donations from the Saint John Club of CFUW. They included hats, mitts, scarves, pajamas, socks, even winter jackets, as well as monetary donations. This is the sixth year CFUW SJ has made it their Christmas tradition. CFUW is a National & International organization that believes women working together can ensure that all girls and women can have equal opportunities and access to quality education within a peaceful and secure environment where their human rights are respected. All women are eligible to join. For more information visit www.cfuw.org
QLNB Christmas Tradition By Cheryl Brown We, the Quality Learning New Brunswick members, believe it is important for children to have books, so one of our favourite things to do as an organization is give them away! Just about every year, for almost fifteen years now, we have ensured that children attending the Crescent Valley Community Tenant’s Association Christmas Party receive a new book from Santa. Children are often excited to receive their book and some insist on reading them right away! We encourage all of you to join in on this fun, and consider making giving books to the children in your lives one of your a Christmas traditions.
By Ann Barrett On Nov16th a large crowd of children and parents, CV residents, government officials, funders and partners gathered to celebrate the official opening of the newly named “PotashCorp Playpark.” It is phase 2 of the CV Park project which saw phase 1, the Splash Pad, completed in 2011. The Board of CVRC and Crescent Valley residents kept the completion of the park as one of their priorities knowing it would enable the large number of children in the area to have a safe place to play. It will also be a destination location for the YMCA and Somerset daycares, summer day camps, and children and families from surrounding communities. In the spring more improvements will be added including benches, picnic tables, and landscaping. We thank all levels of government, PotashCorp, The Greater SJ Community Foundation, Grant Thornton, TELUS, and many others who provided funding.
The Wizard Of OZ
By Krista Creamer & Family My family and I had the great joy of being able to attend a performance of the Wizard of Oz at the Imperial Theater on Saturday, November 14th. There were so many amazing and talented performers in the show who all did an amazing job bringing Dorothy and all her family and friends to life on stage. My daughters all loved the whole show but their favourite was Scarecrow. They thought he was hilarious. We all had lots of laughs that day and many memories that will last us the rest of our lives.
Crescent Valley Neighbourhood Contact
Trevor A. Holder MLA Portland - Simonds Constituency Office 229 Churchill Boulevard Telephone: (506) 657-2335 Email: trevor.holder@gnb.ca
Anne Driscoll: 693-8513 email: CVRC.driscoll@gmail.com 130 MacLaren Blvd.
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Westside P.A.C.T. Christmas
Carelton Community Garden First Annual Pumpkin Carving
Pictured Left: Tony Mowery with Santa and guest from the 2014 Christmas Party. (photo courtesy Julie Baribault) By Anna James Here at the Westside PACT we have started two traditions. We like to put a float in the Annual Lancaster Christmas Parade, and we do an annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Tilley Square. Last year was our first time in the parade and it was so much fun that we have decided to make it an annual tradition, involving the children and adults from the area. We have had the tree lighting for the last 4 years. Santa is always there to sing Christmas Carols and hand out candy canes. There is also hot chocolate and cookies readily available.
880 Danells Drive Christmas Memories
By Wendy Coughlin During the past six years that I have lived at Danells Dr. I have made some incredible friends and fantastic Christmas memories. These memories include people still with us, and those who no longer share our home. We have shared great Christmas dinners, had tree trimming parties, Christmas Eve Potlucks, and a variety of entertainment. Some of our entertainment has been provided by outside sources but a lot of it we have done ourselves. We have caroled together and entertained each other with shared stories from our past about our own Christmas experiences. We have exchanged gifts, cards, and best wishes to each other in honor of the holiday season. May all my friends and fellow residents have another wonderful Christmas and healthy and prosperous New Year.
By Jill Roberts Mrs. Griffin’s Grade 2 class at St Patrick’s Elementary School recently took part in the “Carleton Community Garden First Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest.” Fourteen students met at the Carleton Community Centre and joined community partners from the Market Place Wellness Centre and Saint John Port for this fun event. Each participant received a ‘pumpkin t-shirt’ from their friends at the port. Special guest judges included Port Saint John President and CEO, Jim Quinn and Mascot Champ. First, second and third place winners were presented with craft supply kits by Mr. Quinn. Special thanks to Krista Turnbull, Community School Coordinator and to community volunteers, Shirley Martin and Lana Leblanc for preparing a lovely hot lunch for all to enjoy. Thanks also to all of the UNBSJ Nursing students who assisted with the carving. We are looking forward to next Halloween and the Second Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest!
Market Place Wellnesss Centre
• Specimen Collection; Mon and Wed, 7:45 am.-3 pm, Walk-in only. Lunch time from 11:35am -12:30pm. • Food Bank; Tue and Fri, 1- 3pm • Smoking Cessation Program; call 674-4335 for an appointment. • Fundy Fog Chasers; meet Thu at 6:30pm and Sat 9am. Runners and walkers welcome. No charge to participate. There is a site on Facebook. • Food Purchase Club; (Clients pays for their bag of fresh produce) 674-4335 for information. • Social Development Case worker; on site Tue 1-3pm, or by appointment. • Monthly Foot care clinic ($35 fee or covered by insurance) 3rd Wed of each month. Appointment needed, 657-2273
• Senior led fitness; program/ Falls Prevention ages 50 and up, “Zoomers,” free. Tue 10am and Fri 11am. Space is limited and registration is required for Fall programs. Please call 674-4307 • Gentle Yoga; Thu at 10am, $6.00 fee applies. •Zumba; (slower pace) Mon and Wed, 10 am, $4.00 fee applies. • Pickle Ball; Mon to Thu 11am. Contact Mike 672-9566. • Community Garden Plots; $15 plus $5 key deposit, first come first serve. • 2 Nurse Practitioners; by appointment only. • Social Worker/Counselling by appointment • Art Class; Tue mornings at 10am. ( Goodwill offering) Dorothy Shephard MLA Saint John Lancaster
West Neighbourhood Contacts
640 Manawagonish Road Saint John, NB E2M 3W5 Constituency Office is located at side of building facing Church
Jill Roberts: 674-4307 Jill.Roberts@HorizonNB.ca 120 Market Place
Tel: (506) 643-2900 Fax: (506) 643-2999 Dorothy.Shephard@gnb.ca www.gnb.ca
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Happy Holidays
Courtenay Bay Christmas Tradition Support The Salvation Army By Carolyn MacLennan I would like to tell you our Christmas traditions for Courtenay Bay Tenant Association. As a community, every year our tenants get involved and decorate their windows. Then we have a draw for three winners. We meet for hot chocolate and cake and have a sing song. Another thing we do is have our annual Kids Christmas Party. Santa comes and gives the children a present. We decorate cookies and have a craft for the children. We also have a magician come and the children really love it. We all look forward to this every year.
By Penni Eisenhauer The Waterloo Village Association (WVA) would like to wish all the residents and community partners who are engaged in the work of a wonderful holiday season. With the support and collaboration from everyone involved, the Waterloo Village this neighbourhood continues being a 'community in action'! If you are interested in being involved in the Waterloo Village neighbourhood, please contact Penni Eisenhauer at 343-5382 or commorg. penni@gmail.com
Remembrance Day Ceremonies
Brunswick Drive Art Show
Pictured front row left to right Brian Mills, Pauline Peters. Back row left to right Carolyn LeBlanc, Rose LeBlanc, Mary Raynes, Linda Harvey and Louise Delahaye. (Photo courtesy Debbie McLeod) By Brian Mills The Brunswick Drive group of seven had an Art Show on Oct 20. The number of people who came to our show was more than unexpected. Everyone had a great time and gave the artists a great review. We also had a drop paint activity which everyone enjoyed.
(Photo courtesy Brian Mills) By Linda Harvey Brunswick Drive celebrated another successful Remembrance Day service. Thanks to all who attended and thanks to the volunteers who put the service together. We laid four wreaths: Brunswick Drive Tenant Association, Courtenay Bay Tenant Association, Fallen Women and one for the Fallen Children. We all watched the video, “Pittance of Time,� written by Terry Kelly. There was not a dry eye in the room! We looked at some war pictures and sang some songs. It was a very special day for everyone.
We wish to thank Kim Cookson for starting us off on a new adventure.
The Knitting Club TO PLAY TO WIN WEEKLY a number, fill out a ticket with your name and number, put one part in the box and keep the other The Knittting Club members (Photo by Brian Mills) By: Linda Harvey The Brunswick Drive knitting club meets every Thursday morning. They enjoy their time together as they make hats, scarves and mittens that they donate back to the community. If you enjoy knitting or would like to learn, come join our group. We also will welcome any donation of yarn. You may contact Brian at 652-7095.
weekly by placing the green label with your number on a toonie(s) and drop it in the gold rush box www.sjbgclub.com (506) 634-2011
Village Neighbourhood Contact
Gerry Lowe 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.
Penni Eisenhauer 343-5382 commorg.penni@gmail.com 116 Coburg Street
I can be reached by phone at 721-5690 and by email at Gerry.Lowe@saintjohn.ca. Page 6
PES In Christmas Parade
HWSF Christmas Concert
Students from Mr Ring’s - K class in 2014 . (photo courtesy Rebecca Doyle) Students from Princes ELizabeth on the Kids on the Go bus. (photo courtesy Denise Long) By Tara Scott and Abby MacGillvray On Saturday, November 21st., a group of students from Princess Elizabeth School (PES) were invited to be a part of the Christmas parade in Uptown Saint John. A Kids on the Go bus was decorated with Christmas lights on the outside and filled with Christmas Spirit on the inside! The students definitely felt this spirit as they ran into old friends and saw really neat floats. The PES bus followed a large group of cheerleaders who kept the energy up around them. Even though we were inside the bus, all nine of us got to wave outside to everyone as we passed by.
Knights Of Columbus Support St Pat’s
By Rebecca Doyle, Community School Coordinator, HWSF School Our music teacher, Mr. Ring, at Hazen White St. Francis School works hard each year to ensure that our students are ready to show off their vocal skills by singing Christmas carols to their families. It’s always a wonderful morning full of friends, family, music, and of course, cookies! The staff joins the whole school on stage at the end of the concert for one final, special song. It’s a great kick-off to the holiday season!
Centennial’s Holiday Tradition By Caitlin Corkum, Community Schools/ PALS Coordinator, Centennial School The holiday season at Centennial School is full of traditions: students give back, spread holiday cheer, party, and eat well! A long standing tradition is giving back to our community. Every December join the Harbour Lights campaign and work hard to add lights to the tree. Our PALS and Community Partners also make sure our students enjoy the holiday season. They support our annual Christmas Bazaar, prepare a delish turkey dinner for our students, and invite us to join their holiday celebrations. Students look forward to the holiday season. They are proud of their support of Harbour Lights campaign and are very appreciative of all the holiday cheer our PALS elves spread. We are excited for the holiday season and would like to wish everyone a very happy and safe holiday.
Left to right,Grand Knight Clarence Allin and Jill Roberts (photo courtesy Patti Kelly) By Patti Kelly St Patrick’s Elementary School, along with community partners, the Market Place Wellness Centre and the Carleton Community Centre, would like to thank the Knights of Columbus Council 6770 for their generous donation to the school’s meal program. Grand Knight, Clarence Allain, recently presented a cheque for over $1200 to Community Health Nurse Jill Roberts. Proceeds are from the monthly community breakfasts that the Knights prepare at the Assumption Centre.
NBCC Give Back To The Youth By Natalie Steeves During the month of October a group of NBCC students volunteered their time at Princess Elizabeth School (PES) .They helped PES attempt to break the Kettle bell world record. The students came back again to help PES elementary students. These kind volunteers helped paint a multiple murals with the K-2 students which you can see from outside the school. Rachelle Fulton, Jill Skerry, Clarrissa and many more students are happy to volunteer anytime. They are currently studying respiratory tec, LPN and Lab Tec at NBCC (New Brunswick Community College). All of PES thanks the NBCC volunteers for all their help
Partnering from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and Beyond • 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
Deborah Fisher fisher.deborah@jdirving.com Susan Tipper tipper.susan@jdirving.com
We ALL have something to offer! Page 7
Breastfeed Anywhere
By Lori Heron, RD, Dietitian, Public Health Public Health, along with the Department of Social Development and The Wellness Movement, launched a new Breastfeed Anywhere campaign in October. Although women have a right to Breastfeed Anywhere, some mothers are asked to “cover up” or move. Changing attitudes about breastfeeding in public will help to make breastfeeding the social norm. Life-sized cut out images of local breastfeeding mothers were displayed in the Saint John area. Members of the public were asked to take selfies with the images and share to social media. Thanks to everyone who helped spread the word! For more information about the Breastfeed Anywhere campaign, call Public Health: Saint John 643-6974.
Cst Jocelyn McIntyre New Location As some of you may already know, I am Cst Jocelyn McIntyre, currently the Old North End’s Community officer. I have recently relocated my office to the Nick Nicolle Center and I encourage you to drop in if you have any questions, comments, need assistance or are looking for advice on a matter. If I am not here, please feel free to leave your number with the amazing staff working at the administration desk.
Food Purchase Contest This is issue 44 of Around the Block and our Food Purchase Club Contest. We are happy to partner with Saint John Energy to offer 2 - $20.00 fresh fruit and produce orders and a turkey for each order donated by Councillor Gerry Lowe. You need to locate, hidden throughout Around the Block, two Saint John Energy logos (not including this notice and the Saint John Energy ad).Send your answer to sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com or call 647-4850. You need to identify the page and location of each hidden logo, only one entry per household. Your name will go into a draw for one of the orders. The contest will end Dec 17, and you will be called if you are a winner with the location of where you can pick up the order. Congratulations to the winners for issue 43, they were Barb Ogden and Maryln Morrell. We will list the winners of this contest on the Around The Block Diva’s - Local Radio Face book page on Thu evening Dec 17.
I am looking forward to continued partnerships, meeting new faces and assisting with positive growth in the neighborhood.
Every day makes a difference.... You make a difference.
Big Brother Big Sisters Holiday Gift Wrapping Campaign
COMMUNITY
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE SAINT JOHN MULTICULTURAL & NEWCOMERS RESOURCE CENTRE
MEALS ON WHEELS
SAINT JOHN INC.
✔ Hot and Frozen Meals Programs Available ✔ Hot Meal Home Delivery Monday-Friday at Noontime ✔ Frozen Meal Program – 30 Varieties Available as well as
selections for all Dietary Needs – Gluten Free, Renal, Minced, etc. ✔ A low cost of $7.00 per meal – some clients may qualify for assistance through the Long Term Care Program or the Department of Veterans Affairs.
SJMNRC WILL CLOSE ON DECEMBER 24TH AT NOON AND WILL RE-OPEN ON JANUARY 4, 2016.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL MEALS ON WHEELS
Want to learn more about The Saint John Multicultural & Newcomers Resource Centre? Visit us at 165 Union Street, 4th floor, Uptown Saint John – or drop us a line at info@sjmnrc.ca / 642-6464.
506-658-1888
www.sjmnrc.ca Page 8
QLNB 2015 Storytents By Cheryl Brown This past summer, Quality Learning New Brunswick (QLNB) set-up Storytents at sites at the Old North End in Victoria Square, at Rainbow Park in the South End, and at Nason Road Playground on the Eastside. Thanks to the Saint John Free Public Library and local partners: P.U.L.S.E., Silver Falls Community Association and the ONE Change/ Nick Nicolle Community Centre. Many children enjoyed access to books, borrowing and the Summer Reading Club in these neighbourhoods. Over the summer, the children who attended recorded reading more than 640 books. Thanks as well to the Province, Library, and Literacy Coalition for funding these tents. Time to start planning for 2016!
Korean Traditions
By Ted (SeongKyu) Cheon Same as other far-east Asian folks, Koreans have a tradition to celebrate the days where dates are duplicated by odd numbers like 1/1: 1st January; 3/3: 3rd March; 5/5: 5th May; 7/7: 7th July; and, 9/9: 9th September. Dan-O is a traditional holiday that falls on the 5th day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar. During this season, all communities pray for a great harvest of the year after seeding. Young men used to get involved in traditional wrestling, called See-Lum, and women wash their hair with the herb named Chang-Po. Unfortunately, the Dan-O season is the most painful period of the year. Many people suffer from a shortage of food. Dan-O is a special day for me since I was born on this day fifty years ago. My mother used to tell me it was a hard time. She had no energy to deliver a baby because she could not ate enough.
Independance Day
By Amelia Garza A celebration in my country is Independence Day. We got our independence on the 16th day of September, 1810. On this day, all the people dress up in the colours green, white and red. At 12:00 o’clock, midnight, we have our cry of Independence. All the people gather in the squares all over the city across Mexico. We say “Viva Mexico,””Viva America,””Viva the Revolution”. We holler out the names of some important people in the Revolution such as Miguel Hidalgo Y Costil, Jose Maria Morelos Y Pavon and many more.
The Key To Well Being
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Believe in yourself and make it happen Call today and register for our upcoming course 672-7451
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Where Saint Josephs Community Health Centre 116 Coburg Street
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Childcare and transportation costs are covered by the Dept of Social Development
#SmallAct Page 9
Seniors Wellness Fair
Introducing Chief John Bates By Brenda McGraw John Bates was appointed as the 25th Chief of the Saint John Police Force in October 2015. He began his policing career with the Brantford Police Service in 1985 where he served for 21 years prior to being appointed as Deputy Chief of the Stratford Police Service in 2006. He served as both Deputy Chief and then as the Chief in Stratford for nine years. The Chief brings a wealth of operational, investigational and administrative experience to his new position. Chief Bates appreciates and values the many established partnerships the Force presently enjoys with various community stakeholders. He looks forward to meeting and working with community leaders and their groups, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens. John and his wife Sandy, are enjoying their transition to our community and are thrilled with the warm Saint John welcome they have received from members of the Force and the community.
Warm Up To Winterfest
By Alberta Stanton Rousselle, Healthy Learners in School Program Come in from the cold and join us for the 5th Annual Warm up to Winterfest on Sunday, Jan 24, 2016, 1 - 4: p.m. at Market Square atrium. This is a free event for people of all ages to visit a variety of wellness/community information booths and have the opportunity to fill out a passport to win a prize, to be entertained by performances on the main stage, have a photo taken with visiting mascots and to enjoy healthy snacks and activities. This will be a fun filled afternoon that is guaranteed to warm you up and get you ready for Winterfest 2016! Please visit www.fundywellness.ca for more information on displays and entertainment lineup.
Seniors enjoying the Wellness Fair (Photo courtesy K Hunter) By Diane O’Connor The 6th annual Senior Wellness Fair & Clinic was held on Nov.6th at Portland United Church with 40 booths and over 150 seniors attending! The fair was opened by Social Development Minister Cathy Rogers, who spent the afternoon viewing the many interesting booths and talking with the seniors. Some new features this year, the Glamour Room and Bob the Wellness Builder with his healthy tips helped to promote the theme, “Change your thoughts, change your life”. Along with the Health Check Room and tasty snacks and door prizes, the afternoon was a great success in encouraging healthy lifestyles and general well-being.
What Do You Know?
What is your connection with Big Brothers Big Sisters? We all have one. Maybe you know someone who has a mentor, is a mentor; maybe you have been a mentor or mentee in the past? Think about the impact of this for a moment. Did you know that 78% of children who have mentors and are brought up on social assistance but will become adults who do not rely on assistance, 80% will graduate and 47% will hold senior positions in their careers. Want to make a difference in your community? Over 100 children are waiting for someone like YOU. Become a mentor today – your community needs you! #SocialImpact Call 635-1145 or email rhoda.welshman@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
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YMCA Provides Access To All
Community Food Mentor Program
“Fun and shared learning in the kitchen�, Community Food Mentors (Photo courtesy Tanya James)
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By Nicole Vair The YMCA of Greater Saint John wants every individual to experience all it has to offer. Whether it is a child attending camp, a senior enjoying a fitness class or a family spending an afternoon in the gymnasium, the Y never wants people to miss out because of financial barriers. The Strong Kids Opportunity Fund allows everyone the opportunity to take part in activities at the Y. If you want to learn more about the simple application process or have questions about YMCA programming, contact 693-YMCA or visit, saintjohnY.com
By Charlotte Ferris In late September, along with 11 other women, I began a program to become a Community Food Mentor. We learned about food safety, food security and healthy eating. These ladies had different backgrounds, ages and careers but all had a common goal: to improve the nutrition of those around us. The most important thing I'm taking away from this program is a sense of community and new relationships with people I wouldn't otherwise have met. Thanks so much to Tanya James, Lori Heron and Natalia Baker, all Public Health Dietitians, for this wonderful opportunity and awesome program.
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Members of the Crescent Valley Community Tenants Association participated and supported the YMCA Strut for Strong Kids on October 24th. This support allows everyone the opportunity to participate at the Y, as all funds go back to the community through Strong Kids. (Photo courtesy Jocelyne Comeau)
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Fu es nd e d yW ellnes war s Champions A
Congratulations to the Wellness Champions and volunteers who contribute to growing The Wellness Movement in the Fundy region! As part of the annual Wellness Champions Celebration held during Wellness Week, the Fundy Wellness Network proudly recognized 14 individuals, 3 workplaces and 4 organizations for going above and beyond in promoting wellness and its different aspects. Special thanks to the volunteers and Nursing students who took part in the planning and hosting of the Seniors Wellness Fair and Clinic. Your involvement made all the difference.
Help grow The Wellness Movement in New Brunswick. Get inspired by more wellness stories, or inspire other New Brunswickers by sharing yours at wellnessNB.ca
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Natale - Christmas In Italian
By Dana LaFlamme When I think about Christmas as a kid, presents aren't the first thing to come to mind, but rather my favourite people gathered around my nonna's kitchen table. Natale, or Christmas in Italian, is a time you share a massive meal, usually lasting several hours, and talk about plans and hopes for the New Year. Natale has always meant family to me. Although I won't be with my family in Ottawa this year, I'll definitely carry on our Christmas traditions in my own Saint John home with my close friends and loved ones. I might even take a swing “ Left to right; Dana, at my nonna's famous pizzelle! BuonNatale! and her sister, Jenna. Dana has been with SJMNRC since Sept 14, in Photo courtesy the role of Administrative / Marketing Assistant. Giulia Belec. (Photo by Nicole Vair)
Traditions de Noël chez les Francophones
Keeping Your Pets Happy & Healthy By Tricia Osborne-Parker The holidays can bring a lot of enjoyment for pets but can also potentially cause harm. • Holly, poinsettias and amaryllis are popular but please keep away from pets who may ingest them. They are toxic. • Everyone loves chocolate during the holidays but it can also be toxic to your pets. • The tree! Make sure it is stable so as to not fall on your pets and choose plastic ornaments instead of glass. Don't let them eat pine needles or drink the tree water. • Ribbons, tinsel and bows attract attention from pets but can cause real problems if they are swallowed. • Gatherings with friends and family are plentiful during the holidays but remember that loud noise and commotion can cause pets to be anxious and fearful. Keep the volume low so they remain calm and happy.
A Different Kind Of Christmas
By Sandrine Selway CAMNASJ travaille avec de nombreux immigrants,que font-il à Noël ? En France Avant Noël, il est dans la tradition d’accrocher une couronne sur la porte d’entrée, d’entamer le calendrier de l’Avent, d’envoyer une lettre au Père Noël et d’acheter une crèche de Noël. Pour le réveillon, on déguste des huîtres, une dinde aux marrons ou du foie gras garni d’oignons confits, et une bûche de Noël. Le matin de Noël, les enfants trouvent leurs cadeaux au pied du sapin.
By Elizabeth Fry Society Saint John women serving time at Nova Institution won’t be home for Christmas.Traditions take on a different feel for those away from family, children and friends.
En République démocratique du Congo. Les fêtes durent toute la semaine de Noël. Sur les sapins ou les eucalyptus, les familles accrochent de petits jouets pour les enfants. Le 24 décembre, on se rend à l'église où l'on célèbre la messe. A l'issue de celle-ci vient une veillée. Les repas, pris en plein air, sont composés de feuilles de manioc, de riz, de poissons fumés et de bananes plantains.
On Christmas Day, women in their houses enjoy cooking a turkey bought by Nova, but they share in purchasing the rest of the meal. Presents? Each woman can pay for a Christmas box for herself and choose items from Sobeys on the list—mostly holiday treats. A piece of chocolate brings a momentary smile.
National Liberation Day
By David The Congo observes National Liberation Day every year on May 17.This is a public holiday, so all offices and most businesses are closed. It pays tribute to the efforts of the Movement for the Liberation of the Congo rebel group who fought the government during the second world war. All the cultures are joined together. Also, people walk around until they reach the Street Parades and cultural shows that are held. Then they block all the other streets so that people can celebrate with much fanfare and enthusiasm. Some of them also share their traditional dances.
Christmas that feels full of love and abundance on the outside does not share that same generosity on the inside. There are celebrations but with restrictions. Only those women with visitors can attend a holiday social.
Around The Block Team (Issue 44)
Old North End: Nick Shepard, Christa Petts and Alison Newton. Lower South End: Mary LeSage. Waterloo-Village: Penni Eisenhauer and Carolyn LeBlanc. Crescent Valley: Anne Driscoll. Lower West Side: Jill Roberts and Anna James. Proof readers: Mark Driscoll, Sandra Phillips, Rona Howald, Anna O’Hara and Barbara Day. Layout and Design: Chris Hopkins, and Juanita Black. Ad Design: Chris Hopkins and Patricia Porter. Community members: Carl Trickey, Lyn King, Lisa Chamberlain, Ryan Locke and Debbie McLeod.
Proud Supporter Of Saint John Community Newspaper Around The Block Page 12